Good morning, Lake Charles.

The American Red Cross of Louisiana and Women Ignited will go door-to-door in University Park on May 17 to install free smoke alarms and help families create escape plans during the Sound the Alarm campaign — volunteers will work from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

A Jennings man, Wayne Anthony Wyble, 32, missed his attempted murder trial on Monday for charges from a 2022 drive-by shooting that left a local man paralyzed — Judge Steve Gunnell issued a bench warrant for his immediate arrest, and Wyble will be held without bond upon capture.

At McNeese Farm, students learn practical beekeeping in a program that has run for almost ten years and shows how bees help our environment.

Biology student Olivia Sexton studies bees that bite mites (she shares her work at academic conferences to support sustainable practices).

Recent high school graduates in Lake Charles can enroll in a 12-week EMT training program run by the National EMS Academy and South Louisiana Community College—orientations begin May 20—21 and classes start June 2 with registration open across campuses, including a local session.

The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office held a memorial ceremony today during National Law Enforcement Week to honor five fallen deputies, including Deputy Billy McIntosh who was fatally shot nearly 28 years ago.

Family members shared personal remembrances and pledged to keep the legacy of their service alive.

The House Appropriations Committee advanced a $49.4 billion state budget on May 13 that funded $2,000 teacher stipends for next year and closed a nearly $200 million shortfall without raising taxes—using cuts, delayed spending, and redirected funds from state agencies.

Lawmakers blocked state vehicle purchases and imposed a hiring freeze to preserve education and healthcare, and the bill moved to the Senate Finance Committee for further review.

A House committee worked on a Medicaid bill Tuesday that could remove coverage for 500,000 Louisianans and force the state to pay more as it proposes work requirements and more frequent income checks – health leaders say the final impact on Medicaid enrollments in our state remains unclear. The bill aims to lower federal match rates and may cut costs by reducing Medicaid rolls, a change that could leave 13.7 million low-income Americans without coverage by 2034.

Today Sulphur hosts the 11th Louisiana High School Athletic Association Baseball Tournament at McMurry Park at 300 Hazel Street where 28 teams begin competing at 8 a.m., including local teams such as DeQuincy, Welsh, Hicks, Pitkin and Sam Houston.

Under a new playoff format, select semifinal games were held on May 13 while championship games in Class C, Class B and Division IV will be played today + best-of-three matchups are scheduled from Thursday through Saturday.

McNeese coach Bill Armstrong announced Tuesday the signing of Australian player Peitok Machar, a 6 feet 10 inches tall and 210 pound athlete with junior college experience who can guard multiple positions.

Armstrong also signed Yanis Ndjonga from Baylor and said the team has two open roster spots and expects to add a combo guard who can shoot—boosting its depth.

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.

Cajun Cowboy Cluster of Dog Shows

8 AM — Lake Charles Event Center — Cost Varies — Experience the excitement of dog shows brought to you by local kennel clubs in a festive atmosphere.

T-Gator Triathlon

7-11 a.m. — Sam Houston Jones State Park — Registration fees vary — Experience the thrill of the beloved T-Gator Triathlon with options for both individuals and relay teams.

Movie and a Craft

9:30-10:30 a.m. — Prien Lake Mall — Family-friendly event — Enjoy a morning of crafting and movie magic together.

Lake Charles Food Distribution

2-4 p.m. — 1225 2nd Street — Free food access — Support the local community with essential food distribution services.