Good morning, Lake Charles.

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library gives free books to children from birth to age 5, with 3,480 kids in Southwest Louisiana receiving them monthly while others wait.

The United Way will hold its inaugural Dolly Run tomorrow from 8 a.m. to noon in downtown Lake Charles—offering live music, a mini fair and a book donation station to support local classroom libraries.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Louisiana celebrated National Volunteer Month by spotlighting Bigs who logged over 2,500 hours this year—while the organization still seeks to match 84 Littles from six local parishes.

Fifth annual This Is Home Fest, a free celebration of community and culture, is scheduled for Saturday, April 26 at the Lake Charles Event Center—featuring major musical acts like Eric Gales and Grace Bowers while offering local food vendors, scholarships, and a Kids Zone with a petting zoo—designed to bring families together for an outdoor day of music and fun.

At Sam Houston High School on April 24, the Barbe girls track team ended Lafayette's nine-season win streak by edging them 192-186 and winning their first district championship since 2014 using strong field events - likewise, the boys team clinched the title with 158 points.

Kye Hanks led St. Louis Catholic to win the Division II, District 2 title on April 23 at Lake Charles Country Club by shooting a nine-under 63 that earned him individual medalist honors while his team shot 300 to beat Teurlings Catholic by 16 strokes—he said his strong putting helped the round as the team now prepares for regionals at Oak Wing in Alexandria.

Dolly Run 5K for Reading

1:00 PM – 4:59 PM — 815 Ryan St, Lake Charles, LA — Registration required — Run or walk a picturesque 3.1-mile course in downtown Lake Charles to promote literacy.

Rollin’ on the River Car Show

9 AM – 2 PM — Sam Houston Jones State Park — Free entry — Experience a showcase of cars, trucks, and motorcycles while enjoying food trucks and exciting raffles.

Riley Green Concert

7-11 p.m. — Lake Charles Event Center — From $118+ — Enjoy a night of country music with Riley Green at a local venue.

Princess Day

— Time Range — Almosta Ranch LLC — $40 entry — Experience a magical day filled with princess-themed fun for all ages.

Parent Walk Event

5-7 p.m. — Lake Charles Event Center — Free entry — A FUN-filled evening of walking, connection, and healthy snacks for parents and children.