Good morning, Lake Charles.

Lake Charles rededicated its 9/11 memorial on Wednesday morning as officials, first responders and community members gathered along the lakefront (upgrades included an expanded entryway, a new Ribbon of Souls mosaic and structural repairs) to honor those lost on Sept.

11.

Barry Thompson Sr.—the founder of KAJN 102.9 Radio—died Tuesday at 87; he launched the station in 1977 to share Christian programming with communities including Lake Charles and served as a Sunday school teacher at Northside Assembly in Crowley.

His family has set visiting hours Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 8:30 to 11 a.m., and he is survived by three children and nine grandchildren.

DJ Rhett & Couyons of Comedy will perform at Horseshoe Casino Lake Charles on November 1 for a one night only show of Cajun humor.

The group, known for its mix of stand-up & skits, will offer adult fans a night full of laughs.

Today, Kerry Onxley begins his 38th season as director at Westlake High School and Children’s Theatre Company and will launch weekly acting classes to teach basic acting techniques through November—students will mentor young performers by building sets and costumes for the upcoming 'Rapunzel' on April 25 and a self-written street performance on Oct. 30.

McNeese State University was declared a Purple Heart University to honor its legacy of military sacrifice (the announcement came on September 11 at 9:15 p.m.).

McNeese State University will host two Preview Days this fall for high school students and their families, held at Bulber Auditorium on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on September 27 and November 15 (providing campus tours, conversations with faculty and student leaders, and a 20% discount at the bookstore).

Yesterday, Barbe High School went into lockdown after an anonymous tip said a student had a weapon, and police, state troopers, and other officers checked the school and found no threat.

The search for who made the call is still on.

Pastel Katrina cottages were built with nearly $75 million in federal funds after the storm to help victims, but high costs and building problems meant many were not used.

Out of 461 cottages built — only 361 had residents — and officials say the project did not work as planned.

McNeese cheerleaders spend several hours each week perfecting their game day routines—practicing three times after class for two hours with extra stunt sessions when needed—ahead of the football game tomorrow as they perform the traditional Joli Blon to honor a legacy that began in 1970.

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.

The Rock Orchestra by Candlelight

8:00 – 9:30 p.m. — Rosa Hart Theatre — Ticket price unknown — Experience a spellbinding 90-minute spectacle of iconic rock music performed in a breathtaking candlelit setting.

VIP Autumn Market and Show and Shine

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — The Villages of Imperial Pointe — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant vendor market with food trucks and a showcase of impressive vehicles at the Second Annual VIP Autumn Market.

Lions vs. Cowboys Football Showdown

6-9 p.m. — McNeese State University Football Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Catch the exciting home game between the McNeese Cowboys and Southeastern Louisiana Lions!

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.

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.

Voices of Wailing Women Called to Pray

4-8 p.m. — Lake Charles Event Center — Free entry — A powerful gathering for women to unite in prayer and spiritual support.