Good morning, New Orleans.

Greater New Orleans, Inc. announced on Jun.

18 that Michael Hecht will remain CEO until end of 2026 + become CEO Emeritus in 2027 to support ongoing projects including the Louisiana International Terminal initiative. The board is now starting a search for a new president and CEO.

The Historic New Orleans Collection announces its 2026 New Orleans Antiques Forum, themed Material Belief: Objects of Faith, Spirit, and Tradition, scheduled for Sept.

7 (9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.), Sept. 8 (9:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.), and Sept. 9 (9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) at its venue.

Ochsner's STAR Summer Scholars Program marks its 20th year in New Orleans as 20 high school seniors will complete a free, four-week summer enrichment course in healthcare careers on June 26.

The program offers hands-on training and mentorship with healthcare professionals.

The Kenner Police Department shared drone footage showing deep flooding and stalled drivers after more than seven inches of rain hit the city on Thursday, Jun.

18 amid tornado-warned storms.

During overnight storms from Post-Tropical Storm Arthur, the S&WB experienced a 30- to 60-minute power lapse that affected drainage and tap water pumps—even though a $300M power complex is meant to prevent outages—and the pumps were restored by 7:30 a.m. with no impact on tap water service.

The New Orleans Redevelopment Authority’s Façade RENEW Plus Program is providing funds for property owners and small businesses to improve storefronts in New Orleans East and the Lower Ninth Ward.

Applications are accepted until July 1 and eligible candidates must register through WebGrants.

The Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-East sustained damage during Thursday morning's storm at its Franklin Avenue facility — engineers are assessing the collapsed wall while confirming no injuries and assuring that the flood system remains fully operational.

LSU Health Foundation named Elizabeth Eglé as its new Managing Director of External Relations, tasked with strengthening donor engagement and launching a corporate partnership program.

Her extensive fundraising experience, including raising over $40 million, supports strategic growth for LSU Health New Orleans.

Key-Key Live Performance

9:00 p.m. — Casa Honduras Restaurant #1 — Ticketed event — Experience a lively performance by Key-Key in an inviting restaurant setting.

Father's Fest 2026

2-8 p.m. — The Broadside — Free entry — Celebrate fatherhood with food, entertainment, and activities dedicated to dads making a difference.

Charmaine Neville Band Performance

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Ticketed event — Experience the vibrant sounds of Charmaine Neville, blending R&B, Jazz, and world rhythms in an electrifying performance.

Ilana Glazer Live!

7-10 p.m. — Joy Theater — College discounts available — Enjoy an evening of laughs with Ilana Glazer in the heart of New Orleans.

Dead Letter Office Concert

9-10:30 p.m. — Chickie Wah Wah — Tickets starting at $32.61 — Experience the energetic tribute to R.E.M. with hits and deep cuts alike.

Stooges Brass Band Concert

8 p.m. — Tipitina's — Free entry — Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Free Fridays Concert Series with an energetic performance from the Stooges Brass Band.

Kieko Komaki Duo Performance

4:30-8:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Check website for entry details — Experience the fusion of classical training and New Orleans jazz from Keiko Komaki.

Lawrence Sieberth & Christian Winther Concert

4:30-8:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Check the venue for ticket info — Enjoy a captivating evening of jazz with a versatile pianist and his talented collaborator.

Charmaine Neville Band Performance

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Tickets required — Experience the soulful sounds of Charmaine Neville in the vibrant New Orleans jazz scene.

ESSENCE Festival 2026

Time TBD — Caesars Superdome — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate culture, music, and community at one of New Orleans' premier events.