Good morning, Abilene.

Tige Boats and the Community Foundation of Abilene announced a new fund and scholarship program on April 17 to support local initiatives and dependent children of current employees.

The programs will award annual grants to help meet community needs.

Paramount Theatre announced that longtime executive director George Levesque (who led the center since 2018) has been selected as Tampa Theatre's new CEO beginning in June.

The board has launched a national search for his successor while the theatre maintains its full schedule.

Local finance expert Jody Jones from Abilene Christian University says market swings, driven by overseas conflict, have put investors on edge and urges patience to avoid hasty decisions — a temporary ceasefire has sparked hope that uncertainty may soon ease.

OpenAI is launching the free Stargate OpenAI Academy for local businesses and educators to learn ChatGPT and other AI tools in Abilene.

The class aims to boost skills and prepare companies for a more tech-savvy future.

On April 16, the 111-year-old 1915 Historic Taylor County Courthouse was rededicated after an extensive restoration begun in 2019; about 100 people, including retired Judge Downing Bolls and current Judge Phil Crowley, attended the ribbon cutting to tour restored courtrooms and historic exhibits.

Texas residents can shop tax free for qualifying emergency supplies from 12:01 a.m. on Apr.

25 to midnight on Apr. 27 — items like household batteries, fuel containers, flashlights, hurricane shutters, emergency ladders and portable generators must meet price requirements. The Comptroller estimates tax savings of about $2.4 million during the holiday.

5K Run & 1 Mile Walk – Heirs to the Throne

9 AM – 3 PM — Redbud Park — Registration required — Family-friendly run and walk to support local mentorship programs and retreats.

Toadies Live at Potosi

7-10 p.m. — Fun Town RV Event Center — All Ages — Experience Toadies performing their new album 'The Charmer' crafted with the legendary Steve Albini.

Bob Dylan Concert

8:00 – 9:30 p.m. — Abilene Convention Center — Tickets on sale Dec 12 — Experience the legendary Bob Dylan on the final stop of his U.S. tour showcasing his iconic songwriting.

Big Country CASA’s Superhero 5K

9-10:30 a.m. — Williams Performing Arts Center — Registration required — Race to support CASA and enjoy a superhero-themed fun run.

2026 RHAA National Finals

10 AM – 10 AM — Western Heritage Classic — Entry fees apply — Watch some of the best ranch horses and riders compete for championship titles in Abilene, Texas.

24K Magic: Bruno Mars Tribute Show

7-8 p.m. — Potosi Live — $30 and $57 — Experience the electrifying energy of the #1 Bruno Mars tribute band while supporting a scholarship fund.

TLCA Eagles Spring Market

4-7 p.m. — Elm Creek at Wylie Subdivision — Support local vendors — Enjoy a fun shopping experience with student and local vendors for Mother’s Day weekend.

Big Country Veterans Expo and Car Show

9 AM - 2 PM — Taylor County Coliseum — Free entry — Discover essential resources for veterans while enjoying a fun car show.