Good morning, Waco.

Oncor is planning to expand its Waco substation on 25th Street between Park Lane Drive and Meridian Avenue to boost reliability as energy demands grow—construction will begin later this year or early 2026 after outages affected over 6,000 residents in February.

Tariffs on imported steel and aluminum began on March 12 and raised cost concerns for funeral homes during a difficult time for families.

Most companies use American-made caskets, but Central Texas Casket—sourcing from Mexico—faces a 20% cost increase and will keep prices steady if possible.

The Texas Senate advanced a controversial school voucher bill to the House floor, a move that split the community.

Teacher Mia Guillen said the $10,000 vouchers could harm public schools—while supporters like Michael Berlanga believe the change will give parents more choice.

Lawmakers are debating Senate Bill 76—an effort to end the county-wide polling place program that lets voters choose any location—and local official Jared Goldsmith warned the change could hurt rural voters and raise costs.

He urged residents to share their thoughts with state and local leaders as the bill moves through the Senate State Affairs Committee.

Officials confirmed 20 new measles cases were reported in West Texas this past week—an outbreak that affected communities in Central Texas.

After rain cleared today, food truck vendors from across Texas gather in Waco for the Food Truck Showdown—participants try new menu items and compete for the Grand Champion award.

Baylor football’s cornerbacks room is led by new coach Paul Gonzales who joined from TCU in January to give young players more attention after most seniors left; transfer Calvin Simpson-Hunt from Ohio State adds experience, and the Bears will face Auburn on August 29 at McLane Stadium.

Monthly Cruise-In

6-8 p.m. — Tejun The Texas Cajun — Free admission — Celebrate car culture with fellow enthusiasts at this vibrant monthly gathering.

Magnolia Market Rooftop Lounge

9 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Magnolia Market — $25 per person — Enjoy unlimited views of Waco and refreshing drinks from the rooftop lounge.

2nd Saturday Car Show

9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. — So-Cal Speed Shop Waco — Free entry — Show off your ride and chill with fellow car enthusiasts at this monthly gathering.

Lunch with the Masters: The Dirt Doctor

12-2 p.m. — McLennan Community College Conferences — Free entry — Discover organic gardening secrets with Howard Garrett, the expert known as “the Dirt Doctor.”

Magnolia Market Rooftop Lounge

9 AM – 6 PM — Magnolia Market — $25 per person — Enjoy unlimited access to stunning views of Waco from the rooftop lounge along with refreshments.

Cars & Coffee Gathering

9-11:30 a.m. — Black Rifle Coffee Company — Free entry — Enjoy a morning of car enthusiasts, coffee, and networking in Waco's vibrant community.

Easter Brunch Celebration

8 AM - 1 PM — The Brasserie at Hotel 1928 — Check website for pricing — Enjoy delicious seasonal dishes and a special visit from the Easter Bunny with a chance to win a hotel stay.

The Bluebonnet Festival at the Texas Festival

Apr 23-27 — Extraco Events Center — Entry fees vary — Enjoy exciting horse competitions and over $4,000 in prizes at the Bluebonnet Festival.

Magnolia Market Rooftop Lounge

9 AM – 6 PM — Magnolia Market — $25 — Unwind with refreshments while enjoying stunning views of Waco from the rooftop lounge.

Arbo Fest 2025

10 a.m.-4 p.m. — Carleen Bright Arboretum — Free entry — Celebrate local culture with live music, food trucks, and fun activities for all ages.

Leading Waco Women Spring Workshop

Lead. Inspire. Elevate. The Leading Waco Women series isn’t just an event—it’s a movement. Designed to celebrate, empower, and develop female leaders across our community, this annual series provides transformative professional development experiences. Through dynamic keynote speakers, engaging panel discussions, hands-on workshops, and powerful networking, you’ll gain the tools, insights, and connections to thrive in your career and beyond. This is your opportunity to invest in yourself and the future of women’s leadership in Waco. Whether you attend solo, bring a friend, or bring your entire team, you’ll leave inspired, equipped, and ready to lead boldly. Don’t just sit on the sidelines—be part of the change. Join us at Leading Waco Women Spring Workshop!