Saturday, January 17th, 2026
Good morning, Odessa. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 17th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Odessa Links will host its second annual Big Game Watch Fundraiser to support efforts in tackling homelessness at 5 p.m. Feb. 8 at the Odessa Marriott Hotel and Conference Center — the event will offer tailgate foods, drinks, entertainment and a raffle to benefit local services. Odessa American
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ A U.S. Geological Survey study has found 1.6 billion barrels of oil and 28.3 trillion cubic feet of gas in the Woodford and Barnett shales of the Permian Basin, with resources located as deep as 20,000 feet. Advances in hydraulic fracturing and horizontal drilling could make energy recovery possible. NewsWest9
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Today, Ector County ISD held an emergency evacuation drill at Noel Elementary School to test gas leak procedures; about 60 students, teachers and counselors were transported to Holy Redeemer Church for reunification. Officials say the drill sharpens the skills needed to respond quickly in an emergency. CBS7
- ➤ UTPB’s Shepperd Leadership Institute will host ESPN reporter Holly Rowe at the Distinguished Lecture Series on Feb. 10 at 7:00 p.m. at Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center, where Rowe will share her story of resilience and cancer advocacy. CBS7
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ This morning the Odessa Chamber of Commerce hosted its 2nd Inaugural Pastries & Politics meet-and-greet at their Chamber with nearly 120 members meeting local, state, and federal officials (including Senator Kevin Sparks and Mayor Cal Hendrick) to discuss community issues. Odessa American
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Permian swept Odessa High in a Friday doubleheader, with the girls winning 49-44 and the boys securing a 52-46 win. The teams will renew the rivalry at Odessa High Fieldhouse on Feb.-6 as records shift and season dynamics heat up. NewsWest9
- ➤ UTPB head coach Chris Softley announced his new football coaching staff for the 2026 season, adding seven coaches (including three coordinators) chosen from top college programs. The hires, which include names like Chris Meyers and Josh Bookbinder, promise to build a strong foundation for the Falcons in Odessa. NewsWest9
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Read to Felix
4-5 p.m. — Ector County Library — Free entry — Kids are invited to read stories and give ear scritches to Felix the friendly animal companion.
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Kevin James Live
8 p.m. — Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of laughter with comedian Kevin James, known for his hit sitcoms and stand-up performances.
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Rams Alumni Reunion in Odessa
4-6 p.m. — Cork & Pig Tavern — Free entry — Reconnect with fellow Ram fans and get energized for game day with good conversations and door prizes.
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The Rampage Rumble
6:30-9:30 p.m. — Barn G — $20 VIP, $10 general admission — Experience the ultimate wrestling showdown with Rampage Wrestlers in action.
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Welcome to the Good Day Odessa, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Odessa, Texas community. If you like the Good Day Odessa, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Odessa.
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