Good morning, Lake Charles.

Lake Arthur will host its third annual Freedom Fest on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.—the free event will offer contests, a parade beginning at 6 p.m., live music, and a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. local officials say the celebration revives an old-fashioned Fourth of July spirit that unites the community.

HAM radio operators from the Southwest Louisiana Amateur Repeater Club will take part in ARRL Field Day at Pinederosa Park in Westlake from 9 AM Saturday to 6 PM Sunday, June 28 and 29 — the public is invited to learn about amateur radio and its role in emergency communications.

CVS Health pushed back on state lawsuits from Attorney General Liz Murrill and Governor Jeff Landry by calling the claims of deceptive practices and anticompetitive behavior without merit—its statement said the text campaign to alert Louisiana customers about a potential pharmacy access disruption used no state health benefits data. The company said it will defend its integrated model that combines pharmacy services and health benefits as the legal challenge proceeds.

A fiery crash on June 17 led to the arrest of 59-year-old James McKeehan Jr.—an escaped inmate from Phelps Correctional Center who crashed his car into a tree on Lake Street, prompting charges that include his fourth DWI offense, vehicular negligent injury, and escape.

McNeese State University announced the spring semester Honor Roll on June 26, listing undergraduates who earned a 3.0 average while carrying 12 or more credit hours & meeting full-time requirements.

The Energy Department issued five LNG export permits in Gulf states, including Louisiana, to reverse Biden-era restrictions—supporting projects like Commonwealth LNG in Cameron Parish and Port Arthur LNG Phase II that are expected to boost exports and American jobs.

The permits are set to strengthen energy security and increase LNG supply globally.

Gov. Jeff Landry struck a provision from the state budget plan that would have provided weight-loss drug coverage to state employees and public school teachers, saying the $1,000 a month cost per person could lead to unsustainable long-term expenses—affecting 223,000 policyholders. The change applied to the 2025-26 cycle and mirrors similar reversals in other states.

Lake Charles will welcome its new leader, Marshall J.

Simien Jr., as he is sworn in at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, June 30 at Sudduth Coliseum in the Lake Charles Event Center, marking him as the city's 30th mayor + his four-year term begins on July 1 after he defeated former mayor Nic Hunter in a run-off election. Four new council members will be sworn in alongside him + the public is invited to attend with guests encouraged to arrive early since seating is first-come, first-served.

Lake Charles Symphony Summer Pops

7-10 p.m. — Lake Charles Event Center — Check website for price — Experience a night of classical music with the Lake Charles Symphony Summer Pops.

Louisiana Rural Water Association Conference

9 a.m.-6 p.m. — Lake Charles Event Center — Check Official Website — Engage in networking and educational sessions for water utility professionals.

Lake Charles Food Distribution

2-4 p.m. — 1225 2nd St, Lake Charles — Free entry — Register and bring your ID and proof of address to receive essential food supplies for families.

Cajun Music and Food Festival

All day — Burton Complex — Admission varies — Celebrate the rich culture of Cajun music and food at this annual festival.

Marshland Festival

July 25-26 — Lake Charles Event Center — Ticket info TBA — Experience the vibrant culture of the Marshland Festival with a weekend of entertainment and community spirit.

Hawaiian Luau Bingo Event

2-5 p.m. — Chasers Bar and Grill — Fundraising event — Enjoy a fun-filled afternoon of bingo while supporting the Krewe of Illusions and keeping Mardi Gras traditions alive.