Good morning, Longview.

On Friday, Hudson PEP Elementary held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for its 22nd book vending machine—created through a partnership between Greater Longview United Way and First National Bank of East Texas.

The new machine rewards students with tokens for books and aims to boost literacy, while officials declared Aug. 29 as Hudson PEP Read To Succeed Day.

Lucas Stevens, wanted for multiple felony warrants, wrecked his vehicle and carjacked a car in Longview before an intense multi-county manhunt led authorities to find him dead in Smith County—he died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The Beckville ISD community is mourning junior high student Jose Mercado who died Thursday morning—local support grew as the Panola County Chamber of Commerce turned its building blue and other districts expressed condolences.

Texas High defeated Legacy 57-43 in Thursday’s season opener at CHRISTUS Trinity Mother Frances Rose Stadium — the game experienced a lightning delay and featured quarterback Wrightner throwing for 288 yards and five touchdowns; Legacy, now 0-1, will host Tyler High next week while Texas High will welcome Argyle Liberty Christian in its next home game.

Joseph Ventura scored two rushing touchdowns and the Spring Hill Panthers built a big lead to win 38-13 over the Sabine Cardinals on Friday at James Bamburg Stadium.

The win made up for a close loss last year — and Spring Hill will visit Center next week while Sabine plays in Harmony.

San Augustine shut out Beckville 19-0 on Thursday night after a lightning delay and a scoreless first half—scoring all its points in the second half while Beckville struggled with turnovers.

Beckville now prepares to face 2A Division I Joaquin next Thursday at 7 p.m. as coach Cody Ross seeks fixes for his team’s finishing issues.

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.

Barrels & Brews with ShopOrama

10 AM – 5 PM — Maude Cobb Convention Center — No tickets needed to shop — Enjoy craft brews, live music, and unique shopping for a great cause.

East Texas CASA Superhero 5K & Fun Run

7-10 a.m. — Triple Creek Shopping Center — Registration fees apply — Enjoy a fun morning of fitness and community spirit while supporting children in foster care.

Neal McCoy Concert

7 PM - 1 AM — Belcher Center — Tickets from $69 — Enjoy a night of country tunes with Neal McCoy in Longview.