Good morning, New Orleans.

The New Orleans Fire Department evacuated 135 residents from a 14-story high-rise on Gravier Street early Thursday morning when a fire started on the seventh floor due to unattended food on a stove—sprinklers quickly activated to contain the flames, causing water damage to several floors with no injuries reported.

At the time of the May 16 jail escape, incarceration rates at the Orleans Parish lockup had nearly twice the national average — with all 10 escapees Black and many held far longer than typical — and the search for two fugitives continues amid a strained facility and understaffed operations.

St. Bernard Parish Sheriff's Office warns that scam text messages impersonating the Louisiana OMV threaten legal action and urge recipients not to click links or share personal information—authorities advise reporting any suspicious messages immediately.

Ronnie Abboud, 86, has volunteered at the National WWII Museum since it opened on June 6th and shared his memories as the museum marks 25 years today.

He said the museum grew from a focus on D-Day into showing many World War II stories & he feels proud of its role in honoring veterans.

The Louisiana Legislature passed a bill last year to modernize campaign finance laws by refining political committee rules, raising disclosure thresholds, and tightening ethics board procedures+ the changes are meant to protect free speech and taxpayer dollars.

Louisiana lawmakers approved a bill that allows a new bidding process—invitation to negotiate—to quickly select a vendor to replace over 10,000 aging voting machines; the measure now goes to the governor for signature.

Secretary of State Nancy Landry said her office will secure a contract by the end of 2025 and begin a phased rollout in 2026.

LSU pitcher Kade Anderson, a St. Paul’s alum, was named May’s Allstate Sugar Bowl Athlete of the Month on June 5—highlighting his 4-1 record, 2.30 ERA, and 54 strikeouts in May.

He will start tomorrow in LSU’s NCAA Super Regional game against West Virginia at 1 p.m. from Alex Box Stadium on ESPN.

The Helldivers, a historic group with over 60 years of tradition, held their annual spearfishing rodeo in Venice where members dive under oil rigs to capture fish in stormy, rough conditions.

The participants face risks like strong currents and unpredictable weather — they remain dedicated to the sport amid concerns that renewable energy projects could reduce the number of rigs available.

Nola Soul Flower Music Fest

1-8 p.m. — Louis Armstrong Park — Ticket purchase required — Experience the world's first Hip Hop Food Festival with delicious food and live music from top DJs and bands.

The Walrus — A New Orleans Beatles Experience

8-10 p.m. — The Broadside — Tickets possibly available — Experience a faithful tribute to The Beatles' beloved song catalog performed by four talented local musicians.

Peter Hook & The Light Concert

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Joy Theater — Almost sold out — Experience the legendary sounds of Peter Hook & The Light live in New Orleans.

Andrea Bocelli Live Performance

8:00 – 9:30 PM — Smoothie King Center — Ticketed event — Experience a night of classical music with the world-renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli.

Delfeayo Marsalis & the Uptown Jazz Orchestra

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of captivating jazz with Delfeayo Marsalis and his talented orchestra.

Jacqui Naylor Live Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Ticket prices vary — Experience the captivating blend of jazz, folk, and pop from acclaimed vocalist Jacqui Naylor.

CPDD 85th Annual Scientific Meeting

10 a.m. — Sheraton New Orleans Hotel — Registration required — Engage with leaders in substance use disorder research and explore innovative therapies.

Father's Fest 2025

2-8 p.m. — The Broadside — Free entry — Celebrate fathers with live music, entertainment, and family-friendly activities in a vibrant community setting.

2025 The Enclave Women's Retreat Weekend

8 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Cambria Hotel New Orleans Downtown Warehouse District — Check website for details — A transformative retreat exploring women's empowerment and personal growth.

Ala Jaza Live Performance

10 PM — Empire — Ticket prices vary — Experience an electrifying live show by Ala Jaza in the heart of New Orleans.