Good morning, Odessa.

Baker Hughes reported the Permian Basin rig count dropped by one from last week to 270 rigs—down from 305 a year ago.

Nationally, the rig count fell by seven to 547 rigs while the regional oil price dropped to $62.00 per barrel, $9.41 lower than last week.

On Tuesday, the Ector County ISD Board approved a 2025-26 budget with $373 million in revenues and expenditures, leading to a $4 million gap due to state-mandated pay raises for teachers and other staff.

The board also raised starting teacher pay to $61,000, increased bus driver wages and minimum pay, and hired a new principal for Ireland Elementary and a new chief financial officer—steps that support the district’s goals.

Today, Odessa is switching back to using chloramines to clean water after a month of using only chlorine to deep-clean the pipes.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has been notified of the change, which may take a couple weeks to fully spread through the water system.

A new law today banned online lottery ticket sales—players can still buy tickets in person while Senate Bill 3070 lets the Texas lottery operate until 2029.

2025 Firecracker Fandango

6:00-10:00 p.m. — Downtown Odessa — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with live music, local food, and family-friendly activities.

Beginner Nail Course

9 AM – 3 PM — OCI, 3205 Kermit Hwy, Odessa, TX — $348.52 — Enhance your nail artistry skills in this hands-on, in-person course.

Odessa Geek Fest

9 AM – 12 PM — Ector County Coliseum — Cost info not provided — Celebrate your favorite anime, comics, and pop culture with vendors, panels, and performances.

Bridal & Quinceañera Dream Life Expo

1-4 p.m. — Odessa Marriott Hotel & Conference Center — Free entry — Experience a vibrant boho desert-themed expo with top vendors for your dream celebration.

Johnny Blaine at Diamond's Country Bar

8 PM – 12 AM — Diamond's Country Bar — Cost info not provided — Enjoy a night of live country music with Johnny Blaine at one of Odessa's top venues.

Professional Women's Relaxation Conference 2025

3 PM – 4 PM — Odessa Marriott Hotel & Conference Center — Tickets go on sale March 1! — Enhance your career and well-being with relaxation strategies.

Odessa Men's City Championship

Tournament — Jul 25-27 — Ratliff Ranch Golf Links — Entry fee required — Compete in a 54-hole stroke play event with various flights for players.