Good morning, Lake Charles.

The US Postal Service asks residents to leave nonperishable food donations by their mailbox for its annual food drive (items will be collected on Saturday, May 9) and delivered to local pantries.

Local tech enthusiasts urge companies to add new emojis that capture Louisiana's Cajun traditions (including Mardi Gras, pig roast, crawfish, gumbo, and Whooping Crane) so residents can share their culture digitally more authentically.

Stevie B, Johnny O and Trinere will perform live at Coushatta Entertainment Center in the Coushatta Casino Resort in Kinder on Saturday, June 6, with doors opening at 7:00 p.m. and the show starting at 8:00 p.m., while tickets go on sale Friday, May 8 at 10:00 a.m. (the event revives classic freestyle music).

A legal corner piece explains that residents can choose between a notarial will or a handwritten will, though writing it themselves might lead to errors — if you suspect misuse of power of attorney, it should be rescinded after consulting a lawyer per Louisiana’s Civil Code.

On May 6, Lake Charles residents voiced concerns over a local developer's plan to possibly cut down a longstanding oak tree (a feature valued by many) in the area.

Hurricane Hunters arrived in Lake Charles on May 6 to advise residents on preparing for storm season.

City officials recommend reviewing emergency plans as the season nears.

NOAA held a press conference at Chennault on May 6 to stress the need for hurricane preparations for local residents; the agency urged everyone to review guidelines for securing homes and emergency supplies (as storm season nears).

The Louisiana Department of Health released its annual water grades yesterday at 6:18 p.m. to rate water quality for community systems state-wide + the report supports efforts to ensure safe drinking water.

Flavin Homes plans to build nine homes at the corner of W.

Claude and Ernest Street, while residents and SWLA Save The Tree fight to save an oak tree that aids in local drainage & flood control. City Council approved a 5% variance to increase build space.

The Cowgirls return to Lake Charles for a championship series against Lamar at Joe Miller Field at 6 p.m. Thursday — after winning 15 of their last 17 games, the team aims to capture the title they nearly secured last season.

McNeese State Cowboys will host third-place Northwestern State in the final series this weekend.

The team is two wins from the postseason and hopes to extend its season, with coach Justin Hill saying they control their destiny (after a weekend win tied them with the Lumberjacks).

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.

Swing for the Spectrum

8 AM – 2 PM — Contraband Bayou Golf Club — Fundraising event — Tee off to support safe housing for adults on the autism spectrum in Southwest Louisiana.

Masters Of Illusion

8-11 p.m. — Golden Nugget Lake Charles Hotel & Casino — All Ages — Experience an enchanting evening of magic and wonder with the Masters of Illusion.