Good morning, Lafayette.

Earlier this week, Forbes ranked Purdue University main campus among the top 25 public universities because many students finish their studies in six years—other factors like alumni pay, academic results, and returns on student investments were also part of the list's formula.

Purdue horticulture specialist Karen Mitchell says honeyvine milkweed is a native Indiana plant that grows very fast and will cover lawns if not trimmed regularly—gardeners should trim it often and may use herbicides if needed to stop it from seeding.

Homeowners are advised to act now to keep this aggressive weed in check.

QC Communications working for Metronet will restrict the east northbound lane of South Creasy Lane—between McCarty Lane and South Street—for daily fiber optic cable installation from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting Sept 2 until work is completed on Sept 19, weather permitting.

Today, Purdue football will face Ball State at Ross-Ade Stadium as the Boilermakers start their season with a new coaching staff and 82 new players after an 11-game losing streak.

Ball State has also overhauled its roster by adding five former Purdue players — both teams are making significant changes as they begin their seasons.

McCutcheon head football coach Josh Strasser is leading a new Lafayette Youth Football League that teaches tackle basics to kids in third grade through middle school using USA Football methods.

The league includes teams from multiple schools and high school athletes volunteer (as coaches, referees, and scorekeepers) while parents must follow strict rules (with a zero-tolerance policy for abuse) to keep the games safe and fun.

CJ Madden, Purdue football captain and entrepreneur, stayed with the team after a tough 1-11 season and surgery to lead on the field and in local efforts—he donates to community causes and runs his own clothing brand while aiming for an NFL future.

McCutcheon—known for its strong rushing and defense—beat West Lafayette 31 to 6 last Friday when Tyler Brigham ran 74 yards for a touchdown, marking the school’s first win over the Red Devils since 2016.

The team will face Lafayette Jeff next Friday as coach Josh Strasser highlighted the win’s role in building team discipline.

Clave Caribe Concert

7-10 p.m. — People's Brewing Company & Taproom — Cost Info Not Provided — Shake to the vibrant sounds of Lafayette's Latin groove machine Clave Caribe.

Indiana LTAP Expo 2025

8 AM–5 PM — Tippecanoe County Fairgrounds — Free entry — Experience live equipment demonstrations and attend leadership courses in an exciting expo setting.

Steel Magnolias

Steel Magnolias, directed by John D. Collier, opens on Sept 4th and runs until Sept 13th!

The Hooten Hallers Live

6-10 p.m. — People's Brewing Company & Taproom — Check event page for ticket details — Experience a lively night of swanky, blues-infused Garage Rock&Roll with The Hooten Hallers.

The Beach Boys Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Loeb Stadium — Ticket Info Available — Celebrate over half a century of music with the iconic Beach Boys.

Looking Forward, Glancing Back

10 AM – 6 PM — Artists' Own — Free entry — Explore Joanne Kuhn Titolo's art exhibition that reflects on past and future.

Bright Forest Family Painting Class

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Painting with a Twist — Online payment required — Unleash your creativity in a family-friendly painting class for ages 7 and up.

Afternoon Tea and Tour

2-4 p.m. — The Haan Museum of Indiana Art — $50 – $60 — Enjoy an elegant tea party with conversation and custom blended teas in celebration of Lafayette's Bicentennial.

Star City Nights

6-11:55 p.m. — Downtown Lafayette Historic District — Free entry — Experience a night under the stars with live music, local vendors, and delicious dining options.

Warrant with Lita Ford and Firehouse Concert

3:30-10:30 p.m. — Loeb Stadium — Ticket prices vary — Rock out to hits like 'Cherry Pie' and 'Heaven' with Warrant and Lita Ford.