Valentine's Day Plans? We Got You!💘

Good morning, Waco! This is the Waco Buzz, the local newsletter that’s like finding extra fries at the bottom of the bag. It’s the little wins that makes your day better.

• Today's weather: 🌧️A cold and wet winter day in Waco.

• Valentine’s Day is Friday - Plan Accordingly

• Former Findery Building Announces Another New Tenant

• Live Music and Events Lineup for Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday 🎶

Let’s get to it!

Buzzworthy News

Valentine’s Day is Friday—Plan Accordingly

If you just realized Valentine’s Day is around the corner, don’t worry—you’re not completely out of luck (yet). Whether you’re planning a romantic evening or trying to make up for forgetting, Waco’s got some solid options. Dance the night away at a Bridgerton-inspired ball, indulge in a four-course dinner at JD’s, or sip cocktails under the stars at Bertie’s rooftop. Just don’t wait too long—reservations are going fast!

Waco Hosts ITA Tennis National Championships 🎾

Some of the best collegiate tennis players in the country are swinging into Waco this weekend for the ITA National Championships. These aren’t just your average student-athletes—some of these players may be gracing Wimbledon courts in the near future. The opening rounds and back draw matches will take place right here in town, proving once again that Waco is becoming a prime destination for world-class sports. So, if you want to see future tennis stars up close (or just feel wildly unathletic by comparison), this is your chance.

New Tenants for Former Findery Building Downtown

Big changes are happening next to the Silos! The former Findery building—already home to Mosaic Makers Collective and Southern Swings Nail & Wine Bar—is adding another exciting tenant: Regus, a flexible coworking space. If you’ve been searching for a place to work that isn’t your couch or a coffee shop with questionable Wi-Fi, this might be your new spot. Regus already has a location in Woodway, but now downtown professionals will have an option right in the heart of Waco. More businesses, more energy, and more places to sip wine while getting your nails done? Sounds like a win to us.

^{_{*Nothing in this section is sponsored. Just good stuff to know about. If something was sponsored we would tell you.}}

Sponsored by Waco Family & Faith International Film Festival

Lights. Camera. Inspiration!

The Waco Family & Faith International Film Festival is back, and this year’s lineup is bigger, bolder, and more inspiring than ever! From thought-provoking indie films to star-studded red carpet moments, this festival is all about celebrating storytelling that unites and uplifts.

Join us February 20-22 for a weekend of powerful films, engaging panel discussions, and unforgettable performances. Whether you're a film buff, a creative spirit, or just love a good story, there’s something for you. Grab tickets here.*

^{_{*Indicates sponsored advertising content}}

@Waco.Buzz

P.S. Tag @Waco.Buzz to get your photos in the Buzz!

CIVIL NEWS

Waco Property Taxes

It’s that time of year when property tax bills start rolling in, and homeowners everywhere collectively sigh. But before you panic and consider moving to the woods, let’s break it down. The City of Waco has tweaked its property tax rate which technically went up by 0.70%, but here’s the kicker—most homeowners will actually pay less than last year. If your home is valued at $100,000, your bill should drop by about $9.76. Hey, that’s at least one fancy coffee, right?

What It Means for You:
If you own a home, your tax bill might look a little different, but for most folks, the change is pretty minor. If you’re the type who likes to double-check the numbers (or if you’re already preparing your protest speech), you can see the full breakdown here.

Big Picture:
Property taxes keep Waco running—paving roads, funding emergency services, and keeping public spaces in shape. This year’s adjustment keeps things moving without a big hit to your wallet. If you still think your home is appraised too high, you can challenge it—because who doesn’t love a good argument over property values? Just head over to McLennan County’s protest page and make your case.

EXTRA BUZZ 

Start Fresh: Bright Smiles by Hewitt Kids Dental 

A healthy smile is the best way to start the year with confidence! Hewitt Kids Dental, led by Dr. Alex Piedra, makes dental visits easy, stress-free, and fun for kids of all ages. From routine checkups to gentle cleanings, their team ensures little smiles stay bright and healthy. Give your child the care they deserve and set them up for a lifetime of great oral health. Schedule an appointment today and see the difference a happy, healthy smile can make! Book a Dental Appointment*

^{_{*Indicates sponsored advertising content}}

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Tuesday

- Mini Black History Museum at Dewey Community Center 9:00 AM | Dewey Community Center
- Cocktails with Jen 5:00 PM | Hemingway’s Watering Hole
- Olympia Coffee Tasting 5:00 PM | Lighthouse Coffee & Wine
- Galentine’s Night Out 5:30 PM | Element Waco | Tickets here
- Housing Needs Assessment Survey Public Input Meetings 6:00 PM | South Waco Community Center
- Beer Garden Yoga 6:30 PM | Brotherwell Brewing
- Books & Brews: Made for You 6:30 PM | Union Hall
- Smarty Pints Trivia 7:00 PM | Southern Roots Brewing Co.
- Fabled Book Club: A Song to Drown Rivers 7:00 PM | Fabled Bookshop & Cafe | Register here
- Booze Clues Tuesday Trivia 7:00 PM | Dancing Bear Pub
- Trivia Night 7:00 PM | Sam's Bar
- Vinyl Night 7:00 PM | Hemingway's Watering Hole
- Adult Pick-Up Roller Hockey 7:00 PM | Skate Waco Bellmead
- Slap Stix Trivia Tuesday 7:30 PM | Freight Bar
- Turn Up the Mic 8:00 PM | Truelove Bar

Wednesday
- The Meetup 9:00 AM | Startup Waco
- Fabled Story-Time 10:30 AM | Fabled Bookshop & Cafe
- Forever Young Valentine’s Dance: An Evening for Seniors 5:00 PM | The Performing Arts Community Center
- Kids Hand Sewing Class 5:30 PM | Greater Waco YMCA | Register here
- Rising: The Hall of Negro Life 5:30 PM | Mayborn Museum Complex
- Wine Wednesday with Stan Wilfong 6:00 PM | Segovia Wine Bar
- Valentine's Cocktail Class 6:30 | Balcones Distilling
- Music Bingo 7:00 PM | Brotherwell Brewing
- Open Mic Night 7:00 PM | Last Chance Bar

Thursday

-Valentines Watercolor Class 5:30 PM | For Keeps Coffee
- KRIS with a K Music Bingo 6:00 AM | Waco Ale Co.
- Glass Giveaway 6:00 PM | Dancing Bear Pub
- Bobby Dean & The Timeless Country Band 7:00 PM | Sul Ross Boot Scootin’ Dance Club
- Bingo Night 7:00 PM | The Will House
- Adult Skate Night 7:00 PM | Skate World Waco
- Slap Stix Music Bingo 7:30 PM | Freight Bar
- Another Band of Gypsys 7:30 PM | Lounge ’93
- Name That Tune Bingo 7:30 PM | Freight Bar
- Waitress: The Musical 7:30 PM | Waco Civic Theatre | Tickets
- TJ Bell & Another Band of Gypsies 7:30 PM | Lounge 93
- Thursday Pool Tournament 8:00 PM | Clicks Billiards
- Open Mic Night 8:00PM | Common Grounds

Sports🐻🐻

Men’s Basketball: The Bears secured a decisive 91-76 victory over UCF on Saturday bringing their record to 15-8.

Women’s Basketball: The 20-5 Lady Bears triumphed over BYU with an 83-71 win on Saturday.

Upcoming Baylor Games & Matches:

🏀 Women's Basketball: Tuesday, February 11 vs. West Virginia | 7 PM | Tickets

⚾ Opening Day Baseball: Friday, February 14 vs Youngstown State | 3 PM | Tickets

⚾ Getterman Classic: All weekend Baylor Softball will be playing against defending national champions the Oklahoma Sooners and Hofstra. Games will be played starting Friday, February 14 at 6:30 PM, throughout the day on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets

🏀 Men's Basketball: Saturday, February 15 vs West Virginia | 7 PM | Tickets

🏀 Women's Basketball: Saturday, February 15 @ Texas Tech | 2 PM | ESPN+

Jobs

Assistant Vice Provost for Career Management
Baylor University is looking for an individual to lead strategic career initiatives that drive student success and industry partnerships. This role shapes career readiness programs, fosters employer connections, and supports Baylor’s mission of excellence. With competitive pay, outstanding benefits, and a chance to impact Waco’s professional landscape, this is an opportunity to lead and grow. If you’re ready to elevate career services at a top university, apply now and be part of something bigger. More info.

Paper and Mill Wastewater Operations Supervisor
Graphic Packaging International is hiring an Operations Supervisor in Waco to oversee fiber receiving, wastewater treatment, and production. This role is about more than compliance—it’s about driving business excellence and growing Waco’s industry. With a salary of $90K-$120K, benefits, and career growth, this is a chance to lead a skilled team and make an impact. More info.

THANKS!

Thanks for reading the Waco Buzz today. If you found something helpful, please share it with your friend who asked for subtitles during the Super Bowl halftime show.