The Times-Picayune 04-17-2025

Stateofficialsspar over carinsurance

Temple says legislation is setting him up to take thefallfor rising rates

BY TYLER BRIDGES

Staff writer

Ahigh-stakes legal and political battle between Gov.Jeff Landry and Insurance Commissioner TimTemple —one that affectseveryonewho has car insurance —played outina House committeeroom at theState Capitol on Wednesday

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After hearing from Landry,the House Insurance Committee sided with him by overwhelminglypassing a measurethat he said would allow Temple to reject excessive rate increases for car insurance.

Temple spoke after Landry and told committee membersthatHouseBill 576 would give the commissioner the authority to act capriciously in ruling whether to approverateincreases, a

measure.

Eight of his aides were in thesmall committee room while Landry spoke in favor of the bill.

Underlying the three-hour hearing on HB576 is the political fight over who will take the heat for car insurance ratesthat are driving angry voters to give an earful of complaints to Landry,Temple and state legislators. Under some measures, Louisiana has the highest carinsurance rates in the country

move he said would ultimately harm the state.

The governor said passing the bill is so important to him that he would call legislators into aspecial session to consider it again if they reject the

Asked after thehearing what would happen if the bill passes and Temple doesn’tstop thecontinued climb in insurancerates, Landry replied, “The people could hold him accountable.” Temple, asked afterward whether he thought the governor was trying to set him up to take theblame, referred to arecentinterviewthatLandry gave to conservative talk showradio host Moon Griffon.

ä See INSURANCE, page 5A

intentionwas to help residentssaveonbills

BY SAM KARLIN Staff writer

About ayear after Louisiana’sutility regulator movedtoset up along-sought program to help residents reduce energy use and save on theirbills,the Public ServiceCommissionvoted Wednesday to abruptly change course and end the program Acomplexvote by thecommission’sthree Republican members —JPCoussan, Eric Skrmetta and Mike Francis —ends astatewide program to put millions toward energy efficiency in homes and businesses, especially for low-income residents. Staffwas in the process of standing up the programwhenthe commissionvoted to endit Wednesday at ameeting in Many,south of Shreveport. Instead, the commission, which oversees electric utilities, appears poised to double down on a program that allowsthe elected commissioners to steer millions in energy efficiency improvements to government officials and offices in their districts. The money goes to sheriffs, schools, parish councils and other local facilities. It wasnot immediately clear whetherthe

See PSC, page 4A

honorees

BY BEN MYERS Staff writer

Seekingmore say in theproject’s rollout, the NewOrleans City Councilhas tableda request for public funding for the NOLA Walk of Fame effort, sparking the ire of local icon Percy “Master P” Miller,its architect.

CityCouncilmembers at aMonday committee meeting asked for adetailed budget and other information about theproject, which aims to layaHollywood-style trail of plaques along Canal Street to honor notable New Orleans’ artists, entrepreneurs and philanthropists.

Council members Freddie King III and Eugene

ä See COUNCIL, page 4A

STAFF PHOTO By JAVIER GALLEGOS

Gov. Jeff Landryspeaksduring aHouse Insurance Committee meetingatthe State Capitol on Wednesday.

STAFF FILEPHOTO

of Insurance Tim

in opposition to

that would givehis office more authority

Weinstein’s lawyers seek to move him from jail

NEW YORK Nine jurors were picked Wednesday on the second day of jury selection in Harvey Weinstein’s #MeToo rape retrial.

At the same time, the disgraced movie mogul’s lawyers asked a judge to allow him to spend his nights at a New York City hospital instead of jail for the duration of the trial, citing his many health issues including cancer and problems walking that require the use of a wheelchair.

The jurors were picked from a group of 25 prospective jurors who spent the past two days answering questions from prosecutors and Weinstein’s lawyers to gauge their ability to be impartial. They are the first jurors picked after none were chosen Tuesday Jury selection will resume Thursday with a fresh group of about 80 prospective jurors to begin the screening process anew Judge Curtis Farber has said a total of 12 jurors and six alternates will be picked.

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs seeks two-month delay

NEW YORK — Attorneys for hiphop producer Sean “Diddy” Combs asked a federal judge in New York on Wednesday to delay his May 5 sex-trafficking trial by two months so they can better prepare a defense

The lawyers said in a letter to Judge Arun Subramanian that prosecutors have been slow to turn over some potential evidence for review, making it difficult to be ready in three weeks. Prosecutors oppose the request, the lawyers said. A spokesperson for prosecutors declined comment.

Subramanian wrote in an order responding to the delayedtrial request that he will address the issue during a hearing scheduled for Friday

Pending the conference, the judge wrote, both sides should proceed as if the early May trial remains in place.

‘Fireball’ lights up Mexico City skies

MEXICO CITY About 3 a.m. on Wednesday, a bright object, initially appearing to be a meteorite, lit up the skies over Mexico’s capital, stretching across plains, volcanoes and small towns

Videos of a ball of fire shooting over the Latin American country and dissolving in a burst of light over Mexico City struck awe in many — and quickly became the fuel for memes circulating on social media.

Soon, photos of the apparent meteor edited with cartoon characters and political jokes flooded the internet.

But scientists across Mexico were quick to note that the object rocketing across the skies was not a meteorite; it was a bolide. Bolides, defined by NASA as fireballs, are “exceptionally bright meteors that are spectacular enough to be seen over a very wide area.”

Colossal squid caught on camera for first time

A colossal squid has been caught on camera for the first time in the deep sea by an international team of researchers steering a remotely operated submersible.

The sighting was announced Tuesday by the Schmidt Ocean Institute.

The squid filmed was a juvenile about 1 foot in length at a depth of 1,968 feet in the South Atlantic Ocean. Full-grown adult colossal squids, which scientists have uncovered from the bellies of whales and seabirds, can reach lengths up to 23 feet almost the size of a small fire truck.

CORRECTION

An article in Tuesday’s edition about proposed changes to the state Department of Transportation and Development misquoted state Rep. Ryan Bourriaque as saying, “We can acknowledge that the department is unfunded.” Bourriaque actually said, “We can acknowledge that the department is underfunded at times.” The Times-Picayune regrets the error

Judge finds cause for contempt

Trump administration violated orders to turn around planes

BY ALANNA DURKIN RICHER and MICHAEL KUNZELMAN Associated Press

WASHINGTON A federal judge on Wednesday said he has found probable cause to hold the Trump administration in criminal contempt of court and warned he could seek officials’ prosecution for violating his orders last month to turn around planes carrying deportees to an El Salvador prison.

The ruling from U.S District Judge James E. Boasberg, whom

President Donald Trump has said should be impeached, marks a dramatic battle between the judicial and executive branches of government over the president’s powers to carry out key White House priorities.

Boasberg accused administration officials of rushing deportees out of the country under the Alien Enemies Act last month before they could challenge their removal in court, and then willfully disregarding his order that planes already in the air should return to the United States.

The judge said he could hold hearings and potentially refer the matter for prosecution if the administration does not act to remedy the violation. If Trump’s Justice Department lead-

ership declines to prosecute the matter, Boasberg said he will appoint another attorney to do so.

“The Constitution does not tolerate willful disobedience of judicial orders especially by officials of a coordinate branch who have sworn an oath to uphold it,” wrote Boasberg, the chief judge of Washington’s federal court.

The administration said it would appeal.

“The President is 100% committed to ensuring that terrorists and criminal illegal migrants are no longer a threat to Americans and their communities across the country,” White House communications director Steven Cheung wrote in a post on X.

The case has become one of the

Israeli official: Troops will remain indefinitely

BY ISAAC SCHARF, WAFAA SHURAFA and SAMY MAGDY Associated Press

JERUSALEM — Israel’s defense minister said on Wednesday that troops will remain in so-called security zones in the Gaza Strip, Lebanon and Syria indefinitely remarks that could further complicate talks with Hamas over a ceasefire and hostage release.

Meanwhile, Israeli strikes across Gaza killed another 22 people, according to local health officials, including a girl who was not yet a year old. The girl’s mother, who was wounded, embraced her daughter still wearing a bloodied blue dress, before she was taken for burial.

Israeli forces have taken over more than half of Gaza in a renewed campaign to pressure Hamas militants to release hostages after Israel ended their ceasefire last month. Israel has also refused to withdraw from some areas in Lebanon following a ceasefire with the Hezbollah militant group last year, and it seized a buffer zone in southern Syria after rebels overthrew Syrian President Bashar Assad in December

“Unlike in the past, the (Israeli military) is not evacuating areas that have been cleared and seized,” Defense Minister Israel Katz said in a statement.

The military “will remain in the security

zones as a buffer between the enemy and (Israeli) communities in any temporary or permanent situation in Gaza — as in Lebanon and Syria.”

The Palestinians and both neighboring countries view the presence of Israeli troops as military occupation in violation of international law

Lebanese president Joseph Aoun said that Israel’s continued presence in some areas in Lebanon was “hindering” the Lebanese army’s full deployment as required by the ceasefire negotiated with Israel.

Two Israeli drones strikes on Wednesday in southern Lebanon killed two people, the health ministry said The U.N said Israeli strikes in Lebanon have killed more than 70 civilians since the ceasefire took effect in November

Hamas has said it will not release dozens of remaining hostages without a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a lasting ceasefire.

“They promised that the hostages come first In practice, Israel is choosing to seize territory before the hostages,” the main organization representing families of the hostages said in a statement. “There is one solution that is desirable and feasible, and that is the release of all the hostages at once as part of an agreement, even at the cost of ending the war.”

10 guards charged in fatal beating of New York inmate

BY MICHAEL HILL and DAVE COLLINS Associated Press

UTICA,N.Y Ten New York prison guards were charged Wednesday in connection with the fatal beating of a 22-yearold inmate last month — including two charged with murder It’s the second time a group of correctional officers in the state was indicted for a death behind bars this year

The indictment says several guards severely beat Messiah Nantwi, a prisoner at the Mid-State Correctional Facility, who was hospitalized and died on March 1 “due to massive head trauma and numerous other injuries to his body.” Three guards are accused of plotting to lie about Nantwi having a makeshift knife in his room.

In addition to the 10 guards, six other correctional officers agreed to cooperate with the investigation, a special prosecu-

tor overseeing the probe said. Two will plead guilty to felonies and four will plead guilty to misdemeanors, Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick said.

Fitzpatrick is also the prosecutor in the death of Robert Brooks, who was fatally beaten late last year at the Marcy Correctional Facility just across the street from the Mid-State prison. Six guards have pleaded not guilty to murder charges in Brooks’ death and other prison employees have been charged.

The Utica-area facility was one of many state prisons struggling to function during a three-week wildcat strike by guards upset over working conditions, which forced the governor to send in National Guard troops to maintain operations. Incarcerated people and their advocates complained that services and conditions deteriorated during the walkout.

most contentious amid a slew of legal battles being waged against the Republican administration that has put the White House on a collision course with the federal courts. Administration officials have repeatedly criticized judges for reigning in the president’s actions, accusing the courts of improperly impinging on his executive powers. Trump and his allies have called for impeaching Boasberg, prompting a rare statement from Chief Justice John Roberts, who said “impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision.”

Boasberg wrote that the government’s “conduct betrayed a desire to outrun the equitable reach of the Judiciary.”

1 dead, 9 wounded

in Russian strikes

BY ILLIA NOVIKOV Associated Press

KYIV, Ukraine — Russian glide bombs and artillery struck a city in southern Ukraine on Wednesday, killing one person and wounding nine others as Moscow forces continued daily attacks across the country

The city of Kherson was struck with glide bombs on Wednesday morning, and when rescue teams arrived at the scene, Russian forces launched an artillery barrage, said the region’s head, Oleksandr Prokudin. “This is a deliberate tactic by Russia to hinder the rescue of the injured and harm doctors, rescuers, and police,” he said. The attack damaged a sports facility, a supermarket, residential buildings and civilian vehicles, Proku-

din added. The strike on Kherson followed other deadly attacks in recent days. On Palm Sunday, two Russian ballistic missiles hit the northeastern city of Sumy near the Russian border, killing 35 people and injuring more than 100 others in the deadliest attack on Ukrainian civilians this year The Russian military said that the strike targeted a gathering of senior military officers, but did not offer evidence. In Sumy on Wednesday, mourners buried 11-year old Maksym Martynenko one of two children killed in the attack — and his parents Nataliia and Mykola. Their three caskets were open for final farewells at a church in the city center before the bodies were taken to the family’s village for burial in the same plot.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JEHAD ALSHRAFI

A Palestinian woman reacts Wednesday as others carry the body of a relative killed in an Israeli airstrike in preparation for burial at Shifa Hospital in Gaza City

California sues to stop Trumptariffs

BY SOPHIE AUSTIN Associated Press/Reportfor America

SACRAMENTO, Calif. California Gov.Gavin Newsom sued the Trump administration on Wednesday,challenging the president’sauthority to impose sweeping tariffs that have set off aglobal trade war. The lawsuit argues that President Donald Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to impose tariffson Mexico, Canada and China or a10% tariffonall importsis unlawful. Theact enables a president to freeze and block transactions in response to foreign threats but doesn’t allow the president to adopt tariffs, the suit says The lawsuit, which was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, also argues that enacting such tariffs requires

approval from Congress. Trump has offered many justifications for increasing tariffs, including that they are designed to spur U.S. manufacturing and stop the flow of illicit fentanyl into the country. California’smove followsrapidlychangingtariff plans by the Trump administration.

AWhite Houseofficial slammed the lawsuit and defendedthe tariff plan.

“Instead of focusing on California’s rampant crime, homelessness, and unaffordability,GavinNewsom is spending his time trying to block President Trump’s historicefforts to finally address the national emergency of our country’spersistent goods tradedeficits,” White Housespokesperson Kush Desai said. “The entire Trump administrationremains committed to addressing this national emergency that’s decimat-

ing America’sindustries and leaving our workers behind with every tool at ourdisposal, from tariffs to negotiations.”

Newsom, aDemocrat, said the tariffs have essentially resulted in inflated costsand could bring billionsofdollars in damage to California, which hasthe largest economyand is the largest importeramong U.S. states. Many businesses have told state officialstheywill start passing thecostoftariffs to consumers. The state budget could takea major hitwith the tumblingstock market because California disproportionately relies on income tax revenues from capitalgains —mostly moneymadefrom investments andstocks— from its wealthiest taxpayers. The additional costsfrom tariffs couldalsohamstring the state’sabilitytoplan for the future and payfor services, the suit states.

Trump joinsJapan tariff talksas U.S. seeksdeals

BY DARLENE SUPERVILLE, MARI YAMAGUCHI and JOSH BOAK Associated Press

WASHINGTON President

Donald Trump on Wednesday inserted himself directly into trade talks with Japanese officials, asignofthe highstakes forthe United States after its tariffs rattled the economy and caused the administration to assure the public that it would quickly reachdeals.

The Republican president attended themeeting alongside Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick,top economic advisers with acentral role in his trade and tariff policies.

“Hopefully something can be worked out which is good

(GREAT!) for Japan andthe USA!” Trump wroteinasocial media post ahead of the meeting Afterward, he posted: “A GreatHonor to have just metwiththe Japanese Delegation on Trade. Big Progress!”

The president’schoice to get directly involved in negotiations points to his desire to quickly finalizea slew of trade deals as China is pursuing its own set of agreements. It’s an open test of Trump’sreputation as adealmaker as countries around theworldseek to limit the potential damage unleashed by his import taxes.

The sweeping tariffs that Trump announced on April 2 triggered panicinthe financial markets and generated

recession fears, causing the U.S. president to quickly put apartial 90-day hold on the import taxes and increase his already steep tariffs against China to as much as 145%.

The pause temporarily sparedJapan from 24% across-the-board tariffs, but there continues to be a10% baseline tariffand a25% tax on importedcars, auto parts, steel and aluminum exports. With Japan charging an averagetax rate of 1.9% on other countries’ goodsand having alongstanding alliance with theU.S.,the talks on Wednesday are acrucial indicator of whether the Trump administration can achieve ameaningful deal that reassures themarkets, American voters and foreign allies.

Kennedy: Autism casesclimbing

BY AMANDASEITZ Associated Press

WASHINGTON Healthsecretary Robert F. Kennedy

Jr.warned that childrenin the U.S. are being diagnosed with autism at an “alarming rate,” promising on Wednesday to conduct exhaustive studies to identify any environmental factorsthat may cause the developmental disorder His call comes the day after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a report that found an estimated 1in31U.S. children have autism, amarked increase

from 2020.

Autismexperts applaud effortstofurtherunderstand thecondition,but saythe numberofreported cases began to balloon as the definition of the condition expanded to include mild cases.

“Autismdestroys families,” Kennedysaid. “More importantly, it destroys ourgreatest resource, which is our children.These are children whoshould notbesuffering like this.”

Kennedydescribedautism as a“preventable disease,” although researchers and scientistshaveidentifiedgenetic factors that are associ-

ated with it. Autism is not considered adisease,but a complexdisorderthataffects the brain. Cases range widely in severity,with symptoms thatcan include delays in language, learning, and social or emotionalskills. Some autistic traits can go unnoticed well intoadulthood.

Those who have spent decades researchingautism have found no single cause. Besides genetics, scientists have identified various possible factors, including theage of achild’sfather,the mother’sweight, andwhether she haddiabetes or was exposed to certain chemicals.

Md.senator meetswith El Salvador vice president

BY YOLANDAMAGAÑA, MARYCLARE JALONICK and MATT BROWN Associated Press

SAN SALVADOR Maryland

Sen. Chris VanHollen traveled to El Salvador on Wednesdayand met with the country’svicepresident to push for therelease of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, aman whowas sent there by the Trump administration in March despite an immigration court order preventing his deportation.

VanHollen said at anews conference in San Salvador that Vice President Félix Ulloasaidhis government could notreturn Abrego Garcia to the United States and declinedtoallowVan Hollen to visithim in thenotorious gang prisonwhere he is being held.

“Why is the government of El Salvador continuing to imprison aman where they have no evidence that he’s

committed any crime and they have not been provided anyevidencefrom the United States that he has committed any crime?” Van Hollentold reporters after the meeting. “Theyshould just let him go.”

VanHollen’strip became aflashpoint in the U.S.

TheTrumpadministration sharply criticized it, while Democrats have rallied around Abrego Garcia.

President Donald Trump and Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele said this week that they have no basis to send him back, even as the U.S. SupremeCourt has called on the administration to facilitate his return.

Trump officialshavesaid that Abrego Garcia, aSalvadorancitizen who was living in Maryland, has ties to theMS-13 gang, buthis attorneys say the governmenthas provided no evidenceofthatand Abrego Garcia has never been

charged with any crime related to such activity

“Wehave an unjust situation here,” said VanHollen, amember of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

“The Trumpadministration is lying about Abrego Garcia. The American courts have looked at the facts.”

Trump officials reiterated Wednesday that he would notbereturnedtothe United States. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt heldanewsbriefing with the mother of aMaryland woman, Rachel Morin, who was killed by afugitive from El Salvador in 2023.

“It’sappalling and sad that Sen. VanHollenand the Democrats applauding histriptoElSalvador today are incapable of having any shredofcommon sense or empathy fortheir own constituents and our citizens,” Leavitt said at the briefing.

ASSOCIATEDPRESS PHOTOBySALVADOR MELENDEZ

Maryland Sen.Chris VanHollen speaksWednesday to the press in La Libertad, El Salvador.Van Hollen traveled to the countrytopush for the release of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, aSalvadoran citizen whowas living in Maryland and deported to El Salvador by the Trumpadministration.

Green also criticized project organizers for failing to involve the council in honoree selections and other planning. They said they wouldconsiderthe organizers’ $500,000 request for city-controlled fundingonce they received more details.

“I can’tsay anythingother than that happens alot with the City Council. Theagency that funds city projects is many times the last to be incorporatedinto initiatives that need city funding,” Greensaid. SyritaSteib, of the nonprofit Operation Restoration, which is handling administrative functions for the Walk of Fame, saidMonday that Miller “understands the need to have the City Council involved moving forward.”

But in an interview with WVUE television on Wednesday,Miller seemed to contradict that as he accused the council of obstructing the projectwhile also claiming he didn’tneed members’support

“You don’tneed no sort of say, because Ipaidfor it,” Millersaid, referring to council approvals for the project.

“You are either apartofthe problem or apart of the solution, and we need more solution-driven people,” Miller said.

The request has putthe council and Miller,anentrepreneurand rap mogul who Mayor LaToya Cantrell tapped in August to serve as the city’scultural ambassador, squarely in each other’scrosshairs.

Miller’sNOLA Walk of Fameendeavor launched last year,and four plaques for cultural icons —rapper Lil’ Wayne, chef Leah Chase, basketball star Avery Johnson and businessman Todd Graves —have been laid so far

But the effort as of Monday sought $500,000 in funding from the Wisner Trust, acity-controlled fund made up of the annual proceeds from 38,000 acres of oil-rich land aroundPort Fourchon that the late philanthropist Edward Wisner donated to the city more than a century ago ACivil District Courtjudge in

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commission would attempt to set up adifferent type of program that allows residents to take advantage of more energy efficiency programs,orstick withthe same system that it has had for years. But the move is awin for utilities like Entergy and Cleco,whose leaders have argued against effortsto set up the energy efficiency program led by athird-party administrator. Theutilities want to continue a“quick start” program to deliver more basicupgrades, aprogram they oversee. It’sablow for advocates who have lobbied for years for the commissionto set up amore substantial program. The commission enacted the initial initiative more than adecade ago but punted for years on taking the next step until former Republican Commissioner Craig Greene helpedbring it across the finish line last year.Last year,Coussan replaced Greene, who retired. Louisiana residents pay low rates for electricity,but electric billsare high —and unaffordable for many —in large part because they use more energy than residents in any other state. The Louisiana legislative auditor, in arecent report, noted other states have taken stepsto promote energy efficiency to lower rates.

Francis, who brought the

2022 issued apreliminary injunction freezingWisner Fund distributions, except in limited circumstances with approval from both thecourt andthe council. The injunctionremainsineffect until resolution of aCity Council lawsuit over MayorLaToyaCantrell’shandling of the trust.

Despite the injunction, Cantrell promised Wisner funding for the project during aNovember groundbreaking ceremony. Cantrell saidthe money would “ensurethe NOLAWalkofFame lives.” The Cantrell administrationdid notimmediately respond to questionsonWednesday “It’snot just about today. It’s aboutreflectingonthe resilience of this city, no doubt aboutit. It’s

aboutreflectingabout howwe’ve evolved as apeople,” Cantrell said at the ceremony But council members on Monday asked for adetailed budget andother information before considering the NOLAWalkof Fame funding request. They also questioned arequirement that future honorees or theirfamilies must paya $35,000 fee to geta plaque

“Boy,amIopposed to charging $35,000 to acommunity leader who might getrecognized,”saidGreen. “You begin to look elitist.”

Steib, who spoke to the council on Monday,saidthe $35,000 per honoree fee goes towardmaintaining theplaques, noting that the Hollywood Walk of Fame charges

$75,000. That didn’tconvince Green, who retorted “you’re going to have atough time using Hollywood with me.”

Steib suggested fundraisersor wealthysponsors could be tapped to come up withthe fees,which shesaid are necessary to making NOLA Walk of Fame succeed.

“For this to be asustainable, free-standing nonprofit, there has to be some type of income or revenue that comes in outside of fundraising,”Steib said.

King also said some celebrities being honored, such as NBA Hallof-Famer Clyde Drexler,were borninNew Orleans but aren’t commonlyassociated with the city

“Not taking anything away from Clyde the Glide, but he has done

nothing for the city of New Orleans,” said council member Freddie King.

Miller,however,said to WVUE on Wednesdaythatheisnot seeking the Wisner trust cash. “Weare notasking for no money for the city because the city doesn’thave any money.Especiallynot to give to that,” he said. At the sametime, he seemed to petition the council forthe funds: “I’m challenging the council people.Let’sget together and do the right thing.”

Milleralso expressedexasperation about the political process. “Thank God that I’m an entrepreneur.I’m grateful. Thank Godthat Ihave nothing to do withpolitics. We need to come together,because we can’tdonothing.”

motiontoend theprogram, defended the so-called “public entities” program that sends money to government agencies locally.And he raised concerns about the amount of moneybeingallocated to running the new statewide program.

“We’re talking about schools. We’retalkingabout hospitals,” Francis said. “They serve everyoneinthe community.”

LoganBurke,headofthe Alliancefor Affordable Energy, which advocated forthe program, said the decision will costresidents money on their electric bills, which are already unaffordable for many.

“Weare decadesbehind on addressing energy waste,” Burke said. “Itdoesn’tmatterhow low the rate is when we’re throwing money out the doors and windows.”

Ahandful of advocates and customersspoke out againstthe move,but critics complained public participation was limited by the remote locationata fishing resort nearthe Texasborder.Francis, thecommis-

sion’schair,added the item to theagenda acouple days beforethe meeting,further angering critics.

The complex motion to suspend theprogram, which caused alengthy debate, also upset Democratic Commissioner Davante Lewis, who wrote on the social media siteXafter thevote that he’s“still confused about what the Republicans did, and if you watch the meeting so were they.”

By contrast,lastyear’s vote to set up the more substantial program cameafter the Alliance and Together Louisiana packed themeeting room in Baton Rouge andafter months of debate over how to best help residents lower theirenergy usage.

Ultimately, the advocacy groups got much of what theysought:Athird party would run the program, not utilities. And companies like Entergyand Clecowouldn’t be able to charge customers for energy theywould no longerbeable to sell if homes and businesses had betterinsulation anddidn’t

need as much power

“The leastexpensive generationplant forcustomers is the one they’re not forced to pay for,” Greene said last year Louisiana residents have been hit with soaring bills in recentyears, especially in 2022, when natural gas prices skyrocketed and utilitiespassed thecosts to customers. Louisianaelectric companies rely heavily on natural gastopower their turbines, meaning price

swings can hit customers.

At thesametime, utilities are charging customers to pay forrepairs and upgrades to their aging electric grids, whichhavebeen hammered by hurricanes.

The commissionisset to debate the matter againnext month, specifically around the public entities program and whether to continue moving forward on amore robust energy efficiency plan.

In the meantime, utilities

like Entergy and Cleco will continue to be in charge of the “quick start” program. That program assists only a smallfraction of utilitycustomers. Skrmetta said in arecent interviewthathebelieved thenew energyefficiency programwas goingtobe “inflationary” for customers. He also questionedthe “quick start” program by pointing outthatmost people don’ttakeadvantage of it.

STAFFFILE PHOTOByJAVIER GALLEGOS

of Fame inductee ceremony on Feb.6

Nearly 40K in La. apply for private school grants

Number of eligible students will depend on financial allocation

BY PATRICK WALL Staff writer

A new program to help Louisiana families pay for private education drew nearly 40,000 applications in less than two months state officials said Wednesday — a number that Gov Jeff Landry, who has championed the program, called “astounding.”

Beginning next school year the LA GATOR Scholarship Program will give tax dollars to eligible families to pay for private school tuition and other approved expenses like tutoring and school uniforms. It will replace the state’s existing voucher program for poor families.

Families submitted more than 39,000 applications from March 1 to April 15, exceeding many observers’ expectations and demonstrating strong demand for the state grants. But only a fraction of those families will receive grants,

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“If the rates don’t go down, then it’s on him,” Landry told Griffon, referring to Temple.

Said Temple on Wednesday: “I don’t know if he really intended that. But he said it.”

Under current law, the commissioner approves rate increases that are “actuarily justified,” meaning a staffer has reviewed the data from insurance companies and found the proposed increase to be mathematically sound.

Under HB576, by Rep. Robby Carter, D-Greensburg, the commissioner could simply decide that the proposed rate increase was excessive and deny it.

The commissioner needs that authority to stop insurance companies from continuing to raise rates, Landry told the committee members. Using populist language, Landry

which can range from about $7,600 for lower-income families to nearly $15,300 for students with disabilities.

The actual number of participants will depend on how much money the Legislature allocates for the program.

With the state facing a projected $194 million shortfall, top lawmakers want to fund LA GATOR at roughly the same level as the voucher program, which got about $44 million for 5,300 students this school year. But Landry wants more than twice that amount, nearly $94 million, enough to give grants to an estimated 12,000 students.

On Wednesday, he touted the applications as evidence of the new program’s popularity — an implicit argument for giving it more money

“These astounding numbers show just how vital the Gator Scholarship is to Louisianans,” he said in a statement, adding that the program empowers parents to choose “the learning environment that best suits their needs and values.”

Louisiana is one of nearly 20 Re-

said lawmakers have passed a host of measures in recent years at the behest of insurance companies to lower rates.

“We have been asked to trust them,” Landry said. “But we have no ability to hold them accountable if they lie.” As a result, he added, “Insurance companies continue to report record profits while our rates continue to rise. It’s frustrating our citizens.”

Rep. Tammy Phelps D-Shreveport, expressed that sentiment when she accused Temple of not doing enough to stop the rate increases.

She said she favored HB576 because she is on the side of consumers.

Temple replied that giving an insurance commissioner the authority to rebuff rate increases without basing the decision on data would discourage companies from wanting to do business in Louisiana.

Consumers would be the losers, he added, saying he has already refused to approve 40 rate increases

“Louisiana

families are making it clear — they want more educational options and the freedom to choose what works best for their children.”

CADE BRUMLEy, state superintendent of education

publican-led states that have created tax-funded grants, also called education savings accounts, to help parents pay for private education. Champions of this approach, including President Donald Trump, say parents should decide whether the tax dollars allocated for their children go to public, private or home schools.

State Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley said Wednesday that LA GATOR received more applications than many similar programs in other states when they first launched.

“Louisiana families are making it clear — they want more educational options and the freedom to choose what works best for their children,” he said in a statement.

Students who received vouchers

The bill sought by Landry is part of what he calls “a balanced approach” to solving Louisiana’s car insurance crisis.

The governor is also supporting several bills that trial lawyers oppose.

Temple blames high insurance rates on a legal system that he says allows too many lawsuits and big payouts for injured drivers and their attorneys.

His solution is to impose fewer restrictions on insurance companies and restrict the legal rights of trial lawyers in the belief that those changes would make more companies want to come to Louisiana to operate.

Temple said that is already happening for property owners after the Legislature passed a slew of insurance measures affecting them last year Eight insurers have filed for lower rates this year, he said.

But the auto insurance problem remains particularly acute for commercial trucking companies, said Renee Amar, a lobbyist for

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this school year will be given top priority for LA GATOR grants, followed by students with disabilities and children from families with a total income at or below 250% of federal poverty guidelines, or $80,375 for a family of four

It appears that most applicants fall into one of those categories: More than 80% meet the income requirements, and about 8% are students with disabilities, state officials said. Assuming there are not enough grants for every student in those groups, the state will award stipends based on which families applied first.

In other states with voucher-like programs, many of the grants have gone to families with children already in private schools or homeschooled not parents of publicschool students seeking better options For example, nearly threefourths of students who participated in Arizona’s expanded voucher program when it launched in 2022 had never been enrolled in a public school.

A similar scenario could unfold in Louisiana. Less than 30% of LA GATOR applicants — about 11,000

truckers. They typically have only two choices for insurers, which drives up their rates, she added.

Along with Landry’s aides, insurance company lobbyists took many of the other seats in the committee room Wednesday, and they sided with Temple when it came their time to speak.

Rodney Braxton, a lobbyist for the Insurance Council of Louisiana, said passage of HB576 would have “a chilling effect” on insurers. The high car insurance rates have emerged as the biggest political issue during the regular legislative session that began Monday One of the subplots is that Landry and Temple have not been talking while House members, pushed by freshmen Republicans, have been holding hearings for months to find solutions. Most of their bills align with the insurance industry Landry and Temple said the two finally got together on Tuesday Both said they had a cordial discussion at the Governor’s Mansion.

students — are enrolled in public schools, according to the state education department. The majority are already enrolled in private schools or homeschools.

Because most applicants don’t attend public schools, they will represent a new expense for the state.

The new costs come as the state faces a revenue shortfall and uncertain federal funding. And if lawmakers want to keep public school teachers from facing pay cuts, they will need to come up with nearly $200 million.

Rep. Laurie Schlegel, R-Metairie, said the LA GATOR application numbers show families’ hunger for more school options. But Schlegel, who co-authored a bill that would increase state spending on TOPS college scholarships by an estimated $47.5 million, said lawmakers are still deciding how much money to put into the GATOR program.

“It will need to be weighed with all the other priorities of the state,” she said.

Email Patrick Wall at patrick. wall@theadvocate.com.

“We both want the same goal, which is for citizens and businesses to have lower insurance,” Temple told reporters afterward. “We just have a little bit different perspective on how to get there.” Seven Democrats and six of the 10 Republicans voted for HB576. The four Republicans who bucked the governor were: Reps Dennis Bamburg of Bossier City, Jay Gallé of Mandeville, Troy Hebert of Lafayette and John Illg of Metairie.

“A number of us had questions about what we were trying to accomplish and whether it really moved the needle,” Illg said afterward.

In an unusual move, Rep. Chad Brown, D-Plaquemine, a former deputy insurance commissioner, presented the bill for Carter Afterward, he said the Governor’s Office asked him to do so because he is so steeped in the issue. Carter said in a phone interview later that he missed the hearing because he was sick in bed.

BUSINESS

BRIEFS FROM STAFFAND WIRE REPORTS

Houston nonprofitdigital news outlet to close

The Houston Landing, anonprofit digital news outlet,said it is shuttingdown due to “financial challenges” less than two years afteritwas launched

The Landingstarted in publishing in June 2023, backed by more than $20 millioninseed funding from ahost of organizations, including Houston Endowment, American Journalism Project and the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. Thepublication waslaunched after atwo-year study from the American JournalismProject found Houston residents saidtheydid not feel they had access to adeeply reported stories that impacted their daily lives.

But the board said it hasbeen unable to develop revenue to support its ongoing operations and will shut down in about amonth. The Landing spent $2 million more than it brought in last year,and oneofits initial founders decided to stop donatingmoney to the organization, according to the Columbia Journalism Review

“Weare proud of the Landing’scoverage of Greater Houston and continue to believedeeply in the need for more free,independentjournalism in our region,” said Ann B. Stern, board chair of Houston Landing.

“This decision was difficult but necessary.Houston Landing’sreporting has made a meaningful impact in the community,but it struggled to find its long-term financial footing.”

The board said it is indiscussions with The Texas Tribune, an Austin-based nonprofit news outlet, about establishing a Houston newsroom. The Texas Tribune is expanding across the Lone Star State and is set to open newsrooms in Waco and Austin this year

Administration to end free tax filing program

The Trump administration plans to eliminate the IRS’ Direct File program, an electronic system for filing tax returns directly to the agency for free, according to two people familiar with the decision.

The program developed during Joe Biden’spresidency was credited by users with making tax filing easy,fast and economical.But Republican lawmakers and commercial tax preparation companies complainedit was awaste of taxpayer money because free filing programs already exist, although they are hard to use.

The program had been in limbo since the start of the Trump administrationasElonMusk and the DepartmentofGovernment Efficiency have slashed their way through thefederal government. Musk posted in February on his social media site,X,that he had “deleted” 18F,agovernment agency that worked on technology projects such as Direct File.

Those familiar with the decision to end Direct File said its future became clear when the IRS staff assigned to the program were told in mid-March to stop working on its development for the 2026 taxfiling season.

Chinese sites Temu, Shein to raise prices

China-foundede-commerce sites Temu and Shein say they plan to raise prices for U.S. customers starting next week, aripple effect from President Donald Trump’sattempts to correct the trade imbalance between the world’stwo largest economies by imposing askyhigh tariff on goods shipped fromChina.

Bothcompanies said they wouldbemaking “price adjustments” starting April 25, although neither provided details about the size of the increases.

Since launching in the United States, Sheinand Temu have given Western retailers arun for their money by offering products at ultralow prices, coupled with avalanches of digital or influencer advertising

Fedpatient on interest rate moves

Powell plans‘to wait forgreater clarity’

BY CHRISTOPHER RUGABER AP economics writer

WASHINGTON The Federal Reserve can stay patient andwaitto see how tariffs and other economic policies of the Trump administration play out before making any changes to interest rates, Chair Jerome Powell said Wednesday

“As that great Chicagoan Ferris Buelleronce noted,‘Lifemoves pretty fast,’ ”Powell said in a speech to the Economic Club of Chicago. “For thetimebeing, we arewell-positioned to wait for greater clarity” on the impact of policy changes in areas such as immigration, taxation,regulation and tariffs, hesaid

Thesharp volatility in financial markets sincePresident Donald

Trump announced sweeping tariffs April 2, only to put mostof them on hold aweek later,has led to speculation about whetherthe Fedwould soon cut its key interest rate or take other steps to calm investors. Yetthe Fed is unlikely to intervene unless there is abreakdown in themarket for Treasury securities or other malfun ctions, economists say In hisprepared remarks, Powell reiterated that the Trump administration’s tariffs are “significantly larger than anticipated.”

mandates it’s been givenbyCongress:Toachieve maximum employment andmaintainstable prices.Should both inflationand unemployment rise, that would be a“challenging scenario,” he said, because theFed would essentially have to choose whether to keep interest rates high to fight inflation or cut them to spur growth and hiring.

“The same is likely to be true of theeconomic effects, which will include higher inflation and slower growth,” he said.

Powellalso said that the Fed could face threats to both of the

“Our tool only does oneofthose two things at the sametime,” he said in aquestion-and-answer session.

Powell and many Fed officials have signaled previously that they aremoreconcerned about tariffs pushing inflation higher than their potential hit to growth.

That would mean that even if the economyweakened, the Fed might keep rateselevated to combat inflation.

Powell said the inflation from tariffs will likely be temporary,

but “could also be more persistent,” echoing aconcern expressed by amajority of the Fed’s19-member interest rate-setting committee in the minutes of their meeting last month.

Yetsome splits among the Fed’s interest rate-setting committee have emerged. On Monday, Fed governor ChristopherWallersaid that he expects the impact of even alarge increase in tariffstobe temporary,evenifthey are left in place for several years. At the same time, he also expects such large dutieswould weigh on the economyand even threatena recession.

But otherFed officials, including Neel Kashkari, president of theFed’sMinneapolis branch, have said they aremore focused on fighting theeffectsofhigher tariffs on inflation, suggesting they are less likely to support rate cuts any time soon.

U.S. stocks drop as Nvidia slides

Fogoftrade warthickens

BY STAN CHOE AP business writer

NEWYORK U.S. stocks fell Wednesdayafter Nvidia warned newrestrictions on exports to China will chisel billions of dollars off its results, while companies around theworld said President DonaldTrump’strade war is clouding forecasts for howtheyand the economy will do this year

TheS&P 500 sankafter falling as much as 3.3% earlier.Such an amount would have vied for one of itsworst lossesinyearsbefore the historic, chaoticswings that have upended Wall Street in recent weeks.

The Dow JonesIndustrial Average and the Nasdaq composite also plunged.

Nvidiadropped 6.9% afteritsaidthe U.S. government is restricting exportsofits H20 chipstoChina, citing worries thatthey could beused to build asupercomputer.The restrictions could mean ahit of $5.5 billion

to Nvidia’sresults for the first quarter, covering charges related to inventory and purchase commitments.

Advanced MicroDevices sank 7.3% after it said U.S. limits on exports to China forits own chips may mean ahit of up to $800 million for inventory and other charges.

In Amsterdam, ASML’s stock sank5.2%.

The Dutch company,whosemachinery makes chips, said demand forartificialintelligence technology is continuing to drivegrowth. “However, therecent tariff announcements have increased uncertainty in the macro environment and the situation will remain dynamicfor awhile,” CEO Christophe Fouquet said.

The uncertainty around Trump’stradewar has been scrambling plans for companies acrossindustries andaround the world. It’s so dynamic that United Airlinesgave two differentfinancialforecasts forhow it may perform this year,one if there’sarecession and one if not.

The airline said it madethe unusual move to give twin forecasts because it believes it’s

“impossible to predict this year with any degree of confidence.”

United’sstock finished roughly flat even though it reported astronger profit forthe latest quarter than analysts expected.

Many investors are bracing fora possible recession because of Trump’stariffs, which he has said he hopes will bring manufacturingjobs back to theUnited States andtrim how much moreitimports from other countries than it exports.

Asurvey of global fund managers by Bank of America found expectationsfor recession are at the fourth-highest levelinthe last 20 years.

One U.S. companythatmoves products around thecontinent, J.B. HuntTransport Services, tumbled7.7%for oneofWall Street’ssharper losses, even though it reported slightly stronger profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected.

Tariffs could also drive up inflation, at least temporarily,bypushing U.S.importers to pass alongthe higher costs to their customers.

Lafayette-basedDupré Logisticsacquired

Transportation companyhas over 700trucks

BY ADAM DAIGLE Acadiana business editor

Dupré Logistics, aLafayettebasedtransportation company with apresence across theGulf Coast, has been acquired by aNew York-based investment firm Stonepeak, which specializing in infrastructure and real assets, announced apartnership on Wednesday with Dupré Logistics, headquartered at 201 Energy Parkway.Terms of thedeal were

not disclosed. Reggie Dupré, whofoundedthe company 45 yearsago and was later CEO as well as boardchairman, will remainwith thecompany as a board member. Chris Sower,who has more than 25 years in thesupply chain logistics industry,was named interim chief executiveofficertosucceed former CEO Mike Weindel. Dupré servesa broad range of industrieswith more than 700 trucks and 1,000 professional drivers. Stonepeak, which has offices around the world, has $72 billion

of assets. It providescapital and operationalsupport to grow investmentsindigital infrastructure, energy and energy transition, transport and logistics and real estate.

“Over the last 40 years, Dupré has established an impressive footprint, becoming an integral part of the supply chain in the SunBelt,” Stonepeak managing director Graham Brownsaid. “We believe that Dupré will be agreat complement to our growing transportation and logistics portfolio and look forward to working handin-hand with Reggie, Chris, and the Dupréteam to take the company to thenext level.” Said Dupré: “Weare thrilled to have found Stonepeak and en-

ter this new era alongside such a strong partner.Their proven track record, investment strategy and alignment with our core values makethem the perfect partner as Dupré continues to expand.” Dupré has garnered awards in the transportation industry, includingtwo first-placeSafety Awards from the Louisiana Motor Transport Association last year

The companyhas annualrevenue estimated at more than $300 million.

G2 CapitalAdvisors facilitated the transaction as adviser to the seller

Email Adam Daigle at adaigle@ theadvocate.com.

Powell

Dupré

ASSOCIATEDPRESS PHOTOByRICHARD DREW

Specialist Gennaro Saporito works Wednesdayonthe floor of the Newyork Stock Exchange.

Authorities look for motive in arson

Pennsylvania governor’s residence targeted

BY MARK SCOLFORO and JOHN SEEWER Associated Press

HERSHEY, Pa — Authorities

Shapiro

investigating why a man set fire to Pennsylvania Gov Josh Shapiro’s official residence are probing whether the suspect was motivated by the Democrat’s Jewish faith or positions on Israel’s war in Gaza.

Police have said that Cody Balmer of Harrisburg, harbored hatred toward Shapiro.

Several search warrants released Wednesday offer the

first details about a potential motive for the arson attack early Sunday in a room where only hours earlier, Shapiro and his family celebrated Passover with members of

the Jewish community Balmer called 911 less than an hour after the fire erupted, promised a confession and talked about Palestinians being killed, police wrote in search warrants.

Exactly what the man was trying to say and who he was referencing isn’t clear from the partial quotations included in the search warrants. Police quoted Balmer as saying “our people have been put through too much by that monster,” and that Shapiro “needs to know that he will not take part in his plans for what he wants to do to the Palestinian people.”

During a police interview after turning himself in, Balmer “admitted to harboring hatred towards Governor Shapiro,” according to a police affidavit that did not expand on that point. Police obtained search warrants for Balmer’s electronic devices

and a storage locker seeking any writings or notes that contain “the name of Josh Shapiro (or a) reference to Palestine, Gaza, Israel or the current conflict in Gaza.”

Shapiro declined to talk about a motive on Wednesday, saying prosecutors will ultimately determine what prompted the attack. “It’s not for me to answer that,” he said.

The governor has been publicly critical of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government and the nature of Israel’s military action in Gaza, but also has backed Israel’s right to defend itself from Hamas.

Balmer, 38, had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder but didn’t believe the assessment, his brother, Dan Balmer, told The Associated Press. He said he twice helped Cody get treatment at the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Institute.

Police: Student opens fire at Texas school, injuring 4

BY JAMIE STENGLE Associated Press

DALLAS The student ac-

mained hospitalized for observation but were expected to recover, the Dallas Fire-Recue Department said.

BY BRIAN MELLEY, JILL LAWLESS and SYLVIA HUI Associated Press

LONDON The U.K. Supreme Court ruled Wednesday that a woman is someone born biologically female, excluding transgender people from the legal definition in a long-running dispute between a feminist group and the Scottish government.

hailed it as a major win in their effort to protect spaces designated for women.

“Everyone knows what sex is and you can’t change it,” said Susan Smith, co-director of For Women Scotland, which brought the case. “It’s common sense, basic common sense, and the fact that we have been down a rabbit hole where people have tried to deny science and to deny reality, and hopefully this will now see us back to reality.”

from some groups and singlesex spaces such as changing rooms, homeless shelters, swimming areas and medical or counseling services provided only to women.

The court said the ruling did not remove rights for trans people still protected from discrimination under U.K. law But it said certain protections should apply only to biological females and not transgender women.

cused of injuring four in a shooting at a Dallas high school was let into the building through an unsecured door and then walked down a hallway toward a group of students, opening fire on them and then appearing to take a point-blank shot at one, according to an arrest warrant released Wednesday

The 17-year-old suspect was being held in Dallas County jail on Wednesday on a charge of aggravated assault mass shooting. He was taken into custody several hours after the shooting, which happened just after 1 p.m. on Tuesday at Wilmer-Hutchins High School.

Three of those injured were between the ages of 15 to 18 and were shot, according to Dallas Fire-Rescue.

A fourth person whose age was unknown had an injury that Dallas Fire-Rescue said could only be identified as a “musculoskeletal injury” to the lower body Dallas Fire-Rescue said Wednesday that a fifth person — a 14-year-old female — was later taken to the hospital for anxiety-related symptoms. She had not been shot.

The shooting drew a large number of police and other law enforcement agents to the roughly 1,000-student campus.

arrest warrant. The arrest warrant said that after spotting the group of students in the hallway he displayed a firearm and began firing “indiscriminately” before approaching a student who was not able to run and walking toward that student and appearing to take a point-blank shot.

Christina Smith, assistant police chief for the Dallas Independent School District, said during a Tuesday news conference that she did not have any information on what led to the shooting.

The court said the unanimous ruling shouldn’t be seen as victory by one side, but several women’s groups that supported the appeal celebrated outside court and

The ruling brings some clarity in the U.K. to an issue that has polarized politics in some other countries, particularly the United States. U.K.’s top court says definition of woman is based on biological sex

Five judges ruled that the U.K. Equality Act means trans women can be excluded

Four male students were injured in the shooting and taken to hospitals, according to authorities. By Wednesday, two had been discharged and two re-

School surveillance camera footage showed that an unidentified student let the suspect in through an unsecured door prior to the shooting, according to the

Smith said the gun didn’t come into the school during “regular intake time.” She said “it was not a failure of our staff, of our protocols, or of the machinery that we have.” But she said she could not elaborate on that. Dallas school district officials did not immediately respond to an email or call from The Associated Press seeking additional information on Wednesday

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JULIO CORTEZ

Superintendent Stephanie Elizalde, left, speaks Tuesday with law enforcement outside Wilmer-Hutchins High School in Dallas.

Officials tout Tulane Day at the Capitol

Event seeks to build support for Charity project

BY STEPHANIE RIEGEL Staff writer

Tulane University’s top executives made the rounds in Baton Rouge on Wednesday, meeting with legislative leaders and Gov Jeff Landry’s key staffers to tout the university’s economic impact during the annual

Police say pair schemed to drug, rob men

New details revealed in court testimony

BY JOSEPH CRANNEY Staff writer

Two people accused by Jefferson Parish authorities in the Super Bowl week death of a Kansas City reporter had been scheming with other women to drug and rob men, a Kenner police detective told a judge Wednesday, using alcohol and Xanax as a “knock out” punch before making off with cash, phones, jewelry and other property

Tulane Day at the Capitol.

Tulane President Mike Fitts and Chief Operating Officer Pat Norton were joined by students, employees and stakeholders gathered behind a half a dozen tables in the rotunda outside the Senate chambers distributing pamphlets that sought to tell the story of Tulane by the numbers. The university has an annual economic impact of $5.2 billion, generates more than $88 million in tax revenue and has 2,000 employees on

its downtown campus alone.

While the event was billed as a celebration of Tulane’s contributions to the economy, innovation and health care in Louisiana, the day was also a way to build support for a long-stalled plan to redevelop the old Charity Hospital building on Tulane Avenue into a mixed-use complex of apartments, labs and academic office space.

Tulane is trying to rescue the ambitious project, which hit the skids after its original development team ran out of

money before even getting started. The university is the building’s anchor tenant and originally agreed to lease one-third of the building and make it the centerpiece of the university’s growing downtown campus.

For more than a year, Tulane has been negotiating with the developers to play a larger role in the project, which is now expected to cost at least $600 million. Though it’s not clear what that new deal would look like, Tulane would agree

to become a partner in the Charity project, taking more financial risk and more space in the building in return for having more control over the design and construction.

Under such an arrangement, Tulane would pay for as much as two-thirds of the renovation.

Last summer, Fitts said public support from the state and the city, as well as the federal government, will be necessary to make that happen.

PEAK PERFORMANCE

Wednesday’s event was not the day to make that ask, and Norton said it’s too soon to say yet exactly what the university will seek from the state.

“A lot of our asks are around our downtown development, and it’s quite modest,” Norton said. “I really don’t want to quote the number, but it’s a modest amount of upfront money to really get our downtown development moving in the

ä See TULANE, page 3B

Detectives obtained a trove of text messages between suspects Danette Colbert and Rickey White, which police said show a trail of incidents similar to 27-year-old Adan Manzano’s death in a Kenner hotel room in February, which they believe was unintentional. Ma nz an o was a Telemundo reporter and a father of one. After a night of drinking with Colbert, Manzano’s body was found at the Comfort Suites on Feb. 5, four days before the Super Bowl at the Superdome. Surveillance footage showed that Manzano and Colbert were out on Bourbon Street the night before, and captured the pair in the hotel lobby before they went to Manzano’s room. Kenner Police Detective Jeffrey Fitzmorris said

Archdiocese

Christopher Homes features apartments

BY STEPHANIE RIEGEL Staff writer

footprint and shed affiliated charities The local Roman Catholic

Man killed in Bywater attack

BY MISSY WILKINSON Staff writer

Michael Craig Hankins was a regular at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church only for a year and a half. But in that timespan, he redefined the church’s mission of service to marginalized people, said the pastors who served hot meals alongside him after Sunday services. Faded liturgical wreaths have been replaced by new ones handmade by Hankins, with ribbons, silk greenery and flowers. A oncestuffy storage area for donated clothes and hygiene supplies now features a battery-powered fan. The French Quarter church hosts a monthly health ministry offering blood pressure screenings, health care information and referrals from nurses, thanks to Hankins’ vision and connections.

“He’d notice what was needed and quietly helped so many people,” the Rev Becky Conner said.

One of those people, 18-year-old Trevor Lee Delrie, came to church with Hankins on March 23 — the day congregants now believe was Hankins’ last.

“Trevor had been to church two or three times. That Sunday, he was unusually quiet,” said Pastor Lenda Faye Matthews. “Craig said he was trying to get him back in Covenant House, and he asked about group homes.”

plans to sell low-income senior housing

Church notified the roughly 1,700 residents of the properties of its plans in a letter Wednesday, shortly before issuing a solicitation for proposals to real estate brokers interested in marketing the properties for sale.

There’s no publicly disclosed list price being sought by the church for the properties, which include the nine-story Christopher Inn in the heart of the Faubourg Marigny, Wynhoven Apartments I & II in Marrero and The Apartments at Mater Dolorosa, located in a historic school building on South Carrollton Avenue.

There’s also no public timeline for how long the sale process might take. In its letter to residents, the archdiocese said, “It is our intent you continue to have decent, affordable, independent housing, without interruption for the foreseeable future.”

The move to sell Christopher Homes comes as the archdiocese is offloading old churches, vacant schools and buildings, and affiliated charities in an effort to raise money to settle claims with survivors of clergy sex abuse. Archbishop Gregory Aymond placed the local

church under federal bankruptcy protection five years ago amid a growing number of lawsuits alleging child rape and molestation by priests, deacons and other clergy or employees of the church.

Five years later 600 abuse survivors have filed claims in bankruptcy court, and the two sides remain at an impasse over a fair settlement, according to statements made last week in court by a mediator in the case.

‘Prime real estate’

The archdiocese’s need to raise money to bring the

long-running case to a close may influence who it sells the properties to and what happens to the residents.

In a prepared statement, the church said its goal is to “insure the care of the people who live in the Christopher Homes, but under bankruptcy law, we have to maximize the value of the assets.”

In its letter to the residents, the archdiocese said there wouldn’t be any disruptions while the buildings are on the market and negotiations are taking place. The letter stops short of guaranteeing residents,

whose income is capped at 60% of the area median income, or about $35,000 year, that they will be able to remain in their apartments if the properties are sold to a private developer

“Any purchaser will be required to follow applicable laws and the rules and regulations of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development that relate to the continuance of your current living arrangement post acquisition,” the letter states. HUD requires that buyers

PHOTO By DAVID GRUNFELD

Manzano

Hankins

See HANKINS, page 2B

See DEATH, page 3B

FederalcutsthreatenLa.’s Children’s Advocacy Centers

Agencies couldlose

$1.2M, directorsays

BY MEGHAN FRIEDMANN

Staff writer

Louisiana’sChildren’sAdvocacy Centers, which serve children who are victimsofabuse or human trafficking or who have witnessed violent crimes, are facinga $1.2 million budget cut that their leaderssay couldforcethemtoclose their doors or lay off staff if the state government doesn’t help “Wehave several centers who are definitelyfacing somedifficult decisions to, like Isaid, to keep the doorsopen or,ofcourse,tokeep staff,” Krystle Mitchell, executive director of the LouisianaAlliance of Children’sAdvocacy Centers, or LACAC, told the House Appropriations Committee.“I would saythe majority of thatallocation would go to the salaries at the CACs (Children’sAdvocacy Centers).”

Mitchell asked the committee to add $1.5 million to the budget for the centers. Gov.Jeff Landry’sofficehad alreadyincluded an initial $1.5 million in its proposed executivebudget, she said, and thesecond allocation would ensure CACs had at least$3 million from the state. The centers “provide not only the forensic interview,which is key forthe prosecution, they also provide victim advocacy services, mental health services as wellas themulti-disciplinary approach to child abuse cases,” Mitchell said.

In 2023, centers statewide served 7,573 children, conducting 5,991forensicinterviews,accordingtothe LACAC’swebsite. They also provided abuse prevention education toover 14,000 children and over 47,000 adults, the website says.

CACs across the country receive funding from the federal Crime Victims Fund, which supportsvictim services, said Mitchell. The

CPRA approves $2Bcoastal plan

$570Mtiedto paused MidBaratariaproject

BY ALEX LUBBEN Staff writer

Louisiana’sCoastal Protection and Restoration Authority approvedthe agency’s annual plan Wednesday, whichforecasts record spending of nearly $2 billion on projects aimed at creating new wetlands, elevating homes and building additional hurricane protections.

But more than aquarter of that spending, $573 million, is tied to one project, the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion, which is inlimbo after Gov.Jeff Landryquestioned itseffectiveness and stateofficials issued a90day pause on the project earlier this month. The annual plan provides funding for the project as though construction were to proceed.

The board unanimously voted to approve the spending plan, which now moves to the Legislature for final approval.

“Wefelt that you can’t just take something off (the plan) until there’ssomething officially done,” said CPRA board chairman Gordon Dove. “It wassuspendedfor 90 days because the cost is just atrocious.”

In addition to the MidBarataria project, which would create abreak in the MississippiRiver levee in Plaquemines Parish and use the river to rebuild land, Dove said there are 140 other projects funded through the agency’sannual plan. Those include apair of multiyear $3.4 billion projects.

One,insouthwest Louisiana, is breaking ground this year and aims to elevate between 800 and 1,000homes and is being carried out in partnership with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Another,the West Shore Lake Pontchartrain Hurricane Protection System, will providestorm surge protection to about 60,000 residents from LaPlace to Garyville.

Duringthe meeting, state Rep. Jerome Zeringue, RHouma, who is Speaker of the HousePhillipDeVillier’sdesignee on the agency’sboard, said that he was uncomfortable with aplan that included the $2.9 billion diversion project when “the intent (is) to work to cancel it,” he said.

“It seems somewhat disingenuous to vote on aplan when we know that this one project is no longer included without apath forward or an indication of what we intend to do now that that project is being canceled.”

Dove counteredthat there were other plans in the works, and that CPRA and thegovernor’s administration would present them to the public “once we finish this aggressive compilation of everything.” Zeringue, as thehouse speaker’srepresentative on the board, does not geta

fund gets its money from federal criminal fines,penalties and forfeited bail bonds, according to thefederal Office for Victims of Crime.

The fund begantodecline with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, which slowed federal cases, said Mitchell. Since then, the fund has continued tobedepleted, and CACs have faced multiple years of cuts,she said.

This year,the cutsare especially deep forLouisiana CACs,according to Mitchell: between 50% and 68%. Collectively, thecuts total $1.2 million, she said.

During Tuesday’s appropriations meeting, amember of thegovernor’sstaff vouched forthe CACs: Monica Taylor,director of human trafficking preventionfor theGovernor’sOffice.

She called the work the CACs do a“method of crime prevention.”

“If someonecan get help for theabusesand thethingsthat have been done to them, they are

less likelytoend up in ourcriminaljustice system, number one,” Taylor said. “And number two, we have foundthrough childadvocacy centers, domestic violence centers and sexual assault centers thatthe longer avictim has advocacy services, the longer they will stay engaged in the criminaljustice system and prosecute their perpetrators.”

“That’swhy someofthisfunding is so important,” she added.

State Rep. Jack McFarland, RJonesboro,who chairs the House Appropriations Committee and plays akey role in creating the budget,said in astatement that he was “encouraged to do everything possible” to backfill the $1.2 million.

“This is another example of the effects of areduction by the federal government,” he said.

Landry has attempted to create a“standstill” budget fornext year, keeping spending levels from state coffers as similar as possible to the

current year’sbudget.

But that could prove difficult as Louisiana expects to lose money through federal cuts administered by the Trump administration, which haspromised to slash what it calls wasteful andinefficient government functions.

The Department of Government Efficiency,headed by billionaire Elon Musk, listsatleast $133 million in cuts to organizations in Louisiana, though the accuracy of the agency’s figureshas been questioned.

Thecuts are expected to hit the Louisiana Department of Health, which administersthe state’s Medicaid program, the hardest. This month, state health officials said they anticipate losing up to $86 millionfrom eight federal grants set to be eliminated by the Trumpadministration.

Email Meghan Friedmann at meghan.friedmann@ theadvocate.com.

vote.

Advocatespushback

During the meeting’spublic comment period, representativesfrom environmentaladvocacygroups expressed their support for the Mid-Barataria projectand criticized efforts to kill it.

“How can aproject that has anchored four coastal master plans be excluded?” said Simone Maloz, thecampaign directorofRestore theMississippi River Delta.

“Louisianans wantaction, they do not want abandonment of the projects designed to protect their future.”

Kristi Trail, the executive director of thePontchartrainConservancy,urged theboard not to approvethe annual plan unlessthe MidBarataria project would proceed as previously planned.

“We’ve heard suggestions that asmaller diversion would suffice,” Trailsaid.

“However,the current scale of the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion is necessary to effectivelyaddress the magnitude of Louisiana’s coastal landloss.”

EthanMelancon, the advocacydirector forthe CoalitiontoRestore Coastal Louisiana, saidthe Mid-Barataria project “is andcan bethe solution to major issues that’s facingthe Barataria Basin.”

“We’ve heardit’sthe linchpin. We’ve heardit’sthe cornerstone,” he added. “All the termsthey have used are true.”But he stressed that his organization was committed to supporting other diversion projects that are also included in CPRA’s annual plan.

Theproject brokeground in 2023 andwas expected to move forward before Landry took office in 2024. Shrimpers and fishermen have long opposed the project, which is expectedto hurt some coastal fisheries. Landry appears to have taken theirconcerns to heart: He said last year theproject would “break our culture.”

TheMid-Baratariaproject appears to havesupport amongLouisianans more broadly. Several of thecommenters cited independent polls released this week, paid for byRestore theMississippiRiver Delta, that found that 83% of respondentssupported thediversion project.

“You can’tget 83% of people to agree on the color of this table,” said Ryan Lambert, acharter boatcaptain in Buras. “But 83% of the people say they want the diversion because (CPRA) did such agood job…over the years, going and being transparent, teaching people,going allthroughout the state with meetings, showinghow it can be done, why it should be done.”

Email AlexLubben at alex.lubben@theadvocate. com. His workis supported witha grant from the Walton Family Foundation, administered by the Baton Rouge Area Foundation.

Body foundinTreme homeless camp

BY MARCO CARTOLANO Staff writer

Abodywas discovered in ahomeless encampmentWednesdaymorning in the Treme/Lafitte neighborhood ahead of aplanned cleanup of thearea.

City Council Member Eugene Green said thebody was discovered by a health departmentemployee. Green did not identify the person who died, but said he was homeless and had been previously contacted by service providers.

Green was participatinginthe cleanup at the site next to the Lafitte Greenway,whichisinhis District D. He said neighbors have complained about illegal dumping and trashbuildup. City departments had partnered for thecleanup, but did not plan to removepeople staying there, according to WWL-Louisiana.

Greensaidareasidentified as en-

HANKINS

Continuedfrom page 1B

After the service, Hankins,61, went missing. Four days later,New Orleanspolicediscovered his body,beaten to death with ashovel in his bedroom in the 4200 block of Royal Street,accordingtocourt documents. The following day, on March28, police arrested DelrieinAlexandria, where he’dbeen using Hankins’ vehicle,phone and credit cards, booking him on suspicion of seconddegree murder The brutality of thekilling —and how acoroner’sstaff member dragged thebody bag down aflight of stairs, in what Coroner Dwight McKenna calleda “horrendous” mishandling —sent shock wavesthrough St. Mark’scongregation, Matthews said.

Lovedonessay there’s much moretoHankins’ story than its violent end.

“Wedonot wanthim to be known for how he died,” Conner said. “Wewant him to be known for how he lived.”

‘One person at atime’ Chad Alexander,35, atax

campments and dumping sitesare cleaned up regularly in the interest of neighbors, as well as people who sleep there. It’stypicalfor arepresentative from the HealthDepartmentorDepartment of Homeless Services and Strategy toreachout to people staying there.

Crime scene investigators were also at the scene, and the cleanup was canceled after the body wasfound.

“I want toencourage anyone whois unhoused, or any advocate to recognize that livingonthe streetsofNew Orleans —orany city —isdangerous,” Green said. “I want them to find away to askmore forresources and takeadvantage of thespaces that are available.”

Green said ashelter is always safer than sleeping on the street, and the city could do more to encourage people to go inside.

The city has been working to build more shelter space to address a“long-

preparer in Mississippi, referstohimselfasHankins’ nephew

Though theprecise nature of their familial bond is hard to define, Alexander is sure of one thing.

“My mom says if it wasn’t for that man, Iwouldn’tbe here today,” he said.

Hankins was aColumbus, Mississippi, native and retiredOrleans Parish schoolteacher with aPh.D. in philosophy andanMBA. He had no biological children but assumed apaternal role when he took in Alexander in 2008.

Alexander saidhewas 18 at thetimeand hadbeen “on thestreets, doing stuff Iwasn’t supposed to do.”

He moved into Hankins’ double gallery home, living by Hankins’ rules: no drugs, geta job, or help aroundthe house.

He was one of many to do so.

“I’ve seenhim help at least 100 people (and connect them) with city resources,”Alexandersaid. “Some stayed anight, some aweek. Istayed with him on and off for years.…Hetruly believed he could help the world one person at atime.”

“He acted like their personal social worker,” Con-

ner said.

Somethingoff

standing shortage of beds available forhomeless people,” including plans to build a65-bedcity-run shelter in Mid-City

The apartment-style shelter would be thefirstofits kind in thecity, and advocates say it is abetter option for those with mental illness who may struggle with close quarters. Advocates have said policiesenforced by most shelters,suchassobrietyrequirements, strictcurfews and gender restrictions, can deter some from staying.

“No matter the conditions that are indoors, theyare always better than living outdoors. We can do everything possible and we can do moretomake people feel comfortable, but we have to startoff withthis argument and it has to be an absolute argument,” Green said.

Email Marco Cartolano at Marco. Cartolano@theadvocate.com.

People who knew Hankins said he wasaware of the risks he took by inviting people who had been kicked out of shelters into his home. But even those he deemed toorisky to invite inside got ameal and a soda on the porch. When Hankins didn’tanswer hiscalls in late March, Alexander knew something waswrong. New Orleans policesuspect Delrie fatally beat Hankins with ashovel and the iron Hankins kept near his bed forprotection. Delrie was discharged days earlier from amental institution. He is being held without bond in the Orleans

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Justice Center.Acompetency hearing is scheduled forMay St. Mark’sUnited Methodist Church will host amemorial service for Hankins at 11 a.m. on May 10 at 1130 N. Rampart St. “Hewas aspecial person who cared —not wanting publicity,but wanting to help and provide resources andadd to what St. Mark’s does,” said the Rev. Jeff Conner.“Hisfingerprint will be here much longer than, unfortunately,hewas able to be.”

STAFFPHOTO By BRETT DUKE

NewOrleans Police Departmentinvestigators search the area of ahomeless encampment in the Treme/Lafitte neighborhood after abodywas discovered.

Northshore sheriffs: Criminal justice costs growing

Officials cite difficulty raising taxes

BY BOB WARREN Staff writer

Northshore law enforcement leaders told a group of business executives in Mandeville on Wednesday that as their parishes grow so will the needs of the agencies responsible for keeping them safe. But it’s increasingly difficult to win voter support for the taxes needed to cover rising criminal justice costs, the law enforcement

leaders from St. Tammany Tangipahoa and Washington parishes told a lunchtime gathering of the Northshore Business Council.

“When you say tax, it’s a bad word — like going to church and cursing,” said Maj. Alex Richardson of the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, drawing a few chuckles from the group Tangipahoa Parish voters shot down a three-quarter cent sales tax for the Sheriff’s Office on March 29. That same day, voters in St. Tammany Parish rejected a parish government proposition to rededicate part of an existing sales tax for roads and drainage to use some of

the revenue for criminal justice costs.

“What’s next? I don’t know,” St. Tammany Sheriff Randy Smith said, referring to the parish government’s yearslong quest to win voter support for a tax plan to cover many of the criminal justice system costs for which the parish government is responsible.

$20 million of his agency’s $66 million annual budget. He’s confident, but knows he can’t take it for granted.

“Building community trust is critical,” he said.

ing that Tangipahoa Sheriff Gerald Sticker has been honest with voters about the need to increase staffing and boost pay for deputies.

Jason Smith told the group the current parish jail, built in Franklinton in 1983, is overcrowded and in awful condition.

Richardson said the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office would likely come back to voters with another tax proposition. Voters there turned thumbs-down on the agency’s proposition to repeal an existing 11-mill property tax and replace it with the sales tax that would have brought in much more money

“Our parish is not the sleepy little place it used to be,” he added. “I miss that.”

Tangipahoa’s population is nearly 140,000, according to the latest Census Bureau estimates, around 40,000 more than in 2000.

St. Tammany meanwhile, is home to more than 275,000 people, according to the latest estimates. That’s 83,000 more people than in 2000.

Smith said the St. Tammany Sheriff’s Office will be seeking a renewal in 2027 of a property tax that covers

“I think we’re probably going to climb that mountain again” sometime this year, Richardson said, add-

In Washington Parish, meanwhile, Sheriff Jason Smith has made a big push to build a new jail.

TULANE

Continued from page 1B

right direction, especially Charity.”

“We’ve had some great conversations,” he added.

‘Socializing the ask’

Last fall, Tulane filed a request for $30 million in capital outlay funds from the 2025-26 budget. The money would be used to pay for a portion of a 297,000-square-foot biomedical research facility in the complex, “a key element of Tulane’s portion of the Charity project,” the document states. Sources familiar with the project have said the request was a “placeholder” request, not an official ask. In order to be considered for capital outlay funds, a request must be filed months before the start of the legislative session. Often, those requests are amended once the session is underway On Wednesday Norton said the university isn’t sure “where the capital outlay request will go at this point.”

DEATH

Continued from page 1B

Wednesday that Colbert and other women prowled New Orleans nightlife hot spots to target men they could ply with drugs and alcohol.

The group referred to Xanax as “knock out,” abbreviated in text messages as “KO.” White provided transportation, helped draw cash from the stolen credit cards or move other stolen property, Fitzmorris said.

In one text to White which Fitzmorris said was related to a different case, Colbert wrote, “Got the phone code. Give me a min. He got money in here and I’m waiting for him to sleep. About to check the ATM then to you.”

At the conclusion of Wednesday’s hearing, Jefferson Parish Criminal Commissioner David Wolff ordered that Colbert, 49 of Slidell, and White 34 of Harvey, continue to be held

“Some ask will be made of the state of Louisiana, whether it’s through the executive branch or legislative branch,” he said. “Today, we’ve been socializing the ask, having great conversations.”

Tulane’s efforts to revitalize the 90-year-old building come as the university is bracing for funding cuts from the Trump administration to biomedical research. Norton said last week those potential cuts could derail not only the Charity project but hamper broader efforts to develop a biomedical corridor on the edge of downtown New Orleans.

The art deco-era landmark is seen as key to a long-envisioned New Orleans biomedical district encompassing the Tulane and LSU medical campuses and surrounding areas.

The project is now four years behind schedule with an estimated price tag that is more than twice what it was in 2018 when LSU, the building’s owner, selected 1532 Tulane to renovate it following a competitive bid process

Though initial remediation work began, construction stalled during the COVID-19 pandemic. Increases

in construction costs and interest rates that followed hampered the ability to secure financing for the project, LSU has said.

To date, 1532 Tulane — a partnership of a local apartment builder named Joseph Stebbins and Israeli financier Yoel Shargian has spent more than $70 million on the project with little to show for it. In 2023, the investors behind 1532 Tulane hired Domain Cos. to essentially take over the project from Stebbins and Shargian.

Throughout, Tulane has remained key to the project’s success and, since mid-2024, has been negotiating with 1532 and Domain to take an ownership stake in the project.

Domain Cos. owner Matt Schwartz did not respond to a request for comment LSU’s Real Estate and Facilities Foundation, which owns the building, declined to comment on the latest developments. Blake Paterson contributed to this story

Email Stephanie Riegel at stephanie.riegel@theadvocate. com.

without bail.

The pair are booked on a range of charges including second-degree murder, robbery and fraud. Attorneys for the pair didn’t return messages seeking comment.

White’s attorneys said during Wednesday’s hearing that White was out of the state when Manzano died, according to WDSU. Jefferson Parish Assistant District Attorney Michael Morales told Wolff that investigators have yet to obtain proof that Colbert gave Manzano drugs, but that there was “loads of circumstantial evidence against

her.”

Earlier toxicology reports showed Manzano had the depressant benzodiazepine in his system, a class of drugs that includes the generic version of Xanax. Colbert and White also exchanged 30 phone calls on the day of Manzano’s death, authorities said.

“The arrest warrant is replete with text message after text message stating her intentions were to drug individuals to obtain their money,” Morales said, adding that unintentionally killing someone during the commission of a robbery is homicide.

Capacity is supposed to be 144, but the jail currently has 242 prisoners, he said. “It’s unsafe and it’s stressful,” not only to prisoners but to his deputies who must work there. A new jail would likely cost in the $20 million to $30 million range, he said. But it won’t be an easy sell to some constituents, and he said officials are studying several different ways to try to raise the money it would require. “I’ve made no secret to wanting a new one.”

Walker couple files excessive force suit

BY CLAIRE GRUNEWALD Staff writer

A Walker couple claims that after they called 911 upon finding their son unresponsive in a pool, police used excessive force, including a Taser, and unlawfully arrested the husband.

Eric and Sarah Courtney filed a lawsuit earlier this month over an incident with the Walker police last April.

On an early morning in April 2024, Sarah Courtney and her husband, Eric, found their young son Issac’s “lifeless body” floating in their swimming pool. They immediately called 911 and several officers arrived.

One officer left and took Issac with him to a nearby hospital causing Eric Courtney to believe his son had died, the lawsuit says. Officer Blake Cavalier then reportedly ordered Eric Courtney to the front of the house and asked for identification, according to the lawsuit.

Eric Courtney was distraught, believing his son died, and when he did not respond in a manner appropriate to Cavalier, the officer became hostile, according to the legal filing.

Cavalier told him to sit down, and when he did not immediately comply, Cavalier “grabbed Mr Courtney’s shoulder with a shoulder lock maneuver throwing him to the ground,” the lawsuit says. Other officers came to assist Cavalier and kneeled on top of Eric Courtney the lawsuit alleges.

“It is alleged on information and belief that Officer Cavalier falsely communicated to the officers that he had been assaulted by Mr Courtney and that Mr Courtney needed to be subdued,” the lawsuit said.

HOUSING

Continued from page 1B

find comparably priced housing for displaced residents of federally subsidized properties and that they pay moving expenses as well. It does not require that residents be allowed to stay together or in proximity to familiar neighborhoods or services.

Jan Bruno, 70, a resident of Christopher Inn, the high-rise complex in the heart of Faubourg Marigny and likely the most valuable of the 15 properties in the Christopher Homes portfolio, said residents are fearful of being evicted if the complex is sold.

“I don’t know why they wouldn’t kick us out. This is prime real estate,” Bruno said “I am still able-bodied and can read and write. It’s not so easy for some of the others. They won’t recover if they’re forced to leave.”

Easier said than done?

While Bruno said the letter came as a surprise to many of the neighbors in her building, Aymond alluded to the possibility earlier this year in an open letter to the city’s 500,000 Catholics.

Christopher Homes was founded by the late Archbishop Phillip Hannan in 1966 and eventually grew to include 21 apartment complexes around the metro area. In the early 2010s, the church sold six of

The lawsuit claims officers then handcuffed Eric Courtney and struck him repeatedly with their knees. An unidentified officer then extracted his Taser, the Courtneys claim.

“Do not TASE him,” the lawsuit quotes Sarah Courtney, who was standing nearby, as saying.

The officer fired the device at Eric Courtney as he was lying face down on the ground in handcuffs, the lawsuit alleges.

Officers transported Eric Courtney to the Livingston Parish Detention Center, where the Courtneys claim he was stripped and placed in a cell. A guard told him he was there “because he refused medical treatment,” the lawsuit states.

Eric Courtney claims that while he was in the cell, he was told his son had a pulse and was going to live, which was the first time he learned that his son was alive.

After his release, Eric Courtney needed medical treatment for a fractured rib, multiple abrasions and contusions, the lawsuit says. He faces criminal charges of resisting arrest by force, battery on Cavalier and damage to a police car

The Courtneys sued Cavalier, the city of Walker and Walker Police Chief David Addison, claiming unlawful detention, unreasonable seizure, excessive force and false arrest. Walker City attorney Robert King said he could not comment on pending litigation. Walker Police spokesperson John Sharpe said Friday he had no knowledge of the police employees receiving the lawsuit.

Email Claire Grunewald at claire.grunewald@ theadvocate.com.

the complexes to Providence Community Housing, a local nonprofit that develops affordable housing. Last fall, it turned over management of the remaining 15 properties to Providence, though it retained ownership. Providence now runs all the properties under the Christopher Homes brand.

The Providence-owned complexes — Annunciation Inn; Nazareth Inn 1 & 2; St John Berchmans; Delille Inn and St. Anne’s — are not for sale. Providence CEO Terri North said in February that her organization would be interested in purchasing the church-owned complexes, though she said the church has not had any discussions with her about it.

The church had received a potential offer from an outof-state investor, who has proposed buying them for as much as $150 million, according to a source familiar with the case. Though the church could sell the properties to a private investor, as a practical matter it’s easier said than done.

“It’s very complicated because all these properties have large HUD mortgages and a lot of regulatory agreements,” North said at the time. “It’s not that you can’t undo those things, but it’s not straightforward. You can’t just come in and throw people out on the street.”

Email Stephanie Riegel at stephanie.riegel@ theadvocate.com.

STAFF PHOTO By MICHELLE HUNTER

Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley stands before a mugshot of Danette Colbert the Slidell woman arrested for allegedly using a credit card belonging to Adan Manzano, a Kansas City reporter found dead in his Kenner hotel room while in town to cover the Super Bowl.

PHOTOS PROVIDED By KENNER POLICE

Danette Colbert, left, and Rickey White were arrested on robbery and fraud charges related to the theft and use of a debit card belonging to deceased Super Bowl reporter Adan Manzano.

Smith

STAFF FILE PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

The abandoned Charity Hospital building on Tulane Avenue in New Orleans is seen Oct. 20, 2023.

Bernard,Artemise

Casby, Richard

Chester, Charleen

Collins, Shirley Hogan, Mildred

Holstein,Robert

Pendelton, Norman

PerkinsSr.,Ira

Sanders,Mary

Shields, Sharon

NewOrleans

Boyd Family

Hogan, Mildred

Charbonnet

Shields, Sharon

DW Rhodes

Chester, Charleen

Collins, Shirley

Gertrude Geddes

Pendelton, Norman West Bank

Robinson FH

Casby, Richard

PerkinsSr.,Ira

Obituaries

wasborninNew Orleans Louisiana on Oct. 25,1941 toWillie& ZelmaSimmons Casby.While living in Louisiana he metLorraine Gilbert andtogetherthey had twochildren, Linda& JeromeCasby.Helater moved to Chicago, Illinois where he livedout there‐minderofhis live life There he met& married Ethel Prim Casby. They had nochildrentogether buthe had severalstepchildren withher.While living in New Orleansheattended school at McDonald 32, thenL.B.LandryHigh School.Hethenworkedat ToddShipYard, The Sewageand WaterBoard Bayroy& on theTub boats. When he movedto Chicago, he worked at the glueFactory &later workedasa Xray Techni‐cian. He wasa manof manytalents.Richard de‐partedhis life fora better homeinglory on March21, 2025. Hishuman spirit has taken flight at thecallof the allwiseand loving God. HereceivedJesus Christ and wasbaptizedatan early ageatFirst Free Mis‐sionBaptist Church in New Orleans.Whenhemoved toChicago Illinois,hebe‐camea member of the Third BaptistChurch and becamea member of the Usher board. Richardwas veryeasytotalkto. He had a greatsense of humor.He gaveyou hisopinions whether youwanteditor not.Hewas outspokenand strongwilled. Richardwas a manwithmuchpride,a Casby traitbyall means. Henever wanted to be a burdentoanyone. He hid his pain from everyone thatloved him. He wasa lovingman that enjoyed being with this children Jerome& LindaCasby and his grandchildren, Jerome Russell,Kenneth,Travis, Rodney& Wilfred Casby. Richard fought agood fight, rana good race and finished thecourseon March 21,2025. He swalk‐ing thestreetsthatare paved in gold. He will be deeply missed butnever forgotten. Richardwas pre‐ceded in deathbyhis par‐entsWillieand Zelma. His four brothers Raymond, James,Curtisand Harry Heissurvivedbyhis brother Willis CasbyJr.,his daughterLinda Casby Robinson(KennethRobin‐son), hisson Jerome Casby (Lynell), EthalPrimCasby, LorraineGilbert Grand‐sons, Kenneth(Tammera) Travis(Paula) Rodney (Jaz‐lynn),& WilfredCasby (Faith).Nephews,Phillips& Harry Jr.Nieces, Latony Smith,sister-in-law,Wanda Casby,devoted andlong‐timefriends 8-Ball,Miss Earline Shields, Donna Jones,Bernardine, Hilda, Pete& NancyRichardson. Alsosurvivedbyhis greatgrandchildren Trayana, Travell,Natirya,RodneyJr. (FatBoy), Willow, Isaish Nola, Jaymia,Sanaya, Zioney, Akaycia, Wynter,& Aeris Bell Casby, anda hostofother relatives& friends.Relatives and friends of thefamilyare in‐vited to attend thecelebra‐tionoflifeservice which willbeheldonSaturday, April 19, 2025, at FirstFree Mission Baptist Church,lo‐cated at 426 Lamarque Street,New Orleans, La 70114. Thevisitationwill begin at 9a.m., andthe service will beginat10 a.m.PastorDerrick Ed‐mondofficiatingand inter‐mentwillfollowatSt. Mark Baptist Church Cemetery 3550 Wall Blvd., New Or‐leans,La. Funeralplanning entrusted to Robinson FamilyFuneralHome, 9611 LA-23, BelleChasse,LA 70037, (504) 208-2119. For onlinecondolences,please visit www.robinsonfamilyf uneralhome.com.

thelateIsabelleNewton and AlvinJosephGuimont A true nurtureratheart, she dedicatedher life to caringfor others as a healthcareworker. CC treated everypatient as if theywereher ownfamily— offering comfort, kindness and compassion in every moment. CC is survived by her devotedhusband, Leslie Ferrande;her loving childrenCocco Harrison (Terry KeithHarrisonSr.) and Ronald Walker of Har‐vey,Louisiana;and her adoredgrandson, Terry Keith Harrison Jr.She also leavesbehindher dear sis‐tersApril Davis, Pamela Wallace,PatriciaWashing‐ton,and Mirrar Dumas; her stepdaughterTabbitha Falkins andstepson Leslie Falkins;and ahostof nieces, nephews, and friends who will always carry hermemoryintheir hearts. Shewas preceded indeath by hersiblingsIs‐abell Sparlot, Gwendowlyn Newton, Tamara Williams, and Carl Guimont. Agrave‐sideservice to celebrate CC’sbeautiful life will be heldonThursday,April 17 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Rest‐lawnParkCemeteryin Avondale, Louisiana. Arrangementsentrusted byDuplain W. Rhodes Fu‐neral Home,1020 Virgil Street,Gretna, LA 70053 Pleasevisit www.rhodesf uneral.comtosignthe on‐lineguestbook,share memories, andcondo‐lencesfor thefamily. CC’s kindspirit, generous heart, and unwavering love touched countless lives. She will be deeply missed byher family, hermany friends,and allwho were fortunate enough to know her

Boutan.She worked for Catholic CharitiesFoster Grandparent Programfor over25years where many ofthose yearswerespent atSt. Mary of theAngles Catholic School.Family and friends, pastors, offi‐cersand membersofGr. St. StephenF.G., also em‐ployees of Home Bank Catholic Charities, Veter‐ans Administration Hospi‐tal,U.S.Army, St.John BerchmanManor andCity ofNew OrleansCodeEn‐forcement areinvited to attendthe FuneralService for ShirleyCollins at Beu‐lah BaptistChurch,2921 FourthStreet,New Orleans, LA70113 on Saturday,April 19, 2025 at 10:00 am with PastorWillieD.BradfordJr. officiating. Visitation be‐ginsat9:00am. Interment: Mt. Olivet Cemetery ArrangementsbyD.W RhodesFuneralHome, 3933 WashingtonAvenue.Please visitwww.rhodesfuner al.comtosignthe guest‐book

Hogan, MildredL

pitalofMarrero,Ochsner Baptist,Mercy Home Agency, CarelonHealth and CouncilonAging of New Orleansare invitedto attend theHomegoing Cel‐ebrationService on Friday, April 18, 2025, for10:00 a.m. atSt. StephenMissionary Baptist Church,1738 L.B. LandryAvenue,New Or‐leans,LA70114. Visitation willbegin at 9:00 a.m. Rev‐erend Doctor Norman N. Francis,officiating. Inter‐mentwillfollowatRest‐lawnParkCemeteryand Mausoleum,3540 US-90, Avondale, LA 70094. Guest‐book Online:www.anewtra ditionbegins.com(504)2820600. Linear Brooks Boyd and DonavinD.BoydOwn‐ers/FuneralDirectors

Bernard,Artemise Holstein, Robert Scott

MildredL.Hogan passed awayonApril 3, 2025, at the ageof82. MildredL Hoganissurvivedbyher daughterD’AngelaM Hoganand sonChristopher E.Hogan,siblings: Herman Lewis,Jr. (Kathy), Wilbur Lewis (Mary),Rayfield Lewis (Kathy), Geraldine Mattear Lewis(Late Earl), Anthony Lewis(Debbie), and CharlesLewis.Also survivedbya host of nieces, nephews, godchil‐dren: GregoryGreen JuanestaBush, Petrinity Bridges,and otherrela‐tives andfriends.Preceded indeath by Audrey L. Jack‐son (Thomas),Shirley L. Mounsey,Velma Lewisand Kenneth Lewis. Family and friends,Oakwood Family Clinic,WestJefferson Hos‐

Artemise MaeWilliams Bernard,a retiredDietary TechatVAHospitalNew Orleans,passedawayon April 6, 2025, at theage of 78. Artemise Bernardis survivedbyfourchildren: JenniferLynnBernard,San‐dra BernardLucas,Kaylyn Bernard,JosephBernard, III, grandchildren: Marcus Bernard,AlfredBernard AronBernard,AndrewJ Clark,CymoneRichardson, Sanai Richardson, Jala Bernard,Jalen Bernard, Jalei Bernard, great-grand‐children: Andrew J. Clark, Jr.,A’laniClark,Ayden White; belovedniece Char‐lotte Jones, andlongtime friend, EvaMae Young‐blood of Mississippi.Also survivedbythree brothers: MarshallWilliams, Jr Sid‐ney Williams andRandy Williams,one sister Stella Ann JamesofLaplace,LA, and ahostofnephews nieces, relatives, and friends.Artemisewas pre‐ceded in deathbyher hus‐bandof56yrs., Joseph Bernard,Jr.,mother, ArtemiseEzidore Williams, father, Marshall Williams Sr.;sisters:Annie Lee Emory,PriscillaWilliams and NormaWilliams, brothers: Murray Williams Sr. andNormanWilliams. Familyand friends and members of theVAHospi‐tal of NewOrleans, FranklinAvenueBaptist Church,First Community Antioch BaptistChurchare invited to attend theCele‐bration of Life Serviceon Saturday, April19, 2025,for 10:00 a.m. at AmozionBap‐tistChurch,907 Deslonde Street,New Orleans, LA 70117. Visitation will begin at9:00a.m.Rev.Dr. Charles Mack, officiating. Inter‐mentwillfollowatProvi‐dence Memorial Park and Mausoleum,Metairie, Louisiana.Guestbook On‐line: www.anewtraditionbe gins.com(504)282-0600 LinearBrooksBoydand Donavin D. Boyd Own‐ers/Funeral Directors. Chester, Charleen 'CC' In Loving Memory of Charleen "CC" Chester, July30, 1952 -April 14, 2025 Charleen Chester, lovingly known as “CC” to allwho knewher,passedaway peacefullyathomeon A 7 b N J th

“Whenpeace,likea river attendethmyway, whensorrows like seabil‐lowsroll; whatevermylot, thouhasttaughtmetosay itiswellwithmysoul” Shirley MaeWestCollins, 91ofNew Orleans, LA passedawaypeacefully fromthislifeonMonday, March 31, 2025, at home surrounded by herloving family. Shirleywas born on September 14, 1933, in New Orleans,LAtoparents Robertand Millie(Clayton) WestSr. Blessedwith91 years of life,Shirley wasa devoted andloving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother,aunt and friend to many.She was knownfor herkind‐nessand generosity and alwaysgivinga crisp$2.00 billfor specialoccasions! Herswas alifelived to its fullest andevery moment cherished andenjoyed.She was agenuine soul,who alwaysspoke hermind. And herfamilywas indeed her joy! Sheissurvivedby her children:GailM Collins,Sharleen S. Collins, Barbara C. (Terrance) Howardand Kareem A. Collins;Her grandchildren: Kenya (Edwin)Daniels, KeitraBoutan, Sheldon Howard, John Muwwakki, Amina Muwwakki,Amira Roth, PaigeHoward (Dwight)Wells,Michael Collins;(17)great-grand‐childrenand ahostof nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Sheispre‐ceded in deathbyher par‐ents: Robert andMillie WestSr.;Her siblings: Ceola,Joseph, George, RobertJr. Daniel West;one daughter: CassandraD Collins,Charles Collins, LawrenceWilliams, and her twograndsons,Gre‐goryFranklinand Avonn

'Bob' Robert Scott Holstein passed away on April 11, 2025. He was theson of the lateJames andMary Holstein. Bob wasbornin Springfield, Minnesota,on July 24, 1956. After college, he moved to theNew

Collins, ShirleyMae West

Bernard, Artemise MaeWilliams

Casby, RichardRoland

RichardRolandCasby (betterknown as Booster)

Orleans area and began a career in sales, ultimately finding his passion as afinancial advisor. He instilled in his children the importance of hard work, kindness, and generosity—values that would guide them throughout their adult lives. Bob was endlessly supportive, always showing up for the people he loved—with a great sense of humor, a kind heart, and awillingness to do whatever it took to help someone in need.

Alifelong athlete, he never lost his love of the game—there was always a ballgame playing in the background. Bob loved an adventure and never turned down the chance to try something new.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Daigle Holstein; his four children, Scott Robert Holstein (Caroline) Bradley James Holstein (Ashley), Ryan Michael Holstein (Katherine), and Marci HolsteinBraud (Matthew);aswell as his seven grandchildren: Collins, Quinn, Lily, James, Hadley,Lola, and Wesley. He was the brother of James Holstein and the late Susan Schenkel.

Bob loved his wife, children, and grandchildren beyond expression. His absence leaves aprofound void, but his love and laughter will remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

ACelebration of Life will be held Saturday, April 19th, at Lakeside Country Club in the Pontchartrain Room from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

also aMailClerk at Tulane Universityand aUnited StatesMarineCorp Vet‐eran. Norman wasthe lov‐ing father of JoiNicholle Pendelton.Beloved brother ofBeverly Pendelton, Carol Domio andBernadette.He was also survived by three grandchildren Darren (D.J.) Pendelton,DeJaunPendel‐ton,DestineeHenderson, and ahostofnieces, nephews,cousins,family and friends. Normanwas precededindeath by his parents Lucius Murphy Pendelton "Snook"and BessieM.Pendelton;and his brothers Lucius Pendel‐ton andRonaldPendelton Relatives andfriends of the familyare invitedtoattend the CelebrationofLifeSer‐viceonSaturday, April19, 2025, at Gertrude Geddes Willis FuneralHome, 2120 Jackson Avenue,New Or‐leans,LA70113 at 12:30 p.m.Visitationfrom11:30 a.m.until 12:30 p.m. Private Burial. Youmay sign the guest book on http://www gertrudegeddeswillis.com. Gertrude Geddes Willis Fu‐neral Home,Inc., in charge (504) 522-2525.

PerkinsSr.,Ira Charles

IraCharles PerkinsSr., age 40,entered into eternal restMondayMarch 31, 2025. Belovedson of Ira JohnWillisand Sabrina Perkins Trice(thelate HowardTrice), hisloving wife, Michelle Amos Perkins,fatherof, Me'Shira, IraCharles Jr., Beyonce andKamryn. His mother-in-law MadgeNick‐erson(Dwayne Sumler), he Pendelton, Norman Joseph

Norman Joseph Pendel‐ton,age 74 wasbornon February14, 1951, in New Orleans,LApassedaway peacefullyonTuesday April 8, 2025.Hewas a graduateofWalterL CohenHighSchool.Hewas

wasthe siblingofTawann Latrice Perkins(Kendrick Powell) andtwo step sib‐lings Antanea& Howard Trice Jr.Hewas theuncle ofAniyah, Raniyah, Ta'Leah,Kennedi,Kennan, Paul, Howard Ill, carmen, Ziyone, Zyrah, Kelvin Ky’Mani,Makhyah,Kyrie, Messiah andMichael Jr his love foreachwas im‐measurable. Iraworkedas a sandblasterand painter, his finaljourney waswith Delta Coating. Irawillbe rememberedfor hisloveof family, taking care of his car,watchingthe first48, ForensicFilesand going to the second line everySun‐day.Ira leaves behind his motherand father,his wife and 4children, his2sis‐ters, 1brother,3 uncles,6 aunts, anda host other familymembers andclose friends to cherishhis memories. He is proceeded indeath by hisdaughter Keira Perkins, hisgreat grandparentsGeorge& CeloPerkins,his grand‐motherTheresa Willis and LorrainePerkins,his grandfather Clem Carr & James Martin,3 uncles Rayfield, Alvin, andWilliam Willis,and 1aunt Cindy Willis.His familyprays that his soul haslandedupon Eternal Peaceand that his memorylives on in the heartsofthose who were touched by hiswarmthand kindness. Although he will besadly missed, He will never be forgotten. Rela‐tives andfriends of the familyare invitedtoattend the celebrationoflifeser‐vicewhich will be held on Saturday, April19, 2025, at Victory ChristianChurch Internationallocated at 411 OpelousasAvenue, New Orleans, LA 70114. The visitationwillbegin at 9 a.m andthe servicewill begin at 10 a.m. Bishop LeroyPhoenix officiating

andinterment will follow atWoodlawn Cemetery in Westwego, La.Funeral planningentrusted to RobinsonFamilyFuneral Home9611 La -23, Belle Chasse,La70037 (504) 2082119. Foronlinecondo‐lencespleasevisit www robinsonfamilyfuneralho me.com

Sanders, Mary Ella

Mary Ella "Peanut" Sanders departedthis life on SaturdayMarch 1, 2025 after atwo year battle with cancer. She is survived by her loving sons Ellis and Elton Sanders, daughters in lawAurora and Malkia Sanders, grandchildrenTy, Kalise, and Sky Sanders and sister, Priscilla Ann "Nonnie" Fisher. She is preceded in deathbyher parents Albert and Bessie Jones, brother Joseph Carlton"Buppie" Jones, and grandsonKane Sanders

Shields, Sharon Ann

Sharon AnnShields,wife ofRonaldShields.Daugh‐ter of Sylvester“Daylone” Sr. andMarie NancyJohn‐son.Stepdaughterof JacquelineJohnson Daughter-in-law of thelate CarrieFergusonand Edison Shields.MotherofTimoll “Marty” Aronld (Sandra Aronld),Quiniata“Missy” Johnson andFrank “Doug” Johnson,(CarlesaJohn‐son). Stepmother of CharmineHarrisonand RonaldJoseph. Sister of Sylvester,Jr.,ZinaFernan‐dez,Lisaand KevinJohn‐son,the late Roxanne, Kerry andCharleneJohn‐son,RelesterJohnson Cain, Bruce,Benard, Earlineand Sellers Johnson; Grand‐motherofKeith K. and Dovonta “Debo” Sentmore Timoll, Jr., Tykay, Leandra, Joe,Elijahand Jazzlyn Aronld, Trinity, Diamond, Jakoreyun,Frank,Jr. and Azari Johnson, Ronisha Theophile,Ronaldand Ray‐mon Williams andthe late Lionell Clark. Greatgrand‐motherofJa’nyaand Si’ron Theophile,Sevyn andSaige Celestine,Ry’laiand Cody Williams;Sisterinlaw of Phyllis Terrell, Kendra Jones,Shawn Johnson, TemekaJohnson andthe lateShawn Terrell, Edison Francis,Kevin Fernandez, GeorgeThiel,Anthony Ter‐rell andBernard Ferguson

OUR VIEWS

LSU gymnastics againreaches forthe high bar

As LSU gymnasts makea run fora repeat in thenational championships in Fort Worth, Texas, at the NCAA meet,whichstarts today, we must take time to praise thesolidarity of this team.

Last year,when the teamwon itsfirst gymnastics national championships in school history,the odds were thatitwould beafavorite this year.After all, several of thesuperstarsof the 2024 championship season returnedfor an encore. They include HaleighBryant, Sierra Ballard, Chase Brock, Aleah Finnegan,Konnor McClain, Alyona Shchennikovaand Olivia Dunne. And the team added promising newcomers, including freshman Kailin Chio,who had a standout seasononvault and wasnamed SEC Freshman of the Year

Yetthe only thing harder in sports than getting to the top of the mountain is staying there. This season, LSU gymnastsshowedtheywere up for the challenge. Despiteafew hiccups, including an upset loss to Arkansas in January that coach Jay Clark called “growing pains,” the team managed to stay focused.Wemust add here that Clark and his team havebeen outstandinginbuilding this program, andwe’re glad LSU can keep such talent despite efforts to lure him away Clark called on the teamtostepupits mental toughness, and it responded.Onits waytothe NCAA championships, LSU was able to plow down thecompetition andhas not losta meet since Jan. 24. It entered the tournament as theNo. 1seed, winningregionals with itshighestscore ever However,the semifinal field featureseight teams, each with astrongshot at the title.Some have along gymnastics pedigree, like Oklahoma, which won the two previousNCAA championships before LSU derailed its three-peat chances in athriller lastyear.Some arehungry forredemption, includinga UCLA team that hasn’twon atitle since the2003-24 season but is led by Olympian Jordan Chiles. Aftertoday’s competition, the top two teamsineach semifinal will compete in the finals on Saturday. In addition to the team competition,LSU gymnastics is also highly favored forsome individualawards. Bryant,who wonthe SEC allaround title in March, will belookingtodefend theNCAAall-around title shewon last year Safe to say, we expect there will be fireworks at Dickies Arena for the nextfew days.All eyes will be on LSU gymnasts as so many seniors are looking to end their collegecareer on ahigh note. Whatever happens, we say they’re already winners. Their success hasnodoubt been abig reason for the increasing crowds at women’s gymnastics events around thecountry andinterest in women’ssportsingeneral. When we look at this team, we see thekind of camaraderie and dedicationthat we know will lead them to succeed in whatever the futureholds.

TheAdvocate |The Times-Picayune require astreet address andphone number for verification purposes, but that information is not published. Letters are not to exceed 300 words. Letters to the Editor,The Advocate, P.O. Box 588, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-0588, or email letters@ theadvocate.com. TO SEND US A

OPINION

Localclergycalledontolead outreach to ICEdetainees

Twointernational studentsinthe U.S., one with agreen card and another on avisa, have now been arrested in or near their homes in New York and Massachusetts. They are being detained in Louisiana while awaiting deportation for having protested or signed editorials concerning theturbulent situation in the Middle East.

As an American citizen, Iamoutraged. Ienjoy aconstitutional right to freedom of expression and believe that this rightextends to those who visit and otherwise reside in our country. As aChristian, Iamalso outraged. Christ instructs his followers to give refuge to therefugee and to care for all those who are in distress,regardless of whether we identify them as friends or enemies.

News reports suggest that federal authorities in Louisiana are denying thetwo detained students visits with family,friends and lawyers. This kind of isolation must be terrifying.

Websites for the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement sites in our

The people of St. TammanyParish have spoken —the library millagehas passed. This victory is aresounding statement that our community values access to knowledge, books and public resources despiterelentless attacks from censors and extremists. Butmake no mistake—the fight is far from over Now,the ParishCouncil and Library Boardmust stop playing political games and do what’s right:protect free access to information and uphold the integrity of our libraries.

We are deeply grateful to every voter,advocateand supporter who stood up for our libraries. Your voices ensured that St. Tammany continues to have well-funded, accessible libraries for all. Butfunding alone is not enough. We must remain vigilant against censorship, political interference and those who seek to dictatewhat we can and cannot read. Voterssent aclear message: We believe in our libraries. The Parish

state, however,all indicate that “clergy may visit detainees at anytime,” by prior arrangementwith the office of thechaplain or religious coordinator at each site. Most of the ICEfacility websites give telephone numbers for these offices.

Iurge local clergy of whatever denomination to contact these offices and to meet regularly with these detaineesina spirit of charity.Archbishop Gregory Aymondhas in the past made clear public statements on behalf of immigrants and refugees, reminding local Catholics that Christ mandates our welcome and protection of them. I urge him especially,inanecumenical spirit,toreach out to faith leaders in thedetainees’ own religious traditions and to encourage them to visit the detainees.

By providing spiritual comfort and reassurance, clergy will remind ICE officials and the general public of the detainees’ essential humanity

MICHAEL P. KUCZYNSKI NewOrleans

Council must takenote —this communitydemands leadership that protects intellectual freedom, stops caving to extremist pressureand restores public trust in thelibrary board.

Winning themillage is just the first step. Now,wedemand real change, including:

1. Rescinding censorship policies: We must eliminate any policies restricting book access based on political agendas.

2. Appointing alibrary boardthatreflects thecommunity.The board must value libraries,not censorship and political meddling.

3. Keeping politics outofour libraries. The Parish Council mustprotect the library systemfrom ideological attacks. This victory proves that censorship has no place in St.Tammany.But we must stay engaged, stay vocal and continue thefight for intellectual freedom.St. TammanyParish voters have spoken.

KRISTEN LUCHSINGER St. Tammany LibraryAlliance

highlightshow little leveeboard expertisematters

Ihave been following the controversy over the system by which members are nominated forappointment to the Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection AuthorityEast (SLFPA-E). Iserved on the SLFPA-E foreight years (20082016) and served as president from June 2014 to June 2015. The members of the board during my tenure werethe best of the best in termsofcoastal flooding, working material, right-of-way acquisition, subsidence and storm surge modeling.

What Idiscovered while serving on the SLFPA-E wasthat the U.S. ArmyCorps of Engineers ruled all things. Our input on design, maintenance and modeling wasnot seriously considered by the Corps. Here are afew examples:

The design of the “T” wall was roundly criticized by board members because there wasnomechanism to replace soils beneath the “T” wall that would fall away because of subsidence. We were assured this would be addressed in the final design. It wasnot! The Corps decided, over the objections of the board, to install the sheet-piles beneath the “T” wall without protective coating.

There are countless other examples of the Corps doing it their Corps wayand the opinion of the SLFPA-E be damned.

Isurmise, from articles and opeds published by the newspaper, the editors believe that the present system provides expert professionals to serve on SLFPA-E. The expertise of SLFPA-E members is irrelevant.

Any group of reasonably honest and intelligent people can comply with the responsibility of maintaining the flood system.Weappoint the first nine people coming out of church on Sunday and not affect the design or operational procedures of the flood reduction system

The Corps manuals must be followed. Repairs, renovations and adjustments to operating procedures will be designed and dictated by the Corps.

STEPHENESTOPINAL

Gonzales

COMMENTARY

ON THERECORD LOUISIANAAGRICULTURE COMMISSIONER MIKESTRAIN

‘Everybody’s gottoeat’

Louisiana Commissioner of Agriculture Mike Strain sat down with columnists Faimon Roberts and Stephanie Grace recently to talkabout farmers, tariffs, the economy and other topics affecting the industry today.This conversation has been edited for length and clarity

Roberts: What do you see as the biggest challenges to agriculture in the upcoming year?

Stephanie Grace Faimon Roberts

Strain: The biggest challenge right now is the low commodityprices, and we’re working desperately to get that up. Now,you wouldn’tthink that when you go to the grocery to buy food products, that there’sa huge disconnect between what the farmer gets and what is going on at retail.

We’re at the end of the season, when you would expect the prices to be higher.And if you look at theprice of soybeans, they’ve been hovering at or below $10 or so. If you look at rice, $13, $14, that’sjust too low.And so for many of our farmers, if thecommodities prices do not riseacross America, then they’re going to have big issues going intonext year on getting crop loans.

Grace: So we’re seeing high grocery prices —everyone’s talking about this —but lowcommodity prices. Where the disconnect?

Strain: The disconnect is the fact that inflation pressures supply and demand, and the increased cost due to inflation from the point of processing forward is being borne by the consumer From that point on, different entities set the price and the farmer is basically told: This is what you’re going to get. There’salso the disruption in the worldwide economy,worldwidemarket issues dealing with the value of the American dollar versus foreign currency.It’s making it harder for us toexport and cheaper for us to import, which adversely affects the price of our commodities, because our commodities are sold in dollars. And since the dollar is much stronger than the euro, the pound, the yen and yuan, it is much more difficult for us toexport. Forty percent of the value of these commodities is based on the export market. So across the board, we import in all goods and commodities over atrillion dollarsmore than we export in the United States. The imbalance of trade agriculturally is going to be between $45 and $55 billion.

Grace: Do tariffshelp?

Strain: So you have to look on amacroeconomics level with tariffs, and also look at what tariffs can do. And with tariffs, the problem is we are exporting money out and not importing money in through all of our products. This is putting astrain on our entire financial system, driving the imbalance in the currencies, andyou see it in the foreign currencies being driven down by the amount of dollars we’re putting into the foreign economies. We’ve got to move more goods offshore. If you look at our soybeancrop, athird or more of our entire crop has to be exported. We’re the largest exporter of food in the world, twice thesize of Ukraine.

And we have got to move those markets, increase supply going out and get abetter,amore favorabledollar

ExportingLouisiana products

Roberts: We’ve seen news stories about the cuts to USAID harming Louisiana and other farming

state’sexports. What impact are those having?

Strain: That’sgoing to be remain to be seen. If you look specifically at rice withUSAID, between Louisiana and Arkansas, we’re the two largest producers. Fifty percent of the rice crop is shipped outside the country.If you look at USAID, 5% to 10% of the entire rice crop that is shipped out is for food aid. So if youtake 10% of 50%, that’s 5% of the total rice crop that’s shipped out for food aid.

Thebottom line is that the world’shungry,and there are a lotof parts of the world that are not getting adequate nutrition. If you take the islandofCuba, the average Cuban is 250 to 275 calories short per day,everyday, and that’s happening across the world.

Oncethesemonetary things are corrected, Ithink you’regonna see agreater demand for the products we have. The bottom line is thatweare continuing to consume more across the world thanwe’re producing, we’re eating into inventories, but at some point the inventory is going to get too tight, and that’s going to cause —hopefully not arapid rise in commodity prices —but it is going to cause ariseincommodity prices.

Grace: Ithink I’m hearing you say thatyou think that these aid programs should continue. Is thatright?

Strain: Well, Imean, Iguessfor the sake of the farmers and also forthe people who are receiving food, which is the greatest form of diplomacy

We need to look in these programs to find out where the waste, fraud and abuse are and clean that up, period. Now,with thatbeing said, wherever we can feed those thatare starving, we need to do that —but we’ve got to look at where the money is really going.

Grace: Have you seen diversions?

Strain: Ihaven’t,because most of that’shandled federally

Roberts: What are you hearing from rice farmers?

Strain: They’realittlenervous right now,because no one knows exactly what’s goingtohappen. Normally,most of the rice is going into the ground by Valen-

tine’sDay.Soyou’re seeing the rice being planted. We got to plant therice so we can have the crawfish, right?And so thefarmers, they’re gonnaplant,and then we’re gonna work really hard to try to get good commodity prices

Roberts: What aresome markets that are outtherethat you think we should be getting into?

Strain: Pacific Rim, looking at India specifically,and maybe South America, Mexico as well. We’re shipping alot of rice to Cuba.

Roberts: In thelast few years, we’ve seen sort of an unprecedented runofweather events in Louisiana.

Strain: Ag commissioners recognizethat we live with the climate changing, and it’simperative upon us to start looking ahead and be better prepared. We know that plant pests anddiseasecan generally be foundalatitude further north than 10 yearsago. And we’re recognizing that we need to try to be prepared and start looking ahead.

Waitingonthe Farm Bill

Roberts: What impact has thedelay in theFarm Bill had in Louisiana, and what you would like to see in anew Farm Bill?

Strain: I’mthinking thenew Farm Bill, we’re going to have to make sure we have adequate and consistentfarming funding for theforeign ag service so that we can do theoutreach and get into themarkets. We need to make sure that we are stepping up on research to deal withany emerging diseases that may be there. We also need to makesurethat crop insurance is adequate and thereference prices are correct. Don’tput all these programs in and have reference prices that are 10 years out of date. Reference prices and yields, they need to be correct.

Grace: Will it be adifferent process because of the atmosphere up there than it hasbeen in the past?

Strain: Ithink alot of the legwork has been done. This thing should have been passed two yearsago, right?Sowhen it gets down to the bottom line, once it’s all written out, then you’re gonna have SNAPversus commodities.

Grace: SNAPhas become very politicized. Do you think SNAP

should be altered?

Strain: Well, whatIwould like to see is that we raise incomes up enough to where people don’t have to rely on it. No one in this country should ever go hungry Iwould like to seeittowhere people are earning their way off those programs.

Political evolution

Grace: Let’sshift alittle to state politics.Itseems from the outside that politicshas changed quiteabit over the periodyou’ve been in office. Howdoyou think it’s changed?

Strain: In my family,webelieve that of allthose things that God gives us,wegot to give back,and it’s in public service. So as you recall, Ireplacedmycousin in theLegislature,Big Bill Strain. He was there like 28 years. At that time, there were far fewer Republicans, there were more Democrats. But it wasa very, verycordial. Idon’t see it as being quiteascordialasitwas.

Grace: It’sbecome much more partisan

Strain: Andwealways talked about that we didn’twantitto become partisanbecause Iwork with all sides of the aisle, Democrats, Republican,even those independents. That’sjust my naturetodothat. My legislative instruments, Inever looked at when Iaskedthe author,Democrat or Republican,it’swho’sthe champion of thatissue

Grace: It seems like everything’s aparty-line vote these days.

Strain: Butnot in agriculture Everybody’sgot to eat. Their constituents buy groceries. Iget along fine with Troy Carter.He and Iare good friends. And Ican talktoTroyjust like I’m talking to Clay Higgins or Julia Letlow or any of them.

Grace: There have been controversies over how much former agricultural land has been taken up by solar farms. How has that affected the farmers in the state?

Strain: If youlose10,000 acres of sugar,you could lose amill. That’sabig deal.It(solar) needs to be on land of minimalfoodproducing value

Roberts: Ialso wantedtoask about the condition and the future of the timber industry in Louisiana.

Strain: Oneofthe issuesthat

we’re continuing to battle is the dumping of Canadiantimber on the American market. The Canadians dump softwoods on ourmarkets, depressing our markets.

And so overall, we have gotto getinterest ratesdownsowecan rebuild andstart building more houses. Do we need Canadian timberfor that? No, sir,wegot plenty.Wehavemassive amount of timber.

The otherthing thatweare doing is developing additional utilizationfor the timber.We have 15 million acres of farmed softwoods andabout 3.6 million acres of hardwoods. So that’s18.6 million acres.Like with Drax, where we mix hardwood and some soft wood. We send that to England andEurope, where they burn it forelectricity

Gettingshrimprules right

Grace: Before we wrap up, what should we be looking at coming from youinthe legislative session?

Strain: Ithink we will see some changesinthe wayseafood is dealtwith that, because it’svery complicated what we’re doing now. We areinspecting imported seafood,but we areworking on a contract underCRT through the shrimp safety task force, along with wildlife andfisheries and the seafood promotion board and health andhospitals. So it’svery complicated.But Ican tell you we aretesting seafood, we are looking at labels. The shrimp industry is struggling to survive.Wehavereally gottoworktohelppromote Louisiana shrimp. If you go back to my first days in the Legislature, we had big shrimp boils. Now we have crawfishboils. We really pushedand promotedthe crawfish industry And nowthe crawfishindustry, it’s$250, $300 million ayear,but the shrimping industry is dying on the vine What’sonthe menu has got to be what’sbeing served. Now, if youchoosetoserve foreign shrimp, that’sfine.You can’tsay thatit’sLouisiana shrimp when it’simported. Youcan’tdothat because consumer has aright to knowwhatthey’re eating and to be protected

STAFFPHOTO By HILARy SCHEINUK

Agriculture Commissioner MikeStrain

SPORTS

Kelly predicts quiet spring portal for LSU

BY WILSON ALEXANDER Staff writer

When the transfer portal opened in December, LSU had to address needs throughout the roster. It was a critical stretch for the football program, and coach Brian Kelly vowed the coaching staff would be aggressive.

LSU ended up signing 16 transfers, giving it one of the top classes in the country And because of how much it got done at the time,

“I like our roster right now It wouldn’t surprise me if we didn’t have anybody in the portal on either side, leaving our program or adding.”

BRIAN KELLy,

LSU

coach

Kelly struck a different tone before the transfer portal opened again Wednesday “I like our roster right now,” Kelly said. “It wouldn’t surprise

me if we didn’t have anybody in the portal on either side, either leaving our program or adding. If you asked me right now, I would be happy to take this roster right

into May on both sides of it.”

Although that indicates LSU won’t be as active in the spring portal window, Kelly acknowledged players could leave at any time from now until April 25. LSU also may pursue transfers if they fit positional needs and come at the right price.

“If something shows itself that is an incredible opportunity, we’re certainly going to investigate any time that we can help our football team,” Kelly said. “We’re always

going to be looking to help our team, but it’s not like it was obviously in January.”

A defensive tackle and safety likely would top the wish list. LSU hosted multiple transfer safeties in the winter portal window but only signed NC State redshirt sophomore Tamarcus Cooley It doesn’t have proven defensive tackles, and similarly, offensive tackles may be considered

BY MATTHEW PARAS

Staff writer

When the Saints drafted Kool-Aid McKinstry in the second round last year, there was a question around when the cornerback would see the field because of how stacked the team was at the position. Life can change fast in the NFL, huh?

Just one year later, cornerback is a huge need for the Saints. Marshon Lattimore and Paulson Adebo — last year’s Week 1 starters — are gone. McKinstry and Alontae Taylor are in line to replace them, but there’s no doubt New Orleans could use additional help in the secondary With defensive coordinator Brandon Staley installing a new scheme, the Saints likely will look for a different kind of cornerback than Dennis Allen preferred. Let’s take a look at who could be a perfect match. Will Johnson, Michigan

A defensive playmaker, Johnson had nine interceptions in three years at Michigan. The 6-foot-2, 194-pounder has good size and plays with a fluidness that allows him to be in position to force turnovers. According to NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein, Johnson “is at his best when playing with his eyes forward instead of chasing routes down the field.” That might fit well if Staley implements more zone coverage for the Saints next season. The former Los Angeles Chargers coach ran zone coverage 67.1% of the time in his two-plus seasons at the helm, whereas that number was 60.6% for New Orleans

See SAINTS, page 3C

a UL transfer, is expected to be picked in the first three rounds of the NFL draft next week

BY SCOTT RABALAIS Staff writer

FORT WORTH, Texas Aleah Finnegan can’t count the number of times she has watched the 2024 NCAA gymnastics finals

“It’s a memory you just can’t beat,” she said.

Especially the ending. LSU finished on balance beam, with Finnegan basically needing to avoid a fall to clinch the program’s first NCAA team championship. Lele, as she’s known by her teammates, didn’t fall. She soared. Finnegan glided through her trademark back handspring, back layout, back layout switch

leap triple combination, then nailed her gainer full dismount for a 9.95.

As soon as she finished, Finnegan burst into tears as she fell into assistant coach Ashleigh Gnat’s arms. All the years, all the competitions, all the endless hours of practice had paid off in the ultimate moment for Finnegan and LSU.

“Every so often someone will come up to me and say where they were,” Finnegan said.

Where Finnegan and the Tigers are now is right back where they triumphed last April. Back at Dickies Arena, trying to win a second straight NCAA title. Their quest starts Thursday night as No. 1 overall seed LSU competes at

8 p.m in Semifinal II against No 4. Utah, No. 5 UCLA and No.

“Last

Pelicans’ Benson explains reasons for hiring Dumars

N.O. owner lauds ex-NBA star’s record as player, executive

BY ROD WALKER Staff writer

Gayle Benson wasted little time finding the next person to be in charge of the New Orleans Pelicans Benson explained her decision Wednesday morning when the team officially announced Joe Dumars as the new executive vice

president of basketball operations. “Joe’s achievements as a renowned Hall of Fame player NBA champion and front office executive are indisputable,” Benson said in a written statement. “I have a great deal of respect for what Joe has already accomplished as a player and executive, but more importantly I admire his character and leadership His vast experience and relationships throughout

the NBA, along with his strong leadership qualities, will have a tremendous impact on our organization and our goal of winning an NBA championship.” Dumars replaces David Griffin, who spent six seasons in the role. Griffin was fired on Monday, a day after the Pelicans finished their season with a 21-61 record. It’s the second-worst record in franchise history Benson hired Dumars less than 48 hours later

“As we went through this past season, I gave it a lot of careful thought and reflection relative to how we need to move this organi-

zation forward and what kind of leadership that will take,” Benson said. “Joe was someone I was very familiar with, having dealt with him over the past few years at league meetings. My decision today was not hastily made, and not without spending valuable time talking to players, coaches and league officials. That input was critical.” Dumars, a Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer, starred with the Detroit Pistons in the late 80s and early 90s and won two NBA titles as a player He moved to the Pistons’ front office in

and helped build a team that won the NBA championship in the 200304 season. He spent the past three seasons as executive vice president of basketball operations for the NBA. Now Dumars, a Natchitoches native who starred at McNeese State, returns to

ä See KELLY, page 3C

STAFF PHOTO

MICHAEL JOHNSON LSU gymnast Aleah Finnegan breaks into tears after she realized her routine

championship on April 20 at Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas.

On TV

COLLEGE BASEBALL

6p.m. Virginia at FloridaSt. ACCN

7p.m. Alabama at LSU ESPNU

7p.m. Texas A&M at Arkansas SECN

WOMEN’S COLLEGE GYMNASTICS

3:30 p.m. NCAA Semifinals ESPN2

WOMEN’S COLLEGE LACROSSE

5p.m. North Carolina at DukeESPNU

7p.m. Michigan at NorthwesternBTN COLLEGE SOFTBALL

5p.m. Mississippi at GeorgiaSECN GOLF

1p.m. PGA: RBCHeritageGolf

5p.m. LPGA: JM EagleGolf

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL

11:30 a.m.Washington at Pittsburgh MLBN

5:40 p.m. Kansas City at DetroitFS1

6:05 p.m.N.y.yankees at Tampa BayPRIME

8:30 p.m.L.A.Angels at Texas MLBN NHL

6p.m.Washington at Pittsburgh ESPN

8:30 p.m.Calgary at Los Angeles ESPN MEN’S SOCCER

11:40 a.m.BetisatJagiellonia Bialystok CBSSN

2p.m.Rangers at Athletic Bilbao CBSSN

LSUbullpen on rise,but Guidry out

BY KOKI RILEY Staff writer

The bad news LSU fanswere dreading became areality Tuesday Juniorright-handerGavin Guidry is officially out for the season. Coach Jay Johnson announcedGuidry willundergo season-ending backsurgeryFriday and spend the nextthree to four months recovering.

“He’sa terrific human being, and he hashandled this better than anybody Iwould have ever expected to handle this,”junior Jared Jones said. “He’sthe best competitor on our team, even though he’snot pitching.And I know this is hard for him,and I’m going to try andbethere and support him as best Ican.”

LSU hasn’thad Guidry at its disposal since he suffered the injury during thefirstweek of the season. Since he hasn’tpitched this season, it won’tchange how Johnson utilizes his bullpen

“There’sreally no change,” Johnson said, “because we’ve been operating without (him) the whole season.”

Johnson will need other relievers to step forwardasLSU gears up for apostseason push.

That charge begins Thursday when the Tigers kick off the secondhalf of their Southeastern Conference scheduleagainst Alabama at Alex Box Stadium (7 p.m., ESPNU).

“Super excited about the future of our pitching staff,” Johnson said. “For the rest of this year and for the years to come.”

Junior right-hander Zac Cowan and freshman right-hander Casan Evans have been staples in the bullpen all season without Guidry Cowan has a0.79 ERA in 34 innings, and his walk rate is at 4.7%.

Evans holds a0.73 ERA andleads the team in strikeout rate among pitchers who have thrown at least 10 innings this season (39.4%).

Evans and Cowan becomingtwo of the better relievers in the sport has created ahigher floor for the bullpen. Whether Johnson can get the rest of his relievers on asimilar track will determine theunit’s fate.

Last weekend against Auburn and Tuesday night vs. McNeese State were steps in the right direction. In LSU’slastfour games, relievers not named Cowan and Evans have a1.46 ERA in 121/3 innings.

“I think we’reexpanding that window of guys that we really can go to in any situation,” Johnson

STAFF PHOTO

LSUpitcherGavin Guidrydelivers apitch against Ole Miss on May16at AlexBox Stadium.Guidry,who has not pitched this season,was ruled outfor therest of 2025and will have back surgeryFriday

said. Those relievers also walkedonly four batters.For the bullpen,commanding the baseballhas been a problem for much of this season.

Juniorleft-hander Conner Ware, junior right-hander Connor Benge,redshirt sophomore lefthander DJ Primeaux and freshman right-hander Mavrick Rizy have been called upon in some big spots in SEC play,but they’ve had atendency of handing outfree passes.

Benge and Ware have walked at least six batters per nine innings. Rizy has hitthree batters and walked eight others in 162/3 innings. Primeaux has hit five batters andwalked six in nine innings.

“Some daysyou don’t have it,” Rizy said, “but on those days, it’s like, ‘Can you bring it withyour best stuff that you have for that day?’

Benge allowed an earned run on Tuesday but got LSU out of ajam in the fourthinning. Primeaux and Ware threw acombined 21/3 score-

less frames across LSU’slast four contests. Rizy had40-plus pitch outings Fridayand Tuesday.He wasespecially good against McNeese State, striking out sixbatters and not walking anyone in 22/3 innings.

“Thatwas electric last night from thesixth inning on of guys being able toget anyone out,” Johnson said. “(It’s) another layer of what we’ve done so far to win games.”

Freshman left-hander Cooper Williams and redshirtsophomore right-hander Jaden Noot haven’t thrown as often as Benge, Rizy, Primeaux or Ware have against SECcompetition,but they have thepotential to help LSUonweekends moving forward.

Williams and Noot havehad some troublecommanding the ball. Williams holds a19% walk rate despite his ERA sitting at 0.00. Noot walked two batters in hislastouting against Nicholls State. ButWilliams emerged against Auburnand McNeeseState, not

ON DECK

WHO: LSU (32-6, 10-5 SEC) vs Alabama (30-8, 8-7)

WHEN: 7p.m.Thursday

WHERE: Alex Box Stadium

TV: ESPNU

RADIO: WDGL-FM, 98.1 (Baton Rouge); WWL-AM, 870 (New Orleans);KLWB-FM, 103.7 (Lafayette)

RANKINGS: LSUisNo. 9by

D1Baseball; Alabama is No.15

PROBABLE STARTERS: LSU— LHP

Kade Anderson (6-1, 3.48 ERA); Alabama —RHP TylerFay (0-0, 4.98 ERA)

WHATTOWATCH FOR: Anderson gets the nod forLSU after allowing five earned runs in 41/3 innings last week against Auburn. He’ll be matchedupwith Fay, aredshirt sophomore whosurrendered two earned runs in 31/3 innings on Sundayagainst Mississippi State.

allowinganearned run and strikingout three batters in 12/3 innings. Noot also has the potential to help out in alongreliefrole, throwing multiple innings in four of his last fiveoutings.

“(Cooper’s) competed. He hadn’t been on the mound for10daysor so,” Johnson said last Friday. “I thought his arm looked live.”

Perhaps LSU’sbiggest wild card out of the bullpen is junior righthander Jacob Mayers.

Despitehaving one of the best fastballsonthe team, command issueshaveprevented him from earning more time against SEC competition.Hehas morewalks (12) than innings pitched(eight) this season.

But like the rest of the bullpen, Mayers’ last two outings have been promising. He struck out four batters and didn’tissue a walk in shutout innings against Auburn and McNeese State.

It’shard to understate Guidry’s value outofthe bullpen. As a freshman, he threw the final pitch of LSU’s national championshipclinching victory and posteda 3.77 ERA. Last season,helowered his ERA to 2.59 and struck out 34 battersin261/3 innings.

Butthe Tigers have gotten used to life without him this season, and this bullpen slowly has improved.

“They are getting better,” Johnson said.

Email Koki RileyatKoki. Riley@theadvocate.com.

LSUsoftball lookstoend SECskid againstTexas

BY JIM KLEINPETER

Contributing writer

The LSU softball team hashit askid, and getting out of it this weekend willnot be an easy feat After winning eight of their first 11 Southeastern Conference games and climbing to No. 3in the national poll, the Tigers have lost four consecutive conference games and will try to correct their path at No.3Texas during athree-game series beginning at 4:30 p.m. Thursday

The teams play again Friday at 4:30 p.m. and wrapupthe weekend series with an 11 a.m. game

Saturday on ESPN2

The No. 9Tigers (35-8, 8-7 SEC) suffered their first sweep of the season at Texas A&M last weekendasthe pitching faltered in 127, 9-7 and 4-2 losses. The sweep pushed the Aggies into the No. 1spot in the national rankings while then-No. 1Texas dropped two of three to Tennessee to fall two spots.

The Tigers continuetoproduce good offensive numbers, owning the second-best teambatting average in the league behind Texas at .353.

Tori Edwards took over the team lead in batting average at .435 and has 15 homerswith 61 RBIs. LSU third basemanand leadoff

hitter Danieca Coffey has been in abit of aslump during the four-

ä LSU at Texas. 4:30 P.M.THURSDAy,SECN+

game SEClosingstreakwithonly three hits in 18 at-bats, but she’s still batting.432 forthe season. More worrisome is thepitching.

AceSydney Berzon (15-3, 2.25 ERA) allowed five runs in the first twoinnings of the Texas A&M openerand finished with sixearned runs in four innings pitched in the 12-7 loss.

Jayden Heavener (11-3, 2.70) struggled mightily with her control, allowing seven runs on one hit andfive walks, allinthe first inning. She retired only two batters. Texas, which lost in the 2024 Women’sCollegeWorld Series finalsagainstOklahoma, hasa potent offensive lineup that leads the conference in team batting average(.370) andissecond in home runs with 59. TheLonghorns are 39-5 and 11-4in SEC play, ahalf-game behind A&M in the standings.

Leadoffhitter and right fielder AshtonMaloney leads theteam with a.460 average, andcenter fielderKayden Henry is right behind at.458 with 24 stolen bases in 25 attempts. Those two set the tablefor a trioofpower hitters. Catcher Reese Atwood is batting .419 with ateam-best 14 homers and57

LSU first basemanTori Edwards drives the ball against Alabama on April 5atTiger Park. Edwards’ .435 batting averagenow leads the

RBIs. First basemanJoley Mitchell is batting .406 with10homers and 39 RBIs, andleft fielder Katie Stewart has11homers and leads the team with62RBIs. Right-hander Teagan Kavan is

Commanders are in talks about astadium deal

The Washington Commanders andtheDistrict of Columbia are in discussions abouta newfootball stadium in the nation’scapital, aperson with knowledge of talks said Wednesday No deal has been finalized yet. The team hasbeen looking for a new stadium for several years, and that search moved to anew level when JoshHarris’ group bought theCommandersfrom previous owner Dan Snyderin2023. Places in Washington, Virginia and Maryland have all been under consideration. The site of old RFK Stadium is believed to be the preferred destination. TheWashington NBCaffiliate reported Wednesdaythatthe team and D.C.governmentwereclose on an agreement to build there, with the framework of adeal north of $3 billion.

Ex-Texas WR Bond sues woman afteraccusation

Former University of Texas wide receiver Isaiah Bond was arrested last week after asexual assault accusation, but the 21-yearold has filed adefamation lawsuit against his accuser

Bond faces asexual assault charge after awoman accused him of assaulting her at his apartment, asking her to sign anon-disclosure agreement and offering her money after the incident.

Bond, whodeclared forthe NFL draftearlierthis year,has denied the allegations. The suit, filedin federalcourt,accusesthe woman of sparking a“smear campaign” against him aftershe initiated communications via social media beginning in October 2024. The woman waseight years older than Bond during their first encounter

Tennisplayer apologizes for deodorant request

British tennis player Harriet Dart hasapologizedafter asking the chairumpire to tellher opponent to put on deodorantbecause she “smells really bad.”

Dart lost 6-0, 6-3 to French player Lois Boissoninthe first round of the clay-court Rouen Open on Tuesday, andshe said during achangeover to the umpire:“Can youtell (Boisson) to wear deodorant?. Becauseshe smells really bad.”

Afterthe footagespreadonsocial media, Dart posted an apology on Instagram. Boisson, who made herfirst WTA Tour appearanceofthe seasonand is working her way back up from 303rd in the rankings after injuries, gave alight-hearted response by posting aphoto of herwith adeodorant edited above herhand.

Duke freshman Knueppel declares for NBA draft Duke’sKon Knueppel is heading to the NBA after one college season.

The 6-foot-7, 217-pound wing announcedhis decision Wednesday after aseason thatincluded him being named MVPofthe Atlantic CoastConferenceTournament while helping the Blue Devils reach the Final Four

Knueppel averaged 14.4 points, 4.0 rebounds and 2.7 assists as the team’s No. 2scorer behind Associated Press national player of the year Cooper Flagg.

Knueppel is the first memberof Duke’stoutedfreshmanclass to go pro. He’s widely projected as alottery pick. Knueppel is only the eighth freshman to winMVP honors at the ACC Tournament.

Umpire hospitalized after foul ball hits hisface

Veteran umpire Hunter Wendelstedt wenttoahospital forfurther examination on Wednesdayafter he was struck in the face behind first base by aline drive foul ball in Minnesota.

Crew chiefToddTichenor, who called home plate during the 4-3 victory by the Twins over the New York Mets, told apool reporter after the gamethat Wendelstedtwas coherentand speaking but going through aconcussion protocol.

“Hopefully it’s just some stitches is what I’mthinking,” Tichenor said. Major League Baseball said Wendelstedt was undergoing additional tests.

“Weare encouraged that he was in good spiritswhenhewas in touch withour medical staff,” MLB said. “Wewill continue to monitor his status.”

By MICHAEL JOHNSON

STAFF PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

1

HALEIGH BRYANT, SR., LSU Theengaging NCAA all-around champion won theSEC allaround titleinMarch.Ifshe can winatthatmeet, shecan repeat at nationals.

FINNEGAN

Continued from page1C

last year,” Finnegan said. “Everything started fresh and brand new.It’sanew team and anew environment

“We’ve done areallygood job trying to leave last year in last year.We’re notlooking to duplicate anything.” What is true in that respect for the 2025LSU gymnastics team is true for Finnegan herself.

She arrived at LSUin2021 two years after her older sister,Sarah Finnegan, completed one of the greatest careers in programhistory. Shewon two NCAA individual titles, the2019 AAI award, five Southeastern Conference titles, 95 totalwins and 23 All-America honors.

“It wasn’taslam dunkthatshe would come here,” LSU coach Jay Clark said of Aleah Finnegan. “She had been in her sister’s shadow throughout their elite careers and everything else.

“When she decided to come here, there had to be some concern that she was always going to beknown as Sarah’slittle sister.But (the coaching staff) made sure that

NewOrleans Saints quarterback Derek Carr gives a thumbs up to the fans as he walks off the field after the Las Vegas Raiders beat the Saints 25-10 at the Caesars Superdome on Dec. 29. STAFF PHOTO By DAVID

GRUNFELD

2 JORDAN BOWERS,SR. OKLAHOMA

Tied forsecond nationally in the all-around,Bowers hadthree perfect 10stowin theNCAAWashington regional all-around titlewitha 39.900

3

JADE CAREY, SR., ORE. ST Atwo-timeU.S Olympicgold medalist and thenation’sNo. 1-ranked all-arounder,the only thing missingfromher résumé is an NCAA individualtitle

she knew this was allabout Aleah Finnegan. We wanted hertowrite her own story,and boy has she.” Finnegan has been stellar in her own right with 43 career wins, including the2024NCAA floor title and ashare of the 2025 SEC beam championship with

fellow LSU senior Haleigh Bryant. She also hasadozen AllAmerica honors. Coming off an appearance for ThePhilippinesinthe 2024 Paris Olympics(her mother Linabelle’s homecountry), Finnegan got 20 of her wins this season and was one

Saints QB Carr skips voluntaryoffseason work

BY MATTHEW PARAS and JEFF DUNCAN Staff writers

Derek Carr has notattendedthe first phase of the New Orleans Saints’ voluntary workouts at the team’spractice facility this week sourceswithknowledgeofthe situation said.

Carr was not required to be there, but his absence comesas he dealswith ashoulder injury that could keep him out forall of next season. As Carr reportedly weighs whether to getsurgery,a source said it stems from an old shoulder injury.OnWednesday, Sports Illustrated reportedCarr’s camp has told people the injury originated from the 2023 season when the quarterback suffered an AC sprain against the Green Bay Packers. Thoughvoluntary,the Saints have had strong attendance for the first phase of workouts which the league limitstoonly meetings, strength and conditioning, and physical rehabilitation. Carr is one of just ahandful of playersonthe 72-man roster who

KELLY

Continued frompage1C

because of inexperience at the position But LSU already has reached the 85-scholarship limit,so some players wouldhave to leave in ordertobring in more transfers. TheSEC said it would maintain an 85-scholarship limit for the 2025 season, even though rules around roster sizes will change as aresultofthe House settlement, which must be approved.

have not been in attendance so far this week,with the program beginning Monday.Healso has notbeen in thebuilding to rehab hisinjury,sources said.

TheSaints’ in-house production team released 34 seconds of footagefromthe workouts this week in which players such as Spencer Rattler, Demario Davis andCam Jordan were featured.

Carr’sabsence, and news of his injury,were reported after months of lingering questions aboutwhether the 34-year-old wouldremainwith theSaintsnext season. Coach Kellen Moore gave anoncommittal answer about Carr’sfuture at his introductory newsconference, but he and general manager Mickey Loomis then saidthey werecommitted to the quarterback at the NFL scouting combineweeks later

On March 8, the Saints restructured Carr’scontract to clear $30 million in salary-cap space —a move that also increased his 2026 cap hitto$69.2 million. The team didnot need Carr’s permissionfor the transaction. Around that time, ESPN reported the quarterback

After itssuccess in the winter portal window,LSU doesn’t have to take the same approach now At the time,the Tigers needed alot of experiencedplayers who could help the team contend aftermissing theCollegeFootball Playoff for the first threeyears of Kelly’s tenure.

LSUsigned what wasthe No 1transfer class in thecountry, according to 247Sports, though it hassince been overtakenby Texas Tech.

LSU wanted to get most of its work done then. Asking prices tend to rise in the spring— as the Tigers learnedinthe defensive

4

JORDAN CHILES,JR. UCLA

Athree-time Olympicmedalist (gold,silver, bronze), Chiles has twoNCAAtitlesfrom2023(floor, bars)and is tied for firstnationally on floor.

of six finalists for this year’sAAI award given to the nation’stop senior female gymnast.

“She’s exceeded beyondanything Icould have hopedfor,” Clarksaid. “I knew she was talented. ButIdidn’tknowshe would play the role as effectively as she has and go beyond that and become an Olympian andstill be able to lead her team in theway she has.

“Wedon’ttalkabout Aleah as much as we have Haleigh over the years. Butshe’s alot like Haleighin terms of thecharacter of the person. She’s just alovelyhuman being. She lovespeople, and she loves people deeply.I couldn’tbemore proud of the career that she’s had andthe impact that she’shad on the program and me personally.”

By now,the endofher fourth and final collegiate season,the routines are deeply ingrained.

What does Finnegan think about when she’s4feet off the ground performing on that 4-inchwide balance beam?

“I have certainkeywords,” Finnegan said. “Sometimes Italk to myself up there. If the mouth is closed, the brain can wander

“Keywordslike ‘use your wrists’ or ‘move your arms’ or ‘push off

SAINTS

Continuedfrom page1C

under Allen. Johnson is coming off of aseason-ending toe injury but is reportedly healthy now. He chosenot to runa40-yard dash at his recent workout forteams but still participated in other drills.Hecould be off the board by the time the Saintspick at No. 9, though.

Jahdae Barron, Texas

The Saints hired Texas defensive passgamecoordinator Terry Joseph forthe samerolethis offseason, so if NewOrleans is interested in Barron, the team will have plentyofinsight to lean on. Barron wasaversatile piece wholined up alloverthe field and was productive doing it. He’s coming off afive-interception seasonafter moving to outsidecorner, ashift from playing on the inside earlier in his college career

was open to testing the market if theSaints wanted to trade or release him. It is notpublicly known when the Saints found out about Carr’s injury. Mooremade no reference to thequarterback possibly being hurt whenhemet withreporters April1atthe NFLowners’meetings in Palm Beach,Florida.

Asked then whether Carr was still “bought in” to the Saints, Moore said, “yeah, we’re excited to team up.” Moore also indicated that he expected Carrtobeinattendance for thestartofthe offseason program “Derek, I’m excited to have him back withusreally shortly,” Mooresaid. “Obviously,April 14th will start, andI think that’sthe fun part. These guys go through the offseason. They have achanceto spend time with their family,invest in allthat, whichisthe right thing to do.And once youkind of getback,April 14th,you begin the process.”

Email Matthew Paras at matt paras@theadvocate.com

tackle market last year —and after afundraising push forits NILcollective, therewas enough moneytofront loaddealsahead of the expected beginning of revenue sharing this summer.

Combiningthe transfers with key returning playersand incoming freshmenhas given Kelly confidenceinwhatLSU can accomplish.Hehas said thisteam can winthe SEC, and he spoke highly of the roster throughout spring practice.

“You want to be in aposition whereyou bring in portal players building off of what you already have,” Kelly said, “andthat’swhy

5

LEANNE WONG, SR. FLORIDA

Tied forsecond nationally with Bowers in theallaround,she won theSEC bars titlewitha perfect10, oneofthree shehas this season Scott Rabalais

with your legs.’Itseems silly when you’ve done this azilliontimes, but it’spart of it.”

The Tigers are in about the same position health-wise as they were when they won theirregionalat Penn State two weeks ago. Clark said therewas aconcernKonnor McClain may have injured herself Monday in LSU’s final practice in Baton Rouge,but after Wednesday’spractice session here he is fairly confident she can compete on bars, beam and floor,ifneeded. LSU will start on bars, then go to beam,floor and vault.

At the regional, Clark didn’twant his team to peak too soon. Here, it’s timefor LSU to go all out and for the Tigers to make sure they advance to Saturday

“When you get here, you’ve got to pretty much put togethertwo big ones,” he said. “You’ve got to go hard. You’ve gottoput your foot into the gas alittle bit and go.” Do that, and maybe Finnegan or one of her teammates will have a title-clinching performance worthy of watching over andover again.

For more LSUsports updates, signupfor ournewsletter at theadvocate.com/lsunewsletter

season that convincedNFL teams that he was capable of becoming astarter

At 5-11, Barron wouldn’tbethe biggest outside cornerbackinthe world. But the Saints have aquestion mark at nickelcornerback do they move Taylor back inside? Put Isaac Yiadom there? —and Barron could be the answer

Trey Amos,Ole Miss

On paper,Amos matches the kind of corner that the team drafted often under Allen. His height (6-1) and 8.37 Relative Athletic Score areinthe range of the Saints’ preferences,and he has“an appetite forpress” man coverage, accordingtoThe Athletic’s Dane Brugler.Bruglerevencompared himtoAdebo, who Brugler said had asimilar kind of super senior

At Ole Miss, Amos played on the outside and registered an SEChigh 16 passesdefended. He took advantage of his transfer there after spending time at Alabama —asabackuptoMcKinstry, coincidentally —and UL,where he played for theRagin’ Cajuns for three seasons.Hecould be an option on Day 2for the Saints. Azareye’hThomas, FloridaSt. Another possible Day 2option, Thomas startedonly oneseason at Florida State but hadanimpressive campaign in which he allowed only 17 catches. Thomas is tall (61) andhas notable speed,running a4.43 40-yard dash. He also excelsatpress-man coveragebut is lengthy enough to hold his own after that. There arequestions about whether Thomas can contribute right away.Zierlein projects him as astarter in twoorthree years. Dorian Strong,Virginia Tech The Saints reportedly hosted Strong for avisit this week. The Virginia Tech product was afiveyear starter,and five of his seven interceptions came in the last two seasons. The Athletic noted that coaches praise Strong for being aleader who has “locked-in confidence.” The23-year-oldcould be aDay 3pick, though, because of his lack of twitch. While there are also concerns abouthis speed Zebra Sports clocked himasone of the fastest players during the week of practices ahead of the Senior Bowl —with Strong topping outat21.36 miles perhour. That was behind only USC cornerback Jaylin Smith.

this roster is the bestroster we’ve hadbecause we’re building both depth withinour football team and we’re bringing in veteran players. So, thatmix is thebest mixthat we’ve had since I’ve been here.” His belief that the quality of the rosterhas improved helps explain whyLSU will try to reach the end of the spring portal window without muchactivity one way or another

There could be additions and losses, but for the most part, Kelly wants to maintain whatLSU has in place. “Maybe that’sfool’sgold, maybe

that’s wishing more than anything else,” Kelly said. “ButIlike what we’vedone with this roster. Ilike thedevelopment of it.Not allof that is in my control, obviously But Ican tell you we’re not actively saying we’vegot to have this, we’ve got to have that.”

STAFF FILE PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

LSUgymnast Aleah Finnegan starts her routine on the floor against MissourionJan. 31 at the PMAC.

THE VARSITYZONE

Gearingupfor state

BrotherMartin singles, Jesuit doubles pair win regional titles

BY CHRISTOPHER DABE Staff writer

BrotherMartin tennis player Mitchell Armbruster, and the Jesuit doubles pairing of Leo Congeni and Scott Harper would like to make deep runs at the state tournament in two weeks.

And this time, they’d like to win. For Armbruster,a state championship in singles play would let him do something his brother Matthew achieved twice, when he won state titles in 2019 and 2021.

For Congeni and Harper,a state title would be theperfect way to end their threeand-a-half seasons together as doubles teammates.

All three won LHSAA regional tennis championships Wednesday at City Park and will be high-seeded entrants when the Division Istate tournament is heldApril 2829 in Monroe.

Armbruster,a state semifinalist last season, defeated Jesuit junior Alton Swan 6-1, 6-2 in the regional final. He overcame a2-0 deficit in the secondset and won asingles regional championship for the first time.

Armbruster won the first set by “staying low” and “movingforwardwith my shots,” he said.

“I knew my strokes were bigenough to push him backwards, so Ijust kind of stayed low and did that,” said Armbruster,aNicholls State commitment.

Brother Martin’sMitchell Armbruster competes against Jesuit’sAlton Swanduring their LHSAA regional tournament match Wednesday.

Armbruster,who won adoubles state titleasa sophomore with his brother Mark as his playingpartner, righted himself inthe secondset when hebrokeserve for a3-2 lead and coasted from there.

“Mitchell didn’t lethim stay back there and rally,” Brother Martin coach Lee MacAlester said. “He made him uncomfortablethe entire time. Mitchell’s forehand waskind of the difference in thematch.”

Cogeni andHarper, state semifinalistslastseason, wonthe doublesregional title forthe second year in arow when they defeated Brother Martin juniors Reed MacAlester and Sal Trujillo 7-6, 7-5 in arematch of theregional final from last season.

“Scott and Leo Ithink is the best doubles team in the state rightnow,” Jesuit

coach Scott Schlesinger said.“They’replaying together.They’re working together.They communicate better than anybody I’ve seen as far as ateam. I’m just hoping they bring it to state.”

Jesuit won theregional team championship with 18 points, three more than Brother Martin. TheBlue Jays advanced both singles playersand all three doubles pairstostate from the regional tournament.

Mount Carmel (16 points) won the girls team championshipwith thehelp of doubles winners GraceRivera andAbby Galloway,two seniors who played primarily as singles players until they paired up about amonth ago.

“Obviously we were friends before, so it made it kind of easy for us to jell together,” Rivera said.

“And then we pump each

PREP REPORT

No. 5Tioga (19-8)bye No. 21 John Ehret (12-8) at No.12Teurlings Catholic (14-15) No. 20 St. Scholastica (8-13) at No.13Caddo Magnet (13-15) No. 4JohnCurtis (22-7) bye No. 3Alexandria (24-8) bye No. 19 Riverdale (8-7) at No.14Lafayette (15-9) No. 22 Woodlawn-BR (11-15) at No. 11 Captain Shreve(18-14) No. 6Mount Carmel (14-13) bye No. 7Acadiana (18-11) bye No. 23 Huntington(5-14) at No.10Dominican (11-15) No. 18 Edna Karr (12-11) at No.15St. Joseph’s Academy(10-18) No. 2St. Thomas More(22-7) bye Division II Bidistrict No. 1Vandebilt Catholic (29-2) No. 17 Loyola Prep (9-11) at No.16Cabrini (9-9) No. 24 L.B. Landry (5-6) at No.9St. Michael (21-12) No. 8David Thibodaux (13-17) bye No. 5Loranger (22-2) bye No. 21 New Orleans Military&Maritime (9-4) at No 12 Kenner Discovery (10-11) No. 20 LivingstonCollegiate (8-7) at No.13AcadianaRenaissance(14-10) No. 4Buckeye(20-12) bye No. 3Hannan (17-10) bye No. 19 Peabody (6-17) at No.14Leesville (10-12) No. 22 Douglass(10-3) at No.11Haynes Academy (11-10) No. 6St. Charles (23-7) bye No. 7Patrick Taylor (17-7) bye No. 23 Tara (4-10)atNo. 10 AcademyofOur Lady (7-18) No. 18 Willow(7-8) at No.15Madison Prep (13-8) No. 2E.D.White (21-9) bye Division III Bidistrict No. 1Calvary Baptist (33-1) bye No. 17 De La Salle (11-13) at No.16Fisher (9-11) No. 24 Ursuline (9-11) at No.9Bunkie (16-11) No. 8Dunham (14-4) bye No. 5Jewel Sumner (26-5) bye No. 21 St. Thomas Aquinas (9-15) at No.12 Rosepine (14-13) No. 20 Catholic-New Iberia(8-13-1) at No.13University (12-13) No. 4Parkview Baptist (20-12) bye No. 3NotreDame (29-2) bye No. 19 Thomas Jefferson (9-11) at No.14Lafayette Christian (13-9) No. 22 Episcopal(11-8)atNo. 11 NorthlakeChristian (10-13) No. 6Houma Christian (13-11) bye No. 7St. Louis Catholic (12-7) bye No. 23 Beekman Charter (6-19) at No.10Pope John Paul II (13-9) No. 18 Metairie Park Country Day(11-4) at No.15 Newman (13-7) No. 2D’Arbonne Woods (21-7) bye Division IV Bidistrict No. 1Catholic-Pointe Coupee (23-10) bye No. 17 Ouachita Christian(11-14) at No.16Central Catholic (9-11) No. 24 WestminsterChristian(8-11) at No.9St. Mary’s (18-11) No. 8Riverside (19-6) bye No. 5Holy Savior Menard (18-11) bye No. 21 Vermilion Catholic (8-8-1) at No.12Central Private (12-7) No. 20 Delta Charter (11-16) at No.13Covenant Christian (15-8) No. 4St. Frederick (21-7)bye No. 3AscensionCatholic (21-8) bye No. 19 Northwood-Lena (16-12) at No.14Ascension Christian (15-10) No. 22 Delhi Charter (15-11) at No.11CedarCreek

other up alot,” saidGalloway,who noted how her forehand ability blends well with Rivera’sstrong backhand.

The pair defeated all three doubles teams from runnerup Dominican (121/2 points) over thecourse of thetwoday tournament, including a 6-2, 6-1victory over juniors Enna Hawes and Mackenzie Hertzinthe finals.

Mandeville freshman Ciara Sergi defeated Mount Carmel eighth grader Caroline Melius 6-0, 6-2inthe girls singles final.

“When she’son, her game hasher capable of just about anything,”Mandeville coach Sean Esker said.

“If you’reabletodictate the pace of thegames and dictatethe points, then you geta lotofchances andCiarahas been able to do that with avariety of different shots.”

No.11Bell City (8-8)atNo. 6Zwolle (18-12)

No.10Family Community (13-8) atNo. 7Simsboro (20-10) No.2Stanley (21-7) vs.No. 18/15 winner

Class C Bidistrict No.17Plainview (8-14) at No.16Gibsland-Coleman (8-7) No.20South Cameron (9-9)atNo. 13 Evans (9-12) No.19Glencoe Charter (7-10) at No.14FalseRiver (8-15) No.18Hornbeck(6-9) at No.15Hackberry (9-7) Regional No.1Harrisonburg(18-9) vs.No. 17/16 winner No.9Calvin (13-13) at No.8St. Joseph’s-Plaucheville (7-14) No.12Dodson (14-17) at No.5Saline (14-6) No.4Summerfield (14-7) vs.No. 20/13 winner No.3Claiborne Christian (10-14) vs.No. 19/14

winner No.11Maurepas (9-15) at No.6Ebarb (20-6) No.10Georgetown (13-10) at No.7Starks (13-5) No.2Northside Christian (11-7) vs.No. 18/15 winner Area baseball playoffs Division Iselect

Bidistrict round No. 17 Higgins at No. 16 Lafayette: TBD No. 18 C.E.ByrdatNo. 15 St. Paul’s: TBD No. 19 Riverdale vs.No. 14 Pineville: 6p.m. Thursday, 4p.m. Friday, 6:30 p.m. Friday. No. 20 Liberty vs.No. 13 St. Augustine: 4p.m. Thursday, 7p.m. ThursdayatSkelly-Rupp Stadium; 11 a.m. SaturdayatWesley BarrowStadium. Regionalround No. 2HolyCross vs.No. 18 C.E. Byrd/No. 15 St. Paul’s winner No. 3Brother Martinvs. 19 Riverdale/No. 14 Pineville winner No. 9Rummel at No. 8John Curtis No. 11 PonchatoulaatNo. 6Captain Shreve No. 12 Alexandria at No. 5Jesuit

Division II select Bidistrict round No. 18 McDonogh 35 at No. 15 Leesville: TBD No. 19 Peabody

BY GUERRYSMITH Contributing writer

Entering the toughest stretch of its schedule, the Tulane baseball team needs the Theo Bryant it has seen in the last two weeks. Bryant, a23-year-old graduate transfer from Tennessee Tech who was penciled in as the starting center fielder when he arrived last fall, has excelled since finally assuming that role against Rice on April 4. Before then, he was 3of16with three RBIs and one extrabase hit while starting once in 32 games. In the Green Wave’spast six contests he is 9of19with six RBIs, two doubles and three home runs while starting five times and raising his average to .324.

The difference? He is not sure.

“I just kept working hard, putting in the time every day and being a good teammate on the bench,” Bryant said.

“Skip (coach Jay Uhlman) preached that alot. Iwas just being here for everyone.”

The truth is Uhlman did not think Bryant, who counts former NFL quarterback Warren Moon and wide receiver Willie Gault as his cousins, was ready in January.Teammates outperformed him in practice.

“He came into my office afew times, and I said you’ve just gotta be patient and be ready, it’salong season,” Uhlman said. “I also told him he could quit, and to talk with his parents. He said I’m going to hang in there, and Isaid, ‘Good, keep battling and good things will happen.’ ”

Tulane (23-15, 7-5 AAC) could use all of Bryant’s recent surge and more against American Athletic Conference frontrunner Texas-San Antonio (28-9, 10-2) this Thursday through Saturday (first pitch times are 6p.m., 6p.m. and 1p.m.) on Easter weekend.

The Roadrunners lead the league by awide margin in batting average (.322) and runs scored (311).

They also are on top in slugging percentage (.488) and on-base percentage (.430).

Ayear ago, they swept the Wave at Turchin Stadium, winning 6-3, 11-7 and 12-6. Now they get Tulane in San Antonio, where they are 17-1. Atrip to No. 23 Southern Miss and aseries at four-time reigning regular-season champion East Carolina follow,but Uhlman is focused squarely

on UTSA.

“Weare going to have our hands full,” he said. “They’re tough. If we can take the right mentality and focus, I’ll live with whatever we do. We’ve got murderer’srow coming up.”

Bryant can help the Wave stay afloat. His home run leading off the third inning in the opener against Rice set the tone for his hot streak.

He homered again the next day and added apair of singles, and he was vital in Tulane’sseriesdeciding win against UAB on Sunday,doubling in a run in the third, cracking atwo-run homer in the fifth, making two tough catches in center field and even holding arunner at second base by launching aball toward third base after catching aflyball.

“I didn’teven know he had that much in his arm,” Uhlman said. Bryant, from Decatur, Georgia, played five years at Tennessee Tech but had aseason of eligibility left because of the 2020 Covid season not counting and using his redshirt in 2022. Last year,his best with the Golden Eagles, he hit .265 with 10 home runs and 41 RBIs. While tearing it up in summer ball for Bismarck (North Dakota) in the Northwoods League (he hit .370) after entering the transfer portal, he received arecruiting pitch from Tulane hitting coach Justin Bridgeman and ended up choosing the Wave over Georgia State, which was five minutes from his parents’ house.

“Since Day 1, Ifell in love with this coaching staff,” he said. “The guys are amazing. It’sa pretty young staff. Ijust felt at home and felt comfortable playing for these guys.” For agood while this year,itwas more like practicing for them. In games, he was used almost exclusively as a pinch runner and lateinning defensive replacement until making the most of his full opportunity against Rice. He said the adjustment to Tulane from Tennessee Tech was smooth. When teammates playing in front of him slumped, he was prepared.

“Nothing much has changed,” he said. “I’m just trying to stick to my approach, especially with righties seeing the fastball away,reacting to the curveball and just trying to hit it really hard.”

Straka gives Zurich another top-20 pledge

BY JEFF DUNCAN Staff writer

Another top-20 player has committed to the Zurich Classic. Sepp Straka, the world’s No 17 player, will team with two-time PGA Tour winner Brice Garnett in this year’s Zurich Classic, tournament officials announced Wednesday Straka is ranked second in the latest FedExCup standings behind Rory McIlroy, who also is committed to compete in the April 24-27 Zurich Classic, which will be played at TPC of Louisiana next week.

Straka and Garnett teamed to finish in a tie for 11th place in last year’s Zurich Classic.

“Sepp Straka has won multiple titles and has both Ryder Cup and Olympic experience,” said Steve Worthy, CEO of the Fore!Kids Foundation, which operates the tournament for the PGA Tour

“Brice Garnett has also won twice on the Tour, so they have experience closing out golf tournaments.”

The Zurich previously has received commitments from reigning champions Rory McIlroy (No. 2) and Shane Lowry (No. 15), as well as top-25 players Collin Morikawa (No. 4), Wyndham Clark (No. 14) and Billy Horschel (No. 23) McIlroy won the Masters in dra-

matic fashion Sunday to become just the sixth player in history to complete the career Grand Slam.

Straka, a 31-year-old native of Vienna, Austria won the American Express in January and has posted seven top-25 finishes this season, including three top 10s.

He tied for seventh in the Pebble Beach Pro-Am and tied for fifth in the Arnold Palmer Invitational.

He earned his first career victory in 2022 at The Honda Classic, becoming the first player from Austria to win on the PGA Tour

He began playing on the Tour in the 2018-19 season and became one of eight rookies to make the FedExCup playoffs.

In 2023, Straka tied for seventh in the PGA Championship and tied for second in the British Open.

Straka was a member of the 2023 Ryder Cup team that defeated the U.S. in Rome

He represented Austria in the 2024 Olympics in Paris and finished tied for 35th.

He finished 10th in the 2020 Olympics after leading the first round with a 63, tied for the lowest score in Olympic golf history.

Garnett, 41, won the 2024 Puerto Rico Open in a playoff against Erik Barnes.

His best finish this season was a tie for 11th at the Cognizant Classic in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida.

Thunder and Cavaliers play a waiting game in first round of playoffs

BY TIM REYNOLDS AP basketball writer

Oklahoma City and Cleveland

are the top seeds in the NBA playoffs, which comes with some perks. They’ll have home-court advantage for at least three rounds and, presumably an easier path than others to advancing It also comes with a challenge: They’ll have just one full day to really prepare for Game 1. Some teams will have a full week to prepare for their first playoff foe. Some teams get four or five days. But given the way the playin tournament is structured, the Thunder and Cavaliers won’t know their foes until late Friday night — then will open Round 1 matchups against those opponents on Sunday, with only one practice day to lock in on a game plan.

“It’s tough. It’s interesting,” Milwaukee coach Doc Rivers said. “There were years where I had that issue and it’s definitely more challenging.”

The exact same scenario didn’t hold the Thunder back a year ago. New Orleans won the Western Conference’s elimination play-in game for the No. 8 seed on a Friday started a series at top-seeded Oklahoma City on Sunday, the Thunder squeaked out a win in Game 1 and went on to sweep the matchup with a couple of blowouts in there. And just like last year, the Thunder are spending these extra days working on themselves.

“It’s a unique situation to have this much time in between games and to not know your opponent,” Oklahoma City coach Mark Daigneault said. “Now our opponent won’t be able to prepare. We’ll both have the same amount of time to prepare. We both have Saturday and then we play Sunday So, you’re in no disadvantage. But we definitely learned from last year on how to manage the week.”

The Cavaliers won’t present any information on opposing personnel to their players until after the opponent is locked in. Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson did get one piece of information very late Tuesday night, that his team’s Game 1 will be at 7 p.m. on Sunday It could have been as early as 1 p.m., depending on what the league and its broadcast partners wanted. To Atkinson, those few extra hours can make a difference.

Oklahoma City Thunder forward Dillon Jones pulls in a rebound against the New Orleans Pelicans in New Orleans on Sunday.

“We’ll have more time to maybe dive into personnel a little more,”

Atkinson said

The Cavs have had an assistant coach assigned to each specific team all season, so work is being done on all three of their possible Round 1 opponents. Atkinson won’t start thinking about possible matchups until later this week.

“I think there is an organization to it, a real organization,” Atkinson said. “And it’s multi-faceted. We have things we’ve been working on, things we think will translate to playoffs.”

There are four matchups Indiana-Milwaukee and New York-Detroit in the East, the Los Angeles Lakers-Minnesota and Denver-the Los Angeles Clippers in the West that have been set since the end of the regular season. Those teams get a full week to get ready for Round 1, knowing their opponents. All of those series open on Saturday.

The No. 2 seeds in each conference learned their opponents on Tuesday night, when Orlando earned the right to play Boston and Golden State won its way into a playoff meeting with Houston.

Had the Magic or Warriors lost Tuesday they would have had to play elimination games on Friday. Winning to open the play-in tournament allowed both teams a chance to take a little bit of time to exhale.

“It took 83 games, but we’re right where we want to be — which is back in the playoffs and we’ve got a chance,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. “But maybe most importantly, we get the time to rest and prepare because these guys need that desperately right now.”

Oklahoma City will play either Memphis, Sacramento or Dallas in Round 1 of the West playoffs. Cleveland will play either Atlanta, Chicago or Miami in Round 1 of the East playoffs. Sometime Friday night, the Thunder and Cavaliers will finally know who it is.

Neither club seems overly worked up about the uncertainty that they’re dealing with this week

And it hasn’t been much of a problem in the past, either; since 2021, when this version of the playin tournament began, No. 1 seeds are 6-2 in Game 1s against No. 8 seeds, plus have gone on to win that opening series seven of eight times — the exception being when Miami upset Milwaukee in 2023.

In 2018, he won the Corales Puntacana Resort & Club Championship in wire-to-wire fashion after posting an opening round score of 63

Butler determined to bring Curry, Green another championship

BY JANIE MCCAULEY AP sportswriter

SAN FRANCISCO

— Two months in and Jimmy Butler has become so comfortable with the Golden State Warriors that he is now shouting when someone takes a bad shot, or he is demanding the ball be in his hands if it has been a possession or two without having touched it.

Draymond Green, for one, is loving how Butler is taking charge — he is Playoff Jimmy after all and this is his time of year He has earned it. He thrives on the postseason stage.

“He’s different. You can just see a whole different intensity level and focus. I’m a basketball fan and so I’ve watched it on TV for years,” Green said. “To see it up close and personal, it’s a real thing. Sometimes you get in the NBA and these guys get these nicknames and you’re like ‘Man, stop it.’ There’s some other nicknames out there, they’re not real. That one’s real, and I’m happy he’s on our side.”

Butler chuckled and smiled when asked what he has been yelling lately

“You want me to tell you what I said?” he said, “... Nah, they going to fine me.”

On Tuesday night, Butler helped the Warriors finally win a play-in game after going 0-3 in appearances last year and in 2021, so now he is ready to do everything he can to capture a championship and help Curry and Green bring home a fifth title.

With a few days off at last after beating the Grizzlies 121-116, Golden State has some muchneeded rest and recovery before

traveling to Texas to take on the Rockets. Game 1 in Houston is Sunday

“I want everybody to be happy, for sure Steph, he deserves it, what he’s done for the game of basketball not only this city and this organization,” Butler said. “He’s in it for the long haul. He wants to win. He wants to win every single game, every single possession.”

Curry turned 37 last month and returning to the playoffs means so much, wrapping up his 16th NBA season after missing out in 2024.

“It’s easy to not take it for granted because we weren’t there last year,” he said.

“From 2013 to ‘19, we made the Finals runs but we were in the playoffs every year and a twoyear stretch where we missed it and then ’22 came around. It’s just a reminder that it’s not guaranteed, I don’t care how talented you are.”

Coach Steve Kerr felt the same way He couldn’t wait to get to work with his staff on the game plan for a Rockets team that won 106-96 on the Warriors’ home floor April 6.

“This is what we do. I mean, this is so fun. This is the best time of the year You know, this is Year 11,” Kerr said. “My favorite, maybe my favorite day of the season is tomorrow (Wednesday). We come in as a staff, we look at Houston tape. We start to put together our game plan. The players are resting. We’ve got a couple of days before we’ll see the players again We get to go to work and try to beat a great team in a seven-game series. There’s nothing better So I can’t wait.”

Butler, Curry and Green won’t be content with anything but a deep run.

The Warriors had begun 12-3 despite losing Klay Thompson to Dallas but then went 13-23, leaving their record at 25-26 when general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr pulled off the blockbuster trade.

Butler had 38 points, seven rebounds and six assists against Memphis while Curry scored 37. They hugged afterward.

Butler can’t help but be confident with Curry on his side.

“Hell, I think any team has a chance when I’m on the team, but I know that every team has a chance if Steph is on the team,” he said. “So I get to play Robin. That’s my Batman, and I don’t know who else is — we got all the villains over there, Two-Face and Joker and Riddler and everybody else in the Western Conference.

But we got a lot of games to win.”

Before Butler even arrived to play his first game Feb 8 after the trade from Miami, he promised Dunleavy Kerr Curry and Green that he would make a difference.

He knew the Warriors would make the playoffs with him.

“Whenever I talk to Steph and Dray and Steve and Mike before I even got here, I was telling them, I can help. Now, I don’t know in what manner that I can help but we’re going to make the playoffs,” Butler recalled.

“I feel like I can give any team, for sure this one, a chance to win, and they believe it. I believe it. And that’s all that you can ask for Now we’ve just got to go out there, execute, play our tails off, and win some more basketball games.”

AP PHOTO By GERALD HERBERT

The Gallatin, Missouri, native teamed with Chesson Hadley to lead at 22 under during the final round of the 2018 Zurich Classic, but they were overtaken on the

back nine and finished tied for fourth.

Email Jeff Duncan at jduncan@ theadvocate.com.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By ASHLEy LANDIS

Sepp Straka waves after making a putt on the second hole during the Masters on Friday in Augusta, Ga.

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry, left, celebrates with forward Draymond Green after making a 3-pointer against the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday in San Francisco.

AP PHOTO By JEFF CHIU

LIVING

Coldcomforts

BY APRIL HAMILTON| Contributingwriter

hen my oldest daughter was in pre-K—more years agothan seems possible— Ipacked up my old school ice cream machine, abig bag of ice, some rock salt,apint each of cream and milk, abit of sugar and abasket of market-fresh strawberries andhauled it all into her classroom. Ialso carried a tremendous amount of courage, giving each preschooler aplastic knife to slice off the tops of the juicy berries andthencut them intoirregular pieces. The bits were collected in abig bowl and mashed up with the sugar, cream andmilk.

See STRAWBERRY, page 2D

StrawberrySorbet

Enjoy thepure essence of strawberry in this red-as-arose sorbet made with just 4 ingredients.

1pound fresh strawberries, rinsed, capped and quartered About ½cup homemade simple syrup, cooled (recipe included)

1. Place thestrawberries in afood processorand pulse withthe blade to break up the chunks. Addthe simple syrup and continue to processuntil smooth.

2. Churnaccording to your ice cream makerinstructions. Scrape into acontainer with a tight-fitting lidand freeze until firm. Scoop and serve with a smile.

Homemade Simple Syrup

As thename states, this is so simple anda different formula than thesqueeze bottles found in thestore. This makes the right amountfor thesorbet recipe.

1tablespoon

1. Combine the sugar,water and lemon juice in asmall saucepan and bring to aboil over medium-high heat. Stir gently to help the sugar dissolve, ensuring all crystals have steamed off the sides of the pan. Remove fromheat and pour intoasmall bowl or heatproof glass measuring cup. Let cool completely before adding to the strawberries.

LINDAGASSENHEIMER

BY BETH DOOLEY

The Minnesota Star Tribune (TNS)

Radishes can do awhole lot morethan garnish avegetable plate or cheese board. Crisp and peppery,radishes are arefreshing taste of spring and they makeacrunchy addition to salads, slawsand sandwiches.

2D

Local farm-fresh radishes are in our farmers markets and co-ops now —bright red, purple, white and those pretty pink-tipped French varieties. They brighten our winter-weary palates with peppery snap, and this nutrient-dense cruciferous vegetable is loaded with vitamins C, Kand B6, plus calcium, potassium magnesium and antioxidants. Sure, they’re good fresh, but have you tried them roasted? Youshould. Heat tames the radishes’ assertive spiciness If radishes aretoo ‘spicy’ foryou,try roasting them

ä See RADISHES, page 2D

TNSPHOTO By LINDA GASSENHEIMER

Poisson en Papillote (Steamed Fish Parcels) with Garlic Bread

PHOTO By APRILBUFFINGTON

Strawberry IceCream

Makes about 1quart. Recipeadapted from White Mountain Ice Cream Maker Manual.

For afun way to serve ice cream cones,placethem in stemless champagne flutes. Recipe can be scaled up depending on the volume of your ice cream maker.Keep in mind that the pink liquidexpandsasitfreezes

1cup whole milk

½cup granulated sugar

Pinch of salt

1teaspoon vanilla extract

1cup heavy cream

1pint basket of fresh strawberries, rinsed, capped and finely chopped

STRAWBERRY

1. Heat milk in asmall saucepan over medium heat until bubbles form around theedge. Remove from heat.Whisk in thesugar and salt, stirring until dissolved. Addthe vanilla andcream and whisk to blend. Stir in thechoppedstrawberries.

2. Chill the mixture until cold, at least30minutes or up to overnight. Churn according to your icecream maker instructions. Scrape the soft ice cream into acontainer withatight-fitting lid and freezeuntil firm— or enjoy immediately as soft-serve.

I’malwaysthere forher —but what aboutme?

Dear Annie: My best friend, “Sarah,” and Ihave been close since college, but lately,our friendship feels one-sided. She’sgoing through arough time; she broke up withher boyfriend, she hates her job and she’sbeen struggling with anxiety.I’ve been there for her every step of the way,listeningtoher vent offering advice and checking in on her regularly.But when Ineed support, she’snowhere to be found.

Lastweek, Ihad areally stressful situation at work and tried to talk to her about it.She changed thesubject back to her ex before Icould even finish my sentence. This happens all the time. Whenever I bring up something in my life, she either ignores it or gives aquick response before shifting thefocus back to her problems. Iunderstand she’sstruggling, but I’m starting tofeel like an emotional dumping ground rather than a friend.

Idon’twant to abandon her,but sometimes I wonder if she really cares about me or if she just

wants someone to listen to her.Isthis something I should wait out? Say something? Let the friendship die? —Feeling Used Dear Feeling Used: Friendships aren’talways 50/50, but over time, they should be somewhat balanced out. It does sound like Sarah is going through alot right now.She might be so wrapped up in her own problems that she isn’teven aware of how her behavior is impacting you. It’s timetotell her how you feel. She might be mortified and change her ways. Or she might brush you off and carry on as usual. You’ll either gain back afriendship or a whole lot of time.

Dear Annie: My dad and I have always had acomplicated relationship. He’s agood man and ahard worker,but he wasnever the warmoraffectionate type. Growing up, Ifelt like nothing Idid wasever good enough forhim.Now that I’minmy30s, I’ve accepted that he’snot going to change, but Istill struggle with how to interact with him When we talk, our con-

versations are surface-level —sports, the weather, work. If Itry to open up about my life, he sort of shuts downorchanges the subject. Iknow he cares in his own way, but Ican’t shake the feeling that I’ll always be adisappointmenttohim

Idon’twant to stop trying with him,but Ialso don’twant to keep chasing arelationship that isn’t there. Is there away to build abetter connection, or do Ijust need to accept the relationship forwhat it is? —Still Searching forDad’s Approval Dear Still Searching: Instead of expecting deep conversations, try meeting him where he is. If he’s comfortable talking about sports or work, engage in those topics while slipping in little bits about your life or questions about his. Maybe he’ll open up with time, but if he doesn’t, remember that his approval doesn’tdefine your value. It’s easier said than done, but with practice and, ideally,the help of agood therapist, you will realize how true it is.

Sendyour questions forAnnie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.

Making agaragesaleenjoyable

Their unforgettableglee still tickles me, adozen or so 3- and 4-year-olds collaborating on homemade strawberry ice cream. We poured the pink mixture into the churn’scontainer, watching the ruby bits of berry bob to the top and the tiny seeds fleck the mixture like fresh cracked pepper Once the mixing paddle was in place, on went the lid. Then we layered the ice and salt all around the container nestled inside the rustic wooden barrel and let the machine do its thing. Their glee crescendoed as the motor strained, signaling the ice cream was ready.The teachers helped

manage the crowd while I dolloped the pink soft-serve into cones andpassedthem aroundtothe incredulous kids. Pink smiles surrounded me.Pure magic. My mother started this tradition in my early days after we gathered fresh strawberries like Easter eggsfrom aU-pick farm. Instead of classroom chaos, we churned our ice cream in the driveway where the salty water could spill outofthe churn’sbucket withoutmaking an indoor mess. Momwould suggest we wait for the ice cream to “cure,” meaning it sits in the container withfresh ice packedall around it soit could firm up We enjoyed it as-is. Nothingcompares. At the pinnacleofLoui-

siana strawberry season, where their sweet perfume mingles withthe brass band at the farmers’ market, my longing for homemade strawberry ice cream consumes me. There is no shaking nostalgia. In the absence of aclassic churn, Iordered theice cream attachment for my KitchenAid mixer and got busy Icould not decide between pale pink ice cream or velvetyred sorbet, so Imade both. When my now-grown-andflown daughters flock back to thenest, we will re-create this taste memory with my new toy and the classic recipe, plus theaddition of thenondairy sorbet.

We will time travel back to thepreschool days. Cue thegiggles. Afew simple ingredients are all it takes.

Pan-RoastedRadisheswithLemon on Crostini

Serves 2to4.Recipe is from BethDooley.Serveoncrisp crostini or triangles of light toastfor an elegant appetizeroralongside soup or salad.

1bunch radishes, sliced

2tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2tablespoons unsalted butter

2clovesgarlic, smashed

1tablespoon lemon juice

4to6 crostini or toast triangles

Coarse salt

Chopped parsley for garnish

1. Place alarge skillet over medium heat. Add the oil andbutter andwhen thebutterismelted, addthe garlic cloves.

2. Arrange the radish slices cut-sidedown without crowding the pan. Cook without moving until the radishes are tender and wrinkled, about 3to5minutes.

Roasted Whole Radishes

3. Removethe radish slices, setaside,and swirl in the lemon juice.

4. Arrange the radish slices on the crostini, drizzle with thelemonypan butter and sprinkle with coarse salt. Garnish with the parsley

Serves2to4.Recipe is byBethDooley.This works beautifully with thesmaller round radishes or theFrenchBreakfast varieties. Serveasavibrant side dish, toss withpasta, or toppolenta.

1bunch radishes with leaves

2tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Coarsesalt

Coarsely ground black pepper

1. Preheat the oven to

RADISHES

Continued from page1D

Continued from page1D and turns them juicy,succulent —evenabit sweet They’re similar to baby turnips, but way tastier as they become more complex. The roasting process is reliable and simple. Cut the larger orbs into halves or quarterssothey roastup evenly and at the same rate.

400F andline abakingsheet with parchment.

2. Scatter theradishes on thebakingsheet and drizzle with theoil; sprinkle with the salt and pepper

Just toss them in oil, spread on abakingsheet so they’re nottouching, sprinklewith abit of coarse salt andblast them in theoven until they begintowrinkle. For quicker results, slice theradishes into coins and pan-roast them in butter or oil on the stovetop.

Serve roasted radishes on crostinifor an elegant appetizer and easy snack.Fold them into awhole grain pilaf with chopped herbs;

3. Roastthe radishesuntil they begintoshrivel and become tender,about 15 minutes,shakingpanoccasionally

4. Removeand serve warm or at room temperature.

tangle withpastaorpile on butterypolenta and dust with Parmesan. Addcauliflower,carrots, beets and/or parsnips to theroasting pan for awinning side dish to grilled fish, crispy chicken and seared steak, and spark it all with hot sauce. If the tops are green and vibrant,don’tdiscard them. They add acrisp, finishing touch. Radishes, when roasted, areone of the simplest foods packed with surprise

Dear Heloise: Here’smybit on the recent chain on garage sales. Ifigured there are two reasons tohave a garage sale: to get rid of stuff and to have fun. So, when someoneoffers me $2.50 for an item that I’d marked $3, Ishake my head and say,“Nothing doing! Iwon’ttake apenny more than $2.25!” It’saninstant sale, and I’ve met my two goals for theevent During the next-to-final hour of the sale, Isell anythingand everything for anickel. Then, for the last hour,Igive the customers anickel for every item they take. They feel like they’ve won something, and Idon’thave to pack all theleftovers back into the house. I’ve gotten rid of the stuff, and I’ve had fun. —J Keith Cook, in Omaha, Nebraska Memories

tell me stories of the past, growing up, meeting Mom, their early years together, etc. The order didn’tmatter because Icould arrange it later Ityped and printed out pages. He would read and edit them. When he wasfinished with his stories, Iput them in order,and Iprinted abinder forhim with pictures I could find to correspond with the story.Hetold me manytimes how it brought him out of his depression. Imade copies forall of our family as well. —Leanah L., in Normal, Illinois No leftover soap here

discovered that when the washing machine is not being used, the easiest solution is to always leave the door open. The moisture in the rubber gasket lining will naturally dry out. The problem was solved without purchasing atoploading washer.I hope this saves other people the cost of purchasing anew washing machine! —Linda White,in Colorado Springs, Colorado Mousesurveillance

Dear Heloise: When my mother passed withdementia in her 80s, my father,who had taken care of her for four years, was very depressed. He kept talking about his memories and their early years together Ithought of aproject that Ihoped would help withhis depression. Ibrought over our laptop and told him to

By TheAssociated Press

Today is Thursday, April 17, the 107th day of 2025. There are 258 days left in the year

Todayinhistory: On April 17, 1961, some 1,400 CIA-trained Cuban exiles launched the Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba in an attempt to topple Fidel Castro, whose forces crushed theincursion within three days.

On this date: In 1964, Jerrie Mock completed the first solo around-the-world flight by awoman, landing her single-engine Cessna plane in Columbus, Ohio, after a 29-day journey

In 1969, ajury in Los Angeles convicted Sirhan Sirhan of assassinating Sen. Robert F. Kennedy (Sirhan’sdeath sentence would be commuted to life in prison with thepossibility of parole. He remains in prison today.)

In 1970, Apollo 13 astronauts James A. Lovell,

Dear Heloise: Your reader had acomplex method of dealing with soap slivers. Inever have them.When my bar gets thin enough to be flexible, Ibreak out a new one and use it enough to get it good and wet. At the end of my shower,I rub the twobars together and leave them to dry.Bythe next shower,they are like one bar.Easy peasy! —Emily Murphy, in Kingwood,Texas Badsmell in washer

Dear Heloise: Iread ahint in your column about a bad smell in front-loading washing machines. I, too, had this problem and

TODAYINHISTORY

Fred W. Haise and Jack Swigert splashed down safely in the Pacific, four days after aruptured oxygen tank crippled their spacecraftwhile en route to the moon

In 1972, the Boston Marathon allowed women to compete forthe first time. Nina Kuscsik wasthe first officially recognized women’schampion, with a timeof3:10:26. In 1975, Cambodia’sfiveyear civil war ended as the capital Phnom Penh fell to the Khmer Rouge, which instituted brutal, radical policies that claimed an estimated 1.7 million lives (nearly one in four Cambodians) until the regimewas overthrown in 1979. In 1991, the DowJones industrial average closed above 3,000 forthe first time, ending the day at 3,004.46, up 17.58.

In 1993, afederal jury in Los Angeles convicted twoformer police officers of violating the civil rights of beaten motorist Rodney

Dear Heloise: Recently,I sent you aletter about noticing when you have amouse. It pertained to putting sunflower seeds in discreet locations to see if they wereeaten. Yesterday my wife reported to me that acouple of seeds in our house were missing, which means that we have amouse. No spring, glue or continuous trap caught the miscreant, and we have aplethora of obstacles forthese rodents to navigate. The number one thing is us noticing that acouple of sunflower seeds were missing. This meant we hadto refill our traps with peanut butter and wait for the results. It is ahighly effective way to know that you have arodent. —Jim, via email Sendahinttoheloise@ heloise.com.

King. Twoother officers were acquitted. In 2020, President Donald Trump, via Twitter, urged supporters to “LIBERATE” three states led by Democratic governors, apparently encouraging protests against stay-athomemandates aimed at stopping the coronavirus. Today’sbirthdays: Actor David Bradleyis83. ActorClarke Peters is 73. AuthorNickHornby is 68. ActorSean Bean is 66. Rock singerMaynard James Keenan (Tool) is 61. ActorLelaRochon is 61. ActorKimberly Elise is 58. Singer-songwriter Liz Phair is 58. Director-producer AdamMcKay is 57. Rapper-actor Redman is 55. Football Hall of Famer Tony Boselli is 53.

Annie Lane DEAR ANNIE

Hints from Heloise

ARIEs (March 21-April 19) Learn, converse, gainexperienceand master theart of negotiation. Put your energy and enthusiasm into networking, and you will gainacceptanceamong your peers.

TAuRus (April 20-May 20) Apersonal change is favored. Observe your surroundings and the opportunities around you, andconsider if there is abetter location to call home. Takenothing for granted GEMInI (May 21-June 20) Put await-andseepolicyinplace. You'll overreact if you aren't careful.Expecttemptation to cross your path. Putyour energy into research and communicating withpeople offering firsthandinformation. cAncER (June 21-July 22) Appearing vulnerable will attract scammers. Pay more attention to how you look and present yourself to others. Invest more timeand moneyinyourself instead of buying into someone else's adventure LEo (July 23-Aug. 22) Raise issues of concern, and be theone to make adifference. Listentothe input you receive from people you influence or work alongside, and you'll find away to move forward that appeases the majority VIRGo (Aug. 23-sept. 22) Refrain from lettingyouremotions and ego get in the way of common sense. Change is needed, butdon't try to fix what's already working. Focus on the problem and apply asolution LIBRA (sept.23-oct. 23) Expand your interests,knowledge and experience.

Socialize, and you'll find common ground with someone youencounter; but first,takecare of responsibilities, or someone will complain.

scoRPIo (oct. 24-nov. 22) Adiversion will help yougainmomentum. There is plentytoachieve if youare diligent abouthow youproceed. Seek outpeople who can help youexcel.

sAGITTARIus (nov. 23-Dec. 21) Keep an open mind, but put your assetssomewhere safe. Don't be tempted to bail anyone out or take on responsibilitiesthatwillweigh youdownorcost youemotionally,physically or financially

cAPRIcoRn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Work to avoid interference. Put more timeand effort into self-improvement instead of trying to change others. Question everything andeveryone.

AQuARIus (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Stick close to home and to what's familiar. You'll feel better if youorganize your space. Investyourtime and money in yourself, upgrade your skills and tailor opportunities to suit your needs.

PIscEs (Feb. 20-March 20) Setboundaries to deter someone fromtalking youinto something youdon't need or want. Put your energyintopersonal andprofessional goalsthat make you feel better aboutyourlife.

The horoscope, an entertainment feature, is not based on scientific fact ©2025 by nEa, inc., dist.Byandrews mcmeel syndication

Celebrity Ciphercryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present.Eachletter in thecipher stands for another.

ToDAy's cLuE: DEQuALsc

For better or For WorSe

SALLY Forth

beetLe bAILeY

Mother GooSe And GrIMM

SherMAn’S LAGoon dooneSbUrY

bIG nAte

Sudoku

InstructIons: sudoku is anumber-placing puzzle based on a9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1to9inthe empty squaressothat each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the samenumber only once. The difficulty level of the sudoku increases from monday to sunday.

Yesterday’s Puzzle Answer

THewiZard oF id

BLondie

BaBY BLueS

Hi and LoiS

CurTiS

By PHILLIP ALDER

Daniel J. Bernstein,aresearch professorofcomputer science at the UniversityofIllinoisinChicago,said,“Themost important functionofa bibliographic entry is to help the reader obtain acopy of thecitedwork.” The mostimportant function of a bridge entry is to helpthe player obtain themaximum number of tricks.

In this deal, how would youprogram acomputer (South) to make three notrump? West leadsalow heart. East wins withhis queenand returnsthe suit to dummy’s ace.

One thingshouldbeimmediately apparent to South: If he loses the lead beforehehas taken nine tricks, he will go down. The defenders will cash too many heart tricks Next, declarer should realize that he needs theclub finesse to succeed. And if it is winning, he can collect nine tricks via one spade, one heart,threediamonds and fourclubs.

Theotherhurdleisthattheclubfinesse mightneedtobetakenthreetimes.When this is thecase, first lead the lowest card that can take the trick whenthe finesse is working. Here,South shouldfirst run dummy’s club nine. Then he runs the queen. Next he plays aclub to his jack Andlastly he claims.

Note that if declarer starts with dum-

my’s club queen, East defeats the contract by not covering. Then,ifSouth plays his two, he will have to takethe nextclubtrickinhishand.Or,ifdeclarer unblocks the 10 or jack under the queen, East can cover the nine to leavehis eight beating South’s two on the fourth round of the suit.

©2025 by nEa, inc.,dist. By andrews mcmeel syndication

Each Wuzzleisaword riddle which creates adisguised word, phrase, name, place, saying, etc. For example: nOOn gOOD =gOOD aFTErnOOn

Previousanswers:

word game

InsTRucTIons: 1. Words mustbeoffour or moreletters. 2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,”are not allowed. 3. additional words made by adding a“d” or an “s” may not be used. 4. proper nouns, slang words,orvulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed.

ToDAy’s WoRD nAscEnT: NAY-sint: Having recentlycome into existence.

Average mark 20 words

Timelimit 30 minutes

Can youfind 26 or more words in NASCENT?

yEsTERDAy’s WoRD—FoRAGInG

today’s thought

“They went outfrom us, but they were notofus; forifthey had been of us, they would no doubt havecontinued with us: but they went out, that they mightbemade manifest that they were notall of us.” 1John2:19

wuzzles

marmaduKe

Bizarro

hagar the horriBle

Pearls Before swiNe

garfield

B.C.

PiCKles hidato

dIrectIons: make a2-to 7-letter word from the letters in each row. add points of each word using scoring directionsat right. Finally 7-letter words get 50-point bonus “Blanks”used as any letter havenopoint value. all the words arein the Official sCraBBlE® players Dictionary, 5th Edition. For more information on tournamentsand clubs, email naspa –northamericansCraBBlE playersassociation:info@scrabbleplayers.org. Visitour website: www.scrabbleplayers.org. For puzzle inquiries contact scrgrams@gmail.com. Hasbro andits logo sCraBBlE associated logo,the design of thedistinctive sCraBBlE brand gamecard, and thedistinctive letter tile designsare trademarks of Hasbro in

ken ken

InstructIons: 1 -Each row and each column must contain the numbers 1thorugh 4(easy) or 1through 6 (challenging) without repeating. 2 -The numbers within theheavily outlined boxes called cages must combine using thegiven operation (in any order) to produce the target numbers in thetop-left corners 3 -Freebies: Fill in the single-box cages withthe number in the top-left corner.

Yesterday’s Puzzle Answer

WiShinGWell

HErE is aplEasanT liTTlE gamEthat will give you amessageevery day.it’sa numerical puzzle designed to spell outyourfortune.Count theletters in your firstname. if thenumber of letters is 6ormore,subtract 4. if thenumber is less than 6, add 3. Theresult is your key number. start at theupper left-hand corner and checkeachofyourkey numbers, left to right. Then readthe message thecheckedfigures give you

Scrabble GramS

Get fuzzy

jump Start

roSe iS roSe

animal crackerS

DuStin

Drabble

Wallace the brave

breWSter rockit

luann

RUN FORIT

The officialcharity component of the LCMC HealthCrescent CityClassic.

The goal of “Run ForIt” is to raise $1 million annually andserve thegreater NewOrleans area’s needs.

Eachyear, theCrescent CityClassic Foundation selects local charities to support and partner withfor the10k race by giving them theplatform to fundraise fortheir individualmissions.

•Ainsley’s Angels in Greater NewOrleans

•American Foundation forSuicidePrevention

•Animal Rescue NewOrleans

•Bastion CommunityofResilience

•Coalition to RestoreCoastal Louisiana

•CommunityCenter of St. Bernard

•Covenant House

•East Jefferson GeneralHospital

•First Grace CommunityAlliance

•Friends of NewOrleans Public Library

•Gigi’sPlayhouse NewOrleans

•Girls on theRun NewOrleans

•Grace at theGreen Light

•Heart NHands

•Junior League NewOrleans

•Kids Join theFight

•LiveOak Camp

•Magnolia CommunityServices

•Manning Family Children’s Hospital

•New Orleans Habitat ForHumanity

•NoDaysOffline

•Saul’sLight

•Son of aSaint

•The Split Second Foundation

•Team Gleason

•TouroInfirmary

•Spirit of CharityFoundation at UMC

•West Jefferson Hospital Foundation

•YouthRun NOLA

PRE RACE 2-DAYEXPO

HyattRegencyNew Orleans 601Loyola Ave. -EliteHall |Level 1

DAY1

DAY2

Thursday April17

Open 2PM-7PM

FridayApril 18

Open 10AM -7PM

THE RACE

The Classic is true NewOrleans tradition!

The 10-kilometer course (6.2 miles)begins in DowntownNew Orleans in frontofthe Caesars Superdome, runs participants through theFrench Quarter and then all theway up beautiful Esplanade Ave. to NewOrleans CityPark. Seenextpage forcourse mapand road closure information.

CEFEST: THE FUNAFTER THERUN

Orleansevent end without aparty? music,food, and fun? In true NewOrleans style, scent CityClassic does just that, aparty in thepark.

The MichelobUltraRaceFest is held on race dayfrom8:30am to 1:00pm at theFestivalGrounds in CityPark. Scheduledtoperformis WhereY’acht

The RaceFest is free forrunners and children 5years or younger Friends andfamily can join youafter therace for$20 pre-sale, or $25 at thedoor.Fest passes can be purchased during onlineregistration at theexpo or on race day.

ALETTER F RACE DIREC

THE COURSE

Road ClosureInformation

Roads CLOSE along thecourseat7:15AM

Parking along therouteisprohibitedfrom 12AM -12PMonApril 19th.Unauthorized vehicleswill be towedatthe owner’sexpense. Thank youfor your cooperation.

Streets OPEN along route approximately:

9:15AM PoydrasStfromLoyola up to Canal St

9:30AM All of N. Peters

10:15AMAll of Esplanade Ave

10:30AM All of Moss St. &CityParkAve

11:15AM All Streets Open

Welcome to the47t 2025 has been an ener Runner participation and theMichelobU than ever! We’rethrill Sponsor—it’struly th and fitness througho erience

Serious runners, families and groups frolicking in costume (there’s acontest) “hit the streets” Saturday.Starting at 8a.m., the10K race begins at the CaesarsSuperdome, wends through the FrenchQuarter,up Esplanade Avenue, around City Park and ends at the FestivalGrounds. Registration forthe race is $70, whichincludes admission to RaceFest at theend. RaceFest onlystarts at $20. AfreeHealthand Fitness Expo at theHyatt Regency New Orleans isThursday andFriday. ccc10K.com.

french naval

ships don’tmiss don’tmiss don’t miss

Theannual Jeanne d’Arc mission, atraining schoolfor French Navy officers, starts its U.S. leg in the Crescent City.The amphibious group includes the PHA Mistral, the LaFayettetypefrigate Surcouf, helicopters, drones and landing craft, docked Monday through April 26 at the Julia StreetCruise Terminal, 920Port of New Orleans Place. Tours will be available.

crescent city classic‘nanibu’

anevening of reflection

Acommemoration of reflection for YomHaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day) will be at 6p.m. Tuesday at The National WWII Museum. In the U.S. Freedom Pavilion,the New Orleans Jewish Community Center Holocaust Committee event is dedicated to the approximately 6million Jews murdered duringthe war.Caren Rubin, amuseum trustee and daughter of asurvivor,will speak,joined by the Rev.Patrick Desbois, aHolocaust researcher andVatican adviser for Catholic-Jewish relations. A reception starts at 5p.m. nationalww2museum.org.

johnwaters’ ‘the nakedtruth’

The cult icon of film and Broadway brings his distinctive style to the Civic Theatre on Easter Sundayfor a7:30 p.m. show.Widely knownfor hisfilm and Broadway hits “Hairspray” and “Serial Mom,” Waters is also the mind behind “PinkFlamingos,” “Polyester” and“Female Trouble.” Tickets start at $35. civicnola.com.

The art and dance collective called gaudanse presents anew work, described as adancebased play merging movement, sounds and immersive staging. The show,produced by acollective of artists from New Orleans and New York, gets its world premiere at 8p.m. Friday at Marigny Opera House, 725 St. Ferdinand St. Tickets start at $10. marignyoperahouse.org.

LAGNIAPPE STAFF

The Lagniappe section is published each ThursdaybyThe Times-Picayune |The NewOrleans Advocate. All inquiriesabout Lagniappe shouldbe directed to theeditor.

LAGNIAPPE EDITOR: Annette Sisco, asisco@theadvocate.com

COVER DESIGN: Andrea Daniel

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Victor Andrews,Marco Cartolano, Doug MacCash, KeithSpera

GET LISTED IN LAGNIAPPE

Submit events to Lagniappe at least woweeksinadvance by sending an email to events@theadvocate.com.

ONTHE COVER

ahia Montanasmilesfrominsidea iant alligator heart created by artist rsaEyeratthe newlocation of JAMOLA on Frenchmen Street. Photo y Doug MacCash. MacCash takes a tour through theselfie-friendly art attraction ahead of itsreopening. Read his story on Page 6.

food food food

Local staples top lists of nation’s culinary favorites

BY MARCO CARTOLANO Staff writer

Two New Orleans institutions were honored by Food & Wine’s 2025 Global Tastemakers awards, with one being named the best bar in the country.

The magazine listed New Orleans as the fifth best city for food and drink, giving specific shoutouts to the Uptown bar Cure and Emeril’s downtown.

“New Orleans is celebrated for its culture, music, and joyful festivals. But the city may be best known for its culinary identity, thanks to a pitch-perfect blend of deeply rooted traditions and bold flavors,” Food & Wine’s Regan Stephens wrote.

As a Freret neighborhood staple and a leader in the city’s cocktail renaissance, Cure was named the country’s best bar. Cure is proof New Orleans remains the best city in the U.S. for

Cure, a neighborhood bar on Freret with a small but inviting space, was named the country’s best bar in Food & Wine magazine’s Global Tastemakers awards.

cocktails, according to Food & Wine.

“While Cure, which opened in 2009, hasn’t been the new kid in town for a while, some of the best drink-slingers in the country have cycled through its

doors,” Food & Wine’s Kara Newman wrote.

Neal Bodenheimer and Matthew Khonke opened Cure after restoring an Edwardian former horse-and-buggy fire station.

The bar is known for its reinventions of classic cocktails and additions to the American cocktail canon, like the Gunshop Fizz.

“Bam! Emeril’s has still got it. Next time you’re in New Orleans, come back for the tasting menu, with elegant interpretations of oyster stew and quail Milton,” Food & Wine’s Becky Duffett wrote.

E.J.

Emeril’s, a downtown classic that opened in 1990 and one of the most influential restaurants in modern American dining, was named the fifth-best restaurant in the U.S.

With a significant renovation and restaurant founder Emeril Lagasse’s son E.J. Lagasse now in charge, Emeril’s is still collecting accolades, such as an AAA Five Diamond designation in 2024, the first restaurant in Louisiana with the honor

While TimeOut ranked New Orleans as best in the world for food, Food & Wine placed it as No. 5 in the U.S. for food and drink, coming behind New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles and Austin, Texas.

The magazine determined its honorees in a multipart process that involved polling 400 chefs, travel experts, wine experts, food and travel writers worldwide, Food & Wine’s Global Advisory Board, and editors reviewing and ranking the nominees.

Email Marco Cartolano at marco. cartolano@theadvocate.com.

DISCOVER THE ONLY WWII CAMPAIGN FOUGHT ON NORTH AMERICAN SOIL SPECIAL EXHIBIT

This newexhibit examines the often-overlooked Japanese invasion of the Aleutian Islands in Alaskaand the subsequent efforts to repulse the only seizureofNorth American soil that occurred during World WarII.

FILE PHOTO By FRANKIE PRIJATEL

Lagasse

music music music

SUSANCOWSILL’S ‘COVERED IN VINYL’

FRIDAY,THE BROADSIDE

Susan Cowsill was only 8when she joined her older brothers and her mother onstage as the Cowsills. The group,the inspiration for TV’s“ThePartridgeFamily,” scored ahandfulofhits in the late 1960s, including“TheRain, thePark and Other Things,” “Indian Lake” and “Hair.” PostCowsills,she lived inLos Angeles for years, then settled in New Orleans as amember of the rootsrock all-star band theContinental Drifters. Post-Drifters, she finally started recording albums under her own name. For eight years, Cowsill, husband/ drummer Russ Broussard and various collaborators recreated aclassic albuminits entirety once amonth at Carrollton Station in aseries dubbed “Covered in Vinyl.” After ahiatus, Cowsill and Broussard resumed theseries on amore periodic basis at other venues. On Friday,they’ll recreate Joni Mitchell’s“Court & Spark” and “Blue” at theBroadside. They’ll be backed by Rene Coman, DaveJames,Michael Lemmler and special guest Beth Patterson. Ticketsstart at$25.

Email Keith Speraatkspera@ theadvocate.com.

SOUNDCHECK

It’sthe last“normal” week of music in New Orleans before music venues shift into overdrive for the New Orleans Jazz &Heritage Festival.

THURSDAY-FRIDAY,CHICKIE WAHWAH

Onenight during the 2024 30A Songwriters Festivalinthe Floridapanhandle, Atlanta’sDrivin NCryin, aquartet of rock ’n’ roll lifers, delivered 60 minutes of tight, bristling guitar rock at thepacked Grayton Beach outpost of AJ’s,abar withacurated thrift store/roadhouse vibe. The setlist leaned heavily on the band’s1989 album “Mystery Road”and 1991’s“Fly Me Courageous,”Drivin NCryin’scommercial peak. Alittle heavier than thefellow Georgians in R.E.M., Drivin NCryin notched ahandful of rock radio and roadhouse singalongs, including “Straight To Hell,”“Honeysuckle Blue” —which Jason Isbell &the 400 Unit sometimes cover —and the“Fly Me Courageous” titletrack. Still fronted by original singer/guitarist Kevn Kinney,Drivin NCryin logs two consecutive nightsof“an evening with” shows at Chickie WahWah on Thursday and Friday.Tickets are $25.

OTHERNOTEWORTHYSHOWS

THURSDAY

Saxophonist Brad Walker and his quartet team up with Galactic drummer StantonMoore at Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro on Frenchmen Street at 7:30 p.m.and 9:30 p.m.($35).

ChubbyCarrier &the BayouSwamp Band are featured forZydeco Night at Rock ’N’Bowl ($15).

FRIDAY

TheSoulRebels mixbrass band music with hip-hop influences at Tipitina’s. The hip-hop-flavored duo SaxKixAve opens the show at 9p.m. ($25).

The Little Freddie King Blues Band plugs in at d.b.a. on Frenchmen Street at 10 p.m. Moroccan-born, NewOrleansbased multi-instrumentalist Mahmoud “Mood”Chouki fronts his New WorldEnsemble at Snug Harbor at 7:30 p.m.and 9:30 p.m.($40). Drivin NCryin isback at Chickie WahWah forits second night.

Keith Spera

DRIVIN NCRYIN

Susan Cowsill

Drivin NCryin

Mahmoud Chouki

SATURDAY

music music music

Master New Orleans drummer Herlin Riley powers his ensemble at Snug Harborat7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.($45).

Decade-specific cover band Big in the 90s performs Weezer’s self-titled 1994 “blue” album in its entirety, along with other 1990s anthems,atthe Broadside Tickets start at $15.

Rapper Curren$y 420 hits theFillmore; tickets start at $45 plusfees.

DJ RQ Away hosts one of his periodic “Lagniappe”parties at Tipitina’s,starting at 11 p.m. ($25).

Horn-heavy cover band the Boogiemen throws down at Rock ’N’Bowl ($15).

SUNDAY

New Orleans bassist Jasen Weaver,who has backed awho’swho ofmodern jazz instrumentalists while also leading his own band, celebrates the release of his new album, “The Move,”withshows at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.at Snug Harbor ($30).

At the Maple Leaf Bar,it’s“Sketchy 420with Your Best Buds” JohnnySketch &The Dirty Notes,hitting the stage at 4:20 p.m. on April 20, aka 4/20. Tickets are $15 advance, $20 at thedoor.

Not to be outdone, it’s a“420 Easter” at the Broadside with The Iguanas performing from 4:20 p.m.to6 p.m., followed by Charlie and the Tropicales from 6:30 p.m. to 8p.m., followed by ascreening of the Cheech andChong movie “Up In Smoke.” Admission is free.

MONDAY

Meters bassist GeorgePorter Jr. leads his combo at 7p.m. and10p.m. at the Maple Leaf ($15 advance, $20 door).

TUESDAY

Guitarist and singer LukeWinslow-King brings his retro acoustic blues to

Chickie WahWah for an 8p.m. show ($20 advance, $30 door).

Experience Ashlin Parker’sTrumpet Ma at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. at Snug bor($20).

WEDNESDAY

On Jazz Fest Eve, St. Paul &the Broken Bones play thefirst of two sold-out shows at Tipitina’swith Sugadaisy

TheMaple Leaf Bar has abig night with two shows. Firstupfrom 6 p.m.to9 p.m. is “Happy Organ Hour” presentedby JoeAshlar and featuring Stanton Moore, DannyAbel and Brad Walker ($25 advance, $30 day of show). Then at 10 p.m., Pete Murano,best known as thelead guitarist in Trombone Shorty &Orleans Avenue, takes over the MapleLeaf stage with his own band ($20 advance, $25 at the door).

Avant-garde cellist Helen Gillet is joined by avant-jazz/funk saxophonist Skerik at Chickie WahWah ($20).

Keyboardist Richard Knox moved to New Orleans in 1966 and went on to playwith theDirty Dozen Brass Band, Kermit Ruffins, Dizzy Gillespie, the Neville Brothersand manyothers. He anchors his organ trio for afree show at Snug Harbor at 5p.m. Later on Wednesday, trombonist Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra takeover the Snug Harbor stage at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. ($45).

Luke

WinslowKing

STAFF

PHOTOSByDOUGMacCASH

Artconsultants Catherine Todd and Collin Ferguson, of Where y’ArtWorks, withJAMNOLA co-founder JonnyLiss

Selfie

staffmember and spoken

expression

JAMNOLA,the New Orleans artand culture attraction, has moved from Royal street in the FaubourgMarigny to amuch larger place on Frenchmen Street,with an arrayofmostly new, morespectacular walkthrough environments.

in

Unlike aconventional museum or artgallery, JAMNOLA is acasual experience wherevisitors become part of the scene, posing for selfies and otherwiseinteracting withthe 29 individualexperiences, created by local artists.

Everything in thevisual extravaganza is somehow tiedtothe city’sone-of-a-kind culture.Though the displays are not instructive or educational per se, theyprovide a taste of the town’s peculiarities, like aglowing pink gut of agiant alligator,aseat in an upside-down barroom or squeezed intothe world’stiniest nightclubs.

Artistic takesonCrescentCityculture

One of the mostmarvelous of the displays is alsothe smallest.InJane Tardo’s

closet-sized mechanical contraption, visitors place theircellphones on the throne of aminiature Mardi Gras float, which then spins through aNew Orleans landscape, producing amagical video “ride.” Brilliant!

Artist Artemis Antippas’ gold-lined “FeastMode” room is chock-a-block with luridly decadent artificial edibles, including bejeweled king cakes and glitter-dipped fried chicken. Plus, apothole studdedwith memorabilia of beloved New Orleans institutions thatain’tdere no more.

JAMNOLA also includesanabstract homage to thelegendary House of the Rising Sun brothel that was —asEric Burdonput it —“the ruin of many apoor boy.” Artist Walker Babington’stwo-story Victorian façade is fabulous and Julianne Lagniappe’sinterior decor is both sexy and very, very strange —with abedframe selfie backdrop, aceiling fan with blades shapedlike women’slegs and adisplay of artificial braided hair.

All exhibits were curated by art consultants Catherine Todd and Collin Ferguson, of WhereY’Art Works. Todd said she hoped to produce an “Alice in Wonderland” vibe

Only instead of arabbit hole, vi feel as if they’ve fallen into a m Mardi Gras bead-clogged, New storm drain.

Hittingpotholes alongthe way

Nothing about JAMNOLA (Jo Music, New Orleans Louisiana) easy for co-founders Jonny Lis Smith, who initially invested $7 the project. The attraction first arented space near the New Or ter for Creative Arts in late sum after being delayed for months VID pandemic. Happily,the art became apopular tourist destin unique diversion for locals. Seeking to buy alarger space Smith settled on the 13,000-squ former Alois J. Binder bakery a of Frenchmen and North Ramp The $5.4 million-plus renovatio toric site wasbeset by costly co complications, including afire i that started in the jaws of agig ing alligator head. The walk-through alligator he

Doug MacCash

Avisitor entersartist Walker Babington’stwo-story rendition of the ‘House of the RisingSun.’

JAMNOLA

word poet Reaux Fareal leads visit busts of NewOrleans musicians made by SkyeErie.

orsthrough an exhibit of huge

ArtistAdriane Butler’s contributions blend elements of Marie Laveau and Marie Antoinette.

NewJAMNOLA transformsa former enchmen

Street bakery toagallery of wonder

sitors will magical, Orleans oy, Art, has been s and Chad 750,000 in opened in rleans Cenmmer 2020, by the COtyfunhouse nation and a ,Liss and are-foot atthe corner part streets. n of the hisonstruction inFebruary antic, gapead by art-

ist Basqo Bim was restoredbyartistTyler Ainsworth, with newcypress kneesfor teethand Binder baking pans forscales. JAMNOLA is open for preview tours, though afew exhibits remain incomplete, including apromising Afrofuturist take on the Mardi Gras Indiantradition, envisioned by Gina Montana.A grand opening is planned in the coming weeks.

Email Doug MacCash at dmaccash@ theadvocate.com.

Jane Tardo’sdetailed artenvironment allows visitors to ride in avirtual Mardi Gras parade.

JAMNOLA

940 Frenchmen St.| jamnola.com

Admission is $33 foradults, $24 forchildren and $28 for students, seniorsand military.

JAMNOLA cofounders Chad Smith, left,and JonnyLisswith awalk-through alligator head by artists Basqo Bim and TylerAinsworth

events events events

The 15th annual NOLA Bunarchy — an anarchistic celebration of the pastel holiday with cocktails instead of candy — is Saturday.

Pre-Easter bar hop encourages costuming, cocktailing and anarchy NOLA Bunarchy

benefits La. SPCA

BY DOUG MacCASH Staff writer

We all know that on Easter Sunday morning, a bunny hops around town, tirelessly hiding colored eggs and chocolate. But what’s the Easter Bunny doing on the night before Easter?

There’s a chance that the otherwise-respectable rabbit will be out barhopping in the Marigny with a few hundred costumed partiers. Yep, it’s that time again The 15th annual NOLA Bunarchy — an anarchistic celebration of the pastel holiday with cocktails instead of candy — is Saturday.

NOLA Bunarchy founder Dan Sheridan said the first crawl took place in 2009 but skipped two years

ä See BAR HOP, page 10

ALL IN ONE BASKET

Three parades in the French Quarter rolling for Easter

BY DOUG MacCASH Staff writer

’Tis the season of Peeps, dyed eggs, lacy bonnets, white rabbits and mimosas. Naturally, in New Orleans, we celebrate Easter with parades aplenty, plus a bunny bar crawl.

The Official Gay Easter Parade through the French Quarter is annual feat of fashion with drag aplenty, Carnivalstyle dance troupes and music.

STAFF FILE PHOTO By DOUG MACCASH

STAFF FILE PHOTO By SCOTT THRELKELD

French Quarter Easter Parade — formerly the Chris Owens Easter Parade — is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a couple of changes to its route.

STAFF FILE

PHOTO By DAVID GRUNFELD

events events events

The big news in 2025 is that the route of the French Quarter Easter Parade — formerly the Chris Owens Easter Parade has changed to avoid Bourbon Street, as part of the city’s effort to to prevent a reoccurrence of the Jan 1 terror attack.

THE HISTORIC FRENCH QUARTER EASTER PARADE

9:45 A.M. SUNDAY

Once known as the Germaine Wells Easter Parade, the 68-year-old procession features convertibles and muledrawn carriages bearing passengers clad in spring attire including broad-brimmed bonnets, who toss plush bunnies and other throws.

The Historic French Quarter Easter Parade begins at Antoine’s Restaurant, 713 St. Louis St., and will roll through the streets until it reaches St. Louis Cathedral at 11 a.m. for Mass. After which, the riders will promenade in Jackson Square. At noon, the parade will depart the square and return to Antoine’s.

FRENCH QUARTER EASTER PARADE

1 P.M. SUNDAY

The route of the French Quarter Easter parade will be different in 2025. The procession will steer clear of Bourbon Street, as new safety protocols take effect in the city’s oldest neighborhood.

The parade begins on Royal Street at St. Louis, heading upriver. It turns left on Iberville Street, left on Decatur Street, left on Dumaine Street and left on Royal, disbanding where it began at St. Louis Street.

Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the French Quarter Easter parade will feature small floats with costumed riders who toss stuffed animals, candy and carrots to the crowd. Marching bands, Mardi Gras-style dance troupes, convertible cars and a human-sized plush Easter Bunny will join in the procession.

The French Quarter Easter Parade was formerly the Chris Owens Easter

ä See PARADES, page 10

STAFF PHOTO By SCOTT THRELKELD

The Historic French Quarter Easter Parade rolls through the streets before Mass at St. Louis Cathedral, after which members promenade in Jackson Square then head back to the start at Antoine’s.

events events events

The annual Gay Easter Parade, which rolls Sundayinthe French Quarter, benefits Food for Friends, adivision of CrescentCare.

STAFF FILE

By DAVID GRUNFELD

PARADES

Continued frompage9

Parade, named for the legendaryBourbon Street entertainer who presided overthe event from1983toher death in 2022. Herformer nightclub, at 500 Bourbon St., had beena French Quarter landmark for decades.

Adams said that in conversations just before her death at age 89, Owens proposed that the parade’s 40th anniversary roll be dedicated to F. Scott Fitzgerald’snovel “TheGreat Gatsby.” Adams said Owens loved the style ofthe Roaring’20sand had gone sofar as to sketch herown Gatsby-inspired Easter dress on anapkin.

To honor Owens’ wishes,the dressshe’d envisioned is being sewn and will be displayedona mannequin atop one of the floats,Adams said. Special Gatsby-esquethrows, including flapper

BAR HOP

Continued frompage8

because of the COVIDpandemic. The activity was inspired by asimilarromp in gritty Detroit, but it swiftly took on

OFFICIAL GAYEASTERPARADE

4P.M. SUNDAY

Begun in 2000, theannual carriage parade is a feast of Easter fashionand costuming. Expect drag aplenty,Carnival-style dancetroupes andmusic.

This year’sgrand marshals are Malaysia Walker, aformer Miss Black TransInternational, andWill Antill, who hastended bar at Rawhide, Café Lafitte in Exile, TheDouble Play andCrossing.

As in past years, the parade is afundraising eventfor Food for Friends, adivision of CrescentCare.

Theparadestarts at the corner of St.Ann and North Rampart streets.

Email Doug MacCash at dmaccash@ theadvocate.com.

aglittery New Orleans character

Bunarchy passes are $10 and up, with proceeds benefiting theLouisiana SPCA. Sheridan said the bar hop has thusfar raised $13,000 for New Orleans animal rescues.

This year’s NOLA Bunarchy poster is acollaboration of artists Mardi Claw,

Don Corbitt, Bryce Rabbits, Crude Things and Sid Oreinaro. New Orleans celebrity runaway dog Scrim seems to be racing through theforeground of theartwork.

Bunarchistswill assemble at 6p.m. at Marie’sBar,2483 Burgundy St. then migrate to the Friendly Bar,2301

Chartres St., by 7p.m. The floppyeared rabble arrives at Pepp’sPub, 706 Franklin Ave., by 8p.m. and drifts to the St. Roch Tavern, 1200 St. Roch Ave., at 9p.m.

For information and to purchase passes, visit noomoon.net/nolabunarchy.

PHOTO

headbands andopera gloves, will be tossed to lucky attendees.

stages stages stages

y’at pack The

Fairytales with alocal twistset forKenner’sRivertown

From the creative mind of RickyGraham comesa show aboutfairy tales, rooted in his childhood memories of cartoons with his inimitable New Orleanstouches, set to open next week in Kenner.

“Ricky Graham’sNew OrleansFairy Tales” at Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts puts ay’at accent on classic tales like“Little Red Riding Hood,” “Snow White” and “Rapunzel.”

“When Iwas akid, my biggest comic influenceswere Carol Burnett and “The Bullwinkle Show,” noted the auteur,“in particular,‘Fractured Fairy Tales.’ Now Iget to do my own version with aNew Orleans accent.

“My new show is alocal takeoff on classic Grimm’sfairy tales like‘Hansel and Gretna’ and ‘Rouxpunzel.’”

Graham has enlisted one of Rivertown’sstalwart directors.

“My major partner in crime is Gary Rucker who loves Bullwinkleand gets the whole ‘Fractured Fairy Tales’ vibe. He’sbeen helping shapethe stories, and he also talks good y’at.”

Joining Graham and Rucker are Jessie Terrebonne Thompson, Lisa Picone Love and VaticanLokey.

“The show is really for adults who are grown-up kids,” Graham said,“and younger people who find our y’at culture funny.”

The show is at 7:30 p.m. April 25-26 and 2p.m. April 27 at 325 Minor St. Tickets start at $35.Visitrivertowntheaters.com.

BardatTulane

Tulane University turnstoWilliam

Fromleft,Ricky Graham,Vatican Lokey,GaryRucker and Lisa Picone Love,aswell as Jessie Terrebonne Thompson, are set to open ‘Ricky Graham’s NewOrleans Fairy Tales’ on April 25 at Rivertown Theaters for the PerformingArtsinKenner

Shakespeare andMolière for summer shows with anod to humorwhenthe New Orleans Shakespeare Festival stages apairofshows andlagniappe events.

The summer kicks off with atranslation and adaptation of the17th-century Frenchplaywright Molière by Tulane’s Ryder Thornton,running June 6-22. Anne-Liese Juge Fox directs theshow.

And on June 25, billed as “what happens whenthe worldsofimprov and Shakespeare collide,” TheFools Ensemble will stage anew version of an improvised of aplay in the styleofthe Bard “that has never been performed before andwill neverbeperformed again.”

“King Lear” gets the unprompted Shakespeare treatmentonJune 28 when thecastmeets in themorning, rehearses thebloodyfamily tragedy and then performs theshowthatnight. The audiencegets achancetoperuse the script as it is projected on stage during the show.

Finally,the Bard’sever-popular “A MidsummerNight’sDream,” filled with fairies, thespians, amazonsand frolics through the woods, will run July 11-27. It’sdirected by Graham Burk. The shows areinthe LupinTheater of theDixonHallAnnexonNewcomb Circleatthe Uptown campus. Tickets vary perproduction andstart at $23. Visit neworleansshakespeare.org.

In production

“BING &THE BELLES”: 11:45 a.m. most Wednesdays through June 30; BB’s Stage DoorCanteen, National WWII Museum,945 Magazine St. The show reprises someofthe tunes Bing Crosby shared with service personnel around the globe and on Armed Forces Radio. Framed as the Victory Belles preparing forasurprise birthday party,the Ricky Graham-penned show features Richard Arnold as Crosby and arotating slate including Keyara Milliner,Allison Newton, Chloé Marie, Courtney Andersen, BreAnna Collier and KateGulotta. Tickets start at $20. national-ww2museum.org.

“HAMILTON”: 1p.m. and 7:30 p.m Thursday,8p.m. Friday,1p.m. and 8p.m. Saturday,1 p.m.Sunday; Saenger Theatre, 1111 Canal St. Crafted by Tony,Emmy and Grammy winner Lin-Manuel Miranda, the story looks at Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, his lifeand the infancy of the United States, all told with contemporary theatrical license. Tickets start at $94, plus there is alottery for$10 tickets. saengernola.com

“RENT”: 8p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2p.m. Sundays through April 27; Slidell Little Theatre, 2024 Nellie Drive. Agroup of artists in NewYork City in the latter part of the 20th century look at life, art, love and AIDS in the Tony-winning blockbuster that also wonthe Pulitzer Prize forauthor Jonathan Larson posthumously,loosely based on Giacomo Puccini’sopera “La Bohème.” Tickets start at $35. Visit slidelllittletheatre.org.

Email Victor Andrewsatvandrews@ theadvocate.com.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Victor Andrews