Good morning, Waco.

Downtown McGregor’s historic Texas Theater, unused for decades, is now being restored by neighbors to revive the 1912 landmark and brighten a Main Street with many vacant buildings—board member Renee Flores said work on restoring the seats is underway and a movie night is planned for this summer. This community effort aims to preserve local history and spark new life in the town center.

Waco food pantries are serving more families as local nonprofits report rising demand even though they have not yet felt the impact of federal funding cuts—threatening a $5.5 million support program for the Central Texas Food Bank—and are closely monitoring food supplies.

Local groups such as Shepherd’s Heart and Caritas are working to meet the increasing need while keeping an eye on possible future shortages.

Jake Smith from TxDOT’s Waco District said distracted driving contributed to over 91,000 crashes and nearly 400 deaths in Texas last year and urged drivers to complete needed tasks before driving.

Officials warned that major construction on I-35 South Waco—bringing lane shifts and speed changes—adds risk as Baylor student Dillon Bedell recalled his December 2024 collision that totaled his car.

Jury selection began Monday in the trial of James Keylan Willis, who along with Brandon Xavier Stephens is charged in the 2022 death of Stanley Wilcox—both remain in jail on $1.5 million in bonds while a third man faces related charges.

Texas State Technical College named veteran officer Howard Sylve as its statewide police chief—he joined this spring—and he will lead campus police in Waco, Harlingen, and Sweetwater while aiming to improve pay, training, and hiring.

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.

Healthy Kids Running Series Waco

3-4 p.m. — City of Waco Brazos Park East — Registration required — A lively series promoting active lifestyles for kids aged 2-14 through fun running events.

17th Heart of Texas Sertoma Kite Festival

5-10 a.m. — Heart of Texas Miniature Aircraft Club — Free entry — Enjoy a free family day with kites, food, games, and fun activities for kids.

Cinco De Mayo Celebration

6:00 p.m. — The Backyard Bar Stage and Grill — Free entry — Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with vibrant flavors and lively festivities in Waco's favorite backyard venue.

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!