Good morning, Abilene.

On July 3, Waldo Rodriguez—a 38-year-old Cuban who worked for Baird ISD—was detained by ICE and taken to Prairieland Detention Center, leaving his family and the school district without his support.

His wife Sylvia and local school officials now seek legal aid and community help to cope with the loss of his income and ongoing work projects.

Barnes & Noble opened its new store in the Shops at Abilene—Catclaw Dr. on Wednesday morning with author Monica Garner cutting the ribbon and signing copies of her book 'Summer on Cape May'; the store now offers books, toys, and games to local readers.

Texas State Technical College will launch three new technical programs this fall at its Abilene and Sweetwater campuses, starting September 2.

The Abilene campus will host a Plumbing and Pipefitting Technology program in its new Power and Mechanical Center — while Sweetwater introduces Building Construction Technology and Culinary Arts with $500 scholarships available.

Abilene ISD announced its Adult Education facility will close Friday, Aug.

29 due to a lack of federal funding—students planning to take GED tests should make other arrangements. The district said it will resume testing and preparation services if funding is restored.

The 42nd Annual Tour De Gap will take place Saturday at the Old Settlers’ Reunion Grounds in Buffalo Gap as hundreds of cyclists ride to support Presbyterian Medical Care Mission—assisting low income and uninsured adults with affordable care.

Registration closed Wednesday night, and riders can sign up again when it reopens Friday at 10 a.m. until 7:15 a.m. Saturday.

Kulture Con Grand Opening

11 AM – 6 PM — Abilene Convention Center — Call for pricing — Experience a day of games, entertainment, and networking at the grand opening of Kulture Original.

Oak Ridge Boys: American Made Farewell Tour

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Tickets required — Enjoy an unforgettable night with timeless country hits from The Oak Ridge Boys.

Perspectives 2025 Seeing Beyond the Diagnosis Conference

8 AM – 3 PM — Region 14 Education Services Center — Free entry — A day of learning focused on resources for families, caregivers, and professionals.

CRÜEligans Tribute Band Performance

8 PM - 12 AM — Heff's Burgers — Free entry — Experience a rocking tribute to the legendary Mötley Crüe with CRÜEligans in a lively burger joint setting.