Friday, January 30th, 2026
Good morning, New Orleans. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 30th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Residents in Mid-City call for repairs on the 600 block of Murat Street as deep potholes, gravel fill-ups, and parked cars plus an idle construction drum create hazardous driving and biking conditions. Neighbors report that the rough road near a popular bar remains unsafe in both rain and shine. WDSU
- ➤ The Junior League of New Orleans will host its 2026 Women’s Leadership Summit on Mar. 6 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the InterContinental New Orleans Hotel (444 St. Charles Ave). The event offers keynotes, breakout sessions and networking to boost leadership skills for women at all career levels. Biz New Orleans
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ NOEW 2026 will be held from March 12-13 at Loyola University New Orleans, with keynote speakers including former Tesla President Jon McNeill on AI innovation, Louisiana Chief Innovation Officer Josh Fleig on the state’s strategy, and Arctic explorers John and Hannah Huppi sharing lessons from their record-setting expedition. New Orleans City Business
- ➤ Magnet Defense acquired Jeanerette-based Metal Shark Boats to boost AI unmanned vessel production, and Gramercy's Atlantic Alumina secured a $450M investment to modernize its refinery and gallium circuit. Meanwhile, Saronic Technologies is expanding its Franklin facility with a $300M project—adding 3,200 Bayou Region jobs—set to conclude later this year. New Orleans City Business
- ➤ New Orleans Entrepreneur Week has announced its first wave of keynote speakers for the 2026 Summit. The event will feature business leader Jon McNeill + innovation officer Josh Fleig and run March 9-14 with the summit at Loyola University. Biz New Orleans
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ With Mardi Gras approaching, federal, state, and local officers will increase security on downtown and Uptown parade routes to keep the celebration safe. Culture bearers believe that coordinated, respectful policing (including recent community efforts) will help protect the city’s vibrant traditions. Verite News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The City of New Orleans has activated a freeze plan ahead of cold weather for unhoused residents from today through Sunday. Shelters at Rosenwald Recreation Center (1120 S Broad Ave at 2:00 p.m.), Ozanam Inn, New Orleans Mission, The Salvation Army, and Low Barrier Shelter open at 4:30 p.m. WDSU
- ➤ Louisiana added about 3,300 residents last year between July 1, 2024 and June 30, though the state remains down about 40,000 since 2020. Demographer Greg Rigamer said further economic wins are needed to boost job growth and sustain future gains. Louisiana Radio Network
- ➤ Gov. Landry unveiled the Whole of Louisiana Energy Strategy yesterday, led by his administration’s development arm to connect state agencies + utilities + the energy industry to boost local growth. The report also explored Black History Month's centennial legacy in recognizing African American achievements. WWNO
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Louisiana health officials confirmed a ninth winter storm death when a 74-year-old man in DeSoto Parish died from hypothermia after losing power, and they urge residents to take precautions amid the extreme cold. Forty-four warming centers are open statewide to provide shelter and heat during the outages. New Orleans City Business
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ The River District project is set to develop 40 acres of vacant land around the convention center with affordable housing and retail options. Rivana Apartments will add 220 new units (165 affordable) to the area, with construction scheduled to begin this year near the Mississippi River. WDSU
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Saints quarterback Tyler Shough was named a finalist for AP Offensive Rookie of the Year and discussed his NFL honors, admiration for Drew Brees, and his upcoming Mardi Gras Grand Marshal role during a Jan. 28 interview. Fox 8
- ➤ The Saints are at the Senior Bowl in Mobile evaluating prospects to add playmakers ahead of their No.8 NFL Draft pick. Five coaching staff, including running backs coach Joel Thomas (head of the American Team), are offering insights as they review this year’s talent. WDSU
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Cajun Music Celebration with Bruce Daigrepont
5:15-7:15 p.m. — Tipitina's — Tickets starting at $21.83 — Experience the rich cultural heritage of Cajun music with Bruce Daigrepont and his band.
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Rebirth Brass Band Performance
9 PM – 12 AM — The Rabbit Hole — Cost not listed — Experience the vibrant energy of New Orleans' brass band revival with the Grammy-winning Rebirth Brass Band.
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Mardi Gras 2026 Balcony and Viewing Stand Tickets
6 PM – 3 PM, Feb 6-17 — Blake Hotel New Orleans, BW Signature Collection — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant Mardi Gras parades from the comfort of a prime balcony spot.
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Blue House Music Presents CHA WA!
2-5 p.m. — The Broadside — $15 for adults, free for kids — Experience a lively Carnival season show with the Grammy-nominated Mardi Gras Indian group Cha Wa.
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Post-Barkus Celebration with Tephra Sound
5-8 p.m. — No Dice — $19.83 — Celebrate Barkus with pup-friendly improvisations from Tephra Sound featuring Helen Gillet, Brian Haas, and Nikki Glaspie.
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Sacramento Kings at New Orleans Pelicans
7-9 p.m. — Smoothie King — Tickets required — Thrilling NBA matchup as Pelicans clash with Kings in a packed arena.
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Chris Shinn Live
8-10 p.m. — Chickie Wah Wah — Tickets start at $68 — Experience an unforgettable evening with Chris Shinn in New Orleans.
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The Rumble
9-11 p.m. — Tipitina's — Ticketed event — Experience Grammy-winning Jon Cleary’s funk-infused piano rolls that celebrate New Orleans music legends.
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The Soul Rebels Brass Band Live
11 PM - 2 AM — Le Bon Temps Roule — Tickets available — Experience the electrifying blend of brass, hip-hop, and soul from one of New Orleans' most beloved bands.
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Mardi Gras Masquerade Gala
8 p.m. — 8700 Lake Forest Blvd — Ticketed event — Celebrate in style with masks, dancing, and exquisite food and drinks.
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