Welcome to the Autumn season!
Here are all the fall festivities needed to get in the spooky spirit.
The Great Pumpkin… Patch
Central Christian Church has been “Waco’s Pumpkin Patch Church” since 2006. Their pumpkins will be arriving at noon on September 29th, which is when they anticipate opening the patch to the public. CCC’s pumpkin patch is open every day of October from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Pumpkins are priced by size, ranging from $0.75-$50, and cash and credit cards are accepted as payment. All proceeds benefit the children and youth ministries and other missions/outreach efforts. There is no admission fee to visit the Pumpkin Patch! They’re located at 4901 Lake Shore Dr, Waco, TX 76710.
The Western Belle Family Farm festivities will continue through November 2nd with interests for the whole family, including a corn maze, a pumpkin patch, hayrides, animals, and live music! The Pumpkin Festival is open Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. They will be open on Fridays in October from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets range from $5.49 to $35.49. The address is 7929 Heritage Parkway, West, TX 76691.
Sancho Rancho will open every Saturday and Sunday of October from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. With a $30 admission per car, enjoy a hayride, ride a horse, feed the animals, bounce through inflatables, and hunt like an investigator. Make sure to test out your rodeo skills on the mechanical bull and savor flavors from numerous food trucks! The ranch is located at 981 Coyote Run in Waco, TX.
The Robinson Family Farm kicks off their Fall Festival on September 28th, opening their doors every weekend until November 10th. The $19.95 ticket will provide you access to pig races, ax throwing, corn cannons, and live music! Their new location is at 2651 Bob White Road in Temple, TX.
Cultivate12 Paint Your Own Pumpkin
Get ready for a night of fall fun at Cultivate 7Twelve Art Gallery with our Pumpkin Paint & Sip on October 10th from 6-8 PM! For just $20, you can enjoy a cozy evening painting pumpkins while sipping on your favorite drinks. No experience is required—just bring your creativity, and we’ll provide the rest. It’s the perfect way to spend time with friends, enjoy a fun date, or simply unwind in a relaxed, artistic setting. Space is limited, so reserve your spot today!
Haunted Happenings
American Scare Grounds is a haunted house just north of Waco. Offering both fun and fright, the $25 entrance fee covers a bloody good time! The Scare Grounds are open every Friday and Saturday through the months of September and October from 7:30 p.m. to midnight. They will be operating under special hours the week of Halloween. They are located at 14656 I35 N Frontage Road, Elm Mott, TX 76640.
Waco Ghosts is touring through the city. On these nightly walks, participants are taken throughout the oldest sectors of downtown, discovering the stories of tortured souls in Waco. The tour starts at the Dr. Pepper Museum and lasts around an hour. Adults can hunt the haunt for $20. Children under 13 are covered for $12, and children under 6 can participate free of charge.
Oakwood Cemetery will be performing “Walking Tales” on October 19, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Historic interpreters will be stationed throughout Oakwood Cemetery, sharing stories of the times and lives of the renowned names buried at 2124 S 5th Street, Waco, TX.
Oktoberfest
Southern Roots Brewing Company will be celebrating their 4th annual Oktoberfest and 5th anniversary this year! From October 17th to the 19th, Southern Roots will have three fun filled days packed with activities, food, and beer. Scan the QR code on the flier below for more information. They are located at 219 N 8th Street, Waco, TX 76701.
Barnett’s Fest is happening from October 4th through the 6th. With contests, prizes, and drink deals, you do not want to miss the party! If you’re not into beer, award winning Barnett’s Pub has the largest selection of whiskey in the state of Texas. Find Barnett’s Pub at 420 Franklin Avenue, Waco, TX 76701.
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a senior double majoring in English and Professional Writing & Rhetoric at Baylor University. She works as a Transcription Assistant at the Baylor University Institute for Oral History and is President of the Baylor Ice Girls for the 2024-2025 season.
Election season is in full swing with candidates campaigning their proposed plans for our communities. Alongside the Presidential candidates, many Texas officials will also be on the ballot at the federal, state, and local levels. To find Texas offices up for election, click here.
September 17th was National Voter Registration Day, in which democracy is fully celebrated and promoted as a nonpartisan, civic holiday. Voter registration closes October 7th, with early voting starting as early as October 21st.
To register to vote, request a postage-paid application through the mail or find one at the county voter registrars’ office, some post offices, government offices, or high schools. You can also print out the online application and mail it to the voter registrar. Applications must be postmarked by October 7. The McLennan County Elections Administration Office (Records Building Basement) is located at 214 North Fourth Street Suite 300, Waco, TX 76701.
When you register to vote, it is typically maintained for life. For this election season, Texan voters should check voter registration status since Governor Greg Abbott’s voter roll clean-up that deemed more than one million voters ineligible, most who have moved or passed away.
McLennan County will have multiple polling centers across the region, with only particular sites available for early voting. To find the nearest voting center, view the website here. For all other voting concerns, please visit www.mclennan.gov. Election day is on November 5th, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Exercise your right to vote this November!
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a senior double majoring in English and Professional Writing & Rhetoric at Baylor University. She works as a Transcription Assistant at the Baylor University Institute for Oral History and is the President of the Baylor Ice Girls for the 2024–2025 season.
The Waco History Scavenger Hunt, hosted by Waco History to kick off the celebration of the city’s 175th anniversary, began with beautiful weather on the weekend of September 7th, enhancing the enjoyment of our historical exploration. The morning started at the Saturday Farmers’ Market, where participants registered for the event, grabbed breakfast, and enjoyed live music.
The first stop in the scavenger hunt highlighted the early settlements on the Brazos, which included the Indigenous Waco tribe. This permanent settlement is believed to have been established as early as the 1700s, with the Waco people building bee-hive-shaped dwellings and cultivating crops such as pumpkins, lima beans, and corn. The Mexican government protected the Waco from a threatened raid involving Stephen F. Austin and his troops, which was ultimately resolved through a peace treaty. Over time, the Waco people were decimated and relocated by disease and white settlers, eventually being pushed to areas in Oklahoma.
This historical marker is placed outside the Taylor Museum of Waco and McLennan County History, which is currently undergoing extensive renovations to function as a research and learning center. The museum’s structure itself holds a rich narrative, as it was originally the first African American school in Waco. With a breeze flowing through the leaves of the massive trees, it feels like hallowed ground—an unexpected surprise in the midst of bustling Waco.
In addition to the Farmers’ Market and the Waco History Scavenger Hunt, the 2.4-mile open-water swim meet, “The Beast of the Brazos,” was taking place in the river that flows through our city. The Brazos River played a vital role in the development of Waco. Its shallow riverbeds allowed cattle drivers traveling along the Chisholm Trail to cross the 800-mile-long waterway. When the suspension bridge was constructed over the Brazos in 1870, the increased traffic brought immediate economic benefits, cementing Waco as the cotton and cattle capital of Texas. By the late 1800s, Waco was already rivaling the size of, offering ample opportunity, entertainment, and connectivity.
Soon, Waco became a hub for education. Baylor University moved from Independence in 1886, merging with Waco University. The resulting institution, centered in Old Main, provided classrooms, offices, and laboratories. Old Main was originally referred to as “Main Building” due to its central role in student life. Prior to the integration of Baylor University, McLennan Community College, and Texas State Technical College, the only educational option for Black Wacoans was Paul Quinn College, known as the “Athens on the Brazos.” Each of these institutions has significantly shaped Waco’s educational landscape.
After the Civil War, Black Wacoans pioneered their own spaces for opportunity, entertainment, and connectivity due to persistent racial discrimination. New Hope Baptist Church became a gathering space for African Americans and developed a renowned music program. The church nurtured talents like Jules Bledsoe, an international opera star. The current New Hope building, completed in 1923, stands as a symbol of resilience and optimism, as reflected in its name.
The Waco History Scavenger Hunt opened my eyes to many underrepresented and untold narratives of Waco. Gaining a deeper understanding of this city has fostered a greater appreciation for how our community has developed over time. Getting outside and involved in events like this is vital to cultivating community. Without participating in this event, I would not have witnessed the families, college students, and volunteers exploring the town to uncover stories that explain and shape their own experiences today.
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a senior double majoring in English and Professional Writing & Rhetoric at Baylor University. She works as a Transcription Assistant at the Baylor University Institute for Oral History and is the President of the Baylor Ice Girls for the 2024–2025 season.
By: Elizabeth Riley
Back to school season can be overwhelming while acclimating to new routines and projects. As the weather begins to cool and our lives become packed with responsibilities, it is important to take time outside, surrounding ourselves with all the people, places, and events that Waco has to offer. The start of the semester also brought around 3,000 freshman University students to Waco. The greatest way to get comfortable with the city would be to get involved in the community in many ways.
Homework
Saturday, September 7, 2024: Waco History Scavenger Hunt
The Waco History Scavenger Hunt is a self-paced, online based activity, in which participants travel to historic locations across Waco, take pictures to post on social media, and enter the chance to win prizes. This activity can be started anytime from 8:30 am to 11:00 am by following instructions on the Waco History App.
Sunday, September 8, 2024: Church Hopping
There are almost 200 different churches in the greater Waco area. The start of a new semester is the perfect time to travel between establishments, finding a spiritual home that fits your needs. After sampling denominational communities and pastors, taste test breakfast and brunch restaurants around town, such as Harvest on 25th, Our Breakfast Place on Franklin, or The Toasted Yolk on Washington.
https://spirituallife.web.baylor.edu/campus-ministries-church-connections/local-churches
Monday, September 9, 2024: Genealogy Research Walkthrough
Does your family have deep ties to Texas or the Southeast? The West Waco Library and Genealogy Center is helping uncover and rediscover family histories from 12:00 pm to 1:15 pm on Monday. After searching through records of cemeteries, newspapers, and other archival sources, use the library space to get ahead with academic responsibilities. Study time is vital!
https://calendar.wacolibrary.org/event/11526027
Tuesday, September 10, 2024: Baylor Women’s Volleyball vs SMU
Baylor Women’s Volleyball takes on the ACC’s Southern Methodist University at the Ferrell Center at 7 pm. The women’s volleyball team has won all four of their opening games, and they are hoping to extend this winning record against the Big Ten/Big 12 Challenge opponents. Volleyball sporting season lasts until November. If you’re unable to catch this week’s match, check out the schedule to find a game for you!
https://baylorbears.com/sports/womens-volleyball/schedule/2024
Thursday, September 11, 2024: Outdoor Adventure Club takes on Archery
The Outdoor Adventure Club is taking on archery for their welcome back activity! Designated for kids ages 6-11, this program will teach general safety for shooting arrows, care and maintenance for owning a bow, and history of the sporting event itself. Safely practice what you learn with the Outdoor Adventure Club from 4:30pm to 5:30pm on Thursday.
https://calendar.wacolibrary.org/event/12124212
Friday, September 12, 2024: Premier of Waco Civic Theater’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare
Love. Magic. Forests. Faries. From now until September 22nd, the Waco Civic Theater is performing the classic Shakespearean play, A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Tickets for the 7:30 pm show cost $22-$25, and they can be purchased online.
Baylor Family Weekend Begins
Friday kicks off Baylor’s Family Weekend, for which loved ones of current students are invited back to campus for festivities. This year’s activities include Taste of Waco food sampling, After Dark talent performances, and Vertical family worship. Baylor Football takes on Air Force at 6:30 pm on Saturday.
https://familyweekend.web.baylor.edu
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a senior studying English and Professional Writing & Rhetoric at Baylor University. She works as a Transcription Assistant at the Baylor University Institute for Oral History and is President of the Baylor Ice Girls for the 2024-2025 season.
by Elizabeth Riley
A century after the venue’s first screening, viewers of the Waco Independent Film Festival made their way to the Hippodrome Theater in the heart of Waco. Despite the soaring temperatures of late July, the 5 p.m. showing of Breakup Season, written and directed by H. Nelson Tracey, was packed with a buzzing audience prepared to follow a couple traveling to Oregon for the holiday season. This is the eighth year of the Waco Film Festival, which has played a key role in facilitating and promoting the arts in Waco. Films, projects, and awards are presented at iconic locations across the Waco area, including the Hippodrome Theater, Cultivate 7Twelve, and Texas Music Cafe.
While spaces like the Hippodrome have been outfitted with the technology for screening these select films, hiccups occurred this year due to the aging venue and nationwide disturbances in the Windows cloud. However, these technological disruptions did not hinder the spirit of the viewers. Inside the Hippodrome, families introduced themselves to each other in the aisles of the theater, college students conducted interviews in the lobby, and important figures dashed between rooms with lanyards dangling from their necks.
From my seat, I could feel the respect and excitement flitting between individuals in the crowd. When I discovered that the director and lead actor were in the building, I quickly joined in the greater crowd’s anticipation. Although Wacoans are experiencing a scorching summer, this film transported its viewers to a chilled Oregon December, where they witnessed the tumultuous collision of relationship troubles and family traumas. The atmospheric dichotomy between Waco and Breakup Season paralleled that of an independent film festival taking place in a century-old vaudeville theater decorated with beige stucco and gold accents. As the house lights dimmed, all attention focused intently on the glowing scene, melting away the heat and history surrounding us.
The leading actor, Chandler Riggs—famously known for his role in The Walking Dead—expanded on the relatability of the movie in a post-showing Q&A, describing it as a mid-twenties coming-of-age story. Director H. Nelson Tracey captured the volatile, unpredictable growth of individuals and relationships in the years following college graduation. Rather than writing blatant humor into the script, Tracey allowed the audience to lightly interact with the dark, unsettling moments.
Everyone in the audience could relate to some portion of this film, as we all are either experiencing these moments, have experienced them, or will experience them soon. As a result, laughing at the hard parts became easier together. By the time the show concluded, the sun was still baking the city of Waco, leaving the chilled air conditioning and Oregon December a recently cherished memory.
Act Locally Waco is a dynamic, community-focused organization committed to enhancing the lives of Waco, Texas residents. By fostering engagement and collaboration, Act Locally Waco empowers individuals to make meaningful contributions to their neighborhoods. Through providing valuable information, resources, and opportunities for community involvement, we aim to create a stronger, more connected Waco.
Our blog is the heart of our mission, serving as a central hub for all things Waco. It covers a wide array of topics such as local events, volunteer opportunities, educational programs, and inspiring personal stories from community members. By highlighting the dedicated efforts of local organizations and individuals, we showcase the positive impact being made in our community every day. Every Friday, we deliver “The Whole Enchilada” straight to your inbox, packed with the latest news and updates. However, to continue this vital service, we need your support.
At Act Locally Waco, we believe in the power of grassroots initiatives. We encourage residents to take active roles in improving their surroundings, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. Through our blog and weekly newsletter, we aim to build a more vibrant and connected Waco, one story at a time.
We encourage community members to contribute to our blog and events page. By submitting your stories, events, and volunteer opportunities, you can help us keep our content rich and relevant, and assist in our goal of growing our volunteer base and fostering a more engaged community.
Act Locally Waco plays a crucial role in fostering other community initiatives such as the Book Club and Waco Walks. The Book Club, provides a welcoming space for book enthusiasts to come together, discuss literature, and build meaningful connections through shared reading experiences. Meanwhile, Waco Walks, an informal group that emerged from Act Locally Waco’s efforts, encourages residents to explore their city on foot. Hosting several walks annually, the group offers opportunities not only to enjoy the local scenery but also to learn about Waco’s rich history and scientific aspects. By advocating for a more walkable community, Waco Walks promotes a healthier lifestyle and a deeper connection to the community. These initiatives exemplify how Act Locally Waco supports community engagement and enhances the quality of life for Wacoans.
We need your support to continue our mission. By donating to Act Locally Waco, you help us sustain our efforts to provide valuable resources and opportunities for community involvement. Every contribution, big or small, makes a difference. Join us in building a better Waco by visiting our page and considering a donation today.
by: Debrah Wright
As Waco prepares for its municipal elections, attention turns to the candidates and the diverse issues they aim to tackle. The mayoral race, in particular, has garnered interest, with candidates offering varied approaches to address the city’s challenges and opportunities.
**Mark Your Calendars: Election Details**
The general election for the City of Waco Mayor and Council Members for Districts I and III is scheduled for Saturday, May 4, 2024. Early voting will be open from April 22 through April 30, 2024, providing flexibility for residents to participate. Following the election, those elected will be sworn in at a Special Meeting on May 14, 2024, at 6 p.m.
**Accessible Voting Locations and Times:**
McLennan County has designated multiple early voting sites, including the Records Building, community centers, and libraries, ensuring accessibility for all residents. The early voting schedule offers extended hours, accommodating diverse schedules and commitments. Below are the early voting locations and times:
– McLennan County Records Building: 214 N 4th Street, Suite 300
– Robinson Community Center: 106 W. Lyndale Avenue
– Waco Multi-Purpose Community Center: 1020 Elm Avenue
– West Waco Library: 5301 Bosque Blvd
– Hewitt City Hall: 200 Patriot Court
Early voting times are as follows:
– Monday, April 22 to Friday, April 26: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day
– Saturday, April 27: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
– Sunday, April 28: 1 to 6 p.m.
– Monday, April 29 to Tuesday, April 30: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day
The mayoral race features three candidates:
Three candidates are vying to become the next mayor of Waco, to be decided in May. Jim Holmes, the District 5 council member and mayor pro tem; Aubrey Robertson, an attorney and former Democratic candidate for McLennan County district attorney; and Eric Brown, a pastor and activist, have each filed for the seat. The winner of the May 4 election will succeed Dillon Meek.
**Jim Holmes:** Jim Holmes has served on the Waco City Council since 2016. With 35 years of financial management experience, including roles as COO/EVP of FirstCity Financial Corp & SVP of FNB of Central Texas, he brings a wealth of expertise. Currently, he serves as President of HOTCOG, Chairman of Waco MPO, & Board Director for Waco Sports Commission & Cameron Park Zoo. Jim is a graduate of Creighton University and attended Baylor School of Law. Bringing a background in public service, Holmes emphasizes infrastructure investment and economic development as key priorities for Waco’s future. (https://www.jimholmeswaco.org/)
**Aubrey Robertson:** Aubrey Robertson is an attorney with a background in Political Science and Slavic and Eastern European Studies. Transitioning from aspiring to draft constitutions for former Soviet countries to focusing on the criminal justice system, he gained experience in mock trials and criminal law clinics. Aubrey’s extensive experience includes pro bono work, internships, and roles as both a prosecutor and defense attorney. Currently serving as the District Court Felony Chief at the Law Offices of Vic Feazell, P.C., he prioritizes keeping clients informed and confident throughout legal proceedings. With a focus on economic revitalization and community empowerment, Robertson aims to foster small business growth and expand access to affordable housing, known for his stance on Public safety. (https://www.aubreyforda.com/)
**Eric Brown:** Eric Brown brings a dedication to public service and community advocacy. With a background in business administration, he focuses on economic development, education, affordable housing, public safety, environmental sustainability, and social equity. Eric aims to create a brighter future for all residents through innovative solutions and active listening to community voices. Advocating for grassroots initiatives and sustainable development, Brown prioritizes environmental stewardship, social equity, and inclusive governance. (https://www.ericforwaco.com/)
In addition to the mayoral race, other important contests include:
– Waco Independent School District Board of Trustees At-Large, Place 6: Keith Guillory and Lauren Caldwell offer their visions for the future of education in Waco.
– McLennan Central Appraisal District Board Member, Place 2: David R. Schleicher and Perry Felton vie for this position, focusing on fair property assessments.
– McLennan Central Appraisal District Board Member, Place 3: William “Bill” W. Vernon, Jr., Linda Hatchel, and Dennis DeGraff compete for this seat, each with their own ideas for effective property valuation practices.
**Get Involved: Exercise Your Right to Vote**
As the election approaches, it’s crucial for Waco residents to educate themselves on the candidates and their platforms. Whether casting their ballots during early voting or on Election Day, every vote counts in shaping the future of the city. For more information on voting locations and ballots, residents can visit mclennan.gov/elections and make their voices heard in this pivotal election.
by: Debbie Wright
As we gear up to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, a holiday synonymous with the color green, let’s take a moment to reflect on how we can make our celebrations more eco-friendly and contribute positively to our community. This year, why not go beyond wearing green attire and consider participating in events that promote environmental consciousness and sustainability?
Community Composter Certification Course
March 14, 2024, marks the commencement of the Community Composter Certification Course, a remarkable initiative led by Emily Hills, the director of Urban REAP. This comprehensive program aims to educate residents of McLennan County about composting, fostering a network of compost educators and advocates within the community. Participants will delve into topics such as soil and decomposition, composting science, and community outreach, culminating in the creation of independent projects aimed at spreading awareness about composting. By participating in this course, individuals can not only enhance their understanding of sustainable practices but also actively contribute to reducing organic waste in our community.
Just a few days after St. Patrick’s Day, on March 22, we celebrate World Water Day. This year, let’s engage as a community to address water-related issues and promote conservation efforts. Take part in the Brazos River Cleanup and help keep our waterways pristine from 10am – 1pm. After the cleanup, head over to Indian Springs Park for a range of educational and interactive activities. Our partners, including Keep Waco Beautiful, City of Waco Watershed Protection, and more, will offer fun for all ages. Enjoy yard games, kids’ activities, free giveaways, and delicious food and drinks!
Backyard Composting Workshop – March 16
Looking for practical ways to reduce waste and enrich your garden soil? Attend the Backyard Composting Workshop on March 16th and learn how to start your own composting system. Gain valuable insights into the composting process and see firsthand how you can turn kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich compost for your garden.
Spring Plant Share & Garden Day – March 16
Get into the spirit of spring by joining your neighbors at the Spring Plant Share & Garden Day. Share and adopt new plants, gather seeds, and participate in activities to prepare the Butterfly Sanctuary Garden for the season ahead. Learn from Master Gardeners, contribute to volunteer activities, and support the local ecosystem by donating plants for butterflies, pollinators, and birds.
Household Hazardous Waste Day – March 23
After the celebrations wind down, take the opportunity to declutter responsibly by participating in the Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day on March 23. Safely dispose of potentially hazardous items, ensuring they don’t harm the environment or endanger our community.
Companion Planting Workshop – March 30
Wrap up the month of March by attending the Companion Planting Workshop on March 30th. Discover the benefits of planting companions that help each other thrive in your garden space. Learn valuable tips from garden guru April Strickland and maximize the productivity of your garden while promoting biodiversity.
This St. Patrick’s Day, let’s go green in more ways than one. By engaging in these events and adopting sustainable practices, we can make a meaningful difference for our community and the planet. Join the movement towards a greener, more environmentally conscious future. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
A Celebration of Heritage and Diversity
by: Debrah Wright
Black History Month serves as an annual tribute to the remarkable achievements of African Americans, highlighting their pivotal role in shaping the nation’s history. In Waco, Texas, we proudly participate in this celebration, fostering a sense of community and understanding through a diverse array of events throughout the month.
Originating from “Negro History Week,” conceived by historian Carter G. Woodson and other influential African Americans, Black History Month gained official recognition in 1976, with every U.S. president designating February as a time to honor the contributions of African Americans.
Waco’s rich history is deeply intertwined with the presence and influence of African Americans, dating back to the mid-nineteenth century when the first black residents, initially brought as slaves, played pivotal roles in the region’s development. Post-Civil War, they actively worked to rebuild their lives as freedmen and freedwomen, contributing significantly to the growth of Waco and McLennan County.
From the historic HBCU Paul Quinn College to the Farmers Improvement Society advocating for equal treatment post-Civil War, Waco’s Black history is filled with inspiring narratives. All Waco residents and visitors alike can celebrate Black History Month by exploring Black-owned businesses and participating in various events and learning opportunities throughout February.
Highlighted events include a Ceremonial Groundbreaking for the Memorial to Enslaved Persons hosted by Baylor University on February 23 at 1:30 P.M. and a Black History Walking Tour led by experts from Baylor University’s Institute for Oral History on Saturday, February 24th.
Join experts from Baylor University’s Institute for Oral History as they lead you through Downtown Waco for its third annual Black History Walk. Gain insights into historic locations during this educated tour, where guides will highlight influential Black figures like Waco’s first Black mayor, the initial Black female mayor, and the late Commissioner Patricia Miller.
Notably, Waco’s Black history once thrived on Bridge Street, but after the 1953 tornado, business owners relocated to Elm Avenue. The walk commences at the McLennan County Courthouse in downtown on Saturday, February 24th, running from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Be part of this enriching journey uncovering the impactful stories woven into Waco’s historical tapestry.
Waco residents and visitors can also embark on a self-guided tour of Black history throughout the city, curated by Baylor’s Institute for Oral Histories and the Texas Collection. This tour, running from February 1 to 29, explores significant landmarks, churches, bridges, and businesses that contribute to Waco’s diverse heritage.
Additional events include “Black History in the Archives” on February 27th at 4 p.m., hosted by the Black Faculty & Staff Association and The Texas Collection at the Carroll Library, and an Afro-LatinX Cultural Heritage Celebration on February 28th, hosted by the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science at Baylor University in the Student Union Building at 5 p.m. There is also the Big XII Conference on Black Student Government, hosted by Iowa State University from February 29 to March 3, promises a series of engaging discussions and activities.
Explore the Mini Black History Museum at the Dewey Community Center before it closes on February 29th. The Dewey team has curated an excellent display, and the exhibit is available during the following hours:
Monday to Thursday: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (museum closed from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.)
Friday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (museum closed after 3 p.m.)
Saturday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in this enlightening experience celebrating Black history.
Furthermore, Creative Arts Experiences held throughout the month provide opportunities to delve into the works of influential Black authors, musicians, and theatrical performances.
Experience the enchanting melodies of America’s most original genre, jazz, with Baylor’s Concert Jazz Ensemble on February 29 at 7:30 p.m. in Jones Concert Hall, Glennis McCrary Music Building.
Join us in Waco as we commemorate Black History Month, embracing the past, present, and future of our diverse community.
by: Debrah Wright
Waco, Texas, known for its vibrant community and historic charm, has recently experienced a wave of small businesses closing their doors, leaving locals saddened and concerned about the economic impact on the city. It’s disheartening to witness these closures, prompting a crucial moment of reflection to explore the closures of iconic establishments—Sironia, Bicycle World, Fuzzy’s and O-I—and delve into the broader implications for the local business landscape. This serves as a reminder that the success of our small businesses hinges on the support of our community.
Sironia: A 20-Year Legacy Comes to an End
After more than two decades of serving the Waco community, Sironia, a beloved local boutique, recently announced its closure. This charming store, known for its unique gifts, home decor, and boutique clothing, had become a staple for residents and visitors alike.
Sironia’s closure raises questions about the challenges small businesses face in the ever-evolving retail landscape. Factors such as increased online shopping, rising operating costs, and changing consumer preferences contribute to the struggles many local businesses encounter.
Bicycle World’s Abrupt Exit from Downtown Waco
In a surprising turn of events, Bicycle World, a longstanding fixture in downtown Waco, closed its doors abruptly. This departure left cycling enthusiasts and locals puzzled, as the shop had been a go-to destination for bike sales, repairs, and community events.
The sudden closure of Bicycle World highlights the unpredictable nature of the business environment. Economic downturns, unforeseen challenges, or shifts in consumer behavior can force businesses to make tough decisions quickly. It also underscores the importance of adaptability and resilience for small businesses in today’s dynamic market.
Mike Copeland’s Insights: Fuzzy’s Future and O-I Closure Fallout
Mike Copeland’s recent column sheds light on various business developments in Waco, including the closure of O-I Glass, one of the most prominent glass bottle manufacturers around the globe, is shutting down its Waco facility after 79 years of service. This impending closure caused a lay off of an approximate 300 employees. Owens-Illinois Glass, a global glass bottle manufacturing leader, is closing its Waco facility. Copeland explores the potential ripple effects of O-I’s closure on the local economy, touching on issues such as job loss and the impact on nearby businesses.
This article also shares that Both Waco-area Fuzzy’s Taco Shop restaurants, including the location in Downtown and Hewitt Drive have closed. Both area locations have now closed, including the Baylor student frequented on University Parks Drive that often seemed so lively, with patrons spilling onto the patio.
The interconnectedness of local businesses becomes apparent in the wake of closures like Fuzzy’s and now Bicycle World. Small businesses often rely on each other for support and foot traffic, creating a delicate ecosystem. Understanding and addressing the challenges faced by individual businesses can be crucial in preserving the overall health of the local economy.
Looking Forward: Challenges and Opportunities
While the closures of Sironia, Bicycle World, Fuzzy’s and O-I may paint a challenging picture for Waco’s small business community, it’s essential to recognize the opportunities for growth and revitalization. Initiatives such as community support, strategic partnerships, and adapting to changing consumer preferences can play a vital role in fostering a resilient local business landscape.
Small businesses are the heartbeat of our community, contributing directly to our local economy. They are more than just storefronts; they are the livelihoods of the people they employ and the families they sustain. It becomes particularly challenging when a multitude of factors stack against our small business owners.
As Waco navigates these shifts, community members, local leaders, and business owners must collaborate to address the underlying issues and work towards creating an environment where small businesses can thrive. The stories serve as reminders of the resilience required to weather the storms of the business world, ultimately shaping the future of Waco’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Let’s challenge the narrative and be the change we want to see in Waco. Small businesses are the backbone of our community, giving back in numerous ways. Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to rally behind our small business leaders. Be the Waco you envision, and let’s show our support.