Good morning, New Orleans.

Evolve Coffee — Matcha opened its third kiosk in Lakeside Shopping Center today, replacing a former Starbucks spot; the new kiosk offers specialty coffee, matcha lattes, and quick meals for shoppers on the go.

Federal prosecutors expanded charges in a multimillion-dollar staged accident fraud case by indicting former attorney Sean Alfortish and several co-defendants on counts including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and obstruction of justice—defendants will be arraigned on May 14 at 2:00 p.m. in New Orleans with some held in custody and others free on bond.

Federal prosecutors in New Orleans filed new murder charges against disbarred attorney Sean Alfortish, 57, accusing him and his associate Leon + Chunky Parker of planning to kill federal witness Cornelius Garrison, who was shot 10 times on his mother's doorstep in Gentilly on Sept. 22, 2020.

On Monday, the Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office identified Maurice Preston, 60, as the man fatally shot in Bywater Friday night along St. Claude Avenue after an argument with Tremaine Sturgis, 46—arrested Saturday morning and booked on a second-degree murder charge.

Stronghold Studios—an art studio in Mid-City—is celebrating 28 years as the local force behind Jazz Fest’s hand-painted decor and sculptures.

The family-run studio will unveil new works—whimsical food booth pieces and 12-foot-tall Congo Square sculptures—to add fresh art to this year’s festival.

Jazz Fest wrapped up its first weekend with major acts like Lil Wayne and Dave Matthews Band performing for fans.

Next weekend from May 1 to 4, big names including Carlos Santana, Pearl Jam, Luke Combs, and Lenny Kravitz will entertain attendees, and Lenny Kravitz is expected to join Trombone Shorty onstage if schedules allow.

Gabriela Biro won the runoff election for Orleans Parish School Board's 2nd District as poll watchers were surprised by her outsider status and progressive platform over well-endorsed opponent Eric +Doc+ Jones.

A federal judge, Judge Grabill, ordered the Archdiocese to return to court in June—she noted the church made little progress settling claims from over 500 sex abuse victims—and to explain why its five-year-old bankruptcy case should remain active as officials dispute payout amounts.

State officials announced Monday that children who qualify for free or reduced-price meals will be automatically enrolled in the SUN Bucks program and receive a one-time $120 food benefit added to their cards—this benefit will be issued in the second half of May for a period of 122 days. Families who need to update or replace their cards should contact local assistance offices—ensuring that nearly all eligible children get the support they need this summer.

Between April 11th and 24th, permits revealed major projects reshaping New Orleans, including a $33M Marriott hotel renovation at 555 Canal St. + a $7.5M interior buildout at 433 Bourbon St. while a historic military warehouse in Algiers will convert to apartments for over $15.5M.

Other multi-million-dollar commercial and residential projects were approved in Jefferson Parish and St. Tammany Parish.

Mitch Woods Live

5-6 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Free entry — Experience the boogie-woogie sounds of Mitch Woods in a lively happy hour concert.

A New Orleans Tribute to Phil Lesh

9-10:30 p.m. — Joy Theater — Tickets start at $62.50 GA — Celebrate the music of Phil Lesh with a star-studded lineup of talented artists.

Mike Gordon Concert

8:30-10:30 p.m. — Joy Theater — Tickets from $47 — Experience a live performance from the Phish bassist in a vibrant setting.

Walk It Off Sis

9-11 a.m. — Metropolitan Events — Empowering women through group walks and open conversations about health and well-being.

Bearly Dead Tribute Show

7 PM - 12 AM — No Dice — $16.09 — Experience the vibrant tribute to Grateful Dead with a full-throttle live performance filled with energy and great musicianship.

Ed Volker & Dave Malone Concert

8 PM – 12 AM — Chickie Wah Wah — Tickets available — Celebrate Jazzfest's end with Ed Volker and Dave Malone accompanied by special guests.

Wessell Anderson Jazz Concert

6:30-8 p.m. — Ellis Marsalis Center for Music — $15 General Admission, $45 Reserved, $5 Students — Experience an evening of lively jazz with acclaimed musician Wessell Anderson on GiveNOLA Day.

October London Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Saenger Theatre — Tickets starting at $81 — Experience an electrifying evening with October London in New Orleans.

Spring Music Festival

11 a.m. - 6 p.m. — Zony Mash Beer Project — Free entry for under 18 — Celebrate the talent of young musicians with diverse performances across genres.

Mother's Day Brunch

10 a.m. — The Pelican Club — Starting at $76 — Treat Mom to a memorable 3-course brunch with diverse options for everyone.