Good morning, New Orleans.

Two investigative reporters from Mississippi and New Orleans have joined a new regional center for investigative reporting (a collaboration with The New York Times and Deep South Today) and will produce local accountability stories with support from Big Local News and a grant from Arnold Ventures.

Entergy New Orleans hosted a pop-up event in New Orleans East yesterday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the United Way SELA Prosperity Center to assist customers with bill payments and share energy-saving tips.

A car fire closed lanes of the Bonnet Carre Spillway at Mile Marker 217 + firefighters remained on scene as traffic delayed those heading into New Orleans.

Jeff Mazzanti of Lanier & Associates Consulting Engineers celebrates 30 years at the firm, having served as project manager, chief engineer and vice president while leading marine, industrial and port projects along the Gulf Coast — his work expanded the firm’s LNG portfolio and global alliance with HR Wallingford.

Family members and fellow deputies will gather today for a funeral procession honoring Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Deputy Christopher Ohlmeyer, who died in a crash while escorting a service.

The Krewe of Barkus is gearing up for its Wicked and Wagged parade in the French Quarter + Mayor Moreno's dog, Nacho Moreno, has been named Celebrity Grand Marshall.

LSU and UNO signed a data-sharing agreement + redirecting fall applicants to UNO as it prepares to rejoin the LSU System as LSU New Orleans on July 1.

The transition tackles enrollment and financial challenges and includes plans for campus improvements and online program consolidation, with a final plan due by April 1.

UHC teacher education programs earned a top rating from the Louisiana Department of Education and will launch a new online Master of Arts in Teaching program for career changers this summer — registration begins March 16.

Strong northern winds triggered a rare blowout tide along the coast — lowering water levels from Fontainebleau State Park to bayous near New Orleans' West End on Thursday, Feb.

5; boaters are adjusting routes and fishermen report redfish catches. Officials expect water levels to rebound in coming days.

The Louisiana DOTD is building the new Leo Kerner Bridge to reconnect Barataria and Lafitte after Hurricane Ida damaged the old bridge.

Boh Bros. Construction manages the project ($55 million) with LA 45 roadway upgrades and a swing span planned for mid-April 2027.

More than 5,000 stroke experts are in New Orleans at the American Stroke Association International Stroke Conference—which started Feb.

4 and will finish today at the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center—and sharing the latest science on stroke treatment.

Thursday night the NFL announced its Hall of Fame class and former Saints quarterback Drew Brees may become the team's first first-ballot inductee if selected, joining four others with Saints ties in Canton.

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.

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.

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.

Chris Shinn Live

8-10 p.m. — Chickie Wah Wah — Tickets start at $68 — Experience an unforgettable evening with Chris Shinn in New Orleans.

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.

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.

Mardi Gras Masquerade Gala

8 p.m. — 8700 Lake Forest Blvd — Ticketed event — Celebrate in style with masks, dancing, and exquisite food and drinks.

Cajun Holiday Fest on Paddlewheeler Creole Queen

6-9 p.m. — Paddlewheeler Creole Queen — $140 — Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a romantic cruise featuring live jazz, gourmet dining, and champagne.

Tom McDermott & Suzanne Ortner Concert

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Check venue for cost — Experience the rich piano traditions of New Orleans with renowned musician Tom McDermott.

Rebirth Brass Band Live Performance

9 PM – 1 AM — The Rabbit Hole — Tickets available — Experience the Grammy-winning Rebirth Brass Band leading the New Orleans brass band revival.