EAST TEXAS NEWS REPORT Weekend Edition – Friday, July 25 through Sunday, July 27, 2025
Jul 25, 07:02 PM
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EXTREME WEATHER ALERT
East Texas enters the weekend under an Excessive Heat Warning, with temperatures expected to peak near 108 degrees and heat indices potentially reaching 118. Emergency cooling shelters remain open in Tyler, Longview, Canton, and Athens. Authorities strongly urge residents to check on elderly neighbors and pets, avoid outdoor activities during the afternoon hours, and prepare for possible power fluctuations due to increased grid load.
COMMUNITY AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT
In Grand Saline, the city has finalized the location for a new community storm shelter and emergency command center. The facility will be located behind the city services building on Pacific Street and is expected to break ground by mid-August. City officials say the structure will also serve as a training hub for emergency preparedness.
Canton is moving forward with redevelopment plans for downtown. Several long-vacant buildings along Highway 64 are being assessed for renovation into small businesses and event spaces. The First Monday Trade Days grounds will see expanded lighting and accessibility improvements over the next three months.
Tyler’s mayor announced a partnership with regional food banks to address rising food insecurity across Smith County. With inflation driving up grocery costs, demand for assistance has surged. Mobile distribution events are scheduled this weekend at the Green Acres Baptist Church campus and the TISD career center.
Mineola's city council has unanimously approved a grant-funded infrastructure upgrade for downtown sidewalks, lighting, and signage. This is part of a broader beautification effort ahead of the annual Iron Horse Festival in September. The improvements are designed to increase tourism and local shopping traffic.
In Longview, the city is launching a summer volunteer program to help elderly and disabled residents with lawn care and basic home repairs. Over 100 high school students have signed up through area churches and school programs. The first neighborhood cleanup effort begins Saturday in the Greggton community.
LAW ENFORCEMENT & SAFETY
Van Zandt County Sheriff's Department has expanded weekend patrols along major county roads and lake areas following a recent uptick in drunk driving and boating accidents. Extra deputies will be posted near Lake Fork, Lake Tawakoni, and key access points off I-20 through Sunday night.
In Smith County, detectives are investigating a rash of vehicle break-ins reported across Lindale and south Tyler. Police believe a traveling theft ring may be responsible. Residents are reminded to lock vehicles and avoid leaving valuables in sight.
A joint task force in Henderson and Anderson counties has successfully dismantled a rural methamphetamine operation southeast of Brownsboro. Authorities seized lab equipment and arrested four individuals on felony drug charges. Investigations are ongoing as federal agencies review possible trafficking links.
SCHOOLS & EDUCATION
Preparations are ramping up for the start of the 2025–26 school year. Administrators across East Texas are finalizing safety protocols, transportation routes, and classroom upgrades. Grand Saline ISD is completing a major HVAC overhaul funded by a recent bond, while Edgewood ISD is implementing new literacy tools aimed at third- through fifth-grade students.
Back-to-school fairs are scheduled in Tyler, Longview, and Athens this weekend, offering free backpacks, vaccinations, and school supplies to families in need. Churches and local businesses are partnering to assist.
CHURCH & FAITH COMMUNITY
The First Baptist Church of Mineola will host a three-day family revival event beginning Friday evening. Featured speakers include regional pastors and musicians. The event will focus on restoring family unity and spiritual readiness amid growing global instability.
In Tyler, Rose Heights Church continues its Stand in the Gap prayer campaign, which now includes 24-hour intercessory prayer in coordination with over 30 churches across East Texas. The initiative emphasizes repentance, revival, and preparation for the return of Christ.
Gospel groups from across Texas will gather in Canton this Saturday night for a Southern Gospel Jubilee at the Civic Center. The free event includes food vendors, testimonies, and worship. Organizers hope to turn it into a quarterly tradition.
BUSINESS & ECONOMY
East Texas homebuilders are reporting strong demand despite high interest rates. Subdivisions are rapidly expanding around Lindale, Bullard, and Hallsville. However, labor shortages and materials costs continue to delay projects by several weeks. Contractors are actively recruiting skilled workers across the region.
The Van Chamber of Commerce is launching a new “Buy Local” campaign to support small businesses hit hard by inflation and online competition. Participating merchants will offer weekend discounts and loyalty rewards.
HEALTH & PUBLIC SERVICES
Hospitals in Tyler and Longview report an increase in heat-related ER visits and dehydration cases. First responders are on high alert through the weekend. Mobile hydration stations will be set up at parks and outdoor events in multiple cities.
Smith County EMS will conduct a public demonstration on Saturday at Bergfeld Park in Tyler, showcasing CPR training, first aid kits, and emergency preparedness tips. The event is free and open to all ages.
Animal control officers in Wood County have issued warnings after a rabid raccoon was found near Lake Hawkins. Pet owners are urged to ensure their animals’ vaccinations are current.
SPORTS & FAMILY EVENTS
High school football scrimmage schedules have been released, with teams from Van, Mineola, Edgewood, and Quitman set to take the field next week. Coaches report early-season optimism, though many are cautioning players to train indoors due to the heat.
Lake Palestine and Lake Fork remain top weekend destinations, though boaters are advised to exercise extreme caution. Park Rangers remind visitors of mandatory life jacket laws and bans on glass containers.
The Longview Arboretum will host a "Family Fun Under the Stars" evening on Saturday, featuring stargazing, storytelling, and live acoustic worship music. The event is free, with activities beginning at 7:30 PM.
Thanks for tuning in. Stay tuned to KRRB Revelation Radio for the latest from across East Texas—all weekend long
East Texas enters the weekend under an Excessive Heat Warning, with temperatures expected to peak near 108 degrees and heat indices potentially reaching 118. Emergency cooling shelters remain open in Tyler, Longview, Canton, and Athens. Authorities strongly urge residents to check on elderly neighbors and pets, avoid outdoor activities during the afternoon hours, and prepare for possible power fluctuations due to increased grid load.
COMMUNITY AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT
In Grand Saline, the city has finalized the location for a new community storm shelter and emergency command center. The facility will be located behind the city services building on Pacific Street and is expected to break ground by mid-August. City officials say the structure will also serve as a training hub for emergency preparedness.
Canton is moving forward with redevelopment plans for downtown. Several long-vacant buildings along Highway 64 are being assessed for renovation into small businesses and event spaces. The First Monday Trade Days grounds will see expanded lighting and accessibility improvements over the next three months.
Tyler’s mayor announced a partnership with regional food banks to address rising food insecurity across Smith County. With inflation driving up grocery costs, demand for assistance has surged. Mobile distribution events are scheduled this weekend at the Green Acres Baptist Church campus and the TISD career center.
Mineola's city council has unanimously approved a grant-funded infrastructure upgrade for downtown sidewalks, lighting, and signage. This is part of a broader beautification effort ahead of the annual Iron Horse Festival in September. The improvements are designed to increase tourism and local shopping traffic.
In Longview, the city is launching a summer volunteer program to help elderly and disabled residents with lawn care and basic home repairs. Over 100 high school students have signed up through area churches and school programs. The first neighborhood cleanup effort begins Saturday in the Greggton community.
LAW ENFORCEMENT & SAFETY
Van Zandt County Sheriff's Department has expanded weekend patrols along major county roads and lake areas following a recent uptick in drunk driving and boating accidents. Extra deputies will be posted near Lake Fork, Lake Tawakoni, and key access points off I-20 through Sunday night.
In Smith County, detectives are investigating a rash of vehicle break-ins reported across Lindale and south Tyler. Police believe a traveling theft ring may be responsible. Residents are reminded to lock vehicles and avoid leaving valuables in sight.
A joint task force in Henderson and Anderson counties has successfully dismantled a rural methamphetamine operation southeast of Brownsboro. Authorities seized lab equipment and arrested four individuals on felony drug charges. Investigations are ongoing as federal agencies review possible trafficking links.
SCHOOLS & EDUCATION
Preparations are ramping up for the start of the 2025–26 school year. Administrators across East Texas are finalizing safety protocols, transportation routes, and classroom upgrades. Grand Saline ISD is completing a major HVAC overhaul funded by a recent bond, while Edgewood ISD is implementing new literacy tools aimed at third- through fifth-grade students.
Back-to-school fairs are scheduled in Tyler, Longview, and Athens this weekend, offering free backpacks, vaccinations, and school supplies to families in need. Churches and local businesses are partnering to assist.
CHURCH & FAITH COMMUNITY
The First Baptist Church of Mineola will host a three-day family revival event beginning Friday evening. Featured speakers include regional pastors and musicians. The event will focus on restoring family unity and spiritual readiness amid growing global instability.
In Tyler, Rose Heights Church continues its Stand in the Gap prayer campaign, which now includes 24-hour intercessory prayer in coordination with over 30 churches across East Texas. The initiative emphasizes repentance, revival, and preparation for the return of Christ.
Gospel groups from across Texas will gather in Canton this Saturday night for a Southern Gospel Jubilee at the Civic Center. The free event includes food vendors, testimonies, and worship. Organizers hope to turn it into a quarterly tradition.
BUSINESS & ECONOMY
East Texas homebuilders are reporting strong demand despite high interest rates. Subdivisions are rapidly expanding around Lindale, Bullard, and Hallsville. However, labor shortages and materials costs continue to delay projects by several weeks. Contractors are actively recruiting skilled workers across the region.
The Van Chamber of Commerce is launching a new “Buy Local” campaign to support small businesses hit hard by inflation and online competition. Participating merchants will offer weekend discounts and loyalty rewards.
HEALTH & PUBLIC SERVICES
Hospitals in Tyler and Longview report an increase in heat-related ER visits and dehydration cases. First responders are on high alert through the weekend. Mobile hydration stations will be set up at parks and outdoor events in multiple cities.
Smith County EMS will conduct a public demonstration on Saturday at Bergfeld Park in Tyler, showcasing CPR training, first aid kits, and emergency preparedness tips. The event is free and open to all ages.
Animal control officers in Wood County have issued warnings after a rabid raccoon was found near Lake Hawkins. Pet owners are urged to ensure their animals’ vaccinations are current.
SPORTS & FAMILY EVENTS
High school football scrimmage schedules have been released, with teams from Van, Mineola, Edgewood, and Quitman set to take the field next week. Coaches report early-season optimism, though many are cautioning players to train indoors due to the heat.
Lake Palestine and Lake Fork remain top weekend destinations, though boaters are advised to exercise extreme caution. Park Rangers remind visitors of mandatory life jacket laws and bans on glass containers.
The Longview Arboretum will host a "Family Fun Under the Stars" evening on Saturday, featuring stargazing, storytelling, and live acoustic worship music. The event is free, with activities beginning at 7:30 PM.
Thanks for tuning in. Stay tuned to KRRB Revelation Radio for the latest from across East Texas—all weekend long