Good morning, New Orleans.

The New Orleans Recreation Development Commission selected Patrice A.

Bell as its new CEO after a national search, and she will oversee a $22M budget + 217 employees to boost safe recreational programs for local children and families.

Local advocates are boosting urban agriculture and community markets after a cyclospora outbreak raised produce safety concerns.

Stores like G&C Meat Market (serving Upper 9th Ward) and community gardens are expanding access to fresh food in areas with limited supermarkets, aiming to build a stronger New Orleans food system.

Sean M. Duffy Sr., president and CEO of Big River Coalition, was named the Propeller Club’s 2026 Maritime Person of the Year for his leadership in advancing the Mississippi River channel deepening project.

He will be honored at the gala at Metairie Country Club on Thursday, Oct. 22.

SpaceX plans to build a private maritime shipping complex along Freshwater Bayou in Vermilion Parish featuring 3,500 feet of waterfront docking and 15.5 miles of heavy-haul roads that will connect Gulf docks to inland waterways.

Local restaurants and hotels are expanding Halloween festivities with ticketed parade parties and themed lunches throughout October.

Tujague’s hosts a watch party on Oct. 24 — while The Bower, Charles and Julia, and Virgin Hotels offer special menus and live shows along the Krewe of Boo route.

Loyola University New Orleans President Xavier Cole met Pope Leo in Rome this summer and discussed how the encounter reinforced the university's Jesuit mission and strong enrollment trends.

His remarks highlighted clear values that guide the school’s academic and community commitments.

Louisiana met its goal of 85,000 post-secondary credentials four years early and now holds a record 54% attainment among in-state residents.

Officials say efforts will continue to raise the rate to 60% by 2030.

College Track New Orleans opened its 10,000 sqft center at Tulane's downtown campus on Oct.

8 and now offers high school and college students academic, financial and career support connected with local mentors — expanding opportunities to build the city’s future workforce.

Louisiana will open applications Oct.

19 for $27 million in federal disaster aid for fishing businesses affected by hurricanes in 2020 and 2021—prequalification letters were mailed Oct. 9 and eligible applicants must submit documentation by Jan. 31 to receive direct payments.

Dr. Lauren Nguyen joined two local practices, Aslett Kurica Eye Center (AKEC) and Eyecare Associates (ECA), and began seeing patients Oct.

5 at locations in LaPlace, Metairie and New Orleans. The New Orleans native specializes in comprehensive eye care and management of diabetic eye diseases.

Fried Chicken Festvial is underway today in New Orleans, drawing local vendors and food lovers with live music and tasting stations — a celebration of unique flavors in a family-friendly atmosphere.

The Saints announced the passing of former coach Mike Ditka today at 86 — he led the team from 1997 to 1999 and left a lasting mark on the game with his bold moves.

His contributions remain a cherished part of our football history.