The Advocate 07-26-2026

Up to 20%ofstudents fail intransitiontocollege

Supportgroupsstepuptocounsel high school graduatesatamake-or-break time

Intern Skyi’ Lewis, astudent at Colorado Collegeand agraduate from GeorgeWashington

High

contacts recent high schoolgraduates to prevent ‘summer melt’ at Dillard University in

BY MARIEFAZIO Staff writer

Skyi’ Lewis dialed the numberofa high school graduate headed to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette this fall andrattled through alist of questions.

“You got your confirmed housing? A schedule? Can you send me ascreenshot? Do you know thelocation of your courses and what time they start?How are you getting to Lafayette?”

ä Group

Arecent alum of G.W. CarverHigh SchoolinNew Orleans and arising sophomore at Colorado College, Lewis is familiarwith the checklist of things that need to be completed before a student ever setsfoot on campus.She’s also seen what happens when those logistics fall through the cracks.

Up to 20% of students who are accepted into college and fully intend to enroll never make it to campus, according to national studies. In Louisiana, that could mean hundreds of students across the state. The phenomenon is called “summer melt,” and it is often driven by financial aid confusion or hang-ups in other logistical steps in the enrollment process.

Nonprofit supportgroups,high schools and colleges acrossthe state have stepped up their efforts to ensure students who commit to acollege make it there andeventuallygraduate. Collegiate Academies, which operates Carver and three other New Orleans high schools,isone of them.

Theorganization has tapped Lewis and three other college students —all Collegiate alums —tohelp recent high school graduates make the transition to higherlearning.

“You have to complete awhole bunch of steps beforeactually moving on campus,”Lewis said on arecent afternoon between phonecalls. “I’m just

BY QUINN COFFMAN Staff writer

The fall races fordistrict judgeships in East Baton Rouge Parish will be unusual, with many sitting judgesaging off their benches, newsubdistricts created and the first seat to be elected by the entire parish in morethan 30 years. Even theballot forthe Nov.3election will look different, with up to eight judicial seats being decided rather than five from previous years. This year’selection changes are due to anew law,sponsored by Rep. Barbara Freiberg, R-Baton Rouge, and passed by the Legislature last year The law drew new subdistricts for the 19th Judicial District, resetting whichportions of the parish vote in each judge’srace. Thepreviousmap, drawnmorethan30years ago as part of alegal settlement meanttoprotect Black voting rights, hadthreesubdistricts, each of which selected five of thecourt’s15 judges.

ä See ELECTIONS, page 7A

Rhonda Dale, center, helpsJalana Farlough and Olivia Morales contact recent high school graduates on Thursday.

here to support them do everything step by step.” The summer months after graduation can be amake-or-break time for high school graduates hoping to begin college in the fall. Studentsneed to secure housing, register for classes, attend orientation and often navigate the insand outsoffinancial aid, among other logistical tasks. Thosetaskscan be much moredifficult for first-generation students navigating theprocess, saidMia Gonzales Washington, director of the NOLA Collegeand Career

ä See TRANSITION, page 7A

unravelingmonkey torturering Covingtonwoman arrestedinglobalprobe

BY JAMES FINN Staff writer

Federal agents knocked on adoor in Covingtonlastsummer,searching for awoman wanted for an unusual crime.

Ariel Kornienko had been hiding asecondlife from her children and ailing mother.Tohundreds of closely vetted visitors in secretive chat rooms, she was the “Baronness” —aleader in a dark underworld whose members drawdelight from videos of live apes beingburned, flayed and sexually tortured.

In an interview with aU.S. Department of Homeland Security special agent that morning and in documents filed later in federal court, Kornienko laid out new revelations into the “monkey hate community” she had cometoinhabit. Federalagents in

ä See RING, page 8A

STAFF PHOTOSByENAN CHEDIAK

Carver

School,

NewOrleans on Thursday

Van slams into Berlin Pride event, killing 1

BERLIN A van slammed into people gathered for Berlin’s famed LGBTQ+ event on Saturday killing one person, injuring at least 16 others and prompting police to call off the celebrations and a concert in the German capital hours after they had begun.

Berlin police said they have identified a suspect who has not been arrested and he has ties to Islamic extremists in the German capital.

“The suspect is known to police He is known to us as a member of Islamic circles here in Berlin, and our search for this person is proceeding at full speed,” said police spokesman Florian Nath. He did not identify the suspect by name.

Earlier police said some of the victims had life-threatening injuries. In a post on X, police called on everyone to leave the site of the event immediately as ambulances and firefighters attended to the victims.

Meanwhile, authorities called on possible witnesses to come forward and share with police any video or photos they might have taken at the scene of the attack.

Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner expressed shock, saying that “following a peaceful and vibrant pride parade, the rally for a tolerant and peaceful Berlin was attacked in the most brutal manner.” Before the incident, people had celebrated peacefully, marching through the city for hours, dancing to loud music, and cheering the around 80 floats that participated in the parade.

Southern China on high alert for Typhoon Noul

HONG KONG Typhoon Noul is bringing winds and heavy rain to southern China, including Hong Kong, over the weekend, prompting the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of people in the province of Guangdong with the region on high alert and at least dozens of flights canceled.

Hong Kong’s Observatory said Noul, which had intensified with maximum sustained winds of 90 mph near its center, was moving on Saturday across the South China Sea and edging closer toward the coast of Guangdong

The city’s observatory forecasts Noul could make landfall Sunday morning around the vicinity of the southern Chinese cities of Huizhou and Shanwei and then move inland, bringing strong winds and squally showers to parts of the region. China’s weather center expects Noul to make landfall in the early hours of Sunday Mainland Chinese authorities issued their highest-tier red typhoon alert on Saturday evening, while Hong Kong’s observatory hoisted the storm signal No. 8, the third-highest under the city’s alert system.

More than 340,000 people had been evacuated by Saturday afternoon in Guangdong province, according to state broadcaster CCTV 8 found dead in Michigan after fire Eight people, including six children, were found dead in a Michigan home after a fire, some with gunshot wounds, law enforcement said Friday Police and fire authorities responded just before noon to a house fire in Grand Haven Township, on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan. When they went inside, they found the bodies, Capt. Jacob Sparks of the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office said at an evening news conference. Sparks said authorities had not fully identified all the victims yet and do not have an official cause of death for them. The children’s ages ranged from 5 to 15, he said. He did not say how many of the people had gunshot wounds.

“It’s a complicated scene, a complex scene,” Sparks said He said investigators were not looking for outside suspects and that one theory so far is a murder-suicide. He said everyone that lived in the home appeared to be deceased.

Sparks said the fire was “suspicious” and that there was reason to believe it was intentionally set. Michigan State Police arson investigators are assisting on scene, he said.

health

is set on fire

Congo, on Saturday.

More Congo health, frontline workers strike

Ebola cases near 3,000, including over 1,300 deaths

BY PROSPER HERI NGORORA and CONSTANT SAME BAGALWA Associated Press

BUNIA, Congo — Health workers at an Ebola treatment center in eastern Congo went on strike on Saturday, demanding their pay

The walkout disrupted care for patients in the epicenter of the country’s rapidly growing outbreak.

The number of confirmed cases of Ebola in Congo has reached 2,973, including 1,309 deaths, according to government data released on Friday in what authorities say is the fastest-growing outbreak on record

The Elikya Ebola Treatment Center in Bunia, Ituri province, came to a standstill after doctors, nurses and security staff stopped work.

About a hundred health workers protested outside the treatment center on Saturday They said the unpaid bonuses were undermining morale and disrupting patient care, and called on Congolese authorities to resolve the backpay so they could resume their work.

“We need to be paid, because

in the meantime the disease is spreading at the treatment center,” Martin Bolombi, one of the health workers on strike said.

“I’ve already had five people die who are still inside there. A solution must be found for us,” he added.

In a statement issued Friday, staff said they had unanimously voted to strike until “concrete solutions” were found to resolve “two months of unpaid performance bonuses.”

The strike comes a day after Congo’s Prime Minister Judith Suminwa came to Ituri, touring major treatment hubs, in Rwampara and Mongbwalu, to assess the outbreak response. During her visit in Mongbwalu, she faced urgent demands from healthcare personnel protesting payment issues.

Dr Adelard Lufungula, operations manager for the Ebola response, said Saturday the payment issue is “being resolved,” with workers now paid via mobile money instead of cash, and that the backlog “should be cleared” in the coming days.

Last week, health workers at Bunia General Hospital, the re-

gion’s largest medical center, had already gone on strike over unpaid salaries. Some told The Associated Press they had not received any payment since they started work at the onset of the outbreak.

The World Health Organization says more than 100 healthcare workers have been infected since the beginning of the outbreak.

The Central African nation has been battling the Ebola outbreak caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus since May 15. A total of 766 patients remain in isolation or in hospitals, while 540 have recovered so far, according to data from Congo’s Ministry of Health.

The eastern province of Ituri accounts for nearly 90% of confirmed cases. The outbreak continues to spread faster than health officials can track despite an expanding response. A key challenge is that patient zero has yet to be identified in the outbreak while displacement from armed conflict and illegal mining in the region have made it difficult to trace thousands who have come in contact with infected individuals

Dry, windy weather fueling spread of Oregon wildfires

Fourth responder dies weeks after Colorado blaze

BY MEAD GRUVER Associated Press

FORT COLLINS,Colo.— As dry windy weather fueled a big wildfire near a city in central Oregon, a fourth firefighter died after he and several colleagues last month were overcome by a fast-moving wildfire near the Colorado-Utah border authorities said Saturday Nathan Matthews, 43, of Lincoln, Nebraska, died Friday, the federal Interior Department said in a statement. Meanwhile, several fierce wildfires in a summer of big ones continued burning across the western U.S.

One of the worst and the one deemed top priority for firefighting efforts was just a few miles north of Sisters, a central Oregon city of about 3,800 people. Winds gusting up to 30 mph threatened to push flames into new areas.

Firefighters made progress keeping the fire in check, however, and officials were optimistic the city would be in the clear once the worst of the wind died down Sunday

“It’s going to take a while to put it out entirely But as long as it stops moving, I think that’ll get people to relax a little bit,” Sisters Mayor Jennifer Letz said.

As of Saturday, the lightning-caused fire had burned about 40 square miles and was 5% contained. About 30 people evacuated from areas north of Sisters were in a shelter at the local high school, with about as many more staying in recreational vehicles parked outside, Letz said. The city wasn’t in any immediate dan-

ger, and business was carrying on like usual, Letz said.

“We’re not necessarily asking everybody to come to Sisters. But it’s safe here,” said Letz.

Months of dry weather, a record lack of snow in some areas, hot spells and erratic winds have contributed to the blazes in Oregon, Washington, California, Colorado and elsewhere this summer

In Canada, 926 fires were burning Saturday, including 82 deemed out of control, according to the Canadian Wildland Fire Information System.

About 300 aircraft and 5,300 people were involved in fighting the fires. They included 133 in northwestern Ontario alone, according to the province’s Aviation, Forest Fire and Emergency Services agency The biggest in Ontario had covered some 1,200 square miles.

The U.S. firefighter who died was among a group that had deployed tentlike emergency shelters to try to shield themselves when flames closed in June 27. Three of them died at the scene: Emily Barker, 38; Nick Hutcherson, 27; and Sydney Watson, 26.

They were part of a Helitack crew — a group that gets dropped by helicopter into remote areas to try to squelch new, rapidly expanding fires — that had been deployed in Mesa County Colorado west of the city of Grand Junction. Matthews and another firefighter were taken for medical treatment. The Interior Department declined Saturday to discuss their treatment, Matthews’ career or the surviving firefighter’s current condition.

Watson, Hutcherson and Barker were honored at a memorial service earlier this month. Memorial arrangements for Matthews weren’t yet announced.

Man who caused Park fire convicted of arson

Wildfire was one of the largest in California history

BY CLARA HARTER Los Angeles Times (TNS)

It was a blistering day in Butte County when a man revved his wheels in dry grass until a spark ignited, then pushed the flaming vehicle down a 60-foot hill.

Whipped by strong winds amid 100-plus degree temperatures, that spark grew into California’s fourth-largest wildfire on record, ultimately scorching some 429,000 acres and destroying 427 homes.

On Friday two years to the day since the devastating Park fire ignited — a judge found Ronnie Stout guilty of purposefully starting the blaze. The 44-year-old Chico man faces 25 years to life and is scheduled to be sentenced Oct. 9, according to the Butte County district attorney’s office. Butte County Superior Court Judge Kristen Lucena found him guilty of felony arson with multiple enhancements, including that he caused the destruction of multiple residential structures and is a “threestrike” offender Stout had waived his right to a jury trial, opting instead to let Lucena decide his fate. In 2001, he was convicted of molesting a Butte County child under 14 and served a year in jail The following year, he was convicted of robbery and causing great bodily injury in Kern County and sentenced to 20 years in prison. Then, while on parole for the robbery sentence in 2020, he was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence near Upper Bidwell Park in Chico.

And on July 24, 2024, Lucena ruled, he started the largest wildfire caused by arson in California history

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ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By CONSTANT SAME BAGALWA

Rubble

as

and frontline workers protest at the Elikya Ebola Treatment Center in Bunia,

Iran-backed Houthis fire missiles at Saudi Arabia

yemen rebels say attack was in response to Hodeida airstrikes

BY SAMY MAGDY and GIOVANNA DELL’ORTO Associated Press

CAIRO Yemen’s Iran-

backed Houthi rebels said Saturday that they fired missiles and drones at Saudi Arabia in response to Saudi airstrikes on the strategic Red Sea city of Hodeida in an escalation over vital shipping routes in the Middle East while the United States and Iran vie for control of the Strait of Hormuz.

Brig. Gen. Yahya Saree, the Houthis’ military spokesperson, said in a prerecorded statement that the attack targeted facilities in the Red Sea cities of Yanbu and Jizan that belong to Aramco, the world’s largest oil company Saudi Arabia’s civil defense

said alerts sounded multiple times early Saturday in both cities, but the kingdom didn’t comment further.

There were no reported strikes overnight in Iran, in an apparent break from nearly two weeks of consecutive nights of U.S attacks.

Shipping threatened

The Houthis have said they would close the Bab el-Mandeb Strait to Saudi-

linked shipping in retaliation for the kingdom’s blockade on Yemen and a recent attack on the international airport in Yemen’s rebel-held capital, Sanaa.

“Nothing short of ending the aggression and lifting the blockade, otherwise, it’s all illusion and mirage,” Mahdi al-Mashat, head of the Houthi-led Supreme Political Council governing rebel-controlled territories in Yemen,

Clean energy grants canceled based on politics

BY MATTHEW DALY Associated Press

WASHINGTON The Trump administration has acknowledged in court documents that it canceled $7.6 billion in grants for hundreds of clean energy projects “based solely on the political identity of the grant recipient’s state” — in this case, 16 states that voted for Democrat Kamala Harris in the 2024 presidential election.

The statement contradicts repeated assertions by Energy Secretary Chris Wright and other officials that the projects were canceled because they did not adequately advance the nation’s energy needs or had other problems that made them a poor investment of taxpayer dollars.

Democrats and environmental groups seized on the court filing Friday saying the administration had “weaponized” the federal government to kill good jobs and punish working families because of their political views.

“This administration has now admitted in court what has long been obvious: it terminated nearly 300 cost-cutting energy projects for no reason other than the fact that the states they were in did not vote for the president

in the 2024 election,” said Rep. Marcy Kaptur of Ohio and Sen. Patty Murray of Washington state. Both are high-ranking Democrats on the House and Senate Appropriations committees, respectively “Weaponizing the federal government like this is outright un-American, and it’s hardworking families already struggling with sky-high costs who are suffering the consequences of this corrupt abuse of power,” Kaptur and Murray said.

They called on congressional Republicans to join them in holding the Trump administration “accountable for the President’s failure to look out for all Americans.”

The Energy Department announced last October that 321 funding awards across 223 projects were terminated, saying that after review, they “did not adequately advance the nation’s energy needs or were not economically viable.”

The cuts, part of broader attacks from President Donald Trump on climate programs and clean energy funding, slashed federal support for projects to build battery plants, develop hydrogen technology, upgrade the electric grid and capture carbon dioxide emissions.

GetInvolvedwith Pennington Biomedical Research Center

said of what it would take for the Houthis to not blockade the Bab-El-Mandeb.

That strait, at the southern tip of the Arabian Peninsula, is a vital shipping chokepoint connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. Around 12% of the world’s trade, including a quarter of its container traffic, passes through the narrows.

The Houthis targeted two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea this week. In response, Saudi Arabia struck Hodeida, the Saudi-led coalition opposing the rebels said Saturday The strikes late Friday hit the port and the state-run telecommunications corporation, injuring two people, said Anees al-Asbahi, a spokesperson for the Houthi-run health ministry

The Saudi-led coalition said it didn’t hit the port but struck “legitimate military targets” in Hodeida province that “were linked to

threats to commercial vessels in the Red Sea.”

Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, called for “diplomacy and dialogue” to solve the Yemen conflict without “military confrontations” in an interview published Saturday by the staterun newspaper called Iran.

Iran condemns attack

“Iran had a peaceful night,” Hossein Kermanpour a spokesperson for Iran’s Health Ministry, posted on X. U.S. Central Command didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment Unlike the previous 13 nights, it didn’t announce new strikes.

But Iran’s foreign ministry condemned what it called a Ukrainian attack Saturday on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea, saying one person was killed and another was hurt and calling it an act of aggression.

In a separate statement, Araghchi said he spoke with European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas about it and that Tehran demanded a response. Ukraine’s diplomatic representative to Iran was summoned, Iranian state media reported. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy earlier said on X that Ukraine “achieved very strong results with long-range strikes in the Caspian Sea — including vessels used in military cargo shipments involving Iran.” While efforts at mediation between the U.S. and Iran continue, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu plans to travel to the United States next week and meet with President Donald Trump in Washington on Tuesday, his office said Friday They last met in Washington in February, weeks before they launched the war

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By OSAMAH ABDULRAHMAN

Fireworks burst as Houthi supporters rally against the Saudiled coalition in Sanaa, yemen, on Monday.

Evacuations grow as wildfires rage across France, Spain

Shifting winds, dry conditions cause fast spread

BY MARK CARLSON, EMMA DA SILVA and JOHN LEICESTER Associated Press

LEGE-CAP FERRET France

France sent a hulking military cargo plane to dump tons of flame retardants as it battled raging wildfires on Saturday and slashed the final stage of Tour de France to redeploy security personnel to the blazes that forced tens of thousands of people to flee their homes.

The latest wildfires in southern Europe this week have displaced more than 250,000 people, including some 70,000 people who were evacuated in central Spain. One man died in Manises, the municipality reported on its Facebook page, the first death so far in the blazes.

In France, the giant A400M transporter swooped in low, its long plume of ochre-colored retardant trailing over drought-hit woodlands in the southwest as fire crews on the ground fought flames that authorities feared could spread toward the wine region city of Bordeaux.

Race organizers and the Paris police department an-

BY MAE ANDERSON AP business writer

NEW YORK President Don-

ald Trump’s tariffs are headed to court — again.

Two lawsuits filed by small businesses are challenging Trump’s sweeping tariffs announced Thursday that impose double-digit levies on 60 trading partners. The tariffs, implemented under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974 for what the Trump administration says is countries’ failure to prevent imports produced

nounced a truncated 21st and final stage on Sunday for the three-week Tour France’s most famous annual sporting event, reflecting the immense strain that two large fires in the southwest are causing for emergency services.

Tour riders will race Sunday inside Paris, rather than starting from Thoiry, west of the capital, on a circuit of 55 miles down by a third from the 82.5-mile route that had been planned. Part of the race’s security detail will instead “reinforce the response efforts in the areas affected by the wildfires,” according to the statement announcing the “exceptional measures made necessary by the situation.”

Winds raise concerns

With winds expected to shift in a west-to-east direction on Saturday afternoon,

by forced labor, cover 99% of U.S. imports. Critics say the goal is less to prevent forced-labor imports and more to replace the worldwide tariffs Trump imposed last year that were struck down by the Supreme Court in February. They came just as temporary 10% worldwide tariffs expired.

Educational toy company Learning Resources, which was part of the tariff lawsuit that won in the Supreme Court, filed a new suit along with several other small businesses in the Court of

potentially driving flames closer to Bordeaux, fire crews and authorities were digging trenches, using retardants and taking other blaze-blocking steps, French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez said, predicting a “long and very difficult” battle.

He said the fire was about 20 miles west of the city and lost some of its intensity overnight. The prefect of the Gironde region that includes Bordeaux said the blaze grew into “a firestorm” on Friday after igniting earlier this week and cautioned that it “remains dangerous” even though firefighters were making progress.

The government mobilized soldiers to join fire crews and was rushing in 1.5 million face masks to protect against choking smoke.

Authorities ordered peo-

International Trade over the current round of tariffs.

The second lawsuit was filed by Burlap and Barrel, a New York-based spice company, and Collective Horology, a watch retailer based in Ventura, California. They are represented by Liberty Justice Center

Both lawsuits argue the governmentdidn’tadequately establish its case against each specific economy or spell how the tariffs will eliminate the specified practice they are being levied for, as required by Section 301.

ple between the fire and Bordeaux to evacuate, including from parts of the city’s western suburbs and other towns and villages.

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu described the fires as unprecedented and said the Gironde blaze became so strong on Friday that it had begun generating its own winds. Firefighting teams were being reinforced with the addition of hundreds of soldiers and breathing masks

to filter out potentially noxious smoke particles were being rushed to those exposed, Lecornu said

Caught off guard

The French military A400M transport plane, specially converted for fire-fighting, was a heavyweight new tool in the battle. It joined at least 18 other water- and retardant-dropping aircraft and helicopters that Nunez said were deployed in the Gironde

region, working in rotation in the smoke-

lled skies. The virulence of the French and Spanish wildfires, fueled by high temperatures and the long-term effects of climate change, caught fire crews and authorities off guard

Firefighters in Spain said the blazes spread so fast that they could not be tackled head on. In France, some people even fled by boat when

ames swept through touristic towns on the Atlantic coast.

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whoalreadyaccesstheir health informationvia MyChart,Epic’spatient portal,can addMyLABluetotheir MyChart accounts.Thisletsthem quicklyviewinformation from theirproviders alongsidetheir LouisianaBlueplaninformation within thesame platform.

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“Ittruly brings healthcare to theirfingertips no matter wheretheyare.Ithinkthatisone of themost valuable features,” Pricesaid. MyLABlue also nowsupportsdelegated access, allowingmemberstosecurelysharetheirinformation with caregivers or family memberswho have their permission

“Overall,weare seeing more memberswho want toengage withus digitally. This platform givesthem more opportunitiestodothat,”Baldensaid. “The feedback so farhas beenthatMyLABluemakes self-service easier andgives them theinformation thattheywantwhentheywantit.Peopleparticularly like thesecure messagingfeature andhavefound it easy to use. LouisianaBluemembers cansignupfor the MyLABlue digitalplatformatlablue.com, by downloading theMyLABlueapp from theApp storeor GooglePlayorbylinkingittotheir existingMyChart account.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By CAROLINE BLUMBERG Fiirefighters spray water in a burning forest in the Lège-CapFerret region, western France, on Friday.

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We trulyenjoy meetingwithpatients, reviewingX-rayswiththem, andhelping them find outifSpinalDecompressioncould be their pain solution,likeithas been forso many others

Iwas suffering with lowerbackpainfor years, anditwas gettingworse andworse It wassopainful that Icould notfunction.I couldnot getout thebed withoutfalling tothe floor. Ihad triedorthopedicdoctors,medication scans, physical therapy- alltonoavail IcametoLeBlanc SpineCenter, andI startedSpinalDecompression treatments in August…and Inow feel 100% improved!

Iamnow sleeping better,drivingwithout pain,walking further–all of theseactivities Ican nowdo, andIhaveenergythatIonly hadwhenI wasyoung Iamtreated wonderfully by thestaff at LeBlanc SpineCenter. They aresopolite andcaring. Dr.Scott andDr. Dana are unbelievably helpful. Thetreatment is not painful, andIenjoy themusic whileIam theretoo!

If askedtorecommend LeBlancSpine Center, Iwould saythatIamconvinced that you will improvea bigamount, if not100%. Decompression therapyisthe waytogo!

RonnieHebert

(Civil Engineer) Hometown -Plaquemine, LA

Ihad been sufferingwithpainfrom herniateddiscs in my lowerback. Icould notstand for longerthan5minutes withoutpain. Ihad triedepiduralsteroid injectionsand physical therapyinthe past,but wasstillsuffering. Ihavealways been active andmybackpainwas affectingmylifestylegreatly IcametoLeBlancSpine Centerand began Decompressiontreatment andIamnow 100% improved! Ican do everything Idid beforemypain started, andmyfavoritepartabout this treatmentisthe results! Ican do allofmydaily activities without anypain. Thedoctors andstaff here have also treatedmegreat IhaverecommendedLeBlancSpine Center to manypeople. andwill continue to do so!

Mark Evans (FormerHighSchoolCoach and InsuranceAgent) Hometown -Baton Rouge,LA

Ihavebeensuffering with sharppainful back achescausing immobility foryears butcameherewhenmypainwas more severe.Ibegan Spinal Decompression treatments at LeBlancSpine Centerand Iamnow 80-90% improved! Ican stilldo my hobbies andworkwithlesspainthan before,I am also sleeping better andIhavemore mobility.Ifeelsomuchbetter! Thestaff here is alwayscaring, helpful, andaccommodating. Thedoctors are alwaysassessing andevaluatingissues trying to find asolution.One of thebest things Ilikeabout my care at LeBlanc SpineCenteristhateveryoneissocaring andthe attentivenessIreceive! Iwould 100% recommendLeBlancSpine Center, thestaff is alwaysniceand helpful.Dr. Scottand Dr.Dana have alwaysbeen proactiveand thorough when trying to find asolution!

Cory Manuel (Project Management) Hometown -Gonzales, LA

BeforecomingtoLeBlanc SpineCenter, Isuffered from lowerbackpainwhen standing andaconstantdullpaininmy lowerlefthip fornearlythree years. Ihad CT scans, an MRI, andeventriedphysical therapy, whichonlygavemesome relief.AfriendrecommendedLeBlanc SpineCenter, andI’m so gladtheydid Thedoctors andstaff are top-notchwonderful,competent,and genuinely interested in helping theirpatients.Since startingcare, I’ve improved about80% Ican nowstand longer,walk, fish,and enjoyactivitiesthatwerepreviously limitedbypain. In fact,I’m even planning twovacationsthisyear. Beforemyvisits,I felt like my world wasshrinking. LeBlanc SpineCentergavethatworld back to me andIrecommend them with enthusiasm Leonard Kleinpeter (Retired government worker andowner of Southern Hydroseeders) Hometown -Baton Rouge,LA

Dr.Scott LeBlanc, D.C. Dr.DanaLeBlanc, D.C.

Israel detains over 70 after violence in the West Bank

Soldiers made arrests during hospital raid

By The Associated Press

NABLUS, West Bank Israel’s military said it detained over 70 suspects across the occupied West Bank overnight and on Saturday, a day after troops deployed across the territory following violence that left two Israeli soldiers and four Palestinian villagers dead.

Soldiers remained in the village of Tell, in the northern West Bank, where Friday’s clashes were centered. Palestinians described searches that included raids of a hospital in the city of Nablus, one of the territory’s most violent areas Palestinians in the West Bank have faced violence as Israel’s hard-line government, dominated by settler leaders and supporters, has overseen a surge in settlement construction over the past four years. The international community over-

Friday’s events remained unclear, but Israeli media reports and interviews with local Palestinian officials suggested a group of settlers entered Tell and were confronted by residents fearful of an attack. The village is off-limits to Israelis as part of Area B under the 1993 Oslo Accords.

The Palestinian Health Ministry said Israeli soldiers shot and killed four Palestinians in Tell, while

the military reported the deaths of two soldiers, one of them a settler in a local defense squad. Two other Israelis and four more Palestinians were wounded, health officials said.

The Israeli military on Saturday said it detained 11 suspects in Tell.

Over 80 Palestinians were arrested across the territory, said Amin Shuman, president of the Palestinian higher commission for

the affairs of prisoners, calling them “an attempt to impose collective punitive measures and retaliatory policies” against Palestinian citizens after Friday’s events.

On Saturday, Israel’s military said Israeli civilians and Palestinians threw rocks in a confrontation in the West Bank village of Susya, and the weapon of a soldier on leave was stolen but retrieved.

whelmingly considers the Israeli settlement construction illegal and an obstacle to peace.

“More than 50 armed soldiers and officers stormed the hospital terrifying the patients,” Ghassan Barkat, director of Nablus Specialty Hospital, told journalists. He said soldiers on Friday detained, bound and insulted staff and patients, raided hospital departments and arrested a seriously injured man, Ali Hussein Ali

Ramadan.

“This should not happen in a healthcare institution,” said Barkat, adding that women and children were present.

An Israeli military statement did not mention the hospital, but it said over 300 locations were searched and what it described as affiliates of the Hamas militant group, arms traffickers, “terrorists” and others were detained.

The circumstances of

Wisconsin cancels events, grapples with shooting

BY SCOTT BAUER Associated Press

MADISON, Wis.

— A police shooting in Wisconsin’s progressive capital city this week put the spotlight on persistent and deep racial divisions, prompting cancellations and other changes to popular summertime events as protesters said they were determined to continue public pressure for change in Madison Corey Ruiz, who is iden-

tified as Black or Latino in Wisconsin court records, was shot and killed by a Madison police officer on Wednesday after a brief scuffle at an intersection in the city’s most liberal neighborhood just yards away from a popular 52-year-old

food co-op It marks the third time since 2012 that Madison police have shot and killed someone in the same neighborhood The shooting has sparked renewed calls for police reforms and forced the city to once again reckon with calls from the Black community to address racial justice issues. Pressure from protesters, and sympathy for their cause, has also led to the cancellation or disruption of many of Madison’s signature summertime events “Our community has spoken loud and clear: this is NOT business as usual,” Black activist Clyde Mayberry posted on Facebook on Friday amid a string of cancellations “Your deci-

sions have helped ensure that this city continues to acknowledge the pain, the loss, and the call for accountability.”

Threats of a protest on Thursday led the city to postpone the grand opening of a new public market just a few blocks away from where the shooting occurred A popular neighborhood festival near the shooting called AtwoodFest, scheduled to begin on Saturday, was also canceled in the face of potential protests. And on Saturday, the popular downtown farmers market that attracts about 20,000 people each week around the Capitol building, shut down nearly four hours earlier than usual in solidarity with protesters.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By LEO CORREA

On Saturday, a Palestinian man cleans a room of a house damaged following an attack by Israeli settlers the previous day in the village of Sarra, near the West Bank city of Nablus.

Heat dome expands across central states

Millions face dangerous conditions

BY MICHAEL PHILLIS Associated Press

WASHINGTON Temperatures hit sweltering highs across much of the central United States on Saturday as forecasters warned that dangerously hot weather from Dallas to North Dakota would push into next week, with roughly 80 million people facing heat advisories.

A heat dome, where atmospheric conditions trap heat was forecast to create sustained high temperatures and accumulating discomfort. Meanwhile overnight lows were not expected to come down enough for people to have much chance to recover, allowing heat stress to build as the bad weather lingers, forecasters said. With the high humidity, it feels even worse.

The oppressive midsummer weather was forecast to affect a huge stretch of the country from the desert Southwest to the Gulf Coast and reaching up into the Midwest and Great Plains. Some records around the Denver area could be broken, forecasters said, and temperatures were expected to be 10 F to 15 F above normal.

“It looks like it is going to be pretty much stationary in that position as we go through the week,” said Bob Oravec, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service

TRANSITION

Continued from page 1A

Attainment Network, a Cowen Institute group that provides professional development for educators including high school counselors.

For example, she said, students may get tripped up translating different types of financial aid awards. They may end up having to cover unexpected costs, like textbooks or campus parking decals.

“It’s unclear for many students, particularly those from first-generation homes or those who may not have anyone to help guide them through the offer they received,” she said.

Gonzales Washington said universities may email students who qualify for federal Pell Grants to request more information, such as a birth certificate, to verify their application. If the student misses the email, she said, their aid could be delayed or they could be on the hook for a late fee from the university Solutions

Some of the groups trying to prevent summer melt have found that many students just need someone to help them stay on top of their todo list and to help troubleshoot as problems arise.

Emmett Brown, LSU’s vice president for enrollment, said that “melt” at the Baton Rouge campus typically falls between 13% and 15% of committed students, with higher rates for out-of-state students than in-state students and first-generation students.

Brown said efforts to mitigate the melt start in the springtime when accepted LSU students are mailed a letter that clearly states the amount of financial aid they have been awarded and the esti-

ELECTIONS

Continued from page 1A

Freiberg’s new map, which she argued brings the subdistricts more in line with East Baton Rouge Parish’s racial population distribution, has two subdistricts, each of which chooses seven of the court’s 15 judges. The final seat will be elected at-large across the entire parish.

That means voters will receive a specific ballot based on whether they live in the northwestern or southeastern subdistrict. That ballot will have up to seven races to vote on from that subdistrict, as well as the one at-large race. Uncontested races won’t appear

Each race will be for a specific seat, or division, at the courthouse.

A full third of the 19th Judicial District Court’s panel is turning over making five open races with no incumbent running for reelection.

Four of those seats are coming open due to the sitting judges being older than 70 and no longer eligible to run for reelection.

Jake the Asian elephant takes a dip on Friday in a pool at the Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance as daytime high temperatures soared toward the triple-digit mark in Denver.

Hot weather changes plans

Places under a National Weather Service extreme heat warning included western Nebraska, where temperatures Saturday and Sunday were forecast to reach 108 F.

At the Museum of the Fur Trade near Chadron, Nebraska, there were fewer visitors than usual for this time of year Fur hats and pelts in the gift shop were not selling so hot.

“I’m sure no one would be willing to wear it on a day like this,” museum employee Hannah Lovelace said. Loose-fitting, period-correct fabric shirts, on the other hand, remained popular sellers among

folks headed to historical frontier reenactments called rendezvous, she said.

The region’s heat was forecast to continue through the week, with temperatures topping 100 F even in normally moderate areas of Montana and Wyoming

Las Vegas was also expected to see near record-breaking highs On Saturday when temperatures reached around 114 F in the valley, HVAC repair technician Kristian “Flaco” Santos spent hours outside fixing air conditioning units. His job involves climbing onto homeowners’ roofs or in their attics, where temperatures can be 15 degrees warmer

“It is brutal,” Santos said, adding that not everyone can work in the heat “I’m not Superman, but I do, I do take care of myself when I’m in the heat.”

Santos wears long-sleeve shirts and hoodies to protect himself from the sun, drinks lots of water with electrolytes to stay hydrated and takes small breaks to cool down.

He encouraged people who work outside to do the same.

“You want to get home to your family safe,” Santos said.

There might be some relief in the central U.S. toward next weekend, but even that might be temporary, Oravec said.

Some areas will be spared. The Mid-Atlantic and Northeast should avoid the extreme heat, as will much of the Pacific Northwest.

This is the latest miserable stretch of weather during a summer that has already had a lot of it. The eastern U.S. endured an unbearably hot early July that wforced communities to cancel Independence Day celebrations and disrupted the country’s 250th anniversary Another heat wave in mid-July hit the Southwest and Great Plains.

It’s not just the United States: A June heat wave devastated Europe, with France recording at least 5,700 more deaths than usual.

On Sunday at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, fans for the Brickyard 400 will be offered water refill stations and places to get cool, and packed coolers will be allowed. In Denver, recreation centers will set aside areas for people to get out of the heat and in front of air

conditioning.

Heat extremes are dangerous

Authorities warned that this heat dome will be dangerous. Children and older adults, along with people with medical conditions, are especially at risk of serious conditions including heat stroke. The basics are important: Seek out air conditioning or a cooling center, and make sure to drink enough water and limit time under the direct sun

The weather will shift somewhat through the week, with the worst pockets of heat becoming particularly severe across Texas and parts of the Gulf Coast by Wednesday

It can be difficult to know exactly how climate change contributes to particular events in real time. But rising carbon dioxide levels from burning fossil fuels makes it more likely that hotter weather becomes more frequent and extreme, said Andy Pershing, chief program officer at Climate Central, a climate change communications nonprofit.

“We are experiencing exactly what the climate models in the 1990s said we should experience now That is more frequent, more severe heat waves, bigger temperature anomalies, more humidity, higher overnight temperatures,” Pershing said. “These are all part and parcel of the climate story.”

The continental U.S. endured the second-hottest first half of the year on record in 2026, according to average temperature tracking by the National Centers for Environmental Information. June itself was the 18th warmest.

mated cost of tuition.

“It really helps to reduce the uncertainty,” he said Chris Yandle, a spokesperson for the Board of Regents, said in a provided statement that the state has supported several strategies for easing summer melt For example, officials have increased access to dual enrollment, which can decrease summer melt by exposing students to college life and reducing uncertainties.

Those judges are Donald Johnson, Ronald Johnson, Gail Horne Ray and Brad Myers.

The fifth seat is open after the Louisiana Supreme Court kicked Judge Tiffany Foxworth-Roberts off the bench last year for misconduct, finding she lied about her military service, an insurance claim and more.

The three-day qualifying period will run from Aug 5-7. Candidates will choose which division they want to run for when qualifying. While some have already announced their campaigns, voters won’t know the official matchups until after the qualifying deadline.

Candidates for the 15 district judge seats must live within the parish.

Candidates can choose either subdistrict to run in and which of the seven seats in that subdistrict to seek, or whether to go for the at-large seat, according to parish clerk of court officials.

Depending on where they live, voters will see one of the two subdistricts — plus the at-large seat — on their ballot, for a total of up to eight judgeships depending on how many races are uncontested.

The Board of Regents also sent personalized emails to 39,000 college-eligible high school seniors this year with information about next steps in the college admissions process and who they should contact for assistance.

Nonprofits like College Beyond, based on LSU New Orleans’ campus, also help bridge the gap between high school and college. They send mass texts to students to remind them of deadlines and

One final change coming to the district court this election is that each division will be specifically assigned to either criminal or civil proceedings, instead of the long-standing setup where judges handle both a criminal and a civil docket

The Louisiana Supreme Court directed the change in a June 17 order, saying the earlier system of mixed jurisdictions was “not consistent, transparent, or predictable.”

A parishwide race

“If I had to say who the most powerful man in America was, I’d say the president of the United States. To me, the second most powerful is the trial court judge,” said Woody Jenkins, chair of the Republican Party of East Baton Rouge Parish, speaking at a party luncheon earlier this month before a panel of both newcomers and judges seeking reelection.

To Jenkins, it is important for voters to remember that the local district court judge is the elected official with the power to separate a resident from their children or property, to imprison them and

offer one-on-one coaching.

Gabrielle Jones from Sarah T. Reed High School, right, helps intern Brenae Adams, a student at Grinnell College in Iowa and a graduate from the same high school, contact recent high school graduates to prevent ‘summer melt’ at Dillard University in New Orleans on Thursday.

Collegiate staffers have found consistency is key They regularly call students throughout the summer to make sure they’re meeting deadlines and keep detailed spreadsheets of their progress. They send Instagram messages and occasionally make house calls to reach students who stop responding. Lewis said some graduates melt because they are rethinking their decision to attend college. “I just tell them it’s worth it,” she said. Others are waylaid by the costs of campus life — including the cost of getting there. A few years ago, Collegiate’s chief of staff, Rhonda Dale, drove a student 16 hours to Case Western University after she couldn’t afford a plane ticket. “We learned there’s only so much we can do after high school,” Dale said “But this is a little bit of a bridge.”

even to order their execution.

At the July 14 luncheon, multiple challengers spoke on their reasons for running for district judge, including sitting commissioners Kory Tauzin and Jermaine Guillory, as well as attorneys Jimmy Manasseh and Elzie Alford.

Multiple sitting judges have also announced their intentions to run for reelection, including Colette Greggs, Tarvald Smith and Eboni Johnson-Rose, who suffered a state Supreme Court-ordered suspension in 2024.

For the first time since the early 1990s, East Baton Rouge Parish will elect a judge from across the entirety of the parish. Attorneys Winston DeCuir Jr and Justin DeLaune, both with years of civil litigation experience, told The Advocate they have decided to run in part because of the opening of the new parishwide judge’s race.

New district contention

As the courthouse elections draw closer, legal conflict over the existing map remains. Last year, three sitting judges Donald Johnson, Ronald Johnson

and Ray sued Gov. Jeff Landry Attorney General Liz Murrill and Secretary of State Nancy Landry over claims that the adoption of Freiberg’s new map illegally diminishes minority voting strength.

The judges argue the creation of the new map violated a federal court order and consent decree from the old judicial redistricting case by eliminating one of the two predominantly Black subdistricts. Last year U.S. District Judge John deGravelles denied the request to block the map while the litigation played out. DeGravelles also held the case until the U.S. Supreme Court had ruled on Louisiana v. Callais, which weakened the Voting Rights Act and its protections for race-based voting districts. In the local case’s latest developments, attorneys for Jeff Landry and Murrill moved to dismiss the lawsuit in May with both sides issuing arguments in early June. Their request has yet to be ruled on.

Email Quinn Coffman at quinn. coffman@theadvocate.com.

STAFF PHOTO By ENAN CHEDIAK

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By DAVID ZALUBOWSKI

Thegroups, which found a home on the encrypted website Telegram, had their own terminology —chat rooms were “kitchens,” videos “sauce.” Rival group leaders doxed eachother.Members thirsted for asteady diet of ever-lurid videos, which called for connections to overseas traffickers willing to torture living creatures on camera.Most of the footage features macaques,an ape native mostly to Southeast Asia and known for vivid, humanlikefacialexpressions.

Sincethe peak of theCOVID-19 pandemic, when federal investigators say lockdowns drove more people online and sowed the seeds of the phenomenon, U.S. law enforcement agencies have expended significant resources on stamping out transmission of the horrific content

At least30people have beenindicted across the country,including Kornienko in New Orleans and two others from the Shreveport area charged in Ohio.

“I hope this serves as a warning to others who acquire or distribute this kind of content: HSI will find you, and you’ll end up in federal court,” Todd Lyons, asenior U.S. Department of Homeland Security official, said after arecent arrest by a New Orleans-based team that has led the investigation.

Akey prong of the effortshas run through the Louisiana field office of Homeland Security Investigations, DHS’ criminalinvestigations armdedicated to uncovering transnational breaches of U.S. law, accordingtocourt records and interviews with U.S. officials

Kornienko’sarrest last summer represented a breakthrough in the agents’ attempts to unravel the grisly frontierofinternet crime. Agents discovered her roleafter theprosecution of aprominent group modera-

tor in Virginia. Theyarrested and charged Kornienko with transmitting 10 videos of monkeysbeing burned, drowned, tortured with pliers and strangled, among other violent acts inflicted in the videos.

Kornienko,who records show was due to report to federal prison last month, pleadedguilty in abid to take“full responsibility for her conduct,” said her attorney,Jarred Robinson. “She sharedthismaterial; she did notcreate it, she did not film it,and she never harmed an animal,” Robinson said.“That distinction matters, but it does not erase her accountability, and she has never asked it to.”

After Kornienko’s arrest, the NewOrleans-based agents tracked down more group moderators: agovernment-contracted aerospace engineer in CoralGables, Florida, and aveterinarian in northern Georgia.

The string of arrests eventually led the NewOrleans agentstoagreater coup: guilty pleas by aPennsylvania man and an Illinois woman thisyear,both of whom admitted to paying overseas traffickers to torturethe monkeys oncamera, supplying the footage that formed the groups’ lifeblood. Pandemic-era phenomenon

Agrowing appetite for filmed torture of apes emerged on the radar of animal welfare activists and U.S. federal investigators afew years into the pandemic.

Federal law criminalizes“animal crushing” —a catch-allterm for animal torture andvideos depictingit. Thestatute sets penalties when “living nonhuman mammals,birds, reptiles, or amphibiansare purposely crushed, burned, drowned, suffocated, impaled” or treatedinother ways that could cause their deaths.

People who wound upin Telegram groups like Kornienko’s seemed to be pulled in on YouTube and social media, said aHomeland Se-

curity agent assigned to the case who asked not to be named todiscuss theongoing investigation.

Some got hooked first on videos that weregenerally innocent, like ahandler teasing monkeys withfood. In comment sections, the agentsaid,people discussed moving to the encrypted Telegram site, where more actsofviolence could be shared freely A2023 BBCinvestigation dove intothe emerging phenomenon.

TheBritish news service followed as federal investigators traced the videos appearing on YouTube and Telegram to aVirginia man named Mike Maccartney, aformer motorcycle gang member who sported a swastika tattoo andcalled himself“The Torture King” online.

Maccartneywas arrested andadmittedina2024 guiltyplea to sending more than 300 payments to overseas videographers for footage of the “torture, murder, and sexually sadisticmutilation of animals,” prosecutors said.

Investigationgears up His arrest shocked the “monkey hate”community said the NewOrleans-based HSIagent.For many,itwas their first realization that sharing the content could be acrime. Maccartney’s adherents splinteredoff into afluid group of new Telegramchatrooms, like those runbyKornienko.

Documents filedinNew Orleansfederal courta year agodescribe 10 videos Kornienko was charged with distributing. Ranging in length from five to 41 minutes, they showed monkeys being nailedtotrees andtortured in otherways. Some videos showed multiple monkeys beingtortured at once.

Thearrests broughtnew insights into thepolitics thatshapedand sometimes cleaved the groupsapart.

Francisco Ravelo, the Florida man investigated by theNew Orleans-based agents,and Kornienko

shared adesire to keep the groups closed off to the outside world —a sense of paranoia that HSI officials said had permeated from the groups since Macartney and adozen other suspects wereindicted in aparallel FBI-run probeinOhio.

Twopeople indicted in the Ohio probe were from north Louisiana —Brady Shellhammer,who appeared onlineas“Beglu,” and Victoria Haskins,who was known as “Cat Face” and“Sparkles FancyPants.” They were accused of payingaCincinnatiman, Nicholas Dryden, for videos Dryden commissioned from aboy in Indonesia showingmonkeys being tortured andkilled.

The indictment unsealed last year accusedHaskins of soliciting suggestions online forwhattodotoa monkey named “Pav Pav.” “‘(W)eare giving aprize to the personwho can comeup withthe best torture method to PavPav!’” she wrote, according to the indictment. “Bring your favoriteadult beverage because we are also play adrinking game! it will be great fun!

Shellhammer and Haskins’ cases are ongoing. Both pleaded not guilty in arraignments last year court recordsshow

Ravelo,who speaks three languages and has adegree in aerospace engineering, railed againstusers he felt were violating thegroups’ privacy or “using my name for clout,” according to courtrecords.Hecalled for one rival to be beheaded and disemboweled.

He pleadedguilty in March, and afederal judge last month sentenced him

to five years in prison.

Prosecutors had asked for astiff sentence in lightof the “extraordinary level of pain andsuffering” which he “celebrated anddisseminated.”

“That’sthe best part!!!”

Ravelo wrote to one user who said avideoofanape’s intestines being squeezed fromits body made them squeamish. An attorney for Ravelo did not respond to a request for comment.

Joseph Buckland and Amanda LeighFourez, who were chargedinPennsyl-

vania as aresult of the New Orleans-basedprobe with paying forvideos,havealso pleaded guilty

Kornienko’sattorney said shehas focused since her arrest on her recovery so she can return to her children and her ill mother,for whom she is aprimarycaregiver.

“She is committedtoher recoveryand to becoming the person her family needs hertobe,”Robinson said. Email James Finnat jfinn@theadvocate.com.

What does it mean to take arisk? Andwhy take one when playingitsafefeels,well, safer? At itscore, risk is theuncertainty of an outcome, with thepotential forboth gainsand losses.Weencounter risk everyday,often withoutgivingitmuchthought.Getting behindthe wheel, for example, meansaccepting thepossibility of road hazards in exchange forthe benefit of reachingyourdestination

Thesameideaapplies to personal finances.Exposingassetstomarketriskcan create both opportunities andchallenges, anddetermining howmuchrisktotake dependsona person’s goals, risk tolerance, andfinancial circumstances. At GregoryRicks TotalWealth, the goal is nottoeliminate uncertainty, but to help clients understand it well enough to make informed decisions.

“Despite acommonmisconception,riskisn’t always bad,”saidGregory Ricks, founder,CEO andwealthadvisoratGregory RicksTotal Wealth.“It’s anatural part of seekinginvestmentreturns,and when managedappropriately,itcan help in thepursuit of long-termgrowth.

Striking aBalance

Findingthe rightbalance begins with recognizing that everyone’s situationisdifferentand that preferences oftenchangeasone enters newstagesoflife. When the correctbalance is foundfor an individual,itcan help them to pursue financial growth whilealsohelping to reduce thedrawbacks of market volatility

AccordingtoRicks,age andanticipated retirement timing areamong themostimportant considerations when determininganappropriate levelofportfolio risk

Onegeneral rule of thumbheusesissubtracting aperson’s agefrom100 to estimate astartingpoint forriskexposure, though actual allocationsvarybased on an individual’s goals, income needsand overallfinancialpicture

A30-year-old,for example, mayhaveaportfolio with approximately70% market exposure,while someonewho is 70 maybecloserto30%.For theportion of aportfolio invested in themarket, Ricksalsorecommends diversifyingthrough amix of investments, such as stocks,bonds andother strategies

“Being able to sleepatnight andfeelcomfortable with your financial plan is essentialwhendeterminingthe rightbalance of investment risk,” Rickscontinued Risk Capacity andPersonalized Planning Risk capacity considersnot only howmuchrisksomeonecan affordoriscomfortabletaking, butalsohow much risk maybeappropriate basedontheir financial goalsand timeline.Someone maybecomfortable with market risk emotionally, buthave short-term income needsthatrequire more stability. Anotherpersonmay be naturallyconservativebut have moneythatwillnot be needed for 20 years, giving that portionofthe portfolio more room to grow Throughin-depthconversations andestablished risk assessment tools, Ricksand histeamseektobetter understand each client’sriskprofile. To take afreerisk assessment on your own, visithttps://gregoryricks.com/ risk-assessment/ Each client receives ariskprofilescore during the first fewmeetingswiththeir team.Thatscore serves as aguideline in developing investment recommendations. AccordingtoRicks,the firmoften recommends maintainingportfolio risk toward thelower endof a client’sriskprofile.

Ariskprofilecan,and likely will,changeoverthe course of someone’slife, as financial circumstances change.Marriage, purchasing ahome, thedeath of a lovedone,divorce,and thebirth of achild canall have asignificantimpactonfinancialgoals andpriorities, making periodic reassessment an importantpartoflongterm planning “We’re very proactiveincommunicating with our clients,”Ricks said.“That’s whywemakequarterly calls to checkin. Ouradvisoryteamalsomeets everyFriday afternoontodiscuss clientsituationsand reviewpotential recommendations.

Growing Legacies

“The time horizonofaninvestmentshapesits risk,” Rickssaid. “Younger investorsgenerally have more time to recoverfrommarketdownturns andmay be able to make more growth-orientedinvestments.Asclients approach retirement,weoften adjust portfolios with a greateremphasis on preserving funds, as they prepare to pull an income from theirassets. Understanding theEmotional Side of Risk “There isn’ta one-size-fits-all solution,” Rickssaid. “The reasonyou’retakinginvestmentriskistopursue growth,but your assets canbeallocatedintodifferent segments,allowingsomeportionstopursuegrowthwhile others remain more conservative.” Financialgoals oftencarry significant emotional weight.Therefore,how someonefeels aboutmarketfluctuations is an importantpart of developing asustainable investment strategy

“Webelieve that levelofinvestmentrisktaken is ultimately apersonalchoice,”saidRicks.“Ihad aclienta few yearsbackwho carriedsomemarketriskinhis portfolio. He came to me andwantedtosubstantially reduce hismarketriskbecauseitwould make himfeelmore comfortable,and we adjusted hisportfolio accordingly.

“The most rewarding part of helping ourclients navigate risk andmarketvolatilityisseeingthemgainconfidenceand clarity, especially during uncertaintimes or majorlifechanges,” Rickssaid. “Every thank-youfrom aclientorradioshowlistener remindsusthatour work hasa meaningful impact on thefamiliesweserve and thelegaciestheyare building.”

Risk does nothavetobefearedorignored.Whenit is measured,reviewedperiodically, andaligned with aperson’sfinancialgoals,itcan become an important part of along-term financial plan.Gregory RicksTotal Wealth workswithclients to tailor investment strategies that reflect theirindividualgoals,timehorizon,and comfortwithrisk. FormoreinformationonGregoryRicksTotalWealth,or to schedule an appointment, visitwww.gregoryricks.com. This articleismeant to be generaland

Georgia swamp joins UNESCO’s World Heritage List

Okefenokee Swamp added with temple in Thailand, other sites

BY KIM TONG-HYUNG Associated Press

SEOUL, South Korea

The Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia, an ornate 13thcentury Buddhist temple in Thailand and tidal flats in western South Korea were among several sites added to the World Heritage List on Saturday at a U.N. committee meeting in South Korea.

The UNESCO meetings in Busan, which continue through next Wednesday, are reviewing dozens of other nominations, including the D-Day landing beaches in France, Mount Olympus in Greece and the ancient Japanese capitals of Asuka-Fujiwara.

Impressive biodiversity

The Okefenokee Swamp is regarded as one of the world’s largest freshwater ecosystems, encompassing a vast network of wetlands that supports exceptional biodiversity and serves as the source of two major rivers Its largely undisturbed peat beds preserve a 5,000-year record of environmental change, making the swamp both a globally significant natural habitat and a valuable source of information on long-term environmental change, according to a UNESCO description.

While the World Heritage designation places the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge alongside iconic U.S. landmarks such as the Grand Canyon, some locals have opposed the listing, fearing it would increase U.N. involvement in managing the site.

“We accept this inscription not as a finish line, but as a commitment to keep

the Okefenokee wild, resilient, and thriving for generations to come,” said Kim Bednarek, executive director of the nonprofit Okefenokee Swamp Park that’s worked with the U.S. government on the refuge’s nomination package.

Unique architecture

Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan, a 13th-century Buddhist temple in southern Thailand known for its 255-foot stupa and distinctive architecture, was also inscribed on the World Heritage List, becoming Thailand’s ninth site.

UNESCO has described the temple as an outstanding example of Theravada Buddhist architecture that remains a living place of worship, preserving religious traditions that draw large gatherings of devotees. The temple was first proposed to UNESCO in 2012, and has gone through more than a decade of preparation to meet the nomination requirements.

While the World Heritage listing is expected to dramatically increase visitors to the temple, Kanop Ketchart, mayor of Nakhon Si Thammarat City, said officials are prepared to address potential infrastructure and capacity challenges.

“We have prepared our infrastructure, buffer zoning and evacuation plan to fit all the requirements of UNESCO,” he said in an interview with The Associated Press this month. “More importantly, the people are getting used to all this process for almost 10 years. So they are very much looking forward to (it).”

Other sites

Sarnath, an ancient Buddhist site in the northern Indian city of Varanasi, was another Asian religious location newly added to the World Heritage List. Recognized as the sacred location where the Buddha

delivered his first sermon, the site’s architectural and archaeological properties remain deeply significant despite periods of decline and revival UNESCO said.

The committee also decided to expand the World Heritage listing of the South Korean “getbol” tidal flats with four additional coastal wetlands in Seosan, Goheung, Muan and Yeosu in the country’s west. UNESCO had previously inscribed four other South Korean tidal flats in 2021 for their biodiversity and crucial role as a stopover for migratory birds.

South Korea’s Foreign Ministry said the expanded designation of the tidal flats “reaffirms the importance of international cooperation for the conservation of the Yellow Sea ecosystem and the East Asian-Australasian Flyway,” a major migratory bird route that stretches from the Arctic through Asia to Australia and New Zealand.

Centuries-old handicraft porcelain industry sites in the eastern Chinese city of Jingdezhen were another new addition to the World Heritage List. The sites trace the evolution of handcrafted porcelain production in China from the 10th to the 19th centuries, showcasing innovations that helped make Jingdezhen a leading center for fine porcelain, with its blue-and-white porcelain becoming a global symbol of Chinese craftsmanship, according

to UNESCO.

The Indian Ocean island

Visitors return to Stephen C. Foster State Park after an overnight camping trip on the Red Trail in the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge in Fargo, Ga., in 2022.

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By

STEPHEN B MORTON

nation of Comoros secured its first World Heritage list-

ing after the committee inscribed six historic towns dating to the 11th century that later emerged as the principal urban centers of the country’s sultanates. UNESCO says the towns reflect centuries of cultural exchange through Indian Ocean trade networks while preserving distinctive urban traditions shaped by African, Arab and Islamic influences.

Whetheryou want to paddle peaceful bayous,sample creativecuisinefromlocalchefs,castareelinafishing competitionorexplore Louisianahistory,MonroeWestMonroeoffersplentyofreasonstoplanagetaway thisfall.Newoutdoorexperiences,annualfestivalsand one-of-a-kindattractionsmakeitanidealdestination for adults andkidsalike andpromise afullitinerary ExploreNew Waterways In June,six newOuachitaPaddlingTrails were launched:CheniereLakeJoe’s Island Trail, Cheniere Lake CypressTrail,Black BayouWest Trail, BayouDeSiard Frenchman’sBendNorth Ouachita RiverMoontoMonroeand Ouachita River Campbell’s Landing. Thesetrailscreatemoreopportunities forlocals andvisitorstoexploretheparish’snaturalwaterways. Paddlers canbring theirown vessel or rent akayak fromOuachitaPaddle&Provisions.Traversethearea on your ownortakepartinweekend paddling events fromleisurepaddlestocompetitiveraces.And,thanks to theregion’stemperate climate, theweather should be greatfor gettingoutdoorswellintothe fall months Tastethe LocalFlavor If you’re afoodie, plan your visittoMonroe-West Monroeduring2026RestaurantWeek,scheduledfor September14-20.Allweeklong,localrestaurantswill featurefixed-pricemenusdesignedtoshowcasetheir most populardishesand newest culinary creations. RestaurantWeeklunchspecialswillrangefrom$10 to $20, whiledinnermenus will be offered at $25, $35 and$50.Coffee shops, bakeries anddessert destinationswilloffer $10to$20 LagniappeSpecials. Participatingrestaurants already announced includeWaterfrontGrill,Lea’s of Monroe,and Catfish Charlie’s. CelebrateLouisiana’s OutdoorHeritage Outdoorenthusiasts won’t want to miss oneofthe region’smostuniqueweekendsAugust28-30whenthe NorthLouisianaSportsman’sExpoandWestMonroe GarRodeo return TheSportsman’s Expo is ashowcaseofeverything youneedtoenjoy life in theoutdoors, whetheryou’re pitchingatent, waitingina huntingstand or heading outontothe waterfor aday filledwithfishing. The expo willfeature thelatestwatercraft, fishinggear andoutdoor equipmentunder oneroof, making it an idealtimetorestock andprepare for your best adventuresyet ThatsameweekendistheWestMonroeGarRodeo presentedbyHoneyHole.Anglerswillcompeteinvariousdivisionssuchasjugfishing,polefishing,bowfishingand youthcategoriestocatch thegar,one of the state’smostancientandruggedfish.Thisyear’srodeo featuresanewcategory,NumbersOnlyBowfishing,to seewhich boat brings in themostgar.All registration fees willgotowards prizemoney Join TheLocalsToHonor Tradition TwolongtimeMonroe-West Monroe community favorite events arebackthisfallaswell. OnSeptember19,LandryVineyardshostsitsAnnual GrapeStompandBlackWaterBrakeConcertbeginning at 3:30 p.m. ThrowonyourbestLucille Ball costume andjointheLandryfamily fordeliciouswine, bellinis andmorewhile listeningtolivemusic.Guestscan stompgrapesfor free anddance thenight away.Bring alawnchair or picnic blanketfor when your feet need abreak!Admission is $10for adults,$4for kids ages 13-18and free for kids ages 12 andunder Just afew weekslater,onOctober 3, LazarrePark hoststhe annual NortheastLouisiana Celtic Festival wherelivemusic,Highlandgames,liveanimals,food trucks andartisansand craftspeople showcase the tradition of Celtic heritage DiscoverStories That ShapeAmerica Beyond seasonal events,Monroe-West Monroe offersattractions that visitors canenjoy

than 10,000 square feet of show memorabilia, familyartifactsandphotos,setrecreations,costumes andmore. Historyenthusiastswillfindplentytodiscoveratthe Biedenharn Museum &Gardens in Monroe.The site honorsJosephA.Biedenharn,thefirstpersontobottle

LOUISIANAPOLITICS

Senate won’ttouch billswithadded voting restrictions

WASHINGTON —Olive Garden

joined the talking points on Capitol Hill last week as U.S.House leadership attached language that restricts who can vote onto nearly every billthat cleared thelower chamber before representatives headedhome until September

Mark Ballard

The Orlando-based chain of Italian restaurants, whose current marketing pitch is “embrace the obsession,” requires photo identification to become a“Pasta Passholder” and receive unlimited pasta refills.

“Can we at least have theOlive Garden standard when we protect the democracy and the franchise that we have to keep this great democracy?” House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-Jefferson, asked his colleagues while pitchingabillinwhich he and House SpeakerMike Johnson, R-Benton, had language inserted from the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, or SAVE America Act.

President Donald Trumpinsists that Congress pass legislation that would require applicants to prove their citizenship when registering to voteand produce a picture ID when casting aballot, along withlimiting use of mail-in ballots. He refused to sign any more bills into law,including a bipartisan one aimed at lowering housing costs, until the SAVE Act passed.

Agroup of right-wingers had disrupted procedural votes required to bring an instrument, even ones they support, to the floor, effectivelystalling work in the House for several weeksand provoking the famously eventempered Johnson to reportedly cuss at one of his members.

Bits of SAVE Act wording,as appropriate to the instrument, were added to bills that fund the U.S. State Department,toOKthe National Defense Authorization Act, plus the Stop Insider Trading Act, as well as abill that setsup abudget reconciliation which, if passed, would allow the Senate

Landryraises prospect of special session

Landry

Gov.Jeff Landry said theLouisiana Legislature could hold a special session to take more control of OrleansParish courts after a grand jury there indicted Attorney General Liz Murrill earlier this month, infuriating Republican state leaders who say the now-dropped charges against her were bogus and politically motivated.

Lawmakers “want to look at ways that they can take more control of the court system in the city of New Orleans,” Landry said Wednesday during anews conference at the Governor’sOffice of Homeland Security &Emergency Preparedness in Baton Rouge. It is unclear whether keyleaders in the Legislature would be on board with returning to the

to increase appropriations with a simple GOPmajority of 51 votes instead of the 60 votes usually needed.

“Conservatives in the House of Representatives consider the SAVE America Act to be anonnegotiable, nation-saving piece of legislation,” Rep. Clay Higgins, R-Lafayette, said in astatement.

“Yet some Senators seem indifferenttothe will of the American people.The House of Representatives’ hard workonthis coreissue has produced athree-track legislative opportunity forthe Senate to getthe job done.”

But that’s notreally going to work, said Sen. Bill Cassidy,RBaton Rouge. The idea has been debatedand shotdown by the Senatesix times since January

Capitol ahead of the regularly scheduled session next spring.

SenatePresident Cameron Henry, R-Metairie,did not immediately return an inquiry and state Rep.Phillip DeVillier,R-Eunice, who serves as house speaker, declined to comment.

Landry’sremarkswere asign that the political war waged over Orleans courts in thespring won’t end anytimesoon.During the recent legislative session,the Republican-controlled Legislature passed laws cutting down onthe numberofOrleans judgeships,combining the civil and criminal clerk positions and taking fundsaway from theprosecutor’soffice. Republicans said the bills were part of along-needed right-sizing of thecity’s court system, but the changes were bitterly fought by theNew Orleansdelegation and drew theire of cityofficials, who are Democrats. They accused Republicans of unfairly targeting

2025, when Trumptook office for thesecond time.

ASAVEAmerica Act cosponsor, Cassidy said thebill needs to be expanded to incentivize participation —for instance, by forbidding closed party primaries in federal elections, like theone in May that will end his 12 years in theSenate come January He pointsout that the newly enacted May 16 closed party primary attracted only 401,174 LouisianaRepublicans, about 32% of registered GOP voters. In his last election in 2020, when theprimaries were open to all comers, 70.1% of the state’sregistered voters participated and he won with 1.2 million votes or 59% of those cast.

“Weneed to make it easier for

thecity Murrill’sindictmentstemmed from letters she sent Mayor Helena Moreno, District Attorney Jason Williams and five citycouncil members in May after the city appointed an interim clerk to head up thecombined civil and criminal clerk’soffice. That decision usurped the authority of Chelsea Richard Napoleon, the civil clerk whom the Legislature chose tohead theunified office, Murrill said, warning that the officials were breaking thelaw and could lose their jobs.

Laurie White, the special prosecutor assigned to thecase, said she would not pursue thecharges after Moreno, Williams and other city officials called for the case to be dropped, citing repercussions for New Orleans.

Special election set for Selders’ seat

Aspecial election will be held

theAmerican people to vote,” Cassidy said, adding that the bill also shouldn’trestrict use of mail-in ballots. “And right now (voters) arebeing progressively disenfranchised by people cynically using the rules to favor their particular political position.”

SenateMajority Leader John Thune, R-South Dakota, told reporters Thursday that he simply doesn’thave the 50 Republican votes necessary to advance the budget framework sent over by theHouse with SAVE language that would allot $73 billion to fund themilitary and intelligence agencies, $12 billion forfarmers and $10 billion forSAVEAct changes.

He saucily added that if Trump’sallies think it possible,

on Dec. 17 to fill the District 14 seat in the Louisiana Senate that was left vacant after Sen. Larry Selders died earlier this month. If arunoff is necessary,itwill take place on Jan.9

Candidates will qualifytorun from Oct. 14 to Oct. 16, according to adeclaration by Senate President Cameron Henry U.S. Rep. Cleo Fields, D-Baton Rouge, has said he will run forthe Baton Rouge-area seat, which he held before Selders. Fields decided not to runfor reelection after theLouisiana Legislature redrew his district to favor Republicans.

Ex-community college leader gets newjob

MontySullivan, wholed Louisiana’sCommunity and Technical College System for12years, has been selected as thenext president of the North Carolina CommunityCollege System,according to anews release. Sullivan retired from his Louisianarole in January; Gov.

they should get the president on the phone to lobby reluctant GOP senators.

Thune said he planned to hold the budget resolution and perhaps use it as avehicle in September to pass aresolution to continue operations forashort term to avoid agovernment shutdownonOct. 1.

“John Thune, in my experience, wants to pass the SAVE Act. I want to pass the SAVE Act,” Sen. John Kennedy,R-Madisonville, told reporters according to Punchbowl, anews website that focuses on Capitol Hill. “But you can’tmake people vote acertain wayifthey don’twant to vote that way. It’s called democracy.”

Email Mark Ballardat mballard@theadvocate.com.

Jeff Landry replaced him with then-Revenue Secretary Richard Nelson.

In his new role, he will oversee asystem of 58 community colleges that serve morethan 600,000 students each year.He was selected Thursday by the system’s board and will serve as acting president until the state Senate confirms him Astart date has not been set.

TomLooney, chair of the North Carolina State Board of Community Colleges, said in the release that Sullivan “has the passion, experience, vision, character,and proven record to lead our Community College System at the speed of business and innovation. We are confident he is the right leader to strengthen our 58 colleges, serve our students and employers, and build on North Carolina’sextraordinary momentum.”

ASSOCIATEDPRESS PHOTOByJ.SCOTT APPLEWHITE

Speaker of the House MikeJohnson, R-Benton, is surrounded by reporters as he heads to the chamber foraseries of votes on President Donald Trump’spriorities,atthe CapitolinWashington on Wednesday

head-to-head in medieval combat bouts

Worldchampionship competitorsfaceoff with swords,axes

BY JAMES BROOKS Associated Press

SPØTTRUP,Denmark With swords, axes and shields, competitors from 30 countries are going head-to-head in the grounds of aDanish fortress in amodern version of old-fashionedbattle.

The InternationalMedieval Combat Federation’s annualworld championship roared into gear in northern Denmark this week. FirststagedinSpain in 2014, it features armorclad competitors fighting with 14th-century medieval weapons. But it’salso a modern combat sport with safety rules andsporting conventions.

Amixture of techniques

“It’shistorically inspired,” combat federationspokesperson KamilaStudencka said. “It’sa mix of modern techniques with historical ones. We have something between full combat sports and fencing.”

“Some peoplelikethe friendship and being ateam member …to be apart of something bigger,” sheadded.

This year’s championship is being held in the shadow of Spøttrup Castle, aformidable Danish fortressthat was completed around 1520.

The event has drawn fightersfrom 30 countries, including the UnitedStates, Canada, China, and Brazil.

Brazilian competitor Rodrigo Sinckevicius, who traveled with ateamofeight from São Paulo, said he previously competed in jiu-jitsu and other mixed martial arts,but when he firstsaw this kind of medieval combat, he “couldn’tbelieve it.”

“People falling and grabbing and the sound ofthe steel cracking, it’slike something that you cannot fake,” added the 33-year-old, who worksinsales back home.

Duelsand team events

The four-day championships, which opened Thursday,see competitors battle in one-on-one“duels” made up of two one-minute roundseach.Opponentsare eliminated afterhittingthe ground three times or when they submit.Ifneither hap-

And while the swords and axes are blunted, the battles are anything but harmless reenactments.Studencka said some competitors are attracted by“theviolence,” while others prefer the technicalaspects of face-to-face duels

pens, marshals declare awinnerbased on points scored.

Thereare also chaotic mass-team events,known as “Buhurt,” in which up to 10 competitors on either side participate.

Martin Gill, from Milton Keynes, England,saidhe first gotinvolved “tohit someoneinthe face withan ax.”

“This had that kind of nicheappeal to it, that people were willing to consensually comeupand say,‘You can hit me in the face with theax, as hard as you can,’” the37-year-old geotechnical engineer said.

The IMCF says fighters wear thick, shock-absorbing paddedgarments beneath thearmor to distribute the force of impact, andthat fightsare strictly controlled by trained marshals who enforce the rules of engagement.Itsays thatoverall injury rates are comparable to thoseinmainstreamfullcontact martial arts.

Gill said almost everything the competitorswear, including his 66-pound suit of armor,ishistorically accurate. Some outfits and fighting techniques areinformed by thewritings of 14th-century Italianknight Fiore Dei Liberi and Germanfencing masterJohannes Liechtenauer

Officials: Latest Russian, Ukrainianattacks kill 15

By The Associated Press

Ukrainian attacks on holiday camps on Saturday in the partly Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia region have killed 12 people,Moscowinstalled officials said, while authorities in Ukraine’s northeastern Sumy region saidaRussian drone strike killed three people there. Thestrikes followed amajor Russian attack on Friday near Kyiv that killedatleast 10 people and wounded around100 others, part of arelentless cycle of tit-for-tat attacks that dims the potential of reaching adiplomatic end to Russia’smore than

4-year-old invasion ofits neighbor Theexchange comesas Ukraine’ssuccessful drone attacks have stalled the Russian army’sadvances in an expanded campaign by Kyiv inside Russia that has been hitting high-profile targets, causing fuel shortagesand piling pressure on Russian leader Vladimir Putin Four children were among 12 people killedinthe attack on the resorts in Zaporizhzhia, Yevgeny Balitsky, the Kremlin-installedregional head,said,adding that19 otherswerewounded. Ukraine did not immediately comment.

Sumy regional head Oleh Hryhorovsaid on Saturday threepeople were killed when alarge fire broke out after aRussian drone struck a “civilian facility,”adding that the victims were drivers for private Ukrainian postaland courier service Nova Poshta Russia’sdefense ministry said it attacked a“storage andlaunch site”for Ukrainian dronesinthe Sumy region. In Zaporizhzhia,insoutheastern Ukraine,a Russian drone attack late Friday hit ashopping center,causing a fire that spread over a 500-square-meter area and injuring several people, regional head Ivan Fedorov said.

“Wefollow manuscripts as bestwecan,” said Gill. “Everything is legitimate techniques from all of their writings throughout the 14th century.”

Agrowing sport

Nearly 600 fighters are taking part in this week’s championship. The sport, an unflinchingblend of mixed martialarts, fencing, and historical reenactment, has been growing in popularity.

Competitor Alex King, a 37-year-old financial crime specialist from Shoreview, Minnesota, said that when he first started three years ago, there were just 10 or so members in his local team. Now there are over 50.

“InAmerica, it’sdefinitely growing, with theshort videos yousee nowhighlighting the sport,” King said. “A lot of people have become interested.”

The last big event in the

U.S. featured over 40 teams, he added. Menand womencompete in separate events. Miisa Kaivos, a27-year-old bartenderfromHelsinki, Finland, said the women’sside of thesport is also “drastically growing all around the world.”

“It’samazing to see,” said Kaivos. “It’s always niceto cometothese events and fight each other,and have that awesome girl power.”

Beyond Cargo: Avondale Global Gateway’s Vision forAdvanced Manufacturing

Sittinginhis office at Avondale Global Gatewaywitha largesitemap of thepropertyonthe wall behindhim,Presidentand ChiefFinancial Officer, MatthewMancheski sees more than abustling logisticsterminal. He sees a location that is primed to take thenextstep to help customersmanufacture,process and addvalue on site

“Avondalehas evolvedfroma dormant former shipyard to aCovid-era reconstruction projecttoone of thelargest terminalsof itskindinthe nation.I thinkthe next phasefor Avondalewillfocus on moving into advanced manufacturing,”Mancheski said.“We’renot only bringing in anddistributingcargo.We’re alreadystartingtosee customerstakethat cargo, addvalue to it on site andthendistributeittotheir customers. That’s really exciting to see.”

AnthonyCleveland,Avondale’sCommercial Director, said thesite’sextensive industrial footprint, warehousecapacityand multimodal connectivity position Avondale to supportthe next phaseofgrowthfor itscustomers. Rather than shipping rawmaterials elsewherefor processing or manufacturing, companiescan locate thoseoperationsdirectlyatAvondale, reducing transportationcosts andcreating amoreefficientsupplychain.For example, steelpipeimportedthrough Avondale could be coated or treatedonsitebeforebeing transported to itsfinaldestination.Cleveland said similaropportunities existacrossarange of commoditieshandled at thefacilityincluding base metals such as copper,aluminum, lead andzinc.

“I’vebeenwithT.ParkerHostfor 14 years andhaveworkeddirectlywithAvondalesince January2021,”Cleveland said.“Oneofthe things we talk abouta lotatT.ParkerHost is theservice circle. We invest in people and give them theability to be successful, then we

providegreat customer servicewitha personal touch. That leadstohappy customers, andthe circle continues. Ithinkthatpositions us well to help Avondale tenantstakethe next step in preparingtheir cargofor itsfinalusage.” Locatedatmilemarker108 on theMississippiRiver near NewOrleans,AvondaleGlobal Gatewayhas undergone adramatictransformation sinceits 2018 acquisitionbyT.Parker Host.Today,itisa multimodal logisticshub with direct accesstoglobalshippingroutes, sixClass Irailroads andmajor NorthAmerican highwaysystems.The site includes five deepwaterdocks andmorethanone million square feet of warehousespace,supporting over 200commodities

“Customersare always impressedatAvondale’s scaleand size.They’re notusedtoseeing that in NewOrleans,” Clevelandsaid. “You can seethe wheels turningastheythinkabout how this location wouldworkfor theirbusiness. As we have continuedtoscale ouroperationsin amodernway,we’re increasingly able to talk to them abouthow advanced manufacturing canalsohappenfor them at Avondale.” Mancheski, anativeofNew Orleans, said that whileT.ParkerHostisa 100-year-old companywitha strong trackrecordalong theGulfCoast,Florida andthe East Coast, Avondale marked itslargest commitment in Louisiana.

“I thinkthe community andcustomershave seen that we have astrongworkethic andthe initiativetodrive solutions. It’s averycollaborativeatmosphere. Theheart of thebusiness is here andready to providesupport as close to thecustomer as possible,” he said.“As more customershaveseenthatovertime, they have talked to us aboutother ways they canutilize thesite. We feel we’reinapositionnow to be aone-stopshopfor them.”

ASSOCIATEDPRESS PHOTO By JAMES BROOKS Two fighters battle during the International MedievalCombatFederation’sWorld

EDUCATION

Group helps students fight ‘summer melt’

Program tackles obstacles that keeps Louisiana students from starting college

BY MARIE FAZIO

Staff writer

About a decade ago, Walter L Cohen College Prep High School achieved the unthinkable: 100% of the New Orleans charter school’s graduating seniors were accepted into college. But within months, many had dropped out. Some never even made it to campus

A year later, two Cohen educators founded College Beyond, a nonprofit organization meant to help more New Orleans students graduate from college. The work begins by tackling “summer melt,” a phenomenon where students who were admitted to college and intended to enroll don’t actually enter college in the fall In the weeks before classes start, many are tripped up by financial barriers or administrative obstacles, like registering for classes or securing housing.

ation, but a lot of students don’t really understand their financial aid offers. For example we find that students will sign up for schools they can’t afford or sign up to live on campus and they can’t afford it.

Do financial challenges keep some students from enrolling?

One of the most crucial components of our summer melt intervention is helping the students actually understand their financial aid: Do you have enough aid to afford all the things that you’ve signed up for? Are you planning on working? And a lot of students are selected for verification where they need to submit additional paperwork to prove they are eligible for the Pell Grant (federal need-based financial aid).

students going out of state, they may not have thought through expenses like getting to campus and getting their stuff to campus and those kinds of logistics. What kind of interventions does College Beyond use?

We do text campaigns throughout the summer that send blasts to students and their families to let them know about important deadlines coming up, like FAFSA submission or orientation dates. The coaches also do direct oneon-one support with the students.

triculation.

Clara Baron Hyppolite, a former mental health professional who previously worked at another New Orleans-based nonprofit that promotes college access, is the executive director of College Beyond. She recently discussed barriers that can prevent students from making it to college and how her group tries to combat summer melt.

The interview has been condensed and edited for clarity

What’s College Beyond’s origin story?

Nationally, up to 20% of accepted college students who intend to enroll don’t end up attending, according to research. The number is higher for first-generation college students and low-income students, the studies show In Louisiana, up to 15% of LSU incoming students drop off. College Beyond is one of many organizations across the state working to prevent summer melt Its staffers send text messages reminding students about financial aid deadlines, coach students through the enrollment process, and make sure they complete immunization forms and have transportation lined up.

College Beyond was founded because Cohen (College Prep) was struggling with college ma-

The year before College Beyond was founded, (the school) had 100% of their students get into college, they had 100% FAFSA completion. The CEO took out a billboard on I-10 and it was a huge celebration for the school.

What we found was that a lot of students were struggling even just getting onto the college campus.

What contributes to summer melt?

There’s so many things that happen in those few months before they get onto campus.

Senior year ends so early here that they will have gotten their acceptance letters before gradu-

WE’RE ASKING EXPERTS ACROSS THE STATE HOW TO TACKLE THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES FACING LOUISIANA

There are also different components of navigating the financial aid process for different schools. Sometimes there’s aid that hasn’t been implemented and we need to support the student in contacting the financial aid office

For students who don’t have someone they can call to talk to, the process can be really overwhelming.

What other barriers can keep students from entering college?

The financial component is probably 80% of our work. But there can be other issues that crop up during the summer. For example, we’ve had students transferring to a different institution last minute, maybe deciding they want to go to a twoyear instead of a four-year. For

Once the student has identified that they’re matriculating to college, we advertise the program so we’re able to support them starting before they even have left school. Over the summer, we have introductory coaching sessions that go over all components of enrollment and a checklist that includes making sure their FAFSA is fully completed, financial aid has been applied and that students attend orientation and have a course schedule

Have you found that these interventions make a difference?

Yes, having somebody to talk to and run these things by is such an important component in the summer melt intervention.

The difficult part is sometimes you need an existing, trusting relationship with a student. That’s something we’re hoping to work on this year with these new high school partners. We want to be a bridge for those students so they’ve had interaction with College Beyond throughout their senior year, such as in FAFSA workshops.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Alisen Reed, left, is a success coach for College Beyond, an organization that supports college students through the enrollment process and beyond.

BY MARTHA SANCHEZ Staff writer

The Mississippi coast has hundreds of dining options, including classic beach restaurants and bars. But visitors sometimes overlook these 10 spots away from the waterfront beloved by locals Here’s the list.

Long Beach Market & Deli

Long Beach Market & Deli is about 2 miles from the beach, and its menu is distinct from the Mississippi Coast’s most popular tourist dining spots. Customer favorites, according to the restaurant, include its banh mi po-boy, kogi po-boy, Korean barbecue, General Tso’s chicken, red beans and rice and falafels. It is usually bustling over the lunch hour

Inside of a converted gas station in the middle of a residential neighborhood, the restaurant serves a wide range of cuisines, including Korean, Chinese, Cajun, Vietnamese and American dishes. Its chef, Lucia van Norden, graduated from Le Cordon Bleu, the renowned culinary school.

Price: $$

Hours: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday closed Mondays.

Address: 20110 Pineville Road, Long Beach, Mississippi

Dempsey’s Seafood & Steak

Dempsey’s Seafood & Steak is in Kiln — a small but growing community about a 20-minute drive north of Bay St. Louis. Its original location in Waveland, Mississippi, was destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. But the Kiln restaurant — housed in a green tin building is busy

It’s known for big portions. Customers rave about its mac and cheese Dempsey’s says its menu features fresh, locally-sourced seafood and many dishes inspired by Louisiana It’s also part of the same restaurant family as Jack Dempsey’s in New Orleans’ Bywater neighborhood.

Price: $$

GULF COAST

Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sundays, closed Mondays and Tuesdays Address: 6208 Kiln Delisle Road, Kiln, Mississippi

Pirate’s Cove

Pirate’s Cove is just a few blocks away from the beach in Pass Christian, but it’s usually filled with locals rather than tourists. Its menu is dominated by classics po-boys, hamburgers, fries and seafood plates.

It’s beloved by broadcaster Robin Roberts and comedian Tig Notaro, who both grew up in Pass Christian.

Notaro even had the restaurant cater her wedding. Roberts recommends the shrimp po-boy

Price: $$

Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed Sundays

Address: 208 Menge Ave., Pass Christian, Mississippi

Ms. Audrey’s Southern Kitchen & Catering

Ms. Audrey’s Southern Kitchen & Catering, about a mile from Gulfport’s beachfront, serves homestyle Southern dishes to diners craving meals that are unique from

the shrimp and oysters featured in many other restaurants across the Gulf Coast

Its owner Audrey Duncan, has served customers in Gulfport for more than 25 years, and her menu features homemade fried chicken, red beans and rice and smothered pork chops. She has become a beloved staple in her neighborhood.

“People are looking for some love in their food,” Duncan told the Biloxi Sun Herald in 2022.

Price: $$ Hours: 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Monday through Friday, closed on weekends.

Address: 1526 Mills Ave., Gulfport, Mississippi

South China Restaurant

South China, about a mile from the beach in Gulfport, is unassuming. It sits off a busy road in between a McDonald’s and Gulfport High School.

But it’s a go-to spot for many locals seeking affordable Chinese food, and its dining room is often full. It features a buffet and regular menu, with dishes including orange chicken, egg rolls, fried rice and noodles. It is decorated with yellow and red lanterns.

Price: $ Hours: 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed Sun-

days

Address: 548 Courthouse Road, Gulfport, Mississippi

Blue Dog Bistro

Blue Dog Bistro expanded from its original Ocean Springs restaurant in 2023, when it opened a location on the east side of Gulfport.

It’s a popular breakfast, brunch and lunch spot that is usually busy

Its menu is divided into two categories “good dog” and “bad dog.” The “good dog” side includes healthy options like banana oat pancakes, baked avocado and egg, and a spinach and mushroom frittata.

The “bad dog” side features more indulgent meals, including cochon Benedict, banana Foster French toast and steak and eggs.

Price: $$ Hours: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, closed Mondays.

Addresses: 8829 Lorraine Road, Ste. 100, Gulfport, Mississippi and 1801-A Government St., Ocean Springs, Mississippi

Le Bakery

Le Bakery, a Vietnamese pastry shop, is beloved by locals It was one of the first businesses to reopen in east Biloxi after Hurricane Katrina devastated the Mississippi Coast.

It’s known for turnovers filled with fruits and cream cheese, and also its signature banh mi sandwiches. The bakery is a few blocks from the beach and near several casinos. It also sells affordable king cakes during Mardi Gras.

Price: $ Hours: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sundays, closed Mondays.

Address: 280 Oak St., Biloxi, Mississippi

Kim Long

This busy Vietnamese restaurant in Biloxi is filled during lunch hours with loyal customers eating pho and vermicelli. Kim Long reopened soon after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, serving residents, street cleaners, volunteers and first

responders.

The restaurant’s busiest day is Sunday, when Vietnamese families visit from New Orleans and elsewhere around the South Reviewers praise its fast service and rich flavors.

Price: $$

Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily

Address: 832 Division St., Biloxi, Mississippi

Buzzy’s Breakfast

Buzzy’s Breakfast is often busy with locals and visitors in Ocean Springs, a quaint town known for its arts scene. Buzzy’s original location in downtown Ocean Springs has since been joined by a new spot about a mile down the road.

Buzzy’s specializes in Southernstyle breakfast and lunch, including biscuits and gravy, breakfast tacos and sandwiches. Its new midtown location features an exclusive lunch menu that begins at 11 a.m.

HERALD FILE PHOTO By HANNAH RUHOFF

Guests dine on Vietnamese dishes at Kim Long in Biloxi, Miss.

U.S. previously triedpermanent daylight saving time

It lasted less than ayear

BY DEEPTI HAJELA Associated Press

NEWYORK It’s an idea whose time, as it were, may have come —again.

The twice-yearly changing of the clocks in the United States could be athing of the past if legislation currentlyinCongressthat callsfor permanent daylight timemakes it through.But even as annoying as some find the back-and-forth of the time shift in the spring and the fall, that doesn’tnecessarily mean sticking to one would go over well. America has tried it before,most recently in the 1970s, and it didn’t last.

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO In 1973, Congress passed alaw instituting permanent daylight saving time for what was supposed to be atrial periodfrom January 1974 to April 1975. It lasted until October

Now it’sa new era,one full of peopleworking at home who didn’t before —and advances in sleep

sciencethat tellamore nuanced tale.

The House of Representatives earlier this monthvotedoverwhelmingly to pass abill that makes the shifttodaylight saving time, when clocks are moved forward one hour,become permanent Currently,the shift is forward in spring and back to standardtime in fall as away to give people more daylight time in the summer evenings.

But the semi-annualchange has few fans —anAP-NORC poll last year found that only 12% of American adults were in favor of it, whilealmost half opposed it.Proponents of asingletime include theAmerican Medical Association and American Academy of Sleep

Medicine —outfits to whom daily rhythmsare deeply important.

The Senate would have to pass it before it could be signedinto law. President Donald Trump hasindicated he’ssupportive.

People may not like making the change, but history shows they also don’tlikelivingwitheven less morning light in thewinter months, when daylight hours are shorter than in summer

In 1973, Congress passed alaw instituting permanentdaylight savingtime forwhatwas supposed to be atrial period from January 1974 to April 1975. It lasted until October, when it was repealed afterpublic outcry.Among the concerns was worry that schoolchildren wouldhave to gettoclass in darkness. These days, school start

times have shifted later

Kevin Birth, aprofessor of anthropology at Queens College whose research focuses on cultural concepts of time, wasinelementary school in Syracuse, New York, at the timeand remembers it vividly.“Ihad to get up forschool and it was like it was midnight,”he said. “It was just pitchblack and it remained pitch black into the school day.”

If the U.S. decides to try it again, he said, more has to change than just theclocks. The time zones acrossthe country would need to be adapted as well. Thecurrent four zoneswouldn’tbeadequate —they cover so much ground that sunrise comes at different times in western and eastern parts of each zone.

BY MARCIA DUNN AP aerospace writer

CAPE CANAVERAL,Fla. America’smost daring, extraordinary feat —landing astronauts on the moon —remains the pinnacle of achievement by anyone anywhere. Ever And the lunar lander—a groundbreaking piece of America —isupthere still, far away NASA put12men on the lunar surface more than half a century ago, beginning with Apollo11’sNeil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin. The two became the firsthumans to explore another world when their lander, bearing the patriotic name Eagle, settled onto the Sea of Tranquility on July 20, 1969. “The Eagle has landed,” Armstrong radioed as aspellbound Earth erupted in cheers and tears.

Just 61/2 hours later came themostmomentous and memorable line of all. Armstrong descended the ladder and stepped ontothe gray,gritty dust:“That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”

pictureofBuzz Aldrin Jr alunar module pilot, during the Apollo 11 lunar surface extravehicular activityonJuly 20,

At 23 feet, the Apollolunar module st alittle taller than agir and looked just as ungainly It had two sections:alower descent stage with four legs and an upper stage that housed thecrew.The descent stage got the moonwalkers to the lunar surface and remained behind as the men blasted back

Challenger. Itsmoon landing nixed, Apollo 13’slunar module Aquarius was turned into alifeboat that gotits crew of three safelyhome. The ascent stages are scattered all over themoon—smashed to bits, no longer needed once themoonwalkers were back inside the commandmodule Some speculate, however, that Apollo 11’sascent stage might still be orbiting. For NASA’snew Artemis program, private businesses are handling lunar lander details and operations.

Elon Musk’sSpaceX and Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin are scrambling to get their landers readyfor adocking test in low-Earth orbit with aNASA crew capsule next year If Artemis III’sdocking rehearsal goes well, NASA

School Board faces large turnover

BY ANNAKATE FREELAND Staff writer

For the first time in Ascension School Board history, term limits will reshape the governing body, making a significant shift in leadership for one of Louisiana’s largest school districts. Five of the 11 board members

cannot seek reelection this fall because they have reached the maximum three consecutive terms allowed under a measure approved by Ascension Parish more than a decade ago.

The departing members are Robyn Delaney Julie Blouin, John Murphy, Taft Kleinpeter and Louis Lambert.

This election cycle will be the first time in the history of the Ascension Parish School Board that term limits will impact its members.

The term limits stem from a 2012 Louisiana law requiring each parish to decide whether to limit school board members to three consecutive four-year terms. As-

cension voters approved the measure, with the term count beginning Jan. 1, 2014. While all 11 seats will appear on the Nov 3 ballot, the fi

nance, state accountability systems, capital projects, the bond process and the many responsibilities of the board,” he said. Bercegeay said another concern is maintaining momentum on projects that span multiple years. Still, he

FIRST LOOK

BY AVERY WHITE Staff writer

BY DAVID J MITCHELL

29:11 Academy creates a community hub in

BY AVERY WHITE Staff writer

On a quiet street in north Baton Rouge, a community mentor is converting houses to help families in need and giving back to his childhood neighborhood.

Tremaine Sterling co-founded 29:11 Academy 12 years ago to mentor children and reach out to families, offering counseling, summer programs and hands-on life training. The name comes from the Bible verse Jeremiah 29:11, Scripture that

STAFF PHOTOS By MICHAEL JOHNSON

Ryder Fields, 4, tries his hand at driving a St. George Fire Department ladder truck during First Responders Day at Dick’s House of Sport on Saturday. The event was a chance for residents to meet and thank local responders, tour their emergency vehicles, participate in games, activities and more.

A child draws a picture on a thank you banner to the Baton Rouge Police Department at First Responders Day on Saturday.

EMT Rebecca Rittell shows 6-year-old Mosley Mcclain a blood pressure monitor while in the back of an ambulance at Saturday’s event.

Lafayette looks to end panhandling

Residents urged to give through nonprofits

BY KRISTIN ASKELSON Staff writer

Lafayette officials are urging residents to donate through nonprofits instead of roadside giving.

Lafayette Consolidated Government is urging residents to support local organizations that serve people experiencing homelessness instead of giving money to panhandlers at intersections.

The “Change the Way We Give” campaign aims to improve public safety while connecting people experiencing homelessness with organizations that can provide long-term assistance, according to LCG.

Mayor-President Monique Boulet said the initiative encourages residents to direct their generosity through volunteering, donating supplies, serving meals or making financial contributions to organizations that provide housing, behavioral health

services, employment assistance and other support.

Officials said roadside exchanges can create safety hazards by causing drivers to slow down, stop or become distracted while people solicit donations near traffic. The city recommends residents support organizations such as the Acadiana Regional Coalition on Homelessness, Catholic Charities of Acadiana, Acadiana Cares and Louisiana 211.

Residents can also report nonemergency concerns involving people experiencing homelessness through the ARCH outreach reporting tool so outreach workers can connect individuals with available services, according to LCG. Emergencies should be reported by calling 911.

Under Louisiana law, it is illegal to solicit or panhandle on interstate highways, entrance and exit ramps and public rightsof-way, including public roads and sidewalks authorities said. LCG said the Lafayette Police Department will continue emphasizing education

while enforcing applicable laws when violations create safety hazards.

Police Chief Paul Trouard said panhandling in active intersections poses risks to motorists, pedestrians and the people seeking donations.

The campaign is part of the Boulet administration’s broader efforts to address homelessness through housing, behavioral health services and coordinated outreach.

According to LCG, the administration has awarded more than $2 million in Community Development grant funding for housing and homeless service programs since Boulet took office.

The city also said six of the 12 participants in the 12 Together Coalition, a collaborative initiative focused on people who frequently rely on emergency and public services, have been placed in housing. LCG also continues installing no trespassing and no loitering signs at Lafayette Transit System bus stops.

Email Kristin Askelson at kaskelson@ theadvocate.com.

Woman accused of extortion in AI scheme

BY BLAKE LESCHBER Staff writer

A woman was arrested in Livingston Parish, accused of distributing artificial intelligence-generated nude photos and videos in an extortion attempt after investigators initially thought she was a victim of the scheme.

Haydee Ortiz, 29, of Marrero, was booked into the Livingston Parish Detention Center on five counts of

extortion along with counts of unlawful dissemination of AI nude photos, online impersonation, stalking and injuring public record.

She has since been released on a $150,000 bond

Detectives with the Livingston Parish Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force were assigned to help in the case that involved online/phone threats, harassment and extortion.

Livingston Sheriff Jason Ard said one victim was threatened with

rape and other bodily harm unless they made a payment.

One of the victims had AI-generated photos and videos sent to family members and friends, police said. Another victim was threatened with losing her job, police said.

Ard said search results and subpoenas from platforms allegedly used to make the threats started coming back, which led to the questioning of Ortiz. She was first believed to be a victim herself. In an

interview detectives learned that Ortiz was the person who made all the threats and AI-generated nude photos, police said.

“Haydee’s devices were seized, and future charges may be pending,” Ard said in a statement. The investigation is continuing. Anyone who believes they may have been a victim can reach out to the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office at (225) 686-2241 or submit a tip via its app.

Arrest made in deadly Blue Grass Drive shooting

A man has been arrested in a fatal shooting on Blue Grass Drive in late June, Baton Rouge police said. Traylon Duncan, 18, was booked into East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on counts of principal to second-degree murder and obstruction of justice in the shooting of 19-year-old Kaleb Stampley on June 28 in the 7000 block of Blue Grass Drive. Detectives learned that Stampley met with the suspect in a dark-colored vehicle. The two then exchanged gunfire, police said. Anyone with information related this homicide is encouraged to contact the Violent Crimes Unit at (225) 389-4869 or Crime Stoppers at (225) 344-7867.

CRIME BLOTTER staff reports

BOARD

Continued from page 1B

said he believes the district is positioned to manage the transition because six members are still eligible to serve.

While knowledge can be lost due to limited terms, Bercegeay said term limits can bring fresh perspectives and new approaches to solving challenges, because new members often bring different professional backgrounds and experiences

FAMILIES

Continued from page 1B

Sterling has taken to heart, mentoring and growing potential in the community

“It says, ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to give you hope in the future,’” Sterling said. “That’s what I mean by everybody has potential, but can you meet your purpose? ‘I know the plans I have for you’: There’s a purpose attached to that.”

Using holistic practices that focus on the mind, body and spirit through counseling and outreach, the academy looks to build up students and families for success, and the newest program in the initiative is providing housing opportunities.

“The purpose of us in the housing world is to go from building people to building homes for the people we’re building,” Sterling said.

that can strengthen board discussions.

He said term limits have benefits because they encourage greater civic participation by creating regular opportunities for community members to seek public office.

Decades of service

Among the five members leaving the board is John Murphy, who has served for nearly 24 years, making him the longest-serving term-limited member

“It’s like a gift,” he said.

With everything the academy offers, the organization realized all that was missing was housing, Sterling said. It began working to buy property around five or six years ago and preparing to build two years ago. Starting with one lot, it has expanded to purchasing several more pieces of land on the block. Now, the academy has a duplex and a smaller house that are available to people trying to get back on their feet, whether they are single-parent families, veterans or those looking for safety from domestic abuse situations.

Sterling selected his childhood home on North 15th Street as the starting point for the project, with the objective to continue the program on the street where he grew up. The home had fallen into disrepair since he lived there, but he knew that it was where he wanted to start.

“My mom was an alcohol-

One dead, one wounded on Oswego St., police say

A 16-year-old is dead and a second person injured after a Friday night shooting on Oswego Street, according to Baton Rouge police. Officers responding to the 3800 block of Oswego Street about 8 p.m. found Braelyn Anderson, 16, on the ground near a vehicle, suffering from gunshot wounds, the Baton Rouge Police Department reported. He was transported to a hospital, where he died from his injuries. A second person was found in the 3800 block of Wyandotte Street with at least one gunshot wound. He is expected to survive. No suspects or motives have been developed at this time. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at (225) 344-7867.

“Over 20,000 people in my district and they’ve shown me their support for 24 years. That’s a big deal to me.”

Murphy, a former teacher and coach, said he first sought office in 2002 because his children were in the school system.

During his tenure, Murphy has served six terms with five different superintendents. He said even with different leaders and board members, each has had the same goal of bettering Ascension Parish schools.

ic; I had brothers on drugs. This house came with a lot of pain, now it’s coming with a lot of purpose,” Sterling said “This is a community that gave me so much hope, so I want to be able to start where I believe they need it.”

A hub for activities

After buying the property, Sterling secured a grant from Home Depot that supplied everything the academy needed to bring the house back to life. Over Martin Luther King Jr Day weekend in 2025, 200 volunteers came together to redo the house, and now it is unrecognizable. Completely redone and a functioning home again, the spot has since become the hub for activities within the organization, hosting counseling sessions, planning meetings, snacks for people coming in, and even a washer and dryer for those unhoused in need of clean

Murphy said that although term limits prevent him from seeking another term, he already knew that the past four years would be his last.

“I knew that I was not going to run, even with term limits, that this would be it.

I’m 61 years old now, and I felt I’ve done my service,” he said. “I’ll be there for whatever they need, but it was just time.”

Two of the other board members who are term-limited declined to comment on the election or their tenure,

clothes.

Since completing the build, the academy has bought around 10 properties in the same neighborhood, and along with the duplex, smaller home and community hub, they have plans to build more, taking the process slow to make it debt-free.

“Our goal is to do it one property at a time with one partner at a time to make an impact for one family at a time,” Sterling said.

Sterling highlights that this project is not for profit, but to help the community Residents of the homes go through an application process and pay rent at a reduced rate.

“I think many times when we think about people coming into neighborhoods, it’s about them building something for themselves,” Sterling said. “I don’t need to do this; this is not how I pay my bills. This is a calling from God for me to serve a com-

grant to designers, will focus on the parkway at Harding Boulevard, Interstate 10 and Veterans Memorial Boulevard near the airport. The initiative will feature projects like public art, enhanced lighting, restriping of existing tennis and pickleball courts, decorative fencing and a gateway mural structure that will house an entrance art installation.

The city’s Office of Community Development wants community organizations and artists to take the lead in creating and executing the designs because they believe the designers would bring a better vision to the area.

“We’re good at what we’re good at. We’re not good at what we’re not good at, and we’re not artists; we’re not designers,” LeDuff said. “So, we want them to be able to come in and make it something amazing like other large cities.”

Metro Council member Anthony Kenney, who represents the area, hopes artists will take the opportunity to highlight Scotlandville and Baton Rouge to those visiting.

“We want artists who can really show the vibrancy of Scotlandville, but also the vibrancy of Baton Rouge,” Kenney said. “We really want artists who know the pulse of the community who know the vision of what it could be, and what should be the very first impression when somebody comes to Scotlandville, somebody comes to Baton Rouge.” While the main goal of the initiative is to create a good first impression for visitors, the city also hopes youth from the area and university students will take advantage of the revitalized area once it’s finished. LeDuff looks toward bigger cities that have also done similar beautification projects, like Austin, Texas, and Atlanta for inspiration, LeDuff said.

“We talk about keeping our young talent at our universities here in Baton Rouge. They need ways to spend their time in the afternoon,” LeDuff said. “This is much bigger than the art project This is about quality of life and helping that overall transformation of Baton Rouge.”

After several new developments and revitalization projects have been announced or have broken ground in recent months, this project is part of what Kenney calls a change in Scotlandville.

and two others could not be reached for comment.

Qualifying for the upcoming election opens Aug. 5 and closes Aug. 7 at 4:30 p.m. Voters will elect all 11 Ascension Parish School Board members on Nov 3.

All 11 members run in a district that is defined by approximately one-eleventh of the parish’s voting population.

Eligible candidates must live within the boundary of the district where they qualify to run.

munity.”

With the housing program, the academy is continuing its other programs, living by the acronym HOPE Helping Others Push Everyday — and reaching out to mentor students and families for success.

“It’s definitely a renaissance of the area, of the community, that has been all coming for a very long time,” Kenney said. “The good thing about it, a lot of people are seeing the progress and want to be a part of the progress that’s going on.” Grant applications open Friday and close Aug. 21. Applicants are requested to submit a detailed proposal on how to improve the area. A panel of judges will then go through the applications and select designs to begin the contract bidding process and construction. The beautification process is expected to be completed around January

“We build, coming all the way up to take them high and elevate them into a family that really flows and functions in the way that they were called individually and created to be, so they collectively as a family stay together and keep building beautiful, lasting legacies,” said DeShannon Quiett-Burrell, director of family engagement and family services In the 12 years the 29:11 Academy has been in operation, it has served 34,000 people through its mentorship and assistance programs. Many students in the program go on to college and work; others will come back to mentor another generation of students. Director of Student Leadership Erion Davison was among the mentees who came back to mentor another generation of students.

“You have to really have a heart for it to still be able to drive for the mission and the vision of the organization,” Davison said. “It’s tough, but you still have to love the work that comes with it. You don’t mind how tough and hard it is to get (the mission) because you understand the benefit behind it.”

STAFF FILE PHOTO By LESLIE WESTBROOK

Lafayette is asking residents to quit giving money to panhandlers.

dumps and keeping waste tires out of municipal landfills,the DEQprogramuses fees consumers pay when they buy new tires to fi-

alarge illegaltiredump in New Orleans East. This spring, the Legislature adopted aresolution sponsored by state Rep. Alonzo Knox,R-New Orleans, forming atask force with multiagencyand community group representation to studythe problem. Staffed by DEQ, the task force must have itsfirst meeting by Sept. 1.

In 2025, Liberty Tire says, it collected 219 million tires nationwide,reclaimed 4.8 billion tons of rubber and was able to put 81% ofthat materialinto nationwide reuse markets ranging from road material to yard mulch and bordering.

The company has an agreement with Walmart to take tires that the national retailer collects from its automotive shops and to recycle the rubber into gardening products sold at the stores. Liberty Tire also provides similar recycled yard products to Home Depot, company statements say The companyhas also worked with an Alabama mill to test the use of waste tires to supply carbon for steelmaking, it says Liberty Tire, which is in the $60 billion global portfolio of ISquared Capital, aMiami,Florida, private equity firm, has agoal of reaching 100% reuse of the waste tires it collects by 2030.

Company officials said their purchase of Colt and twoother companiesin Texas will give them the ability “to provide integrated tire collection, processing and recycled material solutions throughout the Gulf Coastwhile increasing capacity to meet growing customer demand for sustainable end-of-life tire management.”

“Welook forward to combining our expertise with their proven success to provide customers across the Gulf Coast with expanded capabilities, stronger regional service, and new opportunitiesfor sustainable end-of-life tire management,” said Thomas Womble, chief executive officer of Liberty Tire.

In the statement, company officials said they would retain the senior leadership of the companies they were buying. Neither the sale price nor what LibertyTire plansto do with Louisiana tires was disclosed, though acompany spokesman saidLiberty Tire had previously used some of Colt’swaste tire supply Officials at Colt, which is based in Scott andhas a NewOrleans office,didn’t return calls for comment.

DEQ officials said Liberty Tire officials have informed them that the company didn’tplan any major changes from Colt’s operations at least for the next few years. Greg Langley,anagency spokesman, declined further comment Wednesday Aimed at reducingtire

Funerals Today

AlexanderIII, William ResthavenFuneral Home,11817 JeffersonHighway,at3 p.m

Obituaries

Babin, Mae Wade

Mae Wade Babin, a longtime resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and morerecently of Sugar Land, Texas, passed away on July12, 2026, at theage of 91. She waspreceded in death by her husband, J. L. Babin, Jr., and her parents, Bob and LauraWade. She is survivedbyher sons, Dean(Michelle) Babin and Ricky (Tina) Babin; five grandchildren; and eleven great-grandchildren. Mae enjoyed quilting,fishing and spending time with her grandchildrenand great-grandchildren. She especiallylooked forward to weekend fish fries and theBourrégames that followed. Visitation willbe held on Saturday, August 1, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Rabenhorst Funeral Home East, 11000 Florida Blvd.,Baton Rouge, LA 70815. Burial willfollow with abrief graveside service at Resthaven Gardens of Memory, 11817 Jefferson Hwy., Baton Rouge, LA

Virginia"Ginny" Gail Calvit, 80, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, June 27, 2026, surrounded by lovedones. BorninBaton Rouge on January24, 1946, Ginny spent most of herlife in thecity she cherished She graduated from BatonRouge HighSchool in 1964 and later retired from theEast Baton Rouge Parish School System, where she served as adedicated Teacher's Aide.Her patience, kindness, and steady presence touched countless students over theyears.

Ginny found joyinmany creativehobbiesthroughout herlife.She loved reading romance novels and short stories, crafting elaboratefloral wreaths, sketching, collecting small trinkets, and practicing calligraphy. Each of these passions reflected her gentlespirit and her appreciation forbeauty in everyday moments.

Some of hergreatest joys came from spending time with her family, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren. She loved to travel,fish withher son, and explore new places, butshe was just as content sharing abeerand a laughather favorite restaurant or barwithfa-

miliar faces, or waking up for amidnight cup of coffee.Ginny welcomed everyone with an open heart. She had aremarkableway of making people feelaccepted and considered most of her closestfriends as family.She willbedearly missed by allwho knew her. Virginiaissurvivedby her children, Brian Gardiner, Jessica Faris (Jeremy), AprilFaris, second husband Nicholas Faris, her grandchildrenJessica Sterling(Herbert), Tyrone Girod III, PhillipGirod,and Mick Sanchez. Her Great Grandchildren InoriSterling, Mateo Sterling, Roxas Sterling,and Saiyuri Sterling. Her sisters Martha "Marti" Daniels and Charlotte"Charlye"Calvit and many nieces, nephews and cousins.Preceded in death by parentsThomas Edgar Calvit and Lorretta Mary Arbour Calvit, Brothers Thomas O'Malley Calvit (Rosemary), David Brantley Calvit(Jan), Sisters Mary Sue Calvit, Lynda Frances Browning (Donald),and Loretta Rose Calvit.

Memorial service to be held at St. Patrick's CatholicChurch on SaturdayAugust 1st,2026. Visitingat10:00 am, Mass at 11:00 am withreception to follow.

Gretchen Thistlethwaite Gottfried passedaway peacefully on June 27, 2026, in GoldenValley, Arizona, at theage of 98. BornonAugust 5, 1927, in Opelousas, Louisiana, Gretchen was thedaughter of Dwight Thistlethwaite and Rosa Hebreaud.She grew up in Louisiana and graduated from Louisiana StateUniversity, where she begana lifetimeoflearn-

ingand service to others.

Gretchenwas known for hergenerous spirit and commitmenttohelping those in need.She devoted many years as avolunteer with Volunteers of America,findinggreat fulfillment in serving hercommunity. Shewill be remembered for herkindness, resilience, and thelove she shared with herfamilyand friends throughout her long andremarkable life. Shewas preceded in death by herparents;her belovedhusband, Nathan Gottfried; andher children, CharlieWilsonJr. and GretchenGuillory

Gretchenissurvived by herchildren, Charlotte Asher,Dwight Wilson, DuaneWilson, andGreer Cowan; herstepdaughters, Debbie Hayesand Judy Kinsman; hermanygrandchildren, great-grandchildren,extended family members, and dear friends.

Gretchen'slifewas one of compassion,strength, anddevotion to herfamily. Herlegacy lives on through the generations she nurtured and the countless lives she touchedthrough hergenerosity andservice

Herfamilyisgrateful for themany years they shared withGretchenand will forever cherish the memories of herlove, wisdom, andgentlespirit.She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In accordancewith Gretchen'swishes, no formal serviceswill be held

Herfamilyasks that she be remembered in thesimple acts of kindness and generosity that she practiced throughout herlife.

Dale Edward Gray, aresidentofZachary, passed away on Tuesday, July 21, 2026 at hishomesurrounded by hisfamily. He was92 years, 2months, 1week and1 day old. He was retiredfromGeorgiaPacific. Visitation willbeonMonday, July 27, 2026 at Charlet Funeral Home, Zachary from 6pm until8pm. Visitation continues Tuesday, July 28, 2026 at Zachary ChurchofChrist from 1030am untilservice at 1130am. Burial will be in Louisiana NationalCemetery. He is survived by his children, DanE.Gray and wife, Tina; DonnaGray Brown and husband, Ricky, andDougGray andwife Denise JelksGray. Brother,

Gray, Dale Edward 'Eddie'

Gottfried, Gretchen Thistlethwaite

Calvit, Virginia Gail 'Ginny'

4B

■ Sunday, July26, 2026

■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

David Gray and wife, Linda Grandchildren, Danny E. Gray, Deidre Gray Mansur, Dana Brown Sanchez, Jason B. Brown, Clint E. Gray

Danielle GrayO'Neil. Great Grandchildren, Drake Mansur, Shelby Mansur, Bryson Sanchez, Brady Sanchez, Walker Brown, Lilah Gray, Deacon Gray, AidenO'Neil and Alex O'Neil, Shelbie, Tyler, and Hudson Brian. Daleisprecededindeath by his wife of 64 years, Grace Milburn Gray and his parents, William Curtis and Matina Edna Gray. Pallbearers will be his grandsons. Honorary pallbearers will be his great grandsons. Dale was adevout Christian and amember of Zachary Church of Christ for over 60 years. He enjoyed hunting and fishing. Special thanks to St. Joseph Hospice and AMG Specialty Hospitalfor all the care and compassion given to our father. Share memories at www.CharletFuneralHome. com.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Frank Gresham, age 77. He was lovingly surrounded by his family after several years of illness. He was born in Simpsonville, South Carolina, where he attended Hillcrest High School. Frank received his B.S. from GeorgiaState University, and his master's degree and Ph. Dfrom University of South Carolina.He is coauthor of Social Skills Improvement System (SSIS) and has written over 250 journal articles books, and book chapters Frank began his teaching career as aProfessor of School Psychology at Iowa State University in 1979.He continued his teachinguntil he retired in 2021.In those years, he started the Doctoral Programs in School Psychology at Louisiana State University (1981), Hofstra University (1989), and University of California, Riverside (1991). In 2005,hereturned to LSU where he taught until retirement. Frank received many accolades and awards in the academic world including the Lightner Wilmer Award and the Senior Scientist Award.He is survived by his beloved wife of 35 years,Laura Harrell Gresham; his children, Lukas Gresham, Matt Gresham, Jill Gresham (Ashley), Julie Gresham Foley (Ryan); grandchildren, R.J. Foley, Will Foley, and Gwyneth Foley; his loving sister, Judy Gresham Gault (Jimmy); niece, Tracy Gault; sister-in-law, Judi Cazedessus (Camille), brother-in-law Brad Harrell (Audrey). He was preceded in death by his parents, Metz Lanford Gresham and Julia Caroline Maynard Gresham. There will be a small graveside serviceat ResthavenGardens of Memory, 11817 Jefferson Hwy in Baton Rouge, on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at 10:00a.m. Familyand friends are invited to aCelebration of Life Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.

For more informationand to view the extended obituary, please visitwww.rest havenbatonrouge.com.

Landry,Julius Wayne

JuliusWayne Landry, 90, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, passed awaypeacefully surrounded by his loving family. Alifelongresident of Baton Rouge, Juliuswas agraduate of Dutchtown High School, spent time in the National Guard, and retiredafter manyyears as an operator at Ormet in Burnside. He enjoyed gardening,raising cattle, and spending time with his family. He is survivedby his devoted wifeof65 years, Charlotte Rivault Landry; his sons,Brett Landry and DavidLandry; and numerous family members and friends who willmiss him dearly. He was preceded in deathby his parents, Joseph Landry and Claudia Broussard Landry. The family extends sincere gratitude to Audubon Hospice,especially Ingrid Sonya, Gail, and Dr. Richard Lieux for their compassionate care and support. Visitation will be held Monday, July 27, 2026,from9:30 a.m. until Mass of Christian of Burial at 11:30a.m. at Most Blessed Sacrament CatholicChurch, 15615Jefferson Highway, Baton Rouge. Interment will follow at Resthaven Gardens of Memory. Pallbearers honoredtoserve: James Kennison, Rick Banker, Brian Sholar,Ray Banker, Drew Sholar,and Ron Banker. Honorary pallbearer:Harold Braud. In lieuof flowers, memorial donationsmay be made to Most Blessed Sacrament CatholicChurch.

With profound love,we celebratethe lifeofour beloved mother, Ethel Vigier LeBlanc, who passed awaypeacefully in her home on July 21, 2026at the remarkable ageof103 years old. She wasborn on August 7, 1922 and lived a longlifeoflove, faith, and devotiontoher family. She dedicated herlifetocaring forthose she lovedand createda home filled with warmth and cherished memories. Shewas anativeofWhite Castle and longtime resident of Donaldsonville. Now, left to carry on the spiritofthis incredible role model are her four children, Judy Hidalgo, Don LeBlanc, Janet

Detlefs (Phil) and Cathy Guidry. She willliveinthe heartsofher nine grandchildren, greatgrandchildren and great, great grandchildren. She is also survivedbyher sister, Rosemary Zumo. She is preceded in deathbyher husband of 58 years, Lawrence LeBlanc; three son-in-lawsGary Hidalgo, Richard Burtt,and Al Guidry; her parentsVernon and Gladys Vigier; and,her sisters,Virgie Panepinto, Gladys Palermo,and Nellie Mae Bolotte. The family request visiting hours be observed on Monday, July 27thfrom 10:00am to 12:00 at St.Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, Donaldsonville. Mass of Christian burial to follow at noon The family is grateful for her days spent at home with thelovingcare of her family,Pinnacle Hospice and sitters ChrisCalvaruso and DorisHebert

Gene A. Martin, 73, of BatonRouge,passed away peacefully July21, 2026. BorninWoodville, MS, to thelate William Jr.and Victoria Martin. Gene grew up with astrongworkethic and adeeplove for his family.Heisanalumnus of ScotlandvilleHighSchool class of 1971. Post graduation, Gene served his country in theUnited States Marine Corps1971-1974.

Gene completedanapprenticeship in 1981 within theElectrical Industry and worked as an electrician for over 35 years retiring with Total Petrochemicals as aSr. Electrician. Additionally, Gene maintained membershipwiththe International Brotherhoodof ElectricalWorkers(I.B.E.W)

Local 995.

Gene was adevoted member of Greater King David Baptist Church for 50+ years serving as an UsheronSenior Usher Board. Gene was also adutiful member of theBonnette-Harrison American Legion Post 502. He was known forhis willingness to assist, his dedicationto his family,and for always providing greatconversation withlaughs;hewas also an enthusiast of Jazz &Reggae Gene is survivedbyMargaretMartin withwhom he shared 33 years of matrimony,their children, Patrick, Alvin, Gene III, Amber; and Ryhesha M. Dunn; and 9grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren; and siblings4 sisters,2 brothers. He was preceded in death by son Gene Martin Jr., parents WilliamJr. and Victoria Martin, and two brothers Raymond Martin andMichael Martin. A memorial servicewilloccur 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on 2026-07-29 at Greater King David Baptist Church, 222 Blount Rd

Murphy, Agnes

Mrs. Agnes Murphy, was born on September 23, 1934, in Grand Coteau, Louisiana, and entered into eternal rest on July20, 2026, from natural causes. Mrs. Murphy was the beloved motherofthree sons, Rev. LionelMurphy, Jr., Richard Jerome Murphy, and Carl Linn Murphy She cherished her role as a mother and took great prideinher children and thelives they built. Her love extended beyond her sons to her largeand treasured family,which includes 12 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, and 11 great-great-grandchildren.She was asource of wisdom, encouragement She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband,Lionel Murphy, Sr.and six siblings. Their memory remained close to her heart,and she carried theirinfluence with her throughout her life. Though she experienced loss, she continued to trust in theLordand remained a faithful witnesstoHis sustaining grace. Her life reflected thestrength of a woman who understood thevalue of family,prayer and perseverance Mrs. Murphyretired fromHolyFamily Catholic Church after 23 years of service.Her years there were marked by dedication and faithfulness, and she was respected forher dependable workand kind manner.

May her soul rest in eternal peace,and may the Lord grantcomfort and strength to allwho loved her.

Acelebration of life will be held at 11:00 AM on 2026 -07-29atHolyFamily CatholicChurch, 319 N. Jefferson Ave. Aburialwillbe held at St.John Baptist CatholicChurch, Cemetery.

Neyland, Ozelia Emily Blanco 'Keetsie'

Ozelia EmilyBlanco Neyland, lovingly known as "Keetsie"passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 23, 2026. She was 74 years old anda resident of Zachary. Shewas aformer employee of PALA Interstate. Keetsie is now peacefully reunited with theabsolute love of her life, herhusbandJerry. The pairmet when Keetsie was just 15 years old andwere entirely inseparable from that momenton, sharinga beautiful 54 years of marriage. FollowingJerry's passing on March3,2026, Keetsie's heartlongedfor him, and herfamilytakes great comfortinknowing they are togetheronce again,nevertobeapart. A graduate of Glen Oaks High School anda dedicated member of Zachary United Methodist Church Keetsie lived aliferooted in faithand devotion. Her husband, children, and grandchildrenwerethe absolute center of heruniverse;nothinginthisworld wasmoreimportanttoher than herfamily. Whether she wascheeringloudly for herbeloved NewOrleansSaintsonSundays, creatingbeautiful pieces through herintricate cross -stitching, or spendingher Friday nights thrilling to thedirttrack racingatthe Baton Rouge Raceway, she embraced life withenthusiasm and warmth. Sheis survived by herloving children,GwenSavario and herhusbandMichael, and Tim Neyland; herdaughter -in-law,CherieNeyland; andher cherished grandchildren, Ethan Savario, Seth Savario, BradyNeyland, SydneyNeyland, and Guidry Neyland. Shealso leaves behind awide circle of extendedfamily, church members, anddear friends. Shewas preceded in death by herbeloved husband, JerryNeyland, andher parents, Adolphe andEvella Guidry Blanco.A celebrationofKeetsie's life will be held on Monday, Ju-

ly 27, 2026, at Charlet FuneralHome in Zachary. Visitation willbeginat 12:00 PM, with thememorial service followingfrom 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM,officiated by Reverend,DoctorAngela Bulhof and Rev. Paul Downing. Burial willtake place at 3:00 PM at Greenoaks Memorial Park in Baton Rouge.Pallbearerswill be Michael Savario, Tim Neyland, Ethan Savario, Seth Savario, BradyNeyland, andJeff andJared Neyland. Share memoriesatwww.CharletF uneralHome.com.

ma, age 86, of

Rouge,Lapassed

peacefully at home on July 19, 2026. He wasbornon July 20, 1939, in Merida, Yucatan Mexico to Jose and Jacinta Palma. After immigrating to the U.S.inthe early 1960's, Joewas drafted into theU.S Army and servedfor 32 years. Joe andhis wife Sonia were marriedfor 63 years. They had2 sons, Jody and Chad anda daughterMariawho died as an infant. Joeretiredasa ChiefWarrant Officer4 in 1994. He wasa very proudAmerican and wasverygrateful for the opportunities afforded him. Upon hismilitaryretirement,Joe continued working as aconstable in East Baton Rouge parish untilthe age of 74. Joewas an avidgolferand also enjoyed playing racquetball softball, andsoccer. He also lovedwatchingNFL footballand LSUTigers. Joewas extremely proud of hissonsand all of his grandchildren. He willbe remembered by all who lovedhim as akind, loving andgenerousman whoenjoyed life to the fullest. He is survived by hiswife So-

Palma, Jose Francisco

Jose (Joe) Francisco Pal-

Baton

away

Martin, GeneAutry

Gresham, Frank M.

nia, sons Jody (Leanne) and Chad (Sandy) and many grandchildren.

Catherine Annette Rhodes Seng died in her sleep on Thursday, June 18, 2026, while residing at St. James Place in Baton Rouge. She was born April 15, 1944, in Mobile, Alabama to William Arthur Rhodes, Sr. and Myrtle Boyd Rhodes.Shortly after the end of WW2 the family moved to Bogalusa, Louisiana

She is survived by her son, Arthur James Seng of Baton Rouge and her brother, WilliamA.Rhodes, Jr. of Proctor, Texas

Annette graduated from Bogalusa High School in May 1962 and enrolled in LSU the following August. She continued at LSU until her junior year when she attended the University of Seven Seas campus afloat, adivision of Chapman College in Orange, California. During this year she traveledaround the globe studying on board the ship and when in port, all students traveled to various cities staying at local universities. After this year she returned to LSU and graduated. She later enrolled and graduated from the LSU School of Law after which she worked for many years in the Louisiana Attorney General Office as an Assistant Attorney General. before retiring in 2016

Annette expressed herself through painting, sewing, design and music. An accomplished pianist and singer she performed with the Gilbert &Sullivan Society, Baton Rouge Opera,and LSU Opera of Baton Rouge for many years

She was aworld traveler She cultivated life long friendships through travel and warm generosity

She gave of her time with many volunteer organizations, including fundraising for music and the arts with BRAVO, Opera Louisiane, Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra, chaperoning the youth group at the University United Methodist church, and working with international students at the International Cultural Center on LSU campus Service willbeheld Sat., Aug. 29 at UniversityUnited Methodist Church 3350 Dalrymple Dr,at2pm

Kacie LouiseStephens passed awayonJuly 18, 2026.She was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on October 20, 1984. She is survived by her son, Raiden Stephens; and her parents, Wayne and Linda Stephens.

Nell'

It is With heavy hearts,wecelebratethe beautiful life of Nell Marie ThomassieBercegeay.A belovedand devotedwife mother,grandmother, greatgrandmother,great greatgrandmother and friend.

Shewas awomanofunwaveringfaithwhoselove forGod guided everypart of her life.She lived with grace, kindness and compassion. Shewas the heart of herfamily. Always putting everyonebefore herself.

Nellisprecededin death by her husband ConstantBercegeay Jr,Her parentsPercy Thomassie and Isabell Morvant, Her siblings Jane Rouyea& Perry Thomassie, along with her son Craig Bercegeay Sr.

Sheissurvived by her three beautiful daughters Nona(TerrySr)Lambert, JennyBercegeay &Wanda (RayJr)LaBauve Nellissurvived by her sibling Josie(Will) Brian & Charles Thomassie.

Nell's legacy continues through her grandchildren Trish LeBlanc, Amanda(Darryl)Braud, Christina Bercegeay, Lana(Rob)Taylor, Terry(Rebecca)LambertJr, Bill Lambert, Brian Pankey,Nina(Allen)McDowell, Lil Ray(Tabatha)LaBauveIII Craig(Amber)Bercegeay Jr.

Hergreat grandchildren were her sourceofpride and happiness-Lance LeBlanc, Savannah(Michael)Huynh, Jadynn Duhe, Harlie Duhe, Kourtney Braud, Katie Braud, Maddison Lambert, Hunter Lambert, Shelbi Lambert, AmeliaTaylor, LaneLambert,Emma Lambert, LoganLambert, Ray LaBauve IV, LexiMillien, Kimmy Rouyea, Carsen Bercegeay, Jude Bercegeay, Baylin(Kyli)Wyatt, Isabella Wyatt& MakenzieWyatt. Great great grandchildrenare Kian Huyhn, Dustin Wyatt& Stella Wyatt

Nell's life stands as a beacon of love, devotion, and kindness. She leaves an enduringlegacy in the hearts of her family andall who had the privilege of knowing her.Her love for God was evident in the way she caredfor everyone around her. Her passions were listening to her favorite bands and dancing,Playing card games( Especially Bingo), camping under the stars, spending time with familyand friends, riding horses, carefullycrafting rosaries, and herlove forchurch. Nell's memorywillbe furtherhonored by her family members who will serve as pallbearers: Terry Lambert Jr,Hunter Lambert, Bill Lambert, Ray LaBauveIV, &LaneLambert.Honorary Pallbearer Lance LeBlanc Please join us in celebrating the beautiful life of NellMarie Thomassie Bercegeay. Avisitation will be held from 9:20 AM to 10:00AMon 2026-07-30 at St. MarkCatholicChurch, 42021LA-621.A mass of christianburialwill be held from 11:00AMto12:00PM on 2026-07-30 at St.Mark CatholicChurch, 42021LA621. Aburialwillbeheld from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM on 2026-07-30atCornerviewCemetery, 38161 Cornerview Rd. Areception will beheldfrom 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM on 2026-07-30 at St. MarkCatholicChurch, 42021LA-621.

Mack Williams, adevoted man of faith,beloved son, brother, uncle, soulmate, relative, colleague, andfriend, entered his eternal home on July17, 2026 at theage of 55.

AnativeofBogalusa, Louisiana, Mack graduated salutatorian of his high schoolclass in 1989. He then attended LSUBaton Rouge and graduated with his BS in Dietetics. He completed adieteticinternship in Augusta, Georgia and became aRegistered Dietician. With morethan, 30 years of servicetothe state of Louisiana, he retired as theDirector of the FoodDistributionDivision, Office of Animal Health and Food Safety forthe Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry.

Mack leavestocherish his memory his sisters, MichelleEckert and her husband,John, of White Hall,Arkansas; Rubby Douglas and her husband,Billy,ofWalker, Louisiana; and Frances Weiterand her husband,Stephen, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana; his soulmate, Karen Fontenot SoileauofVille Platte,Louisiana who capturedhis heart themoment they met;and his nieces and nephews, Catherine JanieDouglas, AbigailMae Weiter, Alexandra Boonnark Weiter, and Austin Mack Weiter.

Visitation willbe2-4 p.m. on Saturday, August 1, 2026 with servicedirectly after at Palestine Baptist Church in Bogalusa, Louisiana.

The family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be madetothe Mack Williams Scholarship Fund.The fund willsupport aLouisiana student pursuing an undergraduateorgraduatedegree in dietetics, nutrition, food science, culinary arts, foodservicemanagement, or arelatedfield. Donations may be made throughR3D Outcomes/ Mack Williams Scholarship Fund,c/o Bonvenu Bank, 10725 Perkins Road,Baton Rouge, LA 70810

Diana MaggioWinston passed away on Monday, July 20, 2026, at theage of 82. She wasborn December14, 1943, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana to CharlesVincent Maggio and RubySicard Maggio. She was a1961 graduateof Baton Rouge High School and received her business certificatefrom Draughon Business College. She is preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband of 61 years, Jack Winston,Jr.;her brother, Nickie Maggio and hiswife Carolyn; her brothers-in-law, Roy"Moonie" Winston and Butch Stegall; andher sister-in-law, BettyWinston.

Diana is survived by her loving children Jacqueline Venable(Ronnie), Jeffrey Winston (Connie), Jason Winston (Johnnie), and Jill Cowart (Tyson); eight grandchildrenand twelve great-grandchildren. She is also survivedbyher brother, Michael Maggio (Emma); as well as numerous other family and friends. Her faith and dedication to theneedfor the establishment of Most Blessed Sacrament ledher and Jack to assist in the fundraising forthe church and theschool, even before thefoundations were poured.Diana retired after years of dedicatedservice as an insurance adjustor with Louisiana Workers' Compensation Corporation. She enjoyed recreating meals that she learned whilewatching theFood Network and various cooking channels.WhenDiana wasn'tinthe kitchen or watching Mass being celebrated on television, you couldfind her spinning her luck at thepenny slots in BatonRouge casinos. Visitationwilltakeplace at Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Highway, on Monday, July 27, 2026, beginning at 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM.Visitation willcontinue at Most Blessed Sacrament,15615 Jefferson Highway in BatonRouge on Tuesday, July28, 2026, beginning at 10:00 AM until Mass of ChristianBurial at 11:30 AM. Honoring Diana as pallbearers willbe Jarred Southerland, BrandonWinston, KyleWinston,Dylan Winston, Tyson Cowart, Collin Cowart, Charles Naquin andHunter Ballard,along with Scout Breaux servingasanhonorarypallbearer. Family and friends may signthe online guestbook or leave apersonal notetothe familyatwww.resthavenbaton rouge.com.

KeithRobert Wyckoff passed from thislife on Sunday, July 19, 2026, at Terrebonne General HospitalinHouma, LA. Keith wasbornMay 15, 1957, in Hopewell, NewJersey to George Richard and Margaret Wyckoff. He wasone of four children.Atthe age of 18 he cametoLouisiana to join afamily business and never left. No more shovelingsnow forKeith He wasa businessman and entrepreneur for many years in Baton Rouge most notably with Yellow Cab Company.

Keithwas adedicated, lovingfather and awonderfulgrandfather and great grandfather. He was an amazing friend who wasalways there to give advice or help. Keithwas an avidfisherman, outdoorsman and agardener especially afterheretired to Cocodrie. He loved to talk and laugh and would share histhoughts with all. He wasa prankster with a sometime raunchy sense of humor.Heenjoyed traveling, especially to family reunions and scenic places.

In hisown words, "I've been blessed with afan-

tasticlife andenjoyed eachand everymoment." He addedagentle warning to hisloved ones, ". Iwill be going to classes for hauntingsoconsider yourself warned, Iamnot done with you yet ." AcelebrationofLife will be heldinhis memoryon August 8, 2026, at Ashley Manor on OldHammond Hwy.,Baton Rouge, LA. In lieuofflowers, Keithrequeststhatyou buy alivingplant and give it to someone you love Keithwas preceded in death by hisparentsand hiswife,RhondaHubert Wyckoff. Those left to cherishhis memoryare his twosons and daughters-in -law,Robertand Jessica Michael andTaylor,Brenda Hubert,his wife andhis stepchildren, Joey and Meghan.Heisalsosurvivedbyhis siblings Rich Wyckoff, Cheryl Saleem andKevin Wyckoffalong with hisgrandchildren Harley,Maren,Christian, Kaelin,Cassidy, Brayden, Maddy, Aydan,Greyson Vella andhis great-grandchildrenHayes, Mary Claire,Ozzy, Emery, and Rynlee. Ahost of extended family members, aunts, uncles, and cousins, as well as closefriends, will miss him.

Keith'sfinalmessage wastohis family and friends, "God Bless. .you will feel me soon andoften. Live everyday with love andsmiles. "A celebration of life will be held from11:00 AM to 2:00 PM on 2026-08-08 at Ashley Manor,14214 OldHammond Hwy.

Bernard John (Bernie) Zimlicki passedaway on Tuesday, July 14, 2026 due to amedical emergency duringa vehicular accident.Hewas 84 years old andlived in Baton Rouge Though he wasborna Yankee in Norwood, MA, he hadlived in Baton Rouge for 35 years and grew to love theSouth Bernie wasa kind and generousman andwas dearlyloved by hisfamily andfriends.One of his proudest momentsinhis youth wasbeing awarded theOrder of the Arrow, the highest honor of an Eagle Scout. He wasa graduate of Norwood High School wherehewas on thefootballteam. He receivedhis bachelor'sdegree in Russian history from Boston Collegeand hismaster's in finance from Bentley Col-

lege Berniewas agreat lover of history, and when escortingfriends andfamily on Boston's Freedom Trail andthe American Revolution battle sites in Lexington andConcord,herecited all manner of historical events. He wasa veteran of the U.S. Army whereheserved threeyearsduring the Vietnam War eraand rememberedthe day of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy when his base wasclosed and the soldierswereissued live ammunition. He wasa member of theHonor Guard. He workedatthe Department of Environmental Quality for 18 years. He lovedtospend histimein retirement engaging in what he called "puttering," around thehouse, hisflower andvegetable gardens (hegrewdelicious tomatoes), and hisswimming pool. Bernieissurvived by his dear friendand former wife of 35 years, Paula Moore Zimlicki of Mandeville;his loving family, sister Linda Zimlicki Owens of BainbridgeIsland, WA,and hisbrother Alan Zimlicki (Aldona Charlton)of Wellfleet, MA.Othersurvivors are his loving friend, Virginia Moore,Baton Rouge;John(Barbara) Moore of Covington; and David (Gretchen)Mooreof DryProng. He is also survived by hisniece, Nicole Moore of Mandeville;John Moore (Linda Valsdottir)of Cambridge,MA; Romas Zimlicki (Andrea) Zimlicki of Virginia; Rasa Dawson of Virginia; JennyTaylor (Brett) of Virginia; Gareth Owens (Lynette)ofHealdsburg, CA; andTristan Owens of BainbridgeIsland, WA.Survivors also includeseveral great-nieces andnephews. He was precededindeathbyhis parents, Albert and Isabel Zimlicki of Norwood, MA He wasalso preceded in death by hisdear friend PaulC.Moore Serviceswill be held at Greenoaks Funeral Home 9595 Florida Blvd,Baton Rouge,70815, on Thursday, July 30, withvisitation from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. followed by servicesat11a.m. He wasa member of St Jean Vianney Catholic Church.Donationsmay be made to the church at 16166 S. Harrell's Ferry Rd Baton Rouge,70816.

Williams, MackBenjamin

Seng, Annette

Zimlicki, Bernard John 'Bernie'

Wyckoff, Keith Robert

Winston, Diana Maggio

Stephens, Kacie Louise

Thomassie Bercegeay, Nell Marie 'Mama

OPINION

OUR VIEWS

Affordable housing needs focused attention

The housing market in Louisiana hasbeen a roller coaster for awhile now.Soaring insurance premiums, high interest rates and lack of inventory have drivenupcostsand left some would-be buyers and sellers on thesidelines. Now, though, there may beglimmers of hope with real estate agents reporting increased activity.Inthe first six months of theyear,sales were up nearly 7% in the greater NewOrleans area, almost 4% in greater Baton Rouge and 5% in Lafayette,reporters from thisnewspaper found. Median sales prices also rose That’sdue to many factors. Ourinsurance market, long asore spot forhomeowners, is stabilizing, so more insurers are willingto write policiesagaininareas of our statethattheypreviously shunned. It alsomay bethatbuyers are getting usedtointerest rates hovering around 6.5%. Whatever the reason, we are glad to see the market recovering from thepost-pandemic slump. But there is still aways to go.Though median prices have risen, they are not keeping up with inflation. And theamount of timehouses stay on themarkethas risen —to71days in greater New Orleans and more than80 days in theBaton Rouge metro area.

That’swhy we applaud policies on the state and national levelthat encourage home ownership and bring down costs. Ahome is oftenthe biggest assetmost families have, and owning a home can put peopleonthe pathtothe middle class Certainly, the work done bystate lawmakersand Insurance Commissioner TimTemple to address our insurance crisis is worthy of praise.State leaders correctly sawthis as the existential threat it wastosome Louisianacommunities and actedwith urgency.Weare now seeing thatwork pay off withnew insurers entering the market and premiums slowly start to come down. It’sbeen along-term effort, but we finally seem to be moving in the rightdirection. We previously applauded thefortified roof programs and reforms to ourlaws that aimedto make Louisiana’smarketbehave more like that in other states.

We also note that Congress recentlypassed the21stCentury ROADtoHousingAct with broad bipartisan support. It aims to increase housing supply and prevent largeinstitutional investors from snapping up single-family homes. These are worthy goals, andwewill be watchingto see what effect this hasonmaking housing more affordable. But there are worrying signs onthe horizon. We see in Louisiana abifurcation of the state’s housing market, with luxury homes selling in all-cash deals while lower-incomebuyers struggle to find starter homes. This isn’tgoodfor our communities or our youngpeople. We challenge policymakers to come to thetable with more ideas to make the dream of homeownership more attainable in the future for more people.

LETTERSTOTHE EDITOR ARE

WELCOME. HERE AREOUR

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

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

TO SEND US A LETTER, SCANHERE

Rawmilklaw notenoughfor public health

The Louisiana Legislature has sometimes been accused of having aherd mentality.One time it was literally true.

That was in 2024, when theHouse passed abill allowing the sale of raw, unpasteurized milk directly from farms. As thevote was being taken, anumber of legislators belted out heartymoos to celebrate.

That cud-in-cheek moment doesn’tlook so whimsical now Lastmonth, the Louisiana DepartmentofHealth announced that 11 people had been sickened, with two hospitalized, after drinking raw milk purchased from three different producers under thenew law LDH did not namethose producers, nor did it mention anycorrective actionstaken.

Legislatorsbrushed that aside. The bill passed out of the Louisiana House unanimously.Its author,state Rep. Kimberly Coates, R-Ponchatoula, acknowledged theconcerns, but added

“There is risk withmanyfoods.”

So, here we are two years later with afrightening situation on our hands and little information to help the public navigate it.

It’snot as if officials weren’twarned. As it was first being debated, scientists and Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain sounded alarm bells over the bill.

“We’re weighing the politics versus the science and the risk,”Strain said at thetime.

He pointed to figures showing raw milk causes 840 times moreillnesses and 40 times more hospitalizations than pasteurized products.

The famous taglineofThe New York Times is “All the news that’s fitto print.” Ithink in somemanner all news outlets have asimilar motto. But what does it mean to be fitto print?There is alot of news out there that doesn’tmake it onto our websites or into our printed editions. Andhow we make decisions on what not to publish mattersalmost as much as what we do publish. Certainly on social media, there is often no such filter.Some people post rumor,speculation and items of questionable sourcing with little concern. We have to believe a news item is in the public interest to publish it.And to be sure, there is often news that appears on social media that doesn’tmake the cut for us. Salacious stories, sometimes called clickbait, while they might spark inter-

When thebill got to the Senate, the concerns focused on the financial impact: specifically,how much it might cost thestate to regulateand test the raw milk —almost $1 million per year, LDH officials said. The senators’ solution? Producers would be required to affixasticker to each raw milk container,warning that it could contain bacteria and that the milk was “not intended forhuman consumption.” In other words, an adhesive wink at consumers.

“I don’tcare what you do with it after you get it,” said state Sen. Stewart Cathey,R-Monroe, washing his hands of the potential dangers.

The bill came as part of the bigger cultural pushback against manylongaccepted public health maxims. The Legislature is not immune to this, of course. It has, in recent years, relaxed vaccine requirements andloosened rules for those wishing to pursue alternative remedies. Raw milk, and its “good” bacteria, are seen by someas key to better health.

LDHhas refused to publicly name the sources of the tainted milk, which would enable consumers to makeinformed decisions. And it’snot telling the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry which is headed by Strain and actually has the power to suspend sales if it feels it’swarranted. On July 17, more than three weeks after LDH put out its newsrelease, an LDAF spokeswoman told me that the department had heard nothing from LDH on the matter

“Wehave not received an official report from the Louisiana Department of Health identifying the cause of the illnesses, nor have we been notified of the farmsinvolved,” Jennifer Finley said. “The products in question are licensed and intended forsale as animal or pet feed and are not intended for human consumption.”

So perhaps, forsome, afew people getting sick is worth it so they can continue to buy raw milk without alot of heavy-handed government interference. For their pets, of course. Wink wink.

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

est in some quarters, are not what we trafficin. But, you might say, if people are talking about something, doesn’t that make it news? It might. That’swhere newsjudgment comes in. Our reporters and editors work every day to decide what to cover and what to post withour audience in mind. What stories will matter most to you? What is newsthat you need to know? What are the important conversations we need to have in our society? That all might soundalittle stodgy in the anything goes digital age, but we like to believe it sets us apart from all the other content out there. We want to be thetrusted source amid a sea of information you have access to. We know somepeople like their news unfiltered, but that can make it hard to

know what’saccurate. We aim to help you cut through the noise.

Turning to our letters inbox, Ican report that in the weekfrom July 16-23, we received 56 letters. Concerns about voting and voter fraud wereatthe top of our readers’ minds. We received six letters on the topic, likely due to President Donald Trumpraising the issue in aprime-time address. Then there were anumber of topics that drew two letters, including the fight between the state and the city of New Orleans, how Louisiana executes prisoners and public safety in New Orleans. Iwas also happy to see aletter about our series about the warming Gulf.We hope it generates moreresponses in the future.

Arnessa Garrett is managing editor for Opinions. Email her at arnessa.garrett@theadvocate.com

Arnessa Garrett

Faimon Roberts

COMMENTARY

FEMA nomineeshows that truth-tellingisnodisaster

When aU.S. Senate committee on Wednesday advanced thenomination of anew administrator for the Federal Emergency Management Agency,it emitted aray of hope for the idea that principled stancesdon’t always necessitate career suicide. Considering the importance of FEMA for Louisiana, this could be very good newsif, Lordforbid, acataclysm occurs. The Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee voted 8-4 in favor of the nomination of CameronHamiltonfor the post, and full approval is almost certain if the Senate makes time to vote before itsabsurdly long August“recess.” Hamilton was the Trump administration’soriginal “acting” administrator of FEMA, but he was fired last May for the dreaded sin of testifying that his agency should actually continue existing Imagine that! He had thegallto saythat we need anational government agency to handle major disasters because when states are hit by such catastrophes, the disasters by their very nature

knock outall the states’ preplanned responses. That is, well, what disasters do, and it’swhy resources from other states and the federal government are rushed in to help: not because theaffected state is incompetent, but because disasters arebydefinition disastrous Apparently in Washington, such logic was a seriously endangered species. President Donald Trumphad suggestedastrong preference for eliminating FEMA altogether,so when Hamilton spoke up for commonsense, hewas canned. Thank goodness, though, that was then and this is now To Trump’scredit, the president backed off ofhis insistence on guttingFEMA. Instead, he appointed areview committee. That task force proposed not ending FEMA but mending it. As this newspapereditorialized in May thetask force’seventual recommendationsgot alot of things right. As Trumpwanted, it still devolved substantial responsibilities backtothe states —but, crucially,it insisted that the worst

calamities do still require anational agency to exist as astrong and nimble backstop and provider of desperately needed aid.

The taskforce also suggested elimination of some bureaucratic hurdles and unnecessary procedures that have slowed down assistance in prior years. Andmore, with mostofthe ideas appearing to be wise ones.

The mend-not-end philosophy was, in essence, what Hamilton had been proposing ayear earlier Pushed to theprivatesector in themeantime, Hamilton suddenly was invited back to takethe very job from which he had unwisely been fired —this time, not as “acting” but,assuming theSenate gives itsexpected approval, as theofficial administrator

The man fired for saying what he believes is being rehired because people realized what he believes actually is right.Hallelujah.

Butishecapable?

Hamilton apparently hasn’t managed responses to natural disasters before, but his experience certainly sounds impressive. ANavy SEAL for adecade, he later spent eight years as a

StateDepartment emergency management specialist and in an important supervisory role at the Department of Homeland Security.According to the NewYork Times,Trump officials say Hamilton performed key crisis response workand “kept U.S. personnel and facilities safe in dangerous environments, and managed morethan 4,000 emergency medical technicians and first responders.”

In his confirmation hearing, Hamilton struck all the right notes: “I believe states need to receive better customer service. Ihave full faith and confidence in theFEMA workforce, but we can do better

There’sasignificant amount of areas where that process should be simplified, better understood andweowe you answers, Ithink, much faster.”

Wow, what’snot to like?

Hamilton “gained alot of respect”and is “somebody that obviously understands FEMA,” said Mark Cooper,aBossier City na-

tive and chief of stafffor former Louisiana Gov.John Bel Edwards, in arecent interview with my colleague Stephanie Grace. Cooper wasamember of the aforementioned task force that recommended reforming FEMA rather than killing it. And he played a large role in convincing FEMA leaders to have akey hurricaneplanning meeting in June not in D.C. but in NewOrleans, showing that Louisiana is very much at the forefront of their thinking. Hearing of Hamilton’sreturn from banishment, Cooper said, “was kind of asurprise, but it was agood surprise.”

There’salesson here. Namely, it’snot the end of the world if one risks one’sjob by abiding by one’s conscience and speaking what one believes is true. More people in government and politics should do the same.

There’salso hope here. If the right man is on the job at FEMA, with the right plan, we in Louisiana should be able to recover morequickly no matter what ill wind might blow

Email Quin Hillyer at quin hillyer@theadvocate.com

Scorched-earth politics come to La., andwe’re worseoff forit

If anyone was relieved when the NewOrleans officialswho’d been threatened with removal by Attorney General Liz Murrill offered an olive branch last week, it was short-lived.

“It’snot over,” Murrilldeclared aftera special prosecutor dropped the criminal charges she bizarrely faced for making that threat, at Mayor Helena Moreno’sand the AG’sother alleged victims’ request.

Sigh.

their requestwas “driven by our belief that thepublic interest is now better served by moving forward rather thanby prolonging litigation.”

Moreno and five City Council members had wisely called on appointed prosecutor Laurie White to dismiss the grand jury indictment, which stemmed from adispute about how to fill the newly merged court clerk job in OrleansParish District Attorney JasonWilliams, who’d recused his office, sent asimilar message: that the fighting was adestructive distraction that put all the progress thecityand statehave made together at risk. It’strue they had plenty of reasons to stand down. Murrill and her Republican allies, Gov.Jeff Landry chief among them, madeitclear they wereout to punish the city —and by extension its majority Democraticresidents —bywithholding stateresources. The state Supreme Court had already indicated theextraordinary charges were unlikely to stand.And Murrill, as part of her effort to have the case thrown out, was pursuing communications that may or may not havebeen embarrassing to the city officials. YetMoreno and the council members were also dead-on when they wrotethat

If only Murrill and her allies would meet them halfway In saying that, Idon’tminimize the wrongheadedness of theindictment, or the mystery over whether it was really the work of arunaway grand jury or manipulation by someone with an agenda. Itoo am dying to know how it all unfolded behind closed doors, and Ifully understand Murrill’sanger,just as Iunderstand why the New Orleans officials were furious at her claim that they’d acted illegally

But neither Murrill nor Landry is backing down from the hardball tactics that started this most unseemly city v. state showdown.

Both are pointing fingers without offeringevidence of thetype of wrongdoing that the city officials deny.Landry said that Williams should have his law license “ripped from him,” suggested Council President JP Morrell should meet asimilar fate and floated aspecial legislative session to grab more control over New Orleans courts. And Murrill doubled down on her original contention that thecouncil violated the law

This, even though the same state SupremeCourt majority that deemed the Legislature’sconsolidation of clerk offices legal andthe council’sreaction improper —while also acknowledging lawmakers’ timing,right before theelected criminal court clerk was to take office, was “unfortunate”— said that the usurpation allega-

tionsatthe heart of her warning should be off the table “due to theobvious confusion” surrounding thesituation.

Murrill said her effortstouncover improper intervention that were once part of her attempt to have thecase thrown out —which included, as mycolleague Quin Hillyer reported, her lawyers’ outrageous demand that anonymous citizen grand jurors preserve electronic communications or risk civil or criminal penalties —will continue unabated.

If this all sounds heavy-handed, well, that’sa patternwith Murrill.

Her initial round of bullying letters which even her own lawyer Laura Cannizzaro Rodrigue said at the time were illadvised —not only dangled the possibility of removing thecity’sDemocratic leaders but also having Republican Landry appoint their replacements.

It also invoked thepossibility of pros-

ecution forretired Judge Calvin Johnson, who’d agreed to step up as interim clerk at the council’srequest. If his namesounds familiar,that could be because he’salready received astate apology forwrongful prosecution stemming from a1965 incident in which he and agroup of other teens protesting forschool integration were assaulted by amob. In issuing the apology in 2019, then-Gov.John Bel Edwards rued that “Louisiana’sauthority and power” had been “unjustly wielded.” Separately,Murrill sued Caddo officials on procedural grounds over aharmless welcomeresolution forVermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, which the judge deemed “frivolous” and “improperly motivated.” And she indicted former Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson, not forany alleged selfdealing but foranabysmal performance in office forwhich voters had already sent her packing. Murrill even emulated President Donald Trumpbyposting aself-aggrandizing meme after the charges weredropped, showing her with red lasers coming out of her eyes.

Indeed, Murrill and Landry are channeling the Trumpian worldview:that red states are at warwith their blue cities, that officials need answer only to the voters whosupport them,that policy should be based on retribution and that it’sbetter to escalate than to deescalate.

It’s no waytogovern. And it’scertainly no waytomake Louisiana any less dysfunctional.

Email StephanieGrace at sgrace@ theadvocate.com.

Cleo Fields gettingbacktowhere he once belonged

U.S. Rep. Cleo Fields campaigned and earned the title of congressman twice in his career Andhe’slost the title twice. Neither time did Fields go to Washington, D.C., with the intention of being ashort-term player in the U.S. House of Representatives. With many years of service by the time his second congressional tenure ends Jan. 3, Fields will have served longer than a number of congressional representatives who had shortterms, some for as little as one day but far from the likes of West Virginia Sen. Robert Byrd, whowas in the U.S. Senate for more than 51 years. Fields isn’tpacking up and returning home because he wants to. Gov.Jeff Landry and the LouisianaLegislature eliminated the sixth congressional district that he was duly elected to serve in favor of aRepublicanfavorable district that would’ve beentoughfor Fields to win. The two-timecongressman officially announced daysago thathewill not seek reelection to Congress.

Instead, he will seekthe state Senateseat he left to return to Congress. In amost unfortunate twist of fate, the seat is open because his successor,state Sen. Larry Selders, died earlier this month. Selders served about five years in theState House and won aspecial election to finish thebalanceofFields’ term Fields first won thesame Senateseat in 1987 as a24-yearold activist outsider,defeating a longtime incumbent. He’s held onto theseat since—except for thetwo times when he was elected to Congress. Each time he was elected to aseat created by the state Legislature in response to callsfor greater representation of Black voters.

He’srepresented two different congressional districts, the 4th and the 6th, based on political district boundaries drawnat thetime. Both werecenteredin Baton Rouge. He’srepresented Baton Rouge and other communities as asenator three times, each timewith aBaton Rouge center

If Fields is elected to fill Selders’ unexpiredterm, it would be the fourthtimehe’sbeen elected to thestate Senate —and he’llquite likely run fora full term next fall.

Sometimes congressional representativesare forced to pack their Washingtonbelongings and head home when districtboundaries are changed. It doesn’t feel good. “Am Idisappointed?” Fields asked rhetorically.“Of course.” “It’snothing I’munfamiliar with.We’vebeen here before We were very hopeful.” He, Iand othersthought we were on our waytomore equalrepresentation in Louisiana.

In late April, theU.S.Supreme Court ruled in Louisiana v. Callais that geographic boundariesfor political subdivisions cannotbe drawn based on race but they can be drawn based on politics. In effect, that wasthe endofthe Voting Rights Act Section 2, which hasprovided protectionsagainst voting discrimination while providing morerepresentation opportunities forBlacksand other underrepresented groups Thatwas thedeath of Fields’ district.

Landry andhis Republican Legislature created the6th District that Democrat Fields represents until Jan.3.InMay,after thehigh court ruling,and before Fields hadcompleted 18 months of the term, the samegovernor and the Legislature eliminated the district.

On Thursday afternoon,hetold me he’s looking at onething at a time.Hedoesn’t knowwhether anyone elsewill jump intothe race, but he’s making it clear that he wants theseat. “It is notmy seat,” he toldme. “I’mrunning forthe seat. Idon’t own it.” WhenFields became acon-

gressman this time, Selders ran forthe rest of his unexpired Senate term.Fields hadknown Selders formore than 20 years andhewas excited to seeSelders succeed him. Now Fields is running to fill the balanceofSelders’ unexpired term

This is notthe wayFields would have chosen to have this playout If it were up to him, he’d be staying in Congress,gaining more seniority, fighting forhis district andall of Louisiana

Now he wantstoreturn to the Louisiana Capitol as thesenator withthe mostseniority

All of Louisiana should be as disappointed as Fields is about this turn of events. All of us should want Fields in Congress, where he belongs and where we’d have the representation we deserve. Though Fields hastoearn the state Senate seat he left,many in his district, in theCapitol and across thestate will welcome thecongressman back home as a senator

Email Will Sutton at wsutton@ theadvocate.com.

Will Sutton

Quin Hillyer

Stephanie Grace

STAFF PHOTO By JAVIER GALLEGOS

AttorneyGeneral Liz Murrill holds up alegal padfull of notes during anewsconference in Baton RougeonWednesday.

STAFF FILE PHOTO By JAVIER GALLEGOS Cleo Fields

Hamilton

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Saints readyto tackle life without Davis

BY MATTHEW PARAS Staff writer

When Demario Davis left the New Orleans Saints in free agency,the initialbelief was that the veteran linebacker simplyreceived an offer too rich to pass up. After all, even at the age of 37, the two-time Pro Bowler commanded atwo-year,$22 million contract from the New York Jets.

The Saints wouldn’tbeblamed if they didn’twant to hand out that sortof compensation to an off-balllinebacker.But in a twist, they did anyway

After losing out on Davis, theSaints gave athree-year,$33 million contract to reunite with KadenElliss—the former NewOrleans linebacker who spent the last three years with the Atlanta Falcons.

The financial commitment to the 31-yearoldElliss wasn’tjust about trying to get younger,either.The offer was believedto be in the ballpark of what Davis ultimately accepted from the Jets. Davis, it turned out, simply wanted to go back to New York, where he began his career By effectively swapping Davis for Elliss,the Saints linebacker room has undergonea significant change ahead of this coming season That doesn’thavetobea bad thing, though Depthchart (name, height,weight, experience)

n Kaden Elliss 6-2, 238, 8

n Pete Werner 6-3, 242, 6

n Danny Stutsman 6-3, 233, 2

n Isaiah Stalbird 6-1, 215, 2

n Jaylan Ford 6-2, 240, 3

n JacksonSirmon 6-2, 240, 1

Number to know:1,103

OneofDavis’bestattributes throughout hiscareer hasbeen hisconsistency. Even last season, Davis logged 1,081 snaps— his

ä See SAINTS, page 5C

Let’spreface this by sayinggood vibes don’twin footballgames.

If they did, New OrleansSaints fans probably could go ahead and book February flights to Inglewood, California, the site of Super Bowl LXI Don’t do that.

However,with Saints training camp starting Wednesday,there are plentyof reasonstobeoptimistic aboutthe 2026 season. EvenSaints defensive end CamJordan, entering his16th season, can sense there’ssomething alittledifferent about thevibes surrounding this year’s squad.

“I’m going tohold off until we get pads on,”Jordan said Friday.“But Ilove walking in the building and feeling that high energy.Ineed to see us in pads. ButIthink we look phenomenal on paper,though.”

The Saints haven’tmade the playoffs since acertain quarterback who will be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in August was still playing. Will the five-year postseason drought finally cometoanend? The oddsmakers in Vegas don’tthink so. The Saints have the11th-best odds in the NFC to makethe playoffs, according to one sportsbook, which would have them on the outside looking in yet again. We’ll know if they are right in January

That’ssix months away.It’sstill July,the perfect timeofyear to talk yourself into believing this is the year.Perhaps this is the year to stick your chest out with pride like you did after that2-0 start in 2024 when the Saints started the season by thumping the Carolina Panthers and Dallas Cowboys.This time, unlike thatyear,maybe you’ll be able to

keep your chest out all season long. It’searly,but here are five reasons you should be more optimistic about the Saints this year than recently

TheShoughfactor

The Saints have been searching fortheir quarterback of the future ever since their quarterback of the past (Drew Brees) retired. Nine different quarterbacks have started forthe Saints since Brees called it quits. Jameis Winston, Taysom Hill, Trevor Siemian, IanBook, Andy Dalton, Derek Carr,Jake Haener,Spencer Rattler and Tyler Shough. They finally found their ä See WALKER, page 5C

Southern playerscan’t hide excitement aheadofcamp

Faulktoapproach Jaguars’ preseasonlikehis NFLdays

BY TOYLOYBROWN III Staff writer

CamJefferson’s exuberance at Southwestern Athletic Conference media day belied hisexperience. TheSouthernredshirt junior is grounded, especially by modern standards in the transferportal era.

His

first college football seasonwas under formercoach Eric Dooleyin2023. Jeffersonbecame astarting wide receiver under Dooley’sreplacement, Terrence Graves. Jefferson is now expectedtobeasignificant contributor for first-year coach Marshall Faulk.

While frequent coaching turnover wasn’t Jefferson’scollege dream, he enters the 2026 season with optimism. The Bossier City native and his teammates approach this new season with arenewed joyahead of the

opener against Alabama State on Aug. 29 in Birmingham, Alabama.

“Wecan’t waittill Aug. 29,” Jefferson said, smiling at SWAC media day on July 15. “We can’twait till fall camp.Evenwhenwecame backfor summer,wewere excited because it’sanew season.Weget to keep playing football. Imean, what’sthere not to be excitedabout?”

The excitement from individualworkouts and competitive weight-room sessionswill carry over to preseason camp when players report Tuesday.The daily rigor Southern players await won’tstart at full throttle on Day 1.

Faulk said at SWAC media day that the early portion of campwill mimicaspects he’sfamiliar with from his NFL playing days. The first couple of days for players will beunorthodox. “It sounds crazy,like we’regonna put

them in the pool,”Faulk said. “We’re gonna have them do yoga,makesure that their bodies are ready,excuse my French, to take an ass whooping.”

After those exercises,players will go on thefootball field with the intent to getin playing shape.

“There’s aconditioning test whenthey get back,”Faulk said. “You’ve got to run, got to pass thatconditioning testevery morning. Conditioning is ahuge part of thisgame, especially withwhere we play.The heat, it wearsonyou, and that then wearsonyour mental toughness.”

Faulk also wants to makea decision on his starting quarterback as early as possible

While Faulk said he hates entering camp with aquarterback competition, his hope is to name astarterafter the firstweek of camp.

Oneofthe seven signal-callers on the rosterwho is in strong consideration for the

Rod Walker

STAFF FILE

PHOTOByMICHAEL JOHNSON Southernrunning backBarry Remo scores during aspring showcase on April4 at A.W Mumford Stadium.

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Tadej Pogacar of Slovenia, wearing the overall leader’syellow jersey, rides in the pack during the20th stage of theTour de France on Saturday.The race startedinLeBourg d’Oisans, France,and finished in Alpe d’huez, France. Pogacarhas a61/2-minute lead headingintoSunday’s finish in Paris.

Closinginonhistory

Pogacarnears record-equaling fifthtitle as Carapazwinspenultimate stage

By The Associated Press

ALPE

D’HUEZ, France Tadej Pogacar moved to within touching distanceofa record-equaling

fifth Tour de France titleafter finishing safely in thepenultimate stage on Saturday

TheSlovenian star heads into Sunday’s showcase finish in Paris with alead of 61/2 minutes over Belgian rider Remco Evenepoel Barring mishap, Pogacar willjoinBelgian Eddy Merckx, Spaniard Miguel Indurain, and FrenchmenJacques Anquetil andBernard Hinault as the only men to win five Tours.

“I have donea really good Tour.Someof ourcompetitors hadbad luck,” said Pogacar, whosemain rival Jonas Vingegaard crashed outofthe race. “Wemade it through with the team and now there is just one last show left.” The20th stage was won by Richard Carapaz for his second win at this year’s raceand third overall. The Ecuadorian rider overtook Sepp Kuss near the end as the American almost crashed out. Evenepoel also surged past Kuss near the line to take second place.

“There was amomentwhen Icouldn’t believe what was happening,” Carapaz said. “This Tour de France has been incredible, with all the spectators and all the support I’ve receivedfrom Ecuador,where they’ll be jumping for joy.”

Pogacar chose not to launch one of his attacks like on Friday’s19th stage.

Stage 20 was amammoth 106-mile alpine trek featuring three hors catégorie climbs —the hardest category —and onecategory 1climb.

After three weeksinthe saddle,wearyriderstackled hors catégorie ascents of Col de la Croix de Fer, ColduGalibier andCol de Sarenne, and the one category 1climbofCol du Télégraphe, making for 41 miles of hard climbing in total beforeahilly finish to Alpe d’Huez.

Carapaz rode from thefront in order to securethe polka-dot jersey awarded to the Tour’sbest climber.Pogacar’s yellow jersey groupwas hanging back whenCarapaz, Kuss, Spaniard Juan Ayuso and AustralianJai Hindleywent over theGalibiertogether Pogacar’spriority was ensuring his AE Team Emirates teammate Isaac DelToro finished thirdinthe rankings,and theMexican rider is now more than two minutes clear of

Frenchman Paul Seixasinfourth.

“It’sbeen an honortoride forIsaac today,”

said Pogacar,who gifted Del Toro victoryon Stage2

“Crossing the finishline togetherwith him hasbeen memorable.”

Ayuso was droppedasthe former Spanish Vuelta winnerKuss, Hindleyand Carapaz— both former Giro d’Italia winners —battled for supremacy in the Sarenne pass.

“Itwas really, really tough,” Carapaz said. “Sepp, in particular,was avery tough nut to crack.”

An exhausted-looking Kuss lost controlof hisbike going downhill when he mistimeda turn with3.1 milesleft andalmost tumbled over aroadside concretebarrier.Somenetting cushioned him.

Carapaz rode swiftly pasthim to victory

“It was absolutely brilliant to win hereand in adistinctive jersey,” Carapaz said. “I think Ideserve it, because I’vefought so hard in this Tour de France.”

Sunday’s finalstage shortened Sunday’s final stage starts shortly before 11 a.m. CDT on an 55-mileroute featuring an uphill dash through the Montmartredistrict in Parisand finishing on the ChampsÉlysées.

The stage was shortened from 82.6 miles and its starting point in Thoiry,west of the capital, was changed to Paris so as to reduce pressure on emergency services combatting wildfiresinthe southwest.

Koivun shoots 61 to take lead at 3M Open

PGATourrookiesetstourney record with 28 on back nine

BY DAVE CAMPBELL AP sportswriter

BLAINE,Minn. PGA Tour rookieJackson Koivunshot a61inthe third round of the 3M OpenonSaturday to take athree-stroke lead at 20-under par,setting atournament record with a28onthe back nine at the TPC Twin Cities. Emiliano Grilloand BenKohles each had a 65 and are tied for second at 17 under.Michael Brennan shot a63and shared fourth with Chandler Phillips at 16 under.Denny McCarthy,Billy Horschel and Michael Kimwere in sixth at 15 under Scottie Scheffler,the world’stop-ranked player,was six strokesbehind Koivunin afour-way tie for ninth place withDavis Thompson, Seamus Power andBrianHarman. The 21-year-old Koivun, who wasthe topranked amateur player after astandoutcollege career at Auburn and turned pro last

Koivun sank a12-foot puttonthe 12thgreen and a14-footer on the 18th to eagle two of the three par-5s on the lake-filled course, which joined the tour schedule in 2019. He confidently hit his second shotfromthe 18th fairwayover the water and landed safely on the green.

Richardson, Lyleswin 100 at U.S. championships NEW YORK Sha’Carri Richardson andNoah Lylessurged to 100-meter wins at the U.S. track and field championships on Friday night. The 26-year-old Richardson, a formerLSU star,got off to aslow start but quickly madeuptime, finishing in 10.77 seconds to breeze past training partner Kayla White and win by 0.13 seconds at Icahn Stadium

“It feels phenomenal to be back in abetterplace —healthy,mentally,physically,emotionally,” Richardson,who battled injuries last year,said in an interview with Peacock after the race. “It shows that hard workpays off.” Lyles, the reigning Olympic champion, was trailing early but quickly caught up to the field— andthenblewright by them. He matched his personal-best timeby finishing in 9.79 seconds.

49ers coach Shanahan suffers injuries in car crash

SANTACLARA, Calif. San Francisco 49erscoachKyleShanahan was injured in acar crash earlierthis month that will limit his participation at the start of training camp, the team announced Saturday, when camp opened. Shanahan suffered aconcussion, broke his nose andseveral ribs, and injured his hands in the crash. The team described the injuries only as “non-life-threatening” and thanked first respondersfor their work at thescene of thecrash last week.

The Niners will conduct their first practice on Sunday with assistanthead coach/offensive line coach Chris Foerster running the team, alongwithcoordinators KlayKubiak, Raheem Morris and Brant Boyer

Shin keeps five-shot lead at LPGA’s Scottish Open TROON, Scotland South Korean golferJenny Shin maintainedher five-shot lead at the Women’s Scottish Open after round three on Saturday Shin carded a1-under 71 after two birdiesand abogey just after the turn.

She’schasing hersecondLPGA Tour win and first sincethe Texas Shootout more than 10 years ago. Leading since the first round, Shin admitted she felt early nerves on Saturday Shin was at 12 under on the Dundonald Links, five ahead of Pajaree Anannarukarn of Thailand. Anannarukarn hit abogey-free 69, matching the low round of the day, to climbfromfourthplace to second.

Mets slugger Soto placed on 10-day injuredlist

NEWYORK New York Mets power hitter Juan Soto was placed on the 10-day injured list on Saturday because of aleft calf strain.

Soto walked twice against Dodgers starter Roki Sasaki in Friday’s 4-2 loss before being replaced by Jorge Polanco in the sixth inning with the score tiedat1.Heappeared to experience discomfort while running to second base on Bo Bichette’sdouble-play grounder in the second inning.

Soto is hitting .293 with21homersand 52 RBIs in 84 games this season.Hemissed15games from April3-21 witharight calf strain, andthe Mets went 3-12 withouthim Soto sat out Wednesday’s4-3 loss at Milwaukee but was back in the lineup Friday after the Mets had aday off.

Perez breaks Brett’sRoyals record for most homeruns

month following the U.S. Open, had two eagles andsix birdies to separate from the pack on a steamy and still afternoon that was ideal for low scores. “Just got to keep thefoot on thegas,” Koivun said.

“It’sgoing to be definitely atest (Sunday),” Koivun said.“I’m sure someofthe pins will be tucked and we’ve gotalot of great players behind me, but just goingtostick to my game plan and try tosmile.” Koivun, whotied for 10thtwo weeksago at the ISCO Championship in Kentucky,shot a 64 on Thursdayand a68onFriday.Hetied the 54-hole record (193) set by wire-to-wire 2023 championLee Hodges and became the youngest 54-hole leader on tour this season. But don’tassumehe’sastrangertothis type of pressure. “Playing at Auburn was so much fun. We were definitelyput in some stressful situationsatnationalchampionships andjustcollegiate play,”Koivun said. “I’m just trying to lean on those experiences.”

DETROIT Salvador Perez hit his 318th career homerun on Saturday,breaking George Brett’sKansasCity Royals franchiserecord, withasoloshot againstthe Detroit Tigers. With the Royals trailing 2-1, Perez ledoff theseventh inningwithhis 401-foot homeroff Kyle Finnegan over theTigers’ bullpeninleft.It washis 31st career homer against Detroit, trailing only the 36 he has hitagainst the MinnesotaTwins. Brett held the franchise record for40years, having passed Amos Otis with his 194thhome run on April 9, 1986.

Perez’s318 homers for the Royals ranks third among active players who have playedfor only one team. MikeTrout has422 homers for the LosAngeles Angels and Aaron Judge has385 for the Yankees.

ASSOCIATEDPRESS PHOTO By MOSA’AB ELSHAMy Richard Carapaz of Ecuador celebrates as he crossesthe finish line to win the 20th stage.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTOByTHIBAULT CAMUS

ASSOCIATEDPRESS PHOTO By BRUCE KLUCKHOHN

Jackson Koivun hits from the sixth tee during the first round of the3MOpen on Thursday in Blaine, Minn. Koivun has athree-shot lead entering Sunday’s finalround

Some SECrivalries putonhold

Move to nine-gameleague schedule pauses biggrudgematches

BY EDDIE PELLS and MARK LONG AP sportswriters

TAMPA,Fla. It used to be the biggest rivalry gameofthe week, the month —maybe the entire season. In 2026, Florida and Tennessee will be complete strangers.

Their once-a-year matchup that,back in the day,featured Steve Spurrier,Peyton Manning, Phillip Fulmer and the snark that sometimes even outweighedthe stakes —“Youcan’t spell Citrus without ‘U-T’ ”—isabsent from the schedule for the first time in 37 seasons.

Alabama-LSU —soon that’ll be gone, too, for the first time since 1963

The Gators and LSU they’ll miss each other this year forthe firsttimesince 1970.

Such is the price of progress in the Southeastern Conference,which has grown from 10 teamsinthe old days to 16 now

The league is introducing anine-game league slate thisseasoninanattemptto boost strength of schedule for what is nowaplayoff system that has acommittee awarding seven at-large spots in the 12-team field “When you look at our schedule, no one has created the kind of weekly competition that exists in the South-

eastern Conference,”commissionerGreg Sankey said The divisionsthat once made Florida-Tennessee such abig deal —the winner had an inside track for the East, aspot in the conference title gameand maybe thenational championship —are gone,anotherproduct of expansion.

Under thenew system, in place through 2029, each school will play three “annual” foes. Some of the SEC’s most ancientrivalries, like Alabama-Auburn, FloridaGeorgiaand Auburn-Georgia,were preserved.

Others are nowless-permanent affairs. Another oldie but goodie that’smissingthis year,Georgiavs. Tennessee, was first played in 1899 and became an annualevent in 1992. TheVolunteers got the best of the Bulldogs early,but Georgia has won nine in arow and 14 of thepast 16 —a run that prompted aquestionto GeorgiacoachKirby Smart on Tuesday about feeling like he has “one less win” on the schedule.

“You said that;not me,” Smart responded. “I got a lot of respect for Josh (Heupel) and their staff. Imean, they’rea toughprep. I’m glad other teams get an opportunitytodothat,and then we get some new teams to play.”

Some newteams, yes.

Tennessee quarterback PeytonManning launches apass during agame against Kentucky in Lexington, Ky., on Nov. 22,1997.

Some old rivalries will return, too.

For instance, ArkansasTexas, amust-see game on the old Southwestern Conference schedulethat produced the Game of the Century, attended by President Richard Nixonin1969, is an annual affairagain.Two years ago, Missouri renewed acquaintance with Oklahoma,reupping arivalry that meantalot in the BigEight for atime in the1970s. And Texas-Texas A&M, the “Lone StarShootout” anda game held everyyear between 1915 and2011, will nowbe played annually Asked about rivalries being renewed and others that, in another effect of realignment, are changing dates —Missouri’s season-ending tradition againstArkansas

has been moved to Week 8— Tigerscoach Eli Drinkwitz said: “I don’tworry about that. Iknow each and every game in the SEC is extremely difficult.”

The SEC also mandated its teams play a10th game againsta PowerFouropponent, which led Kansas and Missouri to renew their so-called “Border War” and created other early-season matchups like OklahomaMichigan, Clemson-LSU, Ohio State-Texas, AuburnBaylor,Arkansas-Utah and ArizonaState-Texas SEC coaches said movingtoa nine-gameleague schedule would coincide with College Football Playoff expansion, which didn’t happen.

Now,theyhavetougher schedules, no increased ac-

cess to the 12-team playoff anda few less rivalries.

“That’swhatour conference lookslike,” Oklahoma coach Brett Venables said. “Each andevery week, you’renot going to sneak up on anybody.”

Tennessee-Floridaseries

The Tennessee-Florida rivalrydecidedthe SEC East adozen times between 1993 and 2009. Spurrier got under Fulmer’sskin with his “Citrus Bowl” comments. Manning, despite all his accolades, went 0-4 against the Gators. The importance of the rivalry diminished beginning in 2011, withboth schoolsfallingbehind Georgia in the East.

Florida-LSUseries

The Florida-LSU matchup

has been filled with chaos, controversy and close games. Among themost memorable: LSU upsetNo. 1Florida in 1997,and fans stormed the fieldand tore down goal posts; thetopranked Tigers won another close one adecade later by converting five fourthdown plays; andin2020, unranked LSUstunned the sixth-ranked Gators in Gainesville on Cade York’s 57-yard fieldgoal through heavyfog aftercornerback MarcoWilsoninexplicably threw an opponent’sshoe andkeptalive thegamewinning drive Alabama-LSU series Alabama andLSU played 12 times between 2008 and 2021 withone of them rankedfirst or second. It often had Western Division and national title implications. It comes offthe schedule for 2027, no longer an annual fixture. Few matchups outweigh the 2011 showdown in which top-rankedLSU knocked off No. 2Alabama 9-6 in overtime.The CrimsonTidewon therematchinNew Orleans two months later for the nationalchampionship. Lookingbeyond2029

The SEC has been adamant that each team’s annual opponentswill be revisited andpotentially realignedto maintain competitive balance before the 2030 season. Of course, by then, there’sno telling what theSEC or college football will look like.

Wallacelooks forrepeatatNASCAR’sBrickyard 400

always enjoy Indyfor whatever reason. We’ve had really good finisheshere in the Cup car.”

Raceweekend hasnot started well for Wallace, however

BY MICHAELMAROT AP sportswriter

INDIANAPOLIS When Bubba Wallace returned to Indianapolis this week, he felt like he was retracing the steps from last year’s Brickyard 400 victory. Then he pulled through one of the speedway’stunnels, right underneath a banner of his image next to the previous race winners.

No, he’snot here to relive the life-changingmoment from last July

He’sback to deliver another historicmoment when he tries to defend the biggest win of his career Sunday on Indianapolis Motor Speedway’s21/2-mile oval.

“I wish it was as easyas copy and paste,but it’snot —clearly as Igobanging off the wall on Lap 11/2,” Wallace saidSaturday, referring to an incident during Friday’s lone practice session.“It’s just really cool to be here;I

SOUTHERN

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jobisHutchinson (Kansas) Community College transfer Christian Johnson, who joined the program in early June. The 6-foot, 206-pound junior from Montgomery,Alabama, played in back-to-back NJCAA Division Ichampionship games at Hutchinson.Asa freshman, he shared quarterback duties and helped the Blue Dragons win the 2024 national title, completing 65 of 112 passes(53.3%)for 983 yards, seven touchdowns and six interceptions. Johnson will most likely have to beat out returning senior Ashton Strother, who had the lead in the quarterback battle after spring practice. In 10 gamesfor Southern last season, the 6-3, 225-pounder from Memphis, Tennessee, completed 89 of 171 passes for 1,111 yards, four touchdownsand five

Though he feltfortunate when the23XI Racing team determined his No. 23 Toyota was not seriously damaged fromthe light brush with thewall, qualifying didn’tgomuch betterthan practice. He’ll start 29th on the oval, which has traditionally rewarded the top qualifiers over those who struggle.

But Wallace also felt snakebitteninqualifying last year when he watched Chase Briscoe beat himfor the pole by 0.013 seconds.

He rebounded by overcoming an 18-minuterain delay,two overtimes,worriesabout running out of fuel and harrowing backto-back restarts against the hard-charging Kyle Larson in the excruciating final minutes to become the first Black driver to win amajor race on Indy’soval.

The onlything that would be better is doing it all over again.

Since NASCAR first started racing at Indy in 1994, onlythree drivershave celebrated back-to-back victo-

interceptions. He rushed for 94 yards and four touchdowns on50attempts.

While Faulk previously said Strother “looked the part” in the spring, Johnson also possesses valuable traits.

“He’sakid thatnot only hasthe skillset,but he has the confidence and the ability to lead,”Faulk said of Johnson. “You’ve got tohave that guy on the field that could lead othersand get more outofthemthanthey thought they could.”

Jeffersonsaid hetrusts whoever is undercenter Presently,returning players are baskinginthe excitement emanating from the fanbase over hiring Faulk.

It’sa byproduct of an almost entirely new coaching staff under Faulk except for Fred McNair, whoisa senior adviser after serving as the interim head coach after Graves was fired in the middleofthe 2025season. Faulk brought along other former NFL players and coaches who have seen and done ev-

ries —Hall of Famer and seven-time Cup champ Jimmie Johnson in 2008-09, the late Kyle Busch in 2015-16 andHallofFame selection Kevin Harvick in 2019-20. Wallace acknowledgesthe first winhelpedmakehim abetterhusband, abetter father and aless stressed person.Asecondwin seems almost unimaginable.

“I just went through the NASCAR post of every winnerfrom ‘94, and to be on thatlist, it’s kind of like Isaid last year,unbelievable,” Wallace said. “I’m just thankful forthe opportunity, thankfulfor thecareer I’ve had.

Younever knowwhatcards you’regoing to be dealt but you put on your poker face andgodothe best that you can, and sometimes youend up winning.”

Themillion-dollarquestion

Ryan Blaney might have thehotteststreak going in the Cup circuit. TheTeam Penske driver has posted 11 consecutive top 11 finishes, wonhis second race of the season two weeks ago in Atlanta and is third in points entering Sunday.

Todd Gilliland calls himself the underdoginthe final round of the In-Season Challenge.The FrontRow Motorsports driverhas no

erything Southern players hope to accomplish. Wide receivers coach Curtis Johnson is already showing Jefferson and the rest of the position group NFL film fromhis time coaching wide receivers such as Michael Thomas and Devery Henderson when he was the New OrleansSaints wide receivers coach.

PreseasonAll-SWACfirstteamsafetyHermanBristeris picking thebrainofSouthern defensive coordinator Todd Lyght,aformer Pro Bowler duringhis12-yearNFLcareer as adefensive back.

Their resumes notonly demand respect but also inspireplayersentering camp, Brister said. “For them to come to take their time, to take pay cuts because they allcould be doing something else,” Brister said, “but taketime to come work with us,tocomebetterus, it means alot.And you can tell that all the guys have bought in from the time the coaching staff has come in to now.”

wins, no top fives, only two top 10s andis23rd in points this year

Yetsomehow these two Ford drivers will go headto-head, thetop finishers

collecting $1 millionSunday Blaney hasthe clear edge after qualifying 13th while Gilliland will start 36th. But Gilliland said he thinks he can defy the odds.

“Webeatthemhere last year so Idon’tknow why we can’tdoitagain,” said Gilliland, who finished sixth at last year’s Brickyard —one spot ahead of Blaney

Join CJ PATTON from GERRYLANECADILLAC as he breaks down what it trulymeans fora vehicletobe Certified Pre-Owned(CPO).Discoverthe strict inspection and repair standardsthatset thesevehiclesapart from standardpre-owned models,and learnhow theadded valueofa factorywarrantyoffersbuyersmorepeace of mind andmorebangfor theirbuck.

LeBron joins another ex-teen star

James, Harper both chasing titles in Philly

BY DAN GELSTON AP sportswriter

PHILADELPHIA LeBron James and Bryce Harper spent their careers on a parallel path toward stardom.

They were teenage phenoms who graced the cover of Sports Illustrated (back when magazines were cool), and both prodigies were No. 1 overall draft picks straight out of high school.

When Harper earned his first chance at testing free agency, there was only one city and one contract that was right for him. Philadelphia. It took a few years, but Harper has some company on the short list of top elite athletes who have signed in Philadelphia.

In the greatest July signature in Philadelphia since 1776, James has followed Harper from free agency to Philly when he rocked the NBA and signed a two-year deal for the bargain-basement price of $8 million total — only a smidge more per season than Philadelphia firstround pick Labaron Philon will earn — that stamped the Sixers as the most compelling team in the

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James goes up for a shot against Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid during the second half of a game on Dec. 7 in Philadelphia.

league this season “He’s going to have a great couple of years here, and obviously everyone’s going to expect him to win a championship here like everywhere else,” Harper said. “So nothing new for him. He’s had all the pressure since he was in high school or younger than that.”

Here’s the difference between James and all the superstars in the city who played before him: He’s LeBron James. Meaning, his reach is so beyond the court — from fame around the globe to his bank account to pop culture — that there is no fair comparison. He is No. 4 on Forbes’ real-time list of wealthiest athletes at

$1.4 billon, so his pay cut may not even be noticed in the ledger book. James has commercials, movie roles and endorsement deals that alone would outearn every single player on the Sixers.

Joel Embiid, league MVP and two-time scoring champion. He’s not LeBron.

Jaylen Brown, NBA Finals MVP and champion, He’s not LeBron.

Tyrese Maxey, an All-Star and the real franchise player in Philly He’s not LeBron.

“I think it’s pretty cool to have one of the greatest basketball players ever to play in the same city,” Phillies shortstop Trea Turner said. “So I’m excited for those who

LeBron shifts title odds, but West teams still favorites

BY TIM REYNOLDS

basketball writer

The parity era in the NBA seems like it could continue. At least, that’s what oddsmakers and bettors appear to believe after LeBron James’ latest decision to join the Philadelphia 76ers.

New York’s championship run last month capped a season that extended an unprecedented run of NBA parity, with eight different franchises winning titles in the last eight seasons Toronto in 2019, James and the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020, Milwaukee in 2021, Golden State in 2022, Denver in 2023, Boston in 2024, Oklahoma City in 2025 and now the Knicks.

There’s at least a reasonable chance the run of new champions will continue in 2027, with reigning Western Conference champion San Antonio, Minnesota, Detroit, Cleveland, Miami and Philadelphia now among the teams with the best odds of hoisting the Larry O’Brien Trophy next June.

Here’s a look at the teams and their odds, broken down by tiers: The favorites

James’ decision moved Philadelphia into the upper tier of favorites, but not the highest tier

Most major sportsbooks and prediction markets are clear: Teams are going to have to get through Oklahoma City and San Antonio to get out of the West The Thunder as of Saturday, are considered a slight favorite to win the NBA title in 2027, barely ahead of the Spurs. That shouldn’t be a surprise: The Thunder is led by two-time MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and have a proven championship core, while the Spurs have unanimous Defensive Player of the Year Victor Wembanyama as the centerpiece of a young team that took huge strides in 2025-26 and should get better

Close to the top

This is the James impact: He’s got Philadelphia right there with reigning champion New York

The Knicks and 76ers have the third- and fourth-best championship odds — in some order, depending on the site — according to most books and prediction markets.

The good news for the Knicks: They’re right where they were entering last season, not quite the favorites but ahead of just about everybody in the league when it comes to title odds

The good news for the 76ers: They’re going to have their best entering-the-season odds since probably 2019-20.

At No. 5, Boston

Some of the Celtics’ decisions

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By JESSIE ALCHEH

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James dunks against the Phoenix Suns during the second half on April 10. The Sixers are one of four favorites to win the NBA title after James committed to them on Friday

this summer particularly the trading of Jaylen Brown to Philadelphia — have faced serious criticism. Bettors don’t seem to mind, perhaps mindful of how the Celtics exceeded many expectations last season.

Boston is firmly the No. 5 choice right now according to most books and markets, not quite there with the Thunder, Spurs, Knicks and 76ers but leading the rest of the pack.

Next five (or six)

This is where things start to get muddled, and where books and markets tend to vary on that next tier the teams with the sixth-best through 11th-best odds.

Denver Toronto, Minnesota, Detroit and Cleveland are all jammed fairly close together The only real rising team in that mix is Toronto, clearly based on the expectation that the Raptors will eventually close the trade for Kawhi Leonard and bring back the key to their 2019 title run

The next team in the race for a top-10 preseason odds spot is Miami. Betting opinions seem to vary widely, though the one thing that is consistent is an expectation that the acquisition of Giannis Antetokounmpo to play alongside Bam Adebayo will get the Heat back into the playoffs.

Likely playoff teams

Even though the Lakers lost James, the odds still say that Luka Doncic’s team will be playoffbound next season. And bettors seem to think that 2025 NBA final-

haven’t gotten a chance to see him play.”

James is a 22-time All-Star a 21-time All-NBA selection, a fourtime MVP, a four-time NBA Finals MVP, a three-time All-Star Game MVP and a member of the NBA’s 75th anniversary team.

He also is coming off a season when he averaged 20.9 points, 6.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists per game. For his career, he has averaged 26.8 points, 7.5 rebounds and 7.4 assists in more than 1,600 games.

“He’s played in big markets before,” Harper said. “He knows exactly what he needs to do.”

Harper has largely lived up to the 13-year, $330 million contract he signed ahead of the 2019 season when he spurned the Washington Nationals for the Phillies and owned the richest contract in baseball history. He led the Phillies to the 2022 World Series, won the NL MVP in 2021 and helped win back-to-back NL East titles. But he’s 0-for-October

Saquon Barkley rushed for more than 2,000 yards in his first season with the Eagles and led them to a Super Bowl championship.

Pete Rose was the missing piece to help Hall of Famers Mike Schmidt and Steve Carlton win the World Series in 1980 for Philadelphia. It was the first World Series title in franchise history

The 76ers have seemed to wait almost as long for a parade down Broad Street. They won titles in 1967 and 1983, but the Sixers have failed to advance out of the second round of the Eastern Conference

playoffs since 2001.

And yet somehow, one of the most famous athletes on the face of the planet decided he wanted to play in Philadelphia.

“I’m not going for money I’m not going for family,” James wrote Friday on social media. “What am I really playing for at this point? I still want to sacrifice. I still want to work. I still want to grind. I still want to compete, to win and to have a chance at the feeling of winning.”

James celebrated his decision on Instagram with a career highlight reel set to Philadelphia rapper Meek Mill’s “Dreams and Nightmares,” the adopted sports anthem of city teams blasted ad nauseam throughout the sports complex.

The video ends with the lyric, “hold up, wait a minute. Y’all thought I was finished?” and cuts to a 76ers logo.

James isn’t finished even if his best isn’t yet to come.

He won NBA titles at each of his three previous stops Cleveland, Miami and the Los Angeles Lakers — and could become the first player ever to win a title with four teams.

The countdown to opening night is on.

The stakes have really never been higher for the franchise. If the Sixers can’t win with this group, can they ever?

James doesn’t need any tips on surviving the deep fryer of fandom in Philly

“He can do whatever the hell he wants,” Harper said. “But the city loves a winner So win.”

WNBA scrutiny intensifies as league popularity grows

BY ALANIS THAMES AP sportswriter

TheWNBAneverhasbeenbigger

More people are watching. More are investing. Salaries for many players are higher than ever But mounting turmoil and discord have been a part of this transformative period that has featured a landmark collective bargaining agreement, league expansion and skyrocketing player recognition.

It seems to have reached a new flashpoint, as discussions about race, gender and sexuality made headlines ahead of Saturday’s WNBA All-Star Game. Race-driven conversations resurfaced after an incident between Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and Phoenix Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas, while players continued to voice frustration with WNBA commissioner Cathy Engelbert and leadership over what they say is a lack of protection from social-media harassment and divisive remarks.

I also think with that love is truth, being honest. And I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport who shouldn’t have to go against biological men.”

The WNBA’s conversations about race were thrust back into the spotlight after Toronto Tempo coach Sandy Brondello was suspended one game for referring to Atlanta Dream forward Angel Reese as a “protected species.”

The comment, picked up by the broadcast after Reese drew a foul on Toronto player Nyara Sabally, quickly drew criticism. Brondello, a former player who has won two WNBA titles, is Australian. The “protected species” phrase is used in Australian sports to express frustration over a lack of calls against a player However in the U.S., the phrase suggests that someone isn’t human and could be seen as derogatory toward Black people. Brondello later apologized. Reese accepted, saying she appreciated the league’s swift action.

ist Indiana, which played without Tyrese Haliburton this past season because of an Achilles injury and plummeted to the bottom of the league, will return to the playoffs this season. Houston and Golden State round out the top 15 in current odds, suggesting that the belief is those clubs are postseason-bound as well. Not too far back from there: Atlanta, Orlando and Portland.

The hopefuls Washington will have Trae Young, Anthony Davis and Khris Middleton. Bettors expect the Wizards to be better, but they aren’t ready to put money on them being a playoff team yet.

The Wizards, with No. 1 pick AJ Dybantsa, are in a cluster of teams that odds point to as possible playin candidates, along with Phoenix, Charlotte, Dallas and Utah.

The long shots

Value bettors can find some very good odds right now on the clubs that books and markets aren’t loving right now

That group: the Los Angeles Clippers, New Orleans, Chicago, Memphis, Milwaukee, Brooklyn and Sacramento. A reminder there’s always a surprise. Charlotte was toward the bottom of most preseason odds lists this past season and won 44 games. The season before that, Detroit had some of the longest preseason odds in the league and also won 44 games. West play-in teams (but not in playoffs) — Phoenix, Dallas.

“It is a moment to be celebrated without a doubt,” said Ketra Armstrong, sport management professor and director of the Center for Race and Ethnicity in Sport at the University of Michigan. “We want to celebrate what’s great. But sometimes, the progress can overshadow, still, where the perils are.”

Issues of race, gender and representation have been an undercurrent throughout the league’s history Debates over those issues have grown as women’s sports have exploded. And they remain a challenge that shape the WNBA’s public and online discourse.

“This is what a sports league” is, said David Berri, sports economist and economics professor at Southern Utah University He cited the NFL’s Rooney Rule as an example. “If a sports league is going to get attention, you’re going to get attention for these things as well.”

Contentious conversations also spread to issues of transgender athletes and harassment.

WNBA veteran Brianna Turner said on social media this week that her former team, the Fever, fired a male employee last season for sexual harassment. Turner, who was with Indiana last season but now plays for Las Vegas, said Indiana players were encouraged not to discuss the firing.

Turner’s comments came as she defended transgender athletes days after Indiana forward Sophie Cunningham spoke on transgender athletes competing in women’s sports.

“I got a lot of negative feedback about me hating trans. And I’m like, ‘I never once said that,’ ” Cunningham was quoted as saying in a story published by ESPN. “I think that I am here to extend love. But

“It’s a much bigger platform now Everything that happens is news,” Berri said. “There were hard fouls 10 years ago. Nobody paid any attention to that. It ends up being because of the coverage now everything gets magnified which is good. I mean, this is what we wanted.”

Clark has repeatedly attempted to downplay the noise surrounding her, but she has become a springboard for projections far beyond the game itself.

“It’s basketball,” she said in a recent ESPN interview “When I walk out of the locker room I shouldn’t be fearful of what the conversation is going to be. It’s emotionally exhausting It’s draining It makes your shoulders tense because people don’t want to talk about the basketball. They just want to stir it up and make something else.”

The WNBA retroactively assessed Thomas a flagrant foul and suspended her one game after the veteran made contact with her fist to Clark’s throat in a June 24 matchup.

The play, which Thomas has said was an accident, gained widespread attention and ignited debates over officiating, with coaches, pundits and lawmakers weighing in on whether the league needs to take action about physical play involving Clark. Thomas, who is Black and in her 12th WNBA season, said after the incident she had received death threats, part of increased online vitriol players have faced in recent years. Chelsea Gray of the Las Vegas Aces recently posted a message from a man that included a racial slur And Engelbert this week met with a pair of player committees to discuss what more can be done to protect players from online harassment.

SZAGOLA

Ex-LSU player Clark says ESPN ‘fired’ him

Former LSUfootball star Ryan Clark was among severalprominent personalities laid off this week by ESPN, and the Marrero native didn’ttake long to go public with his thoughts on the matter

Clark went on The Pivot, apodcast he co-hosts with Fred Taylor and Channing Crowder,togive his side of the events that led to hisdeparture after 12 yearsasan analyst at ESPN.

The former Pittsburgh Steelers safety explained that he felt the need to adjust to the expectations of executives duringhis time at the network, saying that there was at least one person inpower at ESPN who didn’tappreciate his contributions.

“What makes me alittlebit sad about myselfisIdid adjust who I was to try to keep my job,” Clark said, adding that he had meetings with executives to try to determine how he could better meet their demands. “I couldn’thave no beef.I couldn’trespond to disrespect. I knew,for alack of abetter word,I couldn’tbetoo Black. What makes me sad is even in trying to adjust

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guy with Shough. This time ayear ago if someone had told you that Shough would finish second in Offensive Rookie of the Year voting, there’snoway you would have believed it. Especially after Rattler edged him out in training camp for the starting job.

Shoughgot hischanceinWeek 9and shined. If what we saw at the end of his rookie season spills over into Year 2, theSaints will trend in the right direction. Shough has done all the right things this offseason, including footing the bill (flights, hotelsand food) for about 20 of his teammates for aworkout in California. Youdon’toften see that from quarterbacks heading intotheir second season. Recent history tells us that second-year QBs can leadtheir teamsdeep into the playoffs. Denver Broncos QB Bo Nix and New England’sDrake Maye, both in their second seasons lastyear, helped navigate their teams tothe AFC championship games.

Fillingthe holes

The potholes in New Orleans may not always get fixed, but when it comes to the holes on the Saints’ roster,Mickey Loomis did asplendid job this offseason. Especially on the offensive side of the ball. The Saints desperately needed to improve in the running game and signed Travis Etienne in free agency.They also beefed up the line by signing guard David Edwards. On top of that, the Saints reached adeal with Alvin Kamara, giving them the typeof1-2 punch in the backfield they last hadin the Zoom and Boom daysofKamaraand Mark Ingram. Loomis revamped the passing game,too, drafting receiver JordynTysonto go alongside Chris Olave All of asudden, the Saintshave playmakers and quality depthat the skill positions.

Expect more from Moore

If you watched Kellen Moore from the time he was firstnamed the Saintshead coach in February

Rams report to camp with eyeonDonald

BY GREG BEACHAM AP sportswriter

LOSANGELES Aaron Donald is still determining whether he is ready and able to return to the Los Angeles Rams, but coach Sean McVay said theteam will welcome the superstar defensive lineman if he decidestoend his two-season retirement. While the Rams reportedto training camp at LoyolaMarymount University on Saturday, McVay said he has no idea whether one of the greatest defensive linemen in recent NFL history will decide to resumehis career “Ifthat is something thathe wants to do, we’re going to try to be able to make that happen,” McVay said. “But Igenuinely do not have an answer on whether he is or he isn’t.I knowhe’spreparing himself to be able to make that decision,and Iknowifhe feels good, he’sgoing to be ready to rock. If not, he doesn’towe us anything.”

AP FILE PHOTOByKyUSUNGGONG Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVaywatches hisplayers during the team’spractice on June 2in Woodland Hills,Calif.

men and process that’ssimilar to what he did when he played.”

to being more of what certain peoplewanted,they still fired me.”

WhileClark was joined by other prominent figuresonthe list of those whose time ended at ESPN this week, he rejects the ideathat he wassimplypart of thelatest round of layoffs.

“Let me put this to bed: Iwasn’t laid off; Iwas fired,” Clark said.

Karl Ravech, who spent 33 yearsat ESPN; Carolina Panthers legend Cam Newton; and NFL insider TomPelissero werealso among thosewho losttheir jobsatESPN

community.I wouldn’tchange anything because that means the world to me.

“When Igohome andthis kid, youknow,from the West Bank is like so accepted in New Orleans now,like Iwouldn’tchange that. Never.All Iever wanted is to be accepted andwanted. So yeah, Iwouldn’tchange that.”

“Let me put this to bed: Iwasn’tlaid off; Iwas fired.”

RyAN CLARK, former ESPN analyst and NFL, LSU player

WhileClark made it clear that he is displeased with theway ESPN treated him, he didn’tbecomeemotional until he was asked whether therewas anythinghe’d change about his time with the network.

“It depends on whenyou ask me,” said Clark,who began to struggle to get his words out. “Likewhen Isee people in public …theytell me they’re proud of me. They’re proud of theway Irepresent the

According to The Athletic,anon-air conflict between Clark andPeter Schragerplayeda roleinthe former defensive back’souster at the network. During adebate on “Get Up” about the Dallas Cowboys,Clarksaid Schrager’s perspective on his opinion was “the nonplayer” in him

Schrager instantlypushedback on thecommentand Clark later apologized.

On ThePivot,Clark indicatedthe incident was overblown.

“Meand Peterdon’t have an issue,”hesaid. “If you ask him right nowafter what wenton, nobody has been nicer to him.”

STAFF FILEPHOTO By BRETTDUKE Saints defensivecoordinator Brandon Staley givesdirections during trainingcamp on Aug. 5atthe team’s practice facility in Metairie.

2025 to where heisnow,it’squite clear heismore comfortable in hisrole.

He’sbuilt the culture he wants, putting an emphasis on team bonding. All thebow fishing trips and community service projects theteam has doneaway from the practice facilityonAirline Drivehaveallowed players to get to know their teammates. As a result, they believeineach other Butmore importantly,they believe in their 38-year-old coach.

The ship could have easily sank last season when the Saints started theseason 2-10. Moore kept theteam afloat anditwon four of its last five games. Yes, the schedule was pretty light down thestretch,but awin is awin in theNFL

Expect Moore to show someimprovement in Year 2, especially now that he hassome new toysto playwith on offense.

Staley’sdefense

The Saints finishedninth in the league in yards allowed per game last season. Not bad for aunit playing anew scheme under firstyear coordinatorBrandonStaley

Also notbad for ateam that wasmissing defensive end Chase Young forthe first five weeks of the season. Young, who recorded a career-high 10 sacks in 2025, could surpassthat number this season.

Demario Davis is now with the New York Jets, but Kaden Elliss should be more than capable of fillinghis shoes. Depth at cornerback is the biggestconcern.

If the defense can duplicate last season’ssuccess, thereisa good chance Staley could find himself

fielding phone calls to become a head coach again.

Down South

If we’ve learned anything from thepast four years, it’sthat the NFC South is always there for the taking

The Carolina Panthers,whom theSaints swept last season, won thedivision despite an 8-9 record. It was thesecond time since 2022 ateam has won the division with just eight wins. Only once in the past four years has ateam in the division won 10 games (the 2024 Bucs finished 10-7).The average wins for the division champions is 8.75 over the last four years. So, anywhere from 8-10 wins could be enough towin it.

The Saints finished 6-11 and last in the NFC Southlast season. Even that could be areason for hope. There have been 24 seasons since theNFL went to eight divisions. In 20 of those 24 seasons, at least one team has gone from worst in thedivision one year to winning the division thenext. The Saints have gone from worst to first twice. The first time was 20 years ago in Sean Payton and Brees’ first season in New Orleans. The second time was three years later,when theSaints won theSuper Bowl. Can the Saints go from worst to first againand winanother SuperBowl?Thatmay be a stretch, but can they at least get to the playoffs? The vibes in July say they can. I say they will.

Email RodWalker at rwalker@theadvocate.com.

McVay said Puka Nacua is expected to practiceintraining camp while the Rams work on the next contract for their AllProreceiver,who is entering the final year of his rookie deal. The coach saidNFL MVP Matthew Stafford is fully healthybut will sit out multiple practices in trainingcamp as part of amodified preparation schedule to keep the 38-year-old quarterback fresh for thelong season ahead.

The Rams also confirmed firstroundpickTySimpson hadformally signedhis four-year,$25.4 million rookie contract as he begins atraining camp competition with StetsonBennett forthe backup job behind Stafford. But McVay waseager to talk about aplayer whowasn’treporting to the Loyola Marymount dorms —Donald, who anchored theRams defense for adecade before he retired somewhat abruptly in March 2024. Donald apparently beganto entertainthe idea of acomeback early last month after the Rams acquired superstar pass rusher MylesGarrett in atrade with Cleveland. The prospect of lining up next to oneofhis fewcontemporarypeers compelled the now35-year-oldDonaldtobegin an extensive workout programaimed at returning him to footballshape.

“He is going through his process, andheisputting himself in aposition to makeadecision,” McVay said. “He’searned the right to be able to do that. He’s very diligent. Anything that he does,hedoes all-in, and so he’s going through avery strict regi-

SAINTS

Continued from page1C

sixth-straight season crossing the 1,000-snapthreshold. In that same span, Davis playednofewer than97% of theteam’s snaps per season. That availability led to reliable, down-to-down production year in and year out. Luckily for the Saints, Elliss has similardurability.Henot only played in every game for the Falconsover the last three years but he’salso coming offa campaign in which he logged 100% of theteam’sdefensive snaps: 1,103. Elliss may not be aone-for-one replacement for Davis, but like his former mentor, the 2019 seventh-roundershould be aplayer the coaching staff knows it can rely on.

Thelowdown

Therewill be aspects of Davis’ game that theSaintswill miss. Beyond his leadership, which players say can’tbe filled by just oneguy,Davis wasstill avery effective run stopperand easily could identify opposing plays at this late stageofhis career Oneofthe reasonsDavis said he wanted to keep playing is that he seta career-high in tackles last season with 143. ButElliss can makeadifferent impact in 2026. Perhaps he can even let defensivecoordinator Brandon Staley becomemore exotic in how he wants to deploy his linebackers. In Atlanta, Elliss was used all over the field. Just last year,according to Next Gen Stats, he alignedasa traditional linebacker,asanedge rusher and was even disguised as adefensive tackle —where he’d be slotted next to an interior lineman with arusher on the edge. That versatility unlocked Ellissasapass rusher as he recorded87pressures and 121/2 sacksinhis last three seasons.

Donald hung it up nearly 21/2 years ago after avery successful decade spent entirely with the RamsinSt. Louisand Los Angeles. He racked up ateam-record 111 sacksasthe heart of thedefense, winning the AP NFLDefensive Player of theYearthree times while earning eight All-Pro selectionsand 10 Pro Bowlselections. Donald led the Rams to achampionship in the 2021-22 season, making the decisive defensive plays in both the NFC title gameand the Super Bowl victory over Cincinnati in their home SoFi Stadium.

“I mean, him being the greatest of all time, I’m sure he’d have a pretty good impact, right?” defensive lineman Braden Fiske said. “It’sonly been two years, but if you’ve seen the (workout) videos, it doesn’tseem like he’s lost too muchofwhere he’sat. If it happens, great. If not, you know,we’ll play some good football.” Fiske is among the linemen whose snap counts could be affectedifDonald returns, but the Ramsappear to be wholeheartedly excited about theprospect of adding Donald to aroster already considered to be among the Super Bowlfavorites.

“I think if AD makesthe decision to come back, he’sgoing to want to play the whole year, just knowing how he is and the mindset that he has,” said left guard Steve Avila, who played with Donald as arookie in 2023.

“I don’tthink he’d be halfwayin, halfway out with being part of the team,and that’sjust what you expect from someoneasgreat as him.”

Davis,assmartand productive as he is, is no longerthe pass-rushing threat he used to be. After back-to-back 61/2-sack campaigns in 2022 and2023, Davis has just 21/2 sacks over the last twoyears. In that samespan, Elliss recorded 81/2 Outside of Elliss, this is astrong room —even without alot of bodies at the position. Pete Werner has been auseful starter,while the Saints found productive roles for Danny Stutsman and Isaiah Stalbird last season.Stalbird, Stutsman and Jaylan Ford also contributemeaningfully to special teams.

Training camp battle Wernerhas been a fixture at linebacker for thelast four seasons, but could his starting spot be in danger?

For that to happen, it would take atrue commitmentfrom coach Kellen Mooreand Staley to rotate in other linebackers acrossfromElliss. And that didn’toccur at all during OTAs and mandatory minicamp, although training camp is usually when that sort of shuffling begins. But acompetitioncould be worthexploring.The Saints liked what they saw last year out of Stutsman,who played 19% of the snaps and would often replace Wernerwhile doing so Werner has been solid as apro, but he arguably does not produce enough high-impact plays. In five seasons, he hasrecordedonly one interception and two forced fumbles. He didrecordtwo sacksand recover three fumbles in 2025. The Saints could opttouse Elliss as aweak-side linebacker andnot just amiddle linebacker, despite the veteran wearing“the green dot,” which signifies that Elliss can relate Staley’s play call to the rest of the defense. That would then open up aspot at middle linebacker,where Stutsman played primarily in college

Staff report

ESPN analyst Ryan Clark speaksbeforeaMonday night NFL game between theHoustonTexans and Dallas Cowboys on Nov. 18,2024, in Arlington, Texas. Clark was let go by ESPN last week.

OUTDOORS

PROVIDED PHOTO

Nathanial Watts took home first place in the 7-to-10-yearage group with a five-bass catch weighing 6.17 pounds in lastweekend’sJuniorSouthwest Bassmasters Julytournament held from the Amelia publiclaunch. TheLivingston anglerposedwithhis dad,MatthewWatts,who finished second in the adult division. The father-sonteamwas among 13 anglers bringing in a five-bass limit on ahot, sultryday in the marshes and the Verret Basin

15-18 age group: 1,

MONDAY RED STICK FLYFISHERS

FLY-TYING SESSION: 7p.m., Bluebonnet Regional Library

9200 Bluebonnet Blvd., Baton Rouge. Open to thepublic. Materials and tools available for beginners. Website: www. rsff.org

THURSDAY-SATURDAY

BASSMASTER HIGH SCHOOL

CHAMPIONSHIP: Kentucky Lake, Paris, Tennessee. Website: bassmaster.com

SATURDAY

WOOD STORK/WADING BIRD

VIEWING: 7-10 a.m., South Farm, Sherburne Wildlife Management Area. Ponds drained exposing feeding opportunity for storks, wading and shorebirds. No fee except 18 and older must have aWMA Access Annual or a 5-daypermits from Wildlife &Fisheries website: louisianaoutdoors.com

FRIENDS OF NRA/NORTHSHORE BANQUET: 5:30p.m., American Legion Post 16,2031 Ronald Reagan Hwy., Covington. Call Jeffrey Antwiller (504) 616-1140. Email: jeffreyantwiler@gmail.com

ONGOING STATEWIDE TOURNAMENT &ANGLERS RODEO/S.T.A.R.: Through Sept. 7, Coastal Conservation Association’s summer-long fishing event Tagged redfish,coastal/off-

shorespecies categories& youthdivision. CCAmembership required. Website: ccalouisiana.com/star

LOTTERYHUNTS

DOVE/TEAL: July 27application deadline for dove hunt on ElbowSlough Wildlife Management Area &tealhunt on White LakeWetlandsConservation Area. Website applicationsonly on Wildlife & Fisheries/Louisiana Outdoors License, Permits and Tags webpage. Fee$8.50. Details: dove hunt,David Hayden at dhayden@wlf.la.gov; teal hunt,Lance Ardoin at lardoin@wlf.la.gov

AROUND THECORNER

AUG. 6— LA. WILDLIFE &FISHERIES COMMISSIONMEETING: 9:30 a.m JoeHerringRoom, state Wildlifeand Fisheries headquarters, Quail Drive, Baton Rouge.

AUG. 7— FRIENDS OF NRA/ ACADIANA BANQUET: 5:30 p.m., RiverOaksCatering &Event Center,520 East Kaliste Saloom Rd Lafayette. Call Kendall Comeaux(337) 2985236. Email: kcomeau10x@ aol.com

AUG. 8— NSCA REGISTERED SPORTING CLAYS: Bridge View Gun Club, Port Allen.

AUG. 8—FRIENDS OF NRA/CENLA BANQUET: 5p.m., Randolph Riverfront Center, 707 Second St.,Alexandria. Call Paul Mahfouz (318) 528-0382. Email: paul.mahfouz@yahoo.com

FISHING/SHRIMPING

SHRIMP: Spring inshore season closed except for Breton/Chandeleur sounds; all outside waters open.

OPEN RECREATIONAL SEA-

SONS: Private recreational redsnapper;flounder;lane, blackfin, queen and silk snappers &wenchmen among other snapper species; all groupers except closed for goliath &Nassau groupers in state/federal waters.

CLOSED SEASONS: Greater amberjack; gray triggerfish (opens Aug. 1);bluefin tuna; gag, goliath &Nassau groupers in state/federal waters. Commercial greater amberjack season closed.

LDWF UPDATES

n CLOSED: Hope CanalRoad/ boat launch (Maurepas Swamp WMA, levee construction);ReserveRelief Canal Boat Launch by order of Corps of Engineers (Reserve Relief Pump Station construction) with alternate launch locations at Pete’sLanding, the Akers boat ramp &Bonnet Carré Spillway boat launch.

n DRAWDOWNS: Saline Lake (Natchitoches/Winn parishes through Oct. 5);Iatt Lake (Grant Parish throughOct. 5); Clear-Smithport Lake(DeSoto Parish beginning Aug. 3 through Nov. 16).

EMAIL: jmacaluso@theadvocate.com

Tarpon rodeomostly unscathedbyBertha

BY JOE MACALUSO

Contributing writer

Lastweek’sbrushwith atropicalsystemwasn’ta first for theGrand Isle Tarpon Rodeo and likely won’t be thelast.

In the 30 or so years attending this oldest fishing competition in our country, at least three stormshave threatened the thousands annually invading ourstate’s only inhabitedbarrier island in the final days of July Tropical storm Bertha didn’tleave scars.

Rodeoweighmaster Marty Bourgeois said the predicted storm surge wasn’tstrong enough to cover the lone access road —La. 1—to the island and there wasn’t enough rain to cover the island’sprone-to-flooding roadway

“We’ve got alight breeze on the island,” Bourgeois said Friday,the rodeo’ssecondday.Thursday’sopening-day festivities were postponed until 5p.m. and Bourgeoissaid he andhis team weighed in only three fish,aspeckled troutand two gafftopsail catfish. Friday was busier,mostly because seas calmed.

“Wewere able to runeverywhere,”charter skipper Frand Dreher saidFriday.“Just the fishing’snot thatgood We’reworked hard, and ran alot of water to catch seven (speckled) trout. There’sa lot of muddy water everywhere in theback.”

The “back” takes in Barataria and Caminada bays, vast waters northofGrand Isle.

The finalleaderboard for this 99th rodeo is available on

NOTEBOOK

its website: tarponrodeo.org.

Chasingbass

It’snosecret about our weather.It’shot andthe water gets alittle hotter each day,and that usually means it’stough to find bass in a biting mood

So,let’slet theJunior SouthwestBassmasters show us the way.The club’s Julytournament washeld from theAmelia public landing, which meant most of theanglers were fishing in the marsh.

While there were no topweight recordsbroken, there was enough action for the fieldtoboast of weighing in 13 five-bass limits, asureenough sign the bass were ready to eat.All the eight young fishermen taking top spots in theage groups weigheda limit alongwith the top three in the adult division. The youngsters fish with an adult “guide.”

Club reporter Jim Breaux said most of the fish took crank baits, bladed jigs and avariety of softplastics.

Redsnapper

The latest one-week catch forthe private recreational sectorislikelya record. In theweek ending July 5, offshore fishermen took 217,791 pounds to boost this year’s total haulto632,882 pounds. That’snearly 72% of our state’s882,439-pound allocation forthie year

That record-setting estimate from LA Creel came after the Fourth of July holiday when thedaily limit was increased to five

forthe four-day holiday period, andcameafter calm seas allowedthe June 28 estimate to reach 126,442 pounds. The one-week estimate forthe week ending June 21 was22,229.

More on snapper

Despite state management of red snapper, the Gulf Council continuesto, in its words, “gain abetter understanding of what’s happening with red snapperinthe Gulf,”and wants active offshore reef fishermen to provide information through its Fisherman Feedback Tool. The council has put a 4p.m. Aug. 21 deadline for this information.You can find theFeedback Tool on the council’swebsite: gulfcouncil.org

Oh them hogs

The U.S. Department of Agriculture hasa pool of $35 million to offerto partnerships to control the threat of feral hogsto“agriculture, landscapes and human and livestock health.” In theannouncement, NRCSboss Colton Buckley said feralhogs’ damage to agriculture, ranches and habitat landscapes amounts to $3.4 billionannually,and this newfunding plantocontrol theferal hog populationwill “expand this effort, giving producers andpartners more resources to protect working lands and strengthen the long-termresilience of agricultural operations.” Louisiana is among14 states included. Applications will be accepted until 10:59 p.m. Sept. 21. Go to this website: Grants.gov

6. LennyMartinez, France,

ous, 05:00:46.

7. Jai Hindley,Australia,Red

Hansgrohe, 05:01:54. 8. Mattias Skjelmose, Denmark,Lidl-Trek

05:02:34

9.JuanAyuso,Spain, Lidl-Trek, same time.

10. Paul Seixas, France,DecathlonCMA CGM Team, same time.

Also: 3. Sepp Kuss, United States, Team Visma Lease aBike, 05:00:10

12. Matthew Riccitello,United States, Decathlon CMA CGM Team, 05:06:36 19. Quinn Simmons, United States, Lidl-Trek

05:09:41. 26.SeanQuinn,United States, EF EducationEasyPost, 05:17:07. 56. Matteo Jorgenson, United States,Team Visma ‘Lease aBike, 05:34:49 Overall Standings: 1. Tadej Pogacar, Slovenia, UAETeam Emirates XRG, 72:53:44. 2. Remco Evenepoel, Belgium, RedBull Bora—Hansgrohe, 73:00:10 3. Isaac Del Toro Romero, Mexico, UAETeam Emirates XRG, 73:03:26. 4. Paul Seixas, France, Decathlon CMA CGM Team, 73:05:40. 5. LennyMartinez, France, Bahrain Victorious, 73:06:46. 6. Mattias Skjelmose, Denmark, Lidl-Trek, 73:08:43. 7.JuanAyuso, Spain, Lidl-Trek, 73:11:32 8. RichardCarapaz, Ecuador,EFEducationEasyPost, 73:13:44. 9. TomPidcock, United Kingdom, Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team, 73:23:12. 10. Jordan Jegat, France, TotalEnergies, 73:27:05. Also: 13. Sepp Kuss, United States, Team Visma Lease aBike, 73:56:07. 18. Quinn Simmons, United States, Lidl-Trek, 74:29:12. 19.SeanQuinn,United States, EF EducationEasyPost, 74:40:49. 24. Matthew Riccitello, United States, Decathlon CMA CGM Team, 75:04:53 30. Matteo Jorgenson, United States, Team Visma ‘Lease aBike, 75:27:13

Withdrew Stage 18 Brandon McNulty,United States, UAETeam Emirates XRG, 60:57:21.

Tennis

ATPWorld Tour Generali Open

Results

Saturday At Tennis Stadium Kitzbuhel Kitzbuhel, Austria Purse: €612,620 Surface: Redclay Results SaturdayfromGeneraliOpen at Tennis Stadium Kitzbuhel (seedings in parentheses):

Men’s Singles

Championship Quentin Halys, France, def. Alexander Bublik (1), Kazakhstan,6-4, 7-6 (6)

Men’s Doubles Championship Lucas Miedler, Austria, and MarcPolmans (2), Australia, def. Jakob Schnaitter and Mark Wallner (3), Germany, 6-2,6-2.

WTALivesport Prague Open

Results

Saturday At TK Sparta Praha

Prague Purse: $283,347 Surface: Hardcourt outdoor Results SaturdayfromLivesportPrague Open at TK Sparta Praha (seedings in parentheses):

Women’s Singles

Semifinals Daria Snigur (8), Ukraine, def. Tereza Valentova (5), Czechia, 7-6 (4), 6-3. Lilli Tagger, Austria, def.BarboraKrejcikova (2), Czechia, 6-7 (5), 6-3, 7-6 (4)

Women’s Doubles Semifinals Lucie Havlickovaand LauraSamson, Czechia, def. Hao-Ching Chan, Taiwan, and Miyu (1994) Kato (3), Japan, 5-7,6-3, 11-9.

WTAHamburgEuropean Open

Results

Saturday At Am Rothenbaum Rot-WeissTennis Club Hamburg, Germany Purse: €246,338

Surface: Redclay Results SaturdayfromHamburgEuropean

Open at Am Rothenbaum Rot-WeissTennis

Club (seedings in parentheses):

Women’s Singles

Semifinals Anna Bondar (4), Hungary, def. Elina Avanesyan, Russia, 7-6 (3), 4-6,7-6 (2).

TamaraKorpatsch (5), Germany, def. Mayar

SherifAhmed Abdelaziz, Egypt, 6-1,2-0, ret.

Women’s Doubles

Semifinals

Dalila Jakupovic and Nika Radisic,Slovenia, def. Zhibek Kulambayeva, Kazakhstan, and Darja Semenistaja, Latvia, 6-2,6-1.

AlexandraPanova,Russia, and Magali Kempen (1), Belgium, def. IrinaKhromacheva, Russia, and Anastasia Detiuc (3), Czechia, 6-4, 6-3.

ATPWorld Tour Millennium

Estoril Open Results

Saturday At Clube de TenisdoEstoril

Estoril, Portugal Purse: €612,620

Surface: Redclay

Results SaturdayfromMillennium Estoril

Open at Clube de TenisdoEstoril (seedings in parentheses): Men’s Singles

Semifinals

Luca VanAssche, France, def. Hugo Gaston, France, 6-4, 7-5. Men’s Doubles

Semifinals

Titouan Droguet and Kyrian Jacquet, France, def. Nuno Borges and Francisco Cabral, Portugal, 6-7 (6),6-4, 11-9.

Golf

3M Open

Saturday At TPC Twin Cities

Blaine, Minn. Purse: $8.8million Yardage: 7,431; Par: 71 ThirdRound

Jackson Koivun

64-68-61—193 -20

Emiliano Grillo 64-67-65—196 -17

Ben Kohles 62-69-65—196 -17

Michael Brennan 65-69-63—197 -16

Chandler Phillips66-65-66—197 -16 Billy Horschel 67-66-65—198 -15 Michael Kim 69-59-70—198 -15

DennyMcCarthy 66-68-64—198 -15

Brian Harman 69-64-66—199 -14

Seamus Power68-68-63—199 -14

Scottie Scheffler 65-70-64—199 -14

1. (77) Carson Hocevar,Chevrolet, 186.598 mph.

2. (7)Daniel Suárez, Chevrolet,186.382.

3. (45) Tyler Reddick, Toyota, 186.077.

4. (54) Ty Gibbs, Toyota, 185.966.

5. (11) Denny Hamlin, Toyota, 185.835.

6. (71) Michael McDowell, Chevrolet,185.762.

7. (67) CoreyHeim, Toyota, 185.456.

8. (48) Alex Bowman, Chevrolet,185.368.

9. (16) AJ Allmendinger, Chevrolet, 185.345.

10. (5)Kyle Larson, Chevrolet,185.315.

11. (19) Chase Briscoe, Toyota, 185.269.

12. (41) Cole Custer, Chevrolet,185.265.

13. (12) Ryan Blaney, Ford,185.197.

14. (43) Erik Jones,Toyota, 185.060.

15. (17) Chris Buescher, Ford,184.991.

16. (6)BradKeselowski, Ford,184.896.

17. (42) John H. Nemechek, Toyota, 184.877.

18. (35) RileyHerbst, Toyota, 184.782.

19. (22) JoeyLogano, Ford,184.699.

20. (3)AustinDillon, Chevrolet,184.699.

21. (24) WilliamByron, Chevrolet,184.574.

22. (1)RossChastain, Chevrolet, 184.540.

23. (20) Christopher Bell, Toyota, 184.287.

24. (47) Ricky StenhouseJr, Chevrolet, 184.245.

25. (97) Shane VanGisbergen, Chevrolet, 184.237.

26. (21) Josh Berry,Ford, 184.128.

27. (9)ChaseElliott, Chevrolet, 183.887.

28. (10) Ty Dillon, Chevrolet,183.869.

29. (23) BubbaWallace, Toyota, 183.861.

30. (38) Zane Smith, Ford,183.494.

31. (88) Connor Zilisch,Chevrolet, 183.132.

32. (33) Austin Hill, Chevrolet,183.083.

33. (4)Noah Gragson, Ford,182.990.

34. (60) Ryan Preece, Ford,182.786.

35. (2)AustinCindric, Ford,182.726.

36. (34) Todd Gilliland, Ford,182.460.

37. (51) Cody Ware,Chevrolet,182.072.

38. (62) Casey Mears,Chevrolet,179.522.

39. (78) Daniel Dye, Chevrolet,178.962.

Transactions

MajorLeague Baseball American League ATHLETICS —OptionedRHP Yunior Turto Las Vegas (PCL). Recalled RHP Luis Morales from Las Vegas. Agreed to terms with SS Jonathan Ornelasonaminor league contract. BALTIMORE ORIOLES —Recalled LHP Josh Walker from Norfolk (IL).Agreedtoterms with OF Ty Head on aminor league contract. CHICAGOWHITESOX —SentLHP Tyler Gilbert on arehab assignment to Charlotte (IL).Sent RHP Drew Thorpe on arehab assignment to Winston-Salem (SAL). CLEVELAND GUARDIANS —Reinstated LF Angel Martínez from the 10-dayIL. Reinstated LHP TimHerrin from the 15-dayIL. Optioned CF Daniel Schneemann and LHP Will Dion to Columbus (IL). HOUSTON ASTROS —Agreed to terms with C Matt Thaissonaminor league contract

LIVING

‘BIBLE IN AYEAR: FAMILY EDITION’

BR priest to host new version of Catholic podcast Paws for thought

BYJOY HOLDEN Staff writer

The Rev.Joshua Johnson, pastor at Sacred Heart of JesusChurch and School in Baton Rouge, hasanew jobthis summer

He’sreading aloud and recordingthe Bible every day as the host for Ascension Press’“Bible in aYear: Family Edition” podcast, which is geared toward children between the ages of 7 and 12 and their parents. The podcast launches Jan. 1.

“I can’twait for the world to be introduced to theWordof God in away that’sreallytangible,ina waythat kids can understand and away that families can engage the Bible together,” Johnson said.

Launched in 2021, “The Bible in aYear” podcast with the Rev.Mike Schmitz walks listeners through the entire Biblein 365 episodes, providing commentary, reflection and prayer along the way. It reached 1billion total downloads in March and is the top religiouspodcast in the world, according to Ascension Press —aCatholic media organization.

Johnson will guide youngsters and their families through the “Great Adventure Bible for Beginners” from Genesisto Revelation with explanations, insightsand encouragement.

Johnson’sSacred Heart students are included in the episodesaswell

Twelve years ago, only one weekafter he was ordained as a priest, Ascension Press reached out to Johnson to work with him. Since then, he has written five books, hostedapodcast(“Ask Fr.Josh”) and created spiritual formation materials.

Now,heisthe voice and face of the new “Bible in aYear,”

As the schoolyear starts,we’re thinkingabout thepeoplewho stand at the front of the room, who open classroom doorswith asmile. Sometimes astranger in August becomes the person a student never forgets. Certain teachers saysomething on arandom October afternoon and studentsrepeat it for decades to come —orateacher mayleadbyexample and give in waysthat changes lives. We invite readers to tell us about thatteacher who made all the difference: write aletter directly to the teacher and send it to us. Or tell the story plain:a name, aclassroom andthe moment that stuck. We’relooking for the lessons that have outlasted the chalkboard(or the dry-erase board,as the case maybe). Send your letter or story,including the name of the teacher, name of school, city and year to jan.risher@ theadvocate.com by 2 p.m.July 28. Photos of theteacherare also welcome.

ATALL ORDER

FBY JANRISHER Staff writer

ew people takeaski trip to Africa. But that’swhatBaton Rouge’sMichael Mathews did in February —one stop in aquest to ski seven continentsinunder 300 days while filming aseries of documentaries aboutthe adventure.

He didnot expect the skiing in Morocco to fall into the“resort” category —and he was correct. To skidown, Mathews first had to climb13,000 feet intothe Atlas Mountains with no lift or rope tow His local guide was observingRamadan, which meant no food or water from the break of dawn until thesun set. Together they climbed anyway,one step at atime. Africa was Mathews’ third continent of 2026. Four to go.

Asia

Mathews started the yearonskis in Asia, literally.OnNew Year’sDay,with hisfamily,heskiedthe Mount Yotei volcanoinJapan. Continent one, underway

He has scheduled much of his travel around family milestones.His 18-yearoldson graduated from high school in May and startscollege in August. By February,Mathews hadaddedcontinent two —a helicopter trip intothe

‘NOW I’VE REALIZED —THERE’S A

Meet Luxand Pax, theK-9 team patrolling Our Lady of theLake Children’s Hospital

BY JOYHOLDEN Staff writer

TwoGerman shepherds, Lux and Pax, patrol the floors of Our Ladyofthe LakeChildren’sHospital alongside their handlers. Lux is part Czechoslovakian shepherd. They are there to help alleviate anxiety among healthcare workers and patients and to provide another level of security by searching the campus for signs of danger Eric Sean Clay,vice president and chief security officer for FMOL Health, started the K-9 security program with the goal of healthcare workers and patients feeling better protected. Clay,formerly the vice president of securityatMemorial HermannHealthSystemin Houston, Texas, is working to elevate and standardize security across the FMOL Health system. In June of 2025, he successfully integrated K-9 units at Memorial Hermann, and so Clay introduced theideatoFMOLHealth this year.The dogs have been working daily at OLOL Children’sHospital since June 29. “The thing for us is the ability to mitigate anxietybecause caregivers areconcernedabout their safety,” Clay said. “We’re doing alot acrossthe systemtomake themfeel betterprotected.”

Officer Richard

theyinspectthe room during a demonstration in aclassroom at the Our Ladyofthe Lake Children’sHospital on Monday in Baton Rouge.

Thedogs also offer some distraction for the patients, Clay said.

“Whenever they’re here,it’s typically nota good dayfor them,” Clay said, adding that seeing the dogs can provide a much-needed distraction. Clay said the dogs are trained to sniff outfirearms, follow thescentand tell the handlers where firearmsare.

“They can pick up on things that we might not,” Clay said. “If someone wasable to access the facility fromadifferent door than through ourweapons detection, these dogs are trained to look for things like bullets, solventsthatare usedin cleaning these guns, lubricants, different types of explosives.”

The dogs’ sense of smell is about 100,000 times stronger than humans’, Clay said. The two dogs have becomea sensation at the hospital. Sometimes,theyhavetoleave floor units because everyone wants to pet them and take pictures with them Lux’sK-9 handlerisJoshua Hilliard,aBaton Rouge native McKinleyHigh School alumnus and Army National Guard soldier.This assignment is Hilliard’s first K-9experience.

MICHAEL MATHEWS

STAFF PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON K-9Pax pays attention to

Borneman as

Johnson

Michael Mathews pours mint tea as part of afood tour breaking of Ramadanfast. The pouring of mint tea is atradition to welcome others and break the fast. The tour took place in the Old Medina of Marrakech, Morocco.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Teen Insight Radio Project

Members of Teen Insight Radio Project gathered for a reunion show at FM 106.1 WTQT on June 27. The show’s host, Zipporah ‘LadyZ’ Johnson, celebrated 20 years in radio. Shown are, from left, Zacchaeus Williams, track & field junior Olympian; Brandon Givens club save; Raheem Allen, writer/producer, Allen Brothers Studio; Zipporah Johnson; Mariah Johnson; Quinton Triplett, gospel rapper; Albert Torregano, Teen Insight manager; and Ivan Britten, youth minister

Lakeshore Lions Club

PROVIDED PHOTO

Stephanie Sterling and Noelle young spoke at the July 20 lunch meeting of the Lakeshore Lions Club Gathered are, from left, Sterling executive director of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Baton Rouge; young volunteer coordinator; Eric Hogan, Lakeshore Lions Club president; and Bob Bogan, Lakeshore Lions member

Baton Rouge-area Submarine Veterans

Members of the Baton Rouge-area Submarine Veterans held a bimonthly meeting on June 9

Seafood Restaurant. Shown are, from left, seated, John ‘Tiny’ Ruisch, James

William Powell, Commander James Stell, Bill Pedneau, Stuart Dupre and Brian Watson; standing, Jimmy Fountain, William Harden, Kirk Gillard, Charles Paradelas, Darryl Esthay, Thomas Lacy, David Voisin, Donald Neisler, Daniel Ross, Kevin

David Reynolds, Jimmie Campbell and Brien Dickson.

COMMUNITY GUIDELINES

The Community column runs Sundays in the Living section and accepts submissions for news of events that have taken place with civic, philanthropic, social and religious auxiliary organizations, as well as academic honors.

Submissions should be sent by noon Monday to run in the upcoming Sunday column. Because of space limitations, organizations that meet monthly or more are limited to one photo per month. If submitting digitally, we prefer JPG files 300KB or larger If taking a photo of a group, have them stand or sit shoulder-to-shoulder.

If more than six people are in the photo, arrange them on multiple, distinct rows.Avoid strong background light sources.

Identify those pictured by first and last names as viewed from left to right, row by row.We prefer emailed Community column submissions to features@theadvocate.com.We also accept submissions by mail at P.O Box 588, Baton Rouge LA 70821.A phone number must be included.

Iconic Hollywood theater to reopen

Cinerama Dome was shuttered during COVID

By The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES

The Cinerama Dome, a landmark Hollywood theater shuttered during the COVID-19 pandemic, will be restored and reopen. Alamo Drafthouse Cinema will operate the massive 86-foot-wide curved dome theater and an adjacent 14-theater complex. Alamo’s owner Sony Pictures Entertainment, announced the plan to restore the Dome and reopen it in early 2028. Alamo’s plan will preserve the distinctive Cinerama Dome’s geodesic exterior and large logo that have been a Hollywood landmark since the theater opened in 1963. The dome will not have in-theater dining, as is common in other Drafthouse

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO

The Cinerama Dome, a Hollywood theater shuttered during the COVID-19 pandemic, will be restored and reopen

theaters.

“There is no moviegoing destination anywhere in the world that commands the affection, history, and cultural significance of the Cinerama Dome. It represents the kind of singular experience we value and champion,” said Ravi Ahuja, chairman and

CEO, Sony Pictures Entertainment. Alamo Drafthouse CEO Michael Kustermann said the dome would be its new West Coast flagship theater

The dome’s massive screen supports 70 mm projection, which is having a moment thanks to Christo-

pher Nolan’s “The Odyssey.” It was commissioned in 1963 by Pacific Theatres founder William R. Forman as a state-of-the-art way to see movies using three projectors for its custom curved screen. When the dome closed in April 2021, it was one of only three theaters in the world with that capability Its operator, Pacific Theaters, announced the closing was caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Michael O’Leary, the president and CEO of the movie theater trade group Cinema United, applauded the news. “The Cinerama Dome has been a treasured and important landmark for movie fans and the entire film community for over six decades,” O’Leary said in a statement. “The timing could not be better with moviegoers making clear this year that they love the unique experience of seeing a movie on the big screen.”

PROVIDED PHOTO

at Drusilla

Powell,

Vizinat,

TRAVEL

In aconeorinabowl, icecream hits thespot

BY CHERÉ COEN Contributing writer

Technically,July is National Ice Cream Month,established by President Ronald Reagan in 1984.

But since when do we need an official date to enjoy one of life’s

finest culinary creations? Below, we’ve compiled afew favorite ice cream stopsthroughout the South to offer ideas on where to get your next fix.

RumblinginBowlingGreen

Chaney’sDairyBarn

Bowling Green, Ky

The bold Big Red Rumble flavorpays tribute to one of Bowling Green’smost recognizable icons

—Western Kentucky University’s “Big Red”mascot, alarger-thanlife character receiving some recent national attention.

Big Red Rumble takes awhite chocolate base with red velvet cake and adds chocolate flakes and fudge swirl.

TheDrPepperFloat

Dr Pepper Museum

Waco,Texas

I’m both afan of Dr Pepper and Blue Bell Ice Cream, so imaginemydelight in discovering a handmade float consisting of both served at the old-fashioned ice cream fountain at the Dr Pepper Museum.

It’satreat to tourthe museum and learn that Dr Pepper was officially introduced to the rest of America at the 1904 World’sFair in St. Louis, along with the first hamburger buns, hot dog buns and ice cream cones.

Don’tmiss astop at thecounter for a float.

TRAVEL TROUBLESHOOTER

By ChristopherElliott

Shakin’itup

Brent’s Drugs

Jackson, Miss

Jackson’sFondrenneighborhood is astepback in time, much of its retro buildings used in the filmingof“The Help,” set in the early 1960s.

Visitors will feel they have entered the mid-20th century at Brent’sDrugs, where the soda fountain has been serving meals andice cream concoctions since 1946.

Customers can choosefrom shakes, sundaes, floats and pie, but if you love the added taste of malt, theMaltdown shakecombines crushed Whoppers,malt and vanilla ice cream.

Soft servewithaview

BigWalker Lookout in Wytheville,Va

At theconfluence of U.S. Highways52and 621 (Walker Mountain Road) outsideWytheville is a100footobservationtower where five

states can be seen on aclear day

Scale the tower and peruse the BW Country Storethathostsmusicians and artists in addition to hot dogs, fudge anddelicious soft-serve ice cream.

Homemade icecream in hand-rolledwafflecones

Sweet Things Ice Cream Lexington,Va

You’ll be hard-pressed tobelieve that thehomemade ice cream at Sweet Things is low in sugar.It’s the high percentageofbutterfat thatgives the scoops such rich flavor —and boy is it good.

Chris andPatty Williams run thelandmark Lexington shop that utilizes local dairies and insists on authenticingredients —their vanilla must originate within two degrees of theequator, for instance —tomake its 26 flavors. Be sure to choosethe wafflecones, handrolled on-site,which is atreat to watch.

Sweetand salty Island Ice Cream& Treats GulfShores,Ala.

When temperatures soar,nothing cools off like adip in the Gulf and an ice cream cone —just not at the same time! It’s the perfect combination.Choose one scoop or two of Sea Salt Caramel, aBlue Bell flavor that’salittle sweet and alittle salty, just like your beach vacation.

Peachplease The yard MilkshakeBar

The Yard has numerous locations throughout the Deep South, includinginGulfShores,Destin andFlowood, Mississippi. There’s much to choose from, but if peach calls your name, try theSprite with Blue Bell’sPeachyPeach icecreamand strawberry drizzle topped with whippedcream and morestrawberry drizzle.

Forsomething trulydecadent, the Mint Brownie Mudslide fea-

tures mint chocolate chip ice cream in amarshmallow-dipped Mason jar rolled in crushed Oreo cookiesand toppedwith abrownie, whipped cream, drizzleand more crushed Oreo cookies.

ADollywood special Showstreet Ice CreamatDollywood PigeonForge,Tenn.

Mayfield Dairy Farms created the Smoky Mountain Fudge flavor especially forDollywood and, much like Dollywood, it’s an ice creamthatembracesfun anda touch of Smoky Mountainmagic The package design changes to reflect the latest attraction opening in the park. Right now,it’spromoting the new NightFlight Exhibition ride.

Closer to home

LolliPops Sweets Shoppe in Gonzales serves up aLouisiana favorite that combines what’s great about our state: apraline pecan flavor.Try the Manning Mudslide, consisting of hazelnut praline ice cream swirled with rich fudge and brownie chunks, or the cookie butterice creamatPaddycake’s Parlor in Thibodaux.

Raceland’s CentralSno,known fornot only snowballs but delicious and unique sundaes,combinescookieswithvanilla ice cream for its Biscoff Cookie Butter Sundae.

There’s so many icecream parlors in Baton Rouge, Lafayette and New Orleans that it’s impossible to namethem all.

Afew unique places to try are the LSU AgCenter Dairy Store on LSU’scampus, which serves up homemade ice cream on weekdays;a variety of icecream specialties at Borden’sindowntown Lafayette, the last retail Borden’s Ice Cream Shoppe in the world; andCreoleCreameryinNew Orleans, creating thecity’sindigenous Creole CreamCheese ice cream.

Orbitz incorrectlyissuedairline ticket,and it cost big-time

Christopher Elliott

Irecently booked around-trip flight from Minneapolis to Dublin for my wife and myself through Orbitz. Ipaid $1,626for the trip on American Airlines and Aer Lingus Months before the flight, Ireceived an email from Orbitz that Aer Lingus had canceled the PhiladelphiaDublin segmentof the flight. Icontacted Orbitz, and arepresentative told me Icouldtakea flight from Minneapolis to Dublin via London on British Airwaysand then returnona direct flight from Dublin to Minneapolis on Aer Lingus. Iagreed. The changewas confirmed on the My Trips section on Orbitz. Idownloaded the Aer Lingus appfor my phone, which showed me booked on the new flights. Iassumed all was fine. It wasn’t. During our stopover in London, British Airwayshad some initial trouble checking me in for the next legofthe flight but put me on the plane to Dublin.An agent told me to check in with Aer Lingus whenI reached Dublin.

But on my return flight,Aer Lingus refused to let me board theplane.Arepresentative claimed that Orbitz had failed to confirm the itinerary changeproperly It wasessential thatmywife and Iget back to Minneapolis that day.An airline agent told me no economy seats were available.The only seatsavailable were in business class.The costwas approximately $8,000 fortwo tickets. Combined with the original paymentfor tickets that were not honored,the costtouswas close to $10,000. Out of necessity,I agreed,and we gotto Minneapolisthat day. Iemailed Orbitz andreceived no response.Aer Lingusopeneda case file but responded that it wouldnot refund my money because it does not process refunds fortransactions made throughthird parties. Iwould like arefund of the $8,000 that IpaidAer Lingus forbusiness class tickets. This is asignificantcosttomeafter Ireceived assurances fromOrbitz that my flight back home wasconfirmed.Can you help?

—Steve Miller,Shoreview, Minn Youshould have had avalid

ticket to flyfrom Dublin toMinneapolis. Orbitzconfirmedyour new itinerary,and theairline’sapp showed you werebooked. Youhad everyreason to believe you were good to go.

So what happened?

It appears you fell into ablack hole between your online travel agency and the airlines operating your flights. When Orbitzrebooked you, it seems they created areservation code —also known as aPassengerNameRecord— but theticket was never actually issued. This is acritical distinction thattrips up many travelers. A reservationconfirms that aseat is held for you. Aticket is thepayment for that seat. Youcan have areservationcode without having aticket number.Inthe airline’scomputer, you existed as apassenger, but you hadn’ttechnically paid for the flight in their system When you checked in at Heathrow, the British Airways agent

likely saw the reservation but couldn’tgenerate aboarding pass for the second leg because the ticket number wasmissing or invalid. They sent you to Dublin hoping AerLingus could sort it out.

They couldn’t—orwouldn’t.

Youdid the right thing by trying to resolve this on the spot. But when you’re stranded in aforeign airportwith no other way home, you sometimes have to pay the ransom. In this case, that was the price of two business-class tickets.

Orbitz should have fixed this immediately.You emailed your online travel agency,but it didn’t respond. Aer Lingus also washed its hands of the problem, telling you thatbecause the booking originated with athird party,it couldn’tissue arefund. This is why Ialways advise travelers to check for aticket number,not just aconfirmation code.

That number usually starts with athree-digit code representing the airline (053 for Aer Lingus)

followed by 10 digits. If you don’t see that number,you don’thave a ticket. Ithink abrief, polite email to one of the executives at Orbitz (Expedia) might have helped. I publish the names, numbers and email addresses of Expedia’scustomer service managers on my consumer advocacy site, Elliott. org. Icontacted Expedia, which owns Orbitz, on your behalf. Arepresentative reviewed your case and admitted the mistake.

“After reviewing the situation, it appears the tickets were notissued correctly,which resulted in the airline not having his reservation,” the representative told me Expedia refunded you $8,206, covering the cost of the emergency business class tickets.

Christopher Elliott is the founder of Elliott Advocacy,anonprofit organization that helps consumers solve their problems. Email him at chris@elliott.org.

On the road again and eventful flights across the pond

BY REBECCA WISBAR

Contributing writer

After our family enjoyed various vacations via road trip, my daughter and I planned a muchanticipated trip on our own to the United Kingdom

Human Condition

Our travel was to begin with a 9 a.m. flight to Chicago. Then, the airline rescheduled us for a flight at 5 a.m. And so began our saga. We arrived in Nashville in time for our connecting flight to Chicago This isn’t so bad. We grabbed our luggage and headed to the international terminal. The serpentine line wound through the departure area TSA experience was TSA. Finally on board! My tech-savvy daughter couldn’t turn on her television. A courteous flight attendant responded to her request for assistance.

“Well,” she confided in hushed tones, “It is probably broken This airplane is crap.” Just what you

PRIEST

Continued from page 1D

geared toward families.

Ascension Press selected Johnson because of his dedicated teaching of the students at Sacred Heart of Jesus School, which includes kindergarten through middle school.

In addition to being the pastor at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church and School, Johnson is also the propaedeutic house director in the Office of Vocations & Seminarians for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Baton Rouge

With this role, he leads seminarians in their first year of formation at the Blessed Stanley Rother House of Formation.

Due to this commitment, Johnson made a deal with Baton Rouge Bishop Michael Duca that he would take a step back from any activities outside of his former duties.

But Johnson crossed paths with Ascension Press at a conference several months ago, and they told him they had been watching Johnson’s interactions with his Sacred Heart students on social media. So they pitched the podcast idea.

want to hear as you head out over the Atlantic. We arrived at Heathrow along with our luggage. All was right with the world. Our return trip was more of an adventure. Heathrow crowds made the O’Hare masses appear

It was a big commitment.

On one hand, he was excited about the opportunity to extend his teachings past the walls of Sacred Heart, especially to parents He also saw it as a chance to reach the neighbors around Sacred Heart, where the Vagabond Missionaries and St. Vincent de Paul team build friendships and deliver food.

“If someone’s not ready for the church, I think they might be a lot more open to listen to a podcast about the Bible,” Johnson said.

“It’s for Catholics around the world, but for non-Catholics, too.”

His resistance to taking on the challenge was his packed schedule, but he was also nervous about being on such a large public platform. After much prayer and consulting with Bishop Duca, Johnson said yes.

He has already recorded 100 episodes.

“I know it’s going to be good for the world, because it’s the Word of God, and the Word of God is effective,” Johnson said. “It’s been so good for me and my relationship with Jesus to just read scripture all day long.”

A sneak peek episode on YouTube is available.

Email Joy Holden at joy holden@theadvocate.com.

K-9

Continued from page 1D

“I had to get acclimated with the dog first,” Hilliard said “She’s getting used to me as far as feeding her and realizing that I’m her father in a type of way.” Hilliard said he expects Lux to listen to the commands and search She expects him to pay attention when she alerts.

Pax’s handler is Richard Borneman, a Zachary native who lived in London for 10 years working in nuclear security He has been with FMOL for a year Pax is his first K-9 dog. Born and bred in Germany, the dogs are trained at Von der Haus Gill, a police dog/working dog training center in Wapakoneta, Ohio.

Borneman and Hilliard went up to the training center for three weeks before the units began working at the hospital.

“On the first day,” Borneman said, “he grabbed Lux, and I grabbed Pax. We took them for a walk, and I think after that we were inseparable.”

The dogs live full-time with their handlers. The officers’ security cruisers are specially outfitted for the dogs, including particular climate control and spaces for dog treats, food and water.

Borneman said that he and Pax are both “all about business” at work, but at home, with Borneman’s twin daughters, the dog is relaxed and playful.

During a demonstration of the dogs’ training, Lux and Pax sniffed around a conference room at their handlers’ commands in German. Each time they found a planted object, their handlers rewarded them with a ball. Lux has a favorite tennis ball, and Pax prefers blue and purple rubber balls.

Clay said that they chose Lux and Pax because they were less aggressive, more approachable, friendly, but able to do the job.

Borneman and Hilliard tap their pockets when they need to get the dogs’ attention.

Brandon Gilmore, the security manager for FMOL Health, has been at the hospital for four years, and he said that the dogs have been a welcome addition.

Clay said that FMOL Health is already getting requests from other hospitals about when they are getting their own K-9 units. He said that Lux and Pax are system assets — based in Baton Rouge but deployable anywhere across the system.

“It’s about making the caregivers and patients feel better protected,” Clay said Email Joy Holden at joy holden@theadvocate.com.

sparse. Eventually, we were on our plane. All went well until we hit Chicago. One flight after another canceled. The boarding area was overwhelmed with passengers for three consecutive delayed flights. Then flight “A” boarded. Flights

QUEST

Continued from page 1D

backcountry of British Columbia. Friends joined him for that leg. Mathews’ global ambition started with money he’d set aside to grow

The Backpacker, the Baton Rouge store his father, Dale Mathews, opened in 1974 on Chimes Street inspired by ski trips Dale used to organize for friends. The store moved to its current Baton Rouge location on Jefferson Highway in 1982. The business has since grown.

A Lafayette location opened in 2007, the same year its founder retired. They opened a third store in Mandeville in 2023.

At 43, Mathews decided to go all in on the reason his father started the business in the first place — adventure. Along the way he’d try to break a world record and build content that might bring new attention to the store and the travel business.

The decision wasn’t made lightly

“This is a risk. It’s a financial risk and a risk of being away from the business,” he said. “You don’t know what’s going to come from it. You just don’t.”

Before this year, Mathews’ passport wasn’t full of stamps. He’d been to roughly a dozen countries, but after months of research, he decided the world ski tour was what he wanted to do.

Africa

Mathews and videographer Cam Easler climbed and skied the Atlas Mountains in Africa.

What stayed with Mathews wasn’t the climb or the skiing. It was meeting village guides who struggled to obtain even basic gear like jackets and skis. Most of what they have comes from tourists, donated or sold off as they pass through. The village where Mathews skied, Tacheddirt, didn’t get its first road until 2009.

Tacheddirt, the highest village in North Africa, is home to fewer than 500 people who farm terraced mountainsides, growing apples and walnuts and raising sheep and goats.

Their guide, Mohamed Ait Noumar, was born and raised in the village. He is Tacheddirt’s amghar — the community’s chief or elder He speaks English, French and Arabic but never learned to read or write. World records need official witnesses who sign documents. Since Ait Noumar can’t read or write, Mathews had to film the village chief speaking the proper “certification words” in English.

The village has its own school and teacher for up to fifth grade. After that, children bus down a single-track dirt road to a town called Asni for school each week, boarding Monday and returning Saturday Their mothers ride along to do the week’s grocery shopping.

Ait Noumar said the village’s next goal is a doctor

Both of Ait Noumar’s grandparents are more than 100 years old — not unusual, he told Mathews. The people of Tacheddirt live from the land and the rain in a way Mathews said he’s still processing.

“It was a totally eye-opening experience to see another way of life,” he said. “It made me realize how lucky we are to have education, food and technology so readily available.”

Europe

In Austria, Mathews discovered another surprise: skiing cost far less than it does in the United States. Lift tickets ran about $60, compared to $250 to $300 for a walk-up ticket at many American resorts. Meals were roughly half the price, and nearly every business he encoun-

“B” and “C” began to feel hopeful. Then came the announcement that flight “A” passengers” were being taken off the recently boarded but now canceled flight. Flight “B” was moved to a different gate. I noticed a high school choral group with chaperones. Bless those chaperones traveling with a group of teens. We waited. The choral group began serenading the airline crowds with Harry Belafonte’s calypso version of “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)”. Thanks to them, the mood lightened and, several hundred passengers joined in song. Bless those teens. Finally we boarded the plane for Nashville. With the tight schedule in mind, we scrambled to the first available seats. Of course, we each got a middle seat. My daughter sat between two people who she, in her 20s, described as “really old.” Turns out they were married but didn’t want to sit next to each other (cue to ominous music OR is this the secret to a long marriage?). Prior

to takeoff, “ Marge” reached over my daughter, accidentally hitting her and yelling various instructions to “Norm.” This scenario repeated itself throughout the entire flight. “Marge” and “Norm” bellowed at each other while “ Marge” inadvertently battered my daughter while reaching over to “ Norm.” And so it continued. Almost 30 hours after leaving our hotel in London, we arrived at 1 a.m. to be embraced by the humid, welcoming air of Louisiana. True to the title of this tale, our travel plans for the near future will abandon flying and head out “on the road again.” Wisbar lives in Baton Rouge.

Advocate readers may submit stories of about 500 words to The Human Condition at features@theadvocate.com or The Advocate, Features, 10705 Rieger Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70809. There is no payment, and stories will be edited. Authors should include their city of residence.

Mathews enjoys a ski-in lunch in Austria, as part of his world tour, an attempt to ski all seven continents in under 300 days.

tered from ski schools to guesthouses tucked into the mountains was locally owned.

While skiing in St. Anton, Mathews hired a guide who kept mentioning one name: Hannes Schneider

Born in a nearby Austrian village in 1890, Schneider is widely considered the father of modern ski instruction. His Arlberg teaching method — progressing from snowplow to parallel turns is still used to teach beginners around the world.

After opposing Hitler, Schneider was arrested following Nazi Germany’s annexation of Austria He was later released through American intervention and eventually settled in New Hampshire, where he helped shape skiing in the U.S. by opening a ski school and training soldiers in the Army’s 10th Mountain Division.

Mathews and Easler planned to eat one evening at Schneider’s cafe, run by Schneider’s grandson, Christoph. The line was too long, so they crossed the street instead.

An older American couple sat down beside them. They started chatting and introduced themselves it was Christoph Schneider, Hannes Schneider’s grandson

Two nights later, Mathews had dinner in the Schneider family’s apartment above their hotel — Hannes Schneider’s former home.

That evening, Christoph Schneider sat down for an on-camera interview about his grandfather’s life and legacy

Preparing to leave again

Easler, along with a documentary crew, has built an eight-part series around Mathews’ journey Episodes covering Japan, the British Columbia heli-skiing, Morocco and Austria are all live on YouTube now

Easler says the pacing of the trip presents its own challenges.

“The 300 days really puts that added level of back-to-backness,” Easler said. “If somebody were to

do this over a three-year span it seems much more manageable.” Now Mathews is preparing to leave again right after his son starts LSU this August, and his daughter 14, starts her sophomore year at St. Joseph’s Academy

The fall will have multiple backand-forth trips to the Southern Hemisphere, including:

n Bariloche, Argentina, the third week of August.

n Thredbo, Australia, the second week of September

n Mount Hutt, New Zealand, the third week of September

n Then, toward the end of October, back to Ushuaia, Argentina, to board an expedition to Antarctica — the leg Mathews has called the most logistically complex of the whole attempt.

The ship, run by IceAxe Expeditions, carries about 190 guests and is chartered for skiers and hikers. Its size lets it reach shallower water near the islands. Mathews’ wife, Margot, is going, though she won’t ski She plans to snowshoe with penguins, kayak, paddleboard and take Zodiac tours to see whales. Mathews plans to take the polar plunge.

When Mathews is gone, running the three Backpacker locations falls to the people he trusts.

“I’ve got an amazing team a leadership team who’s been with me for a long time,” he said.

This summer at The Backpacker has been a difficult one, full of technology issues.

“It really put me in a point where I felt like, golly, maybe I shouldn’t keep going,” he said, “but I have to finish this thing.”

When asked what the trip has taught him, he doesn’t talk about skiing.

“I thought forever that numbers were my thing,” said Mathews, who majored in finance at LSU. “The biggest takeaway that I’ve had from going around the world and doing this is that I’m a relationship person. It has really given me a lot more confidence in myself to leverage my relationship skills for the rest of my life.”

He said that, growing up, students are “trained to sit at a desk and get things done. Social hour is a treat. Recess is a treat. And now I’ve realized — there’s a whole world out here of people that I can get to know and build relationships with.”

Before the year ends, Mathews hopes to ski in Antarctica, completing seven continents in less than 300 days.

But he suspects that long after the record attempt is over, one of the moments he’ll remember most won’t be standing on a summit. It will be climbing a mountain in Morocco, one step at a time, beside a guide who spent the day without food or water and never complained.

Email Jan Risher at jan.risher@ theadvocate.com.

STAFF PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

Officer Josh Hilliard, left, and K-9 Lux stand next to officer Richard Borneman and K-9 Pax as a patrol unit monitors the Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital on Monday in Baton Rouge.

PROVIDED PHOTOS

Michael Mathews climbs with guide Mohamed Ait Noumar in Tacheddirt, Morocco, at the base of the High Atlas Mountain Range.

Michael

HOLLYWOOD SOUTH

N.O. actorheadedfor Broadway BoundTheatre Fest

KC Simms to take lead in debutof ‘One Nightatthe Blackbird’

New Orleans actor KC Simms (“Hit Man,” “Mike”) is bound for Broadway,starring in anew play set in the 7th Ward —one of 12 new productions in this year’s 10th-anniversary Broadway Bound Theatre Festival in Manhattan.

Leslie Cardé

The festival is a launching pad for Off-Broadway and Broadway transfers. Oddly,Simms was abit of aJohnny-come-lately to the theater scene.

“You know theater wasn’talways my goal,” Simms explained. “I was working toward a film career,but as I’ve grown and met these really talented people in theater,I’m loving this opportunity to work on stage.

“Considering that there’snot much film opportunity right now in Louisiana, I’m more than happy to spread the word that we have talented actors in Louisiana by performing at the Broadway Bound Festival in Manhattan.” Simms’ entrée into the theater world began with The NOLA Project, an ensemble theater company in New Orleans which engages in the production of innovative and adventurous new plays. Simmshad worked with the group on aseries of theatrical snippets that are performed as part of the Rough Draft series around New Orleans.

It was through this group that he met writer and producer Thomas Mullen, who had Simms read anew play called “One Night at the Blackbird,” which he co-wrote along with fellow playwright Maria Messias Mendes. WhenMullen decided to enter it in the Broadway Bound Theatre Festival, he asked Simms if he’d be interested in reprising his role as Herman Godfrey

“Godfrey is the devoted manager of this hidden New Orleans 7th Ward speakeasy,” Simms said. “There’sasupernatural plot element within this nightclub because it’svisited by ghosts. And

“I’m proud to represent Louisiana,Baton Rouge and New Orleansona Broadway stage, because the last timeI wasinNew York Iwas watching aballdrop in Times Square, and nowI’m performingright around the corner.”

KC SIMMS,actor

not just any ghosts—the ghosts of Louis Armstrong, Allen Toussaint and Mahalia Jackson. ButGodfrey must continually bargainwith club owner Lucy (Lucifer herself) who’sburned outand wants to close the club. Godfrey may be making adeal with the devil but believes he must save the souls of the legendary music royalty which still gathers there.”

For Simms, who is currently in NewYork for rehearsals preceding the show’sAugust premiere, this is his first time in theBig Apple in over 18 years. As achild, his mother took him and his siblings to New York City to watch the ball drop on New Year’sEve.

At the time,the 9-year-old wanted to be an astronaut. As he grew up, he began to realizejust how long he’d be in collegetoattain thatgoal. In the meantime, he happened to see the remake

of “The KarateKid” in 2010 with Jaden Smith, and realized there might be room in the film industry for him, too.

With that notioncemented in his mind, he begantothink about drama classes in middle school.

“I was living in Baton Rouge as

akid, andIdidn’tinitially know what to do,but Iknew my school hadanexcellent drama department with alot of talented kids who were apartofit, so Isigned myself up,”Simms recalled. “My mom didn’tevenknowabout it, andinfact,I forged her signature on the papers thatIneeded to take those classes. When she found outwhatIwas trying to do,she supportedmeand even took me to the audition.”

Simms majored in theater at LSU New Orleans, formerly the University of New Orleans, and begantoauditionfor local films.

While he’s garnered roles that have shotinLouisiana, auditioning as of late hasslowed to a crawlwith the absence of studio films shooting in the state —a situationthatSimms, like most otheractorsinthis community, finds frustrating.

But he’s been prepared for the slump sincethe strikes, acting in microdramas (short, episodic formats for mobile viewing) and local theater productions, with rolesin“Guess Who’sComing To Dinner?” and“AStreetcar Named Desire.”

“Sometimes, for better or worse, youhavetomake aleap somewhere,just to keep honing your craft,” Simms said.

“I feel very lucky to be apart of sucha creative acting community in Louisiana, which has supportedmenomatter what andevenhelpedme find aplace in NewYorkwhere Ican couchsurf for the fewweeks I’m up there

“So,I’m proud to represent Louisiana,Baton Rouge and New Orleansona Broadway stage, because the last time Iwas in New York Iwas watching aball dropinTimesSquare, and now I’m performing right around the corner.

Of the five castmembers in “One Night at the Blackbird,” two arefromNew Orleans Simms andAria Franklin as Lucy (Lucifer).

The rest of the cast is from the New York area. The play runs from Aug. 12-16 at the AMT Theater in NewYorkCity

Contact Leslie Cardé at lesliecardejournalist@gmail. com.

Dear Harriette: My husbandand I are making the difficult decision to pull my daughter from private school and put her in public school. Our family simply can’tafford it anymore because they keep hiking the price fortuition. My daughter is crushed aboutit because she’s been going to this school for five years and all of her friends are here.

She doesn’twant to change schools because she lovesthe teachers, curriculum and other students. Ifeel horrible because this is by far the best school in the

area andthe qualityofher education will be lowered at the public school.

We’ve spent weeks going over our finances, trying to find another way to makeitwork, but thenumbers just don’t add up.

We’ve cut back on other expenses and even considered taking on additional work,but we still can’t justify stretchingourselves so thin just to keepher enrolled. She keeps asking if there’sanything she can do to stay,and hearing that breaks my heartbecause I know this isn’t something she can fix.

She’sworried about losing touch with her friends, having to start over with new classmates and feelinglike the new kid. Do you

thinkthere is another way,orare we doing what makes the most sense for our family financially?

No More Private School

Dear No More Private School: Before you leave, talk to theschool. Find out if they offer financial aid. Many families receive partial financial aid from privateschools. Based on your salary,expenses, number of children and other factors, theschool determines eligibility In some cases, if theschool likes astudent and their parents, it will makeanexception. Pitch them for aid before you give up.

Dear Harriette: Imet anice guy alittle over amonth ago. We’ve gone on several dates since we met andhave been enjoying each

other’scompany.Our interests seem toalign on so manythings. We’ve even taken instructional classes together.For along time, Iavoided dating, but this, oddly enough, feels special to me. Though we’ve been dating for several weeks, it only just crossed our minds to share our nationalities andcultural backgrounds. It turns out that our families are from two countries that have ahistorically volatile relationship—the kind of history that has troubled our families and even ancestors fordecades. This discovery has really tainted the momentum of our relationship. The rest of that evening wasquieter,and allthe days since have also been quieter

Is there away to moveforward, or is this blissful romance over? Of TwoWorlds

Dear Of TwoWorlds: This seems Shakespearean, doesn’tit? If you really like each other,talk about it openly Be honest about your family’s viewsand experiences. Discuss whether you think you can find a way to get your family members to welcome each other.Can you yourselves see past national differences to whoyou are as individuals? Is it worth it to find out?

Sendquestions to askharriette@ harriettecole.com or c/o AndrewsMcMeel Syndication 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

KC Simms, third from left, and Aria Franklin, second fromright, takepart in atable read for ‘One Nightatthe Blackbird’ in NewOrleans.

BETWEEN

WITH

THEPAGES

BRIAN FONTENOT

JR Dan an ny Heitm Danny Heitman

‘Space is nota barrier’

Former La. reporter launches sci-fi horror novelwithUK publisher

BY MISSY WILKINSON Staff writer

AMetairienative who grew upinBaton Rouge, Brian Fontenot Jr.studied English at LSU before working as areporter forthe Tri-Parish Times, the Daily Comet andthe Houma Courier

After the daily grind of parish council meetings, fires, murdersand new business openings, Fontenot pivotedtotechnical writing. He self-published two epic fantasy novelsalong the way For his new sci-fi horror novel, “Seraphim Descent,” Fontenot secured atraditional publication deal from Matthew James Publishing, the U.K.’slongest-running indie publisher

The story follows James Carter,aveteran, father and recoveringalcoholic who’s forced by an authoritarian government aboard awarship to investigate agreen star. Joining him is amotley crew comprisedof mystics, soldiers, artificial intelligences, a vampire engineer and apsychic.

The book, which Fontenot describes as a combination of “Event Horizon”and “Solomon Kane,” will be released Sept. 3.

This interviewwas edited for length and clarity When and how did you startworking on “Seraphim Descent”?

Ever sinceIwas asmall kid,myfather and Ialways watched crazy sci-fi movies, all the B-movieschlock —everything from “Hell comes to Frog Town”and “Predator” to the old “Runaway” movie withTom Selleck and “Logan’sRun.” He would cover my eyes when the bad scenes came on Leading into COVID, Iwas work-fromhome for two years (as atechnical writer and editor) with Blue Cross BlueShield, and Ihad just lost my father to cancer.I wasn’t writing, and Iwas ready to give up.But I told my father before he passed that Iwould write another book.

How wasthe writing process?

It took on alife of its own after arough start of doing maybe acouple hundred words amonth. Iwanted to writea sci-fi

book, and Ilove horror.Iwanted to mash all my influences andloves together intothis compelling sci-fi epic.

I’d write ascene Iwas excited about,and

Islowly started stitching them together and sequencing them. It’sabout writing these images Ihad in my mind and filling in all the in-between stuff. It took acouple years, maybe late 2020 into early 2022.

What wasthe publicationprocess like?

While Iwas writing it, Iwas doing freelance editing for other writers. One was areporter buddy,Chris Scarnati. He kept encouraging me to try thesmall publisher route. Istarted going to different publishers who Ithought fitthe genre. It didn’ttake long, surprisingly,for me to getaresponsefrom Matthew James Publishing. The editor bit on it real quick.

How did you fitghosts and demons into this universe?

There’sa little bit of Graham Hancock influence. Hancock wrote about his experience with psychedelics. He relates DMT to shamanistic rituals and aliens. Iwas interested in the DMT thing.

Iwanted that to be atechnical backdrop, where that is accepted science and achance to plunderthat realm for moreinformation and power.The old explanation is dabbling in that realm corrupts and influences reality, andthat’swhere you get demons and ghosts and stuff.

Can you explain the physics of the warship’smovement?

Iwanted my own scary,faster-than-light travel system, and it’sloosely based on

PROVIDED PHOTOS ian Fontenot otographed the Orion ebula in 2021 at a aton RougeAstronomy ociety dark site on the chafalayaBasinlevee Maringouin, east of hiskey Bay.

Brian Fontenot Jr.has self-published twoepic fantasy novels.

fringe physics. Icombined the Dynamical Casimir Effect with theidea of constructive wave interference to allow aspacecraftto accelerate to many times the speed of light with afraction of the required energy

The speed of light is really fast, but it’s actually really slow for travel between planets. People don’tconsider just how vast the universe is.

What do you hope readers getfrom this book?

Ireally want people, even though it is a horror book, to rediscover thewonder of space. Space is not abarrier.Itisamedium. Iwant people to imagine what’sout there.

Book journal reveals readinglife

My Grandfather Heitman died in 1930, and he wasgone many years before Iwas born. Even so, he continued to live in family stories, including memories of the books he read. Among his favorites, we weretold, were Robert Louis Stevenson’s“Travels with aDonkey in the Cévennes” and “Quo Vadis,” asweeping historical novel about ancient Rome written by Polish author Henryk Sienkiewicz.

My grandfather’slifeasafarmer kept him mostly in Louisiana throughout his life, but he was,in the family lore, something of an armchair traveler.That Stevenson travelogue and Sienkiewicz’s saga of empire offer awindow into my grandfather’spreoccupations. We are what we read, it seems, or at least we might be, which is whyI madeaNew Year’sresolution back in January to record every book Iread this year as away to learn about myself

Somereaders find various apps handy fortracking the books that come and go through their lives, but Idecided to use abeautifully monogrammed journal my daughter gave me for Christmas. Ifelt sheepish about making such an easy New Year’sresolution. What could be simpler than writing downevery book Iread? Idecided not to record books I don’t finish, but beyond that, my plan looked pretty straightforward.

I’mrealizing, though, that my reading lifeismore complicated that Ihad thought. As ajournalist, Idoalot of assigned reading, tackling books Imight not otherwise undertake. Do they warrant another category in my reading journal, alist apart from what I read just forfun?

As part of avolunteer gig at a local school, my wife reads books to small children, and Isometimes help her pick out titles by scouting out afew kids’ books, too. I’ve really enjoyed Margaret Renkl’s“The Weedy Garden” this year,aswellasAnca Sandu Budisan’sbeautifully illustrated “The HomeWeDreamed.”

Is it cheating to add those to my list of books Iread this year,even if I finished them in just afew minutes?

I’ve also been thinking about my five-volumeset of Virginia Woolf’s diaries, which has been part of my reading routine for years now.I keep at least one volumeofthe diaries on my nightstand, dipping in at random before Igotosleep. Idoubt I’ll ever know when or if I’ve finished reading them,but they’re old friends by now and seem to deserve amention. What I’mcoming to understand is that my reading journal isn’t meanttoshow others how much I’ve read. Like atourist savoring snapshots, Ijust want to look back at the end of the year and see where my lifeinbooks has taken me. I’ll continue to experiment with what works best forme, and at the end of the year,I’ll tell you how I’ve done.

Email Danny Heitman at danny@ dannyheitman.com

By The Associated Press

Today is Sunday,July 26, the207thday of 2026. Thereare 158 days left in theyear

TodayinHistory:

On July 26, 1990, PresidentGeorge H.W.Bush signed the Americans withDisabilitiesAct, prohibiting discrimination based on mentalorphysical disabilities.

Also on this date:

In 1775, the Continental Congress establishedan independent postal systemand appointedBenjamin Franklinits Postmaster General.

In 1847, the western African country of Liberia, founded by freed American slaves, declared its independence.

In 1863, Sam Houston, former president of the Republic of Texas, died in Huntsville at age 70.

In 1945,Winston Churchill resignedasBritain’s prime minister after his Conservatives were soundly defeated by the Labour Party.ClementAttlee succeeded him.

In 1947, President Harry S. Trumansigned the National Security Act, whichreorganized America’sarmed forces as the National Military Establishment and created the CentralIntelligence Agency In 1948, President Trumanissued Executive Order 9981,which desegregatedthe U.S. military. In 1953, Fidel Castro began his revolt against Fulgencio Batista with an unsuccessful attack on an army barracks in eastern Cuba. (Castroousted Batistain1959.)

In 1971,Apollo 15 was launchedfromCape Kennedy on America’sfourth successful mannedmission to the moon.

In 2002, the Republican-ledHousevoted to createthe Homeland SecurityDepartment in the biggest government reorganizationindecades.

In 2016, Hillary Clinton became the first woman to be nominated for president by amajor political partyatthe DemocraticNational Conventionin Philadelphia.

In 2018, the last six members of aJapanese doomsday cult whoremained on death row were executed for aseries of crimes in the 1990s,includingagas attack on Tokyo subways thatkilled 13 people. Previously, sevenother cultmembers were executed on July6 of thatyear

In 2020, aprocession with the casketofthe late U.S. Rep. John Lewis crossedthe Edmund Pettus Bridge in Alabama, whereLewis and othercivil rights marchers were beaten55yearsearlier

Today’sBirthdays: Former AustralianPrimeMinister

John Howard is 87. Football Hall of Famer BobLilly is 87. Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall ofFamer Darlene Love is 85. The Rolling Stones’Mick Jaggeris83. Actor HelenMirrenis81. Rock musician Roger Taylor (Queen) is 77.Olympic gold medal figure skater Dorothy Hamill is 70. Actor KevinSpaceyis67. Actor Sandra Bullock is 62. Actor JeremyPiven is 61. Actor Jason Statham is 59. Actor Olivia Williams is 58. Actor Kate Beckinsale is 53.Former New Zealand Prime MinisterJacinda Ardern is 46. Actor Juliet Rylance is 47. ActorMonica Raymund is 40. Actor FranciaRaisais 38. Actor-singer Taylor Momsen is 33. Actor Elizabeth Gilliesis33.

Brother-in-law mindshis business,for once

Dear Miss Manners: My husband and I went on atrip to visit my mother-in-law. While we were there, she suggested that my husband’sbrother and wife alsojoin us for dinner.Werarely seethem and my husband thought it was agreat idea.

Alittle background: In thelast six months, Iwas very ill and lost a substantial amount of weight. Iamnow in good healthand because of it at ahealthier weight than before. The loss of weight is definitely noticeable.

My brother-in-law has always been arrogant. Ireally don’tlike how he treats my husband. My husband, in turn, is good-natured and lets things roll off his back. He is theone who keeps therelationship alive.

When my brother-in-law and his wife arrived, the typical “I-know-everything”attitude was prevalent.IfIhad tried to converse with them, it was basically ignored.

On top of that, Ithought it was strange, they never once mentioned anything about my huge weight loss

Iactually came away feeling hurt and angry Ispoke to my husband later and said Ithought they were rude. Itold him that the next time we see his mother, Iwould appreciate if we didn’tsee his brother and sister-in-law.Infact, Ireally don’twant much to do with them

Am Ibeing too harsh?Myhusband says that it’sjust theway they are and we have to accept it because they are family

GentleReader: Youare complaining that an arrogant know-it-all did not announce his observationsabout your body? Areyou mad?

Andifyou happen to gain back a pound or two, will you be insulted if he doesn’tdeclare that he noticed that, too?

All right,you want encouragement. Andpraise for your effort. But not at theexpense of allowing everyone to size you up, so to speak.That’swhat your trainer,your dietitian and, chiefly, that nice husband is for.

Miss Manners took to him immediately; that attitude of not starting atrivial and pointless fight is so rare. Please do not cause him trouble with his family

Dear Miss Manners Could you please

suggest away of saying something is stylishly sophisticated or upscale other than “classy”? While widely used, it seemstomeanything but.

Gentle Reader: “Classy” is, Miss Manners agrees, somewhat vulgar (a word badly in need of being revived). We do not have hereditary classes here; we have economic classes. And anyone whothinks those in the top brackets are modeling good behavior is not paying attention. For that matter,the sameistrue in societies with hereditary class systems. Youhave only to read the headlines about foreign royalty to squelch the fantastic notion that their behavior is exemplary,oreven acceptable. In her vast experience monitoring civility,Miss Manners has observed that high standards, although perhaps rare everywhere, are just as likely,or perhaps even morelikely,tobefound among the lower as among the upper brackets. Are the terms“tasteful” and “civilized” too tepid forwhat you wantto convey?

Email Miss Manners at dearmissmanners@gmail.com.

Dear Heloise: King Alfredthe Great would never have said “you” to oneperson, sincethis was the plural form, and “thou” was the singularform. (This can be compared tothe German“du” and the Spanish“tu.”)After theFrench-speaking Normans in 1066 forced atwo-tier society on England, theydemanded that theyshould be addressed withthe plural pronoun, while theyaddressed the conquered natives withthe singular (which explains why the plural “are”isstill used with “you”).Examples of changes could be multiplied. While the invaders and natives eventually melded, the two-tier system remained, with French vocabulary (and laterLatin, the language of education) being dominant in the speech of the upper class. To gain access to membership in the upper class, thoseinthe lower class had to learn thespeech of their social betters. Thus wasborn theidea of “correct English.”

When schools were established, it was naturally this socially correct variety of the language that wasinculcated and even hallowed. (I once heard ateacher correct astudent by saying, “God doesn’twant you to talk this way.”)

Unfortunately, generations of studentshave been brainwashed with the misconception that there’sanabsolute “pure”formofthe language. An old quip says that the only thing constant in language is change, and alanguage doesn’t existapart from itsspeakers. It isn’t languages that change —people change their language. Social norms exist in language as they do in other areas of life, and norms change differently among groups thatare separated in any way— socially,geographically or temporally Afterall, 2,500 years ago, English and German wereone language. —Rudy T.,in Tucson,Arizona

Coffee filter trick

Dear Heloise: After over 60 years of being frustrated when struggling to separateabowl-shaped coffee filter from thestack that it comes packaged in, I’ve

discovered atrick! If Ihold aportion of the stack in my hand and blow down on the exposed edges, the outside filter will separate from the stack and can easily be peeled off. —ChadronO., via email Chemicalsinfood

Dear Heloise: Iread the comments from Jan, in Dayton, Ohio, titled “Chemicals in Our Food.” It wasofinterest because Iwas drinking acup of takeout coffee that had ablack plastic lid. How can we determine if the black plastic itemsthat we use contain harmfulchemicals? Paul, in California Paul, since food chemicals are usually odorless, tasteless and not seen by sight alone, you’ll need to read labels and government reports on the chemicals that are used in plastics. In other words, it’scomplicated and hard to know.Most chemicals in plastic becomedangerous when the plastic is heated. Or if the food is stored in plastic foralong period of time, there could possibly be “leaching” of chemicals into the food. —Heloise Sendahinttoheloise@heloise.com.

Hints from Heloise Judith Martin MISS MANNERS

Scholars question ChristopherNolan’s ‘The

BY HILLEL ITALIE

AP national writer

NEW YORK For Greek translator

Emily Wilson, the releaseofdirector Christopher Nolan’s“The Odyssey” has been gratifying in various ways.

Heracclaimed2017edition of Homer’sepic has reached thetop 5onAmazon.com, leading awave of similar books boosted by the movie.

Nolan has even cited hertranslation, notably the opening line “Tell me about acomplicated man,” as inspiration.

But the film itself, whichopened last weekendand has received raves from many critics, left her unsatisfied.

“I want to celebrate thefact that so many more people are aware of ‘TheOdyssey’ and were brought back to the poem,” she told The Associated Press. “But atthe same time, Ihad the sense that Christopher Nolan was trying to pack everything in while missing themes that were essential to the poem.”

One of the year’smost anticipated releases, “The Odyssey” stars Matt Damon as the returning warriorOdysseus, Anne Hathaway as his wife, Penelope, and TomHolland as their son, Telemachus. Reviewers have praised the actingand the narrative drive, the grandscaleofamovie shot entirely on IMAX film and how it weds the sensibilities of ancient Greece and the modern world, at leastas Nolan perceives it.

The divide between scholars and critics seems in partamatter of whether the balance should tilt toward NolanorHomer. Wilson and fellow translator Daniel Mendelsohn both expressed admiration for Nolan’scinematicflair and ambition, whatMendelsohn calls his “great visual panache.” Both speculated that his desire to make a“Christopher Nolan” movie led to unfortunate decisions. Mendelsohn is an author,critic and translator andhis assessment appeared lastweekinThe New York Review of Books, where he

is an editor-at-large Mendelsohn had previously defendedNolan’scontroversialdecision to cast aBlack actor,Lupita Nyong’o, as Helen of Troy,calling it aworthy way to “provoke, challenge and discomfithow we think about beauty and identity.” But he faultedthe director for givingus

an Odysseus with “no cleverness, no humor, no wily charm.”

One of the Western canon’s formative tricksters has been transformed, he contended, into thekind of haunted protagonist featured in such previous Nolan movies as “Oppenheimer” and “Memento.”

“This tormented,guilt-ridden Odysseus, strippedofhumorand wit,seductiveness andcleverness, is asibling of Memento’s anguished amnesiac, of Batman of Oppenheimer, men tormented by pasts they wrestle with in different ways,” wrote Mendelsohn, whose “Odyssey” translation came outin2025. “Nolanhas merely remade Homer’shero in his ownimage.”

Wilson, aprofessor of classical studiesatthe University of Pennsylvania, saidshe didn’twant to come across as a“snobby,” nitpicking expert at odds with any deviation from the original text.

But she questioned arange of omissions and other choices, from the absenceonscreen of the GodsZeus and Poseidon (Athena is played by Zendaya)tothe “incoherent” messaging that condemns both war andphysical cowardice. She found Penelope’srole so thinned out that it endangered “any possibility of believing in this marriage.” Wilson also that thought parts of the movie, notably thescenes with Odysseus’ dog, Argos, “catered towards modern sentimentality.”

“Everybody’sasucker for a dog,”she said.

Aspokesperson forNolan did notimmediately respond to a request forcomment. Wilsondeclinedtooffer agrade or ranking forthe movie, but said she would recommenditfor others, as long as theysee it in atheater

“It was fun to be there with my kids. Ididn’tfeel it waspulling teethtoengage with it,” shesaid. “If you can see it on abig screen youshould absolutely go.”

MattDamon, from left, director Christopher Nolan and Anne Hathaway attend the premiereof‘The Odyssey’ at AMC Lincoln Square on July 14 in Newyork.

MattDamon as Odysseus and Zendaya as Athena

PROVIDED PHOTOS

Matt Damonstars as the warrior Odysseus in ‘The Odyssey.’

Lauren Gibbsisraising construction company’sreputation 3E

In

BY RICH COLLINS Staff writer

For alot of Louisianabusiness own-

ers, the events of 2020 and 2021 —the COVID-19 pandemicand successive hurricanes Laura, Delta and Ida were disastrous.

For Corey Rosales, they were opportunities.

IDEAS INNOVATION &

Over the course of just afew years, Rosales grew his one-manindustrial safety training firm, American Safety,into adiversified company with nearly 500 workers in multiple states and annual revenues in the tens of millions

Today,the Belle Chasse company transports industrial workers to and from job sites, cleans equipment at refineries, cleans up after industrial accidents and weather disasters, transports water for industrial customers, rebuilds homes and businesses, and manages its own real estateportfolio

TAKING WHEELTHE

and other events.

American Safety also provides transportationservicestothe New Orleans Saints andPelicans, LSU Athletics andTulaneUniversity,while also servingconventions, weddings

It’salot for the homegrown entrepreneur,who founded thecompany at age23— now30—and it keeps him busy. During arecent, hourlong

Influx of privateequityfirms drawn to state’sbooming industrial sector

BY STEPHANIE RIEGEL Staff writer

Earlier this month, BatonRougebasedprivate equity

firm Bernhard Capital Partners announced it will sell the parent company of Epic Piping, the Livingston Parish industrial pipe fabricator that was one of the original companiesinBernhard’s portfolio when it was foundedin 2013. Among the factors thatmade Epic an attractive target for acquisition, according to Ante Kusurin, apartner with the Houston private equity firm buying thecompany, is the booming industrial sector that Epic services.

“Wewereattracted to the longterm growth in infrastructure, energy,power,data centers, LNG and advanced manufacturing,” said Kusurin, whose firm, One Equity Partners, has approximately $16 billion in assets undermanagement,roughly three times more than Bernhard. The sale of Epic was thelatestof several in southLouisiana in the past month alone. Expertssay it won’t be thelast. Amid asurge of industrialconstructionactivity concentrated alongthe Gulf Coast, local companies that servicethe energy,petrochemicaland industrial sectors are busier thanever —and attracting theattention of potential buyersin

theprocess.

“This is atrend becauseofthis boom,” said DavidGallo, whose family-owned mechanical constructioncompany in New Orleans was acquired by aDallas private equity firm in 2025. “There is huge money gettingintoit.” Gallo, whose companyhad revenues around $500 million at the time of its sale last year,said he knows of several locally owned businesses in talkswith out-of-state buyers.

“Before we sold, we were getting contacted regularly,” he said. “A lot of people Italktoare getting contacted regularly.”

interviewatcompanyheadquarters, Rosales’ cellphone litupand buzzed every minute or two with an endless stream of text messages.

“I never know what I’m going to wake up and do because we have so manydifferent areas,” Rosales said. “Butthat’sone of the things Ilove mostabout my job.”

American Safety took the No. 2spot on the 2025 LSU 100 list, which recognizes the fastest-growing businesses owned or led by LSU alums. Rosales attributes thegrowth to fiscal discipline —plowing earlyprofitsback intothe company— andfortuitous timing.

Evan Gomes,a financial adviser who works withRosales,also credits the company’ssuccess to Rosales’ hustle.

“Corey is decisive, and not just in business,” he said. “Ifyou were at arestaurantand the table waswobbling, he’d be the first guy to grab a sugarpacket andshove it underthe table leg. Whenhesees aproblemor an opportunity, he’sthe firsttoaddress it.” American Safety, transportation provider for Saints and LSU, forSaintsand LS is much more than a bus company abus

ä See BUSES, page 2E

STAFF PHOTOS BY DAVID GRUNFELD American

What youshouldand shouldn’tdowhenyourteenstartsearning money

Istarted working duringthe summer Iturned 14.

After my grandmother Big Mama tookmetoher creditunion to open an account, she announced that Iwould start being responsible for buying my school supplies and clothes for the fall. At the time, Iwas furious;Ididn’tdare push back. Ithought my grandmother was being too tough. This wasmy money.Why was she tellingme what Ihad to do withit?

Looking backnow,after raising three kids of my own, Irealize my summer earnings gave her much-needed financial relief as she raised my four siblings and me. Big Mama was teachingme thatearning money came with immediate responsibility.Itwasn’t play money In my experience, too many parents allow teens to treat all their summer income likeaslush fund with no financial lessons. The teens become spendthrifts. Parents often assume that becausetheir children aredigitally savvy and have easily adapted to using platforms like Cash App or Venmo, they understand how to manage their money But the data tells acompletely different story.

According to the 2026 State of Teen Financial Literacy report by Everfi,which surveyed over 160,000 high school students, there is amassive gap between what teenswant to do andwhat they actually know how to do. Nearly 60% of high school juniors and seniors report they feel only “somewhat,” “a little” or

Michelle Singletary

“not at all” prepared to set up and follow abasic budget. More than 57% of these same teens admit they are underprepared to manage basic checking andsavings account balances without overdrawing.

Even though they can’t function without their mobile devices, 20% admit theydon’tknowhow to recognize or avoid onlinescams Although older adults losemore moneyper incident, younger adultsare scammed more frequently,according to the Federal Trade Commission.

In my interactions with other parents, I’m often askedhow muchtheyshould interveneonce their children start earningtheir own money.Somethinktaking a hands-off approach teaches independence Idisagree. Youshouldconsider yourself their business partner or chief financialofficer.Don’t micromanage. Youdon’t need to approve every purchase, such as their back-to-school clothes, but if they want to spend agreat deal of money on adesigneroutfitthat would limit their ability to buy other things theyneed,point that out. Youshould be involved in the financialdecisions they make. And your kids need andwant your input. ASchwab Teen Invest-

ing Surveyfound that despite the constant pull of social media influencers, 56% of teenagerspointto their parents as their mosttrusted sourcefor investing andmoney advice. An overwhelmingmajority saytheytrust theirparents “a lot” when it comes to learning how to save andbe financially responsible. Youhavethe influence. Use it. Here are some tips to helpyou raise money-smart kids.

n All your money is no longer theirmoney

Once they have ajob,let them experiencethe real-worldfriction of spending their own cash.

If they want to go to the movies or buy anew videogame, it needs to come outoftheir summerearnings, notyourwallet.

n Your bills arenot theirresponsibility. If your household is struggling to make ends meet, any extra income can makeahuge difference.

However,ifyou don’tabsolutely need theirmoney to keep the lights on,don’t burdenthemwith adult financialobligations. Instead, transition them into paying for some of theirown expenses. Theycould start helpingwith their cellphone bill, gasiftheyare driving, or streaming subscriptions.

Your child is still adependent. Grown folks paytheir own bills

n Give them an incentive to save

If youwanttoblowyourteen’s mind with thepower of compound interest, help them set up acustodialRoth IRA.

ARoth is aretirement account fundedwith after-tax dollars. A custodial account is opened and managed by an adultonbehalf of

STAFF PHOTO By DAVIDGRUNFELD

American Safety,the Belle Chasse-transportationcompany founded by CoreyRosales that has industrial and other clients, took the No. 2spot on the 2025 LSU100 list, which recognizes the fastest-growingbusinesses owned or led by LSUalums.

BUSES

Continued from page1E

Findingproblemstosolve

Rosales grew up in the New Orleans suburbs of Terrytown and Belle Chasse. He moved to Baton Rouge to attend LSU, where he graduated in 2018 with adegree in petroleum engineering.

The nextyear,helaunched American Safety as an environmental training companytoteach clients about proper welding practices, respiratory protection andother skills that help industrial companies keep workers safe and comply with regulations. But he didn’tstick with teaching for very long.

Partly because of his environmental safety certification, Rosales landed ajob helping clean up after an oil spill at aretention pond at a Plaquemines Parish plant. Initially, he was broughtinasaconsultant but, one thing led to another, andhe ended up putting together ateam to do the job. Just like that, he’d launched his new company’s“environmental services” division. Months later,when COVID hit, Rosalesexpanded his new business in atimely way,tapping his existing sources for protective equipment to become asupplier of masks, gloves and other personal protective equipment for municipalities and commercial customers nationwide while also providing cleaning and decontaminating servicesfor commercial buildings in multiple states.

When hurricanesLaura, Delta, Zeta and Ida hit south Louisiana hard in 2020 and 2021, further throwing the state’seconomy offkilter,Rosales addeddisasterrecovery to his company’srepertoire, building teams to clean up debris across the Gulf South.

The work required transporting hundreds of workers to disaster sites, so Rosales started chartering buses until he realizedhe could save on rental fees by buying three used motor coaches of hisown.Using this small fleet, he pursued a new and growing line of work: moving industrial workerstoand from jobsites across Louisiana’sexpanding industrial corridor “New plantsand refineries are often being built in remote areas,so you don’thave space to park thou-

sands of vehicles,” he said.“You have one road in and one road out, so if we canput 56 people on abus, that’s56 less cars.”

Notjust‘grabbing ashovel’

Twoyears ago, Rosales began expanding the environmental mitigationsideofhis business, opening his first of 10 offices outside of Louisiana, including multiple locations in Florida. Those teams are called to clean up after oil spills, plant explosions and otheraccidents The company boughtAtlantic Response, aNew Jersey-based venturethat works in the New Jersey and New York harbors, in January Closer to home, American Safety hashelped clean up high-profile accidents likethe 2025 explosion at Smitty’sSupply in Tangipahoa Parish and February’soil spill at the Louisiana OffshoreOil Portfacility nearCocodrie.

“Our people are trained to deal with hazardous and nonhazardous responses, so we’ll go in rather than someoneoff the street grabbing a shovel and not knowing what products there and evenifthey’re flammable or not,” Rosales said.

Rosales also gothis generalcontractor license in 2022,sohe’sable to offer clients turnkey services afterdisasters.

Afteraheavy rain last year, for instance,his disasterresponse team removedall debris and flooded building materials from aJefferson Parish medicalofficeand was ableto rebuilditaswell.

“Wedid floodcuts, we broughtdehumidifiers, airblowers and other stabilization equipment,” he said. “Wetreated it, andthenwewent back and finished it by puttingthe sheet rockback and making it look pretty again.”

Saints,LSU dealsraise profile

Today,about 80% of American Safety’snearly500 full-time employees are in Louisiana,and two local acquisitions in the last two years boosted thatnumber

The company bought the halfcentury-old company New Orleans Tours in January 2025, just before New Orleans hosted Super Bowl LIX. It used the additional 18 buses acquired through the deal for its work as a“preferred vendor” for theNFL’s biggestgame, transporting more than 10,000 people, including teams and their families. Ayear later, American Safetyac-

aminor. The beauty of aRoth is that the money grows entirely taxfree, andwhen your teen retires, they can withdraw it tax-free.

To open aRoth, you must have earnedincome. Your teen can contribute up to the annual IRS limit, whichfor 2026 is $7,500.

If youcan afford it, you might say you’ll match whatever they put in the Roth, or some percentageoftheir contribution, much like employers do.

n Do not allow themtoget acredit card

Many parents argue that kids need to start building acredit score early.But you do not need years of debt accumulation to getascore. According to FICO, to generate acredit score, aconsumer only needs one account open for at least six months, with at leastone update reported to the credit bureaus during that period.

Whenyour child is closer to graduating from college or moving outontheir own, they can easily establish acredit history by setting up asecured credit card.

With asecured card, they deposit their own cash, usually $250, with abank, which then becomes their credit limit. They spend atiny amount, pay the bill in full every month, and the card issuer reports those on-time payments to the credit bureaus.

For now, their summer job should be about learning to live within their means and saving for their future, not about practice being aborrower

n Mandate college savings

If youhaven’tbeen able to fully fund a529 plan or save enough for the staggering cost of higher

INDUSTRIAL

Continued from page1E

Rising demand

To be sure, there are differences amongthree Louisiana dealsannounced this summer Epic andits parent company, United WELD Holdings, specialize in manufacturing piping systems for large-scaleprojects like refineries,chemical plants and liquefied natural gas export terminals.

Thibodeaux-based Submar, which was also acquired in July by aHouston private equity firm, Sallyport, is aspecialist in remediating pipeline erosion and protectingpipelines from environmental challenges. Its clients include companies in the oil and gas and wind industries.

education, the money your child is earning should become part of the college fund.

Once my children started working, they had to save most of their earnings to cover their personal expenses while in college. We covered tuition, room and board. Aspring break trip was on them Late-night pizza runs were paid for with their savings.

Because their money was managed well, our kids had enough from their summer earnings alone to cover their basic day-today living expenses for both the fall and spring semesters. When they all got jobs during the school year,that extra earned income allowed them to build up asavings buffer that paid for the fun things they wanted, such as spring break trips. One thing. This mandate is useless without enforcement, which requires transparency.Ask them to share their bank account balances. If you see too many shopping sprees, talk about it and offer guidance. Share stories about how you mayhave mismanaged your funds. View this oversight as shepherding. Even when your children start earning their ownmoney, keep parenting. If you’re bad at managing your ownmoney,steer your kid to abetter resource, such as anonprofitcredit counseling agency.Ifyou can’thelp them,a budget counselor can show them how EmailMichelle Singletary at michelle.singletary@washpost. com.

niesthatare landing newdeals as subcontractors for data center developers and their contractors.

“These data center developers are leaning on core thecompetenciesofenergyservicesthat have been doing this foralong time and are good at it,” he said. Sellingand buying

quiredDixielandTours, provider of luxury motorcoaches and charter buses in Baton Rouge Today,the company has amassed a fleet of 400 buses and other vehicles thatitusesfor many purposes. And Rosales said he buys up to 90 news motor coaches annually with prices ranging from $500,000 to $800,000 each.

Though thecompany’sfleet primarily servesindustrialcustomers, the hospitality side of the business is raisingits profile with consumers. Agood portion of that increased visibility comes from a sponsorship agreementRosales signedwiththe Saintsand Pelicans last year and similar partnerships withLSU and Tulane announced this month.

American Safety pays asponsorship fee to promote its association withthe Saints, Pelicans and LSU, and the teams and school agree to usethe companytohelptransport teams, bring players to special appearances, shuttle fans around training camp and more Notplaying it safe

Though Rosales named his company American Safety,he’sdone anything butplay it safe this decade, investing millions into equipment, personnel and real estate to grow ahalf-dozen lines of business Rosales andhis partner, Paul Hull, don’thaveany outside investors andhave financed their growing fleet and property portfolio with bank debt

The company’srealestate holdings are concentrated on the West Bank. In addition to thetwo office buildings on Belle Chasse Highway,itowns two other warehouses in Belle Chasse plus abus barn in Harvey Looking ahead, Rosales sees growth potential in hospitality transportation and environmental cleanup, in particular

In an era when flashy tech startups steal all the attention, Gomes, the financial adviser,said he’sbeen amazed watching his friend build averyanalog enterprise based on identifying and solving problems.

“There aren’tthat many local companies doingthe things he’s doing,” he said. “It’sanold-school business performedwith care and attention to detail.”

Email Rich Collinsatrich. collins@theadvocate.com.

Rotorcraft Leasing Co., aBroussard company that wasacquired in late June by yetanother Houston private equity firm, Voyager Interests, providesoffshore aviation services to oiland gascompanies in theGulfCoastand California markets.

But while each of the companies services adifferentniche,they’re alldoing projects forenergyor large industrial clients in astate thatishometoLNG plants, marine defense contractors, aplanned Hyundai steel mill and new artificial intelligence data centers, including one of the largest in the world.

“Risingnatural gas demand drivenbyLNG exports andgasfiredpower generation build-out” was among the reasons Sallyport decided to buy Submar,according to the firm’smanagingpartner Kyle Bethancourt.

“Webelieve the business is well positionedfor long-term growth,” he said.

Leveraging ‘corecompetencies’

While energy activity is fueling some of theacquisition activity, GayLeBreton, managing director at New Orleansinvestment bankingfirmChaffe and Associates, which tracks mergers and acquisitions, said new industrial constructionisthe bigger driver

“Everyone is interested in the industrial stuff,” she said. “You have new construction andconstructionrelatedjobs. That’ssignificant.”

The buildout of AI data centers across the U.S.,projectedtoexceed $750 billioninconstruction coststhis year,and theneed for ever more sources of electricity to power them,makes companies thathave traditionally serviced the energy and petrochemical sectors particularly attractive, according to Michael LeBourgeois, managing partner with Black Bay Partners, a New Orleans private equity firm.

“Ifyou areacompanythatprovides services to the energy industry,which is mission critical,and your execution capabilitiesare very high —because the energy sector demands thatthings get done right and safely —that translatesintoother sectors,”LeBourgeois said. “So, you’re seeing data center developers leaning on companies that have thesecapabilities.” LeBourgeois said he knows of several energy services compa-

While it’s aboonfor the Louisiana economy to have homegrown companies expand and create new jobs, which then attracts the interest of buyers, losing locally owned businessesand theircorporate headquarters to private equity firms from out of state has adownside. Private equity firmsare ultimately responsible for deliveringa return to theirinvestors Thatnorth stardrivesdecisions that can mean workforce cuts, a loss of localdecision-making at the executive level and less corporate support for the communities where companies were once headquartered.

In 2025, four longtimeLouisiana companies sold to private equity firmsfrom out of state, including Gallo,Canal Barge, Elmer Chocolate and CSRS. For now,all four companies have retained existing leadership teams andmaintainedtheir local offices.

Thebuyers of Epic, Submar and RotorcraftLeasing say they,too, want to keep their new portfolio companies doing what they do best and have no plans to break them apart or sell them off.

“Our intention is to partner with the existing management team, which is akey reason we invested in thebusiness,” Kusurin said of One Equity’s planned acquisition of Epic and its parent company.“Management is reinvesting alongside us, and we have no plans to relocate the company’sBaton Rouge headquarters.”

Le Breton points out that Louisiana companies have also been on the buying end of recent transactions. DeltaUtilities, anotherBernhard-backed company,purchasedCenterPoint Energyand Entergy’s natural gas division last year,expanding its footprint from Baton Rouge to Mississippi.

Epic Piping also acquired several companies over the years it was owned by Bernhard.

“Epic was abuyer foralong time,” she said.

“Now,they’re a seller and that’snot abad thing.”

EmailStephanie Riegel at stephanie.riegel@theadvocate. com.

THE COLOR OF MONEy

TALKING BUSINESS

ASK THE EXPERTS

CEO landing bigger projects for family construction firm

BY GRACE MAYER Staff writer

Gibbs Construction, founded in 1976, was already a dominant general contractor in town before Lauren Gibbs took over the business from her father, Larry Gibbs, in 2019.

The Elmwood firm’s reputation and expertise grew as it racked up major projects, including significant renovations to the exterior of the Superdome following Hurricane Katrina and the $55 million Poydras Apartments, a 21-story highrise, in 2010. Later, the firm was a partner on the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport’s $1 billion north terminal, which opened in 2019.

Under the younger Gibbs’ leadership, the second generation leading the business the company has achieved new heights and landed bigger projects. Gibbs works alongside her husband, Matt Moore, who has been president of the firm since 2016.

Currently, Gibbs Construction is the general contractor on the $100 million Clearview City Center redevelopment and the $64 million Rivana Apartments, an affordable housing complex in the planned River District. The firm which typically does projects ranging from $1 million to $30 million, is on track to grow by about 5% this year and reach projected revenues of $100 million Gibbs spent almost 10 years climbing the ranks at Gibbs Construction, rising from an estimator to a vice president before buy-

ing the business from her father and becoming CEO. Prior to that, she launched her career at a construction firm in Nashville, where she worked for several years before coming home.

“It gave me an opportunity to be in an environment where I wasn’t the boss’s daughter,” Gibbs said.

“I gained a lot of confidence, a lot of knowledge, that was very portable to bring home.”

In this week’s Talking Business,

Gibbs discusses how the firm competes for work in a crowded construction industry, the local talent pipeline and projects the firm is tackling This interview has been edited for length and clarity

Commercial construction is one of the most competitive industries. How has Gibbs Construction managed to stay competitive?

There’s a business strategy about working in a blue ocean or a red ocean, and construction is very much a red ocean it’s filled with blood because there is so much competition. We compete by being very selective about the

jobs we take on, and we follow whatever building trends are happening in New Orleans.

When there was a ton of multifamily development between 2015 and 2019, we built around 25% of the new units in the region. We do a ton of historic renovations, schools and medical offices, but we don’t do a lot of industrial work, like constructing plants. There have been times in our past where we made decisions because we were hungry meaning we felt like we needed the work. Usually when you make a decision that way, those jobs don’t go as well because you didn’t match-make.

What’s a project that you’re excited about that Gibbs is currently working on?

I’m excited about the Rivana Apartments, the affordable, multifamily housing project that should start construction in September This project, a part of the larger River District plans and the (Ernest N. Morial) Convention Center’s efforts, is a really important one for the city It will

provide affordable housing to the hospitality industry, which is such a big economic engine for us. Paired with the planned Omni New Orleans hotel (adjacent to the planned River District), it should bring more conventions and people to the city

While our firm isn’t involved with the Omni Hotel, that job will also create a need for more construction. Other hotels are going to have to do renovations to keep up with the Omni. Developers around the country are paying attention to the River District project, and they’re wondering: Can we get this done? Because if we can’t get it done, it makes us not very attractive for outside investment.But I feel really good about the energy and the support around it.

It’s been difficult for the city to retain recent college graduates and recruit employees in New Orleans. Does the city have a strong talent pipeline to recruit and retain employees in construction?

Our pipeline’s OK. Our firm does a lot of recruiting at LSU, and we do some recruiting at LSU New Orleans (formerly the University of New Orleans), which launched a new construction management program about six years ago. The hardest part about recruiting and retaining employees is the livability of New Orleans, the school systems, the quality of the streets and the crime, which is sometimes blown out of proportion. All of that stuff — quality of life — is important to attract and retain people to the city, and I can’t control that.

I’ve lost some really good employees because they didn’t want to stay on the south shore. They wanted to move to the northshore, and there are great contractors on the northshore. Why commute an hour, hour and a half from the northshore to the city when you can drive 10 minutes to work with another contractor? What could be done to improve that

pipeline?

While there are a lot of great workforce development programs, more can be done to connect construction firms with young people before they go to college. How can we connect with middle schoolers and high schoolers and get them thinking about these careers earlier on?

Another thing is improving our education system, which could attract families to the area. Parents don’t want to have to pay an arm and a leg for private education because the public school system is inadequate.

With environmental challenges and other unique roadblocks to development in the city like a slow zoning and permitting process, does Gibbs Construction feel any pressure to grow by looking out of the state?

Where we are today it’s not necessary or desired to leave. We know the players. We know how to handle project bidding. We know our subcontracting community We do have one project in Mississippi right now, a repeat client, but the majority of our

Email

grace. mayer@theadvocate.com.

STAFF PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER

The Rivana Apartments are planned next to the Shell Riverside building and the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in the River District along the Mississippi River

ACROSS THE REGION

Agency says north Louisiana seeing financial wins

BY LIZ SWAINE Staff writer

Rob Cleveland, the president and CEO of Grow NELA, said he often hears questions about the impact the gian t Meta Hyperion data center construction project is having on the 10-parish region in northeast Louisiana.

So the economic development agency has started posting some of the dollars and cents details of the story Cleveland and his fivemember Grow NELA staff started by collecting publicly available sales tax data for the past five years and posting it on nelagrowth. com. His organization will continue to track the data “so long as the data continues to be meaningful.”

The move comes as communities from Utah to Virginia have fought against data center development on the grassroots and legislative levels. At least 75 data center projects worth about $130 billion have been blocked or delayed on the local level in the first quarter of the year, according to Data Center Watch, which tracks opposition to data centers nationwide,.

expect long-term gains.” Cleveland said the ripple effect of the Meta activity can be felt across the region. A recent meeting with a development group that came specifically to build a data center near Hyperion led to them invest in four buildings in downtown Monroe, part of the 3.7acre Ouachita Candy Co. property, which they plan to transform into a multimillion-dollar mixed-use development.

Local companies like Copeland Electric, MOEbiz and ServiceMaster Pro also are seeing a bump, he said. All concerns not abated

Though money is changing hands at a rapid clip, there are still concerns about Meta. Water use, a huge need for electrical power, the loss of farmland, significant increases in

Cleveland said he appreciates when people ask him about those concerns, but that isn’t the focus of Grow NELA.

For the first quarter of 2026, Richland Parish, which is the epicenter of Hyperion construction, collected $38.7 million in sales taxes — more than six times greater than the $5.3 million it collected during the same period a year ago.

What of nearby parishes?

Increased sales tax collections are also being reported in the ring of parishes around Richland, as materials such as aggregate are offloaded and driven to the Meta site.

“Franklin Parish saw a 14% increase; East Carroll

“Facts could matter,” he said. “We felt that it was really important to share the economic impact that is being felt throughout the entire northeast Louisiana region.”

Parish sales taxes up over 8% That’s not all attributable to Meta, but the most of it is,” Cleveland said.

Ouachita Parish, where the area’s largest city, Monroe, is located, is estimated by Grow NELA to finish 2026 with $267.8 million in sales taxes, versus its preMeta best of $223.7 million in 2024.

Richland Parish’s 2026 estimate is $97.7 million, nearly five times greater than its pre-Meta high of $20.6 million. Richland Parish is one of the poorest in the state and had a population of 20,000, according to the 2020 U.S. census. By comparison, Bossier City, home of Barksdale Air

Force Base and with a population of more than 63,000 collected $67.5 million in sales taxes during 2025.

Though sales tax data was publicly available before, Cleveland said it was not always easy to access.

“We were thrilled to get it,” he said, admitting that their first goal was simply to push it out. He hopes more details, such as breaking down sales tax by their North American Industry Classification System code, will follow A NAICS breakdown will show not only how much sales tax is being collected, but also give a better view of where it is being spent. NAICS has 20 broad categories,

including construction, utilities, retail trade, transportation and warehousing, real estate and rental and leasing, and others.

“We just haven’t gotten there yet,” Cleveland said.

More data points

There are other individual success stories to tell, too, as well as job creation and property tax assessments, all numbers that Cleveland hopes to gather later.

“We need more hotels. We need more apartments. We need more housing. Those are going to take a little more time to come online, and then those will certainly increase the property tax, another area where we

“If you don’t

PFILE HOTO By SOPHIA GERMER

in Holly Ridge.

NATION & WORLD

U.S. student loan defaults surging

Borrowers struggling to keep up with payments

BY NICKY FORSTER and HEATHER HOLLINGSWORTH Associated Press

Defaults on student loans have surged across the United States, reaching record levels as borrowers struggle to keep up with payments.

The numbers have spiked since payments came due again following a lengthy pause intended to provide relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, around 9.5 million people — 1 in 5 federal student loan borrowers are in default, meaning they are more than nine months behind on their payments.

While credit scores can suffer when borrowers are just a few months behind, entering default brings the possibility of more serious consequences, including garnished wages or Social Security payments. For now, the Trump administration has held off on such involuntary collections.

behind,” said Aissa Canchola Bañez, policy director for the advocacy group Protect Borrowers.

The roots of the record number of defaults go back to the COVID pandemic.

The U.S Education Department allowed borrowers to suspend federal student loan payments during the economic tumult of the pandemic. Though payments technically started coming due again in 2023, the Biden administration provided a one-year buffer period that ended in fall 2024.

Loans couldn’t enter default during this time, and federal programs designed to help delinquent borrowers and debt forgiveness initiatives brought millions out of default.

Starting in June 2025, with the pause having ended nine months prior borrowers began defaulting again for the first time since the pandemic.

“Folks are struggling to make ends meet and cover all the rising costs of everything else. The

loan bills are making things worse and folks are falling behind.”

Since then, the number of defaulted borrowers has exploded from 5.3 million to around 9.5 million, according to data from the Office of Federal Student Aid. Out of $1.7 trillion in federally backed student loans nationwide, $233.3 billion is in default.

AISSA CANCHOLA

BAÑEZ, policy director for advocacy group Protect Borrowers

Despair is on the rise, advocates say “Folks are struggling to make ends meet and cover all the rising costs of everything else The growing student loan bills are making things worse and folks are falling

Another wave of defaults could be on the way The Trump administration has eliminated the most generous income-driven repayment plan, Saving on a Valuable Education, or SAVE, as part of its overhaul of the federal student loan system.

The millions of borrowers who had been enrolled in SAVE now will face the strain of paying more each month.

The U.S Education Department allowed borrowers to suspend federal student loan payments during the economic tumult of the pandemic. Starting in June 2025, with the pause having ended nine months prior borrowers began defaulting again for the first time since the pandemic.

Starting this month, new borrowers pick between one standard repayment plan and one incomedriven option, as opposed to having several options. The Education Department has described the changes as a simplification of a “fragmented and confusing” system.

Many of the states with the highest concentrations of defaulted borrowers are in the South, an Associated Press analysis found.

Mississippi has the nation’s highest default rate at 28.3%, with Louisiana in second place at 27%.

Others near the top include Alabama, West Virginia, Oklahoma, Georgia South Carolina and Texas. Rounding out the 15 states with the highest default rates are Alaska, Arizona, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, New Mexico and Nevada.

Of those states, New Mexico was the only one Republican President Donald Trump didn’t win in 2024.

Beyondthe Workplace.

Jones Walker’s Labor&Employmentattorneys offer clientsone of thelargest,mostdiverse,and experienced laborand employment lawpractices in theregion.

We counselanarray of regional andnationalcompanies in awiderange of industries in allaspects of laborand employment law. We help clientsfind solutions to labor andemploymentlaw mattersusing practical, commonsenseapproaches.Webelieve our abilitytocombine our depthinlabor andemploymentlaw withJones Walker’s broadbaseofexperienceinother practice areasto addressuniqueworkplaceand industry situations gives our clientsadistinctadvantage notavailable from small boutique lawfirms.

William

H. Hines Managing Partner

“These are folks who live in states that President Trump won in the previous election,” Bañez said.

And why I bring that up is, you know, there’s a lot of misconceptions and tropes about who student loan borrowers are, and who are the ones who are falling behind.”

She said many are “workingclass folks who just cannot keep up with these bills on top of everything else.”

Meanwhile, the territory of Puerto Rico had a 30.9% default rate, higher than any of the states. Students who attended for-profit colleges struggle more than others to pay back their loans.

Thirty-three percent of those borrowers were 90 days or more behind on their student loan payments, a rate more than double that of borrowers who attended public schools, according to data by the Office of Federal Student Aid released this year to help

schools understand and identify default risks.

Out of the schools in the top quarter for nonpayment rates, 76% were for-profit schools. The FSA argues that a high nonpayment rate represents a “serious risk” of developing a high default rate.

An association for private trade schools and career colleges is so concerned it has created a task force to reach out to students about the importance of loan repayment.

Jason Altmire, the head of the group Career Education Colleges and Universities, said some of it can be chalked up to the pandemic Other borrowers are confused over the Biden administration’s failed loan forgiveness effort. Still, he said the issue will be discussed at the association’s summer convention.

“We take it seriously,” he said. “It’s a real problem.”

ForLouisiana businessleaders,labor and employmentlaw is no longeraback-office issue—itisacorebusinessconcern that directly impactsoperations, talent retention, andlong-termgrowth. Employersmust prepare forseveral upcoming labor and employmentchallenges.

Strong workplacemanagementiscriticaltolimitingturnover andavoidingdisputesthatcan lead to an arrayofissues. Accommodation andleave complianceisalsocomplex,as state-levelprotections maygobeyondfederallaw,particularly forpregnancyand disability.OSHAoversight also remainsa priority in Louisiana’sindustrialsectors,wheresafetyauditsand updated training canreducebothriskand penalties. Benefits complianceadds furtherpressure, with COBRAnotices,401(k) administration, andhealthplan parity drawingscrutiny.

Proactiveattention is keytoworkforcestability—and we are proudtohelpleadthe wayforward.

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By JOSE LUIS MAGANA

SidLewis

NATION &WORLD

Mich.semiconductor plantoncetoutedbyBiden to close

Operations to wind down ‘based on market conditions’

BY BETH LEBLANC, GRANT SCHWAB and SUMMER BALLENTINE

The Detroit News (TNS)

Asemiconductor wafer manufacturer near Bay City,Michigan, once visited and touted byformer President JoeBiden, will wind down its operations andclose “basedonmarket conditions,” accordingtoaspokesperson forSK Siltron.

About 140 employees atthe site were informed last week of the decision and that the effectiveend date of their employmentwould be within 60 days, according to the company.The companyis currently on arepaymentplanwith the state after failing to meet job retention goals tied to taxpayerfunded incentives, according to the Michigan Economic Development Corp.

“Based on changes in market conditions, SK Siltron will wind down itsU.S.-basedSKSiltron CSS subsidiary,” said JoeGuy Collier,aspokesperson for SK Americas. “SK Siltron appreciates the hard work and dedication of its Michigan employees as well as the strong support from local, state and federal officials.”

SK Siltron CSS, aU.S. subsidiary of the Korean SK Group conglomerate, announced in 2021 that it would more than double itsMichigan employee basethrough a$300 million expansion that included anew site in Bay City,creating 150 jobs. Biden visited the plant in 2022 to tout state and federal investments and hailed the investment as a“game changer.”

“We’re going to be the supply chain,” Bidensaid.“The difference is going to be we’regoing to make that supply chain available to the rest of the world, but we’re not going to be held hostage anymore.”

TNSFILE PHOTOBySKSILTRON CSS

Ascientist at SK Siltron CSS holdsa silicon carbide wafer producedatthe company’sMichigan facility.The factorywill close ‘based on market conditions,’according to the company.

SK Siltron made the investments in the Bay City facility afew years agoto“meet then-growing customer demand for aspecialized productused in electric vehicles,” Collier said.

“Significant changes in the EV markethavecreated sustained challenges for the silicon carbide wafer business,” Collier said. “SK Siltron CSSwill work closely with employees and officials to ensure a responsible wind-down.”

U.S. Rep. Kristen McDonaldRivet, aDemocrat who has the plantin her district, calledthe news “devastating” forworkers in the region and she blamed the job losseson President DonaldTrump’sadministration

“Wehad new plantsand goodpaying manufacturing jobscoming to mid-Michigan, but this administration’schaotictariffs, energy policy,and foreignwars are killing them,” McDonald Rivet said in astatement. “This is therealityofhis chaotic policies —disappearing jobs forpeople whodesperately need them. We urgently need acourse correction.”

SK Siltron CSS wasawarded nearly $6 million in tax incentives by thestate, including a$1.5 million Michigan Business Development Program grant as well as a 15-year State Essential Services Assessment exemption.

SK Siltron was awarded the full $1.5 million from the state after

creating 150 qualified new jobs, MEDC spokesperson Danielle Emerson said Friday

But, in 2025, the company reported the elimination of some of those jobs, which triggered astate repayment notice or asix-month cure period, Emerson said. Thecompany was onlyabletoreestablish 86 qualified new jobs and in Aprilterminated its agreement with the state, Emerson said. As part of that termination, she said SK Siltron wasrequired to repay roughly $640,000 to the state over four installments, with the first $160,000 installment made last month.

SK Siltron CSSintends to repay thestate subsidies, Collier said.

“SK companiesare responsible borrowersand partners,”hesaid. “Siltronwill provide the funds required to SK Siltron CSS to pay off its obligations before the SK Siltron CSS subsidiary is dissolved.”

The companyalso drewdown about$166.7million of a$544 millionloanfromthe federal government, according to the Department of Energy.SKSiltron recently paid off the loan, the department said.

“It’sunfortunate,” said Terry Spencer,Monitor Township supervisor.“As thetownship goes, we work really hard to help businesses get established in our township. Certainly, withSKSiltron, that wasagreat investment in ourcommunity.”

Bay County Executive Jim Barcia said he learned about the plant closure from newsreports.

The loss of the plant “is not going to be devastating to our county,” Barciasaid, adding that he has worked to attract diverse business enterprises and manufacturers to support the economy

“We’re disappointed,” Barcia said. “But we have aresilient workforce, and we will certainly continue to collaborate withall of ouravailableresources to help these displaced workers.”

The scaling back of business activitiesinMichigan forthe Korean company started in November, when SK Siltron announced it would close its plant in Auburn. At the time, the chipmaker cited aslowdown in theEVmarket and said it wouldconsolidate operations within the now-closing Bay County facility

Bay Area Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Magen Samyn encouraged displaced workers to reach out to the local Michigan Works branch for free career support.

“We’re committed to working with SK Siltron CSS, our local and state partners to explore future opportunities for the facility and help identifya use that supports jobs, investment and continued economic growth in Bay County,” Samyn said.

Staff report

SouthLouisiana businesses and nonprofitgroups recently announced the followingpromotions, new hires and resignations.

BatonRouge

Sabrina Hogan has beenpromoted to become senior vice president of government programs for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Hoga n, who has had senior positions at St. Francis MedicalCenterand St.Francis Medical Group in Monroe in the past, wasmost recently senior vice presidentfor care delivery and president of Louisiana Blue’swholly owned subsidiary,TeleHealth.

Jimmy Soper has been named the first coach of the Baton Rouge Kingfish,the newly rebranded Federal Prospects Hockey League minor league club.

Fool’sTake:

Drugs and dividends

Pharmaceutical giant Pfizer

Soperis anine-year veteran of professional hockey with experience at multiple levels of the sport, most recently ascaptainofthe Knoxville IceBearsinthe Southern Professional Hockey League.

Allison Colón has joined Kean Millerassenior counsel. Her arrival strengthens the firm’s commercial litigation, com plex bus in ess transactions and corporate bankruptcy practices. Colón has more than 25 years of legal experience.

Carlos Sample has been hired as thenext head coachofthe BatonRouge Community College basketball program. Sample was atwo-timeAllSouthwestern Athletic Conference selection at Southern

University before spending 16 seasons as headcoach at Scotlandville Magnet High School, which reached 14 consecutive state championship games and amassed a record of 676-198 underhis leadership.

TheLouisianaPharmacists Association installed new officers and directorsatits annual convention in Bossier City RichardBordelon,ofWomen’s Retail Pharmacy in Baton Rouge, becomes capital regionaldirector; Christopher Gillard,ofXavierUniversity, becomes the Orleans regional director; and SteveRitter,of Kenner,becomes thePontchartrain regional director Kevin LaGrange,ofThe ApothecaryShoppe in Lafayette, is the association’snew president Scott Black, of Gulfcoast Pharmaceutical Specialty in Prairieville, is its presidentelect; Michael Cockerham, of University of Louisiana Monroe College of Pharmacy in Shreveport, is the immediate past president; and Minh Nguyen of Willow Bank Pharmacy in Gray,isits treasurer

NewOrleans

Trahan Architectsannounced several new hires and promotions.

Kendall Baldwin becomes managing principa l, overseeing New Orleans and New York studio operations. Baldwin has previous experience at Grimshaw, Tho mas Phifer and Partners and WXY SandraBaggerman was promoted to project designer after 21/2 years withthe firm.

Stephen Breaux was promoted to project designer after five years with the firm.

Jamie Stogsdill hasbeen promoted to becomeArkansas

andLouisianaconsumer banking ex ecu tive for Regions Bank, overseeing retail banking operations in New Orleans, BatonRouge andShreveport; Little Rock and Fayetteville, Arkansas; and additional markets.

Stogsdill joinedRegions as abranch manager in 2012 andservedasa consumer banking manager for Tennesseefor adecadebefore she waspromotedlastyear to becomeretail sales and service manager forRegions’ middle and east Tennessee and Georgia/Carolinas districts.

VictoriaBagot has been named to the board of directors of the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children. Bagot is apartner in the corporate practicegroup at Jones Walker in New Or-

leans andco-leader of thelaw firm’s hiring and recruitment committee.

MichelleMichler hasbeen hired as taxmanageratAccounting Services Unlimited. Mic hle r, who has morethan adecade of experience consulting on tax planning andstrategies, will advise small-business owners on incometax and Louisiana tax relief matters.

Acadiana

Al Patin will become CEO of Ochsner South Shore CommunityHospitals and Bayou Region, starting Aug. 3. Patin has been with Ochsner for23years,spending the last five as CEO of Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center

Do you have personnel changes to shareorother ideas for our business coverage? Drop us aline at biztips@theadvocate.com.

(NYSE: PFE) offers one of the most attractive dividends in the healthcare sector, recently yielding around 6.8%. It has paid adividend for 350 consecutive quarters, with the 351st due in September Few companies have abroader lineup than Pfizer.Itmarketsover adozen blockbuster products, including vaccines and primarycare drugs, specialty drugsand cancer therapies. Pfizer’spipeline features 96 programs,36 of which are either awaiting regulatory approval or in late-stage testing. It’snot all rosesand rainbows, though. Pfizer faces daunting patentcliffsover the next couple of

years. Xeljanzloses U.S. patent exclusivity this year; Ibrance, Xtandi and Eliquis follow suit in 2027. Thedrugmaker also experienced arecentsetback when its lung cancer drug candidatesigvotatug vedotin failed to meet its initial goalinaphase 3study

Meanwhile, Pfizer has an experimental anti-obesitydrug called berobenatide, which it hopes to launch in 2028, believing it will compete well againstEli Lilly’s Zepbound.

Long-term income-seeking investors might want to takea closer look at Pfizer.(The Motley Fool ownsshares of and recommendsPfizerand EliLilly.)

Fool’sSchool:Warren

Buffett’steacher

Many investors credit Warren Buffett for teaching them valuableinvestinglessons. But who didBuffettlearn from? He has

most often creditedhis longtime business partner, Charlie Munger,and his mentor,BenjaminGraham. Here are some instructive quotationsfromGraham’sclassic book “The Intelligent Investor.”

n “There are no sure and easy paths to riches on Wall Street or anywhere else.” This is agood reminder thathot stock tips and “investments” thatseem too good to be true will often disappoint

n “Obvious prospects forphysical growth in abusiness do not translate intoobvious profits for investors.”Inother words,some companiesmay seem to have a goldenfuture,but they may not turn out to be great investments if they’re poorlymanaged, face tough competition or aregrossly overvalued.

n “The investor’schiefproblem —and even his worst enemy —is likely to be himself.”Weneed to keep ouremotions in check when investing, notselling in a

panic when others do or buying overpriced stockswhenothers do.Weneed to understandour investmentsand have reasonable expectations,too, andnot just followthe crowd

n “The margin of safety is always dependent on theprice paid. It will be large at oneprice, small at somehigherprice, nonexistent at somestill higher price.” While those chasing growth stocks will often buy into them no matter howexpensive they get, Graham (andBuffett) favor“value” stocks—those tradingfor less than they seem to be worth. Suchinvestments have abuilt-in margin of safety that can reduce investors’ possible losses.

n “Invest only if youwould be comfortable owning astock even if youhad no way of knowing itsdaily share price.” If you’re along-term investor,day-to-day or month-to-monthstock-price

movementsshouldn’tconcern you. Buffett hassaidthat“The Intelligent Investor”is“by far thebest book on investing ever written.” If you’re serious about stocksand want to learnmore, check it out.

Ask the Fool:SEC access for investors Iknowthat public companies have to file reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission. How do investors access them? —V.E., Bend, Oregon Many companies share their quarterly 10-Q and annual 10-K reports right on their own websites, often in an “Investors” section. Youcan also look them up at sec.gov/search-filings. If you’re old-school, try calling the company’sInvestor Relations department and ask if they can mail you the latest annual report and quarterly filings.

Hogan Soper

Colón

Baldwin

Baggerman

Breaux

Stogsdill

Bagot

Michler

Motley Fool

ONE BIG QUESTION

What was your worst or wildest business trip?

BY GRACE MAYER Staff writer

It’s summer, which, for some of us, means it’s time to get out of town and enjoy the experience of travel with family or friends.

For many busy executives, though, travel is a year-round part of the daily grind — and it’s not always enjoyable.

While swapping notes in the newsroom about our summer vacations, we decided for this week’s One Big Question feature to ask jet-setting south Louisiana business executives: What was your worst or wildest business trip?

Their stories went beyond the headaches of missed or canceled flights and tight connections. They shared times when they had to navigate work meetings alongside chaotic weather events, wardrobe hindrances and even run-ins with wildlife.

The following answers have been edited for length and clarity

MIKE POLITO CEO, MAPP

In the 1980s, I traveled to Wilmington, Delaware, a robust union town at the time, but the construction company I worked for wasn’t unionized. That became a problem. Our team got a call threatening us to not take the project we had traveled there for. I picked up the phone, and the person on the other end said, in a passive aggressive tone, “Good morning, are you taking prices on the project?” I responded, “Yes sir, we are.” The person then said: “This is Jimmy Hoffa Concrete, and here’s our price,” which was a reference to the 1975 disappearance of Hoffa, the former president of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters union who had close ties to the Mafia. When I got off the phone, my division manager said, “What was that

about? You turned white as a ghost.”

We ended up not doing the job, because the owner got nervous about working with a nonunion contractor. I haven’t been to Delaware since.

RICHARD CORTIZAS

Partner and chief culture and inclusion officer, Jones Walker I flew to Washington, D.C., for a business presentation in the 1990s, but when I arrived, my checked luggage was missing. All I had was what I was wearing, which, at best, you could describe as business casual: shorts, a T-shirt and shoes. I was scrambling to find a place to buy a tie, a shirt and a jacket for my 10 a.m. meeting the next morning, but it was late and nothing was open at that hour

I found a thrift store in Arlington that opened at 8 a.m. the next day

The only thing I found there that fit was a seersucker suit with green, yellow and orange pinstripes. It was a bohemian, Uptown New Orleans-chic kind of ensemble. It

was not the most appropriate for a meeting where I was talking about international business. I got the impression from folks that they were thinking, “Wow, he’s a really cool guy,” or “Wow, New Orleans is very unique” because of the way I was dressed But the meeting went well.

MARY EYMARD

Investments asset manager

JPMorgan Chase

I traveled to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, two years ago for what was supposed to be a day trip, but Mother Nature had different plans. By the afternoon, it was raining nonstop, several inches an hour I was trying to drive to the airport but got stuck in standstill traffic and the streets were flooding. My flight ended up getting canceled, at which point I tried driving to a nearby Embassy Suites. When I got there, the hotel looked like an island, entirely surrounded by water I had to pull into a parking lot across the street and waited

there by myself from 6 p.m. that evening until 4 a.m for the floodwaters to go down. At that point, the water was still too deep for my rental car to drive, but I was able to call an Uber, this giant SUV, which drove me from where I was parked to the hotel right across the street. I crawled into the hotel bed and slept for a few hours and hoped to fly out that morning — but the Fort Lauderdale airport was completely flooded the next day

REID MARTIN

Artist manager and co-founder, MidCitizen Entertainment

Last week, I was driving with Big Freedia (one of our clients), who was scheduled to perform at a festival in St. Louis, when our van started to malfunction three hours outside of the city First, my phone stopped charging, then the cruise control and the radio stopped working, then the battery light on the dashboard went on. We found an O’Reilly Auto Parts

not too far off the highway, where a mechanic determined the car needed a new alternator But the nearest in-stock alternator was at an auto store in Dyersburg, Tennessee, which we would have to drive to. One of the O’Reilly workers, this skinny, bald guy with a goatee, offered to drive me to grab the alternator and fix the car himself.

The next morning, as we were driving, he started telling me about every conspiracy theory possible, including that Hurricane Katrina was man-made. It was a wild 45-minute drive, but he was also a super nice guy He drove me back to the tour van, replaced the alternator and I was able to get Big Freedia to her show in St. Louis.

KATIE JENSEN

CEO and co-founder

Triton Stone Group

While meeting with suppliers in Thailand and Indonesia, my team made a pit stop in Bali to visit the Uluwatu Temple an old temple located on the edge of a 230-foot cliff that looks out onto the Indian Ocean. There were hundreds of monkeys roaming around; these gray longtailed macaques that are considered guardians of the temple. Signs were posted everywhere advising visitors to hold onto their glasses and phones because monkeys would try to steal them. Sure enough, one of the monkeys came up to me and snatched the sunglasses off my face. They were my favorite pair, from the New Orleans brand Krewe, so I chased this monkey around to try to get them back. A local person ended up throwing pieces of bread to the monkey, which caused him to drop the sunglasses They now have bite marks along the edges, but I still wear them.

Email Grace Mayer at grace. mayer@theadvocate.com.

What theIndependent,Federal Data Actually Shows: AClearer Look at Louisiana’sCommercial andRecreationalFishing Economics

In Louisiana, wherefishingisbothaway of life andacornerstone of theeconomy,the data tellsanimportant story. It is notabout choosing onesectoroveranother,but about understanding howbothsupport ashared economicand cultural foundation forour state.

Economicdatareleasedthisyearfrom theNationalOceanic andAtmospheric Administration (NOAA) offersone of the clearest pictures of theU.S.fishingindustry. Louisiana’scommercialfishing sector extendsacrossthe state’smajor saltwater industries –menhaden, shrimp,oysters blue crab,and awiderange of finfish–which together supportharvesting, processing, and distributionincoastal communities.

AccordingtoNOAA’sFisheries Economics of theUnitedStatesreport, Louisiana’s commercial fishingsectorgenerates approximately$1.46 billionin salesimpact. Recreational fishing, by comparison generatesabout $327 million. Employment andEconomicRole Theemploymentfiguresshowasimilar pattern. Commercial fishingand seafood processing in Louisianasupports28,993jobs, whilerecreationalfishingsupportsjust 2,422. That meanscommercialfishingsupports roughlyten timesmorejobsthanrecreational fishinginLouisiana.Thisgap underscores thesectors’differentroles in thebroader economy, whilebothcontinuetosupport livelihoodstiedtoLouisiana’s coastalidentity andway of life

Thesedifferences highlighthow each sector contributes to Louisiana’seconomy in distinct ways andatdifferentscales. Importantly, theseroles arecomplementary within a broader coastaleconomy InterconnectedIndustryInfrastructure Beyond theirdistincteconomic contributions, Louisiana’scommercialfishing

sectorsoperate as adeeplyinterconnected system builtonsharedinfrastructureand resources. Harvesters acrossfisheriesrely on thesameports,fueldocks,ice houses processing facilities,and transportation networks to bringseafood from thewater to market.Supplychainsfor gear,vessel maintenance, cold storage, anddistribution supportmultiplefisheriessimultaneously, meaningthe strength of onesectorhelps sustainthe viabilityofothers. This integrated logisticsnetwork reinforcesthatLouisiana’s seafoodeconomy functionsnot as isolated industries,but as acoordinated working waterfront

WhyComparableDataMatters

When viewed on comparable terms– such as totalsales impact andemployment– the data provides aclearer pictureofhow each sector contributestoLouisiana’s economy

When differentornon-equivalenteconomic measures areusedinpublic discussions, it cancreate confusionabout relative rolesand contributions. Usingconsistentmetrics –likejobsand totalsales impact –helps ensure a more accurate,applesto-apples comparison.A consistent,side-by-side understanding canhelp inform more balanced and effective decision-making.

ASharedResource

Import antly, both sectorsdependonthe same healthyfisheriesand coastalenvironment,and both play meaningful roles in Louisiana’sculture and economy.Sustaining that shared resource base is a

common interest that unites commercial and recreationalstakeholdersalike

Understanding theFullPicture TheNOAAdatadoesnot suggestthat recreational fishing is unimportant.Onthe contrary,itplays ameaningful role in outdoor recreationand localeconomies

At thesametime, thedataoffersa useful benchmarkfor understanding thescale and structureofLouisiana’s commercial seafood economy

Together,the data underscoresthat commercial fishing supports alarge share of jobsand salesactivity, whilerecreational fishingcontributes significantly through participation, tourism, andrelated spending Both remain integral to Louisiana’sidentity as aworking coast.

LookingAhead As fisheriesmanagementdiscussions continue to evolve –expanding beyond

menhaden to includeshrimp, oysters, and othersectors –grounding thosediscussions in consistent,comparable3rd partydatawill be critical

With asharedunderstanding of the numbers, policymakers andstakeholders canbettersupport both sectorsand the communitiesthatdependonthem. Thegoal is nottoelevate onesectoratthe expenseof theother,but to ensure that policies reflect the full valueofLouisiana’s fisheries as awhole Thedataprovidesa foundation foramore informeddiscussion– onethatreflects the full economic pictureand theimportance of gettingitright.Whenviewedalongside clear, comparable metrics, thetakeawayis straightforward:Louisiana’s strength lies in thecombinedcontributions of both its commercial andrecreational fishing sectors.

STAFF FILE PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

A flight lands at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.

Polito

Cortizas

Martin

Eymard

Jensen

Broughttoyou by LouisianaCommercialFisheries Coalition, LLC

WhyLouisiana? TheRiskand Reward Behind a$32 Billion Data Center Push

In lessthan 18months,Louisiana has transformedfromvirtually no hyperscale data center presence to hosting three of the largestprojects in the country,led by majordigital leaders.A$10billion campus in Richland Parish,1 a$12 billion investmentacrossCaddo and Bossier Parishes,2 and a $10billion River Bend facilityinWestFeliciana Parish1representacombined $32 billion commitment that placesLouisianaatthe center of the nationaldatacenterboom. Construction is nowunderway

Developers chose Louisiana forgood reasons. Thestate’s industrial contractorshavespent decades building refineries, chemical plants and LNG facilities —complex,high-stakes work at scale

This expertisetransfers directly to data center construction,and it’s ameaningful edge.Louisiana contractorsare already building data centersacrossthe countrybecause they’reamongthe best at this type of work. Siting aprojectinthe statekeepsthattalent close,resulting in faster projectdelivery andtightercostcontrol. Siteselection also reflectsaclear-eyedinsurancecalculation.Two of the three major projects sit in North Louisiana, near the Arkansas border.Locating away from the Gulf Coasthurricane corridor materially changes the underwriting math.

With confirmed projects nowspreadacrossthe northwest,northeast and southeast of the state, underwritersare watching howthat geographic concentrationaccumulatesacrosstheir books

Powerand waterdraware legitimatecommunityconcerns. Data centersconsumeboth at ascale thatstrains local grids and utility capacity. Some Louisiana powercompanies arealready planning upgrades to support the newdemand. Longer term, on-site generation,including small modular reactors,may reducegrid dependency forfuturebuilds. These aren’t unsolvable problems. Buttheyneed to be part of the projectplan from dayone

Building success:Whatittakes to getitright

These facilities areinNorth Louisiana because it’s moreaffordable to secure the coverage and limits required —it’saninsurancedecision as much as alocation one

“ ”

Troy Wagener,AreaExecutiveVicePresident, Gallagher

Therisk pictureinLouisiana

Louisiana’s broader property and casualtymarket,byWagener’s currentread, is stable. Theinsurancemarketisabsorbing an unprecedentedvolume of high-limit construction requests as data center buildsacceleratenationwide.Excessliability and commercial automobile liabilityfor contractor fleets —already under pressure in large construction programs —facegenuine capacityconstraints when asingle siteisworth $10billion to $15billion.

In Louisiana specifically,thosepressures aresharper: commercial automobile liabilityrates forconstruction rank among thehighest in the country,and excess liabilitycapacityfor large industrial programs is genuinelyconstrained. That friction shows up in pricing, deductibles and whatcarrierswill actually put on thetable

Climate perils compound thatscrutiny. North Louisiana avoidsthe worstofthe Gulf Coasthurricane corridor,but majorstorms still push wind and rain well inland. Inland flooding and severe convectivestorms areliveperils acrossall three projectlocations.

Done right, projects of this scale bring lasting returns. Thetax revenuewill flowintoLouisiana communities overdecades, into education, infrastructureand economic development, well beyond whatdirectemploymentfroma data center operation alone woulddeliver. Louisiana movedearly in this cycle and secured a strong position.

Gettingthatrightstarts beforefinancingcloses,with construction risk, supply chain exposures, powerstrategy and operational coverage all aligned from dayone.Thatincludesparametric triggers forbusiness interruption —coverage thatactivates without a physical loss —which matterswhen agrid failureorsupply chain delaycan cost millions beforeasingle claim is filed.

Gallagher’s Data Center Solutions team workswith developers, contractorsand operatorsacrossthe full projectlifecycle.To connectwith ourLouisiana team, visit AJG.com/louisiana

Troy Wagener Area ExecutiveVicePresident

Scan the code to connectwith us.

JUDE BRIDWELL

HANCOCKWHITNEY 225-603-1777 •Jude.Bridwell@hancockwhitney.com hancockwhitney.com/jude-bridwell •NMLS 92661

JEREMYWEIMER

HANCOCKWHITNEY 225-978-2592 •Jeremy.Weimer@hancockwhitney.com hancockwhitney.com/jeremy-weimer •NMLS 175288

BILL HOLT

HANCOCKWHITNEY 225-229-8783 •Bill.Holt@Hancockwhitney.com hancockwhitney.com/bill-holt •NMLS 148394

ANGEL LEWIS

HANCOCKWHITNEY 225-413-6094 •Angel.Lewis@hancockwhitney.com hancockwhitney.com/angel-lewis•NMLS 700876

MICHAEL HEBERT

•Tim.dubnansky@hancockwhitney.com hancockwhitney.com/tim-dubnansky •NMLS 82027

HANCOCKWHITNEY 225-715-1133 •Michael.Hebert@hancockwhitney.com hancockwhitney.com/michael-hebert •NMLS 79769

MILO LORENZOPOWELL 1119 OWLAVE NEST EGGCULTIVATION,LLC 4917 EDGENAVE JUDY ANNWOODCARTER 11955 MOLLYLEA DR THEESTATEOFANDREWFORRESTER

LOUISIANA

Kidstakepartinphysical

GETTINGACTIVE

Physical educationisdue forastrong comeback in Louisianawithnew guidelines

BY MARGARETDELANEY

Staffwriter

Tevin Moton takes training seriously.Every morning he has agroup doing something new Jumpingboxes.Pulling weights Stretching hips. He plansnew activitiesfor each session.

“It keeps the mindsharp,”hesaid At Ochsner Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute’sElite Training Complex —Burbank in Baton Rouge, Motonworks with all ages —from 7to70— on full-body performance, power and conditioning

“The first thing to goispower,” Motonsaid about theagingbody. “That can be as simple as atwo-second

pause whengetting up froma chair.”

Dailyphysical activity,according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control andPrevention, is key to keeping the body preparedand in itsbest shape to support it as it ages.

Gottschalk

“At least60minutes, but I’ll give 30 minutes aday to an adultwitha busy life,” said Dr.Andrew Gottschalk, Ochsner’sdirector of Primary Care Sports Medicine. “It’snever too late to start.Life is worth living, whether youare 18 or 95 years old.”

However,starting physical activities early in life has major benefits.

Establishing active habits in youth

lays the foundation for lifelong wellbeing. Key advantages include buildingstronger bonesand muscles, regulating body weight, and lowering theriskofchronic conditions like heart disease and Type 2diabetes, theCDC reports. It also improves cognitive function, sleep quality and mental health.

“I do like seeing the young middle school and high school athletes, I can kind of encourage them to keep those habitsup,” Gottschalk said.“ There’sthis positive feedback loop. We’redoing the body good. We’reincreasing longevity, not just how long you live, but thequalityofthat life.”

ThePhysicalActivityAlliance, the nation’slargest coalition dedicated

ä See ACTIVE, page 2X

This is acolumn in aseries from Dr.Scott Hamilton,director of the pediatricemergency department at Ochsner Lafayette GeneralMedicalCenter, offering practicalguidance on preventingand treating illnesses and injuries so kids can stay healthyand outofthe emergencydepartment.

Jane, amom from Lafayette,was at Walt Disney Worldwithher constipated 3-year-old son. One morning beforeheadingout, she gave him alaxative.

“Within an hour it started to take effect,” Jane recalled, “In front of theSwiss Family Robinson Treehouse, he’spulling

down his pants, becausewhen you gotta go, you gotta go! I’ve never seen my husband runsofast.”

The moral of the story: preparefor vacation bodily function disasters. Pack medications for pain, fever,and diarrhea, and bandages and ointment for boo-boos. You

decide on the laxative! If your child haswheezing issues, toss in thatinhaler

Youdon’t want to be driving around an unfamiliar city at 11 p.m. looking for a24-hour pharmacy —I’vebeen there

Jane always packed extra clothes for her kids, anticipating spills andvomiting.

However,she didn’tthrow extra clothesfor herself into the carry-on, when her son barfedonher at the beginning of aplane flight. While he had fresh clothes, she wore his vomit for five hours, down her back andinto herpants.

ä See TRAVEL, page 2X

Dr.Scott Hamilton

PROVIDED PHOTO

TevinMoton works in the weightroom at Ochsner Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute at EliteTraining Complex-Burbank in Baton Rouge.

PHOTOBySOPHIA GERMER

education in December at Laureate

Academy Charter School in Harvey.

HEALTHY DISCUSSION

Treating kids guides N.O. neurosurgeon’s research

BY MARGARET DELANEY Staff writer

Dr Jerome Volk, a pediatric neurosurgeon at Ochsner Health and native of the New Orleans suburbs, spends his days in the operating room, with many of his cases coming directly from the emergency room.

That’s common in pediatric neurosurgery Volk said.

He earned his medical degree, surgical internship and residency from Louisiana State University School of Medicine in New Orleans and completed a pediatric neurosurgery fellowship at Northwestern University in Chicago.

”I’ve got more coats and layers in my closet that I’m never gonna wear ever again,” Volk said. Now back in New Orleans, Volk treats everything in pediatric neurosurgery from tumors to congenital spina bifida to seizures and more. Part of why he loves the job is when he gets to work with families.

”I’m going to be very open and honest with parents, show them pictures and explain everything they need to know,” Volk said.

“The more opportunity I can give them to learn what’s going on, the better it will be.”

PROVIDED PHOTO

Dr Jerome Volk is a pediatric neurosurgeon at Ochsner Health in New Orleans.

Before joining Ochsner two years ago, Volk held several leadership and academic positions at hospitals in the Greater New Orleans area, including Manning Family Children’s Hospital and LSU Health He remains active in national neurosurgical societies, including the American Association of Neurological Surgeons and the Congress of Neurological Surgeons. This interview has been

edited for length and clarity

Tell me a bit about growing up here in Louisiana.

New Orleans is a unique city You can’t really describe it to anybody unless you’re here, right? We’re good at some things, and not good at some things. But don’t let anybody else tell you we’re not good at something. Went to Jesuit High School, and you know, just love everything about New

Q&A WITH DR. JEROME VOLK

Orleans. Went to college in Georgia, and then came back to LSU for medical school because that was what I always wanted. Growing up, meeting doctors and hearing about the training at LSU had always sparked an interest to come back.

I always wanted to be a doctor At first, it was because I was a very clumsy child. I had a lot of broken bones.

Another reason that drove me to become a doctor is my mother passed away with brain cancer when I was small. Seeing not just the role of a doctor as a physician, but the role of a doctor as someone who is there for families was something that’s pretty profound.

That’s part of the draw of working here. The connection to the community that I have.

I did neurosurgery first at LSU. In my residency, I was hesitant if I wanted to go into pediatrics or not.

During one of my research years, my mentor Dr Clarence Green, said: “Why don’t you come rotate with us at the Children’s Hospital? We don’t have a resident right now.”

Kids, they’re just so tough. They don’t care what’s going on. We could take out a huge brain tumor, and all the kid wants to do is go play with their friends or go back to school the next day They are so much tougher than adults.

They always make me want to do better

Tell me about your work with pediatric gunshot victim data.What is your goal with the research?

For New Orleans, one of the things that we have more of than we’d like to is pediatric trauma.

I’ve built upon a postHurricane Katrina project I was a part of in my residency, looking at the decreases and increases in pediatric trauma. We recently published an article regarding 10-year data on pediatric gunshot wounds to the head. We unfortunately had one of the biggest series ever published regarding those patients. We are in the process of a multicenter study across the country looking at the amount of gunshot wounds to the head in pediatric patients, mostly in the South. Our goal is to use this data to see what we can do better We’ve looked at the best way to treat injuries to

the blood vessels and more. Because of our research, we’ve been involved with gun task-force committees through the American Society of Pediatric Neurosurgeons and colleagues in South Africa who also have a large number of pediatric gunshot trauma as well. What is that one major change in pediatric neurosurgery that sticks out to you that most impacted how you operate?

In terms of surgeries, there’s been a dramatic increase in the amount of technology that we can use now For example, for seizure surgeries with a kid that has epilepsy we went from treating the condition with medicines to surgical to more minimally invasive treatments. Before, there were many big surgeries. Now, we can just place a fiber and burn a seizure from inside the brain without cutting a patient’s head open. There are even ways to do noninvasive with ultrasound-assisted surgeries as well — just in the past 10 years. I have a resident who just finished with me. I told him, “Make sure you learn the old ways, too.”

Email Margaret DeLaney at margaret.delaney@ theadvocate.com.

Kids take part in physical

ACTIVE

Continued from page 1X

to advancing regular participation in physical activity, reported in 2024 that the overall physical activity grade for children and youth was a D-minus. The grade was derived from the National Survey of Children’s Health and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data that showed only 20% to 28% of 6- to 17-year-olds meet the 60 minutes of daily physical activity recommended by the U.S. Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.

In Louisiana, less than one in five youth meet the physi-

TRAVEL

Continued from page 1X

Speaking of airliners: tray tables, armrests, seat belt buckles and air vents are all touched by multiple people, and may not be regularly cleaned between flights. They can harbor more germs than the flush button in the airliner toilets. At one toilet per 50 passengers, that’s saying something. Bring disinfectant wipes to clean your hands and those surfaces as you settle

cal activity guidelines of an hour of physical activity every day

For P.E., some big changes In an effort to buck trends of increased screen times and low physical activity among American children, the Trump administration launched the return of the Presidential Physical Fitness Test, first established in 1958.

The original test consisted of pullups for boys and modified pullups for girls, situps, a shuttle run, standing long jump, 50-yard dash and softball throw for distance, with a 600-yard walk-run being added later The test underwent several modifications before it was retired in 2012 under

into your seat. Otherwise you increase the risk of catching a diarrhea and vomiting bug for you and your family Kids can be embarrassing on the road, especially sitting close to strangers in restaurants or airports. Jane’s son loved to chat up those around him. Loudly At first she and her husband were mortified, until they realized that most people love kids, no matter how deafening Children’s conversations can be fun for other folks, distracting them from their own travel woes. Instead

the Obama administration.

Dr Katherine Spring investigates early childhood movement behaviors, including physical activity at Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge. She served as co-chair of America’s 2024 fitness report card.

replace the 2017 standards after the state’s required seven-year review cycle.

“The findings highlight the need for programs and policies that aid in enhancing children’s physical activity and healthy development,” Spring said.

Louisiana has now approved updated K-12 physical education standards to

of fussing at your kids for talking to others, pick your battles wisely While vacations are for fun and relaxation, they are stressful some more stressful than others. Besides travel strains, moving into unfamiliar hotel rooms and navigating new territories takes some effort and grace. Which kind of vacation are you planning? A pool resort or beach destination is much easier on your nerves than an exhausting Disney trek. Kids get more anxious with regimented schedules in those places, despite how magical

The new P.E. standards are intended to be implemented beginning with the 2027-28 school year, following teacher training during 2026-27.

“Physical education should help foster a lifelong commitment to movement, play and healthy activities,” said Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr Cade Brumley

The standards committee, whose 25 members include classroom teachers, health professionals, higher education faculty and other education stakeholders, looked to strengthen physical education instruction in Louisiana schools that “promoted lifelong physical activity.”

they are. And when children are stressed, they’re more likely to get sick.

One of the most noticeable changes is that high school students are expected to leave school knowing how to manage their own health.

Examples include:

n Creating personal fitness plans, n Setting measurable fitness goals, n Understanding cardiovascular endurance, n Muscular strength, n Flexibility, n Body composition, n Using community resources to stay active after graduation.

Older standards discussed fitness, but the new standards make these practical life skills a major focus.

The new P.E will focus on progression throughout school as well. Kindergart-

ners will learn to jump rope, catch, throw and balance. Grades two and three will work to combine those skills, improving aim, force and dribbling. Fourth and fifth graders will learn to control their movements in open environments and combine multiple movement patterns. Middle-schoolers are expected to put their elementary school skills together for games and coordinate their own offensive and defensive tactics.

“It’s a process to add new standards to schools,” Spring said. “We’ll have to wait and see how training progresses this next school year.”

Email Margaret DeLaney at margaret.delaney@ theadvocate.com.

Thus, “picking your battles” means being patient with them as well as the whole travel hassle. Isn’t that pool resort sounding better and better?

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

The Louisiana Health section is focused on providing in-depth, personal accounts of health in the state.This section looks at medical innovations, health discoveries, state and national health statistics and reexamining tried and true methods on ways to live well.

Health editions will also profile people who are advancing health for the state of Louisiana. Do you have a health story? We want to hear from you. Email margaret.delaney@ theadvocate.com to submit health questions, stories and more.

STAFF FILE PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER

education in December at Laureate Academy Charter School in Harvey.

Eat Fit LiveFit

BROUGH TT OY OU BY

Ultra-processed foods: whythey’re so hardtoresist

Ultra-processedfoodshavebeena hottopicinwellnessconversations, andforgoodreason.Research continuestolinkdietshighinthesefoods withanxietyandinflammation,obesity, Type2diabetes,heartdisease,certain cancersandmore.

Butthisisn’tastoryaboutfear.Thegoal isnotperfection.It’saboutawareness understandingwhysomefoodsaresoeasy toovereatandhowsmallshiftscanhelp protectourlong-termhealth.

Justlastmonth,aseriesofpapers publishedintheAmericanJournalof PublicHealthaddedtotheconversation. Someoftheresearchexploredpossible linksbetweenultra-processedfoodsand cognitivedecline.Otherpapersexamined theroletobaccocompaniesplayedinthe foodindustry.Thedementiafindingsmade headlines,butthebiggerstorymaybehow thesefoodsbecamesosuccessfulinthe firstplace.

WhatUltra-ProcessedMeans

Lotsofnutritiousfoodsare processed.PlainGreekyogurt,steel-cut oats,frozenchoppedspinach,canned beansandevenpre-washedsaladgreens haveallbeenprocessedinsomeway. Processingcanmakehealthyfoodsmore convenient,affordableandaccessible.

Ultra-processedfoodsaredifferent.They aretypicallyindustrialformulationsmade mostlyfromrefinedingredients,additives andcompoundsmanyofuswouldn’thave inourownkitchens.Thinkofproducts likechips,cookies,candies,sugary cereals,frozenmeals,softdrinksand othersmarketedasconvenientgraband-gooptions.

Noteverypackagedfoodisaproblem. Thequestioniswhetherthefoodstill lookslikefood—withingredientswe recognize—orwhetherithasbeen carefullyformulatedtobeespecially appealinganddifficulttoresist.

TheBlissPoint Foodscientistsusetheterm“bliss point”todescribethe“sweetspot” combinationofcarbohydrate,salt,fatand texturethatlightsupourbrain’spleasure centers.Thatcombinationcanmake foodespeciallyrewardingtoeat—and incrediblydifficulttostopeating ForarecentepisodeofmyFUELED Wellness+Nutritionpodcast,I interviewedEricaLaFata,PhD,aclinical psychologistandresearcherwhosework focusesontheaddictiveandreinforcing propertiesofultra-processedfoods

“Thisisn’tjustaboutwillpower;people aren’tsuddenlybecomingworseat regulatingtheireatingbehavior,”noted LaFata.Thefoodenvironmentitselfhas changed,makinghighlyrewarding,ultraprocessedfoodseasiertoaccessand consumethaneverbefore.

TheHistory Accordingtotherecentseriesinthe AmericanJournalofPublicHealth,some ofthesestrategieshavedeeperrootsthan manyofusrealize.Duringthe1980sand 1990s,tobaccocompaniesownedsomeof thenation’slargestfoodcompanies

Researcherssuggestthattobacco companiesbroughttheirexpertisein marketing,consumerpsychologyand productdevelopmentintothefood industry,notingthatsomeproducts wereengineeredtoactivatethebrain’s pathwaystobehighlyrewardingto eat,whiletargetedadvertisinghelped

createanemotionalconnectionbetween productsandconsumers.Thathistoryis importantbecauseithelpsexplainhow certainproductsbecamesocommon, familiarandhardtoresist.

Akeytakeawayisthat,forthemostpart, theseultra-processedfoodsdonotexist innature.Instead,theyarestrategically designedtomaximizecraveability,and ourdesiretoconsumemoreandmore. Themoreweunderstandhowproducts arecreatedandmarketedtous,thebetter equippedwearetomakehealthierchoices.

WhatBrainResearchAdds

Researchersareincreasinglylooking athowultra-processedfoodsmayaffect morethanweightandmetabolism. Thelatestresearchoffersanother reasontopayattention.Inonerecent analysisofmorethan5,000adultsover age50,peoplewhoconsumedthehighest

MollyKimball,RD,CSSD,isaregistereddietitian withOchsnerHealthandfounderofOchsnersEatFit nonprofitinitiative.Formorewellnesscontent,tuneinto Molly’spodcast,FUELEDWellness+Nutrition,andfollow @MollykimballRDand@EatFitOchsneronsocialmedia. Emailnutrition@ochsner.orgtoconnectwithMollyor scheduleaconsultwithherteam.

BY THENUMBERS

amountsofultra-processed foodshadsignificantlyhigher ratesofdementiaandcognitive impairmentthanthosewho consumedtheleast.

It’simportanttonotethat thisstudydoesnotproveultraprocessedfoodscausedementia Itshowsanassociation,which meansresearchersfounda relationshipbutcannotsayfor certainthatonecausedtheother. Still,thesearen’tisolated examples.Thefindingsarepart ofagrowingbodyofresearch suggestingthatdietshighinultraprocessedfoodscannegativelyaffectour health,includingmetabolic,cardiovascular andbrainhealth.

Researchersareexploringseveral possibleexplanations.Ultra-processed foodstendtocrowdoutmorenutrientdenseoptionsandmaycontribute tochronicinflammation,bloodsugar instabilityandchangestothegut microbiome—factorsincreasinglylinked tocognitivehealth.

The(encouraging)flipside?Higherintake ofwholeandminimallyprocessedfoods wasassociatedwithlowerrisk

NoNeedtoPanic

Thisisn’taboutobsessingoverevery ingredientlabel.It’saboutrecognizing howthesefoodsaredesignedand marketedtoussowecanmakemore intentionalchoices.

LaFatabelievesthatawarenessitself canbeempowering.Ithelpsusrecognize thattheissueisn’tsimplywillpower,but thefoodenvironmentsurroundingus everyday

Smallshiftstowardwholeandminimally processedfoodscansupportoverallhealth. Makingintentionalchoices–evenwhen foodsaredesignedtokeepuscomingback formore–isastepintherightdirection.

DEATHRATEFALLS TO PRE-COVIDLEVELS, BUTLA. RATE HIGHER

TheU.S.death rate fell 4.6% last year,a returntoatrend before COVID-19. In 2025, the U.S. death rate was 689.2 deaths per 100,000 people, down from 722.1 in 2024, according to the U.S. Centers forDisease Control and Prevention’s NationalCenterfor Health Statistics. In Louisiana, thedeath rate decreased by 3%, from 2023 to 2024. State-specificdeath rates for 2025 are not yet available from the CDC. Historically,Louisiana and its southeasternneighbors have the highest death rates in the country. In 2024, Louisiana had the eighthhighest death rateinthe U.S. behind Mississippi,West Virginia, Oklahoma, Kentucky,

Arkansas,Tennessee and Alabama

Since2000,Louisiana’s death ratewas: n 920.5 deaths per100,000 in 2000; n 932.4 in 2001; n 933.5 in 2002; n 944.9 in 2003; n 927.3 in 2004; n 969.2 in 2005; n 930.7 in 2006; n 913.4 in 2007; n 929.3 in 2008; n 896.8 in 2009; n 897.1 in 2010; n 893.7 in 2011; n 919.3 in 2012; n 935.3 in 2013; n 943.8 in 2014; n 936.3 in 2015; n 946.4 in 2016; n 866.3 in 2017; n 870.9 in 2018;

n 857 in 2019; n 1,044.7 in 2020; n 1,094.6 in 2021; n 974.7 in 2022; n 920.8 in 2023; n 893.2 in 2024.

Since 2000, the national death rate was: n 854 deaths per 100,000 in 2000; n 848 in 2001; n 849.5 in 2002; n 843.9 in 2003; n 818.8 in 2004; n 828.4 in 2005; n 813.1 in 2006; n 804.6 in 2007; n 812.9 in 2008; n 794.5 in 2009; n 799.5 in 2010; n 807.3 in 2011; n 810.2 in 2012; n 821.5 in 2013; n 823.7 in 2014;

n 844 in 2015; n 849.3 in 2016; n 731.9 in 2017; n 723.6 in 2018; n 715.2 in 2019; n 835.4 in 2020; n 879.7 in 2021; n 798.8 in 2022; n 750.5 in 2023; n 722.1 in 2024 n 689.2 in 2025. The 2025 mortality data fromthe CDCisprovisional, and is not finalized.The report fromthe center identified limitations: the timelinessof death certificate submissions varies by jurisdiction, race categories mayhavebeen misclassified and the methodologyofpopulation estimates varied between 2024 and 2025.

Source:Centers forDisease Controland Prevention

BY MARGARET DELANEY Staff writer

Registration is open for afree men’shealth clinic at Pennington Biomedical Research Center in Baton Rouge from 7a.m. to 1p.m on Aug. 22. The clinic, at 6400 Perkins Road, will provide health screenings, demonstration, exhibits, activities, panels and giveaways for men ages 18 and up. Preregistration is recommended at www.pbrc.edu/mhs.

NewOrleans hospital begins Summer ToyDrive

Ochsner Children’shas launched its annual Summer ToyDrive, collecting new toys to help brighten the hospital experience for patients throughout the year

The community is invited to donate items at designated drop-off locations, helping ensure children have access to comfort, play and moments of joy when they need them most.

Accepted donations include

brand-newtoys in original packaging as well as books, games, puzzles and craft kitsfor infants throughteens. To protect the health andsafety of patients,the programcannot accept stuffed animalsorcloth items. Donations arecollected at various New Orleans locations that can be found on Ochsner Health’s website.

Cancerresearchers complete LCRC program

Tencollege undergraduates and postgraduates presented their research projects after an immersive eight-week programdesigned to supportthe next generation of Louisiana’s cancer researchers. The Louisiana Cancer Research Center’s SummerUndergraduate Cancer Research Experience selects agroup of students andassigns them afaculty mentor from LSU Health NewOrleans,Tulane University School of Medicine or XavierUniversity of Louisiana.

Thestudents’ research projects include:

n Saanvi Gambhira, Temple University,studiedgene expression using bioinformatics anddatafrom breast cancer cell lines with mentor Dr.Victoria Belancio at Tulane Cancer Center

n SohanGummadi, Seton Hall University,investigated the impact of obesityonprostate cancer in Black and Whitemales, working in the labofhis mentor,Dr. Hari Koul of LSU HealthNew Orleans.

n Handerson Hasseth, Tulane University,researched endocrine receptor positive breast cancer withtwo LCRCfacultymentors at Tulane School of Medicine: Dr Matt Burowand Dr.Jorge Belgodere.

n Jake Hebert,Louisiana State University,researched theCD36 proteinfor therapeuticoptions against triple-negative breastcancerinthe labofmentorDr. FokhrulHossain at LSU Health New Orleans

n Emily Jemison, Duke University,analyzed the EquityJustice Index for the Louisiana Tumor

Registry under the mentorship of Dr.Xiaocheng Wu,the director of the LSU School of Public Health.

n NyEla Pete, XavierUniversity of Louisiana, conducted spatial massspectrometry analysis of pancreatic cancer biomarkers in the lab of Dr.Jiri Adamec at LSU Health New Orleans.

n Rohit Srivastava, BaylorUniversity,analyzed the CISD1 protein for the development of potential new therapies fortriple-negative breast cancer with mentorDr. QiangShen at LSUHealth New Orleans

n Sebastian Salm, Emory University,assisted programdirector Dr Charles Wood of LSU Health New Orleans, with research detecting Kaposi Sarcoma herpes virus in tissuesfor downstream testing.

n Laniyah Thurman, Louisiana State University,worked in the lab of Dr.JenniferFang at the Tulane School of Science and Engineering, studying vascular biology and the growth of tumor blood vessels.

n Imille Woodard, Grambling StateUniversity,analyzed data on potentiallinks between e-cigarette

use and academic performance at theLouisiana Tobacco ControlInitiativeunder the direction of mentor and TCI director Dr.Michael Celestin of LSUHSC School of Public Health.

Clinical study eyes weight loss drugsfor youth Pennington Biomedical Research Center is accepting potential candidates foraclinical study with compensation of up to $775. ThePhITT studyistesting whether aweight loss medication calledphentermine works better than aplacebo to help teenagers with obesity lose weight.

To qualify forthis research study,participants should: n Be 12 to 17 years old, n Have aBMI at or above 95th percentile or 30 or greater BMI HealthNotes is an occasional listing of healthhappenings aroundLouisiana.Have something you’d liketoshare? Contact us at margaret. delaney@theadvocate.com.

Molly Kimball RD,CSSD

‘THEYGOHANDINHAND’

Louisianadoctors discussrelationshipbetween poor sleep, temporomandibularjoint disorders

BY MATTHEW HAINES

Contributing writer

The potentialdamage from poor sleephas become increasingly known —ithas been linked to dementia, heart disease and more. The causes of these sleep issues are often attributed to boogeymen such as increased stress,the consumption of coffee or alcohol in the evening, and screen time before bed.

While those are part of thestory, many experts are flagginganother common barrier:

Some of this is intuitive: Pain disruptssleep,and poor sleep depletes thebody’s ability to tolerate pain. In other ways, the linkbetween sleep and craniofacial discomfort is not so obvious.

Billings recalled onepatient who, during asleep test, stopped breathing for more than10seconds37times in one hour

“If that happened four times, that would be considered‘normal,’” Billings said,“but this guy basically suffocates 40 times everyhour. To saythat’sruining his sleep is an understatement.”

equipmentmanager,morethan one-third of adults in North and South America are afflicted with Sleep-Disordered Breathing. It is estimated that more than 8in10individuals are unaware they suffer from sleep apnea.

Billings said thatactions many find common— icecream before bed, pizza andbeer with friends, or an evening espresso —all causeinflammation that lead to obstructed breathing, also triggering cortisol dumps that have the effectof winding us up before sleep,instead of allowing us to winddown.

your sleep, your mood, andyour long-term health.”

Sleepsolutions

breathing-related sleep issues.

“Honestly,” he said, “what usually brings them in is their partner eventually says, ‘Hey,doyou know you stop breathing alot while you sleep?’”

An appointment with acraniofacial sleepspecialist will likely begin with aconsultation and then an examination of the nose to identify potential breathing issues.

“You can’ttalk about poorrest without talking about craniofacial pain,” said Dr.Terry Billings, aMetairie dentist, referring to discomfort in the head, face, neck and jaw.Billings has been focused on craniofacial pain and its relationshiptosleep for more than 20 years. “They go hand in hand.”

In fact, in September 2024, the Journal of Oral &Facial Pain and Headache reported that 83% of patients with chronic craniofacial pain experience sleep issues.

Causingabad night’ssleep

Anasalexamination showed that the inside ofthe patient’s nose was inflamed, making it harder to breathe.Billings suggested he cut backonfoods that contribute to this inflammation, including sugar andbread

What followed was 21/2 weeks of improved sleep.

“He told me he was feeling so good that he decided it was probably OK if he hada Whopper and Cokeone night as areward,” Billings recalled.“Within 30 minutes of themeal, he noticed he could no longer breathethrough his nose!”

According to ResMed, amedical

This, Billingssaid, is where avicious cycle leads back to craniofacial pain.

“Our brain’snumber one objective while we sleep is to keep us breathing,”hesaid.“So if youcan’t breathe through your nose, your brain willhave you move your jaw, for example,toopenthe airway through your mouth.”

“Whenyou do thatall night, your muscles areoverworked and tired,” Billings added. “Your posture changesand strains your head andneck andyou endupwithissues like temporomandibular joint disorders that can lead to jaw issues,teethgrinding, headaches, migraines andmore.Itdestroys

Deep sleep,also known as slowwave sleep, is the stage of rest when your brain and body do their most essential work: releasing growth hormones that buildand repair bones, tissue, andmuscle; producing proteins that strengthen your immune system and control inflammation;converting shortterm memories into longer-term ones; reducing the risk of obesity, Type 2diabetes,and heartdisease by controlling sugar and blood pressure;and cleaning the brain wastethatcan lead to Alzheimer’s and other causes of dementia.

“Notsolving these sleep issues negatively impacts everythinginyour life,” saidDr. Paul Spring, aMetairiebased ear,nose, and throat specialist of almost 30 years. “Whatever maladiesyou have, it compounds those things, but it also makes you moreirritable and less productive.”

Spring said that mostpeopledon’t even realize they are suffering from

Possiblemitigations couldinclude minor surgery to solve anatomical obstructions to proper breathing, or the design of acustomized oral orthopedic that can correct the position of the patient’sjaw or teeth. CPAP machines are still widely used, though sometimes unpopular because of the cumbersome mask. In recent decades, the less intrusive Inspire sleep apnea device has gained approvalbythe FDA,acting as apacemaker that keepsyour airway open duringsleep by sending tiny electrical pulses to the nerves that control your tongue.

Whatever solution is right for thepatient, Spring said, will likely change their life.

He said,“Themostcommon thing Ihear from individuals when we solve their sleep problem is that they can’tbelieve they lived for so long in so muchdiscomfort.”

Research:ExperimentalAlzheimer’s drug showspromise

Treatmenttargets brainprotein

BY LAURAN NEERGAARD Associated Press

WASHINGTON An experimental drug might help slow early Alzheimer’sdisease in amarkedly different way than today’streatments —bylowering levels of a brain protein called tau, researchers reported on July 14.

Tauisone part of atoxic duo fuelingAlzheimer’s, but priorattempts to develop drugs that can target the protein havefailed. Two Alzheimer’sdrugs, lecanemab and donanemab, try to clear buildup of the better-known amyloid protein and can modestly slow cognitive decline.

Thenew findings suggestBiogen’sdiranersen didmorethan lower tau levels. The study of about 400 people foundsigns thatitalso slowed cognitive decline, in one small subset enough to be comparable to amyloid therapy,according to results presented at the Alzheimer’sAssociation International Conference in London. Biogen is planning alarger study to try to prove the drug’sbenefit. “This is really quite promising if it were to hold up” in that next-step

testing, said JessicaLangbaum of the BannerAlzheimer’sInstitute in Phoenix, who wasn’tinvolved with Biogen’sstudy

“This is early days,” cautioned Dr.Reisa Sperling of Mass General Brigham, who also wasn’tinvolved in the study.But “I think it will reinvigorate interest and investment in lots of tau mechanisms, and the field needs that.”

It’sone ofmultiple novelattempts to fight themind-destroyingdisease, includinga possible tau vaccine, an experimental heart drug that might do double dutyfor some peopleathighrisk of Alzheimer’s, andways to helpmedicines more easily get across the so-called blood-brain barrier.

Newapproachesneeded

It’snot clearexactly what causes Alzheimer’s,which affectsmore than 7million Americans andtens of millions worldwide. Thatsticky amyloid protein startsbuilding up to form plaques in the brain about twodecadesbeforesymptoms appear.But amyloid aloneisn’t enough to cause Alzheimer’s. Many scientists believe that amyloid buildup eventually triggers an abnormalformoftau to form tangles in neurons,setting offsymptoms Diranersen is what’scalled an antisense oligonucleotide that doesn’t

attack taubuildup but instead instructs atau-producing gene to produce less.

“If youlower tau production, you arelowering the amount of the abnormal tauthat needs to be cleared by themicroglia, by theclearance mechanism in the brain.And so you are enabling the normalclearance mechanism to have more capacitytoclear thetau,” saidDr. Cath Mummery, of University College London, who led the new study Today’santi-amyloiddrugs are given through thebloodstream via infusions or injections. Diranersen is injected into the fluid surrounding the spinal cord, astraighter path to the brain.

Biogen’s drug missed goal

Biogen’sstudy included people with mild cognitive impairment or mild Alzheimer’s, randomly assigning them to different doses of diranersen or aplacebo. In May Biogen and partner Ionis Pharmaceuticals announced that the lowest dose —given every six months —had the strongest effect.That was acounterintuitive surprise andmeantthe study didn’tmeet its planned goal of showing that higher doses brought greater benefits Still, scientists had been anxiously awaiting details about how much that twice-a-year spinal shot

really helped. Five of six different braintests showed diranersen recipients’ memory and other cognitive abilities still worsened but more slowly than those given dummy shots, Mummery said. In one test of thelowestdose, thattranslated to a26% reduction in cognitivedecline— “approximately the same” change seen in earlier tests of amyloid drugs, she said. Side effects included injection site pain anda temporary stateof confusion that could appear afew days after theshot and last about a week,she said. Butthere were no signs of brain inflammation, which can affect recipients of anti-amyloid drugs.

Researcherstargettau

The UniversityofCalifornia, San Francisco, last week opened a firstof-its-kind study known as the Alzheimer’s TauPlatform.Funded by the National Institutes of Health,it will test avariety of experimental anti-tau therapies against and in combination with today’samyloid treatments. First up is avaccine calledAADvac1 designedtotrain the immune system to recognize and fight aspecificworrisomeportion of the tau protein, said UCSF’s Dr.Adam Boxer The “platform” approach will expand to locations around the

country,allow addition of other tau drugs to test and include people with Alzheimer’s-related protein buildup who aren’t yetshowing symptoms, he said.

AttackingAlzheimer’s

Researchers toldthe Alzheimer’smeeting that an experimental cholesterol-lowering drug called obicetrapib might do more than help heart health. They’re exploring if it also might lowerbuildup of Alzheimer’s-related proteins in people who carry agenetic risk for the disease. Why? That gene, called APOE4, also affects how the body processes cholesterol. Obicetrapib maker NewAmsterdam Pharma plansto begin astudy soon to test if the drug’scholesterol effects also can mitigate the Alzheimer’srisk in people carrying one or two copies of that gene. Companies also are trying to get Alzheimer’sdrugs into the brain faster and at higher volumes by penetrating theliningmeant to protectthe brain from harm Denali Therapeutics’ CEO Ryan Watts describes it as “hitching aride”withironthatnaturally gets intothe brain. Hiscompany is pursuing drugs that target tau and amyloid using that “transport vehicle” technology

Billings

Spring

GETTy IMAGESPHOTO

By HOPE CONNOLLy

Awoman winces from grinding her teethwhile sleeping. Dr.Terry Billings,a Metairie dentist,saysthat youcan’t talk about poor rest without discussing discomfortinthe head,face, neck and jaw.

Advancing care,improvinglives: Theimpact of research at Ochsner BatonRouge

By Amanda McElfresh amcelfresh@theadvocate.com

Thisstory is broughttoyou by OchsnerHealth.

Each day, physicians areworking to answer some of medicine’sbiggest questions: Cananew therapyhelp patients recover morequickly?Can it reduce debilitating symptoms? Canitprevent injuries or diseaseprogression?

Thesequestions driveagrowing portfolio of clinical research at Ochsner BatonRouge. From helping people resume activelifestyles to advancing liver diseasetreatmentand reducing hospital visits forpatientswith chronic lung disorders, the results areimproving recovery times,enhancingquality of lifeand bringing new therapies to patients

“The term we useinsports medicine is ‘return to performance.’ Some people want to get back to athletic competition. Some want to run or lift weights again. No mattertheir goals,wewantto getthem back to ahigh levelofperformance, not just the bareminimum,”said Jeremy Burnham, MD,sports medicine surgeon, Ochsner Orthopedics and Sports Medicine InstituteatEliteTraining Complex–Burbank.

Dr.JeremyBurnhamreviewsimagingwithapatientatOchsnerBatonRouge,whereheleadsclinicalresearchaimedatimprovingorthopediccareandrecovery

their injury risks, whether surgeons and OR staff experiencemorefatigue andpain after wearing alead apron duringsurgeries and howphysicaltherapycompliance affectsoutcomes

Dr.Burnham said the data from these studies canguide clinical decisions and prevention strategies,whethersomeone is ateen gymnast, aprofessionalfootballplayer or aretired adult who enjoys dailywalks around the neighborhood

“People expect to have much more mobilityatall ages.Thatdrives us to find newtechnologies to keep people healthy and moving,”Dr. Burnhamsaid. “Wetreat people from ages 10 to 95 who are activeatall differentlevels.Wetry to meet the patientwhere theyare and helpthemachieve theirindividual goals.”

JeremyBurnham,MD SportsMedicineSurgeon, OchsnerOrthopedicsandSports MedicineInstituteatElite TrainingComplex–Burbank

“Thatsets the bar higher forus,”Dr. Burnhamsaid. “It’sabout curiosity,askingquestions and notbeing hesitanttodoresearch. That is the cultureweare building here.”

Keeping patientsmoving through smarter orthopedic research

Notlong ago, Dr.Burnham and his team at Elite TrainingComplex broughtagirls’ soccer team –about 30 players –for extensivetesting at the complex’s3D motion capturelab.Using specialized cameras, force platesand advanced computeranalysis theyexamined each player’smovementpatterns to identifywhich were morelikely to suffer an ACLtear, oneofthe most common and debilitating knee injuries,requiring up to ayear of recovery

“One major research domain isabout preventing injuries.Thatisthe holy grailand has the highest upside,”Dr. Burnhamsaid “ACL injury research has already told us howsomeone is morelikely to have atear if their knee or hip is in acertain position.Our work nowisabout applyingthatresearch to injury prevention. We are nevergoing to eliminate every injury,but if we canmakeameaningful reduction, thatisa huge win.”

Ochsner BatonRougewas also aleader in a10-year study on patellofemoral pain syndrome, which is pain at the frontofthe knee,aroundthe kneecap. It showedthat people with the condition were morelikely to tear an ACL. Additional studies have exploredhow highschool athletes’ lowerextremitymovementsaffect

Dr.Burnham and his team’s other research involves helpingpeople recoverfasterafter being injured. Increasingly,thatmeans harnessing the patient’sown biological power, usingsoftermaterials that better mimic bones and tissue,and using minimally invasiveproceduresto reduce disruption in the body

In one of the most promising clinicalstudies,Ochsner BatonRougesurgeonshaveusedamniotic tissue in ACL reconstruction. The tissue is filled with growth factorsand has been shown to help patients heal from woundsand othertypes of surgeries

“Our interim analysis showsthatpatients who received the additional amniotic tissue recovered20to30% faster and moreeffectively after ACLsurgery than patients who did not.Ifthatanalysisholds it shows thatthismethod cangivepatients atremendous edgeintheirrecovery,” Dr Burnham said.

One keyprinciple in orthopedics at Ochsner BatonRouge is to restoreaperson’s natural anatomy after an injury as much as possible. Thathas guideda recentclinical trialusingOSSIOfiber.Thisimplantmaterial gradually integrates with aperson’snatural bone and has shownearly promiseinrepairingfractures andstrengthening weak bones

“Thiskind of research helpsusmove beyond assumptions andtowardevidence,”Dr. Burnhamsaid.“Insteadofrelying only on whathas traditionally been done, studies like this allowustocarefully assess whether an innovationtruly benefits patients in ameaningful way.”

HrishikeshV.Samant,MD Hepatologist OchsnerHealthCenter-O’Neal

Newresearch gives hope, potential relieftorareliver disease patients

“While doctorshavelong studied common liver cancer and other liver diseases,therehas historically been lessresearch around rare diseases thataffect theliver,” said Hrishikesh V. Samant, MD,hepatologist, Ochsner Health Center –O’Neal. That is changingatOchsner Baton Rouge, which is becominganational destination forbreakthroughclinicaltrials involving patients from Louisianaand surrounding states.

“Chronic liver disease leads to significant symptoms thataffect aperson’squalityof life;yet,wehavelongstruggledwiththerapies and research. We have stepped into that space, and OchsnerBatonRougehas become aleader in the state conducting studiesfocused on rare liver diseases,”said Dr.Samant.

One keystudy is thefive-year VLX-601 trial, which is evaluating anew therapy to treatsevereitching associatedwith primary biliary cholangitis,orPBC,a chronic autoimmune liverdisease.The trial is alsoexamining howitching mayimpact PBC’sprogression.

“Itching canhaveamajor impact on aperson’ssleep and daily activities.Our research is focused on finding betterwaystohelppatients manageand control it,” Dr.Samant said.“Anytime we start atrial, we makesure the patientsunderstand theprocess,the potential benefits and the potentialrisks. Most patients with liver diseaseare interested in a clinical trial. They arelooking forrelief, and we hope research likethiscan providethat.

FERROCLEAR, asecond investigation at Ochsner BatonRouge, is focusedonpatients with homeostaticironregulatory gene-relatedhereditaryhemochromatosis,orHFEHHH. The common genetic diseasecauses excess iron buildup in thebody, potentially damaging vitalorgans including theliver

“Our work nowisabout proof-of-concept medications.The overallgoal is to improve howthe diseaseismanaged overtime and howpatients canbettercontrol their iron levels,perhaps even with just atablet,” Dr Samantsaid.

As Ochsner BatonRouge expands itsresearch, the hepatology department is working on adding studies focused on fattyliver diseases,liver cancer and other conditions thatare prevalent in Louisiana

“Ochsner hasalwayssupported research and understandsthatitisateamapproach,” he said. “You cannot be asuccessful researcher as one physician. Youneed other clinicians,nurses, pharmacists,coordinators and other departments. We arepoised to be successful herebecausewehavethatframework. Thatlets us focus on the work that will help patients lead better lives.”

Targeted therapies redefine expectations forCOPD care

Chronic obstructivepulmonary disease, or COPD,isaleading causeofemergency room visits in theUnitedStateswith many large hospitals treatingdozens of patients eachday.The disease causes restricted air flowand increased mucusproduction, making it difficultfor patients to breathe, especiallyduring flare-ups

Yet, it hasbeen only in the past decade thatresearchershaveidentified inflammatory pathways involved in certain forms of COPD. Thesediscoveries have opened the door forstudies on targeted antibody therapiesalready used in asthma treatmentthatmay also benefit some COPD patients

Asscienceimproves, Ithinktheresearch processeswilloccurfaster andbringcuresmuch closertopatients.It’s veryrejuvenatingand inspiringtobeapartof thatprogressrightherein BatonRouge.

AlexanderK.Mulamula,MD Pulmonologist OchsnerHealthCenter-O’Neal

Ochsner Health Center –O’Neal. “Historically,wesaiditwas standardfor someone with COPD to have four or fiveflare-ups in ayear. Now, we aresaying we need to think about prescribing thema biologic –anewer,targetedtherapythatfocuses on specific molecules or pathways involved in COPD flare-ups or progression– if theyhaveone or twoflare-ups per year.”

Multipleclinical trials at OchsnerBaton Rougeare exploring whether certaininjectablemedications caninterrupt the inflammatory processesthattrigger COPD progression andimprovelong-term lung function

The OBERON andPROSPERO studies are evaluatinga first-in-classmonoclonal antibody forpeople with certain forms of moderate to severe COPD, while SEABREEZE evaluateshow well anext-generationhuman monoclonal antibodyworks during asevere COPDflare-up.

“The OBERON studyhas been very promising. We have hadsix patientswho showed improved lungfunction,”Dr. Mulamula said. “Thesestudiesare using newscience to help us betterunderstand howtotreat COPDpatients with certain traits.Weare already seeinghow beneficial thesemedications canbe.”

Twomorestudies at Ochsner Baton Rouge, VIGILANTand ENDURA, areexploring thepotential impactsofearlier treatment andadd-on medications

AlexanderK.Mulamula,MD Pulmonologist OchsnerHealthCenter-O’Neal

“This research is happening at the same time thatdoctors arechangingtheir expectations about qualityoflifefor COPD patients,”said Alexander K. Mulamula,MD, pulmonologist

“Anytime youcan stabilize someone who has chronic respiratoryfailureand givethem abetterquality of life,itchangeseverything for them,” Dr.Mulamula said “Asscience improves, Ithink the research processeswill occurfasterand bringcures much closer to patients. It’s very rejuvenating and inspiring to be apart of thatprogress righthereinBaton Rouge.

OchsnerHealthistheleadingnonprofithealthcareproviderinLouisiana,MississippiandacrosstheGulfSouth, deliveringexpertcareatits47hospitalsandmorethan370healthandurgentcarecenters.Tolearnmoreabout howOchsnerempowerspeopletogetwellandstaywell,visitochsner.org

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LOUISIANA

‘WEBELIEVE IN REDEMPTION’

LouisianaParoleProject pavesa path from prison release

BY JOYHOLDEN Staff writer

On June 9, 2016, Andrew Hundley was packing his things to leave the Louisiana State Penitentiary after 19 years.Other men serving life sentences gathered to tell him goodbye. He was 34. They were in their 50s, 60s and 70s. Hundley apologized for leaving them

Twomen walked him to the door

He said they toldhim, “We know that you’re going to set an example, and you’regoing to make it easier for the rest of us.”

Hundley took those words to heart.

“I couldn’tturn back the hands of time andundo the harm that I’d done in my youth,” Hundley said, “but I could better myself and better the lives of the people that Iwas living with in my prison community.”

Hundley was convictedof second-degree murder in the 1997 slaying of 14-year-old Terri Elizabeth Pitre when he was 15 years old.

“The parole boards saw that Iwasn’tthe same person almost two decades before,” Hundley said, “and they thought Iwas worthy of a second chance.”

On his ride home, his sister asked him what was next.

“I told her,‘Ihaveto figure out away to help the people I’ve left behind,’ ”Hundley said.

Twomonths later he started Louisiana Parole Project with two LSU law professors. In 10 years,the organization has helped 703 paroleescome home and adjusttolife on the outside.

Firstbut notthe last Hundley,credits Henry Montgomery for setting him on the road to freedom and a post-incarcerationlife dedicated to helping others. The twoserved time together in

Louisiana StatePenitentiary at Angola, where juvenile lifers lived in close proximity

“Henry is such apart of my life,”Hundleysaid. “I told myself,‘I’m gonna workhere until Iget Henry Montgomeryout,’ —and now it’s acareer because of Henry.”

TheSupreme Court’s2012 Miller v. Alabama decision found mandatorylife without parolefor juvenile offenders unconstitutional —opening the door for juveniles to seek parole if they could prove they hadchanged With Montgomery’s case, Montgomery v. Louisiana, the Supreme Court upheld and solidified the decision by ruling it retroactive on Jan. 25, 2016. Hundleywas the first person in Louisiana sentenced to alife sentence as ajuvenile to be grantedparole. Montgomerywasn’tparoleduntilNov 17, 2021, at theage of 75. Hundley said 70 juvenile lifers were released from prison before Montgomery, who hadbeen sentenced to life at the age of 17 in 1963. Hundredsofother men and women were serving life sentences for crimes committed when they were children in Louisianawhenhewas granted parole in 2016. “I was not the one who had served the most time in prison,” Hundley said. “I wouldn’t say Iwas the most deserving. Iwas just theone that had the pathofleast resistance to get the first parole hearing.

Listening forthe soundof somewhere else

Ihad heard about the hot chocolate at the Prague Main Train Station before Iwent. Aneighbor,a locally famous half-Romani woman in the Slovak village where I lived, told me Icould find the best hot chocolate in the world there.

It’s been decades since Iwent and had it, but Istill remember its rich flavor —I’ve never tasted anything like it before or since.

The closest I’ve come wasadding cocoa powder and melted good chocolate to sweetened condensed milk, then carefully heating it Adab will do ya.

As good as that hot chocolate was, it wasnot the best thing about the Prague Main Train Station.

The best thing wasthe destination sign —the one that told where the next trains were headed and from which platform to board.

I’ve never seen another sign like it. Iunderstand they replaced it with an electronic version afew years ago. But fordecades, they used what wascalled asplit-flap display,asensory marvel of digital electromechanics.

At various intervals, the whole sign would begin to change, line by line, and all these little cards would half-flip —showing, for the briefest of moments, an array of European destinations before landing on one.

Brno on platform 7. Parížon platform 11. Víden on 2. Budapešt on 5. Mnichov on 3, and Berlin on 14.

Iwould stand and watch it, sipping hot chocolate, dreaming of Paris, Berlin and everywhere in between and beyond.

It performed an incredible alphabetical dance, but even better than watching it was listening to it. The clitter-clatter of Brno to Budapešt was the mostmesmerizing sound I’ve ever heard. It wasthat near whisper of sound an old clock radio made, going from 10:59 to 11:00 on steroids. It wasn’tloud, but it felt like “sound travel,” inviting me to imagine where Imight go next.

Lately,I’ve had asimilar feeling playing agame on my phone called MapTap —afew moments to consider places Iknow and places Idon’tand try to find them on amap.

For morethan ahundred days, I’ve played it each morning with

See PROJECT, page 4Y

Project’sbeginnings Hundley didn’tknow where to begin hisnew mission,so he reached out to his lawyer, LSU law professor Keith Nordyke, and anotherlaw professor,Robert Lancaster,for help on creating anonprofittohelp worthy prisoners win parole. He wanted the organization to give pro-bonolegal representation to juvenile lifers

STAFF PHOTOSByJAVIER GALLEGOS

Re-entrycoordinatorRiana Leverett, left, helps client Gabriel Logan withanissue on his phone during atechnologyliteracy class at the Louisiana ParoleProject office in June.

Client Gabriel Logan, center,helps Shawn Foster during alessonina technology literacy class at theLouisiana Parole Project office in June.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Hundley

ASK THE EXPERTS

Southern professor finds hope in Egypt’s museums

BY HALEY MILLER Staff writer

Dr Haitham Eid leads the Southern University at New Orleans museum studies master’s program, the only one of its kind in Louisiana.

In April, he completed a speaking tour in Egypt as part of the prestigious U.S. Department of State Speaker Program. He gave keynote addresses and lectures at the Grand Egyptian Museum, the American University in Cairo and the Arab Academy for Science, Technology, and Maritime Transport. He also joined roundtable discussions with cultural leaders, scholars and professionals. This interview has been edited for length and clarity

On your speaking tour, what contemporary issues in museum studies did you highlight?

Museums are now envisioning themselves as civic institutions that bring people together, create more peaceful communities and a more peaceful world. The world is facing an interconnected polycrisis, from wars to pandemics to social justice issues, and all of these compound and compel the civic society to act Museums are taking this responsibility and trying to be a space for communities to come together to build cohesion and understanding between the community and the world. That was most of the discussion I had on my speaking tour Of course, there were more specific issues related to Egypt and the museums in Egypt — a wonderful tour to the Grand Egyptian Museum — so I was fortunate

to be a part of this. Why was Egypt an apt place to deliver your lectures on these themes? This is a program sponsored by the U.S. Department of State, the Speaker

Program. I did a few programs with them before, one with Egypt as well that was last year, another one virtually with Libya. I was born and raised in Egypt, so of course I speak Arabic.

I’ve been here for 23, 24 years in the U.S., so I have these experiences from Egypt to the United States, and I can speak to both cultures, both institutions. I had a discussion with a

Q&A WITH DR. HAITHAM EID PROFESSOR AT SOUTHERN UNIVERSITy AT NEW ORLEANS

State Department officer, and we coordinated the program to Egypt.

You also participated in some roundtable discussions with professionals and scholars in the museum space.What were your biggest takeaways from them?

I was very inspired by the resilience of museum professionals in Egypt although they suffer from lack of resources, very limited support from governmental organizations. The landscape of museums in Egypt is different from the U.S. We have nonprofit organizations (that) mostly govern museums in the U.S. In Egypt, nearly all museums are governmental organizations, so with lack of resources, funding, it becomes very hard to do your daily work. But the resilience is amazing. The innovation to overcome these obstacles was just very amazing. That’s one of the takeaways regardless of the challenges and the lack of resources, we can create or do great work in our institutions.

Are there any memories that stand out from your time abroad?

I think, when you do these types of programs, one of the things that you need to always maintain is flexibility

One time, I was traveling back from Alexandria to Cairo for a meeting with the director of the Supreme Council of Antiquities. We received a call that he was called for another meeting with the prime minister of

Egypt for something pressing. They wanted to postpone to another day or later in the evening. We had to rework the schedule to do that. With international travel, I think that’s the mindset you need to have, to be flexible, willing to adapt. In another incident, I was supposed to deliver a lecture in English. They gave the instruction that it would be in English. I went to the venue; it was a university in Aswan. I started speaking in English. I felt like people were not very comfortable. I was like, do you prefer Arabic? They said yes. So, I delivered the entire lecture in Arabic. What other thoughts did you have from this experience that you want to share with your students and colleagues?

The history, the culture, the sights in Egypt are just profound and inspiring. I always advise people, especially students, to travel to Egypt if they can. I can be biased about this, but it’s truly transformational. I try to take some of the students to Egypt when possible through a study abroad program we have here at SUNO. I’m excited that our program, and myself, started this study abroad program a few years ago. We’re trying to go to Egypt in October Also, I lead community trips different from the study abroad trips, just trying to bring these two countries together and these cultures together to build more understanding.

Journey’s biggest song is actually about Christian faith

BY JIM HARRINGTON

The Mercury News (TNS)

SAN JOSE, Calif

There’s a deeper meaning to “Don’t Stop Believin’” — one that might not be widely evident to the some of the fans who hear the Journey anthem played at sporting events and on classic rock radio

The song, which was released on Journey’s seventh studio album “Escape” in 1981, is actually a song based on Christian faith and dealing directly with the Holy Spirit, says the song’s co-author Jonathan Cain Cain says that, if one really thinks about it, the song is actually about the Holy Spirit.

“We don’t stop believing,” Cain said in an interview with christianpost.com. “We never do.” Cain who co-wrote the “Don’t Stop Believin’” with fellow Journey members Neal Schon and Steve Perry (who is no longer in the band) — says that connection to Christian faith can be heard in one of the song’s best-known lyrics

“And when we say ‘hold on to that feeling,’ that might just be the Holy Spirit,” he says. Neither Schon nor Perry have commented on the matter Cain, who has embarked

RISHER

Continued from page 1y

on a solo career in Christian music and plans to leave Journey after the Bay Area band’s current farewell tour, says that the song was originally inspired by an encouraging talk that he had with

his father that addressed God’s “vision” for the songwriter

“I wrote the song based on what my father had said to me when I was going to quit the music business or come

home and regroup,” Cain remembers in the interview with The Christian Post.

“I was in L.A. and I said,

‘Should I stay or should I go?’ He said, ‘No, you’ve got to stay Don’t stop believing.

God has a vision for you.’

“He was referring back to a fire that I was in when I was 8 years old, where 93 children died. And my father prophesized and said, ‘You were saved for music. I be-

lieve the Lord saved you for making music. And I’m going to get behind that. This was 1958 — dads didn’t do that They said get a real job.” Instead of getting a “real job,” Cain would pursue a career in music and eventually land a gig with Journey in the early ’80s.

“I went straight into the studio with them and created the ‘Escape’ album in 1981,” Cain said in the interview It sold 9 million copies So, my dad’s prophecy came true.

“Only God can do that. Only the Lord — the hand of the Lord — could take an accordion player from Chicago and put him in Steve Perry’s living room to write ‘Don’t Stop Believin.’” That’s pretty incredible. That’s kind of miracle stuff, you know?” Cain and Journey bring their Final Frontier Tour to the Chase Center in San Francisco on Nov 28. Journey is also playing Sept 17 at Adventist Health Arena in Stockton. Visit ticketmaster com for tickets and other information.

The current Journey lineup features Cain (keyboards, guitar, backing vocals), Schon (lead guitar), Arnel Pineda (lead vocals), Deen Castronovo (drums, vocals), Jason Derlatka (keyboards, vocals) and Todd Jensen (bass, vocals).

feeling of realizing how vast everything is. India is huge! China is huge! Africa is enormous!” he said “It’s also extremely humbling. You think you should know where, say, the Philippines are, but once you’re required to put a pin on a map, you realize you may not know at all.” He’s right. Without borders, even familiar cities go missing.

One group of “friends” I play the game with daily is my younger daughter and her boyfriend in Denver They say they’ve become quite competitive, leading them to study maps independently My friend James McGuire in Chicago says that MapTap is a morning routine that doesn’t make him feel bad about looking at his phone. He also likes the trivia blurbs tied to each spot, but what surprised him more was what the game has revealed about his blind spots. We both use rivers and natural landmarks to find

places we’re familiar with, but Russia and China don’t have the same easily recognizable hints for us. He also plays Wordle every morning with his college roommate and friends a habit he’s kept up for years. We put both games in the same category: small rituals that keep us tethered to people we don’t see enough. I tracked down John Donham, MapTap’s creator He says the game is a labor of love.

Donham had the idea in 2008 but didn’t begin building it until 2023. Last year about 3,000 people played. Today, more than 2

million do. Part of the game’s charm is the stories Donham and his team attach to each place. “I generally pick the stories first that I think are the strongest. I aim for geographical, gender, cultural and era diversity I have so many favorite stories it will fill any article,” he wrote. Parachuting beavers, for example. When Idaho needed to relocate dozens of beavers into the mountains, they turned them into paratroopers. There’s Cecil Chubb, who bought Stonehenge.

I asked if he had a favorite story about a place, and his answer explains part of why so many people enjoy the game so much. “Human history is so full of all these hopeful, joyful moments,” he wrote. “I don’t know that I could pick one. I think that’s part of why the game exists. Because there are thousands of them.” A thousand miles away, someone I love is dropping a pin on a place we’ve never been, and for a second, I can hear the cards flip. Email Jan Risher at jan. risher@theadvocate.com.

PHOTO PROVIDED By HAITHAM EID

Southern University at New Orleans professor Haitham Eid stands on April 8 in the King Tut Ankh Amun Gallery in front of the Golden Mask of King Tut Ankh Amun at the Grand Egyptian Museum

BAy AREA NEWS GROUP/TNS FILE PHOTO By JOSE CARLOS FAJARDO

Jonathan Cain of Journey performs onstage during San Francisco Fest 2016 at AT&T Park in San Francisco.

Calcasieu Parish authorities tout youth justice program

With MARC, agencies,

BY IZZY WOLLFARTH Contributing writer

In the southwest corner of Louisiana, Calcasieu Parish law enforcement agencies, the juvenile court system and school board are working together to try to break the cycle of incarceration and rewrite the narrative around youth justice.

The collaboration, called the Multi-Agency Resource Center, based in Lake Charles, aims to address the needs of kids between the ages 6 and 17 at the first sign of trouble.

Officers, judges, school officials, or anyone who notices youths in need of extra support, can refer them to the MARC, where they will undergo comprehensive testing to understand the root cause of their harmful behaviors.

They are then connected with a variety of services that best suit their needs, including crisis intervention programs, local counseling, healthcare, education support, child-abuse case management, and even curfew drop-offs by law enforcement.

Calcasieu authorities at MARC say they have created a program that works.

“It’s something that we feel could change the landscape of a lot of work that people are doing in juvenile justice, if they just dare to think a little bit different,” said Anthony Celestine, director of the Calcasieu Parish Office of Juvenile Justice Services and MARC. Since opening in 2011,

MARC has grown into an organization where youths can gain access to needed services all under one roof and avoid falling deeper into the criminal justice system.

The Calcasieu Parish’s Office of Juvenile Justice Services is divided into five departments: administration, a short-term 38-bed detention facility, probation services, family services (Truancy Assessment and Service Center and Families in Need of Services) and MARC. In 2004, Louisiana passed legislation that restructured the youth justice system. Under Act 7, Youth Services officially became its own entity apart from Adult Corrections.

Act 555 mandated the creation of children and youth planning boards in every judicial district across Louisiana. These planning boards provide youths with community-based services and divert them away from both the justice and the foster care systems. Celestine said MARC is

the brainchild of that legislation and remains under the jurisdiction of the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury and the Calcasieu Parish Children and Youth Planning Board.

At its core, MARC is an assessment center, where evidence-based initiatives and screening tools are put at the forefront of youth justice.

MARC’s philosophy revolves around data.

on criminal justice reform, conducted an outcome study of MARC’s services. The study found that case processing times for youths referred to MARC decreased from 17 days to 3.9 days. Referrals overall decreased fivefold and youths’ chances of reoffending decreased from 26% to 12%.

er into the justice system.

“We have become more intentional with making sure that public safety is still forefront,” Campbell said.

“Since 2014, we have had the same criteria in place as we do now, but we also have the cooperation with law enforcement that if it’s a minor offense, they’re not seeking detention.”

“Whenever you look at an assessment center, you look at a process It seems very amazing, but it’s kind of like pulling the curtain back at Oz when you see it,” said Joshua Campbell, MARC’s assistant director “There’s just commonsense practices there.”

Two years after the center’s opening, the Vera Institute of Justice, a New Yorkbased nonprofit that focuses

So far this year, 31 youths have been booked into the detention center between every agency, according to MARC’s data.

MARC also forecast that approximately 64 youths in total will be admitted to the detention center this year, which would be down from the 115 admitted last year

MARC calculates this number using their data forecasts, which measures the number of detention booksins so far by the number of days left and passed in 2026.

Since opening, MARC has served 22,486 youths, providing 46% with immediate support, diverting 88% from formal processing and halting 39% from entering deep-

MARC is open from 8 a.m. to midnight Monday to Saturday giving families and administrative partners the opportunity to walk in at any point. This also gives families the chance to be involved in every step of their child’s care.

“When families are able to stay in the driver’s seat, we’re seeing more from them as far as the collaboration success and actually being able to get something in place that truly works for them,” Campbell said.

Campbell said that once youths enter the criminal justice system, families and parents can quickly lose oversight over their children.

“We are trying to get them (parents) to understand that you have total control right now, and we want to make sure it stays that way So, just come in and have a conversation with us,” he said.

MARC was originally supported through a grant from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation’s Louisiana Models for Change; it is also a learning hub site for the Annie E. Casey Foundation.

Both Celestine and Campbell said MARC’s success did not come overnight.

“Everyone’s like, well, how do we get this? I said, well, we got this many, many years, decades ago,” Campbell said. “You have to put something on the books, and you have to start small and potentially get bigger.”

One of MARC’s early discoveries was a result of youth feedback, where youths acknowledged the trauma and harm in being handcuffed and put in a cop car before being dropped off at MARC. This feedback became MARC’s modern-day referral process, granting youths and their families more agency, and law enforcement and local agencies more discretion in how troubled youths are handled.

“I think a lot of folks would prefer to work within silos or work within the parameters of their agency as opposed to realizing the more you share the wealth, the more you share alignment with working with people the better you have opportunities to create outcomes,” Celestine said.

Izzy Wollfarth received her master’s degree in mass communication from Louisiana State University in May She reported and wrote this story with the support of the nonprofit Louisiana Collegiate News Collaborative, an LSU-led coalition of eight universities, funded by the Henry Luce and John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur foundations.

PROVIDED PHOTO

At the first sign of trouble with youths between the ages of 6 and 17, law enforcement officers, school officials and others in Calcasieu Parish can refer the youths here to the Multi-Agency Resource Center in Lake Charles for evaluation.

Celestine Campbell

Tai chi practitioners seek balance, well-being in Beijing

BY MARÍA TERESA HERNÁNDEZ Associated Press

BEIJING — One arm raised and the other lowered, hundreds of people move every morning like birds spreading their wings at the heart of Beijing’s Temple of Heaven.

It’s a movement in tai chi, a physical and philosophical practice developed more than 300 years ago that continues to resonate in China today

“The environment is great and the air is good too,” said Ye Guirong, 64. “You can see we’re surrounded by trees.”

Most practitioners are retirees in their 60s and beyond. Some exercise in groups while a speaker plays relaxing music in the background. Others move silently on their own.

Ye

first encountered tai chi in 2010. Recently retired, she took walks across the city and one day spotted the group she now leads

“I thought it looked good, so I started practicing,” Ye said.

Once a new member joins a group, its leader teaches the basic moves. The apprentice’s progress is reviewed and corrected periodically until a new level is achieved.

Among tai chi’s basic movements are “White Crane Spreads Its Wings,”

Executive Director Andrew Hundley stands at the Louisiana Parole Project office.

in which one arm is raised while the other is lowered, and “Part the Wild Horse’s Mane,” a broad, fluid sequence in which the body weight shifts forward while the arms open gently in front of the chest.

“The movements have been passed down from one instructor to another,” Ye said.

Newcomers keep joining

Ye’s tai chi group, Cypress Grove, has around 30 people and recently welcomed its newest practitioner

Zu Hong, 59, learned a 24-movement routine in

PROJECT

Continued from page 1y

facing parole hearings, and to support them in building successful lives once home.

While Louisiana Parole Project was in its early stages, Hundley attended Baton Rouge Community College, then LSU, graduating with a bachelor’s degree. He went on for his master’s in criminology at Loyola New Orleans, where he currently teaches a criminology course as an adjunct.

Once Louisiana Parole Project got underway, Hundley and his partners decided to expand beyond juvenile lifers to include people who served long prison sentences. The organization started as a boot camp for people coming home. For two to three weeks, the parolees would open bank accounts, get driver’s licenses, get Medicaid, learn how to use smartphones and then go on their way

Hundley said they started renting one apartment and then two, and now they operate 48 properties in Baton Rouge — 12 are transitional houses and 36 are post-transitional properties — for clients to build rental history

“We didn’t think about housing as the significant need it’s become,” Hundley said.

Many clients had outlived their families, had families living in poverty, or didn’t want to return to the environments they’d left. Hundley realized that longer-term housing was a necessity

Hundley said he and his team learned that the multiple-week boot camp idea was not going to work. Their clients needed more assistance and longer support.

“We were just delaying the inevitable,” Hundley said. “We weren’t giving them an opportunity to restart their lives.”

Hundley said the organization encourages the clients to build their foundation and utilize their time in the program. There is no arbitrary set time period for the program. Some people will be in it for several months, and others for a year or longer It’s dependent on each person.

10 years later

Now, through secure hous-

ing and formerly incarcerated staff members who model how to rebuild their lives, Hundley said Louisiana Parole Project is better able to support their clients. They remove barriers so the clients can start working, receive healthcare and earn money

“A big part of what we do is we don’t wait for people to knock at our door saying they need help,” Hundley said. “We don’t wait for people to be in crisis, and to be homeless before they need our help, so we start working with our clients while they’re incarcerated.”

Formerly incarcerated re-entry specialists each case-manage two or three transitional houses, visiting daily to run programming, check in on savings and offer counsel.

Marquis Dalton, a Louisiana Parole Project client who has been home for a year, was 19 when he began his 26-year incarceration. He joined the Forgotten Voices Toastmasters inside Angola, a rehabilitationfocused public speaking group.

Now, he is in the third phase of the Louisiana Parole Project He has a fulltime job and his own place — and is in school to be an HVAC technician

“That transition coming home and having somewhere to go and feel accepted was huge,” Dalton said.

“Having someone like a big brother, Mr Coates, my case manager, holds me accountable. He’s always checking up on me if I need any help.”

Another ally in the organization for Dalton is his attorney, Adreaynne Hutchison, who has been a full-time attorney for Louisiana Parole Project for three years.

Hutchison started with the nonprofit as an LSU law student in its parole and reentry clinic.

After time working in courts, Hutchison returned to Louisiana Parole Project — this is it for her, especially representing clients before the parole board

“Watching what people overcome and hearing about the different things that they’re doing on their path to redemption is so inspiring,” Hutchison said.

“To watch them come home and thrive and flourish. They keep up with me. It’s a constant reinforcement of

about a month. Ye said she’s ready to take on the second set.

“I thought tai chi looked very beautiful,” Zu said. “I wanted to exercise, so I came here to the Temple of Heaven.”

Founded in the 15th century by a Ming dynasty emperor, the site is a complex of religious buildings symbolizing the relationship between heaven and earth.

Its most iconic building is the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests. It served as the ceremonial site where emperors acted as intermediaries between humans and

heaven, offering sacrifices and prayers for good harvests.

Today it serves primarily as a tourist attraction and its surrounding gardens remain open to the public.

Ancient ideas endure

Tai chi carries two meanings in China It refers both to the martial art, or Taijiquan, and to the philosophical ideas behind it, or Taiji.

One of its key concepts is qi, or vital energy, which is understood as a life breath that flows through the body

In traditional Chinese medicine, health depends

on qi circulating through a network of pathways known as meridians, which are believed to connect the body’s organs, limbs and other parts. Acupuncture and other traditional treatments aim to regulate that flow

“Practices like tai chi and qigong are all about activating, regulating or improving the flow of qi in the body,” said James Miller, a professor of Humanities at Duke Kunshan University in China’s Jiangsu province.

“That’s something very key to Daoism (Taoism), but it’s also part of the broader Chinese conception of the body and of the world.”

Beyond the human body, qi is also believed to exist in nature. Mountains and rivers are understood to be animated by its flow

“This is also why it’s traditional to establish temples on mountains,” Miller said.

“They’re understood not just as beautiful or remote places, but because they’re closer to nature.”

Ancient practice lives on

There are several styles of tai chi, each with its own forms.

Ye’s group gathers every morning at 7:40 a.m to practice Yang-style for about an hour and a half. The group rotates through different sets. Some consist of 24, 42 or 48 movements, while others incorporate swords or fans.

“Through exercising, everyone’s health has improved,” Ye said. “Our spirits are especially good.” Chen-style is widely recognized as the oldest form of tai chi. It was developed in the 17th century by Chen Wangting, a military commander who later in life changed paths to embrace spirituality

“He practiced Daoist (Taoist) methods of selfcultivation including meditation,” said Tai Chi master Chen Haitao. “Then one day he experienced a sudden awakening: the meridians throughout his body all opened, his mind became enlightened, and wisdom suddenly emerged.” Chen Wangting’s experience was life-changing, said Chen Haitao. Dreaming of sharing the sensation with others, he found in movement the means to do so. Both the martial art and the philosophy behind tai chi are meant to work together Chen said. The movements provide the method while the philosophy gives them meaning.

“One of the great benefits of Taijiquan is that it is suitable for everyone,” Chen said. “As long as you learn the basic principles correctly and maintain proper alignment, whoever practices it will benefit from it.” AP video journalist Wu Jia contributed to this report.

the why.”

Part of the solution

After 10 years, Louisiana Parole Project has earned broad support from the state, other organizations and donors. Hundley said early skepticism has given way to a proven track record:

n Louisiana’s five-year recidivism rate for the total Department of Corrections population is 43.5%.

n The five-year recidivism rate for parolee releases is 29.4%.

n Louisiana Parole Project’s recidivism rate is less than 3%.

“We don’t have to convince people of our worth anymore,” Hundley said. “We’ve proven formerly incarcerated people are serving an incredible purpose in this work. Redemption’s possible. There’s a way in which you can provide pathways for people to come home, and we’ve proven that model and it’s worked more often than not.”

Hundley said that 90% of people who go to prison are coming home, and they want those people to have support to help the economy, build stability and eliminate recidivism.

Even though clients are from all over the state, they all start their parole journeys in Baton Rouge.

“Louisiana is different,” Hundley said. “I’m Catholic, and I think that culturally we believe in redemption.”

Email Joy Holden at joy holden@theadvocate.com.

STAFF PHOTOS By JAVIER GALLEGOS

Staff attorney Adreaynne Hutchison, left, chats with her former client Marquis Dalton at the Louisiana Parole Project office in June.

Deputy Director Kelly Garrett, right, goes over the program expectations during orientation with new client Roger Beard, who was released from prison two days prior after 21 years incarcerated, at the Louisiana Parole Project office.

New client Dermon Rodriguez looks for business attire that fits him inside the community closet at the Louisiana Parole Project office.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By ANDy WONG

of Heaven in Beijing

SUNDAY, JUlY 26, 2026

CURTIS / by Ray Billingsley

SLYLOCK FOX / by Bob Weber Jr

GET FUZZY / by Darby Conley

HAGAR THE HORRIBLE / by Chris Browne

MOTHER GOOSE AND GRIMM / by Mike Peters

ZIGGY / by Tom Wilson

ROSEBUDS / by Supr Dee

ZITS / by Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman

SALLY FORTH / by Francesco Marciuliano & Jim Keefe

PEARLS BEFORE SWINE /byStephan Pastis

directions: Make a 2- to 7-letter word from the letters in each row Add points of each word, using scoring directions at right. Finally, 7-letter words get 50-point bonus. “Blanks” used as any letter have no point value All the words are in the Official SCRABBLE® Players Dictionary, 5th Edition.

word game

instructions: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed. 3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. 4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed.

todAY's Word — Hornets: HOR-nets: Wasps that usually live in colonies like bees.

Average mark 42 words Time limit 60 minutes Can you find 58 or more words in HORNETS?

ken ken

instructions: 1 -Each rowand each column must contain thenumbers 1through4 (easy) or 1through6 (challenging) without repeating 2 -The numbers within the heavily outlinedboxes, called cages, must combine using thegiven operation (inany order)toproduce the target numbersinthe top-left corners. 3 -Freebies: Fillinthe single-boxcages withthe numberinthe top-left corner

instructions: Sudoku is anumber-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 gridwith several given numbers. The object is to placethe numbers 1to 9in theempty squares so that each row,each column and each 3x3 boxcontains the same number only once. The difficultylevel of the Conceptis Sudoku increases from Monday to Sunday

directions: Complete thegridso that numbers 1–132 connect horizontally, vertically or diagonally

Sudoku

Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis

Brilliant play

South in today’s deal was Levent Imamoglu, from Turkey It is from a pairs competition, where overtricks are very important. Imamoglu might have bid three no-trump directly over North’s two-heart bid, gambling that the diamonds would run and that the opponents could not take five heart tricks, or that they would notleadahearteveniftheycould. He made a conservative threediamond bid and his partner alertly found another bid. Imamoglu ducked the opening king of spades lead, won the spade continuation, and ran off seven diamond tricks. East had a difficult discarding problem and he chose to discard two spades and all four of his hearts, including the king. This was the position:

cashed the queen of

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) Push for what you want. Be the one who steps up, asks for assistance and makes the world a better place. Your enthusiasm and hands-on help will set you apart and make you the go-to person.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Stick to what you know and do best. Don’t get involved in situations that pose a health risk or put you in a vulnerable position. Protect your reputation and your job

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) Consider what you want, how much you know and what you must do to take advantage of an opportunity that

hearts, forcing a spade discard from East, and led his last spade. He discarded the ace of hearts from dummy as East won with the 10. East had to lead away from his king of clubs and Imamoglu had two precious overtricks. Well done!

Tannah Hirsch welcomes readers’ responses sent in care of this newspaper or to Tribune Content Agency inc., 2225 Kenmore Ave., Suite 114, Buffalo, Ny 14207. E-mail responses may be sent to gorenbridge@ aol.com. © 2026 Tribune Content Agency

interests you Conversations will change your perspective.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Look for answers Wanting to accommodate others is honorable; however, if you detect that someone is taking advantage of you, back away Don’t pay for someone else’s mistakes.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Focus on your surroundings and how to make your life easier without overspending. Have patience, and do what you can yourself. Nurture meaningful relationships, but don’t put up with someone’s lack of respect.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Pay more attention to what you have and what you are willing to give up before you negotiate a deal based on emotions. When in doubt, step back and take care of your needs.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Put your energy where it counts, and make lifestyle changes that make you feel good about who you are and what you can do. An opportunity to form a personal or professional partnership is favored.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) Talks will help decide what’s best for you emotionally Listen carefully and don’t be afraid to make your needs

clear if you want them to be met. A job prospect or proposal may sound better than what’s intended.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) Use your imagination and have fun. Social, creative and entertainment pastimes will help you stretch your mind and find interesting outlets for your skills, attributes and heart’s desires.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Refrain from overdoing it or making promises you cannot deliver Trying to buy someone’s attention will lead to being taken advantage of.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) Size up situations, and react accordingly Be ready to hit the reset button if someone you are counting on reneges. Don’t take a risk, but don’t miss out because you are slow getting started.

The horoscope, an entertainment feature, is not based on scientific fact. © 2026 by NEA, inc., dist. By Andrews McMeel Syndication

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) Keep your life simple. Don’t get involved in other people’s business. Concentrate on the things you enjoy doing most Avoid anyone looking for a fight or trying to manipulate you.

SCORING: 24 to 30 points —congratulations, doctor; 18 to 23 points—honorsgraduate; 13 to 17 points —you’replenty smart, but no grind; 5to12points —you really shouldhit the booksharder;1point to 4points —enroll in remedial courses immediately; 0points who reads thequestions to you?

Saturday's Cryptoquote: Walkingthroughthe surf, the seasneaks up behind me,and shows me its love. —Nallen

1. Bat. 2. Bird. 3. Peacock. 4. Bee. 5. Fox. 6. Mule. 7. Kitten.8.Skunk.9.Beaver.10. Lark. 11.Church mouse. 12. Goose. 13. March hare. 14.Mouse. 15. Dog Crossword

jeFF mACnelly’sshoe/ by Gary Brookins &Susie MacNelly

by BillAmend