Good morning, Abilene.

The Abilene Zoo has reopened Caribbean Cove as an expanded interactive exhibit that is 200% larger and now lets guests view new species like toucans, sloths, porcupines and armadillos year-round—featuring indoor shelters to keep the animals safe during extreme weather.

Traffic near the Lancium project has raised safety concerns after Hawley resident Tiffany Parker ended up in a ditch when a truck changed lanes abruptly—she called 911 and warned that speeding near construction and dump road crossings makes driving risky for teen drivers.

Jim Ned CISD announced that a tax ratification election will be on Nov.

4 to ask voters to approve a three-cent increase in the maintenance and operations tax rate to fund school operations. If approved, the new rate will fall from $1.0007 to $0.9870—made possible by a reduction in the interest and sinking tax rate.

Liz Case announced her candidacy for District 71 of the Texas House—she described herself as a lifelong conservative and Taylor County rancher focused on border security, property tax relief and election integrity.

Abilene City Councilman Blaise Regan and construction manager Joshua Ohlemacher have also joined the race.

Abilene's TxDOT district is set to receive $1.6B from a new investment to improve West Texas roadways — San Angelo will receive about $900M as the boost moves forward.

Jay Hardaway, a former Abilene City Councilman, announced his candidacy for Texas House District 71 today and will run a conservative campaign for the open seat following Representative Stan Lambert’s decision not to seek re-election—he has received endorsements from local leaders including Congressman Jodey Arrington and Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham while other candidates have also declared their run for the seat.

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.

Round-Up for Rehab Abilene Cattle Sale

11 AM – 3 PM — Abilene Livestock Auction LLC — Support for West Texas Rehabilitation Center — Premier auction with music from legends Red Steagall and Jake Hooker.

2025 Statewide Quail Symposium

12:30 p.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Abilene Convention Center — $100 — Discover expert insights on quail management, habitat improvement, and hunting gear at this engaging symposium.

Texas Tailgate Sale

9:30 AM – 11:59 PM — Alliance Auto Auction Abilene — Free entry — Explore 400 vehicles from top dealers and win exciting prizes including Cowboys game tickets.