Good morning, New Orleans.

Glass Half Full, a 5-year-old startup founded by Tulane seniors, recycles glass into sand for coastal restoration at its new $5 million facility in Chalmette—workers recently pumped recycled sand into Bayou Bienvenue while the company secured contracts from Jefferson Parish and delivered its first order of cullet to a manufacturer. The business continues expanding its operations across the Gulf Coast even as it works to overcome rising costs.

New Orleans police arrested 38-year-old Joshua Stewart—accused of fatally shooting 34-year-old Armand Williams during a July 9 incident in Little Woods—and booked him at Orleans Parish jail on a charge of second-degree murder.

New Orleans has secured the No. 2 rank in Travel + Leisure’s 2025 World’s Best Awards as readers praised the city's dining, culture — and history.

This recognition shows the city's strong appeal as a top travel destination.

Records show that in May, SWBNO intentionally pumped thousands of gallons of raw sewage into storm drains near Almonaster Avenue in New Orleans East after a broken sewer main flooded the roadway, which sparked a state investigation as vacuum trucks could not handle the volume—fecal bacteria levels far exceeded safe limits.

A disorganized disturbance moved inland from the Gulf on Thursday and dumped heavy rain on New Orleans—parish officials opened sandbag stations and closed city offices as flood risks continue today with two to three inches expected in the city and six to eight inches along the coast. The National Weather Service and National Hurricane Center warned that several local intersections face a high risk of flooding.

Texas Petroleum Investment Company has caused 54 oil spills in Louisiana since 2019, including a catastrophic incident in Iberia Parish that released 190,000 barrels of oil.

In 2021, the firm was tied to 13 spills releasing nearly 18,000 barrels and in 2025 it reported six spills with 290 barrels & state officials have logged 23 spills so far this year.

Louisiana officials canceled the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion due to rising costs & will replace it with a smaller coastal restoration project that includes new elements.

The decision follows years of study and evaluation of the $3 billion project.

City officials and residents will meet on July 19 at St. Josephine Bakhita Catholic Church in the Upper Ninth Ward to plan long-term flood mitigation using data and community input—this meeting launches a months-long engagement that will guide a $1.3 million project to address chronic flooding across 296 city blocks. The event aims to collect input for a Community Priorities Report that will shape future drainage and green infrastructure improvements.

Plaquemines Parish leaders advised residents to clear catch basins and secure loose items as heavy rain is expected through Sunday with some areas receiving up to 10 inches and the worst impacts occurring between Thursday and Friday.

Officials reported that five sandbag locations opened yesterday at 10 a.m. — residents are urged to call local authorities if they need assistance.

Tales of the Cocktail

Various times — The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans — Price varies — Explore the evolution of the cocktail industry at this premier global drinks conference.

Oddities and Curiosities Expo

10:00 – 11:30 AM — New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center — Cost info not specified — Explore a showcase of strange vendors and artists from across the country.

Charmaine Neville Band Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Ticketed event — Experience high-energy live jazz infused with R&B and world rhythms from the daughter of a legendary saxophonist.

Tales of the Cocktail

12-2 p.m. — GW Fins — $125 per person — A fiesta of flavors featuring the finest tequila, seafood, and live music from Mariachi en Nueva Orleans Los Viajeros.

Uptown Jazz Orchestra Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Ticket prices vary — Experience the vibrant sounds of the Uptown Jazz Orchestra led by Grammy winner Delfeayo Marsalis.

Paella Night on The Balcony

6-8:30 p.m. — Tableau by Dickie Brennan & Co. — $50 per person — Savor delicious Louisiana Seafood Paella and a mini Burnt Basque Cheesecake at this festive evening event.

Paris Avenue with The Quickening

9 PM - 12 AM — Tipitina's — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant night of live music at this iconic New Orleans venue.

Creed Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Smoothie King Center — Last-minute ticket offers available — Experience the musical energy of Creed live in New Orleans.

MINI KISS Performance

9 PM – 12 AM — No Dice — $32.30 — Experience the electrifying KISS-inspired performance from the World Famous MINIKISS rock band.

ASHS 2025 Annual Conference

All day — Hyatt Regency New Orleans — In-person attendance only — Explore cutting-edge horticulture innovations and network with industry professionals.