Good morning, Longview.

Stores in Tyler are seeing a boost in back-to-school shopping as tax-free weekend sales draw hundreds of customers, with Academy and other retailers reporting high traffic and fast-selling backpacks.

Shoppers from areas like Whitehouse & Longview are taking advantage of the deals as employees work hard to keep up with the demand.

Business Beat covers several local business updates.

Amanda Boyter opened The Ro (men's boutique and tattoo shop) at 208 N. Center St. on Friday while a $150,000 permit was issued for Sprouts Farmers Market demolition in North Loop Plaza, Treasure Hunters bin store opened at 1905 W. Loop 281 with prices dropping from $10 to $1, Arabella of Kilgore started renovating its memory care section, and Hawkins Crossing retail center sold for over $2.8 million.

East Texas man Wesley Worl, 45, was arrested Thursday after police said he approached two young girls near a Tyler elementary school last month while wearing only a diaper and pacifier and making lewd comments—he was booked on charges of criminal solicitation of a minor and criminal trespass with a $600,000 bond.

Seven high school students from Longview attended the American Legion Texas Boys State program in June at UT Austin — they learned about government, leadership, and civics by serving in mock government roles.

The weeklong experience helped them build skills in communication and decision-making.

Dove season begins on Sept.

1 and will be followed by Teal and early Canada Goose seasons, and local wingshooting enthusiasts are advised to practice during cooler hours to warm up their shotguns—especially new ones needing a break-in before the busy season.

The 2025 high school volleyball season will begin Monday for some teams and Tuesday for most as Longview Lady Lobos head coach Chaka Jackson returns eight players from a 16-win season - a sign of strong local talent entering play.

Longview FGHT Prayer Brunch

10 AM - 12 PM — Holiday Inn Longview - North by IHG — Free entry — A morning of prayer, fellowship, and delicious food awaits participants.

Gregg County Fair

6-11 p.m. — Longview Exhibit Center — $6 General Admission — Experience the vibrant community spirit at the annual Gregg County Fair with fun activities for all ages.

Medal Madness 5K, 10K, 15K, and Half Marathon

8 AM – 12 PM — Paul Boorman Trail Park — Registration required — Compete in a variety of races and earn your medal at this local running event.