KRRB East Texas News Report for Tuesday, August 12 2025
Episode 1, Aug 12, 03:45 PM
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Today we begin once again with the weather, because it continues to shape our daily lives in profound ways. The unrelenting summer heat remains the dominant force over our region, keeping temperatures at or near triple digits and putting strain on people, livestock, and infrastructure.
Weather & Environment — Heatwave Persists, Small Chance of Relief
In Grand Saline, temperatures are expected to reach 102 degrees this afternoon with a heat index near 108. Across Van Zandt, Smith, Gregg, Henderson, Rains, and Wood counties, similar conditions are in place, with excessive heat warnings extended through Wednesday evening.
A few isolated thunderstorms may develop along the I-20 corridor late tonight into early Wednesday, but they will be scattered and short-lived. Meteorologists caution that while these storms might briefly cool the air, they won’t break the larger heat pattern holding the region captive.
The Grand Saline Community Center remains open as a designated cooling station from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and First Baptist Church continues to offer its fellowship hall as overflow relief. In Tyler, the Salvation Army shelter has extended its hours and is adding extra water stations along downtown routes.
For farmers, this heat compounds drought concerns. Pasture grass is drying rapidly, and water tanks are showing signs of evaporation loss. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is urging ranchers to monitor livestock closely for heat stress and to consider adjusting feeding schedules to cooler times of the day.
Public Safety & Law Enforcement Updates
In Grand Saline, local police responded to a domestic disturbance Monday night on East High Street. One individual was arrested on charges of assault and remains in custody. Officers credit swift response time with preventing escalation.
In Tyler, the investigation continues into Sunday night’s hit-and-run on South Broadway Avenue that left a pedestrian seriously injured. Authorities are reviewing security camera footage from nearby businesses and encouraging anyone with leads to contact the department.
Longview police reported two separate traffic incidents this morning: a multi-vehicle accident on Loop 281 near Eastman Road that caused significant delays, and a minor collision on Judson Road. No serious injuries were reported in the second incident, but the Loop 281 crash sent two individuals to the hospital.
In Henderson County, deputies are warning residents about a surge in phone scams. Victims are being told their electricity will be shut off unless immediate payment is made. Authorities stress that legitimate utilities do not operate in this manner and advise residents to hang up immediately.
Grand Saline Spotlight — Local Governance and Community Life
Tomorrow evening, the Grand Saline Town Hall meeting will take center stage, with city leaders expected to outline their vision for the 2025–26 fiscal year. High on the agenda are street repairs, upgrades to the water system, and improvements to city parks.
The Beaty Street revitalization project is now in its second phase, with crews laying decorative brick pavers and installing vintage-style street lamps. Local shop owners say foot traffic has already increased thanks to the improved sidewalks and enhanced lighting.
Over the weekend, the Highway 80 Farmer’s Market saw record turnout despite the oppressive heat. Vendors reported strong sales of homegrown tomatoes, sweet corn, and fresh-baked goods. One notable highlight: a youth 4-H group sold homemade lemonade, donating all proceeds to help a local family with medical expenses.
Agriculture & Rural Economy
The heat and drought are impacting ranchers from Grand Saline to Canton. Many are now feeding hay purchased from outside the region to keep herds healthy. The rising cost of feed—up nearly 30% compared to last year—is squeezing profit margins, forcing some ranchers to downsize herds earlier than planned.
In Mineola, cooperative extension agents are hosting an evening seminar on drought-resistant forage crops. Topics include rotational grazing, supplemental mineral programs, and water conservation methods. These events are drawing strong attendance as farmers adapt to a changing climate pattern.
Education & Community Outreach
With the start of school just days away, Grand Saline ISD staff are finalizing classrooms, organizing supplies, and hosting meet-the-teacher nights. At last weekend’s Back-to-School Prayer Rally, local pastors prayed over students and educators, asking for safety, wisdom, and strong moral leadership throughout the year.
In Canton, a “Meals in the Heat” program is delivering fresh sandwiches, fruit, and bottled water to families in need. Volunteers say the ministry’s goal is to meet both physical and spiritual needs during this high-heat period.
Youth & Athletics
High school football pre-season is in full swing. The Grand Saline Indians continue two-a-day practices, focusing on hydration, conditioning, and teamwork. Coaches are reminding athletes of the importance of leadership on and off the field, using Scripture as a foundation for discipline and perseverance.
Elsewhere, Longview and Kilgore are hosting community “Meet the Team” events this weekend, offering fans a chance to connect with players, hear the marching bands, and enjoy fellowship ahead of the first games.
Culture, Heritage & Faith
In Henderson, preparations are underway for the East Texas Musical Convention, which begins this Saturday. Organizers say this year’s gathering will feature more than 200 participants from across the region, celebrating the tradition of shape-note singing and Gospel fellowship.
Longview’s new downtown mural—a vibrant blend of East Texas history, agriculture, and faith—will be officially unveiled this Thursday. The mural features scenes from farm life, railway history, and prominent local churches, with Scripture verses painted along the edges.
Faith Reflection
From Grand Saline’s revitalized downtown to the farm fields of Van Zandt County, East Texas continues to demonstrate a unique combination of resilience, compassion, and faith. As Proverbs 11:25 reminds us: “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”
Even in the heat of August, our communities are choosing to refresh others—through cool water, acts of kindness, and steadfast prayer.
This has been your East Texas News Report for Tuesday, August 12, 2025—KRRB Revelation Radio, bringing you the news of our communities through the lens of truth and faith
Weather & Environment — Heatwave Persists, Small Chance of Relief
In Grand Saline, temperatures are expected to reach 102 degrees this afternoon with a heat index near 108. Across Van Zandt, Smith, Gregg, Henderson, Rains, and Wood counties, similar conditions are in place, with excessive heat warnings extended through Wednesday evening.
A few isolated thunderstorms may develop along the I-20 corridor late tonight into early Wednesday, but they will be scattered and short-lived. Meteorologists caution that while these storms might briefly cool the air, they won’t break the larger heat pattern holding the region captive.
The Grand Saline Community Center remains open as a designated cooling station from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and First Baptist Church continues to offer its fellowship hall as overflow relief. In Tyler, the Salvation Army shelter has extended its hours and is adding extra water stations along downtown routes.
For farmers, this heat compounds drought concerns. Pasture grass is drying rapidly, and water tanks are showing signs of evaporation loss. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service is urging ranchers to monitor livestock closely for heat stress and to consider adjusting feeding schedules to cooler times of the day.
Public Safety & Law Enforcement Updates
In Grand Saline, local police responded to a domestic disturbance Monday night on East High Street. One individual was arrested on charges of assault and remains in custody. Officers credit swift response time with preventing escalation.
In Tyler, the investigation continues into Sunday night’s hit-and-run on South Broadway Avenue that left a pedestrian seriously injured. Authorities are reviewing security camera footage from nearby businesses and encouraging anyone with leads to contact the department.
Longview police reported two separate traffic incidents this morning: a multi-vehicle accident on Loop 281 near Eastman Road that caused significant delays, and a minor collision on Judson Road. No serious injuries were reported in the second incident, but the Loop 281 crash sent two individuals to the hospital.
In Henderson County, deputies are warning residents about a surge in phone scams. Victims are being told their electricity will be shut off unless immediate payment is made. Authorities stress that legitimate utilities do not operate in this manner and advise residents to hang up immediately.
Grand Saline Spotlight — Local Governance and Community Life
Tomorrow evening, the Grand Saline Town Hall meeting will take center stage, with city leaders expected to outline their vision for the 2025–26 fiscal year. High on the agenda are street repairs, upgrades to the water system, and improvements to city parks.
The Beaty Street revitalization project is now in its second phase, with crews laying decorative brick pavers and installing vintage-style street lamps. Local shop owners say foot traffic has already increased thanks to the improved sidewalks and enhanced lighting.
Over the weekend, the Highway 80 Farmer’s Market saw record turnout despite the oppressive heat. Vendors reported strong sales of homegrown tomatoes, sweet corn, and fresh-baked goods. One notable highlight: a youth 4-H group sold homemade lemonade, donating all proceeds to help a local family with medical expenses.
Agriculture & Rural Economy
The heat and drought are impacting ranchers from Grand Saline to Canton. Many are now feeding hay purchased from outside the region to keep herds healthy. The rising cost of feed—up nearly 30% compared to last year—is squeezing profit margins, forcing some ranchers to downsize herds earlier than planned.
In Mineola, cooperative extension agents are hosting an evening seminar on drought-resistant forage crops. Topics include rotational grazing, supplemental mineral programs, and water conservation methods. These events are drawing strong attendance as farmers adapt to a changing climate pattern.
Education & Community Outreach
With the start of school just days away, Grand Saline ISD staff are finalizing classrooms, organizing supplies, and hosting meet-the-teacher nights. At last weekend’s Back-to-School Prayer Rally, local pastors prayed over students and educators, asking for safety, wisdom, and strong moral leadership throughout the year.
In Canton, a “Meals in the Heat” program is delivering fresh sandwiches, fruit, and bottled water to families in need. Volunteers say the ministry’s goal is to meet both physical and spiritual needs during this high-heat period.
Youth & Athletics
High school football pre-season is in full swing. The Grand Saline Indians continue two-a-day practices, focusing on hydration, conditioning, and teamwork. Coaches are reminding athletes of the importance of leadership on and off the field, using Scripture as a foundation for discipline and perseverance.
Elsewhere, Longview and Kilgore are hosting community “Meet the Team” events this weekend, offering fans a chance to connect with players, hear the marching bands, and enjoy fellowship ahead of the first games.
Culture, Heritage & Faith
In Henderson, preparations are underway for the East Texas Musical Convention, which begins this Saturday. Organizers say this year’s gathering will feature more than 200 participants from across the region, celebrating the tradition of shape-note singing and Gospel fellowship.
Longview’s new downtown mural—a vibrant blend of East Texas history, agriculture, and faith—will be officially unveiled this Thursday. The mural features scenes from farm life, railway history, and prominent local churches, with Scripture verses painted along the edges.
Faith Reflection
From Grand Saline’s revitalized downtown to the farm fields of Van Zandt County, East Texas continues to demonstrate a unique combination of resilience, compassion, and faith. As Proverbs 11:25 reminds us: “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”
Even in the heat of August, our communities are choosing to refresh others—through cool water, acts of kindness, and steadfast prayer.
This has been your East Texas News Report for Tuesday, August 12, 2025—KRRB Revelation Radio, bringing you the news of our communities through the lens of truth and faith