Good morning, Odessa.

On August 8, the Odessa Police Department took part in back-to-school events at Music City Mall, ECISD, and Wings of Promise by giving out backpacks, stickers, and prizes to local students and families.

The department wished all students a safe and successful school year—continuing its support for community engagement.

Tubby's Kitchen will host its second annual Community Giveback Event on August 16 at noon, where the Midland restaurant will distribute 700 to 1,000 platters of fried fish.

Alex Cammarata, a long-time NewsWest 9 anchor who started as a sports reporter, said goodbye to the Permian Basin after four years on air—he thanked viewers, colleagues and supporters as he prepared to move on.

Grace Christian Church will launch Thursday services on Aug.

14 with a 6:45 p.m. start and dinner at 6 p.m., while Sunday services remain unchanged. About 50 volunteers have prepared to serve weekend attendees+ the change aims to help those who work on Sundays attend church.

Odessa police arrested Karina Sanchez Thursday after she left a child unsupervised in a parked car outside Sam’s Club for about 26 minutes in 99-degree heat—witnesses reported the child was sweating, crying and jumping between seats while medics treated the youngster.

UTPB’s first Introduction to Manufacturing class completed an eight-week course that taught students to use advanced machines like 3D printers, laser cut tables, and plasma cutters.

Graduates received internship or job offers from local manufacturers — UTPB will offer the course every fall, spring, and summer to meet the area's workforce needs.

Odessa College launched two Amazon Hub Locker locations on campus to help students, faculty, and staff receive and return packages securely.

The lockers are at the Sports Center and Wrangler Hall — McKay said they will boost campus convenience.

The West Texas VA Health Care System is seeking volunteer drivers to help rural veterans reach their VA clinics using official vehicles.

Applicants need a valid driver's license since the VA covers gas + maintenance and will handle required checks at no cost.

On Friday, August 8, 2025, Odessa Police Department inducted 11 new police academy graduates at the Marriott Hotel & Conference Center — Chief Mike Gerke said local graduates, including Officer Alfredo Ayala Jr., expect to start roles such as the Traffic Unit as they begin their law enforcement careers. The ceremony marked an important step in strengthening the department’s efforts to serve the community.

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.

Permian Basin Fair and Expo

10 a.m. to 10 p.m. — Ector County Coliseum — Admission varies — Experience ten days of fun with live music, rides, shows, and food galore.

ZZ Top Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center — Tickets required — Experience the legendary rock icons as they continue to deliver their unique blend of rock, blues, and boogie.

First Friday ODTX

6-9 p.m. — Downtown Odessa — Free entry — Experience a lively monthly celebration of music, games, and delicious food in the heart of Odessa.