News from August 2023


Fix West Texas remembers late teen supporter at annual golf tournament

Midland-based non-profit organization Fix West Texas (FWT) had a huge supporter in the late Veronica Sanchez, and the 19-year-old was remembered immensely at the group’s fourth annual golf tournament on Aug. 22. Veronica was fatally shot by a co-worker at a fast food restaurant in early 2022.


City of Midland to ‘Fly into fall’ with free aviation event

The Midland's Department of Airports confirmed plans to host its second annual “Fly into Fall’ event on Aug. 26 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Midland Airpark, according to a Your Basin report.


The Grind Coffee and Korean Dessert opens in Midland

The Grind Coffee and Korean Dessert has made its way to West Texas, according to a Your Basin report.


Midland County commissioner confirms plans for re-election

Midland County Commissioner Luis Sanchez announced his plans to run for re-election earlier this month at Martinez Bakery, NewsWest9 reports.


City of Midland unveils plans to address flooding

The City of Midland has revealed its plans to address the ongoing flooding across the city and improve road safety for vehicles and pedestrians, a recent YourBasin report said.


Midland Development Corporation receives more proposals to carry out Downtown Midland master plan

The Midland Development Corporation heard two additional proposals last week for the completion of the city’s downtown master plan, NewsWest 9 reported. The presentations were hosted by Halff and Parkhill Smith and Cooper.


Midland officials identify official cause of grass fires on Highway 80

The City of Midland identified the cause of the grass fires along Highway 80, according to a Your Basin report.


Texas Transportation Commission approves largest single investment proposal for Permian Basin roads and highways

The 2024 Unified Transportation Plan approved last week by the Texas Transportation Commission will serve as the largest investment allocated toward Permian Basin roads and highways, according to a NewsWest 9 report.


Midland City Council issues proclamation for Walk to End Alzheimer's Day

On Aug. 22, the Midland City Council issued a proclamation declaring Sept. 16, 2023 as Walk to End Alzheimer's Day. This year’s event will be held at the Conterra Pavilion at the city’s Scharbauer Sports Complex at 5514 Champions Dr. beginning at 8:30 a.m.


Avellan: 'AST SpaceMobile continues to make history'

AST SpaceMobile Inc., the company building the first space-based cellular broadband network, announced in its second quarter business update that it achieved space-based 4G LTE cellular broadband capabilities to everyday smartphones.


Anderson: 'This all-stock transaction provides Earthstone’s shareholders with excellent value for their investment'

Permian Resources Corporation announced a definitive agreement for the acquisition of Earthstone Energy.


Landgraf proposes stiffer penalty for hoax threats

Texas State Rep. Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) took to Facebook on Aug. 23 to say he consulted with local law enforcement officials following a fake threat to Permian High School and plans to crack down on such actions. Landgraf said he’ll work to stiffen the penalty for hoax threats.


Hancock Advertising Group: 'We look to continue to improve and perfect our quality of business and services while providing lasting career paths for women in Midland'

Located in Midland Texas, Hancock Advertising Group delivers marketing and advertising solutions, according to the company's website. The company has been employing experts and state-of-the-art technology to provide services to clients for 30 years.


Don Tomás Café: 'The taste and smell of homemade cooking and tortillas that reminds one of their grandmother's home is something worth sharing'

According to its website, “Don Tomás Café” makes a variety of “authentic Mexican food,” including tortillas, burritos, Asado, and more. Located in Midland, Texas, the restaurant is open Tuesday through Friday, with varying hours of operation.


University of Texas Permian Basin introduces payment plan with $35 enrollment fee

On Aug. 21, the University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB) announced that it is introducing a new payment plan to allow students to enroll and start attending classes for just $35 called UTPB 3. UTPB 3 seeks to alleviate the stress of payments and last-minute enrollments for incoming students.


South Carolina IT firm acquires Midland based Wellteck IT

Midland-based computer consultant Wellteck IT has been acquired by South Carolina technology firm VC3, according to a press release. The acquisition will allow it to expand its footprint in the southwestern U.S. and provide a greater local presence in Texas, according to VC3.


Midland Police Department reveals identity of special needs man

The Midland Police Department (MPD) said it has discovered the true identity of the individual known as Cordarius. Authorities said an investigation revealed the person to be 24-year-old Cordarius Lashun Pegues, of Midland, and the man’s mother – identified as 47-year-old Charlotte Latasha Pegues, also of Midland, was arrested on Aug. 21 and charged with exploitation of a disabled individual, according to a Midland Police Department Facebook post.


City of Midland City Council met Aug. 2

City of Midland City Council met Wednesday, Aug. 2


Businesses, homes ordered to evacuate amid acid spill

Various agencies collaborated earlier this week to combat a hydrochloride acid spill based in the SCR 1156 and FM 1213 business area, according to a Your Basin report. The evacuation notice has since been lifted.


Layne's Chicken Fingers makes its way to Odessa-Midland area

Fried chicken chain restaurant Layne’s Chicken Fingers will soon make its way to the Permian Basin, the Odessa American reported.