Good morning, Slidell.

Local clubs are gearing up for Jazz Fest by boosting staffing and promotions ahead of the summer slowdown.

They are taking extra measures to manage crowds & keep the festivities safe.

As Jazz Fest begins this week, a new children's book on late musical icon Allen Toussaint offers local families a chance to explore his influential life + enduring musical legacy.

After approving the sale on April 14, the city will finalize a $3.4 million deal with Textron Systems to buy its Gause Boulevard property — which will bring over 100 jobs, $5.4 million in renovations, and end a $700,000 annual cost — with work starting this year and finishing in 2027.

The Louisiana House approved a budget proposal today that doubles funding for the LA GATOR scholarship program, which helps low-income families access private schools.

Governor Jeff Landry said the expansion will offer more school choices while Senate President Cameron Henry urged a careful review of early results.

Louisiana voters will decide on teacher pay raises in the May 16 election; if approved, certified school employees will get up to $2,250 and uncertified personnel up to $1,125 starting next year — the funding will come from liquidated education trust funds to pay off teacher retirement debt.

Louisiana Senate approved a bill that would use opioid settlement funds for clinical studies on psychedelic-assisted therapy for veterans with PTSD and chronic depression.

The legislation awaits House review and could boost research at academic health centers in the region — a potential win for local healthcare innovation.

This month, a local donor effort spotlights support for transplant patients at Ochsner (a leading transplant center) during National Donate Life Month.

Community members are encouraged to join the Zest for Life fundraiser.

The Zurich Classic pro-am kicks off in just a few hours with planned road closures affecting local routes (residents are urged to plan alternate ways), adding excitement for cycling fans today.

Sean Fazende and Andre Johnson Jr discussed rising attention for Arizona State receiver Jordyn Tyson and unveiled the new Saints Mock Draft 3.0 on April 20 — giving local sports fans fresh insights into the Saints' prospects.

Karr alum Oliver Mitchell, Jr. produced a strong performance for Tulane’s Green Wave tempo offense during a spring scrimmage on Apr.

20 — his play marked a smooth transition from local high school football to college competition.

Northshore graduate Jervious 'Jerv' Epherson, owner of No. 10 Trucking, leads the Bayou Lacombe Cardinals to a 3-0 start today; he completed 52-of-81 passes for 986 yards and 13 touchdowns while balancing trucking duties (a key role for his team).

K-POP Warriors

4:30-6:00 p.m. — The Harbor Center — Tickets available — Experience a high-energy family show filled with vibrant K-Pop music and dance.

Business After Hours with Laser Image Marketing

5-7 p.m. — Laser Image Marketing — Free entry — Network and connect over innovative marketing strategies in a relaxed setting.