Midland Times

News from April 2024


Midland College aligns itself with the leading higher education reform network in US

Midland College has announced its partnership with Achieving the Dream (ATD), a prominent higher education reform network comprising over 300 community colleges nationwide. The college will participate in ATD's Foundations of Transformation core engagement, an intensive three-year program. Midland College is one of eight institutions joining the organization as part of its 2024 cohort.


Fix West Texas reports vaccinating 210 animals

Fix West Texas reported this weekend that 210 animals were vaccinated and chipped during a drive-thru vaccine clinic on April 14. The clinic allowed animals to receive vaccines for parvo and distemper as well as microchips.


Midland College honors individuals during 'Pack the Park' softball event

Midland College is set to host a special event during their softball game against Western Texas College on April 19. The Lady Chaps aim not only for victory but also to honor individuals significant to the team. The match will take place at MC Lady Chaps Field, starting at 12:30 p.m.


Cornyn Applauds $6.4B CHIPS Funding Announcement for Samsung in Texas

April 15, 2024DALLAS – U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) expressed his approval following the announcement of a significant funding agreement for Samsung Electronics Co. in Texas. The U.S. Department of Commerce and Samsung have agreed to provide up to $6.4 billion in direct funding under the CHIPS and Science Act, a move aimed at revitalizing semiconductor manufacturing in the United States."By investing in leading-edge semiconductor manufacturing, we are helping secure this vulnerable supply chain, boosting our national security and global competitiveness, and creating...


Local Government Meetings today in Midland County

Midland County Local Government Meetings today.


Renowned Psychic Medium Matt Fraser to Grace WNPAC with Live Event

Renowned psychic medium Matt Fraser, known as America’s Top Psychic Medium and star of the hit television series on E! Entertainment, is set to bring his unique talents to the WNPAC. Fraser's live events, television appearances, and spiritual teachings have garnered a global following, offering healing, hope, and laughter to fans worldwide.Known for his outrageous personality and distinctive approach to mediumship, Fraser's performances range from heartfelt emotional readings to stunning revelations, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats.In line with event...


Sen. Cruz Applauds Major Investment in Texas Semiconductor Industry

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) has expressed his support and admiration towards Samsung for securing significant federal funding for their semiconductor manufacturing facilities in Taylor and Austin, Texas. The investment, totaling up to $6.4 billion, is expected to generate over 20,000 jobs in the region.In a statement, Sen. Cruz emphasized the importance of the investment for national security goals and reducing America's reliance on foreign semiconductors. He highlighted the necessity of passing bipartisan permitting reform legislation to ensure projects like Samsung's...


Midland restaurant owner: ‘We just sold pulled pork sandwiches out of the car’

Alejandro Barrientos, a Midland restaurant owner, said he began his culinary journey while still working, initially experimenting with barbecue, which eventually led him to catering events for friends and colleagues before venturing into the restaurant business. Barrientos was a guest on a recent episode of the Best of Midland Podcast.


Government events this week in Midland County: April 14-20

The following events are scheduled to take place in Midland County this week.


Midland will reimburse the Airport Fund by $2 million for rent but get back $7.5 million

The Midland City Council has decided to reimburse the Airport Fund with $2 million for up to six years of rent from its Utilities and Parks Departments. However, the city will also receive a reimbursement of $7.5 million for subsidies provided to the fund over the past five years.


Midland awards bid for canopy at the Southeast Senior Center

The city of Midland is set to install a canopy at the Southeast Senior Center, creating an outdoor space that has been identified as a high priority by the center's patrons in Washington Park.


Midland City Council awarded a $3.7 million contract for a Highway 158 & Sinclair Avenue intersection project

The Midland City Council has given the green light to a $3.7 million contract for drainage and intersection improvements at State Highway 158 and Sinclair Avenue. With a contingency of $738,342 and an additional $50,000 in project-related items, the total cost of the project amounts to $4.5 million.


Midland awards $855,690 bid to city firm for concrete

The Midland City Council has given the green light to an $855,690 contract with Jordan Concrete of Midland. The agreement involves the provision of concrete and caliche for the city's transportation division.


Midland awardeds $622,177 traffic signal work bid to Willis Electric Co. of Abilene

The Midland City Council has granted a contract to Willis Electric Co., based in Abilene, Texas. The deal, worth $622,177, is for a two-intersection traffic signal project.


Wagner Noël PAC to host laser light show dedicated to Taylor Swift

Following the tremendous success of Taylor Swift's Eras Tour, the Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center is set to host DJ Tiff for a one-night-only event, "Taylor Shines – The Laser Spectacular," on June 21 at 6:30 p.m. The Center invites all Swift fans in the Permian Basin to seize this unique opportunity.


Religious service this week in Midland County: April 14-20

The following religious meeting is scheduled to happen in Midland County this week.


Entertainment events this week in Midland County: April 14-20

Don't miss out on these entertainment events happening in Midland County this week.


Midland police honor retired lieutenant Sean Sharp

The Midland Police Department (MPD) recently bid adieu to Lt. Sean Sharp, marking the end of his illustrious 20-year career on April 5. The Permian Basin law enforcement agency acknowledged that Sharp's dedicated service had left a significant imprint on the department and the community he was entrusted to safeguard.


Family & kids events this week in Midland County: April 14-20

Don't miss out on these family & kids events happening in Midland County this week.


Operation Lone Star making progress against illegal border problems

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the Texas National Guard have been cracking down on criminal activities related to the border crisis. The law enforcement agencies have been working together under Operation Lone Star, a program that began under Governor Greg Abbott in March 2021.