Good morning, New Orleans.

For over 300 years, the French Quarter has thrived as a mixed-use neighborhood where residents, businesses and the French Quarter Management District take steps to preserve its historic charm and active community.

This month, the district launched a new task force app that alerts responders within five minutes.

Thrive New Orleans—celebrating 18 years— trains local residents in green construction and stormwater management to boost energy efficiency and community infrastructure.

The nonprofit partners on projects such as Bourbon Street upgrades and tiny house placement to expand affordable housing and job opportunities.

EskewDumezRipple moved from 365 Canal St. and opened its new studio at 400 Lafayette St. in 2025 (15,298 sqft), earning WELL Platinum Certification for its sustainable design and flexible workspaces that reflect the firm's community focus.

SSE Steel Fabrication in Lower St. Bernard will launch a humanoid robot pilot program later this fall to perform fillet welding and address staffing shortages.

The initiative uses a robotics-as-a-service model that lets the family-owned firm test advanced technology (its first trial in a live shop).

Louisiana’s ports and logistics providers are gearing up for a surge in industrial projects as $100 billion in investments and additional prospects promise to boost activity in energy, petrochemicals, and manufacturing.

The sector will use AI rail-planning systems+ advanced software to move oversized equipment efficiently from port to project sites.

Some Decatur Street businesses have seen increased foot traffic after construction fencing was removed three weeks ago while others still suffer as the Sewerage and Water Board continues work (expected to finish by fall).

The local Tales of the Cocktail event (now 24 years strong) celebrated bar industry innovation after a week at The Ritz-Carlton from July 19 to 24.

It offered seminars, Spirit Awards and mentoring programs that built new opportunities for bartenders and local businesses.

Lake Pontchartrain’s water levels are extremely low today as northwest winds push storm surge out after Tropical Storm Bertha, exposing the seawall and shoreline; experts say this natural tide change (a result of the lake’s estuarine nature) does not harm local wildlife.

Louisiana WIC participants will begin using new EBT cards tomorrow that load benefits remotely + reduce required clinic visits to an initial appointment and annual review; they must set a PIN by calling the number on the card or using the myWIC app.

The Louisiana Department of Health reported 100 cyclospora cases on Thursday, with 6 hospitalizations and no deaths as cases spiked during the summer outbreak.

Health officials advise proper hygiene and thorough washing of produce to help prevent infection.

Al Patin, who began his career as a nurse in Lafayette, will take over as CEO of Ochsner South Shore Community Hospitals and Bayou Region in New Orleans on Monday.

He will lead eight hospitals serving communities from St. Mary Parish to St. Bernard Parish.

Food writer Ian McNulty explains happy hour hopping for summer dining in New Orleans.

He highlights paired deals in Uptown, Mid-City, and Downtown restaurants that offer tasty bites & cost-friendly outings for locals.

Saint defensive end Chase Young is riding a career wave as he fills a key leadership role for the Saints this season + He overcame past injuries and set a new mark with ten sacks last year.

The New Orleans Saints have extended wide receiver Chris Olave's contract for four years + up to $132 million with $90 million guaranteed following his career-best season.

The deal secures his role with the team through 2030.

The Saints are set to compete for the NFC South crown as they add free agents such as Travis Etienne Jr. and three wide receivers.

Coach Kellen Moore and quarterback Tyler Shough plan to boost the offense + tighten the defense in the upcoming season.

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.