Government - page 48

The Southeast Texas Regional Operations Center has created a website to allow citizens the opportunity to sign up to be notified for available COVID-19 vaccines in Orange County.

Citizens may sign up to be notified at vaccine.beaumonttexas.gov or by phone at 409.550.2536 option #5.

These options do not provide an appointment date/time but will notify each individual when vaccines are available.

The Orange Public Library is excited to announce that The Friends of the Orange Public Library, Inc. has purchased a beautiful new book return for the front of the library.

The Friends of the Orange Public Library, Inc. is a local volunteer organization whose purpose is to encourage interest in and help support the needs of the Orange Public Library. This group was organized in 1953, incorporated in 1979, and continues to be active in such programs/projects as the library’s annual book sale, the Young Adult and Summer Reading Programs, boxes to overseas military, etc. Also, the color copier was purchased and is maintained by the Friends for use by the public.

The Friends board has monthly meetings that are open to the public. This board makes decisions on special programs, projects, and budget spending. In March an annual general membership meeting is held in connection with the membership drive. A library card is not necessary to be a member of the Friends organization.

The Friends organization is in need of interested person/s who might be able to devote a minimum amount of time each month to serve on the Friends Board. Please leave your name and phone number for Diane Sturdivant at the Orange Public Library at 409-883-1086.

The City of Orange held a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony celebrating the much-anticipated opening of Lions Park on Wednesday, January 20, 2021.

The new park has many great features for all to enjoy including covered seating areas, a padded path throughout the park, and equipment designed for specific age groups. The park also offers ADA compliance for an inclusive play experience.

At the State and Regional level, we are in Phase 1A of the vaccination program.

As we move through the phases and you fall within that category, please call the COVID-19 Vaccine Registry Number at (409) 209-5340.

Orange County will be updating the chart as we move through the phases. Please be patient at this time, as there is a limited number of vaccines that are available.

The Paycheck Protection Program is up and running again effective Monday, January 11, 2021.

The Program is available for new borrowers and certain existing PPP borrowers.

The Paycheck Protection Program is a loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small business to keep their workers on the payroll.

For additional information on the Paycheck Protection Program, please visit the SBA website.