Daily
Lake Charles
Friday, April 17th, 2026
Good morning, Lake Charles. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 17th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The Southwest Louisiana Special Olympic Games are in progress today at McNeese University track in Lake Charles, where special needs athletes compete for awards and support. The opening ceremony started at 9:15 a.m. 7 KPLC
- ➤ Jason’s Deli marks its 50th anniversary with revived Caprese Panini, dill pickle club wrap, dill pickle pasta and a keeper cup. It offers 40% off catering for schools and churches — will select five teachers for a free catered meal with extra promos in November. 7 KPLC
- ➤ A new water lagoon and concert venue, Lucky Lagoon, will open soon behind Game2Life at 3311 Broad Street — hosting a grand opening with live music from Ashes Of Babylon on May 2. Gator 99.5
- ➤ Mayor Marshall Simien reopened Millennium Park on Thursday, unveiling a new turf system (replacing the older surface) that offers a safer play area for children and families. The project began in late March and shows the city’s commitment to better public spaces. The American Press
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Jason’s Deli’s celebrated its 50th anniversary by launching new menu items, special deals, and community programs yesterday at its Lake Charles location — marking a milestone that reflects its long-standing role in the community. 7 KPLC
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Country music singer Jamey Johnson will perform live in Lake Charles on Saturday, July 31 at the Golden Nugget Grand Event Center. Tickets (available via Ticketmaster or the venue's box office) go on sale Friday, April 17 at 10:00 a.m. Gator 99.5
- ➤ This Is Home Fest takes place this weekend in Lake Charles, featuring live music, great food, and family-friendly events. A Kids Zone (presented by West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital) offers a petting zoo, laser tag, and reading activities while local stages host blues, zydeco, and country tunes for all ages. Gator 99.5
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Eddie Lovely, an Army veteran who turned to music education, shared a message of hope and positivity on Thursday, Apr. 16 in Lake Charles (he credits his military background for his inspiring approach). 7 KPLC
- ➤ During Tuesday's meeting, Superintendent Jason VanMetre announced the board will discuss at a May 12 meeting adding a bond proposal to the Nov. 3 ballot that could fund improvements for Sulphur public school facilities (the exact bond amount is yet to be set). The American Press
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Louisiana lawmakers blocked a proposal to remove the meningitis vaccine requirement for students when the House Education Committee voted 8 & 4 on Rep. Beryl Amedee's measure. Health experts and several legislators supported keeping the mandate to protect public health. 7 KPLC
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ After winning the series against Houston Christian at Joe Miller Field, the Cowgirls will face SFA with a final home game today at 6 p.m. and a doubleheader Saturday (Senior Day) as they aim to finish the season strong. The American Press
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Dolly Run 5K/1K Run/Walk for Reading
1-3 p.m. — Downtown Lake Charles — Entry fee required — Enjoy a fun run while supporting literacy in the community.
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Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns vs. McNeese State Cowgirls Softball
6-7 p.m. — Cowgirl Diamond — Admission varies — Experience a thrilling rivalry matchup as the Cowgirls defend their home turf against UL Lafayette.
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UTRGV Vaqueros at McNeese State Cowboys Men's Baseball
6 p.m. — Joe Miller Ballpark — Check for ticket prices — Watch the UTRGV Vaqueros battle the McNeese State Cowboys in a crucial season finale.
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A Market Soirée at Le Bocage
10 AM – 5 PM — The Stables At LeBocage — Free entry — Celebrate spring with shopping, music, and pony rides in a beautiful Southern setting.
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UTRGV at McNeese Baseball Game
1 p.m. — Joe Miller Ballpark — Ticket prices vary — Catch the thrilling conclusion of McNeese's regular season with significant postseason implications at this home game against UTRGV.
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Jolly Roger and Pirates Alley Book Signing
Time not specified — Riverside Park Complex — Book purchase required — Thomas Leveque discusses his novels and signs copies, sharing mysteries and adventures from Southern Louisiana.
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Yacht Rock at the Beach with Yachtley Crew
1-2:30 p.m. — L'Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles — Ticket required — Enjoy the smooth sounds of Yachtley Crew as they bring Yacht Rock to life at the beach.
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Wellness On The Water 5K
8 AM – 2 PM — Lake Charles Civic Center — Registration info available — Perfect for beginners and seasoned runners alike to enjoy a scenic race on the water.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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Reveal the authorAbout Daily Lake Charles
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