Good morning, Longview.

CHRISTUS Health hosted a Christmas event Friday at Good Shepherd Hospital to lift the spirits of children spending the holidays in the hospital — a SWAT team dressed as Santa Claus and his elves repelled down the side of the building to deliver gifts and cheer.

Braum’s second Longview restaurant opened at 6 a.m. Dec.

19 at 280 N. Spur 63 near Kroger. The 6,000 sqft store features a Fresh Market, indoor seating for 80, and double drive-thru lanes, while a grand opening celebration runs Jan. 5-11 with a free ice cream event on Jan. 10.

Longview ISD awarded more than $3.17 million in performance-based incentive pay yesterday through its LIFT program that rewards academic success.

The awards included over $2.58 million for academic distinction and $549,890 for teacher growth, benefiting hundreds of staff.

Texas 300 between Longview and Gilmer is in its final phase of resurfacing, with crews applying final pavement layers on roughly (9 miles) of roadway.

The nearly $23 million project, managed by Madden Contracting, is expected to finish in April.

The Overton Lady Mustangs lost 43-37 to Cushing in their District opener on Thursday while trailing 22-16 at halftime and briefly leading in the third + the team is set to play a road game at Hughes Springs on Monday.

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.

HERPS Longview Exotic Reptile and Pet Expo

10 AM - 5 PM — Longview Exhibit Center — Admission details unavailable — Explore a wide range of reptiles and exotic animals with educational activities for all ages.