Good morning, Abilene.

On June 8, 2025, a severe storm damaged the KTXS station so much that its demolition is planned in the coming months as the team prepares to move operations to the Enterprise building (a new home for cherished broadcast memories).

Abilene will host the annual Dachshund Races and Rescued Dog Reunion at Nelson Park Festival Gardens on Thursday, June 11.

Gates open at 5 p.m. and races begin around 7 p.m.—the event features contests including best costume and owner and dog lookalike with free admission for all.

Elon Musk, CEO of Neuralink, claims the new brain chip could restore sight for the blind and aid those with spinal injuries, while Abilene’s New Hope Church pastor David Jewett advised residents to trust faith (a nod to the debate over miracles and technology).

Construction is underway on a 1,800 sqft Firehouse Subs at 2608 Enterprise Drive in Abilene; the new restaurant will be completed by Aug.

30 (with an estimated cost of $1.5 million) as the chain opens its second location.

Abilene hosts several weekend events, including the Children's Art + Literacy Festival starting June 11 across downtown venues with a storybook garden unveiling Thursday at 6:15, a Father’s Day Market at Bubblegum Boutique Saturday from 4 to 8, and Texas Triple Threat at Potosi Live on Saturday at 5.

McMurry University named Susan Decker as its first female athletic director, marking a milestone that will bring fresh leadership to the school’s sports programs.

Texas agriculture commissioner Sid Miller called for a pause on new AI data center approvals to study long-term impacts on productive farmland, the electric grid and water resources affecting Abilene and other communities (officials plan to research the industry before granting further approvals).

Animal health officials confirmed two new world screwworm cases in local livestock today, and they say protocols to safeguard farms will be implemented soon + further testing is ongoing.

Abilene City Council approved projects that will add 240 single-family lots, 800 multi-family units and 46 senior-living units to ease the housing shortage.

Realtors noted the developments, spurred by an AI data center and growth at Dyess Air Force Base, may gradually meet rising demand.

Residents at Bel-Air Creekside apartments have faced water and hot water outages for months, forcing the couple to resort to gym showers for basic needs.

They reported the recurring problem to the leasing office (no repairs have resolved the issue) and seek fair compensation for full billing despite service failures.

Culinary Camp Junior A

9 a.m. - 12 p.m. — The LIFT Center — $200 Non-Members | $175 Grace Members — Young chefs learn cooking basics while preparing meals to enjoy and share.

Nike Volleyball Camp at Abilene Youth Sports Association

9 a.m.-3 p.m. — Abilene Youth Sports Authority — $399 — Hone your volleyball skills with expert coaching in a fun and engaging environment.

Cars for Cancer Fundraiser

8 a.m. - 6 p.m. — Taylor County Coliseum — Donations appreciated — Enjoy a car show while supporting a good cause for Brilee.

Sherman Shadowcats vs. Abilene Flying Bison

7-11 p.m. — ACU Crutcher Scott Baseball Field — Tickets from $33 — Catch the excitement of local baseball match showcasing the Sherman Shadowcats against the Abilene Flying Bison.

2026 Firecracker 4 Miler

7:04 AM — Redbud Park — Save up to $10 — Celebrate Independence Day with a 4-mile run through Abilene's neighborhoods.