Good morning, Waco.

New Giving Machines let shoppers donate to local charities with a tap at Spice Village following a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday (supporting groups like the Advocacy Center for Crime Victims and Friends for Life).

They will remain available until Dec. 30 and feature daily musical performances except Christmas Day.

Local shops in Waco offer an appealing alternative to online holiday shopping as the December 25 gift deadline nears — owners say personal service and unique finds build community connections while keeping local money circulating.

Texas State Technical College in Waco added five new Piper Pilot 100i aircraft (from Piper's headquarters in Vero Beach) that feature updated avionics to give aviation students realistic flight training.

The planes first arrived in November 2023 and mark a major upgrade as older models are phased out.

Gov. Greg Abbott announced a statewide push to bring Turning Point USA chapters to Texas high schools on Monday with State Rep. Pat Curry backing the plan to support balanced discussions on values and constitutional principles.

Details on implementation remain unclear.

Baylor football hired Joe Klanderman as its new defensive coordinator (from Kansas State where he was the Wildcats DC) to rebuild a defense that struggled last season.

Coach Dave Aranda and Athletic Director Doug McNamee said the move will boost performance for the Bears in Waco.

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.