Good morning, Odessa.

Hispanic Heritage of Odessa is hosting a mariachi group at City Hall to celebrate the city’s diverse communities—Executive Director Carol Uranga said the event will help neighbors learn more about each other.

OPD and the Red Cross will host a Neighborhood Watch meeting on Tuesday, September 30 at 6 p.m. at the OPD Training Facility — 210 N.

Lincoln. The meeting will cover how residents can create emergency plans for natural disasters, fires and medical emergencies.

Odessa homeowner William Dorman said he is frustrated that a homeless camp has formed across the street from his home (he is calling on local officials for help) and worries the encampment could change neighborhood life (residents remain on edge).

A mariachi band performed yesterday at Buena Vida Nursing and Rehabilitation Center as part of Hispanic Heritage Month—its music celebrated local culture.

Christian Halls is offering low-cost Christian higher education in the Permian Basin by partnering with a dozen universities and local mentors—this program helps students earn practical degrees without heavy debt and keeps them in the area.

Founder Nicholas Ellis said the program uses both online and in-person learning with bilingual support to guide students in trades, business, and teacher training.

On Tuesday, the Ector County ISD board approved a tax rate of $1.0048 per $100 in home value for 2025—26, which will raise taxes by 5.4% and add about $15 for a $100,000 home as appraisal values increased.

Voters will decide on November 4th if the homestead exemption should be raised, and a bond update showed that the new career and technical education center is 5% complete with building pads finished and site utilities in progress.

Alex Bradley is walking 2,560 miles to support the fight of suicide as he travels from Austin through Odessa to Oregon City—he asks local residents for support to complete his journey.

Brincos Dieras Comedy Show

8-9:30 p.m. — Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the whimsical comedy of Brincos Dieras, the irreverent clown of Latin America.

Mr. Gnome Concert

2:00 – 9:30 PM — Ector County Library — Cost info not provided — Experience the vibrant sounds of Mr. Gnome with special guests The Talking Hours.

Paula DeAnda & Amanda Perez Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Ector Theatre — Cost TBD — Experience a memorable night of music with Paula DeAnda and Amanda Perez.