Good morning, Midland.

The City of Midland reported its sales tax collection in October rose over 7% compared to October 2024 — a boost in revenue that city officials say will help fund local services — the increase shows growing economic strength.

Midland ISD is now accepting applications for Gifted and Talented screenings from October 1st until October 31 for students in grades K through 11 — parents can join awareness sessions for more details.

Project Literacy returned to promote reading among kids with school programs, author visits and book signings at local schools and libraries.

Headlined by Dan Santat and including both local and out-of-state guests, the event gave every MISD first-grader a copy of the featured book — boosting early reading habits.

Midland County Commissioners Court voted Tuesday to raise the senior homestead exemption from $100,000 to $150,000, lowering the taxable value by $50,000 for over 10,000 seniors.

This change will show on property tax bills in October 2026—saving about $60 a year at the current tax rate.

Midland Mayor Lori Blong and Congressman August Pfluger say the city will challenge federal rules that let the FAA claim mineral royalties from Midland Airpark.

They are working with the Department of Transportation and the FAA to change the rules so that local oil and gas revenue—worth hundreds of millions—can fund water and infrastructure projects without raising taxes.

Glamour & Magic: Create Your Own Witch’s Hat

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Earth, Body, & Soul — $50 — Craft your own unique witch’s hat with a magical array of embellishments at this fun make-and-take event.

Pur De Patos Comedy Show

Evening — OCHO 80 — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with Pur De Patos and immerse yourself in the vibrant comedy scene.

To the Circus and Beyond with Scott O’Donnell

7-8 p.m. — Midland County History Museum — Free entry — Discover the adventures of a circus owner turned museum director.

Conversations in Fine Arts with Author

12-1 p.m. — Arts Council of Midland — Free entry — Experience the literary journey of a local author through discussions of their works.

Mat Pilates at WILDspace Wellness

9-10 a.m. — I-20 Wildlife Preserve & Jenna Welch Nature Study Center — Free — Strengthen your core and improve flexibility with energizing Pilates sessions led by Zeila.

New Moon Dream Sachets Workshop

12-5 p.m. — Earth, Body, & Soul — $12 per sachet — Create your own Moon Phase Dream Sachet infused with intention and lunar energy.

Family Science Night — Midland AF

6:30-8 p.m. — Permian Basin Petroleum Museum — Free admission — Enjoy a spook-tacular evening of Halloween-themed science experiments and fun for the whole family.

Chris D'Elia Live Stand-Up

7-9 p.m. — Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the hilarious wit of Chris D'Elia in his latest stand-up performance.

Trunk or Treat Event

6-8 p.m. — Midland Community Development Corporation — Registration required — Enjoy Halloween festivities while supporting local nonprofits and businesses for a chance to win a $1,000 microgrant.

Hocus Pocus Halloween Celebration

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center — Costumes encouraged — Enjoy a screening of Hocus Pocus with a costume parade and food trucks.