LongviewNOW! Summer 2024 Issue

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Favorites

No two patients are the same — a good treatment plan should be just as unique.

The new CHRISTUS Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute in Longview is ready to assist with faith-based compassionate care, close to home.

Our team of world-class orthopedic and sports medicine specialists provide diagnosis and treatment for injuries and chronic conditions of bones, joints, and muscles in one centralized location for convenience and ease of care.

• Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, Sameday Joint Replacement, Joint Revisions and Podiatry

• State-of-the-art Rehabilitation Center

• Human Performance Program

• Cutting-edge diagnostic imaging

CHRISTUS Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute — taking orthopedic care a step further.

Making the Connection

When my husband and I moved to Longview in 2005, it was the simple pleasures that made us feel at home. The warmth of the people who live here helped us say goodbye to the community we were once part of and

We welcome the opportunity to look towards the future and build a community that makes us proud to call home.

hello to the opportunities that await us. It is the natural warmth of being embraced into the culture of our region that shines brightly when someone asks, where’s Longview?

There is no doubt, it is our fiery spirit that led us to creating LongviewNOW! We are a strong "get things done" community. Status quo is not an acceptable term in our vocabulary. We welcome the opportunity to look towards the future and build a community that makes us

proud to call home. It is this story we want to share with our readers. It is our hope that you will want to experience the hidden treasurers of Longview and East Texas!!

Our goal with this edition is to connect our lifestyle and introduce you to our community. We will focus on Longview’s rich culture of entrepreneurism and innovation from around the world eateries, to home design, to why businesses are flourishing in Longview. It is important to us that we help you get to know our area. Longview is a great place to live, work and play.

We invite you to also call Longview home!

PRESENTED BY:

EDITOR

KELLY HALL

DESIGN BY

FORBES AND BUTLER

Meet the People doing Amazing Work in Longview

The LongviewNOW! Podcast will give you the opportunity to meet the people who are already doing amazing work for the people of Longview. Through the Coffee Conversations with Kelly Hall, President and CEO of the Longview Chamber, you’ll hear stories about how things get done in our city, and how you can be involved in its continued growth!

WRITER

KATHRYN PEDROZA

PHOTOGRAPHERS

KATHRYN PEDROZA

VISUAL COMMUNICATIONS

VIZCRE8VE

ON THE COVER BARTENDER CARSON AT THE BOURBON ALLEY

Published by

Longview Chamber of Commerce

410 N Center St.

Longview, TX 75601

903-237-4000

nowlongview.com

A VISION FOR REVITALIZATION

After building and operating a successful liquor store and gas station, the Patels' started on the acquisition of a historic strip center, a focal point of the community that had seen better days. This center, once a bustling hub with establishments like Brookshire’s and Fisherman’s Market, had fallen into despair. Nishil and his brother saw an opportunity to breathe new life into this area, believing in its potential to become a thriving community hub once again.

“I think that this spot could be the new focal point. It’s the center of Longview, so it’s close to a little bit of everything.” - Nishil Patel

CHALLENGES AND TRIUMPHS

The process of revitalization was not without its challenges. Negotiating with multiple owners, dealing with outdated infrastructure, and aligning the vision of long-term growth with the immediate needs of the community were significant hurdles. However, the Patels’ commitment to quality and community-driven development shone through. They purchased the dilapidated properties, initiated extensive renovations, and began attracting a mix of tenants that would serve the diverse needs of Longview’s residents.

“In the next five years, we hope to have one of Longview’s hot spots. Then our game plan is to continue to do business the way we already operate. The way we look and the way we put the extra 10% into the way our buildings look. If we can do it the heritage way, then people can benefit from it.” - Nishil Patel

COMMUNITY-CENTRIC DEVELOPMENT

One of the standout features of the Patels’ approach is their dedication to fostering a sense of community. Their vision extends beyond mere real estate development; they aim to create spaces that encourage social interaction and outdoor activities. The redevelopment plan includes leveraging the nearby trail system to promote outdoor dining and recreational activities, enhancing the appeal of the area for families and young professionals alike.

“I don’t have any kids, but I have nieces and nephews and I hope we can create safe spaces for them to grow up. I want to have places to go eat dinner, scream, or hang out. Go on the trail, like some of the things the big city offers, that Longview is trying to also have. We need to mend the gap and get over that hump. I hope 5-10 years from now it’s where people want to go to have date night, that they will take their kids and family.” - Nishil Patel

“I HOPE 5-10 YEARS FROM NOW IT’S WHERE PEOPLE WANT TO GO TO HAVE DATE NIGHT, THAT THEY WILL TAKE THEIR KIDS AND FAMILY.”
- NISHIL PATEL

SUSTAINING LOCAL HERITAGE

Understanding the importance of local heritage, the Patels have made efforts to retain and support longstanding businesses like Fisherman’s Market. By investing in the infrastructure and aesthetics of these establishments, they are ensuring that the charm and history of Longview are preserved even as the area undergoes modernization.

“The Heritage way. We are third-generation retailers. Why do it like everybody else? Why do it the minimum when you can just add a little extra 10% and put that much more effort in. The way you shop our stores, the way you feel about our stores, the customer service, the selections, just the extra mile might cost more, but you’re tapping into a different market and making a difference.”- Nishil Patel

LOOKING AHEAD

With several projects still in the pipeline, including the renovation of a historic gym building and the potential addition of a new restaurant, the future looks bright for Longview. Nishil Patel’s forward-thinking approach and dedication to the community promise to make this area one of Longview’s most sought-after destinations.

“Anything we, and everyone does, you’re in it to make some money, but you can also have a cause. That’s our cause, we’d rather reinvest in our community, our way, spend a little extra money and do it the heritage way and hopefully that encourages everybody else to kind of up their game too.” - Nishil Patel

CONCLUSION

Nishil Patel and his brother are not just developers; they are visionaries committed to the revitalization and sustainable growth of Longview. Their efforts are a testament to the power of combining business acumen with a deep-rooted commitment to community, ensuring that Longview’s future is as bright as its storied past.

PART OF THE HERITAGE WAY

LOUIS MORGAN #4

Discover Exceptional Service at Louis Morgan #4 Pharmacy, Gifts, and More

If you're new to Longview or considering a move to this vibrant community, you'll want to familiarize yourself with Louis Morgan #4 Pharmacy, Gifts, and More—a local gem that combines top-notch pharmacy services with an unparalleled shopping experience.

Conveniently located in the Chaparral Plaza Shopping Center, next to Fisherman's Market and Cook's Flooring, Louis Morgan #4 has been serving the Longview area with dedication and care since 1969.

Louis Morgan #4 Pharmacy stands out as a full-service pharmacy committed to meeting all your healthcare needs. The team of four highly experienced pharmacists, boasting over 75 years of combined expertise, provides personalized services that ensure you and your family receive the best care possible. Their comprehensive services include: home delivery, curbside pickup, vaccinations, compounding, medication counseling, Medicare plan consultations, vitamin depletion counseling, and flavor additions.

Convenience is key at Louis Morgan #4. You can refill your prescriptions by telephone, through their user-friendly website, or via a digital app, making it easy to manage your health on your schedule.

Louis Morgan #4 isn't just about health—it's a destination for quality products and unique gifts. Their store offers a diverse selection that caters to various needs and tastes, including: over the counter items, home fragrances, fashion accessories and jewelry, luggage and handbags, serve ware, and tabletop items.

Additionally, their renowned bridal registry makes Louis Morgan #4 a popular choice for couples planning their big day, ensuring a personalized and delightful shopping experience.

Louis Morgan #4 Pharmacy invites you to explore their exceptional services and extensive product range. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff is dedicated to providing a welcoming atmosphere and treating every customer like family.

With a rich history dating back to 1969, Louis Morgan #4 has become a beloved part of the Longview community. Their locally owned and operated business reflects their commitment to providing exceptional service and building lasting relationships with their customers.

As you settle into Longview, make Louis Morgan #4 Pharmacy, Gifts, and More your go-to destination for all your pharmacy needs and discover the unique charm that has made them a local favorite for decades.

LOUIS MORGAN #4

FISHERMAN’S MARKET

Discover the Freshness at Fisherman's Market Fisherman's Market is a premier destination for seafood lovers and culinary enthusiasts alike. Known for its exceptional quality and fresh selection, this market has become a staple in the community, attracting both locals and visitors seeking the best seafood in the area.

Fisherman's Market prides itself on offering the freshest seafood available. From succulent shrimp and tender crab legs to a variety of fish fillets, their selection caters to every taste and preference. The market sources its seafood from trusted suppliers, ensuring that every product meets the highest standards of freshness and quality.

What sets Fisherman's Market apart is its commitment to customer service. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist, whether you're looking for cooking tips, recipe ideas, or help selecting the perfect seafood for your meal. Their expertise ensures that you have a satisfying shopping experience every time you visit.

Locally owned and operated, Fisherman's Market has built a loyal customer base through years of dedication and excellence. It's more than just a market; it's a place where community members gather to share their love of good food and good company.

Gracie's House Ribbon Cutting earlier this year.

Whether you're planning a family dinner, a special occasion, or just craving some fresh seafood, Fisherman's Market is the place to go. Conveniently located in the Chaparral Plaza Shopping Center, it's easily accessible and offers ample parking.

Experience the best of what the ocean has to offer right here in Longview. Visit Fisherman's Market today and taste the difference fresh seafood can make.

FISHERMAN’S MARKET

GRACIE’S HOUSE

Discover Timeless Elegance at Gracie’s House Boutique

Gracie’s House is more than just a boutique—it's a celebration of style, elegance, and the art of entertaining. Founded by the dynamic mother-daughter duo, Debbie and Ashley, this charming store offers a unique blend of fashion and home decor, making it the perfect destination for those who appreciate beauty in every aspect of life.

A Tribute to Gracie’s Legacy

Gracie’s House is named in honor of Debbie and Ashley’s grandmother and great-grandmother, Gracie, whose passion for home decorating and hosting inspired the boutique's creation. The store is a reflection of Gracie’s love for creating beautiful spaces and memorable moments, filled with the warmth and charm of her legacy.

From the whimsical tea parties in her chinoiserie-inspired study to dressing up in her extensive collection of shoes and costume jewelry, Gracie’s influence is evident in every corner of the boutique.

Curated Selection for Fashion and Home

At Gracie’s House, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of apparel, home decor, and gifts perfect for any occasion. Whether you're looking for the latest fashion trends, unique home accents, or thoughtful gifts, the boutique offers something for everyone. Each item is chosen with care, ensuring that every purchase is an investment in both yourself and your home. The goal is to provide products that bring joy and style for years to come.

A Unique Shopping Experience

Gracie’s House prides itself on offering a personalized shopping experience. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always ready to help you find the perfect piece to complement your wardrobe or enhance your home. Their dedication to exceptional customer service ensures that every visit is a delightful experience.

Visit Gracie’s House Today

Discover the charm and elegance that Gracie’s House has to offer. Whether you're updating your wardrobe, decorating your home, or searching for the perfect gift, Gracie’s House is the place to find timeless pieces that will add beauty and comfort to your life.

GRACIE’S HOUSE

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DOWNTOWN

DOWNTOWN Favorites

In the heart of every city lies its soul, a bustling downtown where history, culture, and modernity converge. Whether you're a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, Downtown Longview offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to every taste and interest. This article is your guide to some of our favorite downtown spots.

We've handpicked a selection of destinations that showcase the best of what downtown has to offer.

DOWNTOWNFavorites

SILVER GRIZZLY ESPRESSO

Creating A Home For The Community. A Place For Creatives And Connoisseurs Alike.

Within Silver Grizzly Espresso, a beloved espresso bar, craft coffee roasters and professionally trained Baristas strive to provide espresso that’s backed by precision and passion. With wooden booths, greenery, and an airy atmosphere, a homey feeling can be found in this sizeable coffee shop. In addition to coffee, Silver Grizzly also offers a selection of teas, pastries and cookies that are sure to satisfy. Local ales and craft beers are also available for your sampling. Whether you are a student, a creative or a professional, Silver Grizzly endeavors to make a home for the community, and for you.

100 W Tyler St. Downtown Longview, 7 a.m. - 10 p.m., Monday - Saturday.

WILD HONEY CREAMERY

Indulge in Decadence: Wild Honey Creamery's Journey from Pushcart to Scoop Shop Sensation

What began as a charming pushcart venture by two local moms has blossomed into a beloved ice cream sensation in Longview, Texas. Wild Honey Creamery has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of the community with its creamy delights made from the finest East Texas ingredients.

Macy Bannert and Sarah Ward, the dynamic duo behind Wild Honey Creamery, have turned their passion for crafting unique ice cream concoctions into an award-winning endeavor. From classic favorites to seasonal surprises, their small-batch creations are a testament to their dedication to quality and innovation.

What sets Wild Honey Creamery apart is its commitment to incorporating East Texas flavors into its repertoire. Take, for instance, the Silver Grizzly Iced Latte, a staple flavor infused with coffee sourced from their downtown neighbors—a testament to their dedication to supporting local businesses and infusing their creations with regional flair.

But Wild Honey Creamery is more than just a scoop shop; it's a destination for indulgence and community. Beyond their storefronts, they offer catering services and convenient take-home packages, ensuring that their delectable treats are enjoyed far and wide.

108 E Tyler St., Downtown Longview

12 p.m. - 9 p.m., Monday - Thursday; 12 p.m. - 10 p.m. Friday -Saturday.

OIL HORSE BREWING CO.

Crafting Community and Gluten-Reduced Beers in Downtown Longview

One of the cornerstone businesses in downtown Longview, Texas, Oil Horse Brewery stands out as a beacon of warmth, inclusivity, and exceptional craft beer. What sets this brewery apart is not just its dedication to brewing outstanding beers, but its commitment to fostering a sense of community and connection among its patrons, both inside and outside its welcoming walls.

For John, the owner, the journey to creating Oil Horse Brewery began with a personal quest for great craft beer despite facing gluten intolerance. Frustrated by the limited options available, he delved into homebrewing, discovering not only a passion but also a dream of one day opening his own brewery. With the support of his wife and co-owner Ellen, that dream became a reality much sooner than expected. Since then, the brewery has blossomed from a once-a-month operation to a bustling hub open five days a week, boasting a selection of 15 rotating taps and a dedicated staff.

101 W Tyler St., Downtown Longview

5 p.m. - 9 p.m., Tuesday - Thursday; 4 p.m. - 10 p.m.-ish Friday -Saturday.

THE BOURBON ALLEY

Elevating Downtown Longview with Vintage Charm and Sophisticated Ambiance

Right in the middle of downtown Longview, a hidden gem awaits, ready to enrich the vibrant tapestry of the cityscape. Bourbon Alley, doesn't just offer a night out—it contributes to the cultural landscape of downtown Longview and gives patrons an escape from life for a bit. Whisper the secret passcode and step into Bourbon Alley, you are transported to a time of clandestine elegance and indulgence, adding a touch of vintage charm. The speakeasy's carefully curated ambiance and sophisticated mixology, reminiscent of the Roaring Twenties, breathes new life into the area, drawing both locals and visitors alike to experience its unique allure.

Bourbon Alley isn't just a speakeasy—it's a beacon of sophistication, camaraderie, and cultural enrichment in downtown Longview. By adding a touch of vintage charm and sophisticated ambiance to the city's landscape, it elevates the overall vibrancy and allure of downtown, making it a destination not to be missed.

115 E Tyler St., Downtown Longview | 5

DOWNTOWNFavorites

903 BILLIARDS

Where Pool Enthusiasts Gather for Fun and Competition in Downtown Longview

In the heart of downtown Longview, a new hub for pool enthusiasts has emerged, bringing together players of all skill levels for camaraderie, competition, and good times. Welcome to 903 Billiards, where the love of the game meets the vibrant energy of downtown life.

Owned and operated by Jeff and Dawn Goodeman, 903 Billiards celebrated its grand opening in July 2023. The hall boasts a spacious 7,500-square-foot venue with ten 7-foot tables and one 9-foot table, providing ample space for a variety of pool games and tournaments. From friendly matches to organized leagues and tournaments, there's something for everyone.

As Jeff Goodeman aptly describes it, today's pool scene at 903 Billiards is far from the "dark and smoky" stereotype of years past. Instead, it's a dynamic and inclusive environment where the love of the game transcends boundaries, bringing people together in the spirit of friendly competition and shared passion.

Saturday.

210 E Methvin St., Downtown Longview | 5 p.m. - 12 a.m. Tuesday - Thursday, 5 p.m. - 2 a.m. Friday, 12

GREENSIDE BEVERAGE CO.

Where Natural Wine and Craft Beer Meet Downtown Longview's Renaissance Greenside Beverage Co. stands as a testament to shared passions and a commitment to community. Since its opening in 2022, this cozy establishment has quickly become a beloved gathering place for locals and visitors alike, offering an eclectic array of natural wines, craft beers, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Founded by Bessie and Hudson Johnson, Greenside Beverage Co. embodies their shared love for wine, particularly natural wines crafted by small, independent producers using traditional methods. The selection of wines at Greenside reflects this passion, offering patrons a chance to explore unique and vibrant flavors that have never before graced this part of Texas.

Greenside Beverage Co. is a shining example of what makes downtown Longview special—a place where locals and visitors alike can come together to experience the best that the city has to offer. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a craft beer aficionado, or simply looking for a cozy spot to relax and unwind, Greenside Beverage Co. invites you to join them in celebrating the spirit of community and camaraderie in downtown Longview.

102 N Green St., Downtown Longview |

Exploring the Longview Arboretum and Discovering Tranquility:

and Nature Center Tranquility:

Housed on 26 acres just east of the Maude Cobb Convention Center, the Longview Arboretum and Nature Center stands as a serene oasis in the heart of Longview, Texas. With its formal gardens, tranquil fountains, inviting pavilions, and diverse plant collections, this verdant sanctuary offers a haven for nature enthusiasts, eventgoers, and seekers of serenity alike.

A stroll through the arboretum unveils a tapestry of natural beauty, with a smooth walking path meandering beneath the majestic canopy of East Texas pine trees. The meticulously curated gardens, adorned with vibrant blooms and lush foliage, provide an idyllic backdrop for weddings, engagements, private parties, and large events. Moreover, the arboretum serves as a picturesque setting for photo sessions, capturing timeless moments amidst the splendor of nature.

Throughout the year, the Longview Arboretum hosts a myriad of activities and events that cater to diverse interests. The Spring and Fall ROOTS Concert Series bring live entertainment to the great outdoors, offering visitors an opportunity to revel in music amidst the scenic surroundings. Additionally, year-round education classes and seminars foster environmental awareness and conservation enlightenment, enriching the community's understanding of the natural world.

Summer hours welcome visitors to explore the arboretum's enchanting grounds from Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. The adjacent Nature Center, located at 706 West Cotton Street, offers daily admissions and scheduled group tours, providing access to a gift shop, classrooms, and rentable meeting spaces. For inquiries and bookings, individuals can contact 903-2122181 or visit the Longview Arboretum's website and Facebook page for the latest updates and information.

Managed through a collaborative effort between the City of Longview and the Board of the Longview Arboretum and Nature Center, this public/private partnership ensures the sustainability and vitality of this botanical gem. Since its opening on November 2, 2019, the arboretum has blossomed into a cherished community asset, dedicated to showcasing the unique ecosystem of East Texas in a thoughtful and engaging manner.

The Longview Arboretum continues to flourish, with ongoing growth, plantings, events, and exhibits that captivate and inspire visitors of all ages. Whether seeking solace in nature's embrace or embarking on a journey of discovery and learning, the arboretum beckons all to immerse themselves in its natural splendor and cultivate a deeper connection to the world around us.

With its commitment to education, conservation, and community engagement, the Longview Arboretum and Nature Center serves as a living testament to the transformative power of nature and the enduring spirit of collaboration. As visitors explore its enchanting landscapes and engage in its enriching programs, they not only discover tranquility but also forge a lasting bond with the wonders of the natural world.

At the Doorstep of Adventure

Life in the Piney Woods moves at slower pace, but that doesn’t mean adventures are hard to find. Situated in the lake country of East Texas, you’re as close to pristine fishing waters as you are retail shopping opportunities — truly the best of both worlds.

U.S. Title Company is proud to serve the Longview community as more than just a trusted partner in title insurance and escrow services — we serve our clients as friends and neighbors.

Welcome home to Longview, Texas.

TSTC UNVEILS $13 MILLION DIESEL TECH BUILDING, MARKS NEW ERA IN DIESEL TECH EDUCATION

Shovels hit the ground for the first of many times in October 2023, at Texas State Technical College’s Marshall campus during a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the construction of a new Diesel Equipment Technology building. “Today’s event marks a significant milestone in TSTC’s East Texas history: from our humble beginnings as an extension center back in 1992 to where we stand this morning, more than 4,000 graduates later,” Marshall campus provost Barton Day said.

According to TSTC senior construction manager, Jay Wesson, the $13 million, 21,000-square-foot building will be located right next door to the original Diesel Equipment Technology building. It will house a classroom, 10 bays in the diesel equipment lab, a lab for diesel transmission, and an engine lab. “This is going to help TSTC because we’re adding off-road diesel to the current on-road diesel program,” Wesson said. “It’s going to expand our number of students. Hopefully, it will help the community and the surrounding area by having a bigger place to train our diesel students.”

TSTC Chancellor and CEO Mike Reeser traveled to the Marshall campus to celebrate the occasion with the visitors and staff.

“Across the state, TSTC is the No. 1 public college in Texas for diesel technicians,” Reeser said. “The students that we serve in this new diesel building for decades to come are going to go out in that workforce and have an extraordinary career. In the end, the employers who hire them and those students are the true beneficiaries of everything we do.”

“THE STUDENTS THAT WE SERVE IN THIS NEW DIESEL BUILDING FOR DECADES TO COME ARE GOING TO GO OUT IN THAT WORKFORCE AND HAVE AN EXTRAORDINARY CAREER.”
- Mike Reeser, TSTC Chancellor and CEO

Diesel Equipment Technology instructor Tim Winchester looks forward to the ways that the new building will expand the program.

“I think it will be a wonderful addition,” Winchester said. “We do a lot of changing in the current space. We have to move a lot of stuff around. There we will be able to make more stations that are permanently attached, allowing us more time to concentrate on the classes themselves.”

The new building is scheduled to open in Spring 2025. For more information about TSTC, visit click here

TEXAS STATE TECHNICAL COLLEGE

FORGING PATHWAYS FOR EDUCATIONAL AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

In a strategic move to enhance educational opportunities and bolster workforce readiness in Longview and its surrounding regions, Kilgore College (KC) and The University of Texas at Tyler (UT Tyler) have solidified their collaboration through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This landmark agreement paves the way for a seamless transition from community college to a four-year university, offering a promising avenue for prospective students and the local workforce.

The crux of this partnership lies in the introduction of a coenrollment program, enabling students to enroll at both institutions simultaneously. Over the initial two years, students will primarily attend classes at KC, while having the opportunity to complete up to three credit hours per semester from a predetermined list of UT Tyler courses. This approach not only streamlines the transfer process but also ensures that students acquire the requisite prerequisites and credits for a smooth transition into UT Tyler's academic realm.

Dr. Tracy Skopek, KC's vice president of instruction, emphasized the program's significance, stating, "Concurrent enrollment will facilitate

THROUGH THIS CONCERTED EFFORT, UT TYLER AND KILGORE COLLEGE ARE NOT ONLY SHAPING THE EDUCATIONAL LANDSCAPE OF LONGVIEW BUT ALSO FOSTERING A CULTURE OF COLLABORATION AND INNOVATION.

a smoother transition for students who plan to transfer from Kilgore College to UT Tyler." Moreover, this collaborative effort simplifies the academic trajectory, allowing participating students to earn both an associate's degree from KC and a bachelor's degree from UT Tyler within a four-year timeframe.

Dr. Amir Mirmiran, UT Tyler's provost and executive vice president for academic affairs, expressed enthusiasm about fortifying the partnership with KC, remarking, "By working together and offering co-advising, students will have a much clearer picture of their degree plan, which will, in turn, help reduce the time and the cost for their four-year degree completion."

The implications of this alliance extend beyond academic pursuits. By providing a localized avenue for higher education, the UT Tyler Longview University Center (LUC) and Kilgore College collaboration not only makes Longview more appealing to prospective students but also strengthens the region's workforce. With Longview poised as a burgeoning economic hub, equipping its populace with advanced skills and qualifications is instrumental in meeting the demands of a rapidly evolving job market.

Through this concerted effort, UT Tyler and Kilgore College are not only shaping the educational landscape of Longview but also fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. The UT Tyler Longview University Center and Kilgore College partnership symbolizes a commitment to accessible, quality education and workforce development, setting a precedent for future collaborations aimed at empowering communities and driving economic growth.

Members of the 2024 40 Under 40 Class learn more about the UT Tyler and Kilgore College collaboration at the Kilgore College - Longview Advanced Manufacturing Institute.

LONGVIEW Education

Longview ISD

8,688 PK, K-12 Total Enrollment

High School Total Enrollment: 2,208

AP® Participation Rate: 53%

15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

98% Graduation Rate

Minority Enrollment: 79%

Economically Disadvantaged: 84%

1 of 3 High Schools In Longview

Advanced Placement® Coursework and Exams

Spring Hill ISD

2,028 PK, K-12 Total Enrollment

High School Total Enrollment: 587

AP® Participation Rate: 42%

14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

98% Graduation Rate

Proficient in Reading and Math: 54%

Minority Enrollment: 30%

Economically Disadvantaged: 28%

Advanced Placement® Coursework and Exams

The Only High school in Spring Hill ISD

St. Mary's Catholic School

PK, 3-12

Fully accredited by the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops Education Department, Southern Association of Colleges, and Cognia. Needs -based financial services available. Only fully accredited Catholic School in Longview.

Pine Tree ISD

4,677 PK, K-12 Total Enrollment

High School Total Enrollment: 1,330

AP® Participation Rate: 19%

14:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

99% Graduation Rate

Minority Enrollment: 66%

Economically Disadvantaged: 69%

Oak Forest Montessori School

8 Wks - K and K - *5th grade after school program

This school ls modeled after what Dr. Maria Montessori called "the prepared environment," an environment which possesses order and logic.

Accredited by Cognia

UT Tyler University Academy K-12th

393 1-12 Total Enrollment

1:20 K-5 Student-Teacher Ratio

1:25 6-12 Student-Teacher Ratio

100% Graduation Rate

Attend a 4-Year College After Graduation: 80%

Accredited by TEA (Texas Education Agency) / We are a University Public Charter School

Longview Christian School

352 K-12 Enrollment

15:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

100% Graduation Rate

Attend 4-Year College After Graduation: 85%

Offers Athletics and Fine Arts

Accredited by ACSI - Association of Christian Schools International

Christian Heritage Classical School

327 PK, K-12 Total Enrollment

9:1 Student-Teach Ratio

100% Graduation Rate

Attend a 4-Year College after Graduation: 87%

Offers Athletics and Fine Arts

Accredited by Cognia

Trinity School of Texas

255 2 year-12 Total Enrollment

9:1 Student-Teacher Ratio

100% Graduation Rate

Attend a 4-Year College after Graduation: 100%

Accredited by Cognia, Southwestern Association of Episcopal Schools

Eastman team members are committed to enhancing the quality of life in a material way Whether they are developing products and solutions for our customers or volunteering in the community, our people are the reason we can continue to innovate and make a positive difference here and around the world

Thank you, colleagues, retirees, neighbors, and area partners for helping make Eastman a great place to work and this community a great place to live

POPULATION

POPULATION ESTIMATES BASE JULY 1, 2019

POPULATION, CENSUS APRIL 1, 2010

POPULATION PERCENT CHANGE APRIL 1, 2010

DEMOGRAPHICS

PERSONS UNDER 5 YEARS OF AGE 81,631

HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE OR HIGHER, PERCENT OF PERSONS AGE 25+ (2015-2019)

80,455

1.46%

HOUSING WORK AND EDUCATION

TOTAL HOUSEHOLDS 2015-2019

BACHELOR'S DEGREE OR HIGHER, PERCENT OF PERSONS AGE 25 YEARS+ (2015-2019) PERSONS UNDER 18 YEARS OF AGE

MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME (IN 2019 DOLLARS) (2015-2019)

$49,086

OWNER-OCCUPIED HOUSING UNIT RATE 2015-2019

MEDIAN VALUE OF OWNER-OCCUPIED HOUSING UNITS 2015-2019

MEDIAN SELECTED MONTHLY OWNER COSTS WITH A MORTGAGE 2015-2019

MEDIAN SELECTED MONTHLY OWNER COSTS WITHOUT A MORTGAGE 2015-2019 MEDIAN GROSS RENT 2015-2019

30,053 54.3% $139,600 $1,253 $473 $840

Healthcare

Longview’s medical corridor is a major part of the local economy and is often a reason people choose to relocate to the city. If you work in the healthcare field, need a specific type of treatment or are simply assured by the thought of having state of the art facilities and personnel at your service, you appreciate this aspect of Longview. The city’s medical facilities provide some of the most advanced healthcare services east of I-35. Two fully equipped and modern hospitals, CHRISTUS Good Shepherd Medical Center and Longview Regional Medical Center, offer care from a staff of doctors and healthcare specialists who have received national attention for their medical achievements.

There are also dozens of medical clinics with a variety of specialties. Hundreds of physicians offer quality care in every major medical specialty. A complete range of medical services, surgical services, and emergency care are available in the heart of the city.

Longview Regional Medical Center was awarded the America’s 50 Best Hospitals for Vascular Surgery Award™ (2020, 2019, 2018).

LRMC is a 230-bed facility, with 180 physicians and healthcare professionals. They are known for being quality-driven, and nationally recognized for chest pain and stroke care. LRMC is dedicated to great patient service, with multi-specialty clinical expertise.

CHRISTUS

Good Shepherd Medical Center (CGSMC) is proud to announce that it is among the first health care organizations in the country to earn ClearHealth Quality Institute™ (CHQI) accreditation for telemedicine. CGSMC in Longview is a notfor-profit, full service, acute care, 425-bed regional referral center.

As one of the region’s top Level III Trauma Centers and home to the region’s first Level III NICU, it serves a vital role in the health of all the residents it serves. CGSMC Longview is also:

ຸ A Certified Primary Stroke Center with 24-hour neurosurgery coverage

ຸ Longview’s only Center for Robotics and Minimally Invasive Surgery

ຸ A Breast Center of Excellence

ຸ An Accredited Chest Pain Center with 24/7 Cardiac Cath Lab availability

VISIT THE LRMC SITE
VISIT THE CGSMC SITE

The Longview Chamber of Commerce believes we must work together to build a strong and vibrant place that we call home. We serve as the catalyst for change that ignites business growth and inspires possibilities. We do that by connecting people who collaborate with the community to make smart decisions that move us forward. The Longview NOW! Podcast will give you the

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