Photo Gallery: Memorable moments of 2021 in the Permian Basin through the lenses of Odessa American photojournalist Eli Hartman and Jacob Ford.
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Odessa College's Jaden Chavez practices an iron at the range Jan. 3, 2021, at Odessa Country Club. (Jacob Ford)
West Texans shop for ammunition among a shortage Thursday, Jan. 4, 2021, at Windhorn Services Pawn. Windhorn Services Pawn primarily sale ammunition and firewood. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Pharmacist Brian Meyer gives Hannah Horick the first dose of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine on Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2021 at Sunflower Pharmacy.
Miss Rodeo SandHills Teen Aubrie Fields holds the American flag during the national anthem during a special section of Sandhills Stock Show and Rodeo Jan. 7, 2021, at the Ector County Coliseum. The Sandhills Stock Show and Rodeo first stock show begins tomorrow at 8 a.m. with the Goat Show in Barn E and the first rodeo will be at 7:30 p.m. at the Ector County Coliseum. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Toby Lee of Hobbs, New Mexico, tapes his glove before he competes in bull riding during a special section of Sandhills Stock Show and Rodeo Jan. 07, 2021, at the Ector County Coliseum. The Sandhills Stock Show and Rodeo first stock show begins tomorrow at 8 a.m. with the Goat Show in Barn E and the first rodeo will be at 7:30 p.m. at the Ector County Coliseum. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Rodeo competitors prepare backstage before the start of the first perfornance of the SandHills Stock Show and Rodeo Thursday, Jan. 7, 2021 at the Ector County Coliseum.
A rodeo athlete bucks out of the chute while competing in the saddle bronc event on the first night of the Sandhills Stock Show and Rodeo Thursday, Jan. 7, 2021 at the Ector County Coliseum.
Justin Sports Medical Team Athletic Trainer Jill Miller helps rodeo competitor Mason Laviolette stretch before the start of the first night of competition at the Sandhills Stock Show and Rodeo Friday, Jan. 8, 2021 at the Ector County Coliseum.
A cottontail rabbit hides in snow covered prickly pear cacti at the University of Texas of the Permian Basin Monday, Jan. 12, 2021, in Odessa. Snow is seen at the Ector County line on Business 20 Monday between Odessa and Midland. National Weather Service Meteorologist Devin Chehak reported an accumulation of two inches of snow around Odessa and Midland on Sunday. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Small snowmen are seen on the hood of a retired postal service jeep Monday, Jan. 12, 2021 in Odessa .National Weather Service Meteorologist Devin Chehak reported an accumulation of two inches around Odessa and Midland on Sunday. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Baker Lazaro Espinoza rolls white bread dough for baking into bolillos used for tortas Wednesday at Melody's Bakery. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Public Relations Assistant for the City of Odessa Magaly Nieto poses for a photo Thursday, Jan. 21, 2021 at Municipal Plaza.
Charley Standley, left, and his son Caysen, 7, share a moment in prayer before the start of the Lazy S4 winter series youth rodeo Saturday, Jan. 23, 2021 in West Odessa.
Odessa College's Nick Sharp hits a pitch during practic Monday, Jan. 25, 2021, at Wrangler Field in Odessa. OC will open their season against San Jacinto College-North and McLennan Community College Friday in Houston. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
The new Precinct 3 County Commissioner Don Stringer poses for a photo Friday, Jan. 29, 2021 at the Ector County Annex in Odessa, Texas. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Odessa College's Aydenne Brown (13) pitches against Ranger College during their first game of a double-header Friday, Jan. 30, 2021, at W. T. Barrett Stadium. Brown would go on to pitch no hitter that game. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Pump jacks operate in an oilfield as the sun begins to set on the horizon Tuesday, Feb. 2, 2020, in Midland, Texas. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Odessa College's Shaman Alston (3) dunks against Loyalty College Prep Thursday, Feb. 04, 2021, at the OC Sports Center. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Odessa Police Department Chief Michael Gerke answers questions about fallen officer Scott Smith following a memorial ceremony on the 33rd anniversary of his passing Saturday, Feb. 6, 2021 at the Odessa Police Department. Officer Scott Smith was killed in the line of duty in a motorcycle accident while responding to a burglary in progress call on February 6, 1988. Each year on the anniversary of a fallen officer’s passing the Odessa Police Department honors their memory with a ceremony and the placing of a wreath on the fallen officer memorial statue from sunrise until sunset.
Clifton Garza fishes for trout in light snow Feb. 12, 2021, at Comanche Trail Park. Friday is the second day the Permian Basin has seen freezing weather as a Winter Weather Advisory issued by the National Weather Service for the region remains in effect until 11 a.m. Saturday. The NWS forecasts that the cold temperatures will remain in the Basin throughout the weekend with Sunday night seeing a 70% chance of snow. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
A coyote trots along a pathway Friday, Feb.12, 2021, at the University of Texas of the Permian Basin. Friday is the second day the Permian Basin has seen freezing weather as a Winter Weather Advisory issued by the National Weather Service for the region remains in effect until 11 a.m. Saturday. The NWS forecasts that the cold temperatures will remain in the Basin throughout the weekend with Sunday night seeing a 70% chance of snow. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
A pair of cows roam a field as they graze with the rest of their herd Saturday, Feb. 13, 2021 near Midland International Air and Space Port. (Odessa American)
A greater scaup stands on the edge the ice of a frozen duck pond Monday, Feb. 15, 2021, at the University of Texas of the Permian Basin. The National Weather Service said very cold temperatures are expected tonight but tomorrow temperatures will warm above freezing. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Ratliff Stadium trees are coved in snow Monday, Feb. 15, 2021, in Odessa. The National Weather Service said very cold temperatures are expected tonight but tomorrow temperatures will warm above freezing. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
A man seeking shelter from the cold embraces his dog Dittle D Bear while resting at a warming shelter inside the Copper Rose Building Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2021 in Odessa, Texas. The man, who declined to give his real name, was a traveler that arrived the night before and stated he was in Odessa February the year prior.
Father Ricky Lopez prepares pouches of ashes to-go for a drive-thru Ash Wednesday event Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2021, at St. John's Episcopal Church. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Father Ricky Lopez, right, hands out ashes to-go in a drive-thru Ash Wednesday event Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2021,at St. John's Episcopal Church. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
A dove lies dead in the snow on 17th Street Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2021, in Odessa. Many residents and businesses were left without power following a weekend of below freezing temperatures in Midland and Odessa. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Chris Mattingly helps his daughter Zoe, 4, adjust her winter hat as they play fetch with their dogs George Brown, right, and retired sheriff’s K9 Axel, left, Thursday, Feb. 18, 2021 at UTPB Park.
Oncor apprentice lineman Brendan Waldon repairing a utility pole that was damaged by the winter storm that passed through Texas Thursday, Feb. 18, 2021 in Odessa, Texas.
Permian's Calvione Calicutt (30) holds up the Class 6A bi-district playoff trophy in celebration after Permian defeated El Paso Eastlake 71-58 Monday, Feb. 22, 2021, at the Permian Field House. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Southeast Power Corporation's Raul Figueroa and Daniel Ochoa guide the final segment of a new 110 foot power line pole into a lower segment that will be used to extend the height of the wires Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2021, next to Ratliff Ranch Golf Links and Loop 338. The power lines needed to be updated and raised for a new overpass that will take East Loop 338 over East Yukon Road according to a press release from the Texas Department of Transportation Jan. 26. The first phase of the TxDOT project will build ramps that will take traffic off the loop and tie in to Yukon Road at the new intersections. This phase will take several months to complete. Work will focus on building overpass embankments and the overpass itself after the new intersections are completed. That is more than a year away. The speed limit will be reportedly reduced to 65 mph on Loop 338 through the construction zone. A heavy law enforcement presence may be in use at times to improve safety. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
David Burlington, right, handles a small rainbow trout to revoke a hook while fishing with his 3-year-old dog Maria and friend Roy Autry Monday Mar. 3, 2021 at Comanche Trail Park. Temperatures dropped into the 30s Sunday night and Monday saw a high 48 degrees with a low of 27 according to the National Weather Service. The National Weather Service expects the cold to be short-lived with highs on Tuesday rebounding into the upper 50s and 60s for most across Southeast New Mexico and West Texas. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Head cook Isidra Ochoa mixes in white chocolate into their Talkin Texas Trash at Susie's South Forty Confections' factory Tuesday, March 2, 2021, on South Marienfeld Street in Midland. Talkin Texas Trash is a custom blend of cereals and pretzels mixed with fancy pecans in a creamy white chocolate flavored coating. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Permian's Christian Chavez, center, competes in the Boy's 3,200 meter run during the West Texas Relays on March 5, 2021, at Ratliff Stadium. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Tony Banister of Odessa pushes his son Liam, 2, down a sand dune as their family made a trip to the Monahans Sandhills State Park for spring break Tuesday, March 9, 2021, in Monahans, Texas. (Odessa American File Photo)
Migrant children and teenagers from the southern border of the United State are processed after entering the site of a temporary holding facility Sunday, March 14, 2021 south of Midland, Texas.
Odessa College's Cameron Denson (23) shoots against Midland College's Tywon McKenzie (33) and Steven Richardson (5) during the first half Monday, March 5, 2021, at the Al G Langford Chaparral Center in Midland. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Chef Alejandro Barrientos of Curb Side Bistro poses for a photo Wednesday, March 24, 2021 at Curb Side Bistro. Barrientos is the owner of local restaurant Curb Side Bistro and recently was selected to be on an episode of the Food Network gameshow “Beat Bobby Flay” which will air on April 22.
Odessa Jackanapes' Jack Musa (26) skates the puck down ice against the Wichita Falls Warriors during the second period Saturday, April 3, 2021, in the Ector County Coliseum. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Maribea's chocolate maker Meredith Horton adds nibs from albino cocoa beans to a melanger machine at Maribea's chocolate factory Tuesday April 6, 2021, in Odessa. A melanger features all-natural granite roller stones that refine roasted cocoa bean nibs into a thick liquid known as chocolate liquor. The processing allows for maximum retention of the beansÕ inherent qualities. Maribea doesn't use any artificial flavoring or preservatives. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Permian High School's Eduardo Mendez performs his horizontal bar routine during the Region III Championship, Day 1, Friday April 9, 2021, in the Permian Fieldhouse. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Odessa High School's boys gymnastics coach Trey Enriquez watches his student Vinny Flores rehearse his parallel bar routine during the Region III Championship, Day 1, April 9, 2021, in the Permian Fieldhouse. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Permian High School's Daniella Jimenez performs her balance beam routine during the Region III Championship, Day 1, Friday April 9, 2021, in the Permian Fieldhouse.(Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
D.J. Ponville prepares to tees off on hole 2 of Black Jack's Crossing Tuesday, April 13, at Lajitas Golf Resort. Black JackÕs Crossing was designed by pro golfer Lanny Wadkins, winner of the 1977 PGA Championship, eight-time member of the US Ryder Cup team, and inductee into the World Golf Hall of Fame. The course was named after U.S. Army General, "Black Jack" Pershing who pursued Pancho Villa across the Rio Grande. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Pete Moss, left, putts on the green of hole 7 at Black Jack's Crossing Tuesday, April 13, at Lajitas Golf Resort. Lajitas Mesa as a backdrop makes for a memorable hole. Moss's group was visiting from Tulsa, Oklahoma. Black JackÕs Crossing was designed by pro golfer Lanny Wadkins, winner of the 1977 PGA Championship, eight-time member of the US Ryder Cup team, and inductee into the World Golf Hall of Fame. The course was named after U.S. Army General, "Black Jack" Pershing who pursued Pancho Villa across the Rio Grande. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Zipline instructor Josh Markus ziplines above Quiet Canyon on a 1,406 foot cable Tuesday, April 13, at Lajitas Golf Resort. All tours are fully guided by qualified staff. The weight limit for the tours range from is 65-275 lbs and ages 9 and up. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Lajitas Mayor Clay Henry IV looks out from his enclosure on the side of Farm to Market Road 170 Tuesday, April 13, in Lajitas. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Julie Morgan, left, and her husband Greg Morgan watch the Sun rise over mountains in Big Bend National Park Wednesday April 15, 2021, in Terlingua. The Morgans, from Atlanta, have been married 19 years and were in the process of a road trip from San Antonio to El Paso. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Odessa High School Broncho Legacy's Zach Marquez center, and Victoria Carrillo, 16, rehearse their choreography for their spring show titled "Good Vibrations" Tuesday April 27, 2021, in the lobby of the Odessa High School Performing Art Center. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
United States Army National Guard helps to distribute groceries into boxes to help fight hunger in West Texas Tuesday April 27, 2021, in the West Texas Food Bank warehouse in Odessa. The West Texas Food Bank received 4,200 pounds of donated apples Tuesday as part of the non-profit Take a Bite Out of Hunger program sponsored by FirstFruits Marketing of Washington. United Supermarkets has been a partner since Take a Bite Out of Hunger program originated. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Pecos High School junior and dual credit student Isabella Vazquez, center, reacts after the alarm of the Ford Mustang she was standing in front of went off to indicate she is the winner of the annual Odessa College Drive to Success incentive program April 29, 2021, at Odessa College's Sewell Auto Tech. Vazquez and other students were the finalists for the program where a brand new Mustang is given away to students who are enrolled in at least six credit hours in the current semester and have good academic standing. Some of the way students increase their chances of winning include attending school events, tutoring services and live on campus. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Permian High School baseball team celebrate with the District 2-6A championship trophy during a trophy presentation Monday on McCanlies Field. Permian High School's last district championship was in 1989 as district co-champion with Abilene-Cooper High School and their last outright district championship was in 1966. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Dancer of the Folklorico group Viva Mexico Alex Ramirez, 12, waits to perform at a Cinco de Mayo celebration hosted by the Odessa Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at the Odessa Marriott Hotel and Convention center Wednesday, May 5, 2021 in Odessa, Texas.
Richard Muniz holds a grey eastern kangaroo at A.M. Farm Mobile Petting Zoo during the 25th annual Fiesta West Texas Friday at the Ector County Coliseum. Family shows include ÔSplashÕ Sea Lion Show, Swifty Swine Pig Races, Circus of Americas, UTPB Folklorico Dancers, Shout Cheerleading, carnival, food vendors and a cornhole tournament. The concert lineup Saturday includes : Grupo Siggno and La Energia Nortea; Sunday: Los Reileros Del Norte and Los Perdidos De Sinaloa. For tickets, visit fiestawesttexas.com. For VIP, call 432-557-5598 or 999-0268. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Permian High School's Alexis Belen (31) watches her pitch hit for a home run by Odessa High School's Nivea Saenz (5) during the third inning Saturday, May 10, 2021, at Ratliff Softball Complex. OHS won the game 9-3. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Hair Hang performer Argentina Portugal flies through the big top while performing her act during the Paranormal Circus at the Ector County Coliseum Saturday, May 15, 2021 in Odessa, Texas.
Odessa Episcopal Communities priest-in-charge Rev. Ricardo Lopez stands for a portrait May 12 inside St. John's Episcopal Church's sanctuary. Rev. Lopez has been serving in Odessa since June 2018. Rev. Lopez stated that he has always felt a call to service but when he was 16 years old he was invited to consider a call in ministerial service from his priest. Rev. Lopez also stated his favorite part of being a religious leader is being able to serve in diverse ways from Sunday sermons to visiting hospitals to celebrating joyous and difficult moments in people's lives. Odessa Episcopal Communities includes St. John's Episcopal Church, St. Barnabas' Episcopal Church and Iglesia Episcopal San Miguel Archangel. (Odessa American|Jacob Ford)
Midland RockhoundsÕ Jonah Bride (20) hits a pitch from San Antonio Missions Saturday, May 16, 2021, at Momentum Bank Ballpark in Midland. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Midland RockhoundsÕ Brady Feigl (18) pitches during the third inning against the San Antonio Missions Saturday, May 16, 2021, at Momentum Bank Ballpark in Midland. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Odessa College photography professor Steve Goff poses for a photo with his L.F. Deardroff & Sons 8x10 large format film camera made the same year he was born, 1951, Monday, May 17, 2021, in the college's photo studio. Goff is retiring from full time teaching at the end of the 2021 summer semester after 42 years as a photography professor. Goff has been a professor with Odessa College for 37 years. In retirement, Goff plans to finish two photo books he has been working on as well as continue his work on the boards of the Texas Photographic Society and Odessa Arts. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Permian Panthers' Corey McCoy(4) makes a tackle against Tabire Jones (9) during their annual spring game Thursday, May 20, 2021, at Ratliff Stadium.(Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Permian Panthers' Icarus Garcia (54) drinks water on the sideline during their annual spring game Thursday, May 20, 2021, at Ratliff Stadium.(Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Soon-to-be graduates of the Odessa Career & Technical Early College High School wait backstage for the start of their graduation ceremony at the Odessa College Sports Center Friday, May 21, 2021 in Odessa, Texas.
University of Texas Permian Basin STEM Academy's Franklin Riggen, left, Miguel Campos, center, Nathaniel Mancha, center right, and Shawn Greathouse carry their boat to the staring line so they can compete in a middle school cardboard boat race Wednesday May 26, 2021, at UTPB Swimming Pool.(Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
University of Texas Permian Basin STEM Academy student reaches out to finish a cardboard boat race time as he competes in a middle school cardboard boat race May 26, 2021, at UTPB Swimming Pool.(Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
George H. W. Bush New Tech Odessa graduates gather on a staircase for a group photo before the start of George H. W. Bush New Tech Odessa 2020-2021 Graduation Ceremony Thursday, May 27, 2021, at Wagner Noel Performing Arts Center. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
From left, Odessa High School graduate Merlin Barraza, 17, takes a selfie with her classmates Destiny Rodriguez, Neida Armendariz and Evan Venegas before the start of their graduation ceremony Friday, May 28, 2021 at Ratliff Stadium.
Permian High School graduates pose for a silly panoramic photo before the start of Permian’s graduation ceremony for the class of 2021 Saturday, May 29, 2021 at Ratliff Stadium.
Midland Rockhounds' Logan Davidson prepares to swing against the Corpus Christi Hooks' Thursday, June 6, 2021, at Momentum Bank Ballpark in Midland. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Horseshoe Lake is surrounded by speleothems both above and underwater in Caverns of Sonora Tuesday, June 8, 2021, in Sutton County, Texas. (Odessa American|Jacob Ford)
Brian Schere hits out of the bunker on hole 9 during the second day of the Quarter Century Partnership golf tournament Friday , June 11, 2021, on "The Old Course" at Odessa Country Club . (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
West Texas Warbirds’ Devon Edwards Williams (50) prays in the Warbirds’ locker room before the start of their indoor football game against the Amarillo Venom Saturday, June 12, 2021 at the Ector County Coliseum.
Team USAÕs Ally Carda (3) pitches against Team Alliance's Janae Jefferson (2) of Texas at Momentum Bank Ballpark Saturday, June 13, 2021, in Midland, Texas. (AP Photo|Odessa American, Jacob Ford)
Team USAÕs Haylie McCleney (8) steps into the batter box to hit against Team Alliance at Momentum Bank Ballpark Saturday, June 13, 2021, in Midland, Texas. (AP Photo|Odessa American, Jacob Ford)
Astronaut Jose Hernandez, center, takes a photo with Pease Elementary School Natalia Perez before speaking to Ector County Independent School District BE and ESL Program students Wednesday June 16, 2021, in the Odessa High School Performing Arts Center. Hernandez flew on Discovery STS-128 Mission to the International Space Station as a flight engineer aboard space shuttle Discovery. Hernandez is now the president and CEO of Tierra Luna Engineering, LLC.
Members of the Dallas Black Dance Theatre perform a ballet during their Juneteenth performance Friday, June 18, 2021 at the Ector Theater. (OA File Photo)
Lifeguard Dshybroen Deary jumps off the diving board during a break while working Wednesday, June 2, 2021 at the Woodson Park Aquatic Center.
Garrett Shadbolt of Merriman, NE tapes up his arm before the start of the first night of performances at the West of the Pecos Rodeo Wednesday, June 23, 2021 in Pecos, Texas.
A rodeo director releases the flank strap as Bareback competitor Garrett Shadbolt of Merriman, NE begins his ride on the first night of the 2021 West of the Pecos Rodeo at the Buck Jackson Arena Wednesday, June 23, 2021 in Pecos, Texas.
Kashton Lopez, 3, looks out over the 2021 West of the Pecos Rodeo during their first performance Wednesday, June 23, 2021 in Pecos, Texas.
Kameron Norman, 12, competes in long jump at the annual Dr. Daniel Cepero Track & Field meet Friday, June 25, 2021, at Ratliff Stadium. Norman won first place in the 12-year-old division. (Odessa American|Jacob Ford)
A "Tiny Tot" athlete waves his American flag before stepping on the track at the annual Dr. Daniel Cepero Track & Field meet Friday, June 25, 2021, at Ratliff Stadium. (Odessa American|Jacob Ford)
Jazelynn Flotte, 2, competes in "Tiny Tots" 100 meter dash as her mom Jolynn Flotte helps to keep her in line at the annual Dr. Daniel Cepero Track & Field meet Friday, June 25, 2021, at Ratliff Stadium .(Odessa American|Jacob Ford)
An young athlete competes in pole vaulting at the annual Dr. Daniel Cepero Track & Field meet Friday, June 25, 2021, at Ratliff Stadium .(Odessa American|Jacob Ford)
RyuKyu Boleyn rehearses "Journey on the Yukon Express" during UTPB Falcon Band Camp Wednesday June 30, 2021, at the Wagner Nol Performing Arts Center. The camp is designed for middle school and high school band students from those entering seventh grade in fall 2021 through graduating seniors. (Odessa American|Jacob Ford)
Braxton White, 12, poses for a photo Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at UTPB’s Roden Baseball Field. White, who was born without his left forearm, plays in the Odessa Youth Baseball Association for the West Texas Rockies team. Despite his birth defect, Braxton plays as a first baseman, pitcher, and outfielder and proudly sports the number 27 as a tribute to his father Joe Brooks White II who passed away in May of 2019 from an unexpected heart attack at the age of 39. White can also hold his own at bat, and despite a tendency to be walked, he’s garnered a reputation for stealing bases. In addition to baseball, Braxton has also played basketball, football, tennis and golf.
A National Park Service Ranger surveys the trail at Carlsbad Caverns National Park for items left behind by visitor to protect the fragile environment Tuesday, July 6, 2021, in Eddy County, New Mexico. Carlsbad Caverns includes the largest chamber in North America, named the Big Room, which is almost 4,000 feet long, 625 feet wide, and 255 feet high at its highest point. The cavern features a variety of speleothems including columns, soda straws, draperies, helictites, and popcorn. The park offers bat flight viewing at sunset and sunrise. The park contains over 119 caves but only three caves are open to public tours. Carlsbad Caverns is the most famous and is fully developed with electric lights, paved trails, and elevators. Slaughter Canyon Cave and Spider Cave are undeveloped except for designated paths for the guided "adventure" caving tours. Reservations are currently required to enter the caverns and must be purchased by calling 877-444-6777 or visiting the National Park Service website. (Odessa American|Jacob Ford)
A Barbary sheep walks the edge of a cliff at Carlsbad Caverns National Park in the Guadalupe Mountains Tuesday, July 6, 2021, in Eddy County, New Mexico. The invasive North African sheep was spotted in 1959 and their population as since grown after failed attempts to eradicate them to protect and perpetuate the natural ecosystem. Barbary sheep pose a threat to the native bighorn sheep by parasites and disease.(Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Ococtillo grows on the road side near El Capitan as seen from U.S. 62/180 on July 7, 2021, in Culberson County, Texas. El Capitan peak located within Guadalupe Mountains National Park is the 10th-highest peak in Texas at 8,085 feet. El Capitan is an exposed portion of a Permian period reef uplifted exposed by tectonic activity during the late Cretaceous period. (Odessa American|Jacob Ford)
A Harris's Hawk looks out from it's enclosure Wednesday, July 7, at Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park in Carlsbad, New Mexico. (Odessa American|Jacob Ford)
A western diamondback rattlesnake coils within its enclosure Wednesday, July 7, at Living Desert Zoo and Gardens State Park in Carlsbad, New Mexico. (Odessa American|Jacob Ford)
A trail from the exhaust of New Shepard 16 is seen in the sky Tuesday, July 20, 2021, in the sky north of Van Horn. Blue Origin and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, his brother Mark Bezos, an 82-year-old female aerospace pioneer Wally Funk, and 18-year-old Oliver Daemen flew on board the first manned flight of New Shepard 16 approximately 20 miles north of Van Horn. The journey was controlled by the craft's autonomous flight system. (Odessa American|Jacob Ford)
Emmanuel Martinez, 2, dips two paint brushes in acrylic paint at Keep Odessa Beautiful's Paintings and Pizzas canvas party Thursday, July 7, 2021, at Upcycle Demonstration Garden. KOB invited citizens to eat pizza, paint and enjoy the view of the Upcycle Demonstration Garden. (Odessa American|Jacob Ford)
Amir Larbi, 10, adds paint to his canvas at Keep Odessa Beautiful's Paintings and Pizzas canvas party Thursday, July 22, 2021, at Upcycle Demonstration Garden. KOB wants citizens to join us for this fun and creative activity. Children and their guardians eat pizza, paint and enjoy the view of the Upcycle Demonstration Garden. (Odessa American|Jacob Ford)
Matthew Munoz watches his ball after teeing off on the 15th tee box at the 29th annual MenÕs City Championship tournament Friday, July 23, 2021, at Ratliff Ranch Golf Links. (Odessa American|Jacob Ford)
Former Permian High School graduate and Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Roy Williams leads young campers in football agility drills during the first annual football day camp called Camp 432 Saturday, July 24, 2021 at Ratliff Stadium.
West Texas Warbirds’ Chris Finch (42) celebrates with his team in a shower of champagne after winning their Lonestar Series Championship game against the Amarillo Venom at the Ector County Coliseum Saturday, July 24, 2021 in Odessa, Texas. The final score was 79-60 and the Warbirds finished their inaugural season undefeated 7-0.
Johnathan Cox, 14, shoots a hoop while playing basketball with friends before the start of the City of Odessa’s Movie in the Park event Friday, July 30, 2021 at McKinney Park.
From left, Jason Kelliher, the hero sidekick, Ben Spencer, the hero, and Chris Carroll, the Don, prepare backstage in their dressing room before the start of their showing of Summer Mummers Saturday, July 31, 2021 at the Yucca Theatre. The Summer Mummers production is typically double casted, allowing most of the volunteer cast members to work various positions throughout the theatre during the summer and in some cases letting others take vacations.
Spectators start a “popcorn war” with each other at the start of the Summer Mummers melodrama “Bootlegging Boobery in the Basin or M’Yah, See?” Saturday, July 31, 2021 at the Yucca Theatre. The Summer Mummers production acts as a summer fundraiser for the Midland Community Theatre and each season Mummers sells approximately $100,000 in popcorn alone. According to MCT, revenue generated from the production goes towards season shows, education programs, and general operations.
Members of Patriot Guard Riders present a welcome home flag to United States Marine Corps veteran Ray Lopez Monday, Aug. 2, 2021, at a groundbreaking ceremony in Odessa. Operation FINALLY HOME along with local builder Silver Leaf Homes partnered to surprise U.S. Marine Cpl. Ray Lopez and his daughters with news they are receiving a new mortgage-free home. Lopez served three tours in Iraq and received two Purple Heart medals. Lopez has a 100 percent disabled veteran rating. Lopez said he was motivated to join the U.S. Marines after the terrorist attacks on 9/11.
Odessa High School Bronchos lineman await the call for the snap during practice Monday, Aug. 2, 2021, at Odessa High School's Pressly Field.
Beth Carrell holds up a sign that reads "Our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with you ALL!!!" as healthcare worker J.R. Gayton comes into work for a shift change Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2021, at Medical Center Hospital.
A composite image shows traffic driving past the Odessa Spire as it is lit in yellow for the second anniversary of the Odessa mass shooting Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021 at the corner of Maple Avenue and 10th Street. The Spire will remain lit in yellow throughout August 31 in remembrance of the victims of the deadly mass shooting that occurred in Odessa on August 31, 2019.
Permian High School football players board their busses after their scheduled scrimmage against Amarillo High School was cancelled due to lightning delays Friday, Aug. 20, 2021 at Ratliff Stadium.
Permian High School cheerleaders dance to the Permian High School Alma Mater before the start of the football game between Permian High and El Paso Pebble Hills Friday, Aug. 27, 2021 at Ratliff Stadium.
Odessa College's Myllena Torquetti (7) celebrates a point made against Trinidad State with her teammates Friday Aug. 27, 2021, in the OC Sports Center.
Odessa Strong flags that commemorate the victims of the the Midland-Odessa shooting that took place Aug. 31, 2019, flap in the wind Friday morning at Memorial Garden Park. The shooter killed seven people ranging in age from 15 to 57 and sent seventeen victims to the hospital including three law enforcement officers.
UTPB Falcons practice Tuesday morning on the UTPB Turf Field.
A UTPB Falcons' lineman Dominique Varela wears a Pennywise back plate during practice Tuesday, Aug. 31, 2021, on the UTPB Turf Field.
A cattle dog named Goose owned by Jim Rochester herds three cows at the Permian Basin Fair and Expo cattledog trials Wednesday Sept. 08, 2021, in the Outback arena. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
A 12-month-old grey border collie named Rip sits with his owner Junior Hicks in the bleachers as a cattle dog performs it's duties at the Permian Basin Fair and Expo cattledog trials Wednesday Sept. 8, 2021, in the Outback arena. Rip is still in training to become a cattle dog beck home in of Snyder, Oklahoma. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Permian High School's head coach Preston Ellison congratulates Odessa High School's Diego Cervantes (14)on a well played game Friday, Oct. 8, 2021, at Ratliff Stadium. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Hope for the Homeless volunteer Amanda Sanchez, left, trims Hugo Bueno's mustache during Hope for the Homeless monthly event Sept. 9, 2021, at American Legion. Hope for the Homeless offers free haircuts, free home cooked meal, and a free West Texas Food Bank box-of-food on the first Sept. 13, 2021, of each month. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Former Permian High School head football coach John Wilkins poses for a photo Thursday, Sept. 9, 2021 at Permian High School’s practice field in Odessa, Texas. Wilkins’ record in 13 seasons from 1973 to 1985 was 148-16-6, signifying him as the “third-winningest” coach in Texas high school football history. Honors compiled by Wilkins include coaching the 1981 Texas North All Star Team, being named in 2000 as Texas Football Magazine’s Texas High School Coach of the 1980’s and being inducted into the Texas Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2003. In October, Wilkins was inducted into the Odessa Athletics Hall of Fame in its inaugural class among other coaches and athletes such as former Dallas Cowboy Roy Williams and WNBA star Angela Braziel-Smith.
Odessa High School sophomore Ghianna Villegas, 15, plays "the Water is Wide" during harp class Monday, Sept. 13, 2021, at Odessa High School. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Heather Rodriguez poses for photo with her quintuplets Hadley, Reagan, Zariah, Zylah and Jocelyn as well as her four-year-old Sawyer after an interview with the media Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2021, at Progressive Park in front of the Odessa Regional Medical Center. Rodriguez said they go through a bout a case and a half of diapers a week and between 40-50 cans of formula.
Carmen Ferrer, owner of The Human Bean, and UTPB ballet folklorico dancer Arturo Martinez compete in Bailando con las Estrellas (Dancing with the Stars) at Odessa Hispanic Chamber of Commerce annual banquet and installation of officers Thursday, Sept. 14, 2021 at the Odessa Marriott Hotel & Conference Center.
West Texas Mariachi Forajido perform for Buena Vida Nursing and Rehabilitation Odessa's residents Friday, Sept 17, 2021, in Odessa. West Texas Mariachi Forajido also travelled to Madison Medical Resort, E.C.I.S.D Administration building, and Casa Ortiz Restaurant.(Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Permian High School’s Tristan Johnson (21), Devon Pierce (6) and Zach Wheeler (26) stand on top of a bench to get a better view as they watch their teammates in play against Mesquite Poteet in the second quarter of their game Friday, Sept. 17, 2021 at Ratliff Stadium.
Dafnay Betances, right, watches as her sister Perla Betances pins her badge during the Odessa Fire Rescue badge pinning ceremony Friday, Sept. 17, 2021 in Odessa, Texas.
City of Odessa Parks and Recreational Department's Patty Springer, left, walks with worn American flags that were placed at Memorial Garden Park to remember 9/11 victims and first responders Monday, Sept. 20, 2021, in Odessa. The worn flags Springer removed will be folded and burned at either American Legion or VFW Post 4372. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
University of Texas Permian Basin nursing student McKynzie Woody, left, administers a vaccines at a drive-thru COVID-19 vaccination clinic Tuesday Sept.21, 2021, at the UTPB soccer complex parking lot. City of Odessa, the University of Texas Permian Basin and the Ector County Health Department worked together to administer Pfizer and Moderna vaccines. Vaccinations will continue from 9 a.m. -1 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays until the demand decrease. First and second shots will be offered. Third shots will only be available with a doctorÕs note, regardless of the amount of time that has passed. Information on booster shots is subject to change in accordance with CDC guidelines. No appointment or preregistration is needed.
Odessa Fire Rescue firefighter Payton Adams fishes on clear day during a break in his shift Wednesday, Sept. 22, 2021 at OFR Station 3.
Permian High School’s JROTC cadet Lynelle Diswood, 17, holds the American Flag as they wait to post for the National Anthem before the start of Permian’s homecoming game against Abilene High School Friday, Sept. 24, 2021 at Ratliff Stadium.
Madelyn Clark, 17, left, and her father Judge Christopher Clark react to her being named homecoming queen during halftime in Permian High School’s homecoming game against Abilene High School Friday, Sept. 24, 2021 at Ratliff Stadium.
Greenwood High School mascots Rowdy, left, and Roxy make their way through one of the corn mazes at Fiddlesticks Farms Saturday, Sept. 25, 2021 in Midland. The Greenwood High School mascots made a visit to the farm with other local mascots including Spike the Midland High School Bulldog, Doodles the Chick-Fil-A cow and Texas Tech’s Raider Red for the opening day of Fiddlesticks Farms’ fall season and to practice their non-verbal interactions with the public.
Odessa High School Homecoming Queen Guillianna Jimenez, center, reacts to winning the crown while with her father Raul Jimenez, left, and mother Mirna Jimenez Friday night at Ratliff Stadium. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Calem Zapata, center, speaks with Odessa Police Department Sgt. Brad Cline, right, during National Night Out at the Woodlands Apartments Oct. 5, 2021, in Odessa. First responders were at 12 locations scattered around Odessa. National Night Out is designed to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness while generating support and participation in local anti-crime partnerships. The National Association of Town Watch (NATW) officially agreed to have a National Night Out for Texas on the first Tuesday of October in 2008 rather than August like other states. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Roman Lueras, 14, plays in a flood area of Lawndale Park after it flooded due to failure in the water tank at the park Oct. 7, 2021 in Odessa. A City of Odessa official told the Odessa American there was a failure of a fitting at the base of the tank. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Permian High School team captains walk on to the field for the coin toss against Odessa High School Friday Oct. 8, 2021, at Ratliff Stadium. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Permian High School and Odessa High School team captains meet for coin toss during their cross town rivalry game Friday, Oct. 8, 2021, at Ratliff Stadium. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Odessa High School's Odessa High School's Javonte Delce (9) runs the ball as Permian's Kayden Baze (10) makes a tackle near the sideline during their cross town rivalry game Friday, Oct. 8, 2021, at Ratliff Stadium. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Permian High School's Rodney Hall (25) celebrates on the sideline after another touchdown against Odessa High School secured the win Friday at Ratliff Stadium. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
UTPB Falcons' Jordan Smart (10) makes a reception against Lincoln University's Kobe Jenkins (22) Saturday, Oct. 9, 2021, at Ratliff Stadium. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Odessa High School Bronchos team captain Diego Cervantes (14) taps knuckles with Midland Legacy High School's Makhilyn Young (37) before the coin toss Friday, Oct. 15, 2021, at Ratliff Stadium. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Permian High School’s Caysen Clinton (36) watches the coin toss between Permian High and Midland High School on the scoreboard screen at the start of their game Friday, Oct. 15, 2021 in Midland, Texas.
“Old Timers” Lynn Palmore, left, and M.G. Clark slide plate of a steam-powered pumpjack as they work on getting it running in time for the opening of the Permian Basin International Oil Show Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2021 in Odessa, Texas. Palmore and Clark are members of the PBIOS “Old Timers” who monitor, run and repair historic oilfield equipment for the show which occurs every two years. (OA File Photo)
Odessa Chuck Wagon Gang member John Lewallen rings the meal bell as his fellow Chuck Wagon Gang members serve lunch to trade show visitors on the opening day of the Permian Basin International Oil Show Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2021, at the Ector County Coliseum. (OA File Photo)
Attendees walk through the outdoor displays at the Permian Basin International Oil Show on its opening day Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2021, at the Ector County Coliseum. (OA File Photo)
A mammography tech displays images of a mammography scan on a computer screen following an interview regarding breast cancer awareness Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2021 in Odessa, Texas.
Ribbon cutting attendees mill around Odessa High School’s renovated rooftop observatory and look through telescopes following its ribbon cutting ceremony Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2021 in Odessa, Texas. The observatory was refurbished over the past year after it was rediscovered being used as a storage room.
Permian Basin International Oil Show “Old Timers” Lynn Palmore, left, and M.G. Clark monitor the rig floor of a cable tool rig on display at the oil and gas trade show Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021 in Odessa, Texas.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott shakes hands with a supporter during a meet-and-greet before the start of a high school football game between Permian High School and Legacy High School Friday, Nov. 5, 2021 in Midland, Texas. Abbott spent two days in the Permian Basin speaking to supporters, holding campaign fundraisers and attending the iconic matchup between two of the most famous West Texas high school football teams.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott, left, talks with referee Terrell Pierce before the start of the West Texas high school football game between Permian High School and Legacy High School Friday, Nov. 5, 2021 in Midland, Texas.
Congressman August Pfluger speaks at his reelection campaign kickoff announcement at Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021, at the Bush Convention Center in Midland. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Devin McBride, right, holds his daughter, Lily McBride's, 8, hand as Ector County ISD RN Joanna Muniz, left, prepares to administer a Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine Wednesday, Nov. 10, 2021, at Zavala Elementary School. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
UTPB's Alvarez Powell (10) shoots a layup against Sul Ross State University's Jordan Rhyne (22) during the second half Monday, Nov. 15, 2021, in the Falcon Dome. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Odessa College's Dontrell Hewlett (12) jumps for a dunk against Trinity Valley Community College in the 2021 Wrangler Shootout basketball tournament Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2021, in the OC Sports Center. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Ivan Rodriguez drops off frozen turkeys for distribution during The Medina Law Firm Turkey Giveaway Friday, Nov. 19, 2021, at 2651 Kermit Highway. The Medina Law Firm had 1000 turkeys to giveaway. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Santa reaches out to high five a young boy as he greets the crowd waiting for his arrival via helicopter Saturday, Nov. 20, 2021 at Music City Mall.
Andrews High School’s Jullian Garcia (60) comforts Cole Flora (56) after their 43-33 loss to Springtown High School in a District 4A Division 1 area playoff game at the Mustang Bowl Monday, Nov. 22, 2021 in Sweetwater, Texas.
Sweetwater High School band member Ange Mekogue, 15, fist bumps Andrews High School football players as they make their way to the their locker room for halftime in their District 4A Division 1 area playoff game against Springtown High School at the Mustang Bowl Monday, Nov. 22, 2021 in Sweetwater, Texas. Andrews High School suffered the loss of their band director Darin Johns and team statistician Marc Boswell following a tragic bus crash the previous Friday while on the way to an area playoff game. Following the wreck, the game was rescheduled for Monday and members of various local communities including Midland, Odessa, Big Spring, and Sweetwater came out to support Andrews High School and their band. Though Andrews High School band students were not required to be present at the game, many made the trip to Sweetwater to support their fellow students and team.
Members of the Andrews HigH Schoo drumline play on the sideline during their school’s playoff game against Springtown High School Monday, Nov. 22, 2021 at the Mustang Bowl in Sweetwater. Members of the band came out to support their team as Big Spring High School and Sweetwater High School filled in for their performance following a tragic bush crash that killed the school’s band director Darin Johns and football team statistician Marc Boswell while on the way to a playoff game Friday.
Andrews High School cheerleader Kamryn Miller, 16, left, comforts AHS band member Analucia Arguello, 15, as she tears up after a performance by the Big Spring High School and Sweetwater High School’s bands during halftime in the playoff game between Andrews high School and Springtown High School Monday, Nov. 22, 2021 at the Mustang Bowl in Sweetwater.
Randy Knelsen with Seminole Fire Department, left, and Brendyn LeBlanc of Seminole place pork chops on the grill during a lunch fundraiser for Andrews High School Band Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2021, in the Mustang Bowl parking lot in Andrews. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
High school bands from across West Texas perform with Andrews High School Band in the Andrews Christmas Parade down Main Street Friday, Dec 3, 2021, in Andrews. The Andrews High School band was involved in a fiery Nov. 19 crash that left its band director Darin Johns and longtime retired teacher Marc Boswell dead.(Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Odessa Police Department Chief Michael Gerke helps Brooklyn Silvas, 6, drop a five-dollar bill in his kettle as he rings the bell to help raise money for the Salvation Army outside of a Walmart Super Center Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021 in Odessa. (Odessa American File Photo)
Santa waves from his sleigh as he marks the end of Downtown Odessa and the City of Odessa Parks & Recreation Department’s Parade of Lights Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021 in Odessa.
The Odessa High School Bronchos celebrate from the bench after their teammate Joshua Austin (24) scored the first points of his high school career in the final seconds against Reagan County high School Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2021 at the Odessa High School Fieldhouse.
Odessa High School’s head coach Marcus Chapa talks to the Lady Bronchos during a timeout in the first half against Lubbock Trinity Christian Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2021 at the Odessa High School Fieldhouse.
Permian Basin Rehab Center poster child Sophie Madrid, 7, right, crawls through a tunnel using only her arms as she undergoes one of her two weekly physical therapy sessions Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2021 at the Permian Basin Rehab Center.
Students that participate in the People Pride, Inc. scholarship bow their head in prayer after John Bushman, center right, read the story of Christmas to students and their families Tuesday Dec. 14, 2021, at Calvary Cross. Students that participate in the People Pride, Inc. scholarship program are encouraged to maintain good grades, attendance and behavior during their elementary and secondary school educations. Those that are successful have an opportunity to receive a full scholarship to a state university. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
John Bushman, center, welcomes everyone who came out to hear the story of Christmas read to students that participate in the People Pride, Inc. scholarship program Tuesday Dec. 14, 2021, at Calvary Cross. The scholarship program encourages students to maintain good grades, attendance and behavior during their elementary and secondary school educations. Those that are successful have an opportunity to receive a full scholarship to a state university. (Jacob Ford|Odessa American)
Owner of Matt’s Tree Trimming and Removal Matthew Speer fells a pine tree to help make room for the construction of Odessa College’s new James Segrest Stadium Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 in Odessa, Texas.
Blue Santa, portrayed by Ector County Independent School District Officer Matt Gonzales, waits to hand off a present to Kaitlyn Kirk, second from right, and her daughter Zaeli Fletcher, 6, as he delivers gifts to families in need with the ECISD Police Department Friday, Dec. 17, 2021 at the Marvin Gardens Apartments.
Kim Pharaoh cuddles Jane, a 5 to 6 week-old husky/Labrador mix at Odessa Animal Control’s Pet a Puppy event Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2021 in Odessa, Texas. Odessa Animal Control partnered with United way to host a free adoption event at City Hall while asking for donations to the United Way of Odessa.
Shepherd Debbie McReynolds, second from right, chats with her grandson before the start of Second Baptist Church’s Live Nativity production Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2021 at Second Baptist Church.
Latshaw drilling rig #19 operates in the midst of a cotton field Monday, Dec. 27, 2021 in Stanton, Texas. According to the United States Geological Survey, at approximately 7:55 p.m. the Texas Seismological Network detected a 4.5 magnitude earthquake 11 miles north of Stanton.
