Waco Newsbeat

Car Destroyed By Fire On Hwy 190 In Belton Texas

2011-06-17T00:00:00.024-05:00

On Thursday night, on highway 190 in Belton, there was a car fire that caught the attention of hundreds of fellow travelers. The driver of the car was not injured, but the vehicle a Volkswagen Golf was completely destroyed.

The cause of this fire has not been determined as of the writing of this post. In the video below, provided by KWTX-TV Channel 10, it's easy to see that the drive was lucky to escape with no injuries. I can only image the shock and horror that was going through the minds of passing drivers witnessing such a massive inferno.

Fat Ho Burgers - Prices & Menu

Gatesville Woman Dies From Burns Received In House Fire

2011-06-16T00:00:00.015-05:00

Yesterday, I reported that 44-year-old Betty Grecic of Gatesville had been severely burned in a house fire. It is with sadness that I report today that Grecic died from those injuries on Wednesday. Fire officials in Gatesville have not made a finally ruling on what caused the fire at this time.

Grecic's husband was also home at the time of the fire, but he was able to escape without injury. Funeral plans are pending for Betty Grecic. Before the Gatesville Fire Department could put out the fire, the home was completely destroyed.

Fat Ho Burgers - Prices & Menu

Betty Grecic (44) Of Gatesville Badly Burned In Fire

2011-06-15T00:00:00.024-05:00

On Tuesday morning, a house fire in Gatesville badly burned a local resident. 44-year-old Betty Grecic was first treated at a local hospital and then transferred later to Parkland Hospital in Dallas. Grecic's husband was also at home during the fire, but he escaped with no injuries.

Gatesville Fire Department officials said that the fire likely started outside the mobile home where Grecic lived and spread to the front door. Two children also live there, but they were not at home at the time. Investigators are still examining evidence at the scene - before they announce a final cause of the fire.

Fat Ho Burgers - Prices & Menu

Atahualpa Rosas Funeral Scheduled For Wednesday

2011-06-07T00:06:00.001-05:00

While most residence of Waco were celebrating the graduations of friends and family last weekend, one family was mourning the loss of a young man who was suppose to be walking across that stage of graduation, but who drown one day before it occurred. 18-year-old Atahualpa Rosas of Waco, died on Friday night just a few hours before he was set to graduate from high school and only months before he was set to attend Baylor University on a full scholarship.

It's impossible to make sense of such a tragic death, so everyone in the Waco area is walking around in a state of shock at how quickly a strong and healthy young man can die in the waters of Lake Waco. Rosas attended A.J. Moore Academy and was in the top percentage of his class. Funeral services are scheduled for Wednesday. May he rest in peace.

Julie Hays (KWTX Anchor) Has A Baby Girl

2011-05-07T01:12:00.000-05:00

On the 10pm news on KWTX-TV in Waco on Friday night, it was announced that Julie Hays had given birth to a baby girl. The news station showed pictures of the new baby and her mother who has yet to return to work. From almost the beginning, Julie and Channel 10 have shown the journey of Julie Hays as she went through the nine months of her pregnancy. At times, I felt like Julie was being exploited by the TV station for ratings - but she did not seem to be bother by this invasion of her privacy, so who am I to complain.

There are so many negative things going on today that when a new baby comes into this world it does tend to put a smile on even the most jaded faces. I want to congratulate Julie Hays and her husband on their new family member and to also say that the next 18-20 years are going to be one heck of a long, but exciting ride. The cycle of life is something that I have always been interested in and when a new baby comes into this world, the hopes and fears of the parents are interesting to watch. My one and only child is approaching her mid 30's now, but I still remember the date of her birth like it was yesterday.

Enjoyed Vitek's Bar-B-Que Last Weekend

2011-05-02T00:00:00.022-05:00

On Saturday afternoon, my wife and I wondered over near Baylor and enjoyed some great food at Vitek's Bar-B-Que. For a long time, I have had friends tell me how good the food is there - but with other great Bar-B-Que joints closer to where I live, I never tried out Vitek's. That decision on my part was the wrong one, because we both really like the food at Vitek's and plan to visit there again real soon. Another reason why we have not visited Vitek's before is because of their limited hours of operation on the weekends. They close at 4pm on Saturday and don't open at all on Sunday.

A person where my wife works has been telling her for a long time how good the "gut pack" is at Vitek's. So, that is what she order on Saturday afternoon when we visited there. She really like the taste of her food. I, on the other hand, order the two meat combo of sliced brisket and sausage with cheese inside. Both of those selections were fantastic. For my two sides, I ate potato salad and pinto beans. The whole meal was great and the prices was very reasonable, as well. I would highly recommend Vitek's Bar-B-Que in Waco located at 1600 Speight Avenue.

Eric Ernest Damm Arrested For Waco Bank Robbery

2011-04-29T00:00:00.004-05:00

Back on April 22, 2011 - the Compass Bank on Valley Mills Drive in Waco was robbed. Shortly after that robbery, the Waco police department arrested the wrong man for that crime and soon thereafter let him go. However, on Thursday - with assistance from the FBI, another man was arrested for that robbery and hopefully this time the police arrested the right man. Eric Ernest Damm was arrested yesterday and charged with the April 22 robbery of a branch of Compass Bank in Waco.

The arrest of Damm took place in Elm Mott, Texas. Friday morning, Eric Damm was incarcerated in the McLennan County jail. At the present time he has not been offered a bond in this case. The first person who was wrongly arrested for this bank robbery is a man I have known for years and he also did not fit the description given to police of the suspect who robbed the bank. I hope that leaders in the Waco Police Department better train our officers so this type of mistake is not repeated in the future. I also hope that this time the right man is sitting behind bars for the crime.

Waco 97.5 Radio Announcer Darren Taylor Indicted

2011-04-28T01:07:00.000-05:00

In an expected indictment on Wednesday, former Waco morning radio personality Darren Taylor (William Darren Prater) was indicted for failure to stop and render aid in a September 2010 traffic accident he was involve in. Prater was also indicted for intoxication assault, as well. The criminal indictments against Prater involve two separate traffic accidents which occurred within 15 minutes of each other. In the first accident, DJ Darren Taylor allegedly struck a vehicle from behind as the driver attempted to turn into a parking lot. After that traffic accident Prater failed to stop and continued on his way.

A witness to the first accident then began following Prater around the Waco and Hewitt area long enough to write down his licenses plate number. A short time later, Prater was involved in another traffic accident where his truck left the roadway, rolled over and plowed into a bale of hay. Thousands of Central Texas residence use to listen to Darren Taylor on the radio each morning. If convicted, the charges facing Prater in an upcoming trial could result in him spending some serious time in a State of Texas prison. The lady involved in his first accident was seriously injured and required hospitalization.

24-Year-Old Michael Benavidez Killed In Traffic Accident

2011-04-27T23:39:00.000-05:00

In a case of being at the wrong place at the wrong time, 24-year-old Michael Benavidez was killed Wednesday afternoon when two suspects ran from Waco police officers and eventually crashed their vehicle into a Waco City Bus. Numerous other people were injured both in the bus and in other cars that were also impacted by this traffic accident. Benavidez was apparently waiting at a bus stop when the approaching bus was hit by the fleeing suspects. That collision knocked the bus into Benavidez killing him.

Wednesday's death in Waco will once again bring the rules of when a police officer should pursue a fleeing suspect in a high speed chase to the forefront. While most police officers will never want to stop pursuing a fleeing suspect, there are rules already in place that must be followed by Waco police officers. Don't get me wrong, the folks who are really responsible for the death of Michael Benavidez are the two men who were trying to avoid arrest by Waco police. However, I do wonder sometimes if police don't make a situation worse when they turn on their lights and sirens and attempt to stop a motorist at all costs?

Tornado Warning In Waco On Tuesday Night

2011-04-27T01:02:00.000-05:00

Residents of Waco just finished a long night of severe thunderstorms that included, at least, one tornado warning from the national weather service. On Tuesday night, I was at work when the warning sirens began to go off around 8:30pm. Along with the few other folks I was working with, we went to a safe area and waited until the all clear was given over the radio. In western Waco, where I was located, the storm last night contained much more thunder and lightning then the rainfall we need so much.

We are officially in tornado season here in Central Texas, so anything is possible when it comes to the weather. The local Clear Channel radio stations did a great job in providing up to the minute information about the storms on Tuesday night. Where I work, we did not have a television set - so the radio and Internet were our only means of finding out what was happening as those severe storms made their way across the area. Within an hour of these storms causing so much concern, they were gone and business as usual returned. I hope that over the next few weeks a slow rain will visit Waco and help ease some of the drought conditions we find ourselves in right now.

Logan's Roadhouse Restaurant Weekend Specials

2011-04-25T00:59:00.000-05:00

On Easter weekend, my wife and I visited Logan's Roadhouse Restaurant in Waco. More then likely we would have gone there this weekend anyway, but like they often do on holiday weekends - Logan's offered a buy one meal and get one free coupon on Easter Sunday. I learned a long time ago, that when it comes to Waco consumers - nothing will get them to show up in large numbers at an eating establishment more then a buy one/get one free offer. On Sunday, Logan's Roadhouse was busy - but there was no wait to be seated.

I love the taste of the food at Logan's Roadhouse Restaurant, but I must admit that it is the service we get from their excellent waitresses and waiters that keep us coming back. Over the years that we have visited there, my wife and I have got to know many of their regular employees and find them not only young and full of energy - but also extremely motivated and eager to serve the customer. On Sunday, I ate their 12 oz. ribeye steak and it was cooked just right and I did not even need to put steak sauce on it to improve the flavor. I know everyone has their favorite place to eat in Waco and one of mine is Logan's Roadhouse Restaurant located at I-35 and Highway 6 near Best Buy.

Waco Winds Cause Power Outages On Friday

2011-04-23T01:43:00.000-05:00

Once again, the winds blew on Friday in Waco and this time those winds caused more then just property damage. Power crews were out all day and into the night trying to return electricity service back to scores of Central Texas customers. Friday night, my wife and I ate out and even at 9pm - the winds in the central part of Waco were still very strong.

In addition to causing power outages, Waco's high winds on Friday continue to make fire danger one of the top concerns of local leaders. As the weekend gets started, please remember to be careful with fire as no rain is in the forecast. Rusty Garrett said on Friday night that there is a small chance of rain on Monday and we should all hope that his forecast turns into real rainfall next week.

Rapoport MCC Donation For First Generation Students

2011-04-19T22:51:00.000-05:00

One of Waco's wealthiest couples, Bernard and Audre Rapoport, announced on Tuesday the largest single donation ever given to McLennan Community College (MCC). The Bernard and Audre Rapoport Foundation will donate one million dollars over the next several years to help students attend college where there is no family history of collegiate attendance.

For decades the Raoport's have been big donors to scores of Waco causes and this latest gift to MCC just adds to their charitable legacy. I wish more people would donate money to MCC. In my opinion, MCC is one of the best small colleges in the nation and I have no doubt that they will put this large donation to good and proper use.

Space-X Rocket Test Scheduled For Tonight

2011-04-19T13:34:00.000-05:00

It should be an interesting sight when Space-X in McGregor tests one of their new rockets tonight. The last time I remember them conducting such a test, it was front page news in Waco - because the public was not notified. The Waco area should have clear skies tonight, so the noise should not carry as far as it did when we were under heavy cloud cover the last time.

The western part of Waco should be able to see a dark orange glow on the horizon when this test gets underway this evening. Recently, Space-X was granted a large contract to develop rocket engines for NASA and tonight's test will be on one of those new rocket engines. I love the idea of space exploration and also look forward to witnessing tonight's big test.

Kari's Law Problems Could Delay Passage In Austin

2011-04-19T00:22:00.000-05:00

A law that is being debate right now in Austin is named for the late wife of convicted murderer Matt Baker. Put simply, if this law goes into effect - anyone who was ruled died from suicide would have their body autopsied at taxpayers expense. This law is being promoted by the family of Kari Baker and others who firmly believe that her husband almost got away with murder.

The problem in Austin with this new law is not based on the merits, but instead on the thousands of extra dollars the state or local government would be forced to spend on the autopsy of suspected suicide victims. I believe "Kari's Law" makes sense when it comes to catching murderers who make their crimes appear to be suicide. However, I doubt if it will pass during this congressional session in Austin - because of a lack available spending money.

Texas Disaster Declaration Requested After Fire Loses

2011-04-18T22:52:00.000-05:00

Governor Rick Perry has asked President Barack Obama to declare much of the State of Texas a disaster area. This request comes as dozens of wildfires continue to burn around the state and new ones ignite everyday. It is difficult to even go outside in the Waco area without experiencing breathing problems due to the smoke in the air.

On Monday, the wind did not seem to blow as hard as it did over the weekend. Maybe that break in the wind will help firefighters gain the upper hand on all of the grass fires. What is really needed right now more then anything in Texas is a good soaking rain, but sadly nothing like that is in the short term forecast.

75 MPH Speed Limit In Texas A Good Idea?

2011-04-18T01:11:00.001-05:00

It is looking promising that the Texas Legislature will increase the speed limit in the state to 75 MPH in some rural areas. Some folks think this change is a good idea, while others believe it is completely insane. I personally think increasing the speed limit on rural roads is a good idea and I hope this new law goes into effect.

Let's be honest with ourselves and admit that most drivers on I-35 are already driving at speeds of 75 MPH or higher right now. Many older Texans remember well when Washington imposed a national speed limit of 55 miles per hour on everyone a few decades ago in order to save on energy costs. Today as it was in the past - most Texans don't want a uniform speed limit statewide and that is why I believe this law will pass.

Praying For Rain A Popular Topic In Waco

2011-04-18T00:35:00.000-05:00

After a weekend that put most area firefighters into overtime, many resident of Waco are starting to openly pray for rain. Frankly, I think praying for rain is a good idea and while we are at it maybe we should pray that the winds calm down a bit too? I feel terrible that a firefighter in North Central Texas was killed late last week and I was devastated when I heard the news tonight that instead of being killed by the fire - he was instead run over by a large vehicle as he fled the flames.

I grew up in the Texas Panhandle as the son of a cotton farmer. I know all too well about praying for rain, because we use to do that all the time before Dad sold the farm and left the area. Grass and wildfires are so bad right now in Texas, that it might take divine intervention to help get things back to normal.

Grass Fires Continue to Devastate The Waco Area

2011-04-17T23:27:00.001-05:00

It was a windy weekend in and around Waco and when our current dry conditions were put into that mix, many grass fires started and were hard to put out. Not only did Waco see it's fair share of grass fires last weekend, but huge fires continued to burn near the Metroplex just west of Fort Worth.

Then on Sunday, a huge grass fire was spotted near Austin, Texas and at the present time paid and volunteer firefighters are trying to bring that blaze under control. It goes without saying that everyone should be extra careful with anything flammable right now, because even a small fire will grow into a large one because of the high winds.

Large Temple Fire Destroys Recycling Facility

2011-04-15T00:34:00.001-05:00

Late Thursday night, there was a huge fire burning in Temple, Texas. Reports are still coming in, but as of right now - the blaze has consumed a large recycling facility and near-by buildings are also in danger catching fire. According to the KWTX website, all fire stations in the Temple Fire Department have dispatched equipment to fight this fire.

It's still to early to know if anyone has been injured or killed in this fire, but according to witnesses - flames could be seen in many parts of the city. At the present time, members of the Temple Fire Department are trying to stop this hot burning fire from spreading to other buildings in the same area. It could be hours before this massive fire is brought under control.

Goodbye Waco Teachers As School Board Makes Cuts

2011-04-13T23:48:00.000-05:00

As was predicted a few days ago, almost 200 teachers either resigned or were terminate on Wednesday in the Waco ISD. Money or should I say the lack there of has caused Waco ISD and others around the state to search for ways to save money, after the State of Texas has cut back on the funds they normally provide to school districts.

It's frankly sad that short sighted politicians are shortchanging the youth of our state in order to save money. Sadly, the State of Texas is sitting on a "rainy day fund" containing billions of dollars - but Governor Rick Perry refuses to use that money to keep education funded. What in the world is he saving that money for? The economy is in the tank and the last thing anyone wants to see is a new generation of young Texans who will be less educated then they are today.

39-Year-Old Shari Shull Killed In Car Accident

2011-04-13T12:53:00.001-05:00

Tuesday night, there was a one car accident on Highway 144. After drifting off the road, Department of Public Safety (DPS) officials claim, Shari Shull's vehicle overturned and killed her. DPS says that she was not wearing a seat-belt.

Shull's body has been sent to Dallas for an autopsy. The accident happened around 7:30pm on Tuesday night near Walnut Springs Texas. According to DPS reports, Shari Shull was thrown from her vehicle as it overturned resulting in her death.

Fat Ho Burgers Is Waco's Most Popular Place To Eat

2011-04-12T12:44:00.002-05:00

A few weeks ago, I wrote about a new restaurant in Waco called "Fat Ho Burgers". Since that time, thousands of people from all over the USA have traveled here to taste some of their old fashion burger favorites. With menu items like "Supa Fly Ho Burger's", "Fat Chicken Ho Sandwiches" and their huge "Bad Mamajama" burger with bacon - what's not to like about "Fat Ho Burgers"?

Unlike many new restaurants, "Fat Ho Burgers" is still doing a great business at South 11th Street and I-35. Fat Ho Burgers has a telephone number, but I would not recommend you call it right now - because they are too busy serving customers to answer the phone. Since most businesses have been hurt by the current recession, it's nice to see "Fat Ho Burgers" bucking that local and national trend.

Melissa Jones WNBA Might Come Calling

2011-04-11T23:36:00.001-05:00

In a write-up in the Waco Tribune Herald recently, there was a discussion on the prospects of Melissa Jones being drafted to play in the WNBA. According to people close to Jones, she seems to be interested in playing there if a team comes calling. All Baylor Lady Bears fans know and love Melissa Jones and if she wants to play in the WNBA, I hope a team gives her a chance to compete.

As coach Mulkey said many times during the 2011 season, Melissa Jones was the glue that held that great team together and I have no doubt she would do the same thing for a WNBA club as well. The newspaper said that her best shot at a WNBA draft offer might come from the Phoenix Mercury. Good luck, Melissa.

Rusty Garrett Storm Predictions For Early Monday Morning

2011-04-10T23:08:00.000-05:00

A few minutes ago, I watched the 10pm news on Channel 10. Lead weatherman, Rusty Garrett said that some parts of the Waco area could see severe thunderstorm and hail some time during the early morning hours on Monday. At the time of this posting (11pm Sunday), most of the severe weather is located about 60 miles west of Waco - but as the night turns to early morning those storms are expected to continue to move eastward.

It's likely that while you are sleeping Sunday night, you will be awaken by some thunder, heavy rain and even some hail hitting the top of your home. So far, the size of the hail is reported around dime sized - but it could increase to quarter sized before these storms arrive in Waco. It might be a good idea to keep an eye on the weather tonight.

Steven Barker/Gwendolyn Greene Arrested For Kidnapping

2011-04-09T23:09:00.000-05:00

31-year-old Steven Barker and 19-year-old Gwendolyn Greene have been arrested for the kidnapping of 57-year-old Catherine Jackson Greene. In a strange turn of events, Barker and the younger Greene were involved in an automobile accident last week near Copperas Cove. Both were injured and taken to a local hospital. Their car caught fire and later a body was found in the trunk of the car, which has been identified as the older Greene.

According to late news reports on Saturday night, Steven Barker and Gwendolyn Greene allegedly kidnapped Greene's mother and she was in the trunk of their car when the accident occurred. It is not yet clear whether she was killed as a result of the traffic accident or in the fire that followed. Many aspects of this story are still not completely understood. Hopefully, law enforcement will release more details next week when the results of an autopsy are finished.

Waco ISD Cuts 200 Jobs, Mainly Teachers

2011-04-08T23:58:00.000-05:00

It's a bad time to be a teacher as Waco ISD has decided to cut the jobs of 200 teachers in the school district. While this news is terrible for teachers, it is also bad news for Waco students who will be forced to attend classes that are over crowed.

Another thing that angers me is the way politicians in Austin are cheering their no new taxes pledge, when in reality they are just passing the tax burden back down to local communities like Waco - who will be forced to raise property taxes to make up the difference. Politics should be left out of the classrooms in Waco and the rest of the State of Texas.

Zack & Jim Sign New 3-Year-Deal

2011-04-07T22:50:00.001-05:00

According to the Waco Tribune Herald, morning personalities Zack Owen and Jim Cody have inked a new contract with WACO-100, which will keep them on-the-air for another three years. In addition to continuing their work at WACO-100, their morning show on Aggie 96 in College Station will remain as is, as well.

I have always enjoyed listening to Zack & Jim and I'm glad they were able to reach an agreement with Clear Channel to remain on-the-air in Central Texas. I have met both of these fine men several times over the years and to me the charitable work they do for our community should not go unnoticed, either. Thousands of people will now continue to wake up in the morning to the good humor of Zack & Jim on Waco's number one radio station - "Waco-100"

Waco Wildfires Increase Due To High Winds/Dry Conditions

2011-04-06T22:55:00.000-05:00

The danger from wildfires is very real around the Waco area right now. A lack of rainfall and high sustained winds are causing dry underbrush to quickly ignite - if exposed to fire or extreme heat. It's unusual for Central Texas to be this dry during March and April. During the late winter to early spring, there is usually an abundance of rainfall in this area.

The Waco Fire Department and others around Central Texas are urging citizens to be extra careful right now with any outside burning. Burn bans are are in effect in most counties. I grew up in the Amarillo area and I must say that the high winds here the past two weeks more resembles the Texas panhandle then Waco and Central Texas. Be careful with fire.

Tony Sanders Arrested For Murder Of Timothy Smith

2011-04-05T23:48:00.000-05:00

On March 27, 2011 a domestic dispute occurred in Waco. When all the dust settled, 28-year-old Timothy Smith was dead and his accused killer Tony Adell Sanders was found beaten and unresponsive at the same location. According to police and media reports, Sanders and Smith got into an argument and Sanders shot Smith with a handgun.

Later, Smith's uncle beat Sanders with a metal pipe in what police describe as self-defense. At this time, all that is known is that Timothy Smith is dead and Tony Sanders has been arrested for his murder. After spending several days recovering in Hillcrest Medical Center, Sanders was released and then arrested by Waco police. He is current in custody at the McLennan County Jail.

Weed (Pot) Seized In Lorena On Saturday

2011-04-03T14:32:00.001-05:00

On Saturday morning, there was a huge amount of marijuana seized in the City of Lorena. Around 7:30 in the morning, a Department of Public Safety (DPS) trooper stopped a large truck for a traffic violation on Interstate 35 (I-35). Soon thereafter, the trooper felt like something was not right - so he asked to search the truck and after obtaining permission - he discovered almost 2,000 pounds of marijuana inside.

Every day, all types of illegal drugs make their way from Mexico up I-35 through Waco. Only a small amount of those drugs are found and confiscated, while the vast majority of them get to their intended target - which are junior high and high school kids around the United States. Sometimes - a police officer gets a gut feeling that something is wrong after talking to a driver and apparently that is what happened in this case, as well.

Victor Guerrero III A Good Man Who Always Smiled

2011-04-03T01:08:00.002-05:00

Over 20 years ago, I met a good man by the name of Victor Guerrero. At the time I was in my 30's and Victor was in his early 20's. Then, Victor was working at the Golden Fried Chicken restaurant in Hewitt, Texas. Later - the owner of that restaurant Keith Bush changed the name to what most people know today as "Bush's Fried Chicken". The first time I met Victor he was smiling and the last time I saw him before his death he had that same smile on his face.

There are some people in life who make a positive impression on the people around them. Victor was that kind of man and when I learned that he has passed away on Tuesday night at the age of 42, I was completely shocked and deeply saddened. To Victor's family I want to extend my condolences and to also say that Victor was one of the most well liked and respected men in Waco.

Is It Worth The Wait Time To Eat At Fat Ho Burgers?

2011-04-01T14:49:00.002-05:00

Last Saturday afternoon, my wife and I headed over to Fat Ho Burgers to try out the food at Waco's newest restaurant. When we arrived at 2pm, there was a long line of people just waiting to get in the front door. Already very hungry, we decided to leave without eating there. I know a little bit about hype, so I was wondering if the food at Fat Ho Burgers is really that great or is it the name alone that is bring in all those customers?

We are thinking about eating at Fat Ho Burgers this Saturday, but before we stand in line for up to an hour - I was hoping a few of my fellow Waco citizens might offer some feedback about the quality of their food. There is a comment link near the bottom of this page. Please let us and everyone else know what you thought of the food at Fat Ho Burgers. You may remain anonymous or post your name. Help us and others with your feedback.

Violent Crime Rate In Waco Is Out-Of-Control

2011-04-01T02:42:00.004-05:00

Violent crime in Waco is soaring out-of-control as the murder rate here is skyrocketing. No one really knows what is causing murders in Waco to reach historic levels, but everyone would like to see it stopped. It seems like every morning, there is a new report of someone else being murdered in Waco the night before. I have live here since 1983 and still believe Waco is one of the best places to live in the world. However, some parts of town are definitely safer then others.

I'm from the old school, so my primary reason for blame at the jumping Waco crime rate has everything to do with how children are raised at home. There are just too many kids now days who are not taught that killing another human being is not only wrong, but a moral crime against God as well. 30 years ago, when two men had a dispute they could not settle by sitting down and talking it out - a fist fight would start and at the end someone would win. Today in Waco, few people are using their fist to settle disputes - but instead rushing to get a firearm and settle that problem in a permeate and self destructive way.

"Meet Me At The Fat Ho For Lunch" Waco, Texas

2011-03-30T23:37:00.002-05:00

People around Waco have a new saying and it goes something like this: "Meet me at the Fat Ho for lunch". Ten days ago, a 20 something year old young woman started a new hamburger joint in Waco. To make her dream a reality, she sold just about everything of value that she owned. Her dream was to open up a hamburger restaurant and name it "Fat Ho Burgers". As they say in the movies, "the rest was history". Within hours of opening, this young and intelligent business woman was getting attention from the Waco news media and by the end of her first week of operation, people were lined up out the front door of "Fat Ho Burgers" waiting to order one of her hamburgers.

Of course, Waco is in the bible belt and for some folks the very idea that someone would open up a business here that not only offended one segment of the population (folks who are over weight), but a totally different second group who lets say are not filled with wholesome Christian values - caused some to openly ridicule and blast the name of this new business. There were even a few people who teach business as a career who offered to help this new business owner - if she would just change the name of her business to something more mainstream.

Fortunately, she did not listen to those who only see negatives when something new and different comes along and instead she kept her "Fat Ho Burgers" name. On Saturday, my wife and I drove by her restaurant to order a burger or two. However, when we were there at around 2pm, the line waiting to just get in the front door had well over 50 people in it. Over the past ten days, a new saying is being heard all over Waco at lunch time. That saying is not only funny, but it has also turned into one of the best business slogans of 2011. "Meet me at the Fat Ho for lunch". Current wait times to be served at "Fat Ho Burgers" are around one hour and so far thousands of people are willing to hang around that long - just to order one of their famous burgers.

High Speed Police Chase Over, Suspect In Custody

2011-03-30T14:13:00.002-05:00

On Wednesday morning, there was a high speed police chase through several cities in Bell County as a man who stole a leaf blower tried to evade police. As a chase that produced speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour progressed through Nolanville, Killeen and Harker Heights - it eventually ended in a non eventful way when the suspect pulled into a driveway and surrendered to police. There is no word at this time as to why the suspect stole the leaf blower or why he decided to run from the police.

There was a single gunshot fired during this incident. The origional police officer who attempted to stop the man, said the suspect tried to run him over with his car. After which the police officer fired a single shot at the then fleeing suspect. That gunshot did not hit the suspects car and fortunately no one else in the surrounding area was hit by it either. The mentality of criminals is something I have marveled at for most of my life. People who run from the police are almost always caught, so why does the next criminal really believe that they will be more successful at out running the police then the person before them?

When I was a kid, my dad use to tell me that I should never run from the police. He said, "son it doesn't matter how fast your car is, because no vehicle can outrun a police radio". 40 years later, I still remember those wise words from my father. I guess most of these criminals, who believe they can out run a police officer, did not have a wise dad like mine - who explained the facts of life to them. I'm glad no one was injured in the police chase through Bell County this morning.

Melissa Jones In Tears After Baylor Loss To A&M

2011-03-30T02:12:00.001-05:00

Thousands of Baylor fans learned Tuesday night that it is so much better to win then to lose. No one showed that expression of sadness more then did Baylor senior Melissa Jones. It's been a tough month for Melissa, as first an injury caused her to lose the sight in her right eye and then Tuesday night to see her lifelong dream of winning a national NCAA championship slip away forever. For all of the 2011 season, head coach Kim Mulkey has said that Melissa Jones was the glue that held the team together. No truer words have ever been spoken.

Sports competition teaches so much about real life and that is why Jones and the rest of the Baylor Lady Bears team will come out of the defeat against A&M on Tuesday night stronger individuals over time. Right now, it's so hard to put a positive face on the 2011 Baylor Lady Bears season, but in time all players and fans will be able to look back on this season with a sense of pride at what was accomplished. In addition to Melissa Jones, I want to express my pride in head coach Kim Mulkey. Once again - she has made all Baylor fans proud - not only with her coaching skills, but also in the way she keeps bringing a positive image to Baylor University.

There is no way to get over the deep sadness inside all Baylor Lady Bears fans today, but we will live to fight another day. Next year, I feel sorry for the coach or team who takes this fine group of young ladies for granted. Tonight, was the end of the road for senior Melissa Jones and while I'm sure she is sad that her basketball days at Baylor did not end with a national championship. In time, she will always be able to look back at what she accomplished with a team of excellent athletes at Baylor in 2011 and be able to smile with pride. I am so proud of the 2011 Baylor Lady Bears.

Is There An Increase In Violent Crime In Waco?

2011-03-29T14:33:00.001-05:00

Two more people were murdered in Waco last night. That follows another murder Sunday morning. It appears that violent crime is on the rise in Waco and that's not good news. There are some people who blame rising crime rates on the poor economy, but I don't think bad financial times are the reason why murders are increasing in Waco. I do believe that the City of Waco should hire more police officers and put them on the streets in some of our worst neighborhoods. Late last night, it appears two men were murdered on Spring Street by a drive by shooting. On Sunday, that murder was the result of a family fight that spiraled got out-of-control.

It's not just in Waco, but in similar sized cities around the country where the murder rate seems to be climbing. While I do believe that petty crimes such as stealing might be affected by a poor economy, when someone decides to use a gun and murder someone else that has everything to do with personal morality. I also believe that drugs and alcohol play an important role when fights that use to end with a black-eye, now days end up with someone being shot and killed. When you add drug use, low morals and a firearm to the mix in any dispute - you are likely to find someone lying on the ground dead from a gunshot wound.

In some Waco neighborhoods - it is not safe for children or adults to leave their homes after dark. That is a real shame, because many of these neighborhoods were great places to raise a family only a few years ago. Much to my surprise, the City of Waco has been successful revitalizing downtown. Maybe as their next project, they should try and work that same magic on formerly great Waco neighborhoods, that have been taken over by gang-bangers and drug dealers? Waco is still a great place to live and it's a real shame that some residents can't enjoy all that this wonderful city has to offer, simply because they are prisoners in their own homes for half the day.

Growing Number Of Bronchitis Cases In Waco

2011-03-28T14:45:00.001-05:00

Until February, I had never suffer a single case of bronchitis. However, as April approaches - I have caught it two different times and as it turns out I am not alone. Hundreds of Waco residents have found themselves camped out at the doctors office in search of antibiotics to treat bronchitis. During the middle of February, I caught my first case of bronchitis and after a few days of suffering I went to the doctor. The doctor gave me Z-Pack to treat my lung infection and I was better within a few days.

Then, one month later, I felt the same symptom coming back again. This time I have decided to just let my body fight off the infection by itself with the hope that once I have a large enough immunity against bronchitis it won't come back again. During the past month, my wife has become ill with bronchitis too. She went to the same doctor for treatment, but her case of bronchitis is not clearing up as fast as mine did. After thinking about it, maybe the Z-Pack didn't cleared up anything - but instead just knocked down the infection for a short time only to have it come back again once I was finished taking it.

Many friends and coworkers have also come down with a severe cast of bronchitis recently and some of them have said that they too are not prone to suffering from it. I'm not sure what is going on in and around Waco this winter/spring, but I hope all of these bronchitis cases stop pretty soon. I am a terrible patient, because I do not like being sick at all. I feel sorry for the folks who have to be around me during this time - because I know that my mood and choice of words are not well spoken when I am sick. If you have suffered from bronchitis recently - I hope you start to feel better, soon.

Fat Ho Burgers Waco - Prices & Menu

2011-03-27T12:20:00.024-05:00

People from all over the country are talking about Waco's newest restaurant Fat Ho Burgers. Some of the offerings on their menu are listed below. Prices are subject to change.

Supa Fly Ho with cheese (Single Burger Patty) $3.25
Supa Dupa Fly Ho with cheese (Double Burger Patty) $4.25
Supa Fly Ho with bacon & cheese $4.25
Fat Chicken Ho (Chicken Sandwich) $3.50
Bad Mamajama (4 meat, 3 cheese and and bacon) $6.00
Sloopy Ho Brisket $2.99
Toasty Ho (Meat & cheese on toast) $4.00
Summer Sausage Sandwich with cheese $3.00
Grilled Cheese Sandwich $2.00

Fat Ho Burgers address: South 11th Street & I-35 Waco, Texas

Restaurant Success by the Numbers

Waco's Fat Ho Burgers Getting Mixed Reviews

2011-03-26T13:49:00.005-05:00

What goes up must go down and that is what the owner of Waco's Fat Ho Burgers is learning quickly. In the best start of any business in recent memory - Fat Ho Burgers went from nothing on Tuesday, when they opened, to garnering nationwide attention within a matter of hours. However, the new is quickly wearing off of Fat Ho Burgers as some folks who have eaten there say that the food quality is not as good as at other Waco restaurants. For me, the whole beauty of Fat Ho Burgers was never the quality of the food served there, but the unique sounding name that creates interest everywhere.

While some folks have complained about the taste of the food at Fat Ho Burgers, most people I have talked to said the food was just fine and they plan to eat there again sometime next week. Sadly, anytime someone comes up with an idea that no one else has thought of before - there are always a few people around willing and eager to say negative things about it. Frankly, some of the negative comments I have heard this week about Fat Ho Burgers were nothing more than sour grapes from people who wish they would have been the person to come up with this great idea in the first place.

People from all over the State of Texas are traveling to Waco this weekend to taste a Fat Ho Burger for themselves. So far, I have seen news reports about this new Waco restaurant on TV stations in Dallas, Houston and even on the Fox News Channel, nationally. This afternoon, my wife and I plan to visit Fat Ho Burgers and see what all the fuss is about ourselves. The American people love a rags to riches story and right now the owner of Fat Ho Burgers is the talk of the town and beyond because of her new restaurant. You've just got to love America where anything is possible.

Willie Contreras/Leonard Nino Arrested For Nathan Romo Murder

2011-03-26T01:49:00.001-05:00

Lorena Texas high school student Nathan Romo died on March 11th of this year after being shot in the head at a Waco park. Sadly, Romo's death was caused when he gave a friend a ride to that park - because the friend had a dispute with another man. Shortly after arriving at the park, gunfire rang out and one of those bullets struck young Nathan Romo in the head. When it became clear to the family that Romo's brain was no longer functioning - they donated his organs before he was removed from life support systems.

Willie Contreras is 28-years old, while Leonard Trey Nino is only 17. Both suspects in the murder of Nathan Romo were arrested on Friday after warrants for their arrest were issued. It is still not clear why gunshots rang out that March day which killed Romo. Likely the real truth will never be known, but at least Romo's family now has the knowledge that a case is being made against two people prosecutors believe to be responsible for his murder. It's terrible anytime a teenager is killed, but it just seems worse when a death comes at the hands of another, rather than in an auto accident or something else that is more understandable.

Not only is Nathan Romo a hero for telling his parents that he wanted to be an organ donor, but they are heroes too for honoring that request at the worst possible time in their lives. An arrest of suspects in Romo's murder will not bring him back to life, but in our society - the next best thing we have is a justice system that removes murders from our streets. Early indications suggest that one of today's arrested suspects has been cooperating with police, while the other one has not. I hope for the families sake that some real answers will be found as to why their son was shot and killed earlier this month. While those answers will never completely ease their grief, it's certainly better than nothing.

Voter ID In Texas Is The Right Thing To Do

2011-03-25T00:59:00.001-05:00

As Democrats in the Texas Senate tried to find ways to block "Voter ID" from becoming law, it became clear to me that what they were really trying to do was find a way to keep illegal people voting in elections in Texas. There is no valid reason why a person should not be required to show a valid photo ID when they vote. We all show a legal ID every time we cash a check or even when entering a nightclub on Friday night. While I do disagree with some stuff our conservative legislature in Austin is trying to push down our throats, "Voter ID" is a good idea and should be passed into law.

Only a fool or someone who hopes to gain the votes of an illegal immigrant would oppose such a simple and good law. As most voters stated in the last election, Americans and Texans are tired of business as usual coming from our elected officials. One of those practices is allowing anyone to show up on election day and vote for the candidate of their choice. To vote in Texas, a person must be a legal resident and how in the world will election workers know if they are unless the voter is required to show a legal Texas photo ID? Democrats in the Texas State Legislature are on the wrong side of this "Voter ID" issue and frankly it is making them seem like a supporter of allowing non legally registered voters to cast ballots on Election Day.

What has happened to the modern day democratic party in the State of Texas? Have they all sold their souls to liberals in Washington for so long now that they don't even know what being a real Texan means anymore? The only valid reason for not requiring every single voter in Texas to show a legal photo id when they vote is to allow people who should not be voting to evade the law and vote anyway. Every Texan who applies for a job, must show his or her employer a valid Texas Photo ID. Should we expect anything less when that same person shows up to vote for our future elected leaders?

Fat Ho Burgers Draws National Attention

2011-03-24T22:19:00.007-05:00

Within a few days of opening, a brand new restaurant in Waco is drawing national attention. The name of this new burger joint is "Fat Ho Burgers". The list of entrees on the menu are just as unusual and funny as the business name. Within hours of opening, a newspaper story in the Waco Tribune Herald told about this new business and it's unusual name. There have been some residents in Waco that do not like the business name, but the vast majority of people think the name is funny.

As word of this new Waco business with a funny sounding name spread, all three local TV stations visited "Fat Ho Burgers" to gather feedback from local patrons. To a person, everyone said the food was fantastic even though it's location is a bit hard to find. Then on Wednesday, a television station in Dallas / Fort Worth traveled to Waco to see for themselves what the big attraction was to "Fat Ho Burgers". The owner of Fat Ho Burgers is a young African-American woman in her 20's, who thought that a different sounding name for her business might draw positive attention. She was so right.

I have not visited Fat Ho Burgers yet, but my wife and I usually eat at all new Waco restaurants within the first few weeks after they open. From the looks of things, hundreds of people per day are current visiting Fat Ho Burgers and with publicity going statewide - it will likely be difficult to buy a burger at Fat Ho, unless the customer can wait a long time. It would not surprise me to wake up in the morning and find the "Today Show" or "Good Morning America" reporting live from Waco's Fat Ho Burgers. This new restaurant has caught on faster than any new business in this area in a long time.

Joyce Sturdivant Arrested For 2008 Murder Of Husband Joe

2011-03-16T23:46:00.001-05:00

While many people in the Waco area were surprised by Wednesday's arrest of Joyce Sturdivant, others have been pointing fingers of blame at her for the murder of her husband for several years now. While I do not live in Robinson, I am friends with some people who do and many of them have always thought that Joyce was behind the murder of her husband, Joe. As the special prosecutor laid out his case against Joyce Sturdivant on the 10 o'clock news Wednesday night, it was almost as if he had been talking to the same people I had been listening to for the past couple of years about this case.

Everyone in the Robinson area who knew the Sturdivant's well, all had the same response when it was suggested that intruders entered Joe Sturdivant's home and murdered him. They all talked about his huge dogs that would never let anyone other than a family member near his house. However, on the night of his murder – those dogs were running free. We know this because the police were unable to get out of their cars until his wife Joyce put them up. That one fact has caused many residents of Robinson and friends and neighbors of Joe to doubt that he was murdered by intruders in a robbery gone bad situation.

Last night on KWTX, there was an interview with a good friend of Joyce Sturdivant who did a great job of vouching for her innocence. However, there must be more than hear say evidence against Joyce Sturdivant for a McLennan County grand jury to have indicted her in the murder of her husband. A future murder trial of Joyce Sturdivant will likely create as much or more interest than was generated by Matt Baker's trial last year. Joe Sturdivant was a generally well liked man who owned and operated a transmission business in this area for decades. Joyce Sturdivant will likely go on trial sometime early next year.

Kitok's Restaurant Waco: Best Oriental Fries

2011-03-13T00:08:00.009-06:00

Saturday night, my wife and I visited one of our favorite restaurants in Waco. Kitok's, is located on N. 18th Street and is not the easiest place to find for folks who live outside of town. Like other restaurants, we usually order the same thing during every visit. Tonight, we each ordered a hamburger and shared a large order of oriental fries. Folks, if you have not tried the oriental fries at Kitok's – you have been missing out on something very special to eat in Waco, Texas.

In recent years, new owners have taken over Kitok's Restaurant in Waco, but they did not change a thing about the looks of the place or the wonderful cooking that goes on behind those small closed doors. During the work week, it is not uncommon to see bank presidents eating at Kitok's side by side with construction workers. The great food at Kitok's appeals to everyone and the atmosphere inside is old-fashion and very laid back. However, the number one reason why people in Waco keep coming back to Kitok's time and time again is for the oriental fries.

Kitok's Restaurant is located at 1815 N. 18th Street. (about halfway between Waco Dr. and MCC). The restaurant is very small with seating accommodations for less than 50 people. If you want to be seated quickly, plan your visits during off-peak times during the mid-afternoon or in the early evening hours. Kitok's is closed on Sunday and Monday. Whether you are thinking about eating at Kitok's for the first time or you plan to dine there again, it's always a real treat to eat outstanding food from a little place that most people have never heard of.

Nathan Romo's Gift Of Life To Strangers

2011-03-12T00:06:00.000-06:00

On Friday, Scott & White hospital in Temple successfully harvested the organs of Nathan Romo. He was shot Monday night in a Waco park as he sat inside his car. Romo found himself at the wrong place at the wrong time as bullets struck the car in which he was sitting. Waco Police have not made an arrest in the case, but Friday afternoon they upped the charges against his shooter to murder. Nathan Romo was 17-years-old and played football and attended Lorena High School.

Romo's family said that even at his young age he wanted to be an organ donor, so they honored his final request as his organs were harvested at Scott & White hospital in Temple on Friday afternoon. It will take time to learn how many lives were saved with Romo's organs. However, in time – I believe Romo's family will have the opportunity to meet some of the people who were given a second chance at life by his generous donation. Organ donation involves a terrible twist of fate, because in order for someone to live – another person must die.

When Nathan Romo made the decision to help a friend by giving him a ride into Waco on Monday, I'm certain that he did not know that choice would result in his death. While a tragedy for Nathan Romo's family, this story should serve as a wake up call to other young people to prove that they are not immune to the violence of others. Most teenagers seldom see the dangers that surround them every day. Instead, they go about their business and usually only see the good in others. It must be difficult being the parent of a teenager these days. As adults we see and know first hand how dangerous the world around us can be. However, it is next to impossible to pass on those survival instincts to our children.

Fight Between Brothers Leads To Murder/Arrest

2011-02-12T01:41:00.001-06:00

In one of the strangest cases of murder in recent years, three Hill County men have been charged with the murder of another by dragging a man behind a truck until he died. What makes this case even more unusual, is the man who has been charged with this murder – is the brother of the dragging victim. The other two suspects in this murder are also brothers. The Hill County Sheriff said that too much drinking and anger lead to a series of bad choices that left one person dead at the hands of his own brother and friends.

Raymond Scott Harrington, Marcus Allen Beckham and Raymond George Harrington Jr. have all been charged with the murder of Christopher Neal Beckham, a 24-year-old resident of Millford, Texas. According to Waco TV reports, all four men were unemployed, hanging out and drinking together on Wednesday night when anger turned into murder. Hill County Sheriff Jeffrey Lyon said that Marcus Allen Beckham has confessed to putting a rope type device around the neck of his brother Christopher and then tying it to the hitch of a pickup truck, before all three men began dragging the victim down country roads for at least five miles.

Treat N Go Saves The Day, Again

2011-02-11T01:00:00.002-06:00

In 2007, I discovered a new way to get a medical problem diagnosed and treated in the Waco area. This new method involves visiting a Nurse Practitioner at a Treat N Go Clinic, instead of a medical doctor. Then, this week, I found myself again in need of medical treatment, so I visited the Treat N Go Clinic just off of Valley Mills Dr., behind the McDonald's Restaurant. Unlike the old days when I would visit a doctors office and wait for hours just for a 5 minute visit – at Treat N Go, it's extremely easy to have a sickness diagnosed and treated. On Wednesday, when I visited Treat N Go in Waco – I arrived around 4:30pm and within 30 minutes I was finished and on way to the H.E.B. Pharmacy to get two prescriptions filled.

The first time I visited Treat N Go back in 2007, I do not believe they accepted health insurance. However, on my most recent visit on Wednesday – I saw a sign that listed some insurance companies which they accept. I was in a hurry, so I did not try to use my Blue Cross insurance card during my last visit. Part of the appeal of medical locations like Treat N Go in Waco are their pay your cash and get treatment fast option. The last time I visited Treat N Go, I was suffering from a sinus and upper respiratory infection. The Nurse Practitioner on duty conducted the same tests on me that a doctor would have and he was very friendly and seemed dedicated to making sure that I was back in good health as soon as possible.

The past twelve months, the media has been talking about how President Obama's new health care law will effect medical treatment in the future. I personally do not think the government will be more successful at running the health care industry, then insurance companies. However, I am so glad there are affordable medical clinics like Treat N Go in Waco – where a person in able to pay less than $100 for an office visit and be seen by a medical professional within a matter of minutes. The last thing I want to do, when already sick and feeling bad – is to sit in a doctors waiting room for hours, surrounded by other sick people. Even if you have gone to the same family doctor for years, the next time you call for an appointment and are told that it will be days before they can see you. Why not make a quick stop at Treat N Go, get treated and well on your way to recovery - long before your regular family doctor could even fit you in for an appointment?

Central Texas Sickness On The Rise

2011-02-08T00:28:00.003-06:00

When I came home from work on Friday, I felt fine. However, by midnight I knew I was getting sick with some kind of upper respiratory/sinus infection. Then on Saturday, I started feeling really bad. As it became difficult to breath, I decided to stay inside all weekend and only got out of bed to watch a few minutes of the Superbowl. I should have called in sick at work on Monday, but we were already short handed – so I slowly got myself out of bed and into the shower - then headed on into work. That is where I discovered some type of winter illness is making the rounds in the Waco area. Monday night, I was still coughing so much that it was hard to catch my breath. Also, my ribs and diaphragm are very sore - as if I had been working out all weekend.

When it comes to illness, I am a very fortune man – because the last time I was as sick as this was back in 2007. While I did not go to the doctor for this illness, it does seem to be some type of sinus infection that effects every part of the body. When I arrived at work on Monday, I heard from several people who have experienced this same illness. Some of them were sick last week, while others told me that their spouse or children have suffer from the same thing in February. Even Monday night, when I stopped by a convenience store after work, the clerk said he was feeling sick from the same symptoms. While the symptoms of this current bug traveling around Waco are similar to the flu, I personally think it is bacterial – rather than viral.

I was really looking forward to last weekend and I even considering taking in a Superbowl party or two. However, those plans were canceled shortly after returning from work on Friday. While this new sickness is making the rounds around Waco bringing with it fever and a general terrible feeling, I did start to recover by Monday night. The worst part about upper respiratory and/or sinus infections are the low grade cough they leave behind for weeks and sometimes months after the illness is gone. My hope is that you do not catch this new Waco sickness, but if you do – plan on staying in bed for the better part of 72 hours, until your body builds up enough strength and antibodies to fight it off.

Superbowl More Than A Game, It's A National Party

2011-02-05T00:33:00.002-06:00

The Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers have arrived in Texas and on Sunday, one of them will be world champions in the NFL. With the exception of Packers' and Steelers' fans, the annual Superbowl game is so much more than just the final game of a season. For most people, the annual Superbowl game is more about celebrating at thousands of parties, then it is to cheer for one team over the other. The later part of this week proved to be a cold one here in the Waco area, as the final blast of a cold front that effect most of the country all week – blanketed the area with several inches of snow.

Even with Waco streets filled with snow on Friday, the only thing most people were talking about was what they were going to be doing on Superbowl Sunday. Most people I talked to on Friday were attending a Superbowl Party either at a friends house or at a local business. None of my conversations involved a debate on which team would win the game, but instead people were just eager to get together with friends around a big football game and have a good time. Several people did tell me that the best part of the Superbowl for them, were the funny commercials that appears during the game. During most of the NFL season, when I am glued to my TV set watching the Dallas Cowboys, my wife usually goes shopping in order not to watch the game. However, she is always around during the Superbowl – because she likes the commercials.

While most people in the Waco area could care less which team wins the Superbowl on Sunday – most people will be near a TV set to watch the game anyway. Why? Simple because the annual Superbowl game has turned into an event that is much larger than the game itself. Yes, the NFL will bask in the glory of well over 100 million people watching their biggest game of the year. However - there is so much more to Superbowl Sunday, these days, than a football game. For most people watching the game, it will be the party and the commercials that will keep them tuned in for several hours and not the play on the field by the Green Bay Packers or the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Snowman Building In Central Texas

2011-02-04T02:02:00.001-06:00

Today, there will be a new sight to see around Waco and Central Texas as hundreds of snowmen will appear on the lawns of homes and businesses throughout the area. At 10pm last night, snow began falling in Waco and before the sun rises today – forecasters predict that 3 to 5 inches of snow will be on the ground. Mainly snow deprived Waco, finds itself with the “white stuff” only once or twice per year. It appears that our best chance for a meaningful snowfall that will not melt before sunrise will occur today February 4, 2011. It's not just kids that love to build a snow man or two in Waco, but adults seem to let their inter youth slip out every time snow falls in our city.

Even between midnight and 2am, some of my friends on Facebook were still awake and going outside to touch and experience the snow falling. I don't know what it is about snow that brings out the child in most people, but my guess is that something buried deep inside our mind creates a child like feeling each time snow begins falls. After previous large snowfalls in Waco, I have driven down Austin Avenue where dozens of snowmen are usually found. I'm not sure why the folks who live on Austin Avenue are so eager to build a snowman, but they are. With up to 5 inches of snow likely to be on the ground in Waco by 8am. I expect that there will by hundreds of snowmen popping up by noon today

I learned a long time ago, that there is an art to building a good snowman. For a snowman to last more than a few hours in Waco, it must be extremely fat at the bottom and on it's head. The great news for snowman builders today is that the high temperature in Waco is not expected to rise above freezing. That means that many of the snowmen built on Friday, could very well survive the weekend – which is very unusual for Central Texas. If you are an experienced snowman builder or you want to try your hand at constructing your first one. Today is your best opportunity to get the job done and having it remain around for more than a few hours. Have fun!

Cold Weather Increases House Fire Risks

2011-02-04T00:49:00.002-06:00

Every year, on the first real cold day of the winter, the Waco Fire Department answers more calls than usual - because residents are lighting their furnaces for the first time. The past week, the weather has been colder than normal and even though this is not the first winter blast of the year in Waco, there are still far too many house fires devastating families. Sadly, some people blame the victim, instead of realizing that a house fire could happen to anyone at any time. Certainly, many house fires could be avoided with more attention and alertness about the issue, but who is totally focused with laser attention 24 hours per day on everything?

It's one of the most devastating things that can occur in a family's life to watch their home burn to the ground. An old friend in the insurance business once told me that there were no better prospects to sell fire insurance to, then neighbors of those who just lost their home to fire. The citizens of Waco are fortune to have one of the best fire departments in the nation. However, there are thousands of rural Central Texas residents who find themselves with a 15 minute or more response time when a fire breaks out. Some of the most recent fires in the Waco area were located in rural settings where a slow response time and lack of available water - caused a bad fire to become a total loss.

Whether you live in the City of Waco or in the surrounding area, the best way to prevent a fire disaster is to have a plan of action - if your home catches on fire. At the top of the list, there must be a reliable way to get all family members out of the house in the event of a fire. Once everyone is safe, there should be working fire extinguishers available for family members to use - so small fires do not turn into a complete loss. The biggest thing most people can do to prevent a house fire is to be careful when lighting a gas furnace for the first time. Also, small electric space heaters will start fires - if placed too close to combustible materials. A friend of mine ends his emails with a signature saying: “be safe, be aware”. That is also wonderful advice for folks wanting to prevent house fires.

Students & Employees Are Hoping For A Three Day Weekend

2011-02-03T23:09:00.000-06:00

It started snowing in the Waco area around 10pm on Thursday night and with that beautiful white stuff falling from the sky, many students and employees began hoping for a snow day on Friday. From my location, not far from N. Valley Mills Drive, it appears that the snow is sticking to the well frozen ground. Rusty Garrett, from Channel 10, had predicted that it would snow Thursday night and he turned out to be 100% correct. Nothing excites a weatherman more than getting a forecast right. It's been a long week of extremely cold weather in Waco and throughout Central Texas. In fact, I told a coworker today – that I had already had my fill of winter for the entire year.

While driving around Waco on Thursday, I saw City of Waco employees working on a broken water pipe. That must be one of the worst jobs in the world when it's 20 degrees outside. I also have a friend who works at a local full service car wash tell me that he has been out of work all week. When I see City of Waco water department personnel working outside in 20 degree weather, while water is spraying into the air – I feel extremely blessed to have a job that does not require me to be subjected to either extreme cold or hot weather.

As the cold weather has continued to blanket the area this week, homeless shelters have become packed with visitors who normally sleep outside, even during the winter months. It's been snowing now for about an hour and as I look out the window into a yard that is normally brown this time of year, there is something soothing about seeing a sea of white instead. I think it's likely that most school districts will cancel classes on Friday. Heck, the other day they canceled school in the Waco area even when there was little to no snow falling. Each employer will decide whether or not to close on Friday based on their own circumstances. However, considering how many Waco area employees have suffered hardships just in getting to work all this week - I hope non essential businesses will consider allowing their employees to have an unexpected three day weekend to help them recover from all this cold weather.

For the rest of us who must work on Friday, let's just remember what the Sarge use to say on “Hillstreet Blues” many years ago - “Let's all be careful out there”.

Dallas Superbowl Revenue Extends To Central Texas

2011-02-03T01:42:00.002-06:00

Mike Copeland wrote an interesting article in the Thursday edition of the Waco Tribune Herald about some local hotels receiving reservations for people who are attending the Superbowl. The Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex is alive with excitement this week as the first ever Superbowl will be played there. Just to make sure the Mayor of Arlington doesn't get mad at me too – the actual Superbowl game will not be played in Dallas, but at the new home of the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas. It's hard for me to believe that with the thousands of hotels and motels in the DFW area that there are not enough rooms to handle 100,000 or so fans from Green Bay and Pittsburgh.

My best guess agrees with Copeland in his article that some people just don't want to book a hotel room in Dallas or Fort Worth, because they probably have family members who live in the Waco area. Whatever the reason, it's a good thing for the local economy anytime hotel rooms are filling up in the Waco area. Back when George W. Bush was the President of the United States and vacationed at his Crawford ranch – dozens of new hotels were built in the Waco area. I remember asking myself, even back then, how in the world the City of Waco would be able to support so many new hotel rooms – once he was not in office anymore. To date, most of those newly constructed hotels are still in business, so I guess there was more demand in this area than I at first thought.

Like most folks around here, I am so disappointed that the Dallas Cowboys will not be playing as the home team in the Superbowl this year. However, that disappointment is tempered by the fact that there will be a Superbowl played in Central Texas for the first time. Late estimates suggest that Superbowl attendance at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington could exceed 100,000 people. However, I do not expect Sunday's attendance to surpass the all time record set at the Rose Bowl in 1980 of almost 104,000 people. Right now, on a funny note, I just hope that our local power companies will be able to avoid rolling blackouts when all those Superbowl fans start showing up in Waco to book their hotel rooms this weekend.

Number One Lady Bears From Baylor Destroy Oklahoma

2011-02-03T00:12:00.001-06:00

On Sunday, the Baylor Lady Bears were played a close game by A&M. However, on Wednesday night – Baylor played a blowout game against OU and won by the score of 92-70. A few weeks ago, I suggested that there are really only two great girls basketball teams in the United States. The Baylor Lady Bears and UConn. Mixed in with Baylor and Connecticut are about a dozen good basketball teams, but they are not in the same caliber as Baylor and UConn in 2011. After watching A&M play a close game to Baylor on Sunday, I am now ready to say that there are three great girls basketball teams in 2011. Baylor, UConn and Texas A&M.

Is anyone else already starting to have March Madness fever? I'm not sure if it's the extreme cold weather from the past few days or the remarkable way Baylor is winning it's games this year – but I most certainly am ready for March and the “Final Four”. Going into 2011, I also had high hopes for the Baylor Men – but as of late, they do not seem ready to compete this year in any meaningful way in the playoffs. So, all my hopes and best wishes are flowing in the direction of the Baylor Lady Bears - who might be peaking at just the right time for this years “Final Four” championship. Until I watched Texas A&M almost beat the Lady Bears last weekend, I did not think there would be a serious challenge to Baylor until they met UConn in the championship game this March.

Now, I'm not so sure that Baylor will easily walk into the “Final Four” game against UConn, because there is a good chance that Texas A&M could beat them before they get there. During the first half of Sunday's game between Baylor and Texas A&M, the Lady Bears totally dominated A&M. However, in the second half – a completely different Texas A&M team came out to play and Baylor was fortunate to win that game. Time will tell if Texas A&M has a great team in 2011 or just a good one that was pumped up when playing the number one team in the nation. Right now, I hope for a Baylor Lady Bear victory each and every time they show up to play a game and so far that wish has come true.

Rolling Blackouts To Continue On Thursday

2011-02-02T23:08:00.000-06:00

Wednesday was a tough day to be a citizen of Waco, because extreme cold weather and a couple of power plant disruptions caused there to be rolling blackouts throughout the day. Reports late Wednesday night say that more rolling blackouts should be expected on Thursday in many parts of Texas. I consider myself lucky, because the only thing that effected my wife and I on Wednesday – were the rolling blackouts. Several friends and coworkers told me that they were were without electricity for most of Tuesday night. One coworker, even told a funny story about putting her makeup on using two candles and a flash light, since her home was in total darkness when she woke up.

To me, the whole idea of rolling power blackouts are events that usually happen during the long hot days of summer. I cannot remember a time in recent years when the electric company was forced to institute this type of policy during the winter months. While I'm not sure exactly what happened to cause Wednesday's rolling power blackouts in Waco, several television stations reported that there was a shortage of electricity in the area, because two different power producing plants had major water-line breaks at the same time. A little good news was reported late Wednesday night that should help the power needs of Texas for the rest of the week. With the electricity demand of Texas continuing to be at an all time high going into Thursday and Friday, the government of Mexico has agreed to sell the state extra electricity until this latest cold spell leaves the area some time this weekend.

Like many other long time Waco residents, I have more jackets in my closet than real warm winter coats. That said, I was fortunate to find an old, heavy winter coat in the back of my closet this morning. Those light jackets I wear during most of the winter - certainly would not have kept me warn this week in Waco. As I was walking to the house tonight and my fingers were very cold, my mind was wondering how in the world people in places like New York City and Chicago survive such cold winters? Most of the time, the weather in Central Texas is just fine with me. However, this week of extreme cold temperatures and the extreme heat that will invade the area this summer are certainly exceptions to our usually great weather.

Gordon Collier (KWTX Channel 10) Arrives In Iraq

2011-02-02T00:58:00.001-06:00

It was great seeing Gordon Collier alive, well and reporting live from Iraq on Tuesday night. Collier flew from Fort Hood, Texas – halfway around the world to bring back stories from soldiers, who's family members call the Killeen, Texas area home. Gordon Collier has been a member of the KWTX Channel 10 news team since the days of the David Koresh/Branch Davidian standoff in Waco. On Tuesday night, Gordon talked about how difficult it was just to get to Iraq for soldiers who have deployed there for years. As he described his travels from Central Texas to Iraq, I kept thinking back to an old work saying that goes: “hurry up and wait”.

After a long trip and countless hours just to get there, Gordon Collier is now in Iraq and judging from his facial expressions on New 10 Tuesday night - he appeared to be in be well rested and in good spirits. Colliers' co-anchor Julie Hays visited with him via a satellite hook-up. As many of you already know, Julie Hays is pregnant and has opened up her new family journey to thousands TV viewers in the Waco area. The next few nights, Gordon Collier will be reporting live on News Channel 10 about his travels around the nation of Iraq. On Wednesday, he plans to fly to Mosul, Iraq and visit with US troops there. If I am not mistaken, it was in the City of Mosul that Saddam Hussein's two sons battled to their deaths against US troops early on in the Iraqi war effort.

It's a real treat for Waco TV news viewers to have one of their own reporters/anchors reporting live nightly from Iraq. For many Central Texas residents, the end of the Iraq War cannot come soon enough. A great deal of American treasure has been lost on the battlefields of Iraq, since the war began. However, on a positive note – it does appear that the new Iraqi government is making great strides in learning how to govern themselves in a free and democratic way. I look forward to watching News Channel 10's Gordon Collier report back from Iraq all this week and at the end of his journey - I pray that God brings him back home safely to Central Texas.

Schools Closed While Businesses Remained Open

2011-02-01T23:23:00.002-06:00

Most schools in and around the Waco area were closed on Tuesday, because of bad weather. However, most businesses remained open and that created a problem for hundreds of parents who did not have a back-up plan for child care. A few times per year, this same scenario occurs and the same people who did not have a plan the year before, find themselves at a loss for what to do once again. It's pretty much a certainty that public schools in and around Waco will declare a couple of snow days each year, even if there is no snow on the ground. However, some people refuse to plan ahead and those are the folks who found themselves between a rock and a hard place on Tuesday.

While I believe it's the wrong thing to do, some young parents look at public school as nothing more than a child care facility during most of the year. Then that once or twice a year bad weather event occurs and those parents do not have an alternate location to watch their kids, when the boss says that normal working hours will be observed. I know some Waco businesses allow parents to bring their children to work on occasions like these, but others do not want small children interfering with the normal business day. With few other options available, some parents will be forced to stay home on bad weather school days and either take a vacation day or miss out of 8 hours of pay.

While the weather in Waco was very windy and cold on Tuesday, forecasters are predicting that Wednesday morning it will be even colder than yesterday. In fact, Rusty Garrett from Channel 10 news said that by 6:00 Wednesday morning the temperature in Waco will be 12 degrees or lower. I think it's possible that some schools in this area will, once again, cancel school on Wednesday and that will create even more problems for working parents. A word of advice from a man who has lived in Waco for almost 35 years. Count on there being at least a couple of school days each year being canceled, because of bad weather, and also prepare for the possibility that your employer will not be closed on the same day as school.

What Happened To Tommy B's Restaurant In Waco?

2011-02-01T00:02:00.000-06:00

When I arrived home from work on Monday, my wife told me that she saw a “for lease” sign at 900 N. Valley Mills Drive where Tommy B's Restaurant use to be. I certainly hope that they have moved to a new location and not gone out of business. Every Saturday, I look forward to eating at Tommy B's. It's not uncommon for us to wait for an available table, because so many people are enjoying this fine restaurant. I hope someone will post a comment to this blog post, if they know what happened to Tommy B's Restaurant in Waco.

My wife and I ate at Tommy B's this past Saturday and the place was packed with customers. As I usually do, I ordered Tommy B's great breakfast and it was wonderful. A couple of weeks ago, we ate some “home made chili” that was fantastic. It did seem like the employees were mentally distracted on Saturday and I am hoping that the reason for their behavior was not because the restaurant was closing for good. If Tommy B's Waco has gone out of business, it will be a great loss to this community. It's common to meet old friends and business associates when dining there.

If Tommy B's has moved to another location, I hope someone will post the address in the comments section of this story. I know people would be willing to travel to enjoy Tommy B's great food, if we only knew where it's new location will be. If on the other hand, Tommy B's has gone out of business – I hope someone will post that news, as well. The numbers of locally owned restaurants in Waco continues to diminish each year and I certainly hope that we have not lost another one, because of over saturation by out-of-town franchise operations.

Bitter Cold Tuesday, School Closings Possible

2011-01-31T23:25:00.000-06:00

When I went to the store about 9pm on Monday night, a coat was not even required. However, by this time tomorrow – a cold front will be in Waco and the daytime high temperature will not surpass 40 degrees. I remember hearing old timers say when I was young, that the if you don't like the weather in Waco - just wait 15 minutes and it will change. It appears that Tuesday will validate those old guys "big time". While I believe the weather forecasters when they say Tuesday will be a day of terribly cold weather in Waco, it's just hard to imagine the weather changing so much between now and 5am when this cold front arrives in the area.

There are already plans being put into place to cancel school in some parts of the Waco area and some local businesses might decide to shutdown, as well. I moved to Waco in the early 1980's and for the most part I love the weather in this part of the country. However, there are two weather events that are not my favorites in Waco. The first are the 100 degree plus long hot and humid summer days and second the extreme cold weather that only happens a couple of times per year. While it's possible that Waco schools will close on Tuesday, my best guess is that students might be getting their hopes up for no school tonight, only to have them crushed early tomorrow morning.

The worst part about cold, slick and icy weather in Central Texas is the fact that most long term residents do not know how to drive on those types of roads. I grew up in the Texas Panhandle not far from Amarillo. Up there – ice, snow and miserable winter weather is a reality for several full months each year during the winter. When roads are covered with ice and snow for several weeks or a month at a time, residents learn how to navigate their travel via experience. However, with snow and ice only a brief part of the Waco winter experience each year, no one has time to figure out the best way to travel down a roadway that is covered with ice. My fingers are crossed with the hope that Tuesday's winter cold weather blast into Waco will not be that bad.

Waco TV Anchors Gordon Collier & Doug Currin Travel To Iraq

2011-01-26T01:56:00.000-06:00

The other day, I saw a promotional advertisement on KWTX-TV saying that their lead anchor Gordon Collier was traveling to Iraq. Then last night, I saw a similar ad on KCEN-TV stating that their new news anchor Doug Currin was also traveling to Iraq. Is Ann Harder, from KXXV, going too? My guess is that leaders at Fort Hood have made arrangement for local Waco TV news anchors to travel to Iraq, in order to bring stories from troops, based in Killeen, back home to their families. It's also a good time for local Waco media to take a good hard look at Iraq - before US troops leave that country for good, soon.

From the very beginning of the war, all three Waco area TV stations have performed an admirable job at reporting news stories from Iraq. Even when the national news media turned their focus to more pressing domestic stories - KWTX, KXXV and KCEN have all continued to bring information from the war front back home to news hungry family members at Fort Hood. The Iraq news coverage by our local TV stations was most emotional to me - when they opened up their airwaves to let ground troops, in Iraq, send video messages to family members back in Central Texas during holiday's. Now - many of the Fort Hood troops who have served multiple deployments in Iraq will be coming home, soon.

I think it's great that the US military is making it possible for Gordon Collier and Doug Currin to travel to Iraq. For all I know - someone from KXXV will be making that trip, as well. With the economy being the only big news of the day, recently - it's sadly easy to forget the men and women who are sacrificing it all to protect our very freedom. I look forward to watching news reports from Iraq, both on KWTX and KCEN in the upcoming weeks. The Iraq War has been extremely long and filled with far too many ultimate sacrifices from troops all over the United States. At long last - many of our brave soldiers will be heading back to Fort Hood and Central Texas and out of harms way.

Who Will Win Aggies Lady Bears Game Sunday?

2011-01-25T01:33:00.000-06:00

Being ranked number six in the country is a wonderful place to be for the Texas A&M Aggie girls. Unless, the next team slated in your line-up is ranked number one. On Sunday afternoon, the Baylor Lady Baylor Bears will play the Aggie girls from College Station. The Lady Bears from Baylor have been ranked number one in girls college basketball, ever since UConn lost about one month ago. There is still that nagging question in the back of all college prognosticator's minds as to whether or not the Baylor Lady Bears can beat UConn when they play again in the "Final Four"?

Long before they or we know the answer to that question, Texas A&M will have played the Lady Bears and the outcome of that game will be known. If the Lady Bears from Baylor are successful at defeat the Aggies on Sunday, one more big challenge to their greatness in 2011 will be settled. However, if Baylor loses to A&M on Sunday - expect the Lady Bears to drop well out of the top ten in girls college basketball by next Tuesday. There is no debating the fact that the Texas A&M girls have a great team in 2011. However, I feel certain that when Sunday's game is over - it will be the Lady Bears celebrating and not the Aggies from Texas A&M. My sister lives in College Station and is very proud of the A&M girls team. However, she told me last weekend - that she doubts that her favorite team is good enough to beat the Lady Bears.

My guess is that the game between A&M and Baylor, on Sunday, will be sold out. Sports writers, TV commentators and basketball fans in general will be watching closely to find out - if the Baylor Lady Bears are really good enough to be ranked number one in the country. While it's a big ego boast to be ranked at the number one position in girls college basketball, the downside is that every team you play wants to beat you that much more. Here in Waco and 90 miles down the road in College Station, fans from both teams are ready to rumble come Sunday afternoon. Will Sunday prove that the Baylor Lady Bears are rightfully ranked number one or will a Texas A&M victory smash everyone's dreams? We will all know the answer to that question before Monday morning. No matter who wins between the girls from A&M and the Lady Bears, it should be one heck of a good game.

12-Year-Old Girl Stabbed In College Station McDonald's

2011-01-12T00:00:00.032-06:00

College Station, located about 100 miles south of Waco down Highway 6, was the place of a stabbing last night of a 12-year-old girl in a McDonald's Restaurant. Video tape surveillance shows a young white man entering the restaurant - shortly before the girl was stabbed in a random violent act. According to local TV reports, the girl was taken to a local hospital and is in stable condition. According to police, there was no confrontation between the man and the 12-year-old girl before he walked up and stabbed her with a knife. The girl was just standing by the door in the McDonald's Restaurant, waiting for a ride, when the man pulled out a knife - stabbed her and then fled out the door.

In a strange twist of fate, that same McDonald's Restaurant in College Station, was robbed just hours before this stabbing took place. Since College Station is the location of one of the biggest universities in the state, parents all over the country are expressing their concern over this violent crime. So far, no arrests have been made in this case. Please watch the video below, provided by "New Channel 10" in Waco. This video shows the suspect police are looking for in this crime.

Billy Joe Harris Identified As Twilight Rapist

2011-01-11T00:56:00.000-06:00

On Monday, police identified Billy Joe Harris as the man they believe is the "Twilight Rapist". Through DNA testing, Texas authorities said the evidence recovered at several different crime scenes was a match to Harris. Billy Joe Harris is a 53 year-old-man - who lives in Missouri City, Texas. He is employed by the State of Texas in the prison system. For lack of a better term, Harris was "caught in the act" of trying to rape another elderly woman on Sunday morning when he was captured by police. Two Edna, Texas police officers arrested Harris after responding to a silent alarm for help from a local resident.

Police in the Waco area and in other parts of the state will be working to put their cases together in order to prosecute Harris. My guess is that "Billy Joe Harris" will take a plea deal, which will put him in jail until he is a very old man - rather than face numerous trials in various jurisdictions around the State of Texas. Rape is a terrible crime under any circumstance, but when a person decides to break into the homes of elderly women who live alone and then rape and terrorize them, that crime is especially heinous. I have no clue what would motive any person to rape and rob female senior citizens and ruin what is left of their lives.

It is interesting that Billy Joe Harris is an employee of the prison system in Texas, because soon he will be looking out from the other side of those bars he has guarded for years. The rest of Harris' life will not be a pleasant experience, because everyone knows that it's unsafe for a former prison guard to find himself living among convicts. Finally, after many years of worry and concern that their rapist would return and harm them again - female senior citizens around the State of Texas can finally breath easy and get on with living the rest of the life.

Waco Area Twilight Rapist Arrested After DNA Match

2011-01-09T18:11:00.002-06:00

In Edna, Texas - an arrest was made early Sunday morning (4:30am) of a suspect that might be the elusive "Twilight Rapist" who has preyed on elderly women in the Waco area for months. Police in Edna, arrested the suspect when an elderly lady tripped a silent alarm in her home. For a long time, the "Twilight Rapist" has walked free after breaking into the homes of elderly women who live alone to rape and rob them. The number of rapes committed by the "Twilight Rapist" hit a peak last summer at which time the world famous Texas Rangers joined in the search for him. Finally, female senior citizens will be able to rest at night - without the worry of someone breaking into their homes and sexually attacking them.

Late reports on Sunday night claim that there has been a positive DNA match to the suspect arrested in Edna - that ties him to at least one of the 2009 rapes in the Waco area. The "Twilight Rapist" committed his crimes in Leon and Bell Counties. Central Texas communities where rapes took place during this crime spree include: Marlin, Yoakum, Luling and Moody. A news conference is scheduled for Monday to release more information about the arrest of the Twilight Rapist.

The following links lead to addition information about the arrest of the Twilight Rapist.

KCEN - KWTX - KXXV

Waco Prepares For Arctic Cold Front Monday

2011-01-09T01:48:00.000-06:00

Unless you were living under a rock, on Saturday, you noticed that the weather in Waco has taken a turn to the cold side. Right now, Sunday January 09, 2011 at approximately 2am, I hear rain falling outside as a massive Arctic cold front moves into the Waco area. Sunday's high temperature in Waco is expect to be near freezing and on Monday - the full force of this latest cold front will drop temperatures into the upper 20's. I can't help but worry about animals during extreme cold weather like this and I hope that folks will do the right thing and protect their dogs, cats and other pets over the next few days until this cold spell moves on.

Saturday afternoon, my wife and I attended a birthday party in Elm Mott. It was clear to see that the temperature outside was dropping pretty fast as the afternoon went along. Then, when the sun went down Saturday night, those cloudy skies over Waco began to open up and the rain started in earnest around 9pm. I have not gone outside in a few hours, but just a quick look out of the living room window tells me that along with the light rain that is falling in Waco right now, the temperature outside has dropped considerably too. I moved to Waco in 1983. Back then, it was common to see several big cold fronts move through this area each winter and with them a considerable amount of snowfall. However, for the past 10 years - very little snow and fewer cold fronts seem to move through the Waco area each winter.

My younger years were lived in a small town in the Texas panhandle. On many occasions, I remember waking up in the morning before school to find snow drifts that were upwards of 10 feet. In the Texas panhandle, school was not canceled because of 10 foot snow drifts. However, in the Waco area - I have seen school canceled even when the forecast calls for just a small amount of snow to accumulate. At that birthday party Saturday afternoon, my niece made me laugh when she said she was hoping for snow on Sunday, so school would be canceled on Monday. It's so funny how schools in the Waco area are eager to close for a snow day, when even bigger snow falls do not close schools in the Texas panhandle. Everyone, stay bundled up and off the roads until this Arctic cold front passes the Waco area on Tuesday.

Arctic Cold Front To Blast Waco On Monday

2011-01-08T02:17:00.000-06:00

Folks, put simply it is going to get cold this weekend and by the time you head to work on Monday morning - there could be snow on the ground in Waco and the temperature will be below 30 degrees. All of this is happening, because an Arctic cold front is moving into the Waco area and as of right now - the National Weather Service is not sure exactly how cold it will get this weekend and snow predictions are all over the map. I remember when Waco received a bunch of snow, on one day, last winter and now it appears that our one big annual blast of winter weather will be here for 2011 on Monday morning.

The biggest dangers in and around Waco when there is cold weather and snow are the local drivers who do not know how to drive on slick/snow filled roads. I was born and raised in the Amarillo area and up there, several heavy snowfalls and blizzards are the norm each year. However, in Waco - sometimes two or three years can pass before any sizable snow falls in our city. The only advice I can give to my fellow Waco residents is to stay off the roads on Sunday and Monday, when the worst of this Arctic cold front blows through and if you must get out and drive, please take your time and be careful.

Another thing many residents of Waco forget when an Arctic cold front blows through our city is to make sure their pets are not left outside when temperatures drop below freezing. A dog or cat can freeze to death in a short period of time, if left without shelter from the extreme cold. Also, remember that since Waco is not exposed to extreme cold temperatures that often, water pipes both in homes and businesses along with those underground are not as protected from freezing temperatures as they are in other part of the country. The best advice for everyone is to stay home and off the streets until this Arctic blast of cold and miserable weather passes on Tuesday of next week.

Will Baylor's Lady Bears Be Ranked Number One?

2011-01-02T00:34:00.000-06:00

Now that Uconn has been defeated by Stanford, the next question on the minds of Waco fans is - will the Baylor Lady Bears be ranked number one in the country next week? Frankly, I do not believe the Lady Bears will necessarily move up to number one in the rankings - since Uconn did beat Baylor earlier this year in a crushing one point defeat. However, there seems to be a tide running against Uconn since they have been ranked number one for so long. Sure it would be nice if new college basketball polls came out next week and ranked the Baylor Lady Bears in the number one spot, but polls are always something I pay little attention to considering they seem to change all the time.

The Lady Bears are riding a 10 game winning streak going into Big 12 play and in my opinion, the team is looking as good as or better than they did when they won a national championship many years ago. One thing going for the Baylor Lady Bears now, that did not play into their victories in years past is the outstanding play of Brittney Griner. In my decades of following girls college basketball, Griner is the best player that I have ever watched. Not only is Brittney Griner taller than many men playing basketball - her aggressive style on the basketball court does make the difference in most Baylor games. If Waco's Lady Baylor Bears are successful at winning a national title in 2011, Brittney Griner will be the main reason for that victory.

As she always does, Baylor head coach Kim Mulkey took the question of whether or not the Lady Bears will be ranked number one in the country next week in stride. She said, "some team has to be number one, so why not us"? In the end - Brittney Griner, head coach Kim Mulkey and the rest of the Baylor girls basketball team know that poll rankings can and will change like the wind - but winning a national championship is something that will last a lifetime. In my gut, I believe 2011 is the time that the Baylor Lady Bears basketball team will leave Indianapolis with a national championship trophy in their hands.

Cheddar's Restaurant Waco Has Great Rib-Eye Steak

2011-01-01T20:08:00.000-06:00

On Friday night, my wife and I visited Cheddar's Restaurant located at 4208 Franklin in Waco. We have enjoyed the food at Cheddar's for many years, but our last visit was the first time I ordered their rib-eye steak. Folks, let me tell you that if you are a fan of good rib-eye steaks - Cheddar's is the place to go. Not only was my steak cooked perfectly, it was very tender and very tasty. To top off my steak experience at Cheddar's in Waco, the price for their aged 12 oz. rib-eye steak was only $12.95. On most visits to Waco Cheddar's Restaurant, I order the half rack of ribs - which are absolutely fantastic.

Most of the time, on Friday nights, Cheddar's is packed from about 7pm till midnight. However, last night when we visited Cheddar's on New Years Eve - we were seated promptly and our food was served within 15 minutes of our arrival. Another thing both my wife and I enjoy while eating at Cheddar's are their chips dipped in Chile con queso. There are few places in the world that have better Chile con queso than at Cheddar's. I'm not really sure how they make it, but after it sits for about 5 minutes - every time a person dips a corn chip into it, the cheese strings to the chip in the neatest way.

Now, I have two favorite menu choices when visiting Cheddar's in Waco. The first is my all time favorite half-rack of ribs and after last night, it will be difficult not to order their 12 oz. rib-eye steak. The rib-eye steak I order last night was so big that I could only eat half of it. So tonight, I decided to finish the rest of my steak along with about 1/3 of a baked potato which I took home with me last night. Many times, when steaks are rewarmed in the microwave oven at home - the meat becomes tough and difficult to eat. However, the rib-eye steak that I had left over from Cheddar's - did not lose any of it's tenderness when it was reheated the next day.

Mega Millions Lotto January 4 Drawing Excites Waco Players

2011-01-01T12:48:00.004-06:00

Click Here For Mega Millions Winning Lottery Numbers For (01/04/2011)

If the hype turns into reality, on January 4, 2011 - the multi-state Mega Millions jackpot will soar to over $300 million. On New Years Eve, there was no winner and even then the estimated jackpot amount was a tremendous $242 million. In and around the Waco area, lotto fever is already alive and well and by the time Tuesday night rolls around - long lines will be forming at area convenience stores as thousands of people wait patiently to buy a lotto ticket that could change their lives forever. What most people miss in all of the big lotto excitement is that the odds of a person winning the Mega Millions jackpot is about 1 in 180 million.

That said, I see no harm in putting down one dollar for a chance to win over $300 million. The real problems begin when people who do not have enough cash to begin with, decide to spend hundreds of dollars on lottery tickets - instead of feeding their families and paying the rent. If folks would use just a little common sense when it comes to playing the lotto, they would realize that it is next to impossible for them to win any of the grand prizes. I personally think that buying a single lotto ticket is one of the best entertainment values around. For one dollar, a person could buy a cup of coffee or a small candy bar or they could buy a lotto ticket that will give them a big sense of excitement, at least until the next drawing is held.

Common sense and moderation have always been the keys to a happy life, but there will always be some folks who wrongly believe that they can short cut that path to personal success and fulfillment. I expect to buy my one dollar ticket sometime this weekend from the folks at Mega Millions and I will patiently wait for the next drawing to see if I'm the winner. However, I will not be at the mall or searching for a larger home while I am waiting for the next drawing. Common sense tells me that my odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot on January 4 are greater than being stuck by lightning on a clear day. Happy New Year everyone!

Stanford Ends Uconn's Winning Streak Before Waco Lady Bears

2010-12-31T01:10:00.000-06:00

A few days ago, I wrote here that I believed it would be the Waco Lady Baylor Bears who would end the winning streak of the University of Connecticut (Uconn) Lady Huskies team. However, last night - Stanford beat the Lady Baylor Bears to that challenge, so the Uconn winning streak ends at 90 games. No sports team is invincible and no matter how good a team is, they will eventually find their way to defeat. That said, oh what a winning streak it was for the Uconn Lady Huskies - who racked up 90 straight victories. I can only image how the citizens of Waco would feel if our Lady Bears were riding a winning streak of almost 100 consecutive games.

Like millions of other fans around the country, I find myself impatiently waiting for March - when the best college basketball teams meet in Indianapolis to play in the Final Four of lady's basketball. Before last nights surprising victory by Stanford over Uconn, I was expecting to see the Lady Baylor Bears cruise into the finals with only Uconn standing in the way of them winning another national championship. However, I now need to add Stanford to my list of possible 2011 National Champions as they proved their worth "big time" against Uconn last night. Like has been the case in the past, it's hard to predict who might win the Final Four until late in February. Looks like 2011 will be no different.

Waco Residents Take Up Arms To Defend Life & Property

2010-12-31T00:13:00.001-06:00

On Thursday night, KWTX-TV (Channel 10) reported on two incidents, recently, where Waco area residents used firearms to protect their homes and businesses. The sad truth is, that crime is increasing and with law enforcement agencies being stretched thin - some Waco citizens are making the choice to arm themselves against criminals who wish to do them harm. What is happening in Waco right now, is no different than what has happened in the past when criminals are left to wander the streets - because of prison overcrowding and a lack of will among elected leaders to spend the money necessary to keep them locked up.

Just as in the past, most crimes are committed by career criminals who have little to no fear when they are arrested by police. Many times, criminals just work the criminal justice system to the point where they are either given a small prison sentence or no jail time at all. Some in the legal field call this the "revolving door" of Texas prisons, which are overcrowded on most days. When it comes election time, all politicians are on the side of "law and order", but something happens to them when they take office and start to look at what it costs taxpayers to fund long jail sentences for career criminals. Make no mistake, if you are the victim of a crime - more than likely the person who victimized you is a career criminal.

What politicians in Austin and Washington D.C. do not seem to understand is that people in rural states, like Texas, will not take being victimized sitting down. People in Waco and in other communities around Texas are well known for their willingness to take up arms and defend their families and property themselves, when the criminal justice system fails to serve the public. There are people I know that say the crime rate in Waco is greater now because of recession. I don't buy into that theory, because I consider violent crime a problem of character and not one of financial need. I expect more citizens in Waco to start buying guns, if local police and courts do not get career criminals off the streets for good.

Will Baylor's Lady Bears Put An End To UConn's Winning Streak?

2010-12-22T01:52:00.000-06:00

As of today, the University of Connecticut (UConn) girls basketball team has won 89 games without a defeat. While this is record breaking news, about one month ago - the Baylor Lady Bears came within one point of ending the UConn winning streak, then. In 2010, there are two great teams, in the country, playing collegiate female basketball and those two teams are the University of Connecticut Huskies and the Baylor Lady Bears in Waco, Texas. If there is one team in the United States that has the potential to defeat the UConn Huskies', in 2010/2011, that team is Waco's Lady Baylor Bears.

The rivalry between Baylor and UConn in girls basketball has been growing for years. When it comes to girls basketball, there are no two better coaches than Kim Mulkey for the Lady Baylor Bears and Geno Auriemma for the University of Connecticut girls team. Even in 2010, with the Baylor Lady Bears ranked number two in the country - the one team that the Bears and everyone else has to beat to win a national championship is Auriemma's UConn Huskies. Waco's Baylor Lady Bears' will certainly have a chance to revenge their one point loss to the UConn girls when the holiday's give way to another season of Final Four games in March. However, will Kim Mulkey be able to lead her Lady Bears to a victory against a UConn team that right now seems unbeatable?

Of course, as a Waco resident - I believe that the Lady Baylor Bears can and will defeat Auriemma's Lady Huskies in the last game of the 2011 Final Four series. Right now, everyone in the sports world has elevated the Lady Huskies' to a level where most people don't believe they are beatable. However, in the world of sports - a huge winning streak like the one currently earned by the UConn Lady Huskies cannot and will not last forever. The big question is, when will the Baylor Lady Bears or some other great team put an end to UConn's undefeated status? Personally, I do not believe any team is good enough defeat UConn's girls basketball team this year - with the possible exception on Kim Mulkey's Baylor Lady Bears. Frankly, I cannot wait for the 2011 Final Four - when I hope that the Baylor Lady Bears stop Auriemma's Uconn Lady Huskies' flat in their tracks.

I Am One Of The 7% (Inspirational Video Presentation)

2010-12-21T23:35:00.001-06:00

Today, I was visiting Facebook and saw a inspirational video that brought tears to my eyes - because of what it had to say. Later in the day, I visited YouTube and found a copy of this video so I could embed it here for all to see. The holiday season for many is a time of stress and anger, because of the material nature of what Christmas has become in the modern age. After watching the video presentation below titled "I am one of the 7%", I found my heart full of joy and maybe this video will help you too.

Here in the Waco area, the streets are cluttered with last minute Christmas shoppers rushing to the mall to find those last minute gifts. Like in years past, far too many people will spend more money than they can afford on people who really won't be touched by their gifts of love. Those kind of people will always be around to mess up a good thing, like the birth of Jesus Christ, and as I have grown older I have found myself praying for them with compassion - instead of cursing them under my breath, because of their rudeness. The creator of the music video "I am one of the 7%" is asking people to forward this message around the Internet. If you wish to help, please copy and paste this web address: .... http://waconewsbeat.blogspot.com/2010/12/i-am-one-of-7-inspirational-video.html ..... inside an email message and title the subject line "I am one of the 7%". Happy Holidays!

Former KCEN-TV Anchor John Gilbert Joins KBTX In Bryan/College Station

2010-12-19T00:21:00.000-06:00

Former, KCEN-TV News anchor John Gilbert has announced that he will be joining the news team at KBTX-TV in Bryan/College Station in January. Many Waco area residents will remember John Gilbert from his eight years anchoring the news on Channel 6 in the Waco, Temple and Killeen market. Several weeks ago, John Gilbert announced to views at KCEN-TV that he was leaving his job there and in later interviews he said that he would announce shortly where his new job would take him.

I have been impressed with the reporting and anchoring job John Gilbert has done at KCEN-TV and I have no doubt that he will soon be one of the most respected television news anchors in his new home in Bryan and College Station at KBTX-TV. In some ways, John Gilbert is returning home by moving from the Waco TV market - to just 90 miles south of Waco down Highway 6 to College Station. John Gilbert earned his bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University in 1976, so the Bryan/College Station area will be familiar territory for him.

My sister attended Texas A&M in the early 1980's on a full tennis scholarship and she and her husband have called College Station, Texas home ever since. On special occasions and holiday's, my wife and I visit she and her family and I look forward to watching John Gilbert on television in College Station during our future visits. In my opinion, KCEN-TV's loss is KBTX-TV's gain in hiring a first class news anchor in John Gilbert. If memory serves me correctly, KCEN-TV was/is still a part of the cable television line-up in College Station, so many local residents there have most likely already seen Gilbert in action.

Long Delays When Renewing Texas Drivers License

2010-12-18T00:08:00.000-06:00

The wait time to receive a drivers license renewal in the mail from the State of Texas is currently around 45 days. Luckily, for most Texans - they only need to renew their drivers license every six years. For months now, I have heard horror stories from friends and coworkers about the hours of wait time when visiting the Texas DPS office in Waco. So, when my drivers license was about to expire in early December - I decided to use the online service provided by the State of Texas at http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/DriverLicense/. It took only a matter of a few minutes to renew my Texas drivers license there, so I expected that my renewal permit would follow in about three or four weeks.

When I renewed my Texas Drivers License on the Texas Department of Public Safety website, I was told that my renewal drivers license would be mailed within three to four weeks from the day I ordered it. However, it really took almost six weeks before my license finally arrived in the mail - which was about a week after the my old drivers license expired. Friday night, I checked that Texas DPS web page again at http://www.txdps.state.tx.us/DriverLicense/customer_service/Contact.asp and it now it says that Texas drivers licenses are taking between 35 and 45 days to arrive in the mail. I'm glad the DPS revised their website, because it is impossible to reach them on their posted telephone number of 512-424-2600. I tried to reach someone at that number for days, but it was always busy.

I know that the State of Texas, along with almost every other government agency in the country is trying to save money. My guess is that the reason it is taking so long waiting in line to renew a drivers license in Texas is because of budget cuts. However, even during tough economic times - the State of Texas needs to run a good ship - where state requirements, like a drivers license's, are handled in a professional and timely manner. Just be advised that if you are renewing your Texas drivers license in person, be prepared to wait in line two hours or more and if you have the choice of renewing online - please do so, but be aware that it will still take almost 45 days before your new or renewal Texas drivers license arrives in the mail.

Waco Women Arrested On Identity Theft Charges

2010-12-16T23:33:00.000-06:00

Four local women are in custody tonight after a joint local and federal investigation found that they allegedly committed identity theft. Angela Cuellar, Yolanda Ramos, Diane Rivera, and Christine Elifritz are all in police custody after their arrest today. The criminal complaint against these four Waco women claims that while Angela Cuellar was employed by Integrated Biometrics Technology, she stole background applications from the company, which should have been destroyed. Angela Cuellar was employed by Integrated Biometrics Technology from March through July of 2008. It is unclear right now, how much damage was done to the credit histories and reputations of the people who found their most personal information (Social Security Numbers and Dates of Birth) in the wrong hands.

If these charges are eventually proven beyond a responsible doubt to a jury, all four of these women could face 15 years or more in prison. Early reports suggest that many of the applications that were allegedly stolen by Cuellar were from applicants in the field of education. Fingerprint Applicant Services of Texas (FAST) is a service that is used by administrators in education to check out the background information of people they are expecting to hire as employees. The information that is required for these background checks, includes a persons Social Security Number, Date of Birth and other private information. I wonder why a new employee was granted unsupervised access to all this private information and also why there were not better checks and balances to make sure the information was not removed from this business?

Identity Theft has become a billion dollar problem in the United States and it appears that this serious crime is not slowing down. For thousands of people each year, the unwanted news that someone they don't even know has stolen their identity and racked up thousands of dollars worth of debt without their knowledge - must be a horrifying thing to experience. My personal opinion is, that with the popularity of easy/fast credit in recent years, the act of identity theft has grown quicker simply - because most retailers want to sell their products to consumers without any wait time. More on this story as it develops.

Police Arrest Jose Maria Garcia After Crime Spree Yesterday

2010-12-15T00:03:00.000-06:00

The alleged man behind a violent crime spree in the Waco area yesterday was arrested today in a traffic stop in Killeen, Texas. Jose Maria Garcia was taken into custody, after his ex-wife called police and told them where he was located. Yesterday afternoon, during an attempted traffic stop - Jose Garcia allegedly ran from a deputy who was trying to stop him, wrecked his car and then proceeded to drive his damaged vehicle into the deputy - trapping him between his car and the door. A short time later, Garcia showed up at a Bruceville, Tx Cefco convenience store where he shot a man from Tennessee several times and stole his car. The deputy was treated and released from Scott & White Hospital, but the man who was shot is still a patient at Hillcrest Medical Center in Waco.

As of right now, no one seems to know why Jose Garcia allegedly decided to go on a crime spree Monday afternoon. However, folks in and around the Bruceville-Eddy area will certainly sleep better tonight knowing that an arrest has been made in this case. Garcia is a temporary contract for Northrop Grumman on Fort Hood. The injured parties in Monday afternoons crime spree are, Falls County Sheriff’s Deputy Lou Lourcey and the civilians name who was shot before his car was stolen is Clark McCabe from Nashville, Tennessee. At last report, Mr. McCabe was still listed in serious condition at Hillcrest Medical Center.

Extreme Home Makeover Salado (100th Episode)

2010-12-13T01:16:00.001-06:00

Sometime in February, the ABC hit show Extreme Home Makeover will celebrate it's 100th episode and that show will profile an injured solider (Patrick Zeigler) and his new bride (Jessica Zeigler). On Sunday, local Waco ABC television station KXXV-TV (Channel 25) was on hand when Extreme Home Makeover host Ty Pennington spoke his trademark phrase: "Move That Bus". For almost one week, thousands of volunteers from Central Texas and beyond - pitched in with free labor to turn a home that was not friendly to a wounded warrior - into a classic homestead that any human being would be proud to call home. Knowing that my own friends and neighbors from Waco, Temple and Killeen were willing to show up and give of their time to help out this brave American, gives me goose bumps.

I am not a regular viewer of Extreme Home Makeover on ABC-TV, but you can bet that I will be watching in February when the Zeigler families new home is profiled on national television. According to broadcast reports from KXXV-TV, thousands of people were on hand Sunday afternoon when Extreme Home Makeover filmed the last segment of their show about Patrick Zeigler. Another positive aspect of Extreme Home Makeover's visit to Central Texas was the fact that for the first time in my memory, KWTX-TV covered an event where another local television station was being made the center of attention. While Waco's Channel 10 did not mention the name of the TV show that made Patrick Zeigler's dream of a home makeover possible, they did cover the story and and in doing so did the right thing during this holiday season.

Best Steaks In Waco Found At 135 Prime

2010-12-12T01:23:00.000-06:00

For the second time in as many years, my company Christmas party was held last night at 135 Prime Restaurant in Waco. When it comes to high end dinning, there is no better place to eat than 135 Prime. At last years Christmas party, I dinned on a New York Strip steak and this year I picked their delicious Filet steak. Both the New York Strip and the Filet were easily the best steak meals I have enjoyed in Waco in the past 25 years. Last night, my wife thoroughly enjoyed the Salmon at 135 Prime. The drinks, appetizers and atmosphere were outstanding as well. While there are many good restaurants to enjoy a meal at in the Waco area, there are only a handful of places that even come close to a restaurant like 135 Prime - which I consider to be at least four and maybe even a Five Star establishment.

Everyone who loves to dine out, knows that great food is only one part of what makes a restaurant exceptional. At Waco's 135 Prine, not only is the food second to none in the area - but the atmosphere is perfect, especially around the holiday season. There are backrooms available at 135 Prime, which have expanded seating for large parties - like the one my company held this weekend. It's extremely easy to lose yourself from the first minute you enter 135 Prime. The front door entrance gives a full display of most of the restaurant, but the dim lighting causes this very open experience to seem very personal - even though other patrons are very near by.

Finally, I would like to complement the waiter staff that took care of us at 135 Prime. No one could ask for a better group of people than the ones who waited tables at 135 Prime during our company Christmas Party. There are probably one hundred restaurants or more in the Waco area that serve steak. Over the past 20 plus years I have sampled most of them. Like many of you, I consider a great steak dinner just another part of enjoying a Texas lifestyle. If you are looking for cheap steak, then 135 Prime is not the place for you. However, if you really what to pull out all the stops and take a special person to an outstanding restaurant in the Waco, Texas area - then 135 Prime is the place to go.

Dan Henderson Of Uncle Dan's BBQ Is A Waco Legend

2010-12-11T01:51:00.000-06:00

Friday night, the wife and I visited a local Waco restaurant where we received a great meal and a wonderful dining experience. We have eaten at this restaurant many times over our 20 plus year marriage and we have never been disappointed with either the service or the food. The name of this restaurant is Uncle Dan's Barbecue, located on Lake Air drive just past Valley Mills. While the food is always good when we visit Uncle Dan's, the reason we keep returning to this establishment is because of it's owner Dan Henderson. Dan is a Waco legend, because he has served his famous dishes and outstanding BBQ sauce to regular and famous people all over the world. Sadly, with all the restaurant choices now available in the Waco area - it has been several months since our last visit to Uncle Dan's.

While we were going through the serving line, on Friday night, owner Dan Henderson came up and shook my hand and I commented to him that he never seemed to age that much. While we were dinning on brisket, sausage, turkey and their delicious yellow potato salad, we were entertained on the piano by a nice lady who was playing Christmas music. Unlike national chain restaurants, where there is a long line when waiting to be seated on a Friday night, Dan's BBQ in Waco, while busy - got us through the serving line quickly, so we would have time to enjoyed some of his wonderful BBQ meat and sauce. I also love to eat the cherry pie at Uncle Dan's. Unlike other restaurants, Uncle Dan's deserts seem to be made fresh at all hours of the day and night.

As we were leaving Uncle Dan's BBQ on Friday night, I remember feeling a little bit guilty because it had been several months since we had visited there for a meal. Uncle Dan's owner Dan Henderson is one of the hardest working men I have ever met. In addition to running his business on Lake Air Drive in Waco, he also owns another BBQ restaurant in Hewitt - that has one of the best drive through businesses in the area. Some folks may remember that Uncle Dan (Dan Henderson) served many special occasions at the President Bush family ranch when he was President of the United States. However, many of you might not remember that Uncle Dan has also catered many special events outside of Waco and even in foreign countries. If you have not visited a good home grown restaurant in a long time, one of your best choices is Uncle Dan's BBQ on Lake Air Drive in Waco and on Hewitt Drive in Hewitt.

Did Waco Woman Start Fire That Almost Killed Her?

2010-12-10T00:14:00.000-06:00

On Thursday, the Waco Fire Department issued an arrest warrant for Jennifer Matthews who was badly burned in a house fire in March of this year. Originally, Matthews told police that she had been kidnapped. For months, Jennifer Matthews underwent treatment for her severe burns at Parkland Hospital in Dallas. According to TV news reports on Thursday night, police have been unable to question Matthews about the fire that injured her to date. While Matthews has not been available for questioning by Waco police and fire department officials, investigators have been busy putting together exactly what happened that day in March when neighbors rushed to save Jennifer Matthews life after she ran from the garage of her own home engulfed in flames.

An employee of a gas station located at Valley Mills and Hilltop Drive told police that he remembered Jennifer Matthews when she came into his store to buy a gas container the day a fire, started with gasoline, broke out at her home. Police also, reportedly have video surveillance from the same gas station, which shows Matthews buying that gas container and filling it with gasoline at the same station shortly thereafter. According to Waco Fire Department officials, they have been trying to get Jennifer Matthews to turn herself in - but so far they have not heard anything from her. Fire department officials told reporters on Thursday night, that they hope Jennifer Matthews will turn herself in.

I still remember when I first heard about this story back in March. At the time, I remember hearing friends and coworkers talking about being afraid - because an alleged kidnapper was at large in Waco. I still hold out hope that Jennifer Matthews did not bring this tragedy on herself and I also hope that she will come forward and either help clear her name or face the truth of what she did. In addition to facing justice in a court-of-law, if Jennifer Matthews did start the fire that critically injured herself - she also owns the citizens of Waco an apology for creating a sense of fear and danger among Waco residents that did not really exist.

Extreme Home Makeover Comes To Waco-Temple-Killeen

2010-12-09T00:41:00.002-06:00

As most of you probably already know, the hit ABC TV show "Extreme Home Makeover" is filming in Central Texas this week. The show, searches around the nation to find families in need - who are living in substandard or worse housing situations. Patrick Zeigler and his fiance Jennifer Hansen are currently on an all expense paid vacation in Las Vegas - while scores of local residents and home building experts are putting a face-life on Zeighler's home near Salado, Texas. I have watched Extreme Home Makeover in the past and I think the work they perform for the needy is outstanding. While vacationing in Las Vegas, Patrick Zeigler and his fiance Hansen received another surprise, when Extreme Home Makeover producers surprised them with an all expense paid wedding when they return home to Central Texas.

Patrick Zeigler is an injured member of the United States Armed forces. Injuries he suffer in war while defending our country have made it very difficult for him to live in his current home, without some major modifications. Like they have done so many times before, Extreme Home Makeover has brought all the right people together to completely remodel the home of Patrick Zeighler within the span of only a few days. Until Extreme Home Makeover decided to help Patrick Zeigler, I don't recall a remodeling effort by them in the Central Texas area. When it comes to US soldiers who are injured in the line-of-duty, there is no limit most Waco area residents will to go to in order to help these brave citizens.

Sometime around the beginning of this weekend, Extreme Home Makeover will be finished with their work on Patrick Zeigler's home. I saw a few photographs on the Internet today of the progress being made out in Salado on his home and already I can tell that something special has been going on this Christmas right in our own backyard. To the people behind ABC Extreme Home Makeover, the dozens of volunteers who are giving of their time and Patrick Zeigler who was injured while serving this great country during war-time, I would like to say thank you. I have known that the Waco/Central Texas area has been a great place to live for well over 25 years now and the reason I continue to call this area my home is because of residents and professionals who are doing the right thing in Salado this week.

KCEN-TV (Waco) Replaces John Gilbert With Doug Currin

2010-12-08T00:00:00.058-06:00

KCEN-TV announced yesterday that Doug Currin will be joining their 5,6 & 10pm news beginning in January of 2011. A few weeks ago, former KCEN-TV news anchor John Gilbert announced that he was leaving the station after eight years of service. According to a bio, recently released on the KCEN-TV website, Doug Currin most recently worked in the news business for WBRE-TV in Scranton, Pennsylvania. In addition to his anchoring duties at WBRE, Currin has interviewed many famous and important people over the years including: Hillary Clinton, John McCain and former President Jimmy Carter.

Not long ago, KCEN-TV was sold to Dallas based "London Broadcasting Company". Since that change in ownership at KCEN-TV, there have been two big departures from their Waco-Temple-Killeen station. The first person was a well liked lady by the name of Kelley Barr - who was fired from her position over one year ago. Then about a week ago, the other half of that anchoring team - John Gilbert decided to quit his job. It's not clear whether or not London Broadcasting wanted to change both news anchors at KCEN-TV, but in hindsight that is exactly what happened. While I don't wish any ill will on current anchor Myra Arthur or Doug Currin who will replace John Gilbert in January - I will say that both new KCEN-TV news anchors have some pretty big shoes to fill.

I have lived in Waco since 1983. Over that period of time I have seen large market media companies come and go in the Waco-Temple-Killeen TV market. Many times in the past, new owners of TV stations in the Waco area have mistakenly thought that well polished, good looking news anchors are just what this market needs. However, large media companies many times underestimate the loyalty Waco-Temple-Killen residents place in anchors who have been around and stood the test of time. In Dallas, Houston or San Antonio it might make sense to bring in nice looking and well polished news anchors to improve the ratings at a TV station - but that same system does not work in Central Texas. The decision to fire Kelley Barr and now with the voluntary choice to quit made by John Gilbert, my hope is that London Broadcasting will give Myra Arthur and Doug Currin enough time for local residents to get to know them, before they make another change.

Five People Save Four Lives In Marlin Texas Fire

2010-12-07T01:34:00.000-06:00

On Monday, a Christmas miracle came early in the City of Marlin, Texas as five new hero's were born. Instead of walking away when a neighbor was in need, five citizens of Marlin, Texas put themselves in harms way to save someone else. The names of those brave Marlin residents are - Pearlie Mitchel - Jammie Steele - Carlton Haynes - Rodney Scruggs and Lahazel Davis. On Monday afternoon, sometime around 2pm, a house caught on fire at Commerce and Conoly in the City of Marlin, Texas. Inside that home were four people - an adult woman and three children. When these new hero's arrived on the scene, the woman and a child were laying in the doorway of the burning home - while the other two children were still inside the burning house.

Without a thought for their own personal safety, five regular citizens took it upon themselves to rush into the flames of a fully engulfed house fire and save this woman and three children from possible death. The fire chief in Marlin, Texas (Curtis Keener) became emotional as he told reporters at the scene about the bravery of these five citizens who saved the lives of four other people before the fire department arrived. Fire Chief Curtis Keener said the he will call attention to the bravery of these remarkable citizens the next time the Marlin City Council meets. Someone told me once that no human being really knows exactly what they will do when called upon to risk their own life to save someone else until that time comes. This story bares out that wisdom.

The City of Marlin is located about 30 miles from Waco, Texas. I have traveled through there on many occasions in my travels to visit friends and family in the Bryan-College Station area. Little did I know during those trips through Marlin that there were some future local resident hero's that did not even know they existed before Monday. In the spirit of Christmas, nothing makes me feel better about the Waco area than knowing that we have hero's living around here - who will put their lives on the line to save people they do not or hardly know. Once again, the names of these new Central Texas hero's are ( Pearlie Mitchel - Jammie Steele - Carlton Haynes - Rodney Scruggs and Lahazel Davis) and may God bless them all.

Did Waco Police Make Mistakes In Thanksgiving Death?

2010-12-03T01:23:00.000-06:00

Rodney Green, of Waco, is dead and three Waco police officers are on administrative leave after a strange traffic accident on Thanksgiving Day 2010. 36-year-old Rodney Green was involved in a one car traffic accident on Thanksgiving Day and shortly thereafter he was none responsive, taken to a Waco hospital and declared dead. It's what happened in the middle of this story that is making some Waco resident wonder if three local police officers acted within police department guidelines that day. The most troubling part of this story is that when a person is involved in a traffic accident, Waco police are send to the scene to gather evidence and help injured people. However, rather than helping Rodney Green - their actions might have lead to his death.

According to Waco police reports, when they arrived at the scene of Rodney Green's traffic accident - he was not acting right and became combative with the police. Somewhere in the middle of all of this, one Waco police officer drew his or her taser weapon and shocked Rodney Green to try and get him to comply with their commands. This tasering of Rodney Green occurred after he was placed in leg restraints, which he broke apart according to police reports. Shortly after Waco police used a taser weapon against Rodney Green, he stopped responding at all to police officers and at that point an ambulance was called to take him to the hospital where he later died.

There were some suggestions that Rodney Green may have been under the influence of some type of drug at the time of his traffic accident, but those reports have not been confirmed at this time. Mr. Green's body was sent to the medical examiners office in Dallas for an autopsy and full toxicology screening that might take up to 12 weeks to be completed. Right now, the biggest question is whether or not these three Waco police officers followed proper department procedure in this case? Time and further investigation will determine, if all or any of these police officers overreached that day. There are strict rules on the use of deadly and less than deadly force in the Waco Police Department and a full investigation by the Waco PD, DA's office and Dallas Medical Examiner will hopefully get to the bottom of what really happened that day.

KCEN-TV (Waco) Anchor John Gilbert Quits News Job

2010-12-02T01:53:00.000-06:00

Tuesday night, KCEN-TV's John Gilbert told views that he would not be returning as an anchor on the 6pm and 10pm news. I am sorry to see John Gilbert leave the Central Texas TV market, because I thought he was doing a fantastic job anchoring the news on KCEN-TV. A little over one year ago, John Gilbert's co-anchor Kelley Barr was fired from KCEN-TV and replaced by Myra Arthur. Soon, there will be two new faces on KCEN-TV news and I wonder if that is really such a good thing for the TV station? Most people who watch local TV for their news in the Waco area tend to like consistency and not constant turnover - especially in the people who sit in the anchor chair.

For the past eight years of John Gilbert's employment at KCEN-TV, I have tuned in nightly to their broadcast to catch up on what has been happening around the Waco area. Now that both Kelley Barr and John Gilbert are no longer anchors on KCEN-TV, I will consider watching either KWTX or KXXV for local news in the future. I am one of those middle aged folks who likes to see consistency in the position of news anchor and with two news anchor departures at KCEN-TV within the past year - there won't be much consistency left for local viewers to appreciate. From all outward appearances, John Gilbert left KCEN-TV on good terms - but his contract with the TV station will not allow him to work at another TV station in the Waco market for the next year.

Change is just a normal part of life, but after Kelley Barr's firing and now the voluntary choice of John Gilbert to quit as anchor on the prime-time edition of KCEN-TV news, I really wonder what is going on behind the scenes at this television station now that it is under new ownership. Sometimes new owners of television stations, what to make quick changes in on-air personalities with the hope that their efforts will translate into higher ratings and increased advertising revenues. Sadly, many outside owners of local Waco television stations make the mistake of thinking that well polished bubble headed anchors that do well in larger markets like Dallas - will somehow also help their ratings prospects in Waco and the rest of Central Texas.

Baylor Bears Outmatched In Stillwater Battle With OSU

2010-11-07T01:21:00.001-05:00

The 2010 Baylor Bears football team has proven to many people around the nation that they are a much improved team, but as was witnessed in Stillwater, Oklahoma on Saturday - the Bears still have a bunch of improving to do before they move from a good team to a great one. There will be many things written about the Baylor/OSU game on Saturday, but the truth is that the Baylor Bears were beaten by a much better team.

It's hard for me to write those words because my blood is filled with Baylor football fever. However, one thing I took away from the "blowout" beating the Bears took at OSU yesterday - was that it is much more painful to lose a college football game when a team is having a winning year - than during years when everyone expects your favorite team to lose. It has been a long time since I felt such eagerness and excitement at watching the Baylor Bears play football on Saturday afternoon during the 2010 season.

When the Baylor Bears defeated the Texas Longhorns - I was on "Cloud 9". However, after watching Baylor get punched by OSU Saturday - I learned that Baylor still has a lot of growing and work to do over the next few years. I hope that all Baylor Bears football fans continue to support the team though the rest of this season. It could very well turn out that at seasons end, OSU will be declared one of the very best teams in the nation in 2010 and that fact will transform Baylor fans present disappointment into pride for this years team.

Channel 10 Anchor (KWTX) Julie Hays Is Pregnant

2010-11-01T23:48:00.000-05:00

Monday night on the Channel 10 (KWTX) news, co-anchor Julie Hays announced that she is pregnant. I want to be one of the first people in Central Texas to congratulate her on this exciting news. Julie Hays has been around Channel 10 for a long time and since her promotion to co-anchor on the KWTX-TV 5, 6 and 10pm news, she has done an outstanding job. For several weeks, my wife and I thought that Julie Hays had been wearing maturity cloths on the newscast - but we were not 100% sure of the good news until Monday night.

Channel 10 made a big deal out of Julie Hays pregnancy on Monday night and it became clear listening to her that there will be more news to come in the weeks and months ahead on Channel 10 as her pregnancy develops. With all the worlds negative news reported daily, it was nice to hear a little bit of good news on Monday night and I for one am happy for Julie Hays, her husband and extended family as a new member joins the rest in the year 2011. If you would like to watch Rusty Garret and Gordon Collier help celebrate Julie Hays good news, there is a video link at the bottom of this blog post.

Baylor Football Fever Arrives In Waco Texas

2010-10-31T00:43:00.004-05:00

Last night, the 2010 Baylor Bears football team accomplished what many people thought to be impossible when they traveled down Interstate 35 and beat the Texas Longhorns in front of almost 100,000 unfriendly fans. Before the 2010 Baylor Bears football season got underway, there was an ad campaign for the team - which proclaimed that they would "Rise Up" this season.

For once - the team, coaches and marketing folks at Baylor University got it right and I am so happy to see our hometown team compete and win in the Big 12 conference. During last nights Baylor game against UT, I found myself switching back and forth between that game and the World Series where the Texas Rangers won their first World Series game in the history of the team. So far, it has been a great weekend in Waco and if the Dallas Cowboys win today - it will turn out to be a perfect weekend for me.

While it is true that without starting quarterback Robert Griffin III, the Baylor Bears would not be able to pull off this years winning power offense. There is much more to the 2010 Baylor Bears football program than just having the best quarterback in all of college football. This year, special teams and the Baylor defense are also a power to be reckoned with. After passing last nights big test against UT, the sky is the limit for this years Baylor Bears football team.

Matt Baker 48 Hours Update On Saturday

2010-10-28T00:43:00.000-05:00

My wife and I have been waiting for many months for the CBS show "48 Hours" to do an update on Matt Baker since he was convicted of murdering his wife. Many months ago, it was front page news across the nation as disgraced preacher Matt Baker went on trial here in Waco, Texas.

At first, I believed the story that Matt Baker had proclaimed for years that his wife committed suicide. However, as I followed his murder trial at the McLennan County Courthouse - I was convinced that he did indeed murder his wife and for a man of God to act in such a disgraceful moral way was also unforgivable.

There was another person in this whole preacher Matt Baker mess and her name is Vanessa Bulls. As Matt Baker's murder trial unfolded, it became clear that he not only solicited Ms. Bulls into an adulterous affair - but he also confided in her that he wanted to kill his wife. However, during the years after the murder of Matt Baker's wife - Vanessa Bulls remained silent and hoped to one day be the next Mrs. Matt Baker.

To me, the fact that Vanessa Bulls made a deal with the McLennan County District Attorney's office to not face jail time in order to gain her testimony - is still something that bothers me to this day. If I had my way, both Matt Baker and Vanessa Bulls would each be sitting in a jail cell in a State of Texas prison.

Will Chet Edwards Win Again In 2010?

2010-10-27T01:49:00.000-05:00

In less than a week we will know if long term Central Texas Congressman Chet Edwards will win again in his race against Bill Flores for the US Congress. Honestly, I don't see how Chet Edwards has a chance this year against Bill Flores, but anyone who has followed Chet Edwards career in the Congress has seen him pull out some long shot election victories before.

The biggest thing working against Congressman Chet Edwards in 2010 is the party he is affiliated with (Democratic) and the fact that a vast majority of Central Texans believe that President Obama is doing a poor job as our leader. In some ways, Chet Edwards has tried to separate himself from the President of the United States - especially with his vote against Obama Care. However, there are other votes that Congressman Chet Edwards has made that have left him in hot water with Central Texas voters - especially with his support of the TARP law that bailed out big banks and Wall Street.

Right now, with one week left to go before Election Day - most polls show Bill Flores in the lead against incumbent Congressman Chet Edwards. However, if Edwards is able to pull out even a small victory in the congressional elections of 2010 - he will be in a similar situation to the late Senator Robert Byrd who remained in Congress until his last breath.

Congressman Chet Edwards Plays Nice In TV Ad

2010-09-16T23:17:00.001-05:00

Tonight, for the first time, I saw a television ad paid for by the reelection campaign of Chet Edwards that was very nice in it's delivery. Like many other people, I get angry at all the negative campaign ads that are run during election years that try to demonize an opponent. In 2010, Congress Chet Edwards has run his fair share of negative campaign ads and his challenger Bill Flores has done so as well.

Tonight's new Chet Edwards television ad featured Congressman Edwards standing in what appeared to be a wheat field - talking about how his efforts in Washington D.C. saved the Waco VA hospital from being close down. Unlike other ads from Chet Edwards and Bill Flores, this new positive ad from Chet Edwards was 100% truthful, because I believe the Waco VA would have been shutdown without the pressure put to bear on the Veterans administration by our local Waco representative.

Over the past 30 years, TV commercials run by both Republicans and Democrats have become so nasty that most people just turn their brains off to politics, because they don't trust either side. I have supported Congressman Edwards in the past, but I believe he has an uphill battle in 2010 - simply because he is an incumbent running in a year where a "throw the bums out" attitude is extremely high. That said, I want to thank Congressman Edwards for at least running one positive political ad during this election season.

Waco Tribune Herald Announces Online Plus

2010-09-16T00:11:00.000-05:00

Like thousands of other Waco residents, I subscribe to home delivery of the Waco Tribune Herald newspaper. For the past several years, everyone has been able to pretty much read everything that is found in our local paper via the Tribune Herald website - but that has now changed.

For seven day per week subscribers of the Waco Tribune Herald, free access to their entire website is now included in your subscription price. However, Waco residents who do not subscribe to the Tribune Herald will now be limited to only certain sections of this newspapers website unless they pay a subscription.

Newspapers around the nation are looking for new ways to replace the lost revenue they have experienced over the past five or six years. The current US recession has all but dried up many national newspaper advertising resources, so the Waco Tribune Herald and hundreds of other newspapers around the country are desperately seeking new sources of revenue. It will be interesting to watch and see if the Waco Tribune Herald's "Online Plus" feature is successful.

Waco Texas News Updates From Twitter

Sarah Palin Brings Pro-Life Message To Waco

2010-09-14T23:43:00.000-05:00

On Tuesday night, former Governor of Alaska and Vice-Presidential candidate Sarah Palin gave a speech about the importance of Pro-Life issues in Waco. A large crowd showed up to hear Sarah Palin speak on Tuesday night, but the big news surrounding Palin today did not originate here in Waco - but about one thousands miles away in the State of Delaware where a Sarah Palin backed candidate won over a well funded GOP backed insider.

While most members of the liberal media establishment take great pleasure in putting Sarah Palin down at every turn, grass roots Americans not only like Sarah Palin as a person - but they love her message of replacing decades long career politicians in Washington with some new uncorrupted citizens. As Sarah Palin was speaking in Waco on Tuesday night, the grass roots party of regular citizens she supports (The Tea Party) were busy turning out frustrated voters to the polls where they carried out a mini house cleaning.

Here in the Waco area, long time Congressman Chet Edwards could find himself the victim of voters in November, who more closely aligned themselves with Sarah Palin's message than his. Congressman Edwards is in the wrong place at the wrong time when it comes to being an incumbent in 2010 and I believe he could find himself turned out of office in November - if major "Tea Party" figures like Sarah Palin decide to back his challenger Bill Flores.

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Will Bill Flores Finally End Chet Edwards Career?

2010-09-14T02:11:00.000-05:00

It's hard to know for sure, if Bill Flores will be successful where other GOP hopefuls have failed in their attempts to defeat long time Congressman Chet Edwards at the polls in November. In the past, I have said that it would be a mistake for anyone to bet against Chet Edwards on election day - because of his ability to take an opponent and turn them into hamburger with slick TV campaign ads that exploit any mistake they have made in their lives.

However, 2010 is a different kind of election year and with redistricting in Texas favoring GOP candidates and an extremely angry electorate - Congressman Chet Edwards days might be numbered in the US House of Representatives. That said, I would still not bet good money against Congressman Edwards winning in November - because he has proven himself time and time again to be one of the best political campaigners in the country.

I have watched carefully the TV ads that have been run from both the Bill Flores and Chet Edwards campaigns for Congress so far and I must say that I have not seen an ad yet from Congressman Chet Edwards that I would consider a "knock out punch" in his battle for reelection against Bill Flores. There are two things that give Bill Flores a better chance at winning against Chet Edwards in 2010 than previous GOP candidates have had. First, Flores lives in the Bryan/College Station area and he should carry that area with a high percentage of the vote and second, I have never seen the voters in Central Texas more angry at Washington incumbents as they are right now.

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Zeb's Backyard Grill | Good Eating In The Waco Area

2010-09-05T01:46:00.001-05:00

My wife and I visited Zeb's Backyard Grill in Hewitt last night. We both had been talking about eating at a new restaurant recently and Zeb's was our choice. Let me start off by saying that our experience at Zeb's Backyard Grill was excellent from a food quality standpoint, but the service or lack there of was not good at all. While I ordered their rib eye steak, my wife decided to try their cheese burger. Both of us were very satisfied with the taste of our food and for me, I am usually very picky about rib eye steak quality when dining out.

One of the nice treats I received while dining at Zeb's Backyard Grill in Hewitt was a dinner salad which was delivered to our table several minutes before my rib eye steak was brought out. I was very impressed with my salad from Zeb's, because it was loaded with much more than just lettuce. In fact, there were so many different vegetables put into that salad - I was hard pressed to discover all the ingredients before I had finished eating it. My wife's cheese burger from Zeb's Backyard Grill was large and very tasty. In fact, her cheese burger was so big - she brought half of it home and I ate the other half later in the day.

Compared to when I moved to the Waco, Texas area back in 1983 when there were few choices when it came to eating out. In 2010 there are restaurants on almost every street corner. I would highly recommend a trip to Zeb's Backyard Grill the next time you are hungry for a good hamburger or a rib eye steak. Their prices are affordable, but don't visit there with high expectations of friendly service. Our meal was affordable and the restaurant was clean when we visited.

Waco Texas News Updates From Twitter

1886 Panoramic Map of Waco, Texas by Norris, Wellge & Co.

Will Baylor Bears "Rise Up" Campaign Lead To Victory?

2010-08-29T23:22:00.001-05:00

If you live anywhere near Waco, Texas - it is impossible not to hear on the radio or see on television dozens of commercials declaring that in 2010 the Baylor Bears football team will "Rise Up". I must admit that these new commercials are appealing, but they are going to look stupid if the 2010 Baylor Bears football team does not come through on the field once the season gets underway. The first few "Baylor Will Rise Up" commercials I saw on television profiled some of the players the team has great faith in this year. In recent weeks, the head coach of the Baylor Bears has been shown making the same "I will rise up" pledge.

No one in Waco wants the Baylor Bears football team to win games more than I do, but I am afraid that the media hype about how well the team will play this year does not leave Baylor University much wiggle room if the football season turns out to be a disaster. To me, the "I will rise up" campaign was created by Baylor to sell as many season tickets this football season as possible - but if the Bears don't win this year, what will promoters at Baylor University try next season? The truth is that no one at Baylor knows yet how well the football team will play this year, so that makes this "rise up" media campaign nothing more than hype for money.

There is only one way to make sure the seats are filled to capacity for all Baylor Bears home games and that is for the team to start a winning tradition. If that happens, there will be no need for media hype to sell season tickets, because fans from Waco and all over the country will flock to see their games without a concern for how much those tickets cost. I love Baylor athletics and while many sports at Baylor University have become competitive nationally, the football program still lags far behind. I hope that in 2010 the Baylor Bears football program will "rise up" and if they do there will be no need to hype season ticket sales for home games next year, because every game will be sold out before the football season begins.

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Baylor Bears adidas Grey Fleece Sweatpants

Time-Warner Cable Waco Battles Networks Again

2010-08-29T00:00:00.032-05:00

For years now, major cable television providers like Time-Warner Cable (Waco) have been battling major cable networks like ESPN over the fees that are charged to carry their programming. Now, Time-Warner Cable subscribers in the Waco area are facing another blackout threat - if Time-Warner Cable does not pony up even more money for powerhouse channels like ESPN and Disney. For cable subscribers in Waco proper, there is another cable television choice available in Grande Communication and through several satellite companies.

In years past, big cable company's like Time-Warner Cable were able to hold the line on some of the rate increases demanded by popular cable channels like ESPN. However, in more and more cities - there are secondary cable companies who would love to steal customers away from Time-Warner Cable - if they decide to let major channels like ESPN go off their service. These new contract issues between Disney and Time-Warner Cable in Waco will not effect our other major cable television company Grande Communications and I can only image how high the jump in subscribers at Grande would be, if Time-Warner Cable were stupid enough to lose ESPN from their line-up.

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Oilfield, Texas A Tex Waco Novel by Larry Hill (Oil Field, Texas A Tex Waco Novel by Larry Hill)