Celebrating Our Local Small Businesses

As a former small business owner and dentist, I know firsthand the grit, sacrifice, and heart it takes to open the doors each morning. Small businesses keep our communities strong, and this Small Business Saturday, I hit the road to celebrate a few of the incredible local entrepreneurs who make Southeast Texas feel like home.

I had the pleasure of stopping by The Crossing Coffee Shop and Easy Street Florist in Cleveland to visit with the new owners, Valerie and David Haney.

This longtime hometown favorite has always been a place to enjoy a great cup of coffee, grab a bite to eat, or take home one of their beautiful floral arrangements. I’m encouraged anytime I see hardworking small business owners investing in our community, and Valerie and David are carrying forward a cherished Cleveland tradition.

A favorite since 2002, JAX has spent more than two decades serving great meals. I also enjoyed visiting with Texas Ranger John Sullivan, who happened to be there for lunch, a reminder of how special our Southeast Texas neighbors truly are.

Proud to support the small businesses that keep Liberty County thriving.

I stopped by Good Grounds Coffee in Lumberton, conveniently just steps away from my Lumberton District Office,  and enjoyed another great cup of coffee and a warm welcome from baristas Dahlia and Avery.

If you’re nearby, stop in — you’ll be glad you did!

It was a pleasure visiting Belle Grace Salon in Beaumont for Small Business Saturday. I enjoyed meeting owner Kendra Jones and hearing firsthand about the opportunities and challenges she navigates daily.

Entrepreneurs like Kendra are the backbone of Southeast Texas, they create jobs, support families, and keep our communities vibrant. As your representative, I’ll continue fighting to ensure small businesses have the freedom and tools they need to thrive.

I also stopped by David Norton Tire in Woodville to visit with the team. For years, this family-owned shop has provided honest service, reliable workmanship, and the kind of customer care you only find at a true hometown business.

Shops like David Norton Tire keep East Texas moving, literally, and they embody the work ethic and community spirit that define our local small businesses. I’m proud to highlight this Woodville staple and grateful for their longstanding commitment to serving families across Tyler County.

From coffee shops to tire shops, salons to local eateries, our small businesses make Southeast Texas feel like home. I’m grateful for their hard work, their heart, and their commitment to our communities every single day.