Good morning, Abilene.

From March 14—16, West Texas offers a busy weekend with events for families in Abilene and nearby areas, featuring the 67th Annual World's Largest Rattlesnake Roundup in Sweetwater along with canning classes, blood drives, scavenger hunts and live music shows at local libraries and malls. Additional events in San Angelo include a fish fry, art exhibits and comedy nights as organizers invite submissions by noon Wednesdays.

Faralito Restaurant reopened Monday for lunch after being closed for seven months when owner Mark Herrera suffered a compound fracture in a motorcycle accident and had surgery—while the restaurant remains open only for lunch as he regains his strength.

Taylor County grand jury indicted Ovalo man Hayden Hollingsworth on charges of bestiality & delivering a controlled substance to a minor after his arrest last December by the Taylor County Sheriff's Office.

On the fourth day of the trial, the prosecution rested its case while the defense began calling witnesses after Marvin Jones Jr. is accused of fatally shooting Eric Tonche on May 10, 2023—dashcam video and witness testimony add details about his police chase and subsequent arrest in Abilene.

Abilene City Council met Thursday to discuss ways to address homelessness when the West Texas Homelessness Network proposed a new liaison role to help connect police and nonprofits, and APD handled over 4,000 calls while spending about $385,000 last year.

City staff will soon meet with network reps to review funding and details—aiming to create a systematic approach to assist those without temporary housing.

Abilene City Council met Thursday morning and approved updates to the Lancium project and animal ordinances while entering a contract with BVNA for inspection services.

They also formed a paid parking program and swore in Mindy Patterson as interim City Manager.

Soda's Shamrock the Block Celebration

This event features local businesses in the SoDA District offering St. Patrick's Day specials, food, drinks, music, and a bike parade with a costume contest.

Abilene Christian Wildcats vs. Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks Baseball Game

This live baseball matchup features the Abilene Christian Wildcats taking on the Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks at the ACU Crutcher Scott Baseball Field.

March Madness Happy Hour

4-7 p.m. | Lone Star Dry Goods | Sponsored by Victory Bank | Enjoy drinks and sports chats with fellow West Texas AGC members.

Outlaws and Legends Music Festival 2025

The Outlaws and Legends Music Festival showcases a variety of artists in a one-stage format at the Back Porch of Texas, offering general admission and various packages for attendees.

The Wallflowers Concert

The Wallflowers will perform live at Back Porch of Texas in Abilene.

Open House at Desert Willow Trail

2-4 p.m. — 6510 Desert Willow Trail, Abilene — $360,000 — Explore a beautifully designed 3 bedroom home with luxurious features in the Elm Creek neighborhood.

Character 5K & Fun Run

10 AM – 12 PM — National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature — $30/person or Family Package Option — Participate in a character-themed fundraiser run for a great cause.

Abilene Christian Wildcats vs. Utah Tech Trailblazers

6:05 p.m. — ACU Crutcher Scott Baseball Field — Affordable tickets available — Catch the thrilling matchup between the Wildcats and Trailblazers live on the field.