James Martinez, 89, of Vidor, TX, passed away on Thursday, April 17th, 2025, at his home surrounded by his loving family. A longtime resident of Vidor, James was a devoted member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. He was known for his quiet strength, gentle spirit, and deep love for his family. James had a lifelong appreciation for the simple things in life—whether it was sitting down to watch a good football game (especially cheering on his beloved Dallas Cowboys), enjoying an old Western or Mexican movie, or reminiscing about family trips to Mexico, which he always held close to his … [Read more...] about James Martinez
Officers Named at OHS
Recently, the Orangefield High School Speech and Debate team elected officers for the 2025-2026 school year. Congratulations to the following: Captain-Carter Munson-Appleby, Lieutenant-Grayson Rickenbrode, Parliamentarian-Kase White, Historian-Azalie Allen, and Treasurer/Secretary-Breanna LaSalle. The team is sponsored by Bridget Luna Trahan. Outgoing Captain Jett Stevenson commented, “I was honored to pass the torch to Carter.” New Captain Carter Munson-Appleby expressed his goals for the upcoming school year, “OHS Speech & Debate will have an amazingly successful season and I am proud … [Read more...] about Officers Named at OHS
Man Found In House Fire
Just after 11 PM Friday, firefighters responded to a reported structure fire at 6010 Pipeline Road in Orange County. Upon arrival, firefighters found a trailer home heavily involved in flames and smoke coming from the bedroom, according to Chief Robert Smith. There were reports of an individual still inside of the residence. A firefighter attempted to rescue the male occupant and received injuries. He had to be taken to a Beaumont hospital for treatment. One male victim was pulled from the fire and CPR was attempted for about 30 minutes. The victim was declared deceased on scene by … [Read more...] about Man Found In House Fire
Depot Day Coming Soon
Family fun galore will be found at this year’s annual Depot Day, Saturday, May 3, 10AM-2PM, at the Orange Train Depot Museum, 1210 Green Ave. in Orange. Sponsored annually by the Friends of the Orange Depot, the event raises funds to help sustain the historic depot. Children will enjoy the trackless train ride, pony rides, balloon twister on stilts, face painting, bouncy house, and mechanical airplanes and buckin’ bronco. Orange Community Players will provide musical entertainment and the Orange Blossom Dancers will be again dancing in the street. Prizes awarded from the drawing … [Read more...] about Depot Day Coming Soon
Small Business Summit In Orange
Governor Greg Abbott today announced the next 2025 Governor’s Small Business Summits will be held in Orange on April 24. Held throughout the year and in regions across the state, the Governor’s Small Business Summits aim to help Texas small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs succeed by connecting them with the resources and information needed to start, strengthen, and grow a business. “Small businesses are the cornerstone of our vibrant communities and the driving force behind Texas’ booming economy,” said Governor Abbott. “With more than 3.3 million small businesses across Texas, … [Read more...] about Small Business Summit In Orange
Regional Track Results
Friday our 4A Regional representatives were in Bullard for Day One of the Regional Meet while those who made Regionals from Orangefield were at the 3A Regional in Huntsville. Field events and the 3200 results are finals. And there will be some Field Events on Saturday along with the running finals which are the top 8 qualifiers from Friday. As of Friday, Orangefield's Zach Morrow is the only State Qualifier from Orange County, winning the Pole Vault. The Top 2 finishers will advance to State. 4A Regional Results from Friday 3A Regional Results from Orangefield … [Read more...] about Regional Track Results
Michael D. Hughes
Michael D. Hughes, beloved father, grandfather, mentor, and community leader, passed away peacefully on the evening of Monday, April 14, 2025. Born on September 28, 1962, Michael was a proud graduate of Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, earning his degree in 1986. He was a distinguished alumnus of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity, forming lifelong bonds and memories with his fraternity brothers. As the longtime owner of Superior Tire & Service, Michael was known for his dedication, leadership, and impact in his profession and his community. Michael was a longtime mentor and coach of … [Read more...] about Michael D. Hughes
Randolph “Randy” Louis Kott
On Monday, April 14, 2025, our beloved Randolph Louis Kott, “Randy,” went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, at the age of 81. Randy talked often with his friends and family about Jesus and looked forward to having everyone together in Heaven one day. Born June 30, 1943, at the height of World War II in Houston, Texas, to Rudolph Louis and Dorothy Jean Kott, Randy and his brother Gary were raised solely by their mother until their father returned from war. Randy loved to say that his childhood felt like something out of a “Leave It to Beaver” episode. His favorite stories … [Read more...] about Randolph “Randy” Louis Kott
Thursday Baseball Scores
Because of Good Friday, area baseball teams and one softball game were played on Thursday. LCM 10 Jasper 1 - Clay Raney 3-4 3RBI'S Orangefield 3 Hardin 1 Lumberton 5 Vidor 2 Silsbee 20 WOS 1 - BC softball lost a seed game to Silsbee 11-5. Playoffs TBA Playoff series that are set are listed below … [Read more...] about Thursday Baseball Scores
My Five Cents
A weekly column from Sen. Robert Nichols This week we observed Holy Week and remember the sacrifice Christ made for us. We look forward to celebrating the resurrection this Easter Sunday. I hope you enjoy time with your families this Easter weekend. Here are five things happening around your state: The Senate passed Senate Bill 2365 by Sen. Brandon Creighton unanimously this week. The bill would require local school boards to adopt a policy prohibiting students from using cell phones during instructional time. The bill does require school boards to make exceptions for … [Read more...] about My Five Cents
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