Good morning, Abilene.

Over the weekend, Mama Bear Beauty Supply on Cottonwood Street offered free hair styling to kids returning to school — volunteer stylists gave braids, cuts, and extensions while saving families up to $80 per child.

The two-day service showed strong community support and the shop plans to expand the program next year.

Texas Gun and Knife Show is coming to the Abilene Convention Center this weekend with vendors from across the state displaying guns, knives, holsters, and more.

The event runs Saturday, August 16 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, August 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.—another show is scheduled for October 18 and 19.

Two motorcycle riders were in serious condition after a car crash in south Abilene on Wednesday morning when a pickup truck allegedly ran a red light and crashed into a plumbing van (heading eastbound on South 11 St) that veered into oncoming traffic and hit a motorcycle, sending the riders through a fence into a nearby yard before they were taken to the hospital.

A heavy police presence on Sherry Lane near Long Early Learning Center led to an evacuation shortly after 5 p.m. on Wednesday as several police units and a SWAT vehicle arrived with no clear reason given.

The Abilene ISD board met Monday and approved a five-member school library advisory council to help decide on library materials following Senate Bill 13 signed in June—Dr. John Kuhn noted the board reviewed existing challenge procedures and said the law’s impact remains uncertain.

During today’s Abilene City Council meeting, the Hendrick Regional Blood Center is accepting blood donations in the back parking lot of City Hall — located at 555 Walnut St. — from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

At its meeting Monday, the Abilene ISD board approved ongoing teacher pay raises as educators with three to four years of service received a $2,500 increase and those with five years got $5,000—officials said the raises will continue to honor their work.

The North 12th Street bridge over Catclaw Creek in Abilene reopened after emergency repairs fixed a dangerous hole in its deck—funded by the city's street maintenance fee that has been collected from utility customers since 2019.

Local business owner Steve Galvan said the reopening could help ease detours and restore access to local shops.

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.

Big Country 40th Annual AA Conference

6 PM – 10 AM — Abilene Convention Center — $30 — Celebrate recovery and fellowship in the spirit of community at this annual gathering.

West Texas Fair & Rodeo

5 PM - 11 PM — West Texas Fair & Rodeo — Varies by activity — Experience thrilling rodeo action and a vibrant carnival atmosphere with delicious food at this beloved local fair.

The Princess Bride Film Screening

7:30-9 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — $7 for adults, $6 for students, seniors, military, and children — Experience a beloved fairy tale adventure as true love conquers all in this classic film.