Good morning, Abilene.

Abilene Zoo mourned the loss of Spike, a 41-year-old whooping crane believed to be the oldest on record and a key part of the zoo’s whooping crane SAFE program—staff and visitors remember his role in the species’ recovery.

His breeding efforts with Shelly helped raise chicks that continue to support the restoration of these rare birds.

The City of Abilene is seeking to renew its permit to discharge up to 1.51 million gallons of reverse osmosis water daily into a cove at Possum Kingdom Lake to serve as backup for drought conditions—local groups worry that the treated water, which contains total dissolved solids, may lower lake levels and affect tourism. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality will decide on the permit on Nov. 19.

Now that the government shutdown ended, state agencies will resume distributing SNAP benefits to over three million Texans—restoring critical support for those in need.

With the holidays near, experts warn that holiday decorations may start fire hazards if lights and extension cords are overloaded—local electricians and the fire department advise using the right equipment and checking wires for damage to prevent electrical fires.

They also recommend using LED lights and timers to reduce the risk when decorating across the Big Country.

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.

A Christmas Story Screening

2-3:30 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — $7 for adults, $6 for students/seniors/military/children — Relive the hilarious holiday adventures of Ralphie Parker as he dreams of the perfect Christmas gift.

Annual Christmas Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Free admission — Celebrate the holiday season with festive music performed by the Abilene Community Band.

Ugly Sweater Pub Crawl

4:30-9 p.m. — The Pour House — Ticket required — Don your ugliest Christmas sweater and join a festive pub crawl filled with games, contests, and holiday cheer.