Good morning, Abilene.

Local businesses and organizations in the 325 area are celebrating 325 Day today with special promotions such as $3.25 off a $25 purchase and other discounts at local restaurants, boutiques, and non-profits.

The community-wide initiative created by Abilene Teachers Federal Credit Union extends into the month for those who miss the event — offering ongoing deals and local activities.

The 26th Annual Champion for Children conference will be held on Thursday and Friday at the DoubleTree Hilton in downtown Abilene—bringing together law enforcement, nurses, social workers, educators, and community workers to share strategies that will help prevent and address child abuse and neglect.

Abilene’s NCCIL is hosting Laps for Literacy on March 29 from 9 a.m. to noon at 102 Cedar St.—The event offers a free literacy walk, a fun run, and an after party with storybook readings, food vendors, and a costume contest where attendees must register for the run and party.

Abilene Christian School will present a musical showcase at the historic Paramount Theatre this weekend — 6th-12th grade students will perform selections from Beauty and the Beast, Shrek the Musical, and The Little Mermaid at 7 p.m. on March 28th and 29th — with tickets starting at $15.

Abilene ISD named Janaye Wideman the principal of Bowie Elementary School on Monday — Wideman, a 17-year teacher and former director of assessment and accountability, assumed the role after serving as interim principal since January.

Voters heard from three candidates for City Council Place 5 and two for Place 6 at a Candidate Forum held at the event center (201 Mesquite Street) on March 24th as they prepared for the May 3 election.

On Friday the city held a dedication ceremony at the Fallen Hero Memorial Plaza to honor 18 city employees who died on the job — the plaza near the Convention Center displays plaques for police, fire, parks, and other workers.

A group of residents, family members, and city staff helped design the tribute — city manager Robert Hanna said it honors all who served Abilene.

Character 5K & Fun Run

10 AM – 12 PM — National Center for Children's Illustrated Literature — $30/person or Family Package Option — Participate in a character-themed fundraiser run for a great cause.

Abilene Christian Wildcats vs. Utah Tech Trailblazers

6:05 p.m. — ACU Crutcher Scott Baseball Field — Affordable tickets available — Catch the thrilling matchup between the Wildcats and Trailblazers live on the field.

Jarrod Morris Concert

7-8 p.m. — Lime Rock Amphitheater — All ages welcome — Enjoy a night of live country music with Jarrod Morris and special guest Cameron Wrinkle.

Easter Sunday Celebration

1-6 p.m. — Thirsty's BBQ & More — Family-friendly — Enjoy games and egg hunts for a delightful Easter experience in Clyde, TX.

Texas Trivia Luncheon

11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. — T&P Event Center — Check event page for cost — Test your Texas knowledge while enjoying a catered box lunch and prizes.