Good morning, Longview.

McWhorter Park in West Longview will soon have two new pickleball courts thanks to $300,000 from the Longview Economic Development Corp—City Council and local leaders say the upgrade will boost park activity—adding to other improvements made under the 2018 bond package.

Local veterans gathered at Parkview on Hollybrook senior living facility for an indoor Memorial Day ceremony after inclement weather canceled the city service, and they shared memories of fallen comrades with the American Legion Honor Guard of East Texas — honoring past sacrifices to secure freedom today. Many attendees, including retired servicemen, recalled personal losses and the impact of wartime events on their lives.

Lakeport will open its first city park on May 31 at 207 Milam Road next to the government building off Estes Parkway, with the grand opening starting at 10:30 a.m. The park cost about $500,000 from local sales taxes and will have a walking trail, play area and picnic tables — plans that resulted from years of work — and many residents are expected to attend.

Kilgore will host the Texas Shakespeare Festival—its 40th season—with local actors performing plays and musicals from June 26 through July 27; shows are set for 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Longview will host The Great Texas Balloon Race Festival from June 13-15, with competitive balloon races in the mornings and musical entertainment on Friday & Saturday afternoons when gates open at 4 pm.

Launch and landing sites will change daily based on wind and weather conditions.

Wholesale Market Tradeshow

1-10 p.m. — 1604 E Whaley St, Longview, TX — Free entry — Experience unbeatable deals at the ultimate indoor bargain shopping event.

Great Texas Balloon Race & Festival

7 PM – 11 PM — Longview Convention Complex — Check website for costs — Witness stunning balloon flights and enjoy musical entertainment throughout the festival.

iTRI365 - Up & Away Run & Ruck

1-3 p.m. — 1016 McCann Rd, Longview, TX — Entry fee applies — Experience a charitable run and ruck amidst the stunning Texas Balloon Race while supporting local recovery services.

MotoXtreme Circus Show

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Longview Rodeo Arena — Tickets from $10 — Experience an action-packed performance with thrilling circus acts.

On-Site Tour at Parkview Independent Living

9 AM - 7 PM — Parkview Independent Living — Free entry — Explore a vibrant community offering exceptional amenities and activities for seniors.

Jr. Robotics: VEX GO Camp

8 AM – 12 PM — LeTourneau University — Cost varies — A hands-on robotics camp where young campers explore STEM concepts and build their own robots.