Midland Times

News from July 2024


Congressman Pfluger criticizes Biden Administration's handling of southern border security

Today, Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) addressed the U.S. House of Representatives in support of H. Res. 1371, a resolution introduced by Rep. Elise Stefanik condemning the Biden Administration and Border Czar Kamala Harris for failing to secure the U.S. southern border.


Basin CrossFit: Building a healthier community through fitness and fellowship

In 2011, fitness enthusiast and jiu-jitsu athlete Jarret Jones opened the doors to Basin CrossFit with a clear vision: to create a community-centered fitness space where like-minded individuals could come together to improve their health.


Midland City Council votes to begin issuing pension obligation bond

At the Midland City Council meeting on July 23, the council voted unanimously to begin the process of issuing a pension obligation bond to address the unfunded pension liability of the Midland Firemen’s Relief and Retirement Fund. The bond, which also includes benefit changes affecting Midland Firefighters, aims to stabilize the fund’s finances and ensure its long-term viability while maintaining a competitive benefits package for recruitment and retention.


Adoptable Pet of the Week: Meet Daisy and Jojo 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, Daisy and Jojo.


Midland Professional Firefighters Association ‘disappointed’ with City Council's discussion on firefighter’s compensation

Midland’s Professional Firefighters Association voiced dissatisfaction with the City Council’s meeting on July 23. Jesse Martinez, President of the Professional Firefighters Association of Midland (PFAM), praised the council for taking steps to secure pension benefits but was disappointed over the limited discussion of overall firefighter compensation.


MISD says: ‘Shout out to our maintenance crews for repairing a broken sewer line at Parker Elementary’

Midland Independent School District (MISD) expressed gratitude to its maintenance crew for repairing a broken sewer line at Parker Elementary, according to a Facebook post. The measure ensures that there should be no issues on campus when teachers return next week to prepare for the upcoming school year.


MCSO captures inmate following alleged escape attempt

The Midland County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) thwarted an inmate’s escape attempt from the Central Detention Center on July 22. Adolfo Williams was identified as the suspected escapee.


Wagner Noël PAC announces cancellation of upcoming show

The Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center announced a mass refund following the cancellation of the Los Dos Carnales concert, which was originally scheduled for August 2.


MPD Honor Guard participates in funeral for fallen Harris County Deputy Esqueda

The Midland Police Department (MPD) Honor Guard participated in the funeral for fallen Harris County Deputy Fernando Esqueda on July 19. Esqueda, who was 28 years old, was killed in the line of duty in the early morning hours on July 11 while investigating the residence of an assault suspect.


Odessa Police Department supports Special Olympics with Tip-a-Cop event

The Odessa Police Department (OPD) is set to participate in the Law Enforcement Torch Run "Tip-a-Cop" event on Thursday, July 25th.


Tomorrow's schedule for memorial or funeral services in Midland County

The following funeral or memorial service is scheduled to happen in Midland County tomorrow.


Kent Kwik to build new convenience store in Midland

A major convenience store chain with a strong presence in West Texas and Eastern New Mexico will begin construction on a new store in August.



Celebrating Woody Harrelson's birthday: acknowledging the contributions of the Actor (July 23)

Woodrow Tracy Harrelson entered the world on July 23, 1961, in Midland, Texas.



Pickleball courts coming to Summit Center

A building in a newly opened retail center will undergo renovations for a popular indoor sport within one of its buildings, according to a filing with a state regulatory agency.


Nancy Francelle Pierson, devoted Midland resident, passes away at 84

Nancy Francelle Pierson passed away on July 21. Below is the obituary.


William Roy Barrow, 68, Dies at Medical Center Hospital

William Roy Barrow passed away on July 21. Below is the obituary.


Fire at Permian Basin Containers prompts evacuations in Odessa

We have received updates on the large fire that Odessa Fire Rescue is currently addressing.


Permian Basin International Oil Show donates $80K to Midland College's energy programs

Midland College has announced an $80,000 donation from the Permian Basin International Oil Show (PBIOS) to support its energy education programs.