Act Locally Waco: Friday Update - April 5, 2013

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Ashley Thornton

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Apr 5, 2013, 6:27:35 AM4/5/13

to act-loca...@googlegroups.com, Debra Kelinske, Jennifer Marshall-Higgins, Jones, Lamar M., Rachel Lott, Rebecca Nix, Shirley Cuff

Happy Friday Everybody! (April 5, 2013)

Spring is springing up and that means beautiful blue skies, bluebonnets, and lots to do on the weekends. This weekend there are so many events one person couldn’t possibly do them all – from “Crawfish Crawling” at MCC, to Farm Day at WHRI, to New Homebuyer Education, to Girl’s Day at the YMCA, to the Boys2Men Conference at Bledsoe Miller -- and much more. It’s a great weekend to get involved in Waco and take advantage of what our city has to offer.

If you know of events and announcements that you think would be of interest to the Act Locally Waco community, please send them to Ash...@actlocallywaco.org. Let’s keep each other informed! Thanks for all you do! – ABT

* Items added new this week are marked in orange *

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Get Support!

· Pre-Registration for Back-to-School Jam – Road to Damascus Back-to-School Jam will be on August 17. The event will help to provide school uniforms, backpacks, and supplies for kids who need them. Entertainment and free food provided! Pre-registration costs $3. You can pre-register at several sites around town. Click here for dates, times and locations for Pre-registration: Back-to-School Jam Flyer and Pre-registration information.

· FREE Resiliency Workshops sponsored by NAMI – These workshops are designed to provide help for regaining stability after major life events. Ideal for anyone who has endured a recent major life event, including but not limited to: deployment, death, job loss, divorce or break-up, or a move. Classes are held on the first Saturday of each month, and will be held at the West Waco Library, 5301 Bosque Blvd. (In the Target shopping center, behind Cotton Patch). You do not have to register for these classes. They are open to the public! For Questions call NAMI Waco at 254-297-7107 or email nami...@gmail.com. <Topics & Schedule>

· Texas Lions Camp applications available – The Waco Founder Lions Club has applications available for one-week camping sessions this summer at the Texas Lions Camp in Kerrville. Five weekly sessions for campers ages 7 to 16 with physical disabilities will begin June 9 through July 7. Two weekly sessions for insulin-dependent campers with Type 1 diabetes, ages 8 to 15, will begin on July 28 and Aug. 4. The camp sessions are offered free of charge to qualifying children in the state of Texas. Applications can be picked up from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays at the club’s office at the Lions Den on North 42nd Street, across from Lion’s Park. For more information, call 776-5341.

· Tick Tock! Tax time is coming – Several sites around town are offering free help with tax preparation. Click here for the list: Free help with Tax preparation.

· Jubilee Theatre Camp Registration Now Open – Stevie Walker-Webb returns for two weeks, June 17- 22, to teach acting to urban children & youth. Results from a national study showed that students with high involvement in the arts, including minority and low-income students, performed better in school and stayed in school longer than students with low involvement. Mission Waco’s performing and visual arts program not only help children, but also the homeless and ex-offenders regain skills and personal competence. Earnings from the Fashion with a Passion Style Show provide scholarships to the Jubilee Theatre Camp and visual arts program for under-resourced children. If you have a child or teen in Waco who wants to enjoy enroll, contact jdor...@missionwaco.org.

· Goodwill expanding GED/ESL programs – In addition to our evening classes, we are now going to be offering morning GED/ESL classes: Tuesdays GED from 9:00-12:00, Thursdays ESL from 9:00-12:00, This schedule begins on Tuesday March 26th. Our GED/ESL evening classes will still be held Tuesday & Thursday evenings from 5:00pm – 8:00pm. For more information contact Meghan Holder by phone at (254) 753-7337 ext. 140 or by email at mho...@hotgoodwill.org. (Posted March 21, 2013)

· The Wheels of Sharing Mobile Food Pantry Schedule – Every 1st Tuesday of the month at 123 E. Texas Ave in Mart, TX. Every 2nd Saturday of the month at Paul Quinn Campus, Waco, TX. Every 3rd Friday of the month at 320 Falls St, Marlin, TX. Every 3rd Tuesday of the month at Texas State Technical College. Mazanec Rd, Waco TX. <MORE> (Posted March 21, 2013)

· GED testing on computer at TSTC – The TSTC Center for Assessment is now offering the GED® test on computer, a brand new way to take today’s test and earn your GED® credential. With the GED® test on computer, success is just clicks away™. Register today at www.GEDcomputer.com. Available to NEW test-takers ONLY. Paper based test scores and computer based test scores cannot be combined. Remember: The GED® test must be taken in person, at an official GED® testing center. <MORE> <Registration instructions> (Posted March 14, 2013)

· Kids Computer Class at East Waco Library – for 3rd through 7th grade students, is offered each month at East Waco Library, 901 Elm Ave., from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. on the third Thursday of each month. The next lessons are: April 18 – Internet Web Sites; May 16 – Using the Online Library Catalog. Please sign up by calling Stacy Phillips at 750-5956 to make a reservation. (Posted March 14, 2013)

· Homework tutors at East and West Waco Libraries – Homework tutors for elementary through middle scholars. East Waco Library, 901 Elm Ave., Tuesdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. West Waco Library, 5301 Bosque Blvd, Thursdays from 5 to 6:30 p.m. For more information about this and other Kid & Youth services at Waco – McLennan County Libraries, visit the webpage: Kids & Youth services at the Library. (Posted March 14, 2013)

· EOAC services by appointment only – Effective immediately EOAC Community Programming will no longer accept walk-in clients. The only exception is if the client’s utility has been disconnected. Clients can call their utility company to request an extension or set up a payment plan. Applications are available at the front desk located at 512 Franklin Ave or online at http://eoacwaco.org/page33.html. Once an application has been completed call 254-756-0954 to schedule an appointment. (Posted March 7, 2013)

· TSTC Continuing Education – Texas State Technical College has launched a new Continuing Education program including dozens of courses. Courses include woodworking, culinary arts, green construction techniques, automobile maintenance, formal and informal business courses and more. For a complete listing of courses, prices, dates and times, visit www.waco.tstc.edu/continuinged. For more information, call 867-3020. (Posted March 7, 2013)

· Caritas senior discount – Caritas Thrift Stores offer a 20 percent discount every Tuesday to shoppers ages 60 and older. The stores, located at 3116 Franklin Ave. and 3016 Bellmead Drive, feature estate sale merchandise, clothing, jewelry, furniture, electronics and household items. For more information, call 753-0125 or 799-0777. (Posted March 7, 2013)

Get involved!

· Take plastic bags to The ReStore – Did you know: Plastic bags make up the majority of marine solid pollution and researchers debate whether they ever fully degrade. You can help us keep them in circulation and out of the landfill by donating them to the Waco ReStore, 1224 Franklin Ave., Waco. We particularly need more in advance of our 50% off sale on April 13. Please drop off whenever we’re open so that we can get more use out of “single-use” bags! Questions? Call us at 254-756-0131 <MORE>

· Donate to the Back-to-School Jam – Road to Damascus Back-to-School Jam will be on August 17. The event will help to provide school uniforms, backpacks, and supplies for kids who need them. Would you like to donate? $20 will buy a child either 4 uniform shirts or 2 pair of pants. Send all donations to Road To Damascus, 5034 Franklin Ave, Waco, Texas 76710 or contact Mia Thomas at (254)548-9982 for more information. <FLYER>

· EOAC Benefit Golf Tournament seeks Sponsors and Teams – The 2013 EOAC Benefit Golf Tournament will be held at Cottonwood Creek Golf Course on June 21. ESPN Central Texas, News Channel 25, and EOAC are requesting the support of you and your business through sponsorships, team registrations, and donations of items for team and individual contests, hole prizes and auction items. Thank you in advance for helping us make this event one of the most successful in our area! For more information regarding sponsorship contact Bobby Deike at (254) 753-0331 Ext 203. Check us out at www.eoacwaco.org! <Details and Sponsorship Information>

· Humane Society needs Foster Parents for Dogs – Humane Society of Central Texas has a need for fosters because many of the shelter’s dogs are at risk of being euthanized. The shelter is seeking individuals who are willing to house the homeless dogs until they are adopted. For more information, email hsctf...@gmail.com or call 754-1454.

· Donate your Car: 1-855-KOMEN-CARS (1-855-566-3622) – Donate your used car, van, truck, motorcycle, boat with a trailer, or recreational vehicle to the Central Texas Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, seven days a week, 24 hours a day. It’s as easy as filling out our online auto donation form. The proceeds from the sale of our donated vehicles will help provide the necessary breast cancer services needed for our underserved men and women in our community. <MORE>

· Pizza Hut Partners in April with Mission Waco … again! – We love their pizza and those who make ‘em! You will, too! Want to justify another delicious pizza? Sure you do, especially when your purchase in April helps Mission Waco gain funds to help us help the poor and marginalized. So do us a favor while you do yourself a favor this April, order their pizza more than ever! We’ll all be happy!

· Family Abuse Center Diaper Shortage – We are currently experiencing a diaper shortage (the larger sizes, especially 4! But also 5, 6 and pull ups)…HELP! Drop off your donations at the Second Chance Thrift Shop, 1412 Sunset in Waco (It’s in the shopping center behind Coco’s Snow Cones on Bosque).

· $5000 matching opportunity for the Ride for Relief fundraiser – World Hunger Relief has received a $5,000 matching grant for the Ride for Relief fundraiser. We have raised $1000 and we really need your help to raise the remaining $4000! To donate or for more information click here: Ride for Relief. Contact Matt Hess if you have questions: ride4...@worldhungerrelief.org or 254-799-5611. (Posted March 28, 2013)

· New “Connect-a-Vet” program for returning veterans needs volunteers – Connect- a – Vet is dedicated to helping veterans transition back into their communities through volunteer service, mentorship, and support. Connect-A-Vet will match a volunteer with a veteran. The volunteer will mentor, train, or supervise the veteran while the veteran volunteers for a local non-profit. According to the National Survey of Giving, Volunteering, and Participating, 28% of surveyed volunteers said their unpaid service helped them obtain a job. For more information contact Susan Copeland at scop...@mclennan.edu. <MORE> (Posted March 28, 2013)

· Save the Date – Caritas Golf Tournament October 25, 2013 – Caritas’ 2nd annual Charity Golf Classic on Friday, October 25, 2013. More detailed information on the event is to be announced soon. (Posted March 28, 2013)

· Keep Waco Beautiful Awards – Keep Waco Beautiful will accept nominations through April 1 for its annual Frances Sturgis Partners In Pride awards. Individuals, businesses, clubs, organizations or schools can submit nominations for beautification projects, cleanup activities, recycling and other efforts completed or participated in between April 1, 2012, and April 1, 2013. For nomination forms or more information, call KWB at 750-5728, visit keepwacobeautiful.com or email sherr...@aol.com. (Posted March 28, 2013)

· Volunteers needed to drive – Friends for Life seeks volunteers to drive clients to appointments. For more information, call 254-772-8100, ext. 110, or email de...@friendsforlife.org. (posted March 15, 2013)

· Road to Damascus Back to School Event – You can be a part! — Road to Damascus is currently coordinating our 2nd Back to School Event to be held on August 17, 2013 at Carver Park Church, 1020 Herring Ave, Waco, Texas. This event will be huge. Our goal is to provide information to the youth and their parents in the East Waco, Bellmead, and Lacy Lakeview areas. We plan to have live music, provide school uniforms, free food, school supplies, backpacks, fun activities for both youth and their parents and so much more. We are currently looking for sponsors to help assist with this event. If your organization would like to have a table at this event, please let us know by April 8 to reserve your spot. Don’t wait! Spots are filling up fast! For more information or to reserve a spot contact Mia Thomas at either 505-402-0199 or 254-548-9982 or by email at mialyn...@yahoo.com. <Sponsor Letter> <Sponsor Opportunities> (Posted March 15, 2013)

· Library Book Sale Donations – The friends of the Waco-McLennan County Library are accepting donations of hardback and paperback books, cd’s, dvd’s, textbooks, magazines for the Nov. 6-10, 2013 Booksale. Donations may be dropped off at any of the library locations. For large pick ups of over 4 boxes, please call 750-5943. for more information, visit: www.wacofriendsofthelibrary.org. (Posted March 14, 2013)

· Family Abuse Center needs Towels - We are completely out of towels. Every family that arrives needs sheets, blankets and towels. So if you’ve been thinking of getting some new ones, or you are just now shopping, pick up some extra towels for us. We love getting new towels or gently used towels! (Wash cloths too.) Drop off your donations at the Second Chance Thrift Shop, 1412 Sunset in Waco (It’s in the shopping center behind Coco’s Snow Cones on Bosque). (posted March 7, 2013)

Get informed!

· Need a little extra help with a course you are taking? Just want to learn something new? Here’s an interesting website – Coursera (www.coursera.org ) is an organization that offers over 200 online college-level (non-credit) courses at no charge. Coursera is a social entrepreneurship company that partners with the top universities in the world to offer courses online for anyone to take, for free. We offer courses in a wide range of topics, spanning the Humanities, Medicine, Biology, Social Sciences, Mathematics, Business, Computer Science, and many others. Whether you’re looking to improve your resume, advance your career, or just learn more and expand your knowledge, we hope there will be multiple courses that you find interesting. Thanks for sharing, Melinda Bandy!

· What’s Happening in Housing? - Check out The City of Waco Housing and Community Development Department’s city channel show “Home is Where OUR Heart is”. This episode, Mike Stone talks about Waco Community Development Corporation can help families buy a home: http://wccc.tv/index.php?DoThis=Single&video=62902645

· Guide to Good Times! – The new City of Waco Good Times Guide! for spring and summer 2013 is hot off the press. Click here for lots of ideas of fun things to do in Waco!: Good Times Guide.

· A podcast all about Waco and why we love it: check out “The Waco Suck” – Oh Waco, how we love you. But it wasn’t always that way. The name for this podcast, “The Waco Suck,” comes from the commonly held experience that Waco sucks for the first year you live here, and then it sucks you in. Co-hosts Wendy Gragg, Craig Nash, and Becky Fogel bring a cumulative total of about 20 years of Waco living. In the first episode we talk to Mike Trozzo the man behind Wacotown, a feel-good civic arts project. Check it out and share it with your friends: The Waco Suck.

· $15 off registration for Chick-fil-A Leadercast – Chick-fil-a Leadercast is a one-day leadership event broadcast live from Atlanta to Waco that exists for one purpose — to help you become the best leader you can be. Hear from a number of world-renown thought leaders including Jack Welch, Andy Stanley, and John C. Maxwell. Join us for a day of personal equipping and growth as we help you become the best leader you can be. To learn more or to register for Leadercast 2013 go to www.LeadercastWaco.com. $15 off for the Act Locally Waco community, the code is “actlocally” (Without spaces). Thanks to Josh Lawson at Antioch Community Restoration Ministry. For more information, call Josh at 254-644-7271 or email us at leaderc...@gmail.com.

· First ever World Hunger Relief Summer Farm Camp! – Come explore the different pieces of the farm at World Hunger Relief’s first Summer Farm Camp! A farm has many different parts that are all very important. Learn about plants and how they grow, food and where it comes from, and how bugs and animals help us. Through hands-on lessons, crafts, cooking, songs, games and activities, campers will have a wonderful week filled with experiential learning. Farm Camp Price: $115/child. Ages: Incoming K-5th graders. Dates: June 24-28, July 8-12, July 15-19. Visit our website at www.worldhungerrelief.org to register. Registration deadline is June 1st! For more information contact Kristi Pereira at kri...@worldhungerrelief.org. <MORE>(Posted March 28, 2013)

· Free 11 X 17 paper, come and get it! – Waco CDC received a donation of over 2 cases of 11X17 paper. They don’t print that much with this size of paper so they are willing to donate it to anyone who will come by their office and pick it up. Address: 1624 Colcord Ave, Waco. For more information email Mike Stone at mi...@wacocdc.org or call (254) 752-4663. (Posted March 28, 2013)

· Junior League of Waco Reactive Funding Grant, Deadline April 22 – The Junior League of Waco is currently accepting proposals for Reactive Funding Grants to support local organizations in projects for 2013-2014. The Junior League of Waco is interested in contributing to nonprofit agencies that will directly impact women, children, and/or families in McLennan County. The application may be found here. The deadline for submission is Monday, April 22nd, 2013. Grants will be awarded in the summer of 2013. This application is separate from the Provisional Project Application. Please direct any questions concerning Reactive Funding Grant to researchand...@juniorleaguewaco.org. <APPLICATION> (Posted March 28, 2013)

· Coming together to Address Family Homelessness – The Family Housing Collaborative will be launching in August at the beginning of the Waco ISD school year. This program will work specifically with families that have a student enrolled in Waco ISD, where there are approximately 1,400 homeless students per year. The Family Housing Collaborative connects the school district, case management providers, housing organizations, and local churches to provide holistic support for participating families. To read more about this upcoming program, click here to check out the the City of Waco Housing & Community Development Newsletter. (Posted March 21, 2013)

· Facebook Guide for Non-Profits – According to Central Texas New Media, the new Facebook nonprofit guide is out! The guide is a collection of best practices to help nonprofits / causes use Facebook and Instagram to tell their stories and connect with supporters. You can find the new best practice guide in our Nonprofit Resource Center, on Non-Profits on Facebook. Grab the new guide today and tell us what you think: https://fb-public.box.com/s/8dxyv66biabfnesvr3jj. (Posted March 21, 2013)

· Downtown is booming! – Have you visited downtown lately? Prepare to be impressed. Check out this map of all the development that has gone on in downtown since 2007: Downtown Development. Want to keep up with what’s happening downtown? Here are two great websites: www.1000friendsofwaco.com and www.chisholmcrossing.com. (Posted March 21, 2013)

· Interesting website for finding resources – www.unemploymentlifeline.com (Posted March 21, 2013)

· Habitat Restore Recycles batteries and more – Did you know the Waco ReStore does more to help our community and our environment than accepting and selling donations? If you have old batteries including handheld tool batteries, cell phones, hearing aids, glasses, or printer cartridges, bring them here! The batteries and cartridges are responsibly recycled rather than leaking in a landfill, the glasses go to Lions Club International’s eye care program, the hearing aids go to the Heart of Texas Sertoma Club who use them to help local hearing impaired children, and the cell phones provide cell phones and minutes for service members stationed abroad. For more information call (254) 756-0131 or email Res...@Wacohabitat.org. (Posted March 14, 2013)

· No Guarantee: Spouses of US citizens and the Naturalization Process – Interesting story about a married couple in Waco. The husband is a US Citizen and his wife is a Legal Permanent Resident (she was undocumented when they married.) The story looks at the common misconception that marrying a US Citizen guarantees citizenship. In fact, Eloisa was denied US Citizenship in early February because she had previously misrepresented her immigration status. Here’s the link from KWBU: http://edge.baylor.edu/media/196206/196206-audio.mp3 . (Posted March 14, 2013)

· Art Exhibit: Understanding Disabilities through Children’s Art – February 23 at 10:00am until June 2 at 5:00pm. Mayborn Museum, 1300 s. University Parks Drive. This art exhibit consisting of thirteen pieces was produced by faculty and students of the Baylor School of Social Work with assistance from VSA Texas, The international Organization on Arts and Disability. The exhibit includes colorful and creative artwork from children around the state of Texas who live with mental, learning or physical challenges, such as ADHD, deafness, dyslexia and autism. Interactive elements in the exhibit include thought-provoking words by the artists as well as a discussion booklet for parents to use to discuss physical and mental health disabilities with their own children. Baylor School of Social Work hopes it creates an opportunity to decrease the stigma children that are differently abled experience. <MORE> (Posted March 14, 2013)

· Check it out – Act Locally Waco is now listed on Chisholm Crossing Volunteer page http://www.chisholmcrossing.com/volunteer/ (Posted March 7, 2013)

· Check it out – Look what’s up this month at Mission Waco – For Mission Waco March E-news, click here. (Posted March 7, 2013)

· Annual “No Need Among You” Conference Registration Now Open – Save the dates October 10-12! This year’s conference features Shane Claiborne, Dr. Rita Pierson, Scott Truex and some twenty-five workshop leaders who help Texas churches and organizations learn how to effectively create empowerment-based programs and skills that assist the poor and marginalized. Sponsored by eleven state-wide ministries, including World Vision, Buckner, Texas Baptists, Mission Waco/Mission World, Baylor School of Social Work, Crestview Church of Christ, Waco Baptist Regional Association, City Square, Austin Christian Fellowship, Perpetual Help Home, and Baptist University of the Americas, the Texas area affordable conference continues to grow. Registration and details are available online at www.nnay.org. (Posted March 7, 2013)

· Texas Hunger Initiative Mentioned in New Book – The new documentary A Place at the Table has recently come out about hunger in America. It has been accompanied with a book version of the documentary by the same name. THI is in the book version. Here is the link: A Place at the Table. (Posted March 7, 2013)

Free and fun this month! (See details below)

· April 6 – Waco Family Fun Fest

· April 6 – Spring Farm Day

· April 6 – Boys 2 Men Conference

· April 7 – Free Sunday at the Mayborn Museum <MORE>

· April 10 – Operation FUN*DAY for Veterans

· April 13 – ART ON ELM

· April 13 – Texas Vintage Base Ball Game

· April 18 – Family Fitness Night

· April 18 – Family Fun Night

· April 21 – Hispanic Heritage Festival

April

April 5 & 6 – CASA rummage sale – Court Appointed Special Advocates of McLennan and Hill counties will have a rummage sale from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 5 & 6 at the Hill County Exhibits Building, located behind the HISD football field, 1180 S. Waco Drive in Hillsboro. Sale items include furniture, clothing, toys, sports equipment, tools, collectibles, antiques, electronics, books and exercise bikes. Boy Scouts Troop 745 will sell barbecue brisket lunch plates each day at 11 a.m. Cost is $6. For sale information, email Karen Leatherwood at casarum...@gmail.com.
April 6 – Low Cost Pet vaccinations – La Vega Veterinary Clinic will conduct a low-cost pet vaccination clinic from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 6 at the Axtell/Leroy Fire Department, 4465 E. Old Axtell Road. Cost is $25 for annual vaccinations or $12 for rabies only. The annual packages includes rabies, distemper and parvo vaccinations for dogs, or rabies and distemper vaccinations for cats. For more information, call 799-0808
April 6 – NAMI Resiliency class – The National Alliance on Mental Illness-Waco will present its monthly resiliency class at 10:30 a.m. April 6 at the West Waco Library, 5301 Bosque Blvd. This month’s topic will be “Expressing Gratitude and Its Importance for Resiliency in Life.” For more information, call 297-7107.
April 6 – Health day – To celebrate National Public Health Week, the Baylor Multicultural Association of Pre-Health Students, the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District and Live Well Waco are sponsoring a community health day from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Caesar Chavez Middle School, 2600 Bagby Ave. The free event will feature heart-healthy recipe demonstrations, children’s games, door prizes, giveaways and a free lunch, while supplies last. Attendees also can learn about chronic disease prevention and management at a doctor question-and-answer session.

· April 5 & 6 – Texas State Technical College College Preview and Open House – Time: from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will include tours of TSTC’s high-tech programs, information about housing and financing, and shuttle service to any of the college’s instructional programs, ranging from air traffic control and avionics, to culinary arts, drafting and design, welding and more. It also will include a free light breakfast from 9 to 10 a.m. April 6, and a free lunch April 5 and 6. For more information, call Autumn Outlaw at 867-2026, email autumn...@tstc.edu or visit www.waco.tstc.edu/visit/visitcolprev .

· April 6 – Waco Links, Inc. “39 and Holding” Luncheon, 2013 – The Waco Chapter of The Links, Inc. will sponsor its 2012 luncheon at 11:30 a.m., at McLennan Community College. The event will include an afternoon of great entertainment, music and art. A variety show will feature entertainment from Links, Inc. members, the Heavenly Voices and other community members. Tickets are $35 each, and proceeds will benefit community outreach programs such as Fitness Inspiring Teens and the Susan G. Komen and the Circle of Promise. The Links, Incorporated founded in 1946, is one of the oldest and largest volunteer service organizations of women who are committed to enriching, sustaining and ensuring the culture and economic survival of African Americans and other persons of African ancestry. The Waco Chapter of the Links, Inc, was founded in 1974 and is proud to be a contributing member of the Central Texas community. <MORE>

· April 6 – The RED program – Time & Place: Hillcrest Baptist Medical Center, 9am-2pm. The RED Program is a free, one day class that empowers teens (14-20) and their parents to drive safe, secure, and sober. Includes discussion-based sessions and a hospital tour! The program also counts for 8 hours of community service. Contact Tori Lineberry at (254) 202-6531 or tline...@hillcrest.net for more information!

· April 6 – Crawfish Boil and Crawfish Crawl – The hills are steep and the Cajun cuisine is hot on April 6th at McLennan Community College (Bosque River Stage) located at 1400 College Drive, Waco TX 76708. 1K fun run begins at 8:15 am, 5k Crawfish Crawl at 8:30am (age group winners receive an award), and the Crawfish Boil begins 10 am until 2 pm. Great Cajun food, family fun, cake walk, and more. Proceeds benefit MCC student organizations. <FLYER> <MORE>

· April 6 – Girl’s Day 2013 at Doris Miller Family Y – For girls 9 & up, Theme: Beautiful Inside & Out. Featuring games, pampering, etiquette, goal setting, self-esteem builders, fun, food and prizes! Only $5 per girl! For more information contact CaSaundra by phone at 254-752-1605 or by email at casaundr...@ymcactx.org <MORE>

· April 6 – Spring Farm Day – Join us at World Hunger Relief, Inc. for our Spring Farm Day 2013! Saturday, April 6th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free activities for the whole family, with farm-fresh food available for purchase. We will also hold our 2nd annual Ride for Relief fundraising bike ride. Visit our website for more details: www.worldhungerrelief.org . Questions? Contact in...@worldhungerrelief.org or 254-799-5611.

· April 6 – Ride for Relief 5K Bike Ride – You and your friends and family are invited to create a team and join in a 5K (3.1 mile) bike ride to help raise support for our work in alleviating hunger. Families or teams will create their own webpage to help spread the word about their efforts to support WHRI’s work to alleviate hunger here and around the world. Questions? Call 254-799-5611. <MORE>

· April 6 – The “New Year, New You” Wellness Journey Reveal party – 2-3 p.m. JC Penney’s Court in the Richalnd Mall. Join the Live Well Waco team as they reveal the before and after transformations of the New Year, New You “Super 6” wellness challenge contestants. Read the contestant’s inspiring stores and follow their progress at www.LiveWellWaco.owrdpress.com. For more information, call 750-5439 or visit www.liveWellWaco.com.

· April 6 – Boots on the Brazos fundraiser for The Arc of McLennan County- 7 to 11:30 p.m. April 6 in the Brazos Room at the Waco Convention Center, 100 Washington Ave. Tickets cost $90. Table sponsorships also are available. Proceeds will be used to support The Arc’s after-school and summer day camp for children with special needs and autism. For tickets or more information, call 756-7491.

· April 6 – FREE Homebuyer Education Workshop – NeighborWorks Waco will be hosting a FREE Homebuyer Education Workshop on from 9AM – 5PM at Toliver Chapel Baptist Church located at 1402 Elm Ave. The event is free and open to the public and will have complimentary breakfast and lunch for all who attend. There will also be raffle drawings for gift cards from various local restaurants. (*must be present to win prizes.) Please RSVP by April 4th at (254) 752-1647 or hjen...@nw-waco.org. See you there! <FLYER>

· April 6 – Boys 2 Men Conference – Bledsoe –Miller Community Center, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Young men ages 10 – 17 will have the opportunity to learn about life on this fun day that will combine fun activities and words of wisdom from local business men and community leaders who represent positive role models. The event is free, and breakfast and lunch will be provided. For more information, call 750-8684.

· April 7 – Free Sunday at the Mayborn Museum <MORE>

· April 7 – 2013 Walk for Autism – April is Autism Awareness Month in the United States, and April 2 has been declared World Autism Awareness Day by the United Nations. On that same day, Mayor Malcolm Duncan and the City Council will proclaim April as Autism Awareness Month in Waco. To “kick off” (please pardon the pun!) Autism Awareness Month, we’re having our annual Walk for Autism at Baylor University’s Fountain Mall from 2-5 pm. More than a typical “Walk”, it’s more like a festival: family-friendly, with music, lots of games and activity booths for kids of all ages, and a Resource Fair with area agencies and providers that serve families affected by autism. We’re walking to raise awareness and funds, and to celebrate the potential of our kids/youth/adults and their families … we’re walking on that one day in support of all those who walk with autism every day of their lives. For more information contact waco...@gmail.com or visit www.hotautismnetwork.org

· April 9 – Baylor Law School Dream Act Clinic – Get help filling out DACA paperwork. Services are offered for free but an appointment must be made to receive help. Appointments can be made by calling 888-497-0018 or emailing immigrat...@baylor.edu. People are eligible for DACA help if they were less than 31 years old when the policy was announced in June, came to the United States before age 16; and have continuously lived in the country since June 2007. Eligible applicants must also be in school, have graduated from high school or have a GED or been honorably discharged from the military. In addition, people must be free of convictions for a felony, a significant misdemeanor or three or more other misdemeanors.

· April 9 – Veterans Coalition Meeting – Time: 2-4 pm. Location: MHMR Waco, 110 S. 12th Street. We will hear about opportunities for folks serving veterans. Remember all sectors of our community are welcome! For more information email vetzc...@gmail.com.

· April 10 – Operation FUN*DAY for Veterans – FREE for Veterans. Meet at the Veteran’s One Stop, 2220 Austin Ave., at 11 am. Transportation & Box lunch provided. Fellow vets can share a day of fishing, horse tending and arrowhead hunting – and the company of new friends – at a ranch about 35 miles East of Waco. The ranch is the location of The Delia Home – A place of Hope… The Delia Home is a newly formed, nonprofit organization, dedicated to helping homeless and/or disabled American Veterans get off the street by providing transitional housing and support. Find out more about the Delia Home or how you can join the FUN*DAY fun! Call Howard or Mark at 254.344.2301.

· April 11 – 3 Spoons Yogurt Fundraiser for Baylor Habitat – The New 3 Spoons in Hewitt (1201 Hewitt Drive, #211 B) will donate 25% of all sales on April 11th to the Baylor Habitat for Humanity Campus Chapter. The donations will help fund the home the Baylor Campus Chapter is supporting. In order for the value of a sale to be added to Baylor Habitat’s total, you MUST mention to the Spoons cashier that you are associated with Baylor Habitat. Associated receipts will then be marked as being valid towards your group’s total sales.

· April 11 – Friends of Peace Movie Night: How to Survive a Plague – Time: 6:00 PM. Location: Poppa Rollo’s Pizza, 703 North Valley Mills. The 2012 film “How to Survive a Plague” is the story of the brave young men and women who successfully reversed the tide of the AIDS epidemic. It details how an improbable group of activists infiltrated government agencies and the pharmaceutical industry, helping to identify promising new medications and treatments–and thereby saved their own lives and ended the darkest days of the AIDS plague. Academy Award nominee for Best Documentary, Winner New York Film Critics Circle Award. Free pizza buffet. For more information contact Alan at ano...@aol.com.

· April 11 – Family Abuse Awareness Night – Time: 8:00pm until 9:00pm. Location: Common Grounds, 1123 S. 8th Street. Join Family Abuse Center at Common Grounds for an Awareness Event featuring a short film and a panel of local professionals experienced in the domestic violence field. Anyone and everyone is welcome! The event is FREE and we will have a booth with information available to the public and professionals available to answer any questions! For more information contact Ashley Herridge by email at Ashley....@familyabusecenter.org.

· April 11 – Dealing with Anger Parent Education Class – Crestview Elementary Library, 1120 New Road, Waco. 5pm Free refreshments and children’s book as we talk about how to deal with anger and bullying. Available to all families with a child in WISD. For more information contact Hannah Kuhl by phone at 254-753-1362 ext. 2053 or by email at hk...@wacoisd.org .

· April 11 – Nutrition and Healthy Living Series- Time: 6:00pm. Admission: FREE. Address: 925 North 9th Street.This is a three-class series being taught on April 11, May 9, and June 13. Topics will include Planning for Good Health, The Importance of Breakfast, and Reading Labels. For more information, contact the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service in McLennan County at 254-757-5180.

· April 11 – McLennan County Hunger Coalition meeting. All meetings will be held at Caritas of Waco 300 South 15th Street every second Thursday of each month starting at 11:45am. Memberships open to all individuals and agencies during the year. For more information please visit the website: www.mclennanhunger.org Any questions please contact Esther Morales at foodou...@grandecom.net or 254-753-3545. <2013 Calendar>

· April 11 – Casa, Cupcakes & Coffee – An informal informational event where you can learn how to get involved with CASA. CASA of McLennan and Hill Counties recruits, trains and empowers everyday community members to advocate for abused and neglected children in faster care. CASA volunteers are people like you. They’re teachers, business people, retirees, stay at home moms, grandparents, college students. Come learn more. Join us for cupcakes! 5:30 – 6:30, 2223 Austin Ave, Suite D. For more information contact Mindi Masten at 254-304-7982. <MORE>

· April 12 – Elder Care Forum – Presented by Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service. Topics will include Stress and the Brain, Insurance and Medicare, Housing Options, Nutrition and Aging, Legal Issues among others. CEUs available. <Brochure and Registration>

· April 12 – End Bullying in Schools Event – Time: 5-9 p.m. Location: South Waco Recreation Center, 2815 Speight, Waco. Join us for this family fun event as we bring awareness to an issue affecting children in schools nationwide, including our very own community. Lots of activities for kids: basketball tournament, soccer game, softball tips, budget fashion show, kickball, self-defense presentation, bullying video followed by Q&A, Zumba Presentation. For more information contact your host, Edwardo Moreno by phone at 254-498-9448 or by email at edwar...@yahoo.com. <FLYER>

· April 13 – Earth Day Celebration at Habitat ReStore — Waco Habitat for Humanity ReStore will be celebrating Earth Day a little early by having our biannual 50% off sale on Saturday, April 13, from 9am to 3pm. All our materials are donated, and our proceeds go to fund Waco Habitat. <MORE>

· April 13 – Baylor Steppin’ Out – Steppin’ Out is a day of service where Baylor students help individuals, churches, and agencies with yard work, cleaning, trash pick-up, and more! The Spring event will take place on April 13 from 11 – 3pm with a following community-wide Block Party at Dewey Park from 2-5pm. If you or somebody you know would like help with these tasks, register at http://www.baylor.edu/engage/ or call 254.710.3199. If your organization could use some help, contact Randall Fowler by email at Randall...@baylor.edu.

· April 13 – March of Dimes’ Heart of Texas March for Babies on Saturday – The event brings together community members from Waco, Temple, and Killeen to walk and raise money to support lifesaving research and programs to save babies born prematurely or with birth defects. March for Babies has raised an incredible $2.6 million since 1970, with more than 7 million people around the nation who participate, donate, and/or sponsor. Time: 9:00AM, Registration Time: 8:00AM. Location: Governor Bill and Vara Daniels Historic Village, Mayborn Museum – Baylor University, 1300 South University Parks Drive, Waco, TX. Sign up free of charge at www.MarchForBabies.org – walk as an individual or as part of a team. For more information, call (254) 741-1025 or email BGossS...@marchofdimes.com.

· April 13 – Keep Waco Beautiful Neighborhood Cleanup Day – Keep Waco Beautiful’s Spring Neighborhood Cleanup Day is scheduled for Saturday, April 13th. Local Neighborhood Associations are encouraged to host cleanups that day! Requests for roll-offs and supplies, including gloves and trash bags can be made to Keep Waco Beautiful by calling 750-5728 or emailing sherr...@aol.com by April 5th. Baylor Steppin’ Out will have students available to assist in neighborhood efforts from 10am – 3pm. Neighborhood Associations should register volunteer needs for student workers online at http://www.baylor.edu/engage/index.php?id=86535 . No active Neighborhood Association in your Waco neighborhood? Contact Keep Waco Beautiful for help planning your local cleanup! For more information visit the website: www.keepwacobeautiful.com and click on “News & Events.”

· April 13 – Citizens on Patrol Training Session – The next Citizens on Patrol Training Session begins on April 13. The training will be from 8 a.m. to noon in the training room at the Waco Police Departmetn (721 N. 4th street). The deadline for applications is April 5. Citizens on Patrol is a community policing program sponsored by the Waco Police Department. The purpose of the program is to enlist private citizens to volunteer time to actively patrol their communities, to listen, watch and report suspicious and/or criminal activity to the appropriate authorities. Citizens will be provided with training, equipment and identification. Fill out the online application at www.waco-texas.com/police. Contact WPD’s Community Outreach for information at 750-1761.

· April 13 – ART ON ELM – Saturday, April 13th. 10am-3pm. At the corner of Elm Ave. and Dallas St. A special art exhibition and community event featuring local artists, musicians, children’s activities and craft & food vendors. Come to admire the art; stay to enjoy the rest! A community collaborative event brought to you by NeighborWorks Waco. For more information visit us at www.artonelmavenue.com or on facebook at www.facebook.com/artonelmavenue. <FLYER>

· April 13 – Big Brother’s Big Sister’s Bowl for Kid’s Sake – Start Something today! Partnering with Big Brothers Big Sisters through Bowl for Kids’ Sake makes a positive, long-lasting impact on children in your community. Whether you start a team, become a corporate sponsor or make a donation, your efforts ensure that more Bigs and Littles can be paired up, more friendships can begin and improved outlooks on life can be started. For more information call 888-887-BIGS. <MORE>

· April 13 – Texas Vintage Base Ball Game – Time: 11:00am – 1:30pm, Location: SW Regional Little League – Norcross Stadium: 3700 South University Parks Drive, Waco. Come see the Texas Vintage Base Ball League play ball! Dressed in 1890s uniforms and playing by 1890s rules, this game will be a crowd pleaser. FREE to the public. Concessions will be available for purchase at affordable prices, or you can bring in your own coolers. Just like the Ballpark in Arlington, glass bottles are not allowed. Bleachers are available, but you might want to bring something to make them more comfortable. For further information and questions, please call the HWF office at 753-5166. <MORE>

· April 13 – One by One Mentor Training – Interested in mentoring a new or expectant mom? – We NEED you…to meet with a mom one-on-one, scrapbook for new baby, and be a friend! Saturday, 9-4pm, April 13th , One by One Ministries Mentor Training at Care Net Pregnancy Center, 4700 W. Waco Drive. Email la...@carenetofcentraltexas.org or call 254.772.8270 to sign up today!

· April 14 – Ink 4 Awareness Autism Awareness event – Time:1:00pm until 5:00pm. Location: Infamous Ink Tattoo’s & Body Piercings, 933 Lake Air Drive, Waco. Different, Knot Less and Infamous Ink are teaming up to spread awareness, raise money to provide scholarship for children with autism to attend summer camp, and have a great time! Select tattoos, including a variety of Autism Awareness tattoos will be available at the event for only $30! There will also be live music provided by Justin Lewis and Chris Perry, henna tattoos, temporary tattoos and face painting for the kids, a jumpy house, food, and lots of other great activities for kids and adults going on all afternoon! Come support this great cause and have a lot of fun in the process! 100% of the money collected goes directly to the scholarships! Infamous Ink will also continue raising awareness throughout the ENTIRE month of April by giving you 20% off of ANY autism related tattoo! For more information call (254) 757-1903 or email infamou...@yahoo.com.

· April 16 – Talitha Koum’s 10th Birthday Party! – Join us from 4:00 to 5:30pm for a Greater Waco Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting in celebration of ten years of community support and Talitha Koum’s recent facility enhancements. Bring your families for an interactive open house with fun activities, birthday cake and refreshments! Facility located at the corner of 13th and Clay at 1311 Clay Avenue. For more information email Lauren Serafy at lse...@talithakoum.org. <MORE>

· April 17 – 1000 Friends of Waco Monthly Roundtable – Time: 10:00 AM TO 11:00 AM. Location: Greater Waco Chamber, Cooper Room, 101 S. 3rd Street, Waco. This monthly meeting series includes updates from various stakeholders working in the greater downtown area including: the City of Waco, the Downtown Merchants Association, the Public Improvement District and the Greater Waco Chamber’s Urban Development Program among others. If you have further questions, please email me. Chris McGowan Director of Urban Development by email at cmcg...@wacochamber.com or by phone at (254) 757-5624. <MORE>

· April 18 – Nonprofit Network: Coaching Up- the Magic of Topgrading – Time: 8:00 am – 9:45 am. Location: Texas Life Annex, 1000 Washington Avenue , Waco. Topgrading is a method that revolutionizes recruiting and managing employees for improved revenue and profit growth. This month’s presentation identifies specific methods and actions managers can use to improve ‘B’ and ‘C’ employee performance to an ‘A’ level. RSVP’s are appreciated! To do so, please contact Karen Aho at the Cooper Foundation at ka...@cooperfdn.org .

· April 18 – Family Fitness Night – JH Hines Gym, 301 Garrison Street, Waco. 5pm. Join us as we Zumba, a fun latin dance workout, our way to fitness! Available to all families with a child in WISD. For more information contact Hannah Kuhl by phone at 254-753-1362 ext. 2053 or by email at hk...@wacoisd.org.

· April 18 – Family Fun Night – South Waco Elementary Cafeteria, 2104 Gurley Lane, Waco. 5pm. Preparing for school to be out? Join us as we make fun Summer crafts that are sure to keep up busy all summer! Available to all families with a child in WISD. For more information contact Hannah Kuhl by phone at 254-753-1362 ext. 2053 or by email at hk...@wacoisd.org.

· April 18 – Nonprofit Network: Behavior-Based Interview Techniques – 8:00 am, Texas Life Annex, 1000 Washington Avenue , Waco. The Nonprofit Network is a monthly gathering of area nonprofit agencies. The FREE meetings, which are hosted by The Cooper Foundation, provide an opportunity for networking, peer learning and capacity building. RSVP’s are appreciated! To do so, please contact Karen Aho at the Cooper Foundation at ka...@cooperfdn.org.

· April 18 – thIncspace grand opening – 3:45-5,801 Washington Ave Suite #100. The Greater Waco Chamber of commerce and its partners have developed thInc Space. Located on the first floor of 801 Washington Avenue in downtown Waco thInc Space is part incubator, part community gathering place, and part professional support network for creative start-ups. thInc Space will also be new headquarters for the Baylor Accelerated Ventures program and AV businesses. Additionally, the Chamber and its partners are actively looking for creative start-up business in this community and others to grow and prosper from idea to reality in thInc Space. <MORE>

· April 19 – 17th Annual Central Texas One Day Conference, “Moving Forward: Effective Ways to Reach Our Youth” hosted by Youth Connection, Inc. – Place: McLennan Community College Conference Center, 4601 North 19th Street, Waco, Texas. Cost: $75 ($20 student fee with current Student ID) covers conference fee, lunch and program materials. This conference will feature several speakers including Dr. Ray Guarendi, a father, and clinical psychologist who specializes in parenting and childhood problems. He has been a guest on numerous national, regional and local television and radio shows…in over 40 states and in Canada including four appearances on OPRAH. CE Credits will be available for an additional charge of $10. This conference is approved for social workers, licensed professional counselors, nurses, psychologists and any other group that will accept this conference as CE for that individual. For more information contact Carolyn Nichols by email at CNIC...@hillcrest.net or by phone at 254-202-8480. <MORE>

· April 20 – Health Fair and Healthy Soul Food Cooking Demonstration – Time: 9:00am until 12:00pm. Location: Carver Park Baptist Church, 1020 E Herring Ave, Waco. African Americans are the ethnic group with the highest risk for health related issues like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, etc. Please participate in a health fair and healthy soul food cooking demonstration to begin to break the barriers for some of these issues and improve overall quality of life in African Americans in the Waco Community. Free screenings will include: Blood Pressure Checks, Blood-Glucose screenings, BMI. Last, but not least there will be a healthy soul food cooking demonstration where you will taste test healthy alternative recipes to your traditional soul food meals. FREE GIVEAWAYS throughout the fair! For more information contact Ramona Curtis by email at Ramona...@baylor.edu.

· April 20 – LIFT Workshop for Low Income Families in Transition – 9:00am – 2:00 pm, in the Fellowship Hall of First Baptist Church of Waco at 5th and Clay (Waco Transit, Route 9). Free child care will be provided. Over 40 agencies plus TSTC, MCC, career counselors, and family budgeting friends will be present to help families. Each attendee will be paired with an advocate to evaluate the attendee’s needs, to walk alongside the attendee, and to develop a plan to help the attendee achieve economic viability and self sufficiency goals. Would you like to be an advocate? E-mail Julie Covington at Julie_c...@baylor.edu. We encourage anyone who has relationship with a family in crisis to invite and walk alongside that family at the workshop as an advocate. <Flyer – English> <Flyer – Spanish> <bookmark>

· April 21 – Hispanic Heritage Festival – 2 to 6 p.m. at McLennan Community College’s Bosque River Stage. Free, but donations accepted for the Hispanic Student Scholarship Fund. Call 299-8668 or email mma...@mclennan.edu . Oline: http://www.mclennan.edu/news/806.html

· April 22 – Central Texas Million March against Child Abuse – On April 22 Americans in over 200 cities and 50 states will gather to raise awareness against child abuse and crimes against our children. For more information contact Mark Miller by phone at 254-292-2316 or email at tere...@aol.com. <MORE>

· April 25 – CRRC Quarterly Meeting: Talking to Kids about Race – Time: 5:30 to 7:30pm, Location: St. Alban’s parish hall, 305 N. 30th Street (park in lot on 29th and Columbus and the parish hall is right there). The program will be presentations from three different families on ideas and experiences with discussing race with children and youth and in teaching young people to treasure and appreciate the oneness of the human race. Dinner is provided by the CRRC board, with donations accepted. This event is open to everyone, but YOU MUST RESERVE A SPACE by calling 836-4599 or emailing Jowe...@egm-tech.com. <FLYER>

· April 23 – Meals & Wheels Volunteer Recognition event – 1:00 – 3:00 pm, Meals & Wheels will be hosting its Volunteer Recognition Event at the Texas Sports Hall of Fame. All Meals & Wheels volunteers are invited to attend. Call 752-0316 for information.

· April 25 – Waco Habitat Application Orientation (English) – Waco Habitat for Humanity makes home ownership possible for low-income persons in need of affordable housing. Applications are available only by attending a community application orientation meeting. 7 PM, Waco Habitat for Humanity office at 220 N 11 Street, Waco. <MORE>

· April 26 – Waco Community Development’s 8th Annual Golf Scramble – Join us again at the Cottonwood Creek Golf Course to support Waco Community Development. Executive Director, Mike Stone, and his staff go above and beyond to help make this tournament a success. All proceeds go to benefit the work they are doing in the Near North Waco Community. <MORE>

· April 27 – Broken Uncut – The Gospel Play, benefitting local scholarships and the Family Abuse Center – Time: 7:00pm. Location: University High School, 3201 S. New Road, Waco. What do you do with an open scar? As time goes on Tyra begins to see the aftermath of unresolved issues that contaminated her happiness. Tyra never dealt with the wound Nathan caused in her heart… Now she’s left with all the Broken pieces! Tyra fights Back!!!! It’s ON!!! Written by: Evangelist Shantay Jones Directed by: Yolanda K. Brown. Presale tickets – $20.00 At the door $25.00 Proceeds to benefit local scholarships. Donations to benefit Family Abuse Center. For more information contact Ramona Curtis by email at Ramona...@baylor.edu. <MORE>

· April 27 – The Human Race Waco, benefitting Care Net – Big fun at Cameron Park! 5K fun run / fund raiser, Dry Tri ( 5K run 3K paddle +-10 K bike on paved road ), Sprint Adventure Race – Extreme (6K run, 5K paddle, 15K mountain Bike) Sprint Adventure Race ( shorter length easeir 5k 3k 10k ). There can hardly be a better place to race. Awesome mountain bike trails , road for the bike legs, scenic paved river side trails for the run and wide open water for the paddle. This is the place to race! Contact Wade Woehrmann at 832-713-2927 or you can go to www.humanracewaco.com for more information.

· April 27 – Child Care Provider Conference. Brought to you by the Texas A&M Agrilife Extension. More details coming soon!

· April 27 – The Second Annual Waco Stiletto Stampede – 10 a.m. at Heritage Square! The Stampede will benefit our Central Texas Affiliate. Registration opens on Feb. 28 which includes a race shirt, a goodie bag from Stiletto Stampede! For more information, visit www.stilettostampede.org.

· April 27 – Donkey Dash 5K and One Mile Walk/Run- American Cancer Society – Time & Place: MCC’s Highlander Ranch 8:00 a.m. – Join us at the beautiful Highlander horse ranch to run or walk either the 5K or the one mile. Put together a Team with your friends, your coworkers, your family and run/walk in honor of someone who has fought the fight with cancer or in honor of someone who has lost that same battle. Celebrate with breakfast tacos and beverages while cheering on other participants. Your finish line will be through a corral of precious miniature donkeys. On the Web: http://www.active.com/5k-race/waco-tx/donkey-dash-5k-and-one-mile-fun-run-walk-2013

· April 27 – Healthy Kids Day 2013 – Doris Miller Family Y Invites you to come be part of Healthy Kids Day 2013. For more information, contact casaundr...@ymcactx.org, or call 752-1605. <MORE>

· April 28 – Join the Pride – The Waco Mayor’s Committee for People with Disabilities, Cameron park Zoo, and more than 20 state and local organizations have joined together to help raise awareness about the special abilities of people with disabilities. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors can attend presentations and get information from the various organizations that serve people with disabilities. For more information call (254) 750-8400 or visit the Zoo Upcoming Events Website.

· April 29 thru May 7 – Early Voting for city of Waco May 11 election – Voting hours will be 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 29 through May 3. Extended hours from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on May 4, 6 & 7. Positions on the city of Waco ballot include: City Council Districts II, IV and V. Main early voting site: McLennan County Elections Adminstration Office Records Building, 214 North Fourth Street, Suite 300, Waco, Texas 76701. Voter registration applications available at City Secretary’s office in City Hall, Waco-McLennan County Libraries, Dept. of Public Safety Office, and the McLennan County Elections Office. For more information, call the city Secretary’s Office at 750-5750 or visit http://www.waco-texas.com/elections.asp.

· April 29 – Act locally Waco Book Club – We will be discussing The Death and Life of the Great American School System: How Testing and Choice Are Undermining Education by Diane Ravitch. The Barnes and Noble website says: “A passionate plea to preserve and renew public education, The Death and Life of the Great American School System is a radical change of heart from one of America’s best-known education experts. Diane Ravitch—former assistant secretary of education and a leader in the drive to create a national curriculum—examines her career in education reform and repudiates positions that she once staunchly advocated. She shows conclusively why the business model is not an appropriate way to improve schools. Using examples from major cities like New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, Denver, and San Diego, Ravitch makes the case that public education today is in peril.” Whether you agree or not, it’s always a great conversation. Join us! For more information RSVP to Ashley_...@baylor.edu.

May

May 1 – Applications due for “World Changers” Repairs – World Changers week will take place July 8th – July 12th. Applications are due by May 1st. We will be doing external repairs on homes this year (No roofs like in the past because of liability issues with the youth who are carrying out the work). To qualify for free external home repairs individuals must: Turn in a completed application, Be a homeowner, Meet the Income Guidelines, Demonstrate need for the repair. Interested parties can fill out an application and either drop it by our office or send it in the mail to: Waco Community Development, 1624 Colcord Avenue, Waco, Texas 76706. Questions? Call 254.235.7358 and ask for Mike Stone or email him at mst...@wacocdc.org . Click here for the application: World Changers Application
May 1 – Central Texas Education Job Fair – Interested in a job in education? Meet with school representatives from Central Texas schools about job opportunities. This job fair is open to administrators, teachers, support staff and anyone wanting a job in the education field. Please bring copies of your resume. <MORE>
May 2 – NAMI Waco presents “Conversations of Hope” — 6 pm at The Texas Ranger Museum Education Center, 100 Texas Ranger Trail (Interstate 35, Exit 335-B) . $15 fee and $5 for students. This year’s keynote speaker is Dr. Diana Wilcox. She will be speaking about her book “Thank God in Advance: A Companion to the Album.” The book chronicles her ongoing recovery from Schizoaffective Disorder and Mild Autism. A musical performance and dessert reception will also take place. To purchase tickets online visit http://conversationsofhope.eventbrite.com/ or you may also call 415-861-9126. TICKETS MUST BE PURCHASED IN ADVANCE. For additional event details please or visit www.namiwaco.com and click on the “Calendar” page. All proceeds go to NAMI and Active Minds. <FLYER>
May 3 – Brazos Nights Cinco de Mayo Fiesta with La Ley 104.1 – Head to downtown Waco for the annual Cinco de Mayo with an authenic blend of music, family fun and taco trucks!The concerts take place from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. Location: Indian Spring Park is located at 100 University Parks Drive across from the Waco Hilton and between Franklin and Washington Ave. Foods like hamburgers, corn dogs and snow cones are available. Beer and wine are sold at the event. Small coolers are welcome, but not glass containers. An ATM is located near the food booths. Free parking is located throughout downtown at City Hall, River Square Center and Heritage Square. <MORE>
May 4 – Triple ‘C’ Car Show Benefiting Waco Habitat for Humanity – 10:00am – 2:00pm, Central Christian Church – Waco, 4901 Lake Shore Drive. The Triple ‘C’ Car Show, benefiting Waco Habitat for Humanity, is an open show for all years, makes & models of cars & trucks. Dash Plaques & Goody Bags to the first 100 entrants. T-Shirts to the first 75 Pre-Registrants Awards, Door Prizes & Raffle Items. Early Bird registration is $25, Day of Show registration is $35 so get your registration and your payment in early. <MORE>
May 4 – Race ONE 5k benefitting Mission Waco – Online registration is now available for Race ONE 5k and 1 mile events on Sat May 4. Starts at Mission Waco’s Jubilee Park and goes through Brook Oaks neighborhood. Only $15 for 5k and $10 for 1 mile. All proceeds benefit Mission Waco. Thanks to Baylor ATO for planning this event! Register at www.active.com – search for “Race ONE” to find the event. Run, walk, push a stroller, pull a wagon, walk your dog — fun day to be out in the neighborhood. Contact: Scott_...@baylor.edu or 970-556-3862 with any questions <Flyer & Registration>
May 4 – First Annual D’ Vine Chocolate Rendezvous benefitting Keep Waco Beautiful – Attention Chocoholics!!! Keep Waco Beautiful is proud to present Waco’s First Annual D’ Vine Chocolate Rendezvous!!! The chocolate festival will be Keep Waco Beautiful’s biggest fundraiser of the year. This year’s event will be held at the Art Center Waco and if you love chocolate, it’s a night you won’t want to miss!!! Come and sample fine chocolates, cakes, pastries and wines while you enjoy live jazz!!! The event will be Saturday, May 4th from 7pm to 10pm. Bring your friends and family and remember to save room for dessert!!! Tickets are $50 per person. For more information visit the website: www.keepwacobeautiful.com and click on “News & Events.”
May 4 – Vision Fiesta: Help, Hope, Connection – Anyone interested in learning about living as independently as possible with vision problems is invited to a free training symposium. Topics like independent living, employment, technology and new research in treatment of eye conditions will address the needs of people with vision loss at any age. Visit exhibits of Local Resources and demonstrations of Helpful products. The American Foundation for the Blind will host the free training symposium on Saturday, May 4 from 12pm – 6 pm. Location: Education Service Center Region 12, 2101 West Loop 340, Waco. For more info contact: Neva Fairchild ne...@afb.net, 214-438-5316. Register Now: Registration.
May 4 – Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum Teacher Appreciation Day – Teachers and staff will receive free admission with an ISD id/badge and their family will receive discounted admissions. We will have information about school and tour programs available in the lobby. For more information call (254) 750-8631, E-mail: in...@texasranger.org or visit www.texasranger.org.
May 5 – Meals & Wheels Sunday Brunch fundraiser – 11:00 – 1:00 pm, Texas Sports Hall of Fame, Sonja Hogg featured speaker. Ticket cost: $60.00 per person. For more information contact Libby Bellinger by email at cts...@aol.com.
May 9 – McLennan County Hunger Coalition meeting. All meetings will be held at Caritas of Waco 300 South 15th Street every second Thursday of each month starting at 11:45am. Memberships open to all individuals and agencies during the year. For more information please visit the website: www.mclennanhunger.org Any questions please contact Esther Morales at foodou...@grandecom.net or 254-753-3545. <2013 Calendar>
May 10 – Chick-fil-A Leadercast – Chick-fil-a Leadercast is a one-day leadership event broadcast live from Atlanta to Waco that exists for one purpose — to help you become the best leader you can be. Hear from a number of world-renown thought leaders including Jack Welch, Andy Stanley, and John C. Maxwell. Join us for a day of personal equipping and growth as we help you become the best leader you can be. To learn more or to register for Leadercast 2013 go to www.LeadercastWaco.com. $15 off for the Act Locally Waco community, the code is “actlocally” (Without spaces). Thanks to Josh Lawson at Antioch Community Restoration Ministry. For more information, call Josh at 254-644-7271 or email us at leaderc...@gmail.com.
May 10 & 11 – Lone Star History Conference – On May 10th and 11th, the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum presents The Lone Star History Conference. This free, two-day event will feature presentations by leading Texas Ranger historians, the historian for the US Marshall Service, the Chief of the Texas Rangers and a Texas Ranger reenactment. RSVP your spot today! For More Information: call (254) 750-8631 or visit www.TexasRanger.org.
May 11 – Financial Literacy Classes Begin at Waco CDC. Weekend classes, two Sundays from 1:00 – 5:00. <MORE>
May 11 – Affordable Housing Fair – 11:am – 2:00pm at Pleasant Olive Missionary Baptist Church, 1600 E. League Street. Learn how to buy your own home, what to do to fix the title to your family home, receive information on Down Payment Assistance programs, sign up for free financial literacy and homebuyer education classes and more! There will also be free food served at the event. It is sponsored by Waco Habitat for Humanity, Waco Community Development, City of Waco – Housing and Community Development, H.O.T. Legal Aid, Home Abstract and Title Company, and NeighborWorks Waco. For more information contact Britt Duke by email at br...@wacohabitat.org. <Flyer>
May 11 – The General Election for the City of Waco, Waco ISD and McLennan Community College. – Positions on the ballot include: City of Waco: Council District II, Council District IV, Council District V; Waco ISD: Trustee Position 4, District 4, Trustee Position 5, District 5; McLennan Community College: Trustee District 5, Trustee District 7. Voter registration applications are available at the City Secretary’s Office in City Hall, the Waco McLennan County Libraries, the Department of Public Safety or the McLennan County Elections Office in the County Records Building. For more information please visit the website: http://www.waco-texas.com/elections.asp.
May 12 – Mother’s Day @ the World Cup Café …reservations requested! – You can take Mom out for some great food and buy her a Fair Trade gift at the same place! Kids meals, too. To guarantee your place and choose menu items, please make reservations. World Cup Café is located at 1321 N. 15th Street, Waco. Call 254.757.1748 to make your reservation.
May 14 – Meals & Wheels Women’s Day – 8:30 am – 1:00 pm, seminar of speakers, style-show, and luncheon. .Celebrating the Power of the Older Woman.. Sul Ross Senior Center, 15th & Waco Drive. Tickets available at all area Senior Centers. For more information contact Libby Bellinger by email at cts...@aol.com.
May 16 – CenTex Tweetup – from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Klassy Glass located at 723 Austin Avenue in downtown Waco. The new media world is growing and Waco needs to become a hot spot! Join the on-going conversation about harnessing digital tools and dealing with the challenges and opportunities that technologies place on our work and personal lives. Non-profits welcome! <MORE>
May 16 – Nonprofit Network: Panel Discussion- Interacting with Media – 8:00 am, Texas Life Annex, Address: 1000 Washington Avenue , Waco. The Nonprofit Network is a monthly gathering of area nonprofit agencies. The FREE meetings, which are hosted by The Cooper Foundation, provide an opportunity for networking, peer learning and capacity building. RSVP’s are appreciated! To do so, please contact Karen Aho at the Cooper Foundation at ka...@cooperfdn.org.
May 16 – BlockFest - South Waco Elementary Gym, 2104 Gurley Lane, Waco.. 8am-2pm. Five stations with different types of blocks are available for you to rotate through with your child during a playtime with the purpose of learning. Available to all families with a child in WISD. For more information contact Hannah Kuhl by phone at 254-753-1362 ext. 2053 or by email at hk...@wacoisd.org.
May 16 – Positive Discipline Parent Education Class – Crestview Elementary Library, 1120 New Road, Waco.. 5pm. Free refreshments and children’s books as we discuss how to discipline in a positive way, a way that works! Available to all families with a child in WISD. For more information contact Hannah Kuhl by phone at 254-753-1362 ext. 2053 or by email at hk...@wacoisd.org.
May 16 – How to Raise a Reader Parent Education Class – South Waco Elementary Library, 2104 Gurley Lane, Waco.. 5pm. How to raise a child that reads, tips you can use, and advice from other parents! Available to all families with a child in WISD. For more information contact Hannah Kuhl by phone at 254-753-1362 ext. 2053 or by email at hk...@wacoisd.org.
May 16 – How to Help with Homework Parent Education Class – JH Hines Library, 301 Garrison Street, Waco. 5pm. Has it been a long time since you’ve done homework yourself? Unsure of how to help your child? Come talk with other parents about what they do and get some tips from an expert! Available to all families with a child in WISD. For more information contact Hannah Kuhl by phone at 254-753-1362 ext. 2053 or by email at hk...@wacoisd.org.
May 17 – Central Texas Young Professionals Summit & Leadership Conference – The Waco Young Professionals, in partnership with the Belton, Killeen and Temple young professional organizations, will be hosting a Central Texas Young Professionals Summit on May 17 at the Waco Convention Center, presented by Hillcrest Baptist Medical Center. Evan Smith, TexasTribune.org will be our Keynote Speaker. Click to view the YP Summit Day Agenda. Contact Marilee Kahler at mar...@marileem.com for more information. <MORE>
May 18 – Paws in the Park benefitting Waco Humane Society – Time: 11am – 2pm. Location: Indian Springs Park. 1-mile “Woof Walk,” Kids and Pets safety lessons, Low-cost vaccinations and micro-chipping, Agility demonstrations and much, much more! Adults $20 – includes goodie bag and T-shirt. Kids $5. Click here to purchase your tickets: Paws in the Park. <Flyer>
May 19 – Bands for the Cure 2013 – Time: 4pm to 10 pm. Location: Fast Eddies, 408 N. Valley Mills Drive. Bands for the Cure is the Central Texas Affiliate’s Race Kick-Off party presented by Fast Eddies. The event is a way for individuals to come out and sign up for the race and hear some great bands! There will be Komen representatives there to help you with any race questions you might have, and to help you get you and your team registered. <MORE>
May 21 – Meals & Wheels Senior Picnic - “Polka Time” – 9:00 – 2:00 pm, games, door prizes, crafts, dancing, polka band, award for best “polka” outfit; Sul Ross Senior Center, 15th & Waco Drive. Tickets available at all area Senior Centers. For more information contact Libby Bellinger by email at cts...@aol.com.
May 23 - Waco Habitat Application Orientation (Spanish) – Waco Habitat for Humanity makes home ownership possible for low-income persons in need of affordable housing. Applications are available only by attending a community application orientation meeting. 7 PM, Waco Habitat for Humanity office at 220 N 11 Street, Waco. <MORE>
May 23 – Family Fun Night – Crestview Elementary, 1120 New Road, Waco.. JH Hines, 301 Garrison Street, Waco.. 5pm. Preparing for school to be out? Join us as we make fun Summer crafts that are sure to keep up busy all summer! Available to all families with a child in WISD. For more information contact Hannah Kuhl by phone at 254-753-1362 ext. 2053 or by email at hk...@wacoisd.org.
May 25 thru 27 – Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum Military Appreciation Weekend. – Active duty personnel, retirees and Veterans will receive free admission to the Museum while their family will receive discounted admissions (with valid id or documentation – medals, service records, photographs are accepted). For more information call (254) 750-8631, E-mail: in...@texasranger.org or visit www.texasranger.org.

June

June 1 – RSVP Volunteer Recognition Event – Celebrating the service work of over 900 senior volunteers that serve in 74+ non-profit organizations in the Heart of Texas region. Lunch, program, entertainment and awards from 12-3 p.m. at “Deering Community Center”, behind St. Louis Catholic Church, 2001 N. 25th Street, Waco. For more information or sponsorship opportunities, call 254-299-8577.
June 13– McLennan County Hunger Coalition meeting. All meetings will be held at Caritas of Waco 300 South 15th Street every second Thursday of each month starting at 11:45am. Memberships open to all individuals and agencies during the year. For more information please visit the website: www.mclennanhunger.org Any questions please contact Esther Morales at foodou...@grandecom.net or 254-753-3545. <2013 Calendar>
June 20 – Financial Literacy Classes Begin at Waco CDC. Thursdays 6:00 – 8:00 pm (6 classes). <MORE>
June 21 – 2013 EOAC Benefit Golf Tournament Hosted by Smoaky, Butch & Paul of ESPN Central Texas’s “You Make the Call.” – 9:00 A.M. Tee Time, 32 Teams, 4 Person Scramble- Adjusted Rules on Some Holes. Registration Deadline- Friday June 14, 2013. Tournament benefits EOAC Programs: Head Start, Early Head Start, Waco Charter School, Community Programming, Child Care Services, and Weatherization Assistance. For more info on the Golf Tournament: Find us on Facebook; Visit www.eoacwaco.org; Or call 254-753-0331 x 203 <Details and Sponsorship Information>
June 27 – Waco Habitat Application Orientation (English) – Waco Habitat for Humanity makes home ownership possible for low-income persons in need of affordable housing. Applications are available only by attending a community application orientation meeting. 7 PM, Waco Habitat for Humanity office at 220 N 11 Street, Waco. <MORE>

In the news…

(All “In the News” articles are from the Waco Trib unless otherwise noted.)

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