Hey there, neighbor! Yesterday was quite the eventful day in Abilene, and I’ve got some highlights to share over our morning coffee. First off, it was Halloween, and while many were out trick-or-treating, high school football was also on everyone’s minds. Week 10 of the season kicked off, with teams across the Big Country taking to the field. If you missed the games, I’m sure there were some nail-biters and plenty of school spirit on display, as usual!

In other news, it’s that time of year again—Daylight Saving Time ends this Sunday, November 2nd. So, remember to set your clocks back an hour before bed on Saturday night! A little extra sleep is always a nice treat, especially after a busy Halloween. Speaking of treats, if you’re still in the festive spirit, there are also some fun events lined up for this weekend, including musicals and community happenings that could be a great way to keep the Halloween vibe alive just a tad longer.

On a more serious note, there were a couple of troubling incidents reported yesterday. A suspect involved in a struggle with Abilene police earlier this month was identified and arrested, which is a reminder of the challenges our community faces. Plus, police have identified a man accused of multiple carjackings and robberies at a local Family Dollar, thanks to a forehead tattoo—definitely not the kind of Halloween story we'd like to hear!

Lastly, it seems that the ongoing shutdown has led to a rise in calls for help to the United Way of Abilene, with a 10% increase reported just this past week. It’s tough seeing our neighbors in need, but it’s heartening to know that organizations like United Way are there to support them. Let’s keep an eye out for ways we can lend a hand as we head into the holiday season. Here's hoping for a cheerful November ahead!