🌱 Two Ector County Teachers Recognized + Fun In Sun Car Show Returns

Good morning, neighbors! It's Monday in Odessa-Midland and I'm back in your inbox with everything you need to know about what's happening in our community today.

But first, your local weather:

• Monday: Sunshine and very warm. High: 97 Low: 67.
• Tuesday: Breezy; an afternoon t-storm. High: 92 Low: 65.

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

1. The Ector County Independent School District recognized Lornalyn De Leon as the Secondary Teacher of the Year and Marti Smith as the Elementary Teacher of the Year. De Leon, a science teacher at New Tech Odessa, specializes in biology and neuroscience, while Marti Smith, a math teacher at Ireland Elementary, teaches fifth grade. Both teachers were awarded a trophy by the district and received $1,000 from the Education Foundation of Odessa. (Your Basin)
2. Midland College recently held events to acknowledge the creative accomplishments of students in fine arts and communications. The college honored students in various writing categories, including feature stories, narrative nonfiction, and essays/reports, with winners announced for each category. Additionally, the college recognized the finalists of the Hilda Simmons Levitt Poetry Contest, with cash prizes awarded to the top four poets and their works set to be published in the Midland College literary magazine. You can see the full list of recipients at the link. (Odessa American)
3. The annual Fun in the Sun Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Show will be making its way back to Odessa this summer for its eighth year in a row. CAF Desert Squadron will present the show midway through the summer on Jul. 15 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at 411 E. Yukon Road. During the show, attendees will see trophies presented for first and second place as well as Best Paint, Best Engine, Best Interior, and Best in Show. (Odessa American)

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Today and tomorrow in Odessa-Midland:

Monday, May 8

• Adult Coloring Group - Centennial Library (3:00 PM)

Tuesday, May 9

• Wine Tasting & Grazing Table Event - Hoop And Barrel (6:00 PM)

In partnership with T-Mobile:

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From my notebook:

• Local Odessan musician Eric Baker, known for his involvement in the West Texas Jazz Society, was recently captured in a mural painted by artists Koda and Croix Witsken. The mural showcases Odessa's recognition as a Music Friendly Community, a designation received in 2022, highlighting the city's commitment to fostering its art scene. Mural Fest, where the artwork will be featured, is scheduled for May 13. (City of Odessa, Texas via Facebook)
• The Odessa Police Department held its 10th annual Bustin For Badges event earlier this week where participants enjoyed lots of food, fun, and clay shooting. The department thanked all of its sponsors, volunteers, and attendees for continuing to support the local agencies. (Odessa Police Department via Facebook)
• Last week, students at Gonzales Elementary challenged Ector County officers to a friendly game of tug of war. To no one's surprise, the students came away with the victory with a bit of help from Chase the mascot! (Ector County ISD Police Department)

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Featured events:

• College Planning and Financial Aid Webinar (May 9)

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Monday off right. I'll see you back in your inbox soon with another 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.