Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 18th of June.
Good morning, Lafayette.
Families and foodies will gather at Moncus Park on Friday, June 27 for National Food Truck Day with over nine food trucks, yard games, inflatables, face painting and a sunset concert by the New Natives Brass Band from 6 to 8 p.m. Parking is offered for $10 (at 2913 Johnston Street) with funds helping to support park maintenance and programming.
Yesterday in Vermilion Parish, the Second Harvest Food Bank ran its Makin' Groceries Mobile Market at the Abbeville Library from 9 to 10 a.m. and at the Delcambre Library from 11 a.m. until noon to offer healthy food while New Iberia hosted a hiring event at the American Job Center from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. In Lafayette, the Southwest Louisiana Juneteenth Committee held a free housing workshop at the Downtown Convention Center at 6 p.m.—focusing on acquiring adjudicated property—and additional mobile market visits are planned in Vermilion throughout the month.
Church Point police arrested Nicholas Daigle, 44—accused of cockfighting, cruelty to animals, possession of marijuana and interfering with an investigation—and found several dead chickens and one dog at an active fight on Saint Jude Street last Friday; additional arrests are expected as the investigation continues.
Lafayette Parish School System has restructured its special education department by dividing oversight into two roles—one for assessment and compliance and one for curriculum and instruction.
Falin Key and Devin Soeseno were named to these roles to support nearly 11% of students receiving special education.
The Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control has seized over $1 million in illegal vape products from smoke shops, including two in Lafayette (Candle Hookah Smoke Shop and Old Smokey Smoke Shop), and the crackdown will continue to ensure community safety.
The agency said shops must use an approved plan and follow strict rules to sell products legally, and it will inspect them often for compliance.
Tuesday night, the Lafayette City Council addressed drainage issues after four flash floods brought several inches of rain in just a few hours—residents say more action is needed.
City officials said six ongoing projects worth $86 million are in progress, and Mayor-President Monique Boulet is working with Congressman Clay Higgins to secure federal funds.
Two Lafayette residents filed a lawsuit against Lafayette Consolidated Government, claiming that the short-term rental ban violates their constitutional rights and has slashed their income.
The ban forced the DeSelles to convert their Airbnb into a long-term rental, cutting revenue roughly 50% + they have listed their property—into which they invested $90,000—for sale.
Local contractor Jacoby Landry bought Northgate Mall for $2.8 million and plans to turn the 20-acre site into a mixed-use center — anchored by a spa and fitness center — with support from the Lafayette Economic Development Authority.
Landry will finalize his redevelopment plans in the coming months.
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.
Taste of Acadiana
1-10 p.m. — CAJUNDOME & Convention Center — Check for admission fees — Savor delicious dishes from 35 local restaurants while supporting community charities.
Louisiana, Texas, GOM Oil & Gas Job Fair
9 a.m. – 1 p.m. — CAJUNDOME & Convention Center — Free entry — Network with industry professionals and explore job opportunities in the oil and gas sector.
WCI Marriage Retreat - Two Souls United in Christ
5 PM – 3 PM — Grand Coteau Retreats — Registration fee applies — Dive deeper into spiritual union and understand St. John Paul II's vision for marriage.
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