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Committee unveils Odessa Centennial logo, council backs yearlong plan and names council representative
Summary
A city committee presented a proposed yearlong Centennial celebration (April 2026–April 2027), unveiled a logo by artist Celeste Canero, and received informal council support to proceed; Mayor and council signaled support and nominated Councilman Steve Thompson as the council’s representative to the committee.
The Odessa Centennial Celebration Committee presented a proposed yearlong schedule and logo to mark the city’s 100th anniversary in April 2027 and asked the council for permission to proceed with planning and outreach.
Committee members described a timeline beginning with a kickoff in April 2026 and culminating in a three‑day finale in April 2027. Proposed activities include monthly community events hosted by civic organizations, a finale with concerts and food events, memorabilia and fundraising, outreach to schools and businesses, and a possible legacy project such as a time capsule. The committee said it intends to invite civic organizations, schools, hospitals, colleges, businesses and volunteers to lead or host monthly events and to form subcommittees for logistics and sponsorships.
The committee unveiled a logo created by artist Celeste Canero that incorporates West Texas imagery — a cowboy hat, pump jack, sunset, prickly pear cactus and a tumbleweed — and said the artwork was donated under an artwork release the city attorney reviewed. Committee members named staff and community volunteers on the committee including Stephanie Garai (deputy city secretary), Laura Martz (Discover Odessa director), Daniel Gutierrez (recreation superintendent), Marissa Rodriguez (director of purchasing), John Rogers (interim parks and recreation director), Laura Potter (senior admin to fire rescue) and others.
Council members expressed broad support during the workshop. The mayor nominated Councilman Steve Thompson to serve as the council’s representative on the committee; Councilman Thompson accepted and the council signaled consensus to proceed. Committee chairs said they will develop a sponsorship packet, begin outreach to civic groups this fall and return with more detailed schedules and funding requests as events are finalized. No formal appropriation was made at the workshop.
Ending: The council gave informal consensus to proceed; staff and the committee will continue planning and return with sponsorship materials, event details and any budget requests as dates and events become firm.
