Daily editionThursday, February 19th, 2026
Good morning, Lubbock.
The Daily Lubbock Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 19th of February.
Community
Today, the Lubbock VA Clinic hosts a free mobile food pantry for veterans from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the clinic’s front parking lot (3510 4th St.) in partnership with the South Plains Food Bank.
KCBDRead more
The Lubbock Chamber announced major changes to Hub City BBQ, reimagining it as a two-day event at Cook's Garage.
Members will network during a Ribs and Raiders night on the first day while a cookoff with judging will replace the former public party on the second day.
KFYORead more
The Lubbock County Sheriff’s Office is launching a program using Tonies dolls to let inmates record bedtime stories for their children at the Detention Center.
The effort aims to strengthen bonds and break generational cycles — ten inmates are already participating.
KCBDRead more
Culture
Lubbock’s beloved Hill Barbeque, which closed mid-2024, will host a monthly pop-up cookout on March 14 at 1219 132nd Street + fans are urged to pre-order plates online to enjoy their famous smoked meats and smash burgers.
KKAMRead more
Today, Bubba’s 33 hosts a Daddy Daughter Dance in Lubbock, where families enjoy a buffet dinner, live DJ, and fun activities; tickets are $20 for dad and one daughter and $10 for each extra daughter (RSVP required).
KFYORead more
Education
Cicely Alexander turned an eight week internship into a 35 year career in West Texas education at Lubbock ISD, where she now leads college readiness programs and was honored as the YWCA Women of Excellence recipient during Black History Month.
KCBDRead more
Government
Governor Abbott announced Wednesday that Texas Tech received $149 million for an EMP testing site and cybersecurity upgrades + the university will partner with military and federal agencies to boost national research and workforce training in Lubbock.
KCBDRead more
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller declared an agricultural emergency Tuesday to aid wildfire victims in West Texas and the Panhandle.
The state activated the STAR Fund (relief grants, hay assistance, and mental health support) while urging Texans to donate and help affected producers.
FOX34Read more
Crews at West Texas State Veterans Cemetery continued progress after postponing its December 2025 opening as they install new landscaping, complete buildings, and near finishing the committal shelter and columbarium to honor fallen soldiers.
The site is using extra time to perfect every detail before opening.
KCBDRead more
Lifestyle
Simple Simon's Pizza in Lubbock, located next to Harbor Freight Tools, offers a fun retro vibe and friendly service run by an ex-Marine.
The restaurant provides carryout + delivery and dine-in options, with locals praising its Supreme slice as a tasty twist on a classic favorite.
KFYORead more
Sports
The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters will perform live at United Supermarkets Arena in Lubbock on March 29 at 3 p.m. The show will feature trick shots, gravity-defying dunks and playful comedy that promise a fun family outing.
KKAMRead more
Lubbock Events
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.
Needtobreathe Concert
Sunday, March 1st, 2026 · 7:30-9:30 p.m. — Buddy Holly Hall — Ticket info available online — Enjoy an evening of live music by Needtobreathe in Lubbock's premier venue.
Casey James Solo Acoustic
Friday, March 6th, 2026 · 7:30-9:30 p.m. — Cactus Theater — Ticket prices TBD — Experience an acoustic night with Casey James and special guest Chad Miller, blending blues, jazz, and country sounds.
Larry Gatlin Concert
Friday, March 13th, 2026 · 7:30-9:30 p.m. — Cactus Theater — $37.50-$85 — Enjoy an evening with Grammy-winning country singer Larry Gatlin as he performs live in Lubbock.
Jody Nix and The Texas Cowboys Live Concert
Saturday, March 14th, 2026 · 7:30-9:30 p.m. — Cactus Theater — $25-$50 — Experience the legendary Jody Nix and his Texas Cowboys in a night of traditional country and western swing music.