Good morning, Lafayette.

The Acadiana Veterans Alliance received a $5,000 grant from the Homes for Heroes Foundation on Thursday to support veteran employment, mental health initiatives, and a donation to St. Michael’s Center for Veterans in Lafayette, recognizing the group’s work to ease transitions to civilian life.

A new chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace started in Lafayette in May to build durable beds for children in need, using 100% of donations to supply beds complete with mattresses, pillows, and bedding.

Volunteers without prior experience build and deliver these beds to address a growing local shortage.

Patacon Latin Cuisine on Bertrand Drive is accepting non-perishable food, personal hygiene items and baby supplies to aid Venezuela earthquake survivors during business hours.

Donations can be dropped off at 308 Bertrand Drive.

Walk-On’s Sports Bistreaux will open a new restaurant in Carencro in late July at 3520 NE Evangeline Thruway, offering a sports bar, outdoor patio, and over 100 new jobs while hiring for various positions.

The venue will feature a Louisiana-inspired menu designed to serve families and sports fans.

Corner Pantry, a longtime restaurant known for its plate lunches and friendly service, is closing after 60 years in Lafayette.

Manager Cari Brattin said the business will continue catering at a nearby location while loyal customers recall cherished memories.

Acadiana Center for the Arts is accepting applications for its Arts Career Incubator, a free program that runs Sept.

10–13 in downtown Lafayette. Thirty selected artists from various disciplines will receive mentoring, attend workshops, and build skills to create sustainable creative careers.

Acadian Ambulance will begin leasing Broussard Fire Station #2 (501 E.

Main St.) today as its new regional response headquarters to improve emergency response times with up to six ambulances on standby.

A Lafayette architect unveiled the design for the new Northeast Regional Library at a Monday night Board meeting, showing plans for a facility to honor the late Dr. Norman C.

Francis. The library will be built on Holy Rosary Institute land (leased for 99 years by the city).

A man at a Lafayette hospital was functionally cured of sickle cell disease after advanced gene therapy, marking Louisiana's first cure.

Doctors say this breakthrough treatment could help more patients in the future.

Acadian Ambulance is expanding services by converting a former fire station into a regional hub in Broussard + aimed at boosting emergency response along U.S. 90 and Ambassador Caffery Parkway.

The upgraded station will be operational by the end of September.

Louisiana raised the red snapper bag limit from 4 to 5 to mark America's 250th birthday, Gov. Jeff Landry and Wildlife and Fisheries Secretary Tyler Bosworth said.

The rule runs July 2-5 and reverts to 4 on July 6 at fishing spots like Venice (the Red Snapper Capital).

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.

Zydeco Sunday at Rock'n'Bowl

5-11 p.m. — Rock'n'Bowl® de Lafayette — $17.43 total — Experience lively Zydeco music and a vibrant atmosphere.

Back to School Potluck

6-8 p.m. — Blue Moon Saloon & Guest House — Drinks available — Bring a dish to share and connect with local educators and community members.