Donor funds to enhance Beaumont education
The H.E. and Kate Dishman Charitable Foundation, through Hancock Whitney, granted Phalen Leadership Academies, which operates an elementary and middle school in Beaumont ISD, $10,000 to support critical academic interventions for scholars.
“Research shows the transfer of learning takes place at a higher rate for our scholars when delivered face-to-face,” PLA admin released in a statement after the grant award. “It’s clear many scholars are in critical need of learning intervention to not only catch up, but excel academically. Our scholars deserve a high quality education regardless of socioeconomic status and our desire is for each one to be on track for graduation and college or career. PLA’s strategic academic interventions will deliver customized, in person instruction at no expense to the families.”
Recently, PLA was invited to present as the Education Spotlight at the annual “Harvest of Giving” event sponsored by Hancock Whitney. Representatives accepting the honor included BISD’s Mariellen Walsh, Juanda Bryant, Stephanie Hayes, Loretta Mack and Stacey Lewis Jr.
Annual Winter Wonderland Pageant set
The third annual Winter Wonderland Pageant is Sunday, Jan. 29, in the Deweyville High School Cafeteria, 171 State Highway 12 in West Orange.
The following age groups will compete in the pageant: 0-11 months, 2-3 years, 4-5 years, 6-7 years, 8-10 years, 11-13 years, and 14 years and up.
The $100 registration fee includes the photogenic contest with three entry photos minimum (5x7). Deadline to register is Monday, Jan. 23, at 12 noon.
Sweetheart/Fan Favorite will be awarded crown along with all seven queens and seven first alternates.
For more information, email tkroutter@deweyvilleisd.com.
Lights of yesteryear
Experience Christmas in a new and old way at Gladys City. Through Dec. 31, except for Monday, the Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown, 5550 Jimmy Simmons Blvd. in Beaumont on the campus of Lamar University, will have Christmas light displays to view and take pictures. Regular admission or 5 non-perishable Food items can get you in to see the sights.
First Day Hikes
Park lovers everywhere are invited to help Texas State Parks begin celebrating 100 years Jan. 1 with a First Day Hike. Almost every Texas State Park will host ranger-guided and self-guided walks, bike rides, paddling trips and polar plunges in honor of the national initiative aimed at getting people outdoors.
“Texas State Parks is excited to kick off our 100-year celebration with the most First Day Hikes we’ve ever offered,” said Rodney Franklin, director of Texas State Parks. “Whether you’re visiting for the first time, or you’ve visited many times before, more than 80 parks across Texas are ready to help you start 2023 off on the right foot. We can’t wait to share all the exciting things happening in Texas State Parks this upcoming year with you. We invite everyone to make some memories in nature with friends and family!”
The events scheduled throughout New Year’s Day are designed to help introduce people of all skill levels to the outdoors and make the experience “a walk in the park.” Last year, 4,440 visitors ushered in 2022 by hiking, biking and riding a total of 8,764 miles statewide. Find a list of this year’s First Day Hikes on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) calendar page.
Trails at Texas State Parks range in length and difficulty levels across the state. Some short, easy trails are perfect for family-friendly scenic strolls, while more strenuous ones can challenge experienced hikers. Trail maps for all Texas State Parks can be found on TPWD’s website, the recently redesigned official Texas State Park app and individual park webpages.
Anyone planning a trip to a Texas state park is strongly encouraged to reserve a day pass in advance since some parks are expected to reach their capacity limit. Reserve day passes online through the TPWD reservation website or by calling (512) 389-8900.
The First Day Hike at Village Creek State Park in Lumberton will commence at 9 a.m. Participants are advised to check in on arrival at the information station at the back parking lot to sign-in. After the hike, pick up an official First Day Hike sticker.
This 1-mile hike is considered easy. Options for long and more difficult hikes are available for you to do on your own. The duration of the hike is expected to take under 1.5 hours, depending on group pace and questions.
Dress for the weather; wear closed-toed shoes; and bring water.
Along with First Day Hikes, Texas State Parks will celebrate the Centennial with signature events at all 89 parks across Texas. For more information on the Centennial Celebration, including signature events, the history of Texas State Parks and how to make a day visit or overnight reservation, visit the 100 Years website at TexasStateParks.org/100years.
Creative Arts Contest now open for entries
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission, Texas System of Care, in collaboration with the Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health at the University of Texas at Austin, announced the return of the Texas Mental Health Creative Arts Contest in 2023. The contest will accept individual and group submissions through March 10, 2023.
The contest seeks to raise awareness of mental health experiences, challenge stigma, and provide an opportunity to express complex emotions through creative outlets.
For more information, including past winners, rules, and how to submit artwork, visit the Texas Mental Health Creative Arts Contest webpage at https://gallery.txsystemofcare.org/.