Your First Look at Vision Midland

Things are moving in Midland—and we’ve got the scoop.

From big-picture plans like Vision Midland to local efforts you can jump into this week (like block walking for Midland College), there’s a lot happening around town. Plus, former mayor Patrick Payton just dropped a new No Neutral Moments podcast, and it’s definitely worth a listen. We’ve also got a wild underground home, a full event lineup, and this week’s adoptable pup, Cricket.

Let’s get into it!

— Terra Avery & Ryan Shewchuk

IN THE NEWS
Introducing Vision Midland

The City of Midland has unveiled "Vision Midland," an interactive platform designed to showcase key initiatives, projects, and developments within the city. This tool offers residents, stakeholders, and visitors a comprehensive view of Midland's strategic vision, highlighting efforts in economic development, quality of life improvements, and sustainable growth.

Essentially, Vision Midland serves as a detailed roadmap reflecting the city's trajectory and aspirations.​ To explore Vision Midland and gain insights into the city's future plans, Visit Vision Midland here.

REAL ESTATE
The Underground Hideout You Didn’t Know You Needed

Ever wanted to live like a Bond villain or a Texas prepper with style? This underground home in Odessa might be your dream come true. Built mostly below the surface, this 3-bed, 2-bath property packs over 3,400 sq ft of living space—with a sprawling open-concept basement that’s equal parts cozy and curious.

It’s got two staircases, a massive kitchen, and plenty of room for whatever you’re into: movie nights, music studio, survival bunker, speakeasy... you name it.

👉 View Full Listing on Zillow
💰 Offered at $275,000
📍 1401 W County Road 140, Odessa, TX 79706

🏠 Are you a real estate agent? Feature your listings today.

PODCAST
No Neutral Moments with Patrick Payton

In addition to our Best of Midland Podcast, we also produce a number of local shows—including Patrick Payton’s No Neutral Moments.

In a time where loud voices from the edges of political and religious extremes dominate headlines and social feeds, Patrick Payton reminds us there’s still hope in the quiet strength of the middle.

In his recent No Neutral Moments episode, Patrick opens up about the core themes behind his upcoming book, The Majority Middle: Rescuing America from the Political Extremes, set to release in Spring 2026.

FEATURED EVENT
Block Walking Day for Midland College

Join the community for Block Walking Day as we rally support for the upcoming Midland College bond. We’ll meet at Far West Coffee to grab walking lists and then head out to knock doors and connect with neighbors.

📍 Location: Far West Coffee
📅 Date: Sunday, April 13
🕢 Time: 3pm

🎓 Why it matters: Midland College is turning students away due to limited capacity. This bond aims to change that—and your voice can help make it happen.

No experience necessary—just bring your energy (and maybe a friend).

Vote YES. Show up. Speak out. Let’s grow Midland College together.

LOCAL EVENTS
Coming Up This Week

Tuesday, Apr. 8

🎶 McKenna Kasowski Live: Catch McKenna Kasowski at Pi Social (203 W Wall St) from 7–9 PM for an evening of soulful Americana and blues, signature cocktails, and good vibes all around.

Wednesday, Apr. 9

🎨 Sip & Paint Party: Enjoy an evening of creativity, drinks, and delicious bites at the Petroleum Club of Midland—reservations required! Call 432-682-2557 or email [email protected].

Café con Pan Networking: Join the Midland Hispanic Chamber on April 9 at Midland College (MHAB Room 107) for coffee, pan dulce, and meaningful community connections from 9:30–10:30 AM. Featuring Spectrum of Solutions and S.H.A.R.E!

Thursday, Apr. 10

💎 Lola & Tae Grand Opening: You're invited to the grand opening of Lola & Tae, Midland’s newest boutique jewelry shop, at 2200 W Wadley Ave, Suite 206B (above La Bebe). Celebrate their Spring Collection with sips, sparkle, and shopping with friends!

💛 Kendra Gives Back: Shop at Kendra Scott Midland on April 10–11 and enjoy sips and sweets while 20% of proceeds support Midland Rainbow Room—use code GIVEBACK-JAZFV online at kendrascott.com!

🐾 Rescue on the Rocks Bingo: Head to The Blue Door (4610 N Garfield) for a free night of bingo supporting Fix West Texas—help tackle the pet overpopulation crisis while having fun for a great cause!

🌿 Apothecary Night – Skin Nourishment: Join Earth, Body, & Soul for a hands-on evening of DIY skincare where you’ll craft three all-natural products to pamper and rejuvenate your skin!

Friday, Apr. 11

🧠 Trivia Night – The Hunger Games: Test your knowledge of Book 1 and the movie at Waystone Brewing (2101 W. Wadley Ave.)—join Bryce, Wendi & friends for a fun night of friendly competition and prizes!

🍺 Pints for Pups: Celebrate National Pet Day at Tall City Brewing with Fix West Texas—donate pet supplies and get a free pint or flight as a thank you while supporting animals in need!

🍵 Spill the Tea: Join Earth, Body, & Soul for a free monthly discussion on all things holistic, spiritual, and metaphysical—tea, good vibes, and meaningful conversation included!

Saturday, Apr. 12

🧘 Stretch & Sound Saturdays: Join Midland Yoga Works (3610 N Garfield) every second Saturday for a relaxing blend of stretches, silence, and sound—your monthly reset for mind, body, and spirit.

🍻 Waystone Turns 2: Celebrate two years of craft beer at Waystone Brewing (2101 W. Wadley Ave.) on Saturday, April 12 with all-day fun, Frios Gourmet Pops, and free commemorative stickers while they last!

💃 Blackbird Fitness in the Park: Join Letty for a free, high-energy dance fitness class combining Turn Up and Dance2Fit—get a full-body workout with the best vibes in town!

🎉 Opportunity In The Park: Oilfield networking with RE-GEN Industries, food, family fun & a prayer kickoff — April 12 at Chris Davidson Opportunity Park.

Want to submit your upcoming event? Just click here!

PET OF THE WEEK
Meet Cricket! 🐾

This sweet girl is ready to steal your heart.

Cricket is a 4-month-old Boston Terrier mix who’s got the best of both worlds—she’s up for an outdoor adventure but just as happy snuggled on the couch. She’s great with other pups, incredibly affectionate with people, and basically the definition of a cuddle bug.

She’s vaccinated, microchipped, and spayed—all she needs now is a forever home.

📞 To learn more about Cricket, call Grand Companions at 432-426-3724
🌐 grandcompanions.org

Thanks for reading the Best of Midland Texas today. If you found something useful, please share it with your friends.

Thanks!

-Ryan & Terra

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