September 25, 2025
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Orange Chamber Accepting Nominations for Annual Community Awards
The Greater Orange Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that nominations are now open for its Annual Community Awards, which honor the outstanding individuals, businesses, and organizations that make Orange County a better place to live, work, and thrive. Each year, the Chamber recognizes excellence in three prestigious categories: These awards celebrate the… Keep Reading
September 16, 2025
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City of Orange Explores Tiny Home Villages to Expand Affordable Housing Options
In an effort to address the growing demand for affordable housing, the City of Orange is considering the development of tiny home villages as a viable solution. The innovative proposal was introduced this week by Kelvin Knauf, Director of Planning and Community Development, during a presentation to the city commission. “This is a housing option… Keep Reading
September 15, 2025
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Stark Foundation Announces Ben Pousson as New Chief Financial Officer
The Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of Ben Pousson as chief financial officer (CFO). Pousson has been a dedicated member of the Foundation’s financial team since 2017, bringing a deep commitment to nonprofit stewardship and extensive accounting expertise to his new role. Pousson began his career at… Keep Reading
September 15, 2025
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Where Gators Meet Garden Parties in Beaumont
Ready for the ultimate Southeast Texas family adventure? Join host Laini Parker as she takes you on a six-stop day trip packed with rescued reptiles, scenic wetlands, lush gardens, swamp paddles, gourmet bites, and a Cajun seafood finale you’ll never forget! From feeding shows at Gator Country Adventure Park to spotting wildlife at Cattail Marsh,… Keep Reading
September 11, 2025
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TxDOT’s Hidden Stories Come to Life in Free Lecture at Stark Museum of Art
What lies beneath Texas’ highways may surprise you. Join the Stark Museum of Art for a compelling, one-hour lecture titled “Beyond the Road,” presented by Rebekah Dobrasko, Cultural Resource Director for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Environmental Affairs Division. The lecture will take place on Monday, September 30, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. in… Keep Reading
Mental Health Support Line Established for COVID-19 Pandemic
April 1, 2020
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has launched a statewide mental health support line to help Texans experiencing anxiety, stress, or other emotional challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This resource offers support for all Texans and can be reached any time day or night at 833-986-1919. The line is operated by the
Governor Abbott Implements Statewide Essential Services And Extends School Closings
April 1, 2020
Governor Greg Abbott today issued an Executive Order implementing Essential Services and Activities Protocols for the entire state of Texas. The protocols direct all Texans to minimize non-essential gatherings and in-person contact with people who are not in the same household. The Governor’s Executive Order renews and amends his previous order enforcing federal social distancing guidelines for COVID-19, including
Additional Locations Added to Quarantine Mandates for Air Travelers Coming into Texas, Road Travel from Louisiana Now Impacted
March 31, 2020
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and to prevent further spread into the state of Texas from hotspot areas, Governor Greg Abbott has tasked the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) with enforcing two Executive Orders surrounding travel into the state of Texas. GA-11 was issued on March 26 and specifically addresses air travel, while
CARES Act and SBA Provide Assistance for Small Business
March 31, 2020
Small Business Owners are eligible to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) due to COVID-19 through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Business owners should make every attempt to apply online here. Businesses may be eligible to receive up to $2 million with no payments for 12 months at a 3.75% interest rate for small
City of Orange Mayor Mandates Fines for Social Distancing Violators
March 31, 2020
The City of Orange Mayor has issued the First Amended Emergency Order effective Monday, March 30, 2020, at 11:59 P.M. In the mandate, City of Orange Mayor Larry Spears Jr. authorized the Orange Police Department to enforce the mandates for social distancing, Violators will face a fine of up to $1,000 with 180 days in
Governor Abbott Extends Quarantine to 10 States, Including Louisiana
March 30, 2020
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has expanded previous travel-related executive orders to include more states and cities within the United States. On March 26, Gov. Greg Abbott had instituted a mandatory self-quarantine period for people visiting from several areas hard hit by the coronavirus in the United States. Under the original executive orders, airline travelers from
School Districts Set Tentative Return Dates
March 27, 2020
Tentative return to school dates have been set by local school districts. Please know that these dates are subject to change at any time. Dates for returning are tentatively scheduled as follows: WO-C: Classes will resume on Tuesday, April 14. LC-M: Classes will resume after the spring break, scheduled April 10-April 17. Orangefield: Classes will
City of Orange Issues Declaration of Disaster and Emergency Orders
March 27, 2020
A Declaration of Disaster and accompanying Emergency Orders have been signed by Mayor Larry Spears Jr. which will become effective at 11:59 pm, March 26, 2020. The City of Orange feels fortunate that there are minimal positive cases of COVID-19 in Southeast Texas, but believes this declaration and emergency orders will assist in the area-wide
Work Safe, Play Safe Initiative Instituted
March 26, 2020
The implementation of a Work Safe, Play Safe, Stay Safe Initiative has been instituted by County Judges in Hardin, Jasper, Jefferson, Newton, Orange, and Tyler counties. This Initiative provides guidance to the public and retail service industry in areas such as what is, and is not, allowed during the COVID-19 crisis. Financial institutions will continue
Chik-fil-A to Open Drive-Thru Only on April 9
March 25, 2020
Mr. Eric Sienko, Owner/Operator of Chick-fil-A Orange, spoke at the Orange City Council Meeting held Tuesday, March 24. Sienko thanked the City of Orange for the amazing support and assistance during the construction phase leading to the opening scheduled for Thursday, April 9. “At this time, the plan is for drive-thru only and mobile app