Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: What new high-tech helmets will mean for Waco firefighters’ safety.

And check out Navigating the Music Industry Workshop Series on the Waco Patch calendar

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Tuesday September 29th Patch AM
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Hello Waco! Here's our latest buzz. Let's get into it. ☕️️

Hosting an event in Waco? Let Patch get the word out for you. Post it to the Patch calendar.

In today's newsletter:

  • What new high-tech helmets will mean for Waco firefighters' safety.
  • Why Waco ISD turned to a charter partner to avoid takeover
  • Want a church where bikes replace pews on Sundays?

Also on today's calendar: Waco Downtown Farmers Market and 9 more events.

Today's riddle: What do you call a one-legged Big Foot? 🤔 (Answer below!)

From our Partner
Today's Waco Patch AM is brought to you in part by T-Mobile. After investing billions to light up their network from big cities to small towns, T-Mobile is America's Best Mobile Network in the US according to Ookla Speedtest®. Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence® data 1H 2026. We thank T-Mobile for their support in helping to keep communities like ours connected and for making today's Waco Patch AM possible.
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Weather forecast:

  • Tuesday: Very warm with clouds and sun, with a high of 94 and low of 76 degrees. 🌶 Hot!
  • Wednesday: Breezy with a t-storm or two, temps: high: 93, low: 76.
  • Thursday: Humid with heavy t-storms, with a high of 82 and low of 70 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Waco, TX, Firefighters to Review Hands-Free, High-Tech Thermal Imaging System (firehouse.com) — Waco firefighters are preparing to roll out a new helmet-mounted thermal imaging and augmented reality system, funded by a three-year, $396,000 agreement approved by the Waco City Council. Sixteen units, plus software and training, are expected within 60 days, with full deployment targeted for January to improve navigation, visibility, and safety in dangerous fire conditions.
   

2. Waco ISD chief discusses Third Future deal in statewide panel (wacobridge.org) — Waco ISD Superintendent Tiffany Spicer is defending a controversial partnership with charter operator Third Future Schools as the best way to avoid a state takeover and keep local control of South Waco and Dean Highland elementaries. Speaking on a statewide panel, she detailed enrollment declines, funding pressures, and a new strategic plan, while joining other Texas superintendents in urging lawmakers to boost school funding and listen more to local communities.
   

3. Biker Church Waco opens its doors to the motorcycle community (kxxv.com) — A new biker-focused church is now meeting every Sunday at 5 p.m. at 10424 China Spring Rd in Waco, offering a casual, motorcycle-friendly worship space. Organizers hope to reach riders and others who feel out of place in traditional churches, and they emphasize that everyone from the community is welcome to attend.
   

4. Gov. Abbott directs state board to develop three-year bachelor's degree pathway (kwtx.com) — From Waco, local educators and a Baylor student are weighing in on Gov. Greg Abbott's push for a three-year bachelor's degree pathway that could cut costs by up to 25%. McLennan Community College leaders see promise but raise questions about quality, employer perceptions, and which majors can realistically be compressed without shortchanging students.
   

5. Saving the Soundtrack: The race to preserve music history (kwtx.com) — A Waco-based nonprofit, Texas Music Cafe, is racing to digitize 10,000 hours of historic Texas music performances before aging tapes fail. Their work, along with the Classic Country TV project, aims to safeguard Central Texas and statewide music stories for historians, universities, and fans so future generations understand the roots behind beloved songs.
   

📸 Around Waco

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🗓 Upcoming Events in Waco

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📣 Waco Shout Outs!

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Have we missed something on our calendar? Add an event yourself! As always, before attending confirm event details to ensure accuracy.

💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • I'd like your opinion.
    I am nearly 60 yrs and I was thinking of starting a FB group for the over 50 crowd who want company for outdoor activities. Something that would not… (Nextdoor Park Lake/McFerrin Ave)
  • Do you know me?
    I am at Dallas Animal Services A1299846. I was brought in on 09/26/26. Click on 24petconnect.com/DallasStrayPets to find my photograph for more… (Nextdoor )
  • Chuy's Tex Mex posted a job opening for Janitor/Busser in Waco. Apply here.
  • Tractor Supply Company posted a job opening for Distribution Center Maintenance Tech II (Waco, TX) in Waco. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Waco here.

Ok Waco! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: Hop Squatch! (Thank you Terri R. for sending it in!)
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Submit it here!

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