Good morning, New Orleans.

Local innovators and leaders are recognized with awards spotlighting achievements in science, healthcare, law and venue management.

Tulane’s J. Quincy Brown became a 2025 fellow for developing cancer imaging technology, while groups like Ochsner and the New Orleans Convention Center received honors—celebrations set for upcoming events.

Julio Machado, chef and owner of Origin Bistro in the Bywater, received a call from his mother in the early hours amid military action in Venezuela and learned she is safe.

Local Venezuelans gathered at the bistro — celebrating hopeful news and a fresh start.

A water main break on LB Landry Ave + Lawrence St caused a street in Algiers to flood today; Sewerage and Water Board crews responded at the scene.

Deep-pocketed national chains have reshaped Magazine Street’s retail scene as local merchants have pushed back against the influx.

The trend was reported on Jan. 2 when shoppers observed the evolving mix (local opinions differ).

Haydel’s Bakery announced it will pause including collectible porcelain figurines in its king cakes for the 2026 Carnival season due to rising costs & production challenges; a limited number of figurines will be sold separately to keep king cake prices stable.

Local kitchens honor holiday traditions by preparing hearty gumbo, jambalaya, and sweet pies that reflect Louisiana's rich food culture.

The culinary display — full of seasonal colors and textures — invites neighbors to slow down and savor local heritage.

Jefferson Parish School Board purchased 28 acres near the Alario Event Center for $9.4M to build a new Westwego school that could serve K-12 students or serve solely as a high school.

A weak cold front is moving through New Orleans today as spotty showers give way to clear skies later with highs in the upper 70s, while cooler, drier air and morning fog bring lows in the 50s.

Rain chances remain low until scattered showers arrive next Saturday.

Janice Lansing, a longtime official with CPRA (the state’s coastal agency), has been honored with the R.

King Milling Distinguished Coastal Service Award. She managed coastal spending after the BP spill and driven efforts to restore wetlands and safeguard funds.

New Orleans expats returned for the holidays to chase familiar flavors at local eateries—savoring dishes like oyster po-boy, gumbo, and cannoli that recall their youth.

They will enjoy these meals before soon heading back to pursue new dreams.

Today, the New Orleans Saints and Atlanta Falcons meet for the final regular season match, with the Falcons chasing a season sweep and the Saints entering the game after winning four straight despite missing receiver Chris Olave (recovering from a blood clot).

Bangers Album Release Party

8 PM — Maple Leaf Bar — $15 Adv, $20 Day of Show — Enjoy a lively night featuring SLUGGER with local talents.

Fair Grounds Live Racing

12:45-2:15 p.m. — Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots — Reservation required — Enjoy a thrilling afternoon of live horse racing and clubhouse dining.

Fair Grounds Live Racing

12:45-2:15 p.m. — Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots — Ticket prices may vary — Experience the excitement of live horse racing while enjoying clubhouse dining.

Noel Coward's Blithe Spirit

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Le Petit Theatre — Ticketed event — Experience a delightful séance with the charmingly eccentric Madame Arcati and the hauntingly humorous antics that ensue.

Steve Detroy Trio Live Performance

1:00 PM – 8:30 PM — Fritzel's European Jazz Pub — Check for pricing — Experience the soulful, sophisticated sounds of the Steve Detroy Trio as part of the Happy Hour Concert Series.

Fair Grounds Live Racing

12:45-2:15 p.m. — Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots — Reservation required — Enjoy an exciting day of live horse racing with buffet dining options.

Charmaine Neville Band Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Tickets required — Enjoy Charmaine Neville's captivating voice and vibrant personality at one of New Orleans' favorite jazz spots.

Keiko Komaki Concert

6:30-7:30 p.m. — Ellis Marsalis Center for Music — Tickets available — Celebrate New Orleans piano traditions with a live performance.

Folk Alliance International Conference

10 a.m. - 12 p.m. — Sheraton New Orleans Hotel — $300 CAD for artists — Celebrate folk music with showcases and networking opportunities in the vibrant heart of New Orleans.

Blithe Spirit

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Le Petit Theatre — Ticket info not provided — Enjoy a comedic ghost story that brings the past to life with charm and wit.