Good morning, Abilene.

Don Boston and his wife Trish launched the Abilene Stray Animal Program last year to feed and care for the city's stray animals as their numbers rose, and the program provides food, water, flea medications — and heartworm preventatives to help keep them healthy.

A group of athletes at Wylie ISD was awarded a National Unified Champion School banner by Special Olympics for their work in a Unified program that pairs students with and without intellectual disabilities to play sports and work in the community.

Teacher DeeDee Baker—who expanded the program from a once-a-week class into a daily course with 30 students—has led efforts that are set to grow even more.

Recently, Abilene ISD experienced delays when several bus drivers called out sick — some bus routes were combined and pickups were delayed, affecting 6,000 students while only 1,200 families use the SmartTag app.

The district said it is actively hiring drivers to ensure full service and improve notifications for families.

CityLink announced it will restore Paratransit Service in BA2 areas on Dec.

1 so eligible riders living more than three-quarters of a mile from a fixed route can book rides immediately+ a budget increase allowed the agency to raise employee pay and hire new drivers to stabilize operations.

Fort Imagination burned down—about a month ago—with the Abilene Fire Department suspecting arson, and city officials with the Jr. League began fundraising to rebuild the playground by 2026; they will decide whether to rebuild it near the zoo parking lot or at Nelson Park.

Officials also said they may add more cameras and a pavilion to help prevent future incidents.

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.