Good morning, Lake Charles.

A longtime Lake Charles restaurant owner passed away at 85 on Jul.

2, leaving a mark on a community that enjoyed his restaurant for decades.

KPLC and Rouses Markets gave away 750 American flags for the nation’s 250th anniversary on Wednesday morning at three Calcasieu Parish locations.

Some residents planned to donate their flags to veterans and local schools while worn flags were retired by the American Legion Post 1.

On Wednesday, residents, veterans, and community leaders gathered at Southwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery to mark America’s 250th anniversary with a ceremony featuring civic reflections and a keynote address by 12-year-old Charlie Daggett.

Guests also placed American flags at veterans' graves and visited a new Liberty Tree plaque.

A Pennsylvania trooper was fatally struck by a semi during a traffic stop on Wednesday, prompting Louisiana State Police to urge drivers to obey the move over law this Fourth of July weekend to avoid fines (safety on multi-lane roads is vital).

McNeese SEED Center is set to offer consultation services and host a small business growth roundtable to help local entrepreneurs.

More details on the time and location will be shared soon.

Earlier this summer, high school students joined a sheriff-led reality check where they wore drunk goggles, played connect four, and learned to change a tire and balance a check book.

Additional sessions are scheduled for July 9 and 16.

Local residents, landowners and business owners signed a letter on Thursday, July 2 to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in support of Venture Global’s Calcasieu Pass LNG export project near Monkey Island.

The letter highlighted that the project has generated local jobs, scholarships and community investments — reinforcing long-standing support following past recovery efforts.

The LHSAA Cheer and Dance State Championships will soon return to SWLA, where teams will compete in cheer and dance events.

Organizers expect a festive atmosphere that highlights regional talent.

Randy Rogers Concert

7:00 – 11:30 PM — Golden Nugget Lake Charles Hotel & Casino — Ticket info unavailable — Enjoy a night of country music with Randy Rogers and his band.

Atlanta Rhythm Section with Firefall and Orleans

1-2:30 p.m. — L'Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an unforgettable afternoon of classic rock with Atlanta Rhythm Section, Firefall, and Orleans.

Lake Charles Gumbeaux Gators vs. Sherman Shadow Cats

7-11 p.m. — Joe Miller Ballpark — Family-friendly event — Catch the excitement of summer baseball with the Gumbeaux Gators.

Lake Charles Gumbeaux Gators Game Night

7-11 p.m. — Joe Miller Ballpark — VIP packages available — Enjoy an exciting baseball matchup with premium experiences and entertainment.

Zoo Safari Art Experience

All day — Paint and Fire — Registration required — Explore zoo-themed art projects through clay, canvas, and more in this creative week-long event.

Jamey Johnson Concert

7:00 – 11:30 p.m. — Golden Nugget Lake Charles Hotel & Casino — Tickets available via Ticketmaster — Enjoy a night of live country music with Jamey Johnson.