Good morning, Lake Charles.

The owners of Meaux’s Seafood in Holly Beach have kept the business running strong for five years after Hurricane Laura — showing resilience as the community recovers.

They continue to serve loyal customers and uphold a trusted local tradition.

The Southeastern Rodeo Association will hold the annual Lake Charles Sera Black Rodeo at the Burton Complex on Saturday with doors opening at 6 p.m. and showtime at 7:30 p.m. The family-friendly event—celebrating its 13th anniversary—features steer wrestling, bronc riding, calf roping, ladies’ barrel racing, team roping, junior events and bull riding to honor the legacy of African American cowboys.

Hundreds of tourism professionals have gathered in Lake Charles this week for the Louisiana Travel Association’s Conference at the Golden Nugget—Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser will deliver the keynote as experts share ideas to boost the state’s tourism economy.

Organizers also announced plans for a Rose Parade float themed 'Teamwork' and discussed a proposal to add an inspection fee on imported seafood.

The Calcasieu Parish School Board and the city of Lake Charles are partnering to offer free sign language classes this fall for community members who want to learn or improve their skills.

Beginner sessions will be held weekly on Tuesdays from 5-6 p.m. (at Henry Heights Community Center) and advanced classes on the same schedule at CPSB Pupil Appraisal Center, with no registration required and children needing an adult.

Starting Sept. 4, drivers in Westlake will lose direct access to I-10 Westbound from Sampson Street — they must use marked detours planned for the I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge replacement project — and city officials say the change will cut wait times at nearby train crossings.

Heath Schroyer began rebuilding McNeese’s athletic facilities after Hurricane Laura left them in ruins five years ago — transforming a wrecked program into one that secured a historic 10-year, $5 million naming rights deal with a local car dealer — and turning it into a conference benchmark. The Cowboys will unveil a new $32 million press box with 26 luxury suites Saturday night as they open their college football season.

McNeese State will host Louisiana Christian at Navarre Stadium Saturday night—seeking their first season opener win since spring 2020.

Returning coach Matt Viator may become the all-time winningest coach if the Cowboys secure the win—adding extra motivation as many players start their college careers.

Roots & Boots 90’s Electric Throwdown

7-9:30 p.m. — L'Auberge Casino Resort Lake Charles — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an unforgettable night with iconic 90's country stars Aaron Tippin, Sammy Kershaw, and Collin Raye.

Cristina Mariani Stand-Up Comedy Show

8 p.m. — Library Riot — $30 reserved seating, $20 general — Enjoy an evening of laughs with Cristina Mariani, featured on Kill Tony and Comedy Mothership.

Weber State vs. McNeese State Football Game

6 p.m. — McNeese State University Football Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Watch the McNeese Cowboys take on Weber State in an exciting home game showdown.

Homecoming 2025: Out of This World

7-10:30 p.m. — White Oak Park — Tickets $22 pre-order, $30 at the door — A fun-filled Homecoming dance for homeschooled teens with music by DJ Trey and refreshments.

Desi Banks: The Elevation Tour

7:00 – 8:30 p.m. — Rosa Hart Theatre — Last-minute tickets available — Enjoy a night of comedy with Desi Banks in Lake Charles.

McNeese Cowboy Club 5k Gallop Fun Run / Walk & Kids 1k Round Up

5k Fun Run & Walk for all ages organized by the McNeese Track and Field / XC Program presented by the McNeese Cowboy Club. Proceeds raised go directly back to program to help offset funding for Travel, Meals, Equipment, Insurance, Supplies for the Year. Your support is appreciated.