McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana, conferred degrees on 675 graduates during two ceremonies for the university’s 166th commencement Friday, May 22, in McNeese’s Townsley Law Arena.

Cistern KJZT St. Elizabeth Society No. 20 met on Flay Day, June 14, to raise new American and Texas flags at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in Cistern. After reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the U.S. and to Texas, the group robustly sang the Star-Spangled Banner. Grilled hot dogs, sausage wraps, and sweet treats were enjoyed by all. A meeting followed to present graduating senior, Danielle Vinklarek with a $500 scholarship by President Betty Danner (pictured above, left). The society also planned the upcoming nursing home birthday party, Father’s Day treats, and the District V Social planned for July 12 at Robert’s Steakhouse. Vinklarek has been an active member working the church picnic hamburger stand, and other parish projects. Pictured above, right, Charles Vinklarek observes after taking down worn flags, while Patrick Vinklarek raises the new flags.

Maddi Mach of La Grange has been named to the University of Arkansas Dean’s List for the 2026 spring semester. Mach joins a distinguished group of students recognized for outstanding academic achievement by earning a grade-point average of 3.753.99 during the semester while completing at least 12 credit hours required for graduation.

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The Landa Family Education Foundation congratulates the Clark Scholarship recipient from the class of 2026, Jamison Bennett. The Landa Family Education Foundation is pleased to partner with the Stanzel Family Foundation in administering the Clark Scholarship.

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God’s Embrace Ministries joyfully celebrates the completion of Year One of its Spiritual Directors Institute, a three-year formation program designed to prepare faithful Catholics to accompany others in the spiritual life through the ministry of spiritual direction.