EAST TEXAS NEWS REPORT Monday, July 28, 2025
Jul 28, 03:53 PM
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WEATHER & EMERGENCY ALERTS
An Excessive Heat Warning remains in effect across East Texas through Wednesday. Temperatures are expected to remain in the 105–110 range, with heat indices climbing above 115 in some areas. Emergency cooling centers are open in Tyler, Canton, Longview, and Athens. First responders report a spike in heat-related calls, and residents are urged to avoid outdoor activity during peak hours.
The Texas power grid is under high demand. Local utilities are asking residents to reduce energy consumption between 2–8 p.m. each day. Rolling blackouts are not expected yet but remain possible if consumption surges.
INFRASTRUCTURE & CITY SERVICES
In Grand Saline, city workers continue repairs to a damaged water main on the north side of town. Pressure has been restored in most areas, but residents in the West Main area may still experience low flow through midweek. A full system flush is expected once all valves are stabilized.
Mineola completed installation of new downtown streetlights and signage upgrades. These improvements come ahead of the city’s planned beautification campaign and are part of a larger effort to revitalize local tourism and support small businesses.
Canton has announced a short-term road closure on Highway 243 near the First Monday grounds. Crews are replacing aging underground drainage. Detours are marked and expected to last through Friday.
Longview is launching a city-wide drainage assessment after multiple reports of flash flooding in low-lying neighborhoods. Stormwater runoff from recent afternoon showers has exposed weaknesses in aging culverts and storm grates.
SCHOOLS & COMMUNITY EVENTS
East Texas schools are entering final preparations for the 2025–2026 school year. Teachers return for in-service training this week. School supply drives are active across Smith, Van Zandt, and Wood Counties. Distribution events are planned in Tyler, Grand Saline, and Mineola over the next several days.
Edgewood ISD announced a new digital learning platform for K–8 students. The district says the rollout will improve student engagement, especially in reading and math. Parents will be trained on the platform during scheduled orientation nights next week.
Tyler ISD has confirmed completion of summer construction at three campuses, including new HVAC systems and security enhancements. Bus route adjustments will be finalized and posted by Wednesday.
LAW ENFORCEMENT & SAFETY
The Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office is increasing patrols along FM 17 and Highway 19 after a rash of weekend vehicle break-ins. Most incidents occurred during early morning hours. Residents are reminded to remove valuables from vehicles and report suspicious activity immediately.
In Smith County, narcotics officers seized a large quantity of fentanyl-laced pills during a traffic stop near Loop 49. Two suspects are in custody. Investigators believe the drugs were headed toward distribution across East Texas.
Gregg County EMS launched a new mobile triage unit that will be deployed at high-traffic events this summer, starting with the Longview Rodeo later this week. The unit includes heat stroke response and cardiac emergency tools.
FAITH & FAMILY
Churches across East Texas are hosting Vacation Bible Schools and revival events this week. First Baptist Grand Saline began its "Back to Basics" revival Sunday night, with nightly services continuing through Wednesday.
Lindale Assembly of God is coordinating a multi-church outreach event at Blackberry Square Park this Saturday, offering free school supplies, family worship, and a gospel presentation.
Rose Heights Church in Tyler continues its Stand in the Gap intercessory prayer movement. Local pastors have joined in nightly gatherings focused on spiritual awakening and preparation for uncertain times.
BUSINESS & LOCAL ECONOMY
Tyler’s Innovation Business Park announced its first two anchor tenants: a regional software firm and a logistics provider. The development is expected to create over 300 jobs by mid-2026.
Lindale Chamber of Commerce is launching a new “Buy Local” campaign with participating merchants offering discounts through the end of August. The push is designed to combat inflation’s impact on small businesses.
Farmers across East Texas are reporting moderate drought stress on crops. While livestock conditions remain stable, many ranchers are hauling water and modifying feed strategies to adapt to extreme heat.
ENTERTAINMENT & COMMUNITY LIFE
The East Texas State Fairgrounds in Tyler are being prepared for this year’s expanded Gospel Music Showcase, which will now include three nights of worship beginning Friday, August 30. Organizers are expecting record attendance and additional vendors.
Mineola Nature Preserve is hosting a guided night hike Tuesday evening for families. The event includes star-gazing, campfire devotionals, and safety lessons on night wildlife.
Canton's July Family Fun Finale drew large crowds Saturday night, despite high temperatures. City officials are planning a similar event to coincide with Labor Day weekend.
SPORTS
High school football teams across East Texas are entering their second week of summer practice. Coaches in Van, Grand Saline, Mineola, and Bullard report strong conditioning and turnout. Scrimmages begin next week as teams prepare for the season kickoff in mid-August.
Tyler Junior College announced new facility upgrades to its athletics complex and a scholarship boost for first-generation college athletes, citing increased regional enrollment and community support.
CLOSING
Thanks for tuning in. Stay with KRRB Revelation Radio for more from across East Texas—faith, family, and the news that matters to you most.
An Excessive Heat Warning remains in effect across East Texas through Wednesday. Temperatures are expected to remain in the 105–110 range, with heat indices climbing above 115 in some areas. Emergency cooling centers are open in Tyler, Canton, Longview, and Athens. First responders report a spike in heat-related calls, and residents are urged to avoid outdoor activity during peak hours.
The Texas power grid is under high demand. Local utilities are asking residents to reduce energy consumption between 2–8 p.m. each day. Rolling blackouts are not expected yet but remain possible if consumption surges.
INFRASTRUCTURE & CITY SERVICES
In Grand Saline, city workers continue repairs to a damaged water main on the north side of town. Pressure has been restored in most areas, but residents in the West Main area may still experience low flow through midweek. A full system flush is expected once all valves are stabilized.
Mineola completed installation of new downtown streetlights and signage upgrades. These improvements come ahead of the city’s planned beautification campaign and are part of a larger effort to revitalize local tourism and support small businesses.
Canton has announced a short-term road closure on Highway 243 near the First Monday grounds. Crews are replacing aging underground drainage. Detours are marked and expected to last through Friday.
Longview is launching a city-wide drainage assessment after multiple reports of flash flooding in low-lying neighborhoods. Stormwater runoff from recent afternoon showers has exposed weaknesses in aging culverts and storm grates.
SCHOOLS & COMMUNITY EVENTS
East Texas schools are entering final preparations for the 2025–2026 school year. Teachers return for in-service training this week. School supply drives are active across Smith, Van Zandt, and Wood Counties. Distribution events are planned in Tyler, Grand Saline, and Mineola over the next several days.
Edgewood ISD announced a new digital learning platform for K–8 students. The district says the rollout will improve student engagement, especially in reading and math. Parents will be trained on the platform during scheduled orientation nights next week.
Tyler ISD has confirmed completion of summer construction at three campuses, including new HVAC systems and security enhancements. Bus route adjustments will be finalized and posted by Wednesday.
LAW ENFORCEMENT & SAFETY
The Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office is increasing patrols along FM 17 and Highway 19 after a rash of weekend vehicle break-ins. Most incidents occurred during early morning hours. Residents are reminded to remove valuables from vehicles and report suspicious activity immediately.
In Smith County, narcotics officers seized a large quantity of fentanyl-laced pills during a traffic stop near Loop 49. Two suspects are in custody. Investigators believe the drugs were headed toward distribution across East Texas.
Gregg County EMS launched a new mobile triage unit that will be deployed at high-traffic events this summer, starting with the Longview Rodeo later this week. The unit includes heat stroke response and cardiac emergency tools.
FAITH & FAMILY
Churches across East Texas are hosting Vacation Bible Schools and revival events this week. First Baptist Grand Saline began its "Back to Basics" revival Sunday night, with nightly services continuing through Wednesday.
Lindale Assembly of God is coordinating a multi-church outreach event at Blackberry Square Park this Saturday, offering free school supplies, family worship, and a gospel presentation.
Rose Heights Church in Tyler continues its Stand in the Gap intercessory prayer movement. Local pastors have joined in nightly gatherings focused on spiritual awakening and preparation for uncertain times.
BUSINESS & LOCAL ECONOMY
Tyler’s Innovation Business Park announced its first two anchor tenants: a regional software firm and a logistics provider. The development is expected to create over 300 jobs by mid-2026.
Lindale Chamber of Commerce is launching a new “Buy Local” campaign with participating merchants offering discounts through the end of August. The push is designed to combat inflation’s impact on small businesses.
Farmers across East Texas are reporting moderate drought stress on crops. While livestock conditions remain stable, many ranchers are hauling water and modifying feed strategies to adapt to extreme heat.
ENTERTAINMENT & COMMUNITY LIFE
The East Texas State Fairgrounds in Tyler are being prepared for this year’s expanded Gospel Music Showcase, which will now include three nights of worship beginning Friday, August 30. Organizers are expecting record attendance and additional vendors.
Mineola Nature Preserve is hosting a guided night hike Tuesday evening for families. The event includes star-gazing, campfire devotionals, and safety lessons on night wildlife.
Canton's July Family Fun Finale drew large crowds Saturday night, despite high temperatures. City officials are planning a similar event to coincide with Labor Day weekend.
SPORTS
High school football teams across East Texas are entering their second week of summer practice. Coaches in Van, Grand Saline, Mineola, and Bullard report strong conditioning and turnout. Scrimmages begin next week as teams prepare for the season kickoff in mid-August.
Tyler Junior College announced new facility upgrades to its athletics complex and a scholarship boost for first-generation college athletes, citing increased regional enrollment and community support.
CLOSING
Thanks for tuning in. Stay with KRRB Revelation Radio for more from across East Texas—faith, family, and the news that matters to you most.