Good morning, Lake Charles.

Local Kinder is hosting its Hometown Holiday celebration to unite Lake Charles residents in festive activities (details to be announced).

The event will bring neighbors together to enjoy the season and build community spirit.

The Literacy Council of SWLA is hosting its 9th annual 5K run today in Lake Charles to promote local literacy and healthy living (all community members are welcome).

Westlake held its annual Christmas Parade on Saturday, Dec.

6 with festive floats and community displays; a photo gallery (by Crystal Stevenson) captured the colorful moments from the event.

Historic photos show that Lake Charles suffered widespread damage from a hurricane in (1918) that caused many buildings to be ruined and knocked down communication lines.

Local records indicate that emergency officers and soldiers worked to help residents find safe shelter in the storm’s aftermath.

Scientists with the Wildlife and Fisheries department are collecting earbones from local anglers to accurately assess fish populations.

The small samples help determine the age and health of fish such as speckled trout and redfish (essential data for managing local fishing limits) and support ongoing fisheries research.

McNeese State Cowgirls won 63-42 Saturday in Tempe, Arizona at the Briann January Classic.

Kaili Chamberlin scored a career-high 17 points as the team advanced to 6-3 in nonconference play and will return home Friday to host East Texas A&M — its first home game since Nov. 22.

East Texas A&M Lions vs. McNeese State Cowgirls Basketball

3:30-6:30 a.m. — The Legacy Center — Ticket prices vary — Catch an exciting college basketball matchup live in Lake Charles.

LAR's Swamp Stomp Half Marathon & Fun Run

7-11 a.m. — Graywood Golf & Racquet Club — Registration fees apply — Test your endurance at the Swamp Stomp and enjoy a fun run experience.

Candlelight Christmas Concert

7-10 p.m. — Ray's Lounge, Lake Charles, LA — Free entry — Experience a magical evening of holiday music by candlelight.

Arenacross Racing Spectacle

7-8:30 p.m. — Lake Charles Event Center — Tickets required — Experience a thrilling blend of motocross racing and freestyle MX with lights and pyrotechnics.

World Ballet Company's The Nutcracker

6-7:30 p.m. — Rosa Hart Theatre — $50-$127 — Experience a magical evening with the beloved holiday classic, The Nutcracker, performed by the World Ballet Company.

Holiday Helping Hands

11 a.m. — Panorama Music House — Free entry — Celebrate Christmas by helping serve the Southwest Louisiana community with local restaurant support.

Winter Wonderland Skate Night

Winter Wonderland Skate Night — Evening — Lake Charles Event Center — Check local listings for entry fees — Celebrate the holiday season with festive skating fun at this special event.