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SELECTING A WEDDING CATERER FOOD FOR THOUGHT FROM THE GARDEN DISTRICT

LIVING IN THE HISTORIC DISTRICT WITH THE BURCHES

MEET MISTY SONGE GIVING BACK TO HELP THE COMMUNITY GROW

January 2022

ART HISTORY NATURE CULTURE

SOMETHING FOR

#SCVconnected

TABLE CONTENTS OF

PUBLISHER’S LETTER.............................4 ART

AMSET Winter Exhibition will explore the intimacy of daily life............................................................................. 6

HEALTHY EATING

Fresh Prep thrives so people can live and eat healthier.........................................................................8

RECIPE

Baked Ziti will heat up those chilly winter days.....10

FEATURE

Meet Misty Songe.......................................................12

DAY TRIP

Houston Zoo a pleasure trip for all ages..................14

FEATURED HOME

106-year-old house is home for the Burchs............16

RESTAURANT

Picking the right caterer for your event...................19

ON THE SCENE ......................................22-33

WHY I LOVE ORANGE COUNTY

Cindy Wyles ...............................................................30

Cover photo by Dawn Burleigh

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EDITOR’S LETTER Year’s resolvers and nonresolvers,” within six months of starting a resolution 46 percent of people are still maintaining their resolutions. Resolutions may seem silly to some, but there are several positive reasons to make them. • Resolutions provide practice setting goals. Goalsetting is an important component of life. Goals are key because they provide general direction in life. A goal is a map that can give you an idea of where you are heading and what path you need to take to get there, according to the self-improvement guide Success Consciousness. Resolutions can be fun, low-pressure goals. Think of them as dress rehearsals for bigger life changes. • Resolutions offer time for reflection. Too often

M 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.

Many people use the dawn of a new year as a time to create a list of resolutions that reflect positive changes they hope to make in the year ahead. Have you ever pledged a resolution and kept it? Yet, each year, in January, we are at it again. This year, to shake things up a bit, I am considering making a list of resolutions to break. My thought is for at least this one moment, I will have success. What better way to start the new year than a successful start? Between 40 and 45 percent of American adults make resolutions each year, according to the health and wellness group Proactive Mindfulness. According to John C. Norcross, Marci S. Mrykalo and Matthew D. Blagys, coauthors of the study “Auld Lang Syne: Success predictors, change processes, and self-reported outcomes of New

people are rushing through daily life without stopping or slowing down to truly assess the impact of their actions. Resolutions help you reflect on the past, present and future, figuring out what has been working and what may need to be changed to provide a boost, according to the wellness resource Alternative Daily. • Resolutions can serve as a catalyst for positive change. When something isn’t working with your routine, personal health or relationships, resolutions can serve as the catalyst that ultimately rights the ship. • Resolutions can promote self-esteem and empowerment. Making resolutions and keeping them can provide a sense of accomplishment that comes with goal-setting and following through. Resolving to lose five pounds and then seeing the proof on a scale can be a powerful motivator that compels you to make other self-improvements. Accomplishing small goals also can boost self-esteem. Resolutions are often made at the dawn of a new year. These efforts can provide the motivation and direction people need to make positive changes in their lives. What resolutions are you making in 2022? Happy New Year to you!

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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 409-883-3571 or by email at editorial@orangeleader.com.

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The Art Museum of Southeast Texas (AMSET) will exhibit Francesca Fuchs: Serious and Slightly Funny Things on view through March 13, 2022.

AMSET WINTER EXHIBITION

WILL EXPLORE THE INTIMACY OF DAILY LIFE Courtesy photo

Houston-based artist Francesca Fuchs creates paintings and sculptures about artifacts from our daily lives. Looking at mugs and thrift-store paintings, objects made by children or collected from her parents’ home, Fuchs considers how these things might describe the world around her. In some instances, she traces an object’s journey across decades; a mug she used in Germany in the 70s--inspired by Mexican painting traditions--is now remade in Houston, almost five decades later. What does it mean, Fuchs asks, to live with something, to use it every day, to see its relationships to types of objects in other homes? In paintings marked by subtle color and shadow, Fuchs dissolves the distinction between high and low, between personal and public, between what we feel and what we know.

“Houston-based artist Francesca Fuchs creates paintings and sculptures about artifacts from our daily lives.”

Duck and Dolphin, 2018, acrylic on canvas over board, 30 x 41.5 in.

Born in London and raised in Münster, Francesca Fuchs moved to the U.S. in 1996 for the Core Program at The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Fuchs’ work was featured in the 1992 New Contemporaries and has been shown in venues including The Whitechapel Art Gallery, London; The Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth; and in a solo exhibition at the Contemporary Arts Museum, Houston. She was the 2017 Josephine Mercy Heathcote Fellow at the MacDowell Colony, New Hampshire, and was Art League Houston’s 2018 Texas Artist of the Year. Fuchs is represented by Inman Gallery (Houston) and Talley Dunn Gallery (Dallas).

For more information, visit www.amset.org or call (409) 832-3432. 

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FRESH PREP THRIVES

SO PEOPLE CAN LIVE AND EAT HEALTHIER By Van Wade

Fresh Prep, in Bridge City offers tremendous healthy meals that can whet anyone’s appetite at amazing prices. Plus, there is that wonderful customer service that is so top-notch. Fresh Prep is one of the only places like this in the Southeast Texas area. People are learning what food can do to their body and are becoming more aware of what not to eat and Fresh Prep is the perfect location to learn how to eat healthy and prosper. Owner Carrie Richard, and her mother Beth Hanks, opened the meal prep service so people could live and eat healthier. They were later joined in the business by Maddison Bouget, operations manager. "We use no additives at all in our food," Richard said. "It's all God made, not man-made ingredients. It's organic, non-GMO. GMOs don't process in the body. It about how much you care." Get already made clean, healthy meals. All food is served in the best form found. Menu changes weekly and will be updated every Thursday.

From individual purchased meals to a whole weeks worth of food, choose from the weekly menu that changes every week. By appointment and order only. Text to set up times. Food will be prepared every Tuesday and payment is required before food is cooked. They prepare fresh, clean meals on a weekly basis customers can store in their refrigerators and grab on the go, according to their website. "We cook regular food, but it's clean," said Richard. "Clean, meaning real food, not with manmade seasonings. We serve no fried foods. Everything is gluten-free and most everything is soy-free. Sauces are made from scratch and homemade." The store is opened from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, snacks and sweets. They're open until 7 p.m. on Tuesday. Fresh Prep has also been wonderful helping people throughout the community. They have ran a special for the elderly and the disabled — people who are homebound and who can no longer cook for themselves — of seven meals for $50.

Peanut butter balls are one of their best sellers. Other popular dishes are jambalaya, Mexican eggs, lemon turkey, enchiladas, lasagna and smoothies. They also won an award for their chili in a chili cook-off.

Fresh Prep is located at 2467 W. Roundbunch Road in Bridge City. They can be located at 409-719-8941, info@freshpreptogo.com and https://www.facebook.com/freshprepllc 

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Baked Ziti

On those cold and chilly days, there is nothing quite eating something warm and tasty to fulfill an appetite. I like baked ziti to be almost like lasagna that forgot to use lasagna noodles. Messy. Gooey. Decadent. Ridiculous. In every good sense of the word.

By Van Wade

will heat up those chilly winter days Baked Ziti is a classic baked pasta dish. It’s basically some kind of tomato or meat sauce baked in a dish with some kind of cheese and, of course, ziti noodles—unless you’re me, then you use mostaccioli noodles. Some people just use tomato/ marinara sauce. That, of course, would

never fly in this house. There must be meat. Meat there must be. As for the cheese, some people use only mozzarella, while others prefer use a gooey cheese mixture stirred throughout. I’m in the latter camp.

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Everyone should try this recipe, it will not disappoint.

INGREDIENTS: • 2 tbsp. olive oil • 3 cloves garlic, minced

DIRECTIONS 1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and saute for several minutes, or until starting to soften. Add Italian sausage and ground beef and cook until browned. Drain off fat, leaving a bit behind for flavor and moisture. 2.

Add tomatoes, tomato juice, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes. After that time, remove 3 to 4 cups of the sauce to a different bowl to cool down.

Preheat oven to 375˚. In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 2 cups of the grated mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, and salt and pepper. Stir together just a couple of times (do not mix completely).

Drain the pasta and rinse under cool water to stop the cooking and cool it down. Pour it into the bowl with the cheese mixture and toss to slightly combine (there should still be large lumps.) Add the cooled meat sauce and toss to combine.

Add half the coated pasta to a large casserole dish or lasagna dish. Spoon half of the remaining sauce over the top, then top with half the remaining mozzarella cheese. Repeat with another layer of the coated pasta, the sauce, and the mozzarella. Bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbling. Remove from oven and let stand 5 minutes before serving. (Sprinkle chopped parsley over the pasta before serving!)

• 1 whole large onion, diced • 1 lb. Italian sausage • 1 lb. ground beef • 1 can (28 ounces) whole tomatoes, with juice • 2 cans (14.5 ounces) tomato sauce or marinara sauce • 2 tsp. Italian seasoning • 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes • Salt and pepper, to taste • 16 oz. ziti or mostaccioli, cooked until not quite al dente • 1 tub (15 ounces) whole milk ricotta cheese • 1 1/2 lb mozzarella cheese, grated • 1/2 c. grated parmesan cheese • 1 whole egg • Fresh minced parsley

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“I am raising someone’s husband,” Songe said. Knowing her sons will one day marry, she wanted to instill certain values into them as they grew up, such as giving back to the community

“I blame Robert [Viator] for my getting involved in politics,” she said with a laugh. Before getting involved with the city council, she managed a business in Vidor for 12 years. It is just another way she serves the community. “I do not know where it started,” Songe said. “I am a good coordinator. I find or hear f a need and ask for help, people trust that it is a good cause.”

ONE WOMAN GIVING BACK TO COMMUNITY By Dawn Burleigh Courtesy photo

Misty Songe has been described as tough on the basketball court, giving caring and compassionate. Married to Joey Garrett, they have four teenage sons. Brock and Eli are 15, Hayden is 16 and the eldest is Brayden at 18. “I am raising someone’s husband,” Songe said. Knowing her sons will one day marry, she wanted to instill certain values into them as they grew up, such as giving back to the community. “We have volunteer with Secret Santa and feeding people in need,” Songe said. Born and raised in Vidor, she is currently the mayor of the city but also has served on the Vidor Chamber Board and been involved in Vidor Rotary.

Recently, a high school outside the area was unable to play one week due to storm damage. Understanding what the team was going through, she coordinated collecting donations for the team and the Vidor High School Football team volunteered to help package the donations and lift another team’s spirits. She has also spent Saturdays picking up litter on the side of the roads to help clean up Vidor. Another occasion, she heard of a code enforcement issue of a home with no running water. “It took two minutes to get it turned on,” Songe said. “We had volunteers to fix the pipes and the roof. Everyone pitches in. It is a community circle that never stops.” All the while, leading by example and showing her sons a good role model. She admits she is strong willed. “I am a strong-willed person. I am my father’s child,” she said. Recently the city of Vidor was named as Music Friendly Community, she said she could not take credit for it. “City Manager Robbie Hood took charge of it,” Songe said. While working three jobs, she said she has little time to relax. “Plus, I am raising teenagers,” she said with a laugh. But when she does get a moment to sit still, her one-year-old Dalmatian is quick to curl up next to her. “We named him Cupid because of the heart shaped spot on his nose,” Songe said.

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SIMPLE STRATEGIES TO COMBAT STRESS EXERCISE REGULARLY

Just about everyone experiences stressful situations. Sometimes a measure of stress can provide motivation to do one’s best or strive for an especially lofty goal. However, when stress becomes a chronic condition, it can adversely affect individuals’ quality of life and even their overall health. Harvard Medical School says stress can manifest itself in myriad ways. Stress can cause tension headaches, indigestion, aches and pains, or even heart palpitations, and it may affect the mind by making it hard to concentrate or make decisions. Many people experience stress through emotional or psychological symptoms, such as irritability or feeling down. Learning how to effectively manage stress is essential for individuals’ overall well-being.

Exercise serves many functions, including acting as a potent stress relief strategy. The Cleveland Clinic says aerobic exercise releases endorphins, which are natural substances that help a person feel better and maintain a positive attitude. Movement activities like yoga or Tai Chi also can relax the mind and body and promote physical health. TAKE MEDIA BREAKS Overwhelming oneself with a barrage of negative news stories or constant information can increase stress levels. Individuals can strive to remain informed and still build breaks into their schedules. Shut off news programs, turn over the newspaper or tune out of social media from time to time. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that individuals who are stressed out by world events reduce the number of times they read the news or check the headlines each day.

MEDITATE OR PERFORM BREATHING EXERCISES Breathing and meditation can help alleviate stress, according to the American Heart Association. A quick meditation can provide some perspective. If a situation is stressful, go for a walk or take a few slow, deep breaths until the body relaxes. Harvard Medical School also says meditation can induce a relaxation response, which is an antidote to stress. CHANGE NEGATIVES TO POSITIVES Negative self-talk may increase stress, but positive self-talk can help a person calm down. Individuals should practice positive self-talk every day. Instead of saying, “I hate when this happens,” say, “I know how to deal with this, I’ve done it before.” A small amount of periodic stress can be a good thing. However, chronic stress poses a significant threat to individuals’ long-term health.

HOUSTON ZOO a pleasure trip for all ages By Van Wade

Serving as a 55-acre oasis in the heart of Houston, and neighbors with the world renown Texas Medical Center, the Houston Zoo, located at 6200 Hermann Park Drive, is home to wildlife from all corners of the globe. Gorillas, giraffes, elephants, storks, tortoises and many more species are waiting to teach you something you did not know about animals. Over two million guests visit the Zoo each year to explore an incredible variety of animals and ecosystems that immerse visitors into an educational and fun experience. The Zoo is open 363 days a year, only closed for Thanksgiving and Christmas.

More than 6,000 residents with claws, fins, wings, and hooves keep the dedicated and passionate team busy, as they work around the clock to provide meals, housing, and state-ofthe-art medical care to hundreds of different species. In addition to world-class animal care, the Zoo is a small city of its own, employing electricians, plumbers, accountants, and more to keep the Zoo running smoothly for the safety and well-being of its residents and guests. From maintaining facilities for massive elephants to finding the perfect trimmings for tiny leafcutter ants, it takes a lot to care for the animals. Luckily, all of the Houston Zoo family

the

Garden District

is steadfast in their commitment to connect communities with animals and inspire action to save wildlife. The Zoo’s commitment to saving animals extends far beyond its gates. Supporting wildlife conservation projects in more than 20 countries, the Houston Zoo aims to empower its guests to save animals in the wild through simple behaviors like recycling old cell phones and taking reusable bags to the grocery store. Additionally, a portion of every ticket and Zoo membership goes toward the important conservation work of the Houston Zoo and its partners.

7536 Hwy 87 N. - Orange, Texas 77632

409-883-9889

BRIDAL VENUE • RECEPTION HALL • CATERING REHEARSAL DINNER • SHOWERS MEETINGS 14 | January 2022 m

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KIPP AQUARIUM Including habitats from the coral reefs of the Pacific to the Amazon Basin and the Rift Valley lakes of Africa, this exhibit contains over 200 species of fresh and saltwater fish, including marine invertebrates. It is also home to a rescued sea turtle, a large school of piranhas, a green moray eel, the giant pacific octopus and the delicate moon jelly fish. CARNIVORES Hosting the University of Houston’s mascot Shasta the cougar, the carnivore exhibit is also home to the lion, Malayan tiger, clouded Leopard, American black bear, African wild dog, jaguar, Persian leopard and maned wolf. ALLEN H. AND ETHEL G. CARRUTH NATURAL ENCOUNTERS

For those adventurous visitors that want to get even closer to their favorite animals, opportunities abound. Book an exclusive Animal Encounter experience and interact with amazing animals like sea lions, rhinos, sloths, elephants, cheetahs, and more! Or, venture behind the scenes with a zookeeper and journey to staff-only areas of the Zoo and see what it is like to care for animals each day. Looking for something a little more laid-back? Stop by the giraffe feeding platform to feed a giraffe its lunch, take a ride on our Wildlife Carousel, or take your kids to meet the goats. Whether your trip to Houston lasts weeks or days, a Houston Zoo membership is a great way to enjoy the Zoo all year long. Even if your travels take you far from Houston, a Zoo membership has you covered, offering free admission or discounts to more than 100 zoos across America! Here are just some of the nice exhibits available: AFRICAN FOREST Called the most ambitious project in the zoo's then 88-year history, the African Forest officially opened on December 10, 2010. The exhibit is home to many African species, including Grant's zebra, white rhinoceros, Red River hogs, Masai giraffe, ostrich, chimpanzee, and the western lowland gorilla. In 2011, the Houston Press gave the Houston Zoo the Best of Houston Award for Best New Ecosystem. In October 2020, a new Pygmy hippopotamus named Silas was transferred to the Houston Zoo from the Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha.

MCNAIR ASIAN ELEPHANT HABITAT The McNair Asian Elephant Habitat is home to the Houston Zoo's herd of Asian elephants. It features a 7,000-square-foot barn custombuilt to house the bull elephants, a brand-new expanded habitat with a boardwalk with an unobstructed view of the elephants in their new yard, and a 160,000-gallon pool.

The Allen H. and Ethel G. Carruth Natural Encounters is a special building at the zoo where it simulates an adventure through an entire continent, learning about animals from the river’s edge, rainforest canopy, desert, and coral reef. Animals housed there include the Asian small-clawed otter, Damaraland molerat, golden lion tamarin, golden-headed lion tamarin, meerkat, naked mole-rat, Pygmy marmoset, southern three-banded armadillo, straw-colored fruit bat, white-faced saki, twotoed sloth, Eastern collared lizard, & aracari.

For more information regarding tickets and hours, call (713) 533-6500. 

Pickin an Grinin Antiques • Gifts Decor • Collectibles

267 Hwy 12 East, Orange, TX 77632

409-920-1153

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By Dawn Burleigh / Dawn Burleigh

BURCH TURNS ANOTHER HOUSE INTO A HOME

By Dawn Burleigh Photos by Dawn Burleigh

An Edwardian style house is described as cheerful, elegant, fresh and light while being wider and roomy with bigger hallways and more windows than a Victorian style house. A Prairie Style architecture has more emphasis on the horizontal than the vertical. Paul and Raul Burch’s home is a blend of Edwardian and Prairie Style making it a unique step back into time when you enter the house. It was built in 1916, making it 106 years old. With antiques gracing each room, on can

step back into another era while still feeling like they are visiting dear friend. A dining room has a table with hand carved faces along the edges and a cabinet which was in a plantation in New Orleans. “We found it at an estate sale in Scott, Louisiana,” Paul said referring to a lamp in the room. Paul, who is known for buying and flipping houses, said this is the last one. Friends would joke that he was beatifying Orange, one house at a time.

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As one enters the backyard, they notice the fragrance of floral while observing the temperature change as the tall greenery helps drop a few degrees. One observed they could almost forget they were in the city. He once lived in the house across the street from this one. Seven years earlier, he and Raul were married there. “We were not moving again,” Paul said. “But then we heard this house was for sale.” The house was previously owned by Ebb and Kim Moore. While they owned it, they restored it and added a porch, a building and a pool. As one enters the backyard, they notice the fragrance of floral while observing the temperature change as the tall greenery helps drop a few degrees. One observed they could almost forget they were in the city. Paul has a passion for antiques, and it shows in the décor. Each room, while unique in their own, show another side of Burch’s personality and brings it all together in one showcase

A bedroom on the second floor displays a bed with European carvings. “We were told it was from a most prominent in Galveston,” Paul said. “It is not conformed, but we are thinking it may be from the Bishop’s Palace from the 1800’s.” Downstairs is a crucifix and the Virgin Mary hanging on the wall. “They came from a farm in Iowa,” Paul said. “They are over 100 years old. A friend gifted them to me.” In another room is an image of Lady of Guadeloupe. “She is the Virgin Mother of Mexico,” Paul said. From unique railings on the staircase to a hidden vent a hood, the house is a spectacular blend of old and new without compromising either era.

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TIPS FOR CHOOSING A WEDDING RECEPTION MENU FOOD FOR THOUGHT FROM THE GARDEN DISTRICT Photos by Dawn Burleigh Photo courtesy of The Garden District

Weddings are memorable for a host of reasons. While couples remember their weddings because they mark the day they officially tied the knot, guests may remember weddings for other reasons, including the food served at the reception. To assure a successful bridal experience listed are a few suggestions upon choosing your wedding reception catering company. Look for an experienced caterer that will listen to your ideas, have a vision for what you want and will be opened to a wide variety of suggested menu options.

Shop around and compare catering companies. See what your options are in menu selections, pricing, services provided, discounts and payment plans. There may be price differences using glassware verses a quality disposable dinnerware. Many venues and catering companies will discount for a Friday or Sunday event. Food tasting appointments may be offered by some companies upon request. Your caterer should be accessible when questions arise and respond quickly for ease of mind.

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See if your caterer has expanded services that may include cake slicing, bartending services, linen rental and decorating ability. There are companies that offer champagne fountains, candy stations or chocolate machine and will offer discounts if you choose to include them with a catering package. Speak to your caterer’s previous clients and value their option of the experience they had with that company. Pictures do speak words. Ask to see pictures of past catered event by the company you choose. Feel comfortable and at ease with the company of choice. They are here to please you as the bride. Is your caterer experienced with the number of guests you are having in attendance at your reception? Ask how many staff members will be needed to help make the event run smoothly. Wait staff should be appropriately dressed and conduct themselves professionally at all times carrying on the duties defined in a contract. Foods should be presented to guests in an eye appealing manner whether on a buffet line

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or as tabled appetizers. Are the food items prepared in the company’s kitchen or are they precooked and ordered through a food service? Warming trays and chafing dishes keep foods hot and at appropriately safe temperature and should be included in the food presentation. Ask your caterer how long the foods will remain on line during the reception. The company may have a policy concerning the foods left over at the end of the evening. During the planning time with your catering company a relationship of trust and confidence will be the foundation of a successful experience. Food is the center of any gathering of people. There is comfort in the preparation of food, the grouping of people around a food table talking and laughing and making memories. Make a gathering at your wedding reception a memorable one with friends, family and loved ones enjoying the foods prepared by your choice of a dependable catering company. Choosing a wedding menu should be fun. Menus should reflect not only couples’ tastes but also include some popular foods so no one goes home hungry. 

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ON THE

SCENE Day of Caring

10.15.21

Courtesy photos

Several partner agencies of UW were treated to a Day of Caring both virtually and in person to help the agencies as they help residents of Orange County.

Captain Jan Zuniga, Kristen Evans, Maureen McAllister, Patty Collins, Karen Johnson, Dr. Thomas Johnson, Emily Mellen, Jurnee Dennis, and Kitty Hebert

Dawn Burleigh, Heather Montagne, Kristen Evans, Erin Talley, Mary McKenna, CRaig Lemmons, Noelle Walters, Sarah Wester and Maureen McAllister

Kristin Evans, Laci Gibbens, Kristen Placette and Captain Jan Zuniga

Maureen McAllister, Andrea McDaniel, John Blanke, Patti Steele, Alice Webster, Stephen Tew, Kyle O’Halloran, and Kristin Evans

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ON THE

SCENE 10.21.21 Together Thursday: Drywater Band Concert

Courtesy photos

United Way of Orange County and Dow presented two free outdoor concerts at Orange Riverside Pavilion, located at 708 Simmons Drive in Orange, Texas. The Drywater Band provided a high-energy live show which was dance focused and covers a wide variety of genres including Top 40, Pop, Rock and a little bit of Classic Soul. The band encourages audience participation and engages the audience with lots of dance floor interaction.

Brittney Jones and Stacey Nichols

Josh, Connie, Abbi, and John Curphey

Buffy Stracener and Charley Elkins

Lauren and Jason Rodrigue

Carly and Harlen Morales

Maureen McAllister and Mayor Larry Spears Jr

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ON THE

SCENE

Gatemouth Brown Plaza Dedication

10.28.21

Photos by Cindy Wyles

Lamar State College Orange President Dr. Thomas Johnson and members of Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown’s family cut the ribbon on a new outdoor plaza named for Gatemouth Brown, an Orange native and Grammy-winning musician.

Becky McAnelley, Dr. Michael Shahan, Patty Collins, and Stephanie Jones

Chris Kovatch, Leah Stark, Dawn Burleigh, Ginger Broomes, and Kacey Burnitt

Orange Mayor Larry Spears Jr, Suzonne Crockett, Leah Stark and County Judge John Gothia

Gatemouth’s niece, Brenda Brown and his brother Bobby Brown

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ON THE

SCENE Breakfast Connection

11.4.21

Photos by Dawn Burleigh

Greater Orange Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a Breakfast Connections at new home of Columbanus Motor Sports now located at 3500 Interstate 10 in Orange.

Angie Lane and Mindy Currie

Chris Kovatch and Pastor Demetrius Moffett.

Aaron Milligan and Mistie Carpenter

Justin Sauceda and Joseph Mayeux

Charlotte Alford and Jody Chesson

Keli Borel and Jennifer McConnell

Jennifer McConnell and Kacey Burnitt

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ON THE

SCENE Holiday in the Park

11.6.21

Photos by Dawn Burleigh

Holiday in the Park is the annual kick off to the holidays event as it is held the first Saturday in November in West Orange.

Cathy Ripley and Cheri Edwards

Cindy Roy, Megan Hogan, Stefanie Parks, Rylee Ramirez, Mallory Ramirez, Janois Grizzaffi, Kristin West

Laura Clark and Addy Geldard

Justice Marshall and Jeffery Marshall

Peggy Fuller and Sybil Hughes

Rex and Robin Peveto

West Orange Councilmamber Mike Shugart, Sr. and Mayor Randy Branch

Sheri Sherwin, Lee Wheat and Byran Parsons

West Orange Mayor Randy and Jane Branch

26 | January 2022 m

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ON THE

SCENE 11.11.21 Taste of the Holidays

Photos by Dawn Burleigh

Crowds flocked to the 3rd Annual Taste of the Holidays event hosted by Orange County Disaster Rebuild on Thursday night at the OC Expo Center in Orange. There was something for everyone with several vendors sharing samples of their menus as live music was provided. An event quickly becoming a tradition for kicking off the holiday festivities in Orange County.

Isa Weizenegger and Armend Hajdari

James Scales and Devin Nolan

David Derosier, Tina Nelson, Suzie Davis and Telisa Derosier

Sam Mims and Seth Hancock

Allison Cavala and Allyson Crawford

Morgan Jenner, Kirk Rockeforte and Kristy Khoury

Leslie Williams and Katie May

Thomas and FeLica Conway

January 2022 | 27 m

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ON THE

SCENE

Orange First Church of the Nazarene turns 100

11.13.21

Photos by Dawn Burleigh

Over 150 people gathered together to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Orange First Church of the Nazarene with a good old-fashioned church social. On Sunday, the celebration continued with a special service and the City pf Orange Mayor Larry Spears Jr proclaimed Sunday, November 14, 2021 as Orange First Church of the Nazarene Day.

Brian and Kay Sattle

Leslie and Billy Hicks

Holly and Cody Knotts

Kathy and Ron Emmert

Tim and Terri Click

Theresa Henry

Valerie and Michael Bell

Tyler and Hannah VanSteenburg

28 | January 2022 m

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ON THE

SCENE 11.18.21 Wine Down with Rotary

Photos by Dawn Burleigh

Wine Down with Rotary at Free State Cellars was a great opportunity to find out more about Orange Rotary and what they do for the community.

Antonio Hernandaz and Shannon Ezekiel

Dawn Burleigh and Sherry Hommell.

Ida Schossow and Bobby Hommell

Kacey Burnitt and Amy Dansby

January 2022 | 29 m

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ON THE

SCENE LC-M Send Off

11.26.21

Photos by Kacey Burnitt

Fans gathered to send off the LC-M Bears to the playoffs during a community pep rally held November 26. Battlin’ Bear blood runs deep!

Jeff and Sherri Fruge, Joel Fruge, Asher Call, Lauren Peet, Josephine and Genevieve Fruge

James and Jennifer Wright, Jack Benson, Louann Benson, Remi and Sofia Wright

LC-M's Number One Fan Mr. Pete Mota.

Jeff and Jamie Pollack, with Easton and Gracelyn

Eric and Amy Peevey with Will and Greyson

Jennifer and Lauren Corrao

Cory and Aleena Rambo

Teri and Greg Goodwin with Brett

Bubba and Laura Tipton

30 | January 2022 m

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ON THE

SCENE

Breakfast Connection/Food Drive

12.2.21

Photos by Dawn Burleigh/

Orange County donated over 16,000 pounds of food during the annual Granger Chevrolet and KOGT Radio Can Food Drive benefiting The Salvation Army and Orange Christian Services. The annual event is traditionally held on the first Thursday of December each year.

All Granger and Captian Frankie Zuniga

Chris Kovatch, Kay Duhon and Kacey Burnitt

Eugene Gill, Stephen Samuel, Loyd and Leslie Thurman with Taryn Vidalier

Kimberly Manning and Charlotte Alford

Mary McKenna and Maureen McAllister

Ola Kindle, Benitris Edwards, and Kreshondra Armstrong

January 2022 | 31 m

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Brian and Kay Sattle

ON THE

SCENE Toy Coffee

Photos by Dawn Burleigh

Toy Coffee, an event of the Service League of Women to benefit the Salvation Army, is held on the first Thursday in December. In the early years, the women distributed Christmas Baskets to families and toys for children.

12.2.21

Now, with the Toy Coffee benefit, toys collected as an admission, go to the Salvation Army as well and are handed out to Orange County children that may not have received anything if not for this event. Toy Coffee is the sole responsibility of the Service League members and is well worth the time and effort to ensure children of Orange County have something under the tree on Christmas Day.

Carolyn Gray and Brandy Psencik

Chairman Patsy Kemp, Raul and Paul Burch and President Sherry Stalnaker

Nancy Davis and Carol Sims

Peggy Wells and Carol Nance

Raul Burch and Captain Jan Zuniga

Susie Freiberg and Tricia Stroud

32 | January 2022 m

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ON THE

SCENE

Southeast Texas Hospice Toilet Paper Tea

12.9.21

Photos by Dawn Burleigh

An annual tradition is the Toilet Paper Tea hosted by Southeast Texas Hospice on the second Thursday of December. The event helps bring awareness to the organization as well as assisting with helping assist a group, which has helped so many families in Orange County over the years.

Belinda Thibodeaux, Myrna Stimac, and Christie Fall, RN

Benitris Edwards, Mary McKenna and Terrie Salter

Gayle Culp, RN and Paula Tacker, LMSW

Stacie Obanion, RN and Pastor Jeff Bell

January 2022 | 33 m

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WHY I LOVE

ORANGE COUNTY

CINDY WYLES By Cindy Wyles

When we grow up in a small town, many times we look forward to the day when we can move on to a bigger, brighter city that offers more opportunity to grow and expand our horizons. I was one of those “brighteyed, ready to conquer the world” high school graduates, anxiously awaiting my time to fly away to grab my fame and fortune. Of course, we never considered the fact that any city is comprised of buildings, people, and possibilities. But, after spending a handful of years in Dallas, I came to realize that all cities really are the same, and opportunities are where you make them. This knowledge led me back to a place that wasn’t just a city made of buildings and people, but the place that I had always called “home”. Orange is so much more than just a small town on the right side of Texas. Orange is a unique community where opportunities abound in ways that may astonish the average visitor. One of the things that fascinate me the most about Orange is the history of the area. Many people do not realize the economic impact that was made by this charming little town during wartime and the industrial boom. Boasting some of the wealthiest people in the U.S. and other far-reaching places, Orange was poised to set a precedent for many generations to come. Of course, when I think of the downtown area of Orange, my thoughts always go to the arts and the amazing offerings at places like the Stark Museum of Art or the worldclass performances at the Lutcher Theater. I was thrilled, several years ago, with the renovation and reopening of Shangri La Botanical Gardens. It is such a beautiful and tranquil place, always welcoming, and stunning for all of us to enjoy. When thinking about first-class, I, of course, think of the place very close to my heart. Lamar State College Orange actually was my “first” class and has always been the bestclass in offering opportunities of the highest quality education. As many have referred to

it as “the beautiful little campus downtown”, LSCO has grown, over the years, to become the place where we honor tradition and build for the future. Today I am proud to say Lamar State College Orange IS where hope meets opportunity. Opportunity is found everywhere you look in Orange. It is a place that so many give of their time, talent, and treasure. Orange reminds me that it may be a “small” town, but it has a huge heart. Everyone knows you and your family. People gather to “pass a good time”, to lend a hand to those in need, and to share a common belief in giving of ourselves to those around us. Dining in Orange has always made me proud. When friends and family visit, they never fail to ensure they get that “taste of home.” Seafood overflows, Cajun cuisine is at it’s finest, and we boast some of the best Tex-Mex this side of Texas! Growth is evident in Orange. I mean, when a Starbucks and Chick-fil-A land on the corner, you know you’re moving up! The other unique restaurants in Orange are amazing. I have tried each and every place, multiple times, and marvel at the variety and exceptional quality!

The businesses in Orange are remarkable! I am always so happy to shop local and give back to those that have taken that leap of faith to share their products and services with our community. When I hear anyone say they shopped “out of town,” I often ask why. Taking the time to look around, anyone can find just about anything! There is literally anything you could possibly want, right here in Orange. I have long since been an advocate of finding it local, supporting our friends and neighbors, and watching it grow our community. So, when you ask me “what I love about Orange,” I have to say, I love it ALL. Coming “home” all of those years ago was the smartest decision I have ever made. We truly do have an area that should boast the best of the best. World class entertainment, best-in-class education, cuisine to match no other, amazing commerce and industry, and a community of caring, giving, downhome people – we have it ALL.

34 | January 2022 m

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Jim Sharon was born

and raised in Orange, Texas. Jim Sharon has been practicing law for 22 years. He specializes in 18 wheeler accidents, criminal law and divorce. He is also the Judge of the Municipal Court of Orange.

ABOUT THE FIRM  No jury trial losses since 2000.  Rated 9.5 “Superb” by largest online attorney rankings service for 2014.  Voted best criminal lawyer by the Orange Leader Poll of 2009-2010.  Awarded “Superb” rating by the largest online directory of attorneys.  Voted president of Orange County Bar Association for 2011.  Lawyers include the former District Attorney of Orange County, Texas.  Lawyers include the former County Attorney of Orange County, Texas.  Lawyers include a former Judge in Orange County, Texas.  Successful personal injury case in 2010 leading to over $1,000,000.

THE BEARDEN LAW FIRM 116 Border Street, Orange, Texas 77630 Tel: 409-883-4501 • Fax: 409-883-0259