Good morning, Tyler.

Jennifer Scott explained that quality journalism takes time, money, and hard work and warned that free news may drop important checks—she urged readers to support real reporting to keep our community informed and accountable.

On June 8, the Gamma Omicron Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. held the Miss Fashionetta Denim and Pearls Gala at W.T.

Brookshire Conference Center in Tyler—crowning Willow O’Nieliah Evans as Miss Fashionetta 2025 and awarding $7,000 in scholarships to seven East Texas high school seniors committed to academic excellence and service.

Smith-Shively at the Smith County Extension Office offered tips to support students' mental health as school resumed yesterday—she advised parents to start routines early, talk openly about feelings, and seek help if worries interfere with school work.

The guidance helps families address anxiety and build confidence during the transition.

Tyler and Smith County held a groundbreaking Friday morning for the Downtown Improvement Project — a plan that will add seating areas, public restrooms, a food truck park and green space — and launch three years of renovations starting in September.

The city is investing over $25 million and will also convert streets to two-way traffic and install roundabouts to improve downtown flow, with The Square being fenced off on Sept. 2, which may affect parking.

Texas pharmacies will offer ivermectin over-the-counter after a bill reaches the governor’s desk and goes into effect 90 days after the session ends—lawmakers back the measure for easier access in rural areas while critics raise safety concerns.

Sperry explained in his gardening column that pot mums surviving winter must be pinched in late spring and mid-summer to encourage secondary branches and keep them compact—gardeners should stake the top-heavy plants to support strong fall blooms.

Giovannie & The Hired Guns Concert

7:15 p.m. — Stanley's Famous Pit Barbecue — GA Standing — Experience an energetic blend of alt-metal, Red Dirt country, and Latin pop from this dynamic Texas band.

The Unknown Tour

6-8:30 p.m. — W.T. Brookshire Conference Center — Ticket prices vary — A night of fun, clean comedy, worship, and encouragement for women.

Red Not Chili Peppers Tribute Concert

7:15-10:15 p.m. — Stanley's Famous Pit Barbecue — Ticket prices vary — Experience a high-energy tribute to the iconic funk rock band with a dynamic performance and nostalgic hits.

Rubik's Cube Run

6:45-10:15 a.m. — Rose Rudman Park — Check event page for cost — Tackle a colorful challenge with a unique twist at the inaugural Rubik's Cube 5K, 10K, & 15K.

Successfully Leading Change in Healthcare

5:30-8:00 p.m. — The Grove Kitchen & Gardens — Registration required — Engage with thought leaders as they discuss effective change management strategies in healthcare.

AJ Wilkerson Comedy Show

9 PM - 1 AM — Rose City Comedy — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughs with the charming and hilarious AJ Wilkerson.

Piney Woods Ultra

7 a.m. – 3 p.m. — Tyler State Park — Registration fee applies — Challenge yourself across multiple distances in a scenic Texas setting.