News briefs

Davenport resigns from council position

HARRINGTON—Mayor Jess Silhan announced the departure of councilmember Peter Davenport at the City Council meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 14.

"It is with my greatest regret that with this letter," Silhan read, "I announce my resignation from my position as Harrington City Council member position number four."

Davenport cited health reasons for his departure.

The city budget will be completed and voted on by Wednesday, Dec. 28.

Chamber names new president

ODESSA—Matt Roberson was named the new Chamber of Commerce President at a chamber meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 13.

Roberson takes the place of former President Norman Ott, who held the position for two years.

Ed Deife was re-elected as Vice President, Paige Smith was named Secretary and Treasurer was named Larissa Zeiler.

Chuck Watkins and Justin Parr are also repeating their terms as directors. In addition, Hannah Schmidt was elected as a new board member.

Elected officers represent six Odessa businesses or organizations.

School district hopes for roof funding

DAVENPORT–School district staff is hoping that the state legislature will allot grant funding for necessary roofing and HVAC repairs and replacements at the high school here in the 2023 legislative session.

Recent snowfall created further issues with a roof that has needed work done for some time, facilities director Brian Telford told the school board Monday, Dec. 19.

The main issues were fixed, but future replacement is necessary, he said.

Superintendent Chad Prewitt said the district is eighth on a statewide priority list for a grant that would help fund such a project. The district requested $2.186 million for that grant, which would be during the 2023-25 cycle.

Blood donations a way to give this season

DAVENPORT–Those wishing to donate blood are invited to Lincoln Hospital on Tuesday, Dec. for the Holiday Heroes Blood Drive.

Blood products are needed for medical purposes every two seconds in the United States and blood supply shortages often occur during the busy holiday months.

The blood drive runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Vitalant bus that will be parked in the employee parking lot. Donors can make an appointment at donors.vitalant.org or call 877-258-4825.

Donors are asked to bring photo identification, drink plenty of fluids and eat a nutritious meal in the hour leading up to their donation.