Good morning, New Orleans.

Mayor LaToya Cantrell was indicted by a federal grand jury on 18 felony counts for lying and misusing taxpayer money in connection to an alleged affair with her bodyguard—she missed a scheduled Amtrak kickoff event.

New Orleans police are investigating a homicide in Bywater after a man was found unresponsive on the 1200 block of Lesseps Street and confirmed dead by emergency responders (reported at 8:10 a.m. on Aug.

16).

New Orleans police continue the search for 12-year-old Bryan Vasquez—a nonverbal autistic boy last seen on Thursday at 6:33 a.m. in Village de l’Est wearing a diaper and needing medication while he walked in an unknown direction.

Georgia inmate Donnell Bluain, 59, was extradited to Jefferson Parish and will be arraigned on Monday on six counts of aggravated rape linked to 1986 cases in Metairie (the victims lived in and near Airline Park and Kenner).

New Orleanians are using social media — influencers like Mo Munchies, Ron Anthony Johnson, and Chipo Kandake share local food spots, cultural stories, and community challenges to support underrepresented voices and promote positive change in the city.

Their digital efforts build local pride and offer fresh perspectives on the heritage that defines New Orleans.

Amtrak's new Mardi Gras train started service from New Orleans to Mobile on Saturday with a festive inaugural ride that made stops in Bay St. Louis, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula—officials say the route will boost regional travel and connect our cities.

The $238 million project aims to carry 70,000 riders in its first year.

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.

Duo Dynamics Improv Comedy Workshop

3-5 p.m. — Big Couch New Orleans — Workshop fee applies — Explore the power dynamics and stakes in improv to enhance authenticity and create hilarious scenes.

Figgy Baby Concert

9 PM – 1 AM — No Dice — Ticket required — Experience the unique blend of traditional rap and modern sounds with Figgy Baby and friends.

Ellen Smith Concert

6:30-8 p.m. — Ellis Marsalis Center for Music — $15 General Admission, $45 Reserved, $3 for Seniors/SNAP — Experience the captivating voice of New Orleans native Ellen Smith live on stage.

Bonsai Workshop at Skeeta Hawk Brewing

6-8 p.m. — Skeeta Hawk Brewing — Check venue for cost — Create your own bonsai tree while enjoying craft brews with friends.