Good morning, Waco.

A 21-year-old Dallas man pleaded guilty to murder and aggravated robbery on Monday and received two life sentences for killing 59-year-old Stanley Wilcox in Waco in 2022 — officials said the sentence marks the conclusion of a thorough investigation.

Waco police responded at 8:55 p.m. Sunday night to the 1700 block of JJ Flewellen Road and found three men shot—one 18-year-old killed and two others aged 18 and 23 in stable condition—stating the targeted shooting poses no ongoing threat to the public.

Brandon Stephens, a 21-year-old from Dallas, pleaded guilty to murder and aggravated robbery in connection with the 2022 killing of Stanley Wilcox near Baylor University—receiving two life terms in prison.

Waco police said an 18-year-old was killed and two other men were wounded in a shooting Sunday night (off J.J.

Flewellen Road).

Bell County Catholics mourn Pope Francis as his loss is felt across the community—Belton resident Jose Rafael Flores plans a mural tribute and a teacher in Killeen shared how his compassion touched their faith.

No official memorial events have been announced, and many parishioners now turn to prayer and shared remembrance to honor his legacy.

Tariffs announced in recent weeks have raised market uncertainty and may force Waco to reconsider its bond sale for street work — water and wastewater improvements.

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.

Awakening Events: Upcoming Christian Music Concerts

6:30-10 p.m. — Waco Hippodrome Theatre — Ticket info available — Experience a night of uplifting Christian music at this vibrant 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!

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!

Los Roachez Concert

8:30-11 p.m. — The Backyard Bar Stage and Grill — $10-$15 — Enjoy a vibrant live performance from Los Roachez with great drinks in a lively atmosphere.

Infused with Love: A Mother’s Day Sips and Sweets Affair

Afternoon — 407 S 8th St, Waco, TX — Free entry — Celebrate Mother's Day with infused waters, sweet treats, and local shopping.