Good morning, Abilene.

On Sept. 1, a new vape ban took effect in Abilene and emptied shelves at smoke shops; at least two shops have closed because business owners now face a severe drop in sales—cashier Ariel Olvera said they are rethinking their product choices.

The West Texas Fair and Rodeo starts today and runs through the 13th, drawing about 120,000 visitors and boosting Abilene’s economy by benefiting local hotels, auto shops, and vendors.

Local businesses use the revenue to fund repairs and improvements—turning the event into a key economic driver.

New education laws including Senate Bill 13 took effect September 1, giving parents the right to check and limit school library content while families adjust to the change.

Global Samaritan Resources' Community Book Room continues to offer thousands of free books each month+ and welcomes visitors every first Wednesday from 12 to 4 p.m.

The Abilene Police Department is investigating the sale of THC vape products as over 100 incidents at local schools prompted compliance letters to businesses and the shutdown of CBD House of Healing; two days after a raid on her client, former Associate Municipal Judge Chaile Allen resigned because she was denied access during the search—officials continue to follow up on the crackdown.

Governor Abbott has called a second special session to urge lawmakers to pass Senate Bill 1, which will boost safety measures for severe weather.

Lawmakers will soon review the bill + decide how best to protect Texans when harsh storms hit.

The City of Abilene sprayed insecticide around Walnut St. Tuesday night after mosquitoes tested positive for West Nile Virus—another spraying on Oak St. was delayed because of supply issues, and residents are using repellent and mosquito traps to protect themselves.

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.

Grain Theory Oktoberfest Downtown Street Party

5-10 p.m. — Grain Theory — Free entry — Celebrate Oktoberfest with adoptable dogs, live music, food trucks, and games at this family-friendly street party in downtown Abilene.