Good morning, Midland.

A Midland man identified as 40-year-old Raul Hernandez — sitting in a wheelchair and holding a hatchet — was arrested on June 26 at the Santa Fe Apartments after he threatened neighbors while reportedly intoxicated.

Midland ISD approved a new budget for the 2025–26 school year that cuts its deficit to $7.89 million—a reduction of about $35 million from last year—and uses $8.5 billion in added state funds to boost teacher pay, school safety, special education and technical programs.

The district also updated its policy to allow a 4% deficit for more flexibility as it plans further cost efficiencies for upcoming years.

Starting July 1, Texas dealers will issue metal license plates at the sale to replace paper tags used in crimes—buyers must keep their purchase receipts until the mailed registration stickers arrive.

Texas lottery players in Midland must now buy tickets in person after Gov. Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 3070, which bans online and third-party sales.

The law ends the Texas Lottery Commission and shifts oversight to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation starting Sept. 1—keeping the lottery active until 2029 amid ongoing investigations into past payout issues.

Amarillo Sod Poodles at Midland RockHounds

1-4 p.m. — Scharbauer Sports Complex — Tickets required — Enjoy a thrilling baseball matchup between local teams.

Amarillo Sod Poodles at Midland RockHounds

1:00–4:00 p.m. — Scharbauer Sports Complex — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling Minor League Baseball matchup in Midland.

Amarillo Sod Poodles vs. Midland RockHounds

1-4 p.m. — Scharbauer Sports Complex — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling baseball matchup between local favorites.

Texas Battle Bowl 2025

July 11-13 — Bush Convention Center — Competitor 3 day pass required — Witness fierce gaming competitions with a prize pool exceeding $35,000.

Rock the Rind Tall City Triathlon

8 AM — COM Aquatics, INC. — Registration fees apply — Compete in sprint triathlons for individuals or relays in this community sports event.

Summer Sunday Lawn Concert: Small Town

7-10 p.m. — Museum of the Southwest — Free entry — Enjoy great hits from country, classic, rock and more under the stars.

Golf Pro Payments Western Championship

July 14-15 — Midland Country Club — Entry fees apply — Compete in a thrilling 36-hole stroke play competition.

America Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center — Tickets from $112 — Catch the iconic band America live in concert.

Arkansas Travelers vs Midland RockHounds Baseball Game

7:00 – 8:30 PM — Scharbauer Sports Complex — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling minor league baseball game between the Arkansas Travelers and the Midland RockHounds.

Storytime: You're My Little Firecracker

11:00-11:30 a.m. — Museum of the Southwest — Free entry — Celebrate the joy of childhood with a festive reading of a vibrant storybook about parental love and excitement.