Good morning, Odessa.

The Odessa Police Department raised about $30,000 at a Bailey Martin fundraiser+ the funds aided emergency support for the family of Martin, who lost his fiancée and family members in the July 4 flooding in Central Texas+ officials said the event honored his memory.

The Midland County Sheriff's Office—assisted by the U.S. Marshall’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations—located hotel murder suspect Isaiah Diaz.

Cheryl Wilson is now the executive director of accountability and school improvement at Ector County ISD and will help campuses turn test score data into actionable plans—she is set to lead data tours and revise the PLC process.

She brings extensive teaching and leadership experience from several districts to support 33,000 students.

Adinvita Private School in Odessa will add a virtual high school through the University of Texas at Austin this academic year—offering online courses with live instruction in electives like art and PE while maintaining college readiness and community internships.

The school has also changed to a four-day week, with Monday through Thursday for classes and Friday for teacher planning and available day care.

At a Tuesday meeting at the Courthouse Annex, the Ector County Commissioners Court voted unanimously to join the Texas Association of Counties group coverage with Blue Cross Blue Shield so that county employees will have new health insurance next year.

The court also approved measures to close the library for a luncheon discussion, rename its Parks committee, finalize a lease with the Odessa Chuck Wagon Gang, and begin planning a runway improvement proposal with TxDOT — officials said these actions support ongoing county improvements.

The Odessa City Council learned Tuesday from Gallagher Human Resource that raising its 900 staff members' salaries to the 75th percentile would cost an extra $2.8 million per year—while filling 138 vacancies would add over $7 million annually, leaving salaries roughly 11% below market. The council also approved measures for parking solutions, equipment upgrades, utility relocations for the IH-20 widening project, and affordable housing plans with Habitat for Humanity.

Crystal Crews — a longtime NewsWest 9 anchor for 30 years — received a proclamation from Mayor Cal Hendrick at the city council meeting on July 22 that named the day in her honor.

The official recognition drew applause at City Hall.

At its recent meeting, the Odessa City Council analyzed a salary survey that revealed large pay gaps and planned future changes while reviewing courtroom security measures.

Council members said they will finalize details soon — aiming to reduce inequities and improve safety.

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.

Back to School Bash

2-4 p.m. — Music City Mall Carousel Stage — Free entry — Celebrate the end of summer with fun activities, prizes, and a chance to win exclusive backpacks loaded with goodies.

Jaripeo Dance Festival

6-10 p.m. — Ector County Coliseum — Tickets available — Celebrate Mexican culture with live music, rodeo action, and traditional performances in a festive atmosphere.