Good morning, Longview.

This weekend, many events will take place in East Texas – Oktoberfest in Tyler has German food, live music, games, and family competitions while a Sickle Cell Blood Drive, horse competitions, and various fundraisers offer more activities.

Longview residents can also enjoy local improv, cultural celebrations, and a plant sale to meet new friends and enjoy a fun-filled weekend.

The Longview Chamber of Commerce hosted the State of the Workforce Luncheon on Wednesday, where local technical programs and businesses met to connect graduates with job opportunities.

The event featured HVAC, welding, automotive and cosmetology programs—giving students a chance to secure jobs after graduation.

East Texas communities mark Hispanic Heritage Month with free events including Culture Fest in Longview at Heritage Plaza on Oct.

11 and Oct. 12—featuring musical acts, vendors and activities. The celebration began on Sept. 15 and follows Gov. Greg Abbott’s proclamation honoring the influence of Hispanic culture in Texas.

Larry Stephenson and his Bluegrass Band will open the Fall Concert Series at the Longview Arboretum and Nature Center on Oct.

2, starting a Thursday series throughout October. Doors open at 5 p.m. and music starts at 6 p.m. — adults pay $10 while children from 7 to 12 pay $5, and guests may bring chairs, blankets, and refreshments.

Gladewater High School junior Ethan Alvarez won the grand championship at the Four States Fair with his Brahman cow — the first student win in school history — and he will prepare for the East Texas Yamboree competition in two weeks.

Today marks 20 years since Hurricane Rita hit the Texas-Louisiana border with strong winds and heavy rain that forced millions to evacuate.

Survivors and a storm expert remember long hours stuck in traffic and a night filled with roaring winds—memories that still shape how people see severe storms.

Judge Milton K. Adams announced Tuesday he will retire after finishing his current term as Justice of the Peace for Precinct 4—he served East Texas for 47 years and urged residents to learn about candidates for his seat in the upcoming election.

On September 24, a state agency awarded $1,985,000 in grants to seven veteran service organizations in East Texas that help with housing, healthcare and transportation—projects include $250,000 for local transit services in Longview.

The funds were part of a statewide program distributing $46M to support 40,000 veterans and their families.

Longview High School tennis team rolled to a 19-0 win over North Forney on Tuesday in District 10-6A play, boosting its district record to 3-2 and overall record to 8-10.

The team will play at Pleasant Grove on Friday + they plan to build on this strong performance.

The Kilgore College Rangers defeated Nelson University 9-4 on Tuesday as Mary Newville had five hits and three RBIs while Jasmine Gallegos added three hits and an RBI.

The team collected 23 hits with six pitchers used — they will visit Grambling on Thursday.

LeTourneau volleyball became the first team to win a SCAC contest when the YellowJackets won all three sets against the Centenary Ladies (25-11, 25-22, 25-14) on September 24th.

The team will host Ozarks in a SCAC matchup Saturday at 1 p.m.

Neal McCoy Concert

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

#TheNinaEffect 5k & Fundraiser

3-5 p.m. — 20148 FM 449, Longview, TX — Registration Fees — Participate in a 5K nature trail run and dog walk to support community pets through essential funding.

Monster Truck Wars

12:00 – 1:30 p.m. — Longview Rodeo Arena — Tickets starting at $80 — Experience the thrill of massive trucks battling it out in an unforgettable showdown.

"Pink Heals" for Breast Cancer

Honoring all breast cancer survivors with a pink rose presentation and opportunity to sign your name on the Pink Heals Firetruck. From 11:00-1:00 with a light lunch served at noon, Women's Health Boutique, 605 N Sixth St, Longview, call 903-758-9904 for reservations.

Ruthie Foster Live Performance

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Longview Museum of Fine Arts — Tickets required — Experience the eclectic and vibrant musical journey of Ruthie Foster in an intimate setting.

Longview Gridiron Blitz Sale

9:30 AM – 11:59 PM — Alliance Auto Auction Longview — Free entry — Score big with great deals on cars and Cowboys-themed giveaways.

Glen Templeton Live

9-11 p.m. — Reo Stage — $20-$40 — Glen Templeton brings his country music vibes to Longview with special guest REO.