Orange Living Winter 2021

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Chasing feathers –

learn how to become a birdwatcher or a birder

Orange Nutrition promotes a healthy option for folks needing a boost

Various health benefits of yoga Winter 2021

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Š2020 Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation. All Rights Reserved.

TABLE CONTENTS OF

CULTURE

RESTURANT

HEALTH

RESTAURANT

Dishman Art Museum offers a glimpse in the art world............................................6 The various health benefits of yoga................................. 8

RECIPE

Chicken Marsala a winter treat to ignite your taste buds............................................10

HOBBY

Chasing feathers – learn how to become a birdwatcher or a birder........................12

ORGANIZATION

6 steps to organize your home office........................18

Mary Mckenna’s house reflects years of memories, history..................................................16

Orange Nutrition promotes a healthy option for folks needing a boost..............19

ON THE SCENE

See who was seen out and about........................22-29

Why I Love Orange County

Orange County Judge John Gothia..........................30

EDITOR’S LETTER

of people who committed to a New Year's resolution stuck to it for a week, only 19 percent of those who made resolutions actually fulfilled them within two years. And the statistics have only gotten worse over time: According to a survey by Statista, only four percent of people who made New Year's resolutions in 2018 said they kept them. So, if you can stick to your New Year's resolutions this year, you'll definitely be in the minority, according to bestlifeonline.com.

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However, being in the minority can be a positive place to be, especially if you were able to keep that resolution and it made you a better person.

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Congratulations! We made it through 2020 and now facing 2021.

I don’t know about you, but I sent an advance memo to 2021 stating I would not tolerate another year of pandemic, panic and hurricanes. I am sure you had more than your fill of bad news compounded with bad news after 2020.

Yet, we all pulled through it together and stronger.

Now to make our new year’s resolutions and in about 10 days, break them.

An estimated 188.9 million adult Americans (74.02% of the population) say they’re determined to learn something new, make a lifestyle change or set a personal goal in an effort to better themselves in 2021, a 15.17% increase from the previous year. The top six categories that keep us to this holiday tradition relate to money, health, career, selfimprovement, family, and love, according to www.finder.com A landmark 1988 study out of the University of Scranton found that while 77 percent

Amy Townsend, MD

General Manager

Dawn Burleigh

WRITERS

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Normally, I do not personally make any life altering new year’s resolutions because of the statistics showing the high number of failures.

But, if 2020 taught me anything, it taught me statistics need to be put to the test. Just because others failed does not mean you or I will automatically fail in the process as well.

Over a year ago, in August 2019, I decided to turn a new leaf, so to speak, and made a resolution. Wrong time of year, I know, but why be like everyone else? I promised myself and my mom that I would quit smoking if she did. I had no idea what would happen over the course of time since I made that promise to her, but I can say that I have not had a cigarette since August 6, 2019. I will add that 2020 did not make it easy on me as I struggled to not relight up.

Since a resolution is a firm decision to do or not to do something, I suggest we look at ways we can improve ourselves and our community as consider our resolutions into the new year.

And remember, no one said you HAD to make your resolution on January 1.

As you read through this edition of Orange Living, consider new options or hobbies which can better you and the community. 

ABOUT Orange Living is published and distributed by Orange Newsmedia, LLC for Orange County residents promoting and encouraging the cultural and social scene in the Greater Orange Area. For information about advertising, to ask a question or make a comment about our magazine, contact Orange Newsmedia, LLC at 409-883-3573 or by email at news@orangeleader.com.

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Dishman Art Museum

L

offers a glimpse in the art world

Located on the campus of Lamar University, the Dishman Art Museum serves as a teaching facility and has had a positive effect on the quality of education at LU since its dedication in 1983.

The museum offers students an opportunity to experience diverse styles that reflect international trends as well as exhibit their own work.

Further, the museum is a showplace that contributes significantly to the cultural opportunities of the region.

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The Dishman Art Museum is open Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and often during weekends for special museum-sponsored events. The museum is located at the northwestern corner of the Lamar University campus at 1030 East Lavaca Street in Beaumont.

Admission and parking are free. ď ´

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The various health benefits of

yoga

By Dawn Burleigh

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Health-conscious individuals can do many things to improve their overall health. As medical researchers continue to uncover new things about how to achieve optimal health, one practice dating back to ancient times remains a highly effective way to take care of the human body.

Though there’s no written records regarding the origins and invention of yoga, the practice is believed to date back to ancient India. The earliest written record of yoga is “The Yoga Sutra of Pantañjali,” a collection of aphorisms that historians believe was compiled sometime between 500 BCE and 400 BCE. Despite its age, yoga has not been studied extensively by medical researchers. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, many studies looking into the health effects of yoga have included only small numbers of people and have not been of high quality. As a result, the NCCIH can only say that yoga shows promise in regard to helping people manage or overcome certain health issues, but not that it has been proven to do so.

“One of the biggest benefits is taking the space and time for oneself,” Yoga Vibe TX owner Lauren Cowart said. “It will help lower anxiety and stress levels.”

Cowart is also an instructor at the yoga studio located at 5648 Farm to Market Road 408 in Orangefield. She has practiced yoga for 12 years, and has taught it for five years.

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Though yoga may need to be studied more closely and extensively, many people who include it in their regular health care routines report feeling better both physically and mentally for having done so, and that may not be a coincidence.

Though yoga may need to be studied more closely and extensively, many people who include it in their regular health care routines report feeling better both physically and mentally for having done so, and that may not be a coincidence. A 2004 comprehensive review of yoga’s use as a therapeutic intervention published in the Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology indicated that yoga targets unmanaged stress, which has been linked to chronic disorders like anxiety, depression, obesity, diabetes, and insomnia.

Techniques used in Prenatal /Postnatal Sessions, can also be adapted for those who are overweight as that version of yoga includes chairs and blocks so one is not on the floor.

“One can continue with yoga throughout their pregnancy as long as the doctor gives consent,” Cowart said. “Yoga is open to anyone of any age, gender or body type. It is adaptable to anyone, even if they are in a wheelchair.”

“They will experience more energy which leads to less stress,” Cowart said.

“It allows you to stretch the muscles and bring the floor to you,” Cowart said.

Another benefit one will notice after starting a yoga retinue is an increase in breath capacity which will help them experience a more calming space.

In addition to that review, the NCCIH notes that research has suggested yoga can:

• Relieve low-back pain and neck pain • Relieve menopause symptoms • Help people manage anxiety or depressive symptoms associated with difficult life situations • Help people quit smoking • Help people who are overweight or obese lose weight • Help people with chronic diseases manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

It’s important that anyone considering making yoga part of their health care routines recognize that there are various forms of yoga, some of which are more physically demanding than others. So, it’s best if individuals speak with their physicians before trying yoga so they can find the type that aligns best with their current levels of fitness.

One can drop in for a yoga class at Yoga Vibe Tx for $15 a class. Discounts are available with the purchase of a class card which can bring the classes down to $10. It also hosts Yoga Parties and private individual and private group classes as well as Prenatal /Postnatal Sessions. For more information, visit https://www.yogavibetx.com/information 

Chicken Marsala

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a winter treat to ignite your taste buds

By Van Wade

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For many of us, the winter season is a busy time of the year.

Many of us are seeking that quick dish at night that can feed the family so everyone can go about their merry way.

Chicken Marsala can certainly fit that bill and is just enough to light up everyone’s taste buds and is certainly a delicious dish.

Here is a great recipe for Chicken Marsala: 4 skinless, boneless, chicken breasts (about 1 1/2 pounds) Ingredients: All-purpose flour, for dredging Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 4 ounces prosciutto, thinly sliced 8 ounces crimini or porcini mushrooms, stemmed and halved 1/2 cup sweet Marsala wine 1/2 cup chicken stock

Directions: 1. Put the chicken breasts side by side on a cutting board and lay a piece of plastic wrap over them; pound with a flat meat mallet, until they are about 1/4-inch thick. Put some flour in a shallow platter and season with a fair amount of salt and pepper; mix with a fork to distribute evenly.

2. Heat the oil over medium-high flame in a large skillet. When the oil is nice and hot, dredge both sides of the chicken cutlets in the seasoned flour, shaking off the excess.

Slip the cutlets into the pan and fry for 5 minutes on each side until golden, turning once – do this in batches if the pieces don't fit comfortably in the pan. Remove the chicken to a large platter in a single layer to keep warm.

3. Lower the heat to medium and add the prosciutto to the drippings in the pan, saute for 1 minute to render out some of the fat. Now, add the mushrooms and saute until they are nicely browned and their moisture has evaporated, about 5 minutes; season with salt and pepper. Pour the Marsala in the pan and boil down for a few seconds to cook out the alcohol. Add the chicken stock and simmer for a minute to reduce the sauce slightly. Stir in the butter and return the chicken to the pan; simmer gently for 1 minute to heat the chicken through. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with chopped parsley before serving. ď ´

2 tablespoon unsalted butter 1/4 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley

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Chasing feathers

By Tammee Greer Courtesy photos

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Birdwatching has quickly become a newly acceptable sport during this COVID-19 pandemic. The sport has increased in popularity for all ages. A person who is a hobbyist observing all the different species of birds is considered a birdwatcher or a birder.

Gregory Jackson, a retired insurance agent for Kemper Insurance, is a local, avid birder in the Golden Triangle. He has always enjoyed the outdoors and payed attention to nature and

all outdoor creatures. As a Biology Major at Lamar University in the year of 1975, Jackson signed up for any class which included field trips. One such class was an Ornithology (the study of birds) class, where he learned the different groups of birds and how to identify the different species. He learned there are four specific categories used to identify species of birds. They are size and shape, color pattern, habitat (where it was seen) and behavior (what it was doing when it was seen).

With so many various kinds of our finefeathered friends it is hard to have a favorite or know where to begin the new adventure of birding. Jackson mentioned several apps which are user-friendly and make watching our tree and air inhabitants so simple. Userfriendly apps for birdwatching are Merlin Bird ID, Audubon Bird Guides and the eBird app, which also has a website, eBird.org.

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The Merlin Bird app is an excellent choice for those who are new to birding, Jackson recommended. This app has facial recognition software. A picture of a bird, where it was taken and the date it was taken, can be uploaded.

Another fantastic app is the Audubon Bird Guides. It is a field guide in app form. It is easy to navigate. Jackson said people can create custom lists, such as a yard list, a year list, a life list, etc.

The eBird app is what Jackson prefers to use when he is at a location because it will give him every bird that can possibly be seen at that location within a twenty-mile radius. When traveling, the app has the capability of keeping track of all the different types of species of birds for every location along the journey.

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While chasing feathers through the years, Jackson said the Cape May Warbler has proven to be the allusive one for him. He said it has been spotted in the Sabine Woods every year.

He has gone there repeatedly when notified of its presence there but has not had the pleasure of being in the right place at the right time.

The Carolina Wren is one of the most common to view in this area. This little, brown bird has been seen all the time by people unaware. This brown-feathered friend likes to frequent places around people. They are often seen roosting in high, out-of-theway spots around homes, particularly in the winter. They find a spot out of the cold wind, puff up their feathers and tuck their heads under their wings to keep warm.

The beautifully colored birds are always a favorite to see, such as the Painted Bunting Jackson mentioned. They are easiest to find between May thru July in the Eastern two thirds of the state of Texas. Painted Buntings can be found around grassy areas butting up against wooded areas, especially with a pond or creek flowing through it.

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Jackson’s favorite bird he has observed in Orange County is the crow-sized Pileated Woodpecker. They are the largest woodpecker residing in Orange County. They are double the size of a Red-Headed Woodpecker with a bill three inches long.

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Now-a-days, there are many online sites to browse concerning birding and details about the specifics of birds. Google and YouTube are places to start. Also, the National Audubon Society has a wealth of information waiting to fill the minds of birders everywhere.

The National Audubon Society, founded in 1905, is a great place to begin investigating birding and retaining knowledge of the seemingly endless species of birds. The non-profit organization is dedicated to conservation. They have local chapters around the world. The local chapter in Southeast Texas is called the Golden Triangle Audubon Society, aka GTAS. Beginner and novice alike are welcome. This group has not met since the pandemic began. However, there are field trips participants can enjoy while practicing the recommended social distancing requirements. There are several options to contact the GTAS. They can be reached by phone at (409) 722-5807, on their Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/ GoldenTriangleAudubon and their website, https://www.goldentriangleaudubon.org.

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Baileys road in Bridge City is a good place to see gulls. Blue Elbow Swamp and Claiborne West Park in Vidor are excellent places to visit.

The best time to watch birds, whether traveling or in the backyard is usually in the mornings during the day when the sun is high and starts to warm things up a bit.

If the small species of birds are not satisfying enough, the Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge located at 509 Washington Street in Anahuac, Texas, is extremely popular during the winter months for birders. Different species of ducks and geese migrate to the refuge during the winter. Therefore, large birds of prey flock to the refuge as well. Bald Eagles make a home there during the winter months to feast on the readily available food source. Some observers might be fortunate enough to watch an eagle swoop down to catch its dinner.

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To see the large birds of prey, the refuge has a drive-thru loop called The Shovelers Pond Loop, which is 2.64 miles long. There are spots to pull over to watch the magnificent Bald Eagles if wanting to gaze upon them a while longer. While driving through the loop, there are portable restrooms available to patrons since public restrooms are closed due to the pandemic. Keep in mind the Visitor Information Station is also closed. The Anahuac National Wildlife Refuge is open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset. No appointment is necessary. Masks are required along with social distancing per the governor’s mandate. The refuge can be contacted at the following phone number of (409) 267-3337.

They are also on Facebook. The Texas State Parks online lists all national parks, including a weather forecast several days ahead for each park to plan an appropriate day for a visit.

Travel time to the refuge is approximately one and a half hours from the city of Orange.

No specific equipment is required for this sport. However, Jackson did recommend a good pair of binoculars to see the inhabitants, which can be far away, better. He suggested

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purchasing a pair of binoculars with as large a lens diameter withing your price range, preferably an 8x32 or an 8x49. The number eight represents the magnification. The numbers thirty-two and forty-nine represent the lens diameter. Jackson stated the bigger the lens diameter, the more light allowed in the binoculars enabling better views of the beautiful, winged creatures in the early morning hours when there is not much light.

Jackson did specify the more expensive the binoculars, the better the glass. The better glass the more expensive the binoculars are going to be.

More-often-than-not, a picture of the subject is desired. If using a camera instead of a cell phone to take pictures, Jackson recommends visiting somewhere cameras are sold. He said to make sure to ask any questions about the camera and to hold the camera to see what feels good. A simple point and shoot will do but Jackson did emphasize pictures will be better and clearer the more megapixels the camera has.

Although there are so many options readily available to see and study feathered friends of all kinds, Jackson stated, “Start in your own backyard. It’s easy and costs no money.” 

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6 steps

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Remote working has become popular in recent years, but the “working-from-home” economy bloomed exponentially as the world was forced to confront the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to Stanford economist Nicholas Bloom, as of summer 2020, 42 percent of the United States labor force was working from home full-time.

The need for home office spaces has increased as more people work from home. Many people have retrofitted various spaces around their homes into areas to get work done.

More organized home work spaces can increase productivity. Individuals can follow these guidelines to create effective, organized home offices.

to organize your home office

Begin with the desk

1

The desk is the primary spot where work will take place. The right desk accessories can provide visual appeal and also serve practical purposes. Have cups for holding pens and pencils, baskets and bins for larger items, and store whatever you can elsewhere so it does not lead to clutter on the desk. Store wireless printers in a cabinet or even on a bookshelf so it doesn’t take up real estate on the desk.

Create a printing station

2

While you’re moving that wireless printer elsewhere, designate a space to serve as the central printing hub. This way children who need to print assignments for school will know where to go as well. Printer supplies like extra ink cartridges and printer paper can be kept in decorative storage boxes nearby.

Increase your shelving

3

Shelving can help keep items organized and off the desk in home offices without closets or drawers. Look for shelves that blend in with decor but are sturdy enough to be functional.

4

Organize paperwork

Figure out a system that works for you to help tidy up papers you choose to save.

While some papers can be scanned and stored as digital files, color-coded file folders can organize statements and other important documents. This makes it easy to find the folder you need when looking for certain documents.

5 6

Establish a charging station

Repurpose certain items, such as a desk organizer, into an easily accessible electronics charging station where phones and tablets can charge at one time.

Make essential binders

HGTV suggests making binders that can store the most important papers for easy access – even in an emergency. Set up a binder for automotive paperwork, including repair receipts, a medical binder where key medical records are kept, a binder for manuals for devices in the home, and one to store financial planning documents. 

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1

THINGS 2

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These masks make a statement. In the case of this offering from Israeli jeweler Yvel, that statement is, "I have $1.5 million to spend on a mask." An American art collector commissioned the custom jewelry firm to make the white gold wearable safety gear with 3600 white and black diamonds weighing in at 210 carats. It’s also a real mask: it has a spot to slip in an N-99 on the inside.

MASKING IN THE GLORY Masks are the new "must-have" accessory. No, seriously, you have to wear them. So, make the best of the situation and use masks as yet another canvas for showing the world your individual style. Whatever your style or your budget, what really matters is staying safe.

So, slip on that mask, get out, and take on 2021 in style!

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• Open Seven Days a Week • Medication Re lls • X-Ray on Site • Diet Programs • Diabetes • TB Skin Test • Minor Burns • Fever • Vaccinations • Stitches and Laceration Repair • Health and Wellness • Physicals • Lab Services • 24/7 Occ-Med Mobile Unit • Tele-Medicine • Covid-19 Rapid Testing

ORANGE – For those early morning workers that need a boost or for those folks winding down after a long day, Orange Nutrition is a great place to enlighten not only your taste bunds, but people’s health as well.

Chres and Zilpa Chapman opened Orange Nutrition a little more than three months ago.

Orange Nutrition, located at 1301 Green Avenue, is a great place to get teas and shakes with plenty of vitamins and healthy supplements to make everyone’s day a little more special.

The Loaded Teas, according to Zipa, have been the biggest sellers thus far.

There are a little more than 20 different flavors, including names such as Berry Blast, Hocus Pocus, Vampire Bite and Pink Lemonade.

“People really love our teas,” said Zilpa Chapman. “They can give you such clean energy. They have all of the proteins and vitamins that you need and they all have zero sugar. They are all very healthy and are a much better alternative to some energy drinks they have on the market.”

Orange Nutrition’s shakes are tasty as well, that includes many flavors that include Fruity Pebbles, Strawberry Coke, Butterfinger and several more that can whet the appetite.

Orange Nutrition promotes a healthy option for folks needing a boost

By Van Wade / Orange Leader

“Our shakes are popular too,” said Chapman.

“The only difference is that they have sugar in them but they are very low in sugar.”

Orange Nutrition also offers Nutribowls along with Coffee. Some of their delicious coffee flavors includes Ice Pumpkin, Ice Hazlenut and Ice Caramel Mocha.

Chapman says the business is really doing well and has a tremendous clientele early on, thanks to its great location.

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Zilpa Champman is always on hand to make tremendous teas and shakes to build up protein for all of the customers at Orange Nutrition.

“We do get quite a bit of business from the college students at Lamar State College Orange, especially with a lot of their nursing students,” said Chapman.

“People that work at the courthouse are also in here a bunch. My husband Chres and I are in it to help people with their health and bring smiles to faces. We promote weight loss as well as everyday nutrition.”

Orange Nutrition is not the only venture that the Chapmans are involved in.

They owned Tacos “La Shula” Mexican Restaurant that was located on Park Avenue in Orange.

The business suffered major damage during Hurricane Laura. So instead of re-opening at the old Park location, the Chapman plan to open the new Tacos “La Shula” early this year at the old Pizza Hut location by the Northway Shopping Center.

Orange Nutrition is open seven days a week. They are open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m.-3 p.m. and from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sundays.

Their full menu is on their Orange Nutrition Facebook Page and they are also on Instagram and TalkBack.

To place an order and for more information, call (409) 313-7916. 

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On the

Scene

Sabine to Galveston Study Signing

9.28.20

A signing agreement ceremony of historic significance was held on at the Orange County Convention and Expo Center in Orange with the Texas General Land Office, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and local elected officials.

This is a new Coastal Storm Risk Management project, featuring the construction of more than 15 miles of new levees and nearly 11 miles of floodwalls and gates. The improved system will also include seven pump stations, more than 50 drainage structures, and 32 closure gates.

Johnny Trahan, Kirck Roccaforte, and Lannie Brown

Theresa Beauchamp

Lori Ardoin and Michelle Tubbleville

Joel Ardoin, Robert Viator Jr. and Ida Schossow

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On the

Scene

LSCO Fishing Club sendoff

10.22.20

Lamar State College Orange and the community joined together to send off Fishing Club anglers, Brett Fregia and Jack Tindel III, to the B.A.S.S. National Championship in Leesburg, Florida.

Dagan Leger, Trace Moore, and Saithen Burns

Kooper Abernathy and Trent Buchholz

Wendy Elmore, Hunter Keeney and Nathan Campos

Jessica Hill, Dr. Thomas Johnson, and Thera Celestine

Jack Tindel II and Dr. Thomas Johnson

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On the

Scene Dallas ALS Walk

10.31.20

A host of people from all over the Orange and Southeast Texas area walked the downtown area of Orange to battle the fight of ALS and support local Orangeite Tony Dallas for all that he has done for the community.

Jake Lemoine, Tony Dallas and Lacey Lemoine

Tina Nimitz, Dawn Stanley and Kerilee Puckett

Jody Moore, Sam Moore and Tony Dallas

Susan Swan, Michelle Belcher and Emily Mellen

Photos by Van Wade

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On the

Scene Packing up Thanksgiving

11.17.20

Orange Rotary, United Way of Orange along with volunteers from WOS High School helped pack 500 boxes on November 17, 2020, for a Thanksgiving food giveaway. The record was 300 boxes packed in 45 minutes last year. This year, the volunteers packed 500 boxes in one hour. Captain Jan Zuniga said she had great volunteers who were up to the challenge.

Ashley Frazier and Nia Hodge

Photos by Dawn Burleigh

Brianna Schwartz, Tayzah Dews, and Victoria Vela

Captains Jan and Frankie Zuniga

Jessica HIll and Georgia Taylor

Lanie Brown and Sarah Boehme

Sherry Hommel and Maureen McAllister

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On the

Scene Music at the Oaks

The Oaks in Vidor held an event featuring 8 Second Ride with Layne Allen and Southern Exposure.

Donice Morace, Ronnie Herrera and Linda Corley

11.19.20

Photos courtesy of Donna Little

Linda Romero, aka The Queen of Vidor

Johnnie Andrus, Ettie Thompson, Donna Little and The Grinch

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On the

Scene

12.3.20

Toy Coffee The Service League of Orange, along with the Salvation Army and a lot of tremendous volunteers were busy taking wonderful donations of toys and canned goods during the Toy Coffee Celebration during the Holiday Season.

Photos by Van Wade

Keely Kole, Jennifer McConnell, and Kitty Hebert

Ebonie Landry, Lacey Lemoine, and De’mo Moffett

WANT TO SEE YOUR EVENT ON THE SCENE IN THE ORANGE LIVING MAGAZINE? Send us the name and date of your event with pictures. Name the people in the pictures from left to right.

Email us at news@orangeleader.com and use On The Scene in the subject line.

Kenneth Kemp, Patsy Kemp, Tricia Stroud, and Chad Stroud

January 2021 | 27 m

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On the

Scene

Pink Rooster Ribbon Cutting

12.8.20

Grand re-opening of Pink Rooster Treasures, 2492 MLK, Orange. Heidi Hyder's store was destroyed during Hurricane Laura, along with every business in West Point Plaza.

Since August, Hyder and crew have kept going out of a one-room shed until the rebuilding could be completed.

On December 8, the crew at Pink Rooster celebrated their re-grand opening as part of the "Jingle & Mingle" event which was put on

by Pink Rooster Treasures, Hippie Chix Boutique, Blossom Med Spa and Allstate. Jingle & Mingle was a collaborative event with each business offering treats and eats along with door prizes.

Photos by Ginger Broomes Kacey Burnitt and Angie Lane

Macy Beard, Shelby West, Kenedie Beadle, Whitney Moreland, Dayla Hulsey, Tami Kennedy, and Robin Milstead

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On the

Scene Game Day Fans

Fun times were had at the Orangefield-East Chambers basketball game in December as everyone was staying safe with all of the COVID-19 protocols.

Melanie Scales and Jennifer Gauthier

12.8.20 Photos by Van Wade

Payton Wrinkle and Zane Wrinkle

Kaden Frazier, Dello Trahan and Justin Cormier

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January 2021 | 29 m

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Why I Love O

Orange County

By Dawn Burleigh

Orange County Judge John Gothia has lived in the area since he was three years old. As an avid outdoorsman, Orange County is a place he enjoys calling home.

“There is a lot to do right here if you like the outdoors,” Gothia said. “If you like saltwater or freshwater fishing, you are 30 minutes from either anywhere in the county.”

From watersports, hunting and fishing, there is always a location available to enjoy the outdoors.

Another aspect Gothia appreciates about Orange County is the community.

“There is a community strength that comes from within,” Gothia said. “The whole county is close and helping each other out. We see it after the storms and disasters in the area.

The support is nothing short of fantastic.”

Gothia is a strong proponent for economic development in the area. So strong are his intentions for growing the area economically, he ran for and was elected as County Commissioner and then County Judge.

“The job opportunities here are good, but we can always improve,” Gothia said. “We need

jobs for the younger folks. So, it is two-fold, we have good job opportunities, but we need more.”

Gothia and his wife, Glynis, have been married for 30 years.

They have two boys, Hunter, 30, and Forest, 25.

Both are graduates of Bridge City High School.

Gothia was instrumental in bringing B.A.S.S Masters events to Orange County. A goal for bringing the event to Orange County was to bring attention to the area. The first event set record breaking numbers for attendance and set the bar to a new level for following events.

As County Judge, Gothia has said many times that will do all he can do to bring industry and business to town.

Gothia explained to grow the revenue base, people have been working diligently to bring businesses here.

“Orange County is open for business and open doors for businesses,” Gothia said. “To grow the county, city, we have to bring more people in the doors which brings more jobs.”

During his previous career, the opportunity rose for Gothia to move away from Orange and he chose not to do it. He and his wife always wanted to raise their family here and to retire here.

Another feature of the area Gothia enjoys is what he refers to as ‘good faith’.

“This is a good faith community,” Gothia said.

“The church is strong in the area.”

The churches are a valuable asset to the area. 

30 | January 2021 m

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1800 Strickland Dr. - Orange, TX

hondaoforangetx.com

New location

opens Spring 2021, featuring: Two-story multi-showroom shopping center located at 3500 IH 10 New customer cafe!

Indian motorcyles - Honda Powersports and equipment - eXmark and more!

New showrooms - New products!

In the heart of downtown Crowley, on the second and third floors of the Dixie True Value Hardware building is the 1901 Opera House.

505 North Parkerson Avenue Crowley, La. 337-785-0440 http://www.thegrandoperahouse.org

26th Germanfest October 3, 2020 8 a.m. - October 4, 2020 8 p.m.

Grounds of St. Leo Catholic Church Roberts Cove Rayne LA 70578 337-334-8354

The Historic Rice Theatre is home of Cajun Gospel and Country Music. Be entertained by local and International talents.

Hours vary by season. Special events are also scheduled.

Call for more information.

E-mail: ricecity@bellsouth.net

amy@acadiatourism.org

Kelly’s Landing 1109 Robert’s Cove Road Crowley, La. 70526 337-788-0546

Crowley Motor Co. & Ford Building 425 North Parkerson Avenue Crowley, La. 70526 337-788-0824 www.crowley-la.com

Le Vieux Presbytere Rue Ivy LeJeune & south Rogers Street Church Point, LA 70526 337-684-5692