Good morning, Odessa.

The 12th annual Bustin for Badges fundraiser started on April 30 at Windwalker Farms to support local law enforcement, with 100% of the funds going to agencies like the Odessa Police Department and county sheriff’s offices—money that helps buy essential equipment.

The event runs for three days and features bustin clay shoots, vendors, raffle prizes, and food while organizers plan next year’s fundraiser.

The 12th annual Bustin' for Badges Clay Shoot is underway in Stanton as a three-day event designed to raise funds for local law enforcement to buy new equipment; organizers say the money will help purchase essential gear.

Police stopped a car for unsafe lane changes near the 1700 block of North Grant Tuesday night and arrested ex-con Lee Roy Rodriguez, 48, after finding a pocketknife with heroin residue, a .38 Special revolver, controlled substances, and $1,500 in his Chevrolet Tahoe—he now faces charges for drug offenses and unlawful weapon possession.

The Ector County Sheriff’s Office is asking the public for help identifying a person of interest connected with a theft at Zone industries on West 83rd Street on April 13—if you have information, please call investigator Mark Luna at 432 335 3050.

A lawsuit was filed on April 25 in the Ector County 70th District Court by Teresa Rodriguez against Ector County ISD and former Odessa High principal Anthony Garcia for an ATV collision on school grounds in September 2023 that struck her 14-year-old son while he played football—she seeks damages of over $250,000 up to $1 million to cover medical expenses and pain and suffering.

Wilson and Young Medal of Honor Middle School held a ribbon-cutting on April 29 to unveil a new courtyard that took three years to complete, along with a time capsule and the Victory Garden.

Teachers said the projects boost school spirit and encourage students to learn through hands-on research.

UTPB announced that Scott McKown, former Chief of Police for Midland Independent School District, will become its new Chief of Police on May 14—bringing over 30 years of law enforcement experience.

He holds degrees in business and criminal justice from UTPB—qualifying him to lead campus safety.

Viva La Fiesta Odessa

12 PM — Ector County Coliseum — Tickets from $20 — Experience a vibrant celebration with concerts, food trucks, vendors, and exciting carnival activities.

Viva La Fiesta Odessa featuring Javier Rosas y Su Artillería Pesada

12-3 p.m. — Ector County Coliseum — Tickets from $20 — Celebrate with music, food, and carnival fun at this vibrant community festival.

Get The Led Out - A Tribute to Led Zeppelin

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center — Tickets required — Experience the high-energy tribute to Led Zeppelin performed by a Philadelphia-based group with an authentic sound.

Mother & Son Dance

5-9 p.m. — Odessa Marriott Hotel & Conference Center — $25 per person — Celebrate the special bond between mothers and sons with music, dancing, and fun activities.

Friday Night Flicks – Toy Story

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Salinas Park — Free entry — Enjoy a family-friendly movie night featuring Toy Story with games and food trucks.

Odessa Hiring Fair

5-8 a.m. — Workforce Solutions Permian Basin — Free entry — Connect with diverse employers and explore job opportunities across various industries.

The Warner & Forbes Experience

5-8 p.m. — Brantley Creek BBQ — No cover charge — Enjoy the timeless era of classic rock songs with Warner & Forbes while savoring the best barbecue in Odessa.