By Mary Ekene

When you have people that make history in your city, it is not only a great honor but a great celebration.

Essie Bellfield was the first African- American mayor in the City of Orange, Texas.  

Larry Spears was the first African- American male mayor in the City of Orange, Texas.  

When you see citizens of Orange, Texas making history by being “firsts”, not only is it incredible but inspiring.  

We have another person that made history in the City of Orange, Texas who refuses to ever move out of this city.  He was the first African- American to be a foreman at any chemical plant in the Golden Triangle.

He has volunteered at this program for the past 25 years and has been an inspiration to many.  His name is Daniel Champine.

“I refuse to leave Orange, Texas,” Champine expressed to me after speaking with him.  

His daughter Traci Champine is proud of all of her father’s accomplishments.

“I am so proud of my father, he just celebrated his 85th birthday and it was a joy to see his family and friends there,” Traci Champine said to me.

On March 12, 2019, Traci Champine along with her family and friends honored her father for his 85th birthday and everything he contributed in the community.  

Mayor Larry Spears was there to speak on his accomplishments and in a Dallas Cowboy themed program, Daniel Champine was celebrated.  

Daniel Champine, the City of Orange honors you and may you continue to inspire the people around you.

Mary Ekene Activist for Bring Positivity Back/ Founder and Owner of Livol