Good morning, Longview.

Longview Parks and Recreation removed the damaged playset at Broughton Park and is now bringing in new equipment—starting with a VistaRope Race system that will arrive within the next month.

County musician Joe Nichols will headline the Great Texas Balloon Race at the Longview Convention Complex from June 13 to 15, with Bag of Donuts performing on June 13 and opening acts Untold Story and Sheila and the Caddo Kats on June 13 and June 14 respectively.

After the Bill Bussey Balloon Glow on June 13 and 14, organizers will treat crowds to a 3D drone show with 350 drones lighting up the sky each night—adding a unique visual element to the festival.

The Pilot Club of Longview held its annual Celebrity Read-a-Thon earlier this month at Birch Elementary School to honor first-year life skills teacher Makayla Adame for her work with special education students.

Local leaders read to students and a $500 check (to add books and resources) was presented to school librarian Vanessa Reneau.

On Wednesday, the Texas House voted 144-4 to initially approve a bill that would raise school districts' base funding per student by $395 and increase teacher salaries while limiting the use of educators without formal training—special education funding will be tailored to student needs and the bill will move to the Senate for further review.

The City of Longview and the Juneteenth Planning Committee are seeking nominations for the Juneteenth Parade Grand Marshal on June 14.

Community members can submit nominations online to help choose the parade's featured leader.

Mayor Kristen Ishihara and Longview firefighters have backed incumbent Councilwoman Michelle Gamboa for a second three-year term in District 5 in the May 3 election.

A $3,000 donation from the firefighter political action committee broke state law rules due to an unset treasurer — Gamboa leads in funds while challenger Jody Berryhill gets support from former Mayor Murray Moore and Pine Tree ISD's Steve Clugston.

An Upshur County sheriff’s deputy was commended Tuesday for saving a man’s life during a March drug overdose in Gilmer—Deputy Lucrecia Davidson was first on scene, used Narcan, and performed life-saving measures that helped stabilize him at a local hospital.

Guthrie Creek Open Pickleball Tournament

8 AM – 8 PM — Guthrie Park — Proceeds benefit the local pickleball community — Enjoy spirited competition at the fifth annual tournament hosted by the Longview Pickleball Club.

Longview Symphony Orchestra Concert

7 PM — Belcher Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience an evening of classical music performed by the Longview Symphony Orchestra.

One-Night Event with Kevin and Kathi Zadai

6:30-9:30 p.m. — Breakthru Church — Free entry — Experience an evening of fellowship and inspiring teachings.

Annual Mobberly Family Services Rummage Sale

8 AM - 2 PM — Longview Exhibit Center — Supports local community services — Browse unique finds at this beneficial charity sale.

Monster Energy Recon Tour

11 a.m. – 10 p.m. — Ingram Park — Free entry — Experience thrilling BMX action as athletes showcase their skills in a fun, community-focused event.

Easter Sale 20% OFF Donated Items

Get 20% OFF on all donated items, including new cabinets, building materials, furniture, and appliances. Now through Saturday, April 19.