Keith Thomas narrowly defeated Cedric Richmond to be named King Zulu for Mardi Gras 2027. The John F. Kennedy band director will lead the Zulu parade on Feb. 9.

Adelaide Wisdom Benjamin, a longtime patron whose endowments helped steady New Orleans’ orchestra, died May 30 at 93. Her name now names the LPO’s music-director post.

Willie Puckett Jr., a key figure in New Orleans bounce, died May 3 at 50. He helped popularize the "Doggie Hopp" and "trip out" dances that shaped local club culture.