Researchers recently traced the birthplace of the world's dominant cotton species to the Yucatán Peninsula in Mexico. Their sleuthing also uncovered a treasure trove of genetic diversity in wild populations, which could eventually make the crop more resilient.

Former Lubbock city councilmember Randy Christian died over the weekend at 74 years old. It is Texas Free College Application Week, and our Charley Maranville reports that Texas Tech University is offering opportunities for prospective undergraduate and graduate students. Texas Residents can to apply to undergraduate programs at ApplyTexas.org. Those interested in TTU graduate programs can find more information here. Lubbock’s annual Pumpkin Trail will be opening this weekend, Friday through Sunday. Donations of carved or decorated pumpkins can be made at the Lubbock Memorial Arboretum tomorrow, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.