Kim delaPena News


Midland Run Crew Announces Opportunities for Families of ‘All Fitness Levels’

Midland Run Crew (MRC) announced its schedule of fitness opportunities for families and individuals of all ages and fitness levels. The group was established in 2016 as an alternative fitness community for families in the Midland area. It has expanded to become a non-profit organization through word of mouth and regular events, or “meetups.”


New $35 Million Sports Facility Funded by Community Donations, Not Taxes

The Midland Athletic Syndicate sports facility has pulled off a rare feat. The new facility will be erected at a cost of roughly $35 million to benefit local athletes, and has been funded entirely by local foundations and West Texas companies. No tax funds will be used to pay for the facility.


Meet Liz Ford, General Manager for Local Homewood Suites by Hilton

Liz Ford, General Manager for Homewood Suites by Hilton in Midland, has worked for more than six years with the Hilton organization. Ford emphasizes mentorship, fosters cultural respect, and offers support for all staff, including those aiming for leadership roles.


Protecting Vulnerable Adults: The Role of Adult Protective Services

Adult Protective Services (APS) plays a crucial role in safeguarding vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. APS of the Permian Basin, addresses the diverse needs of elderly and disabled adults who may be facing challenging circumstances.


Local Senator Kevin Sparks Attends Interstate Cleanup Effort

State Senator Kevin Sparks, who represents Midland, joined numerous volunteers to pick up trash along the Eastbound I-20 on June 15.


Be the Change Welcomes New Executive Director Haylee McBride

Haylee McBride was named the new Executive Director at Be The Change in January, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to teaching leadership and kindness in local school districts. According to McBride, she plans to share her knowledge with junior high and high school students through an adventure-based learning program that emphasizes compassion.


Local advocates unite to shield seniors from summer heat

Senior Life Midland and Meals on Wheels Odessa will hold a joint fan drive on Saturday, June 22, from 9 a.m. to Noon at their respective locations: 3301 Sinclair Ave in Midland and 1315 E. 5th Street in Odessa.


Oilfield companies join forces to clean I-20

The Chief Strategy Officer for American Safety Services Keith Stelter has been championing the cleanup of Interstate 20, and numerous local companies joined forces to help with the last cleanup held June 15.


Grand Companions: Helping People Save Stray Pets

Grand Companions was founded in 1989 to help people save, honor, and connect with homeless pets, and to find them homes, according to Program Coordinator Nash Traylor and Executive Director Laura Langham.


American Safety Services Inaugurates New I-20 Training Facility and Fire Service Fleet

American Safety Services celebrated the grand opening of its new training facility and fire service fleet on June 6. The expansion facility is located along Interstate 20 in West Texas.


Meet Andrea Goodson, Manager of Public Affairs for Atmos Energy

Andrea Goodson has served as the Manager of Public Affairs at Atmos Energy in Midland for five years. Goodson is an advocate in the company for investing time in your personal life and growth, and creating a culture of inclusiveness.


Midland Soup Kitchen Expands Facility to Meet Growing Demand

Midland Soup Kitchen Ministry is expanding its dining room facility and undergoing roof upgrades at 1401 Orchard Lane. The dining hall is being enlarged to accommodate more diners.


New Film Production Company Opening to Serve the Community

A new film production company is opening in Midland. Permann Film & Media will offer film and production services for businesses and individuals.


Grand Companion to Host Hike with Homeless Pets

Grand Companion will hold its regular Hike with Homeless Pets event at Sibley Nature Center on Thursday, June 6, from 9am to 10am, at 1307 E Wadley Ave in Midland.


Celebration Marks 100th Birthday of George H.W. Bush

An event to celebrate George H.W. Bush’s 100th birthday will be held at the Bush Family Home State Historic Site in Midland, on Thursday, June 13, from 5 PM to 8 PM. The home is located at 1412 W Ohio Ave. The event will feature live music, a cookout, and a crazy sock contest.


Agents In Action Hosts Cornhole Tournament to Support 11-Year Old Grayson Pickett

Agents In Action is hosting a cornhole tournament at Hogan Park to support Grayson Pickett, an 11-year-old boy in Midland diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. The event will take place on June 8 from 12 PM to 7 PM, with planned activities.


Professional Women's Conference to Focus on Balance and Relaxation

The Professional Women’s Conference is inviting Midland women to join its second annual "Achieving Harmony" conference from July 11-13, 2024, at the Odessa Marriott Hotel & Conference Center. The conference is designed for women seeking balance and relaxation.


Be the Change Welcomes New Executive Director Haylee McBride

Haylee McBride has been named the new Executive Director at Be the Change, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to teaching leadership and kindness in local school districts. According to McBride, she plans to share her knowledge with junior high and high school students through an adventure-based learning program that emphasizes compassion.


Midland Health Auxiliary donates funds for new birthing simulator

Midland Health's Auxiliary Gift Shop has donated over $84,000 to purchase a new birthing simulator after the previous one expired. The shop donates all profits to Midland Health departments as part of its status as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, according to Director of Auxiliary Services Jackie Geiling.


Midland’s Jax Rental & Equipment Celebrates One-Year Anniversary

Jax Rental & Equipment is marking its first anniversary in Midland. In 2023, Owners Jorge and Jami Juarez purchased a closing equipment rental company where Jorge previously worked as a manager for 13 years, according to Jami Juarez.