Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 20th of March.
Good morning, Odessa.
🚨 Crime
Odessa Fire Rescue reported that at about 2:04 a.m. on Wednesday, March 19, an early morning fire on the 4900 block of N.
Dixie Blvd burned an RV and a large ATV completely and damaged a room in a nearby home — officials suspect arson and note that another home suffered attic and exterior damage.
🎓 Education
UTPB was awarded funding as part of the NWAY-II NASA grant in March 2024 to boost its after-school STEM program for middle school students in the Midland-Odessa area—teacher candidates guide a 14-week space research curriculum and will begin recruiting the next cohort in April.
This new funding fills a gap by providing local middle schoolers with hands-on space science experience and classroom support for future educators.
Before Spring Break, two Ector County ISD leaders visited the Texas Capitol in Austin to discuss public education needs.
Principal Amy Russell and Director Lauren Tavarez met with state officials about House Bills 2 and 26—aiming to secure better funding and policies for ECISD.
🏛️ Government
The Ector County Commissioners Court approved renovations to combine barns B and C at the county coliseum to add over 43,000 square feet of air-conditioned space, new restrooms and concession stands for larger events.
The two-million-dollar project funded by the hotel occupancy fund will be completed in March or April 2026 — local groups are providing feedback on the plans.
🏥 Health
West Texas Gifts of Hope broke ground on an expansion at Hope House at 700 W.
First St. on March 19th. The project—expected to be finished in September—will double the lodging capacity by adding four bedrooms, a laundry room and other key spaces for cancer patients from the region.
🎉 Odessa Events
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Hockey Showdown: Corpus Christi IceRays vs. Odessa Jackalopes
Watch the Odessa Jackalopes face off against the Corpus Christi IceRays at the Ector County Coliseum for an exciting night of hockey.
Binomio de Oro de América in Odessa, TX
Experience a night of vallenato music with the renowned group Binomio de Oro de América at La Playa Night Club.
Comprehensive PMP Certification Training in Odessa, TX
This four-day classroom training program offers in-depth preparation for the PMP certification including instructor-led sessions, mock exams, and real-world case studies.
Amarillo Wranglers vs. Odessa Jackalopes
7:15-11:15 p.m. | Ector County Coliseum | Ticket prices vary | Enjoy an exciting hockey matchup between local teams amidst a lively atmosphere.
On-Site Tour of Holiday Lincoln Tower
Explore the amenities and community at Holiday Lincoln Tower, a highly-rated senior living community in Odessa, Texas.
Midessa Boat, RV, Sport & Gun Show
10 a.m. - 6 p.m. — Ector County Coliseum — Admission fees apply — Explore a variety of boats, RVs, sports gear, and firearms at this exciting local show.
🏠 Odessa Real Estate
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💼 Odessa Job Board
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📣 Odessa Announcements
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