PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS — The City of Port Arthur has officially proclaimed June 20, 2026, as “Gulf Awareness Day”, recognizing the importance of the Gulf Coast to Southeast Texas’ economy, recreation, heritage, and natural resources.
Port Arthur Mayor Charlotte M. Moses presented the proclamation to Chester Moore, founder of the Gulf Great White Shark Society, and Tom Neal, Director of the Museum of the Gulf Coast, during a special ceremony honoring efforts to promote marine education, conservation awareness, and appreciation of Gulf ecosystems.
The proclamation recognizes the vital role the Gulf Coast plays in the lives of Southeast Texans through commercial shrimping and crabbing, recreational fishing, boating, wildlife observation, and other outdoor activities. It also highlights the importance of local coastal resources such as Sabine Lake, Sea Rim State Park, and Pleasure Island.
The City further acknowledged the importance of conservation, research, and public education in sustaining the Gulf’s rich diversity of marine life. Among the areas recognized was the growing scientific understanding and public awareness of Gulf marine species, including great white sharks.
The proclamation specifically recognizes Moore’s contributions to marine awareness and conservation through journalism, public outreach, and his work as creator of the first documentary and author of the first book focused on great white sharks in the Gulf region. It also acknowledges the role of the Gulf Great White Shark Society in promoting public understanding of marine wildlife and responsible stewardship of Gulf ecosystems.
In addition, the proclamation recognizes the Museum of the Gulf Coast and its educational efforts to foster appreciation of the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
The museum’s June 20 family event-“Great White Sharks in the Gulf” offers free admission and activities designed to encourage youth and families to learn more about ocean and coastal environments. The event runs from 10-1.
“It is a tremendous honor to receive this recognition from the City of Port Arthur,” Moore said.
“As a lifelong resident of Southeast Texas, I am grateful to Mayor Moses and the City Council for recognizing the importance of Gulf conservation, marine education, recreational fishing, and the incredible wildlife that calls these waters home.”
Moore added that sharing the recognition with Neal and the Museum of the Gulf Coast reflects the importance of community partnerships in promoting conservation and education.
“The Museum of the Gulf Coast has done an outstanding job creating opportunities for people to connect with the history, culture, and natural resources of our region,” Moore said.
“I am honored to stand alongside Tom Neal in receiving this proclamation.”
Gulf Awareness Day encourages citizens to celebrate the Gulf Coast, explore local coastal resources, and support educational and conservation efforts that help protect the marine environment for future generations.
For Moore, the recognition marks a milestone in a journey that began with a childhood fascination with sharks and marine wildlife.
“If someone had told me as a kid that my journalistic work involving great white sharks would one day be recognized in an official city proclamation, I would have thought they were crazy,” Moore said.
“I am truly grateful and look forward to celebrating Gulf Awareness Day with everyone.”
Follow Chester Moore and Higher Calling Wildlife® on the following social media platforms
@gulfgreatwhitesharksociety on Instagram
@thechestermoore on Instagram
Higher Calling Wildlife on Facebook
Email Chester at chester@chestermoore.com.
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