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Israeli strikes in Gaza kill 3 children and 6 adults, health officials say

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Israeli strikes in Gaza City on Saturday killed at least nine Palestinians, including three children, hospital officials said. A strike on an apartment in the Nasr neighborhood killed at least five people, including the children between the ages o...

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 18, 2026

News

THE ECONOMIST: The five-year outlook for the Texas economy

Even with current challenges and uncertainty, our latest projections call for significant growth in the Texas economy over the next five years. The current environment involves notable potential for volatility, but the state is well positioned for ongoing expansion. (We’ve discus...

Odessa American (oaoa.com)Jul 18, 2026

News

One Tech Tip: How to soothe thumb pain when texting and scrolling

By ADITHI RAMAKRISHNAN AP Science Writer NEW YORK Do your hands hurt when you use your phone? All that texting and scrolling might be stressing out your fingers. The term texting thumb can describe a wide range of phone-related pains caused by tired-out tendons and achy joints —...

Odessa American (oaoa.com)Jul 18, 2026

business

You just retired (or are about to). Now what?

By CHRISTINE BENZ of Morningstar If there’s one group likely to be experiencing the most consternation over inflation and economic uncertainty, it’s those who have just retired or are about to. To make it through this period with their sanity intact, they should focus on what th...

Odessa American (oaoa.com)Jul 18, 2026

News

HOLLAND: Dreams are empowered with perseverance

By William F. Holland Jr. Ph.D. Ordained/Licensed Christian minister Disappointment is a familiar feeling, especially to the ambitious. The more a person strives, the more failures they will face, but this doesn’t mean that every door is always locked. Learning self-control and p...

Odessa American (oaoa.com)Jul 18, 2026

News

Venezuela earthquakes death toll surpasses 5,000

CARACAS (AP) — The death toll from the two powerful earthquakes that shook Venezuela last month rose to 5,069 late on Friday, local authorities said. The interim government of President Delcy Rodriguez added in a statement that the number of injured remains unchanged at 16,740, a...

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 18, 2026

News

Called to ministry, Latina leaders are reshaping the United Methodist Church in Texas

The Rev. Martha Valencia baptizes an individual outside of Elmwood-El Buen Samaritano United Methodist Church in Dallas. (Photo Courtesy of Martha Valencia) By Ellie Ashby, The Texas Tribune The Rev. Rosedanny Ortiz, a Puerto Rican pastor now based in Texas, felt alone and uncert...

Odessa American (oaoa.com)Jul 18, 2026

Local

LANDGRAF: Continuing the fight for Texas STRONG

By State Rep. Brooks Landgraf Recent events around the world have once again reminded us that energy security is national security. When global energy markets face uncertainty, America depends on places like the Permian Basin to provide the reliable energy that powers our economy...

Odessa American (oaoa.com)Jul 18, 2026

News

HART: Maine, a political Rorschach test

Spending time in Maine this month, it occurs to me, it is just like other states. It has a flag, people, and divided politics. I have absorbed the state’s entire political philosophy: form a committee to investigate having a committee, postpone the decision until mud season is ov...

Odessa American (oaoa.com)Jul 18, 2026

safety

Massive fire destroys 100 homes in Norway and forces hundreds to evacuate

DRAMMEN, Norway (AP) — A major fire in southern Norway destroyed more than 100 homes Friday and forced hundreds of people to evacuate the area, according to police and the country's public broadcaster. The blaze started in a townhouse in the city of Drammen around 3:30 p.m. Frida...

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 18, 2026

parks

Kuwait says Iran has struck a water desalination plant, the second such attack in 2 days

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Kuwait’s Ministry of Water and Electricity said Saturday a water desalination and power generation plant was struck by Iran, sparking a blaze. It was the second time in two days that Iran targeted a water desalination infrastructure in the Gulf ...

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 18, 2026

government

Rescuers race to find survivors in the rain after a landslide in China kills at least 8

CHONGQING, China (AP) — Rescue crews on Saturday raced to find survivors from a landslide in the southwestern Chinese city of Chongqing that killed at least eight people and left 34 missing. The landslide occurred in Pengshui County on Friday morning on the outskirts of Chongqing...

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 18, 2026

schools

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL: Rodriguez signs for Angelo State

Former Odessa High standout Andrew Rodriguez won’t be too far away from home when he plays college football. The former Broncho wide receiver, who graduated in May, has signed on to play for the Angelo State Rams. Rodriguez signed his letter of intent during a ceremony Friday. He...

Odessa American (oaoa.com)Jul 18, 2026

parks

7/17/2026: 7-day forecast +3, rain chances decrease as sunny weather makes a return

ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) - (7/17/2026) Here’s your 7-Day Forecast +3 from Chief Forecaster Horace Brown. “A sluggish little mid-level swirl overhead will spark scattered showers and storms this weekend, but summer says, “hold my sweet tea!” As the hot and dry weather returns nex...

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 17, 2026

schools

Midland Community Theater showcases youth talent in musical

MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) – This week, Midland Community Theater put on Little Women the Musical with the help of the Pickwick Program. The program allows young actors from seventh grade up to the end of high school. Director of Education for Midland Community Theater, Emma Even...

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 17, 2026

News

Midland warns residents of scam involving fake sheriff’s office calls

MIDLAND, Texas (KOSA) - The City of Midland is warning residents about a potential scam involving individuals posing as members of the Sheriff’s Office.According to the city, scammers are contacting residents by phone and sending official-looking documents claiming the recipient ...

CBS7 / KOSA-TV News (firstalert7.com)Jul 17, 2026

safety

Odessa police investigate scene near regional medical center

ODESSA, Texas (KOSA) - Odessa police are investigating a scene on 8th Street near Odessa Regional Medical Center, according to viewer video obtained Friday.The video, recorded near the intersection of 8th Street and Coleman, shows a heavy police presence in the area. Officers in ...

CBS7 / KOSA-TV News (firstalert7.com)Jul 17, 2026

parks

City seeks community input on Progressive Park renovations

The City of Odessa Parks and Recreation Department is inviting residents to help shape the future of Progressive Park by participating in a community survey. Community feedback will help identify the improvements that matter most as renovation plans move forward. Please take a fe...

Odessa American (oaoa.com)Jul 17, 2026

safety

Heavy police presence reported in Odessa investigation

ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) - According to recent posts on social media, there is a heavy police presence on 8th Street and Pittsburg Ave. Witnesses have told us that it appeared law enforcement found "many bags," pulled them out, and searched through them. We have reached out to l...

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 17, 2026

Local

Low-cost dog baths and vaccine event in Odessa

ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) – Take your dirty dog for a bath, nail trim, and vaccination in Odessa this weekend; all available at a low price. The Humane Society of Odessa says they’re hosting a public event for pets’ vaccine and grooming needs on Saturday, July 18, at 2230 West Sy...

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 17, 2026

safety

Tank battery fire in Lea County sparks evacuation order

LEA COUNTY, New Mexico - (KMID/KPEJ) - A tank battery fire occurred earlier today in Lea County in the area of Frying Pan Road and Anthony Road. According to the Lea County Facebook page, the established evacuation zone will remain in effect. Jal Fire Department will remain on sc...

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 17, 2026

business

What will Jones AT&T Stadium be called now? Texas Tech signs $75M naming rights deal

LUBBOCK, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) - It's the end of an era for Jones AT&T Stadium in Lubbock. The home of Texas Tech Football is getting a new name as players and fans prepare for the 2026 season. In a $75 million deal, AI company 'Galaxy' will take over naming rights of the venue to be...

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 17, 2026

News

Nigerians in West Texas to host second annual Nigerian Cultural Day in Midland

MIDLAND, Texas (KOSA) - The Nigerians in West Texas organization is hosting its second annual Nigerian Cultural Day on Saturday at the Bush Convention Center.The event recognizes the diverse Nigerian culture and serves as an expression of gratitude to the West Texas region. Organ...

CBS7 / KOSA-TV News (firstalert7.com)Jul 17, 2026

safety

Odessan facing robbery charge

A man accused of stealing the phone of a man who recorded a bar fight with it was arrested and booked into the Ector County jail Friday. According to an Odessa Police Department report, officers were dispatched to Archie’s Place on North Adams around 2 a.m. May 9. When officers a...

Odessa American (oaoa.com)Jul 17, 2026

Local

Cyclosporiasis outbreak linked to Taylor Farms lettuce; Permian Basin responds

ODESSA, Texas (KOSA) - A parasitic outbreak has sickened more than 1,600 people across 30 states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC has confirmed the source as Taylor Farms shredded iceberg lettuce, sold primarily at Taco Bell locations in a han...

CBS7 / KOSA-TV News (firstalert7.com)Jul 17, 2026

Local

Seven Howard College basketball players move to DI programs

BIG SPRING, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) - After winning the NJCAA Men's Basketball Championship, the Howard College Hawks sent 7 players to Division I programs. In 2026, the Hawks went 33-4 overall, winning the WJCAC and the regional tournament at Odessa College. During the tournament, the...

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 17, 2026

schools

Midland College baseball sends 14 players to DI schools after 3rd place finish

MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) - The Midland College baseball team made history in 2026, finishing in third place in the JUCO World Series and sending 14 of its players to DI schools. The Chaps won the WJCAC, and they got to host the first round of the regional tournament, where they...

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 17, 2026

government

New Austin principal looking forward to school year

After 15 years with Ector County ISD, Jessica Moreno is thrilled to be taking on her first head principal job on a familiar campus — Austin Montessori. During their June meeting, the ECISD Board of Trustees voted 6-0 to approve Moreno for the position. Moreno had been assistant p...

Odessa American (oaoa.com)Jul 17, 2026

News

AP PHOTO GALLERY: Catastrophic flooding sweeps across Texas

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Odessa American (oaoa.com)Jul 17, 2026

business

The sell-off for AI stars worsens, while oil prices keep jumping

By STAN CHOE AP Business Writer NEW YORK The sell-off for winners of the artificial-intelligence boom deepened Friday and yanked stock markets lower worldwide. Oil prices, meanwhile, continued to jump because of the war with Iran. The S&P 500 fell 1% to finish its first losing w...

Odessa American (oaoa.com)Jul 17, 2026

safety

Tall City Memorial Stair Climb and Benefit Concert marks 25 years

MIDLAND This September, Midland will gather to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks by honoring the 411 firefighters, law enforcement officers, and EMS personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice while saving others. The Tall City Memorial S...

Odessa American (oaoa.com)Jul 17, 2026

business

Texas Tech football stadium renamed to Galaxy Stadium in 15-year deal

LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - Texas Tech Athletics announced a 15-year naming rights agreement with Galaxy that will rebrand its football stadium as Galaxy Stadium beginning with the 2026 season. Galaxy is a global technology and financial services company focused on data center and in...

CBS7 / KOSA-TV News (firstalert7.com)Jul 17, 2026

parks

Midland Airport sees fewer passengers, parking revenue up

Passenger totals at Midland International Air and Space Port fell to 64,499 in June 2026, an 8.27% decrease from the previous year, while fiscal year-to-date parking revenue rose slightly to $6,618,168....

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 17, 2026

safety

New Mexico fire departments respond to tank battery fire in Lea County

LEA COUNTY, New Mexico (KOSA) - Emergency crews are on scene at a tank battery fire in Lea County, New Mexico. According to a social media post from the county, it’s in the area of Frying Pan Road and Anthony Road in southern Lea County. Multiple counties from across New Mexico a...

CBS7 / KOSA-TV News (firstalert7.com)Jul 17, 2026

schools

PSP invests $5.1 million in West Texas teacher certification programs

The Permian Strategic Partnership is investing $5.1 million into two teacher certification programs to help West Texas schools prepare for new state requirements taking effect in August 2026....

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 17, 2026

Local

7/17/2026: Flash flood watch issued for Permian Basin amid storms

A flood watch is in effect for the Permian Basin as the National Weather Service forecasts cloudy skies and scattered thunderstorms with potential for heavy rain through the weekend....

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 17, 2026

News

A 7.3 earthquake hits Mexico-Guatemala border with no immediate damage reported

TAPACHULA, México (AP) — A strong earthquake struck the southern Mexican Pacific coast on Friday, right on the border with Guatemala, and was felt from Mexico City to El Salvador. Authorities have not immediately reported any severe damage or casualties in any country. The U.S. G...

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 17, 2026

safety

Permian Basin agencies join Texas Hill Country flood relief

Emergency services and relief organizations from the Permian Basin, including Reeves County ESD and the Salvation Army, have deployed personnel and supplies to assist with ongoing rescue and recovery efforts following catastrophic flooding in the Texas Hill Country....

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 17, 2026

schools

PSP invests $5.1M to help West Texas schools meet new teacher certification

MIDLAND, Texas (KOSA) - With new teacher certification requirements under House Bill 2 (89th) taking effect in August 2026, the Permian Strategic Partnership (PSP) is investing $5.1 million to help West Texas schools retain educators, expand certification opportunities and build ...

CBS7 / KOSA-TV News (firstalert7.com)Jul 17, 2026

parks

Ken Paxton’s campaign says he will debate James Talarico in Texas’ U.S. Senate race

(TEXAS TRIBUNE) - WASHINGTON — Attorney General Ken Paxton’s campaign said he would debate state Rep. James Talarico in Texas’ U.S. Senate race after Talarico challenged him to do so Thursday morning.Talarico, the Democratic nominee, said he had accepted invitations from three Te...

CBS7 / KOSA-TV News (firstalert7.com)Jul 17, 2026

News

Andrews landfill closes cause of rain

ANDREWS, Texas (KOSA) - Landfill in Andrews is closed. According to a post made by the City of Andrews, the landfill is closed because of the rainfall from the night before. The city apologies for the insolvencies this may cause and will provide updates as situations change....

CBS7 / KOSA-TV News (firstalert7.com)Jul 17, 2026

government

The Latest: Trump doubles down on election fraud claims in primetime speech

President Donald Trump used a primetime address to the nation to elevate his yearslong push to raise doubts about the legitimacy of U.S. elections and dispute his 2020 loss — this time, to justify his push to pass a strict voter ID bill. His allegations Thursday night of interfer...

Yourbasin / Big 2 KMID + Fox 24 KPEJ (Nexstar)Jul 17, 2026