Good morning, Abilene.

The Abilene Zoo announced that Nocona, one of its two cherished cougars, passed away after living 19 years—far beyond the typical cougar lifespan.

The zoo said she was cared for in hospice with her brother Pecos, who died last month (zoo statement).

Abilene food pantry is preparing for a surge in visitors as SNAP benefits end by the end of this week, leaving many residents without food assistance.

Executive Director Jim Clark said the center is stocking up on food and will rely on extra donations from local churches and Taylor Elementary—while rising food prices add to the community's stress.

The Salvation Army in Abilene is asking for turkey donations to serve a home-cooked Thanksgiving meal to 475 to 500 people in need and has received only 2 turkeys so far.

The organization needs 50 to 55 turkeys—38 by Wednesday—to complete its meal operation before Thanksgiving.

After a dog attack last month killed five pigs from the FFA program, Abilene ISD upgraded the facility with taller chain link fences and added panels so predators cannot get inside—staff say the improvements have restored confidence in animal safety and further upgrades for lamb and goat stalls are planned.

A longtime Abilene ISD educator was honored on Saturday for decades of teaching English as a second language—she received a Lifetime Achievement Award and a $1K grant to support English learners.

Veronica Long, who has taught in Abilene for over 30 years and plans to retire next year, said the award recognizes both her work and her students' progress.

After last week's 680 million Mega Millions jackpot went unclaimed, the prize grew to 714 million and now ranks as the ninth largest in history—experts say a winner choosing the 334 million cash option before taxes may take home about 210 million after a 37 percent tax rate, with winning numbers to be announced tonight.

Peabo Bryson Concert

7-10 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the smooth sounds of Peabo Bryson live in concert at the iconic Paramount Theatre.

McMurry War Hawks vs. Abilene Christian Wildcats

12 PM — Moody Coliseum — Check for ticket prices — Catch an exciting basketball matchup between local rivals.

Relief Enterprise of Texas Hiring Event

10 a.m. to 3 p.m. — Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas — Free entry — Explore job opportunities with Relief Enterprise of Texas and meet potential employers.

Amanda Perez Live Concert

9 p.m. — Tequilas Night Club — No refunds — Experience an energetic night of R&B with Amanda Perez in Abilene.

Mount Zion First Baptist Church 140th Anniversary Celebration

6-9 p.m. — McMurry University — Ticket info available upon request — Celebrate 140 years of community and faith with music and a banquet featuring speaker Anthony Williams.

Live2Lead Abilene

8:30 AM – 6:30 PM — 201 Mesquite Event Center — Registration Required — Experience powerful insights and networking opportunities to enhance your leadership skills.

The Nutcracker Ballet

8-10 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Cost Info Not Specified — Experience the magic of Abilene Ballet Theatre's holiday classic with a beloved tale of Clara and her Nutcracker.

22nd Annual Turkey Trot

8:00-9:59 a.m. — P.E. Shotwell Stadium — Proceeds benefit local charities — Kick off the holiday season with a community run for fitness and fun.