An article in a newspaper once called Killeen a "scruffy little military town." But as media from all around the world head to the area to cover the Hasan trial, businesses plan to paint a different picture of the their city.
From banana pudding to mac 'n cheese, Meredith Viguers, the owner at "Let Us Do the Cooking" in Killeen plans to serve up her best cooking next week.
"We just really want to welcome them into our neck of the woods," said Viguers.
With the start of the Hasan trial next Monday, all eyes will be on Killeen and local businesses will be ready to shine.
"We want to let the media who's going to be in the area know that this is something that we everyday," said Viguers.
ThC chamber of Commerce is preparing the media with welcome kits filled with Killeen facts and a letter from the mayor.
"There will be many reporters living here during the trial and I expect that we will show them the better side of Killeen," said Killeen Mayor Dan Corbin.
President of the Killeen Chamber of Commerce, John Crutchfield says there's always a chance that reporters will explore the city. "At worst, they write something negative, they may not write anything at all but we want to really make sure that if they choose to write anything they've got a positive story to tell if they want to tell it," he said.
And if they do, Viguers plans to show them the best of Killeen. "I hope that people will come in and really see Killeen for what it is. You know, see that it's a growing area and see that there's lots available here," she said.
Businesses hope that by opening their doors and putting their best foot forward media all around the world will see what a great community Killeen is.
The Chamber of Commerce will also host receptions at local hotels for the media during the trial.
