Good morning, Lafayette.

On March 5, YWCA Greater Lafayette hosted its 52nd annual Salute to Women event, honoring local leaders like Rising Star Sophia Betz and Woman of Promise Audra May.

The event celebrated contributions from women in leadership roles.

Residents gathered Monday for final photos with the Kissing Tree on Grant Street near West Lafayette High School as the city plans its removal next week for safety reasons; Mayor Erin Easter said a replacement Kissing Tree will be planted and the wood preserved.

AAA said Tippecanoe County gas prices have risen to $3.57 today, up from $2.79 last week; local drivers using premium fuel say the increase adds strain on their budgets + many hope prices drop soon.

AAA reported that on Monday gas prices in Indiana averaged $3.478 per gallon, up from early March levels.

Pulaski and Carroll counties reached about $3.60 (the highest averages statewide) while Gibson County posted the lowest price at $3.07.

Purdue Early Care and Education Center is closing, leaving parents to scramble for child care as plans to merge with a nearby facility may cut safety features like an indoor playground and tornado shelter.

Parents and professors urge the university to act as demand outstrips spots on growing wait lists.

Residents in West Lafayette are urged to be ready for strong storms during Severe Weather Preparedness Week — a video explains safety steps for those who may be affected.

The left lane on South Street was closed Monday around 10 a.m. for Comcast fiber optic work between North 2nd and North 4th Streets downtown.

Duke Energy tree work will cause lane restrictions on 18th and South Streets until Friday (drivers should proceed with caution).

Lafayette earned a SolSmart Gold designation for making it easier and more affordable for residents and businesses to adopt solar energy; city officials streamlined permitting and inspections — a move that boosts local solar development.

Lafayette area college softball players are making significant impacts this season on teams from Division I to NAIA.

Stars like Chelsea Parker, Avery Layton, and Sydney Rainford are bolstering their programs and showcasing local talent.

Local high-school sports fans can vote for the best girls basketball player in the Journal and Courier Readers Choice contest, which features 10 top local candidates.

Voting will close at noon Friday, and the winner will be announced Saturday before the IHSAA boys basketball regionals.

Purdue senior point guard Braden Smith was named to the Wooden Award National Ballot by the Los Angeles Athletic Club, making him one of 15 chosen nationally and one of four from the Big Ten.

Purdue plays in the Big Ten Tournament third round on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Local auto technician Lonnie Hinkle from Jiffy Lube advises West Lafayette drivers to check oil, tires, and wipers before leaving for spring break trips; he says routine maintenance will save money + ensure safety on the road.

Randy Travis: More Life Tour

7:30 PM — Long Center for the Performing Arts — Tickets available — Experience the timeless music of Randy Travis live in Lafayette.

2026 Purdue Spring SASES Regional Meeting

Mar 25-27 — Purdue University Department of Agronomy — Registration required — Engage with industry speakers and network with young professionals in agriculture.

Sensory-Friendly Easter Egg Hunt

4:30-6:30 p.m. — Junction House — Free entry — Experience a calm and inclusive Easter egg hunt tailored for sensory needs in a welcoming environment.

Doggy EGG-stravaganza

10 AM – 4 PM — McCaw Park — Free entry — Enjoy an egg hunt designed especially for furry friends in a festive atmosphere.