Weiss named to Chamber EDC committee
The Greater Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce announced the appointment of Lauren Weiss to its Economic Development Committee (EDC).
Chamber President and CEO Joe Tant said Weiss brings a “strong passion” for economic progress and community advancement, along with a dedication to building meaningful partnerships that support local businesses and industry. In her new role, Weiss will collaborate with fellow committee members to identify opportunities, support strategic initiatives, and contribute to efforts that enhance the region’s economic landscape.
“The EDC plays a vital role in aligning business interests with regional growth, serving as a bridge between industry leaders, stakeholders, and community partners. Weiss’s addition reflects the Chamber’s continued focus on bringing in forward-thinking individuals who are eager to make an impact,” said Tant. “Her perspective and enthusiasm for economic development will be a valuable asset as we continue to support and advocate for business growth in our region.”
With 14 years of experience in the industry, Weiss currently serves as regional sales manager for the Gulf Coast at Williams Valve. She is an active leader and contributor across the region, serving on the Board of Directors for the Greater Mobile Industrial Group and as chairman of the Louisiana Pipeliners Association committee.
Weiss is also a member of several key industry organizations, including the Gulf Coast Industrial Group, Golden Triangle Industrial Group, and the Greater Port Arthur Chamber of Commerce. Her professional affiliations extend to the Greater Baton Rouge Industry Alliance, Baton Rouge Industrial Group, and the Louisiana Chemical Association.
In addition to her industry leadership, Weiss is a licensed and insured general contractor in the state of Louisiana — and a mother of four.
Brown presented T. Kelsey Lamb Sr. Award
The Rotary Club of Beaumont announced that Bradley Brown, CPA (retired) was the winner of the T. Kelsey Lamb Sr. Award for Business Ethics.
The award is presented each year to a Beaumont Rotarian who demonstrates the highest ethical standards embodied in the Rotary Four-Way Test in their professional life.
Brown served as president of the Rotary Club of Beaumont in 2021-22.
Established in 1996, the award honors the memory of the late T. Kelsey Lamb, Sr., who served as president of the Rotary Club of Beaumont in 1942-43 and as district governor in 1951-52.
Christus Health receives ‘A’ national recognition for patient safety
Christus Southeast Texas-St. Elizabeth has earned an ‘A’ grade from Leapfrog, which is the highest possible rating for patient safety. The grade recognizes the hospital’s commitment to preventing medical errors and harm.
“This recognition speaks to our team’s continued commitment to patient safety,” said Mary Goodwin, director of quality for CHRISTUS Southeast Texas – St. Elizabeth. “We are proud to serve our community with a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care and safety.”
Leapfrog’s Hospital Safety Grade assigns letter grades to nearly 3,000 hospitals nationwide each spring and fall. The grades are based on more than 30 evidence-based measures of patient safety, including maternity and critical care, medication practices, surgical outcomes and the prevention of medical errors.
According to Leapfrog, of the nearly 3,000 hospitals graded, less than one-third received an ‘A’ rating. This is the hospital’s fourth consecutive year to receive a top grade in the national hospital safety survey.
“This achievement reflects the strong systems and accountability our team has built to keep patients safe,” said Paul Trevino, chief executive officer for Christus Southeast Texas Health System. “We are committed to delivering dependable, patient-centered care our community can trust.”
County Bancshares founder dies
Carlos R. Vacek, founder of County Bancshares, the holding company for First State Bank of Texas, died May 9 at age 89.
Vacek served as president, CEO, and chairman of the board for both the holding company and the bank.
The Blessing, Texas native was a talented multi-sport athlete for the Tidehaven Tigers. From there, he was offered a scholarship to play football at Texas Christian University (TCU), where he played in two Cotton Bowls and the Bluebonnet Bowl. TCU scored a 28-27 victory over Syracuse University, led by Jim Brown, in the 1957 Cotton Bowl.
He also served in the United States Marine Corps Reserve.
Vacek graduated from TCU with a degree in finance and went on to build a career in banking that spanned more than 50 years.
Funeral services for Vack was May 14 at Dorman-Riley Smith & Sons Funeral Home in Orange. Graveside services was May 16 at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing.
CPChem honored by ACC
Chevron Phillips Chemical Co. (CPChem) was recognized by the American Chemistry Council (ACC) with two of the Responsible Care program’s highest honors: Responsible Care Company of the Year and Responsible Care Initiative of the Year.
The awards recognize CPChem’s sustained leadership in environmental, health, safety and security performance, as well as its commitment to continual improvement and responsible operations across its global footprint.
The honors were announced as part of ACC’s Responsible Care and Sustainability Awards program, which highlights companies demonstrating exceptional performance and long‑term commitment under the Responsible Care program.
ISTC opens new badging center
May 4, the Industrial Safety Training Council’s (ISTC) new badging center opened its doors and within an hour processed approximately 100 badges.
The first individual to receive the first proximity badge in the new space was Braulio Moreno with Apache Industrial. The former badging center was a triple-wide trailer.
Designed with convenience in mind, the badging center allows contractors and employees to complete required training, background checks, occupational medicine, and obtain proximity badging all in one location, making the onboarding process more streamlined, efficient, and accessible.
Designed to improve the customer experience and support the growing needs of the Southeast Texas industry, the new facility features expanded space and improved workflow, 14 customer check-in stations, six dedicated badging areas, comfortable waiting and gathering spaces, and conference and meeting rooms with advanced AV capabilities.
ISTC officials said the new space is another step forward in improving the customer experience and continuing to evolve how the company serves industry across Southeast Texas. An open house is slated for Thursday, July 9 from 4-6 p.m.
SETX companies earn safety awards
The Associated General Contractors of America recognized 10 Southeast Texas companies that earned the Associated General Contractors of America National Safety Award for 2025, combining for an incredible 1.9 million man-hours worked with zero lost workdays.
The companies were Daniels Building & Construction, Inc., G&G Enterprises, H.B. Neild Construction, Jefferson Electric Co. Inc., Mason Construction LLC, MK Constructors, N & T Construction Co., RT Technical Solutions LLC, SETEX Construction Corp and Triple “S” Industrial Corp.
TotalEnergies, Veolia sign agreements
Building on the partnership agreement signed in October 2025, TotalEnergies and Veolia are marking the expansion and extension of their operations at the Port Arthur refinery on May 11. This was done through the signing of two agreements that deepen their shared commitment to water stewardship and total waste management solutions.
Last year, the two companies came together to leverage each other’s industry leader positions and global presence to further cooperation in energy transition and circular economy, aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and water footprint. The signing ceremony signals a bold new chapter leveraging the breadth of Veolia’s capabilities with defined ambitious environmental targets, innovative resource recovery, and a shared vision for what responsible industrial operations can look like.
“The Port Arthur refinery has always been committed to operating responsibly and efficiently,” said Raphaël Duflos, general manager at TotalEnergies Port Arthur. “This expanded partnership with Veolia reflects our determination to go further, reducing our environmental footprint while improving on the operational excellence our teams are known for.”
TXCPA recognizes award recipients
April 29, the Texas Society of CPAs (TXCPA) Southeast Texas Chapter Meeting was held with Lamar University faculty and students to recognize this year’s award recipients.
They were Ashton DeRouen, Accounting Excellence Award recipient; Peyton Jones, Chapter Endowed Scholarship recipient; and Scholarship recipients Michael Vu and Angela Arceneaux.
Also recognized was Dr. Orrin Swift as the 2024-2025 Faculty Research Award recipient and honored Chip Majors for his service as 2025-2026 chapter president.
During the program, Majors presented the President’s Special Recognition Award to Josh LeBlanc, CPA.
Hayek appointed president at LSCPA
Interim President Dr. John C. Hayek has been appointed as the next president of Lamar State College Port Arthur (LSCPA), pending approval of the Board of Regents at its May 2026 meeting.
In a press release, Hayek said he was “deeply honored” to be recommended to serve as president.
“Over the past several months, I have had the privilege of getting to know this college and the welcoming Southeast Texas community,” he stated. “What stands out most is the dedication of our faculty and staff, the ambition of our students, and the warmth and resilience of the community, along with the strength of our partnerships with business and industry. I have also been struck by the passion for this college, the quality of its facilities and programs, and the tremendous opportunity ahead.”
Hayek said LSCPA plays a vital role in expanding access and opportunity through its academic and technical programs, workforce training, and pathways that lead directly to meaningful careers.
“That mission is more important than ever, and I am excited to continue building on the college’s strong foundation,” he said.
In the months ahead, Hayek said he looks forward to working alongside staff to strengthen student success, grow workforce-aligned programs, and deepen the school’s impact across the region.
“I am truly excited about the opportunity to continue our work together and to serve this remarkable college and community,” he added.
SRA gives $30K grant to Orange
The city of Orange announced the Sabine River Authority (SRA) presented a $30,000 grant supporting improvements to the city’s water system on May 1.
According to city officials, the funds are designated for portable automatic flushing hydrants, which will allow the city to schedule system flushing during off-peak hours.
“This will help maintain consistent operating pressures and proper chlorine levels, reduce discoloration in low-usage areas caused by naturally occurring minerals like iron, manganese, and copper, lower labor and vehicle costs, and use up to 50% less water,” they added.
LSCPA awarded $99.7K for nursing shortage
May 1, Lamar State College Port Arthur (LSCPA) announced it has been awarded $99,725 through the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s Nursing Shortage Reduction Program.
This grant supports efforts to grow and strengthen nursing education across Texas, with a focus on increasing student enrollment, retention, and graduation.
According to LSCPA, the funds will help the school continue preparing skilled, compassionate nurses who are ready to serve Southeast Texas and meet critical workforce needs.
Tvrz retires from Sonic Drive-In
Dan Tvrz retired after 49 years with Sonic Drive-In in Kirbyville.
Tvrz began his career in 1977 as an employee in Jasper and in 1979 became co-owner of the business with the late Bubba Ebarb.
Tvrz moved to the Sonic in Kirbyville three years ago after the Sonic in Jasper and Woodville sold to a Lufkin company and since that time has been working with his late partner’s son, Jason Ebarb.
Alliance EPC moving to Gilbert Building
Alliance Engineers & Project Consultants, LLC announced April 28 its headquarters will soon reside in the historic Gilbert Building in Beaumont — a landmark built by John N. Gilbert, a “man of vision, tenacity, and deep civic pride.”
“To share the same space once occupied by the titans of industry and commerce who helped shape Southeast Texas is both an honor and a responsibility — one we proudly embrace,” the company wrote on social media. “As we begin this next chapter, we are committed to carrying forward that legacy by helping engineer the future of our region through innovation, stewardship, and purposeful development. From refining and petrochemical projects to infrastructure and community revitalization, we hope our work inside these historic walls reflects the same spirit of progress, resilience, and ambition that defined those who came before us.”
According to the company, the Gilbert Building stands as a reminder that great cities are built by people willing to invest in their communities, preserve their history, and believe in what their future can become.
“At AllianceEPC, we are proud to be part of that continuing story,” the company wrote.
According to the Gilbert Building Partnership, the building is undergoing a major restoration.
Port Arthur EDC gets new CEO, logo
The Port Arthur Economic Development Corp. has a new head and revealed a new logo last month.
The Port Arthur City Council appointed Krystle Villarreal Muller as the sixth chief executive officer of the Port Arthur EDC. Muller is a longtime Port Arthur resident and has dedicated more than 17 years to serving the organization.
May 4, the EDC’s Board of Directors voted to adopt a new official logo as part of its ongoing rebranding efforts.
The EDC said the new look represents progress, purpose, and a clear vision for the future of Port Arthur.
“As we continue to strengthen how we present and position our city, this rebrand is one step forward in telling our story with clarity and consistency,” they added. “We are not just building for today or even tomorrow. We are building Port Arthur for the future. Every decision, every investment, and every initiative is rooted in long-term impact.”
Mall holds grand openings for new stores
Central Mall, 3100 FM 365 in Port Arthur, held grand opening celebrations for three new businesses on May 1.
Central Seafood House’s grand opening was at noon and the first 20 people in line got a free meal and the next 20 received 10% off their meals.
At 1 p.m., was the grand opening for Lavish Balloon Co. with a drawing for a free party rental, a custom balloon garland or a $50 gift card.
V & L Cuban Jewelry celebrated a 2 p.m. grand opening with a $1,000 drawing.
LSCO honors faculty and staff
Lamar State College Orange (LSCO) faculty and staff gathered recently at the Annual Employee Awards Luncheon.
The award recipients were:
• Teaching Excellence Award 2026: Hallie Gates
• Professional Excellence Award 2026: Skylar Slaughter-Murphy
• President’s Staff Award for Customer Service 2026: Nathan Campos
• President’s Staff Award for Campus & Community Service 2026: Crystal Compton
• President’s Staff Extra Mile Award 2026: Matthew Guidry
• Distance Education Award 2026: Charlie Davis
• Favorite Staff Member Award 2026: Brandy Mobbs
• Favorite Faculty Member Award 2026: Suzanne Baker
ExxonMobil presents $24K check to HJISD
May 18, ExxonMobil presented Hardin-Jefferson ISD with a $24,000 check that will support learning opportunities for students at both Hardin-Jefferson Junior High and Hardin-Jefferson High School.
According to the district, the funds will strengthen student engagement and productivity within Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses while also expanding opportunities in our STEM programs. The grant will help provide instructional materials, hands-on equipment and technology resources that allow students to actively apply concepts in science, engineering and technical fields.
Within the CTE programs, students will benefit from tools, materials and project-based learning experiences that encourage them to design, build and solve real-world challenges.
The grant will also enhance STEM initiatives through inquiry-based learning, experimentation and engineering design challenges that encourage students to analyze data, test solutions and apply scientific concepts in meaningful ways.
National EMS Academy offering hybrid EMT course
July 13, the National EMS Academy’s Beaumont campus is opening the doors for the next group for its upcoming 12-week hybrid EMT course.
The course will be offered at a discounted tuition of $600 and provides a direct path for those ready to begin a career in emergency medicine.
“An EMT is often the first face a person sees in an emergency, and that carries a tremendous amount of weight,” said TJ Dronet, director of National EMS Academy. “Our goal is to ensure our graduates aren’t just certified; they’re capable and confident.”
The National EMS Academy serves as the primary training ground for Acadian Ambulance, providing a direct bridge from student to professional. In 12 weeks, students are prepared to sit for the National Registry (NREMT) exam and become eligible for immediate employment opportunities.
Acadian Ambulance offers tuition reimbursement programs for those looking to build their career without a financial burden. This certification serves as the essential foundation for those looking to advance into Paramedic, Flight Paramedic, or leadership roles within the industry.
To qualify for the training, applicants need a high school diploma or GED and a valid driver’s license. While students can begin their training at age 17, you must be at least 18 to sit for the National Registry exam. Registration is now open.
For more information, visit www.BecomeAMedic.com.
