Good morning, Lake Charles.

Good Shepherd Episcopal Church will host its annual Used Book Sale at the EDS gym at 715 Kirkman from Friday, March 21 to Sunday, March 23 with hours of 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday—volunteers will stock overflowing tables of books, LPs, DVDs and CDs while proceeds benefit local nonprofits.

On March 14, 2025, Calcasieu Correctional Center booked 20 people charged with drug possession, contempt of court, immigration detainers and theft from Lake Charles, Sulphur and other areas — further court actions are scheduled.

Today, the MLK Community Center was filled with music, dancing, vendors and a reflective poem during the Black Heritage Festival.

Community leaders said the event unites generations — they plan to extend the celebration this weekend and hold an even larger festival in 2026.

A new Louisiana law hides many details of executions—such as the names and roles of staff and suppliers—while the public can see that nitrogen gas will be used at Angola between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. The law protects sensitive information and limits what is shared about the execution process.

Early voting for the municipal primary election on March 29 begins today and runs from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. until March 22 except Sunday at four sites, including the Parish Courthouse in Lake Charles.

Voters must request absentee ballots by March 25 and return them by March 28 — key steps for those who will be out on Election Day.

Judge Shelly Dick halted Louisiana's plan to execute death row inmate Jessie Hoffman Jr. on March 18 using nitrogen gas as Gov. Jeff Landry, AG Liz Murrill, and lawmakers disagree with her ruling—while the state prepares to appeal and the Fifth Circuit later allowed plans to resume the execution next week.

After a few days of celebration, McNeese players returned to work Saturday following their Southland Conference title win as they prepare for the NCAA Tournament with selection details set to be revealed Sunday evening — local fans will gather at the Legacy Center at 4 p.m. for a free watch party.

Hayes Carll Live at Southlake Theater

Hayes Carll will perform live at Southlake Theater in Lake Charles, showcasing his unique blend of storytelling and country music.

Suds & Buds Spring Festival

Suds & Buds is a spring festival in Lake Charles featuring local vendors and supporting the Reins of Hope therapeutic riding program.

Frank Foster Live Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. | Golden Nugget Lake Charles Hotel & Casino | Tickets available via UNATION | Enjoy an evening of live music with Frank Foster in a vibrant casino setting.

Virtual Tour of Senior Living

9 AM - 7 PM | Tower Oaks Apartments | Free entry | Explore the best senior living experiences with award-winning care and activities.

CeCe Winans Concert

7-9 p.m. — Glad Tidings Church — Tickets available — Experience an inspiring live performance by the renowned gospel artist CeCe Winans.

Dru Hill Concert

7-11 p.m. — Golden Nugget Lake Charles Hotel & Casino — Ticket prices vary — Experience the captivating R&B vibes of the legendary group Dru Hill.

CYPHACON 2025

5-9 p.m. — Lake Charles Event Center — Admission fee applicable — Celebrate the fun and creativity at the 13th annual CYPHACON event filled with excitement and entertainment.

SWLA's Annual Yoga Fest

11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Drew Park — Admission details not specified — Celebrate movement, mindfulness, and community at Lake Area's largest yoga fest.

Bunny at the Barn Egg Hunt

8-10 p.m. — Eastern Dr, Lake Charles, LA — $10 per Child, $5 per Adult — Enjoy an evening of egg hunting with prizes, food, and guided pet play.