Good morning, Waco.

34 years ago, a gunman shot and killed 23 people at Luby’s in Killeen and then took his own life—survivor Suzanne Hupp said losing her parents led to debates that later changed Texas gun laws.

Efforts to keep Connally ISD open continue as Evelyn Brooks from District 14 met with TEA Commissioner Mike Morath to address how pairing campuses for STAAR tests may misrepresent student performance—she noted that combining scores unfairly reflects the true progress of students.

TEA officials will decide on potential state takeover or campus closures next month—further steps will depend on revising the rating system.

McLennan County Commissioners approved a burn ban Thursday due to drought conditions as the U.S. Drought Monitor listed the county as abnormally dry—this measure follows nearly a month without rain.

The Shepherd’s Heart food pantry in Waco is now serving 12,000 more families than this time last year as the federal shutdown continues.

Local officials and Congressman Cuellar warn that if the shutdown lingers, future SNAP payments may be disrupted—raising concerns for families who rely on the program.

The Baylor Club hosted a tip-off luncheon to preview basketball seasons for Baylor and MCC—Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark praised Baylor teams for a strong fall.

The men's team will begin on November 3 at home against Rio Grande Valley while the women's team will travel to France to face Duke.

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.

75th TEXOMA NATS Regional Conference

All Day — Glennis McCrary Music Building — Stay tuned for updates — Celebrate 75 years of regional music talent with conferences and auditions.

Frozen: The Broadway Musical

7:30-10:00 p.m. — Waco Civic Theatre — Tickets required — Immerse in a dazzling spectacle of music and storytelling with Elsa and Anna's epic journey.