Good morning, Lake Charles.

Gov. Jeff Landry’s car insurance bill passed the House 68-34, giving the insurance commissioner the power to reject large rate hikes—an effort aimed at curbing high premiums.

Critics argue the move could hurt the market and the Senate is set to review the measure on May 13.

In April, controversial comments by U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F.

Kennedy fueled concern as two Lake Charles men with autism—Royce Fontenot and Alex Andrepont—lived together in a house provided by Autism Services of Southwest Louisiana, and executive director Missy Griffin said an autism diagnosis does not lower a person’s value while noting their strides in daily living and work.

Freshman Gwinn Hall hit a two-run home run in the bottom of the seventh that gave McNeese a 3-1 win over Incarnate Word—sending the Cowgirls to a best-of-three championship series against Southeastern starting Thursday in Lake Charles.

In Sulphur, No. 1 Sam Houston’s softball team won its first state championship since 2015 on May 4 after sophomore Taelyn Droddy hit a go-ahead liner in the bottom of the sixth to score the winning run + the team tied at 2-2 before the hit.

Coach Beth Domingue said the win capped a 28-game win streak + title game MVP Kailyn Mire made a key defensive play in the top of the seventh.

On April 28, Poke Nation aired a discussion featuring Associate AD Matthew Bonnette, Jim Gazzolo, Softball Head Coach James Landreneau, and infielder Reese Reyna that focused on the team’s bid to make history by winning four straight Southland Conference Regular Season Championships—highlighting an ambitious milestone in local sports.

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.

Wellness on the Water Celebration

8-11 a.m. — Golden Nugget Lake Charles Hotel & Casino — Free entry — Experience an immersive celebration of movement, wellness, and community.

Gumbeaux Gators Home Opener vs. River Monsters

7 p.m. — Joe Miller Ballpark — Thrilling minor league baseball action as the Gumbeaux Gators take on the River Monsters.