A boutique micro‑bakery called Dolce Amore has opened at 206 Lake Drive in Covington, serving dot cakes, gelato, macarons and savory bakes.

City leaders are weighing the first permit fee hike for Mardi Gras in decades to help cover rising safety and cleanup costs.

Omni Royal Orleans reopened La Riviera rooftop & pool bar with a new pool, private cabanas and expanded dining, the latest phase of a multi-year renovation. Day passes and cabanas are now available.

Slidell police served a high-risk warrant at a Motel 6 after a person tied to a New Orleans carjacking was reported to be hiding there. Sources say the suspect may have left before officers arrived.

Two men were arrested in St. Bernard this week after narcotics investigators found drugs, an allegedly stolen pickup and altered vehicle ID stickers. Authorities say charges include distribution and vehicle-alteration offenses.

Kenner police secured two residences in Woodlake and identified a vehicle of interest while assisting New Orleans detectives after a July 20 shooting.

An Orleans judge dismissed Bill Hammack's defamation suit against Sen. Royce Duplessis, saying Hammack failed to show likely success and ordering him to pay fees.

The Fifth Circuit voted Monday to rehear United States v. Squire en banc, vacating a June panel opinion and raising fresh questions about 18 U.S.C. §922(g).

A Heat Advisory is in effect today with highs near 96°F and heat‑index readings into the 100s. Spotty late‑day storms are possible; cooling centers are available.

Heat Advisory in effect Saturday, July 18: highs near 95°F and heat‑index readings into the 100s. Cooling centers and safety tips listed inside.

NOPD says Robert A. Shavers was arrested in connection with 11 business burglaries across the Fifth District, several at churches. Detectives are reviewing surveillance and seeking tips.

The Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office carried out a court-ordered eviction at New Orleans Cremation Service; the coroner has taken custody of human remains amid ongoing legal and regulatory action.

Mid‑90s today in New Orleans with weekend heat‑index values near 106°F. Little rain through Monday; city cooling sites are listed.