Good morning, Lafayette.

St. Landry Parish Crime Stoppers has solved 350 cases over its twenty-year run by using over 4,000 anonymous tips and has seized $250,000 in drugs and recovered $1.2 million in property—while hosting a banquet to honor law enforcement with awards such as Officer of the Year.

Last Friday marked one year since Lafayette Police Sr. Cpl.

Segus Jolivette was killed during a July 25 hostage rescue in Jeanerette—his sacrifice was honored with a moment of radio silence at 3:56 p.m.—and in May officials charged Nyjal Hurst while the state passed the Segus Jolivette Act to tighten penalties for violent offenses.

Coca-Cola announced a return to cane sugar in some of its products—a change that could help local sugarcane farmers as they look to boost jobs and demand.

Fourth-generation grower Ross Noel of Donaldsonville said his farm is five months into the growing season and he expects the new decision to benefit his community when the cane is harvested in a few months.

Lafayette High School unveiled its renovated campus to officials on July 24.

The 320,000 square-foot facility features 52 modern classrooms, a band room and improved safety measures—set to benefit over 1,800 students for the 2025-2026 school year.

Starting August 1, Louisiana will ban handheld cellphone use while driving and drivers caught doing so will face a $100 fine that doubles if a crash happens—officials will issue warnings until January 1 and exempt emergency responders and 911 calls.

Lafayette Consolidated Government broke ground on a $5 million streetscape project at 12th and Surrey (in the heart of McComb-Veazey) on Thursday, starting work block by block from Plum Street to Crocket Street.

The project, part of the Evangeline Corridor plan (which aims to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility), includes new sidewalks, stamped brick crosswalks, upgraded bus stops and landscaping and is expected to take 18 months.

Ancestral Artistry: The Influence of Africans and Creoles of Color on Louisiana Architecture

6:30-8 p.m. — Vermilionville Performance Center — Free entry — Discover the impactful contributions of Black master artisans to the architectural landscape of Louisiana.

Alyse Young Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — Bushido-Lafayette — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of original music from local artist Alyse Young in a vibrant restaurant setting.

Alyse Young Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — La Pizzeria Lafayette — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of live music by local singer-songwriter Alyse Young in a cozy pizzeria setting.

Acadian Culture Day 2025

10 AM – 5 PM — Lafayette Parish Bayou Vermilion District — Free admission — Celebrate Acadian culture with live music, crafts, and delicious local food at this family-friendly festival.

Louisiana Theatre Festival

7-9:30 p.m. — Wonderland Performing Arts — Ticketed event — Experience talented groups from across Louisiana competing with their best short scenes for fantastic prizes.

Public Art Workshop Series

12-5 p.m. — Acadiana Center for the Arts — Scholarships available — Build your skills in 3D public art with expert guidance and hands-on experience.

One Vision of Queen Featuring Marc Martel

8-9:30 p.m. — Heymann Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the world's largest Queen tribute band with an incredible performance by Marc Martel.

The Greg Gordon Project Live Concert

7 p.m. — Brass Room — Ticket info not provided — Experience a soulful night with Louisiana's own Greg Gordon and his signature blend of soul and R&B.