Good morning, Longview.

Longview Fire Department responded last Sunday to a fire at the Alpha Omega Recycling facility on 315 Whatley Road after workers saw smoke from chemicals, and firefighters contained the blaze—resulting in about $50,000 in damage with no injuries reported.

East Texas Drug Emporium locations stay open even though West Virginia stores owned by another company are closing, and the Longview-based Gibson Sales runs outlets in Abilene, Amarillo, Lafayette, Little Rock, Longview, Lubbock, Shreveport, Tyler & Waco.

The business said they are open, thriving and ready to serve customers.

Francisco Garcia Casique, a 24-year-old barber from Longview, was deported to a maximum security prison in El Salvador in March after federal immigration officials arrested him—his mother insists he is innocent and was wrongly linked to a gang.

Longview Public Library is hosting Silent Library Games for the Adult Summer Reading Club on June 14 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.—participants in teams of 3 to 6 will sign up to win prizes by completing fun, quiet challenges.

Longview’s Summer Reading Club 2025 offers free daily programs — inviting kids and families to enjoy activities like sensory play, video games, story time, bingo, local performances, movie screenings, crafts, board games, and a LEGO challenge.

The events are held at various venues such as the library and local community centers to accommodate different age groups.

East Texas leaders will announce plans for America’s 250th birthday celebration at 10:00 a.m. on June 26 at the Gregg County Courthouse.

Gregg County Judge Bill Stoudt + area mayors will share details about upcoming events + and explain how residents can join the festivities.

The City of Longview announced today it will demolish the old Fire Training Tower at Stamper Park at 500 Fair St. and Nelson to remove the tower, canopy, and training prop and clean up the site.

The demolition is made possible by the new Fire Training Center at 2212 Eastman Road — now fully operational — and aims to improve safety in the residential area.

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.

East Texas Comic Con

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Longview Exhibit Center — Tickets available soon — Show and meet special guests, browse vendors and artists, participate in panels, and showcase your cosplay skills.