Midland Times

News from October 2023


Week ending Oct. 14: Midland County home sales

There were 23 reported residential sales in Midland County in the week ending Oct. 14, according to BlockShopper.com.


Recording Library of West Texas holds Dining in the Dark event

Non-profit organization Recording Library of West Texas recently held its annual Dining in the Dark fundraiser, aiming to raise awareness for individuals who are visually impaired. The event, which took place on October 17, was a success thanks to the donors, sponsors, guests, and volunteers involved.


Midland Police Department observes Domestic Violence Awareness Month

The Midland Police Department (MPD) is taking action to address domestic violence during Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The Permian Basin law enforcement agency has a crime victim liaison available to answer questions and provide support. The liaison can be contacted at (432) 685-7584.


MISD taking steps to boost security at campuses

The Midland Independent School District (MISD) is taking steps to improve security at its campuses and facilities. These efforts include the installation of additional card readers and security cameras. In accordance with a new state mandate, MISD also plans to apply shatter-resistant film to all exterior entryway windows and glass doors.


Pageant winner reveals cancer diagnosis

Current Mrs. America winner and Midland resident Regina Stock has been diagnosed with renal cell carcinoma, a form of cancer affecting her left kidney. The City of Odessa announced the news on its Facebook page and has set up a GoFundMe page to support Stock and her family during this difficult time.


UTPB engineering professor publishes book

University of Texas Permian Basin faculty member Dr. Omar Beg has published a book to help undergraduate electrical engineering students prepare for higher-level courses. Students nationwide can now purchase their copy of Beg’s “Foundations of Electrical Engineering.”


University of Texas Permian Basin hosts Falcon Day, annular solar eclipse viewing party

The University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB) recently hosted two exciting events on the same day. On Oct. 14, UTPB held its Falcon Day while also witnessing the annular solar eclipse.


Mayor Lori Blong: ‘In Midland we attack problems, not people!’

Midland Mayor Lori Blong spoke at a luncheon for the Midland Youth Coalition, where she encouraged the youth leaders to stay strong in the face of challenges. Blong expressed her gratitude for the professionals who dedicate their lives to serving the youth of the community. She acknowledged that Midland's youth face significant challenges and emphasized the importance of attacking problems, not people.


George W. Bush visits Midland to support First Tee West Texas

Former President George W. Bush made a visit to Midland, Texas to show his support for First Tee West Texas, a non-profit organization that aims to make golf accessible to all children. The visit was in conjunction with a fundraising event called Fairways Fore the Future.


City of Midland Planning and Zoning Commission met Sept. 18

City of Midland Planning and Zoning Commission met Monday, Sept. 18


H.S. preview: Midland Christian Mustangs (2-5, 0-2) at Forth Worth Christian Cardinals (4-3, 0-1)

Midland Christian Mustangs (2-5, 0-2) at Forth Worth Christian Cardinals (4-3, 0-1)


Medical Center Hospital mourns late beloved nurse

Medical Center Hospital in Odessa is mourning the loss of one of its dedicated nurses. Haylie Hicks, a labor and delivery nurse, passed away at the age of 26, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and care. Hicks had been a part of the hospital since 2019, starting as an intern and later becoming a staff RN in Labor & Delivery.




Landgraf helps Permian High students achieve recognition for 'MOJO' rallying cry

State Representative Brooks Landgraf (R-Odessa) expressed pride in helping two Permian High School students bring recognition to the "MOJO" rallying cry on the occasion of the 56th anniversary it was first uttered. Landgraf said that before the 2023-2024 academic year began, two members of the Permian student senate, Molly Izaguirre and Jase Contreras, reached out to him about getting "MOJO" its own day from the state of Texas.


Lawsuit against the City of Midland, Midland County, District Attorney, and MPD Detective is being filed by four people from Trinity School of Midland

The “Trinity Four” are Shelby Hammer, Adrianne Clifton, Todd Freese, and Chrystal Myers. The lawsuit addresses alleged violations of the U. S. Constitution and U. S. laws.



“Texas Size Garage Sale” starts in Midland

The Texas Size Garage Sale is underway in Midland, providing an opportunity for the community to come together and support a worthy cause. This annual event raises funds for Meals on Wheels, with every $8 spent funding a meal for someone in need.


Odessa mayor condemns violence in Israel

Odessa Mayor Javier Joven has taken a strong stance against the recent violence in Israel, condemning the Palestinian militant group Hamas for their sneak attack on the country. The attack, which occurred earlier this month, claimed the lives of over 1,000 people. In response, Mayor Joven issued an executive order and the Odessa City Council affirmed their opposition to terrorism and acts of antisemitism.


Mayor Lori Blong: ‘I believe this is the place I’m called to be’

Midland Mayor Lori Blong expressed her connection to and appreciation for Midland in an interview with Basin PBS. Mayor Blong and City Manager Tommy Gonzalez also spoke to interview host Becky Ferguson about current events and issues in the city.