The Advocate 04-12-2026

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Some coastalLouisiana campslostpower when theirutility pulled out, andotherscould be next

BY SAMKARLIN Staff writer

ABOARD THE LIL JAKE Ben Sanamo

hunched in the bowels of the tugboat and clutched one end of agarden hose. His dad, Warren,snaked the other end into a55-gallon drum of diesel andflicked on aportable pump.

The sun fell low in thesky,splashinggoldenlight on their houseboat, the Aqua Lodge, moored next to the tug on the Voss Canal, awaterway cut long ago by furtrappers,deep in the brackish marsh in Terrebonne Parish.Noneighbors were home. The swamp was quiet

The Sanamos pumped the diesel until the drum was dry.Ben cranked the generator,and it sputtereda couple times. “That’sthe thing with generators,” Warren said. “You never know.”

Ben crankeditagain anditroared to life. The engine’shum cracked the remote quiet of their nook in the marsh, where they’ve been coming for over adecade,raisingBen’s son, Jake, and fishing and hunting just about anything that swims or crawls in coastal Louisiana.

This is theSanamofamily’sroutine now.Their houseboat, which Ben and Warren built from the ground up,isone of nearly300 properties spanningfour remoteoutpostsin

Ben Sanamo, left, and his father,Warren Sanamo, pump diesel fuel into their tugboat at their campinTerrebonne Parish. The family relies on generatorsfor powerafter electric infrastructure serving the area was not rebuilt following Hurricane Ida.

Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes that hadthe lights turned off—maybe forgood.

Hurricane Idadamaged someof the electric equipment thatpoweredthe camps. Foryears, theSouth LouisianaElectric Cooperative Association, or SLECA, told the camp ownersthat they planned to build them back.

Then,withlittlewarning, SLECA sent another letter in August 2024

with news: The utility would notrebuild.Its officials filedpaperwork with regulators to formally abandon the camps, leaving themwithout lights, airconditioning andother modern conveniences powered by electricity.Last month, it won formalapprovaltoabandon oneofthe four camp communities.

The decision is alandmark one,

ä See END, page 8A

Whileothersmay have shuttered, it continuestodrawshoppers

BY IANNE SALVOSA Staff writer

Salty pretzels, the cool relief of air conditioning, endless products and afree place to hang out withfriends.They’re allhallmarks of themall experience that have cemented themselves into American culture.

But in the past 20 years, financial pressures squeezed wallets and the ease of online shopping drew customers away frombrick-and-mortar stores and to their phone screens, leaving millions of square feet of vacant retail space across the country.Louisiana’slargest mall,the aptly named Mall of Louisiana, has seemingly not succumbed to the pressures.

“People still love to get out and go be with other folks and shop as much as they can to experience new brands and spend time with friends and family,” said Randy Holcombe, vicepresident of leasing for GGP,the retail arm of Brookfield

See MALL, page 9A

BY ALYSE PFEIL Staff writer

Local governments could hold avotetostop adding fluoride to their public water systemsundera proposaladvancing in the Louisiana Legislature, resurfacing adebate that has emerged from the Make America Healthy Again movement.

Last year,anoutright ban on fluoridation of public watersystems sponsored by Sen. Mike Fesi, R-Houma, failed in the Legislature.

This year,Fesi again pitched the ban, but other senators pushed him to pare it back. Now,his proposal would give towns and parishesthatfluoridate theirwater theoptiontoholdanelection to

FLUORIDE, page 5A

STAFF PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

The MallofLouisiana is the largest in the state.

STAFF PHOTOSByBRETT DUKE

Jake Sanamo holdsupasection of an old electrical line once used to powerhis family’s camp near LakeDeCade in Terrebonne Parish on March 26.

BRIEFS

Bill Cosby wants new trial in sex assault case

NEW YORK Disgraced comedian Bill Cosby reportedly wants a civil case in which he was ordered to pay nearly $60 million in damages to a woman who accused him of sexual assault to be reconsidered.

Cosby, 88, who’s been accused of abusing dozens of women, was found responsible last month for drugging and raping Donna Motsinger in 1972.

Cosby’s attorneys are challenging the amount of money a jury ordered the former “The Cosby Show” star to pay, according to TMZ.

Cosby’s accuser was a waitress who said she was left incapacitated by pills and wine after attending one of the comic’s shows in Los Angeles. He denies assaulting anyone, but didn’t testify in that case, according to The New York Times.

Sonic boom served up by SpaceX launch

ORLANDO, Fla. — People in Central Florida who slept in Saturday morning may have received a sonic boom wake-up call

SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station’s Space Launch Complex 40 on a resupply run to the International Space Station hitting liftoff at 7:41 a.m.

The first-stage booster for the flight didn’t land offshore though, with SpaceX bringing it back to the recovery site adjacent the launch tower at SLC-40. The booster, made its seventh trip to space hit Landing Zone 40 about eight minutes after liftoff.

“There is the possibility that residents of Brevard, Orange, Osceola, Indian River, Seminole, Volusia, Polk, St. Lucie, and Okeechobee counties may hear one or more sonic booms during the landing, but what residents experience will depend on weather and other conditions,” SpaceX had posted in a media alert.

Boy, 9, found locked in van since 2024 in France

PARIS — A 9-year-old boy has been rescued after living locked in his father’s utility van in eastern France since 2024, according to the local prosecutor The child has been hospitalized and his father detained.

Police were alerted by a neighbor to the “sounds of a child” coming from a van on Monday in the village of Hagenbach, near the borders with Switzerland and Germany, according to a statement on Saturday from prosecutor Nicolas Heitz.

After forcing the van open, officers found the child “lying in a fetal position, naked, covered by a blanket on top of a mound of trash and near excrement,” Heitz said. The boy was clearly malnourished and could no longer walk after being in a seated position for so long, according to the statement.

The boy’s father told investigators that he put the child in the truck in November 2024 “to protect him” because his partner wanted to send the then-7-yearold to a psychiatric hospital, the prosecutor said.

Police clear protesters to reopen Irish refinery

DUBLIN Police removed and arrested protesters on Saturday to reopen Ireland’s only oil refinery as a fifth day of disruptive demonstrations over the soaring price of fuel left many gas pumps dry and threatened to cripple transportation across the country Trucks and tractors continued to block access to vital fuel depots and a major port, and vehicles clogging traffic led to closures of part of the main highway around Dublin, the capital, as well as sections of other major roadways Irish police Commissioner Justin Kelly said enforcement would be ramped up because protesters were illegally blockading critical infrastructure and endangering public safety because of the impact gas shortages could have on emergency response from paramedics and firefighters.

“These are blockades. They are not a legitimate form of protest,” Kelly said. “We gave the blockaders fair warning that we were moving to enforcement and they choose to ignore it and continue to hold the country to ransom.”

3 hurt in N.Y. subway stabbings

Police shoot and kill knife-wielding man, officials say

BY JULIE WALKER and GARY D ROBERTSON Associated Press

NEW YORK A man with a machete who attacked three people randomly at a major New York City subway station Saturday morning was shot and killed by police, authorities said.

Officers responding to a 9:40 a.m. report of stabbings at the 42nd Street-Grand Central station encountered the man. He was behaving erratically, claiming he was “Lucifer,” Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said at an afternoon news conference. Tisch said he was ordered to drop his weapon at least 20 times but refused to comply

She said ultimately an officer shot him twice when he advanced toward the officers with the knife extended.

“Our officers were confronted with an armed individual who had already injured multiple people and was continuing to pose a threat,” Tisch said. “They gave clear commands. They attempted to de-escalate. And when that threat did not stop, they took decisive action to stop it and to protect New Yorkers on one of the busiest train platforms in the city.”

Tisch identified the suspect as Anthony Griffin, 44, and said he had three prior unsealed arrests. He was pronounced dead at Bellevue Hospital.

The three stabbing victims an 84 year-old man, 65-year-old man and 70-year-old woman — suffered injuries that were not thought to be life-threatening, Tisch said.

One man suffered “significant lacerations to the head and face,” the other man had similar injuries and an open skull fracture and the third victim had a laceration to the shoulder Tisch said the suspect slashed one person on a platform at the Grand Central station before going upstairs and slashing the other victims on another platform.

Chief of Transit Joseph Gulotta said the attacks appear to be random acts.

New York Gov Kathy Hochul said on social media that she was “grateful to our brave officers who acted quickly to stop the suspect. We’re working closely with the NYPD as the investigation unfolds.”

The Police Department, posting on the social platform X, advised travelers in the morning to avoid the area due to a police investigation and to expect delays and heavy

U.S., Iran start historic peace talks in Pakistan

BY MUNIR AHMED, E. EDUARDO CASTILLO, SAMY MAGDY and CARA ANNA Associated Press

ISLAMABAD The United States and Iran continued historic face-to-face negotiations early Sunday in Pakistan, days after a fragile, two-week ceasefire was announced, as the war that has killed thousands of people and shaken global markets entered its seventh week.

Meanwhile, the U.S. military said two destroyers transited the Iran-gripped Strait of Hormuz ahead of mine-clearing work, a first since the war began. Iran’s state media, however, said the joint military command denied that.

“We’re sweeping the strait. Whether we make a deal or not makes no difference to me,” Trump told journalists as talks continued and the time approached 2 a.m. in Islamabad. He called negotiations “very deep.” Iranian state TV noted what it called “serious” differences.

The U.S. delegation led by Vice President JD Vance and the Iranian one led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf discussed with Pakistan how to advance the ceasefire already threatened by deep disagreements and Israel’s continued attacks against the Iranian-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon, whose health ministry said the death toll has surpassed 2,000.

Since the Islamic Revolution in Iran in 1979, the most direct U.S. contact had been in 2013 when President Barack Obama called newly elected President Hassan Rouhani to discuss Iran’s nuclear program. Obama’s secretary of state, John Kerry, and counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif later met dur-

ing negotiations toward the 2015 Iran nuclear deal a process that lasted well over a year Now the far broader talks feature Vance, a reluctant defender of the war who has little diplomatic experience and warned Iran not to “try and play us,” and Qalibaf, a former commander with Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guard who has issued some of Iran’s most fiery statements since fighting began.

Iran sets ‘red lines’

Iran’s state-run news agency said the three-party talks began after Iranian preconditions, including a reduction in Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon, were met.

Iran’s delegation told state television it had presented “red lines” in meetings with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, including compensation for damage caused by U.S.-Israeli strikes that launched the war on Feb. 28 and releasing Iran’s frozen assets.

The war has killed at least 3,000 people in Iran, 2,020 in Lebanon, 23 in Israel and more than a dozen in Gulf Arab states, and caused lasting damage to infrastructure in half a dozen Middle Eastern countries. Iran’s grip on the Strait of Hormuz has largely cut off the Persian Gulf and its oil and gas exports from the global economy sending energy prices soaring.

Reflecting the high stakes, officials from the region said Chinese, Egyptian, Saudi and Qatari officials were in Islamabad to indirectly facilitate talks.

The officials spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive matter In Tehran, residents told The Associated Press they were skeptical yet hopeful after weeks of airstrikes

left destruction across their country of some 93 million people.

“Peace alone is not enough for our country because we’ve been hit very hard, there have been huge costs,” 62-year-old Amir Razzai Far said.

U.S. to help clear strait

Iran’sclosureoftheStrait of Hormuz has proved its biggest strategic advantage in the war Around a fifth of the world’s traded oil had typically passed through on over 100 ships a day Only 12 have been recorded transiting since the ceasefire.

On Saturday, Trump said on social media that the U.S. had begun “clearing out” the strait.

“Today, we began the process of establishing a new passage and we will share this safe pathway with the maritime industry soon,” U.S. Central Command commander Adm. Brad Cooper later said.

The U.S statement about the destroyers added: “Additional U.S. forces, including underwater drones, will join the clearance effort in the coming days.”

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had said Tehran was entering negotiations with “deep distrust” after strikes on Iran during previous talks. Araghchi, part of Iran’s delegation in Pakistan, said Saturday that his country was prepared to retaliate if attacked again.

Iran’s 10-point proposal ahead of the talks called for a guaranteed end to the war and sought control over the Strait of Hormuz. It included ending fighting against Iran’s “regional allies,” explicitly calling for a halt to Israeli strikes on Hezbollah.

The United States’ 15-point proposal includes restricting Iran’s nuclear program and reopening the strait.

traffic. Subway trains resumed stopping at the station in the afternoon after bypassing it for hours, according to the Metropolitan Transit Authority’s website.

Beau Lardner said he was just swiping in at Grand Central when bangs rang out “loud enough to hear through headphones,” he told the AP in a message The 34-year-old moved from Manhattan to Long Island a few weeks ago, but he’s been taking the same train from Grand Central for years. “I know that platform like the back of my hand,” he said. Lardner described a “wall of people” rushing toward him to get through the turnstiles, and he sprinted back up the stairs. He said he had “never seen a crowd move like that.”

Associated Press writer Hannah Fingerhut in Des Moines, Iowa, contributed to this report.

Allies yank support for Swalwell’s campaign

BY TRÂN NGUYUN and MICHAEL R. BLOOD Associated Press

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell has so far denied calls for him to exit the California governor’s race following allegations that he sexually assaulted a woman twice, including when she worked for him. After prominent supporters withdrew their backing, Swalwell said in a video on social media that he would spend the weekend with family and friends and share an update “very soon.”

Newsom, a likely 2028 presidential candidate who has avoided engaging in the contest to replace him, said in a statement: “As we continue to learn more, these allegations from multiple sources are deeply troubling and must be taken seriously.”

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who hasn’t endorsed in the race, said the “serious allegations” must be investigated and that she spoke to Swalwell and suggested that be done “outside of a gubernatorial campaign.”

“These allegations of sexual assault are flat false. They’re absolutely false. They did not happen, they have never happened, and I will fight them with everything that I have,” the congressman said Friday Swalwell was among the leading Democrats in the race to replace outgoing Gov Gavin Newsom. But in just hours, he saw his most prominent supporters — including U.S. Sen. Adam Schiff and powerful labor unions — drop their endorsements and call for his exit from the race.

The allegations surfaced at a critical stage of the wide-open campaign to lead the nation’s most populous state Voters will receive mail ballots next month in advance of the June 2 election. The San Francisco Chronicle reported Friday that a woman said Swalwell sexually assaulted her in 2019 and 2024. The newspaper reviewed text messages about the alleged 2024 assault and spoke to people whom she had told about it. She told the newspaper she did not go to police because she was afraid she would not be believed.

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ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JACQUELyN MARTIN

Vice President JD Vance, center walks with Pakistan’s Chief of Defense Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir left, and Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar after arriving for talks with Iranian officials Saturday in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Senator Cassidy introduced the bipartisan Improve and Enhance Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act.

This bill will help Louisiana businesses hire more veterans and military spouses for high-quality, high-paying jobs.

Cassidy’s bill has broad support from employers and veterans organizations and will create hundreds of thousands of new jobs.

Russia-Ukraine Orthodox Easter truce falters

BY DEREK GATOPOULOS, DMYTRO ZHYHINAS and ELISE MORTON Associated Press

KYIV, Ukraine Russia continued to strike Ukrainian positions with drones after a Kremlin-declared Easter ceasefire took effect on Saturday, a Ukrainian military officer told The Associated Press.

“The ceasefire is not being observed by the Russian side,” said Serhii Kolesnychenko, a communications officer for the 148th Separate Artillery Brigade.

He said that while artillery fire had paused in the sector where his brigade was working, at the junction of the Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, and Zaporizhzhia regions, Russian forces continued to use drones to strike Ukrainian positions.

Ukrainian forces were responding with “silence to silence and fire to fire,” Kolesnychenko said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday declared a 32-hour ceasefire over the Orthodox Easter weekend, ordering Russian forces to halt hostilities from 4 p.m. on Saturday until the end of Sunday Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy promised to abide by the ceasefire, describing it as an opportunity to build on peace initiatives. But he warned there would be a swift military response to any violations.

“Easter should be a time of silence and safety. A cease-

fire (at) Easter could also become the beginning of real movement toward peace,” Zelenskyy wrote in an online post on Saturday But he added: “We all understand who we are dealing with Ukraine will adhere to the ceasefire and respond strictly in kind.”

Ukraine earlier proposed to Russia a pause in attacks on each other’s energy infrastructure over the Orthodox Easter holiday Previous ceasefire attempts have had little impact, with both sides accusing each other of violations.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Friday described Putin’s move as a “humanitarian” gesture, but

said Moscow remains focused on a comprehensive settlement based on its longstanding demands a key sticking point that has prevented the two sides from reaching an agreement.

Hours before the ceasefire was due to begin Russian drone strikes overnight killed at least two people in the Ukrainian city of Odesa, local authorities reported.

A further two people were wounded in the attack on the Black Sea port city, when drones hit a residential area, damaging apartment buildings, houses and a kindergarten.

The driver of a public trolley bus was killed after the vehicle was struck

Pope Leo XIV denounces ‘delusion of omnipotence’

BY NICOLE WINFIELD

Associated Press

ROME In his strongest words yet, Pope Leo XIV on Saturday denounced the “delusion of omnipotence” that is fueling the U.S.-Israel war in Iran and demanded political leaders stop and negotiate peace. Leo presided over an evening prayer service in St. Peter’s Basilica on the same day the United States and Iran began face-to-face negotiations in Pakistan and as a fragile ceasefire held.

History’s first U.S.-born pope didn’t mention the United States or President Donald Trump in his prayer, which was planned before the talks were announced But Leo’s tone and message appeared directed at Trump and U.S. officials, who have boasted of U.S. military superiority and justified the war in religious terms.

“Enough of the idolatry of self and money!” Leo said. “Enough of the display of power! Enough of war!” In the basilica pews was the archbishop of Tehran, Belgian Cardinal Dominique Joseph Mathieu The U.S. was represented in the

diplomatic corps by its deputy chief of mission, Laura Hochla, the U.S. Embassy said. In the first weeks of the war, the Chicago-born Leo was initially reluctant to publicly condemn the violence and limited his comments to muted appeals for peace and dialogue. But Leo stepped up his criticism starting on Palm Sunday And this week, he said Trump’s threat to annihilate Iranian civilization was “truly unacceptable” and called for dialogue to prevail

On Saturday, Leo called for all people of good will to pray for peace and demand an end to war from their political leaders. The evening vigil in Rome, which featured Scripture readings and meditative recitation of the Rosary prayers, was taking place as simultaneous local prayer services were being held in the U.S. and beyond.

Praying for peace, Leo said, was a way to “break the demonic cycle of evil” to build instead the Kingdom of God where there are no swords, drones or “unjust profit.”

“It is here that we find a bulwark against that delusion of omnipotence that surrounds us and is becoming increasingly unpredictable and aggressive,” he said. “Even the holy Name of God, the God of life is being dragged into discourses of death.”

Leaders have used religion to justify their actions in the war U.S officials and especially Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have invoked their Christian faith to cast the U.S. as a Christian nation trying to vanquish its foes

Leo has said God doesn’t bless any war, and certainly not those who drop bombs.

Leo presided over the service sitting off to the side of the altar on a white throne, wearing his formal red cape and liturgical stole and praying with a Rosary in his hands. Many of the priests and nuns in the pews fingered Rosary beads as the “Our Father” and “Hail Mary” prayers were recited.

The Vatican is particularly concerned about the spillover of Israel’s war against Hezbollah in Lebanon, given the plight of Christian communities in the south.

by a drone in the southern Ukrainian city of Kherson, less than an hour before the start of the ceasefire, Kherson regional head Oleksandr Prokudin wrote on Telegram.

According to the Ukrainian Air Force, Russia targeted Ukraine with 160 drones overnight, of which 133 were shot down or intercepted, hours before a proposed Easter ceasefire was due to come into force.

Russia’s Defense Ministry said 99 Ukrainian drones were shot down overnight across Russia and occupied Crimea.

Russia’s Defense Ministry said that a prisoner swap Saturday brought home 175

of its soldiers. Zelenskyy confirmed Saturday’s exchange, saying that 175 service members and seven civilians were returned. “Most had been held in captivity since 2022. And finally, they are home,” he wrote on X.

Hundreds of relatives, clutching photos of missing soldiers, crowded around ambulances and buses carrying returned prisoners of war in northern Ukraine. Many called out names and brigade numbers in hopes of finding loved ones faster

The crowd, many draped in blue and yellow flags, chanted “We welcome you!” as the weary returnees in blue jackets reached through windows to shake hands and embrace wellwishers. Family also members held up portraits of others still-missing, asking the freed prisoners whether they recognized anyone.

Svitlana Pohosyan was waiting for her son’s return. Asked about the ceasefire, she said: “I want to believe it. God willing, may it be so. We will believe and hope

that everything will be fine, that a ceasefire will come on such a holy day, and that there will be peace — peace in Ukraine and peace in the whole world.”

“My celebration will come when my son returns,” she added. “I will hold him in my arms — and that will be the greatest celebration for me. And for every mother, every family.”

Periodic prisoner exchanges have been one of the few positive outcomes of otherwise fruitless monthslong U.S.-brokered negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv The talks have delivered no progress on key issues preventing an end to Russia’s invasion of its neighbor, now in its fifth year

Separately, seven residents of Russia’s Kursk region returned from Ukraine on Saturday after they were captured by the Ukrainian army, Russian state media reported. They were greeted at the Belarusian-Ukrainian border by Russia’s human rights ombudswoman, Tatyana Moskalkova.

EsmeraldaEsparza didn’t expect her brother’s encouragement to change her life

Esparzahad earnedadegreefromafour-year university,but was uncertainabout her career path.Her brother urgedher to follow in hisfootsteps andpursuethe ProcessTechnology(PTEC)program at NunezCommunity College, whichpreparesstudentstobecomeplant technicians andoperators

“Hekeptsaying,‘Thereare always jobs available. They’realways lookingfor more womentoenter theindustry. Youcan have agreat career withthis,’”Esparza recalled.“Iwasn’tsureabout it at first, but Idecided to give it atry.”

Because shehad completedcollege prerequisites, Esparzawas eligible forNunez’s16-week fast-track PTEC program.She took classesfrom 7:30 a.m. to 4p.m. each weekday, whichwas ideal becauseshe could continue working as arestaurantserverinthe evenings

priorities,” said NunezProvost Dr.Cherie KayLaRocca.“We’repreparing techniciansfor high-precision,safety-criticalenvironments,

closelywith

LCTC

includingFletcher.That partnershipextends into directstudent engagement.LOOPleaders regularly meet with Fletcher students formock interviews, resume reviewsand individual coaching sessions –all designed to help them build soft skills on top of theirtechnical training

“The program wasaffordable. Thetimecommitmentwas asacrifice butI waswilling to do it anditpaidoff,” shesaid. “I was doingalot of hands-on learningatNuneztosee howvalveswork, what toolsIwould need to useand what thepumps look like.Icould tell thesewereskills I could applyinareal-worldsetting.”

Esparzawas offered an internship soonafter completing thePTEC program, andshortly afterreceivedafull-time joboffer.Today,she’s building acareershe hadn’t imaginedfor herself just afew yearsago

“I love it,” shesaid. “I have no complaints.”

Esparza’sstory is oneofmanythat illustrate howworkforce-driven educationand industry partnershipsatLouisiana Communityand Technical Colleges connectstudentstocareeropportunities across thestate

Forcompanies like Danos, thoseconnections arebuilt intentionally through ongoingcollaboration andcommunication.Danos is an energy services providerthatworks withdozens of companies, from international conglomeratestolocal operators. Mark Danos,owner andCEO of Danos Family Investments, said thecompany worksparticularlyclosely with Fletcher Technical Community College.

“The partnershipworks becauseFletcher is lookingtoplace students in jobs, andweare looking to build localtalentpipelines,” Caimesaid. “Weget to know thestudentsand figure outwhether they wouldbea good fitdirectlywithour companyorwithanother organization. We’ve always knownthatFletcherprovidesgreat traininginthe industrial skills We want to layerontop of that andmakesure thesestudentsare in the best position to succeed.

Caimesaidthe relationship between LOOP andFletchercontinues to payoff with job placements. Forexample,LOOPplans to soon hire two newemployees whocompleted cert ficationsatFletcherand completed internshipsatLOOP. Other energy companiesinthe region have followed similarpaths,hesaid.

“Theycan combinethe knowledgethey’ve learnedatFletcher with thereal-lifeworkthey’ve donethrough internships or part-timejobs, he said.“Isee this having long-term benefits forthisregion. If we don’t build localtalent pipelines, we either have to hire people from outof stateordomoretraining internally.Fletcher allows us to create better successionplans.”

“Our partnership withFletcherisfocused on training offshore operators–specifically, instrumentationand electrical technicians andproductionoperators,” Danossaid. “We’re fortunatetohavea direct pipeline to theFletcherleadershipteamtotalkabout what classesthey areofferingand howthose arestructured. We want people to receive trainingthatmakes them employable in ourregionand ourindustry.

Danossaidhehas been especially impressed withFletcher’s willingness to listen to industry feedback andadapt accordingly, even if it meanslaunching new programs or pivoting into new areaswhere thereare workforceneeds.

“Fletcherwants to be agood stewardofthe resourcespeopleare investing there. They don’t want to just offeracoursebecause it’s popularorsomething they’vedonefor alongtime,”Danos said.“They want to give people skills that they canuse to getjobsinthis region.”

Asimilar mindsetleads NunezCommunity College, whichislooking to createopportunities forstudentsinemerging industries such as maritime,aerospace,defensemanufacturing andenergy

“Weare strengthening Louisiana’s roleinaerospace,defense and advanced manufacturingbybuildingcapacityalignedwithnational

ForLouisiana residentslikeJohnTsai, theongoing communication betweenLCTCand industry partners canopendoors in unexpected andprosperous ways Tsai hadcompleted university-level undergraduate andgraduate coursework,then worked in customerservice at theNew Orleans airport. He parlayed that interest into studying aviation,but industry layoffs made himquestionhis future in thebusiness.In2024, he learnedabout Nunez’sWindEnergy Technology program,whichpreparesstudents to work immediatelyaswindturbine technicians Whilestill in theprogram,Tsaicompleted amockinterview withan area company. Thecompany called him aboutamonth laterfor afacility tour andmorein-depthinterview “Atthe endofthe tour,theysaidtheywantedtohiremerightaway

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO

A woman cries while holding a photo of her missing relative during a POW exchange Saturday between Russia and Ukraine in Chernyhiv region, Ukraine.

FLUORIDE

Continued from page 1A

end that practice.

The measure passed the Senate on Wednesday, with a handful of Democrats joining Republicans in a 26-7 vote.

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in rocks, soil and water It started being added to public water systems in the mid-1900s to help prevent tooth decay, an intervention that science and health experts widely agree is safe.

Fesi has said it is “hazardous and poisonous.”

Currently Louisiana’s public water systems with more than 5,000 service connections are required to add fluoride at safe levels determined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention if they have the money to do so. Systems without fluoride can opt out of the requirement to add it if 15% of voters in that system petition to hold a vote for an exemption and the voting public agrees.

Fesi’s proposal, Senate Bill 4, would allow local governments to hold a vote to opt out of a fluoridation program without the need for a petition. With a majority vote, fluoridation would end.

The CDC tracked data in 2025 for 922 public water systems in Louisiana serving 3.9 million people. Only 120 of those systems serving 1.5 million people are fluoridated. And, of the systems that are fluoridated, half of them have a naturally occurring fluoride concentration that both prevents tooth decay and is deemed safe by the CDC.

Current federal guidelines recommend a fluoride concentration of 0.7 milligrams per liter in drinking water

State efforts to ban fluoride ramped up after Robert F. Kennedy Jr early last year became the top official at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, gaining a megaphone for his MAHA platform, which has called into question public health interventions like fluoridation and vaccines.

A “MAHA Report” published by the White House says it aims to prevent childhood chronic disease by addressing root causes like ultra-processed ingredients, synthetic chemicals and sedentary lifestyles. The report says fluoride is an “environmental chemical” that needs to be studied more to understand how it impacts children.

Fesi, who owns a pipeline construction business that

services oil and gas companies, has said fluoride is harmful to human health and can lower the IQ of children.

But, like last year, he is once again facing widespread opposition from medical and public health professionals.

The Louisiana Dental Association, Louisiana Society of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, Louisiana State Medical Society Louisiana Primary Care Association, Louisiana chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, and the Louisiana Academy of Family Physicians all opposed Fesi’s proposed fluoride ban during a public hearing last month.

Dr Suzanne Fournier, a pediatric dentist who works at a children’s hospital in New Orleans, told lawmakers that fluoride helps teeth repair themselves, and it also stops bacteria growth that causes tooth decay and cavities.

“Community water fluoridation is actually supporting a naturally occurring mineral,” Fournier said. She noted that other vitamins and minerals — like iodine, calcium, vitamin C and vitamin D — are added to foods and drinks like orange juice, milk and salt “to help make sure that we stay healthy.”

STAFF FILE PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

Sen. Michael Fesi, R-Houma, is proposing legislation that would allow local governments to hold a vote to stop adding fluoride to their public water systems.

Judge told to reassess halting White House ballroom

BY MICHAEL KUNZELMAN and BEN FINLEY Associated Press

WASHINGTON A federal judge must reconsider the possible national security implications of halting construction of President Donald Trump’s $400 million White House ballroom, an appeals court ruled on Saturday

A three-judge panel from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit said it did not have enough information to decide how much of the project can be suspended without jeopardizing the safety of the president, his family or the White House staff.

The case was returned to the trial judge who, in a March 31 ruling, barred work from proceeding without congressional approval, but suspended enforcement of that order for 14 days. The appeals court extended that for three days, to April 17, to allow the Trump administration to seek Supreme Court review

The panel instructed U.S. District Judge Richard Leon to clarify whether — and how — his injunction interferes with the administration’s plans for safety and security Government lawyers had argued that the project includes critical security features to guard against a range of possible threats, such as drones, ballistic missiles and biohazards and that holding up construction “would imperil the President and others who live and work in the White House.”

Leon, in issuing the temporary pause, concluded that the preservationist group be-

hind the legal challenge was likely to succeed because the president lacks the authority to build the ballroom without approval from Congress.

Leon exempted any construction work necessary to ensure the safety and security of the White House, but said he reviewed material the government privately submitted before determining that a halt would not jeopardize national security

The Republican administration’s appeal cited materials that would be installed to make a “heavily fortified” facility and said construction included bomb shelters, military installations and a medical facility underneath the ballroom.

The appeals panel noted that much of the government’s concerns focused on that below-ground security work, which the White House argued was “distinct from construction of the ballroom itself and could proceed independently.”

Now, however, the White House seems to suggest those security upgrades are “inseparable” from the project as whole, the appeals court said, making it unclear “whether and to what extent” moving forward with certain aspects of the ballroom is necessary for the safety and security of those upgrades.

Carol Quillen president and CEO of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, said in a statement that the organization awaited further clarification from the district court. She said the group was committed “to honoring the historic significance of the White House, advocating for our collective role as stewards, and

demonstrating how broad consultation, including with the American people, results in a better overall outcome.”

The organization sued in December, a week after the White House finished demolishing the East Wing for a 90,000-square-foot ballroom that Trump said would fit 999 people. The administration said aboveground construction on the ballroom would begin in April.

Leon concluded last month that the lawsuit was likely to succeed because “no statute comes close to giving the President the authority he claims to have.”

“The President of the United States is the steward of the White House for future generations of First Families. He is not, however, the owner!” wrote Leon, who was nominated by President George W Bush, a Republican.

Two days after Leon’s ruling, the ballroom project won final approval from a key agency that Trump had stocked with allies. Another oversight entity constituted with Trump loyalists had approved the project earlier this year But the president had proceeded with the biggest structural change to the White House in more than 70 years before seeking input from the commissions.

Trump says the project is funded by private donations, although public money is paying for construction of underground bunkers and security upgrades.

The three-judge appeals court panel was made up of Patricia Millett, Neomi Rao and Bradley Garcia. Millett was nominated by President

Barack Obama, a Democrat. Rao was nominated by Trump. Garcia was nominated by President Joe Biden, a Democrat.

Rao wrote a dissenting opinion, which cited a statute that allows the president

to undertake improvements to the White House.

“Importantly, the government has presented credible evidence of ongoing security vulnerabilities at the White House that would be prolonged by halting

BY GABRIELA AOUN

ANGUEIRA Associated Press

The Trump administration approved major disaster declaration requests for at least seven states this week, according to information released Saturday by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, allowing affected communities to access federal support. About 15 requests for assistance from others states and tribes for extreme weather events this year and last seem to be pending, along with three appeals of previous denials.

Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, South Carolina, South Dakota and Washington were granted major disaster declarations, which can unlock federal support and funding for recovery needs such as public infrastructure repairs and aid for survivors.

The announcement, in a FEMA daily briefing document, comes weeks into Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin’s tenure overseeing the disaster relief agency and is the latest signal that the former Republican senator from Oklahoma could ease some of the turmoil from the lead-

ership of his predecessor, Kristi Noem, who was fired by President Donald Trump in March Nonetheless, FEMA’s work could be undermined by the ongoing DHS shutdown, now eight weeks long While disaster response and recovery can continue through a shutdown because FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund does not lapse, that money is running low as the funding impasse drags on The DHS appropriations bill would replenish the fund with more than $26 billion Mullin said Tuesday that he planned to brief Trump that day on the pending declaration requests, affirming his intention to speed up work on past disasters in the run-up to Atlantic hurricane season, which begins June 1. “We’re trying to push this stuff forward as fast as possible,” Mullin said after surveying Hurricane Helene recovery work in North Carolina on his first official visit as DHS secretary, acknowledging that “disasters are happening constantly.”

White House spokesperson Abigail Jackson said Saturday that Trump responds to such requests “with great care and consideration, ensuring American tax dol-

7 states

lars are used appropriately and efficiently by the states to supplement — not substitute — their obligation to respond to and recover from disasters.” She said an administration goal is having state and local governments “invest in their own resilience before disaster strikes, making response less urgent and recovery less prolonged.”

While Mullin assured fellow senators during his confirmation hearing that he believed in FEMA’s mission, the agency’s future is uncertain. Trump has expressed a desire to push more responsibility for disasters down to states. The FEMA Review Council he appointed last year has not released a recommendation report expected to include sweeping changes to how the federal government supports disaster resilience, response and recovery

It was not immediately clear whether other states or tribes had also been told of approvals or denials that were not yet announced publicly Hawaii Gov Josh Green, a Democrat, said Wednesday his state had received a disaster declaration for devastating March flooding. Disaster requests OK’d for at least

construction,” Rao wrote, adding that

concerns outweigh the “generalized aesthetic harms” presented in the lawsuit. Associated Press writer Darlene Superville contributed to this report.

Artist renderings

ByJoshFleig ChiefInnovationO

fficer LouisianaInnovation/LouisianaEconomicDevelopment

OnFebruary6,2025,Louisianadidsomething ithasneverdonebefore

Forthefirsttimeatthestatelevel,wemadeitclear: buildingastrong,technology-enabledeconomyis essentialtoLouisiana’sfuture.Andthatfutureis arrivingfasterthanmanyrealize.

Acrossthecountry,autonomoussystemsare reshapinghowindustriesoperate.Self-driving trucks,unmannedmaritimevessels,andintelligent automationarenolongerabstractideas

They’rehere,alreadychang werespondtoemergencies nationalsecurity

Louisianaisnotwatching fromthesidelines Compan MetalSharkareprovingwe ofit.Saronicisinvesting$30 itsLouisianashipyardandwa millionNavycontractforits vessel.MetalShark,recently Defense,continuesexpand capabilities,includingunma bytheU.S.Navyandotherp happeningrightnowinours Louisianaworkersandpushi maritimeinnovation

TheFutur Through Robotsare coming...

Onourhighways,companieslikeAuroraand KodiakRoboticsaretestingautonomousfreight technologyalongLouisiana’slogisticscorridors, positioningthestateasaprovinggroundforthe futureoftransportation.Inheavyindustry,Louisiana islaunchingafirst-of-its-kindpilotwithSSESteel FabricationandPersonaAItosupporthumanoid roboticsinalivesteelyardenvironment.

thefirst time in Louisiana history that an electricutilityhas formally filedfor abandonment proceedings, and apparently the first such case in theU.S.

It is theculmination of asprawling fight that’s spanned from the coastal marshtoHouma courtrooms to the Baton Rouge offices of the PublicService Commission,a powerful five-memberbody that regulates utilities around the state. The PSC approved the abandonment of theLake De Cade lines, where the Sanamos’ camp sits. Other camp owners, elected officialsand SLECA are still battling over the fate of three more camp communitiesnearby that maysoonbeabandonedas well.

The saga is intensifying concerns over the future of coastal Louisiana, where oil canals,sea level rise, subsidenceand leveeshave already caused devastating land loss.Mapsshowhow muchofthe state’s boot sole has receded, while huge amounts of land surrounding theSanamos’ camp are expectedtobestripped awayinthe coming decades.

With climate change making hurricanes more powerful,land fading intothe water andthe cost of living pricing people out, many communitiesaround the coast are already fighting to stay afloat. The electric abandonment only applies to campowners now,but some wonderwhether other communities areat risk of permanently losing access to power after the next storm.

SLECAGeneral Manager Matthew Peters said it takesits obligation to serve all members seriously,and it has no plans to abandon service to additional customers.But when seeking FEMA aid for rebuilding the lines, Peters said the FEMA requirements made the cost of rebuilding too much.

“Theirreparable damage to theLake Lines caused by

HurricaneIda presented uniqueand unavoidable circumstances duetotheir location in remotecoastal environments and the extentofstorm damage,” Peters saidinanemail. “Our decision was guided by its commitment to balancing safety,cost, and fairness to all members of the cooperative.”

State Rep. JoeOrgeron, R-CutOff,iswarning that other power suppliers could trytofollowSLECA’s example. He referenced Gov Jeff Landry,whose camp in theAtchafalayaBasin is the siteofan annual gatorhunt fundraiser

“He’sgot acamp served by grid power,”Orgeron said. “Are they going to be next to be pulled out? It sets abad precedent to allow them to pull out whenever youhavethat much public engagement asking them to stay.”

Ben Sanamo and his father built the houseboat and started leasing the camp from ConocoPhillips,abig landowner in these parts, around thetimeJake was born. Now 12, Jake has essentially grownuponthe coastalbayous, spending

weekends riding in mudboats and fishing off the dock.

To keep their lights on, thefamilymakes an inconvenientbut necessary annualtrip. They motorout the 30 miles west from the Dularge Bayou, across Lake De Cade and what remains of thecommunity of fishing camps, some reduced to wooden pilings with old electric lines flapping in the breeze. The Sanamos pull up to their houseboat, where their oldelectric meter still sits on the dock, theconnecting lines lying in the brush. Then they fuel up thegenerator andprepare to tugthe houseboat 13 hours back to Cut Off, to avoidhavingthe boat fill up with moldand mildew over the harsh south Louisiana summer.The tug boat they useisnamed “Lil Jake,” after the youngest Sanamo, he said. Amonthafter telling the Sanamos and the other camp owners that it was abandoning electricservice, SLECA made allofthemanoffer: It would mail thema $1,000 check in exchange for waiving their right to future claims.

Sanamo said the $1,000

ing.

By then,the utility hadalreadysentout boats to pull up the old poles —adecision that has rankled somemembers of the PSC.

SLECA began negotiating with the FederalEmergency Management Agency over thedesignofthe new poles. Because it’s anonprofit, co-ops like SLECA can get FEMA to cover most of the cost of rebuilding after a storm

the area and the company doesn’twantits land to be disturbed by the rebuild.

“You know, haditbeen folks’ housesorbusinesses, I think that would be adifferent story,” Allen said. “But the position we’ve taken as acompany is that we’re not interested in further destruction of ourland to run ahardened line to serve, you know,just acouple or three dozenrecreational campsites.”

doesn’t come close to paying for theinconvenience.

Shifting terrain

SLECA was foundedin 1938, one in awave of rural electric cooperatives that formed as nonprofits owned by customers and controlled by elected boards. The co-op quickly found aniche servicing therapidly growing oil industry,asworkers dug canalsthrough the coastal marsh and extracted massive amountsofoil.

By the1960s,SLECA was racing to installwooden electric poles andstring up linesinareas likeLake De Cade. Its marriage with the oil industry remains: CompaniesincludingConocoPhillips and Apache LouisianaMinerals ownmuch of thelandwherethe poles sit, meaning SLECA needs rightsofway from the companies to rebuild.

After Ida, SLECA sent letterstocampownerssaying its infrastructure took on “unprecedented”damage andthattheyshould prepare for extended outages —perhaps fora year or longer Thenext year,the co-op’s leaderspromised they had “every intention” of rebuild-

The next year,SLECA toldcamp ownersthatits old power lines were no longeranoption: FEMA had a new requirement that poles could withstandhurricaneforce winds.

The utility’scostestimates ballooned once its engineers metFEMA’s standards, filings show.And in August 2024, SLECA voted notto rebuild the lines.

Peters, of SLECA, said the co-op toreout thepoles because they determinedthey weren’tsafe after Ida.Atthe time, SLECA’s “intent was to rebuild the system,not to abandon it,” he said.

The issue went to one of the Public ServiceCommission’sadministrative law judges, whooften hear PSC cases before the commission ultimately votes on them.

“The LakeLines are only accessible by boat,”Peters, the SLECA general manager, testified in the proceedings last year.“Maintenance requires specialized amphibious equipment. Even routine outages would require mobilizationofmarine fleets, equipment that SLECA does not own,therebydriving up laborand operation and maintenancecosts. The terrain has also changed significantly over the years due to coastal erosion andsubsidence. This is not atypical line replacement; it is ahighrisk, high-cost, low-revenue capital project.”

Another factor: Apache, one of the oil companies that owns thousands of acres of coastalland, is refusing to provide rights of wayto SLECA. Timothy Allen, general manager of Apache, testifieda few months ago that it’shard to rebuild in

Allen did not return amessage forthis story FEMA, which is affected by an ongoing partialgovernment shutdown, didn’t respond to questions for this story

Novelcase

Until now, only afew gas utilitieshavegonethrough abandonment procedures in the state when they stopped servicing ahandful of customers. The utilities paid customers to switch to electric appliances.

The SLECA case appears to be anovel one. Evenwhen the federalgovernment facilitated the massrelocation of residents of Isle De Jean Charles, thesinking barrier island in Terrebonne Parish, only the gas utility filed paperwork to abandon the island. Entergy still provides electric serviceto50electricmeters there, aspokesperson said. ScottHempling, adecades-long author of utility law textbooks and an adjunct professor at the Georgetown University Law Center,said he’s never heard of acase like it anywhere in the country SLECAhas said itsproblem boils downtomath: All SLECA customers would be on the hook forover $10 million to rebuild; the other90% of rebuilding costs would be paid by FEMA. When factoring in additional costs, it would total between $86,524 and $127,304 per camp owner, SLECA officials said in testimony.Ifthe utility rebuilt, the costs would likely be spread acrossall members, who would pay

an extra $3 to $5 a month over the next 30 years, according to documents filed by PSC staff.

While SLECA is choosing abandonment, Entergy made the opposite decision a few dozen miles southeast, in Grand Isle, after Ida.

The company had a similar math problem: To elevate substations, bury power lines and rebuild new fortified poles, it cost $80 million.

That’s about $80,000 per permanent resident on the barrier island.

But Entergy moved forward, in keeping with its long-standing policy to issue bonds and socialize the costs of hurricane recovery to all its customers Entergy called Grand Isle — mainly used as an outpost for fishing camps — a vital economic engine for the state. Workers used reclaimed oil pipelines to fortify poles. They put a substation 20 feet in the air

Phillip Carlos, one of the camp owners in the Lake De Cade area, said he rebuilt his entire camp after Hurricane Andrew destroyed it in 1992. It’s survived every storm since, he said.

Now 72, Carlos said it’s a hardship to haul diesel out to the camp every time he uses it. The former oilfield worker said SLECA “jumped the gun” ripping out all the infrastructure after Ida. He spent about $25,000 installing a generator

“My kids grew up out there,” he said. “I planned to spend a lot of my retirement time out there. Now, it’s hard.”

‘Vastly undercompensated’

At a hearing last month, several camp owners begged the PSC to stop SLECA from abandoning electric service to their camps. One said he bought a camp for $160,000 but has struggled to net a sale for it, and can’t get $40,000 for it now because of the lack of electricity. Commissioner Eric Skrmetta, a Metairie Republican, turned to a fellow member after the group’s testimony and said “the fact that they tore that s*** down without coming to us first is a problem.”

In an interview, Skrmetta said he’s disappointed SLECA seemed to “ask for forgiveness instead of permission.” He said the PSC can’t let this situation happen again and will likely require SLECA to pay camp owners who are losing electricity

“The folks are vastly undercompensated,” he said. “The commission is going to look at a greater

MALL

Continued from page 1A

Properties, which owns the mall.

GGP does not disclose occupancy rates or traffic data for the company’s more than 95 properties across the country, but the mall’s stability is hard to deny Popular European brands Mango and Zara have joined the Baton Rouge mall in recent years, elevating its fashion offerings. Sports gear and apparel retailer Dick’s Sporting Goods opened a behemoth House of Sports, filling a space formerly occupied by Sears, which mall leaders say is a major traffic driver well-received by customers.

While there have been store closures in the mall, many of the retailers that departed were due to a shuttering of the national company like Francesca’s, Forever 21 and Charlotte Russe though it’s getting a reprise through a partnership with sister brand Urban Planet. Other recent closures include the New Orleans jewelry brand Mignon Faget

The area south of Interstate 10 and west of Airline Highway, which includes 41 shopping centers, including the mall, had an overall 6.16% vacancy rate — lower than that of other areas that have fewer shopping centers and less leasable space — according to a presentation on the Baton Rouge retail market presented at the 2025 Trends conference.

“Our traffic remains strong, with weekends, of course, being the busiest time,” senior general manager Gene Satern said in a statement. “Just look at our parking lot on a Saturday.” Holcombe said the mall also draws customers from beyond the Capital Region, from Beaumont, Texas, to Orange Beach, Alabama.

The mall’s location is hard to beat: It’s in a key spot off Interstate 10 and borders some of the wealthiest ZIP codes in the parish.

While it’s largely a traditional indoor mall, its outdoor portion with stores including Apple, Columbia Sportswear and Sephora matches popular open-air shopping centers.

“You can park in one spot and go walk and hang out all day and

compensation package.” Peters, of SLECA, said they “take our obligation to serve all members seriously” and pointed to the $1,000 payment they offered to residents losing power as an example of a step to assist affected

members.

Joy Guillot, the administrative law judge who oversaw the case for the PSC, had determined in February that SLECA didn’t meet the requirements for abandonment under the PSC’s rules. Guillot

called some of SLECA’s evidence “meager and unsubstantiated,” but didn’t rule that rebuilding the lines was in the public interest, saying the record was insufficient.

But Commissioner JP Coussan, a Republican elected in 2024 whose district includes the camps, offered a proposal at last month’s meeting about how to move forward: The PSC would allow SLECA to abandon service to the Lake De Cade camps. The other three sets of lines — Lake Fields, Grand Pass and Four Point — would go back to the judge to be litigated further

All but one PSC member agreed.

Weeks after the meeting when the PSC agreed on abandonment, a camp owner in the Lake De Cade area filed a lawsuit in Houma’s district court against SLECA, arguing the utility failed to live up to its duty to provide service. He’s seeking class-action status, and lawyers held a meeting last week to spread the word in Houma.

Coussan said in an interview he’s not taking sides in the debate. But he said he agreed with PSC staff’s

get something to eat and shop and spend time and not have to worry about dodging the elements,” Holcombe said

Retail demise, consolidation

As the region’s premier shopping destination for the past 20 years, the mall has existed in stark contrast to similar shopping centers, which dropped from 25,000 in 1986 to just about 1,200 today, according to Capital One Shopping.

Baton Rouge is no stranger to this The region watched Cortana Mall slowly break off piece by piece as stores exited, in part due to competition with the Mall of Louisiana. Cortana saw sales drop 15% the first year the Mall of Louisiana was open. The year the mall opened, there were 11,500 new jobs in the Baton Rouge area, almost half of which were in wholesale and retail, according to a December 1997 article from The Advocate.

The former Cortana Mall is now the site of an Amazon fulfillment center Before Cortana, there was

Bon Marché Mall, which closed in 1990, and is now the Bon Carré Business Center Over the past two decades, many retailers have consolidated their stores, closing low-performing sites and honing in on their bestsellers. Super regional malls, those that are over 1 million square feet, like the Mall of Louisiana, have typically been the shopping centers to survive the consolidation.

“I think the retail community realized that there were too many stores, and so what they did is they prioritized the best shopping centers around the country for their store fleet,” Holcombe said. “They may have reduced their store count, but they’ve transferred those sales to the better store. The better super regional shopping centers like Mall of Louisiana are benefiting from that consolidation.”

‘Digitally native’ For Holcombe, the Mall of Louisiana’s strategy to compete is simple: Keep it fresh and unique.

When seeking new tenants, he looks for trendy, “digitally native” brands that don’t have many other stores elsewhere and resonate with customers. Local mom-and-pop stores that want to test-drive their concept with a short-term lease can also get a spot at the mall for a small upfront cost. Tenants that are part of this program include Haute Soles and Toy Depot.

Though malls are often seen as competing with online shopping platforms, in-person and online shopping complement one another he said. Customers have the option of searching for items online and exchanging it in person at the mall if it’s not the right fit — and maybe buy a few items while they’re there.

While trendy retailers are top of mind when seeking new tenants, mall staples remain key to the tenant mix. Holcombe said Dillard’s, “one of the hottest department stores out there,” has transformed the mall’s business. The mall’s nontraditional ten-

assessment that SLECA met its “burden of proof” for abandoning the Lake De Cade lines.

Coussan said the situation revealed “gaps in our oversight” after hurricanes. If SLECA hadn’t pulled out its infrastructure after Ida without notifying the PSC, he said it would have been easier to analyze the true costs of repair

“This is an extraordinary situation with distinguishable facts from anything that’s ever happened,” he said, adding that the PSC has to look out for all 17,000 SLECA members, not just the camp owners. Davante Lewis, one of two Democrats on the PSC and the only member to vote against Coussan’s proposal, said he’s concerned about the precedent SLECA is setting.

“These questions are going to arise,” Lewis said in an interview “With climate change, the intensity of storms Questions about the recovery costs and rebuilding costs of our infrastructure are no doubt going to be a question over the next 15 to 20 years.”

ants, such as Blue Zoo Aquarium, were brought in during the pandemic to provide experiential concepts while in-person retail was limited.

“It’s part of that curated offering of unique experiences and the entertainment that comes with it,” Holcombe said.

Future success

While young, trendy brands have a home in the mall, there’s some room to reach other audiences with high-end brands, Mark Hebert, of Kurz and Hebert Commercial Real Estate, said. Most luxury brands in the state set up shop in New Orleans, which helps attract other big-name brands, though Louisiana as a whole may struggle to attract high-end retail due to its population loss, he said.

Louisiana lost 84,000 residents from 2020 to 2023, though some parishes, including East Baton Rouge, have seen an uptick in the past few years. There are also some key vacancies surrounding the mall, including the former BuyBuy Baby location, which was briefly home to the seasonal Spirit Halloween, the Dick’s Sporting Goods space that became empty last year when the location inside the mall opened, and the former Pluckers Wing Bar Hebert said these vacancies point to a need to strengthen the mall’s offerings to drive traffic to surrounding retail.

“They have a lot of dark spots,” he said.

Wesley Moore, a partner with the real estate appraisal firm Cook, Moore, Davenport & Associates, said open-air shopping centers anchored by grocery stores like Towne Center with Whole Foods or the Rouses on Burbank Drive are what retailers are more interested in nowadays.

It’s an old, traditional model that’s resurfacing as part of a cycle, he said, where shoppers prefer to park their car in front of the store they want to go to rather than park in a large lot and weave their way inside.

The mall’s success is due in part to its access to the interstate, he said, and the restaurants surrounding it will support its longevity

“It can survive a good long time, assuming nothing newer or sexier opens elsewhere,” Moore said.

STAFF PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

Shoppers walk around the Mall of Louisiana on Thursday

STAFF PHOTOS By BRETT DUKE

Ben Sanamo prepares to tie up a boat as he approaches his family’s camp near Lake De Cade in Terrebonne Parish on March 26. A drum of diesel fuel sits in the foreground.

Warren Sanamo prepares to pump diesel fuel into the tugboat at his camp near Lake De Cade in Terrebonne Parish.

Rally highlights passion of young voters

BY JOEY CAPPELLETTI Associated Press

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — As stu-

dents banged on desks and stomped their feet inside a packed lecture hall at the University of Michigan, someone decades older stood in the back, quietly taking in the scene.

Debbie Dingell, a longtime Democratic congresswoman, was there to watch progressive U.S. Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed campaign with Hasan Piker a popular yet controversial online streamer Dingell has often served as an early warning system for her party cautioning that Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump was on track to win Michigan in 2016 and 2024. Now she was once again scoping out the shifting political landscape, and something caught her eye.

“Quite frankly, I haven’t seen that many people outside an event yet this year,” said Dingell, whose district includes Ann Arbor and who said her attendance wasn’t an endorsement.

A line of mostly young people stretched out the door and down the street, hundreds waiting in the cold evening air on Tuesday Some had backpacks slung over their shoulders after coming from class, while others had traveled from afar.

Although they were there to see a progressive candidate, attendees didn’t fit neatly into any ideological box. Instead, they shared a common dissatisfaction with both major political parties. Their frustration was a reminder of the anger that has coursed through modern American politics and now appears to be simmering within a new generation ahead of the midterm elections that will determine control of Congress.

Liam Koenig was in third grade when Trump was first elected president a moment that has shaped his generation’s understanding of politics.

“It’s just become increasingly more inflammatory,” he said.

Now a high school senior in Oakland County, a longtime political bellwether in Michigan, Koenig described an era of constant conflict and anxiety The mood among his peers he said, is often somber and frustrated.

“I think a lot of us have lost hope in, like, tangible change,” he said.

Younger adults are more likely than older Americans to have an unfavorable view of both the Republican and Democratic parties, according to AP-NORC polling from February Still, that frustration

hasn’t led to disengagement for Koenig. He waited for hours to see El-Sayed. He described the campaign as different from what he’s used to seeing, something more like Zohran Mamdani’s successful run for mayor in New York City He wanted that kind of energy in Michigan.

“You’re not going to get people out with business as usual,” Koenig said.

Karol Molina, an artist who recently moved from New York City, said she had been hunting for a candidate in Mamdani’s mold when she arrived in Michigan. She settled on El-Sayed, who is facing U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens and state Sen. Mallory McMorrow in the state’s primary

“We want to be able to live and like afford life without constantly scraping by,” she said.

Molina was looking for a clean break with the past.

“I think the Democratic Party is losing because they’re not really listening to what the people really want,” she said. “They’re trying to keep a party that existed before Donald Trump. And that party doesn’t exist anymore.”

Piker, a 34-year-old streamer with 3.1 million followers on Twitch and 1.8 million on YouTube, has described himself as a “megaphone” for an angry electorate. He’s also been controversial among Democrats for some of his rhetoric, including comments that “Hamas is a thousand times better” than Israel, some Orthodox Jews are “inbred” and “America deserved 9/11.”

In a recent interview with The Associated Press, Piker was largely unapologetic for his past remarks but said some were poorly worded. He called the renewed focus on them “totally ridiculous, especially considering that there are far more consequential things happening in the world right now.”

Ethan Schneider, a thirdyear student at the University of Michigan, described today’s politics as “a little unserious.”

“It’s difficult to remain positive or not be jaded at a young age,” said Schneider Schneider said he voted for Democrat Kamala Harris two years ago but, like many in line to see Piker and El-Sayed, was critical of her and her party.

“Hate them,” he said of Democrats. “They feel very complicit, in terms of all the issues going on now If not complicit, they’re just doing nothing,”

Younger people are rejecting both parties at much higher rates than older generations, according to recent Gallup polling. More

than half of Generation Z and Millennials identify as political independents, while a majority of older generations side with a party

The Gallup polling found that this growing group of independents tends to be motivated by unhappiness with the party in power — a dynamic that could benefit Democrats this year but doesn’t promise lasting loyalty

Jacob Abbott, an undergraduate student at the University of Michigan, said he feels that the Democratic Party has strayed toward “corporate interest politics.” To him, the backlash toward Piker reflects a broader vacuum in American politics — a lack of people who can command attention and speak to their frustrations, even if they’re flawed.

“So is Hasan perfect? Probably not,” Abbott said. “But he’s much better than the alternative the Democratic Party has had.”

Over decades in politics, Dingell has seen long lines and packed rooms before. She was trying to gauge whether there’s something more durable at the event with El-Sayed and Piker

After all, progressive candidates have long generated excitement without winning electoral victories. El-Sayed himself finished a distant second in Michigan’s Democratic primary for governor in 2018. In addition, independent Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, a leading face of the progressive movement, fell short in two Democratic presidential campaigns.

But some Democrats argue this moment may be different, pointing to recent victories by Mamdani in New York and Analilia Mejia, who won a crowded Democratic primary in a special U.S. House election in New Jersey

“There should be a progressive running everywhere that one exists,” said Pennsylvania Rep Summer Lee, who also appeared with El-Sayed.

“Every year, every race,” she added. “We might not be victorious, but every single time we have to call the question.”

Dingell said she’ll be looking to see what happens next.

“Is it something for the kids to do, or is it going to connect?” she said.

Associated Press writer Linley Sanders contributed to this report.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON

Streamer Hasan Piker, left, and Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive candidate in the Democratic primary for U.S Senate in Michigan, center right, take a selfie with young fans following a campaign event Tuesday at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Mich.

Historic drought threatens Ethiopia’s myrrh industry

Tree is key to luxury perfumes, African incomes

BY JULIANNE GAURON Associated Press

AFCADDE, Ethiopia The critical note in some of the world’s most well-known perfumes is myrrh, a tree resin from the Horn of Africa that is under pressure from what experts say has been a historic drought.

Threatened by the lack of water and nibbled by starving livestock, the trees that once formed a dense forest in the Somali region of Ethiopia are in danger locals say Earlier this year, researchers supported by the American Herbal Products Association, a trade group, and Born Global a nonprofit, visited a source of the prized resin that makes its way to global markets from some of the most vulnerable places on earth.

Their goal was to ensure that those who harvest the resin get more of the direct profits instead of middlemen along the opaque supply chain.

Ethiopia is a major source of myrrh, which has been used in beauty, health and religious practices since at least ancient Egypt. Traditional harvesting in the region has not changed, which helps to protect the trees and produces the highest quality resin.

Myrrh’s hand-harvested nature raises its price, but those doing the work see little of the profit. Collecting 2.2 pounds of the resin brings as little as $3.50 and as much as $10.

That’s far from the prices for the perfumes it helps to create, which are marketed by well-known fashion brands like Tom Ford, Comme des Garcons and Jo Malone, and sold at prices as high as $500 a bottle.

Meanwhile, curiosity about myrrh’s other potential uses is growing with increased global interest in natural remedies.

For now, most myrrh from this part of eastern Ethiopia is purchased by traders from neighboring Somalia. Ethiopia collects no taxes on the goods.

Local residents hope more visibility will help them as the climate crisis threatens their ways of life.

“They expressed hope that a direct market would enable them to secure better prices, ensuring sustainable livelihoods,” said Abdinasir Abdikadir Aweys senior researcher with the Somali Regional Pastoral and AgroPastoral Research Institute and a member of the research team.

The researchers were by Anjanette DeCarlo, expert in sustainable sup chains and resins at the Uni versity of Vermont, and phen Johnson, resin expert and owner of FairSour Botanicals. They found t communities practice ditional harvesting by lecting resin from tre naturally occurring woun instead of by making inten tional cuts, which mak trees more vulnerable pests and disease.

“Traditional practice is balance and protects trees. It should be celebrated,” Carlo said. But the drought worr the team. The annual ra have been failing over t past several years, int rupted in 2023 by devastating flooding.

The arid region has long seen droughts, but this one has been historic. Experts have blamed the changing climate. Myrrh harvesting is threatened. While adult trees are generally healthy, they are producing less resin. And fewer young trees are surviving.

“Unfortunately, many seedlings are uprooted by children who graze their livestock nearby, and the animals often eat the buds of the young trees,” said a local elder Mohamed Osman Miyir, adding: “We are deeply

Tribal gas stations offer reprieve from high prices

BY MEAD GRUVER Associated Press

FORT COLLINS, Colo. — Junelle Lewis

was on the hunt for a reprieve from Seattle-area gas prices driven high by the Iran war when an app on her phone gave her the answer: the Tulalip Reservation north of the city, almost half an hour from her home.

She didn’t hesitate.

“I purposely drove here just for the gas,” Lewis said while filling up her Chevrolet Suburban at the Tulalip Market this week for $4.84 a gallon about 75 cents less than prices near home. “Gas is ridiculous. But I have found, honestly, over the years, this gas station specifically is cheaper than a lot around here. Probably the cheapest.” Lewis isn’t the only driver who has discovered that some of cheapest fuel can be found on Native American reservations.

Especially in California, New Mexico, New York, Oklahoma and Washington state places with dozens of tribally owned stations, including some in busy travel corridors tribes exempt from state fuel taxes can sell for much less than competing stations nearby Apps such as Gas Buddy make finding the cheapest gas easier than ever.

BY ALEXA ST JOHN Associated Press

DETROIT After a few years of sharing a 2019 Chevrolet Trax, Dana Eble and Tyler Marcus are finally looking for a second car. But as they jump into the market, the young married couple isn’t sure what they can afford.

“I just keep seeing a lot of different aspects of life getting more expensive, and it’s harder,” said Eble, an account manager for a public relations agency Car ownership has long been integral to the American dream But as automakers slash the production of inexpensive models to cater to customers who can afford oversized pickups and sport utility vehicles, buyers find themselves facing sticker

Nationwide gasoline prices have risen by well over $1 since the Iran war began Feb. 28, reaching an average of $4.15 a gallon, according to AAA.

Deals are to be found, though, at many of the almost 500 tribally owned convenience stores with gas stations across the U.S.

Prices have been higher topping $5 during the summer of 2022, but economists believe they will continue heading up and contribute to inflation in the weeks of ahead as geopolitical tension persists.

shock at the same time they are already frustrated by the lingering effects of high inflation.

Consumer prices rose 3.3% in March, the biggest yearly increase since May 2024, while new car prices were up 12.6% from a year ago, the Labor Department reported Friday

New vehicles now sell for an average of nearly $50,000, up 30% in six years, and average monthly payments — based on 10% down and a 6-year note — recently hit $775. Looking for something on the cheap end? The share of vehicles listing for less than $30,000 is about 13% — down from 40% five years ago, per the car review site CarGurus To cope, buyers are spreading their payments out lon-

ger Consumers choosing 7-year loans make up more than 12% of all sales, up from nearly 8% a year ago, according to auto buying resource J.D. Power Such contracts wind up costing more in the long run because of interest payments.

“The ability to buy transportation is still out there. The question is just, what do you get for your money?” Charlie Chesbrough, a senior economist at Cox Automotive, said. The rising cost of cars is contributing to increased concerns about affordability throughout American life. Consumers, especially young people, say they feel like everyday needs like housing, food, utilities and child care are getting costlier and wages aren’t keeping up.

“I hope we don’t go any higher,” Cross said Thursday In eastern New York state, on Cattauragus Indian Territory between Buffalo and Erie, Pennsylvania, the cheapest gas was about $3.65 at more than half a dozen stations — 50 cents less than in towns nearby So how do tribes do it? Two words: tax exemptions. Generally tribes must pay the federal fuel tax of 18.4 cents per gallon for gasoline and 24.3 cents per gallon for diesel, and pass that cost along to drivers. State fuel taxes are a different matter For well over a century, U.S. courts have found that states don’t

Fifty-five are in California. At the Chukchansi Crossing Fuel Station & Travel Center between Fresno and Yosemite National Park, the $5.09 gas was 60 cents less than nearby stations. New Mexico resident Jamie Cross usually finds savings on the Mescalero Apache Reservation, where gas was as low as $3.79 this week.

“The Supreme Court consistently

It is a vulnerable position for Republicans ahead of this year’s midterm elections, especially as the Iran war has pumped up gas prices that makes getting behind the wheel even more expensive. Sticker prices have been rising since automakers discovered Americans are willing to pay more for bigger, more expensive SUVs and pickup trucks that bring the companies more profit from each sale. They have largely phased out smaller, cheaper sedans.

That is especially true for domestic carmakers; the average selling prices for many vehicles from Ford Motor Co., General Motors and Jeep-maker Stellantis have generally trended higher than those for Asian companies Honda, Hyundai, Mazda

and Subaru.

held to this view and it’s one of the most enduring principles in federal Indian law,” Lewerenz said. Federally recognized Native American tribes are in 35 states with state gasoline taxes ranging from 9 cents per gallon in Alaska to 71 cents in California. From there, things get complicated based on where the fuel is taxed at fuel terminals, say, or when distributors

held that an 1855 treaty between the U.S. and the Yakama Nation that ensured the free travel of tribal members on roads with their goods prohibited state fuel taxes on tribal lands in Washington state. “This is a little bit different than the principle that Indians aren’t taxed within Indian Country because this particular treaty reserved certain off-reservation rights for the Indians as well,” Lewerenz said.

Car companies are also savvy about placing desired options in more expensive trim levels that can lure consumers into a vehicle that costs more than they planned, said David Undercoffler, the head of consumer insights at CarGurus.

Advanced safety technology — lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, collision warnings and more all add to the cost of a vehicle.

Automakers are required by federal industry rules to add some features, such as rearview cameras.

The COVID-19 pandemic pushed up auto prices because production fell, affecting both the new and used markets. Though production recovered, other sup-

ply chain disruptions and tariffs have affected prices. Meanwhile, government data shows that car insurance prices have soared 55% compared with six years ago, or just before the pandemic, driving up the number of Americans going without. Car repairs, on average, are 48% more expensive. The share of new car buyers earning below $100,000 fell to 37% last year, down from 50% in 2020, according to Cox Automotive. Some carmakers have acknowledged affordability concerns. In February, Ford said it would have several vehicles prices under $40,000 by the end of the decade. GM has pointed to vehicles from Buick and Chevrolet, including the Trax, as cheaper options.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By LINDSEy WASSON Darryl Smith fuels up his truck after putting extra gasoline into cans at the Tulalip Market gas station Wednesday on the Tulalip Indian Reservation in Washington.

ELIMINATE BACK PAIN AND SCIATICA

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Before coming to LeBlancSpine Center, I suffered from lowerbackpain when standing andaconstantdullpaininmylower left hip fornearly threeyears.I hadCTscans,anMRI andeventriedphysicaltherapy,which only gave me somerelief. Afriendrecommended LeBlancSpine Center, andI’m so glad they did. Thedoctors andstaff aretop-notch-wonderful competent, andgenuinely interested in helping theirpatients.Since startingcare, I’ve improvedabout 80%. Ican nowstand longer,walk, fish,and enjoyactivitiesthatwere previouslylimited by pain.Infact, I’meven planningtwo vacationsthisyear. Before my visits,Ifeltlikemyworldwas shrinking. LeBlanc SpineCentergavethatworld back to me,and I recommendthemwithenthusiasm

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LOUISIANAPOLITICS

Johnson, Scalisefacea long,difficult to-dolist

WASHINGTON —U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson and House MajorityLeader Steve Scalise return to Capitol Hill Monday afternoon after atwo-week Easter break with along list of “mustpass” legislation —and an even longer list of hurdles, including the possibility that long linesatthe airports will return soon

The House and Senate have to fund the U.S. Department of HomelandSecurity to end ashutdown that hits its 60th day Wednesday.

GOP majority leadership, with the blessingof President Donald Trump, has astrategytoget around Democrats’ oppositiontofully funding Immigration &Customs Enforcement and Customs &Border Protection,two agencies under Homeland Security But that plan faces steep hurdles. Johnson, R-Benton, and Scalise, R-Jefferson, can’tafford to lose more than twoRepublicans on anumber of party-line votes required by the budget reconciliation procedure. Already,the right-wing Freedom Caucus is demandingto knowhow the government is going to paythe $86billion, three-yearcost, knowing that some of the offsets will tee off moderate Republicans.

Trump wants HomelandSecurity fixed by June 1.

Meanwhile, Johnson andScalise also have to move other controversial legislation that could bleed over into theeffort to fund Homeland Security

The surveillancepowers detailed in the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, called FISA, are set to expire April 20. The reauthorizationbill keepsbeing put offbecause some GOP members are demanding reforms.

And the ban on Medicaid payments to Planned Parenthood, soughtbyantiabortion members, expires July 4unless legislativelyrenewed, which also could fray feelings.

That doesn’tcount the looming $200 billion ask to replenisharmaments used against Iran. Nor does it includeTrump’s demand that Congress pass legislationrequiring proof of citizenship when registering to vote.

Push to end inspection stickersadvances

The push to get rid of vehicle inspection stickers across most of Louisiana has made it halfway through the Louisiana Legislature.

House Bill 1085, sponsored by Rep. Larry Bagley,R-Stonewall, would end state-mandated safety and emissions testing. Instead, drivers would need to get a sticker with aQR code that would allow police to quickly scan informationabout the registration, make, model, and VIN. The bill passed the House on an 86-7 vote on Wednesday

The new sticker wouldcost $6 a year.For example, someonewho renews avehicleregistration every two years would pay $12 and someonewho renews every four years would pay $24.

Even if the bill passes,some parts of the state would still need to get inspections for other reasons. New Orleans, Kenner and Westwego all have their own local inspection requirements, and East Baton Rouge Parish and surrounding parishes must get

TSAand ICE

Perhaps thebiggest hurdle is theimminent return of airport passengers waiting three to four hours to clear security.

Formore than two months, Democrats refused to agree to fund HomelandSecurity until stricter standards are placed on ICE and CBP agents charged with rounding up immigrantswho may have entered thecountry without proper documentation. The issuebecamemore salient after officers killed two U.S. citizens in Minneapolis.

Therefusal to fund HomelandSecurity left ancillary agencies like the Transportation Security Administration and the FederalEmergency Management Agency withoutmoney to pay employees who had no choice but to work. Unpaid TSA officers began quitting,calling in sick or otherwise not showing for work and causing airport security lines to shut down.

Those long lines relaxed after Trump’s March 27 order that HomelandSecuritydivert some of its money on hand to pay TSA.

But that is atemporary solution —one that could start ending this weekend for

emissionsinspections because of afederal order

Gov.Jeff Landry called for eliminating inspection stickers in his “State of the State” address to kick off thelegislativesession. After the bill passed the House on Wednesday,he celebrated on social media. “Great newsfrom the housefloor this afternoon!” thegovernor wroteonX “Weare onestep closer to eliminating the inspection sticker!”

‘Smartglasses’ recording bill passes

Abill that aimstostop people from surreptitiously recording conversations with devices like “smartglasses” has passed the Louisiana House.

House Bill 410, by Rep. Laurie Schlegel, R-Metairie, would require someone who is recording adirect conversation to disclose that they are doing so. Those who don’t could besued Louisiana would remain a“onepartyconsent” state, meaning a person recording does not have to getpermission to do so. But

someHomeland Security employees, ac-

cording to aDHS memo. Trump’s order

thebill would require the person recording to notify others in the conversation. The bill’ssupporters argue it would address growing kinds of online harassment.For example, so-called “manfluencers” use theglasses to record interactions with women, then post thevideos on social media.

HB410 passed the House along bipartisan lines; mostwho voted against it were Republicans. Opponentsfeared it would limit First Amendment rightsand could stop people, including journalists, from exposing wrongdoing.

“I have deep concern about the infringement upon our liberty,” said stateRep.Chuck Owen,RRosepine, who voted against the bill but acknowledged the issue was complex. “None of us ever envisioned AI. None of us ever envisioned glasses that can record.”

Critics have also said the proposal could stop abuse victims from gathering evidence against perpetrators; Schlegel included exemptions in thebill that she says would pre-

covered full salaries and back pay forthe missed pay periods between Feb. 14 and April 4.

“Any additional compensation owed to you will be paid once DHSfunding is restored. At this time, do not submit timecards forpay period 7(which began April 5) until further guidance is provided,” DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin wrote in his memo. “Weremain hopeful that Congress will fund the Department and allow us to reopen soon and get everyone back to work.”

Though the Democratic position has sympathy among someRepublicans, a lot moreconservatives have balked at establishing guidelines, arguing that those restrictions would cripple the Trumpadministration’sefforts to deport illegal immigrants.

Negotiations have, so far, failed.

And the situation becamemore fraught Tuesday with aletter U.S. Rep. Troy Carter,D-New Orleans, co-authored with two senators andanother representative

Raisinganother issuewith Trump’sdeportation efforts, the 30 Democrats signing the letter demanded an investigation into the practice of deporting immigrants to third countries where the deportees have no connections because the authorities deemed their homeland to be too dangerous. Afederal court ruled Feb. 25 that “third country removals” are illegal. The Trumpadministration has cut deals with 27 countries “to receive nonnationals deported from the United States,” the letter states. The signers want areport that includes the identities of the countries agreeing to take U.S. deportees, how many have been sent to third countries, and how much all this is expected to cost. Estimates are around $40 million.

But Democrats also are feeling pressure to fund Homeland Security,Rep. Jake Auchincloss, D-Mass., told “Fox News Sunday.”

“The clock is ticking because we’ve got the World Cup coming, and we need FEMA and other security agencies funded for that,” he said.

Email Mark Ballard at mballard@ theadvocate.com.

vent that. The bill passed Thursday in theHouse on a54-34 vote. It now heads to theSenate.

State creates rural health office

Louisiana has created anew Office of Rural Health Transformation and Sustainability that will oversee morethan $208 million that the federal government is giving Louisiana to improve healthcare access forrural communities.

“For too long, rural communities have faced barriers to accessing care,” Gov.Jeff Landry said in anews release after signing an executive order to create the office.

“Today,weare taking decisive action to strengthen those systems so that every Louisianan has access to high-quality,reliable care close to home.”

Almost1.1 million people live in rural Louisiana parishes, the news release said. They face higher rates of chronicdisease and have aharder time finding and seeing adoctor.The providers that do exist in those areas face huge hurdles to hiring enough doctors and nurses.

The new office will oversee efforts to recruit health care workers to rural areas, modern-

ize technology,and improve coordination among health care services, among other work, the release said.

“Weare ensuring that aresident in Tensas or Cameron Parish receives the samecaliber of preventive and emergency care as someone in the heart of New Orleans, making high-quality health care alocal reality,not a long-distance journey,” said Louisiana Surgeon General Dr.Evelyn Griffin.

Registration deadlines near for election

The deadlines to register to vote or change party affiliation before the May 16 election are approaching soon.

The deadline to register in person, by mailoratanOMV office is Wednesday,April 15.

The deadline to register online at geauxvote.com is April 25.

Party registration is particularly important this year because of the state’snew closed primary elections.

Voters whoare registered to a party can only vote in that party’s primary; voters whoare registered as “no party” can vote in the elections forone party of their choice.

Early voting is May 2-9, excluding Sunday,May 3.

Capitol Buzz STAFF REPORTS

Mark Ballard

Bagley

Owen

Schlegel

Trump and Pope Leo on polar positions over Iran

Contrasting messages over war are divisive

BY BILL BARROW Associated Press

Donald Trump is accustomed to criticism from coast to coast — Democrats, disaffected Republicans, late-night comedians, massive protests. Yet in his second presidency, Trump’s most influential American critic doesn’t live in the country but at the Vatican.

It’s an unprecedented situation, with the first American pope directly assailing the American president over the war in Iran, where a fragile ceasefire took hold this week.

The announcement came after Pope Leo XIV declared that Trump’s belligerence was “truly unacceptable.”

Never before has the relationship between Washington and the Vatican revolved around two Americans — specifically, a 79-year-old politician from Queens and a 70-year-old pontiff from Chicago. They come from the same generation and share some common cultural roots yet bring jarringly distinct approaches to their positions of vast power And the relationship comes with risks for both sides.

“They’re two White guy boomers but they could not be any more different in their life experiences, in their values, in the way they have chosen to live those values,” said theology professor Natalia Imperatori-

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTOS

very stark contrast, and I think an inflection point for American Christianity,’ says theology professor Natalia Imperatori-Lee of Fordham University.

Lee of Fordham University “This is a very stark contrast, and I think an inflection point for American Christianity.”

Experts on the Catholic Church emphasized that Leo’s opposition to the war reflects established church teachings, not the reflexive politics of the moment.

“For the last five centuries, the church has been involved in a project of helping develop strong international norms,” including the Geneva Conventions in recent centuries, said Catholic University professor William Barbieri. “It is a very long-standing tradition rooted in Scripture and theology and philosophy.”

Yet the U.S. administration, which has close ties to conservative evangelical Protestant leaders, has claimed heavenly endorsement for Trump’s war on Iran

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged Americans to pray for victory “in the

name of Jesus Christ.” When Trump was asked whether he thought God approved of the war, he said, “I do, because God is good — because God is good and God wants to see people taken care of.”

The Rev Franklin Graham, son of iconic Baptist evangelist Billy Graham, said of Trump that God “raised him up for such a time as this.” And Graham prayed for victory so Iranians can “be set free from these Islamic lunatics.”

Leo countered in his Palm Sunday message that God “does not listen to the prayers of those who wage war, but rejects them.” He referenced an Old Testament passage from Isaiah, saying that “even though you make many prayers, I will not listen — your hands are full of blood.”

While it’s not unusual for popes and presidents to be at cross purposes, it’s exceedingly rare for the leader of the Catholic Church to di-

Pope to kick off 11-day trip to Africa

BY NICOLE WINFIELD

Associated Press

VATICAN CITY When Pope

Leo XIV pronounced himself a “son of St. Augustine” the night of his election, some Algerians took that to mean his ancestors hailed from the North African country where the 5th-century saint lived and died

Leo’s line, of course, referred to his Augustinian spirituality But his connection to the Algerian-born St. Augustine, the towering figure of Christianity who is known well to Algeria’s Sunni Muslim majority, served at the very least to favorably introduce Leo to a country that will welcome him Monday for the first-ever papal visit.

Leo’s two-day stay kicks off an ambitious odyssey across four African countries — Algeria, Angola, Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea that is so dizzying in its logistical complexity that it recalls the globetrotting journeys of St. John Paul II in his early years.

The 70-year-old Leo will cover more than about 11,000 miles on 18 flights over 11 days starting Monday and will deliver speeches and homilies in French, Spanish, Portuguese and English.

He’s prioritizing a part of the world that is crucial for the continued growth of the Catholic Church, but poses unique challenges as well. With such a variety of cultures and histories, the themes he’ll raise run the gamut, including migration and the exploitation of natural and human resources in a region that produces much of the world’s oil, but where significant proportions of the population live in poverty

The Vatican says Leo will also speak about corruption in oftentimes authoritarian regimes and the role of political leaders in countries where two of the presidents have been in power for decades.

Huge crowds are expected in Cameroon, where 29% of the population is Catholic and 600,000 people are due to attend one of Leo’s Masses. Leo will preside over a “peace meeting” in Cameroon’s north-west city of Bamenda, which has been plagued by separatist violence.

“To see His Holiness Pope Leo XIV arrive in Cameroon, for us who are Catholic Christians, it further

strengthens our faith, it further strengthens our ties with our God,” said Simon Pierre Ngombo, a Catholic Cameroonian. “It is a perfect moment to touch each other’s hearts.” Africa as a whole contributed more than half of the 15.8 million new Catholics who were baptized in 2023, or 8.3 million new African Catholics, according to the latest Vatican statistics.

The continent also contributes thousands of men to the priesthood and women to religious orders each year turning a continent that was long on the receiving end of Western missionaries into one that exports its priests and nuns abroad.

rectly criticize a U.S. leader and Leo later named Trump directly and expressed optimism that the president would seek “an off-ramp” in Iran.

An even stronger condemnation came after Trump warned of mass strikes against Iranian power plants and infrastructure, writing on social media that “an entire civilization will die tonight.”

Leo described that as a “threat against the entire people of Iran” and said it was “truly unacceptable.”

Imperatori-Lee said Leo’s direct criticism stands out from the church’s more general critiques of political and social systems For example, Pope Francis urged U.S. bishops to defend migrants without specifically mentioning Trump or his deportation agenda. Leo also previously called for humane treatment of migrants.

“Popes have critiqued un-

fettered capitalism before, very robustly. The popes have critiqued the Industrial Revolution, right? Things that the U.S. has been at the forefront of,” ImperatoriLee said, “but it’s never been this specific and localized.”

She said Leo’s commentary resonates in the U.S. with Catholics and nonCatholics — because he is a native English speaker

“There’s no question about his inflection and meaning,” she said. “It removes any ambiguities.”

Trump welcomed Leo’s election last May as a “great honor” for the country, and he hasn’t responded to the latest criticisms.

The White House did not respond to a request for comment.

“What Pope Leo and Donald Trump have in common is they both lived through the post-war polarization,” including the political upheaval of the Civil Rights

Movement and Vietnam War, said Steven Millies, a professor at Chicago’s Catholic Theological Union, one of the pope’s alma maters. He noted that Leo is a subscriber to The New York Times, plays the “Wordle” game, keeps up with U.S. sports and talks regularly with his brothers, including an avowed Trump supporter “In some ways he’s just like us,” Millies said, someone “who understands where our domestic political crisis came from,” unlike the Argentinian Francis, “who did not fully understand the peculiarities of the United States” even as he offered implicit criticism.

Barbieri said Leo’s American savvy still does not change an underappreciated reality of Catholicism and the papacy “The Catholic Church doesn’t neatly fit into either right or left boxes as they’re understood in U.S. politics,” he said.

If you’ve ever thoughtabout adding roses to your yard butfeltintimidated,thisspringmight be theperfect moment to start.Growing them in SouthLouisiana is more accessible than many think, andwitha fewsimpletips, gardenersofall skilllevelscan enjoyintroducing showstopping blooms to theiryard.

“The idealtimefor people to plantroses in Louisianaisright now,”saidBeauMutrie, DigitalMedia ManageratLouisiana Nursery. “You canplant roses from fall throughspring andgetting them establishedbeforethe summer heat is what really matters. Frostdates aren’t as bigofa concern, though alatefreezecan zap newspringbudsand delayflowering.” ARosefor EveryGarden

This season,Louisiana Nurseryhas gone all in—offeringmorethan100 varietiesspanning hybrid teas,floribundas, grandifloras, English roses, andlandscape favorites. It’s thelargest andmostdiverse selectionthe nurseryhas carriedinovera decade Amongthe standoutsare classichybridtea roses, knownfor theirlarge,elegant blooms and long stems—idealfor cuttingand arranging. “PopeJohnPaulIIisprobablyour number onefavorite,”Mutriesaid. “Itchecksevery box—it looksgreat,smellsgreat,and makesa beautifulcut flower. Fragranceisalsohavingamoment. Varieties likeEarthAngelParfuma,withitslayeredcreamand-pink,peony-stylebloomandrichscent,have become customer favorites. DavidAustin’srose varietiesoffer intricate, multicolored romantic blooms that arepopular with collectors andare exclusivelyavailable at LouisianaNursery’s PerkinsRoadlocation.PeggyMartin,alsoknown as the“HurricaneKatrina Rose”, is aclimbing varietyrecognized forits remarkable resilience In 2005,the floraofSoutheast Louisianawas devastated by Hurricane Katrina, butwhenthe brackish floodwatersreceded, PeggyMartin roseswerediscoveredtobealive andcapable of thriving.Theyhavesince developeda following that is expected to continue growingthanksto itshardiness,aswellasits lush blooms that are idealforcreatingwhimsicalflowerarrangements. Otherlow-maintenance,landscape roses, like KnockOutsand Driftroses,are also especially well-suitedfor Louisiana’sintense sunand heat

“Ifyou’rejustgetting started, KnockOutsand Driftrosesarethewaytogo,”saidMutrie.“They’re hardy,colorful,anddon’trequirealotofupkeep.” SettingRoses Up forSuccess

When it comestosetting rosesupfor success, abundant sunshine is themostimportant factor Rosesneedatleast sixtoeight hoursofdirect

sunlight aday.Goodairflowisanother keyto preventing disease, especially in densely planted beds.Thoughtfulspacing andgooddrainage canhelpkeepplantshealthy.Raisedbedsor containers canbeusedtoimprovedrainage when needed.It’salsobesttowater roses at thebaseofthe plantearly in themorning to keep leaves dryand reduce theriskofdisease OneofthebiggestchallengesforrosesintheGulf Southisn’t cold—it’shumidity. Excessmoisture canleadtofungaldiseases,makingplantselection especiallyimportant.RoseslikeBelinda’sDream andJulia Childhavebecome reliable choices as theyarebredtowithstandtheregion’sconditions.

“InLouisiana,‘diseaseresistant’roses offer a greater resistance to humidity-related issues,” Mutrie explains.“When ourteamisselecting varietiestooffer in-store,welookfor ones that canhandlethe intenseheat andmoisture, while stillperforming well.”

Pruningisanother simpleway to keep roses healthyandencouragerepeatbloomsthroughout theseason. In mid-February,mostroseplants canbetrimmed back significantly,and they will quicklyput on newgrowthastemperaturesrise. Astheseasonprogresses,regulardeadheading makesa bigdifference.Removingspent blooms helpsthe plantredirectenergy into producing newflowersratherthanmaintainingold ones When cutting, follow thestemdowntothe first healthy, outward-facing leaf setwithfive leaflets andmakeyourcut aboutaquarter inch above it at aslightangle.Thisencouragesthe plantto grow outward, improvingairflowthrough the center andreducingthe risk of disease.

In addition to selectingdisease resistant varietiesand regularpruning,manygardeners also benefit from usingall-in-oneproductsthat combinefertilizerwithpestand diseasecontrol Avariety of liquid andgranularall-in-onerose food anddisease controloptions areavailable at LouisianaNursery locations.

WheretoBegin

“Ifyouhaveenoughsun,youcangrowroses,”said Mutrie.“Startwiththeeasierlandscapevarieties andbuildfromthere.Theyareworthwhileplants to showcase in gardensofall shapes andsizes.” With itsexpandedinventory,knowledgeable staff,and updatedinformational signsand plant tags,LouisianaNurserylooksforwardtomaking it easier than ever forcustomers to findthe right rosefor theirspace andskill level.

LouisianaNursery’s 2026 RoseListisnow availableonline, featuringover100 varieties— from beginner-friendlylandscape rosesto premiumcollector favorites. Explorethe full list at louisiananursery.com/roses

President Donald Trump left, and Pope Leo XIV are ‘a

Mom fights for fair school dispute hearings

Special education advocates want schools to bear burden of proof

BY MARIE FAZIO

Staff writer

When Christina Martin’s 9-yearold daughter Vinaya was diagnosed with a rare neurodevelopmental disorder and autism as a toddler Martin was thrust into an unfamiliar world.

In the years since, the Kenner parent has spent countless hours navigating the complexities of special education and learning the ins and outs of federal and state disabilities law

But even for a parent as knowledgeable and engaged as Martin, making sure her daughter receives the services she needs to excel in school still feels like an uphill battle

“When you’re constantly having to advocate, question decisions and just fight to be heard,” Martin said in a recent interview, “you start to realize that the system isn’t really built for us.”

Now Martin and other advocates are trying, with the help of a state lawmaker, to make it easier for parents to take action when they believe schools aren’t meeting their children’s needs.

Under existing state law, parents can request a due process hearing before an administrative law judge if they feel a school has not followed their child’s special education plan. But parents must prove the school failed to properly educate their child — a high bar that few families clear Martin, who is going through the dispute resolution process

ASKING

Q&A WITH CHRISTINA MARTIN

ADVOCATE FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION

with Jefferson Parish Schools where her daughter attends, said the deck is stacked against parents. So she and other advocates approached Rep. Alonzo Knox, D-New Orleans, who introduced House Bill 342 this legislative session to address their concerns.

The bill aims to shift the burden of proof in due process hearings from parents to schools, which would have to show that they provided the necessary services and support to students with disabilities.

The House Education Committee approved the bill Wednesday, sending it to the full House for a vote.

The bill “helps level the playing field for families, promotes transparency, and reinforces the importance of school systems maintaining accurate and complete” special education records, Knox said in a statement.

In a recent interview, Martin discussed her advocacy for students with disabilities and why she thinks the due process law needs to be changed.

This interview has been condensed and edited for clarity

What does advocacy look like for you?

My daughter was diagnosed with autism around 2 and with CTNNB1 syndrome, a rare genetic disorder, around 3. I tried to research and connect with organizations because, like most families, it was unfamiliar territory As I learned more, I realized I could become an advocate not only for my child, but for other children

I’ve sat on boards and commissions and worked with our

statewide grassroots advocacy network (called Louisiana Council’s Advocacy Network) up at the Capitol. I’m involved in a lot of different initiatives that support independent living and safety and inclusivity for people with disabilities.

Can you explain how the dispute resolution process works?

Right now the burden of proof is on families. That means that we have to prove that the school failed our child.

But the school has all of the data, the evaluations, the staff to do this legally with our taxpayer dollars. They have all the documentation and they do not offer those records to families as openly as they should.

Families are trying to prove something wasn’t done or wasn’t appropriate. That’s really hard to prove when you’re going up against an entire school district, especially if you don’t have the money for legal representation. That imbalance puts families at a serious disadvantage, and it’s one of the biggest reasons, I think, why the system feels so overwhelming for kids and families who have students in special education.

Why do you think the law should be changed?

In my experience, it’s been a constant uphill battle.

Even when you know your child’s needs, you’re often put into this position where you have to understand laws, gather evidence if necessary, challenge professionals who already have those resources available to them and more knowledge of the systems

in which you’re working within.

They also have full access to your child’s records.

It’s an exhausting process, if I’m being honest. And for many families, it’s probably not sustainable.

What does it look like in other states?

Most states do place the burden on families, but New York, New Jersey and Connecticut have all shifted the burden of proof to school districts.

I believe there’s a growing movement across the country to make this change, so I don’t think Louisiana would be doing something radical or out of the ordinary It would just be catching up to states who’ve already

recognized this imbalance and fixed it. It would make the system more equitable. What else should readers know?

Being a special needs parent means becoming an advocate, whether you’re ready or not. You have to learn laws, attend meetings, track services and constantly push to make sure that your child gets what they deserve. Families shouldn’t have to fight this hard just to access an appropriate education. At the end of the day it isn’t just about policies and laws. It’s about real kids who have equal rights to education, like everyone else, and making sure that they have an opportunity to thrive.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Christina Martin and her daughter, Vinaya

Spiders the size of a palm are popping up across the U.S.

BY SUMMER LIN Los Angeles Times (TNS)

There is a spider making a home in the U.S, that’s the size of your palm and soars through the air riding the wind. Although the Joro spider, an invasive species that has been spotted across the United States, isn’t dangerous, its size and the web it creates can seem like props from a horror movie.

“They’re not medically significant,” said Pat Wooden, the insect identification lab manager at Virginia Tech.

“They’re great big bugs, but they’re not going to bite you and cause terrible damage They’re established really well, so there isn’t a whole lot we can do against them. Their spider webs can get up to 10 feet.”

The spider has recently been found in California, with the first report in October Wooden said.

They don’t have any natural predators and have a big web that is able to capture

a diverse range of prey, including beetles, wasps and stink bugs. The spiders are also good at distancing themselves from each other so they aren’t in competi-

tion.

Wooden recommends that people try not to panic and do nothing if they happen to see one. The spiders benefit humans by acting as

natural pest control, eating mosquitoes, biting flies and invasive stink bugs. Their venom isn’t dangerous to people or pets and they seldom bite.

The spiders disperse themselves by “ballooning,” in which spiderlings release silk that catches in the wind, letting them travel.

This falsely gives people the impression that the spiders can somehow fly

“They’re incredibly prevalent and people interact with them a lot,” she said.

“We’ve gotten past the people thinking that they flew, which was the real scary thing that came with them.”

The first time the spider was spotted in the U.S was in Georgia in 2014, likely brought to the country through shipping containers from China, Taiwan, Japan and South Korea, Wooden said.

The spiders are especially prevalent in Appalachia and have also been spotted in South Carolina North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Mississippi, Alabama, Ohio and Florida.

“We learned that we’re just going to be stuck with them,” Wooden said.

“They’re becoming more prevalent and they’re slowly making their way across the southeast When we recently did work in Ten-

nessee, every single rock alcove had one in it.”

The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources find the spider so intriguing that they launched a website, Jorowatch.org, to track where the spiders have popped up across the country Most have been reported in Georgia. The website shows some spiders reported as recently as October in Santa Barbara County

According to the website, the spiders are active from September to October and are orb-weavers known for spinning spiral wheelshaped webs. They can be identified by a yellow abdomen with red markings, and by the golden color of their webs.

Male Joro spiders are about 0.25 inches in size and brown while female spiders are about 1.25 inches and yellow

The spiders’ white egg sacs, usually laid between October and November, are often attached to leaves, tree bark and flat structures and contain 400 to 500 eggs, according to Jorowatch.

BY CLAUDIA CIOBANU Associated Press

OTREBUSY, Poland On rainy spring nights in a forest near the Polish capital, a citizen “Frog Patrol” springs into action — humans helping amphibians survive dangerous road crossings for a chance to enjoy millenniaold mating rituals.

As warmer weather comes to Mlochowski Forest, 19 miles west of Warsaw thousands of toads and frogs wake up from their winter slumber and begin their meticulous spawning journey to the marshes, a few kilometers away

The females carry the burden of the journey Male toads here don’t really give off princely vibes but travel on the backs of their much larger female partners, tightly holding on to ensure they are not dumped in favor of a rival upon reaching the waters.

While generations of toads and frogs have traveled to these marshes to mate, a road built in the last decade right across their route made the spring journey much more dangerous. What followed was sheer amphibian slaughter — when the mating season started and the frogs were on the move, thousands would get run over Łukasz Franczuk, coordinator of the “Frog Patrol” initiative, recounted the sad scenes from four years ago

“The frogs were being run over in the hundreds or thousands,” he said. “When you were driving on this road, you could see the decomposing corpses of the frogs. People going to collect the surviving ones were crying, they couldn’t stand to watch what was happening.” Franczuk and his friends responded by helping lo-

a ‘Frog Patrol’ in Otrebusy Poland.

cals organize, starting three years ago.

grating, there are a lot of people here,” she added.

Locals say they have saved about 18,000 amphibians since their initiative started. Amphibians

Volunteers would meet every wet, rainy evening as soon as spring starts, fan out along the road by the forest and collect frogs from the roadside, then carry them safely across to the marshes. Frogs breathe through their skin, which must stay humid, so they only move and migrate when it rains.

Wearing reflective yellow vests emblazoned with the words “Frog Patrol” and armed with head lamps and buckets, hundreds of volunteers can now be routinely seen out in the evenings during migration season.

Locals, including children, have also started carrying gloves with them during the day, so they can pick up the amphibians if they see them in distress at any time

“It’s really impressive to see whole families with kids walking in the rain, with buckets, in these lovely jackets to make them visible because it’s pretty unsafe, this road is narrow, and they carry the frogs from one side of the road to the other,” said Katarzyna Jacniacka, one of the participants

“When the frogs are mi-

Notice is hereby givenpursuanttoArticle 7, Section23(C) of theLouisiana Constitution andR.S.47:1705(B)thata public hearingof theLaw EnforcementDistrictofLivingston Parish will be held at itsregular meeting place, theoffice of Livingston Parish Sheriff JasonArd,20300 Government Blvd,Livingston, Louisiana70754 on Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at 10:00a.m.toconsiderlevying additional or increasedmillage rateswithoutfurther voterapprovaloradoptingthe adjusted millagerates afterreassessmentand rolling forwardtorates nottoexceedthe prior year’s maximum. Theestimated amount of taxrevenuestobecollected from theLaw Enforcement(Maintenance) taxinthe next year from theincreased millageis$10,111,452.06, andthe amount of increase in taxesattributable to theincreased millageis$2,491,921.84.

PROVIDED PHOTO

The Joro spider, an invasive species that has been spotted across the United States, isn’t dangerous, but its size and the web it creates can seem like props from a horror movie.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By CLAUDIA CIOBANU

Katarzyna Jacniacka, left, and biologist Krzysztof Klimaszewski examine a common toad during

THE GULF COAST

Paid parking expanding in popular destinations

But lots fuel frustration, debate among residents, tourists

BY MARTHA SANCHEZ Staff writer

On Florida’s gleaming coastline, just up the road from the beach, Mike Cover is worried about his restaurant’s parking lot

He suspects tourists are using it now that Walton County, home to Scenic Highway 30A, is charging them $5 an hour to park in spots closer to the waves

“Nobody likes it,” Cover said of the new paid parking program, which began this month. “All it does is push people to places where they’re not paying to park.”

His frustration reflects a growing challenge across the Gulf Coast, where a surge of tourists and newcomers are crowding parking lots and prompting beach towns to start charging for spaces.

It is also a sign of how local governments across the region are trying to harness tourism’s economic benefits without upsetting wary locals.

In Walton County, leaders sought compromise: Locals can buy an annual parking permit for $5, and revenue from the program will fund county operations. The area’s visitors often come from large cities, including New Orleans and Atlanta.

“Paid parking is not necessarily a foreign concept,” said Matt Algarin, Walton County’s tourism director. “I don’t think that it will be a shock to people.”

The idea is catching on across the region.

Leaders in Okaloosa County, Florida, near Destin and Fort Walton Beach, are considering a new system that would require noncounty residents to pay for parking at beaches and boat ramps.

In Alabama, Gulf State Park

beach recently increased daily parking passes from $10 to $15 and annual passes from $100 to $200.

City leaders converted 300 parking spaces from free to paid two years ago in the middle of downtown Pensacola, Florida. Paid lots also began spreading several years ago in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, despite protests from some locals who still refuse to visit downtown on weekends because of how hard it is to find a parking spot. Most of them are concentrated in a few blocks of downtown — near restaurants, shops and the beach — and fill up on weekends. There’s also a free parking garage a block away from the wa-

terfront stretch of the Bay but the city-run lot will sometimes close for private events on busy tourism days.

County governments say the paid parking systems benefit beach communities because they use tourist dollars to pay for infrastructure improvements without raising locals’ taxes. Paid parking programs also give local leaders data about how often visitors use beaches, boat ramps and parks, and what months the amenities are most busy

Privately owned parking lots have been turning up around the Gulf Coast, too.

“You have an influx of people from out of town coming in that are willing to pay,” said Jordan

Bradford, the City Council president in Bay St. Louis. Several lots in the city are owned by Premium Parking, a New Orleans-based company that has expanded across the country

“Somebody saw that market and decided to capitalize on it,” Bradford said.

Demand for parking

The pay-to-park systems create mixed feelings in beach communities.

In Okaloosa County, leaders said many residents are asking questions about how the idea would work but have not rallied against it in large numbers. But many Bay St. Louis locals were upset several years ago when the parking lots

they often used for free began charging a few dollars an hour

Demand for parking has not slowed since.

“People use the hell out of them,” said Thomas Genin, a Bay St. Louis restaurant owner whose customers often complain of too little parking, said of the private lots.

“People will just go in and pay now because they’re not going to drive around for 30 minutes trying to park.”

Some beach destinations intend to use the new parking revenue to expand and improve existing lots.

Trey Goodwin, chairman of Okaloosa County’s board of commissioners, said surging demand in recent years has outpaced what most lots can accommodate.

“That difference, where you’ve got more demand than capacity, is really driving this concept of generating additional revenue,” he said. “This just represents a logical next step in how to capture those outside dollars to make our product and our community even better.”

Local governments are now spreading the word about new parking rules to visitors and residents. The tourism office in Walton County is working with hotels to alert guests of the new fees. Bay St. Louis leaders say they are working to end overnight parking as one step to solve the dilemma of packed lots.

The community also has a free, city-owned parking garage a few blocks away from its main stretch of restaurants. Still, locals say the garage is little-known and underused.

Cover is the manager at AJ’s Grayton Beach, a seafood restaurant nestled between palm trees just off 30A. Now, he said he fears the new rules will “turn us into Destin,” where paid parking is common and some business owners patrol their lots for non-paying tourists.

Cover said his restaurant was not crowded one recent afternoon. But the parking lot was full.

STAFF PHOTO By JUSTIN MITCHELL

Paid parking lots began spreading several years ago in Bay St. Louis, Miss., a popular destination for Louisiana tourists.

Firm to consult on start time shift

BR schools mull contract with Prismatic

BY CHARLES LUSSIER Staff writer

As the East Baton Rouge Parish school system continues to pursue its twin goals of improving student transportation and changing school start times, it’s

Bills aim to curb fatal police pursuits

After deadly chase in 2022, stricter penalties, apps could help

BY AIDAN McCAHILL

Staff writer

On New Year’s Eve in 2022, Baton Rouge police attempted to pull over Tyquel Zanders near the Raising Cane’s Center on River Road. But the 24-year-old, who had recently broken into his parents’ home and stolen his father’s Nissan Altima, sped off into heavy midday traffic

The Baton Rouge Police Department followed with multiple units exceeding 100 miles per hour, running red lights and forcing other motorists onto the medians. As Zanders crossed the Mississippi River Bridge into West Baton Rouge Parish, officers from other departments joined, including then-Addis Police Officer David Lee Cauthron.

At the intersection of La. 1 and St. Francis Street, Cauthron barreled through a red light at nearly 90 miles per hour killing Brusly High School cheerleaders 15-yearold Caroline Gill and 17-year-old Maggie Dunn. The crash also left Maggie’s brother Liam with lifelong injuries.

As the Brusly community reeled after the girls’ deaths, a massive public outcry ensued — from attorneys, activists and then-East Baton Rouge Parish Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome. Much of the criticism fell on the BRPD for not calling off the pursuit, which some claimed was initiated over a low-level offense committed by someone whose location could have easily been found without a chase.

A legislative task force was created to address how to prevent similar situations from ever happening again.

“What we found was, it was a lack of training (for officers), mostly because of the funding,” said state Sen Caleb Kleinpeter R-Port Allen, who chaired the task force and has worked closely with the victim’s parents.

Four years later, Cauthron is serving a 10-year sentence for manslaughter, Zanders is still awaiting trial, and some of those calls for change are taking shape.

“It’s been a slow process, but we’re making ground,” said Jason Gill, the father of Caroline, who has since called for improved bystander safety during police chases.

Departments around the capital region are rolling out new technology designed to alert drivers of nearby pursuits. At the same time, two bills making their way through the state Legislature aim to stiffen penalties for those who flee police, and fund training for officers for

retaining the professional assistance of a North Carolina consulting firm that specializes in both. Prismatic Services, based in Charlotte, is poised to enter into its third contract with the school district On April 2, the parish School Board voted unanimous-

ly to re-up with Prismatic for nine more months at a cost of $175,000. A final vote is planned for April 16

The contract is the successor to the $45,000 and $245,000 contracts previously struck with the firm The new contract would

start April 20 and expire at the end of January The district’s Transportation Department has been under the microscope since a disastrous start to the 2023-24 school year during which a severe shortage of drivers and working buses led to many children being stranded or delayed in getting to and from school Drivers staged a two-day sickout, joined on the second day by similarly discontented cafeteria workers, forcing the cancellation of classes. In addition to fixing transportation, since becoming superintendent in August 2024, LaMont Cole has pursued an additional goal of shifting start times to better align

ä See CONSULT, page 3B

IN MEMORIAM

ABOVE: Tim NesSmith, ship superintendent education outreach officer, right, reads the names of the 38 men aboard the USS Kidd who died from the April 11, 1945, kamikaze attack during the battle of Okinawa as Gregory Williams, operations manager, left, rings a bell after each name during a ceremony for the 81st Anniversary Commemoration of Kamikaze Attack on USS Kidd on Saturday

LEFT: Parks Stephenson, executive director, speaks during the ceremony

Appeals court sides with Angola in class action

Ruling finds prisoner health care meets standards

BY QUINN COFFMAN Staff writer

A federal appeals court has found that prisoner health care at the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola met standards set by the Eighth Amendment, overturning a lower court’s 2023 order that would have required the prison to make certain improvements.

The Department of Corrections had already made many of the improvements sought by prisoners and their advocates during the nearly 11 years since the class action suit was brought against the state, Judge Edith Hollan Jones, of the U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals, stated in the majority opinion handed down on March 30. Jones criticized the lower court’s original ruling, which she said did not consider medical care improvements made at Angola before the court issuing its “remedial order” — or directions for the DOC

to follow to ensure necessary improvements were made.

“The overall result of the district court’s orders, or failure to consider ongoing changes, is a mishmash of mandates, some of which are already rendered obsolete by events,” Jones wrote.

She pointed to an electronic medical records management system as one example of improvements made after the district court trial and before the court issued its remedial order months later

A standard of “deliberate indifference” from a prison official is needed in order to constitute an Eighth Amendment violation. Jones argued in the majority that the indifference must be judged by prison officials’ current attitudes and conduct, not those from 2015.

“The Department of Corrections has always met constitutional standards for health care at Angola and has continually made improvements to both administrative systems and direct care,” Attorney General Liz Murrill said in reaction to the appeals court ruling. “The Fifth Circuit opinion recognizes and vindicates

our repeated efforts to ensure we meet and exceed constitutional standards, which the district court judge simply refused, improperly, to acknowledge. We are grateful that after 12 years we are finally getting the legal recognition that DOC deserved all along.”

The case, Parker v. Hooper originally was brought in 2015 by the Promise of Justice Initiative alongside Disability Rights of Louisiana after the organizations investigated claims of improper medical care at Angola for over a year

The organizations got a class certified of prisoners who had suffered negative health outcomes they blamed partially on contracted medical staff at Angola not taking their concerns seriously Attorneys for the prisoners argued that many weren’t allowed to see a specialist doctor until their conditions had already deteriorated to the point of being terminal illnesses including multiple cancer diagnoses that weren’t made until the cancer had already entered a late stage.

In one example, a 50-year-old inmate died from a large liver abscess that had been compress-

ing his spinal cord, according to district court records. Before his death, the inmate made seven unanswered requests for medical attention due to back pain He later became bedridden and incontinent and was found lying on the floor When a doctor did see him, the inmate died within hours.

The district court’s 2023 ruling found the DOC violated the Eighth Amendment as well as the Americans with Disabilities Act.

In total, 17 prisoners made up the original plaintiffs when the class was certified. Samantha Pourciau, senior staff attorney for the Promise of Justice Initiative, said that only three of those prisoners are still at Angola. The rest have either died or been moved to other facilities.

Kentrell Parker, the case’s namesake, still survives, Pourciau said. He was a quadriplegic prisoner at Angola who was granted medical parole to a nursing home after seeking it from the DOC for many years.

“Every day at Angola, our clients are exposed to extreme and pre-

STAFF PHOTOS By JAVIER GALLEGOS

Pope’s ancestralgrandmother buried in N.O.

BY BOBWARREN Staff writer

Archbishop James Checchio makes no secret of his desire to convince Pope Leo XIV,the first Americanto holdthe title, to visit New Orleans. And during arecent audience withthe pope in Rome, Checchio said he reminded him of agood reason to make avisit: Leo’s family roots in the Crescent City Checchio said the popeis “very aware and interested” in his family’shistoryin New Orleans. Checchio said the pope told him and the others during the visitthat he remembers his familyin Chicago, where Leo grewup, often talking about the family history in New Orleans. Included in that lineage is the pope’sfourth greatgrandmother,identified in Archdiocese of New Orleans records as Marie Catherine GuesnonRamos Morales,

BILLS

howbest —and when —to chase them.

“My goal is not to say, ‘Hey,weneedtocalloff a chase.’ My goal is for them to know when is the right time to pursue, and when is it the right time to call it off,” Kleinpetersaid.

Thebills

Aggravated flight from an officer —intentionally refusing to stopavehicle after aclear signal fromlaw enforcement, in amanner that endangers human life —currently carriesupto 15 years in prison, but does not have amandatory minimum sentence.

Senate Bill 58, authored by Kleinpeter,wouldinstitute amandatory minimum twoyear sentence for those convicted of aggravated flight who cause “serious bodily injury.” The bill is currently in the Louisiana House after the Senate voted to pass it in late March.

The goal, he says, is to stop someone who might otherwise be emboldened to stomp on the gas when sirens appear in the rearview mirror.

“There is zero respect for lawenforcementanymore for alot of people,” he said. “Hopefully the word willget out that if you run from the police. you are facing a mandatory minimumoftwo years in prison.”

Those convicted also face increased financial penalties should the legislation pass, up to $2,000 in fines,which, along with any insurance payouts,would fund officer training for high-speed pursuits or technology designed to minimize public risk for police chases.

Kleinpeter was also behind House Bill 801, which would establish aspecial “Classic Black” license plate —ajet black background with white numbers and lettering available through the Office of Motor Vehicles for a$25 annual fee. Because it raises

whoisburiedinSt. Louis Cathedral.

“She died in childbirth,” Checchio said during abrief telephone interview Friday “She andher infant areburied under thecathedral.”

Checchio said the pope wasn’taware of this until Checchio told him during the visit last month “He was quite interested in that.And moved,” Checchio said Morales, whowas born in 1756, was buried in the cathedral on Aug. 14, 1799, Archdiocese of New Orleans records show.She is among 100 or so people interred there,although archdiocese records ofall their names are incomplete.

Sarah McDonald, an archdiocese spokesperson, said that in the early years, it was not uncommon for parishioners to be buriedat thecathedral. In later years, cathedral burials were reserved for bishops andarch-

bishops, she said. The bishops and archbishops are buried in acrypt beneath thechurchsanctuary, McDonald said.

The current St.Louis Cathedral, which dates to 1851, is the latest in aseries of structures on the same site that go back to around 1722. Thecathedral is set to undergo amultiyear,$45 million restorationbeginning this summer Checchio, who became the New Orleans archbishop in February,was among a small contingent from New Orleans who had an audience with thepopeinRome last month. Also in the group wasArchbishop-emeritus GregoryAymond, Saints and Pelicans owner Gayle Benson,Saints and Pelicans executive Greg Bensel, and Gayle Benson’s brother Wayne LaJaunie.

Checchio saidheand the group pitched aNew Orleans visit during their time

with Leo.

“Wesure did invite him, Checchio said.

“He didn’tsay ‘Let me look at airfare,’”the archbishop said with alaugh,but then quickly added, “He desires to come —Iknow that.”

Any visit would certainly not be this year.The Vatican announcedinFebruarythat the pope would not visit the United States in 2026.

LeoXIV,formerlyRobert FrancisPrevost, acardinal whowas born and raisedin Chicago, was elected pope in May 2025, becoming thefirst American chosen to lead the Roman Catholic Church and its 1.4 billion members.

As soon as his name surfaced, genealogistsbegan poring over familyrecords to trace his lineage. His New Orleans rootsquickly came to thefore.

“Our Holy Father,Pope LeoXIV,has Creole of color roots from New Orleans on his mother’sside,”Jari

revenue, it was introduced in theHouse by Plaquemine DemocratChasity Martinez —her first bill since her electiontoDistrict60. The proceeds would fund pursuittraining at the State Police facilityinZachary, where many local departments and sheriff’s offices can’tafford to send officers, said Kleinpeter. Kleinpeter compared the needfor pursuit training to firearms qualification.

“Every year they have to go shoot their pistol to make sure they’requalified, and very rarelydotheypull their pistol,” he said. “But every day they get in that vehicle, and every day they pursue somebody,and there is no training behind it.”

Nationwide, 5,425police pursuits resulted in fatal crashes between 2009 and 2023, with a2%increase each year,according to a studypublishedinthe Journalofthe AmericanMedical

Association.

From 2013 to 2023,Baton Rouge police initiated over 1,200 pursuits —about 1every 3days —the majority of which began with traffic stops, an Advocate investigation revealed. In thelatter half of that same time period, 10% of those pursuitsresulted in acrash. The year Gill and Dunn were killed, chases initiated by BRPD resulted in twootherfatal crashes

Kleinpeter predictsthat highdemandfor thelicense plates will help improve thosestats.Several other stateshave recently adopted themtoraiserevenue, while manydriversinothersbuy them illegally.The bill has passed the House 93 to1and is now in theSenate.

“I think you’re gonna see alot of black licenseplates,” he said. “Hopefullyit’sgonna help on high-speed pursuits, and hopefully we can prevent any other innocent lives from being taken.”

Honora, agenealogist at the Historic NewOrleansCollection, posted on Facebook shortly afterthe announcementofthe new pope. Among Leo’sNew Orleans connections weregrandparents Joseph and Louise Martinez, who livedinthe 7thWard. Josephand Louise Martinez moved from New Orleans to Chicago sometime between 1910 and 1912. Leo’smother,Mildred, was born in Chicago.

Some of thepope’sNew Orleans ancestors have deep connections to St. Louis Cathedral.

Eugenie Grambois, Louise Martinez’smother andthe pope’sgreat-grandmother, was baptizedthere in 1840. And the pope’sfourth greatgrandfather,Pedro Dionisio Panquinette, who wasborn in Biloxi, Mississippi, in 1729, lived in New Orleans andwas sextant for the church parish of St. Louis Cathedral.

in 2024, installing the technology in nine patrol units. SimilartoAmber Alerts, it sends aloudnotification to anyone with the Digital Siren app within a1.5-mile radius, urging them to slow downand stay alert.

Last February,the Iberville Parish Sheriff’sOffice followed suit,equipping all 40 of its units.Their system automatically activates when an officer’s lightsgo on, even during routine traffic stops.

“Itkeeps my deputies safe, too,” said SheriffBrett Stassi. “If my deputy stops acar and we’re sitting on the side of the road with our lights on, it’s gonna notify you.”

His deputiescan also use Digital Siren to push specific messages to people nearby, such as details about amissing person.

“Wedon’t have to wait for an Amber Alert,” Stassi said.

“The manonthe scenecan send it out.”

From grieftoaction

In the aftermathofhis daughter’sdeath, Jason Gill set out to makesureother parents wouldn’tface the sameloss.

“I wanted to leave alegacy formydaughter,” he said. “The moreI thought about it,the more Ithought somethingcould change.”

He foundedthe Caroline Grace Gill Foundation, and around the same time,met TimMorgan, aformer chief deputy in South Carolina whoseown experience witnessing abystanderkilled during apolicechase inspiredhim to start Pursuit Alert. The company developed acloud-basedalert system called DigitalSiren, which notifiesnearby driverswhen police are engaged in apursuit

Now usedbyover 30 departments in the country, Bruslybecame thefirst Louisiana town to adoptit

West Baton Rouge Parish came on board in March, installing the system in 21 units. SheriffJeff Bergeron said alerts are triggered automatically when avehicle exceeds70mph with lights and sirens on, or sustains 50 mphwith lights and sirens formore than 45 seconds.

The next step is getting more residentstodownload the app to actually receive the signals, Stassi said, though DigitalSiren is also integrated into Waze navigation, as wellassoftware in newer Chrysler,Jeep and Dodge models.

Gill’sfoundation has helpedfund installations across thethree departments andispushing for broader adoption statewide.

He’s also hoping to help smallermunicipalitiesfund high-speed pursuittraining fortheir officers.

“If any law enforcement agencies need help with tools,technology or training, I’d love to help,” he said. “I want to contribute in any way Ican to make ourlaw enforcement better at what they do.”

ventable healthconsequences due to the state’s persistent neglect and indifference,” Pourciau said. “As the dissentrecognized,this decision undermines the horrifying record of ‘preventable deaths and significantly more unfathomable pain andsuffering.’For example,a28-year-oldman in solitaryconfinement called forhelp but was notgiventreatmentuntil eight hourslater whenhe was found dying on the floor —factsthe state itselfnever disputed. We will continue fighting to preventfurtheratrocities forpeople whodeserve their humanity to be acknowledged. Anotherfuturetrial?

Thedistrict court split its originalruling into two parts, with a separate trial for each. First, the judgesfound the DOC was liable and improvements were needed. Then they ruled on what those improvementswould need to be and how they would be made, producing the “remedialorder” for Angola to follow TheFifth Circuit’sruling only took issue with theremedial orderand how it was carried out, with much of the majority opinionfocusing on how the order didn’tfollowguidelines setinthe 1996 Prison Litigation Reform Act.

Onecomplaint involved the fact the lower court had ordered Angola to allow three experts being paid by the state —totourthe facility and request records to ensure improvements were made.The Prison Litigation Reform Actrequires only oneexpert, who cannot be paid by the state.

“Anycourt-appointed master will be striking at straw men, needlessly interfering with prison authorities’ duties and running up bills for no constitutionalremedial purpose,” Jones said in hermajority opinion.

The lower court’sruling on Angola’sliability wasn’t overturnedbythe Fifth Circuit, however, leaving the door open for the class actiontoreturn to the districtcourt and forprisonadvocates to argue that changes at Angola have not fully remedied the issues at hand.

STAFF FILE PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON Jason Gill, founderand presidentofthe CarolineGrace Gill Foundation, holds acard that wasmailed to all Brusly residents introducing the Pursuit Alertsystem and the appthat wasadopted by theBrusly Police Departmentwhile in front of the first cruiser to feature the system on Dec.19, 2024.

Lafayette police agencies gain funds for camera systems

Monitoring will strengthen anti-drug efforts

BY STEPHEN MARCANTEL Staff writer

Lafayette Consolidated Government is providing $350,000 in opioid settlement funding to enable law enforcement agencies in the parish to strengthen their efforts against drug trafficking and overdoses.

Each department would receive $50,000, Mayor-President Monique Boulet said during a Thursday meeting in Duson.

Agencies in Scott, Youngsville, Broussard and the Lafayette city marshal will be using the funds to purchase mobile camera units to monitor locations such as parks and other areas that see drug activity Carencro will expand its current camera system, while the Duson Police Department plans to install automatic license plate

Hondo Rodeo

Fest ropes in large crowd

BY DOUG MacCASH Staff writer

The dress code was widebrimmed hats and narrowtoed boots at the Caesars Superdome on Friday the opening day of the Hondo Rodeo Festival that combined championship roping and riding with rockin’ concerts. The vibe was festive, exciting and patriotic, with a touch of piety

The Hondo Rodeo Fest was an all-day affair A food, craft and fashion fair with live music took place in Champions Square. In the center of it all was a mini rodeo arena where children were periodically allowed to ride sheep. At 4 p.m. the ever enlarging crowd was allowed to enter the Dome, where the party would proceed until almost midnight. After the singing of the national anthem, opening prayer and the ignition of a flaming Hondo Rodeo logo on the Dome’s dirt-covered floor the first action of the day was a contest among select riders from the Angola Prison Rodeo, held in the forbidding penitentiary in West Feliciana Parish. The visiting inmates, clad in padded vests and crash helmets,

CONSULT

Continued from page 1B

with when children learn, based on research on their sleep patterns. In particular, that research suggests that teenagers should start school later and younger children should start earlier In advance of the 2025-26 school year, Cole radically reworked start times at Capital and Glen Oaks high schools and at four feeder schools, and reconfigured grades and attendance zones for several of those schools. He called it Phase 1. In March, the board agreed to let Cole change start times across the school system over the next three years. Cole plans to return to the board in May for approval for Phase 2 in which he would change start times at six more schools Belaire High and five feeder schools — as well as making changes to grade configurations and attendance zones at four of the schools.

Some faculty and parents, however, have raised concerns that the new start times so far are falling short of their promises and have unintended downsides.

Cole has scheduled two community meetings this month in the Belaire area to explain his proposals and gather feedback:

n Monday, 5:30 p.m at Villa del Rey Elementary, 9765 Cuyhanga Parkway

n April 20 at 5:30 p.m. at Park Forest Middle, 3760 Aletha Drive.

Thursday. Each agency was allocated $50,000.

reader cameras with video function at key locations.

The Lafayette Police Department will use its share to expand its naloxone (Narcan) supply and purchase a mobile X-ray device

to scan vehicles for hidden compartments and check the inside of packages, aiding in the search for drugs.

Lafayette Parish has received roughly $6 million in opioid settle-

ment funding over the past three years, Boulet said. The idea to fund local police department efforts came from Duson Police Chief Kip Judice, who approached her about his town’s issues with drug overdoses and deaths.

Duson has a population of under 2,000 but represented 25% of the parish’s overdose-related deaths between January 2024 and July 2025, Boulet said. The parish had around 130 drug-related deaths over the period.

Of those deaths, six are connected to two homes in the town, Judice said.

“I recognized a need and a desire to get some of this funding,” Judice said. “These cameras allow us to preprogram known drug-dealer license plates into these cameras.

When they enter a certain zone, our officers will be alerted by way of text message. So we will know that a threat is occurring.“

Opioid-related overdoses killed two people in Louisiana every day in 2024. That number peaked at four daily deaths in the state in the

two years following the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The fentanyl crisis was really at its height a few years ago,” Boulet said Thursday. “We all felt helpless, but those numbers have dropped significantly at a statewide level and as well in Lafayette Parish.”

The state saw a 31% decrease in drug-related overdose deaths from 2023 to 2024 Opioid-related deaths were down 32%. Rural parishes remain at the highest risk especially those in northern Louisiana.

Earlier in the year, the Lafayette Parish Council voted to provide $1.4 million in opioid settlement money to fund efforts at local police departments, renovate the dilapidated War Memorial Building in Lafayette, and public education and outreach programs. The War Memorial Building is expected to receive $855,365 for renovations. The building houses the Veterans Affairs Office, the Juvenile Specialty Drug Court and the Louisiana Multi-Agency Resources Center

took turns attempting to stay put on wildly bucking broncos, though gravity always prevailed in the end. Their part of the show concluded with something called “convict pinball,” in which the inmates tested their nerve by standing inside of hula-hoops placed on the dirt as a fighting bull charged toward them Sometimes the bull flipped the incarcerated cowboys off their feet and into the air or trampled them under its hooves. The Hondo Rodeo proper is an all-star event, with $1 million in prize money awarded over the course of the weekend. The very first pro rider in the whole shebang was Kade Sonnier, of Carencro, whose specialty is bareback riding On Friday, Sonnier was spat suddenly from a ringside pen, clinging to a horse with extreme anger management issues, without benefit of a saddle For the next 8.43 seconds, Sonnier was thrashed around like a rag doll in a clothes dryer until the horse’s temper cooled. Rodeo riders are considered athletes, and rightfully so. In a pre-rodeo interview, Sonnier said he works out five days per week to stay “generally strong.” Asked what it’s like to be thrown from a horse, Sonnier laughingly said, “I don’t know I try not to do it very often.” Sonnier said he believes he’s got the best job in the world, “making a

The meetings are expected to last an hour each.

Signs of success

The three-year timeline for shifting start times is due to concerns about how quickly student transportation can handle such a change. Reform efforts have been slowed by an ongoing shortage of drivers; the district started the year about 50 drivers short. The new start times work only if there are enough drivers to operate direct bus routes without transfers.

To attract more drivers, Cole plans to propose districtwide employee pay raises in May, which will include drivers.

The district, however, has also been working to reduce the number of routes, particularly those where students have to transfer from one bus to another

To spearhead these changes, Cole has repeatedly turned to Prismatic for help. In recent reports, Prismatic claims early success:

n Reducing the number of active buses to 378, or 21 fewer, and the number of routes each day from 797 to 752, or 45 fewer It estimates the savings at almost $1.4 million in operating costs.

n At the six Phase 1 schools, the number of daily bus runs shrank from 60 to 45. These are all direct buses; none “are routed through transfer.”

n The percentage of buses arriving on time at the six Phase 1 schools was notably higher than at the six schools proposed for Phase 2 Ontime percentages for the

really good living and living a little boy’s dream.”

In the bareback riding event, the horses — known as equine athletes — dole out the punishment on the humans. But in the calf roping contest, the humans get their revenge by chasing down and tackling young cows on the Dome floor like Demario Davis tackles scrambling quarterbacks — apologies to Saints fans for the reminder.

On Friday, Shane Hanchey, of Sulphur, tied Texan Riley Webb for first place in the calf roping contest with an astonishing time of 7.34 seconds. In an interview earlier in the day, Hanchey said he

morning routes were much better at both sets of schools compared with afternoon routes. Morning percentages improved at both sets of schools over the course of the first semester of the current school year while afternoon percentages declined notably, particularly at Capitol and Glen Oaks high schools.

“I and the rest of the Prismatic team are thrilled at the possibility of continuing to work with the district in Phase 2, moving additional schools to healthy start times,” wrote Tatia Prieto, Prismatic’s president, in a March 26 report.

Better terms

In the latest contract proposal, most Prismatic staff would charge East Baton Rouge Parish $15 less per hour than previously

“We typically increase our hourly rates each year to account for inflation,” Prieto wrote. “To demonstrate our continuing commitment to the success of East Baton Rouge Schools, we are offering a discount on our Phase 2 hourly rates.”

The company also says it will reduce what it charges the school system for travel and other “direct expenses.” It plans to finish the bulk of the work by late September and then shift to “collection and analysis of student output and outcome data” for the remaining four months of the contract.

Email Charles Lussier at clussier@theadvocate. com.

has his own private rodeo arena where he practices roping daily. “Everything is repetition,” he said. “The more you do it, the better you become at it.”

During the opening day rodeo, many an athlete performed on home turf. In the ladies breakaway roping contest, Louisianan Josie Conner placed first and Louisianan Cheyanne McCartney placed second. And in the bull riding

category, three of the eight bovine-battered contestants came from the Bayou State.

Audience member Josh Gardner said that bull riding is everybody’s favorite event, because “it’s the most exciting.” He and his wife had driven from Pass Christian, Mississippi, for the Hondo Rodeo Festival.

He said he thought it was cool that the riders would compete on three consecutive nights, thereby increasing their chances of taking home some of the substantial prize money Gardner pointed out that $12,000 was the firstplace payout in each event and “that’s not a bad night for eight seconds of your time.”

The Hondo “would definitely be a rodeo that a lot of riders would want to get into,” he said.

Horseplay aside, Gardner said his wife, Shanelle Gardner, “has been wanting to see singer Jason Aldean for 12 years,” and Friday would be her chance. Starting at 10 p.m., Aldean’s concert would close out the Hondo Rodeo Fest’s first day

To accommodate both the fenced-in rodeo area and large-scale concert stage, seating in the Dome was

roughly cut in half, with capacity attendance for the event set at 28,000. At the start of the show, the lower tier seats, nearest the rodeo action, were mostly occupied. But the crowd in the upper decks was sparser When the rodeo ended and the music began, higherpriced ticket holders were allowed to flow into the area in front of the stage. Before Aldean, the seemingly eternal, storied, Southern guitar band Lynyrd Skynyrd took the stage. The shaggy old boys, who’d just returned from a gig in Brazil, could certainly still weave together their brand of driving rock. Their rendering of “Sweet Home Alabama” became a Dome-wide singalong, and the encore “Freebird” was a dive into a sea of 1970s gestalt. Aldean followed with his spare sound and unshowy showmanship. He noted that after all of his years performing, Friday was his first show in the Superdome. Though he sings about tractors, dirt roads and small towns, Aldean rocked as hard as Nine Inch Nails. Shanelle Gardner gave the thumbs up to his show

STAFF PHOTO By STEPHEN MARCANTEL

Mayor-President Monique Boulet gives a speech regarding opioid funding in front of Lafayette Parish’s city police chiefs on

STAFF PHOTO By STEPHEN LEW

A rider holds onto a bucking horse during the Hondo Rodeo Fest 2026 at the Caesars Superdome on Friday.

Bagot, James 'Jim'

Jim was born in Baton Rouge on January 22, 1947 and died in Bristol TN on March 19, 2026 of esophageal cancer. Jim lived most of his life in Baton Rouge and worked many jobs, including being an attorney for the Louisiana Public Service Commission. After retiring, he bought a125 acre wheat farm in Idaho,an enjoyed farming for 10 years.The last 5years of his life were spent livingin Bluff City TN, where he enjoyed working on his numerous hot rods and cars. Jim was alife long animal lover, leaving behind his2 dogs and 5cats. Jim was aman of strong convictions and lived life on his on terms. He is survived by his wife, Wendy, the mother of his children, Mary Margaret Rhodes, his sons, Rhodes, Courtney and his wife Emily, and Marshall. His grandchildren, Jesse Ashley, Kearston, Kaydence, Maggie, Morgan, Elliott, Bella and Josh. His sister, Gloria Byl and special friend PamCriddle. He is preceded in death by his parents Gloria and James and his niece Alison Byl.

Ahomemaker,Genealogy Historian and resident of St. Amant, LA., she passed at 10:12pm on April 9, 2026, at The Crossing at Clarity Hospice, Baton Rouge, LA.

Sheissurvived by her husband, John Wilson Ballard Sr.; daughter,Tara Brown (Ory); son's,Jarrett Ballard and John Ballard Jr (Tandi); Grandchildren, Braxton, Bayleigh, Kalli, Trevor, Hunter, Brian, Kyrsty, Hayes, Brayden, Kyle. She was precededin death by her father, Joseph Paul Lambert"T-Joe"; mother,Mavis McKinney Lambert; brother's, Craig Nolan Lambert and Brent Anthony Lambert;Paternal grandparents, VernonPaul "Butch" and Eula Mae Frederic Lambert, Hardy Dupreand JennieLucille Jenkins McKinney; stepdaughter, GinniferBallard; stepson, Shawn Ballard; and niece, ToriLambert. Visitationwillbeheldon Monday, April 13, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Ourso Funeral, Gonzales, LA. Visitation will resume on Tuesday, April14, 2026, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, St.Amant, LA at 9:00 AM until Mass of a Christian Burialat11:00 AM. Burial to follow at Holy RosaryMausoleum. Pallbearers: John Ballard Jr,Ory Brown, Corey Lambert, Eric Charpentier, Quade Aymond, Josh Broussard. HonoraryPallbearers JarrettBallard and Braxton Brown.

Bass, Haywood Haywood Glenn Bass, of Baton Rouge,LA, aged 96, passed peacefully in his home to be with the Lord Jesus ChristonMarch19, 2026.Haywoodwas bornin Winnfield, Louisiana,to Burneyand Serena Bass on December6,1929 He was precededin

death by his parents, brother; Stan Bass, sister; Lesker Bass Bates and his former wife and mother of his children; Fran BassCopes. The surviving loved onesincludehis son and daughter in law; Billy (Bill) and RachelBass and daughter; ElizabethBass Cunningham, and hissignificant other of 39 years; Barbara Beckmann. He also leavesfour grandchildren;Joshua Bass, Charity Bass Earlyand husband, Connor Early, Nathaniel Bass, and Grace Bass, and his greatgrandson; Peter Early. One of Haywood's proudestaccomplishmentswas buildingand operating hisown business, Bass Electronics Inc from1963 until 2012.

Serviceswillbeheldat BroadmoorPresbyterian Church, 9340 Florida Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA April13, 10:00-11:00 AM Visitation,followedbythe funeral service at 11:00. Internment immediately following at Greenoaks Memorial Park

Berthelot,DianneNoble Dianne NobleBerthelot, 83, passedaway in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. To view and sign theonline guestbook, please visit www.gre enoaksfunerals.com

Warren Holtz Boren May 20, 1928 -April 5, 2026. Warren HoltzBoren,a devoted husband, father, and proud U.S. Navy veteran, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2026, at the ageof97. Born on May 20, 1928, in SanAntonio, Texas,Warren liveda long and accomplished life marked by service, leadership, and dedication to his family Warren served his countryhonorably in theUnited

States Navy before em-

barking on adistinguished career in themaritimeand industrial sectors. He held several prominent leadershiproles at Reynolds Metal Companyand was ExecutiveVice President of Hall Buck Marine.Hewas widely respected for his expertise, integrity,and steady leadership He was amember of IstroumaBaptist Church, Baton Rouge Country Club, theAmerican Legion, and Disabled American Veterans. Warren was alongtime volunteer of Attic Trash and Treasure, enjoyed gardening, and playing golf and tennis He was preceded in death by his parents, James M. Boren Sr.and ElizabethBoren,and his brother, James M. Boren Jr. Warren is survived by his belovedwife,Nancy McCambridge Boren;his children, James LeslieBoren and hiswife,Diane Boren; Randal KeithBoren; and TerriBoren Crosswhiteand her husband, Mike. He is also survivedbyhis stepdaughters, Jeanne Fenasci Bridgers and her husband, James, and Yvonne Fenasci Bienvenuand her husband, Michael, along with many grandchildrenand great-

grandchildren, whom he adored. Warrenwill be rememberedfor hisstrength of character, his kindness, andhis deep love forhis faith, familyand friends

Hislegacyofservice and devotion will live on in all whoknewhim. Visitation serviceswill be held on April 18, 2026, at 12:00 p.m.,followed by a Celebration of Life at 2:00 p.m. Allservicesare held at Istrouma Baptist Church.Inlieuofflowers, donationscan be made to Geaux and DeauxMinistriesofGreenwell Springs, LA.

built lifelongfriendships that became like family. He enjoyed fishing, sports, working out, andspending time with lovedones. He wasknown for hishumor andlivelyspirit He is survived by his children, Ashleyand Amy Collins; hisgrandson, Jackson Murphy; his siblings, Billy Collins, TriciaDavis, andPaula Collins; his beloveddog, Morty; and manyloving friends. Visitation will be held at 10:30 a.m., followed by a service at 12:30 p.m. on Monday, April 13, 2026, at RabenhorstFuneral

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Flowers,Diane Gaudin

Diane Gaudin Flowers, 79 years young, passed

Boren,Warren Holtz

in Baton Rouge on April7 2026.

Diane was alongtime resident of Denham Springs before moving back to Baton Rouge last month. After graduating from Lutcher High School, she earned both her Bachelor's degree and aMaster's of Education from Southeastern Louisiana University. Upon graduation, she married the love of her life, John "Jack" Flowers, to whom she remained devoted for 57 years. Diane was apassionate educator for over 41 years. She began her career at Dufrocq Elementary before moving to Walker Elementary and Walker Upper, where she specialized in elementary math.She later served as Assistant Principal at South Walker Elementary for several years.

Diane truly loved her students; she was famous for surprising them with costumes each year and cherished the many keepsakes they gave her. As ateacher and mentor to so many, she remains awell-known and respected role model in the Walker community.

Diane was truly the life of the party. With an active network of friends and family, she embraced every moment of life. As one of the original members of The Pink Ladies Krewe for the Spanish Town Parade, she looked forward to riding every year. She was also an avid Mahjong player for over 15 years, and ever the teacher, she loved coaching new players and spreading her love for the game. She cherished her frequent trips with her beloved friends—Alice Bilski, Liz Wooster, and Margo Campbell—and her "Lunch Ladies" and card group, which included Ann Kissner, Tina Mee, Casan Fontenot, Jennifer Walker, Marsha Sills, and Jan MacNaughton. Always the first to help plan aparty, Diane took great joy in baking her renowned cakes and desserts, ahobby she perfected in her retirement She is survived by her sister, Margaret Caplinger and brother, Wayne Gaudin (Kathy), her nieces, Hannah Caplinger Evans (Jeff) and Nicole Gaudin Villemarette (Jason); her great-nieces and nephews, Jude and Brynleigh Evans, and Blaise and Gabriella Villemarette. Larry Graham and Raymond Slinker were exceptional friends to Diane and Jack, whom were aconstant beacon of support and beloved members of the family.She was preceded in death by her husband, John "Jack" Flowers; her father, Esnault Gaudin; and her mother, Inez Gaudin Lowry. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. ACelebration of Life Memorial will be held at the end of April to commemorate her fun-loving nature.

Hebert, Josie Cascio

Josie Cascio Hebert passed awayather home in Baton Rouge on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at the age of 82. Visitation will be on Monday, April 13, 2026, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 11441 Goodwood Blvd, from 8am until Funeral Mass at 9am Burial will follow at Magnolia Cemetery. To view the full obituary and online guestbook, please visit www.rabenhorsteast.com. Howard, Jo Willie Watson

Jo Willie Watson Howard. Together again with her husband, Don, of 57 years, Jo died at her home Thursday morning, April 2, 2026, at the age of 94. She had requested no service, and that request will be honored. But these are some of the words that would have been spoken at her service. Jo was born in Centreville, MS,and spent her childhood in Wilson, LA. She was the only child of Josephine and James Watson. She often remarked about her childhood, that it wasn't alavish one, but was ahappy one. Her mother worked hard in the home and in the garden. Her dad worked for the railroad and according to her she was the apple of his eye. She would go on to graduate from high school in nearby Clinton, LA as the valedictorian of her small senior class. But not before meeting the

meeting They married and she would follow himtoAlbuquerque, NM, where he servedinthe U.S.Air Force. They returnedtoLouisiana as afamily of four,when surprisingly they were blessed with twin girls, Deidre and Donna After attending trade school, Jo began her employment at Gulf States UtilitiesCompany. She would soon be hired by CopolymerRubber and Chemical Corporation on Scenic HighwayinNorth Baton Rouge.She and Don found ahome only blocks away. The Copolymer employeeswould become like family to her. She enjoyed bringing the twins to the company picnics, and participating in the Copolymer bowling league at Plank Bowl, while the twins played in the outside play area. And for the entirety of those 32 years, Jo'sday to provide the pastry for her office family wasMonday, otherwise known to those around herascrumpet day. She formed many life-long friendships. Jo had an impeccable work ethic. Through many years of loyal service, she worked her way up to become the secretary to the Vice President. Jo was astrong Christian. She would be faithful to four churchesinher lifetime,Wilson Community Church, Trinity Baptist Church, Winbourne Avenue Baptist Church and forthe last 45 years, First Baptist Church in StFrancisville. For most, if not all, of those years, she taught the Ladies Sunday School Class, lovingly referredto as Jo's Girls. She was a studier. It wasn't uncommon to see four or five commentaries spread out across the kitchen table. She often beganpreparation for the next Sundayby Monday evening. Many who have reachedout after Jo's death, are affectionately remembering her as the longest-serving Sunday School teacheratthe church. As soon as she retired, she was able to volunteer for the summer weekofVacation Bible School. She worked with the "KitchenCrew" serving Kool-Aid and cookies. Jo loved seeing the children. Shealso knew thather twin daughters, as Directors, had signed her up for duty! Jo was not only faithful with her time; she was faithful in giving. She knew what portion was "the Lord's Money." As we close,allow us to mention avery fitting hymn, one that best describes our mom for us, "My Jesus, ILove Thee She is survivedbyher twin daughters, Deidre Howard and Donna Kennon, son-in-law, Dr. Charlie Kennon, sister-in-lawConnie Howard; niece, Diane Noland and husband Jimmy, Jill Allor and husband Russ, and Leah Howard; nephews, Howard Fluker and wife Cindy, David Fluker, JeffreyHoward and wife Laurie, Chad Howard and wife Monica; sweet neighbor,Ginger Harvey; family friend Ronny Bingham; valuable helper, Andrew Julian. Preceded in death by her parents, Josephine and James Watson; the love of herlife, Don; brother-in-lawAlbert Howard; sisters-in-law Voncile Fluker andAlma Fluker; brother-inlaw Richard Fluker; niece Angela Fluker. And always in Jo's home was abeloved pet, for the last decade, that was Daisy, alsoknown as "Mama'sbaby girl." Sadly, Daisy passedaway 3 months beforeJo. Gifts in memory of Jo may be made to First Baptist Church, PO Box 1339, St Francisville, LA 70775. Share sympathiesat www.CharletFuneralHome. com.

James 'Jim'

ology. moving ton Rouge, he began a20year career at BASF, while pursuing adegree in Chemical Engineering.He spent the next 18 years working for Shell Chemical. After retirement,Jim started asmall engine repair business which gave him the opportunity to meet peopleand keep their lawn equipment in working condition. He also joined a60+ golf league, where he developed lasting friendships and looked forward to playing every week. An active member of St.Paul Lutheran Church, Jim served in various roles on theChurch Council, was chairman of the Early Learning Center, and coordinator of the mowing teams. Jim served on the Seven Oaks HOA Architectural Control Committee and acted as Secretary of the Shell Geismar Retiree Club. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Charlotte Deshotels Keller; stepson, James (Jay) Pennington; sister, Kathleen KellerMielke (Dan); brother, David Keller; nieces, nephews, and fur babies (Lucy &Cali). Jim was adevoted son, brother, husband,stepdad, uncle and friend, and will be greatly missed. Most importantly, he was aservant of Christ. The family would like to express their gratitudeto the staff of The Hospice of Baton Rouge's Butterfly Wing. In lieuofflowers, donations can be made to St Paul Lutheran Church or TunneltoTowers Foundation. Amemorial service will be held at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 2021 Tara Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA on Saturday, April 25th, from9 am until aService of Remembrance at 11:00. Reception to follow in the Fellowship Hall.

Baton Rouge native Wallace George Nesbit III passed away in Mobile, Alabama on Sunday March 22 at the age of 72. Wally is proceeded in deathby his parents, Wallace George Nesbit,Jr. and Nancy Gray Pendergast, sister Amy Nesbit Brassett, and brother Scott Peterson Nesbit

He is survived by sons Dwayne Heathman (Dawn), Karie Dove (Steve), Nicholas Clesi Nesbit and Wallace George Nesbit IV (Melissa) and sister Cynthia Nesbit Joseph (Allen). He is also survived by his loving companion Regina Ivy.

Wally was born in New Orleans on September 3,1953 and spent his youth and much of adulthood in Baton Rouge. He graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in 1971 where he served as class president. He joined theU.S. Army in 1972 and served during the Vietnam War, stationed in Germany.

Upon return, he graduated from LSU witha B.S. in Business Administration. Wally spent his career in industrial sales in Baton Rouge, New Orleans and Mobile, Alabama.

Wally was also an avid tennis player and fierce competitor at the Piedmont Club,Aurora Country Club and Franco's Athletic Club.Hewas very involved in the USTA and the Nesbit family was named Tennis Family of theYear in the 90s. If you knew Wally, you knew he was aconsummate salesman. He honed his skills in industrial sales and made many friends along the way. Wally had awinning smile and charming personality. He will be missed by family and friends.

Family members plana private burial at alater date. If you would like to remember Wally, the family asks that you make a donation to the American Cancer Society.

Kathy by beloved husband of 55 years, Ray Neyland, with whom she shared alifetime of cherished memories, love, and companionship. She is also survived by her children: Dana N. Johnson (Charlie), Mark Neyland (Carolyn), Terry N. Rouprich, and stepdaughter Tammi N. Vicknair. Affectionately known as "NaNaw," Kathy was a proud and loving grandmother to eight grandchildren: Leah N. Deville; Ashley N. Raymond (GJ); Christopher Sellars (Brittney); Lance Neyland (Raven); Bradley Neyland (Hanna); Kathleen Huff (Nathan); Courtney Kittrell (Jordan); and Grant Vicknair. Her love extended even further to her 16 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren. She is survived by her siblings, Kevin Kern and Larry Kern and her dear friend Michelle O'Brien. Kathy was preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Lawrence J.Kern and Jeanne Thibodaux Kern.

Kathy will be remembered for her generous heart and her warmth. She had aspecial gift for making others feel welcome, often expressing her love through cooking. Her home was agathering place where family and friends were always invited,and no one ever left hungry.

An avid reader, Kathy also dedicated her time to volunteering in alocal elementary school reading program, sharing her love of books with young students.

She had alifelong love of horses and enjoyed horseback riding throughout her entire life.

Kathy's life was defined by her compassion, generosity, and lovefor her family. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The family extends heartfelt gratitudeto Bridgeway Hospice and its caring staff for their compassion and support.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donation may be offered to Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS) by calling (225) 2264700 or visiting www.vipsbr.org.

Charles Leonard Patin, Jr., passed away on Thursday, April 2, with his beloved wife Carla by his side. Charles was born in Baton Rouge on April 7, 1949, the first child of Florence Jean Dyer Patin and Charles L. Patin,Sr. Charles was aproud graduate of Southern University Laboratory School. He received his B.S. degree from LSU and, three years later, he attained his law degree from LSU Law School. He began his career with the Attorney General's Office of Consumer Protection,under Attorney General William Guste, working with awonderful group of attorneys and staff, many of whom he kept in lifelong contact. Despite long hours of work, he always relished a legal challenge. He eventually reached the position of Chief of the Civil Division, working closely with the LouisianaLegislature and the administrations of Governors Edwin Edwards and Buddy Roemer. Charles later joined Kean Miller Attorneys at Law, eventually becominga partner. He worked with school boards throughout the State of Louisiana, helping to settle longstanding desegregation cases, meetingnew people and making newfriends on both sides of the legal disputes. After his retirement from Kean Miller, he worked with Brian Blackwell, continuing to handle desegregation cases. It was an interestingand enjoyable time for him to slow down and begin to ease into retirement.

Charles was, most of all, afamily man. He married his friendand love of his life, Carla Kennedy, in 1971. Two wonderfulchildren followed, Nolan Charles and Jennifer Lynise. Charles and Carla loved to travel with the children,visiting festivals, museums, and natural wonders. In recentyears, he and Carla enjoyed many trips Washington,

joyed many trips to Washington, D.C., to spendtime with their grandchildren.Charles was very passionate about cooking. He watched cooking shows and put his own spin on recipes. He was well known for his seafood dishes and gumbo. He loved cooking with his son Nolan and son-inlaw Ahmed; it was a friendly rivalry. One person he didn't mind sharing his secrets with was his granddaughter, Layla; they worked seamlessly in the kitchen. His wonderful meals will be deeply missed by family and friends.

Charles was blessed with three beautiful grandchildren,Layla Ramadan, Amani Ramadan,and Alcide Patin. He loved children and young people, and enjoyed teaching them to cook, giving out recipes, riling them up, and, overall, being around them. He was preceded in death by his father, Charles L. Patin, Sr., his father-in-law Audrey N. Kennedy, and his sister-inlaw and herhusbandDonna andLouis Hightower. He is survived by his devoted wife, Carla, his son Nolan (Rahel), his daughter Jennifer (Ahmed) andhis three grandchildren.Heis also survived by his loving mother, Jean Dyer Patin, his mother-in-law Gloria Ricard Kennedy, sister Melody Patin Spears (Robert), brother Joseph Leak Patin (Lisa), sisters-in -law Lynise Williams (Winfred), Maria Jones (Michael), andbrothers-inlaw Eric Kennedy (Lora), Gerard Kennedy (Melba) and many nieces and nephews. Visitation will be at Hall Davis Celebration Center, 9348 Scenic Hwy., Monday, April 13, 10:30-11:30, with services beginning at 11:30. In lieu of flowers, please make adonation to St. Jude Children's Hospital.

patients whofeel overwhelmed by dental visits

Formanypeople, thethoughtof sitting in adentalchairbrings fear,panic, or memories of past bad experiences.

Imagine being “out” foryour dentalvisit -NoFear,NoPain.

If thethoughtofsitting in a dentist’s chairmakes younervous, you’re notalone.Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, abad gag reflex, or just need extensive dental work,wecan help!

Patin, Charles Leonard

Nesbit, Wallace George 'Wally'

'Kathy'

orphaned wellslikethe urgent threat they are

The scourge of orphaned wells in Louisiana has long been asimmering issue in thisstate where oil and gas are our lifeblood. But new numbers from the Department of Conservation and Energy should movethe problem tothe front burner

The state now counts nearly 6,500 orphaned wells, the department says. Even more worryingishow fast the number has grown over the past few years. Between 2014 and 2023, the state added about 447 orphaned wells per year to the list. But so far in 2026, 517 wells have been added.

These wells, which have been abandoned by companies that have gone out of business or been shut down by the state after repeated violations, cost the state millions toplug and make safe. Since 2023, Louisiana has spent $90 million to plug 490 orphaned wells, with the average well costing about $113,000 toplug. To deal with all the wells on the list,the bill could be upward of $730 million.

So far,the state has relied on amix of sources for the money,including some federal dollars. We were hopeful in 2024 when the Legislature created theLouisiana Natural Resources Trust Authority,which oversees afund drillers must pay into that is used to fund cleanup and plugging of abandoned wells. We thought it only fair to have companies that reap the rewards of oil exploration when things go right, shoulder the burden when things go wrong. But this idea has been hobbled by our lawmakers’ failure to give it their full support. The financial security required to drill awell is too low to cover the cost of plugging awell, the legislative auditor found. But when the DepartmentofConservation and Energy pushed to raise the fee, legislators balked and instead passed alaw to limit the amount companies would pay Then too, there is the problem of repeat offenders, companies responsible for hundreds of orphaned wells throughout the state. These companies largely did notdrill the wells in question, often buying them up from other companies.The state can legally force the original driller to pay to plug awell, but they can be hard to identify after decades of wells changing hands.

If the state took the issue as seriously as it should,itwould shore up itsfund to plug wells by chargingdrillers more and aggressively pursue the owners of companies that stockpile abandoned wells to figure out if there is away to identify who should pay to plug them. And that’sjust for starters. We would like to see more checks on who is allowedtodrill in our state.

Or the state can do what it has been doing since the 1990s, plug wells when it can and ignore the five-alarm fire at its doorstep.

In Louisiana, we can look south to see thefuture. The state’scoastal zone might as well be an oracle. Read thesignals right,and you know what’s coming. Here, that means climate problems. Coastal residents already know about rising seas, sinking land and more intense storms. Those thingsare daily realities

laid waste to much of that infrastructure, including poles that supported thepower lines.

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

Camp owners near LakeDe Cade, amarshy expanse of brackish water in lower Terrebonne Parish,are in the thick of it right now.They’re faced with adaunting choice: Keep their camps without the electricity they’ve had for decades or,like the cooperative that once provided it, abandon theregion. This newspaper’sSam Karlin recently spent time down there and his report gives us rare insight intothe slow march of climate change’spernicious effects. What happened in LakeDeCade is this:Inthe 1930s,the SouthLouisiana Electric Cooperative Association, SLECA,was formed and eventually ran power tocommunities and camp clusters along the coast. That included more than ahundred in and near Lake De Cade. ButHurricane Ida in 2021

For monthsafter Ida, SLECA told camp owners across four coastal regions of Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes that it intended to rebuild. At the same time as company officials were making those promises, they were pulling up the damaged poles.

In 2024, thecooperative notified campowners in those four areas that it didn’tintend to rebuild. SLECA would file an application with the state to formally abandon the camps, the first time in Louisiana history forsuch an application. It said rebuilding to FEMA’s standards wasjust too expensive.

Since then, the Lake De Cade abandonment has been approved by the Public Service Commission. The other three have been referred to an administrative law judge. In thegrand scheme of things, this is not abig deal. No one lives full-time at Lake De Cade, which is deep in the marsh. There aren’teven that many camps anymore. It’shard not to see SLECA’s point. It would be enormously expensive to rebuild thegrid out there. And the costs

would then be passed along to SLECA’s relatively small group of ratepayers. Why should ahomeowner in some other area subsidize the extension of power to afew camps stubbornly hanging on in the marsh? It’s afair question. It’s aquestion that, even if we don’tlive on the coast, we will need to answer.How much is it worth? And as greater reaches of the coast are threatened, Louisianans on higher ground will be asked again and again to subsidize infrastructure for coastal neighbors. This is how,inalong series of small steps, acoast becomes unlivable. There’snoone moment. No single catastrophe, no individual event. It’s the cascade of smaller,incremental crises. Insurance premiumsrise, pricing somefolks out. Evacuations persuade morepeople just to stay gone. And sometimes, crucial utility providers just decide it’snot worth it anymore. If autility is saying it, manyresidents surely will say it, too. That’show,slowly,inexorably,a once-vibrant and distinctive coastal way of life, like so much coastal land, ebbs away forever

Email Faimon A. Roberts III at froberts@theadvocate.com.

I spoke to studentslast week at LSU’sManship School of Journalism as part of The Common Ground Project’s“Pizza and Public Affairs” series.

The idea is basically to get young people talking about current affairs, and the free pizza is agreat draw

As ajournalist, Iconsume alot of media. Ilisten to podcasts andfollow a number of news websites. There is no shortage of viewsout there to challenge yourown beliefs. So to me, theproblem is not alack of options out there, it’smore a lack of willingness to seek out other views.

For thoseofyou unfamiliar with The Common Ground Project, it aims to foster dialogue in our increasingly politically polarized world. It is apartnership of the nonpartisan Public AffairsResearch Council of Louisianaand LSU’sReilly Center for Media &Public Affairs. There are several programs offered throughout theyear,and not just for students. Iurge everyone totry to attendone.

In high school, Iwas in debate, and the best debaters were always the ones whowere not threatened by other views. They wanted to understand allsides of an issue and could argue convincingly because they understood all sides. But today,too many people feel threatened by disagreement or onlywant to hear arguments that align with their world view.The Common Ground Project is trying to change that.

that you can disagree and be civil, and people whohave differing viewsare not the enemy.I urged the students to read the newspaper,ofcourse, but also to read manyother sources. Be curious about your community and the world because that’sthe only waywemake it better Turning to our letters inbox, we have twoweeks to catch up on.

Iwas asked an interesting question: How should aperson make sure they are hearing arange of viewpoints in their media diet instead of just ones that confirm their own beliefs?

Andyoung people are agood place to start.Ifeel that if we are going to restore our civil society,young people must be taught that what they are seeing in politics today is not normal,

In the week of March 26-April 2, we received 73 letters, and the biggest topic wasthe warinIran. Six of you wrote with opinions on the war.The second mostpopular topic was an article on hog baying, which prompted letters from readers concerned about animal cruelty.Noother topic wasthe subject of morethan twoletters. In the weekofApril 2-9, we received 48 letters, with the U.S. Senate race being the mostpopular topic. It prompted three letters.

Email Arnessa Garrett at arnessa.garrett@theadvocate.com

Arnessa Garrett

Faimon Roberts

COMMENTARY

Letlow stoops to endorseMeans as surgeongeneral

We have anew leader in the contest for which U.S. Senate candidateinLouisiana’s Republican primary can show the mostabject toadyism to President Donald Trump. Sometimes Trumpisright, but when he is wrong, he can be spectacularly wrong It takes aspeciallevel of toadyism to campaignasif it’sa virtue to supportone of Trump’smost spectacularly wrong choices. But that’swhat U.S.Rep. JuliaLetlow is doing In numerous social media posts, Letlow has blasted her incumbentopponent,Dr. Bill Cassidy,for delayinga hearing on Trump’snomination of thecontroversial Casey Means to be surgeon general. Means, who has amedical degree but has so many oddball beliefs, bothpersonal and medical,that she might as well be an AI-generatedcaricature. Even one of the wackiest membersofMAGA-world, conspiracy theoristLaura Loomer,saysthat Means’ selectionshows“the inmatesare running the asylum.”

For once, Loomer is on the sane side of an issue. It’sbad enough that Meansisa skeptic of basic childhood vaccine regimens that have provedtheireffectiveness for decades. She also advocates decidedly unorthodox views on everythingfrom common medicines to agricultural practices to mental health —and sheboasts of experimentation with psilocybin,anillegal psychedeliccompoundfoundinsome mushrooms, while urgingher followers to use it, too.

Meanwhile, the Southern Baptist Convention’spolicy armannounced it opposes Means’nomination due to “abundant cause formedical, moral, and legal concern.” Indeed,conservative and Evangelical conservative Christians —alarge partofthe Republican electorate —have reason to be deeplysuspicious of Means’ “spiritual” practices.

Writingthat after just one datewith a certain man, she had become a“dopamine fiend,” sheembraced apsychological strategy featuring ahodgepodge of “plant

medicine,” “the divine feminine, Quantum Neuro Reset Therapy …and much more.”

She “prayed to photos of my ancestors …and wrotemantras and manifestations on small pieces of paper and tucked them around the shrine.” She “worked with a spiritual mediumwho helped me try to connect with my spirit guides forsupport and guidance. Idid full moon ceremonies with grounded, powerful women.” She “talked (literally out loud) tothe trees, letting them know Iwas ready forpartnership, and asking them if they could help.”

All of this, she wrote, was how she could “embrace the ‘woo’ (aka, the mystery).”

Because, she wrote, “Quantumentanglementtells us our choices today ripple for eternity.”

Means also is fond of assertions such as that “gastrointestinal cancers skyrocket” at least in part because “the Western world demonizes the intuitive powers of ourgut in favor of ‘experts,’ ‘proof,’ and the thinking rational brain.”

If someone treats our gutslike aquack, she’sprobably aquack.

Butdon’ttake my word for it. Listen to a true medical MAGA-ite, Trump’sown surgeon general in thepresident’sfirst term

The widely respected Dr.Jerome Adams says that Means does “not hav[e] the basic qualifications to do thejob” and, indeed, “seemsa disastrously poor fit.”

It is clear that Means, at least fornow, lacks enough votes to be approved by the Senate’shealth committee that Cassidy chairs. The usual practice is such circumstances is todelay avote to avoid embar-

rassing the president of one’sown party, which is exactly what Cassidy has done.

YetLetlow keeps attacking Cassidy for “stalling” when she says he should “move this nomination forward” to be “truly supporting President Trump’sagenda.”

For Letlow to support such amanifestly unfit candidate forsurgeon general is to show alevel of obsequiousness to Trump that is off the charts. Does Letlow have any independent judgment?

For that matter,not even Trumpseems sold on, or even paying much attention to, Means’ nomination.

The other day on Air Force One, he said, “Wehave alot of candidates” forsurgeon general. If Trumpdoesn’treally care much about Means, whyshould Letlow repeatedly say it is essential to support such a ludicrous nominee?

To be clear,Cassidy has supported a whole slew of bad Trumpnominees. His hands certainly aren’tclean. But when he finally does the right thing forthe country and forTrump, by bottling up anominee whocannot possibly serve Trumpwell, the last thing Letlow should do is attack Cassidy forit.

Louisiana needs astrong U.S. senator, not apresidential puppet. And the nation’s chief health officer should be areal doctor, not a’shroom-taking health “influencer” whosays better health care results from an intuitive gut rather than a“thinking, rational brain.”

Email Quin Hillyer at quin.hillyer@ theadvocate.com

La.Republicans couldteach Calif. Democrats

In 2024, California voters went for Kamala Harris over Donald Trump by 20 points. In 2025, they approved aballot proposition designed to counter Texas Republicans’ audacious, Trump-backed redistricting plan by nearly 30 points. In 2026, there’sanotso-far-fetched possibility that the state, one of the nation’sbluest, willreplace self-appointed Trump troll Gavin Newsom in the governor’s office with —get this —aRepublican. That the state’sDemocrats are increasingly alarmed by this nightmare scenario has nothing to do with shifting political winds, andeverything to do with California’s adoption in 2011 of theopen primary,the same system long used in Louisiana So, as voters here are currently decoding new party primary rules to electa U.S. senator and afew other top officials, Californians are grappling with one of the quirks of the system that Louisianans know and still love, accordingtopolls: When Republicans, Democrats and everyone

else runonone primaryballot, prettymuch anythingcan happen. In this case, awhole bunch of Democrats signed up, any of whom would be aheavy favorite against any Republican runoff opponent. But because none of them has caught momentumortakenone for the team and dropped out, polls are showing that two Republicans could claim the top two primary slots, leaving Democratic voters witha deeply unpalatable choice come November. If any of this sounds familiar to Louisianans, it should. Republicansinour state faced just such a scenario three decades ago. Louisiana’s Senate seat in 1996 wasvacant,courtesy of J. Bennett Johnston’s retirement.Atthe time, the state was still regularly electing Democrats,but ashift was alreadyunderway, andRepublicans thought they had agood shotat electingone of their own for the first timesince Reconstruction.

Butwhichone? Four candidates who were considered mainstream conserva-

tivesigned up: U.S. Rep. Jimmy Hayes, legislator Chuck McMains, New OrleansCity Council member Peggy Wilson and businessman Bill Linder.Sodid former legislator Woody Jenkins, who had afirm base of Christian conservatives but was considered moreright-wing than the others, and therefore less electable.

As they struggled to standout, two Democrats, former state treasurer Mary Landrieu and attorney general Richard Ieyoub, stubbornly held theone-two spots in polls, potentially leaving Republicans shut out Andthere was another complication. Alsointhe race was Republican David Duke, the former Klansman and legislator who five years earlier made worldwide news by gettingintoagubernatorial runoff. As folks in Louisiana politics knew,Duke was awild card who often got moresupport on election day than he showed in public polls.

The prospect of an all-Democrat runoff or one pitting aDemocrat againstDuke was too much for Republican leaders, including the presidential campaign of Bob Dole, who understood that aDuke

runoff candidacy would be an embarrassment for the party beyond Louisiana’sborders. And so agroup led by then-U.S. Rep. Bob Livingston and his fellow GOP membersofthe state congressionaldelegation cameupwith a plan. They would pick one of the Republicans, dominate the news cycle by stagingasteady rollout of endorsements and signal to GOP voters to fall in line if they wanted acandidate in the runoff. While any one of the moremainstream candidates would have likely been asmarter and more personallyappealing choice, Jenkins consistently polled just ahead of them, so he got the nod. It came awfully close to working. Jenkins finished first in the primarywith 26% to Landrieu’s22% and Ieyoub’s20%, followed by Duke at 12%. Nobody else topped 6%. Butthen in the runoff, he fell 5,788 votes short, suggesting it’shighly likely that adifferent Republican could have won Instead, Landrieu served three terms before the state’sgradual shift to the right finally came for her in 2014—inthe person, ironi-

cally,ofthe now-endangered Bill Cassidy Icalled Livingston recently to see if,given this experience, he might have someadvice forCalifornia Democrats. He declined “I think they’re crazy,” he said but did have somethoughts about the Republicans. “If polls show you’ve got a chance at two Republicans in the runoff, my advice is to stay firm,” he said. He said he wasn’thappy to see Trumpendorse one of them, Steve Hilton, because that might shiftenough votes from fellow Republican Chad Bianco to allow aDemocrat into the top tier “I think that wasamistake,” Livingston said. Indeed, if the Democrats can’t find away to choose among their own —and as of now they haven’t —itmight wellend up being a mistake that saves them come primary day on June 2. It’s certainly areminder that Louisiana’straditional way of voting can be either charming or challenging, but is rarely boring. Email StephanieGrace at sgrace@theadvocate.com.

Wayback when parishes were created, emerging government leaders thought it might be agood idea to have someone keep track of legal matters and property

During Reconstruction, roughly between 1865 and 1877, Black people held elective offices in Louisiana, including “Radical Republican” acting Gov.P.B.S. Pinchback and Lt. Gov.Oscar Dunn, respectively the state’sfirst Black governor and first Black lieutenant governor.Local governance was important, so there were several clerks in Orleans Parish, some reports sayasmany as seven or eight.It’s unclear how many of those clerks were Black, but New Orleans had asubstantial population of free Blacks at atime when about 2,000 Black men held elective office. Since then, overseeing parish elections hasbecomeacritical part of the job. When the White supremacistfocused Democrats endedRe-

construction,they consolidated power,eliminating several clerk jobs and combining theduties. The argument: This saves moneyand reducesthe size of government

tiaryatAngola. In 2011, new evidence allowed him to plead to alesser charge and walk out of prison as afree man.About adecade later,in2021, OrleansParish Judge Nandi Campbell cleared that conviction.

the incumbent wrote in aNew Orleans Agenda column. “I urge the Legislature to reject this bill and stand withthe voters of Orleans Parish.”

unseat him.Still, this isn’tabout color,ethnicity or race.

Afew daysago, the Louisiana Senatevoted to approve Senate Bill 256, merging civil and criminal clerk’soffices in New Orleans. Theargument: This saves moneyand reduces thesize of government. Or so they say If the Louisiana House of Representatives follows the Senateand approves themeasure, Gov.Jeff Landry would sign it. That could stop the legally elected Orleans criminal district clerk from taking office on May 4.

Calvin Duncan is ahero to many,aman whotravels the country sharinghis story about being convicted of a1980s murder he hascontinuously said he didn’tcommit. He was sentenced to life in prison, serving 28 years at theLouisianaState Peniten-

Duncan and his advocates said he was exonerated. Attorney General Liz Murrill and anumber of other conservative politicians disagreed.

As Duncan campaigned to defeat incumbent Darren Lombard, Murrill called Duncan’sclaim of exoneration “an inaccurate statement.” She said theconviction was vacated, meaning there was no proven innocence.

The incumbent used theexoneration claim as acampaign weapon against Duncan, but it didn’t work. Duncan won overwhelmingly,68% to 32%.

Lombard, to his credit,let it go.

“Asclerk of Criminal District Court for OrleansParish,Irespect the will of the voters above all. Just months ago, the people chose my successor,Mr. Duncan,”

New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno, who supported Lombard over Duncan, agrees.

“New Orleans courts and clerk offices serve New Orleans residents,” Moreno said in astatement. “Changes of this consequence require local leadership, real data, andgenuine collaboration with stakeholders. Without that, Iwill continue to voice my strong opposition.”

The bill would merge criminal clerk operations into the parish civil clerk office, led by Civil District Court Clerk Chelsea Richard Napoleon. She didn’trequest this merger,and she said it would be challenging and costly to combine theoffices.

Thank goodness we’ve progressed far enough from Reconstruction days that aBlack man can be theincumbent clerk and aBlack man can challenge and

This is apersonal vendetta against aman who, exonerated or not, madesomething of himself, becameaproductive citizen, became an example formany and amentor to others, aman who would have good reason to be bitter after spending so manyyears behind bars.

Bill sponsor Jay Morris, R-West Monroe, said his bill isn’tfocused on Duncan.

Yeah, sure.

If Lombard had won reelection, this wouldn’tbeanissue.

If the nameofthe clerk election winner wereCharlene Duncan or Charles Duncan, this wouldn’tbe an issue. They want to oust aman chosen by the people to represent them to handle, among other things, fair and free elections.

Idon’tbelieve Morris. And neither should you.

Email Will Sutton at wsutton@ theadvocate.com.

Stephanie Grace

Will Sutton

Quin Hillyer

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By TOMBRENNER

CaseyMeans testifies during aconfirmation hearing for U.S. surgeon general on Feb.25.

LSUbeats Arizona, finding a winning knack

BY JIM KLEINPETER

Contributing writer

The margin for error is razor-thin in softball, but LSU is starting toshowa knack for being on the winning side of it

The No. 21 Tigers beat No. 13 Arizona forthe second timeintwo days withtight pitching by Cece Celluraand another key hit byKylee Edwards in a3-1 victory atTiger Park on Saturday Cellura stymied theWildcats, who entered the series with the nation’sNo. 9batting average, for fiveinningsbeforegiving up arun in the sixth. She then pitched out of a bases-loaded jaminthe seventh Edwards provided arun-scoring triple in the first inning and scored on asacrifice fly by Alix Franklin. It was the eighth winin11games forLSU (28-13), which is making arun during the second half of the season

“Weare finding ways and thathas been abig push over the lastfew weeks,”LSU coach Beth Torina said. “It seemedlike we were on the wrong side of the one-run

Saints’ offseason spending sets up draftnicely

BY MATTHEW PARAS Staff writer

Kellen Moore knows NFL teamsshoot for the same goal during free agency.Withthe NFL draft largely unpredictable, theideais to do enough in free agency that when the picks come flying in thatApril, reaching to fill amajor need isn’tanecessity There are exceptions, but everyorganizationwants to maintain flexibility ahead of the draft.

“I feellikewe’re in a healthy spot in that case,” Moore said The Saints’ moves in free agency explain why.Ingiving out more than $183 million worth of contracts —with more than $116 millioninguarantees, according toOver The Cap —to11players, NewOrleans took steps to shore up its strugglingrunning gameand replacea key leader after linebacker DemarioDavis departed forthe New York Jets. As aresult, the Saints appear tohave the flexibility they wanted.Signingrunning back Travis Etienne, for instance, makes

Back to pack

AUGUSTA, Ga. Tenyears ago, an LSU golfer named Smylie Kaufman was one stroke off the lead going into the final round of the Masters.

Onedecade on, another Tiger —former LSU All-American Sam Burns —virtually has the identical opportunity Achance to makehistory Achance to win agreen jacket Achance for golfing immortality Burns’ playing partner Saturday,reigning Masters champion RoryMcIlroy,began the third round with thepower to turn the tournament intoacoronation-like snoozefest or awild free-for-all marching toward Sunday’sfinal round. No offense to theuber-popular McIlroy,but for every golf fan who enjoys alittle drama withSunday coffee, thankfully free-for-all won out. McIlroy golfed

hisballall over the lot fora1-over 73, his Masters record six-stroke lead after 36 holes melting in the hot Georgia sun. After Friday’smagic, when McIlroy looked like he could do no wrong, Saturday his golf game looked like what Iimagine mac and cheese in acan must taste like (yes, that’ssomething they actually have on the shelves in McIlroy’snative Northern Ireland).

By the timeitwas over,McIlroy was still in the lead but now had to share it with Cameron Young, whowas as on fire Saturday as McIlroy wasFriday.Young fired a7-under 65 after starting the day eight strokes off the lead to tie McIlroy at 11 under Perhaps just as importantly,McIlroy —who started theday ahalf-dozen shots ahead of Burns and former

of chase ä See RABALAIS, page 6C

BY REED DARCEY Staff writer

Once LSUwrapped up itsfirst twoweeksof spring practice, coach Lane Kiffin said it was “obvious” the Tigers were much further along on defensethan offense. How could they not be? On defense, LSU retained its coaching staff and several key starters,while theoffense underwent a transformation.Newcomers

Scott Rabalais

STAFF PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

LSU shortstop Kylee Edwards rounds second in the first inningofagame against Arizona on SaturdayatTiger Park. LSU won3-1.

LSU point guard Thomas transferring to Houston

LSU point guard Dedan Thomas is transferring to Houston, he announced on social media on Saturday

The 6-foot-1 junior averaged 15.3 points, a team-leading 6.5 assists and 1.6 turnovers per game before having season-ending foot surgery in February Thomas is the third LSU player to decide where he will play next season. The others are Mike Nwoko, who is heading to Xavier, and Marcus Vaughns, who is going to Arizona State. Thomas was the first player to indicate his intention to enter the transfer portal on March 25. This was the day before coach Will Wade was announced as the new coach of the program, replacing Matt McMahon.

Reliever Kimbrel brought up from minors by Mets

Diggins to Sky; Sabally joins Liberty

Griner reportedly finalizing deal with Sun

BY DOUG FEINBERG Associated Press

Skylar Diggins is headed to Chicago while Satou Sabally is coming to New York as WNBA free agents were able to officially sign

Saturday Diggins spent the past two seasons with the Seattle Storm before coming to the Sky — a move announced on social media. The seven-time All-Star gives the team another veteran guard and brings her closer to where she grew up in South Bend, Indiana.

She averaged 15.5 points and 6.0 assists last season.

Sabally’s move to New York was confirmed by her agent Zack Miller She joins an already stacked roster as Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu already said they’ll be back in New York. Sabally also looked at coming to the Liberty last season when she was also a free agent before landing with the Phoenix Mercury Sabally averaged 16.3 points, 5.9 rebounds and 2.5 assists to earn an All-Star spot her third.

She raised her game in the postseason, averaging 19 points and seven rebounds before suffering a concussion in Game 3 of the series against Las Vegas that caused her to miss the final game of the series.

While Diggins and Sabally are changing teams, Kelsey Mitchell and Dearica Hamby are staying put. Mitchell will continue her time in Indiana pairing with Caitlin Clark for one of the most talented backcourts in the league.

“For nearly a decade, Kelsey has been a foundational piece of the Indiana Fever and securing her return was our highest priority Kelsey Mitchell is among the top of a long list of a great athletes who have elevated not only our city and franchise, but their

ASSOCIATED

Seattle Storm guard Skylar Diggins moves the ball during a game against the New york Liberty on June 22 in Seattle. The seven-time WNBA All-Star is heading to the Chicago Sky

sport as a whole,” Fever general manager Amber Cox said Hamby announced on social media that she was returning to the Los Angeles Sparks. The three-time All-Star will be part of a talented group that includes newly signed Nneka Ogwumike, Kelsey Plum and Cameron Brink.

Late Friday, Brittney Griner was said to be finalizing a deal to join the Connecticut Sun, according to a person familiar with the negotiations.

The 10-time All-Star spent last season with the Atlanta Dream after playing the first 11 years of her career for Phoenix, which drafted her No. 1 in 2013.

The 35-year-old Griner is from Houston and the Connecticut franchise is moving there in 2027.

The 6-foot-9 forward won a WNBA title in 2014 with Phoenix and was the league’s leading scorer in 2017 and 2019. She was the defensive player of the year in 2014 and 2015.

Other moves announced Saturday included Jessica Shepard going to Dallas and Natisha Hiedeman heading to Seattle.

Toronto Tempo

The expansion Tempo signed Brittney Sykes to partner with Marina Mabrey in the backcourt. She averaged 14.1 points, 4.0 assists and 3.2 rebounds last season while playing for Washington and Seattle.

“Brittney is an elite competitor who impacts winning on both ends of the floor,” Tempo general manager Monica Wright Rogers said.

“Her defensive versatility, toughness and leadership set a standard, and adding a player of her caliber and All-Star experience is a significant step as we continue to build our roster.”

Mabrey, who was selected by the Tempo in the expansion draft, averaged 12.5 points last season as well as being a secondary playmaker and physical perimeter defender

Chicago Sky

Diggins wasn’t the only player the Sky signed on the first day of free agency Chicago is bringing back forward Azura Stevens, who helped the franchise win a title in

2021.

“I’m truly excited to be coming home to join the Chicago Sky,” Stevens said. “This city means everything to me. The culture, the people, the passion for the game. To have the opportunity to come back to Chicago is amazing. I’m ready to get to work, embrace the moment, and give everything I have. Let’s work.”

Stevens played the past three years with the Sparks, finishing second in Most Improved Player voting last season. She averaged 12.8 points, 8.0 rebounds, 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks.

The Sky also acquired guard Jacy Sheldon from the Washington Mystics. The Mystics receive Chicago’s 2028 first-round pick.

Atlanta Dream

The Dream brought back Rhyne Howard and Jordin Canada on Saturday to go along with Allisha Gray, Brionna Jones and Naz Hillmon to lock in their core group.

“This is a group that believes in Atlanta, believes in each other and is united in the pursuit of a championship,” Dream GM Dan Padover said. “Allisha, Brionna, Jordin, Naz and Rhyne represent the standard we are building here in Atlanta; talented, unselfish and fully committed to winning. Their decision to continue building together, in this city and with each other, speaks to their belief in our vision and culture — one built to win, with great players and even better people.”

The group was instrumental in the Dream’s 2025 season, which included 30 wins and a .682 winning percentage, the best marks in team history

Indiana Fever

In addition to re-signing Mitchell and Lexie Hull, the Fever brought in free agent forward Monique Billings following a one-year stint with the expansion Golden State Valkyries. Billings appeared in 26 games, averaging 7.3 points per game.

LSU women’s hoops gets Florida transfer

role that Hines left behind.

BY REED DARCEY Staff writer

It’s been a busy recruiting weekend for the LSU women’s basketball team, which signed one transfer guard on Saturday while preparing for a visit with another Laila Reynolds, a rising senior guard from Florida, will now play for the Tigers in 2026-27. She visited with coach Kim Mulkey and her staff on Friday and announced that she had committed on Saturday — the day a source confirmed that Iowa State point guard Jada Williams was headed to Baton Rouge for a visit that will stretch into Sunday “I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to coach (Reynolds),” Mulkey said in a statement. “Our goals for next season align, making it the perfect fit Her skill set paired with three years of SEC experience will be a huge asset to our team.” Reynolds is a 6-foot-1 three-year starter and former McDonald’s All-American. As a junior, she averaged 12.1 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game while shooting 43% from the field. Williams, a 5-6 ballhandler, is also a rising senior, and she’s one of the top players in the transfer portal She scored 15.3 points and assisted 7.7 shots per game this past season, finishing the year with the third-highest assist average among Division I players. She spent the first two years of her career at Arizona. Both Reynolds and Williams played in the 2023 McDonald’s All-America game alongside Mikaylah Williams and MiLaysia Fulwiley — the two star guards who can return to the Tigers for their senior seasons. They can each help Mulkey and her staff replenish the backcourt depth they’re losing to the transfer portal.

Four LSU guards have decided to test the market as of Saturday Point guard Jada Richard, an Opelousas native, is on the move. So, too, are freshman Bella Hines, freshman Divine Bourrage and senior Kailyn Gilbert — the off-thebench scoring threat who played in just the first five games of the 2025-26 season before stepping away for personal reasons. Bourrage has already signed with Illinois. Reynolds can help LSU fill the

When she was in high school, the Maryland native was one of the 20 best recruits in her class, according to ESPN. She wound up starting 97 games in the three years she spent with the Gators, and she improved her scoring production each season, though she did shoot only 5 of 37 from 3-point range in 2025-26 while turning the ball over 97 times. Only seven SEC players piled up more giveaways this past season than she did.

Jada Williams the 10th-best player in the transfer portal, according to ESPN would be LSU’s replacement for Richard. She has 90 career starts, and as a junior, she was one of only nine Division I players who averaged at least 15 points and five assists per game. Even if Mulkey and her staff land Williams, they’d still have another move or two to make. Forward Grace Knox and center Kate Koval can return next season, but LSU may explore the possibility of moving forward ZaKiyah Johnson from the post to the perimeter, which would leave it with a couple holes to fill in the frontcourt. The Tigers’ lone 2026 freshman signee is Lola Lampley — a 6-foot2 wing from Indiana.

The transfer portal is open until April 20, and LSU can recruit players who have entered it both before and after it closes.

NEW YORK Nine-time All-Star

reliever Craig Kimbrel joined his 10th major league team Saturday when the New York Mets selected his contract from Class A St. Lucie. A 37-year-old right-hander, Kimbrel is fifth in career saves behind Hall of Famers Mariano Rivera (652) and Trevor Hoffman (601) along with Lee Smith and Kenley Jansen (both 478).

Kimbrel replaced mop-up man Richard Lovelady, who was designated for assignment.

“If the game calls for a high leverage, I’m not going to hesitate,” manager Carlos Mendoza said of Kimbrel. “Well on his way to being a Hall of Famer It’s not like a guy that’s coming up to the big leagues for the first time. He’s been in those roles for a long time and had a pretty successful career.”

Toronto DH Springer leaves game with fractured toe

TORONTO Toronto Blue Jays designated hitter George Springer left Saturday’s game against the Minnesota Twins because of a fractured big toe on his left foot. Miles Straw hit for Springer in the sixth inning. Springer fouled a ball off his foot in the third but completed his atbat, grounding out to third base. Manager John Schneider said Springer had an X-ray at the stadium, then left to undergo a CT scan.

“We’ll know more in the next couple of days,” Schneider said.

Toronto’s leadoff hitter, the veteran Springer came into Saturday’s game batting .189 with two home runs and six RBIs. He was a big part of Toronto’s run to the 2025 World Series, hitting .309 with 32 homers and 89 RBIs in the regular season.

Cowboys DB arrested on drug possession charges

McKINNEY, Texas Dallas Cowboys defensive back Markquese Bell was arrested on drug possession charges following a traffic stop in the Dallas area, police said Saturday Police in the suburb of Prosper said an officer could smell marijuana after Bell was pulled over on Friday night. A search of his vehicle uncovered less than 2 ounces of marijuana and a THC electronic cigarette, and he was taken into custody on charges of possession of marijuana and a controlled substance, police said.

A spokesman for the Cowboys said the club was aware of the arrest and declined to comment further

The 27-year-old Bell joined the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent out of Florida A&M in 2022.

Fury routs Makhmudov in his boxing comeback

LONDON Tyson Fury showed little rust in dominating Arslanbek Makhmudov for a unanimous decision victory Saturday and immediately challenged a ringside Anthony Joshua to fight him next. “Let’s give the fight fans what they want,” Fury bellowed after going 12 rounds.

A Fury-Joshua heavyweight showdown would be one of the biggest fights in British boxing history Joshua sat ringside during the fight at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

As for Saturday’s fight, Fury (35-2-1) had a fairly slow start but otherwise dictated the pace with his left jab and in later rounds landed frequent lead uppercuts on Makhmudov (21-3). Two judges scored it 120-108 and the

PRESS FILE PHOTO By LINDSEy WASSON

STAFF FILE PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

Florida guard Laila Reynolds pumps her fist after an LSU turnover during a game Jan. 26 at the PMAC. Reynolds is transferring to LSU for her senior season.

Schmidt, LSUbaseballhit potholein4th at OleMiss

BY KOKI RILEY Staff writer

OXFORD,Miss. William Schmidt had the game in the palm of his hand.

The LSUsophomoreright-handed starter hadn’tallowedahit in three innings, and seven of his nine outs came via strikeout on Saturday afternoon at Swayze Field. The Tigers had to feel good, with arguably their top arm in agroove and a2-0 lead over Ole Miss

“I thought his first (inning) was excellent,” LSU coach Jay Johnson said. “The third wasexcellent.I thought he grinded his way through the second inning.”

But then LSU (22-14, 6-8SEC) hit awall. Walks from Schmidt and the long ball led to four runs for Ole Miss in the fourth inning as the LSU bats went in the deep freeze. It all added up to a12-2 defeat in seven innings because of the 10-run mercy rule. It also meant aseries loss to the Rebels.

Schmidt enteredthe weekend with a2.63 ERA and hadn’tallowed more than three earned runs in a start all year.His swing-and-miss stuff appeared to be amismatch for Ole Miss (25-11, 7-7), an offense that tends to strike out alot, and that’sexactly what happenedatthe start.

But then the fourth inning happened. Schmidt got ahead in the count on the first two battersbut walked them both. Aftera wild pitchallowed arunner to reach third, Ole Miss hit asacrifice fly and asingle to tie the game 2-2.

Ole Miss foundagroove from there. Catcher Austin Fawley blasted atwo-run home run to give the Rebels a4-2 lead before adouble knocked Schmidt out of the game. The LSU bullpen threw gasolineon the fire, surrendering eight runs on six hits over the next two innings to give Ole Miss a12-2 advantage after the sixth.

ON DECK

WHO: LSU(22-14, 6-8 SEC)

vs. Ole Miss(25-11, 7-7)

WHEN: 1p.m., Sunday WHERE: Swayze Field

ONLINE: SECNetwork+

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

RANKINGS: LSUisNo. 24 in D1Baseball’srankings, OleMissis No.25

PROBABLESTARTERS: LSU —RHP GrantFontenot (0-0, 1.50 ERA); Ole Miss—RHP Taylor Rabe (3-1, 3.20 ERA)

PREGAME UPDATES: theadvocate. com/lsu ON X: @KokiRiley

WHATTOWATCH FOR: Fontenot made his firststart forLSU last Sundayand didn’t give up an earned runin22/3 innings. He hasn’t allowedanearned run since Feb. 16 against Kent State. Rabe allowedsevenhits and three earned runs in 42/3 innings last week againstFlorida.The righthander has yettoescape the fifth inning this year Koki

also showed that he’sstill nota finished product. He had trouble finishing hitters consistently —all of his walks came on full counts and he wasn’tefficient,throwing 85 pitches in just 32/3 innings.

“They have an explosive offense,” Johnson said. “Can’t give themfree bases because eventually they’re going to homer,and they did.”

UCLA QB enjoys newcoach,playbook

BY BETHHARRIS Associated Press

LOS ANGELES— Nico Iamaleava chose to stick around forafinal season at UCLAafter oneofhis first conversations with new coach Bob Chesney

“Hewas very excitedtosee me, Iwas very excitedtosee him,” Iamaleava said Saturday in his first public comments since Chesney’s hiring in December.“We just got to chop it up about lifeand how the past year went.” Chesney comes to Westwood after leading James Madison to a12-win season and aCollege Football Playoff berth. The Bruins, on theother hand, went 3-9 after DeShaun Foster wasfired after an 0-3 start to the season andreplaced by interim coach TimSkipper

Iamaleavathrew for1,928 yards,with 13 touchdowns and seveninterceptions. He was the Bruins’ leading rusher with 505 yards, having transferredfrom TennesseelastApril. He wasn’t with the team for spring practice last year

Now,he’sgetting afull spring camp under his belt and learning anew offensive playbook.

“It’s alot of stuff that we’re installing,” Iamaleava said. “Last year when Igot in, everything was fast-forwarded for me. I went into fall campstill learning theoffense. Being able to come in and get awhole spring with the guys, it’sbeen great bonding with them.”

ThehiringofChesney andoffensive coordinator Dean Kennedy,who cameover from James Madison, has injected new enthusiasm into theprogram.IamaleavadescribedChesney as “high energyand very charismatic.”

“Ifyou’renot comingout here with the right energy and right mindset to compete, he’sgoing to send you home,” Iamaleava said.

“He makes guys buy in and want to playfor aguy like him.”

Iamaleava is focused on building his strength this spring after taking alot of hits last year.He

OFFENSE

Continued from page1C

But the defense won the day Turnovers, penalties, dropped passes and miscommunications kept interferingwiththe offense, whichshouldn’tsurprise anyone who’sbeen listening to Kiffin.

“If we were to play right now,” he said on Tuesday,“we’dplay to ourdefense.Because we have some great defensive players that are playing really well, until theoffense comes along.

UCLA quarterback Nico

Iamaleava throws apass during a game against Washington on Nov. 22 in Pasadena, Calif. Iamaleava is goingthrough his first full spring practice with the Bruins.

said he weighs 218 pounds and aims to be at 220 to 225 pounds by theBruins’openeronSept. 5 at California.

“It took atoll on the body,” he said. “Getting bigger was the main thing formethis offseason. WhenI gettothe season,I’ll be able to take those hits alittle easier.”

Cole Martin was oneofthree defensive backs to start all 12 games for the Bruins last year, his first season in Westwood after transferring from Arizona State. His 65 total tackles ranked fourth on the team

Five practices into spring, Martin said Iamaleava is making solid reads and passes.

“He’sdonea great jobofbeing thatguy thatwecan look up to, being that guy that the QBs in his room can follow and the receivers can trust andthe linemen respect,” Martin said. “He’sgoing to keep on elevating.”

Martin said Chesneyisbuilding aculture of brotherhood.

“Coach Chesney is awhole different type of coach,” Martin said. “He wantstobeout there playing with us. It makes everybody better whenyour head coach is just as motivated and intrigued as you are.”

through preseason camp. Otherpositionbattles

LSU is expected to hold position battles at twoorthree spots on the offensive line in preseason camp, but in spring, Kiffinand his staff have used largely the same first-team grouping in portions of practice open to reporters. Colorado transfer Jordan Seaton hasbeen theleft tackle, andreturner Weston Davis has been the right. The two guards have been returner Bo Bordelonand Maryland transfer Aliou Bah, whilethe center has been returnerBraelin Moore.

LSU

Continued from page1C

games. It’snice to see our team finding ways to win.” Cellura (6-4) allowed only an unearned run with three strikeouts and one walk. The Wildcats (29-11) made it interesting with a pair of two-out,weaklyhit infield singles and then abase hit by Sereniti Trice to put the go-ahead run on first base in the seventh. That brought up the dangerous Sydney Stewart, the team leader with 14 homers.But after avisit fromTorina,Cellura got Stewart on afly ball to right field to end the game.

“She just said, ‘Don’tgivein,’ ” Cellura said. “It was abig moment She said,‘Throw your best stuff, go at her,don’tgive in.’ It was just trusting the people behind me. They were competing their butts off, and Iknow no matter what they are going to getthe next out. Even when things get big, even in the seventh inning, Iknew we were going to get the out.”

Despite Saturday’ssetback, Schmidt hasbeen the most consistent LSU starter.His command has improvedfroma year ago, and the emergence of his changeup has allowed himtouse four pitches that he cankeephitters off-balance with. Hiscurveball and sliderhave been excellentswing-and-missofferings But his struggles at Swayze Field

“They’re disappointed,” Johnson said.“I’msure alot of guys,Ihope, arefeelingsomepainfromtheir performance.”

LSU pitcher CeceCellura delivers a pitch against Arizona in the second inning on SaturdayatTiger Park. Cellura allowedonly an unearned runwiththree strikeouts and one walk

The LSU attack got off toahot start with four hits andtwo runs through twoinnings. Junior Steven Milam drove in arun in the first with atwo-out double, and senior ChrisStanfield hit asacrificeflyin thesecond.

But theTigerswere silent after that. They didn’tput arunnerin scoring position after the secondinning and mustered only twosingles the rest of the game.

LSU and Ole Miss finish their three-gameseries in Oxford on Sunday.First pitch is set for 1p.m., andthe game will be availableto stream on SEC Network+.

herswingonballthree. Thenoswing call by third-base umpire Laura King drew avociferous objection from Arizona coach Caitlin Lowe.

Edwards, who is 23 for 56 in her last 18 games, now has four triples this season and six in her career

“She’s(Adams) areally good pitcher on the other side, she was really spinning theball,” Edwards said. “Wepieced it together,getting base runners on.Wedid a great job of that. Not necessarily hits but walks and hit by pitches, gettingthe timely hit.

“She tried to throw it away and I wentthatway.This is my first year of hitting triples,soImust have gotten faster.”

“But we’renot playingright now.”

Here’swhat else stood out from thetwo-hour session, the ninth of 15 practices that LSU has scheduled this spring.

Quarterbacks

It’simportant to note that presumptivestarting quarterback Sam Leavitt did not participate in full-team drills Saturday.Kiffin said he’ll sit the rest of spring practice because he recently underwent ascheduledprocedure to remove the pins in his surgically repaired right foot.

So the Tigers are using the second half of their spring to evaluatethe twosignal-callers they have behind him:Longstreet and Clark. Both passersoperated the first-team offense on Saturday though Clark took more reps with the ones thanLongstreet. Neither quarterback hada particularly sharp day. The defense intercepted several passes in full-teamwork, including the reps that redshirt freshman EmilePicarellatook with the third-teamoffense.

Ole Miss transfer Devin Harper hasgottenrepsatleft guard this spring, but mostofthose snaps lately have gone to Bordelon. On Saturday,the second-team offensive line —from the left side to the right —was Baylor transfer Sean Thompkins, Harper, Tennessee transfer William Satterwhite,NCCentraltransfer Ja’Quan Sprinkle and Kentucky transfer Darrin Strey Watkins, Hawaiitransfer Jackson Harris and Illinois transfer Malik Elzyformed thefirst grouping of wide receivers Saturday On defense, the Tigers rotated theirdefensive tackles.Junior DominickMcKinley got firstteam reps. So, too, did freshman DeuceGeralds, Auburn transfer Malik Blocton andfifth-year senior Shone Washington. The top three edge rushers on Saturday wereOle Misstransfer PrincewillUmanmielen, Tennessee transfer Jordan Ross and returning redshirtjunior Dylan Carpenter.

JuniorDashawn Spearsspent most of his time at the Star position. Redshirt junior Tamarcus Cooley andTyBenefield, aBoise Statetransfer, mannedthe two safety spots.

Attendance andinjuries

In thefirst inning, Kylee Edwards tripledtothe right-field corner one out after Jalia Lassiterwas hitby apitch. Franklin drove in Edwards with adeep drivetoleft field.

LSUpushed across an insurance runwhen Ally Hutchins drew a bases-loaded walk in the bottom of thesixth, onepitch after checking

TheonlyArizona runcamewhen Tori Edwards dropped apop fly for atwo-base error and Grace Jenkins hit asacrifice fly in the sixth inning. LSU, which was outhit 7-3, had nearly as much trouble getting to Arizona aceJalen Adams(16-6).

Taking theseries puts LSU in position to moveupinthe national rankings. The Tigershave home series against two of the bottom three SEC teams in Ole Miss and Auburn, plus an away series at No. 14 Mississippi State. TheTigers go for the sweep against Arizona at 11 a.m. Sunday

“Wedefinitely want to try to finishthe deal tomorrow,” Torina said. “These two games are probably as big as any on our schedule allyear long. They’re going to mean aton when we get downto postseason conversations.”

The first-team offensehad troublepicking up first downs andsustainingdrives. Oneofits possessions stalledona checkdown pass.Another ended on a scramble run. Then there was a drive-ending holding penalty,a pair of interceptions, abotched toss exchange,ahigh snap and an incompletion over the middle

The starters didscore three touchdowns, though, and two of themcameonexplosive passing plays —one to receiver Winston Watkins and another to tight end Malachi Thomas. Longstreet, aformer five-star recruit, becamethe presumptive backup to Leavitt as soon as he transferred to LSU in January Butitlooks like Clark will have a shot at the job, too. That battle should continue

Twoplayers were bangedup on Saturday: sophomorecornerback Aidan Anding and edge rusher Damien Shanklin. Anding appeared to injure his leg on one scrimmagerep, and he wasspotted in awalking boot toward the end of the session.

Linebacker Whit Weeks(foot) still isn’tpracticing. On Thursday,heworked with atrainer off to the side, and on Saturday,he watched from the sideline. Leavittwas on thefieldSaturday,and he hada helmet on. But all he did wassome light individual workatthe start of practice.

STAFF PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

STAFF PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

LSU pitcher WilliamSchmidt, left, runs to the mound forthe first inning of agame against Sacramento State on March 8atAlex Box Stadium.

AP FILEPHOTO By KyUSUNG GONG

Breaking down draftscenarios forSaints

BY MATTHEWPARAS, LUKE JOHNSON,ROD WALKER and JEFF DUNCAN Staff writers

There is less than two weeks to ruminate, dissect and mock-upthe 2026 NFL Draft, so we thought it was agood time to get our New Orleans Saints coverage team together for aroundtable.

The Times-Picayune crew sat down to answer aseriesofquestionsabout the Saints’ plans for their picks, starting with No. 8in the first round; some of thetop prospects;and how the young coaching staff is building around quarterback Tyler Shough What’s the best-case scenario forthe Saints at pick No. 8?

Matthew Paras:The more offensive linemen that go early,the better If Arizona and Cleveland take linemen at Nos. 3and 6, respectively, the Saints likely will land avery,very goodplayer whofits their needs. I’d lean edge rusher at that spot —either Rueben Bain or David Bailey,ifavailable —but I’d also understand the temptation to take wide receiver Carnell Tate or safety Caleb Downs. Idon’tthink New Orleans could go wrong with any of those four,assuming Jeremiyah Love is already gone LukeJohnson:I’m with Matt here: The best thing that could happen for New Orleans is for teams to chase offensive tackles in the top seven —or, who knows, for someone to get enamored with quarterback Ty Simpson— to give New Orleans options. While Ican support drafting to fill immediate needs, especially at premium positions such as receiver and edge rusher,I would hope for the opportunity to draft either Notre Dame running back Love or Ohio State defensive back Downs. In adraft that feels short of star power, these two feel like they have the most AllPro potential.

Rod Walker:The Saints really can’t go wrong —unlessthey do something really strange and draft an offensive lineman or quarterback. That surely won’t happen. The draft isn’tdeep, but picking at No. 8should give them plenty of good options. Any offensive linementakenbefore the Saints pick only strengthens the pool of prospects theSaints will have to choose from. My best-casescenario is the Saints having the choice of Tate, Bain or Love.

Jeff Duncan:Totally agree with Luke here. If either Love or

in the previous question to go getaquality receiver in the first round, but if the Saints can get onelike Louisville receiver Chris Bell (currently rehabbing an ACL injury) in the second round, that would be huge. Bell was afirstround talent before suffering the injury last season, so landing him in the second round would be a steal.

Duncan:Iwould not take areceiverinthe top 10. While Ithink there areguys there who could upgrade the receiving corps, I don’tsee truly elite, can’t-miss prospects. This receiver class lackselite star power at the top endbut has solid depth. Ithink some of the receivers taken in the second and third rounds could turn outtobemore productive than the guys being projected in the first round this year

What would be the worst-case scenario forthe Saints?

Mauigoa —were not selected in the top seven. That likely would mean that the Saints’ prime targets —Love and Downs —almost surely be gone, along with other top prospects such as Bailey,Reese and Styles. Idon’tsee any way that happens, but you never know on draft day,especially if trades occur.The second-worst-case scenario would be if Love, Downs and Bailey are all off the board, eliminating the chance to fill a“need” position with atruly elite player.I view the other prospects as acut below those three.

Downs falls to them, the Saints should thank their luckystars and run to the podium to make the selection. Those are the two home run selections in this draft for the Saints.Everyone else would be a triple. Love is the explosiveplaymakerthis offense has lacked Downs will become the future leader of adefense. Both guys are can’t-miss, no-brainer picks.

Shouldthe Saintsprioritize offense or defense with the eighth pick?

Paras:Ina vacuum,this answer should be the offense.But this draft hasmore high-qualitydefenders near the top, so chances are the Saints wouldbebetter off landing one of those thanreaching for another wide receiver if, say, Tate isn’t available at No. 8. And even if Tate is still there, the New Orleans defense has a chance to become elite withthe right addition.

Johnson:Idon’tthink they can go into this draftwith this mindset.The Saints grabbed some nice foundational pieces in their last couple of drafts, but this is still an organizationthat is short on star power. Despitethe encouraging late-season run and free agency spending, the Saints don’tfeel ready to contend in 2026. Take the guy who has the best shot of becoming adude,no matterwhichside of the ball he plays.

Walker:Best player available. If Love isthere, take him. If Downs is there, take him. But if having to choose one, I’d lean toward the of-

fense. Yeah,the Saints signedrunning back Travis Etienne in free agency,but this team still needs more weapons. Chris Olaveis coming off agreat season, but he’s hadinjuriesinthe past. So has most of the depth behind him. So if the Saints can addanother bigtime receiver for TylerShough to throw to, this is the time to do it.

Duncan:Theyshould take the best playeronthe board.This team still needshelp in multiple areas on both sides of theball. The only positions that wouldbeoff the table for me are quarterback linebacker andoffensive line. The roster could use an influx of young talent just abouteverywhere else.

What’sone positionthe Saints can get away with taking laterinthe draft? And how late areyou waiting?

Paras:AlontaeTaylor’sdeparture in free agency created the biggest hole on thedefense. But the Saints can waittoaddress slot corner in the second or thirdrounds because of theoptions that should be there later on,whether that is ChandlerRivers of Duke,Keionte Scott of Miami or someone else. Idon’t think it’sDowns-or-bust in the first round.

Johnson:Iagreewith Matt in a sense —for slot-specific players, Ithink the Saints can find a good starter on thesecondday if they choosetogothatroute. I also think it would be wise for the Saints to shore up theirinterior line depth on both sidesofthe ball. Theyare in abit of asweet spot where they can takeplayers whomay need ayear or two to develop.

Walker:IknowIjust answered

Paras:The first round has a chance to unfold in less-than-ideal circumstances if the Jets (at 2), Cardinals (3) and Titans (4) all take edge rushers; the Giants take Downs; Cleveland takes Tate; andWashington takes Love. That would leave New Orleans with either Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles, LSU cornerback Delane or, gulp, oneofthe offensive linemen. StylesorDelane would be fine, but the Saints have bigger needs than taking atackle for the third consecutive year

Johnson:I maybeinthe minority here,but Idon’twant to be in a positionwhere taking Bain feels like the only viable option. Bain was an excellent college player andmay be able to carry that over into the NFL, but he scares me as aprospect. He’snot big, he’s notoverly athletic, and he doesn’t really seem to fit the current defense.

Walker:I’m sounding like abrokenrecord here, but Idon’treally see ascenario where the Saints can’t find areally talented player at No. 8. We know Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza will go first to the Las VegasRaiders, and Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese will go shortly afterward. But Istill have eight players who Ithink would help the Saints. My eight are: Love, Downs, Styles, Bain, Bailey, Tate, Delane and Arizona State receiver Jordyn Tyson. Assuming the Saints don’ttrade back, one of those eight guys will be there for the taking.

Duncan:The absolute worst-case scenario would be if somehow Mendoza and the top twotackles—Spencer Fano and Francis

Give me aprospect that you’re highly intrigued by for the Saints. Paras:Ilove Arkansas running back Mike Washington. He’sso explosive for his size (6-foot-2, 223 pounds), and Ithink he can be an awesomecomplement to Etienne. Drafting Washington might make Alvin Kamara expendable, but that would help ease whatever pain cutting Kamara would inflict on the fanbase.

Johnson:The cop-out answer is Downs. Ijust think he could be aforce multiplierfor the Saints defense the way Kyle Hamilton and Derwin James have been for their respective teams. But, if we’re looking for deeper cuts, Ilike the idea of Miami corner Keionte Scott as aone-for-one replacement for Taylor in the slot. Scott was aplaymaker during Miami’snational title run, racking up apair of pick-sixes and five sacks.

Walker:The aforementioned Bell. The Louisville receiver has the frame (6-2, 220) and the physicality that the Saints are missing. Devaughn Vele brings that as well, but he’sbeen dealing with injuries. If the Saints can get Bell in alater round and reunite him with Shough, it would be another toy for Kellen Moore to play with. That’sassuming the Saints are OK with whereBell is in his rehab process.

Duncan:Ilike all three of the aforementioned players and think they would be great fits for this team. I’m on record as loving Love and think he is the best overall prospect in this class and an absolute no-brainer pick if available. Ifeel the same way about Downs. That said, in the second round, I’d like to see them take apass rusher,and the guy that intrigues me is RMason Thomas of Oklahoma. He’s undersized but extremely productive and athletic. He would be agreat fit in Brandon Staley’s scheme as asituational pass rusher

Mendozapunctuates‘whirlwind’ year with ManningAward

ning Award as the best college quarterback in the nation.Itwas the latest in aparade of honors for the congenial 6-foot-5, 235-pound signalcaller

It’s been agood year for Fernando Mendoza. At this time ayear ago, hewas a transfer quarterback at Indiana, preparing for the Hoosiers’ spring game in relative anonymity Twelve months later,he’sanational champion,Heisman Trophy winner and the projected No. 1pick in the NFL draft The magic carpet ride continued this week for Mendoza. He spent the past few days at Augusta National Golf Course for the Masters, wherehepalled around with Peyton and Eli Manning, before catching aflight to NewOrleans to accept theMan-

SAINTS

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it less of ablowifNotre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love is drafted before New Orleans is on the clock at No.8.Replacing Davis with Kaden Elliss also lessensthe need for drafting an off-ball linebacker,even though this is viewed as an extremely strong class for that position.

Not every spot was filled, of course. The Saints could really use anotherwide receivertogivequarterback Tyler Shoughmore weapons, even as the team negotiates a long-term deal with Chris Olave. The defense is missing astarting nickel cornerback afterAlontae

“It’sbeen awhirlwind,”said Mendoza, beforeaccepting the bronze trophyduring aceremony at Manning’s Sports Bar and Grille in downtown New Orleans.

“But Iwould say the one word to describe it all is ablessing. I’ve been enabled and blessed to have thefantastic year that we had.”

Mendozacredited theMannings with instillingconfidence in himduringthe early part of hiscareer.Hesaid the invitation from Archie Manning to attend thefamily’s prestigious Manning Passing Academytwo years ago was so impactful hekept thetext in hisphone as areminder of how far he has comeinhis journey

“I have come along way from that moment, butfor your family

Taylor leftfor theTennessee Titans. TheSaints long have wanted to getyounger at edgerusher,and adding further help in the trenches —on bothsides of theball—remainsagoal. But even with those needs, the Saints arguably aren’tinaspot where they havetoget desperate. Look at cornerback. On the surface, draftingsafety Caleb Downs or cornerback Mansoor Delane eighthoverall would make sense to replace Taylor.Downs is aversatile piecethat canplaymultiple spots, while pickingDelane would allowthe Saintstokick someone like Quincy Rileyinside. That said, teams can findnickel cornerbacks later in the draft. That alleviates some of the pressureNew Orleans might faceinthe first round. Thesame can besaid about wide

to believe in me andtogive me an invite back then when there was absolutely zero buzz about me,really was ahuge confidencebooster for me,”Mendoza said to Cooper Manning during the Q&A portion of the ceremony “It’s ahuge honor Iwear to have this award and to be apart of the camp.Ilook forward to honoring it and doing my best in the future.”

In leading Indiana to thefirst 16-0 season in college football history,Mendoza led the FBS in touchdown passes (41) and led Power Fourconference quarterbacks with48combined rushing and passing touchdowns. He was also the only FBS quarterback with six games of four-plus touchdown passes and no interceptions.

“What ajoy it’sbeen to watch Fernando throughout this season,” said Archie Manning, who could not attend the ceremony while recovery from back surgery.“He excelled on the field week after week, right down to that fourth-down touchdown run

receiver.There’sagoodchance that at least oneofCarnell Tate, Jordyn Tyson andMakai Lemon still will be available when the Saintsare set to pick. If theSaints prefer to prioritize another position first, they likely can get away withwaiting. Chris Bell, TedHurst and Malachi Fields areall Day 2 wideouts that could be agood consolation prize for ateam in need of an offensive spark. Venturingpastthe thirdround to finda wideoutisa risk, butifthe Saints don’tnoticeably improve the positioninthe draft, they at least committed to overhauling their rushing attack. The Saints not only made Etienne the ninth-highestpaid playerathis positionbut also signed guard David Edwardstoa notable four-year,$61 million contract that ensures Etienne should

in the national championship that will live forever in Indiana history.Healso conducted himself so welloff the field and in interviews. We’re honored to recognize Fernando Mendoza as thewinner of the 2025 Manning Award.”

During his chat with Cooper Manning and at anews briefing with local reporters before the ceremony,Mendoza reflected on the unconventional road he traveled as an overlooked recruit from Miami with just one Division Ischolarship offer

“There’ssomanydifferent elements that go into my success consistency,termination, camaraderie —that I’ve been taught by alot of great mentors,” he said. “It’s not onesingular person. It’s everybody.It’sthe teammates. It’smyfamily.It’smycoaches. It’sjust been aperfect storm that’sled me to here.”

In fact, the past twoManning Award winners are primeexamples of the bromide that great players can come from anywhere.

have enough room to run.

Aseven-round draftgives teams ahealthyamount of leeway regardless of free agency.But make no mistake, this year is much differentfor theSaintsthan2024— adraft that screamed “tackle or bust”inthe first round. The Saints ended up drafting tackle Taliese Fuaga, to the surprise of no one.

TheSaints arealso in aplace where they can afford to swing on aprospect. Miami defensive end RuebenBain is apolarizing pass rusher because of his307/8-inch arm length and undersized frame, but his speed and bend could be the missing piece foraNew Orleans defense that took anoticeable leap last season.

“If you’re slightly off aprototype, you’vegot to be areally productive player,” Moore said. “Have

Cam Ward, the 2025 winner,was a no-star recruit out of Texas, who initially signed with Incarnate Word of the FCS. Mendoza wasa lightly recruited two-star recruit of Miami. He wasn’tranked among the top 250 players in the state of Florida for the Class of 2022 and originally committed to Yale beforeswitching to California late in the process.

“Early on in my career when Iwas alittle frustrated that I was atwo-star (recruit), my momtold me,don’tlet yourself get put in these imaginary boundaries and confines because once you do that, then you’re going to confine your growth,” Mendoza said. “Those are past rankings. Focus on you every single day,soyou can break out of those rankings, be free, and essentially have unlimited potential for growth ratherthan try to put acap on yourself. So that growth mindset has really helped me,and I’m sure it’shelped Cam, because he’sa fantastic player.”

the ability to makeplays and have done it over an extended period of time to kind of showcase that. There’salot of conversations to be had about that.” Bain certainly doesn’tfit the Saints’ historical prototype, which leanstoward long, athleticedge rushers. But his track record at Miami—201/2 sacks in three years —indicates he satisfies Moore’srequirement of production. And given that New Orleanshas whiffed on some of their drafted pass rushers over the last five years, and considering last year’s scheme change, maybe Bain is worth the pick if he’sstill available. At the very least, the Saints have options.

Email Matthew Parasatmatt. paras@theadvocate.com

Jeff Duncan

ASSOCIATED

Notre Dame quarterback RileyLeonard is tackled by Ohio State safety Caleb Downs during the CollegeFootball Playoff national championship game on Jan.20, 2025, in Atlanta.

Mendoza

Jordan

ences on him.

BY RODWALKER Staff writer

Jeremiah Fears wasa

1-year-old in diapers when DeAndre Jordan was drafted.

So it’sunderstandable why the Pelicans rookie guard refers to his veteran teammate as “Unc.” Jordan, who turns 38 in July, is almost twice as old as the 19-year-old Fears.

With Jordan’sage and 18 yearsofNBA experience come aton of wisdom. It’s why you won’tfind many players who have played in just12games this season who have made abigger impression on their team than Jordan.

HispresenceinNew Orleanshas been worth far more than his4.4 points per game average.

“It takes avillage to do this,”Pelicansinterimcoach JamesBorrego. “There are so many people that go into an NBA season to make it work. To see thegrowth of our young team, DeAndre had amassive impact on that. He brought professionalism every day.Avoice every day.A respect for every drill, every practice and every moment together.”

Jordan’spresence didn’t leadtomore wins. The Pelicans have won just 26 games heading into Sunday’sseason finale at the MinnesotaTimberwolves. They’llmiss theplayoffs for asecond straight year

The team may not be any betterthan it was before Jordan’s arrival,but the young playersare better because of it.

“He’sthe big brother,” rookie Micah Peavy said. “Offthe court, he helps you alot. He’s been in theleague along time, so he’ssomeone Igoand talk to about anything.Not just basketball. Life. Investments. Anything. He’sbeen in this thing along time.” Jordan, the ultimate pro, is grooming playerstobe pros as well Earlier in the season, rookie DerikQueen was sitting down for apostgame interview after recording atripledouble. Jordan told Queen to stand up while talking to the media. Queen obliged. Jordan doesn’tjust preach professionalism to the rookies. Hewas recently seen scolding Herb Jones after Jones got acostly technicalfoul late in agame. He

makes sure everyone is accountable.

“I just always wanted to encourage my teammates,” Jordan said. “Weare an extension of each other.The better they are, the better we are as ateam. It’sstill acompetition at the endof theday because you’re playing for shots and minutes andcontractsand all that stuff. That is abig deal. But it’salsoaloveofthe game andwanting somebodyelse to succeed. When we win, everybody wins.”

Jordan’sgoodwill hasn’t gone unnoticed. He is one of 12 finalists for the NBA Teammate of theYear Award. He’s been nominated for the award in pastyears.

“I guess that means people like me,”Jordan said. Then he laughedand pointedtowardFearsashe walkedby.

“It’satough job dealing witha 19-year-old,” Jordan said.

But Jordan admitsthere is aplussidetohaving teammatesalmost halfofhis age.

“Theykeep me young, so Iappreciate those guys, Jordan said. “As much as I’mdoing for them, theydo alot for me, too.”

That includes keeping Jordan up to date on music. Beforethis season, he wasn’ttoo familiar with rapper NBA YoungBoy.Now he knows all about the music of the rapper from Baton Rouge.

Jordan understands the importance of having a veteran likehimself in the locker room.

“It’shuge,” he said.“The league is only getting younger.When Icame in theleague,itwas an older league back then. Now it’s getting youngerand younger,soIthink it’sgood to have guys around who can help keep thelocker room in good spiritsand keep that old-school,hard-nose-tough mentality with the guys and helpthem understand the ways of the league thatthey don’t knowyet ” Jordancredits theveteranshehad forshowinghim the way.Marcus Camby was oneofthe best mentors forJordan. He also lists guys such as Baron Davis, Chauncey Billups,Grant Hill, Zach Randolph and Chris Paulaspositive influ-

“I listenedtoalot of things that my vets said, and Ikinda took things for my growth and my mindset and made it my own,” Jordan said.

Theplayers aren’t the only ones Jordan has inspired this season. His coach has felt it,too.

“I show up every day saying Iwant to be better because of thatguy,” Borrego said.“To me, that’swhat leadership is about. Where I’m at, wherever lifetakes me over the next 20 years, I hope DeAndre is apart of it in some degree.” Jordan isn’tsure how muchlonger he’ll play.He said he’staking it one year at atime.

Is coaching in his future?

“I don’twanttoget gray hair just yet,” he said.“I have jet black hair up here. So we’ll see. It’s humbling and cool that I’ve been around this long.”

He’sbeen around so long thatsome of hisyounger teammatesremember being kids watching Jordan throwdownall those dunks whenheplayed with the Lob City version of theLos Angeles Clippers. Some even played as Jordan on their 2K video games.

That’sback when Jordan wasone of the league’smost dominant bigmen. He made three All-NBA teamsand ledthe leagueinrebounding twice. He can still jump out of the gym, as he showed in afew games he’s played this season.

But he’smaking abigger splash now below the rim. He wants to see the guys who call him “Unc” have the same success he had.

“I always tell themthatI want to come back andwatch them play and watch them have All-Star seasons,” Jordan said. “I wanttosee their growth so they can give it back to thenext generation.”

Coming into the season, Borregohad no cluethat Jordanwould play such a key role this season.

“I could give you alist of guys in theleague that are looked at as potential veteransthatyou wantatthe endofyourbench,” Borrego said. “Those are hard to find. There aren’t alot of them out there. Ididn’thave DeAndre on that list. The leader,the man,the father,the professional he is. Ididn’tknow that. He’stouched every part of ourprogram.”

UNSETTLEDSUNDAY

Finalday of

BY TIM REYNOLDS AP basketball writer

Sundayisthe finalday of theNBA regular season, and here’safull listing of all theplayoff and postseason matchups that have been decided.

None.

There are 10 teams locked intospecific seedsinthe Easternand WesternConferences,there are 10 other teams that know theirseasons will end Sunday and 10 more still have some level of uncertainty going intothe final day of thesix-month grind that precedes the NBA postseason.

By theend of Sunday,four first-round

—those st end —will the firstf nament m take place Wednesday

“We’re jus in this situ lanta coac whoseHawks bound —b if they’ll No. 6seed they obvious their first either “Whoever to be really said. “It’s hard figurethat that certai playus. what’sgoing “It’shard these games on. Wherever it falls.”

No team Sunday to Thereare nated from tention who 82 is the end “But for teams, there game, either this coming playoffs weekend.

That doesn’ 20 teams all play for Sunday seeds tog cases,ateam tially mani side of the self out If San Antonio ver,for ex would assure of nothav homa City untilthe ence finals ANuggets mean LeBron the LosA provided th Sunday —w theWest’sN “I’m su wantstop lesLakers said.“Le there —e to play us. ably team sition whe looking forw second-ro well.

Brooklyn, on.

statistical decided, barhematically of all-time Sunday Doncic of per game) something lahoma City’s Alexander on Sunday Nikola uggets(12.9 win, unless like New thony Towns rebounds (10.9per unless someDetroit’s mgetting at Sunday s: Victor the Spurs will win, unappens like sChet Holtleast 85 So, yes, it’s oseraces ) lay Sunday meaning he’ll 65-game ligibility, play Sunber. That ethe NBA andassist be inelitheballots All-NBA other major

hthe three set: Washrst, with ooklynsecst in some se three best odds fwinning next month’s can’tfinish he lottery ramento ft-lottery es on SuntheJazz, emselves hat would in the top

Head Coach JayJohnson LSUBaseball

MASTERS

McIlroy’s73 giveschasers newlife

BY DAVE SKRETTA AP sportswriter

AUGUSTA, Ga. Rory McIlroy never seems to make anything easy at the Masters.

Year afteryear, formorethan adecade, the Northern Irishman threw away chances at completing the career grand slam. And when he finally accomplished the feat last year,McIlroy did it only after recovering from aball put in thewater on thebacknineand a bogey at the 18th hole in regulation, then beating Justin Rose in a playoff for the green jacket In other words, that record36hole lead of six that McIlroycarried into the third round Saturday? It meant nothing. And nothing is exactly what it was shortly after he made the turn.

McIlroy’sroller-coaster round included three bogeys, four birdies and adouble-bogey for a73, which dropped him to 11 under for the tournament. More importantly,hot rounds by just about everyone else on the leaderboard put the pressure on,and Cameron Young’sthirdround 65 puthim at 11 under as well, leaving McIlroy paired with him for the final round Sunday

“You know,there’salot of guys in with achance tomorrow,” McIlory said. “I’m still tied for the best score going into tomorrow,so Ican’tforget that, butI do know I’m going to have to be better if Iwant to have achance towin.”

McIlroy and Young will have to worry about alot more than just each other

Former LSU star Sam Burns is one shot back, whileShane Lowry rode his second career Masters hole-in-one to a68that left him at 9under.Rose and Jason Day are another shot back, whileScottie Scheffler’sroundof65put him at 7under and in the hunt for athird greenjacket.

“There’scertainlynolead that’s safe out here,” Young said, “but at

the same time, Rory loves it here, and he’sobviouslyplayingsome great golf. Idon’tthink anybody wouldhavebeen surprised if he went out there and shot 65 today

It’sone of those things whereif he does open the door,you have to take advantage of it.”

McIlroy tried totake all of the drama outofthis edition of the Masters when hepaired an opening 67 with a65on Friday

Butdramaisexactlywhathebrings to Augusta National every year

There was 2011, when McIlroy ledbythree while making the turn, pulledhis teeshotleft of No. 10 into the cabins, madetriple bogey and went on to shoot 80. There was 2016, when heplayed in the final round with Jordan Spiethbut shot 77 and finished tied for 10th.And there was 2018, when he was in the final pairing with Patrick Reed and

wound up finishing six shotsback.

Last year,itseemed that McIlroy had finally buried his Masters demons withhis playoff victory They surfaced yet againonSaturday It started with an inauspicious bogey at the first, but McIlroy recovered from that with acouple of birdies to reach 13 under.The real trouble began at the 11th, when he was standing in themiddle of the fairway with momentum on his side.His approach shot bounced in frontofthe green,took aleftturn and plopped into the pond, leaving quiet ripples across thewater McIlroy’s eventual bogey putt did a90-degree lip-out,and the double bogeysent him falling back to thefield.

“Yeah,” he saidlater,“this golf course has away of —you know, when you’re not quite feeling it,

you struggle.” McIlroy followed with another bogey at the par-3 12th, when he pulled his tee shot left of the green and was unable to save par.And when it looked as if he’dregained hiscomposure with back-to-backbirdies at Nos. 14 and15, he proceeded to pull his tee shot at the 17th intoastand of pine trees, leading to another bogey and dropping himinto atie with Young at 11 under That’swhere he ended up after awild third round on Saturday at AugustaNational. It’swhere he’ll start the final round on Sunday, too.

“I have to look at thepositives, even though there isn’tthat many to taketoday,” McIlroy said. “You know,Idid bounceback. Ihit some good shots coming in. But yeah, I’m in great position. Ijust know Ineed to be better tomorrow to have achance.”

Ga MASTERS PHOTOByKIERAN

Lowrymakeshistory with hole-in-one

BY SCOTT RABALAIS

Staff writer

AUGUSTA, Ga. Former Zurich Classic champion Shane Lowry made history on Saturday at the Masters.

TheIrishman becamethe first player to record asecond career hole-in-one in the tournament with an ace on the par-3 sixth hole.

“That’swild, isn’tit?” Lowry said. “Made one acouple of weeks ago in Houston. Youdon’teverexpect to make ahole-in-one. Ijust couldn’tbelieve it. Obviously you know,you’re out there, and you’re in the hunt at the Masters and you’re making hole-in-one, it’s pretty cool.” Lowry also made ahole-in-one in 2016 on No. 16.

Theace helped Lowryto a round of 4-under 68, vaultinghim into contention at 9-under 207, good for solo fourth place. Lowry is two strokes back of his good friend RoryMcIlroy and Cameron Young, and one behind former LSU AllAmerican Sam Burns

“It’sgetting real now,” Lowry said.

Lowry and McIlroy wonthe Zurich Classic of New Orleans together in 2024.

It’sthe seventh hole-in-one all-time at No. 6and first since Corey Conners made one there in

RABALAIS

Continued from page1C

University High golfer Patrick Reed, the2018 Masters champion —turned awhole slewofplayers from also-rans into contenders. Nine players arenow within five strokesofthe lead. That number includes worldNo. 1and two-time Masters winner Scottie Scheffler, who vaulted from nowhere to the most fear-inducing name on the leaderboard as he also shot 65 to get to 7under And then there was Burns, who picked his way through McIlroy’strail of debris to shoot arock-steady 4-under 68.He started with birdies at Nos. 1 and 2, reeled off eight straight pars, then made birdie at the calculus-tough 11th hole while

Greenjacketprotocol

2021. It’salsothe first acein the Masterson any hole since StewartCink made one in 2022 at No. 16.

Lowry andBurns will tee off at 1:39 p.m. in the second-to-last pairing, just ahead of McIlroy and Young (1:50 p.m.).

Lowry is going for hissecond majortitle after winning the 2019 British Open.

“It’sall about(Sunday),”hesaid. “We’ll see what everyone is made of.”

McIlroy opened the door witha watery double bogeyfrom the pond left of the green.

Somewhere in the great golfing beyond I’m sure Ben Hogan, with whom McIlroy shares a locker inthe champions locker room here, shook his head ruefully.You could practically hear Bantam Bensaying, “Never, ever go for the pin on 11, sonny.”

Burns added another birdie at thepar-5 13th, getting agood break by avoiding agreen-side bunkerwith his second shot, then getting up and down from ahollowleft of the green. He parred in the rest of the way to keep his major title hopesverymuch alive.

“Just stayed steady all day,” Burnstold the Golf Channel afterward. “Hit alot of quality shots. Today’saday if you play apoor round, you canplay yourself out of the golf tournament.”

If McIlroy wins, he will become just thefourth back-to-back Masterschampion. He would join Jack Nicklaus (1965-66), Nick Faldo (198990) and TigerWoods (2001-02).

Traditionally,the previous champion puts the green jacket on the winner.However,ifMcIlroy repeats, themost recent custom is forthe Masters chairman, in this case Fred Ridley,toput thejacket on him.That’s what happened with Faldo and Woods,while Nicklaus

After going 67-71 his first two days here, Burns did theopposite, settinghimself up for a chance at arguably thebiggest prize in golf.

“Any way youwanttoslice it,”CBS announcer JimNantz said, “this was abig dayfor SamBurns.”

If you follow golf and theLSU golfer,you know Burns has been this tantalizingly close in amajor before. He was one stroke back of Billy Horschel going into the 2024 BritishOpen at Royal Troon, then sank into aScottish peat bog withan80todrop to atie for 31st. Last year,heled the U.S. Open at Oakmontbut faded into atie for seventh with a78amid increasingly brutal playing and weather conditions.

Now,he’shere again, paired in thesecond-to-last group with 2024 Zurich Classic champion

slipped intothe green jacket by himself.

Goinglow

Saturday’sscoring averageof 70.630 was the lowest for athird round in Masters history,besting the70.769 from2019. It’s just the thirdtimethe third-roundaverage has been below 71.0.

Goinglower

Young started the tournament 4-over paronhis first 11 holes.

AfterSaturday’s65, tyingfor the best round of this year’sMasters, Young is 15 under in his last 43 holes.

Prizemoney increases

Prize money forthe Masters hasincreased for thefifthstraight year,tournament officials announced Saturday

This year’stotal purse is $22.5 million,with $4.5million going to the winner.In2025, it was$21 million in prize money with McIlroy getting$4.2 million forfirst place.

Thelastword

“I don’tget thesense I’ll be thefan favorite. Some fans that cheer for me have gotten louder over thelast year. It will still be lopsided, Ithink. Rory’skind of a world favorite in the golf world.” Cameron Young

(with McIlroy) Shane Lowry Burns doesn’thave to protect the lead.Hecan chase, potentially an advantage Burns can cash in on this time.

If he has any scar tissue heading into Masters Sunday,Burns chose to ignore it.

“I love it,” he said. “This is what we practice forand work so hard for,and Ithink kind of back to my point earlier,you know, I’m going to go out tomorrow and just trytoexecute. Ican’tcontrol anything anyone else does. Ican only control how Icarry myself, my attitude, andthose are the thingsI’m going to focus on.”

As he headed forthe first tee Saturday,Burns told aCBS reporter that these are the days you dream about.

For Burns, the dream is 18 holes away from becoming ajoyful reality

Patrick Reed’s caddieKessler Karainlines up aputt on the 11th green during the third round of the Masters on Saturday at Augusta National GolfClub. ParScores

No.11: White Dogwood

Par4,520 yards

Round 3average: 4.389

Rank: 1

Eagles: 0

Birdies: 5

Pars: 26

Bogeys: 20

Double bogeys or worse: 3

Howitplayed: Traditionally Augusta National’shardest hole,White Dogwood lived up to its fearsome reputation Saturday. It playedthe hardest again, helping turn this into awide-open MastersasRory McIlroyhit his second shot into its green-side pond and made double bogey.Meanwhile,former LSUstar SamBurns recordedone of theday’s five birdies there,helping keep him remain in contention.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTOByGERALD HERBERT

Rory McIlroy, of NorthernIreland, hits from the pinestrawonthe 17thhole during the third round of the Masters golf tournament at the AugustaNational Golf Club on SaturdayinAugusta,

PROVIDED PHOTO By ANDREWJOWETT

Shane Lowrytips his cap to the galleryafter his hole-in-one on the sixth hole during the third round of the Masters at AugustaNational Golf Club on Saturday.

Scott Rabalais

OUTDOORS

Four menhaden bills pass state committee

BY JOE MACALUSO

Contributing writer

CALENDAR

MONDAY RED STICK FLY FISHERS PROGRAM: 7 p.m., Bluebonnet Regional Library, 9200 Bluebonnet Blvd., Baton Rouge. Open to the public. Email Brian Roberts: roberts.brian84@ gmail.com. Website: rsff.org

WEDNESDAY FLIES & FLIGHTS: 7-9 p.m, Rally Cap Brewing, 11212 Pennywood Ave., Baton Rouge. Casual flytying. Open to public. Email Chris Williams: thefatfingeredflytyer@ gmail.com

THURSDAY ACADIANA FLY RODDERS PROGRAM: 6 p.m., Pack and Paddle, 601 E. Pinhook, Lafayette. Open to public. Email Darin Lee: at cbrsandcdc@gmail.com. Website: acadianaflyrodders.org

FRIDAY-SUNDAY

SPRING WARMWATER CATCH & EAT: Lakeview Lodge, Lake Concordia, Ferriday. Red Stick Fly Fishers event. Website: rsff.org

HUNTING SEASONS

TURKEY: Area A, through May 3; Area B: through April 26; Area C: through April 19.

AROUND THE CORNER

APRIL 21 — GULF COUNCIL PANEL

MEETING: 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., 4107 West Spruce St., Suite 200, Tampa, Florida. Ad hoc Red Snapper & Grouper-Tilefish IFQ Advisory panels. Top item: creating a pilot program for red grouper commercial quota pool. Public comment near end of meeting. Webinar available. Website: gulfcouncil.org

APRIL 21 — LAFAYETTE KAYAK FISHING CLUB MEETING: 6 p.m., Pack and Paddle, 601 E. Pinhook, Lafayette. Call (337) 232-5854. Website: www.lafayettekayakfishing.com.

Notebook

Four bills offered in the State House of Representatives to limit the take of menhaden off Louisiana’s coast passed through the House Natural Resources Committee last week and likely will face an uphill climb when the full house acts.

The four bills had widespread support among recreational, conservation and environmental organizations.

The first bill, HB 855, seeks to reduce the commercial operations’ bycatch of species like redfish, speckled trout and other important recreational and commercial species by limiting menhaden boats from operating in water less than 22 feet deep, a depth which a study showed the menhaden netting operation would lessen the impact on these species

A second bill, HB 757, would establish significantly higher fines on commercial menhaden operations for fishing inside state-regulated buffer zones.

A third bill, HB 872, requires menhaden boats to have automatic identification system tracking equipment on all boats including the smaller purse-seine boats.

And the fourth bill, HB 886, requires publication of the take — Public Harvest Data — of the menhaden operations, a move opposed by the two foreign-owned menhaden fishing companies operating off the state’s coast.

Caught

The opening weekend of the turkey season usually brings with it a share of violations, chief among them charges of hunting turkeys over bait.

And, there were four cited for taking a turkey from a baited area.

If you’re hunting turkeys, you must have basic hunting license, a turkey license and turkey tags, and the possession limit is one gobbler per day and two gobblers per season.

Hunting over bait carries a fine up to $500 and up to 90 days in jail.

More lane snapper

During its quarterly meeting last week, the Gulf Council used a survey by its Scientific and Statistical Committee to increase the annual catch limit for lane snapper by a little more than 200,000 pounds.

Lane snapper is combined with vermilion snapper for an aggregate of 20 fish per day per angler with an 8-inch minimum size for lane snapper and a 10-inch minimum size for keeper vermilion

snapper

The council also took final action in withholding the distribution of 408,000 pounds of red grouper for the commercial sector “in anticipation of a 3-year pilot program that would increase access to commercial red grouper quota by creating a quota pool.”

An offer

The Bass Fishing Hall of Fame, founded by Bass Pro Shops’ Johnny Morris, is offering a total of $65,000 in grants “to students and conservation groups to assist in research and fish habitat enhancement,” and extended the application deadline to April 20 for conservation organizations and to May 1 for student groups. If interested, go to this website: bassfishinghof.com/communityimpact

APRIL 21-23 — STATE COMMERCIAL FISHING LICENSES: 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m., LDWF office, Suite 438, 2045 Lakeshore Drive, New Orleans. New or renewal licenses & boat registrations. Also (closed Noon-1 p.m. all venues): 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m., April 28-30, 468 Texas Gulf Rd., Bourg; 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., May 4-5, 1025 Tom Watson Rd., Lake Charles; 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., May 6-7, 200 Dulles Dr., Lafayette. Call LDWF (225) 765-2898. APRIL 23 — ACADIANA BUGS & BREWS: 6 p.m., Pack

Swamp WMA, levee construction). EMAIL: jmacaluso@theadvocate. com

Fun times during Easter break

The Valenciano family is well-known for its ability to catch mangrove snapper, and St. George kindergartner Preston Valenciano continued that run when he landed his first ‘keeper’ mangrove while fishing with his dad, Eric, last week during the Easter break. ‘It means the future is in good hands now. And, yes, he ate his fish,’ grandfather Rudy Valenciano said.

BY NATE RYAN The Associated Press

After a rare weekend outside of a race car, Kyle Larson returns to Bristol Motor Speedway raring to go. The reigning NASCAR champion spent the first of only two off weeks in a 36-race schedule on a family vacation in his native California. While he enjoyed watching his kids race, the Hendrick Motorsports star who frequently moonlights away from the Cup Series on dirt tracks was ready for the break to end.

“I wish I could get more of it, but at the same time, I just want to race to get better,” said Larson, who is mired in a 31-race victory drought dating to May

“You take a week off, and it’s like, ‘Man, I just

want to keep going.’ “

He expects the rest of the field to be as eager to climb behind the wheel Sunday in Bristol, Tennessee — just as he said his rivals have been this year despite a new championship structure that penalizes aggression

For the first time in more than a decade, cumulative points totals will determine the 16-driver Chase field that will compete for the title, and the driver who scores the most points in the final 10 races will be crowned champion.

It’s a departure from the 2014-25 format that put a bigger reward on high-risk maneuvers because a win would qualify for the playoffs

Yet if drivers have raced conservatively this year, Larson said he hasn’t noticed.

“I feel like it’s just as aggressive as it’s been,” he said. “At most racetracks, it’s wild. With this car, you

can get into people. So I didn’t expect it to change a whole lot, but maybe it will as we get into The Chase.”

Brad Keselowski has been surprised by what he perceives as a lack of adaptation to The Chase.

“I’m actually quite shocked we haven’t seen more of a different style,” said Keselowski who won the 2012 title under a previous Chase format.

“I don’t think it’s really clicking yet for a good part of the field who just never grew up racing in a system like this They’re going to have to adapt or be replaced Sometimes you have to feel the pain first.”

Sunday’s 500-lap race at Bristol, a track known for its rough-andtumble racing, could provide a good indicator of whether drivers are choosing discretion and one statistical category indicates some might be this season.

There have been 42 yellow flags through seven races — the fewest cautions at this point in the season since 2018.

At Bristol Motor Speedway; Bristol, Tenn. Lap length: 0.53 miles (Car number in parentheses)

(12) Ryan Blaney, Ford, 127.064 mph. 2. (45)

(1) Ross Chastain, Chevrolet, 126.445.

(17) Chris Buescher, Ford, 126.320.

(5) Kyle Larson, Chevrolet, 126.303.

(2) Austin Cindric, Ford, 126.237.

(77) Carson Hocevar, Chevrolet, 126.229.

(11) Denny Hamlin, Toyota, 126.030.

(23) Bubba Wallace, Toyota, 125.980.

(7) Daniel Suárez, Chevrolet, 125.963.

“There’s a higher penalty for wrecking out,” driver Josh Berry said. “Subconsciously, there probably is more give and take because there should be. Your finishes are going to determine whether you make The Chase or not and have a chance to win the championship.” For Larson, though, the primary goal remains winning at a track where he has dominated.

“It’s

FILE PHOTOS By CHRIS GRANGER

Westbank Fishing employees pull in their nets as they catch menhaden along the Gulf Coast on July 1

Menhaden are used to create fish meal and oil for aquaculture, livestock and pet food. It’s also used as bait for lobsters, crawfish and crabs.

PROVIDED PHOTO

ALL-METROBASKETBALL

GIRLS PLAYER OF THEYEAR

STAFF FILEPHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

Zacharyguard AvaRaymond shootsa3-pointer over Neville guard ErynnFelton during theDivision Inonselect semifinals on March 5inHammond.Raymond,a McNeese State signee,made the game-winning shot in theBroncos’state title win against Slidell.

AVARAYMOND

ZACHARY, SENIOR • GUARD

Ava Raymond’stalent and poise can be summed up in one play. In her final high school game, the Broncos trailed Slidell by one point with 16.5 secondsleft The Broncos had possession, and Zachary’s coach Tami McClure put her trust in Raymond. “(Raymond) was the only one whowas going to getthe ball at the end,”McCluresaid.“I said,‘Go getit.

Raymond raced the lengthofthe courtand dribbled past adefender into the paint.She found space and made a floater in the lane to deliver the Broncos their second-straight state title.

The McNeese State signee dominated

all season, averaging 17.4 points, eight rebounds, three stealsand twoassists per game

Raymond was the lone returning starter on this year’s team. She took the team under herwing, gotitbacktoHammond and added somehardware in the process.

“She’sleftahugelegacy,”McClure said. “Everythingshe’s done for this program,I mean,justput us on the map.” Forher efforts, Raymond was named The Advocate’s All-Metro girlsbasketball Playerof theyear.

Jackson Reyes

BOYS PLAYER OF THEYEAR

on

GIRLS COACHOFTHE YEAR

TIMWALLER ST.JOSEPH’SACADEMY

When TimWaller became the St. Joseph’s girls basketball coach six years ago, his top prioritywas to fill the school’strophy case which up until that time had plenty of room. Thisseason, he started to do just that. The Redstickers wonthe in-season Newman tournament to put one trophy in the case Waller then coached St. Joseph’stoits first state title appearance after the Redstickers defeated Teurlings Catholic in the state semifinals.

Despite falling shortinthe state championship game,Waller noted howthe team’s21-7record and staterunner-up finish helped put St. Joseph’sbasketball on the map. For his efforts,Wallerwas named TheAdvocate’sAll-Metro girlsCoach of the year Jackson Reyes

GIRLS ALL-METRO TEAM

AVA

RAYMOND

Zachary, 5-10, Sr

17.4 points,8rebounds, 3steals, 2assists

RHIAN COMERY

Prairieville, 5-11, Sr

22.9 points,13.6 rebounds,2.5 steals

PRAI NELSON

Denham Springs, 5-9, Sr 19 points,9 rebounds, 2steals

ERYN BROWN Istrouma, 5-8, Sr.

30.7 points,12rebounds, 5.1steals, 2.8blocks

KENNEDY

ALDRIDGE

University High, 5-10, Jr

23.2 points, 7rebounds, 5.3 steals, 3.1 assists

ANNA RICHERSON ParkviewBaptist, 5-8, Sr 17 points,5.6 rebounds, 5.6assists

AURI RAY Madison Prep, 5-7, Sr 16 points,4 rebounds, 2assists

STELLA ALLISON

French Settlement,5-8, Sr

19.4 points,5.1 rebounds, 4assists,3.7 steals

CAROLINE WATSON

Episcopal,5-7, Sr. 28 points,5 assists, 4rebounds

JA’RIAN RILEY

Northeast, 5-0, 7thgrader 20 points, 10 steals, 6assists

GIRLS HONORABLE MENTION

SkylarWashington,

ASIA PATIN

SouthernLab,5-7, Sr

19.8 points,7.6 steals, 6.7rebounds, 4.8assists

JAZARAH BROWN

White Castle, 5-5, Fr

19.8 points,9rebounds, 5.5assists,4.5 steals

KORI WESLEY

SouthernLab,5-3, Jr

13.2 points,6.7 steals, 5.4rebounds

KARIAH DUNN

East Feliciana, 5-8, Jr. 17 points,7 assists, 5rebounds, 4steals

JA’MYAH BROWN

Ascension Catholic,5-5,Jr. 16 points,7steals, 6assists,5rebounds

Brusly forward BenRadford triestoget around Plaquemine defender Jarrius

30 at Brusly.Radford scored 17 points, grabbed 17 rebounds and blocked sevenshotsto lead Brusly pastWossmaninthe Division II nonselect state championshipgame.

BENRADFORD BRUSLY,SENIOR • FORWARD

Brusly forward Ben Radford spent the past twoyears on the wrong endof narrowplayoff semifinallosses.After the Panthers reachedthe state titlegamethis year,however,Radford made surehewouldn’t be denied.

Radford scored 17 points, nabbed17 rebounds and blocked sevenshots to help Bruslydefeat Wossman in the Division II nonselect state championship game. His efforts earned himoutstanding playerofthe game and brought Bruslyits firstbasketball state title in 42 years.

“It was just unbelievable,”coach KirbyLoupe said of the 6-foot-5 Radford’sperformance “Heisanabsolute monster.”

After the team graduatedone of itskey offensiveplayers, Radfordstepped up in averaging 15.6 points per game. More impressively, he averaged 14 rebounds and 6.3 blocks per game.

While Radford’srebounding and shotblocking are noteworthy,a keytoBrusly’s success wasRadford’sdevelopment in handling the ball.

“It’sthe wayhehandlesthe basketball and allows us to getinto someofour sets,” Loupe said.“It’sanabsolute cheat code.

For leading Brusly to a24-5 recordand state title,Radford wasnamed The Advocate’sAllMetro boys basketball Playerofthe year Jackson Reyes

BOYS COACHOFTHE YEAR JONMcCLINTON ZACHARY

The name JonMcClinton and winning have become synonymous. He coached Zacharyto its second straight state championship after the Broncos defeated Ruston 63-60 in the DivisionInonselect state title game.

The winmarked McClinton’sfourth statetitle in sixseasons coaching the Broncos. Zachary

IAN

EDMOND

Zachary, 6-1, Jr 19.7 points,3 steals 3assists,3rebounds

BEN RADFORD

Brusly,6-5, Sr

15.6 points,14rebounds, 6.3blocks

ELIJAH GARNER

Madison Prep, 6-3, Jr 18 points,8 rebounds, 5assists,2steals

AJ OLIVIER

Dunham,5-11, Sr 19.6 points,4 assists, 4rebounds

ELIJAH HAVEN

Dunham,6-5, Jr

14.4 points,6.5 rebounds, 5assists

finishedwith a33-4 recordalong with another District 4-5A title.Ina Class 5A loadedwith talent, McClinton continues to getthe best out of his squad each year For his efforts, McClinton wasnamed The Advocate’s All-Metro Coach of theyear. Jackson Reyes

JACE CONRAD Central, 6-2, Sr 16.8 points,7.5 rebounds 2.8assists

JEREMY WILLIAMS Denham Springs, 6-1, Jr 15 points,4.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists

JAKYRIS JENKINS Plaquemine, 6-1, Sr 21.3 points,4.5 rebounds

GENTRY JAMES

Port Allen, 5-10, Sr 27 points, 8assists, 5rebounds

KADEN IRWIN Parkview Baptist, 6-3, So 19 points,9 rebounds, 2assists,2steals

BOYS HONORABLE MENTION

Ethan Kimmie, Zachary; Jude Chamberlain, Catholic; DJ Schonberg,St.Amant;Micah Bryant, Brusly; JaxsonWilliams, University High; Da’Sean Golmond,Denham Springs; BrantleyCarney, Episcopal; Jordan Magee, Live Oak;TrevorRussell,Ascension Christian; Mike Daigre, CentralPrivate; Kamryn Schexnyder,

JORDAN

SCHARNETT

East Iberville, 6-1, So 15.4 points,6.4 rebounds

3.5assists,2.7 steals

DYLAN SPANSEL Ascension Christian, 5-11, Sr 20.4 points,7.6 rebounds, 2.8assists,2 steals

QUINTON DABNEY Donaldsonville, 6-1, Sr 21.5 points,7.5 rebounds, 3.2assists,2.7 steals

CHASE BURCHES Springfield, 6-1, Jr 19.4 points,6.5 rebounds 1.6steals, 1.5assists

DWAYNE MITCHELL East Ascension, 6-4, Sr 17 points, 4rebounds, 3steals, 2assists

Ascension Catholic; KingstonJarrell, Woodlawn

Asia Bell, Zachary; Ella LeFors, Parkview Baptist;HaileyHurst, UniversityHigh; Amari Lyons, Northeast; BraidyTrabeau, French Settlement; Kimani Coleman,East Feliciana;

Scotlandville; Mariah Scott, Woodlawn;NickaiyaMartin, Springfield; Ellie Johnson,Albany; Comora Davis, Plaquemine; Gabrielle Dodson, Madison Prep.

FILE PHOTOByAPRIL BUFFINGTON

Jones

Jan.

Catholic tops Zachary, wins district

BY WILLIAM WEATHERS Contributing writer

When Catholic High senior Mills Richardsonwasn’tcontrolling Zachary’soffense with his lethal rightarm, he exhibited cat-quick reflexes off themound to further confound the Broncos. Richardson fired athree-hit shutout in Saturday’s4-0 victory overZacharytocement theDistrict 4-5A championshipatJohn Herty Field. The Southeastern signee, who also plays shortstop, also made apair of nifty playsto foil bunt attempts in the fifth and seventh innings that secured the team’ssixth shutout.

“Wegrind every dayinpractice,” Richardson said. “That’s normal for us to make those kinds of plays.”

Two-time reigning Division I select state champion Catholic (29-4, 7-1 in 4-5A) wonits fourth consecutive district title and 36th in program history.The Bears’series sweep over Zachary (24-8, 5-3) was in part due to apitching staff that allowed one unearned run and three hits in 12 innings.

“I think our staff’s been our strong suit this year,” Catholic coach Brad Bass said.“Whether it’sbeen the starters or relievers and to add LucasLawrence back to that mix, there’s no question we got better.” Richardson (7-1) credited athree-pitch mix of fastball, curveball and change-up for his success.Heallowed three singles —two to leftfielder KamBailey —one walk and nine strikeouts.

Zacharydidn’thave multiple runners aboard until the fourth on singlesfrom Bailey, who later stole second, and Collin Walls. Richardson followed with astrikeout and fly ball to

Catholic High startingpitcher Mills Richardson, shownlast season duringagame against Central, shut out ZacharyonSaturday as Catholic wonthe District 4-5A title.

right. Braden Sanders was the loneBronco to reach base to start an inning, drawing awalk andstealing base in the sixth, but was thrown outatthird on a back pickoff attempt started by catcher Myles Auxt.

Zachary starter Madden McClure was locked in ascoreless dualwithRichardson until the top of the fourth

Right fielder Harrison Kidder, aUL football signee, led offwith asingle, moved to second on Richardson’ssacrifice bunt and took third on awild pitch.

McClure walked his first batter when Dekohta Jones drew afullcount pass and Jack Stokes sent a1-1 groundertoWalls at third that was ruled fair,enabling Kidder to score the game’sfirst run.

Zachary coachJacob Fisher arguedthe ballwas hit foul, resultinginthe umpiresconveningbut not overturning the call.

PREP REPORT

The Bears followed with apair of two-outruns on Hayes Segar’s RBI double to right off reliever Noah Sullivan and run-scoring single from Kooper Childs’infield single to the right side of the infield.

“You can’ttake anything away from Catholic, they’re agood ball club,”Fishersaid. “Thatone call is notthe deciding factor of the game. We didn’tswing it very well. Richardsonwas on. He challenged us with the fastball andwejust weren’t ready.”

Childs, who had two of his team’sseven hits, startedthe seventh with asingle andCatholic generated another run on a series of bunts with Jude Schneider’s safety squeeze, scoring pinch-runnerGrant Speer

“We’veworked hard for it all season,” Richardson said. “We deserve this.We’re amost deserving group of guys.”

Top-seeded Doucet says

BY JACKSON REYES Staff writer

St. Joseph’sAcademysenior Ava

Doucet andChapellejunior AddisonBelle weretiedthrough three frames in the girls’ statebowling singles championship.

Doucet looked for separation, and she found it in the form of five straight strikes from frames three to seven.

Shebowledseven total strikes andone spare to fend offBelle and win theindividual state title.

Doucet won with ascore of 222, while Belle bowled a216, on Friday at All-StarLanes in Baton Rouge.

Doucet attributed her success to hercoach, GarthRidge.The two talked aboutanything besides bowling between frames, keeping Doucet calm in the final.

“I really just gotina groove,” Doucet said. “I startedcalming down.”

Her ability to stay poised played arole in her staying focused when she prepared to bowland staying loose while watching Belle bowl.

“Bowling is such amental game,” she said. “Weconstantly get in our heads, and Iamdefinitely one of them.”

Whatadded to the pressurewas thesingles tournament’s format Bowlers who qualify for the state tournament bowl four games, and the sixhighest scores qualify for the finals.

Thetop seedgets abye to the state title match, and the lower seeds bowlthrough abracket. The bottom three seeds bowlfirst, thenthe winner bowls against the second and third-seeded bowlers. Finally,the winner of that match takesonthe topseed fora state title.

Doucet was the top-seeded bowler andwaited patientlyasother athletes bowled for achance to face her. She watched this format forthe past twoyears as aspectator,but competing in it wasadifferent beast.

“Knowing any of these six girls are some of the best bowlers in the state,” Doucet said. “I had to remind myself Ialso deserve to be here. Even if it was my first time, Ihad fought this far, andI hadto keep pushing.”

She said the state title was the perfect ending to her high school career

“For thelastthreeyears, Ifeel like I’ve been working at something,” she said. “Knowing I’m ending out my career at SJA with awin, it’sjust really big.”

Doucet will now bowlatthe University of Alabama-Birmingham, joining formerSt. Joseph’steammateJordan Wingerter

She wasalso proud of whather teamaccomplished. TheRedstickers wrapped up asemifinal finish on Wednesday in the girls’ state team championships. She also credited her team forhelping build her confidence in bowling.

“This whole team, it’smeant the world to me,” Doucet said. “I just had someone to talk to. They have been everything forme.”

STAFF FILE PHOTO By HILARySCHEINUK

ABY DOUG MacCASH| Staff writer

flurry of blood orange-colored peacock plumes erupted onto Dumaine Street at duskonSt. Joseph’sDay,asBlackMasking Indian Big Chief Demond Melancon set outtoseek rivals. His feathered suit bore dizzyingly meticulous bead mosaics that took months to create. His eyes shone from beneathhis headdress as if he were amedieval knight peering through thevisor of ahelmet.

BY ROBIN MILLER Staff writer

As Melancon strode swiftly forward, aphalanx of photographers trotted around him. Someone in his entourage chanted “Somebody’sgot to sew,sew,sew.” Truer wordscouldn’thave been spoken. Melancon is amaster of the art of Mardi Gras Indian suit-making, a medium based on needle and thread. His reputation is going global now as he prepares to display ceremonial garments at the Venice Biennale international art exhibition, an honor akin to winning an Oscar ä See MELANCON, page 4D

Though

“This

LAMISSTENN District of Kiwanis

The Division 8E and 8W Past District Officers of the Louisiana-Mississippi-W. Tennessee District of Kiwanis International met at Drusilla Seafood Restaurant on April 1. Seated are, from left, Past Lt. Govs. Phil Divincenti, Donna Leggett, Morris Welch and Morgan Watson; standing, PDO President Bob Blanchard, Retired Executive Director Charlie Ford, Past International Trustee Gary Graham and Past Lt Gov. Chuck Morgan.

Chapter W, P.E.O.

Members of Chapter W, P.E.O met March 10 at the home of Barbara Long to elect officers for the next year Shown are, from left, June Fitzgerald, guard; Marion Forbes, recording secretary; Ann Smith, corresponding secretary; Barbara Waugh, vice president; Pat Aucoin, treasurer; and Ann Sharkey president. Not shown is Diane Sistrunk, chaplain.

Park Forest Elementary School

Sashika Baunchand and Sarah Holliday James visited Park Forest Elementary School to discuss the importance of good hygiene and safety products with approximately 40 students on March 20. Shown are, Baunchand, left, and James.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Craft supply exchange to be held April 18

Adult patrons are invited to Greenwell Springs Regional Library 10 a.m. to noon April 18 at 11300 Greenwell Springs Road, Baton Rouge, for a “Craft Exchange Shindig.” Bring excess craft/journaling supplies and browse supplies from other crafters.

Visit the ephemera box station where patrons can utilize newly swapped supplies to decorate personalized ephemera boxes during the event.

For more information, call the GSR Circulation department at (225) 2744440.

Radiant Women’s Ministry to host brunch

The St. James Baptist Church is launching an inaugural women’s brunch entitled “Radiant Women’s Ministry” at 11 a.m. April 25 at 1105 N. 44th St., Baton Rouge. The guest facilitator will be author and speaker Sister Netra Ford of the Lighthouse Church of Houston, Texas. The brunch is free. For more information, call (337) 215-5353.

Food Bank expands access via mobile market

A new “Groceries on the Geaux” Mobile Market program is set to launch in summer 2026 for families and seniors throughout the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank’s 11-parish service area to have reliable access to fresh food.

Groceries on the Geaux is made possible through a $1.797 million charitable gift from Blue Point Number One, LLC, covering the purchase of the delivery vehicle and three years of operating costs.

The operation will make regular stops on the west bank of Ascension Parish, where CF Industries and its partners are constructing the Blue Point Complex, as well as where CF Industries’ Donaldsonville Complex is located.

The grocery-style mobile market will provide an opportunity for shoppers to purchase fresh produce, proteins and shelf-stable goods at affordable prices, and in some cases at no cost.

By traveling directly to communities in need, Groceries on the Geaux will provide a store-like shopping experi-

ence that makes access to food easier for families, seniors and individuals without reliable transportation, limited mobility or nearby grocery options.

LEH grant opportunities will be ending soon

The Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities currently has several grant opportunities open to bring programming to local communities. Many close this month, so this is the last chance to apply For more information, visit leh. org/grants.

n Prime Time Reading Providers partners with Louisiana-based organizations dedicated to serving humanities-based learning and family bonding through literature Applicants for Prime Time Family and Prime Time Preschool grants are accepted for fall and spring sessions. They carefully review each submission and notify applicants by email of funding or denial within four weeks of the application deadline The deadline for the fall session is April 15.

n Rebirth Grants support programs and initiatives focused on the humanities. Eligible projects include public humanities programs that involve audience participation and discussion; documentary photography, podcast and radio projects; humanities-based festivals and exhibition development; digital humanities projects including websites and online documentation of Louisiana history and culture; speaker series; assistance with publication projects; and humanities-based educational initiatives. The deadline is April 16

PROVIDED PHOTO

PROVIDED PHOTO

BY SUSAN MONTOYABRYAN Associated Press

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. If you’ve ever planned to motor west andtake the highway that’sthe best, this might be time: Route 66 turns100 this year The Mother Road, as authorJohn Steinbeck dubbed it, hasevolved over theyears from an escape for poor farmers fleeing the devastating dust storms of the 1930s to perhaps the quintessentialAmerican road trip that’sstill delivering kicks.

Although there have been faster and more direct routes between thenation’ssecond- andthirdlargest citiesfor some time, Route 66’sneon still burns brightly and its vintage signs beckon travelers to restored motor lodges, classic dinersand roadside attractions.

Each stop turns the wheels of theimagination, leaving travelers to contemplate what life was like for the people and communities that have made the road humover the years.

Illinois Chicago has long been one of the country’seconomic engines, with access to international waters and railroads that linked all corners of the country.Inthe 1920s, Oklahoma businessman Cyrus Avery, known as the Father of Route 66, knew it wouldn’tbelongbefore automobiles would dominate the transportation landscape,and the Windy City would be the perfect place to start the journey he envisioned.

Amember of the federal highway board appointed to map the U.S. highwaysystem, Avery opted to go with the number 66. He knew those double digits were ripe for marketing and could be seared into the minds of motorists. For some travelers, thejourney is fueled more by the food than the scenery,and there’splenty to choose from —slices of homemade

TRAVEL TROUBLESHOOTER

By ChristopherElliott

TRAVEL

pie,thickshakes, cheeseburgers andanassortment of fried delights.

Missouri

Route 66 has its share of twists andturns, and it’snosurprise that ahighway famous for itsquirky roadside attractions would cross thenation’smost famous river on one of themorepeculiar bridges known to modern engineering.

As the road nears St. Louis, the mile-long Chain of Rocks Bridge hovers morethan 60 feet above the Mississippi River Engineers eventually built a straighter,higher-speed option, anda poor resalemarket spared theoriginal bridge from the scrap heap. Todayit’sreserved for pedestriansand cyclists.

Amedian in Missouri is home to St.Robert Route 66 Neon Park, whichfeatures orphaned neon signs thatoncebeckoned travelerstostop at certain sites and businessesalong the highway.Often handcrafted, they weren’tonly markersfor motels, cafes and gas stations, but were also folk art and symbols of local culture.

Kansas

The SunflowerState hosts only ashort stretch of Route 66, but it packsapunch with the Kan-OTexService Station in Galena. A classicexample of roadsidefare,

thestation served as inspiration for theanimated 2006 Pixar film “Cars.”

Director John Lasseter and his crew took road trips along the route, digging intohistory and looking for elements that could bringthe projecttolife. It was in Galena wherethey spotted the old boom truckthat served as the basis for thecharacter TowMater The plot wasn’tfar off, as so many once bustling towns—like the fictional Radiator Springs —nearly faded awayafter beingbypassed by an interstate.

Oklahoma

There was areal danger for some whotraveled the road, particularlyBlack motoristspassing throughinhospitable and segregated areas during theJim Crow era. The Green Book —aguide first publishedin1936 by Victor Hugo Green —listed hotels, restaurants and gas stations that would serve Black customers. The Threatt Filling Station near Luther wasn’tlisted in The Green Book, but it was asafe haven —not only for getting fuel, but for barbecue and baseball. Listedonthe National Register of Historic Places, it was the only known Black-owned and operated gas station along Route 66. Route 66 is littered with aban-

doned buildings andfaded signs, butone example of the highway’s resilientspirit stands tall in Sapulpa, near Tulsa. Therestored Tee PeeDrive-InTheater offers a step back into the 1950s, when the booming car culture helped spawn thousands of drive-in theaters nationwide.

Texas

Blinkand youmight missit, but astopatthe Cadillac Ranchin Amarillo is amust forany Route 66 journey.For decades, visitors have been spray-painting the 10 vintage Cadillacs at the site and mulling the transitory nature of time as BruceSpringsteen did in his 1980 song of the samename.

It’s not aranch, but rather apublic artinstallation created in 1974 by the art and architecture collective Ant Farm. At first, the cars which were half-buriedfront-down at a60-degree angle —wereused for targetpractice. Others would scratchtheir initials into the metal. Thespray painting started later Arrive in Adrian and you’re halfway through your trip. Steps from a whiteline marking the midpoint of Route66isthe Midway Cafe, where the “ugly pies” are anything but.

NewMexico

More than halfofRoute 66 cuts through sovereign Native American lands, oftentracing routes used by tribes long before settlers arrived. Much like therailroadin the1800s, the highway opened the door to anew era of commerce, but it alsofueledstereotypesabout cultures along the way.

Thereare still faded andcrumbling references to teepees and feathered headdresses at some stops along thehistorichighway.

The symbolswereeasily appropriated for marketing by roadside vendorsbut weren’t indicative of theseparate anddistinctNative American cultures in the area.

Today, tribes are telling their ownstories andshowcasing their creations, whether it be pottery, fruit pies or poems.

Albuquerque boasts thelongest intact urban stretch of Route 66.

Those 18 miles pass through several neighborhoodsand business

100

districts, from historic Old Town to Nob Hill.

Arizona

MusicianJacksonBrowne was taking hisown road tripinthe early 1970s when his car left him strandedinWinslow.The experience inspired the lyrics to the Eagles’ hit “Take it Easy.” But it’s certainlynot the onlysongthat is a must-have foraRoute 66 playlist. Bobby Troup created aclassic American road anthem in the 1940s with “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66.” Nat King Cole, Chuck Berry,The Rolling Stones and Depeche Mode carried it through the decades, each covering the song with their own flare.

While standing on acorner in Winslow,don’tbesurprisedif someone saunters up with aguitar andstarts strumming favorites from their own road trip playlist. California

Once adesertoasis,Roy’s Motel &CaféinAmboy is aquintessential Route 66 landmark. Thetowering neon sign is one of the most photographed spots along the road. Inside, foreign currency left by international visitors lines one wall. Across the street, aclothing post decorated withshoes, shirts and other items juts up from the desert floor

This stretch of thehighway through the Mojave Desert offers aspecial kind of solitude. The pavement gets rough in spots and the landscape takes charge, showing offJoshua trees,wide-open spaces andthe remnants of ancient volcanic activity Muchofthe area is undeveloped, meaning it looks alot like it would have when Route66was commissioned in 1926. After making it through oftcongestedLos Angeles, the iconic Santa Monica Pier marks the end of the line, andit’snothing short of aperpetual party with asteady stream of spectators and performers. Although many stretches of Route 66 have lapsed into decay, thebreathtaking views of thePacific Ocean are areminderofthe pursuits made possible by the road over the last century

Midflightaccidentcrackstraveler’scellphone screen

property.

On arecent flight from Copenhagento

Newark on SAS Scandinavian Airlines, Iwas in the aisle seat of an exit row.The passenger in the middle seat had aheavy bag with awater bottle in her lap, which a flight attendant stowed overhead before departure. Midway through the flight, another flight attendant opened the overhead bin and the bag fell, banging my wrist and cracking my phone screen

Christopher Elliott

Isubmitted acompensation request to SAS, but it wasdenied twice. Ithen appealed to avice president at SAS, but never received areply.I wanted SAS to payfor my phone repair.— ChristopherKennedy,Astoria, New York SAS should have handled this

quicklyand by thebook. Abag falls out of an overhead bin and damagesyour phone —that’s an onboard accident, and you have astrongcase under international law.Yourdetailed paper trail, photos and politeescalation to acompanyexecutive should all work in your favor

TheMontreal Convention, whichgovernsinternational air travel, makes airlines liable for damage caused by onboard accidents. Afallingbag hitting a passenger fitsthat definition. While airlines often argue over what constitutes liability,the convention is clear that carriers are responsible for incidents that occurduringaflight if they result in injury or damage to passenger

SAS also didn’tfollow its internal policies.The airline has long emphasized its commitmentto customer service. Its code of conduct notes that “every promise made to acustomer is acommitment thatwemustdeliver on in all situations.”This principle underscores SAS’sdedication to providing quality service and addressing customer concerns promptly.And in your case, it fell short Usually,abrief, polite email to an SAS executive will get theprocess moving. Butinyour case, it looks like it didn’t. If you find yourself in asimilar situation, always document everything. Take photos of the damage, get names of crew mem-

bers who assist, andfile aclaim as soon as possible. Airlines are far morelikely to respond when they see clear,detailed evidence and a calm request forcompensation.

This case is areminder that even when airlines initially deny aclaim, persistence —and asolid understanding of your rights can pay off.

Of course, the best way to avoid adamage claim during aflight is to see asituation like this and take steps toprevent it. If someone is trying to stuff abag into the overhead compartment, speak up. I’ve seen overhead compartments pop open in flight,and you definitely don’twant aheavy bag falling on your head.Ifthat happened, the repair billwould be morethan

$400, and the damage could last a lifetime. Fortunately,you weren’t injured by the falling bag. My team contacted SAS on your behalf to revisit your claim. Within days, the airline had achange of heart.

“Wehave reviewed the matter further and have decided to proceed with adirect bank transfer as agesture of goodwill in recognition of the inconvenience you experienced,” arepresentative told you. SAS sent you $400 to pay foraphone repair

Christopher Elliott is the founder of Elliott Advocacy,anonprofit organization that helps consumers solve their problems. Email him at chris@elliott.org.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JEFF ROBERSON

Route 66 Neon Park is located inside GeorgeM.Reed Roadside Park along historic Route66inSt. Robert, Mo.

As best as Big Chief Melancon knows, he’s the first Black Masking Indian to be included in the 131-year-old, careermaking art extravaganza that opens in May. In New Orleans, Mardi Gras Indian suits are iconic, right up there with streetcars, jazz trumpets and black and gold fleurs-de-lis, but anywhere north of Lakeshore Drive, they’re mostly a mystery. Five thousand miles away in Italy, Melancon will be carrying the flag for his city and its peculiar culture.

Just like most of the people of Venice, Demond Melancon 47, grew up near a canal. In his case, it was the Industrial Canal. As a kid, the future art star lived on Kentucky Street in the Upper 9th Ward not far from the St. Claude Avenue bridge, which was a pathway for roving Black Masking Indian tribes on Mardi Gras morning.

The gaggles of maskers that crossed the rusty trestle were searching for other maskers, to engage in ritual contests for bragging rights as the makers of the most impressive suits. Young Melancon was wide-eyed at the spectacle.

“They were the gods of the city,” he said.

“I DON’T SELL OUT. ... YOU HAVE TO MOVE ON TO

EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS.”

— BIG CHIEF DEMOND MELANCON

Masking culture

How exactly the Indian masking custom came about is up for conjecture

Everybody in New Orleans costumes for Carnival, but Black Indian masking is much more profound It reflects a union of Indigenous American and African heritages that arose out of subjugation in a European-dominated society.

In the Jim Crow era, Black and Indigenous people weren’t welcome in much of the Mardi Gras celebrations, explained Dominique Dilling-Francis, director of the Backstreet Cultural Museum, a trove of Black masking art and artifacts “They had to create their own Carnival in their own neighborhoods.” That’s where the blend of Native, African and Haitian Carnival cultures arose.

That’s why you don’t call them costumes, Dilling-Francis explained, you call them suits. “Suits can’t be duplicated, like costumes,” she said “They’re hand-crafted, hand-designed, and every suit tells a story.”

“For some,” Dilling-Francis said, “sewing a suit is something you’re taught. But for some, they wake up knowing how to do this.” They have to “have an eye for it they have to have a vision,” she said. Melancon seems to be fueled by his own innate skill and the mentoring of elders. A spiritual calling

Melancon might never have become part of the masking culture if it weren’t for one day on the Colton junior high school playground, when he heard three fellow students practicing Mardi Gras Indian chants, the marching music of the tribes. It was March 19, St. Joseph’s Day, 1992, Melancon said, and Jeramie, Emanuel and Marquis had plans for a big time.

St. Joseph’s night is the “second coming of Mardi Gras” for the Indians, another chance to show off their suits and engage in street rituals. When the school bell rang, the boys went under the fence and headed home, so they’d have time to suit up and hit the streets with their group, the renowned Yellow Pocahontas Melancon tagged along to watch Melancon was astonished to see his tween pals had made suits of their own. Jeramie had a snake suit, and Emanual a blue peacock, Melancon remembered. When Melancon got home that night, far later than expected, “I got my butt whipped,” he said. He’d also received “a spiritual calling” to be an Indian.

That’s the thing about the Black Masking Indians, there’s something transcendent about the practice. It’s a second identity Maskers customarily sew a new suit each year In days gone by, some

burned their suits — which, early on, might have been decorated with bottle caps and fish scales — to guarantee no repetition. In the course of sewing, Indians inevitably, accidentally prick their fingers and often actually bleed into their suits. It’s a custom that’s survived racism, segregation, poverty and hurricanes.

Melancon, who is tirelessly assisted by his wife, Alicia, said he views the endless hours devoted to sewing a suit as a sort of meditation that brings him close to past generations of maskers.

“They come down from the heavens and come in my body, and I do what I do,” he said. “It’s the same feeling you get in church when you’re sitting with great grandma.”

Spy Boy extraordinaire

The late master suit-maker Ferdinand Bigard Sr of the Cheyenne Hunters tribe helped teenage Melancon sew his first beaded patch — a butterfly In no time, he was sewing his own suits and serving as a Spy Boy with the 9th Ward Seminoles. Spy Boys are the scouts of their tribes, chasing through the streets ahead of the Big Chief, hunting for competing gangs, as they are sometimes known. Spy Boys are the first to confront other maskers, bragging and chiding opponents before the Big Chiefs collide. In years gone by, Mardi Gras Indian confrontations could be violent. Happily they’re now confined to stylized oneupmanship. Seminoles Big Chief Keith “Keitoe” Jones said that, despite his youth, Melancon was the best Spy Boy ever “I never seen nobody play the game like this kid,” Jones said. “He was cold. He was the baddest Spy Boy in the city There wasn’t nobody could mess with him.”

Jones explained that Spy Boys are a tribe’s advance guard. Melancon, he said, “was so feisty that he’d meet you” in a ritual standoff. “But if you wasn’t paying attention, he’d run around you and get to your Chief and talk trash,” getting the ritual disrespect rolling early “He won’t bow down to nobody,” Jones said, laughing. “The way he approached a gang, some of them thought he was crazy.”

Melancon was certainly the best Spy Boy in town and became one of the best beaders as well, in Jones’s estimation. Jones’s artistic advice to Melancon was to skip the bigger beads, and concentrate on the number 10 and 11 beads — 2 to 2.5 millimeter in diameter The work may be more time-consuming and tedious, but it produced subtler, more detailed mosaics.

“You win with that,” Jones said, referring to the competition between craftsmen.

Big Chief Jones, whose 2024 suit titled “The Journey” was a tour de force of beyond-exacting bead work, said that these days Melancon “might even be better than me.”

Jones has known Melancon since 1994. He said that in the early days, they were more-or-less family, especially in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

“I love him,” Jones said. “I’m proud of the person he grew up to be.” With Jones’s blessing, in 2013, Melancon formed his own tribe the Young Seminole Hunters, and became a Big Chief himself.

An expensive endeavor

In his mid-20s, Melancon was a bona fide Mardi Gras Indian. He was also a construction worker, specializing in pouring concrete for $17 per hour It was an income that might pay the bills, but there was never going to be much left over Creating Indians suits, which can cost thousands in materials, became a crisis. After Katrina, Melancon found himself living in the flood-ruined Lower 9th Ward, where busloads of disaster tourists passed by, gawking at the devastation. He was attempting to buy the

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

Demond Melancon said he views the endless hours devoted to sewing a suit as a sort of meditation.

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

Artwork and inspiration covers the walls of Big Chief Demond Melancon’s workspace at his home in New Orleans

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

Demond Melancon was first helped by the late master suit-maker Ferdinand Bigard Sr of the Cheyenne Hunters tribe. Melancon became one of the best beaders after years spent as a Spy Boy for the 9th Ward Seminoles.

MELANCON

Continued from page 4D

modest owner-financed home where he lived, but there came a point when Melancon had to decide whether to pay the mortgage or buy colored feathers and beads. The feathers and beads won out and Melancon got kicked out.

It occurred to Melancon that though he might love the Indian life, the arithmetic didn’t make sense. “I said, ‘I’m taking food off of my table to mask,” he recalls. There’s even a traditional Indian chant that addresses the topic, he said. “I masked that morning, and I was right, but I had no money to pay my lights.”

‘Man, you’re an artist’

During that time of financial reckoning, Melancon’s pal, Henry Lipkis a 22-year-old Californian artist who was part of the wave of post-Katrina transplants — offered a piece of life-changing advice. As Melancon recalls, “Henry said, ‘Man, you’re an artist.’”

It was a “Wizard of Oz” moment. Melancon suddenly realized that, though he’d never called himself an artist, what he’d been doing wasn’t that much different from what conventional painters and sculptors did.

“I was painting with beads,” he said. Lipkis pointed out that the beaded patches Melancon produced for suits would probably be quite collectible, if he offered them for sale. To prove his point, Lipkis took photos of the mini mosaics around Melancon’s studio with his cellphone and shared them with friends. Instantly, Melancon recalls “Henry’s phone blows up.”

“He was making the most incredible artwork I’d ever seen with my own two eyes,” Lipkis said of the moment, “but he was deeply in the struggle at the same time. So, I reached out to anyone connected to money I told him, ‘Demond, you can crush this game.’”

Lipkis said that he was honored to draw the outline for a couple of Melancon’s beaded patches — Indian maskers often call on other artists to help visualize their concepts.

A whirlwind art career

At first, Melancon produced notebook paper-sized patches, then larger pieces, which he sold for hundreds of dollars. His portraits of New Orleans musicians such as Professor Longhair, Dr John, Allen Toussaint and honorary New Orleanian Elvis Costello were especially popular

He sold works at a Congo Square fair and got invited to show in the Contemporary Crafts area at Jazz Fest in 2018, where he sold $30,000 in works in a weekend. Arthur Roger, the soft-spoken owner of New Orleans’ premier art gallery, appeared at Melancon’s Jazz Fest booth and offered to sell his work yearround on Julia Street

“I started off with the big dog,” Melancon said of his affiliation with Roger

“It has been a whirlwind art career,” Melancon said. His work leapt off the walls at Arthur Roger gallery, museums came calling with offers of exhibits, and Sotheby’s auction house sold one of his

aprons — a major component of Indian suits — for $100,000, easily paying for a down payment on a cottage in the Pontchartrain Park neighborhood. There would be no more pouring concrete. History in the making In Melancon’s opinion, it was the legendary downtown Chief of Chiefs Tutti Montana who elevated Indian suit-making to a fine art in the mid-20th century Melancon credits himself with “evolving it to a whole other level.” Competition is at the core of the custom, he said, reciting the masking phrase, “Kill them dead with a needle and thread.” Melancon’s stunning suits feature tributes to historical Black and Indigenous heroes that range from Haile Selassie to Shaka Zulu to Sitting Bull. His color choices mauve, bronze, olive, etc. are uncharacteristically subtle, and his skin tones are especially authentic. Melancon’s 2026 suite features bead mosaics depicting the mutiny aboard the Amistad slave ship, an early episode on the path

to abolition. Stunningly, the materials to make the suit cost more than $12,000. Melancon took a break from masking, starting in 2021. The COVID pandemic had shut down Carnival celebration that year, though Melancon made a splash anyway by ironically displaying one of his suits on the empty platform that once held a statue of Confederate President Jefferson Davis. He hasn’t produced another suit until now, concentrating on making beaded art instead. Melancon said he hasn’t yet sold a complete suit, because nobody has offered him enough money to part with one.

“I don’t sell out,” he said. Maybe he said, the Venice Biennale will be the catalyst for big sales. He’s recently signed up with a new gallery, Miriam Ibrahim in Chicago, which he believes will give his work a global reach. “You have to move on to expand your horizons,” he said. Email Doug MacCash at dmaccash@ theadvocate.com.

LEFT: Bags of multicolored beads wait to be opened at Demond Melancon’s workspace.

STAFF PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER

Big Chief Demond Melancon, of the young Seminole Hunters Black Masking Indians, walks through the Treme neighborhood briefly before heading uptown during St. Joseph’s Night in New Orleans on March 19

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER Melancon has mastered his beading art over many years making suits, patches and larger pieces with plenty of help from his wife, Alicia.

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

Big Chief Demond Melancon, of the young Seminole Hunters, began masking after a fateful evening on St Joseph’s Day, March 19, 1992. He followed several friends after school and was taken aback when seeing the traditional street performances.

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER Melancon’s suits feature tributes to historical Black and Indigenous heroes that range from Haile Selassie to Shaka Zulu to Sitting Bull.

LEMANN

Author reflectsonhis unique Jewish upbringing,La. roots

BY JOYHOLDEN Staff writer

As the son of German Jews, Nicholas Lemann grew up in a world of privilege. His family and community practiced aunique form of Judaism thatdrewlittle attention to their rituals andtraditions.Heknew his family had deep roots in Louisiana, but he was unaware of his ancestors’ faithfulness to Judaism.

In his newest book, “Returning,” Lemann examines his family story —from their arrival in the 1830s as peddlersfrom Germany; to their becoming plantation owners and department store owners in Donaldsonville after the Civil War; to their upward mobilization into the aristocratic world of New Orleans where they could neverquite belong. He uses his own family saga as aconduit to explore antisemitism, faith,tradition and identity

Lemann is aprofessor anddean emeritus at the Columbia Journalism School. He is the author of “The Promised Land,” “The Big Test,” “Redemption” and “TransactionMan.” He lives in New York.

How are you feeling now that “Returning” is outthere and published?

I’m glad it’sout. Ihave been writing for avery long time, but this is the most personal thing I’ve written. So, I’ve been alittle nervous about that. In the Jewish world, the way that we grew up is so strange. It’sjust very hard for people to understand. It takes alot of explaining to people, but I’ve had to do that for years conversationally anyway.

What do yousay to readers thathaveno concept of different customs andcultures between German Jewish families and EasternEuropean Jewish families?

If you belong to an ethnic group or some other identity group, then you’re probably

family alot.

How has religion changed since you were growing up?

In our little group,you could never be fully accepted, at least at the time when Iwas growing up. At thesame time, we cut ourselves off from a lot of thejoy and meaning of being Jewishbecause we wanted our religion to seem lessstrange to other people.

aware that the group looks more unified and uniform from the outside thanitfeels on the inside. There’s subgroupswithin the group, and members of the group are abig issue of conversation. Thoseare conversations you tend to have in your livingroom and at the dinner table, more than you have in the outside world.

In New Orleans, Iwould say the toptwo, which overlap like that, wouldbeBlack Americans and Catholic Americans. Among American Jews,this is no longer.This is history now,I think.

Butamong American Jews, there was abig division from 1875 to1965 between Jews who had come from Germany and other partsofWestern Europe, such as Austria and France, and Jews from Eastern Europe. The firstgroup, likeme, were in the Reform Movement. Mostly the second group, or mostly in the conservative or orthodox movement,those distinctions have changed, but it was avery intenseinter-group cultural battle thataffected thelives of my

It’scomplicated, because the country as a whole has become more secular,but withavery high baseline of being extremely religious.The people who arestill religious have become more religious on thewhole, and that’strueinall the major faiths.

People end up making choices. Today,people who choose to have a religious life tendtobe more religiously observant.The idea that you could be religious in alight way that didn’tdemand much of you is lesssalient in the America of today than it used to be.

search for “Returning?”

What is it liketohavesomanyrelatives still in Donaldsonville who are Catholic now?

My family is kind of all over themap religiously.Now,the way we were raised doesn’treally exist anymore.

So if you went to areformed temple, like Temple Sinai or temple Emanu-El in New York,it wouldn’tbethe way it was when Iwas growing up.

Some members of ourlarge extended family have become more religious, more intentionally Jewish, and then some have converted, and some have just walked away from religion entirely.

How long has it taken you to do the re-

Iknew some things about my family already,but Istarted really diggingsix or seven years ago when Iwent to Germany in thesummer of 2019.

How has your understanding of your family changed?

It’schanged in alot of ways. Because we grew up the way we did, Ihadn’tknownthe great lengths that previousgenerations went to have ameaningful Jewish life.

Ididn’tknow that the family had left the United States and returned to Germany during the Civil War. Ihad somesense, but Ididn’treally know how many liberal and civil rights causes my grandfather had been involved in. There were alot of surprises there.

Overall, the title is meantliterally,and it’sinteresting, because

members of my family have kept leaving and coming back to Judaism. It’s not afixed relationship that is just one way over time. It’s morecomplicated than that, so Ithink that’saninteresting lesson forme.

There’satendency to reduce everything in life, including history,including your own family’shistory, into astory of good guys and bad guys, but it doesn’t fit into that so well. It’s alot morenuanced and complicated.

Howdoyou see this book impacting readers who are notJewish and notfrom New Orleans?

Fornon-Jewishreaders, Ithink it takesyou inside the Jewish world and shows yousome of the internal conflicts, disputesand subgroups.

Jewish people tend to knowabout more,but the outside world doesn’tso much for the Jewish world. Ihopethis is amoment of alot of soul searching in the Jewish world, andIhopethe book helps with that, because in many familiesand congregations, including mine, people aredebating whatit means to be Jewish.

It tends to be framed in terms of your relationship with Israel andZionism, but it goes deeper into fundamental questions of your identity And people arereally struggling with that. Alot of my friends didn’tthink they’d ever have to be struggling with it. So Ihopethe story of myself and various otherfamily members struggling with some of those big questions is helpful to people at this moment.

Email Joy Holdenatjoy holden@theadvocate.com.

In ‘Conversations,’writerJason Berrytracesa long career

In his long and varied career, New Orleans journalist and author Jason Berry has interviewed legions of people. As his stature grew,journalistsbegan to interview Berry,too. The best of these exchanges have now been gathered in “Conversations with Jason Berry,” recently published by University Press of Mississippi. Berry is well knownfor his reportage on scandalswithin the Catholic Church, including the abuse of children by pedophile priests. Thatreporting shook Berry’sown Catholic faith, which has deep local roots.

“I grew up in New Orleans,” he told Judy Ball of The St. Anthony Messenger in a2011 interview.“My grandmother lived ashort drive from my parents’ house. Often Iwould go to her place on Friday nights and stay with her throughthe weekend.She wasaMexican

an AT RANDOM

Creole who had avery festive sense of faith.”

How has Berry tried to continuealife of faith afterlearningthat power andcorruption hadblinded themoral vision of leaders within hischurch?

He’sfrankindescribing the anger andhurt he felt when he discovered apattern of criminalactivitywithin theclerical ranks and attempts to hide the misdeeds. ButBerryalsopoints to thegood priests who worked with himtoexposewrongdoing.

“I came to realize that the institution and its leadership might be corrupt,but that the

faith itself transcended the foible and follies of mere mortals,” he says in a1992 Gambit interview with Don Lee Keith. In alater interview,hediscusses thechurch’ssustaining consolations when he lost his daughter Ariel, who had Down syndromeand suffered from heart problemsbefore dying at 17. As “Conversations withJason Berry” reminds readers, his investigative reporting is only part of his legacy.He’shad nearly adozen book projects, and only three were about the Catholic Church. Berry has also written “Up From theCradle of Jazz,” about New Orleansmusic since World WarII; “Last of theRed Hot Poppas,” acomic murder mystery set within the colorful world of Louisiana politics;and “Earl LonginPurgatory,”a play that explores how Long’snobler ideals were compromised by his inner demons.

Variety, one gathers, has been stimulating for Berry’swork, but it’s also been an occupational necessity.He’swhat journalist Susan Larson described in a2018 interview as “one of thegreat journeyman writers of New Orleans,” ascribe who’s done abit of this and that to makealiving. There’sa valedictory tone in this collection as it charts acareer pathperhaps not easily followed today.Asthe publishing world evolves and humanities funding shrinks, paying venues for work like Berry’sare harder to come by “I thinkmy(epitaph) should be ‘he wrote well, and he lasted,’”hesaid with alaugh in a 2023 interview with G. Howard Hunter and AdeleLayrisson. Berry,at77, seems to be making good on both goals.

Email Danny Heitman at danny@dannyheitman.com.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Nicholas Lemann, NewOrleans nativeand writer for The New yorker,author of ‘Returning.’

AT THE TABLE

Embracethe leftoversand create somethingbetter

Steakfried rice hastaste andleavesnowaste

BY MICHAEL DIRESTO Contributing writer

In my previous food columns, therecipes I share, and the stories behindthem,are largely influencedbymyItalian dad, at whose elbow Ilearned to cookasa kid.This columnisinspired by —ordedicated to —myNorwegian mom, who passed away two yearsago last month.

Mom was on my mind when Iwas planning my Easter menu, one of thefew times ayear when she took over the kitchen from dad, both on the holiday itself and thefollowing day

Her specialty was slow-roasted pork shoulder,orBoston butt, withpotatoes roasted(or browned) in the fat drippings inside the same roasting pan, thenserved smotheredinhomemade pork gravy

This year,Idid a9-pounder,because …leftovers. I’ve grown alarmed of latebythe frequency with which people, amid aperfectly casual conversation,quite comfortably blurtout the frightening proclamation: “Oh, Idon’t eat leftovers.”Well.

Each time it happens,Ifeel sure thatmy mom in heavenisshaking her head and casting herViking Catholic glare downupon the offending parties’ seemingflippancy toward the scarcity of Earth’sresources —and their startling lack of feeling guiltyaboutit. Leftoversopenuppossibilities

This was awoman who, at thecheckoutlane at the grocery store in the 1980s, stood likea sentinel armed with her stack of couponsand calculated the billasthe cashier rang up every item. She then pored over thereceiptbefore we could go.

Heaven help me if she spotted any errors, becausethat meant the poorcashierwould have to ring back up the mispriced item(s), my mom would get arefund for the 60-centovercharge, and my siblings andI would shrink inside our clothes to escapethe embarrassment That was then. As Igrew older,Ieventually gained an appreciation for my mom’swisdom of stretching every penny,whose corollary was letting no food go to waste. This hasled to several occasions when Iasked fora to-go boxatarestaurant —not because therewas anyfoodtotakehome, butbecause Iwantedto pack up whatevermeat bones or seafood shells wereleft on ourplates. My own threechildren

are nolonger phased by such behavior

This past Super Bowl Sunday,ataparty hostedbyfriends who prepared mountains of chicken wings, Ikindly asked that nobody throw out their bones. The hostssupplied me with gallon-sized freezer bags to takehome to make bone brothfor soups and gravy.Reduce it andadd cream to makeanamazing braising liquid, or go one step further and whisk in butter and Parmesan for pasta sauce.

In each case, leftovers make it possible to create anew recipe that’sasgood as, or better than,the original meal.

Emptyyourfridge

Theday after Easter,mymom would make Easter pork roast. There’sa traditional Norwegiandish called Pytt iPanne (mispronounced forever in my family as picka-ponga),that Iwould not go so far as others in calling it a “classic” Norwegian meal, for the simple fact that it’sjust an assembly of leftovers.

According to theinternet,Pytti Panne loosely translates to “small pieces in apan,” and it was introduced to my family by my mom’s dad, my grandfather Leif Tveter.Asa young man, he served as asailor in the Norwegian merchantmarines. Aboard ship, Pytt iPanne was apparently common fare, with the cook throwing together whatever was at hand and thesailors rechristening it.

There are fancier versions that add Dijon mustard, horseradish cream,shiitake mushrooms or pickled beets. All my mom did was augment the olive oil in the pan withasecret weapon (butter), sauté half of adiced onion andthrow in pieces of the leftover potatoes and pork. To makeitgofurther,she added half-inch slices of acouple of hot dogs —this beingNew York, either Hebrew National or Nathan’sFamous beef franks. Freshly grated cheddar cheese melted on top was abonus.

Served with the leftover pork gravy was divine

She didn’tprepare meals often,but when she did, my goodness, Icould taste the love with whichshe did.

With her as inspiration, this fried rice recipe results from aprevious meal that Ipurposefully made twice as much rice as needed, just so Icould make this second meal. If there’s originality in my fried rice, it’storemove all previousingredients from the wok before frying the rice because we’re using butter —which is the way mom would have liked it.

In sum: Empty your fridge. Don’tlet anythinggotowaste. When in doubt, add butter Embrace theleftovers by using them to create something else.

Steakfried rice

Serving size one cup (asaside) or two cups (as an entree). Recipe is by Michael DiResto.

Forthe marinade/sauce:

1tablespoon oyster

for15-30 minutes.

4. Heat large nonstick pan over medium-high heat until it begins to faintly smoke, brush pan with vegetable oil to coat the surface, and frythe steak, using tongs to stir and cook evenly on both sides. Turn off heat and let sit.

5. Heat aseparatelarge panor preferably awok over medium-high heat until it begins to faintly smoke, brush panwith vegetable oil to coat the surface, addeggs, stir thoroughly until cooked,and remove to aseparate bowl.

6. Recoat woksurface with oil (if needed), add carrots and white onions and saute until onions turn translucent, stir in garlic, cook foradditional minute and remove to the bowlofcooked eggs.

7. Take the rice from the refrigerator and shake the container and/or stir the rice with afork to loosen the grains.

8. Add butter to wokand stir to coat surface, add rice and fry, stirring constantly,until rice

1.

2.

to abowl and whisk thoroughly

3. Slice thesteak and place in separatebowl, add 2tablespoons of the sauce, mix thoroughly and marinate

PHOTO By RACHEL DIRESTO

Steak fried rice

original document, its cover page and acopy of the signature page,” museum curator Anne Mahoney said. “It also has small educational displays about the role of the Mississippi Riverinthe transaction and who was involved. Theexhibit will also be presented in both English and French.”

And though all of these original documents will be in thecase, required precautions are being taken.

“Since this is such ahistorically significant document, and it pertains to treaties for theUnited States of America, it has special protections in terms of lighting, temperature and humidity,” Mahoney said. “Since light damage is cumulativeand irreversible,we’ll keep the treaty closed so that the writing does not becomefaded by any contact with light. And then we’llhave an excerptfromiton display next to it that’sareproduction.”

Theexhibit, like Bonaparte’s

The French Exchangecopyofthe Convention between the Republic of France and the United States signed by

finalizing the sale of the Louisiana Territorywill be on displayatLouisiana’sOld State Capitolbeginning April14. the document is on loanbythe National Archives in Washington.

‘BOUGHT FOR ASONG:A

YOUNG NATION EXPANDS’

April 14-July 11 at Louisiana’sOld State Capitol, 100 NorthBlvd., BatonRouge. Hoursare 10 a.m. to 4p.m.Tuesdaythrough Fridayand 9a.m. to 3p.m. Saturday. l To accommodate anticipated demand duringthe exhibition’sopening week,April 14-18, the museum will operateontimed entryslots of 10 a.m.tonoon, noon to 2p.m.and 2p.m. to 4p.m. l Fortickets, visit louisianaoldstatecapitol.org

signature, is small, consisting of theagreement displayed beneath thickglass in one of the Old Capitol’s octagonal rooms. Security guardswill be stationed inside the room,and visitorswill notbeallowed to takephotos.

“Visitors can’ttake their phones out when they enter the room,” Mahoney said.“We don’twant any accidental flashes. We have high securityand high environmentalcontrols, so youwon’t be able to takepictures. But we do have alittle handout you can take as a souvenir.”

IronyinBaton Rouge

The ironyinthis situation is that Baton Rougewas apart of Spanish West Florida when the Louisiana Territory was sold to the U.S.

“There wasa neutral strip that wasn’ttechnically apart of thepurchase,” Mahoney said. “That didn’thappen until after Philemon Thomas and theWest Florida revolt.”

Thomasisburied in the Baton Rouge National Cemetery on 19th Street

He was aRevolutionary War general who led the revolt that eventually annexed Baton Rouge into the U.S. in 1810, seven years after the flag of Spain was lowered at theCabildo to make way for theFrench flag, whichwas immediately lowered and replaced by the American flag.

France ceded the Louisiana territory to Spain in 1762 to prevent the British from taking it during theSeven Years’ War. Spain agreed to return it to France when the time came. And thattime came when Bonaparte decided to unload

the territorytofund his imminent war with Great Britain. TheLouisiana Purchase happened in three parts, beginningwiththe TreatyofCession, followed by thetwo conventions defining the financial aspects of the sale.

Bonaparte signed the final bill of sale on April 30, 1803. The flagceremonyfollowed on Dec.20, 1803. What didthe countrygain?

TheU.S. gainedapproximately 828,000 square miles of land for $15 million from that diagonal scribble of a signature. That’sroughly 4cents peracre, which accounts for the sale’shistorical description as “bought forasong,” along with the exhibit’stitle

The priceofa song bought achunk of real estate that stretched from the Missis-

sippi River to the Rocky Mountains. It also secured control of the port of New Orleans, which reshapedtrade,migration, culture andpolitical poweracross the continent.

“This will actually be the second timethis document has come to theOld State Capitol,” Mahoney said. “The first time was at ourinauguralopening in 1994.”

Secretary of State Nancy Landry says she’sproud to partnerwith theNational Archivesfor this exhibit.

“Withthe stroke of apen, this agreementmore than doubled thesizeofour nation andstands as one of the mostsignificant real estate transactionsinAmerican history,”Landry said. “Weinvite everyone to join us as we welcome this remarkable piece of history back to the land it helped create.”

Email RobinMilleratromiller@ theadvocate.com.

PROVIDED PHOTO By NATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION/WASHINGTON, D.C.

The French Exchangecopyofthe Convention between the RepublicofFrance and the United States signed by Napoleon finalizing the sale of the Louisiana Territorywill be on display at Louisiana’sOld State Capitol beginning April 14. The document is on loan by the National Archives in Washington.

PROVIDED PHOTOByNATIONAL

PROVIDED PHOTO By LOUISIANA STATEMUSEUM Thure de Thulstrup’s1903 painting,‘Hoisting American Colors, Louisiana Cession, 1803,’

‘Malcolm in the Middle’ returns after 20 years

The four-part series is subtitled ‘Life’s Still Unfair’

BY MARK KENNEDY AP entertainment writer

NEWYORK A very grown-up

Malcolm turns to the camera at the beginning of the new “Malcolm in the Middle” revival and, weirdly, has nothing to complain about.

“Yeah, I look different, but, hey, everything about me is different. I’m happy I’m successful,” he says. “My life is fantastic now You want to know how I did it? All I had to do is stay completely away from my family.”

That’s going to be very hard to do in Hulu’s four-part return to “Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair,” which reunites one of the zaniest and chaotic families ever on prime time. The episodes premiered Friday Twenty years after the last episode aired, we learn that Malcolm — a nervous, sputtering Frankie Muniz — is now a father of a teen and desperate to shield her from his dysfunctional parents and siblings.

“I cannot go back to the way I was before and I’m not going to risk you,” Malcolm tells her “You have to think of it like they’re the full moon and we’re werewolves.”

How revival came about

Original series creator Linwood Boomer and his co-producer-wife, Tracy

‘Charlie’s

BY BETH HARRIS Associated Press

LOS ANGELES Once upon a time there were three little girls who starred as private detectives answering to a never-seen boss in a show that turned into a pop culture phenomenon called “Charlie’s Angels.”

Kate Jackson, Jaclyn Smith and Cheryl Ladd reunited to mark the show’s 50th anniversary at PaleyFest LA on last week. They were greeted with a standing ovation and whoops and cheers from an audience at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood

The hour-long crime adventure series debuted on Sept. 22, 1976, in a pre-internet and streaming world when there were just three major television networks. It was a top-10 hit for ABC in its first two of five seasons, ending in 1981

“I knew the show was different, special and unique,” Smith told the audience. “Three women chasing danger instead of getting rescued.” Jackson added, “We made an impact, I think.” Farrah Fawcett-Majors became a 1970s icon with her feathered hair and sexy swimsuit poster She left after the first season to pursue a film career She died in 2009. She was replaced by Ladd, who showed up on her first

Katsky Boomer, batted ideas on how to get the gang back together for years. Both weren’t willing to make just anything for a “shameless cash grab.”

Linwood Boomer recalls a light bulb went on when his wife wondered what would it be like if Malcolm had a daughter who was exactly like him. “I was just like, ‘Oh my God, that kid would be miserable,’” he says.

In addition to Muniz, Bryan Cranston and Jane Kaczmarek are back as the barely-holding-it-together parents and Christopher Kennedy Masterson and Justin Berfield return as brothers Francis and Reese, respectively Ne wcomers incl ude Keeley Karsten as Leah, Malcolm’s deeply empathic daughter, and Vaughan Murrae, Malcolm’s whipsmart youngest sibling who we last saw as a baby. Caleb

Ellsworth-Clark takes over the role of Dewey

Director Ken Kwapis, one of the original directors of the show, was tapped to return and was impressed with how the old and new cast members handled the physical and emotional tasks.

“The original cast slipped back into their roles effortlessly But equally important is that they embraced the new members of the cast very quickly,” he says.

“There’s a performance level that some people have described as high octane. And so for the new members of the ensemble, they had to like, ‘OK, I’m going to step up and do it.’ And they all hit it out of the park.”

Comical child-rearing

Malcolm may desperately want to keep his distance from his family, but the 40th wedding anniversary of his parents has a gravitational

pull, putting everyone on a collision course, albeit a hysterical one.

“It’s hard to do a straight comedy right now because everything’s very serious in the world,” says Katsky Boomer “It feels nice to just unleash good vibes so people can just take a breather.”

“Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair” joins a list of new and upcoming reboots and revivals from the late 1990s and early 2000s, including “Scrubs,” “King of the Hill,” “Prison Break,” “Baywatch” and “Phineas and Ferb.”

The Boomers credit Cranston for keeping the flame of a revival alive, staying in touch with the actors and crew

And he’s jumped back in boldly despite becoming a huge star in the intervening years. In the first episode back, Cranston stands completely nude as Kaczmarek’s Lois shaves his back and nether regions.

“Malcolm in the Middle” originally aired on Fox and ended its seven-season run in 2006.

It won seven Emmy Awards — including one for best writing for a comedy series — and currently streams on Hulu and on Hulu on Disney+, where the revival will also live.

Linwood Boomer based “Malcolm” on his own nutty family, and it struck a chord, depicting childhood as a constant power struggle — with bigger kids, teachers, parents and siblings.

doing We were helping to punch a hole in that glass ceiling and that makes a big difference.”

Five decades later, the show remains popular in reruns and DVDs, having spawned a film series starring Drew Barrymore, Cameron Diaz and Lucy Liu.

“I’m ready to go back.”

The trio’s sisterhood includes all of them overcoming breast cancer, with Ladd revealing for the first time publicly Monday that she had an aggressive form of the disease. She didn’t say when it occurred.

There were squabbles with a ferocity rare on TV, and it was funny because it was so grounded in truth. It was TV’s most comically accurate view of child-rearing since “Roseanne.”

“There was a line in the pilot I would say to myself all the time ‘I want a better family!’ — and it turns out most families aren’t any better,” says Boomer Parental legacy

For the revival, the tables are turned. This time, it’s about being a parent and the legacy that we extend to our children.

Malcolm’s daughter is struggling in life and school, but her father’s genetic toolkit only has belligerence, impulsiveness and thickheadedness, passed on by his on-screen parents.

“So much trauma, unfortunately, is the result of good

people literally trying their best,” says Katsky Boomer

“You can understand it as you grow old enough to appreciate that your parents are human beings.”

Kwapis says the revival is painfully — and also hilariously — looking at how sometimes years go by and we’re often in the same groove when it comes to family dynamics.

“You get to explore new things, but you also get to explore the idea that some things — for better or for worse just can’t change,” he says. As for any future revisiting of this family, the husband-and-wife

“Malcolm” team are noncommittal.

“There are no plans. It was a really lovely experience,” says Linwood Boomer Might there be more? “I can’t say no, but I also can’t say yeah,” he says.

day wearing a Farrah Fawcett T-shirt. She had turned down producer Aaron Spelling three times, knowing how beloved Fawcett had been.

“I knew that there was nobody that was going to replace Farrah, so I made a joke of myself,” Ladd said on the red carpet. “Everybody laughed. Farrah would have done something like that.” Jackson added, “Cheryl stepped in and we didn’t miss a beat.”

Critics weren’t kind, however, calling the show “jiggle television” because the women dressed scantily to go undercover and slamming it for vapid acting.

“It didn’t bother me,” Jackson said on the red carpet. “I knew what we were doing and Gloria Steinem knew what we were doing, and some other very impressive people knew what we were

“We were giving people an hour to sit back, put their feet up, forget everything and watch television,” Jackson said, “and then again just kind of subtly getting the message in there that women are just as capable, intelligent, can do anything that a man can do.”

The mostly older audience cheered and laughed as scenes from various episodes were played.

Included in the highlights were Shelley Hack, who lasted one season after replacing Jackson, and the late Tanya Roberts, who appeared in the final season. Smith and the late David Doyle, who played Charlie’s go-between were on the show’s entire run.

Smith, who is 80, and Ladd, who is 74, went on to prolific careers in made-for-TV movies and guesting on other shows.

Jackson, who quit after three seasons, later starred in the CBS hit “Scarecrow and Mrs. King.”

Jackson left the business nearly 20 years ago to raise her son. Now 77, she said,

PROVIDED PHOTO

Frankie Muniz returns to a four-part series airing on Julu of ‘Malcolm in the Middle: Life’s Still Unfair.’

TNS PHOTO

From left Kate Jackson, Jaclyn Smith and Cheryl Ladd, of the television series

‘Charlie’s Angels,’ celebrate 50 years of the show.

By The Associated Press

Today is Sunday,April 12,the 102nd dayof2026. There are 263 days left in theyear

Todayinhistory:

On April 12, 1961, Soviet cosmonautYuriGagarin became the first human in space, orbitingthe earth oncebeforelanding safely via parachute after a planned ejection from his space capsule.

Also on this date:

In 1861, the U.S. CivilWar began as Confederate forces opened fire on Fort Sumter in South Carolina. In 1945, President Franklin D. Roosevelt died of a cerebral hemorrhage in Warm Springs, Georgia, at age 63; he was succeeded by Vice PresidentHarry S. Truman.

In 1954, Bill Haley and HisCometsrecorded “Rock Around the Clock,” asong oftencitedas bringing rock ’n’ rollmusic into the mainstream when it was popularized in the film “The Blackboard Jungle” the next year

In 1955, the polio vaccine developed by Jonas Salk was declared safe and effective following nearlya year of field trials undertakenbyabout 1.8 million American child volunteers dubbed“polio pioneers.”

In 1963, civil rights leader theRev.Martin Luther King Jr.was arrested and jailed in Birmingham, Alabama, chargedwith contempt of court andparading without apermit. (During his time behind bars, King wrote his “Letter from Birmingham Jail.”)

In 1981, theNASA Space Shuttle programbegan as SpaceShuttle Columbia, theworld’s first reusable spacecraft, lifted off from the Kennedy Space Center In 1985, Space Shuttle Discovery rocketed into orbit, carrying the firstelected officialintospace. The shuttle was carrying RepublicanSen. Jake Garn of Utah, chairman of theSenate panel that oversees NASA’s budget.

In 1992, Euro Disney,now called Disneyland Paris, officially opened in France with aparade, fireworks and Mickey Mouse opening thecastle doorstothe theme park.

In 2015, former firstlady andex-U.S. Secretaryof State Hillary Rodham Clinton announcedher campaign to seek the 2016 Democratic nominationfor president. (Shewould be defeated in the November 2016presidential electionbyRepublicanDonald Trump).

In 2022, aman opened fire in aNew York City subway car during rushhour,wounding 10 people. (Frank James was arresteda day later, eventually pleading guiltytoterrorism charges andwas sentenced to life in prison.)

Today’sbirthdays: MusicianHerbie Hancock is 86. Musician John Kay (Steppenwolf) is 82. ActorEd O’Neill is 80. TV host David Letterman is 79.Author Scott Turow is 77. Actor Andy Garcia is 70. Movie directorWalter Salles is 70. Country musician Vince Gill is 69. Actor-comedianRetta is 56. ActorClaireDanes is 47. Actor JenniferMorrison is 47. Director of National IntelligenceTulsi Gabbard is 45. Model-actor Brooklyn Decker is 39. Actor-comedian Ilana Glazer is 39. ActorSaoirse Ronan is 32. Former elitegymnast Katelyn Ohashi is 29.

Shoulder to shoulder at thesugar station

Dear Miss Manners: Isometimes get a coffee to go from alocal shop, and I stop at the little station to add sugar,cream, etc. to my cup. As at most coffee shops, this station is pretty small. If someone is there, Iusually ask something such as, “Would Ibeinyour way if Ireached for somesugar?” Other times Ijust wait for the person to leave, not wanting to crowd them. When it’smyturn, however,people often barge in without aword, gettinginmyway I’m wondering what therules are here. Should we wait for the person at thestation to finish and leave? Should we ask if we can share thestation? Andwhat,ifanything, should we say if someonecrowds us out when we were there first?

no hope of gettingtoyour 9a.m. meeting without sharing thespace, ask politely if you are in the person’s way,asyou have done. Butifyou are the one getting crowded, Miss Manners suggestsyou say,asyou would for someonejostling your occupied bathroom stall, “I’ll be just a minute.” Andthen continue to add your cream and sugar

Dear Miss Manners: My young adult daughterhad plans to go out at about 7a.m. with afriend. Iwas awake but in pajamas, making breakfast and tidying up. When Iturned around, the friend was right behind me, looking formydaughter.Iasked her if someonehad let her in, and she said no, the door wasopen.

anybody This has been afriend for10years, so Iknow her well. This whole friend group has ahabit of going inside and outside, backyard to bathroom,when they come over,and Ihave no problem with that. My other daughter said she also walks into her friends’ homes without knocking, which appalls me. Ithink it is rude, and in somecontexts, dangerous. What if you are mistaken foran intruder?

Gentle Reader: Why not lock the door?

For the general principle, however, Miss Manners agrees that you should keep telling your daughters to knock before entering someone’shome, and that you would prefer her friends do the same.

Of course this is no big deal, but I’d like to have someguidance to assuage my annoyance and toavoid being an annoyance to others.

GentleReader: First,you must size up thesituation —not only the amount of room at the station, but also the pace of thecoffee lover before you. If there is

Isaid I’d go get my daughter,but please not to enter without being let in next time. Itold her she could waitin theliving room, but she apparently was embarrassed and went to wait in the car.(My daughter had overslept.)

My daughter and the friend left, but my daughter sent me atext saying that thefriend had done this because it was early and she hadn’twanted to wake

Toothpaste tube problems

Dear Heloise: How much longer do we have to put up withtubes of toothpastethat we can’tempty like we used to by rolling up thetube? Ihave to cut open the tube, where almostone-third of the toothpaste is still there. Then Ihave to scrape it out little by little with my toothbrush, which actually isn’tsanitary if morethan one person uses the tube. It’s no wonder that the manufacturers like it this way as alot of people throw thetube out without cutting it open and have to buy anew one. On top of this, they keep tellingustosave on plastic. —Nete S.,via email Nete, we have toothpastethat can now be stored in atube withawider cap so that most of thetoothpasteslips downward, which eliminates the need to roll up thebottom of the tube. Ithink mostmanufacturers of toothpaste will probably stick to plastic tubes, though, at least for now —Heloise

Let’sall compost

Emphasizing the threat of amistaken intruder should scare everyone into submission. Which leads us back to the question: Why are you not routinely locking your door?

Sendquestions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com or to email at dearmissmanners@ gmail.com.

Dear Heloise: Iloved the letter aboutusing the inside parts of toilet paper rolls and using dryer lint to startfires! For

gardeners, if you maintain acompost pile, these cardboard tubes can go right intothe compost pile aftershredding them. Idon’trecommend putting dryer lint in acompost pile, but other items thatcan be put into compostinclude: white greasefree paper towels; unflavored tortilla chips,moldy bread; crushed eggshells;all vegetable and fruit peelings; newspapers; leaves; garden clippings;any non-slick paper; cereal boxes; all-natural fibers such as cotton, wool and linen; and grass clippings. Don’tput theseitems into compost: grease, any kind of meat, onions, citrus peels, plastic, polyester fabrics or diseased plant material. Compost is agreat fertilizer and soil conditioner.You don’teven need abin to start it. Make a3-by-3-foot pile, alternating between green items (plant matter, grass, etc.) and brown items (shredded branches, cardboard, leaves, etc.). Keep it moistand cover with atarp if necessary.The compost is ready when it’s dark brown in color and has asweet, earthy odor It’s OK for small chunks to remain in

Rosestoremember

Dear Heloise: Recently,you published a letter from areader regarding “planting flowers as aremembrance,” and it inspired me to share my story.Back in the 1950s when Iwas ateenager,my mother ordered about adozen rosebushes and planted them in her front and side yard. With her loving care, they bloomed beautifully every year When she becamesick and moved in with me during the early ’90s, Idug up roots from her favorite red rosebush and divided it into twoplants. Then I planted them in my backyard. They are still living and blooming. The next wonderful part of my story is that over the years, twoofmydaughters have gotten roots from my rosebushes. Nowintheir very own yards, they can enjoy the roses that they remember seeing in their grandmother’s yard. Ican still see my mom’ssmile in every bloom! —Betty D.,Front Royal,Virginia Send ahinttoheloise@heloise.com.

Judith Martin MISS MANNERS

Hints from Heloise

Realitycheck

From talkingmannequinstovirtual colonoscopies, Louisianamedical schoolsembracing simulationtech

BY RICH COLLINS Staff writer

The high-tech,lifelike mannequinwould be downright creepy if it wasn’t such agood teaching tool.

Thedevice, designed to look like a10-year-oldkid lyinginahospital bed, turns its head when it hearsa voice. Its siliconeskin feels lifelike. Anditcan talk —oratleast transmit the voice of an instructor from anotherroom.

Theroughly$220,000 “patient simulator,”among the most sophisticatedonthe market,isone of many cutting-edgeteaching tools now in useatLSU Health New Orleans’Center for AdvancedLearning andSimulation,a2-year-old, $68 million investment in newtechnologyand tech-

niques that shows how much healthcare education has evolved. Afew decades ago, medical and nursing students

learned entirely on the job. They’d first draw blood, start an IV or suture alaceration on real patients under thesupervision of their teachers.

Notanymore.

Since the 1990s, the emergence of $4 billion medical simulationindustry haschangedthe process, and Louisiana schools are among those investing in expensive gear and building new programsasthey explore ways to train the next generation of health care professionals.

Using patient simulators, virtualrealitytools, labgrown tissues—and even humanactors pretending to be sickpatients —educators at LSU, the Tulane University School of Medicine and other institutions in Louisiana are able to reproduce many of the experiences adoctor or nurse will encounter whencaring for apatient without any real-world repercussions if mistakes are made.

BY STEPHANIE RIEGEL Staff writer

At aglobalenergy conference in Houstonlast month, Gov. Jeff Landry unveiled anew nuclear energy strategyfor Louisiana, proposing to expand power plants, components and fuel enrichmentsites. Days later,Entergyfiled documents with utilityregulators seeking to increase the amount of electricity it cangeneratefor Meta’s artificial intelligence datacenter in north Louisiana—aplan thatrelies, in part, on building outmore nuclear power capacity The developments come as President Donald Trump, who has cham-

pioned fossilfuels while rolling back efforts to developmorewindand solar power,has embraced nuclear energy,investing billions in new technologiesand pushing to quadruple the power generated from thenation’snuclear facilities by 2050. At the same time, there is growing demand for carbon-free energy frombuyers of chemicalfeedstocks, particularly companies in Europe. While therenewed focus on nuclear power may come as asurprise to thosewho remember high-profile disasterslike Three Mile Island and Chernobyl in the1970s and 1980s, energy expertssay nuclearpower

STAFF PHOTOSByCHRISGRANGER

Medical studentsKylan Steele, from left, Christi Kruger,Michael Hill, Asia Eskaros and Alina Mohiuddin work on amannequin patient at the LSUHealth Center for Advanced Learning and Simulation in NewOrleans. The room is set up likeareal hospitalwherethe mannequins cantalk and are remotelycontrolled,putting the students through ‘real life’ situations.

LSU medical students examinea mannequin simulating apatient.

“We’ve gotten better at teaching,” said Dr Peter DeBlieux, the LSU medical school’s assistant dean of advanced learning and simulation.

“We know it’s safer to practice on plastic and on actors than on real people. Across the country, that’s replaced the old standard of ‘see one, do one, teach one.’”

‘Here to make mistakes’

Medical simulation dates back to at least the 18th century when some of the first training mannequins were created, but the practice became commonplace in the last three decades as increased computing power meant machines designed to look like the human body — or parts of it — could better mimic the way human physiology responds to treatment.

Early simulators could be used to demonstrate certain tasks, like CPR. Now companies make devices that can talk, move and react to medications while simulating heart rate, blood pressure, breathing and more. They can be used to demonstrate everything from childbirth to a massive heart attack, and students use them to practice inserting IVs and catheters, giving shots and performing other procedures.

The advanced mannequins are joined by other forms of simulation for teachers, including immersive virtual reality tools and practice surgeries performed by cutting into lab-grown tissue. Added together, the options mean medical students can learn before treating real patients.

“You don’t want to be the first person someone tries a procedure on, but 20 years ago, that is exactly what happened,” said Jennifer Calzada, director at the Tulane School of Medicine’s simulation center in its downtown Murphy Building, where the school has invested millions in simulation education.

“There’d be some little shaky nervous med or nursing student who has to stick you three times before they get it right.”

That type of teaching was a problem for many reasons, especially because something as simple as drawing blood can lead to infection, Calzada said. Now when students begin treating real patients, they’ve practiced first with various types of simulators.

“You’d far rather someone’s first experience be in the sim lab, because students come here to make mistakes,” Calzada said.

Tulane has several virtual reality training systems, including one that surgery residents and GI fellows use to practice colonoscopies It includes a mannequin torso simulator, but it also uses software and a screen that looks like the ones doc-

NUCLEAR

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is front of mind again for several reasons, and Louisiana is well positioned to capitalize on it.

“People in energy are thinking about it again because they have looked at other options,” said Eric Smith, associate director of the Tulane University Energy Institute.

And if there’s a need for clean, reliable power and lots of it, nuclear is about the only option, he said “Louisiana punches above its weight in terms of the nuclear power it generates,” Smith added. “So, we’re already in the game. Market forces

Fewer than 30 states have functioning nuclear power plants, which collectively produce about 20% of the total power in the U.S. Louisiana is among them with two plants — Waterford 3 on the west bank of St. Charles Parish and River Bend near St. Francisville. Both have been functioning for decades and together generate more than 15% of the state’s electricity

A couple of factors are behind the renewed focus on nuclear power, experts say One is the need to diversify away from natural gas — which is cheap and abundant, for now, but may not always be.

tors use to recreate the experience of a real procedure

Simulation central A tour of CALS shows how simulation is done today, and it involves a lot more than expensive mannequins. The eight-floor facility — part of LSU’s larger campus between Tulane Avenue and Perdido Street near the Caesars Superdome — is filled with simulation labs, demonstration spaces and many training tools.

On the first floor, there’s a mock emergency room complete with a ramp for ambulances that dates back to the building’s days as an active hospital. The space is designed to teach groups how to handle different scenarios, like a mass casualty event or the emergency delivery of a baby

On the second floor, there’s a demonstration lab, where instructors teach procedures on cadavers, animals, lab-grown tissues or simu-

lation devices.

Down the hall are training rooms where nursing students use simulators to practice establishing an IV pump, placing a catheter, taking blood pressure or performing more complicated tasks. Some of the rooms contain the same ultrasound devices, infusion pumps and other machines in use in real hospitals.

DeBlieux is particularly proud of LSU’s program employing actors to pretend to be patients experiencing everything from lower back pain to a heart attack Cameras and microphones in rooms that look just like the inside of a doctor’s office capture interactions so instructors and students can watch in real time or review later

DeBlieux said schools have been training with help from actors for decades, but they typically focus on procedures: checking blood pressure correctly, palpating the organs in the right order, putting the stethoscope in the right place. LSU adds an emphasis on com-

greenhouse gasses that cause ex-

treme weather. Though Trump has ignored such risks with policies that promote fossil fuels, the rest of the world is looking for ways to mitigate climate change by reducing carbon emissions.

like wind or solar, and its radioactive waste carries health and safety risks.

Fewer than 30 states have functioning nuclear power plants, which collectively produce about 20% of the total power in the U.S. Louisiana is among them, with two plants and together generate more than 15% of the state’s electricity.

“Right now, natural gas is by far the largest electrical generating source, so there is a benefit in having different forms of generation ” said Greg Upton, executive director of the LSU Center for Energy Studies. “It is a hedge against future cost changes.” The other reason is the need for power sources that do not emit the

“Nuclear is a lower carbon fuel,” Upton said. “So, a lot of the industrial companies moving to Louisiana are realizing that questions about carbon intensity will impact how they are able to market globally.”

Environmentalists note that while nuclear power is cleaner in some respects than natural gas, it is not a truly clean energy source,

“There is no coordinated nuclear waste disposal plan in this country,” said Jackson Voss, government affairs and policy coordinator for the Alliance for Affordable Energy, which has raised concerns about the cost of nuclear power. “Each state is on its own There is no national repository for nuclear waste where this stuff is stored.”

That said, lessons learned from accidents like Three Mile Island nearly half a century ago or, more recently, Fukushima in Japan have made today’s nuclear power plants safer and more reliable than in the past.

“The fact of the matter is they generate enormous amounts of power, and the number of accidents and fatalities is astonishingly small,” Smith said.

munication skills, like making eye contact, listening well, tactfully breaking bad news to patients and understanding how a patient’s past trauma can require extra care.

“How you talk to people improves health care outcomes,” DeBlieux said. “Patients are more likely to take medicine, follow diet and exercise guidelines, and come back for appointments if they like their health care provider.”

LSU Health has partnered with Utah-based artificial intelligence company Videra Health to evaluate the data gathered from the sessions.

“They flag nonverbal behaviors like shaking your head while saying, ‘I’m so glad you came in today,’” DeBlieux said. “People do that every day without realizing it.” Evolving technology

Local health care pros believe simulation is important to make their institutions competitive as they seek research grants and tuition dollars. But the necessary tech is expensive to buy and maintain.

Patient simulators can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several hundred thousand dollars each, and just like a car or a dishwasher, they don’t last forever Virtual reality systems cost thousands or more and also have a limited lifespan.

“You need to flat out replace the computer every three or four years because there’s major processing going on,” Calzada said. “Creating those virtual reality environments is super complex.”

Calzada contributed to a soonto-be-published study from the American Association of Medical Colleges that shows that roughly half of school survey respondents spend at least $1 million annually

Legacy power plants

The bigger challenge for nuclear power at the moment is the cost. Apples to apples, power generated by nuclear facilities is nearly five times as expensive as electricity that comes from natural gas, based on the Lazard Levelized Cost of Energy, an industry formula that analyzes the cost competitiveness of different energy sources.

Over the past four decades, several states have decommissioned their nuclear plants. In places where plants are functioning, like in Louisiana, they are older and need to be upgraded.

Waterford 3, which produces 1,100 megawatts, was built in 1985. Riverbend, which produces 974 megawatts, was completed a year later Entergy also operates the Grand Gulf nuclear plant near Vicksburg, Mississippi, just across the state line, as well as a facility in Arkansas. A megawatt is enough energy to power roughly 200 homes.

In recent filings with the Louisiana Public Service Commission, Entergy has said it wants to upgrade its existing nuclear plants to increase total capacity by as much as 300 megawatts. Those upgrades would likely take place at Waterford 3 and Riverbend, as well as in Arkansas, not Grand Gulf, which underwent a capacity update in 2012.

“While Entergy is not building any new nuclear plants yet, we have a team of professionals evaluating all viable options,” said Mike Bowling, Entergy’s nuclear fleet communications manager “Any new nuclear investment we make will be responsibly planned to ensure customers are protected from a financial risk perspective.

on simulation. In 2011, fewer than 20% spent that much. Thankfully the machines continue to get cheaper and better as AI and virtual reality change what’s possible.

Delgado Community College’s Dean of Nursing Jennifer Fernandez said the “future of health care training is 100% in using AI technology to create immersive experiences.”

In 2023, Delgado opened the $44 million Ochsner Center for Nursing and Allied Health at the corner of Orleans and City Park avenues in Mid-City. The facility’s simulated hospital on the second floor includes a lab where students wear virtual reality goggles to learn how to start an IV and other procedures.

“It’s kind of like kids playing video games,” Fernandez said. “We create a scenario, like a child having a bipolar episode or an allergic reaction and learners can interact with these virtual patients while others can watch on screen.”

As technology continues to evolve, experts predict it will used to create more team training scenarios, such as colleagues working together in a virtual operating room, one person handing off instruments while another is performing CPR.

“We need learners ready to save lives when they walk out onto the floor,” Fernandez said. “The best way to do that is to put them in these simulated experiences where there is no harm, nobody gets hurt and they feel safe to make errors.”

Email Rich Collins at rich. collins@theadvocate.com.

“We have a separate memorandum of understanding with Meta to explore the future development and use of nuclear power.”

Portable nuclear power?

The current focus on nuclear power is not limited to legacy power plants like Waterford and Riverbend. An emerging technology that has been around for years but never deployed on a large commercial scale involves building portable nuclear reactors that can be used to help generate power for individual industrial users like refineries or AI data centers.

Last year, the Louisiana Legislature approved fast-tracking permitting for these small modular reactors, which have a large base of potential customers along Louisiana’s busy industrial corridor

Many of the state’s refineries and industrial manufacturers already have their own mini power plants “behind the meter,” giving Louisiana more co-generating capacity, as its known, than almost any other state, according to Upton.

“When you talk to industrials, they say if they could install a (small modular reactor) right now in a new facility, they would be interested in doing it,” he said.

Smith predicts it will be several years before small modular reactors are used on a wide scale, but he believes it will eventually happen, especially given the current support for it in Washington and states like Louisiana, the technological improvements that are making it easier and cheaper, and market demand.

“We know how to do it, and we know how to do it safely,” he said. “But it’s not something you can do in six months or a year It’s more like five years away.”

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

STAFF PHOTOS By CHRIS GRANGER

Registered nurse Aimme McCauley, a faculty member at LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine, uses a computer to control a mannequin being examined by medical students at the LSU Health Center for Advanced Learning and Simulation in New Orleans

LSU medical students Asia Eskaros, left, and Christi Kruger examine a mannequin patient

DeBlieux

Calzada

Fernandez

TALKING BUSINESS

ASK THE EXPERTS

2025 a good year for furnisher of offices,

BY RICH COLLINS Staff writer

Shelby Russ, president and CEO of New Orleansbased AOS Interior Environments, has spent decad es decking out offices, dorms, hospitals and more with high-end furniture, fixtures, modular walls and other interior elements. In 2025, his company had its best year ever, topping $50 million in revenue for the second time.

The work that AOS does gives Russ an insider’s perspective on which sectors of the economy are most active, and from what he’s seen since the pandemic, he’s optimistic about the direction of the state overall. That perspective informs his work as a director of the New Orleans branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, where he reports on local business conditions to help bankers make decisions about interest rates.

A big fan of New Orleans culture, Russ also is part of a team planning to develop a museum called the Louisiana Music & Heritage Experience.

This conversation has been edited for clarity and brevity What does AOS do? We are a design-assist subcontractor for furniture, fixtures and equipment, or FF&E. While architects are focused on the design, we have very specific knowledge about the furnishings that go into the space. We also provide manufactured interior construction, which saves time. Interior walls aren’t just dumb design elements; they’re actually working tools in an office with whiteboards and other features embedded into them How did the business start? It began with records management systems, showing people more efficient ways to store and retrieve their file folders. My father had been an executive with the old Remington Rand company and then became a dealer for them. He started the business in Algiers in 1976. This is the era back before computers, so having physical things to hold all your paper was really important.

The big tech then was microfilm: taking records and moving them to one-thirtieth of their size on film. That was my first job — head of the micrographics division. What’s the company’s bread and butter today?

It’s mostly furniture. We represent Knoll and Herman Miller, known for iconic midcentury modern designs. We also have products from 250 other manufacturers. We do about 400 projects a year They scale from multimillion-dollar jobs to something as small as a client who needs to order a desk or chair

How does that compare to furniture made for the hospitality indus-

try? Is it more or less rugged?

Hospitality furniture actually is a lower standard because the useful life is not as long. Hotels expect to change their look more frequently than an office would. Big markets for us are higher education and health care, where there are some important structural considerations as well. They select materials for hospitals based on infection control, and in schools, if you’re doing a dormitory or a student union, you need the most hardy, robust furniture ever Through your work, you see who’s investing in offices. Where’s the action these days? At one point, our real

wheelhouse was corporations, but now we are doing more institutional work: schools, hospitals, government. We took a dip during the pandemic, but then it created opportunities for us as well because companies embraced hybrid models.

We’ve done work for The Port of New Orleans, and we just finished the Municipal and Traffic Court of New Orleans. It’s a wonderful rehabilitation of a midcentury modern building. We did a good bit at LSU Health Sciences Center New Orleans and Tulane and we’re getting ready to do projects at Ochsner

I’m also optimistic about the investment Tulane is making downtown and the Louisiana International Terminal in Violet. In my youth, New Orleans was the second-largest port in the world, and it’s not the case anymore because of the way international logistics has changed, but there’s an opportunity for us to move way up the ladder there.

If you look statewide, where are you seeing the most action?

I’m very bullish on Baton Rouge, which has a great entrepreneurial culture. It’s a different economy than New Orleans, which is good. They’re growing in areas that New Orleans is not, and vice versa. The more we go to the world as a package, the better off we’re both going to be.

How did you become a Federal Reserve board member and what is your mission there?

They want to understand what’s going on in the economy at street level because the data has limitations. By the time you get it, it’s months old. In an economy like we have today, which is ever-changing and ever-

nuanced, you have to know what’s going on at the moment. When they talk to members of these regional boards, it helps them understand the data and make more informed policy decisions. Where and when do you meet?

Roughly once a month at the Federal Reserve in downtown New Orleans and occasionally in Atlanta.

Why is the culture of New Orleans so important to you?

What a gift and a treasure the city is. I live downtown because I want to be in the center of it all. We raised our kids on the northshore and the ’burbs. As soon as we became empty nesters, my wife, who’s from New York, said, “Let’s go to the city.” Pound per pound, New Orleans is the best entertainment value in North America. In Los Angeles, what you have to pay to get a decent seat at a concert is quadruple what you pay here.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Shelby Russ, president and CEO of AOS Interior Environments, is a big booster of his hometown: ‘The things that are wrong with New Orleans can be fixed,’ he said. ‘The things that are right about the city no one else could recreate.

AROUND THE REGION

Shreveport moves forward with two Amtrak locations

BY LIZ SWAINE Staff writer

The head of the public transit agency that serves ShreveportBossier said the dominoes are still falling on getting Amtrak to run through the area, a process that he acknowledges is neither quick nor easy.

“What I will tell you is that at this point in time the city of Shreveport is confident enough that we are moving forward with an agreement,” said SporTran CEO Dinero Washington.

Efforts to restore passenger rail service along the Interstate 20 corridor date back at least two decades, but the planned route from Dallas to Meridian, Mississippi, is chugging ahead.

The route would have terminals in Shreveport, Monroe and Ruston in Louisiana and Jackson and Vicksburg in Mississippi. It would be a separate section of Amtrak’s Crescent train, which runs between New Orleans and New York.

The I-20 route takes on new significance now that Facebook parent company Meta has begun construction of its $10 billion data center in Richland Parish near Monroe The proposed route would connect that project to similar ones under development in Mississippi and to a microchip facility near Ruston.

In March, the city signed a contract with Amtrak Platform and Facility Design for the design and engineering of an eventual Amtrak station in Shreveport. Washington said he hopes SporTran City, the transit system’s new downtown facility, will fit the bill as the chosen location for a station

The newly rehabbed former Sun Furniture building sits across from the Shreveport Police Department and is a stone’s throw from the SporTran public transit terminal

The building has offices and conference space and will open a food hall in July, Washington said.

While mum on the tenants he calls them an “exciting development.” Washington said the Texas Avenue location also connects “all our modes of transportation at one corner,” and that other property in the area is being acquired. In addition, the section of Texas

Avenue from Elvis Presley Boulevard to Gary Street to the west of the terminal is being reenvisioned.

“How do we totally redevelop that area? How do we go in and make that walkable, bikeable? Maybe look at different parts, basically concrete-based streets, redoing the sidewalks down the street, facade

improvements,” Washington said.

There are already computer renderings of what a platform off the back SporTran City might look like There is a fallback

But there is a Plan B downtown in case the Texas Avenue space doesn’t pass Amtrak muster It’s Princess Park at Louisiana Street, the former site of the city’s oldest and largest passenger train station Union Station, built in the late 1800s, was the hub of the famous KCS Southern Belle and at one time hosted upward of 30 passenger trains per day. The station burned in 1969, and only the concrete platforms remain The location, though spacious with ample parking, would require the construction of a new train station.

Plenty of work still to do

In the meantime, the team will continue working with the owners of the tracks, CPKC and Union Pacific “We do feel as if both railroads will support us in this effort,” said

Washington.

Getting the Amtrak Mardi Gras service from New Orleans to Mobile, Alabama, up and running in 2025 was the state’s priority, and Washington admits the popularity of the new service helps north Louisiana’s project. Amtrak reports that 3,264 passengers rode the Mardi Gras route in its first week.

“The successful launch of the Mardi Gras route confirmed a lot of what we’ve been saying for years,” said John Spain, vice chair of the Southern Rail Commission, the 4-decade-old nonprofit that advocates for passenger rail expansion and restoration in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama. “It’s an efficient and beautiful route that lends credibility to the others we want to do.”

The success of that route made Amtrak more interested in the Dallas to Meridian line, Washington said.

“There is a lot of work still to be done, a lot of questions still to be answered, but the one thing that we can say is we work with the state, we work with the city, and they’re putting money behind the things that we’ve been talking about,” he said.

Washington said he expects the new line will be added in less than five or 10 years.

“We have a contract with an architect at this point in time, the city of Shreveport has been told the location was OK, and we’re building a station,” he said. “I don’t know a better way to put it to you.”

Stakeholders believe the I-20 line could happen before the one connecting New Orleans to Baton Rouge.

“The infrastructure is in very good condition between Meridian and Dallas,” said John Robert Smith, chair of Transportation for America, a policy consultant for the Southern Rail Commission. “And that route doesn’t have to travel over a swamp like the line between New Orleans and Baton Rouge.” Email Liz Swaine at liz.swaine@ theadvocate.com.

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STAFF PHOTO By JILL PICKETT

Dinero Washington, head of the public transit agency that serves Shreveport-Bossier, said he hopes SporTran City, the transit system’s new downtown facility, will fit the bill as the chosen location for a train station as efforts to restore passenger rail service along the Interstate 20 corridor gains traction.

STAFF PHOTO By LIZ SWAINE

Concrete platforms are the only things that remain of Union Station adjacent to Princess Park in Shreveport. The historic train depot burned down in 1969.

Washington

NATION &WORLD

Sports Illustratedgetting back in thegameafter scandal, layoffs

BY STEPHENBATTAGLIO

Los Angeles Times (TNS)

One of the hottest tickets for the events surrounding Super Bowl LX in February wasa party thrown at the Cow Palace in San Francisco by Sports Illustrated, where attendees could hang with Justin Bieber,Kevin Hart and Travis Kelce.

Themagazine’slogoand ateam of models from its latest annual swimsuit issue were present at another pre-game bash at the Michelin three-star restaurant Quince.

Sports Illustrated journalists were getting requests from peers looking to score invites to the gatherings, which symbolized a turnaround at the 72-year-old title. Just two years earlier, many of its writers were told their jobs were being eliminated.

For decades, SI was where every sports journalist aspired to work, hoping to become the next Frank DeFordorGarySmith,whose 32-year career at the magazine is highly revered. Cover images of Muhammad Ali, Michael Jordan andother superstarsare emblazoned in the memories of fans who eagerly awaited the title to arrive in the mail each week. For athletes andsportsinstitutions, the cover remains acoveted honor

Now amonthlymagazine,the flagship business of SportsIllustrated is no longerthe first stop for fans lookingfor game analysis or profiles ofathletes,many of whom have assertedgreater control over their images through social media and podcasts.

ABG enlists outside operators to run thebrands. Those opera tors pay an ongoing license fee to ABG, which also takes acut of the revenues.

That was theplan when Authen ticbought Sports Illustrated from Meredith Corp., nowknown as People Inc.

But the famousSports Illustrated namestillresonates with generationsofconsumers andAuthentic has sought ways to capitalize on it, from selling replica covers to opening branded resorthotels in Chicago and Nashville, Tennessee. International editions ofthe magazine havebeen launched in Germany, China and Mexico, with plans to launch in Franceand the U.K.

But Authentic Brands Group, the New York-based companythat purchased Sports Illustrated in 2019 for $110 million, saysthe title is nowthriving after reducing its reliance on advertising and circulation revenue. The privately held firm —which expects $38 billion in global retail sales this year,up from $35 billion in 2025 —does not break out the finances for itsbusinesses but says SI is highly profitable after arocky period. Less than half of SI’srevenue comes from its media business.

“It took us alittle while, and we had acouple of bumps along the way,” Daniel W. Dienst, executive vice chair for Authentic, said in arecent interview from hisNew York office, where aphotoofbaseball legend Hank Aaron taken by acclaimed SI photographer Neil Leifer hangs on the wall behind his desk.

Like otherprint magazines, SI has seen asharp falloff in its circulation, currently at 400,000, down from 3millionin2010. Authentic saysSIhas 52 millionusers amonth on its websiteand 21 million social media followers. ESPN had229 milliondigital users in November

But the famous Sports Illustrated name still resonates with generations of consumers and Authentic has sought ways to capitalize on it, from sellingreplica covers to opening branded resort hotels in Chicago and Nashville, Tennessee. Internationaleditions of the magazine have been launched in Germany,China and Mexico, with plans to launchinFranceand the U.K.

Authentic specializes in acquiring and investinginfamousretail properties thathave foundered.

Afterthe purchase, Authentic entered a$15-million-a-year li censing agreement with Arena Group (atthe time known as Ma ven) to run SportsIllustrated. A New York-baseddigital media company,Arena operated such well-known titles as Men’sJour nal, Parade and TheStreet. But the partnership unraveledwhen Arena used AI for sponsored content on Sports Illustrat ed’s website, which soundedalarm bells at the esteemed publication.

TheArena Groupacknowledged it hired an outsidefirm to create productreviews that usedfakebylines. The scandal coincided with thetermination of its chief executive, RossLevinsohn, whoonce held aleadership role at the Los Angeles Times

Therelationshipwith Authentic worsened when Arena’smajority owner,Manoj Bhargava, took over as interim chiefexecutive The founderof5-Hour Energy, Bhargava tried to fire Sports Illustrated’s unionized editorial staff and renegotiate alower licensing fee from Authentic. He also used themagazine’seditorial pages and website to promote his energy drink business.

The SI media business wasunprofitable under Bhargava and Arena misseda payment to Authentic on itslicensing deal.In

Thefirm has acquired such names as the outerwear retailer Eddie Bauer,BrooksBrothers and Ree bok, and in Januarytook a51% share in thefashion brand Guess.

Louisiana puts its money whereits manufacturing is

“SiteReadiness” is thesecretsauceofeconomicdevelopment.

Recognizing this,Louisiana has takenanimportant step towardslong-term economicdevelopmentby announcing the first 19 locationsthatwill benefit from “FastSites”investment.Backedbythe $150 million SiteInvestmentand Infrastructure ImprovementFund(createdbyAct 365ofthe 2025 Legislative Session) and led by Louisiana Economic Development, FastSites directs millions of dollars toward preparinghigh-quality manufacturing andother sitestocompetenationally formajor projects andemployers

Fiveofthe selected sites arelocated in GreaterNew Orleans. Theseinclude:

AvondaleGlobalGateway (Maritime,Jefferson Parish)

Esperanza (Manufacturing, St.CharlesParish)

Franklinton IndustrialPark (Manufacturing,Washington Parish)

Gulf South Commerce Park (Logistics, St. TammanyParish)

NavalSupport Activity Site (Maritime,Energy/Orleans Parish)

TheFastSites initiativeisdesignedfor long-term impact. Rather than a one-time investment, theprogram operates as revolving capital, withfunds expected to be repaid as sites aresoldorleasedand then reinvested into preparingadditionallocationsfor development. This model helps ensure that Louisiana continuestobuild apipelineofready-to-go sites capable of competing fortransformative projects

March 2024, Arena announced it was shutting downthe print edition of SI. Around the same time, Authentic hired Minute Media, which runs the digital sites Fansidedand Players’ Tribune, to take over Sports Illustrated. Bhargava didn’tgo quietly; according to legalfilings, he threatenedtodeleteSports Illustrated’s archive of intellectual property.

Authentic sued Arena for breaching the SI licensing agreement, which was settled.Manyof thetitle’slaid-off journalists were rehired.

Minute Media has gotten high marksfrom the SI staff for its repair work on the media side of the business.

“It’sbeen along time since we felt like we hadanoperatorand

Working

Saints quarterback DrewBrees graces the coverofthe Dec.3,2018, issue of Sports Illustrated

Staff report

South Louisianabusinesses and nonprofit groups recently announced the following promotions, new hires and resignations.

BatonRouge

Ben Marmande has been hired as the director of corporatebanking for b1Bank. Marmande spent 19 years as market presidentinboth Houston and Baton Rouge for First Horizon andIberiaBank. He also held commercial banking and senior credit leadership roles at Hibernia National Bank.

NewOrleans

Patrick Gillies been namedthe new president and CEO of Easterseals Louisiana, anonprofit that aims to change definitions of disability and make positive differences in people’slives. Gillies previously served as Louisiana’sMedicaid executive director

Fool’sTake: Solid growth, low valuation

Entergy New Orleans named a pairofnew additionstoits executiveteam

SharondaWilliams has been named vice president of regulatory andpublic affairs. Williams was previouslythe vice president of government affairs and general counsel for Loyola University New Orleans

KeaSherman has beennamed vice president of customer service and economic development. Sherman was previously senior policy counsel at VanNess Feldman in Washington, D.C.

The Greater New OrleansSports Foundation announced two new members of its board of directors.

ChristianBolden is thefounder and principal of The Bolden Group, a Northern Virginia-based management consulting firm Bolden previouslyworked as a

of Duty:Mobile. It served more than 633 million users during the fourth quarter of 2025.

staffer for the U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security,which he advised on matters of cybersecurity, digital policyand national security

Dustin Davidson is the secretary of the Louisiana Department of Conservationand Energy Davidson previously worked for the Waterways Council Inc., as astaffer for the House Select Committeeonthe Climate Crisis and the Senate Committee on Small Business andEntrepreneurship and on the legislative staffs of Rep.Garret Graves and U.S. Sens. David Vitter and John Kennedy

JimNelson has been promoted to New Orleans market president for Red River Bank.

all your nonoptional expenses for at least afew months.

Nelson, who has morethan 30 years of experienceinbanking and financial services, was hiredearlier this year as abusiness development executive for the greater New Orleans market. Across Louisiana JasonAnderson has been named executive director of the Louisiana School forMath, Science, andThe Arts, effective July 1. Amember of the faculty at the Natchitoches school for the past 15 years, Anderson servesasits chief academic officer and director of academic affairs.

Dr.Lester Johnson has been named senior vice chancellor of LSU Health Shreveport. Before working as interimchancellor, interimsenior vicechancellorand interim dean of the LSUHS School

growthpotential they have and what their risks and opportunities are

of Medicine, Johnson spent 30 years at Ochsner LSU Health in Monroe as aprofessor and chiefofsurgery

JD Bank elevated two employees to new executive roles. Ryan Vidrine was promoted to senior vice president, commercial banker.Vidrine served as chieftechnology officer and chief operationsofficer of Guaranty Bank prior to its acquisition by JD Bank. Tyler Marcantel has been promoted to assistant vice president, office manager. Marcantelhas been with thebank

Sea Limited (NYSE: SE) is basedinSingapore, and it’s often referred to as the “Amazon of Southeast Asia.” Its three business units make it atriple threat in thedigital economy:

n Shopee is Southeast Asia’sbiggest e-commerce platform, having processed 13.9 billion orders worth $127 billion in 2025.

n Monee is Sea’s digital financial services platform, lending money to Shopee merchants to help them grow theirbusinesses and offering “buy now,pay later” loans to consumers.Ithad 37 million active borrowersatthe end of 2025, up 40% year over year, and they held $9.2 billion in loans, which was up by awhopping80%.

n Finally,Garena is oneofthe world’stop game development studios. It’sresponsiblefor global smash hits likeFree Fireand Call

Seagenerated arecord $22.9 billion in total revenue during 2025, a36.4% year-over-year increase. It sports astrong balance sheet, ending 2025 with $11.1 billion in cash and equivalentson hand against just $510 million in debt.Bestofall, itsstock is attractively valued, witharecent price-to-sales ratioof2.3, well below its five-year averageof3.7. No company is risk-free, but givenSea’srobust growth and low valuation,it seems asolid opportunity for long-term investors. (The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommendsSea Limited.) Fool’sSchool:Beasmart stockinvestor

Here are some brief guidelines to keep in mind as you invest in stocks:

n Invest only once you’re ready That is, you’velearned alot aboutstocks, don’t have any highinterest-rate debt and have an emergency fundthat can cover

n Have reasonable expectations. Though thestock market has averaged annual gains close to 10% over many decades, any given year could bring aloss. Expect some of your stocks to be losers.

n Invest as much as you can afford, as soon as you can, because your earliest invested dollars have themost time in which to grow for you.

n Seek amargin of safety by aiming to buy stocks when they seem undervalued. Overvalued stocks are morelikely to pull back.

n Don’tact on emotions, selling in apanic or buying greedily without regard to long-term value.

n Avoid risky behaviors, such as buying penny stocks, investing on margin or day-trading. It can also be risky to buy shares in abusiness you don’tunderstand well. It’ssmarttoresearch companies to learnexactly how they maketheir money,how financially healthy they are, how much

n Aim to be along-term investor,hanging on to shares of great companies and/or funds formany years. Learn to be patient.

n Track your performance. If you’re not beating the market over several years, consider just investing in the market itself,via alow-fee index fund.

n Realize that simply investing in index funds, such as an S&P 500 index fund or awhole-market index fund, is asound strategy for every investor

n Keep learning. The moreyou know,the better your portfolio might perform. Consider reading about great investors and great companies; they can teach you a lot.

My Dumbest Investment: Broke my own rule

My most regrettable investing move?

Well, Iset arulefor myself when purchasing individual stocks. If thestock doubled in value, I’dsell halfmyshares, recouping my total investment and leaving theother halfinthe

to gain —orlose. Sell it all, and youmight miss outonfuture gains. Selling some, as you liked to do,can be

BY JONAH MEADOWS Staff writer

Few career paths follow a straight line. Instead, over the years their curves and bends are shaped by early experiences unexpected opportunities and evolving ambitions.

This week, in our occasional One Big Question feature, we asked Louisiana business executives and entrepreneurs from a range of diverse backgrounds, “What job would you have if you weren’t in your current career?”

The alternative lives they imagine, it turns out, share many key elements with their actual jobs. And throughout all their answers, we found a common thread: a desire to build, create and leave behind a legacy — whether that’s through art, business or community.

The following answers have been edited for clarity and length

EDGAR ‘DOOK’ CHASE IV

Owner and president, Chase Hospitality Group; executive chef and operator, Dooky Chase’s Restaurant

I have a background in economics, finance and accounting, and I worked in corporate America for Entergy Corp. — for about 71/2 years. I loved it. I love the strategy and the finances behind it. So I would be hopefully at Entergy Corp. in a leadership role.

Now, what I wish I could do is totally different. I don’t have the talent or the know-how but I love musicians, I love music, I love their creativity Any time I see a live band, no matter what it is, whether it’s jazz, rhythm and blues, a little more funky, I just love it. I love how they improvise. I love how they feed off each other, much like a chef in the kitchen.

So, I wish I had some musical talent. That’s where I would be.

DR. REBEKAH GEE

Co-founder and CEO, Nest Health; former Louisiana Department of Health secretary I’m so lucky to have a career

ONE BIG QUESTION

where I get to be a caregiver. But if I wasn’t doing that, I would be an interior designer and have a store that was fashion, home design and interior design.

I’ve always been a creative person, and the roles I’ve had in government and as an entrepreneur are about creating new things that don’t exist. That’s where I have strength, and that’s true with design as well.

A designer takes a look at a space and says, “What’s needed here?

What colors go together? What would make this interesting?” That same kind of creative eye is what makes me a good entrepreneur I love design and the creative process. My personal style and ability to decorate have been my creative outlet when I’ve been in other roles, like in government, where obviously creativity is important but that’s

not your primary focus.

TREY TRAHAN

Founder and CEO,

Trahan Architects

I think a lot about the beauty in Louisiana, how this diversity of plant life emerges when you remove invasive species from a piece of land. In that is embedded the element of chance. It’s the last thing most clients or attorneys or contractors want to think about in a building — we’re spending millions of dollars and we want the end result to be predictable. The element of chance typically is associated with liability or exposure and potentially cost. I would love to think about building living systems as an ecologist — how you could remove more invasive species from our lands

owner, employing a brewmaster and all the other things to make that work, I maybe am already living my alternative job path. It might not make as much financial sense as if I was a contractor instead of a broker but it’s been awesome to watch that business mature.

PETER GARDNER

Founder and owner, Gardner Development

If I stopped doing real estate now, I’d want to do something that makes a difference. One thing I’ve thought about a lot recently is putting together a résumé and applying to run NORD (New Orleans Recreation Department) because I’ve got kids and I love New Orleans. I want to see it get better, and I use public facilities, and they’re just as bad as everybody says they are. I think I could turn an organization like that around and make NORD a respectable thing that people would buy into and use. So that would be a slightly unrealistic thing I’d like to do.

HAILEY MELANCON

Co-owner, Atlas Feed Mills

in Louisiana and how all the unpredictable natural species would emerge and create a much more diverse ecology, which I think is all of our definition of beauty

RYAN PECOT

Commercial broker, Stirling; founder and managing partner, Adopted Dog Brewing

I like creating something from nothing. It makes me happy I like the tangible look back and the result. So if I had to pivot, I’d go into construction — actually swinging the hammers pouring the concrete, managing the process, the pro forma, the costing, the negotiating.

I have to throw an asterisk in there because I’m also in the midst of my midlife crisis: I opened a brewery in Lafayette just over three years ago. Being a brewery

I had the full intention to be a school guidance counselor Then after I graduated I basically was like, “Man, no more school for me.” I

PROVIDED PHOTO By REBEKAH GEE

The foyer of the New Orleans home of Nest Health CEO Dr Rebekah Gee, the former secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health and an amateur interior designer ‘I’ve always been

had

strength, and that’s true with design as well,’ Gee says.

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Life-changing care

BR cancer patient received genetically modified cells, went home two weeks later

BY MARGARET DeLANEY Staff writer

Anne Jordan was diagnosed with blood cancer in 2016. After multiple treatments of chemotherapy and radiation, her doctors recommended she consult Dr Nakhle Saba, director of the CAR-T program at Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute in Baton Rouge.

In March, Jordan became the first patient in the region to receive CART cell therapy in an outpatient setting — a milestone for the Lake and for blood cancer patients across Louisiana.

CAR-T cell therapy, or Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy is an FDAapproved treatment for certain blood

cancers that re-engineers a patient’s own immune cells to identify and attack cancer

The process begins by extracting Tcells, or specialized white blood cells, from the patient. In a lab, those cells are genetically modified to identify and attack cancer cells, then multiplied in the millions. The process can take anywhere from three to eight weeks. Jordan waited four weeks.

The day of her infusion was faster than she anticipated.

“It took maybe 15 minutes,” Jordan said. “I thought there would be more fuss.”

Historically, CAR-T therapy required extended hospitalization for monitoring. While the infusion itself is critical, the most complex phase of care occurs in the days following treatment, when patients are closely monitored for immunerelated side effects.

“Cellular immunotherapy has significantly advanced how we treat blood cancers,” Saba said. “What this represents for our community is the ability to deliver highly personalized treatment, while keeping patients connected to the people and support systems that matter most.”

New products, improved detection of side effects and patient management have made CAR-T cell therapy safer — and more cost-effective — in an outpatient setting, according to a National Library of Medicine study

Jordan was an ideal candidate for the new program not only because of her diagnosis and previous unsuccessful attempts to get rid of her cancer, but also because she had her sister, a former nurse practitioner, as her caregiver

After 48 hours at the hospital, the Lake

ä See CARE, page 2X

Protecting kids from the ‘mosquito scourge’

BY SCOTT HAMILTON Contributing writer

This is the first in a series from Dr Scott Hamilton, director of the Pediatric Emergency Department at Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center, offering practical guidance on preventing and treating illnesses and injuries so kids can stay healthy and out of the emergency department.

Soon your kids will be encountering the deadliest wild beast known to man. I’m not talking about bears, or lions or tigers, not sharks or snakes, hippos or crocodiles.

This vicious scourge is the mosquito.

Worldwide, the mosquito kills more humans than any other animal by transmitting diseases with its bite, with most of those deaths occurring in Asia and Africa, where malaria is more common. With spring rains and warm weather, mosquitoes bloom along with flowers and trees. They lay their eggs in standing water, and two weeks later, their progeny take to the air as mature flyers. They’ll be looking for blood the blood of you and your kids. And with that warm weather, everyone will be outdoors more, ready to become a mosquito’s meal.

The worst part of mosquito bites for kids is itching. When they stick you with their needlelike nose, they inject an anticoagulant so the blood flowing doesn’t clot.

It’s that anticoagulant that causes allergic reactions in many people. Minutes after the mosquito has left with a bellyful of your blood, the itching begins.

When kids itch, they scratch. When they scratch, they can tear their skin. We have bacteria on the surface of our skin and when we tear it, those bacteria can be driven into the wound and start growing and spreading.

Within a few days, skin starts showing signs of that infection: swelling, redness, pain and, later, pus. Sometimes those infections get bad enough that children need to be admitted into the hospital for IV antibiotics. Occasionally they need surgery to drain deep abscesses These are the bad cases we see in the emergency department.

If your child starts itching from mosquito bites, wash the bite sites and cover them with antibiotic ointment and bandages. Keep their fingernails trimmed and clean.

If kids can’t sleep at night due to the itch, or are just going nuts with it, anti-allergy medications

See HAMILTON, page 2X

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Hamilton

PROVIDED PHOTOS

Anne Jordan, center, stands with Dr Nakhle Saba, left, director of the CAR-T program at Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute in Baton Rouge, and Susan Foret, vice president of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health and Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute. Jordan went home from cancer treatment after two weeks of receiving genetically modified cells with Dr Saba

Anne Jordan, right, became the first patient in the region to receive CAR-T cell therapy in an outpatient setting

The Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health and Our Lady of the Lake CAR-T cell therapy team stands with Anne Jordan, center, at the Cancer Institute in Baton Rouge.

HEALTH MAKER

Family’s bipolar experience led to improved research

Large donation to mental health research is getting even bigger

BY JAMES POLLARD Associated Press

NEW YORK Jon Stanley considers himself fortunate among bipolar disorder patients. He eventually responded to the right drug cocktail after self-described “fullbrained mania” almost 40 years ago left him naked in a New York City deli, convinced electricity coursed through the floor

Others face a longer road to medication. Severe mental health care like his was “more art than science,” the retired lawyer remembered being told back then. Doctors would rotate through medicines to “see if anything stuck.” The experience inspired his late parents, Ted and Vada Stanley, to donate hundreds of millions of dollars toward research into treatments for bipolar and schizophrenia during their lifetimes.

Now, their philanthropic legacy continues with a renewed gift for a biomedical collaborative working to understand such diseases and identify therapies. The Stanley Family Foundation announced another $280 million for the Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research at Broad Institute earlier this month, bringing its total contributions to the Massachusettsbased nonprofit over $1 billion.

The dedication reflects both their belief in its unique teambased approach and Jon’s fidelity to his billionaire retailer father’s desired application of the wealth he amassed selling collectibles.

“He said he wanted his ‘Manhattan Project,’” Jon recalled. “And so, the only question was: who was gonna be Oppenheimer?”

The Broad Institute launched in 2004 to tackle disease research with the combined forces of faculty from MIT, Harvard and other scientists. It has attracted prominent philanthropists, including founding donors Eli and Edythe Broad as well as former Google CEO Eric Schmidt and his wife, Wendy The Stanleys’ giving has gone almost exclusively to the Broad Institute — a staggering commitment to one recipient. This latest unanticipated gift funds another seven years of its work to determine how these illnesses develop. By using rapid advancements in DNA sequencing, the goal is to accelerate new interventions, according to the Broad Institute’s Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research co-director Ben Neale.

“We’ve made major discoveries of genes that dramatically increase the risk of developing these illnesses,” Neale said “We know we only have a small fraction of what is out there to be discovered.”

Personal connection

Jon grew up along the Connecticut coast as father’s consumer products company, MBI, grew more successful. The money, he said, “kept getting bigger.” But Jon’s father informed him early on he’d give most of the fortune away

A focused philanthropic outlet came when his son developed bipolar disorder at 19. Jon first

CARE

Continued from page 1X

team set Jordan and her sister up with a housing program and regular appointments scheduled to monitor her progress.

During her stay near the hospital, Jordan had a high-grade fever that brought her to the emergency room. She remained in close contact with Saba throughout her recovery — even texting him updates on a nightly basis.

“A large part of our outpatient care is also about making sure our emergency department is prepared when CAR-T patients come in for help,” Saba said

By CHARLES KRUPA

Benjamin Neale, co-director of the Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research, stands near laboratory space at the Broad Institute.

experienced mania at a London educational program while attending Williams College. He harbored dreams of making millions by setting up student housing for Americans studying abroad. But he quickly spent all his money, flipping from mania to depression.

The mania worsened when

he returned to his liberal arts school campus in Massachusetts.

He freaked out his girlfriend on a New York City visit with comments about secret agents following him. After three days wandering Manhattan without any money he wound up in a deli where his body hurt from imagined electric shocks he felt jumping onto him.

“So, I did the logical thing: I took my clothes off. And that’s how the cops found me,” Jon said.

He stayed six weeks at a psychiatric hospital in 1987, occasionally spending time in the “rubber room.” Lithium, which he’d already been prescribed, didn’t work alone. The addition of an anticonvulsant called Tegretol did the trick.

Neither drug was developed to treat bipolar disorder Nor did doctors have the genetic understandings of the disease they do now — such as its common risk factors with schizophrenia, an insight driven by the Broad Institute.

Jon’s parents wanted to change that.

Parents’ giving goals

Still, Jon said, his dad didn’t “just start writing checks everywhere.”

His parents first founded the Stanley Medical Research Institute. As Ted aged, however, Jon said he decided to give nearly everything to the Broad Institute.

Ted had become frustrated with academic research models where professors string together grants, working separately on similar causes that fall within a funder’s interests. He wanted to put all his eggs in one basket

“We give all the money to Broad and they’re all looking at the one problem,” he said. “It’s much more like a wartime economy.”

His father devoted $825 million altogether But the stock market, where he’d invested his philanthropic funds, performed better than expected. There was additional money to commit.

Jon, one of three Stanley Family Foundation trustees, held no reservations about Broad receiving even more. He considers it his obligation to do “what my dad would want if he was here.”

“He didn’t think he needed all that he made,” Jon said “But he was very interested in making more so he could give it away So who am I to overrule what he thought?”

Delivering CAR-T therapy in an outpatient setting has been a long-time goal for the cancer team at the Lake.

Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute first introduced CAR-T therapy in May 2025 through participation in a clinical research trial, building the foundation necessary to expand into outpatient delivery.

“Having this treatment available in Baton Rouge made everything easier for me and my family,” Jordan said. “I was able to receive highly specialized care while staying close to home and surrounded by support.

Saba played a principal role in bringing this level of care to blood cancer patients in the Baton Rouge

The role of medical philanthropy

Funding to understand and treat mental illness might appear robust However, experts caution that the combined support from the government, private industry and philanthropy pales in comparison to the burden caused by diseases such as bipolar disorder.

The federal government provided more than $2 billion annually for mental health between 2019 and 2024. But studies show schizophrenia alone costs the U.S. more than $300 billion a year — partially due to fragmented care systems that don’t treat people proactively enough, according to Sylvie Raver, a senior director at the Milken Institute’s Science Philanthropy Accelerator for Research and Collaboration.

Raver said there’s been a decline in support for serious mental illness at the National Institutes of Health. The existing funding, according to Raver, can

region. Susan Foret, vice president of the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health and Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute, says the new offering of CAR-T cell therapy reinforces the organization’s efforts to deliver highly specialized oncology care across Louisiana

Just two weeks after receiving regenerated cells to destroy the blood cancer in her body Jordan was headed home with her sister.

“I need to get back,” Jordan said, “to my life, my church group, my friends.”

Email Margaret DeLaney at margaret.delaney@ theadvocate.com.

be siloed and isn’t necessarily targeted toward the needs of impacted families like the Stanleys.

“When you marry capacity, like what the family has, and understanding and personal resonance with the topic, like they have as well, philanthropy is really primed to do exciting things,” said Raver who leads brain disease and mental health portfolios.

Pharmaceutical companies, another research funder, are bound by obligations to turn profits for shareholders and bring products to market. Neale, the Broad Institute member, said private industry’s difficulty in developing drugs chilled their enthusiasm in this area.

These are, he acknowledged, “some of the most difficult problems in all of medicine.”

“We don’t even understand where the fundamental pathology is, the thing that’s giving rise to the illness,” he said.

Neale hopes nonprofit research-

HAMILTON

Continued from page 1X

like cetirizine or loratidine can help. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen also ease itching, like they ease pain.

ers catalyze the rest of the field. His goal this next decade is to jumpstart clinical trials for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder interventions. Anything less and he said, “we will have failed.” His team will also be recruiting enough people with bipolar who carry genetic variants to study whether their mutations mean anything.

The more they show what’s possible, Neale said, the more players they’ll draw to their effort.

Jon, a founding board member of the nonprofit Treatment Advocacy Center, has been around long enough that he tries not to get too excited about any breakthrough. His family’s confidence in the Broad Institute stems not from its successes but from its processes.

“It’s not just shaking a test tube and seeing if it turns blue or red,” Jon said. “They’ll notice things and analyze the data in a way that, even if it doesn’t work, they’ll learn something.”

Apply moisturizing creams as well, as softer skin is harder to tear The best treatment is prevention. Mow grass weekly to minimize water trapping in your lawn. Empty or drain standing water from flowerpots, puddles and old

tires. Install fountains in ponds and birdbaths: mosquitoes won’t lay eggs in moving water Spray your kids with DEET-containing repellent when they go out. Spring is here and the beasts will soon be loose and after your blood.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

The Louisiana Health section is focused on providing in-depth, personal accounts of health in the state.This section looks at medical innovations, health discoveries, state and national health statistics and reexamining tried and true methods on ways to live well.

Health editions will also profile people who are advancing health for the state of Louisiana. Do you have a health story? We want to hear from you. Email margaret.delaney@ theadvocate.com to submit health questions, stories and more.

A scientist works in the Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research laboratory space.

A portrait of Ted and Vada Stanley hangs in the lobby of the Broad Institute on March 17, which houses the Stanley Center for Psychiatric Research in Cambridge, Mass.

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTOS

Eat Fit LiveFit

Festival-ready Louisiana flavor: ShrimpQuinoa Jambalaya

FestivalseasonisinfullswingacrossLouisiana,and thatmeansonething:jambalaya.Butwhilethis beloveddishisrichinflavor,itcanalsobeheavyon carbsandcalories.EnterJimUrdialesofMestizo,who offersalighter,nutrient-packedalternativewithhisShrimp QuinoaJambalaya.Byswappingsomeofthequinoafor zucchiniandsquash,Urdialeskeepsallthesavory,smoky flavorsofjambalayawhiletrimmingdownthecarbs, makingitperfectforafestivespringmealthatwon’t weighyoudown.

Thisdishbalanceshealthandindulgencewithout sacrificingtaste.Shrimpaddsleanprotein,whilequinoa providesfiberandessentialnutrients.Withatouchof smokychipotlesauceandacolorfulmixofvegetables,it’s avibrant,festival-readytwistonaLouisianaclassic—easy enoughtomakeathome,yetfulloftheflavorsthatmake jambalayaacelebrationoneveryplate.

ShrimpQuinoaJambalaya Makes8servings

2tablespoonslightoliveoil

½cupchipotlesauce(suchasTabascoChipotlePepper Sauce),divided

1cupcubedzucchini

1cupcubedsquash

1cupcannedblackbeans,drainedandrinsed 3cupsquinoa,cooked

Dashofseasalt

16jumboshrimp,peeled,withtail-on(or—Makeitvegan! Sub1cupofcubedtofufora100%plant-basedjambalaya)

Inaskilletovermedium-highheat,heatoliveoil,six tablespoonsofchipotlesauce,zucchini,andsquash,and cookuntilsoft.Mixinblackbeans,quinoaandsalt.

Sautéforthreeminutes.Sautéshrimp(ortofu) separatelywiththeremainingchipotlesauce.Placeon topofquinoaandservewarm.

PERSERVING:170calories,5gramsfat,0.5gramsaturatedfat,490mgsodium,23 gramscarbohydrate(19gramsnetcarbs),4gramsfiber,1gramsugar(0addedsugar), 11gramsprotein.GF

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In 2024, over 18 million U.S. households reported being food insecure at some time during the year At times during the year,food-insecure households were unable to provide enough food to meet the needs of all their members because they had insufficient money or resources, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Between 2022 and 2024, an average 17.7% of Louisianans were food insecure, defined as adults whoreported thatthe food that theybought always, usuallyor sometimes did not last —and they didn’thave money to getmore.

The state is one of six with food insecurity rates higher than the national average, which sits at 13.3%.

Food insecurity is associated with chronic and acute health problems and healthcare needs in children,according to theCenters for Disease Controland Prevention. Additionally, food-insecure adults are at ahigherrisk of developing several chronic conditions, including coronary heartdisease, diabetes, obesityand cancer

Food insecurityis calculated by theCDC usingthe behavioral riskfactor surveillance system, ahealthrelated telephone survey

These parishes had thehighest percentage of adultsreporting food insecurity, in descending order: n East Carroll Parish with 46.8%; n Madison Parish with

BY THENUMBERS

42.6%; n Claiborne Parish with 40%; n Tensas Parish with 38.3%; n Morehouse Parish with 35.4%; n Bienville Parish with 35.1%; n Concordia Parish with 33.7%; n St. Helena Parish with 33.4%; n Red River Parish with 33.2%; n Webster Parish with 31.5%; n St. LandryParishwith 31.2%; n Avoyelles Parish with 30.9% n and Franklin Parish with 30.8%

These parishes had the lowest percentages of food insecurity in the state, in ascending order:

n St.Tammany Parish with 15.9%; n Cameron Parish with 16.2%;

n St. Charles Parish with 17.2%; n Ascension Parish with 17.3%; n Livingston Parish with 18.7%; n Bossier and Lafayette

parishes with 19.4%

PhotobyEmilyEickho

Tulane studylinks heartriskand hipfractures

BY MARGARET DELANEY Staff writer

Postmenopausalwomen face a high riskofbonefractures. Due to declines in estrogenlevels, which can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis, even a low-impactfall can result in a serious hip, back or wrist injury.Anestimated1 in 3women over 50 will experienceafracture due to bone lossintheir lifetime.

Anew study from Tulane University found that heart health may affect fractureriskafter menopause, with womenata higher risk of cardiovascular diseasemore likely to experience hip and other major bone fractures.

The association between cardiovascular disease risk and fractures was alsostronger in women under 65, compared with women 65 and older Ochsner expands Eat Fitprogram

Ochsner Health is expanding Ochsner Eat Fit options systemwide to make nutritious food easiertofind and moreaffordable across its facilities.

Building on the long-standing Eat Fit initiative,the health system is increasing the visibility andavailabilityofEat Fitmenu items while offering qualifying options at up to 50% off standard retail pricing.

The initiative spans dining and retail spaces throughout Ochsner facilities, from cafés and micromarkets to beverageand food vending machines, ensuringthat patients, employees, visitors and guests can easily identify and choose Eat Fit options.

Spend Behavioral Health Day with La. association Rally at the Baton RougeCapitol at A.Z. Gus Young Park, North Third Street, from 9a.m. to noon on April 27 with LouisianaMental Health Association and the Foundation for Suicide Prevention-La. Chapter.Wear white for behavioralhealth. Lunch and avendor event to follow the rally Register for the event at the LouisianaMentalHealthAssociation’swebsite.

Anew studyfrom Tulane University found that hearthealth mayaffect fracture

disease more likely to experience hip and other major bone fractures.

AARP NewOrleans hosts free linedancing class

AARP NewOrleans is hostinga “Keep it movin’and groovin’”series of one-hour dance classes starting at10a.m. April18, May 16, June 20 and July 18 at theGernonBrown Recreation Center,1001Harrison Ave.

The classteaches steps to hiphop, country/western, R&B, zydeco, New Orleans’ favorites and “oldie’s but goodies,” according to arelease from AARP

Membership is not requiredtoattend the event. Register at aarp.org.

N.O.hosts national summit for lung cancer

The thirdannualAfrican Ameri-

can Lung Cancer Patient &Care-

giver SummitinNew Orleans is set for April 23-25 at theMarriottWarehouse Arts District. The weekend-longevent will focuson “survivorship, emerging treatments,clinical trials, environmental andclean-air justice, public policy,AIincare, mental wellness, financialnavigation, caregiver support and patient advocacy.” Theevent is freefor lungcancer patientsand caregivers and includes meals,hotel accommodationsand travel andlearning materials

Health Notesisan occasional listing of health happenings around Louisiana. Havesomething you’dlike to share? Contact us at margaret. delaney@theadvocate.com

PlayingTetriscan help tackle memories of trauma,trial finds

Tribune News Service

LONDON Playing Tetris could help reduce distressing memories of trauma, astudy has found.

Health workers who played the classic computer game as part of their treatment experienced fewer flashbacks, researcherssaid.

Experts are now hoping to test the method, which they describe as “accessible, scalable andadaptable,” on alarger group of people

The trial, carried out by researchers in the UK and Sweden, included 99 NHS staff exposedto trauma at work —such as witnessing deaths —during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Some 40 patients weregiven the treatment, which involved playing Tetris, known as imagerycompeting task intervention (ICTI)

The group were asked to play a slow version of the classic game while briefly recalling atraumatic

memory They were thenaskedtouse their mind’seye to imagine theTetris grid and visualizethe blocks.

TheICTI methodisthought to weaken thevividness of theintrusive memories by occupying the brain’svisuospatial areas, which help it to analyze and understand physical space

Emily Holmes, aprofessor of psychology at Uppsala University wholed thestudy,said: “Evena single, fleeting intrusive memory of past trauma can exert apowerfulimpact in daily life by hijacking attention and leaving people at the mercy of unwanted and intrusive emotions

“By weakening the intrusive aspect of these sensory memories viathis brief visual intervention, people experience fewer trauma imagesflashing back.”

The remaining patients either listened to music by Mozart to help al-

leviate stress, along with podcasts about the composer,orreceived standard treatment.

The study,published in The LancetPsychiatry,found that those whoreceived theICTItreatment had 10 times fewer flashbacks comparedtoother groupswithin four weeks After six months, some 70% reported having no intrusive memoriesatall.

The treatment alsohelped tackle symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder

Holmes added: “Weare delighted to have made arealbreakthrough by showing this intervention works.

“It is far more than just playing Tetris, and while it is simple to use, it’s been acomplicated process to refine and develop.

“The interventionfocuses on our mental imagery,not words, and is designedtobeasgentle, briefand practical as possible to fit into peo-

ple’sbusy lives.

“Wehope to expand our research so it canbeput into practice by determiningits effectivenessfor abroader range of people and scenarios.”

CharlotteSummers, director of theVictor Phillip Dahdaleh Heart &LungResearchInstitute in the U.K. and professor of intensive care medicine at the University of Cambridge, said: “Every day healthcare workers acrossthe world are recurrently exposed, to traumatic events in thecourse of their work, impacting the mental andphysical well-being of those who care foruswhen we are unwell.

“Ata time when globalhealth care systemsremain under intense pressure, the discovery of a scalable digitalinterventionthat promotes the well-being of health professionals experiencing workrelated traumatic events is an ex-

citing step forward.”

The team is now exploring ways to test ICTI on larger and more diverse groups,aswellaslooking at options for anon-guided version of the game.

Tayla McCloud, research lead for digitalmentalhealth at Wellcome, which funded the study,said:

“These results areimpressive for such asimple-to-use intervention.

“If we can getsimilarly strong results in bigger trials, this could have an enormous impact.

“It’srare to see something so accessible, scalable and adaptable acrosscontexts. It doesn’trequire patients to put theirtrauma into words andeventranscends language barriers.

“This study is akey example of whyWellcome is investing in a wide range of mental health interventions, so that in the future everyone will have access to treatments that work for them.”

PHOTO PROVIDED By TULANE UNIVERSITy

risk after menopause, withwomen at ahigher risk of cardiovascular

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

Ochsner is starting anew healthyfood incentive program that discounts EatFit diningoptions by 50%. Pictured above is lunchtime at Ochsner Baptist recently in NewOrleans.

Your wishes,your voice: Ochsner doctors encourage familiestoplanahead forNational Healthcare Decisions Day

Dr.SusanNelson,medicaldirectorofpalliativecareforOchsnerHealthNetwork,encouragesalladultstocreateanadvancehealthcaredirective.

By Amanda McElfresh amcelfresh@theadvocate.com

Thisstory is broughttoyou by

OchsnerHealth.

Every year on April 16,National Healthcare DecisionsDay serves as a reminderthatmedical emergencies rarely arrivewith warning. When theyoccur the decisions surrounding treatmentoften must be made within minutes.For healthcare providers, includingthoseinOchsner emergency departments,the dayhighlights a simple yetpowerful message: Conversations about medical wishes should happen long beforeacrisis unfolds

While manypeople assume advance care planning is only necessary forolder adults or thosefacingserious illnesses, healthcareproviderssay thatbelief is amisconception.

“Everybody needs to have their wishes knownatleast by the time theyreach middle age. No one knows whatyou want to do betterthan you,” said Foster Kordisch, MD, emergency medicinemedicaldirectorand presidentof medical staff at Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center

would want resuscitation or prefer to allow natural death in certaincircumstances. It canbenotarized or signed by twowitnesses who arenot relatedtothe individual addressedinthe will.

Amedical powerofattorneydesignates someone to make healthcaredecisions if apatientisunabletocommunicate theirwishes.

“The person youdesignate as your healthcare powerofattorneycan change throughout your life,”Maiocchisaid. “I encouragepeople to choosesomebody who is reallygoingtolistentotheir goals. They have to be able to honor whatyou decide, even if it is not whattheywould choosefor themselves.We’re neverreally readytolosealovedone,but oneofthe most beautiful and selfless thingswecan do for them is honor their wishes.”

FosterKordisch,MD Emergencymedicinemedical directorandpresidentofmedical staffatOchsnerLafayette GeneralMedicalCenter

“The main thing to remember is that thesedecisions will be extremely individualized,”Dr. Kordisch continued. “There aredefinitely some decisions everyone should think about.Doyou want to be on aventilatorlong-term?Doyou want to be an organdonor? Having thatinformation canbesobeneficial foreveryone if acatastrophe happens.”

Madison Maiocchi, FNP-C,a hospiceand palliativecareprovider at Ochsner MedicalCenter-BatonRouge, said advance care planning often begins with reflecting on personal priorities andwhatqualityoflifemeans to eachperson.

“I ask people, ‘Whatismost importanttoyou as an illnessprogresses or asudden illnessoccurs? Do you want to maintain your abilitytolive independently?Would youbecomfortable living in aresidential care home or having people takecare of you?’” Maiocchi said. “Those questions and conversations are agood waytothink about what your goals are.”

The third document, LaPOST, provides more detailed medical guidance and must be completed with a healthcareprovider. It outlines severalpreferences,including CPR, mechanicalventilation, artificial nutrition and more LaPOSTisdocumented on a standardized form thattravels with the patient, allowingmedical teams to quickly understand apatient’swishes if an emergency occurs. At Ochsner Health, the form is also enteredintoanelectronic registry thatallows physicians and advanced practice providersacrossthe system to quickly access a patient’s wishes, with efforts underwayto expand similar accessstatewide.

Maiocchiencourages patients to revisitthesedocuments at least once ayear, or whenevertheir health or lifecircumstances change.

“People experience lifechanges,orreceiveanew diagnosis,orsee health improvements.Those situations canprompt them to reevaluate whattheywantto do.That’scompletely fair and something thathappensoften,” she said.

MadisonMaiocchi,FNP-C

Maiocchi said advance care planning in Louisiana centers on three primary documents: aliving will, amedical powerofattorneyand portable medicalorders, known as LaPOST.

Aliving will outlines aperson’sgeneral wishes forcare, including whether they

Emergency physicians at Ochsner hospitals saythe absence of thesedirectives can lead to toughconversations when it’s time fordecisions to be made. Dr.Kordischsaidthe protocol is forphysicians to focusonproviding appropriate,patient-centered, life-sustaining care.Theyalsorely on apatient’sfamilyto help determinewhatthe personmay want To help guide thoseconversations,physicians often ask relativestoreflectonthe patient’svalues

“If thereisnodocumentation,you always

try to frame thediscussion as whatthe patient wouldwant,”Dr. Kordisch said. “You have to givethem an honest outlook of how youthink thingswillgo. It is really hard becausenobodywants to be thepersonwho tells the doctor not to try to save someone’s life. It seems to help people emotionally when we approachitfromthe standpointof honoring the person’swishes in thebest way theyknowhow.”

J. Michael Cuba,MD, system chair of emergency medicine and chair at Ochsner Medical Center –New Orleans,said thatinthe absence of advance care documents, physicians must balancetheir own instincts to provide treatmentwith the severityofthe patient’sinjury or illnessand feedback theyget from family members. Dr.Cuba said thatoften means emergency physicians at Ochsner hospitals takea “thoughtful pause” when trying to decide the best next steps “Myjob is to do lifesavingprocedures butI realize that’snot always aligned witha patient’swishes.I have to ask families what the patienthas told them, or what they think the personwould want to happen next.Unfortunately,the pressureisoften on families becausethose conversations have not taken place,”Dr. Cuba said. “That’swhy Ireally encouragepeople to talk to their families and have the LaPOSTdocumentavailable when apatienthas alifelimiting illness wheneverpossible.It’snot just aboutyou andyour ownbody.It’salsoabout preparing your lovedones so theydon’thavetodeal with additional stress.”

“Justbecauseyou decide something on paper doesnot meanyou can’tchangethose wishes verbally.You canabsolutelysay you want something different. Thesedocuments do notbackyou into acorner,” shesaid. “Thingshappen allthe time and happen very quickly. If youdesiresomething different, youcan vocalizethosenew wishes to your healthcare team.”

By openly discussing personal wishes andcompleting theappropriate documents,people can ensuretheir healthcarereflects theirvalues while easing the emotional burden on family.National HealthcareDecisions Dayis a meaningful reminder thatthese conversations areone of themost thoughtfuland empoweringsteps people cantakefor themselves and thosewho care about them the most

TheFiveWishesof AdvanceCarePlanning

ThepersonIwanttomakecare decisionsforme Thisallowsyoutonamesomeone youtrusttomakemedicaldecisions foryouifyouareunabletodoso (healthcarepowerofattorney).

Thekindofmedicaltreatment Iwantordon’twant Here,youcanexpressyourpreferencesforspecifictypesofmedical careyouwantwhenyouareunable tocommunicateandnotexpectedto getbetter(livingwill).

We’reneverreallyreadyto losealovedone,butone ofthemostbeautifuland selflessthingswecandofor themishonortheirwishes.

MadisonMaiocchi,FNP-C Hospiceandpalliativecare OchsnerMedicalCenter-BatonRouge

Maiocchi emphasized that thoseconversationscan begin with simple questions thatestablish abroad framework forwhat kind of care apersonwouldliketoreceive. It’soften easier to talk about thesedelicate topics when people aremedically stable and not facing an immediate decision. She added thatpeople canchange their minds in the moment if an emergency does occur and theyhavethe abilitytocommunicate

HowcomfortableIwanttobe Thispartfocusesonyourcomfort andpainmanagement.Itallowsyou tospecifyhowyouwanttobecared forifyou’reinpain,orhowyouwant youremotionalandphysicalcomfort tobeprioritized.

HowIwantpeopletotreatme Thissectionaddressesyourpersonal andemotionalneeds,suchashow youwanttobetreatedbythose aroundyou:yourfamily,friends andcaregivers.

WhatIwantmylovedones toknow

Thefinalwishallowsyoutoshare yourthoughts,feelingsandfinal hopesforyourfamilyandlovedones, tohelpthemunderstandyourendof-lifedecisions

OchsnerHealthistheleadingnonprofithealthcareproviderinLouisiana,MississippiandacrosstheGulfSouth, deliveringexpertcareatits47hospitalsandmorethan370healthandurgentcarecenters.Tolearnmoreabout howOchsnerempowerspeopletogetwellandstaywell,visitochsner.org

BRIDGING THEGAP

Gen-Zer is in charge of theNew Orleans Museum of Art’s senior program

BY WILLIE SWETT Staff writer

Kimbrielle Boult didn’tthink she was moving back to New Orleansafter college. After graduating with adegreeinart historyand visual culture from Bard College in upstate New York, Boult lived in New York City for afew monthswith thegoalof workinginagallery or amuseum.

But Boult missedthe specificrhythm of New Orleans. Shewas not really “a New York girl,” she realized. Since moving back to New Orleans in 2023, she has started paying more attention to what makes her so drawn to her hometown

Her job is abig help, shesays Now 23 years old, Boult organizes classes for older adults at the New OrleansMuseum of Art as part of the Art Thrives program, which she calls the museum’s “55+ club.” The program, which was established in 2022, has art workshops that last around eight weeks for adults over 55, featuring visiting artistsand culminating in afinal showcase of the participants’art.The classes typically have around 16 to 18 students.

In connection withthe program, Boult also organizes amonthly conversation in the fall, called the EldersSacred Talk, with members of different New Orleans communities, including Mardi Gras Indians and older artists.

In her role, Boult says she learns about New Orleans history and traditions from the participants.

“I learned alot from attending the Elders Sacred Talk series and from talking to the teaching artists,” she said.

Boult said some people havehistorically notgone to NOMA because they didn’tfeel like it was for them—she hopes to help change that.

“Being ayoung Black person from New Orleans, Ithink thatmyface is afamiliar face. Ithink it’safriendly face,” she said.

Having worked at thefront desk at the museum and as agallery attendant, she says she realized there were ways the museum could specifically be more welcomingtoolder people, something she hopes to help accomplish throughthe ArtThrives program.

Tappingintothe creative vein

The most recentArt Thrives workshop that Boult helped organize focused on clay and wiresculpturesand wasdoneinconnection withanexhibit of the work of Hayward Oubre, an American modernist sculptorwho was thefirst student to graduate

with aBachelor of FineArtsdegree from Dillard University

“I was like, ‘OK, clay andwire are twomaterials that he used in his exhibition. What [is] theimportance of these materials?’” Boult said. “Here in Louisiana, here in New Orleans, there’sclay in the soil.”

For oneofthe workshop participants, HarveyOrth, 76,the clay providedanopportunity to connect to Louisiana in another way: he made ceramic coins with impressions of Mardi Gras doubloons.

When Orthwas 10 years old, his father had given his grandparents amoney tree made out of wire andsilver dollarsfor Christmas. Inspired by that childhood memory andbythe work of Oubre,inthe workshop Orth decided to make a“money tree”withcopperwireroots andceramic coins hanging from the branches.

“I was afraid my ambitions could not be met by my skills,” recalled Orth, who is also amuseum donor and docent.

Buthesaidthe teachers in the class made sure that didn’thappen. It “tapped alittle bit of acreative vein that maybe Ididn’tfully appreciate untilthe class,” he recalled.

DianneHonoré, wholed abeadingworkshop for the ArtThrivesprogram in 2025, said“alot of them come in, thinking, ‘I’m not an artist,’ and they makethe most beautifulart.”

“It’sawonderful experience in thatthey share alot of similarities in age-related experiences, life experience,” Honoré said.

She said Boult helped ensureeverything went smoothly in each class.

Bridget Bergeron, 63, aretired educatorwho lives outsideofLafayette andhas participatedinArt Thrives programs, said she appreciated that themuseum has prioritized peopleinher age group. Boult,she added, is “way younger than allofour participants,” but is “very open to allowing us to have avoice.”

Boultwas involved in the arts from a young age, marching in bands from around 10 years oldand laterparticipating in the

ä See ART, page 2Y

Theinternet

My brother Robin has asuperpower he never asked for. He almost never blinks. Parkinson’sdisease does that. It steals the small, involuntary things first —the natural rhythm of eyelids, the easy swing of arms while walking, the face’sinstinct to movewhen the heart does. Robin wasdiagnosed about 15 years ago. He spent morethan 30 years as aSouthern Baptist preacher before deciding to stop late last year

Though Parkinson’shas affected his cadence, about ayear before he stopped preaching, he appeared on apodcast called Hayden Alabama—it’sfocused on the outdoors, Christianity and Southern storytelling. They hit the trifecta with my brother As is the custom with Baptist preachers, the hosts call him Brother Robin. He showed up the way he always has —direct and funny with exquisite timing as astoryteller One of the first stories he told “The Plowed Dirt” —has been watched millions of times. I’ve watched it at least adozen times myself,and there are still acouple of places in it that make me laugh every single time. Considering the distance between my brother’sperspective and my own, that’ssaying something. The podcast invited him back. And back again. Many stories later,mybrother has an audience. Those viewers, before anyone explained that Robin was ill, noticed something. The comments flooded in: “Blink, Brother,blink.” So manyofthem,soconsistently, that it has becomehis de facto name.

He is now widely knownas Brother Blink. He gets invited to speak at events and outdoor shows. People seek him out. They’ve even madewell-designed T-shirts.

My brother —who once refuted evolution with the declarative sentence, “Ifyou put adog in a basket and leave it there, it’sstill adog” —now has merchandise.

Ain’tlifegrand?

By his own description, Robin is agun-toting, Bible-carrying, camouflage-wearing, Walmartshopping Southern Baptist preacher.The only time he lived outside Mississippi wasinthe mid-1990s when he attended the NewOrleans Baptist Theological Seminary

Meanwhile, he has described me as follows: “My sister married aMexican, and they have a Chinese daughter.Plus, she left Mississippi and has lived all over the world and country.”

Through the years, our holidays around the table have been interesting.

Growing up, Robin and Iwere four years apart and largely living in different worlds, even under the sameroof. Looking back, Iremember afew moments when we weren’t. There were others, harder to name, but the mostvivid was centered around aDan Fogelberg song. Iloved Dan Fogelberg with my whole heart. Robin called him DanEat-a-booger.Nonetheless, when Iwas 14 and Robin was 10, one spring day,our parents were gone forthe afternoon.

Ihad just gotten my stereo and Fogelberg’s“HomeFree” album. There was one song on that album that sounded morecountry than the rest. It’s called, fittingly enough, “Long WayHome —Live in the Country.” It wasthe only

NaomiKornman poses with anecklaceshe made.

Kimbrielle Boult poses on the last dayofArt Thrives.

STAFF PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER

Harvey Orth adjustshis artpiece titled, ‘Impression of the Past,’onthe last dayofthe 8-week ArtThrives programrecently at NOMAin NewOrleans.

ASKTHE EXPERTS

Retiredjournalistlet rootsdrive search forculture,beauty

Acadiana heritage continuestoinspire now filmmaker

BY LAUREN CHERAMIE Staff writer

James Edmunds, borninNew

Iberia, has been an English teacher photographer,writer,editor,photo editor,radio announcer and more.

He has written for Newsweek,Louisiana Life, The Dallas Times-Herald, Figaro, Gris-Gris and others. In 1980, he and apartner founded The Times of Acadiana, where Edmunds served as the editor for the first five years and associate publisher for three years.

Since 1977, he has been involved in arange of performing arts and theatrical production projects. From 1998 through 2010, he served variously as boardmember,treasurer,general manager andconsulting manager for the Performing Arts Society of Acadiana.

Today,Edmunds focuses on photography and creating short films, which have been exhibited invarious film festivals around theUnited States. Some of his films include “I know what you remember” and “The Taste of Summer.” His current project is ashort film abouthis relative Walter Chapman, aconcert pianist who was one of the first people to make sound recordings, aimed for completion in 2027.

This interview was edited for length and clarity

In our text exchangebefore this interview, you told me that youweren’tsureifyou were creating manysolutions. Through working on this section, I’ve found thatit’sthe “normal” people who have the most interesting stories. From your time as areporter and editor,how have you seen ordinary people make adifference in Acadiana?

In Acadiana, just like any place when someone has areal strong devotion to somethingtheythink is important and valuable to others, those people are afabulousasset to acommunity Most of us,we’re just getting

ART

Continued from page1y

through theday.You’ve got to feed yourself,have aroof over your head and soon. We’re legitimately preoccupied with doing allthose things, but our lives are brightenedtremendously by people who are giving us things thattake us to another levelofenjoyment and engagement in life.

I’ma real arts guy, andI’ve worked in the arts community alot. The people who do that, their energy is justtremendous.

Jackie Lyle andIhave worked together alot. We’re co-conspirators on anynumber of projects over the decades, and she has afierce energy to thisdevotion to theideathatall people should have access to awide range of the arts

Acadiana —and Louisiana —isaplacethat brims with culture.Whyisitimportant to bring outside culture to Acadiana?

It’snew energy.Anybody who’s adancer benefits by seeing great dancers. Anybodywho is amusician benefitsfromhearing great musicians.

Oneofthe more unusualaspects here isthat you can hear greatmusicians and see great dancers among your local folks. We have an unusually high local stockofthat.

When we were hiring someone to workat The Times of Acadiana, we were interviewing this guy from Ohio. We took himout to Mulate’s in Breaux Bridge.Alocal band was there, andhesaid, “Thisisyour local music?”

Isaid, “Yeah, we have indigenous music that’s really richand vibrant. What about in Ohio?”

He said, “Well, Bruce Springsteen’s fromOhio.”

We have astrong cultural art scene. Because of that,you grow up knowingthat you can go out for dinner andthenhear aband playing music. It’snot just something from thejukebox.It’smusicthat’sabout something.

If you growupengaged in the arts, yougrow up knowing thatyou’ve been exposedtoart that’sabout something, and it comes from somewhere, and it’sgoing somewhere.

Youmentioned Jackie Lyle, who works with the Performing Arts Serving Acadiana. Do you

Teen Art Council at NOMA. She continues to identify as an artist herself —she is awriter and dancer —and has ablog where she writes about Black queer art. She grew up in New Orleans East andgraduated from Frederick DouglassHighSchool, where she participated in the Bard High School Early College program, whichgrants an associate degree upon completion of high school. Twoyears later,she finished herundergraduate degree in Art History and Visual Culture at Bard in New York at the age of 19 Boult said she was someone who always liked to hang out with older people and learn historyfrom them. Sheisa triplet, andshe and her siblings grew up knowing both grandmothers and some great-grandmothers. “Talk to your grandma. Talk to your grandad. Talk to your people, and get them involved, even if it’snot in themuseum,” Boult said. “Just talk to them and soak up as much as you can from our elders.”

Those interested in registering for aworkshop at the New Orleans Museum of Art can visit noma.org/learn/art-thrives for more information or call (504) 658-4100. Thereisa fee of $65 for the Art Thrives workshop, which covers the classes and afinal showcase

RISHER

Continued from page 1y

Q&A WITH JAMES EDMUNDS RETIRED JOURNALIST

James Edmunds, borninNew Iberia, has been an English

more.

still work with the group?

No,I’m seriouslytrying to be quiet in my later years. But Jackie and Iworked —she’sgot more energy than Iever had. Ioccasionally chat with her about things, because we’ve worked as cross sounding boards for each other

I’msort of like an old emeritus guy,like the person in the movies who’sliving alone in the mountains now but used to be aspy

What does being quiet entail for you?

Ilike to take pictures, so I’ve been doing alot of photography.Atthis latter stage of life, Idoshow filmsat film festivals. My area of interest is composition. Ilikethe way you can frame up atableau and show it and so on and so forth. The films Imake, I’ve actually gotten afew cinematography awards for the films —even though they’re not about, necessarily, highly cinematic topics. I’m very careful about composition of the scene. Film and photographyrequires one to be able to spot beauty.How do you find beauty in aplacethat you’ve been in forsolong? That’s what beauty is.You con-

Fogelberg song that Robin liked too.

So, we did what you do when you are young and thehouse is yours for afew hours—weopened thefront windows and turned thespeakers outward toward the frontyard full of loblolly pines and blared thesong as loud as it would go.

Andthen,wewent outside and sang and danced —loud, wild, joyful, ridiculous dancing. Together

Thesong is about longing for open land andsky,for alife unplanned, for children laughing just because they’re living.

Robin,even at 10, already knew that was exactly the life he wanted. Iwas 14 and knew Iwas headed somewhere else entirely

We danced anyway

What strikesmenow,watching him in hisBrother Blink era, is how light he seems. For decades, Robin carried the full weightoffire and brimstone —the calling, the congregation, the responsibilityof standing before people week after week.

Something has lifted.

Thepeople who follow him online don’t knoworcareabout any of the things that made us different.They just like him

tinue to see the beauty unfolding. Over the years, in terms of beauty and seeing it andphotographing it and then trying to see it whenfilming, I’vestarted uplifting asmaller and smaller frame of reference. Maybe that’s justa part of getting older.When you’re young, you want to show it all. Youwant to show the dramatic scene. Abig partofphotography, especially photojournalism, is showingitpretty. Let’ssay I’m at Cajun Country MardiGras, andIneedtoshow the guyonthe horse catching the beer can with a piece of boudininhis other hand.

Afteryou’ve captured that scene, it will continuetoinspire many other photographers. Instead of running out of things, you’re free to find new things andfree to be even more idiosyncraticabout whatitis you look for

Youmentioned the musicinLouisiana being meaningful and appreciated.That tends to create this strong sense of place —something thatAcadiana has.Do you think astrong sense of placechanges how peopletreat one another in acommunity? Ithink that’sabsolutely true. Another thingthathappens is youre-

ally appreciate whatyou have here when you see it differently.It’san extremely beautiful place if you like mosquitoes. We’re going next week to Arizona. It’salmost this radically different placetobe. You’resortofprogrammed to think there are rewards in seeing things, so you go to acompletely differentenvironment. The opposite of thatistrue, too. It can make yousad to see characterless environments —from the physical beauty to the food. Youhavethe expectation that these things are enriching, engaging andrewarding. We have alot of friends from the Midwest, and they justmarvel at your averageplace to go eat lunch down here.

All of therichness here elevates ourexpectations, anditelevates what we demand. That’s why Ithink so many people who are in the arts —who movefrom south Louisiana and go to places like NewYorkand L.A.—the reason theydosowell is becausetheir level of expectation abouthow good something should be starts at abaselevel of really high.

find him funny.Hegets recognized at restaurants. People want to take their pictures withhim and call out, “Blink, brother,blink!” My brother has turned an involuntary symptom of ahard disease into an identity that brings joy,connection and purpose.

Ithink about those speakers turned outwardtothe front yard and two kids headed in opposite directions, dancing among the loblollies to the

anyway I’mglad we had that afternoon. I’mglad he’sstill making people laugh.

I’mglad the world found him,too.

Former newspaper editor James Edmunds nowfocuses much of histime on photography. Shown is apicture he took at Palmetto Island State Park.

PHOTOSPROVIDEDByJAMES EDMUNDS

teacher,photographer,writer,editor, photo editor,radio announcer and

They

samesong

PROVIDED PHOTO

Robin Risher stands behind Hayden Alabama Podcast co-hosts Shane Thomas and Phillip Bremmerman in their studio.

BR dancegroup presidentleads with amission to serve

BY MORGAN KING Contributing writer

A14-year commitment stemming from asimple interest in two-step dancing is now acommunity service for Lesetta Crawford, president of Flo-Motion Baton Rouge, adance organization rooted in fellowship and philanthropy Crawford, 57, took abeginner two-step class from aformer member.When she later visited a class at the Martin LutherKing Jr Community Center,she immediately felt she had found the right place

“I said, you know,I think this is where Ineed to be,” Crawford said.

Crawford was soon invited to serve as apractice coach andlater as vice president. About seven years ago, she was asked to lead the organization as president.

“Everything started moving so fast,” she said. “But when I stepped in, Irealized that this organization was about giving back.”

Flo-Motion now has about 60 members who meet every Tuesday at the MLK Center for four levels of dance classes, but the group’s impact extends beyond the dance floor

Each year,membersdonate schooluniforms, supplies and essentials to families at local schools, provide hundreds of canned goods forThanksgiving mealsand support breast cancer patients through donations and an annual awareness dance.

For Christmas, the group traditionally donates bicycles, but last year Crawfordexpanded theeffort into afull toy drive. Members began bringing toys and bikes in early November.They collected five bikes for the toy drive.

Flo-Motion also steps in to help families with rent, utilities and other needs all funded through members’ $25 monthly dues. The organization does not accept outside donations.

“When you manage the money the right way,you candothese things,” Crawford said. Crawford credits thegroup’s longevity to its senseoffamily. Many members havebeen with Flo-Motion for more than adecade, including 87-year-oldtreasurer

MarvaCook, whoisagrounding force.

“This lady is really like amother to me,” Crawford said. “I got more out of it than just being alead instructor.Ihavea family.”

Theorganization also maintains close ties withthe MLK Center andthe Pearl George Senior Center,helping fund seniortrips and other community needs.

“We’vebeenconsistent for14 years,” Crawford said. “Even in themidstofCOVID, we were still fortunate to help.”

Despite the group’sextensive outreach, Crawfordsaidshe has neversought recognition because the simple act of word of mouth is enough

“I feel like whatever Ido, someonewill speak for me one day,” Crawford said. “Sometimes people don’tknow there are people out there willingtohelp.”

This story was reported and written by astudent withthe supportof the nonprofit Louisiana Collegiate News Collaborative, an LSU-led coalition of eightuniversities funded bythe Henry Luce and John D. and CatherineT.MacArthur foundations.

With thousands of Shellmen and womenacross thestate,we areworking everyday to reduce emissions, while increasing efficiencyinour operations

Our tomorrowdepends on whatwedotoday.Together, we arepowering progress forabrighterfuture. Louisiana is where we live and we’reproud to call it home.

Marva Cook dances at Flo-Motion’sCongoSquare event with GeorgeHawkins.

Flo-Motion collects canned foodsand StoveTop stuffing for its Thanksgiving ‘Feed the Families’ drive.

FAITH & VALUES

Mourning seeing change in a digital age

BY JON PARKS Contributing writer

With the rise of social media and the worldwide disruption of the pandemic, the last decade has seen a dramatic change in the ways people mourn their losses.

Fortunately, not all the effects are negative. While some feel they can’t properly mourn without a public service, others are relieved that they won’t have to rush to plan (and pay for) an elaborate, multiday funeral event.

It’s also possible these rituals are not disappearing but evolving. Family visitations are being replaced by small gatherings and private messages. Community repasts are given up in favor of more intimate family meals. Polished obituaries are giving way to informal, heartfelt tributes on social media.

This might feel foreign to 20thcentury generations, who sometimes criticize social media as a hollow substitute for face-to-face interaction But younger generations view platforms like Facebook, Instagram and YouTube as valid — even essential — ways to communicate and express themselves.

“I think social media can be a re-

ally helpful tool for people to express their sense of loss and find connection,” says Charlotte Tryforos, a social worker and adjunct teacher at LSU.

Baton Rouge therapist Sarah Tipton says that grief comes unexpectedly

“You never know when grief will hit you,” she said, recalling the story of a client whose father died during the COVID pandemic.

The father lived in California, and her client couldn’t travel to see him or attend a funeral. Tipton said her client was unable to start grieving because she didn’t fully experience closure. The client finally began coming to terms with her loss when a box arrived a few weeks later with some of her father’s belongings.

“Of all the things in that box, it was the glasses that got her. She broke down and cried over those glasses because she knew if she was holding them, he was really gone,” she said. “Most of us like to be in control, and we want to control this. But we can’t control or ignore grief. It won’t just go away.”

It’s common to use the words “mourning” and “grief” interchangeably, but they are not the same. Grief is what we feel when we experience loss, while mourning is the way we express it. People mourn in different ways, depending on their culture, religion or where they live.

“Those practices can change over time,” said Eric Fulcher, a therapist based in New Orleans. “But grief itself has not changed much Every one of us will experience it.”

Barry Weinstein, Rabbi Emeritus at the Unified Jewish Synagogue in Baton Rouge, notes that the pandemic brought several changes to mourning rituals. He describes traditional Jewish rituals of mourning, like covering mirrors and lighting a memorial candle periodically to commemorate the death.

But fewer families observe those rituals today “And what’s more, I’m hearing

from a lot of people who ask their family not to hold any kind of funeral for them when they die,” Weinstein said.

Public rituals can bring structure and closure to loss. People may skip them out of a desire to shortcut or simplify their mourning, but in doing so, they may actually delay the very healing that they seek.

Tryforos has observed how her students — even her own children are learning how to grieve in a social media world.

She points out how one of her children’s favorite YouTubers recently shared a personal loss through her videos The digital creator talked about her feelings so openly and honestly in an effort to “normalize” grief for her followers.

Social media can have other benefits for those mourning a loss.

“I’ve seen people share such beautiful tributes online when a friend loses a loved one. Most of them would never get up to speak at a funeral, but online they can really be a supportive voice,” Tryforos said.

Mourning online can also offer the opportunity to reconnect with distant friends and provide a safe

space to journal and share the grieving process. Some choose to leave their lost loved one’s account active, using it as a place to post memories and reflections on meaningful anniversaries. In these cases, a visit to someone’s Facebook wall may be like going to visit their grave at the cemetery Practices like these could be gradually taking the place of the in-person rituals we’re leaving behind — or at least offering a meaningful alternative.

“Every person has their own grief journey We each process these difficult feelings in a different way and at a different pace,” Tipton said. “The important thing to remember is that no matter where our ‘people’ are — online or face-to-face — we don’t have to walk that journey alone.”

Mental health professionals point out that grief is not one single emotion, but rather a complex set of feelings. Sadness is expected, but some people are surprised to experience anger, anxiety and even relief.

Jon Parks is a pastor, writer and musician residing in Baton Rouge. Reach out to him at jon@ jonparks.net.

Philly parents helped guarantee student bathroom breaks

BY CARLY SITRIN

Contributing writer

Editor’s note: This story created by Carly Sitrin for Chalkbeat Philadelphia is part of the Solutions Story Tracker from the Solutions Journalism Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rigorous reporting about responses to social problems. Louisiana Inspired features solutions journalism stories that provide tangible evidence that positive change is happening in other places and in our own communities — solutions that can be adopted around the world

On an unseasonably hot March day outside of Bluford Elementary School, Philadelphia mom Cat LaTorre hustled from car to car handing out flyers.

The bold purple lettering spelled out the school district’s new wellness policy guaranteeing kids daily recess, regular bathroom breaks, and more. But to LaTorre, they represented something on top of that: victory

“These are the things we won for you, mama,” she said to a parent and her daughter driving off at dismissal time. “We’re trying to do bigger and better things for you.”

LaTorre is one of dozens of parent volunteers with the grassroots advocacy group Lift Every Voice Philly They’d spent the better part of two years confronting district officials and city leaders with stories of students wearing diapers to school because of insufficient bathroom breaks. They sent letters and testified in meetings about entire classrooms of students being punished for a single kid’s bad behavior They showed up to Philadelphia City Council meetings demanding joy for their children, and said they didn’t think that was too much to ask.

Lift Every Voice’s work shows how hard it can be for parents in the city to affect change, but also how it can be done. It took a lot of advocacy false dawns and more than one tearful school board meeting to do what at one point felt impossible to the group. These parents, most of whom had little formal history or background in activism, ultimately had a major influence on policy in the big bureaucratic system that is the Philly school district. And other parents are starting to take notice. The district’s proposal to close 18 schools has spurred hundreds of Philly families who’ve never considered themselves education activists to look for an advocacy playbook that gets results.

Following a Board of Education vote last month, it’s now official district policy that all students will get daily recess, regular movement breaks to stretch, as well as access to water and bathrooms that can’t be restricted as punishment. In addition, teachers can no longer collectively punish groups of students for the actions of a few, and students can’t be forced to have “silent lunches” where speaking is prohibited.

“We navigated something that is so significant, that is life-changing for our kids and for our families,”

LaTi Spence, a member of Lift Every Voice, told Chalkbeat.

Councilmember praises Lift Every Voice’s ‘community power’

Just days after the school board’s vote, in a blur of metallic purple pom-poms, members of Lift Every Voice celebrated the landmark policy change at the district’s headquarters. Superintendent Tony Watlington and other local dignitaries stood arm-in-arm with the LEV parents.

“‘Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never has and it never will,’ ” Watlington said, quoting the abolitionist Frederick Douglass. “I wish we had done this much sooner But I’m pleased that we’re doing it today.”

Of course, “power” over Philly public schools resides with district leaders like Watlington and the school board.

The board’s Feb. 27 vote to adopt the policy was perfunctory and took place without debate. But for months before that, it appeared and then disappeared from school board meeting agendas.

The Lift Every Voice parents discovered there was always another survey to fill out, another person they should meet with, or another time for public comment.

The process was exhausting and at times, demoralizing, they said. But it wasn’t unfamiliar

The wellness policy was not Lift Every Voice’s first demand from those in power in Philly schools.

The group began in 2022 as a grassroots gathering of Black parents who said they felt ignored and shut out of important conversations about public education in the city Lift Every Voice’s 2023 campaign to expose the school nurse staffing shortage forced a public reckoning and gave the advocates their first taste of success. Since then, moms and grandmas in their signature purple shirts have canvassed neighborhoods, visited with members of the City Council, and roamed City Hall.

“They testify, they build power,” Councilmember Kendra Brooks said at the celebration of the board’s wellness policy vote.

“That’s what community power looks like.”

And their success comes as community organizing around public education is seeing a resurgence in the wake of the district’s closure proposals.

At several community engagement meetings and rallies across the city protesting the closures, many parents and public school advocates have accused the bureaucracy of Philadelphia schools of creating a wall between families and the district.

But it’s not insurmountable, parents said.

“We don’t win all the battles. But this one’s really significant,” Spence said “I think it’s giving people and parents hope to know that, especially with the news around the school closures, that there’s a piece of joy that we did get and we can hold on to.”

Changing policy in Philly public schools isn’t easy Lift Every Voice Executive Director Shanée Garner said changing how the district works can be

messy because “our systems are not built to respond to people.” She said the school district has been historically underfunded and has cycled through different leaders, board members, and various amounts of state oversight.

The core of LEV’s work has been about fostering relationships, Garner said “If we want to build a future where everyone is looking out for each other,” she said, it requires elected officials, school leaders, and parents to take the time to get to know each other

Julie Krug, another parent in LEV, said she thinks the group was able to move hearts and minds by choosing policy priorities drawn from stories rooted in their personal experiences with their kids and their schools. “What I’ve learned is how powerful that really is,” she said. “It’s irrefutable.” Building sustained parent power also requires educating families about the levers of control and the city’s political hierarchies, and how to navigate them.

At meetings, volunteers run through scenarios about issues like bullying, vaping, and advocating for resources for students with disabilities. They discuss how to find the right person to reach out to whether that’s a teacher, counselor, assistant superintendent, or administrator They practice writing an email or note that will best convey their concerns.

The goal is to demystify the system and arm parents with the knowledge and skills to advocate for what their children are owed.

Carrera Wilson, another founding Lift Every Voice member and mother of five, said prior to joining the group, she was an activist in her heart and in her mind, “but actually making moves, making changes, connecting with people that actually can do things? That have some pull? No.” she said.

Wilson said LEV helped her build her confidence, learn how to organize, speak in public, and grow her skills as a community leader

“We had to fight. It took a lot to get here,” Wilson said. “I just was a parent that cared and didn’t like what was going on in my kids’ school. And now I can actually go home and tell my kids, look on the news, Mommy did this. We won this.”

In many ways, LEV’s work is just beginning. The group is now working with the district to help develop a plan to ensure the wellness policy is followed, and that schools have the resources they need to follow it.

The parents’ goal is “bigger numbers, more power, more success,” said Wilson. They want parents to start expecting better of their schools and holding their district accountable.

Wilson said there was a time where she and the other parents felt like “we can’t do anything, we can’t bust through that wall.” But Wilson said that to be standing outside Bluford with a list of guarantees they fought for made what she and others in Lift Every Voice did all worth it.

Fulcher

Tipton

Weinstein

PROVIDED PHOTOS By SOLMAIRA VALERIO

Members of Lift Every Voice say their advocacy work’s goal is to create better school environments and more joy for Philly students.

Cat LaTorre, a member of Lift Every Voice Philly, shares a flyer about the district’s new wellness policy with a parent at Bluford Elementary School.

SUNDAY, April 12, 2026

CURTIS / by Ray Billingsley

SLYLOCK FOX / by Bob Weber Jr

GET FUZZY / by Darby Conley

HAGAR THE HORRIBLE / by Chris Browne

MOTHER GOOSE AND GRIMM / by Mike Peters

ZIGGY / by Tom Wilson

ZITS / by Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman

SALLY FORTH / by Francesco Marciuliano & Jim Keefe

PEARLS BEFORE SWINE /byStephan Pastis

directions: Make a 2- to 7-letter word from the letters in each row Add points of each word, using scoring directions at right. Finally, 7-letter words get 50-point bonus. “Blanks” used as any letter have no point value All the words are in the Official SCRABBLE® Players Dictionary, 5th Edition.

word game

instructions: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed. 3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. 4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed.

todAY's Word — HePAtitis: hep-uh-

TY-tis: Inflammation of the liver.

Average mark 31 words

Time limit 60 minutes

Can you find 52 or more words in HEPATITIS?

ken ken

instructions: 1 -Each rowand each column must contain thenumbers 1through4 (easy) or 1through6 (challenging) without repeating 2 -The numbers within the heavily outlinedboxes, called cages, must combine using thegiven operation (inany order)toproduce the target numbersinthe top-left corners. 3 -Freebies: Fillinthe single-boxcages withthe numberinthe top-left corner

instructions: Sudoku is anumber-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 gridwith several given numbers. The object is to placethe numbers 1to 9in theempty squares so that each row,each column and each 3x3 boxcontains the same number only once. The difficultylevel of the Conceptis Sudoku increases from Monday to Sunday

directions: Complete thegridso that numbers 1–132 connect horizontally, vertically or diagonally

Sudoku

Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis

By darryL gonzaLez

On the road

Thanks for today’s deal goes to the great English player Andrew Robson, who tells us that the deal is from a casual rubber bridge game in Tangiers, Morocco. Had West led a low heart there would be no story to tell. West, however, made the inspired lead of the ace of hearts, so he was still able to control the defense. East’s discard meant that South had started with five hearts to go with his known six or seven clubs. There was not much West could do if South held the 10 of spades or the king of diamonds, but he took his best shot when he shifted to a spade at trick two. South won in dummy and cashed two more high spades, shedding two hearts and a club from hand. East’s discard on the third spade meant that West had started with 12 major-suit cards

super Quiz

SUBJECT: 2025 DEATHS Provide the name of

South’s plan was to endplay West with the two of spades and force West to give South entry to his hand If West’s one minorsuit card was a diamond, South had to take dummy’s ace before the endplay South could not cash a fourth spade just yet, as that might give West a chance to discard his last spade on the ace of diamonds, thus avoiding the endplay South cashed the ace of diamonds right away Should West discard a spade, South could lead the two of spades without cashing another high one. South could now handle a potential spade discard by West and still make his contract. A very interesting deal!

Tannah Hirsch welcomes readers’ responses sent in care of this newspaper or to Tribune Content Agency inc., 2225 Kenmore Ave., Suite 114, Buffalo, Ny 14207. E-mail responses may be sent to gorenbridge@ aol.com. © 2026 Tribune Content Agency

ARIES (March 21-April 19) You hold the power of choice. Don’t pay for others’ mistakes; choose to use intelligence, not cash, to win your battles, and you’ll far exceed your expectations.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Refrain from sharing personal or financial information. Someone will monopolize your time and take advantage of you if you let them. Look through every lens and listen intensely

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) Be first to stand up for what’s right. Truth is paramount if you want to maintain your position and reputation Walk

away from gossip and those who tempt you to indulge in excessive behavior CANCER (June 21-July 22) Stop before things get out of hand or run amok. Use your intelligence to navigate your way through conversations that can influence how others perceive you. Speak from the heart. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) You can’t please everyone, but you can offer validity and tell the truth. Let your voice lead the way, and your passion shine through. Gather knowledge and experience. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) A change will be uplifting. Take time to clear

your mind and assess what’s happening around you. Join forces with like-minded people, and someone you connect with will bring out the best in you.

tunity is apparent, and time is on your side.

track and a plan in place. Refuse to let your emotions and desires take precedence when it comes to spending and saving. PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) Don’t share too much information or give others a reason to question you. Collect your thoughts, rearrange your plans and follow the protocol necessary to forge ahead. wuzzLes

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) What’s familiar is in your best interest. Keep life simple and affordable, and surround yourself with those who support your interests. Gauge what’s doable and what isn’t.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Emotions and impulse will clash if you aren’t careful. Choose your words carefully and let your wisdom and experience lead the way Oppor-

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) A change of heart will point you in a different direction. Look inward, assess and confront your health, wealth and contractual ties. Stick to what feels right and works best for you.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Keep your plans simple and affordable. Conversations will carry weight but also give rise to temptation, uncertainty and stress. Make comfort and peace of mind your goal.

AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 19) Choose peace. Get your financials on

The horoscope, an entertainment feature, is not based on scientific fact. © 2026 by NEA, inc., dist. By Andrews McMeel Syndication

goren Bridge

SCORING: 24 to 30 points —congratulations, doctor; 18 to 23 points—honorsgraduate; 13 to 17 points —you’replenty smart, but no grind; 5to12points —you really shouldhit the booksharder;1point to 4points —enroll in remedial courses immediately; 0points who reads thequestions to you?

Saturday's Cryptoquote: Spring unlocks the flowers to paint the laughing soil. —Bishop Reginald Heber

1. RobertRedford.2.Gene Hackman. 3. George Foreman. 4. Richard Chamberlain. 5. Hulk Hogan. 6. Ozzy Osbourne. 7. Jimmy Swaggart 8. LoniAnderson. 9. Connie Francis. 10. Loretta Swit.11. Roberta Flack. 12.BrianWilson 13. Wink Martindale. 14.Jay North.15. Val Kilmer Crossword

jeFF mACnelly’sshoe/ by Gary Brookins &Susie MacNelly FoXtrot/ by BillAmend