Good morning, Longview.

The SPCA of East Texas in Tyler said it received $100,000 less in donations than expected and now needs help to stay open.

It is asking residents to donate online or in person today (at 3245 W. Grande Blvd) to avoid cuts in services that hurt the animals.

Christmas parades began across East Texas with some events held on December 1 and today in counties such as Panola, Rusk, and Smith—Longview will host its Downtown AMBUCS Christmas Parade on December 4, and more parades are planned in other counties through December 20.

These festive events aim to bring neighbors together as the holiday season unfolds.

BBB Wise Giving Alliance advises donors to research charities and review websites to ensure their contributions go to trustworthy groups today.

The tips follow last Thanksgiving weekend and help guide careful donations—avoiding scams and impulsive gifts.

East Texas organizations are gearing up for Giving Tuesday today by offering matching donation funds plus hosting local events like a GiveBack lunch and timed donation matches.

These efforts will support nonprofits serving food banks, animal care, and other community needs.

Owner Jud Murray will permanently close Longview’s Murray Jewelry at the end of December after more than 65 years in business.

The store at 2320 Judson Road is holding a going out of business sale as Murray prepares to retire and enjoy more time outdoors.

The Gregg County Master Gardeners will lead a free square foot gardening session on December 6 at the library to show local gardeners how to use raised beds to grow more in less space – the event runs from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

The District 16-3A All-District Volleyball Team for the 2025 season has been announced as Tatum’s Kamdyn Scott and Kaysen Foster share MVP honors, while White Oak’s Carrington Watson earned Newcomer of the Year and West Rusk’s Hannah Haffner was recognized as Hitter of the Year.

Tatum’s Leven Barker was named Coach of the Year, with district coaches conducting the voting.

The East Texas Volleyball All-Star Games will be held on Sunday, Dec.

7 at Spring Hill’s Panther Gymnasium with a small school match at 3 p.m. and a big school match at 5 p.m.—proceeds will help provide Christmas for needy families in East Texas.

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.

Bright! A Season of Lights

5:30 p.m. — Longview Arboretum and Nature Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical walk-through winter wonderland filled with sparkling lights and festive music.