Good morning, Lafayette.

The United Way of Acadiana has launched its annual Stuff the Bus campaign to collect school supplies for local educators ahead of fall school start.

Donations can be dropped off at several local businesses until Aug. 6.

LASCC will join a national drive sponsored by BISSELL Pet Foundation from July 5—26 to help pets find homes.

The shelter will hold free adoption hours Monday—Friday 8:00 a.m.—4:30 p.m. and Saturday 12:00 p.m.—2:00 p.m. to ease crowding.

Two Lafayette families received keys to their new Habitat homes today built with local volunteer support as they worked alongside construction crews to learn essential skills.

The new homeowners now look forward to creating lasting memories and building a close community as neighbors.

St. Landry Parish Sheriff's Office is running a donation drive to collect cleaning and recovery supplies for residents hit by flooding from Tropical Storm Arthur in northern parts of the parish.

Supplies can be dropped off at Lebeau, Eunice and the Public Safety Complex sheriff's offices.

AOC Community Media has named Jamie Angelle as executive director to lead the 45-year-old public access media organization.

Jamie, who previously served as deputy chief of staff (under former Mayor-President Josh Guillory) and worked with local TV and radio stations, will steer community broadcasting efforts in Acadiana.

The Lafayette Best Martini Competition is part of the Tito's Tini Tuesday Tour running from June 16 to Aug.

4 at Acadiana restaurants, offering $4 martinis with an entree to benefit Healing House. Diners may vote for their favorite cocktail with a $1 online donation and buy local merchandise.

Lafayette chef Kris Allen won the 2026 Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off on July 1 at Jefferson Parish and earned the King of Louisiana Seafood title.

He will represent Louisiana at the 22nd annual Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans on Saturday, July 25 & promote the state’s seafood industry.

With the U.S. marking 250 years of freedom, a Lafayette historian shows how Acadian militia men helped secure independence during the Revolutionary War.

The feature—sponsored by Bayou Vermilion District—explains this small but important part of our past.

Air Products canceled its $4.5 billion Louisiana Clean Energy Complex project in Ascension Parish on June 30 after financial returns did not meet its criteria.

Ascension Parish President Clint Cointment expressed disappointment while Livingston Parish President Randy Delatte welcomed the decision (citing environmental concerns).

Hancock Whitney is urging Lafayette residents, families and businesses to prepare their finances for severe weather as Tropical Storm Arthur reminds locals of Gulf South risks; the bank advises digitizing documents, reviewing insurance and setting aside emergency funds to ease recovery.

The State Fire Marshal today urged residents to use fireworks safely as permitted stands will operate until 11:59 p.m. July 5.

The agency advises using fireworks only in open areas 200 feet from buildings + keeping water nearby for added safety.

Family Tree Information, Education & Counseling Center offers water safety tips to help keep young children safe around pools and open water.

Parents are advised to designate a water watcher, limit distractions, and use proper life jackets and secure fencing.

Chris Kendall of Christian Brothers Automotive advises drivers to check their tires, fluid levels, and brakes before their July 4th weekend road trip.

AAA reports that over 61.4 million Americans will be on the road, so a professional inspection may help ensure safe travel.

Out of the Box Ventures put the 122,512 sqft mall anchor space and adjacent parking at Acadiana Mall up for sale for $1.4 million — the listing was posted by Elifin Realty — after buying it in 2019 from JC Penney and leasing it back with a five-year lease plus two renewal options.

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.