Midland Times

News from February 2024


Local business brings snacks for officers

The Odessa Police Department expressed their gratitude towards Diamond Shine, a local business, for providing snacks on Valentine's Day. In a statement, the department thanked the company for their generosity and for showing support to law enforcement.The act of kindness from Diamond Shine did not go unnoticed by the police department, as they took the opportunity to acknowledge and appreciate the gesture. The snacks provided by the local business were a welcome surprise for the officers on duty, especially on a day dedicated to love and appreciation.In a statement, the...


Senate Republicans Call for DOJ Investigation Into UN Fundraising Group for Hamas Support

A group of Senate Republicans, led by Sen. Ted Cruz, is urging the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to open a criminal investigation into UNRWA USA, a U.S.-based non-profit that raises funds for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), for providing material support for terrorism. The lawmakers are calling on Attorney General Merrick Garland to take action against UNRWA USA and its leadership for knowingly aiding foreign terrorist organizations, including Hamas. The Republicans claim that UNRWA has provided Hamas and other terrorist groups with personnel,...


West Texas Food Bank delivers 550 Food2Kid bags to Bunche Elementary

The West Texas Food Bank recently delivered 550 Food2Kid bags to Bunche Elementary. The Food2Kids program, an initiative by the food bank, aims to provide nutritious meals to students who may lack access to such meals over the weekends.


Forrest Allen awarded with Scott Seator Community Achievement Award

On Feb. 7, Midland College witnessed Athletic Director Forrest Allen being honored with the prestigious Scott Seator Community Achievement Award at the West Texas Sports Banquet & Memorabilia Banquet.


Clay shoot fundraiser for veterans hosted by Permian Warrior Partnership and Battle Dawgs

An event unfolded in Stanton on Friday, Feb. 9, as the Permian Warrior Partnership (PWP) and Battle Dawgs joined forces to host the inaugural sporting clay shoot fundraiser, featuring a clay pigeon shootout, a live auction, and the esteemed presence of Medal of Honor Recipient Earl Plumlee and his 1st Group Special Forces team.


Diamondback Energy and Endeavor Energy Resources unite to form premier Permian independent oil and gas company

Diamondback Energy Inc. and Endeavor Energy Resources L.P. announced the signing of a definitive merger agreement, marking a move to create a premier Permian independent oil and gas company.


Zoo Midland: A Thriving Community Project Takes Shape

A transformative project is gaining momentum as Zoo Midland shapes its vision to become a community learning experience. Jeff Beard, the president of the Zoo Midland board, shared insights into the origins and future aspirations of this exciting venture with Midland Times.


Midland ISD's Education and Training Program paves the way for future educators

Midland Independent School District (MISD) is shaping the future of education as it continues to expand its Education and Training program. This initiative is proving instrumental in equipping high school students from Midland High, Legacy High, and Coleman High with the essential skills and certifications needed for a successful career in teaching.


UTPB math faculty member Wendy Padilla: 'I love mathematics and teaching'

Wendy Padilla, a math faculty member at the University of Texas Permian Basin (UTPB), has been making impact on UTPB students' learning experiences for the past 14 years. Wendy's passion for teaching and her love for mathematics shine through in her dynamic approach to education.


West Texas Speech Pathologist: ‘I get a lot of referrals from the Lubbock trauma centers’

Speech therapist Tanya Lujan explains there is a nationwide need for speech services, and the wide range of client ages that might require speech services.


Odessa 4x400 meter relay team wins gold at Tall City Relays

Odessa competed in the Rogers Ford Tall City Relays last week for their first track and field meet of the season, with the boys’ team placing sixth with 61 points led by a first place finish for the 4x400 meter relay team.


Sen. Cruz Votes Against Funding Bill That Fails to Secure the Texas-Mexico Border

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In a recent vote, U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) expressed his strong opposition to the Senate funding legislation, citing its failure to address the issue of border security along the Texas-Mexico border. Sen. Cruz emphasized the need for substantial additions to bolster border security."I cannot in good conscience support this bill without real, substantial additions to bolster border security," stated Sen. Cruz. He further highlighted the importance of supporting allies such as Israel, Taiwan, and Ukraine, but emphasized the need to prioritize the...


Pfluger Votes to Impeach DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas

U.S. Representative August Pfluger (TX-11) has expressed his support for the impeachment of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. The decision to impeach Secretary Mayorkas comes after a comprehensive investigation carried out by the House Homeland Security Committee into the implications of the crisis at the southern border.According to Rep. August Pfluger, Secretary Mayorkas deserved to be impeached due to the concerning statistics surrounding illegal immigration under his watch. Pfluger stated, "9 million illegal aliens have entered our country...


Cornyn on Senate Passage of National Security Supplemental

U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) expressed his disappointment after the Senate passed the national security supplemental funding legislation. In a statement, he highlighted his concerns about border security and the need for a President who will enforce all laws to secure the border. Cornyn said, "I am disappointed that the national security supplemental appropriation failed to achieve a secure border, but in the end, if President Biden won’t enforce current laws, I have no confidence he will enforce any new ones. We need to elect a President who will enforce all our laws in...


Adoptable Pet of the Week: Meet Kristi and Kit from Midland Humane Coalition

In this edition of "Adoptable Pet of the Week," introduced are two companions waiting for their “fur-ever” homes at the Midland Humane Coalition, Kristi and Kit.


Midland native Leslie Liedtke Griffin appointed Executive VP at Consumer Energy Alliance

Leslie Liedtke Griffin, a native to Midland, has been named Executive Vice President of Affiliate Member Relations and Foundation Coordination for Consumer Energy Alliance (CEA), the preeminent advocate for sensible energy and environmental policies.


Cornyn, Colleagues' Bill to Help Prevent Child Abuse Passes Senate

WASHINGTON – The Senate has passed a bill aimed at preventing child abuse and providing education and training to those who work with children. The Jenna Quinn Law, named after child abuse survivor Jenna Quinn, allows current grant funds to be used for training and educating students, teachers, caregivers, and other adults on how to prevent, recognize, and report child sexual abuse.Senator John Cornyn, one of the sponsors of the bill, emphasized the importance of training those who work with children to identify and prevent child sexual abuse. He said, "This legislation,...


Midland MSA among U.S. leaders in employment gains

Midland, Texas continues to shine in terms of employment growth, according to the latest report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). In December, Midland experienced a remarkable over-the-year percentage gain in employment of 3.6%, placing it among the top 20 in the nation.The BLS report highlighted Midland's impressive performance, stating that the number of employees in the Midland Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) increased from 118,300 in December 2022 to 122,600 in December 2023. This growth not only outpaced the state average of 2.9% but also solidified...


Governor Abbott Appoints Killinger To Texas Economic Development Corporation Board Of Directors

Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Elizabeth Killinger to the Texas Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors. The Corporation, which is part of a public-private partnership with the Governor's Office of Economic Development & Tourism, is responsible for promoting Texas as the best state for business.Elizabeth Killinger, a sixth-generation Texan, currently serves as the executive vice president of NRG and is the president of NRG Home and Reliant Energy. She also sits on the board of directors for Helmerich & Payne. Killinger is actively involved in the community...


On Behalf of Texas Ag, Sen. Cruz Secures Extension of Drought Warning Sensors

Texas farmers and ranchers can breathe a sigh of relief as the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has decided to delay the retirement of soil moisture sensors in the state. This decision comes after an inquiry from U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Ranking Member Sen. Ted Cruz, who expressed concerns about the initial decision and upcoming plans to retire the sensors.In November 2023, NOAA announced its intention to retire 113 sensors across the country, citing a funding shortfall. However, Sen. Cruz, known for his advocacy for the agricultural community,...