The Times-Picayune 09-11-2025

Activist CharlieKirkfatally shot

Governor says it was‘politicalassassination’

BY HANNAH SCHOENBAUM, ALANNA DURKIN RICHER and MARK SHERMAN Associated Press

OREM, Utah Charlie Kirk, aconservative activist and close ally of President Donald Trump who played an influential role in rallying young Republican voters, was shot and killed Wednesday at aUtah college event in what the governor called apolitical assassination carried out from arooftop.

“This is adark day for our state.

It’satragic day for our nation,” said Utah Gov.Spencer Cox. “I wantto be very clear this is apolitical assassination.”

No one was in custody late Wednesday,though authorities weresearching fora new person of interest, accordingtoalaw enforcement official familiar with the matter who was not authorized to discussthe situation by nameand spoke on conditionofanonymity.

Authoritieshad earlierprovided evolving information on thestatus of the manhunt, with FBI Director

Kash Patel initially saying on social media thata“subject”had been taken into custody,only to later say that the person had been released after being questioned.

Authorities did not identify the person who had been in custody,a motive or any criminal charge.

But the circumstances of the shooting drew renewed attention to an escalatingthreat of political violenceinthe United States that in the last several years has

Cantrell pleads notguiltyto federalcorruptioncharges

Appearance marks first time aN.O.mayor has hadtoanswercriminal allegationsinoffice

BY JAMES FINN Staff writer

Mayor LaToya Cantrell appeared in federal court on Wednesday and pleaded not guilty toahost of corruption charges, setting up amonthslong court battle that’s poised to overshadow her finalmonths as New Orleans’ top official.

Wearing aroyal blue dress affixed

with agold bird-shaped pin, Cantrell stood silently before federal Magistrate Judge Karen Wells Roby as aprosecutor listed the 11 criminal countsshe now faces, including wire fraud, conspiracy to obstruct justice and lying to afederal grand jury

Cantrell made eye contact withthe prosecutor,Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, as he read the maximum penalties shefaces if convicted of thosecrimes: dozens of years of prison time andthousands of dollars in fines. Federalsentencingguidelines suggest she willface more lenient penalties if convicted.

Thecharges stemfrom an Aug. 15 grand jury indictmentinwhich prosecutors accused the mayor and her

police bodyguard of spending more than $70,000 in taxpayer dollars on leisurely trips to Scotland, Martha’s Vineyard andNapaValley. Cantrell andthe officer,JeffreyVappie, then schemed to cover up signs of an illicit affair they were pursuing, including by lying to FBIagentsand the grand jury and deleting evidence, prosecutors say In court, Cantrellspoke only to acknowledge that she understoodthe penalties she faces and to answer when Roby asked how shewishedto plead.

“Your honor,Iplead not guilty,” Cantrell said.

Saints set to sign long-term leasefor Dome

Deal couldkeepteam in N.O. foratleast anotherdecade

BY JEFF DUNCAN, ANTHONY McAULEY and TYLERBRIDGES Staff writers

TheNew Orleans Saints and Gov.Jeff Landry’s teamare closinginona new long-term leaseofthe CaesarsSuperdome that aims to keep the franchise rooted in New Orleans foratleast another decade.

The deal, which three sources familiar with the talks said could be announced as soon as next week, culminates morethan ayear of grueling, often contentiousnegotiations between theSaintsand the Louisiana Stadium andExposition District, the board that oversees the state-owned Superdome Neither theSaints nor thedistrict known as theSuperdome Commission, have announced specifics publicly.But the sources closetothe negotiations said theagreementcalls fora10-year lease followed by four five-year extensions, with theSaintsretainingthe right to exercise each extension. If allthe extensions areagreed on,itwould run through 2055.

The deal adds anew provision— absent from the Saints’ current lease —requiring arbitration and potential “equitable damages,” measures designed to discourageany future owner from moving the team outofNew Orleans.

The exact amount of that relocation penalty hasn’tbeen finalized, but the sources said it could reach $250 million.

Thedeal also involves other key provisions,whichcouldbemodified as the sideshashout final details. Among them: the Saints’ share of revenues from stadium concessions on game days; terms of the state lease for offices at Benson Tower; and other future revenue streams andcosts.

BY MARK BALLARD Staff writer

WASHINGTON Gov. Jeff Landry took excep-

tiontoU.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy’ssuggestion that the state surgeon generalcould easily get around recent federal hurdles forpeople trying to access the COVIDvaccine.

Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.last week proposed new restrictions foradminis-

tering the COVID vaccine, which many pharmacies have interpreted as requiring prescriptions. Cassidy,R-Baton Rouge, recommended Surgeon General Ralph Abraham write a “blanket prescription” that would allow drugstores to handle the inoculationsasthey didinthe past. Landry,a Republican,wrote on X: “The last time Ichecked you have aprescription pad, why don’tyou justleave aprescription for the dangerous Covid shot at your

district officeand anyone can swing by and get one! I am sure big pharmawould love you for that one!”

As state attorney general andgovernor,Landry has opposed federal policies regarding the use of the COVID vaccines.

He led efforts by other Republican-run states to set asidemandates that health care workers get vaccinated.

Senatorsuggested ways to circumvent newhurdles ä See VACCINE, page 7A

The two sides have wantedtosign the lease by Sept. 17 because that’sthe day an NFL owners subcommittee on special events will meet to begin considering whowill host Super Bowls beyond2028. After receiving broad acclaim for hosting the game in February,New Orleans hopes to be invited to bid on the 2031 SuperBowl.But it can do so only if the Saints have asigned lease agreement in effectfor theyear of the game, according to league policy

ä See SAINTS, page 7A

STAFF PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER

MayorLaToyaCantrell arrivesatthe Hale Boggs Federal Building forher Wednesday arraignmentoncorruptioncharges.

See CANTRELL, page 7A

ä See ACTIVIST, page 7A

THEDESERET NEWS PHOTO By TESS CROWLEy

Charlie Kirkhands out hats WednesdayatUtah ValleyUniversity in Orem, Utah. Kirk, aconservative activist, was shot and killed shortly after

Landry Cassidy

BRIEFS

3 critically wounded in shooting at Colo. school

DENVER Three teens were critically wounded Wednesday in a shooting at a high school in the foothills of suburban Denver, including the suspected shooter, authorities said The shooting was reported around 12:30 p.m. at Evergreen High School in Evergreen about 30 miles west of Denver, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Jacki Kelley said It is not clear what led up to the shooting or how the suspected shooter, believed to be a student at the school, was shot. None of the law enforcement officers who responded to the shooting is believed to have fired any shots, Kelley said

The shooting happened on school grounds, but it wasn’t immediately known whether it was inside the school building, she said.

All three teens taken to St. Anthony Hospital in Lakewood, Colorado, were shot, CEO Kevin Cullinan said. The high school with more than 900 students is largely surrounded by forest It is about a mile from the center of Evergreen, which has a population of 9,300 people.

Senate GOP stops effort for Epstein files’ release

WASHINGTON In a close vote, Senate Republicans defeated an effort Wednesday by Democrats to insert language into Congress’ annual defense authorization bill that would have forced the public release of case files on the sex trafficking investigation into the late Jeffrey Epstein. The Senate voted 51-49 to dismiss the changes to the bill, with Republican Sens Josh Hawley of Missouri and Rand Paul of Kentucky joining with all Democrats in opposition.

For months, Democrats have clamored for the release of what’s become known as the Epstein files, looking for practically every opportunity to force Republicans to either join their push for disclosure or publicly oppose a cause that many in the Republican base support. President Donald Trump as he was running for president signaled that he was open to releasing a full accounting of the case, but is now trying to dismiss the push as a “Democrat hoax.”

“I ask my Republican colleagues, after all those years you spent calling for accountability, for transparency, for getting to the bottom of these awful crimes, why won’t you vote yes?” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said in a floor speech Wednesday Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., said earlier this week that the Justice Department “has already released tons of files” on Epstein.

Meanwhile, a separate effort to force a vote on a similar bill in the House inched ahead.

Dog the Bounty Hunter’s son on leave after crash

Dog the Bounty Hunter’s son was temporarily relieved of his law enforcement duties after he was involved in a high-speed chase that killed a teenage boy in Alabama over the weekend Priceville police officer Garry Chapman was put on administrative leave Sunday, one day after the deadly two-vehicle crash in Hartselle, Priceville Mayor Sam Heflin told AL.com. He will remain sidelined pending the outcome of an investigation, as is standard procedure for any officers involved in a major incident.

Tristan Hollis, 17, was killed from the injuries he sustained in the crash, which also left five others injured. Police said it occurred Saturday around 8:30 p.m. at the intersection of Highway 36 and U.S. 31, after Chapman attempted to initiate a traffic stop with a suspected drunk driver, identified as Archie Hale. Instead of pulling over though, Hale attempted to flee, sparking a chase. It came to an end only after Hale’s vehicle slammed into Hollis’ minivan Six people — including Hollis, Hale, Hale’s passenger and three other boys also in the minivan — were all rushed to the hospital, where Hollis died a short time later, WHNT reported The rest of their conditions were not provided.

Trump Fed Board nominee advances

By The Associated Press

WASHINGTON A Senate committee on Wednesday approved the nomination of White House economic adviser Stephen Miran to the Federal Reserve’s board of governors, setting up a likely approval by the full Senate, which would make Miran the third Trump appointee to the seven-member board.

The White House has pushed for an expedited Senate approval of Miran, who was nominated by President Donald Trump to replace former Fed governor Adriana Kugler. Kugler stepped down Aug. 1. Miran would, if approved, simply finish her term, which expires in January

Miran may be approved by the full Senate in time for the Fed’s meeting next week, when it is widely expected to reduce its key short-term interest rate. The committee voted to approve Miran on partisan lines, 13-11, with all Democrats voting against confirmation.

Miran’s nomination has raised concerns about the Fed’s independence from day-to-day politics,

particularly since he said during a hearing last week that he would keep his job as head of the White House’s Council of Economic Advisers while on the Fed’s board, a historically unusual arrangement. Presidents have nominated members of their staffs to the Fed’s board before, but the nominees have always given up their White House jobs.

Miran said he would step down from his White House position if he is chosen for a longer term. Yet he can remain on the board after Kugler’s term ends in January, if no replacement is named.

The jockeying around the Fed is occurring as the economy is entering an uncertain and difficult period Inflation remains stubbornly above the central bank’s 2% target, though it hasn’t risen as much as many economists feared when Trump first imposed sweeping tariffs on nearly all imports. The Fed

typically would raise borrowing costs, or at least keep them elevated, to combat worsening inflation.

At the same time, hiring has weakened considerably and the unemployment rate rose last month to a still-low 4.3%. The central bank often takes the opposite approach when unemployment rises and cuts rates, to spur more borrowing, spending, and growth.

Fed Chair Jerome Powell signaled late last month that the Fed may focus more on risks to the job market in the coming months, which makes rate cuts more likely Trump appeals ruling on Cook

The Trump administration on Wednesday appealed a ruling blocking him from firing Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook as he seeks more control over the traditionally independent board.

The notice of appeal came hours after U.S. District Judge Jia Cobb handed down the ruling. The White House has insisted Trump, a Republican, has the right to fire Cook over over allegations raised by one of his appointees that she commit-

Protests turn new French PM’s first day into chaos

Protesters block roads, set fires across France

BY JOHN LEICESTER, JEFFREY SCHAEFFER and THOMAS ADAMSON Associated Press

PARIS A day of anti-government action across France on Wednesday saw streets choked with smoke, barricades in flames and volleys of tear gas as protesters denounced budget cuts and political turmoil.

The nationwide “Block Everything” campaign presented a challenge to President Emmanuel Macron and turned Sébastien Lecornu’s first day as prime minister into a baptism of fire.

Although falling short of its self-declared intention of total disruption, the protests still managed to paralyze parts of daily life and ignite hundreds of hot spots across the country

The deployment of 80,000 police officers broke up barricades and dragged hundreds of protesters into custody yet flashpoints multiplied In Rennes, a bus was torched In the southwest, electrical cables were severed, halting train services and snarling traffic.

By evening Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau said nearly 200,000 people had taken to the streets nationwide, while the CGT union, one of France’s largest labor confederations, claimed closer to 250,000.

His ministry reported more than 450 arrests, hundreds held in custody, over a dozen officers injured, and more than 800 protest actions from rallies to street fires across the country Retailleau called the day “a defeat for those who wanted to block the country.” Yet the government’s own tally told a different story

The “Bloquons Tout,” or “Block Everything,” protests did not match the scale of France’s 2018 yellow vest revolt, but still underscored the cycle of unrest that has dogged Macron’s presidency: mass deployments, bursts of violence, and repeated clashes between the government and the streets.

After his reelection in 2022, Macron faced firestorms of anger over unpopular pension reforms and nationwide unrest and rioting in 2023 after the deadly police shooting of a teenager on Paris’ outskirts.

Still, demonstrations and sporadic clashes with riot police in Paris and elsewhere Wednesday added to a sense of crisis that has again gripped France following its latest government collapse on Monday, when Prime Minister François

Bayrou lost a parliamentary confidence vote. The protests immediately presented a challenge to Bayrou’s replacement, Lecornu, installed Wednesday Groups of protesters who repeatedly tried to block Paris’ beltway during the morning rush hour were dispersed by police using tear gas. Elsewhere in the capital, protesters piled up trash cans and hurled objects at police officers. Firefighters were called out to a fire in a restaurant in the downtown Châtelet neighborhood, where thousands of protesters gathered peacefully Road blockades, traffic slowdowns and other protests were widely spread — from the southern port city of Marseille to Lille and Caen in the north, and Nantes and Rennes in the west to Grenoble and Lyon in the southeast. Authorities reported demonstrations in small towns, too.

Afternoon gatherings of thousands of people in central Paris were peaceful and good-humored, with placards taking aim at Macron and his new prime minister “Lecornu, you’re not welcome,” read a placard brandished by a group of graphic design students

“One prime minister has just been ousted and straight away we get another from the right,” said student Baptiste Sagot, 21. “They’re trying to make working people, young students, retirees — all people in difficulty — bear all the effort instead of taxing wealth.”

France’s prolonged cycle of political instability, with Macron’s minority governments lurching from crisis to crisis, has fueled widespread discontent.

“Block Everything” gathered momentum over the summer on social media and encrypted chats, including on Telegram. Pavel Durov, Telegram’s Russianborn founder now under investigation in France for alleged criminal activity on the messaging app, said he is “proud” the platform was used to organize antiMacron rallies.

The movement’s call for a day of blockades, strikes, boycotts, demonstrations and other acts of protest came as Bayrou was preparing to cut public spending by $51 billion to rein in France’s growing deficit and trillions in debts. He also proposed the elimination of two public holidays from the country’s annual calendar which proved wildly unpopular Lecornu, who previously served as defense minister, now inherits the task of addressing France’s budget difficulties, facing the same political instability and widespread hostility to Macron that contributed to Bayrou’s undoing.

ted mortgage fraud related to two properties she bought before she joined the Fed.

The case could soon reach the Supreme Court, where the conservative majority has allowed Trump to fire several board members of other independent agencies but has suggested that power has limitations at the Federal Reserve.

Cook’s lawyers have argued that firing her was unlawful because presidents can only fire Fed governors for cause, which has typically meant poor job performance or misconduct The judge found the president’s removal power is limited to actions taken during a governor’s time in office.

Cook is accused of saying that both her properties, in Michigan and Georgia, were primary residences, which could have resulted in lower down payments and mortgage rates. Her lawsuit denied the allegations without providing details. Her attorneys said she should have gotten a chance to respond to them before getting fired. Cook is set to participate in next week’s Fed meeting.

Judge blocks cutoff of some social services

BY MAKIYA SEMINERA Associated Press

A federal judge on Wednesday blocked Trump administration restrictions on services for immigrants in the country illegally, including the federal preschool program Head Start, health clinics and adult education.

The order from the judge in U.S District Court in Rhode Island applies to 20 states and the District of Columbia, whose attorneys general, all Democrats, sued the administration. It puts the administration’s reinterpretation of a Clinton-era federal policy on hold while the case is decided.

Under the proposed changes, some community-level programs would be reclassified as federal public benefits, making them inaccessible to people without legal status. Individual public benefits, such as food stamps and college financial aid, have been largely unavailable to people in the country without legal status.

U.S. District Judge Mary McElroy, who was appointed by Trump in 2019, said in her order that the policy rollout was “rushed” in a way that would worsen the impact for people cut off from community services and those tasked with verifying eligibility

“The Government argues that it has somehow interpreted this statute incorrectly for the nearly thirty years that it has been the law,” McElroy wrote. “In its view, everyone has misunderstood it from the start — at least until last month, when the right way to read it became clear to the Government. The Court is skeptical of that.” Messages seeking comment were left with the departments of health and human services, education, labor and justice, which each were named as defendants. The states’ lawsuit argued the government failed to follow the rulemaking process and did not provide the required notice on conditions placed on federal funds.

Miran

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By THIBAULT CAMUS Riot police officers take position in front of a burning restaurant during the ‘Block Everything’ protest movement in Paris on Wednesday.

NATO jets shoot down Russian drones in Poland

BY CLAUDIA CIOBANU, ILLIA NOVIKOV and RAFAL NIEDZIELSKI Associated Press

WOHYN, Poland Multiple Russian drones crossed into Poland in what European officials described Wednesday as a deliberate provocation, causing NATO to send fighter jets to shoot them down. A NATO spokesman said it was the first time the alliance confronted a potential threat in its airspace.

The incursion, which occurred during a wave of strikes by the Kremlin on Ukraine, and the NATO response swiftly raised fears that the war could spill over — a fear that has been growing in Europe as Russia steps up its attacks and peace efforts go nowhere.

Russia’s Defense Ministry said it did not target Poland, while Belarus, a close ally of Moscow, said it tracked some drones that “lost their course” because they were jammed.

However, several European leaders said they believed the incursion amounted to an intentional expansion of Russia’s assault against Ukraine.

“Russia’s war is escalating, not ending,” European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas told reporters in Brussels. “What (Russian President Vladimir) Putin wants to do is to test us. What happened in Poland is a game changer,” and it should result in stronger sanctions.

Polish airspace has been violated many times since Russia’s fullscale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, but never on this scale in Poland or anywhere else in NATO territory.

Poland said some of the drones came from Belarus, where Russian and Belarusian troops have begun gathering for war games

at a site in Wohyn, Poland, on Wednesday.

scheduled to start Friday

It was not immediately clear how many drones were involved

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk told parliament 19 violations were recorded over seven hours, but he said information was still being gathered. Polish authorities said nine crash sites were found, with some of them hundreds of kilometers from the border

“There are definitely no grounds to suspect that this was a course correction mistake or the like,”

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius told parliament. “These drones were very clearly put on this course deliberately.”

Dutch fighter jets came to Poland’s aid and intercepted some drones. Polish Foreign Minister Radek Sikorski later thanked the Dutch government “for the magnificent performance of Dutch pilots in neutralizing” the drones.

Drones reported from Belarus

Tusk told parliament that the first violation came at approximately 11:30 p.m. Tuesday and the last around 6:30 a.m. Wednesday Earlier, Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz wrote on X that more than 10 objects crossed into Polish airspace.

“What is new, in the worst sense of the word, is the direction from which the drones came. This is the first time in this war that they did not come from Ukraine as a result of errors or minor Russian provocations. For the first time, a significant portion of the drones came directly from Belarus,” Tusk said in parliament.

The Russian Defense Ministry said its overnight strikes targeted Ukraine’s military-industrial complex in the western regions of the country — which border Poland — with no planned targets on Polish

territory

In an unusual message of outreach, the ministry said it was ready to hold consultations with Poland’s Defense Ministry Belarusian Maj. Gen. Pavel Muraveiko, the chief of the country’s general staff and first deputy defense minister, appeared to try to put some distance between his country and the incursion.

In an online statement, he said that as Russia and Ukraine traded drone strikes overnight, Belarusian air defense forces tracked “drones that lost their course” after they were jammed, adding that Belarusian forces warned their Polish and Lithuanian counterparts about “unidentified aircraft” approaching their territory

A house was hit in the village of Wyryki in the Lublin region near the Ukrainian border, Mayor Bernard Blaszczuk told the TVP Info

television news channel. The roof was severely damaged.

NATO members vow support NATO air defenses supported Poland in what spokesman Col. Martin O’Donnell called “the first time NATO planes have engaged potential threats in Allied airspace.” That included the Dutch F-35 fighter jets that intercepted drones, according to Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans.

The alliance “is committed to defending every kilometer of NATO territory, including our airspace,” O’Donnell said.

Tusk told parliament that consultations took place under Article 4 of the NATO treaty — a clause that allows countries to call for urgent discussions with their allies. The consultations happened Wednesday at a previously planned meeting. They do not automatically lead to any action under Article 5, which is NATO’s collective security guarantee.

Russian attacks hit Ukraine

Meanwhile, the Ukrainian air force said Russia fired 415 strike and decoy drones, as well as 42 cruise missiles and one ballistic missile overnight. Ukrainian air defenses intercepted or jammed 386 drones and 27 cruise missiles, according to the report.

One person was killed and at least five wounded, while several homes and businesses were damaged, according to local officials.

The Russian Defense Ministry said in its morning report Wednesday that it had destroyed 122 Ukrainian drones over various Russian regions overnight, including over the illegally annexed Crimea and areas of the Black Sea.

Trump offers ambiguous initial response to drone incursion

BY AAMER MADHANI Associated Press

WASHINGTON President Donald Trump on Wednesday offered an ambiguous initial response to Russia’s drone incursion into Poland’s airspace, a provocative act by Moscow that has put the United States’ NATO allies in Europe on edge.

“What’s with Russia violating Poland’s airspace with drones? Here we go!” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform late Wednesday morning, nearly a half-day after Poland announced that several Russian drones entered its territory over the course of many hours and were shot down with help from NATO allies. White House officials did not immediately respond to queries about Trump’s cryptic comments about the incursion. It was the first time the transatlantic alliance has confronted a potential threat in its airspace, scrambling jets to shoot the Russian drones out of the sky

Volunteers prep millions of meals for New Yorkers for anniversary of 9/11

BY PHILIP MARCELO Associated Press

NEW YORK When longtime friends David Paine and Jay Winuk set out to encourage people to take part in volunteer and service projects on the anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, their goal was simple: to turn a day of unimaginable tragedy into a day for doing good.

Now, as the nation prepares to mark the 24th anniversary of 9/11, that lofty mission has evolved into a national day of service where people across the country participate in projects that honor the nearly 3,000 dead.

The nationwide effort kicked off Wednesday as thousands of volunteers began assembling packaged meals for needy New Yorkers in a festive atmosphere aboard the USS Intrepid Teams of volunteers filled small plastic bags with various ingredients for making a kind of jambalaya, including uncooked rice, dehydrated vegetables, lentils, salt and other seasonings as a DJ blasted upbeat tunes from

the wing of an aircraft carrier-turned-museum.

“The vision was to create a ritual,” said Winuk, co-founder and executive vice president of 9/11 Day, the nonprofit organizing the event. “We couldn’t know that it would continue to resonate with people more than two decades later.”

The two-day event, which runs through Thursday aims to package more than 2 million meals for local food banks. It is among 25 largescale volunteer service projects being organized in some two dozen cities across the country

Overall, 9/11 Day estimates some 30 million Americans will participate in some form with the day of service, which Congress enshrined into law in 2009.

Beside meal packing, volunteers will be taking part in food and clothing drives, park and neighborhood cleanups blood banks and other community events, the organization says Even smaller acts of kindness count, like greeting strangers on the street or holding the door for someone.

“It’s really just meant to be a day when we remember and rekindle the way we all felt and the way that we all behaved in the immediate aftermath of the attack,” said Paine, who co-founded 9/11 Day and serves as its president. “When we weren’t red states or blue states We were just human beings wanting to help one another.”

Winuk says it’s been “gratifying” to see Americans embrace the call to service and good deeds. His brother, Glenn Winuk, died on Sept. 11 while serving as volunteer firefighter and EMT

“Glenn would have been first in line for this kind of thing. He lived his life and died in service to other people,” he said.

The call seems to be resonating in particular with the some 100 million younger Americans born after the 2001 attacks, Paine added.

“The amazing thing about 9/11 was that it brought our country together in a way that we had never experienced before, and I think there’s a longing for that sense of unity again,” he said.

But Trump’s comment stood in sharp contrast to the strong condemnation by several European leaders and was notably less robust than that of his ambassador to NATO, Matthew Whitaker

“We stand by our @NATO Allies in the face of these airspace violations and will defend every inch of NATO territory,” Whitaker posted on X. Trump spoke Wednesday with Polish President Karol Nawrocki, who was at the White House last week for talks in which the two leaders discussed expanding the U.S. military presence in Poland. Following the call, Nawrocki posted on X that the conversation ”confirmed the unity of our alliance.”

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO Police and military police secure parts of a damaged unidentified aerial vehicle shot down by Polish authorities

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By yUKI IWAMURA

Volunteers work during the ‘NyC Meal Pack For 9/11 Day’ at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New york on Wednesday.

Thousands flood Mo.Capitol to protestmaps

BY KACEN BAYLESS The Kansas City Star (TNS)

JEFFERSON CITY,Mo. The massive crowd first gathered on the front steps of the MissouriCapitol.

One by one,they entered the domed building where state laws aremade, holding signs and hurling chants. They traveled from Kansas City,St. Louis and across rural Missouri. Thousands of people descended on Jefferson City on Wednesday to protest Republican Gov.Mike Kehoe’sspecial session that would gerrymander Missouri’scongressional map and overhaul thestate’s initiative petition process.

“NO RIGGED MAPS,” saidone sign. “LET EVERYVOTE COUNT,” said another Swarms of people, including union workers, activists and residents, held one of the largest rallies inside the Capitol rotunda in recent years. They roamed the halls of the building and packed into the gallery overlooking the Missouri Senate.

The protest came aday after the MissouriHouse approved the proposalsinparty-linevotes. Senate Republicansare hoping to pass both by the end of this week, but SenateDemocrats will likelyattempt to halt them through aprolonged filibuster Kehoe’sspecial session call

changewould divide Kansas City into districts thatwould include vast rural areas of the state.

came under pressure from President Donald Trump, who has urged Republican states to redraw their U.S.House maps to ensure Republican control of Congress.

Trumphas ordered Republican

senatorstofallinlineand passit with no changes. “I will be watching closely,” theRepublican president posted on social media.

Theefforthas thrust Missouri into anational redistricting fight

spearheaded by Trump’sadministration. In Missouri, thegoalistomake it easier for aRepublican to win Democratic U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver’s5th Congressional Dis-

trict.

Trumpmade that effort explicitly clear,saying the new mapwould give Missourians “the opportunity to elect an additional MAGA Republican in the 2026 Midterm Elections.”

“The Missouri Senate must pass thisMap now,ASIS, to deliver a gigantic Victory forRepublicans in the ‘Show Me State,’ and across the Country,” the post said.

Trump’s post undercut arguments from Missouri Republicans that the mid-decade redistricting effort wasfor reasons other than appeasing theRepublican president.

ProtestattendeeJim Edson emphasized that Kansas Citians would be sharing the congressionaldistricts andrepresentatives as people living in rural parts of central,northernand southern Missouri.

Those residents have different needs than people in Kansas City. He worries about how achange in congressional leadership would affect the city’spriorities and federal funding.

“Wehave nothing in common with alot of thefolks south of Kansas City,” Edson said.

Roughly twohours after the protest began, the Republican-controlledMissouri Senate charged forward and gaveled intosession, intent on redrawing the mapand overhauling the petition process.

TexasA&M prof firedafter recorded classroomconfrontation

Studentobjected to lesson covering gender identity

BY JUAN A. LOZANO Associated Press

HOUSTON Aprofessor atTexas

A&M University was fired and others were removed fromtheir positions after avideo surfaced in which astudent confronted the instructor over her teaching of issuesrelated to gender identityina class on children’sliterature.

The firing of Melissa McCoul, who had been asenior lecturerin the English department, came after political pressure from Republican lawmakers, including Gov Greg Abbott, who had called for her termination.

Theincident prompted Glenn Hegar,the chancellor of the Texas A&M University System, to order an audit of courses at all12schools in the system.

“It is unacceptable for A&M System faculty to push apersonal politicalagenda,” Hegar said in a statement on Monday.“We have beentasked with training thenext generation of teachers and child care professionals. That responsibility should prioritizeprotecting children not engaging in indoctrination.”

TexasA&M University President Mark A. Welsh III said in a statement Tuesday he directed the campusprovost to fire McCoul afterlearning theinstructorhad continued teaching content in acourse on children’sliterature “that did not align with any reasonable expectationofstandard curriculum

for thecourse.”

Welsh said theissue had been raised earlierthis summer and he had“made it clear to ouracademicleadershipthatcourse content must match catalog descriptionsfor each and every one of our course sections.” Welshsaid he learned on Monday thatthis was not takingplace.

“This isn’tabout academicfreedom;it’sabout academic responsibility,”Welsh said.

Welsh also ordered theremoval of the dean of the College of Arts andSciences andthe head of the English departmentfrom their administrative positions.

The actions by Texas A&M were criticized by faculty andwriters’ groups.

“Weare witnessing the death of academic freedom in Texas, the remaking of universitiesastools

of authoritarianism that suppress free thought,” Jonathan Friedman, Sy Syms Managing Director of U.S. Free Expression Programs at PEN America, said in astatement.

Thecontroversy beganonMonday after Republican state Rep. BrianHarrison posted avideo, audio recordings andother materials on athread on the social media site X. Harrison called forthe professor and Welsh to be fired for“DEI and LGBTQ indoctrination.”

In onevideo, afemalestudent and the professor can be heard arguing over genderidentity being taught in achildren’sliterature class.The student and professor arenot shownand it’s unclear when the video was taken.

“Thisalso very much goes against not only myself but alot of people’sreligious beliefs.And so Iamnot going to participate

in this because it’snot legal and I don’twanttopromotesomething that is against our president’slaws as wellasagainst my religious beliefs,” the student could be heard saying in the video.

“If youare uncomfortable in this class youdohavethe right to leave. What we are doingisnot illegal,” the professor said. In her back-and-forth withthe professor, thestudent mentioned an executive orderthatPresident Donald Trumpsigned earlier this year in which he said “it is the policy of the UnitedStates to recognize twosexes, maleand female.”

Anew Texas law took effect on Sept. 1that forbids Texas K-12 schoolsfromteaching aboutsexual orientation or gender identity The new law does not apply to universities and other institutions of higher education.

California legislator’s long-shot proposal:Break up stateinto2

BY KAITLYN SCHALLHORN

BY MICHELLEL.PRICE

Associated Press

WASHINGTON— Former Vice President KamalaHarris says it was “recklessness” for Democratsto leave it to President JoeBiden to decide whethertocontinue seeking another term lastyear,but she defends his ability to do the job, according to an excerpt of her new book.

Harris, in an excerpt of“107 Days” published Wednesdayin The Atlantic, writes thatasquestions swirled about whether the then-81-year-old Biden should seek reelection, she andothers left the decision to him and first lady Jill Biden.

“Was it grace, or was it recklessness? In retrospect, Ithink it was recklessness,” Harris said.

Theremarks are the first time

Harris has been publicly critical of Biden’sdecision to runagain —anill-fated decisionthatsaw himdrop out in July 2024 after a disastrousdebateperformance, leaving her to head up the Democratic ticket and ultimately lose to Republican Donald Trump.

“The stakes were simply too high,” Harris writes in the book

“This wasn’ta choice that should have been left to an individual’s ego, an individual’s ambition. It should havebeenmorethana personal decision.

Biden’soffice did not immediatelyhave acomment Wednesday.

Harrishad avoided much criticism of the president sheserved besideand defendedhim amid questionsabout his mental acuity.

In the book excerpt,Harris con-

tinues to defend Biden’sabilityto do thejob but describes him in 2024 andespecially at thetimeof his “debatedebacle” as “tired.”

“On his worst day, he was more deeplyknowledgeable, more capable of exercising judgment, and far more compassionate than Donald Trump on his best. But at 81, Joe got tired. That’swhen his ageshowed in physical andverbal stumbles,”Harris writes.

Harris alsoblames those close to Biden for unflattering media coverage throughout the time she served as vice president

Harris writes that she often learned that Biden’sstaff was “adding fuel to negative narratives” that surrounded her, such as stories about hervicepresidential office being in disarray and having high turnover

TheOrangeCounty Register (TNS)

Republican Assembly Leader James Gallagher is behind alongshot effort to split California into twoseparate states.

He now thinks Orange County should be added to the new proposed state, comprised mostly of inland counties. Gallagher floated his California split proposal two weeks ago, amid legislative Democrats’ efforts to advanceamidcycle congressional redistricting proposal. Voters in November,inaspecial election,willdecidewhether to enact partisan maps for the next three congressional elections —a move proponents say is meantto countersimilar gerrymandering efforts in Republican-led states.

In an Xpost on Wednesday

the Assembly GOP leader said he thinks Orange County should moveinto that inland state.

“In addition to being an iconic California county, Orange would be so severely(gerrymandered) under Prop. 50 that they would lose representationtoL.A.,” Gallagher,R-East Nicolaus, said in a post on X. “Wecannotallowthatto happen! Theydeserve representation that is true to their communities and interests.”

Thejoint resolution that Gallagher introduced, calling fora51st state, is co-authored by several otherRepublicansinthe Statehouse.

Butthe ideawould have to be approved by both houses of the state legislature. Congress would also have to vote for the formation of anew state.

It’s ahighly unlikely proposal.

KANSAS CITy STAR PHOTOByTAMMy LJUNGBLAD

People gatheratthe Missouri StatehouseinJefferson CityonWednesday to protest the Legislature’seffortsto changethe state’scongressional district maps. Theproposed

Trump’s emergency order for D.C. hits limit

But 13 bills about D.C. control are in House committee

BY GARY FIELDS and LEAH ASKARINAM Associated Press

WASHINGTON President Donald Trump’s emergency order over the nation’s capital, which federalized its police force and launched a surge of law enforcement into the city, was set to expire overnight Wednesday after Congress failed to extend it.

But the clash between Republicans and the heavily Democratic district over its autonomy was only set to intensify, with a House committee beginning to debate 13 bills that would wrest away even more of the city’s control if approved.

up to the federal takeover Congress, satisfied by the steps that Bowser has taken to ensure that the cooperation with the city and its police force will continue, decided not to extend the emergency, returning the police to district control.

But Bowser must now pivot to a Congress that has jurisdiction over the city The next order of business is a series of proposals that were to be debated on Wednesday by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

Thirteen of the bills call for repealing or changing D.C. laws. Some provisions in play would remove the position of the district’s elected attorney general, who recently asked a judge to intervene in the takeover

question is whether they can get through the filibusterproof Senate D.C. activists have already begun lobbying Senate Democrats. Bowser urged the leaders of the House Oversight Committee to reject those proposals.

Ohio Gov Mike DeWine said in a statement that he had approved a request from the Secretary of the Army for 150 military police to carry out patrols in Washington through Nov 30.

For the last 30 days, the

Mayor Muriel Bowser’s office said the order expires at midnight. The National Guard and some other federal agencies will continue their deployment, and at least some National Guard troops from outside the District of Columbia will remain in the nation’s capital at least through the end of November at the request of the Trump administration.

city’s local Metropolitan Police Department has been under the control of the president for use in what he described as a crime-fighting initiative.

Local police joined hundreds of federal law enforcement officers and agents on sweeps and roundups and other police opera-

tions. About 2,000 members of the National Guard from D.C. as well as seven states were also part of the surge of law enforcement.

Crime has dropped during the surge, according to figures from the White House and the local police department, but data also showed crime was falling in the lead-

Others would allow the president to appoint someone to the position.

There is also a move to lower the age of trying juveniles to 14 from 16 for certain crimes, and one to change the bail system and remove methods the council can use to extend emergency bills.

Even if the bills pass the committee and House, the

She argued that a bill sponsored by Rep. Paul Gosar, a member of the conservative House Freedom Caucus, would “make the District less efficient, competitive, and responsive.” She said she looks forward to working with the committee to build a “productive partnership” that “respects the will of D.C. residents and honors the principles of home rule.” Republican Rep. Ron Estes and several Republican colleagues said they want their constituents to feel safe visiting the capital, and noted the recent murder of an intern who worked in Estes’ office. “We want to make sure that we have a capital that Americans are proud of,” Estes said. Bowser has said repeatedly that statehood, a nonstarter for Republicans in Congress, is the only solution.

Teachers unions sue over immigration crackdown

BY MORIAH BALINGIT Associated Press

WASHINGTON Labor unions representing millions of educators and school employees are suing President Donald Trump’s administration over its immigration crackdown, saying arrests near school campuses are terrorizing children and their teachers, leading some students to drop out.

At the start of Trump’s second term, his Republican administration said it would allow immigration arrests at schools — long considered off limits. That violated the law, argues the lawsuit from the two largest U.S. teacher unions, the National Education Association and the American Federation of Teachers, which represent more than 4 million school employees nationwide.

Also joining the lawsuit are educators from an Oregon preschool where masked agents broke a car window and dragged a student’s father from his car shortly after the child had been dropped off The ar-

rival of police prompted the school to go into a lockdown, with teachers playing music so students couldn’t hear the commotion outside

The educators are joining a lawsuit filed in April by an Oregon farmworker union and a group of churches, challenging the Trump administration’s decision to open houses of worship to immigration enforcement as well. The amended lawsuit was filed Tuesday in federal court in Eugene, Oregon Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said immigration officers use discretion when making arrests at schools or churches.

“Officers would need secondary supervisor approval before any action can be taken in locations such as a church or a school,” McLaughlin said. “We expect these to be extremely rare.”

‘Sensitive locations’ memo

For nearly three decades, immigration agents were instructed to steer clear of “sensitive locations” like schools, hospitals and places

of worship, except under extraordinary circumstances Homeland Security, according to a 2021 memo, could “accomplish (its) enforcement mission without denying or limiting individuals’ access to needed medical care, children access to their schools, the displaced access to food and shelter, people of faith access to their places of worship.”

A day after Trump took office, the department rescinded the memo and instead urged agents to use “common sense” when operating near schools and churches. In a statement, officials outlined their reasoning behind the move: “Criminals will no longer be able to hide in America’s schools and churches to avoid arrest.”

The lawsuit describes several instances of masked agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement making arrests in and around school and church grounds. In Los Angeles, masked border patrol officers descended on a car parked next to a high school and ordered a 15-year-old boy with disabilities out at

S. Korea says plane carrying workers from Hyundai plant will leave Atlanta

BY RUSS BYNUM, HYUNG-JIN KIM and KIM TONG-HYUNG Associated Press

FOLKSTON, Ga. — A South Korean charter plane arrived in Atlanta on Wednesday to take home Korean workers detained in an immigration raid in Georgia last week. Its planned return the same day was canceled, and South Korea’s Foreign Ministry later said the flight would take place Thursday at noon, without giving further details. A total of 475 workers, more than 300 of them South Koreans, were rounded up in the Sept. 4 raid at the battery factory under construction at Hyundai’s sprawling auto plant. U.S. authorities released video showing some being shackled with chains around their hands, ankles and waists, causing shock and a sense of betrayal among many in South Korea, a key U.S. ally.

South Korea’s government later said it reached an agreement with the U.S. for the release of the workers.

South Korean TV footage showed the charter plane, a Boeing 747-8i from Korean Air, taking off at Incheon International Airport, just west of Seoul, and it landed in Atlanta on Wednesday morning.

The Foreign Ministry said the plane was not able to depart from the U.S. the same day, as South Korea wished, due to an unspecified reason involving the U.S. side.

During a visit to Washington on Wednesday, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun met U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and told him that his country’s people were left with “big pains and shocks” because the video of the workers’ arrests was publicly disclosed, his ministry said in a statement.

Cho called for the U.S. administration to help the workers leave as soon as possible — without being handcuffed — and to make sure they do not face problems in future reentry to the U.S., the statement said The workers were being held at an immigration detention center in Folkston, in southeast Georgia. Three empty buses were parked at the detention center.

South Korean officials said they have been negotiating with the U.S. to win “voluntary” departures of the workers, rather than deportations that could result in making them ineligible to return to the U.S. for up to 10 years.

The workplace raid by the U.S. Homeland Security agency was its largest yet as it pursues its mass deportation agenda. The Georgia battery plant, a joint venture between Hyundai and LG Energy Solution, is one of more than 20 major industrial sites that South Korean companies are currently building in the United States.

Many South Koreans view the raid as a source of na-

tional disgrace and remain stunned by it. Only 10 days earlier, President Lee Jae Myung and U.S. President Donald Trump held their first summit in Washington, on Aug. 25. In late July, South Korea also promised hundreds of billions of dollars in U.S investments to reach a tariff deal.

U.S. authorities said some of the detained workers had illegally crossed the U.S. border, while others entered legally but had expired visas or entered on visa waivers that prohibited them from working.

But South Korean experts and officials said Washington has yet to act on Seoul’s yearslong demand to ensure a visa system to accommodate skilled Korean workers, though it has been pressing South Korea to expand industrial investments in the U.S.

South Korean companies have been relying on shortterm visitor visas or Electronic System for Travel Authorization to send workers who are needed to launch manufacturing sites and handle other setup tasks, a practice that had been largely tolerated for years. LG Energy Solution, which employed most of the detained workers, instructed its South Korean employees in the U.S. on B-1 or B-2 short-term visit visas not to report to work until further notice and told those with ESTAs to return home immediately

gunpoint while searching for a man with gang ties. They handcuffed him and only released him when they discovered they had the wrong person.

Student attendance fell

In the months following Trump’s inauguration, some school districts reported lower attendance as immigrant families kept their children home or, in some cases, left the country. In California’s Central Valley, immigration raids in January and February coincided with a 22% spike in student absences compared with the previous two school years,

according to a study from Stanford University economist Thomas Dee and Big Local News.

The lawsuit includes testimonials from unnamed teachers who report seeing increased anxiety and decreased participation and attendance from students who are either immigrants or the children of immigrants.

High school teachers in Pennsylvania and Virginia said some students stopped showing up in the spring, fearful they would be arrested on campus. A speech pathologist at a California elementary school said immigrant parents were reluctant

to sign up their children for special education services because it would mean giving more information to the school. A Texas high school teacher for students learning English said enrollment in her classes has dropped precipitously

“America’s classrooms must be safe and welcoming places of learning and discovery,” said Randi Weingarten, president of the AFT Becky Pringle, president of the National Education Association, said the Trump administration is creating fear and chaos and “our students, schools, and communities are paying the price.”

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JOSE LUIS MAGANA

Members of the Louisiana National Guard patrol the National Mall Sunday in Washington.

BRIEFS

FROM WIRE REPORTS

Musk loses crown as world’s richest to Ellison

NEW YORK Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison wrested the title of the world’s richest man from longtime holder Elon Musk early Wednesday, according to wealth tracker Bloomberg, as stock in his software giant rocketed more than a third in a stunning few minutes of trading.

A college dropout, the 81-year-old Ellison is now worth $393 billion, Bloomberg says, several billion more than Musk, who became the world’s richest for the first time four years ago. Stock in one of Musk’s biggest holdings, Tesla, has been moving in the opposite direction of Oracle’s, dropping 14% so far this year as of Tuesday

The switch in the ranking came after a blockbuster earnings report from Oracle powered by multibillion-dollar orders from customers as the artificial-intelligence race heats up.

Labor Department

watchdog to audit data

WASHINGTON A government watchdog says it will review how a Labor Department agency compiles and reports some of the nation’s highest profile economic data, just two days after the agency made a sharp downward revision in its estimate of the number of jobs.

A spokesperson for the department’s Office of the Inspector General said Wednesday that it is launching a review of “the challenges that Bureau of Labor Statistics encounters collecting and reporting closely watched economic data.”

The audit will focus on the agency’s reports on inflation and employment, a Wednesday letter to BLS acting commissioner William Wiatrowski said. Both reports are considered definitive measures of those two key aspects of the U.S. economy On Tuesday, the BLS released annual revisions to its employment figures that showed there were 911,000 fewer jobs created in the year ending in March 2025, a deep reduction that suggested the job market was much weaker in 2024 and earlier this year than previously thought. The initial data is compiled based on surveys of about 120,000 companies, and the revisions are then made based on actual job rolls employers then submit quarterly to state unemployment tax offices.

RaceTrac to acquire Potbelly for $566M Sandwich maker Potbelly is being acquired by the gas station and convenience store chain RaceTrac for $566 million.

Potbelly, which was founded in Chicago in 1977, has 445 restaurants across the U.S. The company said the deal with RaceTrac will help it reach its goal of quadrupling in size to 2,000 locations. Potbelly stores are both company- and franchise-owned. In 2021, Restaurant Brands International — which also owns Burger King, Popeyes and Tim Hortons bought Firehouse Subs for $1 billion. Two years later, the private equity firm Roark Capital snapped up Subway for nearly $10 billion.

Potbelly focused on a multiyear transformation plan coming out of the pandemic. The chain introduced new menu items, including a steak sandwich. It also increased its digital and delivery sales, redesigned stores and grew by attracting new franchisees RaceTrac was founded in 1934 and is family owned. The Atlanta company operates more than 800 locations in 14 states.

RaceTrac said it will acquire all of Potbelly’s shares for $17.12 each in cash. The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter

U.S.

BY STAN CHOE Associated Press

NEW YORK Wall Street inched to more records on Wednesday following a surprisingly encouraging report on inflation and a stunning forecast for growth from Oracle because of the artificial-intelligence boom.

The S&P 500 rose 0.3% and set an all-time high for a second straight day The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 220 points, or 0.5%, and the Nasdaq composite edged up by less than 0.1% after both likewise set records the day before.

Stocks have hit records in large part because Wall Street is expecting the economy to pull off a delicate balancing act: slowing enough to convince the Federal Reserve to

cut interest rates, but not so much that it causes a recession, all while inflation remains under control

The Labor Department reported Wednesday that its producer price index which captures inflation in the supply chain before it hits consumers — showed that wholesale inflation decelerated in August after advancing 0.7% in July. Wholesale services prices fell 0.2% from July on smaller profit margins at retailers and wholesalers, which might be a sign that those companies are absorbing the cost of President Donald Trump’s sweeping taxes — tariffs — on imports.

Compared with a year earlier, producer prices rose 2.6%.

Excluding volatile food and energy prices, so-called core producer prices also fell 0.1% from July and were up 2.8% from a year earlier.

A potentially more important report is coming Thursday, which will show how bad inflation has been for U.S. households, but Wednesday’s update “essentially rolled out the red carpet for a Fed rate cut next week,” according to Chris Larkin, managing director, trading and investing, at E-Trade from Morgan Stanley Traders were already convinced the Fed will deliver its first cut to interest rates of the year at its next meeting, but they need inflation data until then to be mild enough not to derail those expectations. That’s because cuts to interest rates can push inflation higher, along with giving the economy a kickstart, and hot inflation readings could tie the Fed’s hands. On Wall Street, tech stocks led the way after Oracle said AI-related

demand is set to send its revenue surging. CEO Safra Catz said Oracle signed four multi-billion dollar contracts during its latest quarter, and it expects cloud infrastructure revenue to jump 77% to $18 billion this fiscal year After that, it expects such revenue to soar to $144 billion in just four years. Oracle stock leaped 35.9% for its best day since 1992, even though it also reported results for the latest quarter that came up just

Drug advertising crackdown faces hurdles

Pushback expected over Trump’s directive

BY MATTHEW PERRONE Associated Press

WASHINGTON Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr and other administration of-

ficials are vowing a crackdown on deceptive drug ads, but the effort is likely to face multiple headwinds, including pushback from industry and layoffs among regulators tasked with leading the effort.

President Donald Trump signed a memo Tuesday that directs the Food and Drug Administration and other agencies to step up enforcement against ubiquitous prescription drug ads on TV, websites and social media.

The industry’s multibillion-dollar marketing efforts have long been a target for Kennedy, who previously suggested banning all pharmaceutical ads from TV That step would have almost certainly been struck down by federal judges, who have long accepted advertising as a First Amendmentprotected form of speech.

Instead, Trump’s directive tells the FDA to use current laws to ensure “transparency and accuracy” in all ads.

But the FDA has long struggled to defend its actions against drug promotions in court And reworking some of its key regulations — including those governing TV advertising — could take years.

More warnings after years of setbacks

The FDA kicked off its effort Tuesday evening saying it was issuing “thousands” of warnings to drugmakers over inaccurate or misleading ads.

But rather than individual notices citing specific violations, the FDA shared a generic letter that it sent to drugmakers, instructing them to bring “all promotional communications into compliance.”

The form letter is different from typical FDA warning letters, which usually cite specific issues with company advertisements that run afoul of FDA rules and lay the groundwork for future legal action.

The FDA’s press release noted that such warnings have fallen dramatically in recent years, with only one issued in 2023 and none in 2024.

Former FDA officials say that reflects two trends. First, the drug industry has abandoned many of the most egregious tactics deployed in the early 2000s, including the use of distracting sounds and visuals that often drew attention away from drug warn-

ings and side effect information.

Additionally the FDA has repeatedly settled legal cases challenging its authority to police drug promotions. The agency often declines to pursue such cases due to the risks of losing in court, which could create legal precedent eroding its power

Looking ahead, recent Trump administration job cuts have slashed staffing in the FDA’s drug advertising division, which handles warning letters.

Plan to curb TV ads could take time

One major proposal by the administration involves reversing a nearly 30-year-old FDA rule. Until the late 1990s, TV drug advertisements were impractical and prohibitively expensive because FDA regulations required drugmakers to list each medication’s risks and side effects.

A 1997 shift allowed companies to briefly summarize that information and point viewers to more complete information on websites, in print ads or elsewhere The FDA said this week it will begin the process to eliminate that practice, calling it a “loophole” used to “conceal critical safety risks.”

But the FDA rulemaking process usually takes years — sometimes more than a decade — with multiple opportunities for public comment and revision.

For example, new guidelines finalized last

year that require clearer and simpler language in drug ads took more than 15 years to develop and implement.

For its part, the industry maintains that TV ads are a way to educate and empower consumers.

“Truthful and nonmisleading DTC advertising is protected under the First Amendment and has documented evidence of advancing patient awareness and engagement,” PhRMA, the industry’s leading trade group, said in a statement Wednesday

Promoters may be beyond FDA’s reach FDA Commissioner Marty Makary also suggested his agency will be more aggressive about policing ads on social media platforms like Instagram, where drugmakers often partner with patient influencers or doctors.

The agency has long struggled to oversee those promotions, because FDA advertising rules only apply to drug companies.

Social media influencers who are paid to endorse or promote products are supposed to clearly disclose that relationship. But that requirement is overseen by the Federal Trade Commission.

And in some cases, influencers aren’t being paid by anyone: They promote products in hopes of landing future endorsement deals.

BY MICHAEL LIEDTKE AP technology writer

Amazon’s Zoox on Wednesday launched its robotaxi service in Las Vegas, offering free rides through parts of the entertainment mecca for anyone willing to gamble on the safety of a driverless vehicle that operates without a steering wheel.

The Las Vegas debut of Zoox’s long-planned ride-hailing service reflects Amazon-owned robotaxi maker’s confidence in the safety of its boxy vehicles after two years of testing them in the city

The robotaxis initially were only available to employees in Las Vegas before gradually expanding to friends and family members. Now, anyone with the Zoox app will be able to request a ride to five designated locations, including Resorts World, the Luxor hotel and the New York-New York hotel. The longest

distance the Zoox robotaxis will travel is about three miles while carrying up to four passengers. All rides will be provided for free for at least the first few months to help promote the existence of the service in the perennially popular travel destination. Once it begins charging for rides in Las Vegas, Zoox says its prices will be comparable to traditional taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft. Amazon, currently worth $2.5 trillion, bought Zoox for $1.2 billion five years ago as part of its efforts to establish a foothold in other fields of technology

The Las Vegas market marks Zoox’s first step in its attempt to catch up with robotaxi leader Waymo, a Google spinoff that offers that already provides driverless rides in the San Francisco Bay Area, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Atlanta and Austin, Texas (where

Tesla is still in the testing phase of a robotaxi service that its CEO, Elon Musk, has been hyping for the past decade). While Waymo implants its driverless technology in vehicles built by traditional automakers, Zoox is manufacturing its distinctively designed robotaxis

The new agreement will end a negotiation that began shortly after Landry took office in January 2024. Saints officials negotiated a similar lease extension with officials from the administration of Gov John Bel Edwards but didn’t reach a long-term agreement before his term ended.

“We remain optimistic that a final agreement will be reached soon and look forward to announcing it at the appropriate time,”

Greg Bensel, a spokesperson for the Saints, said in a text. “Until then, negotiations with the State remain ongoing, and it would be premature to comment on specific deal points.”

Superdome Commission officials also declined to comment on the deal talks.

Shane Guidry, a businessman who is a close adviser to Landry, declined to comment on specifics but said agreement on lease terms is near “We’re at the finish line,” he said. “We want to get it done for the Saints, the taxpayers, the state of Louisiana, the NFL, everybody.”

A closely watched deal

The Superdome lease is always closely watched by business and civic leaders, but for Saints fans the real question is what it means for the team’s long-term future in New Orleans.

This round of talks carries added weight: Because the lease could run through 2055, it will likely be in place past Gayle Benson’s lifetime — the trigger for an NFL rule that will require the team to be sold to a new owner Landry’s negotiating team has sought to bolster the state’s legal position in keeping the Saints here for the foreseeable future, the sources said.

Benson has vowed to keep the team in New Orleans while she is the owner And in a series of 2021 interviews to discuss the Saints succession plans, Dennis Lauscha, the Saints’ president and the executor of the Benson estate, committed to keeping the Saints in New Orleans. He has also said the terms of this lease negotiation would be crucial to keeping a future owner here. But it remains unclear whether the new deal will have strong enough language to prevent the team from being

CANTRELL

Continued from page 1A

Just an hour earlier, she walked into the Hale Boggs Federal Building surrounded by several security guards, her attorney and the administration’s communications director, Terry Davis. Neither Cantrell nor Davis took questions from reporters before the proceedings. Afterward, Cantrell exited the building through a side door on Camp Street and entered a vehicle as Davis again rebuffed a reporter’s questions.

Cantrell’s lawyer, Eddie Castaing, declined to comment

The mayor’s plea marked a longanticipated outcome of a sweeping criminal probe of her affairs tracing at least to 2022. Legal and political observers have predicted that the mayor, a onetime community organizer known for taking fiery stands against her foes, would fight any charges that resulted from that investigation.

Roby set Cantrell’s trial for Nov 17. A pretrial court appearance is scheduled for Oct. 13.

The mayor will remain free while she awaits trial as long as she complies with check-ins by federal probation officers, hands over her passport and does not obtain new travel documents, Roby said. Her travel is restricted to the U.S., and she must receive court approval to exit the country

Cantrell’s frequent trips to conferences and forums outside New Orleans had fueled criticism during her second term, even before several of those trips became the bedrock of the criminal case against her The mayor is also barred from contacting Vappie without a judge’s approval. She must report any contact she has with law enforcement to probation officers.

Cantrell, who is term-limited and set to leave office in January, returned to work following her indictment last month She has not directly acknowledged the charges in public and her office has repeatedly declined to comment on the case.

The contents of the indictment represent a relatively narrow prong of the yearslong federal investigation into Cantrell’s ac-

moved by the team’s next owner beyond those 10 years.

Lauscha has been the lead negotiator for the Saints, facing off with Rob Vosbein appointed by Landry to serve as the Superdome Commission’s chair Vosbein is a private attorney for Guidry. Also negotiating for the state has been Shawn Bridgewater-Normand, a lawyer and the wife of radio host Newell Normand

The Superdome Commission is expected to formally approve the deal, which will replace the current agreement that consists of a 15-year lease followed by a fiveyear extension that ends in 2030.

Aim to avoid relocation

The price of professional sports teams has risen dramatically in recent years, making ownership the domain of multibillionaires.

Forbes valued the Saints at $5.3 billion in its annual analysis of NFL franchises, a 20% increase from a year ago.

Lawyers and executives with experience in stadium lease negotiations in other NFL markets said that any lease deal would likely require ironclad legal terms and financial penalties after 10 years to make it difficult for a future owner to move the Saints.

The new lease would require a new owner who moves the team to pay state taxpayers as much as $250 million to cover most of the $300 million that the state owes in bonds for the recent Superdome renovation, said the people close to the negotiations. That penalty steps down sharply after the first 10 years.

Marc Poloncarz, who has negotiated two lease extensions with the Buffalo Bills as the Erie County executive, said a more important question is whether the new lease includes language that would allow the state to go to court in New Orleans to prevent a new owner from moving the team.

“Unless there’s some clause that allows the community and the state to keep the team there, they could be gone after 10 years,” Poloncarz said In 2021, Benson said her instructions to Lauscha are clear when it comes to new ownership.

“That’s going to be one of our stipulations when we sell the team — that it stays here,” said Benson at the time. “Dennis won’t sell it to another person that wants to take it away.” While negotiators aren’t yet publicly outlining the terms of the new lease, two recent stadium deals offer some comparative terms.

In 2023, the Buffalo Bills signed a 30-year lease with language that

discourages a new owner from moving the team. A year later, the Jacksonville Jaguars also signed a 30-year deal with similar terms.

Nellie Drew a professor at the University at Buffalo School of Law who has studied the leases of the Bills and other teams, said cities and states often seek clauses in the leases that would make it harder for teams to relocate.

One defense is a legal term known as “equitable relief,” which allows the government to file suit to block the team from leaving. The Bills agreed to allow this type of lawsuit in the lease and to have the lawsuit be heard in a local or federal court in the Buffalo area.

“There is no way any judge in western New York is going to let the Bills walk,” Drew said.

If a judge did allow the team to leave, the lease requires the Bills to pay back taxpayers the full $850 million they spent to build a new stadium if the departure takes place within the first 14 years of the lease signing. In future years, the amount the new owner would have to pay taxpayers would drop by 6.25% per year By year 30, that amount would reach zero.

In the Saints’ case, taxpayers spent about $380 million to pay for the most recent renovation of the Superdome, while the Saints ponied up an additional $180 million.

The financial penalty in the new lease of up to $250 million for relocating the Saints would probably not be a deterrent for a new owner given the vast sums required now to purchase a team, industry experts said. But it’s a significant change from the current lease, which did not have a similar financial penalty.

That lease took effect in 2010. The deal included an $85 million stadium upgrade that gave the Saints more ways to make money off games in the Superdome while capping direct subsidies to the team at $6 million a year. It also transferred naming rights at the stadium to the team, which the Saints have since sold to Mercedes-Benz and Caesars for millions of dollars annually

In lieu of constructing a new stadium, which can cost billions of dollars, the sides have continued to pour money into upgrading the Superdome, which opened in 1975 and is the fifth oldest stadium in the NFL. The state completed a $560 million renovation of the facility in 2024, in time to host Super Bowl LIX this year It was the stadium’s eighth Super Bowl, the most of any venue in NFL history

Email Jeff Duncan at jduncan@ theadvocate.com.

tions. FBI agents and prosecutors at turns focused on her campaign spending, as well as bribes she allegedly accepted from a private electrical inspector, Randy Farrell.

Farrell was indicted last year in connection with allegedly funneling game tickets, a meal and an iPhone to Cantrell through an associate in a bid to persuade her to fire a high-ranking city permitting official. He pleaded not guilty and is headed to trial. Cantrell has not been charged in that scheme.

Signs that Cantrell’s alleged relationship with Vappie might expose the mayor to criminal charges crystallized last summer in an eight-count indictment of the now-retired New Orleans Police Department veteran, accusing him of wire fraud and false statements.

It took prosecutors more than a year to charge the mayor via a superseding indictment they secured as part of their ongoing prosecution of Vappie.

As she launches her battle against the federal charges, veterans of the trial bar predict Cantrell has room to successfully argue her innocence before a jury Jurors might be sympathetic to the idea that two public figures would lie to conceal an illicit affair, said Walter Becker, a veteran defense attorney and former federal prosecutor “I think the defense has some maneuvering room when it

ACTIVIST

Continued from page 1A

cut across the ideological spectrum. The assassination drew bipartisan condemnation but a national reckoning over ways to prevent political grievances from manifesting as deadly violence seemed elusive. Videos posted to social media from Utah Valley University show Kirk speaking into a handheld microphone while sitting under a white tent emblazoned with the slogans “The American Comeback” and “Prove Me Wrong.”

A single shot rings out and Kirk can be seen reaching up with his right hand as a large volume of blood gushes from the left side of his neck. Stunned spectators are heard gasping and screaming before people start to run away The Associated Press was able to confirm the videos were taken at Sorensen Center courtyard on the Utah Valley University campus. Kirk was speaking at a debate hosted by his nonprofit political

organization. Immediately before the shooting, Kirk was taking questions from an audience member about mass shootings and gun violence.

“Do you know how many transgender Americans have been mass shooters over the last 10 years?” the person asked. Kirk responded, “Too many.”

The questioner followed up:

“Do you know how many mass shooters there have been in America over the last 10 years?”

“Counting or not counting gang violence?” Kirk asked.

Then a single shot rang out. The shooter, who Cox pledged would be held accountable in a state with the death penalty, wore dark clothing and fired from a roof on campus some distance away

The death was announced on social media by Trump, who praised the 31-year-old Kirk, the co-founder and CEO of the youth organization Turning Point USA, as “Great, and even Legendary.”

“No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie,” Trump posted on his Truth Social account.

VACCINE

Continued from page 1A

Shortly after becoming governor Landry signed a law banning state officials from promoting use of the COVID vaccine.

“True conservatives should empower patients,” Cassidy said Wednesday in reply to Landry’s social media post. “Big government liberals make it harder for them to take action. Get big government out of a patient’s life.”

Cassidy is a physician and strong supporter of vaccinations for 30 years before being elected to Congress. He has questioned some of the vaccination policy stances Kennedy has taken.

In speaking to Louisiana reporters over the phone Tuesday, Cassidy noted that the state surgeon general had written a blanket prescription for Narcan, the brand name for naloxone, which is used to stop an opioid overdose.

“We can have a debate back and forth about the COVID vaccine,” Cassidy said.

“We’re inconveniencing patients. We’re driving up the cost for a patient. I’m a doctor I want to make it as least expensive and as easy for the patient to get. So, if there’s a blanket prescription written out of state government to every pharmacy then why not do that?”

cans during a hearing last week asking Kennedy sharp questions about the government’s new vaccination policies.

Kennedy answered critics at a Senate Finance Committee by calling the senators liars and accusing them of being in the pockets of pharmaceutical companies.

A conservative Republican, Landry has made hostile comments to and about Cassidy before.

Cassidy is running for a third six-year term in 2026 and faces opposition from Louisiana Republicans who are still angry about his vote to convict President Donald Trump in 2021 of impeachment charges stemming from the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol by MAGA supporters seeking to disrupt certification that Joe Biden had won the 2020 presidential election.

Landry reportedly has spoken to U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow, RBaton Rouge, about challenging Cassidy She said recently that she is more interested in representing the 5th Congressional District.

But Cassidy has drawn three conservative opponents, including state Treasurer John Fleming, R-Minden; state Sen. Blake Miguez, R-New Iberia; and Public Service Commissioner Eric Skrmetta, R-Metairie

comes to the main conspiracy charge,” he said. “I’m not saying it’s a locked-in win for them. I’m just saying there’s some room to argue it.”

Lying to a federal grand jury, Becker said, is more “cut and dry” and could prove more damning for the mayor

Vappie and Cantrell were set to appear in court together on Wednesday (Vappie, too, faces additional counts under the new indictment.) But a judge earlier this week granted a request by his attorneys to delay his arraignment until Friday Court documents filed by his lawyers do not provide a reason.

Vappie’s attorneys have declined to comment on the new charges. He pleaded not guilty last summer to the wire fraud and false statement counts secured in prosecutors’ initial indictment. Cantrell’s court appearance marked the first time a New Orleans mayor has had to answer for criminal charges while in office.

Former Mayor Ray Nagin, the Katrina-era leader who faced corruption charges stemming from allegations that he traded official favors for cash and gifts from city vendors, was tried and convicted after leaving office

James Finn covers politics for The Times-Picayune | Nola.com. Email him at jfinn@theadvocate. com or contact him on Signal at jamesfinn.82.

He pointed out that the COVID vaccine was tested and approved by the Food and Drug Administration. The vaccine also has been the target of much skepticism by the far right.

Abraham and the Louisiana Department of Health did not respond Wednesday to a request for comment.

More than any other senator, Cassidy is responsible for Kennedy, a well-known vaccine skeptic, winning confirmation as secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services Kennedy promised to involve the Senate Health Education Labor and Pensions committee, which Cassidy chairs, in decisions he makes. Since then, Kennedy has laid off thousands of agency employees, proposed cutting the agency’s budget, pulled funding for further vaccination research using its most promising platform, forced a civilian panel that advises the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on vaccine policy to resign, and fired the director of the CDC less than a month after she was confirmed. Democrats and health associations have called for Kennedy’s resignation.

Cassidy won’t go that far, saying he needs to investigate further But he and Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso R-Wyo. and also a doctor, led Republi-

Cassidy’s team has argued he is in a strong position to win, pointing to strong fundraising numbers. He has raised $9.2 million for the campaign, according to filings with the Federal Election Commission. They have also rolled out endorsements, including those of Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Sen. Tim Scott, chair of the Republican Senatorial Committee, which is the primary fundraising arm to help GOP Senate campaigns. Miguez has raised $1.8 million. Skrmetta and Fleming are wealthy enough to fund their campaigns out of pocket. Fleming, for instance, has raised $384,618 but has spent well over $2 million already and still has more than $2 million in reserves, according to the FEC Skrmetta hasn’t been in the contest long enough to file with the FEC.

Many political observers see Cassidy in a precarious position.

“If, eight months before primary election day, an incumbent U.S. senator has several credible opponents, no endorsements from the president and governor of his own party, and no poll showing him trouncing those opponents in a runoff, he’s in deep trouble,” Bob Mann, a former LSU professor and former staffer to U.S. Sen. Russell Long and Gov Kathleen Blanco, wrote in his blog Wednesday Email Mark Ballard at mballard@theadvocate.com.

STAFF PHOTO By BRETT DUKE

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg, left, and Nicholas Moses, center, leave the Hale Boggs Federal Building on Wednesday.

Benson

THE DESERET NEWS PHOTO By TESS CROWLEy

The crowd reacts Wednesday after Charlie Kirk, the CEO and cofounder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, is shot at Utah Valley University

continued from teaching, he had alongcareer as achemical engineer and biostatistician for pharmaceutical companies in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was aproud memberof CommunityBible Church. He lovedhistory,tennis, chess, and reading. He was preceded in death by his wife,Nora Ray, the mother of David,Robert, and Steven; his wife of 32 years, JoAnn Planchard; son,Robert Planchard; parents, Jerome Adrian Planchard,Sr.,and Clara McFaull Planchard; daughter-in-law, Margot Planchard;and sister-inlaw, Nancy Planchard. He is survivedbyhis children, DavidPlanchard (Lori) of Baton Rouge,LAand Steven Planchard of New York,NY; grandchildren, NatalieMiller (Ryan), Dr. Kyle Planchard (Blaire), Sean Planchard,Dr. Ry Planchard,and Kipp Planchard;great-grandchildren,Nathanial Miller, Gabriel Miller, Hannah Beth Miller, Elisha Miller, Charlotte Planchard, Grace Planchard,and Ellie Planchard;his brother, Dr. Thomas Planchard (Irene) of Shreveport,LA; his wife of 10 years, Geralyn Umbaugh, and herdaughter, Sheri. Visitationwill be held at Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817Jefferson Hwy. Baton Rouge, LA 70816, on Saturday, September 13, 2025, from 9:00 a.m. until Funeral Serviceat11:00a.m. Interment willfollow at Resthaven Gardens of Memory. The Family would like to give special thanks to the staffofLake SherwoodVillage, AudubonHealthcare Services, and Audubon Hospice.Familyand friends may signthe online guestbook or leave apersonalnotetothe family at www.resthavenbatonroug e.com.

Norman began his life in aFrench-speaking world, working in the fields, canning, fishing,and oystering. He learned English when he went to school, and improved it in the CCC Camp and the Marine Corps. After his honorable discharge in 1943, he served the war effort by installing Plexiglas domes in aircraft at the New Orleans Lakefront Airport, and by welding at Kaiser Shipbuilding, in Vancouver Washington and at the San Francisco Naval Shipyard. He was atrapper when he married Alsace (Alice) Mary Pitre on December 15, 1946. They were married for 47 years, and had2 children, Karen Dale Potter (Frederick C. Auzston) and Norman Anthony Jr. He is survived by his Sister Rose Lee, his son Tony (Barbara AnnChabert then Catherine Mobley), grandson, John Plaisance (Nicole), great-grandchildren (children of John and Doddie Plaisance)- Harley (Louis Bourg), Caleb (Amie) Plaisance, Justin (Kayla) Plaisance, Alexis (Andrew Siefker)- and grandson Anthony Plaisance (Pavadee) and great-grandson Luke Plaisance. He also has great-great-grandchildren, Olivia, Liam and Owen Bourg, andElijah Plaisance,aswell as many beloved nieces and nephews on the Pitre and Plaisance sides. He lived for 72 years in his house on LA Hwy 1in Galliano, ahouse he had builtwith his brothers and 5tools, until he lost it in HurricaneIda. He was an avid gardener and beekeeper, and fed his extended family. He used his garden tractor to pull MardiGras floats too. In Galliano he was amember of the American Legion, The Holy Name Society at St.Joseph, the Knights of Columbus, the Little Flower of Theresa, the Green Head Club, and the Civil Air Patrol at Alvin Callender field, BelleChase. Norman worked for Hughes Equipment, and also 12 years for Schlumberger. Over the years, he worked as a roughneck, acrew boat captain, and in maintenance and construction. At Schlumberger, he was the only known survivor of a supergun explosion. He also operated agas station and auto repair shop in Galliano. In 1974 he built his 54-foot cypress trawler, theMr. Norman, in his front yard, and became a shrimp boat captainfor 25 years. During his life in New Orleans, he participatedin many commemoratory events at the National WWII Museum, and in activities at Union Française such as Cajun Jams and Culinary Classes.Hewas a memberofCauseries du Lundi de la Nouvelle Orléans. He spoke French, Patois, and English. He enjoyed parties, casinos (where he hoped to meet people from all over the world), the International Workboat Show, and being with family and friends (especially Ervin Bourg). Hisdream was to return to his home in Galliano and have allhis nieces, nephews and friends drop in. Hisformula for happiness in his very old age was to pray, keep a smile on his face and take "one day at atime." Every nighthesaid "Bonsoir et à demain, si BonDieu le veut." He also looked forward to seeing Mama again, and Dieu decidedit was time for that.

Aviewing (wake) will be held from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on 2025-09-15at Falgout, 17330 West Main Street. Avisitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM on 2025-09-16atSt. Joseph Church, 17980 W Main St. 70354.A massof christian burial will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on 2025-09-16 at St. Joseph Church, 17980 WMain St, Galliano, LA 70354.A burial will be held at 11:00 AM on 2025-09-16 at Cheramie Cemetery, LA Hwy 308.

Dr.

Dr. Jerome Adrian Planchard, Jr, anative of New Orleans and aresident of Baton Rouge,LA, passed away on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at the age of 88. After receiving his PhD from Tulane University in Chemical Engineering, he worked as aprofessor of chemical engineering at LSU. After

NathanielLee. Belovedfa‐therofRobert, Samantha and RobinRodriguez.De‐voted brotherofSamantha Rodriguez,SherlitaRo‐driguez Wright (Kevin), and EdnaRodriguez Jones (Travis). Doting uncle of Samaya, Samyra Harness, Sequoia,Ace,Ayden Ro‐driguez,and Travis Jones, Jr. Loving grandson of MeritaRodriguez.Adoring nephewofGailBaker, Mary, Cynthiaand Ugean Rodriguez.Robertwas also survivedbya host of cousins,extendedfamily and friends. He waspre‐ceded in deathbyhis grandfather Lawrence Ro‐driguez;and hisaunt and unclesKimberly, Timothy, Randolph, Charlesand LawrenceRodriguez.Rela‐tives andfriends of the familyare invitedtoattend the CelebrationofLifeSer‐viceonSaturday, Septem‐ber 13, 2025 at St.Roch Community Church,1738 St. Roch Street,New Or‐leans,LA70117 at 10:00 a.m.Visitationfrom9:00 a.m.until 10:00 a.m. Rev. James Smart, Officiating. IntermentRestlawnPark Cemetery, 3540 US-90, Avondale, LA 70094. You may sign theguest book onhttp://www.gertrud egedddeswillis.com. Gertrude GeddesWillisFu‐neral Home Inc.,incharge (504) 522-2525.

Tyrone MichaelRalph Sr.,age 78, passed into glory on Thursday,Sep‐tember4,2025. Born on Oc‐tober 22, 1946, to thelate Augustand AureliaRalph, Mr. Ralph, wasa proud graduateofG.W.Carver HighSchoolsClass of 1965 Tyroneworkedinthe New Orleans hospitalityindus‐try formanyyears,coownedR&R Enterprise and retired from Lockheed Mar‐tin’s NewOrleans facility asa CompositeTechnician. In addition to hisparents, He is also preceded in death by hisbeloved daughter, Angela Bernal; brothers, Raymondand Reynold;sister-in-law,Ber‐nice Glover anddevoted friend, Eric James. Sur‐vivorsinclude hisson,Ty‐roneM.Ralph,Jr. (Donya); grandchildren,Brigette (Drel), Briana andDean Bernal, Jr.(Codi); greatgrandson, Paxton Bernal; sister-in-law,ElaineRalph; Goddaughter andniece, MercedesMarioneaux (Ralph);and ahostof nephews,nieces, relatives, and friends. Thosewho loved himare welcometo gather, sharememories and celebratethe lasting imprint he leaves behind.A MassofChristian burial honoringthe life and legacyofthe late Tyrone Michael Ralph, Sr will be heldatSt. Leothe Great Catholic Church,2916 Paris Avenue, New Orleans, LA onSaturday, September13, 2025 at 10 am.Interment Mount Olivet Cemetery, 4000 NormanMayer Av‐enue,New Orleans, LA Visi‐tation9 am in thechurch Pleasesignonlineguest‐book at www.charbonnetf uneralhome.com. Charbon‐net LabatGlapion,Direc‐tors(504)581 4411.

Robert "Rob" Rodriguez, age 43,was born on Sep‐tember15, 1981. He en‐tered eternalrest on Mon‐day,August25, 2025. He was educated in theOr‐leans Parish School Sys‐tem.Robertwas theloving sonofRitaRodriguez and

in NewOrleans.Pallbear‐ers will be BrianRoy,Scott Roy,Gerry Roy, PatSmith, Pat Bowesand Felix Garcia Intermentwillbeheldata later date in St.Mary’sof False RiverCemeteryin New Roads. Thefamilyre‐questsinlieuof flowers, donations aremadeto HolySpiritChurch,5201 Stratford Place, NewOr‐leans,LA70131. MotheFu‐neral Homes, LLCare in chargeofthe arrange‐ments

“WelldoneMygood and faithfulservant.Since you werefaithfulinsmall mat‐ters, Iwillgiveyou great responsibilities. Come and share your master’s joy. Matthew 25:23 On August 28, 1929 Godgavethis world apreciousgiftwith the birthofReverendMon‐signorAllen Royand on September 5, 2025 God calledhim home at theage of96. Msgr.Roy wasthe firstoffoursonsbornto Allen J. Roy, Sr.and Lucille Plauche RoyofHamburg, LAinAvoyellesparish. As a young child hisfamily moved to andsettled in New Roads, LA.Heat‐tendedSt. Joseph Acad‐emy in NewRoads where his faith wasformedand his callingtobea Roman Catholic priest began. He attendedSt. Joseph Semi‐naryCollege in St.Bene‐dict, LA andNotre Dame seminaryinNew Orleans and wasordainedtothe priesthood on June 5, 1954 atSt. LouisCathedral.He servedasAssistantPastor atOur Lady Star of theSea Church in NewOrleans Our Lady of theRosary Church in NewOrleans and Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Violet,LAwhere healsoservedaspastor. Duringhis assignment there he organizedand providedrelieffor thevic‐timsofhurricane Betsy. Msgr. Roywas also as‐signedpastoratesatSt. JosephChurch in Chauvin, LAand wasthe founding pastorofHolySpirit Church in NewOrleans.In additiontohis pastoral as‐signments,heservedas chaplainofthe 159thEvac‐uationHospital, Assistant DirectorofCommunica‐tions,Board of Regents, ArchdiocesanConsultor Deanofthe Terrebonne Deanery andAlgiers Plaquemines Deaneryand was an Ecclesiastical No‐taryinthe MatrimonialTri‐bunal. In Mayof1970 he re‐ceiveda Master of Arts de‐greefromNotre Dame SeminaryCollege andin Julyof1976 aMasterofRe‐ligious Educationdegree fromNotre Dame Seminary School of Theology.Msgr. Roy retiredin2011 andwas a resident of OurLadyof Wisdom Health Care Cen‐ter at thetimeofhis death. Hewas asimpleman anda truedowntoearth “people person” touching and changingmanylives dur‐ing hiscalling.Msgr. Roy leavesbehindtocherish his memory hisbrothers, Kearn Royand PatRoy and his sistersinlaw,Adley Roy andJeanieRoy allfrom New Roadsaswellasnu‐merousniecesand nephews andthe many ac‐quaintances who blessed his life.Along with hispar‐ents, he is preceded in death by hisbrother,Jerry Roy;sisterinlaw Jeanette Roy;nephewand godson, Gerard“Bug” Roy; and niece,Christy Roy. Visita‐tionwillbeheldonFriday, September 12, 2025 at Holy SpiritChurch,5201 Strat‐fordPlace,New Orleans from6:00to10:00 p.m. and onSaturday, September13, 2025 from 9:00 to 11a.m withfuneral mass to be celebratedat11:00 a.m. also at Holy Spirit Church

Norris Dale Simmons, Sr passedawayonTuesday, September 9, 2025. He was borninJennings, LA on January 22, 1937. He is sur‐vived by hischildren, Rox‐anne SimmonsWilliams, NorrisDaleSimmons,Jr., Merry SimmonsHulme and Shannon Simmons Williams;grandchildren Matthew Williams,Alexan‐dra Brocato, Taylor Motter AndrewMotter, Campbell Motter, Ryan Motter,Calis‐ter Simmons, Kensey Williams,KiraWilliamsand CallenWilliams; andfour great-grandchildren.He was preceded in deathby his wife,GailMcKinnon Simmons;his parentsElsie MaryVincent Simmons and Jerry TillmanSim‐mons; andbrother,Vincent Jerry Simmons. Mr.Sim‐monswas alifetimeedu‐cator beginninghis career atN.P.Trist Middle School and many yearsand retir‐ing at BayouLacombe Mid‐dle School.Hewillbe missedbyall who knew and lovedhim.Inlieuof flowers, contributionsin memoryofMr. Simmons may be made to theGary SineseFoundationwww garysinisefoundation.org. Relativesand friendsare invited to attend thefu‐neral services at E. J. Field‐ing FuneralHome, 2260 W. 21st Avenue,Covington LA 70433 with visitation on Fri‐day,September 12, 2025 beginning at 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. followed by a gravesideservice in Pinecrest Memorial Gar‐dens. E.J. Fielding Funeral Homehas been entrusted withfuneral arrangements The Simmonsfamilyin‐vites youtoshare thoughts, fondestmemo‐ries, andcondolences on‐lineatE.J.FieldingFuneral HomeGuest Book at www ejfieldingfh.com

CamilleSmith,departed thislifeonSaturday, Au‐gust30, 2025 at theage of 55. BelovedSon of thelate Loretta Smithand Camille Morris; BrotherofRogers, Marvinand Rodney Smith and Lolita Smith. Also sur‐vived by hispartner Bran‐don Kelley,hostofnieces, nephews,other relatives and friends. Relativesand friends of thefamily, also pastors,officers andmem‐bersofBlessedHopeBap‐tistChurch areinvited to attendthe FuneralService atD.W.RhodesFuneral Home, 3933 Washington Ave NewOrleans,LAon Saturday, September13, 2025 at 10:00am;Visitation willbegin at 9:00am Pleasejoinusby livestreamat9:50amby visitingwww.facebook com/D.W.RhodesFuneralHo me/live.Interment:Provi‐dence Memorial Park Cemetery, Metairie,LA. Pleasevisit https://pre miermemories.net/users/ MTczMTQxLUNhbWlsbGU gRS4g/home.htmltosign the online guestbook share memories andcon‐dolenceswiththe family. Arrangementsentrusted to D.W.RhodesFuneralHome, 3933 Washington Ave.,New Orleans,LA70125 (504)8227162 www.rhodesfuneral. com

JamesD.Thomas, Sr a residentofBaker,LAand retired employee of Exxon‐Mobil, transitioned on Sat‐urday,September 6, 2025 at age 78. Visitation will be heldSaturday, September 13, 2025 at Saintsville Church of GodinChrist, 8930 PlankRd.,Baton Rouge,LAfrom12PMuntil religious serviceat1 PM, conducted by Elder Leonard Powell. He leaves tocherish hismemories: his devotedwifeof52 years,Kay Thomas;one son,James "Don"Thomas, Jr.,two daughters, Keshia ThomasSanchez (Jose) and KatrinaMillican; three grandchildren,Amelia, Fredrickand Donovan; one sister, OdealThomas; his mother-in-love, Sedonia Anthony; five godchildren; ninesisters-in-law; nine brothers-in-law;and ahost ofother relativesand friends.Hewas preceded indeath by hisparents Leroy andLulia Mae Thomas; threebrothers and four sisters. He leaves behinda legacy of love and willbedeeply missed. In‐terment will be in Southern MemorialGardens,Baton Rouge,LA. Services en‐trusted to Richardson Fu‐neral Home of Jefferson, River Ridge, LA.www.ric hardsonfuneralhomeofjeff erson.com.

Minister Darren “Lump” Ursin departed this life on Sunday, September7,2025 atthe ageof43inKenner, LA. He is survived by his daughters;Aalysia D. Ursin & Aamori C. Ursin(Nadia Turner);Parents:CalvinSr. & ElizabethC.Ursin,his lovingsiblings; Calvin Ursin Jr., MelanieUrsin, Patrick Ursin, RonnieUrsin NicoleUrsin,CherylRus‐sell, andJoshua Clark. He isprecededindeath by his sister, Bernadette Ursin, and brother, MichaelUrsin; Grandparents; WilbertSr. and MableTaylorUrsin and Joseph &Lillian Cas‐nave. Darren is also sur‐vived by ahostrelatives and friends. Thefamilyin‐vites youtoattendthe homegoing celebration. VisitationHour, 10:00 AM –11:00 AM.Funeral Service, Friday, September12, 2025, 11:00 AM.Oakland Baptist Church,825 Reverend Richard Wilson Drive, Ken‐ner,Louisiana 70062. Inter‐ment: Providence St Mark’sSociety Cemetery 342 Providence Lane,River Ridge,LA70123. Richard‐son FuneralHomeofJeffer‐son,River Ridge, LA in chargeofarrangements. www.richardsonfuneralho meofjefferson.com

Wilson Sr., Kwame 'Shockk'

Kwame“Shockk” Wil‐son,Sr.,was born on Sep‐tember2,1982 in NewOr‐leans,LA. He wascalled homeonhis birthday,Sep‐tember2,2025. Beloved son of thelateMonicaAnn Wilson.Kwame leaves be‐hinda strong andenduring legacythrough hisson, Kwame Wilson,Jr.,Ronald and IeshaGreen;grandson, RonaldGreen,Jr. Also sur‐vived by hislovingpartner Yasmine Anderson; mother, Charlena Math‐ews;siblings, Shanga Mathews,Sr.,Azizi Math‐ews,Sr.,Harry Wilson,Sr. and MonishaWilson; un‐cles, Gary Wilson,Darren and DerekSmith,aswellas a host of nieces,nephews andfriends who will con‐

tinue to carry hismemory forward.Known as thepro‐tectorofhis family, Kwame was educated in theOr‐leans parish public school system, attendingHelen S. Edwards,Carverand Dou‐glass High Schools. His charm andcharismamade him abeloved figure in the vibrant NOLA hospitality industry, where he found joy andpurpose in serving others. Kwame’spresence touched many livesinthe 9th Ward,DesireProject and theDesire& Galvez areas.His spirit will con‐tinue to live on in the heartsofall who knew and loved him. AHomegoing celebration honoring the lifeand legacy of thelate Kwame “SHOCKK” Wilson, Sr.,willbeheldinthe ChapelofCharbonnet Labat GlapionFuneral Home, 1615 St.Philip Street,New Orleans, LA 70116 on Saturday,Sep‐tember13, 2025 at 10 am IntermentProvidence MemorialParkCemetery. Visitation9 am in the chapel. Please sign online guestbook at www.cha rbonnetfuneralhome.com. Charbonnet LabatGlapion, Directors (504)581 4411.

BryanHenry Wise,61, was alifelongresidentof New Orleans, Louisiana. Af‐fectionatelyknown as "Buttercup” he wasborn June 21, 1964, to thelate Lilly MaeWiseinNew Or‐leans,La. On Wednesday, September 3, 2025. Our beloved,brother,uncle cousin, nephew,friend, and co-workertransitioned tohis heavenly home to be withthe Lord surrounded byfamilyand friends. He enjoyed watching football and agood hand of spades. He also enjoyed friendlybanterwhile doing the things he lovedmost. Bryan wasa workaholic Heenjoyed familygather‐ingsjokinglybeing thelife ofthe party. He neverleft without expressing his love, especially forhis loved ones.Our grand‐motherlaidthe foundation byteachingustoprayand embrace faith earlyon. He attended FrancisT.Nicholls High. He wasanemployee atDominos SugarRefinery HealsoworkedatFoods for Families,New Orleans Country Club andR&L Car‐riers.Bryan waspreceded indeath by hismother, Lilly MayWise; hisgrand‐mother, AnnieLee Wise; his aunt,MattieSmith;and his cousins, Robert Smith Jr.,ReginaldSmith,Royce Wise,and Dawn Wise-Mar‐tin.Heissurvivedbyhis companion Sheila Lafrance,brothersDarrel and Carrol Wise,sisters DoreneCarter, Raquel Wright, andChandra Wise niecesJaylynn andKe‐ichandraWise, KiaConrad, and JamieWright, grand‐daughterAlnesha Green‐berry,stepfatherCarrol Hills,and many relatives, friends,and colleagues Bryan will be dearly missed. Relativesand friends of thefamilyare in‐vited to attend thefuneral service on Saturday,Sep‐tember13, 2025 at Gentilly Baptist Church locatedat 5141 Franklin Ave.,New Or‐leans LA.70122. Thevisita‐tionwillbegin at 10 a.m. followedbyan11a.m.ser‐vice. Rev. Derick Joshua willofficiate. Interment willbeprivate.A repass willfollowthe servicein the church’s fellowship hall. Funeralplanningen‐trusted to Robinson Family FuneralHome, 9611 LA-23, Belle Chasse LA 70037 (504) 208-2119. Foronlinecondo‐lences, please visitwww robinsonfamilyfuneralho me.com

Thomas Sr., JamesD

Simmons Sr., NorrisDale

Wise,Bryan Henry

Roy, Rev. Msgr.Allen J.

RalphSr.,TyroneMichael

Ursin, Minister Darren 'Lump'

Smith, Camille

Planchard,

Jerome A.

Rodriguez, Robert 'Rob'

Ex-N.O. official files suit against city

She claims Cantrell fired her in retaliation of complaint

BY JONI HESS Staff writer

A former New Orleans City Hall

official has sued the city in federal court, claiming she was fired after reporting payroll fraud and that Mayor LaToya Cantrell was “very annoyed” that she put her complaint in writing.

In the lawsuit filed Wednesday in U.S. Eastern District Court in New Orleans, Sunae Villavaso, the former director of the city’s Office of Workforce Development, claims she was wrongly fired in April, despite employee whistleblower protections embedded in state law

While employed with the city in January 2024, the suit says, Villavaso reported that another city official was ignoring federal protocol for the disbursement of pandemic

relief funds. Instead, that employee, then-city Administration and Planning Director Courtney Story, directed money to recipients she chose, Villavaso alleges.

Villavaso told Cantrell about that instance in person and later in an email, the suit alleges The employee was not fired, though the mayor initially said she would be, and she

eventually left City Hall for a topranking position at Undue Medical Debt — a nonprofit to which Story allegedly funneled money Story is listed on the company’s website as the vice president of government initiatives.

The suit says that after reporting the issue, Cantrell and her chief of staff were “very annoyed” that Villavaso put her complaint in writing.

“Mayor Cantrell remarked that Villavaso’s act of putting her complaints in writing meant that maybe Ms. Villavaso needs to find

her happiness elsewhere,’” the suit alleges.

The city must turn over written complaints, electronic emails, written reports and other city records to any resident who requests them, according to the state’s public records law Villavaso reported another instance in which a staffer employed in her office had falsely submitted time sheets for hours worked when they were instead completing an internship at another agency

ä See SUIT, page 2B

An Amazon employee walks inside the company’s new Amazon

‘It’s a great day in

Amazon’s $40M delivery center officially slinging out packages

BY WILLIE SWETT Staff writer

Just days after opening a new sameday delivery site in Jefferson Parish, Amazon officials gathered in Slidell on Wednesday to unveil a long-awaited $40 million facility that the company says will provide hundreds of jobs and continue the online retail giant’s expansion across Louisiana.

Officials from the city of Slidell and St. Tammany Parish toured the 140,000-square-foot building and praised it as an economic driver for the area.

“It’s a great day in Slidell,” said Slidell Mayor Bill Borchert

“What a great opportunity for our citizens,” echoed St. Tammany Parish President Mike Cooper “What an investment we are making here that’s going to prove beneficial to both the city and St. Tammany Parish.” Although the formal ribbon-cutting

Slidell’

was Wednesday, Amazon has been moving packages in and out of the Slidell center for a few weeks now

The Slidell building is one of Amazon’s “last mile” facilities, where

employees take items that have already been packaged, sort them and then put them in delivery vans The facility can

Firefighting firm files suit in Smitty’s explosion

At least 17 cases filed in wake of oil plant blaze

BY DAVID J MITCHELL Staff writer

Parish oil and lubricants plant, but now can’t get the company to pay its $6.16 million bill. US Fire Pump leveled the accusation in a lawsuit against Smitty’s Supply Inc., accusing it of refusing to pay for at least seven days of 24-hour firefighting services when the blaze at the Roseland plant was at its worst, Tangipahoa Parish court papers show It is among a raft of lawsuits filed against the plant in the wake of the explosion and fire, including one this week from a nearby cattle rancher alleging damage. US Fire Pump, which has an operation in Holden in nearby Livingston Parish, has also placed a lien on Smitty’s properties in Tangipahoa in an attempt to secure payment for the purportedly unpaid bill. A Smitty’s attorney says, however, that the bill was too high and under negotiation when the suit was filed by surprise. In the lawsuit, US Fire alleges Tangipahoa Parish fire officials and later one or more representatives of Smitty’s asked US Fire for help fighting the blaze. US Fire officials reached a deal with Smitty’s president less than an hour after the fire started at 12:50 p.m. Aug. 22.

Slidell council OKs $27.6M in bonds to purchase mall North Shore Square mostly shuttered

BY KIM CHATELAIN

Contributing writer

Against the backdrop of a boisterous crowd of opponents, the Slidell City Council narrowly adopted a resolution Tuesday supporting the issuance of $27.6 million in revenue bonds for the city to purchase the mostly shuttered North Shore Square Mall. The council’s 4-3 vote on the controversial issue followed a

heated public hearing during which opponents urged the city to pump the brakes on buying the 621,000-square-foot mall at Interstate 12 and Northshore Boulevard. Council members Trey Brownfield, Leslie Denham and David Dunham voted no. Most of those in the council chamber audience appeared opposed to the resolution, which marks the latest step in the city’s long discussed plan to buy and redevelop the mall site. While the exact use of the property is yet to be determined a public/private partnership has

been discussed. Even with the council’s approval, the state Bond Commission still must approve the issuance of any bonds. Speaking in favor of the resolution, council member Nick DiSanti said its passage does not mean that the city is committed to purchasing the mall; rather, it simply represents city’s efforts to “explore the possibility.”

Among the opponents to address the council was Police Chief Randy Fandal, who is a candidate for mayor in the Oct. 11 election. His lone oppo-

nent, Mayor Bill Borchert, has pushed for the mall purchase but did not speak on the issue during the meeting.

“What concerns me is there has been no transparency in this,” Fandal said. “No one I’ve talked to knows what the plan is.”

Slidell resident Louise Mace was more succinct. She said, “Why the big hurry to hurry up and develop North Shore Mall?”

Other opponents lamented the tax hike the mall’s purchase

BY LARA NICHOLSON Staff writer

STAFF PHOTOS By CHRIS GRANGER

delivery center in Slidell on Wednesday.

Slidell and St. Tammany Parish officials gather in front of a mural in a break room at the new Amazon delivery center in Slidell on Wednesday.

Villavaso

Sign marking Bourbon Street attack removed

But artifacts are preserved at Presbytère

BY DOUG MacCASH Staff writer

The sign on Bourbon Street marking the site of the New Year’s Day terrorist attack that claimed 14 lives is gone. All that’s left is a rectangular rough patch where the placard was glued to the wall of the Walgreens drugstore.

The sign disappeared without public notice last week, leaving some passersby to wonder what had happened to it. Was it removed to clean off graffiti, or to be replaced with something more permanent? The answer is neither

In the early hours of Jan. 1, an attacker raced a rented truck down Bourbon Street, randomly running down pedestrians in his path. After a few blocks, the driver struck a parked vehicle and subsequently died in a shootout with police.

In the aftermath of the massacre, a memorial display went up near

Bourbon and Canal streets as visitors to the notorious site expressed their grief. The unplanned array of wooden crosses, flowers, candles, photos, art and graffiti was a poignant outpouring, but eventually it had to be removed from the highly trafficked sidewalks.

When, on Feb 21, some of the memorial objects were moved to the Louisiana State Museum at the Presbytère on Jackson Square, a simple, rather generic sign appeared at the original location. State Museum director Rebecca Mackie said the sign was execut-

AMAZON

Continued from page 1B

process about 18,000 packages an hour and about 93,000 packages a day for delivery across the northshore, according to Demoy Dobson, Amazon’s site leader

Around 100 people are employed by Amazon at the facility and that number is expected to grow to 200, said Daniel Martin, a company spokesperson. The starting hourly wage at the delivery site is $18.50, according to the company In addition, Amazon contracts with about 100 people to work as delivery drivers for the facility They drop off packages in a 45mile radius around the facility, according to Jessica Breaux, a

MALL

Continued from page 1B

would trigger The money to cover any purchase would come from revenue generated by a special tax on purchases made inside the recently expanded Northshore Square Economic Development District. The district’s officers recently approved a 1% sales tax on purchases made at stores inside the district and a 2% tax hotel occupancy tax in the district. Those new taxes begin Oct. 1 and will run through September 2075.

Rick Franzo, a Slidell resident and president of the Concerned Citizens of St. Tammany group, urged the council to “slow the process down” while lamenting the 1% tax increase With the increase, the sales tax rate would be 10.63% inside that economic development district.

Internet comments that the increase would make Slidell’s sales

GRANTS

Continued from page 1B

year, the state legislative auditor found. But the cost still can be too high for some owners to bear The average roof cost for homeowners is still $10,528 on average, on top of the $10,000 grant, according to the state auditor

That’s why Jefferson Parish atlarge council member Jennifer Van Vrancken launched a parishwide supplement to the state program, in which the first 100 Jefferson Parish residents who receive the state grant will automatically qualify for up to an additional $5,000.

“People drop out of (the program) after getting the roof grant because they can’t afford the additional costs on top of the $10,000,” Van Vrancken said. “If we can bring some additional funding to the table that to me would be a success.” Eligible homes must be covered

senior manager of economic development at Amazon.

The Slidell site was first announced in 2021 and was initially slated to open in 2022, before being delayed several times.

“There are a variety of factors that go into deciding where we expand our operations facilities, including strong customer demand, support from state and local leaders, access to transportation corridors and a talented local workforce,” Martin said.

St Tammany Parish Council member Jimmy Strickland, whose district the new facility is in, said he is hopeful it would encourage future growth in the area and bolster the parish’s tax base.

Wednesday’s grand opening of the Slidell facility comes after Amazon officially opened a

tax the highest in the country have been debunked, but Franzo said the taxation issue is still relevant

“People are leaving because our taxes are crazy for what we get in return,” he said. “We need to think about that.”

Each of the eight speakers drew an ovation from the audience after expressing their opposition At times, the crowd shouted over comments by DiSanti, who chairs the council.

Brownfield complained that many questions about the mall’s purchase remain unanswered.

“I’m voting with the people tonight,” he said “This is rushed, and as far as I’m concerned, I’m out.”

DiSanti stressed that the resolution does not tie the city to the purchase. However, he said there is a time element involved because the mall’s owner, the Canadian company Morguard, is also in negotiations with another potential buyer

The other buyer is eyeing only a portion of the mall, which could lead to a “fragmentation” of the

by an active insurance policy with wind coverage, and homes in a FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Area must have flood insurance as well.

New construction homes, condominiums and mobile homes are ineligible

If selected, homeowners will have 30 days to verify their eligibility All homeowners who registered in the September 2024 or February 2025 lotteries will automatically be registered for this new round.

Funding for the program, called the Roof Enhancement Lottery Incentive Fund, was made available last June when the Jefferson Parish Council voted to divvy up $3.5 million from interest accrued on their discretionary spending accounts, which had amassed more than $84 million through the American Rescue Plan Act. Each council member received $500,000 to use as they please, which Van Vrancken elected to put toward homeowner assistance. Any of that money left over will be put toward the Jefferson Par-

ed in cooperation with the city and was mostly meant to direct mourners to the Presbytère — hence the map in the bottom right corner Coleman E. Adler of the venerable Adler’s jewelry store, is the owner of the building where the sign was posted. Mackie said that the sign was installed with the knowledge of Adler’s daughter, Tiffany Adler, who serves on the museum’s board of directors.

The placard was always meant to be a temporary, informational guidepost, Mackie said. Marred with graffiti, it was removed by

the museum and discarded last week. Via email, Mackie assured the public that though the sign may be gone, “the Louisiana State Museum is honored to have the artifacts from the mourners of the fateful attack. We are here to protect the memory of those who were lost that day.”

She added that Gov Jeff Landry is overseeing the planning of a permanent Bourbon Street memorial.

Email Doug MacCash at dmaccash@theadvocate.com.

Amazon employees work inside the new Amazon delivery station in Slidell on Wednesday.

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS

GRANGER

150,000-square-foot facility in Elmwood on Monday. That is the company’s first same-day delivery site in Louisiana. At the site, it will use robotics to fulfill, sort and deliver thousands of sameday orders in the greater New Orleans region.

The St. Tammany and Jefferson Parish sites continue Amazon’s growth in Louisiana. The company has six delivery centers in Louisiana and four fulfillment centers across the state in cities like Shreveport and Baton Rouge The company says it has invested more than $3 billion across the state and created 6,000 full- and part-time jobs since 2010.

The new facility in Slidell comes as St. Tammany Parish has sought in recent years to position itself as a logistics hub.

site and an unappealing fate like what happened to the city’s former outlet mall, he said.

DiSanti added that the $27.6 million bond issuance should not be construed as the sale price of the mall, which is still under negotiation.

“It is only what is determined to be (the amount) supported by revenue that would be created by that (North Shore Economic Development) district,” he said.

DiSanti said he believes the future of the Northshore Boulevard business corridor is bright and asked the opponents to trust the decision makers rather than buy into the unsubstantiated narrative surrounding the mall purchase.

“Everyone who somehow thinks we’re getting rich off of this deal, that there’s all these side deals happening that are somehow supplementing the income that we make, you are absolutely wrong,” he said.

Email Kim Chatelain at kchatelaintp@gmail.com.

ish Finance Authority’s Heroes to Homeowners program, which offers a $2,500 grant for first-time homeowners who are teachers, first responders, health care professionals or members of the military Van Vrancken said.

The supplemental parish grant for fortified roofs will be a onetime program for now, although Van Vrancken said she hopes to find a regular source of funding in the future.

“Otherwise, I fear that people in south Louisiana are going to find it increasingly unaffordable to insure their homes,” she said.

The state has issued 3,700 grants since the program’s launch in 2023, and more than 4,000 other homes across the state have fortified their roofs without the grant, according to the Louisiana Department of Insurance.

“This program is vital for protecting our state against severe weather and making Louisiana a more attractive place for insurers to do business,” said Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple in a statement

SUIT

Continued from page 1B

In the months before she was let go, Villavaso reported that another employee, whose position was funded by federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars, committed payroll fraud when they claimed they attended a paid work-related conference and did not. The employee was not fired, her lawsuit alleges.

Cantrell’s administration said it would not comment on pending litigation. The suit was filed the same day Cantrell pleaded not guilty to 11 federal corruption counts. Prosecutors allege the mayor had an affair with her former bodyguard and charged trips the pair took to taxpayers.

Story, who is not named as a defendant in the lawsuit, did not immediately return a request for comment.

Villavaso is seeking damages

PLANT FIRE

Continued from page 1B

The suit claims US Fire’s work “significantly reduced the duration and extent of the fire at Smitty’s,” preventing injury and further damage to Smitty’s, its inventories and surrounding affiliated businesses, such as Cam2 International and Big 4 Trucking.

The massive fire burned at least one parish fire truck, caused the spill of millions of gallons of unknown chemicals into the Tangipahoa River and surrounding properties and sent a large, black plume over a rural corner of the parish, dropping soot on residents and requiring a 1-mile evacuation zone.

The EPA has said soot was reported 15 miles away from Smitty’s.

Filed Aug. 29, the lawsuit is one of at least 17 brought in the Tangipahoa courthouse in Amite against Smitty’s. Most are seeking class action status for fire-related damage.

‘Knew the risks’

Others are unique. On Tuesday, rancher Ronnie Polezcek sued Smitty’s over the alleged impact emissions and oil from the fire have had on his cattle and property

That suit, which isn’t seeking class action status, alleges one of the cows had a stillborn calf shortly after the explosion and that Polezcek was forced to move his cows after his home, pond, hay, pasture and cattle had been coated with soot and oily residue.

In addition to transportation costs, the rancher’s suit is seeking damages to his cattle and property which is 3 miles northeast of Roseland, and accuses Smitty’s of negligence, nuisance and trespass.

“Smitty’s knew the risks of its operations yet repeatedly failed to comply with the most basic safety and environmental standards,” said LaCrisha McAllister of Singleton Schreiber, the firm representing Polezcek. “This explosion was not an accident; it was the foreseeable result of years of negligence, and the surrounding community is now left to deal with the fallout.”

The suit detailed environmental violations and fines the company stacked up from the EPA and state. It points out that Smitty’s stored millions of gallons of petroleumbased products and chemical additives that, when burned, produced toxic hazardous organic compounds, heavy metals, dioxins and fine particulates.

The EPA has said its air and soot testing shows neither the emissions nor the material posed an immediate risk to the public; environmental groups have questioned this testing, however

Smitty’s did not immediately respond to a request for comment Wednesday on the rancher’s suit.

‘Grossly overcharged’

US Fire’s breach of contract and private works suit, which is also

and compensation for emotional distress She is also asking for reinstatement or compensation for lost wages.

The city’s share of the ARPA money $388 million provided for a range of public safety, infrastructure and public health initiatives, including $11 million allocated to Villavaso’s office to support job training and youth workforce development programs.

The City Council has been critical of the pace of spending by Cantrell’s administration, which had to have all of the money dedicated under signed contracts by the end of 2024 and spent by the end of 2026.

City officials announced in January that all of the money had been obligated to fund projects related to infrastructure, drainage improvements and youth mental health services, among other investments.

Email Joni Hess at joni.hess@ theadvocate.com.

not a class-action suit, is the first related to the unpaid costs associated with the fire response. Late last month, EPA officials reported that the company was having “solvency” issues. EPA is leading the response and using Superfund dollars to pay for the work, though Smitty’s is the potentially responsible party

An attorney for Smitty’s said on Wednesday that the company’s ability to pay isn’t the problem.

“This surprise legal filing by US Fire Pump Company only comes after Smitty’s Supply expressed their concern to this company about being grossly overcharged for the services US Fire provided,” David R. Sherman, attorney for Smitty’s and a lawyer at Chehardy, Sherman and Williams, said in a statement.

“This is about a company potentially choosing to take advantage of the situation that Smitty’s and Tangipahoa Parish were in during the immediate response to this incident.”

An attorney for US Fire didn’t immediately return requests for comment Wednesday

According to the suit, the company brought in 30 employees, multiple water pumps, a hose truck, excavators 10 two-ton response vehicles, drones for thermal imaging and product measurement, monitoring trailers, two foam monitoring trailers, 8 miles of various kinds of hoses and other equipment. The company also supplied fire suppression foam, the suit alleges.

US Fire directed those sources after Chad Tate, the president of Smitty’s, cut a deal for help at 1:44 p.m. Aug. 22.

Tate signed a work order and verbally instructed US Fire, the lawsuit alleges, to respond and “use its specialized equipment, expertise and manpower to contain and put out the fire at Smitty’s Roseland facility.”

With the lien filed against Smitty’s properties, US Fire also supplied a copy of a work order dated Aug. 22 and signed by Tate. Portions of the order are redacted and the space in the work order to describe what US Fire was supposed to do was left blank.

In addition to payment of the bill, US Fire is seeking contractual interest on the unpaid bill, attorney’s fees and court costs.

David J. Mitchell can be reached at dmitchell@ theadvocate.com.

Berry, Clara Carter,Anna

Chatman, Tanya

Clay,Kevin

Clay,Lawrenceand

Ronald

Coye', Dolores

Croon, Daisy

Dent,Genevieve

Edl, Jaromir

Encalade,Augrine

Gaines Jr., Rogers

Gibson-Dusuau,Anna Green,Shirley

Hudson,Claudia

Iannazzo,Paul

PitreSr.,Howard

PlaisanceSr.,Norman

Planchard, Jerome

RalphSr.,Tyrone

Rodriguez, Robert

Roy,Allen

Simmons Sr., Norris

Smith,Camille

Thomas Sr., James

Ursin, Darren Wilson Sr., Kwame Wise,Bryan EJefferson

Richardson FH

Croon, Daisy

Thomas Sr., James Ursin, Darren

NewOrleans

Boyd Family

Clay,Lawrenceand

Ronald Charbonnet

Gaines Jr., Rogers

Gibson-Dusuau,Anna

RalphSr.,Tyrone

Wilson Sr., Kwame

Dennis FuneralHome

Green,Shirley

DW Rhodes

Hudson,Claudia Smith,Camille

Estelle JWilson

Chatman, Tanya

Gertrude Geddes

Rodriguez, Robert

Greenwood

Iannazzo,Paul

Lake Lawn Metairie

Berry, Clara

St Tammany

Audubon

Edl, Jaromir

EJ Fielding

PitreSr.,Howard Simmons Sr., Norris West Bank

DavisMortuary

Carter,Anna Clay,Kevin Mothe Roy,Allen

Robinson FH

Encalade,Augrine Wise,Bryan

ClaraJeanPulitzer Berry,age 94, passed away at her home in Greensboro, North Carolina, on September 7,2025 after a brief illness. Clara was the daughter of the late Jack M. andLillian Sabludowsky Pulitzer,ofNew Orleans, LA. Anative New Orleanian, ClaraJeangraduated from Isidore Newman School,and attended Louisiana State Universityand the University of Alabama where she was amember of Sigma Delta Tausorority. She cherishedher family and was veryclose to her brother, Stanley Pulitzer,ofblessed memory.Her cousin, thelate SheilaCarmel Bashinski, was like asisterand one of her closest friends; Clara Jean was part of the large Pulitzerfamilyand loved her cousins like siblings. As the family expanded hercousins and better halves created the Pulitzer Cousins Club. Shewas proud to declare herself Corresponding Secretary and kept amusing minutes of their many dinner meetings; the reunions continue to this day. ClaraJeanmarriedthe love of her life, ManuelBerry,from Birmingham, Alabama in 1953,and enjoyed 41 wonderful years together until his passing in 1994. They traveled the worldtogether and enjoyed monthly dinners with theirclose friends, the Kosher Noshers.They raised three children who alladored her.Clara Jean set the bar highasthe perfect mother and willbedearlymissed Shewas an activemember of Gates of Prayer Sisterhoodand aboard memberofthe Jewish Children's Regional Service. Shealsovolunteered for many yearsat the NICU of TouroHospital and the World War II Museum. Clara Jean had a wonderful sense of humor which she sharedwith both family andfriends Sherelished thegreat food and restaurantsofNew Orleans, and thatwas likely whatshe missedmost after moving to Greensboro following the devastationofHurricane Katrina.Fortunately, she joinedTempleEmanuelin Greensboro, met anew social circleoffriends,attendedTorah Studyon Saturdays and volunteered onSundaysinthe temple library.She is survived by her three children and their spouses, JoelBerry (Elissa), SusieGolding (Jay), and PatriciaPierce (Tom). Shecherishedher grandchildren, Jarrett Golding (Sarah), Stephen Golding (Melissa), Kyle Golding (Samantha), Lilly Pierce and Madeline Pierce. She was also blessed with six greatgrandchildren, George and Beau Golding, Ruby and NolanGolding, and Elle and Lucy Golding. Sheisalso survived by herdear nephew andniece and their spouses, Dr.Donald Pulitzer (Donna) and Nancy Gold (Dr. Robert). We wouldliketoextend special thanks to herlongtime caregivers Robin Stevens, Ashontee Thompson,Hawa Khelleh, Francess Cooperand Geneva Neal.Funeral serviceswillbeheld in the Plotkin Pavilion at Gates of Prayer Cemetery, 1428 Joseph StreetinNew Orleans on Friday, September 12 at10:30am. In lieuofflowers, donationsmay be sent to the Jewish Children sRegional Service,Congregation Gates of Prayer, Temple Emanuel(Greensboro, NC) or acharity of yourchoice.

eternalrestather daugh‐ter’s residenceonSatur‐day,August30, 2025, at the age of 87. Shewas anative and resident of NewOr‐leans,LA. Anna enjoyed shopping, cookingand ex‐ercising. Shewillbere‐memberedfor herfeisty courageousdemeanor. Beloved wife of thelate JohnCarter, Sr.Devoted motherofWilbert (Karen) Ricard, Patricia Ricard (Gordon)Wheaton,Pamela Ricard, andthe late Paul (Cheryl Ann) Feastand Deborah Ricard.Loving grandmother of Paul (Julie) Feast,Jr.,Shauntell, Shaun‐dell, andDebra Feast, Nikita(Reggie) Armwood Cassandra (Arthur)Whit‐field, Sharon (Andros) Stevenson,DarrylRicard, and Toral(Raven) Ricard, Jr. Daughter of thelate Isiah Feastand HildaRay Feast.Anna is also sur‐vived by 27 greatgrand‐children, andhostofother relatives andfriends.Rela‐tives andfriends of the family, also priest and parishionersofAll Saints Catholic Church andall neighboring churches;em‐ployees of HeartofHos‐pice, DiMartino’s, Archdio‐ceses Immaculate Concep‐tion, T. Parker Host Termi‐nal,LeBayou Restaurant ThrasherConstruction, Clean Harbors, Compass Group,KarrHighSchool , and Serenity Hospiceare invited to attend theMass ofChristian Burial at All SaintsCatholicChurch, 1441 TecheStreet,New Or‐leans,LAonFriday, Sep‐tember12, 2025, at 10:00a.m. Visitation will begin at 8:30a.m. until ser‐vicetimeatthe church.In‐terment:Woodlawn Park MemorialCemetery-West‐wego, LA.Arrangementsby Davis Mortuary Service, 230 Monroe St.Gretna, LA Toviewand sign theguest‐book,pleasegotowww davismortuaryservice.com. Face MasksAre Recom‐mended.

Chatman, Tanya MarieFranklin

TanyaMarie Franklin Chatman,entered this earthly life on December 14, 1965, in NewOrleans, Louisiana,toFranFranklin and Thomas Jackson. She was thefourthof five chil‐dren, andthe only girl.By virtueofbeing theonly girl, shewas hermother's bestfriend. Tanyawas ed‐ucatedinthe NewOrleans PublicSchool System.As anadult shewas employed inthe serviceindustryat Service Star LLC. andfor over15years at theRe‐naissanceHotel.Tanya will berememberedfor her kindness, compassion and givingspirit. Aloving mothertoher five children Tanya treasuredher chil‐drenand grandchildren and embraced everymo‐mentwiththem. Tanya was adevoted wife to her husband.OnAugust27, 2025 at theage of 59, Tanya entered peacefully into eternal rest.She waspre‐ceded in deathbyher fa‐ther, Thomas Jackson; her sons, Henryand Jamel Franklin; herbroth‐ers,Thomas, Terrance,Troy and GregoryFranklin; her maternalgrandmother,Is‐abel(Madear)HallWilson Franklin. Tanya'slifewill forever be cherishedand rememberedbyher hus‐band, JamesChatman;her children; Joandrika, Darryl and Richard; herstep-chil‐dren, Ieshaand Cory Barnes; herparents,Fran and Robert Javers;her grandchildren Asiah, Lamar,Italy,Ja'Myaand Cur'Chea; hergreat-grand‐child Laci;her uncle and aunts, FrederickFranklin, CherylStewart,Florence Franklinand Kathleen Washington; herbrother and sister-in-law; Chris Chatman andEvelynChat‐man,niecesand nephew, Keyonia,Debony, Keyshanda,Keyshawn, Ciara,and Gregory: her dearfriends,Margaret Lawrence, CharmikCollins and Patricia Fulfordand a hostofother relativesand friends. Relativesand

friendsofthe family, also pastor, officers,and mem‐bersare invitedtoattend the CelebrationofLifeSer‐viceonSaturdaySeptem‐ber 13, 2025 for10:00 a.m. atGreater Evergreen Bap‐tistChurch 2243 Clouet St New Orleans, La.70117 Visitationfrom9:00a.m until 10:00 a.m. (service time).Rev.TerranceA.Ran‐son,Sr. officiating. Inter‐ment: Mount Olivet Mau‐soleum, 4000 Norman Mayer Ave. NewOrleans, La. 70122. Arrangements entrusted to Estelle J. Wil‐son FuneralHome, Inc. 2715 Danneel St.NOLA 70113. Information: (504) 895-4903. To sign online guest book please visit www.estellejwilsonfh.com.

Clay,Kevin Phillips

KevinPhillipsClayde‐partedthislifeatOchsner Medical Center Main Cam‐pus on Thursday,Septem‐ber 4, 2025, at theage of 34 Hewas anativeand resi‐dentofMarrero,LA. Kevin was agraduateofJohn Ehret High School andre‐centlycompleted Coventry TruckingSchool,where he proudly earned hisCDL Li‐cense.Kevin wasalsoa li‐censedwelderwho took pride andjoy in allhis ac‐complishments anden‐deavors.Heembracedhis renewed path with dedica‐tionand drivetocreatea betterlifefor himand his loved ones.Beloved sonof Kevin Clay (Gwendolyn Alexander)and Nedra (Charles) Ruffin. Grandson ofRosaFay Phillips,Lillie Clay, andthe late Em‐manuelPhillips, Jr.and ClarenceDollis. Loving brother of Kevineka Clay Kejuann Charles, and Kareshona Larkins. Cher‐ished uncle of Charley Mack. Nephew of Karen Phillips, Lynn Cooper of CA, ChantellWilliams, and Kevin (Kim)Phillips. God‐son of Yvette Williams and Solomon Doyle. Kevinis alsosurvivedbyhis de‐voted companionAngel Jones,and hisbonus daughterand son, Ca’mani Jones andAntoine Craig, and ahostofcousins other relativesand friends. Relatives andfriends of the family, also pastors, offi‐cers, andmembers of Sec‐ond Zion BaptistChurch and allneighboring churches;employees of Jefferson Parish SheriffOf‐fice,UnitedSites Services First Step Family Youthand FamilyServicesare invited toattend theCelebration ofLifeatDavis Mortuary Service,6820 Westbank Ex‐pressway, Marrero, LA on Friday, September12, 2025, at10:00a.m. Bishop James NelsonBrown, officiating. Visitationwillbegin at 8:30a.m.until servicetime atthe abovenamed parlor Interment: Woodlawn Park MemorialCemetery-West‐wego, LA.Toviewand sign the guestbook ,pleasego towww.davismortuaryse rvice.com.FaceMasks Are Recommended

Clay,Lawrenceand Ronald

Lawrence andRonald departedthislifeonSep‐tember4,2025. Lawrence is survivedbyhis fiancé BrendaTaylor; sonAllen Fernandez,two daughters Ebony Clay,and Tierra Clay-Wright (Ky'Juan); grandchildren; QuintonClay, Jerzhee Morehead,Chris‐ten Wesley Jr., Khemistree Wesley, andZyaireWright. Ronaldissurvivedbyhis devoted companionFlo‐retta Portis;son Ronald Anderson, granddaughter; JaMya Barthelemy;sister; CynthiaClayDavis,two

aunts; Patricia LaBeaux and Donna J. Jonesand a hostofother relativesand friends.Precededindeath bytheir parentsHerbert and MaryNell Sutton Clay; sisterMaryNellGooch; brother Harold Clay Sr., Ronald'sson Jamel Franklin; andnephew HaroldClayJr. Family and friends areinvited to at‐tendthe Memorial Service celebrating thelives of Lawrenceand Ronald on Friday, September12, 2025, for 10:00 a.m. at TheBoyd FamilyFuneralHome, 5001 ChefMenteur Hwy.,New Orleans,LA70126. Visita‐tionwillbegin at 9:30 a.m. PastorRobertBrown, offi‐ciating.Private Burial Guestbook Online:www anewtraditionbegins.com (504) 282-0600. DonavinD Boydand Linear Brooks BoydOwners/FuneralDi‐rectors

Coye', DoloresBergquist

Dolores LeeBergquistCoye', aretired Orleans Parish principal andworld traveler,was calledtoher heavenly home on Monday, September 1, 2025, at the age of 95. Dolores was born in NewOrleans.She was a long-time member of SigmaGamma Rho, NAUW andSt. Luke theEvangelist Church in Slidell Shegraduated from McDonogh35High School at theage of 15, Xavier University and the University of Denver Dolores served the New OrleansPublic School System for more than 50 years. Prior to Hurricane Katrina, shewas thelast electedPresident of LRTA Dolores leaves to cherish hermemory hergrandsons: David Neco, Sr., Byron Johns, Jr (Bryon J Muhammad) andJason Johns; great-grandchildren:David Neco, Jr Donte' Neco, JaylaNeco, Najah Johns, Javian Neco, Jada Johns, MeccaJohns, andSalaam Johns; anda host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, andloved ones. Shewas preceded in death by herhusband PhilipCoye', parents Reason Lee, Sr., andHilda Lee; herson,Byron Johns, Sr.; and hersiblings: Reason Lee, Jr., RosettaL Young,Mamie L. Paige,Joe N. Lee, Ernest L. Lee, Calvin Lee, Sr., George R. Lee (HakinMujahid), Michael G. Lee, and Ursula Lee.

Relatives, friends,and members of SigmaGamma RhoSorority, NewOrleans PublicSchool System,St. Tammany School System, andCoca-Cola are invited to attendher Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Jacob Schoen &Son Funeral Home, 3827 Canal Street, NewOrleans,LA70119, (504)482-2111. Father Suvakin Aruoandu will officiate. Visitation willbe held from9:00 to 11:00 a.m. Intermentwillfollow at Lake LawnCemetery,5100 Pontchartrain Blvd New Orleans, LA 70124.

Celebrationoflifefor Sis.Daisy S. Croon, Decem‐ber 6, 1955 –September 6, 2025. Momleftthisearthly lifeand found anew home inheaven. Godwas calling her home.Mom leaves to mourn herformerhusband Charles Croon, Sr.and her childrenHoltonand Donna Smith,Charles Croon,Jr., Glenn Croon,Sr.,Muriel and Jacqueline Croon. Rel‐ativesand friendsofthe family; also pastors, offi‐cersand membersofKen‐ner CalvaryB.C.; andem‐ployees of R.T.A.,Jefferson ParishTransportation. Jef‐fersonParishSchool Board and Oiland GasCompany are invitedtoattend the funeral on Saturday,Sep‐tember13, 2025 at Kenner Calvary BaptistChurch,929 S.SibleySt.,Metairie, LA 70003. Visitation 9-10 am Service at 10 am.Rev.Dr. James E. Turner,officiat‐ing.Interment at Provi‐dence Memorial Park,8200 Airline Dr., Metairie,LA 70003. Richardson Funeral HomeofJefferson,River Ridge,LA, in charge of arrangements. www.ric hardsonfuneralhomeofjeff erson.com

GenevieveWillisDent was born on January15, 1938 in Matthews, LA to Ed‐wardand Ruby MaeWillis. OnAugust23, 2025 sur‐rounded by herlovingfam‐ily shewentontodance withthe angels.She was the adoringwifeof LawrenceA.Dent, ade‐voted mother to LeroyWil‐son (Stephanie), Steven Willis,AliciaWillis, Ruby DeniseWilson, andShawn A.Dent(Christina),loving sistertoMelvinWillis(Pa‐tricia),Doretha Kirkland, Ervin Willis,Janice Bernard,and DinahWillis, amazing grandmotherto 24grandchildren,77greatgrandchildren,and 15great-great-grandchildren Gennyspent heryears car‐ing forothersinher pro‐fession as aCNA forover 30+yearsand after retire‐mentspent hertimecaring for hergrandchildren and her great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death byparents,her adoring husband,her siblings Elve‐ria Stewart, Edward Willis Jr.,her daughter Sylvia Cook,her grandchildren, Richian Wilson,LawsonCe‐lestine Jr Terrinique Win‐ters, andLeroy Wilson Jr She leaves to cherishher memorya host of nieces, nephews,cousins,and lov‐ing friends. AMassof Christian Burial will be heldonSaturday, Septem‐ber 13, 2025 at Corpus Christi Church,2022 St Bernard Ave.,New Orleans, La. starting with avisita‐tionfrom8 am to 10 am servicesstartingat10am. IntermentwillbeatMc‐

Croon,Daisy S.

Berry, Clara Jean Pulitzer

Dent,Genevieve Willis

OUR VIEWS

On

9/11,we

reflecton ourunity and strength in face of terror

Editor’snote:Versions of thiseditorialhave been published on previous9/11 anniversaries.

When terrorists attacked America on Sept.11, 2001, theworld was avery different place. With the end of Cold Warand the fall of the Soviet Union,the country had seen aperiodofrelative peace and prosperity as the world’s only remaining superpower But new threats were bubbling beneath the surface, and on that fateful TuesdayinSeptember they would burstinto full view,altering our sense of what national security means for decades to come.

Just as the work day wasbeginning,America and the worldwatched with horror as apassengerjet flew into the NorthTower of the World Trade Center in New York.

Surely,itmust be some terrible accident, many thought at that moment. But the reality of the situation wouldsoon become clear when, 16 minutes later,another airliner flew intothe South Tower of the landmark office complex.

At 9:37 a.m.EST,ahijacked airliner flew into the western façade of the Pentagon.A half-hour later, after aheroic revolt bypassengers, four hijackers flew United Airlines Flight 93 into a field in Pennsylvania.

Time seemed compressed forusthen. Events flowed together into an emotional stormthatis vividly rememberedbyeveryone who felt the attack on America on Sept.11, 2001. They say that time heals all wounds. That’s not true for the thousands of familiessuffering from the loss of loved ones, includingyoung adultswho have grown up without aparent or a sibling.

With the killing of Osama bin Laden and several of his leading co-conspirators, some measureofjusticewas metedout for 9/11. Tragically,for the good people of Afghanistan, ourefforts failed to preventthat countryfrom backslidingintothe handsofthe Talibanand becoming aharbor for terrorists.

Each year,aswemove further from the events of 9/11, it becomes even more important that we stop and reflect on that day.Nations must have long memories,not justoflossbut also of the incredible fortitudeand courage of ourpeopleinthe aftermathoftragedy.When NewYorkers were wounded andhurting, aid and sympathy poured in from all parts of the country.Welet the world know thatthese United States were standing strongand standing together

We also ought to remember how the world ralliedaroundusand against thehatefulideology of terrorists who, then as now,seek to sowdivision amongthe communityof freenations.We value the alliesthat have stood with us throughout history,not because we alwaysagree, but becausewhen it matters, they are there. And in an increasingly unstable world, it’s good to know we don’thave to goitalone.

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

YOUR VIEWS

Lawmakersmustsupport NIHand itsstate impact

As ahematologist and medical oncologist, Iamdeeply concerned about the administration’sproposed cuts to the National Institutes of Healthand theimpact on thehealth of my patients and thepeople of New Orleansand Louisianaatlarge. NIH is the nation’slargest public funder of medical research, and investment in its work has led to incredible innovation in medicine. Childhood leukemia survival rates have improved immensely in thepast 30 years because of research that has come from NIH, and new treatments for sickle cell disease, lymphoma and leukemia have given hope to those whomight have otherwise run out of treatment options. Louisianacannot afford cuts to medical research that will put our community at greater risk. Ourstate has thefourth-highest rate of cancer deathinthe nation, withsignificant disparities across populations. For

example, men with Cajun ancestry have an 11% greater risk of developing colon cancer than men in other partsofthe country NIH funds research that aims to understand why these differences may affect patient care. Reducing that support meanswe’re closing the door to developing new treatments, even cures for cancer,Alzheimer’s, heart disease and other conditions. If theNIH budget is cut, it could stop or delay new treatments from reaching thepeople who need them the most. Ultimately,our community will pay theprice.

Medical advances and breakthroughs depend on sustained support.AsCongress prepares to debate thebudget,weneed our lawmakers to recognize the importance of medical research to the people of our state and fully fund NIH CHANCELLOR DONALD NewOrleans

Chef’s exampleshone brightly followingKatrina

For me, likesomanyofmycompatriots, the20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina was solemnly commemorated as atime for reflection,remembrance and agreater commitment to embrace and respect our shared humanity.InAugust 2005, Iworked at the Convention Center, where Iwitnessed firsthand thehorrors, anguish and suffering of people who were in dire need of food, water and medicine. Namely,Iwitnessed people of goodwill, my fellow securitycolleagues, who provided care and comfort for the downtrodden. Conversely,Ialso witnessed inhumanity at its worst when Convention Center

The Icon Turns 50 supplementthat was included in the Aug. 3paper was a good read, but Iwas disappointed and surprised that the writers left out two important events thatI was lucky to attend in the Dome. The Eagles’ “Hell Freezes Over” tour on May 4, 1995. As Irecall, the Dome was rocking and packed. At the time,I was working on an environmental project of Don Henley’s Caddo Lake Institute on the Texas/

honchos refused to feed someof their employees, one being afemale employee with children. Despite theprohibition to feed employees, Convention Center executive chef Leon West’sbeautiful humanity shone brightly, and he ignored such drivel. Ishall always remember thecompassion of West. He fed people. He tried to allay their anxieties with encouraging words. He demonstrated that he genuinely cared about the hungry and needy West’s selflessact affirmed the best of what humanity is, i.e., loving and caring for our brothers and sisters.

HUEYHARRISON NewOrleans

Louisiana border.Another noteworthy event was the FinalFourChampionship of April2,2012, featuring Kentucky vs. Kansas, which Iattended. Kentucky beat Kansas 67-59. Future Pelicans star Anthony Daviswas named MVP In closing, the best eventI attended would be the NFCtitle gamethe Saints won over the Vikings on Jan.4,2010. JIMMY JOHNSTON Slidell

I’mconfused by the coverage of the LSU vs. Louisiana Tech football game. Reading the sports page, it seemsyour reporters believed that Tech couldn’t score against LSU because of the Tigers’ great defense, while also maintaining that the Tigers couldn’tscore against the Bulldogs because of LSU’s sloppy offense. Holding those positions simultaneously is something of a logical inconsistency and might not be telling the whole story Is it not possible that the Bulldogs also have agood defense? Is it not possible that Louisiana Tech, with asmall fraction of LSU’senrollment and practically none of its NIL dollars, nevertheless can put agood football team on the field? Ateam that perhaps forgot its role, which waspresumably to come to Baton Rouge, get pummeled, collect its check, and go home?

The writers said that the result of the gamewas never in doubt. Idon’t think those in attendance at Tiger Stadium would agree, at least through the first half.The newspaper also reported earlier last weekthat LSU would not start its first-string quarterback. Not only was that not the case, but the Bulldogs also forced the Tigers to give an all-out effort forfour quarters simply to winthe game, not to mention failing to cover the spread by alarge margin.

Iexpect The Advocate’ssports section to be LSU-centric. But it is also aLouisiana paper,and Tech is also a Louisiana school. Iwould have liked to have seen at least apositive mention of the effort and relative success of the Bulldogs against overwhelming resources and in ahostile venue. RILEY HAGAN III St. George

Tributetoagreat

American songwriter

For TomLehrer on the date of his passing, July 26: When you were alive

Youbrought much joy to The adolescent self of me Comedy,satire

Skewering awider world

For everyone to see.

SYDNEYWOLF NewOrleans

PresidentTrump rampingup deportations amid debate

When you think about the current political fight over immigration enforcement, start with this: There are millions of people, at least 15 million and perhaps as many as 20 million, who are in the United States illegally.Millions of them are new arrivals with no claim to stay in the U.S., having arrived in the mass border incursion of the Biden years. Many should be deported. But in our system, it is very hard to deport millions of people. It is easier to get them to deport themselves. In the 2020 election, Democratic primary candidates vied with each other over who could offer the most openborders policy

The winner,Joe Biden,went on to theWhite House and presided over the influx of millions of illegal border crossers. The Biden border catastrophe was one reason Donald Trump won in 2024. And now,President Donald Trump is making good on his campaign promise to ramp up deportations.

It is controversial, to say the least. And it has fired up adebate over whether “illegally” really means “illegally,” or whether those who crossed into the United States in defiance of its laws should be allowed to stay with few, if any,consequences. In short, should the United States enforce its immigration law,ornot?

It’snot clear precisely how much Biden increased the number of people who are in the country illegally.On the low end, there’s this, from Pew Research: “The number of unauthorized immigrants in the United States reached an all-time high of 14 million in 2023after two consecutive years of record growth. The increase of 3.5 million in two years is the biggest on record.” Of course, in 2023, there was still nearly two more years of the border rush to go, so the actual number is definitely higher.Onthe high end, there could be 20 million people in the country illegally

During the campaign, while Trump repeatedly promised “mass deportations,” he focused on deporting illegal immigrants who had committed serious crimes beyond illegally entering the United States —the so-called “worst first” strategy.Inoffice, the Trump administration has certainly donealot of that.

But the Trump team is also staging high-profile enforcement operations at

worksites likely to have alot of illegal immigrant workers.

Some of them haveadditional criminal records, but others do not What is the thinking behind that? It is thathigh-profile immigration actions have effects far beyond any specificbusiness targeted on any specific day

During the transition, Art Arthur,a former immigration judge who is now with the Center for Immigration Studies, explained the workinvolved in deporting even asingle person.That person would be placed in removal proceedings before an immigration judge.“Some of them have made asylum claims,” Arthursaid. “Some didn’t make any claim at all. Some of them may have come many yearsago, and they’ve been sitting on the docket for decades.” Arthur saidthe U.S. has the resources to remove about 400,000 people peryear —maybe 600,000 if officials are given more money and staff.

Butlast month came reports that 1.6 million people who were in the U.S. illegally left the country between January and July.“This is likely due to increased out-migration in response to stepped-up enforcement,” noted CIS. So many of them left —aprocess that likely continues today.Itturns out the “mass deportations” that Trump promised inthe 2024 campaign are happen-

ing —except they are in fact mass self-deportations. If theBiden yearsproved anything, it is that there have to be consequences for entering the United States illegally.Ifthereare no consequences, the flow of illegal crossers will get bigger and bigger and bigger.Asfor the disruption in thelives of those illegal immigrantswho choosetoleave, first, they did enter the U.S. illegally,and second, many of thosetargeted in the Trump enforcement haven’tbeen in thecountry for very long. Pew noted that “a record number of unauthorized immigrantshave been in theU.S. fora relatively short time due to therapid growthinthe overall unauthorized population since 2021.” Thoseleaving becauseofthe raids arelikely to include many who have thefewest ties to theUnited States Meanwhile, thepolitical battle over Trump’spolicy rages on. Many Democrats have pledged to resist Trump’s enforcement of immigration law Some have tried to blur thedistinction between legal andillegal immigration, as if all have theright to stay in the United States, in hopes of turning public opinion againstTrump’s actions. ButTrump has thelaw on his side.

Byron York is on X, @Bryon York. Email him at byronyork@yorkcomm. com.

“Most of those trampledsites on thoseplaces-you-must-golists also depend on tourismfor jobs and revenues.”

Touristcrowdsaren’tgoodfor tourists,either

My sister and her guy just returned from Portugal after their second big travel ventureofthe year.I asked, naturally,“How was it?” She said, “Awful.” Theywere crammed in Porto alongside a zillion other tourists. Acrush of bodies and long lines under a brutal sun. The experience left them with acase of hodophobia, the fear of travel. (Hodos is Greek for “journey ”) They vow to stick closer to home.

Duplessis’ mayoraladis an unnecessary stinkbomb

When state Sen. Royce Duplessis belatedly entered the race for mayor of New Orleans, it seemed like apropitious development, promising amore thorough discussion of issues and ideas to raise New Orleans from the doldrums. Duplessis’ newad, though, is exactly the kind of divisive message, quite arguably race-infused, that is the exact opposite of the tone andcontent New Orleanians deserve.

The ad is afull-fledged attack against the front-runner,City Council memberHelena Moreno. Granted, politicsisarough game, and there’snothing wrong with drawing substantive differences with one’sopponent. This ad seems to go farther than that, though, with fairly obvious cues for racial animus.

The problem is mostly one of tone. The substance is rather unremarkable: Flashing bad statistics and unflattering, light-altered photos of Moreno across the screen, the ad essentially blames Moreno for failing while on the City Council to ward off the city’sloss of 39,000residents, large utility rate hikes and “chaosinCity Hall.”

But the narrator’svoice is —well, Itread lightly here, but it’strue —quite obviously and rather exaggeratedly that of aBlack woman. And the key line, offered both aloud and in bold print while only Black people are shown on screen, is that “Royce is one of us.”

Again, “One of us.” After nearly 50 years in and around politics, Iknow aracial message whenI see one. With New Orleans still being asubstantially Black majority city,the clear intent is to rally Black voters behind Duplessis against the White/Hispanic Moreno. And yes, Moreno, in a recent poll, shows arather consolidated support rate from 70% of White people, so Duplessis is trying to attract votes where he can find them: elsewhere. Still, the ad rankles. One reason this seems so stark to me is that the ad spurs amajor feeling of déjà vu, or maybe it’sreverse déjà vu. Back in 2005, in my last year as chiefeditorial writerfor the Mobile (Alabama) Register, amayoral runoff featured awidely respected Black, longtime county commissioner,Sam Jones, against aWhite city councilman, John Peavy, also of good repute. Mobile at the timestill had aWhite-majority electorate, but polls showed that voting that year might not be as racially polarized as in the past, and Peavy seemedtobe trailing. (Note: This is similar to how Duplessis seems to be trailing Moreno now in NewOrleans, with polls showing aless racially polarized electorate than in some prior years.)

Peavy’steam ran an ad —Iwish Istill hadaccess to it —that was remarkably similarintone and style to Duplessis’ ad now,except with the races in reverse. The narrator’svoicewas clearly,indeed exaggeratedly,that of aWhite woman. The context involved issues that many people associate with race.Most people immediately thought that the subtextual message (just barely sub-) was to rally White voters to Peavy’sside As in: “He’sone of us.”

Overtourism is aplague for destinations as diverse as Barcelona and the Galapagos Islands. Thelocals are finding their leisurely village ways —amain attraction for the human tsunamis —ruined by tourists grabbing cafe chairs and swarming vendors selling ice cream and T-shirts.

Visitors wanting an authentic interaction with the culture find themselves chewed up in the tourism maw Is there away to restore the thrill of new places? That would be hard withtheir sightlines taken up by Instagrammers looking to fill their feeds in front of picturesque fountains.

Can anything be done about this?

Most of those trampled sites on those places-you-must-go listsalso depend on tourism for jobs and revenues. As one partial solution, some of the targeted countries have put in place or upped their tourism taxes. Some have tried to steer the hordes

away from the hottest spots —Portugal has been playing up cities outside Lisbon, such as Porto. As one might guessfrom my sister’s recent trip, Portohas been overrun by theTikTok mobs Perhaps we should start mocking those lists or at least stop giving them credence. One of my feeds turned up “Bucket List Journey” offering “My Top100 FavoriteExperiences” (Really,MyTop 100 Selfies). Each features the influencer,highly styled in hiking boots, awork shirtand a tousledblondish mane. Her No. 2adventure, “Swim in theJellyfish Lake in Palau,” hasher underwater in atiny bikini, jellyfish floating all around. Andofcourse, sheurges readers, “Visit My Shop!” with ahandy link. Celebritiesalsocan’tstop themselves from mugging for thecameras in places they have no ties to. Singer Katy Perry was videoed cavorting in abikini smack on top of environmentally fragile and protected dunes on the SpanishislandofIbiza. She’salso seen on the back of amotorcycle zipping through avillage. Herproduction company apparently forgot to ask the local governmentfor permission to shoot Jeff Bezos and his bride fancied theycould take over Venice for their recent wedding party.Already overwhelmed by tourists, Venice didn’t care tobeexpropriated by an Ameri-

can multi-billionaire as background for his grotesque wedding show.(Locals demonstrated against it as an affront to La Serenissima.)

The Englishvillage of Bourton-onthe-Water is plagued by what it calls “TikTok tourists.” Called theVenice of theCotswolds, thevillage is plagued by crowds using theriver and itspicturesque bridges solely for content creation. These visitors show scant interestinthe heritage or natural environment

“They arethe ultimate hit-and-run tourist,” alocal official complained to theBBC Perhaps there’salong-shot solution in turning some of the social media hams off from these phony “experiences.”

You’d hatetostart charging people for simply walkingvillage streets. Rome has made it illegal to sitonthe SpanishStepsorwade in the Trevi Fountain. (Exhibitionists are especially keen on recreating AnitaEkberg’s wet romp in “La Dolce Vita.”)

Some enterprising soul can set up astudio withstagesets for Machu Picchu or Portofino. They can put big turtles on rocksresembling the Galapagos coastline. Then content creators have one-stop traveling for their scenery and can leave the real places alone.

Just athought Froma Harrop is on X, @FromaHarrop.

The ad actually caused abacklash. And even as an outspoken conservative, Iwrote aspecial columnfor the national, center-Left (atthe time) New Republic magazine, explaining why Mobile was likely to elect its first Black mayorand why Jones’ race wasless important than his extensive experience and his reputation as abridgebuilder.Jones eventually won with astrong 56.5% of the vote. Still, Peavy’sad-maker had inserted some poison into the political atmosphere of what previously hadbeen alargely positive campaign.

It is too soon to tell if Duplessis’ ad will work as he intends, or if it might cause abacklash against him or,perhaps, have little effect either way. The shame of it is, though, that Duplessis has beena serious and effective legislator,one who could run on his own record without running an ad so heavy-handed, nasty and, yes, racially tinged. As if anticipating just such tactics, former judge DesireeCharbonnet, who finished second in the race for mayor eight years ago, put forth astatement on Aug. 25 (two weeks before Duplessis’ ad) endorsing Moreno while warning that “there are some people who are choosing a mayoral candidate only for reasons that seekto divide us.”

Campaigns do not need to be run in the manner of Duplessis’ commercial. It should be noted that another major candidate for mayor,City Council memberOliver Thomas, is out with an entirely positive, upbeat ad highlighting his own accomplishments. Thomas’ ad is acomparative breath of fresh air Nobody is suggesting that politics be played like patty cake. Race-infused sledgehammers, though, should be anathema.

EmailQuin Hillyer at quin.hillyer@ theadvocate.com

Quin Hillyer

Froma Harrop

Byron York

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO

Awoman is detained by U.S. Border Patrol agents outsideaHomeDepot in Los Angeles last month.

The Times-Picayune

DonoghvilleCemeteryin

Gretna, LA

Edl, Jaromir'Mirek'

Jaromir“Mirek” Edl, of Slidell, Louisiana, passed awayonAugust26, 2025, at the ageof54. Born on Au‐gust17, 1971, in Prague, Czech Republic,Jaromir was aman whose loving natureand zest forlifeleft a lastingimpressiononall who knew him. Jaromir was predeceasedbyhis parents,Jaromir Edland Jaroslava Marešová. He leavesbehind, to cherish his memory,his wife with whomheshared26years oftreasured memories, D'Ann Kerby-Edl, andthree children, JaromirEdl (Krys‐tal Corcoran), Tomáš Edl, and Dita Edl(Kyle Pavel‐ski). Hislegacycontinues through hisgrandchildren KaleCorcoranand Gabriel Edl,who broughtimmense joy to hislife. Jaromir’slov‐ing spirit will also be fondlyrememberedbyhis siblings, Robert Jezil(Eve‐lyn)and Zuzana Tikalová (Petr Tikal),aswellasa hostofextendedfamily members andfriends Jaromir's professional life was marked by hisdedica‐tiontohis role as anotary, where he served hiscom‐munitywithintegrity anda friendlydemeanor. His workwas notjusta jobbut a waytoconnect with peo‐ple from allwalks of life, offering them guidance and supportintheir times ofneed. Beyond hisprofes‐sionalendeavors,Jaromir was amemberofthe Gal‐lopingGoose Motorcycle Club. Hispassion formo‐torcycles andthe open roadwas more than a hobby;itwas away for him to explorethe world, makelasting friendships, and experience thefree‐dom he so cherished. Those who knew Jaromir willrememberhim as apil‐lar of strength forhis fam‐ily,a source of laughter and wisdom forhis friends, and abeaconofkindness inhis community.Relatives and friendsare invitedto attenda visitation on Sat‐urday,September 13, 2025, from1:00p.m.to4:00p.m atAudubon FuneralHome inSlidell.Memoriesand condolences maybeex‐pressedatwww.Audubon FuneralHome.com

continued from Debra),Flora Mae, Gary (Faye), Mancil (Kay), and Calvin(thelateJoyce)Dun‐can.She is furthersurvived by48grandchildren,168 great-grandchildren,53 great-great-grandchildren, and 1great-great-greatgrandchild,along with a hostofnieces, nephews, cousins,and friendswho willforever treasure her loveand wisdom. Rela‐tives,friends of thefamily, pastors,officers,members ofZionHillChristian Church,and allneighbor‐ing churches areinvited to attend theCelebration of LifeonSaturday, Septem‐ber 13,2025, at Zion Hill Christian Church in Boothville,Louisiana.Visi‐tationwillbeheldfrom 10:00 am to 12:00pm, fol‐lowed by thefuneral ser‐viceat12:00 noon,offici‐atedbyPastorSamuel CrumJr. Entombment will followatFirst Mt.Zion MemorialCemeteryinEm‐pire, Louisiana. Funeral serviceshavebeenen‐trusted to Robinson Family FuneralHome, 9611 LA-23, Belle Chasse,LA70037, (504) 208-2119. Foronline condolences,pleasevisit www.robinsonfamilyfuner alhome.com.

Encalade,Augrine Gladys Duncan Stewart

AugrineGladysDuncan Stewart Encalade,Septem‐ber 15, 1938 –September 4, 2025. AugrineGladysDun‐can StewartEncalade, age 86, enteredeternal rest on Thursday, September4, 2025, surrounded by her lovingfamily. Shewas born onSeptember 15,1938, to the late MaizeJones Dun‐can andLambert Adam Duncan. Augrinewas bap‐tized at ayoung ageatMt. Olive BaptistChurchbythe lateRev.JohnTaylorand was along-time,devoted memberofZionHillChrist‐ian Church in Boothville, Louisiana,where shenur‐tured herfaith throughout her life.She waspreceded indeath by herparents Maize andLambert Dun‐can;her husbands,Felix Stelly,CarlStewart Sr., and Willie Edward Encalade; her sonVernon(Loretta) DuncanSr.;her daughter Lucretia(KeithSr.)Es‐padron; grandchildren Richard Woulardand Christy Merrick; andone great-grandchild. Augrine leavestocherish hermem‐ory herdevoted children: Carnell Hight(Derek),Cas‐sandraMayfield(Mack), CarlStewart Jr.(Kay), DanitaLaFrance, Edward Demolle,PatriciaJackson, Hiwanis Stewart, Carlette Davis,and Cassandra Cook.She is also survived byher loving siblings:Vi‐vian(thelateArnold) Tay‐lor,Gaynell (SamuelSr.) Crum,Robert(the late

On Friday,August29, 2025, Rogers Gaines,Jr.,af‐fectionatelyknownas “Pedie”,heard TheLord callhis name,carefully took hishandand transi‐tionedintoeternityatthe age of 62 yearsyoung Rogers wasbornonSep‐tember26, 1962 in New Or‐leans,LA, to Yvonne Gaines Johnson andthe late Rogers Gaines,Sr. A1980 graduateofJohnMc‐Donogh High School," Pedie"continued hisedu‐cationatSouthernUniver‐sityofNew Orleansand SidneyN.Collier Voca‐tionalTechnical School.A retired truckdriver, he was a former employee of Sysco,IronMountain, Shred-It, ChisesiMeat Company,Wrist Inc. and Kim’s Transportation Ser‐vice. Mr.Gainesleavesto cherish precious memo‐ries, hismother, Yvonne GainesJohnson;fromhis marriagetoSandra Bridges,a daughter,Ranija IndiaGaines; bonus daugh‐ter,GekevaHaymond (Jayson); bonus son, Ger‐ald Cowart,III; grandsons, Rogers Gaines,IV, Reid Alexander Gaines andEzra Gaines; siblings,Vanessa Caliste Swafford (Gregory) Forest, Sr.(Nedra) and Joshua Gaines;brother by way of cousin,Cephas Williams (Yulanda); de‐voted companion, Pavia Broussard;bestfriends MarlonBradford(Angela) and Earnest“Skeeter”Bai‐ley;three nephews, one great nephew anda host of other relativesand friends. In addition to hisfather, Rogers is also preceded in death by hisgrandparents, Willie Maeand Forest Gus‐tave, Sr;son,Rogers,III; sister, Calynthia“Kandi” Gaines; uncle,Forest Monk”Gustave,Jr. and nephew, BrandonSim‐mons. ACelebration ser‐vicehonoringthe life and legacyofthe late Rogers Pedie" Gaines,Jr.,willbe heldatThe City of Love, 8601 Palmetto Street,New Orleans,LA70118, on Sat‐urday,September 13,2025 at10am. IntermentProvi‐dence Memorial Park and Mausoleum,Metairie, LA Visitation9 am in the church.Pleasesignonline guestbook at charbonnet‐funeralhome.com. Char‐bonnetLabat Glapion, Di‐rectors (504)581 4411.

Gibson-Dusuau, Anna Marie

leans, LA on June 25, 1961, asthe twelfthchild of the lateLeona Lumarand Oscar Gibson,Jr.,Anna was awoman of “many hats“ who lovedher family and friendsuncondition‐ally. Shewould always try to find reasonstohavea party to celebratewithher loved ones.Inaddition to her parents, Anna is also precededindeath by her motherand father-in-law, Joyce andMerlinDusuau; siblings, Mark A.,Oscar,III, Debra andLinda (Peedy) Gibson; sister-in-law, Birdie Gibson; brothers-in-law, MarkDusuauand Delroid Braud;nephews,Jermaine and Terry Gibson,Jr. Sur‐vivorsinclude herloving and amazinghusband Matthew Dusuau;children, Manuel(Jenee’)Tero, III, Keianna (Timothy)Barra, Keith (Karena) andKe‐ichelle Gibson;bonus chil‐dren, Demetrice(Antonio) McKoy,DebbieGibsonand Tanya Riley; grandchildren, Chelsea,Dylan andMaver‐ick Tero,LegendRoss, Charlie,Keir, Keirly,Aniya Mekhi,Kayden, Khiand KarterGibson; bonus granddaughter,De’Anna Jackson;bonus greatgranddaughter,Melodi Jackson;siblings; Patrica (Robert)Broadway, Brenda Crew, Paulet Riley, Terry (Alonda)Gibson, Sr Don‐nalynn(Donnell) Leban, Gilda,Cheryl, Kennethand Danny Gibson;bonus sis‐ter,Cynthia (Leslie)Riley; sisters-in-law, Jarita Dusuau-Hunter,Jacinta Braud andJoyce Gibson; brother-in-law, Merlin Dusuau; devotedniece Trichelle Barra, as well as a hostofother relativesand friends.A Home going Cel‐ebrationhonoringthe life ofthe late Anna MarieGib‐son-Dusuauwillbeheldin the Chapel of Charbonnet Labat GlapionFuneral Home, 1615 St.Philip Street,New Orleans, LA 70116 on Saturday,Sep‐tember13, 2025 at 1pm, followedbya Traditional JazzProcession(Second‐line).Interment Mount OlivetCemetery, 4000 Nor‐man MayerAvenue,New Orleans,LA70122. Visita‐tion12noon in thechapel. The Family wouldliketo express aspecial thanks to Ochsner (MainCampus) and Southern GraceHos‐pice. Please sign online guestbook at www.cha rbonnetfuneralhome.com. Charbonnet LabatGlapion, Directors (504) 581-4411.

ShirleyAnn Green was bornJanuary 17, 1954 and madeher heavenly transi‐tionThursday,August28, 2025. Sheissurvivedbyher motherChristine Strowder, and herchildrenAdvil Strowder, KawaneeGreenMartin, andLaKwanzaa Green.Alsocherishingher memoriesare herfoursib‐lings,thirteen grandchil‐dren, thirteen great-grand‐childrenand ahostoffam‐ily andfriends.Shirley will begreeted by herfather RobertStrowder, Sr., grandsonJermaineK.Mar‐tin andformerhusband RobertC.Greene. Relatives and friendsofthe family are invitedtoattend the HonoringofLifeService on Friday, September12, 2025, atDennisFuneralHome, 1812 LouisianaAve., New Orleans,LAat10:00 am Visitationbegins9:00am. Interment: Woodlawn MemorialPark& Cemetery Arrangementsentrusted to DennisFuneralHome. Pleasevisit www.dennism ortuaryservice.comtosign the online guestbook

Anna MarieGibsonDusuau, affectionately known as “Weebot”, passedawaypeacefullyat her home on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, at the ageof64. Born in New Or‐

ClaudiaMarie Rodgers Hudsonwas born on Sep‐tember24,1948 in Fox‐worth,Mississippi to the lateOna PearlRodgers and BeamonOdell Rodgers. On Saturday, September6 2025 Claudiadepartedthis earthly life at theage of 76 She wasa resident of New Orleans,Louisiana.She was proceeded in deathby her parentsOna Pearl Rodgers andBeamonOdell Rodgers,and hersister, PamelaRodgers.She leavestocherish hermem‐ory,her devotedhusband of56years -ClarenceHud‐son,son Eric Hudson Sr (Catina Ruffin),daughters Kalisha Bennett(Lamont), KimaliHudson, herbeloved grandchildren ImariRuffin, EricHudsonJr.,Lamont Bennett Jr., LaylaBennett, and Hayden Hudson,her godchildren Monica Ricks, Jeoffre Duplessisand Am‐briaMcNairand hergrand‐pups, Whiskeyand Max. She is survived by hersib‐lings AnnieMixon (John), BrendaBarnes, Donise Gladden,Elijah“Jack” Rodgers,Satchel Rodgers (Margaret), Paulette Dup‐lessis, JessieRodgers (Ora),LisaMcNair(Julius), Kenneth Rodgers, andVin‐centRodgers (Dedra). Along with ahostof nieces, nephews, extended familyand friendswho will forever hold herintheir hearts. Claudiawas a proud graduate of Marion Central High School,Class of1966. Shespent many hours servingindifferent capacitiesather church Cornerstone United Methodist,where shewas a member forover25 years.She served on the Hospitality Ministry as the Chairperson,Trustee Board,Church ChoirPraise Team& Women’sChoir, Staff-PastorParishRela‐tionshipMinistry, Care Team, Banner Ministry and Silverstones’ Senior Adult Ministry. Claudiawas a memberofEbony Women and ClassicLadiessocial clubs.Overthe yearsClau‐dia worked at Godchaux Departmentstore,the U.S. Naval Base,Saint Mary of The Angels Before &After‐care, andKiddieCareDay‐care. Herlovefor children and helpingothersled her toopenher ownDaycare which shehad fora num‐ber of years. Funeralser‐vices celebratingClaudia’s lifewillbeheldatCorner‐stone United Methodist Church at 5676 BullardAve, New Orleans, La 70128 on Saturday, September13, 2025. Visitation andview‐ing will beginat9:00am. Celebration of Life will begin at 10:00am.Reverend Clifton Conrad will be offi‐ciating.Revered E. Andrew Goffwillperform theeu‐logy.Interment will be at Mt. Olivet Cemetery Arrangement by D.W. RhodesFuneralHome, 3933 WashingtonAve.Please visit www.rhodesfuneral. com to sign theonline guestbook

We come together to honor andcelebrate the lifeofPaulAlanIannazzo, a manwhose kindness, in‐telligence, andgenerosity leftanindelible mark on the hearts of allwho knew him. Born on October17,

1963, in NewOrleans,and passedawaypeacefully on September 5, 2025, in Metairie, LA,leaving be‐hinda legacy of love,care, and professional excel‐lence.Paulwas thecher‐ished sonofthe late Carlo IannazzoJr. andAudrey Bourgeois Iannazzo. He shareda life of love and companionship with his wife, Rebecca Savoie Ian‐nazzo,and wasa beloved brother to SusanNunez (Kenny),Stephen Iannazzo (Beth), andMarkIannazzo (Trina).His familycircleex‐pandedthrough thebonds ofmarriagetoinclude his dearsister-in-law,Kathy Pitre (Roy), andhis late brother-in-law, Dennis Savoie. Paul wasanuncle tohis nieceand nephews, GregNunez,Stefan Pitre, Gavin Pitre, andHannah Iannazzo.Paul'sdedication tohis educationwas ap‐parentfromhis early years.A proudgraduateof Brother Martin High School,hewentontopur‐sue hiscalling in themed‐ical field. He received his nursing degree from the Charity Hospital School of Nursing,furthered hisex‐pertise with aBachelorof Science in Nursingatthe UniversityofSouth Al‐abama,and aMasterof Science at Xavier Univer‐sity. In 1993, he achieved his specialization as a Nurse Anesthetistfromthe Charity Hospital School of Nurse Anesthesiology.For 25years,Paulservedwith distinction as aCertified RegisteredNurse Anes‐thetist at LeonardJ Chabert Hospital,touching countless liveswithhis care. In his finalseven years,hecontinued hisvo‐cationatDoctors’Same Surgery Center,where his passion forhis patients and hiscolleaguesshone brightly. Beyond thehospi‐tal walls, Paul wasa man ofmanypassions. He was anavidhunter,a master of BBQ andgrilling, andhad a lovefor classiccarsand motorcycles that wasonly matched by hislovefor travel. Hisadventurestook him to places far andwide, yet he always remained a steadfastpresenceinthe lives of hisfamilyand friends.Paullooked outfor everyone, atrueembodi‐mentofwhatitmeans to beloving. To know Paul was to know akindhearted soul,anintelligent mind, anda generous spirit alwayswilling to give.As wesay farewelltoPaul AlanIannazzo, mayhis memorybea source of comfort andpride forall who were fortunate enoughtocross pathswith him.The familywould like toalsoexpress theirgrati‐tudetoHeart of Hospice and to Dr.Ware. Relatives and friendsare invitedto attenda visitation at 9:00 amonSaturday, Septem‐ber 13, 2025, at Greenwood FuneralHome, 5200 Canal Blvd. NewOrleans,LA, fol‐lowed by aMassat11:00 am. Intermentwillbeat Greenwood Cemetery.Do‐nations canbemadeto GlioblastomaFoundation inhonor of Paul’s life.We alsoinviteyou to share yourthoughts, memories and condolencesonlineat www.greenwoodfh.com

Howard Joseph Pitre, Sr passedawaypeacefully on Saturday, September6, 2025 in Covington, LA.He was 78. Howard wasborn inAlgiers andwas aresi‐dentofMandeville, LA.He was preceded in deathby his parents, John E. Pitre and NormaDuett Pitre, his granddaughter,Jessica Marie Pitre, hissiblings, JohnPitre,KermitPitre GaryPitre,James Pitre, JaneConstanza,and Char‐leneJarrell. He is survived byhis loving wife of 58 years,Susan Delhommer Pitre,his children,Howard J.Pitre,Jr. (Jacklyn), StevenPitre,Kevin Pitre (Yvette), andhis siblings, RickPitre,Dolores Hill, Maryann Chisesi(Phillip) RitaSchiffman (Jerry)and Barbara Neidhardt. He is alsosurvivedbyhis grand‐children, Howard J. Pitre, III, KaylaPitre,Heather Tovar (Juan),Dorie Cross‐land(BrandonBowman), Katelyn Gibson (Alex) and Timothy Crossland (Shelby)and hisgreatgrandchildren,Elijah, Olivia, Jaxson,Rallie, Allie, Dakota, Emmalynand Au‐drie. He wasa parishioner ofOur Lady of theLake Catholic Church in Man‐deville,LA. Relativesand friends of thefamilyare in‐vited to attend thevisita‐tiononFriday, September 12, 2025 at EJ Fielding Fu‐neral Home,2260 West 21st Avenue, Covington, LA from5:00pmuntil 7:00 pm The Mass of ChristianBur‐ial will be held on Satur‐day,September 13, 2025 at 12:00 pm from OurLadyof the Lake Catholic Church, 312 Lafitte Street,Mandev‐ille, LA.Interment will fol‐low in Westlawn Cemetery and MausoleuminGretna, LA. E.J. Fielding Funeral Homehas been entrusted withfuneral arrangements Pleasesignthe guestbook atwww.ejfieldingfh.com

Norman Plaisance,recently of NewOrleans,was born on March 29, 1924 in a trapper's camp on Bayou DesAmoreux, Lafourche Parish,toPaulineThérèse Aguillard andEtienne Plaisance.Hewas number seven of 16 children. His siblings were Avid, Etienne, Eddie, Mathilde Mary, Raymond,Octave, Antoine, Clothilde,Rose, Ethel, Gabriel, Gillis, Simon, andAlbina, 12 of whom lived into adulthood.

Hudson,Claudia MarieRodgers

Gaines Jr., Rogers 'Pedie'

Plaisance Sr., Norman Antoine

Green, ShirleyAnn

See more DEATHS page

Iannazzo, Paul Alan

Napier on the hotseat again

Latest loss,brutalschedule threaten Floridacoach’s jobearly in season

It’s always hotinGainesville,Florida, but I’ve been told the weather wasunusually stifling during Saturday’sFlorida-South Florida game. Maybe it’sjust Florida in September. Or maybeit’sthe heatradiating off of Billy Napier

CA NG ON

ä Florida at

The fourth-year Florida coach pulled his jobout of the fire last yearwhenhis Gators ended the season with afour-gamewinning streak, starting witha 2716 victory over LSUinThe Swamp and ending with a 33-8 Gasparilla Bowl romp over Tulane. Despite aseason-opening 55-0 romp overrent-a-win Long Island University (who knew LIU even had afootball team?),Napier findshimself backinthe frying pan after Saturday’s18-16 home loss to South Florida. Maybe that loss won’t turn out to look as bad as it does now.USF hasbeaten two ranked teams to start the season(No.25 Boise State as well) and nowshapesupas aprime contender for the Group ofFive’s

BY GUERRYSMITH Contributing writer

Duke wide receiver Andrel Anthony made aspectacular touchdown catch just before halftimeagainst Illinois on Saturday,getting afoot down in front of thebackline with almost no space whilebeing blanketed by coverage It was one of several impressive plays from agroup of receivers coach Jon Sumrall labeledthe best he hadseen in 17 games with Tulane.

Thesame cannotbesaid for theGreen Wave’s unproven wideouts, almost allofwhomare getting their first real opportunityasconsistent pass-catchers. Their improvement as theygain experiencewith new quarterbacks Jake Retzlaff and BrendanSullivanwill be imperative as Tulane (2-0) hostsDuke (1-1) on Saturday (7 p.m., ESPN2).

“We’re stillfindingour stride,”Sumrall said. “We haven’thit our head anywhere near the ceiling yet ” Tulane is deeper at wide receiver than it has been in

ages. Eight have been targeted through twogames, and thelist doesnot include GarrettMmahat, apotential starter whohas been sidelined with adeep thigh bruise. The issue is finding go-to, reliable guys. FloridaAtlantictransferOmari Hayescaughtnine passes in theopeneragainst Northwestern —the most for aWave receiver in 12 years —but none at South Alabama.

Fifth-year senior BryceBohanon set career-highs with five receptions for62yards against the Jaguars but dropped atouchdown pass against the Wildcats. No one else caught morethantwo passesineithergame, and the next highlight-reel play by aTulane wideout will be the first of the season. The longest pass play this season is 20 yards.

The late July arrival of starting quarterback Jake Retzlaff andeven the early June arrival of backup Brendan Sullivan, wholikely will get moresnaps against Duke as

ä See TULANE, page 4C

Saints OT discussesknee injury, Sunday status

BY MATTHEW PARAS Staff writer

Taliese Fuaga wanted to giveit one more series. Just before halftime of Sunday’sloss to the Arizona Cardinals, thepaininthe New Orleans Saints tackle’skneehad become “really sharp.” Butrather thansit,the 23-year-old reiterated to teamofficialsthat he planned to at least testitout after the break. And then they’d decide from there Fuaga played another 18 snaps —the entire third quarter—beforethe pain became unbearable.

againstthe Cardinals. Despite theinjury,Fuaga said he’s optimistic he’ll play Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers. He said he expects to practice Thursday “I’m goingtobegoodthisweek,” Fuaga said.“Just making sureI’m good, making sure …nothing’sinflamed or anything.Justmaking sure it’scalmed down.” Before exiting, Sunday’sperformance hardly was Fuaga’s finest. After playing left tackle as arookie, the Saints this offseason moved Fuaga backtoright tackle —his natural position. But the 23-yearold struggled. According to Pro Football Focus, the lineman allowedfourpressures, one of which resulted in asack on quarterback Spencer Rattler Fuaga admitted he was“in my own head.” Fuaga said at first,he didn’tnoticehehad aggravated his knee because of the adrenaline pumping during live action.But once Fuaga got back to the sideline after adrive,the pain started to kick in. That not only affected Fuagaphysically but alsomentally Fuaga:

‘I know Ican play waybetter’

ä 49ers at Saints NOON SUNDAy,FOX

“I had to pull it,” Fuagasaid. “For sure. I got to be out there, but man, it’salong season ahead.” Fuaga watched the rest of the gamefrom the end of the bench. Days later,he’sstill managing the knee injurythat also caused him to miss Wednesday’spractice. In aconversation with the Times-Picayune, Fuaga said he’sdealing withaninflamed patellar tendon —the sameissue that sidelined him for afew days near the end of August. He aggravated the injury further,hesaid, when he fell on the ground sometime in the second quarter

LSHOF

Taliese Fuaga STAFF FILE PHOTOBy DAVID GRUNFELD

AP PHOTO By ALAN yOUNGBLOOD

Florida head coach Billy Napier calls a timeout during the second half against Long Island on Aug. 30 in Gainesville, Fla. Napier finds himself back in thehot seat after Saturday’sloss to SouthFlorida.

ä See RABALAIS, page 4C

Tulane wide receiver Omari Hayesruns withthe ball during agame against NorthwesternonAug.30atyulman Stadium STAFF PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER

2:05

3:10 p.m. CRAFTSMAN Truck: Qualifying FS2

4:30 p.m. ARCA Menards: 200 FS1

7p.m.CRAFTSMAN Truck: UNOH 200 FS1 COLLEGE FOOTBALL

6p.m. FortValleySt. at Clark Atlanta ESPN2

6:30 p.m. NC State at Wake ForestESPN WOMEN’S COLLEGE SOCCER

5p.m.Stanford at ClemsonACCN

5p.m. Maryland at Penn St. BTN

5p.m. Arkansas at Florida SECN

7p.m. Minnesota at Nebraska BTN

7p.m. South Carolina at Alabama SECN

9p.m. Washington at Southern Cal BTN GOLF

Noon LPGA: QueenCity Golf

3p.m. KornFerry:Open Golf

5p.m. PGA: Procore ChampionshipGolf MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL

6p.m. Kansas City at Cleveland Fox

8:30 p.m.L.A.Angels at Seattle MLBN NFL

7:15 p.m.Washington at Green BayPRIME MEN’S SOCCER

7p.m.ForgeFCatValour FC FS2 TENNIS

1p.m.Guadalajara &Sao Paulo Tennis WNBA

7p.m.Golden State at MinnesotaNBATV

9p.m.Las VegasatLos AngelesNBATV

Parsonsreveres Commanders coachQuinn

Packerspassrusher to face former boss

BY STEVE MEGARGEE AP sportswriter

GREEN BAY,Wis. Green Bay Packers defensiveend Micah Parsons remains grateful to Washington Commanders coach Dan Quinn, even though they’re no longer together in Dallas.

Quinn was the Dallas defensive coordinator duringParsons’ first threeseasonswiththe Cowboys. They became NFC East rivals last year when Washington hired Quinn.

They’re no longer in the same division, but they’re still facing off in the second week of the season on Thursday,when Quinn’s Commanders head to Lambeau FieldtotakeonParsons’Packers

“It’sjust like afather figure, uncle, however you wantto put it,” Parsons said. “That’smyguy andwe’re going to go forever We’re in this for the long run and maybe our journeys might cross again one day.”

Their paths crossThursday, though perhapsnot in theway Quinn would have preferred.

Quinn knows all toowell how Parsons’ presence can be adream foradefensivecoordinator and anightmare for an opposing offense.

“I was surprised that he was traded, and Ihad an absolute blast coaching him,” Quinn said.

“Hebrings out the mad scientist in you to see: ‘All right,what if he was here and how would youfeature him?And what about over here?’”

Parsons is listed as questionable for Thursday’sgame as he dealswith aback issue. He also was listed as questionable before Sunday’sgame and went on to play slightly less than half the Packers’ defensive snaps.

This game could come down to howwell Parsons and therest of the Packers defenders handle Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, who led Washington to an NFC championship game appearance as arookie last season.

Daniels threw for 233 yards and atouchdown while also rushing for 68 yards in Washington’s21-6 season-opening victory over the New York Giants.

Parsons played less than half of Green Bay’ssnaps as he recovers

from aback issue, yet he still had oneofthe Packers’ foursacksin their 27-13 win over the Detroit Lions.

Parsons wasmaking his Packers debut Sunday,just over a week afterGreen Bay acquired him from Dallas and made him thehighest-paid non-quarterback in league history.While withDallas last season,Parsons totaled 41/2 sacks in theCowboys’two matchups with Washington.

“You don’tlet game-wreckers wreckthe game,” Danielssaid.

“You have to keep an eye on him. …Hegot paid alot of money fora reason. He is averygood player.”

Quinn-LaFleurconnection Parsons isn’tthe only member of the Packers withties to Quinn.

Green Bay coach Matt LaFleur was aquarterbacks coach on Quinn’sAtlanta staff from 201516 and helped the Falcons reach the SuperBowl.

“I’m prettycertain Iwouldn’t be standing hereright now if it weren’t for beingwithDQfor those twoyears in Atlanta,” LaFleur said.

“Itjust changed my whole mindset in regardstohow much funyou can have within thebuild-

ä Commanders at Packers. 7:15 P.M.THURSDAy,PRIME

ing yet still get down to business.”

QBsfeelingOK

Packers quarterback Jordan Lovehas said he’sfeeling no limitations after undergoing surgery on his left (non-throwing) thumb last month,and he backed that up by going 16 of 22 for188 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions against the Lions.

Although Daniels appeared on Washington’sinjuryreportwith awrist issue, he practiced this week, saying he had “zero concerns” about it.

Parsons’ fantasyplayer

Packers linebacker Edgerrin Cooper seems readytotake the next step after delivering aproductive rookie season. The 2024 second-round draft pick collected acareer-high12tackles against the Lions.That didn’tsurprise Parsons, who noted that he drafted Cooperinhis fantasyfootball league, whichincludesindividual defensive players.

“They saw me pick up Coop, and they were like, ‘What do you

know? Parsons said. “Because I’m watching practice and I’m seeing everything we’ve got dialed in and whatwe’re putting in, and so Istarted him, andhegoes off and gets me 36 points.”

Commanders’productiverookie

JacoryCroskey-Merritt wasn’t drafteduntilthe seventh round after acollege career that includedstops at Alabama State, New Mexico and Arizona. But the rookie runningbackhas wasted no time making an impact. Croskey-Merritt rushed for 82 yardsand atouchdown on 10 carries Sunday

“You couldfeel he wasreally prepared, really readyand it wasn’ttoo big,” Quinn said. “That was really cool to see.”

Protecting Love

While Parsons’ pursuit of Daniels will get much of the pregame attention, thePackers’ abilityto give Loveenough time to throw also is critical.Sunday marked thefourthtime in Green Bay’s last sevenregular-season games that the Packers didn’tallowa sack. Green Bay’soffensive line could be at less than full strength Thursday

Jets coachGlenn says no messageafter WR cut

BY DENNISWASZAK JR.

AP pro football writer

FLORHAM PARK, N.J.— Xavier Gipson is out of ajob after acostly fumble in the New York Jets’ season-opening loss to Pittsburgh. Coach Aaron Glenn confirmed that the team released the wide receiver,but he insisted Wednesday he wasn’ttryingtosend amessage about accountability —something he has preachedsince being hired in January —bycuttingGipson after one game.

“I want it to be known that decisions that are made are not rash decisions,” Glenn said. “And they’re never based off one incident. So, Iwill keep it at that. Xavier’sareally good player and he’sgoing to play in this league.

“But Ifelt it was time for us to move on in another direction.”

Gipson, in histhirdseasonwith the Jets, was returning akickoff in place of the injured Kene Nwangwu on Sunday when hehad the momentum-changing mistake in New York’s34-32 loss. After the Steelers scored to make it atwopoint game early in thefourth quarter,Gipson fumbled on the ensuing kickoff. Pittsburgh recovered and the Steelers took the lead two plays later on Aaron Rodgers’ second TD throw in a50-second span. Gipson continued to return kicks after the gaffe,whichwas the first turnover of the game.But afterward, Glenn bemoaned the

team’sturnovers anddeclared:

“You will not be on the field with this team if you’regoing to cause us to lose games,ifyou’re going to cause issues likethat.”

He backedthatupWednesday by cuttingGipson, although he reiterated that the decision wasn’t based on that play alone. Gipson has 10 fumbles in 35 career games.

“We’re trying to get the best players on this team that can play arole,”Glenn said. “At this point, Ijustfeltweneededto have achangeatthat spot.It’snot just that as far as accountability. There’saccountability in everything that we do. So, Idon’twant to piniton, ‘OK, he fumbledthe ball, OK, he’s getting (cut).’ “Nah, that’snot it. There’sa number ofthings that ledupto this.”

Nwangwu injured ahamstring early in the game, so Gipson who was New York’s primary punt returner —stepped in on the kickoff return unit. Glenn said Wednesday the injury was still being evaluatedand Nwangwu didn’tpractice. If Nwangwu is forced to miss time, the Jets have afew options, includingIsaiah Williams,who wassignedWednesdayoff Cincinnati’spractice squad. Isaiah Davis, rookie Arian Smithand practice squad members Jamaal Pritchettand Keilan Robinson, who was signed Tuesday,could also be in the mix to return kick-

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTOByADAMHUNGER

Xavier Gipson, right, of the Newyork jets fumbles akickoff returnafter PittsburghSteelers running back Kenneth Gainwellslappedthe ball out of his handsonSunday in East Rutherford,N.J

offs. Williamsand Pritchett also could be optionstoreplace Gipson as the primary punt returner Glenn hasfamiliaritywith Williams, who wassignedbyDetroit —where Glenn was the defensive coordinator —last year as an undrafted free agent out of Illinois. He played in two games for the Lions beforebeing waivedand claimed by theBengals.

Gipsonwas signed as an undrafted free agent in 2023 out of Stephen F. Austin. He won a rosterspotintraining camp that

summer and returned apunt 65 yards for the winning touchdown in overtime to beat Buffalo in the seasonopenerthat year —the gameduringwhich Rodgers went down with atorn Achilles tendon four snaps into his debut forNew York. The 24-year-old Gipsonhad 27 catches for 268 yards and atouchdown with theJets, alongwith73 yards rushing and aTDonnine carries. He averaged 8.9 yards on punt returns and 26 yards on kickoffs.

Astros place PGarcia on 15-dayIL, recall Hernandez

The Houston Astros placed Luis Garcia on the 15-day injured list Wednesday aday after the righthanderexited astartatToronto in thesecond inning because of a sore elbow

AL West-leading Houston also recalledright-hander Nick Hernandez from Triple-A Sugar Land. Garcia gestured to his elbow and motioned to the dugout after throwing an 88 mphpitchtoErnieClement in Tuesday’s 4-3loss. It wasGarcia’s27thpitch of the game.

The Venezuelanpitcherand 2022 World Series champion was making his secondstart of 2025 after sitting out over two years after Tommy John surgery Garcia is 29-19 with a3.53 ERA in 71 games across five big league seasons, all with Houston.

Rizzo to retire with Cubs, become team ambassador

Anthony Rizzo will officially retire as amemberofthe Chicago Cubs on Saturday and will join the organization as team ambassador

The 36-year-old Rizzo spent 10 of his 14 major league seasons with Chicago. The infielderhit .272 with 242 homeruns and 784 RBIsfor the Cubs and helped them winthe World Series in 2016.

Rizzo was athree-time All-Star, four-timeGold Glove winner,onetime Platinum Glove winner and one-timeSilver Slugger award winner forthe Cubs.

He played his rookie season with the SanDiego Padresand spent his finalseasonswith the New York Yankees. He completes his major league career with 1,644 hits, 303 home runs and965 RBIs in 1,727 games played.

Ravens QB Jackson says sorryafter shovingafan

Lamar Jackson apologizedtothe fan he exchanged shoves with during Baltimore’sloss at Buffalo last weekend.

Several Ravens were celebrating behind the corner of the end zone after atouchdown.

Afan reached out and gave receiverDeAndre Hopkins alittle shove to the helmet, thendid the sametoJackson, whopushed him back with twohands to the chest.

“My apologies to him,” Jackson said. “Just chill next time. Youcan talk trash and stuff,but keep your hands to yourself.”

The fanwas ejected by stadium security and has been banned from all NFLgames and events. Coach JohnHarbaugh defended Jacksonearlier this week,saying he had spoken to Jackson about it.

Packers receiverWatson signs contractextension

Green Bay Packers wide receiver ChristianWatsonhas signeda contract extension as he continues his recovery from atorn anterior cruciate ligament that is delaying the start of his season.

The Packers announced the signing Wednesday.Termsweren’t disclosed, but ESPN reported that Watson agreed to aone-year, $13.25 million extension on adeal that would run through 2026. Watson is beginning this season on the physically unable to perform list, which meanshemust missatleast the Packers’ first four games. He tore the ACL in his right knee during the Packers’ 2024 regular-season finale. Watson had 29 catches for 620 yards andtwo touchdowns last year while playing in 15 games.

Four arrested in shooting of FSU linebacker Pritchard

Four people have been arrested in connectiontothe shooting of Florida State linebacker Ethan Pritchard, Florida Department of Law Enforcement commissioner Mark Glass said Wednesday Glass said Pritchard was dropping off family members, an aunt and achild, when he was ambushed outside an apartmentlastmonth and shot in the back of the head on Aug. 31.Pritchard,a 6-foot-2, 224-pound freshmanfromSanford, remains in critical but stable condition at TallahasseeMemorialHospital. GadsdenCounty sheriff Morris Young said authorities believe Pritchard’sshooting was acase of mistaken identity Jayden Bodison, Caron Miller, GermanyAtkins and an unnamed minorhave been arrested in connection with the shooting.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By MIKE ROEMER

Green BayPackers defensiveend Micah Parsons celebrates after agame against the DetroitLions on Sunday in Green Bay, Wis.

Purdy a ‘long shot’ to play vs. Saints

BY MATTHEW PARAS and LUKE JOHNSON Staff writers

The New Orleans Saints could be catching a break when the San Francisco 49ers come to town

49ers quarterback Brock Purdy is a “long shot” to play Sunday with a toe injury and could be out multiple weeks, coach Kyle Shanahan said Wednesday If Purdy is unable to play, then backup Mac Jones would be in line to start.

Notebook

“Brock’s a phenomenal quarterback in this league and when he’s rolling, they’re really hard to defend,” Saints coach Kellen Moore said “And so structurally, they’ll still have a lot of advantages and a lot of opportunities within that system (without Purdy). The capacity and the different things they can do is still not going to be limited.”

Shanahan told Bay Area reporters that Purdy’s toe injury occurred in the second quarter of the team’s 17-13 season-opening win over the Seattle Seahawks.

Purdy, who is 24-13 as a starter in four seasons, is also dealing with a shoulder injury that isn’t considered as severe as the quarterback’s toe injury The 49ers made the Super Bowl with Purdy in his second season and gave the 25-year-old a five-year, $265 million contract extension in the offseason.

Sunday would mark Jones’ first start with the 49ers after joining San Francisco in March.

The Saints were extremely suc-

cessful when they last faced off against Jones in 2023. That day, Jones — then a member of the New England Patriots went 12-of-22 passing for 110 yards and two interceptions before he was benched in a 34-0 shutout.

Jones spent last season with the Jacksonville Jaguars, starting seven games with a 2-5 record.

“He throws a really accurate ball,” Moore said of Jones. “He’s got tremendous timing. I think he’s a really good quarterback in this league, and I think sometimes guys go to a couple of different teams as their careers go, and he’s still had plenty of success in this league. He’ll be a really talented quarterback out there still, no matter what the circumstance is.”

Injury report

The Saints had four players listed as DNPs on the injury report Wednesday, including one who is having season-ending surgery

Moore said safety Julian Blackmon is having surgery after suffering a serious shoulder injury in Sunday’s loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Blackmon reportedly suffered a torn labrum, an injury that bothered him throughout last season as well. In addition to Blackmon not practicing, tackle Taliese Fuaga (knee), guard Trevor Penning (toe) and pass rusher Chase Young (calf) were also absent.

Neither Penning nor Young played over the weekend. Fuaga got hurt and sat the entire fourth quarter of the loss. Running back Velus Jones (knee) and long snapper ZachWood (elbow) were listed as limited. Safety

Jordan Howden was a full participant with an oblique injury With Blackmon sidelined, Moore indicated rookie Jonas Sanker likely would start in his place.

Transactions

The last member of the Saints 2025 draft class cleared waivers and

Expectations still high despite Raiders RB Jeanty’s struggles

BY MARK ANDERSON

AP sports writer

HENDERSON, Nev Few rookies

face higher expectations than Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty, and there was great anticipation about his NFL debut on Sunday

Then it actually happened and Jeanty rushed for just 38 yards on 19 carries in Las Vegas’ 20-13 victory over New England.

Not the kind of numbers he produced last season at Boise State when Jeanty led the nation with 2,601 yards and 29 touchdowns to become the runner-up for the Heisman Trophy Also not the kind of numbers expected of the sixth pick in the draft, but it wasn’t all Jeanty’s fault.

He had little help from his offensive line, and Jeanty gained 44 yards after contact, according to Pro Football Focus. Coach Pete Carroll said Jeanty and the line will need time to establish chemistry to help him break through the initial defense to get to the second level where he can roam in the open field.

“That takes some time, and the guys haven’t played very

SAINTS

Continued from page 1C

“I got to play way better,” Fuaga said. “I know I can play way better.” The Saints need it. Beyond investing a first-round pick on him last year, New Orleans already was shorthanded on the offensive line with left guard Trevor Penning having been sidelined over the last month with turf toe. Penning, too, missed Wednesday’s practice. The Saints saw last year how devastating several injuries upfront can be, and they obviously want to avoid a repeat scenario.

But Fuaga said he’s committed to addressing the issue He said he has to figure out a “new routine” for managing the injury, similar to how he spent most of his rookie season rehabbing a back injury that occurred in training camp.

“This year (I’ve) just got to have a routine for my knees,” Fuaga said. “Obviously, a routine I’m probably going to keep for the rest of my career, just to make sure I never have these problems again.

“We have to kick, we have to run, all based off the knee for (the) O-line. O-line(men) always have knee injuries, so I’ve got to stay on top of it.” As a franchise, the Saints know that reality better than most Just last week, former left tackle Ter-

much together in real games,”

Carroll said. “The (preseason) games helped us some, the practice against the Niners helped us some, but these games will help us get better.”

Carroll said much of the blame for Jeanty’s slow start also goes on the back himself.

“He was jacked up and he would tell you, I would think, that he wished he would have been a little more patient on some reads and things like that,” Carroll said “He didn’t look like that in preseason. This game, being called on to (carry) the ball 19 times, it was a little bit different for him. He’ll play way better He’ll see things more clearly.”

Jeanty put together a promising training camp and even was featured in the passing game. That wasn’t the case against the Patriots when he caught two passes for 2 yards.

Even if this wasn’t the kind of first game that Jeanty hoped for, it wasn’t a wasted performance, either

He produced his first touchdown on a play that was reminiscent of his Boise State days when last season he gained 1,970 yards after contact. Jeanty busted his

way into the end zone on a 3-yard run in the third quarter to put the Raiders ahead for good at 14-10.

“A lot of emotions,” Jeanty said of scoring. “But staying levelheaded.” He also came through when the Raiders were trying to expand their seven-point lead early in the fourth quarter Las Vegas faced third and 1 at its 21-yard line, and a three-andout likely would have given the Patriots excellent field position and a chance to tie the game Jeanty took the handoff and ran off right guard for a 4-yard gain. The Raiders wound up moving into field goal range to make it a two-possession lead that proved invaluable later when the Patriots tried to rally

The Raiders also put the ball in Jeanty’s hands when taking possession with 4:48 left, giving him

five carries in six plays. He lost 5 yards, but Las Vegas thanks mostly to a 36-yard pass from Geno Smith to Dont’e Thornton — ran three minutes off the clock.

“Tough running by Ashton,” Smith said. “It’s hard to do that in a four-minute situation when the whole stadium knows we’re running the ball.”

“This year, (I’ve) just got to have a routine for my knees. Obviously, a routine I’m probably going to keep for the rest of my career, just to make sure I never have these problems again.”

TALIESE FUAGA, Saints offensive tackle

ron Armstead said he needs a knee replacement at age 34. Armstead revealed he was told that news in Week 1 of last season, but he still managed to play 15 games

for the Miami Dolphins. Armstead, who retired this offseason, dealt with knee problems for the majority of his 12-year career, including his nine with the Saints. Longtime Saints right tackle Ryan Ramczyk, who missed the entire 2024 season, also retired in the offseason because of a chronic knee injury “Those guys, they’re ballers,” Fuaga said. “But I know they had knee problems also. I don’t want to be kind of that guy to go through that kind of stuff.”

Email Matthew Paras at matt paras@theadvocate.com

made it back to the practice squad.

The Saints waived Fadil Diggs earlier this week after signing him to the active roster prior to the season opener Diggs gave the Saints an additional pass rusher to help make up for the loss of Young, who missed the game

Patrick lands on IR; Bengals turn to right guard Risner

BY CHARLIE GOLDSMITH Associated Press

CINCINNATI With Bengals starting right guard Lucas Patrick now on injured reserve, offensive coordinator Dan Pitcher said the team is ready for Dalton Risner to fill that position.

Risner was a free agent during training camp and signed with the team on Aug. 28. He then impressed the coaching staff with the way he was ready to go when Patrick, a former Saints lineman, injured his calf early in Sunday’s 1716 win over the Cleveland Browns.

Cincinnati looks to go 2-0 for the first time since 2018 when it hosts the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday

“It’s unfortunate that we’re having to call on our depth as soon as we are, but it’s certainly nice to have a guys that knows what it’s supposed to look like,” Pitcher said. “He has been in the book and done a remarkable job of picking everything up as quickly as he’s picked it up. Good communicator Smart. I really have very few concerns about getting him up and running.”

Patrick isn’t eligible to return for at least four weeks, and coach Zac Taylor said the player’s timeline to return is “right around that time frame.” Risner started for a Minnesota Vikings team that made the postseason last year He brings experience to the Bengals’ offensive line, and he was able to fill the role quickly despite limited practice time.

“Whether it’s the blue collar feel, the family feel, the organization feels tight-knit, loyal, and it’s an organization that wins football games, it’s just somewhere you want to be,” Risner said. “I’m really grateful to be here. I have a quote, ‘When you’re grateful for what you have, you have everything you need.’ I’m really grateful to be here I don’t need a thing more.”

The Bengals had several options to replace Patrick on Sunday, including players with much more experience in Cincinnati. Cody Ford has been with the team since 2023, and rookie Jalen Rivers received a significant amount of firstteam reps at right guard in training camp.

Risner, who has started in 81 NFL games, was the pick of the Bengals’ coaching staff.

“Dalton has come in and presented very well,” Pitcher said. “It’s just integrating him into our schemes and getting him up to speed. He’s put every bit of time and effort he can to get up on the verbiage It all makes sense to him I feel very comfortable if he had to go in there he would help us.”

That experience is helpful for a Bengals team whose left guard, rookie Dylan Fairchild, had an upand-down NFL debut.

“Once you start playing real football, that’s different than anything you’ve done through the preseason,” Pitcher said. “He’s taken every snap at left guard since he walked in the door, so our goal is to alleviate some of that. We’re going to continue to press him and have a high expectation for him and I’m confident he’ll fulfill those expectations.”

While the Bengals have a rookie at left guard and a new piece at right guard, the team benefits from having captain Ted Karras at center Pitcher said Karras has been an important piece contributing to helping the new linemen get up to speed.

Last week, the Bengals rewarded Karras with a one-year contract extension.

“Ted’s huge for the team because of his leadership and his toughness and everything that comes with Ted,” Pitcher said. “Specific to that position group, he’s critical from a communications standpoint and leadership standpoint and making sure everyone is on the same page.”

STAFF FILE PHOTO By DAVID GRUNFELD

Saints offensive tackle Taliese Fuaga, left, and defensive end Cam Jordan run a drill on July 23 at training camp in Metairie.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JOHN FROSCHAUER

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy looks to pass against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday in Seattle. San Francisco coach Kyle Shanahan said Wednesday that Purdy is a ‘long

the Saints.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By GARy MCCULLOUGH Minnesota Vikings guard Dalton Risner walks the sideline before a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars on Nov. 10 in Jacksonville, Fla.

Transfersshining allacrossSEC

BY DAVE SKRETTA AP sportswriter

COLUMBIA, Mo. Penn State transferBeauPribula droppedback to throw,slung apasstoformer Mississippi State wide receiver Kevin ColemanJr. and watched him prance into the end zone for a touchdown —all to thedelight of Missouri fans. Especially given it came in avictory over hated rival Kansas.

Pribula woundup30of 39 for 343 yards and three touchdowns in the 42-31 victory on Saturday Coleman had10catchesfor 126 yards and that touchdown. Oh, andrunning back AhmadHardy —formerly of Louisiana-Monroe —added 112 yards rushing and a touchdownofhis own in the latest impressive performance by coach Eli Drinkwitz’scast of transfer additions.

“He stayed poised, he stayed calm —that’sthe captain on our team,” ColemansaidofPribula,the biggest name of the bunch. “That’s theone we look up to as ateam to count on. And when you see that guy staying calm, we’vegot no worries.”

It may as well havebeen theSenior Bowl or the East-WestShrine Game, the way all those players from disparateschools came together on Saturday.But in truth, it was just another day in college football where, like most leagues, high-profile transfers are helping teams such as Missourithrive even after losing many keyplayers to graduation and the draft Pribula is currently second in the SEC in passing to Oklahoma’sJohn Mateer,who arrived in Norman after three years at Washington State, and immediately injected some firepower into defensiveminded coach Brent Venables’ offense.

Joey Aguilar has Tennesseeoff to a flying start after arriving from Appalachian State; he has thrown for 535 yards and five scoreswithout an interception in his first two games. Over at Auburn, ex-Oklahoma quarterback Jackson Arnold completed nearly 78%ofhis

TULANE

Continued from page1C

he recovers from an ankle injury, have forced the receivers to get familiar with the nuances of both in limited time.

“With Brendan in and out and having allthe reps throughsummer,they are trying to learn Jake alittle bit,” offensive coordinator Joe Craddock said. “The throwing style is alittle bit different.The ball comes out alittle bit differently.” Sumrall agreed.

“There’sa lot to that timing component that can’tbeunderstated, quite honestly,” he said. “I likethe receiver group. They’ve justgot to continue to be detailed andtake steps forward.” Bohanon didexactly that against South Alabama. Used primarily as adownfieldblocking specialist a year ago, he sparked atouchdown drive with two quick catches netting27yards after Tulane fell behind 14-0. His 16-yarder put the Wave in field goal range for a24-14 lead beforehalftime. He broke atackle to move thechains on athird-down catch in the fourth quarter, setting up Zuberi Mobley’s28-yard touchdown run.

RABALAIS

Continued from page1C

CFP berth. But Florida was an 181/2-point favorite in that game, ranked 13th, and according to Napier, has the best roster of his fouryear tenure with an uber-talented quarterback and an established culture. It sounds alot like what Brian Kelly has been saying about his LSU program. Strikingly so. The major difference is Kelly is now 31-11 at LSU while Napier is 20-20 at Florida. And BK isn’t trying to pull his team out of the ditch after aloss to big underdog Louisiana Tech but instead making acourse correction after asluggish 23-7 victory Kelly and Napier have been linked because their hirings came during the same cycle. Kelly piled up more wins than any coach in Notre Dame history (officially 113) while Napier left UL after four seasons with the best winning percentage (.769) of anyone to coach there more than one season. By every indication LSU did not seriously consider Napier,who

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTOByLIZ RyMAREV

Missouri quarterbackBeau Pribula runs withthe ball for atouchdownagainst Central Arkansas in Columbia Mo., on Aug. 28.

passeswith three touchdowns and no picks in wins over Baylor and Ball State.

Thoseare just the transfer quarterbacks,too. There are abunchofnew arrivalsplaying big roles at other positions already this season. Hardy is the SEC’ssecond-leading rusher behind Kewan Lacy, whotransferredfrom Missouri.

Lacy had 28 carries for Mississippi andgained 138 yards in a30-23 win over Kentucky in its conference opener; he isaveraging 4.9 yards percarry Not abad average. But consider Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr., who is averaging more than 10 yards on his first 18 attemptsinhelpingthe Razorbacks to a2-0 start. He was at Buffalotwo years agoand New

Mexico Statelastyear

Dante DowdellofKentuckyis likewise on his third team in three years,after spending aseason each at Oregon andNebraska. He has run for 185 yards and atouchdown through his first two games withthe Wildcats. The SEC’sleading wide receiver, Harrison Wallace III of Ole Miss, spent last season at Penn State. TexasA&M widereceiver Mario Craverhas 13 catchesfor 236 yards andthreescores, one year after catching just 17 for368 yards at Mississippi State.

In fact,the SEC’stop sevenwide receiversinyardagethrough Week 2began their careers at another school. Whenyou combine atop QB transfer with marqueerunning backs and wide receivers —just

“I just wanttodowhatever my role is,” Bohanon said. “Last year Iwanted to bethe best blocker on the team. If we need crunch-time plays, I’m that guytodoit. Iwant to be the receiver they need me to be to help us win.”

This Saturday could be Shazz

was hired byFlorida two days before LSU announced Kelly’sarrival on Dec.1,2021.Napier didn’t fitthe splashhirethat has become LSU athletic director ScottWoodward’strademark. Therealso was the impressionLSU never would hire aULcoachnomatter how much he won. The Gators have had their moments under Napier —Florida’s wins last season over LSU and Tulane are exhibitsAand B—but they’vealsohad plenty of blunders. Not just aplayer running the wrongroute resulting in an interception or ablown coverage. We’retalkingaboutthe Gators offense and field goal unit being on the field at the same time in a2023 game against Arkansas, leading to apenalty, missed field goal and eventual overtime loss to the Razorbacks. Or the time earlier that season against Utah when two Gators wore the same number on the field at the same time, apenalty that led to aUtes’ first down andeventual touchdown. Floridaperennially hasbeen mistake-prone under Napier,and lately his utilization of quarterback DJ Lagway in his offensivesystem has come under heightened scrutiny for its predictable play calling.

Preston’s turn. Aformer four-star signee who initially signed at Alabama withgood size (6 foot,206 pounds) andspeed,hewas the Wave’stop receiver in preseason camp but hasbeen limitedtotwo catches for 18 yards. The coaches thought theyhad dialedupa16-

like Drinkwitz has done at Missouri this season —the result is predictable. The Tigers rolled through CentralArkansas to begin the season, then took care of Kansas in an emotionally charged rivalry game to break intothe AP Top25this week.

Forget aboutrebuildinginthe wake of quarterbackBrady Cook’s graduationand wide receiver LutherBurden III’sentry in the NFL draft. Not these days. Just like other schools,the Tigers simply used the transferportal to reload. “Obviously,Kevin Coleman made somebig-time catches and continually does that. But, you know,nopanic. Ithink Beauisreally cool,calm, collected,” Drinkwitz said after the win over Kansas, and ahead of Saturday’sgameagainst Louisiana-Lafayette.

yard touchdown for him against South Alabama, but he ran the wrong route as aRetzlaff pass sailed behindhim

“The ball will eventually find him,” Craddock said. “It’snot like we’renot trying to get him the ball.”

Kentucky transfer Anthony Brown-Stephens gotexactly 9 yards on asideline route to convert athird and 9onTulane’s last touchdown driveagainst South Alabama, showing good awareness. Redshirt freshman Zycarl Lewis converted afourth down against Northwestern with agrab in traffic.

Those plays have been the exception rather than thenorm. Deep threat Jimmy Calloway,an explosive Louisville transfer who tweaked ahamstring in camp, is waitingfor his firstcatch.Promising freshmanOliverMitchell from Edna Karr has one reception for4 yards.

“We’re still working through who’sgoing to elevate being the guys thatmakethe plays,”Sumrall said.“Youcan tell me Shazz, ABS(Brown-Stephens) or Jimmy Calloway is goingtohave abig game, and it wouldn’tsurprise me. We have alot of guys with the ability to rise to that occasion.”

CMoore, TE Green uncertain to play vs. Gators

BY REED DARCEY Staff writer

LSU listed center Braelin Moore and tight end Trey’Dez Green as questionabletoplaySaturday against Florida on its first availability report of the week. Moore injured hisankleonthe first offensive snap of the No. 3 Tigers’ Week 2win over Louisiana Tech.MultiplereportssaidSundaythathehad suffered ahighankle sprain, but Kelly indicated on Monday that MRI imaging had shown aless severe ankle injury Moore practiced on Tuesday,Kelly said. Green suffered asprainedMCL against the Bulldogs whenadefender rolledontohis right leg during aplayinthe fourth quarter He satthe rest of thegame, then walked off the field on crutches with abrace on his injured knee.

Sources with knowledge of the situation confirmed Sunday that the injury was expected to sideline Green formultiple weeks, though Kelly did not rule the sophomore tight endout of the game against theGators when he updated his status Monday

“Those areinjuries that you can come back from,” Kelly said, “and rather quickly.”

Moore, aVirginia Tech transfer, was named theSEC’soffensive lineman of theweek after LSU beat No. 12 Clemson on the road in Week 1. DJ Chester —the redshirt sophomore who started 12 games at center last season —snapped for quarterback Garrett Nussmeier in Moore’splace against Louisiana Tech. On 49 pass-blocking reps, according to Pro Football Focus, he did not allow asingle pressure. “Tohave aguy like (Chester) is invaluable, right?” Kelly said. “He didn’t take aton of snapsthe last couple of weeks at center.Wehad him out at left tackle. He’splayed guard. He’s so valuable,and he went in there andhedid aheck of ajob.”

Green is one of Nussmeier’sfavorite red-zone targets. In the win over Clemson, the pair connected on an 8-yard score that put LSU ahead 17-10.

If Green misses time,thentight ends Bauer Sharp and Donovan Green would stepinto larger roles. Sharp,anOklahoma transfer, played 21 moresnaps than Trey’Dez Green against Clemson Donovan Green is aredshirt junior whotransferred to LSU from Texas A&M in the offseason.

LSUalso listed wide receiver Destyn Hill(fractured hand) as questionable while ruling out freshman defensive tackle Zion Williams.

Star Florida defensive lineman Caleb Banks (lower leg) was not listedonFlorida’s availability report, which means he will make his season debut Saturday in Tiger Stadium.Last year in the Gators’ win over LSU, the6-foot-6, 330-pound lineman recordeda sack and aforced fumble. WilsonAlexandercontributed to this report.

The Gators’ remaining schedule is something that would make the Buffalo Bills say,“Wait, this is too much.” Eight of Florida’s10opponentsare ranked. Fiveofthem LSU, Miami, Georgia, Texas and Florida State —are in theAPtop 10. Oneofthe two unranked foes is Mississippi State, which just upset No. 12 Arizona State. Florida boosters reportedly had put together the money required to pay Napier’sthen-$26 million buyout early last season.Napierheld on and turned the2024 campaign around. Butit’shard to see apath through this remaining gauntletfor Napier to survive this time. That said, Florida athletic director ScottStricklin stuck with Napier much longer than it seemed realisticallypossible last season, and Florida is still without apermanentpresident to sign off on

Napier’sfate. Before we conclude,let us say onething in Napier’sdefense: Maybe the problemisFlorida itself. SinceUrban Meyer steppeddownin2010, ending an uber-successful six-year tenure thatincludedtwo national championships, Florida haschurned through coach aftercoach.Will Muschamp, JimMcElwain, Dan Mullenand nowprobably Napier, none of themlasted more thanfourseasonsinThe Swamp. Combined, from2011-24, they have ledthe Gators to zero SEC championships, just four 10-plus win seasonsand five losing campaigns. There is no reason whyFlorida shouldn’tperennially be among the top tier of SEC programs. It has money,isanexcellent school academically and mostimportantly sits in the middle of one of the mosttalent-rich football states in America. Ultimately,Florida’sstruggles may be an indictment of both Napier and the school. There’sone big difference: The school isn’tgoing anywhere. For more LSUsports updates, signupfor ournewsletter at theadvocate.com/lsunewsletter

STAFF FILEPHOTO By HILARy SCHEINUK

Florida coach Billy Napier,left, speaks withLSU coach Brian Kellybefore kickoff on Nov. 16 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Fla

STAFF FILEPHOTO By SCOTT THRELKELD Memphis defensiveback Kourtlan Marsh breaks up apass intended for Tulane wide receiverBryce Bohanon during the second half of their game on Nov. 28 at yulman Stadium

Clippers forward KawhiLeonard and sustainability

that filedfor bankruptcy earlier this year —broke

Silver:NBA won’trushto judgmentinLeonard probe

BY TIM REYNOLDS AP basketball writer

NEW YORK The NBA will not rush to any judgment in its probe of whether abusiness relationship betweenKawhi Leonardand aCalifornia company was legitimateor merely away for the LosAngeles Clippers to circumvent salary-cap rules, commissioner Adam Silver said Wednesday Silver spoke after aboardof governors meeting in New York —one that Clippers owner Steve Ballmer attended —and saidthe league will wait to see the report from theoutside firm it hashired to run its investigation before taking the next steps.

“We’re constantly learning in the league office and again, I’m reserving judgment because Idon’tknow the facts here,” Silver said. “I don’t know what Kawhi was paid. Idon’t know what he did or didn’tdo. We’ll leave all that for the investigation.”

The NBA opened its investigation last week into whether a$28 millionendorsement contract between Leonard and sustainability

services company Aspiration Fund Adviser,LLC —one that filed for bankruptcy earlier this year broke league rules, followingareport by journalist Pablo Torre.

TheClippershavestrongly denied that any rules were brokenand said they welcomed the league’sinvestigation.

“I think as amatter of fundamental fairness,I would be reluctant to act ifthere was amere appearanceofimpropriety,” Silver said “I thinkthe goal of afull investigation is to find if there really was impropriety. Iwould want anybody elsein the situation that Mr Ballmer is in now or Kawhi Leonard for that matter,tobetreated thesame way Iwould wanttobe treated if peoplewere making allegations against me.”

Ballmer made a$50 million investment in Aspiration, and the companyand the team announced a$300 million partnership in September 2021. That was about a monthafter Leonard signed afouryear, $176 million extension with the Clippers.

The team ended its relationship

with Aspirationafter twoyears, saying thecontract was in default.

Aspiration’sco-founder,Joseph Sanberg,agreed to pleadguilty last month after facing federal charges of wire fraud. Prosecutors saidhedefrauded investorsand lenders out of $248 million,adding that“Aspiration’s financial statements were inaccurate and reflected much higher revenue than the company in fact received.”

“I’m abig believerindue processand fairness and you need to nowlet theinvestigation run its course,” Silver said, adding that he has“very broad powers” when determining penalties if wrongdoing was found.

The league —which previously looked into claims that Leonard’s representatives asked for certain things thatwould be considered cap circumventions when he was a free agentseveral years ago— can issue stiffpenalties if cap rules are found to have been broken by a team, including a fine of up to $7.5 million, thevoiding of contracts and the forfeiture of future draft picks.

RyderCup captainDonaldhoping organizers readyfor Trump’spresence

By The Associated Press

VIRGINIA WATER, England European captain Luke Donald is relaxed about the prospectofPresident Donald Trump attendingthe upcoming Ryder Cup andsaidhe hopes there isn’tarepeat of the delays at the U.S. Open tennis tournament caused by his presence. Trump, agolf fanatic, hassaid he will be at Bethpage BlackinNew York on Sept. 26, for the start of three-day matches between the United States and Europe.

“I guess he will want to be onthe first tee,” Donald said Wednesday “Again, we understand that he’s comingand both teams will be

ready for that.” Trump attended the men’s final at the U.S. Open between Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner on Sundayand extra security caused by his visit led to long linesand ahalfhour delay to the start of play No announcement preceded Trump’sappearance at Flushing Meadows, so at least the PGA of America —the organizer of this year’sRyder Cup —has more of a head start

“The PGA of America is obviouslyorganizing this. There was some delays at the tennis —I think you’re probably all aware of that buthopefully they havelearntfrom that,” said Donald, who was speaking

at anews conference at theBMW PGAChampionship at Wentworth

“It’s abig process, obviously,to getapresident to come to an event. There’sa lotofsecurity andeverything. It takes some work, I’m sure. The PGA of America’s job is to makesure it’s seamless, and he wants to be there to probably greet theplayers, andI think the crowd is probably going to be loud no matter what.”

During his first term as president, Trumpshowed up about an hour after the final match was underway Sundayatthe Presidents Cup in New Jersey in 2017. Trump later presented the trophy to the winning American squad.

Rummel,U-High meet forRound 4, this time in Dome

BY CHRISTOPHER DABE Staff writer

Rummeland University High will face each otherfor the fourth yearinarow when theteams meet Friday Rummel wonthe other three meetings by close scores of 17-14 in 2022,20-17 in 2023 and13-7in 2024.

“So it seemstobethat it’sgoing to be another competitive game,” Rummel coach Nick Monica said. Thegamealso will be played in alarger setting than the other three matchups.

Rummel (0-1) and U-High (1-0) will play at theCaesars Superdome as part of adoubleheader that will include ashowdown between Edna Karr andAmerican Heritage (Plantation, Fla.).

The decision by Rummel to move thegamefrom Joe Yenni Stadium in Metairie —the originalsite forthe game —took some lengthy consideration.

The Raiders don’talways get Friday gamesbooked in their usual home stadium, so the school hadtodecide if the chance to play in the Dome was worth the experience.

“Wehad ahome gameatYenni on Fridaynight, whichisvery rare for us, so we were not necessarily for this at the beginning,” Monicasaid. “But as this grew intosomething, we said this is something we probablyneed to be apart of. Karrhas been great as far as putting together and organizing it.”

Karr andAmerican Heritage tried to schedule games against each other multiple other times in recent seasons but had those plans thwarted by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and by Hurricane Ida in 2021. Now finally with agame on the docket forFriday,Karr explored theideaofputting the game between the nationally ranked programs on abigger stage inside theDome. But to do so, it needed another high-profile game so the event could sell enough tickets to cover Dome rental costs.

“I think they were looking for another competitive gamethat fans would like to see, so Karr reached out,” Monica said as he noted how this would be the fourth consecutive season for Rummel to face U-High, and “the first threewereall decided by one possession.”

Lastyear,Rummelscored two touchdowns in thesecond quarter and kept the lead while not allowing a first downfor the entire second half

In 2023, Rummel rallied from 10 points down in the fourth quarterand finishedwitha nine-play drive thatincludedthreekneeldowns to burn the final four minutes on the clock.

In 2022, Rummel scored the winningtouchdown witha79yardcatch and runwith about twominutes remaining.

“We’re expecting aphysical game,” U-High coach Andy Martin said. “Rummel is so well coached. They don’thurt themselves. We’ve got to play well to beat them. We’reexpecting a tight game, as usual.”

U-High opened the season with aconvincing 49-8 victory against Woodlawn-Baton Rouge. The Cubs areled by runningbacks Sage Ingram and Corbin Odell, who combined for 208 yards and three touchdowns in the seasonopening win.

ForRummel, Jaden Terrance rushed for141 yards and atouchdown in the 27-26 loss at Lafayette Christian, with two other touchdowns by Coryan Hawkins (rushing) and Micah Green (receiving).

“This is the most disappointing thing about last week, aclose game,” Monica said. “You want to think youhavethe tougherteam on the fieldevery time youplay when you get to that fourth quarter —you can find away to win, and we didn’tdothat last week.”

LSUcommitment Lamar Brown is aleading player for U-High, the No. 1defensive lineman in thecountry forthe 2026 recruiting class whoplays primarily on theoffensive line for the Cubs.

“He plays very littledefense for us, but it just speakstohis character and his unselfishness,” Martinsaid.“Where does the team need him and that’swhere it needs him the most, is the offensive line. He’ll play somedefense too, but he really anchors that offensive line.”

Rummelplayedlastseason in the Dome and beat Lafayette ChristianinWeek 1. The game was moved from The Shrine on Airline because of inclement weather

“The goal is to be here at the end of the season,not thebeginning,” Monica said. “While this will be agreat experience, there arealso distractions that come with it. We have to makesure we stay focused on the game. That is theimportantpart. We can’t worry about the hoopla.”

Contact ChristopherDabe at cdabe@theadvocate.com

Continued from page1C

WNBA All-Star in a15-season pro career that included WNBA Finals MVP honors as she ledthe Minnesota Lynx to league crowns in 2015 and 2017. Fowles was chosen as one of the WNBA’s Top25Players of AllTimein2021,andsheenteredtheNaismith MemorialBasketball Hall of Fame last weekend and the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in June.

Horn was afour-time ProBowl receiver (2000-02, 2004) and fan favorite in sevenseasons (200006)with the New Orleans Saints during a12-year NFL career McClure,aBatonRougenativeand two-sport all-stater at Central High School,wasanAll-SoutheasternConferenceand All-American center for LSU before 14 NFL seasons with the AtlantaFalcons.Heearnedaplacein the Falcons Ring of Honor Williams, adefensivetackle from Wossman High School in his hometown of Monroe, reached three straight ProBowls (2006-08) while with the Minnesota Vikings in a14-season career that started

with the Buffalo Bills. Lucroy starred for three yearsat catcher for the UL Ragin’ Cajuns and was a2007 third-round MLB Draft pick by Milwaukee, where he earned apair of National League All-StarGame appearances (2014, 2016) and was fourth invotingfor the 2014 NL MVP. Bradywon 402 games in 25 seasons of college basketball coaching at Samford, LSU and Arkansas State. He had 190 victories in 10

seasonswith theTigers, including threeSEC regular-season championships (2000, 2005, 2006) and arun to the 2006 NCAAFinal Four That year’sMarch Madness also wasacareer highlight for Bossier City native McConathy,whose 14th-seeded Demons stunned No. 3seed andBig TenConference champion Iowa in one of three NCAAtourney trips (two wins) for Northwestern State. The former Louisiana Tech star guardwon a state-record 682 gamesasacollege coach in 16 seasons at Bossier Parish CommunityCollege and 23 at Northwestern State. Strother is the nation’ssecondwinningest high school girlsbasketball coach, retiring in 2023 with a1,235-395(.758) record that includes21trips to the state semifinals and11championship game appearances,collecting five LHSAA titles for Florien High in southern Sabine Parish. The newclass will be enshrined June 25-27atthe Hall of Fame’s home in Natchitoches to culminate the67thinduction celebration Ticket information for the seven events over three days is available at LaSportsHall.com.

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By MARK J. TERRILL

The NBAopened an investigation last week into whether a$28 millionendorsement contractbetween Los Angeles

services companyAspiration Fund Adviser,LLC one

league rules, followinga reportbyjournalist Pablo Torre.

Don’toverthink replacingthe fence

Dear Miss Manners: My husband andIbought our currenthome about four years ago, although the house itself is about 20 years old. The backyard is surrounded by astandard woodenfence.

The condition of the wood suggests the fence has been there nearly as long as the house, and we think it desperately needs to be replaced. Twoofour neighbors have fences that adjoin ours and which, based on condition, were builtaround the same time.

will now be mixed with their well-worn ones surrounding their yards

Martin

MANNERS

Even though it’sour right to replaceour fence, do we owe any consideration to the neighbors? After all, our shiny new fence

By The Associated Press

Idon’twant to imply that I’m asking their permission, because we intend to replace it regardless. But is it worth giving them a heads-up that we’re having thework done? Is there a way to suggest thepossibility of them also having their fences replaced without it sounding insulting?

Iassume that having theirs replaced at the same time, by the same company, might save a little money —asthe workers and materials will already be on site —but I’m notsure if this is worth bringing up. We havegood rela-

TODAYINHISTORY

MLB careerhits record with his 4,192ndhit.

Today is Thursday,Sept. 11, the 254th day of 2025.There are 111 days left in the year

Todayinhistory:

On Sept. 11, 2001, nearly 3,000 people were killed as 19 al-Qaida hijackers seized control of four jetliners, sending two of the planes into New York’sWorld Trade Center,one into thePentagon in Arlington, Virginia, and the fourth into a field in western Pennsylvania. It remains the deadliest terrorattack in history

Also on this date:

In 1789, Alexander Hamilton was appointed the firstU.S. Secretaryofthe Treasury In 1814, an American fleet scored adecisive victory over the British in the Battle of Lake Champlain in theWar of 1812.

In 1936, Boulder Dam —later renamed the Hoover Dam began operation as President Franklin D. Rooseveltpressed abutton in Washington to signal the startup of the dam’s first hydroelectric generator In 1941, groundbreaking took place for the Pentagon.

In 1954, the Miss America pageant made its network TV debut on ABC.

In 1973, Chilean President Salvador Allende died during a violent military coup led byGeneral Augusto Pinochet.

In 1985, Pete Roseofthe Cincinnati Reds broke Ty Cobb’s

In 2008, presidential candidates John McCain andBarack Obamaput aside politics as they visited groundzerotogether on the anniversary of 9/11 to honor its victims.

In 2012, amob armed with guns andgrenades launched a fiery nightlongattack on aU.S. diplomatic outpostand aCIA annex in Benghazi, Libya, killing U.S. Ambassador Chris Stevens andthreeother Americans.

In 2023, over 4,000 people died andthousands more were missing after heavy rain from Mediterranean Storm Daniel caused two damstocollapse, flooding thecity of Derna, Libya.

Today’sbirthdays: Composer Arvo Pärt is 90.Film director BrianDe Palma is 85. Singer-actor-dancer Lola Falana is 83. Musician MickeyHartis82. GuitaristLeo Kottkeis80. Actor Amy Madigan is 75. RockmusicianTommy Shaw(Styx) is 72.Sportscaster Lesley Visseris72. Actor Scott Patterson is 67. Actor/director Roxann Dawsonis67. Actor John Hawkes is 66. Actor Virginia Madsen is 64.Musician-composer Moby is 60. Singer Harry ConnickJr. is 58. Actor Taraji P. Henson is 55.Rapper Ludacris is 48. Football Hall of Famer Ed Reedis47. Country singer CharlesKelley(Lady A) is 44. Actor ElizabethHenstridge is 38. Actor TylerHoechlinis38.

ChickenChasseur (Chicken with Mushrooms and Wine) Recipe by Linda Gassenheimer.Makes2

¼cup fat-free, no-salt-added chicken broth

1tablespoon tomato paste

2tablespoonsfreshly chopped parsley (optional) Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1packagemicrowaveable brown rice to make1½-cups cooked rice

Heat ½tablespoon olive oilin alarge skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken thighs and brown 3minutes.Add theshallots and continue to cook 2minutes stirring as they cook. Turn chicken over and add the mushrooms.Continue to cook, stirring for 3minutes. Divide the chicken in half and remove thechicken to twodin-

CHICKEN

Continued from page1D

tionships with all of the neighbors and don’twant to create animosity or awkwardness where there isn’tany

Gentlereader: When anyone wishes to express indignation about an unwelcome encroachment, the accepted metaphor is not, “Can you believe So-and-so was in my living room, uninvited, playing my piano?!”

The expression is, “Can you believe this was going on in my own backyard?!”

Miss Manners mentionsthis as areminder that if you want to maintain good relations withthe neighbors, you will absolutely have to be considerate, which means: giving notice of your plans; reassuring them that you

are available to handle any unintended inconveniences that result;taking “no” forananswer to any suggestion that they consider redoing their own —and spending less time thinking about what you have aright to do. Fortunately, it is possible to do all of this without putting the central question up fordebate. Tell them that you are planning to replace yourfence and say that, while you have no idea if they were planning to redo theirs, if they are, you would be happy to see if usingasingle contractor would be away foreveryone to save money Dear Miss Manners: Iwas working withanolder woman and we hit it off verywell. Her eyes were no-

ticeably red, and my ophthalmologist had suggested an over-thecounter product for me that works beautifully and is safe to use. Iwas tempted to tell her about it, but thought that it might be embarrassing forher if Imentioned her eyes. DidI do the right thing by being silent, or did Imiss an opportunity to do someone afavor? Gentle reader: Yes. Possibly

Sendquestions to Miss Manners at herwebsite, www missmanners.com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail.com; or through postal mailtoMiss Manners, Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City,MO 64106.

Quellthe complaints abouttoo much zucchini with this recipe

BY BETH DOOLEY

TheMinnesota Star Tribune (TNS)

Zucchiniisthe blessing and bane of agarden.

In high season, my friend “gifts” boxes of her prodigious crop on her neighbors’ front steps and in the back seat of unlocked cars. What to do withall this bounty? On its own, zucchini is arelatively humble ingredient that pales next to its summerpeers —those snappy cherry tomatoes, golden sweet corn, velvetyeggplant. But what zucchini lacks in pizazz, it can make up for in its flexibilityand adaptability. It adds moisture and flavor to muffins and teabreads,and is wonderful stirfried and sautéed. Becauseofits high water content, zucchini can get soggy if it’s undercooked; it is truly best when roasted just long enough to extract all the juices, thenturning golden, caramelized and crispinthe oven’sdry heat Zucchiniisasummer squash, a category that includes pattypan, scallop, crookneck and straightneck squash. All have amild flavor and can be used interchangeably.They’re also low calorie and rich in vitamins Cand B6, fiber and antioxidants. Youwant summer squashes when they’reyoung and small, not thesize of abaseball bat.Oversized zucchini and summer squash are woody and tasteless.

Roastingsummer squash is the best way toshowcase itslight, mild herbal flavors, as it develops a firm crust on the outside and turns creamywithin. The only trick is to slice them intouniform thickness (about 1/2 inch) so they roastevenly

Oven-roasted zucchini and squash are great withpasta, in a casserole topped withcheese or scattered on pizza. Served witha marinara sauce or ranch dressing

DREAMSTIME/TNS PHOTO

Zucchini is asummer squash, acategorythat includes pattypan, scallop crookneck and straightneck squash.

for dipping, it makes awonderful appetizer

Youmay feel overwhelmed with this bounty,but don’twish it (or summer) away Oven-Roasted Zucchini, Summer Squash and Cherry Tomato Pasta

Recipefrom Beth Dooley.Serves

4to6

1½ lb.zucchini and summersquash, trimmed and cut into ½-in. discs

1½ lb.cherry tomatoes

Extra-virgin olive oil

Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper

12 oz. fusilli pasta, or anypreferred shape

¼cup shreddedParmesan cheese

Juice of ½fresh lemon

2tbsp. choppedbasil, plus leavesfor garnish

1. Line arimmed sheet pan with parchment and preheat it in the

oven to 400 F.

2. Toss the zucchini, summer squash andtomatoes withenough oiltogenerouslycoat. Spread out on the preheated roasting pan and season with salt and pepper.Roast until the tomatoes are blistered andsplit andthe zucchini and squash are golden andcrisped, about20minutes, occasionally turning and shaking the pan.

3. Meanwhile, cook the pasta in rapidly boiling saltedwater until just tender,about 10 to 12 minutes. Remove about ½cup of the cooking water and set aside, then drain the pasta in acolander.Transfer the pasta to alarge bowl.

4. Toss the roasted vegetables in withthe pasta, addinga ¼cup of thereserved pasta water along withthe cheese. Taste,and if the pasta seemstoo dry add alittle morepasta water.Toss in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper, adding moreolive oilas needed. Toss in the basil and serve garnished with fresh basil leaves and lemon wedges on the side.

nerplates. Ameat thermometer shouldread 160 F. Cook aminute longer if needed. Addthe flour to the skillet and mix with the vegetables until dissolved, for afew seconds.Add the wine.Cook 1minute. Addbroth and tomato paste.Stir all of the ingredients togetherand cook 1to 2minutes until sauce is thickened. Add salt and pepper to taste. While sauce cooks, add the rice to the microwave and cook followingpackagetiming. Measure 1½ cups and save any remaining rice for another meal. Dividein half andadd to the plateswiththe chicken. When the sauce is ready,spoon it over the chicken andsprinkleparsley on top

PER SERVING: 561 calories (30% fromfat), 18.6 gfat (2.7 gsaturated,8.8 gmonounsaturated), 156 mg cholesterol, 40.4 gprotein, 50.7 gcarbohydrates, 3.3g fiber, 181mgsodium.

FOOTBALL

Continuedfrom page1D Peanut

By

smoothing thetop slightly so it’seven. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until thetop is set and golden brown.

6. Remove from the oven and let cool in bakingdish till nearly completely cool before making the top-

ping.

7. In the microwave in 20 second increments at 50% power,melt thechocolate chipsand butter together

8. Once melted, spread the chocolate on top of thebars andsprinkle with peanut butter M&Ms.

published in 2021. Email Chef at chefkevinbelton@ gmail.com.

TNS PHOTO By LINDAGASSENHEIMER

ButterCookieBars

PHOTO

MONICA BELTON

Peanut Butter Cookie Bars

VIRGo(Aug. 23-sept. 22) Your budget mustbeairtight if youwanttoavoid stress andsetbacks. Trust yourself to help prevent misinformation and make informed decisions.

LIBRA (sept. 23-oct. 23) Observation alone won't offer atrue adaptation of what's unfolding. Be cautious about sharing your plans or feelings prematurely. Apositive change is apparent, but it's up to youtoinitiate the process.

scoRPIo (oct. 24-nov. 22) Bendthe rules alittle when dealing with emotional situations to avoidconfrontations or interference. Have abackup plan ready and be prepared to offer acompromise.

sAGIttARIus (nov. 23-Dec. 21) Putyour physical ability to the test. Activities thatchallenge youtopush your limits will alsoencourage you to align yourself with people who share asimilar mindset.

cAPRIcoRn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Investments look promising. Buying and selling, upgrades, and wheeling and dealing are all featured. Let go of thepast and invest your energy in activities that make youfeel good about yourself.

AQuARIus (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Keep the momentum flowing, and you'll find asource of revenue that bridges the gap. Reach out to people who can offer insight into your plans.

PIscEs (Feb. 20-March 20) Hold off on initiatingachangeuntil you have the facts, the energytofollow through and

themeans to ensure you reach your goal. Preparation is everything, so don't rush into something prematurely.

ARIEs (March 21-April 19) Explore the possibilities thatexist in your homeand community.Getting outand socializing, mixing business with pleasure and sharing your enthusiasm will helpyou reach your objective.

tAuRus (April 20-May 20) Acquire additional skills andnetwork with those whocan help you connect with theright people andorganizations.Emotional interference is apparent if you aren't persistent and meticulous.

GEMInI (May 21-June 20) Do something thatyou find mentally stimulating. Take responsibility for your life and prospects. Change begins with you, so stop waiting for someone else to make thefirst move.

cAncER (June 21-July 22) Promise only what youcan deliver. Sound andsimple ideas are theanswer and will helpyou navigate your way forward.Participatinginphysical fitness activities is in your best interest.

LEo (July 23-Aug.22) Let go of what you cannot change. Expressing loveand kindness to thepeople you cherish will encourage better relationships and promotepositive lifestyle habits.

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

Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letterinthe cipher stands for another.

toDAy's cLuE: LEQuALs B

CeLebrItY CIpher

For better or For WorSe

beetLe bAILeY

Mother GooSe And GrIMM

LAGoon

bIG nAte

Sudoku

InstructIons: sudoku is anumber-placing puzzle based on a9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place thenumbers1to9 in the empty squares so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box containsthe same number only once. The difficulty level of thesudoku increases from monday to sunday.

Yesterday’sPuzzle Answer

THe wiZard oF id

BLondie

BaBY BLueS

Hi and LoiS

CurTiS

Bridge

By PHILLIP ALDER

Steve Coogan, an English actor, writer and producer,said, “The trick is always to write in pairs because if at leasttwo peoplefinditfunny, you’ve immediately halved the odds of its not being funny.”

The trick is alwaystoplaybridge whether in pairs, teams or Chicago keepingthe odds in mind.Intoday’sdeal, what is the rightway to play the heart suit for no losers?

In the auction, tournament players sitting West would haverespondedthree diamonds, pre-emptive, showing alot of diamonds and aweak hand. (With gameinvitational values and diamond support, West would have responded two hearts, acue-bid raise.) Then, North wouldnot havebeenstrongenoughtoadvancewith three hearts, and it would have been dangerous for South to balance with atakeout double when he had onlytwo spades. As it went, South made agame-try with three clubs, which North rejected. She had good clubs, but did not like the rest of her hand.

South has four top losers:two spades and two diamonds.Inisolation, the best playfornoheartloseristoleaddummy’s jack, planning to run the eight on the second round, which would have worked. However, West led the diamond 10. East wonwithhis aceand returned thesuit. West won, shifted to the spade king, and played anotherspade. East won and led a third spade. If West hadthe heart sevendoubleton, declarer hadtoruffwithhis nine. Butwith this layout, he had to ruff with his five. Since West couldholdtwo seven-doubletons and only one four-twodoubleton,Southruffedwithhisnineand went downone.

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

Each Wuzzle is aword riddlewhich creates adisguised word, phrase, name, place, saying, etc. Forexample: nOOn gOOD =gOOD aFTErnOOn

Previous answers:

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,

toDAy’s WoRD InFERRInG: in-FER-ing: Surmising from facts or premises.

Average mark 22 words Timelimit40minutes Can youfind27ormore words in INFERRING?

wuzzles

marmaduKe

Bizarro

hagar the horriBle

Pearls Before swiNe

garfield

B.C.

PiCKles

dIrectIons: make a2-to 7-letterword from the letters in each row.add points of each word, usingscoring directions at right. Finally 7-letterwords get 50-point bonus “Blanks”used as any letter have no point value. allthe words are in the Official sCraBBlE® players Dictionary, 5th Edition.

Puzzle Answer

ken ken

InstructIons: 1 -Eachrow and each column must containthe numbers 1thorugh 4(easy) or 1through 6 (challenging) without repeating 2 -The numbers within the heavily outlined boxes, calledcages, must combine using the given operation (in any order) to produce the target numbers in the top-left corners. 3 -Freebies: Fillinthe single-box cages with the numberinthe top-left corner. HErE is

WiShinG Well

Scrabble GramS

roSe

OF FIC IAL PROCEED ING S OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS

REGULAR SESSION

CITY HALL: JUNE 26, 2025

The Council of the City of New Orleans met this day in Regular Session, at 10:07A.M., in the Council Chamber,City Hall, Council President, JP Morrell, presiding. On callingthe roll, the following members answered to their names:

PRESENT: MORENO (VICE PRESIDENT) MORRELL (PRESIDENT) GIARRUSSO HARRIS GREEN THOMAS ABSENT: KING SIX MEMBERS PRESENT,CONSTITUTING AQUORUM.

ROLL CALL

AISHA R. COLLIER

ASSISTANT CLERK OF COUNCIL

INVOCATION

BISHOP BRANDON BOUTIN UNITED FELLOWSHIP FULL GOSPEL BAPTIST CHURCH

PLEDGEOFALLEGIANCE

HELENA MORENO

COUNCILMEMBER -AT-LARGE

ORDINANCES ON FINAL PASSAGE CAL. NO. 35,112 -BY: COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO, MORENO, GREEN AND THOMAS (BY REQUEST)-AnOrdinance to amend Ordinance No. 30139

M.C.S., as amended, entitled “An Ordinance Providing an Operating Budget of Revenues for the City of New Orleans for the Year 2025”, to movegrant funds within the Health Department from Fund 4405 to 4145, appropriation 200 -Other Operating to 100 -Personal Services for the purpose of delivering medication and medical supplies during alargescale public health emergency; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0 ABSENT:King -1

RECUSED: 0 AND THE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED. CAL. NO. 35,113 -BY: COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO, MORENO, GREEN AND THOMAS (BY REQUEST)- An Ordinance to amend Ordinance No. 30140 M.C.S., as amended, entitled “An Ordinance Providing an Operating Budget of Expenditures for the City of New Orleans for the Year 2025”, to move grant funds within the Health Department from Fund 4405 to 4145, appropriation 200 –Other Operating to 100 –Personal Services for the purpose of delivering medication and medical supplies during alarge-scale public health emergency; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris,Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0

ABSENT:King -1

RECUSED: 0 AND THE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED.

CAL. NO. 35,114 -BY: COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO, MORENO, GREEN AND THOMAS (BY REQUEST) -An Ordinance to amendOrdinance No. 30139

M.C.S., as amended, entitled “An Ordinance Providing an Operating Budget of Revenues for the City of New Orleans for the Year 2025”, to appropriate additional grant funds to the Office of the Mayor to purchase equipmentand supplies for projects that areawarded on the FY23 State Homeland Security Grant; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris,Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0

ABSENT:King -1

RECUSED: 0 AND THE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED.

CAL. NO. 35,115 -BY: COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO, MORENO, GREEN AND THOMAS (BYREQUEST)- An Ordinancetoamend Ordinance No. 30140 M.C.S., as amended, entitled “An Ordinance Providing an Operating Budget of Expenditures for the City of New Orleansfor the Year 2025”, to appropriate additional grant funds to the Office of the Mayor to purchase equipment and supplies for projects that areawarded on the FY23 State Homeland Security Grant; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0

ABSENT:King -1

RECUSED: 0 AND THE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED.

CAL. NO. 35,125 -BY: COUNCILMEMBERS THOMAS AND GREEN (BY REQUEST) -AnOrdinance to amend and reordain Sections 147-1 and 147-2 of the Code of the City of New Orleans, relative to restrictions and reporting requirements for the use of surveillance technologies, to clarifythe definitions of facial recognition and facial surveillance; provide for circumstances under which the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) or the City’sReal Time CrimeCenter (RTCC) may use or receive informationfromrestricted surveillance technologies; provide for and extendreportingrequirements to agreements with thirdparties for useof restricted surveillance technologies; change NOPD reporting frequency from monthly to quarterly; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto. WITHDRAWN.

CAL. NO. 35,128 -BY: COUNCILMEMBER THOMAS (BY REQUEST) -

An Ordinance to authorize the Mayor of the City of New Orleans to enter into Amendment No. 3toa previously executed Cooperative Endeavor Agreement (“CEA”) between the City of New Orleans (the “City”), and HealingMinds Nola relative to the public purpose of supporting the NewOrleans Assisted Outpatient Treatment (“AOT”) program’sability to coordinate physicians to conduct mental health evaluations for prospective AOT participants in compliance with the Louisiana Revised Statutes 28:66 et seq., and to compensate physicians for sameby operating the AOT programs through the Orleans Civil District Court and working to connect people in need of mental health treatment to appropriate resources through case management and court supervision; to modify the provisions thereof and extend the term thereof for one (1) additional year,asmorefully set forth in the Amendment No. 3asExhibit “A” and made apart hereof; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0

ABSENT:King -1

RECUSED: 0 AND THE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED.

CAL. NO. 35,129 -BY: COUNCILMEMBERMORRELL -AnOrdinance to amend and reordain Ordinance No. 30,074 MCS regarding short-term rental platforms to verify eligibility of its listings, to extend the effective date of such ordinance; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0

ABSENT:King -1

RECUSED: 0 AND THE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED.

CAL. NO. 35,130 -BY: COUNCILMEMBERMORENO (BYREQUEST)An Ordinance to amend and reordain Section146-569 of the Code of the City of New Orleans to provide for regulations relative to electric vehicle chargers; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0

ABSENT:King -1

RECUSED: 0 AND THE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED. CAL. NO. 35,131 -BY: COUNCILMEMBER GIARRUSSO (BY REQUEST)

-AnOrdinance to authorize the Mayor of the City of New Orleans to enter into Amendment No. 1toapreviously executed Cooperative Endeavor Agreement (“CEA”) between the City of New Orleans (“City”) and Blue Krewe relative to the

Exhibit “1”; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris,Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0 ABSENT:King -1

RECUSED: 0 AND THE ORDINANCE

and

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris,Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0 ABSENT: King -1

RECUSED: 0 ANDTHE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED. CAL. NO.35,135 -BY: COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO, MORRELL, MORENO, HARRIS, KING, GREEN ANDTHOMAS -AnOrdinance to amend and re-ordain Ordinance No.30,141 M.C.S., entitled “AnOrdinance

Providing aCapital Budget for the Year 2025”, to effect the following change to the 2025 Capital Budget:toappropriate unencumbered bond funds to Tulane University forCharity Hospital redevelopment efforts in addition to capital expenditures consistent with Tulane Downtown plans; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris,Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0 ABSENT: King -1

RECUSED: 0 ANDTHE ORDINANCE,ASAMENDED, WASADOPTED.

CAL. NO.35,136 -BY: COUNCILMEMBER GREEN -AnOrdinance to amend and reordain Section 54-151(d) of the Code of the City of NewOrleans, relative to graffiti, to increase the maximum penalties for violations related to graffiti, and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0 ABSENT: King -1

RECUSED: 0 ANDTHE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED.

CAL. NO.35,138 -BY: COUNCILMEMBER MORENO (BYREQUEST) -

An Ordinance to authorize the Mayor of the City of NewOrleans to enter into Amendment No.1 to apreviously executed Cooperative Endeavor Agreement (“CEA”)between the City of NewOrleans (“City”) and the New Orleans CommunitySupport Foundation relative to the valued public purpose of administering the Youth Climate Action Fund to fund youthled climate initiatives in support of the New Orleans Climate Action Plan, to extend the term thereof for an additional sixteen months, increase the funding $100,000, and modify the obligations of the parties, as morefully detailedinthe Amendment No.1tothe Cooperative Endeavor Agreement as Exhibit “A”; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris,Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0 ABSENT: King -1

RECUSED: 0 ANDTHE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED.

CAL. NO.35,139 -BY: COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO, MORENO, GREEN ANDTHOMAS (BYREQUEST) -AnOrdinance to amend Ordinance No.30139 M.C.S., as amended, entitled “AnOrdinance Providing an Operating Budget of Revenues for the City of NewOrleans for the Year 2025”, to appropriate Private Funds to the HealthDepartment for FY25 expenses; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris,Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0 ABSENT: King -1

RECUSED: 0 ANDTHE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED.

CAL. NO.35,140 -BY: COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO, MORENO, GREEN ANDTHOMAS (BYREQUEST) -AnOrdinance to amend Ordinance No.30140 M.C.S., as amended, entitled “AnOrdinance Providing an Operating Budget of Expenditures for the City of NewOrleans for the Year 2025”, to appropriate Private Funds to the HealthDepartment for FY25 expenses; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris,Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0 ABSENT: King -1

RECUSED: 0 ANDTHE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED.

CAL. NO.35,141 -BY: COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO, MORENO, GREEN ANDTHOMAS (BYREQUEST) -AnOrdinance to amend Ordinance No.30139 M.C.S., as amended, entitled “AnOrdinance

Providing an Operating Budget of Revenues for the City of NewOrleans for the Year 2025”, to appropriate grant funds received from NACCHO (National Association of County and City Health Officials) to the New Orleans HealthDepartment to create amediacampaign to increase Syphilis awareness and linkage to careinOrleans Parish; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0

ABSENT: King -1

RECUSED: 0 ANDTHE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED.

CAL. NO.35,142 -BY: COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO, MORENO, GREEN ANDTHOMAS (BYREQUEST) -AnOrdinance to amend Ordinance No.230140 M.C.S., as amended, entitled “AnOrdinance

Providing an Operating Budget of Expenditures for the City of New Orleans for the Year 2025”, to appropriate grant funds received from NACCHO (National Association of County and City HealthOfficials) to the NewOrleans Health Department to create amediacampaign to increase Syphilis awareness and linkage to careinOrleans Parish; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0 ABSENT: King -1

RECUSED: 0 ANDTHE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED.

CAL. NO.35,146 -BY: COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO, MORENO, GREEN ANDTHOMAS (BYREQUEST) -AnOrdinance to amend

Ordinance No.30139 M.C.S., as amended, entitled “AnOrdinance

Providing an Operating Budget of Revenues for the City of NewOrleans for the Year 2025”, to move grant funds within the Health Department from Fund 4405 to 4145, appropriation 200 -Other Operating to 100 -Personal

Services for the purpose of delivering medication and medical supplies during alarge-scalepublic health emergency; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris,Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0 ABSENT: King -1

RECUSED: 0 ANDTHE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED.

CAL. NO.35,147 -BY: COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO, MORENO, GREEN ANDTHOMAS (BYREQUEST) -AnOrdinance to amend

Ordinance No.30140 M.C.S., as amended, entitled “AnOrdinance Providing an Operating Budget of Expenditures for the City of NewOrleans for the Year 2025”, to move grant funds within the Health Department from Fund 4405 to 4145, appropriation 200 –Other Operating to 100 –Personal Services for the purpose of delivering medication and medical supplies during alarge-scalepublic health emergency; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

ROLL CALL:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris,Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0 ABSENT: King -1 RECUSED: 0 ANDTHE ORDINANCE WASADOPTED. MOTION/RESOLUTION (LYING OVER)

NO.M-25-309 CITYHALL: June 12, 2025

BY:COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO, MORENO, MORRELL, HARRIS, KING, GREEN ANDTHOMAS

WHEREAS, on Friday,May 23rd, the Orleans Parish Civil District Court granted the New Orleans City Council’stwo motions for summary judgment in the Wisner Trust suit: first, nullifying the purported 2020 extension of the expired trust and confirming that the trust ended August 4, 2014; and second, affirming Mr.Wisner’sintent to make the City of New Orleans the sole owner of all the property held in trust; and WHEREAS, having established ownership of the property held in the Wisner Trust, the City Council desires to understand its value and how best to use and manage the property; NOWTHEREFORE BE IT MOVED BY THECOUNCIL OF THECITY OF NEWORLEANS, That, in accordance with Council Rule42, it is hereby determined that the services of aprofessional areneeded regarding the valuation and administration of the property held in the Wisner Trust; and BE IT FURTHERMOVED, That the Council ChiefofStaffishereby directed to issue and advertise arequest for qualifications and/or proposalsfor one or moreconsultants or firm of consultants to determine the value of the property held in the Wisner Trust, to recommend the property’sbest and highest use, and to recommend acomprehensive approach to administer the property; and BE IT FURTHERMOVED, That the selection review committee established pursuant to Council Rule42shall consist of the Council ChiefofStaff, the Council Research Officer and the Council Fiscal Officer,aswell as any additional knowledgeablepersons whose expertise wouldbehelpful in the evaluation process as determined by the Council ChiefofStaff.

JUNE 26, 2025 THEFOREGOING MOTION WASREAD IN FULL, THEROLL WAS CALLED ON THE ADOPTION THEREOF,AND RESULTED AS FOLLOWS: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris,Moreno, Morrell,Thomas -6

NAYS: 0 ABSENT: King -1

AND THE MOTION WASADOPTED MOTIONS/RESOLUTIONS NO. M-25-349 BY:COUNCILMEMBERS THOMAS, GREEN AND HARRIS (BY REQUEST) WHEREAS, Section 70-10(a) of the NewOrleansCity Code ordains that certaincontractsproviding for the aggregateexpenditureofmorethan $1,000,000.00 in city funds during the initialterm andall allowable renewal terms or having an initialterm of morethanone year must be signed by the president of the City Council; and WHEREAS, Section 70-10(b) of the NewOrleansCity Code ordains that the President of the NewOrleansCity Council (“Council”)shall not execute anysuchcontract unless authorized to do so by Council motion; and WHEREAS, the Office of Community Development andPeople’s Housing+, Inc, aftercompleting a2024 CHDOfunding application desire to enterinto aLoanAgreementfor $600,000 of HOME CHDOfunds for newconstruction or rehabilitation of 7affordable rentalunits, as well as three accessorydocuments to the LoanAgreementincluding a Regulatory Agreement, Promissory Note,and Mortgage,attached hereto in substantial conformity as Exhibits A, B, C, andD;NOW THEREFORE BE IT MOVED BY THE COUNCILOFTHE CITY OF NEWORLEANS, That the President of the Council shall be added as asignatory to the agreements between the Office of Community Development andPeople’s Housing+, Inc. BE IT MOVED BY THE COUNCILOFTHE CITY OF NEWORLEANS, That the President of the Council is authorized to sign the agreements between the Office of Community Development andPeople’sHousing+, Inc. BE IT FURTHER MOVED BY THE COUNCILOFTHE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS, That the Clerk of Council shall forwardcopiesof this motion andExhibit Atothe City Attorney’sOffice. THE FOREGOING MOTION WASREADINFULL, THE ROLLWAS CALLEDONTHE ADOPTION THEREOF,AND RESULTED AS FOLLOWS: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas-6 NAYS: 0 ABSENT:King -1 AND THE MOTION WASADOPTED **Copies of the attachment may be seen in full in the Clerk of Council’s Office, 1300 Perdido Street,Room 1E09, City Hall. NO. M-25-350 BY:COUNCILMEMBERS HARRIS, GREEN AND THOMAS (BY REQUEST) WHEREAS, Section 70-10 of the Code of the City of NewOrleansrequires thatcertaincontractsproviding for the aggregateexpenditureofmore than$1,000,000.00 in city funds during the initialterm andall allowable renewaltermsorhaving an initialterm of morethanone year or providing for legalservices must be signedbythe President of the City Council; and WHEREAS, Section 70-10 furtherprovides thatthe President of the City Council shall not execute anysuchcontract unless authorized to do so by Council motion; and WHEREAS, The City of NewOrleans, Health Department, andLouisiana Department of Child andFamily Services desiretoenterinto a memorandum of understandingfor the Health Department to become a Community Partner at the GOLDlevel providing application assistance for SNAP andotherpublic assistance programs to the general public at designated City sites, for aperiod of 5years,with no funds expended; NOW THEREFORE BE IT MOVED BY THE COUNCILOFTHE CITY OF NEWORLEANS, That the President of the Council shall be added as asignatory to the memorandum of understandingbetween the City of NewOrleansand Louisiana Department of Child andFamily Services; and BE IT FURTHER MOVED, Thatthe President of the Council is hereby authorized to sign the memorandum of understandingbetween the City of NewOrleansand Louisiana Department of Child andFamily Services, as attached hereto as Exhibit A; and BE IT FURTHER MOVED, Thatthe Clerk of Council shall forwardcopiesof this motion, including Exhibit A, to the City Attorney’sOffice to effectuate this request. THE FOREGOING MOTION WASREADINFULL, THE ROLLWAS CALLEDONTHE ADOPTION THEREOF,AND RESULTED AS FOLLOWS: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas-6 NAYS: 0 ABSENT:King -1 AND THE MOTION WASADOPTED.

**Copies of the attachment may be seen in full in the Clerk of Council’s Office, 1300 Perdido Street,Room 1E09, City Hall. NO. R-25-351 BY:COUNCILMEMBER GIARRUSSO SECONDED BY:COUNCILMEMBER HARRIS WHEREAS, Article VII, Section 21(H) of the State Constitution andAct 445 of 1983 provides for payment of ad valorem taxes on certainbasisfor property owners performingcertainimprovements in Historic,Economic Development, andDowntown Development Districts; and WHEREAS, in accordance with the procedures establishedbyResolution R-20-10, MCMDevelopment LLC submitted an application to the Mayor’s Office of Economic Development for review,for the property located at municipal address 5520 Loyola Street;and WHEREAS, the Mayor’sOffice of Economic Development recommends denial for the property’sparticipation in the aforementioned taxprogram; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCILOFTHE CITY OF NEWORLEANS, That afterconsideration of the recommendation of the Mayor’sOffice of Economic Development, hereby grants participation in the Property Tax Abatement Program, authorized by Act445 of 1983 andArticle VII Section 21(H) of the Constitution, to municipaladdress 5520 Loyola Street,owned by MCMDevelopment LLC andfurtheridentified by the State Boardof Commerceand Industry as application numberRTA #20240285,effective June 26, 2026; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED BY THE COUNCILOFTHE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS, That acopy of this resolution be forwarded to the State Board of Commerceand Industry THE FOREGOING RESOLUTION WASREADINFULL, THE ROLLWAS CALLEDONTHE ADOPTION THEREOF,AND RESULTED AS FOLLOWS: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas-6 NAYS: 0 ABSENT:King -1 AND THE RESOLUTION WASADOPTED NO. R-25-352 BY:COUNCILMEMBERS MORENO, MORRELL, HARRIS, GREEN AND THOMAS RESOLUTION AND ORDER REGARDINGENTERGY NEWORLEANS, LLC’SCOMPLIANCE FILING

DOCKET NO. UD-18-03

WHEREAS, pursuant to the Home Rule Charter of the City of NewOrleans, the Council of the City of NewOrleans(“Council”)isthe governmental body with the power of supervision, regulation, andcontrol overpublic utilitiesproviding service within the City of NewOrleans; and WHEREAS, pursuant to its powers of supervision,regulation andcontrol over public utilities, the Council is responsible for fixing andchanging rates andcharges of public utilitiesand making allnecessary rulesand regulations to govern applications for the fixing andchanging of rates and chargesofpublic utilities; and WHEREAS, EntergyNew Orleans, LLC (“ENO”) is apublic utility providing electric service to allofNew Orleans; and Background

WHEREAS, on March 28, 2019, the Council adopted Resolution No. R-19111, establishing the Community SolarRules, andsubsequently amended and/or clarified those RulesinResolution Nos. R-19-390, R-22-76, R-23130, R-23-507, R-24-137, R-24-310, andR-24-571; and WHEREAS, in R-24-571, adopted by the Council on October10, 2024, the Council orderedcertainchangestoENO’sForm CSG 4and the Community SolarRulesand directed ENOtosubmit arevised form and rules to CUROand the Advisorsnolater thanNovember1,2024 to ensure compliancewith the Council’sdirectives; and WHEREAS, on November1,2024, ENOsubmittedits compliance filing with proposed language for the revised Form CSG-4 andCommunity SolarRulesreflected in redline andsupplemented that filing on January 16, 2025. In response to feedback from the Council’sAdvisors andCURO on their submissions, ENOsubmitteda furtherrevised version of CSG-4 on March 6, 2025, acopy of whichisattached as Appendix A; and WHEREAS, on April 2, 2025, TogetherNew Orleans(“TNO”) submitted furthercomments on the NewOrleanscommunity solarprogram ,and, on April 24, 2025, in Resolution No. R-25-255, the Council set acomment deadline of May 27, 2025 to affordpartiesanopportunity to address the issuesoutlinedinTNO’sApril 2, 2025 filing; and WHEREAS, TNO’sproposed changessought (1)toreduce insurance requirements for Subscriber Organizations from $3 million to $1 million; 2 (2)tomake changestoboth section 4.5ofCSG-4 andSection VII.D.9 of the Community SolarRulestocomply with R-24-571, to impose a deposit requirementupon ENO, to substantially lengthenthe time period Subscriber Organizations have beforethe deposit requirementapplies, andtorequireCouncil approvalofeach deposit requirementand deposit forfeiture; (3)toeliminate the proposed application queue waitlist and remove the capacity cap from the application queue;4 (4)torequireENO to update its website’s flowchart to show thatinterconnection agreements can be signed afterthe system impact study;5 (5)tokeep ENOontrack to implement aplanfor consolidatedbilling by July 1, 2025;6 and(6) to waive deposit invoices being sent underthe currentversion of the Community SolarRulesthatwill not be applicable underthe newversion of the Community SolarRules;7 and WHEREAS, ENO8 anda totalofeleven Intervenors9 filedcomments pursuant to Resolution No. R-25-255. The Intervenors supportedTNO’s proposed changes;10 and WHEREAS, ENOrequested the Council reject the changesproposed by TNO to the deposit, insurance, andapplication queue provisions previously orderedbythe Council andrequest Council to approve the pending January 16, 2025 redlined documents submitted in compliance

available for any elections; and WHEREAS,per the memorandum to the Clerk of Council dated June 17, 2025, the Clerk of Criminal District Court, Darren P. Lombardhas recommended for immediate action permanent polling location changes; NOW THEREFORE BE IT MOVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEWORLEANS, That the

“approve or disapprove the renewal of the levy of aparcel fee in the amount of one hundred seventy-five dollars ($175) and not to exceed two hundred dollars ($200) on allproperty situated” in the District fora term of

(5) years; WHEREAS, accordingly,atits May 22, 2025 meeting,the City Council adopted Resolution No.R-25-302, calling the election as requested, subject to StateBond Commission approval;and WHEREAS, the StateBond Commission determined that an increase of the parcel fee from $100 to $175 per year does not constitute “a renewal”, necessitating rescission of Resolution No.R-25-302 and new Resolution calling an election. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THECOUNCIL OF THECITYOFNEW ORLEANS, That Resolution No.R-25-302 is hereby rescinded; and BE IT RESOLVED BY THECOUNCILOFTHE CITYOFNEW ORLEANS, That SECTION 1. Election Call. Subject to the approval of the StateBond Commission and under the authority conferred by Act 554 of the 2010 Regular Session of the LegislatureofLouisiana; Act 238 of the 2015 Regular Session of the LegislatureofLouisiana; Article VI of the Constitutionofthe StateofLouisiana of 1974; the applicable provisions of Title 18 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended; and other constitutional and statutory authority supplemental thereto, an electionishereby called, in accordance with Title 18 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950, as amended, for Saturday,November 15, 2025 between the hours of seven o’clock in the morning (7:00 a.m.) and eight o’clock in the evening (8:00 p.m.), and at said election the electorate of the Broadmoor Neighborhood Improvement District may approve or disapprove the levy of an annual flat feeinthe amount not to exceed two hundred dollars ($200) per improved parcel of land located within the District, for aterm of and not exceeding five (5) years, commencing on January 1, 2026 and ending on December 31, 2030. The precise amount of the fee is currentlyspecified as one hundred seventy-five dollars ($175), which fee is estimated to generate approximately $306,250 per year.Any fee levied upon aparcel in the District shall be in additiontoany ad valorem tax affecting real property,or any charge, (including,but not limited to,a sanitation charge), fee, license, permit or rate imposed or levied pursuant to the regulatory authority of the City of New Orleans in the operation of the city,its departments, agencies, boards and commissions, whether attached or unattached, including,but not limited to,the Sewerage and Water Board. The proceeds of any fee collected shall be used solely and exclusively for the purpose of promoting quality of life initiatives and encouraging the beautification and overall betterment of the District; however,the City of New Orleans may retain one percent of the amount collected as acollectionfee. The affairs of the District shall be managed by the Boardofthe Broadmoor Neighborhood Improvement District. The Boardshall adopt an annual budget in accordance with the Local Government Budget Act,R.S. 39:1301, et seq.

The members of the Boardshall serve without compensation.

The official ballot to be used for saidelection shall be printed and worded in the voting machines as follows: BROADMOOR NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT

PROPOSITION Shallthe City of New Orleans levy an annual fee on each improved parcel of land within the Broadmoor Neighborhood Improvement District (the “District”), in an amount not to exceed two hundred dollars ($200), with the precise amount as requested by duly adopted boardresolution, currently specified as one hundred seventy-five dollars ($175) which fee is estimated to generateapproximately $306,250 annually,for aperiod of and not exceeding five (5) years, beginning January 1, 2026 and ending December 31, 2030, to be used exclusivelyfor promoting quality of life initiatives and encouraging the beautification and overall betterment of the District, except aone percent (1%) City collection fee, and if used for additional services, such services shall be supplemental to and not in lieu of services provided by the city, the state, or other political subdivisions?

SECTION 2. District Boundaries. That area of the City of New Orleans within the following boundaries: the intersection of Nashville Avenue and SouthClaiborneAvenue; proceeding along Nashville Avenue to its intersectionwith Fontainebleau Drive; along Fontainebleau Drive to its intersection with Octavia Street; along Octavia Streettoits intersection with SouthNorman C. FrancisParkway (formerly SouthJeffersonDavis Parkway); along SouthNorman C. FrancisParkway (formerly South Jefferson DavisParkway) to its intersection with Washington Avenue; then along Washington Avenue to whereitbecomes Toledano Street, and then along Toledano Street to its intersection with SouthClaiborneAvenue and back to the intersection of SouthClaiborneAvenue and Nashville Avenue.

SECTION 3. PublicationofNotice of Election.Notice of saidelection shall be published in the official journal of the City of New Orleans once aweek forfour (4) consecutive weeks, with the first publication being not less than forty-five (45) days nor morethan ninety (90) days prior to the date fixed forthe election, which notice shall be substantiallyinthe form attached hereto as Exhibit Aand incorporated hereinbyreference as if the same wereset forth herein in full.

SECTION 4. Canvass. The Council, acting under the powers granted to it by the City Charter and statestatutes, shall meet at its regular meeting place, the Council Chamber,City Hall, 1300 Perdido Street, New Orleans, Louisiana on Thursday,December 18, 2025, beginning at ten o’clock (10:00) a.m. and shall thenand thereinopen and public session proceed to examine and canvass the returns and declarethe result of said election.

SECTION 5. Polling Places. The polling places set forth in the aforesaid notice of election arehereby designated as the polling places at which to hold the saidelection, and the commissioners-in-charge and commissioners will be the same persons as those designated in accordance with law

SECTION 6. Election Commissioners; Voting Machines. The officers designated to serve as commissioners-in-charge and commissioners pursuant to Section5 hereof, or such substitutes therefor,asmay be selected and designated in accordance with La. R.S. 18:1287, shall hold the said election as herein provided, and shall make due returns of said election to the City Council.All registered voters in the District areentitled to vote at said election and voting machines shall be used thereat

SECTION 7. Authorization of Officers. The Clerk of Criminal District Court is hereby empowered, authorized and directed to arrange for and to furnish to said election officers in ample timefor the holding of said election, the necessary equipment, forms and other paraphernalia essential to the proper holding of said election and the President and/or Clerk of the City Council and the City Attorney areauthorized, empowered and directed to take any and all further action required by state and/or federal law to arrange for the election.

SECTION 8. Furnishing Election Call to Election Officials. Certified copies of this resolution shall be forwarded to the SecretaryofState, the Clerk of Court and ex-officio parish custodian of voting machines in and for the Parish of Orleans, StateofLouisiana, and the Registrar of Voters in and forsaid parish, as notification of the election herein called, in order that each may preparefor saidelectionand perform their respective functions as required by law.

the criminaljusticeagenciesthatare fundedbythe City; and WHEREAS, CalendarOrdinanceNo. 35,127, introduced May 28, 2025, would requirecertaincriminal justiceagencies, including the Sheriff’s office, to use the City’scurrent enterprise resource planning system (BRASS) to delineate how city funds areallocated within those agencies; and WHEREAS, the Council desires guidancefromthe Louisiana Attorney General’s office regarding the scope of the City’sand the Council’s authority overthe Sheriff’sexpenditureofCity funds; and WHEREAS, the AttorneyGeneral’s policy is thatany opinion request submitted by amember or officer of agoverning authority,orits counsel, must be pursuant to aresolution duly adopted by the authority seeking or otherwise approving the request; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCILOFTHE CITY OF NEWORLEANS, That the Council hereby requests the AttorneyGeneral to provide guidance on the following two questions:

1. Does the NewOrleansCity Council have the authority to requirethe Orleans Parish Sherifftoutilizethe City’senterprise resource planning system (commonly referred to as BRASS)for the Sheriff’soperating andpersonnelexpendituresand contractsthatinvolve the use of funds appropriatedtoitbythe City of NewOrleans?

2. Does the NewOrleansCity Council or the City Attorney’sOffice have the authority to review,approve, or otherwise exercise oversight over the contractsthatthe OrleansParish Sheriffenters into with vendors that expends the funds appropriatedtoitbythe City of NewOrleans? BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED BY THE COUNCILOFTHE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS, That the Clerk of Council shall send acertified copy of this resolution to the AttorneyGeneral’s office. THE FOREGOING RESOLUTION WASREADINFULL, THE ROLLWAS CALLEDONTHE ADOPTION THEREOF,AND RESULTED AS FOLLOWS: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas-6 NAYS: 0

ABSENT:King -1 AND THE RESOLUTION WASADOPTED

ORDINANCES ON FIRST READING

CALENDAR NO. 35,148 -BY: COUNCILMEMBER GIARRUSSO (BY REQUEST) -ANORDINANCE authorizing the Mayor of the City of New Orleans to enterinto aCooperative Endeavor Agreementbetween the City of NewOrleans(the “City”), andThe OrleansParish School Board (“OPSB”), for aterm greater thanone year,for the public purpose of the improving education for OrleansParish residents by providing ashare of netrevenue generated by the City’selectronic enforcementdevices, as morefully detailed in the Cooperative Endeavor Agreementform attached hereto as Exhibit “A”; andotherwise to provide with respect thereto. **Copies of the attachment may be seen in full in the Clerk of Council’s Office, 1300 Perdido Street,Room 1E09, City Hall.

CALENDAR NO. 35,149 -BY: COUNCILMEMBER MORRELL-AN

ORDINANCE to amendand reordain Article 19 of the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance (Ordinance No. 4264 M.C.S., as amended by Ordinance No. 26,413 M.C.S. andsubsequent amendments) to establish anew Interim Zoning District (IZD) to be namedthe Customary Lodging Services Staffing Interim Zoning District, the intent of whichistoprohibit the acceptance of anyapplication for anylicense or permit for ahotelor motel whichdoesnot provide staffing at allhours as apart of customary lodging services; andotherwise to provide with respect thereto. (ZONING DOCKET NO. 22/25)

CALENDAR NO. 35,150 -BY: COUNCILMEMBER MORRELL-AN

ORDINANCE to amendand reordain Article 26 of the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance (Ordinance No. 4264 M.C.S., as amended by Ordinance No. 26,413 M.C.S. andsubsequent amendments) to amendthe definition of “customary lodging services” to requireatminimum personnel or staffing on site at allhours; andotherwise to provide with respect thereto. (ZONING DOCKET NO. 23/25)

CALENDAR NO. 35,151 -BY: COUNCILMEMBER GREEN -AN

ORDINANCE to effect azoning change from aLILight Industrial District to an MU-1 Medium Intensity Mixed-Use District, on Square 31, Lot C-2-B-1, Gentilly Industrial District, in the ThirdMunicipalDistrict, bounded by Alvar Street,Carver Rams Way(formerly Higgins Boulevard), Desire Street,and Chickasaw Street (MunicipalAddress:3601 Desire Street); andotherwise to provide with respect thereto. (ZONING DOCKET NO. 25/25)

CALENDAR NO. 35,152 -BY: COUNCILMEMBER HARRIS -AN

ORDINANCE to rename the park located at 1801 South Robertson Street to Barbara Lacen KellerPark; andotherwise to provide with respect thereto.

CALENDAR NO. 35,153 -BY: COUNCILMEMBER GREEN (BY REQUEST) -ANORDINANCE to authorizethe Mayor of the City of NewOrleans to enterinto Amendment No. 1toa previously executedCooperative Endeavor Agreement(“CEA”) between the City of NewOrleans(“City”) andSustaining Our UrbanLandscape (“SOUL”) relative to the valued public purpose of tree plantings andcommunity engagement around tree plantings as part of the City of NewOrleans’ Urban& Community Forestry Programaward,toamend the scope of services, as morefully detailed in Amendment No. 1tothe CEAattached hereto as Exhibit “1”; andotherwise to provide with respect thereto. **Copies of the attachment may be seen in full in the Clerk of Council’s Office, 1300 Perdido Street,Room 1E09, City Hall.

CALENDAR NO. 35,154 -BY: COUNCILMEMBER MORENO(BY REQUEST) -ANORDINANCE to ordain Article XIV of Chapter 26 of the Code of the City of NewOrleanstorequireowners of nonresidential andmulti-family buildings to measure anddisclose energy usage;and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

CALENDAR NO. 35,155 -BY: COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO, MORENO, HARRIS, KING AND THOMAS -ANORDINANCE calling for an election on November15, 2025, at whichthe electors of the City of NewOrleansshall be asked to approve an amendment to Section 5-404 of the Home Rule Charter to extendthe deadlines for the City Planning Commission andCity Council to act on the Master Planand amendments thereto; andotherwise to provide with respect thereto.

CALENDAR NO. 35,156 -BY: COUNCILMEMBER GREEN (BY REQUEST) -ANORDINANCE to approve andauthorizethe City of NewOrleans (“City”), by andthrough the NewOrleansAviation Board (“NOAB”), to enter into an Amendedand Restated Lease AgreementatLouis Armstrong New Orleans InternationalAirport with BREEZE AVIATION GROUP,INC.;and otherwise to provide with respect thereto.

CALENDAR NO. 35,157 -BY: COUNCILMEMBER GREEN (BY REQUEST) -ANORDINANCE to approve andauthorizethe City of NewOrleans (“City”), by andthrough the NewOrleansAviation Board (“NOAB”), to enterinto an amended Lease andConcessions Agreementatthe Louis Armstrong NewOrleansInternationalAirport with PARADIES LAGADERE @MSYII, LLC; andotherwise to provide with respect thereto.

THE FOREGOING ORDINANCES WERE LAIDOVER AS REQUIRED BY LAW.

Therebeing no furtherbusiness, on motion of CouncilmemberGreen seconded by CouncilmemberHarris, andwithout objection, the Council meeting adjournedat1:36P.M.

AISHA R. COLLIER

Orleans Parish for their further handling. THE FOREGOING MOTION WASREAD IN FULL, THE ROLL WAS CALLED ON THE ADOPTIONTHEREOF,AND RESULTED AS FOLLOWS: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6 NAYS: 0 ABSENT:King -1 AND THE MOTION WASADOPTED. NO. R-25-357 (AS CORRECTED) BY:COUNCILMEMBER HARRIS

SECONDED BY:COUNCILMEMBER MORRELL

ARESOLUTION calling an election in the Broadmoor Neighborhood Improvement District for Saturday,November 15, 2025.

WHEREAS, the LegislatureofLouisianaadopted Act 554 during the Regular Session of 2010 (R.S. 33:9091.17) creating the Broadmoor Neighborhood Improvement District (hereinafter,District), and authorizing the City Council of New Orleans to levy and collect aparcel fee not to exceed one hundred dollars ($100) per year,upon each improved parcel of land located within the District, which is comprised of that area of the City of New Orleans within the following boundaries: the

SECTION 9. ApplicationtoState Bond Commission. Applicationis made to the StateBond Commission for consent and authority to hold the aforesaid election as herein provided, and in the event said election results in approval of the proposition, for further consent and authority to levy and collect the special fee provided for therein, and acertified copy of this resolution shall be forwarded to the StateBond Commission on behalf of the City Council requesting prompt consideration and approval of the application. THEFOREGOING RESOLUTION WASREAD IN FULL, THEROLL WAS CALLED ON THE ADOPTION THEREOF,AND RESULTED AS FOLLOWS: YEAS: Giarrusso,Green, Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6 NAYS: 0 ABSENT:King -1 ANDTHE RESOLUTION WASADOPTED.

**Copies of the attachment may be seen in full in the Clerk of Council’s Office, 1300 Perdido Street, Room 1E09, City Hall. NO.R-25-365 BY:COUNCILMEMBER MORRELL SECONDED BY:COUNCILMEMBER MORENO

WHEREAS, per Home RuleCharter Section3-115, the New Orleans City Council (the “Council”) receives and conducts hearings on the Mayor’s proposed annual operating budget; and WHEREAS, the Council has the power to increase, decrease, delete, or add any item of appropriationinthe proposed operating budget when adopting the ordinance establishing the City’s annual operating budget; and WHEREAS, during annual budget hearings, the Council receives general budget information from the outside agencies that receive funding from the City,including but not limited to,the Orleans Parish Sheriff (the “Sheriff”), the Orleans Parish District Attorney,and the Orleans Parish Criminal District Court; and WHEREAS, over the last eight years, the City Council has increased appropriations to the Sherifftoensurethat the parish jail, the Orleans Justice Center (the “OJC”), is fully staffed and in compliance with state and federal regulations concerning the operations of the OJC;and WHEREAS, the Sheriffhas full control and responsibilityover the OJC and those incarcerated therein; and WHEREAS, on Friday,May 16, 2025 ten inmates escaped from the OJC resulting in amulti-agency manhunt for the escapees; and WHEREAS, the Council’sCommittee of the Whole held apublic meeting jointly with the Council’sCriminal Justice Committee on May20, 2025 to discuss the escape, and several issues wereraised concerning the lack of transparency and accountabilityregarding the funding the Council provides the Sheriff’soffice; and WHEREAS, during the meeting, representatives from the Sheriff’s office requested additional appropriations for personnel and facility “improvements” but wereunable to answer councilmembers’ questions related to its funding and contracting; and WHEREAS, the City is facing direbudgetary issues and has made efforts to cut back spending and allocate funds whereabsolutely necessary and it is in the public’sinterest that the Council receive full transparency from

ASSISTANT CLERK OF COUNCIL

DM/jmr NOCP 8612

FROM: LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OFHEALTHAND HUMANSERVICES

–FUND 4405

Total Louisiana Department of Health and Human Services $32,778

TOTAL $32,778 TO: FEDERAL DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICESFUND 4145

Total Federal Department of Health and Human Services $32,778

TOTAL $32,778

ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL OFTHE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS JUNE 26, 2025 JP MORRELL

PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL

DELIVERED TO THE MAYOR ON JUNE 26, 2025

APPROVED: JULY 2, 2025

LATOYACANTRELL

MAYOR

RETURNED BY THE MAYOR ON JULY2,2025 AT 3:20 P.M.

AISHA R. COLLIER

ASSISTANT CLERK OF COUNCIL

ROLL CALL VOTE:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0

ABSENT:King -1

RECUSED: 0

ORDINANCE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS CITY HALL: May 22, 2025

CALENDAR NO. 35,113 NO. 30372 MAYOR COUNCIL SERIES

BY:COUNCILMEMBERSGIARRUSSO, MORENO, GREEN AND THOMAS (BYREQUEST) AN ORDINANCE to amend Ordinance No. 30140 M.C.S., as amended, entitled “An Ordinance Providing an Operating Budget of Expenditures for theCity of New Orleans for the Year 2025”, to move grant funds within theHealth Department from Fund 4405 to 4145, appropriation 200 –Other Operating to 100 –Personal Services for the purpose of delivering medication and medical supplies during alarge-scale public health emergency; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto. SECTION 1. THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEWORLEANS HEREBY ORDAINS, That Ordinance No. 30140 M.C.S., as amended, be amended to

–OTHER OPERATING $32,778 TOTAL$32,778 TO: FEDERAL DEPARTMENT OFHEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES–FUND 4145 HEALTH DEPARTMENT 100 –PERSONAL SERVICES $32,778 TOTAL$32,778 ADOPTED BYTHE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEWORLEANS JUNE 26, 2025 JP MORRELL PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL DELIVERED TO THE MAYOR ONJUNE 26, 2025 APPROVED: JULY2,2025 LATOYACANTRELL

MAYOR RETURNED BY THE MAYOR ON JULY2,2025 AT 3:20 P.M.

AISHA R. COLLIER ASSISTANT CLERK OF COUNCIL ROLL CALL VOTE:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6 NAYS: 0

ABSENT:King -1

RECUSED: 0

ORDINANCE

CITY OF NEW ORLEANS CITY HALL: May 8, 2025

CALENDAR NO. 35,114 NO. 30373 MAYOR COUNCIL SERIES

BY: COUNCILMEMBERSGIARRUSSO, MORENO,GREEN AND THOMAS (BYREQUEST) AN ORDINANCE to amend Ordinance No. 30139 M.C.S., as amended, entitled “An Ordinance Providing an Operating Budget of Revenues for the City of New Orleans for the Year 2025”, to appropriate additional grant funds to the Office of the Mayor to purchaseequipment and supplies for projects that areawarded on the FY23 State Homeland Security Grant; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto. SECTION 1. THE COUNCIL OFTHE CITY OF NEWORLEANS HEREBY

ORDAINS, That Ordinance No. 30139 M.C.S., as amended, be amended to authorize and direct the Director of Finance, notwithstanding any provision therein contained to the contrary,to transfer funds allocated therein as follows: FROM: INTERGOVERNMENTALREVENUES –FUND 6699

Intergovernmental Revenues Grants, Contributions, and Fund Transfers $8,600

TOTAL $8,600 TO: LOUISIANA MILITARYDEPARTMENT –FUND 4412

Total Louisiana Military Department $8,600

TOTAL$8,600

ADOPTED BYTHE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEWORLEANS JUNE 26, 2025 JP MORRELL PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL

DELIVERED TO THE MAYOR ON JUNE 26, 2025

APPROVED: JULY 2, 2025

LATOYACANTRELL

MAYOR RETURNED BY THE MAYOR ONJULY2,2025 AT 3:20 P.M.

AISHA R. COLLIER

ASSISTANT CLERK OF COUNCIL ROLL CALL VOTE:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris,Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0

ABSENT:King -1

RECUSED: 0 ORDINANCE

CITY OF NEW ORLEANS CITY HALL: May 22, 2025

CALENDARNO. 35,115 NO. 30374 MAYOR COUNCIL SERIES

BY:COUNCILMEMBERSGIARRUSSO,MORENO,GREEN AND THOMAS (BYREQUEST) AN ORDINANCE to amend Ordinance No. 30140 M.C.S., as amended, entitled “An Ordinance Providing an Operating Budget of

CITYOFNEW ORLEANS

CITYHALL: June 12, 2025 CALENDAR NO. 35,128 NO. 30375 MAYOR COUNCIL SERIES BY:COUNCILMEMBER THOMAS (BY REQUEST)

AN ORDINANCE to authorizethe Mayorofthe City of New Orleans to enter into Amendment No. 3toa previously executed Cooperative EndeavorAgreement (“CEA”) between the City of New Orleans (the “City”), andHealing Minds Nola relative to the public purposeofsupporting the New Orleans Assisted Outpatient Treatment (“AOT”) program’sabilityto coordinate physicians to conduct mental health evaluations forprospective AOTparticipants in compliance withthe Louisiana Revised Statutes 28:66 et seq and to compensate physicians forsamebyoperating the AOT programs through the Orleans Civil District Court and working to connect people in need of mental health treatment to appropriate resources through case management and courtsupervision; to modifythe provisions thereof and extend the termthereoffor one(1) additional year,asmorefully set forthinthe Amendment No.3form attached hereto as Exhibit “A” and made aparthereof; and otherwisetoprovidewith respect thereto WHEREAS, pursuant to the authoritycontained in Article 7, Section 14(C) of the Louisiana Constitutionof1974, and statutory authoritysupplemental thereto,the State of Louisiana and its political subdivisions, including the City,may enter into cooperative endeavors witheach other, or withany public or private corporationorindividual; and further pursuant to Section 9-314 of the Home Rule Charter of the City of New Orleans, the City may enter into cooperative endeavors withany public or private association, corporation, or individual for activities in support of economic growthand other public purposes; and WHEREAS, the City and Healing Minds Nola desiretomodifythe provisions of and extend the termthereoffor one(1) additional year,apreviously executed Cooperative EndeavorAgreement (CEA) between the City and Healing Minds Nola relative to the valued public purposeofsupporting the NewOrleans AOT program’sabilitytocoordinate physicians to conduct mental health evaluations forprospective AOT participants in compliance withthe Louisiana Revised Statutes 28:66 et seq and to compensate physicians forsamebyoperating the AOT programs through the Orleans Civil District Courtand workstoconnect people in need of mental health treatment to appropriate resources through case management and court supervision in the City of New Orleans; and WHEREAS, Healing Minds Nola will coordinate and payfor physician evaluations of AOTcandidates and the City will benefitfromthe program’s services by connecting citizens in need to mental health treatment and case management; and WHEREAS, the City and Healing Minds Nola desiretoenter into this Amendment No.3 to provide for supporting the New Orleans AOT program’s ability to coordinate physicians to conduct mental health evaluations for prospective AOT participants in compliance withthe Louisiana Revised Statutes 28:66 et seq and to compensate physicians forsameby operating the AOT programs through the Orleans Civil District Court and workstoconnect people in need of mental health treatment to appropriate resources through case management and courtsupervisionand to set forth certain other mattersinconnectiontherewith; NOW THEREFORE

SECTION 1. THECOUNCIL OF THECITYOFNEW ORLEANS HEREBY

ORDAINS, That the Mayor, on behalf of the City of New Orleans, is hereby authorized to enter into Amendment No. 3inthe form attached hereto as Exhibit “A”, to the previously executed Cooperative Endeavor Agreement (“CEA”) between the City of New Orleans (“City”) and Healing MindsNola to modifythe provisions of and extend the termthereoffor one(1) additional year said previously executed CEArelative to the valued public purposeofsupporting the New Orleans AOT program’sabilityto coordinate physicians to conduct mental health evaluations forprospective AOTparticipants in compliance withthe Louisiana Revised Statutes 28:66 et seq and to compensate physicians forsamebyoperating the AOT programs through the Orleans Civil District Court and working to connect people in need of mental health treatment to appropriate resources through case management and courtsupervisioninthe City of New Orleans.

SECTION 2. That, forthe purposeofexecuting the Amendment No.3to theCEA between the City and Healing Minds Nola, Rule 57 of the Rules andRegulations of the Council of the City of New Orleans is suspended SECTION 3. That said Amendment No.3 to the previously executed CEA is attached hereto as Exhibit “A” and incorporated and made aparthereof.

ADOPTED BY THECOUNCIL OF THECITYOFNEW ORLEANS JUNE 26, 2025 JP MORRELL PRESIDENT OF THECOUNCIL

DELIVERED TO THEMAYOR ON JUNE 26, 2025

APPROVED: JULY2,2025

LATOYA CANTRELL

MAYOR RETURNED BY THEMAYOR ON JULY2,2025 AT 3:20 P.M.

AISHA R. COLLIER

ASSISTANT CLERK OF COUNCIL

ROLL CALL VOTE:

YEAS: Giarrusso,Green, Harris,Moreno,Morrell, Thomas-6

NAYS: 0

ABSENT:King -1

RECUSED: 0 **Copies of the attachment may be seen in full in the ClerkofCouncil’s Office, 1300 Perdido Street, Room 1E09, City Hall.

ORDINANCE CITYOFNEW ORLEANS

CITYHALL: June 12, 2025

CALENDAR NO. 35,129 NO. 30376 MAYOR COUNCIL SERIES

BY:COUNCILMEMBER MORRELL AN ORDINANCE to amend and reordain Ordinance No.30,074 MCS regarding short-term rental platforms to verify eligibility of its listings, to extend the effective date of such ordinance; and otherwisetoprovidewith respect thereto SECTION 1. THECOUNCIL OF THECITYOFNEW ORLEANS HEREBY

ORDAINS, That Section 2ofOrdinance No. 30,074 MCSshall be amended and reordained to read as follows: SECTION 2. THECOUNCIL OF THECITYOFNEW ORLEANS HEREBY

ORDAINS, That the effective date of this ordinance shall be August 1, 2025.

ADOPTED BY THECOUNCIL OF THECITYOFNEW ORLEANS JUNE 26, 2025

JP MORRELL

PRESIDENT OF THECOUNCIL

DELIVERED TO THEMAYOR ON JUNE 26, 2025

APPROVED: JULY2,2025

LATOYA CANTRELL

MAYOR

RETURNED BY THEMAYOR ON JULY2,2025 AT 3:20 P.M.

AISHA R. COLLIER

ASSISTANT CLERK OF COUNCIL

ROLL CALL VOTE: YEAS: Giarrusso,Green, Harris,Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS: 0

ABSENT:King -1

RECUSED: 0

ORDINANCE CITYOFNEW ORLEANS

CITYHALL: June 12, 2025

CALENDAR NO. 35,130 NO. 30377 MAYOR COUNCIL SERIES

BY:COUNCILMEMBER MORENO(BY REQUEST)

AN ORDINANCE to amend and reordain Section 146-569 of the Code of the City of New Orleans to provide for regulations relative to electric vehicle chargers;and otherwisetoprovidewith respect thereto

SECTION 1. THECOUNCIL OF THECITYOFNEW ORLEANS HEREBY

ORDAINS, That Section 146-569 of the Code of the City of New Orleans is hereby amended and reordained to read as follows: “Sec. 146-569. –Approved equipment.

(a) Equipment shall be certified to current standards by anationally recognized testing laboratory (such as UL or ETL)and listed and approved forelectric vehicle use.

(b) Equipment shall comply withSociety of Automotive Engineers (SAE) J1772-2009 standards,oracomparable standardasdetermined by the directorofsafety and permits, including safety features between the electric vehicle chargerand the electric vehicle. These safety features include, but arenot limited to:

(1) Ground fault circuit interrupter(s).

(2) Proximity detectionand signaling

(3) Power mayonly be suppliedfromthe electric vehicle chargerafter the device has determined aproperand safe connectionbetween the electric vehicle chargerand the electric vehicle.

(c) Typesofelectric vehicle chargerauthorized: (1) Level 1Chargers witha powerlevel of 110 to 120 VACand up to 20 Amps (2) Level 2Chargers with apowerlevel of 208 to 240 VACand up to 100 Amps (3) Level 3Chargers and Fast DC Chargerswith acapacity of up to 150kW

(4)The directorofthe department of safety and permitsmay authorizean electric vehicle chargernot described in paragraphs(1) through (3) above provided that the directorcreates amemodetailing whythe approved electric vehicle chargersubstantively complieswith the standards of this sectionand doesnot poseadanger to public health and safety (d) Power shall, under no circumstance, be provided to an electric vehicle parked on the right-of-wayvia extension cord that is runfroma dwelling acrossasidewalk and to the right-of-way. Such configuration constitutes apublic nuisance and is in violation of the city’sadopted constructioncodes.” ADOPTED BY THECOUNCIL OF THECITYOFNEW ORLEANS JUNE 26, 2025 JP MORRELL PRESIDENT OF THECOUNCIL

DELIVERED TO THEMAYOR ON JUNE 26, 2025

APPROVED:

ASSISTANTCLERK OF COUNCIL ROLL CALL VOTE: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas-6 NAYS: 0 ABSENT:King-1 RECUSED: 0 ENGROSSED VERSION: “Chapter 146 –STREETS, SIDEWALKSAND OTHER PUBLIC PLACES

ARTICLE VI. –OBSTRUCTIONS,CUTTINGINTOAND USE, OF STREETS *** DIVISION 4A. –ELECTIC VEHICLES CHARGERS

Sec. 146-569. –Approvedequipment. (a) Equipment shall be certified to current standards UL Standard2202 by a nationally recognizedtesting laboratory (suchasULorETL) andlisted and approvedfor electric vehicle use. (b) Equipment shall comply with SocietyofAutomotive Engineers (SAE) J1772-2009 standards, or acomparable standardasdeterminedbythe

-6 NAYS:

mayenter into cooperative endeavors with each other, or with any public or private corporation or individual; and further pursuant to Section 9-314 of the Home Rule Charter of the CityofNew Orleans, the Citymay enter into cooperative endeavors with any public or private association, corporation, or individual for activities in support of economicgrowth and otherpublic purposes; and WHEREAS, Blue Krewe is alocal, registered501(c)(3), whose mission and goalistooperate acommunity run bike sharesystem in the CityofNew Orleans, and; WHEREAS, the Cityand Blue Krewe desiretoextend the term of the existingCEA in order to accomplishthe valued public purpose of operating the New Orleansbike shareprogram; NOW THEREFORE SECTION I. THECOUNCIL OF THECITY OF NEW ORLEANS HEREBY ORDAINS, That the Mayor,onbehalf of the City, is hereby authorizedto enter into Amendment No.1,inthe form attached hereto as Exhibit “1”, to the previously executed CEA between the CityofNew Orleansand Blue Krewe to extend the term thereoffor an additional forty (40) months of the saidpreviouslyexecuted CEA relativetothe valued public purpose of operating the New Orleansbike shareprogram. SECTION 2. That saidAmendment No.1 to the CEA areattached to this ordinance as Exhibit “1” andincorporated and made aparthereof.

ADOPTED BY THECOUNCIL OF THECITY OF NEW ORLEANS JUNE 26, 2025 JP MORRELL

PRESIDENT OF THECOUNCIL

DELIVERED TO THEMAYOR ON JUNE 26, 2025

APPROVED: JULY2,2025

LATOYA CANTRELL

MAYOR RETURNED BY THEMAYOR ON JULY2,2025 AT 3:20 P.M.

AISHAR.COLLIER ASSISTANTCLERK OF COUNCIL

ROLL CALL VOTE: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas-6

NAYS: 0 ABSENT:King-1 RECUSED: 0 **Copies of the attachmentmay be seen in full in the ClerkofCouncil’s Office, 1300 Perdido Street, Room 1E09, CityHall. ORDINANCE (AS CORRECTED) CITYOFNEW ORLEANS CITYHALL: June 12, 2025 CALENDARNO. 35,132 NO. 30379 MAYORCOUNCIL SERIES BY:COUNCILMEMBER GIARRUSSO (BY REQUEST) AN ORDINANCE authorizing the Mayor of the CityofNew Orleanstoenter into aCooperative Endeavor Agreementbetween the CityofNew Orleans (“City”) and Blue Krewe, fora term greater than one year,for the public purpose of expandingthe bike shareprograminthe CityofNew Orleans, as morefully detailed in the Cooperative Endeavor Agreementform attached hereto as Exhibit “A”; andotherwise to provide with respect thereto WHEREAS, pursuant to the authority contained in Article 7, Section14(C) of the Louisiana Constitution of 1974, and statutory authority supplemental thereto,the State of Louisiana and itspolitical subdivisions, includingthe City, mayenter into cooperative endeavors with each other, or with any public or private corporation or individual; and further pursuant to Section 9-314 of the Home Rule Charter of the CityofNew Orleans, the Citymay enter into cooperative endeavors with any public or private association, corporation, or individual for activities in support of economicgrowth and otherpublic purposes; and WHEREAS, Blue Krewe is alocal, registered501(c)3, whose mission and goalistooperate acommunity run bike sharesystem in the CityofNew Orleans; and WHEREAS, as partofthe City’sEnvironmental ProtectionAgencyClimate Pollution Reduction Grant (“CPRG”)programaward, Blue Krewe is asubrecipient of federal funds forthe purpose of expandingthe bike share system consistent with the City’sClimate Action Plan and the City’sCPRG funding award; and WHEREAS, the Cityand Blue Krewe desiretoenter into acooperative endeavoragreementinorder to accomplishthe valued public purpose of expandingthe bike sharesystem in the CityofNew Orleans; NOW THEREFORE SECTION I. THECOUNCIL OF THECITY OF NEW ORLEANS HEREBY ORDAINS, That the Mayor,onbehalf of the CityofNew Orleans, is hereby authorized to enter into the attached cooperative endeavoragreementwith Blue Krewe, fora term of five years, forthe public purpose of expandingthe bike sharesystem in the CityofNew Orleans. SECTION 2. That saidCooperative Endeavor Agreementisattached to this ordinance as Exhibit “A” and incorporatedand made aparthereof. ADOPTED BY THECOUNCIL OF THECITY OF NEW ORLEANS JUNE 26, 2025 JP MORRELL PRESIDENT OF THECOUNCIL DELIVERED TO THEMAYOR ON JUNE 26, 2025 APPROVED: JULY2,2025

LATOYA CANTRELL MAYOR RETURNED BY THEMAYOR ON JULY2,2025 AT 3:20 P.M.

AISHAR.COLLIER ASSISTANTCLERK OF COUNCIL ROLL CALL VOTE: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas-6 NAYS: 0 ABSENT:King-1

RECUSED: 0 **Copies of the attachmentmay be seen in full in the ClerkofCouncil’s Office, 1300 Perdido Street, Room 1E09, CityHall. ORDINANCE (AS AMENDED) CITYOFNEW ORLEANS CITYHALL: June 12, 2025 CALENDARNO. 35,135 NO. 30380 MAYORCOUNCIL SERIES BY:COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO,MORRELL, MORENO,HARRIS, KING, GREEN ANDTHOMAS AN ORDINANCE to amendand re-ordain Ordinance No. 30,141 M.C.S., entitled “An Ordinance Providing aCapital Budget forthe Year 2025”, to effect the followingchange to the 2025 Capital Budget: to appropriate unencumbered bond funds to TulaneUniversity forCharity Hospital redevelopment efforts in additiontocapital expenditures consistent with TulaneDowntown plans; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto SECTION I. THECOUNCIL OF THECITY OF NEW ORLEANS HEREBY

ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL OFTHE CITY OF NEWORLEANSJUNE 26, 2025

MORRELL PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL DELIVERED TO THE MAYOR ON JUNE 26, 2025

APPROVED: DISAPPROVED:

MAYOR

RETURNED BY THE MAYOR ON JULY7,2025 AT 11:45 A.M.

AISHA R. COLLIER

ASSISTANT CLERK OF COUNCIL ROLL CALL VOTE:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS:0

ABSENT:King -1

RECUSED: 0 THIS IS TO CERTIFY THATTHE ABOVEORDINANCE VETOED BY THE MAYOR WASRETURNED TO THE CLERK OFCOUNCILAND AT THE COUNCIL’S NEXT REGULAR MEETING OFJULY10, 2025, THE COUNCIL

VOTED 7YEAS AND 0NAYSTOOVERRULE THE MAYOR’S VETO.

ORDINANCE

CITY OF NEW ORLEANS CITY HALL: June 12, 2025

CALENDAR NO. 35,136 NO. 30381 MAYOR COUNCIL SERIES BY:COUNCILMEMBER GREEN AN ORDINANCE To amend and reordain Section 54-151(d) of the Code of the City of NewOrleans, relative to graffiti, to increase the maximum penalties for violations related to graffiti, and otherwise to provide with respect thereto. WHEREAS, the City Council finds that these amendments serve the public interest and promote public health, safety,and welfare; and WHEREAS, the increased penalties areintended to reflect the seriousness of the offense and to provide restitution and community-based remedies; and WHEREAS, the City Council seeks to deter graffiti and hold offenders accountable by increasing penalties for violations; and WHEREAS, the City of New Orleans expends significant public resources to remove graffiti and restoredamaged property; and WHEREAS, graffiti is apersistent public nuisance that defaces public and private property,lowers property values, and contributes to urban blight; NOWTHEREFORE SECTION 1. THE COUNCIL OFTHE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS HEREBY ORDAINS, That Section 54-151 of the Code of the City of New Orleans, Louisiana is amended to read as follows: “Chapter 54 –CRIMINAL CODE *** ARTICLE IV.–OFFENSES AGAINST PROPERTY

Sec. 54-151. –Criminal damage to property

(d) Penalties. Aviolation of this section is amisdemeanor punishable by municipal court, as follows:

(1) Any person who violates subsection (b)(1), (2) or (3) of this section shall be punished by each of the following:

a. A fine of not less than $500 or morethan $1,000.

b. Communityservice for the cleansing and restoration of property defaced by graffiti in violation of this section, according to the following schedule:

1. For a first offense, not less than 21 hours or morethan 35 hours

2. For subsequent offenses, not less than 42 hours or morethan 70 hours.

c. Complete financial restitution necessary to cover the costs of restoring any property defaced by the person’sactions

d. If aminor is personally unable to pay the fine or financial restitution required under this section, the custodian of the minor shall be liable only if the court finds that the custodian failed to exercise reasonable supervision Any courtofcompetent jurisdiction may waivesuch payment by the custodian upon a finding of good cause, including undue financial hardship.

(2)The court may,inits discretion, in addition to the above penalties, order imprisonmentinjail for not morethan sixmonths for any offense of subsection (b)(1), (2) or (3) of this section.

(3) The custodian of aminor who is penalized under this section shall accompany the minor to at least one-half of community service ordered by thecourt (4) Every person who, having been convicted previously under subsection (b)(1), (2) or (3) of this section or any combination of these offenses, on twoseparate occasions, and having been incarcerated pursuant to a sentence, aconditional sentence or agrant of probation for at least one of the convictions, is subsequently convicted under this section shall be punished by imprisonment nottoexceed five months

(5)Any operator who violates subsection (b)(4) of this section shall be fined not less than $50.00 for a firstoffense and not less than $100.00 for subsequent offenses.

(6) Punishment for violation of subsection (c) may be adjudicated pursuant to the administrative hearing process of chapter 6ofthe City Code and shall not exceed the penalties prescribed in subsections (1) or (2) of this subsection. (e) ***.” SECTION 2. That the provisions of this ordinance shall become effective upon approval by the Mayor or upon expiration of ten days from the date of delivery to the Mayor if not approved or vetoed.

ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NEW ORLEANS JUNE 26, 2025 JP MORRELL PRESIDENT OF THE COUNCIL

DELIVERED TO THE MAYOR ONJUNE 26, 2025

APPROVED: JULY 2, 2025

LATOYACANTRELL

MAYOR RETURNED BY THE MAYOR ONJULY2,2025 AT 3:20 P.M.

AISHA R. COLLIER ASSISTANT CLERK OF COUNCIL ROLL CALL VOTE:

YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas -6

NAYS:0 ABSENT:King -1

RECUSED: 0 ENGROSSED VERSION: “Sec. 54-151. –Criminal damage

sentence,

five months. (5) Any operatorwho violates subsection (b)(4) of this sectionshall be fined notless than $50.00 fora firstoffense and notless than $100.00 for subsequent offenses. (6) Punishment for violation of subsection(c) maybeadjudicated pursuant to the administrative hearing process of chapter 6ofthe City Code and shall notexceed the penalties prescribed in subsections (1) or (2) of this subsection. (e) ***”

ORDINANCE

CITYOFNEW ORLEANS

CITYHALL: June 12, 2025

CALENDAR NO. 35,138 NO. 30382 MAYOR COUNCIL SERIES

BY:COUNCILMEMBER MORENO(BY REQUEST)

AN ORDINANCE to authorize the Mayorofthe City of New Orleans to enter into Amendment No.1toapreviously executed Cooperative Endeavor Agreement (“CEA”) between the City of New Orleans (“City”) and the New Orleans Community Support Foundationrelative to the valued public purposeofadministering the Youth Climate Action Fund to fund youthledclimate initiatives in support of the New Orleans Climate Action Plan, to extend the termthereoffor an additional sixteen months, increase the funding $100,000, and modifythe obligations of the parties, as more fully detailed in the Amendment No.1 to the Cooperative EndeavorAgreement attached hereto as Exhibit “A”; and otherwisetoprovidewith respect thereto. WHEREAS, pursuant to the authoritycontained in Article 7, Section 14(C) of the Louisiana Constitutionof1974, and statutory authoritysupplemental thereto, the State of Louisiana and its political subdivisions, including the City,may enter into cooperative endeavors witheach other, or withany public or private corporationorindividual; and further pursuant to Section 9-314 of the Home Rule Charter of the City of New Orleans, the City may enter into cooperative endeavors withany public or private association, corporation, or individual for activities in support of economic growthand other public purposes; and WHEREAS, the New Orleans Community Support Foundationisalocal, registered 501(c)3, whosemission and goalistoadminister charitable distributions to nonprofits and other partnersinfurtherance of certain initiatives of the City of New Orleans and other public and private partners, and; WHEREAS, the City and New Orleans Community Support Foundation desiretoextend the term, increase the funding, and amend the obligations of bothparties in the existing Cooperative EndeavorAgreement in orderto accomplish the valued public purposeofadministering the Youth Climate ActionFund to fund youth-led climate initiatives in support of theNew Orleans Climate Action Plan; NOW THEREFORE

SECTION I. THECOUNCIL OF THECITYOFNEW ORLEANS HEREBY

ORDAINS, That the Mayor, on behalf of the City of New Orleans, is hereby authorized to enter into Amendment No. 1, in the form attached hereto as Exhibit “A”, to the previously executed Cooperative EndeavorAgreement between the City of New Orleans and the New Orleans Community Support Foundationtoextend the termthereof foranadditional sixteen months, increase the funding $100,000, and modifythe obligations of thesaid previously executed CEArelative to the valued public purpose of administering the Youth Climate Action Fund to fund youth-led climate initiatives in support of the New Orleans Climate Action Plan. SECTION 2. That said Amendment No.1 to the Cooperative Endeavor Agreement is attached to this ordinance as Exhibit “A” and incorporated andmadeaparthereof.

ADOPTED BY THECOUNCIL OF THECITYOFNEW ORLEANS JUNE 26, 2025 JP MORRELL PRESIDENT OF THECOUNCIL

DELIVERED TO THEMAYOR ON JUNE 26, 2025

APPROVED: JULY2,2025

LATOYA CANTRELL MAYOR RETURNED BY THEMAYOR ON JULY2,2025 AT 3:20 P.M.

AISHA R. COLLIER

ASSISTANT CLERK OF COUNCIL

ROLL CALL VOTE:

YEAS: Giarrusso,Green, Harris Moreno,Morrell, Thomas-6

NAYS: 0 ABSENT:King -1 RECUSED: 0 **Copiesofthe attachment may be seen in full in the ClerkofCouncil’s Office, 1300 Perdido Street, Room 1E09, City Hall.

ORDINANCE CITYOFNEW ORLEANS CITYHALL: June 12, 2025 CALENDAR NO. 35,139 NO. 30383 MAYOR COUNCIL SERIES BY:COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO, MORENO, GREEN AND THOMAS (BYREQUEST) AN ORDINANCE to amend Ordinance No.30139 M.C.S., as amended entitled “An Ordinance Providing an Operating BudgetofRevenues forthe City of New Orleans forthe Year 2025”, to appropriate Private Funds to theHealth Department for FY25expenses; and otherwisetoprovidewith respect thereto SECTION 1. THECOUNCIL OF THECITYOFNEW ORLEANS HEREBY

ORDAINS, That Ordinance No.30139 M.C.S., as amended,beamended to authorize and direct the Director of Finance, notwithstanding any provision therein contained to the contrary, to transfer fundsallocated therein as follows: FROM: INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVENUES –FUND 6699

Intergovernmental Revenues Grants, Contributions, and Fund Transfers$26,942

TOTAL$26,942 TO:LOCAL FOUNDATION GRANTS– FUND 4900

Total Local FoundationGrants $26,942

TOTAL$26,942

ADOPTED BY THECOUNCIL OF THECITYOFNEW ORLEANS JUNE 26, 2025 JP MORRELL

PRESIDENT OF THECOUNCIL

DELIVERED TO THEMAYOR ON JUNE 26, 2025

APPROVED: JULY2,2025

LATOYA CANTRELL

MAYOR

RETURNED BY THEMAYOR ON JULY2,2025 AT 3:20 P.M.

AISHA R. COLLIER

ASSISTANT CLERK OF COUNCIL

ROLL CALL VOTE:

YEAS: Giarrusso,Green, Harris,Moreno,Morrell, Thomas-6

NAYS: 0

ABSENT:King -1 RECUSED: 0

ORDINANCE CITYOFNEW ORLEANS CITYHALL: June 12, 2025

CALENDAR NO. 35,140 NO. 30384 MAYOR COUNCIL SERIES BY:COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO, MORENO, GREEN AND THOMAS (BY REQUEST) AN ORDINANCE to amend Ordinance No.30140 M.C.S., as amended entitled “An Ordinance Providing an Operating BudgetofExpenditures for the City of New Orleans forthe Year 2025”, to appropriate Private Funds to the Health Department forFY25 expenses; and otherwisetoprovidewith respect thereto SECTION 1. THECOUNCIL OF THECITYOFNEW ORLEANS HEREBY ORDAINS, That Ordinance No.30140 M.C.S., as amended,beamended to authorizeand direct the Director of Finance, notwithstanding any provision therein contained to the contrary, to transfer fundsallocated therein as follows: FROM: INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVENUES -FUND 6699 INTERGOVERNMENTAL 600 –GRANTS, CONTR. AND FUND TRANSFERS $26,942

TOTAL$26,942 TO:PRIVATEGRANTS –FUND 4900 HEALTH DEPARTMENT 200 –OTHER OPERATING $26,942

TOTAL$26,942 ADOPTED BY THECOUNCIL

DELIVERED TO THEMAYOR ON JUNE 26, 2025

APPROVED: JULY2,2025 LATOYA CANTRELL

MAYOR RETURNED BY THEMAYOR ON JULY2,2025 AT 3:20 P.M.

AISHAR.COLLIER ASSISTANTCLERK OF COUNCIL ROLL CALL VOTE: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris, Moreno, Morrell, Thomas- 6 NAYS: 0

ABSENT:King- 1

RECUSED: 0

ORDINANCE (AS CORRECTED) CITYOFNEW ORLEANS CITYHALL: June 12, 2025 CALENDARNO. 35,142 NO. 30386 MAYORCOUNCIL SERIES BY:COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO,MORENO, GREEN ANDTHOMAS (BY REQUEST) AN ORDINANCE to amendOrdinance No.30140 M.C.S as amended, entitled “An Ordinance Providing an OperatingBudget of Expenditures forthe CityofNew Orleansfor the Year 2025”, to appropriate grant funds received from NACCHO (National AssociationofCounty and City HealthOfficials) to the New OrleansHealth Department to create amedia campaigntoincrease Syphilis awarenessand linkagetocareinOrleans Parish; and otherwise to provide with respect thereto SECTION 1. THECOUNCIL OF THECITY OF NEW ORLEANS HEREBY ORDAINS, That Ordinance No.30140 M.C.S as amended, be amended to authorize and direct the DirectorofFinance, notwithstanding anyprovision therein contained to the contrary,totransfer funds allocated therein as follows: FROM: INTERGOVERNMENTAL REVENUES -FUND 6699 INTERGOVERNMENTAL 600 –GRANTS, CONTR. ANDFUND TRANSFERS $5,203 TOTAL$5,203 TO:FEDERALDEPARTMENTOFHEALTHAND HUMAN SERVICES –FUND 4145

HEALTHDEPARTMENT 200 –OTHER OPERATING$5,203 TOTAL$5,203 ADOPTED BY THECOUNCIL OF THECITY OF NEW ORLEANS JUNE 26, 2025 JP MORRELL PRESIDENT OF THECOUNCIL DELIVERED TO THEMAYOR ON JUNE 26, 2025

APPROVED: JULY2,2025

LATOYA CANTRELL MAYOR RETURNED BY THEMAYOR ON JULY2,2025 AT 3:20 P.M.

AISHAR.COLLIER ASSISTANTCLERK OF COUNCIL ROLL CALL VOTE: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green,Harris, Moreno,Morrell, Thomas- 6 NAYS:0 ABSENT:King- 1 RECUSED: 0 ORDINANCE CITYOFNEW ORLEANS CITYHALL: June 12, 2025 CALENDARNO. 35,146 NO. 30387 MAYORCOUNCIL SERIES BY:COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO,MORENO, GREEN ANDTHOMAS (BY REQUEST) AN ORDINANCE to amend Ordinance No.30139 M.C.S as amended, entitled “An Ordinance Providing an OperatingBudget of Revenues for the CityofNew Orleansfor the Year 2025”, to move grant funds within the HealthDepartment from Fund 4405 to 4145, appropriation200Other Operatingto100 -Personal Services forthe purpose of delivering medication and medical supplies during alarge-scale public health emergency; andotherwise to provide with respect thereto SECTION 1. THECOUNCIL OF THECITY OF NEW ORLEANS HEREBY ORDAINS, That Ordinance No.30139 M.C.S., as amended, be amended to authorize and direct the Director of Finance, notwithstanding any provision therein contained to the contrary,totransfer funds allocated therein as follows: FROM: LOUISIANA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTHAND HUMAN SERVICES –FUND 4405

Total LouisianaDepartment of Healthand HumanServices $32,778 TOTAL$32,778 TO:FEDERALDEPARTMENTOFHEALTHAND HUMAN SERVICESFUND 4145

Total Federal Department of Healthand HumanServices $32,778 TOTAL$32,778 ADOPTED BY THECOUNCIL OF THECITY OF NEW ORLEANS JUNE 26, 2025 JP MORRELL PRESIDENT OF THECOUNCIL DELIVERED TO THEMAYOR ON JUNE 26, 2025 APPROVED: JULY2,2025 LATOYA CANTRELL MAYOR RETURNED BY THEMAYOR ON JULY2,2025 AT 3:20 P.M. AISHAR.COLLIER ASSISTANTCLERK OF COUNCIL ROLL CALL VOTE: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris, Moreno,Morrell, Thomas-6 NAYS:0 ABSENT:King-1 RECUSED: 0 ORDINANCE CITYOFNEW ORLEANS CITYHALL: June 12, 2025 CALENDARNO. 35,147 NO. 30388 MAYORCOUNCIL SERIES BY:COUNCILMEMBERS GIARRUSSO,MORENO, GREEN ANDTHOMAS (BY REQUEST) AN ORDINANCE to amend Ordinance No.30140 M.C.S as amended, entitled “An Ordinance Providing an OperatingBudget of Expenditures for the CityofNew Orleansfor

emergency; andotherwise to provide with respect thereto SECTION 1. THECOUNCIL OF THECITY OF NEW ORLEANS HEREBY ORDAINS, That Ordinance No.30140 M.C.S., as amended, be amended to authorize and direct the DirectorofFinance, notwithstanding any provision therein contained to the contrary,totransfer funds

APPROVED: JULY2,2025

LATOYA CANTRELL MAYOR RETURNED BY THEMAYOR ON JULY2,2025 AT 3:20 P.M.

AISHAR.COLLIER ASSISTANTCLERK OF COUNCIL

ROLL CALL VOTE: YEAS: Giarrusso, Green, Harris, Moreno,Morrell, Thomas-6

NAYS:0 ABSENT:King-1

RECUSED: 0 NOCP 8613

with meteorologist DamonSingleton

SUBDIVISIONDOCKETS 044-25 and075-25 SD044-25 Resubdivision of LotX-1-A into Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, and17in Square 57, Versailles Gar‐dens Area IV (East),Third MunicipalDistrictand bounded by Dwyer Boulevard, Willowbrook Drive, SixFlags Parkway, andAlcee FortierBoule‐vard.Municipal ad‐dressesare 14051-14071 DwyerRoad. (PolicyE) SD075-25 Resubdivision of LotRB-XintoLotsRBX1 andRB-X2 in Stanton Plantation,situatedin Section11, Township 13 South, Range25East, FifthMunicipalDistrict andbounded by Stanton Road,WillowDrive DelacroixRoad, andEng‐lish Turn.Municipal ad‐dressis1600 Stanton Road.(Policy D) THECITYPLANNING COMMISSIONWILLHEAR PROPONENTS ANDOPPO‐NENTSTOTHE ABOVE PROPOSED SUBDIVISION. ALLINTERESTEDPARTIES AREENCOURAGEDTOAT‐TEND ANDALL RELEVANT COMMENTSCONCERNING THEPROPOSEDCHANGES AREENCOURAGED. THE CPCHAS ESTABLISHED PUBLIC HEARINGRULES WITHIN ITSADMINISTRA‐TIVE RULES, POLICIES & PROCEDURES,WHICH AREAVAILABLE ON THE CPCWEBSITE: WWW NOLA.GOV/CPC.YOU MAY ALSO SUBMIT WRITTEN COMMENTS TO THEEX‐ECUTIVEDIRECTORIN ADVANCEBYMAIL(1300 PERDIDOSTREET,7TH FLOOR,NEW ORLEANS, LA 70112) OR EMAIL CPCINFO@NOLA.GOV.ALL WRITTENCOMMENTS MUST BE RECEIVED BY CLOSEOFBUSINESSON THEMONDAY, EIGHT DAYS PRIORTOTHE HEARINGDATE. September4,11 and18, 2025 Robert Rivers ExecutiveDirector NOCP 8605 156395-sept 4-11-18-3t $106.29

p p of preservation and uti‐lization of StateParks Properties while becom‐ingmore financiallyselfsustaining,and better servethe needsofciti‐zens andofvisitorsto Louisianathrough collab‐orationutilizing Public PrivatePartnerships. TheRFI packet,which in‐cludes atimeline, in‐structions forproposal submission,and selec‐tion criteria,isavailable at http://www.opportu nitiesinlouisiana.com. It mayalsobepickedup between 9a.m.and 4 p.m. weekdays at theOf‐fice of StatePark, Capitol Annex, ThirdFloor,1051 NorthThird Street,Baton Rouge, LA,70802. Written Proposalsmustbere‐ceived by StateParks at this addressnolater than 4:00 p.m. CT onFri‐day, October31, 2024. StateParks will continue itscommitmenttoen‐sure allprojectspromote ourmission statement, have community sup‐port,and supportoflocal andstate electedoffi‐cials. StateParks also commitstonot proceed with anyprojectsthat will be detrimentaltothe localcommunity or any localbusiness.

Allinquiries concerning theRFI should be submit‐ted in writingtothe Issu‐ingOfficer, BrettSan‐difer, at bsandifer@crt. la.gov 157440-SEP10-OCT9 $579.96

all thebuildings andim‐provements thereon, all rights,ways, privileges, servitudes,appurte‐nances andadvantages thereuntobelonging or in anywiseappertaining sit‐uatedinthe Parish of Jef‐ferson,State of La., on the“estBankofthe Mis‐sissippi River, in thesub‐division knownasHAR‐VEYCANAL SUBDIVISION, allasmorefully shown on copy of mapofpor‐tion of said subdivision by C. A. Robert,C.E datedNovember5,1952 copy on file in theoffice of theClerk of Court, Jef‐ferson Parish,and desig‐natedand describedin accordance with said mapasall of LOT#4and portion of LOT#3adjoin‐ingLot #4,inSQUARE #51, said square being bounded by Estalote and Pailet Avenues, 34thand 36thStreets. PortionofLot #3 mea‐sures3 feet 3inches frontonPailetAvenue a width in therearof19 feet 4inchesbya depth on thesidelineseparat‐ingitfromLot #4 of 120 feet,a depth on theother side line of 121 feet 0 inches 5lines.Saidpor‐tion of Lot#3immedi‐atelyadjoins Lot#4. Lot#4measures25feet frontonPailetAvenue similarwidth in therear, by adepth of 120 feet be‐tween equaland parallel lines.

Orleans on Saturday,October 11, 2025, and that at saidelection therewill be submitted to allregisteredvotersresiding in theCityofNew Orleans who arequalified and entitled to vote at thesaidelection under the Constitutionand laws of theState of Louisiana and theConstitution of theUnited States,the following proposition: “CHARTER PROPOSITION ShallArticleII, Section 2-202(6) of theHomeRuleCharter of theCityofNew Orleans be amended to provide that no lawshallarbitrarily and unreasonablydiscriminate against a person based on conviction history?”

The election will be heldateach and everypollingplace in theCity of NewOrleans, which polls will open at 7:00 a.m. and close at 8:00 p.m.,inaccordance with theprovisions of La. R.S. 18:541.

The estimatedcost of this election, as determined by theLouisiana SecretaryofState, based upon theprovisions of Title18, Chapter 8A of theLouisiana Revised Statutes and actual costs of similarelections is $30,100.

The Council, acting under thepowersgranted to it by theCity Charterand state statutes,will meet in open and public session or in theCouncilChamber,CityHall, 1300 Perdido Street, NewOrleans, Louisiana, 70112, on Thursday,November 20, 2025, beginning at 10:00 a.m. and will proceed to examineand canvass thereturns and declarethe resultofthe election.

Beingpartofthe same property acquired by WilliamS.Resor from Dom, Inc. by actbefore John F. Stafford,N.P on December 31, 1954, regis‐teredinCOB.371 folio 227, Parish of Jefferson, La TheAdministratrix, seeksanorder authoriz‐ingher to sell thees‐tate’s undividedone-half (1/2)interestinthe aforedescribed property forthe priceand

dent’s

above-describedundi‐videdimmoveable

erty

GIVENTOALL

cludingthe heirsand creditorsofthe Decedent herein,and of this estate be orderedtomakeany opposition which they have,ormay have,to such application, at any time,prior to theis‐suanceofthe orderor judgmentauthorizing approvingand homolo‐gatingsuchapplication, and that such orderor judgmentmay be issued after theexpirationof seven(7) days, from the d f h l bli

Sept. 11, 2025

‘The Baltimorons’: New Orleans director’s dramatic comedy page 9

LOCALS’ Fest: Celebrate in Armstrong Park page 3

don’t miss don’t miss don’t miss

nola river fest

It starts in Minnesota, but the Mississippi River is all about New Orleans, especially at 11 a.m. Saturday when a second-line heads from Jackson Square to the New Orleans Jazz Museum, 400 Esplanade Ave., where the Mighty Mississippi and the culture of the Crescent City will be featured as “Louisiana’s Native Food ,” al g with

los isleños

seafood fundraiser

Neptune’s harvest will be on the menu from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday at the Frank M. Fernádez Los Isleños Center, 1357 Bayou Road, St. Bernard. The tasty evening of dining and community benefits the society that works to maintain the culture of the Canary Islanders who settled throughout south Louisiana. Prices start at $17. losislenos.org.

‘spinal tap II: the end continues’

Filmed here with local crew and talent, the sequel to the cult hit will be screened at 4 p.m. Saturday at the Broad heatre, 636 Broad St. (A 7 p.m. screening is sold out.) The mockumentary about a rock band reunites Harry Shearer, Sir Christopher Guest, Michael McKean and Rob Reiner. The New Orleans Film Society event kicks off the countdown to the annual film fest in October. neworleansfilmsociety.org.

the mortuary

In need of a fright? The creep-tastic castle of gloom and doom at 4800 Canal St. opens its “Origins of Evil” season at 7:30 p.m. Saturday Tickets start at $30 and must be purchased for specific times through Nov. 8. themortuary.net.

summer gala concert

New Orleans native Emily Treigle will be the voice for the Amici concert at 5 p.m. Saturday at Christ Church Cathedral, 2919 St. Charles Ave. The winner of the Laffont competition, the mezzosoprano will debut with the New Orleans and Metropolitan operas this year. Amici is the local organization that bolsters the regional auditions for the Met. Tickets start at $65; a Champagne reception will follow. amicisings.org.

ABOUT LAGNIAPPE

The Lagniappe section is published each Thursday by The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate. All inquiries about Lagniappe should be directed to the editor. LAGNIAPPE EDITOR: Annette Sisco, asisco@ theadvocate.com

COVER DESIGN: Andrea Daniel

CONTRIBUTING

WRITERS: Victor Andrews, Leslie Cardé Jake Clapp, Matt Haines, Doug MacCash, Keith Spera

GET LISTED IN LAGNIAPPE

Submit events to Lagniappe at least two weeks in advance by sending an email to events@theadvocate. com.

ON THE COVER

New Orleans culture writer Sue Strachan’s new book looks into the obituary cocktail’s long history in the Big Easy. Photo by Chris Granger. Story by Matt Haines on Page 6.

Treigle

music music music

Free LOCALS’Festhighlightshomegrown talent

BY JAKE CLAPP Gambit Weekly

Ryan Batiste has afew dreams for LOCALS’Fest whenever he takes alook aroundLouis Armstrong Park.

“I go to the park pretty frequently,and Isee fourstages, which would be the most stages they’ve put into the park,” said Batiste, who organizes LOCALS’ Fest and performs as Shaggadelic. “The park is beautiful. There’sa lot of space you candostuff.”

Four stagesofmusic is an ambitious goal,and Batisteismaking progress. When LOCALS’ Fest returns to Armstrong Park for its sixthedition on Saturday,there will be two stages of music for the first time as well as expanded VIP offerings.

This year’sLOCALS’Fest will feature performancesbythe brass bands Kings

of Brass, Sporty’sBrass Bandand Bettis &3rd Degree; rapper Kr3wcial and his live band More Love; theAmbush Reggae Band; singer-songwriter Janai McGee; and Mike “Dizzle” Jones, of the Next Level Band. Batiste alsowill perform with his band Raw Revolution, and there will be sets by DJs 504 Millz and Spin Griffey

Alongwith highlighting homegrown music, LOCALS’Fest (“Loving Our Community As Louisiana”) will feature food and drink vendors, artists and crafts people and other small businesses with tables.

General admission is free, as is parking at the Mahalia Jackson Theater parking lot,Batiste said. VIP passes get an air-conditioned bathroom, private bar with two drink tickets and an elevated viewing area.

Batiste, who grew up in thelarge

Batiste family of musicians, learned to play music by watching his father,funk mainstay David Batiste Sr., and his older brothers, Jamal, Damonand the late Russell Batiste.

Ryan Batiste organized the first LOCALS’ Fest in 2019 with the goal to give emerging and veteran local musicians and bands another festival-style platform,especially during New Orleans’ busy fall season.

“The mission is still the same. The values are still the same, and we’re just opening up the platform formore people to do things,” Batiste said. “Just us being able to open it up to morepeople is one of the biggest blessings we’ve had.”

For information, visit localsfestnola. com

Email JakeClapp at jclapp@ gambitweekly.com

music music music

HELLOCLEVELAND

FRIDAY,THE BROADSIDE

Forty-one years ago, the “mockumentary” film “This Is Spinal Tap” unleashed thetitular heavy metal parody band as played by Christopher Guest, Michael McKean andpart-time New OrleansresidentHarry Shearer Spinal Tapwent on to release albums, tour and make the requisite appearances at charity events.

“SpinalTap II: TheEnd Continues” arrives in theaters this weekend. Shot primarily in New Orleans, it again features Guest, McKean, Shearer anddirector Rob Reiner (asdocumentarian Marty DiBergi) rockingout in spiteof themselves.

It’svery Spinal Tap-ish, then, for a “fake” band to inspire acover band. Hello ClevelandconsistsofNew Orleans music communityveterans from avarietyofgenres: Marc Paradis on guitar,BethPatterson on electric bouzouki-tar,Dave Pomerleau on bass, MikeBarras on drums and Josh Paxton on keys. On Friday,The Broad Theater on NorthBroad Street screens “Spinal TapII” at 7p.m.Afterward, Hello Cleveland takesoverthe stage next door at The Broad’ssister venue The Broadside toplaythe songs fromthe first “Spinal Tap” movieand more. Concert-only tickets are $13.

SOUNDCHECK

This week’sentertainment options include an arena show for kids, an acclaimed blues guitarist and acover band version of aspoof band.

DESCENDANTS/ZOMBIES: WORLDS COLLIDETOUR

FRIDAY,SMOOTHIE KING CENTER

For years, theDisney Channel has cranked out original movies about fresh-faced high school monsters prone to singing and dancing via the“Descendants” and “Zombies” franchises. To many tweensand teens, themovies are essential viewing and the young stars are objects of affection.

Disney’sconcert production and licensing division,

in collaboration with international concert powerhouse AEG Presents,launched the“Descendants/Zombies: Worlds Collide Tour” in San Diego in July.The 43-date North American arena tour features seven cast members from thetwo franchises Kylie Cantrall, Freya Skye,

Colley and Mekonnen Knife —singing songs from the movies, mash-ups and individual numbers. The production boasts all the bells and whistles of an arena-sized pop tour,including costumes, choreography,video content and asmallB-stage at the rear of the arena floor

The tour stops at the Smoothie King Center on Friday.Tickets start at $57.

Keith Spera

Beth Patterson

Malachi Barton, left, and Freya Skye

music music music

OTHERNOTEWORTHYSHOWS

THURSDAY

Galactic drummer Stanton Moore powers ajazz trio at 7:30 p.m. and9:30 p.m. at Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro on Frenchmen Street. Tickets are $30.

Geno Delafose &French Rockin’ Boogie are featured for the weekly Zydeco Night at Rock ’N’ Bowl ($17)

FRIDAY

Old-school blues guitarist andsinger Little Freddie King and hisroadhouse band record alive album, “Live At the Drinking and Thinking BJ’s,” from 9:30 p.m. to midnight at BJ’sLounge in the Bywater neighborhood.

Jazz drummer and vibraphonist Jason Marsalis stages atribute to theBeach Boys and Brian Wilson at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. at Snug Harbor.Tickets are $35.

Bassist Sam Price &the True Believers funk up the Maple Leaf Bar at 9p.m.($15 advance, $20 at the door)

Chickie WahWah hostsa“Throwback Residency” in the spirit of the fondly remembered NorthRampart Street brass band venue Donna’sBar &Grill with the Treme Brass Band and free red beans. The show startsat8 p.m.; admission is $20 plus fees/taxes.

Modern rock band Neutral Snap hits Rock ’N’ Bowl ($12).

SATURDAY

Honduran-born, New Orleans-based pianist Oscar Rossignoli draws onjazz, classical and LatinAmerican music He accompanies the likes of John Boutte and Jason Marsalis while also anchoring his own projects. He’llbe joined by aquintet at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. at Snug Harbor.Tickets are $30.

Guitarist Papa Mali and his Shantytown Dub Allstars crankout reggae, rock steady and ska at Chickie WahWah starting at 10 p.m. Admission is $15 plus fees/taxes.

Jason Marsalis

Christone ‘Kingfish’ Ingram

Dusky Waters

Fast-risingNew Orleanspiano prodigy River Eckert fronts aband that includes his dad, Jake Eckert, plus Eddie Christmas,Tucker Godbold and Jason Mingledorff at theMaple Leaf Bar at 8p.m. Tickets are $15 advance, $20 day of show BRW pumpsout Motown hitsatRock ’N’ Bowl ($12).

SUNDAY

Blues guitarist Christone “Kingfish” Ingram brings his“Hard Road World Tour” to the House of Blues. Tickets start at $25.

Theever-colorful SwampDogg returns to Chickie WahWah for an 8p.m. show. Admissionis$25 plus taxes and fees.

At the Maple Leaf Bar,keyboardist JoeKrown’sTrioPlus1 features Papa Mali on guitar, CasandraFaulconer on bass and Eric Bolivar on drums at 8p.m. Tickets are $15 advance, $20 at the door

MONDAY

Bassist GeorgePorter Jr is back to playing two Monday shows, at 7p.m. and 10 p.m.,atthe Maple Leaf Bar.Tickets are $15 advance, $20 at the door

WEDNESDAY

Trombonist Delfeayo Marsalis &the Uptown Jazz Orchestra swing out at Snug Harbor at 7:30 p.m.and 9:30 p.m.Tickets are $40.

theease of denim

Snug Harborhosts “SouthernNights,” an Americanasongwriter series presented byBlackAmericana Fest. Curated by multi-instrumentalist Dusky Waters, the“SouthernNights” series features female songwriters performing in the round, then coming together for a final tribute to afemale icon. This Sunday’s featured singer-songwriters include Waters, Lisa Mae O’Neill and Kelly Love Jones; their concluding collaboration will celebrate Tina Turner.They’ll be backed by Conner McCready on drums, Nelson Williams on upright bass and Hannah KreigerBenson on piano. Tickets are $30.

Theonlyshow during an uncharacteristically quiet weekend at Tipitina’s is Cajun bandleader Bruce Daigrepont’s monthlyfais dodo starting at 5:15 p.m. Admission is $15.

drinks drinks drinks

ROUND ANOT HE R

Classic New Orleans obituary cocktail makes a tempting case for a comeback

BY MATTHEW HAINES

Contributing writer

“I mean, it all starts with the name,” said T.A. Breaux, founder of Jade Liqueurs Fine Absinthes. “The obituary cocktail sounds provocative, right? The name makes you want to learn more.”

With three ingredients — gin, vermouth and absinthe — at its core, the obituary cocktail seems simple. Yet these three ingredients have a lot to say, combining to create a drink that is as classic as it is uniquely of the Crescent City.

wanted to cover,” Strachan said, “and I saw the obituary cocktail. I didn’t know anything about it, but I sensed there was an interesting story behind it.”

The obituary cocktail has a long history in the Big Easy, first mentioned as part of Robert Kinney’s 1942 book “The Bachelor in New Orleans.”

Recipes on Page 8

By the early 21st century, however, the drink had fallen out of popularity That began to change with the revival of the craft cocktail, which has accelerated over the past decade.

This summer, the New Orleans drink with the provocative name has been thrust back into the spotlight for the first time in decades. As part of LSU Press’ Iconic New Orleans Cocktails series, local author Sue Strachan published her book “The Obituary Cocktail” in July It’s Strachan’s second for the series — “The Café Brûlot” was published in 2021.

“I was looking at the list of cocktails that LSU Press

“Gin and vermouth, that’s your traditional dry martini right there,” Breaux said. “And like a martini, it’s common to garnish an obituary with lemon peel.

“But then you also have absinthe,” he said, referring to the anise-flavored spirit reminiscent of black licorice in taste. “Absinthe is to cocktails what hot sauce is to food

“It spices it up and makes it feel New Orleans.”

ä See OBITUARY, page 8

“A cocktail is the product of the wor and Sue guides us into every nook and

T.A. BREAUX, founder of Jade Liqueurs Fine Absinthes

Cure bartender Liz Kelley mixes the obituary cocktail with precise measurements of gin, vermouth and orange bitters vermouth and absinthe at its core is seeing a resurgence.

world in which it exists, and cranny of that world.”

LEFT: An atomizer is used to spritz absinthe into a cocktail glass.

ABOVE: The mixture is poured into the absinthe-laced glass before it is served.

Sue Strachan, author of the book ‘The Obituary Cocktail,’ stands with the titular drink at the bar at Cure in New Orleans.

STAFF PHOTOS By CHRIS GRANGER

Developed in the 1940s, the uniquely New Orleans cocktail with gin,

drinks drinks drinks

OBITUARY

Continued from page 6

A curious history

The obituary cocktail is believed to have been invented at Café Lafitte, a bar in the French Quarter building that now houses Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop bar. In the middle of the 20th century, it was an institution especially popular with New Orleans’ gay community and, as local restaurateur Ella Brennan put it, “the late-night artsy crowd.”

In Kinney’s aforementioned “The Bachelor in New Orleans,” advertised as “a handbook for unattached gentlemen and ladies of spirit visiting or resident in the Paris of America,” Café Lafitte is credited with two drinks. One is the Lafitte Special, containing applejack, curacao and several other ingredients The other drink is the obituary cocktail.

“It is impossible to tell the story of this drink without telling the story of Lafitte’s,” Strachan said.

Strachan tells that story in “The Obituary Cocktail,” also documenting how the drink and its Lafitte connection catapulted into the public consciousness.

A column in the June 16, 1948, edition of New Orleans Item declared that “New Orleans’ latest drink, incidentally, is a cocktail called Obituary, invented by Tom Caplinger, owner of Jean Lafitte’s bar (add a drop of absinthe to a Manhattan or a Martini and it becomes an Obituary).”

The cocktail experienced a resurgence at the turn of the 21st century thanks to a popular 1998 coffee table book by Kerri McCaffety called “Obituary Cocktail: The Great Saloons of New Orleans.” The book documented many of the city’s bars, generating renewed interest in them and the cocktails Mc-

The author’s title cocktail was not immune to that interest. In fact, the year after her book was published, a local social club popped up called the Grande and Secret Order of Obituary Cocktail.

The order met each Friday at a different bar featured in the book. Today, they continue that tradition, though the club has branched out to establishments beyond the scope of McCaffety’s work.

“Every week the group has a new theme or color, and they go to a new bar, bringing in anywhere from 25 to more than 100 attendees,” Strachan said.

“It’s really a cool thing, though I think it’s more inspired by the book than the cocktail itself.”

Exploring every nook and cranny

Strachan explores the Grande and Secret Order of Obituary Cocktail in her book. But that is just one of many topics on that she touches related to the titular drink. In “The Obituary Cocktail,” she covers not just the fascinating beginnings of Café Lafitte but also the salacious auction in 1953 that led to the split between what is now Lafitte’s in Exile and Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop bar

Readers are also treated to an exploration of the unique death-related traditions of southeast Louisiana, as well as a series of other drinks, recipes included, that tap into those traditions.

And, of course, there is plenty of information about the obituary cocktail itself, including several step-by-step recipes from local bars and a deep dive into the cocktail’s main ingredients.

To Breaux, the founder of Jade Liqueurs Fine Absinthes, each path in Strachan’s book serves an important purpose, amounting to much more

Cure bartender Liz Kelley twists a lemon peel to finish the obituary cocktail, the subject of a new book by local author Sue Strachan as part of LSU Press’ Iconic New Orleans Cocktails series.

than its individual parts.

“A cocktail is the product of the world in which it exists,” said Breaux, “and Sue guides us into every nook and cranny of that world. I think hers is the perfect personality — curious and passionate — to write this book.”

New life for a drink named after death

Fans of the obituary cocktail, like Neal Bodenheimer, owner of local cocktail meccas Cure and Cane & Table, are hopeful Strachan’s book can help launch a new life for a drink that is more recognized for its name than the drink itself.

“I think cocktail books, like these from LSU Press, that get specific, can help take an obscure drink and bring it into the mainstream,” Bodenheimer said. “Drinks like the Roffignac, the La Louisiane and the Vieux Carré sat in obscurity until someone brought them to the forefront.”

Bodenheimer believes the obituary cocktail has all the attributes to be the next celebrated New Orleans tipple — thanks not just to its title, but its ingredients as well.

“Not only are martinis extremely popular right now, but people are becoming increasingly interested in absinthe,” Bodenheimer said. “And when someone thinks of New Orleans flavors in a drink, for many it is that anise taste found in absinthe and herbsaint.

“So here we have a martini that uses that local flavor And in a city that attracts both tourists and residents who gravitate towards local things, the obituary cocktail is exactly that.”

Email Matthew Haines at haines. matthew@gmail.com.

OBITUARY COCKTAIL RECIPES

The Obituary cocktail has three main ingredients: gin, dry vermouth and absinthe. Then, there’s room for interpretation.

Made at Cure

Courtesy Neal Bodenheimer, Cure Serves 1

1½ ounces Plymouth Navy Strength Gin

¾ ounce Noilly Prat Original Dry Vermouth

¾ ounce Dolin Dry Vermouth

1 dash Bittercube Orange Bitters Vieux Pontarlier Absinthe

Combine all ingredients listed above, except absinthe, with ice and stir until chilled.

Season a chilled cocktail glass with seven sprays of absinthe from an atomizer.

Strain liquids into the absintheseasoned glass.

Express a lemon peel over the drink and discard the peel.

Made at Fives bar (traditional)

Courtesy James O’Donnell, Fives

Serves 1

2¼ ounce Sipsmith London Dry Gin

¾ ounce La Quintinye Dry Vermouth

5-6 dashes Jade La Nouvelle-Orleans Absinthe Lemon twist

Combine the first three ingredients in a mixing glass. Add ice to about halfway, stir well, then strain into a chilled coupe. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Caffety singled out.

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

PROVIDED PHOTO

The obituary cocktail is one of Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop’s signature drinks.

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER One and a half ounces of gin is measured for the obituary cocktail at Cure.

Reel life

Liz Larsen and Michael Strassner go to a Christmas party in ‘The Baltimorons.’

PROVIDED PHOTO By IFC FILMS

Art imitates an Instagram story in Metairie native Jay Duplass’ new film, ‘The Baltimorons’

BY LESLIE CARDÉ Contributing writer

It’s Christmas Eve in Baltimore as the opening scene of film “The Baltimorons” unfolds. But, who is this guy climbing onto a ladder in his attic, and what’s that he’s putting around his neck?

ment business sounded really appealing, but we didn’t really understand how two kids from Metairie could actually make a movie, so we delved into music.”

as alcoholism and suicide.

The idea for the script came to him through a connection he made on Instagram during the pandemic, which continued through both the writers and actors strikes.

wanted people to know there is life beyond what you may think is the end.

All will soon be clear in this new dramatic comedy, the latest venture from Jay Duplass. The multitalented native New Orleanian and Jesuit High School grad has stepped behind the camera to direct a film for the first time in 14 years.

But the two never stopped making movies and, by 2005, took their film “The Puppy Chair,” about a lounge chair, a road trip and a birthday present, to the Sundance Film Festival.

J. Duplass

And, unlike his many other productions, this particular film does not involve his brother Mark Duplass, the other half of Duplass Brothers Productions, the company which Jay Duplass said technically began in 1983 in Metairie.

“Mark and I got our first video camera from our parents back then, so that was actually our original collaboration and foray into the film world as young kids,” Duplass said.

“Somehow, being in the entertain-

A distributor picked up the film for what Duplass calls a “small amount of money,” but it was their entrée into the real world of movie making, for the first time using crews who weren’t their girlfriends.

The Duplass brothers made five films between 2005 and 2011, and their successes together and individually continued both in front of and behind the camera, with Mark Duplass (“The Morning Show”) gravitating more toward acting.

Sweet and funny, with an edge

Jay Duplass’ current project, “The Baltimorons,” is a throwback to the comedies of the 1970s and ’80s. At its core, it’s a sweet, funny film about a stand-up comic involved in a May/December romance. But it also has hard edges, dealing with such heady topics

“By that time, I was turning 50 and thought I’d better direct a movie soon, or I was never going to again,” Duplass said. “Then, this story just fell in my lap.

“The opening sequence of the film and the story itself are actually taken from my Instagram friend Michael Strassner’s real life. He would become the co-writer and my lead actor in what became ‘The Baltimorons.’ Hey, like any good bromance, it starts on Instagram these days.”

When the character Cliff (portrayed by Strassner) gets fired from his improv group for drinking too much, he impulsively decides to hang himself. But, as Cliff later jokes, the belt broke because he was “holding a little too much holiday weight.”

Comedy and tears

It’s this juxtaposition of comedy through tears that keeps viewers laughing and crying simultaneously Strassner said in doing this film, he

Duplass was sure he could build a movie around Strassner’s story That story includes Didi (played by Liz Larsen), the dentist Cliff sees after knocking out a tooth during his attempted hanging.

“I wanted the character of Didi to be twice Cliff’s age, so it was a real May/ December romance,” said Duplass. “I discovered Liz Larsen in a play I went to see in L.A.

“She looks terrific, but she is actually old enough to be Cliff’s mother Our festival feedback confirmed that audiences felt the duo’s chemistry was off the chart. And, that’s what I was looking for — an authentic romance.”

“The Baltimorons” recently won the coveted Audience Award at the prestigious South by Southwest Film Festival in Austin, Texas. As Duplass said, being judged by the audiences, rather than your peers, means you’re a crowd pleaser And that keeps his dream of making movies alive.

“The Baltimorons” opens nationwide in theaters Friday.

Email Leslie Cardé at lesliecardejournalist@gmail.com.

stages stages stages

‘Challenging,thrilling’

Kenner’s RivertownTheaterstappedtoproduce

From the touching and sensitive to the madcap, audiences have awide assortment oftheatrical endeavorstoenjoy. Musicals, mirth and social commentary fill the programsofferedthroughout the metropolitan area, some with aside of tasty food as well.

Puttingitall together

When Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts stages “DearEvan Hansen,” the local company will be in aunique situation, something director Kelly Fouchi takes seriously while enjoying the challenge.

“When the licensingcompany reached out and tolduswe’dbeen selected to present the first nonreplica production in the U.S., we jumpedatthe opportunity,” she said.

The local production will keep the storyline, songs and message,but the costumes, choreography and other creative elements will be local.

“In many ways, we’re atest project,” said Fouchi, who is also the artistic and managingdirector for the Kenner theater company.“We’re working directly with the licensing company and orchestral coordinators to prepare the scripts and score for future productions.

“Some materials are still being finalized, so it’staking extra attention and care to pull everything together.Itis achallenge to mount ashowthataudiences already hold in such high regard, but we’re committed to honoring its reputation. Within our resources, we want to give our local audiencesthe same artistry and emotionalpunch.”

The story features an anxiety-ridden high schooler dealingwith the aftermathofaclassmate’sdeathand his mistaken role in the deceased’slife,with social media playing acriticalrole.

“The show’sdesignblends traditional staging with projections anda very modernsense of social media as part of the storytelling, so we’ve addedalot of

Jacob Morris as Evan and RubyLevin as Zoe talk in ascene from ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ at Rivertown Theaters for the PerformingArtsinKenner.The showopens Friday

newtechnical equipment to our stage,” said Fouchi. “Balancing thehuman emotionwiththe digital world is going to be both challenging and thrilling.

“I hope audiences can recognizethe universal, deeply human struggles, whether for themselvesorthose of people they love, reflected on stage.”

Taking the role of Evan Hansen is JacobMorris, joinedbyRuby Levin, AshleyLemmler,Allison Bulach, Ryan Reilly,Luke Boucvalt as Jared and Mia Lowy.Sharing co-directing responsibilitieswith Fouchi (who alsochoreographs)isBryceSlocumb, withElise Spurlockasmusical director.

“’DearEvan Hansen’ has become aglobalcultural touchstone, but the themes of connection, loss, mental health and belonging are incredibly universaland thought provoking,” said Fouchi, who noted she was moved by the show when she saw it originally in its Broadway run and wanted to direct since that timealmost adecade ago.“It asks hard,relatable questions,but it also evokes empathy.”

The show opens at 7:30 p.m. Friday.It will run at 7:30 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sept.25, plus at 2p.m. Sundays, through Sept.28at325 Minor St.Ticket start at $43. Visit rivertowntheaters. com.

Dark andcaustic

Billedas“an absurdand darkly humorous explorations of humanity’s impulse towardcriticism,” Intramural Theater stages “Critical Mass” on Sept. 19-29 at the Marigny Opera House.

The regional premiere of Deb Margolin’sshow is directed by Tricia Andersonand features the talentsofPamela D. Roberts, Joshua Tierney,Brian Sands, Mary Davis, Roney Jones, DontezBanks and Joe Signorelli.

The action is propelled by thenarrator, described as “artist,mother,investigator of society’sfoibles,” along with atroupe of actorsstriving to impress a critic. But thecritic hasissuesaswell. With original music, aplethora of costumeand set changes and more,the showpromises to be atasty theatrical

morsel.

The show runs at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 19-22 and Sept. 26-29 at 725 St. Ferdinand St. Tickets are $25. For information, visit intramuraltheater.org.

With asideoftheater

Dinnerand alive show are in store at the Terrytown Country Club when Sandy Bravender,Dane Rhodes, et al., stage “Whatever Lola Wants,” acomedy about an estranged daughter attending her father’sfuneral and meeting three people who have been living with him. Written and directed by Rhodes with Mikko, who goes by one name, the show features Bravender,Rhodes, Tracy Elliot, Michael Sullivan, Robert Kohn and Margeaux Fanning.

The show,which runs Friday through Sept. 28, will be stagedat1785 Carol Sue Ave. in Terrytown. Abuffet will be served at 7p.m.Fridays and Saturdays, with the show at 8:15 p.m. Sundays matinee buffets are at 11:30 a.m.followed by the show at 1p.m.Tickets are $60. Call Bravender at (504) 442-5675.

On stagethisweek, Sept.11-17

“DON’T DRESS FORDINNER”: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2p.m.Sundays through Sept. 21; Playmakers Theater, 19106 Playmakers Road, Covington. Countryside romp of mistaken identities, mixed-up mistresses and alot of fun as aplanned rendezvous of aman and his mistress, complete with aCordon Bleu chef, goes askew whenhis wife and his “alibi” descend as well. Tickets start at $15. bontempstix.com.

“MS.HOLMES&MS.WATSON —APT.2B”: 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Sunday; Marquette Theater,Loyola University,6363 St. Charles Ave. Crescent City Stage performs playwright Kate Hamill’stake on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’straditional characters and propels them into the present with afresh take on Sherlock and Dr.Watson, both in terms of timeand

ä See ANDREWS, page 11

PROVIDED PHOTO

Victor Andrews

Teen artistscreatemural on Lower9th Ward floodwall

An enormous mural has appeared on the Industrial Canal flood wall along Jourdan Avenue, near North Galvez Street in the Lower 9th Ward. The painting, which by our measure is over 500 feet long and 12 feet tall, is a lively,colorfuladdition to what was ablank and bleak concrete expanse. Despite its upbeat appearance, the huge paintingmarksone of New Orleans’ most tragic sites.

On Aug. 29, 2005, as Hurricane Katrina’swinds roared across the city, a large section of the flood wall failed, allowing atsunami of muddy water to surge into the adjoining neighborhood, sweeping some homes off their slabs, and inundating hundreds to the roofline. Some residents lost their lives in the sudden catastrophe.

The giant painting was created by studentsofmaster muralist Brandan “Bmike” Odums’ Eternal Seeds summer art program.

The teen artists wovescores of individual scenesinto thechronological composition, from pre-Katrinamemories to warnings of the comingstorm, images of stranded flood victimsand marchers in the annual memorial second-line parade that beginsatthe site each Aug. 29.

Poignantly,the bright artwork looks out over aneighborhood thatisstill depopulated and scarred by the storm and flood that took place 20 years ago.

Email Doug MacCash at dmaccash@ theadvocate.com.

ANDREWS

Continued frompage10

gender post-COVID and their efforts to solve amystery,coexist and survive and thrive in anew world after the pandemic. Special nights,including cast talkbacks, ladies’ night and date night, are planned. Tickets startat$12. crescentcitystage.com.

“OUT CRY: THE TWO-CHARACTER PLAY”: 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Satur-

days and 3p.m. Sundays through Sept. 21;Lower DepthsTheatre, Loyola University’s Music and Communications building. The Tennessee WilliamsTheatre Co.’s season finale is atwisted take on life imitating art(as Williamsdoes so well), aboutabrother andsister phasing in and out of character and reality as thelinesbetween theater and reality blur and unravel. Tracey E. Collins and Kyle Daigrepont take theroles of Claire andFelice. Tickets startat$28. twtheatrenola.com

“TUESDAYS WITH MORRIE”: 8p.m. Fridays

and Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. Sundays through Sept.21; 30 by Ninety Theatre, 880 Lafayette St. Asportsjournalist sees aTVprogramabout his former professor,who is suffering from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig’sdisease, aterminal neurodegenerative disorder. Avisit turns into aweekly reunionthatmorphs intoa final lesson on the meaning of life. Lance Nelson takes the role of thejournalistand Chris Aberle is Morrie. Tickets start at $20. 30byninety.com

“WAITRESS”: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and

The teenagestudents of master muralist Brandan ‘Bmike’ Odums’ Eternal Seeds summer artprogram painted amural across the Industrial Canal flood wall, marking the spot where the wall collapsed during Hurricane Katrina, causing catastrophic flooding in the Lower9th Ward.

STAFFPHOTOSByDOUG MacCASH

Saturdays and 2p.m.Sundays through Sept. 21; Jefferson Performing Arts Center,6400 Airline Drive,Metairie. Jefferson Performing Arts stages Sara Bareilles’ musical based on Jessie Nelson’sbook about apie baker and waitress who ends up being asurvivor as well, despite abuse, unwanted maternity and more than acouple of marital indiscretions. Tickets start at $30. jpas. org.

EmailVictor Andrews at vandrews@ theadvocate.com.

Doug MacCash