Good morning, Lake Charles.

Former Calcasieu Parish Sheriff and Ward Three City Marshal Wayne McElveen died Monday morning at 87.

Funeral services are set for 2 p.m. Dec. 13 at Trinity Baptist Church — visitation is scheduled for Dec. 12.

Several free holiday events for families are set in town and nearby areas.

Today, Central and DeQuincy Libraries host crafting sessions while upcoming train rides, art workshops, and concerts offer festive fun.

Imperial Calcasieu Museum will host the free Holiday Art Under the Oak open-air market under the 375-year-old Sallier Oak on Dec.

14 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m., offering families ornament-making, a display featuring a local jazz legend, and a visit from Santa.

Green Acres residents are raising concerns about water quality and rising utility bills.

They plan to seek clear answers from local water providers and officials as questions about potential issues continue to grow.

SWLA Center for Health Services hosted a free community baby shower at Christian Baptist Church in Lake Charles to offer expectant mothers essential supplies and health education (an initiative addressing Louisiana’s high maternal mortality rate).

During the holiday season, Walmart and Aldi in Lake Charles have recalled shredded cheese for possible metal-contamination and shoppers are urged to check their fridges and return any affected product for a refund.

This holiday season, Lake Charles residents can explore five Louisiana-themed gift ideas including a custom crawfish boil set, themed home decor, Cajun food basket, outdoor adventure gear, and local event tickets to enjoy unique local culture.

Iowa Yellow Jackets advance to the Superdome after a 28-21 win over Belle Chasse last Friday at Jesse E.

Cady Memorial Stadium. The team will face North DeSoto at noon on Friday in New Orleans while coach Tommy Johns readies a Pigskin Preview radio show (10% proceeds benefit the program).

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.