Good morning, Odessa.

CASA hosted its 'Lunch and Learn' event today to support local child welfare professionals by sharing new techniques in leadership and communication when working with foster children + the event, held in collaboration with West Texas Together, is part of a two-year series designed to build stronger support for vulnerable children.

Volunteers at St. Mary’s Central Catholic School have built strong bonds while organizing the Casino Night fundraiser—arranged by the Knights of Columbus and now held at the Odessa Marriott Hotel & Conference Center.

The team, which includes Deborah Hubert, Carolina Keith, Linda Navarro and Lyd Reyes, has long supported school events and raised funds to benefit the community.

A joint operation during Memorial Day weekend brought together the Odessa Police Department, Ector County Sheriff’s Office, and other agencies, and resulted in multiple arrests for charges including Driving While Intoxicated, furnishing alcohol to a minor, assault on a Public Servant, and possession of a controlled substance + several minor offense citations.

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation issued a six-month emergency closure order on eight massage establishments for suspected human trafficking, including two in Odessa and one in Midland—owners Ruiying Lian, Hongcui Hao and Tianli Wang and their companies are now banned from new operations.

UTPB summer youth programs have begun and will run until Aug.

5. The camps include sports, academics, and music (with events such as football, geology, and Maker Camp sessions) and give local students a preview of college life.

Kevin W. Badgett, Ed.D., has been named the new Dean of Education at Sul Ross State University and its international branch, with his term starting July 1.

He brings over two decades of Texas education experience—having served in various roles at UTPB in Odessa.

Texas lawmakers pushed two bills to end unregulated puppy mill sales by requiring that cats and dogs be sold only from breeding facilities instead of outdoor public spaces.

HB 2012 cleared committees and had its final Senate vote on May 27th while local shelters in Odessa continue to face high euthanasia rates—prompting calls for stricter animal welfare rules.

On Tuesday, May 27th, the Ector County Commissioners Court appointed five commissioners from eight applicants to lead new fire and EMS services for areas outside Odessa — they will meet within the next five days to establish governance, including setting up a bank account and planning for a station to be built in about 18 months. The commissioners were chosen to ensure that funds are spent wisely while the community remains involved in the service's development.

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.

Father's Day Lunch Celebration

11 AM – 3 PM — Odessa Marriott Hotel & Conference Center — Adults $65, Kids $25 — Enjoy a delectable Argentinian Steakhouse-themed lunch in a charming garden setting.

West Texas SuperShow

12 PM — Ector County Coliseum — $64 — Experience an adrenaline-pumping truck and car show featuring live music, stunts, and over 500 amazing rides.

Oil City Tattoo Expo 2025

12-10 p.m. — Ector County Coliseum — Ticket prices vary — Explore tattoo artistry with competitions, live entertainment, and renowned artists.