Daily editionMonday, February 2nd, 2026
Good morning, Lubbock.
The Daily Lubbock Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Monday, the 2nd of February.
Culture
South Plains College’s Creative Arts Department will hold its fourth-annual Songwriter Competition on March 26 at 7 p.m. at the Levelland campus, with original song submissions due by Feb. 23 and finalists competing for awards including a performance spot at a local show.
KCBDRead more
Yesterday, locals remembered Commander Willie McCool on the 23rd anniversary of the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster that claimed seven lives.
His father said carrying forward the crew’s legacy remains very important for future generations.
KCBDRead more
Yesterday, Lubbock marked the 23rd anniversary of the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster by remembering local astronaut Willie McCool, one of the seven crew members who died.
His father said McCool's legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
FOX34Read more
Economy
TCEQ approved Pacifico Energy’s GW Ranch project, an 8,000-acre data center and gas power campus in Pecos County 17 miles north of Fort Stockton near Odessa.
The project will supply power by early 2027 and create thousands of jobs.
FOX34Read more
Several Lubbock employers are set to introduce a new trend called a peanut butter raise in 2026 that spreads salary increases more evenly to reduce favoritism.
Strong performance — still a priority — may bring slightly higher raises for top workers.
KFYORead more
Lifestyle
Today, Lubbock drivers use simple winter hacks to clear frozen locks and mirrors, applying hand sanitizer & covering mirrors with socks while avoiding risky ideas like pouring boiling water or rubbing potatoes on windshields.
KFYORead more
Lubbock Events
The Day the Music Died 2026
Tuesday, February 3rd, 2026 · 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Buddy Holly Center — Free entry — Commemorate the 67th anniversary of the tragic plane crash that took Buddy Holly and others with documentary screenings and family activities.
Journey Of A Lifetime - Tribute to Journey
Friday, February 6th, 2026 · 7:30-9:30 p.m. — Cactus Theater — $22.50-$50.00 — Experience an electrifying tribute that brings you the iconic hits of Journey live on stage.
Tango Llaneros: Noche de Tango
Friday, February 13th, 2026 · 7:30-9:30 p.m. — Cactus Theater — $25-$50 — Experience the passion of Argentine tango performed by a dedicated ensemble committed to education and outreach.
WWE: Road To Wrestlemania
Saturday, February 14th, 2026 · 7:30-8:30 p.m. — United Supermarkets Arena — VIP Packages Available — Experience a thrilling night with WWE Superstars and exclusive merchandise.
The Simon & Garfunkel Story
Sunday, February 15th, 2026 · 7-9 p.m. — Buddy Holly Hall — Ticket prices vary — Experience a captivating tribute to the music legends Simon & Garfunkel.
Children's Ballet Program
Thursday, February 19th, 2026 · 2-3 p.m. — George & Helen Mahon Public Library — Free entry — Dive into a magical world of dance and creativity with classical ballet fundamentals.
Haydon Wiginton Live Concert
Friday, February 20th, 2026 · 6:30-9:30 p.m. — JOHNNY VELVET TEES — General Admission and VIP options available — Experience West Texas stories in an intimate concert setting with Haydon Wiginton.
Reception for Former Saddle Tramps
Saturday, February 21st, 2026 · On Feb. 21 at the United Supermarkets Arena after the K-State men's basketball game, the Texas Tech Saddle Tramps will be hosting a reception for former Saddle Tramps and their families. Attendance is free.
Beginner Genealogy Class
Monday, February 23rd, 2026 · 7-8 p.m. — Mahon Library — Free entry — Crack your genealogical cases with creative strategies and community insights.
West Texas Robotics Championship
Saturday, February 28th, 2026 · 7:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. — Lubbock Memorial Civic Center — Free entry — Witness innovative robotics teams as they showcase their creations and compete for glory.