Good morning, Lake Charles.

Today at Ole Habitz Bar—236 Hwy 171 in Moss Bluff—from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., community members will gather to support 5-year-old McKinli Bauer in her fight against DIPG with $10 jambalaya dinners, a pool tournament, silent auction, 50/50 raffle and T-shirt sales.

The event aims to provide crucial assistance and hope for her family during this challenging time.

After a four-day trial, a Sulphur business owner, Jenilea Pena, was found not guilty of stealing over $100,000 in federal funds provided by the CARES Act—she was accused of submitting fake documents to secure a small business loan without the majority owner's knowledge.

The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff's Office warned residents about a bonding scam and urged everyone to check any bonding offers carefully—officials said scammers use fake paperwork to trick people.

On Friday, July 11, Brooks Drost performed live at Luna Bar & Grill and a free movie night showed Moana 2 at the Ward 3 Rec; today, Lake Charles and surrounding areas host the Annual Coin Show in Sulphur starting at 9:00 a.m., Jamie Bergeron & the Kickin Cajuns performing at Jellystone RV Park at 7:00 p.m., a comedian at the Golden Nugget at 8:00 p.m., and Gumbeaux Gators baseball at Joe Miller Ball Park at 7:00 p.m. Upcoming festivals include the Coushatta Crossroads Festival on July 19 in Kinder and the Marshland Festival at the Lake Charles Event Center from July 25 to 26.

The SW Louisiana nightlife calendar offers a range of events this week at venues in Lake Charles and nearby areas—highlighting Malbec and Magic at Bodega Wine Dive Friday from 7 to 9 p.m. and DJ sets at Cajun Wharf Bar & Grill on Fridays and Saturdays, along with concerts, art exhibits, and outdoor movie nights scheduled at various local spots.

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.