Local Roundup - page 17

Tidal-Grow, an innovative fertilizer company based in Washington, has announced plans to build a new production facility in Orange, expected to create 40-50 jobs. This expansion is part of a broader effort to meet growing market demand and support American agriculture.

The company recently secured a $2.3 million grant from the USDA’s Fertilizer Production Expansion Program (FPEP), which will fund the new facility in Orange as well as an expansion of their existing operations in Washington. These strategically chosen locations are intended to optimize supply chain efficiency and enhance distribution capabilities for Tidal-Grow’s advanced agricultural products.

To further support this growth, Tidal Vision, the parent company of Tidal-Grow AgriScience, plans to invest over $20 million in additional capital expenditures. These investments will not only scale up production but also bring new agricultural technologies to market within the next two to three years.

“Amidst continued global conflict and disrupted supply chains, American growers need novel regenerative solutions that improve soil and plant health to achieve higher yields,” said Norm Davy, Chief Commercial Officer at Tidal Grow AgriScience. “Our products, made by up-cycling waste from the seafood industry, offer agronomists and growers creative solutions to some of agriculture’s greatest challenges.”

Megan Layne, Director of the Orange County Economic Development Corporation (EDC), confirmed that the company has acquired land on Tulane Rd for the new facility. This development marks a significant investment in the local economy, promising job creation and advanced agricultural solutions.

The City of Orange will host Blues Fest at the Riverside Pavilion on August 10, running from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. “We’ve been thinking about doing this for six or seven years, and it’s finally time,” said event organizer Benetris Edwards.

Edwards explained that while Southeast Texas is rich in Zydeco and Country music, there has been a growing demand for a community event dedicated to the blues.

Blues Fest will feature a variety of attractions, beginning with a car show from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by continuous live music performances until 11 p.m. The event will commence with a prayer led by Orange Mayor Larry Spears at noon, followed by performances from local acts, including the Orange Blossoms and the Orange Community Players.

The music lineup will spotlight local blues talent, with Shon Branham performing at 2 p.m., Victoria Chanel at 4 p.m., Summer Wolfe at 6 p.m., and LJ Echols taking the stage at 8:30 p.m. The evening will conclude with a swing-out two-step dance from 9 to 10 p.m.

Attendees can enjoy a variety of food and beverage options from food trucks, with beer provided by the Orange Lions Club for those 21 and older. “I just want people to come out and enjoy themselves,” Edwards added. Come have some fun and support us.”

Admission to Blues Fest is free. However, pets, coolers, and outside beverages are not permitted.

Vidor Independent School District (VISD) is hosting a Fill the Bus Event on Saturday, August 3, 2024, from 9 AM-Noon at the Brookshire Brothers parking lot, 1380 N. Main St., Vidor.

The goal of the event is to fill the bus with a variety of school supplies, which will be distributed to VISD students in need.

Vidor ISD staff and students will be on hand at the yellow bus, collecting anything on the school supply list. Cash donations will also be accepted, and they are especially helpful for purchasing hard-to-find items such as nap mats, calculators, earbuds, and more.

Event sponsors include:

• DuGood Federal Credit Union
• S&W Auto Body
• Jordan Veterinary Clinic
• Heart of Texas Medical Spa
• Bill Clark Pest Control, Inc. – The Bugsperts
• Pine Forest Baptist Church – Vidor, Texas

The Greater Orange Area Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon-cutting/grand opening for the non-profit organization Be Blessed Orange, TX, on July 23, 2024. Founder Rita Ballard is helping provide food for families with children in need across Orange County, TX,

The organization is the beneficiary of a fund-raiser, Summer Nights Finale, on August 10, 2024, from 6:30 PM-9:30 PM at the Mauriceville Community Center, 7441 Cohenour Rd. in Mauriceville (behind the fire station on Hwy 62).

Bring whatever amount you’d like to donate to Be Blessed Orange County. Even a quarter will get you in. Come enjoy the musicianship of the wonderfully talented Paige Price. Taco Mex Fire will be set up to serve you delicious plates! Brew Barn will also have refreshments available

For more info, call (409) 670-5984 or visit their Facebook page.

Local First, part of Golden Triangle Polymers and the Orange County Economic Development Corporation is planning a Reverse Vendor and Supplier Fair on July 31, 2024, from 1-5 PM at the Orange County Convention and Expo Center, 11475 FM 1442 in Orange. This event is an opportunity for businesses interested in being considered for work on the project to connect with the general contractors and learn more about how to become a vendor or win subcontracts with these companies.

At this upcoming reverse vendor fair, participants will meet with these contractors face to face to discuss doing business on this project. During the event, participants will learn more about their procurement processes and how to register correctly to work on this project.

Orange County businesses will be able to meet them first, a full hour before others, so Orange County businesses should not miss this opportunity to get connected.

There is still time to register for the event on July 31, 2024, from 1 pm to 5 pm. Register online here.

For additional information, please feel free to contact the Orange County EDC at 409-883-7770 or the Local First Office at 409-920-4052.