Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 17th of June.
Good morning, Lafayette.
Bonefish Grill kicked off Tito's 'Tini Tuesday Tour on Tuesday, June 16, launching a summer-long fundraiser for Healing House that supports grief assistance for children.
Local leaders Al Hebert, Kim Thackston, and Tyler Reaux discussed the fundraiser plus its featured drink.
Christian Youth Theater Lafayette is offering week-long summer musical theater camps at Ascension Episcopal School for students ages 4 to 18, providing hands-on learning to build performance skills, self-confidence, and teamwork; reporter Al Hebert visited to capture what attendees are learning.
One Acadiana was awarded a $50,000 FAME Catalyst Grant to launch an advanced manufacturing workforce program that pairs students with local manufacturers and classes at South Louisiana Community College.
Details (including industry partnerships) will be shared at the ConnectEd Update on Aug. 27.
The National Hurricane Center warns that Tropical Storm Arthur may form today near the Texas Gulf Coast and bring heavy rain to parts of Louisiana.
Flash flood warnings remain active in several parishes as residents prepare for periods of intense rainfall.
Louisiana Representative John Illg said the new law banning organized balloon releases of 12 or more balloons went into effect June 1 — it aims to cut litter and protect wildlife, livestock and power lines with exemptions for accidental or indoor releases.
Lafayette Parish emergency officials advised residents to prepare for rising flooding by placing sandbags at all home entry points and storing them properly for reuse (this practice can help safeguard property during heavy rains).
The Lafayette Fire Department held its 112th Recruit Fire Academy on Monday with six new recruits filling vacancies from retirements.
Mayor-President Monique B. Boulet, CAO Rachel Godeaux, and Fire Chief Earl Borden Jr welcomed the recruits as they begin a 16-week course with graduation scheduled for Nov. 13.
Louisiana has banned the organized release of 12 or more balloons effective June 1 to curb litter, wildlife harm, and power outages.
Representative John Illg said the law allows exceptions for accidental releases, biodegradable balloons (and scientific uses).
The Louisiana DOTD explained that heavy rain sometimes causes flooding on Lafayette streets (such as on Ambassador Caffery Parkway) as drainage systems struggle to keep up in heavily developed areas.
Officials urge drivers to be cautious and keep safety barriers in place after rain.
SLEMCO awarded five grants of up to $10,000 each to local first responder agencies through its Operation Round Up program (customers selected the winners online), said Mary Laurent, communications coordinator.
The recipients were Arnaudville, Broussard, Duson, Judice and Mire Volunteer Fire Departments.
HUD administrator Ashlea Quinonez met with Northwest Louisiana stakeholders Tuesday morning to review housing costs affected by regulatory burdens and to discuss the Opportunity Zone Program, which has spurred over $100 billion in private investment; Louisiana will nominate 155 new zones starting July 1.
Roddie Romero and the Hub City All-Stars
7-11 p.m. — Blue Moon Saloon & Guest House — Tickets starting at $18.95 — Experience a night of alternative rock with Roddie Romero and his All-Stars.
Free Educational Estate Planning Seminar
4-5 p.m. — Lafayette Public Library - Main Library — Free entry — Learn the essentials of estate planning in a relaxed and informative setting.
Journey Concert
7:30–9 p.m. — Cajundome & Convention Center — Ticketed event — Experience the legendary rock band Journey live and relive their classic hits.
Stars & Stripes Festival Souled Out
Evening — Parc Sans Souci — Free entry — Enjoy a night filled with fireworks, live music, food, and family-friendly entertainment.
Alien Art Family Day
1-3 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — $30 per person — Unleash your creative side with this family-friendly art class designed for ages 6 and up.
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