Good morning, Lafayette.

Lafayette Public Library launched its 2025 limited-edition library card by local artist Colette Bernard featuring a colorful egret carrying books that recalls a south Louisiana childhood; new cards are free and existing cardholders can replace theirs for $1—offers available while supplies last.

The Lafayette Consolidated Government’s Environmental Quality Division and Keep Lafayette Beautiful were awarded a $10,000 grant from the Office of the Lieutenant Governor to fund landscaping projects at the Cajun Prairie Entryway on Louisiana Avenue and at the Moncus Park entrance on Johnston Street. Planting will begin on Nov. 1, 2025—bringing local art, native plants and community pride to these key public spaces.

DMR Technologies, a U.S.-based drone manufacturer, will open its first full-scale facility at 105 Dorset Ave in Freetown using the old reptile tannery building—renovations are underway with production set to begin by the end of the year.

The project is expected to create 521 jobs over the next 10 years and assemble 500—1,000 drones in the first year, strengthening the local supply chain.

The Grouse Room—a well-known live music venue in downtown Lafayette—closed unexpectedly after a creditor seized the property because the owner owed $20,000 in back taxes and a sign now shows it is for sale.

The venue moved to its two-story space in 2020.

Historian Floyd Knott, 91, released his book Where the Old West Begins that preserves Acadiana's history—culture and folklore for future generations.

He gathered local stories to share our region's heritage in a way that will inspire those who read it.

Today, the Lafayette Parish School System approved a plan to spend more than $30 million to build new permanent classrooms at Broadmoor, Ernest Gallet and Westside elementary schools and to renovate Milton Elementary and Lafayette High, replacing portable classrooms.

A young student had the honor of calling the board's approval vote during the meeting.

Less than 24 hours after announcing six layoffs, Interim President Jaimie Hebert spoke to UL faculty and staff in a packed theater and asked for trust and help in trimming costs to fix a $25 million gap by June 2026.

He explained that the changes will include selling property, consolidating commencement into one day, and ending a student housing hotel contract to save $900,000—more layoffs are planned.

Thirty-one Louisiana high school students on the Louisiana Legislative Youth Advisory Council want to improve school safety and mental health by reviewing construction risks—an effort that builds on the School Safety Act—while also pushing for more youth input on local decisions.

Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple said today that the federal shutdown halted new or renewed flood insurance policies as the National Flood Insurance Program expired during hurricane season — current policies will remain active until they end and some real estate transactions may be delayed in high-risk flood areas. Homeowners and businesses with over 450,000 active policies are advised to check with their agents about pending applications.

On October 1, the Louisiana Department of Health took over administering SNAP from the Department of Children and Family Services under Project One Door—recipients still get benefits without interruption and with no change to eligibility.

Our Lady of Lourdes Regional Medical Center has opened 11 new emergency department beds on Ambassador Caffery Parkway as part of its Advancing Acadiana plan to improve care—officials say the new beds will reduce wait times and better manage rising emergency visits.

LCA football quarterback Braylon Walker has committed to UL football where he will play cornerback next fall after discussing the switch with his family—he remains focused on winning a state championship with his Knights this season.

Alyse Young Live at La Pizzeria

6-10 p.m. — La Pizzeria Lafayette — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of soulful music from Lafayette's own singer-songwriter Alyse Young.

PetSmart Adoption Event

10 AM – 1 PM — PetSmart — Free entry — Meet adorable adoptable cats and dogs ready to find their forever homes.

Sax in the City: Dee Lucas with The Dave Mouton EXPerience

7-10 p.m. — Brass Room — Tickets available — Experience a night of jazz featuring soulful saxophone and vibrant performances.

Treats at the Village

5-8 p.m. — LARC's Acadian Village — Free entry — Celebrate Halloween with a special trick-or-treat experience designed for individuals with special needs and their families.

Alyse Young Live Performance

6-10 p.m. — El Paso Mexican Grill — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of live music with singer-songwriter Alyse Young from Lafayette.

Rory Scovel Live Comedy Show

7-10 PM — Club 337 — Reserved Seating ($30) + General Admission ($25) — Enjoy a night of laughs with comedian Rory Scovel known for his appearances on Netflix, HBO, and Apple TV+.

Daryl Felsberg Stand-Up Comedy Show

7-8:30 p.m. — Cité des Arts — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of laughs with the larger-than-life comedian Daryl Felsberg.

Forged in the Fire: The Forgiven

4:30-6:30 p.m. — Cité des Arts — Check event page for cost — A powerful stage play exploring redemption and forgiveness that promises to inspire.

Alyse Young Performance at Park Bistro

6-10 p.m. — Park Bistro — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of music with local artist Alyse Young in a cozy bistro setting.

2025 Hometown Classic Golf Tournament

7:00 AM – 3:30 PM — Oakbourne Country Club — Registration required — Play in the 18th Annual Spring fundraiser supporting local initiatives at a beloved Lafayette course.