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New Orleans continues its strong momentum as a major film and TV production hub. As of early April 2026, the city is experiencing a significant surge in film and television activity, with Film New Orleans reporting substantial local economic spending in the first quarter—on pace for notable growth in 2026 compared to prior years.
In this article, we’ve curated the best ones so you can make it to the small and big screen. Take a look at the casting calls below, which are all in the New Orleans area.
Here Are The Latest New Orleans Casting Calls For Movies & TVs Filming Now
Here are the active casting calls and opportunities in the New Orleans area for March 2026, based on current listings from major casting sites, local news, and production announcements as of early March 2026.
Feature Film: Ally Clark (Conspiracy Thriller starring Viola Davis)
This production is filming in the New Orleans/Baton Rouge area in April 2026. It follows an investigator uncovering a dangerous conspiracy.
- Seeking: Paid background actors, including servers with real experience for upscale event scenes (men and women 18+).
- Filming Dates: April 6–17 (and specific server days April 17, 21–24).
- Rates: Adults $150/12 hours; minors $100/8 hours.
- How to Submit: Email clarkbrbg@caballerocasting.com (subject: NEW ORLEANS UNIT or specific for servers). Include name, age, contact, city/state, height/weight, and 2 current photos (headshot + full body). No AI, filters, hats, or sunglasses.
Paramount+ TV Series (Untitled/Background Scenes)
Multiple background calls for this series filming in New Orleans.
- Seeking: Background actors 18–28 for college students/Bourbon Street crowd; also real/current or former law enforcement for police officer roles (all types, 18+).
- Shoot Date Example: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 (and similar ongoing).
- Rates: $150–$250/12 hours depending on role.
- How to Submit: Email staff@caballerocasting.com with appropriate subject (e.g., “NOLA BOURBON ST”, “POLICE”, or “COLLEGE STUDENT”). Include name, age, phone, photos, and details.
Feature Film: Ally Clark
“ALLY CLARK” IS HEADED YOUR WAY TOO!
NOW CASTING – PAID BACKGROUND ACTORS 
Ally Clark is an upcoming conspiracy thriller filming in New Orleans, Louisiana from April 6th-17th, 2026!The film follows investigator Ally Clark as she uncovers a dangerous conspiracy involving an international conglomerate after a friend’s suspicious death.
Filming Location: NEW ORLEANS, LA
RATES:• Adults (18+): $150/12
• Minors: $100/8
TO SUBMIT:Email: clarkbrbg@caballerocasting.com
Subject Line: NEW ORLEANS UNIT
Include:
• Name
• Age
• Contact number
• City/State of residency
• Height/weight
Attach 2 CURRENT photos:• 1 Headshot (chest up)
• 1 Full body (head to toe)
If you are submitting more than one person, please submit all parties in one email and label each person’s photos with their name so we know who is who.
PHOTO NOTES
PLEASE SEND CURRENT PHOTOS THAT REPRESENT YOUR LOOK AS OF TODAY!
Please do not send photos with other people in them, we want to know who YOU are!
Please avoid sending AI GENERATED photos or anything filtered or professional.
No hats or sunglasses
Keep it simple: Stand in front of a solid wall and have a friend take the photos of you with a smartphone.
Feature Film: The Statement
1980s-set feature filming in New Orleans and Chalmette.
- Seeking: Paid background (18+), especially for scenes like wedding guests. Upscale clothing encouraged; local talent preferred.
- Filming: Late March into early April windows (check for any extensions).
- Rates: $150/12-hour day + $50 for fittings.
- How to Submit: thestatement@caballerocasting.com (subject: “General BG”). Include photos, availability, tattoos, etc.
Feature Film: A Christmas Kind of Love
- Project Details: Heartwarming, family-friendly Christmas movie written and directed by Louisiana filmmaker Bethany Ashton Wolf. Casting paid background actors of all ages (no experience required).
- Filming Dates: March 2026 through April 2026 (primarily in New Orleans/Northshore/Slidell area).
- Pay: $150/8 hours.
- Requirements: Local/MS talent only encouraged. Submit updated photos and contact info.
- How to Apply: Email CHRISTMASLOVE@Caballerocasting.com with subject “GENERAL BG.” Include name, age, city/state, and photos.
- Source: Caballero Casting and local outlets.
Theater/Play: “The Lament”
- Project Details: New play produced by Folk Riot: A Southern Arts and Culture Company.
- Rehearsals/Run: Rehearsals from March 10, 2026, through May 27, 2026 (flexible coordination with cast).
- How to Apply: Send video audition with name and part interest (details in local theater group posts on Facebook).
- Source: New Orleans theater community postings (e.g., New Orleans Onstage and NOLA Theatre Folk groups).
Other notes:
- Backstage.com lists several student/short films and projects shooting in March 2026 in New Orleans, such as “Loving Janie Eve” (shoots March 13-16) and others like crime drama shorts or horror shorts (e.g., shoots March 12-15 or 28-29). These often seek student/local talent for roles—check Backstage for specifics like “Big Trouble in the Big Easy” or “Familiar.”
- For more options, monitor Backstage.com (search New Orleans), ProjectCasting.com, or local Facebook groups like NOLA film/theater communities, as new calls post frequently.
- Always verify details directly, as availability and requirements can change quickly.
Final Word
New Orleans has a bunch of movies and TV series in the works and they all need extras. Are you curious as to which casting calls are out there for New Orleans productions?
General Tip: Keep eyes on Backstage, Project Casting, and NYCastings for pop-up extras calls—newborn babies and commercial walkers are hot right now, but deadlines are tight.
Do you want to appear in a major TV show or movie being filmed in New Orleans? There are several casting calls going on right now.
It’s easier than ever to appear in a TV show or big-budget movie, but first you have to get cast. New Orleans has several movies and TV shows that are holding casting calls and selecting people for roles.
As you can see, New Orleans is all lights, camera, action when it comes to movies and TV shows filming in the city.
The Crescent City is the fourth-largest moviemaking mecca in the United States, behind Los Angeles, New York and Atlanta.
Film production in New Orleans has created a huge demand for jobs in the film industry from crew to actors and producers. Stay with NolaFi.com for the latest casting calls and casting news in the industry.
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Music is one of the best cultural gifts one can enjoy. When it comes to Zydeco, there’s a deep history that echoes the very foundation of Louisiana’s past.
This article will tell you the rich history of Zydeco music. At NolaFi.com, we’re consistently bringing you the real stories, sounds, and soul of South Louisiana. Today we’re diving deep into one of our most joyful homegrown treasures: Zydeco music.
That high-energy, accordion-driven, rubboard-rattling sound that makes you stomp your feet, two-step, and holler “Laissez les bons temps rouler!” even if you’re just sitting on the porch.
The Roots: From ‘La-La’ to the Dance Floor
Zydeco didn’t just appear overnight – it grew straight out of the rich, mixed soil of Southwest Louisiana’s Creole culture.
Back in the early 1900s (and with roots going back even further to the 18th and 19th centuries), Black Creoles in rural areas around Opelousas, Eunice, and Lake Charles were playing what folks simply called “la-la” or la musique Creole.
It was house-party music – acoustic, raw, and perfect for dancing at Saturday-night gatherings. Think accordion (the heart of it all), fiddle, triangle or early percussion, and heartfelt Creole French lyrics about everyday life, love, hardship, and good times.
Influential early recordings came from accordionist Amédé Ardoin in 1929, who blended bluesy notes with Creole melodies and is often called the godfather of the sound.
The word “zydeco” itself comes from the French phrase “les haricots sont pas salés” (“the beans are not salty”) – a saying about tough times when you couldn’t even afford salt for your beans. Clifton Chenier famously turned it into the genre’s calling card with his 1960s hit “Zydeco Sont Pas Salés.”
The Birth of Modern Zydeco: The 1950s Explosion
After World War II, things changed fast. Many Creole families moved to Texas cities like Houston and Beaumont for oil refinery jobs.
There, in places like Houston’s Frenchtown, the music plugged in and got electrified. Creole musicians mixed their la-la traditions with R&B, blues, rock ‘n’ roll, and Caribbean rhythms they heard on the radio and jukeboxes.
Clifton Chenier (1925–1987) from Opelousas became the undisputed King of Zydeco. With his brother Cleveland on the frottoir (rubboard vest) and a full band featuring sax and guitar, he took the music out of house dances and into nightclubs, festivals, and records.
Hits like “Ay-Tete-Fee” and “Zydeco Sont Pas Salés” made him a legend. He even won a Grammy in 1983. Chenier is credited with popularizing the button accordion in a big way and creating the high-energy, dance-floor-filling style we know today.
Other pioneers from that golden era:
- Boozoo Chavis – His 1955 hit “Paper in My Shoe” is a zydeco classic.
- Rockin’ Dopsie, Queen Ida, and later Buckwheat Zydeco (Stanley Dural Jr.), who brought it to even wider audiences with his piano accordion and rock-infused energy. masterclass.com
The frottoir (that shiny washboard vest) was perfected around this time, giving zydeco its signature metallic rhythm that cuts right through the accordion and drums.Evolution & Today: Still Going StrongZydeco kept evolving.
In the ‘70s, ‘80s, and beyond, it absorbed funk, hip-hop, country, and more. Today you’ll hear artists like C.J. Chenier (Clifton’s son), Geno Delafose, Dwayne Dopsie, Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas, Chris Ardoin, Terrance Simien, and many others keeping the tradition alive while making it fresh.
It’s still deeply tied to Creole culture, family, faith, and hard-working Louisiana life – but it’s also gone global. You can hear zydeco in documentaries, on big stages, and right here at local dances.Where to Catch It in South Louisiana
- Original Southwest Louisiana Zydeco Festival in Opelousas (usually late August/early September) – the big one!
- NOLA Zydeco Fest in Slidell/Heritage Park
- Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival in New Orleans
- Thursday nights at Rock ‘n’ Bowl in New Orleans
- Plenty of weekend dances in Baton Rouge, Lafayette, and the bayou country. explorelouisiana.com
Look for it at festivals, trail rides, and community halls – it’s meant for dancing!
Zydeco isn’t just music – it’s a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the unique gumbo of cultures that makes South Louisiana so special. From those early house parties to packed festivals today, it keeps the spirit moving.
What’s your favorite zydeco song or memory? Have you two-stepped to Clifton Chenier or jammed with a local band? Drop it in the comments below – we might just feature it next!
Until then, crank up the accordion, grab a partner, and let that rubboard rattle. Laissez les bons temps rouler, y’all!
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If you enjoy ripe fruits and veggies, then the Crescent City’s farmers markets should be high on your list.
I don’t know where you live in the city, but he grocery store shelves have been pretty empty lately. You may be wondering where you can buy local fruits and vegetables from the farmers market in New Orleans.
What Is New Orleans’ Largest Farmers Market?
The largest farmers market in New Orleans is the Crescent City Farmers Market, which sells a number of quality fruits and veggies.
Farmers market food is not only healthy but is usually much safer for you as it doesn’t typically have the chemicals that are included in supermarket food.
Top Farmers Markets In New Orleans
French Markets in New Orleans offer a viable option that is different from many large retail commercial operations which usually have fruits and vegetables with pesticides and chemical fertilizers.
Let’s look at the top farmers markets in the New Orleans area.
Crescent City Farmers Market
2-48 French Market Pl, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 636-6400
Here’s what one customer says about the New Orleans French Market. “As always great Cajun dishes – po boys, red beans, crawfish etouffee – delicious! Great friendly service and French Quarter ambiance make this a must for every trip to New Orleans.”
Uptown Square Farmers Market
200 Broadway St Suite 130, New Orleans, LA 70118 | (504) 861-4488
Here’s what one customer says about Uptown Square Farmers Market. “Great place to have outdoor breakfast on Tuesday. Choose from muffins, burritos, croissants, fresh juices and coffee for just $1 if you bring a container. Then shop from a huge selection of produce from Louisiana and Mississippi farmers. The citrus is juicy and flavourful. Simply mouth watering.”
University Square, 200 Broadway St, New Orleans, LA 70118 | (504) 861-4488
Here’s what one customer says about the Crescent City Farmers Market. “What a great market with great vendors. Totally enjoyed buying yummy items, Fish, tomatoes, zucchini, fresh flowers, Creole tomato’s etc. Home made soups and other foods. My biggest complaint would be I’d like to see more different type of vendors. Love this market!”
Vietnamese Farmers Market
4861 Alcee Fortier Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70129 | (504) 254-0682
Here’s what one customer says about the Vietnamese Farmers Market. “It is a very traditional Vietnamese street market. Much appreciated to local authorities who granted permit to this kind of events.”
Marche Créole
1001 S Broad Ave, New Orleans, LA 70125 | (504) 521-7385
Marche Créole:is a community-based farmers market that sells quality produce for an affordable price. Check them out.
Final Word
New Orleans has a lot of great restaurants, but it’s also important to support local farmers markets. Not only do these small businesses rely on your cash, but they don’t typically take credit cards, although more of them take SNAP and other public benefit vouchers.
When you buy from farmers markets, you support the growing season in your local area. Fresh fruits and vegetables are vital in any metro area, and in New Orleans, it’s no different.
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Even though the big game—Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026—is taking place at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, New Orleans knows how to throw a party for the occasion.
The city that gave the world the Saints’ triumphant Super Bowl XLIV victory in 2010 still buzzes with football energy every February.
Where To Watch the 2026 Super Bowl
Whether you’re a local “Who Dat” fan or visiting the Big Easy, the Crescent City offers plenty of lively spots to catch the game, from high-energy sports bars with dozens of screens to classic neighborhood joints serving up oysters, po’boys, and cold beers.
Here are some of the top places across New Orleans to watch the Super Bowl, blending great views of the action with that signature NOLA flavor:
1. Manning’s Sports Bar & Grill (Warehouse District)
Located inside Caesars New Orleans (right near the Superdome), Manning’s is practically the gold standard for sports viewing in the city. With over 30 flat-screen TVs, a dedicated sports anchor desk, and memorabilia from the legendary Manning football family, it’s hard to beat for immersion.
Expect pub classics like wings and po’boys, plus plenty of beers on tap. It’s perfect if you want a polished, game-focused experience close to downtown action.
2. Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar (Multiple Locations, including near the Superdome)
Co-owned by Saints legend Drew Brees, Walk-On’s delivers an authentic Louisiana sports vibe with Cajun-inspired eats, pub fare, and tons of screens. The Poydras Street spot is especially convenient for game-day energy, and the chain’s reputation for big crowds and big fun makes it a go-to for Super Bowl Sunday. Arrive early—this one fills up fast.
3. Cooter Brown’s Tavern & Oyster Bar (Uptown/Riverside)
A true local favorite, Cooter Brown’s boasts an enormous beer selection (dozens on tap), fresh Louisiana oysters, and solid game coverage. It’s a laid-back spot with river views and a loyal crowd that knows how to enjoy football. If you’re craving raw bar snacks while cheering, this is your place.
4. Bruno’s Tavern (Uptown)
An Uptown staple on the corner of Maple and Hillary, Bruno’s offers a neighborhood feel with plenty of TVs and a spacious setup. It’s great for groups who want good food, drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere away from the tourist-heavy areas.
5. MRB (French Quarter)
Tucked in the heart of the French Quarter, MRB (short for “Mister B’s”) is a hidden gem with a large courtyard, multiple big screens, tropical cocktails, and New Orleans classics like gumbo and char-broiled oysters. It’s off the beaten path but delivers a fun, locals-meet-visitors vibe perfect for enjoying the game with a side of Vieux Carré charm.
6. Finn McCool’s Irish Pub (Mid-City)
Known for its passionate crowds and excellent pub grub, Finn McCool’s is a Mid-City favorite for sports viewing. It shines during big games with plenty of screens, cold pints, and that classic Irish pub energy. Great if you’re looking for a spot with character and strong community spirit.
7. The Bulldog (Mid-City)
With a massive beer list and solid game-day eats, The Bulldog in Mid-City is another reliable choice. It’s got TVs everywhere, a dog-friendly patio (when weather permits), and a lively atmosphere that suits Super Bowl parties.
8. Vieux Sports Saloon (French Quarter)
A newer addition to the French Quarter scene, Vieux brings modern sports-bar energy with big games on screens, New Orleans-inspired small plates, and an upbeat crowd. Ideal if you’re staying in the Quarter and want something fresh.
Bonus Options & Watch Parties
- For a more upscale experience, check out spots like Mambo’s or Rue Bourbon, which often host special Super Bowl watch parties with buffets, open bars, and balcony views.
- Dive bars and neighborhood joints like Bullet’s Sports Bar, Erin Rose, or Bayou Beer Garden offer more low-key, authentic NOLA vibes—perfect if you want to mingle with locals.
- Many places offer specials on wings, beer buckets, and game-day bites, so call ahead or check social media for reservations, especially for groups.
New Orleans might not be hosting the game this year, but the spirit is always here. Grab your black and gold (or your team’s colors), order some local eats, and soak in the second-line energy that makes watching football in the Big Easy unforgettable. Who Dat—or whoever you’re rooting for—let’s enjoy the game!
Live music is a part of New Orleans’ culture for sure. from jazz clubs to the city’s diverse bar scene, from historic cocktail bars to trendy craft beer spots. listening to lie music is a popular nighttime activity, especially in areas like the French Quarter and the Warehouse District.
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New Orleans winters are usually mild, but when a rare cold snap hits—like the freezes we’ve seen in recent years—our homes aren’t always built to handle prolonged subfreezing temperatures.
Pipes in crawl spaces, attics, garages, or along exterior walls can freeze solid, and when the ice expands, it bursts the pipe, leading to flooding, thousands in water damage, and major headaches. Burst pipes are one of the top causes of property damage during cold weather, but the good news is most cases are preventable with simple, low-cost steps.
Here in the Crescent City, where many older homes have exposed plumbing in uninsulated areas, preparation is key. Follow these expert-backed tips to keep your water flowing safely through any winter chill.
1. Keep Your Home Warm – Don’t Let the Thermostat Drop Too Low
Set your thermostat to at least 55°F (some experts recommend 60–65°F for extra safety), even when you’re away or sleeping. Lowering it to save on bills can backfire spectacularly if pipes freeze.
Consistent indoor heat keeps vulnerable pipes above freezing. If you’re leaving town during a cold forecast, leave the heat on—it’s far cheaper than repairs.
2. Let Faucets Drip – Moving Water Is Your Best Friend
When temperatures dip below freezing, open faucets to a slow drip (both hot and cold sides if possible). This is especially important for faucets farthest from the main water line or on exterior walls. The constant flow prevents ice from forming and building pressure.
A trickle uses very little water but can save your home from disaster.
3. Insulate Exposed Pipes – A Small Investment with Big Payoff
Wrap vulnerable pipes with foam pipe insulation sleeves, fiberglass wrap, or UL-listed heat tape/heat cable (which automatically activates in cold conditions).
Focus on pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces, attics, garages, under sinks, and where water enters your home through the foundation. Insulation is inexpensive—often just a few dollars per section—and widely available at local stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s in Metairie or the Eastbank.https://artifacts.grokusercontent.com/third-party-image
4. Protect Outdoor Connections and Cabinets
- Disconnect and drain garden hoses from outdoor spigots, then shut off the interior valve and insulate or cover the spigot with a foam cover. Frozen hoses can push pressure back into your home’s pipes.
- Open cabinet doors under kitchen and bathroom sinks to let warm air circulate around pipes.
- Keep garage doors closed if any water lines run through there.
- For crawl spaces or attics, ensure vents are closed and consider adding insulation to the space itself.
5. Know Your Shut-Off Valve and Be Ready to Act
Locate your home’s main water shut-off valve now (usually near the meter or where the line enters the house) and make sure everyone knows how to turn it off quickly.
In a freeze warning, test it gently. If you suspect frozen pipes (low flow or no water from a faucet), open the affected faucet fully before thawing to relieve pressure. Never use open flames to thaw—stick to a hair dryer, space heater, or warm towels starting near the faucet.
Extra Tips for New Orleans Homes
Our older shotguns, raised cottages, and homes with pier foundations often have pipes in crawl spaces that are more exposed than in northern builds. Check these areas annually, and consider heat tape for persistent problem spots.
Local resources like the Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans recommend insulating exposed pipes and wrapping with foam or rags if needed
If you’re in a flood-prone area, combine pipe protection with sump pump checks for any melting ice.Preventing burst pipes is mostly about planning ahead—insulate, drip, and heat consistently.
Final Word
These steps can save you from costly repairs and keep your family safe and dry. If a freeze is forecast, act early. Better a slightly higher utility bill than a flooded living room. Stay warm and prepared, New Orleans! If issues arise, call a licensed local plumber right away.
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One of the most fun experiences you can have in New Orleans is to stop through one of the city’s oldest establishments: the strip club.
Everybody may think that all the fun adult clubs are on Bourbon Street, and the notable tourist spots certainly hold their own, but some of the best strip clubs are located elsewhere in the city. Keep reading and we’ll show you.
Here Are The Best Strip Clubs In New Orleans
If you enjoy great music, stiff drinks and curvy ladies, you’ll want to plan a visit to one of those go-to strip clubs when travelling to New Orleans.
Visions Men’s Club
4000 Downman Rd. New Orleans, 70126
Heres’s what one customer says about Visions Men’s Club. “fun club, awesome ambiance, and hot dancers – i’m in love with Violet! what a smokeshow – she made me feel right at home.”
Larry Flynt’s Hustler Barely Legal Strip Club
423 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 571-6340
Here’s what one customer says about Larry Flynt: “My girlfriend and I spent a few hours here last night. Employees were great, girls were talented, gorgeous and super sweet.
Shout-out to Brielle. You made my girlfriend’s night (and mine too).”Showcase Gentleman’s Club
1915 N Broad St, New Orleans, LA 70119 | (504) 940-5022
Here’s what one customer says about Showcase. “ Great gentleman’s club I had a blast at my birthday party there great great time thanks.”
The Penthouse Club
727 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 524-4354
Here’s what one patron says about the Penthouse Club. “The most beautiful and classy club that anyone could have the pleasure of visiting. The women and the atmosphere are incomparable and it is truly a magical place with the best reputation in New Orleans. First class experience is always provided to those that can afford it, and I’ve never had a better time in a club environment such as this. Literal models everywhere, so much talent and beauty. Need I say more?“
She She’s
9000 Chef Menteur Hwy # M, New Orleans, LA 70127 | (504) 241-0380
Here’s what one customer says about She She’s: Better than the places on bourbon where you can’t touch anything i seen alot of beautiful women on 2$ Tuesday no lap dances was 2$ but drinks was didn’t really have 1 i got singles from the bar though i would say a couple girls was a little pushy saying to get more money from the ATM but for the most part if you threw 1 dollar they would say thank you i seen dances was 40 3 for 90 and slow day alot of them were at the bar not really coming to you unless you go talk to them or throw money on the stage loved the darkskin chick with th
Hunk-O-Mania
940 Elysian Fields Ave, New Orleans, LA 70117 | (504) 324-2397
Here’s what one woman says about Hunk-O-Mania: “I booked the VIP table at this place for my sister’s Bachelorette party and it was worth EVERY PENNY! The men are so sweet and consent kings! They always asked before doing anything wild (like picking you up in the air) and they were extremely HOT!!”
Rick’s Cabaret
315 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 524-4222
Here’s what one customer says about Rick’s Cabsret. “ Best adult club on Bourbon, beautiful women, and friendly staff. Everyone was having fun. I don’t typically go to men’s clubs but this was worth making an exception.”
Final Word
Are you searching for a way to have some adult fun in the New Orleans? The strip club scene in the city Is one you might not be as familiar with. Don’t worry, you can learn quick around here.
If you just want an agency to take you to all the top strip clubs, you can’t go wrong with Stripper King.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Stripper King: “My first time in Nola required that I have the best time I could possibly have. My group told me to use Stripper King to find out which strip clubs in town were the ones that I should be going to. The customer service was great and we had the best time. Thank you so much.”
Strip clubs are just one way to have a good time in New Orleans. The city has a top-notch restaurant scene and beautiful parks you can visit.
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As temperatures dip and holiday gatherings bring families closer together, health officials are reporting a sharp rise in influenza cases across Louisiana, with New Orleans feeling the impact.
The state is among those with “very high” flu activity, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and local experts warn that a mutated strain dubbed the “super flu” by some is driving much of the surge.
Superflu Surges in Louisiana, Elsewhere
Louisiana has seen flu-related emergency room visits more than double in recent weeks, with over 3,500 reported for the week ending December 13 alone.
Infectious disease specialists at LSU Health New Orleans and Tulane University say the dominant strain this season — influenza A(H3N2) subclade K — emerged after this year’s vaccine was formulated, leading to a partial mismatch that may result in more infections and potentially severe symptoms.
“This subclade K variant is fueling about 90% of cases nationwide and is particularly worrisome because H3N2 strains often hit harder, especially in children and the elderly,” said Dr. Fred Lopez, an infectious disease professor at LSU Health.
Local pediatricians, including those at Children’s Hospital New Orleans and Tulane, report packed wards with unvaccinated kids experiencing intense illness.While the term “super flu” has gained traction in headlines, experts clarify it’s still seasonal influenza — just more evasive and widespread this year due to its mutations.
Common Symptoms to Watch ForFlu symptoms typically onset suddenly and can feel like being “hit by a truck.” This year’s dominant strain presents similarly to past seasons but may feel more intense for some:
- High fever or chills
- Severe body aches and muscle pain
- Persistent cough
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Extreme fatigue
- Runny or stuffy nose
- In children, vomiting, diarrhea, or dizziness from dehydration
Doctors note that vaccinated individuals often experience milder cases, recovering at home, while unvaccinated patients are more likely to require hospitalization.
Why Now? Cooler Weather and Holiday Risks
As New Orleans sees milder but cooler days — with highs in the mid-70s this weekend before a potential drop early next week — people are spending more time indoors, facilitating spread. Holiday travel and gatherings are expected to amplify transmission.
Dr. John Schieffelin, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Tulane, emphasizes that low adult vaccination rates (under 50% nationally) are contributing to the outbreak.Prevention and Treatment TipsHealth officials urge residents to take action:
- Get vaccinated: It’s not too late — the shot still protects against severe outcomes, even with the mismatch.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash hands frequently, cover coughs, and stay home if sick.
- Seek early treatment: Antivirals like Tamiflu can shorten illness if started within 48 hours of symptoms.
- Test if needed: At-home flu/COVID tests can help distinguish illnesses.
High-risk groups — including children, seniors, pregnant people, and those with chronic conditions — should contact a doctor promptly if symptoms appear.
For the latest updates, visit the Louisiana Department of Health or CDC websites. Stay safe, New Orleans — flu season is here, but awareness and precautions can make all the difference.
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The proposed $82.7 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery’s (WBD) studios and streaming assets by Netflix, announced on December 5, 2025, represents one of the largest media mergers in history.
Valued at $27.75 per share in a mix of cash and stock, the deal would fold HBO Max (with nearly 130 million subscribers) and Warner’s vast content library—including franchises like Harry Potter, DC Comics, and Game of Thrones—into Netflix’s ecosystem, creating a streaming titan.
Read up on these Netflix alternatives.
Netflix-WBD Deal Faces Legal Scrutiny
While Netflix positions this as a way to “fuse innovation with century-old storytelling,” it has ignited immediate concerns about reduced competition in an already consolidating entertainment industry.
Regulators in the U.S. and Europe are poised to scrutinize the transaction, with the Clayton Act serving as a primary legal tool for potential intervention.
What is the Clayton Act?
The Clayton Act, enacted in 1914 as an amendment to the Sherman Antitrust Act, is a cornerstone of U.S. antitrust law designed to prevent mergers and acquisitions that could substantially lessen competition or create monopolies before they fully materialize.
Unlike the broader Sherman Act, which targets existing anticompetitive behavior, Section 7 of the Clayton Act focuses on prospective harm, empowering the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Department of Justice (DOJ) to block deals that threaten market dynamics.
Violations are assessed through a “reasonableness” standard, considering factors like market concentration, barriers to entry, and potential effects on consumers, competitors, and innovation. If the Netflix-WBD deal runs afoul of this, it could be enjoined by a court, forcing divestitures or outright abandonment.
Key Ways the Deal Could Violate Section 7 of the Clayton Act
To understand the risks, consider how regulators might apply Clayton Act principles to this merger. The core allegation would likely center on the deal’s potential to entrench Netflix’s dominance in subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) streaming, a market already strained by cord-cutting and content wars. Here’s a breakdown:
Clayton Act Factor Potential Violation in Netflix-WBD Deal Supporting Evidence/Concerns Market Concentration (e.g., Herfindahl-Hirschman Index or HHI) The merger could push Netflix’s U.S. SVOD market share above 30-40%, crossing the DOJ/FTC’s “presumptively illegal” threshold of 30% under merger guidelines. Pre-merger, Netflix holds ~20-25% globally; adding HBO Max’s ~10-15% U.S. share would create a combined entity controlling over a third of subscribers. Rep. Darrell Issa warned in a November 2025 letter to the DOJ and FTC that this exceeds the 30% “presumptively problematic” level, potentially harming consumers by reducing choices. nbcnews.com Analysts note the HHI (a measure of market concentration) could surge by over 200 points, triggering strict scrutiny. thebignewsletter.com Lessening of Competition By acquiring a direct rival (HBO Max), Netflix would eliminate head-to-head competition for premium content, allowing it to raise prices, hoard exclusives, or degrade service quality without fear of subscriber churn. Warner’s library would become unavailable to competitors like Disney+ or Amazon Prime Video, foreclosing rivals’ access to must-have IP. Sen. Mike Lee highlighted this as a “serious competition question,” more acute than deals in the past decade, potentially stifling innovation in content creation. cnn.com A government official echoed that adding HBO Max to Netflix’s “market dominance” would “stifle competition,” akin to Google/Amazon probes. timesofindia.indiatimes.com Monopolization Risks The combined firm would control ~50% of premium scripted content production, giving Netflix undue leverage over Hollywood talent, theaters, and downstream markets like advertising and licensing. This could create barriers for indie creators and exhibitors, turning the merger into a “recipe for monopolization.” Experts call it a “straightforward challenge under the Clayton Act,” as it consolidates power over storytelling, potentially leading to fewer theatrical releases and job losses for professionals. thebignewsletter.com +1 Cinema United labeled it an “unprecedented threat” to theaters. reuters.com Vertical Integration Concerns Netflix’s ownership of Warner’s studios would deepen vertical control—from production to distribution—potentially discriminating against rival platforms by withholding content or favoring its own algorithms, harming downstream competition in video consumption. Former WarnerMedia CEO Jason Kilar argued it’s “the most effective way to reduce competition in Hollywood.” reuters.com This echoes past DOJ blocks like AT&T-Time Warner (initially challenged on similar grounds). These factors align with the DOJ/FTC’s 2023 Merger Guidelines, which emphasize “serial acquisitions” (Netflix’s history of smaller content buys) and the cumulative impact on nascent markets like streaming. Critics, including Sens. Elizabeth Warren, Richard Blumenthal, and Bernie Sanders, have urged the DOJ to probe for “political favoritism,” while anonymous filmmakers called for “the highest level of antitrust scrutiny.”
Paramount, a losing bidder, has accused WBD of bias and may lobby the Trump administration to intervene, citing ties to figures like ex-DOJ official Makan Delrahim.
The Path to Challenge and Potential Outcomes
If challenged, the DOJ or FTC would file suit in federal court, seeking a preliminary injunction to halt closing (expected Q3 2026).
Netflix argues the deal enhances subscriber value and U.S. production, but regulators could demand remedies like content licensing mandates—similar to EU expectations of “access remedies” without a full block.
A worst-case scenario: outright blockage, as in the DOJ’s successful suit against Microsoft’s-Activision deal (later settled). Political winds under the Trump FTC/DOJ could sway outcomes, with Republicans like Issa and Lee amplifying GOP concerns over Hollywood consolidation.
In sum, the deal’s Clayton Act pitfalls hinge on its threat to competitive vigor in streaming and content creation.
While not guaranteed to fail, the merger’s scale invites rigorous review, potentially reshaping—or derailing—Hollywood’s future. As one analyst put it, this isn’t just a buyout; it’s a “noose around the marketplace.”
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If you’re contemplating driving to your local supermarket in Baton Rouge for Thanksgiving, you’ve got some last-minute decisions to make.
This article will tell you everything you need to know about the Thanksgiving Day store hours for the major supermarket chains around New Orleans.
Is Walmart, Rouses, Winn-Dixie, Costco, Whole Foods And More Open For Thanksgiving?
On holidays we know that grocery store hours tend to change. Some stores are closed, while some adjust their hours to remain open just a while.
For the latest information, you should call your local grocery store to see if they have changed their hours on any particular day.
What Are Costco’s Holiday Hours?
Costco usually stays open from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. daily. For Thanksgiving, the store will be closed.
What Are Rouses’ Holiday Hours?
Rouses says it will open at 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Thanksgiving, the store will be closed after that but will open for Black Friday
Sam’s Club Holiday Hours
Sam’s Club has altered its operating hours during the holidays, including on Thanksgiving, The store will be closed so that store associates and other workers can enjoy the day with their families.
Here are Sam’s Club’s holiday hours in Atlanta:
- Nov. 27: Closed – (Thanksgiving Day)
Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s will be closed on Thanksgiving in New Orleans.
Is Winn-Dixie Open on Thanksgiving?
Winn-Dixie will be closed on Thanksgiving in New Orleans.
Is Walmart Open On Thanksgiving?
Walmart will be closed on Thanksgiving Day. Aside from Christmas, it’s the only day of the year when Walmarts all over are shut down.
Walmart Holiday Hours:
- Nov. 27: Closed (Thanksgiving Day)
Whole Foods Holiday Hours
Whole Foods is operating on modified hours during the holidays, including on Thanksgiving,
Here are Whole Foods holiday hours in Atlanta:
- Nov 27: 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. (Thanksgiving Day)
What’s Open On Thanksgiving In Baton Rouge?
In addition to major groceries stores, the following stores are also open for Thanksgiving:
- Big Lots
- CVS
- Dollar General
- Dollar Tree
- Family Dollar
- Rite Aid
- Starbucks
- Stop & Shop
- Walgreens
- Wegmans
Final Word
Baton Rouge has become a destination city in the last decade. Up the road, you’ll findAmerica’s premier convention city, New Orleans, which is known for its many festivals, parties and events. Is the city safe? Of course. That also means that Nola is also a top travel destination.
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As Baton Rouge continues to mourn the loss of former LSU Tigers wide receiver Kyren Lacy, who tragically passed away in April 2025, his on-field legacy at Louisiana State University stands as a testament to his talent, grit, and explosive playmaking.
Transferring to LSU from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette ahead of the 2022 season, Lacy quickly became a cornerstone of the Tigers’ high-powered offenses, amassing impressive stats over three seasons and earning accolades that highlighted his growth into one of the SEC’s premier pass-catchers.
Career Snapshot at LSU
Lacy, a Thibodaux native standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 213 pounds, played in 39 games for the Tigers from 2022 to 2024, starting 24 of them. In that span, he recorded 112 receptions for 1,692 yards and 16 touchdowns—figures that underscore his evolution from a rotational player to a go-to target in LSU’s pass-heavy schemes.
His college career totals across all schools reached 154 catches for 2,558 yards and 26 touchdowns, but it was in purple and gold where he truly shone, contributing to two of the nation’s top-scoring offenses.
Year-by-Year Breakdown
2022 (Sophomore/First Year at LSU)
Lacy hit the ground running in his Tigers debut, appearing in all 14 games with two starts. He hauled in 24 passes for 268 yards, averaging 11.2 yards per catch, though he didn’t find the end zone that season. His longest reception—a 45-yard grab—came in the Citrus Bowl against Purdue, signaling the big-play potential that would define his LSU tenure.
2023 (Junior)
Emerging as a key weapon in Brian Kelly’s explosive attack—which led the nation in scoring (45.5 points per game) and total offense (543.5 yards per game)—Lacy played all 13 games, starting 10.
He exploded for 30 receptions, 558 yards (18.6 yards per catch), and a team-high-tying seven touchdowns.
Standout performances included two 100-yard games: 111 yards and a score on four catches against Auburn (highlighted by a 57-yard touchdown) and 101 yards with two TDs on five receptions versus Georgia State. Lacy’s clutch gene shone in big moments, like a 26-yard grab to tie Alabama at 21-21 and a 29-yard touchdown against Ole Miss.
2024 (Senior):
Lacy’s final season was his finest, earning him Second-Team All-SEC honors from the Associated Press and a spot at the 2025 Senior Bowl.
Starting all 12 regular-season games, he led the SEC with nine receiving touchdowns on 58 catches for 866 yards (14.9 yards per reception, 72.2 yards per game).
He notched three 100-yard outings, including a career-high 111 yards on five receptions in an overtime thriller against Ole Miss—capped by a 25-yard touchdown pass in OT to seal the win.
Other highlights: a three-TD explosion (32, 6, and 7 yards) in the home opener against Nicholls, a 12-yard score versus Vanderbilt, an 18-yard TD at Oklahoma, and a 12-yard strike against South Carolina.Achievements and LegacyBeyond the numbers, Lacy’s impact was profound.
He led the SEC in receiving touchdowns during his senior year and was instrumental in LSU’s 2023 Heisman Trophy campaign for quarterback Jayden Daniels, as the Tigers’ top three receivers (including Lacy) combined for 187 catches, 3,304 yards, and 38 scores.
Lacy also graduated in December 2024 with a degree in sport administration and earned a nod to the 2022 SEC Academic Honor Roll.
Off the field, Lacy was remembered for his work ethic and community ties, often mentoring younger Baton Rouge athletes.
His five career 100-yard games at LSU—three in 2024 alone—cemented him as a deep-threat specialist with sure hands and route-running savvy, drawing NFL scouts’ eyes before his untimely passing.
“Kyren wasn’t just a receiver; he was a game-changer who lit up Tiger Stadium and made us all proud,” said LSU head coach Brian Kelly in a statement reflecting on Lacy’s contributions.
As the Tigers move forward into 2025, Lacy’s highlights continue to inspire, a bright spot in a story cut far too short.
