Good morning, Waco.

Waco Police and Friends for Life will team up on Dec.

13 for its 35th annual holiday gift program. Sgt. Matthew McCallister will dress as Blue Santa to help wrap and deliver presents to isolated seniors and adults with disabilities.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints installed new Light the World Giving Machines in Spice Village that let shoppers donate to six Central Texas nonprofits plus CARE.

Unveiled with a ribbon-cutting, the machines offer items from comfort kits to goat donations (helping donors visualize their impact).

Truck drivers in Waco waited in a half-mile long queue at Graphic Packaging International on Wednesday, facing costly delays in pickup and drop-off; the line finally moved at 4 p.m. and officials have yet to explain the hold-up.

Waco restaurants and retailers are facing rising credit card fees and are weighing whether to pass these costs on to customers (some urging cash payments) amid growing financial pressure.

More than 2,000 jobs are open in McLennan County in restaurants, hospitality, and other sectors + a hiring event is held today at Hotel 1928 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Chilton ISD was chosen for the inaugural Academy of Cybersecurity (a program created through partnerships with Baylor, McLennan Community College, Region 12 and Scinary Cybersecurity) that will offer local students new career opportunities in a growing industry.

The initiative is set to expand access to vital tech skills.

Hamilton senior running back Halston Haile returned from a severe kidney injury after doctors said he would never play again to lead the Bulldogs to the Class 4A Division II state semifinals today at 6 p.m. (miraculous comeback)

Baylor men's basketball hosted over 3,000 local students at Foster Pavilion for Future Bear Day and beat Norfolk State 97—67, with center Caden Powell scoring 19 points and guard Obi Agbim contributing 18 points.

Coach Scott Drew highlighted the team's evolved play following assistant coach Jared Nuness' departure.

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.

Urban Expressions Artisan Market

9 AM – 12 PM — World Cup Cafe and Fair Trade Market — Support local artisans while enjoying family-friendly activities.

Every Christmas Story Ever Told

2:30-5:30 p.m. — Waco Civic Theatre — $22-$25 — Enjoy a hilarious and heartwarming mash-up of every Christmas story you can imagine.

Waco Trolley Christmas Lights Tour (Late Tour)

2:30-4 a.m. — 6500 Woodway Dr, Woodway, TX — $25 per person — A charming trolley ride showcasing the most magical Christmas light displays in the Waco area.

NYE Party Breakfast Buffet

6:00 pm - 8:30 pm — The Backyard Bar Stage and Grill — Cost Info not provided — Celebrate the New Year with a festive breakfast buffet in Waco.