The Times-Picayune 06-15-2025 by The Advocate

Minnesota politicians killed, injured in attack

Manhuntunderwayfor suspectin‘politically motivatedassassination’

BY TIM SULLIVAN, STEVE KARNOWSKI and ALANNA DURKIN RICHER Associated Press

PARK,Minn.

BROOKLYN

Hundredsoflaw officers fanned out across aMinneapolis suburb Saturday in pursuit ofa man who authorities say posed as apolice officer and fatally shot aDemocratic statelawmaker in her home in what Gov.Tim Walz called“apolitically motivated assassination.” Authorities said the suspect also shot and wounded a second lawmaker and was believed to betrying to flee the area. Democratic former House Speaker Melissa Hortmanand her husband, Mark, were killed in their Brooklyn Park home. State Sen. John Hoffman, also aDemocrat,and his wife, Yvette, were injured at theirChamplin address, about 9miles away Authorities identified the suspect as 57-year-old Vance Boelter,and the FBI issued areward of upto$50,000 for information leading to hisarrest

ä See ATTACK, page 6A

POMP AND PROTESTS

parade barrelsthrough nation’s capitalwithtanks, troops and21-gunsalute as ‘NoKings Day’ ralliesare held nationwide

ThousandsinNew Orleans gather on streetspeacefully

BY MISSY WILKINSON Staff writer

BY LOLITA C. BALDOR and MICHELLE L. PRICE Associated Press

Louisiana lawmakers wrapped up the 2025 legislativesession on Thursday. See some of the biggest topics from the session and the most high-profile bills that passed andfailed. Page 12A 2025 LOUISIANALEGISLATURE

Severalthousand protesters

ﬂooded the streets of downtown NewOrleans on Saturday to demonstrate against what organizers called PresidentDonald Trump’s“authoritarianism, billionaire-ﬁrst politics, and the militarization of democracy.”

The ‘No Kings’ protest was part of aseries of demonstrations in cities across the nation, including Covington,Baton Rouge and Lafayette, scheduled to coincide withanelaborate military parade organizedbythe Trump administration on theNationalMall to commemoratethe U.S.Army’s250th anniversary Saturdaywas alsoFlag Day and the president’s 79th birthday.

WASHINGTON The grand military parade that President DonaldTrump hadbeen wanting for yearsbarreleddown Constitution Avenue on Saturday with tanks, troops and a21-gun salute, playing out against acounterpointofprotests aroundthe country by those whodecried the U.S. leader as adictator and would-be king.

The Republican president, on his 79th birthday,sat on a special viewing stand south of the White House to watch the display of American military might, whichbegan early and moved swiftly as light rain fell andcloudsshrouded theWashington Monument.The procession, with more than6,000 soldiers and 128 Army tanks, was oneTrump triedtomake happen in hisﬁrsttermafter seeing such an event in Paris in 2017,but theplans nevercame ä See POMP, page 3A

Cousins seek to reunitefamilyas lineage is traced Ellen Dionne Alverez learns about her family tree in NewOrleans on Sunday.

Alverez is a second cousin of Pope Leo XIV

BY DESIREE STENNETT |Staff writer

Twogenerationsbefore hisbirth, PopeLeo XIV’s New Orleansfamily splintered along racial lines. On oneside, thosewho were fair-

skinned passed for White. The other side continuedon as Black

Most of the family left Louisiana morethan acentury ago, but according to genealogist Jari Honora, who has been studying the pope’s local ancestry,two branchesofthe ex-

ä See FAMILY, page 8A

STAFF PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER Protestors walk on Frenchmen Street during the ‘No Kings’ protest in the Marignyneighborhood of NewOrleans on Saturday.The protest was partof demonstrations in cities across the nation.

Hoffman

Hortman

ASSOCIATEDPRESS PHOTOByJULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON

the U.S. Army’s250th anniversary, coinciding withhis 79th

BRIEFS FROM WIRE REPORTS

Pope speaks by video at White Sox stadium

In his first words directed specifically to Americans, Pope Leo XIV told young people on Saturday how to find hope and meaning in their lives through God and in service to others.

“So many people who suffer from different experiences of depression or sadness they can discover that the love of God is truly healing, that it brings hope,” the ﬁrst American pope said in a video broadcast on the jumbotron at the White Sox baseball stadium in Chicago.

The event — set in Leo’s hometown and at the home stadium of his favorite major league team was organized by the Archdiocese of Chicago in honor of his recent election as pope. Leo seized the opportunity to speak directly to young people, tying his message to the Catholic Church’s ongoing Jubilee year of hope that was declared by Pope Francis In Saturday’s message, Leo urged those listening in the stadium and online to be beacons of hope capable of inspiring others.

“To share that message of hope with one another in outreach, in service, in looking for ways to make our world a better place gives true life to all of us, and is a sign of hope for the whole world.”

Putin, Trump have Saturday phone call

Russian President Vladimir Putin and U.S. President Donald Trump held a lengthy call Saturday to discuss the escalating situation in the Middle East and Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Trump in a posting on his Truth Social platform said they spent the bulk of their conversation focused on Israel’s ongoing blistering attacks aimed at decapitating Iran’s nuclear program and Iran’s retaliatory strikes. But Trump said that he also pressed Putin to end Russia’s war in Ukraine.

“He feels, as do I, this war in Israel-Iran should end, to which I explained, his war should also end,” said Trump, who added the conversation went about an hour.

Putin foreign affairs adviser Yuri Ushakov said Putin briefed Trump on his recent talks with the leaders of Iran and Israel and reiterated Russia’s proposal to seek mutually acceptable solutions on the Iranian nuclear issue.

“Vladimir Putin, having condemned the military operation against Iran, expressed serious concern about the possible escalation of the conﬂict,” Ushakov told reporters. He added that Putin raised concerns that escalating conﬂict between Israel and Iran threatened “unpredictable consequences for the entire situation in the Middle East.”

Putin also emphasized Russia’s readiness to carry out possible mediation efforts, and noted that Russia had proposed steps “aimed at ﬁnding mutually acceptable agreements” during U.S.-Iran negotiations on the Iranian nuclear program.

U.S. man accused of killings in Rome

MILAN Greek authorities detained an American man on Friday on the Greek island of Skiathos suspected of killing an infant found over the weekend in a Rome park and of having a role in the death of a woman believed to be the infant’s mother, whose body was found nearby

The American, who wasn’t identiﬁed, was detained on a European arrest warrant issued in Italy, citing “strong evidence” of his suspected involvement in the death of the baby girl, chief Rome prosecutor Francesco Lo Voi told a news conference in Rome. Italian investigators said that the cause of the woman’s death wasn’t known, “but there is a reasonable suspicion that it is a double murder,” deputy prosecutor Giuseppe Cascini said.

The bodies of the baby girl and mother, also believed to be American, were found in Rome’s Villa Pamphili park on Saturday

The mother’s body was under a black bag, having been killed several days before the infant, who was found several hundred meters away in undergrowth.

Both were naked, and without any identiﬁcation, Lo Voi said.

The suspect, who witnesses had seen in the presence of a woman and infant, ﬂed Italy for Skiathos on Wednesday, Lo Voi said.

Israel targets Iran’s Defense Ministry HQ

Tehran unleashes more strikes; Sunday’s U.S.-Iran nuclear talks canceled

BY JON GAMBRELL, MELANIE LIDMAN and JULIA FRANKEL

Associated Press

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates Israel launched an expanded assault on Iran on Sunday, with direct strikes targeting its energy industry and Defense Ministry headquarters, while Tehran unleashed a fresh barrage of missiles blamed for the deaths of four people.

The simultaneous strikes represented the latest salvo since a surprise attack by Israel two days earlier aimed at decimating Tehran’s rapidly advancing nuclear program.

New explosions boomed across Tehran as Iranian missiles entered Israel’s skies in an attack that Israeli emergency officials said killed four people in an apartment building in the Galilee region. Casualty ﬁgures weren’t immediately available in Iran, where Israel targeted its Defense Ministry headquarters in Tehran as well as sites that it alleged were associated with the country’s nuclear program Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard claimed that Iranian missiles targeted fuel production facilities for Israeli

ﬁghter jets something not acknowledged by Israel.

Amid the continued conﬂict, planned negotiations between Iran and the United States over Tehran’s nuclear program were canceled, throwing into question when and how an end to the ﬁghting could come.

“Tehran is burning,” Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said on social media.

Both Israel’s military and Iran state television announced the latest round of Iranian missiles as explosions were heard near midnight while the Israeli security cabinet met.

Israel’s ongoing strikes across Iran have left the country’s surviving leadership with the difficult decision of whether to plunge deeper into conﬂict with Israel’s more powerful forces or seek a diplo-

matic route.

Calls to de-escalate

World leaders made urgent calls to de-escalate and avoid all-out war The attack on nuclear sites set a “dangerous precedent,” China’s foreign minister said. The region is already on edge as Israel makes a new push to eliminate the Iranian-backed militant group Hamas in Gaza after 20 months of ﬁghting.

Israel — widely believed to be the only nuclear-armed state in the Middle East — said its hundreds of strikes on Iran over the past two days have killed a number of top generals, nine senior scientists and experts involved in Iran’s nuclear program.

Iran’s U.N. ambassador has said 78 people were killed and more than 320 wounded U.S. intelligence agencies

and the International Atomic Energy Agency have repeatedly said Iran was not pursuing a nuclear weapon before Israel unleashed its campaign of airstrikes targeting Iran beginning Friday

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has made the destruction of Iran’s nuclear program his top priority, said Israel’s strikes so far are “nothing compared to what they will feel under the sway of our forces in the coming days.” In what could be another escalation if confirmed, semiofficial Iranian news agencies reported an Israeli drone struck and caused a “strong explosion” at an Iranian natural-gas processing plant. It would be the ﬁrst Israeli attack on Iran’s oil and natural gas industry Israel’s military did not im-

mediately comment. The extent of damage at the South Pars natural gas ﬁeld was not immediately clear Such sites have air defense systems around them, which Israel has been targeting.

Nuclear talks

The sixth round of U.S.Iran indirect talks on Sunday over Iran ’s nuclear program will not take place, mediator Oman said. “We remain committed to talks and hope the Iranians will come to the table soon,” said a senior U.S. ofﬁcial, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss diplomacy Iran says its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes only, and U.S. intelligence agencies have assessed that Tehran was not actively pursuing the bomb But its uranium enrichment has reached near weapons-grade levels and on Thursday, the U.N.’s atomic watchdog censured Iran for not complying with obligations meant to prevent it from developing a nuclear weapon. Iran’s top diplomat said Saturday the nuclear talks were “unjustifiable” after Israel’s strikes. Abbas Araghchi’s comments came during a call with Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s top diplomat.

The Israeli airstrikes were the “result of the direct support by Washington,” Araghchi said in a statement carried by the state-run IRNA news agency The U.S. has said it isn’t part of the strikes.

Zelenskyy warns oil price surge could help Russia

BY SAMYA KULLAB Associated Press

KYIV, Ukraine A sharp rise in global oil prices following Israeli strikes on Iran will beneﬁt Russia and bolster its military capabilities in the war in Ukraine, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Friday in comments that were under embargo until Saturday afternoon.

Speaking to journalists in Kyiv, Zelenskyy said the surge in oil prices threatens Ukraine’s position on the battleﬁeld, especially

because Western allies have not enforced effective price caps on Russian oil exports.

“The strikes led to a sharp increase in the price of oil, which is negative for us,” Zelenskyy said. “The Russians are getting stronger due to greater income from oil exports.”

Global oil prices rose

Death toll in Indian plane crash climbs to 270 people

BY AIJAZ HUSSAIN, PIYUSH NAGPAL and SHONAL GANGULY Associated Press

AHMEDABAD, India Search and recovery teams continued scouring the site of one of India’s worst aviation disasters for a third day after the Air India ﬂight fell from the sky and killed at least 270 people in Gujarat state, ofﬁcials said Saturday

The London-bound Boeing 787 struck a medical college hostel in a residential area of the northwestern city of Ahmedabad minutes after takeoff Thursday, killing 241 people on board and at least 29 on the ground. One passenger survived. Recovery teams working until late Friday found at least 25 more bodies in the debris, ofﬁcials said.

Dr. Dhaval Gameti at the Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad told The Associated Press the facility had received 270 bodies, adding that the lone surviving passenger was still under observation for some of his wounds.

“He is doing very well and will be ready to be discharged anytime soon,” Gameti said Saturday. Hundreds of relatives of the crash victims have provided DNA samples at the hospital. Most bodies were charred or mutilated, making them unrecognizable.

Some relatives expressed frustration Saturday that the process was taking too long. Authorities say it normally takes up to 72 hours to complete DNA matching and they are expediting the process.

as much as 7% after Israel and Iran exchanged attacks over the past 48 hours, raising concerns that further escalation in the region could disrupt oil exports from the Middle East

Zelenskyy said he planned to raise the issue in an upcoming conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump.

“In the near future, I will be in contact with the American side, I think with the president, and we will raise this issue,” he said.

Zelenskyy also ex-

People look at the wreckage from Thursday’s Air India plane crash lying atop a building on Saturday in Ahmedabad, India.

“Where are my children? Did you recover them?” asked Rafiq Abdullah, whose nephew, daughter-in-law and two grandchildren were on the ﬂight. “I will have to ask questions. Government is not answering these questions.”

Another relative persistently asked hospital staff when his relative’s body would be handed over to the family for last rites.

“Give us the body,” the relative insisted. Alongside the formal investigation, the Indian government says it has formed a high-level, multidisciplinary committee to examine the causes leading to the crash.

The committee will focus on formulating procedures to prevent and handle aircraft emergencies in the future and “will not be a substitute to other enquiries being conducted by relevant organizations,” the Ministry of Civil Aviation said in a statement Authorities have begun inspecting Air India’s entire fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, Indian Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu said Saturday in New Delhi at his first news briefing since Thursday’s crash.

Eight of the 34 Dreamliner aircraft in India have already undergone inspection, Kinjarapu said, adding that the remaining aircraft will be examined with “immediate urgency.”

pressed concern that U.S. military aid could be diverted away from Ukraine toward Israel during renewed tensions in the Middle East.

“We would like aid to Ukraine not to decrease because of this,” he said. “Last time, this was a factor that slowed down aid to Ukraine.”

Ukraine’s military needs have been sidelined by the United States in favor of supporting Israel Zelenskyy said, citing a shipment of 20,000 interceptor missiles, designed to counter

Iran-made Shahed drones, that had been intended for Ukraine but were redirected to Israel.

“And for us it was a blow,” he said. “When you face 300 to 400 drones a day, most are shot down or go off course, but some get through. We were counting on those missiles.”

An air defense system, Barak-8, promised to Ukraine by Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu was sent to the U.S. for repairs but never delivered to Ukraine, Zelenskyy said.

Zelenskyy

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By RAFIQ MAQBOOL

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By VAHID SALEMI

strike on Sunday in Tehran, Iran.

together until the parade was added to an event recognizing the Army’s250th anniversary

“Every other country celebrates their victories.It’s about time America didtoo,” Trump declared in brief remarks at the parade’send.

The president praised the strength of the military’s fighting forces and said U.S. soldiers “fight, fight, fight and theywin,win,win”—putting anew twist on alinethat Trumpregularlydelivered during his 2024 campaign rallies after he survived an assassination attempt.

Early in the evening’spageantry,the Army’sGolden Knights parachute team descended from overcast skies toward the reviewing stand

The team had been scheduled to appear at theend of theparade, butjumpedearlier than planned in the drizzly skies above the National Mall.

At times, Trump stood and salutedastroops marched past the reviewing stand. But attendance appearedto fall far short of earlypredictions that as many as 200,000 people would attend the festival and parade. There were large gaps between viewers near the Washington Monument on aday when steamy weather and the threat of thunderstorms could have dampened turnout.

Hours before the parade started, demonstrators turned out in streets and parks around the nation to sound off against the Republican president. They criticized Trump for using the military to respond to people protesting hisdeportationefforts and for the muscular military show in the U.S.capital.

Displays of military might

The daylong display of America’sArmy came as Trump has shown his willingness to use the nation’s military might in ways other U.S. presidents have typically avoided. In thelastweek, he has activated the California National Guardover the governor’sobjections and dispatched the U.S. Marines to provide security during LosAngelesprotestsrelated to immigration raids, prompting astate lawsuit to stop the deployments As armoredvehicles rolled down the street in front of the president, on the other side of thecountry,the Marines who Trump deployed to Los Angeles appeared at ademonstration for the ﬁrst time, standing guard outside afederal building. Dozensof Marines stood shoulderto shoulder in full combat gear beside the National Guard, Homeland Security ofﬁcers and other law enforcement. Hundreds of protesters facing them jeeredinEnglish and Spanish, telling the troops to go home.

Apreviously calm demonstration in downtown Los Angeles turned chaotic when police on horseback charged at the crowd, striking some with rods and batonsasthey clearedthe street in front of the federal

U.S.

President

building and ﬁred tear gas and crowd control projectiles.

In Washington, hundreds protesting Trump carried signs with messages that included “Where’sthe due process?” and “NotoTrump’s fascist military parade” as theymarched toward the White House.

Alarger-than-lifepuppet of Trump was wheeled through thecrowd,acaricature of the president wearinga crown andsittingona goldentoilet.

Otherprotesterswaved pride ﬂags and hoisted signs, some with pointedmessages such as “I prefer crushed ICE,” referring to the Immigration and CustomsEnforcementagency.Other messages included “The invasion was HERE Jan. 6th, NOT in L.A.”and “Flip me off if you’re aFASCIST.”

“No Kings” rallies unfolded in hundreds of cities, designed to counterwhatorganizerssaidwereTrump’s plans to feed his ego on his 79thbirthday and FlagDay Organizers said they picked thename to support democracy and speak out against what they call the authoritarian actions of the Trump administration

Supporters andprotesters

Meanwhile, on theNational Mall, adisplay of armored vehicles,helicopters and military-grade equipment was setuptocommemorate theArmy’sbirthday Vendors outside the Army festival soldgear marking the military milestone. Others hawked Trump-themed merchandise.

Larry Stallard, aretired American Airlines pilot, said he traveled to WashingtonfromKansas Cityfor the weekend“to see the military and see Trump.”

Stallard, who voted for Trump, saiditwas “hard to believe”people were upset about the costofthe event when “theyblow thatin10 seconds on things that we don’teven need.”

Doug Haynes, aNavy veteran who voted for Trump, attended the daylong festivaltocelebrate theArmy’s 250th birthday,but saidthe parade “was alittle over the top.”

Pointing at anearby tank, Haynes said that having themroll down the street is a“verybold statementtothe world, perhaps.”

Theparadewas added just two monthsago to the

long-planned celebration of theArmy’sbirthday and has drawn criticism for its price tag of up to $45 million and thepossibility that the lum-

Military personnel parade during the U.S. Army’s250th anniversary, coinciding with President DonaldTrump’s 79th birthday, on Saturday

the route. About 6in10Americans said Saturday’sparade was “nota good use”ofgovernment money.The vast majority of people,78%,said they neitherapprove nor disapprove of theparade overall, according to apoll fromThe Associated PressNORC Center forPublic Affairs Research.

Kathy Straus traveled from Richmond, Virginia, to attend the parade, carrying asign criticizing its costand arguing the money could have been usedtofeed veterans.

“I thought that it would be moreeffective to come here than go to aprotest withpeoplethat think similar to me,” said Straus.

Theparade wounddown Constitution Avenue, lined withsecurityfencing and barriers. Aﬂyover of military aircraft included World WarII-era planes, including aB-25 Mitchell bomber,and Army helicopters ﬂewlow over the crowd, below the top of the Washington Monument. Mounted soldiers fromthe 1stCavalry Division madeanappearance horses once played acrucial roleinwarfare,but today they’re mostly used in ceremonial events like today’s parade.

Trump swore in 250 new recruits and returning soldiers into service, with soldiers repeating an oath after him

bering tanks could tear up city streets. The Army has taken avariety of stepsto protect the streets, including laying metal plates along

“Welcome to theUnited States Army! And have a great life,” Trump said to them afterward. Country music singerWarrenZeiders performed, as did “God Bless the U.S.A.” singerLee Greenwood.The eventwas cappedoff by a fireworks show It appeared that plans to have U.S. Air Force fighter jets fly over werescrapped because of the weather Associated Press writers Eric Tucker,Michelle L. Price, Nathan Ellgren, Lea Skene, Olivia Diaz, Joey Cappelletti, Ashraf Khalil and Tara Copp in Washington and Jake Offenhartz in Los Angeles contributed to this report.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON

Donald Trumpsalutes as he attendsa military paradecommemoratingthe

with

rstladyMelania Trump watch on Saturday.

Protesters demonstrate across the nation

New York City

BY MARC LEVY and CLAUDIA LAUER Associated Press

PHILADELPHIA Demonstra-

tors crowded into streets, parks and plazas across the U.S. on Saturday to protest

President Donald Trump, marching through downtowns and blaring anti-authoritarian chants mixed with support for protecting democracy and immigrant rights.

Organizers of the “No Kings” demonstrations said millions had marched in hundreds of events

Governors across the U.S. had urged calm and vowed no tolerance for violence, while some mobilized the National Guard ahead of marchers gathering. Confrontations were isolated.

Huge, boisterous crowds marched in New York, Denver, Chicago, Houston and Los Angeles, some behind “no kings” banners.

Atlanta’s 5,000-capacity event quickly reached its limit, with thousands more gathered outside barriers to hear speakers in front of the state Capitol.

Light rain fell as marchers gathered for the flagship rally in Philadelphia. They shouted “Whose streets? Our streets!” as they marched to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where they listened to speakers on the steps made famous in the movie “Rocky.”

“So what do you say Philly?” Democratic U.S. Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland shouted to the crowd.

“Are you ready to fight back? Do you want a gangster state or do you want free speech in America?” Trump was in Washington for a military parade marking the Army’s 250th anniversary that coincides with the president’s birthday About 200 protesters assembled in northwest Washington’s Logan Circle and chanted “Trump must go now” before erupting in cheers. A larger-thanlife puppet of Trump — a caricature of the president wearing a crown and sitting on a golden toilet — was wheeled through the crowd.

In some places, organizers handed out little American flags while others flew their flags upside down, a sign of distress Mexican flags, which have become a fixture of the Los Angeles protests against immigration raids, also made an appearance at some demonstrations Saturday

In Minnesota, organizers canceled demonstrations as police worked to track down a suspect in the shootings of two Democratic legislators and their spouses.

In Charlotte, demonstrators trying to march

through downtown brieﬂy faced off with police forming a barricade with their bicycles, chanting “let us walk,” while law enforcement in northern Atlanta deployed tear gas to divert several hundred protesters heading toward Interstate 285. In Florida, one march approached the gates of Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, where sheriff’s deputies turned them back.

The demonstrations come on the heels of protests over federal immigration enforcement raids that began last week, and Trump ordering the National Guard and Marines to Los Angeles, where protesters blocked a freeway and set cars on ﬁre Philadelphia

Thousands gathered downtown, where organizers handed out small American ﬂags and people carried protest signs saying “ﬁght oligarchy” and “deport the mini-Mussolinis.”

Karen Van Trieste, a 61-year-old nurse who drove up from Maryland, said she grew up in Philadelphia and wanted to be with a large group of people showing her support.

“I just feel like we need to defend our democracy,” she said She is concerned

about the Trump administration’s layoffs of staff at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the fate of immigrant communities and Trump trying to rule by executive order, she said.

A woman wearing a foam Statue of Liberty crown brought a speaker system and led an anti-Trump singalong, changing the words “young man” in the song “Y.M.C.A.” to “con man.”

Los Angeles

Thousands gathered in front of City Hall, waving signs and listening to a Native American drum circle before marching through the streets.

As protesters passed National Guard troops or U.S. Marines stationed at various buildings, most interactions were friendly, with demonstrators giving fist bumps or posing for selﬁes, but others chanted “shame” or “go home” at the troops.

Amid signs reading “They fear us, don’t back down California” and “We carry dreams not danger,” one demonstrator carried a 2-foot-tall Trump piñata on a stick, with a crown on his head and a sombrero hanging off his back. Another hoisted a huge helium-ﬁlled orange baby balloon with blond hair styled like Trump’s.

A few blocks from City Hall, protesters gathered in front of the downtown federal detention center being guarded by a line of Marines.

Peter Varadi, 54, said he voted for Trump last November for “economic reasons.” Now, for the ﬁrst time in his life, he is protesting, waving

a Mexican and U.S. combined ﬂag.

“I voted for Donald Trump, and now I regret that, because he’s taken this fascism to a new level,” Varadi said. “It’s Latinos now Who’s next? It’s gays. Blacks after that. They’re coming for everybody.”

Marchers in the crowd that stretched for blocks along Fifth Avenue had diverse reasons for coming, including anger over Trump’s immigration policies, support for the Palestinian people and outrage over what they said was erosion of free speech rights.

But there were patriotic symbols, too. Leah Griswold, 32, and Amber Laree, 59, who marched in suffragette white dresses, brought 250 American ﬂags to hand out to people in the crowd.

“Our mothers who came out, fought for our rights, and now we’re ﬁghting for future generations as well,” Griswold said.

Some protesters held signs denouncing Trump while others banged drums.

“We’re here because we’re worried about the existential crisis of this country and the planet and our species,” said Sean Kryston, 28.

Mississippi

A demonstration of hundreds of people opened to “War Pigs” by Black Sabbath playing over a sound system on the State Capitol lawn in Jackson.

“A lot of stuff that’s going on now is targeting people of color, and to see so many folks out here that aren’t black or brown ﬁghting for the same causes that I’m here for it makes me very emotional,” said Tony Cropper, who traveled from Tennessee to attend the protest. Some people wore tinfoil crowns atop their heads. Others held signs inviting motorists

ASSOCIATED

As the parade started rolling shortly after 10 a.m., Monique Motil stood near the Marigny lineup spot amid throngs of colorfully garbed demonstrators dressed as a ﬂag-draped Statue of Liberty, a metaphor for the country she and others feel is threatened.

“This is all scraps mended to make a flag,” she said. “We need to work together to ﬁx our country I got my needle to stitch us together into a cohesive country that works for everyone.”

Demonstrators held signs protesting the military parade and a range of Trump administration policies, including immigration-related arrests, mass deportations and potential cuts to Medicaid.

“All of us see a growing sentiment of authoritarianism,” said Roscoe Johnson. “We are out here to take the first step toward connections that allow us to confront this and fight it anyway we need to.”

Marchers made their way from Mandeville and Decatur streets toward Washington Square Park.

A handful of New Orleans Police Department units stood by, but there was no evidence of any disruptions among the participants. In spite of the dire warnings about the fate of democracy, the overall mood was typical of a New Orleans street parade — “joyful, kind, hopeful, determined,” said glitter-clad participant Laurin Hart. Protesters marched down Decatur Street, dressed in tutus and sequins, carrying rainbow parasols and American flags, many with children and pets in tow In Baton Rouge, several hundred gathered downtown near the State Capitol, where protesters decried the Trump administration’s mass layoffs at government agencies and noted the contrast with the cost of a military parade.

Baton Rouge resident Jan Bernard said she attended on behalf of people like her friend, who depends on Medicaid and is unable to work due to heart problems.

“That’s why I’m out here,” she said. On the northshore hundreds gathered in Covington, chanting “this is what democracy looks like!” There was also a smattering of pro-Trump counter-demonstrators across the street, and words were exchanged, though things remained mostly civil between the two groups. Annie Robertson, a former vice president of the Northshore Democratic Women’s Club, said she thought it was “disgraceful that we have government money to pay for millions of dollars for (Trump’s military) parade, but we have no money to fund” basic services.

The military parade, part of a larger anniversary festival, was already in the works earlier this

spring when the president announced his intention to ratchet up the event into a full-scale military parade on his birthday — the ﬁrst major military parade in Washington since 1991.

Beth Davis, the No Kings organizer echoed those sentiments, saying Louisianans are “losing FEMA response, health care funding through Medicaid, and the National Weather Service predictions heading into hurricane season. If we have money for a parade, we have money to protect Louisianans.”

The parade has divided veterans, with critics calling it a veiled celebration of

Trump’s birthday as the administration makes cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs. In New Orleans, former U.S. Navy diver and retired merchant marine seaman Wilson Johns said he showed up to protest fascism.

“My uncle died in France fighting fascism,” said Johns. “I’m pro-Constitution.”

Late Friday Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill issued a statement warning demonstrators not to damage property

“The First Amendment guarantees the right to peacefully assemble and

petition the government — it does not protect anarchy, vandalism, or rioting,” she wrote on social media. “This isn’t California. I’ll defend constitutionally protected activity, but I’ll prosecute criminal actions.”

As it turned out, there was no need for concern: An estimated 6,500 protesters gathered “without a single violent incident,” Davis said following the parade. The crowds dispersed shortly after arriving at Washington Square Park. Times-Picayune Staff Reporter Willie Swett and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

MEETINGNOTICE

Public Workshop Meetings

The St. Tammany Parish Comprehensive Pedestrian &Bicycle Plan is rolling along! The plan is being undertaken to guide policies and recommendations for new pedestrian and bicycle facilities in the Parish. The project team has so far inventoried St. Tammany's non-motorized transportation network, identified networkgaps, and received public input on desired areas of improvement. Based upon that input, the project team has also completed a draft bicycle and pedestrian network map showing existing and proposed new bicycle and pedestrian improvements, as well as policy and program recommendations,including a draft Complete Streets Policy for the Parish.

We are looking to share our work with you and receive your input and feedback on these draft items. We will be presenting these items for your review and comment during TWO (2) public workshop meetings in July:

Tuesday, July 15, 2025St. Tammany Parish GovernmentAdministrativeComplex 21454 KoopDr, Mandeville, LA 70471 5:30 -7:30 PM Thursday, July 17, 2025 –St. TammanyParish Administrative Complex(Towers Building) 520 OldSpanish Trail, Slidell, LA 70458 5:30 -7:30 PM

The workshop meetings will be held in an “open house” format and will have aseries of stations of exhibits manned by staff and aPowerPoint presentation. Attendees can come to theworkshop any time during the meeting time period and can stay for as long as they see fit. At these workshop meetings, participants will have opportunities to engage in hands-on activities. The workshops will also featurevisualizations and imagery showcasing various types of bike and pedestrian facilities proposed in the draft network. Information packet hand-outs willbeavailable to the public at the meetings, which will include aproject background, comment forms and surveys.Comments and surveys may be submitted at the meeting, or may be mailed or emailed to the following addresses, postmarked within ten days of the 2nd meetingdate (byJuly 27, 2025):

Mr. Bruce Richards N-Y Associates, Inc.

ATTN: St. Tammany Parish Comprehensive Pedestrian & Bicycle Master Plan 2750 Lake Villa Drive Metairie, LA 70002

email: brichards@n-yassociates.com

STAFF PHOTOS By SOPHIA GERMER

Krewe de Lune marches during the ‘No Kings’ protest in the Marigny neighborhood of New Orleans on Saturday

Protesters walk on Frenchmen Street during the ‘No Kings’ protest in the Marigny neighborhood of New Orleans on Saturday

Protesters walk through the Marigny neighborhood during the ‘No Kings’ protest in New Orleans.

and conviction. Authorities displayed a photo taken Saturday of Boelter wearing a tan cowboy hat and asked the public to report sightings. Drew Evans, superintendent of the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, said investigators obtained video as well. He did not give details on a possible motive.

Boelter is a former political appointee who served on the same state workforce development board as Hoffman, records show though it was not clear if or how well they knew each other

The early morning attacks prompted warnings to other elected officials around the state and the cancellation of planned “No Kings” demonstrations against President Donald Trump. Authorities said the suspect had “No Kings” flyers in his car and writings mentioning the names of the victims as well as other lawmakers and officials, though they could not say if he had any other specific targets.

A Minnesota official told The Associated Press that the suspect’s writings also contained information targeting prominent lawmakers who have been outspoken in favor of abortion rights. The ofﬁcial spoke on the condition of anonymity because the investigation was ongoing.

The shootings happened at a time when political leaders nationwide have been attacked, harassed and intimidated amid deep political divisions.

“We must all, in Minnesota and across the country, stand against all forms of political violence,” Walz, a Democrat, said at a news conference. “Those responsible for this will be held accountable.”

Law enforcement agents recovered several AK-style ﬁrearms from the suspect’s vehicle, and he was believed to still be armed with a pis-

tol, a person familiar with the matter told AP The person could not publicly discuss details of the investigation and spoke on condition of anonymity

An overnight shooting

Police responded to reports of gunﬁre at the Hoffmans’ home shortly after 2 a.m., Champlin police said, and found the couple with multiple gunshot wounds.

After seeing who the victims were, police sent ofﬁcers to proactively check on Hortman’s home. There, they encountered what appeared to be a police vehicle and a man dressed as an ofﬁcer at the door, leaving the house.

“When officers confronted him, the individual immediately fired upon the officers who exchanged gunfire, and the suspect retreated back into the home” and escaped on foot, Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley said.

Multiple bullet holes could be seen in the front door of Hoffman’s home.

John and Yvette Hoffman each underwent surgery according to Walz.

“We are cautiously optimistic they will survive this assassination attempt,” the governor said at a morning news conference.

Trump said in a statement that the FBI would join in the investigation.

“Our Attorney General, Pam Bondi, and the FBI, are investigating the situation, and they will be prosecuting anyone involved to the fullest extent of the law. Such horriﬁc violence will not be tolerated in the United States of America.

God Bless the great people of Minnesota, a truly great place!”

Lawmakers targeted Hortman, 55, had been the top Democratic leader in the state House since 2017 She led Democrats in a three-week walkout at the beginning of this year’s session in a power struggle with Republicans. Under a power-sharing agreement, she turned the gavel over to Republican Rep. Lisa De-

muth and assumed the title speaker emerita.

Hortman used her position as speaker in 2023 to help champion expanded protections for abortion rights, including legislation to solidify Minnesota’s status as a refuge for patients from restrictive states who travel to the state to seek abortions — and to protect providers who serve them.

Walz called her a “formidable public servant, a ﬁxture and a giant in Minnesota.”

“She woke up every day determined to make this state a better place,” he said.

“She is irreplaceable.”

Hortman and her husband had two adult children.

The initial autopsy reports from the Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Ofﬁce gave their cause of death as “multiple gunshot wounds.”

The reports said Melissa Hortman died at the scene while her husband was pronounced dead at the hospital. Hoffman, 60, was first elected in 2012 and was chair of the Senate Human Services Committee, which oversees one of the biggest parts of the state budget. He and his wife have one daughter State Patrol Col. Christina Bogojevic asked people “out of an abundance of caution” not to attend “No Kings” protests. Bogojevic said authorities did not have any direct evidence that the protests would be targeted, but noted the “No Kings” ﬂyers in the car Organizers announced that all demonstrations in

the state were canceled, but many people still showed up for protests at the Capitol and elsewhere in the Twin Cities area.

The suspect Boelter was appointed to the workforce development board in 2016 and then reappointed in 2019 to a four-year term that expired in 2023, state records show Corporate records show Boelter’s wife ﬁled to create a company called Praetorian Guard Security Services LLC with the same Green Isle mailing address listed for the couple. On a website for the business, Boelter’s wife is listed as president and CEO, while he is listed as director of security patrols.

The homepage says it provides armed security for property and events and features a photo of an SUV painted in a two-tone black and silver pattern similar to a police vehicle with a light bar across the roof and “Praetorian” painted across the doors.

Another photo shows a man in black tactical gear with a military-style helmet and a ballistic vest.

An online resume says Boelter is a security contractor who has worked in the Middle East and Africa, in addition to past managerial roles at companies in Minnesota.

A former next-door neighbor in Inver Grove Heights, where Boelter used to live, said he hardly knew him but remembers his daughters because they kayaked and ice skated on the pond behind the homes.

“It’s really sad for the kids, very, very nice kids,” Michael Cassidy said. He added that the suspect’s wife once came over to pray with his wife and daughter

Massive search

Hundreds of police and sheriff deputies, some in tactical gear with assault-style weapons, were scattered throughout the town Some checkpoints were set up

An alert sent to cellphones in the morning asked people to shelter in place as police searched for an “armed and dangerous” suspect.

“Suspect is white male, brown hair, wearing black body armor over blue shirt and blue pants and may misrepresent himself as law enforcement. Do not approach. Call 911,” the initial alert said.

Police lifted the shelter order in the afternoon, saying they had reason to believe the suspect was no longer in the area.

“This is crazy, someone going after representatives,” said Brooklyn Park resident Douglas Thompson, 62. “This is wrong. I’m hoping they’ll catch them.”

Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth, a Republican from Cold Spring, called the

attack “evil” and said she was “heartbroken beyond words” by the killings.

Political violence

The shootings are the latest in a series of attacks against lawmakers across parties.

In April, a suspect set ﬁre to the home of Democratic Pennsylvania Gov Josh Shapiro, forcing him and his family to ﬂee during the Jewish holiday of Passover The suspect said he planned to beat Shapiro with a small sledgehammer if he found him, according to court documents.

In July 2024, Trump was grazed on the ear by one of a hail of bullets that killed a Trump supporter Two months later a man with a rifle was discovered near the president’s Florida golf course and arrested Other incidents include a 2022 hammer attack on the husband of then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in their San Francisco home and a 2020 plot by anti-government extremists to kidnap Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and start a civil war Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said he asked Capitol Police to “immediately increase security” for Minnesota Democratic Sens. Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith. He also asked Majority Leader John Thune, a Republican, to hold a brieﬁng on member security

“Condemning violence is important but it is not enough,” Schumer said on the social platform X. “We must also confront the toxic forces radicalizing individuals and we must do more to protect one another, our democracy, and the values that bind us as Americans.”

The2025ParadeofHomes invitesparticipantstotour 16 newlyconstructed houses in Greater NewOrleans

in NewOrleans treats guests to awalkthrough of 16 expertly craftedhomes that exhibitthe industries’latestinnovations and trends.Whether youare in themarketfor anew house or areseeking inspirationfor future renovations, theannualParadeofHomes is theperfect wayto experienceanarray of home designsand to speak with award-winningbuilderson-site Homesare open to thepubliconJune21-22 and 28-29, from 1to5PM, free of cost.The 2025 Parade of Homesispresented by JamesHardie, Orleans Furnitureand OnPath Credit Union, andishosted by theHomeBuildersAssociation of Greater New Orleans(HBAGNO).

In termsofcolortrends, soft whites reignsupreme this season.Accent colors arepopping up here andthere,and wooden cabinets areexperiencing aresurgence

“Weare seeing ashift away from gray,just as we didlastyear,”saidMire.

TheHBAGNOproudly supports theSt. Jude DreamHome® andincludesthe newconstructionin theParadeofHomes.Every year,ahomeisdesigned andbuilt featuringsomeofthe industry’s most exciting andup-and-coming amenities. Theproceeds from theannualrafflesupport St.Jude’sChildren’s Research Hospital,and this year’s home wasbuilt by HymanL.Bartolo Jr.Contractors, Inc. The2025 NewOrleans St.JudeDreamHomeis2,768 sq.ft. andhas 3bedrooms, 2.5 bathroomsand is located at 425LiveOak Street in Bucktown

TheannualParadeofHomes allows guests the opportunity to walk into aspace andexperiencea conceptﬁrst-hand.For individualslooking to build ahomeitmay be difficult to imagineblueprintsin atangibleway,and by scouting theparadehomes guests canexplore theirpreferences as they seeideas broughttolife.

“One of thebiggest beneﬁtsofattending theParade of Homesinpersonisthatyou caninteractwiththe builders,”saidGeraldMire, CAOofHyman L. Bartolo Jr.Contractors Inc. andBartolo Building Products Inc. andPresidentofHBAGNO. “Ask them questions. By talkingtoabuilder beforeyou start designinga home or remodeling,you gain abetterconcept of what youwillneedfor thelocation you’re building in.”

Some of thelatesttrendsand innovationson displayinthisyear’sParadeofHomes arewet-room stylebathroomsﬁlledwithnaturallight,largecabinet drawersfor greatereaseofaccesstopot andpans, andoutdoor living spaces that showcase creativity andup-to-dateoutdoor cookingappliances.

“Thisyear, oneofthe elements that is continuing to emerge is thebutlerpantry. Thebutlerpantries we areseeingtoday area room to themselves,as opposedtoa pass-through betweenthe kitchen and diningroom,”saidMire.

“Witha butler’spantryyou canhaveall your small appliances—air fryers,coffee pots,blenders, etc. sittingona counteralong with spacefor dryfood storage. It’s almost like having asecondkitchen, butitallowsthe kitchentoremainclean andfree of clutter,”continuedMire. “Familiesare seeing it loving it,and asking for it.”

This year,the industry is also seeing large, porcelaintiles (48”)being used in homes, reducing thenumberofgrout joints in bathrooms, backsplashes,ﬁreplaces andmore. Fibercement siding on theexteriors of homeshas becomemore common in recent years, quelling wood rot, and vinylwindows arenow establishedasastandard for maintainingawell-insulatedinteriorduringthe hot, humidNew Orleanssummers

“Thisyear, when we looked at thearea around theSt. Jude Dream Home,wesaw therewerea lotof traditionalhouses, andwethought ‘Let’s do something reallydifferent.’So, we went with an ultra-contemporary house,”Miresaid.

From thestreet, thereappears to be atraditional garage,but the spaceisdesigned with amulti-purpose,doublingasa relaxingsecond patio. This innovativepropertyfeatures aﬂoating staircase, amplewindows,a butler’spantry, alarge, blackstainless steelstovetopwithanovenbelow as well as awallovenand amicrowave speed oven Itsopenconcept living spacehas minimal molding to elevatethe home’s contemporary feel,and the windowsare sheetrockwrapped,amplifyingits cleanlook. To learnmoreabout this year’s St.JudeDream Home,visit:https://www.stjude.org/give/dreamhome/new-orleans.html. ThecompleteParadeofHomes itinerarycan be foundonthe HBAGNO website (https://www hbagno.org/hbagnopoh/) andonthe free mobile app, NewOrleans Parade of Homes. StartingJuly31st, select homeswillbeavailable for virtualtours in the app. Locations, directions,a rangeofprices, builder contacts,sponsors, andvendors canbefound on the app, andattendees canvotefor theirfavoritehome/ home features.Followthe Parade on social media @HBAGNO.

By Stevie Cavalier Licciardi| stevie.licciardi@theadvocate.com

This articleisbrought to youbythe Home Builders Association of GreaterNew Orleans.

If You’re Over ThirtyThis is the BEST TREATMENT youcan usefor your SCIATICA,BACKPAIN, and HERNIATEDDISCS

Finally, there’sa treatmenttoconquer lowback, neck, leg andarm pain without dangerousmedications or painfulsurgery

If yousufferfrom:

•LOW BACK PAIN

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•NECKPAIN

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Non-surgical Spinal Decompressionmay be theanswerfor you!

We areDr. ScottLeBlanc andDr. Dana LeBlanc, a husbandand wife team,thatown LeBlancSpine Center. We have helped thousandsofpatientsget outof pain with Spinal Decompressiontherapy treatments, andwelove what we do.Discissuesare common,and patients sufferingare usuallygiven limitedoptions of treatment. We runthese bignewspaper advertisementstolet people in thecommunity know thereis anotheroptionoftreatment forpain- withoutmedication,injections, or surgery!

NON-SURGICALSPINAL DECOMPRESSION is a breakthrough,non-invasive treatmentthathas been proventoreverse disc herniationsand relievenerve pain in theneck andlow back.Duringthe procedure, aspinaldiscisisolatedand aseriesofdistraction andrelaxationphasesoccur at averyspecificangle targetingthe source of pain.A vacuum canbecreated inside thediscand thenegativepressuredeliversnutrients, oxygen,and fluidfromsurrounding tissues, to assist with repair of thedamaged disc Thetreatment is not painfulatall,and most patients read or even take anap whileontreatment!

PROOFTHIS TREATMENTWORKS There’splentyof researchtobackupthe claims of Spinal Decompression Therapyand itseffectiveness. Here arejusta few of thepublished scientificstudies

•“Patients reported amean88.9% improvementin backpainand better function .Nopatient required anyinvasivetherapies (e.g.epiduralinjections, surgery).”-AmericanAcademy of Pain Management

•“We thus submit that decompressiontherapy should be considered first, before thepatient undergoesa surgical procedurewhich permanentlyaltersthe anatomyand function of theaffectedlumbarspine segment.”-Journal Of Neuroscience Research

•“86%ofthe 219patientswho completedthe therapy reported immediateresolutionofsymptoms.”-Orthopedic Technology Review

•“Vertebralaxial (spinal) decompressionwas successfulin71% of the778 cases” -Journal of NeurologicalResearch

•“Good to excellentreliefin86% of patients with Herniateddiscs”- TheAmericanJournal of Pain Management

•“Decompression Therapyreporteda76.5% with complete remissionand 19.6%withpartial remission of pain anddisability” -Rio Grande Hospital, Department of Neurosurgery

At LeBlancSpineCenter, we utilizeadvanced, FDA-clearedtechnologythatisproventoeffectively

Ihavesuffered with numbness in my legs for 5monthsbeforegoing to LeBlancSpine Center. Afterthe firstinitialconsultation, I startedSpinalDecompression treatments and within 3months, Ihad ahuge differencein mobility,reduced pain,and thenumbness was subsiding. Ihaveimprovedabout 80%from thetreatments. Isleep better,walkwithout pain,and duetocervicaldecompression,my migrainesare almost non-existent.Dr. Scott listenedtomysymptomsand began to treat therootofmyproblems. Thedoctors andstaff are compassionate andverycaring. It feelslikeafamilyand their patient’swellbeing really matterstothem. I 100% recommendLeBlancSpine Center! JoyLewis Hometown -Baton Rouge,LA

alleviatepain.

It’s importanttonotethatnot everypatient is a candidatefor Spinal Decompression, whichiswhy we prioritize athorough individual assessment for each person whowalks throughour doors. Our high successrateinpainreliefstems from our commitment to only taking on patients whom we confidently believewecan help

Forthe next 7days, we areofferingaspecial “Decompression Evaluation”offer,atnocostto you! What does this offer include? Everything we normally do in ournew patientevaluations:

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Youwillsit with thedoctorone on onetogoover your x-rays,and you’ll gettosee everything first hand

At LeBlancSpine Center,weare honestwith our patients andwegivepersonalized attentionand analysis to each case. We trulyenjoy meetingwith patients to answer theirquestions andtohelp find outifSpinalDecompression treatments couldbe theanswertotheir pain

Thereisnochargeatall andyou don’tneedtobuy anything.You have nothing to lose by taking us up on this specialoffer andyou will getanswers to

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I firstcametoLeBlancSpine Centerwith numbness in my arms andlegs. Iwas also experiencinglower back pain andneckpain. I hadbeensufferingwiththisfor over10years Ihad previouslytriedone epidural injection in my lowerbackand physical therapy, an I wasstillsuffering with thesesymptoms. Since beginning Spinal Decompressiontreatments, Ihavehad consistent improvement in my back condition,and Iamnow 70%improved! Iam liftingwithout pain,sleepingbetter, andInow have theability to walk withouttiring! Iwould highly recommendDr. LeBlancand LeBlanc SpineCenter!

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he might be a cousin. The pope’s grandparents were from New Orleans and had the last name Martinez, which is Alverez’s maiden name.

First, a friend speculated. Then, a niece checked her own family records and said she thought it was possible, too.

Honora conﬁrmed the relation, and that’s what convinced Alverez. Pope Leo is her second cousin once removed. Her great-grandfather and the pope’s grandfather were brothers.

“You know, he looks like my grandmother,” Alvarez said about the new pope as she sat in her New Orleans East home on a recent Sunday with Honora and her son Malcolm Moore, 70, grew up just a few miles away from Alverez, in Broadmoor

A lifelong New Orleanian who had always considered himself White, Moore knew he had a priest in his extended family — and had met some of his relatives on that side — but didn’t know the Rev Bob Prevost well. Moore is also the pope’s second cousin once removed. His great-grandmother and the pope’s grandmother were sisters.

Moore learned a little about his Black ancestry years ago after getting results from a DNA test. The connection to the pope, and to a whole line of extended family members, has him eager to learn more.

“We’re interested in meeting the branch (of the family) that we didn’t even know,” he said Crossing the color line

One extended family, separated for decades by just a few miles and the complicated history of race in New Orleans. More than 5,000 miles away in Rome, the election of Pope Leo XIV as the spiritual leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Roman Catholics has brought their connection to light.

Honora, who ﬁrst discovered the pope’s family history in New Orleans, said the splintering of families in this way is plenty familiar in Louisiana. Stories of “crossing the color line” were especially common in the early 1900s when the pope’s ancestors made the decision to pass for White, but those choices still reverberate today

“All of us from New Orleans, we know that we’ve experienced friends, family that, either temporarily or long term, they crossed the color lines,” said Honora, a historian and genealogist at The Historic New Orleans Collection. “Back when the buses and the streetcars were segregated, everyone had friends who would sort of sit in the front and you’d think, ‘He shouldn’t be sitting up there; we know who she is.’ But they did it.”

Under the state-sanctioned segregation of Jim Crow people who decided to pass for White — often known by the French phrase “passé blanc” were making a difﬁcult choice.

It could mean being forced to leave home and cut ties with family and friends. But for those who could pass successfully it also meant better treatment, more freedom, safety and greater access to housing and job opportunities.

People often kept the secret from their children, raising them as White, too

Family ties in New Orleans

In that way, the pope’s family history isn’t that unusual.

In 1900, Leo’s maternal grandparents Louise Baquié and Joseph

Martinez lived in the predominantly Black 7th Ward of New Orleans, according to U.S. Census records, the same part of the city where Alverez was raised. Martinez was born in Haiti and worked as a cigar maker Baquié’s roots ran even deeper: her mother was baptized in St Louis Cathedral.

The couple and their daughters were listed in the 1900 census as Black But by the 1920 census, the family had moved to Chicago and were living in the north as White.

When the couple moved north, two of Martinez’s three siblings did the same, joining him in Chicago and identifying as White. But one brother, Michel Martinez, stayed behind. His great-granddaughter is Alverez.

When Baquié left with her husband, her sister Victoria Baquié stayed in New Orleans. But she also began to pass for White. Her greatgrandson is Moore, who now lives in Destrehan.

Alverez only just learned of the branch of the family connected to the pope. Moore said his mother and grandmother had kept in touch with the pope’s mother and her sisters, who visited New Orleans several times. He spent time with them in Chicago once as a child.

Moore knew of “Father Bob,” his cousin who was a priest and spent years in South America before working at the Vatican. Years ago, his family contributed to the creation of the gold chalice the pope used during his ordination as a priest Still, never expecting an American pope, even when the announcement came and the name sounded familiar, he almost missed the connection.

“It really didn’t hit me until later, when we were looking at my family genealogy, that he was my cousin,” Moore said.

Now that the family histories have been revealed, Alverez hopes Pope Leo, who likely also never knew of her branch of the family, will eventually come to New Orleans so they can meet.

“What does the pope think about us being related? That’s my question,” she said. “What does he think of us because we’re Afro American?”

She plans to write a letter inviting Leo to her home if he ever visits the city

Black and White in New Orleans

Moore and Alverez grew up about 5 miles apart. Though one was raised Black and the other White in the 1950s and 1960s, they both said they had happy, devoutly Catholic

childhoods surrounded by loved ones. Both were educated at local Catholic schools and spent years serving in the church Moore served as an altar boy in his youth, and so did Alverez’s son.

Alverez grew up in the St. Bernard housing project, where she never lacked family

“My grandmother, she lived on one of the top floors of the building and she would always be looking down and checking on us from there,” she said.

Several family members also lived in the housing project, and the kids, who would all get roller skates for Christmas, had the freedom to play together outside, skating around their neighborhood. Most everyone she loved was in arm’s

reach.

“I lived my whole life here,” she said. “I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.”

Moore described the Broadmoor he and his four brothers grew up in as “a melting pot.”

Not far away, he would play with some of the Landrieu children, the ones who grew up to be former U.S Sen Mary Landrieu and former New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu. The family in the house next door to Moore had come from Honduras and a few doors down was a Jewish family that had come to America after surviving the Holocaust.

Moore’s father was an electrician but died in an accidental electrocution when Moore was just 3 years old. He said that as a child, he had

asked his mother and grandmother about their family heritage. They were always vague.

Decades ago, the family’s racial history was almost revealed when it was time for Moore’s brother to get married. He had fallen in love with their Jewish neighbor It was the 1960s and interracial marriage was still illegal in Louisiana.

Though Moore’s brother looked White and was raised as White, his birth certiﬁcate, which he had never seen, listed his race as Black. As the wedding approached, his mother had to tell him.

“There was a little controversy there that I was totally oblivious to,” Moore said.

Moore’s brother and his bride eloped in another state where interracial marriage was legal. Then, they returned to New Orleans and had a Jewish wedding ceremony Moore’s brother and sister-in-law kept the whole thing secret.

Around 2019, Moore and his wife decided to take DNA tests with their adopted children. Moore’s results came back showing he was 14% African with connections in Cameroon and with the Bantu Tribe. That was when his brother’s wife (his brother died in the 1990s) told them about how they were married Later when Moore checked his own birth certiﬁcate, he saw that his race had been blotted out and was no longer legible.

“My mother and my grandmother kept it a family secret and never told any of the children,” he said.

“In fact, I have African on both sides of my family I didn’t know anything about it until I did my DNA and I said, ‘I’ve got a different story now.’”

Catholic, Methodist, Baptist

Though both Alverez and Moore grew up Catholic, Alverez is now Baptist and Moore is now Methodist.

Both said they still hold their Catholic upbringing dear and have reverence for the church. Moore said he was attracted to the Methodist faith for its focus on an individual’s direct relationship with God. Alverez said after her mother’s death, soul searching for greater meaning in her life brought her to Franklin Avenue Baptist Church, where she has been a member for many years. Alverez still remembers attending a massive Mass on the Lakefront almost 40 years ago when Pope John Paul II visited New Orleans.

“It stormed and stormed and then when the pope arrived, the skies cleared and the sun came out,” said Alverez. “I will never forget that.” Now, with a pope with real ties to the city, she said she’s sure the turnout would be even greater if Leo visited.

The Rev Blaise Polk, Alverez’s cousin, who is also a cousin to the pope (through his mother, who was a Martinez), said that he feels the connection to the pope too, even though he’s a Baptist.

Working in ministry at a church in Texas since Hurricane Katrina, and with several other relatives who have taken similar paths across Christian denominations, he called ministry “a family business.”

“I am proud of him,” Polk said of Pope Leo. “The family pride is overﬂowing, and if there was anything I would like to say to him, it’s just congratulations and that God has put you in a powerful position Use it for good.”

Honora, the genealogist, called the revelation of the pope’s Black ancestry “important to the world,” adding that he hopes it will make Catholicism feel more inclusive for Black followers.

“Our pope is a brother,” Honora said during his conversation with Alverez, “and he’s got kinfolk right here that look like you and me.”

STAFF PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER

Historian Jari Honora discusses the family history of Pope Leo XIV with Ellen Dionne Alverez and her son, Harlon Patrick Martinez, in New Orleans on June 8. Alverez is a second cousin of Pope Leo.

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

Malcolm Moore, of Destrehan, holds a photo of his great-grandmother, Victoria Baquié. Baquié is the sister of Pope Leo XIV’s grandmother, Louise Baquié.

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

A family photo from Malcolm Moore shows Pope Leo XIV’s mother Mildred Agnes Prevost, second from left.

Israelistrikes on Gaza kill at least20people

BY WAFAA SHURAFA and SAMY MAGDY Associated Press

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip At least 20 Palestinians were killed in Israeli strikes on the Gaza Strip overnight and into Saturday, according to local health ofﬁcials. The 20-month warwith Hamas has raged on even as Israel has opened anew front with heavy strikes on Iran that sparked retaliatory drone and missileattacks

Another 11 Palestinians were killed overnight near food distribution points run by an Israeli- and U.S.supported humanitarian group in the latest of almost daily shootings near the sites sincethey opened last month. Palestinian witnesses say Israeliforces have fired on the crowds,while the military says it has only fired warning shots near people it describes as suspects whoapproached its forces

The sites are locatedin military zones that are off limits to independent media. Israel’smilitary said it ﬁred

warningshots overnightto distance agroup of people near troops operating in the Netzarimcorridor,and an aircraft struckapersonwho kept advancing. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, aprivatecontractor that operates the sites, said they were closed Saturday. But witnessessaid

thousands had gathered near the sites anyway,desperate for food as Israel’s blockade andmilitary campaign have driven theterritorytothe brink of famine. Al-AwdaHospitalsaidit received eight bodies and at least 125 wounded people fromashooting near aGHF site in central Gaza.

Mohamed AbuHussein, a residentofthe built-up Bureij refugeecamp nearby, saidIsraeliforces opened ﬁre toward the crowd about ahalf-mile from the food distribution point. He said he saw several people fall to theground as thousands ran away In the southern city of

Khan Younis, Nasser Hospitalsaiditreceived16dead, including ﬁve women, from multiple Israeli strikes late Friday and early Saturday It said another three men werekilled near twoGHF aid sites in the southernmost city of Rafah, nowa mostly uninhabitedmilitaryzone. Israel’smilitary said it was unaware of anygunﬁrethere during that time overnight.

An Israeli strike in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza,killed four people,Al-Aqsa Hospital said.

Meanwhile, Israel’smilitary said two projectiles came from Gaza andfell in open areas, with no injuries. Israel and the United States say thenew aidsystem is intended to replace a U.N.-run network that has distributed aid across Gaza through 20 months of war They accuse Hamas of siphoning off the aid and reselling it to fund its militant activities.

U.N. ofﬁcials deny Hamas has diverted significant amountsofaid and say the newsystem is unable to meet mounting needs. They

say the new system hasmilitarized aid by allowing Israel to decide whohas access and by forcing Palestinians to travel long distances or relocate again after waves of displacement. They say the U.N. has struggled to deliver aid even afterIsraeleasedits blockade last month because of militaryrestrictionsand rising lawlessness. Hamas, which is allied with Iran, sparked the war when its ﬁghters led arampage into southern Israel on Oct.7,2023, killing some 1,200 people,mostly civilians, and abducting 251. They still hold 53 hostages, less than half of them believed to be alive, after most of the rest werereleased in ceaseﬁre agreements or other deals.

Israel’sretaliatorycampaign has killed over 55,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’sHealth Ministry, which has saidwomen and children makeupmore than half of the dead but does notdistinguishbetween civilians and combatants in count.

Trumpclearspathfor Nippon SteelinvestmentinU.S.Steel

BY JOSH BOAK and MARC LEVY Associated Press

WASHINGTON President Donald Trump on Friday signed an executive order paving the way for aNippon Steel investment in U.S. Steel, so long as the Japanese company complies with a“national security agreement” submitted by the federal government.

Trump’sorder didn’tdetail the terms of the national security agreement.

But the iconic American steelmaker and Nippon Steel said in ajoint statement that the agreement stipulates that approximately $11 billion in new investments will be made by 2028 andincludes giving the U.S. government a“golden share” —essentially veto power to ensure thecountry’s national security interests are protected against cutbacksinsteel production.

“WethankPresident Trump and hisAdministration for their bold leadership andstrong supportfor our historic partnership,” the two companies said. “This partnershipwill bring amassive investment that will support our communities and families for generationstocome. We look forward to putting ourcommitments into action to make Americansteelmaking and manufacturing great again.”

The companies have completed aU.S. Department of Justice review andreceived all necessary regulatory approvals, the statement said.

“The partnership is expected to be ﬁnalized promptly,” the statement said.

U.S.Steel rose $2.66, or 5%, to $54.85 in after-hourstrading Friday.Nippon Steel’s original bid to buy the Pittsburgh-basedU.S.Steel in late 2023 had been valued at $55 per share.

The companies offered few details on how the golden share would work, what otherprovisions areinthe national security agreement and how speciﬁcally the $11 billion would be spent White House spokesman

KushDesai saidthe order “ensures U.S. Steel will remain in thegreat CommonwealthofPennsylvania, and be safeguarded as acritical element of America’snational and economic security.”

James Brower,aMorrison Foerster lawyer who represents clients in national security-related matters, said suchagreements withthe government typicallyare notdisclosed to thepublic, particularlybythe government.

Theycan becomepublic, but it’s almost always disclosedbya party in the transaction, such as acompany —like U.S. Steel —that is publicly held, Browersaid. The mechanics of howa

golden share would work will depend on the national security agreement, but in suchagreements it isn’tunusual to give the government approval rights over speciﬁc activities, Brower said.

U.S. Steelmade no filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Friday Nippon Steel originally offered nearly $15billion to purchase U.S. Steel in an acquisition that had been delayed on national security concerns starting during Joe Biden’spresidency As it sought to win over American officials, Nippon Steel gradually increased the amount of money it was pledging to invest into U.S.

Steel. American officials now value the transaction at $28 billion, including the purchase bid and anew electricarc furnace —amore modern steel mill thatmelts downscrap —that they say Nippon Steel will build in the U.S. after 2028. Nippon Steel had pledged to maintain U.S. Steel’sheadquarters in Pittsburgh, put U.S. Steel under aboard with amajority of American citizens and keep plants operating. It also said it would protect the interests of U.S. Steel in trade matters and it wouldn’t import steel slabs that would competewithU.S.Steel’s blast furnaces in Pennsylvania and Indiana.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JEHAD ALSHRAFI

TwoPalestinians ride asmall boat on Friday at the seafront nexttoa tent camp in the Gaza City port

LOUISIANA POLITICS

The biggest bills that passed, and failed, in the Legislature

BY JULIA GUILBEAU Staff writer

After 60 days, the Louisiana Legislature has wrapped up its latest session, having created new laws on auto insurance, education food safety and more, and having passed a new state budget for the 2025-2026 ﬁscal year

Already, 112 bills have been signed into law by Louisiana Gov Jeff Landry, and in the ﬁnal days of session, lawmakers sent dozens more to the top ofﬁcial’s desk

Here’s a closer look at the biggest topics from this session and the most high-proﬁle bills that passed and failed.

Auto insurance

Auto insurance was one of lawmakers’ biggest priorities heading into the 2025 session as rates have continued to soar in the state.

After fervent debate, a group of new car insurance laws has already been signed by Landry Many of those bills aim to rein in lawsuits against insurance companies, which the industry argues could tamp down rate increases.

However, one bill — House Bill 148 would give the insurance commissioner more ability to reject rate increases That has drawn ire from Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple, who says it gives arbitrary authority to him and his successors.

The bills signed by Landry include:

n House Bill 450, which requires someone who sues over injuries in an accident to show that the injuries occurred during the accident.

n House Bill 434, which reduces payouts to uninsured motorists injured while driving.

n House Bill 436, which prohibits undocumented immigrants injured in car accidents from collecting general damages, such as

n App store age verification: House Bill 570 would require app stores to age-verify users If a user is under 18, the app store must link their account to a parent account, which in turn would need to sign off on any app downloads.

n Speed cameras: Senate Bill 99 bans trafﬁc enforcement cameras in areas other than school zones and at red lights — except in Opelousas.

n Balloon releases: House Bill 581 bans releasing balloons. It would make intentionally releasing balloons outdoors illegal and punishable by up to a $500 ﬁne. Exceptions are made for balloons released for scientiﬁc, meteorological or radio purposes.

n Ivermectin: Senate Bill 19 expands access to ivermectin authorizing pharmacists in Louisiana to dispense ivermectin under a standing order without requiring a prescription from a patient’s physician.

n Inventory taxes: Voters statewide could decide in November 2026 to give parishes the right to opt out of the property tax on business inventory under two measures House Bill 365 and House Bill 366 approved by the Legislature.

2025 LEGISLATURE ROUNDUP

for emotional distress and pain and suffering.

n House Bill 549, which requires insurance companies to give trucking companies a 5% discount when they install dashboard cameras on their large trucks.

n House Bill 148, which gives the state insurance commissioner more authority to reject rate increases.

Budget

Legislators approved a budget for the new ﬁscal year, which starts in July, of about $51 billion That includes an extra $1.2 billion in one-time spending on roads, economic development and college campus improvements by using money withdrawn from the state’s Revenue Stabilization Trust Fund.

‘Make America Healthy Again’

Inspired by U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy’s “Make America Healthy” movement, lawmakers in the GOP-led Legislature made changes to how schools, food manufacturers and restaurants address nutrition and ingredients.

Under Senate Bill 14, Louisiana schools will not be allowed to serve certain artiﬁcial colors and additives in breakfasts and lunches, including Red 40, and restaurants and food businesses using seed oils will have to notify customers on menus or signage.

The bill further requires food manufacturers selling products in Louisiana to include a QR code on packages if their products contain certain artiﬁcial ingredients.

Physicians, physician assistants and advanced practice registered nurses in family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics and

OTHER BILLS THAT PASSED

n A new state park: Senate Bill 88 establishes Ouiski Bayou in Terrebonne Parish as Louisiana’s newest state park.

n New voting machines: House Bill 577 puts in place a new bidding process for voting machines, allowing the Secretary of State to move quicker to replace their decades-old voting machines

n Weather modification: Senate Bill 46 bans any form of weather modiﬁcation, saying no person shall “intentionally inject, release, apply, or disperse, by any means, a chemical, chemical compound, substance, or apparatus into the atmosphere within the borders of this state for the express purpose of affecting the temperature, weather, climate, or intensity of sunlight.”

n Campaign finance rules: House Bill 693 overhauls Louisiana’s rules on funding for political campaigns by adding recognition that campaign spending is protected free speech, setting up new rules for political action committees, providing new, more detailed parameters for what money can be spent on, raising monetary reporting thresholds and creating stricter rules for when campaign ﬁnance violations

obstetrics and gynecology must also complete a minimum of one hour of training on nutrition and metabolic health every two years under the new legislation.

Education

Dozens of bills related to schools and education passed this session, including raising teacher pay, requiring anti-hazing courses for higher education groups and creating a new TOPS award.

The biggest bills include:

n House Bill 466 requires school systems to provide a $2,250 salary increase for teachers and a $1,125 increase for school support staff. The state will pay for the raises by using education trust funds to pay down debt related to the teacher retirement system, saving school systems an estimated $2 billion in interest payments. Voters will have to approve eliminating the trust funds in a constitutional amendment.

n House Bill 372 adds computer science as a high school gradua-

can be investigated.

n IVF protections: Senate Bill 156 makes updates to the state’s in vitro fertilization laws and protects IVF providers — including physicians, clinic and others who provide IVF goods and services — from criminal prosecution for acts associated with care, unless those acts were made with criminal negligence or intent.

n Abortion lawsuits: House Bill 575 allows pregnant women to sue anyone who helps illegally provide them with drugs meant to induce an abortion.

n Social safety net programs: House Bill 617 would move some social safety net programs, like SNAP food stamps and Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, under the state workforce department. The goal is to give residents “one door” to access those services

n Concealed carry changes: House Bill 393 changes rules regarding guns at parades saying only active participants in parades are barred from having a concealed gun — not bystanders. Senate Bill 101 allows anyone legally allowed to carry a gun, including those without permits, to do so up to a school’s property line.

tion requirement.

n House Bill 77 creates a new TOPS “Excellence” award for students who score 31 or higher on the ACT Recipients will get a $12,000 annual scholarship if they attend a public Louisiana college or university or $8,500 if they attend certain private universities — including Dillard, Loyola, Tulane and Xavier — or an amount equal to the cost of tuition and fees, whichever is less.

n House Bill 279 requires fraternities, sororities, bands, sports teams and other higher-ed student organizations to provide members with an annual two-hour course on hazing prevention, up from the current one hour Organizations that don’t comply will be banned. The bill was inspired by the hazing death of Southern University student Caleb Wilson. Pharmacy benefit managers

House Bill 358, which would have barred companies from owning both pharmacies and

pharmacy beneﬁt managers — ﬁrms that negotiate lower drug prices from drugmakers — failed to pass on the last day of session.

Gov Jeff Landry, who supported the bill, said he would call legislators in for a special session to take up the issue again.

The Legislature did pass House Bill 264, which would set new, stricter rules on PBMs.

DOTD overhaul

Upset with the slow pace of road and bridge projects, legislators made several major changes to the Department of Transportation and Development. They are creating a separate entity to handle smaller state roadways, adding a new Ofﬁce of Transformation to oversee an overhaul of DOTD, and pushing the department to privatize more of its work, among other changes.

Unemployment benefits

Under House Bill 153, Louisiana residents collecting unemployment will need to do more each week to ﬁnd a job.

The bill requires ﬁve “work search actions” per week by those who collect unemployment, up from three. Work search actions include ﬁlling out a job application, interviewing for a job, attending job fairs, attending networking events or doing mock interviews.

Kratom ban

Kratom, an herbal substance derived from a southwest Asian tree, will soon be banned in Louisiana, pending Gov Jeff Landry’s signature.

Critics of the substance say it carries a high abuse potential and has opiate-like effects.

Staff writers Tyler Bridges, Meghan Friedmann, Alyse Pfeil, and Patrick Wall contributed to this story

OTHER BILLS THAT FAILED

n Fluoride ban: Senate Bill 2 would have banned public water systems from putting ﬂuoride in their water unless a majority of residents voted to opt in.

n Tax cuts: House Bills 667 and 578 sought to cut the state individual income and sales tax by 0.25% each, paired with House Bill 678 that would eliminate the Revenue Stabilization Fund. They passed the House overwhelmingly but Senators feared the cuts would blow a hole in the state budget.

n Spending limit: The House approved House Bill 283, which would impose a limit on how much the state annual spending budget could grow But the measure died in the Senate without getting a vote

n DEI: House Bill 685 would have prohibited state agencies from maintaining or initiating DEI programs, employing people to perform functions related to DEI or requiring any applicants or employees to provide a statement regarding DEI.

n Nonunanimous jury appeals: Senate Bill 218 would have allowed

prisoners convicted by split juries to apply to have their cases set back to pretrial status, letting local district attorneys choose from there whether to hold a new trial, cut a plea deal or dismiss a case.

n Vape tax: Though the bill was completely changed over the session, at one point, House Bill 517 would have taxed vape products and electronic cigarettes at 33% of their total price.

n Criminal STI infections: House Bill 76 would have made it a crime to intentionally give someone an incurable, sexually transmitted infection, like herpes. Instead, the bill’s author passed legislation to study STIs.

n School pregnancy information: House Bill 478 would have required information about pregnancy, adoption and neonatal care to be posted at health centers in public high schools and public colleges and universities.

n Private school extracurriculars: Senate Bill 198 would have authorized nonpublic school students to participate in public school activities.

STAFF PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

Senators work in chambers during last week’s session of the Legislature.

EDUCATION

Single charterschoolnow athrivingnetwork

several New Orleans charter schools.

BY MARIE FAZIO

Staff writer

More than adecade ago, aKenner philanthropist approached Patty Glaser with arequest: Could she create acharter school that would attract young families to the area?

Glaser,who had helpedlaunch some of the area’smost successful charter schools, accepted the challenge. In 2013, she opened Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy,which enrolled 420 students that year

Today,Discovery charter schoolsserve over 2,000 students in grades pre-K through 12 across three campuses in Jefferson Parish, one in Baton Rouge and ahybrid virtual school, where students divide their time betweenonline and in-person learning and social experiences. (Hundreds more studentsare on the network’swaitlist.)

In Kenner,the newest campus includes alab with patient simulators where students can practicemedical situations, atest kitchen for the culinary program andhallways lined with sculptures and paintings,including a 24-foot-long painting of the solar system.

Now,after growing Discovery into asprawling network of highperforming charter schools, Glaser is stepping down.

It’sanend to alengthycareer in education. Glaser spent 18 years as aspeech language pathologist helping studentswith communication disorders, and she also was abehind-the-scenes force who helped establish

OneofGlaser’sproudest accomplishmentsisDiscovery’s policy of admitting all students, or serving “all swamp owls,” she puts it. Thepolicy means that students like the2024 valedictorian, who now attends Yale University on afull ride, learned alongside studentswithdisabilities.

“It’smyfavoritepartofDiscovery,” she said.

Glaser recently spoke about Discovery’sexpansion from humble beginnings in Kenner to amulti-citycharter school network.

This interview has been condensedand edited for clarity

What’s behind Discovery’simpressive growth?

One of thecomplaints Iheard post-Katrina from someofthe (state) Board of Elementary and Secondary Education members was that charter schools would comeinand say,“There’sa need for anew school.” Then they open akindergarten, and nine years late,r we have acharter school. How does that serve our needs?

How can it be donefaster?

Ilooked for models around the country and foundthat you can start asmall middle school and lower school andgrow them both at thesame time. That’swhat we did.

Ireally believeone of the driving forces of acharter school should be to respond to community needs. Thereasonwestarted Discovery was acommunity need: Kenner waslosingpopulation. They werelooking for things to attract newyoung families.

Later on, we doubled thesize of ourmiddle school because the city of Kenner had no successful middleschool seatsinthe district That’show we got to be so large. It was responding to community

Q&A WITH PATTy GLASER CEO

OF DISCOVERy SCHOOLS

physician or anurse whowas working in the hospital and really see what that world waslike.

We entered acharter corporate partnership(with Ochsner) and that’show Dr.John Ochsner Discovery was started. They built a simulation lab in the school and 50% of the seats go to Ochsner employees, and 50% of the seats go to thebigger community

What do yousee as the benefits and drawbacks of the charter school model?

The biggest beneﬁt of acharter school is thechoice in what you deliver in termsofteaching and learning to the students under your roof. Every team of administrators in acharter school gets to makethat decision as opposed to thedistrict saying you have one speech language pathologist that’s going to come your way, you have two English teachers and three math teachers, and that’sit.

It gives choice to parents, which is mostimportant. And it gives choice to administrators in how to best carry outtheir mission and vision fortheir kids to be academically successful.

most successful?

Intentional teaching and learning are important, and that means well-planned and well-delivered lessons that are adjusted to accommodate the students that are in your classroom.

Discovery is really good at growing kids from where they enter to where they’re going to be. It’s important to provide both AP classes or pathways that encourage industry as wellasinterventionists that help with basic reading and mathskills forthose kids that need moreinreading and math.

We also run aSummer Bridge program forall of our young kids whoare not reading or writing or doing mathatgrade level. We pay attention to data and where kids are —whether we have achild who’sgifted, or we have astudent with disabilities, we’re going to ﬁgure out how to best approach each student and how to work with them

Howhaveyou navigatedthe Trump administration’seffortstoeliminate the U.S. Department of Educationand ban diversity programs?

Diversity really doesn’ttake funding; it takes commitment. We’re fully committed to all kinds of people.

needs. Andwhen theparents said, “You better do ahigh school,” it was responding to community needs. Tell me about the partnership with Ochsner Health.

(TheKenner philanthropist)

Henry Shane’svision was always to home-grow medical professionals. My board memberswill tell you that we started “‘dating”’ Ochsner from theﬁrst year.They donated microscopes for the science labs and gave us access to this platform called Nepris so high school studentscould basically have avirtual call with a

Do you see anytrade-offs?

The trade-off, unfortunately, ends up being in the choice to parents, because we have a2,000-kid wait-list.

The hallwaysare fullofincredible works of art.What wasthe thought behind that?

Every timeHenry Shane doesn’thave room forapainting or sculpture, he calls me up and asks if he can put it here. It teaches the students to act responsibly towardpeople and objects. It really teaches kids to respect their surroundings and gives them beautiful surroundings to workin.

What academicstrategies have been

WE’RE ASKING EXPERTS ACROSS THESTATEHOW TO TACKLE THEBIGGEST CHALLENGES FACINGLOUISIANA SCHOOLS.

As farasthe Department of Education, it wasunnerving at ﬁrst when Ithought they might stop or discontinue Title Ifunding (for low-incomestudents). We have over 12% of students with disabilities and about 68% are economically disadvantaged and all of the support forthat comes from federal funding. It’s OK if it comes downthrough the state it’snot OK if it goes away,orit’s hard or impossible to access. Is there anylesson you’dliketopass on to fellow educators? There’snobetter career than teaching achild how to speak or read.

FILEPHOTO

Patty Glaser,CEO of Discovery Schools, is stepping down after leading the organization since 2013.

What’s left for the Supreme Court to decide?

La. congressional districts, trans care bans still to be ruled on

BY MARK SHERMAN and LINDSAY WHITEHURST Associated Press

WASHINGTON The Supreme Court is in the homestretch of a term that has lately been dominated by the Trump administration’s emergency appeals of lower court orders seeking to slow President Donald Trump’s efforts to remake the federal government. But the justices also have 21 cases to resolve that were argued between December and mid-May including a push by Republican-led states to ban gender-afﬁrming care for transgender minors. One of the argued cases was an emergency appeal, the administration’s bid to be allowed to enforce Trump’s executive order denying birthright citizenship to U.S.born children of parents who are in the country illegally The court typically aims to ﬁnish its work by the end of June.

Here are some of the biggest remaining cases: Treatment for trans youth

The oldest unresolved case, and arguably the term’s biggest, stems from a challenge to Tennessee’s law from transgender minors and their parents who argue that it is unconstitutional sex discrimination aimed at a vulnerable population

At arguments in December, the court’s conservative majority seemed inclined to

uphold the law, voicing skepticism of claims that it violates the 14th amendment’s equal protection clause. The post-Civil War provision requires the government to treat similarly situated people the same.

The court is weighing the case amid a range of other federal and state efforts to regulate the lives of transgender people, including which sports competitions they can join and which bathrooms they can use In April, Trump’s administration sued Maine for not complying with the government’s push to ban transgender athletes in girls sports Trump also has sought to block federal spending on gender-affirming care for those under 19 and a conservative majority of justices allowed him to move forward with plans to oust transgender people from the U.S. military

Birthright citizenship order

The court rarely hears arguments over emergency appeals, but it took up the administration’s plea to narrow orders that have prevented the citizenship changes from taking effect anywhere in the U.S.

The issue before the justices is whether to limit the authority of judges to issue nationwide injunctions, which have plagued both Republican and Democratic administrations in the past 10 years. These nationwide court orders have emerged as an important check on Trump’s efforts and a source of mounting frustration to the Republican president and his allies. At arguments last month, the court seemed intent on

keeping a block on the citizenship restrictions while still looking for a way to scale back nationwide court orders. It was not clear what such a decision might look like, but a majority of the court expressed concerns about what would happen if the administration were allowed, even temporarily to deny citizenship to children born to parents who are in the country illegally Democratic-led states, immigrants and rights groups who sued over Trump’s executive order argued that it would upset the settled understanding of birthright citizenship that has existed for more than 125 years.

LGBTQ storybooks

Parents in the Montgomery County school system, in suburban Washington, want to be able to pull their children out of lessons that use the storybooks, which the county added to the cur-

riculum to better reﬂect the district’s diversity.

The school system at one point allowed parents to remove their children from those lessons but then reversed course because it found the opt-out policy to be disruptive. Sex education is the only area of instruction with an opt-out provision in the county’s schools.

The school district introduced the storybooks in 2022, with such titles as “Prince and Knight” and “Uncle Bobby’s Wedding.”

The case is one of several religious rights cases at the court this term. The justices have repeatedly endorsed claims of religious discrimination in recent years The decision also comes amid increases in recent years in books being banned from public school and public libraries.

La. congressional districts

Lower courts have struck

down two Louisiana congressional maps since 2022 and the justices are weighing whether to send state lawmakers back to the mapdrawing board for a third time.

The case involves the interplay between race and politics in drawing political boundaries in front of a conservative-led court that has been skeptical of considerations of race in public life.

At arguments in March, several of the court’s conservative justices suggested they could vote to throw out the map and make it harder if not impossible, to bring redistricting lawsuits under the Voting Rights Act.

Before the court now is a map that created a second Black majority congressional district among Louisiana’s six seats in the House of Representatives. The district elected a Black Democrat in 2024.

A three-judge court found

that the state relied too heavily on race in drawing the district, rejecting Louisiana’s arguments that politics predominated, specifically the preservation of the seats of inﬂuential members of Congress, including Speaker Mike Johnson. The Supreme Court ordered the challenged map to be used last year while the case went on.

Lawmakers only drew that map after civil rights advocates won a court ruling that a map with one Black majority district likely violated the landmark voting rights law

Online pornography

Texas is among more than a dozen states with age veriﬁcation laws. The states argue the laws are necessary as smartphones have made access to online porn, including hardcore obscene material, almost instantaneous. The question for the court is whether the measure infringes on the constitutional rights of adults as well. The Free Speech Coalition, an adult-entertainment industry trade group, agrees that children shouldn’t be see-

Feds give immigrant Medicaid data to deportation officials

BY KIMBERLY KINDY and AMANDA SEITZ Associated Press

WASHINGTON President Donald Trump’s administration this week provided deportation officials with personal data including the immigration status — on millions of Medicaid enrollees, a move that could make it easier to locate people as part of his sweeping immigration crackdown.

An internal memo and emails obtained by The Associated Press show that Medicaid officials unsuccessfully sought to block the data transfer, citing legal and ethical concerns. Nevertheless, two top advisers to Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr ordered the dataset handed over to the Department of Homeland Security, the emails show Ofﬁcials at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services were given just 54 minutes on Tuesday to comply with the directive.

The dataset includes the information of people living in California, Illinois, Washington state and Washington, D.C., all of which allow non-U. S. citizens to enroll in Medicaid programs that pay for their expenses using only state taxpayer dollars. CMS transferred the information just as the Trump administration was ramping up its enforcement efforts in Southern California. Besides helping authorities locate migrants, experts said, the government could also use the information to scuttle the hopes of migrants seeking green cards, permanent residency or citizenship if they had ever obtained Medicaid beneﬁts funded by the federal government.

California Gov Gavin Newsom ’s ofﬁce said in a statement that it was concerned

about how deportation ofﬁcials might utilize the data, especially as federal authorities conduct immigration raids with the assistance of National Guard troops and Marines in Los Angeles.

“We deeply value the privacy of all Californians,” the statement said. “This potential data transfer brought to our attention by the AP is extremely concerning, and if true, potentially unlawful, particularly given numerous headlines highlighting potential improper federal use of personal information and federal actions to target the personal information of Americans.”

Some California lawmakers on Friday also expressed alarm. U.S. Rep. Laura Friedman, a Democrat, wrote on X that “we should never use a person’s need to go to the doctor against them. This will only lead to more chaos and pain in our communities.”

U.S. Health and Human Services spokesperson Andrew Nixon said the data sharing was legal. He declined to answer questions about why the data was shared with DHS and how it would be used.

“With respect to the recent data sharing between CMS and DHS, HHS acted entirely within its legal authority — and in full compliance with all applicable laws — to ensure that Medicaid beneﬁts are reserved for individuals who are lawfully entitled to receive them,” Nixon said.

An official with DHS, Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin, said in a statement that Trump “promised to protect Medicaid for eligible beneficiaries. To keep that promise after Joe Biden flooded our country with tens of millions of illegal aliens CMS and DHS are exploring an initiative to ensure that illegal aliens are not receiv-

ing Medicaid benefits that are meant for law-abiding Americans.”

The initiative appears to be part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to provide DHS with more data on migrants In May, for example, a federal judge refused to block the Internal Revenue Service from sharing immigrants’ tax data with Immigration and Customs Enforcement to help agents locate and detain people living without legal status in the U.S.

CMS announced late last month that it was reviewing some state’s Medicaid enrollees to ensure federal funds have not been used to pay for coverage for people with “unsatisfactory immigration status.” In a letter sent to state Medicaid officials, CMS said that the effort was part of Trump’s Feb. 19 executive order titled “Ending Taxpayer Subsidization of Open Borders.”

As part of the review, California, Washington and Illinois shared details about non-U. S. citizens who have enrolled in their state’s Medicaid program, according to a June 6 memo signed by Medicaid Deputy Director Sara Vitolo that was obtained by the AP The memo was written by several CMS ofﬁcials under Vitolo’s supervision, according to sources familiar with the process.

The data includes addresses, names, social security numbers and claims data for enrollees in those states, according to the memo and two people familiar with what the states sent to CMS and what was shared with DHS Both individuals spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to share details about the data exchange.

CMS officials attempted to ﬁght the data sharing request from Homeland Se-

curity, saying that to do so would violate federal laws, including the Social Security Act and the Privacy Act of 1974, according to Vitolo’s memo.

Fifth week of Combs’ trial ends with jury issue

BY MICHAEL R. SISAK and LARRY NEUMEISTER Associated Press

NEW YORK

The ﬁfth week of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex trafficking trial featured four days of testimony from a former Combs’ girlfriend who testified under the pseudonym Jane and a surprise appearance at the courthouse on the ﬁfth day by Ye the rapper formerly known as Kanye West.

Ye said he came to show his support for his good friend but couldn’t get into the courtroom and watched for a few minutes on an overﬂow courtroom monitor Combs, the founder of Bad Boy Records, has pleaded not guilty in the trial, which resumes Monday Here are key moments from the past week:

Jane testifies

Jane testiﬁed for six days about her over three-year relationship with Combs, saying her plans to meet him at a New York hotel last September were interrupted by his arrest.

Her testimony consumed four of the week’s ﬁve trial days as she told about her conflicted feelings toward Combs.

She told a prosecutor: “I just pray for his continued healing, and I pray for peace for him.” And when a defense lawyer asked if she still loved him, she responded: “I do.”

When she completed her testimony and with the jury still in the room, she went to the prosecutor and gave her a warm embrace before proceeding to the defense attorney and hugging her too

She said she resents she felt forced to have sex with strangers in multiday sex marathons as the man she

longed most to cuddle with ﬁlmed and fed her drugs to give her energy to satisfy his sexual fantasies.

Her testimony echoed what the jury heard in the trial’s ﬁrst week when Casandra “Cassie” Ventura testiﬁed for four days that she engaged in hundreds of multiday “freak-offs” while they dated from 2007 to 2018, having sex with male sex workers in front of Combs, who masturbated, filmed the encounters, and verbalized what he wanted to see sexually

Jane said she and Combs split up from Halloween 2023 until February 2024

During the break, she said, she ﬂew on another famous rapper’s private jet to Las Vegas, joining the celebrity to celebrate his romantic partner’s birthday for a night that included dinner, a stripper’s club visit and a hotel room party In the hotel room Jane testiﬁed, the rapper who was

close friends with Combs made a pass at her amid ﬂirtatious banter, saying he had always wanted to have sex with her She said she danced in the hotel room, where a male sex worker was having sex with a woman, and at some point Jane ﬂashed her breasts.

Jane agreed with a lawyer’s assessment that the famous rapper was “an individual at the top of the music industry as well an icon in the music industry.”

Jane also revealed that the unidentiﬁed famous rapper and his partner were looking for someone they could add to their sexual experiences who was “in the lifestyle.”

“I believe they were asking me because maybe they just picked up the energy from me or I just maybe assumed that maybe they had already got an inclination that me and Sean had been doing kind of similar things,” she said, noting that she referred a male sex

worker she knew Ye surprises courthouse

A day after Jane ﬁnished testifying, Ye formerly known as Kanye West, made a surprise appearance at the courthouse and quickly learned what a tough ticket it is to get into the courtroom where his good friend Combs is on trial.

Ye, wearing all white, was ushered by courthouse security to an overﬂow courtroom to watch the trial on a video monitor along with others who were unable to get into the courtroom. He lasted only a few minutes there before he made his courthouse exit, saying nothing during his trip except that he was there to support Combs.

Combs’ favorite TV show

It turns out that Combs, the subject of several true-crime TV documentaries, is a bit of a true-crime fan himself.

Jane revealed this week

that his favorite show is “Dateline,” the magazinestyle NBC stalwart that is heavy on murders and mysteries.

She told jurors that in their alone time together, she and Combs would watch “Dateline” for hours “till we fell asleep.”

Other activities when it was just the two of them included hugging, cuddling and bathing Combs, and giving him foot rubs, Jane testiﬁed.

Jane’s last meeting

Jane testiﬁed that she last saw Combs in August, when they were in their “same routine having sex and everything” when Combs suggested that she invite over the very ﬁrst male sex worker she had sex with in front of Combs.

She said that afterward, she and Combs continued texting each other and were planning to meet in New York at a hotel in September

“Did you end up going to New York to see him?” she was asked. “No,” she answered.

“Why not?” she was asked before she responded: “Because he got arrested.”

Protecting Jane’s identity

The courtroom rules surrounding Jane’s testimony were the strictest yet in a bid to protect her identity from becoming common knowledge.

But the rules imposed by the judge became too much for defense attorney Marc Agniﬁlo, who protested that Jane was blocked from telling more about the hotel party in January 2024 with the famous, though unidentiﬁed, rapper Agnifilo said the defense had consented to the “pseudonymity” of Jane.

“What we didn’t consent to, and we don’t, most respectfully, is that these events which play important parts in the background of some of the most critical events in the trial, should be in any way not fully public,” he said. He said names should have been released.

“Part of the reason that trials are fully public is so if other people realize they know something about an event that’s discussed in a public courtroom, they could come forward and they could share whatever their recollection is about it,” he said.

Jury issue

The fate of one anonymous juror was in limbo after the judge said Friday he will reconsider his decision to oust the juror even though he suspects he might have an “agenda.”

Judge Arun Subramanian said he had decided that conflicting answers from the juror about where he primarily lived — in New Jersey or New York — raised questions about his credibility and whether he was answering questions in a bid to stay on the jury If the juror does primarily live with a girlfriend in New Jersey, he would be outside the court district and disqualiﬁed.

Prosecutors said the juror’s dismissal is required because of his conﬂicting answers. Defense lawyers argued that prosecutors were only trying to disqualify a Black juror and that his dismissal could spoil an otherwise diverse panel of jurors. The judge bristled at the suggestion that race was a factor, saying there was no support for claims that prosecutors did not use race-neutral arguments to exclude jurors during jury selection and now

As Trump goes to G7, other world leaders aim to show strength

BY JOSH BOAK

Associated Press

WASHINGTON President

Donald Trump has long bet that he can scare allies into submission — a gamble that is increasingly being tested ahead of the Group of Seven summit beginning Monday in Canada.

He’s threatened stiff tariffs in the belief that other nations would crumple. He’s mused about taking over Canada and Greenland. He’s suggested he will not honor NATO’s obligations to defend partners under attack. And he’s used Oval Office meetings to try to intimidate the leaders of Ukraine and South Africa But many world leaders see fewer reasons to be cowed by Trump, even as they recognize the risks if he followed through on his threats. They believe he will ultimately back down — since many of his plans could inﬂict harm on the U.S. — or that he can simply be charmed and ﬂattered into cooperating.

“Many leaders still seem intimidated by Trump, but increasingly they are catching on to his pattern of bul-

lying,” said Jeremy Shapiro, research director at the European Council on Foreign Relations. “In places as diverse as Canada, Iran, China and the EU, we are seeing increasing signs that leaders now recognize that Trump is afraid of anything resembling a fair ﬁght. And so they are increasingly willing to stand up to him.”

In the 22 instances in which Trump has publicly threatened military action since his ﬁrst term, the U.S only used force twice, according to a May analysis by Shapiro.

Ahead of the G7 summit, there are already signs of subtle pushback against Trump from fellow leaders in the group. French President Emanuel Macron planned to visit Greenland over the weekend in a show of European solidarity. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has said the U.S. is no longer the “predominant” force in the world after Trump’s tariffs created ﬁssures in a decadeslong partnership between the U.S. and its northern neighbor

“We stood shoulder to shoulder with the Americans throughout the Cold

War and in the decades that followed, as the United States played a predominant role on the world stage,” Carney said this past week in French. “Today, that predominance is a thing of the past.”

The new prime minister added that with the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, the U.S. became the global hegemon, a position of authority undermined by Trump’s transactional nature that puts little emphasis on defending democratic values or the rule of law

“Now the United States is beginning to monetize its hegemony: charging for access to its markets and reducing its relative contributions to our collective security,” Carney said.

Israel’s attack on Iran has added a new wrinkle to the global picture as the summit leaders gather to tackle some of the world’s thorniest problems

A senior Canadian ofﬁcial said it was decided early on that the G7 won’t be issuing a joint communiqué as it has at past summits — an indication of how hard it can be to get Trump on the same page with other world leaders.

By The Associated Press

growth. The Japanese leader speciﬁcally called Trump ahead of the summit to conﬁrm their plans to talk on the sidelines, which is a greater focus for Japan than the summit itself.

“I called him as I also wanted to congratulate his birthday, though one day earlier,” Ishiba said.

Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, DN.H., the ranking member of the Foreign Relations Committee, said the summit was an opportunity for Trump to “mend” relationships with other countries so China would be unable to exploit differences among the G7.

The White House said individual leader statements will be issued on the issues being discussed.

Speaking last month at a conference in Singapore Macron called France a “friend and an ally of the United States” but pushed back against Trump’s desire to dominate what other countries do. Macron said efforts to force other nations to choose between the U.S. and China would lead to the breakdown of the global

order put in place after World War II.

“We want to cooperate, but we do not want to be instructed on a daily basis what is allowed, what is not allowed, and how our life will change because of the decision of a single person,” Macron said.

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba pushed back against Trump’s agenda of levying higher tariffs on imported goods, arguing it would hurt economic

She said other foreign leaders are “not intimidated” by Trump’s actions, which could be driving them away from tighter commitments with the U.S.

“The conversations that I’ve had with those leaders suggest that they think that the partnership with the United States has been really important, but they also understand that there are other opportunities,” Shaheen said. The White House did not respond to emailed questions for this story

By The Associated Press

HELSINKI Finnish authorities have accused senior officers of a Russia-linked vessel that damaged undersea cables last year between Finland and Estonia of criminal offenses related to the wreckage.

They say the oil tanker, the Eagle S, dragged its anchor to damage the Estlink-2 power cable and communication links between Finland and Estonia on Dec. 25. The Kremlin previously denied involvement in damaging the infrastructure, which provides power and communication for thousands of Europeans.

The Eagle S is ﬂagged in the Cook Islands, but has been described by Finnish customs ofﬁcials and the European Union’s executive com-

mission as part of Russia’s shadow ﬂeet of fuel tankers.

Those are aging vessels with obscure ownership, acquired to evade Western sanctions amid the war in Ukraine and operating without Westernregulated insurance.

Russia’s use of the vessels has raised environmental concerns about accidents given their age and uncertain insurance coverage. For the West, the incidents are a test of resolve in the face of what are believed to be widespread sabotage attacks in Europe allegedly linked to Moscow following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

The Eagle S was carrying 35,000 tons of oil and investigators allege it left a drag trail with its anchor for almost 62 miles on the sea bed before it

was stopped and escorted to the vicinity of a Finnish port. The senior ofﬁcers, whose names were not made public, were the master, the chief mate and the second mate, Finnish police said in a statement Friday The trio was responsible for the safe passage, navigation and operation

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By LARRy NEUMEISTER

ye the rapper formerly known as Kanye West, leaves federal court Friday during the trial of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs in New york.

CANADIAN PRESS FILE PHOTO By JEFF MCINTOSH

A Canada flag, left, and an Alberta flag flap in the breeze on June 2 with Wedge Mountain in the background at the site of the G7 Leaders meeting in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada.

OyEKANMI

THE GULF COAST

Stormchasermakes BaySt. Louishis home base

Custom-builthome

canwithstand a Category

5storm

BY JUSTIN MITCHELL Staff writer

On the ﬁrst Saturdayofthe 2025 hurricane season, weatherexperts and storm chasers from theU.S. met up on theMississippi Gulf Coast for a“hurricane party” like no other National Weather Servicemeteorologists, U.S. Air Force Hurricane Hunters, Jim Cantore, Margaret Orr and Jefferson Parishcouncil member Scott Walker mixedand mingled at anew,New Orleanslike cottage in the heart of BaySt. Louis.

Outside, dozens snacked on barbecue,swapped stories about severe weather coverage and sipped on White Claws or the specialty cocktail, hurricanes.

The party is hosted by Josh Morgerman, aworld-famous storm chaser known as iCyclone onsocial media.

It was achance for himtoshow off his new home that he built from the ground up on alot afew blocks off the beach.

But it was also arare moment for both of his worlds tocollide. The fellow weather obsessed who know Morgerman as thrill-seeking storm chaser got to meet the Hancock County and New Orleans locals who know Josh as the relaxed “weather dude” who bikes around town and spends evenings on his front porch listening to frogsribbit andinsects chirp.

And for Morgerman, thelaissezfaire lifestyle of the Gulf Coast is a big part of what made himdecide to leave Los Angeles behind and make ahome in the Bay

“When I’m not chasingstorms, I’mall about routine and steadiness,” he said this week.“Iwant to compliment the other side of my life, which is very dangerous and very unpredictable.”

Morgerman ﬁrst discovered Bay St. Louis in 2020 as he wastrying

to ﬁgure out how to safelychase stormsinthe height of the COVID pandemic.

“I had always been based in Los Angeles, and with air travel shut downfor several months, Iremem-

berthinking, ‘If Iwanttochase hurricanes I’m goingtoneed to live in hurricane country.’”

He began renting acottage in Bay St. Louisand made that his home base for afew years during the sea-

son. Whena big storm approached,

he’d pack up and head outfrom Mississippi to begin the chase.

Morgermanthought themoveto theMississippi Coast was a“crazy idea” at ﬁrst, as he had only ever lived in major metros including L.A., New York City and Boston.

But to his surprise,Morgerman said the adjustment was easy

“Being in the Bay,Ifelt, like, this stress disappear.Itbecame my happy place.I felt veryzen about it.”

After afew summers, Morgerman said he realized his feelings for theGulf Coast weren’ttemporary

He decidedtostayput, buying alot andbeginningthe process of buildinghis dream “hurricane house” up to standards so high he said he’d said he’d ride out aCategory5storm.

It lookslike an average shotgunstyle New Orleans cottage, like those commonly seen around Bay St. Louis. Butthe homeisreinforced from the inside out. “Folksask me alot about what

materials Iused to build my house,” Morgerman said. “The roof is 24-gauge metal,and Ihaveheavy composite shutters with polycarbonate to protect the windows (from debris).

“I also usedJames Hardie cementsiding, which is like acoat of armor around my house.”

Morgerman moved into his home in early 2024 and has no regrets.

He said he loves the beach, the humidity,his front porch and being abletoridehis bicycle pretty much anywhere.

“That’skind of magical to me,” he said.

Morgerman often treks afew blocks forcoffeeatPJ’sorMockingbirdCafe, andlikes having a nicedinneratThe Thorny Oyster inside the Pearl Hotel. He will also bike over to Pass Christian to enjoy the pork chop special at Bachhus on the Beach on Monday nights.

Morgerman isn’tthe only weather guru who has fallen in love with the Mississippi Coast. At the party on Saturday,Cantore —afamous WeatherChannel meteorologist who rode out Hurricane Katrina in Gulfport —saidBay St. Louis is one of his favorite coastal towns.

“The MS coast will be forever changed from Katrina’srecord surge, but places like Bay St. Louis have turned into absolute gems,” Cantore said on Instagram after the event.

Morgermansaidhis mother,a lifelong New York City resident, wasmiffedwhenhetoldher that he was moving to Mississippi.

“A lot of people in New York and L.A., they don’tknow about this area, they don’tknow of its charms,” he said. “She’svisited several times since then, and she gets it now.”

Now that his friends have left and Morgerman has had time to recover from his big shebang, he’s looking ahead to what forecasters are predicting to be an above-average hurricane season.

“I believe we’re in foranother busyyear with the activity centered in the Gulf,” Moregerman said. “I think we allgot to keep watch.”

NOLA.COM

| Sunday, June 15, 2025 1Bn

N.O. visitors near pre-pandemic record

Tourist count reached 19M last year

BY STEPHANIE RIEGEL Staff writer

New Orleans played host to more than 19 million visitors in 2024, a near-record number that tourism officials say signals a recovery from four sluggish years following the coronavirus pandemic.

According to a study conducted by hospitality ﬁrm MMGY Global, the nearly 19.1 million visitors that came New Orleans last year

La. mom arrested at ICE hearing

Wife of Marine was in process of getting green card

BY JAMES FINN Staff writer

Since immigration agents detained his wife in New Orleans last month, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran has ferried the couple’s 9-week-old daughter to a north Louisiana detention facility so she can nurse and visit her mother while the family waits to learn if she will be deported Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents arrested Paola Clouatre, of Baton Rouge, after a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services check-in last month that she attended with her husband in New Orleans, according to the family’s attorney

The case highlights how the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown is increasingly being driven by arrests at customs appointments and court hearings — tactics ofﬁcials historically shied away from over concerns they could deter migrants from participating in the court process Trump, though, has embraced those tactics as he pursues a campaign promise to deport millions of people.

The president’s immigration agenda, which has the support of Louisiana’s conservative state leaders, has spurred protests in New Orleans in recent weeks, including a thousands-strong demonstration Saturday in the city’s downtown Clouatre, 25, entered the United States from Mexico with her mother when she was 14, said Carey Holliday an attorney and former immigration judge who represents the

ä See ICE, page 2B

represented a 6.4% increase over the year before and only the second time on record that the city has attracted more than 19 million visitors.

The other time was in 2019, when the city’s visitor count topped 19.7 million.

“This is a real high point for us,” said Walt Leger III, president and CEO of New Orleans & Co., which commissioned the recent study “When you think about where we

were ﬁve years ago, it certainly signals an improvement and success, so we are happy.”

The study results are signiﬁcant in a city where the tourism and hospitality sector is a major driver of the local economy Visitors to the city last year spent more than $10.4 billion — more than twice as much as two decades ago not counting billions more in occupancy and sales taxes. Additionally, more than 80,000 people in the New Orleans area work for hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions, according to

New Orleans & Co.

But while the industry is trumpeting the recent study results, it is also bracing for a slow summer season with potentially more headwinds in the fall and beyond.

The Trump administration’s tariffs, concerns about inﬂation, and shifting global alliances are taking a noticeable bite out of the travel industry nationally and locally, experts say Foreign travelers in particular have cut back plans for corporate, group and individual travel, and New Orleans is already feeling the

effects, Leger said.

“International travel has been impacted somewhat, though not signiﬁcantly, especially from our Canadian friends,” he said. “We are hopeful in the long term there won’t be any damage, but in the immediacy, there is.”

Banner year

The MMGY study, compiled from online surveys of visitors and several other metrics, found that the city’s visitor count has

LOUD AND PROUD

Nichelle ‘DJ Honey’ Johnson and Sacoya Hicks pose at the Black Pride Nola festival at Armstrong Park

Front Street faces

Roadway might go on a ‘road diet’

BY BOB WARREN Staff writer

Pat Canulette remembers a slower Slidell, back when he was a boy there and it still felt like a small town.

“You knew everybody, and they all knew you,” Canulette, now 77, recalled recently “It really was a small town.” And at the heart of that small town was Front Street, as U.S. 11 was called, running parallel to the railroad tracks and forming one of the borders of Olde Towne, Slidell’s historic hub.

“It was just two lanes, but it was the main drag through Slidell,” said Canulette, who later would be St. Tammany Parish’s sheriff for 16 years.

“There were gorgeous trees running along the side.”

In the 1970s, Canulette and others say, Front Street was widened to four lanes, the oaks becoming a casualty of the expansion.

“People are still mad about

that,” said Bonnie Vanney, a longtime Slidell resident and historian. “That ticked a lot of people off, cutting down those oaks.”

One result of that four-lane expansion, besides the loss of the trees, was that, well, Front Street took on the look of a highway — lots of asphalt with trafﬁc whizzing through the area. Gone was any smalltown feel.

Now, the Regional Planning Commission has commissioned a study of Front Street, speciﬁcally the stretch between La. 433 and Fremaux Road, where it skirts Olde Towne.

The goal of the study?

“How do we make Front Street feel like part of Olde Towne,” said Johnny Bordelon, of J.V Burkes & Associates, a Slidell engineering and consulting ﬁrm preparing the study

Bordelon said the study is a follow-up of sorts to an Olde Towne master plan study from 2022.

Bordelon was among the team showing off an alternative Front Street design dur-

ing a community meeting hosted by the Regional Planning Commission last week at the Slidell Municipal Auditorium. That proposal reduced the number of lanes from four to three, and added a median and turn lanes as well as shared-use paths on each side of the thoroughfare.

Reducing the number of lanes without seriously impacting trafﬁc ﬂow was one of the aims, or as Bordelon told the audience at the auditorium: “Can we, in fact, do a road diet?”

Traffic and speed studies, he told the audience at the auditorium, showed that “yes, we can.”

Bordelon said the highway carries around 700 vehicles per hour in each direction during some peak travel periods.

Also, he noted, a redesigned Front Street could still be a part of Slidell’s traditional Carnival parade route.

“I love it,” Slidell City Council member Jeff Burgoyne said of efforts to rethink the

ä See STREET, page 2B

‘Sister Mary Pat McCooter,’ of the Big Easy Sisters, a group of members from the LGBTQ+ community, strolls down Bourbon Street during the annual Pride Weekend parade in New Orleans on Saturday

ä See VISITORS, page 2B

STAFF PHOTO By JOHN MCCUSKER Jefferson Parish and the Jefferson Community Foundation hosted the parish’s Bicentennial Ball at Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie on Saturday evening

names,

cake table.

STAFF PHOTOS By SOPHIA GERMER

NUDE ORLEANS

PHOTO By JOHN McCUSKER

The 17th annual local iteration of the World Naked Bike Ride bared all Saturday in N.O. on Saturday

East St. John grad fatally shot after fistfight

BY MICHELLE HUNTER Staff writer

A Reserve teenager who graduated just weeks ago from East St. John High School was shot and killed after a ﬁstﬁght in Reserve on Thursday night, according to authorities.

The St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Ofﬁce identiﬁed the victim as Tylik Jackson, 17. “A bright light in our Wildcat community, Tylik was known for his radiant smile, kind spirit and the joy he brought to those around him,” East St. John High

Principal DeShanna Bause wrote in a message posted on the school’s Facebook page Friday Sheriff’s Office deputies were dispatched to the 400 block of Northwest Third Street about 8 p.m. after receiving reports of gunfire,

STREET

Continued from page 1B

Front Street lane configuration. “People fly by at 50 mph now This would change how people drive on Front Street.”

Not that anything is carved in stone. The maps that Bordelon and the others showed off are pretty conceptual, they said.

“This is really a ﬁrst step,” said Tom Haysley, the Regional Planning Commission project manager on what’s formally called the “U.S. 11

Continued from page 1B

family Holliday said Clouatre’s mother had applied for asylum upon her arrival with her daughter from Mexico. But she failed to arrive for a 2018 trial on the asylum claim, prompting a judge to issue a deportation order for both Clouatre and her mother Clouatre and her husband, Adrian Clouatre, met near the end of the ﬁve-year period when he was stationed with the Marine Corps in California. They had been navigating the process to secure a green card for Paola, Adrian Clouatre said in an interview

They learned that Paola had an active deportation order just a few days before she was scheduled to appear for a customs appointment in New Orleans on May 27, part of her ongoing application for a green card. Paola and her mother stopped speaking years ago, Adrian Clouatre said, leaving her with no way of knowing about the order The couple was open with customs agents about his wife’s immigration status during the May 27 meeting, an “adjustment of status” interview in which an agent asks questions to determine Paola’s green card eligibility, Adrian Clouatre said. When the appointment ended, the couple was told to wait in the lobby for a set of paperwork for her next appointment in the green card process

Twenty minutes later three ICE agents arrived and took

authorities said. They found Tylik lying on the ground suffering from multiple gunshot wounds He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Crime cameras in the area recorded a fight, between Tylik and another unidentified male, in the middle of the street just before the shooting, the Sheriff’s Office said. Authorities have not identified a suspect in the case, but St. John Sheriff Mike Tregre said Friday that his detectives are working to make an arrest.

In a social media post related to the shooting, Tregre said, “Teenagers these days making permanent life decisions with weapons to settle disagreements Other than prayers not sure what else can be done in government or as a community.”

Bause’s post about Tylik noted that the teen’s walk

Corridor Study.”

Haysley said the importance of public meetings like the one last week is that it gives planners an idea of what residents think Front Street should look like.

“I was pleased with the feedback,” he said “There were some differing opinions. But from the big picture, it seems there is support for doing something.

“I didn’t hear anybody saying ‘Don’t do anything.’”

As he looked over the designs during the community meeting, Patrick Hein, a business owner and president of the Slidell Merchants Associ-

his wife into custody, Adrian Clouatre said.

Two days passed before he heard from her “I was crying constantly, having mental breakdowns,” Adrian Clouatre said. “I’m embarrassed to say that, as a man but it’s the truth.”

When Paola ﬁnally called, she said she had been held in a local jail in Hancock County, Mississippi, before being transferred to the Richwood Correctional Center, an ICE detention facility in Monroe.

Why a detained migrant would be held in Hancock County is unclear The Hancock County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce, which runs the jail, does not appear to have an active or pending agreement with ICE under the federal agency’s 287(g) local partnership program, which Trump has vastly expanded since taking ofﬁce, according to federal records. Email and phone messages left with the jail were not immediately returned.

The family is now awaiting a judge’s ruling on a request to halt Paola Clouatre’s deportation, as well as a parole request submitted on her behalf by a supervisor at Richwood Correctional, where she is still being held, her husband said.

Conditions at that facility “aren’t bad,” Adrian Clouatre said. He’s been making the four-hour drive twice each week so Paola can nurse the couple’s infant daughter and visit with their 1-year-old son Paola is housed in an openfloor room with about 100 other people, he said Two TVs on the wall blare horror movies and telenove-

across the graduation stage was “a moment that reﬂected his determination, his love for his family and his unwavering commitment to making them proud.”

Bause said Tylik left an unforgettable mark on is fellow students as well as the school’s faculty and staff.

“His presence will be deeply missed, but his memory will forever be cherished,”

Bause wrote.

St. John Schools Superintendent Dr Cleo Perry Jr also released a statement Friday lamenting the loss of a teen who had been full of potential, spirit and promise.

“In moments like this, we are reminded of how closely connected we are as a school family We will continue to surround Tylik’s loved ones and our students with support, compassion, and care in the days ahead,” Perry said. Starting next week, coun-

ation, said he generally liked what he was looking at.

“Slowing down the trafﬁc. Will that give us something to gain? I think it will,” Hein said of reducing the number of trafﬁc lanes.

“Is Front Street a hindrance now? I don’t think so. But reducing the number of lanes could help.”

But Hein isn’t “nuts” about the shared-use path. “We need that space for parking,” he said.

Hein has two big concerns.

“We only get one shot to get it right,” he said. “I just want to make sure whatever they do they get it right.”

las. When her husband visits, she is allowed to nurse their 9-week-old daughter in a small phone booth-style room that is “fairly private,” he said.

“It’s just really difﬁcult to get information out of ICE,” he said, adding that the agency has been “stonewalling.”

Holliday said he has not been granted access to the woman’s court records. An ICE spokesperson did not respond to a request for comment on the case.

In recent months, Trump has pressured federal ofﬁcials to speed up deportations, leading ICE officials and Department of Homeland Security prosecutors to begin coordinating raids outside of courtrooms. That directive followed an earlier executive order compelling federal agencies, like the customs ofﬁce the Clouatres visited, to coordinate with ICE.

Clouatre is not the first person since Trump’s term began to be detained in New Orleans at a customs appointment. ICE agents in April arrested Pedro Alejandro Lujan-Martinez, a Honduran man who went with his U.S. citizen wife to a citizenship appointment scheduled under a program advertised for undocumented partners of U.S. citizens.

Lujan-Martinez was charged in federal court with a felony for illegally reentering the country, another prong of Trump’s push to penalize illegal immigration.

Trump also lifted guardrails that previously barred immigration agents from making arrests inside schools, municipal courts

VISITORS

Continued from page 1B

been gradually recovering since the pandemic — from 15.7 million in 2021 to 17.5 million in 2022, 17.9 million in 2023 and 19.08 million in 2024.

Those numbers roughly mirror the three years prior to the pandemic, when the city was seeing signiﬁcant year-over-year growth in its hospitality sector In 2017, the city attracted 17.7 million visitors. In 2018, 18.5 million; and, in 2019, 19.75 million.

In the post-Katrina decade, visitor counts slowly grew from less than 4 million in 2006 to nearly 10 million in 2015. The ﬁrst time the city broke the 10-million mark was in 2016.

investors’ faith in the city’s visitor economy Last week, New York-based Certeras Management, a real estate investment ﬁrm, paid $47 million for the Hilton New Orleans Hotel, located in a century-old building in the Central Business District.

“This is a good time to buy a hotel in New Orleans,” said Len Wormser, senior vice president for Hospitality Real Estate Counselors, a hotel property brokerage. “There are reasonable values, a limited new supply of hotel rooms and a stacked convention calendar for next year.”

Headwinds

selors will be available on campus at East St John High School, 1 Wildcat Drive, LaPlace, school officials said. Anyone in need of someone to talk to or additional support is encouraged to reach out.

Those with information on the shooting death of Tylik Jackson is asked to call the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Ofﬁce TIPS line at (985) 359-TIPS (8477), contact Lt. Carolina Pineda of the Criminal Investigations Division at (504) 494-3840 or submit information online at stjohnsheriff.org/crimearrests/crime-tips/give-us-ageneral-crime-tip.

The public can also call Crimestoppers at (504) 8221111 or toll-free at (877) 9037867. Callers do not have to give their names or testify and can earn a $2,500 reward for information that leads to an indictment.

Also, he wondered, “How long will this take? Will I be retired long before it ever happens?”

Haysley acknowledged any change, if it comes, will come slowly

There are still any number of steps that must be taken, he said. An idea has to be settled on. There are various permissions that would be required (it’s a federal highway, after all). And then there’s always the question of money

Haysley said the final report on the U.S. Corridor Study, likely to be wrapped up soon, would include some cost estimates.

and churches. ICE agents in May detained three migrants at a municipal court in Jefferson Parish.

Last week, advocates in downtown New Orleans protested the arrest of a Central American man who they said was detained in late May following a hearing at New Orleans’ immigration court.

“Immigration court has become a damned if you do, damned if you don’t situation,” said Brittnie Grasmick, a New Orleans-based activist.

The Cloutres’ involvement with the U.S. immigration system began after they were married last February in California, Adrian Clouatre said. He and his wife felt that if they hoped to build a life together in the United States, she would have to apply for a green card, and they began that process before moving back to Louisiana in the following months.

“She knew she had to do it,” he said. “She was very fearful about all this, but also very hopeful.”

Adrian Clouatre did not consider himself political before his wife’s detention — nor does he now He still feels politics are “too divisive,” that they present a barrier to “unity” among all Americans.

The ICE agents who detained his wife, he said, treated them with kindness and seemed almost apologetic as they separated the couple.

“I recognize that the men and women of ICE have a job to do,” he said. “It’s the system itself that won’t let them exercise discretion. It’s like a power vacuum sucking

Last year was a particularly banner year, ofﬁcials have said, because of a series of all-star attractions. In the spring, a Rolling Stones appearance added an extra day to the Jazz Fest calendar In the fall, Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour brought some 200,000 fans to the city for three back-to-back performances.

The city also had a robust festival season and busier than usual Essence Fest in July

As a result, visitor spending was up last year to $10.4 billion, nearly approaching 2019’s record $10.5 billion spend, though inﬂation was also slightly higher last year — nearly 3% — which could partially account for the increased dollar ﬁgure.

“Obviously we are happy people spent more money but costs are higher,” Leger said. “So, I think any spending analysis has to take into account the overall economic environment.”

Doubling down Visitor numbers and spending are just some of the ways of measuring the health of the city’s tourist economy Hotel occupancy rates and revenues, convention bookings and customer satisfaction are others. So is the city’s ability to balance the needs of its tourism industry with the needs of local businesses and residents.

Several local hotel, restaurant and tour operators say the MMGY study afﬁrms what they noticed within their own businesses last year Activity and spending were up. More visitors were on the street. Even the normally slow summer was livelier than usual.

Hotelier Zach Kupperman said occupancy rates at Hotel St. Vincent in the Garden District were up 7% in 2024, while revenues also were higher

Emily Valentino, whose family owns six hotels in the French Quarter and downtown as well as Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours, said last year “felt like we had turned a corner.”

Jayson Seidman’s bar and restaurant on Jackson Square, Fives Bar, did so well last year that he is expanding into a vacant space next door The new dining room, which he hopes will be completed by the spring, will enable him to serve more than twice as many customers.

“I guess you could say we’re doubling down on New Orleans,” Seidman said, whose Sandstone Hospitality owns and operates several hotels and restaurants.

Hospitality experts point to other trends that signal

The recent MMGY study was released Friday, two weeks into the ofﬁcial summer season, which is always slow Some business owners are feeing the heat more than others.

After a strong 2024, Valentino said the first six months of 2025 have been disappointing, with no relief in sight for the short term. The Super Bowl, Mardi Gras and French Quarter Fest, which brought visitors to hotels, didn’t necessarily help businesses like her bus tour company

“Events, festivals or concerts are a distraction for local businesses,” Valentino said. “Leisure travelers come to explore the city We hope to see more of them in the future.” Seidman, on the other hand, said bookings at his hotels, including the Columns Hotel and The Henrietta, have been strong for the ﬁrst half of 2025, though “we’re getting ready to fall off into this deep dark hole of summer.”

New Orleans & Co., as well as local merchants, have been more strategic in recent years about creating seasonal events in the summer to help touristrelated businesses through the slow times.

“We are hyper focused on trying to drive business in the summer,” Leger said. “And we’re always trying to do more.”

One concern, he said, is the effect that the Trump administration’s policies on trade and immigration are having on international travel, both locally and nationwide Some international travelers can’t get travel visas. Others no longer want to come to the U.S., according to Leger Activity from Canadian travelers in particular has been affected, he said. The country, because of its shared history with Louisiana, traditionally makes up the largest group of foreign visitors to the city “We are speaking with our customers, and they are expressing their love of our city and state,” Leger said. “But out of a commitment to their own nation, they don’t want to travel here right now.”

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

STAFF

NewOrleans Area Deaths

Bray,Irene

Brown, Ronald

Butler, Willie

Carll,Angela Cloud, Loyce Colman, Melissa

Colomb Sr., David Davis, Vicki GaspardSr.,Robert Grieshaber,Carlene Jackson, Charles LeCompte,Barbara Madona,Joseph McNabb Garnett, Donna

Parulan, Loreta

Poplin,Wayne

Ransone,Margaret

Scallon, Priscilla

Smith,Tommy

Szegfu,Diana

Trestman,Evan

Viguerie, Edward

Webster, Molly

WeekleyJr.,Donald

EJefferson

Garden of Memories

Viguerie, Edward

Leitz-Eagan

Grieshaber,Carlene

WeekleyJr.,Donald

Tharp Funeral Home

Szegfu,Diana

NewOrleans

Boyd Family

Butler, Willie Cloud, Loyce Greenwood

LeCompte,Barbara Lake Lawn Metairie

Carll,Angela

SlidellHigh School,Class of 1969,Irene dedicated over 40 years to the University of New Orleans. Shefoundjoy in spending time with herfamily, especially her belovedgrandchildren,aswellasreading and enjoying the outdoors. She was preceded in death by herparents, Theodore and MaeRoach, one brother, and four sisters. She is survived by her lovinghusband of 47 years, Randy Bray; herchildren, TheodoreBray(Laresha Bray), JeffreyBray, and Mandy Bray(JerryBrandt); and her cherishedgrandchildren,BryantBray, NadiaSchwingle-Bray, Gage Brandt, and Kinsey Brandt. She also leavesbehindtwo sisters and two brothers along with several nieces and nephews. Irene's warmth, kindness, and unwaveringlove for herfamilyand community willbedeeplymissed At this time,nofuneral arrangementsorservices have been made.

Ronald Andrew Brownof Marrero,Louisiana passed awayonSaturday, June 7, 2025, at theage of 81.He was born in Houma, Louisiana to thelate WilliamA.Brown, Jr.and Elsie OlivierBrown. He was married to thelateJulie LaizerBrown. Devotedfa‐therofArleneMadonia (Jason),Michael Brown (Stacey), Sharon Brown, Susan Brown(Brandon Enloe), andBrian Brown (Samantha). Grandfather ofSam Brown, Emily Brown, Jeremy Brown, Jacob Silvestri, Dustin Vides,and Alesio Parodi Brother of thelateSandra Jenkins (Charles), Billie JeanChaisson(Gary), and Timothy Brown(Gwynne). Ronaldisalsosurvivedby nieces, nephews, otherrel‐ativesand many friends who arelefttocherish his memory. AMemorialSer‐vicewillbeheldat11:00 a.m.onTuesday,June 17 2025, in thechapelofWest‐side/Leitz-EaganFuneral Home, 5101 Westbank Ex‐presswayinMarrero Louisiana.A visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. and continue until theservice time. Expressionsofsym‐pathy maybesharedwith the Brownfamilyatwww WestsideLeitzEagan.com.

GaspardSr.,Robert Madona,Joseph Ransone,Margaret Butler,Willie Bee

Trestman,Evan River Parish

Millet-Guidry

Scallon, Priscilla

St Bernard

St Bernard Parulan, Loreta

St Tammany

EJ Fielding

Colomb Sr., David Smith,Tommy West Bank

Mothe Poplin,Wayne

West Leitz-Eagan

Brown, Ronald

Obituaries

Bray, Irene R.

Irene Bray, 74, alifelong resident of Slidell, Louisiana, passed away on May 28, 2025. She was adevotedmember of First Christian Church, where she played avital rolein the children's ministry and was an active memberof the women's group.

Aproud graduate of

ers/FuneralDirectors

Carll, Angela Mequet

Johnson, Robert (Pendy), Colleen, Mark (Nancy), & David (Ann). Amemorial will be held on July 19th, 2025 at 4:30 pm. Location:Faith Memorial Chapel, 11 Faith Chapel Rd Cedar Mountain,NC. In lieu of flowers adonation in Gwen's name may be made to Bread of Life,Brevard, or Junior Appalachian Musicians Transylvanian or acharity of yourchoice.

Colomb Sr., David

WillieBee Butler,born August4,1947, in Colfax, Louisiana to thelateMose and PearlButler, passed awayonJune 4, 2025, at age 77.After servinginthe U.S.Army, Willie movedto New Orleans, where he met andmarried Amanda and raised threechildren. Heworkedover30years as a dedicatedroofer with Carriere-Stum Inc. In 2010, hereturnedhometoCol‐fax,where he livedand servedthe community until hispassing.Known for hisgenerosityand ser‐vant’sheart,Willietouched manylives.Heissurvived byhis wife,Amanda; four children: Antoinette Woods, Tracee,Keith,and DonaldButler; nine grand‐children; 10 great-grand‐children; siblings:Shirley Pierce, Creola (William) Simms,RobertButler, and Charles (Betty)Butler; ﬁve godchildren;and many rel‐ativesand friends. He was precededindeath by his parents,sisters;Ceola Barnes, Willie MaeVernon, brothers; Mose andLouis Butler. Family andfriends are invitedtoattend the Celebration of Life Service onTuesday,June17, 2025, for 10:00a.m.atNew Home FamilyWorship Center, 1616 Robert C. Blakes,Sr. Dr. Visitation will beginat 8:00a.m.until 10:00a.m Bishops R.C. &Samuel Blakes, host pastors; Pas‐tor KendallFrancois, HopewellBC(Colfax,LA), ofﬁciating. Privateburial, Southeast LouisianaVeter‐ans Cemetery.Guestbook Online: www.anewtraditi onbegins.com (504)2820600. Linear BrooksBoyd

AngelaMequet Carll, a lifelong resident of New Orleans, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025. Angelawas thebeloved wife of the late Russell DeanCarll, withwhom she shared 49 joyful years of marriage. In recent years, she shared her life with her devotedpartner, Eddie Bankston. She was the cherished mother of Marshall Michael Carll, Christine AngelaCarll (KarlieHull), and Claudia AgnesCarllNewsham (Jeffrey), and theproud "Mamere" of Bennett Jeffrey, Eden Mequet NolanRussell, and Stuart WilliamNewsham. She was thelovingsister of Michael Mequet(Michele), Mary Claudia Hollier (Greg), and thelate BarbaraMequet thedevoted daughter of thelateHelen Groves Mequet and Edmund Michael Mequet.Angelaalso leaves behind alarge extendedfamily of cousins, nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends. Angelawas agraduateof Holy Name of Jesus School Mercy Academy, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (with adegree in English, minoring in French), and received her master's degree in English fromthe University of New Orleans. She had along and impactful career in journalismand education, working for The TimesPicayune for31years (1976 -2007), first writing acolumn focusing on the neighborhoodsofNew Orleans and laterthe Real Estate Marketing Editor, the Jewish Community Center Nursery School for10 years, and The New Orleans Morning Advocate. She also workedasa RhodesScholartour guide sharing her love for New Orleans with countless visitors, until her final days Angelawas deeply dedicated to her community. She served as Past President of the BroadmoorImprovement Associationand was Vice President of theNew Orleans Tour Guide Associationand an usher at St. Louis Cathedral,her home parish, at thetime of her passing. She was active in theLeague of Women Voters and the Friends of theNew Orleans Public Library. Her love for thearts and lifelong learning shone brightly. In 2013, she publishedthe book Where Writers Wrote in NewOrleans. Angelaheld season ticketstothe SaengerTheatre, Tulane SummerLyric Theatre, the NewOrleans Opera, and theNew Orleans Symphony. She taught yoga through the Sharing Program and took- and taught -tap dancing at the People Program, famously saying, "I tookbeginning tapdancing over and over because Iwanted to be the best in theclass."Angela alsonurtured decadeslong friendshipsthrough theAces and Spaces BridgeClub (55 years), the Mental Pause BookClub (25 years), theEntre Nous Book Club,the New Orleans SupperClub, and The 60's BookClub,formed with friends from her Holy Name class of 1960. Alongsideher late husband, she attended Clown Collegefor over adecade in La Crosse, Wisconsinand brought laughter to others by performing as theclowns Angel and ProfessorPastinsenior homes, atestament to her joyful,givingnature.She and her latehusband ran The LittleYellowHouse Bed and Breakfast for 15 years, meeting hundreds of newfriendsfrom around theworld. Familyalways receivedthe "family discount" -free -sotheir extended family would stop in NewOrleans as much as they could. AMass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, June 28 at St.Louis Cathedral in JacksonSquare. Visitation willbegin at 10:00 a.m.,followedbyMass at 11:00 a.m. In her honor, guests are invited to wearredher favoritecolor. If you wouldliketodonate to a charityinher name, you may considerThe New Orleans PublicLibrary or theartscharity of your choice.Receptionfollowi h i h h

LoyceArmsteadCloud passedawayonSunday, June 8, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. after 90 yearsoflife. Beloved wife of 70 yearsto Willie Cloud, Jr.Loving motherofLoyce Agyeman, Paulette CloudCelestine Cynthia CloudJackson, Terry andCharlotte Cloud; Stephen andMonicaCloud; Keith andBridget Cloud; Kenneth Cloud; andthe lateGlenn Tyrone Cloud. Daughterofthe late Amelia andWilsonBazile. Sisterofthe late Joyce Phillips, grandmotherof David,Bianca, Brandy,Je‐remy, Cherri,Kanesia,Noni, Jarvis, Denero,Terry,Jr. Kianta, Shayna,Sydney, Shelby, Syreeta, Stephen Jr.,Stephon,Kristin,Kelsey, Keith Jr Kenneth, Jr Josiah, andthe late Cory Hamilton. Also survived by a host of great-grandchil‐dren, nieces,nephews, other relatives, and friends.Relatives,friends, and neighborsare allin‐vited to attend theHome‐going CelebrationatThe BoydFamilyFuneralHome, 5001 Chef MenteurHwy New Orleans, LA on Mon‐day,June 16, 2025, for9:00 a.m.Visitationwillbegin at 8:00am. Pastor Robert Brown, ofﬁciating. Inter‐mentwillfollowatSouth‐eastVeteransCemetery, Slidell, LA.Guestbook On‐line: www.anewtraditionbe gins.com(504) 282-0600 Donavin D. Boyd andLinear BrooksBoydOwners/Fu‐neral Directors.

On January 21, 1973, whether or not theworld was prepared,Melissa Anne Colman(laterknown as Gwendolyn) appeared. Aposter child of non-conformity with thespirit of an eagle and thevoice of an angel, she embraced life to it's fullest. Agypsy at heart, in her travels she sought friendship, beauty music and faith, discovering all. Gwen'sacts of kindness, selflessness and love mixed with her razor sharp wit and unbridled silliness are known to many. Going without,she gave of herself freely showing compassionfor those in need. Aweekly highlight was Thursdays preparing and serving meals at The Bread of Life in Brevard, NC.Gwendolyn marched to adifferent drummer; fromKalamazoo to Colorado,Montana, LouisianathenNorth Carolina on amusical and spiritual journey- she touched so many lives. She witnessedthe fall of the BerlinWall, bringing back apiece,studied vocal performance at theUniversity of Iowa, sang as Annie &in othermusicals, explored therichmusical heritage of NewOrleans, &joined kindred spiritsinSean Johnson& The Wild Lotus Band.The band's album "Unity" debuted #1 on the iTunesWorldMusic charts, &#3onthe Billboard charts. Their latest album "Mystery" was named one of thebestalbums in LouisianabyOff Beat Magazine.All thewhile Gwen deeply loved& was treasured by family & friends, some of whom watchedonwith amixture of apprehension, awe, concern, &admiration forher life.She was taken so early fromusall &countless heartsare broken. In her honorweask that allwho knew Gwen sing asong, watch thesun rise &set, helpsomeone in need, blow some bubbles, make someone roar with laughter, face afearorattempt afeat. Do this knowing Gwen enters her nextspiritual journey.. Gwen was preceded in death by her belovedfather Robert &issurvived by her mother, Penny Colman-Crandal (Dave), siblings Gretchen (Bruce)

It is with profound sad‐nessthatweannouncethe passing of DavidColomb, Sr. who departed this life onJune 9, 2025 surrounded byloved ones.David wasa beloved husband, father, grandfather,brother,and friendwhose presence brought warmth,wisdom and strength to allwho knewhim.BorninNew Or‐leans on October12, 1952 David liveda life marked byhardwork, integrityand anunwavering devotion to his family. He wasthe cor‐nerstoneofhis household, alwaysleading with quiet strengthand offering un‐conditional love andsup‐port. AresidentofCoving‐ton,David wasa family man who will be lovingly rememberedbyhis de‐voted wife,PaulineMelan‐con Colomb;his twosons, David (Jenny)and Scott; his five grandchildren whomheadored, Naomi, Korynn, Owen,Vivienne, and John; hisloving mother, Margaret Ulmer Colomb; hissiblings, Earl, MargaretShelton (James), Michael,Barbara Collura (Steve),Robert(Wendy); his many nieces and nephews.David waspre‐ceded in deathbyhis fa‐ther, C. Earl Colomb,Jr. He was aHolyCross Man, Class of 1970 andgradu‐atedfromLSU in 1974. He was acaptain forManresa Retreat HouseGroup 22 and attended Manresafor thirty-sevenyears.David’s character proved hiscore values. Hislovefor Christ was real,and it influenced all hislifestyle choicesand priorities. Davidbegan working at EDG, Inc. in 1984, earningthe respect and admiration of col‐leagues andcommunity members alike. He retired asa managing principalin 2012. Outsideofwork, he enjoyed cyclingand golfing withthe love of hislife, Pauline.Theyalsoenjoyed playing in couplesgolf tournaments.Hewas an avidLSU fan,makingsev‐eraltrips to Omahafor the College WorldSeriesand had planstoattendthis year. David’slegacyof kindnessand generosity willliveoninthe hearts of all thosewho knew him. “I loveyou more!” Relatives and friendsare invitedto attend funeralservicesat St. PeterCatholicChurch, 125 E. 19thAve., Covington, LA. Visitation at church will beheldonWednesday, June 18, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. withfuneral Mass at 12:30 p.m.Interment to follow at St. Joseph AbbeyCeme‐tery. In lieu of flowers, do‐nations maybemadein David’s memory to Man‐resaRetreat House(Con‐vent, LA), St.JosephAbbey, orthe American HeartAs‐sociation.E.J.FieldingFu‐neral Home hasbeen en‐trusted with funeral arrangements. TheColomb familyinvites youtoshare thoughts, fondestmemo‐ries, andcondolences on‐lineatE.J.FieldingFuneral HomeGuest Book at www ejfieldingfh.com

Davis,Vicki Savola

VickiRuth SavolaDavis died peacefullyonMay 12, 2025, in San Jose, California. Raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, Vicki is an alumnusofSt. Martin's High School. She earned undergraduateand graduate degreesineducation, then went on to teachand serve as an assistant superintendentatpublic school districtsin Kentucky, NewMexico, andTexas. Vickiwas known for her

intelligence and wry humor, hercreativity and crafting skills and, especially, for hertireless effortstosupport others Even in herfinal years Vickineverstopped helping. Shefostered localcats whoneededa loving home Shebecame pen palswith inmates whoneededunderstanding and guidance. Shealso crochetedand donated more than 100 blankets, scarves, and hats to organizations serving unhoused familiesinher area. Vickiisprecededin death by herparents, Marjorie Russell Savola andOnni"Pete" Savola. Sheissurvivedbyher sisters, Ellen Savolaand Onni Cesta, herdaughters Kendra Davis and Jennifer Davis, and hergrandsons, Caleb and Sean In accordancewith Vicki'swishes, no formal memorial serviceis planned.Instead, we suggest celebratingher memory by volunteering with or contributingtoanorganization that champions causesshe careddeeply about,suchaseducation human rights, environmental protection,and animal welfare. Vicki wouldbe happy to know that her legacyofworkingtoeffect positive change is also inspiringustotake action within ourown communities

Sr age 87, passedpeacefully in his

in Mississippi. He was precededindeathbyhis wife

Link

his parents, Merlin Desire Gaspard, Sr.and Marguerite Burges Gaspard, his sister,Gladys Laville,his twin brothers, Merlin D. Gaspard, Jr.and Melvin Gaspard, and his grandson, Griffin Eliot Gaspard. He is survived by his daughter, Michelle GaspardJohnson (Bruce) of Prattville,AL; hisson, Robert J. Gaspard, Jr (Melissa) of Phoenix, AZ; hisfivegrandchildren, Blake Ashton Johnson (Lexy), Gabrielle Elizabeth Gaspard, Grayson Eli Gaspard, Robert Dean Johnson(Abby), and Gage Ethan Gaspard; his great granddaughter, Cali Wren Johnson(Dean and Abby); andmany beloved nieces andnephewsthatheenjoyed immensely Robbie graduatedin 1957 from WarrenEaston High School and briefly attended Louisiana State University. He joined the Army and washonorably discharged from the Louisiana NationalGuard in September of 1963. In 1962, he marriedhis high school sweetheart, Jeanne They were marriedfor nearly 60 years untilher passing in 2021. He started working at ayoung age at Carter's Drug Storeduring hishighschool years. He then workedasa carman for Illinois Central Gulf Railroad, whereheretired with 40 years of service Robbie hadanentrepreneurial spirit and ran acarpetinstallation business untilthe time of his retirement. In 1997, he and Jeanne moved to Carriere,MSto make their newhomenear Anchor Lake andtoenjoy theirretirement. Robbie hada deep passion for his hobbies: rebuilding antique cars andcollecting model trains, racecars andmodel airplanes. He also lovedall things golf, playing it or watching it He enjoyedpassing time sittingonhis boat deck whilewatching thesunsets. He was blessed to sip hiswife's delicioushomemade lemonadeand sweet teas whilealso havingthe abilitytoswing histools andfix anythingthatwas broken. He wasalso quick to help hisfamily, friends, andneighbors; it gave him great pleasure to lend a helpinghand. He cherished deep conversationsabout finances, historical events, theNew OrleansSaints footballteam, or anysport hisgrandchildrenwere participating in whileliving in Alabama or Arizona. He namedhis truckafter his grandson Blake andhis boat after hisgranddaughterElle. Robbie wasvery proudofthe homes he built andthe life he provided for hisfamily. There wasalways aseat open at hisdinnertable, and thankfullyhis wife was an extraordinarilytalented cook and knew theexact temperature he preferred

andDonavin D. Boyd Own‐

ing theservice at the home of Christine Carll and Karlie Hull

Cloud, LoyceArmstead

Brown, Ronald Andrew

Gaspard Sr., Robert Jude

Robert Jude Gaspard,

sleep

home

Jeanne

Gaspard,

Colman, Melissa Gwendolyn

4B ✦ Sunday,June 15,2025 ✦ nola.com

his dishes: extra hot. Robbie and Jeanne relocated to Timeless Grace in 2021 to live their remaining years. Robbie was greatly cared for by the entire staff. Robbie willbedeeply missed by his family and friends, but our hearts are comforted in knowing he is once again with his sweetheart Jeanne. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Mass in the chapel of Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd.inNew Orleans, on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, at 12:00PM.A visitation will be held at the funeral home beginning at 10:00AM. The interment will follow theMass at GreenwoodCemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider adonation in Robert's memory to a charitablefoundation that helps families offset the costs of Catholic school, The GriffinE Gaspard Foundation at 535 E. Alice Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85020. To view and sign the online guest book, please visit lakelawnmetairie.com

Grieshaber,Carlene

Margaret Carlene Grieshaber, age97, of Metairie, Louisiana, passed awaypeacefullywith her lovingfamilybyher side onWednesday,June11, 2025. Sheisprecededin death by herparents,the lateCarlA.Leeds and Helen Dick LeedsRothaupt, her belovedhusband of 63 years,CarlE.Grieshaber, and herson,David Leslie Grieshaber. Herchildren survive her, Martin (Heather) Grieshaber,Oro Valley, AZ,Ronald(Vicki) Grieshaber, NewOrleans LA, JanisGrieshaber, Metairie, LA,Thomas (Andre')Grieshaber, Metairie, LA,Cate(Joe) Uzee, Kenner,LA; grand‐children, Kelly (Patrick McAtee),Pearce(Kate) Andrew, Cole (Tayla), and Allie Grieshaber,Conner (Grace),Brett (Peyton), and SarahUzee, Jessica Suhowatsky; andgreat grandchildren,Collin (Abby), Lindsay(Liam) Bates,Reid, Cy,and Lily McAtee, Atticusand Em‐mettGrieshaber, Hayden and FrancesUzee; numer‐ous nieces andnephews Margaretgraduated from MarysvilleHighSchoolin Marysville, KS,and at‐tendedSt. Mary's College inLeavenworth,KS. She was amemberofthe New Orleans Geological Society Auxiliary andthe Pelican Squares DanceClub. She was aparishioner of St PhilipNeriCatholicChurch for over 63 years. Sheloved her animalsand enjoyed watchingall sports.She looked forwardtoher an‐nualweek in Destin,FL, withher family and friends.She will be dearly missedbyall thosewho knewand lovedher.Rela‐tives andfriends arein‐vited to attend theMemor‐ial Mass at St.PhilipNeri, 6500 KawaneeSt.,Metairie, LA, on June 17, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. Visitation will be from11:00 a.m. until the timeofthe service. Inter‐mentwillbeheldata later date. In lieu of ﬂowers, pleasehavemassessaidin her name,ormakedona‐tions in herhonor to your favoritecharity

21, 2025 at St. Raymond St Leo the Great Catholic Church, 2916Paris Ave, New Orleans,LA70119.

LeCompte,Barbara ElizabethCobar

BarbaraElizabeth Cobar LeCompte passedaway peacefullyather home, surrounded by herloving daughters,onMonday, June 9, 2025, at theage of 77. Born in GuatemalaCity, Guatemala,on April26, 1948, to Salvador Cobar and MariaConsueloAl‐danaSaravia.Barbara cametoNew Orleansin 1965, where her ﬁrstpas‐sionwas beinganIBM computeroperator. She later became involved in a familybusiness, which in‐troducedher to manage‐mentand sales, in which she excelled until herre‐tirement. Knitting washer passion!Her favorite pas‐timewas with family and friends playingcards, backgammon, andbingo She is preceded in death byher belovedparents,her lovinghusband Robert JosephLeCompte, andher sisterMagda CobarMeza. Barbara is survived by her three daughters, Michelle SosaCarter(Ellis), Brenda Sosa(Travis), andJennifer SosaMartin(IV), grand‐childrenCotySosa(Ash‐ley), JennaCarter, Julia Carter, andQuent Martin, and great-grandchildren Gabriel Sosa andJoshua Glaze.The familywould liketoexpress theirsincer‐est appreciation to Mrs. Odessa from OneTouch SitterServicesfor allher love, help,and support withour mother.Inlieuof ﬂowers, please consider donatingthe Ocular Im‐munology andUveitis Foundation(OIUF). Rela‐tives andfriends arein‐vited to visitGreenwood FuneralHome, locatedat 5200 CanalBlvd.,New Or‐leans,LA70124, on Friday June 20,2025, starting at 9:30a.m.A Memorial Mass willfollowthe visitation at 11:00 a.m. Theinurnment willbeinGreenwood Cemetery. We also invite you to shareyour thoughts, fond memories, and condolencesonlineat www.greenwoodfh.com Your shared memories will helpuscelebrate Barbara’s lifeand keep hermemory alive

Madona, JosephVincent

Joseph V. Madona, anativeofNew Orleans and resident of Metairie, passedawaypeacefully at home the morning of Thursday,June 5th, 2025,at the age of 88. He was born on September 5th, 1936,to Ponsettia Luening Madona and Joseph Bernard Madona. He was preceded in death by both parents and his step-father, HilliardMarcev;and grandparents, RoseScavo Madona Testavient StephenLuening and Louisa Huber Luening. He is survivedbyhis wife of 62 years, Jaqueline Lorenz Madona; his three sons, Mark(Jennifer), Steven (Jennifer)and Kenneth (Carrie) Madona; his grandsons, Dominic, Sami (Jenna), and Enzo Madona; and his granddaughters, CloeeSpencer (David), and Phoebe Madona. Joseph liveda fulllifeand was a devoted family man. He

graduated fromSt. Aloysius HighSchool in 1954 and attended Louisiana StateUniversity, where he was amember of thePershing Rifles. He served his country in the United States Army, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant.Joseph was a lifelong loverofsports, especially LSUand the Boston RedSox,and was an avid fisherman, golfer, and an accomplished bowler. He was also very proud of his Italianheritage, being one of the original members of the ItalianAmerican Marching Club. Joseph's family wishes to thank Anvoi Hospice fortheir compassionate care, and especially Marguerite,Catherine, Jody and Montrel. Visitation willbeatLake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home,5100 Pontchartrain Blvd, NewOrleans, LA beginning at 12:00pm on Saturday, June 21, 2025, followedbya Mass at 1:00pm.

Donna Gayle McNabb Garnett, 73, passed away June 3, 2025 in New Orleans.

Gaylewas born November 20, 1951 in Brunswick, GA.She attended theUniversity of Georgia, graduated from ValdostaStateCollege, Georgia, witha B.S. in Fine Arts.

Beginning1976 she lived in Montreal, Canada for thirteen years then returnedtothe States. Before returning to New Orleans in 2006, she worked at The SeaIsland Co, GA, in HR.InNew Orleans she worked as a SalesAssociateatMignon Faget for fourteenyears, retiring in 2021. She was preceded in death by her father, Earl McNabb and mother Eunie McNabb.

Gayle is survivedbyher spouse, Jim Garnett, Montreal, Canada; brother DonaldMcNabb, New Orleans; sister, Terri Scharhag,StSimons Island,Ga; nephew, Shelton Scharhag, Austin, Tx; good friend Bobby Ramsey, NewOrleans; and many cousins.

Gayleloved animalsand was an avid animalrescuer.

AMemorial willbeheld at 11:00, June 20, Schoen Funeral Home,New Orleans.

Parulan, Loreta Magwili

"Come to me allwho are weary and burdened and I willgiveyou rest" Matthew 11:28. It is with heavy hearts that we mournthe passing of Loreta MagwiliParulan. Her sunrise was December 11, 1942, her sunsetwas May 31, 2025 in Chalmette LA.She is survivedbyher cherished and loving husband DeaconLino, her daughter MichelleMedler (John), of Lake Mary FL, her son Allen(Amy), her dearest grandchildren Haidenand Sloane Humphrey,Noah Medler, Mason and Caleb Parulan. She is also survivedbyher

sisterChristy Martinezand her sister-in-lawMapalad Magwili both of California, her sisters-in-law Micaela Parulan and Meliza Moscardini (Rick) of California, Tessie (Nick), Elizabeth(Bert)both of the Philippines,Angel (Tach) of Slidell, brothers-in-law Nick, Bert, and Tach Parulan and is also survivedbymany nieces, nephews, cousins and dear friends. She waspreceded in death by her parents Santos and Eufrocina Magwili, siblings Remedios Ramos, Penny Mendez, Agripino,Nicanorand Delfin Magwili, and her sisters-in-lawMartha Magwili, Delia San Pedro of thePhilippinesand Gilda Bryant. Loreta was born and raised in Tanay, Rizal, Philippines and graduated fromSan Ildefonso College with aBachelor's Degree in Secondary Educationand beganteaching fortwo years before coming to America. It was after this time she met theloveof her life,her husband of 55 years, Lino. She went to DelgadoCommunity Collegetofurther her educationand studied accounting where she held various jobs working in accounting at D.H. Holmes and also at Sears Roebuck. Later in life she attended Nunez CommunityCollege to become aLicensed Practical Nurse.She loved and enjoyed caring for the elderlywhileworking at a nursing home for15years. Then when Hurricane Katrina came, she decided to hang her cap and retire. As adevoted Catholic she was aEucharistic minister and lector. She also inspired and supported her husband as he entered the Diaconate programtobecome aPermanent Deacon forthe ArchdioceseofNew Orleans. But beyond her achievements she found complete fulfillment spending timewithher grandchildrenthatbrought joy to her life

With faith filled love to Godand theChurch, she and her husband enjoyed life to thefullestbytraveling and joining pilgrimages to different parts of the worlds' Christianshrines, apparitionsand famous landmarks in Austria, Bosnia, Czech Republic, Canada, pyramids of Egypt,France, thePassion play in Germany, Greece, theHolyLand,Holland, Hungary,Ireland, Italy, Mexico,Morocco, Poland, Portugal,Spain, Switzerland,Turkey, the

United Kingdom and their native country of the Philippines. Theyalso took cruisesinAlaska, Bahamas, Caribbean, Greece andthe Virgin Islands. Loreta and her husband also lovedentertainingtheir familyand friends with partiesand around Christmas time have carolingsungbythe Filipino Silayan Choir. Her loving,jovial spirit and unwaveringcompassion to others will live on in the hearts of those whoknew her. "I have foughtthe goodfight,I have finished therace, Ihave kept the faith, Timothy1:18. Rest in peace, dear Loreta. May thehands of ourgoodLord andSavior embraceand welcome you in love and peace. Family, friends and those whoknewand workedwith Loreta are welcome for visitation at OurLady of Lourdes,2621 Colonial Dr.Violet, LA on Monday, June 16th from 9:30AM -11:00AM, followed by aMass in Loreta's memory beginningat 11:00AM. Shewill be laidto eternalrest at Southeast Veterans Cemetery in Slidell.Inlieuofflowers, please consider havinga Mass said in herhonor or a donation in memory of h i

WaynePoplin passed awaypeacefully with his familybyhis side at his homeinWaggaman, LA May 31, 2025, at theage of 84. He is survived by his sweetheartand wife Melanie of 60 years. His childrenRegan (Shane), Jeff(Danielle), Raeburn (Karen) Rachel (Jason)and Shannon (Emily). Grand‐children: Bayleigh Charleigh,Chase,Derek (Chelsi), Dustin,Kayla Macy(Bradley),JeffJr. (Lacey),Najha,Pason and Blaise.Great-grandchildren

June 15, 2025

8AM to 4 PM. If you need help ﬁnding your hero’s grave, search greenwoodnola.com for burials and a map for directions To keep your beloved’s grave clean year-round, Greenwood Cemetery offersAnnual and Perpetual Care Plans. To make improvements or another purchase, contact our caring staff by phone or through our website

Poplin,Wayne

McNabbGarnett, Donna Gayle

Owned and Operated by Firemen’s Charitable & BenevolentAssociation

Jackson, Charles Raymond 'Charlie'

Cali,Sloane, Hank,Jayden, Archieand Evie.Heisalso survivedbyhis siblings, Richard,Marshaand Timo‐thy,aswellasa host of nieces, nephews, andfam‐ily members. He waspre‐ceded in deathbyhis par‐entsReverandMarshall and Margaret Poplin,and his belovedyoungestson Jason Poplin.Wayne wasa masterateverythingfrom electrician to auto me‐chanictofamilycomedian. What he lovedtodomost inhis sparetimewas tin‐ker with hisantique cars trucksmotorcycles and scooters. Therewas noth‐ing he couldn’t ﬁx. He loved sailboatsaswelland had hisveryown in the backyardpond. He served inthe Unites States Navy and served as part of the Cuban Missile Crisis sup‐porting surveillance mis‐sions.Hewas aboard the USS Intrepid (CV/CVA/CVS11),alsoknown as The Fighting"I".Hewas very proud of hismilitaryser‐vice. Waynewas feisty and comedic until theveryend hewillbegreatly missed byall whowerelucky enoughtoknowhim.In celebration forWayne’s life, ﬂowerscan be sent to 508 SouthKennerRoad, Waggaman, LA 70094 Pleasevisit mothefuner‐als.com to view andsign the online guestbook

Margaret Adair McCarthyWood Ransone peacefully passed away in the embrace of herloving family on Thursday, June 12, 2025. Margaret was 97 ½years young.She was born in New Orleans on December 9, 1927, to John McCarthy and Veronica Hennessey McCarthy. As she always told her family, she was born into aloving family and forever surrounded by love. She was predeceased by her siblings: Jack, Dennis, Gail, Ann Louise, Catherine and Justin. Margaret married her brother's best friend, the late David J. Wood, who was the love of herlife. Their friendship grewout of many letters back and forthbetween themMargaret astudent at Loyola University and David aNavy Air Navigator in thePacific during WWII. David was later awarded theNavy's highest honor, The Distinguished Flying Cross. They married once the war ended and went on to have alively, bustling, happy familyofsix children-each one an individual: the late David, Jr.; the late Carolyn Wood Kinabrew (John); Stephanie Wood Jumonville (Robert); the late Greg (Kathy); Rob (Tonette); and Mary Beth Wood Wooten (Bob). Margaret was the consummate great mother- she loved her children enormously and enjoyed all of their escapades. She especially loved the fact that her children loved each other and were kind to each other. Margaret and David marveled at the magnificence of their lives. Both from humble beginnings, they rose to attain degrees from Tulane University and enjoyed professional success. They both worked hard as educators,and David had a second job with Delta Airlines in order to support his large family. They loved watching their six children grow up and pursue their own interests and dreams. Margaret lost David to cancer when she was 58, after 35 years of marriage. Most of her children were married, and some beginning their own families. After mourning the loss of David, Margaret claimed God blessed her with another good manshe met and married the late John E.B. Ransone who had lost his loving wifeto cancer. They had 20 good years together. "Poppie became the grandfatherto Margaret's grandchildrento the ones already born and to those who followed: David (predeceased),John, Christopher, Suzi, Robert, Cooper, Richard, Jenny, Conor, Ashley, Stephen, Robertand Amanda. Margaret became "Nonnie" and reveled in her grandchildren's lives and accomplishments. Thereafter, her joy continued when her great grandchildren were born -24in all: Maggie, Jonas, Kira,

Lulu, Josephine,David Robert, Juliette, Brennan, Caroline,Benny, Duke, Charly, Robbie, Richard, Hudson, Peyton, Isabelle, Matty, Connor, Marie, Emilia, Charles and Jacques

Margaret' slonglifewas asuccessful one. First, as a loving mother,then amagnificent teacher,and finally, as aconsequential volunteer, changing the world forgood Margaretloved being 'Irish'.She was amember of the Irish Cultural Society, and she andher husbandhosted receptions forwriters,singers and diplomats from Ireland Oneofthe membersin the group suggestedthey give tribute to the thousands of Irish immigrants who lost their livesdigging the New Basin Canal. Margaret agreedand startedthe ball rolling- she was instrumental in bringingthe project to fruition. Today, you can enjoy the park with the largeCelticCross, now named Hibernian MemorialPark locatedon West End Blvd in New Orleans.

Hervolunteer interests branchout from there.She becamea memberof Woman fora Better Louisiana (WBL). As chairman of the Child Advocacy CommitteeofWBL Margaretand fellow member,Nancy Simoneaux wanted betterprotection forchildren, including having anyone who worked with children to be fingerprintedand background checks performed.So, these two forcesofnature traveled toand from Baton Rouge to the State Capitol tomeetwith many legislators forthemtoenact and pass fingerprint legislation. Thiswas successfully accomplished,and the ladies werepleased. Until .they discoveredthe legislature failed to fund the law. Back to Baton Rouge and the StateCapitol they went, once again meeting with legislators. Finally, fundingwas provided for the newfingerprint law. Childrenweresafer. Margaret was alsoa CriminalCourt Watch Volunteer.She and other WBLmembersfollowed cases involvingchildren, particularly childabuse cases. They wantedtoensure the systemwas working forand protecting children. Again, childrenwere safer.Always the warrior forchildren.

Thereafter, Margaret was invitedtobea member of the Metropolitan Crime Commission. She served admirablyfor many yearsand was neverafraid to offer commonsense, insightful comments and suggestions. She worked closely with Rafael Goyeneche, President of the MetropolitanCrime Commission, who she respectedand admired deeply. Next, Margaretwas appointed to the American Judicature Society(AJS) board in Washington, DC. Again, she represented Louisiana admirably offering smart, honest input Shechuckled, recallingher firstAJS Board meeting. Boardmembers were askedtogive short bios of themselves as introductions. Mostofthe board members wereIvy League grads, very successful businessmen and jurists. They had numerous degreesand shared them. Whenitwas Margaret's turn, she spoke of herchildren, her degreesfrom Tulane University, but then she added allof herchildren'sdegrees (including medicineand law), which she claimedasherstoo since she encouraged and supported her childrenin their many academicpursuits.The AJS board members smiled, clapped and fell in lovewiththis no nonsense force, agrandmother,fromLouisiana In recognition for her amazing volunteer work, she was honored with a numberofawards, including the AngelAward, as well as the St. Elizabeth's GuildVolunteer Activist Award. If you can believeit, Margaretalsohad time for hobbies: gardeningand sewing.And so it was, when she sloweddown her volunteer work, she sewed for family and friendsmostlysewing aprons. Everyone loved receiving an apron from Nonnie. Sewing kept Margaret busy up until abouta week

beforepassing. Sheremained independent and engaged in her condo throughout this time. Her wonderful housekeeper, Flor, helped her remain in her condo, and Margaret always appreciated her helpand kindness. Then, after amildstrokein December 2024, Margaret reluctantly accepteda littlemorehelpfromtwo compassionate caregivers who helped her each morning -namely, Erica and Debra. She fellinlove with both of them and appreciated their help. Margaret'sfamily especiallythanks these three wonderfulwomen, as they madeitpossible fortheir mother to remain independent. Margaret's many friends at her condocomplex also providedher friendship,loveand support. She enjoyed sitting outwith them and having aglass of wine as oftenas she could.Margaret's familythanks these neighbors fortheir ongoing love and support of their mother. In closing, the resounding theme in Margaret's life was LOVE. She received much love,soshe had much love to share. Always. Evenatthe end of her beautiful life,about oneweekbeforeshe passed, she underwent emergency surgery, and thesurgeondiscoveredan aggressive cancer in her peritoneal cavity.When told, Margaret calmlyand lovinglyaccepted the news. She gently and kindly helpedher children throughtheir shock and grief. She explained that she was readytogo, to embrace her husband, David, her threepredeceasedchildren, her parents, etc. Her serenity, courageand acceptance was contagious. She was graceful and grace-filled Always themother loving her children. Areal class act In lieu of flowers, friends are welcomed to send donations in Margaret'smemory to: Hibernian Memorial Park c/o 209 SpencerAve.,New Orleans, Louisiana 70124; Women for aBetter Louisiana c/o 20 Fontainebleau Dr. New Orleans, LA 70125; Metropolitan Crime Commissionc/o 1615 Poydras St. Ste. 1060, New Orleans, Louisiana 70112 or go to www.metrocrime.org

Relatives and friends are invited to attend services forMargaret on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 held at LakeLawn Metairie Funeral Home,5100 Pontchartrain Blvd. New Orleans, LA.Visitation will be from 12:00 noon until theMass begins at 2:00pm. Receptionwillfollow.

PriscillaScallon,age 82, passedawaypeacefully on Friday, June 6, 2025. Born PriscillaGayle Clintonon Dec.2,1942, in Baytown, Texas,she made herhome inLaPlace,Louisiana where shelived forthe last 52years.She is preceded indeath by herbeloved husband of 51 years, TurnerJ.Scallon,and her parents,Cecil DeeClinton and MarieWolff. Priscilla is survivedbyher children: Stephen J. Scallon(Larie) GregoryL.Scallon (Staci), TeresaS.Holen (Kevin), brother ChuckClintonand sisterLaura Gregory. She was affectionately known asGiGitoher beloved grandchildren:Haydn Scal‐lon (Holly), Kayleb Scallon (Morgan), CatherineScal‐lon,Elizabeth Scallon, Sarah Holen(Angel),and Matthew Holen(Tess).She alsoleavesbehindher niece,AshleyGerke (Lee), along with extended family members anddearfriends She wasa gentle kind soul that relished in taking care

of others.She hada cre‐ative spirit anda love for painting, sewing,artsand crafts, baking,gardening, playing cards, andmostof all,spendingtimewith familyand friends. She was aproud longtime memberofLa-BusyBees LaPlace chapter, where she builtlasting friend‐ships andsharedher many talents.Servicesand inter‐mentwillbeprivate,in keepingwithher wishes Arrangementshavebeen entrusted to Millet-Guidry FuneralHomeinLaPlace Memoriesand condo‐lencesmay be offeredat www.milletguidry.com.

TommyLee Smith, ade‐voted manoffaith,loving husband,father, grandfa‐ther, andlifelongservant tohis community and church,passedaway peacefullyonJune 9, 2025 atthe ageof79. Apillarof strengthand humility Tommy Smithservedfaith‐fully formanyyears as a deaconatBedicoBaptist Church,where hissteady presence, deep compas‐sion, andquiet leadership touched countless lives. His life wasdeﬁnedbyser‐vice— to God, to hisfam‐ily,and to allthose he en‐countered.Hewas pre‐ceded in deathbyhis beloved wife of 47 years, MaryLee Smith, with whomheshareda life rich inlove, laughter,and devo‐tion. He wasalsopreceded indeath by hisparents, Charles C. Smithand BessieDee Matthews Smith,aswellashis sib‐lings:IrisMagum,Charles Smith,VesterSmith,and James B. Smith. Laterin life, he wasblessedwitha secondchapter of com‐panionshipthrough his marriagetoJudyAnn Smith,his loving wife of the past 10 years, who re‐mainedfaithfullybyhis sideuntil hispassing Tommy is survived by his wifeJudyAnn Smith, his children, CaroleeSmith James C. Smithand wife Rebecca Smith, JimmieMc‐Counand wife SusanMc‐Coun, JeffreyMcCounand wifeBellMcCoun, Greg Mc‐Counand wife KrisMc‐Coun. He also leaves be‐hinda legacy of love through hisgrandchildren: VictoriaWillieand hus‐bandCaleb Willie,Cailynn Smith,Ainsley Smith, Wyatt Smith, TatumSmith TaylorMcCoun, Carson Mc‐Coun, Hailey McCoun Heather McCoun, Brandt Glover, andBryce Glover –aswellasone great-grand‐son,JonathanRuckerJr. He was born in Natchez, MS and wasa resident of Madisonville, LA before movingtoGonzales, LA.He retired after many yearsas VicePresident of Opera‐tions with Sav-A-Center Food Stores,havingbuilt a longand respectedcareer inthe retail groceryindus‐try.After retirement,driven bya deep passionand a lifelongdream,hereturned toworktobegin asecond career in education. He servedfaithfully in the ﬁeldofeducation formany years,positivelyimpacting the livesofstudentsand colleaguesalikebefore eventuallyretiringonce more. Relativesand friends are invitedtoattend the FuneralService on Monday June 16, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. atE.J.FieldingFuneral Home, locatedat2260 West21st Avenue,Coving‐ton,LA. Visitation will be held priortothe service,

beginningat9:00a.m.and continuinguntil thetimeof the serviceat11:00 a.m. E.J.FieldingFuneralHome has been entrustedwith funeralarrangements. Pleasesignthe guestbook atwww.ejﬁeldingfh.com

Diana LeeSzegfu, age 84, passed away on June 6, 2025 in Metairie, LA. She wasborninIndianapolis, Indiana on November 23, 1940 to the lateMarion E. Suddith,Sr. andAnnaLee Suddith.She moved to New Orleansin1960. Sheisprecededindeathbyher son Stephen M. Szegfu andsisterSheila Suddith. Sheis survived by herhusbandof 62 years LaszloF.Szegfu, son ZaneZ.Szegfu (Michele), grandchildren EmilyM.Szegfu, Kalyn V. Szegfu andAnnaC.Szegfu andgreat-grandson Brooks Edward Bergeron Sheisalso survivedbyher brotherMarion E. Suddith Jr.Inlieuofa visitation, thefamilyasks only that you keepDiana and her familyinyourprayers Arrangements entrusted to Tharp Funeral Home. Expressionsoflove and sympathy may be viewed andplacedat www.tharpcares.com.

In Loving Memory of Evan F. Trestman Belovedhusband, devoted son, celebrated attorney, spirited performer, andloyal friend. Evan F. Trestman,a nationallyrecognized trial attorney andcherished New Orleanian,passed away peacefully, leaving behind an enduring legacyofjustice,generosity, laughter, andlove. He is survived by hisbeloved wife,Pam Gengo Trestman;devoted mother, Roslyn Trestman; stepchildren, Ashleyand Sam Miles, Linn and Joseph Atiyeh;grandchildren,Mylah Miles, Oliver Atiyeh,Holland Miles, Henrik Atiyeh, Emilia Atiyeh;nieces, Lauren Geller, Isabelle Shapiro, andFranLenter; nephews, Jordan Lenter and Hayden Shapiro; andhis in-laws, Madelyn and Frank Gengo. He waspreceded in death by hisfather,Israel Trestman.

Evan wasa legal powerhouse, best knownfor his precedent-setting victory in Bernard vs. Royal Insurance Company, where he secured thelargest personal injuryverdict in Louisiana history. He also playeda pivotal roleinthe historicclass action litigation against bigtobacco, a contributionrecognized by theAmerican Lung Association with itsprestigious"Breath of Life award.

Beyondthe courtroom, Evan wasanextraordinary civic leader, appointedby

governors andmayors alike to improve institutionsfromthe Audubon Commission to theNew OrleansPolice Department. He brought brilliance andintegrity to everyrole, whethercraftinglegal strategyora blueprint for civic reform. But Evan's legacy cannotbemeasuredbyverdicts or appointments alone. He wasa compassionate man. He calledhis friends andfamilyevery day to check in,simply to showhecared.Heloved deeply andfiercely—his friends, hisfamily, hiscity, andhis mission to make a largerimpact on others. He hadawickedsense of humor, abooming voice, and aheart that rivaledthe scale of his accomplishments. He lived life with extraordinary passion Whetherskiing theslopes of Aspen, performing opera or show tunes on stage, or simply enjoying delicious ribs andlaughter, he lived life to the absolute fullest.

Aproud alumnusof TulaneLaw School, Evan creditedthe university with helpinglaunch his storied career andgave backgenerously, creating an endowmenttoelevate theMootCourt programto nationalprominence.His gift ensures that generationsofaspiringattorneys will be trained notonly in theletterofthe law but also in the art of persuasion—a crafthesomasterfully embodied.

Evan lived hislifeasa true performer: bold,authentic,and unforgettable From courtroombattles to theatrical stages, from Aspen peaks to New Orleansstreets, he embracedeverymoment with flair. Afitness enthusiast andadventurer at heart, he foundjoy in movement, in art,injustice, andin people.

Thosewho knew Evan will remember hisbrilliance, hiscompassion, his humor, and hisunwavering commitmenttoexcellence. He inspired greatness, demandedfairness, and above all,gave hisheart generouslytoall who crossedhis path. He leaves behind not just abody of legal work butalso alegacy of leadership, love,and laughter. Grateful for hisexcellent care,thankstothe amazingdoctors at Duke University Lung Transplant team ledbyDoctor John Reynolds andthe amazing doctors at East Jefferson Hospital. Mayhis memory be ablessing—andmay we eachstrive to live as fully andfearlessly as Evan Trestman.

In lieu of flowers, the familyrequests that adonation be made to Duke Healthinsupport of lung disease research. Please mail checks to Duke Health Development,ATTN: Jillian Ream, Duke Alumni and Development Records, Box 90581, Durham, NC 27708 or visit https://www.gifts.duk e.edu/dukehealth/?design ation=3916468 to make a

Szegfu, DianaLee

Smith, TommyLee

Ransone, Margaret McCarthy Wood

Trestman,Evan F.

Scallon, Priscilla

See more DEATHS

OPINION

OUR VIEWS

Usestate’s congressional mightfor study to tame the Mississippi

Perhaps no state in the union faces as many and varied water-related issues as Louisiana does, and now its ability to copewith themis under multi-faceted threats from the federal level.Ifthere were ever atime for Louisiana’s congressional delegation —which includes the two most powerful members of the House— to flex its muscle to make sure initiatives vitalto our state’sfuture are not left on thechopping block, it is now What should be especially urgent to fix is the Trump administration’shalting of a $25million U.S. Army Corps of Engineers study, approved by Congress, of the lower Mississippi River.Not onlyisthe study of great importance,but it is likelytosave far more money in the long run thanits relativelypaltry five-yearcosts.

This pound-foolish pause in funds comes amid other cuts that couldhit Louisianaparticularly hard, namely those to the National Weather Service, the National Oceanic andAtmospheric Administration and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.Those moves should draw pushback from Louisiana’srepresentatives in Congress, but the cessation of theriver study deserves immediate attention.

The Lower Mississippi ComprehensiveManagementStudy actually covers Mississippi River issues in seven states, but theLouisiana issues surely are the most complex. Louisianans need theriver to be deep enoughto accommodatecontainer vesselsfor our ports, strong enough in its main ﬂow to counteract saltwater intrusion and contained enough to avoid disastrous ﬂoods. Yetitmust also be freeenough to deposit sediment outside itsbanksinsome placessoastoreplenish erodingwetlands.

The ﬁve-yearstudy announced in 2023 was supposed to work incomplementary fashion with aseparate $22 millionstudy sponsoredby the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine.

“This funding represented alegalauthorization for the Corps to think abouthow to managethe riverfor the next 100 years,”said Sam Bentley, an LSUgeologist co-leading thatstudy Some of the issues it intends to address, though, already areurgent now,asshown by three straight years of saltwater wedgesmoving upriver,threatening drinkingwater,drainage and machinery

The responsibility for handlingalmostevery aspect of these challenges lies withthe Corps. For dredging alone from Baton Rouge to the Gulf,the Corpsspent $228millioninﬁscal year 2024. The $25 million for thestudy isa comparative dropinthe bucket. And the information from the study should help theCorpsand other policymakers ward off damagebefore it happens, which is alot lessexpensivethanhandling unexpected crises.

Louisiana’sMikeJohnsonand SteveScalise are the House Speaker andthe Majority Leader If they don’thave the pull to getthe study’s funding restarted, we havetoask why. If they aren’twilling to use it, then we havetoask why not. The case in the study’s favorisjust that obvious.

LETTERSTOTHE EDITOR ARE

WELCOME. HERE AREOUR

GUIDELINES: Letters are published identifying name, occupation and/or title and the writer’scity of residence

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 LETTER SCANHERE

Feelingsorry forMuskisnot impossible

Elon Musk may have thought that dropping more than $250 million into Trump’sreelection campaign would have bought permanent affection from the president. No, it was ashow of obeisance that labeled Musk as one tobeplayed. Besides, in Trump’sdog-eat-dog view of wealth, the far-richer Musk may have needed cutting down to size.

head of the Department of GovernmentEfﬁciency,orDOGE? What Trumpdid was make Musk the face of unpopular budget cuts.

Trumpknows about human nature. Musk, for all his awesomefaculties,does not. Like Heracles brought down by trusting ascheming wife, Musk sufferedthe fatal ﬂaw of assuming that Trumpwas truly on his side. At ﬁrst it looked like Musk’shopes would be met.

Lastmonth, Trumpheld a bon-voyage press conference for Musk in the Oval Ofﬁce. Trumppatted Musk on the head as he left DOGE to save his wounded businesses. The enduring visual wasofanunsmiling Musk with ablack eye caused by who-knows-what.

The very next day,Trumpdelivered more disrespect by announcing thewithdrawal of his nomination of Musk’spick to head NASA, his pal Jared Isaacman.

Stock of the tech mogul’scrown jewel Tesla soared on the belief that Trumpwould grandly reward his enterprises. It’s now down 29% from its December high.

Musk didn’tget that his union with Trumpwould repel Tesla buyers. They tendtobethe better educated and environmentally aware.

Did Musk think he was being rewarded with abig government job as

All of theletterswepublish include afull ﬁrst and last nameaswell as a city of residence. Sometimes the city is omitted if the writer includes atitle that is relevant to thetopic of theletter

There are several reasons why we require all writers to use their real names. First and foremost,itlets our readers know that these letters indeed come from real people. In this age, it’seasy for anyone to Google and verify that aperson with the nameofthe writer does exist. Secondly,anonymous letters by their nature could invite extreme opinions that people wouldn’tordinarily be willing tovoice if their name were attached to it. Unfortunately,though, we are seeing afew cases where writers are afraid to attach their names to what Iwould consider opinions worthy of discussion. This comes from both the conservative and liberal sides. In an era of polarization, someworry about retali-

Musk’senthusiasticendorsement apparently no longer counted formuch. Perhaps realizing that he had once again been dissed, Musk “bravely” posted acontrary view on his Xwebsite: “It is rare to ﬁnd someone so competent and good-hearted”asIsaacman.

There’ssomething sad about that. It may be hard to summon tears forthe world’srichest man, aguy whocoldly backed big reductions in life-saving humanitarian aid.

Musk says that he had been diag-

nosed with Asperger’ssyndrome, a condition tied to difﬁculty understanding social cues and unwritten social rules. We can wellbelieve it. Musk suffered at the hands of an abusive father Bullied in school, he was sent to a hospital after agroup of boys pushed him downastaircase.

As Musk returns to his limping businesses, the Tesla board seemsunsure what to pay him.Investors had become highly irritated by Musk’sdisappearance into MAGAland. As pay consultant Alan Johnson put it, the board must require that Musk start “to run it like areal company.” It’s hard to see how Tesla can recover from its founder’stoxic links with Trumpand fascistic movements in Europe. As forSpaceX,foreign governments are already canceling contracts. As he sent Musk into the sunset, Trumpclearly wanted to keep the door open formore play.“He’sgoing to be back and forth, Ithink.”

Feeling sorry forMusk is not impossible.

Froma Harrop on X, @FromaHarrop. Email her at fharrop@gmail.com.

ation from those on the opposite side of the political spectrum, especially if they live in an area where their view is in the minority Iﬁnd it increasingly disheartening that in this country,we seem tobelosing the courage to voice our convictions honestly and forthrightly Freedom of speech is abedrock principle upon which the United States was founded. Andself-censorship is almost as harmful as censorship coming from acentral authority.Wemust have theabilitytodebate issues without threats and intimidation if we hope to overcome our differences. This paper offers aforum forletters from readers because we believe it is important, but that forum is only as good as those willing to speak out.

Turning to our letters inbox, we received 61 letters from May 28 to June 5. We are starting to see increased attention to what’shappening in Con-

gress. Most of the national political conversation has revolved around President Donald Trump’sactions, but this week, we received four letters on the “Big, Beautiful, Bill” currently in the Senate. Most addressed our state’s U.S. senators, urging them to take action to protect Louisiana’sinterests. Abrupt blackouts that recently affected several Louisiana cities prompted three letters. Then, there were anumber of topics debated by the Legislature that drew your attention. We received twoletters each on the bill to shield nursing homes from lawsuits and the bill regarding so-called “chemtrails,” which conspiracy theorists say are being used to alter the weather.All the letters we received wereagainst these bills, both of which passed. Lastly,there is still timetosend in responses to our latest Town Square question: How important is your faith to your daily life, and what role, if any, should it play in public life? Send your responses to letters@theadvocate.com

Arnessa Garrett

Froma Harrop

COMMENTARY

Politicallessons learned from Dad

while they learn to read.”

On this Father’sDay,please permit alook at some political lessons Ilearned from my father Haywood H. Hillyer III, who died 15 years ago this spring, was one of those political volunteer leaders who saw his involvement as acivic duty rather than as aform of personal advancement. One of 100 young leaders from across the country invited to William F. Buckley’sConnecticut estate to found the Young Americans for Freedom group in 1960, founder of a campusconservative newspaper at Tulane University thatfeatured writings from numerous future state and national political leaders and judges, aone-termmember of the local Republican parish executive committee and quartercentury member of the Republican StateCentral Committee, Dad ended by serving more than four yearsasLouisiana’s(sole) Republican National Committeeman In that last role, Dad worked assiduously to keep neo-Nazi

David Dukefrom seizing the formal, organizational reins of theLouisianaRepublican Party when Duke’spolitical career was ascendant —including one incident when Dad physically interposed hisbody between Dukeand the podium when Duke tried to seize control of astate political convention

Through it all, Dad was one of that rare breedwho never asked for anything in return for his volunteerwork: no business, no favors for hisfriends, no patronage ﬁefdoms. Instead,tohis law ﬁrm’s displeasure, he lost countless billable hours while instead working to advance theprinciples in which he believed.

Almost always on theconservative side of intra-party disputes, Dad nevertheless was trusted by all sides as beingscrupulously fair.The statecentral committee’sjob is to set party rules —and aspolitical insiders understand, sometimes the rules themselves can, in backdoor ways, favor one side or another Iwatched in numerous SCC

meetings when anger rose as mattersreached impasses, only for my father to rise and, in quiet tones, propose and explain aworkable solution.Almost invariably, theemotional temperature would drop and my dad’sproposal would be adopted. It was for good reason that in one of my father’sreelection races, longtime New Orleans GOP leader Charlie Dunbar mailed an endorsement letter that began with aline taken from the old E.F.Hutton commercial: “When Haywood Hillyer talks, people listen.”

Onemajor key to his credibility (in addition to theforce of his logic) was that everyone knew that while Dad considered politics to involve ﬁerce competition, he considered it acontest of honor rather than ablood sport. Unless and until an individual showed otherwise, Dad assumed everyone was acting in good faith and he thereforeshowed respect to those with whom he disagreed. He also refused to ascribe blame to awhole group if individual membersofthat group “dealt

dirty.”Respect, in return, wasafforded to him

While Dad was as interested in practical results as anyone —and usually pretty good at getting them —hestill, and always, saw political action as an expression of idealism. Yethehad the humility to avoid absolutism: Compromise, he believed, could be thoughtful and principled rather than craven. His job was to work like heck to advance his beliefs, and then to take the mostfavorable achievable result and move on.

Meanwhile, one of Dad’s deep desires was to de-racialize politics.Hetold me of when he was at his boarding school up East, not yet 17 years old, when the SupremeCourt in Brownv.Board of Education ruled that school segregation wasunconstitutional. Oneofhis snooty teachers, knowing Dad was asoutherner,assumed he would be angered by thedecision. Dad, indignant at the teacher’sassumption, said he told the teacher: “I don’tknow the legal ins andouts, but Isee no reason why it hurts aWhite boy or a Black boy to sit next to each other

Several years later,asatraditional jazz aﬁcionado, Dad regularly ignored segregation lawsby going in the back roomsand back alleys with veteran Black jazz musicians during their betweenset breaks so he could hear their four-decade-old stories of the dawnofthe Jazz Age. Those experiences guided him as he tried diligently (but, alas, without much success) to recruit Black voters to the Republican side while trying to steer the party’ssubstance and rhetoric away from anything interpretable as featuring racial undertones.

Among the manypolitical lessons Ilearned from Dad, then, werethese: that politics at heart should maintain asense of idealism,that honor and trust are crucial, that political opponents need not be personal enemies and that appeals to racial animus —and indeed all formsofbigotry —have no valid place in American life. Meanwhile, Happy Father’s Day,one and all.

Quin Hillyer canbereached at quin.hillyer@theadvocate.com.

Cassidyisrunning outofexcuses forRFK Jr.

Give U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy credit for this: He usually doesn’t hide from questions.He invites them,infact, and generally tries to make aconvincing case for whatever vote or position he’s taken.

Yetwhen it comes to defendinghis key,controversial vote to make professional vaccine denier Robert F. Kennedy Jr.the secretary of Health and HumanServices,the physician senator from Louisiana seems to have runout of answers.

Since then, Kennedy has done plenty to alarm mainstream doctors and researchersand the many,many people who support their important work. Butwhat’s left Cassidy largelyspeechless is Kennedy’smass ﬁring of an expert panel that advises the government on vaccines.

We weren’tprivy to theconversations Cassidy had before deciding to carry one of President Donald Trump’smost controversial nominations (which is saying something) overthe ﬁnish line. But we do know he and Kennedy talked about this particular panel, becauseCassidy said so in his ﬂoor speech explaining his vote.

“If conﬁrmed, [Kennedy] will maintain the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’sAdvisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) withoutchanges,” Cassidy assured everyone listening.

U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-Baton Rouge, listens to Secretary of Health and HumanServices RobertF.KennedyJr.,ashetestifies before aSenate committee May14.

Last week, after Kennedy did just the opposite, Cassidy put out aconcerned statement on X.

“Of course, now the fear is that the ACIP will be ﬁlled up with peoplewho know nothing about vaccines exceptsuspicion. I’ve just spoken with SecretaryKennedy,and I’llcontinue to talk with himtoensure this is not thecase,” he wrote.(Kennedylater said he hadonly committed to giving Cassidyone appointment on the 17-member committee.)

And that’s it. Asked to elaborate on his position in aTuesday call

with Louisiana journalists, Cassidy referred to his statement Asked whether he’sdisappointed at the ﬁrings, he referred to the statement again. Asked whether he’dbeen misled, he did so athird time, and said journalistsshould keep an eye on his feed for any updates because that’show he planned to communicate on the issue going forward.

“I just found on somethinglike this,which is so topical, it’sbest to have aset of prepared statements.”

In thesame call, Cassidy did

weigh in on his stance toward vaccine skepticism in general by offering apassionate riffabout a woman in Canada whose unborn child had died of measles.

“Because I’mpro-life, because I’m adoctor,because Iknow the science and because Ilook at the tragedy of people’sbabies dying in utero as if they’re aborted because someonechose not to get vaccinated,I’m about vaccination,” he said. Well, that’sgood to hear.But where’sthat guy when we’re talking not just about the threat of deadly infectious disease but about what federal ofﬁcials are doing —ornot doing —toprotect people from it?

Three days after that press call, Ichecked the feed Cassidy had told journalists to watch to see if he had any moretosay

There were lots of posts —on thesituation in L.A., on fentanyl, on student debt, on the One Big BeautifulBill and on one of the senator’s favorite annual events in Congress, National Seersucker Day.But there wasnothing more on the vanquished vaccine panel.

It’sfair to point out that all senators can and should monitor all sortsofissues, and that Cassidy, who leads acommittee that oversees not just health but also education, labor and pensions, has a broad portfolio. But on vaccines, there’snosafety in numbers. He’s not one of 100, he’sone of one.

He’sthe respected professional who once started avaccine program in Baton Rouge. His wasthe key votethat could have stopped

Kennedy’sconﬁrmation by offering cover forothers with doubts. He is the committee chair tasked with overseeing what Kennedy does. The American Medical Association is asking him to do just that by holding hearings on the vaccine panel’sfate.

He should. In that floor speech after he voted yes, Cassidy suggested he would act if such a concerning situation arose: “If Mr.Kennedy is confirmed, Iwill use my authority …torebuff any attempts to remove the public’s access to lifesaving vaccines without ironclad, causational scientific evidence that can be defended before the mainstream scientific community and before Congress.”

But he likely won’t He has an election to worry about next year.And the very segment of the electorate he’s been trying to appease ever since he voted —atthe timeunapologetically —toconvict Trump during his second impeachment is still coming forhim,even as the people he later cut adeal with show no sign up holding up their end of the bargain.

He won’tsay that. In fact, Friday his spokesperson said that Kennedy’sinitial “commitment was about the ACIP process, not stafﬁng,” according to Reuters. The real question is whether there’sany dwindling hope that Cassidy can —and will —try to do anything about it.

Email StephanieGrace at sgrace@theadvocate.com.

After many years living in and covering Washington, there is one overriding principle Ihave learned: If you don’ttrust politicians you will never be disappointed.

President Donald Trump andthe House Republican leadership promised that what Trump called “the one, big, beautiful bill” would, among other things, reduce the $36 trillion federaldebt. No less an expert thanthe nonpolitician Elon Musk told CBS News: “I was disappointed to see the massive spending bill, frankly,which increases the budget deﬁcit.”

Musk’sremarkscame as he announced he was severing his relationship with DOGE, which exposed billionsofdollars in government waste, fraud and abuse. It will be difﬁculttoﬁnd the shameful misspending un-

covered by DOGE in this bill, perhaps because it maynot be included. Federal judges are blocking some of theproposed spending cuts, which only adds to the problem, allowing the deﬁcit and debt to increase. Massive debt is arelatively newphenomenon. According to the U.S. Treasury Fiscal Data, the last time the federal government had abalanced budget was in 2001. Before that, balanced budgets were achieved in 1969, 1998, 1999 and 2000. It’s not impossible to balance the budget. What is lacking is the will.

Thebill certainly is big, more than1,100 pages as now written. If beauty is inthe eye of the beholder, it’sworth asecond and third look. That large abill means many won’tread it, which

is what politicians no doubt hope will happen. It’show they sneak through spending they otherwise might not be able to defend if it were exposed.

While thebill is nowinthe Senate, which is likely to make major changes,itdoes include some spending cuts (but not nearly enough) and revenue enhancements.

The TaxFoundation is not impressed by thehypefrom the president and House Republican leaders: “Rather than making the most pro-growthfeatures permanent,the bill spends far too much money on political gimmicks and carve outs, resulting in apackage that provides amodest boost to theeconomy but at ahuge ﬁscal cost.”

As if thetax code isn’tlong and complicated enough, this bill makes it even more so. Again, theTax Foundation analysis

says“(The bill sends) taxpayers through amazeofnew rules and compliance costs that in many cases probably outweigh any potential taxbeneﬁts. No tax on tips, overtime,and car loans comes with various conditions and guard rails that, if enacted, will likely require hundreds of pages of IRS guidance to interpret.”

The federaltax codeisalready 6,871 pages long andextremely complex. If taxregulations are added, which arethe Treasury Department’sinterpretation of thecode, the pages balloon to 75,000. What about Trump’spromise of no tax on Social Security beneﬁts?

The Wall Street Journal reports thebill only contains a“half measure,” giving seniors “a temporaryextra deduction of $4,000 But this alternative... would

leavemanypeople still paying income taxesonSocial Security beneﬁts.”

Aﬂat taxand mandating balanced budgets exceptinwartime is the answertoall of this. It would simplify everything and endthe frustration many feel each April 15, trying to understand forms andregulations that make aforeign language you haven’tstudiedseem easierto understand.

Thatisn’tlikely to happen, because members of Congress have usedthe taxcodeand spending for decades to favor certain constituenciesthathelp keep theminofﬁce. As long as that is the primary goal of so many politicians, the bills theypass are likely to remain big, but more ugly thanbeautiful.

Email Cal Thomas at tcaeditors@ tribpub.com

Quin Hillyer

Stephanie Grace

Cal Thomas

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JOHN MCDONNELL

Haywood Hillyer

secure gift online.

To view and sign the family guestbook, please visit lakelawnmetairie.com

Viguerie,EdwardJéan

Edward Jéan Viguerie

(TheItalian side of the familycalledhim Giovanni orGio forJohn),66, of Harahan,Louisiana, passedawayonFriday, May 30, 2025, after an ex‐tremely briefbut coura‐geous battle againstcan‐cer.Jeanwas born in New Orleans,LAonDecember 23, 1958,and grew up in Bay St.Louis andWave‐land, Mississippi.Asa young manheattended school at CoastEpiscopal Helater movedbackto New Orleanswhere he ﬁn‐ished hiseducation.JéanV ashewas lovingly called, was preceded in deathby his parents, Patricia Bar‐tramViguerieand Joseph EdwardViguerie, andhis beloved in-laws, Martin J. Simone, Sr.and Jeanne Faucheux, hisnephew, SeanSimone, brother-inlaw,William Duncan Lamb, and uncle, Daniel A. Viguerie. He is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, LisaSimoneViguerie, his sisters,Janie Viguerie LambDropco(Ken) and Dorothy Viguerie Sjostrom, brother-in-lawMartinJ Si‐mone, Jr.(Laura) anda dearfriendhereferredto ashis adoptedbrother-inlaws, JimmyHuxen (Jane) and AnthonySequeria (Wendy).Heleaveshis aunts to cherishhis mem‐ory:ClaireViguerieEvans (Kenneth),Anne Viguerie, Marie Viguerie Castaing (Eddie),and BettyViguerie Bienvenu(Al). Additionally, hewas lovedand will be dearlymissedbyhis niecesand nephews: Mar‐tin “Trey” JSimone, III, AmandaSimoneCalhoon (Bret), WilliamRobertson Lamb (Duyen), Robert Dun‐

DEATHS continued from canLamb(Emily), andKyle AlbertSjostrom, alongwith 9 greatnieces and nephews.Asper Jéan’s wishes, aprivate burial service will be held at a later date at Garden of Memories.

Molly Webster died on May9,2025,one week after her 91st birthday. A graduateofthe Northfield School forGirls, and Oberlin College, she marriedDouglas Webster in Augustof 1965,and set off on a62-year adventure with her one true love.In the course of herlifeshe was awriter,editor,researcher, electron microscopist, photographer, smallbusiness owner, master gardener, political activist, and championof righteous and progressive issues. As she occasionally said, she was tougher than she looked. Molly was born in Baltimore Maryland, where her fathertaught andstudied at the Peabody Institute,instilling in his daughter alife-long love of classical music. She movedtoNew Orleans in 1973,whereshe and Doug livedfor 25 years. Molly foundedthe New Orleans chapterofParents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays(PFLAG) and served as its president forten years. She befriended and influencedhundreds of people in this capacity and was instrumental in gettingthe first anti-discrimination ordinance established in NewOrleansin 1991 They retiredto Patagonia Arizona, where Molly designed their dream housebuiltatop a mesa in the high desert country. There theydeveloped aclose networkof friends with whomthey gathered regularly,including bucolic fullmoon par-

ties, and their annual MardiGras party. As the bones begantocreak, they eventually moved to aretirementcommunity in Green Valley, as did several of their Patagonia friends. Molly is survivedbyher daughter Mary-jo (Dawn), and son Will(Jane). She taught her kids howto shell peas and chopcarrots, enjoyhard work and alonglunch, stand on principle, and support agood cause.Alsosurvivedbyher sisterLindajo,brother David(Pauline), and her loving catsGeorgeand Sister. She was predeceasedbyher beloved husband Doug

Although Molly spent her last few decadesfar away fromNew Orleans, she never stopped loving NOLA food and culture, longing for an oysterpoboy, and cherishingmany long-distance friendships maintained over theyears. The family would like to extend their deepest appreciationtothe staff at La Posadafor their superb care for and kindnessto Molly. PerMolly's desire there will be no events commemorating her life;in lieu of flowers,please make adonation to your local NPRstation,orany badass nonprofitout there fighting the good fight.

Donald WileyWeekley Jr.,diedonWednesday June 11, 2025, at theage of 80. Survived by hisbeloved wonderful wife,Lana; and brother,Christopher.He was preceded in deathby his sister,Kathryn.Also survivedbynieces, Amy and Stacie,and nephews, Brian andAdam, as well as great-niecesand greatnephews.BorninCalifor‐nia to Donald,Sr.,a 24-year U.S.Air Forceand U.S. Ma‐rineCorps Veteran, and Christine,a former Miss Mobile,Alabama,beauty contestant. Residing in the New Orleansareasince 1970, Donwas an executive atareacommercialbanks priortoforming hisman‐

agementconsultingprac‐tice. As abankerand a businessconsultant, his clients included hundreds ofbusinessownersin dozensofindustries around theUnitedStates and in foreigncountries Heworkedfor U.S. intelli‐gence agencies in Vietnam and otherAsian countries asanintelligenceanalyst Chinese linguist andcrypt‐analyst andhelda topse‐cret-cryptographicsecu‐rityclearance.Hewas a veteran of theU.S.Air Force Intelligence,Surveil‐lance andReconnaissance Agency. He served this country.Don attended Tu‐laneUniversity; Yale Uni‐versity's InstituteofFar Eastern Languages(New Haven); theUniversityof Maryland(FarEastDivi‐sion, Japan);and U.S. intel‐ligence agency training schools. He wasanhonors graduate, classleaderand co-valedictorianofhis Chi‐neseclass at Yale.While in banking,hegraduated fromthe National Commer‐cialLending School at The UniversityofOklahoma. Don lovedmusic and playedpiano,verybadly Heloved to flyairplanes Hespoke five languages, somepretty well. He wasa frequentspeaker to area civic andbusinessorgani‐zations on U.S. intelligence, militaryand defense; is‐suesabout which he was passionate. He also pre‐sentednationalteleconfer‐ences andregionallec‐tures on Risk Management issues. He wasa member ofthe AssociationofFor‐mer Intelligence Officers and theAircraft Owners and Pilots Association. He was apilotwithcommer‐cial, multi-engine andin‐strumentratings.Hewas heavily involved in Kiwa‐nis,Special Olympics and other civic, serviceand vol‐unteer organizations, and was aco-founder and board member of apublic non-profitcharity that pro‐vides collegescholarships and othersupport to area youths. Acelebration of Donald'slifewillbeheldat a laterdate.

Webster, Molly B.

WeekleyJr.,DonaldWiley

Opening wincarries oversized valuefor Tigers

OMAHA, Neb.— By College World Series

standards, this was like theThrillainManila, the Yankees and Dodgers in thebig World Series, LSU versusClemson in football in August.

Let’snot go there just yet.

EG EW OR LD SE RIE S

TONE-SETTER

This is college baseball’stime on sports’ center stage, and this was about as good as this venerable event could offer in the opening round—the highest-seeded teamsstill playing, No. 3Arkansas against No.6LSU. The only two Southeastern Conference teams still standing. The two favorites among this elite eight.

Now there is one favorite, LSU, as the Tigers toppledthe mightyRazorbacks 4-1 in as dramatic of aSaturday nightasyou could have between these two borderrivals in any sport.

Not that Arkansas is done. Notthatthere isn’tagood chance LSU could seethe Razorbacks again. But Arkansas has to battle outofthe loser’sbracket while the Tigers cruise into the next crucial game at 6p.m Monday against UCLA on ESPN. TheBruins beat upstart Murray State6-4 Saturday afternoon. Arkansas coach Dave VanHorn downplayed the ﬁx his team is in, and LSUcoach Jay Johnson downplayed how much beneﬁt this win gave to his Tigers, but thefactis

ä See RABALAIS, page 5C

STAFF PHOTO By HILARy SCHEINUK

LSU left fielder Derek Curiel reacts to his run-scoring singleinthe eighthinning against ArkansasonSaturdayatCharles Schwab FieldinOmaha, Neb

STAFFPHOTO By HILARy SCHEINUK

LSU starting pitcher Kade Anderson celebrates after getting the final out of the seventh inning in aCollegeWorld Series game against Arkansas on SaturdayatCharles Schwab Field in Omaha, Neb.LSU defeated Arkansas 4-1.

BY KOKI RILEY Staff writer

OMAHA,Neb.— Kade AndersonattendedSt. Paul’sHigh in Covington. For all of his talent, his career for the Wolves was relatively short-lived.Anderson underwentTommy John surgery in April of his junior year and missed his entire seniorseason, eliminating any chance of him forgoing his commitment to LSU and starting his professional baseball career

ANALYSIS

That situation, as dark as it was, helped place Anderson on the mound at Charles Schwab Field on Saturday night in LSU’sﬁrstgameofthe College World Series against Arkansas. In acritical game between the two highest-seeded teams remaining in the CWS, Anderson allowed just one earned run in seven innings, surrendering just threehits andrecording seven strikeouts in LSU’s4-1 win over the Razorbacks.

ä See LSU, page 5C

NewvibehighlightsSaints’ offseason program

BY LUKE JOHNSON Staff writer

Summer vacation has arrived for the 2025 New Orleans Saints.

TheSaints wrapped up their offseason programthis week with twodays of minicamp practices before coach Kellen Moore called off the ﬁnal day so the team could have some bonding time. Once that was done, the players and coaches wenttheir separate ways for their last breakbefore training camp starts nextmonth.

We’velearned plenty aboutwhatthis Saints team will look like under thedirection of Moore,and we’ve developed an early conceptofwhom the major players are goingtobeinthe ﬁrst year of anew regime But thereare some questions that will have to wait until theseason draws nearer Here is what we took away from watching theoffseason unfold.

What we’velearned

It will look different:This is atop-down assessment.The structure, tempo anddrill work

of practice have all looked differentfrom recent years.The framework of theoffensive anddefensive schemes is completely new. Even thepersonnel is goingtolook new, as thecoaching staff ﬁts thepieces into places that make sense.

Whether new meansgood is up in the air New Orleans almostcertainly will go into the2025 season with lower outside expectationsthan it has had in sometime. Butthis isn’tchange for change’ssake,

ä See SAINTS, page 4C

Scott Rabalais

BROADCAST HIGHLIGHTS

Burns holds lead at soggy Oakmont

Former LSU star faces his biggest test in final round

BY DOUG FERGUSON AP golf writer

The closest Sam Burns has come to a major championship is sharing a house with a close friend who already has three of them. He has been inspired by Scottie Schefﬂer the last few years. The next step is to join him as a major champion.

Burns, a former LSU star, held steady after missing a short par putt late Saturday in the U.S. Open, responding with a beautiful pitch for a tap-in birdie and two scary putts down the hill from inside 60 feet to save par on the 18th hole at rain-soaked Oakmont for a 1-under 69.

That gave him a one-shot lead over major-tested Adam Scott and J.J. Spaun, with Viktor Hovland not far behind as the only four players to survive par Burns was at 4-under 206. He has five PGA Tour titles, the last one more than two years ago, and is coming off a playoff loss last week in the Canadian Open At stake for Burns is a chance for the 28-year-old from Shreveport to become the sixth American at 30 or under to capture his first major since 2020. Scheffler has won 19 times worldwide the last three years, including three majors, most recently last month at the PGA Championship

“Scottie’s obviously an incredible player I don’t think I need to say that,” Burns said with a laugh. “We obviously spend a lot of time together and being able to talk to him and just kind of learn from him and ask him questions, it’s been really cool.”

Scheffler has won his three majors in what turned out to be blowouts. Sunday at Oakmont was shaping up to be anything but that. Scott, who only climbed back into the top 50 in the world less than a year ago and hasn’t seriously challenge in a major in nearly seven years, became only the third player at par or better for the opening three rounds in a U.S. Open at Oakmont.

He birdied three of his last six holes for a 67, getting into the ﬁnal group when J.J. Spaun made bogey from the bunker on the 18th hole and shot 69. Scott is the only player among the top 10 who has won a major That was 12 years ago at the Masters No one has ever gone more than 11 years be-

tween their ﬁrst and second major titles.

“Putting ourselves in these positions doesn’t just happen by fluke,” Scott said. “I really haven’t been in this kind of position for five or six years, or feeling like I’m that player But that’s what I’m always working towards. It’s not that easy to figure it all out.

“But if I were to come away with it tomorrow it would be a hell of a round of golf and an exclamation point on my career.”

Spaun, who lost in a playoff at

The Players Championship in March, kept pace with Burns throughout the back nine until the end. He looked comfortable under the pressure, making only two bo-

geys while matching pars with Burns over seven straight holes.

“It seemed like we were kind of back and forth,” Spaun said. “He would take the lead, I would take the lead, I would fall back, whatever But it was fun You can’t really play against your opponent; you got to play this course. There’s just so much on demand with every shot.”

The other survivor to par was Hovland, who has been smiling as much as anyone on a course that has been exasperating to so many all week.

Hovland salvaged a bogey from an opening tee shot into the bushes and an exquisite shot off the muddied cart path.

But he hit the pin on the uphill ninth hole for birdie and hit an amazing wedge from the cabbage left of the 17th green for a tap-in birdie. He closed with a bogey from the rain-soaked rough on the 18th for a 70 and was three behind

“I’m well aware that I’ve got a chance tomorrow, and if I shoot a low round of golf tomorrow then anything can happen,” Hovland said. “But there’s a lot of good players around me. Adam Scott played a brilliant round today, just didn’t really miss a shot. That forces me to play some really good golf tomorrow.”

Carlos Ortiz turned in one of the most remarkable performances by going bogey-free for 30 consecutive holes. The streak ended on the 18th, but the Mexican still had a 67 and was very much in range at even-par 210.

Missing from the mix was Schefﬂer, the world’s No. 1 player who had won three of his last four tournaments coming into the U.S. Open. Schefﬂer never found any momentum, with one critical stretch coming right before the turn.

After holing a 20-foot birdie putt on the sixth, Schefﬂer saved par after driving into the rough on No. 7 and hitting wedge to 3 feet. But then what looked like a tap-in par on the long par-3 eighth turned into a shocking miss.

He wound up with a 70, moving him from a tie for 23rd to just outside the top 10. But he was eight shots behind Burns.

Six-lane highway somehow blends into Oakmont

BY NOAH TRISTER AP sportswriter

OAKMONT Pa For a six-lane interstate carving its way through a world-famous golf course, the Pennsylvania Turnpike at Oakmont is surprisingly unintrusive. From an overhead view, the sight is somewhat jarring — a wide expressway and railroad track dividing the course essentially in half. At ground level, however, the road is not much of a distraction. In fact, it can’t be seen from much of Oakmont’s layout “And honestly, you don’t even really hear it,” Oakmont historian David Moore said. “It’s amazing how quiet it really is.” Moore is an expert on this small stretch of the Turnpike or Interstate 76, if you prefer. Its path through the course at Oakmont — the site of the U.S. Open this week — was originally just a train track. “One of the old history books here talks about how until dieselpowered trains came through, there’d be soot all over the first green, the ninth tee and all that,” Moore said. “They’d be driving by and set off all the smoke and just cover the place.” This is not the Road Hole at St. Andrews. There’s nothing quaint about the Turnpike at Oakmont. It also isn’t — or at least, it shouldn’t be — a factor in the course of play With its slick greens and ferocious rough, Oakmont is difficult enough without adding a forced carry over a bunch of 18-wheelers. Holes Nos. 2-8 are to the east of the highway and all the rest are to the west. The first green and ninth tee, as well as the second tee and eighth green, converge on the two sides of the Turnpike, near a couple of footbridges that allow fans

Thompson, Sagstrom share lead at LPGA Classic BELMONT, Mich. — Lexi Thompson birdied two of the final three holes Saturday in the Meijer LPGA Classic for a share of the third-round lead with five others, including former LSU star Madelene Sagstrom, in a bid to win for the first time in just over six years. Thompson shot a 4-under 68, rebounding with birdies on Nos. 16 and 18 after driving into the water and making a bogey on the par-5 14th. At 11-under 205 at Blythefield County Club, she was tied with Nanna Koerstz Madsen (68), Sagstrom (67), Sofia Garcia (68), Hye-Jin Choi (69) and Carlota Ciganda (69). Thompson was back on top a year after losing a playoff to Lilia Vu on the tree-lined course. The 30-year-old from Florida won the last of her 11 LPGA Tour titles in early June 2019 at the ShopRite LPGA Classic.

Rockets, Adams agree to $39M, 3-year extension

HOUSTON Center Steven Adams agreed to a three-year, $39 million contract extension to remain with the Houston Rockets, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Saturday Adams, who was set to become an unrestricted free agent on June 30, has been with the Rockets since a trade from Memphis in February 2024. Adams, who played for the Pelicans from 2020-21, missed the entire 2023-24 season while recovering from knee surgery before returning this season. He averaged 3.9 points and 5.8 rebounds in 58 regular-season games. Adams became an important contributor in the playoffs, where he averaged 22.1 minutes per game with 5.7 points and 6.6 rebounds.

Keys loses to 37-year-old qualifier at Queen’s Club

LONDON Madison Keys was stunned in straight sets by 37-yearold qualifier Tatjana Maria in the Queen’s Club semifinals on Saturday Maria, a German mother of two, beat Keys 6-3, 7-6 (3) for her first career victory in four meetings with the reigning Australian Open champion.

She is the oldest singles ﬁnalist on the WTA Tour since 2020, when Serena Williams won the Auckland Classic at age 38. No 86 Maria, a former Wimbledon semifinalist, toppled No 8 Keys, who hit 10 aces but failed to get a break.

Keys, the No. 2 seed, exited with the No 1 Zheng Qinwen, who lost to No. 8 Amanda Anisimova of the U.S. 6-2, 4-6, 6-4.

Twins place 3B Lewis on injured list; Buxton injured HOUSTON The Minnesota Twins placed third baseman Royce Lewis on the 10-day injured list Saturday with a left hamstring strain. Also on Saturday, center ﬁelder Byron Buxton left the game against the Astros in the seventh inning with a bruised left elbow after being hit by a pitch an inning earlier Lewis was injured running to ﬁrst base on a single in the ninth inning of Friday night’s 10-3 loss to Houston and had an MRI on Saturday Manager Rocco Baldelli said it was a mild strain.

course

to cross over the road.

The biggest reason the roadway blends in when you’re on the course is because there’s an elevation change down to the highway So the Turnpike presents largely as a gap in the middle of the course — if it’s perceptible at all. There is no giant screen to prevent wayward balls from flying onto the road. The holes closest to the highway on the west side are generally perpendicular to it. Those on the east are more parallel, but it would take a pretty extraordinary miss to reach the Turnpike.

That’s not to say it can’t happen. Moore tells the story of Cary Middlecoff hitting a ball toward the highway on No. 10 before withdrawing in disgust in 1953. Thirty years later, it was Tom Weiskopf on No. 8 working his way into Oakmont lore.

“He ﬂared one off to the right, it landed in a passing train, and it ended up in Cleveland,” Moore said. “The running joke around here: It was the longest tee shot ever hit.”

“It’s not a severe strain, but it is a strain that’s going to keep him off the ﬁeld for a little bit,” Baldelli said. “Definitely disappointing, but these are things that we deal with.”

Woeful Rockies absorb two records for futility ATLANTA Kyle Farmer just shrugged when asked about being part of a Colorado team that just made MLB history with the worst 70-game record in the modern era.

“We don’t care,” Farmer said after Saturday’s 4-1 loss to the Atlanta Braves left the Rockies with a 13-57 record.

The Rockies surpassed the 1932 Boston Red Sox, who were 14-56, for the worst 70-game mark since 1901.

“I mean, there’s nothing we can do about it,” Farmer said. “It is what it is We’ve just got to show up tomorrow and play There’s nothing you can really say about it except that if it happens, it happens.”

The Rockies made more inglorious history by setting a franchise nine-inning record with 19 strikeouts.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By CHARLIE RIEDEL

U.S. Open first-round leader J.J Spaun walks across a bridge over the Pennsylvania Turnpike on Thursday.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By CHARLIE RIEDEL

Sam Burns reacts to his chip shot onto the 17th green during the third round of the U.S Open on Saturday at Oakmont Country Club in Oakmont, Pa. Burns shot a 1-under 69 to stand at 4 under for the tournament.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By GENE J PUSKAR Adam Scott, of Australia, removes his hat after finishing his round on the 18th hole. Scott is tied with J.J Spaun, one shot behind leader Sam Burns.

Sterlington’s tenacious Sheets selected Mr. Baseball

BY JAKE MARTIN Written for the

LSWA

Less than 48 hours after winning the Division III nonselect championship, Sterlington baseball coach

Mark Sims reﬂected on the Panthers’ season with pitching coach Ben Sheets before looking ahead.

Valuable pieces are off the chessboard, just like any other year Sims says he believes he has the best player in Louisiana returning in Sheets’ son, shortstop Miller Sheets.

“I know there’s a lot of talent in the state, but I’ll tell you right now if there’s a draft, I’m picking him No. 1,” Sims said. “He plays every game like it’s his last game. That’s how you’re supposed to play the game.”

The younger Sheets added one major honor to validate Sims’ point. The junior is the 2025 LSWA Mr Baseball award winner Game 3 of the Division III nonselect best-of-three ﬁnal series offers an insight into Miller Sheets’ mindset. The Baylor commitment waited for his turn in a tie ballgame against Erath. He told Jacob Breen in the on-deck circle, “Just get it to me.”

Breen laid down a bunt single to load the bases with none out.

Miller Sheets delivered a two-run single, and Sterlington won 5-3

It was the Panthers’ fourth state championship, and Sheets was voted the Outstanding Player for the series.

“I just kept thinking if we can

get it to me, I could make something happen,” Sheets said. “I wanted to have a chance to put us ahead right there.”

While the father was a star pitcher at St. Amant High, ULMonroe and with the Milwaukee Brewers, the son is primarily a hitter He hit .435 with three home

MR. BASEBALL WINNERS

1996: Joe Lawrence, Barbe

1997: Chucky Son, Parkview Baptist

1998: Aaron Lowe Parkway

1999: Nick Bourgeois, Barbe

2000: Austin Nagle, Barbe

2001: Austin Nagle, Barbe/Jonathan Zeringue, E.D White

2002: Greg Smith,Alexandria

2003: Matt Greenwich, Parkview

Baptist

2004: Ben Soignier,W. Monroe

2005: Beau Jones, Destrehan

2006: Forrest Moore, Parkview

Baptist

2007: Carmen Angelini, Barbe

2008: Zack Von Rosenberg, Zachary

2009: Zack Von Rosenberg, Zachary

2010: Bryan Picou, Northlake

runs, 23 doubles and 57 RBIs with just three strikeouts. Miller Sheets established himself as a reliable ﬁelder at shortstop and a good pitcher He also embraced a leadoff role at midseason. Another playoff highlight for

SCOREBOARD

Christian

2011: Aaron Nola, Catholic-BR

2012: Gavin Cecchini, Barbe

2013: Jared Poche, Lutcher

2014: Chase Vallot, St.Thomas More

2015: Kale Breaux, Sulphur

2016: Nick Webre,Teurlings Catholic

2017: Jacob Pearson,West Monroe

2018: Cade Beloso, John Curtis

2019: Cameron Meeks, Sam

Houston

2020: Season canceled

2021: Jack Walker Barbe

2022: Ethan Frey, Rosepine

2023: Donovan LaSalle, Barbe

2024: William Schmidt, Catholic-BR

2025: Miller Sheets, Sterlington

Miller was his grand slam against French Settlement in Game 3 of the quarterﬁnals.

Sterlington’s title win was the school’s first since 2021. Miller Sheets’ older brother, Seaver Sheets, was a part of that state title team.

WTA-Internacional de Valencia Saturday At Club de Tenis Sporting Club de Tenis Valencia Valencia, Spain Surface: Red clay Seedings in parentheses Women’s Singles Semiﬁnals Louisa Chirico, United States, def. Hanne Vandewinkel,

Lap length: 2.52 miles (Car number in parentheses) 1. (88) Shane Van Gisbergen, Chevrolet, 93.904 mph.

2. (60) Ryan Preece, Ford, 93.839 3. (1) Ross Chastain, Chevrolet, 93.830.

4. (54) Ty Gibbs, Toyota, 93.757. 5. (71) Michael McDowell, Chevrolet, 93.704.

6. (5) Kyle Larson, Chevrolet, 93.694.

7. (34) Todd Gilliland, Ford, 93.657.

8. (16) AJ Allmendinger, Chevrolet, 93.655. 9. (22) Joey Logano, Ford, 93.628

10. (99) Daniel Suárez, Chevrolet, 93.616.

11. (8) Kyle Busch, Chevrolet, 93.593. 12. (9) Chase Elliott, Chevrolet, 93.569. 13. (21) Josh Berry, Ford, 93.519. 14. (43) Erik Jones, Toyota, 93.482. 15. (35) Riley Herbst, Toyota, 93.475.

16. (17) Chris Buescher, Ford, 93.470.

17. (7) Justin Haley, Chevrolet, 93.442.

18. (12) Ryan Blaney, Ford, 93.429.

19. (19) Chase Briscoe, Toyota, 93.419.

20. (2) Austin Cindric, Ford, 93.357.

21. (3) Austin Dillon, Chevrolet, 93.334.

22. (45) Tyler Reddick, Toyota, 93.331.

23. (77) Carson Hocevar, Chevrolet, 93.325.

24. (38) Zane Smith, Ford, 93.311.

25. (23) Bubba Wallace, Toyota, 93.250.

26. (41) Cole Custer, Ford, 93.248.

27. (24) William Byron, Chevrolet, 93.218. 28. (10) Ty Dillon, Chevrolet, 93.082

29. (48) Alex Bowman, Chevrolet, 93.073.

30. (6) Brad Keselowski, Ford, 92.971.

31. (20) Christopher Bell, Toyota, 92.958.

32. (42) John H. Nemechek, Toyota, 92.624.

33. (47) Ricky Stenhouse Jr, Chevrolet, 92.531.

34. (51) Cody Ware, Ford, 92.471.

35. (4) Noah Gragson, Ford, 92.272

36. (11) Ryan Truex, Toyota, 92.070

37. (78) Katherine Legge, Chevrolet, 91.256

Open Saturday At Tennis Club WeissenhofStuttgart, Germany Surface: Grass Seedings in parentheses Men’s Singles Semiﬁnals Taylor Fritz (2), United States, def. Felix Auger-Aliassime (4), Canada, 6-4, 7-6 (5). Alexander Zverev (1), Germany, def. Ben Shelton (3), United States, 7-6 (8), 7-6 (1).

Men’s Doubles Semiﬁnals Rajeev Ram and Alex Michelsen, United States, def. Taylor Fritz, United States, and Jiri Lehecka, Czechia, 7-6 (7), 6-7 (2), 11-9. Libema Open Saturday At Autotron Rosmalen Den Bosch, Netherlands Surface: Grass Seedings in parentheses

Men’s Singles Semiﬁnals Zizou Bergs, Belgium, def. Reilly Opelka, United States, 6-1, 6-4. Gabriel Diallo, Canada, def. Ugo Humbert (2), France, 6-3, 7-6 (4).

Women’s Singles Semiﬁnals Elise Mertens (3), Belgium, def. Ekaterina Alexandrova (2), Russia, 2-6, 7-6 (7), 6-4. Elena-Gabriela Ruse, Romania, def. Elisabetta Cocciaretto, Italy, 2-6, 6-4, 6-3. Men’s Doubles Championship Matthew Ebden and Jordan Thompson (3), Australia, def. Lloyd Glasspool and Julian Cash (2), Britain, 6-4, 3-6, 10-7.

Women’s Doubles

Championship Irina Khromacheva, Russia, and Fanny Stollar (2), Hungary, def. Nicole Melichar-Martinez, United States, and Liudmila Samsonova (3), Russia, 7-5, 6-3.

FILE PHOTO By KIRK MECHE

It’s past time for Pitts to deliver for Falcons

BY KEN SUGIURA

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. It’s all right there for Kyle Pitts. The Falcons tight end has seemingly every reason to ﬂourish when the season starts Sept. 7 against Tampa Bay There are productive wide receivers (Drake London and Darnell Mooney) who can draw attention away from him in the pass game. There is an elite running back (Bijan Robinson) who likewise will require defenses to commit to stopping him. There is a second-year quarterback (Michael Penix) whose progress in the offseason has delighted his coaches. Then there’s a coaching staff that recognizes Pitts’ sky-high ceiling and wants to make use of that ability And, not least, Pitts’ own inventory — a boatload of talent and incentive to earn a contract that can provide generational wealth. You can call it pressure or opportunity It could be both for the 24-year-old Pitts, who is not taking part in on-ﬁeld workouts during the team’s minicamp this week as he treats a foot injury

A pivotal time has arrived in his career, now going into its ﬁfth year In the ﬁnal year of his contract with the Falcons and free agency beckoning, if there were ever a season for him to maximize his ability, this is it.

Although last season would have been nice, too.

Pitts had struggled in 2023 as he was coming back from seasonending knee surgery in 2022 and played with a less capable quarterback in Desmond Ridder.

In 2024, Pitts had an accomplished quarterback in Kirk Cousins and an offensive coordinator in Zac Robinson eager to take advantage of his skills. Before last season, Cousins went so far as to call him “our best player.” Robinson assured everyone that Pitts would have a large role in the offense.

“His speed, how fast he can play

with his size and the things that he can do in the pass game and in the run game is going to be a huge value for us,” Robinson said before the season.

Ultimately, Pitts caught 47 passes for 602 yards and four touchdowns, fewer receptions and yards than he produced in the season before The reception total was ﬁfth highest on the team and tied for 22nd among NFL tight ends, according to Sports Reference.

Tight end Charlie Woerner gave the Falcons much better run blocking than Pitts and, in fact, played more offensive snaps than Pitts in ﬁve of the team’s ﬁnal six games. With his disappointing play, Pitts played a role in the Falcons’ extending their playoff drought to seven seasons. So much for huge value.

On Tuesday, on the Falcons’ ﬁrst day of minicamp, I asked coach Raheem Morris if anything in particular held Pitts back last season

“No ” he said. “It’s just a matter of going out there and doing it.”

There was more to the response, but those 12 words spoke loudly, particularly considering two of Morris’ patterns.

In dealing with media, he is quite adept at answering a question at length without really addressing the substance of it. Also Morris tends to lean to the positive when speaking about his players.

To that end, Morris left no uncertainty about his view of Pitts’

2024

Morris said something else interesting about Pitts on Tuesday: that there is “pressure that lives on his chest” from the expectations placed on him for being the No. 4 pick in the 2021 draft, the earliest a tight end has been selected.

Morris presumably wouldn’t have brought it up if it weren’t the case. It was a reminder that

Pitts is an actual human, however unlike the rest of us he might appear Regardless, the Falcons haven’t given up on him, not that they have a lot of choice.

He remains their best passcatching tight end and, after spending a top-ﬁve draft pick on him, they’d like to get more from their investment. There has been trade chatter but there’s little reason to think he’s going anywhere.

Morris remains hopeful that Pitts will improve through his connection with Penix in the quarterback’s second season. Pitts was the target for what arguably was Penix’s biggest moment last season — a 13-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter against Washington when the Falcons faced fourth-and-goal with less than 90 seconds remaining while trailing 24-17.

“(Pitts) has got very high standards for himself, and I feel really good about those two working together and absolutely getting a better result,” Morris said.

The potential is so obvious and tantalizing.

“He’s super talented,” Morris said. “That’s always going to be the thing that gives you hope for Kyle, right?”

Falcons fans know all about it, namely the size/speed/strength combination that makes him such a problem to cover and tackle after the catch.

It was on full display when Pitts, teaming with the great Matt Ryan, made the Pro Bowl as a rookie in 2021. The ﬂashes have popped far less frequently since.

“I keep on saying that he’s a freaking unicorn,” London said.

“I don’t know somebody who’s (6-foot-6, 250 pounds), fricking running like that. And then, too, he has great, great route skills, great hands and, too, he blocks.

Just seeing him out there doing his thing for the last three years is really, really cool, and I think we’re excited for this year, for sure.”

Bowman battling back pain but will still race in Mexico

BY JENNA FRYER AP auto racing driver

driving. Bowman said his hit registered 50 G-force.

“I don’t know if on paper that’s the biggest (hit) I’ve ever taken, but it’s the most painful one I’ve ever taken for sure,” Bowman said Saturday “Even compared to when I broke my back, it’s way more pain than that was.” Bowman last Sunday slammed hard into the wall at Michigan in a head-on impact at approximately 150 mph The hit was so ﬁerce that it lifted the rear wheels in the air

Although nothing was broken, he has severe lower back pain on his right side that shoots into his leg.

Rose ﬁnishes fourth in last run with LSU track

BY TOYLOY BROWN III Staff writer

LSU middle-distance star Michaela Rose likes to get in front quickly and more often than not remains first as she staves off foes. In the women’s 800-meter final of the NCAA outdoor track and field championships in Eugene, Oregon, Rose tried to stick to her blueprint. She led for the majority of the race Saturday, but she wasn’t able to maintain in the end, finishing fourth with a time of 1 minute, 59.47 seconds.

PROVIDED PHOTO By KRISTEN yOUNG LSU’s Michaela Rose leads the way in the 800-meter run at the Bryan Clay Invitational on April 14, 2023, in Azusa, Calif. Rose closed her LSU career with a fourth place in the 800 at the NCAA outdoor championships.

know if he’d be able to get in the car He was still sore after two days of practice at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez, but it was after he got out of his No. 48 Chevrolet and not while he was

The 32-year-old kidded he’s been a bit of a “crash dummy” of late: Bowman missed ﬁve races in 2022 with a concussion suffered at Texas, and he broke his back in a 2023 sprint car crash that led Rick Hendrick to ban him from further extracurricular racing.

Although he’s ranked 13th in the Cup Series standings, he didn’t want to miss a race considering the recent slump Bowman is going through. He has ﬁnished 27th

or worse in seven of the past nine races and has five finishes of 35th or worse. Even though Bowman made it to Mexico City and says he feels fit enough inside the car Anthony Alfredo is on standby in case Bowman can’t complete Sunday’s race on the 15-turn, 2.42-mile layout. Alfredo, a full-time driver in the Xfinity Series, does simulator work for Hendrick Motorsports He has 42 starts in the Cup Series, including one start earlier this year at Talladega Superspeedway Bowman, who qualified 29th, hopes to be able to complete the race. “The goal is to get all the laps in and go from there,” Bowman said “It hasn’t been a fun week at all. Wednesday was probably the worst day but we’re here and ready to go. It’s all in the right side of my lower back and then through my lower right leg. Everything is really tight. It’s all muscular Definitely a lot of pain.”

Immediately after defeat, she approached the winner — Stanford’s Roisin Willis, who broke Rose’s 2-day-old meet record time with a 1:58.13 mark — and hugged her But Rose a 10-time All-American and six-time Southeastern Conference champion, couldn’t end her illustrious college career in storybook fashion. The brightest spot for the LSU women’s track and field team was sophomore Tima Godbless, who took home the bronze in the 100 final. Her 11.183 time was 0.006 seconds faster than the runner in fourth. Junior Ella Onojuvwevwo competed in the 400 final and was fourth with a time 50.57. She was only 0.06 seconds slower than the third-place finisher In the discus, LSU freshman Princesse Hyman threw a personal-best 185 feet and 4 inches, finishing 11th. In the women’s 4x100 relay

SAINTS

Continued from page 1C

and the early reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Even the new sports science staff helmed by Ted Rath has earned praise from the team.

Arm talent isn’t a problem: The Saints will have a new starting quarterback in 2025 — which, frankly, is a big reason expectations are lower league wide. We’ve spent plenty of time going through the lack of experience at the position, but here’s a quick refresher: The four quarterbacks have started a total of seven games, winning zero, with a combined ﬁve touchdown passes and six interceptions.

They’re not proven, but based on what we saw this summer, whoever wins the competition won’t lack for throwing talent.

There’s not a lot to take away from 7-on-7 drills, but pure throwing ability is one of the few things that is translatable, and both rookie Tyler Shough and 2024 ﬁfth-rounder Spencer Rattler have displayed some tantalizing.

Shough’s arm strength has popped several times when he’s made tough throws to the sideline that require a quarterback to drive the ball and beat the defender to the spot Those are some of the most difﬁcult plays for NFL quarterbacks to make, and if he wins the job, Moore should feel comfortable letting his rookie attack the entire ﬁeld.

Rattler’s strong suits as a thrower look different than Shough’s, but they’re still impressive. He’s shown a willingness to rip the ball over the middle of the ﬁeld while also being able to layer secondlevel throws.

Both still need to show whether they can navigate traffic in the pocket and read NFL defenses that game plan against their strengths, but they passed the ﬁrst test.

What we think we’ve learned

A two-man race at QB: Shortly after Derek Carr announced his retirement, Moore stood behind a microphone and announced his intentions to have his three young quarterbacks compete for the starting job in training camp, including third-year player Jake Haener

Maybe that is still in the cards, but an oblique injury prevented Haener from competing in organized team activities. He was back on the ﬁeld for minicamp, and the Saints certainly could have been forcing him to take it easy by limiting his reps to position drills.

But this felt like a two-man competition between Shough and Rattler from the jump, and nothing that has happened since has changed that. Even when Haener is ready to fully compete, he feels well behind the other two.

That said, this does feel like a legitimate competition. Shough would seem to have the edge simply because he was drafted 40th overall by this coaching staff, but Rattler has shown some nice traits in the limited work the quarterbacks have done so far.

the Tigers ﬁnished eighth with a time of 43.32. The team members were junior Machaeda Linton, freshman Nasya Williams, sophomore Aniyah Bigam and Godbless. The LSU women’s track and ﬁeld

watches a play from the offensive line during rookie minicamp on May 10 at the team’s indoor practice facility

To be determined

Will the trenches be better?: New Orleans invested in its offensive and defensive fronts this offseason, using two of its top three picks on linemen (LT Kelvin Banks at No. 9, DL Vernon Broughton at No. 71), trading for nose tackle Davon Godchaux and committing big money to bring back edge rusher Chase Young.

Will that be enough to turn things around in 2025? It’s way too soon to tell.

There were zero competitive periods pitting the offensive and defensive lines against each other, and Moore has reiterated throughout the summer that it is hard to get a read on where the lines are without full contact.

The Saints should be improved on both sides of the ball. Right tackle Taliese Fuaga and left guard Trevor Penning are probably at their more natural positions, and if Banks hits, the Saints should improve 1-5 on the offensive line. Godchaux should fortify a defensive interior that was awful against the run last year, and Young and Carl Granderson might unlock new production as stand-up rushers in defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s scheme. Time will tell whether it will improve in practice. Additional pieces?: The Saints have approximately $29 million in cap space. That number will dip slightly when Shough signs his rookie contract, but it still gives New Orleans plenty of room to operate if it wants to make veteran additions. The team is interested in upgrading parts of its roster, as evidenced by some of the visits they’ve recently set up with free agents such as receiver Gabe Davis and corner Asante Samuel. They just signed running back Cam Akers on Friday There are some big names on the free-agent market, though the Saints’ chances of landing someone like receiver Keenan Allen or pass rusher Za’Darius Smith probably aren’t great if they’re competing against a team that is seen as a legitimate Super Bowl contender It seems more likely the Saints will try and ﬁnd a buy-low player or two to give them a chance to reset their market next year without eating into too much of the cap space the Saints could roll into 2026.

TheAtlanta Journal-Constitution (TNS)

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By BRyNN ANDERSON Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts runs past Carolina Panthers safety Xavier Woods on Jan. 5 in Atlanta.

UCLA’s fast starttoo much forMurraySt.

BY ERIC OLSON AP sportswriter

OMAHA, Neb.— Roman Martin andAJSalgado drove in two runs apiece tolead UCLA to a6-4 victoryover aMurray State teammaking its College World Series debut Saturday. The Bruins, in the CWS forthe ﬁrst time since they won the championshipin2013, built a6-0 lead before theRacersbegan chipping away at it in the middleinnings. UCLA closer Easton Hawk pitched a1-2-3 ninth to secure the Bruins’ fourth straight wininanOmaha opener

“It’sone game in afour-team bracket,” UCLA coachJohn Savagesaid. “Yeah, you want to win theﬁrst game, no question about it. But we’ve got along, long ways to go.” UCLA (48-16) will play Monday night against No. 6LSU.

The Missouri Valley Conference’sRacers (44-16),onlythe fourth No. 4regional seed since 1999 to advance to the CWS, will try to keep their ﬁrst appearance goingwhen

they play Arkansas in an elimination game Monday. IanMay (8-3),the second of ﬁve relieverswho followedstarter Michael Barnett, pitched an inning to earn the win.

The Bruins were in full control earlyand improved to 27-1 when scoring ﬁrst. They loaded the bases with no outsinthe ﬁrst inning against Nic Schutte (8-5). He gave up a hitand issued three walks before he settled down and got back-to-back strikeouts and a groundouttokeep it 1-0.

Dean West singled in another run in the second, and theBruins addedfourmorein the fourth on asafety squeeze bunt, base hit andSalgado’stwo-run double.

“Murray State is very competitive,” Savagesaid. “Weknew when we put up afour in thefourth, theyprobably wouldn’tblink an eye, and they didn’t. They kept battling back. It wasn’t an easyvictory.Wepitched outofsome problems today.”

Murray State ended the UCLA pitching staff’s streak of 202/3 scoreless innings when

aslidingJonathan Hogart beat Salgado’s throw to theplateonCarson Garner’sdrive into rightﬁeldinthe ﬁfth.Before that,the Bruins hadn’tallowed arun sincethe second inning of their super regional opener against Texas-San Antonio.

TheRacers addeda run in the sixth and two moreinthe eighthafter putting runners on second andthird with no outs Consecutive RBI groundoutspulledthem

LSU baseball playerscelebrate in the outﬁeld as theTigers defeated the Arkansas Razorbacks

in Omaha, Neb

RABALAIS

Continued from page1C

winning the opener is huge. Twenty-two of the past 25 CWS championshavewon their opener.All seven of LSU’snational champions have won their first game It isn’taguarantee, butitisagreat start. And even in adouble-elimination format, you must have agreat start The Tigers couldn’thave asked fora much better start in this one. After a scoreless first inning with each team’sace —LSU’s Kade Anderson and Arkansas’ Zach Root —settling in, thegame took a totally unexpected left turn in the second. LSU chased Root —apitcher Johnson still lamentsabout not signing— before the second inning was over.All it took was apair of one-out walksdrawn by Luis Hernandez and Derek Curiel, acunning bunt single up the third-base line by Daniel Dickinson that loaded thebases, an RBI singlebyChris Stanfield toscore

LSU

Continued from page1C

The victory means LSU willface UCLA on Monday in the winner’sbracket. First pitch is set for 6p.m. and will be available to watch on ESPN. Arkansas will face Murray State at 1p.m. on thesameday in the loser’sbracket. Anderson struggledwithhis command early on with two walks in the first twoinnings, but he locked in after that. The future first-roundMLB pick recorded six strikeouts over the next fiveinnings and didn’t walk another batter

His stuff looked crisp even as the game wore on. He tossed aknee-buckling83mph curveball to end the ﬁfth inning, and he recorded hisﬁnal out on adiving changeup to end theseventh.

Anderson exited after surrendering a leadoffsingle in theeighth inning on his 100th pitch. He allowed three hits and one earned run, on aReese Robinett solo home run in the sixth inning, in seven innings. He struck outseven andwalkedtwo whilebecoming the nation’sleader in strikeouts this season.

Replacing Anderson was redshirt sophomore Chase Shores, amember of the 2023 national championshipteam who wasunavailable by the time the Tigers reached Omaha after undergoing Tommy John surgery Shores’ first pitch was wild, allowing the runner to reach scoring position. He bounced back with two strikeoutsand a ﬂy out to center ﬁeld to end the inning and maintain LSU’s4-1 lead. Freshman right-hander Casan Evans

Hernandez, ahit by pitch toMichael Braswell that scored Curiel and aﬁelder’s choice to short by Josh Pearson that brought home Dickinson. Suddenly,itwas 3-0 Tigers and Root was done. It was quite seriously thefrying pan to the ﬁre for the LSU lineup, though, as Arkansas coach Dave VanHorn went to top reliever Gabe Gaeckle. Make that ice chest to thewalk-in freezer Gaecklehandcuffed LSU, strikingout 10 over six innings (both season highs) and keeping Arkansas in thegame. The Razorbacks really looked liketheyhad life when Reese Robinett, who hadfour home runs in two seasons coming in, parked anAndersonoffering into the stands over the LSU bullpeninright to cut the Tigers’ lead to 3-1 in the sixth. But that’sasclose as Arkansaswould get. In afreshman versus freshman matchup, Curiel knocked an 0-2 RBI single to left off Arkansasreliever Cole Gibler to score Steven Milam from second. The throwfrom Charles Davalan might have gottenMilam at home plate, but Gibler in-

took theninth inning and tossed a scoreless frame to close out the game.

LSU grabbed an early advantage in the second inning, scoring three runs on two hits, two walks and ahit batter Arkansasleft-handedstarter Zach Root struck outSteven Milam to lead off the second, then walked the next two batters and surrendereda base-hitbunttojuniorDaniel Dickinson to load the bases for junior Chris Stanﬁeld.

In hisfirst appearance in Omaha, Stanfieldpoked asingle intoleft field on the third pitch he saw, driving in arun to give LSU a1-0 lead. Senior Michael Braswell the No. 9hitter —then was hit by apitch to force in another runbefore the Tigers took a3-0 lead after senior Josh Pearson reachedona fielder’schoice. Root’s evening was done after Pearson’s ground ball. The Arkansas ace lastedjust 12/3 innings before exiting for right-hander GabeGaeckle. In Root’sstartagainst LSUonMay 9in Alex Box Stadium, he lasted sixinnings and allowedjust two earned runs on five hits. Gaeckle forced agrounder to escapethe secondinning before shutting down theTigers forthe rest of his outing. Thesophomore tossed six innings, striking out10 andallowingjustthree hits before getting lifted with two outs in the eighth inning. He exited the game with arunner on second and two outs for left-hander Cole Gibler,who entered to face freshman Derek Curiel, aleft-handed hitter.Curiel shot an 0-2singleintoleftfieldtoscore sophomore Milam from second base and give the Tigers a4-1 advantage Milam was the only Tiger on Saturday with multiple hits, but theTigers’ topthree

explicably cut the ball off, leaving catcher Ryder Helfrick to put bothhands to his head in a“What are you doing?” move.

It was agreat piece of hitting by Curiel, who earlier coaxed two walks out of Root andGaeckle.

“My man,” Johnson said of Curiel,“was born to hit.”

Johnson pulled Anderson after he threw his 100thpitch in the eighth inning, bringing in Chase Shores. All he did wasthrow 99 to 101 mph gas at the Razorbacks, turning them into cochon de lait.Then freshman Casan Evans came on in the ninth. He gave up aleadoff single to Davalan, theﬁfth time an Arkansas leadoff man reached base. Butheonly got as faras second as Evans got astrikeout and apair of grounders to end it.

This win didn’tend anything forLSU There is still along road between the Tigers and an eighthCWS championship. Butlet’sspeak plainly: LSUhad to win this one. Simply had to win.And now that theTigers have, the possibilities are wide open.

batters combined to go 0for 13 with eight strikeouts. The two teams combined for only 10 hitswhile striking out 26 total times.

within 6-4.

“It’sOmaha.You expect trouble,” Savage said. “If you’re not expecting trouble, you’ll be outofhereprettyquick.Soyou better be able to pitch with traffic and pitch out of problems. That’sthe nature of championship baseball.”

Hawkwent to the mound in the ninth with atwo-run lead andfacing theheart of theorder.Hestruck out Dustin Mercer,got Garner to ground out and fanned Dom Decker to earn his eighth save.

“So happy these guys get to experience this andplayonthisstage and show the wholecountry that they belong,” Racers coach Dan Skirka said. “Obviously,we didn’tcome out victorious, but Icouldn’tbe more proudofthe ﬁght they showed. They jumped on us earlyand we weren’tableto get that knock.

“But Inever hada doubtthatthese guys were going to keep fighting, scrapping, clawing and giving us achance in the end. That’sexactly what they did.”

BY SCOTT RABALAIS Staff writer

OMAHA, Neb. Chris Stanﬁeld and the LSU Tigers began theirpursuitofaCollege World Seriestrophy Saturday against Arkansas, but before that atrophy of another kind cametohim.

The LSUcenter ﬁelder has been named the inauguralwinnerofthe Tony Gwynn Trophy in avote of National College Baseball Writers Association members,college baseball coaches and other mediamembers.

The award honors players whoare active in community serviceaswellasexcelling on the ﬁeld and in the classroom.

“It’sanincredible accomplishment,” Stanﬁeld said Friday after LSU’slast preCWS practice. “I’m very honored. I’m just thankful for the organizations that nominated me andthankful to be in this position.”

Atransfer thisyear to LSU after two seasons at Auburn, the Tallahassee, Florida, native donates $100 to the Miracle League of Baton Rouge every time he gets an extra-base hitorstolen base through his “Be The 1” campaign.

“It’ssomething my parents instilledin me,” Stanfield said. “I’ve been working with the Miracle League since middle school. Just giving back, making an impact, because it’salways bigger than me.”

Stanﬁeld cameinto the CWS hitting .309 with one home run, 15 doubles, two triples and ﬁve stolen bases.

Theaward is named for HallofFamer Tony Gwynn, a15-timeall-star who won a National League record eight batting titles with the San Diego Padres. He played and later coached at San Diego State and died in 2014 after along bout with cancer For more LSUsports updates,signup forour newsletter at theadvocate.com/ lsunewsletter

STAFF PHOTO By HILARy SCHEINUK

4-1 on SaturdayatCharles Schwab Field

OUTDOORS

Swollfestrodeo abig hit

Early-summer fishingevent sees hordes of anglers, topoffshoreaction

BY JOE MACALUSO Contributing writer

If ﬁshing is the judge, then last weekend’s27th annual Swollfest Rodeo was ahuge success.

Then, if you measuresuccess by the numbers of anglers entered, this early-summer ﬁshingcompetition was an off-the-charts hit.

Notebook

“I don’tknow where tostart,” rodeo organizer NickRauber said of the Grand Isle event. “Wehad phenomenal weather,we had more than athousand entries and had a waiting list of volunteers.

“It all came together so well. It was adream of atournament.” Fish?

Well, Beau Grafton’s 350-pound swordfish brokea recordfor the “swollest” —the heaviest fish weighed in the rodeo’shistory Right behind that was Casey Leblanc’s 197-pound yellowfintuna, a massive yellowfin for this time of year Snapper also didn’tdisappoint The red snapper categorywas led by the25-poundercaught by Jay Gomez Larry Doiron topped the mangrove snapper category witha 9.72-pounder

“Fishing offshore wasspectacular.Lots of big fish, butinshore ﬁshermen struggled to catch lots of ﬁsh,” Rauber said.

Still, Roland Dugas’ 5.81-pound speckled trout topped that category.The number of ﬁsh caught inshore was down as high winds and dirty water were an issue.

“What was even more special were the numbers of kids weighing fish and around the weighstation,” Rauber said. “A couple of years ago we teamed withthe Salty Kids Rodeo, and the youngsters showed up. The adults around the (Grand Isle) marina said our rodeo is what fishing is all about because there were so many kids carryingfish to the scales.”

Ryan Perry organized Salty Kids several years ago and sawthe opportunity to blendthe tworodeos into the mostwell-attendedand biggest fundraiser of the summertime ﬁshing events on theLouisiana coast.

“Wehad the best year ever with our scholarships. We don’thave all thetotals in yet, but we will meet our goals of donating to the many charities,” Rauber said.

Chief among the charities is Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital, which will receive another $250,000 from this event.

“Ofcourse, we couldn’t do this without the volunteers and the volunteer cooks,” Rauber said. “Wetook alook at it all and we estimated it takes 3,500 hours to make Swollfest happen every year.And that falls squarelyonthe shoulders of Tricia Hollis.Swollfest can’t be done without her.” Swollfest 2026? Mark your calendars for June 10-13next year

At Fourchon

Last weekend marked the 21st yearfor the CatholicHigh Alumni Rodeo, acompetitivetwo days of ﬁshing for alumni and friends of theBaton Rouge school Solid attendance boosted bragging rights among this group, and none more so thanthe numberof cobia brought to the scales.

TUESDAY LAFAYETTE KAYAKFISHING CLUB

MEETING: 6p.m., Pack &Paddle, 601 E. Pinhook, Lafayette. Call (337) 232-5854. Website: lafayettekayakﬁshing.com

WEDNESDAY

FLIES &FLIGHTS: 7p.m., RallyCap Brewing, 11212 PennywoodAvenue, Baton Rouge. Flytying. Open to public. Sparetools, materials for novices. Email Chris Williams:thefatﬁngeredﬂytyer@gmail.com

THURSDAY

ACADIANA FLYRODDERS PROGRAM: 6p.m., Pack &Paddle, 601E Pinhook, Lafayette. Open to public Email Darin Lee: cbrsandcdc@gmail. com. Website: acadianaﬂyrodders org.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Beau Grafton, left, of Thibodaux and acrewmember from his boat‘Beautox’ stand readytoweigh agiant swordfish theycaught during last weekend’sSwollfest Rodeo in Grand isle. Tippingthe scales at 350.8 pounds, the fish is the heaviest weighed in the 27 years of this summertime rodeo on the Louisiana coast that has rapidly becomeone of the state’sbiggest.

Yes, cobia (some saylemon ﬁsh) stolethe show.AJune catch of cobia pushing 60 pounds defies patterns outlinedinﬁshing books, which, for decades, told us cobia migrate into the western Gulf of Mexicofromeastern waters.

That’s likely stilltrue, butfor the past dozen or so years, theeyeball test is there is aresident population of cobia livingand breeding in Louisiana’s offshore waters

Years ago, it was arare ﬁnd to have acobia“in the box” in offshore trips in lateMay into June, but now this species, which,by the way, providesexcellent tablefare, hasbeen showing up on rodeo leaderboardsand in ice chests well before the summer solstice fora number ofyears.

Snappercount

ThroughJune1,the latest reporting date,the recreational red snapper catch hit251,911 pounds.

That’s28.2% of ourstate’s 894,955-pound annual allocation

It means recreational anglers caught 67,088 pounds around the Memorial Day holiday, thelast week accounted for in theJune 1 report.

Life jackets

TheSea TowFoundation awarded Wildlife andFisheries’ enforce-

FRIDAY-SATURDAY BROTHER MARTIN FISHING RODEO &SUMMER FEST: Fishing begins sunriseJune 20,weigh-in 4-5:30 p.m. June 21, Brother Martin High campus, 4401 Elysian Fields Avenue, NewOrleans. All Louisiana waters &launch sites. Call Advancement Ofﬁce (504) 284-6700. Website: brothermartin.com/alumni/ﬁshingrodeo

ONGOING

CCASTATEWIDE TOURNAMENT & ANGLERS’ RODEO/S.T.A.R.: Summerlong ﬁshing contestthrough Sept. 1. Multiple species categories. CCA membership required. Website: ccalouisiana.com

AROUND THECORNER

JUNE 23—REDSTICK FLYFISHERS

FLYTYING: 7p.m., Orvis Shop, 7601 Bluebonnet Blvd.Open to public.

ment divisionaspot in its Life jacket loaner program, and thedivision established threelife-jacket loaner locations across the state.

The nearest is Hill TopMarina on theDiversionCanal near Maurepas.

The others are Cypress Bend Park on ToledoBend near Many and at 3636 West Prien Lake Road on Calcasieu Lake in Lake Charles. The idea is to provide life jackets to boaters before they getonthe water or if theyrealize theydon’t have enough personal ﬂotation devices for all aboard their boat It’saloaner program, so please return thelife jacket after the trip on the water.There is no fee.

Regulations are that each boat “must have aproperlyﬁtted U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD readilyavailable forall occupantson board anyvessel in Louisiana.” Anyone age 16 and younger must weara “a properly fitted PFD” while underway on avessel less than 26 feet long. In the years 2020-24, 96 folks died in boating accidents, and 78 of those were notwearing life jackets.

On another note, Wildlife and Fisheriesreported afatal boating victim from aJune 8incident in Jefferson Davis Parish.

It appears Lake Charles resident DannyHarrison,71, was operating a

CALENDAR

Hands-on clinic covering basics of ﬂy tying. Materials and tools provided. Website: rsff.org

JUNE 26—ACADIANA BUGS&BREWS: 6p.m., Pack &Paddle, 601 E. Pinhook,Lafayette. Open to the public. Email Flip Siragusa: redﬁsh452@ gmail.com. Website: www.packpaddle.com

JUNE 26-29—MLF BASS PRO TOUR: Potomac River, Marbury,Maryland. Website: MajorLeagueFishing.com JUNE 28—FLYFISHING 101: 9-11 a. m. Orvis Shop, Bluebonnet Boulevard, Baton Rouge. Feefree. Basics of casting, rigging,ﬂyselection. Equipmentfurnished. All ages, adults to accompany15-and-younger. Preregistration required. Call Shop (225) 757-7286.Website: orvis.com/ batonrouge

JUNE 29—SOUTH LOUISIANA HIGHPOWER CLUB MATCH: 8:30 a.m. Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Range, St

from the Grand Isle Marina with categories,top-three anglers and weight of catchinpounds: OverallSwollest (heaviest ﬁsh): 1, Beau Grafton, 350.8 pounds (swordﬁsh). 2, Patrick Abry,220.4

16-foot boat poweredbya hand tiller-steered 40-horsepower outboard motor.Harrison,wearing a life jacket, was thrown from his boat and, according to the report, “was fatally struck by an engine prop while he was in the water,” when theunmanned boat ranin circlesand Harrison couldn’t dodge thepropeller

Thesecondregulationabout tiller-steering outboards is the operator must have akill-switch lanyard attached to his/her person while underway.Whenthe lanyard is pulled, it triggers aswitch on the engine that kills the motor Goingoutdoors

In additiontosunscreen,think about protection foryoungsters.

TriedchildrenonNatural Patch Companyproducts last summer and its Buzz Patch and Sunny Patch work.

The Buzz is apatch youstick on akid’sclothing notonskin. Use acouple, one on top and one on shortsand thesepatches do repel mosquitoes. There are 40 patches in each pouch. The Sunny Patch is placed on theskin, thenyou apply sunscreen.

Following instructions, the patchwilllet youknowwhento reapplysunscreen on your younger folks.

Landry Road, Gonzales. CMPGSSM, NRA match rifle or service rifle 200-yard/50-roundsmatch course &Prone matches. Fee$15 members, $20 nonmembers, $5 juniors $25 annual club (firstmatch free) &Civilian Marksmanship Program membership (allows purchases from CMP). Call (337) 380-8120. Email MikeBurke:SouthLaHighPower@ hotmail.com

FISHING/SHRIMPING

SHRIMP: Spring inshoreseasonand outside watersopen statewide. Closed in federal watersoff the Texascoast. OPEN RECREATIONAL SEASONS: Red snapper, ﬂounder;lane, blackﬁn, queen and silk snappers &wenchmen among othersnapper species; all groupersexcept closed for goliath &Nassau groupersinstate/ federal waters.

2, Rryan Leblanc,14.95. 3, MarcusValenciano, 9.78. Mangrovesnapper: 1, Larry Doiron II, 9.72. 2, George Cox, 9.19. 3, Angela Doiron, 8.88.

3, Joe Thomassie, 17.09. Mangrovesnapper: 1, Sawyer Ditch, 3.94. 2, Ditch, 3.38. 3, Ditch, 2.88. Cobia: 1, Sawyer Ditch, 21.12. 2, Colton Maier, 17.84. Tuna: 1, Preston Morgan, 57.4. 2, Carter Aguillard,56.6. 3, Dev Delahoussaye, 55.2. Dorado: 1, Aubrey Perry,3.33. 2, Waylon Bagwell, 2.95. 3, Hudson Aicklen, 2.44. Non-warsawgrouper: 1, Fischer Gosserand, 38.2. 2, Gosserand, 25.69. 3, Wyatt Kent, 25.22. No entries in Grouper. KAYAKDIVISION Speckled Trout: 1, PatCortez, 2.12. 2, ElwardCortez, 2.11. 3, Davie Breaux 2.09. 4, Edward Hornsby, 1.8. 5, Hornsby, 1.77. Redfish: 1, TracyBourgeois, 7.37. 2, Derrick Snell, 7.33. 3, Snell, 6.78. 4, Barry Bourgeois, 6.33. 5, Edward Hornsby, 6.26. Flounder: 1, TracyBourgeois, 1.45. 2, Bourgeois, 1.33. 3, Edward Hornsby, 1.32. 4, Derrick Snell, 1.22. 5, Snell, 1.18. Catholic HighAlumniRodeo PORTFOURCHON Topthree places in the 21st annual Catholic High Alumni FishingRodeo. All weights in pounds: ADULTDIVISION Cobia: 1, ButchRea,47.35 pounds.2 Matt Binford, 45.45. 3, Binford, 39.22. Dolphin: 1, Travis Cusimano, 15.9. 2, Ethan Fourrier,7.27. 3, Jax Ott, 6.57. Flounder: 1, Ed Sexton, 2.12. 2, Chris Landry,1.52. 3, Derek Bouziga, 1.15. Grouper: 1, Drew Landry,60.61. 2, Jim McDowell, 29.27. 3, Jonathan Fourrier, 24.19. Mangrovesnapper: 1, Nicholas Raetzsch, 8.26. 2, Thomas Enquist,8.0. 3, Enquist,7.94. RedSnapper: 1, BenLeblanc,26.08. 2, Reel Yeux,25.02. 3, Reel Yeux,24.15. Redfish: 1, Derek Bouziga, 8.4. 2, Bouziga, 8.26. 3, Cody Davenport, 7.92. Sheepshead: 1, LeeBrowning, 3.74. 2, David Alello, 3.72. 3, Donald Schexnayder, 3.58. Speckled trout: 1, Roland Dugas, 5.84. 2, Kevin Bankston, 4.72. 3, Donald Schexnayder, 4.39. Blackfintuna: 1, Travis Cusimano, 20.78. 2, Will Himmel, 18.03. 3, Luis Rodrigue,8.78. Yellowfin tuna: 1, Reel Yeux,50.55. 2, Travis Cusimano, 47.32. 3, Brennan Russo, 42.4. No entries in Wahoo. YOUTH DIVISION Dolphin: Sutton Fourrier,2.18. Redsnapper: Sutton Fourrier,12.02. Mangrovesnapper: Sutton Fourrier, 8.0. Blackfintuna: Luis Rodrigue,8.78. Yellowfin

CLOSED SEASONS: Gray triggerﬁsh, greater amberjack, blueﬁn tuna and gag, goliath& Nassau groupersin state/federal waters.

LDWF UPDATES

CLOSED: Woodworth shooting range through June 22 (berm maintenance); South Farm/Sherburne WMA (flooding); Pearl RiverWMA (Old U.S. 11 gate &shooting range; flooding); Hope Canal Road/boat launch (MaurepasSwamp WMA, levee construction);roads/trails,RichardYancey WMA (except Sunk,Shell, Yakey, Wycoff &Silver Lakes roads, flooding); GrassyLakeWMA all roads & trails (flooding), except South Bayou Natchitoches Road is open

DRAWDOWNS: underway on Saline &Kepler lakes. REOPENED: South Farm (Sherburne WMA). EMAIL: jmacaluso@theadvocate.com

Thunder embraces adversity, ties up NBA Finals

BY TIM REYNOLDS AP basketball writer

OKLAHOMA CITY The book is called

“The Obstacle Is the Way.” It’s a gift that Oklahoma City coach Mark Daigneault gave to Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein during a trying time this season, knowing the voracious reader would ﬁgure out the meaning.

Message delivered.

“I read it and remembered that everything happens for a reason,” Hartenstein said “And after that, everything worked out great.”

Such has been the story of the Thunder’s season. Such was the story of Game 4 of the NBA Finals.

Faced with the biggest challenge of their season — a 10-point deﬁcit in the second half, staring at a very real chance of the Indiana Pacers grabbing a 3-1 lead in the title round the Thunder, once again, came away saying everything worked out great.

Led by a dazzling and frantic finish from the reigning MVP and scoring champion Shai GilgeousAlexander — who had 15 of his 35 points in the final five minutes — the Thunder rallied in the fourth quarter to beat Indiana 111-104 on Friday night. The series is now tied 2-2, heading back to Oklahoma City for Game 5 on Monday night,

ASSOCAITED PRESS PHOTO By MICHAEL CONROy Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander drives as Indiana Pacers forward Aaron Nesmith defends during the second half of Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Friday in Indianapolis.

and it’s the Thunder who has homecourt advantage again.

“That was an uphill game against a great team,” Daigneault said after Game 4 in Indianapolis. “This is one of the best teams in the league in the last couple months, since All-Star break

Clark returns as Fever hands Liberty ﬁrst loss

Staff report

Caitlin Clark is back.

The WNBA’s brightest young star returned Saturday afternoon against the New York Liberty after missing five games with a quad injury and lit up the reigning WNBA champions in the Fever’s 102-88 victory at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. Clark’s 32 points were enough to overcome Sabrina Ionescu’s 34 and hand the Liberty (9-1) its first loss of the season. Saturday was Clark’s first game since May 24 and she didn’t miss a beat. The second-year phenom torched the Liberty with seven 3-pointers, which tied her careerhigh. With all eyes inside Gainbridge Fieldhouse — and across the country on the national telecast on Clark, fans enjoyed a spectacular performance by the ex-Iowa Hawkeyes star from the opening tip.

She finished with 17 points in the first quarter. Nine of them were scored in a span of 45 seconds on three deep treys that left the Liberty flustered. The first was fired just two seconds into the 24-second shot clock 33 feet away over Marine Johannes Twenty seconds later she made a 27-footer look easy with Natasha Cloud failing to stay high enough on Damiris Dantas’ screen. The third 3-pointer took a bit more work. Johannes with the first 3-pointer fresh in her mind — rightfully pressed up on Clark while working through a screen. Clark — already one of the smartest young players in the game — recognized Johannes overcommitting and crossed her over on the perimeter What followed was a 31-footer that everyone in the arena knew was going in. Despite the barrage, the Liberty managed to lead, 26-24, at the end of the first quarter The onslaught continued in the second, though, and even Breanna Stewart had to laugh about it. Stewart and Clark exchanged laughs after Clark drained a 3-pointer over the all-world defender at the 5:26 mark. It contributed to 25 points by halftime on 9-of-14 shooting (6-

WNBA ROUNDUP

of-10 shooting from 3).

Ionescu, though, attempted to keep her team close as she totaled 17 points and three assists by halftime. She worked to pick up the load with star Jonquel Jones out with a right ankle injury Jones’ absence compounded the void left with Leonie Fiebich overseas with Team Germany.

Ionescu’s efforts helped the Liberty trail by three by halftime, but Indiana’s 17-0 run in the third later put the Liberty down 11, the biggest deficit at the time. The drought stretched to 19-0 before Kennedy Burke made a free throw at the 3:28 mark LYNX 101, SPARKS 78: In Minneapolis, Napheesa Collier scored 26 of her 32 points in the ﬁrst half, and Courtney Williams scored 17 points as the Minnesota Lynx returned to their winning ways by beating the Los Angeles Sparks.

Reserves Natisha Hiedeman scored 14 points and Maria Kliundikova scored 11 points for the Lynx (10-1), who were handed their ﬁrst loss of the season on Wednesday by the Seattle Storm, 94-84.

It was Collier’s third 30-plus point effort of the season. She started the year with a seasonhigh 34 points in a win over Dallas on May 16. Collier followed that with a 33-point effort a week later against Connecticut.

With the game in hand against the Sparks, Collier sat the fourth quarter after a 13-for-16 shooting performance.

Collier recorded more ﬁeld goals in the ﬁrst quarter than Los Angeles as a team She was 7-for-9 shooting compared to the Sparks, who were 4 for 7. Minnesota led 3415 at the end of one.

By halftime, Collier was at 10for-12 shooting while Los Angeles overall still trailed her by shooting just 7 for 30. Minnesota led 58-26 at halftime for its highest scoring half of the season

Kelsey Plum scored 20 points, Rickea Jackson scored 18 points, reserve Emma Cannon 14 and Dearica Hamby scored 10 and grabbed 12 rebounds for the Sparks (4-8).

minutes left before Gilgeous-Alexander got going. He took 11 shots in the ﬁnal 4:40 — three ﬁeld-goal attempts, one of them a 3-point try, and eight free throws and made them all.

“It’s unbelievable,” Daigneault said. “He really didn’t have it going a lot of the night. He was laboring. We had a hard time shaking him free. For him to be able to ﬂip the switch like that and get the rhythm he got just speaks to how great of a player he is.”

It might not have seemed so to the outside world — those who fixated on things like Oklahoma City’s 68-14 franchise-best record, its 16-game lead over its nearest challenger in the Western Conference standings, a record number of double-digit wins and how all of it was led by the MVP and scoring champion Gilgeous-Alexander But the Thunder did face some adversity this season.

“We haven’t really had to show it a lot this year, with the success we had in the regular season,” guard Jalen Williams said shortly before the team left for the ﬂight back to Oklahoma City “We’ve had a lot of ups and downs during the playoffs. We’ve just learned from those experiences. That is something Mark is really big on; every game you should be able to learn, then the next game you should be able to apply something and get better at it. That’s what we’re trying to do every time.”

The series is far from over and the Thunder know it. Indiana already has won once at Oklahoma City in these finals. And even though the teams ﬁnished 18 wins apart in the ﬁnal standings — OKC won 68 times, Indiana won 50 — it doesn’t seem like 18 wins worth of disparity between the clubs right now

They’re a hard team to beat here. They’re a hard team to beat, period. I thought we gutted it out on a night when we didn’t have a lot going, especially offensively.”

It was a night when the Thunder made only three 3-pointers and was shooting 45% with about ﬁve

Oklahoma City played without Chet Holmgren and Hartenstein for a while during the year There was some flux to the lineup at times. There was a Game 1 loss in the second round to Denver. And Daigneault embraced every bit of that pain.

Like the adversity of being down 10 points in the second half of a crucial NBA Finals game.

Just like Hartenstein was led to believe by the book, everything worked out great.

Indiana stole Game 1 at the end Oklahoma City stole Game 4 at the end, albeit not as dramatically as the Pacers took the opener Game 2 was pretty much controlled by the Thunder throughout; the Pacers had the best of the play for the majority of Game 3.

Add it up, and it looks exactly like what it is — a 2-2 series going into Game 5.

“I still feel like we have so much work to do,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “Halfway there, obviously, but still so far from the ﬁnish line.”

The ties that bind

Fever and Pacers are more than just neighbors in Indianapolis

BY TIM REYNOLDS AP basketball writer

INDIANAPOLIS Caitlin Clark is doubly disappointed about how the NBA Finals are going right now One, the Indiana Pacers lost Game 4.

Two, Clark can’t be there for Game 6.

Clark and the Indiana Fever have a good reason for why they won’t be at the Pacers’ last home game of the season on Thursday, when Indiana — which will be either up 3-2 or down 3-2 to the Oklahoma City Thunder by then, depending how Game 5 on Monday goes — plays host to Game 6 of the NBA Finals.

The Fever will be at Golden State that night, playing the expansion Valkyries.

“I was hoping they’d win it in ﬁve,” Clark said.

That can’t happen now But somehow, some way, the Fever will be paying some sort of attention to what’s going on at home Thursday night. The Pacers and Fever aren’t just neighbors. They’re basically basketball family They have the same ownership, play their games in the same building, cross paths with the other all the time.

And they rave about one another, with players from one team almost always cheering on the other

“I think young kids, if you watch basketball, you turn on and watch the Pacers,” Clark said. “It’s unselﬁsh. They play for each other They play fast. They play uptempo. They do things the right way Whether you’re a starter or whether you’re coming off the

bench, you’re giving everything you can to your team It’s really fun to watch.”

Much has been made of how this is a special time for basketball in basketball-mad Indianapolis, and the Pacers and Fever are both reveling in it.

The Pacers played host to the 2024 NBA All-Star Game and went to the Eastern Conference finals last season. The Fever flipped how many people think about the WNBA last season in Clark’s rookie year, with swarms ﬂocking to their games — home and away to see the former Iowa star play. There’s the NBA Finals going on now The WNBA All-Star Game is coming to Indy this summer, and it’s not hard to envision Clark and the Fever making a deep playoff run of their own this year

“She’s an incredible player someone that I have a ton of respect for, also a good person,” Pacers guard T.J. McConnell said. “I’ve been following her career especially when she got drafted by the Fever We all are happy to have her in Indy It’s been fun to watch.” Clark and Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton are close friends, and that’s just one of the many real and deep ties between the franchises. It’s not a big deal to see Pacers players at Fever games; it always happens. It’s not a big deal to see Fever players at Pacers games; they’re always there, too.

“It’s been amazing watching the Pacers,” Fever guard Sophie Cunningham said. “They’re so much fun to watch. I think we resemble their team quite a bit in the way we move the ball and the

way we’re trying to play.”

Fever coach Stephanie White played her high school and college basketball in the state of Indiana, then spent the bulk of her WNBA playing career with the Fever Nobody needs to explain to her what the game means in the state.

“I was here the last time the Pacers were in the finals, back in 2000,” White said. “I remember being in the building and just feeling all that energy It’s exciting. There’s no better place, the epicenter of basketball in Indiana and Indianapolis.”

She sees some parallels between how the Pacers built a contender and how the Fever are trying to become one again.

“The way that they’ve built and rebuilt with the roster, the patience that they’ve shown in the roster and in roster movement, the adversity that they faced early in the year,” White said. “They were this fast, exciting offensive team a year ago to being a solid defensive team that has won regular-season games and playoff games for them when the offense wasn’t really ﬂowing.”

Soon, the Fever will be the only game in town again. The NBA season is nearly over There are either two or three games left. And then, the Pacers will take their seats in the crowd to watch the Fever for the next few weeks. Clark made it clear: The teams really do get a beneﬁt from being around the other

“More than anything they’re just really good people,” Clark said. “They’re good guys. So, I’ve been really fortunate to be here during this time.”

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By MICHAEL CONROy

Indian Fever players Caitlin Clark, right, and Aliyah Boston, center watch during the first half of Game 4 of the NBA Finals between the Indiana Pacers and the Oklahoma City Thunder on Friday in Indianapolis.

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By MICHAEL CONROy

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark drives on New york Liberty guard

Sabrina Ionescu in the second half of a game in Indianapolis on May 24.

TRAINEDEYE

Who created themural in Union Passenger Terminal?

BY RACHEL MIPRO

Contributing writer

On her journeys via Amtrak trains and Greyhound buses, Uptown New Orleans resident Miuna Mae has plenty of time to sit in the city’sUnion Passenger Terminal and look at aseries of painstakingly detailed, colorful murals.

“I started thinking about it more, and the more that Isit there, the more interesting it becomes to me,” Mae said.

“Like the little details, right? There’sradiant women standing there.”

Her question: What is the story behind the murals?

The huge project is the work of Conrad Albrizio, known for hislargescale frescoes. The four panels in the terminal depict “The Age of Exploration, the Age of Colonization, the AgeofStruggle, and the Modern Age.” The intense, brightly-colored images of Louisianans aremeant to encompass the state’sentire history,introducing the state to travelers stepping off thetrain. Awhirlwind of boats, ﬁelds and people from all the agesare crammed in next to each other Decorating asleek terminal

Carolyn Bercier,author of “The Frescoes of Conrad Albrizio: Public Murals in the Midcentury South,” set the scene in New Orleans, in the early 1950s in acity recovering from WWII Bercier said thecity government, led then by New Orleans Mayor deLesseps “Chep” Morrison, commissioned Albrizio for the station work.

Bercier said Morrison wanted to revitalize New Orleans, and the terminal, complete with sleek design and imagery, was part of this vision.

“It was his (Morrison’s) desire to sort of modernize New Orleans, to kind of bringNew Orleans forward,” Bercier said. “Here was this great transportation locale, and Ithink that was the real impetus. …He tries to bring in alot of modern buildings and industry and so forth. And the Union Passenger

ä See CURIOUS, page 8D

Ward neighborhood of NewOrleans

FIRE &IRON

Blacksmith headstoWilliamsburgtodemonstrate hiscraft

SBY ROBERTS.WOLF Contributingwriter

tepping into Andrew’sWelding and Blacksmith Shop on Agriculture Street in the 7th Ward is like stepping into a bygone era, when thework of shapingraw ironintotools, gates and hinges required intenseheat and sheer brute force.

Owner and master blacksmith

Darryl Reevesisathird-generation blacksmith whohas been around ironwork his whole life. He has a warm smile andthe ﬁrm handshake thatyou’d expectfrom aman who pounds iron into submission. The New Orleansinhis voice is unmistakable. He grewupjust blocks fromhis business, andthe seafood boilingrig in his shopsignals that he’satrue New Orleanian.

Hislovefor this city is evident when he talks about repairing the gates of Jackson Square, replacing damaged railings on thePontalba Apartment galleriesorrecreating thechimney support bracketsfor the 300-year-old Ursulinesconvent

“When Itake something apart to repair it, Iknowthatitmay have been morethan 200 years since the lastperson put hands on it,” Reeves said. “Thatcan be quite humbling.”

This week Reeves andseveral assistantsareheadingtoWilliamsburg, Virginia, to demonstrate their deep knowledge of blacksmithing at the Williamsburg Juneteenth celebration. The living history museum recreates life as it was during theAmerican Revolutionary Warperiod.

A fire supercharged

In Reeves’ shop, acoal-burning forge that resemblesa largebarbe-

cue pit with avent hood suspended above it dominates onecornerof the cavernous warehouse. Reeves uses an airblowerfromthe 1800s that looks like acast-iron shoe box witha hand cranktosupercharge the fire with oxygen, generating temperatures of more than 3,100 degrees —more than hot enough to meltiron.

ä See BLACKSMITH, page 8D

Ican makejust about anything that anyoneneeds out of iron in regard to restoring old buildings and structures. Ihaven’t found anything Icouldn’tfix.” DARRyL REEVES,blacksmith

For Father’s Day, notableLouisianans wroteletters to theirdads

E.J.Lagasse

finishes adish tableside while his father,Emeril Lagasse, looks on from the glass-enclosed kitchen at Emeril’s RestaurantinNew Orleans.

BY JANRISHER Staff writer

Fathersshape us in ways both big and small. Their words,actions, silences —even their absences —leave lasting imprints thatripple intothe next generation. In celebration of Father’sDay, thenewspaper invited notable Louisianans and their children to write letters to their fathers somestill living and others long gone. The lettersrecall the shared bonds of Louisianafootball fandom,working boots, cabbage soup diets, trips to the Grand Canyon, thevalue of taking right turns and how to make aroux. Someletters grapple with divorce, sobriety and making peace with memories. The reﬂections offer glimpses into themen whoshaped their lives, childhoods and worldviews. Whether your own father is present or amemory,near or far, we hope these letters resonate and perhaps inspire one of your own. From chef E.J. Lagassetohis father,chefEmerilLagasse Dad, Youtaught me how to peel carrots and how to care forothers around me. Youshowed me how to tie atie and makearoux. Taught me the right amount of cream in a barbecue shrimpand to keep my chin up in amoment of defeat. Youshowed me how to ﬁnd the good, even on bad days. Youtaught ä See

STAFF PHOTOSBySOPHIA GERMER

Blacksmith Darryl Reeves hits apiece of hot metal to makea small leaf at his workshop on the edge of the 7th

Blacksmith DarrylReevessecures apieceofart he madetobeplaced on the hood of his coal forgeathis workshop.

Albrizio

ARTS &CULTURE

‘The TrailTheyBlazed’ spotlights civilrightsstories

WHAT’S HAPPENINGAT N.O. AREA MUSEUMS

Dave Walker The new Historic New Orleans Collection exhibit “The Trail They Blazed” got its start abouta decade agowith an oral historyproject called NOLA Resistance, an effort to record the voices of participants in the city’smidcentury contributionsto the national Civil Rights Movement. Those contributions were substantial; the oral histories, which are archived at hnoc.org, ﬁll more than 50 hours. Some of them have been heard in atraveling exhibit thathas been touring the city since September2023, including stops at the Tate, Etienne and Prevost Center,the University of Holy Cross and acouple of library locations, with more tour stops to come.

That traveling exhibit was acollaboration between HNOC’sstaff and the local Civil RightsMovement participants themselves.

“So much of how the project is designed came from those meetings,” co-curator Eric Seiferth said. “Wewanted to reach alocal audience with this (traveling) show,and we wereexcited about theidea of expanding our reach outwards from our French Quarter buildings. We decided that it was agreat goal to go and meet New Orleanians where they were.”

The move to adapt some of that content —and add to it —for an in-gallery experience now places the NOLA Resistance voices where visitors to the city are.

“That was really importantto our stakeholder group, too,” Seiferth said. “They felt like thecivil rights stories in NewOrleans weren’tknown in New Orleans but also weren’tknown nationally.”

Newartifacts,audio andvideo

The design and narrativeofthe new exhibit, on view at 520 Royal St. through June 7, 2026, mirrors the traveling show by group-

ing the content into topic pods, including “VoterRegistration & Education,” “School Desegregation,” “The March on City Hall,” “Boycotts” and others “Wetell seven stories and they’reall related,” Seiferth said. “You can experience them in whatever way makes sense to you.”

Engagement prompts,asking visitors to share experiences from their own lives relating to the documented events, also made the transition from the travelingexhibit to Royal Street. Loan itemsand more than 50 artifacts from HNOC’scollections have joined the story.These include:

n ArchivalTVnews coverage of several events, which couldn’t be used in the traveling exhibition.

n National newsmagazines that carried coverage of the 1960 desegregation of the New Orleans schools McDonogh19(by Tessie Prevost, Gail Etienne and Leona Tate) andWilliam Frantz Elemen-

tary(by Ruby Bridges). “You can see how much of areach this event had, and also how amainstream publication is covering it, Seiferthsaid.

n Avinyl record, “Sit-in Songs: Songs of the Freedom Riders,” from which aperformance of “We Shall Overcome” can be played.

n An interactive display encouraging visitors to take avoter registration test from theearly 1960s. “This testwas designed to stop speciﬁcally Black Louisianans from registering to vote,” Seiferthsaid. “So, you can go through it and see what those questions were and try to answer them.”

n Anddisplayed in astriking reveal, apassenger seat from aNew Orleansstreetcar afﬁxed with themovable wooden slat marked “For colored patrons only,”behind which Black riders were segregated.“These screens were movable from seat to seat,” Seiferth said. “If aWhitepassenger got on and wanted more space to sit,they would take up thescreen,

pick it up andmoveitback. That would likely mean aBlack passenger would have to get up out of their seat and go stand in the back.”

Listeningtothe voices

Alsonew to the exhibit are timelines that connect national and local actions. Returning are theNOLA Resistance voices. Throughout the exhibit, visitors can press buttons to hear them This feature wasthe result of theformative stakeholder meetings that preceded the traveling exhibit.

“They told us we had to include thevoices of people,” Seiferth said. “Not just their words but their actual voices.”

So visitorstoday can hear “stories of social and racial justice told by those wholived them,” says theexhibit’stitle wall, some of whom are Doratha “Dodie” Smith-Simmons, Oretha Castle Haley,Sybil Haydel Morial and Norman C. Francis.

“The Trail They Blazed” is co-

n For Friends of the Cabildo, Dionne Butlerwill present aSummer Member Lecture Seriespresentation titled“AHistoryofNew Orleans Creole Culture”at6 p.m.Tuesdayatthe Cabildo. friendsofthecabildo.org. n John Curatola will discuss his book “ArmiesAfloat: How the Development of Amphibious Operations in Europe Helped Win WorldWar II” at a National WWII Museum “meet the author” event at 5:30 p.m.Wednesday.The presentation will be offered in-person and online.nationalww2museum.org n The newpermanent exhibit “Vince Fraser: Ancestral Odyssey” opens at 8p.m.Thursdayatthe NewOrleans African American Museum.Inthe exhibit, Fraser, aLondon-based digital artist, addresses“Black Masking Indian tradition as aportal throughtime—bridging past,present and speculativefuturesina new immersiveenvironment made for contemplation and meditation, according to the museum.noaam org n The exhibit “If youLook Hard Enough,youCan See OurFuture: Selections of ContemporarySouth African Artfrom the Nando’s ArtCollection” closesFridayat the Newcomb ArtMuseum. newcombartmuseum.tulane.edu n John Durelwill signhis book “Descendants: The Divided Lineage of aLouisiana Creole Family” at 1p.m. Saturdayat The Historic New Orleans Collection’s the Shop at the Collection. hnoc.org

curated by Aimee Everett with curatorial research support from Heather Green. Admission is free.

DaveWalker focusesonbehindthe-scenes coverage of the region’s many museums here andatwww.themuseumgoer com. Email Daveatdwalkertp@ gmail.com.

PHOTO By DAVEWALKER

On arecent Friday evening, and in advance of the celebratory weekend of the 25th anniversary of The National WWII Museum (which was founded on June 6, 2000, as The National D-Day Museum), the American Spirit Awards Gala occurred in the site’sU.S. Freedom Pavilion: The Boeing Center.Itwas presented by Hancock Whitney,which has as its president and CEO John M. Hairston.In theprinted program, he wrote in praise of the extraordinary patriotism and duty of the Greatest Generation, who allied against tyranny to ensure freedom for those who followed.

The American Spirit Awards, which ofﬁcially kicked off the quarter century celebration of the military history museum, hailed “individuals and organizations whose work reﬂects the values and spirit of those who served our country during World War II andthroughout history.”

The 2025 honorees have played pivotal roles in the museum’sgrowth and development and have made tremendouscontributions to community and country.

Take abow, C. Paul Hilliard,aWWII veteran, entrepreneur,corporate executive andphilanthropist, who joined the Marine Corps at age 17 and ﬂew 45 combat missionsin the Paciﬁc during the war.And, longtime chairman and CEO of Bollinger Shipyards DonaldT.“Boysie” Bollinger, whohas committed substantial time and resources tomake The National WWII Museum “one of the best in the world.” Also, historian andformer University of New Orleans Vice Chancellor Gordon H.“Nick” Mueller, the museum’s founding president and CEO emeritus, who led the museum as president andCEO for 17 years. The three men,all former chairmen of the board of trustees, were respec-

tively presented by board trustees Michael S. Bylen, John D. Georges and Richard D.Adkerson, chairman emeritus. In 2024, theAmerican Spirit Award re-

n Jewish Family Service

Fathers, all!

Nell Nolan SOCIETY

cipients were retired U.S. Army Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody,film director StevenSpielberg,and theTuskegee Airmen represented by retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. GeorgeE.Hardy Patriotic red, white and blue dominated thevast space,the Freedom Pavilion, and figured in thefloral centerpieces atop white linens. The tasty menuwas shaved fennel and orange salad, prime beef filet and yuzu cheesecake with blood orange syrup.

Master of ceremonies Mark Romig opened theprogram with gusto. Then came the Presentation of Colors by the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve Color Guard and the national anthem by The Victory Belles; the invocation by chaplain Maj. Torrey Garrison, USAF; the recognition by The National WWII Museum President and CEO Stephen J.Watson;anappreciation to the sponsors by board chair Suzanne T. Mestayer;and by board

n Community Kudos

secretary John Hairston, aChampagne toast. Following the dinner service and the awards presentations, music wastothe festive fore, thanks to acclaimed soprano Sarah Jane McMahon and, forthe closing tribute, The Victory Belles. All recalled the museum founder Stephen E. Ambrose, Ph.D.(1936-2002). More names to know and note were those of the 2025 Board of Trustees.

In addition to chair Suzanne Mestayer, the ofﬁcers are chair-elect James E. Maurin, whospearheaded the Spirit Award Selection Committee, as well as secretary John Hairston, treasurer Pete November immediate past chair TedWeggeland,and Stephen J. Watson. Forty-eight people serve on the board. During the course of the celebratory weekend, actually four days, they rallied forthe book launch and reception of Nick Mueller’s“Preserving the Legacy: Creating The National WWIIMuseum”; observed the Dr.Hal Baumgarten D-Day Commemoration; and attended the ravedabout “The Eyes of the World: From D-Day to V-EDay” at the Orpheum Theater presented by the Priddy Family Foundation. On the ﬁnal day of the 25th anniversary ado, Timber and PeggyFloyd presented Family and Member Dayatthe ever-growing campus. Highlighting “family,” that theme harked back to the earlier words of John Hairston as he recalled the valor of the war’s brave individuals, wholeft alegacy —togenerations —offreedom

Held at the residence of Archbishop Gregory M.Aymond,the Catholic Charities Archbishop Hannan CommunityAppeal End of 2024 Campaign Reception underscored gratitude, along with giving. Archbishop Aymondisthe AHCA leader.The invitation was issued by 2024 campaign chair Leon J.“Trey” Reymond III (in attendance withspouse Cate)tohonor supporters. Additional headliners were President and CEO of Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans Cynthia T. Hayes with spouse Stephen, RonaldB.Blitch, Nancy and Kevin Colomb, Dr Gerry Cvitanovich, KlaraB.Cvitanovich,Ann and John Dardis, Sister Marjorie Hebert, MSC, Denise and WilliamD.Hoffman,Dr. Renee Reymond Hulefeld and Michael, Christine and Price LeBlanc, Joanne and Dr Rob Marier,the junior Reymonds (Terry and Leon), Joyand Mark Spansel, Paulette Stewart,and Helen Young They and others savored the Messina’sCatering & Events purveyance, which featured passed hors d’oeuvres, table displays, and assorted desserts.

Chatter centered on muniﬁcence. Gifts to the AHCA raise crucial undesignated funds that allow Catholic Charities to servicethe needy through housing, health care, education and emergency responsetochange lives forthe better

“Take flight with JFS” was the buoyant beckoning of Jewish Family Service of Greater NewOrleans,which booked its annual fundraiser at NewOrleansLakefront Airport and honored Stanley and Ellen Kessler,also the Sky High Presenting Sponsor.Service on theboards of Shir Chadash Synagogue and Jewish Federation of New Orleans are among their many examples of dedicationand devotion. The funds raised at the high-flying event support JFS programs that strengthen thelivesofvulnerable individuals and families.Connection, too, figured in the format as guests enjoyedsuchfeatures as the venue’s art deco decor,large “faux”airlinesads, avintageplane, swing dancers, cocktails anda dairydinner. The floral centerpieces amused with insertionsoftinyairplanes suitcases and globes. Guests also delightedinthe milkshakes (bourbon optional) in the venue’s 1930 Soda Shop. Boarded for the takeoff of Flight No.JFS2025 were theKesslers, Gail Fenton Pesses, Carol and Al Merlin, Melindaand

Dr Mark and Rochelle Adler Effron,Vicky Gloverand EddieSoll, Molly Pulda and GarySernovitz, Cathyand Morris Bart,Vivian and Richard

Wise and Kevin Wilkins, JonnyLake, Dr Harris and Bonnie Blackman, Kathyand Hal Shepard,and from JFS, executive director

Ungar and Stanley,board member/eventchair MarilynnGaller Wohlstadter,board president Ashley Merlin Goldand Scott,former board president Debbie Pesses and Leon,and board members EllieWainer,Michele Allen-Hart, and BarbaraKaplinsky with Mark.For souvenirs of the open-runway revelry,a photobooth awaited. Happy Father’sDay!

Kaplinsky, Debbie Pesses, Michele Allen-Hart

PHOTOSByJEFF STROUT

Boysie and JoyBollinger,Beth and NickMueller

Robertand Kikie Priddy

Stephen Watson,Madlyn and Paul Hilliard

Ann and John Hairston, Suzanne Mestayer

PHOTOSByMARy STROUT

Leon Reymond, Trey Reymond, Archbishop GregoryAymond, Cynthia Hayes

Sister Marjorie Hebert, M.S.C., and Sister Ann Lacour,M.S.C

Renee and MikeHulefeld

Paulette Stewart, Kevinand NancyColomb

PHOTOSByMARy STROUT

Stan and Ellen Kessler,Ashleyand Scott Gold

Rochelle Effron, Mike Alltmont

Roselle Ungar,Marilynn Wohlstadter

Barbara

Morris Mintz,

Cahn, Ginny

Roselle M.

BY CATHERINE S. COMEAUX

Contributing writer

Editor’snote: Catherine S. Comeaux

and her family spent three summers exploring state, national, and provincial parks —from Louisiana to Alaska, to Nova Scotia, and all along the Mississippi River in between. This yearshe turns her attention to our Louisiana state parks to discover the natural beauty of the South less than aday’sdrive from home.

Local outdoors enthusiast Becky Williams has extensively explored the wonders of the natural world —from the hills of the Appalachian Trail to the ancient footpaths of the Camino de Santiago and myriad trails in between. Her life of adventuring in the wilderness began in the longleaf pineforests of Sam Houston Jones State Park not too far from her childhood home in Lake Charles.

The 1,074-acre park was densely forested when Williams was a kid, and her family traditionwas to rent the four park cabins for Thanksgiving each year.The crew of aunts, uncles and cousins would pack aturkey and trailer aboat for an extended weekend of playing on the CalcasieuRiver. Williams got to know this nearby outdoor playground and went on to spend many of her highschool days riding bikes throughout the park and hiking the heavily wooded trails. The park landscape has changed over the decades —hurricanes culled the once heavily wooded area, 10 newly builtcabins replaced the original four,and investments in the trail systemhave improved the park’smountain biking potential since Williams ﬁrst muddied hertires there.

In 2020, Hurricane Laura’sCategory 4winds toppled or damaged

TRAVEL TROUBLESHOOTER

By ChristopherElliott

TRAVEL

80%ofthe park’strees.However, ﬁrst-timevisitors won’timmediately realize theloss. Beautiful stands of cypress and tupelo line the waters,and hikers can still enjoymilesofshaded trails,some of whichoverlap ancient Native Americanfootpaths that were once used as wagon roads during the colonial period.

Remnants of the devastated treeshave becomeone withthe changed landscape —improving the integrity of theforestby providing wildlife habitat, soil nutrients and erosion control. Woodpeckers can be heard throughout the park taking advantage of the standing deadtrees for nest building.

Along the trails,unique ferns and mossesabound in themicro ecosystems created by fallen trees.

Throughout the park, beginning with themagnolia alleyatthe entrance, visitors will see newly

planted trees,which is part of the reforesting effortsmade by the state,volunteers, nonproﬁts and businesses. Live oaks have been planted throughout the camping area promising shade in the decades to come.

The campsite is well set up for RVswith hookups, cemented pads anddriveways.Tent campers would likely enjoy the sitesonthe edge fartherfromthe main road, but they should plantovisit in the cooler months until those young oak trees shoot up afew morefeet

As can be seen in other Louisiana state parks, severalprime camping sites areindeﬁnitely occupied by cutesyglamping-style wall tents —all unavailable for use since Tentrr,the tech company that oversawtheir rental, ﬁled for bankruptcy in 2023. These beautiful campsites remain in contractual captivity as they sit peacefully empty—creating a quiet,people-free zone in thepark

which could be viewed as apositive in the busier times of the year when the RV,cabin and lodge sites arefully booked.

The 10 new cabins and lodge sometimes book up ayear in advance, especially in the spring, but midweek reservations are often available.Located near the boat launch, some cabins overlook the riverwhile others are tucked further in the woods. Each cabin sleeps up to eight people and has a screened-in porchwhere visitors can enjoy aﬁreplace in the cooler months or ﬁre up the TV over the mantle for acozy cabin experience.

Birdwatchers, boaters, paddlers and nature enthusiasts of all sorts aredrawn to the park, but mountain bikers have embraced it in a special way.Acommittedgroup of themhas formed the nonproﬁt Lake AreaMountain Bike Organizationand dedicated themselves to developing the off-road trails

at the park. Bikers can ride alittle over 10 milesonthe network of trails while,with the help of grant funding, the organization is working to expand that mileage to 20. The “orange trail,” or Riverwalk Trail, is an easy ride that loops around the campground, following abend in the Calcasieu River with acouple of engineered small jumps that can easily be rolled over

For the more adventurous, OKwith-potentially-being-lost rider the Back 40 Trail winds through the woods crossing and sometimes paralleling other trails for about 3-4 mileswith plenty of opportunities for root jumps and short down hills. Be on alert for afew spots where bikers will need to portage large downed trees. The low areas hold water creating aseries of fun technical challenges.

Thanks to Lake Area Mountain Bike Organization volunteers, most of these muddy low spots have options to cross over on cement pavers. ABSA Eagle Scout service project has provided a bike maintenance station near the restrooms close to the Kids Trail with ahose for de-mudding after the ride.

State parks, while protected from overdevelopment, are not protected from the destructive forces of nature whichultimately bring rejuvenation to the wild spaces they seemingly destroy Visit Sam Houston Jones State Park and enjoy the newly planted trees alongside the remnants of the storms that made way for more natural beauty to come. What to know before yougo n Groceries are available in the nearby towns of Moss Bluffand Westlake.

n EV charging stations are available on-site.

n Ask about awater

Renter disputes damage to Enterprise carinGermany

Christopher Elliott

Irecently rented acar from the Enterprise locationinMunich, Germany.When Ireturned thevehicleafter several days, noone inspected it.Afew days later,I received amessageinmyspam folder saying Ihad damaged the car Enterprise claims I scratched thecar duringmyrental.The scratch is small, barely finger-length and thin.They sent me abill for just over $1,800. The photos they sent show no damagein one photo, and the other two photosthat show the scratch don’tshow the license plate or anyindication that it is the same car.I took avideo of the car whenIre-

turned it, and it showsnodamagewhere they claim thescratch is Icalled Enterprisecustomer service.The U.S. representative couldn’t find anyrecord of the damage andcouldn’thelp me.Three months later,Enterprisecharged my credit card for the full amount of the damage. I disputed the chargewithmycreditcard company, butthey aresiding with Enterprise.

How can Idefendmyself against this false claim? —Eric Weiman, San Diego Youshouldn’thave to pay for damage that didn’texist when youreturned the vehicle. You’re responsible for the car from the time you pick it up to thetime you return it. But after you return it? That’sonthe company

Youdid the right thingbytaking avideo of the car when you returned it.That gives you some evidence to support your claim. I also recommend taking “before” photos and videos of the vehicle, just to establish abaseline.

The mostconfusing part of your case is that you showed the rental location avideo of the car you rented and it appears thecar didn’thave ascratch. Meanwhile, thephotos they showed you allegedly proving you had damaged thecar were not identiﬁable as the car you rented. In other words, it could have been any vehicle in thecompany’sﬂeet.

Andwhen you asked for clariﬁcation,Enterprise seemed todouble

down on its claim. Ithink you had one moreoption:Anappeal to an executive at Enterprise. Ilist the names, numbers and emailaddresses of the top customer service executives at Enterprise on my consumer advocacy site, Elliott.org. Icontacted Enterprise on your behalf.

“Wetake seriously any concerns brought to us by customers and investigate them thoroughly,” arepresentative told me. “Inthis particular instance, damage to thevehicle wasnot present when therenter took possession of the vehicle, yet, wasclearly present when the vehicle wasprocessed for return.”

Enterprise says it has aphotographic tunnel, which is operated by athird party.Vehicles from all rental companies pass through the tunnel in and out of Munich airport and are photographed for damage. The photos suggest you returned your car with damage.

“Because of this, we do intend to stand by our charge in this case and pursue the renter fordamages,” the Enterprise spokesman said.

Christopher Elliott is the founder of Elliott Advocacy,anonproﬁt organization that helps consumers solve their problems. Email him at chris@elliott.org or get help by contacting him on his site.

PHOTO By CATHERINE S. COMEAUX

Ablue

DINING SCENE

At Saffronand Kingsway,astory of father andson chefs

The scallop Kochine is adelicious representation of Saffron NOLA,but the dish initially stirredsome kitchen contretemps.

class to everything you do,” Ashwinsaid.

Arestaurant, agift

The chef Ashwin Vilkhu conceived it as ahigh-touch first course, pairingthe marine sweetness of seared scallop with the tropical spark of ginger mellowed by rich mango butter,equal parts Indian flavor and global culinary refinement.

His father and co-chef Arvinder Vilkhu had his own assessment upon seeing the dish in the kitchen they share “Hoity-toity,” Arvinder said once more, recalling the moment as father and son sat together foran interview

Working as co-chefs will notalways be smooth sailing, especially with afamily dynamic in play.But in the end the dish made the menu, and the evolution of aunique New Orleans restaurant continued.

So does the story of howa father and son are working togetherto make their mark on the local dining scene.

Evolution, ethos

In May,the Vilkhu family openedtheir second restaurant, The Kingsway,just afew doors up MagazineStreet.

Quite different from Saffron NOLA,The Kingsway is acontemporary Asian restaurant serving afour-course tasting menu.

Ashwin created the menu by reaching into his family’spast recasting it for the moment, inspired in large measure by his dad. There are dishesdrawn fromearlier stops in Arvinder’s career,and dishes based on others he cooked for his family as they grew up in Gretna

Embedded in the concept is an ethos thefather and son share, a blend of ﬁlial love welded to professional rigor

It extends from daily operations (preparing astaff meal before service is atreasured duty for Arvinder) to how they chart the future of their family business.

“My goal is legacy,it’stocreate an ecosystem for our team and ourfamily,and keepputting outinteresting projects,” said Ashwin.

“Wehave to provide something no one else is doing, something that is unique to ourselves and our family.”

Homage in hospitality

Arvinder and his wife Pardeep started out in New Delhi. Arvinderbroke from afamily tradition

in the engineering ﬁeld by enrolling in hotel school. The move was inspired by what he’d learned at home, where his father’sjob running aregional utility meant the family was forever hosting people.

“It was workers, priests, neighborhood children,”Arvinder recalled. “It was understood that thefamily would host, and there was alwaysfood for them.”

Arvinder’scareer began in the kitchen,cookingwith master chefs from India and China at the acclaimed Tajbrand hotels. But underthe expectationsofIndian society at the time, to win approval to marry Pardeep he needed to switch to management for acoatand-tie job

That, andother decisions made through the years to support family rather than hisown culinary ambitions, are on his son’smind today

“If there had been aslight trajectory change, he’d been known as oneofthe great chefs, an authority on Indian and Asian food,” said Ashwin. “He’sknown locally for that, butItruly believe he’d beenwidelyknown.”

Part of creating The Kingsway is paying homage to his father’s talent, and his inﬂuence.

‘Bringingclass’

TheVilkhus movedtothe

U.S.in1984, when Ashwin was 6monthsold. They settled in Gretna.

Pardeep worked as apsychologist.Her husbandcontinued in hospitality,ﬁrst at theIntercontinentalHotel and nextasmanager of thePickwick Club, an old-line social clubdowntown. The invitation of aclub member to cater a wedding started anew sideline business, SaffronCaterers. This was initially based in the family’s garage. As the cateringbusiness grew

thefamily also hosted at home, preparing robust feastsofrestaurant-qualitydishes from the global interests Arvinder pursued. Ashwin and his sister Pranita were watching. As Ashwin re-

membersittoday,the house on Kingsway Drive East (later the namesake forhis restaurant) was ahub of hospitality

“Wecame from humble means, but it was alwaysabout bringing

Pardeep retired from psychology around the time her children were approaching college age. The family had morebandwidth, and so in 2011 they expanded Saffron Catering to becomearestaurant, open only on Friday nights, called Saffron. Somewhere between apop-up and asupper club, the once-a-week experience drew awide following for the family’s worldly take on Indian cuisine.

Saffron washitting stride as Ashwin was working toward a master’sdegree at the University of New Orleans.

He wrote apaper on what Saffron could be, charting aprogression to ahigh-end restaurant, taking inspiration from Nina Compton’sthen-new Caribbean restaurant Compère Lapin and Alon Shaya’swork introducing modern Israeli cuisine.

“Here were high-end restaurants in primelocations serving something very different from NewOrleans and Creole ﬂavors,” he said.

“That gave me alot of conﬁdence to open Saffron.”

He gave the business plan to his father as aChristmas giftin 2015. Twoyears later,the family opened Saffron NOLA on an Uptownstretch of Magazine Street, right where Ashwin’sanalysis of ZIPcodes from their Friday night customers pointed them ‘Tough love’

In the years since, the relationship of father and son has evolved as Ashwin’srole within the company has grown.

“We’ve come to the agreement that if you take on anew project, Iwill support you, but you are the captain of it,” said Arvinder

The initial tussle over scallop Kochine was not aroadblock, but alaunching point forhow they enact that management philosophy

The twochefspresent ideas to each other,critiquing early versions as ﬁrst drafts, talking through timing and temperature, how it will be plated.

Sometimes they disagree but usually ﬁnd consensus, or at least acquiescence to the other’svision.

“That’sthe beneﬁt of having ayounger generation in your group,” Arvinder explained, looking at his son across the table as he spoke. “Their eyes see differently,their evaluation is about what their generation is looking for. Combining wisdom and experience and great ideas from the twogenerations makes it compete.”

“I wish Iheard that every time I present adish,” Ashwin sighed in response.

“Sometimes fathers don’tsay it very boldly,but the reason we still worktogether is, internally, Ifeel that wayevery day,” Arvinder replied. “It’stough love, but the love is always there.”

Email IanMcNulty at imcnulty@theadvocate.com.

The Kingsway, from chef Ashwin Vilkhu, is locatedat4201 MagazineSt. in NewOrleans.

Three generations of the Vilkhu family,from left, Pardeep,Arvinder, Irya,Tarin and Tina, share afamily momentbefore the opening of The Kingsway

PHOTOSByCHRISGRANGER

Ashwin Vilkhu, left,and his father,Arvinder Vilkhu, inspect adish in the kitchen at The Kingsway, a contemporaryAsian restaurant serving afour-course tasting menu.

New George Dureau book showcases unseen photos

100 images of N.O. artist’s work come from museum’s contact sheets

BY RIEN FERTEL Contributing writer

“George Valentine Dureau: Life and Art in New Orleans” by

Mississippi

The iconic New Orleans artist George Valentine Dureau was “named for two saints,” his friend W. Kenneth Holditch observed, “one who fought dragons, one who became the very symbol of love.”

The warrior and the lover: he wore this dichotomy well, according to Howard Philips Smith’s monumental survey of Dureau’s life and artistic career

The main draw here, especially for longtime Dureau fans, will be the 100 previously unseen and unpublished large-format photographs, taken from contact sheets housed at the Historic New Orleans Collection. But just as revelatory is a series of absorbing essays, written by Smith, the author of several previous books on New Orleans art and history, including the indispensable “Unveiling the Muse: The Lost History of Gay Carnival in New Orleans” from 2017

Born in 1930 and raised in the Bayou St. John neighborhood, Dureau ﬁrst exhibited his paintings at the age of 11, then went on to study art at LSU and architecture at Tulane Induction into the Army brieﬂy interrupted his nascent career in 1954, when he enlisted in the Military Police Corps. He gained notoriety for enjoying a weekend tryst with an AWOL soldier he was ordered to escort back to base.

Back in New Orleans, after a stint as a Canal Street window dresser, he pledged to devote his life to art.

He ﬁrst found success with his 1964 painting, “Fat Tuesday, Waiting for Comus,” which led to a solo exhibition at the Isaac Delgado Museum of Art, today’s New Orleans Museum of Art. The composition is a brilliant bait-and-switch A scattering of ﬁgures stand, hands on hips and looking bored, presumably waiting for the parade to arrive a true-to-life Mardi Gras moment if there ever was one.

The painting’s only carnivalesque detail is the sultry red street on which they linger.

Two years later, Dureau decamped to the capital of the art world for six months But New York City’s galleries found his work to be unfashionable.

“I was sort of reinventing ﬁgure painting. It was very much out of style,” he admitted years later “Everyone was being abstract.”

Dureau doubled down, refocusing his art on often nude portraits of men. A 1971 Royal Street show was greeted with derision.

“The artist is apparently on a Michelangelo binge,” the Times-Picayune’s art critic sneered, comparing his recent work to “a broken record repeating a groove over and over and over again.”

Stung, Dureau settled into seclusion, refusing to showcase his work for a half-dozen years

He returned to the scene with a 1977 mid-career retrospective held at the newly opened Contemporary Arts Center, the ambitious ground zero in the transformation of a downtown neighborhood of derelict warehouses into a Southern SoHo. Alongside his paintings, Dureau, who was White, hung several recent photographs: straightforward street portraits of Black laborers.

The impetus for picking up his camera was a

blockbuster Diane Arbus retrospective at the Museum of Modern Art, which eventually traveled to New Orleans. For Dureau, Arbus’ intimate blackand-white photographs of people living on society’s fringes proved a revelation.

A follow-up exhibit in 1979, titled “Photographs of Men” and held at the newly opened and instantly electrifying Galerie Deville, signaled a trajectory that immediately made Dureau a local legend and heralded the direction his life’s work would take “Dureau somehow manipulates this difficult subject into the most beautiful art,” the TimesPicayune raved this time “Only a special love for humanity could effect this.”

Following Arbus’ lead, his portraits captured New Orleans’ most oppressed and maligned individuals stylized in the heroic, nude Greco-Roman style. Black men, people with dwarﬁsm and physical disabilities, especially amputees. Queer drifters, grifters and bohemians.

“He became known,” Smith writes, “for ﬁnding beauty in the grotesque, the marginalized, the forgotten and equally in the sensual, the attractive, the beauteous.”

Unlike Arbus, Dureau would almost exclusively shoot in a series of French Quarter studio-homes. Safer spaces, no doubt, for his artistic vision. Dureau’s photos often feature full-frontal male nudity He’d roam New Orleans in his black Jeep trawling for models, many of whom became his lovers.

He possessed, according to one friend and model, an “almost exclusive insistence on the ﬂesh.”

That artistic insistence seized the attention of Robert Mapplethorpe, a young New York photographer 16 years Dureau’s junior. By the time the budding artist visited New Orleans in the mid-tolate 1970s, he had “become obsessed,” in Smith’s words, with the local legend-in-the-making. The photographers became fast friends, photographing each other and cruising gay bars together for models and hookups.

Mapplethorpe, who died from an AIDS-related illness in 1989 would become one of the defining American artists of the 20th century Dureau couldn’t help but feel snubbed Today, he remains obscure outside New Orleans.

Smith attempts to decipher what he calls the artist’s “jigsaw-puzzle life” with a narrative that is similarly fragmentary, sometimes to a fault. He transports readers into Dureau’s disorderly studio kingdom: stacks of biographies of obscure saints, twisted tubes of paint, three silver pitchers — “one from each of the artist’s mother’s marriages.”

The “golden decade” of the 1980s, when Dureau ruled the city’s downtown bohemia, is brilliantly brought to life. But frequent narrative shifts produce a timeline that can be difﬁcult to follow And a long essay focusing on Dureau’s art-world contemporaries falls ﬂat

The author is unafraid to reveal that Dureau could at times personify the artist as a monster He struggled with alcoholism, alienated many friends and lovers and was aggressively self-absorbed, frequently referring to himself in the third person. Since Dureau’s death in 2014, critics, including Smith, have questioned his motives This survey asks the reader to consider: Were Dureau’s photographs supportive or exploitative?

Dureau, perhaps, would answer that they were both.

“We all are painfully inadequate in one way or another,” he said in a 1979 interview nationally broadcast on ABC. “I think that is very important, to create from unhappy ideas.”

Rien Fertel is the author of four books, including, most recently, “Brown Pelican.”

Family’s story represents ills of a nation in ‘So Far Gone’

BY BARBARA SIMS Contributing writer

“So Far Gone” by Jess Walter, HarperCollins Publishers, 400 pages

Jess Walter has done it again. The award-winning writer of modern-day and historical novels, short stories and nonﬁction is often at his best in works that shine a light on the ills that have beset the United States’ attempt to maintain a “just and equitable society.”

In several works that critique the civic scene of whatever period, Walter asserts that most national ills are selfinﬂicted. To support his implicit thesis that our present national character is becoming increasingly degraded, he chooses to make his point by showing us what happened to one nuclear family, the Kinnicks, in his newest novel, “So Far Gone.”

When the national and personal chaos of life in his world became simply unbearable for Rhys Kinnick, he retreated 40 miles from his home in Spokane, Washington, to an old shack surrounded by some forest land he had inherited. There he remained, seeing virtually no one, for four years.

Then one day two children knocked on his door and he gruffly assumed they wanted to sell him candy But they announced that indeed they were his grandchildren. Their mother, Rhys’ daughter Bethany, had brought them along for a short visit. On her return to Spokane, she conﬁded to family and friends that he was “so far gone” that she despaired of his ever resuming what was considered a normal life.

sense of regret and self-knowledge, challenging him to give up his monk-like existence and assume some responsibility toward those he loves.

His daughter has pronounced him more interested in ideas than in people, but she is proven wrong as he enters into a contentious and sometimes violent confrontation with members of the area’s Christian militia in a struggle for the safety of his grandkids.

As “So Far Gone” progresses, we learn that the title might apply to other major characters, who came to feel that they, too, should run away By the conclusion of the novel, the reader has followed Rhys at a harrying pace through a series of dangerous encounters that add up to a small war not without casualties. Some of the conﬂicts seem to be resolved to the beneﬁt of Rhys and his family, though their lives will never be the same.

But to Rhys, nothing seemed normal anymore. He had lost his job as a respected reporter because people no longer read newspapers, and the same fate followed when he next worked for a magazine. Most people seemed to be getting their news on their phones or TV, much of it spurious rumors, celebrity nonsense or downright lies, often in sound bites.

As a former environmental editor, he despaired as well of the U.S. political scene, as it leaned too far from his sympathy with practically every issue of national importance. His family, however, is the sphere in which Rhys felt most defeated and useless. It broke his heart that his bright, adored daughter was married to a man who had become, by listening to AM radio, a fanatical adherent of an extreme religious group obsessed with conspiracy theories and adherence to a literal interpretation of the Old Testament.

The group’s Christian nationalist militia was preparing for a holy war and the cataclysmic end of the world.

At a Thanksgiving dinner in 2016, Rhys tried to wriggle out of his son-in-law’s badgering to concur with his beliefs. But the inevitable confrontation ﬁnally couldn’t be avoided and thus came Kinnick’s decision to go off the grid, isolating himself from everyone and everything, even to the point of throwing away his cellphone.

Rhys lives in his private desert for another three years after his daughter’s visit, when an emergency involving his grandchildren awakens him to a new emotional

Walter manages to lighten the tone of the novel by strewing some of his noted wit and humor along the way to this almost satisfactory ending. Throughout, the compassion that pervades all his work is evident, even in the case of the benighted father whose beliefs, at least in large part, nearly wrecked his family It is conceded that he had been a basically good person and loving father before falling into what proved to be a sinister system in the guise of Christian orthodoxy Walter fans familiar with his early work might conjecture that the idea for this novel has been brewing for years. In 1992, as a reporter for the Spokane Spokesman-Review newspaper, he was assigned to cover the confrontation between a family and law enforcement agents in a nearby Idaho community Ruby Ridge. The trouble began when ofﬁcers came to the home of a man named Weaver and his family to serve an illegal weapons warrant. Walter’s initial reporting of what became a bloody standoff eventually led him to write a book about it, ﬁrst called “Every Knee Shall Bow” and later republished as “Ruby Ridge.”

Some historians contend that this historic conﬂict between law enforcement and the Weaver family, members of whom adhered to nontraditional Christian religious beliefs, gave rise to a general national distrust of government — thus leading to the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing and other attacks on civic institutions that continue to the present.

Christian nationalism also has grown stronger more visible and more inﬂuential than most would have anticipated.

Walter has had a few decades since Ruby Ridge to observe and contemplate what he obviously sees as the deterioration of our culture. Walter’s primary aim, as a novelist, was surely to tell an interesting story that people would want to read, which he has done.

But one could take the narrative also as a fable, warning Americans to “Wake up, quit retreating, face the threats to our freedom, do something!”

Jess Walter spent some months in recent years in the New Orleans neighborhood of Bywater, working on writing projects. He is a lifelong resident of Spokane, Washington.

“The Tenant” by Freida McFadden 5. “One Golden Summer” by Carley Fortune

6. “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby Van Pelt

7. “Iron Flame” by Rebecca Yarros

8. “Lights Out” by Navessa Allen

9. “It’s a Love Story” by Annabel Monaghan

10. “Fourth Wing” by Rebecca Yarros

Howard Philips Smith, University of

Press, 520 pages

Smith

Children canbeafather’sbestteachers

As another Father’s Day arrives,I’ve been thinking of atime when fatherhood seemedtochallenge me by giving me what I’d asked for In 2020, my wife andIwere adjusting to newfound roles as empty nesters. Our daughter had started acareerfar away,and our son was in college out of state. We were happy for them and welcomed theirindependence. Sometimes, though, we wondered what it might be like to follow them through just one day,perched near their shoulders as they navigated young adulthood.

In away none of us could have imagined, the arrival of apandemic made our wish possible. Our daughter,not wanting to

me to have aﬁrm handshake and make every saucewith love. Youshowed me how to pick the perfect ﬁsh at the market and to navigate a room full of strangers.

Youbrought me to bucket-list restaurants a world away but reminded me nothing topped New Orleans. Youtaught me the importance of the kitchen table and that,ashumans, we could all relate to food

Youwarned me of the mistakes you made, in hopes Iwouldn’tfollow suit. Youtaught me to clap, cry,orlaugh when friends needed it.You told me to always make extra, in the event someone stops by Youmade me understand that food is the highest form of love. All the memories and all the moments, you and I have shared some special times together.These are just afew of the life lessons I’ve picked up from you along the way You’ve spent your time mentoring those around you, all whilelearning something new every day After all, life is like a great dish. It is all about right balance.

Happy Father’sDay to my oldest friend, my idol, my chef, my dad.

DannyHeitman AT RANDOM

endure thelockdowns alone, returned to stay withusand work remotely.Ashis campus closed andshiftedtoonline classes,our son camehome, too.

It was achallenging time to ﬁll ourhouse again I’d juststarted anew job editing amagazine, and Ineeded to tacklealot of new skills in a very short time. My ofﬁce had also closed, which complicated

With great love and admiration, E.J. Statepoetlaureate Alison Pelegrin wrotethis poem in honorofher father,Irvin Pelegrin

SUCKER Iwas asucker for my daddy,an addict at heart, always hookedonsomething—Drambuie, the cabbage soup diet, Cajundancing, hauling Yankees onthe tour bus up and down River Roadtoogle whitewashed plantations. He once LARPedthe vampire Lestatrising from agrave because he wasasuckerfor AnneRice. He was asucker for Wicks-n-Sticks, speciﬁcally candles shaped like Buddha, and apartment living after hisdivorces.He wenthook,line, and sinker for self-help, especially Dianetics, and though histoenails blackened,heran across thelongest bridge in the world. Twice. Then he took up ballroom dancing.Hewas theworld’sbest drunk, and after he dried out he was asuckerfor AA. He was asucker for fathering off-shoremen bailed from the drunktank, for naming these chainsmoking men my uncles,

my plans for learning theropes. Aquiet corner seemed the best place to sort things out,but I now had trouble ﬁnding one in a household of four that was doubling as aclassroom and workplace. More than once in that strange year,Iremembered my previous interest in watching our children while they traveled through a work or school day.Now,they were both within arm’sreach sometimes persistently so —as we embraced our daily adventures in adulthood.

I’d spent mostofmy professional life in newsrooms —hurly-burly places where working through distraction is an occupational necessity.Iseemed an ideal mentor

thewomen my aunts, and life became apot-luck of talking through the night while the kids slept in cars.

Iwas asucker for sitting under theﬁgtree behind TheCamel Club thinking no one could see me study him,golden-haired and calm,everyone’sfather but mine, asucker for allnighters, for burnt coffee, for not looking away when sobriety’sAdams named the worst horrors of their lives.

From Basketball Hall of FamerSeimone Augustus to herfather, SeymoreAugustus

For Seymore Augustus. Through quiet strength and stories told. There stands aman who showed the way With wisdom deep and a steady mind. His hands were rough, his heart was kind, He taught me how to stand up tall, To rise again withevery fall. He showed that love wears working boots, Andsometimes speaks in silence, roots. He never asked for thanks or praise Each word he gave, was a seed that grew Andshaped thebest in

what Ido.

for thetwo young people under our roof whowere trying to focus through the competing Zoom sessions and phone conversations that kept our house abuzz. But by theend of ourtime together, Ithink Ilearned morefrom our children than they did from me. In those hours of involuntary eavesdropping, when my daughter and son wereinevitably within earshot,I discovered moredeeply thepeople they’d become. It was somethingtohear my daughter accommodate the challenging personalities of corporate culture to broker big business deals. I was equally impressed by our son’sresourcefulness in ﬁnding solutions when his online classes fell short.

So here’shis place, beyond acclaim Arightful spot in the Father’sDay Hall of Fame. Not for records or riches, Butfor being MY DAD, his truest name.

From JacquesRodrigue to hisfather, theLouisiana artist George Rodrigue

Dear Dad, Nearly 12 years since you’ve been gone, yet your presence still guides me daily.You always supported your boys, André and me, and those memories ﬁll my heart withgratitude for the lessons, love, and laughter Irecall our gallery home childhood, playing pool, watching Letterman while you painted, meonmycanvas beside your easel. Iremember you on every adventure, recalling road tripsinthe van withmy friends to art shows from coast to coast. Youinstalled aTV/VCR for Nintendo and movies like Airplane!, Monty Python, and Mel Brooks classics we were probably too young for.While most adults dreaded managing kids, you dove in, spending weeks alone with us, laughing like one of us, making experiences like the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas birthdays unforgettable. OurSaints and LSU fandom bonded us; Mardi

Seeing our children adapt so quickly to the challenges of the lockdowns madememore confident in tackling my own work life. Slowly,infits and starts, the pages of my first magazine issue came together On Father’sDay in 2020, our children surprised me with a framed copy of the issue, which now hangs on my office wall. Their giftwas their wayofsaluting aseason when we’d all been workmates. Their present, within view as Iwrite this, is adaily reminder that forfathers, children can often be the best teachers of all.

Email DannyHeitman at danny@dannyheitman.com.

PROVIDED

Gras was electric with your revelry.For your 60th, we performed an epic Blues Brothers routine. Istrive to honor you, passing your traits and memories to my son, hoping to be the dad you were to me. Youwould’ve been an incredible grandfather We miss you deeply.Thank you. Happy Father’sDay With gratitude, Jacques Rodrigue From television journalist DavidBegnaud to his father,Glenn Begnaud

My dad has always been the guy with all the answers —oratleast the conﬁdence

to pretend he did. Take driving, for example. “Always take right turns,” he preached like it was alaw of nature. Left turns? Dangerous. Reckless. The worst idea in the world. Ibelieved him until Iturned 15, took a left turn, and crashed.

Iwasn’tsoworried about the accident as Iwas about telling him. Turns out, UPS drivers really do take right turns for safety and efﬁciency —but my dad never needed facts to insist he was right. Then one day,asanadult, he said the unthinkable: “I don’tknow.” That shook me. The man whoseemed to know everything was admitting he didn’thave all the answers. That moment mademefeel like I’dgrown up. My dad’snot just about rules and certainty.He helped integrate his high school prom.Hefought for what was right, even if it meantdoing things off-site. That kind of courage and conviction is what Irespect most. So, this Father’sDay,I’m grateful —for his stubbornness, his wisdom,his ﬂaws, and mostofall, his love. He’sthe man whoguided me, sometimes by example, sometimes by sheer force of will, and always with heart.

Happy Father’sDay,Dad. Thanks forbeing you, David

Terminal was one of those.” Albrizio’smurals wereunveiled to the publicin1954, adding to his repertoire of works in Louisiana. At that point, Albrizio’s workhad been displayed throughout the state, seen in Allen Hall on the LSU campus, in the State Capitol, and on the side of aShreveportmuseum, among other locations. Enamored by theculture

Born to an Italian immigrant family in New York City,Albrizio came to New Orleans through an architectural job in the 1920s, where he became enamored

BLACKSMITH

Continued from page1D

Nearby is alarge anvil where Reeves pounds and shapes thered-hot metal.

It’smounted on top of atree stump that’swrapped with athick metal band for support and bolted to the ﬂoor for added stability

Alayer of metal ﬂakes and fragments covering the ﬂoor and thestump is atestament to the hard work that goes on here

Next to the forgeismetal bucket of “green coal” (it’s as black as any coal) and a metal rack that holds hammers, mauls and various toolsusedtoshape red-hot iron

Every toolissteel and heavy,and thereare no computer screens anywhere. Even the rocking chair has aseatmade from metal rods. Reeves joked that the shop seemslikeitbelongs one block over on Industry Street rather than AgricultureStreet.

“I can make just about anythingthat anyone needs out of iron in regardtorestoring old buildings and structures,”Reeves said. “I haven’tfound anything I couldn’tﬁx.”

Smithinginthe family

Listen close enoughto Reeves talkand ahint of a Frenchbayou accent slips in from time to time.

“I got that from our summers playing on the plantation in Donaldsonville,on the family property,whenI was akid,” Reevessaid.

It was those summers in the country where he got his ﬁrst appreciation for ironworking while watching his grandfather repair farm equipment in the blacksmith shop.

Reeves was awelder by trade and blacksmithing shops were disappearing becausedemand for the services had dried up over the years. He got into historic restoration when someone askedhim to make astrap hinge, so he gave them a price that wasn’tcheap, and they wanted to know how fast they could have it.

He realized nobody else was doing historic ironwork restoration with the focus on authenticrestoration and now he’sknown across the Gulf Coastfor his architectural restoration work with afocus on the details.

‘It’smucholder up there’

Thiswill be his third year demonstrating at Williamsburg. For the Juneteenth event last year,herecreated an iron burial cross that was originally made by an enslaved blacksmith from Louisiana named Solomon Williams for his wife, when she died in the early 1800s. The crosssits in the Smith-

of the city’sculture.His ﬁrst majorcommissionwas six frescos at the Louisiana State Capitol, and he joined Louisiana State University in 1936,becoming aformative memberofthe ﬂedgling

artdepartment.

Many of his earlier works were commissioned through theWorks Progress Administration.

Throughout his career, Albrizio remained dedi-

cated to the concept that art should be public and available to everyone.

Bercier described his earlier murals, like his Capitol pieces, as arealism-focused style, depicting daily life.

“His style changed through the years,” Bercier said. He worked proliﬁcally for decades. “As the generalartistic style changed in America, he sort of kept up with it.”

For his terminal work, Bercier said, he spent six monthsstudying Louisiana before even starting tocreate larger sketches.

The artist died in Baton Rouge in 1973.

‘The technique, it’s amazing’ Artconservator Elise Grenier,who has restored

and cleaned multiple Albrizio works across the state, described his painstaking approach and vivid color use, resulting in a product almost visually similar to stained glass.

“The technique, it’samazing,” Grenier said. “It’sjust like touching the wall of the Sistine Chapel. …It’slike a piece of glass or apiece of marble. It’s just extremely well troweled, really smooth, and just just real attention to the proportions, the quality of the ingredients and so on. His workis just so perfect.”

Grenier said the work wasinfairly good condition, although she has noticed someareas that could be restored on recent trips to the panels —she herself

has never worked on this particular piece. Grenier described the longevity of his work.

“It’ll be here forever,long after we’re gone,” Grenier said. “It’ll last longer than alittle wooden shotgun like my house, or anything else. These will be here, like the pyramids. They’ll just last and last because of how well they werethought out and executed.”

Do you haveaquestion about something in Louisiana that’sgot you curious? Email your question to curiouslouisiana@ theadvocate.com. Include yourname, phone number and thecitywhere you live.

sonian.

“I love it up there because that’sabout as oldasitgets in America,” Reeves said “You think everything here is old, butit’smuch older up there.”

Ken Schwartz, master blacksmithwith theColonialWilliamsburg Foundation, first met Reeves at Jazz Fest several years ago when Reeves was doing ablacksmithdemonstration.They quickly bonded. Schwartz wassoimpressed with Reeves that he invited him to Williamsburgtoparticipate in theJuneteenth celebration

Coincidentally,Schwartz grew up in New Orleans, and hisvery ﬁrst introduction to blacksmithingthat inspired his lifelong passion was a blacksmith demonstration at one of theearliest JazzFests in the 1970s.

“Doing historic restoration work requires sensitivity to different methods and designs,” Schwartz said.

“Nobody takesthe time to do that sort of restoration work anymore andthat’swhat makesDarryl so special to not only New Orleans, but theentire Gulf South.”

Annie Irvin, executive director of the BK Historic House and Garden on Chartres Street whichdates to

1826, saidReevesrepaired theiriron fountain and the frontgates of theirbuilding amongnumerous other things.

She saidhealsorecreated many of the “shutterdogs,” the curly S-shapedmetal bracketsthat holds shutters in place andare commonly seen on brick buildings in theFrench Quarter

“Everything in thishouse is really old and we relyon him to repair all of our ironwork,”Irvin said. “Wecould never replace him.”

‘That’sbackbreakingwork’

Theﬁrstthing Reeves admires about any old piece of hardwareisthe craftsmanship. As aman who has done thework, he knows the effort that goes into every piece.

“A lot of this stuff would come from Europe as one big piece of iron, and they hadtocut them intochunks to workwithit. That’sbackbreaking work,” Reeves said. “But they took the time to do it right and it lasted for hundreds of years. Iwantmy work to be here in 200 years.”

Reeves apprenticed under afew blacksmiths and did a lot of self-education, amassingasmall libraryorironworking books that spanned thelast100 years.Unfortunately,that library was lost when ﬂoodwaters from HurricaneKatrina inundatedhis shop and sent Reeves and hisfamily to theirproperty in Donaldsonville fora twoyear evacuation wherehe set up atemporary shop.

Since returning to the city, he hasfocusedontraining

the next generation of blacksmiths.Heco-founded the NewOrleans Master Crafts Guild, whichtrains people in trades that are important to the fabric of thecitylike carpentry,plasterwork and ironwork.

“This is alot of long hot days, heavy work and lots of sweat,” Reeves said. “It’s hard to convince young people that this is aviable living because none of this is easy.” Schwartzrecognizesthe importance of Reeves’ mission, and he shares the urgency to train young people to eventually carry on the trade.

“He’sanartisan in aﬁeld where fewerand fewer young people areinthe trade,”Schwartzsaid. “The work he does is in danger of dying out.”

STAFF PHOTO By JOHN McCUSKER Conrad Albrizio’sintensely colored 1954 murals of Louisiana historycoverthe

Reevesshines up aleaf he made at his workshop.

LOUISIANABAKES

Olivia Regard

On arecent Sunday afternoon,Iset out to have a new experience —to pick my own blueberries at Bluesberry Fields in Carencro, a local organic farm. Rows of bushes with bright berries bursting with ﬂavorgreeted me.

As Iworked my way down each row,Iwas amazed at the size and intensity of color of the berries and found it increasingly difﬁcult not to eat as Ipicked.

Blueberries, or “star fruits” as they were named by the North American Indigenous people because of the ﬁve-pointed star shape that is formed at the blossom end of the berry, are considered asuperfood. The berries are high in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and ﬁber and are touted as one of the most heart-healthy foods around

The picking was asuccess, and Ileft the farm with over 5pounds of the freshest and juiciest blueberries Ihave ever tasted and lasting memories What Idid not have was a plan for what to do with my harvest.

Over the next week, my kids and Isnacked on fresh berries,added the fruit to yogurt bowls and baked afew of our favorite berry-centric treats. Instead of the usual pancakes, Idecided to revisit aclassic French recipe, the clafoutis, which is traditionally made with cherries. While this dish might sound fancy,aclafoutis (“cl-ahh-foo-tee”) is as simple as it comes. The batter comes together easily in asingle bowl and is baked in abuttered dish to achieve acustardy andﬂan-like consistency.

Ialso embraced the chance to tinker with arecipe staple —the blueberry mufﬁn.Ibaked mufﬁns for Sunday breakfast with the intention that any leftovers would become adelicious grab-and-go breakfast or snack once the slowerpacedweekendturned into afast-paced workweek. Finally,Iroasted asmall batch of the berries to serve as atopping for ice cream when acold treat was needed to combat the south Louisiana heat. Iencourageyou to seek out apick-your-own farm or orchard. The experience is fun for the entire family and aunique way to support alocal business, promote sustainability and engage with nature. Iam already planningmynext trip before Louisiana’s short-lived blueberry

son ends. Happy picking!

Blueberry Clafouti

Adapted from “Mastering the Art of FrenchCooking” by JuliaChild, Louisette Bertholle and Simone Beck Serves 6-8 3cups

Zest of one

over thebatter andsprinkle with half of thesugar.

5. Pour theremainingbatter over theblueberries and sprinkle with the remaining sugar.

6. Place thedish in the middleposition of the oven andbakefor 50-55 minutes until atoothpick or knife inserted in the center comes outclean.

7. Sprinkle theclafouti with powdered sugar,ifyou desire, just before serving.

Note: The clafouti will naturally deﬂate as it cools.

BlueberryMuffins

Makes 9mufﬁns 5tablespoonsunsaltedbutter 1/2 cup sugar

1 1/2 cup flour 2cups blueberries Turbinado sugar

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.

2. Brown the butter: Place butter in asaute pan over medium heat. Stir thebutter continuously as it melts. The butter will begin to foam and sizzle. The foam will begin to dissolve, the milk solids on the bottom of the pan will toast, and themelted butter will turn

agolden brown. When this happens, remove the browned butter from the heat and set it aside to cool.

3. Whisk together the sugar,lemon zest, yogurt, egg, vanilla, baking powder baking soda and salt.Add thecooled butter

4. Stir in ﬂour,then fold in theblueberries. Note: the batter will bethick.

5. Prepare muffin tinwith baking spray or muffin cup liners. Using aspoon or cookie scoop, spoon the batter into thenine prepared muffintins.

6. Sprinkle batter with turbinado sugar

7. Bakemufﬁns 20-25 minutes until themufﬁn topsare golden brown and

atester inserted in the top comes out clean.

8. Enjoy the mufﬁns warmwith good, salted butter

Roasted Blueberries

Serves 2-4

1cup blueberries

1 1/2 teaspoons granulatedsugar

Juice from 1/4 to 1/2 lemon (optional, to taste)

1. Preheat oven to 450 degrees.

2. Place blueberries in a shallow roasting dish and sprinkle with sugar.Gently roll the berries in the dish

to coat.

3. Roast for10-15 minutes, rolling the berries once or twice during the roasting process. The aim is forthe berries to release someoftheir juices, but not fully slumporturn to sauce.

4. Remove from the oven and squeeze abit of lemon juice over the berries. Roll the berries in the roasting dish to evenly coat with the lemon juice.

5. Spoon hot, roasted blueberries and juices over ice cream, cheesecake, custard, etc.

Blueberry Clafouti Blueberry

By The Associated Press

Today is Sunday,June 15, the166thday of 2025. There are 199 daysleft in theyear

This is Father’sDay

Todayinhistory:

On June 15, 1904, more than 1,000 people died when ﬁre erupted aboard thesteamboatPSGeneralSlocum in New York’s East River; it remained thedeadliest individual event in the NewYork area until 9/11.

Also on this date:

In 1215, England’sKing John placed his seal on Magna Carta (“the Great Charter”), which curtailed the absolute powerofthe monarchy In 1775, the Second ContinentalCongress voted unanimously to appoint George Washington head of the Continental Army. In 1864,Secretary of WarEdwinM.Stanton signed an order establishing amilitary burial ground which became Arlington National CemeteryinVirginia In 1895, atsunamitriggered by amagnitude 8.5 earthquake struck thecoastof northeastern Japan with waves reachinga height of 125 feet, killing more than 22,000 people In 1934, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed an act making the National Guard part of the U.S. Army in the eventofwar or national emergency In 1934, Great Smoky MountainsNational Park, the most-visited national park in the United States, was established by Congress.

In 1938, Johnny Vander Meerofthe Cincinnati Reds became theonly baseball pitcher to toss two consecutive no-hitters, leadingthe Reds to a6-0 victory over the BrooklynDodgers in the ﬁrst nightgame at Ebbets Field, four daysafter no-hitting the Boston Bees by ascore of 3-0. In 1991, Mount Pinatubointhe northern Philippines exploded in one of the most powerful volcanic eruptions of the 20th century, killingmorethan 800people

In 2020, the U.S. Supreme Court, with a 6-3 vote in its Bostock v. Clayton County decision, ruled that the Civil Rights Actof 1964 protects gay,lesbianand transgender people from discrimination in employment.

Today’sbirthdays: Baseball Hall of Famer Billy Williams is 87. Former MLBplayer and manager Dusty Baker is 76. Actor Simon Callow is 76. Singer Russell Hitchcock (Air Supply) is 76. Chinese President Xi Jinpingis72. Actor-comedian Jim Belushi is 71. Actor Julie Hagertyis70. Baseball Hall of Famer Wade Boggs is 67. Actor Helen Hunt is 62. Actor Courteney Cox is 61. Rapper-actor Ice Cube is 56. Actor Leah Remini is 55. Actor Neil Patrick Harris is 52. Olympic gymnastics gold medalist Madison Kocian is 28.

Aone-starreviewfor afive-star chef

Dear Miss Manners: Iaman executive chef at aﬁve-star restaurant who frequently entertains at home. Ilove to cook creatively and come up with ideas for things theguests have never had done before, usually with success. However,Igot some feedbackafter adinner party that makes me wonder if Imay have breached arule of etiquetteofwhich Iwas unaware.

on. Therewere three different kinds of homemade bread to go withitand homemade ice cream for dessert. No one went home hungry, and the guests mostlyraved about it.

Judith Martin MISS MANNERS

Theinvitations werefor four couples —myparents, my wife’sparents and two other couples —tojoin us for a“very informal Sunday supper” at which themenu was asoup bar with ﬁvedifferent kinds of homemade soup. This wasnot canned condensed soup; this was high-quality, ﬁve-star restaurantseafood chowder,venison minestrone and aMiddle Eastern lamb soup that Ispent alot of time

However,myfatherin-law toldmywife that he was disappointed in ameal that was “just soup.” My father-in-law has never been satisﬁed with anything Ido, so I’m inclined to write him off, but for futurereference, is there some rule I’m not awareofthat an “informal Sunday supper”mustbemore than what Ioffered?

Gentlereader: Recognizing that restaurateurs arefond of garnishing food withwords, Miss Manners will overlook theunnecessary complexity of calling what happened anything other than ameal for family and friends.

Ordinarily,she —like your father-in-law and, she suspects, you as well—would expect ameal to include morethan soup —even good soup, even soup followed by ice cream. Butknowing your profession, your guests were doubtless expecting something out of the ordinary

The charm of this meal was its experimental nature. As you said, no one lefthungry Andwith one exception, whom you know to be generally negative, the guests raved about it. Youmay take this as feedback.You may also tell your wife that it is not at all necessary to pass on any future disgruntled comments from her father

Dear Miss Manners: Iwas invited to ababy shower,and the invitation included alink to an expensive registry

Ihappily RSVP’d, ordered agift and put the date on my calendar Ithen noticed the ﬁne print:

Bring abook of your choice and also apack of diapers. Iamonabudget. The gift was already astretch formeﬁnancially.Now there is an added expense of “bonus gifts.” How do Irespond without being that “cheap” friend?

Gentle reader: Etiquette says that the choice of presents is up to the donor,but Miss Manners is unfortunately aware that the host’sbeliefs may differ. She nevertheless recommends you attend sans book and diapers with your head held high, as mosthosts have the decency not to share what they may be thinking.

Send questions to Miss Manners at herwebsite, www.missmanners. com; to heremail, dearmissmanners@gmail. com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City,MO64106.

Dear Heloise: Take someegg whites and dab alittle of it aroundyour eyes, mouthand forehead, then watch it dry The wrinkles gradually disappear; it’s amazing! It works so good that you may wantto diluteitwith a pinch of water so there’snot too tight of afeeling. Andthis way,you can avoid dry white residue if you use too much. It’sgreat to use before going to a40-year high school reunion.

—N.S., in Spokane,Washington N.S., one of my favorite facials is to combine powdered milk (aboutatablespoon full), acouple of drops of water,and the white of 1egg. (Save the yolk to use withshampoo when youwash your hair.) Mix together these three ingredients until you have asmooth and

Many Americansare fortunate to havedental coverage fortheir entire working life, through employer-provided benefits.Whenthose benefits end with retirement, paying dental bills out-of-pocket can come as a shock, leading people to putoff or even go without care. Simply put —without dentalinsurance, there may be an importantgap in your healthcare coverage.

When you’re comparingplans ...

 Look forcoveragethat helps pay formajor services. Some plans may limitthe numberof procedures —orpay forpreventive care only.

 Look forcoverage with no deductibles. Some plans mayrequire you to payhundredsout of pocket before benefits are paid.

 Shop forcoveragewithnoannual maximum on cash benefits. Some planshaveannual maximums of $1,000.

you shouldn’ttakeyourdental health forgranted.Infact, yourodds of having adentalproblem only go up as you age.2

Treatment is expensive— especially theservicespeople over 50 oftenneed.

Consider these national average costs of treatment. $222 fora checkup .$190 for afilling. $1,213 fora crown.3 Unexpected bills likethis can be arealburden especially if you’re on afixed income.

slightly runny mixture. Apply this to your face with an artist’swide brush. Let it dry and rinse off withwarm water.Pat dry to ﬁnish. —Heloise Housewarming gifts

Dear Heloise: Besides wine, what would make anice housewarming gift? Not everyone drinks alcohol, so Ineed some new ideas for agift. —Sarah B., Grand Forks, North Dakota Sarah, tryahomemade baked good such as apies, brownies, cakes or maybe mufﬁns. Youcan also get someone athrow,maybe ablanket, or even abestselling book to put on their coffee table. Even a board gameora large puzzle is usually welcome. —Heloise Killinginsects

Dear Heloise: If you have ants or any other critters that you don’twant, spray dishwashing soap spray where they are collecting. Youcan even spray

acircle around them to keep them from dispersing further This also works on ﬂying insects. It kills them immediately.So, quit wasting money on harmfulinsect sprays when this works even better! —Cat Lady,via email Cat Lady,most bugs breath through their sides, so anything you can use to stop them from breathing is agood idea. Bay leaves repel cockroaches, and sometimes mint will send bugsrunning so that they can get away from the smell. I trytokeep insects out of the house, so sometimes acommercial insect killer works well outdoors. —Heloise Weddingetiquette

Dear Heloise: I’ve been told that wedding etiquette has changed. What is correct etiquette these days concerning theacknowledgment of whether I’m attending? —Charles T., Hayward, California

Charles, here are the traditional rules about areplying to an invitation: If you receive an invitation to awedding, answer it as soon as you can. If the inner envelope says that “plus ones” are welcome, you may bring a guest with you —but only one guest. If your children’snames are not on this envelope, they are not invited. Today many moreweddings are “adult only” affairs, especially if it’s an evening wedding. If you do not send in your acknowledgment of whether you’ll be attending, do not attend the wedding. The couple must pay fortheir guests, and if they don’tget your RSVP of “yes” or “no,” there may not be aplace foryou. Additionally,if you say that you’re going, you should set everything aside and actually attend. —Heloise Send ahinttoheloise@ heloise.com.

Ask

Hints from Heloise

BY RICH COLLINS Staff writer

Louisiana and South Carolina are bothblessed with historic port cities, picturesquecoastal wetlands and vibrant localcultures.

But over the past quartercentury,the two Southern states of similar size have seen their economic fortunes diverge.

Louisiana, which boasted more people and alarger economy than its Atlantic Coast rival in 2000, has watched its energy-based economy stagnateand its residents vote with their feet by moving away At the sametime, South Carolina has blossomed, attracting some 1.5 million new residents with advanced manufacturing jobs and acoastal region catering to retirees. South Carolina is now thebiggerstate in terms of population and the size of itseconomy,and that growth isn’texpected to slow anytime soon.

IDEAS INNOVATION &

Put bluntly,the Palmetto State has caught up and surpassed thePelican State. And now Louisiana ofﬁcials are tryingto ﬁgure out how to reverse the trend.

BY BLAKE PATERSON

“Over two decades, South Carolina changed both its reality and its image,” said Michael Hecht,CEO of Greater Ne wO rleans Inc., a regional economic development organization.“Louisiana now has to do thesame —this means better jobs and abetter narrative.”

Hecht

ä See GROWTH, page 5E

LEFT: Workers assemble aBMW G45X3SUV at Plant Spartanburg in Greer,S.C. In the last 25 years, South Carolina has blossomed, attracting some1.5 million new residents with advanced manufacturing jobs.

BELOW: A$10 billionMeta data center is being built on aRichland Parish site that the state purchased decades ago during afailedbid to lure the buildingofa Toyota factory. PROVIDED PHOTOS

PotentialbuyersofLouisiana utilityCleco

theysent arequest for proposals to prospective buyers, and that they expect to receive responses within thenextsix months. Public Service Commissioner Jean-Paul Coussan said Cleco also told him Tuesday that it had“formally begun thesales process.” Lewis didn’t see acopy of the solicitation and wasn’ttoldwho it wassentto, though industry experts believe Clecocould be subsumed by one of Louisiana’sexistingutilities Entergy and Baton Rouge-based

Bernhard CapitalPartners were both name-checked as potential buyersinanarticle published Wednesdayinthe trade publicationPeakLoad. Entergy declined to comment through itsspokesperson, Brandon Scardigli. BernhardCapital Partners, whichownsthe natural gasprovider Delta StateUtilities, didn’timmediately respond to a request for comment Cleco declined to comment through its spokesperson,Jenni-

ACleco worker restores power near Slidell after ahistoricsnowfall in January. Cleco, an investor-owned utility, provides electricity to nearly 300,000 customers across 24 Louisiana parishes.

STAFF FILE PHOTOBy SCOTT THRELKELD

Tugboat namedfor longtime riverpilot

BY STEPHANIE RIEGEL Staff writer

In the tight-knit world of Mississippi River mariners,few are as well-known as Capt. Mark Delesdernier Jr

During hiscareer as ariver pilot that spanned more than 40 years, Delesdernier guided more than 6,000 vessels up the lower Mississippi River from his native PilottowntoNew Orleans.

He served as president of the Crescent River Port Pilots’Association for nearly two decades and chaired the board of thePort of New Orleans.

He also codeveloped apatented ladder system, still in production today,that gives marine pilots a safer way to embark and disembark vessels.

Now,Delesdernier,who turns 89 next month, is being recognized with what is ariver pilot’s equivalent of alifetime achievement award. On Saturday,LeBoeuf Bros. Towing, which owns and operates aﬂeet of some four dozen tugs and 90 barges on the Mississippi River and Intracoastal Waterway,will christen itsnewest vessel in Delesdernier’shonor

TheCapt. Mark Delesdernier Jr., atwin-screw tugboat, will be dedicated in aceremony at the docks near Mardi Gras World.

“It’sagreat honor,” Delesdernier said. “Often, they do these things after people havedied. It’sniceto be able to enjoy it now.”

NewOrleans

Alex CelioVeazey has joined Kean Miller as an associate.

Veazey will focus her practice on offshore energy and marine litigation matters. She earned a bachelor’s in mass communication/ journalism and international studiesfromLSU and alaw degree, cum laude, from Loyola University New Orleans College of Law

TessaVorhaben has joined Hinshaw& Culbertson as apartner Vorhabenisa member of the insurance services practice,representing insurance carriers and companies in awide range of matters, including coverage analysis, ﬁrstparty andthird-partyinsurance claims, agent and brokerliability, property and directors and officers liability claim. She was previously an attorney with Baker,Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell &Berkowitz.

She earned abachelor’s, magna cum laude, from the University of Southern Mississippi and alaw degree from Loyola University New Orleans College of Law

Amelia Manning has been named dean of Tulane University’sSchool of Professional Advancement Manning is the former chief operating officer at Southern New Hampshire University.She has morethan two decades of higher education leadership experience. Manning will succeedIlianna Kwaske, associatedean for academic affairs and senior professor of practice, who has served as interim dean of the school since

CLECO

Continued from page1E

fer Cahill.

Cleco’ssale has long been expected. When its current owner, MacquarieInfrastructure and Real Assets, purchased the utility and took it private in 2016 as part of a$4.9 billion deal, it made clear that it planned to sell its majority stake in adecade or so. With that deadline approaching, speculation over the utility’sfuturehas ramped up.

In May,the Louisiana Legislature approved anonbinding resolution urging the ﬁve-member PSC —which will have the final say

40 years.

Afamilyaffair

River pilots operateasa monopoly on the Mississippi River. The staterequires companiesshipping cargo up and down the waterwayto payfor their services on foreignflagged vessels. The ships they help steer are often massive,and crashes can be catastrophic,making the job avital one.

Delesdernier comes from along line of river pilots. In the early

PEOPLE IN BUSINESS

January 2024 followingthe departure of former Dean Suri Duitch. She earned abachelor’sinpsychology from Saint Michael’s College and amaster’sincounseling educationfromthe University of New Hampshire. Manning completed theadvanced management program atHarvard Business School

Dr.Abdul Khan has been named chiefexecutive ofﬁcer of Ochsner RiverRegion Khan will maintain oversight of Ochsnerfacilities and careoffered in Kenner,Luling, Destrehan and LaPlace, including OchsnerMedical Center-Kenner, Ochsner Medical Complex-River Parishes and St. CharlesParish Hospital

He startedasaninternalmedicine resident with Ochsner in 2008. He returned to the hospital system as asenior pulmonary disease and critical care physicianin 2015. In 2023, he was named associate medical director of Ochsner River Region andregional medicaldirectorofsouth shore communityhospitalsand the bayou region in2024. He earned amedical degree from the University of South Alabama. Kahn completed an internal medicineresidency at theOchsner Clinic Foundation and apulmonology fellowship at LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans. BatonRouge

Marlee Pittman Miller hasbeenhired as executive vice president and chief operating officer of Build Baton Rouge

Miller has nearly adecade of experience in community development, federalgrants management and public-private partnerships. She most recently served as director of the Ofﬁceof Community Development for East

over whether asale goes through —toreject anydeal that doesn’t preserve Cleco’scurrent stafﬁng levels at its headquarters in Pineville.

“Cleco has been and remainsone of thebiggest employers in our area,” state Rep.Mike Johnson, R-Pineville, whosponsored House Concurrent Resolution 11, said at acommittee hearing. “I don’twant them to sell thecompanyunless they preserve those jobs.”

As part of its approval of Cleco’s sale in 2016, the PSC required the newownerstoagree to 77 commitments. That includedkeeping the utility headquartered in Pineville and maintaining its existing salaries and beneﬁts for its 1,200 employees. Cleco also agreed not to

1900s,his grandmother’sbrothers were twoofthe ﬁrst membersof theRiver PortPilots’ Association, one of three riverpilot organizations on the Mississippi.

His father’stwo brothers also werepilots. He earned his commissionin1965, and his son, grandsons andnephews arealso all pilots.

“Altogether,there are 11 membersofmyimmediatefamily,” he said. During his nearly half-century

Baton Rouge Parish. Before that, she was director of community development forthe Mid-City Redevelopment Alliance. She earned abachelor’s from LSU andadvanced certiﬁcates in urbanplanning from Harvard University’sGraduateSchool of Design andreal estate finance from MIT’sCenter for Real Estate.

David Johnson has been hired as general manager of the Renaissance Baton RougeHotel

This is Johnson’s second stint with Renaissance Baton Rouge;hewas hiredin2014asdirector of rooms He has 22 years of experience in the hospitality industry

Ashley Hebert has been hired by the Louisiana PolicyInstitutefor Children as senior director of strategy

He be rt has worked as an advocate for issues such as health care access and healthy eating.

She earned a bachelor’sinpoliticalscienceand amaster’sinpublic administration, both from LSU. Around Louisiana

DarrylMiles Jr has joined the staff of Northshore Internal Medicine Associates in Hammond, aclinic of North OaksHealth System,asa nurse practitioner

Miles started workinginthe NorthOaks Medical Center emergency department as anurse technician andregisterednurse, thenasanurse practitioner providing specialized triage andemergency care

He earned abachelor’sand a master’sinnursing, both from Southeastern Louisiana University

raise itsrates until 2020 while also agreeing to aone-timepayment of around $500 each to its customers.

“I’m looking forwardtodoing what’sbest for thestate of Louisiana and the ratepayers of Cleco,” Coussan said.

Macquarie has reportedly hired GoldmanSachsand Moelis &Co. to advise it on the sale, according to PeakLoad.Macquarie declined to comment through aspokesperson, Rachel Waxman. Macquarie’s co-investors in Cleco, British Columbia Investment Management Corp. and JohnHancock Financial, are also expected to sell their interests, according to PeakLoad Email Blake Paterson at bpaterson@theadvocate.com.

grownto700 feet on averageand carry upward of 50,000 tons of cargo, and the Port of New Orleans is trying to build anew deep-water terminal downriver near Violet in St. Bernard Parish to better compete against other coastal ports that havesurpassed it in thehandlingof cargo.

“Somuchhas changed,”Delesdernier said.“Butinsomeways, it’sstill areally labor-intensive, stressful job. River pilots work long hours and havetomanagea lot of stressful situations.”

Delesdernier is also well known from his involvement in political andcivic circles. He served as chair of the Louisiana Stadium andExposition District, better known as the Superdome Commission, during two stints on the board. Notably,he was appointed both by Gov. Edwin Edwards, aDemocrat, and by Gov Mike Foster,aRepublican.

career,Delesdernier witnessed a lot of changes in hisindustry.When he became apilot in the mid-1960s, pilots were just beginning to transitionfrom the useofwhistles to standardradios, he said.

At the time,the average vessel on the Mississippiwas about450 feet long and carried the equivalent of between 5,000 to 10,000 tons of cargo. New Orleans wasone of the busiest ports in the U.S. Today, themassive vessels have

During his time on the board, the commissionﬁnanced the constructionofthe NewOrleansArena,now theSmoothieKingCenter; negotiated anew long-term lease agreement with the New Orleans Saints; and negotiated to bring an NBA franchise back to the city for the ﬁrst time since the 1970s. He wasalso involved in countless civic organizations and causes related to coastal conservation and wildlife.

“I’ve been involved with so many organizations and held so many positions,” he said. “But that’swhat makes life worth living.”

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

Delesdernier

PROVIDED PHOTO

Atwin-screwtugboat ownedbyLeBouefBros.Towing was named forCapt. Mark Delesdernier Jr., whopiloted the Mississippi River for morethan

BUSINESS WITH CRES GARDNER

As office occupancy steadies, higher rents, more foreclosures predicted

BY STEPHANIE RIEGEL Staff writer

During his nearly 30-year career

as a commercial real estate broker, Cres Gardner, vice president and manager of Beau Box Commercial Real Estate’s New Orleans ofﬁce, has weathered market ups and downs. Arguably the past ﬁve years have been some of the most challenging.

The pandemic emptied office buildings, and though workers have since returned, occupancy is still below pre-COVID levels. Rising insurance premiums, interest rates and inﬂation have chilled commercial real estate activity

Adding to the challenges, locally, is a debt bubble that is threatening to burst, as a risky type of mortgage that was used to ﬁnance many of the older high-rises along Poydras Street comes due.

Gardner has a refreshingly clear-eyed perspective on his industry and doesn’t shy away from discussing the headwinds it faces, which is perhaps why he handles leasing for some of the largest ofﬁce towers in the CBD and represents major clients that include Hertz Investment Group, LCMC Health and Fresenius Medical.

In his role with Beau Box, where he has worked since 2012, Gardner is responsible for leasing and managing 2.75 million square feet of space throughout the market, including 1.8 million square feet of downtown ofﬁce space at 400 Poydras Tower, Poydras Center at 650 Poydras and BankPlus Tower at 909 Poydras.

In this week’s Talking Business, Gardner shares his outlook on the local ofﬁce market, where he thinks occupancy and lease rates are headed and whether he expects to see building sales or foreclosures in the months to come. Interview has been edited for clarity and length.

What has been the biggest change you have seen in your nearly 25 years in commercial real estate?

The evolution of the CBD from a business district to a live-workplay neighborhood. It happened gradually and accelerated after Katrina, taking a lot of inventory

Cres Gardner vice president and manager of Beau Box Commercial Real Estate’s New Orleans office, handles leasing for some of the largest office towers in the CBD

out of the market and converting that space to apartments or condos and hotels. I remember around 2010, when (investor) Judah Hertz came to town and we were sitting in my ofﬁce. He looked out of the window and said, “You guys don’t realize how much better it is here today than when I ﬁrst started doing redevelopment in the Warehouse District,” which was 20, 30 years earlier He was right. And I think it is a much better place today than when I came back in 2002

Office space is cheap in New Orleans. Is that a good thing?

It is an incredible value for tenants. It is one of the mysteries of this market to a certain extent that rents have remained so relatively low We are leasing space for $20 a square foot on average. But it is likely to go up because it will have to. Insurance, interest rates and operating expenses are hitting us Most of the landlords I have talked to are pushing rates as much as they can. Maybe 5% to 10% increases over the next two to three years is in the cards, irrespective of what the story is on overall occupancy, which is about 80% downtown So 80% occupancy is not terrible, espe-

cially compared to the hit some cities took during COVID Have we bottomed out?

Before COVID, we were at 87% in the CBD so we have gone from 87% to just above 79%. That is about 700,000 square feet of negative absorption. My hypothesis is that we will stabilize around that. When Shell leaves Hancock Whitney for the River District, we will take a hit, but I don’t see a real dramatic slide. We may even see a slight uptick over the next few years with some buildings performing really well and some dragging us down on the overall average.

Are people coming back to the office?

We are deﬁnitely seeing an uptick in parking garage swipes. That is always a good barometer of how many actual people are in the buildings, regardless of what the occupancy numbers show, and the parking garage activity is up.

My colleague reported in early 2024 about the ticking time bomb of office debt — risky, long-term mortgages,most of which are coming due later this year and next. Nearly 18 months later, has the sky fallen?

Not yet, but it is an issue and you can’t ignore it, especially with maturing, collateralized mortgagebacked security debt. Hertz is ﬁghting very hard to retain the assets they still have here, and they are negotiating with their lend-

ers to retain their assets, some of which are performing at a better level than they were when they bought them. So, it is an evolving story

Last year, we saw the first casualty, when Hertz lost Energy Center Will there be others?

There could be others. It is dif-

ﬁcult to say at this point what is going to happen as the remaining Hertz buildings get to maturity. They will ﬁght for each and every one of them, but there is only so much you can do, and lenders will make decisions based on what is in their best interest.

Is there any new construction in downtown office?

An old 50,000-square-foot warehouse building at 868 S. Peters that was renovated and added on to is a tremendous success story It is leasing for $35 per square foot. Demand has been off the charts. We’re currently negotiating the ﬁnal lease — a 13,000 square-foot space for a national tenant. What is your takeaway from that experience?

There is a segment of tenants who are not price conscious and want a nicer, contemporary environment for their employees.

Also, one of the owners of 868 S. Peters is in the process of redeveloping the Harry’s Ace Hardware

on Magazine Street and is achieving some of the highest rents I’ve seen in this market for office space. They are also introducing a potential new building at 2000 St. Charles Ave. that we are marketing at $39 per square foot, triple net, which will equate to nearly $50 a square foot. It will be interesting to see what emerges.

So are older,high-rise offi

at stephanie.riegel@theadvocate. com.

Howa Small Gulf Fish is TransformingPet Health

Thisarticle is brought to youbythe Louisiana CommercialFishing Coalition LLC

From grain-free kibble to gourmet treats,the pet food aisle has transformed dramatically in the past decade. Petowners arereading labels moreclosely than ever, seeking natural, nutritious ingredients thatsupport their pets’ long-term health. Surprisingly,one of the most valuable ingredients behind manytop-tier pet foods doesn’tcome from alab or afarm. Itcomes from the Gulf Meet Gulf menhaden, asmall, oilyfish caughtoff Louisiana’scoast.Processedinto nutrient-rich oil and high-protein fishmeal, menhaden is afoundational ingredient in premium pet foods acrossthe U.S. and beyond. While not ahousehold name, the benefits it bringstomillions of dogsand cats areprofound—and growing.

Menhaden’s Nutritional Superpowers

Menhaden is prized forits natural abundance of omega-3 fattyacids particularly DHA and EPA. Theselong-chain omega-3s areessential forjointhealth, immune function, and brain development

in pets.Becausepets can’tproduce these nutrients on their own, their diets must supply them—making menhaden oil a critical source. The benefits arewide-ranging. Omega-3s support shinycoats,healthy skin, cardiovascular health, andreduced inflammation. Theyare especially beneficial foraging pets and developing puppies and kittens.Infact,pet food manufacturers increasingly prioritizeingredients that promotespecific health outcomes,making menhaden fishmeal and oil ago-tofor functional formulas ASustainable and Trusted Source Beyond its health benefits,menhaden oil is celebratedfor its sustainability. Louisiana’smenhaden fishery is certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), a global standardfor responsible fishing. Each year,lessthan 2% of the Gulf’s menhaden biomassisharvested under strict,sciencebased regulations “Weharvest menhaden with care knowing it plays avital role notonly in the marine ecosystem but alsointhe health of pets around theworld,”said Ben Landry,a representativeofOcean Harvesters. “Our crewstakepride in delivering asustainable, high-qualitysource of nutritionthatpet ownerscan feel good about.”

Thatmeans pet food brandscan proudly pointtomenhaden ﬁshmeal and oil as sustainable, traceableingredients thatsupport ecosystemhealth and responsible sourcing. Forpet parents who value transparency and environmental stewardship,thatmatters more than ever From the Gulf to the Bowl

Once caught, menhaden arequickly processedatfacilities along Louisiana’s coast.The fish arecooked, pressed, and separatedintotwo main products: fish oil and fishmeal. Theseproducts arethen

reﬁned to meet stringentstandards for animal nutrition.

“AtWestbank Fishing, we’reproud to be part of astory thatbegins in the Gulfand endsinhomes acrossAmerica—nourishing pets and supporting the families who love them,”said Francois Kuttel, Presidentof Westbank Fishing. “Menhaden maynot be well known, but its role in promoting the health and wellbeing of dogsand cats is profound.Fromhealthyjoints to shinycoats this small ﬁsh is making abig difference every day.

Menhaden fish oil is addedtodry and wetpet foods to boost nutrientcontent and flavor. Fishmeal serves as ahigh-protein baseinmanyformulations.Together,these ingredients help support strong muscles sharp minds, and vibrantenergy levels Manufacturersvalue menhaden forits consistency,nutrientdensity, and clean profile. It’sscalable and dependable, which helps companies meet demand while delivering ahigh-qualityproduct

Preferred by TopPet Food Brands Many leading pet food brands include menhaden oil or fishmealintheir formulas Look foritonlabels as “menhaden fishmeal” or “menhaden oil.”You’ll often find it in grain-free, high-protein, or allergy-sensitive recipes,whereclean, animal-basednutrients areprioritized. The global pet food market continues to expand, especially in the premium and functional food segments.Asdemand grows foringredients thatpromotehealth and longevity, menhaden’sprofile is rising. ASmall Fish Making aBig Difference Menhaden maybesmall, but its impact is mighty.Ina marketplace crowded with buzzwords and gimmicks,itstands out for one reason: it works. It’sareal, effective, and responsibly sourced ingredientthat improvespets’ lives As pet ownersseekhealth, sustainability, and peace of mind in the products they choose, menhaden deliversall three. Behind every wagging tail and purring catcould be alittle fish from Louisiana’scoast—quietly making abig difference.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Protectagainst atextscammer infestation

wording.

Fool’s Take: Risks and potential

moreshares of stock), or it might sella portion of thecompany

Michelle Singletary

THE COLOR OF MONEy

Text scams are thecockroaches of our digital lives —resilient and repulsive. With summer travel season starting and families hitting the road, Isuspect many people willstart seeing more scam toll and ticket text messages. On my phone, Ihave seen an increase in threats that Icould face large penalties and even jail time. Others have been warned that their vehicles could be impounded Idelete one, and up popsa notiﬁcation that anotherbogus message has been sent. It’sthe electronic equivalent of that nasty insect.

Just as researchers havedocumented how cockroaches have adapted to become major public health pests, scammers keep ﬁnding ways to attack through our mobile devices. Consider these unsettling similarities:

Invincible: Like cockroaches, which are notoriously hard to eliminate, text scams arepersistent. According to the FBI, cybercriminals are increasingly using artiﬁcial intelligence tools to make text messages more believable.For example, generative AI programs can help with translations, eliminate weird wording and reduce grammatical or spelling errors —making it harder for consumers to catch scams through the old telltale signsof poorspelling or grammar

“These tools assist with content creation and can correct for human errors that might otherwise serve as warning signs of fraud,” the FBI said in one consumer alert

Destructive: Just as cockroaches can harm your health, textscams can lead to ﬁnancial loss, identity theft and emotional distress for victims.Last year,consumers reported losing $470 million to scams that started with text messages, according to data from the Federal Trade Commission —a ﬁvefold increase from what was reported in 2020.However,that jump still doesn’tcapturethe full extent of these cons because most fraud is never reported

Elusive: Like cockroaches that

often hide in cracks andcrevices scam operations can be difficult to trace. Many originate overseas, with texts often sent from an international numberand instructing the consumertoreply with “Y” to receive alinkthatwill take them to ashamwebsite. The goalistosteal personal financial information,money or both. Adaptable: Cockroaches can survive in various environments and adapt todifferent conditions. Similarly,text scams continue to evolve. Block one number, and the scammers create another Scammers also constantly alter their methods and message content. The top fivetextscams include phonypackage delivery notifications, ludicrous job offers, fake fraud alerts and those annoying “wrong number” messages.

Recently,state agencies around the country have saidtheyhave seen an increase in bogus notices about unpaid tolls ortrafﬁc tickets. People are told the state’sdepartment of motorvehicles will soonsuspend their registration and/ordriving privileges if they don’tpay by acertain deadline

Attorney General LizMurrill haswarned Louisiana residents about fake texts that pretend to come from GeauxPass, the state’s ofﬁcial toll collection system.

Murrill said she receiveda scam toll text and warned people to neverclick on suspiciouslinks.

The Takoma Park Police in Maryland, for its part, recently took to social media to warn residents about scammers claiming to be from the MarylandState Department of Motor Vehicles. Irecently received two nearly identical text messages claiming Ihad an outstanding trafﬁc ticket.

“Maryland State Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Final Notice: Enforcement Penalties BeginonJune 5,” they both read First of all, DMV (shorthand for D.C., Maryland and Virginia) is thearea in which Ilive.The correct title abbreviation forthe state agency handling would be theMotor VehicleAdministration.

But Icould see how the threats might get someone to respond. Here’swhat my messagessaidif Ididn’tpay up. This is the exact

n Report to the DMVviolation database.

n Suspend your vehicle registration starting June 5.

n Suspend driving privileges for30days.

n Transfer to atollbooth and chargea35% service fee.

n Youmay be prosecuted and your credit score will be affected

As clever as this con is, please be careful. Here’s howtoprotect yourself andwhattodoifyou get oneofthese text messages.

Squash the scammers: Understandably,you may be concerned about the messages. With so many cashfree toll lanes, you maythink the text is legitimate. But do notengage. Make this your default reaction. Do not click on links,even if you suspect it is ascam and just want to seewhat happens. Do notcallany numbers that are listed. Ever!

Swat them away with your own research: Close the text andlook online for your state’stolling agency.(By the way,triple check that online search because the scammers can often manipulate the search tools to put their contact information at the top.)

Ihaveset up an online account with my state’sMVA ofﬁcesoI can easily check thestatus of my registration andsee if there are anynotices. Irecommendyou do the same. Send theauthoritiesthe scam details: Don’t just delete and move on. It’s important forthe efforts to eradicate these criminalcockroaches that youreport to lawenforcement if you’ve been scammed. One important resourceisthe FTC, at reportfraud.ftc.gov.This helps with investigations.

Use your phone’s “report junk” option if available or forward the bogus text to 7726 SPAM, which helps wireless providers spot and block similar messages, the FTC recommends. It’s frustrating andinfuriating that we have to implement pest control in ourdigitallives, but because these scammers can’t be easily eradicated,ithas become a necessary defense

Email Michelle Singletary at michelle.singletary@washpost. com.

Shares of pharmaceutical company Merck (NYSE: MRK) were recentlydown about 40% over the past year,partlydue to concerns about globaltariff risks. Merck’s first-quarter results showed a2%declinein sales. (Excluding currency effects, revenue grew by 1%.) Merck also said it anticipated $200 million in costsdue to tariffs this year; China hit heavily withtariffs,isanimportant market forMerck. But the situation is volatile.Inmid-May, the U.S. andChina both agreed to significantly reducetariff rates for 90 days. Andsoon after,afederal court blocked President Donald Trump’sglobaltariffs Long-term investors might not worry too much abouttariffs,as theymay be atemporary problem. With Merck stock recentlytrading at alow price-to-earnings ratioof 11 (well below itsfive-year average of 23),investors getadiscount for the stock’sriskand uncertainty. The business may notevenbe thatrisky.Merck is launching a new version of itspopular cancer drug, Keytruda, to offset declines in revenue that may result from an upcoming loss of patent protection It’s also made adeal to develop a GLP-1 weightloss drug. (The Motley Fool owns shares of andrecommends Merck.)

Fool’s School:

Capital structure

When studying acompany as a possible investment, it’s smart to assess factors such as itsrevenue and earningsgrowth rates, itsprofit margins andwhether it appears undervalued or overvalued. You would also do well to give its“capitalstructure” someconsideration

The term refers to how acompany gets the money it needs to achieve various goals, such as grow its operations or acquire another company.Two keyfunding methods are debt andequity. When using debt, acompany will borrow funds from abankorother lenders, or it will issuebonds. (Investors who buycorporate bonds are essentially lendingacompany money,tobepaidback withinterest.) When tapping equity, it will typically issueshares of stock (or

Youcan getanideaofa company’scapital structure by checking outits debt-to-equityratio. Various stock research websites, such as Finance.Yahoo.com, can show it to you. To calculate it manually,look at thecompany’slatest balance sheet. It will be divided intothree sections: total assets, total liabilities andtotal shareholderequity. (Assets minus liabilitiesleaves shareholder equity,the portion of thecompany’s valuethatcan be claimed by shareholders.)

Imagine,for example,thatAcme Co.has $5 in total assets, $3 in total liabilitiesand, therefore, $2 in shareholder equity.Dividetotal liabilities($3) by total shareholder equity($2), and you’llget thedebtto-equityratio— 1.5 —reﬂecting howmuchthe company owes relative to itsshareholderequity. (Someinvestors and analysts tweak theformula,perhapsfocusing only on long-term debtsinstead of allliabilities.)

Debt-to-equityratios vary by company andindustry,but in general,aratioof1.0 or less is considered rather safe. Oneof2.0 or moresuggests that acompany has taken on alot of debt that mustbe serviced,whichcan be risky.

Ask the Fool: What’stoo many?

Is it possible to owntoo manysharesofone stock? —M.A.,Winona,Minnesota

The number of shares youown doesn’t matter that much;think instead of value. For example, whether youown 3shares or 3,000 shares of acertainstock,iftheymakeup 50% of your portfolio,you’vegot too many eggs in onebasket. Astock’s pricedoesn’t mean too much by itself, either.For example,there isn’tmuchdifference between owning 500 shares of a $10 stock (total value: $5,000) or 10 shares of a$500 stock (total value: $5,000). The $10 stock mightactually be overvalued, while the$500 stock mightbeabargain, about to quadrupleinvalue over the coming decade. While it’s importanttodiversify andnot invest too much in anyone stock or industry,you might want to avoiddiversifying so much that youhaveonly atiny portion of your portfolio in anyone stock.Insuch acase, even if thestock triples, it won’tgive your portfolio much of abump.

BeyondtheHeadlines

As oneofthe largest lawﬁrmsinLouisiana,Jones Walker LLPishonored to partnerwith TheTimes-Picayune |New Orleanstosupport theexpandedbusinesssection.

This in-depth reportingwillexplore what businesses aredoing to achievetheir goals, avertthreats, addressopportunities,and advancetheir business objectives.Welook forwardtothe thought leadership andconversationthissection will inspire.

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The diverging paths of the two states comes at a time when the global economy is rapidly changing and states are in a high-stakes competition for jobs and talent.

Bourgeois

In that competition, Louisiana ofﬁcials are looking to South Carolina as a particularly relevant case study of how to grow an economy in a small Southern state overshadowed by bigger richer neighbors. Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan Bourgeois said her staff and a team of consultants took inspiration from successes in South Carolina as they created Louisiana’s new economic plan.

From fabric to F-16s

Louisiana has long been an energy state and that industry powered its economy through most of the 20th century But as the booms and busts of oil and gas ran their course, it struggled to pivot like some of its Southern neighbors.

Scott

South Carolina, on the other hand, responded to the decline of its textile industry a half century ago by making big changes quickly, according to Robert Travis Scott, form er preside nt of the Public Affairs Research Council, a Louisianabased public policy shop, and a civic leader who has lived and worked in both states.

Belt, said South Carolina created that momentum by “building coalitions around ideas of what the state could and should be.”

turing businesses, said the state still has a culture that encourages lobbying for special deals.

“The state refused to accept it was a bunch of palmetto swamps and Charleston,” Keenan said.

The results of those efforts — along with South Carolina’s location between the booming cities of Charlotte, North Carolina, and Atlanta led to big economic gains in the new millennium.

Today, South Carolina produces about $350 billion in goods and services, compared with Louisiana’s roughly $330 billion. And, since 2000, South Carolina has gained roughly 10 times more residents than Louisiana. A report from The Data Center, a Louisiana nonprofit, also points out South Carolina’s big lead in job growth over that span

Pivot problems

Local and state leaders there responded to the economic downturn in the 1970s by developing “shovelready” locations for manufacturing businesses, courting international investment and retraining the state’s workforce.

“South Carolina became highly focused on winning projects — meaning new or expanding manufacturing or major service ﬁrms with good-paying jobs,” Scott said.

The efforts paid off. In 1994, BMW opened a factory near Spartanburg that has become its biggest in the world, employing roughly 43,000 people directly or indirectly through the state, according to a 2023 report.

Mercedes followed in the 2000s. Volvo, Boeing and Lockheed Martin came in the 2010s Today, advanced manufacturing has become South Carolina’s fastest growing industry, according to Joseph Von Nessen, research economist at the University of South Carolina. It’s joined by logistics and health care, both on the rise because of a growing population.

Tulane University professor Jesse Keenan, an expert on the history of the Sun

It’s not as though Louisiana didn’t try to address its economic woes after the petrochemical industry it had relied on crashed in the 1980s.

The state wasn’t stingy with industrial tax exemptions, known to be some of the most generous in the country but its tax system, which included sales tax on investments and a franchise tax on debt, was considered burdensome by business and industry

The state also didn’t diversify or retrain oil and gas workers fast enough or create shovel-ready sites to attract outsiders, according to economic development experts.

By the early 2000s, when the Blanco administration had built a generous incentive package that included a prepared site on 1,700 acres of farmland in a bid to bring a Toyota auto plant to Richland Parish, the state was too late to the game and lost out to Tupelo, Mississippi.

Over the years, Louisiana also has had to combat the perception of cronyism.

Jay Lapeyre, owner of Laitram, one of Louisiana’s most successful manufac-

Decadesof Dedication.

To protecting theemployees who’ve poweredour success since1939.

To an honest, respectful culture built on doingthe rightthing.

To careersthatlast —some spanning more than 30 years.

To competitivebeneﬁts that support health,family, andyourfuture.

“Successful states have universal rules,” he said. “In Louisiana, they like to play whack-a-mole with issues, so you have to kiss ass and get political favors in order to get a reasonable proposition.”

Stephen Moret, who served as LED secretary from 2008 to 2015, said a series of setbacks — including Hurricane Katrina, the Great Recession, the BP oil spill, a drop in oil prices and several other hurricanes — hampered his department’s efforts to execute a “blue ocean” strategy that envisioned creating new opportunities for Louisiana in new types of sectors like tech.

State budget constraints were another challenge, Moret said. But an economy based on older industries was the biggest hurdle.

“Petrochem, oil and gas, and agriculture are highly productive but are no longer strong job-growth sectors,” he said. “Louisiana is underweighted in the industries that are growing jobs.

Changing the mix is difﬁcult and takes sustained effort.”

A page from the playbook

In the first 18 months of Gov Jeff Landry’s administration, LED has notched some signiﬁcant wins.

The list includes the $10 billion Meta data center in north Louisiana, Hyundai’s planned $6 billion steel plant near Baton Rouge, a $17 billion Woodside liquified natural gas project in Lake Charles and an $18 billion expansion of Venture Global’s LNG facility in Plaquemines.

Bourgeois said the total outside investment in the state has reached $62.5 billion since Landry took ofﬁce. More potential projects are in the pipeline, she said.

The state is also looking to south Carolina as an example of what more it could be doing. In March, LED released a new economic plan for the state that calls for an incentive program for high-wage

businesses, creation of a fund for site development and more focus on rural areas and small businesses, much like South Carolina did decades ago. LED also created a new innovation division that oversees a $50 million venture capital fund for boosting homegrown tech companies.

Bourgeois said that the agency is prioritizing energy and process industries meaning everything from petrochemicals to carbon capture — along with agriculture, logistics and professional services.

Some of the changes to the state’s tax and insurance laws this session and last are designed to make the state more competitive. Another potential new law would create more shovel-ready opportunities.

“That’s what other states have done to attract and encourage these massive projects like Meta and the Hyundai steel plant,” said Will Green, head of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry Notably, the Meta project is being built on a site that the state purchased decades ago when it was bidding for the Toyota factory it lost to Tupelo.

“Speed to project is huge,” Green said. “The states that have that are going to win.” Others say Louisiana has to do more to catch up to South Carolina and other neighboring states than implement new economic development strategies They say businesses are attracted to places with good schools, infrastructure, healthcare systems and a clean environment.

“The reason people want to live in places is quality of life, quality of schools, a strong health care system, and vibrant communities,” said Broderick Bagert, cofounder of Together Louisiana, a community organizer “If we want different results we have to do something different.”

Email Rich Collins at rich. collins@theadvocate.com.

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Debutante COTERIE

2025-26

Nell Nolan

NewOrleans'debutante traditionwelcomes60young womentojointhesocialwhirl

Adebutistheformalpresentationof agirloryoungwomantosociety,a socialriteofpassage.Manygenerationshaveenjoyedtheexperienceand cherishthememories.Onceagaininour CrescentCity,anewflockofyoungladies stepsforwardatpartiesandpresentations,joiningthetraditionofdebutantes ofdecadespast.

Theculminationofthisspecialseason occursduringtheweeksofCarnival–and willconcludein2026onMardiGras,Feb. 17–whenthedebutantesappearinthe spectacularballs.Severalaremaidsin multiplecourts.Aselectfewwearcrowns andanswer,albeiteversobriefly,to “YourMajesty.”

Withinthepagesofthefollowingdebutantesection,60profilesappear,relating pertinentinformationabouteachone Theireducation,volunteerism,future goals,interests,hobbiesandparents’ namesallfigureintotheformat.

Astheyinteractwithvariousgenerationsduringtheseason,thedebutantes advancetheirsocialskillsandoftenmake importantcontacts.Theseconnections canbebothasourceoffriendshipand helpinyearstocomeascareersdevelop. Almostalloftheolderdebutantesattend collegesoruniversitiesbeyondNewOrleansandthusjuggleacademicschedules forhighlightsoftheseason,suchas parties,presentationsandCarnivalballs. Whereasmostoftheyoungwomengrew upinthisareaandarefamiliarwiththe roleofadebutante,thosefromaway

havestrongfamilylinkstothecityand itstraditions.

Forthoseinthecoteriewhoattend highschoolorcollegeinNewOrleansor nearby,it’seasierontheirparents.The proximityoftheirdaughtersisabonus becausepreparationsarenumerous. Thereareliststobemadeforparties; photostobetaken;clothestobechosen foralltypesofsocializing;fittingsof specialsuitsordresses,includingthe regaliaofaqueen,whenapplicable; hairdresserappointments; giftsto acknowledgecertainfavors;thank-you notestowrite;andtheconstantlogisticsofgettingtoandfromevents.Some debsgowiththeirparents,otherswitha packofpals.

Stillanotherelementoftheseasonis thetrainingthattheyoungerones(and someolderones)receive.Theylearn etiquette,howtomakeandenjoyinterestingconversation,howtodressand, especially,howtocurtsy.Quiteafewof theolderdebutantes,thecollegeseniors, havealreadyappearedinsub-debballs orpresentations.

Nowtheseasonhasstartedandduring thenexteightmonths,theyoungladies featuredinthedebutantesectionwill beengagedinawhirlwindofactivity sharedbytheirfamilies,friendsand relatedorganizations.Welookforward totheeventsatwhichtheywillbeshowcasedandwillfollowthefivedozenas theyembracethismemorable–and unique–periodoftheirlives.

Debutante COTERIE

2025-26

•DaughterofMr. andMrs. Herschel LeeAbbottIII

•Graduated from TheHeritage School in Newnan,Georgia

•Attends Tulane University

Cecile Amanda ABBOTT

Withhereyeonstartingherownbusinesstopair puppiesandfamilies,CecileAmandaAbbottwill continuetoexpandherskillsindogtrainingand familyeducation,blendingherpassionforanimals andherdesiretoservethecommunity.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.HerschelLee AbbottIIIofNewnan,Georgia,formerlyofNewOrleans.HermotheristheformerTinaCecileFuller.

AttheGeorgehighschool,Cecilegraduatedwith highhonors,andwaspresentedtheFrenchdepartmentawardhersenioryear.Shewasalsoafounding memberoftheComputerScienceHonorSocietyand tutoredstudentsinmathandchemistry.

AtTulane,sheisonthedean’slistandwillstudy inParis.

Thissummer,shewillworkwithadogrescue organizationtogainexperienceinanimalcare andrehabilitation.

Inthepast,shehasworkedasacampcounselor, andwithCanineCompanionsraisingandtraining afutureservicedog.

Asasub-deb,shewasinthecourtofHarlequins.

Cameron Sinclair ANDREWS

Helpingpeoplenotonlylookgoodbutfeelgoodis thefashionablegoalofCameronSinclairAndrews, whoisstudyingbusinesswithaneyetowardup-cyclingandrepurposingsustainablefashion.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.ToddMichael Andrews. Hermotheristhe former Christine “Tina”Perrilliat.

AtNewman,Cameronwasamemberofthehomecomingcourtandyearbookcommittee,captainofthe crosscountryteamandamemberofthetrackteam. ShewasalsopresidentofCampAble,aclubforchildren andadultswithmentalandphysicalspecialneeds.

AmemberofDeltaDeltaDeltaattheSouthCarolina college,sheisinthehonorscollegeandonthedean’s andpresident’slists.ShestudiedinInnsbruck,Austria, takingbusinesslawandpsychologycourses

Shehasworkedintheretailandchildcaresectors andasacampcounselor

Duringhersub-debyears,shereignedasqueenof LesPierrettesandwasinthecourtofApollo

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.Todd MichaelAndrews

•Graduated from Isidore Newman School

•Attends CollegeofCharleston in SouthCarolina

Patricia Randle

AUCOIN

Socialmediamarketingwillbethetaskfor thesummerforPatriciaRandleAucoin,who ismajoringinbusinessadministrationand hopestoworkforaDallas-basedmarketing agencyinthefashionandentertainmentareas inthefuture.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.LeonardHenryAucoinJr.Hermotheristheformer MargaretRamseySarpy.

AtSacredHeart,Triciawasastudentcouncilrepresentative,graduatedwithhighest honorsandparticipatedinmocktrial.Shewas alsoanexchangestudentatSacredHeartin Vienna,Austria

AttheFortWorthuniversity,sheisa memberofDeltaDeltaDeltaandhasserved astheassistanttothechapter’sdirectorof ceremoniesandrituals

Shehasworkedasasocialmediaintern intheretailandfitnesssectorsandwasthe co-founderandmanagerofNOLABabysitting. Inpreviousseasons,shewasinthecourtsof Squires,LesPierrettesandApollo.

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.Kristen MichaelBaumer

•Graduated from Louise S. McGeheeSchool

•DaughterofMr. andMrs. LeonardHenry Aucoin Jr

•Graduated from Academyof theSacredHeart

•Attends TexasChristian University in Fort Worth

Emma Rose BAUMER

Therapidlygrowingfieldofgeriatriccareand nutritionistheplanforEmmaRoseBaumer, whoiscurrentlystudyingexercisesciencebut alsowantstoattendnursingschoolandwork inthefieldoflongevity.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Kristen MichaelBaumer.Hermotheristheformer MollyMasterson

AtMcGehee,EmmaRosewasafour-year memberofthecrosscountry,soccerandtennis teams,servingascaptainofcrosscountryand tennisteams.Shewasthejuniorclasspresident andaLouisianaYouthLeadershipdelegate.She alsovolunteeredwithGraceattheGreenlight helpingthelocalunhousedpopulation.

AttheSouthCarolinacollege,EmmaRose ishistorianforDeltaDeltaDeltaandhas internedintheschool’sathleticdepartmentas asportsnutritionist.

Shehasalsoworkedlocallyasalifestyleand activitiesdirectorintheeldercarearena. Asasub-deb,shewaspresentedattheball ofLesPierrettes.

•Attends CollegeofCharlestonin SouthCarolina 2025-2026

NewOrleans Debutante Section

WriterandEditorVictorAndrews

FeaturesEditorAnnetteSisco◆SocietyColumnistNellNolan DesignandLayoutDoraSison,GavinDonaldson

Marche Marie BEALS

Acareerinmedicine,particularlyasan orthopedicsurgeon,iswhereMarcheMarie Bealswouldliketochartherfuture

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs. WillardChesterBeals.Hermotheristhe formerMoniqueErinVinson.

AttheGardenDistrictschool,Marchewas intheNationalHonorSociety,wasco-chair oftheAmericanCancerSociety’sRelay forLifeforindependentschoolsandwasa McGeheeCitizenshipGirl.Shealsoreceived awardsinphysics,biology,chemistry,the JanePharrGageCommunityServiceAward andL’UnionFrançaisePrixd'Excellence.

AttheBatonRougeuniversity,sheison thepresident’shonorrollandamemberof DeltaGammaandservesasthePanhellenic CouncilDirectorofAcademics.Sheisalsoin theLSUNarrativeMedicineCohort.

Shehasworkedasamedicalassistant inaBatonRougeclinic,anundergraduate researchassistantandworkedinthefood serviceindustry,aswellasvolunteeratChildren’sHospital,HabitatforHumanityand SecondHarvestFoodBank

Inearlierseasons,shewaspresentedatthe LeMoynedeBienvilleClubPresident’sBall.

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.Willard ChesterBeals

•Graduated from Louise S. McGeheeSchool

•Attends LouisianaState University

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.Gregory CharlesBensel

•Graduated from Isidore Newman School

•Attends TexasChristian University in Fort Worth

KateFaulkner BENSEL

Blendingherloveoftravelandherleadership,KateFaulknerBenselwillleadatripto SloveniathroughMoondanceAdventures, anorganizationthatspecializesinoutdoor immersiveleadershiptravelforteens.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.GregoryCharlesBensel.Hermotheristheformer JaneNelsonWestervelt

AttheUptownschool,Katewasthe secretaryofthestudentbodyexecutive committeeandreceivedtheRobertJ. PfisterAwardforSchoolSpiritandthe headofschool’sawardforexcellenceof achievement.Shewasalsocaptainofthe volleyballteam.

ATri-DeltatTCU,sheisalsoonthedean’s listhonorrollintheBobSchiefferCollege ofCommunicationandwillbeacohort memberfortheStudentGovernmentAssociationFrogAidesinthecomingyear.

Shehas previously worked as an interninhealthcaremanagementand asacampcounseloratGozzerRanchin Coeurd’Alene,Idaho

Duringhersub-debtenure,shewasin thecourtsofSquiresandOsiris.

Adelaide Elizabeth BENZMAN

Workingwithchildrenhasencouraged AdelaideElizabethBenzmantocontinueher volunteereffortstohavealastingimpacton youngpeople,particularlythroughtheBoys andGirlsClub,andtohelpencouragetheir personalliteracygrowth.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Scott JayBenzmanofHouston,Texas.Hermotheris theformerPennyAnneCase,originallyfrom NewOrleans.

AtSt.Agnes,shewasamemberofthe NationalHonorSociety,onthedean’slist,a campusministerandamemberoftheStrake JesuitandSt.AgnesAcademyMixedChorus.

The“Aggie”isamemberofPiBetaPhiand volunteersatBoysHope/GirlsHopeandthe HoustonFoodBank.Sheisstudyinghistory andbusinesswithhopesofpursuingadegree inlaw.

AdelaidehasworkedintheretailindustryandasacounseloratCampNakanawa inTennessee.

Inpreviousseasons,shewaspresentedat theHoustonGirls’CotillionandtheLeMoyne deBienvilleClubPresident’sBall

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.Scott JayBenzman of Houston, Texas

•Graduated from St.Agnes Academy, Houston

•Attends TexasA&M University at CollegeStation

Lyden Henriette BLAND

Withplanstoattenddentalschoolin herfuture,LydenHenrietteBlandhasbeen interningwithlocaldentalprofessionalsto makethatgoalhappen.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Clay VallonBland.Hermotheristheformer ShannonMariePierson.

AtSacredHeart,shewaspresidentof theNationalHonorSocietyandtheBring ChangetoMindorganization.Shealso receivedthehighesthonorsmeritcard AtUGA,sheisamemberofKappaKappa GammaandthePre-DentalandPre-MedicalAssociation,theAmericanMedical Women’sAssociationandtheChristian MedicalandDentalAssociation.

Inadditiontoherworkwithlocaldental professionals,shehasalsoservedasa campcounselor.

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.ClayVallonBland

•Graduated from Academyofthe Sacred Heart

•Attends University of GeorgiainAthens

DebsByTheNumbers

Youngwomenintroducedinthisspecialannualsectionwhowillmake theirdebutthisseason,whichrunsthroughCarnival2026.

Organizationsrepresentedbythedebutantes.TheyareTheBachelors' Club,LeDébutdesJeunesFillesdelaNouvelleOrléans,theDebutante Club,theMid-WinterCotillion,theOriginalIllinoisClub,thePickwick ClubandtheYoungMenIllinoisClub.

Alice Lane Read CALHOUN

Theuniquefieldofprostheticsandhelping personswithdisabilitiesobtainnecessary accommodationsareareasofinterestforAlice LaneReadCalhoun,whoispursuingengineeringeducationtowardthatend.

Sheisthedaughterandstepdaughterof Drs.AndrewandSuzanneHallCalhounand stepdaughteranddaughterofMr.andMrs CharlesJohnMollIII.Hermotheristheformer JayeMicheleAndras.

InadditiontoattendingSacredHeart, LaneystudiedattheNewOrleansCenterfor CreativeArts.ShereceivedseveralScholastic VisualArtsAwardsandrepresentedLouisianaintheCongressionalArtCompetition. ShealsostudiedinMadrid,Spain,atthe Pradomuseum.

BeforetransferringtotheBostonuniversity,LaneystudiedartatthePrattInstitutein Brooklyn,NewYork

InMassachusetts,sheisamemberof PhiSigmaRhoandthePowertrainTeamof NortheasternElectricRacing.Sheservesasa teachingassistantforengineeringdesignand researchesintheMicro/NanoBiomedical CharacterizationLab.

LaneyreignedasqueenoftheNewOrleansSpringFiestaandwasintheChildren’s CarnivalClubcourt.Sheisamemberofthe NationalSocietyofColonialDamesofAmericaandDaughtersoftheAmericanRevolution.

•Daughterand stepdaughter of Drs. Andrew andSuzanne Hall Calhoun andstepdaughterand daughter of Mr.and Mrs. CharlesJohnMollIII

•Graduated from Academyofthe Sacred Heart

•Attends Northeastern University in Boston

Eleanor Katherine COWAN

EleanorKatherineCowanplanstohelppeople throughoccupationaltherapyassheeyesafuture asadoctorofoccupationaltherapyafterstudying attheBatonRougeuniversity.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Robert WilliamCowanofNewIberia,formerlyofNew Orleans.HermotheristheformerNanineSimmons d’Aquin.

AttheAcadianaschool,Eleanorwasontheheadmaster’slist,amemberoftheCommunityService Clubandwasonthevolleyballteamforfouryears.

ADeltaGammamemberatLSU,sheisthedirectorofparentrelationsforthesorority.Sheisalsoa memberoftheKinesiologyClubandvolunteers forMiracleLeague,whichhelpsyoungpeoplewith specialneedsparticipateinbaseball.

EleanoriscurrentlyworkingasaphysicaltherapytechwithaBatonRougeclinic.

Asasub-deb,shewasinthecourtsofSquires andApollo.

• Daughter of Mr.and Mrs. Robert WilliamCowan

•Graduated from EpiscopalSchoolofAcadianainCade

•Attends LouisianaState University

Cameryn McKenzi DAVIS

MedicineiscallingCamerynMcKenzi Davis, whileshe sets hersightsona careerinpediatrics,emergencymedicine orneurology.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Cavin MichaelDavisofAtlanta,Georgia,formerly ofNewOrleans.HermotherisDr.Claudine DavillierDavis

AttheNewOrleansschool,Camiisa seniorintheCertificateofArtistryforDance andBiomedicalSciencesprograms.

DuringtheupcomingCarnivalseason, Camiwillbepresentedattheannualballof theOriginalIllinoisClub.

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.

CavinMichael Davis

•Attends TheWillowSchool

SidneyIsabelle DAVIS

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.Brandon EricDavis

•Attends Benjamin Franklin High School

Asaneighth-generationNewOrleanian, SidneyIsabelleDavisisproudofherroots andconnectiontothecity’svibrantculture andcommunity.FluentinFrenchanddevoted tojazzpiano,sheplanstocontinueenjoying themusic,languageandtraditionsthat haveshapedgenerationsofherfamily,even asshepursuesnewhorizonslikemedicine ordentistry.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Brandon EricDavis.HermotheristheformerTiffany LeighDelery.

AtFranklin,sheisamemberoftheNational HonorSocietyandthesoftballandvolleyballteams.ShealsoparticipatesintheJazz FestFoundation’sHeritageSchoolofMusic programandisaLouisArmstrongJazz Scholar.SheisanofficerandawardandscholarshiprecipientintheKnightsofPeterClaver, Court50,JuniorDaughter.

Hervolunteereffortsincludepeertutor, counselorforLakeVistaUnitedMethodist Church’sVacationBibleSchool,assisting residentsatBellevilleEstatesNursingHome andhelpingattheLower9FoodPantry.She hasparticipatedintheNewOrleansSaints ToyDrive,LeukemiaandLymphomaSociety fundraising,andinstalling“LittleLibraries” topromoteliteracy.

DuringCarnival2026,shewillbepresented asadebutanteoftheseasonattheballofthe YoungMenIllinoisClubandotherCarnival organizations.

Hazel Kathryn DRURY

HazelKathrynDrury’spassionforadventureandchallenge,coupledwithherdeep desiretohelpothers,fuelsherdetermination topursueacareerinmedicine.Sheexpectsto attendmedicalschoolinthenextfiveyears andstartresidency.

KateisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Lloyd LeonardDruryIII.HermotherisDr.StacyAnn SchmidtDrury.

AtNewman,KatewasaNationalMerit Scholarandcaptainofthecrosscountry squadandonthesoccerandtrackteams

AtChapelHill,sheisamemberofKappa DeltaandPhiDeltaEpsilon,theinternational medicalfraternity.

ShewillbetravelingtoBelizetoserveas aMoondanceAdventurecounselorguiding campersinthediscoveryofnewskillsand encouragingthemtopushtheboundariesof theirownpotential.

DuringpreviousCarnivalseasons,Kate wasinthecourtsofHarlequinsandMystery

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.Lloyd LeonardDrury III

•Graduated from IsidoreNewmanSchool

•Attends University of NorthCarolinaatChapelHill

Taylor Lee ELLIOTT

Withhereyesetonacareerinthefinancialsector,TaylorLeeElliottisworkingthis summerasaninternforaninvestment bankingcompanyinNewYorkCitybefore returningtoacademiainthefall.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs. EdwardSporlElliott,formerlyofSanFrancisco,California.Hermotheristheformer ErikaFortuneLitchfield.

AttheCaliforniahighschool,Taylorwas editorofthestudentnewspaper.

AttheLexington,Virginia,university, sheisamemberofKappaAlphaThetaand theWashingtonandLeeInvestmentGroup Duringapreviousseason,Taylorwas presentedattheCaliforniaPacificMedical Center’sDebutanteBall.

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.EdwardSporl Elliott

•Graduated from RedwoodHighSchoolinMarin,California

•Attends Washington andLee University in Virginia

Ashley Conner ELLIS

Duringthesummer,AshleyConnerElliswillbe workingasaresearchanddevelopmentengineeringinterntohelpdesignanddevelopminimally invasive,life-savingstroketechnologieswithplans tobecomeabiomedicalengineerfocusedonneurologicaltechnology.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.William ConnerEllisIII.HermotheristheformerKelly MillsCowan.

Thesalutatorianofhergraduatingclassat SacredHeart,AshleyreceivedtheBauschand LombScienceandOchsnerFuturePhysician awards.ShewasonthesoccerteamandwaspresidentoftheNOLABirthdayBoxesorganization, whichprovidesgiftsforresidentsofChateaude NotreDameAssistedLiving.

AttheVirginiauniversity,sheisamemberofPhi BetaKappaandPhiEtaSigmahonorsocieties.She istheincomingpresidentoftheSocietyofWomen EngineersandisinvolvedintheLEADProgram, MechanicalDesignClub,KappaKappaGamma andtheOutingClub.Shehasalsostudiedabroad inMadrid,Spain.

Afterherundergraduatework,Ashleyhopes toattendgraduateschoolinneuralengineering andworkonneurologicaltechnologiessuchas brain-machineinterfaces,neuralimplantsand deep-brainstimulationsystems

Asasub-deb,shewasinthecourtsofLesPierrettesandApollo.

•DaughterofMr. andMrs William Conner EllisIII

•Graduated from Academyof theSacredHeart

•Attends Washington andLee University in Lexington, Virginia

SusanSledge ELLIS

SusanSledgeElliswouldliketoseeherself asamuseumcuratorinthecomingfewyears, keepinganeyeonthepastandfutureatthe sametime.AndspendingthesummerstudyinginLondon,England,willbeafittingstep towardachievingthatgoalasshewillbe exposedtovastamountsofhistoryandsome oftheworld’sbestmuseums.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.John CothranEllis.HermotheristheformerAnna MargaretBurge.

AttheGardenDistrictschool,Susanwason theHonorCouncil,workedwiththeAmerican CancerSocietyRelayforLifeandwasinthe school’stheatertechnicaldepartment.

AttheTennesseeschool,sheisamember ofAlphaOmicronPi,theAmericanCancer Societyand MetamorphosisProject for theUnhoused.

Inthepastsheworkedasacounselor atRockbrookCampforGirlsinBrevard, NorthCarolina.

In previous Carnivalseasons,Susan reignedasqueenoftheballforSquiresand wasinthecourtsofLesPierrettesandApollo.

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.JohnCothran Ellis

•Graduated from Louise S. McGeheeSchool

•Attends Rhodes CollegeinMemphis,Tennessee

Mary Roberts FAVOR

LondoniscallingMaryRobertsFavor andshehopestofindajobinthefast-paced sectorofhospitalityafterhavingstudied abroadintheUnitedKingdomandworked asasales,marketingandeventsintern.

SheisthedaughterofMr.GeorgeMichael FavorandMs.JoyRobertsFavor.

At theUptownschool, Mary wasa memberofthetrackandfieldteamand workedwithHabitatforHumanity,HelpingHandsofNewOrleansandservedasa co-leaderfortheBalloonProjecttosupport women’ssheltersinthegreatermetropolitan NewOrleansarea

At‘Bama,sheisamemberofKappa KappaGammaandhasworkedwiththe JedFoundation.

Maryhasalsoworkedinthelocalhospitalityindustry.

•DaughterofMr. George Michael Favorand Ms.Joy RobertsFavor

•Graduated from Isidore Newman School

•Attends University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa

Piper Katherine FRANKS

PiperKatherineFranksishopingto returntoherhometownandestablisha careerinsalesandmarketingwhenshe hascompletedherstudiesinthestate’s capitalcity.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Zeljko StephenFranksII.Hermotheristheformer AshleyElizabethDanos

AtMcGehee,Piperwasamemberofthe NationalHonorSocietyandthephotographyeditorfortheyearbook.Shewas alsoamemberofthesoccerandcross countryteams.

AtLSU,sheisamemberofChiOmegaand servesasthesecretaryandplaysontheorganization’ssoccerintramuralsquad.

Inpreviousseasons,shewasinthecourts ofProphetsofPersia,AtheniansandOlympians.ShewasalsopresentedattheLeMoyne deBienvilleClubPresident’sBall

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.ZeljkoStephen Franks II

•Graduated from Louise S. McGeheeSchool

•Attends LouisianaState University

Kelsey Grace FRENCH

Sarah Crusel HENRY

hopestofollowinher craftherknowledgeand eerinveterinaryscience. ofDr.andMrs.Edmund eristheformerMiriam eUptownschool,Sarah gymnasticsteam ajoringinbiochemistry appaKappaGamma aveterinaryhospital lunteeredwiththeUVA entandasaresearch ancerCenter. ahwasinthecourt

andMrs.Edmund

om Isidore ol sity of Virginia in

KaleyJanell HILL

ThesportinglifeisinthefutureforKaleyJanell Hillasshehopestostudykinesiologyatcollegeand learnmoreaboutsportstraining

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Demetrius KirbyHill.HermotheristheformerConneyValencia AttheUptownschool,Kaleyplaysforthebasketballteamandisasportstrainerforthefootballand basketballteams.

DuringtheCarnival2026season,shewillbe presentedbytheYoungMenIllinoisClub.

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.Demetrius KirbyHill

•Attends De La SalleHighSchool

DebsByTheNumbers

StudentsfromIsidoreNewmanSchool, thelargestnumberofstudents.

Numberofstatesthedebutantescallhome, includingLouisiana(fromNewOrleans,Metairie, BatonRouge,Lutcher,NewIberia),Georgia(Atlanta, Newnan)andTexas(Houston).

LillianLair HOOPER

Thefashionandbeautyindustrieshave appealforLillianLairHooper,andshewould liketohelpbuildasustainablefuturein thoseindustries.

LillyisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Andre vonKurnatowskiHooper.Hermotheristhe formerKristenElizabethAnzelmo.

AtNewman,shewastherecipientofthe AbrahamGoldbergMemorialPrizeandwas activeinsportsmedicine

AtUT,LillyisamemberofKappaAlpha ThetaandtheTexasAdvertisingGroup.She wasalsoacampusambassadorforSupergoop!suncareproducts

Shehasworkedasaninterninthehome decorsector.

Duringhersub-debyears,shewasinthe courtsofSquires,OsirisandApollo.

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.Andre vonKurnatowski Hooper

•Graduated from IsidoreNewmanSchool

•Attends University of TexasinAustin

DebsByTheNumbers

Numberofstudentsthatattendorattended AcademyoftheSacredHeart

ElizabethAdlynn

JOHNSTON

Thoughherstudieshavetakenhertothe stateofGeorgia,ElizabethAdlynnJohnston wouldliketoreturntoherhometownofNew Orleansandjointhebusinesscommunityin marketingandpublicrelationsoradvertising

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Robert ReedJohnstonandMs.MichelleDianeKirtley

AttheGardenDistrictschool,Elizabeth wasstudentbodyvicepresident,amember oftheNationalHonorSocietyandanhonor graduate.Shewasalsoco-captainofthe tennisteam.

AtUGA,sheisamemberofKappaKappa Gamma,theWomeninBusinessClubandthe PublicRelationsStudentSocietyofAmerica aswellastheadvertisingclub.Shehasalso studiedinInnsbrook,Austria

Shehasbeenaninterninthemedical sector,andworkedintheretailsectoranda tennisinstructor.

Asasub-deb,Elizabethwaspresentedat theLeMoynedeBienvilleClubPresident’sBall.

•DaughterofMr. Robert Reed Johnston andMs. Michelle DianeKirtley

•Graduated from Louise S. McGeheeSchool

•Attends University of GeorgiaatAthens

Vivian Bryce JONES

VivianBryceJonesistakingabreakfrom academicendeavorstopursueherwriting careerandputthefinishingtouchesonher secondalbum,dueforreleasethissummer withthetentativetitle,“SheddingVelvet.”

SheisthedaughterofMr.JamesRufusJones IIIandthestepdaughteranddaughterofMr andMrs.SamuelWagnerV.Hermotheristhe formerCathrynBoydAbbott

WhileattendingtheCaliforniahighschool, shewasamemberoftheRussianLiterature BookClubandthefilmscoringclub,and recordedherfirstalbum

AttheVermontcollege,shewasamember oftheNederlandseConversatieclub(Dutch conversation club)and worked on her secondalbum.

Shehasalsopublishedshortfiction. Vivian hasalsoworkedinthe retail sectorlocally.

•DaughterofMr. JamesRufus JonesIII andstepdaughterand daughter of Mr.and Mrs. Samuel Wagner V

•Graduated from IdyllwildArts AcademyinIdyllwild,California

•Attends Bennington College in Vermont

McKenzie Elizabeth JORDAN

NeuroscienceholdsappealforMcKenzie ElizabethJordan,andshehopestosome daybecomeaneurosurgeonwithagoalof usingtheknowledgetohelpfindsolutions toaddressspecificneedsinunderrepresentedcommunities.

Sheisthe daughter of Mr.Darnell JordanandthestepdaughteranddaughterofMr. andMrs.Antonio Kermit Verrett.HermotheristheformerAmber TheresaMcKnight.

ArisingseniorofFranklin,sheisa memberofthestepdanceteamandthe BlackCultureClub

ShehasworkedwithYAYA(YoungAspirationsYoungArtists,Inc.)andtheAnthony BeanPerformingArtsprogram. This summer,she will work with aneurosurgeon. DuringtheCarnival2026season,she will be presentedbythe YoungMen IllinoisClub

• Daughter of Mr.Darnell Jordan andthe stepdaughter anddaughterofMr. and Mrs. AntonioKermitVerrett.Her mother is theformerAmber TheresaMcKnight.

•Attends Benjamin Franklin High School

2025-26 Debutante Coterie

CecileAmanda Abbott CameronSinclair Andrews

PatriciaRandle Aucoin

EmmaRose Baumer

MarcheMarie Beals

KateFaulkner Bensel

AdelaideElizabeth Benzman

LydenHenriette Bland

BrooklynBonny Boe NaomiMarie Bouie

AliceLaneRead Calhoun

EleanorKatherine Cowan

CamerynMcKenzi Davis

SidneyIsabelle Davis

HazelKathryn Drury

TaylorLee Elliott

AshleyConner Ellis

SusanSledge Ellis

MaryRoberts Favor

ElizaBrandon Favrot

PiperKatherine Franks

KelseyGrace French

JulianneQuaid Good

CarolineLeBon Henry

SarahCrusel Henry KaleyJanell Hill

LillianLair Hooper

ElizabethAdlynn Johnston

VivianBryce Jones

McKenzieElizabeth Jordan

SamanthaJordan Knister

AlyssaMackenzie Larks

SusanAnne LeClercq

CarolineGrace LeBourgeois

AlexisMarie Lewis

SydneyCarol Mason

BaileighCy McFadden

KennedyAnn-Maria Miller

AlannaThibodeaux Mogilles

LucileMcGlinchey Monsted

Thenumberofdebutantespresented byLeDébutdesJeunesFillesdela NouvelleOrléans,thefirstpresentation eventoftheseason.Presentationswill continueduringthefallandholiday season,endingduringCarnival2026.

DebsByTheNumbers

Numberofstatesandthe DistrictofColumbiainwhich thedebutantesattend orattendedhighschool, includingLouisiana,California, Georgia,TexasandVirginia

NumberofstatesandtheDistrictof Columbiawherethestudentsattend college,includingLouisiana,Alabama, Georgia,Kentucky,Massachusetts, Mississippi,NorthCarolina,South Carolina,Tennessee,Texas,Vermont, VirginiaandWashington,D.C.

MadeleinePaige Morrison AlexandraKay Murphy

SloaneAlexandra Paysse

LucyClaire Perschall

CarolineStaples Picou

MasonElisabeth Poole

ShaydeHarmoni Randolph

BriannaMonaé Raphael

BrookeColeman Reiss

ElizabethKathleen Robert AlainyChiloh Roche

LillianMargaret Roussel

AddisonMorgan Roussell

ElizabethMcLundieBolton Schmidt TaylorAlexis Stokes

HelenClaire Thompson

DebsByTheNumbers

NumberofhighschoolsinLouisiana attendedbythecoterie

Saman Jordan SusanAnne LECLERCQ

SusanAnneLeClercqwillblendherloves ofadventureandtraveltogetherthisfallwhen shetacklestheNewYorkCityMarathonto raisefundsfortheMichaelJ.FoxFoundation andinmemoryofherlategrandfather,E. DouglasJohnsonJr

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Frederic TheodoreLeClercq.Hermotheristheformer CourtneyReadJohnson.

AtSacredHeart,Susanparticipatedin competitiveequestrianeventsandinthe SacredHeartGlobalExchangeprogramin Vienna,Austria,andDublin,Ireland.Shewas alsotheLeukemiaandLymphomaSociety studentoftheyear,receivedthecitizenship awardandwasamemberofthegolfteam

AtTulane,sheisamemberofKappaKappa GammaandmostrecentlystudiedinCape Town,SouthAfrica.Shehasalsovolunteered withcancerpatientsatManningFamilyChildren’shospital.

Withhereyeonafutureinthebusiness aspectofthefashionindustry,shehasinterned inthesectorinNewYorkandLosAngeles.

Duringhersub-debseasons,shewasinthe courtsofSquiresandLesPierrettes.

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.FredericTheodoreLeClercq

•Graduated from Academyofthe Sacred Heart

•Attends Tulane University

Caroline Grace LEBOURGEOIS

Afutureinchemicalengineering is the hopeforCarolineGraceLeBourgeoisasshe workstowardthatgoalatthe university in Charlottesville,Virginia

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Charles ClaiborneLeBourgeoisJr.Hermotheristheformer HelenGraceBallard.

AtNewman,Ninawasawelcomeambassador andteamcaptainforRelayforLife,wascaptainof thesoccerteamandamemberofthetracksquad

AtUVA,sheisamemberofKappaKappaGamma andservesasvicepresidentoffinance,isonthe dean’slist,isateachingassistantintheschoolof chemicalengineeringandisamentoringchairof WomeninChemicalEngineering.

Shehasservedasaninterninthechemicalengineeringsector.

Inpreviousseasons,Ninawasinthecourtsof Squires,LesPierrettesandApollo.

• Daughter of Mr.and Mrs. CharlesClaiborne LeBourgeoisJr.

•Graduated from IsidoreNewmanSchool

•Attends University of Virginia in Charlottesville

DebsByTheNumbers

Thenumberofdebsthatattend collegeinLouisiana.

DebsByTheNumbers

Thenumberofstateswiththreecollegesoruniversities inwhichthedebutantesattend:Louisiana(LSU,Loyola, Tulane),Massachusetts(BostonCollege,Boston University,Northeastern)andTexas(TexasA&M,Texas ChristianUniversityandUTatAustin).

Madeleine Paige MORRISON

Thestudyofinternationalrelationsintheglobal southrecentlybroughtMadeleinePaigeMorrison toSouthAfricatoresearchgender-basedviolence, whichfitswithhermajorofinternationalrelations withaconcentrationinethicsandsocialjustice andaminorinwomen’sandgenderstudies.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.deLesseps StoryMorrisonIII.HermotheristheformerPaige ElizabethStribling

AtNewman,MaddiewaspresidentofCrochet foraCause,makingblanketsandotheritemsfor theunhousedpopulation,avolunteeratHotel Hopewomen’sandchildren’sshelter,co-captain oftheSportsMedicineTeamandpaintedseveral muralsadvocatingsocialjusticeissuesincluding racialandgenderequality,reproductiverightsand diversity,equityandinclusion

AttheMassachusettscollege,sheisavolunteer atRoxburyYouthProgramassistinginafterschoolprograms.

Shehas also interned with thestate bar association’s“SuitUp”program,shadowinglegal professionals.

Duringpreviousseasons,Maddiewasinthe courtsofSquires,HarlequinsandOsiris.

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.deLesseps StoryMorrisonIII

•Graduated from IsidoreNewmanSchool

•Attends Boston College

AlexandraKay MURPHY

ThemedicalartsarecallingAlexandraKay Murphy,whohopestocontinuehernursingstudiesandeventuallyworkinthefieldofcriticalcareor emergencymedicine.

SheisthedaughterandstepdaughterofMr.and Mrs.CurtAndrewMurphyandstepdaughterand daughterofMr.andMrs.NicolasGuillermoBazanIII HermotheristheformerCherylAnnNix.

AtDeLaSalle,AlexwasamemberoftheNational HonorSocietyandreceivedtheL’UnionFrançaise Prixd'ExcellenceAward.Shewasalsothecaptainof boththecheerteamandthesoccerteam.

AlexfirstattendedMillsapsCollegeinJackson, MississippiandwasamemberofPhiMu.Shewas alsoonthesoccerteam.

ShetransferredtotheSt.CharlesAvenueuniversityandisenrolledintheschool’snursingprogram

Shehasworkedasaresearchassistantinthelocal medicalsectorforseveralsummersandcurrently worksforeyedoctors.

Alexhasvolunteeredasasoccercoachwiththe JeffersonParishSoccerAcademy.

•Daughterand stepdaughter of Mr.and Mrs. Curt Andrew Murphy and stepdaughter anddaughterofMr. andMrs.Nicolas GuillermoBazan III

•Graduated from De La SalleHighSchool

•Attends Loyola University

Sloane Alexandra PAYSSE

WhilesheattendscollegeinMassachusetts,SloaneAlexandraPayssehopesto exploremoreofoneofthecountry’smost historiccitiesandsampletheculinary creativityoftheEastCoastmeccawhileshe worksonherdegreeinaccounting.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.René SylvainPaysseJr.Hermotheristheformer JulieJeanineLee.

AtSacredHeart,SloanewasaNational MeritFinalist,amemberoftheNational HonorSocietyandreceivedtheSociedad EspañolaJoséLuisBañosAward.Shewas alsomanagerforthedanceteam

AttheschoollocatedontheCharlesRiver, sheisamemberofKappaAlphaThetaand isthevicepresidentoffinance.Sheisalsoan executiveboardmemberforFinTechClub andwasresponsibleforthesocialmember andmembereducation.

Asasub-deb,Sloanewasinthecourts ofCaliphsofCairo,ProphetsofPersia andDorians.

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.RenéSylvain Paysse Jr.

•Graduated from Academyofthe Sacred Heart

•Attends Boston University

Lucy Claire PERSCHALL

Afuturecareerintheworldofbusinessis thechartedcourseforLucyClairePerschall asshecontinuesherstudiesasaFightin’ TigerinBatonRougeattheE.J.OursoCollege ofBusiness.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Clement Francis“Trip”PerschallIII.Hermotheristhe formerLeslieAngelleJohns.

AttheUptownhighschool,Lucywasa memberoftheNationalHonorSocietyand theNationalArtsHonorSociety.Shewasalso inMuAlphaThetamathematicshonorsociety, andamemberofthetrackandfieldteam.

AtLSU,sheisonthepresident’shonorroll ShehasalsotutoredattheLSUCenterfor AcademicSuccess

Lucyhasalsoworkedasasummercamp counselorandintheprivatepetcaresector.

Asasub-deb,shewasinthecourtsof SquiresandOsiris

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.Clement

FrancisPerschall III

•Graduated from St.Mary’s DominicanHighSchool

•Attends LouisianaState University

Shayde Harmoni Cole

DebsByTheNumbers

Numberofstudentsthatattendorattended theLouiseS.McGeheeSchool.

Chilo Addison Morgan ROUSSELL

AddisonMorganRoussellhasworkedas aresearchinternonthehistoryofviolence inNewOrleans,piquinghercuriosityabout acareerinpoliticalscienceandpublicpolicy

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Adam AugustRoussell.Hermotheristheformer KeeshaMoniqueDavis

AttheUptownschool,Addyisamemberof theKeyClub,apeerfacilitatorfortheAnti-DefamationLeague,classvicepresidentandan alumnaoftheMayor’sYouthAdvisoryCouncil/JuniorCivicLeadershipAcademy

Shewillcompleteherseniorartseriesinthe comingtermandwillhaveherworkdisplayed attheschool’sgallery,earningheracertificate ofartistryinvisualart.

SheinternedatEnrichment2EmpowermentthroughTulaneUniversity,agrantfundedprogramthatexploredevidence-based strategiestopreventyouthviolence.

DuringapreviousCarnivalseason,shewas inthecourtoftheYoungMenIllinoisClub.

During Carnival 2026,Addywillbe presentedasadebutanteoftheseasonatthe balloftheclub.

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.AdamAugustRoussell

•Attends TheWillowSchool

Elizabeth McLundie Bolton SCHMIDT

•DaughterofMr. andMrs.Justin Burton Schmidt

•Graduated from Louise S. McGeheeSchool

•Attends University of Virginia at Charlottesville

Afterearningherkinesiologydegree,ElizabethMcLundieBoltonSchmidthasplans totakeagapyeartocontinueworkingat UVA’sFriedCenterfortheAdvancementof Potential,thenheadtograduateschoolin physicaltherapy,withtheultimategoalof becomingatherapist.

SheisthedaughterofMr.andMrs.Justin BurtonSchmidt.Hermotheristheformer MaryLeonoraHassinger

AttheGardenDistrictschool,Elliewas astudentambassador,peersupportleader andco-chairofRelayforLife.Shewasalso captainofthecrosscountry,soccerandtrack andfieldteams

AKappaKappaGammaatUVA,sheis theallmembershipexperiencedirectorand presidentofDucksUnlimited.SheispresidentoftheGordieClub,whichworkstoraise awarenesstoendhazingandtoteachothers todrinkresponsibly.

ShehasalsoparticipatedinGreekfor Good,astudent-runnonprofitthatunites organizationsoncampusthroughphilanthropyandvolunteerisminCharlottesville

InadditiontoherworkattheFriedCenter, ElliehasworkedasacounseloratCamp Merrie-WoodeinSapphire,NorthCarolina andinchildcareandretailareas.

Asasub-deb,Elliewasinthecourtsof Squires,LesPierrettes,ApolloandHarlequins.

DebsByTheNumbers

20 Numberofhighschoolsattended orareattending.

DebsByTheNumbers

DebsattendLSUandTexas ChristianUniversityeach, thelargestgroups.

Numberoforganizationstheyoungladies havebeenpresentedatorparticipatedin, includingthesub-debkrewesofChildren's CarnivalClub,Squires,LesPierrettes,Apollo andHarlequins.OtherCarnivalorganizations includeAthenians,CaliphsofCairo,Dorians, GrandBallofOsiris,Mystery'sBalloftheRoses, Olympians,OriginalIllinoisClub,Prophetsof PersiaandtheYoungMenIllinoisClub.Also,the HoustonGirls'Cotillion,LeMoynedeBienville ClubPresident'sBall,theCaliforniaPacificMedical Center'sDebutanteBallandSpringFiesta.

Debsattendcollegeoruniversity inNewOrleans—3atTulane and1atLoyolauniversities.

Collegesanduniversitieshave membersofthecoterieamongst theirstudentbody

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‘Alarming’ rise

Stroke

BY MARGARET DeLANEY Staff writer

Alexis Payne has a passion for planting trees. As a 21-year-old volunteer and student at the University of New Orleans, Payne regularly has full days both in the classroom and outdoors.

Seven months ago on a November day, after a six-hour session volunteering to plant trees with Sustaining Our Urban Landscape, a nonproﬁt dedicated to reforesting New Orleans’ landscape, Payne went inside for some air conditioning and water

“I knew something was wrong,” Payne said. “I couldn’t really feel my legs.”

Payne was by herself at the time and did not know she was experiencing common symptoms of a stroke.

Payne’s experience is part of rising rates in strokes among young people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that adults between 18 and 44 years old make up about 1 in 7 strokes cases nationwide.

Stroke hospitalizations among younger adults rose by nearly 50% from 2007 to 2017, with a notable 78% increase among women Dr Chintan Rupareliya, the vascular and neuroendocrine surgeon at Ochsner Baptist in New Orleans who treated Payne, said he sees young patients for strokes often

“It’s alarming to see that more young people are having strokes,” Rupareliya said “And not just small strokes. The

On the move

mobile mammogram unit in Baton Rouge to travel to 37 parishes, 2 Mississippi counties

BY MARGARET DeLANEY Staff writer

Woman’s Hospital, 100 Woman’s Way in Baton Rouge, launched a second mobile health unit to bring 3D mammograms to 37 parishes and two Mississippi counties. The unit is equipped with a state of the art mammogram device. The scans from the machine will be delivered electronically to Women’s Hospital’s main campus.

“Each year, our coaches make hundreds of trips providing thousands of mammograms to women who otherwise might not receive one,” Woman’s President and CEO Rene Ragas said.

Dr Claire Roberts, a radiologist at Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge for nine years, is part of the team that will be traveling across the state and Mississippi bringing 3D mammogram scans to communities.

The bright pink health bus is one of two in rotation with Woman’s Hospital. The pair of mobile units have a set schedule to visit libraries, community centers and more locations across the state Although appointments are encouraged, walk-in patients are welcome.

Along with the driver, a technician who runs the scans will travel on the bus. If a patient has any notable indications of concern, the team will refer the patient to either a Woman’s Hospital physician or a physician near them.

This mobile unit is meant to bring access to preventative care to communities across the state.

The Foundation for Woman’s is an extension of Woman’s Hospital that provides philanthropic support.

“Foundation for Woman’s is deeply grateful to our generous donors whose support made this

big, or large vessel, strokes are also increasing in number.” From 2011-13 to 2020-22, strokes increased 14.6% in adults between 18 and 44 years old and increased 15.7% in people aged 45 to 64 years old.

Stroke rates increased by 9.3% among women and by 6.2% among men.

rates are on the rise in young adults nationwide ä See STROKES, page 2X

See MOBILE, page 3X

Rupareliya

HEALTH MAKER

‘Beyond Extraordinary’ host has passion for wellness

Louisiana hospital launches monthly health care podcast

BY MARGARET DeLANEY Staff writer

In March, Louisiana Children’s Medical Center launched its very own health care podcast, “Beyond Extraordinary.”

The podcast’s goal is to educate Louisiana patients about health care and health opportunities in Louisiana.

Kristen Gradney is the monthly podcast’s host. Gradney is a graduate of LSU and Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University She has a passion for wellness advocacy and is the chief wellness ofﬁcer at LCMC.

In its ﬁrst three interviews, Gradney explored health care across the health system with LCMC Health CEO Greg Feirn, service lines with senior vice president of hospital services Rob Calhoun and comprehensive stroke care with vice president of neuroscience Alyana Samai. LCMC’s podcast is released the fourth Tuesday of every month. Listeners can tune in on YouTube, Apple Podcasts Spotify LCMC’s website and more.

What was your inspiration for starting the podcast project at LCMC?

I have been an advocate for

Continued from page 1X

In the United States, stroke is the

ﬁfth leading cause of death. Louisiana has the fourth-highest mortality rate due to strokes in the nation with 50.2 deaths per 100,000 people, according to 2022 CDC data

“Being in Louisiana, Georgia and Mississippi is in a struggle belt,” Rupareliya said. “Overall, we have the higher number of strokes. And that applies equally for the younger population.

Younger patients

A stroke occurs when blood ﬂow to the brain is blocked or disrupted by a broken blood vessel When this happens, oxygen-starved brain cells become weak and may die. The most common type, ischemic stroke, accounts for roughly 85% of all cases and is caused by a blood clot interrupting the brain’s blood supply The remaining 15% are hemorrhagic strokes, which occur when a blood vessel bursts, either within the brain or around it.

Researchers think the recent increase in young people may be due to corresponding increases in common risk factors for strokes including high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes.

However, there are additional factors that are unique to the young population and further potentiate stroke risk, including migraine oral contraceptive use, pregnancy and postpartum state, recreational drug use and patent foramen ovale (a hole in the heart that didn’t close the way it should after birth).

Although according to Payne, her life was relatively healthy before her stroke.

Payne regularly worked out and maintained a healthy diet. She does not smoke. She rarely drinks.

Stroke is the second leading cause of death globally and is recognized as the leading cause of long-term physical and cognitive disability in adults, according to a 2023 study in the National Library of Medicine

Young women are at a disproportionately increased risk of ischemic strokes compared with their male counterparts A recent metaanalysis of 19 studies that reported on sex-specific stroke incidence among young adults found that there were 44% more women under 35 years old with ischemic strokes than men.

Knowing when strokes happen

Doctors nationwide tell patients to look out for symptoms with the BEFAST acronym, especially when the signs start when alone, like Payne.

BEFAST stands for:

n Balance: feeling wobbly or having trouble sitting or walking.

n Eyes: having blurry vision or loss of vision in one or both eyes.

n Face: seeing asymmetry in the face or droopy on one side of the face.

n Arms: having trouble lifting the arm, the arm feels heavy or if one arm drips down compared to the

wellness in every aspect. Part of holistic well-being is being educated about the resources and what health care is about in your own community This was kind of a brainchild

other n Speech: trouble getting the words out, slurred speech, problems with articulation or understanding other people talking.

n Time: If any of the symptoms appear, it’s time to call 911 or go the emergency room.

“We always say over calling is never wrong when it comes to strokes,” Rupareliya said. “Every minute during a stroke, almost 1.9 million neurons, or brain cells, die. That is a very irreversible process. Brain cells do not regenerate.”

Although younger people typically have a higher ability to heal faster than older people, time is the most essential factor to determine length and effectiveness of recovery after a stroke

The chances for recurring strokes in younger people is high, but the likelihood goes signiﬁcantly down if doctors are able to identify and treat the original cause of the stroke, and patients actively work on preventative care.

Preventing attacks on the brain

Rupareliya said the most important question when someone comes to the ER is related to timing: When was the last time the person or someone from the family saw them being normal?

The timing will determine how a patient is treated.

If a patient is treated within three to four and a half hours of normal behavior, clot-busting medicines can work to remove the clot that caused the stroke Beyond four and a half hours, the risks of the medications outweigh the beneﬁts, Rupareliya said.

Research, however, is ongoing for medicinal treatments for stroke patients beyond the four and half hour window, according to Rupareliya.

Thrombectomies, a surgical stroke treatment, can be performed 24 hours after a stroke patient’s symptoms appear In the procedure a catheter is inserted through an artery in the groin or arm and navigated up to the site of the blockage

Payne, who received a thrombectomy, was up and walking out of the hospital a week later

The most common risk factors for strokes include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes and genetics. Rupareliya, and the CDC, recommend regular checkups to manage high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Among young people, substance and alcohol abuse and trauma are also common risk factors for strokes. Trauma can include accidents in vehicles, on rollercoaster rides and rotational injuries.

Many people can reduce their risk for strokes with lifestyle changes: eating healthy, reducing substances and keeping up with their regular, annual checkups to monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Payne moved home with her parents in Baton Rouge to manage her health and various surgeries, but she is still planting trees in the New Orleans area and is looking forward to planting more.

with some of our great communications team members. We said, “Hey, let’s do this, and let’s make it something that the community can engage in and understand and help move that cultural wellness

forward.” I have a master’s in health administration, so I’ve been on the administration side of health care for the past decade. I’ve also been a spokesperson for some large na-

tional health care organizations. I’m just passionate about getting resources and education into the hands of everyone.

This podcast was a natural evolution of that passion.

What health topics will you talk about on the podcast?

We interviewed our LCMC leaders ﬁrst because we wanted to set a foundation and humanize our system to let people know who are the voices of leadership. For future podcasts, we want to get into areas of innovation. We’re going to dive a little bit deeper, identify some of our subject matter experts who are doing some really innovative, groundbreaking things.

We want to let our audience know, “Hey, they’re right here in your community.” We also want them to get to know the person who’s leading this effort.

Some of the things we’re going to focus on are cardiac care, cancer innovation and stroke programs that are certiﬁed in every one of our facilities. We are going to explore what that means for patients and health care providers in the community looking for resources for their patients. We want to really hone in on what exactly it means to be innovative in our system.

Email Margaret DeLaney at margaret.delaney@theadvocate. com.

Use of at-home health tests becoming increasingly common

BY DEVNA BOSE AP health writer

The doctor is in — the mailbox, that is.

You can now do self-administered tests for everything from thyroid function to HIV in the privacy of your own home and that list continues to grow, as the Food and Drug Administration recently approved the ﬁrst at-home cervical cancer test.

While the tests can make it easier for people to access health care and can be helpful for those who have extreme anxiety about sensitive or invasive medical exams, experts warn that most of the tests cannot replace an actual in-person visit.

Here’s what doctors say you can test for at home, and when you should make the trek to your physician’s ofﬁce.

Two kinds of tests

There are two kinds at “at-home tests.”

In one type, the patient collects the sample and sends it off to a lab; the new cervical cancer test is like this.

The other gives an instant result think COVID-19 and pregnancy tests.

What are the benefits?

HIV home-testing kits can improve rates of diagnosing sexually transmitted infections in rural communities and help people who are nervous about going to the doctor to seek a sensitive test, said Dr Joseph Cherabie, an infectious diseases specialist in St Louis.

“You really want to get people to care as quickly as possible, but some people could be very anxious about that results as well,” Cherabie said. “And they have very negative reactions.”

Labs are required to report a positive HIV test, instead of putting the onus on the patient who took the test, Cherabie said, and, often, the patient is matched up with HIV support services.

“If you are part of a sexual and gender minority community going to a doctor’s ofﬁce can be full of a lot of historical trauma, and you may prefer to just do testing at home without anyone judging you or asking you invasive questions about your sex life,” Cherabie said.

The new cervical cancer test — which tests for strains of human papillomavirus, or HPV — involves a testing swab that’s like a tampon, said Dr Susan Modesitt, a gynecologic oncologist at Emory University in Atlanta.

It is not, Modesitt said, a replacement for a Pap smear, the exam in which a metal speculum is inserted in the vagina to scrape cervix cells. A doctor’s visit also involves a pelvic exam, a chance to talk about abnormal bleeding — a sign of endometrial cancer and other symptoms and issues, like menopause or STIs.

“There are so many other reasons to see your doctor and get an exam outside of a cervical cancer screening,” she said.

The at-home cervical cancer test from Teal Health requires a prescription, and the company said that results are not left for the patient to interpret.

Benefits in rural area

Some at-home tests can replace a trip to the doctor’s ofﬁce. That’s especially true in rural areas, where it can be difﬁcult to get a colonoscopy

“The colonoscopy requires a preop, and you have to drive maybe 70 miles for it,” said Dr Steven Furr, board chair of the American Academy of Family Physicians who practices in rural Alabama. “You get anesthesia It’s actually almost like a surgical procedure in many ways.

“So, for a lot of people, that’s pretty arduous. That’s where an at-home test can come in handy.”

But, Furr said, if your test reveals issues, you need to go to your doctor Plus, patients should always discuss test results with their physician instead of interpreting them on their own, he said Who shouldn’t do tests?

If you have symptoms of what you’re testing for, go to the doctor At-home colon cancer tests aren’t the right option for people with a history of colon cancer or high-risk conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease, said Dr Zachariah Foda, a gastroenterologist at Johns Hopkins. He added that they’re also not recommended for people who are having GI symptoms. While there are tests for many things — running anywhere from $15 to $400, depending on what is being evaluated — Furr said it’s essential to make sure that your test is FDA-approved so you can better trust the results.

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

Kristen Gradney, a chief wellness officer with LCMC in New Orleans, sits in front of an art installation by Ellen Macomber

EatFit Live Fit

TDrinkinsummer: Blueberry beveragesfor refreshing seasonal sipping

hemiddleofJune,whentheofficial startofsummerisjustdaysaway, ispeakseasonforblueberries inLouisiana.Whetheryougetthem bythecartonatafarmersmarketor straightfromthebushonapick-yourownoutingatalocalfarm,eatingthis seasonalsuperfoodatitsnutritional peakmeansyou’regettingoptimum phytonutrientcontent

Packedwithfiberandbrain-boosting flavonoids,blueberriesarealsorichin anthocyanins,antioxidantsthatreduce inflammationandprotecttheliver fromoxidativestress.Theirhighwater contentmakesblueberriesnaturally hydrating,andtheirflavor—tartyet sweetwithmildgentlefloralandherbal undertones—makesthemaversatileand craveabletreat.

Youcaneatahandfulasanafternoon snack,makeblueberrymuffinsoradd themtoGreekyogurtorﬁber-richcereal. Deliciousinasmoothie,blueberriesalso featureprominentlyinourdrinkrecipes from“TheEatFitCookbook”and“CRAFT: TheEatFitGuidetoZeroProofCocktails.”

Drinkingintheberrygoodness

Burstingwiththeﬂavorsofsummer, thesecolorful,refreshingblueberry beveragesaresweetenedwithzerocalorieplant-basedsweetenersinstead ofsugar.OurBlueberryBasilLemonade, citrusywithanherbalﬁnish,isperfectfor poolsidesipping.

EquallyrefreshingistheBlueberry Fall,azero-proofcocktailthatspices thingsupwithahappy-hourspin.Itwas originallycalledBlueberryBasilSpritz. Then,HopeFrugé—ourEatFitMonroe dietitianandphotographerforour books—tookatumblefromatopachair whiletryingtogettheperfectoverhead shot.AndthatishowTheBlueberryFall wasborn.

BlueberryBasilLemonade Makes6servings

FortheBasilSimpleSyrup ½packedcuptornfreshbasilleaves ¾cupGranularSwerve 2/3cupwater

FortheBlueberryLemonade 2cupsblueberries(freshorfrozen)

BY THENUMBERS

½cupbasilsimplesyrup ¾cuplemonjuice,freshlysqueezed 1tablespoonlemonzest

FortheBlueberryPuree 1cupblueberries ¼cupGranularSwerve

FortheGarnish Lemonslices Freshblueberries Basilsprigs

MaketheBasilSimpleSyrup:In asaucepanovermediumheat, combinebasil,Swerve,andwater. StiruntilSwervedissolves.Boilfor 5minutesthenremovefromheat, leavingthebasilleavestosteepfor 10minutes.Straintoremovethe basil,pressingontheleavestoget everylastbitofherbalgoodness. Refrigerateuntilreadytouse.

MaketheBlueberryLemonade: Combineblueberries,basilsimple syrup,lemonjuice,andlemonzestin ablender.Pureeuntilverysmooth.Strainwith aﬁnemeshsieveandsetaside.

PreparetheBlueberryPuree:Blend blueberriesandSwerveuntilpureed. Fillglasseswithiceandadd1tablespoonof blueberrypureetoeach.Topwithblueberry lemonade.Garnishwithlemonslices, blueberries,andasprigofbasil.

MollyKimball,RD,CSSD,isaregistereddietitian withOchsnerHealthandfounderofOchsner’sEatFit nonproﬁtinitiative.Formorewellnesscontent,tuneinto Molly’spodcast,FUELEDWellness+Nutrition,andfollow @MollykimballRDand@EatFitOchsneronsocialmedia. Emailnutrition@ochsner.orgtoconnectwithMollyor scheduleaconsultwithherteam

OVER 5LOUISIANANS PER100K EXPERIENCEHEATSTRESSILLNESS

Between April and October 2023, 88 people in Louisiana died from heat-related illnesses, according to the Louisiana Department of Health.August hadthe most deaths in the state with at 39 people.

Symptoms of heat stress or heatrelated illness include:

n Heat rash including red, itchybumps on the skin

n Heat cramps including painfulmuscle spasms and involuntarymovements

n Heat exhaustion including heavy sweating,clammy skin, dizziness, headaches,and nauseaorvomiting

n Heat strokes including very high body temperature, damp skin,confusion, slurred speech or seizures.

Regional parishes with the highest rates of hospitalizations for heat-stress

illnesses per 100,000 people between 2010 and 2019 included:

n Thenorthwest region with 7.5 hospitalizations within Caddo,Bossier, Webster,DeSoto and Red River parishes.

n Thewestcentral region with 7.2 hospitalizations within Sabine, Natchitoches and Vernon parishes.

Parishes with the lowest ratesof hospitalizations included:

n Thesoutheast region with 3.29 hospitalizations within Terrebone, LaFourche, Jefferson, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, Orleans, St. Charles, St. John theBaptist and St. James parishes

n Thesouth central region with 3.62 hospitalizations within Lafayette, St. Martin,Iberville,Assumption, St. Mary andIberiaparishes

new mobile mammography coach possible,” said Ali Landry,president and chief philanthropy ofﬁcer

“Together,this $1 million investment will help eliminate barriers and ensure every woman receives thecare she deserves.”

The unit will stop Friday, June 20, at Assumption Parish Community Hospital, 135 La. 402, Napoleonville. Call (985) 369-4265 to schedule. The ongoingscheduleis releasedmonthly.Organizations can request avisit online at Woman’sHospital or by calling (225) 231-5658. Email Margaret DeLaney at margaret.delaney@ theadvocate.com.

Perserving:50calories,0fat,0sodium,30 gramscarbohydrate(11gramsnetcarbs),3 gramsﬁber,9gramssugar(0addedsugar),<1 gramprotein

TheBlueberryFall

Makes1serving

FortheBlueberryFall

21/2ouncesBlueberrySimpleSyrup (recipebelow) Ice

4ouncessparklingwater Freshbasil,forgarnish Habaneroring,forgarnish

FortheBlueberrySimpleSyrup 1cupwater

1/2cupSwervegranularor11/2cupsgranular allulose 2cupsblueberries

2habanerochilepeppers,seeded(optional) (Makesapproximately21/2cups)

PreparetheBlueberrySimpleSyrup:In amediumsaucepan,bringwatertoaboil. Reducetomedium-highheatandadd sweetener.Stirtodissolveandcontinue toheatfor10minutes.Inafoodprocessor, blendblueberriesandseededhabanero chilepeppersuntilsmooth.Foldblueberryhabaneromixtureintosimplesyrup.Allow tosteepfor10minutes.Pourintoaheat-safe containerandrefrigerateunusedportionfor uptooneweek

MaketheBlueberryFall:Pour21/2ounces BlueberrySimpleSyrupintorocksglass. Addiceandtopwithsparklingwater Gentlystirandgarnishwithfreshbasiland habaneroring

Perserving:25calories,0fat,15mgsodium, 5gramsnetcarbs,1gramﬁber,4gramssugar (0addedsugar),0protein

The Louisiana Health section is focused on providing in-depth, personal accounts of health in the state.This section looks at medical innovations, health discoveries, state and national health statistics and re-examining tried and true methods on ways to livewell. Health editions will also profile people whoare advancing health forthe state of Louisiana. Do youhavea health story? We want to hear fromyou. Email margaret.delaney@ theadvocate.com to submit health questions, stories and more.

BROUGH TT OY OU BY

Molly Kimball RD,CSSD

Men’s health

Weknowthatmanyconditionsanddiseasesrespondbetterto treatmentwhenthey’rediagnosedearly.ThisFather’sDay, it’sagoodtimetoremindthemeninourlivesofthe importanceoftakingstepstostayhealthy.

3 reasons men need a primary caredoctor Top

Aprimarycarephysicianservesasahealthcarepartner,providingaconsistent,coordinatedpointofcontactformedicalneeds. Theyhelpmentaketheguessworkoutofstayinghealthy.Here’show:

Ideally,menshouldvisitaprimarycaredoctoronceayear forannualwellnessexams.Routinewellnessvisitshelpcatch potentialhealthproblemsbeforetheybecomeserious.Regular screeningsforbloodpressure,cholesterolanddiabetescan leadtoearlydiagnosesandmoreeffectivetreatments.

? 1 2

Aprimarycarephysiciantracksthepatient’s overallhealthovertime.Theylookatthe fullpicture,includingpersonalandfamily medicalhistory,lifestylefactors,andongoing conditionstooffercomprehensivecare.

Ongoinghealth management

Fromhealthylifestyletipstomanaging medicationsorchronicconditions,a primarycaredoctorprovidestailored advicetohelppatientsstayincontrolof theirhealthateverystageoflife

Toﬁndtherightprimarycaredoctor,menshouldlookforaproviderwholistens,communicatesclearlyandunderstandstheiruniqueneeds. Visitochsner.org/primarycaretoﬁndaprimarycaredoctornearyou.

What is Aquablation and howdoes it treatbenign prostatichyperplasia?

Benignprostatichyperplasia(BPH)isamedicaltermforanenlarged prostate.Mostmenwillexperiencethisnoncancerousconditionas theygrowolder.Untreated,itcaninterferewithurination.

DoctorsnowhaveanewapproachtoBPHtreatmentthatcan beusedinlieuofotherprocedures,suchaslasertherapyor traditionalsurgery.Aquablationtherapyisaminimallyinvasive

Morethan6millionmenintheUnitedStates experiencedepressioneachyear.Somemen maytrytohidetheirdepressionasmanysee depressedmoodsordepressionasaweakness. Thegoodnewsisthathelpisavailable. Lovedonescansupportthemenintheirlives bybeingonthelookoutforsignsofdepression Someofthosesignsinclude: Fightingwithhisspouse

Losinginterestinsexorotherformerly enjoyableactivities

Becomingwithdrawnoruncharacteristically uncommunicative

surgicalprocedurethatusesroboticsandahigh-pressurewater jettodestroyandremoveexcessprostatetissue.Sideeffectsare minimal.

In2023,OchsnerHealthbecametheﬁrsthealthcareorganization inLouisianatoofferAquablationtherapyforthetreatment oflowerurinarytractsymptomsduetoBPH

Establishingasupportsystemoffamilyandfriendstorelyonisoneofthe mostimportantstepsmencantaketohandledepressionanditssymptoms.Herearesomeothersteps:

Seekhelp:Ifyouknowsomethingisn’tright,gettingappropriatetreatmentfordepressionearly onisessentialinpreventingtheconditionfromgettingworse.Startwithaphysicalexamby yourhealthcareprovider.It’simportanttoseekoutaphysician,becausesometimesthesigns ofdepressioncanmirrorsymptomscausedbyothermedicalconditionsormedications.Ifthose possibilitiesareruledout,askyourprovidertoreferyoutoatherapistorpsychiatrist.

Exerciseregularly:Studieshaveshownthatexerciseandlifestylechangescancombatdepression andstressalmostaswellassomemedications.

Evaluateyourlife:Areyouhappyinyourjobandrelationships?Ifnot,whatcanyoudoto improvethem?

Doyourownresearch:Seekinginformationfromreputablesourcescanhelpyoulearnmore aboutdepressionandwhatyoucandoaboutit.Youcandotheresearchinprivate,fromthe comfortofafamiliarsetting.

Considertherapy:Talktherapyandcounselingcanprovidetoolstohelpnavigatelife’schallenges. Havingaconfidentialspacetoexpressyourfeelingsandatrainedprofessionaltoguideyoucan significantlyimproveyourmentalhealth.Visitochsner.org/psychiatrytofindadoctororprovider inyourarea

POLITICS WITHOUT POLARIZATION

Braver Angels strivesfor civildebateinBaton Rouge

BY PATRICK SLOAN-TURNER Staff writer

At atime when political polarization feels like thedeﬁning feature of American life, agroup of BatonRouge residents are trying something radical. They bringtogether locals from across the politicalspectrum, sitthemdown in the same room to discuss hot-button issueslike taxes or birthright citizenship —and askthemnot to shout, point ﬁngers or storm out

“Wecan sometimes view people on the other side as basically the enemy,” said David Lindenfeld, the Blue co-chair of Braver Angelsof Baton Rouge. “That back and forth doesn’treally solvethe problems and theconstant oscillation doesn’treally get us very far.”

Rather than accept the new normalofpolitical discourse echoing the vitriol of an internet comment section, Lindenfeld and ahandful of others instead took the ideas of anational nonpartisan group and brought them to Baton Rouge to try and start their own chapter of Braver Angels.

The nationalorganization began nearly 10 yearsago following the 2016presidential election.

Drawing its name from President Abraham Lincoln’s call for unity in his ﬁrstinaugural address, Braver Angels quickly picked upsteam

throughout the country and now has more than 100 “alliances,” according to the group’swebsite. They hostworkshops, debatesand trainings, all aimed toward facilitating civil discourse and understanding betweenprogressives and conservatives— known as “Reds”and “Blues”within theorganization. The group’s mission, practices and approach areall aimed at ﬁghtingwhat they calla “crisis ofpolarization” that hasovertakenthe country.Braver Angels’ national

board of directors is an even split between the political left andpolitical right, not necessarily to get each side to agree, but to change how they think about one another “It’sthe idea that you can look upon someone whodisagrees with youassomeone you could talk to, learn from, contribute to,and have faceto-face contact with,”Lindenfeld said. “Rather than think ‘This aterriblepolicy anda terrible person,’ you can start opening up to agenuine discussionand breakdownthe defensiveness.”

Nationally,the concept has caught on,asBraverAngels nowhas more than 58,000 members. And though Louisiana does notyet have its own ofﬁcial alliance, Lindenfeld andotherssoon hope to change that. It wasn’tuntil spring of 2024 when Lindenfeld and other organizers thought it was worth ashot to try and bring the movement to Louisiana’scapital. That’swhen Jon Parks,executive director of the Interfaith Federation

ä See DEBATE, page 2Y

Nominate Louisianansfor ENCORE Awards

munities. The2025ENCORE Awards willhighlight those whohave taken on bold new challenges lifted up others and madea measurableimpact in their communities or beyond, challenging outdated ideas of agingbyshining alight on people whose second (or third!) acts

aremeaningful, powerful and creative. Nominations for the 2025 ENCORE Awards can be made at https://www.nola.com/site/forms/ encore_awards/encore_awards_ imported-20250605122916/. Submissions will closeJuly 14. Award recipients will be announced in latesummer For more information, email Jan Risher at jan.risher@ theadvocate.com.

Lessons from afather’s sideline

My dad coached high school football fornearly all of my growing up years and manyyears beyond that. In his early coaching years, he had three players kick extra points after touchdowns but after that, his teamsalways went fortwo. For one thing, he didn’tnurture or develop kickers. But mainly, he wanted to do everything in his power to avoid atie.

His aversion to games ending in adraw was legendary.Heequated atie to “kissing your sister.” He would rather winorlose. His loathing of atie extended far beyond the field. My father was an all-in kind of guy about mosteverything he did —there was nothing half-hearted or lukewarm in his demeanor And he brought the rest of us along forthe ride. Saying he “brought us along for the ride” understates things. We didn’thave achoice in the matter We weregoing on the hayride. We were singing the songs. We were picking the gallons of blueberries. We werecanoeing down the river.Wewere taking the first boat to Ship Island and the last boat back. We were going camping in the biggest tent he could find —and my friends and Iwould learn to put it up, take it down, fold it nicely and get it back in the bag. We were getting up at the crack of dawntodrive to Starkville forthe early game.

The list could go on to ﬁll chapters in abook.

My father knew how to make things happen. He was always up foranadventure, which meant lifewas rich in experience. Yes, sometimes, he wasabulldozer for fun, pushing people to join in regardless of the situation or their wishes.

He led by example and taught me alot about bringing people along forthe ride. On occasion, Irecognize my own tendencies toward bulldozing and try to ease off the gas. Even so, Irecognize the energy he put into making so much happen. Iamgrateful for his efforts.

But truth be told, sometimes his notions led the rest of us to exhaustion.

His approach to lifeleft little room fornuance. In his world —and the world Igrew up in there were good guys and bad guys, villains and heroes, people whowere in or out, right or wrong.

Ididn’tﬁgure out that there was room forgray and that people didn’thave to be in or out until I moved faraway.The realization wascompletely liberating forme.

ä See RISHER, page 2Y

PHOTOSByAPRIL BUFFINGTON

David Lindenfeld opens up themeeting explaining the purpose of BraverAngels before the debate held April 27 at the Bluebonnet Regional LibraryinBaton Rouge.

Ingram, chair of the debate,

rules of the debate

PROVIDED PHOTO Coach GaryRisher advises

Q&A WITH CHUCK LAGRANGE

Acadiana’s Stuller Foundation supports the community

BY LAUREN CHERAMIE Staff writer

Chuck LaGrange is the executive director of the Stuller Family Foundation, a Christian-based private family foundation in Lafayette that has given over $70 million over the past 30 years to nonproﬁts in Acadia Lafayette, Iberia, St. Landry, St. Martin and Vermilion parishes.

Matthew Stuller, founder of Stuller Inc., North America’s largest ﬁne jewelry manufacturer and distributor, established The Stuller Family Foundation in 1994 in Lafayette. LaGrange leads efforts to support philanthropic initiatives that reﬂect the foundation’s values of faith, community and service. In addition to his work with the foundation, LaGrange serves as the chief strategist for Parish Proud, a grassroots movement dedicated to fostering civic engagement, community pride and placemaking throughout Lafayette Parish. He is originally from Leonville.

What are some of the nonprofit organizations that Stuller has funded, and how are they helping the community?

One of the ﬁrst organizations we helped form was Hearts of Hope, originally known as Stuller Place. It addresses trauma-related issues, especially among youth.

Acadiana Animal Aid focuses on animal welfare in the community If you take a look at what

DEBATE

Continued from page 1y

of Greater Baton Rouge, was called on to help advertise an organize.

Parks began spreading the word, and what started with just a few people has grown into a group of around 30 who now gather each month at the Bluebonnet Library to work through tough conversations in the name of the greater good “Braver Angels is about looking and talking with people that believe differently from me,” Parks said “It’s really boiling it down to the essence and saying ‘You know we all care about having healthy communities.’”

The debates are anything but informal, with strict rules read at the beginning of the meeting to keep the peace.

A speciﬁc topic relevant to current events is chosen for each meeting. Then, two debaters of opposing viewpoints — usually with some type of professional background on the subject — make their case as a moderator presides over the back and forth. They’re allowed a brief presentation explaining their standpoint and are told to refrain from referring to one another by name.

Much of the firm guidelines steal their approach from family and couples’ therapy techniques, Lindenfeld said, and “give the safe space for political discourse.” About halfway through the meeting, discussion is then opened up to those in attendance, who can ask questions about a certain viewpoint or share their own thoughts on whatever the subject might be. Parks said Braver Angels’ approach has expanded his perspective on what may be the country’s most polarizing issue — immigration.

Gary Risher, center wearing the hat and tie on, accepts the trophy for the win over Morton that got the Forest Bearcats to the playoffs.

PROVIDED PHOTO

we’ve given to over time, it’s ecclesiastical causes and education. We’ve help build a lot of schools and churches in Acadiana We also work with groups like Faith House of Acadiana and Miles Perret Cancer Services. We look at our funding not just as grants but as investments in the people and causes that we feel can have the greatest social impact — and create meaningful change — in our community. Being from St. Landry Parish, are you able to understand firsthand how these nonprofits are uplifting the community today? My dad was a sharecrop-

per, and we grew up in a relatively lower middle class household. Growing up, I got to see how families at that time worked and still struggled to make a living and provide their kids with the opportunity to be better off than them.

To be able to grow up in a very rural, spiritual place not having a tremendous amount of money, going to public schools and understanding the value of going to work while still in school shapes you as an individual. It helps me to relate even more with many of the nonproﬁts that now provide essential work in many of

her

the Bluebonnet Regional Library

Though his own viewpoint tends to lean progressive on the issue, he said he’s now gained more genuine respect from where the other side is coming from.

“It’s helped me to be more empathetic,” Parks said. “I hate to say it, but most of my family has the same politics that I do.”

He now finds himself standing up for the other side, sometimes saying, “You know I hear you saying that they’re stupid, but they’re not. They really have well-informed opinions.”

At a meeting in April, the subject was tax fairness, with debaters explaining their opposing positions on who should pay taxes, how much those taxes should be for respective individuals and what those taxes should pay for

For their June meeting, the group tackled the increasingly relevant issue of birthright citizenship, debating whether the U.S. policy should be reformed in line with proposals championed by President Donald Trump’s administration

Though the local group has grown since its inception last year, it has yet to check all the boxes to be a recognized “alliance” of Braver Angels.

The national group likes to have both sides repre-

sented fairly So, the local group is working to get more conservative voices involved as current attendance leans a bit left.

“We still have to work on the balance between liberal and conservative, but we’re working on it,” Lindenfeld said.

Now that they’ve built a foundation for their regular meetings, the group is starting to spend time and energy on ﬁnding conservatives who might want to be involved. But there’s still no pressure for attendees to be debaters themselves or even voice their own opinions during discussion, Parks said.

Currently handling some of the group’s outreach effort, Parks encourages anyone interested — from either side — to go to the group’s calendar online at braverangels.org and ﬁnd a local workshop to attend. It’s an open invitation, he said, as Braver Angels is about dialogue, not division.

“We value this country We value our communities and we want the same kinds of things,” Parks said. “Let’s talk about ways that we can work together to accomplish those.”

Email Patrick SloanTurner at patrick.sloanturner@theadvocate.com.

RISHER

Continued from page 1y

Life was easier smoother kinder, gentler — better, frankly

My father never made peace with my changing perspective. Until the very end, he approached almost

services and human services, we’re tinkering in the fringes of a variety of different areas. But we’re also trying to build resilience for these organizations so that the social impacts aren’t getting any smaller It ensures that our foundation continues to be responsive, relevant and focused and aligned with what the community priorities are. And as those priorities change, we’re in alignment.

Is the foundation pivoting its approach to funding with the current governmental cuts to nonprofits?

We received more requests from nonproﬁts that rely 80-90% on government funding. There are cuts occurring at the federal government level that are impacting other funding sources for nonproﬁts.

these underserved communities. I grew up in an underserved community.

Why is it important for the Stuller Foundation to focus on a wide range of nonprofit areas, as opposed to dialing in on one?

Having been at this for a while now, you come to discover that, while there are a lot of nonproﬁts that work in different spaces, when they work collectively, they have the ability to really drive impact. Focusing on that wide range of nonproﬁts allows us to make a broader, more meaningful impact. When we support education, health care, the arts, social

We’re seeing a lot of nonproﬁts having to go back to the drawing board to establish new strategic plans that they never thought they’d have to do — and that’s fundraising, which is not cheap. As a foundation, it’s important for us to know who these folks are, what places they’re making impact and where they get funding. When the cuts were happening, we knew we were going to get more grants than we ever did before in certain spaces that typically never come this way

We got them, but we also used it as an opportunity to go back to these groups and help them craft a path forward, because what we’re

experiencing now could very well be the future. We worked to connect nonprofits with other funders in the community We partnered very intentionally with the Community Foundation of Acadiana to have access to funders. This enables nonprofits to potentially raise more money but also raise the visibility of the organization. We discovered that we need to create ecosystems for funders. We’re trying to identify all the groups that work within a certain subject matter to work together By virtue of working together, they can increase their overall capacity How will the cuts impact the future of nonprofit funding? Historically, there has not been a lot of collaboration among funders for projects. Now, with the help of the Community Foundation, we convene a quarterly meeting to share different opportunities. There is no better time to make significant impact than now, because the need is so great and is growing. When’s the last time you heard the words disruptive technology and innovation on the nonprofit side? You don’t hear that, but we have that opportunity now There are so many nonprofits that duplicate the same thing, but no reason why they can’t all get together

Email Lauren Cheramie at lauren.cheramie @theadvocate.com.

2025 Postcard Project launches

BY JAN RISHER Staff writer

The fourth annual Postcard Project launched on Memorial Day and runs through Labor Day The project got off to a great start with postcards from eight states and three countries in the ﬁrst week plus 10 postcards from Louisiana, including a gorgeous hand-painted watercolor postcard from Denny Wheeler in River Ridge. Remarkably, one of the states represented in the first week of postcards is North Dakota. Annie sent a postcard from Fargo, North Dakota. She’s happy winter is done and wrote that she too struggles to believe that 2025 is almost halfway through, “even though it feels like it just started.” She signed off saying she’s preparing to welcome baby No. 2 any day now! Congrats, Annie, to you and your little one. Thanks for the postcard from one of the most difﬁcult-to-get states.

Nanette Cosban sent a postcard from Lyon, France, saying that she and her son “ate the most amazing food, courtesy of not only the restaurants but also thanks to the recommendations Ian McNulty was so kind as to share.”

Justin Pamplin wrote a postcard from Cozumel, Mexico, where he went on a Norwegian Getaway cruise He wrote, “I stayed in one of the studio cabins which are designed and priced for solo travelers.” Pamplin is a big fan of the “Where’s George” website, which tracks the natural circulation of American paper money He went on the cruise with friends he made through “Where’s George.”

The first states represented in the 2025 Postcard Project are: Louisiana, Mississippi, Michigan, Arizona, Oregon, Virginia, North Da-

every situation like it was fourth and goal. He thought I had gone soft. He couldn’t believe how much I had changed.

Parenting is like that. I remember the ﬁrst time I realized one of my daughters knew something that I didn’t, leaving me with a “How can this be?” moment and plenty to ponder

kota and Massachusetts. Countries represented thus far are the U.S., France and Mexico. Throughout the summer, the newspaper staff tracks the postcards received and shares highlights in our goal of receiving postcards from all 50 states and as many countries as possible. Anyone is welcome to participate by sending in a postcard to: Jan Risher, The Advocate, 10705 Rieger Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70809

Email Jan Risher at jan. risher@theadvocate. com.

My dad has been gone for more than two years now In his absence, I continue to learn that life doesn’t have to be win or lose — and that there is value in ﬁnding the middle ground, even in a tie.

I do my best now to recognize the strength in listening, in pausing, in not always having to push forward. But sometimes, espe-

cially when the stakes feel high, I ﬁnd myself reaching for his playbook. When we hit the nittygritty in moments big or small, I still hear his booming voice from the sidelines, yelling for me to go for two.

Email Jan Risher at jan. risher@theadvocate.com.

STAFF PHOTOS By By JAN RISHER

Denny Wheeler, of River Ridge, hand painted this watercolor postcard and mailed it to the 2025 Postcard Project.

Denny Wheeler of River Ridge, hand painted this watercolor postcard and mailed it to the project.

A postcard from Arizona was received in the first week of the project.

PHOTO By APRIL BUFFINGTON

Alison Ocmand gives

side of the debate on April 27 at

STAFF FILE PHOTO By LESLIE WESTBROOK

Stuller Founder and CEO Matt Stuller greets Claude Michael Smith, 8, on April 2, 2024, at Stuller in Lafayette. Smith was granted a wish to go to Super Nintendo World in Los Angeles by the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Stuller Family Foundation.

N.O. Convention Center goes green

Eventspace touts sustainable programs

BY MARCOCARTOLANO

Staff writer

Humming with the familiar sounds of machinery and cluttered with stacks of waste waiting to be discarded,the rear ofNew Orleans’ Ernest N. Morial Convention Center looks like an industrial loading dock ﬁtting for afacility that dates back to the1980s But the building’scolor-coded recycling system tells adifferent story —one of amore modern system of waste disposal and massive recycling operation thathave earned the Convention Centera sustainability certification that fewfacilities of asimilarsizehave.

“It very much is newmeets traditional,” said Linda Baynham, the Convention Center’s directorof sustainability and corporatesocial responsibility

On arecent tour through the Convention Center in honor of Earth Day,Baynham said the facility recycled over248 tons in 2024, just the latest in aseries of feats geared toward transforming the building into aleader in sustainability

Walking alongside Baynman, Chief OperatingOfficer Adam Straight touted the facility’sLeadership in Energy and Environmental Design, or LEED, certiﬁcation, arating issued by the U.S. Green Building Council and used worldwide.

“Weare the largest facilityinthe world to achieve gold LEED certiﬁcation with the new standards,” Straight said. “The new standards are real-time data, so you have to not just tell your storyofwhat you’re going to do but you have to release the data that says, ‘OK, you guys are really doing that.’”

The Convention Center received the certification in 2022 and is working to renew it this year

While other facilities will likely meet the new standards, Straight said Convention Center officials will hold onto that honor as long as they can. Getting there involved a lot of changes that are part of the center’songoing capital improve-

ment plan, he said.

Goinggreen

The signs of sustainability are everywhere in the Convention Center

While walkingthrough the mammoth hall, Baynhampointed to the lights, saying over 4,000 werereplacedwith more energy-efﬁcient LED light ﬁxtures.Inside the unusually empty exhibition hall, disposal bins are labeled with which items can be recycled or composted. TheConvention Center’s loading dock includesrecycling instruc-

tions in both English andSpanish. The pillars are colored-coded to represent the main materials that combined in 2024 to create the center’ssigniﬁcant recycling record: yellow for landﬁll, blue for the plasticsheeting usedtoprotect carpets, green for cardboard, red for scrap metal andbrown for wood. Traditional materials like bottles and cans are also recycled. Along withrecycling and conserving energy, the Convention Center’slinear park, agreen space near theentranceofthe building, boasts 200 trees, which lower the facility’scarbon footprint through

oxygen production anda stormwater management systemthat channels rainwater to irrigate the plantsand trees,according to statistics provided by the Convention Center Baynham said the center also reduced its water use by installing low-flowplumbing fixturesinthe restrooms in addition to upgrades to energy equipment and cooling towers. The center’swater use has been reduced by 16% since 2019, enough water to fill 670 backyard swimmingpools, Straight added. Beginning in 2020, theConvention Center installed 87 water

bottle-ﬁlling stations to reduce the use of plastic water bottles. There were over 500,000 bottle reﬁlls in 2024, Baynham said. The Convention Center still has plenty of projects going forward, and the team plans to stay green.

“A lot’sgetting donehere in the next five to 10 years,”Straight said. “Any future construction not only inside the building, but future construction outside the building, will take on that samemodel.”

Email Marco Cartolano at marco.cartolano@theadvocate. com

STAFF FPHOTO

GERMER

FAITH & VALUES

Berliners rediscovering their faith outdoors

ELISSA MARDINEY

Contributing writer

A dozen walkers, many of them retirees in wool hats and fleece jackets, gathered in a silent circle in the Grunewald forest, just outside Berlin.

“Walk silently through nature and notice what you observe,” read Stephen Lemke, an adviser for senior citizens for the evangelical church in the Charlottenburg-Wilmersdorf borough of Berlin, on a Wednesday in March. He leads these “silent pilgrimages” once a month for anyone interested in exploring the connection between religion, nature and self.

The group bowed their heads.

“I hear the sound of the wind I feel the sun on my skin. I enjoy the moment,” Lemke read. “But at the same time, I realize that this moment cannot be captured.”

After the meditation, they began an hourlong silent walk through the park.

Around Berlin, Christian pilgrimage walks led by various organizations are open to locals and visitors nearly every week. They aim to offer a way for people of all ages to engage with their faith and community without stepping foot in a church. Some are guided by pastors with an interest in the outdoors, while others are self-guided with stops at churches or other sacred sites, like the Spandau pilgrimage. Some last an hour while others are multiweek expeditions.

Pilgrimages, which have gained popularity in the last

Participants

19 in Berlin.

couple decades across Europe, especially in southern Germany, provide a way for people in an aging and increasingly secular society to reconnect with their Christian faith.

“A lot of people won’t go to church anymore, but they still are religious,” said Nicolas Budde, pilgrim pastor of the Kladow borough parish in Berlin “I think the church has to think about ways to talk with people about religion, and I think that pilgrimage is one way to do it.” In the 1500s, devout Catholics took long, arduous walks to visit sacred relics. Making the journey to a sacred destination such as Santiago de Compostela in Spain was an expression of Christian devotion, intended to prove one’s worthiness before God

and cleanse the soul of sin.

But in 1520, Martin Luther, the German theologian and leader of the Protestant Reformation, criticized the practice. He argued pilgrimages had no basis in Scripture and were part of the greed and commercialism in the church that he detested. Luther believed God could be found anywhere, and there was no need to visit a sacred site. Pilgrimages fell out of favor

“In the Middle Ages, (pilgrimages were) more of an outside thing — you really wanted to know something from God, you wanted to praise him or you wanted to get forgiveness,” said Bettina Kammer the public relations ofﬁcer for the Protestant church in Berlin’s Spandau borough. “Nowadays, it’s more personal —

people have this feeling that they’re looking for something, but they can’t quite put a ﬁnger on it.”

Pilgrimages have also gained popularity through movies such as “I’m Off Then,” a 2015 German ﬁlm, and the 2010 ﬁlm “The Way,” starring Martin Sheen. Both are about the world’s most famous pilgrimage, the Way of St. James, or Camino de Santiago.

In 2020, the Berlin suburb of Spandau launched its own 46.6-mile loop inspired by the Camino de Santiago, connecting two dozen Protestant churches and two Catholic ones. Berliners and tourists can walk, bike or canoe along color-coded routes linking the churches. Pilgrims can collect stamps at each church they visit. Budde, who pastors along

the Spandau pilgrimage route, said that while a hike is the external act of walking a trail, a pilgrimage is an internal journey: “One walks with feet, but one makes a pilgrimage with one’s heart.”

Thomas N.H. Knoll, another pilgrimage leader in Berlin, founded and runs the information ofﬁce at the St Jacobi Pilgrimage Center Visitors can stop by for pilgrimage passports, stamps and a travel blessing before setting out on a pilgrimage in Germany or abroad.

These types of journeys can help people find the courage to move forward physically and emotionally, especially when one is facing a tough life situation like a loved one’s death, an illness, a conﬂict or a job loss, he said. Knoll also touts being “transformed by experiencing nonavailability” — or spending time without one’s phone.

Pilgrimages can also offer a chance for new friendships, especially among seniors, who often experience isolation.

“It’s helpful for the elderly to not only keep moving physically, but also to connect with others in a meaningful, spiritual way,” Lemke said. From a religious perspective, these walks can serve as “new temporary forms of congregations.”

“A foundation was missing in my life,” he said. When starting the group, he “rediscovered both hiking and religion.” The hikes start with a prayer and encourage spiritual reﬂections throughout.

After the silent pilgrimage in Berlin’s Grunewald, Lemke’s group paused for reflection. One participant noted the subtle changes in the scenery that came with each passing day Others agreed, speaking of the signs of spring — new buds on the leafless trees, bird song, a slightly warmer breeze.

Someone else looked forward to a cup of coffee. By the end, the participants, some approaching 90 years old, had all met someone new or found a quiet moment of connection with God.

Lemke closed with a prayer

“Stand in the sun and feel its warmth. May the Lord be with you, like the ground that carries you,” he said. “May the Lord be with you, like the air you breathe like the bread that strengthens you like the sun that makes your day warm and bright.” For some, these short prayers are a return to religion.

“Sometimes people come to me and say ‘Wow that was my first prayer in 10 years,’ ” Lemke told RNS. “So maybe it’s a small way back.”

Young people who want to stay connected to their religion but don’t feel at home in a traditional church can also beneﬁt. Two years ago Alexander Steinfeldt founded Berlin Pilgrims, a group for young people interested in hiking and reﬂecting on philosophical and spiritual topics A lifelong member of Germany’s Protestant church, Steinfeldt started the group when he was feeling disconnected from both community and faith.

Maine trains army of HVAC pros to meet heat pump goals

BY KRISTIAN MORAVIC

Contributing writer

Editor’s note: This story, created by Kristian Moravec for the Rural News Network, is part of the is part of the Solutions Story Tracker from the Solutions Journalism Network, a nonproﬁt organization dedicated to rigorous reporting about responses to social problems. Louisiana Inspired features solutions journalism stories that provide tangible evidence that positive change is happening in other places and in our own communities — solutions that can be adopted around the world.

The sputtered drone of a vacuum pump ﬁlled the former milking barn that now houses Kennebec Valley Community College’s heat pump lab in Fairﬁeld, Maine Instructor Dave Whittemore, who held the yellow vacuum in one hand and displayed an app tracking atmospheric pressure on his phone in the other explained in a raised voice how to do an “evacuation,” ridding the heat pump of air and moisture to avoid malfunctions down the road.

“The longevity of the equipment is important,” said Whittemore, who teaches students how to install the increasingly popular electric heating and cooling units. “If it’s not done right, then it’s going to fail prematurely And that’s the biggest reason that I personally try to keep up with industry best standards and I pass that on to my students.”

Six years ago, Gov. Janet Mills traveled to the college to sign a bill aimed at transforming Maine’s market for heat pumps, an environmentally friendly alternative to oil furnaces and gas boilers, and set a goal of installing 100,000 units by 2025.

The state, now a national leader for heat pump adoption, met that goal two years ahead of schedule, and Mills once again traveled to the rural Somerset County campus to announce a new target: another 175,000 heat pumps by 2027. Maine needs skilled workers to reach this goal, de-

manding training initiatives from all corners of the state to build HVAC, refrigerant, and electrical knowledge in the clean energy workforce.

Without a strong pipeline, the state risks delays in reaching its heat pump target, putting its climate goals at risk.

So far, rural counties have seen some of the fastest rates of clean energy worker growth, according to state data. In Somerset County, where KVCC is located, the number of clean energy workers has grown by 44% since 2020.

As part of this push, the community college launched a high-tech heat pump training lab in 2021 and has trained over 300 students.

The initiative is one of many clean energy programs the school offers as part of a broader, state-supported effort to meet Maine’s goal of reaching 30,000 clean energy jobs by 2030

Efﬁciency Maine, a quasigovernmental agency that oversees the state’s energy efﬁciency programs, has invested more than $400,000 in installation and weatherization training programs at KVCC and supports 29 similar programs at other institutions each year

Another key piece of state support comes through the Governor’s Energy Ofﬁce’s Clean Energy Partnership, which has awarded nearly $5 million in grants for clean energy training and apprenticeship programs across the state since 2022 and has seen over 3,500 participants Businesses have also developed their own on-the-job training programs to help meet demand.

But the state still faces a daunting challenge: It must employ more than 14,000 new workers to reach its goal of 30,000 clean energy jobs by the end of the decade.

While the state says it remains dedicated to this goal, some in the industry worry federal funding cuts and tariffs could create challenges for the workforce development pipeline

Efforts underway in Maine

Heat pumps have emerged

as a pillar of Maine’s clean energy strategy: The units can reduce carbon dioxide emissions between 38% and 53% compared to a gas furnace, according to a 2022 study in the academic journal Energy Policy, and have been touted as a way to reduce energy costs.

The demand for cleaner energy has grown not only in response to the state’s climate goals, but also as Maine’s electricity costs rise.

A Maine Monitor analysis showed that electricity costs increased at the third-highest rate in the U.S between 2014 and 2024.

Workforce development has become a priority for the state as the clean energy industry grows, said Tagwongo Obomsawin, the program manager for the state’s Clean Energy Partnership, noting that it can provide good paying jobs for Mainers and reduce energy costs.

Heat pump training is just one of several clean energy programs offered through the Maine Community College System, which includes KVCC. The network of schools also trains students in electric vehicle maintenance, ﬁber optics, aquaculture, and more.

Dan Belyea, the system’s chief workforce development ofﬁcer, said short-term training and scholarship funding are centered on needs that arise in the industry, which the schools gauge by looking at labor market data and talking to employers. Programs that are highest in demand tend to include electrical and heat pump training, Belyea said.

More collaboration

In Freeport, Scott Libby, the owner of Royal River Heat Pumps, walked through his training center as he explained that all his workers go through heat pump training that starts with the basics, regardless of experience, to ensure each worker is equipped to handle the job

“A lot of these heat pumps have 12-year warranties,” Libby said. “That’s 4,380 days. The most important day is Day 1 It needs to be

installed properly.”

Libby, who has worked with the U.S. Department of Energy on workforce development and sits on a new energy-efficiency workforce subcommittee being developed by the Governor’s Energy Ofﬁce, said he’s aware of a number of different workforce development initiatives but that it’s difﬁcult to comprehend how they all work together

Libby emphasized the need for more collaboration between different workforce development efforts and a more systematic approach, with quality checks in place. He suggested putting more thought into designing industrial arts and home economics programs in middle and high schools to introduce students to different career pathways early on.

He also said more stringent licensing requirements could help with the quality of workers moving into the ﬁeld. As it stands, there is no speciﬁc licensing required to install heat pumps in Maine, though workers need an Environmental Protection Agency Section 608 license to deal with the refrigerant used inside the unit, and an electrical license to complete the wiring.

He acknowledged that new regulation could “cripple” workforce development

efforts but said the move is imperative to control the level of training workers receive and make sure everyone is qualiﬁed to install heat pumps.

Uncertainties lie ahead

At KVCC’s heat pump lab, Whittemore gestured at eight heat pumps mounted on prop walls used for training, listing the types of new units he hopes to get soon — ideally through donations from companies who have given units in the past.

Regulatory changes to refrigerants that went into effect this year mean the school needs to replace the heat pumps it uses to train students.

“Most of the procedures with the new refrigerants are the same. It’s just that we can’t put this new refrigerant in these existing heat pumps,” he said. “So I’ve got to get eight new heat pumps.”

The broader challenge he sees for the industry is tariffs, which he fears could lead to higher equipment prices and lower demand. This, in turn, could mean a lower need for workers.

Maine has two years to reach its goal of installing 275,000 heat pumps and ﬁve years to reach its goal of 30,000 clean energy jobs. But uncertainties in building Maine’s workforce lie ahead.

Obomsawin said a partnership the Energy Office has with the Department of Labor to provide career navigation services will continue into 2026, as will workforce development programs that received funding and are already operational. But she cautioned that it is still too early to know what impact policy changes at the federal level will have on the clean energy sector Efficiency Maine said that the state is still on track to achieve its heat pump goals at least for now Executive Director Michael Stoddard said that the heat pump rebate program has funding from the Electric Utility Conservation Program and the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative for at least the next three years. However, some smaller initiatives, such as a revolving loan to help Mainers buy new heat pump systems, face uncertainty as the federal grants funding the project are in flux. Libby, of Royal River Heat Pumps, has 40 years of HVAC industry experience and said funding uncertainty will make it a challenge to reach the state’s heat pump goal. “I think it’s definitely going to be harder,” Libby said. “I mean, I’m not ready to give up on it yet. I don’t think anybody is ready to give up on it.”

PHOTO By ELISSA MARDINEy

on a silent pilgrimage walk through the Grunewald nature preserve on March

PROVIDED PHOTO By KRISTIAN MORAVEC

Dave Whittemore stands next to two heat pump units attached to the training facility

SUNDAY, JUNe 15, 2025

CURTIS / by Ray Billingsley

SLYLOCK FOX / by Bob Weber Jr

GET FUZZY / by Darby Conley

HAGAR THE HORRIBLE / by Chris Browne

MOTHER GOOSE AND GRIMM / by Mike Peters

ZIGGY / by Tom Wilson

ZITS / by Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman

SALLY FORTH / by Francesco Marciuliano & Jim Keefe

PEARLS BEFORE SWINE /byStephan Pastis

directions: Make a 2- to 7-letter word from the letters in each row Add points of each word, using scoring directions at right. Finally, 7-letter words get 50-point bonus. “Blanks” used as any letter have no point value All the words are in the Official SCRABBLE® Players Dictionary, 5th Edition.

word game

instructions: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 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, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed.

todAY's Word — cHArAdes: shuhRADES: A game in which some players try to guess a word or phrase from the actions of other players.

Average mark 42 words Time limit 60 minutes Can you find 58 or more words in CHARADES?

ken ken

instructions: 1 -Each rowand each column must contain thenumbers 1through4 (easy) or 1through6 (challenging) without repeating 2 -The numbers within the heavily outlinedboxes, called cages, must combine using thegiven operation (inany order)toproduce the target numbersinthe top-left corners. 3 -Freebies: Fillinthe single-boxcages withthe numberinthe top-left corner

instructions: Sudoku is anumber-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 gridwith several given numbers. The object is to placethe numbers 1to 9in theempty squares so that each row,each column and each 3x3 boxcontains the same number only once. The difficultylevel of the Conceptis Sudoku increases from Monday to Sunday

directions: Complete thegridso that numbers 1–132 connect horizontally, vertically or diagonally

Sudoku

Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis

wuzzLes

Wild hand

Today’s deal is from a match between a team from Poland and a team from Brazil. At the other table, North passed over West’s three-club bid and there was no more bidding. Three clubs scored nine tricks.

At this table, North aggressively supported spades at the three level and South, Polish expert Krzysztof Martens, carried on to game Martens ruffed the opening club lead in dummy and led a heart toward his king. East rose with his ace and shifted to a trump, won by Martens in hand. He led the queen of clubs, covered with the king, and ruffed in dummy. East did not over-ruff with his natural trump trick, discarding a diamond instead.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) Gear up and get moving. Elbow grease, foresight and ingenuity will carry you to success Refuse to let frustration set in when you face a dead end; it’s your cue to take a different path and reinvent your journey.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) Use insight and charm to get to the bottom of any matter that eludes you. A playful approach will attract the right people and lead to lasting connections. Romance is favored.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) Emotions will take a turn for the worse if too much pressure is applied. Be kind, compromising and willing to put in the

Note that both East and South made excellent plays when they refused to over-ruff. It was South’s day to come out on top.

Tannah Hirsch welcomes readers’ responses sent in care of this newspaper or to Tribune Content Agency inc., 2225 Kenmore Ave., Suite 114, Buffalo, Ny 14207. E-mail responses may be sent to gorenbridge@ aol.com. © 2025 Tribune Content Agency

Martens led a low diamond from dummy and ruffed East’s queen. He cashed his two top spades, followed by the king of hearts, seeing the queen fall from East. Martens led a heart to dummy, which East ruffed with his last trump. East led the ace of diamonds, but Martens discarded instead of ruffing and East had to lead a diamond to dummy, giving declarer the rest of the tricks and his contract. Beautifully done!

effort. Think about how to nurture important relationships. VIRGO (Aug 23-Sept. 22) A pick-meup will change your perspective and offer a unique alternative. Treat yourself to something that calms your nerves or brings you joy Life is aboutchoices,sochoosewhatmakes you happy LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) Refuse to let outside influences ruin your day or your relationship with someone. Chooseeventsoractivitiesthatoffer mental stimulation and thought-provoking lifestyle alternatives.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) You can use force or finesse Dial back the

brawn and rely on your experience, wisdom and knowledge to move forward with grace and integrity Set boundaries, strive for equality and bare your soul

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) You have more options than you think. Hosting an event or attending a reunion will bring back memories that will shape how you move forward. With new and updated information, you’ll find the right path.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Bypass making big decisions when uncertainty prevails. Give yourself a chance to evaluate your life choices and to consider what you

might do differently Romance is on the rise.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Refuse to let anyone jerk you around. Be bold, blunt and brave; tell it like it is, and reveal your vision of what you want to unfold. The next step is to listen, digest and find common ground.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) Let go of what you no longer need in your life. Size up your situation and map out your route forward. Lower your overhead, simplify your relationships and specify what’s important. ARIES (March 21-April 19) Maintain a strict budget and an efficient

lifestyle. Choose kindness, offer solutions and keep the peace when dealing with domestic issues and uncertainty Put in the time and finish what you start.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Kind words andgestureswillleadtoinsideinformation and visibility Invest more time expanding your interests and connecting with people who have something to contribute.

The horoscope, an entertainment feature, is not based on scientific fact.

goren Bridge

1. France.2.Italy.3.Australia.4.Brazil. 5. Greece. 6. Spain. 7. Germany. 8. Monaco 9. China. 10. India.11. Jordan. 12. Cambodia 13. Tanzania.14. Peru. 15. United Arab Emirates.

SCORING: 24 to 30 points —congratulations, doctor; 18 to 23 points—honorsgraduate; 13 to 17 points —you’replenty smart, but no grind; 5to12points —you really shouldhit the booksharder;1point to 4points —enroll in remedial courses immediately; 0points who reads thequestions to you?

CryptoquoteAnswer word

Afather's love is forever imprinted on his child's heart. —Jennifer Williamson

Crossword Answers

sCrAbble Answers wuzzles Answers

jeFF mACnelly’sshoe/ by Gary Brookins &Susie MacNelly FoXtrot/ by BillAmend