Good morning, Lake Charles.

The new College Oaks Community Center playground opened Tuesday, July 8th—giving local families a safe place for children to play—and officials said its design is part of ongoing efforts to boost community recreation.

Water’s Edge Gathering in Lake Charles will extend its cooling center hours starting July 14 to help local residents cope with temperatures over 90 degrees.

The church will be open Monday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.—offering a cool space, meals and a safe break from the heat.

Police arrested a second convicted felon on July 8 in connection with a Fenton shooting, and officials are investigating his link to earlier violent incidents.

LEAP tests for grades 3-8 show math scores rising to 33% and science scores up to 29% while English mastery stayed at 43%.

High school students reached a 35% overall mastery rate with gains in English I and Algebra and drops in English II, Biology and U.S. History — new social studies and civics test results will be released later.

An independent study found that the Louisiana menhaden industry caught far less redfish than feared, with about 22,000 redfish killed in 2024—below the 5% bycatch limit allowed by law.

State Rep. Joe Orgeron praised the study for setting a baseline while anglers and conservationists still urge further steps to protect redfish.

The Allen Parish Police Jury voted 7—1 yesterday to suspend enforcement of the new ordinance on carbon capture projects after ExxonMobil sued over the local permitting requirements, and they will hold a public hearing at 6 p.m. on Aug.

4 to discuss a potential removal of the law. Police Jury President Tony Hebert said the move aims to protect parish funds from costly legal battles that could risk essential services.

The Louisiana Department of Education is starting a review of K-12 physical education standards to improve physical literacy and student success.

Educators, parents, and community members can apply by July 31 (committee selections will be sent to BESE in October, with revised standards expected in 2026).

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.