Good morning, Lafayette.

On Sunday night, firefighters responded to a kitchen fire at Shane’s Loaded Mac Bar at 1043 Johnston Street+ the building, which had closed at 8 p.m., suffered heavy fire and smoke damage as crews controlled the blaze in twenty minutes.

A new grocer, Desi Mart, will open at 2441 W.

Congress St. today with renovation plans, offering Indo-Pak items (including Halal meat and daily curries) after the former Bismillah Grocery closed last year.

Cleco agreed to be sold to Stonepeak Energy and Bernhard Capital Partners, with the new owners pledging to keep its headquarters in Pineville.

The sale requires approval from the Public Service Commission and has received Gov. Jeff Landry's support.

Two Louisiana groups won $20 million each from the Gulf Futures Challenge to repurpose abandoned oil platforms & build solar and battery-powered energy hubs at healthcare centers during storms.

The projects aim to boost community resilience and support environmental research.

Lovebug season is beginning and residents can repel swarms by mowing lawns, trimming vegetation, and using natural repellents—like peppermint oil or a vinegar spray—to reduce bugs near homes and vehicles.

Regular car washes may also help prevent paint damage from these insects.

Federal regulators approved the merger of M C Bank with DMMS Purchaser led by former IberiaBank executive Daryl Byrd.

The deal, set to close on or around May 1, will expand the bank’s reach into Atlanta and Baton Rouge markets — supporting local branches in Lafayette and Youngsville.

An appeals court denied Lafayette Parish School Board’s request to pause a trial on whether proper procedures were followed in the Comeaux case.

Judge Valerie Gotch-Garrett will hold the trial Wednesday to hear evidence from board members, employees and the public.

Lafayette paramedic Anastasia Bentley earned Medic of the Year honors by Acadian Health for leading a door to door outreach that helped a patient escape abuse — she will be formally recognized on May 19 in Lafayette.

Acadian Ambulance will honor its top medics at a celebration in Lafayette on May 19 — Paramedic Hailey Reviere, chosen as company-wide Paramedic of the Year, and EMT Bailey Begnaud will be recognized for exemplary service.

Acadian Ambulance launched a First Responder Autism Resource Kit on April 17 to help responders support individuals with autism during emergencies in Lafayette.

The kit was developed with partners including Aspire Behavioral Health, LS Rep Annie Spell, local law enforcement, and nonprofits — further training and follow-up will ensure ongoing support.

Seventeen Lafayette-area baseball and softball teams remain in the LHSAA playoffs after earlier rounds cut the field to 13 baseball teams and three softball teams; quarterfinal and semifinal games will decide which teams advance to the state championships.

Lafayette sports reporter Shannon Belt is asking readers to submit names for the best high school basketball players from Lafayette Parish and nearby areas via a form, email ([email protected]), or comment to help choose five top athletes for the upcoming national celebration of high school sports.

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.

Cajun Heartland State Fair 2026

6-9 p.m. — CAJUNDOME & Convention Center — Tickets required — Experience the vibrant atmosphere and entertainment of the Cajun Heartland State Fair in Lafayette.