Good morning, Lafayette.

Swig, a Utah-based drink shop known for its viral dirty sodas, will open its first Louisiana store at The Forum shopping center in Lafayette on Wednesday at 10 a.m. and will hold a soft opening until its grand opening on Aug.

18—after which weekday hours will change from 10 a.m.–8 p.m.

The Louisiana Department of Revenue urges residents and businesses to claim $16.9 million in unclaimed tax refunds by Sept 6 as over 17,000 refunds remain pending.

Meanwhile, Lafayette police report that a domestic dispute on Adellma Street left a man recovering as 25-year-old Berrien Brown is in custody facing charges of attempted second-degree murder and illegal possession of a firearm — in St. Martin Parish, police continue investigating the death of 16-year-old Iris Davis while her 25-year-old brother is arrested for failing to report the homicide.

Abbeville native and renowned country music artist James “Sandy” Sanford Pinkard Jr., 78, died Saturday at his Kingwood residence in West Virginia — he earned national fame with hit songs like 'You're the Reason God Made Oklahoma' and 'Mama She's Lazy.' A graveside service with full military honors will be held at the West Virginia National Cemetery on Thursday.

Two Acadiana educators were honored Saturday night at a gala at the National WWII Museum in New Orleans — Brandon Singleton of Grand Coteau Elementary in St. Landry Parish was named division-level Elementary Principal of the Year while Ali Romero Angelle of Teche Elementary in St. Martin Parish received division-level Elementary Teacher of the Year, recognized by the Louisiana Department of Education and Dream Teachers.

Louisiana voters registered as Independent will have their affiliation changed to No Party on August 1—this change follows a new law that ends recognition of the Independent Party and sets up a closed party primary system starting in 2026.

Voters will receive a mailed notification with an updated voter information card and should verify their registration details online.

Gov. Jeff Landry is reviving the DOGE initiative to use business ideas in state government and improve efficiency by cutting costs and saving taxpayer money & focusing on agencies like the Department of Health where new changes already saved $73 million.

He named business ally Steve Orlando as Fiscal Responsibility Czar to review spending and apply cost-saving steps & address calls for more transparency.

On Aug. 5, the Lafayette Parish Council will consider an ordinance that would let Mayor-President Monique Boulet negotiate a 90-year lease — with an option for another 90-year term — on Louisiana Avenue for the proposed Northeast Regional Library.

Final council approval is planned for Aug. 19.

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.