Good morning, Lake Charles.

Louisiana State Police warned residents today that scam texts claiming an outstanding traffic ticket are not from Louisiana OMV (which does not send text messages) and urged deletion of such texts to prevent personal information theft.

On June 5, the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office reported multiple arrests including Justin Ray Brown for exploitation of the infirmed—identity theft and theft charges—and Jalen John Singleton for domestic abuse aggravated assault while other suspects faced charges from drug possession to resisting officers with bonds set up to $250,000.

Patrick Seth Greene—a teacher and coach at Sulphur High School—is facing eight attempted first-degree murder charges along with other charges after he allegedly stabbed a 6-year-old boy who has had two surgeries and remains in critical condition after a disturbance call in Leonville.

Sacred Threads: The Art of Ryann Sterling exhibit opens today at the Black Heritage Gallery with a public reception at 5:30 p.m.—the show features collage, mixed media, sculpting and photography that explore southern Black spirituality, femininity and personal memory—and will run through July 26 at the Historic City Hall Arts & Cultural Center.

Vinton Library will host a book-tasting event at 1601 Loree St.—attendees can enjoy flavored sodas, juices, and snacks while exploring new books from 4-5 p.m. Tuesday, June 10; the free event invites all adult readers.

Rouge et Blanc, the Lake Area’s wine and food festival, will mark its 20th year on October 11 at McNeese State University’s Quad—tickets go on sale June 15 at 6 a.m. Admission is $135 and guests are asked to wear western attire as the event offers over 200 wines and food from 20 local restaurants.

State officials said the new I-10 bridge project is in its design phase and that the team is finalizing plans while beginning right-of-way acquisition for several Lakeshore Drive properties that may need to relocate.

The $2.3 billion project will replace the older bridge and keep traffic open on the current I-10 during construction—environmental evaluations and permits are underway.

Jared Maze, a veteran who served in Iraq with the Army and National Guard, retired in 2022 and now leads Calcasieu Parish Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness.

He said his military experience helps him train his team for hurricane season—urging local residents to stay prepared after Hurricanes Laura and Delta.

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.

Wayne Toups and Zydecajun Concert

7-9 p.m. — Jellystone Park™ Lake Charles — $15 at the door — Experience an exciting evening of Zydeco music under the stars.