🌱 OPD Need Help Identifying Suspect + Iraq War Vet Receives New Car

Hey, everybody! It's me, Danielle Fallon-O'Leary, your host of the Odessa-Midland Patch newsletter — here to explain all the most important things happening in town these days.

But first, your local weather:

• Friday: Partly sunny and hot. High: 105 Low: 79.
• Saturday: Hot; breezy in the afternoon. High: 106 Low: 76.

From our sponsor:

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Here are the top three stories in Odessa-Midland today:

1. The Odessa Police Department is seeking assistance from the community in identifying a man who is accused of theft. The incident occurred at Hobby Lobby, where the unidentified man allegedly stole approximately $220 worth of merchandise before leaving in a small white SUV. Individuals who recognize the suspect are encouraged to contact Detective Troglin or Crime Stoppers with any information that may help in solving the case, and there may be a cash reward for tips leading to an arrest. (Your Basin)
2. In a ceremony at the All American Chevrolet of Odessa dealership, Iraq War veteran Army Specialist David Dale was presented with keys to a new car. The vehicle was donated through a partnership between the dealership, the Military Warriors Support Foundation, and Wells Fargo as part of the "Transportation 4 Heroes" program. The event took place on Flag Day and coincided with the celebration of the US Army's birthday, adding extra significance to the occasion. (News West 9)
3. During the ECISD Board of Trustees meeting, district officials presented a plan to increase staff salaries, including a three percent raise for all district employees and a higher starting salary of $60,600 per year for teachers. Superintendent Dr. Scott Muri emphasized that investing in teachers is essential for attracting and retaining talented educators. The Board of Trustees will vote on the proposed pay raise during their upcoming meeting on Jun. 20. (News West 9)

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Today and tomorrow in Odessa-Midland:

Friday, June 16

• Live Music Fridays At SIDE Bar (6:00 PM)

Saturday, June 17

• Professional Women's Relaxation Conference At Odessa Marriott Hotel & Conference Center (8:00 AM)
• Odessa's Got Talent At The Ector Theater (7:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• The city of Midland and Odessa are working together to find a veterinarian to service both of the city's animal shelters. You can watch council member Greg Connell speak about the issue here. (City of Odessa, TX via Facebook)
• Odessa College is accepting applications for its Positively OC Presidential Scholarship! You can apply here. (Odessa College via Facebook)
• REMINDER - Midland Police Department will be holding testing on Jun. 17 for the academy. This involves a written and physical exam. You can learn more here. (Midland Police Department via Facebook)

Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Friday! See you all soon for your next update.

— Danielle Fallon-O'Leary

About me: Danielle Fallon-O’Leary is a content manager with content creation agency Lightning Media Partners and assists Patch.com with community newsletter curation. Danielle also holds a Master’s Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and works part-time as a pediatric speech therapist.