The Times-Picayune 04-25-2026

FRIDAY @ JAZZ FEST

BA EGOESBIG

BY Staff

view Orleans

JA cubes.

BY PATRICK SLOAN-TURNER Staff writer

Police booked ateenage suspect Friday in the mass shooting at the Mall of Louisiana aday earlier and releaseda photo of asecondpersonwanted for questioning in the crime, which killed a17-year-old girl and injured five others.

JonBatisteperforms on the Festival Stageduringthe second dayofthe NewOrleans Jazz&HeritageFestivalonFriday. Loose Cattle perform on the Fais Do-DoStage at the New Orleans Jazz &Heritage Festivalon Friday.

STAFFPHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

—and,from how it sounded, finish planning —his Jazz Fest show Would it feel like ashow thrown together at the last minutebya jet-lagged

It would not, even if it teetered on the brink of losing the thread acouple times.

Just as he did in 2023, Batiste orchestrated one of thefest’sbiggestperformances. Big in terms of thenumber of

participants. Big in terms of musical variety. Big in terms of meaning. He did not squander therare opportunityfor ahometown artist to headline

ä See BATISTE, page 7A

Crawfish breadhas deep rootsinMarksville

Treathas become Jazz Fest favorite

BY JENNA ROSS Staffwriter

MARKSVILLE Three days until Jazz Fest, the calendar on the wall warned. Akitchen timer blared.

But John Ed Laborde calmly began another batch of dough the sameway he begins every batch of dough that becomes, eventually,the base of his legendary crawfish bread. He scooped the flour and the yeast. He flipped on the mixer and,after it got going, added the oil. He nudged.Hetasted. He smiled.

Then he turned his attention to thenextstep, then thenext trying not to lethimself think

Thirty-year Jazz Fest regular JanicePoseymakes her first stop for crawfish bread on Thursday.

too far ahead in the logisticalfeat before him. Bringing eight days’ worth of crawfishbread from this humble plant in Avoyelles Parishto

on Mondaytobesold at Jazz Fest. ä See CRAWFISH, page 7A

MarkelLee, 17, is the first suspect identified by law enforcement sincethe shooting.Baton Rouge Police Chief TJ Morse saidata news conferencethat Lee turned himself in earlier Friday and was booked with first-degreemurder, five countsofattempted first-degreemurder,and illegal use of aweapon. Morse said at least one unidentified suspect remains at large and asked for the public’shelp in identifying and locating him

“It’sreally early in the investigation still,”Morse said.“We have to give the detectives time to do their job when they’re combing through that much evidence and surveillance video.” It is unclear how manyshooters were involved, as well as how many other people might have played arole.

Martha Odom, a17-year-old Lafayette

ä See SHOOTING, page 5A

BY WILLIE SWETT Staff writer

When 16-year-old Roxanne Sharp’s body was discovered by agroup of trail riders near the St. Tammany Parish FairGrounds in CovingtoninFebruary 1982, it shocked the smallnorthshore community

An initialinvestigation by the Covington Police Department determined Sharp, a young mother,had been murdered and raped.

Sharp

“Itwas just horrific news,” recalled St. Tammany Parish President Mike Cooper,whose father, Ernest, was mayor of Covington at the time. “Something we neverthought

ä See MURDER, page 5A

STAFF PHOTOSByDAVID GRUNFELD PanaromaFoodsemployees in Marksville prepare crawfish bread

STAFF PHOTO By DAVID GRUNFELD

Camp Mystic could be denied license to reopen DALLAS Camp Mystic could be denied a license to reopen this summer after Texas authorities found the camp’s emergency plan falls short of the state’s new requirements.

In a letter obtained by The Dallas Morning News this week, the Texas Department of State Health said the camp’s emergency plan needs substantial revisions for it to receive a license. An attorney for the camp did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.

The state listed numerous areas of the camp’s emergency plans deemed incomplete, insufficient or missing. For example, maps submitted by the camp did not make clear where the cabins are located in relation to the flood plain, the state said It also found the camp’s emergency plans for wildfires, medical emergencies and epidemics insufficient.

Texas lawmakers passed new summer camp safety laws last year following the July flood that killed 27 children and counselors at the all-girls’ camp

The camp has 45 days to address the issues and resubmit an emergency plan, according to the letter

Family of Boulder fire attack suspect released DENVER The wife and five children of the man charged with carrying out a terror attack last year have been released from immigration custody, their attorney said in a social media post Thursday The family’s release comes days after a federal judge ordered them freed from the detention facility in Dilley, Texas, where they had been held for 10 months. Immigration authorities detained Hayam El Gamal, the wife of Mohamed Soliman, and the couple’s five children soon after Soliman was arrested in the June 1 terror attack in Boulder.

Soliman is accused of using a makeshift flamethrower and Molotov cocktails to burn people who had gathered on Boulder’s Pearl Street mall for a weekly demonstration urging the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza. Witnesses said Soliman shouted, “Free Palestine” during the attack, which is being prosecuted in both state and federal court. Karen Diamond, 82, died on June 25 from injuries sustained in the attack.

Soliman, who was born in Egypt and lived in Kuwait for 17 years, arrived in the U.S in August 2022 on a tourist visa that expired in February 2023. He overstayed his visa and sought political asylum in September 2022.

Court overturns $8.2M verdict for Roy Moore

MONTGOMERY, Ala An appeals court on Friday reversed an $8.2 million defamation verdict awarded to Alabama politician Roy Moore, who sued a super PAC over a 2017 political ad detailing misconduct accusations against him.

The panel of the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Moore failed to prove the organization acted with malice, one of the legal standards for cases involving public figures. The three-judge panel vacated the defamation verdict and ordered the trial judge to enter a summary judgment in favor of Senate Majority PAC. Moore, a former Republican judge known for his hard-line stances opposing same-sex marriage and supporting the public display of the Ten Commandments, lost the 2017 Senate race after his campaign was rocked by misconduct allegations against him. Leigh Corfman said that Moore sexually touched her in 1979 when she was 14 and he was a 32-year-old assistant district attorney Moore denied the accusation. Other women said Moore dated them, or asked them out on dates, when they were older teens. The lawsuit centered on one TV commercial that recounted accusations against Moore. Moore’s attorneys argued the ad, through the juxtaposition of statements and partial quotes from news articles, falsely implied he solicited sex from young girls at a shopping mall.

Envoys dispatched to Pakistan

Trump sends Witkoff, Kushner to meet Iran’s foreign minister

BY MUNIR AHMED, JON GAMBRELL and JAMEY KEATEN Associated Press

ISLAMABAD President Donald

Trump is sending his envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Pakistan to meet with Iran’s foreign minister, the White House said Friday, as officials in the South Asian nation pushed to revive ceasefire talks between the U.S. and Iran.

The talks planned for Saturday come as much of the world is on edge over a war that has snarled crucial energy exports through the Strait of Hormuz, clouded the global economic picture and left thousands dead across the Middle East.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Islamabad late Friday Earlier on social me-

dia, he wrote that he was traveling to Pakistan on a trip focused on “bilateral matters and regional developments.” He didn’t specify who he would meet.

Araghchi and the two Trump envoys held hours of indirect talks in Geneva on Feb 27 over Tehran’s nuclear program, but walked away without a deal. The next day, Israel and the United States started the war against Iran.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in an interview on Fox News Channel that the president decided to send Witkoff and Kushner to Pakistan “to hear the Iranians out.”

“We’ve certainly seen some progress from the Iranian side in the last couple of days,” Leavitt said. She did not offer any details about what U.S officials were hearing.

Islamabad has sought to reinject momentum into the negotiations between Iran and the United States, which did not resume this week as had been expected.

Jones Act waiver extended

Separately Friday, the White House said Trump issued a 90-day extension to the Jones Act waiver, making it easier for non-American vessels to transport oil and natural gas.

He first announced a 60-day waiver in March in a move intended to stabilize energy prices and ease oil and gas shipments to the U.S. following the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

“New data compiled since the initial waiver was issued revealed that significantly more supply was able to reach U.S. ports faster,” the White House post on social media said.

The price of Brent crude oil, the international standard, retreated on the news, vacillating between $103 a barrel and more than $107 still early 50% higher than where it was on Feb. 28, when the war began.

The squeeze on shipments through the strait has rippled through global maritime trade

VCU to create memorial for remains found in well

BY ALLEN G BREED Associated Press

Virginia Commonwealth University will spend $3.6 million on a memorial for dozens of people, most of African descent, whose bodies were stolen from their graves, dissected by medical students and then dumped in a forgotten well.

The Richmond school’s board of visitors voted Friday to fund what VCU calls the East Marshall Street Well Project, an effort to right wrongs committed more than a century ago. Construction of the memorial and burial site are expected to start in summer of 2027.

“Years ago, VCU initiated this journey because we recognized a profound obligation to restore the human dignity of the people who were not afforded respect in their physical existence,” VCU

President Michael Rao said in a story about the effort posted on the school’s website. “The East Marshall Street Well Project’s sacred mission is to ensure every life is honored with the permanence and reverence they deserve.”

The circular memorial will feature a “unity chamber” inspired by the Toguna structures of Dogon culture in West Africa. Its design is intended to encourage humility and thoughtful discussion by purposefully having a low roof to facilitate seated reflection,” said Stephen Davenport, assistant vice president for social and economic development in the VCU Division of Community Engagement and the administrative lead for the project

Workers in 1994 uncovered a bricklined well containing human bones during construction of the Kontos Medical Sciences Building on the VCU medical center campus. Sifting through mud, researchers also found hair and skin, as well as remnants of leather shoes and glass bottles.

Based on archival records from the Medical College of Virginia, researchers believe the remains were dumped in the well between the 1840s and 1860s.

“A preliminary anthropological analysis of the recovered human remains showed some postmortem signs of dissection and amputation consistent with anatomical training and surgical procedure practice,” VCU researchers concluded in a paper published this year “The constant demand for cadavers led to routine grave robbing practices, mainly targeting African American burial grounds, to supply the medical school.”

Archaeologists were given a short time to examine the burial site after the 1994 discovery Before construction continued, the remains were removed by backhoes and sent to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History Initial analysis estimated that a minimum of 44 adults and nine children were recovered from the well.

DNA study results released in February identified at least 43 distinct adults and three juveniles of “predominantly African heritage,” most likely from Central-West Africa Several sets of remains bore traces of European ancestry

Body of 1 missing USF student ID’d, 1 still missing, roommate charged

BY CLAUDIA LAUER and REBECCA BOONE Associated Press

The body of one of the two Bangladeshi doctoral students missing from the University of South Florida was found on a bridge over Tampa Bay, and his roommate has been taken into custody, law enforcement authorities said Friday Zamil Limon’s remains were found on the Howard Frankland bridge Friday morning, but Nahida Bristy is still missing, Hillsborough County Chief Deputy Joseph Maurer said. Limon’s roommate in an off-campus apartment, Hisham Saleh Abugharbeih, 26, was taken into custody at his family’s home nearby on preliminary charges that include unlawfully moving a dead body, failure to report a death, tampering with evidence, false imprisonment and battery

Officers encountered Abugharbeih as they responded to a report of domestic violence at his family’s home, just north of the campus, and were able to remove his relatives to safety But then he barricaded himself inside and refused to come out. A SWAT team responded, along with a drone, a robot and crisis negotiators, before Abugarbeih came out with his hands up wearing nothing but a blue towel. Limon and Bristy, both 27, were a couple, considering marriage, a relative said. They disappeared from campus on April 16. Limon, who was studying geography environmental science and policy was last seen at his home in an apartment complex where he lived with Abugharbeih. Bristy, who was studying chemical engineering and lived on campus, was last seen an hour later at a campus science building.

flows, including through the Panama Canal nearly halfway around the world.

Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts

Pakistan has been trying to get U.S. and Iranian officials back to the table after Trump this week announced an indefinite extension of the ceasefire with Iran, honoring Islamabad’s request for more time for diplomatic outreach.

That hasn’t lowered tensions in the strait, a strategic waterway through which a fifth of the world’s oil and natural gas is shipped during peacetime.

Iran has kept its stranglehold on traffic through the strait, attacking three ships earlier this week, while the U.S. is maintaining a blockade on Iranian ports and Trump has ordered the military to “shoot and kill” small boats that could be placing mines.

Washington already has three aircraft carriers in the region, in the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea and Red Sea.

Trump’s asylum ban at the border illegal, court rules

BY MICHAEL KUNZELMAN and LINDSAY WHITEHURST Associated Press

WASHINGTON An appeals court on Friday blocked President Donald Trump’s executive order suspending asylum access at the southern border of the U.S., a key pillar of the Republican president’s plan to crack down on migration.

A three-judge panel from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit found that immigration laws give people the right to apply for asylum at the border and the president can’t circumvent that.

The court opinion stems from action taken by Trump on Inauguration Day 2025, when he declared that the situation at the southern border constituted an invasion of America and that he was “suspending the physical entry” of migrants and their ability to seek asylum until he decides it is over

The panel concluded that the Immigration and Nationality Act doesn’t authorize the president to remove the plaintiffs under “procedures of his own making,” allow him to suspend plaintiffs’ right to apply for asylum or curtail procedures for adjudicating their antitorture claims.

“The power by proclamation to temporarily suspend the entry of specified foreign individuals into the United States does not contain implicit authority to override the INA’s mandatory process to summarily remove foreign individuals,” wrote Judge J. Michelle Childs, who was nominated to the bench by Democratic President Joe Biden. The administration can ask the full appeals court to reconsider the ruling or go to the Supreme Court. The order doesn’t formally take effect until after the court considers any request to reconsider

PHOTO PROVIDED By VCU

People attend a memorial service standing behind caskets containing the remains of dozens of people whose remains were found in an abandoned well on the campus of VCU in Richmond, Va., in 2019.

Violent tornado tears through Oklahoma town

At least 40 homes damaged but no deaths reported

BY SEAN MURPHY Associated Press

ENID, Okla. — Raeann Hunt scrambled to her cellar as a tornado bore down on her Oklahoma community “It is headed right for us,” she recalled thinking, as she peeked outside, unable to contain her curiosity

Huddled inside the dark 8-by-8 foot concrete shelter with her husband brother-in-law and a neighbor, she heard roaring, metal slapping on the door and glass breaking Afterward, they emerged unscathed, but found the windows smashed out of the one-story brick home in Enid and the roof badly damaged.

The scene was repeated Thursday night across the city of about 50,000 people about 85 miles north of Oklahoma City as the EF4 tornado hit. It was on the ground for 9 miles packing winds of 170 to 175 mph and measuring 500 yards across at its widest, said Rick Smith, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service.

For those 30 to 40 minutes, at least 40 homes were damaged,

some blown off their foundations.

But no one was killed and only minor injuries were reported.

“People around here have a plan,” Hunt explained, noting that residents of this tornado-alley state are trained to either take shelter in a room near the center of their home or get underground.

Basements aren’t common in Oklahoma because of the red clay soil and elevated water tables that make it difficult and expensive to install them, but many homes like Hunt’s — have storm cellars or safe rooms with reinforced concrete walls where people can take cover

People here also know to flip on the TV and set up weather alerts on their phones — particularly in the springtime, when the risk of violent twisters is highest.

“Especially in Oklahoma, we have great meteorologists,” said Justin Hunt of Enid, who described the storm’s aftermath as a “disaster.”

Storm leaves rubble in its wake

Commercial buildings just south of the city were turned into a pile of twisted metal, splintered wood and insulation by powerful winds that pushed the buildings completely off the concrete foundations.

The tornado knocked down

utility poles and left power lines wrapped with huge chunks of debris. A home had part of its metal roof torn off and trees were left stripped of bark and limbs At another home, a section of one wall had peeled away to reveal the interior of the home with some furniture still in place.

“Usually when we come to a neighborhood that’s been hit this bad, there’s one or two deaths,” Oklahoma Gov Kevin Stitt said during a news conference Friday “We’re just so thankful there

wasn’t a loss of life.”

People pick through rubble Police and fire departments and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol conducted multiple home searches, rescuing some trapped residents, Enid Mayor David Mason said Friday

“Supplies have poured in already,” Mason posted online. “This is who Enid is in challenging moments — we continue to show up for one another.”

Dave Lamerton of Enid spent Fri-

day morning salvaging what was left of his son Joseph’s woodworking shop just south of the city, along with some family members and a group of volunteers who traveled from Kansas to help with cleanup.

“The tornado just swung right through here and just hit us directly,” Lamerton said, pointing to a giant mess of splintered wood beams, furniture, debris and heavy machinery that was pushed into a massive pile at the edge of the building’s foundation. “We’ve got stuff on the property we can’t even find.”

Air Force base is damaged

Fences and some equipment were knocked down at nearby Vance Air Force Base, about 80 miles north of Oklahoma City The base was closed until further notice “due to ongoing power and water restoration efforts,” it posted online Friday

Everyone assigned to the base has been accounted for and no injuries were reported, 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs Chief Ashley D. Hendricks said in an email Friday In Kearney, Missouri, north of Kansas City, officials reported downed trees, debris blocking roadways and damage to homes on Thursday night after storms passed through the area.

Fires blamed for death of firefighter, destruction of 120 Ga. homes

BY EMILIE MEGNIEN and RUSS BYNUM Associated Press

NAHUNTA, Ga. — A volunteer fire-

fighter died battling a wildfire in northern Florida while more than 120 homes have been destroyed in southeast Georgia and thousands more remain threatened by two large blazes, one of which investigators suspect was sparked by an aluminum party balloon touching power lines, officials said Friday

An unusually large number of wildfires are burning this spring across the Southeast, where scientists say the threat of fire has been amplified by a combination of extreme drought, gusty winds, climate change and dead trees still littering some forests after being

toppled by Hurricane Helene in 2024.

In northern Florida, the Nassau County Sheriff’s Office said Friday that volunteer firefighter

James “Kevin” Crews suffered an unspecified medical emergency while suppressing a brush fire.

Crews was rushed to a hospital where he died Thursday evening, according to a news release posted to social media.

“Kevin was the epitome of courage and dedication,” Hilliard Volunteer Fire Chief Jerry Johnson said in a statement “His sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

‘No way to stop this’ without rain

After getting a firsthand look at firefighting efforts in southeast Georgia, Gov Brian Kemp told re-

porters that state officials believe 87 homes burned in rural Brantley County this week are the most ever destroyed by a single wildfire in the state’s history

An additional 35 homes have been lost to a larger fire burning in sparsely populated Clinch and Echols counties near the Florida state line, Kemp said. That blaze has burned about 50 square miles, an area twice the size of Manhattan.

Kemp said investigators suspect the Brantley County fire was sparked by an aluminum party balloon that touched live power lines, creating an electrical arc that sparked flames on the ground.

Spread across more than 11 square miles and still growing, the Brantley County blaze was 15% contained Friday, the Georgia

Forestry Commission said. An estimated 4,000 homes in the county were under evacuation orders Friday, said commission spokesperson Seth Hawkins.

“There’s no way to stop this fire,” Kemp said. “They’re having to contain the flanks and the back of it and then, hopefully, we get a change in the weather.”

No fire deaths or injuries have been reported in Georgia.

Firefighters are battling more than 150 other wildfires in Georgia and Florida that have sent smoky haze into places far from the flames, triggering air quality warnings for some cities.

‘I’m one of the lucky ones’ Michael Gibson was at his job Thursday at a chicken feed pro-

ducer when his fiancée called urging him to come home. By the time he arrived, firefighters were already on the road where Gibson, his fiancée and their four children lived. He said he took his family to safety and tried to return to salvage belongings, but police stopped him.

Gibson said the fire consumed his mobile home and one beside it where his fiancée’s brother lived. His family has been staying in a camper on a relative’s property

“We’ve lost everything, but I’m one of the lucky ones,” Gibson said Friday “We’ve been prepared to leave. And I’m truly blessed to have my family and to have somewhere to sleep. A lot of people in my county didn’t make it out with the clothes on their backs.”

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By ALONZO ADAMS

A man clears debris at a commercial woodworking shop in Enid, Okla., on Friday in the aftermath of a tornado.

DOJdrops criminal probeofFed chairPowell

“not appropriate.”

BY CHRISTOPHER RUGABER and ERIC TUCKER Associated Press

WASHINGTON The JusticeDepartment has endedits investigation into Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell, clearing amajor roadblock to the confirmation of Kevin Warsh as his successor U.S. Attorney forthe Districtof Columbia Jeannine Pirro said on X Friday that her office was ending its probe into the Fed’sextensive building renovationsbecause the Fed’sinspector general would scrutinize them instead. The move could lead to aswift confirmation vote by the Senate for Warsh, aformer top Fed official whomPresident Donald Trump, a Republican, nominated in January to replace Powell. Powell’sterm as chair ends May 15. Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., had said he would oppose Warsh until the investigation was resolved, effectively blocking

hisconfirmation Republicans praised Warsh during aTuesday hearing even as Democrats questioned hisindependence from Trump,the lack of transparency around some of his financial holdings,and what they said was hisflip-flopping on interest rates. Still,Trump’sprevious appointment to the Fed’sboard of governors, Stephen Miran, was approved by thefullSenatejust 13 days afterhis nomination.

Investigationlackedevidence

Pirro’sinvestigation focused on a$2.5 billion building renovation that Trumpcriticized sharply last yearfor its costoverruns. Trump visited the building last July and on camerapresented to Powell an inflated costestimate, which Powellcorrected as the two stoodat the construction site in hard hats.

Earlier estimates for theproject had put the cost at $1.9 billion. The investigation also covered Powell’s brieftestimonyabout therenovation before theSenateBanking Committee last June.

The probe was among several undertaken by the Justice De-

partment intoTrump’sperceived adversaries. For months it had failed to gain traction as prosecutors struggled to articulate abasis to suspect criminal conduct.Other efforts by thedepartmenttoprosecute Trump’sadversaries, including New York state Attorney General LetitiaJames, aDemocrat, and former FBIDirector James Comey, have also been unsuccessful.

Aprosecutor handling the Powell caseconceded at aclosed-door courthearing in March that the government hadn’tfound any evidence of acrime, and ajudge subsequently quashed subpoenas issued to theFederal Reserve.The judge, James Boasberg, said prosecutors had produced “essentially zero evidence” to suspect Powell of acrime. Boasbergbranded prosecutors’ justification for the subpoenas as “thin and unsubstantiated.”

Theinvestigation wasthe most brazenattempt yetbythe Trump administration to pressure theFed to cut its short-term interest rate, which indirectlyaffects other borrowing costs for mortgages, auto loans and business loans. Trump hasobsessively attacked Powellfor

not cutting the rate fromits current level of about 3.6% to 1%, alevel thatnoFed official supports. Powell says it wasintimidation

Instead,Fed policymakers, including Powell, have said they want to keep rates unchanged while they evaluate theimpact of the Iran war,which has sent gas prices soaring, pushingupinflation. The increase could be aonetime shift but could also lead to more sustained inflation.The Fed seeks to restrain rising prices by keeping interestrates high, cooling borrowing and spending. Powell saidinJanuary that the investigation was notreally about the renovation or his testimony but“is aconsequence of theFederal Reserve setting interest rates based on our best assessment of what will serve thepublic,rather thanfollowing thepreferences of thePresident.”

More recently,prosecutors made an unannounced visit to aconstruction siteatthe Fed’sheadquarters but were turnedaway,drawinga rebuke from adefense attorney in thecase who called the maneuver

Warshpromisesindependence

Warsh said during ahearing by the Senate Banking Committee on Tuesday that he never promised the White House that he would cut interest rates, even as the president renewed his calls forthe central bank to do so.

“The president neveronceasked me to committo any particular interest rate decision, period,” Warshsaidunder questioning by the Senate Banking Committee. “Nor would Iever agree to do so if he had.”

Trump hastaken otherunprecedentedsteps to trytopressure the Fed, including an attempt last August to fire Lisa Cook, amember of the Fed’sgoverning board,who was appointed by Biden. Yetcourts have temporarily blocked the firing, and, at an oral argumentinJanuary,the Supreme Court appeared sympathetictothe argument that Cook should keep her job.

DOJtoallow useoffiringsquadsfor capitalpunishment

Administrationmoves to ramp up capital punishment cases

BY ALANNA DURKIN RICHER Associated Press

WASHINGTON The JusticeDepartment will adopt firing squads as a permitted method of executionas the Trump administration moves to ramp up and expedite capital punishment cases, officials said Friday The Justice Department is also reauthorizing the use of singledrug lethal injections with pentobarbitalthat were used to carry

out 13 executions during the first Trump administration —more than under any president in modern history.The Biden administration had removed pentobarbital from the federal protocol over concerns aboutthe potentialfor unnecessary painand suffering. Themoves were announced as part of abroader pushtostepup federal executionsafter amoratoriumunder the Biden administration.Onlythree defendants remain on federal death row after Democratic President Joe Biden converted37oftheirsentences to life in prison, though the Trump administration has so farauthorized seeking deathsentences against 44 defendants.

“The prior administration failed in itsduty to protect theAmerican people by refusing to pursue and carry out theultimate punishmentagainstthe mostdangerous criminals, including terrorists, childmurderers, andcop killers,” Acting AttorneyGeneral Todd Blanche said in astatement. “Under President Trump’sleadership, the Department of Justice is once again enforcing the law and standing with victims.”

The federal government has not previously included firing squad as amethod of execution in its protocols,according to theDeath Penalty Information Center.Five states currently allowexecutions by firingsquad:Idaho,Mississippi, Okla-

homa, South Carolina, and Utah.

Thepentobarbitalprotocolwas adopted by Bill Barr,attorney general during Trump’sfirst term,to replace athree-drug mix used in the2000s, the last timefederal executionswere carried out before Trump’sfirst term in office.

Attorney General Merrick Garland in the finaldays of the Biden administration withdrew the pentobarbital lethal injectionpolicyafter agovernment reviewofscientific and medical research found there remains “significant uncertainty” about whetherits usecausesunnecessary pain and suffering.”

In 2020, under Barr’sleadership, theJusticeDepartment published arule in the Federal Register to

allowthe federalgovernment to conduct executions by lethal injection or use “any other manner prescribedbythe lawofthe state in which the sentence was imposed.”

Anumberofstates allowother methodsofexecution,including electrocution, inhaling nitrogen gas or death by firing squad.

TheTrump administration,ina report released Friday, said the Biden administration “got the standard andthe science wrong.”The Biden administration’s findings, amongother things,“failed to address the overwhelming evidence” that an injected withpentobarbital quickly “quickly loses consciousness —rendering him unable to experience pain,” the report said.

Soldiercharged forpredictionmarketbetsonMadurogranted bond

BY GARYD.ROBERTSON Associated Press

RALEIGH,N.C. AU.S.special forces soldier was granted bond Friday on charges that he used classified information about the mission to capture Venezuelan PresidentNicolás Maduro to win more than $400,000 on the prediction market Polymarket, afederal magistrate said Friday The magistrate in North Carolina who authorized Gannon Ken VanDyke’srelease told him to report to aNew York federalcourthouse by Tuesday to continue his case there.

Bearded with arm tattoos, VanDyke said little during the nearly hourlong hearing, during which he was appointedafederal public defender who declined to comment afterward. The $250,000 unsecured bond did not require VanDyke to put up any money Federal prosecutors say VanDykeusedhis access to classified information about the operation to capture Maduro in January to win money on Polymarket, one of the largest prediction mar-

kets. The sitesallowpeople to trade on almost anything —from theSuper Bowl to U.S. electionsand thewinners ofthe TV reality shows.

VanDyke,who is stationed at Fort Bragg near Fayetteville, North Carolina,was charged Thursdaywith the unlawful useofconfidential government information for personal gain, theft of nonpublic government information, commodities fraud, wire fraud and making an unlawful monetarytransaction. He could faceupto10 years on four of the criminal counts, andupto20years on afifth, the government said Friday

VanDyke, 38, was involved for about amonth in theplanning and execution of capturing Maduro,accordingtothe New York federal prosecutor’soffice.Hesigned nondisclosure agreements promising to not divulge “any classifiedorsensitiveinformation” relatedtothe operations,but prosecutors say he usedwhat he knew to make aseriesof bets relatedtoMadurobeing outofpower by Jan. 31

Polymarket CEO Shayne Coplan said in apost on X that the company flagged the

suspicious activity, turned it over to thegovernmentand cooperated with the investigation.

Massive profitsfrom welltimed betsaroused public attention days after the raid in Venezuela and brought bipartisan calls for stricter regulation of the markets.

Thesuddenrise of these marketshas led to growing scrutiny by Congress and state governments. Some lawmakersalarmed by highly specific, well-timed trades have pushed for guardrails against insider trading.

TheTrump administration has been supportive of the industry’sexpansion. The president’seldest son is an adviserfor both Polymarket and itsmain competitor, Kalshi, and is aPolymarket investor.Trump’ssocial media platform,TruthSocial, is launching its own prediction market called Truth Predict.

TheCommodity Futures Trading Commission, the federal agencythatregulates prediction markets, announced Thursday that it hadfileda parallel complaint against VanDyke. Thatcomplaint allegesthat VanDyke moved $35,000

from hispersonal bankaccount intoacryptocurrency

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Warsh

high school student,died after being shot in the chest.

Of the five others shot, fourhave been released from thehospital and one, 43-year-old Donnie Guillory,remains in critical condition, authorities said Friday

In the immediate hours following the shooting, four persons of interest turned themselves in to Baton Rouge police but were later released, Morse said.

Livingston Parish sheriff’s deputies also arrested aman whileinvestigating themall shooting.Authorities latersaid he was booked on counts unrelated to the shooting, adding at the time that theyhad no evidence tying him to the shooting.

At Friday’snews conference, Morse said the four persons of interest whowerereleased are still being lookedatand couldlater be charged.

“They were definitelyinvolved in some way or the other,” Morse said. “They refused to answer questions. They lawyered up. We didn’thave anything else to be able to hold them.”

The chief said he hopes that ballistic evidence andDNA will reveal more about their connection to the shooting. It is unclear whether they are juveniles or adults.

‘Not arandomincident’

The chief echoed what he said detectives believed the day before, that evidence continuestopoint to-

MURDER

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would have happened in our town.” Sam O’Keefe, aformer Covington City Council member who was 28 years old at thetime Sharp’sbody was found, said that her murder,along with another murder afew years before caused “shock and awe” in the small town.

“Wejust didn’thave that. That was areallybig thing to have amurder in the city of Covington,” O’Keefe said.

At one point in the 1980s, fabulist serialkiller Henry Lee Lucas confessed to murdering Sharp and three other people in St. Tammany Parish, but Lucas later recanted those claims and investigators debunked them.

And over time the Sharp murder case eventually went cold.

It essentially stayed that way until Friday,when agathering of law enforcement officers announced arrests of fourmen,all now in their 60s, in Sharp’srape and murder

The arrests, authorities say,came thanks in partto new leadsgenerated by a podcast last year that shined anew lightonthe girl’sbrutal murder

“Today,wehope this brings ameasure of justice for Roxanne and abeginning of healing for her family,” Louisiana State Police Cpl. Robert P. Hodges saidata news conference on Friday morning in Covington.

Northshore District Attorney Collin Sims said his office will present the case in front of agrand jury in the next fewweeks.

Sharp, of Covington, was reported missing on Feb.

ward theshootingbeing targeted.

“Weknow that this was nota random incident,” Morse said. “We know thatthis was two groups of peoplethat metupatthe mall, exchanged words,pulled guns and then innocent peoplewerehit.”

Morsesaidinvestigatorsare still tryingtodetermine whether the shooting stemmed from gangrelated activity

The shooting occurredabout 1:22 p.m.insidethe foodcourtof themall. Initial reports said that several suspectsquickly fled the

9, 1982. Her body wasdiscoveredthree days later by participants in the Dixie Trail ride, atrain of covered wagons that would annually travel from Covingtonto Baton Rouge.

Although her murder was ashocktothe smallcommunity,podcaster Charles Dowdy said he thought it might have beenovershadowed by thenotion of two potential serial killers in the Covington area. There was Lucas, thefake serial killer,Dowdy said, as well as Robert Lee Willie, a Covingtonnativeand member of theAryan Brotherhood who hadkilled multiple people, butwas in jail at the time of Sharp’smurder Willie was featured in the 1993book by Sister Helen Prejean, “Dead Man Walking,” which later became an Academy-Award-winning moviewith Sean Penn.

“I feel like in alot of respectsthey overshadowed whathappenedtoRoxanne,” said Dowdy Sharpwas enrolled ina local tradeschool that sheleft shortly before her death, Dowdysaid Authorities in St. Tammany Parishinvestigated the Sharp killing,but no arrests were made. Andthendecades wentbywithnomore informationabout Sharp’s murder

In 2023, detectives with theLouisiana StatePolice CovingtonField Officeassumed the lead investigative role, re-interviewed witnesses and potential suspects, resubmitted original evidence for DNA analysis andstartedtolookfor additional evidence.

Twoyears later,in2025, State Police asked in aFacebook post for anyone with information to come forward.

scene.

As of Fridayafternoon,officials said nothing has indicated anyof theperpetrators themselves were struck by gunfire.

DistrictAttorneyHillar Moore cautioned the public to be patient, saying such cases involve detailed evidencethattakes time to investigate.

Moore said he thinks physical evidence will do theheavy lifting.

“Trust me, nobody wantstocome forward and say what happened to give information on another co-

They said they believed the killer, or killers, werelocal residents.

That same year,Dowdy, aradio host at Lake94.7, came out with his podcast, “Who KilledRoxanne Sharp?” He said he had floated theideaofdoing a podcast on acoldcaseto some officers with the State Police,and they took himup on the idea, suggesting they focus on Sharp.

New leads and witnesses generated by the podcast, along with newDNA technology,helped officials close the case, authorities saidon Friday When themurderoccurred in 1982, detectives were challengedbecause of a“culture of fear in the area withthe people involved, said Lt. HeathMiller of the StatePolice.

“The podcastwas acrucial,crucial part of getting us information that we needed,” Miller said.

The Sharp casewas among ahandful of St. Tammany Parishkillings that had gone unsolved over the decades,including Margaret Coon, alawyer and former prosecutor who was fatally stabbedin1987 while walking herAfghanhound in a gated Mandeville-area subdivision.

Coon’s death was thesubject of a2021 podcast, as was the unsolved2017 death of Nanette Krentel.

While the Coon and Krentel murders remain unsolved, northshore District Attorney Simsnoted that thearrestsinthe Sharp case markthe second time apodcast helped law enforcement officers crack an unsolved case northshore homicide. A podcast about the 2017 murderofDonna Arceneauxin Washington Parish led to an

defendant,” he said.“Theseofficershavetowork this casefrom the bottom up. …Have to wait for phone data. They have to workfor evidence, waitfor DNA.”

Politicalattention

Some elected officials usedFriday’snews conference to assure residentsthat the mallissafe and that the people responsible forthe shooting will be brought to justice.

Some also used it to call out judges andwarn criminals aboutwhat is coming next.

Gov. Jeff Landry spokeatlength, claiming judges shoulder much of theblame forcommunity violence saying they “are not social workers with agavel” and areletting criminals off withweak sentences.

“When judges refuse to enforce boundaries or consequences, they’re not rehabilitating anyone,” Landry said. “Whatthey’re doing is abandoningyoung people,until atragedy like this becomes inevitable. And you know what? That’s not justice, that’snegligence.”

State Sen. Rick Edmonds, acongressional candidate, said he has called for federallaw enforcement to come to Baton Rouge.

Lastyear,discussions surrounding apossible National Guard presence in Baton Rouge surged after Landry publicly requested theactivation of 1,000 troops from thefederal government.

Moore pointed out that Baton Rouge has its own unique problems that do not necessarily mirrorother cities where troops have been deployed to patrol the streets.

indictment last year for her killing, he said.

“I’m extremelyexcited that this collaboration worked,”said Dowdy

In astatement, Covington Police DepartmentChief Michael Ferrell said, “Weare proud of thework done by every investigator who touched this caseand deeply grateful forthe partnership that made this moment possible.”

Family members have been supportiveofthe investigation, authorities said, but the family has asked to stay out of thespotlight and thefamily was not available to discuss the arrestsatthe news conference on Friday Hodges would not say if

Mayor-President SidEdwards, whospoke first at the newsconference, vowed that those responsible forthe shooting will be caught. He thenurgedthe public nottomake assumptions about groups of people before turning the microphone over to others.

“Do notstereotype or pigeonhole or profile all our young people,” he said.

Edwards worked as afootball coach at Istrouma High School in a predominantly Black area of town.

“I spent my entire life ministering to young people as acoach and ateacher,” Edwards said. “And 99% of our young people in Baton Rouge, whether they’re black, white,red, blue, Baptist, Catholic, are law-abiding citizens. They’re just out there trying to make it and doing the right thing. So please, we don’tneed that judgment. We just need your prayers.”

there will be additional arrests in the Sharp case, but said it is possible if new evidence or leads wereuncovered.

Thefour men whohave been arrested wereknown to have associated with the victim, according to Hodges. The men are:

Perry Wayne Taylor,64, of Covington, Darrell Dean Spell, 64, of Covington, Carlos Cooper,64, of Covington, and Billy WilliamsJr.,62, of Covington.

Williams was arrested by State Police on April 21 at his homeinCovington and booked into St. Tammany Parish Jail. Spell wasarrested by agents with the Ohio

Attorney General’s Bureau of CriminalInvestigationat aresidence in Dayton, Ohio, and was booked into the Montgomery County Jail, whereheisawaiting extradition to Louisiana. Taylor and Cooper arecurrently incarcerated with the Louisiana Department of Corrections on convictions in unrelated crimes, State Police said. According to a1984 articleinThe Times-Picayune, Taylor wassentenced to 21 years in prison for his role in a1978 killing committedby Robert LeeWillie,who was his cousin. Staff writer Bob Warren contributed to this report.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Martha Odom was asenior at AscensionEpiscopal School in youngsville

STAFF PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

of the shooting at the Mall of Louisiana on Friday

BY MICHAEL KUNZELMAN and OPE ADETAYO Associated Press

WASHINGTON AU.S. Army major employed as anurse on amilitary base near Washington, D.C., has been chargedwithconspiring to provide financial andtactical support to separatist fighters in his native Cameroon, accordingtocourt records unsealed earlier this week.

Maj. Kenneth Chungag, a nurse wholivesand works on Fort Belvoir in Virginia, is accused of using his military training and experience to assist the Ambazonia Defense Forces in Cameroon. Chungag is “greatlydismayed by these charges and looksforward to atimely andjustresolution of the matter,” defenseattorney Robert Jenkinstold TheAssociated Press in an email

Friday Chungag, a50-year-old naturalized U.S. citizen, and co-defendant MercyAkwi Ombaku were arrested Monday on federal conspiracy charges.Amagistrate judge orderedtheir release from custody after initial court appearances in Alexandria, Virginia. Prosecutorsdidn’t seektheir pretrial detention. In 2020, Chungagwas stationed at Fort Meade in

Maryland when he first expressed interest in assisting members of the ADF,according to theFBI affidavit. In online chats with ADF members in Cameroon, Chungag falsely claimed to have combat experience in Iraq but appeared to be embellishing his militarybackground to raise his profile in thegroup, theaffidavit says. Chungag is accused of plotting with Ombaku, a

Maryland resident, to transfer money from the U.S. to Cameroon for the purchase of AK-47assault rifles. Investigators believe Chungag grew disillusioned and withdrew from the organization in 2024.

Laterthatyear, FBI agents questionedhim abouthis ADF-related activities. Investigators believe he tried to destroy incriminating evidence by deleting ADF-

related messages from his phone after the FBI contacted him Cameroon, with apopulation of roughly 31 million, has been ruled by Paul Biya since 1982, makinghim one of Africa’slongest-serving rulers. The ADF is aseparatist military organization in southern Cameroon fighting forthe Anglophone regionto breakawayfromthe central African country

N.O.-based APphotographerwho captured assassinationattempt on JamesMeredithdies

BY KEVIN McGILLand JEFF AMY Associated Press

NEW ORLEANS FormerAssociated Press photographerJackThornell, whose Pulitzer Prize-winning picture of ashotgun-felledJames Meredith looking backtoward his would-be assassin on aMississippi highway in 1966 becamean

enduringimageofthe Civil Rights Movement,has died. He was 86. Thornell died Thursday at ahospital in Metairie from complications from kidney disease, his son Jay said Friday He worked for theAPfrom 1964 to 2004 and had avariety of assignmentsoverthe years, photographing politicians,natural disasters,

crime scenes. Butthe struggle for racial justice punctuated Thornell’swire service career from the beginning. He covered theintegration of aMississippi Gulf Coast school on his first dayofwork for theAPNew Orleansbureau.

In June 1966, Thornell, then 26, was assignedtocover acivil rights marchled by Meredith, whohad

already made history by integrating theUniversity of Mississippi in 1962, and wasmounting a“March Against Fear” through the state encouraging Black residents to register and vote.

Meredith was walking on U.S. Highway 51 near Hernando, Mississippi, and Thornell and arivalphotographer were in acar

parkedroadside,whenthe sound of the first shotgun blast sent them scrambling.

One resulting Thornellimage was the Pulitzer-winning photo: Meredith is on the ground at the edge of the highway with arms extended and hands on the pavement —it’sunclear if he is still falling or pushing himself up after the fall.

the biggest stage at Jazz Fest And he elevated lots of other people in the process. Michael Cerveris is a Tony Award-winning Broadway star with a long résumé in TV and movies who splits his time between New York and New Orleans.

In New Orleans, he and singer Kimberly Kaye cultivated a hybrid country/rock/Americana band called Loose Cattle.

At the Fais Do-Do Stage on Friday, Loose Cattle demonstrated just how far the band’s stage presence and sound have come. Cerveris’ electric guitar shared space with Alex McMurray’s and with Rurik Nunan’s violin. Ominous guitars swooped and raged in “The Shoals” as Kaye wailed in a metallic gold dress. Just as quickly, the storm passed as the band quieted down for a new song called “Quiet Town.”

Kaye invested herself in every number, her voice clear and strong. She also did a credible impression of the titular character in “Sidewalk Chicken.”

The band fully inhabited Lucinda Williams’ New Orleans tribute “Crescent City,” with Kaye, Cerveris and Nunan harmonizing out front over a supple foundation by bassist Rene Coman and drummer Doug Garrison.

Cerveris described the eclectic audience as “looking like I grew up believing the country should look like.” He then encouraged random kindness, such as letting the shorter person behind you stand in front of you. Or buying a rosemint tea for someone else in line.

Such small gestures won’t change the world, Cerveris acknowledged. But on a micro level, they might make it a little nicer

Cyril Neville reps his brothers

Cyril Neville spent many years closing down Jazz Fest’s main stage on the final Sunday with the Neville Brothers. He’s now the last of the four Brothers still performing. Art and Charles are deceased, and Aaron is retired and living on a farm in upstate New York.

Cyril fronted his own band at Jazz Fest’s Festival Stage on Friday The red, yellow, orange and white boas decorating the microphone stands matched his shirt, bandanna and hat, as well as the stage decor Now 77 and as lean as ever, Neville came out dancing and spinning like a much younger man. From behind his percussion rig, he led his band through Steve Miller’s “Fly Like An Eagle,” which the

CRAWFISH

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the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival involves five weeks of preparation, some 4,500 pounds of crawfish, nine hulking convection ovens, hundreds of sheet pans and multiple 3-hour drives.

This year, it also involved amassing peeled crawfish amid a worker shortage. And, on the fest’s first morning, dealing with an oven on the fritz.

But Laborde, 67, is quick to laugh, even as he’s on his knees, handing over a screwdriver Over decades of slinging bread at the fest and catering events in the parish, he has built a team he can count on, a community that has his back.

His high school theater teacher gave him the recipe, decades ago, for the dough. The manager of a funeral home, a frequent partner, is his best friend. Three generations of one Marksville family have worked for him in the kitchen

Then there’s his family: One of his sons, Nicholas, handles Panaroma Foods’ online presence, from shipping to Facebook videos His other son, Christopher, a retired National Guard mechanic handles the equipment, including the bum oven. His stepdaughter, Elizabeth Mayeaux, does the bookkeeping and takes the catering orders.

“What size jambalaya?” she asked a caller on Monday, marking a form. They all try to keep Laborde from answering the phone. Because they know that he’ll agree to another wedding, another luncheon. But as a rule, the company won’t turn down a funeral.

“When somebody passes away, you do it,” he said, shrugging, “whether Jazz Fest is tomorrow or not.”

‘You can sell this!’

It started with sausage bread

Laborde was in his 20s, living in Lafayette and selling antidepressants for a drug company when he began baking sausage bread for

Neville Brothers covered on their 1992 album “Family Groove.”

Neville, like Cerveris earlier, commented on the crowd’s makeup: “Look at that rainbow a rainbow of humanity.”

In another Neville Brothers nod, he said “we used to do this with some friends of ours known as the Dead.” With Cyril’s son Omari Neville working the drum kit and Shamarr Allen playing pocket trumpet with the horn section, they conjured a version of the Grateful Dead’s “Fire On the Mountain” that ran Mississippi River deep and slow The groove rolled into the Brothers’ “Brother Jake,” from 1990’s “Brother’s Keeper” album The Neville Brothers may be no more, but Cyril represented their legacy at the fest.

Batiste’s many friends I intended to break away from Jon Batiste’s closing set at some point to see a bit of Lorde — who played to a big crowd at the Gentilly Stage and Sean Paul at the Congo Square Stage. I really did. But Jon Batiste got started 20 minutes late. And once he got

his friends, also salespeople.

“And salesmen being what they are, they said, ‘You can sell this!’”

So he did, on the side. He’d been bored at work, meeting his weekly quota by Wednesday Eventually

he talked to his boss, who encouraged him to follow this path and told him: His leaving would be like a hand pulling from a bucket of water, Laborde said, chuckling.

They’d fill in behind him, as if he were never there.

A faded newspaper article hanging from his wood-paneled office tells the story of “26-year-old John Ed Laborde of Marksville, better known as ‘The Man with the Pan.’”

He brought a sample to the district manager of Kroger He blew insulation into his aunt’s 9-yearold van, turning it into a makeshift frozen food vehicle that, somehow, passed inspection. Soon, he was selling sausage bread in grocery stores across the parish and in Shreveport, Baton Rouge and New Orleans.

“I am giving it the old American try,” he told the reporter, “but I am working harder now than when I did for the drug company.”

Laborde came up with crawfish bread, a calzone-like creation, in the mid-1980s, after Cajun cuisine won fans at the World’s Fair He got into Jazz Fest becoming a hit, then a tradition. He missed just one year, 2023, after the fest’s administration made some changes to the food vendors’ contracts that Laborde couldn’t stomach.

He missed it. And fans missed him, too, showing up in Marksville wearing Jazz Fest shirts.

“I was really low,” he said. “I couldn’t even go fishing.”

So in 2024, after some negotiation, he returned.

Most days, Laborde arrives at the Marksville plant, which flies the Jazz Fest flag, at 3:30 a.m. He bakes cinnamon rolls and chats with the few customers who stop by to talk fishing or politics (Laborde was mayor from 1994 to 1998, and a council member before that.) They included a plumber on a recent Monday, and a pair of construction workers.

By 7 a.m., when his employees clocked in, he’d readied the first batches dough to be rolled, filled, baked, wrapped and frozen.

rolling, I felt compelled to stick around just to see what happened next.

The Blind Boys of Alabama opened his show with an invocation of “Amazing Grace.” Batiste, in a plain black T-shirt tucked into a pair of Levi’s, joined in by thumping on a tambourine.

He built a musical and cultural display with many parts. A choir of 20 or so souls. A brass (band) section. Three female dancers in denim. A brace of male dancers. He reached back to his “Social Music” album for a percussive “Let God Lead,” with its “love will never quit” refrain, as part of the show’s opening salvo. He teased his way into a full-on “Freedom,” from his career-changing, multiple Grammy-winning “We Are” album. The stage was alive with dancers and musicians in ecstatic motion.

He stopped the song to remind the audience, “You only have one life one soul one body one voice. In this performance, we intend to use the full extent of it all. It’s not a performance it’s a spiritual practice. Live in the moment and shake what your mama gave you.”

The audience obliged.

The set turned hard into DJ Jubilee’s “Get It Ready Ready,” then turned again into Batiste’s own “Big Money.” He opened the piano showcase that followed with a bit of “You Are My Sunshine,” then Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” which in turn led to Bruce Hornsby’s “The Way It Is,” overlaid with a Batiste spoken-word meditation on the challenges facing Black youth.

Guitarist Brandon “Taz” Niederauer got a showcase in “Cry,” then later tapped out an “Eruption” on the neck of his guitar

“Chim Chim Cher-ee” from “Mary Poppins” gave way to Batiste’s “I Need You” why not?

Flagboy Giz, in full Black Masking Indian regalia, showcased his own “We Outside.” The young New Orleans rapper La Reezy navigated his “Hardhead.”

Finally, the show swung back to Batiste as he broke out his melodica for the first time The crowd clapped on cue during his “If You’re Happy And You Know It.”

To close out his musical journey, he embarked on a literal one: playing “When the Saints Go Marching In” on melodica while leading the entire collective off the stage, through the VIP sections, then down the chute toward the soundboard and off into the crowd.

Jon Batiste, once again, did not go small at Jazz Fest.

Email Keith Spera at kspera@ theadvocate.com.

The company bought a dough divider But much of the work is still done by hand. And Laborde still mixes each batch.

“What we do, he do just the same,” said Trinese Bryan, 56, who has worked at Panaroma either part- or full-time for 15 years. That includes wrapping bread, she said, and washing dishes.

“Being in the country it’s just different — you have to be in your business,” said James Bernard, founder of J Bernard Seafood.

Since Bernard sold crawfish out of his truck, he’s been supplying Laborde. The two have become friends, too, chatting about the struggles of owning a small business.

Three years ago, Bernard built a new crawfish peeling plant with space for 175 workers. But this year because of delays in the H-2B temporary work visa program, just a few dozen people are peeling.

Getting Laborde the cooked crawfish tail meat he’d need for Jazz Fest was “top priority,” Bernard said “We had his tucked away.”

‘When I start to get nervous’

They’d left Marksville just after 4 on Thursday morning. By 8:30, the team was unloading at the Fair Grounds, behind their booth in Food Area 1. Equipment and extension cords, foil sheets and paper towels.

At 9:10, they lit the ovens.

“This is when I start to get nervous,” Laborde said, still smiling, his hand on one of the ovens in the booth’s back.

“It’s not gonna warm any faster with your hand on it,” said his friend Ryan Bordelon, the funeral home manager By this point, Laborde had put $140,000 into Jazz Fest and, based on past years, he might not sell that much crawfish, shrimp and sausage bread, for $11.50 apiece, until the fifth or sixth day Laborde has never lost money on the festival, he said. But some years, especially the rainy ones, things are tight. So it’s a risk, always.

“I’ve got some bills I’ve gotta pay,” he said. “The propane man, the diesel man. Everybody’s looking for me next week.”

Bordelon warned Laborde that he gives too much away When a train derailed in Marksville last year, Bordelon said, Laborde fed the crews doing cleanup three meals a day for three weeks.

“That’s all stuff you don’t plan for,” he said. “But he can’t turn those down.”

Panaroma Foods is such a catering go-to that folks in the community know not to schedule a wedding when it’s Jazz Fest. “Everything shuts down for that,” Bordelon said. “You’re not allowed to get married in the last weekend of April or the first weekend of May in Avoyelles Parish.”

The first morning of the fest, it was 72 degrees and sunny with a breeze. The forecast, which Laborde had already checked four times that morning, looked good.

A volunteer from the beer tent came by looking for a pallet jack but also for Laborde. They hugged, and Laborde held on. Frank Salvaggio, 68, told Laborde that he’d been hoping to drive to Marksville on his motorcycle but wasn’t sure about a hotel.

“Stay with me!” Laborde said, telling him about his old house, which had once been his grandparents’ house.

The gates opened, and festgoers armed with straw hats and folding chairs arrived, ordering multiples. But the internet went out. An oven refused to get hot. Laborde and his son, Christopher, were on their knees, shining a flashlight into its guts. A clogged propane line, maybe. Laborde shrugged. They had a backup in Marksville. Laborde moved on. He checked in with Bordelon, took a look at customers in line. Steady, but not busy Then he grabbed a crawfish bread, wrapped in foil, and walked over to the man guarding the gate. Laborde handed it to him, giving his shoulder a squeeze.

Email reporter Jenna Ross at jenna.ross@theadvocate.com.

STAFF PHOTOS By DAVID GRUNFELD

John Ed Laborde, creator of crawfish bread, smiles as he begins selling his signature Jazz Fest favorite on Thursday.

STAFF PHOTO By DAVID GRUNFELD

Cyril Neville, the Uptown Ruler, performs on the Festival Stage on Friday at Jazz Fest.

STAFF PHOTO By DAVID GRUNFELD

Jon Batiste fans dance during his performance Friday at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

Lorde performs on the Gentilly Stage on Friday at Jazz Fest.

After

and windyconditions thismorning,expect amostly sunnytopartlycloudy, warm, humid and breezy afternoon with achance of rain. Whilethe worstofthe rainwillbeduring the early morning,wemay also seestorms in the late afternoon. Temperatureswillrise to the mid-80s,which

When you’re comparingplans ... “Medicare&You,”Centersfor

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Early detection canprevent small problems from becoming expensiveones.

The best way to preventlargedental bills is preventive care. The American Dental Association recommends checkups twice ayear.

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Treatment is expensive— especiallythe servicespeople over 50 often need.

Consider these national averagecostsof treatment. $274for acheckup $299 for afilling $1,471 foracrown.3 Unexpected bills likethis canbeareal burden, especially if you’re on afixedincome.

NOLA.COM | Saturday, april 25, 2026 1BN

Judge dismisses teacher’s lawsuit

Ten Commandments challenge ruled premature

BY PATRICK WALL Staff writer

A federal judge dismissed a lawsuit by a New Orleans teacher who had argued that Louisiana’s Ten Commandments law is unconstitutional, the latest in a string of rulings allowing public schools to display the biblical text in classrooms. U.S. District Court Judge Greg

Climate change suit bill moves forward

It would block lawsuits against oil, gas companies

BY DAVID J MITCHELL Staff writer

A bill that would bar lawsuits seeking to hold oil and gas companies liable for damages from global climate change easily cleared a key committee in the Louisiana Legislature on Thursday

State Rep. Brett Geymann, R-Lake Charles, the sponsor of House Bill 804 explained that his bill is an attempt to prevent these kinds of suits from being filed in state courts before a legal effort he says has gained momentum in other states arrives in Louisiana.

Geymann told the House Natural Resources and Environment Committee that up to 40 cases have been brought across the country, primarily by local municipalities against U.S. oil and gas companies. The bill would also apply to other types of companies linked to the fossil fuel industry

He noted the example of the family of a Seattle, Washington, woman who sued oil companies last year in a wrongful death case after she died during a heat wave. Geymann called that suit and others like it “absurd” because they’re attempting to blame the greenhouse gas emissions of entire U.S. economic sectors on individual damages.

“No. 1, you can’t figure out who was to blame. You can’t find the emission. You can’t identify it, so you just sue everyone,” said Geymann, who chairs the committee.

The woman who triggered the Washington suit, Julie Leon, died from heatstroke in June 2021 when temperatures peaked at 108 degrees Fahrenheit.

Filed last year in state court, her suit seeks damages from ExxonMobil, Chevron and other companies, accusing them of spending decades misleading the public about climate change, as the companies continued to produce and burn fossil fuels, according to news accounts.

Earlier suits brought by state and municipal governments have relied on similar legal reasoning. Maui County in Hawaii sued major oil companies in 2020, alleging increasing wildfire risk.

Two years after the 2023 wildfires devastated Maui, the county sued and won a court ruling that beat back a preemptive U.S Justice Department lawsuit attempting to prevent the state from bringing the case, according to Columbia Law School’s Sabin Center for Climate Change Law

In other cases, similar suits have been dismissed, including one brought by the North Carolina

G. Guidry in the Eastern District of Louisiana did not rule on whether the law violates the freedom of speech and religion enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, as the lawsuit argued. Instead, Guidry decided that the teacher’s legal challenge was premature because the law had not yet been enacted when he sued in 2024, leaving “unresolved factual and contextual questions” about the required Ten

Commandments displays.

The ruling is a setback for any teachers looking for a way around the law, which Gov Jeff Landry has directed schools to comply with. Guidry who was nominated to the court by President Donald Trump, rejected the argument that the law tramples on teachers’ rights, noting that the statute requires “public school governing authorities” — not teachers — to

actually post the commandments.

Christopher Dier, the Benjamin Franklin High School history teacher and former Louisiana Teacher of the Year who brought the lawsuit, said he plans to appeal.

“I’m disappointed the judge dismissed the case, but this is far from the end,” he said in a statement. “We’re confident in the merits of our claims and remain optimistic as we move forward on appeal.”

Guidry’s order on Wednesday dismissing the lawsuit echoes a

February decision by the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, which ruled against a group of public school families who had sought to block Louisiana’s law Reversing a lower court that had declared the law unconstitutional, a majority of judges on the federal appeals court said it was too soon to rule on the law’s constitutionality because of “unresolved” questions, such as what the Ten Commandments posters will look like and whether

A BAD LIE

BY MARCO CARTOLANO Staff writer

A man was arrested Thursday and accused of hurling a Molotov cocktail at the Tesla service and leasing center in the Irish Channel last week, according to the New Orleans Police Department. John Michael Hinkhouse, 37, was taken into custody for the April 14 arson attack, according to Orleans Parish jail records. He was arrested Uptown in the 8100 block of Oak Street. Surveillance video released by NOFD showed a man throwing what was described by officials as a Molotov cocktail at the front door of the center at 2801 Tchoupitoulas St. The fire singed the front of the building and left debris outside in the days after Hinkhouse also contributed to a magazine entitled The Molotov Cocktail, NOFD officials confirmed. A story titled “Mr Allen” written by a J. Michael Hinkhouse was published on the magazine’s website. Hinkhouse’s author bio said he was a cook in New Orleans, Louisi-

ana who rides a motorcycle. He is a vegetarian.”

The magazine focuses on flash fiction, a style of quick fictional storytelling. The story under Hinkhouse’s name does not appear to be political or criminal in nature.

Local crime camera nonprofit Project NOLA used its camera system to track Hinkhouse’s movements, eventually tracking him to his Uptown residence in the 1700 block of Bordeaux Street, officials said. NOFD investigators recovered a motorcycle that was believed to have been used during the arson. Last year, several Tesla shops and cars were

BY JOSIE ABUGOV Staff writer

STAFF PHOTO By BRETT DUKE

Michael Brennan hits out of the water’s edge on the 18th hole during the first round of the PGA Zurich Classic golf tournament at TPC Louisiana in Avondale.

FILE PHOTO By JULIA GUILBEAU

Jury convicts man in killing

Manslaughter sentencing set for May 14

BY MICHELLE HUNTER

Staff writer

A Jefferson Parish jury deliberated for about three hours before voting to convict a Kenner man of fatally shooting his brother-in-law following a long-running feud, according to the District Attorney’s Office.

Warren Smith, 35, was found guilty Wednesday of manslaughter in the death of 43-year-old Reginald Scott Jr. Kenner police say Smith shot his brother-in-law on the night of Aug. 4, 2024, in the parking lot of an apartment complex in the 4200 block of Chateau Boulevard where both men lived

The two had been at odds for years, according to authorities. Smith blamed Scott for the 2011 death of his sister, NaTasha Scott.

About two weeks before the shooting, Smith bought a 9 mm pistol. He was waiting for the opportunity to kill Scott, Jefferson Parish Assistant District Attorney Molly Love told jurors. Scott came to Smith’s apartment to confront him the night of the homicide, according to police. Witnesses saw Scott walk across the parking lot to his brother-in-law’s residence just before gunshots rang out.

Scott was then seen running back to his own apartment, followed by Smith, Kenner police said Smith then shot his brother-in-law again before fleeing the scene.

“This wasn’t self-defense,” Love argued. “Warren wasn’t scared of Reginald when he stood over his body, making sure he finished the job, making sure he wasn’t going to mess with him anymore.”

Scott’s son found his injured father on the ground outside the apartment, according to the District Attorney’s Office. Scott was taken to a hospital but died of his injuries.

Police arrested Smith in Baton Rouge several hours later Smith was indicted on a charge of second-degree murder, but jurors found him guilty of manslaughter, a lesser charge. He faces up to 40 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for May 14.

Email Michelle Hunter at mhunter@ theadvocate.com.

JUDGE

Continued from page 1B

teachers will incorporate them into their lessons.

On Wednesday, the 5th Circuit upheld a similar law in Texas. In that case, the court’s majority said there were enough facts to rule on the merits of the law which they said does not restrict students’ religious freedom.

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill said Thursday that the earlier 5th Circuit decision had established that Dier’s lawsuit was “legally meritless.”

“It is unfortunate that some activ-

Missing man found in swamp

Body discovered about a quarter mile from I-10 crash

BY MICHELLE HUNTER Staff writer

Four days after he seemed to just disappear following a crash early Sunday morning on an elevated portion of Interstate 10, the body of a married father of one was found in the swamps below the highway, according to the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office.

McFarland

The body of Jonathan McFarland Sr., 45, of Collinston, was recovered Thursday morning by members of the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office Marine Division. He was found in the marshy area near the I-10 and Interstate 310 split, about a quarter mile from where the crash occurred, according to authorities.

After days spent worrying over his whereabouts, McFarland’s family now has more questions about his final moments

“It just hasn’t sunk in yet,” McFarland’s wife, Betty, 46, said Thursday evening. “The last few nights of not knowing it gets tough at nighttime.”

‘Where is my dad?’

Betty McFarland last spoke with her husband on the night of Saturday, April 18. An engineer with the Union Pacific Railroad working in Livonia, just outside of Baton Rouge, Jonathan McFarland didn’t report for work Sunday afternoon. His co-workers, friends and relatives couldn’t reach him and had no idea where he could be.

“We could not sleep, could

not eat, couldn’t do anything,” his father, Oliver McFarland, 66, of Baskin, said “His son, J.T (Jonathan McFarland II), was wondering, ‘Where is my dad?’”

On Monday and Tuesday, Jonathan McFarland’s youngest sister began calling hospitals around the state, checking for John Doe admissions, Oliver McFarland said.

A Union Pacific official who spoke with Louisiana State Police then learned that Jonathan McFarland’s vehicle had been involved in a crash in St. Charles Parish, according to Betty McFarland.

Broadened search

Jonathan McFarland was driving eastbound on I-10 at 1:30 a.m. Sunday when he was involved in a multicar crash at mile marker 220, just before the entrance ramp to I-310, according to Sgt Jenni Barrette, spokesperson for the St. Charles Sheriff’s Office.

Witnesses on scene reported that McFarland was able to get out of his vehicle and spoke to another motorist before he was seen walking away from the crash, according to authorities. His family traveled to St. Charles Parish on Wednesday to formally file a missingperson report. Investigators checked his hotel room, the residence of a local friend and other locations, but Jonathan McFarland remained missing.

St. Charles deputies found his body when they broadened the search to the waterway under the interstate. Jonathan McFarland’s family isn’t sure what happened. They don’t believe he was trying to flee the scene. His wallet and cellphone were still in his crashed vehicle.

“We were thinking that he may have hit his head on the steering wheel or something and just got disorient-

ed,” Oliver McFarland said. “Maybe he got too close to the side, stumbled and fell over.”

The Jefferson Parish Coroner’s Office will conduct an autopsy to determine a cause of death.

Firstborn, big brother Jonathan McFarland was Oliver and Marilynn McFarland’s firstborn son and the oldest of five siblings. He graduated from Crowville High School in Winnsboro in 1999 and joined the Army National Guard Oliver McFarland vividly recalled his son’s departure for basic training.

“I hugged him, and I just cried. I remember it like it was yesterday I didn’t want him to go,” Oliver McFarland said.

Betty McFarland said she and her future husband orbited each other growing up in the neighboring towns of Baskin and Winnsboro. Once in college at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, he made the first move.

“We fell into friendship, and then we never stopped talking,” said Betty McFarland, who would have celebrated 21 years of marriage in June.

Their 14-year-old son, Jonathan McFarland II, is hanging in there, she said. He has broken down a few times since learning the news of his father’s death Thursday morning.

Jonathan McFarland was jokester who loved to have fun. He was a fantastic father, a loving son, a caring big brother and a devoted Christian, his family said.

By Thursday evening, more than 30 people were gathered inside and outside of his parents’ home, sharing photos and memories of his life.

“It’s a big family,” Oliver McFarland said. “They’re taking it pretty hard because everybody just loved him.”

One arrested after deadly hit-and-run

BY MICHELLE HUNTER Staff writer

Investigators with the Louisiana State Police arrested a woman accused of fleeing the scene of a crash in Elmwood that claimed the life of a pedestrian. Veleka Dabney-Swan, 47, of White Castle, was booked Thursday with hit-and-run resulting in a death. Authorities have not yet re-

ists masquerading as teachers are dead set on thwarting their schools’ compliance with state law,” she said in a statement, adding that she plans to work with the state Department of Education to ensure schools comply

Passed by Louisiana’s Republican-controlled Legislature in 2024, the law requires all public K-12 schools and colleges to display the Ten Commandments in every classroom. Schools must accept donated posters or use donated funds to print them, the law says. In November 2024, a U.S. district court judge blocked the state from enforcing the law, which he said violated students’ First Amendment rights. But in February the 5th Cir-

Continued from page 1B

additional costs and budgetary concerns related to the city’s deficit. As the deadline to complete the grant or ask for an extension loomed, city officials decided they would only be pursuing a $350,000 portion of the grant to establish a long-term solid-waste master plan.

The request for a deadline extension has now been refused for that smaller part of the grant.

Scott Mason IV, an EPA administrator, wrote in an April 14 letter to Moreno that the project failed to meet established milestones and timelines and “several issues have contributed to delays in the overall grant performance.”

“We will nonetheless continue to work on strategies to reduce waste and build a cleaner, more environmentally friendly New Orleans,” Moreno said in a statement announcing the denial.

Saving or spending?

Former employees in the city’s Office of Resilience and Sustainability who had been working to

town of Carrboro against the utility Duke Energy

‘Deep concern’

Several other legislators on the panel echoed Geymann’s thoughts about what they saw as a weak and overly litigious attempt to connect purported climate change impacts with individual companies.

State Rep. Tim Kerner, RLafitte, said he was the mayor of Lafitte, a coastal fishing community, for years and repeatedly had to recover from hurricanes and other storms but wouldn’t have ever attempted to bring such a suit.

The first version of Geymann’s bill had raised concerns that its language would unintentionally relieve industries of liability for other emissions and for accidental releases. An amended version adopted without opposition clarified it only applies to suits tied to climate change damage. The changes also removed specific conditions the original bill had set up to allow a climate change suit to go forward and instead simply barred that kind of suit.

Known as the Louisiana Energy Protection Act, the bill drew widespread support from groups that advocate for the state’s oil and gas, chemical industries, and agricultural interests.

These groups argued allowing such litigation would create new costs for their industries, hamper economic growth and investment, and represent an improper attempt to set national energy policy through the courts.

“These lawsuits will not solve climate change. They will not improve the environment. What they will do is raise costs and make it harder for employ(ers) to invest and create jobs in this state,” said David Cresson, president and chief executive officer of the Louisiana Chemistry Association.

leased the name of the 43-yearold New Orleans victim. They are still working to notify his next of kin, State Police said.

The crash was reported just after 9 p.m. Wednesday on Jefferson Highway near Edwards Avenue. The victim was walking across the westbound lanes of Jefferson Highway wearing dark-colored clothing when he was hit by a 2020 Chevrolet Traverse, officials said. The Chevrolet’s driver did not stop and left the scene of the crash, State Police said The victim was taken to a hospital and later died.

cuit lifted that preliminary injunction, clearing schools to start putting up the posters Guidry had put the teacher’s case on hold until the 5th Circuit ruled on the parents’ lawsuit.

Dier has argued the law makes public school teachers complicit in promoting religion, which he says is a clear breach of the divide between church and state. He also argued that it amounts to government endorsement of Judeo-Christian traditions, which he said sends a harmful message to students of other faiths.

“It undermines a classroom culture built on empathy, respect and belonging,” he said in an interview last month, calling the law “blatantly unconstitutional but also bad pedagogy.”

17

set up the program before layoffs hit the office in January argued that relinquishing the bulk of the grant was a mistake and a missed opportunity to make a dent in the city’s recycling problem. The original grant would have allocated over $4.5 million for 83,000 new residential recycling carts, as well as money for education and

outreach, staff support and the solid waste master plan. Under the city’s current recycling system, residents can call 311 to request a blue recycling bin at no charge.

Chris Lang, one of the former employees, stressed that the grant would not require additional funding from the city He noted that under the current setup, all residents

Investigators identified Dabney-Swan as the driver of the Traverse. She was booked into the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center in Gretna, where she was being held without bail Friday morning.

In his order, Guidry wrote that it won’t be clear whether the law crosses a constitutional line until schools start displaying the Ten Commandments.

The Louisiana Family Forum, a conservative advocacy group that promotes “biblical principles,” has sent posters to most school districts.

In recent weeks, schools across Louisiana have started displaying the donated posters in classrooms.

In last month’s interview, Dier said he would not put up a Ten Commandments poster in his classroom.

A representative for Ben Franklin High School did not immediately respond Thursday when asked if the school has hung up the posters or plans to.

pay a recycling fee regardless of whether they have a recycling cart at their home.

Last fall, Department of Sanitation Director Matt Torri said the program would save the city money because every ton diverted from the landfill means money saved in tipping fees, or the charge for dropping off the waste.

City Council President J.P Morrell, meanwhile, said there could be additional costs that the city would be forced to cover He was concerned the program would lead to more trash, with residents using the new bins as an extra garbage can and complicating the work of the trash haulers.

Sidney Torres IV and Alvin Richard, who own hauling companies IV Waste and Richard’s Disposal, also raised concerns over a lack of processing capacity at the nearby recycling facility Richard said the influx of recycling would bring a “tremendous cost” to the operators that was not taken into account in their current contracts.

Email Josie Abugov at josie. abugov@theadvocate.com.

Speaking for the Sierra Club’s Louisiana-based Delta Chapter, Peter Robins-Brown said the group opposed the bill because it would eliminate suits that could be a “tool” for spurring action on climate change globally

“This would remove one of the tools from the toolbox of trying to fight back against climate change,” said Robins-Brown, who is also executive director of the Louisiana Progress advocacy group. He added that it was causing “deep concern.” Decades of science have established that the burning of fossil fuels and other human-made introductions of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere have led to a 1.98-degree Fahrenheit rise in global temperatures between the mid-19th century and 2020, the latest estimate of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change concluded. That rise, which is sharper than natural changes that occurred for millions of years prior, is contributing to greater weather extremes and is projected to continue to raise sea levels and inundate coastal areas, according to the IPCC, an arm of the United Nations. David J. Mitchell can be reached at dmitchell@ theadvocate.com.

TESLA

Continued from page 1B

Government Efficiency agency responsible for firing or forcing out hundreds of thousands of government workers and eliminating many federal offices — provoked a backlash. A group of Tesla Cybertruck drivers was pummeled with beads during the Krewe of Orpheus’ parade in 2025. Earlier this year, Project NOLA’s surveillance cameras were also used to track a man arrested in connection with another high-profile arson case. Kyle Thomsen, a Bywater man, was arrested in connection with the burning of several cars in the Bywater area in January

STAFF FILE PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER

A cabbage lies on a recycling bin near the Irish Channel St. Patrick’s Day Club Block Party in New Orleans on March

39531. Guestbook Online: www.anewtraditionbegins. com (504)282-0600. Linear BrooksBoydand Donavin D.BoydOwners/FuneralDi‐rectors

Henry, Rondia

Rooney,Anita

Vernon, Diane Vinning, Oneka Henry, Rondia

EJefferson

Flint

and as

instructor

gadoCommunity College. Mrs.Hamiltonwas amem‐ber of PayneMemorial A.M.E.Church in herearly years andthenlater joined HolyGhost Catholic Church where sheservedasanEu‐charistic Minister andSu‐perintendentofSunday School. Mrs. Hamilton was precededindeath by her husband,Frank Hamilton Jr.,her parents, Echo Dancy andRuthMay BrooksDancy,and hersis‐ter,Maude DancyPaul. She leavestocherish aniece, Charmaine Paul,a host of familyand friends, as well asa goddaughter Ruth MoodyAllen. Family and friends areinvited to at‐tendthe Homegoing Cele‐bration at TheBoydFamily Funeral Home,5001 Chef Menteur Hwy.,New Or‐leans,La. 70126 at 10:00 a.m.onTuesday,April 28, 2026. Visitation will begin at9:00a.m.Elder Oscar Charles,officiating. Inter‐mentwillfollowatBiloxi NationalCemetery, 400 Veterans Ave, Biloxi,MS

Rondia Henryentered intorestonMarch 22, 2026 She wasborninNew Or‐leans,La. Thedaughterof Cladman andJoanMarie Henry.She is survived by three children Eugennia, Eugene, RongeneHenry Her GrandkidsZacaria,Za‐kerria, ZakiyahLambert EugeneJr.,Queen Marie Henry,Rongene Jr.and Ty'rielle Henry. Shealso leavesbehindthree sib‐lings Tina,Noel, Evangela Henry anda host of nieces, nephews,close relatives and friends. Relativesand Friends of theFamilyare all invitedtoattend theFu‐neral ServiceonSaturday, April 25, 2026 at 11:00amat Pilgrim Rest BaptistChurch #2, 2200 LouisianaAve NOLA70115.Pastor Michael C. Barlow Sr., offi‐ciating.Visitationwill begin at 10:00am.Inter‐mentwillbeinProvidence MemorialPark. Profes‐sionalArrangementsen‐trusted to Majestic Mortu‐ary Service, Inc. (504)5235872.

Rooney,Anita Faith St.Romain

AnitaFaith St.Romain Rooney,ofRiver Ridge, Louisiana,passedaway surrounded by theloveof her family.A devotedwife, mother, grandmother, sis‐ter,and friend,Anita’s life was defined by herdeep compassionand unwaver‐ing commitmenttocaring for others.Anita is sur‐vived by herlovinghus‐bandof55years,Patrick Pat” Rooney;her sons Christian Rooney (Kim‐berly), andtheir children Connor, Parker,and Ella Grace;and Paul Rooney (Sarah).She is also sur‐vived by herbrothersand sisters,JosephS.St. Ro‐main, Jr., DavidL.St. Ro‐main,Sr. (Susan), Michael

W. St.Romain, Sr., JulieFer‐rara, CynthiaMorvant (Danny),AliciaBordelon (Andre),and DarrellJ.St. Romain(Lesley); hergod‐children, CynthiaSt. Ro‐mainMorvant,AliciaSt. RomainBordelon, Michael St. Romain Jr andDavid St. Romain Jr.; hersistersin-law, AngieSt. Romain and Mary LeeRooney;and manynieces, nephews, and dear friends. Shewas precededindeath by her parents,Sharkey andAn‐toinette St.Romain, and her brother, Mark St.Ro‐main(Angie).Anita wasa proud graduate of Riverdale High School, Class of 1969, where she formedlasting friendships thatshe continuedtocher‐ish throughregular gather‐ingsoverthe years. Anita devoted 25 yearstoher workasa surgical techni‐cianatEastJefferson Gen‐eralHospital. Anatural leaderamong thesurgical support staff, shegener‐ously mentored newand aspiringsurgicaltechs,al‐wayswilling to shareher knowledge andencourage‐ment. Herreliability,ex‐ceptional organization,and dedicationtoher work earnedher thedeep re‐spect of hercolleagues, manyofwhombecame dearfriends beyond the workplace.Anita was deeply involved in the AmericanBusiness Women’s Associationfor manyyears,where she servedasa chapterpresi‐dentand cultivated cher‐ished relationships through herleadershipand service.Anita placed great value on friendship and connection. Sheformed deep andlasting bonds throughouther life and found joyingathering with others. Shehad atrueap‐preciationfor NewOrleans restaurants andcuisine often usingthose occa‐sions to bringpeopleto‐gether, especially with her beloved Friday Lunch Group.Her friendsde‐scribeher as acaretaker: generous, dependable,and alwayswilling to help, serving as atrusted advo‐cateand resource when‐evershe wasneeded Above all, Anitawas the heart of herfamily. After the loss of hermotherat the young ageof26, with siblingsasyoung as three, she naturallysteppedinto the role of caregiverand matriarch.Withstrength and grace, shehelped guide andsupport her brothersand sisterswhile raising herown children, alwaysputting others be‐foreherself.Anita hada giftfor bringing people to‐gether. Shewas oftenthe firsttostepintohelpplan and host weddings, bridal showers,babyshowers, and countless gatherings for herfamilyand friends. Her home andher heart werealwaysopen, andshe found joyinmakingothers feel loved, celebrated,and cared for. Sheremained the matriarchofher family throughouther life,a steadysourceofguidance, care, andstrength. Shewill berememberedfor her selflessness, herwarmth, and theway shemade everyonefeel like family. Her legacy livesoninthe manylives shetouched and theloveshe so gener‐ously gave.Visitationwill beheldMonday, May4th at 10amatGardenofMem‐

ories, followed by mass at noon.Interment will follow atGardenofMemoriesat 1pm

Vernon, Diane

Diane Vernon, age 77 was born on August 11, 1948 in Kentwood, LA departed this earthlyhome on Friday, April 3, 2026. She attended MolerBeauty Collegeand was theowner of CrystalPalace Bar, Special OccasionBeauty Shopknown as LadyDee. Diane was thebeloved and loving mother of Dionne Vernon and mother-in-law of Talmadge Mitchell,Jr. Devoted sister of Jeffery Lewis, Gary, Fred,Kevin, Osborne,Jr.,Esther, Kimberly and Andrea. She wasalso survivedby4 grandchildren, 17 greatgrandchildrenand ahost of nieces, nephews, cousins,family and friends. She waspreceded in death by her parents Osborn Vernon, Sr. and LogiaMack Lewis; and her siblingsPatricia, Connie Lewis, and Carolyn Mack. Relatives and friendsof thefamily are invitedtoattend theCelebrationofLife Service on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at St.Thomas Missionary Baptist Church, 2926 JacksonAvenue, New Orleans, LA 70125 at 10:00 a.m. Visitation from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. Private Burial.You may signthe

guest book on www.gertru degeddeswillis.com. Gertrude Geddes Willis Funeral Home, Inc.,in charge (504) 522-2525.

Vinning,Oneka Marie

Oneka Marie Vinning, age 52 was born on December 29, 1973 in New Orleans, LA to the Late Merlin Boyd and the Late Sarah LeeVinning. She departedthis earthly life on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. Wife of theLate Robert Lee Desdunes. Mother of Danyell Vinning (Jamaal Crosier).Sisterof MadonnaVinning andthe Late ClevelandVinning Also survivedby2 grandchildrenand ahostofother relativesand friends. Relativesand friends of thefamilyare invited to at-

tend theCelebrationofLife Service on Saturday, April 25, 2026 at Gertrude Geddes Willis Funeral Home, 2120 Jackson Avenue, NewOrleans,LA 70113 at 12:30 p.m. Visitation from 11:30 a.m. until12:30 p.m. Private Burial.You may sign the guest book on www.gertru degeddeswillis.com. Gertrude Geddes Willis Funeral Home, Inc.,in charge (504) 522-2525.

Hamilton, Lorraine

BRIEFS

FROM WIRE REPORTS

Intel has best day since 1987 after profit report

NEW YORK A surge for Intel following a blowout profit report led the U.S stock market to records Friday while oil prices kept yo-yoing in the wait for what’s next with the Iran war Intel led the way and roared past its 2000 peak during the dot-com boom to an all-time high. It soared 23.6% for its best day since 1987 after reporting much stronger results for the first three months of the year than analysts expected. CEO Lip-Bu Tan said the next wave of artificial-intelligence technology is increasing the need for Intel’s chips and products, and the company’s forecast for profit in the spring topped analysts’ estimates.

Such strong profit reports have helped Wall Street rally to records, and the S&P 500 has leaped nearly 13% in a little under a month. Hopes have also built in financial markets that the United States and Iran can find a way to avoid a worstcase scenario for the global economy because of their war Procter & Gamble rose 2.5% after reporting stronger profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected. CEO Shailesh Jejurikar said it saw broad-based growth across regions and products, which include Bounty paper towels and Tide detergent. That helped offset a drop of 25.5% for Charter Communications, whose profit for the latest quarter came in weaker than analysts expected. It lost 120,000 internet customers during the three months, more than some analysts expected

Norfolk Southern’s profit falls 27%

Norfolk Southern railroad’s first-quarter profit fell 27% because it didn’t collect big insurance payments related to the East Palestine Ohio, derailment and its planned merger with Union Pacific added to its costs. The Atlanta-based railroad said Friday that it earned $547 million or $2.43 per share. That’s down from $750 million, or $3.31 per share, a year ago. The disastrous derailment in the small town on the OhioPennsylvania border has generally boosted earnings in recent quarters as the railroad collected insurance payments, but that wasn’t the case this time, so it combined with planning costs related to the merger, earnings per share were reduced by 22 cents. Last year’s results were also helped by some land sales.

CEO Mark George said the railroad also dealt with the uncertain economy that reduced the shipments it delivered by 1%, along with severe weather and rapidly rising fuel costs

The railroad’s revenue was relatively flat at just under $3 billion. But its expenses jumped 15% when insurance payments from the derailment added $185 million to Norfolk Southern’s bottom line.

Stellantis deploying gun-sniffing K-9 units

Stellantis NV is deploying firearm-sniffing dogs at several auto plants, a move that’s raised concerns at one major factory over potentially creating a “prisonlike” atmosphere that could impact worker morale. The K-9 units have already been working without issue for months at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Michigan, where the Ram 1500 pickup is made a local union leader confirmed. They are next headed to the Detroit Assembly Complex’s Mack plant, where the Jeep Grand Cherokee is built, according to a company statement.

The dogs and their handlers are there to “support workplace safety and employee wellbeing,” the Stellantis statement said, and were picked for their ability to work comfortably in a manufacturing environment.

Other major Stellantis plants are expecting to soon have K-9 units patrolling entrances, factory floors and parking lots — a move that several workers and United Auto Workers officials described as unusual.

Panama Canal reroute costing $4M

Businesses dodging ongoing chaos in Strait of Hormuz

BY ALMA SOLÍS and MEGAN JANETSKY Associated Press

PANAMA CITY Businesses have doled out as much as $4 million for last-minute plans to move boats through the Panama Canal in recent weeks, the Panama Canal Authority says, as the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz generates a seismic shift in global trade flows. While passage through the canal usually comes at a flat rate via reservations, companies without one

can cross by paying an additional fee in an auction for slots, which are awarded to the highest bidder, rather than waiting for days off the coast of Panama City

The demand for slots skyrocketed and the price ballooned in recent weeks as Iran and the United States have bottlenecked the strait. Ships have increasingly traveled through the Panama Canal as shipments are rerouted and buyers purchase from other countries to avoid commerce through now-treacherous Middle Eastern waterway

“With all the bombings, the missiles, the drones companies are saying it’s safer and less expensive to cross through the Panama Canal,” said Rodrigo Noriega, a lawyer and analyst in Panama City. “All of this

is affecting global supply chains.”

Meanwhile, Panama’s government is “maximizing what it can earn from the Panama Canal,” Noriega said.

The average price to cross through the canal ranges between $300,000 and $400,000 depending on the vessel. Previously, to get an earlier crossing, businesses would pay an additional $250,000 to $300,000.

In recent weeks, the average additional cost has jumped to around $425,000.

Ricaurte Vásquez, the canal’s administrator, said one company that he would not name paid an extra $4 million when its fuel vessel had to change its destination because of ongoing geopolitical tensions.

“It was a ship carrying fuel to Eu-

rope and they redirected it to Singapore, and it needed to get there because Singapore is running out of fuel,” he said.

Other oil companies paid an excess of $3 million in addition to the crossing fee to accelerate their passage in the face of soaring oil prices

The extra fees are becoming so high not because ships are piling up at the canal, but rather because of last-minute shifts and greater urgency for vessels to pass through in the wake of broader trade chaos, Vásquez said. He emphasized that these costs were temporarily being shouldered by companies based on their level of urgency

“They decide how high to go on the price,” Vásquez said.

Chinese carmakers flaunt tech

Top automakers showcase latest models in Beijing

BY HAN GUAN NG and CHAN HO-HIM Associated Press

BEIJING China’s top automakers are show-

casing their latest models and technologies from intelligent driving to ultrafast charging in Beijing as they compete with global rivals in overseas markets

Analysts say the biennial auto show in China’s capital, which opened to media on Friday, shows how its auto industry is setting the global pace for cutting-edge technologies in areas such as electric vehicles and batteries, eclipsing many foreign brands that used to dominate the global market.

More than 1,450 vehicles are on display at this year’s show, including 181 global debuts.

The show runs until May 3.

Intelligent driving, fast charging

Chinese EV maker XPeng is showing off its latest GX model, a six-seater SUV with a third row seats that can lie completely flat, among other new displays and technologies.

Huge crowds gathered for a presentation by its founder and CEO He Xiaopeng, who described more high-tech aspects of the vehicle.

“When you’re driving on the highway you fall asleep, or if you feel unwell and can no longer control the vehicle, the system can detect the situation, pull over automatically and alert emergency services,” He said “Many people who have tried it say it’s amazing.”

Chinese EV maker BYD showcased its new generation of the fast charging “blade” EV battery, first unveiled last month, which can achieve a near full charge in nine minutes, at the auto show, as well as demonstrated charging under the low temperature of minus 30 degree Celsius. Also showcased by Yijing, a EV joint venture between Chinese carmaker Dongfeng Motor Corp. and technology giant Huawei, was the X9, their flagship six-seat SUV

According to Chairman Wang Junjun, the new model will features some of the latest auto technology, including a next-generation Qiankun intelligent driving system and a new HarmonyOS cockpit and operating system developed by Huawei.

Ahead of the show, Chinese battery giant CATL unveiled on Tuesday a new version of its “Shenxing” battery, which can be charged from 10% to 98% in only about six-and-a-half minutes.

China’s ‘aggressive’ advancements

The auto show showcases the “speed and aggressiveness of advancement” among Chinese automakers, said Tu Le, managing director of consultancy Sino Auto Insights. “It

just reinforces that the Chinese — whether in EVs, batteries, intelligent driving — are setting the pace for all these important sectors,” he said.

“China has become one of the fastestmoving markets for deploying and iterating new vehicle technologies, giving consumers early access to some of the most advanced features,” said Chris Liu, a senior analyst at research and advisory group Omdia China has become the world’s biggest car exporter, benefiting from its ability to reap cost advantages from its huge scale as well as significant government subsidies and support that helped automakers to rapidly scale up and more quickly rolling out new models and technologies than their foreign competitors.

But Chinese automakers has been facing immense pressure from ferocious price wars over the past months. This year, the government has scaled back subsidies encouraging drivers to switch to EVs and plug-in hybrids, weighing on domestic demand.

Sales of passenger cars in China dropped 23% in the January-March quarter from a year earlier to around 4 million vehicles, according to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers. But exports jumped 63% to almost 2 million vehicles as Chinese cars made inroads in regions like Europe, Southeast Asia and Latin America.

Omdia forecasts China’s passenger vehicle exports will grow by around 14% year-onyear in 2026. The hypercompetitive Chinese market have pulled vehicle prices down by a fifth

over the past two years, according to a report this week by consultancy AlixPartners. Few new tech expected to be exported

Few of the new technologies showcased at the auto show may be exported to overseas markets in the short term due to regulatory and safety challenges, Liu said. But they signal “capabilities that can be refined and adapted for global markets over time.”

Even as foreign automakers have been losing market share in recent years in China, some are staging a comeback, with Volkswagen Group announcing on Tuesday plans for installing “agentic” AI into its vehicles for China. It also unveiled new EV models for the Chinese market, including the new UNYX 09 electric sedan co-developed with XPeng.

While the foreign car brands may try to “stabilize” their market share in China, “gaining back a significant market share they had before is, to my perspective, not realistic,” said Andreas Radics, managing director at Berylls by AlixPartners specialized in the automotive industry

Meanwhile, given the growing demand and often better profitability in overseas markets, Chinese automakers have been shifting from exporting cars from China to building more factories overseas, including in Hungary and Turkey, to increase supplies abroad and avert trade friction.

Chinese carmakers are likely to almost triple their overseas production by 2030 to 3.4 million vehicles from 1.2 million last year, according to AlixPartners estimates.

DeepSeek rolls out anticipated update of its AI model

Chinese startup shook up world markets last year

BY CHAN HO-HIM and MATT O’BRIEN Associated Press

HONG KONG — DeepSeek, the Chinese artificial intelligence startup that shook world markets last year, launched preview versions of its latest major update Friday as the AI rivalry between China and the U.S. heats up.

DeepSeek’s V4 has been keenly anticipated by users looking to test how it compares to U.S. competitors like OpenAI’s ChatGPT Anthropic’s Claude and Google’s

Gemini. Anthropic and OpenAI have accused DeepSeek of unfairly building its technology off their own.

Some industry analysts had expected the new model to arrive more than two months earlier at the start of the Lunar New Year

DeepSeek says the new V4 open-source models, which include “pro” and “flash” versions, have big improvements in knowledge, reasoning and in their “agentic” capabilities — the ability to perform complex tasks and workflows autonomously

Another big change is they are supported in part by computer chips made by Chinese tech giant Huawei, reducing DeepSeek’s reliance on U.S. chipmakers like

Nvidia. V4 is a successor to V3, an AI model that DeepSeek released in late 2024. But it was DeepSeek’s specialized “reasoning” AI model, called R1, that took markets by surprise with its release in January 2025. DeepSeek claimed it was more cost-effective than OpenAI’s similar model and it became a symbol of how China was catching up with the U.S. in technological advancements.

DeepSeek said the “V4 Pro Max” version has “superior performance” in terms of standard reasoning benchmarks relative to OpenAI’s GPT-5.2 model and Google’s Gemini 3.0-Pro. It falls “marginally” short of GPT-5.4 and Gemini 3.1-Pro, it said. Deep-

Seek’s release came hours after OpenAI released its new GPT-5.5 model on Thursday In terms of “agentic” capabilities, the Chinese company said the V4 “pro” version could outperform Claude’s Sonnet 4.5 and approaches the level of Claude’s Opus 4.5 model based on its own evaluation.

The “flash” version of V4 performs on a par with the “pro” version on simple agent tasks and has reasoning capabilities closely approaching it, DeepSeek said.

“Based on the benchmark results, it does appear DeepSeek V4 is going to be very competitive against its U.S. rivals,” said Lian Jye Su, chief analyst at the technology research and advisory group Omdia.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By NG HAN GUAN

He Xiaopeng, Chairman and CEO of XPENG speaks at the Auto China 2026 in Beijing on Friday

ANOTHERVIEW

Trumpneeds to be careful in feud with pope

Ron Faucheux

The pope and the president walk into abar No,thisisn’tthe start of ajoke. It’s noteven about who’s right or wrong on the warinIran.It’sabout how President DonaldTrump’srecent attacks on Pope LeoXIV havehurt the president’sstanding with the American people. Echoing popes throughout history, Leo hasurged theuse of diplomacy to keepaninternationalconflict fromspiralinginto awiderwar.“Work forpeace” and rejectthe “madness of war,” he said Trump took the pope’sremarks personally In response, he wrote,“Pope Leo is WEAK on Crime, and terrible for Foreign Policy,” criticizing Leoas if he were an electionopponent. Using campaign-style rhetoric,healso wentafter the pope for being “tooliberal.” The drama escalated when Trump posted an image of himselfasaChrist-like figure amove that 71% of Americans disliked, according to the latest Economist/YouGov poll.

Then Vice President JD Vancegot into theact.At a Turning Point USA event in Georgia,hesaid he“kind of” likes itwhen the pope comments on politicalissues such as immigration, abortion, war and peace. Thenhesternly instructed thepope to “be careful whenhetalksabout matters of theology.” Huh?

Perhaps Vance shouldbemore carefulwhen he talks aboutthese matters, especially with this pope.Leo has taught canonlaw,served as an ecclesiastical court judge and led the worldwide Augustinianorder.Wouldn’tyou assume thepopeisalreadypretty well versedontheology, including St. Augustine’stheory ofa“just war”?

PerhapsTrump should explain to the Americanpeople why the conflict with Iran meets the standards of ajust war.Ifhedid, maybe his poll numbers would go up.

Right or wrong, most Americans are unhappy with the war:only31% approveofit, andjust 34% support thepresident’shandling of it.Bya two-to-one margin, U.S. adults are more likely to approve the pope’s statements than to disapprove Trump’sfavorable rating among U.S. votersis43%;Pope Leo’sratingis61%.

In 2024, Trump beat Kamala Harrisbya 20-pointmargin among Catholicvoters, accordingtoexitpolling. That was crucialtohis election,and Catholic voters willbecrucial in the next one.

But let’sbeclear: This doesnot mean that Catholicsnecessarily agreewith all the pope’s public statements, nor does it mean that non-Catholics disagree with them. It also doesn’tmean that aU.S. president should seek the pope’s approval before he pursues policygoals; John Kennedy made that clear when he became the firstCatholic president Still, itdoes apresident no goodwhendisagreementwith asitting pope sinks into apolitical mud fight.Historically presidents have understoodthis.

In 1848, President JamesK.Polkasked Congresstoestablish diplomatic relations with the PapalStates while Pius IX was pope. WoodrowWilson was thefirst president to meetapope, Benedict XV.Franklin Rooseveltappointeda personal envoy to PiusXII. Dwight Eisenhower met John XXIII,helping normalize face-to-face engagement.Kennedymet both John XXIII and Paul VI and was careful not to appear subservient to either.Lyndon Johnson and Paul VI were friendly but often disagreed overpeace effortsinVietnam. Richard Nixon was the third president to meetPaul VI, and GeraldFord the fourth.

John Paul II was the first pope to visit the White House, doing so during Jimmy Carter’spresidency.RonaldReagan’srelationship with John Paul IIisoftenconsidered the most consequential; both workedtolimit Soviet powerand support Poland’s freedom.

Recent Democratic presidents —Bill Clinton, Barack Obama and Joe Biden, the second Catholic president —had cordial relations with reigning popes,though theyhad serious differences over abortionand family issues. GeorgeW Bush and Benedict XVI disagreed overthe IraqWar Trump was the firstmodernpresident to publicly feud with apope. He didn’thesitate to attack Francis, especially on immigration and climate issues.Trump calledthe pope’s views “disgraceful” and accusedhim of being a“pawn” of theMexican government.

Trump’ssupporters are correct to saythe president has a right to defend his policies. But howhedoes it alsomatters. Startinganunnecessary fight withthe pope couldweaken public support forhis agenda and that could undermine his party’schances in November’selections. That’swhy,for Trump and his allies, this matterisnojoke.

Ron Faucheux is anonpartisan politicalanalyst, pollster and writer based in Louisiana

Don’t shield audience from Trump’scrude

On your April6frontpage, you headlined “Trump(‘s) ...fiery new threat againstIran”but failed to describe what was saidbyPresident Donald Trump that warranted thedescription of “fiery.”

Your incompletereport was surprising, as Ialways expect the complete story from this newspaper.Inthis instance, your omission failed to notify your readers of theshocking language used by the president,revealing his unsuitabilityfor his position again.

Not quoting Trump’s“fiery” language may have been an attempt to downplay his coarse responses in critical situations, which were

language

widely reproduced. Or perhaps it was an attempt to shield your readers from his vulgarity? If the latter,permit me to note thatalmost all television andmost print media have usedverbatim the vulgar words utteredbyTrump (theF-wordand others) that, unfortunately,are usedrepeatedly in the public domain.

Whatever your intention, your incomplete descriptionhas deprived your readers again of more evidence of Trump’sinability to deal carefully,coolly andcapably with thecrises of ourworld.

ELLEN AND STAN KESSLER Metairie

3-year degree astepinthe wrongdirection

Iread your March 29 article “Higher ed leaders OK three-year bachelor’s degree” by reducing Louisiana colleges’long-existing four-year bachelor’sdegree programs to three years.

On that very same day,the New York Times reported that “The economics of degrees have changed.” Andthat “too many graduatefrom colleges with uselessdegrees.”

Several days later,onApril 2, you reported that “UNO to see some academic changes” by eliminating andreducing aselected number of courses, programs and even whole

departments. While Louisiana ranks among thebottom three states (along with Mississippi and West Virginia)in higher education, ourso-called “education leaders” persist in “reforms” that, over the intermediate and long term, result in lowering our ranking evenmore.

The bestinterpretation is that while Louisiana hasmade progress in some academic areas, it continues to struggle with overall proficiency rates and long-term student outcomes.

PHILIP MONTELEPRE NewOrleans

Anothergreat year to be part of Crescent City Classic

Iamwriting to thank all those involved with organizing the Crescent City Classic for theflawless execution of the 48th event on April 4. As a‘Yattransplant to theRed Stick who ran in thefirst CCC, Istill come back every year for this fun run from Champions Square by Caesars Superdomethrough downtown New Orleansand theFrench Market area, and then proceeding

down Esplanade Avenue with an end at the beautiful City Park. This year,itwas great to run as acharityrunner for “Ainsley’sAngels” team and to see friends and members of other teams that I’ve run with in the past, like the “New OrleansMusician’s Clinic Team” and “Team Steve Gleason.”

Geaux CCC!

KEITH HORCASITAS Baton Rouge

Cassidy’sTV messagefalls flat

Sen. Bill Cassidy’sTVadurges us to “call Dr.Cassidy and thank him”for his work with President Donald Trumpingetting afentanyl law passed. Ifind the message to be arrogant. We need to call Cassidy and thank him fordoing his job? Doeshethank his refuse collector fortaking out his trash? Does he thank the folks cooking his meals at restaurants? We thank people when they do an exceptional job, not simply when they’re doing the minimum.Cassidy,inmyopinion, hasn’tdone anything exceptional since he becameasenator.That said, I’ll have to hold my nose and vote forhim in November simply because he’s“the devil Iknow.” What amess.

JOHN SINGLETON

Baton Rouge

Don’tignorebillon toxicpollutants

Senate Bill 356, currently before the Louisiana Legislature, is an important bill to pass. The bill, which should be heard in the Senate Environmental Quality committee, requires certain industrial facilities to monitor toxic pollutants. This well-written bill will save the industry and the state significant money and will improve the health of Louisianans.

MARION FREISTADT NewOrleans

LSUshouldremembercoaches are also supposed to be role models

Are we that desperate in Louisiana? Icould hardly believe my eyes when Isaw that LSU rehired Will Wade as its new basketball coach. According to the newspaper,he wasfound guilty of multiple serious NCAA violations, including improper payments and unethical conduct. He also made payments to the fiancee of aplayer and failed to produce requested documents. He received a10gamesuspension to start the 2023-24 season. All of this information was published. Sadly,this is the person LSU hired not only to lead its basketball team,but to be arole model to the young men and women that he will come in contact with as acoach. With the thousands of good men and womenwilling to coach at LSU, how could they settle foranything less?

KIMMINOR NewOrleans

TOP‘DOGS

BY LUKE JOHNSON Staff writer

After pluggingone of their biggest roster holes on Day 1, the prevailing theorywas thatthe NewOrleans Saints would use their Day 2picks to shore up their defensive edge and nickel positions.

New Orleans went in adifferent direction, addressing sneakier needs anddouble-dippingfromthe University of Georgia with defensive tackle Christen Miller and tight end Oscar Delp “Wefelt greatabout both of these guys,” Saintscoach Kellen Moore said.

New Orleans felt great about Miller in spite of ahiccup in their private workout with him: Defensive line coach Bo Williams had atravel issue becauseofairport security,which made theSaints pivot and send linebackerscoach PeterSirmon in his place.Sirmon drovefrom another nearby assignment.

The 6-foot-4, 321-pound Millerexcelled as arun defender for the Georgia’sdefense,anchoring aunit that finished

the 2025 season as the nation’sNo. 4run defense. He has astout frame and abig reach, withan80-inchwingspan And the Georgianativeisalso, apparently,persuasive. After theSaints selected him, he quickly pivoted to changing his family’slong-held rooting interests.

“Theygotta convert,”Millersaid of his family,who supported the division rival Falcons. “They aredirty birds fans, but they ain’tdirty birds no more.”

Originallya four-starrecruit,Miller spenthis entire college career at Georgia —opting to staywith the Bulldogs after redshirting as atrue freshman. He cracked thestartinglineup in his redshirt freshman season, then started 24 of his final 26 games.

He considered enteringthe NFL draft after his redshirt sophomore season, but he returned to Georgia and solidified himself as aprospect,earning first-team AllSoutheastern Conference honors as asenior

“It was the best decision Iever made,” Miller said. “I could’ve left for the NFL last year,but that was the ä See PICKS, page 5C

Saints couldmakeplayfor Giants defender

BY MATTHEWPARAS Staff writer

Twoyears ago, the New Orleans Saints took asecond chance on a once-coveted pass rusher whohadn’t quite lived up to theenormous expectations he faced when entering theNFL. But that move proved to be wise and largely has worked out. Could history repeat itself?

On Day 2ofthe NFLdraft, the Saints notably did not select an edge rusher with either the 42nd overall pick (Georgia defensive tackle Christen Miller)orthe 73rd pick (Georgia tight end Oscar Delp) —despitethe position appearingtobea huge need. But there might be agood reason why.Roughly an hourbefore the second round began, NFL insiderJordan Schultz reported the Saints had shown “strong interest” in trading for New York Giants defensiveend Kayvon Thibodeaux

If adeal develops, the Saints could be looking to replicate the success

they had with Chase Young —the former No. 2overall pick in 2020 who has experienced acareer resurgence with theblack and gold.

Before signing with the Saints in 2024, Young’scareer was seen as a slight disappointment. Though he won Defensive Rookie of the Year with Washington, his next fewyears were derailed by injuries and underwhelming sack totals.

In New Orleans,Young has delivered. After staying healthy in his first season, Young followed that up with 10 sacksin12games in 2025. Thibodeaux, the fifth overall pick in 2022, maybenefit from asimilar changeinscenery.

Last season,Thibodeauxrecorded only 21/2 sacksin10games —the second straight season his production had been affected by injuries. The25-year-old is entering the final year ofhis rookie contract.Earlier this month, new Giants coach John

ä See TRADING, page 5C

Smalley, Springer maintain Zurich edge

Nine teamslurkwithin twoshots of lead heading into thirdround

BY JEFF DUNCAN Staff writer

So far, so good forAlexSmalley and Hayden Springer

ä Zurich Classic NOON SATURDAy,GOLF CHANNEL

Their lead is precarious, but they’re still on topofthe ZurichClassic after two rounds of competition. Thepairof29-year-old Americans entered Friday’scompetition with a one-stroke lead andmanaged to maintain it despite aroller-coaster roundof70 during hot, blustery playingconditions at theTPC of Louisiana.

“I think we scrambled pretty well and hung in there,” Springer said after the team’s five-birdie, three-bogeyround left his team at 16 under Smalleyand Springer can’taffordtorest on their laurels. Nine teamslurk within two shots of the lead, including the imposing team of Alex and Matt Fitzpatrick at 15 under

“I don’tthink we should deviate from our game plan from Thursday,because it seemed like it worked pretty well,” said Smalley, who, like Springer, is looking for his first win on the PGA Tour.“Just try to get as many balls in playoff the teeaswecan, get as manybirdie looks as we can and just kind of go from there.”

ä See ZURICH, page 4C

BY REED DARCEY Staff writer

LSU’sfirst spring practices under coach Lane Kiffinare almost over The Tigers scheduled15practices from March 24 through Saturday,and they’ve been using that time to turn amishmash group of returners, freshmen and transfers into one cohesive unit. After one of the earliersessions, Kiffinlikened his offense to an “expansion team.”

There’slots of new faces —and not much timetoget them all on the samepage. Who from thegrouphas stood out from the rest?

Here’sanalphabetical listof10players whohave caught oureye duringspring practices so far.

S• TY BENEFIELD Benefield was one of the early standouts, and he didn’teven have to make any plays in teamdrills. He just looksthe part. TheBoise State transfer led Mountain West safeties in tackles forloss (8.5) last season, and it’snot hard to seewhy.He’slong, tall andrangy LSU is lining him up at free

Saints beef up defense, roundout

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By PHELANM.EBENHACK

Georgia defensive lineman Christen Miller heads to the sideline during agameagainst FloridaonNov.2,2024, in Jacksonville, Fla. Miller was selected by theSaints in the second round of the NFLdraft on Friday.

STAFF PHOTO By ENAN CHEDIAK Hayden Springer putts on the ninth hole during the Zurich Classic on Friday at TPC Louisiana in Avondale.

AP FILEPHOTO By BRAD PENNER Newyork Giants linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux takes the field beforeagame against the San Francisco 49ers on Nov. 2inEast Rutherford, N.J

COLLEGE BASEBALL

11 a.m. Wake Forest at GeorgiaTechACCN

1p.m.Georgia at Ole MissSECN

4p.m. Texas A&M at Florida SECN

6p.m. Clemson at Louisville ACCN

6:30 p.m. LSUatMississippi St. ESPN2

7p.m.

11

11 a.m. Clemson at DukeESPN2 11 a.m. Missouri at Arkansas SECN

1p.m. Penn St. at Illinois BTN

1:30 p.m. Georgia at Oklahoma ESPN2

2p.m. North Carolina at Virginia Tech ACCN

4p.m. Florida St. at GeorgiaTech ACCN

4p.m. TexasTech at Arizona St. ESPN2

5p.m. UCLA at Washington BTN GOLF

noon PGATour:Zurich ClassicGOLF

noon LPGA Tour:Memorial Park NBC

2p.m. PGATour:Zurich ClassicCBS

2p.m. PGATour:Mitsubishi Classic CNBC

11 p.m.DPWorld Tour:Volvo China GOLF HORSE RACING

noon America’s Dayatthe Races FS2

5p.m. America’sDay at the Races FS1 MLB

2p.m. Cleveland at Toronto FS1

5p.m. San Diegovs.Arizona MLBN NBA

noon DetroitatOrlando NBCSN

2:30 p.m. Oklahoma City at Phoenix NBC

5p.m. Newyork at Atlanta NBC 7:30 p.m. Denver at Minnesota ABC

11 a.m.

NFL

NFLDraft: Rounds 4-7 ABC, ESPN NHL

2p.m.CarolinaatOttawa TBS

4:30 p.m.DallasatMinnesota TBS

7p.m.Pittsburgh at Philadelphia TBS

MEN’S SOCCER

9a.m.Crystal Palace at Liverpool NBCSN

9a.m.Tottenham at Wolverhampton USA

11:30 a.m.NewcastleatArsenal USA

3:30 p.m.LAFCatMinnesota United FOX

6p.m.Rhode Island at HartfordCBSSN

8p.m.ClubLeónFCatToluca CBSSN

10 p.m.Atlas at Club América CBSSN

WOMEN’S SOCCER

11:10 a.m.Barcelona at Bayern Munich CBSSN

noon BayFCatGotham FC CBS

5:30 p.m.Boston at ChicagoION

7:45 p.m.San DiegoatDenverION UFL

6p.m.St. Louis at Orlando ESPN

LSUsuffers heartbreakingloss

BY KOKI RILEY Staff writer

STARKVILLE, Miss. It started with another setback. With less than an hour before first pitchFriday against Mississippi State, LSU aceCasan Evans was scratched from his start. Losing the sophomore righthander was the last thing LSU baseball needed. It already had lost junior right-handerCooper Moore for the season, andjunior right fielder Jake Brown waslikely done for the year as well.

Combined withasix-gamelosing streak in SEC play entering the day,itfelt like coach Jay Johnson’steam couldn’tcatch abreak LSU nearly broke the trendFriday at Dudy Noble Field, leading 7-3 after 31/2 innings and 8-7 entering the ninth, but its defense couldn’tseal the deal. Mississippi State ultimately won 10-8 on a walk-off, two-run homerun in the11th inning from junior Kevin Milewski off of LSU hurler Zac Cowan, but it was amistake in the ninth inning that kept the game alive for the Bulldogs. Mississippi State was down to its last strike in the ninth, butshortstop Ryder Woodson shot asingle into left field that tied the game 8-8 and sent it to extra innings. But Woodson wouldn’thave gotten to theplate if it weren’tfor junior shortstop Steven Milam missing the bag at second base on apotential double play ball withnobody out. The mistake allowed the Bulldogs to have arunner at second base with one out. The nextbatter was retired on apop-up, but Woodsonthen made LSU pay

Despite Milam’smistake, LSU had achance to retake the lead in the 10th inning, putting runners on the corners with one out and loading the bases with twoouts. Butleft fielder James Nunnallee made adiving catch with twoouts that kept the score tied after sophomore Cade Arrambide struck out looking for the second out LSU retook the lead in theninth thanks to afreshman. William Patrick, aright fielder making

TIGERS

Continued from page1C

the box at times next season. Kiffin seemsopentomovinghis top three safeties around the field.

LG •BOBORDELON

Bordelon is afifth-year senior who’sstarted only one game, yet he’sspent all of spring as the firstteam left guard. The Tigershaven’t put anyone else at that spot so far, which means he’ll begin preseason camp as thefavorite to land that starting job. It’sasurprise. Last year,Bordelonwas atackle who saw the field only when LSU used jumbo sets. Kiffin and his staff seem to think he can do more

QB •LANDEN CLARK Clark, atransferquarterback from Division II Elon, is Kiffin’sdevelopmental project. In the spring, he’straded first-team reps with Southern Cal transfer Husan Longstreet while starter SamLeavitt (foot) is sidelined. Those reps have been valuable for the redshirt sophomore, who’smade steady progress since the Tigers opened practice. He canscramble, andhe’sflashed some downfield accuracy,too.

RT •WESTON DAVIS

Davis started at right tackle for LSU last season, but he had arough year.Only three SEC offensive linemen allowed more pressures than he did (33), according to Pro Football Focus. Davis decided to

LSU DH OmarSerna stands in to hit against NorthwesternState on April 14 at Alex Box Stadium. Serna hita home runtogoalong withthree hits Friday,but Mississippi State beat LSU 10-8 in extra innings.

his second collegiate start, shot atwo-out, go-ahead single in the ninth inning that gave LSU an 8-7 advantage. Atwo-outsingle from freshman MasonBraun and a walkput two runners on base for Patrick. That’swhen the Monroe native came throughwitha line drive into right field. After thegame, Johnson said Evanswas experiencing arm discomfort before thegame.

“I’m not going to messwith that,”Johnson said, “obviously with aprospectlikethat, somebody that is as important to our team as heis.”

Without Evans, LSU turned to redshirt juniorright-hander Gavin Guidry to start, but he couldn’tescape the third inning.

He gave up three earned runs, including two homers, which kept Mississippi State withinstriking distance

The Tigers used three different pitchers torecord three total outs after lifting Guidry.LSU eventually turned to redshirt sophomore right-hander Deven Sheerin with two runners on base and two outs in the fourth inning.Heallowed an inherited runner to score but escaped the sticky situation prior to allowing asolo homer in the fifth. LSU still led 7-5 by the time the sixthrolled around, but Sheerin couldn’thold onto the lead. Awalk, an errant throw by junior third baseman TrentCaraway andan intentionalwalkloaded thebases with oneout. Then ahit by pitch and asacrifice fly tied the game.

The first 31/2 innings couldn’t have been better for the LSU offense. The Tigers scored seven runs on nine hits, knocking around Mississippi State left-handed ace Tomas Valincius with timelyhittingand asolo homer from fresh-

defensivetacklesinteamdrills, but Geralds andAuburn transfer Malik Blocton usually have been thefirst two on the field.

WR •JACKSON HARRIS

LSUhas abunchofnewcomersatwide receiver but no clear No. 1target. Can Harris stepinto that role? The Hawaiitransfer caught three touchdowns in the secondspring scrimmage in Tiger Stadium, flashing an abilitytopick up yards after thecatch andbring down tough grabs against tight coverage. He has size (6-foot-2, 202 pounds)and speed, but time will tell whether he’ll have astarting role. Several wideouts could emerge.

RB •DILIN JONES

return to theTigers for hisredshirt sophomoreyear,and nowhe’s holdingoff afew transfers forhis startingspot.LSU hasn’tput anyoneelse therein practices open to reporters. Kiffinsaid Tuesday that Davishas a“high ceiling” and that he’s “donea goodjob” so far

DT •DEUCE GERALDS LSUhas afew veterans who can shore up the defensive line,but a freshman has run ahead of two of them in spring practices. Geralds signed with the Tigers as one of thenation’stop-60 recruits, according to 247Sports composite rankings, and now it looks like he’s in line for amajor role right away LSUhas been rotating its starting

Jones has run ahead of both Harlem Berry andCaden Durham in spring practices. Things could change in August, andLSU is expected to use arotation of running backs anyway,but it’s clear that Jones hasimpressed Kiffinand the coaching staff. The 5-11, 211-pound tailback transferred in from Wisconsin, whereherushed 76 times for 300 yards and two touchdowns as aredshirtfreshmanin2025before atoe injuryended his season after sevengames LT •JORDAN SEATON Seatonmadethis listonly becauseherecently underwent a physical transformation, andnow he looks even leaner and meaner than he did when he starredat Colorado. Will hisnew physique allow him to tap intomore mobil-

Alcaraz to miss French Open with wrist injury

MADRID Carlos Alcaraz won’tplay for athird successive French Open title due to aright wristinjury Alcaraz posted on XonFriday that he alsowould notappear in thepreceding Italian OpeninRome, where he alsowon lastyear No. 2-rankedAlcaraz wasinjured at the Barcelona Open this month during hisfirst-round win andwithdrewthe day after He pulled out of this week’s MadridOpenand attendedthe Laureus WorldSportsAwards in theSpanish capital on Mondaywith hiswrist immobilized.Alcaraz was named world sportsman of the year at the gala Alcarazconfirmed he wasanogo for Paris after undergoing more medical tests on Friday.

The French Open opens on May 18

Arkansas to drop men’s, women’stennisprograms

FAYETTEVILLE,Ark. Arkansasisdropping its men’sand women’s tennis programs following the2026 season forfinancialreasons.

“The landscape of college athletics continues to evolve, requiring us to make challenging choices as we balance competitive opportunities, resources and the long-term sustainability of ourdepartment,” Arkansas athletic director Hunter Yurachek said in astatementFriday. “Ultimately,weconcluded that we are unable to provide the level of support necessary forour tennis programs to consistently compete in the SEC and nationally at the standard ourstudent-athletes,coaches alumniand supporters deserve.” Discontinuation of the tennis teams leaves Arkansas with 17 sponsored sports.

Furyk is returning as U.S. Ryder Cup captainfor 2027

HOUSTON Jim Furyk is returning as U.S. Ryder Cup captain for the 2027 matches in Ireland as the Americans trytoget back on track against aEuropean team that has dominated the last three decades.

man catcher Omar Serna. Serna led the way,finishing the daygoing 3for 5. Milam drove in three runs and went 2for 5. Serna was 3for 5with tworuns scored andtwo RBIs. DerekCuriel,Braun and Patrick also had multiple hits. Valincius gave up seven runs, but only three of them were earned. It was his shortest start of theseason; he entered the game with a1.81 ERA in 592/3 innings. LSU and Mississippi State continue their three-game series on Saturday.First pitch from Dudy Noble Field is set for6:30 p.m., andthe game will be availableto watch on ESPN2.

Email Koki Rileyatkoki.riley@ theadvocate.com. For more LSU sports updates, signupfor our newsletter at theadvocate.com/ lsunewsletter

ity? And will that added athleticism help LSUrun theball? It’s tough to tell in spring practice because the Tigers aren’t tackling yet, but it’seasy to envision the possibilities that the transfer portal’stop offensive lineman brings with him to BatonRouge.

WR •WINSTON WATKINS Watkins, atruesophomore, might be primedfor abreakout year.Healreadyknows Kiffin’s offense, whichgives him an edge over theother wideouts who have been jockeying for snaps in spring practices. TheOle Miss transfer is aslotreceiver,and he’sshown that he knows how to create separationonhis underneath routes. In the second scrimmageLSU held in Tiger Stadium, Watkins caught ateam-high 10 passes. He was all over the field.

•PHILLIPWRIGHT

WR

Don’toverlook Wright, the only wide receiverwho reuppedwith LSU through the coaching change. TheDestrehan product can fly, andhe’sshown offhis speed a few times in spring practices. The problem for Wright is that the Tigers signedthree veteran wideouts whoalreadyhaveproventhat they can burn defenses over the top: Jayce Brown (Kansas State), TreBrown (Old Dominion) and Harris (Hawaii). TreBrown sat outspring withanapparent foot injury,giving Wright an opportunity to push forsnaps.Itlooks like he took advantage of it.

The PGAofAmerica on Fridayafternoon confirmedanAssociated Press report on Furyk’s selection, which makes him the fourth U.S. captain to get asecond chance dating to 1979, considered the modern era of the Ryder Cup when continental Europebecame part of it.

The Ryder Cup committeechose Furyk once Tiger Woods removed himself fromcompetition after his March 27 arrest on suspicion of DUI.

Furyk wasthe 2018 captain in Paris, a17 ½-10 ½ winbyEurope.

Francetostep downaschief executive officerofNASCAR

CHARLOTTE,N.C.— NASCAR majority ownerJim France is stepping down as chief executive and will be replaced by president Steve O’Donnell, according to multiple reports.

Francewill remain as NASCAR’s chairman and his majority ownership stake will not change.

O’Donnell will be the first person outside the France family to hold the CEO title of NASCAR. Bill France Sr.founded the United States’ mostpopular racing series in 1948 and always had afamily member in thetop role priortothe changesexpected to be announced at TalladegaSuperspeedway in Alabama on Saturday Ben Kennedy,France’sgreatnephew,will be promoted to chief operating officer

Raptors’ Quickleytomiss rest of 1st-round series vs. Cavs TORONTO— Raptors guard Immanuel Quickley aggravated his strained right hamstring while working his wayback from the injury andwill notbeavailable during Toronto’sfirst-round playoff series against Cleveland, the team said Friday Quickley averaged 16.4 points, acareer-high 5.9 assists and 4.0 rebounds in 70 games in the regular season. He scored at least 20 points in 20 games and recorded eight double-doubles. After missing several lateseason games because of plantar fasciitis in his right foot, Quickley injured his hamstring in Toronto’sregular-season finale against Brooklyn. Jamal Shead hasstarted in Quickley’splace against the Cavaliers.

STAFF PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

Winston

PHOTO By MICHAEL BACIGALUPI

Chapelle’s lone senior powers herteam’srally

BY CHRISTOPHER DABE Staff writer

Kelsie Schmidt prayed for calm in the bottom of the seventh inning. Then she delivered the biggest swing of her career

With astate tournament berth on the line, the lone Chapelle senior faced atwo-strike count when shetook an outside pitch for ball two.

The next pitch went right where she wanted it, as Schmidt blasted the belt-high offering for atwo-run home run that lifted No. 3Chapelle over No. 6St. Thomas More to a 6-5 victory in an LHSAA Division Iselect state quarterfinalFriday at Butch Duhe Playground.

The win advanced Chapelle (248) to the state tournament for the sixth year in arow.Chapelle, a statechampion in 2024,overcame a5-3 deficit in the final inning and will face No. 2Pineville in the semifinals next week in Sulphur

“All Iwas doing in the outfield in the seventh inning waspraying,” Schmidt said. “Praying to God and giving all my glory to Him, letting theresults be what it’sgoingtobe, but Iknew he was in my heart and in my corner always.” Schmidt kept praying as Taylor Allen singled,and KamDiMaggio’sdouble put runners on second and third. Mia Impastato’ssacrifice fly to right field made it aonerungame before Schmidtcame to bat.

“When Iwas goingthrough that at-bat, Iwas actually saying the Hail Mary,” Schmidt said with a laugh. “Like, seriously.And Idon’t know,Ijust stayed calm and was like, ‘This is what you’ve played 18 years of softballfor.’

The ball clearedthe fence in left field with plenty of room to spare, ano-doubter that had Schmidt crying tears of joy as she rounded second base and put Chapelle coach Scott O’Brien on his knees, hunched over withemotion in the

her

KelsieSchmidt, center,ofChapelle

with teammates against Mount Carmel

agameatButch

in Kennerearlier this season. Schmidthit the game-winning homer Friday against St.Thomas More.

third-base coach’sbox.

“It’ssomething you dream of,” O’Briensaid. “It’ssomething you writeabout.It’ssomethingyou read about. It’ssomething you see on TV.Especially akid like her. She’sagreat person. Everybody loves her.”

Schmidt, aright fielder,has been on varsitysince shewas in eighth grade.

“She’slikeour mom,” said DiMaggio, ajunior.“We love her so much. There’salittle bitofher in allofus, andwhenshe leaves, you’re going to see Kelsie in all of us, no matterwhat.”

Chapelle and St.Thomas More (18-12)haveplayedthree one-run gamesinthe playoffs over the past four seasons —splitting apair of semifinal battles in 2023 and 2024.

St. Thomas More coach Andrea Waguespack saidthe decision to pitch to Schmidt was “a coaching call.”

“Wecouldhave put two kids on that kind of hurt us during the game and gone after the bottom

of the lineup, and who knows, they still might have won,” she said. “But Itake that one. That’s on me.”

St.Thomas More used two pitchers, bringing two-time all-state selectionMargaret Oge intothe circle after Chapelle scored three runs in thefirst inning.

LivNevels of Chapelle didn’t issueawalk during the winning effort.She also hit an RBI doubleinthe first inning. Impastato drove in three runs, hitting a two-rundoubleduring the threerun first.

St. ThomasMore built itslead with Camilla DesOrmeaux’s two-run tying homerun in the fourth inning followed by Emiry Jeane’sRBI doubleduringa tworun fifth.

Schmidt hashit severalhome runs during her five-year varsity career,but never agame-winning shot to end the game.

“I just watched it go andcarry, andI just feltit,” Schmidt said. “I didn’thave to look. Ijust knew.”

Curtis softball keepsits state semifinalsstreakintact

BY SPENCERURQUHART

Staff writer

Hunter hires2 familiar faces forTulanestaff

BY GUERRYSMITH Contributingwriter

Tulane men’sbasketball coach RonHunter has filledthe vacancies on his staffwith twofamiliar names, asourceclose to the program confirmed. Former GreenWavebasketball star KimLewis has returned for his third stint as an assistant, while Hunter’s son, RJ Hunter, received apromotionafter joining the staff two years ago as a volunteer assistant. They are replacinglongtimeHunter assistants Sean Mock and Claude Pardue, who left recently for Memphis andCharlotte, respectively Lewis, 53, coached the past two seasons at Robert Morris. The Colonials won aschool-record 26 games in 2024-25, winning the Horizon League regular-season and tournament titles. Lewis also coached Horizon League Player of the Year DeSean Goodethis year Lewis’ earlier stops at Tulane werefrom2008-10 underDave Dickerson andfrom 1997-99 under Perry Clark,who coached him as a player for the Wave from 1990-95. He was Metro Conference freshmanofthe year andasecond-team all-league pick as asophomore, when he wasthe scoring leader for thefirst Wave team to reach the NCAA Tournament

In addition to his stops at Tulane, he hascoached at Xavier (New Orleans), McNeese State, Northeastern, Duquesne, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, Richmond and Mercer Lewis entered theTulane Athletics Hall of Famein2014 as an individual and in 2020 as amember of the1991-92 team.

RJ Hunter,32, led Georgia Statetoanupset of No. 3Baylor in the first round of the 2015 NCAA Tournament, sinking a late 3-point shot to give hisdad his only win in four tourney appearances as acoach. Drafted by the Boston Celtics in the first round of the 2015 NBADraft(No. 28 overall), he spent two seasons

in theleague before bouncing around the GLeague and going overseas.

No regrets

Two-time all-conference point guard Rowan Brumbaugh, who will transfer to SMUfor hisfinal season, said Thursday he loved his twoyears with Tulane. Brumbaugh was afirst-team pick in 2024-25, when he averaged 15.5 points, 4.8 assists and 4.0 rebounds as Tulane went 12-6 in the American and lost by one point to Memphis in the conference tournament semifinals.

He ledthe team in scoring (19.2), rebounds (4.9), assists (3.5) and steals(1.6) this season,makingthe second team afterbeing named preseason player of the year.Tulane slipped to 8-10 in the conference, losing to Charlotte in the secondround of thetournament.

Although Brumbaugh’sfrustration wasevident with the falloff, he said he had no regrets about hisdecisiontoplayfor Tulane after transferring from Georgetown.

“My experience waseven betterthanIcan imagine,” he said. “I had great friends and great coaches here, and Ifeel like Iimproveda ton. Iamsoblessedto call this place the school Igraduated from (with adegree in communications), andIwill forever be involved in athletics here moving forward.

“New Orleans will always have my heart. Ilove to fish and hunt, and this is the greatest city for that.” SMU lost to Miami (Ohio)in the First Four in coach Andy Enfield’ssecondyear with the Mustangs. Enfield guidedUSC to the NCAA Tournament five times in 10 chances.

“I chose SMU because Andy Enfield hasa greatwinning track record,” Brumbaugh said. “Him andIwereveryconnected on apersonallevel. Irelatedto him alot, and Iwill be very comfortable playing for someone like that.”

John Curtis sophomore Isabelle Schmidt wasn’t astartertobegin this softball season butshowed why she earned aspot in the lineup during Friday’squarterfinal matchup against Ponchatoula. Curtis was facing Ponchatoula in the Division Iselect quarterfinals at the John Curtis Softball Field, and the Patriots trailed by two runs when Schmidt came to bat in the bottomof the second. The sophomore left fielderdrove in two runs to tiethe game with an RBI single up the middle.

Schmidt wasn’tdone driving in runs, as she delivered two more RBI singles in a9-3 Curtiswin to advance to the Patriots to the state semifinals in Sulphur.She finished 3for 4with four RBIs.

“I waskeeping my hands through (the at-bats) and staying connected,”Schmidt said. “It felt great to finally pull through for

the team. I’ve just been wanting to playand finally show out.”

The reigning Division Iselect state champion, Curtis kept its streak alive of reaching the semifinals, whichdates back to 2017.

The No. 4-seeded Patriots (20-11) will face No. 1Mount Carmel (245) on Friday in Sulphur “I’m really excitedfor thegirls, but the job isn’tover with yet,” Curtis coach JerryGodfrey said.

“Wecame outand played good team softball(againstPonchatoula).”

Curtis lost10-4 to Ponchatoula in theregular season, but junior startingpitcherMakayla Escude bouncedback in Friday’spostseason rematch. Escude threwacomplete game in the quarterfinaltriumph, limitingPonchatoula to three earned runs,seven hits andfourwalks to go with fivestrikeouts.

“(Ponchatoula) can swing,”Godfrey said. “The job Makayla did keeping theball down, getting groundballs, gettingpop-ups and a strikeout whenever we needed to, shenever got rattled.”

Curits took thelead in the bottom of the third and led therest

of the way after Kynadi Torregano scored from second base on a throwing error Schmidt’ssecond RBI single in thebottom of the fourth put Curtis up by two, and the Patriots took a four-run lead after Gabby Fabacher singled up the middletodrive in Schmidt and Caroline Naccari.

Ponchatoulastarting pitcher Abby Dagropitched sixinnings, allowing six earned runs, 12 hits and threewalks. Twoerrors resulted in three unearned runs. Dagro scored the first run of the game after Ponchatoulajunior Lilly Dagro hit an RBI double, and senior Rae’ElWheat delivered an RBI double in the topofthe seventh.

“Wedidn’thave the timely hits, and (Curtis) did,” Ponchatoula coach JeremyHarper said. “We don’tget as faraswedothis year without this senior class (of Dagro and Wheat). No. 5-seeded Ponchatoula finished the season 25-9.

The winner of Curtis and Mount Carmel will face either No. 2PinevilleorNo. 3Chapelleinthe DivisionI select state title game next Saturday

6. St. Augustine 32. 7. Holy Cross27½.8.Edna Karr 12. Regional qualifiers 100: 1. Easton Royal, BrotherMartin10.24. 2. NasirCeazer, Rummel10.42. 3. Micah Green, Rummel 10.54. 4. Derrick Bilbo,John Curtis 10.79. 200: 1. Nasir Ceazer,Rummel 21.04. 2. Easton Royal,BrotherMartin21.13. 3. Micah Green, Rummel21.44. 4. Owen Moller, Brother Martin 21.59. 400: 1. Miles Torres, Warren Easton 48.66. 2. NasirCeazer, Rummel48.69. 3. Gabriel Gonzalez, John Curtis 49.58. 4. Glenn Williams,EdnaKarr 50.26. 800: 1. Connor Fanberg,Jesuit 1:58. 2. Ian Acosta, BrotherMartin2:01.25. 3. Brayden Bulloch, BrotherMartin2:01.77. 4. Terence Connor, St. Augustine 2:02.65. 1,600: 1. Connor Fanberg,Jesuit 4:23.13. 2. PatrickSmith, Jesuit 4:27.91. 3. Daniel Bonilla, BrotherMartin4:31.17. 4. William Lionnet, BrotherMartin4:32.46. 3,200: 1. David Quintana, Jesuit 9:13.7. 2. Anders Maitrejean, BrotherMartin9:26.64. 3. Caleb Carmouche,BrotherMartin 9:32.78. 4. Nick Accardo, Jesuit 9:33.22. 110 hurdles: 1. Ja’ir Burks, Jesuit 13.7. 2. JeronBickham, Warren Easton 14.13. 3. Miles Torres, Warren Easton 14.25. 4. Landen Williams,John Curtis 14.55. 300 hurdles: 1. Ja’ir Burks, Jesuit 37.76. 2. Landon Williams, John Curtis 38.64. 3. Jeron Bickham,Warren Easton 39.03. 4. Drago Cvitanovich,Jesuit 40.36. 4x100 relay: 1. BrotherMartin41.40. 2. Jesuit 41.72. 3. St.Augustine 42.26. 4. Holy Cross 43.75. 4x200 relay: 1. John Curtis 1:27.35. 2. St. Augustine 1:28.08. 3. Warren Easton 1:28.98. 4. Edna Karr 1:30. 4x400 relay: 1. John Curtis 3:23.58. 2. Rummel 3:27.15. 3. St.Augustine 3:27.42. 4. Brother Martin 3:27.99. 4x800 relay: 1. Jesuit 8:08.01. 2. Brother Martin 8:23.48. 3. St. Augustine 8:38.58. 4. Warren Easton 8:59.43. High jump: 1. Ja’ir Burks, Jesuit 5-10. 2. Drago Cvitanovich,Jesuit 5-10. 3. Isaac Berthelot, Rummel5-8. 4. Jeremiah Macklin, Warren Easton 5.8. Long jump: 1. Miles Torres, Warren Easton 22-5. 2. Carl Reed,Warren Easton 21-9. 3. Owen Moller, BrotherMartin21-5½.4 Braedon Gautier, Holy Cross21-1. Triple jump: 1. Carl Reed,Warren Easton 41-9. 2. Tyler Oufnac,Jesuit39-6. 3. Zachary LaGraize,Jesuit 38-8. 4. KirbyCade, Rummel 38.2½ Pole vault: 1. Drago Cvitanovich,Jesuit 14-0. 2. Jude Cannon, Jesuit 13-0. 3. Myron Wilhike, Warren Easton 9-0. Discus: 1. Tanairo Houston, Rummel151-4. 2. Nicholas Bruno, BrotherMartin148-8. 3. ZyaireShepard, John Curtis 139-4. 4. William Hall, John Curtis 135-3. Javelin: 1. Oliver Hartman, Jesuit 170-4. 2. Brady Allen, BrotherMartin163-2. 3. Michael Taylor, Holy Cross160-5. 4. Connor Vorhoff, BrotherMartin152-1. Shot put: 1. Zyaire Shepard,John Curtis 5310. 2. Spencer Waguespack, Jesuit 51.9½ 3. TanairoHouston, Rummel 49-3¼.4.Kenneth Holmes, BrotherMartin43-3½

STAFF PHOTO By DAVIDGRUNFELD

celebrates

homerun

during

Duhe Park

ZURICH CLASSIC

FROM THEGALLERY: QUICKTAKES FROM THEZURICHCLASSIC

WEATHER

Saturdayin

Avondale:

Damp outlook …Good chance of rain early and late, forcing tee times to be movedback to 9:58 a.m. off both tees. Winds south 8-12 mph. High 84.

SCORES

LEADING/LURKING

First-roundleaders Alex Smalley andHayden Springerare still in front after a2-under 70 gotthem to 16-under 128 at the Zurich’s halfwaypoint.Three teams are one stroke back: Mattand Alex Fitzpatrick, Billy Horscheland TomHoge, and Davis Thompson andAustin Eckroat.

TOURNAMENT FORMAT

HEADINGINTOSATURDAy’STHIRD ROUND

Two-man teamsplaythe following format: Thursday: Four-ball (best ball) Friday: Foursomes (alternate shot) Saturday: Four-ball (best ball) Sunday: Foursomes (alternate shot)

TICKETS/PARKING

Daily tournament tickets are $45 each.Activemilitary are admitted free, as are children under 15 with paying adult at the Lapalco Boulevard gate only.Public parking is at NOLAMotorsports Park,11075 Nicolle Blvd., with an entrance near the third green.

TV/STREAMING

ESPN+ is streaming its third-round coveragestarting at 9a.m. Saturday. Golf Channelbegins itscoverage at noon, withCBS starting at 2p.m.

Life-changingevent?

-15

-14

-14

-14

-13

-13

-13

-12

-11

A.Ewart/C.Jarvis

C.Bezuidenhout/E.VanRooyen65-68—133 -11

D.Brown/J.Parry 66-67—133 -11

-11

-11

-11

-11

-9 Z.Blair/P.Fishburn

-9

-8

-8

-8 L.List/H.Norlander

-8 M.Brennan/J.Keefer61-75—136 -8 M.Hughes/T.Pendrith

62-74—136 -8 R.Brehm/M.Hubbard65-71—136 -8

R.Knox/P.Malnati 65-71—136 -8

Z.Dou/D.Wu64-72—136 -8

H.Li/J.Smith 67-70—137 -7

M.Rozo/C.Villegas 66-71—137 -7

P.Nyholm/J.Svensson 61-76—137 -7

S.Jaeger/J.Suber61-76—137 -7

T.Duncan/A.Schenk

W.Gordon/P.Peterson

C.Lamprecht/N.Shipley

J.Dahmen/K.Streelman

67-70—137 -7

65-72—137 -7

67-71—138 -6

64-75—139 -5

J.Hahn/K.Stanley 64-76—140 -4

T.Kim/K.Yu 66-74—140 -4

68-73—141 -3

K.Hirata/K.Nakajima

T.Merritt/R.Streb 66-75—141 -3

C.Champ/B.Silverman 64-78—142 -2

C.Hoffman/N.Watney 67-75—142 -2

C.Kim/R.Palmer 67-75—142 -2

65-77—142 -2

G.Higgo/M.Kuchar

J.Stanger/D.Walker 66-76—142 -2

C.Kirk/P.Kizzire72-71—143 -1

J.Byrd/C.Reavie

F.Capan/N.Goodwin

63-80—143 -1

67-78—145 +1

TEETIMES

What would winning this year’sZurich ClassicofNew Orleans mean?

It dependsonthe team. In some cases, it depends on the player within the team.

Take world No. 3Matt Fitzpatrick, for example. He becamea major champion by winning the 2022 U.S. Open. Last week, he beat world numero uno Scottie Scheffler in aplayoff to win the RBC Heritage, one of theelevated purse signature events on the PGA Tour

Awin for himthis week would be nice. AnyPGA Tour victory is arare gem. Butvictory probably would bemore meaningful to Matt forwhat it would mean for hisbrother Alex.

Alex Fitzpatrick is no top-10 world player likehis older sibling, but he’snoslouch, either He arrived in New Orleans ranked 141st in the world, and last month he earned his first victory on the DP World Tour

It cameatthe Hero Indian Open on the Gary Player-designed course at aplace called DLF Golf &Country Club just outsidethe capital New Delhi. Two-time Masters and former Zurich champRory McIlroy once called DLF “the mostinfamous golf course in the world” forits difficulty.Coming as it did the week after Matt won the Valspar Championship in the Tampa Bay area, it made them the first siblings to win on the PGA Tour and theDPWorld Tour in backto-back weeks.

“I’ll try andexplain how this feels without crying,” the 27-year-old said that week. “It’s been alot of hard work for along time. It can be hard sometimes when you’re constantly chasing someone’saccolades, but luckily, it’smybrother

ZURICH

Continued from page1C

Thirty-five teams madethe cut at 10-under 134. Amongthe notables who failed to makethe cut were Shane Lowryand Brooks Koepka, the field’smost accomplished team, who missed thecut by one stroke at 9-under 135; Tony Finau and Max Greyserman (9 under); and Charley Hoffman and Nick Watney (2-under 142).

Best-ball play in Saturday’s third round will start at 9:58 a.m., with the leaders scheduled to tee off at 11:50 a.m. Tournament officials pushed back thetee times because ofpotential rain forecast for the areaonSaturday morning. To expedite play, teams willsplit starts from hole Nos. 1and 10.

Scoring duringFriday’salternate-shot play was not easy.Risingtemperatures throughout the day dried the greens andstoked Southerly crosswinds to 14 mph gusts, forcing players to be creativewith their drivesand approachshots

“I wore my 4- and5-ironout today,” said Nick Dunlap,who, alongwith teammate Gordon Sargent,istwo strokes back at 14 under. “There’snot justacouple of good shots you have to hit. There’s avery good amount.”

The Fitzpatrick brothers took advantageoftheir early tee time to record the lowround of the day a7-under 65 highlighted by some

“It’sextremely nice to join him in the winners’ ranks, and hopefully Ican continue to push on. I idolize him.I’m just trying to be like him in every way.Soyeah, hopefully we can keep doing well.”

Alex plays most of his golf on the DP World Tour,which in baseball terms is Triple-A ball to the PGATour’smajor leagues Impressive to play and win on, certainly,but not the highest level. It’s like the EFLChampionship league in English football, where the Fitzpatricks’ beloved Sheffield United is languishing mid table, compared to the Premier League.

Awin this week would change all of that. Awin this week, aside from nearly $1.4 million for each player,would give Alex Fitzpatrick (here on asponsor’s exemption) an exemption to play theentire PGA Tour through the 2028 season. No chasing agolf ball to farflung places such as India. No worries of English football-like relegation for the rest of this season. Andthe next.And thenext. Awin for Alex Fitzpatrick would change his career

“It wouldobviously mean a lot,” he said. “The thing is you can’tforce it. Ithink that would be something Imight be thinking about if we’re coming downthe stretch on Sunday and we’re in contention.

“Yeah, it would be nice to win. Butalso, it’sjust nice to be here with (Matt) and have the opportunitytoplay and compete and see how we get on. Hopefully, we don’tplay like (Sheffield United).” Through the first tworounds of theZurich,the brothers Fitzpatrick are definitely on much finer form than Sheffield United. They were disappointed by their finishThursday in the easier best-ball format, both hitting their second shots in the water on the par-5 18th hole leading to bogeysand asolid but couldhave-been-better 8-under 64. But they bounced back impressively Friday with asuperb 7-under 65 in the tougher alternate-shot format, the best round of the day, highlighted by Matt’s60-foot chip in for eagle on 18. That put theFitzpatricks in athree-way

stellar puttingfrom each brother “Weplayedgreat today,” said Matt Fitzpatrick, the world No. 3-ranked player who entered the tournament on ahot streak after winning the RBC Heritagelast week. “Webarely missed ashot. Made the putts when we needed to,made somegood birdielooks, andyeah,just feltlikeweplayed really solid all around today.” TheFitzpatricks caught fire after eaglingthe 585-yard, par-5

No. 18 to finish their opening nine holes in 4-under 32. Theymaintained the momentum on their final nine, registering birdies on holes Nos. 1, 2, 5and 7tosurge into contention. Teamingfor thefourthconsecutive year at theevent, the Fitzpatricks’ comfort and familiarity with theTPC of Louisianatract wasevident as they played before alarge,enthusiastic gallery for 18 holes.

tie forsecond, just one back of first-round leaders Alex Smalley and Hayden Springer “I felt like we played really solid, holed the putts when we needed to and came up with a nice score,” Alex said.

On Saturday,the tournament reverts back to the morescorefriendly best-ball format before finishing Sunday with alternate shot. The brothers wereplanning to have dinner at Mr.B’s Bistro in the French Quarter forthe third timethis week.

Alex Fitzpatrick said he’s enjoyed the food just about everywhere he’splayed golf in the world, which is just about everywhere.

“I really loved playing in South Korea last year forthe first time,” he said. “The food was absolutely amazing. Sounds like my head always followsthe food, but there’sjust little things everywhere that are amazing.”

WinSunday,and the Fitzpatricks can makeMr. B’sand a fewother famous NewOrleans restaurants their homebase next season and the one after that.

“This tournament does mean alot to me.I’ve created alot of special relationships withthe fans here, and I’ve gota lot of closefriends.”

BILLy HORSCHEL,golfer

“Obviously playing here as afamily hasbeen great,” Alex Fitzpatricksaid. “Sincewefirst came here four years ago now, youguys have madeusincredibly welcomed. Almost like took us in with open arms.Coming here everyyearisexciting, and we always look forward to it. So nowit’salmost like abit of asecond home, we like it that much.”

The Zurich also feelslike home for Billy Horschel, who, with teammate TomHoge, is one stroke back at 15 under.Horschel recordedhis first PGATourvictory here in 2013 and is playing in his 14th Zurich Classic.

“This tournament does mean alot to me,” said Horschel,who teamed with Scott Piercy to win the 2018 Zurich Classic. “I’ve created alot of special relationships with the fans here, and I’ve got a lot of close friends.

“Coming here,I’vealways felt like it waslikeasecond home to me.Ialways want to play well, and it’s nicethatwe’re in agood position going into the weekend to, you know,dosomething special and see what happens.”

STAFFPHOTO By ENAN CHEDIAK

Hayden Springer,left, and Alex Smalley, right, celebrate after their putt on the 18thhole during the Zurich Classic on FridayatTPC Louisiana in Avondale.

ScottRabalais

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

An alligator watches from apond near the third hole on Thursday during the Zurich Classic at TPC Louisiana in Avondale.

STAFFPHOTO By BRETT DUKE

Alex Fitzpatrick tees off on the 11th hole during the second round of the Zurich ClassicatTPC Louisiana in

Scott Rabalais

NFL DRAFT

Tyson’stalententicing, butSaintstooka risk

WR’s injuryhistory raises red flag

Ipredicted Jordyn Tyson to the New Orleans Saints in my mock draft.

LSUplayers Haulcy, Thomas picked in thirdround of draft

BY REED DARCEY &KOKI RILEY Staff writers

Jeff Duncan

Ilovehis talent andthe bubbly, engaging personality he brandished in his post-draft news conference with local reporters His ability jumps off the game tape. He might very well be the best receiver in the NFL draft. But I’d havepreferred safety Caleb Downs at No. 8. Maybe I’m getting conservative in my old age,but Downs feelslikethe saferpick, someone whomany expertsand scouts believewillbeaperennial Pro Bowler and no worse than a10-year NFL starter Downs is aSaints’ kinda guy: smart, to ugh, productive, team captain. He would have stepped right into the starting lineup at the Star position and solidified the back end of the defense. When allissaid and done, Ithink he will end up being abetter NFL player than Tyson.

Butthe Saintsdecided that adding adynamic receiverlike Tyson to their offense was more important than adding abig nickeltotheir defense.

Maybe they felt Tyson’s ceiling was higher than Downs. Maybe theyliked the defensivebacks in Round 2and/or Round 3better than the receivers they have graded there. Maybe theysimply don’tbelieve philosophically in taking asafety in the top 10. Whatever the reason, they liked Tyson better.And in football terms, Ican understandthe

TRADING

Continued from page1C

Harbaugh said “everybody’stradable” when asked about his availability amid rumorsNew York might be willing to move on.

ThoughThibodeaux has recorded fewer than six sacks in three of hisfirstfour seasons,the pass rusher did enjoy abreakout campaignin2023. Thatyear, Thibodeaux recorded acareerbest 111/2 sacks with 50 tackles. He can win with quickness andhas good size at 6-foot-5, 258 pounds Thibodeaux would make sense for the Saints, too. Even if free agent Cam Jordan re-signs with the franchise, New Orleans would benefit from gettingyoungerand more athleticatdefensiveend

TheSaints ranked 21st in pressure percentage last season, despite ranking 10th in sacks Whether atrade happens comes downtocost. At the moment, the Giants’ asking price for Thibodeaux isn’tpublicly known. After the Giants made their ownsecond-round selectionFri-

PICKS

Continued from page1C

easy way out for me. Iwanted to be challenged.Iwanted to come back and see how Ican be better in college.”

As aplayer,Miller had acolorful description for his playing style “I want to run through somebody’s face,” Miller said. “I seek physicality,Iwant physicality. This is what I was taught, it’show I’ve always been and that’s…what Ilive by.” Miller is aversatilepiece inside, having demonstrated the ability to play anywhere from nose tackle to the fivetechnique.

While there’snot aclearneed on the defensive interior now,Miller is an investment in the Saints’defensive future. Both starters from last year’sunit —Nathan Shepherd andDavonGodchaux— are returning for 2026, but both are into their 30s and entering the final year of their contract.

Georgia played in the Sugar Bowl twice during Miller’stime there,and through that time, he gained an appreciation of the city —somuch so that he’d toldsomeone beforethe

why behind the decision. Tyson has big-time talent. When healthy,he’sthe kind of weapon defenses must account for before the snap. He provides critical insurance for Chris Olave, should the veteran receiver’sconcussion history resurface, alegitimate concern in agame as violent as professional football. The receiving corps is decidedly moredangerous and dynamic with atalent like Tyson. He opensupthe playbook for a creativeplay-caller such as Kellen Moore. The offense shouldn’t rank near the bottomofbig plays next season with Tyson on board. Still, Ican’thelp but think aboutthe risk in taking areceiver withsomany injuryred flags. And for ateam that can’t afforda major misstep as it tries

day, general manager Joe Schoen

fiercely denied New York had engaged in tradeconversations about Thibodeauxduring the draft

“No, nothing’s changed,” Schoen told reporters. “I wish Icould just put anything out in the Twittersphere andjust letpeople run with it. No. There’snotruth to that. We have not had any conversations today aboutKayvon.”

Said Harbaugh on Thursday: “Wekeep allthe good players as much as we can, right? We love Kayvon.WeloveKayvon.”

If that changes,Schoen would be far from the first executive to say one thingand do another.The Giants already traded defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence to the CincinnatiBengals days before the draft. Then on Thursday, New York took linebacker Arvell Reese —a prospect many expect to eventuallybecomeapass rusher in the NFL. Reese’sselection would give New York wiggle roomtopart wayswith Thibodeaux, though the Giants’ brass saiditenvisions Reese as an off-ball linebacker

TheSaintswere rumored to be interested in trading up for Reesebefore the draft beganbut

draft that he needed to make his way back for Mardi Gras.

But he’s also gotabit of ascore to settle in New Orleans.

“Welost theSugar Bowl two times in arow,” Millersaid. “So, trust me,Igot abad taste in my mouth. We’regoing to turnthat aroundfor sure.”

While Delp grew up in an Atlanta suburb, he said he was nevermuch of aFalconsfan —hefollowed college football more closely

But the twoare both Georgia natives.Bothbegan theircareer with the Bulldogs as freshmen in 2022 and stayedfor four years. And the first callDelptookaftertheSaintsselected him was aFaceTime from Miller.

“It was awesome,” Delp said. “I love thatdude. I’ve known Chris since we wereineighth grade.”

Like Miller,Delp is aGeorgia native whoplayedhis entire fouryearcareer in hishomestate. He played extensively in his final three years, but put up modest numbersasareceiver,with his best statistical season coming in 2023 when hecaught 24 passes for 284 yards.

Butthere is reason to believe there issome untappedpotential as areceiver.Hewas never

to recover from its worst season in nearly two decades, that’sa risk Iwouldn’thave taken with a sure thing like Downs available.

One day after general manager Mickey Loomis saidthe club would be risk-averse in making just theirsecondtop-10pick in the last 18 years, the Saints took areceiver with an injury history so extensive some NFLteams removed him from their boards. Tyson missed multiple games in each of hisfourcollegeseasons. It wasn’t just one thing, either. There was aknee, an ankle, acollarbone anda hamstring. He needed five months to fully recover from the hamstringinjury he suffered in October

Clearly,the Saints felt thepotential reward of Tyson’stalent was worth the risk. Time will tell whether they’re right.

ultimately stood patatNo. 8. So far,the Saintshave passed on the chance to draft an edge rusher

In Round 1, New Orleans drafted wide receiver Jordyn Tysonover Miami’s Rueben Bain, whowent 15th overalltothe Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Then in Round 2, when a run on pass rushers started, the Saints bypasseda chance to take either Michigan’s Derrick Moore (No. 44 to Detroit) or Missouri’s Zion Young (No. 45 to Baltimore).

TheSaintshavefive more picks on Day 3, so it’spossible the team still adds an edge rusher over the next few rounds. Butbythis point in the draft, the chances of finding someonewho could make an immediate impact are diminished. Alate-round flyer on the position likely won’tquiet the chatter around Thibodeaux, nor should it.

Thibodeaux, on his end,seemed to feed into therumors. Shortly afterSchultztweeted his report,the pass rusherposted asince-deleted clip on hisInstagram from the “Fastand theFurious” franchise in whichPaulWalker’scharacter says goodbye to VinDiesel’scharacter That could leave theSaints saying hello.

targeted more than32times in a single season in college, and he bringsimpressivephysical traits in a6-foot-5, 245-pound package —Delp rana4.49-second 40-yard dash at Georgia’spro day

New Orleansalreadyhas apairof tight ends with plenty of NFL productionontheir resume in Juwan Johnson and Noah Fant.But Delp playedthe traditional Ytight end rolewiththe Bulldogs,and offers ablocking complement to Johnson and Fant’sreceiver skill sets

“I think what we’re getting is a really smartplayer,”Moore said “. It’llallowustoplaythe chess piece gamewhen you have Juwan andyou have Noah that you want to putincertain positions, he’ll be able to counteract those guys.

The blocking aspect of his position is “the most important part,” according to Delp “I love being able to dominate another man,and in asuccessful offense, you have to have atight end that can dominate theperimeter and own the Cgap,”Delp said.

The Saintscurrently own five more picksinthe 2026draft:Nos 132 and 136 in the fourth round, Nos. 150 and 172 in the sixth round and No. 190 in the sixth round.

LSUsafety AJ Haulcy and wide receiverZavion Thomas wereselected in the third round of the2026 NFL Draft on Friday TheIndianapolis Colts chose Haulcy withthe 78th overall selection, andinasurprise move, the Chicago Bears picked Thomas with the 89th overall choice.

Haulcy was expected to be aDay 2pick. The Houston native was aheadliner of the topranked transfer class that the Tigerssigned in 2025. In the lone season he spentinBaton Rouge, he recorded 88 tackles, four pass breakups and three interceptions.Healsogave up only 23 receptionsfor 265 yards and one touchdown in coverage, according to Pro Football Focus.

Most draft expertspredicted that Thomas —aMarrero native who prepped at John Ehret —would be picked in one of the lastthree rounds of thedraft. He nevertallied more than 503 yards receiving in aseason during his career, which started at Mississippi Statein2022.

Thomas likely boosted his draft stock by running the 40-yarddash in 4.28 seconds, excelling on special teams and showing offhis versatilityas asenior at LSU. He hasmore than 1,500 career return yards, and in 2025, coach Brian Kelly and his stafflined himupall over the field —inthe slot, out wide and even in the backfield. He piled up nearly 200 career yards rushing.

Haulcy transferred to LSU after two seasons at Houston, wherehebecame afirst-team

All-Big 12 selection in his junioryear.Asa freshman at New Mexico, he had 87 tackles andthree tackles forloss before he joined theCougars ahead of his sophomore season.

Three former Tigers now have heard their names called in the NFL draft.The Kansas City Chiefstraded up from the ninth pick of the first round to the sixth on Thursdaysothey could select cornerback Mansoor Delane.

Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier andlinebacker Harold Perkinswere still waitingto hear their names called when thethird round concluded Friday At least four quarterbacks will be chosen ahead of Nussmeier: Indiana’sFernando Mendoza (first overall, Las VegasRaiders),Alabama’s Ty Simpson (13th overall, Los Angeles Rams), Miami’sCarson Beck (65th overall, Arizona Cardinals) and Penn State’s Drew Allar (76th overall, Pittsburgh Steelers). Nussmeier is LSU’sthird all-timeleadingpasser (7,699 yards). Only Tommy Hodson (9,115) and Joe Burrow(8,565) have thrown for more yards in an LSU uniform. In 2025, he became thefirst quarterback since 2003 to wear the No. 18 jersey —anhonor given annually to the team’stop leader Perkins wore No. 7—a jersey number traditionally awardedtoLSU’stop playmaker.In2025, he recorded 26 solo tackles, eight tackles forloss, four sacks, three pass breakups and three interceptions from theStar position. Day 3ofthe NFL draft will begin at 11 a.m. Saturday

NewRaiders QB Mendoza readytoprove hisworth

BY MARK ANDERSON AP sportswriter

HENDERSON, Nev Fernando

Mendoza sounded Friday likehe was ready to getdowntobusinessand prove he wasworthy of being the top pickinthe NFL draft. But the Heisman Trophy winner had been working on makingastrong impression long before he arrived in Las Vegas to be formally introduced by the Raiders.

He worked with former quarterback BrianGriese— both attended the same Miamihigh school —onwhat hisroleinthe West Coast offensecould look like, giving him ahead start in preparing for asimilar system used by new Raiders coach Klint Kubiak.

“I needed some guidance on how to become the bestNFL quarterback,” Mendoza said.

“Not just fora pro day or the combine, for September,October,December.Withthat, we wentover some general undercenter concepts and installed basic bread-and-butter concepts that any team would have.”

That dedication and mental approach to thegame, as well as Mendoza’sphysical traits, soldmanagement on the idea that he wasthe quarterback the franchise haslongsearched for in hopes of returning to the days whenthe Raiders were regular contenders.

General manager John Spytek marveled at Mendoza’sability to recall plays fromeven early in the season at Indiana. Spytek didn’thave to hitthe play buttonwhile they watched video before Mendoza not onlyrecognized theplaybut explained it in detail. Mendoza also acknowledged those plays that didn’tgo well andwhathemight have done differently.

“There was an honesty and aself-awarenesstoit,”Spytek said. “I’ve been apart of afew other quarterback interviews like that before, but not very many.” Much has been made of how

quickly Mendoza can transition from acollege system in which he wasinthe shotgun nearly everydowntoanoffense in which he will be undercenter the vast majority of snaps “Hisskill setfits with any offense in professional football,” Kubiak said. “The No. 1thing that Ilove about Fernandois his leadership, the way that he relates to his teammates and his abilitytowin. We’re looking for acompetitor to be our quarterback,and he went 16-0lastyear with aheck of ateam, and he led that group.” Mendoza’sfocus in Las Vegaswill be to learnfromveteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, whomthe Raiders signed earlier this month, and to begin to liveuptothe expectations of being thefirst pick. Kubiakand Spytek have talked about how they don’twant to throw arookie right into thestartinglineup, but also said the best player will getthe job Mendozaalso has another mission. He is launching the Mendoza Family Fund, contributing $500,000 out of his pocket, to try to find acure for multiple sclerosis.His mother,Elsa, uses a wheelchair because of MS, but made thecross-country trip with her family to LasVegas for Mendoza’s first full daywiththe Raiders.

“I believe one of my pillars andmyidentities is giving back and helping fight MS, giving to the community,” Mendoza said. “Sothat was ahuge partofmy identity,and it’s something that our family really wanted to do.” He credited hismotherwith helping revive his football career Mendoza was mostly overlooked coming out of high school and spent three yearsat California, redshirtingin2022 and then startingmostofthe following twoseasons. After earning abachelor’sdegree in just more than three years, he transferredtoIndiana andput together his breakout season as he led theHoosiers to thenational championship

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By GENE J. PUSKAR

Arizona State widereceiver Jordyn Tyson poses after beingchosen by the NewOrleans Saints with the eighth overall pick during the first round of theNFL draft on ThursdayinPittsburgh.

tAuRus (April 20-May 20) Think before youreact.Use your intelligence andcall on experts to back your claims. Preparation is essential if youwanttotake care of matters quickly and efficiently.

GEMInI(May21-June 20) Call the shots and make things happen. Make physical changes that enrich your lifeand boost your confidence. Rearrange your living space to accommodate your needs, and you'll flourish.

cAncER (June 21-July 22) Forget about what others aredoingand concentrate on what'sbest for you. Protect your reputation, position and your peace of mind. Putyour emotionsasideand let factsand figures dictate how you proceed.

LEO (July 23-Aug.22) Turn your dream into areality. Gather information and setasidewhat youneed financially, physically andemotionally to finish what youstart. Socialize,use charmand explore the possibilities.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-sept. 22) Make physical changes for the right reason. Refuse to be coerced into altering your looks to appease someone else. Avoidunnecessary costs andexpensive entertainment.

LIBRA(sept. 23-Oct. 23) Learn from your experiences,and don't make the same mistake twice. Rely on your instincts andpeople with your best interests at heart to get you where you want to go.

scORPIO (Oct. 24-nov. 22) You need to distance yourselffrom the hustle and bustle and give yourself time to think.

Refuse to letemotions lead you astray or cost youfinancially.You can't buy love.

sAGIttARIus (nov.23-Dec. 21) Put your differences with someoneaside andget your emotions undercontrol. Achange at home will influenceyourpersonal preferences. Acceptance and productivity are yourpath to peace of mind and happiness.

cAPRIcORn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Be careful with whom youshare information and personal thoughts. Stick close to home and put your energy into self-preservation and taking better careofyourself

AQuARIus(Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Changing your location or rearranging your space to meet your demands will ease stress. Don't hibernate when interactions will bringout the best in youand attract someone interesting.

PIscEs (Feb. 20-March 20) Relaxand watchthe world go by. Refuse to buy into someone else'sdream when you have your own plans to make. Simplify your lifeand let go of what causes you grief.

ARIEs (March 21-April 19) Participate; be a player, amover anda shaker. Letyour quick witand engaging appeal resonate throughout whatever room you enter. Pump it up, and you won'tbedisappointed.

The horoscope, an entertainment feature,isnot basedonscientific fact. ©2026 by nEa,inc., dist. By andrews mcmeel syndication

FAMILY CIrCUS

CeLebrItY

beetLe bAILeY

Mother GooSe And GrIMM

bIG

Sudoku

InstructIons: sudoku is anumber-placing puzzle based on a9x9 grid with several given numbers. Theobject is to place the numbers 1to9 in the empty squares so that each row, each column and each 3x3 boxcontains the same number only once. Thedifficulty level of thesudoku increases from monday to sunday

Yesterday’s PuzzleAnswer

THe wiZard oF id

BLondie

BaBY BLueS

Hi and LoiS

CurTiS

By PHILLIP ALDER Bridge

Henry David Thoreau, awriter who, inter alia, railed against taxes, said,“A simple and independent mind does not toil at thebidding of anyprince.

Here is adeal in which an opponent’s bidding helps declarer to findthe winning line of play.

South is in three no-trump. West leads thespade queen. What should declarer do?

WhenWest’s one-spade opening was passed around to South, he made atakeout double. West rebid in hissecond fivecard suit. Then North bravely advanced with three clubs. And South took ashot at threeno-trump,knowingitwasextremely unlikely that this contractwould fail andfive clubs would succeed

Declarer startswith sixtop tricks: two spades, twoheartsand twoclubs.Ifhe can play the clubs without loss, he will be home. But whohas the clubqueen?

There are only 15 high-card points missing, which might lead Southto thinkWestholdsthatkeycard.However, West’s bidding suggests that East is the favorite becauseWesthas so many more spades anddiamonds than East.

To try to cover all bases, declarer should lead the club jack from his hand. First,ifWest has queen-doubleton, he might cover. Andincase West is void of clubs, South is unblocking the suit. Here, when West discards, declarer winswith dummy’s king, runs the clubnine, plays aclub to his 10, andcashes the clubace. Then Southleads aheart to dummy’s ace and cashes the last club. With twomajorsuit winners still nestlinginhis hand, the contract is home ©2026 by nEa, inc., dist. By andrewsmcmeel syndication

Each Wuzzle is aword riddle whichcreates adisguised word, phrase,name, place, saying, etc. For example: nOOn gOOD =gOOD aFTErnOOn

Previous answers:

word game

InstRuctIOns: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 2. Words that acquire four lettersbythe 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’sWORD LAunDER: LAWN-der: To wash something in water.

Average mark35words

Time limit 45 minutes

Can you find 44 or more words in LAUNDER?

yEstERDAy’sWORD —IMMEDIAcy

dime aced acid acme aide aimed amid came

wuzzles

loCKhorNs

marmaduKe

Bizarro

hagar the horriBle

Pearls Before swiNe

garfield

B.C.

PiCKles

dIrectIons: make a2-to 7-letter word fromthe lettersineach row. add pointsof each word, using scoring directionsat right.Finally, 7-letter words get 50-point bonus. “Blanks”used as any letter havenopoint value.all the words are in theOfficial sCraBBlE® players Dictionary, 5th Edition.

GramS Yesterday’s Puzzle Answer

Formore information on tournaments and clubs, email naspa –northamericansCraBBlE playersassociation: info@scrabbleplayers.org.Visit ourwebsite:www.scrabbleplayers.org.

ken ken

InstructIons: 1 -Each row and each columnmust containthe numbers 1thorugh 4(easy) or 1through 6 (challenging) without repeating. 2 -The numbers within the heavily outlined boxes calledcages, must combine using the given operation (in any order) to produce the target numbers in the top-left corners 3 -Freebies: Fill in the single-box cages with the number in the top-left corner. HErE is

WiShinG Well

Scrabble

roSe iS roSe

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Informationonhow to obtaina bidpacketmay befound online at

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HOME | DESIGN | GARDEN | REAL ESTATE

HOME WORKWITHLOUIS

Canyou have stylishdecor with petsathome? PAGE 4

INSIDE INFO

Home and garden happenings. PAGE 7

AT HOME WITH MARNI

Adream house,except no gaslines. PAGE 8

GREENTHUMB

Start nowtoget aheadof weedyvines. PAGE 10

COVERSTORY

Nearly 50-year-old reno still feelsfresh. PAGE 14

ONEINAMILLION

Ahistoric Quarterhome with celebrityties. PAGE 18

INSIDE STORY

Used forsafety, gravel mulchistrending. PAGE 20

REAL ESTATE TRANSFERS

Recent transactions in the metroarea. PAGE 21

The InsideOut home and gardensection is published every Saturday by The Times-Picayune. Questions about InsideOut shouldbedirected to theeditor.

INSIDEOUT EDITOR: Lauren Walck, lauren.walkc@theadvocate. com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

Victor Andrews, Louis J.Aubert, Jyl Benson, Dan Gill,Marni Jameson

COVERDESIGN: Andrea Daniel

COVER PHOTO: Jeff Strout TO BE FEATURED: Send information and photos toinsideout@ theadvocate.com

InsideOut’smission is to give readers peeksinside themanydifferent ways that peopleinthe New Orleans area live.Weprofile spaces that are opulent,orjust offbeat; sophisticated or simple;functional or lighthearted;historicorbrand-spanking new. Andanything in between. Please help us by sending information andJPEGphotos of your home, or specific spaces inside it,toinsideout@theadvocate.com. We love gardens andoutdoor spaces, too. And we’re waiting to hear from you.

1Rue Royale •Metairie$725,000

Stunninghome, onelot from Lake Pontchartrainindesirable area.Cornerlot with soaring ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows&designer finishes.Includes select furnishings &crystal chandeliers. Privateoffice,balconies,generator &new waterheaters. Resort-style pool,landscapedyard, &outdoor grilling area perfectfor entertaining& relaxing!4Beds, 3Baths,3,457 Sqft Chip Gardner•504-236-3891Herbert Dubuisson •228-216-8456 COMPASS•985-626-5695www.Chip-Herbert.com

2131 Marion Drive•LaPlace$420,000

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716GovNichollsSt.,UnitE*HeartofFrenchQuarter $1,070,000

Jazz Fest Special: arestoredSpanish Stablescondo blending NewYork loft stylewithFrenchQuarter charm. Exposedbeams, fireplaces,11+ foot ceilings,hardwood floors,openliving,chef’skitchen,two privatesuites, geothermal system,and balcony overlooking aserene courtyard filled with naturallight,brightairy.Blendhistoryandmodernliving.Happinessawaits Team Right Side 504-233-2551 Compass•HistoricDistrict504-948-3011

3bedrooms, 4.5baths, first-floorprimary suitewith indoor pool access,spaciousden,livingand diningareas forentertaining. Twoconnectable courtyards,off-streetparking,storage,and whole-home generator complete this exceptionalpropertyinpeacefulprivate setting SissySullivan504-858-8140 RE/MAX N.O. Properties 504-866-7733

639Esplanade Avenue •FrenchQuarter/Marigny$1,850,000

StunningVictorian masterpieceatthe edge of theFrenchQuarter,isa rare find,overlooking RoyalStreet. This 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home offers over 4,000 sq ft of elegantliving&entertaining space. Perfectlymaintained &updated to thehighest standards,itprovidesthe convenienceofsecureoffstreet parking for2 cars.Thishomeisanincredible find at an unbeatable price. Elizabeth“Libbie”Reiss 504-813-1102 COMPASS•GardenDistrict504-891-6400

PROVIDED PHOTO Crash surveyshis domain from hisperch on the familysofa.

Stylishdecor and pets in thehome?

Let’sconsiderhow pets may affect howyou decorateyour home. Iamreferring to the usual domestic pet: adog or acat.(We will not concern ourselves with cohabitationwith strange, exotic and often illegalanimals.This maybeaddressed in afuture column or notatall!)

Ideally,webeginwith an easyto-clean base, starting with high-

Louis Aubert

performance fabrics, washable paintsurfaces andresilient flooring, while keepinginmind thegoal of apleasingaesthetic.

Yes, your home can be both attractiveand pet-friendly.

Choose the right fabrics

There are great outdoorgrade fabrics suitable for indoor upholstery Consider Perennials performance fabrics, available in a staggering array of colors and patterns

There are solids, florals, stripes, textures and ticking from which to choose the perfect selection for your home. Add interest by combining patterns and solids; for instance, use patterned or striped fabric for upholstery with contrast colored cording.

In one of my recent projects, a boxy, almost midcentury modern sofa was upholstered in a rich plum color with pond scum-green contrast cording. Contrasting floral throw pillows add additional interest to the room and are much appreciated by a small dachshund named RJ.

Tightly woven fabrics are best. Avoid loose weaves as they snag on claws and tend to trap fur

Slipcovers can be a great option. You might consider making duplicate covers for the most often-used furniture. With duplicate cushion covers, it’s an easy one-on and one-off on laundry day.

HOMEWORKWITHLOUIS

Antique rugs add lots of character to a room, and the somewhat faded and worn appearance will not be harmed when exposed to daily use in a pet household.

Dogs and cats take their cues from their human companions and love to lounge on sofas and chairs. A throw in a color compatible with the upholstery is a great addition. I have a dear friend who changes throws seasonally for Sophie, her cocker spaniel. A sofa with a wide, single seat cushion can

easily be wrapped with a small patterned quilt for a bohemian chic style.

What’s always underfoot?

Many people consider the color of their dog or cat when purchasing fabrics or flooring materials. Many years ago, a client with several cats chose

Sophie

spot, on a wide cushion. Cushions can be covered with throws or alternated to make cleaning easier

carpet as close as possible to the colors of his cats. He explained that he had learned from experience that cats shed faster than you can vacuum. While he claimed to vacuum infrequently, his home always looked good.

Caution! If you love the look of very dark-stained wood

floors, be aware that every hair will shout for attention and you will become either paranoid or oblivious to the appearance of your home. Yes, dark-stained floors can be quite striking, but approach with caution.

The traditional honey-colored antique pine floors with a stain sheen found in historic New Orleans homes always look great. The color is pleas-

ä See AUBERT, page 6

STAFF FILE PHOTO By SCOTT THRELKELD

PROVIDED PHOTO

rests in her favorite

ing, and it makes life with pets much easier

Rustic, textured or distressed finishes are also highly recommended as they tend to hide the nicks and scuffs that will invariably happen. It’s called life.

I have also found that a wellpainted floor is great for pets. Using a high-grade deck enamel, followed by one or two coats of a water-based satin-finish sealant, will result in a very durable floor that requires only occasional damp mopping.

I can personally attest that after about 15 years of near constant assault by miniature schnauzers, the floor still looks great.

Porcelain tiles that imitate stone, such as limestone, are a great choice.

The tiles vary in color and are a forgiving surface, excellent at hiding day-to-day dirt such as muddy paws. Consider a tiled rear entry that will make life easier for both the two-legged and four-legged members of the household.

Carpet adds character

Rugs in high-traffic areas such as hallways and stairs will reduce inevitable wear

It is also safer for the pet bounding down the stairs, especially as they age in place. Consider patterned rugs, as they are more forgiving, should a stubborn stain refuse to go completely away.

Antique rugs add lots of character to a room, and the somewhat faded and worn appearance will not be harmed when exposed to daily use in a pet household.

Check out auctions and consignment stores for vintage or antique rugs at prices that may occasionally surprise you. Recently, there was a very worn and very beautiful antique Aubusson carpet, about 6 by 14 feet, that sold at auction for about $400.

Small flowers in various

PROVIDED PHOTO

Golden retriever Brantley and his younger buddy, Hayes Ryan Baker, have fun by the pool. Photos of children with pets will be treasured for years to come. Take plenty!

colors were scattered across a predominantly dusty gold background. It would be beautiful set across an antique pine floor.

The wall and all

High-quality paints available today are both washable and scrubbable, especially when applied to wood.

Our Victorian predecessors recognized the value of beaded board.

Lower walls or entire rooms of varnished or painted beaded board will last and perform well forever (that is, if termites are kept at bay). The “back room” in the home of my grandparents had both walls and ceiling covered in mint-green beaded board that performed well for a family of nine children and later 18 grandchildren.

There are vinyl wall coverings that imitate linen and would be suitable for high-traffic areas where pets are more likely to rub against walls. The walls can look great and be the

ever-popular “wipeable.”

Plan ahead. Place a dedicated bed for daytime lounging near where you and other members of the household spend most of your time. Pets want to be part of the action or, at least, in the case of some action adjacent. While they may appear to be asleep, like Alexa, they hear everything.

Beds in various locations in the home allow our pets to be comfortable, even in the most formal rooms. There is a trend to tuck a sleeping nook into the end of the kitchen island, so your buddy can be near, but not underfoot. Dog washing stations are a popular addition when space and budget allow. Short of that, a good laundry sink allows you to stand while bathing a small dog. This is more comfortable for both you and the dog.

Family first

Several years ago, a neighbor acquired a beautiful yellow

INSIDEINFO

Plant sale, seminars set for northshore

The St. Tammany Master Gardener Association spring plant continues Saturday at the St. Tammany Parish Fairgrounds in Covington

The sale will feature more than 60 plant and garden art booths, food trucks, children’s activities and two days of seminars. Cooking demonstrations and educational exhibits will be included.

Presentations will include:

n Understanding understory plantings

n Louisiana Super Plants 2026

n Preventing plant diseases in home gardens

n Backyard citrus care

n Fertilizers and soil testing

n Gardening with roses

n Container gardening

Entry is $5 at the gate at 1301 N. Florida St. Visit stmastergardener.org.

BK House tablescape event celebrates style

Dining by Design will return to the historic BK House, 1113 Chartres St., at 5:30 p.m. May 17 with elaborate and imaginative dining and floral creations by more than a dozen locals. Cuisine will be provided Pigeon Catering and Events, plus libations and live music. The event raises funds to support the preservation and restoration of the

AUBERT

Continued from page 6

Labrador named Jack from a local breeder who insisted her dogs have an active role in family life.

While interviewing a prospective purchaser of a puppy, the lady explained that she had a new home with Brazilian cherry floors, so the dog would be confined to the rear porch and the laundry room.

The breeder explained, “My dogs are bred to be a member of the family, so considering your Brazilian cherry floor situation, might I suggest goldfish?”

While this may sound a bit harsh, pet lovers will understand that the breeder was very

with trombonist Fred Wesley from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday

Enjoy a community dinner featuring plant-based dishes and desserts, plus a visit with children’s book author Natalie Guess, who will read from “The Biggest, The Oldest and the Strongest All Eat Plants” and help kids in a hands-on food prep activity. Children will receive a copy of the book while supplies last.

Tickets start at $50 and kids eat free for the event at 7 Bamboo Road in New Orleans. Visit longuevue.com.

Orleans residents can get free wood chips

The city will be distributing free wood chips to Orleans Parish residents from 8 a.m. to noon every Saturday through May 30 at 1 Green Parade Lane.

n Staff will not be able to assist with loading.

For information, follow the department on Instagram or Facebook.

Volunteer projects abound at City Park

A variety of cleanup days and initiatives are on tap at City Park to improve and maintain the extensive urban green space. Those coming up include:

n City Park Kayak cleanup: 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday. Meet at the gravel launch at the intersection of Dueling Oaks Drive and Dreyfous Drive. Volunteers are sought to join City Park’s kayak krewe that will work with staff to remove litter from waterways with the use of personal kayaks.

French Quarter house’s art, textiles and ephemera.

Tickets start at $150. Visit bkhouse. org.

Longue Vue to host plant-powered dinner

Learn about the healing power of plants during Longue Vue House and Garden’s HAPPY* Meal Experience (*Healthy And Plant-Powered, Yay!)

kind and truly cared about her puppies.

I’ve had miniature schnauzers (a series of four, but only one at a time); two came by way of the Schnauzer Rescue of Louisiana. Almost everyone who has had a rescue dog will tell you that they are the best.

It’s as though they know they have been given a second chance, and they appreciate it All they want to do is please you and be at your side.

When we say goodbye

I once read that every pet was a heartbreak waiting to happen.

While the pain is real when we say goodbye, we do it again because of the sheer joy and companionship a dog or cat can provide. But what do we do when that time arrives?

The Department of Parks and Parkways, which generates the chips from routine tree-trimming operations, is continuing its efforts to divert green waste from local landfills and promote sustainable practices.

This initiative supports the city’s broader sustainability goals while providing a practical benefit to residents.

n Chips are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

n Residents must bring their own loading supplies, including shovels, gloves, bags, containers and any other necessary equipment.

Like many kids growing up in an old New Orleans neighborhood, I had a pet cemetery under my house for beloved goldfish, turtles and parakeets marked with popsicle-stick crosses (I had childhood allergies and could not have a pet with fur).

Which brings us to the portrait of my late miniature schnauzer Dusty. The gifted artist Linda Begg Lester was known for her portraits of Louisiana Supreme Court justices, prominent doctors and business executives. One day at her Metairie home, I noticed she was painting a racehorse. I asked if she also painted dogs.

She did, and thus there is a wonderful portrait of Dusty, in which Linda truly captured the

spirit of my little buddy

n Love The Boot Week: City Park Clean-up: 9 a.m. Saturday. Pan American Stadium, 194 Zachary Taylor Drive. Litter removal around the park.

n Litter Cleanup Krewe: 9 a.m. Tuesday. Volunteer Center, 1031 Harrison Ave. n Super Saturday: 9 a.m. Saturday, May 2. Pan American Stadium. Monthly community volunteering effort that includes a pruning project at Pan American Stadium.

Register for the programs and find out about what to bring at friendsofcitypark.volunteerhub.com.

Have a home and garden event coming up? Send it to events@ theadvocate.com.

Photographs are important and can be displayed with photos of other family members. Few photos are more pleasing than children with their pets. Make time to take a few photos; you will be happy you did.

Louis J. Aubert is a professional member of the American Society of Interior Designers and an avid preservationist. Some of his most visible New Orleans projects include making interior color selections for Gallier Hall, Trinity Episcopal Church and the Louisiana Supreme Court Royal Street Courthouse, and both interior and exterior selections for St. Stephen’s Basilica. Contact him at mrcolour@aol.com.

PROVIDED PHOTO By LOUIS AUBERT ‘Dusty,’ by artist Linda Begg Lester

FILE PHOTO By JEFF STROUT

The BK House in the French Quarter is hosting Dining by Design on May 17.

CHEF’S KISS

When thedream houseisall electric, here’s howtoget thegas appliances youwant

Marni Jameson AT HOME

Editor’snote: RememberMarni?Of course you do. She recently retired from writing the weekly column that ran in these pages but stillcontributes the occasionalmissive. This is one of them.

As we walked throughthe house that would eventually be ours, Imade alist of changes Iwanted.

Iwould change the electric cooktop to gas because the cavewoman in me likestosee the fire when Iburn my food. Iwould add agas linetothe wood-burning fireplace to keep the home fires burning withless effort, and Iwould convert the dryerhookup in the laundry room toaccommodate my gas dryer,soIwouldn’thave to buy an electric one.

Easy-peasylemon squeezy,the listing broker assured me. Only one problem: The community we were moving into did not have gas lines.

Registering the shock on my face (no gas, no home sale), my broker looked at the listing broker andtogether they said: “Propane.”

“Propane?”

“You can get the cooktop, fireplace and dryer all to run on propane,”they assured. “It’salmost the same as gas Youjust need to install apropane tank.” Just.

Liquid propane workslike gas but

comes from atank, like the tank on a propane-fueled barbecue, instead of a pipeline.

Before signing thehome purchase agreement, Icalled the local propane companyand talked to Tony Propane. (That is not his real last name, but that’show Ilist him in my contacts.)

Tony Propane met me at thehouse

and gave thepropertyaonce-over to determine where thepropane tank —the size and shape of amanatee could physically go.

They could install it above ground or below in thefront yard, he said, and then just run propane linestothe kitchen, fireplace and laundry room. Just.

Diggingin

Most professional chefs and serious home cooksprefer cookingwith gas. Gas provides instant heat, precise control and higher temperatures forsearing and charring. Fuel cost is cheaper,and if powergoes out, youcan still cook

Skeptical but satisfied, my husband and Ibought the house. Once we had keys, Igave Tony Propane asite survey,sohecould draw the above- and below-ground options.

Then Ijust needed the blessing of our homeowner’sassociation, anew

STAFF FILE

PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER

cooktop that will accept propane (many gas cooktops come with propane converters) and a $50 converter kit to switch my gas dryer to propane.

Just

Two weeks later, the HOA approved the underground (i.e., unseen) option.

The appliance store sent a frontman to the house to make sure the cooktop and hood vent we bought to go with it will fit in our space before they’re delivered.

“I sure hope it will work,” I told the front man. “If it won’t, I will have to move.” I’m only slightly kidding.

“Ninety-eight percent of the world’s chefs prefer gas cooktops,” he said. “The other 2% are sushi chefs.”

He winked, then added, “Your stove will fit. You will just need to have an electrician out to change the circuit from 220 to 110.”

Just.

I signed the (cough) $3,500 agreement to have the propane tank installed and hooked up.

That the price included $575 for the propane to fill the tank took away some of the sting.

Next, the company filed for a permit, which would three to five weeks, Tony Propane said. “Then we’ll get on the dig schedule, which will add two to three weeks.”

“All this time with no dryer?” I asked.

He just looked at me. His eyes said, “Duh.”

Inspection time

On dig day, two big strong men with tattoos bigger than I am dug a grave-sized hole in the front lawn, knocking out the fiber-optic internet cable for 48 hours.

Two weeks later, rough pipe work went in. We waited for a city inspection.

Next, the guys connected the cooktop, fireplace and dryer.

“Yay! Can I use them now?” I asked, raising up and down on my toes.

Nope. We needed a final inspection. Sigh. I’ve waited this long. I suppose I could wait a little longer to be sure I won’t blow up.

Finally, three months after we moved in, I was cooking with gas.

electricity, which activates a magnetic field that heats pans and food but leaves burners cool to the touch.

That first night, while chili simmered on the stove, I ran loads of laundry and put a fire in the fireplace.

Dinner cooking, a woodburning fire and fresh laundry never smelled so sweet. If you, like me, are a fan of gas appliances (and propane falls into this category), but you live in an area that doesn’t have gas lines, here’s what to consider

GEOGRAPHY: According to the Energy Information Administration, about 38% of U.S. households use gas cooktops. Most use electric.

Although more homes in places that have cold winters, like the Northeast and Midwest, have gas lines, which provide powerful, affordable heating, many still have elec-

tric cooktops.

The Southeast doesn’t have as many gas lines built in because winters are mild. The age and density of a community also play a role.

Gas lines are scarcer in places like Florida where development came later. Gas lines are also easier to run where homes are close.

Rural areas often need propane tanks.

COOKING STYLE: Gas stoves are popular among restaurant chefs and serious home cooks. Buyers of higher-end homes often expect them, experts say.

PROS AND CONS: Gas provides instant heat, precise control and higher temperatures for searing and charring. Fuel cost is cheaper, and if power

goes out, you can still cook.

The downside is gas cooktops are harder to clean and may negatively impact household air quality, though using a proper hood vent resolves that.

Electric cooktops provide more consistent heat, are easier to clean and offer better indoor air quality

Their downside is the lag time between turning on or adjusting the burner and achieving the desired heat level.

They also cost more to run, and their burners stay hot after the appliance is off.

INDUCTION COOKTOPS: Yes, I see you induction lovers out there waving your hands.

Induction cooktops are slowly gaining popularity

These run on electricity, which activates a magnetic field that

heats pans and food but leaves burners cool to the touch.

Fast, precise and clean, induction cooktops do not create gas emissions but do require a specific set of pots and pans.

TIME AND MONEY: If you like gas stoves and appliances, and your home isn’t set up for natural gas or propane, either learn to like electric or brace yourself for a big, costly project.

It is just not that simple.

Marni Jameson is a speaker, award-winning author of seven home and lifestyle books, including “Downsizing the Family Home” and “Rightsize Today for Your Best Life Tomorrow,” and a certified interior designer. To contact Marni, write to marni@marnijameson.com.

PROVIDED PHOTO By DREAMSTIME/TNS

GREENTHUMB

GARDEN TIPS

MULCH ADO: Don’t forget to mulch newly planted beds of shrubs or beddingplants witha 2-inch layerofleaves, pine straw, pine bark or other materials to control weeds, conserve moisture andkeep the soil from packingdown.

LET US SPRAY?: If youneedto sprayaninsecticide to control apest problem, sprayonly those plants that are affected or are likely to be affected to minimize the impact on nontarget organisms such as beneficial insects. Usethe least toxic insecticide that will do the job

COLLECT SEEDS: Save seeds from your cool-season annuals to plant again in your garden this fall.This time of year, collect seeds from sweet peas, violas, nicotiana, poppies, calendulas and cosmos. Make sure the seed pods or seed heads are mature before harvesting.

DEEP TROUBLE: If youintend to put out soil fill this spring, remember that shade trees will not tolerate more than 2 inches of fill placed over their root systems. If spreadingover alawn, mowthe grass before spreading the fill.Also, lawn grass will not grow through more than about 2inches of fill.Avoid spillwaysand as it is more likely to contain weeds.

Cat’sclawvine (Macfadyena unguis-cati) is the bright yellow flowering vine yousee poppingupall over NewOrleans in early spring.Itclimbs trees, fences and buildingsusing clawliketendrils. Originally planted as an ornamental,it spreads aggressively and is nowconsidered invasive. While the bloomsare abeautiful yellow,the vine canquickly overtakenativeplants and even smother trees.

WEEDING FRENZY

Allowing cat’sclaw andbushkiller to grow freely now will make it harder to stop them later

Ialways get lots of questions about controlling weedy vines in midto late summer.Bythen, vines have grown vigorously for months and oftenbecome major problems in the landscape. Don’twait! Nowisthe timetoaddress weedy vines. Allowing the vines

to grow unimpeded until later will only make it all that muchharder to deal with them.

Vines do not have to put any energy or resources into building strong stems to hold the plant upright, as most other

ä See WEEDING, page 12

Dan Gill GREEN THUMB

Calendula

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

Sun-loving flowersperfect fora bright hangingbasket

BY DANGILL

Contributing writer

I’m looking for plants to put in hanging baskets that will bloom all summer and provide lots of color.They will be in a location that gets sun for most of the day. What would you suggest? —Nancy Asunnyspot allows awide variety of options. Consider: lantana (particularly trailing types like Bandana Trailing Gold), trailing periwinkle or vinca (such as the Cora Cascade series or Mediterranean series —outstandingperformance and constant flowers), trailing angelonia (there are trailing types in the AngelMist series), ornamental sweet potato (many varieties withcolorful foliage), trailing sun tolerant coleus (such as Trailing Roseor GarnetRobe),trailingtorenia (such as the Summer Wave series or Catalina series), blue daze, purslane, narrow-leaf zinnia (Crystal series is usually available), Silver Fall dichondra (nice silver foliage)and scaevola.

Abasket may be planted with more than one type of plant. Ihaveagerberadaisy thatlooks sick. The leaves are turning grayish-white with apowderymaterial on them.What is this andwhat should Ido? —Charles

This is afungal disease called powdery mildew.Itisacommon problem in late spring when the weather is warm and dry.Gerbera daisies are especially prone to powdery mildew,but it will attack awide variety of plants including crape myrtles and roses.

Avariety of fungicideswill control powdery mildew.Contact-protectant fungicides such as potassium bicarbonates,sulfur fungicides and neem oil are

STAFF FILE PHOTO

By JOHN MCCUSKER

GREENTHUMB

WEEDING

Continued from page 10

plants do. They use structures or other plants for support to grow upright or they lie on the ground.

As a result, they are among the fastest-growing plants. That means vines can quickly create major problems and rapidly recover from control efforts.

I’ve seen cat’s claw vine nearly swallow up an abandoned building How many weeds do you know that can swallow a building?

Bush killer vine gets its com-

mon name due to its ability to rapidly grow over, cover and damage shrubs.

Don’t give up!

The worst situations with weedy vines occur when there is an extended period of lax maintenance.

This may happen in an out-ofsight area of your yard where you rarely go. You may purchase a home previously owned by someone who was unable or unwilling to keep up with the yard work. Vines that have had their way for years will not be easily controlled. They will fight you leaf and tendril until you seethe with frustration. Don’t give up.

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Really, “don’t give up” should be the rallying cry for anyone dealing with weedy vines. When controlling weedy vines, you must be prepared for a long, hard fight. This will require commitment Once you begin your control efforts, you have to be persistent and frequent in what you do over whatever period of time it takes to gain control over or eradicate the vines.

There is no single best herbicide or best technique for controlling weedy vines. Every situation is different, and gardeners often must use a variety of methods for best results. How you control weedy vines will be greatly influenced by the situation.

There are, however, some basic methods that can be utilized, and they are generally effective for eradicating weedy vines in landscapes if used persistently over time.

Cut them back, dig them out

Physical control involves cutting back, hand pulling and digging out.

Pulling or digging up vines is best done when the soil is moist, and the goal is to remove as much of the below-ground roots, bulbs, tubers or rhizomes as possible.

Done regularly, this is a great way to deal with occasional seedlings and light infestations.

This method may also include

PROVIDED

PHOTOS By LSU AGCENTER

The bush killer vine Cayratia (Cayratia japonica) dies back in winter but returns from underground rhizomes. It is common in the New Orleans area. Cat’s claw vine produces large tubers underground which allow it to survive control efforts.

cutting down and removing vines from buildings or fences to clean up a situation.

The roots and below-ground parts must then be dug up at that time.

You should never try to control weedy vines simply by cutting them back occasionally. That’s like jogging on a treadmill — lots of work but you don’t get anywhere.

Spray with herbicides

The second method is to carefully spray the foliage with a systemic herbicide.

This is only possible when the spray will not get on the foliage of desirable plants. If needed, nearby desirable plants can be covered with plastic sheets or plastic bags to protect them while you do the spraying.

Physical control: cut back and dig out roots and tubers

Be sure to spray enough to wet the foliage of the vine thoroughly but avoid excessive application and runoff into the ground. You may spray the vine intact, or cut it back, let it resprout and spray the new growth — depending on the situation.

Systemic herbicides are absorbed by the foliage and enter the plant’s circulatory system, which sends the material into the vines’ roots, killing them as well. Glyphosate (Eraser, Killzall, and other brands) or triclopyr (Brush-B-Gon, Brush Killer and other brands) are commonly recommended for weedy vine control. Herbicides that contain combination of dicamba (banvel) and 2,4-D also work well.

Once the vine dies, it may be removed.

Treat cut stems

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When larger established vines are growing up in trees or on buildings or intertwined in shrubs in the landscape, spraying the vine foliage is not practical.

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The potential for the herbicide spray to injure desirable trees and surrounding landscape plants in these situations is too high. Weedy vine control in sensitive areas can best be achieved by the cut vine method.

GREENTHUMB

ADVICE

Continued from page 11

effective in preventing powdery mildew or during early and mild infections.

For more severe infections, such as what your gerbera daisy is experiencing, systemic fungicides work best, such as myclobutanil (Immunox and other brands) and propiconazole (Ferti-lome Systemic II Liquid Fungicide and other brands). Make several applications following label directions.

Because this is just one plant, evaluate the value of the plant when deciding if to treat. You may decide purchasing a fungicide that costs more than the plant did is not economical.

When should cucumbers be harvested? I think it’s better to pick homegrown cucumbers when they are about picklesized. My wife thinks it’s better to let them grow to the size of cucumbers at the supermarket. Can you tell us the correct way to harvest cucumbers? — Jim

Well, this is a trick question. How large the cucumber should

As long as you don’t wait until they are ripe, cucumbers can be harvested at any point. Harvesting cucumbers young, at the recommended size based on variety, maintains quality while maximizing pounds produced.

be when you harvest it depends entirely on the type and variety of cucumber. Cucumbers har-

Just keep at it

Continued from page 12

Cut off the vine a few inches from the ground and immediately treat the fresh cut stump with undiluted triclopyr (such as Greenlight Cut Vine and Stump Killer, Brush Killer, Brush B Gon).

Applying the herbicide to the fresh cut is necessary to prevent the stump from resprouting.

You may have to crawl under a vine-infested shrub to do this. Once the stem is cut, the vine growing up the tree, telephone pole or shrub will die because it has no root system. The treated stump will die because the herbicide gets absorbed by the freshly cut surface and is translocated to the roots. This method is very effective and may be used any time of the year.

Getting weedy vines off your property will take many repeated efforts no matter what methods you use. Do not get discouraged if early efforts are

vested for gherkins are harvested when about 2 inches long. Pickling cucumber varieties

are generally harvested about 4 inches long. (Think of whole dill pickles in a jar.) Slicing cucum-

not as effective as you hoped they would be. Keep at it. If you make a major effort to get rid of a vine and then sit back and let it grow back before you try again, you will never make progress.

If you are trying to control a vine and don’t seem to be making any progress, it generally means you are not putting in the time and effort that is needed for effective control.

But if you are prompt, ag-

ber varieties may be harvested anywhere from 6 to 12 inches or more, depending on variety. So, the size when you harvest cucumbers should be guided by the variety and use.

That said, we harvest cucumbers in the immature stage, not when they are ripe (when they are ripe, they turn yellow, bitter and the seeds are firm). You really cannot harvest a cucumber too young. Young, small cucumbers are delicious. So, if someone wants to harvest cucumbers smaller than recommended for a variety, that is the gardener’s prerogative. But you sacrifice pounds of harvest by harvesting cucumbers small. Harvesting at the recommended size, based on the variety, maintains quality while maximizing pounds produced.

Dan Gill is a retired consumer horticulture specialist with the LSU AgCenter. He hosts the “Garden Show” on WWLAM Saturdays at 9 a.m. Email gardening questions to gnogardening@agcenter.lsu. edu.

gressive and frequent with your efforts, you will begin to see positive results.

You know you are doing a good job when controlling the vines becomes easier over time. Don’t give up.

STAFF PHOTO By LESLIE WESTBROOK

ABOVE: Where there was once stained and chipped linoleum, there is now hard tan Louisiana brick flooring When the kitchen was renovated in 1981 the skylight was installed to illuminate the space, which overlooks the lush rear garden and swimming pool through the covered screen porch just outside of the window

RIGHT: The gracious seating area on the screened porch that stretches across the back of the home was added as part of a 2001 renovation.

PHOTOS By JEFF STROUT

The Elizardi family has lived in this Old Metairie home since 1980.

COVER STORy

homeFO RE VE R

More than 45 years later, family’s

Old Metairie renovation still feels fresh

BY JYL BENSON Contributing writer

The one-story, single-family house was built in 1929 amid mostly farmland on a broad, deep lot typical of what is now the Old Metairie neighborhood. The development was spurred by a new electric streetcar, which ran down the high ridge alongside Bayou Metairie — a waterway that originated near present-day Kenner and ran eastward to connect with Bayou St. John.

While the house stood sentinel, the land around it was developing rapidly The bayou was filled in and paved over in the 1950s to widen the roadway. The primary remnants of Bayou Metairie are the lagoons in New Orleans City Park, particularly near the Peristyle and the Dueling Oaks. Other vestiges include the water feature known as “the lake” in Metairie Cemetery

When David and Jeanne Elizardi toured the house in 1980, there was really no reason for them to do so. They had a lovely home on Tolmas Drive, not far from where David Elizardi practiced as a cardiologist at Ochsner Hospital on Jefferson Highway But they visited the house anyway and decided to buy it.

ä See RENOVATION, page 16

David and Jeanne Elizardi relax on the back porch of the Old Metairie house they bought in 1980. They continue to love and celebrate the space every day.

The den was added in 1981 during the home’s first renovation. The painting behind the sofa is by David Elizardi.

RENOVATION

Continued from page 15

“It’s a dump. Are you sure you want to do this?” asked their Realtor. “Why?”

High interest, low style

In 1980, interest rates stood at 11.75%. Priced at $293,000 (quite high for the time), the 2,400-square-foot house had been on the market for a while.

It was painted a moldy shade of green. A rusty chain-link fence enclosed a rundown swimming pool in the rear yard, accessible from the house via a jalousie door at the back of the kitchen.

Instead of a doorknob, the jalousie door was opened and closed via a nail It opened onto a small porch where a washing machine and a dryer chugged away

The living and dining rooms at the front of the house were divided by a lattice wall. The living room opened into a barroom with knotty pine paneling illuminated by neon advertisements declaring Miller High Life “The Champagne of Beers.”

“The kitchen was just horrible, disgusting,” said Jeanne Elizardi, recalling its chipped, stained linoleum floors.

Like her husband, she is a native of New Orleans. They met as students at Fortier High School (now The Willow School’s upper campus) and became good friends

They lost touch; then, in 1970, they reconnected at the Tulane University bookstore, where she was working. He was a medical school student

They promptly broke off their existing relationships and were engaged within six months.

They moved to the Chicago area, where David Elizardi completed his medical residency and began his medical career, and Jeanne Elizardi worked in development at Northwestern University

They had returned to their hometown and were raising their children in the Tolmas Drive house when they stumbled upon the “dump” in Old Metairie.

‘I fell in love’

“It was hard to see what it could be, but I could,” said Jeanne Elizardi. “I fell in love with what I knew it could be.”

During the first of several renovations, Jimmy Lagarde, of Lagarde’s Kitchen and Bath, designed a kitchen that remains timeless, with only a few tweaks all these years later

It features natural dark cherry cabinets — once again, au courant — floors of old hard-tan Louisiana brick and a 12-by-4-foot seated island topped with Calcutta marble and a recessed cooktop.

At the same time, the barroom was closed off from the living room and transformed into a powder room and laundry area. The lattice wall was removed to reunite the living and dining areas.

A load-bearing wall at the

PHOTOS By JEFF STROUT

In 2021 the pool, built in the 1950s, was restored, the decking of Brazilian quartzite pavers was installed by Steve Diniz, and a stunning fountain was added to the deep, lush garden. The garden was designed by Mike McClung. In the years since, further enhancements to the garden have been made by Melinda Alfonso of Hillary Gardens, who is now responsible for the space.

In 2021 the small existing porch was extended and screened across the rear of the house, and a fireplace and grill were added at opposite ends of the porch.

When the Elizardis purchased their home, the living and dining rooms were divided by a lattice wall, which they quickly removed. The marble mantel on the left side of the dining room came from the former St. Charles Hotel.

northern edge of the kitchen was removed, and an I-beam was installed in the ceiling to distribute the load. A study and casual living and dining areas were added.

Storage and more

Twenty years later, in 2001, Jeanne Elizardi felt the family of five needed “just one more closet.”

Collaborating with architect Steve Chauvin, this led to a 17-foot addition to the eastern side of the house, creating a spacious primary bedroom with a spa bathroom en suite and his-and-hers walk-in closets.

The existing porch was extended and screened across the rear of the house, and a fireplace and grill were added at opposite ends of the porch

Additional access to the deep garden and swimming pool was added to the new primary suite.

The pool, built in the 1950s, was restored, the decking of Brazilian quartzite pavers was installed by Steve Diniz, and a stunning fountain was added to the deep, lush garden

The garden was designed by Mike McClung. In the years since, further enhancements to the garden have been made by Melinda Alfonso, of Hillary Gardens, who is now responsible for the space.

The Elizardis transformed a barroom with walls paneled with knotty pine adorned with neon beer signs into a quiet living room space for gathering. The painting behind the sofa is by celebrated artist Elemore Morgan Jr.

In 2001, Jeanne Elizardi decided the family of five needed ‘just one more closet.’ Collaborating with architect Steve Chauvin, this led to a 17-foot addition to the eastern side of the house, creating a spacious primary bedroom with a spalike en suite bathroom and his-and-hers walk-in closets. The existing porch was extended and screened across the rear of the house.

“Melinda is a godsend,”

Jeanne Elizardi said. “There is no way I could still do all of this without her She has made it fun again.”

Fifty years of family

Over the course of the couple’s almost 50 years in the house they have raised three children and now have four grandchildren who frequently occupy the basement.

David Elizardi started painting landscapes after attending classes at New Orleans Acad-

emy of Fine Arts in the early 1990s. He is now semi-retired from his work as a cardiologist at Ochsner Jeanne Elizardi left her career in development to raise her children and became heavily involved in civic and charitable endeavors associated with their schools.

She is a 23-year member of Shades of Praise, New Orleans’ Interracial Gospel Choir. The nondenominational choir travels the world promoting unity.

The fountain, which they secured through Alix Rico, has its own story.

“We thought we were getting the greatest deal,” said David Elizardi. “It was only 800 bucks! Then it cost $1,000 to have it delivered from the Port of New Orleans to our front porch. It cost $10,000 to install it. So not such a great deal after all.”

“As we were going through

The spalike bathroom was added in 2021. Architect Steve Chauvin designed the space. The floors are covered in French pavers. The counters are natural travertine.

all of that and the fountain was in pieces all over the yard, I said, ‘If we go through with this fountain, we are never moving,’” Jeanne Elizardi said.

“And we have not moved. We are still right here. I don’t think we will ever leave.”

Jyl Benson writes about homes and gardens. Email her at jylbenson@gmail.com.

ONEINAMILLION

Historic Quarter home with celebrity ties on the market for $1.875M

BY VICTOR ANDREWS Staff writer

Louisiana had been a part of the new United States for less than 30 years when the home at 1114 Burgundy St. was built. New Orleans, established more than a century earlier, had withstood fires and hurricanes and was thriving as a port city.

A slice of the city’s history, this four-bedroom, four-bath compound of a main house and two-story carriage house in the midst of the French Quarter’s residential section has more than 3,800 square feet of space, a quintessential courtyard with a pool and a price tag of $1.875 million.

The brick building also has a lustrous lineage, once being owned by Oscar, Golden Globe and Emmy winner Jessica Lange, the latter of which had been won for her role in the New Orleans-set “American Horror Story.”

The Vieux Carre domicile is a dreamy spot brimful of vintage charm, with updated elements for graceful living.

The front features four French doors with working shutters shaded by a quartet of crape myrtles. Typical of many residences in the neighborhood, a gate leads to a sidewalk running to entrances in the living room and kitchen off the main street.

Living spaces on the first floor of the main home include a library and a living room, each with double windows facing Burgundy Street. The library has a set of doors onto the side walkway and an impressive amount of shelves for literature. Decorative molding caps the ceilings and a rich wood floors anchor the space. A full bath is located off the space.

Through double doors is a living room, a mirrored space to the library with the exception of pocket doors that lead into the dining room.

A large fireplace anchors the dining room area, a linear room lit by a pair of high windows, that opens onto the vast kitchen area.

Bright and gleaming with marble counters, the kitchen has three sets of French

A La Cornue gas range is joined by an array of professional-grade appliances in the kitchen, dominated by a marble-topped island with seating for six.

ABOVE: Built around 1832, the home at 1114 Burgundy St sits in the residential sector of the French Quarter and has four bedrooms and baths.

RIGHT: A cast-iron tub with shower balances the exposed brick walls of the bath off the primary bedroom.

PROVIDED PHOTOS By MICHEAL BOEDIGHEIMER

A curved staircase leads to the upper floor of the main house, balancing the kitchen and sitting next to French doors that open onto the courtyard.

A heated saltwater pool holds center stage in the cloistered courtyard.

doors leading to the side and courtyard of the house. A central island is large enough for meal prep and seating for up to six. A La Cornue gas range holds a place of prominence among the stainless appliances and abundant storage. A curved staircase is almost an art piece in the space, leading to the second floor.

The primary suite upstairs is an array of spaces, including an office space overlooking the courtyard, the sleeping chamber with cedar closets and French doors overlooking the side, plus a bright additional den that could also serve as a

nursery or additional den.

The primary bath takes advantage of a dormer for a brightly lit vanity area. A cast iron soaking tub with shower is also a vintage contrast to the silver-toned fixtures.

A heated saltwater pool is the focal point of the highwalled courtyard, making it an oasis in the midst of the French Quarter Additional space is prime for outdoor dining and entertaining.

The two-story carriage house, which could double as an income-generating area, includes a large ground-floor room and a kitchen tucked be-

hind a half-wall. A full bath is also on this level.

Upstairs, another large room is the central space, but also opens to a smaller room. Another full bath is available and all the rooms open onto the

covered gallery

Combined, the carriage house makes for a unique New Orleans-style guest quarters or a prime post for a home office or business.

The home is listed by Shel-

ley Lawrence, of Ricci Real Estate, (504) 813-8466.

One in a Million is an occasional series featuring upscale homes for sale in the metro area

The library of the home is a book-lined haven for readers, with natural light from three different sets of French doors.

The dining room is just off the living room of the home through a pair of pocket doors. The room also opens onto the large kitchen.

INSIDESTORY

Gravel gardenscan cutwildfire andheatrisks

BY JESSICA DAMIANO Associated Press

Unrelenting heat, wind and lack of rain can createinhospitable conditions for plants, as well as humans. But asimple changeinmulch can help gardeners mitigate damage from those conditions, and wildfires, too.

That’sone reason so-called “gravel gardens” are growing in popularity

When airborne embers land on plant-based gardenmulches like pinebark, straw or wood chips, they ignite quickly and risk spreading fire. These organic mulches can eventrap heat and combust spontaneously

Many high-risk municipalities actually discourage or restrict organic mulches within a specified distance fromhomes and buildings. Andgardeners in fire-prone areas have long embraced covering baresoil with inorganic, aggregate materials, such as one-fourth-inch pea gravel, tumbled granite or brick chips.

Now,that strategy is becomingtrendy to other regions. In addition to addressing firesafety concerns, usingsuchaggregate 4inches deep in beds

and bordersalso helps prevent weedsfrom takingroot, improvesdrainageand reduces runoff, which helps cut back on waterwaste.

To be clear, organic mulches are thegoldstandard for many applications.Theynourish the soil as they decompose, improve moisture retention and also suppress weeds.Organic mulchisalso more beneficial to plants with high waterand nutrient needs outsidefire zones.

But in at-risk areas, gravel serves as an exceptional substitute, and its use around drought-tolerant, native plants elsewherefacilitatesdrainage, weedsuppression and moisture retention without needing regular replacement

Howtodoit

in the chosen bed. Trees,of course,cannot be easily removed, so leave them be.

Enrich the soil by spreading 2inches of compost or wellrottedmanurethroughout the bed, thenuse agarden forkto gently turn it in.

Define the bed withmetal, brick, stone or paver edging that’stall enough to keep the gravel in place.

In at-risk areas, gravel serves as an exceptional substitute, and its use around drought-tolerant, native plants elsewhere facilitates drainage, weed suppression and moisture retention without needing regular replacement.

Next, lay 4 inches of your chosen aggregate over the soil and, if trees are present, push the material severalinches away from the bottoms of their trunks.

Instead of applying gravel around existingplants, you shouldapply gravel first,and then plant through it Begin by removing weeds, roots and all, and carefully digging up any existing plants

Do not uselandscape fabric beneath the gravel; it won’t perform as you hope it will. Instead of preventing weeds, it will createheat pockets, restrictthe flow of water and oxygen to thesoil, trap carbon, and kill microbes,earthworms and beneficial insects.

Then it will slap you in the face and watch for your reactionasthe weeds you tried to block grow right through it. They’ll be near-impossible to remove, as their roots become intertwined with the fabric’s weave. Then, the weathered material will tear intoshreds and mock you as its edges poke through your once-lovely gravel garden.

Drought-tolerant,nativeplants

Select drought-tolerant, sun-loving perennials, ideally species native to your region. These plants also tendtothrive in nutrient-poor soil. Just ensure theyare suited to your horticultural zone.

Buy plantsin31/2-41/2-inch pots, as their rootswill be the perfect size for theapplication. Before bringing them to the planting area, scrape off the toplayer of soil from each

PROVIDED PHOTO Hamzah-Adam Desai,ofTone &Manner,created thisgravelgarden for the 2022 RHS Hampton CourtPalaceGarden FestivalinEast Molesey, Surrey,England. As high-risk municipalities discourage organic mulches in fire prone area, embracing inorganic, aggregate materials is becoming trendyinother areas.

plant to lower the risk of any present weed seeds sprouting, thenwater each potwell. Remove plants from their containersand transport them to the planting bedontrays or in abox to prevent loose soil from falling onto the gravel, whereairborne weed seeds may take root

To plant, remove asmall area of gravel equal to the width of the plant’s originalcontainer and 4inches deep to the soil surface. Then drop the moistened, soil-coveredroots into the hole. Replace the gravel, and repeat with your other plants, spacing them according to their expected mature sizes.

Waterthemwell

As they grow,those roots will reach and penetrate the soil beneath them.

Afew weeds might poke out during the first growing season; pull them immediately

Once your drought-tolerant, native plants are fully established, they will seldom, if ever, require supplemental watering. They won’tlikely need fertilizer,either,and the bed won’t require string-trimmer edging or regular weeding. And that’sawin for your garden, the environment and you.

It’s important that you water the plantsfrequently and regularly throughout their entire first season. This could be daily or even twice aday,depending on the climate and weather. Remember,the only water they will be able to access during their first year will come from the soil clinging to their roots, so it’simportant to keep it moist.

CLOSE TO JAZZ FEST

NEW ORLEANS

n TRANSFERS FOR APRIL 9-13

DISTRICT 1

BANKS ST. 3935-3937: $295,000, BSI Financial Services 4200 to Michelle V. Salgado.

GRAVIER ST. 515: $100, Crystal K. Buck and Scott A. Buck to Drew C. Sanner.

LAFAYETTE ST. 328: $100, Timothy G. Schafer to 328 Lafayette Street LLC.

S. CORTEZ ST. 528-30: $350,000, Latasha Bright Johnson and Sharon Mornay Bright to BGM Properties LLC.

S. GAYOSO ST. 709-715: $400,000, Anita Washington Crawford and William A. Crawford to Alonzo Jones II.

S. GENOIS ST. 745-47: $250,000, Tina Huynh to Cupcake Unique Properties LLC.

S. LOPEZ ST. 425-427: $515,000, Leah Mitchell Politz to Chiara Elisa Ritchie Williams Landrum and Louis Landrum III.

S. PETERS ST. 1107, UNIT 510: $419,000, Monica Ferraro Trujillo and Robert Trujillo to Delos E. Flint.

S. RAMPART ST. 1700: $760,000, Larry Wayne Drewett Jr. to Tres Lumina LLC.

TERPSICHORE ST. 933: $960,000, David Ella Realty LLC to Caroline D. Andrews and Edward L. Andrews.

DISTRICT 2

BELL ST. 2728: $465,000, Katie Gray to Ainsley Bishop and John P. Bishop.

BIENVILLE ST. 2518: donation, no value stated, Joseph E. Sincere to Karl Armin Sincere.

BOURBON ST. 1220-24: $275,000, Kenneth J. Schneider Living Trust to William Joseph Rouchell.

CANAL ST. 1201: $325,000, Lori Lazerwitz Solon to Benedetti Salko Family Trust.

CATINA ST. 5610: $255,000, R. Ray Orrill III to Deanna Darden Orrill.

DAUPHINE ST. 1220: $2,900,000, EITwo Ranch LLC to Cheston and Jill Larson Trust.

DAUPHINE ST. 611: $325,000, Teddy R. Murkerson to Brian D. Edwards and Mikiko Seale Edwards.

DAUPHINE ST. 618: $350,000, Nola Investment Solutions LLC to Brady & Brady Properties LLC.

DECATUR ST. 220: $395,000, Gaba Properties LLC to Sango Investments LLC.

REALESTATETRANSFERS

FLAMINGO ST. 79: $1,700,000, Ariana Hevia to Daniel Ross Miers and Rachelle Miers.

GENERAL DIAZ ST. 6021: $772,000, Lacey Langlois Discon to Nicole J. Deshotels Dawson.

IBERVILLE ST. 3023: $295,000, Lauren Nicole Nash to Craig Bergeron.

N. CLARK ST. 231: $609,000, James Joseph Fitzsimons III and Kelsey Elizabeth Monte Fitzsimons to Taylor Fontenot.

N. EASTERLYN CIRCLE 11437: donation, no value stated, Derek G. Gray and Ivette A. Gray to Graysrus revocable living trust.

N. LOPEZ ST. 920-22: $375,000, Stacey Childress Daigle to Jacob Ransom Watts.

ORLEANS ST. 916: $870,000, Charles Clifton Stewart 2005 revocable trust to Mark Anthony Caporaso and Stacey Noelle O’Malley Caporaso.

ST. PETER ST. 3117-3119: $145,000, 3117 19 St. Peter LLC to Daniel J. Gibbons and Stacey A. Gibbons. WEST END BLVD. 5859: $505,000, Ada Kwanbunbumpen Dinh and Huy Ngoc Dinh to Tran Huynh Family LLC

DISTRICT 3

ABALON COURT 437: $470,000, Fritz Construction LLC to Cristov Damien Dosev and Virginia Moore Dosev.

ANNETTE ST. 2427, 2427 1/2: $20,000, C-Hamp Rental Properties LLC to 2427 Annette Street LLC.

CAMOT ST. 2147: $265,000, Thalis Franklin Santos Trindade to Joshua David Johnston and Rachel Nina Flores Johnston.

CHATHAM DRIVE 5501: $320,000, Laura Lee Killeen and Robert V. Whittaker IV to Christine Sabathia McCourtney and Patrick

Morris Jeff Community

LEHIGH ST. 7625: $189,000, Erwin Onel Gomez Oxlaj and Iraida Marisela Mazariesgos Mejia Oxlaj to Aisha Domonique Carmouche.

LEON C SIMON DRIVE 1740, ST. ANTHONY ST. 6233: donation, no value stated, John Munsey Cox, Samuel W. Cox and Tawnia A. Blain to Patricia S. Cox.

MANDEVILLE ST. 2211-13: $195,000, Quannus Pittman Sr. to Tyler John Rosales.

MANDEVILLE ST. 2215: $85,000, Platinum Equity Investments LLC to Housing Heroes Holdings LLC.

MARIGNY ST. 1834-36: $215,000, Cerise Brown Joiner and Wardell Nelson Joiner Sr. to Jada Regjon Carter.

Timothy McCourtney

CONGRESS DRIVE 4953: $25,500, Ruoli Wang Su and Yang Su to Next Level Development LLC.

CRESCENT DRIVE 1508: $375,000, Andrew Bergeron Jr. and Sarah Jones Bergeron to Alexis Marie Creighton.

DAUPHINE ST. 1903: $970,000, Neal M. Manalla to Jennifer Neil Cousin.

DEERS ST. 3013: $54,000, Rebecca Preyan Torrence and Robert Torrence Sr. to Clint Spearow.

DUPLESSIS ST. 4417: $205,000, Companyhousex LLC to Felecia Crier and Kenneth Crier.

EASTERN ST. 5109: $25,000, PNC Bank National Association to Secretary of Veterans Affairs.

ELAINE ST. 52389, 52390, MIDLOTHAN ST. 52409: $16,000, Succession of Alvin Peter Burrell, Clara Burrell, Eric C. Burrell, Joan Armand Russell Earls, Morris Burrell and Rhowena Elizabeth Burrell to Richard Conklin Shew.

FRANCE ST. 1119: $345,000, Cynthia J. Hogan to Reid Van Atta.

FRANKLIN AVE. 621: $550,000, David B. Belk and Stephanie Y. Choy Belk to Matthew Howard Purser and Tracy L. Purser.

GALLIER ST. 2330: $14,500, Brandon Ebanks to Thomas Family Estates LLC.

GALLIER ST. 2330: $30,000, Thomas Famiy Estate LLC to Bayou Rentals LLC.

GENTILLY ROAD 8761: $20,000, ICLP19 LLC to Gutters Tech Inc.

LAPEYROUSE ST. 2112: $20,000, Brandon G. Devezin and Tyrone G. Devezin to Twin Realty Solutions LLC.

LAPEYROUSE ST. 2112: $40,000, Twin Realty Solutions LLC to Thomas Jones Himel.

LAW ST. 3240: $10, Morris Jeff Community School to Friends of

NIGHTHART ST. 4921: $65,000, Johnell M. Gibson, Karen M. Woods, Kimothy Woods, Kirk Anthony Woods and Vadell Lynn Lagarde Price to Benjamin Nhat Dong Tran.

N. CLAIBORNE AVE. 3129-31: $267,150, James Richard Guy Jr. and Joshua Lee Richardson to Wilbur J. Parris.

N. EASTERLYN CIRCLE 11437: donation, no value stated, Derek G. Gray and Ivette A. Gray to Graysrus revocable living trust. N. ROCHEBLAVE ST. 2641-43: $185,000, Joseph A. Dillard to Herbert H. Antoine and Robin M. Samuel Antoine.

ORIOLE ST. 2237: $344,000, Joseph Adrian Lecour and Mary Toves Lecour to Calvin Joseph Aguillard and Felicia Brown Aguillard.

MARAIS ST. 6019: $9,000, Safiyyullah Yusuf to Gjg Construction LLC.

ä See ORLEANS, page 22

REALESTATETRANSFERS

ORLEANS

Continued frompage21

PRENTISS AVE. 1349: $475,000, Bradley Christopher Boyd and Maria Barry Boyd to Katie FergusonGray.

RIVIERA AVE. 1470: $262,500, Nancy Gail Bragg to AileenMiller.

ST.FERDINAND ST.3647-3649: $150,000, Gaynell Lotten Cola to Merquiseded ReynosoJimenez.

SPAIN ST.2025: donation, no value stated, Ronald Roth Jr. to Maynell Roth

ST.BERNARD AVE. 4527: $190,000, David A. MacAulaytoKase Holdings LLC.

ST.MAURICE AVE. 2404: no value stated, Jacquelyn Brownto Shawn McElveen.

ST.ROCH AVE. 4739: $300,000, Christine G. Sabathia McCourtney to Gail D. Sabathia, Kenneth Michael Sabathia andRyanM. Sabathia.

VIRGILIAN ST.6700: $147,000, Tonya J. Cojoe to Danielle Scott and LeonardScott.

WAVEDRIVE 7840: $105,000, Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. to Lisa R. Carter andOscar L. Carter Jr.

WINTHROP PLACE105: $318,000, Thuong Hai Vo to Cheryl Lewis Lagarde and Gerald LagardeJr.

DISTRICT 4

FOURTH ST.1133: $1,754,000, Jane Hatcher Rasi and Marco Rasi to Elizabeth WillsCarrol andMatthew Carroll.

LOYOLA AVE. 2333-35: $112,400, Saory Thach, Su Q. Nguyen and Trang Thuy TruongtoCharles

Neuman.

PHILIPST. 1120: $675,000, Christopher A. Skopetos and Elaine ChoySkopetostoBartholomew E. Weldon revocable trust.

PLEASANTST. 918: $511,000, Calvin Wade Millerand Virginia Legier Alpaugh Miller to Alexander AnthonyNunez and Georgia LouiseTrist.

ST.ANDREW ST.1532: $195,000, Benjamin RobertAtherholt and Jaren Philleo Atherholt to John Jude Northcutt andMargaret ClareJackson Northcutt.

ST.CHARLES AVE. 2100: $156,000, Brad A. Adams andGrayson revocable trustto Catherine Lee Smith and Stuart H. SmithIII.

WASHINGTONAVE. 3214-3216:

$106,000,5116 ClaraLLC and Gulf CoastBankand TrusttoDenk Properties LLC.

DISTRICT 5

CANAL ST.3044, CARVER ST.3044:

$71,879, BrittnyL.Charles, Liroy CharlesSr., Muchell Alexander Charles,RonekaN.Conley, Tameacia Pounds and Toni A. CharlestoCarverStreet Investment Group LLC.

GLACIER COURT10: $475,000, Kenneth W. Malone and Renee Lynn NorrellMalonetoKelly Osullivan Anzaloneand Kenneth LawrenceAnzalone.

HOMERST. 324: $40,000, Renata Janell Casimier Wilson to 328 HomerLLC.

KENT DRIVE 2941: $180,000, R&I Investments LLCtoKendraMarie Bellizan.

OLIVIER ST.531: $525,000, Deidre CarroueeGolden and RichardJ. Golden Jr. to Jacob A. Goughnour and Lisa Michelle Peterson.

SHIRLEY DRIVE 1509: $45,000,

Gwendolyn SimmonsDaniels to 1509 ShirleyDrive LLC.

SHIRLEY DRIVE 1513: $140,000, Brenda Thomas Rankins, Dorian M. Thomas, Frances Thomas Lee, Hendrick Thomas, Henrietta Thomas Jones, Janet Eloise Thomas Brooks, KenyaThomas, Ronnie LeeThomas and Wilbert Thomas to Gwendolyn Daniels.

SOCRATES ST.512-514, TECHE ST. 1236-1238: donation, no value stated, Ralph Wayne Bush to Wayne Bush.

WAGNER ST.831: $56,000, Sybil Williams to LeonardFamily Investments LLC.

DISTRICT 6

AMELIA ST.2909: $360,000, Fred K. Campbell Jr. and Sandra Rowland CampbelltoAmanda Marie Laliberte.

BARONNE ST.3318-20: $115,000, EdwardJohnson, Joseph Johnson III and Ursula Johnson Murdaugh to Marengo Investments LLC.

CLARA ST.4119: $400,000, AlexandraJackson Walkenhorst and William Frances V. Walkenhorst to RichardDoggett.

CONSTANCE ST.4930-4932: $715,000, Jordan Angelle Hickey Follis and Matthew ArronFollis to AmyElizabeth Roberts and RichardJ.Roberts Jr.

DANTE ST.2238-40: $525,000, Carol A. Kennedy,Kali Burke Kennedy and Patrick Rowan Kennedy to Kaitlyn PaigePoe and ParisFordFallo.

DRYADES ST.4617-19: $745,000, Colin Jackson and Jennifer Jackson to DanielPaulson and Reina Evans Paulson.

JEFFERSON AVE. 2100: $1,150,000, FuweiZhang Cao and Yusong Cao to Amanda Lowell Burns and

Brian F. Burns.

JEFFERSON AVE. 726: $100, John Walter JoycetoAmy Breen Johnson and Todd Johnson.

JENA ST.1502: $815,000, Charlotte Livingston Piotrowski to Paul Teall and RebeccaRoseDrevers Teall.

LAUREL ST.6301: $1,405,000, Charlotte Sapir andJohn Sapir to Carter Santos and Joni Santos Living Trust.

LOUISIANA AVE. 2207: $970,000, 2207 Louisiana City LLCtoEmily Shawkat Gallowayand Philip Galloway.

LOUISIANA AVE. PARKWAY 3111: $287,500, Robert C. MartintoBMS Investments LLC.

NAPOLEON AVE. 1208-10-12-14:

$378,000, Cynthia ReitzStrohmeyer and Jon F. Strohmeyerto Brenda Aschim Kleemeyer and RichardC.Layne.

OCTAVIA ST.4019-21: $295,000, LisaWaddell Bass and Steven DavisBass to Novitas LLC.

S. GENOIS ST.1130-1132: $220,000, Snipes Hartness Properties LLC to Natalie Anne MarieFinchis and Thomas B. Finchis.

S. ROBERTSON ST.4524-26: $255,000, Olivam LLCtoArchie DavidArgo, Emily Argo Martin and Nathan LewisMartin.

S. ROBERTSON ST.5815: $385,000, Andrew G. ClarkIVand Christian Lloyd ClarktoAlexDavid Oney.

STATEST. 2014: $1,400,000, Claytor L. Brooksand Erica Capshaw BrookstoJessica Reed Ku and TimothyKu.

STATEST. 2323: $580,000, Charlotte Finley Viguerie to Edie M. Cagnolatti.

UPPERLINE ST.818: $957,760, Nola Fair Cabin LLCtoSarah Sharma.

VINCENNES PLACE3425: $432,500,

Candice Leigh Marti Clark and James Dennis Clark to Igor Borojevic.

WILLOW ST.3721-3723: $125,000, Longbridge Financial LLCtoVictory Ko LLC.

DISTRICT 7

BELFAST ST.8714: donation, no value stated, RenataSouza Reis Moreira to Cleber Oliveira Moreira

CHEROKEE ST.625: $820,000, Adam Benjamin Katz to Paul LeonardKatz.

CHEROKEE ST.625: $885,000, Paul LeonardKatz to Meaghan McMahon Bankand Michael Perry Bank.

COLAPISSAST. 9226: $40,000, Kim Patrice BohnesDepenis,Michael Joseph Bohnesand RobertEmmittBohnesIII to Miskut Enterprises LLC.

DUBLIN ST.2820: donation, no value stated, GilbertMoses Jefferson and Sophia M. Hale RabinovitzJeffersontoDavid M. Rabinovitzand JordeneHale Rabinovitz.

EAGLE ST.1928: $40,000, Debra Ann Cosey Muskwe and Madelyn MarieCosey Sanchez to Lott InvestmentGroup LLCand Marengo Investments LLC.

EAGLE ST.2501: $315,500, FigBoss Inc. to 2501 Eagle Street Trust.

EVELYN COURT 5694: $662,000, Calvin J. Ferran Estate and Frances Ferran testamentarytrust to Cynthia PereiraManuel and Powlin Viswas Manuel.

GENERAL OGDEN ST.1532: donation, no value stated, IsabellIna 2004 TrusttoDarlene Ina.

HAMILTONST. 3101: $48,000, Katrina Proby James and Terrance A. James to EqualityHome Buyers LLC.

HAMILTONST. 3101: $65,000, EqualityHome Buyers LLCtoJoel Antonio Ochoa Santos.

JEANNETTE ST.8731: donation, no value stated, Howard Woodard to Naicia J. McAdoo.

ST.CHARLESAVE.8000: $245,000, XecDirect LLCtoKristina Marie Stoneand Steven Matthew Stone.

STAFFORD PLACE 420, 422: $735,000, Cherisse Amedee Hoffman and Raymond Gerard Hoffman III to Erica Severson and LindaLucas.

W. KENILWORTHST. 238: $404,000, Stephen Joseph Calogero to Kayla E. Griese Merrelland Patrick C. Merrell.

WILLOW ST.8825-27: $105,000, JoyceBonitaWoolridge Jackson and Snookie Jackson to AW &DG Holdings LLC.

REALESTATETRANSFERS

EAST JEFFERSON

n TRANSFERS FOR APRIL 11-16 HARAHAN

GORDON AVE. 464: Shelly M. Pritchett to Gabrielle L. Fontenelle, $459,000.

OK AVE. 17: Krail Katherine Living Trust to Taylor Curtis, $300,000.

JEFFERSON

BROWN ST. 548: Emily Rogers to Edward Scott, $104,770.

CAROL DRIVE 609: Mary L. Fryant to Elizabeth D. Glee, $190,000.

KENNER

E. LOYOLA DRIVE 515: Alexandria D. Kiser to N. Brownell Vaughan, $224,500.

GERRY DRIVE 703: Alicia O Throckmorton to Rhina O. Vasquez, $43,000.

JOHNS HOPKINS DRIVE 211: AMA Investment Group LLC to Crystals RH LLC, $105,000.

LAKE TRAIL DRIVE 3505: Bradley J. Fitzhenry to Nicole P.R. Tusa, $360,000.

MASSACHUSETTS AVE. 3108: Dale W. Ramsey to Anh D. Huynh, $260,000.

RONSON DRIVE 701: Dilcia Vallejo

WEST JEFFERSON

n TRANSFERS FOR APRIL 11-16 AVONDALE

RETREAT DRIVE 3725: DSLD LLC to Alexia L. Jones, $285,389.

RINGROSE COURT 3733: DSLD LLC to Meltris L. Smith Sr., $281,395.

VALENTINE DRIVE 176: Sheila Angelle to Nathan Angelle, donation, no value stated.

YVONNE DRIVE 164: Nancy Majorie to Julie V Orgeron, $139,500.

GRAND ISLE

POMPANO LANE 119: Erica N.H. Hynes to Brenda F. Landry, $80,000.

GRETNA

BROOKMEADE DRIVE 560: Michael Preen to Seven Hundred Seven Grefer Street LLC, $115,000.

DRAKE LANE 1425: Steven M. III Green to Michael E. Ebong, $282,000.

FIFTH ST. 18: Allied Mechanical

Breakdown Insurance Inc. to Gretna City of, $1,615,000.

to Bradley M. Kruebbe, $250,000.

THIRD ST. 313: Scott J. Atwood to Chatelain 3rd Street Property LLC, $240,000

TULANE DRIVE 3733: Kenneth Firmin to Vito J. Sparacino, $235,000.

WEST ESPLANADE AVE. 124: Elizabeth P. Thorson to Mary F. Bailey, $370,000.

METAIRIE

45TH ST. 3231: Planet Home Lending LLC to Sushma G. Saini, $211,700.

46TH ST. 3418: Michael T. Caracci to Victor K. Caracci, donation, no value stated.

APPLE ST. 1409: Quinlivan Homes LLC to Nhi R. Ta, $599,000.

ARLINGTON DRIVE 220: LHC Builders LLC to Gregory Troyer, $2,880,000.

AVE. B 2124: Roberta L. Kitchen to Joan B. Kitchen, donation, no value stated.

BARNETT ST. 4700: Arthur M. Leto to Jennie M. Kelly, $280,000.

BLANKE ST. 6205: T Tay to Katherine P. Fabian, $339,000.

BROCKENBRAUGH COURT 546: Stacey L.F. Maghan to M Capella, $600,000.

CARROLLTON AVE. 130: Wayne A. Matthew to Heidi E. Anderson, $410,000.

CASWELL LANE 2508-10: Linda T.L.

FIRST ST. 504: Clara M. Manale to Jeanne Duhe, $570,000.

FIRST ST. 504: Jeanne S. Duhe to Sandra M. Gaudin, $550,000.

OXFORD PLACE U106 2425: Juan C. Varela to Jennica M. Griffin, $85,000.

WILLOWBROOK DRIVE 557: Wilson E. Acevedo to Canaan LLC, $116,550.

HARVEY

DOGWOOD DRIVE 1424: Mary P. Bernos to Stephen H. White, donation, no value stated.

EASTVIEW DRIVE 3877: Sabina Joseph to Thomas Joseph, donation, no value stated.

LAC BIENVILLE DRIVE 4101: Starlit Spots LLC to Starlit Spots LLC, $300,000.

LAKE SUPERIOR DRIVE 1825: Robert Preston to Nadeen Abdalla, $345,000.

MAPLE AVE. 543: Josephine M. Russo to Sang Nguyen, $65,000. TIMBERS DRIVE 2316: Donna M. Griffin to Donna M.M. Walker, donation, no value stated.

MARRERO

19TH ST. 6605: Alexes C.W. Lasalle

Nguyen to Brian Daniel, $339,000.

DORRINGTON BLVD. 108: Miller Building Co. LLC to Frazierdog Properties II LLC, $2,292,000.

EDENBORN AVE. 1808: Amy L.C. Smith to Ann C. Kropog, donation, no value stated.

ELMEER AVE. 825: Leah B. Robarts to Deana S. Morise, $375,000.

FLAMINGO ST. 4423: Jocelyn M.S Trinidad to JF Chen Rental LLC, $110,000.

FOLSE DRIVE 5113: L.W. Farrington to Khoobehi Properties LLC, $580,000.

FRANKEL AVE. 1317: Allen A. Dyess to Cheryl A. Drake, $290,000.

GARY MIKEL AVE. 4528: Troy G. Broussard to Jennifer M. Schmidt, $427,000.

HARING ROAD 2417: Maria D.H. Euceda to Amber Dang, $758,800.

HESPER AVE. 314: Raymond M. Massett to Shark Investments LLC, $400,000.

JAMES DRIVE 4001: Sarpy Development LLC to Christopher Lopinto, $415,202.

LAKE AVE. 405: Robert J. Facio to Faith C. Patches, $262,500.

LAKE TRAIL DRIVE 3205: Rick M. Decedue to Grecia D. Castro, $339,000.

LENORA ST. 4313: Patricia S Virgadamo to Luis L.L. Merlo,

to Kai L. Wells, $227,500.

AMES BLVD. 1518: Montrez D Leatherwood to Keshon Paul, $129,531.

AVE. C 1514: Richard L. Knuppel to Hugh K. White, $241,900.

DIMARCO DRIVE 1128: Carlos R. II Prieto to Devante I Benson, $350,000.

VICTORIAN DRIVE 6113: Marribell M. Thiel to Michael Thiel, donation, no value stated.

TERRYTOWN

BRUCE AVE. 423: Mcdonald Properties LLC to Ana Alvarez, $200,000.

HOLYOKE PLACE 841: Mary P Daly to Brian G. Dahms, donation, no value stated.

MATADOR DRIVE 868: Thomas C. Fanning Jr. to Tammy Dupont, donation, no value stated.

WESTWEGO

AVE. G 546: Jason P. Creppel to Megan M. Killey, $190,340.

KENNY DRIVE 1329: Ebony R. Stamps to Truong Nguyen, $157,000.

$300,000.

LORAINE ST. 6121: Pablo Gutierrez to Advanced Elite Builders LLC, $120,000.

MARTIN BEHRMAN WALK 960: Jinbao Zhu to Lihua W. Zhu, donation, no value stated.

NORTH HULLEN ST. 3719: Sandra M. Gaudin to Mary C. Coulon, $605,000.

OLD METAIRIE PLACE 1004: Ten O. Four Old Metairie Place LLC to Zenel Doucet, $397,000.

PASADENA AVE. 1409: Joseph P. Tumminello to Danielle R. Dougherty, $410,000.

PURDUE DRIVE 3805: Sayda N. Flores to Yoselin M. Muerto, $313,000.

SYCAMORE DRIVE 105: Gayle E. Entringer to J Riffle, $1,500,000.

TAFT PARK 3501: George III Sladovich to David Santanello, $353,000.

TRANSCONTINENTAL DRIVE 1808: Edward F. Jemison Jr. to Michael Huguet, $330,000.

UTICA AVE. 4713: Coe Investments LLC to Iuec Local 1.6., $623,000.

VELMA ST. 1516: Chloe Diaz to Leslie A.H. Milota, $499,000.

VETERANS BLVD. U49 6901: Denise T. Chaix to Bertucci Investment Group LLC, $30,000.

WADE DRIVE 4512: Denise D. Kessling to Quinlivan Homes LLC, $275,000.

YALE ST. 4417: Teresa Y.S. Mirpuri to Helen Phung, $155,000.

RIVER RIDGE

HAZEL DRIVE 121: Andrew C. Wilson to Emily H. Hymel, $350,000.

LEVEE VIEW DRIVE 145: Shirley C. Aguzin to Nathan T. Kelley, $160,000.

REALESTATETRANSFERS

ST. TAMMANy

n TRANSFERS FOR MARCH 30 TO APRIL 3

ABITA SPRINGS

CHINAWOOD DRIVE 329: Clayton J. Dutruch, Anthony R. Dutruch and Sandra K. Dutruch to Glover Construction LLC, $110,000.

DANA AVE. 304: William J. Noonan III and Karen L. Noonan to Dennis Kroger, $332,000.

DUNDEE LOOP 3064: Sharon M. Gauthreaux to Kyle Burke and Abby Sonnier, $208,500

LIONEL COURT 300: Nachem LLC to Calvin R. Shaw, $245,000

NEAR ABITA SPRINGS, PORTION OF GROUND: Danny S. Sinclair Jr. to Pellco 7 LLC, $292,500.

NEAR ABITA SPRINGS, PORTION OF GROUND: Richaerd G. Smith to Daniel S. Sinclair Jr., $335,800.

PAR STREET, LOT 8: Donald V. Bourgeois and Doris V. Bourgeois to Kayden M. Roussel, $8,000.

YVONNE AVE. 202: Roy L. Serpas Sr. Estate to Christopher B. Beauvais and Patricia C. Beauvais, $170,000.

COVINGTON

19TH AVE. 1020: Joelle Hoffman Lancaster to GSM Real Estate LLC, $272,000.

ALPINE VILLAGE ESTATES, LOT

22B: Eric Hager and Katherine O. Hager to Ronald Martin and Sophie Caroline H. Bower, $332,000. AVE. PALAIS ROYAL 305: Succession of Alton E. Ridge, Kevin M. Ridge, Jeffrey P. Ridge and others to Robert Ratts, $342,000.

BEECH DRIVE 2: Patrick K. Daigle II to Michael A. Moore and Chelsea M. Moore, $458,000.

BELLE TERRE DRIVE 195: Succession of Henry F Beck and Daisy L. Beck to Noel & Kerr Properties LLC, $300,000.

CALDEN COURT 19713: DSLD Homes LLC to Carey Zawada, $304,381.

CAROL LANE 75161: Susan N. Jones to John B. Pendergrast, $70,000.

CHERRY LAUREL DRIVE 126: Scott P. Oliphant to Frederic Amman and Ashley Amman, $583,000.

CHRETIEN POINT AVE. 801: Kenna L. Rigaud and Donald Rigaud Jr. to Brian Estep and Stacey Estep, $1,135,000.

COUNTRY CLUB DRIVE 171: Margaret R. Dessauer Estate to Scott M. Cheatwood and Allison P. Cheatwood, $420,000.

CROSSVINE DRIVE 12773: Tammany North Properties LLC to

Daniel J. Rockwell and Grace Rockwell, $180,000.

CUSACHS DRIVE 18280: CDC Management LLC to David B. Fegurgur and Savannah M. Scott Fegurgur, $280,000.

DIVISION OF ST. JOHN SUBDIVISION, LOT 15, SQUARE 14: Gregory M. Verges to City of Covington, $425,000.

DIVISION OF ST. JOHN SUBDIVISION, PORTION OF GROUND: Gregory M. Verges to City of Covington, $400,000.

E. 32ND AVE. 224: Salvatore Tranchina Jr. testamentary trust to Ivan Milicevic, $90,000.

E. BOSTON ST. 832, UNIT 6: CSE Property Management LLC to Stork Maternity Consulting LLC, $355,000.

EMERALD FOREST BLVD. 350, UNIT 24103, PARKING SPACE 97: Richard C. Maia and Lisa D. Maia to Talbot J. Rodrigue Jr. and Deborah P. Rodrigue, $110,000.

EMERALD OAKS DRIVE 181, UNIT 61: Carey P. Zawada to Matthew S. Bertucci, $249,500.

HARDY DRIVE 1159: Richard B. Hart and Elizabeth H. Hart to Jeffrey A. Smith and Gwendolyn K. Smith, $1,280,000.

HICKORY DRIVE 24: Richard M. Courtney to Northshore Family Homes LLC, $135,000.

HOLLY LANE 74403: Antonio J. Waring III and Anne T. Waring to Elizabeth D. Waring and Phyllis D. Waring, $400,000.

LA. 21 77249: Stephen W. Martins and Jamie B. Martins to Henry Smith Jr. and Meghan Smith, $95,000.

LA BRANCHE PLACE 448: Highland Homes Inc. to William D. Stiles Jr. and Cynthia T. Stiles, $704,565.

LAKE RAMSEY SUBDIVISION, PHASE 4A, LOTS 147, 173-178: First Horizon Inc. to DSLD Homes LLC, $315,000.

MANOR LANE 832: Albert C. Auxilien Jr. and Kim L. Auxilien to Jeffery Giambelluca and Heather Giambelluca, $660,000.

MAPLE RIDGE WAY 119: Ana Vidal Perez de la Mesa to Mark E. Scherer and Shanna P. Duhe, $975,000

MARK DRIVE 312: Robert L. Dixon and Doris E. Meyers Dixon to Cassidy Carrick, $302,000.

MILITARY ROAD 73583: Jason F Nicosia to Laura B. Rust, Susan R. Bernard and Lester J. Bernard Jr., $320,000.

MILLIKENS BEND 668: Andrew D. Sharp and Jarred C. Sharp to Jason E. Rosendal and Katelyn M. St. Germain Rosendal, $969,000.

NEAR COVINGTON, PORTION

OF GROUND: HD Capital LLC to Future Property Investments LLC, $16,000.

NORTH DRIVE 121: Jenee L. Donaldson, Joshua M. Donaldson and Sarah A. Donaldson to Alan R. Sweet and Colleen T. Sweet, $462,000.

PENN COURT 413: Lan Thi Nguyen to Charlotte H. Kelly, $255,000.

RIVER ROAD ACRES SUBDIVISION, PORTION OF GROUND: Succession of Van D. Jenkins Sr. to Blake Wolf and Ashley Wolf, $265,000.

ROBINHOOD ROAD 114: Steven M. Swanson and Rochelle A. Swanson to Blaze Chaus LLC, $221,000.

S. ORCHARD LANE 231: Patrick B. Morris and Steffi L. Pugh to Denise D. Sutherland, $330,000.

SHADOW BEND DRIVE 21413:

DSLD Homes LLC to Connor Campo and Karina Campo, $326,710.

SIXTH ST. 70105: Alain S. Lagarrigue to Oscar A. Orellana Velez and Caroll M. Orellana Velez, $164,000.

ST. JOHN CIRCLE 104: Secretary of Veterans Affairs to Patsie DeHuff, $212,000.

ST. JOSEPH ST. 77405: Joseph D Long to Jordan Berteau and Lane Berteau, $333,000.

TAMMANY HILLS SUBDIVISION, LOT 31A, SQUARE 65: Max E. Dupuy to Carol M. Interiano, $40,000.

TERRA BELLA SUBDIVISION, LOT 719B: Terra Bella Group LLC to Hagan & Banks Development LLC, $387,000.

WELLS ROAD, PORTION OF GROUND: Candy Welch to Thomas B. Smiley and Beverly Smiley, $68,000.

WOODCREST DRIVE 118: Kevin L. Dupuy Jr. and Kristen A. Dupuy to Clark Hershey and Angela Hershey, $289,900.

FOLSOM

KEENELAND PLACE LOOP 180: Clay D. Harvin Jr. to Easton K. Rish, $270,000.

NEAL CEMETARY ROAD 83240: Kenneth M. Baham and Arthur E. Baham to Dennis B. Lee and Linda T. Lee, $170,000.

NEAR FOLSOM, PORTION OF GROUND: Robert K. Fairburn to Christopher R. Fairburn and Ashlee N. Fairburn, donation, no value stated.

NEAR FOLSOM, PORTION OF GROUND: Stephen John Loup III and Sheila J. Loup to Stephen J. Loup IV and Brittany Tate Loup, donation, no value stated.

VILLAGE TRACE DRIVE 13144: Helen M. Cooper and Alexander M. Cooper to Holly Del Valle,

$225,000.

LACOMBE

L MILLER ROAD 65461: James C. Cox and Brenda N. Cox to Dylan Newton, $250,000.

LANCASTER COURT 30324: D.R. Horton Inc.-Gulf Coast to Charles B. Fornea and Amanda A. Fornea, $274,900.

LUCILLE DRIVE 26500: Joe & Tonya Investments to Robert Adoue and Alexis R. Adoue, $366,000.

MCGEHEE AVE. 61110: Catherine P. Salzer to Victoria Ann Lorio Lloyd, $153,000.

N. MILL ROAD 61192: Michael A. Elfert to Danielle M. Humphrey, $115,000.

ROUQUETTE DRIVE 65736: D. R. Horton Inc.-Gulf Coast to Amy V. Mountcastle and Cassandra A. Abbott, $264,900.

TOWN OF ST. TAMMANY, PORTION OF GROUND: C&W Brigade LLC to Mitchell Amusements LLC, $800,000.

MADISONVILLE

AUDUBON LANE 34: Daniel G. Casey to Chad D. Starewicz and Jessica E. Rongey, $2,234,818.

AUDUBON PARKWAY 1340: KM Real Estate Investment Group to Baret Vutera and Kristen Vutera, $357,000.

BEDICO CREEK SUBDIVISION, PHASE 1D1, LOT 52: Howard H. Nelson Jr. and Victoria B. Holmes Nelson to Matthew C. Mele and Jolie C. Mele, $590,000.

BELLE POINTE DRIVE 452: Irene Y. Lalla to Henry A. Raziano III, donation, no value stated.

BOXELDER COURT 100: Warshauer Construction Co. LLC to Bradley P. Coco and Jennifer D Coco, $674,546.

BRYANT ST. 103: Landry Family Builders LLC to Richard J. Treuil Jr. and Susannah S. Treuil, $249,900.

ENGLISH OAK DRIVE 733: Nicholas G. Casten and Samantha D. Casten to Robert Mefford and Dionne Mefford, $368,000.

FAYE DAYE DRIVE 108: Charles H. Stafford Jr. and Lisa W. Stafford to Bradley Sekinger, $321,000.

GUSTE ISLAND ESTATES, LOT 238: Blake E. Wolf and Ashley A. Wolf to Square Point Management LLC, $387,000.

GUSTE ISLAND ESTATES, LOT 375: BMI Construction LLC to Marlin E. Jordan and Helen Jordan, $465,000.

KELLY LAKE LANE 4036: Alvarez Construction Co. LLC to Hernan Chirinos and Barbara Chirinos,

$419,990.

LOST LAKE LANE 3088: Chad M. Mosbey and Jennifer G. Mosbey to Hailey J. Osbon, $349,000. MAIN ST. 707, GAUSE BLVD. 200, HIGHWAY 1085, 205 N. COLUMBIA ST. 205: Heritage Bank of St. Tammany to On Path Federal Credit Union, $100 and other valuable consideration.

OAK BEND LANE 4034: YAR Construction Co. Inc. to Mercedees Hernandez, $570,000.

SPIKE DRIVE 71612: DSLD Homes LLC to Nestwell Properties LLC, $189,806.

VENETTE COURT 28621: Lindsey K. Dryden Champagne to Katie M. Collura and Brittany E. Crosby, $310,000.

WOOD THRUSH DRIVE 105: Cesar D. Guzman Rosas and Nydia J. Arevalo Pardo to William C. Davis IV and Bethany N. Davis, $375,000.

MANDEVILLE

ABITA PLACE 300: Michael R. Phillips and Connie N. Phillips to Sean Glynn and Misty Jenkins, $900,000.

BEAU CHENE SUBDIVISION, PHASE 1, LOT 417: Kevin P. Levy and Casey S. Levy to William B. Allen and Marilynne H. Allen, $599,000.

BEAU CHENE SUBDIVISION, PHASE 3, LOT 854: James R. Cross and succession of Barbara I. Cross to Ray G. Price and Shelley F. Price, $590,000.

BEAULIEUX ST. 623: YAR Construction Co. Inc. to Jack S. Jennings III and Sarah C. Jennings, $319,130.

BOCAGE LANE 744: Paul Gasser and Gwen Gasser revocable living trust to Mark Dominguez and Elizabeth Dominguez, $830,000.

BORDELON COURT 2: David Coleman and Courtney F. Coleman to David Schulz and Lori Schulz, $630,000.

BUTTONWILLOW COURT 519: GMA Properties LLC to Jonathan Olavarrieta and Megan Boudin, $425,000.

CARMEL ROAD 70050: Gage C. Phillips and Natalie N. Rick to Charlie Rick III, donation, no value stated.

CARROLL ST. 800-02: Paul E. Morain Jr. and Angela B. Morain to Franklin M. Kyle III and Kerri Kyle, $510,000.

CLOVER ST. 1641: James A. Vonier and Rebecca G. Vonier to Jake Robinson, $200,000.

COURS CARSON ST. 2425: Amy Nowak to Molly Nix and Cohen Nix, $365,000.

DOE COURT2342: Jennifer C. Peterson to HRB Properties LA LLC, $250,000.

FONTAINEBLEUSUBDIVISION, PHASE 2A, LOT53: Douglas E. Burbank and Ashley A. Rome Burbank to Stephen Rabalais and Elisha Rabalais, $575,000.

GERARD ST.122: Ross L. Lynch to Alexander Dominach, $85,000.

JASMINE ST.1313: 2316 Cours Carson LLCtoEnjoli E. Mallary, $251,000.

KILGORE ST.23248: Alexander J. Dominach III to David J. Rosenbergand MistyR.RoaneRosenberg, $240,000.

LAUREL OAKDRIVE 516: Lakeview Loan Servicing LLCtoRalphLee Hicks Jr., $260,000.

MAGNOLIA RIDGE COURT3: Sharp Living Trust to Austin Cunningham and JenniferQuan, $395,000.

MONROE ST.2433: Frederick J. Kloor and Deborah C. Cook Kloor to Gilbert J. SimonsonJr. and Paige C. Simonson,$295,000.

NEAR MANDEVILLE, PORTION OF GROUND: AlamosaHoldings LLCand Abiquiu Holdings LLC to CrosbyDevelopmentLLC, $4,300,000.

NEAR MANDEVILLE, PORTION OF GROUND: RDG Construction & Development LLCtoThree Frogs Park Covington LLC, $400,000.

RIDGEWOOD LOOP 755: D. G. Casey Properties LLCtoDhammadhararevocable living trust, $228,000.

RUE BAYONNE 1344: Joseph C. Niedermair and AmyJ.Niedermair to Carson K. Chan and MeiLing Liu, $690,000.

RUE MARSEILLE 751: Heydelin N. Avila and Jessica G. Avila to Kevin L. Dupuy Jr. and Kristen A. Dupuy, $415,000.

SANCTUARYDRIVE160: Kurt H. Thielhorn and Michele T. ThielhorntoMichael T. Gray and LindaL.Skuba Gray,$1,675,500.

SWEET BAYDRIVE 734: Rene Boudreau Zhao and Hua Zhao to TimothyDelaney and Charlene Gresham Delaney,$475,000.

TEMPLAR LOOP 4469: NAF Cash LLCtoChristian F. Kercheval, $579,311.

TOWNOFMANDEVILLE,PORTION OF GROUND: MKMHB LLC and Alfred Lloyd StoessellCredit Shelter TrusttoCharlie Rick Investment LLC, $350,000.

TRAILWOOD SUBDIVISION, LOT 87: George J. HightowertoAlexis C. Moreno, $209,200.

PEARLRIVER

BERKSHIRE DRIVE1092: Jevyn W. Granger to Connor M. Haley,

$270,000.

REALESTATETRANSFERS

CHRISKENNEDY ROAD 66185: CharlesA.Waller II toDeep Roots Property SolutionsLLC,$10 and other valuable consideration.

CHRISKENNEDY ROAD 66185: Deep Roots Property Solutions LLCtoLeonelP.Morales, $10 and other valuable consideration.

JERRYST. 65091: NocoInvestments LLCand BMN Services LLC to Emberlynn M. Spring,$248,000.

TAYLOR FARMS ROAD 64282: DSLD HomesLLC to Kyle Zimmerle andAlyssaN.Mohammed, $299,485.

W. CHERRYWOOD LANE 177: FreedomMortgage Corp. to Dennis G. Riveraand CinthyaS.Garcia, $123,900.

SLIDELL

AIRPORTROAD61775: Clinton W. Crane to ChristinaL.Crane, donation,novaluestated.

BLACKFIN COVE 208: CoreyM SlavichtoJessica L. Slavich, donation, no valuestated.

BROWNS VILLAGE ROAD 37202: Cheryl V. Monroe toMichael Smith and BreannaLevron Smith, $13,000.

BROWNS VILLAGE SUBDIVISION, LOTS 18, 19, SQUARE C: Glen Merritt to Jason L. Bennett and Jennifer M. Bennett,$29,000.

BYWATER DRIVE117: Tradewinds Properties LLCtoAaron C. Lewis, $48,500.

CAMDEN ST.212: Arielle Nash to RobertCravatta, donation, no value stated.

CASTLE MANOR SUBDIVISION, UNIT 1, LOT37: Romulo Gonzalez and LindaGonzalez to Javier L. Luque Galindo, $156,000.

CEDAR AVE. 57453: Custom Craft HomesInc. to TylerRay,$232,500.

CLARA DRIVE264: Peter J. Holmes and Tohnya I. Holmes to Deborah H. Fournet, John J. FournetJr. andothers, $317,025.

CLIPPERDRIVE 1114: Randall A. Hoeffer and On T. Hoeffer to David A. Grassand Wanda W. Grass, $412,000.

COINDULESTIN PENINSULA, LOT 180: Douglas L. Wakeland and Janet M. WakelandtoThomas A. McNulty and Kayla V. McNulty, $78,500.

COUNTRYCLUBBLVD. 338: Mary Stout Crecelius Shaw Estateto Joseph J. Kelley, $244,000.

DEE ST.3159: Linsey Hardy to CharlesR.LeBlancIII and Victoria C. LeBlanc, $100,000.

DESOTO ST.37643: Jessica L. Slavich to Gavin Slavichand Corey M. Slavich, donation, no value stated.

DOCKSIDE DRIVE 665: Rebecca

A.Xinidakis to Wayne A. Gray Jr. and Errolyn M. Gray,$575,000.

DRIFTWOOD CIRCLE 507: KarenL Sallisbury to Liquid Creations & Scapes LLC, $95,000.

DRURYLANE 209: ClaytonD Knowles and RachelL.Knowles to Cameron G. Cook,$171,000.

E. LENWOOD DRIVE 616: Succession of Gameel Gabriel to BMRC Properties LLC, $115,500.

FORNEA GLEN WAY5445: D. R. Horton Inc.-Gulf CoasttoSarah Willie,$236,900.

GRAFTON DRIVE 82: TammyM BauertoGlendonSolomon and Rozlynn Solomon,$325,000.

HAMPSHIRE DRIVE 2150: Michael FoytoCharles M. Fotsch and Samantha S. Fotsch, $449,000.

HARBOR DRIVE 1244: Alida Boynton to BerthaC.Stein, $125,000.

KINGSPOINT SUBDIVISION, PHASE1,LOT 16, SQUARE 5: Joel Brookins to Karell Brookins,

PINE CIRCLE 120: Bianca H. Gomez to Tyler E. Yarborough, $216,800.

PINETREE ST.759: John Taylor to PamelaTaylor, $42,404, donation.

PORTSMOUTH DRIVE 320: D&B Renovations LLCtoJamikaWynder, $228,000.

ROSE ST.35305: Marcella R. Guidroz to DanielJ.Esposito, $210,000.

S. LAKESHORE BLVD.2097: Justin M. Thomas and Charlene Y. Thomas to Donald Cribbs and Jeannie S. Cribbs, $895,000.

SPILLWAYMANOR DRIVE 5148: D.R. Horton Inc.-Gulf CoasttoTor TalmadgeBridgesJr., $269,900.

STERLING OAKS BLVD.1023: Roy J. Dufour and Kellie Ann Dobard to SierraA.Lassalle and Bradley T. Hart, $234,000.

W. PINEWOOD DRIVE 185: Earlean J. Stalks to Cristian J. Ortiz-

Rodriguezand BriannaA.Oritz, $375,000.

WHISPERWOOD BLVD.150: Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp to BarbaraKumpe, $204,600.

WILLIAM DRIVE 1016: GilbertL Daigle Jr. to BradfordThomas and GiseleThomas,$253,000.

WILLIAM TELL ST.3106: Planet Home Lending LLCtoSecretary of Veterans Affairs, $81,529.

SUN/BUSH

DUNCANLANE 23500: Bridget B. Plaisance to RobertS.AllenKuna and Patricia D. Kuna, $280,000.

HOUSE CREEK ROAD 83346: Gwendolyn S. Richoux to Monica E. Prem-Sharp,$150,000.

WARD ROAD 81106: Alexander J. JarrelltoJason S. Jarrelland Daniell F. Jarrell, donation, no value stated.

Strawberry pot ‘windows’ make for striking, efficient displays

BY JESSICA DAMIANO Associated Press

You’ve seen them — those odd planters that look like buildings with windows and balconies on their sides. Maybe you’ve planted strawberries in them. Or maybe you’ve just never understood them.

Typically made of terra cotta, the pots are usually tall and urn-shaped, but shorter, wider options are also available.

They are, in fact, strawberry pots, and those windows are intended to hold soil and strawberries, keeping them off the ground as they grow and, therefore, protecting them from rotting. But think outside the pot, and you’ll find they make lovely (and efficient) displays for other plants, too.

The fenestrated containers can be planted with succulents like hens and chicks. Consider the orange and yellow “Gold Nugget” or the silver-haired “Cobweb” varieties for an eye-catching display In colder areas, the whole pot can be brought indoors for winter; just ensure the succulents get ample sunlight, and avoid overwatering.

Or create a space-saving culinary herb garden by filling the “balcony” pockets with cooking essentials like

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO

A lushly planted strawberry pot serves as a focal point in a succulent garden.

parsley, sage, thyme, mint and oregano, placing the smaller species at the bottom of the pot and larger ones higher up. Then plant a tall herb like rosemary or basil in the opening at the top and — voila!

— you’ve created an instant centerpiece. You might even incorporate a few dwarf marigolds for color

Herbs, too, can be brought indoors and grown (and used!) in the kitchen over winter. Trailing flowers and vines make a statement as they spill from the containers’ openings. Keep it monochrome, or plant a rainbow of colors for a daz-

zling display.

Trailing geraniums, petunias, and chartreuse or purple sweet potato vines can be alternated around the sides of the pot. A dramatic grass, like Cordyline “Festival,” can be planted at the top of larger planters, black mondo grass in smaller ones.

Nasturtiums, million bells, trailing verbena and sweet alyssum also lend themselves nicely to the pots. Green ivies provide a more understated aesthetic.

If you don’t have a lot of sunlight, consider combining different varieties of caladium and coleus for a colorful display

Regardless of what you’re planting, ensuring water reaches the roots of every plant in a strawberry pot can pose a bit of a challenge — but there’s an easy solution.

Cut a piece of PVC piping slightly longer than the pot’s height, then drill holes 2 inches apart along its sides. At planting time, add potting mix up to the pot’s bottom openings, then position the pipe vertically in the center Insert plants through the holes (from the inside out), add more potting mix to reach the next level of openings and add more plants. Repeat until you reach the top of the pot, packing the soil tightly as you go.

Water and fertilize through the pipe, which will be hidden as the centerpiece plant grows.

Strawberry pots are available in various materials, but the traditional versions are made of clay, which can crack in freezing temperatures. If your area

The fiery, plumelike blooms of Dragon’s Breath celosia stand out in warm-season landscapes.

PROVIDED

Dragon’s Breath celosia thrives in summer heat

By LSU AgCenter

For centuries, folktales told in cultures around the world have included a fearsome creature: the fire-breathing dragon

While dragons are pure fantasy, flaming-hot Louisiana summers are an all-too-familiar reality for us gardeners. They’re no match, however, for Dragon’s Breath celosia — one of the newest selections for the Louisiana Super Plant program. It thrives in our heat and humidity while adding a splash of fiery red to the landscape.

Dragon’s Breath celosia (Celosia argentea or Celosia plumosa) features striking, scarlet-to-hot pink, plumelike blooms that resemble flames. These eye-catching blooms are influenced by day length and appear in two cycles: from spring to early summer and again as summer gives way to fall until first frost.

In the peak of summer when days are longer, the plant switches to a vegetative growth stage. But this phase in between bloom cycles is no less visually interesting, offering a chance to appreciate the plant’s olive green leaves with red variegations that deepen as summer heats up.

A member of the amaranth family (Amaranthaceae), celosia is a warm-season annual native to Africa. The Dragon’s Breath cultivar was developed from seed by Sakata Ornamentals.

Dragon’s Breath is a lowmaintenance plant with few pest concerns. Heat, rain and humidity are no problem for

this plant, which has thick, sturdy stems that keep the plant upright during summer downpours.

It is drought tolerant once established, which takes two to four weeks. It can perform well in a range of soil conditions as long as drainage is good; root rot can occur in soggy areas. Planting in full sun is a must to ensure production of the trademark fiery blooms.

Dragon’s Breath typically reaches 20 to 24 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide. It’s a bit too tall for the edges of landscape beds, working better as a second layer behind smaller border specimens. Plants should be spaced 18 inches apart to provide adequate airflow.

You can spice up fresh and dried cut flower arrangements with Dragon’s Breath blooms. The plant also makes a perfect “thriller” in mixed container plantings.

Dragon’s Breath doesn’t need a lot of fertilizer. Apply onethird to one-half the rate specified on the label of a balanced, general-purpose fertilizer when planting, and you’ll be good to go for the growing season.

Spent blooms can be deadheaded throughout the growing season to maintain a neat appearance and encourage more flowering.

The Louisiana Super Plant program promotes beautiful, tough plants that are university tested and industry approved. For information about Dragon’s Breath and other plants that have earned the Louisiana Super Plant status, visit lsuagcenter.com/SuperPlants.

PHOTO By LSU AGCENTER

PROVIDED PHOTO By NASA

The HubbleSpace Telescope was deployedinto orbit around Earth on April25, 1990.

TODAYINHISTORY

By The Associated Press

Today is Saturday,April 25, the 115th day of 2026.There are 250 days left in the year.

Todayinhistory:

On April 25, 1898, the U.S. Congress declared war against Spain. The 16-week Spanish-American Warresulted in an American victory, after which the U.S. took possession of the Philippines, Puerto Rico and Guam

Also on this date:

In 1507, aworld map produced by German cartographer Martin Waldseemüller contained the first recorded use of the term “America,” in honor of Italian navigator Amerigo Vespucci

In 1859, ground was broken in Egypt for construction of the Suez Canal.

In 1915, during World War I, Allied soldiers invaded the Gallipoli Peninsulain an unsuccessful attempt to take the Ottoman Empireout of the war

In 1945, during World War II, delegates from 50 countries opened aconferencein San Francisco to create the Charter of the United Nations

In 1959, the St. Lawrence Seaway opened to commercial traffic, connecting all five Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean.

In 1990, the Hubble Space Telescope was deployedin orbit from the space shuttle Discovery.(It was later dis-

Standing firmwithfamily

coveredthat the telescope’s primary mirrorwas flawed, requiring the installation of corrective componentsto achieve optimal focus.)

In 2014,city officials in Flint, Michigan, changed the sourceofits water supply from Lake Huron(provided by Detroit) to theFlint River in acost-cutting move. The river waterexposedFlint residents to dangerous levels of lead and bacteria, leading to a public health crisisthat took five years toresolve.

In 2015,a magnitude 7.8 earthquake rocked Nepal, killing nearly 9,000people,injuring more than 22,000others anddamaging some 1million houses and buildings.

In 2022, theworld’s richest person, ElonMusk, reached an agreement to buy Twitter forroughly$44 billion,promisingamore lenientapproach to policing content on the socialmediaplatform that he would rebrand asX Today’sbirthdays: Actor Al Pacino is 86. Musician-producer BjörnUlvaeus (ABBA) is 81. Actor Talia Shire is 80. NBA CommissionerAdamSilver is 64. Actor Hank Azariais62. SportscasterJoe Buck is 57. Actor Gina Torresis57. Actor RenéeZellwegeris57. Actor JasonLee is 56. Basketball HallofFamer TimDuncan is 50. Singerand actor Sara Paxtonis38. NFLsafetyJordanPoyer is 35. Actor Allisyn Snyderis30.

Dear Annie: My husband has three children from his first marriage. For the first 20 years of us being married, everything was great.But the last 15 years have been hell with two of the children. They becamesuper religious and politicaltothe point they are always pushing their way of life on us.

We told themtostop,that we have our own religious and political beliefs and to please accept us for who we are, and we will be respectful of what they think. It’sbeen 14 years since and we’ve had no contact with them.

Afew weeks ago, they popped up in ahorrible way.I won’tgointodetail, but it was disturbing, disrespectful and intrusive. How do we get them to stop and leave us alone?

Stressed Out With Stepchildren

Dear Stressed Out: Fourteen years of no contact is aboundary —and you’re entitled to keep it

There’snoneed to rehash old arguments or defend your beliefs. Aclear,united message —“We are not interested in contact. Please respect our wishes” —isenough. Then don’tengage. No replies, no explanations.

If they continue to intrude, document everything and consider stronger measures, including legal ones if necessary,toprotect your peace.

Youcan’tcontrol their behavior,only your response. Sometimes the strongest response is no response.

Dear Annie: Iknowit’sbad mannerstohijack conversations and engage in oneupmanship. What should my friends and Idoabout this situation?

Our high school group of friends gathers once aweek. One person, “Bianca,” constantly hasastorytotell about herchildren, hercooking skills, everything she has done the past week —and of course, she always surpasses

anything the rest of us are capable of.

One lady was telling us about adinner she made for her family.Biancasaid she makes the dish such and such way and has made it for over 100 people. She’salways oneupping everyoneelse.

It doesn’tmatter what any of us mention —she’sdone it, and she’sdone it better.Anything we talk about, she has abetter way.She brags and brags. And we’re tired of her flaunting her wealth, not that she earned it herself; she’s neverworked.

We’renot jealous. We are all comfortable in life; however, the nonsense never ends. Several of us, though not everyone in the group, have college degrees and have had professional careers. We certainly don’tfeel superior to any of our fellow classmates. We just enjoy getting together.And if anyone newenters the group, we hear all her grandiose stories again.

Bianca’sdaughters are perfect,and she gushes when she talks of them. I’ve met one of them, and Ifelt the girl was condescending and had a superioritycomplex. Bianca is abore and ruins our gettogethers. When we go out to eat, she always sends her food back because no one can make any dish as well as she can.

We’resosick of the public embarrassment. She’ssofull

TONIVANZANDT

504-913-8665 toni@reverealtors.com

of herself and hijacks conversations. She’sincapable of understanding or reading the body language and/or facial expressions of the rest of us when we’ve had enough, even when we sit and stare into space or exchange looks with one another —Fed Up and Bored Dear FedUpand Bored: You’re right —one-upmanship is poor manners. But so is letting resentment simmer without ever addressing it.

Bianca mayactually be oblivious, not malicious. Staring into space and exchanging glances clearly aren’tgetting through, so it’stime for something more direct. One person in the group can pull her aside and say,gently,“We love getting together,but sometimes it feels like conversations turn into competitions. We’d really enjoy more back-and-forth with the group.”

In the moment, try steering the conversation instead of letting her drive. When she jumps in to top astory,say, “That’snice, Bianca —anyway,asIwas saying …” sends amessage without causing a scene.

If nothing changes, you may need to limit your interactions to smaller doses. Friendship should feel enjoyable, not exhausting.

Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@ creators.com.

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