Good morning, Lake Charles.

Wayne Simmons’ 11-year endowment fund supports three local charities by donating over $20,000 each to the Salvation Army, American Cancer Society, and Louisiana Baptist Children's Home, according to officials with the Community Foundation of Southwest Louisiana.

The Wayne Simmons Endowment Fund is entering its 11th year by continuing to support local community projects in Lake Charles (including education, arts, and health initiatives) with plans to announce more details soon.

Russell Hardy, known as Iowa's biggest football fan, was celebrated for his 50 years of unwavering support for the Yellow Jackets before he passed away Nov.

8 at age 65. His legacy was honored when the team reached its first state championship on Dec. 5 at the Superdome.

Cremer Volunteer Pastilles plans to invest $40 million to expand its facility in Lake Charles.

The expansion will boost local production and create new jobs (details pending).

LitMas will offer a festive bus tour through downtown stops such as All Put Together, Tres Jolie Boutique, Lake Street Liquor, and The Buzz Coffee and More later this month, and viewers can win seats via Gator 99.5 with ride access for 21+.

Country and gospel icon Randy Travis will perform at the Lake Charles Event Center’s Rosa Hart Theatre at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Apr.

18 during his More Life tour (featuring vocalist James Dupré and his original touring band). Travis will engage with fans alongside his wife despite not singing.

The Holders spotted a manatee near their porch in English Bayou on Saturday morning and captured video as the animal swam close to home, prompting LDWF to monitor sightings and plan a rescue if it remains in the area + officials advise boaters to slow down and keep waters clean.

Tyshawn Archie's game-winning jumper and Javohn Garcia's key block helped the Cowboys win 66-64 over Rhode Island Tuesday night in Kingston.

McNeese improved to 8-2 overall and will face East Texas A&M Friday at Townsley Law Arena.

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.