On Friday, the Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund voted 5-1 to cover the half-a-million-dollar bill so New Orleans can have its spot on the national stage as the countdown for the entire central time zone.
“This was going to be in agreement and a funding in partnership with the state. That has changed,” Board President Lisa Alexis said.
Of course, what Alexis is referring to is the fact that Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser pulled all $500,000 of the funding to stage the event after New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell said she didn t want Lauren Daigle to perform.
Oh, by the way, Daigle is the ambassador for Nungesseer s Tourism campaign, the Sunshine Plan. The Lt. Governor says that without Daigle and her fan base, he wasn t getting the best bang for the taxpayer s buck.
Rockinâ New Yearâs Eve will happen in New Orleans with new source of funding
Rockinâ New Yearâs Eve will happen in New Orleans with new source of funding By Kaitlin Rust | December 18, 2020 at 10:34 PM CST - Updated December 20 at 5:00 PM
NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) - The fate of Dick Clarkâs Rockinâ New Yearâs Eve in New Orleans fell into question after the mayor insisted Lauren Daigle should not be included in the production, critical of her recent performance at a mask-less praise and worship event.
âThis was going to be in agreement and a funding in partnership with the state. That has changed,â Board President Lisa Alexis said.
Singer says Nov. 7 French Quarter appearance was focused on lifting spirits, providing hope and encouragement
At a board meeting Friday of the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Fund, Cantrellâs administration and appointees on the board said that funding the local part of the national broadcast was an important way of highlighting the city.
They argued that the national New Year s Eve broadcast, which could have an even bigger audience this year if people decide to stay in for the holiday, will ensure viewers keep New Orleans in mind as they consider post-pandemic travel plans.
But the proposal drew fierce opposition from City Council member Kristin Gisleson Palmer, who argued it amounted to a rushed decision to spend money that would be better spent assisting local artists directly.