Good morning, New Orleans.

Heroes of New Orleans celebrated a $1M milestone on July 17 at its Algiers campus by hosting a Big Check Presentation Ceremony that raised funds to expand youth workforce training, mentorship, and family support services.

Local officials + community leaders made one of the region’s largest contributions to youth programs.

After Orleans Parish Sheriff's deputies evicted New Orleans Funeral and Cremation Service earlier this week, the Coroner's Office took custody of 28 remains amid an ongoing investigation, and owner Gary Lewis said he would contact affected families in the coming days to arrange refunds and return of the remains.

The International Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo will delay competition fishing due to Tropical Storm Bertha+ festivities at the rodeo pavilion will open at 5 pm Thursday in Grand Isle; the event continues through Saturday with food, vendors, and a $10,000 drawing.

Sybil Kein devoted her life to preserving Creole language and culture through poetry—her work is now housed in the Library of Congress and the National Archives.

Born in New Orleans, she documented local traditions from childhood until her passing in 2022.

Times-Picayune staffers claimed nine first-place prizes among 17 total honors at the 68th Press Club of New Orleans Excellence in Journalism Awards.

Their coverage of the Jan. 1 Bourbon Street attack earned top marks for print, general news, and breaking news (showing strong public service journalism).

Louisiana school districts are finalizing budgets as they await state guidance on when they might be exempt from paying temporary $2,000 teacher stipends if local raises reach that amount, Gov. Jeff Landry said, and BESE will meet from Aug.

17 to 19 to provide details.

Orleans Parish public schools ranked in the 99th percentile for reading growth and 98th for math, marking them as one of the fastest-improving large urban districts (a sign of rising success).

Superintendent Dr. Fateama Fulmore explained the tough choices needed to sustain the progress.

Tropical Storm Bertha strengthened Tuesday with 60 mph winds and is headed west toward southeast Louisiana.

The National Weather Service warns that storm-force gusts and heavy rainfall may cause coastal flooding (up to 2 to 4 ft) in local areas.

New Orleans officials reminded renters and landlords that rental units must keep bedrooms at 80° under Healthy Homes rules amid rising heat from Bertha.

Renters should first notify their landlord + call 3-1-1 if repairs are not made + verify that the property is registered.

The Louisiana Department of Health advised residents to stay indoors with air conditioning amid the record-breaking heat.

If you must be outside, drink water + get shade and rest, as officials stress that proper precautions can prevent heat-related illness.

The Louisiana Department of Health reported nearly 70 cases of explosive diarrhea caused by the Cyclospora parasite plus six people were hospitalized on Tuesday, July 21.

Over 1,600 cases have been linked to the parasite in more than 30 states, and another update is expected Thursday.

The X Games Championship will debut a new team concept that launches summer and winter action sports seasons, including an event in New Orleans.

The reboot debuts Friday in Sacramento and features top athletes like Nyjah Huston and Eileen Gu.

Tim Laughlin Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Check venue for entry fee — Experience master clarinetist Tim Laughlin as he brings New Orleans jazz alive with original compositions and fresh takes.

2026 X Games in New Orleans - Friday

4:00-8:30 PM — Caesars Superdome — Check event page for details — Experience three days of elite action sports at the MoonPay X Games Championship.

Alfred Banks Live Performance

7-9:30 p.m. — One Eyed Jacks — $17.15 GA — Experience a night of captivating music from Alfred Banks in the heart of New Orleans.

Stanton Moore Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — $TBD — Experience the exceptional drumming and vibrant personality of Grammy-winning musician Stanton Moore.

FLYLEAF with Lacey Sturm Concert

1 PM — House of Blues New Orleans — Tickets required — Experience an electrifying concert by Flyleaf featuring Lacey Sturm in a vibrant music venue.

New Orleans Suspects Live

9:00 – 10:30 PM — Tipitina's — Check their website for ticket prices — Experience a night of captivating music from the New Orleans Suspects at the iconic venue.

Satchmo Summer Fest

11:30 a.m. – 8 p.m. — New Orleans Jazz Museum — Free entry — Celebrate the legacy of Louis Armstrong with live music and food in an iconic cultural venue.

Greg Mendez Live Performance

9:00 – 10:30 PM — Siberia — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of indie-rock with Philadelphia's own Greg Mendez.

Hot 8 Brass Band Performance

Aug 9-10 — The Howlin' Wolf — Ticket prices vary — Experience the unique fusion of funk and brass from this Grammy-winning ensemble.

Billy Iuso Concert

8 p.m. — Tipitina's — Free entry — Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Free Fridays Concert Series with live music.