Good morning, New Orleans.

Officials said unhoused people seeking warmth sparked a two-alarm fire in a Tulane-Gravier home today, which destroyed the building and damaged three others nearby.

M C Bancshares announced a merger with DMMS Purchaser Inc. to build a regional banking franchise while retaining all current branches and strengthening customer service.

The deal is pending regulatory and shareholder approval and will have former IBERIABANK CEO Daryl Byrd lead in the first half of 2026.

New Orleans honored local drummer David Russell Batiste Jr. on Dec.

12 at Maple Leaf Bar (a birthday tribute) as his impact on funk and R&B shines from playing with the Batiste Brothers Band at age 6. His music shapes local bands and remains key to the city’s musical history.

The Downtown Development District and NOBIC completed a creative lighting installation along historic Canal Street using programmable lights to enhance NOBIC’s campus (designed by Studio West and installed by Frischhertz Electric).

DDD will add lighting improvements at Molly Marine Plaza next year to boost the BioDistrict’s identity.

Hut 8 Corp. signed a 15-year triple-net lease worth $7B for its River Bend data center campus in West Feliciana to boost AI infrastructure — the first data hall will complete Q2 2027 and the project is expected to add at least 265 local jobs.

Parents at St. Catherine of Siena welcomed students today in festive costumes ahead of winter break, with the carpool line featuring cheerful figures (such as Santa Claus, the Grinch, and Buddy the Elf) that spread holiday cheer at school.

Louisiana public libraries welcomed over 11 million visitors and held nearly 90,000 programs in 2024, with 2.28 million cardholders (representing 52% of the population) as noted by state Librarian Meg Placke.

The U.S. Department of Education has awarded Louisiana a $15 million grant to lead a five-year study on high-dosage tutoring for about 4,500 first and second graders at public and charter schools.

Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jenna Chiasson said the grant underscores the state’s progress in boosting literacy.

Pontchartrain Conservancy received a NOAA grant for its three-year CALPOP initiative that installs Litter Gitters and Booms at key New Orleans canals (Lake Pontchartrain, Bayou Bienvenue) to intercept trash.

The project began in November, partnering with SWBNO and local groups for litter prevention and recycling during Mardi Gras.

Today, JEDCO released Jefferson EDGE 2030, a five-year strategic plan focused on boosting economic growth, workforce development & quality-of-life improvements in the parish.

The plan was developed with input from over 90 community and business leaders and approved by both the JEDCO Board and parish council.

Trey Murphy III has led the Pelicans to average 24 points over five games as the team now regularly scores over 110 points.

The injured lineup has expanded his role — he plays on offense and defense — ahead of their home game with the Rockets today and contests with the Pacers and Mavericks.

LSU Interim Head Football Coach Frank Wilson will lead the Tigers in their bowl game on Dec.

27 before he joins Ole Miss as running backs coach; he announced his decision on Tuesday.

Hotel Burgundy Concert Featuring My Beloved

8-11 p.m. — No Dice — Ticket prices vary — Experience the unique sounds of My Beloved with their hit song 'None Prevailed'.

Indiana Pacers vs. New Orleans Pelicans

6:00-7:30 p.m. — Smoothie King Center — Ticket prices vary — Catch the thrilling NBA matchup as the Pacers battle the Pelicans.

Caroling in Jackson Square

7-8 p.m. — Jackson Square — Free entry — Experience a festive New Orleans tradition with holiday caroling under the stars.

Charmaine Neville Band Performance

7:30-11:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Check for cover charge — Enjoy the rich voice and warm personality of a beloved New Orleans entertainer.

Kermit Ruffins Concert

8:00-9:30 p.m. — Chickie Wah Wah — Tickets available — Experience the vibrant sounds of Kermit Ruffins, a tribute to New Orleans' jazz heritage.

The Soul Rebels Brass Band

11 PM - 2 AM — Le Bon Temps Roule — Cost Info Unavailable — Experience the vibrant sound of one of New Orleans' most contemporary brass bands blending various musical genres.

New Orleans Pelicans vs. Phoenix Suns

7-8:30 p.m. — Smoothie King Center — Check for ticket prices — Catch the Pelicans take on the Suns in an exciting NBA matchup.

Tuba Skinny Concert

6-9 p.m. — DBA — Admission varies — Experience lively performances of early jazz, ragtime, and blues from a renowned New Orleans street band.

Hot 8 Brass Band Performance

10:30 PM - 12:00 AM — The Howlin' Wolf — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a lively mix of funk and brass with the Grammy-winning Hot 8 Brass Band.

Charmaine Neville Band Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro — Ticket info not provided — Experience the soulful sounds of Charmaine Neville, a beloved figure in the New Orleans music scene.