Hearts for the Arts
Beau Reve’s gauzy Moroccan theme and tempting bites put both sweethearts and lovers in a Valentine mood Sunday at Hearts for the Arts.
Recognition honors given to Texas Artists Museum and Dr. Keith Cockrell were two more Port Arthur ties to this annual Southeast Texas Arts Council reception.
Beau Reve’s waterside charm drew guests in with owner Becky Bellard’s recounting of the home’s journey from Beaumont, over the waterways to its Port Arthur address. An array of lovingly-displayed foods from mini muffalettas and crunchy chicken wings to pineapple tidbits and heart-shaped chocolates kept guests in view of a silent auction with items area artists donated.
Nadine Kebodeaux accepted the heart-shaped award for Texas Artists Museum. The museum’s Concept Gallery, featuring new displays and receptions every three months earned the honor for promising new programs in the arts and humanities.
Dr. Keith Cockrell accepted honors for his longtime work in area theater. As director of theater at Lamar State College-Port Arthur, he’s known for inspiring thousands of students and directing the annual summer musical with “lavish and inspired productions.”
“The growth of the theater department under his direction was a major factor in the decision to construct the beautiful Linda and Sam Monroe Performing Arts center on campus,” the honor reads.
For more on all the honorees, visit www.setxac.org.

Fat Tuesday = Taste of the Triangle
The “usual suspects” still delight at Taste of the Triangle. It’s how the Golden Triangle does Fat Tuesday now.
Jason’s Deli, Moncla’s (please have white chocolate bread pudding!) and Texas Coffee Company will be in the house. Some “new” places you may have yet to try are on the list, such as J Wilson’s, Datmac, Chaba, Amelia Farms and Lupe Tortilla. Bettie Jean’s Homestyle Cooking, run by a French High School classmate of mine, is also on the long list of participants.
Surely you’ve heard of this tasting celebration. This will be the 34th Annual Taste of the Triangle, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28, at the Beaumont Civic Center. Tickets are available exclusively at the Beaumont Civic Center Box Office for $25 a person.
Some Mid-County names that are currently on the lineup include Neches Brewing Company, Southeast Texas Medical Center and Tequila’s.
Craft beer, wine and music from blues artist Mike Zito rounds out the evening. Monica Roberts, Sabine Area Restaurant Association board member and Taste Committee Chairperson, said this year’s savory and sweet treats will include custom-made flash frozen ice cream.
Did you know the state legislature named Seaport Coffee the official coffee of Texas? Try some. Word is SARA’s 2017 honoree Carlo Busceme III, along with family members Joseph Fertitta and Donald Fertitta are receiving accolades for their valuable contributions to both SARA and the community.
The event raises funds for scholarships for area students who represent
the future of the food service industry and for charitable organizations. Other funds go to purchase livestock at the Southeast Texas State Fair. The meat is processed and distributed to local non-profits who feed people, such as Girls Haven, Boys Haven and the Southeast Texas Food Bank.

darraghcastillo@icloud.com