Good morning, Lafayette.

During a fishing trip at Lake Martin in St. Martin Parish, local angler Mike Castille captured a massive alligator on video making mating calls, noting its head looked like driftwood until close inspection revealed its true size + the encounter showcased unusual wildlife behavior.

Acadian Ambulance launched a new autism resource kit for nonverbal patients on Friday, Apr.

17 in Lafayette after a crash involving a 14-year-old autistic teen highlighted communication challenges. The kit (featuring a picture communication board and educational video series) is now available in English, Spanish and Vietnamese.

Over the weekend, LSU baseball was swept at home as Texas A&M won the final game (5-2) at Alex Box Stadium.

Coach Jay Johnson cited ongoing defensive lapses and a weak batting lineup, noting that improvements are needed to shore up postseason hopes.

The Daily Advertiser invites local voters to choose an Athlete of the Week based on high school performances from April 13-19.

Email nominations (with stats and photos) are accepted until 9 a.m. Friday for baseball, softball, track and flag football players.

2026 Annual Session of the Louisiana Dental Hygienists' Association

7 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. — City Club at River Ranch — Registration required — Enhance your skills with engaging sessions and networking opportunities for dental professionals.

Festival After Party with Pirates and Bards

8 PM – 2 AM — Artmosphere — Check for ticket info — A night of banjo twang, sea shanties, and street-singin’ chaos awaits.

Lafayette Utility Coordination Diggers Night Out

5:45-8 p.m. — River Oaks Catering — Free entry — Network with utility professionals at a fun evening focused on damage prevention and socializing.

Acadiana Go Red for Women Luncheon

11 AM – 2 PM — Le Pavillon at Parc Lafayette — Ticket details not provided — Celebrate women's heart health with the American Heart Association's annual event featuring expert talks and community awareness.

Kappa Derby Day Party

3-9 p.m. — Calvary Creek — Fundraiser event — Celebrate the Derby with style while supporting community initiatives.

2026 LEDA Job Fair

9 AM – 1 PM — CAJUNDOME & Convention Center — Free entry — Connect with top local employers for job opportunities at Acadiana's largest job recruitment event.

Louisiana Music Museum's Rock the Block Kickoff Party

5-8 p.m. — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Free entry — Celebrate local music and culture at Lafayette's vibrant street party featuring live performances and local cuisine.