Good morning, Beaumont.

Traffic on Interstate 10 & U.S. 69 is light to moderate this evening in Beaumont, with congestion building near Marina Street and Pine Street on I-10 and light flow beginning at South 4th Street on U.S. 69, so drivers are advised to allow extra travel time.

Rescuers from Beaumont Animal Care freed Beyoncé, a domesticated fancy rat, Tuesday from a Chick-fil-A parking lot trap and the pet charmed shelter staff, leading to her swift adoption with seven interested applicants including one from out of town.

Two local non-profits help at-risk youth by offering classes, mentorship and parental support at the Minnie Rogers Juvenile Justice Center and by pairing kids with community volunteers (this National Mentoring Month) to build brighter futures.

A former troubled teen turned college student credits these programs with changing his life.

Little Mexico Café in Silsbee announced that Friday will be its final day of operation, ending its long run of serving authentic Mexican dishes that started during the pandemic.

The café has thrived on strong community support + loyal customers at 134 Pine St.

A documentary on the Melody Maids, an all-female performance troupe led by Eloise Milam, will premiere at Jefferson Theatre on Jan.

17 with screenings at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. — Terrell Museum will display memorabilia from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. the same day.

Lamar University has launched a new College of Nursing and Health Professions to combine health departments and meet the region’s growing need for skilled healthcare workers.

New programs will be added in the coming years to enhance on-campus training.

Beaumont residents interested in nature conservation will learn how to become certified Texas Master Naturalists when the Sabine Neches Chapter holds an introductory meeting on Jan.

22 at 6:30 p.m. at 700 North St.

Beaumont City Manager Kenneth Williams revealed at Tuesday’s council meeting that a gun buyback program, promoted by Jefferson County Precinct 6 Justice of the Peace Ransom 'Duce' Jones, is planned for Apr.

4 to reduce violent crime & awaits sponsorship due to state law restrictions.

Beaumont EMS upgrades their equipment with eight new LifePak 35 defibrillators from Stryker Medical under a lease lasting four years (valued at over $500K) that lets personnel share data instantly with hospital doctors to improve heart attack care.

Lamar University baseball announced Jace Hutchins as its new pitching coach for the 2026 season.

Hutchins (who worked with the Chicago Cubs and Texas A&M) will guide the Cardinals as they prepare for their season opener on February 13 at Vincent-Beck park.

Lamar University's 2026 football season starts on Aug.

29 in Beaumont with a playoff rematch against Abilene Christian following last season’s loss. The schedule features nonconference games on Sept. 5 and 12 plus nine Southland Conference matchups through November.

Beaumont Pardi Gras 2026

7-11:30 p.m. — Beaumont Civic Center — Charity event — Celebrate Mardi Gras while supporting Southeast Texas Circle of Hope's fundraising efforts.

2026 Economic Forecast Luncheon

11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. — Holiday Inn & Suites Beaumont-Plaza — $750 for a table of 8 or $50 individual seat — Join Dr. M. Ray Perryman for insights into the economic landscape of 2026.

Classic Movie Night: Ghostbusters II

7-11 p.m. — Jefferson Theatre — Cost TBA — Enjoy a classic screening of Ghostbusters II at a beloved local venue.

Liverpool Legends Tribute Show

6-8 p.m. — Jefferson Theatre — Cost Info — Relive the magic of The Beatles with a captivating tribute performance by Liverpool Legends.