Central Louisiana News

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) recently addressed the Kiwanis Club of Lafayette, discussing various issues facing Acadiana and the entire state. During his speech, Cassidy emphasized the importance of community commitment and national security. He stated, "Kiwanians are committed to making our communities better. This sort of commitment to our fellow Americans is just what we need, whether it’s controlling our southern border or protecting our national security."

In his efforts to secure the southern border, Cassidy introduced the Creating Obstructions Necessary to Address Illegal and Nefarious Entry Rapidly (CONTAINER) Act, which allows border states to place temporary barriers on federal land. Additionally, he has introduced legislation to prevent liberal states from using American citizens' funds to provide Medicaid benefits to illegal immigrants.

Cassidy also highlighted the progress made in boosting Acadiana's infrastructure through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. He mentioned a $1.7 million grant to the Lafayette Airport Commission to improve operations at Paul Fournet Field, as well as funding to make properties in Lafayette Parish less vulnerable to flooding.

Mr. Ryan Lavergne, President of the Kiwanis Club of Lafayette, expressed appreciation for Senator Cassidy's visit, stating, "We enjoyed the discussion and information relating to infrastructure, energy, and other vital topics important to the Acadiana area."

Following his address to the Kiwanis Club, Cassidy visited FlightSafety International’s Gulf Coast center in Lafayette, where he praised the company for its training programs in the aviation industry. He mentioned, "This company has five centers training helicopter pilots nationwide, and one of them is in Lafayette. One of those industries that you didn’t know was here, and once you do, you’re incredibly impressed."

During his visit to FSI, Cassidy had the opportunity to test his flying skills in a simulator and successfully landed a simulated helicopter on an oil rig without incident. Mr. Brad Thress, President and CEO of FlightSafety International, welcomed Cassidy to the facility and expressed gratitude for the visit, saying, "During Senator Cassidy’s visit, we were able to test his flying skills in a simulator and take a tour of the simulators which ensure thousands of pilots around the world are trained safely to support the transportation of people, goods, and services across the state of Louisiana and around the world."

The interactions between Senator Cassidy, the Kiwanis Club of Lafayette, and FlightSafety International showcase the importance of community engagement, infrastructure development, and industry partnerships in advancing the interests of Louisiana and its residents.