Good morning, Lafayette.

Columbian Park Zoo is accepting applications for its Zoo Teen program (youths 14 to 17), due by March 13; accepted participants will join mandatory training with interviews on March 29 or April 11 and volunteer one four-hour shift weekly during summer to gain animal care and leadership skills.

Local aid organizations like Lafayette Urban Ministry and Fairfield Township reported a surge in utility help requests after an 11% rate increase plus extreme weather and reduced federal funds drove up bills for many residents.

Agencies are scrambling to secure more staff and funding to meet the growing need.

New EveryPlate promo lets new customers receive a month of free steak and meals at $2.49 each if they sign up by March 6.

The meal kit service delivers fresh ingredients and simple recipes to help families plan dinners in Lafayette.

Yesterday, Trackside Camera Supply held its grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony at 1601 Kossuth Street with community leaders (owner David Teeter leading the event), marking the debut of a shop that sells camera gear, film and offers rentals and repairs.

CityBus is set to reduce service hours by about 25% as rising expenses and stagnant revenue force budget cuts.

CEO Bryan Smith said the funding shortfall is due to long-term financial challenges — not the loss of a 25-year Purdue contract.

Franciscan Physician Network Gastroenterology in Lafayette has added board-certified nurse practitioner Ariel Houim, who earned her Master of Science in nursing at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and recently treated gastrointestinal disorders in Florida.

Parkview Health plans to build a full-service hospital near Yeager and Kalberer Roads in West Lafayette with construction starting in 2026 and an opening targeted in 2028.

The project will create 250 jobs and offer 40 inpatient beds, expanding local healthcare access.

Lollipop Concert Featuring Stravinsky's Firebird

7 PM-1 AM — Long Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the colorful and magical sounds of Igor Stravinsky's enchanting Firebird.

The Revolutionists - Opening Night!

Opening night includes complimentary food by Revolution BBQ, with a special lobby performance by local cellist, Abby Eddy! And a pre-show performance by Voyageur Ancient Fife and Drum Corps!

Mardi Gras Party with Star City Rhythm Revival

8 p.m. — Digby's Pub and Patio — Check for cover charge — Get ready to groove at this lively Mardi Gras celebration with Star City Rhythm Revival.

Valentine's Day Lovely Starry Night

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — Paid reservation required — Unwind and express your creativity in a fun, adult-only painting class this Valentine's Day.

Midwest Rentals Annual Home & Garden Show

10 AM – 4 PM — Tippecanoe County Fairgrounds — Entry fee varies — Explore local businesses offering expert home and garden services along with arts and crafts.