Good morning, Midland.

Today, the Midland Soup Kitchen Ministry said it is at its busiest in 40 years and is asking for financial donations to serve the growing number of patrons—this rise in need reflects increased calls for help in the community.

A strict cell phone ban began on September 1 after Governor Greg Abbott signed House Bill 1481, and teachers across Texas report higher student engagement and fewer discipline referrals as phones remain in backpacks — even as some students are still adjusting.

Midland ISD also said its latest statement confirmed improved classroom communication and behavior.

Today, Midland ISD announced that two students—Gabriel Stromberg from Legacy High School and Jillian Bejil from Young Women’s Leadership Academy—have been named National Merit Semifinalists, an honor given to less than 1 percent of high school scholars nationwide.

The Midland County Commissioners Court approved a new salary schedule for the Sheriff’s Office that will take effect Oct.

1—separating it from the county pay system to attract qualified law enforcement personnel. The new scale offers deputies a starting pay increase from $47,000 to $80,000 and sets jailers at $65,000, cadets at $71,000, and investigators at $83,000.

Midland Mayor Lori Blong today launched her re-election campaign with a focus on efficiency, public safety and quality of life improvements.

She plans to engage voters through forums and social media events — continuing the work she started to lower taxes and invest in local infrastructure.

Midland Health Services confirmed West Nile Virus in a Midland County resident, marking the first case this year—health officials are now monitoring the situation.

Alsie's Food Truck at Energy Tower

11 AM – 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM – 10 PM — Alsie's Food Truck — Free entry — Serving delicious bites all day long in Midland, TX.

SPiVEY Live at Pi Social

7-9 p.m. — Pi Social — No cover charge — Experience the electrifying fusion of rock and pop electronica with SPiVEY while enjoying artisan cocktails and culinary delights.

Food Trucks at Centennial Park

11 AM – 10 PM — Centennial Park — Free entry — Enjoy a variety of local food trucks serving delicious bites throughout the day.

St Andrew Men's Conference

6 PM – 8:45 PM — Horseshoe Arena - Education Building — Free entry — Experience a weekend of fellowship featuring Fr. Larry during Family Worship night.

Mat Pilates with Zeila

9-10 a.m. — The I-20 Wildlife Preserve & Jenna Welch Nature Study Center — Free & Open to Registered Community Members — Energize your core and enhance flexibility in a natural setting with mindful Pilates.

Pianomania! - Rockin the 1950s

2:30-4 p.m. — Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center — Tickets from $74 — Experience the lively tunes of the 1950s with Jared Freiburg in this exciting musical event.

Sergio Tarin & Erik Madrid Live Performance

7-9 p.m. — Pi Social — Enjoy a night of captivating music as talented duo Sergio Tarin and Erik Madrid blend pop, jazz, and soul in a cozy atmosphere.

Al Haney Live at Pi Social

7-9 p.m. — Pi Social — Cost varies — Experience an enchanting evening of saxophone tunes that elevate your dining atmosphere.

Food Trucks at Centennial Park

11 AM – 10 PM — Centennial Park — Free entry — Enjoy a variety of delicious bites from local food trucks throughout the day.

Movie in the Park - Encanto

5 AM – 10 PM — Centennial Park — Free entry — Enjoy a magical evening under the stars with a screening of Encanto.