Good morning, Longview.

Kenny Ree-Hembling, a Canadian aspiring firefighter, attended Kilgore College Fire Academy and stayed at the Gladewater Fire Department (January to April) to get on-the-job training and build close ties with local firefighters.

He earned the nickname (Canada) from his colleagues, flew home after class ended, and may return for more training in the future.

Area nonprofits will get a boost from East Texas Giving Day as the 18-hour online fundraiser starts at 6 a.m. Tuesday with 362 nonprofits and $1 million in matching funds available + donors can double their gift if they donate before midnight on April 29.

State report cards show that four local school districts earned a B, one got an A and one received a C for the 2022-23 school year—Spring Hill ISD led with an A while Gladewater ISD fell to a C, and officials said the new grading standards changed past comparisons.

Kilgore High School senior Harley Wells won a regional poetry contest yesterday at the Poetry and Schools competition organized by Young Audiences of Northeast Texas and the Rusk County Poetry Society to mark National Poetry Month.

Her winning poem 'Veterinarian' earned her a $500 scholarship — funds she will use to start her veterinary studies at Kilgore College before transferring to Tyler Junior College.

The $1 billion school choice bill SB 2 was approved after House amendments and is expected to be signed by Governor Abbott—it will go into effect in September.

Some local districts, including Lindale and Bullard ISDs, oppose the measure because they say it shifts funds from public schools to private vouchers amid political pressure.

Longview city approved a temporary deal with Northeast Texas Regional Materials Recovery Facility — in Kilgore — to bring back curbside recycling after a year-long pause caused by a fire at Rivers Recycling.

Residents are asked to sort recyclables now while sanitation teams practice routes, and more details on the restart will come later.

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.

Concert Under the Stars Sock Hop Party

7:30-11 p.m. — Kokomo Theatre — Snack bar available — Enjoy a night of 50's themed music and classic films under the stars.