Good morning, Lake Charles.

Starting Monday, Rob Bocage will join the 7 News Sunrise team in Lake Charles at 5 a.m. as John Bridges passes the torch—Bocage, a Louisiana native from New Orleans with rich experience in radio and sports—brings his journalism background from Oklahoma City to lead morning news.

On Saturday, the third annual Chicken Fest will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at West Cal Arena and Events Center at 401 Arena Road in Sulphur — the event offers food, music, games, contests and unique chicken pageants.

Profits from the festival will support community programs — providing aid to those in need.

Cameron LNG in Hackberry announced its 1,000th cargo of liquefied natural gas—a major milestone reached six years after its first cargo on May 31.

The facility uses three liquefaction trains to export LNG to 37 countries and highlights the team’s focus on safety and strong performance.

The Rouge et Blanc Wine and Food Festival will celebrate its 20th anniversary on Saturday, October 11 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.—attendees are encouraged to don western wear, enjoy wines from about 200 varieties and food from over 20 local restaurants while supporting McNeese State University’s arts and humanities programs. Tickets start at $135 and are available online now.

Students and parents toured Sowela Technical Community College on Tuesday for Career Exploration Day, splitting into four groups to explore five campus buildings and learn about nursing, culinary arts, criminal justice, aviation & vehicle maintenance programs.

Organizers designed the event as hands-on learning for 120 attendees aged 5 to 18 and expect it to become an annual tradition.

Today, first responders from Westlake Fire Department and Cajun Dustoff are practicing water rescues on the Calcasieu River to boost disaster readiness—employing emergency vehicles and helicopters to integrate aviation-based response.

They had conducted similar cold load and hoisting exercises in June to further prepare for emergencies.

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.