Good morning, Waco.

Communities in Schools and 6 News are collecting donated shoes to help Central Texas students succeed in school.

The Shoes 4 Kids drive will accept new or gently used athletic and dress shoes at drop-off sites, including the Carlson Law Firm in Killeen and Walmart in Waco on Nov. 19—donations will be collected from Nov. 15 through Dec. 15.

Waco's $1 billion Graphic Packaging International plant started production today—pumping out product with little fanfare.

Full capacity is expected to be reached in 1 year to 18 months.

The Dr Pepper Museum in Waco will begin a major restoration of its historic 1906 building this December—expected to finish by March 1—with plans to install an ADA ramp, replace plexiglass windows with historically accurate glass, and restore original wood and lattice features along Mary Avenue and 5th Street. The project, funded by Keurig Dr Pepper, city grants, and private donors, aims to be completed before spring break to better serve the museum’s 500,000 annual visitors.

The TEA released the final 2024-2025 Financial Integrity ratings for Texas public schools yesterday—81% of districts earned an A rating, with Waco ISD included among those recognized.

The ratings are based on 21 financial indicators from annual reports submitted by each school district.

A proposed concrete batch plant on South Lacy Drive will be reviewed at a public hearing on December 1st at 7 p.m. at Hilton Waco (113 S.

University Parks Drive) as residents and health experts express concerns about air quality and suggest stronger filtration measures.

Baylor athletics director Mack Rhoades resigned as CFP chair for personal reasons on Thursday and took a leave of absence, and the CFP Management Committee appointed Arkansas AD Hunter Yurachek as chair for the remainder of the 2025 season—adding Utah AD Mark Harlan to the committee.

On Thursday night, the UIL high school football playoffs began as Axtell beat Cayuga 31 to 14 at Groesbeck High School and Thorndale defeated Moody 42 to 7 at Wildcat Stadium.

Axtell will face the winner of Tom Bean versus Bangs next while Thorndale held control from start to finish.

Dia De Sendero - Sendero Flagship 1 Year Anniversary

Sendero Provisions is celebrating one year of the Flagship Store in downtown Waco with Dia de Sendero — a full day of live music, local vendors, eats, drinks, and good times. Free with RSVP, but entry isn’t guaranteed.

Dia De Sendero - Sendero Flagship 1 Year Anniversary

Sendero Provisions is celebrating one year of the Flagship Store in downtown Waco with Dia de Sendero — a full day of live music, local vendors, eats, drinks, and good times. Free with RSVP, but entry isn’t guaranteed.

Frozen The Musical

7:30 p.m. — Waco Civic Theatre — $24.50 – $27.50 — Dive into the enchanting world of Arendelle with Disney's spectacular live stage production of Frozen.

20th Annual Central Texas Turkey Trot

9 AM – 12 PM — City of Waco Brazos Park East — Details to be announced — Celebrate Thanksgiving with a fun run in a beloved local tradition.

Vienna Light Orchestra Christmas Tour

7-10 p.m. — Waco Hall — Limited seating available — Experience a magical holiday concert filled with symphonic music and festive surprises.

Al Joslin - The Elvis Experience

7:30-9 p.m. — Waco Hippodrome Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a special Christmas tribute to Elvis with world-class performer Al Joslin.

Sendero Provisions Co. Annual Warehouse Extravaganza

Join us for the biggest deals this side of the Brazos at Sendero’s Annual Warehouse Extravaganza. Swing by this weekend for $10 hats and tees, $5 bandanas, and deep discounts on outerwear, shirts, dresses and a whole lot more.

Every Christmas Story Ever Told

2:30-5:30 p.m. — Waco Civic Theatre — $22-$25 — Experience a humorous whirlwind of holiday stories that blend laughter and heartwarming moments.

Medicare Made Easy Workshop

1:30-2:30 p.m. — South Waco Library — Free entry — Navigate the complexities of Medicare with confidence in this informative workshop.

Stars Over Texas Jamboree - Christmas Edition

7-9:30 p.m. — Lee Lockwood Library and Museum — $20-$16 — Experience a festive musical showcase in a cozy library setting.

Every Christmas Story Ever Told

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Waco Civic Theatre — $22-$25 — A comedic and heartwarming journey through all the beloved Christmas tales you know and love.