Good morning, Lafayette.

Arc of Acadiana is hosting its annual bead drive during Mardi Gras festivities to collect old beads from community members.

Al Hebert spoke with Kayla Poullard to explain how residents can help make a difference this week.

A new study by Chris Corzo Injury Attorneys shows a 10-mile section of I-10 near Lafayette, between Louisiana Avenue and Grand Point Highway (in St. Martin Parish), recorded 14 fatal crashes with 15 deaths from 2019 to 2023 and ranks among the deadliest road segments statewide.

Blue Cross CEO Bryan Camerlinck will retire at the end of the year after 33 years with the company — he maintained local independence since taking over in May 2024 following a failed sale attempt.

Lafayette offers shoppers a wide variety of unique gift shops featuring handcrafted chocolates & personalized items that reflect local Acadiana culture.

Explore curated boutiques, thrift stores, and galleries to find one-of-a-kind gifts perfect for any occasion.

A WalletHub report released Feb.

10 found Louisiana ranked 48th nationally, making it the third least educated state. The study noted very low percentages of high school diploma holders, Associate's degree holders and Bachelor's degree holders.

Judice Middle School is currently receiving a major expansion with new steel beams helping remove temporary buildings as part of a $34 million upgrade by the Lafayette Parish School System.

J.B. Mouton Construction leads the project.

Lafayette High’s dance team (the Lionettes) won their first national title at the Union Nationals in Orlando on Feb.

10. The team outperformed 19 schools in the Small Senior Spirit Showdown, marking a historic achievement for the school.

Construction on the new Northeast Regional Library may begin early 2027 near the Holy Rosary Institute site, officials told the Lafayette Public Library Board.

Design work starts this spring and the 20,500 sqft facility is expected to open in 2028, improving access for a low-income community on Louisiana Avenue.

Fifth graders at J.W.

Faulk Elementary School took part in a Dress for Success event yesterday (Feb. 10), learning confidence, etiquette, and professionalism through donated attire. They later practiced proper dining manners at Bailey’s Restaurant in a community effort.

LPSS principals took part in a school safety tabletop exercise on Monday, Feb.

9 during in-service training — they reviewed lockdown, shelter-in-place, and visitor protocols to ensure clear safety measures on campus.

Parish Proud & Keep Lafayette Beautiful announced that Acadiana Waste Services will supply 700 garbage carts along Mardi Gras parade routes in Lafayette to manage waste during the celebrations.

Bead recycling bins have been deployed at locations from Feb. 10 through Feb. 27 to minimize litter and protect storm drains.

Louisiana softball showed strong hitting and resilience over the opening weekend at the Louisiana Classic with a 3-1 record.

The team led by Coach Alyson Habetz and standout freshmen will face Ole Miss at home at 1:30 p.m. CT today.

LSU women's basketball dropped one spot to No.6 in Tuesday's USA TODAY Coaches Poll after a close loss to No.4 Texas — a competitive game decided in the fourth quarter — and a commanding 33-point win over Auburn last Sunday.

Roux Fest Gumbo Cookoff

5-8 p.m. — Blackham Coliseum — Proceeds support local nonprofits — Experience a vibrant gumbo showdown blending tradition and innovation with live music.

The Hub Lafayette Runwell 5K Walk/Run

8 AM – 12 PM — Geaux Run by Fleet Feet — Registration fees apply — Enjoy a family-friendly 5K and Kids Fun Run in Lafayette.

SPE International Conference on Formation Damage Control

February 18-20 — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Lafayette — Check website for cost — A conference focusing on engineering challenges in formation damage control.

Chris Thomas King Concert

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Ticketed event — Experience the soulful sounds of Chris Thomas King, a significant figure in folk blues history.

Ragin' Cajuns All Girl Cheer Clinic

3:00–6:00 p.m. — EK Long Annex — Registration required — Elevate your cheer skills with hands-on training and recruitment opportunities led by experienced coaches.

Candlelight Concert: Coldplay vs. Imagine Dragons

6:00-6:59 p.m. — Petroleum Club of Lafayette — Tickets required — Experience a magical evening of live music featuring the hits of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons.

NoCap Live in Concert

9 p.m. — The District Event Center — No refunds — Experience an electrifying night with NoCap live in Lafayette.

Shadows Arts & Crafts Festival

9 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Shadows-on-the-Teche — $5 admission for adults — Browse original hand-crafted items and enjoy local food and drinks in a beautiful garden setting.