Good morning, Waco.

A new Dog Haus Biergarten will host a ribbon cutting celebration on Friday, October 17 at 11:30 a.m. at 215 S.

University Parks Drive* owner Erin LeDoux said the restaurant will fully open in 2026.

Today, the City of Waco is considering banning eight-liners from local businesses after police reported that places with these machines receive more calls about violent incidents; some residents argue the machines help relieve stress during long work shifts.

City officials plan to change a local ordinance while business owners worry the ban could hurt the local economy—sparking a debate over safety and community benefit.

A deadly screwworm was confirmed in a cow from Montemorelos, Nuevo Leon—about 170 miles from Texas—and Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller warned that swift action is needed to protect the state’s cattle industry.

State and federal partners are deploying TDA Swormlure traps in South Texas and planning further measures to strengthen detection and eradication efforts.

Military families in Bell County have increasingly used the Armed Services YMCA Food Pantry in Harker Heights as the government shutdown continues, with a 34% increase in requests for help over the past nine days—families fear missing their October 15 paychecks while still relying on childcare support with flexible payment plans. The pantry remains open from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursdays to serve those in need.

Grassroots plans to redevelop the former Sanger Avenue Elementary School site into a 25-home subdivision, with work scheduled to start as soon as January—14 of the homes will be sold at below market prices.

Waco ISD and the city approved a $32M sale of the Jefferson-Moore campus—officials said they will learn and preserve the school’s history as they plan new designs for the site.

Grassroots Waco will take ownership of a city-owned lot at Sanger Avenue and 17th Street soon to begin development of 25 cottage-style homes, with 14 units set as affordable housing and 11 sold at market rate.

The project received a $3 million federal grant and construction is expected to begin in about one year — a boost to local housing options.

Dancing with the Waco Stars 2025

5-9:30 p.m. — Waco Hippodrome Theatre — VIP tickets from $100 — Enjoy an exciting night of local talent and Broadway-themed dance while supporting a great cause.

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.

The Unknown Christian Women's Tour

6-7:30 p.m. — Waco Convention Center — Tickets start at varying prices — Enjoy a night of fun, laughter, and worship with friends.

Medicare Made Easy Workshop

6-7 p.m. — East Waco Library — Free entry — Navigate Medicare complexities with confidence in this informative session.

HOWLOWEEN BASH 2025: Welcome To The Jungle

7:30-11:00 p.m. — Waco Convention Center — Ticket prices vary — An unforgettable night of wild fun with gourmet food, dancing, a costume contest, and a doggy fashion show.

Farmer Veteran Coalition Stakeholders Conference

October 26-28 — Waco Convention Center — Sponsorship opportunities available — Connect with fellow farmer veterans and learn about resources and support.

Trunk or Treat

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Waco ISD Stadium — Free entry — A fun and safe way for kids to enjoy Halloween with candy, treats, and music.

Waco Life Drawing Session

6-8 p.m. — The Performing Arts Community Center — Free entry — All skill levels welcome to explore creativity with life drawing in a supportive environment.

Live Music Night with Local Artists

8-11 p.m. — The Blue Dog Wine and Martini Bar — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of live music featuring Max, Lynnette, Shawna, and Steven.

Frozen The Musical

2:30-3:30 p.m. — Waco Civic Theatre — N/A — Experience Disney’s Broadway production of Frozen with stunning visuals and beloved songs in Waco.