Good morning, Lake Charles.

McNeese State University reported a 1.6% rise in fall 2026 enrollment on Tuesday, Sept.

15, with student numbers reaching 6,663 and continuing enrollment up by 5.4%. University officials credited the gains to support services and retention programs that help students thrive.

The McNeese Autism Program will move into a new facility funded by alumni donations next to Navarre Cowboy Stadium in early 2028 while continuing to offer assessments and interventions for children with severe behavioral challenges.

Commercial fishers, guides and seafood processors sued Venture Global on July 30—alleging that dredging for a new LNG terminal at Calcasieu Lake caused a sediment spill that killed millions of oysters and reduced catches of finfish and shrimp, while they seek damages for lost revenue.

New Census data shows Louisiana had a 19.7% poverty rate over 2023 to 2025 with nearly 910,000 residents living below the poverty line, while the national rate was 10.2% in 2025.

Median household income increased 2.6% during the period.

Candidates for mayor in Iowa will debate tonight at the Iowa Knights of Columbus Hall on U.S. 90 (doors open at 5:30 p.m. and debate starts at 6) as Mayor Neal Watkins, and challengers Paul 'Hounddog' Hesse and Brian 'Shakey' Shexnayder participate.

Registered dietitian Karen Corbin said that science shows your gut feeling may be real because tiny microbes create chemicals that guide your mood, and she advises swapping white bread for whole grain bread (to boost fiber) to keep your microbiome healthy.

A Louisiana appellate court sided with 32 student-athletes seeking a fifth year of college sports eligibility, following a district court ruling reached Monday night — a decision that may impact team rosters at local colleges.