Good morning, Lafayette.

Dustin Poirier’s Good Fight Foundation hosted its annual giveaway of 1,200 school backpacks filled with school supplies at Service Chevrolet Cadillac in Lafayette to support local students and save families money — Poirier said he wanted to leave the community better than he found it.

The University of Louisiana System settled a federal Title IX lawsuit involving former student Daniel Silva who was described as an alleged serial rapist and faced multiple rape allegations despite not being charged, and the settlement terms remain undisclosed.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette acquired Pecan Island High School in Vermilion Parish and will convert it into the Peter M.

John—David M. John Wildlife and Coastal Preservation Center to support research and education focused on protecting our coastline. The facility, restored after severe Hurricane Rita damage two decades ago by the John brothers, will play a key role in local coastal preservation.

Lafayette first responders will soon use new interactive maps of LPSS schools to quickly locate exits and key areas during emergencies.

The maps—created over the summer by LPSS, Lafayette 911 and consulting firm Fenstermaker—will also enable police and sheriff units to access school cameras and expand to more schools in the parish.

Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry announced that SNAP dollars will no longer buy soda—energy drinks and candy starting January 15, 2026 after U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins approved a waiver.

The change is a key part of the state’s push to lead the MAHA movement for healthier lifestyles.

Lafayette Consolidated Government’s Awareness Committee for Citizens with Disabilities is accepting nominations for its 2025 Disability Awareness Awards Ceremony—set for October 7 at 9 a.m. at the Heymann Performing Arts Center—with nominations closing on August 25 at 11:59 p.m. to honor those who improve life for people with disabilities.

Four people died and 17 were hospitalized from Vibrio vulnificus infections linked to coastal water exposure, with 75% of cases reporting open wounds contacting seawater.

Health officials noted this surge is far above the usual annual average and advised that residents avoid seawater contact if they have cuts or wounds.

On August 5, Tito's Tini Tuesday took place at SoLou Lafayette—guests enjoyed a $4 Delta Dew Martini with their entrée while proceeds supported Healing House to aid grieving children in Acadiana.

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.

Alyse Young Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — La Pizzeria Lafayette — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of heartfelt tunes from local singer-songwriter Alyse Young as she serenades diners.