Good morning, Lafayette.

Shelby Bordelon was crowned Miss Louisiana 2026 on Saturday night — she will represent Louisiana at Miss America in West Palm Beach from Aug.

28 to Sept. 6.

Local Catholic clergy in Louisiana say using AI for homily writing would miss the essential prayer & reflection that enriches the Mass, citing guidance from Pope Leo XIV.

They stress that heartfelt homilies must come from deep personal insight rather than computer-generated text.

UL announced the closure of its Picard Center for Child Development and Marine Survival Training Center to help address a $12 million deficit.

Two primary programs and seven researchers from the child center will move to the College of Education + UL expects $9 million in state bailout funds for next year's budget.

Louisiana men’s basketball has added international talent by signing Russian forward Mikhail Dulkay (6‑foot‑9) as he recovers from a season‑ending arm injury; he spent time with Zenit’s teams and will boost coach Quannas White’s roster ahead of the 2026‑27 season.

Louisiana baseball bolstered its roster by adding transfer catcher Jose Carmona Jr from Loyola Marymount and hiring former LSU star Ryan Patterson as hitting coach — the move gives coach Matt Deggs depth at catcher with two years of eligibility remaining; Carmona joins after a 2026 medical redshirt in Lafayette.

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.

Lafayette Nutcracker Market - Christmas In July

10:00 AM – 4:30 PM — CAJUNDOME & Convention Center — Support local businesses — Shop for boutique clothing, unique decor, and gourmet treats in a festive atmosphere.