Good morning, Waco.

Downtown residents recently found that a data center — operating on Austin Avenue since 2009 and acquired by DataBank in 2020 — quietly supports disaster recovery for cities like Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio.

City officials confirmed it has always been permitted under zoning rules.

Waffle House plans to open a restaurant in Waco, but it has not revealed the address or timetable yet.

The Texas Education Agency appointed three board managers and interim superintendent Dr. Josie Gutierrez to oversee Connally ISD after two campuses failed state standards for five consecutive years.

Gutierrez began her 21-day interim contract Wednesday — a move meant to stabilize the district until elected control returns.

Southern Careers Institute will host a Workforce Advisory Committee meeting on May 15 to connect local employers with students and offer scholarships through its Waco PD partnership — the event will be held at 3700 I-35.

Governor Greg Abbott visited TSTC Waco on Wednesday to stress the growing need for skilled workers as Texas invests in career and technical education.

During his visit, BlackRock pledged $30 million to support training programs that help meet industry demands.

Property owners in McLennan County are challenging high appraisals before the May 15 deadline; they can file notices online or by mail plus submit evidence like recent sales and repair estimates to support their case.

Mexia’s Black Cats track teams return to state finals for the first time in nearly a decade as both the girls and boys qualify after weeks of intense practice; they will compete on Thursday, May 14 in Austin + the milestone highlights the program’s renewed strength.

ShopOrama! Crafted & Boutique Show

4 PM – 7 PM — Waco Convention Center — Entry fee varies — Enjoy a stylish girls’ day out featuring handcrafted items and home décor.

Willie Nelson & Family Live

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Baylor Ballpark — Tickets start at $335 — Experience an unforgettable evening with Willie Nelson & Family.

Kiss Me Kate

7:30-10:00 p.m. — Waco Civic Theatre — Ticket purchase required — Enjoy a classic musical comedy brought to life at a local theater.

Kiss Me Kate

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Waco Civic Theatre — Tickets available — Enjoy a classic musical filled with humor and romance.

Badass Texas Half-Marathon

Sunday morning — Heritage Square — Entry fee required — Conquer the challenging course with Texas views and celebrate at the epic Finisher Fest.

Kiss Me Kate

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Waco Civic Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a classic musical performance at a local favorite venue.

Baylor Football Youth Camp 2026

4-8 p.m. — McLane Stadium — $25 tuition — A youth football camp for 3rd to 8th graders with limited spots available.

2026 RGIII Football Academy

8 AM – 1 PM — McLane Stadium — $50 per session — Learn football fundamentals from expert coaches and current players at Baylor's football academy.