New
in New Orleans
Thursday, January 15th, 2026
Good morning, New Orleans. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 15th of January.
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ New Orleans & Co.'s CEO Walt Leger outlined Moreno’s 100-day plan and executive orders while noting that tourism and hospitality will face major changes; the new measures are expected to influence local business soon. WWL-TV
- ➤ The Louisiana Impact Fund launched a new, Louisiana-based private equity fund to invest in local companies and keep jobs + wealth in the state. Led by founders Seremet, Quoyeser, and Cummings, the fund aims to raise $100 million while focusing on founder transitions and business expansions. Biz New Orleans
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ New Orleans music industry insiders are watching a 5th Circuit ruling that grants songwriter Cyril Vetter full global copyright of his 1960s hit 'Double Shot (Of My Baby's Love)' following his 2022 contract termination with Resnik Music Group. The decision may change industry practices nationwide (impacting local creatives). NOLA.com
- ➤ Author Michael Shurtz details the story of New Orleans’ first street jazz band—the Razzy Dazzy Spasm Band—in his new book. It explains the band's role in shaping the early roots of our local jazz culture. WWL-TV
- ➤ Jazz Fest 2026 launches a new Rhythm In Blues shirt collection that celebrates Mardi Gras Indian heritage with designs inspired by Big Chief Bo Dollis. Festival-goers can buy the new shirts at the Jazz and Heritage Festival starting April 23-26 and again April 30 – May 3. WWL-TV
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ ATALCO in Gramercy announced a $450 million partnership with the U.S. Department of Defense and private investors to expand alumina production — launching the nation's first large-scale primary gallium facility that will support 500 jobs with additional federal funding expected in 30 days. Biz New Orleans
- ➤ Labor data shows Louisiana employment has risen past two million for a record seventh month, driven by major construction projects like a new AI data center (in Richland Parish) and industrial developments across the state. The state is 2,000 jobs from breaking its all-time record. Louisiana Radio Network
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Months after a massive fire and chemical spill at Smitty’s Supply facility in Roseland, environmental officials are reviewing test results to check for lingering hazards (aiming to safeguard community health). WWL-TV
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Downtown Development District is planning $100K upgrades at Molly Marine Plaza with updated lighting & improved public spaces in Downtown; the project is funded by Louisiana Act 461 and will be completed by July 2026 to support the BioDistrict vision. New Orleans City Business
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Louisiana locked key maternal medications misoprostol and mifepristone as Schedule IV drugs, and local hospitals in New Orleans have reported delays in treating emergencies and miscarriages. The state has asked a federal judge to extend these restrictions nationwide, raising concerns among doctors and patients. The Lens
- ➤ Ochsner Health is launching its Alcohol Free for 40 Days Challenge on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 18 – running through Easter. The $59 program offers detailed metrics and support to help participants reset their habits and boost their energy. Louisiana Radio Network
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Northlake Christian won a District 7-IV soccer match against Pope John Paul II 3-0 on Jan. 13. Sophomore Harry Wall scored twice and junior Stevie Tujague added the third goal — a win that sets up a chance to secure an undefeated district title. NOLA.com
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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Hadestown
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Saenger Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience a captivating musical journey to the underworld where myth and music intertwine.
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Noel Coward's Blithe Spirit
7:30-10:30 p.m. — Le Petit Theatre — Ticket prices vary — A whimsical comedy about a novelist haunted by a ghost after a séance goes awry.
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DUG: Folk Duo Performance
7-10 p.m. — The Broadside — Ticket prices vary — Experience the unique blend of American and Irish folk with DUG's captivating storytelling and humorous lyrics.
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