Good morning, Abilene.

Abilene Meals on Wheels leader Betty Bradley is honored with the Sister Alice Marie Quinn Award after 51 years serving about 1,500 local seniors.

Bradley said her passion grows with every meal delivered and community volunteer support + neighborly care.

Taylor Jones Humane Society in Abilene is overwhelmed as abandoned pets keep arriving & pet owners face rising care costs.

The shelter president said local veterinarians and volunteers must offer affordable spay and neuter services to help stop more animals from facing rural dangers.

Spirit Halloween is set to open in the Mall of Abilene's former Chuck E.

Cheese space (next to Ulta), operating seasonally through November and likely offering costumes and decor around Sept. 1 while also hiring for several positions.

The third annual Abilene Railroad Festival is set for Sept.

11 and 12, offering interactive booths, model railroads, and live music to engage residents (a local celebration of creativity).

As triple-digit heat continues, Abilene officials urge residents to use cooling centers; City Light Community Ministries operates Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Love and Care Ministries runs Monday through Thursday from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., and local libraries also provide relief.

Abilene’s Open Chess Tournament will take place this Saturday at Bennett Gymnasium on the ACU campus.

Organizer Jason Fikes explains that the round robin event requires a U.S. Chess membership and early online registration closes at 11 p.m. today ($22) with on-site registration at $27.