Acting Texas Comptroller Kelly Hancock today announced that Texas families are expected to save an estimated $133.2 million in state and local sales taxes during this year’s sales tax holiday, which runs Friday, August 8th, through midnight Sunday, August 10th.
“Back-to-school costs can add up fast,” said Hancock, who announced this year’s projected savings during a business visit to a major retailer in Midland. “Whether you prefer to shop in person or online, this tax-free weekend helps families stretch their hard-earned dollars, saving about $8 for every $100 spent. Texans have saved more than $2 billion since this tradition began in 1999, and we’re glad to keep it operating.”
During the three-day event, Texans can purchase a wide range of items tax-free, including most clothing, footwear, school supplies and backpacks priced under $100. Diapers — both cloth and disposable — are also exempt from sales tax, and certain sanitizers and wipes with a drug facts label are tax-free year-round. The exemption applies whether shoppers buy items in stores, online, by telephone or by mail.
Shoppers using layaway also can benefit. Items placed on layaway or final payments made on existing layaway purchases during the holiday are tax-free, provided the individual item price remains below $100.
If a retailer mistakenly charges sales tax on a qualifying item, customers may request a refund directly from the seller or they can contact the Comptroller’s office for assistance. A full list of tax-free items is available at TexasTaxHoliday.org.
Jamaica Friona — St. Teresa’s annual Jamaica Festival will be held this Sunday, August 3rd, in the parking lot just east of the church at 401 W. 17th in Friona. The fundraising event will start at 11:00 a.m. and run until 9:30 p.m. and will include live music, games, prizes, and much more! Everyone is invited to stop by and enjoy delicious Mexican and American food which will include Gorditas, Funnel Cake, Bingo, Aguas Frescas, Fajitas, Brisket Burritos, Tripas, and much more. Proceeds from the event will help support the church in its various activities, which includes hosting a Friona High School Senior Banquet each spring.
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Sunday is Watermelon Day — Watermelons are generally considered good for you. They are packed with nutrients and offer various health benefits. They are particularly known for their high water content, which aids in hydration, and are a rich source of lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health and cancer risk reduction.
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Our Land – House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (TX-19) celebrated the Trump Administration Fish and Wildlife Service’s decision to cancel the Land Protection Plan for the Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge, ending the Biden’s Administration’s land grab that would have expanded the refuge by over 10,000 percent and infringed on the private property rights of West Texans.
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Coast to Coast — Union Pacific announced it will acquire Norfolk Southern in an $85 billion cash-and-stock deal announced Tuesday, creating the first transcontinental freight railroad operator in U.S. history. The combined company would control over 50,000 route miles and claim a market value above $250 billion. Executives say the merger will reduce shipping delays, expand routes, and boost U.S. competitiveness.
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Breaking Ground — Governor Abbott announced the start of construction on the new Lubbock Psychiatric Center. The new 108,430 square-foot, 50-bed maximum-security hospital will be located off Peach Avenue near Highway 84. The hospital is designed with the latest mental healthcare standards in mind to promote recovery and healing. Security measures, such as perimeter fencing, video surveillance, alarms, electronic monitors and additional staff, will help ensure the safety of patients, staff, and the community. Governor Abbott and the 88th Texas Legislature approved $121 million in funding for the hospital, which is slated for completion in 2027.
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National Days
July 31 — Chili Dog Day
August 1 — Water Ballon Day
August 2 — Disc Golf Day
August 3 — Watermelon Day
August 4 — Chocolate Chip Cookie Day
August 5 — Underwear Day
August 6 — Root Beer Float Day
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In Parmer County: $40 per year
Out of Parmer County: $50 per year
eStar (emailed): $30 per year
Call 806-250-5200 for more information
