Good morning, New Orleans.

New Orleans will honor civil rights leader Dr. Norman C.

Francis with multi-day ceremonies beginning March 2 when his body lies in state at Xavier’s Convocation Center (9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.), followed by visitation at St. Louis Cathedral and burial at St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 on March 3.

Loyola University New Orleans offers its 2026 Wolf Pack LaunchU boot camp for startups with $34K in funding and an additional $4K for food ventures—with the free incubator open to students, alumni, faculty, staff and parents.

Meriton has entered Louisiana by forming a statewide HVAC platform with Mid-South Equipment, which unites Schully Strawn & Associates and JD Mechanical Equipment.

The new network will serve North and South Louisiana with local expertise and national support.

New Orleans & Company announced that New Orleans will host the 2026 North America's 50 Best Restaurants awards on May 28.

The multi-day program will feature culinary discussions, a collaborative Chefs' Feast and a live countdown to reveal the top regional dining spots.

Thousands celebrated Mardi Gras yesterday along Uptown as parades including Zulu, Rex and Trucks passed Jackson and St. Charles Avenue in 75°F weather, delighting families who waited hours to see over 40 floats from Zulu (and about 30 from Rex) in a festive atmosphere.

Three Louisiana brothers have made history by becoming the first African Americans inducted into the Motorcoach Hall of Fame & celebrated for decades of service driving tour buses on the West Bank, noted WDSU Anchor Darryl Forges.

Downtown New Orleans recorded nearly 2.2 million visits during Carnival, according to the Downtown Development District.

The high turnout & strong Lundi Gras Festival attendance show significant momentum for local businesses.

Lucien Victor Alexis served as principal of McDonogh 35 from 1926 to 1956 and built a strong legacy with strict discipline and academic research (he was famously dubbed 'The Negro Einstein').

His work still resonates in the local archives and community today.

New Orleans has proposed a $1M master plan to revitalize Armstrong Park and Municipal Auditorium into a cultural and economic hub.

If approved by City Council, planning will take nine to 12 months and involve partnerships with Save Our Soul Coalition & the Greater New Orleans Foundation.

The New Orleans Redevelopment Authority released its 2025 Annual Report showing progress in affordable housing, enhanced commerce corridors, and neighborhood revitalization across the city.

The report highlights a $22 million mixed-use project — offering 51 new units in the 7th Ward — and early learning grants supporting community centers.

Seafood season is underway as retailers and distributors see a surge in demand during Lent, with consumers cooking at home and dining out on Fridays.

Executive director Samantha Carroll noted that pricing may fluctuate while alligator remains a delicacy and is permitted during Lent (an endorsement from the Archbishop).

On Friday during Lent, local seafood vendors and restaurants experienced high demand as wild catfish and thin fish were plentiful despite a brief freeze that raised prices for crabs and crawfish; seafood expert Harlan Pierce noted oysters remained excellent + he encouraged support for local fishermen.

Local high school soccer teams have reached the state semi-finals in LHSAA play, showcasing strong regional talent.

Games will be played this week across New Orleans venues & promise competitive matchups that set the stage for the finals.

Natalie Prauser Concert

9 p.m. — Siberia — $12.47 — Experience the soulful blend of 60s folk and 70s outlaw country with Natalie Prauser's captivating storytelling.

Roger Lewis & Baritone Bliss

4:30-6:00 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Ticket information not provided — Legendary baritone sax player Roger Lewis brings his soulful sound to New Orleans.

The Enigma Variations Orchestra Rehearsal

12-2 p.m. — Orpheum Theater New Orleans — $15 for adults — Experience a behind-the-scenes look at the orchestra's rehearsal with insights from the musicians and conductor.

Love Letters by A.R. Gurney

7-9:30 p.m. — Crescent City Stage Co. — Tickets available — Experience a heartfelt exploration of love through intimate letters.

Loom Music Night

9:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. — Siberia — $12.47 — Experience an eclectic night of music with Laura Fisher, Theresa Romero, and Avian TV.

The Grammy Winning Hot 8 Brass Band

10:30 p.m. – 12:30 a.m. — The Howlin' Wolf — Ticket prices vary — Experience the infectious energy of a Grammy-winning brass band in the heart of New Orleans.

Fair Grounds Live Racing

12:45 – 2:45 p.m. — Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots — Reservation required — Experience exciting live horse racing in a vibrant atmosphere with buffet dining options.

Morgan Jay Live Performance

7 PM — Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of music and comedy with Morgan Jay, a rising star from Los Angeles.

Sticky Fingers Concert

7-10 p.m. — House of Blues New Orleans — Cashless venue — Experience live music in the heart of New Orleans at a renowned venue.

P.L.A.N. Appraiser & Umpire Certification Course

8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. — Hampton Inn & Suites New Orleans-Convention Center — Ticket required — Gain essential skills in property loss appraisal and umpire certification over five insightful days.