2+ week, 4+ day ago (78+ words) [Book signing/reading highlights local authors, readers]A book singing and reading event was held Nov. 8 featuring Rev. Harry Abrams" book How To Heal Your Mind from Addiction to Deliverance and Rhonda Calcote"s book Yes, I Can. Published 4:40 pm Friday, November 14, 2025 A book singing and reading event was held Nov. 8 featuring Rev. Harry Abrams" book How To Heal Your Mind from Addiction to Deliverance and Rhonda Calcote"s book Yes, I Can....

4+ week, 5+ hour ago (258+ words) Published 1:02 pm Tuesday, November 4, 2025 A classroom writing assignment has turned into a published novel for Wilson Early College High School junior Andersson Gervacio, who recently released his debut book, Asani, on Amazon. "I never expected that something I wrote for class would turn into a real book," Gervacio said. "My teacher's encouragement and the support of my classmates inspired me to keep writing. I hope my story shows other students that their ideas are worth pursuing." Described as a vivid and emotional story, "Asani" draws readers into its world with detailed imagery and heartfelt storytelling. Gervacio's accomplishment has earned praise from teachers and administrators across Port Arthur ISD. "Seeing where this young man came from and the struggles he went through, he stands as an example to all students that hard work pays off," said Principal LaSonya Baptiste. "You just…...

2+ week, 1+ hour ago (160+ words) [Hispanic Business Association of SETX hosts annual Camino al Exito]The Hispanic Business Association of SETX hosted its annual Camino al Exito banquet, celebrating success and small businesses within the local communities." Each year, the event seeks to highlight members in and outside the Hispanic community by spotlighting their stories at the Banquet. This year's speakers were Bruce Tipton of Skyline Safety, Dr. Elena Xintavelonis, [] [Hispanic Business Association of SETX hosts annual Camino al Exito]The Hispanic Business Association of SETX hosted its annual Camino al Exito banquet, celebrating success and small businesses within the local communities. Each year, the event seeks to highlight members in and outside the Hispanic community by spotlighting their stories at the Banquet. This year's speakers were Bruce Tipton of Skyline Safety, Dr. Elena Xintavelonis, Tom Noyola and Yamile Odle. Leimy Rocha, Gabriela Rosario and…...

3+ week, 7+ hour ago (216+ words) Published 4:08 pm Tuesday, November 11, 2025 A Port Arthur church is working to make sure families in need can sit down and enjoy a meal. Life Church, located at 4600 Jimmy Johnson Blvd., is hosting weekly Pop-Up Pantries where they distribute 200 family bags. Each bag has the makings of a meal with a recipe and dessert." The church will distribute the family bags starting at 10:30 a.m. Thursdays until the New Year. No questions are asked and it does not count as the church's regular food pantry." Rev. Jessica Robbins said she has seen a lot of tears from grateful individuals during the distributions. Some did not receive their SNAP benefits, some are between paychecks and others are caregivers." "This will help a family be able to sit around the table, eat a meal together, and connect with each other," Robbins said. The Pop-Up Pantry…...

2+ week, 4+ day ago (599+ words) Published 4:46 pm Friday, November 14, 2025 Forget mass-produced gifts and overnight shipping. This holiday season, Southeast Texas small businesses are offering something better " unique, handcrafted, and heartfelt gifts that carry the story of the people who make them. From artisan goods and local food to experiences you won't find online, these local finds bring true meaning to "shop local." Below are a few standout ideas from shops and makers who embody the spirit of Southeast Texas " and make gift-giving a little more personal this year. Gift type: Experience | Price range: $10$900 Location: 1645 Jefferson Drive, Port Arthur While big-box retailers push gadgets and gift cards, some of the best presents can't be boxed up; they're experienced. At The Humidor Lounge, cigar enthusiasts can give (or enjoy) the gift of relaxation in one of Southeast Texas's few true cigar lounges. Founded by David Marcel and…...

3+ week, 4+ day ago (585+ words) Published 5:32 pm Friday, November 7, 2025 Editor's Note: This is the second story in an eight-part series on why shopping local matters this holiday season. In a world of chain stores and online shopping carts, local business owners across Southeast Texas are proving that community still matters " one cup of coffee, one printed T-shirt, and one familiar smile at a time. Two of those faces, Janna Bartz, owner of The Golden Cup Coffee Shop in Nederland, and Carrie Garcia, co-owner of Complete Athlete in Groves, are among the many entrepreneurs keeping the local economy vibrant through their passion, persistence, and people-first approach. When Bartz opened The Golden Cup, she wasn't just chasing her love of coffee " she was creating what she calls a "third space," a warm middle ground between home and work where people can connect. "I wanted to create a…...

4+ week, 11+ hour ago (127+ words) Published 12:30 pm Tuesday, November 4, 2025 By Darragh Doiron - Culinary Thrill Seeker It's more than a bumper sticker thought that the beach refreshes the soul. Catch a sunrise on the shore to remind you of your place in the world. We're blessed to enjoy the Gulf's beautiful waves on a peaceful day. It's spiritual. By the way, a quickie tour of Camp Margaritaville Resort Crystal Beach impressed as well. In addition to a way-cool concert arena, guests can dine with flair or take a dip in the License to Chill pool. Darragh Doiron is a Port Arthur area foodie working to experience as many new flavors as possible before 2025 is history. Share your ideas with her via [email protected]...

4+ day, 7+ hour ago (112+ words) Published 4:29 pm Friday, November 28, 2025 NEDERLAND "The Aref family held their Annual Turkey Giveaway this week, distributing 500 turkeys with apples, sweet potatoes and goodie items. The giveaway was held at the former Mid Jefferson Hospital Parking Lot, 2600 FM 365, in Nederland. The drive-thru event brought the Aref family and numerous volunteers, some of whom included Kay DeCuir, Thurman Bartie, Christopher Bates, James Arceneaux Jr., Albert Turner, Josh Osgood and baseball team, Nederland Police, Port Arthur Police, Nederland Key Club, Yolanda Avery, Zulema Escobedo, and Goldbeam Electrical. Joe Aref, a proud Port Arthur native, said it means a lot to give back to the community....

2+ week, 7+ hour ago (200+ words) Published 3:52 pm Tuesday, November 18, 2025 By Darragh Doiron - Culinary Thrill Seeker Our area's oil industry is something to celebrate. Here are two holiday-related ways. Museum of the Gulf Coast features a mural and other displays focusing on the area's oil heritage. Enjoy it all for free from 10 a,m.- 1 p.m., Dec. 6 for Jingle All the Way Family Fun Day at the Museum. Beware The Grinch." Here's how they describe three newbies in the line: Tempura Seaweed Chips " Real umami seaweed coated in light tempura batter and seasoned with either simple sea salt or a sweet and mildly spicy sriracha blend. Sticky Rice Chips " Handmade chips featuring whole grain, Japanese-style Mochi sticky rice harvested from sustainable farms in Thailand." Mochi Rice Nuggets " Offered in Teriyaki or Tom Yum flavors and made with short grain, slightly sweet white rice baked to a crisp. Enjoy Teriyaki…...

1+ week, 2+ hour ago (339+ words) Published 4:09 pm Tuesday, November 25, 2025 By Sierra Kondos - Special to the News The event held on Nov. 24 featured live music from St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Christmas vendor booths and the new caf, "Sweets & Caf" serving holiday magic in a cup. Mall organizers said this year's theme was designed to evoke the childhood magic many residents remember from the mall's early days, while also appealing to younger generations who expect bold, Instagram-ready visuals. "It's nostalgia meets now," Daniel Cruz, Cruz Event's coordinator and owner, said. "A lot of people grew up coming to Central Mall for Christmas, and we wanted to celebrate those memories while giving families something new to enjoy." For Cruz, this year's display carried a personal meaning. He said it felt "full circle" to return to the mall he grew up visiting as a child, now as the…...