BEAUMONT — The Jefferson County Commissioners’ Court on Monday recognized the county drug court’s work.

The court, which has been active since 2005, has a success rate of 66% without recidivism. That number is higher than the national average.

The commissioners also recognized that the mental health court and veteran’s court also treat drug abuse. The family drug court aims to reduce the rate of moms who are on drugs while pregnant.

 

Elderly Abuse Awareness

The commissioners also heard from representatives for Elderly Abuse Awareness Month.

“The abuse of elderly in domestic and institutional settings is a widespread problem,” Jefferson County Judge Jeff Branick said, while reading a proclamation. “Elder abuse is grossly underreported, because elders who are being abused find it difficult to tell anyone, ashamed and, sometimes, afraid. Elder abuse happens to both men and women of all income levels and all cultural groups, whether they are in good health or incapacitated in some way or another.”

Branick said the court encourages all citizens to work together to reduce abuse.

There will be an awareness walk at the Best Years Center at 150 Magnolia St. in Beaumont on Wednesday.

The event affords citizens the opportunity to learn signs of abuse and how to report suspected abuse.

 

Travel, tourism

This week marks National Travel and Tourism Week. Precinct 2 Commissioner Brent Weaver said tourism has a significant economic impact on the country.

“Travel to and within the United States provides significant economic benefits to the nation generating $2.4 trillion in economic output in 2017,” he said. “Travel is among the largest private sector employers in the country.”

The commissioners encouraged citizens to get out and see some of the local attractions, especially with summer break around the corner.