Hey Monday, what’s up? Definitely not the water pressure, as I learned this morning. More on that in a minute. But let’s be thankful for some things as we begin the week — things like the New Orleans heat taking a short vacation, bringing in some fall-like temperatures, or perhaps you’re feeling blessed that the Saints took a W handsomely on Sunday. Maybe even just the simple pleasures of casting a vote this weekend got you elated for elections. But if you got behind the wheel this morning and noticed traffic is up, and then noticed water pressure is down, it’s because a lot happened over the weekend in the Crescent City. That’s what we’re here for. Here’s what you need to know and some things to give your mind a break after the 9 to 5. – Clint
Under Pressure: Boil Water Advisory
When water pressure drops, we all know what is likely coming ahead at this point — a boil water advisory. On Saturday, a water main burst and a geyser flooded parts of Uptown. The break happened near the area of Lowerline and Panola streets. An initial boil water advisory was issued Saturday and canceled Monday morning. Hours later, the advisory was issued again for the same area. The area bound by Carrollton Avenue, Interstate 10, the Pontchartrain Expressway, Calliope Street and the Mississippi River (basically all of Uptown) will have to boil water until we hear from the Sewerage and Water Board.
Poll Dance: Election Results
Election Day was Saturday, and voters shook it to the polls for a slew of races to decide on, one of which is the Louisiana governor’s race. Gov. John Bel Edwards, a Democrat, was forced into a runoff election with Republican Eddie Rispone. Rispone bested fellow Republican Rep. Ralph Abraham, capturing the second-place position. The runoff election will be held Nov. 16. Tap here for full election results.
Hard Rock Hotel Partially Collapses: 2 Dead, 1 Missing
A massive portion of the Hard Rock Hotel under construction on Canal Street at Rampart Street collapsed Saturday morning, killing two people and injuring more than 19 others. One person is missing, according to city leaders who addressed the media Monday morning. The cause of the collapse is under investigation. The threat of further collapse is leaving a number of streets closed and canceled future performances of “Wicked” at the neighboring Saenger Theatre. Streetcar and bus lines are also affected. Read more about the partial collapse here. | Check here for a list of road closures.
Bird Emergency Hatching, Report Says
A report published by the National Audubon Society says more than two-thirds of bird species in North America are at risk of extinction if the current pace of climate change continues. According to a report from NOLA.com, the study assessed the vulnerability of 604 bird species under three scenarios: an increase in global mean temperature of 1.5 degrees Celsius, 2 degrees Celsius and 3 degrees Celsius. Nearly 400 species could lose more than 50 percent of the habitat they need to survive by 2080.
Feeling Blessed: Pope Mentions #Saints On Gameday
The Saints whooped the Jaguars on Sunday, and perhaps the Who Dat Nation should thank divine Twittervention. Pope Francis tweeted a few words of prayer Sunday in recognition of newly canonized saints. However, when the pontiff added the hashtag #Saints, Twitter added a fleur-de-lis New Orleans Saints logo to his tweet, turning his words into support for the Black and Gold. The Saints were blessed with a victory, defeating the Jaguars 13-6.
Quick Hit Headlines
- Times-Picayune clock tower comes down during demolition (NOLA.com)
- National World War II Museum opening Hall of Democracy (WWLTV)
- New airport terminal: A Taste of Leah Chase’s Food and Art (New York Times)
- ‘Wicked’ performances canceled for remainder of run at Saenger (WDSU)
- City Planning Commission votes against increasing jail capacity (The Lens)
What’s Happening This Week
Monday, Oct. 14
Chef Aarón Sánchez will be cooking his famous albondigas taco and signing copies of his new memoirs Monday evening. Ticket prices include a copy of the book. Tacos, snacks, and specialty cocktails inspired by “Where I Come From” will also be served throughout the night.
Tuesday, Oct. 15
NOLA Nonprofit Boot Camp | 5:30 – 9 p.m. | 6100 Canal Blvd. | $10
This boot camp is designed to help nonprofit directors, board members, leaders and volunteers build solid foundations and address gaps in funding and other resources for their organization. Topics will be addressed through a combination of experienced speakers and panels along with time for Q&A. Light food and drink will be provided.
Wednesday, Oct. 16
30th Annual New Orleans Film Festival | 6 p.m. | Various venues
Movie lovers rejoice! The New Orleans Film Festival gears up for its 30th-anniversary from October 16-23, 2019 with 230+ new films, fantastic parties, Q&A’s with filmmakers and actors, pitch competitions, and much more.
Thursday, Oct. 17
‘Sleepy Hollow’ in the Garden | 7 p.m. | NOMA Besthoff Sculpture Garden | Tickets start at $15
This immersive outdoor production of the infamous “Tale of the Headless Horseman” is part classic, and part comedy — well, until the cast starts mysteriously disappearing.
Friday, Oct. 18
Blues and BBQ Fest | 5 – 8:30 p.m. | Lafayette Square Park | Free to attend
This festival features two stages of music, a dozen vendors of the best BBQ in the region and a huge arts market. Houma native and blues guitarist Tab Benoit is closing out the show Friday night.
