A Video going around captured the moment when Kevin D'Agostino learned his life would change forever.
His family woke him up in the middle of the night to give him the news — he would be receiving a much-needed lung transplant.
"No way mom, not tonight! NO WAY!" he said in the video, simply shocked and overjoyed.
Kevin's brother Michael posted the video to Facebook and Instagram, with an update that Kevin's surgery at Loyola University Medical Center went well. The video has been viewed thousands of times.
Michael also thanked the doctors at Loyola in the post, and said his family is very appreciative of the donor's family.
Diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at birth, Kevin suffered an unrelated brain injury in 2016. While he continued to fight his CF, he ultimately needed a lung transplant. His sister Julie, 22, died after her fight with cystic fibrosis in 2015.
Michael has posted updates of Kevin to social media, including one video where he's taking laps around the nurses stations and another where he thanks all the people who have been rooting for him.
"Don't worry, I'll be as annoying as ever soon enough," Kevin said in the video.
The family created a foundation in their sister Julie's honor. You can learn more about it here: thejuliedfoundation.org
It was announced a few months ago that Maroon 5 would hit the stage come February 3rd for the Super Bowl 53 halftime show in Atlanta, and they’ll now have some company.
According to TMZ, the rapper will perform in Mercedes Benz stadium as part of dual performance, a move the NFL has gone to in order to target different demographics of their fans.
There is no word yet on if the two will collaborate during any part of the performance considering Scott and Maroon 5 have no joint ventures, but it’s likely the performances will flow together.
TMZ also reported rumors that Cardi B and Big Boi, as well as a few others, might be making special appearances.
Scott, who’s been on the scene for about five years now is currently on ‘Astroworld’ country-wide and international tour
Scooters can only operate on streets with a speed limit of 35 mph or less
Scooters can cross the street at intersections where the speed limit is greater than 35 mph
Scooters cannot be driven on sidewalks
Scooters cannot be parked anywhere on sidewalks that would block a walking path
Operators must abide by all traffic laws to include direction signs, pedestrian right-of-ways, and signaling for turns.
Operators must be 18 or older to use motorized scooters
Riders found in violation of these laws could be subject to citations from the Abilene Police Department.
"The traffic enforcement goal of the Police Department is to reduce traffic accidents and injuries and to facilitate the safe and expeditious flow of vehicle and pedestrian traffic through the public’s voluntary compliance with traffic regulations," a press release reveals.
Anyone with questions about laws regarding motorized scooter operation can contact Abilene PD's non-emergency number at (325)673-8331.
ABILENE, Texas — Sleet and snow developed in our western areas before sunrise Saturday and spread eastward. Most of the snow fell around and north of I-20. The snow event ended by sunset Saturday.
Here are some totals reported by the National Weather Service:
ABILENE 3.0 inches (New record for Dec 8th)
ANSON 4 inches
ASPERMONT 2 inches
FORT GRIFFIN STATE PARK 1.5 inches
JAYTON 3 inches
LUBBOCK 7 inches to 10.5 inches
STAMFORD 2 inches
SWEETWATER 2 inches
THROCKMORTON 1.5 inches
WEINERT 2 inches.
The 3.0 inches recorded at Abilene was a new record snowfall for December 8th - breaking the old record for the date of a trace of snow measured in 2016 and 1989.
HEB is hosting their 14th annual 'Feast of Sharing' Tuesday night.
The free holiday celebration will take place at the Abilene Convention Center on the 1100 block of N. 6th Street from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
"The event, which is open to the public, also includes live music, entertainment, family-friendly activities and a visit from Santa. On the menu will be glazed ham, mashed potatoes, green beans, rolls and apple pie," according to a press release.
The release also states flu shots will be available free-of-charge to anyone who many need one.
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 4
Holiday concert
As a part of the Holiday Luncheon Concert Series, the Key City Jazz Quartet will perform at 12:15 p.m. at The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St. Listeners are encouraged to bring a lunch. Admission is free.
Pecan show
Public viewing for the 2018 Abilene Area Pecan Show will be open from 3-6 p.m. at the Taylor County AgriLife Extension office, 1982 Lytle Way. Awards will be presented at 6 p.m.
Feast of Sharing
The annual H-E-B Feast of Sharing will be served from 4-8 p.m. at the Abilene Convention Center, 1100 N. Sixth St. Admission is free.
All-star concert
The Ben Richey All-Star Christmas Concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. at 389 Walnut St. Performers include Catherine Hall, Luke Harwell, Sherry Luster and Todd Moebes. Tickets are $50, and are available through eventbrite.com.
Square dance workshop
TYE — The Wagon Wheel Squares will conduct a square dance workshop at 6:30 p.m. at the Wagon Wheel. Tracey Dowell will be the caller.
Christmas concert
The Hardin-Simmons University bands will present a Christmas concert at 7:30 p.m. in Behrens Auditorium on campus. Admission is free.
Others ...
Mission on the Move Soup Kitchen, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Southwest Drive Community United Methodist Church, 3025 Southwest Drive.
Abilene Southwest Rotary Club, noon, Beehive Restaurant, 442 Cedar St.
High Noon Al-Anon, noon, Southern Hills Church of Christ, 3666 Buffalo Gap Road (south end; follow the yellow signs).
Bridge, etc., noon, Mabel Lilius Bridge Center, 3001 S. Ninth St. 325-698-5601.
Blood drive, 1-6 p.m., Brookshires, Cisco.
Stroke/Aphasia Recovery Program support group, 1:30-2:30 p.m. West Texas Rehabilitation Center boardroom, 4601 Hartford St. 325-793-3535.
Betty Hardwick Center board of trustees, 5:15 p.m., Betty Hardwick Center, 2616 S. Clack St., Suite 150.
Dystonia Support Group, 5:15-6:15 p.m., Not Without Us, 3301 N. First St. Suite 117.
Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS), 5:30 p.m., Brook Hollow Christian Church, 2310 S. Willis St. 325-232-7444.
Legacies Al-Anon Family Group, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Open Door Building, 3157 Russell Ave. 325-280-7584.
Family (of Mental Health Consumers) Support Group, 6-7 p.m., Mental Health Association in Abilene, 333 Orange St. 325-673-2300.
MHAA Bipolar/Depression Peer Support Group, 6-8 p.m., Ministry of Counseling & Enrichment, 1502 N. First St. 325-673-2300.
Free certified nurturing parent class (pregnancy to toddler), 6-8 p.m., Mission Church, North Third and Mockingbird streets. 325-672-9398.
Abilene Star Chorus, 6:30 p.m., Mesa Springs Retirement Center, 7171 Buffalo Gap Road.
Overeaters Anonymous, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Exodus Metropolitan Community Church, 1933 S. 27th St.
Al-Anon Parents Group, 7 p.m., Hillcrest Church of Christ, 650 E. Ambler Ave. Use Church Street entrance.
Al-Anon, 7 p.m., Doug Meinzer Activity Center, Knox City. 940-658-3926.
Abilene Society of Model Railroaders, 7-8:30 p.m., 598 Westwood Drive.
Unity Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m., Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest, 602 Meander St.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 5
Nutrition class
Laroona Jones, of the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, will present the first part of a three-part class on nutrition and food safety from 10-11 a.m. at the Mockingbird Branch of the Abilene Public Library, 1326 N. Mockingbird Lane. The class will continue Dec. 12 and 19. Admission is free.
Others ...
Overeaters Anonymous, 8 a.m., Baker Heights Church of Christ, 5382 Texas Ave.
Blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Hawley High School.
Abilene Cactus Lions Club, 11:45 a.m., Cotton Patch Cafe, 3302 S. Clack St.
Abilene Wednesday Rotary Club, noon, Abilene Country Club, 4039 S. Treadaway. $12 for lunch. Jo Ann Wilson, 325-677-6815.
Kiwanis Club of Abilene, noon, Abilene Country Club, 4039 S. Treadaway Blvd.
Clearly Speaking Toastmaster Club, noon, Hunter Welcome Center, Abilene Christian University.
Free swim class for people with multiple sclerosis, 5:30 p.m., YMCA, 3250 State St.
Veterans Peer Support Group, 6 p.m., 765 Orange St. 325-670-4818.
Mid-week Al-Anon Family Group, 6-7 p.m., Open Door Building, 3157 Russell Ave. 325-698-4995.
Al-Anon, 7 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 1501 N. Broadway, Ballinger. 817-689-2810 or 325-977-1007.
DivorceCare support group, 7 p.m., Hillcrest Church of Christ, 650 E. Ambler Ave. 325-691-4200.
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6
Class for iPhones and iPads
Tom Miller will present a free class for iPhone, iPad and Mac computer users at 1 p.m. at the Mockingbird Branch of the Abilene Public Library, 1326 N. Mockingbird Lane. For information, call 325-692-1087.
Food truck benefit
Several food trucks will conduct a fundraiser from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Food Park, 1089 S. First St. Proceeds from sales will benefit Abilene Operation Blue Santa. Live music, vendors and more will be available.
'Proof'
A production of "Proof" will be presented at 7:30 p.m. in the Ryan Little Theatre at McMurry University. Tickets are $7.
Living Christmas Tree
The 36th annual Living Christmas Tree will be presented at 7:30 p.m. at Wylie Baptist Church, 6097 Buffalo Gap Road. Tickets are required, but are free. To reserve tickets, call 325-692-3206.
Others ...
Chronic Pain and Depression Group, 11 a.m. to noon, Mental Health Association of Abilene, 333 Orange St., 325-673-2300.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Abilene, noon, Beehive Restaurant, 442 Cedar St. 325-695-0092.
Bridge, etc., noon, Mabel Lilius Bridge Center, 3001 S. Ninth St. 325-698-5601.
Mental Illness Open Support Group, 1-2 p.m., Mental Health Association of Abilene, 333 Orange St. 325-673-2300.
Abilene 42 Club, 6 p.m., Rose Park Senior Center.
Teen Recovery Group, 6-7 p.m., Mission Abilene, 3001 N. Third St.
Free certified nurturing parent class (all ages), 6-8 p.m., Mission Church, North Third and Mockingbird streets. 325-672-9398.
Take Off Pounds Sensibly, 6:30 p.m. Our Savior Lutheran Church, 4933 S. Seventh St. Weigh-in begins at 5:30 p.m. 325-665-5052.
Free swim class for people with multiple sclerosis, 6:30 p.m., YMCA, 3250 State St.
Gambler’s Anonymous, 6:30 p.m., Unity Spiritual Living Center, 2842 Barrow St. 325-338-2575.
South Pioneer Al-Anon Group, 8 p.m., 3157 Russell Ave.
Unity Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m., Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest, 602 Meander St.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7
Insurance enrollment fair
A health insurance enrollment fair will be open from 3-7 p.m. in the lobby of the Shelton Building at Hendrick Medical Center, 2000 Pine St. Counselors will help participants to find a plan on the 2019 Marketplace, which is accepting open enrollment through Dec. 15.
College cram session
A quiet study area will be available for college students from 6-9 p.m. at the South Branch of the Abilene Public Library, in the Mall of Abilene. Coffee, drinks and snacks will be available. Admission is free, but a college ID is required.
'Othello'
A production of Shakespeare's "Othello" will be presented at 7:30 p.m. at Abilene Community Theatre, 809 Barrow St. Tickets are $15 for adults and $13 for students, seniors and military. For information, go to abilenecommunitytheatre.org.
Christmas concert
The Celebration Singers will present a free concert, "Christmas Everywhere," at 7:30 p.m at the Paramount Theatre, 352 Cypress St.
'Proof'
A production of "Proof" will be presented at 7:30 p.m. in the Ryan Little Theatre at McMurry University. Tickets are $10.
Christmas haunted house
BAIRD — "Christmas Nightmare" will be open from 8 p.m. to midnight at 13 Vultures Haunted Estate, 3480 I-20 West. Admission is $10. Concessions will be available.
Others ...
Abilene Chinese Corner, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Abilene Christian University library. lld09a@acu.edu.
Mid-City Al-Anon, 7 p.m., First Christian Church. 325-670-4304.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8
Webb Wilder w/ A Systematic Paradox/ Contra Ted
The Human Cannonball man himself Webb Wilder will be in Abilene at Homer's bar and Music Venue 4201 north 1st. 7pm
Breakfast with Santa
A breakfast with Santa will begin at 9 and 10:30 a.m. at the Abilene Zoo, 2070 Zoo Lane. A craft activity, photos and zoo admission will be included. Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for children ages 3-12 and $5 for children 2 and under. Space is limited. For reservations, call 325-676-6085.
Trout derby
Texas Parks and Wildlife and Abilene Parks and Recreation will conduct a free rainbow trout derby from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Cal Young Park, 950 T and P Lane. Information on fish identification, casting and knot tying will be presented, and hot dogs and chips will be served. Loaner tackle will be available for youths. Participants are encouraged to bring their own equipment if available. All participants age 17 and older must have a valid Texas fishing license.
Holiday market
The Abilene Holiday Art & Craft Gift Market will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Abilene Convention Center, 1100 N. Sixth St. Admission is free. For information, go to https://facebook.com/events/1541909445922331.
Model railroad open house
The Abilene Society of Model Railroaders will conduct its annual open house from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 598 Westwood Drive. Displays will include a HO-scale model train layout, an operating O scale train and Thomas the Tank Engine. Admission is free.
Movies at the library
A free showing of "Trolls," rated PG, will begin at 11 a.m. at the South Branch of the Abilene Public Library, in the Mall of Abilene. A free showing of "Mission Impossible: Fallout," rated PG-13, will follow at 2 p.m.
College cram session
A quiet study area will be available for college students from 6-9 p.m. at the South Branch of the Abilene Public Library, in the Mall of Abilene. Coffee, drinks and snacks will be available. Admission is free, but a college ID is required.
Christmas parade
TYE — A Christmas parade will begin at 6 p.m. in downtown Tye.
Professional wrestling
Rampage Wrestling will perform at 7 p.m. in the Disability Resources Inc. gymnasium, 3602 N. Clack St. Doors will open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children age 12 and under.
'Othello'
A production of Shakespeare's "Othello" will be presented at 7:30 p.m. at Abilene Community Theatre, 809 Barrow St. Tickets are $15 for adults and $13 for students, seniors and military. For information, go to abilenecommunitytheatre.org.
'Proof'
A production of "Proof" will be presented at 7:30 p.m. in the Ryan Little Theatre at McMurry University. Tickets are $10.
Living Christmas Tree
The 36th annual Living Christmas Tree will be presented at 7:30 p.m. at Wylie Baptist Church, 6097 Buffalo Gap Road. Tickets are required, but are free. To reserve tickets, call 325-692-3206.
Dance
SWEETWATER — A dance featuring Midnight Blue will begin at 8 p.m. at VFW Post 2479, 216 Avenger Field Road. Admission is $10.
Christmas haunted house
"Christmas Nightmare" will be open from 8 p.m. to midnight at 13 Vultures Haunted Estate, 3480 I-20 West. Admission is $10. Concessions will be available.
Others ...
Abilene Society of Model Railroaders, 10 a.m. to noon, 598 Westwood Drive.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 9
Model railroad open house
The Abilene Society of Model Railroaders will conduct its annual open house from 1-5 p.m. at 598 Westwood Drive. Displays will include a HO-scale model train layout, an operating O scale train and Thomas the Tank Engine. Admission is free.
Living Christmas Tree
The 36th annual Living Christmas Tree will be presented at 4:30 and 7:30 p.m. at Wylie Baptist Church, 6097 Buffalo Gap Road. Tickets are required, but are free. To reserve tickets, call 325-692-3206.
'Othello'
A production of Shakespeare's "Othello" will be presented at 2 p.m. at Abilene Community Theatre, 809 Barrow St. Tickets are $15 for adults and $13 for students, seniors and military. For information, go to abilenecommunitytheatre.org.
Lindsay Lohan is back gracing our TVs and she wants everyone to know she’s a Boss B. MTV’s Lindsay Lohan’s Beach Club is premiering on January 8th and this is our first glimpse of the show. LiLo is ready to take over Mykonos and the club scene. We will see the staff she has hired (only the best) and how she manages her club, Lohan Beach House.
If MTV is smart they took inspiration from Vanderpump Rules and have only cast entertaining and dramatic employees for the club. Right now, I’m very optimistic about this show. This could end up backfiring, but I’m kind of getting Lisa Vanderpump vibes from Lindsay here? No offense to Lisa of course, she is the queen. Lindsay should just try and be like Lisa, the formula works. If only she still had that fake accent.
Netflix seems to have seen the Internet’s panic over the expiration date of January 1, 2019 at the top of Friends. They have updated, and removed the date so it is no longer there.
The historic Paramount Theatre in downtown Abilene announced its 2019 film series lineup Monday, December 3.
In an announcement made on its Facebook page, 15 films were listed to screen over the year.
The films chosen, as well as screening dates, are as follows:
The Greatest Showman (2017): January 11 and 12.
North by Northwest (1959): February 8 and 9.
Beauty and the Best (1991): March 8 and 9.
The Help (2011): April 12 and 13.
The Searchers (1956): May 10 and 11.
Saving Private Ryan (1998): June 6, 7 and 8.
The Avengers (2012): July 3.
Ben Hur (1959): July 12 and 13.
Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977): August 9 and 10.
Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975): September 13 and 14.
The Magnificent Seven (1960): October 11 and 12.
The Changeling (1980): October 31 and November 1.
Singin' in the Rain (1952): November 15 and 16.
White Christmas (1954): December 13 and 14.
When Harry Met Sally (1989): December 31.
For more information, visit the Paramount's online events page
The holidays are a joyous time for children, but not every child gets to experience the magic of Christmas morning.
However, there is a group in Sweetwater hoping to change that in your community.
The Bikers Against Child Abuse (BACA) non-profit organization works through out the year to help children who have survived child abuse.
"We go with them to court. Whenever they have the court, a lot of times the parents are subpoenaed. That's where we come in. We'll be there. We'll sit with them through court," Armando Moncibais said.
He is one of the heroes in the world, working to end child abuse through BACA.
"When you first meet them in an initial interview, they shut down. They are pretty much clinging on their mom or their dad, then after a while, they open up. It's just a wonderful feeling knowing we did something for that child," Moncibais said.
The 501(c) non-profit works hand in hand with law enforcement, district attorney's offices and agencies, like the West Texas Children's Advocacy Center (CAC).
"All of the victims that we serve throughout the whole year and their non-offending siblings, we help those families out with Christmas," Kelsey Zimmerman, executive director of CAC said.
With one of the agency's biggest time of the year, the two groups are teaming up to ensure each child gets the Christmas they deserve.
"We have a big tree at WalMart in Sweetwater and in Snyder," Zimmerman said.
Covering three counties, Nolan, Mitchel and Fisher, the agency and BACA hopes to alleviate families who are struggling.
"That kind of helps them get through a little bit of their struggles, because when you're dealing with an investigation, a lot of that can take time and money and time away from work," Zimmerman said.
Hoping to end the abusive trend in the process.
"It has really humbled me to know that my kids are safe. There is bad in the world. I don't want to scare people when they hear about child abuse but it's there, it's around the corner, it's underneath our noses, it's at the schools," Zimmerman said.
BACA is also in need of kids vests and teddy bears.
The kids vests are given to the kids who are adopting BACA into their family, and the teddy bears are for hugs when their BACA member is not there to give them one.
If you would like to donate to BACA, you can contact:
Chapter President: Kris "Mijo" Warner, mijo@rp-tx.bacaworld.org, (325) 829-2078
Chapter Vice President: Luis "T-Bone" Torres, t-bone@rp-tx.bacaworld.org (325) 242-6689
Chapter Child Liaison: Norma "Mouse" Torres, mouse@rp-tx.bacaworld.org (325) 242-5410
The official schedule of memorial services for former President George H.W. Bush was released on Saturday. The ceremonies over the next four days include Bush lying will in state at the U.S Capitol, a funeral service at the National Cathedral in Washington, and finally a burial at the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum.
The ceremonies begin Monday morning at 10:30 a.m. central time with a departure ceremony from Ellington Field Joint Reserve Base in Houston. Bush's remains will be flown from Houston to Joint Base Andrews in Prince George's County, Maryland.
Once the president's casket arrives in Maryland, it will be taken to the U.S. Capitol in Washington.
An honor guard will be in place as George H.W. Bush's casket will lie in state from 5:00 p.m. Monday until 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday. The public is invited to pay their respects at the Capitol from 7:30 p.m. on Monday until 8:45 a.m. on Wednesday.
On Wednesday morning at 10:00 a.m. eastern time, there will be a departure ceremony for Bush at the U.S. Capitol. His casket will then travel to the Washington National Cathedral, five miles away, at 11:00 a.m.
The funeral at the Washington National Cathedral will be attended by a vast group of dignitaries; including President Donald Trump, and former presidents and politicians. The memorial service is expected to last about 90 minutes.
Following the funeral, Bush will return to Joint Base Andrews at 1:15 p.m. to depart back to Houston. His arrival at Ellington Field is expected at 4:30 p.m. central time on Wednesday.
Upon arrival back in Houston, Bush will lie in repose at the St. Martin's Episcopal Church, where first lady Barbara Bush's funeral was held in April.
On Thursday, the president's casket will then depart by railroad at 12:30 p.m. central time to arrive at Texas A&M University in College Station, which is home to the George Bush Presidential Library and Museum.
At 3:45 p.m., Bush, an admirer of trains, will be transported to his internment via a special train with a glass viewing car.
George H.W. Bush will be interred next to his wife and daughter Robin at 4:15 p.m.
Abilene is getting an ALDI grocery store after a remodel of their current Kohl's building!
The City of Abilene confirmed a permit has been filed to remodel the interior of Kohl's on the 4700 block of Southwest Drive to accommodate the ALDI's location. Kohl's will remain open, just reduced in size.
It's unknown when the remodel will be complete.
The ALDI's website describes the history of the chain as follows: "Founded by the Albrecht family, the first ALDI store opened in 1961 in Germany, making ALDI the first discounter in the world. Headquartered in Batavia, Illinois, ALDI now has more than 1,600 stores across 35 states, employs over 25,000 people and has been steadily growing since opening its first US store in Iowa in 1976."
The movie theater at the Mall of Abilene is adding a permanent feature for ages 21 and over: beer and wine.
Premiere 10 hopes to start selling the consumables sometime in December.
"We are thrilled to add beer and wine to our concession menu for movie-goers to enjoy," said Gary Moore, the theater chain's president and chief executive officer, in a statement. "A lot of our theaters in other markets have been selling beer and wine to moviegoers for years and it's become a really big hit in movie theaters, so we're really excited to offer them in Abilene now."
William Hildebrand, lead associate director at Abilene's Premiere Lux Cine 10, said director Lavone Crosby and he were "excited for the beer and wine addition to our concession menu."
"It is exciting for moviegoers in Abilene to order a beer or wine along with your popcorn or hot dog and enjoy your movie," he said, noting that the theater listens to patrons, and added items such as pretzels to its concession menu by popular demand.
The theater recently went through a major renovation, adding leather recliners with adjustable headrests, USB ports and private tables for the "in-theater diniAbilng experience," he said, adding unlimited self-serve refills of popcorn, soft drinks and ICEEs.
The beer menu will include Bud Light, Budweiser, Michelob Ultra, Miller Lite, Shiner Bock, Coors Banquet, Dos XX, Coors Light, Redd's Apple Ale & Mike's Hard Lemonade.
Wine available will be chardonnay, cabernet sauvignon, moscato and white zinfandel.
A number of other Premiere Cinemas also sell beer and wine, including locations in Bryan, Burleson, El Paso, Grand Prairie, Lubbock, and Temple, Hildebrand said.
For years, the mall and the nearby Century 12 were Abilene's primary movie theaters, the Century being a pioneer when it brought stadium seating to Abilene when it opened in September 1998
Abilene's theater landscape began transforming in 2017, when its newest theater, a Cinemark location in north Abilene, opened, offered reclining seats, an XD screen, and similar amenities not seen locally.
The mall's theater upped its game in response, adding in new seating and other perks.
Meanwhile, one of the city's oldest theaters, the AMC Classic 6, closed in May, while the former Westwood Twin on North First Street is now a church.
The city currently has four first-run movie theaters: Premiere Cinema 10, Century 12 near the mall, Town and Country Drive-In and the northside Cinemark Abilene and XD
Friday meant the end of school for the Thanksgiving holiday for many Abilene students, and the first order of business was welcoming Santa to the Mall of Abilene.
He arrived as dusk near the Premiere 10 movie theater, not to see "The Grinch" or "The Nutcracker and the Four Realms" but to parade to his seat inside, at Woodland Friends. From his special chair, he'll spend quality time with youngsters over the next few weeks, listening to and noting their Christmas gift requests.
You can find him at the Women's Dillard's Courtyard, available for photos and visits through Dec. 24.
But if Santa's taking a break, don't pout. He'll know.
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 19
'The Sound of Music'
As part of the Abilene Broadway Season, a production "The Sound of Music" will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Abilene Convention Center, 1100 N. Sixth St. For tickets or information, go to CelebrityAttractions.com.
A capella concert
The Abilene Christian University A Cappella Chorus and University Chorale will present "Faith, Hope, and Love" at 7:30 p.m. at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 525 Beech St.
Others ...
AARP, 10 a.m., Rose Park Senior Citizens Center, Room Be, 2625 S. Seventh St.
Cancer Services Network’s Auxiliary meeting, 10:30 a.m., 100 Chestnut St., Suite 100. 325-672-0040.
Overeaters Anonymous, noon, Abilene Public Library South Branch, Mall of Abilene.
Schizophrenia Support Group, 1-2 p.m., Mental Health Association of Abilene, 333 Orange St. 325-673-2300.
Blood drive, 1-5 p.m., Texas Tech University School of Pharmacy, 1718 Pine St.
Free swim class for people with multiple sclerosis, 5:30 p.m., YMCA, 3250 State St.
Central Texas Gem & Mineral Society of Abilene, 7 p.m., 7607 Highway 277 South. 325-692-0063.
Abilene Toastmaster’s Club 1071, 7 p.m., Conference Center, Texas State Technical College, 650 E. Highway 80. 325-692-7325 or abilene.toastmastersclubs.org.
Al-Anon, 7 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 1501 N. Broadway, Ballinger. 817-689-2810 or 325-977-1007.
Mid-City Al-Anon, 7 p.m., First Christian Church. 325-670-4304.
Memory Men (4-part a cappella singing), 7 p.m., First Baptist Church University Place, 302 Hickory St. 325-676-SING or www.memorymen.org.
Those Left To Cope, 7-8:30 p.m., First Baptist Church Ministry of Counseling and Enrichment, 1502 N. First St.
Abilene Community Band rehearsal, 7:30 p.m., Bynum Band Hall, McMurry University. 325-232-7383.
South Pioneer Al-Anon Group, 8 p.m., 3157 Russell Ave.
Alcoholics Anonymous/Narcotics Anonymous, 8 p.m., Avoca United Methodist Church. 325-773-2611.
Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse Group. 325-676-1400.
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 20
Square dance workshop
TYE — The Wagon Wheel Squares will conduct a square dance workshop at 6:30 p.m. at the Wagon Wheel.
Others ...
Blood drive, 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Wylie High School, 4502 Antilley Road.
Mission on the Move Soup Kitchen, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Southwest Drive Community United Methodist Church, 3025 Southwest Drive.
Abilene Southwest Rotary Club, noon, Beehive Restaurant, 442 Cedar St.
High Noon Al-Anon, noon, Southern Hills Church of Christ, 3666 Buffalo Gap Road (south end; follow the yellow signs).
Stroke/Aphasia Recovery Program support group, 1:30-2:30 p.m. West Texas Rehabilitation Center boardroom, 4601 Hartford St. 325-793-3535.
Dystonia Support Group, 5:15-6:15 p.m., Not Without Us, 3301 N. First St. Suite 117.
Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS), 5:30 p.m., Brook Hollow Christian Church, 2310 S. Willis St. 325-232-7444.
Legacies Al-Anon Family Group, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Open Door Building, 3157 Russell Ave. 325-280-7584.
National Alliance on Mental Illness, 6 p.m., Grace Fellowship, 910 Cypress St.
Family (of Mental Health Consumers) Support Group, 6-7 p.m., Mental Health Association in Abilene, 333 Orange St. 325-673-2300.
MHAA Bipolar/Depression Peer Support Group, 6-8 p.m., Ministry of Counseling & Enrichment, 1502 N. First St. 325-673-2300.
Free certified nurturing parent class (pregnancy to toddler), 6-8 p.m., Mission Church, North Third and Mockingbird streets. 325-672-9398.
Abilene Star Chorus, 6:30 p.m., Mesa Springs Retirement Center, 7171 Buffalo Gap Road.
Overeaters Anonymous, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Exodus Metropolitan Community Church, 1933 S. 27th St.
Family Support Group for parents with special needs children, 6:30-7:30 p.m., West Texas Rehabilitation Center boardroom, 4601 Hartford St. 325-793-3500.
Alzheimer’s Association — North Central Texas Chapter, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Chisholm Place, 1450 E. N. 10th St. 325-672-2907.
Al-Anon Parents Group, 7 p.m., Hillcrest Church of Christ, 650 E. Ambler Ave. Use Church Street entrance.
Al-Anon, 7 p.m., Doug Meinzer Activity Center, Knox City. 940-658-3926.
Brigadier General John Sayles Sons of Confederate Veterans Camp 366, 7 p.m., American Legion Building, 302 E.S. 11th St.
Abilene Society of Model Railroaders, 7-8:30 p.m., 598 Westwood Drive.
Unity Group of Alcoholics Anonymous, 8 p.m., Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest, 602 Meander St.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 21
Overeaters Anonymous, 8 a.m., Baker Heights Church of Christ, 5382 Texas Ave.
Abilene Cactus Lions Club, 11:45 a.m., Cotton Patch Cafe, 3302 S. Clack St.
Abilene Wednesday Rotary Club, noon, Abilene Country Club, 4039 S. Treadaway. $12 for lunch. Jo Ann Wilson, 325-677-6815.
Kiwanis Club of Abilene, noon, Abilene Country Club, 4039 S. Treadaway Blvd.
Clearly Speaking Toastmaster Club, noon, Hunter Welcome Center, Abilene Christian University.
Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group, 2-3 p.m., Western Hills Healthcare Residence, Comanche.
Alzheimer’s disease support group, 5:15 p.m., Cedar Crest Care Center, 1901 W. Elliott, Breckenridge. Assists those who have a family member with symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. 1-800-272-3900 or 254-559-3302.
Free swim class for people with multiple sclerosis, 5:30 p.m., YMCA, 3250 State St.
Veterans Peer Support Group, 6 p.m., 765 Orange St. 325-670-4818.
Mid-week Al-Anon Family Group, 6-7 p.m., Open Door Building, 3157 Russell Ave. 325-698-4995.
Al-Anon, 7 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 1501 N. Broadway, Ballinger. 817-689-2810 or 325-977-1007.
DivorceCare support group, 7 p.m., Hillcrest Church of Christ, 650 E. Ambler Ave. 325-691-4200.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 22
Turkey Trot 5K
The 15th annual Turkey Trot 5K will begin at 8:30 a.m. at Shotwell Stadium, 1525 E.S. 11th St. Packet pickup will begin at 7 a.m. Early registration is $25 for adults, and late registration is $35. Registration is available at active.com.
Operation Thanksgiving
The Taylor County Veterans Service Office will serve its annual Operation Thanksgiving dinner from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Abilene Convention Center, 1100 N. Sixth St. For more information, call 325-674-1328.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 23
Abilene Chinese Corner, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Abilene Christian University library. lld09a@acu.edu.
Mid-City Al-Anon, 7 p.m., First Christian Church. 325-670-4304.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 24
Movies at the library
A free showing of "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles," rated PG, will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the South Branch of the Abilene Public Library, in the Mall of Abilene. Free showings of "The Meg" and "Crazy Rich Asians," both rated PG-13, will follow at 1 and 3:30 p.m., respectively.
Others ...
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 15
Class for iPhones and iPads
Tom Miller will present a free class for iPhone, iPad and Mac computer users at 1 p.m. at the Mockingbird Branch of the Abilene Public Library, 1326 N. Mockingbird Lane. For information, call 325-692-1087.
Children's art reception
An opening reception for the Children's Museum Art Competition will be presented from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St. Photos of winning art will be shown, and cookies and punch will be served.
Diabetes management
A program and panel discussion on self-managing diabetes will be presented from 5:30-7 p.m. in Women's Center Classroom 3 at Abilene Regional Medical Center, 6250 Highway 83. For reservations, call 325-428-4950 by Nov. 13.
'John & Jen'
A production of the musical "John & Jen" will be presented at 7:30 p.m. in Fulks Theatre at Abilene Christian University. Tickets are $15. For tickets, call 325-674-2787.
Others ...
Chronic Pain and Depression Group, 11 a.m. to noon, Mental Health Association of Abilene, 333 Orange St., 325-673-2300.
Big Country Chapter American Association of Medical Transcriptionists meeting, 10 a.m., Arbec Room, first floor, Texas State Technical College, East Highway 80, Abilene. For medical transcriptionists or anyone interested in becoming one. 325-698-8898.
Abilene Society of Model Railroaders, 10 a.m. to noon, 598 Westwood Drive.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 18
Model railroad open house
In honor of National Model Railroad Month, an open house of the Kannapolis River and Buffalo Northern Railroad model will be presented from 1-5 p.m. at 2324 Moore St. Admission is free.
'The Nutcracker'
Abilene Ballet Theatre will present its annual production of "The Nutcracker" at 2:30 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre, 352 Cypress St. For tickets or information, go to abileneballettheatre.org.
Stores across the country are preparing themselves for the biggest shopping day of the year - Black Friday - when hordes of shoppers hungry for deep discounts on big ticket items head for the stores to find that one perfect gift.
Shopping for the holidays isn't just stressful, it's turned into an endurance race where only the fittest survive and the starting gun goes off after everyone finishes their turkey. Fortunately, a little bit of preparation can go a long way in reducing the stress and the hectic holiday spending sprees.
To help you best plan how to you should best spend your time and money this year, WalletHub looked at nearly 7,000 deals being offered by 35 of the largest retailers in the United States and broke it down by which stores and category of items will have the largest discounts. Categories include items like "Apparel & Accessories" "Computers & Phones" "Appliances" or "Consumer Electronics."
According to the survey, most of the biggest discounts this year will be found in the Apparel and Accessories category with 23% of stores offering discounts for those types of items.
There are plenty of deals available on Black Friday for Computers and phones according to WalletHub's survey with with 12% of stores offering discounts on those items.
Jewelry will also see some steep discounts, especially at stores like Sears, Stage, Kohl's, Belk and JC Penny.
Experts say people should pace themselves for Black Friday and be diligent in distinguishing the real deals from the marketing traps. University of North Carolina Assistant Professor Mark Pelletier says shoppers shouldn't consider a low price equalling low-quality - especially on Black Friday.
"Always ask yourself if you would you even consider buying this product if it was not deep-discounted. Every Black Friday, retailers bring out products and brands that they would not normally carry to entice people into their stores for "amazing" bargains," said Pelletier. "If you have never heard of a particular brand, there is probably a reason why. Do some research. When tablets and e-readers were all the rage, many retailers had deals on cheap knock-off versions of popular brands."
"Before spending your cold, hard cash on a product that looks good, do some research," Pelletier adds.
Pacing yourself can also keep you from overspending on Black Friday. A good rule of thumb when shopping on Black Friday is to stick to your plan and avoid spending money on what seem like great deals. If you don't absolutely have to purchase a particular item, you really shouldn't, even if you feel like you're saving a lot of money.
"Impulse purchases can quickly lead to financial hardships. Have a game plan before heading out to shop and stick to it. Never spend more than you plan on, and don't use credit if you aren't able to take control of it. Psychology research has shown us that there is indeed a "pain of paying" that kicks in to protect us from spending too much," said Pelletier. "Getting caught up in emotion can sometimes cause us to ignore or suppress this pain, but it's there for a reason, so listen to it!"
Deals on Black Friday can often be outdone by other big shopping days that have sprung up around Black Friday. For instance, depending on the item, you may be able to save more money by purchasing it on "Cyber Monday."
"Services, such as digital products, and small ticket items for Cyber Monday and big-ticket items for Black Friday is the best bet," Pelletier says.
WalletHub determined the best stores for Black Friday by surveying nearly 7,000 deals from 35 of the biggest retailers' Black Friday ads. The following stores were included in the survey:
Academy Sports + Outdoors
Ace Hardware
Amazon
Belk
Best Buy
Big Lots
BJ's
Costco
Dell Home
Dick's Sporting Goods
Fred Meyer
Gander Outdoors
Harbor Freight
HP
JCPenney
Jet.com
Kmart
Kohl's
Lenovo
Macy's
Meijer
Microsoft
New York & Company
Newegg
Office Depot and OfficeMax
Payless ShoeSource
Sam's Club
Sears
Shopko
Stage (includes its five brands: Stage, Bealls (not to be confused with Bealls of Florida), Goody's, Palais Royal and Peebles)
Demi Lovato has a new phone number. Sure, changing one's digits doesn't seem like anything extraordinary, but for Lovato, it's another step in the right direction toward a fresh start.
On Tuesday (November 13), the singer invited friends to DM her on Instagram to receive her new phone number. Of course, this prompted thousands — maybe millions — of her Lovatics to reach out, but it's good to see the musician taking control of who she keeps in her inner circle. It was previously reported that Lovato would ditch her old phone number in August and only gave her new one out to trusted mentors and friends in order to nix drug dealers, users, and negativity from her life.
As you know, the "Sorry Not Sorry" singer, who was spotted out of rehab earlier this month, has had to make a lot of adjustments since she overdosed in her Hollywood Hills home in July.
Since the terrifying episode, Lovato has turned her life around tremendously. She celebrated being 90-days soberlast month, she's balancing her new life with exercise and visits a sober house three days a week.
Additionally, the 26-year-old's ex-boyfriend, actor Wilmer Valderrama, has remained a constant in her life every step of the way. A source told TMZ the former couple "still communicate regularly," meet and speak several times a week despite not being pictured in the public eye together.
Still, the "Games" artist's return to the spotlight has not come without its share of rocky moments. After sharing an image of her placing her vote in the midterm elections on Instagram, fans had to come to her defense as trolls bombarded Lovato's comments with body-shaming insults.
Lucky we live in Abilene and this is a normal thing. Even this Friday we have Mission Thanksgiving, Also Angel Tree and more! But for most this is not. Lady G want to make giving during the hoilday season as normal as it is here in the 325 and we can help even more! The campaign is dubbed the #MultiplyYourGood Challenge, encouraging people to donate both gently used items and money to a local nonprofit. After participating, Gaga is asking everyone to share their tasks with the world under the #MultiplyYourGood hashtag and submit how you’re helping here.
The challenge starts November 13 and runs through December 21. Any act submitted before the deadline will be multiplied by the Born This Way foundation, doubling every contribution with an act of their own.
One lucky winner will even receive a trip to Las Vegas to join Gaga’s foundation for a day of service and see her in concert. Click here for more details.
“Sometimes the challenges we face can feel overwhelming, but I want everyone to remember that we all have the power to do good in our communities,” explained Cynthia Germanotta, the co-founder and president of the Born This Way Foundation.
"Two years ago, the internet was sent into a tizzy by a dress that was either blue or gold. Earlier this year, "Yanni" and "Laurel" were vying for our attention. And simmering underneath it all was a question that nobody bothered to ask... until now.
What color is an Oreo cookie?
I’ve always thought the cookie part of the Oreo was black. You probably do too. I’ve tasted just about every Oreo cookie ever created. I’ve loved Oreo cookies since I was a kid. But guess what? Some people think the cookie is brown. To me, that’s like waking up to the news that the world has decided that the Pink Power Ranger is now actually Fuchsia. No. No it is not.
This all started when I was reading the FAQ for Mondelez, Oreo’s parent company. My job is to write about food, so it’s not that weird of a thing to do! Here’s the actually weird thing: Mondelez refuses to weigh in on the color of the Oreo cookie. Even though it’s clearly black!
Here's the official stance from Oreo's dad:
“We do not have a color assigned to the cookie portion of an OREO. Some people think the OREO is a shade of brown, while others view the color closer to black.”
Who the hell are the people who think it’s brown? They’re out there!"
"Woody has always been confident about his place in the world and that his priority is taking care of his kid, whether that’s Andy or Bonnie. But when Bonnie adds a reluctant new toy called “Forky” to her room, a road trip adventure alongside old and new friends will show Woody how big the world can be for a toy.
The movie will be directed by Josh Cooley and will be released on June 21, 2019.
2018 Fall Festival
Saturday, Oct. 27 - 6-9p
Free admission
GV Daniels Recreation Center // 541 N. 8th St.
Dia de los Muertos
Featuring Abilene Philharmonic and Ballet Folkorico del Big Country
Saturday, Oct. 27 - 7:30p Click here for tickets.
Abilene Convention Center // 1100 N. 6th St.
Pumpkin Ball
Saturday, Oct. 27 - 4-11p
$10 admission
Play Faire Park // 2300 N. 2nd St.
Mall-O-Ween
Tuesday, Oct. 30 - 6-8p
Free admission
Mall of Abilene // 4310 Buffalo Gap Rd.
Fall Festival
Wednesday, Oct. 31 - 6-8p
Free Admission
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center // 1674 Pine St.
Star Student March 2024: Jed Thompson - Meet Jed Thompson, our "Black Plumbing - Abilene Teachers FCU" Star Student of March 2024! With a stellar 4.0 GPA, Jed is setting the academic bar high. But his achievements don't stop there! He's also deeply involved in extracurricular activities that reflect his enthusiasm for agriculture and community service.
April 17th, 2024 11:00am
Interview with Country Musician: Jimmy Fortune
Interview with Country Musician: Jimmy Fortune - Join us for an insightful chat with music legend Jimmy Fortune, ahead of his concert at The Historic Paramount Theatre in Abilene on Wednesday, April 10th. Don't miss the chance to experience the magic of his timeless tunes – secure your tickets now at Jimmy Fortune in Concert!
@Jennwybieracki_
and kindness?
