Good morning, Lubbock.

A Starbucks at 6005 Slide closed permanently as part of a national restructuring plan—shuttering stores that did not meet company standards—which left loyal customers surprised and sparked questions about future closures amid rising local competition.

A national study by WalletHub found Corpus Christi is the best city in the U.S. for driving—its ranking comes from measuring 100 cities on factors like traffic flow and auto repair shops.

Texas cities such as Lubbock and Laredo also ranked highly in the study.

The new Texas Tech chancellor Brandon Creighton pledged to protect free speech and welcome all viewpoints at a TPUSA rally in south Lubbock Wednesday night—he said his door remains open to every opinion as he prepares to lead officially on November 19.

Today, the City of Lubbock was named a Tourism Friendly Destination by Travel Texas at Jake’s Sports Cafe — Mayor McBrayer accepted the award from state officials.

Lubbock is one of only two cities to earn all four tourism certifications — the honor comes after more than seven million visitors and nearly $1 billion in spending in 2024 and is expected to boost local tourism.

FC Traffic will close Avenue P from 33rd to 34th Street tomorrow—Atmos Energy will perform gas line work expected to finish by November 1 if the weather holds, and motorists are urged to use alternate routes and allow extra travel time.

Today the Lubbock Street Department began maintenance work on 19th Street between University and Avenue X and closed the westbound lanes—drivers are advised to take alternate routes as the work is expected to last about one day depending on weather.

Dr. Dharshana Krishna of UMC Children’s Hospital warned Lubbock families to watch for flu and RSV signs as cooler months approach, noting that children who stop eating or drinking and those who have trouble breathing need quick emergency care; the hospital will boost staffing on the pediatric and emergency floors + prepare for a busy flu season.

United Family pharmacies are offering flu, pneumonia and RSV immunizations now at locations including United Supermarkets, Market Street, Albertsons Market and Amigos.

Customers who receive a qualifying vaccine will get a coupon for up to $20 off their next grocery purchase and can walk in or schedule an appointment online.

Lubbock’s South Plains Rehabilitation Hospital has expanded its capacity by adding 26 beds and a new dayroom for group therapy and family visits—modernizing its facilities to help more patients recover from serious events like strokes.

John Robles reported making progress with therapy while CEO Beth Tucker said the expansion will support patients from across the region as they work to return home to their families.

Many Lubbock parents are crafting DIY Halloween costumes this October because a survey found 52% choose homemade outfits to save money—costs average under $40 compared to over $70 for store-bought options.

They also face social media pressure, with 81% saying they feel the need to make their kids' costumes Instagram-worthy.

Oncology Massage and Skin Care Course

October 10-12 — Oceans Massage — Course fee applicable — Gain foundational knowledge in oncology massage and skin care with expert instruction.

Texas Tech Red Raiders vs. Kansas Jayhawks

11:59 PM – 1:29 AM — Jones AT&T Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Watch a thrilling college football matchup as the Red Raiders host the Jayhawks.

Phil Wickham Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — United Supermarkets Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience uplifting worship music with Phil Wickham during the Air1 Worship Now Tour.

2025 SPKF FREE Kidney Disease Symposium

9 AM – 3 PM — CenterPointe Event Center — Free entry — Empower yourself with knowledge about kidney disease at this informative symposium.

Narnia Musical Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Moonlight Musicals Amphitheatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience C.S. Lewis's enchanting tale come to life in musical form.

2025 NPC West Texas Showdown

9 AM – 12 PM — Lubbock Memorial Civic Center — Cost details not provided — Witness the best in bodybuilding at this regional competition.

Colorado Buffaloes vs Texas Tech Red Raiders Women's Volleyball

6-7:30 p.m. — United Supermarkets Arena — Tickets available — Catch an exciting women's volleyball match featuring the Colorado Buffaloes taking on the Texas Tech Red Raiders.

CPTSC Conference 2025

12:00 AM — Texas Tech University — Free entry — Engage with leaders in technical and scientific communication at this annual conference.

The Kody Norris Show - Bluegrass Special

7-9 p.m. — Cactus Theater — $22.50-$54 — Experience a bluegrass revival with dynamic instrumentation and nostalgic charm from the talented Kody Norris Show.

Halloween Pub Crawl in Lubbock

4:30-9 p.m. — Tom's Daiquiri Place — Tickets required — Experience a thrilling Halloween pub crawl with contests, prizes, and spooky fun.