LIVINGSTON, TX – In a feat that has captured the attention of the entire Polk County community, local resident Jimmy Ray Johnson set a new world record for the longest time spent watching paint dry in his small hometown of Livingston. Johnson, 45, managed to stare at a freshly painted wall in his living room for an astonishing 22 hours straight, breaking the previous record held by a man from neighboring San Jacinto County.

Friends and family of Johnson gathered in his living room to witness the historic event, with some providing snacks and beverages to keep him going during the grueling marathon. Johnson reportedly remained seated in his recliner throughout the entirety of the endeavor, occasionally nodding off but always quick to wake up and resume his vigilant observation of the drying paint.

“I knew I had it in me to break this record,” Johnson said, wiping away tears of joy as he was presented with a certificate from the East Texas Paint Drying Association. “It was tough at times, especially when the paint started to form those interesting swirl patterns, but I pushed through and stayed focused.”

The event was live-streamed on the popular local news website eastexasnews.com, where viewers from all over East Texas tuned in to witness the excitement unfold. The website experienced a surge in traffic, with many residents expressing their support and admiration for Johnson’s dedication to such a peculiar task.

In recognition of his achievement, the mayor of Livingston has declared a new holiday in Johnson’s honor, officially designating February 29th as “Paint Watcher’s Day” in Polk County. Johnson has already announced plans to defend his title next year, vowing to surpass the 24-hour mark and solidify his place in the history books of small-town Texas.