Good morning, New Orleans.

Tulane University will host its Future of Energy Forum Sept 10-12 on its uptown campus - more than 100 global energy leaders will share ideas on new tech, rules and power systems.

The free event will include sessions on topics like AI in energy, critical minerals, nuclear power and grid modernization with speakers from Shell, Entergy, ExxonMobil and Boston Consulting Group.

Crescent City Auction Gallery will hold a two-day auction featuring over 560 antiques, collectibles, and pop culture artifacts from the estate of late hotelier Joe Jaeger Jr on Aug.

15–16, with sessions starting at 10 a.m. at its headquarters on St. Charles Ave — the first sale in a series of auctions from his private collection.

Trader Joe’s will open its first New Orleans store on Aug.

14 along Tulane Avenue after a brief ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9 a.m.—the 9,683-square-foot shop will create 80 jobs mostly for local hires and will donate unsold products to nonprofits daily. The new store is part of efforts led by Feil Organization to revitalize the area.

Elmer Chocolate, a 170-year-old Ponchatoula business known for its Gold Brick Eggs and Heavenly Hash Eggs, was purchased by the Florida-based Hoffman Family of Companies and the Nelson family will keep running it—aiming to preserve its legacy while unlocking new growth opportunities.

Federal SNAP cuts risk ending New Orleans schools’ automatic free meal program+ as lower enrollment may force schools to lose the Community Eligibility Provision, putting low-income students at further risk.

School officials warn that these changes could lead to more meal debt and extra burdens for families.

Jefferson Parish Schools are starting this school year by hiring at least 70 teachers after a shortage of 140 last year—Reach University has enrolled 78 candidates in a debt-free apprenticeship program that offers on-the-job certification and requires new hires to serve for three years while partnerships and raises attract more applicants.

Louisiana officials are monitoring Tropical Storm Erin, which formed Monday morning, and models show it will strengthen into a hurricane as it tracks west — residents should prepare for shifting conditions.

Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple toured four homes in the 9th Ward where the Fortify Homes Program has backed over 5,400 properties since 2023 by offering up to $10,000 in grants and new tax breaks for hurricane-resistant roofs—nonprofit partners help low-income homeowners cover extra costs. The program aims to reduce roof damage by up to 70% and may soon expand tailored solutions to meet regional risks.

The Uptown Jazz Orchestra featuring John Gray

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Cost info not provided — Experience an evening of smooth jazz sounds with the Uptown Jazz Orchestra.

Billy Iuso Live Concert

9 p.m. — Tipitina's — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant performance as part of the Free Fridays Concert Series at this iconic music venue.

Dinner Detective Interactive Show

6-9 p.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel New Orleans Airport — Tickets from $59.99 — Experience a hilarious murder mystery dinner show where you might become a prime suspect.

Fishbone Concert

6:30-8:00 p.m. — House of Blues New Orleans — Tickets available — Experience the legendary fusion of funk and rock with Fishbone.

Sorrenteaux Boards Wellness Workshop

6:30-8:00 p.m. — Sorrenteaux Boards — Ticket required — Assemble a fresh fruit and vegetable board while exploring mental wellness insights.

20th Annual MaseFest Birthday Bash

4-8 p.m. — The Broadside Pavilion — Free entry — Celebrate Mason's 20th with live music from BANDOG and delicious food from Nikkei Izakaya kitchen.

Uptown Jazz Orchestra Performance

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 award-winning trombonist Delfeayo Marsalis.

Louisiana District PCC Day Carnival Celebration

11 AM – 2 PM — Holiday Inn New Orleans-Downtown Superdome by IHG — Free entry — Celebrate Louisiana District PCC Day with games, food, and lively entertainment at the carnival.

Irma Thomas Live Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Orpheum Theater New Orleans — Tickets vary — Experience the soulful sounds of the 'Soul Queen of New Orleans' in a captivating live performance.

The Fixx Concert

8-10 p.m. — House of Blues New Orleans — Ticket prices vary — Experience the innovative sound of one of the most influential bands from the MTV era.