Baylor News
For generations, Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” has been a staple of holiday traditions. From classic films to stage productions, Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey from miser to redeemed man returns each December, boasting familiar lessons and a sense of warmth. This year, Baylor University added its own twist, bringing the tale to life inside the Carroll Science Hall during Christmas on Fifth with an immersive, walk-through performance that invited visitors to step directly into the story.
Michael Rataj is listed as a guard, but has shifted up the lineup to play center due to injuries. He’s been an indispensable Swiss Army knife for the shorthanded Bears, leading the team in offensive rebounds while chipping in 3.1 assists and 1.4 steals per game.
According to a recent Gallup poll, 47% of U.S. adults are concerned about affording healthcare in 2026, the highest percentage since West Health and Gallup began polling for this measure in 2021.
The cold front came just in time for Christmas on Fifth. Despite rain concerns, Christmas on Fifth continued in full swing, drawing students out of their dorm and families from staying at home. Students said the Christmas spirit was infectious, helping ease stress around finals.
Waco News
The attorney for Bryce Ashley Reed, a former West paramedic who was charged in May for illegal firearm possession, filed for an extension in the plea bargaining deadline, according to an operations clerk at the United States District Courts office in Waco.
Reed, who is out on bail, has a current trial date scheduled for Oct. 15 but Oct. 10 is the final date for Reed and his attorney to enter a plea deal for federal prosecutors to consider.
Many children in McLennan County will go home from school Fridays and not eat a meal until Monday morning at school breakfast. Pack of Hope, a local non-profit organization, is fighting to put an end to such a situation.
“There are over 26,300 children in McLennan County who are eligible for free and reduced lunch,” said Jane Bounds, president and co-founder of Pack of Hope. She said most of these students go all weekend without food.
Texas Planned Parenthood abortion providers and affiliates have filed a joint lawsuit in federal court to block two provisions of a recently passed bill, Texas House Bill 2, which would place certain restrictions on abortion clinics, effective Oct. 29. The case will be heard on Oct. 21.
“We are challenging the provisions of the bill that will have the most immediate and far-reaching impact on women in our community and in our state,” said Natalie Kelinske, media representative for Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas and Waco.
Neighborhoods without a source of healthy food deserve a second look.
That’s the thinking behind a research project Dr. Andy Hogue, director of civic education and community service program, is heading up with his African-American politics class and the Texas Hunger Initiative.
In August, the city of Waco bid adieu to two HEB grocery stores tucked in neighborhoods on either side of Interstate 35.
