The annual Taste of Beaumont (TOB), held on the second Monday of April, is one of BWNA’s largest gatherings of neighbors during the year, second only to the National Night Out Picnic in Wilshire Park the first Tuesday in August. TOB provides opportunities to connect with neighbors you may not have seen for a while, “welcome” newcomers to the neighborhood, and also enjoy tasty cuisine samples from local restaurants and other culinary businesses. Beaumont Middle School cafeteria serves as the venue for this special occasion on Monday, April 10, beginning at 6:30 pm. Providing top-notch musical entertainment for this festive event will be Cynthia Plank and her standout Beaumont Middle School jazz band.
Taste of Beaumont also provides a backdrop for the annual BWNA elections of officers and board members. Anyone living within the boundaries of the Beaumont-Wilshire neighborhood and/or who owns a business within those boundaries is eligible to cast advisory votes on BWNA motions and proposals as well as seek election to BWNA board positions. Every year half of the at-large board positions and two of four officer positions come up for reelection. And, as emphasized by Al Ellis in his Editor Notes column, this year’s elections are of special significance to BWNA, with three vacated positions in need of filling—two at-large positions and president, the most vital position of all. Thus, while Taste of Beaumont is the neighborhood’s not-to-miss culinary delight of the year, it also doubles as BWNA’s not-to-miss opportunity for rejuvenation in terms of leadership and direction.
BWNA’s mission of constantly looking at ways to improve the quality of life within Beaumont-Wilshire and its success as a focal point and common voice to city bureaus and City Council on key land use, public safety and health, and residential development issues affecting our neighborhood are dependent on new volunteers with unique skills and passions stepping forward to serve on the board. Residents are urged to consider giving of their time and talents to this important work. Come celebrate and dine with neighbors at TOB!