Good morning, Lake Charles.

In 2025, the Community Foundation SWLA launched the Just Imagine SWLA 50 Year Resilience Plan from a $2.5 million gift by Angela and David Filo — spurring the opening of the first phase of the Mid City Neighborhood Transformation project at Lake and 18th Streets.

Philanthropic efforts continue to support local causes through corporate, nonprofit, and individual giving.

Calcasieu Animal Services is at limited capacity, caring for 113 dogs and 53 cats as intakes remain high this season + shelter officials urge residents to adopt, foster, or support rescue groups to help manage the pet population.

Reporters looked back at 2025 by sharing favorite local stories, including lifelong friends bonding over music, a teen's inspiring marching band performance, circus-style acts for local events, nonprofit support for families, and daily storefront concerts near 3rd Ave. Market Basket.

Residents are invited by Lt. Gov. Nungesser and Louisiana State Parks to join First Day Hikes with *free* admission at sites like Grand Isle State Park and Fontainebleau State Park.

The program encourages locals to explore Louisiana’s natural and historic sites to kick off 2026.

St. Nicholas Center for Children finalized the purchase of Bank Street property from St. Louis Catholic High, enabling plans to build a new pediatric therapy center.

The sale (covering 7th to 9th Street) supports the center's expansion of services for children with autism and developmental delays.

Residents in LeBleu Settlement have dealt with yellow and brown water since before Christmas, which stained bathtubs and clothes, and Calcasieu Parish Waterworks District 8 is flushing the lines; affected residents are asked to call (337) 582-3064.

Lake Charles elected its first African American mayor in a May runoff when Marshall Simien Jr. unseated former mayor Nic Hunter (by fewer than 700 votes) and was sworn in in June.

His historic win marks a new chapter in local governance.

Landscaper Jett Champaign offers safety tips for taking down Christmas decorations now that the holiday is over, advising residents to wear proper gear (roof boots, hat and gloves) and use a buddy system to avoid tripping hazards on cold mornings in Lake Charles.

After a tough loss at Michigan, the Cowboys will rebound Friday night when they face Lamar on CBS Sports Network at Townsley Law Arena (the Southland Conference opener).

McNeese Athletics reviewed a full season of games and achievements in a year-in-review published Dec.

31, 2025 — the overview highlighted key moments and standout performances that excited local fans.

LSU baseball star returns to his hometown to visit a local baseball camp and inspire young athletes.

Camp organizers say the event is scheduled for later this week in Lake Charles and will offer skill-building sessions.

McNeese basketball fans can meet the men’s & women’s teams, get exclusive game ticket deals, enjoy live music by Doc Wilder & special food and drink offers from The Max in Westlake on Tuesday, Jan.

6 from 5 to 8 p.m.