Happy tax-free weekend, y’all.

If you ever need to buy anything, this is one of the best times to spend money in Texas. The 8.25% tax North Texans usually pay will be slashed for a ton of items, but there are some parameters. We’ve compiled all the information here, including a brief list of items that will still be taxed. (I’m sorry, you’re going to have to still pay full price for that pair of rollerblades you’ve been eyeing.)

We also included what to do if you’re charged tax on a qualifying item on accident. Get the full rundown.

Happy shopping!

Joi Louviere

Managing Newsletter Editor, Courier DFW

30+ indie bookstores in North Texas team up through August for annual crawl

The North Texas Indie Bookstore Crawl runs from now until Aug. 31. (Getty Images/Unsplash+)

By Sam Cohen

Book readers, your next big adventure awaits! The North Texas Bookstore Crawl is back for the second year in a row. Thirty-three indie bookstores in North Texas—across Fort Worth, Plano, Grapevine, Denton, McKinney, and more—are participating in the event that runs between now and August 31.

All you need to do to enjoy the celebration is stop by as many of the bookstores as you’d like to browse their collections, support local businesses, hangout with members of your community, and maybe even find your new favorite book.

That’s not all, though. The Crawl features an exciting sidequest for those who want to enhance their experience. To join in the fun, swing by one of the bookstores and grab a passport (or download one online here), to collect unique stamps at each location. Every stamp counts as one entry into a raffle organized by the Second Annual North Texas Bookstore Crawl, which features prizes and gift cards that have been donated by the indie bookstores.

Here’s a list of all the participating shops

🤢 Jalapeño hysteria: There’s a nationwide recall for jalapeños after the pepper was linked to salmonella outbreaks in 27 states, including Texas. Here’s the brand linked to the bacteria spread. (Denton-Record Chronicle)

🌱 Alotta new principals: In the early months of a state takeover, Fort Worth ISD saw its largest principal turnover in a decade. The district will welcome 53 new principals this school year, but a loss in staff seems to be the name of the game as Houston ISD also saw a high turnover after its 2023 takeover. (Fort Worth Report)

⚔️ En garde! There’s a Richardson martial arts academy bringing back the lost art of sword fighting—no really! Click here to see what’s motivating these modern-day knights. (KERA)

😋 Big Tex’ choice: Fifteen food vendors just became Big Tex Choice Awards finalists, as the State Fair of Texas gears up for another flavorful festival. Tap here to check out all the delicious entries, including Fletcher’s chocolate corny dog. (Dallas Observer)

🐶 Shelter dogs look for home run: Ten shelter dogs got to leave the confines of Irving Animal Services and have a day at a Texas Rangers game. See the event photos that were shared with prospective adopters. (NBC 5)

🤠 A real cowboy move: Wingstop wants to test two new flavors with customers today, but the company added a twist—the wings will be delivered on horseback. Get all the details here.
(WFAA)