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PERMIAN BASIN, Texas (NEXSTAR) — The price for a barrel of oil fell below $100 for the first time since the beginning of March.
Some may agree that oil prices are still on the high side.
How long will these high energy prices last?
A report from the U.S. Department of Energy could provide a snapshot of the price of energy.
It’s called the Short-Term Energy Outlook.
The document is generated with analysis from market conditions.
The data are used to make forecasts in energy supply, prices, and consumption.
At least for the short-term, prices for gas and oil will remain high.
Much of the numbers in the report depend on the situation between Russia and Ukraine.
Click here to read the report in full. | 2022-03-17T00:38:09Z | www.yourbasin.com | Government report predicts fuel, energy costs | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/government-report-predicts-short-term-fuel-energy-costs/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/government-report-predicts-short-term-fuel-energy-costs/ |
ANDREWS COUNTY, Texas (Nexstar) – The National Transportation Safety Board and the Texas Department of Public Safety are among the agencies currently investigating the crash in Andrews that DPS said left nine people dead and sent two others to the hospital.
The NTSB sent a team of roughly 12 investigators to Andrews to begin work on determining the exact details of this crash but Eric Weiss, Chief of Media Relations for NTSB, explained that the length of the investigation could be extensive.
“The entire investigation could take anywhere from 18 to 24 months to complete. We’re not only looking at what happened, but why it happened and ways to prevent it from happening in the future.”
When the NTSB team arrives to the area they will be taking into consideration what they believe was a post crash fire, the speed these vehicles could have possibly been traveling at as well as occupant protection and vehicle factors.
NTSB also plans to work closely with local investigators and the Texas Department of Public Safety to bring more answers to loved ones and concerned locals. | 2022-03-17T00:38:22Z | www.yourbasin.com | NTSB on crash investigation | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/ntsb-on-crash-investigation/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/ntsb-on-crash-investigation/ |
ANDREWS COUNTY, Texas (Nexstar)- Newly released scanner audio is shedding light on the immediate aftermath of a fiery crash that left nine people dead. The accident prompted frantic rescue efforts just moments after impact.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, a van owned by the University of the Southwest, out of Hobbs, New Mexico, was carrying students and a coach home from a golf tournament at Midland College. The van was hit head on by a Dodge truck that, for unknown reasons, veered into the wrong lane.
The vehicles caught fire shortly after impact. Head Coach Tyler James and six students were killed in the crash. Two surviving students were taken to Lubbock hospitals in critical condition. Additionally, two people inside the Dodge were also killed. You can read more about those victims here.
Here is part of the audio released to ABC News-
Police Officer: “All units, I got wrecked vehicles on both sides of the highway. Fully engulfed vehicles.”
Dispatch: “…attempted to get the person trapped in the van out. Nobody close to the van at this time. It is too hot.”
Police Officer: “We are going to need two helicopters please.”
Now the National Transportation Safety Board said it is sending a team to Andrews to work alongside DPS to investigate the events that led to the crash. An NTSB spokesperson said the investigation could take anywhere from 18 to 24 months.
“It’s not only looking at what happened, but why it happened, and ways to prevent it from happening in the future,” said NTSB’s Chief of Media Relations Eric Weiss. | 2022-03-17T00:38:28Z | www.yourbasin.com | Scanner audio released following fiery crash that left 9 dead | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/scanner-audio-released-following-fiery-crash-that-left-9-dead/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/scanner-audio-released-following-fiery-crash-that-left-9-dead/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- An Odessa man was arrested after police said he assaulted his girlfriend. Pedro Marquez, 37, was charged with Assault by Strangulation, Family Violence, a third-degree felony.
According to an affidavit, on March 13, police responded to a home on Brittany Lane after a woman called 911. When officers arrived at the scene, they knocked on the door; that knock wasn’t immediately answered. Dispatch told officers when the woman called 911, she stated she couldn’t breathe, so officers decided to force entry into the home.
Investigators stated in the affidavit that once inside the home, they made contact with Marquez, who was described as “belligerent and uncooperative”. According to the affidavit, once inside the home, officers could see the victim behind Marquez; she was “visibly upset and crying”. Once detained, officers were able to speak with the 27-year-old victim who told them she had been dating Marquez for about a year and a half. She said they got into an argument over Marquez’s drinking and that the argument turned physical.
The victim said Marquez punched her in the back of the head using a closed fist. That is when the victim called 911; and according to the affidavit, that is when Marquez began choking her. She also police that while officers were knocking on the door, Marquez got on top of her and began to apply pressure to her neck using both of his hands.
Marquez was then booked into the Ector County Law Enforcement Center. He was released from custody on March 14 on a $25,000 bond. | 2022-03-17T17:20:17Z | www.yourbasin.com | Odessa man arrested for punching, choking girlfriend | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-arrested-for-punching-choking-girlfriend/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-arrested-for-punching-choking-girlfriend/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar)- Today a federal judge ordered Martin Renteria, 52, of Midland, to spend the rest of his life behind bars without the possibility of parole for child exploitation offenses involving an 11-year-old, including sex trafficking, production and possession of child pornography, and committing a felony involving a minor while registered as a sex offender. Renteria was convicted of these crimes by a jury on Nov. 10, 2021.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Renteria, enticed an 11-year-old into engaging in sexual acts on multiple occasions. He purchased expensive gifts for the child in exchange for the sexual acts. On at least one occasion, he also recorded a video of one of the sexual acts. The United States Department of Justice said in a release Renteria had committed similar crimes in the past and was previously required to register as a sex offender for life. | 2022-03-17T17:20:23Z | www.yourbasin.com | Serial child sex offender sentenced to life in prison | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/serial-child-sex-offender-sentenced-to-life-in-prison/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/serial-child-sex-offender-sentenced-to-life-in-prison/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- In a news conference Thursday, the National Transportation Safety Board said a 13-year-old boy was behind the wheel of the Dodge truck that hit the 17-passanger van carrying members of the University of the Southwest golf team home from a tournament. Nine people died in that crash– six USW students, the head coach, and the two people inside the Dodge. Two other students were taken to Lubbock hospitals in critical condition.
Landsberg said it’s time for all drivers to take their responsibilities behind the wheel more seriously.
“The carnage on our highways exceeds any other mode of transportation. In no other mode would we tolerate 100 plus fatalities each and every day…we think it’s time to take our driving more seriously,” he said. | 2022-03-17T21:34:30Z | www.yourbasin.com | 13-year-old behind wheel in crash that killed 9 | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/13-year-old-behind-wheel-in-crash-that-killed-9/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/13-year-old-behind-wheel-in-crash-that-killed-9/ |
Editor’s Note: At the time of this news conference, there were many unanswered questions surrounding the crash. We have since learned that a 13-year-old was behind the wheel of the truck that hit the school van. You can read more about that here.
For those wishing to help, the school has set up a donation page. You can find that here. | 2022-03-17T21:34:36Z | www.yourbasin.com | USW speaks on deadly crash, ‘We many never know what caused this’ | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/usw-speaks-on-deadly-crash-we-many-never-know-what-caused-this/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/usw-speaks-on-deadly-crash-we-many-never-know-what-caused-this/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar)- Midland Crime Stoppers is asking for help from the community to locate a wanted man. 28-year-old Rudolfo Vasquez has been indicted by a Grand Jury on a Sexual Assault of a Child charge. Now, law enforcement is hoping to find him and take him into custody.
If you know where Vasquez can be found, you are encouraged to call 432-694-TIPS. If your tip leads to an arrest, it could be worth a $500 reward. As always, your tip will remain anonymous. | 2022-03-17T23:32:00Z | www.yourbasin.com | Crime Stoppers searching for wanted fugitive | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/crime-stoppers-searching-for-wanted-fugitive/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/crime-stoppers-searching-for-wanted-fugitive/ |
by: Cameron Stuart, Cameron Stuart
MIDLAND, Texas: Midland Christian’s All-State quarterback Ryver Rodriguez signed his national letter of intent to play football at The University of Texas-Permian Basin Thursday.
Rodriguez rushed for over 1,600 yards from the quarterback position in 2021 and compiled 51 total touchdowns. He says he has had a relationship with the UTPB coaching staff for years.
“Ever since I was a sophomore, they have been coming and watching our practices. I’ve always had a great relationship with the coaches and I went to their camps and stuff like that,” Rodriguez said. “That coaching staff, what you see is what you get with them and that’s something they really emphasized to me, they are ready to go out and work hard every single day.”
In return, the coaching staff is as impressed with Rodriguez for the person he is off the field than the football player he is on the field.
“He’s a leader, winner, tremendous student in the classroom, everything about him screams success,” UTPB head football coach Justin Carrigan said. “When you are successful off the field and successful in different roles not just quarterback but as a leader of a team and captain, that will generally also lead you to success on the field as well.” | 2022-03-18T04:59:05Z | www.yourbasin.com | Midland Christian’s Rodriguez signs to play at UTPB | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/sports/midland-christians-rodriguez-signs-to-play-at-utpb/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/sports/midland-christians-rodriguez-signs-to-play-at-utpb/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar) – According to a recent news release, the Midland Memorial Hospital will experience a water shutdown on Saturday, March 19th from 10 am to 2 pm. The shutdown will help complete the Michigan Avenue project.
During the water shutdown, the 7th, 8th, and 9th floors will experience the most impact. The hospital states that there are plans in place for patients, staff, and visitors to have access to temporary water. Once the water is turned back on, there may be some discoloration until pipes have been completely flushed out.
According to the news release, the Michigan Avenue project is expected to be complete and the intersection open back up by Thursday, March 24th. People can still have access to the main property by entering/exiting from Kent street near the emergency room. Alternate routes to enter the property will be North N street and West Tennessee Ave. | 2022-03-18T17:41:10Z | www.yourbasin.com | MMH prepares for water interruption as part of ongoing project | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/mmh-prepares-for-water-interruption-as-part-of-ongoing-project/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/mmh-prepares-for-water-interruption-as-part-of-ongoing-project/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar)- Earlier this week, the Midland Police Department arrested a man accused of assaulting, stalking, and kidnapping his estranged wife. Uriel Hernandez Rodriguez has been charged with Aggravated Kidnapping, Continuous Violence Against the Family, and Stalking.
On March 15, an officer with MPD responded to the Midland Park Mall to investigate a disturbance. At the mall, the officer found the victim who said she was being stalked and harassed by her husband, from whom she had recently separated. The victim told the officer about numerous instances of assault and stalking since the beginning of March, according to an arrest affidavit.
The victim said on March 5, she went to La Cantina and that Rodriguez showed up. She said he took her keys and her phone and pulled her by her hair before ordering her to get into her vehicle. The victim said she complied because she was afraid he would hit her if she didn’t.
She said Rodriguez then drove around Midland for several hours at a high rate of speed; Rodriguez had been drinking before he got behind the wheel, the victim said she could smell the alcohol. She also said occasionally Rodriguez would slam on the brakes, causing her to hit the dashboard. According to the affidavit, eventually, Rodriguez drove them back to their apartment in Odessa.
The following Monday, while at work, the victim said she called Rodriguez and told him he needed to leave their apartment. When he refused, she said she moved into her mother’s home, also in Odessa. She told the officer while at her mom’s Rodriguez showed up multiple times trying to talk to her. She then decided to move into her cousin’s home to try and get away from him.
Then, on March 15, while sitting in her vehicle in the mall parking lot, she said she got a call from Rodriguez. She said he asked her where she was and that she asked him in return why he needed to know. Rodriguez responded that he was right behind her.
According to the affidavit, Rodriguez cut the victim off in the parking lot, then got out of his vehicle and approached the driver’s side window of the victims car. He then began hitting the window, saying she needed to roll the window down so they could talk. The victim said she first refused, but eventually rolled down the window. At that point, Rodriguez reached in the window and grabbed her phone, injuring the victim’s thumb in the process.
The victim then told the officer she went up to someone in the mall and asked them to call 911. After the call was made, the victim said she returned to her car to wait. She said she saw Rodriguez circle the parking lot before pulling up along side her car once more. He told her to come get her phone, he also told her, “You’re going to find out”, a threat he had used against her before.
The victim told the officer she didn’t feel safe returning to her cousin’s apartment because she was worried Rodriguez would be waiting for her and would hurt her.
The officer then requested an emergency protective order on the victim’s behalf. Rodriguez was arrested on March 16, he has since been released from jail. | 2022-03-18T17:41:16Z | www.yourbasin.com | MPD arrests man accused of kidnapping, stalking, assault | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/mpd-arrests-man-accused-of-kidnapping-stalking-assault/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/mpd-arrests-man-accused-of-kidnapping-stalking-assault/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar)- The Midland Police Department is asking for help from the community to identify three people accused of vandalizing a church.
According to a Facebook post, the three people pictured below, described as “young males” by police, were caught on security camera after they entered Holy Trinity Episcopal Church on W Illinois Ave. Once inside the church, the trio caused significant damage, police said.
Anyone with information is asked to call Midland Crime Stoppers at 432-694-TIPS and reference case number 220216016. If your anonymous tip leads to an arrest, it could be worth a $1000 reward. | 2022-03-18T20:34:35Z | www.yourbasin.com | Church vandalized, MPD searching for suspects | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/church-vandalized-mpd-searching-for-suspects/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/church-vandalized-mpd-searching-for-suspects/ |
Odessa, Texas (Nexstar) – There is no shortage of women in our area who do remarkable things every day. We’re shining a light on women who go above and beyond for our community.
Suzanne Rathbun is one of our 2022 Remarkable Women finalists. She hopes her story will motivate other women to be involved in their community while also fulfilling their dreams.
Inside the Department of Psychology at the University of the Permian Basin, there’s an educator who practices daily what it takes to go above and beyond not only for her students, but an entire community.
Many would describe Clinical Associate Academic Advisor Suzanne Rathbun as beyond remarkable.
“I’m so involved and I like it, and it changes, now I am doing academic advising and committees … data analysis,” said Rathbun. “It’s different and it’s great to see the students.”
You can find Rathbun either helping her students and family, volunteering or taking phone calls. Originally, from Kansas, Rathbun made her way to the Permian Basin more than 30 years ago after her husband took a teaching job.
“So, I started my master’s in clinical psychology and finished and they never let me leave,” said Rathbun.
She has been teaching at UTPB for more than 20 years and also helps run the clinic for students that are taking their practicum.
“Never [I] thought I would be a teacher … [I] taught classes [and] started this clinic for our master students mainly because during our practicum we needed some place to do it,” she said. “Because you can’t do it at your job, so that’s how this clinic has come about and we service the Permian Basin.”
What she enjoys the most is running into her students long after they left the classroom and have children of their own.
“I’ve had mothers and they brought their kids to class,” shared Rathbun.
And some of those kids ended up being one of her students as well.
“Well, the most recent one was Lynn-White Geisler who is the head of Casa and her daughter Kelby,” said Rathbun. “I seen her since she was little.”
Geisler is currently Executive Director of Casa of the Permian Basin. She tells ABC Big 2 that one of the fondest memories she has of Rathbun is when she combed her daughter’s hair for a dance one night while she was working on her practicum.
“I’m not a hair person, so Suzanne did Kelby’s hair and then another funny thing is that my daughter went back and got her degree,” said Geisler. “[She] got her bachelor’s in psychology and had Suzanne [as a teacher] too.”
Aside from being fully involved in the Department of Psychology, Geisler said there’s not an organization that Rathbun has not been a part of.
“Over the years, she has been constant and she still is… I don’t know how she has so much energy,” said Geisler.
Besides teaching classes, Rathbun has volunteered as an usher for the Wagner Noel Theater, served as a Casa Board Member, [involved in] Boy Scouts of America, Parent Teacher Association, member of ASD 480 Board of Education, Rotary Club of Odessa and the list continues.
“You just do it… it’s not only part of my job but it’s also part of maybe who I am – I’ll just take people in if they need some place to stay,” said Rathbun. “I guess it’s me, it was in my mother and maybe it’s just part of my family.”
Rathbun said she hopes other women who watch her story will be encouraged to volunteer and be part of the their community as well.
“I’m not someone who gets out and talks about myself, I just do,” she said.
She said being a part of different boards have all been rewarding and despite the time commitments… she would do it all over again.
She’s really an inspiration. | 2022-03-18T20:34:53Z | www.yourbasin.com | Remarkable Women: Meet Suzanne Rathbun | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/local-news/remarkable-women-meet-suzanne-rathbun/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/local-news/remarkable-women-meet-suzanne-rathbun/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar) – From having a Tik-Tok room to panels with celebrity guests, the Permian Basin Comic-Con has a little bit of everything for all ages to enjoy. We spoke to exhibit coordinator, Shalom Agabala who shared with us how this event has been a staple in the community for several years.
“This is an event for everybody an event for families we’ll have face painting here, they’ll be comic book vendors so you can buy those specialty comics that you can’t maybe find anywhere else and then also some of those rare toys that you can’t find anywhere else, and I mean it’s gonna be here,” says Agabala
Once held at the Bush Convention Center, the Comic-Con had to pivot when organizers heard of the water line break at the convention center.
“Of course, I’m sure everyone’s aware of the challenges that happened over there so we had to pivot and immediately move over here to the Horseshoe and they were very accommodating and welcoming for us to come,” says Agabala
Agabala says that the change of location didn’t stop his team from planning and that Midland County Horseshoe Arena was the perfect venue to fit all 181 vendors and attendees for one of the largest comic cons in the Permian Basin.
“We try to engage the community and have more than just the average spot to shop for comics, we’re more than that,” says Agabala
At the Permian Basin Comic-Con, expect to see people dressed up in cosplay as some of their favorite anime characters like Sailor Moon and Naruto. Agabala says that besides the fun costumes and celebrity guests, his favorite part about comic-con is meeting people from across the state and finding things in common with one another.
“Anybody who wants to come is welcome here you’ll find your own niche, your own thing, your own place to fit in so that’s one of the things that this show has been really good about is including everyone in the community and we want to keep that going,” says Agabala.
The event is open to VIP guests on Friday and through Sunday. For general admission ticket holders, the fun kicks off Saturday and Sunday. VIP tickets are currently sold out but general admission tickets are still up for grabs. Tickets are available online and at the event. | 2022-03-18T20:35:05Z | www.yourbasin.com | Permian Basin Comic Con in Midland this weekend | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/permian-basin-comic-con-in-midland-this-weekend/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/permian-basin-comic-con-in-midland-this-weekend/ |
by: Maddy Bierster
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar)- Earlier this week, the Midland Police Department arrested a woman accused of drinking and driving and evading arrest. Enriqueta Cathy LaBombard, 52, has been charged with Driving While Intoxicated and Evading in a Motor Vehicle.
According to an arrest affidavit, shortly after 10:00 p.m. on March 15, an officer with MPD was dispatched to the intersection of W Scharbauer Drive and N Big Spring Street to investigate a crash. Dispatch told the responding officer that the person who called 911 reported seeing a suspect vehicle leave the VFW parking lot before crashing into a pole.
The caller said the driver in that vehicle stopped, exited the vehicle, then returned to the car and drove away at a high rate of speed. The caller said the driver was “stumbling around” and appeared to be intoxicated.
The officer then found the suspect vehicle, driven by LaBombard, in the 600 block of S Big Spring Street. According to the affidavit, the officer activated emergency lights and tried to pull LaBombard’s vehicle over. The officer wrote, “brake lights activated then continued to drive south.” The officer followed the suspect for several more blocks, according to the officer LaBombard “could not maintain a single lane while…at a slow speed.”
LaBombard eventually pulled over in the 1100 block of S Big Spring. The affidavit stated that the officer asked her several times to exit the vehicle, when she did finally exit, she was “very slow when reacting to commands”. The officer said LaBombard would sway back and forth and was unable to walk in a straight line.
LaBombard was handcuffed after refusing to listen to the officer’s commands, the affidavit stated. The officer said LaBombard smelled of alcohol and had bloodshot, glassy eyes, and slurred speech.
The officer then took LaBombard to the hospital since she had been in a crash just moments before; a Standardized Field Sobriety Test was not conducted.
At the hospital, LaBombard admitted, “I had a few seltzers”, but would not consent to a blood alcohol test. The officer then found that LaBombard had been convicted of drunk driving in 2016. At that point, the officer asked for a search warrant to complete the blood test.
LaBombard was later booked into the Midland County jail, she was later released on an unknown bond. | 2022-03-18T23:10:59Z | www.yourbasin.com | MPD arrests woman accused of DWI, evading arrest | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/mpd-arrests-woman-accused-of-dwi-evading-arrest/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/mpd-arrests-woman-accused-of-dwi-evading-arrest/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar) — A wildfire in Eastland County has fire departments from all across Texas deploying to help. As part of the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System(TIFMAS), the Midland Fire Department left for the trip on Friday afternoon, along with several other agencies to help contain the fires that spread across more than 45,000 acres in Eastland County.
MFD Assistant Chief, Michael Tully said this has been a prearranged partnership with the Texas Department of Emergency Management.
“We have an agreement, to, when we have staffing, send resources to large events, when the state requests,” said Tully.
Tully said this program has been running for quite some time now and has helped in several massive fire events, not just in Texas, but across the nation.
“Since 2008, we’ve responded to multiple incidents in the last 15-20 years. Hurricanes, fires, we’ve even responded out of state to California,” said Tully.
Tully also mentioned that the program allows for other fire departments to prepare for the event that other areas may need more assistance when it comes to dangerous conditions. Most of the time the departments are sent to the areas ahead of time to prepare.
“There are times when we know critical fire weather is coming that the state will put out requests to pre stage vehicles and we did, there were units pre-staged ahead of this event, but they’ve been there helping for the last day or so, since the event started,” added Tully.
Depending on the need for the fire department in their own county, Tully mentioned they may not be able to send reinforcements to others, but if the opportunity arises to help others, MFD is more than willing.
“Us sending resources out of the county, depends on our staffing needs and the weather in our area, if we think we’re gonna have an issue then we will hold onto them, obviously we didn’t have an issue and other parts of the state need help, so we’re more than willing to send them,” said Tully.
Tully said the units that arrived today, will be in the area for one to two weeks, just depending on the status of the fire. | 2022-03-19T03:43:50Z | www.yourbasin.com | Midland Fire Department helping in Eastland fires | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/midland-fire-department-helping-in-eastland-fires/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/midland-fire-department-helping-in-eastland-fires/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar) – A lot of changes are coming to downtown Odessa. The Executive Director for Downtown Odessa, Casey Hallmark tells us that the city is working with different partnerships and grants to give the downtown area a new and improved look.
Lifelong Odessan, Casey Hallmark came to the position of Executive Director for Downtown Odessa in January of 2022. Hallmark says that although she’s new to her role, nonetheless she is excited for what’s in store for the city she calls home.
“My goal is for downtown to be a destination where you come and spend the entire day going to the ice cream shop and going to the new gift shop and going to the restaurants um I think that’s really important,” says Hallmark.
Through a strategic plan titled “The Downtown Masterplan,” city planning managers are working alongside one another to map out how the city should execute the implementation of new business, improved sidewalks, and more.
“The city has set aside a large chunk of money for downtown specifically so we’re going to be looking at how we’re gonna reinvest that into sidewalks, lighting, making it more pedestrian-friendly and safe,” says Hallmark
Hallmark says the plan is to redo worn streets and improve utilities in the area and much more to improve the quality of life for Odessans and people who come to visit the area.
As for new businesses coming to town, Hallmark says that there are a few in the works or on the cusp of opening.
“We have several new businesses coming to downtown, several in construction right now like bars, restaurants, even a gift shop that’s coming downtown and the OC project is coming to downtown,” says Hallmark.
Slowly but surely, Hallmark says that changes to the area are to make downtown a family-friendly environment for people who live in the area and visitors to enjoy.
According to the City of Odessa, there’s been major progress in the expansion from 2016 to now the amount of businesses opened have increased to 42 downtown and as of today, more than $48 million dollars have been invested into projects like road improvements, street signs, and rehabilitation of older buildings. | 2022-03-21T20:00:42Z | www.yourbasin.com | Changes coming to downtown Odessa | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/changes-coming-to-downtown-odessa/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/changes-coming-to-downtown-odessa/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- An Odessa man is behind bars after police say he assaulted his fiancée. Anthony Jerome Conley, 32, has been charged with Aggravated Assault causing Serious Bodily Injury, according to an affidavit.
On March 12, officers with the Odessa Police Department were dispatched to a home in the 1200 block of Masquerade after someone called 911 to report an assault. When officers arrived at the scene, they made contact with Conley, and a woman, later identified as the victim. An affidavit stated that when officers knocked on the door, both people said everything was “ok”, but refused to step outside of the home and wouldn’t allow officers inside.
Officers then spoke with the person who called 911. That person said Conley called him earlier that day and said that he had beaten the victim up and that she needed to go to the hospital but was refusing to go. Officers again knocked on the door of Conley’s home, but no one answered.
Officers stayed on the scene and later saw a vehicle leave the home, at that point, officers pulled the vehicle over and finally made contact with the victim. According to the affidavit, officers said the victim had a bruised right eye that was swollen shut. The left side of the victim’s face was also bruised and she told officers her “whole body was in pain”. She told officers her fiancée, identified as Conley, hit her multiple times.
Conley was later taken into custody, as of Monday morning, he was still behind bars on a $20,000 bond. A mugshot for Conley was not immediately available. | 2022-03-21T20:01:12Z | www.yourbasin.com | Odessa man charged with assaulting fiancée | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-charged-with-assaulting-fiancee/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-charged-with-assaulting-fiancee/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- An Odessa man has been charged after police say he sexually assaulted a child in his home. Victor Garcia, has been charged with Aggravated Sexual Assault of a Child and Indecency with a Child, a first-degree and second-degree felony.
According to an arrest affidavit, on March 17, officers with the Odessa Police Department responded to a home on Spur Avenue after a woman called 911 to report an 11-year-old child in her home had been assaulted by a man identified at Garcia. The woman told police Garcia had been sleeping in her bedroom with the victim while she took care of other children in the home. The woman told police the victim described the assault and that once she found out about it, she kicked Garcia out of the home and that he was sleeping outside.
Police found Garcia outside the home. When questioned, Garcia admitted to the assault, saying it lasted about 10 minutes and that he had been feeling sexually excited when it happened.
Garcia was taken to the Ector County Law Enforcement Center where he remains behind bars on a $100,000 bond. According to jail records, Garcia is also on an Immigration and Customs Enforcement, or ICE hold. A mugshot for Garcia was not immediately available. | 2022-03-21T20:01:18Z | www.yourbasin.com | Odessa man charged with sexually assaulting child | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-charged-with-sexually-assaulting-child/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-charged-with-sexually-assaulting-child/ |
Odessa boy recovering from 7th surgery, community responds with outpouring of prayer
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- “When someone talks about Rowan…they always talk about how, no matter what, he’s always so happy and always so willing to smile,” said dad, Chris Golden.
That happy, smiling four-year-old, Rowan Golden is now home, recovering from his seventh surgery. While the many trips to and from Cook Children’s Hospital in Forth Worth haven’t been easy, the family is grateful their happy little boy has such an “amazing” team of caregivers.
“Cook is the most amazing place. I don’t have a single negative thing to say about the place. They’re there for the kids and the parents, they are highly protective of the children. There really is no place like it,” Chris said.
For the Golden family, Cook Children’s feels a little like home. The hospital offers healthcare that isn’t available in the Basin. And many of the doctors there have been a part of Rowan’s care team for years.
Rowan has something called VACTERL Association, a collection of birth differences, that when occur together, are considered an “association”. There is no known cause of VACTERL, it is a random occurrence and it is not genetic. Each letter of the name VACTERL stands for a different anomaly, and when a baby has at least three of the anomalies, that baby is considered to have VACTERL. Rowan has 5 out of the 7.
V – Vertebral anomalies
A – Anorectal malformations
C – Cardiovascular anomalies
T – Tracheoesophageal Fistula
E – Esophageal Atresia
R – Renal (Kidney) and/or Radial anomalies
L – Limb defects
Among other things, Rowan was born with a cleft lip and palate, cross-fused kidneys, and an esophagus that wasn’t connected to his stomach; he had his first surgery at only four-days-old to connect the two. A initial repair for the cleft lip and palate came later.
After Rowan’s post-operative appointment in Fort Worth
Most recently, on March 4th, Rowan had brain surgery to remove a cyst from behind his nose that was putting pressure on his brain, it is believed the cyst was contributing to constant headaches. Soon, little Rowan will need more surgeries including multiple esophagus dilations, eye surgery, bone graft surgery for his cleft, nose reconstruction surgery, and possibly more.
That means the back and forth travel to and from Fort Worth will continue for quite awhile. Dad Chris said he and his wife, Melanie, have an incredible support staff in place to help. While mom and dad and Rowen are attending appointments, family members in Odessa help with their baby. And in the beginning, that support staff even helped with the driving, as caring for a new-born Rowan left the parents without much time to sleep.
“In the beginning, we had to have someone drive us, neither of us were capable of making that drive,” Chris said.
While driving is rarely an issue for the family now, taking time off can still be difficult. Mom Melanie, a small business owner, can usually accommodate the time off, but it can be hard for Chris, who is a teacher at Ector County ISD.
“My wife may have to shut down her on-line store for a few days, and can travel as needed, but working for ECISD, I only have an allotted number of days,” Chris said. “I’ve hoarded them over the years. I’ve had principals help work things out, it’s been very much a blessing. But as a teacher, taking time off is difficult.”
Chris said even when traveling, he says in touch with his students online to make sure no one is falling behind.
Now that Rowan’s seventh surgery is behind him, the family is back at work, but dad said they are still spending a lot of time making sure Rowan stays safe and healthy.
“His recovery has been dramatically fast. But he’s still a four-year-old boy who absolutely, cannot hit his head. He wants to run and jump and play and we have to tell him over and over to calm down. But he’s doing great, the majority of the scary stuff that could happen ends two weeks post-op, we passed that mark on Friday,” Chris said.
One of the greatest risks Rowan faced after surgery was a cerebrospinal, or CSF leak. That concern, much to the relief of Rowan’s parents, has passed.
While their son continues to heal, Chris and Melanie remain grateful for the outpouring of prayers from people and churches from all over.
“That boy has had so many people, hundreds, if not thousands of people praying for him constantly,” Chris said.
The community has also stepped up to help ease the financial burden associated with the constant travel to and from Fort Worth. A gofundme page has raised more than $10,000 so far. And with the number of surgeries still on Rowan’s horizon, every penny counts. If you would like to help, you can find Rowan’s fundraiser here.
Courtesy: Golden Family. Rowan shortly after surgery, finally getting a bite to eat. | 2022-03-22T15:22:47Z | www.yourbasin.com | Odessa boy recovering from 7th surgery, community responds with outpouring of prayer | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-boy-recovering-from-7th-surgery-community-responds-with-outpouring-of-prayer/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-boy-recovering-from-7th-surgery-community-responds-with-outpouring-of-prayer/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- As grocery and gas bill continue to increase, Jesus House of Odessa is stepping up to help bridge the gap for those in need. The non-profit is on pace to hand out more than 18 and a half tons of groceries this year.
“If it’s anything like yesterday, it will be more than that,” said Executive Director Donny Kyker.
On Monday, the ministry handed out more than 900 pounds of food to those visiting the pantry.
Anyone needing to stock their pantry is invited to “shop” at Jesus House for the food they need. The pantry is open to the community from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. every Monday through Thursday. Many days, the team even has perishable items on hand, such as bread, milk, eggs, and lunchmeat.
Visitors may come to the pantry every other week for food, and the team at Jesus House will supply a box for you to fill. The team won’t ask for any form of ID, but will ask for some basic information, such as your name, as required by their grant.
The Jesus House ministry is also stepping up to clothe the community. Anyone needing clothes is invited to stop by between 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Monday through Thursday.
“We have a great volunteer who loves clothes, so we created a makeshift clothing pantry. I think most people leave with four items,” Kyker said.
The pantry has clothes and shoes available, but Kyker said they do often run short on men’s clothes. If you have anything you would like to donate, Kyker and his team welcome the donations. They can be dropped off at any time, even after hours, just leave them under the carport, and someone will bring them in.
Left: A peek inside the pantry Right: Volunteers prepare for lunch
Additionally, His Kitchen, run by the same organization is feeding between 100 and 125 people daily. Located at 1335 E 6th Street, His Kitchen serves a hot meal every Monday through Thursday. Breakfast is served from 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. and lunch is served from 11:00 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. You can also call in between 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. and the team will have a meal ready for you to pick up between 11:30 and noon. Just call 432-337-7195.
Kyker said the ministry has seen a steady increase in the number of people seeking a hot meal.
“We’ve seen a big increase, we’ve always had highs and lows, but lately it’s been the highs. We’ve seen lots of new faces… just busy all the time now and it’s probably going to get busier,” he said.
Donny Kyker said the ministry’s goal is to help the community, no matter the need.
“We love helping people. Our motto is, rich and poor, come in this door. We don’t care what you make, everybody needs some help. We want to be the hands and feet of Jesus, we welcome everybody. If you need prayer, walk in the door.”
Kyker also said he and his team want the community to come to them with any need, even if it’s unrelated to meals or clothing.
“We have ties with other agencies, if you have a need, maybe you need help with a bill, we can direct you to the right place for help,” he said.
As always, if you would like to help this non-profit organization, they accept donations online, you can make those donations here. | 2022-03-22T16:55:57Z | www.yourbasin.com | Jesus House bridging the gap for a community in need | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/jesus-house-bridging-the-gap-for-a-community-in-need/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/jesus-house-bridging-the-gap-for-a-community-in-need/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- The Odessa Police Department is asking for help from the community to identify a man accused of armed robbery.
According to a Facebook post, around 1:20 p.m. on March 21, the man pictured below robbed Rose Garden Spa, located at 800 E. 7th Street. The man got away with an undisclosed amount of money.
If you recognize this man, or the vehicle he was driving, you are asked to call Detective Medrano at 432-335-4937 or Odessa Crime Stoppers at 432-333-8477 and reference case number 22-0004634. If your Crime Stoppers tip leads to an arrest, it could be worth a cash reward. | 2022-03-22T16:56:54Z | www.yourbasin.com | OPD investigating armed robbery | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/opd-investigating-armed-robbery-4/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/opd-investigating-armed-robbery-4/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- An Odessa woman is behind bars after police say she attacked her brother. Journee Greyhatt has been charged with Assault Causing Bodily Injury.
According to an arrest affidavit, around 1:20 a.m. on March 19, officers with the Odessa Police Department were called to a home in the 3800 block of Melody Lane to investigate a disturbance. At the scene, officers found a woman who said the suspect, identified as Greyhatt, had gotten into her liquor cabinet at some point in the evening. She said Greyhatt then started an argument with a man identified as the suspect’s brother.
Police then stepped out onto the back porch where they found the brother sitting on top of, and restraining, the suspect. He told police that Greyhatt had attacked him and he didn’t want to let her up for fear she would “become combative again”.
Officers said when they tried to speak with the suspect, she was uncooperative. According to the affidavit, Greyhatt appeared to be drunk; her eyes were bloodshot and red and she smelled strongly of alcohol.
The victim said at some point during the night, Greyhatt became agitated. When the victim asked the suspect to calm down, she attacked him, according to the affidavit. Officers said the victim had multiple cuts on his left arm as well as a large cut on his right palm that was actively bleeding.
Greyhatt was booked into the Ector County Law Enforcement Center where she is being held on a $2,500 bond. According to jail records, Greyhatt was also arrested and charged with assault in September of last year. | 2022-03-22T19:13:37Z | www.yourbasin.com | Woman arrested after attacking brother, police say | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/woman-arrested-after-attacking-brother-police-say/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/woman-arrested-after-attacking-brother-police-say/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- An Odessa man was arrested after police say he assaulted his ex-girlfriend. The assault happened at the end of last year; on Monday, Marquis O’Neal Douglas was located and taken into custody. He has been charged with Assault Causing Bodily Injury as well as Assault by Impeding Breath.
According to an arrest affidavit, in January, the victim, identified as Douglas’ ex-girlfriend, called the Odessa Police Department to report the assault. She told an officer on December 29, 2021, Douglas slapped her and punched her in her face while she was on her way to take her children to daycare. The victim said she and the accused had gotten into an argument just before the assault.
The victim showed the officer pictures on her phone from that day that showed bruising along the right side of her face, as well as a cut in the corner of her mouth. The victim said a daycare worker had also witnessed the injuries. Police then made contact with the daycare worker who confirmed the injuries.
An arrest warrant was issued for Douglas in early February. As of Tuesday afternoon, Douglas was still listed as an inmate in the Ector County Law Enforcement Center, his bond has been set at $17,500. | 2022-03-22T22:43:48Z | www.yourbasin.com | Odessa man arrested for assaulting ex-girlfriend | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-arrested-for-assaulting-ex-girlfriend/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-arrested-for-assaulting-ex-girlfriend/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar) – According to a poll conducted by KMID ABC Big 2 and KPEJ Fox 24, 100% of respondents agree that the United States should develop it’s own domestic sources of energy rather than relying on sources around the world. The poll included ten questions and were broken down as follows:
Do you believe producing natural gas and oil here in the U.S. helps America maintain a leadership role?
95.3% responded “YES”
Do you believe that producing natural gas and oil here in the U.S. could help lower energy costs for American consumers and small businesses?
Do you agree that producing natural gas and oil here in the U.S. helps make our country and allies more secure against actions by other countries such as Russia?
Do you believe that Russia is responsible for the rising cost of fuel?
58.1% responded “NO”
Do you believe that the current administration is responsible for the rising fuel costs?
Do you trust the current administration to make strategic decisions concerning the production of oil and gas in the US?
Do you feel the current administration is making decisions to support energy independence?
Have you had to change your budget due to rising fuel costs?
Do you feel that the oil and gas industry has been beneficial in this area?
U.S. crude oil production is forecast to rise in 2022 and 2023 to record-high levels. In their February 2022 Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO), they forecast that crude oil prices will remain high enough to drive U.S. crude oil production to record-high levels in 2023, reaching a forecast 12.6 million barrels per day (b/d). They expect new production in the Permian Basin to drive overall U.S. crude oil production growth.
Principal contributors: Matthew French, Naser Ameen/U.S. Energy Information Administration
It is clear that the Permian and Delaware Basins are heading towards an uptick in production. The poll demonstrates that west Texans are on board with the forecast. Whether or not this will be a progressive move towards energy independence is unclear.
However, most residents of the area are positive that the economic success of the US will depend on more than just an increase in production. The poll revealed that there is uncertainty when it comes to government leadership and their ability to make strategic decisions about our energy independence. | 2022-03-22T22:44:02Z | www.yourbasin.com | Permian Basin energy poll results | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/permian-basin-energy-poll-results/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/permian-basin-energy-poll-results/ |
Want to win free Raising Cane’s for a year? Here’s how
Raising Cane’s set to open its doors in Odessa
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- As the largest Raising Cane’s in Texas, it only makes sense for the new Odessa Restaurant to host a huge grand opening celebration. And that’s exactly what local “Caniacs” can expect March 29 through April 1, according to a news release from the popular restaurant.
Located at 4001 E. 42nd St., Odessa’s new Raising Cane’s will officially open its doors on Tuesday, March 29. To celebrate, Odessa’s Mayor, Fire Chief, Police Chief and Chamber of Commerce will host an official ribbon-cutting ceremony starting at 9:30 a.m.
Fans will want to join in on the fun because Cane’s will accept entries from 8:30-9 a.m. for its “Lucky 20” drawing to award 20 Customers ages 13 and older free Cane’s for a year. Winners will be drawn between 9-10 a.m., and Caniacs must be present to win. The first 100 dine-in customers will also receive a free Cane’s t-shirt.
Then on Wednesday, March 30, the new restaurant will partner with the Odessa Humane Society to host onsite pet adoptions and on March 31, customers will receive a free swag bag with every mobile order placed throughout the day. To round out the four-day celebration, a local mariachi band will entertain the crowd while the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosts a ribbon-cutting ceremony starting at 9:30 a.m. on April 1.
Raising Cane’s will also donate $10,000 to various organizations throughout the Odessa community during opening week.
“Local Caniacs have been eager for a Cane’s nearby, so we couldn’t be more excited to open the largest restaurant in Texas right here in Odessa,” said Restaurant Leader Art Pacheco. “Of course, it’s only fitting that as the largest Cane’s in the Lone Star State, we host the largest grand opening celebration. We have a ton of fun things planned next week, so we hope to see you all at the new Restaurant.”
Cane’s has hired more than 200 crewmembers and is still hiring more for its new Odessa Restaurant. Interested candidates should apply here.
Courtesy: Maybe in Midland-Odessa Facebook page. | 2022-03-22T22:44:20Z | www.yourbasin.com | Want to win free Raising Cane’s for a year? Here’s how | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/want-to-win-free-raising-canes-for-a-year-heres-how/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/want-to-win-free-raising-canes-for-a-year-heres-how/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- The Odessa Police Department has now released the name of the victim killed in a hit and run crash. He has been identified as 28-year-old Michael Joe King.
The Odessa Police Department has arrested a woman following a deadly auto-pedestrian accident that happened early Tuesday morning. 25-year-old Christy Contreras has been charged with Accident Involving Death, a 2nd degree felony.
Around 7:00, OPD responded to the intersection of E 42nd Street and N Grandview in reference to a hit and run crash involving a pedestrian. The pedestrian, a 28-year-old man, died at the scene.
Witnesses said the victim was standing in the left turn lane in the 1900 block of E. 42nd Street when a red vehicle, traveling eastbound, struck the victim in the left turn lane and then left the scene, turning northbound on N. Grandview.
The investigation revealed that the vehicle was a Toyota Corolla driven by Contreras. She was later arrested without incident. A mug shot for Contreras was not immediately available.
The name of the victim has not yet been released because next of kin has not been notified. The investigation is on-going. | 2022-03-22T22:44:26Z | www.yourbasin.com | Update: victim in deadly car-pedestrian crash identified | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/woman-arrested-in-deadly-car-pedestrian-crash/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/woman-arrested-in-deadly-car-pedestrian-crash/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar)- A Midland man is behind bars after a drunk driving crash that left one off-duty Midland Police officer injured. Kevin Alejandro Sanchez-Hernandez, 19, has been charged with three counts of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, a 2nd degree felony.
According to an arrest affidavit, around 2:00 a.m. on March 20, a hit and run investigator with MPD was dispatched to La Cantina, a bar located at 200 E Florida Avenue after an off-duty officer, working a security job, called to request help. She said there had been a “serious crash”, that she had been hit by a car and needed an ambulance.
When the investigator arrived at the scene, he found a crash involving three vehicles. The off-duty officer told the investigator her knee was badly injured in the crash.
The driver of one of the vehicles, identified as Sanchez-Hernandez, as well as the off-duty officer were then taken to the hospital for care.
The investigator then reported to the hospital to speak with Sanchez-Hernandez. The teen told the investigator he had been drinking at La Cantina. He said even though he was underage, he felt he was able to get into the bar because he “looked older than he was”. It is unclear if anyone at the bar asked for identification. The teen said he had three beers as well as four shots of Tequila while at the bar.
He then told police when he was leaving the bar, someone tried to fight him. He said the people opened his car door and tried to hit him, which is why he drove away. He did not recall much beyond that, according to the affidavit.
The investigator then went to speak with the off-duty officer who had been providing security for the bar. She was treated for a knee injury, as well as multiple scratches and cuts on her hands.
After speaking with the suspect and victim at the hospital, the investigator then returned to the scene and met with another off-duty officer who had been working security along with the injured officer. That officer said he and his partner were advised of a disturbance in the parking lot just ahead of the crash and that they saw a black Ford Mustang speeding toward them just before the crash.
Investigators then reviewed surveillance video from the parking lot and saw the Mustang, driven by Sanchez-Hernandez, leave the parking lot. The investigator said, “None of the people seen in the security video seem to pay any mind to…Mustang and he leaves without incident.”
The video showed that after the Mustang exited the parking lot, a fight broke out in the parking lot. Shortly after, the Mustang re-entered the parking lot. At that point, a few people did get near the Mustang, but, according to video, no one tried to open the door of the car as the suspect earlier said.
The video then showed the two off-duty officers approach. At that point, the Mustang “rapidly” accelerated toward the officers. According to the affidavit, the Mustang hit a white SVU in the parking lot before hitting the officer and then hitting the building.
The investigator wrote in the affidavit, “Sanchez-Hernandez stated that he drove away to escape a disturbance, but it was clear from security footage that he had the opportunity to leave the bar without incident.”
Sanchez-Hernandez was later booked into the Midland County Detention Center where he was still listed in the jail roster as of Wednesday morning. He is being held in a $150,000 bond. | 2022-03-23T16:20:44Z | www.yourbasin.com | 19-year-old arrested after injuring off-duty officer | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/19-year-old-arrested-after-injuring-off-duty-officer/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/19-year-old-arrested-after-injuring-off-duty-officer/ |
ECTOR COUNTY, Texas (Nexstar)- Ector County ISD held a board meeting Tuesday night and one item on the agenda was to approve a location for a new high school, should the bond to build the school pass in May. Trustees voted unanimously to build that school on district owned land at the intersection of Faudree Road and Yukon Road.
In September of 2015, ECISD purchased 100 acres of land in that fast-growth area for a little more than $2 million as a potential site for new schools. Parks Bell Ranch, which is across the street from the site, is currently home to 5,000 families with plans for more housing. A density map of high school-aged students, part of the most recent demographic study, shows the highest growth of high school-aged students over the next 5-6 years is projected to be in the northeast section of Ector County, around the 100 acres already owned by ECISD.
Here is what voters will be deciding in May: The $398,255,000 bond will consist of two propositions: Prop A, and Prop B. Proposition A will set aside more than $130 million for maintenance and repair projects for existing buildings in the district. Proposition B would set aside funds to build a third high school. You can find a complete break down of the propositions here.
Trustees also discussed the need for another high school in the future in West Odessa as student population growth is occurring there, too, but in smaller numbers. However, building that school would require a bond at some point in the future. | 2022-03-23T16:20:50Z | www.yourbasin.com | ECISD approves location for potential new high school | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/ecisd-approves-location-for-potential-new-high-school/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/ecisd-approves-location-for-potential-new-high-school/ |
ECTOR COUNTY, Texas (Nexstar)- On Tuesday, an Ector County jury found Chandra Diane Johnson, 32, guilty of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Johnson was sentenced to 10 years in prison.
Testimony showed that on March 26, 2021, Johnson assaulted Marco Gonzales and stabbed him with a knife. She was indicted on the crime in May of last year. | 2022-03-23T16:20:56Z | www.yourbasin.com | Odessa woman sentenced to 10 years for assault | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-woman-sentenced-to-10-years-for-assault/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-woman-sentenced-to-10-years-for-assault/ |
PERMIAN BASIN, Texas (Nexstar) – The American Red Cross says that the country is facing one of the worst blood shortages in more than a decade. Right now, blood and platelet donations are critically needed to help prevent further delays in medical treatments. Tracy Austin, the Executive Director for the American Red Cross Serving the Permian Basin says that the shortage of blood has been an ongoing issue for several years now and it continues to become more concerning as time goes on.
Nearly 40% of America’s blood supply comes from the American Red Cross and the national organization is in need of several types of blood including type o negative, type o positive, and blood platelets. The Red Cross reported that some hospitals won’t receive 1 in 4 blood products that they need.
Austin says working in disaster relief situations, blood is critical to rendering aid to those in need.
“During a disaster, it’s absolutely critical to have the blood already on the shelves, so when that disaster happens doctors can access the blood immediately,” says Austin
Whether someone is involved in a car accident, has sickle cell or cancer, Austin says that blood is essential to helping someone survive and that there is no substitute for blood.
“This is a critical time for people to have blood and doctors be able to tend to the patients without having to make difficult decisions,” says Austin.
March is marked as American Red Cross Month on a national level and was recently recognized locally by Mayor Payton in Midland.
The City of Midland took to Facebook and stated that the American Red Cross does honorable service work for the community here in West Texas, the post states “Their work to prevent and alleviate human suffering is vital to strengthening our community’s resilience”.
Those looking to donate blood can do so by contacting your local Vitalant center. The American Red Cross is also looking for volunteers to help better serve the community, to find out more click here. | 2022-03-23T21:11:10Z | www.yourbasin.com | American Red Cross urges the community to donate blood | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/american-red-cross-urges-the-community-to-donate-blood/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/american-red-cross-urges-the-community-to-donate-blood/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar)- A Midland man was arrested over the weekend after police say he stalked and assaulted his ex-girlfriend. Osmany Rodriguez Pulido, 30, has been charged with Violating a Protective Order by Stalking and Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.
According to an affidavit, the crime was first reported in late February. Pulido was taken into custody on March 19.
On February 26, an officer with the Midland Police Department responded to a disturbance in a cul-da-sac at Keswick Road and Melville Drive. At the scene, officers found a man and woman inside a vehicle who said they had been stalked and assaulted by a suspect, later identified as Pulido.
The woman told the officers she and her friend had gone to the Ox Bar earlier in the evening. While outside the bar, when the friend went to get his car, the victim said she was approached by Pulido who was her ex-boyfriend. She said Pulido tried multiple times to get her into his car and was angry when she refused. The two were arguing when the friend returned with his vehicle.
The pair said that initially Pulido tried to block them in with his vehicle to prevent them from leaving the bar. Once they were able to leave, Pulido followed the car and tried to run it off the road. Pulido eventually hit the vehicle, according to the affidavit. The friend said he drove down different roads trying to get away from Pulido and that eventually, he ended up on a dead end street. He said when he tried to turn his car around around in the cul-de-sac, Pulido again blocked them from leaving.
At that point, the victim and her friend said Pulido approached the vehicle and tried to open the door on the victim’s side. When Pulido realized the door was locked, he began to hit the window.
At some point, Pulido reached in through the driver’s side window and into the passenger side and grabbed the victim by her hair. It wasn’t clear in the affidavit if the window was broken, or if the victim’s friend rolled the window down while trying to calm Pulido. Either way, according to the pair, Pulido tried to pull the victim through the window by hair and began yelling when he was unable to do so.
At that point, a homeowner in the neighborhood came outside to see what was happening. Pulido then left the scene.
Investigators continued speaking with the victim and, according to the affidavit, the victim said prior to the incident at the Ox Bar Pulido had shown up at her home demanding to talk to her. She said Pulido initially refused to leave her home, saying he wanted to talk to her and make sure there wasn’t another man inside her home.
The victim also said Pulido had been violent with her in the recent past and that there was an active protective order in place against him. She said Pulido had recently been arrested for violating that order.
The case was then handed over to a detective on February 28. The detective said he spoke with the victim who said that since the incident “events have escalated and (the victim) is in fear for her life”.
An arrest warrant was eventually issued for Pulido, he was later taken into custody. However, according to jail records, Pulido is no longer behind bars. There was no information available regarding bond. | 2022-03-23T21:11:16Z | www.yourbasin.com | Another man arrested for stalking, assault in Midland | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/another-man-arrested-for-stalking-assault/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/another-man-arrested-for-stalking-assault/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- An arrest affidavit for 25-year-old Christy Contreras has revealed new details about how investigators with the Odessa Police Department caught up with the driver accused of hitting and killing a pedestrian Tuesday morning. Contreras has been charged with Accident Involving Death, a 2nd degree felony.
OPD responded to the crash around 7:00 a.m. on March 22; the deadly crash happened in the 1900 block of E 42nd Street. Police said a pedestrian, identified as 28-year-old Michael Joe King, was standing in the left turn lane when he was hit by a driver in a red car. Witnesses at the scene said the driver of that vehicle left the scene, turning northbound onto Grandview Avenue. King was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators had the area blocked off for hours on Tuesday gathering evidence. According to an affidavit, car parts left behind at the scene matched a newer model Toyota Corolla. Cameras in the area showed a matching car traveling east just minutes before the crash. Police were able to get a license plate number for that vehicle and Contreras was identified as the registered owner.
According to the affidavit, investigators later found a phone number for Contreras, and they contacted her by phone. At that point, Contreras admitted to hitting King and leaving the scene.
Contreras was arrested and booked into the Ector County Law Enforcement Center where she is being held on a $35,000 bond. According to jail records, Contreras has been arrested multiple times since 2014. Her most recent arrest was in October of 2020 when she was charged with two counts of Child Abandonment/Endangerment by Criminal Negligence, as well as Evading Arrest/Detention in a Vehicle. | 2022-03-23T21:11:22Z | www.yourbasin.com | Car parts at scene led OPD to hit and run suspect in deadly crash | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/car-parts-at-scene-led-opd-to-hit-and-run-suspect-in-deadly-crash/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/car-parts-at-scene-led-opd-to-hit-and-run-suspect-in-deadly-crash/ |
MIDLAND, Texas: Midland Legacy’s Chase Shores is just like any other high school seniors. A few months from graduation, he has to decide on whether to go to college or join the workforce. His options, however, might be a tad different from that of the normal high school senior.
Shores is among the top high school pitching prospects in America and standing at 6’8″, seeing him staring down at you in the batter’s box is not a welcome sight.
“It’s pretty intimidating,” teammate and longtime friend Carson Lauderdale said of stepping in against Shores. “He gets down the mound and by the time he releases it, it’s like right there in the mitt.”
Shores’ fastball is consistently clocked in the mid to high 90s and keeps batters off-balance with his devastating off-speed pitches. His arsenal and his frame have scouts drooling in the stands at Legacy’s games.
To his teammates and friends, however, he’s just one of the guys.
“I don’t really see him any different, he’s just my brother,” Lauderdale said. “We are best friends and I just see him as that guy, not the other guy.”
Now, back to those options Shores has.
The 17-year old can choose college, with a full scholarship to LSU, one of the top college baseball programs in the country. Then there is the workforce option, which for Shores could mean hearing his name called early in June’s MLB Draft, a new home and team this summer, and a few million dollars in his bank account upon signing.
It is a conundrum driven by his golden right arm, but it’s one that weighs heavy on his mind.
“I think about it every day. I wouldn’t say it’s all I think about, but it does cross my mind a lot,” Shores said of the decision. “Every day I work towards that goal and I trust in my preparation and I trust in the work that I put in to hopefully make that dream come true.”
Shores’ parents, Bryan and Nicole, do not see an undesirable option.
“Whether it’s the route to LSU or he is fortunate enough to get drafted, it’s a blessing,” Bryan Shores said. “Neither road is a bad choice.”
In his senior year, Shores is trying to bask in the last glimmer of childhood before he and his friends are forced to grow up.
“I’m just having fun with it right now,” Shores said. “Playing with my teammates I’ve been growing up with my whole life, I think that’s very special, and after this year, I probably won’t get to do that.”
For the people around him, they know he’s ready for whatever the next step is.
“He is the best I’ve ever coached,” Legacy head coach Eric Garcia said. “I really think he has a shot to be a special one.”
“I think Chase will be a dominant major league pitcher,” Lauderdale said.
As all athletes know, there comes a point in time where they are told they can no longer play the children’s game.
Shores is not ready to hear that yet.
“Honestly, I just want to play baseball for as long as I can,” Shores said. “Not many people get to play after high school, not many get to play after college, and if I am fortunate enough to play in the major leagues, that would be a dream come true.”
The 2022 MLB Draft begins July 17. | 2022-03-24T01:18:50Z | www.yourbasin.com | Legacy’s Shores staring down pro baseball decision | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/sports/local-sports/legacys-shores-staring-down-pro-baseball-decision/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/sports/local-sports/legacys-shores-staring-down-pro-baseball-decision/ |
‘Always gonna miss you’: Odessa hit-and-run victim, 28, remembered
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar) – Michael King was the night manager at the E. 42nd Street Papa John’s Pizza in Odessa.
He was just 28-years-old when he was tragically killed in a hit-and-run on Tuesday morning, not far from his workplace.
“I’m always going to love you and remember you in good thoughts,” said Yolanda Rodriguez, Michael’s co-worker and friend. “I’ll always miss you, baby. It’s going to hurt.”
There is a small memorial dedicated to Michael in the break room of the Papa John’s store. On the poster, Yolanda wrote, “I love you and I’m always gonna miss you.”
Odessa Police said Michael was standing in the left turn lane on the 1900 block of E. 42nd Street near Grandview Avenue around 7 a.m. on Tuesday when he was hit by a driver. That driver left the scene and was later arrested.
Yolanda said Michael was likely walking across the street to buy something, like cigarettes, from the store when he was killed.
“Everybody loved him,” Yolanda said. “Even the customers. They always had a good thing to say about him.”
Yolanda knew Michael well because he was friends with her own son, Isaac. But she said, Michael was like a son to her, too.
“Did you feel like his mom?” reporter Rob Tooke asked.
“Yes, I did,” Yolanda replied. “And it hurts so bad right now that he’s gone.”
Lisa is the day manager at Papa John’s Pizza. She said she started the memorial for Michael, so his co-workers could write what they wish to tell him now.
“Things we wish we would have said to him… things like, “You have beautiful green eyes.’ I never got to say it,” Lisa said. “And I put, ‘We miss you. You were so strong. You were so funny.'”
Michael was a father to a young boy. His co-workers said Michael’s compassion and kindness will define his character, and his legacy. But they want people to know, too: Michael was funny. After all, his dream was to become a comedian.
“This is a joke he told us at work once: ‘Have you heard the airplane joke? You wouldn’t get it, it’s way over your head,” Lisa happily recalled. “Everybody here loved him. And we are going to miss him a lot.” | 2022-03-24T04:56:07Z | www.yourbasin.com | ‘Always gonna miss you’: Odessa hit-and-run victim, 28, remembered | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/local-news/always-gonna-miss-you-odessa-hit-and-run-victim-28-remembered/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/local-news/always-gonna-miss-you-odessa-hit-and-run-victim-28-remembered/ |
For more Permian Basin weather…check here on https://www.yourbasin.com/weather/forecast/. It’s a morning to bundle up across West Texas as Meteorologist Ryan DePhillips highlights many areas starting off in the 20’s and 30’s. However, temperatures will rise into the 70’s across the region with sunny skies and light winds. Despite this enjoyable weather, the drought continues to worsen. | 2022-03-24T12:50:10Z | www.yourbasin.com | Enjoyable Weather Returning? 3-24-2022 | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/weather/forecast/enjoyable-weather-returning-3-24-2022/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/weather/forecast/enjoyable-weather-returning-3-24-2022/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- An Odessa woman is behind bars after police say she broke into a home, stole some jewelry, and fell asleep on the kitchen floor. Maria Rodriguez has been charged with Burglary and Fraudulent Use or Possession of Identifying Information.
According to an arrest affidavit, around 10:45 a.m. on March 22, officers with the Odessa Police Department responded to a home on E 38th Street after someone reported a break-in. At the scene, officers found the side fence of the property has been “forcefully” knocked over and the back door of the home had been forced open as well.
Inside the home, police found a woman, later identified as Rodriguez, asleep on the kitchen floor. Next to the sleeping woman, police found two bags containing jewelry belonging to the homeowner. They also found two Texas Driver’s Licenses and a Mastercard belonging to other people inside the bags. Rodriguez told police she didn’t know the people listed on the cards.
Rodriguez was taken to the Ector County Law Enforcement Center where she was still in custody as of Thursday morning. She is being held on a $24,000 bond. Jail records also showed Rodriguez has been arrested multiple times since 2009 for charges such as drunk driving, theft, and assault.
Live updates: Germany: Russia may try to destabilize … | 2022-03-24T16:59:17Z | www.yourbasin.com | Woman found sleeping on kitchen floor in home break-in | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/woman-found-sleeping-on-kitchen-floor-in-home-break-in/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/woman-found-sleeping-on-kitchen-floor-in-home-break-in/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- An Odessa man is behind bars after police say he shot his stepdad in the neck and then tried to hide the evidence. Robbie Washburn has been charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon and Tampering with Physical Evidence.
Around 7:50 p.m. on March 22, officers with the Odessa Police Department responded to a home in the 3800 block of Hinkle Street to investigate after someone called to report someone with a gun. When police arrived at the scene, the found Washburn, who told them his stepdad had pointed a gun at him. According to an arrest affidavit, Washburn said when his stepdad pointed the gun in his direction, he pushed him to the ground; he said when his stepdad fell, he fired two shots into the ceiling, then picked up the shell casings and left the home.
The officers stated in the affidavit they saw two bullet holes in the ceiling, another bullet hole in the door frame of a closet in the living room as well as one in the closet door. They also found two bullet holes in the wall inside the closet and a bullet hole in the door of a hallway closet.
Officers then contacted the stepdad, who was being treated at Medical Center Hospital, and he had a different take on what had happened in the home.
The stepdad told officers he and Washburn had been arguing when Washburn began punching him in the face. He said he did fall to the ground during the attack and that when he fell, Washburn jumped on top of him and pulled out a gun. He said Washburn fired at least five rounds into the air, then place the gun to his head and fired a shot through his neck. The victim said Washburn then picked up the shell casings and threw them away in the kitchen trash.
Officers said the victim had a bullet wound in his neck, as well as redness and swelling around his face.
Officers then contacted Washburn’s sister. She stated she’d received a phone call from Washburn earlier in the evening and that he told her he’d shot his stepdad in the head.
According to the affidavit, officers returned to the home to try and find the shell casings but were unable to locate them. They believed Washburn had hidden them to conceal the evidence.
Washburn was taken to the Ector County Law Enforcement Center where he is being held on a combined bond of $120,000. According to jail records, Washburn has been arrested multiple times since 2010 for crimes such as drunk driving and evading arrest. | 2022-03-24T20:35:32Z | www.yourbasin.com | Odessa man jailed after shooting stepdad in the neck | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-jailed-after-shooting-stepdad-in-the-neck/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-jailed-after-shooting-stepdad-in-the-neck/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- A man accused of robbing a business at gunpoint earlier this week has been identified. Now the Odessa Police Department is asking for help from the community to find him. Two arrest warrants have been issued for Isaiah Jerald Jackson, 33 years old, of Humble, Texas charging him with Aggravated Robbery and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
On March 21, OPD officers responded to a robbery at the Rose Garden Spa, located at 800 East 7th Street. An employee of the business told police that an unknown man the business and assaulted her by beating her with his fist and a handgun, while dragging her throughout the business. The victim sustained multiple injuries, she was taken to Medical Center Hospital where she was treated and released.
Police said Jackson took an undisclosed amount of money before leaving the scene. He left in white 4-door newer model Dodge Ram 4×4 with an auxiliary tank in the bed of the truck.
Anyone who knows where Jackson can be found is asked to call Odessa Crime Stoppers at 432-333-TIPS or OPD at 432-333-3641. If your Crime Stoppers tip leads to an arrest, it could be worth a cash reward. | 2022-03-24T20:35:38Z | www.yourbasin.com | OPD asking for help to find wanted fugitive | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/opd-asking-for-help-to-find-wanted-fugitive/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/opd-asking-for-help-to-find-wanted-fugitive/ |
The next time you go into Dillard’s, you may see a clothing line that has art work on it of a local artist.
Midlander Carrie Hawkins’ art work isn’t just on clothes at local Dillards, it’s in Dillard’s across the country.
“This has been a dream,” say Hawkins.
Some of Hawkins’ work displayed at Dillard’s in Midland
The past year she has been working with Dillard’s to get her art work onto a children’s clothing line called Edgehill Collection that’s in Dillard’s all across America.
“It’s very bizarre to see my face in Dillard’s,” says Hawkins. “And people sending me pictures from Dillard’s in Washington D.C.”
Her work is on children’s dresses, boys and girls swim suits and puddle jumper covers.
It all started seven years ago when she started her company Pearly Gates Designs.
She’s a water color artist that does anything from art prints to wallpaper, to wrapping paper and much more.
“I’ve always been interested in children’s fashion,” says Hawkins. “My style is very feminine and whimsical. It kind of fed into my other life interests, and the worlds collided.’
Her work eventually got noticed by Dillard’s which led her to this point. She says her work is her passion and each piece of art on each piece of clothing has a lot of love in them.
“I hope for every boy and girl that wears it, that they can see that these pieces are created by hand, there’s so much love in them.”
This Saturday (March 24th) you can meet Carrie and check out her work. She’ll be at the Dillard’s in Midland from noon to 3 p.m. talking about her product and doing a fashion show. | 2022-03-25T02:33:07Z | www.yourbasin.com | Local artist’s work featured in Dillard’s stores across country | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/local-artists-work-featured-in-dillards-stores-across-country/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/local-artists-work-featured-in-dillards-stores-across-country/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar) – Some relief for local families as new affordable housing is coming to South Odessa. Today gold shovels broke ground on a new subdivision in the 1200 Block of Lamesa Street that is set to have 12 new affordable homes.
In partnership with Rhodes USA & NEO Construction, the Odessa Housing Finance Corporation is leading the way on supporting the southside of Odessa by growing the community, one wall at a time.
Jill Miller is the Executive Director of the Odessa Housing Finance Corporation. She said this is one of the most exciting moments, after waiting for almost 12 years for the project to finally become a reality.
“It’s very exciting, today’s a great day, we’ve been working on this project for over ten years, and we’re finally actually getting to see it start and come to fruition and actually start building and be able to sell to people and getting them the American Dream,” said Miller.
Miller also mentioned, with the housing market across West Texas continuing to soar, it is now more crucial to offer some assistance in affording homes.
“It’s super important for us to offer work force and affordable housing, in this area and to able to offer somebody $20,000 in down payment closing costs assistance and all they have to do is live there for 5 years and they don’t have to pay it back, it’s a huge impact to that person to qualify, they just have to have credit to get a loan,” added Miller.
Odessa District One Councilman, Mark Matta had a huge part in making the project a reality. He said he is so proud of what the partnership has created.
He said the partnerships that have been created will allow for much more affordable housing throughout Odessa in the future.
“It’s really important to partner up with the city of Odessa and the Odessa Housing Finance Corporation, and Odessa Development Corporation, so we can get those funds to help bring that money down for all the infrastructure cost, to make it affordable for the developers so they can pass those savings on to the end users,” added Matta.
Matta also said this is just the start for South Odessa.
“The growth out here in the southside is just beginning, there’s going to be a lot more to come,” emphasized Matta.
Matta said the organizations are looking to build another 53 homes in South Odessa, along with strip malls and parks, hoping to focus on creating more value in this area.
Update: Judicial Indictments reveal more about Andrews … | 2022-03-25T02:33:13Z | www.yourbasin.com | New affordable homes coming to South Odessa | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/new-affordable-homes-coming-to-south-odessa/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/new-affordable-homes-coming-to-south-odessa/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar)- Midland Crime Stoppers is asking for help from the community to identify a theft suspect.
According to Crime Stoppers, around 2:00 p.m. on March 12, the man in the video below was caught on camera opening the door of a truck. He reportedly stole a toolbox, Dell laptop, and an Apple iPad, valued at more than $3,000. He left the scene in a white Toyota Tundra.
If you recognize this man, or know who owns the vehicle, please call 432-694-TIPS and reference case number 220312028. If your Crime Stoppers tip leads to an arrest, it could be worth a cash reward. | 2022-03-25T18:22:55Z | www.yourbasin.com | Crime Stoppers searching for theft suspect | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/crime-stoppers-searching-for-theft-suspect/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/crime-stoppers-searching-for-theft-suspect/ |
Local advocacy center prepares for Child Abuse Awareness month
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar) – Local advocates at Harmony Home Children’s Advocacy Center say that the number of child abuse cases in the Basin has gone up in recent months. According to Executive Director Carrie Bronaugh, there’s been a 73% increase in cases from 2020. In the state of Texas, you are required by law to report abuse, failure to do so will result in legal action.
“If you discover it, if you see it or you suspect it, report it to report it to law enforcement or report it to child protective services one of the two,” says Bronaugh.
The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services reported more than 4,000 Child Protective Service investigations in 2020 in the Midland Odessa and San Angelo area. Out of the cases investigated, more than a thousand were confirmed child abuse and neglect cases.
Recently, the Harmony Home reported an uptick in cases from February of this year to March 15th.
“Last month we did 39 interviews and we were already at 34 halfway through the month of March now I will say that a lot of our interviews that took place in March had multiple children in the home so that increased our numbers,” says Bronaugh.
Bronaugh says that for more than 30 years Harmony Home has supported victims and their families through Chios abuse investigations and with April right around the corner, she wants the community to take a stand against child abuse in honor of Child Abuse Awareness month.
The Harmony Home Children’s Advocacy Home has a number of events this month and leading into the month of April to spread awareness for child abuse and neglect.
The Champions for Children Conference at the MCM Fundome is being held today from 8 am to 5 pm, and the event consists of recent studies to help better understand different aspects of child abuse and development.
Next week, a Community Conversation will be held at UTPB to bring forth specific data to local community leaders about issues like child abuse and domestic violence.
In April, the advocacy center will kick off the month with sirens across Odessa in honor of Child Abuse Awareness Month along with several free events for the community to enjoy.
National statistics show that a child’s abuser is likely someone that they know. Bronaugh believed that the COVID-19 pandemic caused cases to increase because of children being in the home with their potential abusers.
The center has several steps that a child must go through to receive the proper professional help.
“They have to be interviewed, we have to give them services, we have to coordinate between all of the investigative agencies so that those children are not left between the cracks,” says Bronaugh.
From forensic investigators to tracing trauma therapists, Harmony Home has endless resources for victims and their caregivers.
“We are very fortunate to have trauma-based therapy services for all of our children that come through these doors as well as their caregivers or any of the siblings living in that home,” says Bronaugh.
Recently, Bronaugh had a case of a child being sexually abused as young as 11 months old, she says that had it not been for the siblings speaking up then the abuse would have continued.
Bronaugh says that child abuse is preventable if people in the community take a stand against the dangers of abuse and that children should be able to live in a world without it. | 2022-03-25T18:23:01Z | www.yourbasin.com | Local advocacy center prepares for Child Abuse Awareness month | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/local-advocacy-center-prepares-for-child-abuse-awareness-month/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/local-advocacy-center-prepares-for-child-abuse-awareness-month/ |
The S&P 500 index was up 0.3% as of 2:21 p.m. Eastern, after having been down 0.4% in the early going. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 76 points, or 0.2%, to 34,783 and the Nasdaq fell 0.4%.
Crude oil prices gained ground after slipping earlier. The price for U.S. benchmark crude oil rose 0.6% and Brent crude, the international standard, rose 0.8%. Prices are still up about 50% globally for the year. | 2022-03-25T18:53:22Z | www.yourbasin.com | Stocks stall as Wall Street wraps up bumpy week of trading | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/business/asian-stocks-mixed-after-west-vows-more-russia-sanctions/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/business/asian-stocks-mixed-after-west-vows-more-russia-sanctions/ |
First of its kind entrepreneurial class to be offered and Odessa and Howard Colleges
MIDLAND, TX. (NEXSTAR) — An exciting new opportunity is coming to our local colleges soon.
Monday, March 28th, a 10 week course to start a business and entrepreneurship will be offered.
“I knew there wasn’t anything here existing to do this.” said Michael Crain, Senior Partner and Founder of Bam BizHub, also known as the B2 Hub Accelerator Program. He’s implementing an entrepreneurial certification program for West Texans.
Now this program has been in existence, but never partnered with a school before. People can now sign up for the program at Odessa College or Howard College.
“The process is 18% of the class time is face to face, whiled the rest of it is all online, with live presentations. They’re not pre-recorded, so we can take questions.” said Crain.
Crain said he wanted something industry driven versus a template structured program.
Its open to all ages, even high school students.
“City of Andrews, Pecos, Monohans, Rankin, Crane and I believe McCamey, are all able to jump on board with this online program.” said Crain.
The 10 week program costs $150 to take, and Crain said having this certifications opens up a lot of doors for opportunity.
“Anybody that’s in a business, or starting a business, whether your a start up, early stage, or growth driven business, or even a student, you can definitely come down to Odessa College or Howard College and get involved.” said Crain.
This opportunity launched last year with almost 600 total enrollments now.
“The program consists of anything from thought to launch. So we take you through the process of what you need to do to research your idea, how to brainstorm that idea, the feasibility of that idea, all the way through till you get to a business model, a business plan, and price modeling.” said Crain.
With a heavy background in business himself, Crain says he’s excited to help out others.
“I’ve had a construction company, I’ve had a restaurant, I’ve had 272 employees in a manufacturing company, I’ve never had someone to tell me what I was doing was right or wrong, and if you don’t know the wrongs, it usually costs you some money.” said Crain.
You can show up at Odessa College on Monday night at 6:30 to get started.
There will be Spring, Summer and Fall course opportunities, with much much more to come in the near future.
“Being part of a business plan you really should know what your competition looks like, what your audience looks like, whose your audience, whether or not you have a product fit for the market, and whether or not you even have a proof of concept.” said Crain. | 2022-03-26T03:05:07Z | www.yourbasin.com | First of its kind entrepreneurial class to be offered and Odessa and Howard Colleges | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/first-of-its-kind-entrepreneurship-class-to-be-offered-and-odessa-and-howard-colleges/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/first-of-its-kind-entrepreneurship-class-to-be-offered-and-odessa-and-howard-colleges/ |
MIDLAND, Tex (Nexstar) – On March 23rd, a Lubbock man was arrested after police say he and three others travelled to Midland Park Mall to steal thousands of dollars worth of items from several different stores.
Law enforcement spoke about these traveling criminals and how they can be identified from different locations. Midland Police said that traveling criminals have become all too common, but law enforcement are stepping up their efforts to put a stop to these types of crimes.
“It’s been something that’s been going on, it’ll continue going on especially in the Permian Basin, we’re looked at as the new version of the gold rush, so to speak,” said Midland Police Officer Chane Blandford.
Just last week, 21-year-old Tyson Maldonado of Lubbock was one of the men arrested for this type of crime. He’s being charged with robbery, along with five counts of theft. Police said Maldonado was seen shoplifting multiple times from several stores inside the mall, then selling the items on Facebook.
Blandford said people travelling to West Texas, or other locations from their hometowns to commit these types of crimes, is a very common occurrence, and one that won’t stop anytime soon.
“They know this is where the monies at, this is where people keep things in their cars with value, so they know that is they drive an hour, 30 mins, wherever they come from, that they can probably get a good score,” added Blandford.
Blandford said keeping a good relationship with other police departments in surrounding counties helps police to identify these criminals, but the use of social media and crime stoppers is the biggest factor.
“A lot of times, social media solves a lot and we put it out there, we put it on crime stoppers, and once it goes on crime stoppers and people realize they can make money off of giving good information, then that’s how a lot of crimes get solved,” mentioned Blandford.
Blandford also said that while some security cameras may not be able to help show the faces of criminals, someone out there can help, and with the use of money as a reward for tips, it’s even easier for police to get the help they need.
“You’d be surprised, people know people, and some people don’t like other individuals, and so whenever money gets involved, they’ll be happy to let the agency know, that they know who that person is and goes from there,” joked Blandford.
MPD also said while this continues to be a trend, make sure to keep your car doors and your house front doors locked at all times. | 2022-03-29T17:01:18Z | www.yourbasin.com | Traveling criminals hitting the Permian Basin | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/traveling-criminals-hitting-the-permian-basin/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/traveling-criminals-hitting-the-permian-basin/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- On Tuesday, Ector County ISD Trustees approved the naming of Bonham Middle School’s football field in honor of former coach J.T. King.
Coach King, a U.S. Marine, moved to Odessa in the late 1940’s to work in the oil industry before he was hired by ECISD to teach and coach at Crockett Junior High. He became a head coach at Bonham Junior High in 1959 and spent the next 25 years there compiling a record of 150 wins, 43 losses, and six ties. At one time he had a 36-game winning streak.
ECISD said in a news release, “J.T. King coached and taught in the community he loved for 33 years before retiring in 1985.” | 2022-03-30T20:54:57Z | www.yourbasin.com | Bonham MS football field to be named in honor of former coach | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/bonham-ms-football-field-to-be-named-in-honor-of-former-coach/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/bonham-ms-football-field-to-be-named-in-honor-of-former-coach/ |
OPD arrests woman accused of threatening to kill former roommate
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- Last Saturday, the Odessa Police Department arrested a woman accused of threatening to kill her former roommate. Shatoya Ellis has been charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.
According to an affidavit, around 4:50 a.m. on March 26, officers responded to the 1400 block of John Ben Shepperd Parkway after a report came in that someone had fired a gun in the area. At the scene, officers found three people arguing outside an apartment. One woman at the scene said she used to share a home with Ellis and that Ellis was threatening to shoot her.
The officer said Ellis had the gun in her waistband; the officer removed the magazine and cleared the chamber. Ellis was taken to the Ector County Law Enforcement Center where she remains behind bars on a $25,000 bond. | 2022-03-30T20:55:10Z | www.yourbasin.com | OPD arrests woman accused of threatening to kill former roommate | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/opd-arrests-woman-accused-of-threatening-to-kill-former-roommate/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/opd-arrests-woman-accused-of-threatening-to-kill-former-roommate/ |
EVANS, Ga. (WJBF) – Anna Davis, a 16 year-old from Spring Valley, California and playing in the final group of the day, birdie her last hole for a 70 and a tie for the lead at 2-under par. Joining her at the top of the leader board is Benedetta Moresco of Italy, a sophomore at the University of Alabama. The two share a one-shot lead over a group of three.
Anna Davis of the United States plays her second stroke on No. 10 during a practice round prior to the Augusta National Women’s Amateur at Champions Retreat Golf Club, Tuesday, March 29, 2022. (Photo courtesy: ANWA)
Ingrid Lindblad of Sweden, the world’s No. 2 ranked women’s amateur, shot an opening round of 1-under-71 to share the clubhouse lead early Wednesday afternoon during the first round of the Augusta National Women’s Amateur. Lindblad is a junior at LSU. | 2022-03-30T20:55:47Z | www.yourbasin.com | Round one updates from Augusta National Women’s Amateur | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/masters-report/round-one-updates-from-augusta-national-womens-amateur/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/masters-report/round-one-updates-from-augusta-national-womens-amateur/ |
ECISD approves UTBP STEM partnership
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- Tuesday evening, Ector County ISD Trustees approved an agreement with the University of Texas Permian Basin STEM Academy. Beginning this July, UTPB STEM students will become a part of ECISD while the school will maintain its charter independence.
Currently enrolled students will be allowed to remain as part of the STEM family and any open spots will be filled through ECISD’s Choice School lottery.
In May of 2019, UTPB announced that financial concerns had the University looking for an educational partnership that would allow STEM to keep its doors open to its kindergarten through twelfth grade students, many of whom had been enrolled in STEM since the beginning. Initially, UTPB said it would partner with IDEA Public Schools, but that plan was met with backlash from parents after IDEA said it would not guarantee a spot for currently enrolled students, nor would it guarantee that STEM teachers would have a job. Parents were also concerned that the STEM learning model would be scrapped for an IDEA way of learning.
Following the backlash, UTPB President Dr. Sandra Woodley said the University would continue searching for other options that would focus on retaining students and staff, keeping the STEM project-based instructional model, and establishing a long-term plan of action for permanent facilities.
The partnership with ECISD will allow for new opportunities for STEM students, specifically, STEM students will now have access to ECISD services and extra-curricular activities, such as sports, choir, and band. | 2022-03-30T20:56:05Z | www.yourbasin.com | ECISD approves UTBP STEM partnership | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/ecisd-approves-utbp-stem-partnership/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/ecisd-approves-utbp-stem-partnership/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- On Monday, the Odessa Police Department arrested two men following an argument that led to a physical fight. Janzen Digby has been charged with Injury to an Elderly Person, a third-degree felony. His grandfather, Richard Digby, has been charged with Assault, Family Violence, a misdemeanor.
According to an affidavit, on March 28, officers responded to a disturbance at a home in the 3900 block of Lakeside Drive. At the scene, police found the relatives, who said they were in the process of moving out of the home when an argument began.
Richard told officers he and his grandson had been arguing when things escalated, and Janzen began “chest bumping” him multiple times. Richard said he felt threatened and that he bumped Janzen in return. He said at that point, Janzen grabbed him by the shirt and the arm and that he tripped over items in the garage. Richard said after the fall, he punched Janzen in the face and then called the police.
The affidavit stated that Janzen told police the argument escalated when Richard punched him in the face and that after his grandfather fell, his grandfather punched him several more times.
Both men had visible injuries, the officer stated. Richard has bruising on his arm, as well as scratches from the fall. Janzen has an injury to his nose and swelling on his forehead.
Both men were taken to the Ector County Law Enforcement Center where they remain behind bars as of Wednesday afternoon. Janzen is being held on a $4,000 bond. Richard’s bond has been set at $3,000. | 2022-03-30T20:56:17Z | www.yourbasin.com | Grandfather, grandson arrested after family fight | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/grandfather-grandson-arrested-after-family-fight/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/grandfather-grandson-arrested-after-family-fight/ |
Local literacy organization to reveal new research
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar) – The Literacy Coalition of the Permian Basin stated in a press release on March 29th that a study done in the Permian Basin proved that adults have low literacy skills in this area. The LCPB announced that a summit is going to be held on May 3rd displaying the impact this issue has on adults in the Permian Basin.
Teaming up with Abell-Hanger Foundation, FMH Foundation, Prentice Farrar & Alline Ford Brown Foundation, the Permian Strategic Partnership, the Permian Basin Literacy Summit will be the first event of its kind that reveals the study done on adults in the area. Literacy stakeholders are invited to the groundbreaking event. People in attendance can expect to see research from interviews with higher education, local school districts, and adult literacy programs along with adult learners.
This summit is invite-only and will be held at the Ward County Event Center in Monahans, Texas 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. | 2022-03-30T20:56:29Z | www.yourbasin.com | Local literacy organization to reveal new research | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/local-literacy-organization-to-reveal-new-research/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/local-literacy-organization-to-reveal-new-research/ |
Man arrested after driving through fence of Midland home
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar)- Earlier this week the Midland Police Department arrested a man accused of driving drunk and running through the fence of a Midland home. Carlos Carrasco, 35, has been charged with Driving While Intoxicated.
According to an affidavit, around 5:15 on March 28, an officer arrived at the scene of a crash in the 1300 block of Delmar Street. At the scene, the officer found the driver, identified as Carrasco, detained by a Sheriff’s Deputy who had been near the scene. The officer said Carrasco refused to answer any questions but did state he was upset at the time of the crash. Officers found two open containers of alcohol inside of Carrasco’s vehicle and Carrasco had slurred speech and bloodshot eyes, according to the affidavit.
Carrasco was taken to Midland Memorial Hospital for medical clearance. At the hospital, Carrasco began to raise his voice an ask for help. The officer stated he asked Carrasco what he needed, and that Carrasco said he needed therapy and that he was an alcoholic. Carrasco then admitted drinking that day after work before crashing into the fence.
Carrasco was taken to the Midland County Jail after he was released from the hospital. He has since been released from jail on a $500 bond. | 2022-03-30T20:56:41Z | www.yourbasin.com | Man arrested after driving through fence of Midland home | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/man-arrested-after-driving-through-fence-of-midland-home/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/man-arrested-after-driving-through-fence-of-midland-home/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- On Monday, the Odessa Police Department responded to the area of Ada and Hickory after a report came in about shots fired. On Tuesday, OPD arrested one person in connection with that case. Fernando Baeza Jr., 22, has been charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.
The call came in around 4:30 p.m. on March 28. Around that same time, a social media post showed a large police presence near Ector Middle School; however, Ector County ISD said the gun shots did not come from the school and there was no threat to anyone on campus.
Investigators spoke with people in the area, and according to a media release, witnesses said a group of minors and one adult were gathered when a verbal argument escalated to shots being fired. No one was injured in the shooting and the suspects left the scene before police arrived.
Baeza was identified as a suspect and he was taken into custody on March 29. Bond has not yet been set and a mugshot for Baeza was not immediately available.
OPD said the investigation into the shooting is ongoing, anyone with additional information is asked to call Odessa Crime Stoppers at 432-333-TIPS.
Courtesy: Chayo Sanchez | 2022-03-30T20:56:53Z | www.yourbasin.com | OPD makes arrest in Monday shooting | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/opd-makes-arrest-in-monday-shooting/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/opd-makes-arrest-in-monday-shooting/ |
Odessa man jailed on motion to revoke probation for DWI
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- An Odessa man is back behind bars after a motion to revoke his probation was filed in court. These motions are typically filed when a person has violated the terms of their probation.
Filomeno Burrola III, who was previously convicted of drunk driving following an arrest in 2015, was arrested again in February on another driving while intoxicated charge. He was brought back into custody on March 30.
According to an affidavit from February 16, 2022, an officer with the Odessa Police Department saw a black truck, driven by Burrola, swerving between multiple lanes of traffic in the 2200 block of N County Road West. The officer said Burrola refused to pull over and later, in the 300 block of Conet, threw an empty beer can out of the driver’s side window.
Eventually, Burrola pulled over and was taken into custody for drunk driving and tampering with evidence. He was later released on an $11,000 bond.
Jail records indicate Burrola has been arrested multiple times since 2009 on alcohol related offenses. He was arrested in 2015 and charged with Intoxication Assault with a Vehicle causing Serious Bodily Injury. Records indicate Burrola did serve some jail time related to this charge, but was later released. Burrola is now being held without bond. | 2022-03-31T20:03:32Z | www.yourbasin.com | Odessa man jailed on motion to revoke probation for DWI | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-jailed-on-motion-to-revoke-probation-for-dwi/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-jailed-on-motion-to-revoke-probation-for-dwi/ |
GREENWOOD, TX. (NEXSTAR) — Each month, four teachers are chosen for our Teacher of the Month Award. They’re nominated by you at home, and all sponsored by Pioneer Natural Resources.
Out of the four, one is chosen to receive an in person surprise. This month we chose Mrs. Sindy Mclain.
Sindy Mclain is a 6th grade Science Teacher at James R Brooks Middle School in Midland.
“I was shocked. I mean I thought why are these people coming into my room? Then when I saw the balloons, I though oh I haven’t done anything special. I really though it was my husband or something.” said Mclain.
Mclain said she spends many long hours up at the school, and that it feels good to be acknowledged for her hard work.
“I’m super humbled, because I spend a lot of time up here. I’m usually up here by 7 or 7:30, and I usually don’t leave until 8 or 8:30, because I’m a strong advocate for hands on learning activities, I don’t like doing worksheets all the time, I really want to make learning fun.” said Mclain.
Her education journey was anything but typical though.
“I didn’t finish high school, I was 42 when I started college, and I want to catch those kid who may fall through the cracks, because everybody has the ability, they just have to believed in themselves.” said Mclain.
She said her students are what make it all worth while.
“Every day I go home with a bigger heart, because somebody has wrote me something, or said something to me, or given me something. They just overwhelm me with love they really do. It just makes every day worth coming to, no matter how tired I am, they’re worth seeing every day.” said Mclain.
She taught high school before transitioning to middle school, and said the students that reach out to her years later hold a special place in her heart.
“I’ve got kids who still contact me and say if it wasn’t for you, no one would’ve ever cared. Those are the kids that it really touches me because they come from terrible homes, and they’re in the foster system and to know that you made a difference in their lives for the better, its just worth more than any gift or accolade could ever mean to me.” said Mclain.
Another congrats also to Ms. Abby Gonzales, who was another one of our winners for Teacher of the Month She teaches Fourth Grade at Greathouse Elementary.
Ms. Stephanie Clark is also one of our winners. She teaches 5th Grade Science at Lee Elementary.
Ms. Phyllis Moralez as well, a First Grade Teacher at Dezavala Elementary School.
These teachers all got a $250 dollar gift card towards their classrooms.
A big congrats to all of our winners for this month on the amazing work they continue to do for the children in our community. | 2022-03-31T23:10:29Z | www.yourbasin.com | Congrats Mrs. Sindy Mclain! | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/congrats-mrs-sindy-mclain/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/congrats-mrs-sindy-mclain/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- The Odessa Police Department is asking for help from the community to identify three people accused of trying to steal from Walmart.
According to a Facebook post, om February 26, the man and two women pictured below tried to steal more than $1,500 worth of goods from the big box store. The trio was confronted by Asset Protection employees and were not able to leave the store with the stolen goods. The group left the scene in a white Ford work truck towing a small trailer.
Anyone who recognizes these suspects is asked to call Detective Cordero at 432-335-4615 or Odessa Crime Stoppers at 432-333-TIPS. If your Crime Stoppers tip leads to an arrest, it could be worth a cash reward. | 2022-03-31T23:10:59Z | www.yourbasin.com | OPD investigating would be Walmart thieves | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/opd-investigating-would-be-walmart-thieves/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/opd-investigating-would-be-walmart-thieves/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar) – It is important to recognize the remarkable women in our lives and for many in the Permian Basin, that woman is Emily Cunningham.
Emily Cunningham has dedicated her life to serving the Midland community through teaching, counseling, mentoring and being a woman to lean on.
“I feel like I’m just doing my part,” Cunningham says.
Emily Cunningham is an Odessa native and being highlighted as a remarkable woman in her hometown is a privilege.
“It is such an honor I feel like being a woman is such an important thing it definitely is an asset, I feel to the community and to families being a woman is not easy,” Cunningham says.
Being a widow has made her reflect on what is important in life.
“I lost my husband three years ago and I kind of see myself [that] my purpose now is to get out and make a difference in peoples lives,” Cunningham says. Let them know that they matter and they’re important and that they are loved so that’s what I try to do everyday.
As a widow and single mother her main goal is showing her son that a women’s job is really important.
“Especially this day and age we’re working were taking care of our family we’re setting our budgets we’re doing all the things that used to women didn’t do,” Cunningham says. And so I think it’s awesome for him to see that.
Not only is she a teacher in Midland but also the President of Crisis Center of West Texas being an advocate of creating new opportunities for a better life.
“Breaking the cycle of abuse and letting these victims know that this is a season and we are here to make it better and we are here to change that,” Cunningham says.
But teaching also fills her heart.
“I always have loved teaching, I love being a positive light for the kids not matter their socio-economic situation they always need someone that believes in them that is role model for them and that shows them it’s okay to make the right decisions even if it’s not the popular decision,” Cunningham says. If I can do that everyday and show them that they matter that’s what they need.
She believes her positive outlook on life with the help of God has gotten her to where she is today and her advice to young women in the community is to never give up and know that they sky is the limit. | 2022-04-01T01:59:13Z | www.yourbasin.com | Remarkable woman: Meet Emily Cunningham | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/national/remarkable-woman-meet-emily-cunningham/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/national/remarkable-woman-meet-emily-cunningham/ |
As West Texas populations fluctuate because of the oil industry, one city is steadily growing over the years, and has big plans to keep growing.
Pecos has seen its population grow 45% in the last decade.
“If you haven’t been to Pecos in the last 10 years, you’d be surprised,” says executive director of Pecos Economic Development Corporation Kenneth Winkles Jr.
A picture of the new Cyclone Ballparks in Pecos
Pecos is looking towards the future. Winkles Jr. says it has now has just under 13,000 people who live there, up from 8,800 back in 2010.
Some of the biggest upgrades include the development of 300 housing units in the last five years, a new grocery store, $114 million dollars towards a new hospital, a $15 million dollar rec center, and $18 million that was spent on a new sports complex.
Other investments include upgrades to the local golf course, the senior center, and the high school football stadium.
“In economic development you learn one rule: without rooftops, retail doesn’t come,” says Winkles Jr. “We did not have the rooftops, now we do.”
We also talked to Pecos native Joseph Jaquez. He owns multiple businesses in the city, including Airlawn Furniture, Old Mill Restaurant, and Dairy Mart.
“We want the community to continue to grow,” says Juaqez. “Support anybody who wants to come.”
Jaquez says investments like this have been a long time coming.
The planned loop that’s likely to be built around Pecos. (Picture provided by Pecos Economic Development Corporation)
“I feel Pecos has always been behind before the boom had picked it up,” says Jaquez. “We’ve come a long ways in development and trying to get new businesses here.”
The city is also prioritizing reducing traffic on its streets. Because of where it’s located, the town sees more than 3,000 semi-trucks go through it every day, which can cause headaches.
“Our traffic is sometimes, to say the least, horrendous,” says Winkles Jr.
Local entities are working with TxDOT on a loop that could relieve traffic in the coming years. Part of that loop, the Eastern Reliever Route, is set to break ground in 2026. Winkles says it will be a generation before that loop gets fully completed. | 2022-04-01T01:59:19Z | www.yourbasin.com | Pecos builds towards future | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/pecos-builds-towards-future/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/pecos-builds-towards-future/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar) – Bruce Willis and his family announced that the well-known actor has been diagnosed with aphasia and has stepped away from acting. But many people still don’t quite understand the disease. Now the actor’s diagnosis is bringing more awareness to this condition.
The Aphasia Center of West Texas said about 86% of people have no clue what happens when a person is diagnosed with aphasia. The program director of the center, Beth Crawford, said there are a lot of people in the United States that live with aphasia every day.
“There’s someone that acquires aphasia about once every four minutes, in the U.S. So, one in about 250 people in West Texas acquire aphasia, every year,” added Crawford.
Crawford said it’s a common disease that right now, at least 2.5 million people have it in the U.S. alone, and that 75% don’t return to work after their diagnosis.
“So, aphasia is a loss of language. It’s a communication disorder and it’s usually a result of a sudden brain injury or stroke,” said Crawford.
She said most people don’t know what aphasia is because the loss of the language makes it difficult for those who have it, to explain what they’re going through.
“Whenever someone acquires aphasia, they have difficulty expressing themselves using language, understanding words, using reading and writing, so it’s hard to have a spokesman, for a disorder that effects language,” emphasized Crawford.
Crawford stressed that having aphasia doesn’t mean someone has lost their memories or abilities to think, but that people need to understand the problem is expressing those thoughts and memories.
“Their memory, reasoning, problem solving, judgement, are all intact. It’s not what they know it’s how they reveal what they know, that is the problem,” said Crawford.
Crawford and the Aphasia Center understand the difficulties that those who are affected by aphasia go through, but also want to make things clear that no one is ever alone.
“We want you to know that you’re not alone, that other people are here to support you and there is hope, there’s growth, there’s improvement,” said Crawford
The Aphasia Center of West Texas also offers their deepest concerns and compassion to the Willis family as they are going through this time.
If you wish to learn more about the Aphasia Center of West Texas or aphasia itself, you can head to the center’s website. | 2022-04-01T01:59:25Z | www.yourbasin.com | What to know about Aphasia | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/what-to-know-about-aphasia/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/what-to-know-about-aphasia/ |
by: Cameron Stuart
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar) – The foundation of the Odessa Jackalopes’ success this season has come from Alex…or William…Proctor.
“That’s what I’ve got him in my phone as… Alex William Proctor,” said Jackalopes head coach Scott Deur.
“Just whatever our PA [public address] guy has got for me,” said Proctor.
Whatever you call him… the native Texan loves playing in Odessa.
“I couldn’t ask for a better place to play hockey,” said Proctor.
“I grew up watching the Jacks play in the CHL [Canadian Hockey League] so it’s a dream come true. This is where I want to be, this is where I always wanted to be.”
And Proctor has been stellar this season between the pipes currently sitting second in Jackalopes history for wins in a season and he’s been integral in the team’s playoff push.
“It starts with him. He’s the one making the big saves for us and he’s the one that’s keeping us in every game,” said Deur.
The only man ahead of him on the wins list? That is none other than Vezina trophy winning goalie Connor Hellebuyck who got his number retired by the Jackalopes on March 26th and is a player Proctor has tried to emulate.
“I think I thought about it more at the beginning of the season, like it wasn’t that long ago that he was right here, on this very ice, playing the same position I play,” said Proctor.
And while Hellebuyck’s influence can be seen all over the Jack Shack on a game night, there’s no shortage of support for Proctor.
“It feels like the big leagues. You see people wearing the shirseys and it just makes me feel right at home.”
And while the young goaltender is still enjoying his time in the Permian Basin, he’s got plenty more of exciting stops ahead of him.
“He’s going to go as far as he wants to go,” said Deur.
But as for leaving his own legacy, Proctor doesn’t want to see Hellebuyck’s number 37 getting lonely.
When asked if his own jersey will be up next, Proctor responded “That’s the hope.” | 2022-04-01T01:59:31Z | www.yourbasin.com | Proctor leaving his mark in Odessa | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/sports/local-sports/proctor-leaving-his-mark-in-odessa/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/sports/local-sports/proctor-leaving-his-mark-in-odessa/ |
UTPB students and university leaders fly into the nation’s capital
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar) – The University of Texas Permian Basin sent 6 students to Washington D.C as a part of the Midland Chamber and Odessa Chamber of Commerce D.C Fly-In. The UTPB students were accompanied by University leaders including University President Sandy Woodley.
Midland Chamber of Commerce and Odessa Chamber of Commerce organized the fly-in through an initiative created by Kate Williamson, the Executive Director of the Shepperd Leadership Institute at UT Permian Basin. Williamson is also the Chair of the Midland Chamber Board of Directors. Shelby Landgraf, the Director of Community Engagement for the Shepperd Leadership Institute at UT Permian Basin was in attendance and she expressed her thought’s on the trip.
“The D.C. Fly-In embodied one of our UT Permian Basin core values: collaboration. We believe in working together to best serve our region, and in considering diverse perspectives while pursuing a positive collective impact. This trip was a visible and tangible expression of that collaborative mindset that guides us.” said Shelby Landgraf.
The joint community initiative showcased UTPB students on Capitol Hill and provided students with a greater understanding of the federal government through a number of special programs during the trip.
The trip’s itinerary included meeting with Former Ambassador to Mexico, Christopher Landau, and U.S Senators John Cornyn & Ted Cruz. From bipartisanship discussion panels with West Texas Congressman August Pfluger, Jodey Arrington, and more to media panel discussions with UTPB Cheif of Staff and Executive Director of Communications Tatum Hubbard; the D.C Fly-in was a learning experience that attendees say they’ll never forget.
“As a first-generation college student, being able to attend the fly-in was an incredible opportunity. It was refreshing to see bipartisan debates rather than the usual media conflicts, as well as meeting the capital’s youth and knowing that the country’s future is in good hands,” said J.P. Chavez, a computer science major and senior at UT Permian Basin. | 2022-04-01T20:06:42Z | www.yourbasin.com | UTPB students and university leaders fly into the nation’s capital | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/utpb-students-and-university-leaders-fly-into-the-nations-capital/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/utpb-students-and-university-leaders-fly-into-the-nations-capital/ |
ECTOR COUNTY, Texas (Nexstar)- The Texas Department of Public Safety has identified a man killed in a crash Thursday morning on Moss Avenue and Third Street. Baldemar Zurita, 61, of Rio Grande City, Texas, was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to DPS, Zurita was involved in an unrelated crash just before he was struck. Following that crash, Zurita exited his vehicle and walked into the southbound lane. Zurita was then hit by another car that was trying to avoid hitting a wrecked vehicle involved in the previous crash. | 2022-04-01T20:48:46Z | www.yourbasin.com | Victim in Moss Avenue crash identified by DPS | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/victim-in-moss-avenue-crash-identified-by-dps/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/victim-in-moss-avenue-crash-identified-by-dps/ |
ECTOR COUNTY, Texas (Nexstar)- The Ector County Sheriff’s Office is asking for help to find a wanted fugitive.
Joseph William Wallace Decker, 34, is wanted for Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon (Family Violence), Evading Arrest, and Theft of Property between $30,000 and $150,000. He has also violated the terms of his bond, according to Crime Stoppers.
Decker, pictured below, is said to be 5’5″ tall and has brown eyes and black hair.
Anyone who knows where Decker can be found is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 432-333-TIPS. If your tip leads to an arrest, it could be worth a cash reward. | 2022-04-01T23:53:38Z | www.yourbasin.com | ECSO searching for wanted fugitive | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/ecso-searching-for-wanted-fugitive/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/ecso-searching-for-wanted-fugitive/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar)- A Midland man is behind bars after police said he assaulted his wife late last month. Jose Felix Portillo, 34, has been charged with Continuous Violence Against the Family.
According to an affidavit, around 1:00 a.m. on March 31, officers with the Midland Police Department responded to a disturbance in the 4300 block of Neely Avenue. At the scene, officers found the victim, and her husband, identified as Portillo. Officers said Portillo was uncooperative and tried to resist being placed in handcuffs.
Once Portillo was secured in a patrol vehicle, officers spoke with the victim who said she was sitting in her cousin’s vehicle in a parking lot of an apartment complex when Portillo came home from work and found her in the vehicle. She said he became angry, and a verbal argument turned into a physical one when Portillo pulled her from the car. The victim said she landed on the ground and injured her elbow in the scuffle. The officer stated in the affidavit there were visible injures to the woman’s arm.
The victim said she didn’t want to press charges, but she did want Portillo out of the house and asked for an Emergency Protective Order. She said Portillo’s behavior was an “on-going issue” and that he has been arrested before for assault.
The officer stated in the affidavit that Portillo was arrested because of “the likelihood of further family violence” that could occur without intervention. Portillo was taken to the Midland County Detention Center where he is being held on a $20,000 bond. | 2022-04-01T23:54:08Z | www.yourbasin.com | Man accused of dragging wife from car | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/man-accused-of-dragging-wife-from-car/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/man-accused-of-dragging-wife-from-car/ |
ECTOR COUNTY, Texas (Nexstar)- On March 31, an Ector County jury found 41-year-old Rondale Gerrod Farris guilty of Murder, Felony Murder, and Engaging in Organized Crime in the 2018 shooting death of Treginale White, 41. Prosecutors said Farris was a felon in illegal possession of a firearm when the shooting occurred and thought to be a gang member.
On Friday, the jury sentenced Farris to 65 years in prison on the Murder charge, 50 years in prison on the Felony Murder, and 20 years in prison on the Engaging in Organized Crime charge.
Police said Farris shot White outside a convenience store in 2700 block of 8th Street on July 13, 2018. Surveillance video from 7-11 showed White dropping to the ground seconds after Farris exited the store.
A warrant for Farris’ arrest was issued later that summer, but Farris was on the run; he was arrested by the U.S. Marshals Service Pacific Southwest Regional Fugitive Task Force in Compton, California in January of 2019 and has been waiting for trial since he was brought back to Texas. | 2022-04-01T23:54:14Z | www.yourbasin.com | Odessa man sentenced to combined 135 years for 2018 murder | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-sentenced-to-combined-135-years-for-2018-murder/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-sentenced-to-combined-135-years-for-2018-murder/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar) – For the last several years, the Ector County Library has faced plumbing issues from busted pipes and electrical issues causing the library to need major renovations.
The Ector County Commissioners Court stepped in to form a committee of stakeholders to improve the facility. In a meeting, last spring members of the committee came to the conclusion that it would take about $15 million dollars to renovate the entire building, and $26 million dollars to build an entirely new building.
Before making any major changes, the Ector County Library board is asking for the public’s opinion on what the next steps should be for improving the quality of the library.
Randy Ham the Executive Director of Odessa Arts expressed the importance of having a library in Downtown Odessa and how renovations can keep the facility up and running.
“A lot of the time the people making decisions about public libraries, may not have to use their services, they have internet at home, access to books, access to programming, access to all of the things that they need but the people that need the library are not in decision-making positions”
In a recent survey, Ham says that data showed that the people who live in the area would like to see the library in a new light, with more community programs and opportunities.
The Ector County Library Board and consulting group the Ivy Group are hosting 2 community forums in different languages for people to voice their opinions on what they think should change.
“We’re gonna ask you questions like what do you think the library’s role in the community is, what do you think of the current location, do you like it downtown or does it need to be somewhere else, do you want a book mobile do you not want a book mobile, should it be several branches i mean nothing is off the table at this point”
Tonight the forum will be held at the Ector County Library at 6:30 pm in English and co-hosted by Odessa Arts, another forum will be held on Tuesday at 6:30 pm in Spanish. | 2022-04-04T16:08:17Z | www.yourbasin.com | Ector County Library asks for input on renovations | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/ector-county-library-asks-for-the-communities-input-on-renovations/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/ector-county-library-asks-for-the-communities-input-on-renovations/ |
Governor Abbott issues emergency disaster declaration for Howard County
HOWARD COUNTY, Texas (Nexstar) – In light of the wildfires across Texas and here locally, Governor Greg Abbott declared a state of Emergency Disaster signed Friday, April 1st for several counties including Howard County.
Recently, fires in Big Spring have caused several people to lose property and have become an issue with the current weather conditions and high winds.
According to the declaration from Governor Greg Abbott, the Proclamation of Disaster signed into order cited an imminent threat of widespread or sever damage, injury, or loss of life or property.
Today, Howard County officially declared an Emergency Disaster Proclamation, and the Howard County Commissioners Court plans to review and reasses conditions come April 11th to decide whether or not to re-issue the proclamation.
Howard County is under a burn ban and will remain so until further notice. | 2022-04-04T16:08:23Z | www.yourbasin.com | Governor Abbott issues emergency disaster declaration for Howard County | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/governor-abbott-issues-emergency-disaster-declaration-for-howard-county/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/governor-abbott-issues-emergency-disaster-declaration-for-howard-county/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar) – Get your popcorn ready! Summer Mummers is back for its 74th season of good laughs and popcorn throwing. The longest continuous melodrama in the United States is looking for volunteers to audition for this year’s show.
According to a post from the Summer Mummer’s Facebook page, this year’s show is titled “GAME OF HOMES – A SONG OF DIRTLAND” or… “I ALWAYS WANTED A PET DRAGON!”.
Whether you join the melodrama, Olio, or audition to be a dancer, Summer Mummers is hosting a kickoff party for newcomers and former members on April 10th from 1-4 pm at the Yucca Theatre.
Auditions to join the West Texas tradition will start after 4 pm the same day as the kickoff party and will continue on April 11th and 12th at 6:30 pm. No experience is required to audition. | 2022-04-04T18:52:47Z | www.yourbasin.com | Summer Mummers to hold auditions for 74th season | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/summer-mummers-to-hold-auditions-for-74th-season/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/summer-mummers-to-hold-auditions-for-74th-season/ |
For ECSO the job is a family affair
ECTOR COUNTY, Texas (Nexstar)- The Ector County Sheriff’s Office is hiring, and while it’s not always an easy job keeping the community safe, it’s clear the ECSO team is a family.
“We’re needing people in the jail…and on the street. We just need people to come out and become part of our family,” said ECSO spokesperson Shirley Hardee.
The Sheriff’s Office held a hiring event last weekend complete with food, music, and fun. It gave the community to see just how tight knit the ECSP team really is. Even if you missed the kid friendly hiring event last weekend, it’s not too late to apply. In fact, the Sheriff is hiring for more than 60 jailers. They are also hiring dispatchers, booking clerks, and nurses. You can apply for those positions and more online.
Sheriff Mike Griffis said, “We need you. We’re just one big family and we want you to join our family.”
He also said the retirement benefits and health insurance available to those working along side him “can’t be beat”. | 2022-04-04T20:03:02Z | www.yourbasin.com | For ECSO the job is a family affair | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/for-ecso-the-job-is-a-family-affair/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/for-ecso-the-job-is-a-family-affair/ |
Neighbors react to officer involved shooting in Midland County
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar) – The Texas Rangers are investigating an officer involved shooting in midland over the weekend. The Texas Rangers said the shooting happened on Saturday and now people in those surrounding neighborhoods are shaken up about this happening so close to home.
Jeff Somers is a resident in the neighborhood close to where the incident occurred. He said the road is pretty busy and he is hoping to find out what happened sooner rather than later.
“It could’ve been random type of shooting if they were shooting at cars or something like that on 307, that’s a busy road so, but let’s just figure out what it is, and what happened and what’s to come,” said Somers.
Texas Rangers said the shooting took place near FM 307 and South County Road 1130, but still haven’t released many details.
They said the shooting did involve a Midland District Attorney’s Office Investigator.
Somers said neighbors near the shooting said they hadn’t known about the incident until the next day when they realized just how close it was to their back yard.
“This is a small community out here in Greenwood, and we usually hear about things if it’s somebody involved in the community apparently it wasn’t because we haven’t heard a word. So like I said, I saw it last night on the news, and I asked my wife about it, I said that’s right down the street from us, real close, and so that’s really all we knew about it, I didn’t know if a person had gotten shot or if they were just shootings so, that’s really all we know about it,” added Somers.
He also said that the area is pretty quiet on a regular basis and for a shooting to happen there is shocking, but it doesn’t change how he feels about the safety of his neighborhood.
As of right now the Texas Rangers said no one was injured or killed during the shooting, and this case is still under investigation. | 2022-04-05T02:30:23Z | www.yourbasin.com | Neighbors react to officer involved shooting in Midland County | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/neighbors-react-to-officer-involved-shooting-in-midland-county/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/neighbors-react-to-officer-involved-shooting-in-midland-county/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar) – Tonight, friends and loved ones are remembering a man who police said died after a motorcycle crash last Friday morning.
Odessa Police said 58-year-old Clyde Frank Morgan was killed after a motorcycle crash on I-20 at FM 1936. Police are still investigating what exactly happened in the crash.
A close friend of Morgan’s, Eva Beckwith, spoke about the tragedy and said she is devastated by this news and wants her friend’s memory to stay alive.
“He would take off and just ride, that was his calming,” said Beckwith.
Beckwith has been friends with Morgan for quite some time now and works at a local restaurant where Morgan was a regular. She said she still cannot even begin to comprehend what has happened to someone so close to her and now realizes life can’t be taken for granted.
“I was shocked, because he had literally just come into our restaurant, the night before. It gives you a whole perspective, not to take the small things for granted, because you never know when, I mean it could be you, it could be someone else, you never know when you’re going to be able to say goodbye, because you know each day is not promise,” said Beckwith.
She said Morgan was one of the kindest people anyone could ever have the pleasure of meeting.
“He never met a stranger, he was always happy and go lucky, he loved to have fun, he loved his family, he loved his friends, he’d give anyone the shirt off his back, he was just a good guy. He never had anything bad to say about anybody, you know,” added Beckwith.
She said Morgan will be missed throughout the entire community, and that she, along with many others, has the Morgan family and all those affected by this tragedy in her thoughts and prayers.
“He’s gonna be greatly missed, by everybody. I send my condolences out to the family, I know a few of them, and I’ve already kind of touched base with them. You know, if they ever need anything, I’m always here for them, whether they know it or not,” emphasized Beckwith.
OPD said because there was such heavy traffic on I-20, there were multiple unknown vehicles involved in this accident, police are asking for anyone who may have been a witness to the accident to contact them with any information about the crash that could help. | 2022-04-05T16:56:35Z | www.yourbasin.com | Deadly motorcycle crash victim remember | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/deadly-motorcycle-crash-victim-remember/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/deadly-motorcycle-crash-victim-remember/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar) -Grab your favorite book, it’s National Library Week! This week the Midland County Public Library is hosting a number of free events and offering resources to the community in celebration of the big week.
National Library Week is observed by the American Library Association and libraries across the globe. Libraries offer a number of resources to people living in the area like access to the internet for students and workers who don’t have access to it at home. The MCPL offers a tutoring resource called Brainfuse HelpNow which provides live tutoring 7 days a week from 2 pm-11 pm for school-age children and adults pursuing further education.
In addition to books, your local library offers resume workshops, tutoring classes, and additional educational programs. In a recent news release, the theme for National Library Week is “Connect with your Library” which allows the community to interact with librarians to get a better understanding of why this week is important.
You can find a list of events hosted by MCPL for National Library Week here. | 2022-04-05T16:57:06Z | www.yourbasin.com | Grab your favorite book! It’s National Library Week | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/grab-your-favorite-book-its-national-library-week/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/grab-your-favorite-book-its-national-library-week/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar) – Monday the Midland Independent School District Board of Trustees approved a budget that allows all district employees to receive a one-time stipend of up to $2,000 to show their appreciation for the staff’s work throughout the school year.
In a news release, Board President Bryan Murry recognized the challenges faced by MISD employees and thanked the district employees for their hard work.
“The past few school years have been tough for everyone, and this year has been no exception,” said Murry. “MISD is nothing without its people, and it’s fitting to use these excess funds as a way to show appreciation for our district employees who have worked so hard to keep the district running. On behalf of the board, we cannot thank them enough for what they do.”
The funds for the stipend are from a 2021 to 2022 budget surplus and legislation adjusting in-person learning funds for this school year. Teachers should receive the stipend by the end of May. | 2022-04-05T16:57:30Z | www.yourbasin.com | MISD to thank employees with stipend | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/misd-to-thank-employees-with-stipend/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/misd-to-thank-employees-with-stipend/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- An Odessa man is behind bars after police said an argument turned physical late last month. Fernando Fernandez, 45, has been charged with Assault/Family Violence, a third-degree felony.
According to an affidavit, on March 24, officers with the Odessa Police Department responded to a home in the 900 block of West University to investigate a disturbance. At the scene, police spoke with the victim who said he’d had an argument with his father, identified as Fernandez. The victim said the verbal argument started when the victim wouldn’t let Fernandez inside his house. He said Fernandez flicked a lit cigarette at him and then punched him several times before leaving the home. The affidavit stated the victim was bloodied and bruised from the assault.
Police then found out that Fernandez had been convicted of assault in 2019 after he strangled a family member. A warrant was issued for Fernandez’s arrest.
On March 31, Fernandez was pulled over in an unrelated traffic stop. At that point, the officer on patrol informed Fernandez of the outstanding warrant. The officer said when he tried to take Fernandez into custody, he refused to exit his truck. An affidavit stated he tried to climb out a window in the vehicle to avoid being arrested. The officer also said Fernandez tensed his arms and tried to pull away when he was handcuffed.
Fernandez was booked into the Ector County Law Enforcement Center where he remains behind bars as of Tuesday morning. He is being held on bonds totaling $18,000. | 2022-04-05T21:40:09Z | www.yourbasin.com | Man flicks lit cigarette, punches son, police say | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/man-flicks-lit-cigarette-punches-son-police-say/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/man-flicks-lit-cigarette-punches-son-police-say/ |
According to an affidavit, on April 3, an officer with the Odessa Police Department was working a special assignment aimed at catching drivers speeding and racing along 42nd Street. While on patrol in the 500 block of E 42nd Street, the officer saw several vehicles rev their engines and take off from a light on Dixie and 42nd Street at a high rate of speed.
“Morning, afternoon, late at night, it doesn’t matter. I hear racing all the time up and down 42nd Street as well as Dawn,” said one homeowner who lives off Dawn. “It’s extremely dangerous. Those streets are way too busy during certain times of the day and the roads are right next to two schools. One wrong move could cause a deadly accident.”
For those looking for a safe, legal way to race, Penwell Knights Raceway offers a better option for drivers. The track has been widely supported by Odessa dad Scott Erwin who lost his son Zackery in a street racing crash in 2014. For more information on Penwell Raceway, including hours of operation, visit this Facebook page. | 2022-04-05T21:40:15Z | www.yourbasin.com | Motorcyclist arrested for street racing, police say | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/motorcyclist-arrested-for-street-racing-police-say/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/motorcyclist-arrested-for-street-racing-police-say/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar)- The Midland Police Department is asking for help from the community to identify a man accused of stealing packages.
According to a Facebook post, the man pictured below has been caught on camera stealing from the porches of several homes in Midland. MPD said the man has been seen leaving in two different vehicles, a blue SUV and a white SUV.
Anyone with information in this case is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 432-694-TIPS and reference case number 220312035. If your tip leads to an arrest, it could be worth a $1,000 cash reward. | 2022-04-05T21:40:21Z | www.yourbasin.com | MPD searching for suspected porch pirate | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/mpd-searching-for-suspected-porch-pirate/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/mpd-searching-for-suspected-porch-pirate/ |
ECTOR COUNTY, Texas (Nexstar)- Ector County ISD offers full-day Prekindergarten for four-year-olds, and a half-day program for three-year-olds. Pre-K Round Up for the 2022-2023 school year is now underway and If you are interested in the program for your child, now is the time to let ECISD know.
Pre-K Round Up is not for registration but is intended to determine the level of interest and the eligibility of children in the community. To see if your child is eligible, or to learn more about ECISD’s Pre-K programs, fill out this online form.
Pre-K students at Lamar Early Education Center | 2022-04-05T21:40:27Z | www.yourbasin.com | Pre-K Round Up underway at ECISD | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/pre-k-round-up-underway-at-ecisd/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/pre-k-round-up-underway-at-ecisd/ |
Reflection Ministries host open house fundraiser
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar) – Reflection Ministries is a local non-profit dedicated to empowering individuals who have been sex-trafficked. The organization provides victims with services like medical, educational, and life-skill therapies to help them get back on their feet.
In a recent news release, Reflection Ministries is hosting its open house in a new location for stakeholders to attend and see first-hand the impact that their work has had on the community.
The event will also feature Teresa and Tristin Criswell, authors of the book ” Daughters of the King”. All proceeds of the book sales will go to the non-profit to help victims. For the safety of the victims, the location cannot be released and this is a private event. | 2022-04-05T21:40:33Z | www.yourbasin.com | Reflection Ministries host open house fundraiser | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/reflection-ministries-host-open-house-fundraiser/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/reflection-ministries-host-open-house-fundraiser/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar) – Midland Police are asking for any help from the community to help find a missing man. MPD said, 25-year-old Nathaniel Machuca was last seen on Sunday morning and was on his way to Andrews, to visit his mom, but his family and police say, he never made it.
Now his friends and family just want him home safe, and as soon as possible.
Machuca’s brother, Jayden Machuca, is stunned by the disappearance of his brother. He said, “out of nowhere he’s just gone, missing, we just don’t know.”
Now Jayden and the rest of his family are scrambling to find any information they can to bring their loved one home.
“It’s very hard, especially for my mom and dad. We’ve actually been searching around and everything, just looking everywhere that we can find, just to find him and hopefully bring him home safe, make sure he’s safe, it’s our main priority,” said Jayden.
He said his brother Nathaniel was never the type to disappear like this, and even said their father taught them when they were young, to always return home.
“Another thing that my dad brought up was, it’s very weird that he went missing, just because even when we were younger, he’s always taught us to always find our way back home, so it’s just super rare for something like this to happen,” added Jayden.
One of Nathaniel’s close friends, Rosa Perez said the same thing, that this was very uncommon of Nathaniel. She just wanted him to know how much he is missed right now and hopes that if he is seeing any of this, that he returns home soon.
Perez emphasized, “We’re worried about you, we love you, we want you to get home safe, you know if anybody knows anything at all, whatever it may be, put yourself in our shoes, in his families shoes, like wouldn’t you want your family to know where you’re at? And just to reach out, you know?”
Nathaniel’s mother, Mary Helen said she’s very distraught by the idea of her son being somewhere she doesn’t know.
She added, “and he knows I get very worried, so that’s why I’m trying to locate him, just to see him, see if he’s okay.”
Mary Helen said she can’t even begin to comprehend what has happened to her son and says that her worst fears have come to life.
A very emotional Mary Helen said through the pain, “that’s my worst nightmare…..I don’t know, I can’t. It hurts, I don’t know. I just want to see him, I just want him.”
The Machuca family is praying for his safe return soon.
“Please baby, if you see this, please call me. We’re worried about you, you’re not in trouble or nothing, just let us know you’re okay, come home,” pleaded Mary Helen.
If at any point you have any information about Machuca or where he might be, call Midland Police immediately. | 2022-04-06T05:20:08Z | www.yourbasin.com | Family and friends in search of missing loved one from Midland | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/family-and-friends-in-search-of-missing-loved-one-from-midland/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/family-and-friends-in-search-of-missing-loved-one-from-midland/ |
by: Ozzy Mora , Madalyn Bierster
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar) – In March, we recognized four remarkable women across the basin. Out of the four, who you nominated, one finalist was chosen — Suzanne Rathbun.
We surprised Rathbun as the winner at her home by celebrating the remarkable difference she has made in the community and generations to come.
A limo was provided by Big John’s Limo Services, flowers from Market Street and a luncheon provided by Librado in Midland. She didn’t know this was coming.
“I was totally shocked when I was nominated and Carol Sullivan … [I] will be in debt for nominating me,” said Rathbun.
Rathbun is a Clinical Associate Academic Advisor at the University of Texas Permian Basin. She has been teaching for more than 20 years.
“She’s just a really inspirational person and I continue to do things with her once a month … great colleague at the university, but also a better person in the community,” said UTPB Associate Professor of Accounting.
Rathbun’s friends said it’s hard to find a board she hasn’t been on or an organization she hasn’t been involved with. Sullivan, who nominated her said there’s no one more fit to have the ‘Remarkable Woman’ title.
“The part that a lot of people don’t know … the things she has done on an individual basis, [for example], we would be out somewhere and somebody would say Suzanne helped me with this … or I would never have graduated if not for Suzanne,” said Sullivan.
Rathbun also received a makeover. Her hair was provided by Mint Salon in Midland and she got a new outfit by Dillard’s. All to make her feel truly as remarkable as everyone knows she is.
Her message at the end of the day is to inspire others in our community to strive to be remarkable women as well.
“Be involved in your community, it doesn’t have to be a specific thing just be involved in your community,” said Rathbun. “Find your passion, it can be picking up trash … it can be helping Big Brothers Big Sisters [of America] … Boys and Girls Club.”
She hopes more people will feel encouraged to volunteer.
To learn more about Suzanne Rathbun, click here.
To read more the Permian Basin’s Remarkable Women for 2022, click here. | 2022-04-06T05:20:14Z | www.yourbasin.com | Meet the winner: Suzanne Rathbun | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/meet-the-winner-suzanne-rathbun/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/meet-the-winner-suzanne-rathbun/ |
Sul Ross State University opens online bookstore to reduce student cost
ALPINE, Texas (Nexstar) – It’s a new era for students attending Sul Ross State University. On Tuesday, the university announced that its four campuses are launching a new initiative that will reduce the cost and accessibility of course materials through an online platform titled Akademos.
The platform Akademos will allow the university to create an online bookstore for more than 2,000 students. By having this collaboration, students have access to digital materials and all required textbooks as well as course materials.
Sul Ross State University President Pete Gallo expressed in a news release the importance of creating a more affordable option of course materials for students.
“A core value at SRSU is to take students from where they are to where they want to be,” said Gallego.
“By streamlining the process of buying materials while also expanding choice and access to more affordable options, we can ensure the next generation of leaders are prepared and set up for success from day one.”
The news release states that a survey conducted with more than 22,000 college students found that the cost of textbooks impacted the student’s success in a negative way. Inflation has had a major impact on the cost of items including the amount of money spent to make a textbook. According to the release, across the nation, the cost of textbooks currently supersedes the cost of most consumer goods.
To reduce the costs of traditionally high out-of-pocket costs for course materials, Sul Ross State University is working alongside Akademos. The CEO of Akademos shared why the company decided to team up with the university.
“Students are experiencing increased financial hardship and strain and are often forced to forego purchasing the materials they need to learn and thrive,” said Raj Kaji, CEO of Akademos. “Sul Ross State University’s innovative approach to course materials will help make possible a high-quality, affordable educational experience for all of their students.”
Although the online store is launching, the on-campus store opens for merchandise and apparel as well as operates as a hub for online pickup orders. | 2022-04-06T16:34:28Z | www.yourbasin.com | Sul Ross State University opens online bookstore to reduce student cost | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/sul-ross-state-university-opens-online-bookstore-to-reduce-student-cost/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/sul-ross-state-university-opens-online-bookstore-to-reduce-student-cost/ |
April marks National Distracted Driving Awareness month
PERMIAN BASIN, Texas (Nexstar) – TxDOT says that the 2 leading causes of accidents in the state of Texas are speeding and distracted driving, with construction zones being a common area where accidents happen.
From big cities to rural areas, AAA reported that from 2019 to 2021 the number of people killed by distracted drivers has increased. In 2021, more than 26,000 crashes happened in work zones across the state. According to AAA distracted driving has the same deadly consequences as drinking and driving.
Texas Department of Insurance shares lists several types of distractions people experience while driving:
To better understand the dangers of distracted driving, AAA worked alongside the Houston Police to produce a documentary titled “Sidetracked”. The documentary shows that taking your eyes off the road for a few seconds could be a matter of life or death.
You can learn more about the dangers of distracted driving here | 2022-04-06T20:47:04Z | www.yourbasin.com | April marks National Distracted Driving Awareness month | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/april-marks-national-distracted-driving-awareness-month/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/april-marks-national-distracted-driving-awareness-month/ |
Man arrested for sending sexual messages to kids on Snapchat, police say
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar)- A Midland man is behind bars after police said he used Snapchat to send explicit messages to two young girls. Kevin Lemont Dennis, 21, of Midland, has been charged with two counts of Online Solicitation of a Minor.
According to an arrest affidavit, on April 1, an officer with the Midland Police Department responded to a disturbance in the 1200 block of E Wadley Avenue. At the scene, officers met with a man who said he had been in a fight with another man, later identified as Dennis, over texts Dennis sent to his daughter. The officer arrested Dennis at the scene because he had two outstanding warrants for Burglary and Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle.
Dennis was taken to the Midland County Detention Center where he was interviewed by officers after they discovered Dennis was accused of sending inappropriate messages from his phone. Specifically, Dennis was accused of sending explicit Snapchat messages asking for sex to a 12-year-old and a 14-year-old, the affidavit stated.
At first, Dennis denied sending the messages by telling officers he was not the only one with access to his phone. However, Dennis did consent to a search of his phone and officers found evidence of messages that were sent to the two young girls on March 24th and March 25th.
Dennis was still in jail as of Wednesday afternoon, he is being held on a combined bond of $70,000. | 2022-04-06T20:47:34Z | www.yourbasin.com | Man arrested for sending sexual messages to kids on Snapchat, police say | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/man-arrested-for-sending-sexual-messages-to-kids-on-snapchat-police-say/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/man-arrested-for-sending-sexual-messages-to-kids-on-snapchat-police-say/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar)- The Midland Police Department arrested a woman earlier this month after they said she was drunk behind the wheel. Felicya Gomez, 32, has been charged with Driving While Intoxicated with a Child Under the Age of 15.
According to an arrest affidavit, around 7:45 a.m. on April 1, officers were dispatched to the area of Kansas and Bird to investigate a disturbance over a crash. At the scene, officers found two vehicles involved in the crash. One driver, identified as Gomez, was found to be at fault; police said she ran a stop sign at the intersection.
The officer stated in the affidavit that Gomez smelled of alcohol and had slow speech, bloodshot eyes, and couldn’t walk because she kept losing her balance. The officer conducted a sobriety test, which Gomez had trouble completing.
Gomez was taken to the hospital for medical clearance and then booked into the Midland County Jail, she was later released on a $25,000 bond.
Gomez’s passenger, a 15-year-old child, and the occupants of the other vehicle were uninjured in the crash. | 2022-04-06T23:49:55Z | www.yourbasin.com | Drunk driver causes early morning crash, police say | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/drunk-driver-causes-early-morning-crash-police-say/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/drunk-driver-causes-early-morning-crash-police-say/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (Nexstar)- The Midland Police Department is asking for help from the community to identify a man accused of stealing. According to a Facebook post, on March 22, the man picture below walked out of Sam’s Club without paying for more than $1,700 worth of electronics.
Anyone who recognizes this suspect is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 432-694-TIPS and reference case number 220324042. If your tip leads to an arrest, it could be worth a $1,000 cash reward. | 2022-04-06T23:50:07Z | www.yourbasin.com | MPD investigating Sam’s Club theft | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/mpd-investigating-sams-club-theft/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/mpd-investigating-sams-club-theft/ |
ECTOR COUNTY, Texas (Nexstar)- An Odessa man was found guilty of murder by an Ector County jury Wednesday. Clinton Tyrone Saunders has been sentenced to 10 years behind bars.
Saunders was arrested in February of 2021 after the Odessa Police Department responded to a “shots fired” call in the 9000 block of Ratliff Ridge Avenue. Officers later found the body of Mario Castillo, 38, in the 1000 block of east 90th Street.
An affidavit revealed Saunders and Castillo worked together at a truck stop. The co-workers went to a bar together where the two got into an argument. The affidavit stated the fight escalated in Castillo’s car after leaving the bar. Castillo was shot seven times, including twice in the heart outside his home. | 2022-04-06T23:50:13Z | www.yourbasin.com | Odessa man sentenced to 10 years for murder | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-sentenced-to-10-years-for-murder/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/odessa-man-sentenced-to-10-years-for-murder/ |
Odessa, Texas (Nexstar)- Odessa Fire Rescue responded to a grass fire off I-20 around 3:20 Wednesday afternoon. Three units responded to the industrial area off the Interstate 20 Service Road a little west of West County Road.
According to a City spokesperson, the “slow moving” grass fire has burned about five acres so far. No structures are threatened at this time. However, drivers on the service road are urged to use caution as crews remain on the scene.
Earlier this week The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for all of West Texas and Southeast New Mexico because of a combination of strong winds, high temperatures and little to no rainfall. NWS advised people living in the Basin to avoid using any open flames or participating in any activities that could spark a fire. | 2022-04-06T23:50:19Z | www.yourbasin.com | OFR on scene of grass fire in Odessa | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/ofr-on-scene-of-grass-fire-in-odessa/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/ofr-on-scene-of-grass-fire-in-odessa/ |
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- The Odessa Police Department is asking for help from the community to find a missing man. Edward “Eddie” Adams, 54, was last seen on April 1.
According to OPD, Adams is 5’7″ tall and weighs about 250 pounds. He has brown hair and green eyes. Adams might be driving a 2016 red Ford Focus with four doors and a hatchback bearing Texas license plate KVC0539.
Anyone who sees Adams is asked to call Detective Gonzales at 432-335-4926 or Crime Stoppers at 432-333-TIPS and reference case number 22-0005405. | 2022-04-06T23:50:25Z | www.yourbasin.com | OPD searching for missing man | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/opd-searching-for-missing-man-6/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/opd-searching-for-missing-man-6/ |
ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- An Odessa man is behind bars after police said he was caught stealing from Walmart. Jason Rae Lemoine, 39, has been charged with Theft.
According to an affidavit, on April 1, officers with the Odessa Police Department responded to Walmart at 2450 NW Loop 338 after employees said they caught a man with a backpack full of unpaid merchandise. A Loss Prevention employee said he saw the suspect, later identified as Lemoine, driving a motorized cart through a sporting goods aisle. Lemoine grabbed about $225.00 worth of goods from the section and then drove over to the hardware aisle where he filled his backpack.
The employee said Lemoine then exited the store without paying. Employees confronted Lemoine outside the store and the merchandise was recovered, however, the employee said he wanted to press charges on behalf of the big box store.
When officers spoke with Lemoine, he admitted to the theft and admitted that wasn’t his first time stealing. In fact, jail records indicated that Lemoine was charged with Credit Card Abuse in October of 2000. He was charged with Theft by Check in April of 2004 and again faced the same charge in January of 2005. In 2017, he was charged with Burglary. Then, in January of last year, he was charged with Organized Retail Theft resulting in losses of more than $30,000.
Lemoine was taken to the Ector County Law Enforcement Center where he remained as of Thursday afternoon. His bond was set at a combined $25,500. | 2022-04-07T23:18:19Z | www.yourbasin.com | Repeat offender admits to Walmart theft | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/repeat-offender-admits-to-walmart-theft/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/repeat-offender-admits-to-walmart-theft/ |
ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- A man is behind bars after police said he was drunk behind the wheel and fell asleep in the middle of an intersection. Juan Silva, 29, has been charged with Driving While Intoxication with at least two previous DWI convictions. He has also been charged with Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon.
According to an arrest affidavit, around 3:30 in the morning on April 4, an officer with the Odessa Police Department found Silva passed out behind the wheel of a Ford F-350 truck in the middle of the intersection of N Grandview Avenue and E Yukon Road. The officer stated the vehicle was stopped in the intersection and that the vehicle was still in drive. Silva’s foot was resting on the brake.
The officer said when he woke Silva from his nap, he saw Silva hide a pistol between the driver’s seat and the center console, hence the weapons charge.
Silva then exited the vehicle and was placed under arrest. He was taken to the Ector County Law Enforcement Center where he remained as of Thursday evening. His bond has been set at $16,500. | 2022-04-08T00:31:57Z | www.yourbasin.com | Suspected drunk driver falls asleep behind the wheel | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/suspected-drunk-driver-falls-asleep-behind-the-wheel/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/suspected-drunk-driver-falls-asleep-behind-the-wheel/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- A Midland Police Officer was injured Thursday night during a traffic stop, according to a City spokesperson.
While details are limited at this time, MPD has confirmed that an officer attempted to pull a driver over in the area of Annette and Midland Drive. That driver tried to drive away and an officer was injured in the process.
The injured officer has been taken to an area hospital for medical treatment. The driver, who has not been identified, has been arrested.
Viewers who live in the area said several neighborhood streets have been blocked by police for more than an hour. And MPD is asking drivers to avoid Midland Drive and Thomason southbound. Roads in the area will be closed to traffic for the next few hours. | 2022-04-08T03:57:27Z | www.yourbasin.com | MPD officer injured during traffic stop | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/mpd-officer-injured-during-traffic-stop/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/mpd-officer-injured-during-traffic-stop/ |
ECTOR COUNTY, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- Medical Center Hospital announced Friday it is increasing pay rates for all current and future patient-facing nurses and respiratory therapists. These increases will make MCH’s starting pay the highest in the region for nurses and respiratory therapists.
“With the staffing shortages we’re seeing amid the past two years, we saw the desperate need to invest more in our own staff and attract new and quality employees,” said Christin Timmons, Chief Nursing Officer, Medical Center Health System. “We will never fully be able to repay our staff for what they have been through the past two years, but these dramatic pay adjustments are a start. We have the best staff here at MCH and we want them to feel secure and appreciated.”
MCH is also implementing a 3-percent pay increase for all staff (clinical and non-clinical) who have been with the health system for at least six months, as scheduled, starting April 1. In addition to the salary increase, MCHS will be raising its minimum wage to $14 per hour. This was approved by the Ector County Hospital Board of Directors last year during the annual budgeting process.
“We know the most valued asset in healthcare is our staff,” said Russell Tippin, CEO & President, Medical Center Health System. “That has never been more apparent than during the past two years. We want Medical Center Hospital to be proactive in keeping and attracting the top-level talent needed to be the main source for health in West Texas. These pay adjustments are well deserved and we appreciate the Board of Directors for recognizing the need to insure we have appropriate staffing to meet our community’s health needs.”
In total, with the pay adjustments and rate increases, Medical Center Health System is investing approximately $8 million dollars in its staff to make sure the community has access to quality healthcare. | 2022-04-08T20:24:48Z | www.yourbasin.com | MCH to raise pay for all staff | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/mch-to-raise-pay-for-all-staff/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/mch-to-raise-pay-for-all-staff/ |
ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- An Odessa man is behind bars after police said he assaulted his girlfriend earlier this week. Edmundo Cobos III, 20, has been charged with Assault by Strangulation.
According to an arrest affidavit, around 8:15 p.m. on April 4, officers with the Odessa Police Department responded to an apartment in the 5000 block of Tanglewood Lane to investigate an assault. At the scene, police made contact with a victim who said she’d be strangled by her boyfriend.
The victim said she and her boyfriend, identified as Cobos, were showering when an argument about a past relationship broke out. The victim said she exited the shower, but Cobos continued to argue. The affidavit stated he then followed her out of the shower and grabbed her by the throat.
She told police she was unable to breathe as Cobos maintained his hold around her throat while pushing her out of the bathroom, down the hallway, and into the bedroom. In the bedroom, Cobos released her neck and then returned to the bathroom to continue his shower.
Later, when the victim returned to the bathroom to get her clothes, she said Cobos grabbed her by the arm and pushed her to the floor. Cobos then dressed and left the apartment.
While officers were speaking with the victim, Cobos returned to the apartment. He told officers he didn’t choke his girlfriend, but did admit to pushing her. However, officers said the victim had visible marks to her neck.
Cobos was taken to the Ector County Law Enforcement Center where he remained as of Friday afternoon. His bond has been set at $15,000. | 2022-04-08T20:25:18Z | www.yourbasin.com | Shower argument leads to arrest | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/shower-argument-leads-to-arrest/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/shower-argument-leads-to-arrest/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- A teen is behind bars after police said he assaulted an officer during a traffic stop. Phillip Aden Bates, 17, has been charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon.
According to a news release from the Midland Police Department, around 8:55 p.m. on April 7, officers were dispatched to the 4500 block of Brookdale Drive after someone in the neighborhood called to report a person sitting in a car in an alleyway.
An officer tried to speak with the driver, later identified as Bates, but Bates drove away. While trying to stop Bates, the officer got caught up with the suspect’s vehicle and was unable to detach from the car. Bates then continued to drive northbound on Midland Drive, dragging the officer.
At that point, the officer fired his weapon. Bates eventually stopped his car and was taken into custody.
Despite information released Thursday night by an MPD spokesperson, the officer was not injured in the incident nor was the suspect injured in the shooting.
As is the case with all officer involved shootings, the Texas Rangers have taken over the investigation.
Bates was still in custody as of Friday afternoon. We have requested an affidavit as well as a mug shot, those were not yet available. Bond for Bates has not been set. | 2022-04-08T20:25:36Z | www.yourbasin.com | Teen charged with assaulting MPD officer | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/teen-charged-with-assaulting-mpd-officer/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/teen-charged-with-assaulting-mpd-officer/ |
RRC says H2S levels at Boehmer Lake not as high as reported by some media outlets
AUSTIN (KMID/KPEJ)- Recently some media outlets reported that a water well believed to be the source of Boehmer Lake in Pecos County in West Texas has been releasing unusually high amounts of hydrogen sulfide. However, those reports, according to the Texas Railroad Commission, may not be accurate.
The RRC said it has not received any information to support these claims.
In a release, the RRC said, “The reports state that readings as high as 14,000 parts per million were recorded at the site. Levels above 700 ppm would mean sudden unconsciousness and above 1,000 ppm would result in nearly instant death, according to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.” | 2022-04-08T23:13:14Z | www.yourbasin.com | RRC says H2S levels at Boehmer Lake not as high as reported by some media outlets | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/rrc-says-h2s-levels-at-boehmer-lake-not-as-high-as-reported-by-some-media-outlets/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/rrc-says-h2s-levels-at-boehmer-lake-not-as-high-as-reported-by-some-media-outlets/ |
MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) – The Texas Rangers are investigating an officer-involved shooting in Midland.
The city of Midland said in a press release, MPD officers were dispatched to the 4500 block of Brookdale Drive on Thursday night around 8:55 P.M.
A neighbor in the area initially called police about a car sitting in the alleyway, just north of Brookdale Drive.
The release said an officer attempted to speak with the driver of the 2006 black Ford Fusion. Police said the driver, later identified as 17-year-old Phillip Aden Bates, attempted to leave the scene.
While the officer tried stopping Bates from leaving, the MPD officer became physically attached to the suspect’s car and was unable to detach.
The release said the teenage driver turned northbound from the alleyway onto Midland Drive, dragging the officer.
During the struggle, the officer fired several rounds. No one was hit by gunfire. Bates stopped his car and was arrested.
The release said the officer, nor the driver, were hurt. As a precaution, the officer was taken to the hospital.
Bates, 17, is being charged with Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon. | 2022-04-09T01:43:30Z | www.yourbasin.com | Driver, 17, arrested after dragging officer: Midland PD | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/local-news/midland-driver-17-arrested-after-dragging-officer-during-traffic-stop/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/local-news/midland-driver-17-arrested-after-dragging-officer-during-traffic-stop/ |
Son punches mom for saying he needs to ‘clean up his act’, police say
ODESSA, Texas (Nexstar)- An Odessa man with a history of family violence is behind bars after police said he attacked his mom. Amron Robinson, 25, has been charged with Assault/Family Violence.
According to an arrest affidavit, on March 18, officers with the Odessa Police Department responded to the 700 block of E Pearl Street to investigate a family disturbance. At the scene, investigators met with a woman who said her son, identified as Robinson, had punched her after she told him he needed to “get off drugs and clean up his act”. Officers said the victim had visible injuries from the assault.
Investigators discovered Robinson had been convicted of a similar assault in 2015, due to his history of similar crimes, an arrest warrant was issued late that day. Robinson was taken into custody on April 7 and booked into the Ector County Law Enforcement Center where he remained as of Monday afternoon on a $15,000 bond.
According to jail records, Robinson has been arrested multiple times since 2014 for crimes such as Public Intoxication, Theft, Burglary, Family Violence, Trespassing, and Parole Violation. | 2022-04-11T20:59:05Z | www.yourbasin.com | Son punches mom for saying he needs to ‘clean up his act’, police say | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/son-punches-mom-for-saying-he-needs-to-clean-up-his-act-police-say/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/news/son-punches-mom-for-saying-he-needs-to-clean-up-his-act-police-say/ |
The city of Pharr issued a state statement about 3 p.m. Monday saying that the Pharr International Bridge was “ready and open for business.” But Pharr police officers remained at the foot of the bridge blocking all southbound traffic at 4 p.m. Monday, and no commercial traffic was making its way north. | 2022-04-11T20:59:24Z | www.yourbasin.com | Mexican truckers block access to Pharr port of entry in protest of Texas truck inspections | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/political/mexican-truckers-block-access-to-pharr-port-of-entry-in-protest-of-texas-truck-inspections/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/political/mexican-truckers-block-access-to-pharr-port-of-entry-in-protest-of-texas-truck-inspections/ |
ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) – The City of Odessa Parks and Recreation department opened registration for their flag football league for the 2022 season.
The deadline to register is April 27th.
The season begins on Sunday May 1st with games beginning at 2:00 P.M. each Sunday through June 5th with the games being held at the Comanche East Complex located at 1201 W. Monahans St. in Odessa.
The games will be 8-on-8 with no more than 20 players on each team. The cost for each team is $300.
After an eight-game season, there will be a double elimination tournament at the end of the season to determine a champion.
If you want more information you can visit the Parks and Recreation website HERE or contact Martha Cortazar at 432-335-4836. | 2022-04-12T00:11:51Z | www.yourbasin.com | City of Odessa announces 2022 flag football dates | Yourbasin | https://www.yourbasin.com/sports/local-sports/city-of-odessa-announces-2022-flag-football-dates/ | https://www.yourbasin.com/sports/local-sports/city-of-odessa-announces-2022-flag-football-dates/ |
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