THE HECK'S THANKSGIVING ROAD TRIP GOES AWRY, AND THE KIDS HAVE TO DECIDE WHICH OF THEM GETS LAID OFF FROM SPUDSY'S, ON ABC'S 'THE MIDDLE'

"Thanksgiving IX" - The Hecks take a hectic road trip for Thanksgiving to Frankie's sister's house but soon find themselves running into barriers that could make them late to the feast; and with Axl now working with Sue and Brick at Spudsy's, they have been informed by their manager that, due to budget issues, one of them needs to quit, and they must decide amongst themselves which one will take the hit, on "The Middle," TUESDAY, NOV. 14 (8:00-8:30 p.m. EST), on The ABC Television Network.

"The Middle" stars Patricia Heaton as Frankie, Neil Flynn as Mike, Charlie McDermott as Axl, Eden Sher as Sue and Atticus Shaffer as Brick.

Guest starring in this episode are Jimmy Bellinger as Edwin, Johnny Dowers as cashier, Christopher Goodman as man, Jake Elliott as Carter, Carlos E. Campos as guy, Sarah Jane Mackay as woman and Sally Brooks as Jocelyn.

"Thanksgiving IX" was written by Jana Hunter & Mitch Hunter and directed by Phil Traill.

"The Middle" is broadcast in 720 Progressive (720P), ABC's selected HDTV format with a 5.1 channel surround sound. A TV parental guideline will be assigned closer to the airdate.