Good morning, Midland.

On Thursday, September 25, the annual Peanut Butter Brigade will begin at 7:00 a.m. at Music City Mall’s north parking lot and West Texas Food Bank at 1601 Westcliff Drive — the event will collect peanut butter jars to help feed families in need across West Texas.

Midland County businesses are sharing over $8.6 million in dividends from Texas Mutual Insurance Company as part of a $330 million payout to nearly 73,000 businesses statewide.

The dividend program rewards safe work practices and helps firms invest in better operations.

Midland County now has a property tax rate of 12 cents per $100 valuation—well below Ector County’s 35 cents—which is kept low by strong sales tax revenue and oil and gas income.

Ector County homeowners may see a $400 annual savings if a $40 homestead exemption increase passes in November while Midland plans to maintain its low rate.

Midland ISD approved a new tax rate for the 2025-2026 school year that sets the maintenance rate at about 63 cents—a 3½ cent decrease from last year—and keeps the interest and sinking rate at 21 cents, meaning a $100,000 home will be taxed about $870.

The board said planned bond funds for new schools and safety updates support the district's future growth.

Midland ISD placed several South Elementary staff members on administrative leave after allegations were reported to appropriate authorities—parents of the involved students were notified.

This action comes as the district investigates the reported concerns.

The Midland ISD Board of Trustees approved the termination of teacher Lynette Fields after her classroom remarks about Charlie Kirk did not reflect district values—officials said.

The district is also investigating another employee for online comments related to his death.

The City of Midland said it will widen Mockingbird Lane into a four-lane road—complete with medians and turn lanes—in its Phase One expansion project.

The project will improve traffic flow for local drivers.

Medical Center Hospital held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 18 to unveil a renovated playroom and a book vending machine at the Center for Women & Infants — improvements funded by a donation from Atmos Energy — offering families free access to children’s books.

Medical Center Healthcare System opened a newly renovated playroom that will keep kids busy while waiting to meet their new sibling, said hospital CEO Russell Tippin.

The new space gives families a welcoming area during their visit.

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.

Run to the Fair

1-4 p.m. — 1906 W Texas Ave, Midland, TX — Registration required — Participate in a fun, inclusive family run with options for varying levels of ability.

Reiki Level 1 Certification Class

1-5 p.m. — Earth, Body, & Soul — Cost varies — Begin your transformative journey into Usui Reiki Energy Healing with hands-on practice and personal attunements.

Alsie's Food Truck — MIDLAND AF

11 AM - 2:30 PM & 4:30 PM - 10 PM — Corner of Wall & Colorado — No entry fee — Swing by for delicious bites all day long with Alsie's Food Truck.

Gabby's Dollhouse Live! Event

5-7:30 p.m. — Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center — Free entry — Enjoy a creative exploration of crafts and activities inspired by Gabby's Dollhouse and Girl Scouts.