Good morning, Waco.

The Waco PD held its 5th Annual Back To School Bash at the Waco Convention Center yesterday, drawing around 2,100 people and handing out over 1,400 free backpacks to families.

Commander Chet Long said the event had a good flow — he hopes increased donations will support next year’s bash.

Grace Wallum of Belton is hosting a volleyball and cornhole tournament today (5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.) at Legacy Beach to raise funds for Jenna, the sole survivor of her family lost in the Kerrville flooding.

Multiple fire departments worked together yesterday to extinguish grass fires along I-35 that officials suspect were sparked by a blown 18-wheeler tire.

The Robinson Volunteer Fire Department said Waco and Hewitt crews assisted the response and firefighters later checked for hot spots — drivers were urged to proceed with caution.

Two teenagers were swept away by a strong current in the Lampasas River near Chalk Ridge Falls in Belton on Friday at about 7:33 p.m. and were rescued safely near Interstate 35 — responders advise river users to wear life preservers.

Hill County deputies and Texas DPS arrested Michael Louis Degner (48) of Malone on July 25 after executing a search warrant at West Hackberry Street following reports of nighttime explosions and an improvised explosive device on Ash Creek Bridge; he faces charges of disorderly conduct and unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon with more charges expected.

Waco ISD approved a $4.9M plan that will raise salaries for teachers, staff, and administrators.

Teachers with at least three years of experience will get state-funded raises + staff and newer teachers will see a 2% pay increase.

McLennan County officials said three local creeks—Waco Creek, Castleman Creek, and Tehuacana Creek—pose the highest flash flood risks for residents and urged people in low-lying areas to monitor weather alerts closely.

Emergency management has updated flood response plans and adjusted river stage thresholds to help communities take protective measures during heavy rains.

Extreme Temperatures & Heat Illness Prevention Training

12:30-4 p.m. — Central Texas AGC — Free entry — Learn to prevent heat-related illnesses with valuable training from OSHA experts.

Cars & Coffee

9-11:30 a.m. — Black Rifle Coffee Company — Free entry — Enjoy a morning of automotive camaraderie and caffeine with local enthusiasts.

HOT Pro Wrestling: Master of Puppets

6-9 p.m. — Lion's Den-Rentals — $20 – $35 — Experience Waco's thrilling wrestling showdown with high-flying action and VIP perks.

The Boys From Oklahoma Concert

4-10 p.m. — The Backyard Bar Stage and Grill — $19.50 for adults, $30 for minors — Enjoy a night of music featuring special guest Drew Cooper.

Mothering the Mother Workshop

4:30-5:45 p.m. — Natural Primary Care — Free entry — An event dedicated to pampering and supporting new mothers in navigating the fourth trimester.