Good morning, Beaumont.

The Port Cities Rescue Mission in Port Arthur is providing shelter services with 30+ beds and essential supplies as freezing weather is expected this weekend.

Director Patricia Henderson urges anyone vulnerable to the cold to seek refuge after a homeless man died outside, emphasizing the need for community compassion.

St. Martin de Porres Catholic Mission is hosting a Mardi Gras festival today in Cheek at 7467 Boyt Road, featuring a parade that starts at 1 p.m. (with early registration at Cheek Park), live music at 3 p.m., free gumbo, and family activities through sundown.

BB's Tex-Orleans will open a 3,700 sqft location at 2325 Calder Avenue this spring.

The new restaurant offers Cajun-Texan dishes, a patio with seating and a children's play area — a nod to the chain’s Golden Triangle roots.

A 17-year-old homeschooled student from Buna transformed a vacant floor at the local library into the Mind Works STEM Lab for his Eagle Scout project, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for today at 10 a.m.

Lamar University now ranks first among Texas public universities with the lowest average student loan debt, thanks to strong scholarship and aid programs—more than 90 percent of full-time students receive aid and nearly half graduate with no debt.

Officials say early financial planning has helped ease the financial burden for graduates.

Candlelight: Valentine’s Day Special

8:30-9:30 p.m. — 434 Fannin — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical evening of romantic music by candlelight performed by a string quartet.

Mardi Gras Jeeps Parade

1 AM — Alice Keith Park — Free entry — Celebrate Mardi Gras with a colorful jeep parade through the family-friendly neighborhood.

Lecture on Texas Citrus Industry

6:30 p.m. — The McFaddin-Ward House Historic Museum — Free entry — Explore the fascinating history of Texas' citrus industry at this informative lecture.

NRF 'Capes & Crowns' 5K Run

2:30-5 p.m. — 3930 Babe Zaharias Dr, Beaumont, TX — Fundraising race — Participate in this chip-timed run supporting local scholarships for the community.

SOAR Family Day Celebration

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. — The McFaddin-Ward House Historic Museum — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant butterfly display and family-friendly activities in the lovely gardens.