Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 29th of August.
Good morning, New Orleans.
Twenty years ago, thousands sought shelter in the Superdome when Hurricane Katrina struck and fierce winds tore off sections of its roof on August 29th, 2005.
General Manager Doug Thornton led $336 million in repairs funded by FEMA, Louisiana, and the NFL — a move that turned the battered dome into a symbol of New Orleans’ recovery.
City Park Conservancy has unveiled City Park 2050, a long-term plan to upgrade trails, restore lagoons, and enhance accessibility in New Orleans' largest greenspace.
Thousands of community members provided input—helping shape a vision that balances preserving the park's history with future growth.
Bryan Vasquez, a 12-year-old nonverbal autistic boy from New Orleans East, disappeared on Aug.
14 and was found dead in a canal on Aug. 26—officials report he suffered blunt force trauma and drowned after an alligator attack.
New Orleans marks the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina today with several memorial events that include healing ceremonies, a second line parade in the Lower 9th Ward, museum exhibits at the Presbytère and UNO library, and a panel discussion with local leaders—honoring the storm’s impact and ongoing recovery.
STEM NOLA, a nonprofit founded by Calvin Mackie after Hurricane Katrina, has grown into a national model for interactive STEM education and recently held Rocket Day at the University of New Orleans—where kids experienced hands-on science.
Sen. Bill Cassidy secured $3 million to expand the program statewide and a new $50 million facility will break ground soon in New Orleans East—creating more opportunities for local students.
Louisiana dropped its defense of a congressional map with two Black districts and asked the Supreme Court to not consider race in redistricting.
The court will hear new arguments on Oct. 15—this decision may change Voting Rights Act protections.
Since Hurricane Katrina in 2005, New Orleans has built stronger levees and formed partnerships with nearby parishes and utility providers to restore power, water, and communication faster—steps meant to protect its most vulnerable residents.
Director Collin Arnold said the city’s emergency plans today are much improved although rapid storm intensification still challenges response efforts.
Louisiana has reported 22 cases of flesh-eating Vibrio vulnificus—four of which have caused deaths and one additional death occurred in a Florida resident—with most infections linked to warm Gulf waters.
Health officials warn that people with open wounds or chronic conditions must take care when swimming or handling seafood to prevent severe illness.
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.
Black Joe Lewis & the Honeybears
9:00 – 10:30 PM — Tipitina's — Tickets starting at $34.41 — Experience a blend of desert blues and psychedelic rhythms that ignites the stage.
HGF Pediatric Endocrine Education Day
1:30-6:30 p.m. — 210 State St, New Orleans, LA — Free entry — Dive into expert discussions on pediatric endocrine disorders with top specialists and catered meals.
Mr. Sipp Live Performance
7:30-10:30 p.m. — New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market — Tickets required — Experience Mr. Sipp's electrifying guitar performances filled with high energy and soulful tones.
The Bends Live Performance
7-9:30 p.m. — House of Blues New Orleans — Ticketed entry — Experience the energetic sounds of The Bends as they revive early 2000s garage rock.
Bemo Rouge
10:00 – 11:30 PM — House of Blues New Orleans — Ticket prices vary — Experience a lively night of music in the heart of New Orleans.
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