The Baylor University revised “Animals on Campus Policy” inhibits the feeding of any cats on campus property. Baylor originally issued the “Animals on Campus Policy” in December of 2009, and it was last revised in June of 2023, with the content reportedly being pushed and publicized to students, faculty, and staff in May of 2025. The purpose of this policy is to address the health and safety concerns that animals pose to the campus community, with things such as allergies, disruptions, injuries, disease transmission, and damage to property. Makes sense.
Most of the policy addresses things like service animals in campus classrooms, pets in dormitories, and information about the possible wild animals on campus. However, on page six of the Baylor policy, it states, “For safety, feral cats or loose dogs without owners should be treated with the same caution as a wild animal.” This policy fails to mention pre-existing community cat colonies on campus by not assigning them definitions nor establishing their protections for their current daily habits. If these habits and protections are still in place, Baylor has simply failed to mention it.
I read through the City of Waco’s Municipal Codes, specifically Chapter 5 on ANIMALS, and they define a community cat as any free-roaming cat, regardless of socialization or sociability, cared for by one or more known or unknown residents of the immediate area. Baylor cannot morally, ethically, or legally ask people to stop caring for community cats, when they are recognized as legal entities within city municipalities.
From Chapter 5, Section 129, the City of Waco defines negligent care as failing, refusing, or neglecting to provide any animal in a person’s charge or custody, as owner or otherwise, with proper food, drink, shade, shelter, or veterinary care as may be necessary.
Animal Birth Control of Waco has submitted a proposal to Baylor administration that would allow them to officially manage the campus cat colonies while addressing the university’s concerns about other wildlife. The controversy comes at a particularly sensitive time for the Waco community.
In May, two cats were found shot and hanged from utility lines near the Baylor campus, sparking widespread outrage. Not to mention, Chase the Blue Heeler puppy was just saved from an abusive owner in Lacy Lakeview and is now living with Officer Nathan Rodriguez, who says he “seems very happy in his new home.”
On Friday, a volunteer with Animal Birth Control of Waco arrived to feed cats at one of several colonies she regularly visits on campus. The volunteer was met with a pest control worker, who allegedly told her Baylor University had hired his company to trap and relocate all the feral cats on campus. Carrie Spivey, executive director of Animal Birth Control of Waco, says the cats in question aren’t just strays — they’re part of a managed colony program. Spivey says that relocating these cats would be both illegal and inhumane under Texas law. The cats have become an integral part of campus life, with students regularly interacting with them, taking photos, and giving them names.
While the cats are still alive and well, how long will Baylor be keeping them around? Feeding stray animals is not a crime. College aged students should know to not interact with dangerous, wild animals. Finally, I’d rather care for helpless, innocent creatures than worry about infrastructure with a budget for cleaning.
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a graduate of English Literature and Professional Writing & Rhetoric from Baylor University. With passions in archival preservation, communal connection, and women in sports, she writes because it matters, with hopes of bridging villages and fostering revelry amongst them.
A common misconception about Waco is that there’s nothing to do here.
However, Waco has been growing beyond proportions in recent years, which all living here can agree on due to the amount of traffic and the number of orange cones.
With the growth of our city and surrounding areas, the blossoming communities, and the booming industries, there are tons of new (or soon-to-be) establishments in Waco for natives, transplants, and visitors to check out. This is the second edition of “New Things for Old Wacoans To Do.” If you or someone you know is opening a business, is in need of promotion, or is just looking for ways to get involved with community, contact [email protected] for more information.
Taz Indian Cuisine
160 N New Road, Waco, TX 76710
This vibrant space is filled with traditional, authentic recipes made from fresh ingredients. From sizzling tandoori dishes to creamy butter chicken and hearty lamb curry, Taz Indian Cuisine brings the best cooking to your table every time. Want something mild or with a little more heat? Taz has something for everyone, including a special buffet–a standout feature of Taz Indian Cuisine allows patrons to enjoy endless servings of their favorite foods. From biryani to vegetable samosas, visit Taz Indian Cuisine for a delightful dining experience.
Masa Sushi Bar & Japanese Grill
824 Hewitt Drive, Suite 900, Waco, TX 76712
Masa’s chill, ambient environment makes it the perfect place for date night, a meal out with the family, or just enjoying some time alone. With hibachi, sashimi, soups, salads, and so much more, this sushi bar and grill has every staple you could be craving. Masa prides itself in its attention to detail, its creative flavor combinations, and its intention when serving guests. This is one of the few sushi restaurants in Woodway and the Greater Waco area, and people are very pleased to see its recent opening!
Gen Korean BBQ House
2412 Creekview Drive, Suite 100, Waco, TX 76711
With boundless menu options consisting of freshly prepared meats, seafood, and vegetables, to refreshing and traditional Korean banchan, Gen Korean BBQ House promises a wide array of complex flavors that will truly give your palate a new perception of taste. Founded in 2011 by two Korean immigrants in Los Angeles, Gen Korean BBQ has grown to over forty locations across the United States, while maintaining quality Korean and Korean-American cuisine. With so many “build-your-own” options, you’ll enjoy every meal at Gen Korean BBQ House.
Seoul Korean BBQ and Hot Pot (Opening Soon)
416 N Valley Mills Drive, Waco, TX 76710
The highly anticipated opening of Seoul Korean BBQ and Hot Pot is still unknown, but anticipation is growing for this new restaurant as drivers have witnessed the slow construction on Valley Mills. After taking over the space from Saffron, another local Indian restaurant in Waco, work crews have been tearing the building apart to prepare for the new establishment. Hopefully, an opening date is posted soon, and we can all get in to try the new hot pot spot!
Fox & Co Bakery
Local markets or online
After years of culinary experience and living in Waco, Victor Hernandez has ventured to share his talents and passions involving flour, fire, and flavor. To Hernandez, Fox & Co isn’t just a bakery. This company is a living archive of flavor and feeling. Their treats reside between ritual and rebellion, taking inspiration from the classics with an added twist. Fox & Co doesn’t play it safe with flavors, and neither should you. Order with Fox & Co and discover something you didn’t know you were craving. Need breakfast catered to an event? Custom treats in mind for a celebration? Fox & Co has everything you need with certified excellence.
Kilwins
323 S 6th Street, Suite 120, Waco, TX 76701
The iconic Kilwins is now in Downtown Waco! Just a short walk from the Magnolia Silos, Kilwins has some of the best chocolate, fudge, and ice cream in the city. With hand-crafted chocolates and twenty-four flavors of ice cream, this joint has every sweet treat you could need. Kilwins was originally founded in Michigan in 1947. Since then, they have been sharing sweets with much of the country, and we are happy to have them here in Waco.
M Doughtnuts
407 S 8th Street, Suite D, Waco, TX 76706
This donut shop is picture-perfect with absolutely stunning desserts. M Doughnuts produces hand-crafted, gourmet donuts that take a creative twist on your favorite classics. From pineapple to chocolate fudge-raspberry, every flavor profile is here. You can choose from lemon, wedding cake, classic sprinkles, and so much more when you visit M Doughnuts. The environment makes the doughnuts taste ten times better, with flashy pinks and coppers all over. You cannot miss the aesthetic daydream that is M Doughnuts!
Slumber Rollz (New Location)
101 S New Road, Waco, TX 76710
Your favorite cinnamon roll shop has moved to a new location! Slumber Rollz is in a bright pink building on the corner of Franklin and New Road. They make all of their dough for bread and baked goods in-house, daily. The lemonade is freshly squeezed, coffee beans are ground on site, and milkshakes are handspun at Slumber Rollz. From different combo options to multi-packs for sale, you will walk out with every craving curbed. Get something savory and sweet from Slumber Rollz in one stop!
Uptown Cheapskate (Opening Soon)
1001 Webster Avenue, Waco, TX 76706
In the Webster Market with Casa Do Brasil and Flamingo Ranch, this second-hand shop, Uptown Cheapskate, is making its grand opening very soon. Clean out your closet, drop off some clothes, and earn cash or in-store credit for shopping! Buying second-hand allows you to spend less on brands you love, with all profits staying in and around your area. Uptown Cheapskate has any clothing item you could need, from active wear to cocktail dresses. Stop by and shop soon!
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a graduate of English Literature and Professional Writing & Rhetoric from Baylor University. With passions in archival preservation, communal connection, and women in sports, she writes because it matters, with hopes of bridging villages and fostering revelry amongst them.
A common misconception about Waco is that there’s nothing to do here.
If that is coming from a transplant, by means of work, school, or life, they are just wrong. If that is coming from a native or naturalized Wacoan–what I call someone who has been in the area a while–it could seem that way, especially if you’ve gotten familiar with what is already here and established a presence in the community.
However, Waco has been growing beyond proportions in recent years, which all living here can agree on due to the amount of traffic and the number of orange cones.
With the growth of our city and surrounding areas, the blossoming communities, and the booming industries, there are tons of new (or soon-to-be) establishments in Waco for natives, transplants, and visitors to check out.
Digi Golf Club
1412 N Valley Mills Dr, Suite 108, Waco, TX 76710
This indoor golf simulator is the first of its kind in Waco. Revolutionizing golf in Central Texas, Digi Golf Club allows players to enjoy a full 18 holes from iconic greens across the world. Bucket list destinations are brought right to Waco. Bring your clubs, hit some balls, and enjoy the always-perfect weather at Digi Gold Club. Not to mention, it is open 24/7! Bring your friends and stop by Digi Golf, located right off Valley Mills, at any time.
ReadyGolf
1700 S 5th St, Suite B, Waco, TX 76706
What started as a class project at Baylor University has turned into an accessible, fun, and future-focused business that is centered around a passion for golf. Whether it’s your first time holding a club or you’re wanting to perfect your swing, ReadyGolf is bringing weatherproof, pressure-free play to our city. Need a break from the simulator? Sit back in their comfortable lounge chairs, where you can catch the Baylor game, stream your favorite show, or just kick it with friends.
Hammer & Stain–New Location
1225 Richland Dr, Suite 3, Waco, TX 76710
This DIY workshop is a wood and paint studio where people of all skill levels can make custom home decorations. All tools, materials, and instructors are provided, so bring your creativity and get painting! A new location has been opened on Richland Drive. Hammer & Stain is the perfect space for craft parties and family bonding.
Dog Haus Biergarten–Opening July 31, 2025
215 S University Parks Dr, Suite 102, Waco, TX 76706
Signature beef dogs, handcrafted sausages, and grilled burgers all served on toasted King’s Hawaiian rolls. With creative culinary combinations to top each item on the menu, there is plenty to explore. From sliders to bad-ass breakfast burritos, Dog Haus has garnered national attention for their wide array of quality eats.
Sagrado Cocina and Bar
215 S University Parks Dr, Suite 107, Waco, TX 76701
With traditional Mexican flavors and modern vibes, Sagrado Cocina and Bar is the dining destination of your dreams. Hot salsas, craft cocktails, and melt-in-your-mouth meals will have you coming back to this bold environment again. The picturesque interior is highly styled, and the culinary concoctions match the energy. Having just opened this spring, Sagrado is still climbing in notoriety around Waco. Dine with them to find out for yourself!
Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp–Opening Late July
4671 S Jack Kultgen Expressway, Waco, TX 76705
This Southeast Texas restaurant chain provides a taste of Mexican food spiced with Cajun cuisine. Tia Juanita’s has found a match made in heaven. Try some Grilled Boudin Quesadillas or Blackened Gator Tacos. Perhaps you’d prefer the oyster bar. Anyway, you will be going home stuffed and satisfied! Tia Juanita’s Fish Camp will be coming to Waco very soon, so keep your eye out for the ‘Mexi-Cajun’ creations they are bringing to town.
Tru Jamaica–New Brick and Mortar
937 Taylor St, Waco, TX 76704
After losing their building in East Waco to a fire, Tru Jamaica is reopening its doors. This colorful, easygoing Jamaican eatery serves up delicious oxtail, jerk chicken, and a multitude of curry entrees. Try the flavorful, flaky patties with beef, chicken, or vegetables. With unique Jamaican drinks available as well, you do not want to miss this cuisine.
This is the first installment of “New Things for Old Wacoans To Do.” If you know of a restaurant/business opening up, or one that recently has, send the information to [email protected].
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a graduate of English Literature and Professional Writing & Rhetoric from Baylor University. With passions in archival preservation, communal connection, and women in sports, she writes because it matters, with hopes of bridging villages and fostering revelry amongst them.
Alpha Omega Grill & Bakery
929 Franklin Ave, Waco, TX 76701
Built out of an old transmission shop in historic downtown Waco, Alpha Omega Grill & Bakery is a fantastic Mediterranean joint serving gyro sandwiches, fresh pita, and mezze platters. There is much on this menu to obsess over, and a second location was opened in Hewitt for locals who couldn’t get enough. Alpha Omega offers gluten free, dairy free, and vegan options.
Around the World Bakery
119 N 12th St, Waco, TX 76701
This bakery and coffee shop is bringing internationally inspired desserts directly to downtown Waco. Owned by Hillsboro native, Adilene Camarena, this shop was inspired by the owner’s travels around the world and her own passions in culinary arts. With gluten free options, this bakery takes you around the world from your neighborhood.
Harvest on 25th
112 N 25th St, Waco, TX 76710
This locally owned farm to table restaurant in Waco serves breakfast and lunch everyday from 8 am to 3 pm. With vegan options, gluten free possibilities, and recipes that push the boundaries of standard food, Harvest has something to easily satisfy everyone. With picnic style tables, flowers at every turn, and laughter echoing through the space, Harvest is the place to be with some beautiful community.
Revival Eastside Eatery
704 Elm Ave, Waco, TX 76704
In the heart of historic East Waco, this female owned business serves up delicious salads, sandwiches, and burgers. With a list of craft beers and wine to sip on, Revival has everything you could possibly be craving! Try their iconic sweet potato fries or tomato soup, which are bursting with flavor in every bite.
YAKI Texas Teriyaki
1307 S Valley Mills Dr, Waco, TX 76711
Keeping it simple so that more can enjoy it, YAKI Texas Teriyaki is gluten, dairy, and nut free. This drive-in on Valley Mills serves BBQ rice boxes to-go. Spice up your favorite dish with specialty house sauces, also known as “soss.” Rice, protein, soss, and slaw–a complete meal in a box! Fun foods, crazy colors, and mindful meals makes YAKI one of the best.
While these facilities have gluten free options on the menu, it is important to consider cross contamination in all cases. Please double check with each eatery to confirm their gluten-free dedication. Some items from these places are not safe for those with celiac disease.
Elizabeth Riley hails from Tennessee and is a graduate of English Literature and Professional Writing & Rhetoric from Baylor University. With passions in archival preservation, communal connection, and women in sports, she writes because it matters, with hopes of bridging villages and fostering revelry amongst them.
Every autumn, Waco transforms into a vibrant hub of culture and tradition as the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo rolls into town. This annual event, deeply rooted in Texas heritage, showcases the best of rodeo, live music, delicious food, and family-friendly entertainment. Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, here’s why you should mark your calendar for this unforgettable celebration.
A Rich Tradition
The Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo began in 1953, reflecting the spirit and resilience of the Waco community. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the premier events in the state, attracting thousands of visitors annually. The fair not only highlights the agricultural heritage of Texas but also fosters a sense of community, bringing together families and friends for a week of fun.
Roping and Riding
At the center of the fair is the rodeo, where cowboys and cowgirls from across the country compete in thrilling events like bull riding, barrel racing, and roping. The atmosphere is electric as the crowd cheers on their favorites, crafting a true sense of camaraderie among the community. The rodeo showcases not only the skill and bravery of these riders, but it also acknowledges the deep-rooted traditions of ranching and rodeo culture that Texas is famous for.
Fun for Everyone
While the rodeo is a major draw, the Heart O’ Texas Fair offers a plethora of activities for all ages. From carnival rides to livestock shows, there’s something for everyone. Kids can enjoy petting zoos, face painting, and interactive exhibits, while adults can explore local food vendors, beer and wine gardens, and art displays. The fair’s bustling midway is alive with colorful lights, laughter, and the delightful sounds of carnival games.
Live Entertainment
Music is a key highlight of the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo. Each night features a lineup of talented performers, from local bands to well-known country artists. The concerts offer a perfect opportunity to kick back, enjoy some tunes, and dance under the stars. It’s a fantastic way to experience the local music scene and celebrate the Texas spirit.
Taste the Flavors of Texas
No fair is complete without food, and the Heart O’ Texas Fair does not disappoint. Indulge in classic fair favorites like funnel cakes, corn dogs, and cotton candy, or try something uniquely Texan, like brisket tacos or fried pie. Local food vendors showcase the region’s culinary delights, ensuring that every bite is a true taste of Texas.
Community and Connection
Beyond the festivities, the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo emphasizes community involvement. Local organizations and schools participate, showcasing their projects and achievements. This sense of connection fosters pride and unity, making the event feel like a homecoming for many attendees.
The Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of culture, community, and tradition. Whether you’re a rodeo enthusiast, a food lover, or simply looking for a fun day out with the family, this fair has something to offer everyone.
Grab your cowboy hats, boots, and belt buckles, and get ready to experience the magic of the Heart O’ Texas Fair & Rodeo in Waco. It’s a celebration you won’t want to miss!
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.
Waco, TX (Nov. 23, 23)—In light of the challenges presented by increasing food costs, The Salvation Army of McLennan County is helping by offering Thanksgiving meals to anyone in need. “Rising food costs have created challenges for many people in our community,” said Major James Taylor, leader of The Salvation Army of McLennan County. “Anyone needing food this Thanksgiving is invited to get a hot Thanksgiving meal.”
Community Meal: The Salvation Army hosts a Thanksgiving meal at the Community Kitchen to share the season’s spirit. This will be the 132nd year to serve a Thanksgiving meal in Waco Texas.
Date: Thursday, November 23, 2023
Time: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: 300 Webster Avenue, Waco TX, 76706
How to Get Help:
If you need a Thanksgiving meal, please join us at 300 Webster Avenue on Thursday, November 23, 2023 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Volunteer Opportunities:
We are looking for volunteers to support this event. To volunteer, please sign up online at The Salvation Army Waco/McLennan County – Volunteer Console (cervistech.com) or contact our Volunteer Coordinator at 254.756.7271. We are also asking for pies and cookies and cakes from the community for the event.
Donations:
Your support and generosity will help ensure that everyone in our community can enjoy a warm Thanksgiving meal during this season of gratitude. Donate by visiting our offices at 4721 W. Waco Drive or by mailing a check to 4721 W. Waco Drive, Waco, TX 76710. Please note “Thanksgiving Meals” on the check memo line. Thank you for your kindness and community spirit. Pies, cookies and cakes are need too!
For additional information, please contact 254.756.7271 M-F 8-5 or visit Facebook to see the event.
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About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army, an evangelical part of the universal Christian church established in London in 1865, has been supporting those in need in His name without discrimination for more than 130 years in the United States. Nearly 30 million Americans receive assistance from The Salvation Army each year through the broadest array of social services that range from providing food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children. 82 cents of every dollar The Salvation Army spends is used to support those services in 5,000 communities nationwide. For more information, go to www.salvationarmyusa.org
On Monday afternoon, Waco Family Medicine (WFM) hosted “Flavor Feast,” a free lunch at the Meyer Center for community members experiencing homelessness. The event included a meal provided by Part Time Chef and a cooling station for attendees.
The event kicked off WFM’s recognition of National Health Center Week (NHCW). NHCW is an annual observance sponsored by the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) running from Aug. 6 to 12. It aims to raise awareness and honor the contributions of Community Health Centers (CHCs) like WFM that provide comprehensive healthcare services to millions of patients across the U.S.
WFM’s NHCW programming includes People Experiencing Homelessness Day (Monday), Patient Appreciation Day (Wednesday), and Health Center Staff Appreciation Day (Friday). Patients and staff will be recognized with tokens of appreciation later in the week.
Each year for NHCW, WFM hosts Healthcare for People Experiencing Homelessness Day to highlight and expand the care provided to community members experiencing homelessness in Central Texas. People who experience homelessness endure higher rates of chronic and acute disease, behavioral health conditions, and other needs that are connected to poorer health outcomes, disability, and early death. Located downtown in the same building as Mission Waco’s Meyer Center, Waco Family Medicine – Meyer Center treats more patients experiencing homelessness than most other locations in the clinic system.
In 2022, WFM provided more than 61,000 patients with integrated medical, dental, and behavioral health care across 15 clinical sites. WFM addresses social and environmental barriers to wellness through innovative programs and community partnerships. Additionally, an in-house pharmacy provides quickly filled prescriptions to patients at a fraction of traditional costs.
With a quarter-million patient visits annually, the WFM system cares for one-fifth of McLennan County’s population. Ninety percent of county residents live within 10 miles of a WFM location, making care more accessible to patients, especially those with limited transportation. In 2021, about 74% of WFM patients identified as a racial or ethnic minority, and 22% were best served in a language other than English. The organization strives to provide high-quality, equitable care to meet the medical needs of Central Texans.
WFM invites community members, partners, and supporters to follow the organization on Facebook and Instagram (@wacofamilymedicine) to learn more about the social and economic contributions of CHCs throughout NHCW.
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Waco Family Medicine is a Federally Qualified Health Center providing medical, dental, behavioral health, and community health care at 15 locations across McLennan and Bell counties. The nonprofit also provides graduate medical education through Waco Family Medicine – Institute and serves as a clinical training site for medical residency students, dental students, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical social workers, pharmacy students, medical technicians, and allied health caregivers. WFM was established in 1970 to address a shortage of doctors, lack of access to primary healthcare, and economic development issues.
This food-focused holiday is among the few with roots in charitable service.
Waco, TX June 2, 2023 – On the first Friday in June, Americans celebrate all the gooey goodness of donuts. But many don’t know that National Donut Day has its roots in doing good. This sweet tradition dates back to World War I, when nearly 250 Salvation Army volunteers known as “Donut Lassies” traveled overseas to provide emotional and spiritual support and fried confections, supplies, and other services to troops on the front lines.
The Donut Lassies fried donuts in small pans and are credited with popularizing the donut in the United States when troops returned home from war. The Salvation Army in Chicago celebrated the first National Donut Day in 1938 to help those in need during the Great Depression and commemorate the Donut Lassies’ work.
For over a century, the organization has provided a wide range of essential services like food, shelter, and emotional and spiritual support to the most vulnerable and to many of the men and women serving on the front lines of need.
“This National Donut Day, as citizens of Waco celebrate with a sweet treat, we are proud to remember that this fun tradition started with our volunteers over a hundred years ago,” said Major Jim Taylor. “If you ask me, knowing that the day has its roots in the fight for good makes those glazed pastries taste even sweeter.”
To honor the history of Donut Day, The Salvation Army of Waco will celebrate by spending the day dropping off donuts to First Responders who fight the battle here at home. A “Donut Lassie” will be handing out donuts to over 100 veterans at the VA hospital. Another “Donut Lassie” will be at the HEB on Valley Mills to greet and meet guests as we partner with them statewide to celebrate this day. HEB donated a portion of the donuts for the day and will be giving back 2% of all donut sales for the week (not prepackaged boxes) to The Salvation Army Waco. Shipley’s makes over 20 dozen donuts for delivery as well.
The best way to participate with The Salvation Army Waco is by volunteering either at the Family Store or the Community Kitchen and during the Holidays when Bell Ringing Season is here. Volunteer activities are posted at: The Salvation Army Waco/McLennan County – Volunteer Console (cervistech.com) You can also support the Salvation Army financially by giving online at Donate to TSA Waco General Donation Page (salvationarmytexas.org).
For more information about The Salvation Army of Waco, please visit our website at: https://southernusa.salvationarmy.org/waco or call 254.756.7271 or email [email protected]
By Ferrell Foster
Fifteen months into my life as a Waco resident, I’ve discovered something new — local restaurant food inspection scores. It’s on the City of Waco website.
I ran across this when I saw a story about the scores on KWTX channel 10’s website. I do not totally understand why the scores in the KWTX report do not match up with scores on the city site for the same restaurant; I suspect it has something to do with the reporting day.
When it comes to restaurant scores, lower is better. On the city site there are many zeros (hooray!) and the vast majority have scores in the single digits (more subdued celebration).
The channel 10 report highlighted two Greater Waco scores of 90. Yikes! And the losers are: Burger King #3714 at 103 East Loop 340 in Lacy Lakeview and Cracker Barrel #166 at 4275 North IH-35 in Lacy Lakeview.
Wouldn’t it be nice if restaurants had to to post, in 12-inch lettering on their doors, their most recent score. You’re walking up to your favorite place, which has always in the past had a big “0” on its door, to find a “75.” Whoa! Better think before you open the door and spend your money. Thoughts: There is a new manager. Last time I was here the mashed potatoes didn’t seem right.
Well, restaurants do not have to post their numbers, but we can look them up online, so that’s pretty cool. (Of course, some people do not have Internet access, so they are at a disadvantage in getting this info. Inequities are real.)
I liked that channel 10, after outing the bad players, presented this week’s Clean Plate Award winner — Mamaka Bowls at 215 South University Parks Dr. in Waco, “which obviously got a perfect food inspection score.”
Mamaka’s has endless combinations, the TV station reports. “There are specialty ingredients such as almond butter, cacao nibs, coconut shreds, and spirulina, which is basically blue-green algae. Of course, if you like it plain and simple, items like The Mac with mango, strawberry, pineapple, orange juice, topped with the fruit and a little homemade granola could treat your taste buds right.”
Publicly posted restaurant inspection scores protect all of us from bad players and helps us find the good ones. There simply is no go way for consumers to know what’s going on in the kitchen without such scores. You can get some clues about the cleanliness of a restaurant from how it cares for it’s dining area and, especially, its restrooms. (I have a desire to visit a restroom before I order. Sometimes I regret I went after eating.)
Food is important. A big tip of the hat to the many, many restaurants who are working hard to keep it clean. We need to honor them with our dollars. There are options; we don’t have to do business with dirty eateries. Of course, I wish they would all earn a zero. That would be better for everyone.
Ferrell Foster is acting executive director of Act Locally Waco and senior content specialist for care and communication with Prosper Waco.
The Act Locally Waco blog publishes posts with a connection to these aspirations for Waco. If you are interested in writing for the Act Locally Waco Blog, please email Ferrell Foster at [email protected].
By Maddie McNamee
If you’ve ever been asked about the best brunch spot in Waco, odds are you’ve probably recommended a local treasure called Harvest on 25th. The restaurant, which was born out of a passion for wholesome food and a desire to host good community and culture didn’t exactly start off as a restaurant. In fact, it started off with Juanita Barrientos selling food out of a small kitchen using the produce from Toby Tull’s family farm.
These future business partners had no idea they would soon open a wildly popular restaurant when they first made this arrangement, but when Tull tried some of the food that Barrientos was creating, the idea for Harvest on 25th was born.
In November 2018 Harvest on 25th opened its doors, and this nutritious and delicious restaurant has been a go-to for Wacoans ever since. Cozy on the inside and sleek on the outside, the restaurant itself matches the food they serve —traditional breakfast and lunch staples with a healthy and unique spin.
The eatery has been popular among Baylor students and locals alike for a little over three years now, with people like Emily Hoppie, a recent Baylor graduate, praising her favorite brunch spot, saying: “I love the atmosphere at Harvest on 25th. The people are so kind, the food is always amazing, and the restaurant itself is adorable.”
It was Emily and the many like her that felt the devastation right along with the owners and employees of Harvest on 25th after learning the news of an electrical fire that broke out at the end of April, destroying the kitchen and entryway.
In the immediate aftermath, the future of the little restaurant that was loved by so many looked unclear. Co-owner Juanita Barrientos said: “The first thought for me was my employees and the devastation they were feeling. Our team is very much a family. We have all worked tremendously hard just to see it in flames. It was tragic. Especially coming out of the pandemic.”
In an effort to keep her and co-owner Tull’s dream going, the pair started a GoFundMe in hopes of raising enough money to cover the cost of damages. What they didn’t expect was to immediately raise $20,000 — a testament to the support locals have to the place serving food not only good for the body, but good for the soul.
Barrientos touched on her overwhelming appreciation, stating: “The response to the GoFundMe was an amazing surprise. I underestimated how special Harvest on 25th is to this community, and what a positive impact it makes on people’s lives. The love and support was overwhelming and humbling. We are incredibly thankful.”
On top of the financial support from the community, other local businesses around Waco stepped up to support in other ways. An outpouring of messages flooded the comments section of the post that announced the fire on Instagram.
Businesses such as Fabled Bookshop, Milk Bottle Cookies, Oh My Juice, and the Sweet Station were just a few that shared their sympathy and well wishes with the restaurant. Restaurants such as Revival Eastside Eatery, Milo, Dichotomy, Sloanes, Pinewood, Waco Axe, and Southern Roots Brewing Co. have even been so generous, with a few offering space for pop-up dinners and some even dedicating a portion of their sales to raise money for the business.
Currently, Harvest on 25th is operating out of a commissary kitchen that generously offered the space to serve food out of. Barrientos and Tull are grateful to be able to keep their business running and keep their staff employed, but with the end of the pandemic in sight, convincing people to order take out has proven difficult.
Barrientos humbly touched on this challenge, stating: “The only difficulty has been that we are a little off the beaten path for most people, so it’s easy to forget where we are. Also, people are dining more these days, so it’s a little difficult to promote takeout while the momentum is in the opposite direction after the pandemic — and understandably so!”
Despite these difficulties, the future of Harvest on 25th is bright, with plans to reopen at the end of July. These owners are so grateful to Waco for their support and are ready to be back serving the community in a little over a month.
In the meantime, those who are missing those delicious pancakes or mouthwatering breakfast tacos, don’t fret! Wednesday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. you can still pick up all of your favorites at 1523 Herring Ave. if you order online, and you can even attend a farm to table dinner at Milo June 22. Thank you, Wacotown for supporting local businesses.
Maddie McNamee is a creative writing intern with Act Locally Waco. She is a student-athlete at Baylor University and is pursuing a major in Professional Writing and Rhetoric.
The Act Locally Waco blog publishes posts with a connection to these aspirations for Waco. If you are interested in writing for the Act Locally Waco Blog, please email Ferrell Foster at [email protected].