Good morning, Lubbock.

Don Jones, a World War II veteran and former teacher who taught in Levelland + Lubbock, turned 100 on Thursday.

He said his family and good health are his best gifts and urged everyone to be true to themselves.

Today, Lubbock residents can support first responders at the 10th annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive at South Plains Mall by voting for Lubbock police + firefighters and receiving a free t-shirt with two movie tickets when they donate from noon to 6 p.m. each day until Sunday; the department with the most votes will win bragging rights and a trophy.

The 10th annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive runs today through Sunday at South Plains Mall where donors can vote to support local police or firefighters.

Donors receive a free t-shirt and two movie tickets between noon and 6 p.m. daily, and the winning department earns bragging rights + a trophy.

This week marks the four-year anniversary of Lubbock County SWAT Commander Joshua Bartlett's death—he was shot during a Levelland standoff on July 15 when Omar Soto-Chavira allegedly fired at him, another deputy, and Shawn Wilson.

Area school districts partner with United Supermarkets for the 14th annual School Supply Drive and Fundraiser today at Lubbock locations—donations at the register through July 27 will help fund supplies for the new school year.

Area school districts have partnered with United Supermarkets for the 14th annual School Supply Drive and Fundraiser that begins today.

Shoppers can donate at the register at United, Market Street and Amigos locations through July 27 to support school supply purchases.

Yesterday, Lubbock honored Sgt. Kevin Cox, a 16-year officer accidentally shot during a standoff near 87th and Geneva in 2001 who died at the hospital.

His death led to changes in SWAT training and equipment—improvements the department says help prevent mistakes in the future.

Lubbock parents are trading screens for garden hoses to recreate the carefree 90s summer for their kids.

Local families plan to spend more time outdoors at parks and lakes—adding a nostalgic twist while experts note today’s children may need structured play.

Movies in the Park - The Wild Robot

6-10 p.m. — Mackenzie Main City Park — Free admission — Enjoy a family-friendly movie under the stars with lawn chairs and snacks.

SPKF Kidney Splash Fest 2025

12:30-2:30 a.m. — Leisure Pool (Rec Sports) — Donation-based entry — Walk, splash, and enjoy games while supporting kidney awareness in the West Texas area.

Gideon Concert

7 PM – 1 AM — Jake's Sports Cafe — Ticket prices vary — Experience a live performance by the band Gideon in Lubbock's vibrant music scene.

Marshall Charloff & The Purple Xperience Concert

7:30 – 9:00 PM — Cactus Theater — $30+ — Celebrate the 15th Anniversary Tour of The Purple Xperience with the authentic sounds of Prince.

Singles Meetup at The Plaza Restaurant

6-9 p.m. — The Plaza Restaurant & Bar — RSVP required — Enjoy delicious Mexican food while engaging in amusing conversations with other singles aged 55-75 in the Lubbock community.

The Ultimate Doors Tribute Show

7-8:30 p.m. — Cactus Theater — Tickets from $22.50 — Experience an authentic tribute to Jim Morrison and The Doors with a high-energy performance.

Movies in the Park - Despicable Me 4

6-10 p.m. — Rodgers Park — Free entry — Enjoy a family-friendly movie under the stars to cap off National Night Out.

Rock The Hill

5:00-7:15 p.m. — Cooks Garage — Free entry — Enjoy an uplifting outdoor Christian music event featuring multiple artists in West Texas.