Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 17th of July.
Good morning, Lafayette.
Quality Companies is launching a $7 million expansion that will add 125 jobs at its Jeanerette plant and expand its alloy fabrication facility in Youngsville; construction began in July (with completion planned for December) to boost energy industry services in the region.
The Lafayette city planning commission will review plans on Monday to demolish the old building at 3211 Johnston Street for a 7Brew drive-thru coffee shop.
The property, listed at $1.325 million and once home to Service Cleaners (and Western Auto), marks another mid-city redevelopment effort.
Lafayette native Abby, a 24-year-old medical esthetician, is competing for love on Netflix’s new dating series Let's Marry Harry, which premieres Aug.
5. She aims to showcase traditional romance as she vies for a spot with reality TV personality Harry Jowsey — marking a notable local milestone.
Administrators at UL Lafayette delayed the move to a biweekly payroll switch until November in response to faculty feedback.
Faculty and staff will receive monthly paychecks through October, and adjunct instructors will get their first biweekly paycheck (Sept. 4).
Louisiana ranks fourth in mosquito count with 68 species due to its warm, humid climate and ample rainfall.
In 2025, 64 West Nile virus cases were reported (a reminder for locals to keep bug spray handy).
Black lawmakers and civil rights leaders in Lafayette gathered Wednesday to launch a voter engagement effort after a redesign of the congressional map reduced local representation.
They urged residents to register + vote ahead of midterms so that community voices remain strong in local decision-making.
Entergy plans to spend $30 billion to expand Louisiana's power grid—residential rates could climb about $40 per month, though industrial offsets may ease the cost.
Regulators and Gov. Landry are reviewing proposals and have set up measures to protect low-income ratepayers.
State health officials report 55 cases of cyclosporiasis across Louisiana (with five hospitalizations and no deaths) as of Thursday, and the LSU AgCenter urges consumers and food producers to follow strict food safety practices to reduce infection risks.
The Louisiana Department of Health said cases of cyclosporiasis have nearly doubled in one week (from 23 to 43) with 5 hospitalizations, including in Lafayette and East Baton Rouge.
Officials advise residents with persistent symptoms to seek care.
Louisiana features one of the highest mosquito populations with 68 species due to its rainy, humid climate.
In 2025, the state reported 64 West Nile virus cases, ranking it ninth nationwide.
Louisiana football representatives spoke at the Sun Belt Conference Media Day on July 16 to preview a team rebuild led by coach Michael Desormeaux.
The youthful squad, headed by returners Lunch Winfield and George Jackson, aims to fill gaps on offense and defense ahead of the fall season.
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.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
Stay in the know, Lafayette.
Free, always. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.