Good morning, Lake Charles.

A local group—Valuing the Homeless Initiative and Transforming Lives—hosted an event providing free haircuts, hygiene kits and snacks to unhoused residents in Lake Charles while volunteers and local business leaders supported the effort.

The event restored dignity and fostered community hope with plans to continue accepting donations for future initiatives.

Dave Feemster said his service dog Izzy saved his cousin during an electrical home fire on July 1—Izzy woke his cousin as the flames started and Feemster is now mourning her loss while clearing what remains of his home.

The Calcasieu Parish School Board said it will pay for free breakfast and lunch next school year because the USDA will not cover all meal costs for students who do not qualify for free or reduced-price meals+ students have been getting free meals since hurricanes Laura and Delta.

Revitalized Health and Renaitre explain that collagen loss starts in our 20s and speeds up during menopause, causing thinner skin and wrinkles.

They recommend treatments—like collagen supplements, estrogen therapy, injectables, microneedling, and topicals—and healthy habits such as avoiding smoking and UV exposure to improve skin firmness.

Rural hospitals face Medicaid changes as new work requirements will begin in early 2027 and greater funding cuts are set for 2029, according to Jeff Reynolds of the Rural Hospital Coalition of Louisiana—who said that closures are unlikely given strong historical support and a $50 billion rural health fund. However, Reynolds warned that challenges may emerge when that funding runs out in 2030.

CHRISTUS Ochsner Lake Area has introduced a new protocol — an OB/GYN is available 24/7 to care for patients.

The update is set to improve emergency services and patient outcomes.

Christus Ochsner Lake Area has put in place a new OB/GYN rotation that keeps a board-certified doctor on site at all times — a change meant to quickly address emergencies like early deliveries and urgent C-sections.

Hospital officials say the protocol also supports safe vaginal births after cesareans.

Matt Viator returned to McNeese State as head coach after nine seasons away—he addressed the Southland Conference Media Day in San Antonio on Monday and brought back players Will Bressi and Masey Lewis.

He said he will work to revive the Cowboys by focusing on team details and rewarding loyal players amid a 70 percent rise in season ticket sales—marking the start of a renewed era for the program.

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.