As I come up on my four-year anniversary of moving to Abilene to serve as Vice President of the Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau, I’ve found myself reflecting on what truly makes this community special. I’ve worked in and visited many cities across Texas, but Abilene stands apart in one powerful way: when this community believes in something, it rallies together and makes it happen.
I’ve seen it time and again. Whether it’s supporting a local business, volunteering for a community event, investing in quality-of-life projects, or celebrating our arts and culture, Abilene has a rare ability to move as one. There’s a shared sense of pride here. Pride in who we are, where we come from, and where we’re headed. That collective spirit isn’t accidental. It’s the result of people who care deeply about this city and aren’t afraid to show it.
That’s why I’m excited to ask our community to rally once again, this time around an opportunity that puts Abilene on a statewide stage.
Abilene is competing in Star Spangled Texas, a statewide mural competition created to celebrate America250, the upcoming 250th anniversary of our nation. Ten Texas towns are competing head-to-head for a chance to win one of three custom murals commissioned by ARCA Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages in partnership with Texas Monthly. Each mural is uniquely designed to reflect the creativity, pride, and local character of the winning community.
Here’s the most important part: the winners are determined entirely by public voting. There are no judges behind closed doors. No panels. No formulas. Community participation alone decides which towns win.
This is exactly the kind of moment Abilene shines!
A custom mural is more than just paint on a wall. It’s a lasting statement about who we are as a community. It’s a visual story that residents and visitors alike will experience, one that celebrates Abilene’s character, creativity, and heritage. Murals become gathering points, photo backdrops, and sources of civic pride. They contribute to our cultural landscape and help tell Abilene’s story long after the final vote is cast.
Voting is open now and ends February 28. I encourage you to take a moment to vote and then share the link with your family, friends, coworkers, and networks within your business, organization, or group chats. Every single vote counts, and momentum matters.
You can vote here: https://texasmonthly.com/starspangledtexas
Four years ago, I moved to Abilene because of a job opportunity. I’ve stayed, and grown deeply invested, because of the people. This community’s ability to come together is its greatest strength. Star Spangled Texas is another chance to prove what so many of us already know: when Abilene rallies around an idea, great things happen.
Let’s show Texas who we are.