Good morning, Odessa.

Power West Texas launched a campaign Tuesday to back the Permian Basin Reliability Plan (a push to speed up a vital electric transmission project) that aims to meet growing power demands across West Texas for schools, hospitals and businesses.

On Tuesday, July 28, Ector County ISD held its annual Back to School Bash at Barn G of the Ector County Coliseum + families received free backpacks and school supplies on a first-come, first-served basis while the first 300 guests enjoyed free snow cones until the event ended at 6 p.m.

The West Texas VA Health Care System invites veterans to have their portraits taken for Vital Signs magazine’s Faces of Service feature.

Their portraits, including Army veteran Brian Bailey’s, will appear in the 2026 issue to share stories and highlight available healthcare resources.

The Ector County Commissioner’s Court approved work on Kellus Turner Park Tuesday to add a community center, restrooms and landscaping in Odessa (a key development for local residents) with plans to start work soon.

Midland Memorial Hospital received the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline Regional Recognition award for its work treating severe heart attacks.

The hospital worked with EMS and local partner facilities to boost rapid, quality care.

Special Olympics Texas announced the Fall Classic will return Oct.

8-10 in Odessa and Midland. The event includes competitions like bocce, softball, equestrian, golf and swimming as well as a BBQ cook-off called High Steaks in the Basin with over $100K in prizes (announcement made at UTPB Engineering Building).