Alexsis Jones

The race for Texas House District 71 concluded with Representative Stan Lambert returning to office for a fifth term. Lambert, the Republican incumbent, emerged victorious over returning Democratic challenger Linda Goolsbee.

As Texans cast early ballots in the general election, Texas voters can choose between two candidates for House District 71.

In the heart of the Bible Belt, where faith and tradition shape daily life, college students at Abilene’s Christian universities are finding their political voices ahead of the November election. For many, it will be their first time voting, and their experiences reflect a commitment to building connections across the ideological spectrum.

Sunday marked the start of Hispanic Heritage Month. Aligning with key Independence Days for several Central American countries, including Mexico and Chile, this time is set to honor the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans.

The ever-growing fentanyl crisis continues to cast a long shadow over communities across the country, including Texas. The state’s health department has recorded over 350 fentanyl overdose deaths this year and almost 2,400 last year. In Taylor County, one family's experience has sparked a call to action, and are using their efforts to bring a youth addiction and recovery center to Abilene.

Texas is on track to have one of the hottest summers on record. That includes the Big Country, where Abilene’s most vulnerable residents face mounting challenges related to the heat.With the city’s unhoused population struggling to find relief, local organizations and medical professionals are stepping up efforts to provide essential support and resources. The extreme conditions continue to test the resilience of the city’s infrastructure and its residents.

After 61 recent earthquakes, Scurry County Judge Dan Hicks declared a State of Disaster Friday morning as many in the Big Country felt the second big quake in less than six days.

UPDATE: SHOW'S LAST PERFORMANCES HAVE BEEN CANCELED DUE TO ILLNESS 7/5/24Last Friday was opening night for the local production of Legally Blonde the Musical. It was chosen as the Paramount Productions’ 31st Annual Summer Musical.

Texas has lost more rural hospitals than any other state in recent years, and many counties lack adequate primary care services. In response to the challenges faced by rural communities and disaster-stricken areas, mobile health clinics are rolling out to provide vital medical services where they're needed most. These clinics could help residents of the Big Country and beyond.

The Storybook Capital of America hosted the Children’s Art and Literacy Festival over the weekend and unveiled the latest addition to Abilene's statue collection. Throughout Abilene’s downtown, and in the Adamson Spalding Storybook Garden, you’ll find statues of everything from Dr. Seuss characters to the big bad wolf. This year’s new character caused some controversy, but the protests didn't interrupt the creativity.