The Adult Protective Services 14th Annual Walk-A-Thon takes place Friday, June 5, at the Lakeside Center, 150 Magnolia Street.

 

This free and family-friendly event brings attention to the serious issues facing senior citizens and adults with disabilities in Southeast Texas—abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

 

Year after year, more residents, organizations, and supporters step up to promote awareness, health, and advocacy in the community.

 

Participants will enjoy fitness activities, make connections with neighbors, and join a collective effort to protect vulnerable adults.

 

If you care for an older relative, friend, or neighbor, showing up is an important way to support dignity and safety for everyone.

Beaumont buzzes this week with local events for every age and interest.

 

Wednesday night, The Logon Cafe hosts Open Mic at 8 p.m., welcoming musicians and performers to 3805 Calder Ave for a lively, creative start to the week.

 

On Friday, try your hand at Mahjong at Sertinos Cafe, 5657 Eastex Fwy, with a free beginner class at 5:30 p.m.—no experience needed.

 

Adopt a new friend at Beaumont Animal Care’s Dog Days of Summer event (1884 Pine St.), running through Saturday, with all pet adoption fees just $20.

 

Saturday features Texas Free Fishing Day at Collier’s Ferry Recreation Park—no fishing license required—plus the Beaumont Farmers Market from 8 to 11 a.m., and evening Karaoke at The Logon Cafe.

 

On Sunday at 4 p.m., create a pet portrait at the Paint Your Pet Workshop, 229 Dowlen Road.

 

From June 8-10, Aesthetically Yours offers a free Junior Esthetics Camp for girls ages 8–12—covering mental health and self-care.

Sixteen months ago, a pioneering group of students stepped into the unknown at Lamar Institute of Technology's brand-new accelerated nursing program in Beaumont.  

With no established track record and a faculty learning alongside the students, there was uncertainty at every turn.  

Class president Angel Swallow Lewis described the experience as lacking both structure and reassurance, yet it fostered perseverance and adaptability.  

This determination paid off last week, when the program’s inaugural cohort received their pins—a cherished tradition marking both achievement and a new beginning in nursing careers.  

Lewis has already accepted a role in the trauma department at Elizabeth Hospital, set to begin in June, even before formal graduation.  

Beaumont’s initiative grew a crucial program from scratch, supplying a region in dire need of healthcare professionals.  

This inaugural class represents hope for Southeast Texas, helping the community care for itself in the midst of a nursing shortage.

Thursday, May 28

 

Karaoke Thursday with DJ Avery lights up Struggle Street Brewing Co. from 6-9 p.m.

 

Grab a mic at 2140 Calder Ave. and enjoy local beer and great food.

 

All voices are welcome, whether it’s your first tune or you’re a regular.

 

Friday, May 29

 

Plant and Seed Swap blooms at Main Downtown Library, 801 Pearl St., from 4-5 p.m.

 

Drop off your extras and discover something new—open to all, free of charge.

 

Later, Fa Sho Customs brings live music and good vibes to Struggle Street Brewing Co., 6-9 p.m.

 

All rides welcome, from motorcycles to trucks.

 

Enjoy the classic Southeast Texas mix of cold beer, music, and good company.

 

Saturday, May 30

 

Webbie performs live at Pour09 Bar and Rooftop, 9 p.m., 6165 Muela Creek Drive.

 

Tickets available on Eventbrite.

 

Laugh it up with Comedy Night: Crux Crawford at Southeast Texas Stages, 8 p.m., 4155 Laurel Ave.

 

Advance tickets are $20, $30 at the door.

 

Every Saturday

 

Visit Beaumont Farmers Market, 8-11 a.m., for local vendors, fresh food, and friendly faces. Start your weekend here.

Beaumont Police Department is now offering free self-defense classes for women, led by experienced female officers.

 

These sessions focus on basic self-defense techniques and situational awareness.

 

Classes last about three hours, from 6 to 9 p.m., and blend classroom learning with hands-on practice.

 

No previous experience is required—any woman interested in gaining skills and confidence can join.

 

Spots are limited, so those interested are encouraged to email Officer Haley Morrow at Haley.Morrow@BeaumontTexas.gov to secure a place or get on the waitlist for future dates.

 

This local resource could make a difference for women in our community—if you know someone who may benefit, be sure to share the news.

Beaumont celebrated a remarkable season of graduations this month, as 461 students from Beaumont United’s Class of 2026 crossed the stage at Neches Federal Credit Union Arena.

 

Together, they earned an impressive $7.1 million in scholarships and honors — a testament to hard work from students, teachers, families, and the entire community.

 

West Brook High School followed with over 550 new graduates, while Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Collegiate Academy sent students forward with both high school diplomas and associate degrees, thanks to its partnership with Lamar Institute of Technology.

 

Monsignor Kelly Catholic High School’s seniors also made waves, with valedictorian Kevin Do heading to UT Austin for Civil Engineering and 98 percent of graduates consistently enrolling in four-year universities.

 

Every local school, public or private, proves that Beaumont stands firmly behind its next generation, year after year.