Daily
Waco
Thursday, October 2nd, 2025
Good morning, Waco. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 2nd of October.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Heart O’ Texas Fair and Rodeo starts today at the Extraco Events Center in Waco and runs until Oct. 12 with rodeo competitions, live music, a carnival, livestock shows and family-friendly attractions drawing over 200,000 visitors. The event features nine rodeo rounds including the PRCA Permit Finals and Boot Barn Texas Circuit Finals—closing with the Mexican Rodeo Spectacular and awarding more than $450,000 in prize money. KCENTV
- ➤ Meals on Wheels Waco launched the Step Up for Seniors campaign to cut its 400-person waitlist after federal funding cuts weakened services. Community members including State Rep. Angelia Orr supported the effort at a Golinda event—organizers aim to raise 1million dollars to expand help for local seniors. KXXV
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ In Waco, Jennifer Smith has turned a 7-by-16 trailer into a mini bookshop named From the Vault—holding about 500 books and serving community events, birthday parties and author signings. What began as a pandemic hobby has grown into a business that brings reading to neighborhoods across Central Texas. KCENTV
- ➤ The new Webster Market opens in downtown Waco today at 5:30 p.m. in a 54,000 sq ft redeveloped building featuring dining and retail — including food, music and open shops — and seven lease opportunities remain available. KXXV
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ In Waco, Inspiración Waco offers a free dual-generation program at Kendrick Elementary School that teaches Hispanic parents skills like conscious discipline and language learning to help prepare both them and their children for school success. The organization now serving 75 families will host its annual fundraiser on Nov. 6 at Freight Bar to support its ongoing efforts. KCENTV
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ McLennan County residents must submit a voter registration application by Monday, October 6 to vote in the November 4 election—Elections Administrator Jared Goldsmith said people can check their status online or pick up applications at local elections offices, libraries, and post offices. KXXV
- ➤ The City of Waco and Waco ISD will hold a joint meeting Tuesday, October 7 at 6:00 p.m. in the Bosque Theater at the Waco Convention Center to consider a landmark agreement for the former Indian Springs Middle School property—covering a 22.8-acre purchase for $32.2 million and extended lease terms—and may complete the deal by November 14. City of Waco
- ➤ Due to the federal government shutdown, Waco Mammoth National Monument has adjusted its schedule; guided tours and the dig shelter are closed while the Welcome Center, gift shop, trails, and outdoor exhibits remain available with city-led educational activities. The park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. — visitors can still enjoy these key features despite the funding pause. KXXV
- ➤ The federal government shut down yesterday and affected key services relied on by residents and over 249,000 federal workers in Central Texas—actions resulting from Congress not reaching a budget deal. Texas A&M University and other agencies monitored the situation as employees and services faced disruptions. KXXV
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ The Robinson Police Department said raccoons that looked sick were tested and returned negative for rabies—residents are urged to keep pet vaccinations updated and avoid contact with wild animals. KXXV
- ➤ AdventHealth Central Texas has named Jennifer Swenson as its new president and chief executive officer—she will begin on October 20 and report to Trevor Wright while preparing to lead the group’s efforts in Waco. KXXV
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Baylor baseball is returning for Fall ball at Baylor ballpark as the team holds scrimmages to bond new players with veterans—keeping their focus on Omaha. The team will start its 2026 season in the Round Rock Classic on Feb. 20 at Dell Diamond—adding fresh hope for a strong season. KXXV
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Jeff Dunham's Artificial Intelligence Tour
7:30-9:00 p.m. — Foster Pavilion — Ticket details available — Legendary comedian Jeff Dunham brings laughter with his new North American Tour.
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Running With The Bulls Fun Run and 5K Race
8-11 AM — Extraco Events Center — Registration fees apply — Challenge yourself with a fun one-mile run or a competitive 5K at this thrilling event.
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Full Moon Paddle Night
8-10 p.m. — City of Waco Brazos Park East — Limited spots available — Drift under the full moon's glow on the Brazos River with Sunshine Paddle Adventures.
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10 Years in The Backyard
8-11 p.m. — The Backyard Bar Stage and Grill — Tickets available — Tennessee alt rockers 10 Years make their Backyard stage debut.
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Diamond Rio Concert
6-9 p.m. — The Backyard Bar Stage and Grill — Cost info not provided — Country legends DIAMOND RIO return to the Backyard Stage, with special guests VOTH.
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Crystal Gayle Concert
7:30-9 p.m. — Waco Hippodrome Theatre — Ticket required — Experience the enchanting voice of Crystal Gayle, a beloved figure in country music.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.
~ James Clear
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