News

Beaumont doctor pleads guilty to sexual assault

Over noted objection by the victim of a Beaumont doctor’s sexual assault, Dr. Michael Wesley Holmes accepted a plea bargain deal giving deferred probation for admitted criminal acts that he perpetrated on a patient under his care in 2018.

Fire destroys Jefferson Co. home

A Jefferson County family home is a total loss after it was destroyed by fire on Sept. 13. The blaze occurred on Boyt Road near Cheek about 4 p.m. The homeowner reported she was able to get out of the home, salvaging only a wedding photo and family picture. Jefferson County ESD No.

Feds announce funding for SETX projects

Several local projects will receive part of the nearly $3 billion in climate-resilience funding as part of the Investing in America agenda.

Conservationists, TxDOT announce public meeting on Big Thicket protections

A coalition of local, state and national conservation groups including the National Parks Conservation Association, Big Thicket Association, Big Thicket Natural Heritage Trust,  Conservation Fund, Nature Conservancy, Big Thicket Biosphere Reserve and Texas Conservation Alliance announced a public...

LU connects students of today with workforce of tomorrow

Lamar University’s continued centennial celebration honored a century of leaders during the recent Southeast Texas Counselor Update.

Council records ‘no confidence’ in Vidor mayor

In a 4-2 vote taken at their Sept. 14 regular meeting, the Vidor City Coun- cil approved a resolution calling for a vote of no confidence for Mayor Misty Songe concerning the handling of the city manager, who is currently on forced administrative leave. Sept.

PA hosts party to celebrate ‘Cajun Capital of Texas’

During the 2023 Texas legislative session, a bipartisan collective representing the Texas House, Senate, and governor all came together and agreed on something Southeast Texans have long known to be true: Port Arthur is the Cajun Capital of Texas.

McFaddin-Ward announces fall events

The McFaddin-Ward House announced its Fall 2023 public programming lineup, which will include the return of the museum’s popular Lecture Series, as well as Music at the McFaddins’ outdoor live music events, and its annual Holiday Open House. Among upcoming events: • Sept.

Constable honored at conference

Pct. 2 Constable Christopher Bates won the 2023 Constable of the Year Award at the National Constables and Marshals Association 50th annual conference in Biloxi, Mississippi, recently. Bates was elected in 2012 and took office in 2013.

Local doctor appointed to state commission

Gov. Greg Abbott has reappointed Ray Callas, M.D., FASA, of Beaumont, to the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation for a term set to expire on Feb. 1, 2029. The commission oversees the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.