Good morning, Longview.

SWEPCO warned customers on June 5th not to trust calls or emails asking for personal or financial information and said its representatives never demand immediate payment—residents should verify their account status online if contacted unexpectedly.

Titanic explorer Mark Lach visited East Texas last month to share his dive story from the Titanic Exhibit in Dallas—highlighting interactive recreations and historical facts about the ship—and explaining how personal artifacts, like first-class China, survived the tragedy.

Eastman Library Plaza will host an alcohol ink art workshop for adults this summer — the session uses ceramic tiles for coasters and provides supplies while participants must dress for safety with flammable materials.

Signup is required due to limited space — all details were provided in advance.

The East Texas Council of Governments received a $250k grant from the Texas Veterans Commission to fund GoBus rides for veterans in 14 counties.

The grant will help provide rides to grocery stores, meetings and health appointments—veterans, their spouses, dependents, survivor spouses and active military will benefit.

The City Council met to discuss a proposed amphitheater near I-20 that could host over 30 concerts per year and create more than 200 local jobs—project lead Steve Powers said the venue is aimed to open by 2027.

Council members asked detailed questions and noted that more information is needed to support the project.

East Texans are invited to give box fans to help cool homes and lower bills this summer — the Beat the Heat Fan Drive by People Attempting to Help aims to protect older residents and children from heat risks.

Donations of up to 10 fans at $25 each will be accepted online to support families in need.

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.

City of Longview Fireworks & Freedom Celebration

4-10:30 p.m. — Maude Cobb Convention Center — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with a free concert and the biggest fireworks show in East Texas.