Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 1st of August.
Good morning, Lafayette.
Lafayette man Andre Guidry, 33, was arrested on 6 felony video voyeurism counts & 5 counts of criminal trespass after police said he trespassed and videoed residents in homes on Stoneridge Dr with his bond set at $478,100.
A Ville Platte police officer, Issac Johnson, was arrested on charges of malfeasance, filing false public records and obstruction of justice after a June complaint about missing bullet casings led to allegations he framed a fellow officer during a shooting investigation—he is held on a $25,000 bond while the investigation continues.
Forbes spotlighted Lafayette as the beating heart of Cajun culture in an article published July 31—with travel writer Jared Ranahan praising the city's museums, cuisine and music, and Mayor-President Monique B.
Boulet noting the feature confirms Lafayette's strong cultural roots. The piece encourages visitors to explore the authentic traditions that make Lafayette unique.
Lafayette Travel launched a new video series titled Gumbo People today that highlights local artists—starting with acclaimed Francis X.
Pavy, whose bold, folkloric style honors South Louisiana's rich traditions. The series will feature more local creatives in future episodes to capture the unique cultural identity of the area.
Dr. Joseph Savoie stepped down as president of UL Lafayette after 17 years and was named president emeritus to focus on alumni relations and fundraising, plus Dr. Jaimie Hebert was appointed interim president while the university conducts a national search for a permanent leader.
City Hall will soon undergo a $17 million renovation to improve accessibility, energy efficiency, and public spaces, with Holly and Smith Architects designing a phased plan that keeps the building open during work — ensuring residents continue to access services.
Design work continues this Fall/Winter, bidding opens in Summer, and construction begins in Fall, with public input meetings set to follow the FY2025-2026 budget hearings.
Lajaunie Road will close on August 4 as Lafayette Consolidated Government replaces the old three-span concrete bridge over Bayou St. Clair Lateral 1 with a new concrete structure that features improved drainage, erosion control, and asphalt approaches.
The $2 million project will last about nine months with detour routes provided (Maryview Farm Road, Moss Street, East Gloria Switch Road) to keep local and emergency access open.
Louisiana Department of Health reported 17 Vibrio vulnificus cases and 4 deaths among residents, with 75% of cases linked to wound or seawater exposure—officials urged anyone with open wounds or weakened immunity to take extra precautions when near warm coastal waters—stressing the need to avoid raw or undercooked seafood.
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.
Louisiana Words Launch Event
6:30-8:30 p.m. — Cavalier House Books - Lafayette — Free entry — Celebrate local authors as they read their works at this inclusive nonprofit kickoff event.
Rice Owls vs. Louisiana Ragin Cajuns Football
7-8:30 p.m. — Cajun Field — Lowest Price Guaranteed — Catch an exciting college football matchup between the Rice Owls and Ragin Cajuns.
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