Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 8th of August.
Good morning, Lafayette.
🚨 Crime
A woman who alleged that colleges ignored rape reports settled her federal lawsuit with the University of Louisiana System on Aug.
1 as her trial neared—an outcome following a USA TODAY investigation that found campus officials repeatedly failed to share sex crime reports under Act 172—raising questions about how such cases are handled.
🎓 Education
Students started the new school year at Lafayette High on August 7 when the state-of-the-art facility opened to about 1,800 students—LPSS Superintendent Francis Touchet toured the campus and highlighted a focus on building strong relationships among teachers and students.
New traffic guidelines were also put in place on West Congress Street due to ongoing construction.
The new Lafayette High building—designed for future growth—opened yesterday and now holds about 1,800 students.
LPSS Superintendent Francis Touchet toured nearly half of the district's 50 schools yesterday and will visit additional schools today.
Students returned to Lafayette High School yesterday in a newly renovated facility with traffic guidelines in place to control drop-offs due to ongoing construction—police enforced school zone laws to boost safety.
Officials confirmed that the drop-off process ran smoothly as additional patrols helped manage the busy start to the school year.
🏛️ Government
The Lafayette Parish Council voted unanimously to place the Roads and Bridges and Public Health millage renewals back on the ballot for Nov.
15; the renewals combine to collect $24 million for road upkeep and public services including drainage upgrades. Mayor-President Monique Boulet said her office will run a new education campaign to clear up voter confusion from spring voting.
🏥 Health
An outbreak in New York City has caused 3 deaths and 67 cases of Legionnaires’ disease as it grows more dangerous for those with weak immune systems.
In Louisiana, about 35 cases are seen each year and the health department has not yet shared updates for 2025 — officials advise prompt treatment and proper water system maintenance.
🏈 Sports
The Ragin’ Cajuns football team visited First Horizon Bank — meeting fans as they gear up for their August 30 kickoff in the new stadium.
They will continue visiting local businesses in Lafayette throughout August to build excitement for the season.
🎉 Lafayette Events
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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.
McNeese State Cowboys at Louisiana Ragin Cajuns Football
7-8:30 p.m. — Cajun Field — Lowest Price Guaranteed — Experience the thrill of college football as the Cowboys face off against the Ragin Cajuns.
CajunMan Race
7-11 a.m. — T.R.A.I.L. Transportation Recreation Alternatives in Louisiana — Entry fee required — Immerse yourself in a tradition of endurance with a triathlon, duathlon, or 5k run/walk.
🏠 Lafayette Real Estate
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💼 Lafayette Job Board
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📣 Lafayette Announcements
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