Sales tax rebate down from previous year
WACO - Waco's sales tax rebate for March is down more than 17% from last year.
The city's check for March is $1.66 dollars.
The rebates reflect sales in January.
Officials meet to fix I-35 congestion
WACO - State officials say relieving traffic on I-35 is a top priority.
The Texas Department of Transportation officials held a meeting in Waco to discuss the situation with local officials.
Some ideas included extending state Highway 130 and building a high speed rail system that would connect Dallas, Houston and San Antonio using the Killeen-Temple area as a central hub.
Officials say they want public input. They will present ideas next month to four advisory committees to develop a plan.
Defeated candidate Wilson supporting opponent, candidate Flores
WACO - Defeated U.S. House hopeful Chuck Wilson says he will support his former opponent Bill Flores in a run off.
Flores is facing Republican Rob Curnock for the seat.
Wilson says Flores shares a common rural experience with local residents.
Candidates vie to replace Hutchison
It is not exactly clear if or when Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison will resign her senate seat as she promised.
However, it isn't stopping those who have their eyes set on her chair.
Former Secretary of State Roger Williams is among those getting ready for the possible opening.
Others who have expressed interest include fellow Republicans Michael Williams and Elizabeth Ames Jones, both railroad commissioners.
So far one Democrat, former State Comptroller John Sharp has said he too will run.
State senator stepping down after a week
UNDATED - State Senator Kip Averitt will be stepping down later this month.
The Republican's announcement on Monday, comes just a week after he won his primary race.
Averitt cited health concerns.
A special election will be held in may to fill his vacancy.
Shooting at Dallas bank
DALLAS - Shots were reported around 11 a.m. at the United Texas Bank.
The bank is located on the first floor of a multi-story building off Merit Drive.
Reports indicate three people suffered injuries including the gunman.
According to police the two victims were a father and son.
The investigation is ongoing.
Waco ISD teacher allegedly slaps student
WACO - A Waco ISD teacher is suspended for allegedly slapping a student on Tuesday.
It happened at Meadowbrook Elementary School.
Officials say the child became unruly and spit on the teacher, after which she hit him several times in the face.
Unemployment rises in McLennan County
WACO - Unemployment increased in McLennan County between December and January.
The McLennan County rate went to 7.4 percent in January from last December's 6.8 percent, according to numbers released Thursday.
The number of unemployed rose from 7,900 to 8,600.
The Texas Workforce Commission says the increase is a result of more people looking to work rather than job loss.
Lady Bears star player suspended 2 games
WACO - Baylor freshman Brittney Griner will miss two games after punching a Texas Tech player.
NCAA rules required at least a one-game suspension.
Griner is Baylor's top scorer, rebounder and shot-blocker.
43rd annual Caritas fundraiser
Caritas of Waco is hosting their 43rd annual 'Feast of Caring' event tonight at McLennan Community College.
The 'feast' is an evening that features a simple meal of bread and soup to help attendees empathize with the struggles of those who have serious needs in their lives.
This year's guest speaker will be Grant Teaf, former university of Baylor head football coach.
The event also is the key fundraising event.
Caritas aids approximately 1,500 families a month with emergency food and services.
