Good morning, Lake Charles.

Local leaders made headlines as Detective Steffan Weekly received the 2025 Law Enforcement Officer Distinguished Service Award from the Louisiana Bankers Association—EXIT Bayou Realty, CSE Federal Credit Union and Lake Charles Memorial Health System announced new team members, Travis Lavergne graduated from the FBI National Academy, and Visit Lake Charles unveiled its 2025 ROSE Award winners. The Women’s Center at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital also earned the Louisiana Birth Ready Designation as community partners continue shaping local business and public service.

Families have reported bullying in local schools and experts say parents should fill out the parish bullying report form on the website—contacting administrators if needed—to ensure a proper investigation.

Calcasieu School Board officials advised that if a timely response is not received, concerns should be escalated to the superintendent.

McNeese State University saw its largest enrollment increase in 22 years as fall enrollment rose by 5% to 6,556—up from 6,243 last year—with a record first-time freshman class and full dorms.

The university will open a new student union at the end of 2025—offering study areas, a meeting room and a cafeteria—to help it reach its goal of becoming the top school in the region.

Gov. Landry attended the groundbreaking for a $17B LNG project near Sulphur on September 15th—project officials say the investment will bring new energy jobs and boost local growth in coming months.

Over the weekend, Southwest Louisiana physical therapists learned a new noninvasive spinal electrical stimulation technique — designed to help children with cerebral palsy and spina bifida — in a training led by Florida therapist Gerti Motavalli.

Local therapists reported early improvements in movement and sensation, noting benefits for patients like a 9-year-old who had a severe stroke at birth.

Jake Strong earned the Southland Conference Offensive Player of the Week on Monday after throwing for two touchdowns and running for two scores in a 42—41 loss to Weber State at Navarre Stadium last Saturday.

The McNeese quarterback finished with 278 passing yards and 45 rushing yards as he helped his team come back from a 21 point deficit before a last-second play ended their rally.

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.