Good morning, Lafayette.

A big-box Office Depot store will close later this year after its lease ends in October, and Planet Fitness has received a permit to convert the space at 1879 W.

Pinhook Road into a new health club — the construction is valued at $1.5 million.

Drivers in Lafayette pay $3.99 per gallon at a Shell station near Lafayette Regional Airport, a rate that is over $1 higher than last year's cost (previously $2.74 per gallon) as fuel prices continue to rise amid international tensions.

WalletHub's study ranked Louisiana as the second worst state for jobs in 2026—placing it 49th for job market strength and noting low median incomes and brief work hours.

The findings highlighted the challenges job seekers faced amid economic uncertainty.

The LEED Center will unveil the REDII Works FabLab at 1 p.m. Friday as the university’s Louisiana Entrepreneurship & Economic Development Center hosts a ribbon cutting and open house where guests can tour the makerspace and see equipment demonstrations.

The free event supports local entrepreneurs, students and small businesses.

Acadian Ambulance named paramedic Chris Rogers (with 10 years of service) and EMT Megan Wiley as Southwest Louisiana finalists for Medic and EMT of the Year on April 28.

Winners will be announced May 19 in Lafayette.

Miles Perret Cancer Services opened a new center at 110 Capital Drive in Lafayette in late March that expands free cancer support with three private family rooms and a children’s area (designed like home).

The nonprofit will host a media day today to display its new services for Acadiana families.

The CDC paused rabies and other infectious disease testing on March 30 for a routine lab quality review, and Louisiana state labs continue monitoring rabies through the Department of Health & LSU Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory.

Officials remind pet owners that vaccination remains required for cats and dogs.

Following yesterday's NFL Draft, UL's Jaden Dugger was drafted in the fifth round by the San Francisco 49ers.

Other Cajuns including offensive lineman Jax Harrington and defensive lineman Jordan Lawson were invited to mini-camp by the Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins, respectively.

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.

Candlelight: 90s Hip-Hop on Strings

6:00-7:15 p.m. — Petroleum Club of Lafayette — Get your tickets now for a unique take on 90s hip-hop music performed with strings in a magical atmosphere.