Good morning, Abilene.

Nationwide, 950,000 job cuts have taken place in 2025 and are expected to exceed 1 million before the new year, but West Central Texas has seen rising employment numbers+ Workforce Solutions of West Central Texas will hold a job fair on Nov.

20 where nearly 100 employers will offer many job opportunities.

Beef and cattle prices hit record highs as a long drought and shrinking cattle herds push up costs for brisket, ground beef, and steaks—local buyers are already feeling the pinch.

District leaders at Abilene High have launched a partnership with McMurry University to allow seniors with a 3.5 GPA or top 35% ranking automatic admission and scholarship consideration without an application essay or fee, with scholarships reaching up to $20,000 and the program running from the 2025-26 school year through August 2028 — the move is designed to keep local talent in Abilene.

Abilene ISD voters approved the tax rate election on Tuesday — the decision will boost the district's budget by an extra $10M each year as 54.59% of Taylor County voters supported it, and the funds will be used to improve classrooms, retain teachers, and eliminate the operating deficit.

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, and local health officials stress lung cancer remains the second leading cause of cancer deaths in Texas with smoking responsible for about 90% of cases (chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, fatigue indicate potential issues). They urge residents to seek early detection to improve survival rates.

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.

Celebration Singers Christmas Concert

7-8 p.m. — Boone Family Theatre — Suggested donation of $10 — Experience the joy of Christmas with choral performances from the Celebration Singers.