EAST TEXAS NEWS REPORT FOR THURSDAY, JULY 24th
Jul 24, 03:10 PM
Share
Subscribe
Dangerously high temperatures continue across East Texas, with heat indices reaching between 110 and 115 degrees in many areas. Emergency cooling centers remain open across Smith, Wood, Van Zandt, and Henderson counties. Rural residents and the elderly are especially urged to stay indoors, hydrate, and avoid prolonged sun exposure. Energy companies report rolling blackouts may be necessary if consumption spikes again this evening.
In Grand Saline, crews are working to repair water lines damaged during expansion on the north end of town. Residents along Highway 110 near Van are experiencing reduced pressure and are asked to conserve water through the weekend. City officials say a full restoration is expected by late Saturday.
Mineola ISD held a town hall meeting Wednesday night to address growing concerns over new curriculum materials being introduced this fall. Parents packed the auditorium, voicing frustration over digital textbooks and AI-assisted learning programs. The district says all content meets state guidelines, but parents are calling for a review committee that includes community members.
Over in Canton, the city council has approved the purchase of body cameras for all city police officers. This move follows increased demand for transparency in local law enforcement after a viral incident involving a disputed traffic stop earlier this month. The new cameras are expected to be deployed by September.
In Tyler, a major fire broke out at a warehouse near Loop 323 Wednesday afternoon. Firefighters from multiple departments battled the blaze for hours in triple-digit heat. No injuries were reported, but the structure is considered a total loss. Investigators believe the cause may be electrical, but arson has not been ruled out.
Longview’s water treatment facility is undergoing emergency maintenance after a chemical imbalance was detected early Thursday morning. Water remains safe to drink, but residents may notice a strong chlorine odor for the next 24 hours. The city assures the public that all levels are within EPA standards.
A new jobs report shows that East Texas is continuing to recover economically, with job growth strongest in healthcare, construction, and energy sectors. However, small businesses across Wood and Upshur counties are struggling with hiring shortages, particularly in trades and hospitality. Local leaders are pushing for expanded vocational training partnerships with Tyler Junior College and Kilgore College.
In Lindale, construction continues on the new community events center along FM 849. The facility, which will house indoor sports, senior activities, and town meetings, is set to open in early 2026. City leaders say it represents a major investment in Lindale’s growth and civic life.
Henderson County officials are warning of increased scam activity targeting senior citizens, with fraudsters posing as utility workers or Medicare agents. Several residents in Athens and Brownsboro have already fallen victim. Law enforcement advises the public to verify all visitors and never give out personal information unless confirmed.
On the faith and family front, churches across East Texas are preparing for late summer revivals and outreach events. Grand Saline First Baptist will host a youth worship night Friday, while Tyler's Rose Heights Church is launching a region-wide prayer campaign called Stand in the Gap, urging Christians to intercede for America’s spiritual direction.
In sports, high school football practice is officially underway across the region. Coaches from Grand Saline, Mineola, Van, and Edgewood all report strong turnout and high morale. Scrimmages begin next week, with season openers kicking off in mid-August.
And finally, the East Texas State Fair announced it will feature a brand-new Gospel Music Showcase on opening weekend this year. Regional and national Christian artists will take the main stage, and fair officials are expecting a record turnout.
Thanks for tuning in. Stay tuned to KRRB Revelation Radio for continuing coverage of the people, stories, and events shaping East Texas.
In Grand Saline, crews are working to repair water lines damaged during expansion on the north end of town. Residents along Highway 110 near Van are experiencing reduced pressure and are asked to conserve water through the weekend. City officials say a full restoration is expected by late Saturday.
Mineola ISD held a town hall meeting Wednesday night to address growing concerns over new curriculum materials being introduced this fall. Parents packed the auditorium, voicing frustration over digital textbooks and AI-assisted learning programs. The district says all content meets state guidelines, but parents are calling for a review committee that includes community members.
Over in Canton, the city council has approved the purchase of body cameras for all city police officers. This move follows increased demand for transparency in local law enforcement after a viral incident involving a disputed traffic stop earlier this month. The new cameras are expected to be deployed by September.
In Tyler, a major fire broke out at a warehouse near Loop 323 Wednesday afternoon. Firefighters from multiple departments battled the blaze for hours in triple-digit heat. No injuries were reported, but the structure is considered a total loss. Investigators believe the cause may be electrical, but arson has not been ruled out.
Longview’s water treatment facility is undergoing emergency maintenance after a chemical imbalance was detected early Thursday morning. Water remains safe to drink, but residents may notice a strong chlorine odor for the next 24 hours. The city assures the public that all levels are within EPA standards.
A new jobs report shows that East Texas is continuing to recover economically, with job growth strongest in healthcare, construction, and energy sectors. However, small businesses across Wood and Upshur counties are struggling with hiring shortages, particularly in trades and hospitality. Local leaders are pushing for expanded vocational training partnerships with Tyler Junior College and Kilgore College.
In Lindale, construction continues on the new community events center along FM 849. The facility, which will house indoor sports, senior activities, and town meetings, is set to open in early 2026. City leaders say it represents a major investment in Lindale’s growth and civic life.
Henderson County officials are warning of increased scam activity targeting senior citizens, with fraudsters posing as utility workers or Medicare agents. Several residents in Athens and Brownsboro have already fallen victim. Law enforcement advises the public to verify all visitors and never give out personal information unless confirmed.
On the faith and family front, churches across East Texas are preparing for late summer revivals and outreach events. Grand Saline First Baptist will host a youth worship night Friday, while Tyler's Rose Heights Church is launching a region-wide prayer campaign called Stand in the Gap, urging Christians to intercede for America’s spiritual direction.
In sports, high school football practice is officially underway across the region. Coaches from Grand Saline, Mineola, Van, and Edgewood all report strong turnout and high morale. Scrimmages begin next week, with season openers kicking off in mid-August.
And finally, the East Texas State Fair announced it will feature a brand-new Gospel Music Showcase on opening weekend this year. Regional and national Christian artists will take the main stage, and fair officials are expecting a record turnout.
Thanks for tuning in. Stay tuned to KRRB Revelation Radio for continuing coverage of the people, stories, and events shaping East Texas.