West Texas Dispatch

The mid-term elections just got a little wilder for West Texas. Congressman Arrington’s announcement that he won’t seek re-election to the 19th district seat opens up an opportunity that rarely comes around.The sky over Abilene will change forever. For decades, the sights and sounds of the B-1 Bomber have become iconic…soon, a new, state of the art long range bomber will take its place. We talk to the company behind the bomber.The nation celebrated Veteran’s Day yesterday. We’ll take a look at how Abilene honors locals who served in America’s armed forces.Cemeteries take a lot of work. We’ll bring you the story of a historic cemetery in Lubbock…and hear about some of the unique challenges administrators face.Playoff football gets underway this week for Texas high schools. Abilene High hopes to make their strong season last a little longer.And KACU’s Christmas radio play is in just a few weeks–we’ll have a preview–and you want to add the event to your calendar.

Individuals, non-profits, and businesses are all looking for ways to help fill the gap for families who rely on federal SNAP benefits. We’ll hear how the West Texas Food Bank is coordinating its resources to respond.The 2025 election offered voters a chance to amend the state’s constitution…and to decide the future finances of local school districts. We’ll wrap up yesterday’s results for you.An invasive species is posing a threat-prices are up and President Trump is working on international trade deals that some beef-producers don’t like. With a number of factors impacting Texas’s beef industry–we’ll check in with a local rancher to hear first hand what it’s like from his side of the process.Hearing more crickets lately? We’ll explain why these noisy guests are showing up in bigger numbers this time of year.From early lights to the city’s big tree lighting, we’re diving into why the holiday season is starting sooner than ever.

Voting is underway in this year’s Constitutional Amendment election. Fewer people traditionally show up to the polls during this type of election. But one hot topic is Abilene ISD’s tax proposal. We’ll hear more about how it would impact property owners – and what the district has in mind for the dollars if it passes.State Senator Charles Perry was in town yesterday, sharing his view on the 89th Legislative Session and discussing this year’s ballot.Running a farm has never been an easy prospect - but a labor shortage is adding to the challenge. And some farmers are trying a novel approach to pest-control… bats.Finally, we’ll hear how a homecoming musical brings together former students and current students.