Good morning, Longview.

After more than 230 years, the U.S. Mint pressed its final circulating penny on November 23—no new pennies will be made even though the coin remains legal tender.

Local businesses may soon adjust cash transactions as the number of pennies slowly falls from circulation.

Spring Hill ISD teachers and counselors noticed a growing need for food support and launched a fundraiser for the Backpack Program that sends nonperishable items to more than 90 students on weekends and holiday breaks.

The program also gives high school students work skills as they assemble the bags — rising food costs and a pause in SNAP benefits have increased demand.

Longview High alumna Maggie Mayes became her FFA chapter’s first National Champion — her nonprofit built over 20 Free Little Libraries that have given more than 3,000 books to local children and families.

Other school news includes Pine Tree High’s band finishing 15th at state championships, five students earning the AP Capstone Diploma — and a Hallsville student winning a national speech and debate award.

A local expert advised a homeowner whose lawn and her neighbor’s yard were overrun by Virginia buttonweed to remove seed capsules and apply a mix of 2,4-D and other broadleaf herbicides early next growing season—counsel aimed at curbing the invasive spread.

Longview Mall Christmas Tree Lighting

2-6 p.m. — Longview Mall — Free entry — Celebrate the holiday season with a festive tree lighting, local vendors, and family fun.

Peppermint Land Holiday Expo

10 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Longview Exhibit Center — Free entry with RSVP — Celebrate the festive season with shopping, food, and enchanting holiday characters.

Longview Code and Coffee Meetup

2-4 p.m. — Silver Grizzly Espresso — Free entry — A relaxed environment to code, learn, and sip coffee with fellow developers.