Good morning, Lafayette.

Yesterday, the Broussard Fire Department held a blood drive at the Albertson’s parking lot at 1210 Albertson Parkway in Broussard in partnership with the City of Broussard and Our Lady of Lourdes to support Duson Fire Department Assistant Chief Glenn Cormier, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer after 48 years of service. Blood donations helped defer his medical costs as his treatment continued—walk-ins were welcome with a valid ID and hydration.

David Joachain, 54, was killed in a shooting on Jennings Road in St. Landry Parish between Opelousas and Port Barre on June 11, and authorities arrested Jared Wells, 23, of Port Barre on charges of second-degree murder and failure to render aid.

Today, Lafayette is hosting its first-ever Coffee Festival, with Nathanael Johnson, CEO of Rêve Coffee, saying the long-awaited event will attract over 1,000 participants and more than a dozen vendors.

The festival runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and charges $10 admission.

On June 19, Lafayette City Hall will host opening ceremonies and flag-raising for the Juneteenth celebration — Riding the Wave of Freedom to Liberty — that marks 160 years of freedom for African Americans.

Local leaders stressed community involvement as additional events follow in Lafayette and nearby parishes, including a presentation on adjudicated properties on June 17 and a spoken word event at Heymann Park on June 19, while noting that many Black residents are leaving Louisiana for better opportunities.

The Lafayette Parish School System approved an $805 million budget for the upcoming fiscal year and raised first-year teacher salaries to $50,000—officials said staff involved in extracurricular activities will also get new pay with plans being finalized in the next few days.

The budget is the first after system-wide changes that included school closures and merges.

Residents in southern Lafayette Parish began cleanup after heavy rains caused flooding on Friday, June 13—roads in Youngsville near Bonin Road and parts of US 90 and Young Street in Broussard were closed as flash flooding occurred.

Heavy rains have led to a Flood Warning in parts of Acadiana including Lafayette, Iberia, St. Martin and Vermilion parishes with minor flooding on the Vermilion River until 1 p.m. CDT.

A Flood Watch remains through Saturday evening as more rain along the I-10 corridor could quickly flood low areas — residents are urged to avoid driving on flooded roads — and take caution.

Experts say nine poisonous plants in Louisiana can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation during outdoor activities.

Residents should learn to identify plants like poison hemlock, spotted water hemlock, and poison ivy—common risks that may affect summer work and play.

DAD GAMES 2025

1 p.m. — Dave and Buster's Lafayette — Ticket required — Compete in the ultimate arcade showdown with family-friendly fun and prizes.

Vermilionville Summer Camp for Kids (5-8)

8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. — Vermilionville Performance Center — Check for availability — Embrace a week of hands-on learning about Acadiana's unique culture for children aged 5-12.

Alyse Young Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — El Paso Mexican Grill — Free entry — Enjoy a night of live music with singer-songwriter Alyse Young in a vibrant setting.

Alyse Young Live at Sushi Mizu

6-10 p.m. — Sushi Mizu — No cover charge — Enjoy an evening of live music with singer-songwriter Alyse Young in a vibrant dining atmosphere.

Luke Bryan Live in Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — CAJUNDOME & Convention Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the country superstar Luke Bryan along with special guests in an exciting summer tour kickoff.

On-Site Tour at Brookdale Lafayette

9 a.m.-7 p.m. — Brookdale Lafayette — Free entry — Explore a family-oriented assisted living and memory care community in a beautiful setting.

Artist Talk with Lynda Frese

Time to be announced — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Free entry — Engage in a discussion with artist Lynda Frese about her extensive body of work and artistic journey.

Jill Butler’s Joyride Performance

Time TBA — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Ticket info available — Experience the innovative jazz compositions of Jill Butler combining soulful styles and familiar reimagined tunes.

Alyse Young Live at La Pizzeria

6-9 p.m. — La Pizzeria Lafayette — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of soulful tunes from local artist Alyse Young in a cozy atmosphere.

whimsy Group Art Exhibition Open Reception

10 p.m. — The Hallway at the Warehouse on Garfield — Free entry — Explore a group multimedia art exhibition that blends childlike wonder with surreal artistic expression.