The Advocate 08-06-2026

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EBR schools chief charged with corruption

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Hopefuls vie for Congress

Indictments stem from Cole’s time on Metro Council

He faces conspiracy, malfeasance, money laundering charges

Two open seats draw candidates as qualifying begins

BY MEGHAN FRIEDMANN Staff writer

STAFF PHOTO By JAVIER GALLEGOS

Superintendent LaMont Cole speaks during the annual back-to-school convocation for East Baton Rouge Parish school employees on Tuesday at Southern University.

BY PATRICK SLOAN-TURNER Staff writer

East Baton Rouge Parish schools Superintendent LaMont Cole was indicted Wednesday, accused of taking part in a bribery scheme involving city-parish contractors while he was a member of the parish Metro Council.

A special grand jury charged Cole with two counts of conspiracy to commit public bribery, two counts of money laundering, and a count of malfeasance in office.

As of Wednesday evening, the court

had not yet released probable cause documents that would include details about the charges levied against Cole.

In a statement Wednesday afternoon, Cole briefly acknowledged the indictment but then wrote about the upcoming new school year, which starts Thursday.

“By now, many of you have likely seen the news. I plan to release a personal statement once I feel we are fully prepared for the first day of school,” Cole said. “For now, my focus remains exactly where it has always been, on our students and ensuring they have an outstanding

start to the school year.”

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill’s office declined to comment beyond issuing a brief statement.

“These are very serious charges. It was based on a lengthy investigation by the grand jury,” Murrill said in a statement.

“This investigation is continuing, so we have no further comment at this time.”

The grand jury also charged Terral “TJ” Jackson and his wife, Erica Jackson, with the same two charges of conspiracy

As qualifying begins for the November open primary for Louisiana’s congressional districts, two seats are wide open for anyone to take — and they are drawing quite the array of candidates.

But, after the first day for candidates to sign up to run passed Wednesday, one big mystery remained: Will state Sen. Blake Miguez run for one of those seats? And, if so, which one?

Miguez, a Republican from New Iberia, was running for the 5th District until Louisiana’s maps got redrawn in the spring. He won President Donald Trump’s endorsement for the seat, a powerful boost in the race.

But candidates had to requalify after the redistricting, and Miguez has been mum about whether or where he will run. He could now run in the 5th District in northeast Louisiana or in the 6th District, which was redrawn to be a majority-White district in the Baton Rouge area that will likely elect a Republican.

It was formerly a majority-Black district represented by U.S. Rep. Cleo Fields, a Democrat who decided not to run after the district was redrawn.

Miguez represents and has lived in the New Iberia area, but he owns a property in Baton Rouge. The possibility that he would run in a district different from the one he has long represented has prompted barbs

ä See CHARGED, page 7A

ä See HOPEFULS, page 7A

School Board leaders express support for Cole

BY CHARLES LUSSIER Staff writer

Barely two years after taking the job, LaMont Cole’s future as the leader of Louisiana’s second-largest traditional public school district is in question after he was indicted Wednesday on felony corruption charges.

It doesn’t appear, though, that the 52-year-old veteran school official is in any immediate danger of being sidelined or removed from his job overseeing the

“We want to explicitly state that we stand firmly behind Mr. Cole as he navigates this matter.”

continue to support Cole and ask that parish residents “maintain faith in our schools as we move forward together.”

“We want to explicitly state that we SHASHONNIE STEWARD AND CLIFF LEWIS, stand firmly behind Mr. Cole as he navigates this matter,” they wrote. “Our legal East Baton Rouge Parish School Board system is built on the foundational bedpresident and vice president rock of due process and the presumption of innocence. Just as we teach our stueducation of about 38,000 students. dents to respect fair processes, we must In a joint statement released Wednes- allow the legal system to run its course day, board President Shashonnie Steward ä See SUPPORT, page 7A and Vice President Cliff Lewis say they

STAFF FILE PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER

Qualifying began Wednesday for the open primary in November for Louisiana’s congressional districts.

Siblings’ murder-for-hire trial gets underway in Iberville Parish

BY OLIVIA TEES

Staff writer

On Aug. 27, 2024, 65-year-old Herman Harris was found shot to death in his home in Maringouin, and his family immediately contacted the Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office.

A couple of days after Harris’ body was discovered, authorities

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arrested siblings Rilonda and David Brooks, along with 27-year-old Johnnie Hicks, of Mississippi. Investigators believe the brothersister duo hired Hicks to carry out the killing so they could avoid a lawsuit Harris intended to file against Rilonda Brooks, his former boss.

Now, almost two years later, in a crowded courtroom at the Iber-

ville Parish Courthouse, the trial is officially underway to determine who will bear the responsibility for the brutal slaying of Harris.

Judge Alvin Batiste came out of retirement specifically to preside over the case.

The Brooks siblings and Hicks were indicted by a grand jury on charges of second-degree murder, conspiracy, aggravated burglary

and obstruction of justice.

However, each of the three defendants has their own defense attorney — and each is providing conflicting stories about what happened.

During opening arguments Wednesday, District Attorney Tony Clayton said the state will pursue the narrative that Rilonda Brooks crafted the entire opera-

Business ......................6A Commentary ................5B Nation-World ................2A Classified .....................6D Deaths .........................3B Opinion ........................4B Comics-Puzzles .....3D-5D Living............................1D Sports ..........................1C

tion and enlisted her brother to hire the triggerman and carry out her “dirty business.”

“This mastermind here, as you sit here right now, ice cold water runs through her veins,” Clayton said, pointing to Rilonda Brooks.

As Clayton addressed the mostly White jury, he gestured toward the

ä See TRIAL, page 7A

102ND yEAR, NO. 37

2A ■ Thursday,August 6, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

BRIEFS

FROM WIRE REPORTS

U.S. offers $25M for leader of powerful cartel

MEXICO CITY — The U.S. government on Wednesday offered a $25 million reward for information leading to the capture of Juan Carlos González, or “Pelón,” scaling up pressure on a U.S. citizen who has emerged as the figurehead of Mexico’s most powerful cartel.

The reward was bumped up from $5 million. The Trump administration offered a total of $100 million in rewards for various leaders of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, or CJNG, and restricted the visas of family members and business associates of cartel members.

U.S. officials said the rewards, along with newly unsealed charges against five other highranking leaders, were aimed at crippling the organization’s leadership while President Donald Trump has ramped up pressure on Mexico and other Latin American nations to carry out his security agenda.

CJNG is among eight Mexican cartels designated as a foreign terrorist organization.

The group was dealt a blow in February when leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, or “El Mencho,” was killed by the Mexican military. The U.S. provided intelligence for the operation, which resulted in a burst in violence in the state of Jalisco.

González, Oseguera Cervantes’s stepson and a dual Mexican and U.S. citizen, is reported to have taken control of the cartel, which is involved in everything from avocado production to drug smuggling.

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Deal will hinge on U.S. blockade

a joint statement will be issued “if Tehran’s nuclear program.

Iran insists on some control of Strait of Hormuz certain Earlier, they had said the potenparties do not obstruct this

BY ELENA BECATOROS, SAMY MAGDY and DARLENE SUPERVILLE Associated Press

CAIRO — Iran said Wednesday it is in the “final stage” of drafting an agreement with Oman over the Strait of Hormuz, and U.S. President Donald Trump has said a deal could be announced this week.

That could potentially reopen the critical waterway, CO ONFLICT ease pressure on the world econoIN THE T my and help bring MIIDDLE an end to the war.

EAST AST But the agreement is likely to be contingent on the U.S. lifting its blockade on Iran’s ports. The Trump administration has previously ruled out any deal that would cement Iran’s grip over the strait, which would amount to a major loss for the U.S. and a break with global norms.

Iran has insisted on some mea-

sure of control over the strait, saying it will not go back to being an open international waterway, as it was before the war.

The U.S., along with Israel, launched the war on Feb. 28, citing various goals including toppling Tehran’s government and ending its nuclear program. Those have not been achieved, and the conflict has devolved into a fight over the strait as Iran’s assertion of control and attacks on shipping have ground traffic to a near-halt.

Closure of the strait, through which a fifth of the world’s traded oil and natural gas once passed, has driven up the price of fuel and basic goods, roiling the global economy. Trump is also under mounting pressure to end an unpopular war ahead of U.S. congressional elections.

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Esmail Baghaei, said that the agreement with Oman is in the “final stage” of drafting, and that

process,” apparently referring to the U.S. Iranian and Omani negotiators have finalized the draft deal to reopen the strait and await final approval from Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei, two regional officials told The Associated Press on Wednesday.

Khamenei is believed to have been wounded in the war’s opening strikes and has not been seen in public since then.

The officials, who were briefed on the negotiations, portrayed the potential deal as a temporary solution to the dispute over the strait.

They said it is tied to an agreement reached between the U.S. and Iran in June that aimed at ending the fighting and reopening the waterway but ultimately collapsed.

The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the private talks, said the potential deal will pave the way for the U.S. and Iran to resume negotiations on

CDC: 15 states now linked to cyclospora

BY MIKE STOBBE Associated Press

Drone with explosives found at German airport BERLIN — A drone with explosives was found at Germany’s Leipzig/Halle Airport and the device was defused, authorities said Wednesday, in an incident that the country’s top security official said posed a “new quality of danger.”

Both the runways at the major freight hub were closed and several flights, including one passenger plane, were diverted to other airports after a flying object was sighted nearby shortly before midnight Tuesday. An anti-explosives robot was deployed to check an object near the south runway.

Regional police and prosecutors later said an airport employee discovered a drone near the south runway with “an unknown explosive device,” and the object was examined by police. They removed its detonator.

That the drone was carrying explosives “is a new quality of danger,” German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt told reporters at the airport.

“Drone sightings, drone threats including in a hybrid context, are something we know from the past,” he added. “That a drone armed with explosives is at an airport is a new threat scenario.”

Clerk won’t have to pay Murdaugh’s legal fees COLUMBIA, S.C — A federal judge has thrown out a lawsuit by Alex Murdaugh seeking $600,000 in legal fees by the former court clerk whose misconduct led his murder convictions to be overturned on appeal.

Murdaugh sued Becky Hill in May saying she violated his right to a fair trial in the deaths of his wife and son.

A jury found Murdaugh guilty, but the state Supreme Court overturned the convictions and life sentences earlier this year saying Hill’s comments to jurors suggested the once-prominent lawyer was guilty and his testimony in his own defense couldn’t be trusted.

The problem with Murdaugh’s legal reasoning is he would have had to spend the money anyway because it wasn’t Hill who investigated or pursued justice against him, Judge Richard Gergel wrote in his ruling Wednesday. Murdaugh’s attorneys filed a notice to appeal about two hours later.

Investigators said Murdaugh was addicted to opioids and his complex schemes to steal money from clients and his family’s law firm were starting to unravel so he killed his wife and son to divert attention and buy time to find a way out of his problems.

tial agreement would have ships enter the Persian Gulf through an Iranian-controlled route and exit through a route controlled

by Oman. Service fees would be charged for providing security and preserving the maritime environment, the officials said.

The U.S. has said it is strongly opposed to any arrangement that would see Iran charge fees.

Trump was asked on Tuesday evening by reporters about a report on the Axios news site that an announcement on the strait could be made on Wednesday.

“It could happen. Tomorrow or the next day,” Trump said. “A lot of progress has been made.”

The Iranian-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen claimed Wednesday they had fired ballistic missiles toward a Saudi oil tanker on the Red Sea off the Saudi port of Yanbu, without providing evidence. There was no immediate comment from Saudi Arabia.

PROVIDED PHOTO By RUSSELL JOHNSON

Construction crews drill wells for border wall construction in July in Luna County, N.M., along the U.S.-Mexico border.

Border wall contractors told to stop drilling wells

BY MIKELLA SCHUETTLER

immediately returned.

Associated Press

Agency says contractors drilled illegally

PHOENIX — The Trump administration has ordered construction crews on a border wall to stop drilling wells in droughtstricken New Mexico after ranchers said pumping groundwater needed to make concrete could threaten their livestock.

The order comes as crews across the southern border race to complete one of President Donald Trump’s highest domestic priorities — barriers that span four states and received over $46 billion in federal funding. Controversies have sprouted up in Texas and California, with border-town residents and environmentalists reporting a wide variety of issues with construction.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which oversees border wall construction, has said water is needed to make concrete for roads, wall construction and dust suppression. Cattle ranchers in the area say the drought has already forced them to reduce their herd size.

“It would put us in an immediate catastrophe and having to do something with our livestock. I mean, it could potentially put some people out of business, us included,” said Russell Johnson, a cattle rancher whose property runs along the border.

Johnson raised the issue at a public meeting in July after noticing an industrial well, which drilling crews told him would pump 300 gallons a minute, on land he leases for grazing. Johnson has roughly 12 wells across his ranch, which pump between three and seven gallons a minute.

A spokesperson for CBP said on Monday that border wall contractors in New Mexico have been instructed to stop drilling new wells, but did not comment on whether the wells already drilled could be pumped. The agency said they would collaborate with New Mexico and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to develop a groundwater strategy.

“CBP is committed to working collaboratively with local landowners to ensure that construction activities do not adversely impact their water needs,” read the statement.

The federal contractors building the wall in New Mexico — Caddell Construction Co. and Fisher Industries — did not respond to emails or phone calls seeking comment. Messages left with receptionists for Barnard Construction and Spencer Construction Co., the contractors building near Johnson’s ranch, were not

The New Mexico Office of the State Engineer, which monitors and approves wells across the state, said staff have counted eight wells drilled without the office’s permission along the southern border, but cautioned there could be more. Staff visited two wells in July and reported they were pumping 200 gallons per minute.

“All nontribal wells in New Mexico, whether they are drilled on state or federal land, must have permits from the state engineer before they can be drilled or water can be pumped from them,” the Office of the State Engineer said in a statement.

The wells for border construction were all drilled on a federally owned strip of land 18 miles wide that extends just north of the border called the Roosevelt Reservation. CBP did not respond to follow up questions about whether the federal government has a right to pump groundwater on federal land without state oversight.

Cattle ranchers report culling herds Tom Patterson, president of the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association, says water is the No. 1 concern for ranchers and that if wells start to go dry, it’s already too late. During wall construction in Trump’s first term, Patterson said, contractors bought water from farms, ranches, or municipalities in the area, which meant the amount of water being pumped from nearby basins didn’t increase during construction.

“Why do they need all this water?” said Patterson. “And why can’t they buy it as they have in the past from farmers, ranchers, or even from Luna County?”

Johnson said the moratorium on future well drilling is a step in the right direction, but he’s still worried after a contractor told him the well near his ranch could eventually be pumped if crews ended up needing the water. Though beef prices are up, Johnson has been forced to reduce his herd to one third its original capacity. He cites the drought, which has left less grass for cattle to graze on, as the main reason for the drop.

Before the first border wall went up, Johnson remembers seeing at least one truck of people crossing his ranch every week. Now, he says illegal crossing hardly ever happens on his ranch. As a former Border Patrol agent, he supports the border wall but doesn’t believe it should cost him his livelihood.

NEW YORK — Parasitic illness cases in 15 states have been linked to iceberg lettuce, U.S. health officials said Wednesday.

Cyclospora cases have been reported in at least 47 states this year, and investigators have continued to probe how many could be linked to a common contaminated source.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the number of states tied to the deadly outbreak had grown from nine to 15.

Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, New Hampshire and North Carolina were added to a list that previously included Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

Investigators initially narrowed in on lettuce served at Taco Bell. Federal officials subsequently said they are focused on Taylor Farms as the source, and the company has recalled iceberg lettuce grown in

central Mexico.

There are several reasons cyclospora outbreaks can be hard to investigate and contain, said Dr. Juan Luis Marquez, medical director of the Washtenaw County and Livingston County health departments in Michigan.

It can take weeks between when someone is exposed to the parasite and when they come down with symptoms; it’s harder to analyze the parasite in laboratories; and it’s a lot of work to interview everyone who is sick and clearly identify common exposures, said Marquez, an adjunct public health professor at the University of Michigan.

Also, “there have been staffing cuts at all levels of public health — federal, local, state — so there are less resources and capacity generally available,” Marquez said in a statement.

Cyclospora is a microscopic, spherical parasite that commonly causes watery diarrhea “with frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements,” according to the CDC.

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CDC leader confirmed La. federal judge could hold Senate approves Schwartz for tumult-laden agency

BY MIKE STOBBE Associated Press

NEW YORK — The Senate on Wednesday confirmed Dr. Erica Schwartz as director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, placing her in charge of a public health agency beleaguered by political meddling and low morale.

Schwartz was confirmed in a 51-44 vote. The 54-yearold becomes the 22nd leader of the Atlanta-based CDC, which is charged with pro- Schwartz tecting Americans from preventable health threats, and the agency’s first confirmed director in nearly a year. Her resume includes medical and law degrees, a stint as deputy surgeon general, and a leadership position at the U.S. Coast Guard.

Schwartz’s nomination appeared to be on shaky ground after a hearing before the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee last month. The chairman, Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-Baton Rouge, and others questioned whether she would be willing to stand up to Republican President Donald Trump’s health secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., if he ordered CDC to do something unsupported by science and good public health practice.

But weeks later, Cassidy said he had spoken with Schwartz after that hearing and with others who knew her, and said he had gained confidence in her.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services officials did not immediately respond to questions about when Schwartz will start the job or her salary.

The CDC has been in turmoil since Trump returned to office last year.

Largely due to layoffs and resignations,

the agency has lost 3,000-plus employees, more than one-quarter of its workforce.

Morale has plummeted as a succession of mostly temporary leaders has come and gone. The front office has been staffed by political appointees with little or no training in medicine or public health.

“Now, Dr. Schwartz needs to prove that her leadership will serve science and not the whims of politicians. CDC needs a Director who will protect public health workers, defend evidence-based guidance, and refuse any directive that would undermine public safety,” said the National Public Health Coalition, an organization of former and current CDC workers, in a statement Wednesday.

When Schwartz was nominated in April, public health experts were cautiously optimistic, citing her background. They also noted that Schwartz was the choice of Trump and not Kennedy, who is a leading voice in the anti-vaccine movement before he was tapped to oversee the CDC and other federal health agencies.

Schwartz was the third Trump nominee for CDC director in the past 18 months.

The first was a former Florida congressman, Dr. David Weldon. His Senate hearing in March 2025 was canceled an hour before it was to begin. Weldon said at the time that he had been told not enough senators were willing to vote for him.

The White House then moved on to Susan Monarez, who had been serving as the CDC’s acting director. Monarez was confirmed by the Senate, but ousted from the job in less than a month. Trump administration officials said she was not aligned with the president’s agenda, so they terminated her. Since then, there have been a series of HHS officials as acting CDC directors.

“With all the turmoil of the past two years, the CDC desperately needs stability, experienced leadership and a steadfast commitment to science,” said Dr. Georges Benjamin of the American Public Health Association, in a statement Wednesday.

Nanny: Clancy appeared to be a loving mother before killings

BY MICHAEL CASEY Associated Press

Months before Lindsay Clancy strangled her three children, she lost significant weight, couldn’t sleep and complained of postpregnancy mental health issues, the family’s former nanny testified at her murder trial Wednesday.

But the nanny never worried the Massachusetts mother might be a danger to her children or to herself.

“I observed a wonderful mom who loved her kids,” Elaine Rossi told the jury on the seventh day of the trial in Plymouth. “She was concerned about their safety, and Callan eating and sleeping. She was a wonderful mother.”

Clancy’s defense says she was a loving mother who was overmastered by postpartum psychosis, a dangerous psychiatric condition that afflicts a small proportion of women after childbirth and affects their hold on reality.

Prosecutors contend that she acted intentionally on Jan. 24, 2023, and should be held criminally responsible for the deaths of Callan,

Dawson and Cora Clancy, who ranged in age from 8 months to 5 years.

Rossi was hired in September 2022, a few months after Callan was born, and let go in December after Clancy, 35, decided not to return to work. Rossi said she wasn’t told why Clancy, a f o r m e r Rossi labor and delivery nurse, chose to remain at home.

The defense sought to portray Clancy as a d o t i n g Clancy mother who acknowledged her mental health difficulties. Prosecutors likely hope the jury will see a mom who wasn’t impaired by her mental health.

Rossi testified that she saw prescription medicine bottles in the house, and that Clancy “shared with me she had postpartum and couldn’t sleep,” and had taken to sleeping in the basement.

In her journals during that

time, Clancy indicated she was struggling with anxiety and feeling overwhelmed by motherhood.

Both the prosecution and defense read excerpts from her diary to the jury Monday, where she catalogued an ever-shifting lineup of psychiatric prescriptions, as well as thoughts of suicide.

Clancy remains paralyzed from the waist down after jumping from her home’s second-story window on the night of the killings.

Clancy wrote about her struggles to get newborn Callan to sleep, and constant worries of his being sick.

She also expressed concerns about going back to work, not being able to breastfeed, and feeling disconnected from her children and her then-husband.

“I’m so desperate to get a mental break from taking care of everyone that my mind is trying to find something physically wrong with me,” she wrote in a Nov. 18, 2022, entry.

“I have crazy brain fog. I feel like I can’t make a plan,” she wrote in another, undated entry. “I live moment to moment waiting for the next nap time.”

U.S. officials in contempt Government has tried to deport man despite orders not to

BY JAMES FINN Staff writer

A Baton Rouge federal judge on Wednesday weighed holding U.S. Department of Homeland Security officials in contempt in a hearing after finding federal officials repeatedly tried deporting a man despite the judge’s repeated orders to stand down.

“The issue is not whether I can make a contempt finding, but whether I should,” said U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles of the Middle District of Louisiana in a Zoom hearing in the case of 43-year-old Ibrahim Mohammed.

A contempt ruling against officials within DHS, which oversees U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, would mark the second such order by a federal judge this month amid an ongoing clash between federal judges and the immigration crackdown from President Donald Trump’s administration.

A Maryland man jailed over the past year at the “Camp 57” immigration lockup in the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola, Mohammed moved legally into the U.S. in 2014 and earned asylum from his native Ethiopia.

He was ordered deported after a child sexual abuse conviction, and federal officials marked him last year for deportation either to Eswatini or Equatorial Guinea — part of a push by the administration to send deportees to countries other than their places of origin amid the administration’s ongoing immigration

crackdown.

DeGravelles in February ordered Mohammed freed from Angola, ruling that ICE let him languish in detention without a viable place to deport him after finding he had qualified for supervised release.

ICE agents rearrested Mohammed two months later after finding that the two small African countries would agree to take him, a federal official previously testified. DeGravelles slammed government lawyers for their handling of the rearrest, again ordering him released. In that instance, he ruled agents violated Mohammed’s due process rights, including by failing to serve him papers saying where he would be deported, and warned the government against arresting him again without those steps.

Last week, ICE agents in Maryland did exactly that, deGravelles wrote in a curt order that triggered Wednesday’s hearing.

The government, DeGravelles wrote after consulting Mohammed’s attorneys, again failed to serve Mohammed with required papers notifying him of the country to which he would be sent — this time, the Central African Republic.

Government officials also did not interview Mohammed to determine whether he had credible fear of harm upon arriving there, among other failures to adhere to due-process requirements.

The judge called government lawyers to his virtual courtroom Wednesday to show why he should not hold “decision-makers who are responsible for this redetention in contempt.”

DeGravelles said he would deliver a ruling on that question within a week.

The civil contempt ruling would apply to senior ICE

officials involved in attempts to deport Mohammed, he said.

A federal judge in California on Tuesday held DHS in civil contempt for allegedly slow-rolling her order to create digital copies of messages contained on personal cellphones of immigration agents involved in immigration raids in Los Angeles.

A senior ICE official who ordered Mohammed’s rearrest, Vernon Liggins, told deGravelles during Wednesday’s hearing that some required papers were not served to Mohammed during his latest arrest because of the huge volume of people ICE is now detaining.

“We try to get all detainees served as quickly as possible, but we’re arresting a lot of people nowadays,” Liggins said. “Mr. Mohammed, I’m sure, wasn’t the first person processed that day.”

Citing internal DHS sources, ABC News reported that ICE arrests reached a record high of 51,000 in July.

Attorneys for Mohammed asked deGravelles to compel the government to pay his attorneys fees as well as about $180 in compensation for time lost to his detention.

They also asked deGravelles to affirm a portion of an earlier ruling requiring a 14-day notice period if the government seeks to detain him again.

James Finn covers federal law enforcement and courts for The TimesPicayune | The Advocate.

Email him at jfinn@ theadvocate.com or contact him on Signal at jamesfinn.82.

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Scientists certain SpaceX rocket hit moon

BY MARCIA DUNN AP aerospace writer

CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — A SpaceX rocket that launched a pair of lunar landers slammed into the moon as predicted on Wednesday after drifting off course for the past year, scientists reported.

Although no one observed the actual 5,400-mph collision, a telescope in Chile spotted what astronomers have identified as the debris plume resulting from the crash. Space tracking experts said it was inevitable that the leftover rocket segment plowed into the moon.

SpaceX’s Julianna Scheiman said this week that the company is working with NASA to avoid future wrecks, stressing that this projected crash was not deliberate. A combination of solar activity and gravity accidentally put it on a collision course with the moon, she said.

Boston University’s Carl Schmidt said he is “100% certain” that his team’s observations revealed signs of the lunar crash. The European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope detected a stream of sodium

and lithium stretching for miles into space for at least

five to 10 minutes following the impact, he added.

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4A ■ Thursday,August 6, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

CLASSIFIEDS continued from Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE --The following resolution was offered by Mr. Marty Hughes and seconded by Mr. Kenneth Mackie: RESOLUTION A resolution directing the levy and collection of an ad valorem tax of not ex‐ ceeding twenty-four (24) mills on assessed valua‐ tion of all property sub‐ ject to taxation in the Zachary Community School System, Parish of East Baton Rouge, State of Louisiana (the “Sys‐ tem”), for a period of twenty (20) years, begin‐ ning with the tax year 2026, and annually there‐ after, to and including 2045, authorized under the provisions of Article VI, Sections 30 and 32 and Article VIII, Section 13(D) of the Constitution of the State of Louisiana of 1974, as amended, and other constitutional and statutory authority as applicable, for the pur‐ pose of providing addi‐ tional support to public elementary and sec‐ ondary schools within the System and for any lawful school purposes, including paying salaries and benefits of school system personnel; and providing for other mat‐ ters in connection there‐ with.

WHEREAS, under the pro‐ visions of Article VI, Sec‐ tions 30 and 32 and Arti‐ cle VIII, Section 13(D) of the Constitution of the State of Louisiana of 1974, as amended, and other constitutional and statutory authority sup‐ plemental thereto, in‐ cluding an election held in the Zachary Commu‐ nity School System, Parish of East Baton Rouge, State of Louisiana (the “System”) on Satur‐ day, June 27, 2026, the Zachary Community School Board (the “Gov‐ erning Authority”), act‐ ing as the governing au‐ thority of the System, de‐ sires to levy and collect the ad valorem tax as au‐ thorized at the election by virtue of the favorable passage of the proposi‐ tion attached hereto as Schedule A setting forth the rate and duration of the tax; and WHEREAS, in compliance with the provisions of said authority and other applicable constitutional and statutory authority, an election was held in the System on Saturday, June 27, 2026, to autho‐ rize the levy and collec‐ tion of the ad valorem tax, it is now the desire of the System to levy the ad valorem tax and pro‐ vide for the collection thereof and other mat‐ ters in connection there‐ with as hereinafter pro‐ vided in this resolution.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Zachary Community School Board, acting as the governing authority of the System, that: SECTION 1. Pursuant to the authority of an elec‐ tion held in the System on Saturday, June 27, 2026, there be and there is hereby levied within the geographic bound‐ aries of the System for the purposes and in the manner stated in the proposition attached hereto as Schedule A, an ad valorem tax of not ex‐ ceeding twenty-four (24) mills on assessed valua‐ tion of all property sub‐ ject to taxation in the System, beginning with the tax year 2026, and annually thereafter, to and including 2045, to be dedicated and used for the purpose of providing additional support to public elementary and secondary schools within the System and for any lawful school purposes, including pay‐ ing salaries and benefits of school system person‐ nel, all in the manner and subject to the provisions and terms of those por‐ tions of Chapter 3 of Title 17 of the Louisiana Re‐ vised Statutes of 1950, as amended, and all other laws of the State applica‐ ble to ad valorem taxes levied by school districts.

SECTION 2. That the ad valorem tax described in Section 1 above shall be levied, assessed, im‐ posed, collected, paid and enforced according to law.

SECTION 3. The obliga‐ tions and rights of tax‐ payers in connection with the ad valorem tax levied hereby shall be as provided by the provi‐ sions of law applicable to ad valorem taxes levied by the System.

SECTION 4. If any one or more of the provisions of this resolution shall for any reason be held to be illegal or invalid, such il‐ legality or invalidity shall not affect any other pro‐ vision of this resolution, but this resolution shall be construed and en‐ forced as if such illegal or invalid provisions had not been contained herein.

Any constitu‐ tional or statutory provi‐ sion enacted after the date of this resolution which validates or makes legal any provision of this resolution which would not otherwise be valid or legal, shall be deemed to apply to this resolution.

SECTION 5. Upon adop‐ tion, this resolution shall be published in full in one (1) issue of the Advo‐ cate and shall be recorded in the mortgage records of the East Baton Rouge Parish Clerk of Court.

SECTION 6. The President of the System be and he is hereby authorized, em‐ powered and directed to take any and all such ac‐ tion as may be necessary to carry into effect the provisions of this resolu‐ tion.

SECTION 7. This resolu‐ tion shall immediately take effect upon adop‐ tion.

This resolution having been submitted to a vote, the vote thereon was as follows: YEAS: Mr. Ryan Talbot, Mr. Marty Hughes, Mr. h ki

lll

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y

g Kenneth Mackie, Ms. Laura Freeman, Dr. Crystal London, Mr. David Dayton, Dr. Elecia Lathon NAYS: None ABSENT: Dr. Tracey Tay‐ lor-Jarrell, Mr. Andrew Gaines And the resolution was declared adopted on this, the 14th day of July, 2026. /s/ Andrew Gaines Andrew Gaines, President ATTEST: /s/ Ben Necaise Ben Necaise, Superintendent SCHEDULE A PROPOSITION Shall the Zachary Com‐ munity School System, Parish of East Baton Rouge, State of Louisiana (the “System”), be autho‐ rized to levy and collect an ad valorem tax of twenty-four (24) mills on the dollar of assessed valuation on all property subject to taxation within its boundaries (the “Tax”) (an estimated $8,400,000 is reasonably expected to be collected from the levy of the Tax for an entire year), for twenty (20) years, begin‐ ning with the tax year 2026, and annually there‐ after, to and including 2045, and shall said Tax (after paying reasonable and necessary expenses of collection and admin‐ istration), be used en‐ tirely and exclusively for the purpose of providing additional support to public elementary and secondary schools within the System and for any lawful school purposes, including pay‐ ing salaries and benefits of school system person‐ nel, but in no event shall the levy and collection of the Tax, together with any millage levied to debt service any hereto‐ fore existing outstanding general obligations of the System, exceed twenty-four (24) mills in any tax collection year?

STATE OF LOUISIANA PARISH OF EAST BATON ROUGE I, the undersigned Super‐ intendent of the Zachary Community School Board (the “Governing Author‐ ity”), acting as the gov‐ erning authority of the Zachary Community School System, Parish of East Baton Rouge, State of Louisiana, do hereby certify that the foregoing constitutes a true and correct copy of a resolu‐ tion adopted by the Gov‐ erning Authority on July 14, 2026, directing the levy and collection of an ad valorem tax of not ex‐ ceeding twenty-four (24) mills on assessed valua‐ tion of all property sub‐ ject to taxation in the Zachary Community School System, Parish of East Baton Rouge, State of Louisiana (the “Sys‐ tem”), for a period of twenty (20) years, , be‐ ginning with the tax year 2026, and annually there‐ after, to and including 2045, authorized under the provisions of Article VI, Sections 30 and 32 and Article VIII, Section 13(D) of the Constitution of the State of Louisiana of 1974, as amended, and other constitutional and statutory authority as applicable, for the pur‐ pose of providing addi‐ tional support to public elementary and sec‐ ondary schools within the System and for any lawful school purposes, including paying salaries and benefits of school system personnel; and providing for other mat‐ ters in connection there‐ with.

I further certify that this resolution has not been amended or rescinded.

IN FAITH WHEREOF, wit‐ ness my official signa‐ ture and the impress of the official seal of said Zachary Community School Board in the Parish of East Baton Rouge, State of Louisiana on this 14th day of July, 2026. /s/ Ben Necaise Ben Necaise, Superintendent (SEAL) 196301-AUG 6-1T $151.38 PUBLIC NOTICE --UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT MIDDLE DISTRICT OF LOUISIANA IN THE MATTER OF INGRAM BARGE COMPANY LLC, AS OWNER AND OPERATOR OF THE M/V ACE G AND ITS MACHINERY, GEAR, TACKLE, APPAREL AND ALL OTHER APPURTE‐ NANCES, PETITIONING FOR EXONERATION FROM AND/OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY CASE NO.: 26-637-SDD-RLB SECTION: JUDGE: MAGISTRATE JUDGE: NOTICE OF COMPLAINT FOR EXONERATION FROM AND/OR LIMITA‐ TION OF LIABILITY NOTICE is hereby given that Ingram Barge Com‐ pany LLC, as owner of the M/V ACE G (“Ves‐ sel”), has filed a Com‐ plaint pursuant to 46 U.S.C. §§ 30501 et seq., claiming the right to ex‐ oneration from and/or limitation of liability for any loss, damage, injury, or destruction caused by or resulting from an De‐ cember 22, 2025, incident wherein the Vessel came into contact with a barge in the CCI fleet.

All persons asserting claims with respect to which the Verified Com‐ plaint seeks exoneration from or limitation of lia‐ bility are advised and ad‐ monished to file their re‐ spective claims with the Clerk of the Court for the United States District Court, Middle District of

Louisiana, 777 Florida Street, Suite 139, Baton Rouge, LA 70801, and to serve on the attorneys for Limitation Plaintiff, Liskow & Lewis, 701 Poy‐ dras Street, Suite 5000, New Orleans, LA 70319, a copy thereof on or before the 20th day of August, 2026, or be forever de‐ faulted. Personal atten‐ dance is not required.

Any claimant desiring to contest either the right to exoneration from and/or the right to limita‐ tion of liability shall file and serve an answer, all as required by Rule F of the Supplemental Rules for Certain Admiralty and Maritime Claims con‐ tained in the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana, this 10 day of June, 2026 /s/Shelly D. Dick UNITED STATES DISTRICT JUDGE 194247 July 16, 23, 30, Aug. 6, 2026 4t $1,037.28

Public Notices Meet/Hear/Min

PUBLIC NOTICE --A. CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Slaughter called the meeting to order at 6:31 p.m., on Monday, July 06, 2026, at the Zachary City Hall located at 4700 Main Street, Zachary, LA B. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance were carried over from previous meet‐ ing.

C. OPENING PROCEDURES 1. ROLL CALL MEMBERS PRESENT Mindy Slaughter Jared Watkins James Peay Jason Floyd Tommy Womack Christi Murphy Kevin Williams 2. READING OF CITY POLICY RELATIVE TO OPEN MEETINGS An opportunity for public comment shall be ob‐ served before a vote is taken on any agenda item. Once recognized by the presiding officer, the person afforded the floor, shall identify the agenda item upon which he or she wishes to pro‐ vide comment and shall limit his or her com‐ ments to matters that are strictly relevant to that agenda item. Com‐ mentary shall not exceed three (3) minutes per person. No dialogue be‐ tween Planning and Zon‐ ing board members and the public shall be per‐ mitted at these meet‐ ings, except to clarify the nature of questions and/or comments. The presiding officer re‐ serves the right to limit and/or terminate any commentary when deemed necessary or outside of public deco‐ rum.

3. CHANGES/ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA

D. READING OF THE MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes of the June 01, 2026, regular meeting and approve them as written.

The motion was made by Commissioner Womack The motion was sec‐ onded by Commissioner Slaughter To approve minutes of the June 01, 2026, regular meeting and approve them as written.

YEAS: Slaughter, Watkins, Peay, Floyd, Womack, Murphy, Williams NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAINED: None E. PRESENTATION OF DELEGATION F. ANNOUNCEMENTS G. PLANNING The consent agenda con‐ sists of items with no outstanding issues that do not require plan amendments, text amendments, variances, or waivers.

Consent agenda items may be ap‐ proved with a single mo‐ tion without a public UNLESS re‐ hearing, moved from the consent agenda and placed in the regular agenda order.

Items placed on the Con‐ sent Agenda by the Plan‐ ning & Zoning Staff will not have time allocated for speaking, UNLESS there is a member of the Planning & Zoning Com‐ mission of the public at the meeting who wishes to speak on the item. In such cases, the item will be removed from the consent agenda and placed in the regular agenda order for discus‐ sion.

1. Consent Agenda a) CUPAB-03-26 (Honduguate Restaurant) — Proposed restaurant to serve liquor/alcoholic beverages on Tract B-4 of the Otey M. Hughes Tract, on property lo‐ cated at 5145 Main Street, Zachary, La 70791.

The motion was made by Commissioner Slaughter The motion was made by Commissioner Womack To approve / deny / Table / Remove - CUPAB-03-26 (Honduguate Restaurant) — Proposed restaurant to serve liquor/alcoholic beverages on Tract B-4 of the Otey M. Hughes Tract, on property lo‐ cated at 5145 Main Street, Zachary, La 70791.

YEAS: Slaughter, Watkins, Peay, Floyd, Womack, Murphy, Williams NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAINED: None

2. Old Business 3. New Business a) Deannexation-01-26 (8465 Zachary-Deerford Road) — Proposed peti‐ tion of deannexation of one acre of property lo‐ cated at Tract A-1-A of the J.M. King, Jr. Tract, T5S R1E Sect 37, 8465 Zachary-Deerford Road, Zachary, La 70791.

Commissioner Slaughter opened the PUBLIC HEARING at 6:40 p.m.

Tammy Dellinger, 8262 h f d d

Public Notices Meet/Hear/Min

Public Notices Meet/Hear/Min

y g Zachary Deerford Rd. Plank Rd., was there to speak in favor of the Deannexation.

There being no one else to speak in favor of or against the Deannexa‐ tion, Commissioner Slaughter closed the PUBLIC HEARING at 6:41 p.m.

g do not require plan amendments, text amendments, variances, or waivers.

Consent agenda items may be ap‐ proved with a single mo‐ tion without a public UNLESS re‐ hearing, moved from the consent agenda and placed in the regular agenda order.

The motion was made by Commissioner Womack The motion was sec‐ onded by Commissioner Slaughter To approve - Deannexa‐ tion-01-26 (8465 ZacharyDeerford Road) — Pro‐ posed petition of dean‐ nexation of one acre of property located at Tract A-1-A of the J.M. King, Jr. Tract, T5S R1E Sect 37, 8465 Zachary-Deerford Road, Zachary, La 70791.

YEAS: Slaughter, Peay, Floyd, Womack, Williams NAYS: Watkins, Murphy ABSENT: None ABSTAINED: None

Items placed on the Con‐ sent Agenda by the Plan‐ ning & Zoning Staff will not have time allocated for speaking, UNLESS there is a member of the Planning & Zoning Com‐ mission of the public at the meeting who wishes to speak on the item. In such cases, the item will be removed from the consent agenda and placed in the regular agenda order for discus‐ sion.

b) TA-001-26 (One Acre Minimum) Commissioner Slaughter opened the PUBLIC HEARING at 6:57 p.m.

Pete Charlet, 1161 Memo‐ rial Square Rd. and Sue Staid, 21457 WJ Wicker Rd. had questions re‐ garding the one acre minimum. There being no one to speak in favor of or against the one acre minimum, Commissioner Slaughter closed the PUBLIC HEARING at 7:11 p.m.

The motion was made by Commissioner Womack The motion was sec‐ onded by Commissioner Slaughter To approve TA-001-26 (One Acre Minimum) with changes: Section 2.202, The 2 educational facilities would like them to be changed to a C (Conditional), Private Residential Recreational to be changed to a C (Conditional), and in sec‐ tion 2.203 remove the C (Conditional) and make it blank for campgrounds.

YEAS: Slaughter, Watkins, Floyd, Womack, Murphy, Williams NAYS: None ABSENT: Peay (had to leave at 6:59 for emer‐ gency) ABSTAINED: None G. REPORT OF THE CITY PLANNER Mr. Hill provided an up‐ date on the Master Plan, including revisions to the graphics and overall pre‐ sentation. He stated that an email would be sent to the Commissioners containing the updated graphics for their review.

Mr. Steve Villavaso ad‐ dressed the Commission‐ ers regarding Mr. Hill's update, clarifying that the forthcoming email would include only for‐ matting and design revi‐ sions to the Master Plan.

I. REPORT OF THE CHAIRWOMAN J. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was ad‐ journed at 7:34 p.m. ____________ Karen Burdette Recording Secretary _________________ Mindy Slaughter Chairwoman Karen Burdette, Recording Secretary CITY OF ZACHARY PARISH OF EAST BATON ROUGE STATE OF LOUISIANA 196511 Aug. 6, 1t $101.12 PUBLIC NOTICE --A. CALL TO ORDER Commissioner Slaughter called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m., on Monday, July 06, 2026, at the Zachary City Hall located at 4700 Main Street, Zachary, LA B. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance by Commis‐ sioner Slaughter.

C. OPENING PROCEDURES 1. ROLL CALL MEMBERS PRESENT Mindy Slaughter Jared Watkins James Peay Jason Floyd Tommy Womack Christi Murphy Kevin Williams 2. READING OF CITY POLICY RELATIVE TO OPEN MEETINGS An opportunity for public comment shall be ob‐ served before a vote is taken on any agenda item. Once recognized by the presiding officer, the person afforded the floor, shall identify the agenda item upon which he or she wishes to pro‐ vide comment and shall limit his or her com‐ ments to matters that are strictly relevant to that agenda item. Com‐ mentary shall not exceed three (3) minutes per person. No dialogue be‐ tween Planning and Zon‐ ing board members and the public shall be per‐ mitted at these meet‐ ings, except to clarify the nature of questions and/or comments. The presiding officer re‐ serves the right to limit and/or terminate any commentary when deemed necessary or outside of public deco‐ rum.

3. CHANGES/ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA D. READING OF THE MINUTES 1. Approval of minutes of the June 01, 2026, regular meeting and approve them as written.

The motion was made by Commissioner Womack The motion was sec‐ onded by Commissioner Peay To approve minutes of the June 01, 2026, regular meeting and approve them as written.

YEAS: Slaughter, Watkins, Peay, Floyd, Womack, Murphy, Williams NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAINED: None E. PRESENTATION OF DELEGATION F. ANNOUNCEMENTS G. ZONING The consent agenda con‐ sists of items with no outstanding issues that d i l

1. Consent Agenda 2. Old Business 3. New Business a) ZOI - 55786-EOP E.M. Treakle Subdivision — Proposed exchange of property between Lot 7A-6-A and 7-B-6-B into Lots 7-A-6-A-1 and 7-B-6B-1 of the E.M. Treakle Subdivision (Holloway Plantation), on property located at 25701 and 35700-35800 Adams Lane.

The motion was made by Commissioner Womack The motion was sec‐ onded by Commissioner Peay To give a recommenda‐ tion of no objection - ZOI - 55786-EOP E.M. Treakle Subdivision — Proposed exchange of property be‐ tween Lot 7-A-6-A and 7B-6-B into Lots 7-A-6-A-1 and 7-B-6-B-1 of the E.M. Treakle Subdivision (Hol‐ loway Plantation), on property located at 25701 and 35700-35800 Adams Lane YEAS: Slaughter, Watkins, Peay, Floyd, Womack, Murphy, Williams NAYS: None ABSENT: None ABSTAINED: None H. REPORT OF THE CITY PLANNER I. REPORT OF THE CHAIRWOMAN Public Comment: Mr. Bryan Capone, 9152 Angus Ave., addressed the Commission regard‐ ing concerns about a neighboring property where parts and equip‐ ment have been brought onto the site, alleging that they have caused drainage and water flow issues.

Planning and Zoning Director D'Monda Hill stated that Mr. Stephens would investi‐ gate the matter and ad‐ vised that the Planning and Zoning Department is actively addressing the issue.

Mr. Robert Schwende‐ man, 7246 Angus Dr., ad‐ dressed the Commission with questions regarding the number of vehicles permitted on a residen‐ tial property, and FEMA homes. The Commission advised Mr. Schwende‐ man that these matters were being addressed.

Commissioner James Peay requested that the Planning and Zoning De‐ partment provide the Commissioners with an updated email regarding the findings after Mr. Stephens completes his investigation.

J. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was journed at 6:31 p.m.

ad‐

____________ Karen Burdette Recording Secretary _____________ Mindy Slaughter Chairman Karen Burdette, Recording Secretary CITY OF ZACHARY PARISH OF EAST BATON ROUGE STATE OF LOUISIANA 196512 Aug. 6, 1t $81.24

PUBLIC NOTICE Baton Rouge Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) The Baton Rouge, LA Ur‐ banized Area Metropoli‐ tan Planning Organiza‐ tion’s Transportation Pol‐ icy Committee is sched‐ uling an emergency meeting on Thursday Au‐ gust 3, 2026, at 1:00 pm to be held at CRPC Main Conference Room, 14734 S. Harrell’s Ferry Rd, Suite #B, Baton Rouge, LA 70816.

Agenda 1. CALL TO ORDER AND QUORUM CONFIRMATION Mayor Darnell Waites – TPC Chairman 2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES FROM LAST MEETING (06/25/2026) Mayor Darnell Waites – TPC Chairman 3. ACTION ITEMS A. Transportation Improvement Program FY (2023-2026) Amendments – Highway Projects B. Transportation Improvement Program FY (2023-2026) Amendments – Transit Projects C. Transportation Improvement Program FY (2027-2030)- Draft (Hwy + Transit) 4. NON-ACTION ITEMS A. Transportation Improvement Program FY (2023-2026) Modifications – Highway Projects B. Transportation Improvement Program FY (2023-2026) Modifications – Transit Projects C. CRPC Activity Update • Planning and Technical Services – RFP Update • Regional Traffic Counts Program – RFP Update • Long Range Transportation Plan (MOVE 2050) – Update • Safe Streets For All (SS4A) Grant: Update • Climate Pollution Reduction Grants : Up‐ date • Carbon Reduction Program: Call for Projects (rolling basis) • Commuter Krewe: Update • Capital Region Highway Safety Coalition: Upcoming Events • TIP Project’s Status Report – All Member Ju‐ risdictions 5. OTHER BUSINESS A. Public Comments (Public Comment Cards will be available at the

Public Notices Meet/Hear/Min

Public Notices Meet/Hear/Min

advent of the meeting)

sent 2

6. ADJOURNMENT Mayor Darnell Waites – TPC Chairman

Mr. Musso asked for con‐ sideration of a request to approve the Resolution of Levying the Tax. Roll Call Vote: Mr. Talbot YES, Mr. Hughes YES, Mrs. Freeman YES, Mr. Mackie YES, Dr. Lathon YES, Dr. Lon‐ don YES, Mr. Dayton YES. Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐ sent 2

All the requisite docu‐ ments pertaining to the action items as well as Zoom online meeting links are available for public review and com‐ ment on CRPC’s website at www.crpcla.org. Writ‐ ten comments may be made to: CRPC, 14734 S. Harrell’s Ferry Rd., Ste. B, Baton Rouge, LA. 70816.

Documents will become effective after the re‐ quired public review and comment period has been met.

ADA Notice: CRPC meet‐ ings are conducted in ac‐ cessible locations and provision can be made for those persons of lim‐ ited English proficiency.

For special accommoda‐ tions for this meeting, contact Title VI/ADA/LEP Coordinator via phone 225-383-5203 or via email at info@crpcla.org at least one week in ad‐ vance.

196508 Aug. 6, 1t, $60.20

PUBLIC NOTICE --OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE ZACHARY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT BOARD MEETING Tuesday, July 14, 2026 The meeting was called to order by Dr. Lathon at 6:34 PM on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 3755 Church Street, Zachary, Louisiana, 70791.

Invocation was led by Dr. London.

The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mr. Hughes.

Public Notice of Live Feed was given by Dr. Lathon.

Roll Call by Mr. Musso Board Members in Attendance: Mr. Dayton, Dr. London, Mrs. Freeman, Mr. Talbot, Dr. Lathon Mr. Hughes, Mr. Mackie Board Members Absent: Mr. Gaines, Dr. Taylor-Jar‐ rell Recognition: Mr. Necaise and Mrs. Os‐ berry recognized Mrs. Michele Hebert upon her retirement from Zachary Early Learning Center; she received a trophy in honor of her dedication to the students of Zachary.

Dr. London recognized the Board Interns, Jim‐ mie McKnight, Khaliyah Claiborne and Phoebe Fannin for their accom‐ plishments and awarded them with certificates of achievement.

Receive as Information: Mr. Necaise gave his Su‐ perintendent’s Update to the Board.

Mrs. Bradley and Pillar Leads gave the 2025-2030 Strategic Plan Update Presentation.

Mr. Musso and Gallagher Representatives gave a presentation on Gal‐ lagher Benefit Services regarding insurance rate considerations for the 2026-2027 School Year.

Approval of Minutes: Dr. Lathon asked for ap‐ proval of the minutes from the board.

Mr. Mackie moved to ap‐ prove the minutes of the June 23, 2026, Board Meeting, and the Special Board Meeting on June 30, 2026.

The motion was sec‐ onded by Mrs. Freeman.

Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐ sent 2

Consent Agenda Items: None Stand-Alone Items: Mrs. Williams asked for consideration of a re‐ quest to approve the Ad‐ ministrative Contracts.

Dr. London motioned to approve. Mr. Dayton Sec‐ onded.

Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐ sent 2 Mrs. Coats asked for con‐ sideration of a request to approve Meal Price Changes for the 20262027 School Year.

Mr. Hughes moved to ap‐ prove. Mr. Mackie sec‐ onded the motion.

Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐ sent 2 Mr. Musso asked for con‐ sideration of a request to approve the Louisiana Compliance Question‐ naire.

Mr. Hughes moved to ap‐ prove. Dr. London sec‐ onded the motion.

Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐ sent 2 Mr. Musso asked for con‐ sideration of a request to approve Insurance Rec‐ ommendations for the 2026-2027 School Year.

Dr. London moved to ap‐ prove. Mr. Dayton sec‐ onded the motion.

Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐ sent 2 Mr. Musso asked for con‐ sideration of a request to approve the Audit En‐ gagement for 2025-2026 with Eisner Amper.

Mr. Dayton moved to ap‐ prove. Dr. London sec‐ onded the motion.

Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐ sent 2 Mr. Musso asked for con‐ sideration of a request to approve the General Fund Budget Revision for 2025-2026.

Mr. Hughes moved to ap‐ prove. Dr. London sec‐ onded the motion.

Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐ sent 2 Mr. Musso asked for con‐ sideration of a request to approve the Canvassing of Election Returns.

Roll Call Vote: Mr. Talbot YES, Mr. Hughes YES, Mrs. Freeman YES, Mr. Mackie YES, Dr. Lathon YES, Dr. Lon‐ don YES, Mr. Dayton YES. Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐ sent 2 Mr. Musso asked for con‐ sideration of a request to approve the Proces Ver‐ bal of Canvass of Votes.

Mrs. Freeman moved to approve the request. Dr. London seconded the motion.

Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐

Mr. Burke asked for con‐ sideration of a request to approve the 2026-2027 Students' Rights and Re‐ sponsibilities Handbook.

Mr. Dayton made a mo‐ tion to approve. Mr. Hughes seconded the motion.

Vote: Yeas 6 Nays 1 Ab‐ sent 2 (see subsequent and alternative motions below) Dr. London voted NO – adding a letter of dissent to the records.

Dr. London made a sub‐ sequent motion to re‐ duce the suspensions from 89 to 20 days.

No one seconded the mo‐ tion; the motion failed.

Dr. London made a sec‐ ond alternative motion to reduce the suspension from 89 to 45 days.

No one seconded the mo‐ tion; the motion failed Original VOTE on Agenda Item 6J Carried with vote passing 6 Yeas, 1 Nay, and 2 Absent.

Discussion on Travel Pro‐ cedures and Policy by Board Members and Legal Counsel was tabled by board members until the next Committee of the Whole Meeting. Dr. London made a motion to table. Mr. Hughes sec‐ onded the motion.

Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐ sent 2 Discussion and consider‐ ation of Policy file JDEExpulsion was tabled by the board to the next Committee of the Whole Meeting.

Dr. London made the motion to table. Mr. Mackie sec‐ onded the motion.

Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐ sent 2 The Policy Review was tabled by the board until the next Committee of the Whole Meeting. Dr. London made the motion to table. Mr. Mackie sec‐ onded the motion.

Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐ sent 2 Review of Litigation went into Executive Session.

Dr. London made a mo‐ tion to go into Executive Session. Mr. Mackie sec‐ onded the motion.

Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐ sent 2 Dr. Lathon announced that the board was com‐ ing out of Executive Ses‐ sion. Mr. Dayton made a motion to come out of Executive Session. Mr. Talbot seconded the mo‐ tion.

Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐ sent 2 Organizational Items – Committee of the Whole will be held on August 4, 2026, at 6:30 PM, 3755 Church Street, Zachary, LA 70791.

Discussions on the fol‐ lowing: Policy Review, JDE Expul‐ sion Policy, Travel Proce‐ dures Policy.

Adjournment: Mr. Dayton moved to ad‐ journ. Mr. Mackie sec‐ onded the motion.

Vote: Yeas 7 Nays 0 Ab‐ sent 2 The meeting was ad‐ journed at 9:20 PM. _________________ Mr. Ben Necaise Superintendent ____________ Dr. Lathon – Board Member

NOTICE OF UNAPPROVED MINUTES These minutes are a draft record of the pro‐ ceedings and have not yet been formally re‐ viewed, amended, or ap‐ proved by the School Board. They are pub‐ lished in accordance with state statutory deadlines and are sub‐ ject to change at the next scheduled board meeting.

196500 Aug. 6, 1t $136.90

PUBLIC NOTICE --The City Council for the City of Zachary will con‐ duct a Public Hearing Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. at Zachary City Hall, 4700 Main St. Zachary, LA 70791 to dis‐ cuss and consider autho‐ rizing the lease of Cityowned property at 4434 W. Central Avenue, Zachary, Louisiana.

196492-aug 6-13-20-3t $42.34

Public Notices Nat Res Coastal

PUBLIC NOTICE --NOTICE the Louisiana De‐ partment of Conserva‐ tion and Energy, Office of Permitting and Compli‐ ance (OPC) has received the following applica‐ tion(s) for a Coastal Use Permit (CUP) in accor‐ dance with La. R.S. 49:214.21 et seq., and the rules of the Coastal Man‐ agement Program. Appli‐ cations for coastal use permits may be in‐ spected at 617 North 3rd Street, Room 1078, Baton Rouge, LA or on the OPC https:// webpage at: denr.louisiana.gov/page/ public-notices.

Copies are available, costs apply. Written comments are solicited from the public and must be re‐ ceived within 25 days of the date of this notice.

Comments must be up‐ loaded directly to our electronic record through the OPC web‐ page or mailed to: OPC Administrator, Kyle Balkum, P.O. Box 44487, Baton Rouge, LA 708044487. All comments must contain the appropriate CUP number and the commenter's full name and contact information.

Below are the referenced application(s): *******

Public Notices Nat Res Coastal pp NUMBER: *******CUP P20260642 Name: Shell Offshore c/o T. Baker Smith, LLC 107 GLOBAL CIRCLE LAFAYETTE, LA 70503 Attn: Lindsey Har‐ ris Location: Terrebonne Parish, LA; Lat. 29-3543.3N, Long. 90-39-27.8W; Sec. 27, T17S-R18E; Lot# 3; Parcel# 70168; Tract# 2-A; Reappraisal Dist. 5 in Ward 5; 440 Gulf of Mex‐ ico Ave., Houma, 70363; Intracoastal Waterway Description: Proposed bank stabilization im‐ provements along the perimeter of a Shell Off‐ shore facility warehouse.

Shoreline stabilization measures consist of riprap (approx. 19,747 cy) and/or articulated con‐ crete block systems (Natrx ExoForms or equivalent) to be in‐ stalled within the pro‐ posed project footprint.

106580 Aug. 6, 1t $21.48

Public Notices Successions

PUBLIC NOTICE --19TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH # P-115611 SEC 23 SUCCESSION OF BEATRICE BOVA NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SELL IMMOVABLE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to any interested person, including a credi‐ tor of the estate, a Peti‐ tion for Authority to sell the immovable property owned by this estate will be submitted to the Court.

Louisiana law gives any successor or interested person a lim‐ ited delay period to op‐ pose what the Petition and its supporting docu‐ ments allege or propose and the reasons for the opposition, seven (7) cal‐ endar days from the last newspaper publication date of this notice. If the clerk of court does not receive any proof of op‐ position after the legal delay ends, the Court may grant the Petition without changes.

196586 Aug, 6, 27, 2t $55.44

WBR Public Notices

WBR Legal Notices

Public Notice West Baton Rouge Parish Zoning Commission Master Plan Change

Request: Rezone approx..

13.73 ac from R-MH, C-1.3, & AG to I-2.

Owner: TMI Enterprise LLC Applicant: Edward Bradford Address: 053400003500 HWY 190 Port Allen LA 70767 Property Description: PJ #26-0021: as described by the WBR Assessor site: TRACT K190-B2-A CONT 13.703 AC IN SECS 38, 82 & 83 T7S R12E 34-35 The West Baton Rouge Zoning Commission will hold a PUBLIC HEARING relative to the rezoning request.

Date: Tuesday, August 18, 2026 Time: 5:30 pm

WBR Public Notices Meet/Hear/Min

Date: Thursday, August 13,2026 Time: 5:30pm Public hearings will be held at the West Baton Rouge Parish Govern‐ mental Building, 880 N. Alexander, Port Allen, LA 70767.

Published in The Advo‐ cate for Two (2) consecu‐ tive weeks from 07/30/2026 through 08/13/2026.

194760-JUL 30-AUG 13 $169

WBR Public Notices Sheriff Sales

SHERIFF’S SALE CYPRESS LOAN SERVIC‐ ING, LLC VS. DEMETRA GLOVER DOCKET NO: 51163 18TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT WEST BATON ROUGE PARISH STATE OF LOUISIANA By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale, di‐ rected by the Honorable The Eighteenth Judicial District Court, for the Parish of West Baton Rouge, in the above enti‐ tled and numbered cause, I have seized and proceed to sell by public auction, on the front steps of the West Baton Rouge Courthouse, 850 8th Street, Port Allen, Louisiana on WEDNES‐ DAY, AUGUST 12, 2026 at 10:00 A.M., the following described property, to wit: A certain tract or parcel of land, together with all the buildings and im‐ provements thereon, and all the rights, ways, privi‐ leges, appurtenances and advantages there‐ unto belonging or in any‐ wise appertaining, situ‐ ated in West Baton Rouge Parish, State of Louisiana, being more fully designated as Lot 57 as shown on the official subdivision plat of West Palm Estates filed and recorded in Map Book 5, Map No. 138, records of West Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana, and having such dimensions and measurements as shown on said plat, refer‐ ence being herewith spe‐ cially made to said plat of survey for greater cer‐ tainty or description.

Which has the address of: 428 Key Biscayne Drive, Port Allen, LA 70767 Terms of Sale: Cash to the highest bidder WITH benefit of appraisement and according to law.

Attorney for the Plaintiff: LOGS Legal Group, LLP 3510 N. Causeway Blvd., Suite 600 Metairie, LA 70002 (504) 837-7622 Judicial Advertise‐ ment(s) will appear in THE ADVOCATE on the date(s) of: JULY 9, 2026 and AUGUST 6, 2026.

JEFF BERGERON, SHERIFF PARISH OF WEST BATON ROUGE BY: ANGIE DELAUNE, CIVIL DEPUTY $54.70

STAY INFORMED

SUBSCRIBE TODAY

The West Baton Rouge Parish Council will hold a PUBLIC HEARING relative to the rezoning request.

Date: Thursday, August 27, 2026 Time 5:30 pm Public hearings will be held at the West Baton Rouge Parish Govern‐ mental Building, 880 N. Alexander, Port Allen, LA 70767

SEVEN DAYS

WEST BATON ROUGE PARISH P&Z COMMISSION ALL MEETING INFORMA‐ TION INCLUDING MIN‐ UTES AND VIDEOS CAN BE FOUND ON OUR WEBSITE WBRPARISH.ORG UNDER THE AGENDA AND MIN‐ UTES TAB. Ordinances in full can be found on our website under Notice of Public https:// Hearings…… www.wbrparish.org/720/ Notice-of-PublicHearings

HOME DELIVERED

Publish The Advocate Three (3) Times: 7/30/2026, 8/6/2026, & 8/13/2026 194039 July 30, Aug. 6, 13, 2026 3t $77.97

WBR Public Notices Meet/Hear/Min

LOUISIANA OWNED

PUBLIC NOTICE --WBR NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING: CONDEMNA‐ TION Pursuant to Parish Code Chapter 109-42 “Derelict Structures”, the follow‐ ing properties have been condemned by the Parish President.

Address: 1234 REV MAN‐ UAL ST. PORT ALLEN LA 70767 (File #26-0036) Owner: LUELLA MILLS PARKER Legal Description: LOT 4 MARIONNEAUX SD 53A53CB188 E62(MAP FILED IN ORGINAL CB61 E111) (PLAT MAP 69) A PUBLIC HEARING will be held by the West Baton Rouge PARISH COUNCIL to ratify the condemnation order. The owner of the structure may appeal the decision of the Parish President by appearing at this meeting of the PARISH COUNCIL to show cause why the structure should not be condemned.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY

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The Advocate ■ theadvocate.com ■ Thursday, August 6, 2026 ■ 5A

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El-Sayed win is breakthrough for progressives Senate race close in battleground state of Michigan

BY JOEY CAPPELLETTI Associated Press

DETROIT — Abdul El-Sayed, a former public health official who harnessed Democratic frustration with the party establishment, narrowly defeated Rep. Haley Stevens in Michigan’s U.S. Senate primary, setting up a crucial test for progressives in a key battleground state.

El-Sayed will face Republican Mike Rogers, a former congressman, in November in a race that will help determine control of the Senate. His first challenge will be unifying Democratic factions after a bitter primary that offered divergent visions for a party desperate for a path back to power.

The margin was extraordinarily close. El-Sayed walked off the stage at his Tuesday night election party without declaring victory, and the race was not called until early Wednesday, after nearly all ballots statewide had been counted.

At the time The Associated Press declared him the winner, El-Sayed led Stevens by 14,893 votes — just under 1 percentage point — out of more than 1.5 million ballots counted, the most in recent state history.

The political significance of the result, however, extends well be-

yond the slim margin.

“Abdul’s victory was, in my opinion, the most extraordinary victory that I can think of in modern American politics,” Sen. Bernie Sanders, a leader of the progressive movement who was an early supporter of El-Sayed’s candidacy, said Wednesday.

El-Sayed, 41, has never held elected office and entered the race seven years after losing Michigan’s Democratic gubernatorial primary by more than 20 percentage points. This time, running on an unapologetically progressive agenda, he overcame more than $60 million in outside spending and an opponent backed by many of Michigan’s top Democrats, including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and outgoing Sen. Gary Peters.

Extraordinary trajectory After losing the 2018 Democratic primary for governor to Whitmer, El-Sayed retreated into the political wilderness. He started a podcast, wrote a book and became a regular presence on YouTube and television, slowly building a following while waiting for a political opening he did not know would come.

It arrived when Peters made the surprise announcement that he would not seek reelection, creating an open Senate seat in one of the country’s most competitive states.

El-Sayed launched his campaign in April 2025 with a staff of four.

In his victory speech Wednesday, he recalled the small rooms that

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON

Abdul El-Sayed departs following a news conference Wednesday in Detroit shortly after winning the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate in Michigan. defined its early months.

“Back in April, I remember talking to a room of five people,” he said. “It was an opportunity for us to share an honest conversation about pain and about purpose. And I’ve been able to have 500 more of those discussions over the past 15 months.”

El-Sayed said he visited 110 cities and hosted more than 500 events. His volunteer network grew alongside the campaign, eventually reaching 12,000 people, according to his campaign.

The campaign also embraced a media strategy that reflected

El-Sayed’s years outside elected office, aggressively pursuing attention across traditional outlets, podcasts and online platforms.

Some appearances, including multiple interviews with controversial streamer Hasan Piker, drew swift backlash.

‘Movement of the many’ On July 5, state Sen. Mallory McMorrow ended her campaign, leaving a two-person race between El-Sayed and Stevens. Soon after, El-Sayed stood before door-knocking volunteers in a Grand Rapids park and declared that “we have a

chance of winning this election.”

“More importantly, we have a chance at winning our politics,” ElSayed said. “What we’re doing is building a movement of the many against the money.”

In the final days, El-Sayed leaned even further into the strategy that had helped build his campaign.

He marched through downtown Detroit alongside social media influencers, then attended a private pool party with content creators, including Piker.

On election day, El-Sayed did three interviews with content creators at Detroit’s Eastern Market before doing three more with traditional news organizations, including The Associated Press and MS NOW. Hours later, the campaign that had once struggled to fill small rooms packed Detroit’s Majestic Theatre for an election night party.

“Abdul El-Sayed is now the tip of the spear for the theory that shakeup-the-system economic fighters can win in swing states,” said Adam Green, co-founder of the Progressive Change Campaign Committee, who campaigned alongside ElSayed in the final days.

El-Sayed campaigned on “Medicare for All,” ending military aid to Israel and campaign finance reform. He had support from progressive leaders including Sanders and U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who framed the race as both a grassroots movement and a broader fight against the establishment and big-money spending.

Man arrested at Trump’s golf course faces weapons charges

By The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — A California man who was arrested at President Donald Trump’s Los Angeles-area golf course was pretending to be part of the security detail preparing for Trump’s visit and had a stash of illegal weapons in his car and home, authorities said.

Jeanine John Taele, 38, was due in court Wednesday on a federal weapons charge but the hearing was canceled. He is being held at a downtown LA jail on state charges, according to booking records and not yet in federal custody, said a spokesperson for the U.S. attor-

ney’s office.

Taele was arrested Sunday at Trump National Golf Club in Rancho Palos Verdes, two days before Trump visited for a fundraising dinner.

Taele was first seen on the property Friday, walking throughout the course wearing an earpiece and taking photos and videos of federal agents’ activities as they conducted a security assessment, according to a federal criminal complaint.

Taele drove away but then returned to the course Sunday. He approached federal agents and said he was employed by the State Department and was there for a

security detail. Taele said he had a loaded weapon in his vehicle and was arrested after it was searched, according to federal officials. Authorities also found a 16-round magazine with ammunition in his pocket.

He already appeared in court on state weapons charges and a second-degree robbery charge for an unrelated incident.

Taele is charged federally with possession of an unregistered short-barreled rifle that was found at this home, authorities said. The complaint alleges the firearm is an illegally modified AR-style rifle with a barrel that was cut down to

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10 inches from 14 inches.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said a search of his pickup truck in the club parking lot turned up a loaded 9 mm pistol, binoculars and a badge that read “security protection agent,” according to federal prosecutors.

Law enforcement searched his home in Downey on Monday and found a rifle and other firearms, magazines and ammunition, body armor and notebooks with “concerning statements,” federal authorities said. No details about the statements were released.

“Mr. Taele’s troubling behavior at the President’s public golf

course merely days before the President was expected to arrive raised serious red flags for law enforcement,” Patrick Grandy, the assistant director in charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles office, said in a statement.

In brief remarks about Taele’s arrest to Fox News on Tuesday, Trump said “only consequential presidents” are targeted, “and I am definitely consequential,” which he said brought him “a little solace.”

Taele was a corporal in the U.S. Marines who was deployed to Iraq in 2008 and Afghanistan in 2010 and worked as a warehouse clerk, according to the U.S. Marine Corps.

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6A ■ Thursday,August 6, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

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BUSINESS T H E A D V O C AT E.C O M/news/business

DOW 54,349.12 263.24 0.49%

NASDAQ 26,363.44 -221.55 -0.83%

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FROM WIRE REPORTS

Appeals court may refuse defamation suit

SCARBOROUGH, Maine — A federal appeals court signaled that it might not allow a lawsuit brought by fishing industry businesses and trade groups against a California aquarium to proceed because of the case’s potential impact on free speech.

The New England-based plaintiffs sued the Monterey Bay Aquarium for defamation after the aquarium’s Seafood Watch conservation program placed American and Canadian lobster on its do-not-eat “red list” in 2022. The Boston-based 1st U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is deciding whether the lawsuit can go forward.

One of the appellate judges, Judge Seth Aframe, said during oral arguments on July 27 that it doesn’t strike him as a defamation claim and that he finds the case troubling “from a First Amendment perspective.”

“The more you broaden the class of people that fall within this, the more it feels like everybody can sue,” Aframe said.

Seafood Watch placed lobster on its list of seafood to avoid because of the threat posed to rare whales, such as the North Atlantic right whale, by potential entanglement in fishing gear.

Electronic Arts closes $55 billion sale CHICAGO — Video game giant Electronic Arts officially has new owners.

The California-based maker of popular titles like “Battlefield” and “The Sims” announced Tuesday that it closed the $55 billion sale of its business to Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund PIF, investment firm Silver Lake Partners and Affinity Partners, which is run by U.S. President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.

The acquisition’s price tag is the largest-ever for a buyout funded by private equity.

And wider shifts to the gaming world could be on the way now that the deal is complete.

In a statement, CEO Andrew Wilson said EA and its new owners would “invest boldly, accelerate innovation, and build the next generation of games and experiences for the hundreds of millions of players and fans who inspire us every day.” And Turqi Alnowaiser, deputy governor and head of international investments at PIF — which already held a minority stake in EA for five years — also pledged to “invest heavily in EA’s growth,” including through the use of artificial intelligence in game development.

Japan’s Honda reports robust results TOKYO — Honda’s profit for the fiscal first quarter more than doubled from a year ago, as the Japanese automaker continues to tackle a turnaround from the first full year loss in its history.

Tokyo-based Honda Motor Co. said Wednesday its AprilJune profit totaled 456.9 billion yen ($2.9 billion), up from 196.6 billion yen for the same period a year ago.

Quarterly sales rose 13.5% to $38 billion, as vehicles sold well in the U.S. and India, according to the maker of the Accord sedan, Fit subcompact and Super Cub motorcycle.

Honda previously recorded a $2.7 billion loss for the fiscal year ended in March, acknowledging heavy costs for its electric-vehicle plans, which didn’t measure up to the original ambitions, partly because of U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies.

Analysts say many consumers weren’t ready to go electric.

Honda has abandoned many of its plans for EV models.

The Trump administration has pulled back on incentive programs for EVs and withheld money to states wanting to add more EV charging stations, even as gas prices have soared over the war in Iran.

Trump’s tariffs on imported autos and auto parts, lowered to 15% from the initial 25%, also worked to dent Honda’s profitability.

S&P 500 7,723.55 -12.97 -0.17%

EURO 1.1556 0.0027 0.23%

CRUDE OIL 75.22 -0.55 -0.73%

GOLD 4,245.80 150.40 3.67%

6-MO T-BILLS 3.95 -0.01 -0.25%

30-YR T-BONDS 5.17 -0.01 -0.12%

U.S. stocks remain near records Wall Street expects profit growth of 50%

BY DAMIAN J. TROISE Associated Press

NEW YORK — Stocks meandered to a mixed finish on Wall Street Wednesday and remained close to their records, while oil prices held steady.

The uncertain trading on Wall Street followed two days of big gains that gave the week and August a strong start. Several big

technology companies slumped, though, ultimately weighing down the market.

“The coiled spring investors have been waiting for has finally released, with the S&P 500 Index surging to record highs for the first time in two months,” said Mark Hackett, chief market strategist at Nationwide, in a report.

The market has been generally rising as companies head into the closing stretch of their latest round of earnings reports with sharp overall gains. Three-quar-

ters of the companies within the S&P 500 have reported results so far, and Wall Street expects profit growth of 50% when they are all finished.

The Walt Disney Co. rose 3.6% after easily beating Wall Street’s profit forecasts, helped by a $1 billion box office haul from “Toy Story 5” and theme park revenue.

Booking Holdings jumped 6.6% after reporting that strong travel demand drove profit and revenue growth during its most recent quarter.

Elon Musk’s SpaceX fell 13.6% following the release late Tuesday of its first quarterly report as a public company, which showed that it sharply boosted spending on artificial intelligence. The company did help give semiconductor giant Nvidia a 3.4% boost after announcing it would exclusively use that company’s chips for its artificial intelligence technology.

Treasury yields slipped in the bond market. The yield on the 10year Treasury slipped to 4.61% from 4.63% from late Tuesday.

Rising temperatures could keep more flights from taking off on time Clear blue skies don’t always mean smooth flying

BY RIO YAMAT and M.K. WILDEMAN Associated Press

LAS VEGAS — Airline passengers know to expect possible flight delays when weather forecasts call for thunderstorms, heavy snow or strong wind. The omens are less obvious on a hot summer day with clear skies.

Yet extreme heat also disrupts flights and travel plans. On the hottest days, thinner air can make it harder for aircraft to get off the ground safely. Airlines may have to lighten the load by removing passengers or cargo, or carrying less fuel.

The snag is well known at airports in desert climates around the world, from the U.S. Southwest to the Middle East. But even less extreme heat can create similar challenges at airports with higher elevations or shorter runways. Researchers say human-caused climate change could make such disruptions more common.

With heat waves searing parts of the United States and Europe this summer, Las Vegas illustrated how extreme heat can interfere with air travel. American Airlines offered compensation to customers who voluntarily gave up their seats on a July 24 flight from Harry Reid International Airport after temperatures reached 114 degrees Fahrenheit.

The airline described reducing a plane’s weight as a standard industry practice in hot-weather destinations when conditions require it to ensure a safe takeoff. The explanation comes down to physics.

Hot air is thinner than cool air, making it harder for a plane’s wings to generate lift and for jet engines to generate the thrust needed for takeoff, explained Ross Aimer, a retired United Airlines captain and CEO of Aero Consulting Experts.

“There is a science behind all this,” Aimer said. “You can’t deny the science of flight and what it takes for an airplane to operate.”

Airplanes struggle in hot, thin air Aimer likens the effect of high temperatures on airplane performance to athletes competing at high altitude. During this year’s World Cup, foreign teams competing in Mexico City — located more than 7,300 feet above sea level — had to contend with thinner air that can leave players fatigued more quickly.

“Just like human beings, jet engines require lots of cool, dense air to perform well,” Aimer said.

Before every departure, pilots and airlines determine whether an aircraft can safely take off by calculating several key factors, including the airplane’s weight, the airport’s elevation and the outside temperature, said Alan Price, a retired Delta Air Lines captain.

Aircraft at higher elevations are already operating in thinner air, so temperatures don’t have to climb as high to affect takeoff performance. Denver, for example, sits

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By MATT yORK

A jet takes flight as heat ripples radiate from the runway at Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix in 2023. Researchers say extreme heat waves can disrupt flights due to thinner air. more than 5,000 feet above sea level.

Runway length also matters. Airliners need room to build enough speed for takeoff when temperatures soar, and shorter runways leave less distance to do that, Price said. That’s one reason airports such as New York’s LaGuardia and Washington’s Reagan National can be more likely to face takeoff restrictions or weight limits during very hot weather.

If the pilot’s preflight math shows an aircraft cannot safely depart as planned, airlines may choose to reduce cargo, carry less fuel and make a refueling stop later, wait for cooler temperatures or ask passengers to volunteer for a later flight.

But there comes a point when removing weight isn’t enough to make a safe takeoff possible.

“At some point, the numbers just don’t make sense,” Aimer said. “You could roll down a runway as long as you want, and you still can’t take off.”

planes taking off from four European airports would have to shed the weight equivalent of 10 passengers per flight by 2065.

While triple-digit temperatures come with desert living, the kind of hot days that might affect flights are becoming more frequent in both Phoenix and Las Vegas.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has averaged 43 days each year since 2020 when the temperature reached at least 110 F, according to an analysis of weather station data by The Associated Press. The number of such days increased gradually over several decades before surging in the 2020s to more than triple the average during the middle of the last century.

At Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas, temperatures reached that threshold an average of about 18 days a year between 2020 and 2025 — more than double the annual average during the 1940s through 1960s, the AP analysis found.

Delays could become more common

Safety determines when to reduce weight

The Federal Aviation Administration does not set a single maximum temperature for takeoff. Instead, the FAA says, operating limits vary based on an aircraft’s make and model, its weight and the airport’s altitude.

A 2017 study by researchers from Columbia University, NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies and the Logistics Management Institute projected that some airports could see weight restrictions on 10% to 30% of flights departing during the hottest part of the day by midcentury if greenhouse gas emissions continued to rise. The study examined 19 airports around the world and found that airports with short runways, high elevations and hotter climates would be affected most.

A more recent study concluded that current climate prediction models indicated

Airlines have dealt with these issues for years. During a stretch of scorching heat in June 2016, American canceled several round-trip regional flights between Palm Springs, California, and Phoenix. The following year, the airline canceled dozens of regional flights in Arizona as temperatures in Phoenix climbed toward 120 F. In July 2018, some airlines bumped passengers at Denver International Airport to later flights as temperatures reached 98 F, KDVR-TV in Denver reported.

Delta Air Lines also asked for volunteers to step off a plane in Las Vegas during an excessive heat warning in July 2023 because of weight restrictions tied to the extreme temperatures. That flight was ultimately canceled after passengers spent hours aboard the aircraft in the heat.

Regulators to consider new safety requirements for electric doors

BY CHASE HUNTER

The Mercury News (TNS) Nearly two years after three young people died of smoke inhalation inside a burning Tesla Cybertruck in Piedmont California, as a friend struggled to open its doors, federal regulators are considering new safety requirements intended to prevent occupants from becoming trapped when electronic latches lose power.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced last week that it had granted a November petition asking the agency to consider a new federal standard requiring a “robust and obvious” door egress system in all motor vehicles. The decision begins a rulemaking process but does not

guarantee that the agency will ultimately adopt a new standard.

“It is imperative that NHTSA moves swiftly through the rulemaking process to develop and implement new federal door egress safety standards that will protect future vehicle occupants,” said Andrew McDevitt, the attorney for the Nelson family whose son Jack died in the Piedmont crash.

“But these will arrive far too late to save the lives of Jack Nelson, Krysta Tsukahara, Jeffrey and Michelle Bauer, and so many others killed and seriously injured

by Tesla’s completely inexcusable door design.”

The Bauers were among five people killed in a November 2024 Tesla Model S crash in Wisconsin. McDevitt also represents their family.

Tesla did not respond to questions from the Bay Area News Group regarding the federal agency’s review.

Since 2018, NHTSA has received more than 140 complaints about Tesla doors becoming stuck, failing to open or otherwise malfunctioning.

NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation also opened an investigation in September 2025 into approximately 174,000 model-year 2021 Tesla Model Y vehicles after receiving nine complaints that exterior doors became inoperable when the vehicles lost low-voltage power.

The complaints generally involved parents getting out of their vehicles and then being unable to reopen a door to reach a child in the back seat. In four cases, an owner

broke a window to regain entry.

NHTSA found that current federal standards do not regulate the placement or labeling of manual releases and concluded that further investigation was unlikely to establish a safety defect. The agency said the broader issue was better addressed through the separate rulemaking process.

Rep. Robin Kelly, D-Ill., introduced the legislation in January.

It would require new vehicles to have accessible manual releases for each door, establish labeling requirements and ensure first responders can enter vehicles after a loss of power.

The House Energy and Commerce Committee approved the bill in May, sending it to the full House for possible consideration

The Advocate ■ theadvocate.com ■ Thursday, August 6, 2026 ■ 7A

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HOPEFULS

Continued from page 1A from fellow legislators.

Miguez did not return requests for comment Wednesday.

Despite the uncertainty over whether the state senator will make a bid for Congress, one of his potential opponents — and a colleague in the Senate — fired shots at Miguez after filing to run for the 6th District.

“I’m not new to this district, and I’m not new to fighting for the people of this district,” state Sen. Rick Edmonds, R-Baton Rouge, told members of the media at the Secretary of State’s Office.

Miguez “is not from here,” Edmonds said. “He doesn’t understand our communities and issues.”

Edmonds said he had spoken with the White House and was confident Miguez would not get

CHARGED

Continued from page 1A to commit public bribery as the ones Cole faces, plus two separate counts of money laundering.

City-parish records show TJ Jackson and his company — Broad Innovation Market Firm — were paid hundreds of thousands of dollars between 2021 and 2024 through various contracts, including some related to former Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome’s scrutinized “Safe, Hopeful, Healthy BR” program.

According to multiple sources, Cole and TJ Jackson have long been close friends and are members of the same fraternity.

Continued from page 1A without premature judgment or distraction.”

They promised that daily school operations “will proceed without interruption.”

“Our dedicated teachers, administrators and support staff remain entirely focused on preparing our classrooms, uplifting our students, and delivering the high-quality education our families deserve,” Steward and Lewis wrote.

Cole faces two counts of conspiracy to commit public bribery, two counts of money laundering, and a count of malfeasance in office.

Cole is two years into a four-year contract as school superintendent with an annual salary of $285,000.

His contract expires June 30, 2028.

The School Board last year gave Cole a high overall score when it

Continued from page 1A other side of the room, where the defendants were flanked by their defense attorneys.

“Folks, you will never be as close to three cold-blooded killers as are in this courtroom today,” Clayton said.

Harris, who previously worked for Rilonda Brooks’ trucking company, was injured when she allegedly dragged him along the side of a dump truck after she became angry with him, Clayton said. The injury resulted in emergency surgery and a towering medical debt for Harris.

On Aug. 15, 2024, Baton Rouge injury law firm Dudley DeBosier sent a letter to Rilonda Brooks stating that Harris would be suing her and her company for expenses related to his injury.

The Brooks siblings had received more than $4.9 million in December 2023 from a settlement with a trucking company in Beaumont, Texas, after it was held responsible for an accident that killed their mother, according to court records.

Clayton alleges that these occurrences motivated Rilonda Brooks to plot the killing.

Clayton also presented the jury with a detailed timeline of the day before, the day of and the days following Harris’ death, which included timestamps of phone calls between the siblings, Hicks and a fourth person, Javadda Lewis.

Lewis, who was on the run for more than a year after the killing, was arrested

nounced her candidacy but did not qualify on Wednesday. Qualifying runs through Friday.

The newly-drawn 5th District covers northeast Louisiana and is currently represented by U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow, who is running for U.S. Senate. She won the Republican primary and is heavily favored to win the general election in November.

Also running in the 5th District is Austin Magee, a Republican from Franklinton, and Dan McKay, a Democrat from Bunkie.

In the 6th District, Edmonds is the heaviest hitter in the field so far.

Charlton Meginley, secretary of the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs, is considering entering the race, though he has not announced a decision yet, a spokesperson said.

Monique Appeaning, a Republican from Baton Rouge who served

as an aide to Mayor-President Sid Edwards but departed after she was put on leave for being accused of bullying employees and using slurs, also filed to run.

Larry Davis III, a Republican from Denham Springs who declined to say where he worked, citing “ethics,” also is running.

Another Republican candidate is Michael Mebreur, of St. Francisville. Mebreur has worked as a traveling medical professional and is obtaining a master’s degree in financial economics from LSU, according to his website.

Louisiana’s other congressional seats are held by strong incumbents — and some of the biggest names in politics, such as U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, who represents the 4th District, and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, who represents the 1st District.

Both are Republicans, as is U.S.

issued for all three.

Cole, 52, is the latest to be indicted as part of a wide investigation by Murrill’s office into alleged corruption in Baton Rouge government.

Current council member Cleve Dunn Jr. was charged in January on a slew of corruption and conspiracy charges, including bribery, money laundering, theft and others.

Dunn entered a not guilty STAFF FILE PHOTO By PATRICK DENNIS plea in Baton Rouge court on LaMont Cole served on the East Baton Rouge Parish Metro July 1.

Council before becoming schools superintendent for the Courtney Scott, who was parish. a top staffer for Weston Broome, was indicted in Jackson also had contracts charged earlier this year February alongside Vefor “Blight Community Out- with theft and conspiracy ronica Mathis, who was a reach,” in which he was paid to commit theft related to contractor paid funds from to identify blighted proper- Baton Rouge transit system the mayor’s Safe, Hopeful, ty in Cole’s council district contracts that prosecutors Healthy initiative. say were fraudulent.

Scott is accused of receiveach month.

Arrest warrants have been ing nearly $200,000 in kickThe Jacksons were

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Trump’s endorsement in the 6th District; Miguez did not respond to questions about that claim.

But Edmonds also said he was unsure whether Miguez was running, or whether he would choose the 5th or 6th District.

Because of last-minute changes to the voting maps, the congressional races will be open primaries.

The top two vote-getters, regardless of party, will head to a runoff in December.

On Monday, four Republicans and one Democrat filed to run in the 5th District, and four Republicans filed to run in the 6th District.

The better-known contenders for the 5th District included three state legislators. Two are Republicans from Monroe: state Sen. Stewart Cathey Jr. and state Rep. Michael Echols. Rep. Gabe Firment, R-Pollock, also signed up to run.

Misti Cordell, the chair of the Board of Regents, has also an-

evaluated his performance in his first year as superintendent, the highest score it has awarded a superintendent since 2007.

The indictment comes at an important time for Cole and the school system. Thursday is the first day of the new school year for students. On Tuesday, Cole held a rousing back-to-school convocation where he was cheered by an audience of nearly 6,000 school employees, but also admitted that the investigation by the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office has made this “one of the most challenging times in my life.”

In an interview Wednesday, School Board member Patrick Martin V struck a similar note as Steward and Lewis.

“My expectation is that he would continue to serve as superintendent,” Martin said. “He’s been doing a fantastic job. There is absolutely no reason to think there have been any financial impropri-

while hiding in a trailer in Mississippi. He will serve as the state’s star witness because he allegedly drove Hicks to Harris’ home.

Clayton presented a series of text messages between Lewis, Hicks and David Brooks from the day and hours before the fatal shooting, saying “David Brooks issued the final execution order.”

“Boy, do we have a whole lot more for you, because I’m telling you, sometimes it’s not just the crime but the cover-up,” Clayton said.

The defense attorneys each took turns pleading their clients’ innocence to the jury.

Victor Woods, who is representing Hicks, said the only reason Hicks was involved was that he made the mistake of trusting Lewis for a ride.

“The state’s case against Johnnie Hicks is based upon statements of Javadda Lewis and things taken out of context. Let’s say more correctly: It’s based upon the lies of Javadda Lewis,” Woods said.

Lewis has been interviewed by investigators many times and has provided contradictory statements almost every time, Woods said.

He told the jury it would not be reasonable to listen to his witness testimony and take everything he says as the truth.

Woods told the jury no recorded phone calls or physical evidence prove Hicks knew the Brooks siblings or had anything to do with their company.

Hicks was in prison for five years for armed robbery and was released three months before Harris’ killing. Woods said there was no way he

eties under his tenure. We have made great strides academically.”

That said, Martin continued, “we certainly take the indictment and the facts of the situation very seriously,” and said he may change his views depending on how Cole’s case proceeds.

Martin, an attorney and a former board vice president, said the indictment is not a surprise — he said he heard rumors for months — but Cole is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Martin said what he has seen so far involves Cole’s eight years as an elected member of the Metro Council.

While Martin said he is happy with Cole’s management of the school system, he is talking to fellow board members about having a third person — potentially Deputy Superintendent Adam Smith — review and sign off on district contracts along with the superintendent and the board president to help reassure the public.

would have any incentive to commit a murder for people he had no ties to.

“A desperate person’s selfserving story is not proof beyond a reasonable doubt,” Woods concluded.

David Brooks’ attorney, Kathryn Jakuback, pushed back on the narrative that her client had anything to do with the crime. She acknowledged David Brooks is not a great person, but said his only crimes were using and selling drugs.

According to police interviews, Lewis said David Brooks promised him a kilo of cocaine for driving Hicks to the victim’s house. During the night of the killing, Lewis is seen on Flock cameras driving from Mississippi to David Brooks’ house in Point Coupee Parish, where he was supposed to be picking up 3 kilos of cocaine.

David Brooks allegedly promised Lewis an extra kilo of coke for driving Hicks to kill Harris.

Jakupack said the only nefarious thing going on was a drug deal, not a murder plot.

“David Brooks made very poor choices. They were arguably some of the worst choices that a person can make when put in an impossible situation. But buying cocaine, buying drugs is not murdering someone,” Jakuback said.

According to surveillance footage, Lewis and Hicks arrived at David Brooks’ house in the early morning, shortly after Harris was killed.

Jakupack said David Brooks began to panic when they gave him the alleged murder weapon, saying he had no idea what was going on.

Jakupack said that the

backs from Mathis. She also has pleaded not guilty.

On Tuesday, a week after The Advocate reported that he was the subject of a grand jury investigation, Cole addressed the matter at the school district’s annual back-to-school convocation gathering, calling it “one of the most challenging times of my life.”

Sources familiar with the investigation say the grand jury has been reviewing evidence against Cole for several months.

East Baton Rouge Parish Mayor-President Sid Edwards released his own statement hours after Cole was indicted and said he believes everyone is entitled to the presumption of innocence and full due process.

“Allegations should be de-

“We do need to take some steps as a board to make sure that there is no hint of impropriety and that we are safeguarding the district’s finances,” Martin said.

Board member Nathan Rust was more circumspect. Rust said he first heard of the investigation when the news broke last week and knows few details.

“It’s a little too early to start making decisions about something we have to learn more about,” he said.

Rust said as a board member he is focused right now on having a successful start of the new school year. He said he is confident the board will make the right decisions on the superintendent’s future going forward.

“It’s something we are going to work together as a board to determine what is going to best for our kids and our staff,” Rust said.

Board member Mike Gaudet said he has no comment at this time.

state’s case against David Brooks specifically is just a series of snapshots, and the state has failed to give the jury a clear picture of what actually happened.

Finally, Rilonda Brooks’ defense attorney Harry Daniels argued that his client should not be responsible for a crime simply because her brother may have been.

He alleges David Brooks, Hicks and Lewis are the sole suspects responsible for the death of Harris.

He told the jury that despite all the evidence that will

Rep. Clay Higgins, who holds the 3rd District seat.

None of those candidates are likely to be unseated.

Nor is U.S. Rep. Troy Carter, a Democrat who represents the 2nd District. That area is now the state’s only majority-Black district and expected to be the only Democratic seat after the state Legislature redrew the 6th District.

Carter, Higgins and Johnson all qualified Wednesday. Scalise has not yet officially signed up to run.

Lauren Jewett, of Metairie, a Democrat, and Randall Arrington, of Ponchatoula, a Republican, signed up to run against Scalise.

Walter “Rocky” Beach, who is from Gonzales and is not affiliated with any party, qualified to run in Carter’s district. Meanwhile, Democrat Conrad Cable, a farmer from Farmerville, and Republican Mike Nichols, of Pitkin, are challenging Johnson.

cided in a court of law, not in the court of public opinion,” Edwards said. “At the same time, moments like this understandably test the public’s confidence in government.”

The mayor noted that the matters under investigation took place before he was in office and said he is trying to make sure his constituents have confidence on how local government is currently operating.

“The people of East Baton Rouge Parish deserve a government they can trust,” Edwards said. “My administration will continue doing everything in its power to ensure that their government operates with integrity, transparency, and accountability every single day.”

The indictment of Cole came on the same day that candidates for the School Board began qualifying for the upcoming Nov. 3 election.

Qualifying ends Friday.

Sixteen people qualified Wednesday for nine seats. At least three seats are open — Mark Bellue is term-limited, Gaudet long ago said he wasn’t running again, and Dadrius Lanus on Tuesday said he plans not to run for a third term.

A veteran educator with 28 years of experience, Cole has spent half of that time as chief academic officer for CSAL Inc., a Baton Rougebased charter school network. He devoted the first half of his career working for the public school system, including stints as principal of Capitol and Park Forest middle schools.

Cole represented District 7 on the Metro Council for two terms, from 2016 to 2024, and served as mayor pro tempore.

be shown to them throughout the trial, not one shred shows Rilonda Brooks told David Brooks to hire Hicks and Lewis to kill Harris.

“This is a simple case of trust and betrayal. We trust that our loved ones will not commit a crime that will have us falsely accused and on trial for murder. We equally trust that, if our loved ones do commit a crime, that we won’t be falsely accused,” Daniels said.

Daniels told the jury that some of the evidence might be suspicious but urged

them to dig deeper and question everything the state will present.

For instance, Daniels addressed the state’s narrative about Rilonda Brooks being the mastermind. He argued that if she were aware of what was going on, she would have turned off the cameras in her home that caught Lewis and Hicks driving to Harris’ home.

“Rilonda Brooks is seated at that table because of the actions and the betrayal of her brother David Brooks,” Daniels said.

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8A ■ Thursday, August 6, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

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Trump pushes false claims that pool was vandalized

BY JOSH BOAK Associated Press

WASHINGTON — Jeanine Pirro this week found out there is a tradeoff between loyalty to President Donald Trump and being loyal to reality.

The U.S. attorney for the District of Columbia — a fierce defender and decadeslong friend — openly refuted Trump’s claims of vandalism regarding one of his treasured construction projects in the nation’s capital, admitting in court filings that damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was due to shoddy workmanship.

The moment comes as the Republican president is struggling to convince Americans that they should believe what he is telling them about the economy, his agenda and his war on Iran before pivotal midterm elections in the fall — and reveals the inherent challenges for his team in delivering hard truths he does not want to hear. Trump has historically engaged in exaggeration, but this was a moment in which he wanted a U.S. citizen, Olympic canoeist David Hearn, to be indicted, tried and possibly imprisoned for the act of touching a chunk of sealant in the already damaged pool.

The White House said that Trump was not aware ahead of time that Pirro’s office would drop the charges.

Trump says he told Pirro he was “not happy” about her decision and that a video backed him up even though it is not clear from the footage shot at a distance that any property destruction occurred.

“Well I just think she was totally wrong,” Trump told reporters Tuesday night. “And everybody saw the vandalism.”

By publicly rebuking Pirro, Trump sent a message to other administration officials that he is not to be contradicted, regardless of what the facts show.

“He just blows it up like a keg of dynamite — it’s a form of intimidating employees to be in groupthink,” said Rice University professor Douglas Brinkley, a presidential historian. “‘If you work for me, you triple down.’ Never disagree with the boss, even in a small fractional way.”

Trump has faced withering criticism for launching the war with Iran without fully laying out the rationale for the public or considering that country’s ability to withstand intense bombing. Trump snubbed a housing bill to address the affordability problems that

AP PHOTO By RAHMAT GUL

The Washington Monument is seen in the background of the drained Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on July 29 in Washington.

voters say are their biggest concern, letting it become law without his signature.

Some Republican lawmakers have suggested that Trump is being sheltered from facts or chalk up his choices to poor staff work.

During Trump’s second term, Republican senators including Ted Cruz of Texas and Thom Tillis of North Carolina have said Trump was receiving “bad advice,” a subtle critique of the president that shifts blame onto the aides who are

supposed to be providing him with credible information.

The latest blow-up “reflects a president who is struggling to shape the narrative as his national approval ratings remain extremely low,” said Julian Zelizer, a political history professor at Princeton University. “The more controversy that he faces — over Iran, the Epstein files, inflation and more — the less control he has and the stronger the chances that he will be forced to confront reality.”

The president continues to dwell on the 2020 election that he falsely claims to have won. He likes to boast that America is booming with an unverifiable $19.2 trillion in investments from foreign countries, even as economic growth has been meager over the prior three months.

The White House did not respond to questions about how aides brief the president and whether officials feel comfortable providing information that could contradict his public statements.

On the reflecting pool, Pirro pursued the investigation despite what defense lawyers say was abundant evidence from the outset that the damage at the pool was the result of preexisting problems that had nothing to do with Hearn.

A new court filing from Hearn’s team disputes the department’s contention that it only recently learned its case was flawed and urges a judge to not only dismiss it but to foreclose the possibility of ever resurrecting it.

“From day one, the case against Mr. Hearn was motivated by political considerations and devoid of adequate factual support,” defense lawyers wrote. “Those political pressures have not dissipated in the mere four weeks since the government saw fit to obtain the indictment.”

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche declined to discuss internal Justice Department conversations related to the case.

He deflected on the question of whether or not he supported the decision, acknowledging on one hand that Trump has “every right to be extraordinarily frustrated with damage done to our national monuments in this city and elsewhere” while simultaneously praising Pirro for what he asserted was “an unprecedented effort” to improve safety in the nation’s capital.

Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has supported Trump’s claims that vandals damaged the pool. That suggests that the conflict around this issue could continue to simmer.

N.M. sues DOJ and Blanche, saying they blocked its Epstein probe

BY SAVANNAH PETERS Associated Press

CEDAR CREST, N.M. — New Mexico’s attorney general sued the U.S. Department of Justice on Wednesday, accusing it of blocking the state from investigating sex crimes at Jeffrey Epstein’s former ranch near Santa Fe. The lawsuit in federal court in Washington, D.C., said the department and acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stonewalled New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez’s criminal investigation into Epstein and others, taking action that “harms victims and undermines the public interest.”

The lawsuit sought judicial intervention to force the federal government to turn over materials to New Mexico’s investigators. It was filed the same day that the New

Mexico House of Representatives released a report saying “those directly responsible for protecting New Mexicans relied on others to do their job,” including federal prosecutors in New York.

Epstein took his own life in a federal jail in New York City in August 2019 after he was denied bail on sex trafficking charges lodged against him when he was arrested a month earlier.

Epstein’s former girlfriend and close associate, Ghislaine Maxwell, is serving a 20-year prison sentence after her 2021 conviction on sex trafficking charges in New York. Witness testimony at Maxwell’s trial alleged she and Epstein had sexually abused women at his New Mexico ranch.

According to New Mexico’s lawsuit, state prosecutors “have faced sustained resistance” to the kind

of information-sharing common between state and federal investigators.

The Justice Department said in a statement it was not releasing some information the state requested because of federal court orders that ban disclosing victimidentifying information.

“New Mexico has provided no lawful basis to justify such sweeping disclosures,” the agency said.

The lawsuit claims the Justice Department and Blanche were hiding information about Epstein and his co-conspirators when the state is one of the few jurisdictions that may still be able to hold Epstein’s associates accountable or “provide some sense of justice to survivors.”

New Mexico’s attorney general said his office made 10 requests for key information that were ig-

nored or denied.

The interim report released by the New Mexico Survivors’ Truth Commission in part blamed federal prosecutors in Manhattan for a dearth of information about Epstein’s activities in New Mexico.

The commission said federal officials focused on Epstein’s misdeeds in New York, Palm Beach, Florida, and the Virgin Islands, while leaving his offenses in New Mexico unexamined.

But the commission also cited evidence gathered by federal prosecutors in New York to describe women who recounted suffering sexual abuse from Epstein at his Zorro Ranch.

At Maxwell’s trial, Annie Farmer, now a psychologist, testified she was 16 when she agreed to go to the ranch, where Maxwell touched her breast during a massage and

Epstein unexpectedly crawled into bed and pressed himself against her.

A group of Epstein victims and victims’ family members accused Blanche in a statement of “continuing to protect abusers” by withholding the information sought by New Mexico.

Epstein purchased his expansive property in Stanley, New Mexico, a sparsely populated ranching community about 30 miles south of Santa Fe, in 1993 from former Democratic Gov. Bruce King and built a hilltop mansion with a private airstrip and helipad.

The property was sold by Epstein’s estate in 2023 to the family of Don Huffines, a Republican recently appointed Texas’ state comptroller. In a February social media post, Huffines said his family plans to operate a Christian retreat there.

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1BN

BR group starts CEO search Economic Partnership ousted leader in May

BY TIMOTHY BOONE Staff writer

STAFF PHOTOS By PEARL SPURLOCK

The first day of classes in Livingston Parish marks the official opening of South Fork Junior High, a $22 million campus that gives Walker middle school students a permanent home.

‘STUDENTS ARE GOING

TO BE AMAZED’ Walker middle schoolers move into $22M campus

BY GIGI LIMAN Staff writer

When roughly 500 middle schoolers walk through the South Fork Junior High doors Thursday morning, they will get to call themselves something few students can: part of a school’s inaugural class.

The first day of classes in Livingston Parish marks the official opening of South Fork, a $22 million, 80,000-square-foot campus that gives Walker’s middle school students a permanent home — complete with a new name, a new mascot and a new motto.

“The students are going to be amazed at the changes in not just the facility, but the culture, the level of pride and community engagement,” Principal Jeffrey Watts said.

The campus features a new gymnasium and modern classrooms; outlets run throughout the building, and water fountains sit at nearly every corner. Among the marquee additions is a dedicated room for computer science, engineering and STEM projects, called the maker space. In the lab-style space, students will assemble microchips, build Rube Goldberg chain-reaction machines, work with 3D printers and even dissect sheep brains.

“I’m so excited for their environment to be able to reflect what they can achieve,” said Amber Harris, a seventh grade science teacher.

The Greater Baton Rouge Economic Partnership has launched a national search to find a new president and CEO, more than two and a half months after the organization forced out its former leader.

A 10-member search committee made up of members of the group’s board and executive committee will oversee the search. Highflyer, a Baton Rouge-based human resources company, will manage the search process.

Lori Melancon was removed as president and CEO in May after nearly two years in the position. During her tenure, the organization changed its name from the Baton Rouge Area Chamber to the Partnership.

Trey Godfrey, the organization’s senior vice president of policy and talent development, and Jayson Newell, senior vice president of business investment, have served as acting co-CEOs. Klein Kirby, chair of the group’s board and the search committee, said the organization wanted to take its time before beginning a search for a permanent leader.

“It took time to meet with staff and former board leaders, assemble a strong search committee, and engage a firm to support the search,” Kirby said in a statement. “Because we have confidence in the organization’s current leadership and staff, the board was able to give the process the careful consideration it warranted before opening it to the public.”

The organization is “looking for a leader with real ambition for the Baton Rouge area’s future,” Kirby said. “Someone with the vision, drive, and relationship-building skills to bring our region’s business, government, and community leaders together and push for meaningful growth.”

ä See SEARCH, page 2B

The new cafeteria at the recently built South Fork Junior High School facility in Denham Springs is seen on Tuesday.

Teacher Tina Fisher’s newly decorated classroom is seen on Tuesday.

St. George defers rezoning decision

Office building proposed for residential area

ä See AMAZED, page 2B

BY CLAIRE GRUNEWALD

Staff writer

Proposed Gonzales development advances

Panel recommends the commission’s recommen- culated over two decades. He submitted by Vince Diez Propsaid that with growth, he ex- erties, despite four objections dation. rezoning 36 acres The request, submitted by D. pects an increase of about 37% from nearby residents over

BY ANNAKATE FREELAND Staff writer

The Gonzales Planning and Zoning Commission voted Monday to recommend rezoning nearly 36 acres along West Orice Roth Road for a proposed townhome development, reversing a decision it made just a month earlier.

The move comes after the commission failed to make a recommendation on the request in July when a motion did not receive a second. The proposal later went before the City Council, which sent it back rather than act on it without

Daniels Construction, would allow the developer to begin preliminary plans for 68 townhomes and 18 single-family homes on vacant property along West Orice Roth Road.

The property is currently zoned for single-family residential and commercial uses.

At the commission’s July meeting, Chair Scott Hughes said the commissioners’ primary concern was the potential impact on traffic and public safety.

Jamie Setze, executive director of the Capital Region Planning Commission, addressed those concerns Monday, explaining some traffic data cal-

in daily traffic off the east side of Interstate 10 in 2046.

“It’s not going to lock it up, but I would say the growth is expected, and one thing you have to look at as a planning commission is if the growth doesn’t come to y’all, where exactly is it going?” Setze said.

If approved by the City Council, the rezoning would allow the developer to move forward with more detailed engineering, drainage and traffic studies before construction could begin.

The commission also voted to recommend approval of a special-use permit for a laydown yard at 630 W. New River Road

drainage concerns.

A laydown yard is a designated outdoor area used on construction or industrial sites to temporarily store heavy equipment and building materials.

Vince Diez, who owns the Gonzales-based real estate and commercial development business, told commissioners that only a portion of the property — approximately 300 feet by 125 feet — would be used as the laydown yard, sitting behind three other properties and away from the area of concern for flooding.

Both items will be up for final approval from the City Council on Monday.

A decision on the proposed rezoning of a residential area at the intersection of Perkins Road and Pecue Lane has been postponed after multiple residents spoke out against the move.

The St. George Zoning Commission on Monday discussed, and ultimately deferred, a proposal to rezone a residential tract to business use so Stuart & Company General Contractors could build an office.

Duane Mizell, the applicant and owner of Stuart & Company, said the location would be convenient for his employees and provide close access to the interstate.

“We’re outgrowing our current location; we’re looking to expand,” Mizell said.

He said the company would propose having two commercial buildings on the site but would focus on having one twostory office building for the time being.

Multiple residents of the area spoke out against the rezoning, fearing worsening traffic and drainage issues and concerns that the proposed plan does not meet the city’s criteria for commercial use.

Chris Eddy told the commission that he has lived on the property across from the

ä See REZONING, page 2B

2B ■ Thursday, August 6, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

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School supply giveaway draws large crowds 2nd annual Burreaux Back to School event gives away 1,100 backpacks

BY JOY HOLDEN Staff writer

On Tuesday, a line of families snaked out the door of the Elite Training Academy Sports Performance Complex in Baton Rouge all the way down to the parking lot for the second annual Burreaux Back to School Kickoff.

Families with babies, toddlers, preschoolers, elementary school kids and middle schoolers waited patiently to wind through the indoor football field and collect free school supplies and giveaways.

Donnie Laing, facility and security manager at Elite, estimated about 2,000 people attended the back-to-school event. The Joe Burrow Foundation passed out 1,100 clear backpacks, and community partners handed out supplies. Remaining supplies will be distributed to area schools.

The Elite parking lot at 5414 Burbank Drive was full, and cars were parked along the shoulder.

Robin Burrow, Joe’s Burrow’s mother and secretary and treasurer of the Joe Burrow Foundation,

dummy, threw footballs in a drill and ran through hurdles, an agility ladder and cones.

Community partners provided composition notebooks, lined paper, markers, crayons, tissues, hand sanitizer, folders, pencils, pens, rulers, water bottles and more. Some participating partners included Baton Rouge Area Youth Network, Baton Rouge Family Resource Group, Baton Rouge Youth Coalition, East Baton Rouge Parish Library, Front Yard Bikes, Girl Scouts, Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank, Jump Start, Mayor’s Office of Community Development, MMR Group, Ochsner Medical Center, Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital, Rain Will Bring Flowers Foundation, Raising Cane’s and UnSTAFF PHOTO By JOy HOLDEN stuck among others.

Robin Burrow said that they felt The 2026 Burreaux Back to School Kickoff at Elite Training Academy drew about 2,000 people for school welcomed and supported in Baton supplies and community involvement.

Rouge from the very beginning, and they love coming back.

“We just want to continue to give said that the amount of community health and food insecurity. The and glittery. That’s hard for them.”

Robin and her husband, Jimmy, back to the places that touched partners had grown significantly event focused on removing barriwalked around the crowds in Joe’s life the most,” she said, “and and the crowd was larger by about ers to academic success.

“Getting kids what they need matching LSU Joe “Burreaux” obviously LSU and Baton Rouge 500 than last year.

“This is a great opportunity and a to start the school year is part of jerseys. Robin Burrow picked up are right at the top of the list. Joe touch point for organizations with that to me,” said Robin Burrow, a babies, chatted with parents and wouldn’t be who he is today withafter-school programming in the retired elementary school teacher entertained kids waiting in line. out LSU. So we feel like we have a The 60-yard indoor field had com- responsibility to give back to the and principal. “I remember kids community,” she said.

The Burrow Foundation’s mis- walking into my classroom — munity vendors and organizations community that gave so much to sion is to provide resources and they didn’t have backpacks, their set up along the edges so families him and to our family.” support to the underprivileged and clothes were too little, and they could move through the line effiunderserved, with a primary focus didn’t have new shoes for school — ciently. In the middle of the field, Email Joy Holden at joy.holden@ on addressing childhood mental and other children came in all fresh children played with a tackling theadvocate.com.

Iberville animal shelter keeps no-kill designation REZONING

BY ELLYN COUVILLION Staff writer

The Iberville Parish Animal Shelter has kept its status as a no-kill shelter for the second year in a row, a distinction given to facilities where more than 90% of the dogs and cats were saved.

The rating, reached by the Iberville Parish shelter in 2024,

stayed in place for 2025, the parish government said in a news release Tuesday.

The data report on U.S. animal shelters and no-kill designations are provided annually by the Best Friends Animal Society, an animal sanctuary situated on more than 5,000 acres in Utah.

At the shelter in Plaquemine, 440 cats and dogs were adopted last year; another 240 were trans-

ferred to rescue partners, and 93 were reclaimed by their owners, a parish spokesperson said.

“Maintaining the no-kill status for a second year in a row is something our entire community should be proud of,” Alison Alvarado, director of the shelter, said in a statement. “We encourage our community to continue supporting the shelter by adopting, fostering, volunteering and

donating, so we can continue this lifesaving work.”

Parish President Chris Daigle said the recognition reflects the hard work of everyone involved with the shelter.

“We couldn’t do it without the continued support of our community,” he said in a statement.

Email Ellyn Couvillion at ecouvillion@theadvocate.com.

Decorations line the library window at the new South Fork Junior High School campus on Tuesday.

STAFF PHOTOS

By PEARL SPURLOCK

Continued from page 1B

area of discussion for more than 20 years and chose the property because of its rural appeal.

Eddy said his concern is that the proposal does not meet the criteria of the city’s Unified Development Code to rezone from residential to commercial due to the other residential tracts in the area.

“I would consider this a spot zoning request,” he told the commission.

Joe Territo, president of the Pecue, Perkins and Highland Homeowners Association, said residents are worried about potential traffic and flooding issues, along with how the area will be used and the look of the future commercial space.

“We don’t know if he is going to sell to a big company; we want to protect ourselves for years to come,” Territo said about the future of the area.

After 40 minutes of discussion, the commission voted to defer a decision on the proposal for 30 days to give the developer time to meet with homeowners in the area, a move that both parties were open to.

“We want to make sure the zoning is correct before we approve it,” said commission Chair Billy Aguillard.

Email Claire Grunewald at claire.grunewald@theadvocate. com.

SEARCH

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AMAZED

Continued from page 1B The new building marks the end of a bumpy opening chapter for Walker junior high students.

Walker’s first middle school was created six years ago in response to the rapid growth within Livingston Parish. In 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, students who previously had been dispersed among other middle schools in the district were consolidated into the original Walker High School, which was built a century ago.

As the junior high population expanded, portable buildings were brought in to accommodate classes the aging campus could not hold. The cafeteria was too small to give all students a distinct lunch period, so some students had to take a break in the middle of class to leave for lunch and then return.

“It’s a total 180 from what we had previously,” Watts said.

The new cafeteria — large enough to end split lunch periods — is shared with neighboring South Fork Elementary, an arrangement Livingston Superintendent Jody Purvis said is an example of economical use of space.

Community bond The junior high is just the latest development within Livingston

is in the process of building a new gym; three multipurpose buildings are planned for Live Oak, and Denham Springs High School’s STEM center has been tapped to add a new administrative and classroom building.

Leaders say South Fork Junior High will give students far more than just updated facilities.

While the parish system ranks among Louisiana’s top 10 performing school districts, Walker schools have historically trailed their parish counterparts. Teachers said they hope the new campus will give students a greater sense of motivation and connecThe new gymnasium at the recently built South Fork Junior High School tion to their school. As members of the inaugural class, they will is seen on Tuesday. shoulder the responsibility of shaping the culture and legacy for Outdoor the students who will follow. tables and “I’ve been teaching for 20 years, and this is a whole new experichairs at the South ence,” said Tricia Franatovich, an English and language arts teacher.

Fork “To be a part of it from the ground Junior up, it makes you way more investHigh ed.”

The community seems to be emSchool are seen. bracing the new school. Nearly 90% of students turned out with their parents and siblings last week to attend the school’s orientation.

“Seeing them walk through the campus for the first time, it was Parish public schools. Officials are will become a second junior high special,” Watts said. “Just the reviewing bids to rebuild the orig- for Walker students. Elsewhere in smiles and looks of amazement inal Walker High School, which the parish, Albany Middle School and the wow factor.”

The committee is searching for candidates with strong executive leadership experience and a record of producing results within a multistakeholder environment.

The ideal applicants will have expertise in economic development, public policy and business leadership, and be able to manage board and investor relationships and build regional coalitions.

Applications will be taken through Sept. 5 at greaterbatonrouge.org/careers. The committee expects to spend 12-15 weeks reviewing applications and meeting with job candidates, but that timetable may change to get the right person for the job, said Morgan Almeida, a spokesperson for the organization.

Email Timothy Boone at tboone@theadvocate.com.

LOTTERY

TUESDAY, AUG. 4, 2026 PICK 3: 2-4-8 PICK 4: 3-1-2-5 PICK 5: 4-8-7-4-9 MEGA MILLIONS: 14-21-51-55-65 MEGA BALL: 21 Unofficial notification, keep your tickets.

The Advocate ■ theadvocate.com ■ Thursday,August 6, 2026 ■ 3B

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Funerals Today

Jackson, Ricky Terrell

Bizette, Mark

Our Lady of Mercy Church, 445 Marquette Avenue, at 10 a.m.

Smith, Trudy St. George 11:00am.

Catholic

Church

at

White, Geraldine

Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church, 9700 Scenic Highway, at 11 a.m.

Wolf, Kenneth

St. Gabriel Catholic Church in St. Gabriel at noon.

Obituaries Badie, Sherrie

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day" 2 Timothy 4:7-8 It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Sherrie Badie, who went home to be with the Lord on July 27th at 9:30pm. She passed peacefully surrounded by her family.

Sherrie was born November 14, 1953 in Baton Rouge, LA where she lived for 72 years. She was a loving mother, devoted wife, friend, and active member of her church, Grace Life Fellowship. She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years Woodrow Badie, her children Jaimie Badie, Esther Badie, Deborah Badie, and Jacob Badie, bonus son LaWoodrow Badie, bonus daughter Carlisa Brooks, grandson Camdyn Badie, brother Kenneth Dixon, and a host of neices and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Willie and Soforia Dixon, brother Willie Dixon Jr., sister Joyce Flowers, son Jeremy Nelson Badie, and nephews Darryl Jack and Rodney Jack.

Sherrie showed kindness and empathy to everyone she met. She was a true example of Jesus' commandment to love your neighbor and will be sorely missed. Services will be held August 7, 2026 at Hall Davis and Sons, 9384 Scenic Hwy, Baton Rouge. Visitation: 8-9 am, Funeral Services: 9-10:30 am, Internment at Louisiana National Cemetery in Zachary, LA.

Bowie, Joe Louis 'Joe Boy'

Joe Louis Bowie, 83, of Baton Rouge, passed away July 31, 2026. A faithful deacon of Greater New Galilee Baptist Church for over 50 years, he was the beloved husband of Gloria Dean Dunn Bowie. A funeral service will be held from 11:00 AM on August 8,2026 at Greater New Galilee Baptist Church, 9185 Wilbur Street.

Hollins, Rosie Mae Rosemary

On March 1, 1938, in Rankin County, Mississippi, Rose Mary Ferguson, the first child, was born to the union of the late Earl and Lizzie Washington Ferguson.

Ricky Terrell Jackson born June 18,1968 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana to Joseph Jackson Sr. and Louise Jackson. Ricky finished his race on July 25, 2026, at the age of 58 years old. He was loved and will be truly missed by family, and friends. Visitation will be held Friday, August 7, 2026, 9am until religious services at 11am, New Sunlight B.C. 1777 America St. Baton Rouge, La. Burial will take place at Louisiana National Cemetery. Thanks to Desselle Funeral Home for assisting and taking care of our loved one.

Plain, William 'Willie'

On Thursday, July 23, 2026, Willie transitioned to his final resting place. He will live in our hearts forever. Celebration of Life Service: Friday, August 7, 2026, 10:00 am at Hall Davis Celebration Center, 9348 Scenic Hwy. Pastor Stanley Plain, Officiating.

Thomas, Kami Lyon

Kami Lyon Thomas, a native of Baton Rouge, LA and a resident of St. Francisville, LA, passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the age of 47. Kami graduated with a bachelor's degree from Southeastern and furthered her education at LSU obtaining a master's in social work.

She was the owner of Ma Milles Boutique. She loved shopping, gardening, hunting, painting and spending time with her daughter.

Kami had a giving heart, a smile that was infectious and never met a stranger.

She is survived by her loving daughter, Camille Grace Thomas; Her parents, William "Billy" Lyon and Seritta Catania Lyon; her sister, Ragan LeBlanc (Marco); niece and nephew, Laney LeBlanc and Landen LeBlanc. Visitation will be held at Resthaven Funeral Home, 11817 Jefferson Hwy. Baton Rouge, LA 70816, on Saturday, August 8, 2026, from 12:30 p.m. until Funeral Service at 2:30 p.m. Interment will follow at Resthaven Gardens of Memory. Pallbearers will be Marco LeBlanc, Landen LeBlanc, Ben Thomas, Tucker Freeman, Brandon Freeman and Troy Canella; honorary pallbearer will be Randy Thomas. Family and friends may sign the online guestbook or leave a personal note to the family at www.resthavenbatonroug e.com.

On April 29, 1956, Rose was united in holy matrimony to Lawerence Hollins. To this union three daughters were born.

On Friday, July 24, 2026, at 6:00 a.m., Almighty God served his final summons on his child, Rose Mary. A viewing (wake) will be held from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on 2026-08-07 at Richardson Funeral Home, 11816 Jackson Street.

A visitation will be held from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM on 2026-08-08 at Mt. Gideon Baptist Church, 2453 Hwy 952.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM on 2026-08 -08 at Mt. Gideon Baptist Church, 2453 Hwy 952.

Louisiana needs in-depth, solutions-driven, public service journalism more than ever.

How to place an Obituary Notice EMAIL:

obits@theadvocate.com OR CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION:

225-388-0289

How to place a Memorial Ad An “In Memory Of” ad, is a way to pay tribute to your loved one. This remembrance is often printed on the anniversary of a loved one’s death. The deadline is two days prior to the day you want your ad to appear.

TO PLACE A MEMORIAL AD GO TO: obituaries.theadvocate.com, click submit an obituary and select create a memoriam.

Please consider donating to local journalism in Louisiana. Your tax-deductible contribution goes solely to funding reporters in the field.

To donate and to see the work our team has done, visit

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OPINION T H E A D V O C AT E.C O M/opinions

OUR VIEWS

Congratulations to Drew Brees on well-deserved honor Drew Brees’ accomplishments on the football field will culminate Saturday when he is formally enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, as the first New Orleans Saint to be elected on the first ballot.

Brees’ ascendance to the sport’s most hallowed ground was assured years ago. His Saints record reads like video game statistics: five 5,000-passing yard seasons, six times as the NFL’s completion percentage leader, seven times passing yard leader and the most consecutive games with a touchdown pass in league history.

During his 15 years leading the Saints’ offense, the team won 62% of its games, made the playoffs nine times and captured the franchise’s only Super Bowl title.

His brilliance didn’t just reveal itself in consistency and longevity. It also shone through in individual moments and games: his 62-yard toss to Tre’Quan Smith that set the NFL passing yards record in 2018; a 40-yard touchdown pass to Devery Henderson in 2012 that set the record for consecutive games with a touchdown pass; his 511-yard, seven-TD game against the Giants in 2015.

Saturday, we will join the rest of the football world in celebrating Brees’ gridiron accomplishments during the traditional kickoff to the NFL season.

But we will also celebrate much more than just that. It’s almost impossible to understate the psychological importance of what Brees did in the aftermath of the worst disaster Louisiana had seen in generations.

When he arrived, he — and new coach Sean Payton — took over a franchise whose moribund status was treated as a given. They were a perfect match for a city and a state devastated nearly a year before by Hurricane Katrina. Indeed, Brees, himself recovering from a serious shoulder injury, has said that one reason he chose the Saints was because he saw the devastation and wanted to be part of a civic rebuilding effort.

Payton’s coaching brilliance and Brees’ transcendent skill paid immediate dividends, not just in the emotional win over the hated Falcons in the famed Domecoming game, but in excellence every single day. The team’s renaissance gave New Orleans reason to believe in itself again.

The ensuing years saw the team grow ever closer to a goal once thought impossible: a Super Bowl. The city improved, too, with the two feeding off each other in a symbiotic relationship.

The whole time, Brees remained relentlessly competitive, upbeat and committed to the team and Louisiana. When he led the Saints to the title, it signified not just a championship for a sports team but the recovery of the state against what had seemed like impossible odds.

Off the field, too, Brees’ contributions are legendary. Throughout Louisiana, Brees famously financed facilities at some 50 schools, plus residential wards for cancer patients, child-care services and more.

So, thank you, Drew. Of course we’re celebrating your on-the-field accomplishments, and will rejoice to see your enshrinement, complete with Payton’s sure-to-be-emotional introduction.

But we are eternally grateful, too, for all you did beyond the playing field. You will always be a Saint.

STAFF FILE PHOTO By DAVID GRUNFELD

Retired quarterback Drew Brees celebrates his 2024 induction into the Saints Hall of Fame. On Saturday, he will be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame as the first New Orleans Saint to be elected on the first ballot.

YOUR VIEWS

U.S. can learn from these socialist countries

The July 20 issue of the newspaper contained two items connected by the writers’ insights about building a stronger nation. Wayne Parker’s letter cautions against oversimplifying the controversial term “socialism.”

Jay Lapeyre’s op-ed column encourages civic engagement. I write to expand on the emotionally charged term “socialism.”

One form of socialism is practiced in two of the least democratic countries of the world: North Korea and Cuba. However, another form of socialism is practiced in some of the most progressive democratic countries.

Think Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland and many other countries in Europe and elsewhere.

These social democracies combine practices of capitalism with emphasis on free and fair elections, civic participation, social cohesion and reducing inequalities in access to health care, education and housing.

We can learn from countries like these. Look at any nonpartisan ranking of the world’s countries in the areas of life expectancy, infant mortality, crime and overall life

satisfaction. Many countries that practice social democracy appear in the top 10 of one or more of these categories.

Unfortunately, the United States is not ranked in the top 10 in any of these categories. However, the U.S. is ranked in the top 10 in the category of millionaires per capita. So are Switzerland, Australia, Norway, Denmark, Sweden and Canada — all governed by a form of social democracy.

Ironically, some of the most popular U.S. government programs are similar to those practiced in social democracies. The nonpartisan opinion polling company YouGov surveyed a cross-section of Americans, asking about five federal programs.

Here are the programs and the percentage of respondents favoring funding at current or higher levels: Social Security (78%); Medicare (76%); Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (72%); Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (69%); and the Women, Infants & Children Program (70%).

DAVID SABRIO Metairie

By the numbers, Trump’s policies add up to misplaced priorities Have the money to buy a new car?

How about a luxury Cadillac Escalade, base price $91,000, with high performance variance as much as $170,000 each? How many are our tax money purchasing? Quantity 250, so the Secret Service “can ride in style” and Trump said “he’ll look good in it.”

How big a motorcade is he gonna have? Can’t the Secret Service carpool some? Even base price will cost $23 million.

Important expenditures: for changing the name to Gulf of America, replacing highway signage, maritime markers, updating state textbooks and maps — estimated anywhere from half a million to $200 million or more.

Vital, really important one: changing the name of the Defense Department to “Department of War.” Internal updates, signs, digital assets and stationery — an estimated $125 million.

For a gaudy military parade to satisfy and stroke his ego, more mil-

lions. As much as $2 billion a day for a war to get a nuclear deal we had that included inspections, cameras and enrichment levels.

If your neighbor’s home is on fire, what would you do? Try to help them?

Or sue because you don’t like the smoke? It’s the United States’ No. 1 trading partner. Why is he picking a fight with Canada?

Cost to Americans for food and everything else because of chaos caused by his tariffs that we’re not supposed to be paying ourselves. Gas prices because of his foolish aggression that’s igniting a rapidly spreading Mideast war. Denying healthcare to children, plus food aid to Americans and starving people worldwide.

Nero, the Earth is on fire, and here’s $500 million for a ballroom to throw another “Great Gatsby” party. That is not my vision of making America great. I’d prefer the word “shameful.”

TERRY GRUNDMANN Kenner

State abandons land, rights to billionaire’s rockets The proposed SpaceX launchpad on Pecan Island is a direct assault on Louisiana’s coast. Our state leaders preach about protecting our vanishing coast, yet they are willing to hand over a fragile ecosystem to launch rockets.

They are swapping decades of oil pollution from ExxonMobil for the destructive impact of rocket launches.

Worse still is the corrupt push to shield SpaceX from accountability. The state is stripping constitutional rights from the taxpayers by giving SpaceX immunity from lawsuits.

Louisiana must stop sacrificing its citizens to play landlord to billionaires. We must reject the Pecan Island launchpad and demand that our laws protect taxpayers, not corporate balance sheets.

MONICA KEESE Mandeville

Reader misses detailed coverage of Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo results I grew up in small town Baton Rouge, being born in 1957. From the time I was a young child to the late 1990s, I was going to Grand Isle to be with my first cousins at the Wilkinson camp on Santiny Lane.

All during that time and leading up to the current day, one of the oldest fishing tournaments was held, and it was called the Grand Isle Tarpon Rodeo.

All during those early years the editors would proudly show photos and nearly full-page stories from each day of the tournament. Now we get zero articles and zero write-ups and zero publication of the leaders on the various fishing brackets.

What a shame, especially considering that a large number of New Orleans people fish this tournament, as do so many others from around the great state of Louisiana.

I certainly hope that this publication will change its stance on the Tarpon Rodeo. The Advocate also used to post articles about the Golden Meadow fishing rodeo, and once again nothing.

I hope others will write in as well about this dismal reporting.

RICHARD G. KEAN III Baton Rouge

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COMMENTARY Armstrong’s birthday a call to action for La. jazz lovers The first time I ever saw my father cry was when he heard Louis Armstrong died.

It wasn’t obvious: He was pretending his glasses were just fogging up, necessitating use of a handkerchief near his eyes. Still, he couldn’t hide some tears running down his cheek.

Dad pulled an LP from the shelf and began playQuin ing it. I looked at the Hillyer album’s back cover, and either there or on the TV news I distinctly remember a photo of Armstrong on his New York front steps, playing his trumpet with some children.

If this guy was cherished enough to make my father cry, and if he was nice enough to hang out with neighborhood children, I figured I should give him a listen. And, well, wow: I’ve been nearly obsessed, ever since, with traditional New Orleans jazz.

These memories return because this past Tuesday was Louis Armstrong’s 125th birthday. (Is there a name for that? If “hemi” is a half, was it his hemi-semiquincentennial?) We know the exact day because, 38 years ago, New Orleans music historian Tad Jones dug up Armstrong’s baptismal records listing his birth date as Aug. 4, 1901, rather than the July 4, 1900, that the great jazz musician long had claimed.

(As an aside: I didn’t know Jones, but I randomly found myself sitting next to him at the breakfast bar of the old Bluebird Café on Prytania Street in 1988 and striking up a conversation that naturally turned to jazz — at which time he asked if I could keep a secret, and he told me he was just a day or three away from making “a big announcement” about Armstrong’s birth.

To say the least, his announcement certainly made big news.)

Of course the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival made a huge celebration of the centennial of Armstrong’s birth in 2001 (I still have the T-shirt).

And last weekend the 26th annual

TIMES-PICAyUNE ARCHIVE PHOTO

young Louis Armstrong

Satchmo Summerfest took place at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. Moreover, all weekend long, on Frenchmen Street and Bourbon Street and elsewhere around town, traditional jazz bands were plying their trade. The Palmetto Bug Stompers, playing with verve at DBA New Orleans, were particularly fun.

Coincidentally, the birthdate itself saw an announcement that the documentary “City of a Million Dreams,” about jazz funerals and the city’s music culture, is now getting a nationwide release on public television. It will air on WYES in New Orleans on Aug. 13 at 7:30 p.m. and Aug. 15 at 4 p.m., and on Louisiana Public Broadcasting on Aug. 18 at 8 p.m. The documentary’s filmmaker, New Orleanian Jason Berry, also was Jones’ co-author (1986) of the acclaimed Louisiana music history called “Up From the Cradle of Jazz.”

Small world — and, as Armstrong would say, “What a Wonderful World,” as well.

Now: Apologies if all the informa-

tion above may seem a tad disjointed, but then again, this is a column about jazz, where individual musicians can improvise in unexpected directions but only while still staying tethered to, and returning to, a central theme.

If you haven’t figured it out yet, the central tune here is that New Orleans traditional jazz is a treasure, as is the particular legacy of Armstrong.

Yet what should worry all of us is that this signature music of the state — which, according to essayist Gerald Early, joins the Constitution and baseball as this nation’s three most enduring gifts to civilization — seems always on the verge of dying out. Maybe I’m missing something, but no matter how hard I look, I can never seem to find anyone under 50 years old who regularly plays the real, true thing.

Yes, there are bands and musicians semi-rooted in traditional jazz of the sort played by Armstrong, King Oliver and Buddy Bolden, but most of them are brassier, funkier, less subtle, less wedded to a central melody in each song. They may be playing great music, but it’s not really traditional New Orleans jazz.

Yet we must, we absolutely must, ensure that our native music doesn’t die.

It is heartening, though, to see key institutions devoted to the music’s continuance. There’s the aforementioned jazz museum, and of course there’s the Preservation Hall Foundation, and the New Orleans Jazz and Blues Market, along with numerous clubs that still host the music. And there’s also the ambitious, forthcoming Louisiana Music and Heritage Experience, which will be a grand, museum-plus establishment in the city’s River District.

Through all these outlets, and more, all of us should want to transmit our musical heritage to new generations.

Let’s renew our dedication to this task — both as a birthday present to Satchmo and so my late father won’t be shedding tears of loss in heaven.

Email Quin Hillyer at quin.hillyer@ theadvocate.com

The era of peak socialism in America The emergence of the Democratic Socialists of America and their political victories, from New York City across the fruited plains of Michigan and Wisconsin all the way to Colorado, strikes many as a new thing in U.S. politics.

Previous movements have, in fact, increased, sometimes significantly, Michael the size and scope of Barone government. But it has been their opponents who have accused them of “creeping socialism,” while advocates have avoided the S-word.

Some major policies of Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal — Social Security most of all — remain part of the fabric of American life, and elements of the social safety net have been expanded quietly but effectively enough that, as former Sen. Phil Gramm has argued, the government transfer payments have effectively equalized the incomes of those on the bottom 60% of the economic ladder.

But virtually no attention, so far as I can see, has been paid to the period in U.S. history when the government took maximum control of the private-sector economy, including the dissemination of information and communication of opinion.

That moment came more than 100 years ago, before the emergence not only of the internet but also of radio and talking motion pictures. It lasted only briefly, and its implications have mostly been glossed over by historians.

It has been chronicled recently, however, and with the help of artificial intelligence, by the iconoclastic economist Arnold Kling. The centerpiece is the policies adopted by Woodrow Wilson’s administration and an acquiescent Democratic Congress during the 19 months from April 1917 to November 1918, in which the United

States was at war with Germany and its allies in World War I. This creation of an American state that would “seize the railroad, ration the coal, set the price of wheat, conscript four million men, and prosecute the printed word” was the work of progressive reformers convinced that experts could do better than seemingly chaotic markets in running the economy.

Wilson’s War Industries Board, headed by Wall Street speculator Bernard Baruch, set out “to decide, for the whole nation, what got made, from what materials, in what quantities, at what price, and in what order of priority.” His food administration, headed by mining engineer Herbert Hoover, pushed for “meatless Tuesdays and wheatless Wednesday (and) victory gardens,” and doubled the price of wheat so that U.S. farmers could feed allies in Europe.

The government seized the railroads in December 1917, and Treasury Secretary William McAdoo (who was also Wilson’s son-in-law) “set the schedules, the rates, the wages, unified the equipment, and cut the competitive duplication.” It ran the system “imperfectly, expensively, but it moved the troops and the coal,” the essential fuel then for both heavy industry and home heating.

The fuel administration enforced “heatless Mondays,” the National War Labor Board set the eight-hour day and the War Finance Corporation built an emergency fleet. In November 1917, the 35-year-old Assistant Secretary of the Navy Franklin Roosevelt imposed a strike settlement on Bethlehem Steel’s Fore River Shipyard manager, a 29-year-old bank president named Joseph P. Kennedy.

This socialist America was anything but friendly to civil rights and civil liberties. Wilson imposed racial segregation on the federal workforce and shut down German cultural orga-

nizations. His government prosecuted and jailed the Socialist presidential candidate Eugene Debs for defending men imprisoned for obstructing the military draft.

“Everything,” Kling writes, “so far has described a state expanding — seizing, planning, rationing, prosecuting, persuading. The last movement is the one the buildup does not prepare you for, and it is the heart of the matter: how fast nearly all of it came apart.”

The War Industries Board voted to dissolve itself on New Year’s Day 1919, less than two months after the Armistice; the War Labor Board lapsed; the food and fuel controls ended; Congress (Republican after the November 1918 election) returned the railroads to private owners in the Transportation Act of 1920.

Wilson’s Democratic Party was punished in the presidential election that year. The Democratic ticket of James Cox and Franklin Roosevelt got 34% of the popular vote. The Republican ticket of Warren Harding and Calvin Coolidge got 60%, the highest percentage in any election up to that date.

You can find elements of Wilson’s wartime socialism in some selfdescribed experiments within Roosevelt’s New Deal. But when war came, he didn’t choose to nationalize the railroads and industries. Instead, he got William Knudsen to enlist executives in moving toward wartime production.

If you listen to a tape of Roosevelt’s speech to Congress on Dec. 8, 1941, the loudest applause, cheers and rebel yells came after he said, “The American people, in their righteous might, will win through to absolute victory.”

Socialism, he evidently thought, was not the way to get there.

Maybe there’s a lesson there for the public today.

Michael Barone is on X, @MichaelBarone.

Nebraska Senate candidate Osborn is the real deal “A Face in the Crowd” is the prophetic 1957 movie about a charismatic drifter “discovered” in an Arkansas jail. The face belongs to “Lonesome” Rhodes, a scoundrel whose folksy act catapults him to national prominence. “Lonesome” (Andy Griffith) abuses women, but the crowd only sees a lovable spinner of down-home yarns.

He deflates after getting caught on an open mic mocking his followers as idiots and fools.

Maine’s Graham Platner was a face in the crowd, sold to Democrats as a salt-of-the-sea oysterFroma who actually came from Harrop man a privileged background. The senatorial candidate survived his sordid history of mistreating women until a plausible accusation of rape finally did him in.

American politics feasts on stories of candidates from humble backgrounds who know what it means to be a working stiff. Some such contenders are uncovered as bums or phonies. But some are the real thing.

They would include Dan Osborn of Nebraska. He is the steamfitter and former union organizer from Omaha running for the Senate as an independent against Republican Sen. Pete Ricketts.

Osborn now has a decent chance of prevailing in November. His is not a new face. He had run in 2024 as an independent who did surprisingly well against Republican incumbent Deb Fischer. Osborn lost by only 7 points in a state that Donald Trump carried by about 21 points. Osborn clearly has appeal.

After the election, Osborn launched a PAC called the Working Class Heroes Fund. Its stated mission is to support candidates like him, regardless of party label. With Ricketts an heir to a family fortune exceeding $1 billion, Osborn has predictably framed the race as between the “billionaire class” and the working class.

One of his challenges, though, is to minimize the extent to which Democrats openly want him to win. Nebraska Democrats are not running their own candidate and urge their contributors to back Osborn.

To prevail in a conservative state like Nebraska, Osborn needs support from disaffected or moderate Republicans. If elected, he vows not to caucus with either party. And he criticizes Democrats for their focus on whitecollar professionals.

Working in his favor is the fact that many Nebraska Republicans are not hard right.

Omaha Rep. Don Bacon, for example, is a Republican moderate known for often criticizing Trump. His is a swing district, nationally known as the “blue dot.” Seeing himself at a disadvantage among MAGA Republicans and Democrats desperate for a win, Bacon decided not to seek another term.

Former Nebraska Sen. Ben Sasse is a traditional conservative known for his intellect and courteous manners. Sasse was one of only seven Senate Republicans who voted to convict Trump for inciting the Capitol riot. He is now bravely confronting Stage 4 pancreatic cancer.

Trump’s job approval rating in Nebraska is evenly divided or slightly underwater. And so a working man fixed on pragmatic solutions would seem a serious challenger.

Arizona Democrats have Katie Hobbs running for reelection as governor. The product of a middle-class family, Hobbs put herself through college. While secretary of state in 2020, she earned national renown for defending Arizona’s election results against phony claims of voter fraud.

As governor, she has lured business to her state, which explains her directing ads toward Republicans and independents. Many Arizonans, meanwhile, remain incensed at Trump’s shabby treatment of the late Republican icon John McCain.

McCain’s widow, Cindy McCain, has publicly endorsed Hobbs against her Republican opponent, Andy Biggs. Tied hand and foot to Trump, Biggs tried to overturn the results of the 2020 election.

Moderate Democrats do have a good shot at winning this November. Electorates may have grown weary of faces in the crowd, entertainers offering colorful tales and little more.

Follow Froma Harrop on X @FromaHarrop.

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TODAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

A heavy t-storm in the p.m.

A t-storm around in the p.m.

A shower and thunderstorm

An afternoon t-storm in spots

Humid; a stray p.m. t-storm

Humid with a t-storm in spots

HIGH

LOW

HIGH

92° 73°

LOW

HIGH

94° 74°

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93° 75°

HIGH

High/low Normal high/low Last year’s high/low Record high Record low

Beaumont 91/77 Port Arthur 90/77

Baton Rouge 92/73

Lake Charles 91/76

10s

20s

30s

Houma 87/75

40s

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LOW

YESTERDAY

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Sunrise today Sunset tonight Moonrise today Moonset today

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24-hour total Month to date Normal month to date year to date Normal year to date

HIGH

2:28p 8:15a 6:26a 7:36a 4:05a 3:27a 5:13a

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AUG 12

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Atlanta Austin Boston Charlotte Chicago Dallas Denver Houston Las Vegas

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Hi

88 99 88 86 78 100 97 96 110

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72 78 76 72 67 80 62 78 89

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FRI. Lo

72 75 74 71 69 81 70 76 91

LOW

0.7 1.5 1.8 1.7 1.3 1.5 1.6

6:26 a.m.

7:55 p.m. none 2:21 p.m.

NEW

City

Shown are areas of precipitation and high temperatures for the day.

PRECIPITATION

96°/75° 93°/74° 94°/74° 101° in 2023 62° in 1915

TODAY’S TIDES Lake Pontchartrain (Tchefuncte River) Shell Beach South Point, Marsh Island Cypremort Point Grand Isle (Barataria Pass) Mississippi River (Southwest Pass) Wine Island

New Orleans 90/76

Shown is today’s weather. Temperatures are today’s highs and tonight’s lows.

0s

Hattiesburg 94/73

Alexandria 92/73

Lafayette 90/75

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91° 74°

Baton Rouge through 5 p.m. Wednesday

Jackson 95/74 Many 94/72

LOW

92° 75°

TEMPERATURE

Longview 98/75

-0s

LOW

Monroe 96/75

Shreveport 96/75

-10s

HIGH

94° 76°

Some of the same showers and storms we saw yesterday will be around again today. Expect a partly to mostly cloudy, hot, humid and breezy day with scattered showers and thunderstorms. Temperatures will rise to the low to mid-90s. The heat index values will rise to the upper 90s to 105. Parts of the Baton Rouge area are under a moderate heat risk, so take precautions to avoid heat illnesses.

Also, keep the umbrella with you, as rain and storms will be with us for the next few days.

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t t t t pc pc pc t s

0.00” Trace 0.90” 41.49” 37.99”

FT.

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2:09a 0.1 8:42p 0.0 3:14p -0.3 7:19p 0.2 3:53p 0.0 2:24p -0.1 4:55p 0.0

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READING 64 MAIN POLLUTANT Particulates

MAIN POLLUTANT Particulates

SOURCE: LOUISIANA DEQ AND AIRNOW.GOV

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The solunar period schedule allows planning days so you will be fishing in good territory or hunting in good cover during those times. Major periods begin at the times shown and last for 1.5 to 2 hours. The minor periods are shorter.

MAJOR MINOR MAJOR MINOR

Today 6:01a 12:15p 6:30p Friday 6:57a 12:41a 7:27p Saturday 7:53a 1:37a 8:25p Sunday 8:51a 2:35a 9:23p Monday 9:48a 3:32a 10:19p Tuesday 10:44a 4:29a 11:14p Wednesday 11:39a 5:25a 12:06p

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Hi

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Los Angeles 87 Miami 90 Nashville 93 New york City 89 Philadelphia 91 Phoenix 108 St. Louis 85 San Francisco 73 Seattle 88

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68 79 74 76 77 91 73 58 58

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88 90 92 89 91 113 88 72 86

---1:12p 2:09p 3:07p 4:04p 4:59p 5:52p

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69 81 74 75 75 92 70 57 56

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WED. 24-HOUR

MISSISSIPPI STAGE STAGE CHANGE Memphis 34 -1.00 -0.27 Vidalia-Natchez 48 22.10 -1.12 Red River Landing 48 25.10 -0.60 Baton Rouge 35 10.60 -0.70 Donaldsonville 27 5.80 -0.50 Reserve 22 4.54 -0.23 New Orleans 17 3.60 -0.01 OHIO Cairo 40 15.30 -0.15 COMITE Near Olive 19 -1.48 +0.20 AMITE Near Darlington 18 -1.08 -0.07 Denham Springs 29 10.23 -0.26 Port Vincent 8 1.86 +0.67 TICKFAW Montpelier 13 2.56 -0.05 Holden 15 1.00 -0.17 ATCHAFALAYA Simmesport 47 9.78 -0.53 Melville 34 6.62 -0.33 Krotz Springs 29 5.00 -0.53 Butte La Rose 20 4.89 -0.16 Bayou Sorrel 12 3.90 -0.20 Morgan City 6 1.91 -0.29

data as of 7 a.m. Wednesday

s t t t t t t pc s

Forecasts and graphics, except for Damon’s Outlook, provided by AccuWeather, Inc. ©2026

Weather (W): s-sunny, pc-partly cloudy, c-cloudy, sh-showers, t-thunderstorms, r-rain, sf-snow flurries, sn-snow, i-ice.

Firefighters get handle on Spokane wildfires

BY MANUEL VALDES, MARTHA BELLISLE and GENE JOHNSON Associated Press

SPOKANE, Wash. — Firefighters have taken advantage of cooler weather to begin getting a handle on wildfires that have displaced tens of thousands of people around Washington state’s secondlargest city, but hotter, drier and breezier days lie ahead.

Officials reported Wednesday that firefighters had established containment lines around the perimeters of all three fires affecting Spokane and that they were focused on reinforcing those lines.

Temperatures were expected to climb from the 80s the past two days into the upper 90s, with less humidity, late this week.

The fires — one of which authorities say was deliberately set by a man who was arrested and charged with arson — have destroyed about 850 buildings and forced the evacuation of around 67,000 people since they erupted last weekend.

Damage assessment crews have yet to tally exactly how many houses have been lost or damaged. No deaths have

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By LINDSEy WASSON

Michelle Angstrom reacts to her burned home and property after a wildfire hit the northwest part of Spokane, Wash., on Tuesday. been reported.

The other two fires were also started by people, though not necessarily deliberately, investigators have said. They remain under investigation. Those fires, the Autumn Lane and Fairview fires, started independently of the arson-caused Old Trails Fire, they said.

Some evacuees were allowed to return home, but

officials did not immediately say how many. Others remained in a shelter set up in a Spokane convention center, at hotels or rentals, or at the homes of friends or relatives, with no idea of how soon they might go back — if they have a house to return to.

“We figured it would be a day or two, not four or five.

It’s not the best situation,” said Debra Curran, who has

been staying at the convention center since Saturday with her husband, who has ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Their house survived, but her husband would need to be transported by ambulance, which officials won’t do until the fire risk in their neighborhood drops.

Among those under evacuation orders are patients and

staff from the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center in Spokane. When the fire approached on Saturday, the staff moved 27 patients to local hospitals and temporary shelters, said Bret Bowers, a spokesperson for the center.

The medical center was not burned in the fire but several staff lost their homes.

Adam Wilson, a communications officer at the Washington State Auditor’s Office, fled Saturday with his wife and three children, ages 9, 14 and 16. They had moved into their Spokane home a little over a month earlier and were still unpacking, he said.

Since then, they’ve stayed at a hotel 90 minutes to the south and with his father in Idaho. This weekend, they’ll move again, to a rental home in Spokane that their insurance is covering.

Their house is fine, Wilson said, despite flames that leveled an entire cul-de-sac just two blocks away, leaving only chimneys standing in some cases. The neighborhood remains under an evacuation order. Even if they could return, there’s no power and no internet service, and no information about how soon either will be restored.

“What you really want to hear, nobody can tell you,” Wilson said. “It is oddly emotional and disorienting. We did not lose any property.

From the outside it looks like a family trip — ‘Hey, kids, we’re going to go visit Papa for a week, pack your bags.’ ... And yet you feel like something isn’t right.”

In Washington, there are 16 uncontained wildfires burning more than 672 square miles and being fought by more than 7,000 fire personnel, said Thomas Kyle-Milward, a spokesman for the Washington Department of Natural Resources.

The man charged with starting the Old Trails Fire, Aaron F. Farinacci, 37, of Spokane, was expected to be arraigned Thursday. According to court documents, he was arrested after a resident reported him being in the area where the fire began.

He denied having started it when questioned by deputies.

Authorities said they previously contacted him during two fire investigations last year, including one in a state park that prompted evacuation notices, though he wasn’t charged in either.

3 charged with threatening people linked to Nolan Wells investigation

BY JOSH KELETY Associated Press

Three people have been charged with threatening a judge, a witness and local officials connected to the investigation into the death of Nolan Xavier Wells, an 18-yearold found dead after a July Fourth boat trip with friends to an island off Mississippi’s Gulf Coast.

None of the three appear to know Wells, his family or the boating group, or be part of the investigation. The threats came amid rampant speculation and scrutiny of the investigation, deepened in part by uncertainty surrounding Wells’ final hours, distrust of law enforcement and the state’s long history of

racist violence.

The teenager, who was Black, had traveled to the uninhabited island with a group of friends from high school, all of whom were White. He did not return with his friends to the mainland that evening. His body was found two days later off the island’s coast.

Authorities have not made any arrests or named any suspects.

An independent autopsy commissioned by Wells’ family found the 18-year-old’s cause of death to be “undetermined” pending further investigation.

Attempts to reach the defendants for comment were unsuccessful. Phone numbers listed for some of the defendants in af-

fidavits weren’t active and a call to another number went unanswered. Emails sent to addresses listed in an affidavit for one of the defendants went unanswered. It is unclear if they have attorneys yet.

One of the defendants, Edward James Porter of Illinois, allegedly called an unnamed witness on July 31 and threatened to kill them and their family, according to an affidavit. Porter also allegedly told another person in Mississippi in a phone call that he would cut them up and put them “into a suitcase.”

Porter was charged on July 31 in federal court for the Southern District of Mississippi for the threat.

Porter threatened two members of the family of Bart Edminston

Jr., a 21-year-old who knew Wells and provided aid to the boat the group used on July Fourth, said family attorney Russell Latino.

Latino said that one of the family members who Porter threatened is a witness in the investigation.

An Ohio woman was also charged with allegedly placing bomb threats at the George County Chancery Clerk’s Office and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office on July 23. The woman, Michelle Francine Edwards, allegedly called the clerk’s office 21 times and said, “the clock is ticking,” according to an affidavit.

A California man, Joseph Alfredo Vasquez Dumarce, was charged on July 14 for allegedly sending a

threatening Facebook message to a Jackson County Chancery Court judge with ties to the Wells investigation. According to an affidavit, a Facebook user believed to be Dumarce sent a message to the judge’s account that constituted a “threat that a bomb would be mailed to the judge’s office.”

Judge Ashlee Cole posted a screenshot of Dumarce’s threatening message on Facebook on July 9.

Cole wrote in an earlier Facebook post that her son last saw Wells on July Fourth around 3 p.m. and decided to “stay on the island and return inland later with another group of friends.” Cole wrote that she deactivated her Facebook and that she fears for the safety of her children.

SPORTS

T H E A D V O C AT E.C O M

|

T h u r s d ay, au g u s T 6, 2026

1CN

Southern wants to be run-first offense Southern running back Princeton Cahee bursts through an opening during a drill on Saturday at the school’s practice fields.

BY TOYLOY BROWN III Staff writer

Nimble feet and a low center of gravity.

Southern tailback Mike Franklin displayed those traits, chopping his feet over a pair of blue step-over pads and ducking under a white bar, well below the shoulders of his 6-foot-2 frame.

“A big back with quick feet, I love it,” running backs coach Joshua Covington said after a rep on Monday.

Tuesday’s preseason camp practice was no different for the position group — practice fundamentals and learn the intricacies of the Go-Go offense, a traditionally run-heavy system. While the Jaguars strive for completeness in every facet, they also understand that a bulk of their success will depend on the quality of the running back room.

“It’s huge, listen, we’ll throw the football,

STAFF PHOTO

By MICHAEL JOHNSON

but our identity is going to be in running the football,” first-year coach Marshall Faulk said.

“That’s the brand of football I want to play.”

Merchant said in February that the team plans to play fast, “run the air out of the ball” and take deep shots in the passing game.

At Tuesday’s practice, he refrained from exposing anything unnecessarily ahead of the season opener against Alabama State on Aug. 29 in Birmingham, Alabama.

“As far as the depth goes and the scheme, I like to keep everybody on edge with that,” he said. “But yes, there’s some pretty good players in this program in the running back room, and I love them all. I really do.”

It’s expected that Trey Holly, who started his career at LSU, will once again be Southern’s lead rusher. The 5-7, 192-pound redshirt

ä See SOUTHERN, page 5C

Blackmon hopeful to reward Saints’ faith in him

BY LUKE JOHNSON Staff writer

Kellen Moore didn’t have to think too hard about his first memory of Julian Blackmon in a New Orleans Saints uniform.

His memory was assisted by where he was standing. Addressing reporters from the corner of the Saints’ indoor practice facility, Moore was standing maybe 15 yards away from where Blackmon, about a year earlier, made a memorable interception near the end of his first practice with the team.

“I don’t even know if he knew what our coverages were,” Moore said. “He just hopped in and played ball.”

That particular memory is two-sided.

The unfortunate part is that New Orleans did not have much else to go off of when considering Blackmon as a player. He appeared in one game with the Saints last year as the starting safety before tearing the posterior labrum in his right shoulder — his second consecutive season that required surgery on that shoulder.

Then again, it is plays like that one Blackmon made in his first training camp practice — plus many more throughout camp last year — that made the Saints comfortable betting on everything Blackmon can be in their defense despite the recent injury history.

“The coaches felt like I did enough, they saw enough to know that if I came back and was able to get a full season, things would be really good and it would benefit the whole team,” Blackmon said. “We like to say, ‘together, we eat.’ I’m excited for my opportunity this year, because I feel like we can do that with me on the field.”

Blackmon looked like the ideal complement to Justin Reid in their brief time together last season. In Reid, the Saints have a safety whose primary mission is to make his opponents remember his physicality. They pair him with Blackmon, who can take away a whole half of the field with his range and who is at his best when the ball is in the air.

ä See SAINTS, page 3C

IN-N-OUT LSU wide receiver Phillip Wright makes a catch during drills on the first day of LSU practice on Wednesday at the team’s practice facility. STAFF PHOTO By PEARL SPURLOCK

The science behind LSU’s short preseason practice under Kiffin

BY JON BLAU Staff writer

Lane Kiffin strolled into LSU’s team meeting room at 11:41 a.m. on Wednesday, a full four minutes before he was originally scheduled to speak with the media following his first preseason camp practice as head coach.

There was no need to spend another four minutes in the 92-degree heat of Baton Rouge, whipping the Tigers into shape, when the season will beat on them plenty.

Practice started at around 10 a.m., and it was done in about 90 minutes.

“We’re following kind of a ramp-up program to prevent injuries, one that we kind of started last year (at Ole Miss), just looking at being fresh at the end of season

and injuries in the first five days,” Kiffin said. “There’s not much work out there, but that’s really long-term thinking.”

The opener against Clemson is just one month away, along with a season of immense expectations, but Kiffin didn’t want the Tigers going too hard, too fast.

There were certainly intense periods in the 10 minutes of practice media members were allowed to observe.

Would-be tacklers chased ball carriers in unison in a pursuit drill as assistant coaches barked. Defensive tackles jarred a sled with the palms of their hands and tossed it aside as coaches barked some more.

But it was a quick in and out on Day 1, for the media and the Tigers alike.

Kiffin exhibiting experience, confidence LSU hired him for

STAFF PHOTO By DAVID GRUNFELD

Saints safety Julian Blackmon runs a drill during training camp on Wendesday at the team’s practice facility in Metairie. Blackmon is looking to make an impact in his return from shoulder injury.

a recipe from a friend. Carroll Lane Kiffin is no longer the isn’t credited for being as big wunderkind of football. an influence on Kiffin taking It’s been 20 years since Al the LSU job as Nick Saban is, Davis made the then-31-year-old though he deserves a slice of Kiffin head coach of the thenthe credit.

Oakland Raiders. Now 51, Kiffin That said, Kiffin is at a is probably as lean as he was Scott point in his career where he then thanks to all the hot yoga, Rabalais can keep his own counsel. though he has a few more lines in Einstein said the only the still boyish face. source of knowledge is experience.

Certainly, above all, he’s a lot wiser.

LSU is Kiffin’s sixth head coaching For LSU, that’s a good thing. job, college and pro. All that experiAt one point during Wednesday’s news conference after LSU’s first preence should make LSU fans glad Kifseason practice, Kiffin dropped into fin didn’t get the job when it hired the conversation that he had a long talk Brian Kelly four years ago, or cerTuesday night with his mentor and one- tainly before that. time boss Pete Carroll. It was about as ä See RABALAIS, page 4C casually as one might mention cribbing

ä See LSU, page 4C

LSU coach Lane Kiffin STAFF FILE PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

2C ■ Thursday, August 6, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

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Preakness will run on a Sunday

BY STEPHEN WHYNO AP sportswriter

A big change is coming to horse racing’s Triple Crown, with the Preakness Stakes moving to three weeks and a day after the Kentucky Derby and being run on Sunday for the first time.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and the Maryland Jockey Club announced the decision Wednesday.

No Triple Crown race has ever taken place on a Sunday in the century-plus-old history of the series.

The shift marks a major change on the horse racing calendar, following significant debate and speculation. Except for 2020 during the pandemic, the Preakness has been on the third Saturday in May, two weeks after the Kentucky Derby, since 1950.

Maryland Jockey Club CEO Bill Knauf acknowledged the tradition while also calling this the time to move the Preakness back. The Preakness will be run on May 23.

“It’s been discussed for a very long time (and) we recognized the different trends and training methods recently,” Knauf told The Associated Press. “We entered the discussion maybe even saying, ‘Hey, is two weeks the right amount? I think the week was the right placement.

It still gives an incredible test for a horse and a champion to go through that, even at three weeks.”

The aim is to get more Derby horses to participate in the second leg of the Triple Crown. For decades, it was normalcy but has become increasingly rare in recent years.

Two consecutive and three of the past five Derby winners have bypassed the Preakness to aim for the final jewel, the Belmont Stakes in June. Of the 95 horses who ran in the Derby dating to 2022, just 13 have gone to the Preakness (13.7%) with just one winner in that group.

“We are going to move it back to be able to ensure that the winner of the Kentucky Derby will then be prepared to compete in the second leg of the Triple Crown,” Moore said at a news conference in Annapolis. “By moving the day, you’re then providing additional time and

AP golf writer

LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil announced an agreement Wednesday with a lead investor that would allow the rival league to forge ahead without the backing of Saudi funding while making players major equity holders.

“So many of them came because this was a good opportunity for them to make some money, and this second bite at the apple is equity instead of cash,” O’Neil said at a news conference at Trump Bedminster, site of this week’s LIV Golf New York event.

O’Neil was short on details, starting with the identity of the investor and how much money was involved. He said the lead investor

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON

aj Mahal, second from right, and other horses compete during the 151st Preakness Stakes on May 16 at Laurel Park in Laurel, Md. space for our horses and the people who compete in the Derby to be able to then now compete to be able to be part of that Triple Crown.”

For at least next year, it has the chance to produce the opposite effect, with the Belmont scheduled for June 5, as announced Monday.

Going from a three-week to a 13day gap between the Preakness and Belmont could force owners and trainers to choose between them, given that modern 3-year-old thoroughbreds typically get significantly more time off.

Knauf said it was a decision made for the long-term future of the Preakness.

Hall of Famer Bob Baffert, who with American Pharoah in 2015 and Justify in 2018 is the only trainer to win the Triple Crown since Affirmed in 1978, said in a social media post Monday that if he has the right horse from the Kentucky Derby, he will continue to go to the Preakness annually. That was in response to the unveiling of a new championship series of races at Churchill

Downs in Louisville, Belmont Park on Long Island and Saratoga Race Course in upstate New York and does not — for now — include the Preakness.

Future changes to the schedule are always possible beyond 2027.

The shift does put the Preakness on the Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend beginning in 2028 and running through ‘31.

“We believe this creates tremendous excitement for our local economy and businesses,” Knauf said.

“Baltimore will become the place to be on Memorial Day weekends, as the spotlight of the racing world descends on Pimlico.”

The change comes with an extension of the media rights agreement with NBC Sports through 2032. The Preakness — as well as the BlackEyed Susan Stakes for fillies on the third Saturday in May — will air on NBC and Peacock for the next six years.

NBC Sports President of Acquisitions of Partnerships Jon Miller said at the news conference that

the network as far back as 10 years ago broached the idea of pushing the Preakness back at least a week, but previous ownership was not interested.

“It’s a success factor for everybody by moving it to the eight days later,” Miller said. “The idea of doing it Saturday-Sunday, quite honestly, was to create a weekend celebration and not just have it be a one-day event in the middle of a Triple Crown series.”

Moving the Preakness coincides with its return to Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore as part of a $500 million reconstruction project, after a one-time stop at Laurel Park.

Next year, there is expected to be limited capacity, with the full, new Pimlico scheduled to be completed by the spring of 2028.

“It’s something business has been a huge champion of,” Greater Baltimore Committee President and CEO Mark Anthony Thomas told the AP. “And so people are very enthusiastic around the state’s investments.”

“has signed a term sheet approved by our board, which will carry and fund LIV going forward.”

“It’s very good news for all of us,” O’Neil said.

O’Neil said LIV is getting “strong interest” from more than a dozen other parties who would be minority investors as the league tries to survive.

“We don’t need them, but we have the opportunity to do it,” he said of other investors.

LIV Golf New York is the penultimate individual event in a season that has been marked by upheaval, particularly the stunning announcement in March that the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia — the financial muscle of LIV since it began — is withdrawing funding after 2026.

One tournament in New Orleans already has been scrapped, and there are serious doubts the season-ending team event in Michigan on Aug. 27-30 will be played, particularly after reports the tournament has not even started preparing for it.

“We have not made any final formal decisions and hope to in the coming weeks,” O’Neil said.

LIV Golf, which launched in 2022, has spent more than $5 billion on the league. That includes some of the nine-figure bonuses to lure top players like Brooks Koepka, Dustin Johnson, Bryson DeChambeau, Jon Rahm and Phil Mickelson.

But it all began to fall apart earlier this year. Koepka was let out of his contract and returned to the PGA Tour, and Patrick Reed chose

not to renew his deal. He is leading the European tour points list and will be eligible to return to the PGA Tour next year.

Lucas Herbert, who has won twice on LIV Golf this year, said Tuesday his management has been in touch with PGA Tour officials.

O’Neil met with team captains on Tuesday, and DeChambeau led a player-only meeting later in the afternoon, though none of the players shared details.

O’Neil said he expected to finalize terms with the lead investor in the next few weeks with the goal of getting it done in September. The plan for what is being referred to as “LIV Golf 2.0” is for 10 team events each year, five of them in the United States and five others around the world.

Rivera leads LSU gym commitments into nationals

BY SCOTT RABALAIS Staff writer

The U.S. Gymnastics Championships begin their four-day run Thursday in Phoenix with the women’s competition taking on a definite future LSU flavor Hezly Rivera, the 2024 U.S. Olympic team gold medalist, returns to defend the women’s all-around title Notebook she won last year at the Smoothie King Center. Rivera is a long-time commitment to the Tigers but plans to defer the start of her college career until after the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Two other LSU recruits — Tatum Drusch and Reese Esponda — will also compete. Both are also planning to defer their enrollment until the 2028-29 academic year.

Rivera, 18, who currently lives

NEW YORK — Longtime college basketball announcer Dick Vitale says he is making positive strides after announcing in April that he had been diagnosed with cancer for the fifth time.

The 87-year-old Vitale said on social media Wednesday that recent blood tests came back “very good” and that the immunotherapy treatments that he has been receiving are “very effective in wiping out the cancer.”

Vitale was first diagnosed with cancer in 2021, when he revealed that he had melanoma. He also was diagnosed with lymphoma and, after being declared cancer-free, learned in 2023 that he had vocal cord cancer. The following year, Vitale was diagnosed with lymph node cancer, and he underwent surgery to help treat it.

Scottish police look into missing athletes reports

LIV Golf has new lead investor and is planning ahead

BY DOUG FERGUSON

Announcer Vitale optimistic despite 5th cancer diagnosis

and trains in Plano, Texas, dominated last year’s championships.

In addition to the all-around crown, she also won on floor and balance beam while sharing first place on uneven bars.

Men’s competition will be Thursday and Saturday, with women’s competition Friday and Sunday.

The women’s competition will be at 9 p.m. Friday on NBC Sports Network and Peacock, with Sunday’s finals at 5 p.m. on NBC.

Injury updates LSU coach Jay Clark said three key Tiger gymnasts underwent offseason surgery but that he expects all three to be ready for the start of fall practice.

Senior Konnor McClain had operations on her shoulder, wrist and ankle, but Clark said she is recovering well. Junior Kaliya Lincoln had work done to her elbow, while se-

nior Kylie Coen also underwent ankle filled, allowing LSU to release its surgery. schedule in early September.

The Tigers have a blockbusterNew skills filled home slate with SEC meets Clark said the Tigers are prepar- against Oklahoma, Florida, Georing for rule changes for 2027 re- gia and Missouri, along with a quiring more difficulty on uneven season opener in January against Arizona State. bars.

LSU is also expected to take part “They took away some connections that had been commonly in the annual Podium Challenge utilized,” he said. “It requires us meet at the Raising Cane’s River to add more skills or do different Center. The Tigers’ road SEC meets include trips to Alabama, releases.

“It takes a while. You may see Arkansas, Auburn and Kentucky, mistakes early in the season with while the SEC Championships the new skills that kids have never begin a two-year stint in Tampa, competed with or haven’t com- Florida.

LSU will not host an NCAA repeted with in a long time. Overall, they’re positive changes.” gional as it did in 2026. Clark plans to again hold LSU’s annual exhibiSchedule talk tion meet in early January.

Now that SEC basketball schedules have been released, Clark For more LSU sports updates, believes TV slots for conference sign up for our newsletter at gymnastics meets will soon be theadvocate.com/lsunewsletter

GLASGOW, Scotland — Police in Scotland said they had received reports that “several” athletes were unaccounted for following the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.

Ugandan sporting news website NBS Sport said four members of the nation’s boxing squad had reportedly gone missing in Scotland and did not rejoin the rest of the delegation before the team’s scheduled return to Uganda on Tuesday.

The Pakistan Today newspaper also reported a missing boxer from the Pakistan team.

There have been numerous cases of athletes seeking asylum following previous Commonwealth Games, including 2018 on the Gold Coast in Australia and in 2014 when hosted by Glasgow again.

Center Washington transfers to Tennessee following injunction

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Former Vanderbilt basketball player Jalen Washington has transferred to Tennessee, announcing his new school less than a week after a judge in Colorado granted a preliminary injunction giving student-athletes who graduated from high school in 2022 another season of eligibility for the upcoming year.

The decision from U.S. District Court Judge Charlotte N. Sweeney last Friday came hours after I’Ashea Myles of the Davidson County Chancery Court issued a temporary injunction to Washington and 18 other players to retain their eligibility.

Washington was the lead plaintiff in a complaint filed July 6 by the Texas Trial Group seeking the injunction.

Georgia to debut all-white uniforms vs. Western Kentucky

ATHENS, Ga. — Georgia announced Wednesday the Bulldogs will debut a new all-white look as an alternate uniform when they play Western Kentucky at home on Sept. 12.

Georgia’s uniform traditionally emphasizes its primary colors, red and black, with silver trim. The new uniform will feature white helmets, with red and black stripes, white jerseys with black numbers and red trim, and white pants.

Georgia players said they were shocked when two veterans, tight end Lawson Luckie and defensive back KJ Bolden, were selected to unveil the new uniform in a team meeting.

Georgia finished No. 6 in the AP Top 25 after winning its second consecutive SEC championship last season.

Corning Classic returns to LPGA schedule after 18 years

CORNING, N.Y. — The Corning Classic is returning to the LPGA Tour schedule in 2027 after an 18-year absence, going from a popular small-market event in western New York to offering a $5 million purse that ranks among the richest outside the majors.

The tournament had a 31-year run through 2009 until it did not renew because the economy was in a downturn and LPGA leadership at the time was demanding more from its sponsors.

Now it will be known simply as “The Classic” when it gets back its familiar spot on the calendar the last week in May. Corning, New York, is about two hours southeast of Buffalo with a population of about 11,000.

Yani Tseng won the last edition of the tournament in 2009.

The Advocate ■ theadvocate.com ■ Thursday, August 6, 2026 ■ 3C

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Donald works out for Rams in latest step on comeback path

BY GREG BEACHAM AP sportswriter

LOS ANGELES — Aaron Donald formally worked out for the Los Angeles Rams on Wednesday, presumably taking one of the final steps before the superstar defensive tackle decides whether to end his 21/2year retirement.

The 35-yearold Donald participated in a hosted workout with the Rams, Donald according to the league’s official transaction wire, which records such workouts with free agents before their possible signings to NFL rosters.

Donald has been working out at the Rams’ Woodland Hills training complex and at home for several weeks in his attempt to return to NFL shape. While the Rams have emphasized their willingness to wait indefinitely for Donald to decide, coach Sean McVay has expressed cautious optimism in the past week about the prospect of lining up Donald and Myles Garrett together this season on a remarkable defensive line.

“If there’s an arrow, it’s trend-

ing upwards,” McVay said last Friday.

McVay indicated that the Rams didn’t expect a decision until after they wrap up training camp at Loyola Marymount University this week. The Rams are planning to reconvene in Woodland Hills on Saturday for their first post-camp practice.

Donald retired somewhat abruptly in March 2024 following a decorated 10-year career spent entirely with the Rams.

He won the AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year award three times along with eight All-Pro selections, 10 Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl championship ring.

Donald apparently began to entertain the idea of a comeback early last month after the Rams traded for Garrett, one of Donald’s few contemporary peers.

The 30-year-old Garrett won two of the last three Defensive Player of the Year awards in Cleveland, where he received five All-Pro nods and seven Pro Bowl selections, along with setting the NFL’s single-season sacks record last year.

“If he’s here, I’m going to be excited to be his teammate, his partner in crime,” Garrett said last week. “I think we’re going to do great things.”

STAFF PHOTO By DAVID GRUNFELD

Saints safety Julian Blackmon runs a drill during training camp on Wednesday in Metairie.

SAINTS

locked in — which I’ve got to be,” Blackmon said. “It’s another Continued from page 1C prove-it year, it’s another oneyear contract, and it’s another chance for me to get out there Beyond their physical skillsets, and play a full season.”

Even when he wasn’t on the Reid and Blackmon are similar personalities who think about the field, Blackmon added value. game in a similar way — some- He played through his injury in thing that is evident while watch- 2024 because he felt compelled ing them communicate on the to be there for a young secondary to lean on. When he couldn’t field.

But the Saints barely got a be on the field last season, he put glimpse of it. Blackmon made on his “coach’s hat” and helped seven tackles and recorded a then-rookie Jonas Sanker where pass breakup in 66 defensive he could.

Sanker turned in a strong snaps against Arizona in the opener last season. He went to rookie season filling Blackmon’s dinner with his agent after the spot in the lineup, and has since shifted over to the game and felt good “Star” position in about his debut per“I feel like, Brandon Staley’s formance, even if it mentally, I’m very defense — a transicame in a loss.

Then he woke up locked in — which tion Blackmon has helped ease based the next morning I’ve got to be. It’s on his own experiand felt something another prove-it ence playing as a off in his shoulder. safety.

Imaging showed the year, it’s another nickel “He took me in problem, and Blackone-year contract, and taught me the mon’s 2025 season was suddenly over. and it’s another way he watches the way he “It was just hard chance for me to film, approaches game to hear, especially get out there and day, everything,” with the anticipation of being back after play a full season.” Sanker said.

Blackmon said he having been hurt did not know how the year before,” JULIAN BLACKMON, his shoulder would Blackmon said.

Saints safety respond until he His contract was out of surgery, added to the uncerbut this recovery went smoother tainty.

While Blackmon has been pro- than the last, and he feels a more ductive when he’s been on the comfortable range of motion in field, he had to wait until the start the joint than he did after his first of training camp to land with a surgery.

Which is good for a lot of reateam last year because he’d played through his first shoulder injury sons — one of them being that he (suffered in Week 1 of the 2024 sea- and Reid have a lot of unused celson) and put off surgery until after ebrations in the bank already, and the season was over. He signed a they’re planning on using them a one-year “prove-it” deal with the lot this season.

“You don’t know how many Saints shortly after Tyrann Mathieu’s sudden retirement last July. handshakes we came up with, Now he was staring at free and we didn’t get to use any of agency again, only this time he them, bro,” Reid said. “We got was coming off back-to-back a whole armory of celebrations injuries. The Saints were there we’re going to be throwing out again, but Blackmon knows he this season.” only has so many chances to show who he is.

Email Luke Johnson at “I feel like, mentally, I’m very ljohnson@theadvocate.com.

SAINTS CAMP OBSERVATIONS

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By GERALD HERBERT

Saints wide receiver Trey Palmer, right, and cornerback Isaac yiadom run through drills on Monday during training camp in Metairie.

Position battles heating up

BY MATTHEW PARAS Staff writer

The longer training camp lasts, the more the New Orleans Saints have started to experiment with their starting lineups.

Coaches across the NFL say there is competition at every position, and New Orleans’ Kellen Moore is no exception. But some spots are less locked down than others.

Through six practices, the team’s position battles have begun to crystallize — with two or three starting spots, in particular, that could be up for grabs. All of them, coincidentally, reside on the defense.

Linebacker Danny Stutsman took a series of first-team reps ahead of Pete Werner for the second straight practice Wednesday, while defensive tackle John Ridgeway took snaps over veteran Nathan Shepherd. Two days earlier, the Saints also rotated in Isaac Yiadom in place of Quincy Riley.

Moore said Monday that the changes were “no big deal,” adding that the Saints would rotate guys in “different capacities” as camp progressed. And that might be true, in some instances. It would be surprising, for instance, if Riley was ultimately relegated to a lesser role after a promising rookie season.

But the swaps do matter to the players involved, particularly for those eager to prove they’re capable of starting in the NFL. “That’s a dream,” Stutsman said when asked how badly he wants to be a starter. “That’s kind of why you wake up. That’s motivation.

At the end of the day, you want to contribute as much as you can for the defense to do as much as I can.

“There’s a respect between everyone in the room, but it’s the kind of job that you want to win. Every

day you’re fighting out there and putting your best thing on tape.”

quarterback (played by assistant defensive line coach Brian Young).

Injuries stacking up

Odds and ends

After putting the pads on earlier this week, the Saints are now dealing with the aftereffects of the ramped-up physicality. Running back Kendre Miller (back), rookie defensive lineman Christen Miller (toe), rookie guard Jeremiah Wright (shoulder) and defensive lineman Keeshawn Silver (calf) were sidelined for Wednesday’s practice, Moore said.

Moore downplayed the significance of Kendre Miller’s latest injury, which naturally drew curiosity given the fourth-year back’s lengthy history. The coach, however, said he did not know the severity of Christen Miller’s toe injury, such as whether it was turf toe.

“I don’t think (so), but we’ll see,” Moore said.

Otherwise, the Saints had their usual attendance, with Bryan Bresee (ACL), Mason Tipton (leg) and Zxavian Harris (foot) still sidelined.

n After having their best practice of camp Monday, the firstteam offense had a quieter outing Wednesday. Tyler Shough went 10-for15, but many of his throws were on the shorter side. His best pass of the day was when he hit Chris Olave on a comeback route about 12 yards for the first down. n The Saints love to run situational drills and Wednesday’s practice concluded with a scenario in which the offense was down 3 with 1:15 left, starting from the opposite 35-yard line. Run by both the 1’s and 2’s, neither quarterback got a satisfying result. Shough’s drive settled for a 51-yard field goal when the signal-caller was jumped by a trio of defenders for the sack. Spencer Rattler‘s unit also had to settle for a field goal after a costly delay of game on thirdand-1 led to an incompletion. n Tanner Brown, competing to unseat kicker Charlie Smyth, went 5-of-6 during the period of practice dedicated to field goals. The UFL product missed from 39 yards, making him 15-of-17 in camp. n Barion Brown is quickly becoming a fan favorite. The sixth-round wide receiver had another noteworthy day with three impressive catches in 1-on-1 drills. And during the Saints’ situational period, Brown hauled in a dime from Rattler, stayed in bounds and took off for 36 yards down the sideline.

After practice, quarterback Zach Wilson raved about the energy the rookie brings.

Play of the day

While this section is usually reserved for action that happens in team drills, there’s an exception that is going to be made for Vernon Broughton’s first rush during one-onone pass rush drills.

Lined up against guard Cesar Ruiz, the second-year defensive lineman drove the 316-pounder back roughly 10 yards in a manner of less than two seconds. The rush even elicited an “oh my God!’ from a fan sitting in the stands.

Broughton’s second rep against Ruiz could have also qualified here, too. On the second time around, the former third-rounder used a spin move to shed Ruiz off him and climb Email Matthew Paras at matt. up the pocket to get to the stand-in paras@theadvocate.com

Falcons outside LB Walker to miss 2026 season with torn ACL

BY MAURA CAREY AP sportswriter

Atlanta Falcons outside linebacker Jalon Walker will miss the 2026 season with a torn ACL, the organization announced Wednesday.

Walker was carted off the field at training camp on Tuesday after going down following a passrush play. The injury was quickly feared to be an ACL tear, as the second-year pass rusher was unable to put any weight on his left leg.

The Falcons selected Walker with the No. 15 pick in the 2025 draft after an outstanding career at neighboring University of Georgia. He immediately bolstered the Falcons’ pass rush, recording 36 tackles, 5.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and a fumble recovery in a strong rookie campaign.

Walker’s efforts helped bring the Falcons from the bottom of the sack leaderboard in 2024 to the second-most sacks (57) in the NFL this past season, behind only the Denver Broncos (68).

The future of the Falcons’ pass rush this season is murky, as Walker’s counterpart, James Pearce Jr., could be awaiting a suspension following an offseason arrest. Police referred to the Feb. 7 incident as a domestic dispute with WNBA player and ex-girlfriend Rickea Jackson.

Walker expressed his excitement about the upcoming season

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By DANNy KARNIK

Atlanta Falcons linebacker Jalon Walker runs during a game against the Saints on Jan. 4 in Atlanta. Walker is out for the season with a torn ACL. after the Falcons’ first day of training camp. He said he stayed local during the offseason, splitting his training between the Falcons practice facility and the University of Georgia.

“I’ve been itching at the bit just to get back in the building and get on the grass,” Walker said. “Enjoyed

the time off, but it’s time to start to roll and get the ball moving.”

The Falcons will now turn to a group of edge rushers consisting of Samson Ebukam, Azeez Ojulari, Cameron Thomas, Bralen Trice and Keshawn Banks. DeAngelo Malone was placed on the reserve/ PUP list on Tuesday.

4C ■ Thursday, August 6, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

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WR Diggs signing with Washington Commanders

BY STEPHEN WHYNO AP sportswriter

Stefon Diggs is signing with the Washington Commanders, a big addition at wide receiver to give quarterback Jayden Daniels and the offense a proven commodity who showed last season he can still be productive more than a decade into his NFL career.

The Commanders agreed with Diggs on a contract for this season, according to a person familiar with the agreement. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Wednesday because the deal had not been announced.

Diggs, a native of nearby Gaithersburg, Maryland, joins Washington for a 12th year in the league and reportedly can make up to $12 million. He spent last season with New England, making 99 catches for 1,123 yards and five touchdowns in 21 games, including the Patriots’ playoff run to the Super Bowl.

New England released him in March, and the 32-year-old went unsigned in free agency while facing strangulation and other criminal charges in connection with a dispute with his former private chef. Diggs was found not guilty in May, and the NFL said in June that he wouldn’t face any discipline after a review de-

termined there was not enough evidence to punish him under its personal conduct policy.

The Commanders had a hole at the position, and they are banking on Diggs filling it. The inhouse options of Treylon Burks and Luke McCaffrey would have put Daniels in a tough spot and likely made No. 1 receiver McLaurin deal Diggs with plenty of double teams this coming season.

Signing Diggs could rule out going after Brandon Aiyuk, a friend of Daniels’ who is still under contract with San Francisco. Aiyuk said on social media in June that he would join Washington immediately if the 49ers released him.

Aiyuk remains on the reserve/ left squad list out West, while Diggs is now in an NFC East that features receivers CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens with Dallas, DeVonta Smith with Philadelphia and Malik Nabers with the New York Giants.

Diggs previously played for Minnesota, Buffalo and Houston during a career that included him being an All-Pro selection in 2020, when he led all players with 127 catches and 1,535 yards.

Since making his debut in 2015

after the Vikings took him in the fifth round of the draft that year, Diggs has 1,025 catches for 12,523 yards and 79 TDs in the regular season and playoffs combined.

That included the “Minneapolis Miracle” catch for Minnesota in the divisional round in January 2018. With 10 seconds left, Diggs leapt and evaded a tackle to score a 61-yard touchdown and beat New Orleans 29-24.

Off the field, it has been a more tumultuous ride, including getting fined more than $200,000 by the Vikings during his final season with them in 2019 for unexcused practice absences. Diggs was traded to Buffalo in March 2020.

Diggs led the Bills in receiving four seasons in a row, but sideline outbursts and cryptic social media messages were also part of his tenure before being traded to Houston in April 2024. A torn ACL ended his time with the Texans, and skipping a voluntary offseason workout got him off to a bumpy start with the Patriots before he turned out to be a reliable option for QB Drake Maye.

Cut in part because he was owed $20.6 million, Diggs now is teaming up with Daniels, who was taken one spot ahead of Maye when they went No. 2 and 3 in the 2024 draft.

Continued from page 1C “Going back over things (with Carroll), you remember how little you knew,” Kiffin said. “I equate it to parenting. The first time you’re a parent compared to if you had six kids now. It’s my sixth job.

You’ll probably do a better job.”

Kiffin had the Tigers easing into practice Wednesday morning. He said the goal is to ramp up gradually, reducing the potential of injuries and to be fresher in the long run.

Fresher — goal strongly implied — for the College Football Playoff. The way he said Ole Miss was last year when Kiffin first embarked on this workload management stratagem.

Injuries will happen, sometimes in the most mundane of ways.

Beck makes his NFL debut while Pickett starts for his 5th team in four years

BY ROB MAADDI

AP pro football writer

practice schedules when he arrived at Ole Miss, wondering how he could gain any possible edge over “big schools” like Georgia and Alabama that “traditionally has better players.”

“Monday, the traditional (Nick) Saban, Kirby (Smart) thing, they start practicing, which is fine; it’s won a lot of championships,” Kiffin explained at a Georgia Football Coaches Association event.

“That same practice those guys do, we just walk through it. I’m conscious of legs and body and tear, and I think it pays off at the end of the year.”

Kiffin favors an Olympic-style ramp, full pads on Tuesday, halfpads on Wednesday, then a 200play walk-through on Thursday.

That last part came from former Oregon coach Chip Kelly, who just seemed to have a fresher, faster team in the fourth quarter.

“Our last physical practice is Wednesday, done at noon,” Kiffin told his fellow coaches. “Ala-

bama, Georgia … their last is Thursday at 6 p.m.”

Friday, however, isn’t a day Kiffin wants his team resting. He prefers a “Fast Friday” practice where his players “rev up” with a short, but full-speed practice, typically centered around special teams work.

He isn’t at Ole Miss anymore, but Kiffin’s formula doesn’t appear to have changed much at LSU. There are games to be won, but he wants his team prepared for a 12-team playoff that continues well into January.

No need to overdo it in August.

“There’s always outside circumstances and things that happen in games and injuries that have a lot to do with your season’s win-loss total,” Kiffin said.

“We’ve got to control what we can control, which is working really hard and getting the players used to playing together.”

Email Jon Blau at jon.blau@ theadvocate.com

Ask the Saints about losing star defensive tackle Bryan Bresee to a season-ending non-contact ACL tear the first day of training camp. But Kiffin is out to tip the odds in his favor.

“We’ve got to control,” he said, “what we can control.”

Kiffin isn’t naïve about the LSU job, maybe his biggest pressure cooker since the Raiders. Expectations are arguably higher even than they were when he was head coach at USC. In SoCal, they demand excellence from their Trojans, sure. But if USC doesn’t win, their fans can go to the beach. Or the mountains. Or the beach and the mountains in the same day.

In Louisiana, LSU football is a 24/7/365 all-consuming passion.

“Expectations are high,” Kiffin said. “I knew that when I came here.”

He is clearly confident he can

deal with them because he has his systems well-established. Ole Miss fans won’t want to hear this, but Kiffin’s six years in Oxford were a touring company-like rehearsal for the Broadway theater that is being on the LSU stage.

Why is he vilified so by the Ole Miss folks? Sure, he left them on the eve of the CFP, perhaps undercutting a trip to the national championship game.

But Kiffin is also vilified there for the same reason Saban was reviled at LSU when he returned to college football at Alabama three years after leaving Baton Rouge in 2004. They’re worried, rightly so, that Kiffin has perfected his craft. Or at the very least polished it to a high gloss.

Kiffin is confident in himself, confident in his plan, confident in his staff. He spoke about how he was recently able to deal with

some transfer portal issue instead of having to shepherd the offensive staff meeting because he knew offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr., who followed Kiffin from Ole Miss, had things well in hand. That he will do things the Kiffin way.

He doesn’t feel he has to drop in and monitor the defensive staff room because Blake Baker, who stayed as LSU’s defensive coordinator instead of leaving for any of several mid-major head coaching jobs, is running the show.

It’s very early days. The promise of LSU, a team of “really good pieces” as Kiffin called it, is counterbalanced by questions. Questions about quarterback Sam Leavitt’s health (Kiffin said the Arizona State transfer looked the best he’s looked, though reporters only saw him during two practice periods) and the enormous job of turning

Continued from page 1C

RABALAIS

Cardinals-Panthers will open NFL’s exhibition season

Welcome to the NFL preseason.

If you want to see starters play, wait until next month when the games count in the standings. Or watch joint practices.

The exhibition schedule kicks off Thursday night with Carson Beck and the Arizona Cardinals facing Kenny Pickett and the Carolina Panthers in the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio.

The preseason is an opportunity for rookies, backups and players fighting for roster spots to get snaps and showcase what they can do. Most first-round picks won’t play much. Cardinals running back Jerimiyah Love (No. 3 pick) and Panthers tackle Monroe Freeling (No. 19) are sitting out the opener.

Beck, a third-round pick from Miami, will be under center for new Cardinals coach Mike LaFleur.

Veteran Jacoby Brissett is Arizona’s starter and Gardner Minshew is the backup.

“I had no clue I was going to start,” Beck said. “Obviously, I thought I was going to play but I really didn’t have any expectations going into any of this. Obviously, our schedule is absolutely crazy right now, practice, meetings. But I’m looking forward to it.”

Beck, who led the Hurricanes to a national championship matchup against Indiana, said he won’t have any butterflies before the game.

“I think the last time I was nervous was maybe when I was 8 years old for our city championship in Pop Warner,” Beck said.

“It’s a game at the end of the day.

It’s an opportunity to go out there, have fun with your teammates and play the game that I love. It’s what I love doing.”

Pickett, a first-round pick by the Steelers in 2022 who led Pittsburgh to a 14-10 record in two seasons, has bounced around the league.

He spent the 2024 season with the Eagles before Philadelphia traded him to Cleveland last year.

The Browns sent him to the Raiders during training camp and he started two games for Las Vegas.

The Panthers signed Pickett to back up Bryce Young.

“Just want to go out there and operate a high level,” Pickett said.

“All the hard work that we’re putting in practice you want to see come to life on game day and that’s everyone just doing their job and executing.”

Carolina won the NFC South last

LSU

“We have a lot of really good pieces. We got a chance to be really good. But everybody wants to know ‘How many wins is that?’ ” Kiffin said. “That’s all outcome, and there’s so many variables in that. We’ve got a lot of work to do with these pieces, get them to play together well, get them to play as a team together.”

There’s urgency but also a pace to that work.

LSU had a morning practice Wednesday but will return in the evening, around 6:35 p.m., on Thursday. Then a lighter walkthrough Friday.

Another morning practice follows Saturday, then no practice at all on Sunday.

Alternating morning and evening practices will follow on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday with a walk-through between them on Wednesday.

Things will get harder toward the middle of the month when consecutive practices are followed by scrimmages on Aug. 15 and Aug. 22. But this first week will fly by, because Kiffin wants to avoid softtissue issues at all costs.

“Those happen, and they linger, and then we fall behind,” Kiffin said. “It’s usually receivers, DBs — and then we can’t practice the way we want to, and the quarterbacks’ timings can be off.”

LSU needs to sync things up between a new quarterback, Arizona State transfer Sam Leavitt, who missed most of spring practice, and a completely revamped receiving corps. But there are enough “offseason training activities,” or OTAs, in college football now that Kiffin doesn’t see the need to overdo it.

“Looking at last year,” Kiffin said, referring to a Rebels squad that made a run to the College Football Playoff semis, “we were as healthy as any team going into the playoffs, if not healthier than anybody. I think a big part of that was because of our change of practicing less and less.”

Kiffin began really focusing on

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By ROSS D. FRANKLIN

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Beck throws during practice at the team’s training camp on Sunday in Glendale, Ariz.

STAFF PHOTO By PEARL SPURLOCK

LSU wide receiver Tyree Holloway runs with the ball during the first day of preseason practice on Wednesday at the team’s practice facility.

season with an 8-9 record. But the Panthers led the 12-win Rams in the final minute of their wild-card playoff game before NFL MVP Matthew Stafford threw a 19-yard touchdown pass to Colby Parkinson with 38 seconds left for a 34-31 victory.

The Panthers have been getting after each other in practice, so coach Dave Canales is looking forward to seeing his team hit an opponent.

“Tempers are flaring a little bit and I just have to remind them none of that helps us. It throws us out of the rhythm of practice,” Canales said.

Practice is everything for coaches in training camp.

Fewer teams play their starters in preseason games so they have to get them ready for the regular season in practice. Joint practices — teams facing opponents ahead of their exhibition game — are a growing trend in the NFL. A total of 28 teams have scheduled joint practices which begin next week.

The Rams have joint practices with the Cowboys and Saints coming up.

“That’ll be basically their preseason,” Los Angeles coach Sean McVay said. “We’ll get an opportunity to see a lot of the younger guys play in the preseason and those are great opportunities to play real football. When we put the pads on, it’s close, but you’re still not playing tackle football. And there are a couple spots. There are always important things that you want to be able to see unfold and be able to establish some depth if, God forbid, we have the inevitable injuries that do occur. But we’ll take it a day at a time and there’s so many things.”

The Detroit Lions are one of the four teams that won’t have any joint practices so some of their starters could see action in the preseason games.

“We have got to get these guys ready for a season,” Lions coach Dan Campbell said. “There’s a chance we play some of these guys in the preseason without the joint practices, and so I’m going to do what I think is best to prepare these guys for 17 weeks, but also understand that we have got to be smart about it and we can’t break them in training camp, and so the approach will stay the same, it will, and you have got to get ready, and you can’t let fear of injury scare you away from what you believe in.”

Several key players already have been hurt in practices over the past week. The Panthers lost second-year edge rusher Nic Scourton to a torn ACL on the first day of camp. They also saw wide receiver Chris Brazzell II go down with a torn LCL.

this 112-piece band of players into a symphony orchestra are reflected in the Tigers’ No. 13 ranking in the preseason coaches’ poll.

The promise is there. The Kiffin factor, shall we say.

If you haven’t found Kiffin as brash as you thought you would when he arrived at LSU, you’re not alone. While he’s been tweaking fewer noses at LSU than in past years, he still found room for a bold prediction on this first day of camp for his first season: “I know as good as we are now, we’re just beginning,” he said.

“Next year, we should have a better roster. We had to sign a (high school) class in a week, then sign a portal class with half our coaches going back and forth (to Ole Miss). We should be in a better position.”

That’s the voice of experience talking.

The Advocate ■ theadvocate.com ■ Thursday,August 6, 2026 ■ 5C

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COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Leavitt ‘full participant’ in Day 1 of LSU practice

BY KOKI RILEY Staff writer

STAFF FILE PHOTO By HILARy SCHEINUK

Madison Prep quarterback Landon Johnson stiff-arms Mandeville tight end Connor Konopka on Sept. 12 at Istrouma High School. Johnson, who plays multiple positions, is a standout defensive back committed to TCU.

BR area brimming with top-flight DBs

BY JACKSON REYES

up. He’s played cornerback, safety, wide receiver and quarterback for Madison Prep.

Johnson totaled 21 tackles, five tackles for Louisiana has long been home to many loss and three interceptions.

The 5-11, 180-pounder totaled 1,517 yards great defensive backs.

The state’s next crop of stars in the sec- passing and 13 touchdowns at quarterback. ondary could emerge this year at the high He also caught nine touchdowns, ran for school level with several promising names. six touchdowns and had three punt return The following list is 10 defensive backs touchdowns. from the Baton Rouge area to watch for this Emmanuel Moses, University High, Sr. upcoming season.

Another key member of the U-High secKameron Grisby, University High, Jr. ondary, Moses is a three-star recruit comKameron Grisby emerged this offseason mitted to UNLV. as one of the top prospects in the state for Moses stuffed the stat sheet last year with the Class of 2028. The 6-foot-2, 180-pound 71 total tackles, seven pass breakups, two junior offers size and athleticism at the po- interceptions and two forced fumbles. The 5-11, 175-pound senior will be a key leader sition.

A four-star recruit by 247Sports, he holds on a program contending for a state title. offers from Florida State, LSU and Georgia Tech, among others. Grisby’s ability in press Mason Moore, Central, Sr. coverage makes him one of the more domiCentral enters the season with one of the best secondaries in the area and safety Manant players in the area. son Moore is a big reason why. The 5-10, Bra’Jon Melancon, North Iberville, Sr. 170-pound senior is a three-star recruit, acNorth Iberville enters the season with cording to 247Sports. new coach in Steven Thomas. Players like He committed to Ole Miss this offseason Melancon should help him hit the ground after totaling 22 tackles, six tackles for loss, running.

21/ 2 sacks and three interceptions in his juThe 6-foot, 170-pound defensive back nior season. committed to Kansas State is a three-star recruit, according to 247Sports. He made Jye Blain, St. James, Sr. an impact at cornerback and wide receiver St. James will look to get over the hump last year. after falling in the Division III nonselect Melancon had 46 tackles, four tackles for semifinals last year. Blain could play a big loss, five interceptions and three pass break- role in helping the Wildcats fulfill their title ups last year. On offense, he caught 40 pass- dreams.

Blain tallied 51 total tackles and 121/ 2 tackes for 775 yards and scored 15 touchdowns. les for loss. He also had three sacks, three Jayd’n Washington, East Ascension, Sr. interceptions and two pass deflections. The A Denham Springs transfer, Washington 5-10, 170-pound defensive back is commitis one of East Ascension’s top new additions. ted to Louisiana Tech.

The 6-foot, 170-pound senior totaled 45 tackles, 12 pass breakups, two interceptions and Cade Hebert, Prairieville, Sr. one sack across 12 starts last season for the Hebert has been one of the core pieces of Yellow Jackets. He is committed to Mc- a growing program. He had 54 tackles with two tackles for loss last year.

Neese State.

The 6-foot, 160-pound defensive back also Jacob Julien, Ascension Catholic, Sr. had three interceptions and two pass deflecJulien was a ballhawk for the Bulldogs tions last season. The Hurricanes made the last year during their run to the Division IV playoffs in the program’s second year of select state title game. The 5-9, 170-pound LHSAA play. Hebert could be a big reason defensive back finished the season with six the Hurricanes can build on that entering interceptions.

Year 3.

He also had 37 total tackles, four pass deMarvin Joseph, Central, Sr. flections and one fumble recovery.

Another member of the talented Wildcats Landon Johnson, Madison Prep, Sr. secondary is Marvin Joseph. The recent Madison Prep features one of the most Houston commitment is a three-star recruit, electric athletes in Baton Rouge in senior according to 247Sports.

The 6-foot, 180-pound safety was a key Landon Johnson. A three-star recruit and All-Metro choice, Johnson is committed to member of the Central team that went 10-3 last year. He earned second-team All-DisTCU. Johnson makes plays wherever he lines trict 4-5A honors last season as well.

Staff writer

SOUTHERN

Continued from page 1C junior had 869 rushing yards and nine rushing touchdowns, both fourth in the Southwestern Athletic Conference, in 11 games.

Southern has 10 tailbacks, two more than last year, and three additions who are all freshmen: Champ Davis, Macario Dade and Deondre Manisfield. Texas A&M transfer Ronnie Crosby, who participated in spring practice, is no longer with the team, Merchant said Tuesday.

The Jaguars returners are graduate student Franklin, junior Barry Remo, redshirt sophomore Jason Gabriel, sophomore Armariyan Asberry, redshirt junior Princeton Cahee and redshirt sophomore Zaccheus Cooper.

While Faulk, like Merchant, doesn’t want to give away much intel publicly, he did express what he wants his rushers to work on.

“Right now, accountability, responsibility,” the Pro Football Hall of Fame tailback said. “Most run-

ning backs, we’re good running the football, catching the football, doing those things. We recruit those kind of guys. But we want to get better for one another and blocking for the quarterback. Making sure we understand those assignments because those two aspects, trust me, I know this, that’s what separates guys at the next level.”

The coach entrusted with developing the right habits in the tailbacks is Covington, who worked in the tight ends room at Colorado when Faulk was the running backs coach last year.

Faulk likes that Covington has playing experience at the position at Wingate University and has a brother in DeAngelo Williams who played running back for 11 seasons in the NFL. Faulk appreciated Covington’s willingness to step out of his comfort zone. At Colorado, instead of being a third helping hand for running backs, he studied a position he’s not as well-versed in: tight ends.

“Coaching the position you know, that’s easy,” Faulk said.

“Coaching the position you didn’t

Quarterback Sam Leavitt was a full participant at LSU’s opening day of preseason practices on Wednesday, the first day of fall camp for coach Lane Kiffin in Baton Rouge.

But Leavitt’s activity and performance on Wednesday are a bit of a mystery, even if Kiffin said after practice that the Arizona State transfer was “moving around really well” after missing most of the spring recovering from a foot injury.

“If you just went out today and saw him, I don’t think that you’d think there was an injury,” Kiffin said.

“He’s all the way back from that.”

Media members were only allowed to watch two periods of Wednesday’s practice, about 10 minutes total.

Leavitt worked on readoption handoffs with his running backs and threw to his receivers against no defenders during the mediaviewing period.

“I thought Sam had a great day today,” Kiffin said. “He really looked the best he’s looked. And I was excited to see that he was even more comfortable with the receivers.”

Leavitt threw for over 4,500 yards and scored 44 total touchdowns in a season and a half with the Sun Devils. He led Arizona State to a Big 12 championship and the College Football Playoff in 2024 before a foot injury — the same injury that caused Leavitt to

STAFF PHOTO By PEARL SPURLOCK

LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt makes a throw to a receiver during Wednesday’s practice at the LSU practice facility. miss much of this spring — derailed his 2025 campaign.

Leavitt was available in a limited capacity during the spring but sat out after doctors removed pins from his foot that were there from the initial surgery. Kiffin then said over the summer that Leavitt would be a full participant to start fall camp in August.

“Sam’s doing great,” Kiffin told the Baton Rouge Rotary Club last week. “He’s coming back from a foot injury. He’s (at) full strength.

Now, it’s just about getting the timing down with everybody.”

In his place, Elon transfer Landen Clark and Southern Cal transfer Husan Longstreet split reps at firstteam quarterback during the spring.

Neither quarterback arrived at LSU with much high-level playing experience, resulting in an up-

and-down spring for both players. But both Longstreet and Clark improved by the end of it and showcased their impressive arm strength and mobility more effectively.

Longstreet was a five-star recruit in the 2025 class and threw for 103 yards on just 15 pass attempts in his only season with the Trojans.

Clark scored 29 total touchdowns and threw for 2,321 yards in 11 starts at Elon last season as a first-year starter and redshirt freshman.

Longstreet and Clark were present at Wednesday’s practice, taking reps after Leavitt.

Email Koki Riley at koki.riley@theadvocate. com. For more LSU sports updates, sign up for our newsletter at theadvocate.com/ lsunewsletter

New coach Morris aims to get Okla. St. back on track

BY TIM WILLERT Associated Press

STILLWATER, Okla, — New Oklahoma State football coach Eric Morris was busy bringing people together long before fall camp started Wednesday.

Morris, hired in November Morris to replace Cowboys legend Mike Gundy, has added 88 new players since then, including 21 players he coached at North Texas State.

“Our guys have meshed,” Morris told The Associated Press outside the team’s training facility. “We spent a lot of time together this offseason because I thought building relationships was such an important thing.”

Oklahoma State returns just 25 players from last

season’s team, which finished 1-11 and hasn’t won a Big 12 Conference game since Nov. 25, 2023.

“We just have so many new people that don’t know each each other and I think that was something that we’ve done a good job of,” Morris said. “Now we’ve got to bring ’em all together, teach them how to play football and get them to execute on Saturdays.”

Execution is something that eluded Oklahoma State in 2024 and 2025, when Gundy was fired after the team’s third game. The team’s star quarterback in the late 1980s, Gundy posted winning records every season from 2006 to 2023 and had a career record of 170-90.

Morris, who has a reputation for helping quarterbacks — including North Texas transfer Drew Mestemaker — was hired to revive the program Gundy brought to prominence.

RUNNING BACK CROSBY LEAVES PROGRAM Texas A&M transfer Ronnie Crosby is no longer with the team, offensive coordinator Ken Merchant said at preseason camp practice on Tuesday.

“Ronnie Crosby is not with us anymore,” Merchant said.“When he was here, he looked good, and I wish him all the best.”

No further details on his departure were provided. Crosby, who is from DeRidder, signed with Southern on Jan. 13 after entering the portal on Jan. 11.

Crosby, who would’ve been a senior, was with Southern during spring practice after spending three seasons at Texas A&M. He didn’t appear in a game his first two seasons with the Aggies and had a carry for one yard in a game in 2025.

The 5-8, 210-pound running back was a no-star recruit in the 2023 recruiting class after playing at DeRidder High School. During his senior season, he had 192 carries for 1,341 yards and 14 touchdowns. He also had eight catches for 61 yards.

Toyloy Brown

play that requires skill. That showed me that he has the ability to coach. So bringing him here, putting him at his natural position he knows, he falls into that easily.”

Covington’s coaching talent was also recognized when he was selected for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers National Coaching Academy in May. He was one of 25 finalists picked from almost 1,000 applicants.

Southern’s secrecy in discussing its offensive plans ahead of the season has been a common theme so

far through camp. What is known is Faulk has challenged Holly to take another step up in his on-field production and, more importantly, be a true leader in the locker room.

The tailbacks who had the next most opportunities were Franklin and Remo. Franklin averaged 4.1 yards per carry in the four games he played before suffering a noncontact foot injury that required surgery on Oct. 7, 2025. He’s a full participant now and is set to be the 225-pound power back Southern

Mestemaker threw for 4,379 yards and 34 touchdowns last season as a redshirt freshman.

“I just want to see these guys compete,” Morris said. “Luckily, I’ve been in the majority of the Big 12 stadiums. I’ve coached in them, so it’s not like a thing where I’m anxious to see the crowd or whatever. But I do think it will be a ton of fun for me and a great personal experience to walkout into Boone Pickens (Stadium) for the first time.”

The NCAA does not keep records for most newcomers on a roster, but Colorado documented 87 on its 2023 roster, Deion Sanders’ first as coach.

“We’ve broken a lot of records in our time,” Morris said. “Time will tell if this is one I’m proud of or not proud of.

“I think I’ll be able to answer that question after you look at our wins and losses this year.”

missed last year.

Remo had a strong final few games in 2025, ending the season with 50 rushes for 289 yards (5.8 yards per carry) and two touchdowns. The 5-9, 195-pound product from Catholic was applauded by the team last year for his blue-collar approach.

Asberry, similar to Remo, waited his turn and had a solid freshman season. The former Southern Lab star had 114 rushing yards on 29 attempts, 3.9 yards per carry.

Faulk has confidence in them as well as the less proven players.

However, like the quarterback competition, Southern won’t reveal much publicly even though it has an idea of what the running back rotation will look like. The focus is improving each day and naturally developing camaraderie.

“I like the closeness between that room and what those guys have, and what they’re building,” Faulk said.

“It’s a healthy competition. Like every day, they go out there, and they want to outshine one another.

They’re not hoping that the other one does worse. They’re hoping that they do better.”

6C ■ Thursday, August 6, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

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Mets to pay $8.1M to Pirates in Weaver trade

BY RONALD BLUM AP baseball writer

The New York Mets will pay more than $8.1 million to Pittsburgh as part of this week’s trade that sent pitcher Luke Weaver to the Pirates for minor league infielder Sammy Stafura, covering most of the nearly $13.4 million remaining on the right-hander’s contract.

Pittsburgh will in effect pay Weaver just $229,412 this year, a prorated share of the $780,000 minimum salary. Weaver had $2,352,941 remaining of his $8 million salary for 2026 at the time of Monday’s trade and the Mets will pay the Pirates four installments of $530,882 on Aug. 24 and 28, and Sept. 11 and 25, according to trade details obtained by The Associated Press.

New York will pay the Pirates $6 million next year, offsetting most of his $11 million salary for 2027.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By yUKI IWAMURA The Mets owe $500,000 each on New york Mets pitcher Luke Weaver throws out Los Angeles Dodgers April 2, 6 and 30; May 14 and 28; baserunner Teoscar Hernández at first base during the eighth inning on June 11 and 25; July 9 and 23; Aug. July 26 in New york.

6 and 20; and Sept. 3.

In all, the Mets will give the Pirates $8,123,529. Weaver’s $22 Hoffman from Blue Jays to Twins former All-Star reliever.

Doval had $1,859,358 remaining million, two-year contract had $13,352,941 left at the time of the Toronto will pay Minnesota $3.75 from his $6.1 million salary, leavtrade. million to offset part of the reliev- ing the Pirates in effect responsier’s $11 million salary in 2027, the ble for $750,000. The Yankees will Taillon from Cubs to Blue Jays final season of a $33 million, three- make payments of $221,872 each on Aug. 14 and 29, Sept. 11 and 25, Chicago agreed to pay $4,956,791 year contract.

Minnesota will receive $625,000 and Oct. 9. to Toronto as part of Sunday’s trade that sent the right-hander to the on the first of each month from Blue Jays for a player to be named. April through August. The Twins Rogers from Orioles to Red Sox Taillon had $5,390,374 left from took on $3,235,294 remaining of his As part of Monday’s trade that his $18 million salary in the final $11 million salary this year as part sent catcher Adley Rutschman season of a $68 million, four-year of Monday’s trade that sent right- from Baltimore to Boston, the Oricontract, leaving Toronto in effect hander John Klein, left-hander oles included catcher Jake Rogers responsible for $433,583. He had Dasan Hill and infielder Dameu- and will pay the Red Sox $667,647 been designated for assignment. ry Pena to Toronto. The Blue Jays on Oct. 1.

Chicago will pay Toronto also receive $250,000 in internaRogers was owed $897,059 of $1,239,197 each on Aug. 14 and tional signing bonus allotment. his $3.05 million salary, leaving 28, and Sept. 11, and $1,239,200 him to cost the Red Sox in effect Varsho from Blue Jays to Astros on Sept. 25. a prorated share of the minimum.

Baltimore received catcher CarToronto is paying Houston Ray from Giants to Padres $1,609,626 as part of Monday’s deal los Narváez, right-handers AnSan Francisco will pay San Di- in which the Astros dealt right- thony Eyanson and Kyson Witherego $4,176,471, leaving the Padres hander Spencer Arrighetti to the spoon, outfielder Enddy Azocar, and a player to be named or cash. in effect responsible for $3,176,470 Blue Jays.

Varsho was owed $3,161,765 In other trades involving internaof the remaining $7,352,941 of the left-hander’s $25 million salary. from his $10.75 million salary. The tional signing bonus pool allocation: The 2021 AL Cy Young Award win- Blue Jays will make payments of — The Los Angeles Dodgers ner is in the final season of a $115 $804,813 each on Aug. 21 and Sept. sent $250,000 in allocation and 27. outfielder Jack Suwinski to Tampa million, five-year contract.

Bay for catcher Hunter Feduccia Right-hander Miguel Mendez and right-hander Jacob Kmatz. and shortstop Joniel Hernandez Doval from Yankees to Pirates — Pittsburgh acquired rightwent to the Giants as part of MonNew York is paying Pittsburgh day’s trade. San Francisco owes $1,109,358 as part of Saturday’s hander Ron Marinaccio from San $1,044,118 installments on Aug. 14 trade that sent catcher Omar Al- Diego for $500,000 in allocation, and 31, and Sept. 14, and $1,044,117 fonzo and minor league outfielder then designated the pitcher for on Sept. 30.

Luis Cruz to the Yankees for the assignment.

SCOREBOARD Hole-in-one

Las Vegas Golden State Dallas Los Angeles Phoenix Portland Seattle

Jay Jackson Course: Beaver Creek Club selection: 8-iron Hole, yardage: No. 8, n/a Witnesses: Guy France, Sal Arnone

Tuesday’s games

.700 .700 .613 .393 .375 .367 .182

3½ 3½ 6 12½ 13½ 13½ 20

Wednesday’s games

NFL Thursday

9 9 12 17 20 19 27

Golden State 92, Toronto 81

Odds FAVORITE Carolina

21 21 19 11 12 11 6

OPEN TODAY O/U UNDERDOG 1½ 1½ (35½) at ARIZONA

College Football Saturday, Aug. 29

FAVORITE OPEN TODAY O/U UNDERDOG at TCU 6½ 7 (48½) N. Carolina at USC 35½ 38½ (59½) San Jose St. at VIRGINIA 5½ 5½ (54½) NC State at ND STATE 8½ 7½ (48½) Jax. State at E. MICH. 7½ 8½ (53½) Sac. State at STANFORD 3½ 4½ (50½) Hawaii at FLOR. ST. 30½ 30½ (52½) N. Mexico St. at UNLV 3½ 5½ (59½) Memphis

Thursday, Sept. 3

FAVORITE OPEN TODAY O/U UNDERDOG at RUTGERS 30½ 30½ (54½) UMass at KENN. ST. 21½ 23½ (53½) W. Georgia at BUFFALO 27½ 26½ (48½) Albany at DELAW. 30½ 28½ (56½) Merrimack at W. FOREST 22½ 22½ (49½) Akron at UCF 38½ 39½ (57½) Beth-Cook. at GEO. TECH 7½ 7 (50½) Colorado at MISSOURI 50½ 52½ (60½) UAPB at MINN. 43½ 45½ (51½) E. Illinois at UTAH 35½ 34½ (57½) Idaho at ILLINOIS 27½ 27½ (56½) UAB

MLB Thursday

American League FAVORITE LINE at BALTIMORE -168 at SEATTLE -158 at BOSTON -185 at KAN. CITY -120 National League FAVORITE LINE at MILWAUKEE -139 at PHILA. -334 at ATLANTA -157 San Diego -111 Interleague FAVORITE LINE at CINCINNATI -182 N.Y Mets -110 Toronto -120

UNDERDOG LA Angels Detroit Chi. White Sox Minnesota

LINE +142 +139 +153 +101

UNDERDOG Pittsburgh Washington Miami at ARIZONA

LINE +117 +270 +130 -107

UNDERDOG Athletics at CLEVELAND at CHi. CUBS

LINE +151 -109 +102

Pro basketball WNBA glance EASTERN CONFERENCE Indiana Atlanta New York Washington Chicago Toronto Connecticut

W 19 19 19 17 11 10 7

L 11 11 13 12 19 20 23

Pct .633 .633 .594 .586 .367 .333 .233

GB — — 1 1½ 8 9 12

Minnesota

W 25

L 6

Pct .806

GB —

WESTERN CONFERENCE

New York 92, Seattle 86 Atlanta 96, Phoenix 82 Washington 96, Dallas 92 Los Angeles at Chicago, n

Thursday’s games

Las Vegas at Indiana, 6 p.m.

Los Angeles at Minnesota, 8 p.m.

Toronto at Portland, 9 p.m.

Pro football NFL preseason glance Thursday’s games

Carolina vs Arizona at Canton, Ohio, 7 p.m.

Thursday, Aug. 13

Detroit at Cincinnati, 6 p.m.

Green Bay at Pittsburgh, 6 p.m.

Indianapolis at New England, 6:30 p.m.

Arizona at Las Vegas, 7 p.m.

L.A. Chargers at Houston, 7 p.m.

Tennessee at San Francisco, 8 p.m.

Friday, Aug. 14

Denver at Atlanta, 6 p.m.

Miami at Washington, 6 p.m.

Tampa Bay at N.Y. Jets, 6 p.m.

Saturday, Aug. 15

Carolina at Buffalo, noon Cleveland at Chicago, noon Minnesota at N.Y. Giants, noon Jacksonville at New Orleans, 3 p.m.

L.A. Rams at Kansas City, 3 p.m.

Philadelphia at Baltimore, 6 p.m.

Dallas at Seattle, 7 p.m.

College football USA TODAY PRESEASON POLL Rank Rec. Pts. Lrk. Votes 1. Ohio State (12-2) 1,741 6 38 2. Oregon (13-2) 1,637 4 6 3. Georgia (12-2) 1,591 5 7 4. Texas (10-3) 1,544 13 2 5. Notre Dame (10-2) 1,524 11 5 6. Indiana (16-0) 1,522 1 14 7. Miami (Fla.) (13-3) 1,409 2 0 8. Texas A&M (11-2) 1,174 8 0 9. Oklahoma (10-3) 1,104 10 0 10. Ole Miss (13-2) 1,096 3 0 11. Alabama (11-4) 1,050 9 0 12. Texas Tech (12-2) 1,034 7 0 13. LSU (7-6) 951 NR 0 14. SUSC (9-4) 838 21 0 15. BYU (12-2) 781 12 0 (9-4) 719 22 0 16. Michigan 17. Penn State (7-6) 463 NR 0 (8-5) 428 NR 0 18. Tennessee 19. Washington (9-4) 406 NR 0 20. SMU (9-4) 378 NR 0 (11-2) 313 14 0 21. Utah 22. Iowa (9-4) 291 17 0 23. Clemson (7-6) 235 NR 0 24. Houston (10-3) 194 19 0 25. Missouri (8-5) 158 NR 0 Dropped Out: No. 15 Vanderbilt (10-3); No. 16 Virginia (11-3); No. 18 Tulane (11-3); No. 20 James Madison (12-2); No. 23 Navy (11-2);

No. 24 Georgia Tech (9-4); No. 25 Illinois (9-4).

Others Receiving Votes: Louisville (9-4) 153; Florida (4-8) 147; TCU (9-4) 63; Illinois (9-4) 62; Arizona (9-4) 50; South Carolina (4-8) 50; Virginia (11-3) 40; Vanderbilt (10-3) 37; Auburn (5-7) 29; Georgia Tech (9-4) 26; Boise State (9-5) 24; Oklahoma State (1-11) 22; UNLV (10-4) 17; Florida State (5-7) 13; North Carolina State (8-5) 13; Nebraska (7-6) 12; Virginia Tech (3-9) 12; Memphis (8-5) 9; Arizona State (8-5) 8; Duke (9-5) 6; James Madison (12-2) 6; New Mexico (9-4) 4; Pittsburgh (8-5) 4; Navy (11-2) 3; Western Michigan (10-4) 3; San Diego State (9-4) 2; California (7-6) 1; Hawaii (9-4) 1; Jacksonville State (9-5) 1; Kansas State (6-6) 1.

Pro soccer MLS Glance Western Conference Vancouver Los Angeles FC San Jose Houston Real Salt Lake FC Dallas St Louis City Portland Seattle Minnesota United Colorado LA Galaxy San Diego FC Austin FC Sporting Kansas City

W 10 10 10 9 8 7 7 7 7 6 7 5 5 4 4

Eastern Conference

L 3 5 5 6 6 5 6 8 7 6 10 7 7 9 12

T Pts GF GA 4 34 38 17 4 34 35 19 3 33 37 24 2 29 25 24 3 27 29 25 6 27 32 25 5 26 24 24 3 24 33 33 3 24 20 22 6 24 20 25 1 22 27 25 7 22 24 29 6 21 32 29 5 17 22 36 2 14 18 46

W L T Pts GF GA Nashville 12 2 4 40 35 14 Inter Miami CF 11 2 5 38 45 32 New England 9 5 3 30 28 21 Chicago 9 6 2 29 32 23 New York City FC 7 6 5 26 31 24 Cincinnati 7 6 5 26 45 44 Charlotte FC 7 7 4 25 29 27 New York 7 7 4 25 29 39 D.C. United 5 5 8 23 26 29 Orlando City 6 10 2 20 30 47 Columbus 5 8 5 20 26 28 Toronto FC 3 7 8 17 24 32 Philadelphia 4 10 4 16 25 33 CF Montréal 4 10 4 16 24 35 Atlanta 3 12 3 12 19 33 NOTE: Three points for victory, one point for tie.

Friday’s games

Toronto FC 1, New York City FC 1, tie

Saturday’s games

Nashville 2, D.C. United 2, tie New England 2, CF Montréal 2, tie New York 3, Orlando City 2 Philadelphia 3, Atlanta 2 Los Angeles FC 1, Vancouver 1, tie Columbus 2, Miami 2, tie Chicago 2, Charlotte FC 1 Houston 2, Sporting Kansas City 0 San Diego FC 1, Minnesota 1, tie Real Salt Lake 1, St Louis City 1, tie Colorado 1, Austin FC 0 Cincinnati 4, San Jose 2 FC Dallas 0, LA Galaxy 0, tie Portland 2, Seattle 1

Saturday’s games

Houston at New England, 3:30 p.m.

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL American League glance East Division Tampa Bay New York Boston Baltimore Toronto

W 68 64 62 56 54

Central Division Chicago Cleveland Minnesota Detroit Kansas City

W 59 57 56 55 48

West Division Houston Texas Seattle Athletics Los Angeles

W 59 57 55 45 43

National League glance

L 46 50 51 58 61

Pct .596 .561 .549 .491 .470

GB — 4 5½ 12 14½

L 54 58 59 58 67

Pct .522 .496 .487 .487 .417

GB — 3 4 4 12

L 57 58 59 69 71

Pct .509 .496 .482 .395 .377

GB — 1½ 3 13 15

Tuesday’s games

Baltimore 3, L.A. Angels 1 N.Y. Mets 6, Cleveland 2 Cincinnati 5, Athletics 4 N.Y. Yankees 2, St. Louis 0 Boston 14, Chicago White Sox 2 Kansas City 8, Minnesota 2 Houston 7, Toronto 2 Texas 5, San Francisco 4 Tampa Bay 9, Colorado 7, 11 innings Detroit 8, Seattle 0

Wednesday’s games

Toronto 5, Houston 4, 10 innings Texas 6, San Francisco 0 Tampa Bay 4, Colorado 0 Baltimore 5, L.A. Angels 2 Cincinnati 3, Athletics 2 Boston 4, Chicago White Sox 0 Kansas City 2, Minnesota 1 N.Y. Mets 6, Cleveland 5, 10 innings St. Louis at N.Y. Yankees, n Detroit at Seattle, n

Thursday’s games

L.A. Angels (TBD) at Baltimore (Young 8-2), 11:35 a.m.

Athletics (Barnett 1-1) at Cincinnati (TBD), 11:40 a.m.

N.Y. Mets (McLean 7-7) at Cleveland (Griffin 12-3), 12:10 p.m.

Toronto (Cease 7-5) at Chicago Cubs (Peterson 6-7), 1:20 p.m.

Detroit (Valdez 6-7) at Seattle (Miller 4-5), 3:10 p.m.

Chicago White Sox (Castillo 3-9) at Boston (Suarez 4-3), 6:10 p.m.

Minnesota (Ober 7-3) at Kansas City (Wacha 5-8), 6:40 p.m.

East Division Atlanta Philadelphia Miami Washington New York

W 69 61 58 55 49

L 45 53 57 60 66

Pct .605 .535 .504 .478 .426

GB — 8 11½ 14½ 20½

W 70 66 57 56 55

L 43 49 58 58 58

Pct .619 .574 .496 .491 .487

GB — 5 14 14½ 15

W 69 60 59 48 45

L 46 54 55 67 70

Pct .600 .526 .518 .417 .391

GB — 8½ 9½ 21 24

Central Division Milwaukee Chicago Pittsburgh St. Louis Cincinnati

West Division Los Angeles Arizona San Diego San Francisco Colorado

Tuesday’s games

Philadelphia 5, Washington 0 N.Y. Mets 6, Cleveland 2 Cincinnati 5, Athletics 4 N.Y. Yankees 2, St. Louis 0 Atlanta 4, Miami 2 Milwaukee 4, Pittsburgh 2 Chicago Cubs 5, L.A. Dodgers 1 Texas 5, San Francisco 4 Tampa Bay 9, Colorado 7, 11 innings San Diego 9, Arizona 4

Wednesday’s games

Texas 6, San Francisco 0 Chicago Cubs 7, L.A. Dodgers 6 Tampa Bay 4, Colorado 0 Cincinnati 3, Athletics 2 Atlanta 4, Miami 1 N.Y. Mets 6, Cleveland 5, 10 innings Washington 10 Philadelphia 4 St. Louis at N.Y. Yankees, n Pittsburgh at Milwaukee, n San Diego at Arizona, n

Thursday’s games

Athletics (Barnett 1-1) at Cincinnati (TBD), 11:40 a.m.

N.Y. Mets (McLean 7-7) at Cleveland (Griffin 12-3), 12:10 p.m.

Pittsburgh (Ashcraft 11-4) at Milwaukee (May 5-7), 1:10 p.m.

Toronto (Cease 7-5) at Chicago Cubs (Peterson 6-7), 1:20 p.m.

Washington (TBD) at Philadelphia (Sánchez 14-4), 5:05 p.m.

Miami (Junk 5-6) at Atlanta (Pérez 7-6), 6:15 p.m.

San Diego (Buehler 6-5) at Arizona (Drake 0-0), 8:40 p.m.

BOX SCORES Texas 6, San Francisco 0

Toronto 5, Houston 4

San Francisco Texas ab r h bi ab r h bi Eldridge 1b 5 0 1 0 Langford lf 3 1 1 0 Lee rf 5 0 1 0 Duran 3b 3 0 0 0 Adames ss 3 0 0 0 Nimmo rf 3 2 2 2 Devers dh 4 0 2 0 Burger 1b 3 2 1 0 Basabe 2b-3b 4 0 1 0 Foscue dh 2 1 1 2 Kennedy 3b 3 0 0 0 Peders. ph-dh 2 0 1 0 Furm. ph-2b 0 0 0 0 Díaz c 4 0 1 1 McCray cf 3 0 0 0 Lopez ss 4 0 2 1 Leonard lf 3 0 1 0 Cauley 2b 4 0 0 0 Gilbert ph 1 0 0 0 Carter cf 3 0 0 0 Cavanaugh c 4 0 2 0 Totals 35 0 8 0 Totals 31 6 9 6 San Francisco 000 000 000 — 0 Texas 004 010 01x — 6 DP—San Francisco 1, Texas 0. LOB—San Francisco 11, Texas 6. 2B—Leonard (1), Cavanaugh (1), Langford (14), Díaz (9).

3B—Foscue (1). HR—Nimmo (12).

IP H R ER BB SO San Francisco Whisenhunt L,2-3 31⁄3 5 4 4 3 4 Seymour 22⁄3 2 1 1 1 2 Foley 1 0 0 0 0 1 Beck 1 2 1 1 1 1 Texas Bradford 41⁄3 5 0 0 2 5 Alexander W,2-2 12⁄3 0 0 0 0 3 Ahlstrom 1 1 0 0 0 1 Silseth 1 1 0 0 1 1 C.Winn 1 1 0 0 0 0 ABS Challenge—Bradford (Ball-Overturned to Strike).

Umpires—Home, Louie Krupa; First, Adam Beck; Second, Dan Iassogna; Third, Adrian Johnson.

T—2:34. A—26,098 (40,000).

Toronto

Houston ab r h bi ab r h bi Lukes rf 5 0 1 0 Peña ss 5 1 0 0 Okamoto 1b 5 1 1 1 Alvarez dh 4 0 1 1 Sánchez lf 3 1 1 2 Altuve 2b 5 1 2 1 Springer dh 3 0 0 0 Varsho cf 4 1 1 0 Valenzuela c 3 0 0 0 Trammell rf-lf4 0 0 0 Kirk ph-c 1 0 0 0 Walker 1b 4 1 2 1 J.Smith 3b 2 0 0 0 Wade lf 4 0 3 1 Urías ph-2b 2 1 0 0 C.Smith pr-rf 0 0 0 0 Cleme. 2b-3b 4 1 1 2 Diaz c 4 0 0 0 Giménez ss 3 0 0 0 Allen 3b 3 0 1 0 Straw cf 4 1 1 0 Paredes ph-3b1 0 0 0 Totals 35 5 5 5 Totals 38 4 10 4 Toronto 000 003 000 2 — 5 Houston 003 000 000 1 — 4 E—Allen (5). DP—Toronto 0, Houston 1.

LOB—Toronto 4, Houston 7. 2B—Straw (11), Walker (24), Wade (4). HR—Sánchez (8), Clement (9), Altuve (13). SB—Varsho (10), C.Smith (10).

IP H R ER BB SO Toronto Taillon 4 6 3 3 2 4 Miles 2 2 0 0 0 2 Fluharty 1 0 0 0 0 2 Rogers 1 1 0 0 0 0 Varland W,4-4 1 0 0 0 0 1 Lee S,1-1 1 1 1 0 0 0 Houston Brown 6 3 3 3 2 8 Okert 1 0 0 0 0 1 Abreu 1 0 0 0 0 2 Hader 1 0 0 0 0 1 Sousa L,0-1 1 2 2 1 0 1 HBP—Okert (Giménez).

ABS Challenge—Brown (Ball-Overturned to Strike); Valenzuela (Strike-Overturned to Ball); Rogers (Ball-Confirmed); Diaz (Strike-Overturned to Ball).

Ejected—Espada.

Umpires—Home, Mike Muchlinski; First, Doug Eddings; Second, Emil Jimenez; Third, Gabe Morales.

T—2:55. A—27,751 (41,000).

Cincinnati 3, Athletics 2

Chicago Cubs 7, L.A. Dodgers 6

Athletics

Los Angeles Chicago ab r h bi ab r h bi Ohtani dh 5 2 3 3 Crw-Arm. dh 5 2 3 4 Pages cf 4 0 1 0 Suzuki rf 5 1 1 0 Call cf 0 0 0 0 Bregman 3b 5 0 1 1 Rortvedt c 0 0 0 0 Kelly c 5 0 3 0 Freeman 1b 3 0 1 0 Triantos pr 0 0 0 0 E.Hernán. 1b 2 0 0 0 Amaya c 0 0 0 0 Edman lf-cf 5 0 1 0 Busch 1b 5 1 2 0 Tucker rf 5 1 1 0 Hoerner 2b 4 1 3 1 Betts ss 5 1 4 0 Happ lf 4 0 0 0 Muncy 3b 4 1 1 3 Swanson ss 4 1 1 1 Rojas 2b 4 1 2 0 Taylor cf 3 1 1 0 Feduccia c 3 0 0 0 T.Hrnán. ph-lf 1 0 0 0 Totals 41 6 14 6 Totals 40 7 15 7 Los Angeles 100 000 050 — 6 Chicago 120 300 10x — 7 E—Muncy (10). LOB—Los Angeles 9, Chicago 10. 2B—Swanson (15), CrowArmstrong (22), Busch (19), Suzuki (20), Hoerner (24). HR—Ohtani 2 (26), Muncy (22), Crow-Armstrong 2 (26).

IP H R ER BB SO Los Angeles Lauer L,6-6 4 11 6 6 0 1 Henriquez 1 1 0 0 0 3 1 2 1 1 0 2 Hurt 1 ⁄3 2 ⁄3 0 0 0 0 0 J.Hernández 2 ⁄3 1 0 0 0 0 Phillips 1 ⁄3 0 0 0 0 0 Dreyer Chicago Imanaga W,8-9 5 8 1 1 0 6 Ferguson 2 1 0 0 0 3 1 ⁄3 4 4 4 0 0 Thielbar 1 1 1 0 2 Zeferjahn H,11 2⁄3 Webb S,6-10 1 0 0 0 0 0 HBP—Henriquez (Taylor), Zeferjahn (Call).

WP—Henriquez, Zeferjahn.

T—3:04. A—38,691 (41,363).

Cincinnati ab r h bi ab r h bi Butler rf 4 1 1 1 De La Cr. ss 3 0 1 0 Wilson dh 4 0 0 0 Stewart 1b 4 1 1 0 Soderstrom lf2 1 1 0 Myers cf 4 0 1 0 Heim c 4 0 1 1 Suárez dh 3 0 0 0 McNeil 1b-2b 4 0 0 0 Marte rf 2 1 1 1 White 3b-1b 4 0 1 0 Bleday lf 3 0 0 0 Walton 2b 2 0 0 0 Trevino c 3 0 1 1 Muncy ph-3b 1 0 0 0 Hayes 3b 3 0 0 0 Bolte cf 3 0 0 0 McLain 2b 3 1 1 1 Williams ss 3 0 0 0 Totals 31 2 4 2 Totals 28 3 6 3 Athletics 100 001 000 — 2 Cincinnati 010 011 00x — 3 LOB—Athletics 4, Cincinnati 3. 2B—Heim (13). HR—Butler (7), McLain (9). SB— Marte (6), De La Cruz (21). SF—Marte (1).

IP H R ER BB SO Athletics Lopez 5 4 2 2 1 9 2 Juenger L,0-1 ⁄3 2 1 1 0 1 1 Suarez ⁄3 0 0 0 0 0 Blewett 2 0 0 0 0 1 Cincinnati Lowder W,4-7 6 4 2 2 2 3 Burke H,13 11⁄3 0 0 0 0 3 2 Antone H,7 ⁄3 0 0 0 0 0 Pagán S,13-16 1 0 0 0 0 1 ABS Challenge—McNeil (Strike-Confirmed); Bleday (Strike-Overturned to Ball); Walton (Strike-Confirmed); Bolte (Strike-Confirmed); Butler (Strike-Overturned to Ball); Pagán (Ball-Confirmed).

Umpires—Home, Will Little; First, Ryan Additon; Second, Jonathan Parra; Third, Lance Barksdale.

T—2:22. A—16,544 (43,891).

THIS DATE IN BASEBALL Aug. 6 1908 — John Lush threw a six-inning, rain-shortened no-hitter for the St. Louis Cardinals, who beat the Brooklyn Dodgers 2-0. It was Lush’s second no-hitter against the Dodgers.

1933 — Pinky Higgins of the Philadelphia Athletics hit for the cycle and drove in five runs in a 12-8 win over the Washington Senators.

1952 — Satchel Paige, 46, became the oldest pitcher in major league history to pitch a complete game or a shutout when he beat Virgil Trucks and the Detroit Tigers 1-0 in 12 innings.

1972 — Hank Aaron hit his 660th and 661st career home runs to break Babe Ruth’s record for most home runs with one club.

The 661st came in the 10th inning to give the Atlanta Braves a 4-3 triumph over the Cincinnati Reds.

1981 — As a result of a seven-week strike, major league baseball players approved a split-season format. The New York Yankees, Oakland A’s, Philadelphia Phillies and Los Angeles Dodgers were declared the first-half champions and automatically qualified for the divisional series.

1985 — The Major League Baseball Players’ Association went on strike.

1986 — The Texas Rangers beat the

Baltimore Orioles 13-11 in a record-setting battle of grand slams. Texas’ Toby Harrah hit a grand slam in the second inning before Larry Sheets and Jim Dwyer connected for grand slams in Baltimore’s nine-run fourth.

1988 — Rich Gossage registered his 300th career save, and the Chicago Cubs beat the Philadelphia Phillies 7-4.

1999 — Tony Gwynn went 4-for-5, singling in his first at-bat to become the 22nd major leaguer to reach 3,000 hits, as the San Diego Padres beat the Montreal Expos 12-10.

2001 — Boston’s Scott Hatteberg performed the ultimate baseball opposite.

Hatteberg hit a grand slam one at-bat after lining into a triple play as the Red Sox defeated the Texas Rangers 10-7. Hatteberg lined into a triple play in the fourth inning and in the sixth he hit his second career grand slam to move Boston ahead for good.

2002 — At 32, Robb Nen became the youngest player to record 300 saves, as San Francisco beat the Chicago Cubs 11-10.

Nen became the 16th member of the 300save club.

2007 — St. Louis tied a major league record with 10 straight hits in a 10-run fifth inning, with pitcher Braden Looper and Aaron Miles getting two apiece in a 10-5 victory over San Diego.

LIVING

T H E A D V O C AT E.C O M

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T h u r s d ay, au g u s T 6, 2026

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Glazed swordfish, salad pair for summer perfection

BY LINDA GASSENHEIMER Tribune News Service (TNS)

Here’s a simple yet flavorful three-ingredient main course that goes from oven to table in just 10 minutes. Simply stir together the sauce, spread it over a swordfish fillet and bake until perfectly cooked.

Paired with a crunchy, refreshing summer vegetable salad, this quick and satisfying meal is ideal for a warm evening. Fresh, light and full of flavor, it’s a complete dinner that comes together in minutes.

PHOTOS By LIZ FAUL

Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya TNS PHOTO By LINDA GASSENHEIMER

Glazed Swordfish with Crunchy Zucchini Salad

Glazed Swordfish Yields 2 servings. Recipe is by Linda Gassenheimer.

6 tablespoons Dijon mustard 4 tablespoons orange marmalade ¾ pound swordfish Salt and freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons orange zest (optional garnish)

Trio of recipes stir up memories while sharing a comforting meal with family

1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. Add mustard and marmalade to a small bowl and stir to completely combine the ingredients. Set aside.

3. Line a baking tray with foil or parchment paper and add the swordfish. Sprinkle both sides of the fish with salt and pepper to taste. Spread the mustard sauce on top of the swordfish.

4. When the oven reaches 350 F, place the baking tray on the middle shelf and bake 10 minutes. A meat thermometer should read 123 F. 5. Divide in half and place on two dinner plates. Sprinkle the orange zest on top.

NUTRITION INFO PER SERVING: 343 calories (22 percent from fat), 8.4 g fat (2.0 g saturated, 3.6 g monounsaturated), 66 mg cholesterol, 35.5 g protein, 30.2 g carbohydrates, 2.2 g fiber, 666 mg sodium.

W

hen my oldest child went to college, he asked me to create a book of our most loved family recipes.

He said he wanted to have a way to cook all the dishes that we made the most during his childhood years. I hate to admit this, but my son graduated last spring and all of our well-worn recipe cards still sit on my desk waiting to be put in a logical format.

There is comfort that comes from the meals we Liz Faul share around our family tables. It is very nostalgic to think back on cooking and baking with my children as they grew up in our home. A compilation of favorite family meals is a wonderful gift because it provides the aromas, tastes and memories from home even when that home is only a distant memory.

This month, I picked three more recipes from “Cooking Up A Storm: Recipes Lost and Found from the Times-Picayune

ä See FAMILY, page 2D

Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya Recipe is from “Cooking Up A Storm: Recipes Lost and Found from the Times-Picayune of New Orleans,” edited by Marcelle Bienvenu and Judy Walker. about 5 minutes.

2. Add the sausage to the pot and cook it with the chicken, stirring it for 2 minutes, or until it is browned.

3. Add the onions and peppers and cook, stirring until soft and golden; this takes about 5-6 minutes.

4. Add the water, tomato paste, parsley and green onions. Stir and bring to a boil.

5. Add the rice, gently stir in the rice, cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low.

Cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the 1. Heat the oil in a heavy liquid, 15- 20 minutes. Do not pot, such as a Dutch oven. stir. Fluff the mixture with a Season the pieces generously fork before serving. with Cajun seasoning. Add 6. Optional: Garnish the the seasoned chicken pieces jambalaya with sliced green to the pot, and cook over onions, parsley and a dash of medium heat until browned, hot sauce.

2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 pound of boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-size pieces) 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning ½ pound smoked sausage (sliced into ¼ inch-thick pieces) 1½ cups chopped yellow onions 1 cup chopped bell peppers 3 cups water 1 tablespoon tomato paste 2 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley 2 tablespoons chopped green onion 1½ cups long grain rice

OTHER RECIPES l Eggplant Fritters and Tartar Sauce l Rosemary Cookies l 2D

Maybe as you walked out of the first Ice Water round, it hit you.

Maybe it was a door that opened — or one that didn’t. Maybe it wasn’t until the next year when you were on the other side of the process. It could have been a moment standing in a hallway, waiting, that you can still describe in detail years later.

We’re inviting readers who went through sorority recruitment — recently or decades ago — to tell us about it: What’s the specific moment from Rush week you still think about? And what did Rush teach you that you didn’t expect? Send your response to jan.risher@theadvocate.com by 2 p.m. Monday.

Magic of tomato shines in Roman, Southern dishes Pomodori con il Riso, Recipe 2D

PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE/ TNS PHOTO

By GRETCHEN McKAy

BY GRETCHEN McKAY

I also love to combine chopped tomatoes with garlic, olive oil, a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and thin ribbons of basil so I can If you’re like me, you can eat spoon it onto pan-fried bread vine-ripened tomatoes all day, every day, and never get tired of for bruschetta. Add a generous them. Delicious out of hand, the dusting of grated Parmesan and I could easily devour a whole juicy culinary fruit that cooks pan in minutes. treat as a vegetable adds flavor The fact tomatoes are incredto everything from salads and sauces to egg and pasta dishes. ibly nutritious only adds to their One of my favorite hot weath- magic. They’re naturally low in calories because they’re made er eats in July and August is a up of about 95% water, and boast humble tomato sandwich made with soft white bread, lots of ä See TOMATO, page 2D mayo and a sprinkle of sea salt.

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (TNS)

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Pomodori con il Riso

TODAY IN HISTORY

By The Associated Press Today is Thursday, Aug. 6, the 218th day of 2026. There are 147 days left in the year.

Today in history: On Aug. 6, 1945, during World War II, the U.S. B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan, resulting in an estimated 140,000 deaths.

Also on this date: In 1806, Emperor Francis II abdicated, marking the end of the Holy Roman Empire after nearly a thousand years.

In 1942, Queen Wilhemina of the Netherlands became the first reigning queen to

address a joint session of Congress, telling lawmakers that despite Nazi occupation, her people’s motto remained, “No surrender.”

In 1962, Jamaica gained independence from the United Kingdom after 300 years of British rule.

In 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Voting Rights Act, prohibiting racial discrimination in voting.

In 1991, the World Wide Web made its public debut as a means of accessing webpages over the internet.

In 2025, a U.S. Army sergeant shot and wounded five fellow soldiers at Fort Stewart in Georgia before being tackled by other

troops. Quornelius Radford was later sentenced to life in military prison with the possibility of parole after being convicted of attempted murder at a courtmartial.

Today’s birthdays: Actor-director Peter Bonerz is 88. Actor Dorian Harewood is 76.

Actor Leland Orser is 66.

Actor Michelle Yeoh is 65.

Basketball Hall of Famer David Robinson is 61. Movie writer-director M. Night Shyamalan is 56. Singer Geri Halliwell Horner is 54.

Actor Vera Farmiga is 53.

Actor Soleil Moon Frye is 50. Actor Leslie Odom Jr. is 45. Actor Ty Simpkins is 25.

Singer Nessa Barrett is 24.

Crunchy Zucchini Salad

Serves 6. You need to turn on the oven for this dish from a forthcoming book, “Rome: Classic Recipes from the Eternal City” by Lucia Tersigni and Audrey Cosson (Michael Beazley, $33). But the upside is the finished dish doesn’t have to be eaten hot; it’s just as tasty cold, making it the perfect dish for a quick summer lunch.

3. Wash and dry tomatoes.

Slice off the top one-third of the tomato and set aside the caps. Scoop out the flesh inside with a spoon, making sure not to split the skins.

4. Put the pulp in a sieve to drain off the juice, then place the pulp (without juice) in a food processor with 2 tablespoons oil.

(I picked out most of the seeds.)

5. Add garlic, basil and 1. Preheat oven to 350 F. oregano and season liber2. Line a baking dish with ally with salt and pepper. parchment that has been Blend until smooth, then dampened and any excess remove to a bowl. water shaken off. (I put the 6. Add rice to the tomato tomatoes directly into the puree and mix well. Refrigpan.) erate for around 1 hour to

12 ripe tomatoes 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided 1 garlic clove, roughly chopped Leaves from 1 small bunch of basil Pinch of dried oregano or 1 fresh oregano sprig 12 tablespoons long-grain or basmati rice Salt and freshly ground black pepper Grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

allow the rice to soak up the flavor. (Don’t skip this step or the rice will be hard and separate from the pulp.)

7. Once the rice filling is ready, stuff the tomatoes with the mixture. Replace the tops of the tomatoes and arrange in the pan.

8. Drizzle the tomatoes with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then cover with foil.

9. Bake in preheated oven for 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for another 30 minutes, or until tomatoes are tender and jammy.

10. Allow to cool slightly and serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Yields 2 servings. Recipe is by Linda Gassenheimer.

1 cup zucchini cubes (about ½ inch each) 1 cup cherry tomatoes ½ cup cucumber cubes (about ½ inch each) ½ cup yellow bell pepper cubes (about

½ inch each) 1 cup canned, rinsed and drained reduced-salt cannellini beans 3 tablespoons reduced-fat vinaigrette dressing 2 cups washed, ready-to-eat arugula

1. Add the zucchini, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, yellow bell pepper cubes and cannellini beans to a small bowl.

2. Add the vinaigrette dressing and toss well.

3. Divide the arugula in half and place on two dinner plates. Spoon the zucchini mixture over the arugula.

NUTRITION INFO PER SERVING: 2.5 calories (11 percent from fat), 2.5 g fat (0.4 g saturated, 0.6 g monounsaturated), 1 mg cholesterol, 12.1 g protein, 36.3 g carbohydrates, 9.0 g fiber, 25 mg sodium.

PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE/TNS PHOTO By GRETCHEN McKAy

Tomato Cracker Salad PHOTO By LIZ FAUL

Eggplant Fritters and Tartar Sauce

Eggplant Fritters

Tartar Sauce

Makes about 6 servings. Recipe is from the cookbook “Cooking Up A Storm: Recipes Lost and Found from the Times-Picayune of New Orleans,” edited by Marcelle Bienvenu and Judy Walker.

Recipe is from the cookbook “Cooking Up A Storm: Recipes Lost and Found from the Times-Picayune of New Orleans,” edited by Marcelle Bienvenu and Judy Walker.

1 pound eggplant, peeled and cubed 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ cup all-purpose flour ½ teaspoon sugar 1 ⁄8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Pinch of cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon salt Vegetable oil for frying OPTIONAL ADDITION: Sliced ripe summer tomato to serve with the fritters.

1. For the sauce: In a bowl, add the mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, chopped onion, lemon juice, hot sauce and Creole seasoning and mix together until combined into a smooth sauce. Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed.

2. For the fritters: In a heavy pan, over medium heat, add the cubed eggplant and just enough wa-

½ cup of mayonnaise 1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish ½ teaspoon finely chopped onion 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice 2 dashes hot sauce Creole seasoning to taste

ter (about 1⁄8 cup) to keep the eggplant from sticking to the bottom. Stir the eggplant, and cook until it is tender. Once the eggplant is soft, remove it from the heat, mash well with a fork and let it cool.

3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggplant, baking powder, flour, sugar, nutmeg, cayenne pepper and

salt. Mix well.

4. Heat about 4 inches of oil in a deep, heavy pot or electric fryer to about 360 F. Using a tablespoon measuring spoon, drop the eggplant mixture into the hot oil and fry until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per batch.

Drain on paper towels. You can season the fritters with more salt if you wish.

Rosemary Cookies Makes 12-15 cookies. Recipe is by Mary Youngblood Cooper, from “Cooking Up A Storm: Recipes Lost and Found from the Times-Picayune of New Orleans,” edited by Marcelle Bienvenu and Judy Walker. ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature 1 cup all-purpose unbleached flour ½ cup confectioners sugar 2 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary leaves Squeeze of fresh lemon juice (optional) About 2 teaspoons granulated sugar

FAMILY

Continued from page 1D of New Orleans” that I could serve together as one meal with a range of tastes and textures. First, I made eggplant fritters that had crispy edges and tender centers. Also, because I had a perfectly ripe farmers market tomato on my kitchen counter, I sliced it thin and served it under the eggplant fritters and topped each fritter with a dollop of tartar sauce.

Next, I made the chicken and sausage jambalaya.

This one-dish Louisiana classic is a favorite meal

1. Preheat the oven to 350 F. 2. In a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer, beat together the butter, flour, confectioners sugar, rosemary and lemon juice.

3. Spoon the dough by the teaspoons onto an ungreased cookie sheet, about 1½ inch-

es apart. Press the dough flat with a cookie stamp or the bottom of a small drinking glass dipped in granulated sugar.

4. Bake the cookies until light brown around the edges, about 10 minutes. Cool on a wire rack and store in an airtight container.

to serve to a crowd. My husband often says, “Jambalaya is the perfect meal.”

My daughter recently requested that we make jambalaya for her graduation party. The chicken and sausage recipe in “Cooking Up A Storm” was easier than the version that I usually make and it tastes just as good.

There are many ways to make jambalaya. The key is to find the right balance between rice, fluid and flavor. This recipe worked great. I garnished it with green onions and a dash of hot sauce for extra texture and spice. I served it with sweet slices of summer cantaloupe. The sweet and

salty combination is a winning one.

Finally, I made the rosemary cookies. When I read that this is one of “the most requested cookie recipes since it was published in The Times-Picayune in September 2000,” I wanted to try it myself. Like Mary Youngblood Cooper, who contributed the recipe, I have always enjoyed adding fresh herbs to almost every dish. The savory, peppery rosemary works perfectly with a squeeze of lemon in these classic butter cookies. I have only made these cookies twice, but they are already a favorite that I will add to our family cookbook.

Serves 4-6. Some takes on tomato cracker salad call for dicing the tomatoes and combining them with mayonnaise and crackers for one homogenous bite. This old-school recipe from Southern Living builds a salad with sliced tomatoes on top of seasoned mayo. However you make it, it’s essential to eat the salad right away, while the crackers are still crunchy. Raw sweet corn adds a crisp and juicy finish.

12 saltine crackers 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted 1 teaspoon garlic salt, divided 1½ cups mayonnaise 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar 2½ pounds heirloom or other peak summer tomatoes (assorted sizes and colors), sliced Black pepper ¾ cup fresh corn kernels (1 ear) 2 tablespoons small fresh basil leaves

TOMATO

Continued from page 1D a meaningful amount of vitamin C plus lycopene, a plant compound prized for its antioxidant properties.

Below we dish up two recipes in which tomatoes take center stage. The first is a crunchy, deconstructed take on a tomato sandwich.

Made with just a handful of

1. Preheat oven to 375 F. 2. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and place crackers in a single layer on the sheet.

3. Brush tops of crackers liberally with melted butter and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of garlic salt.

Bake until golden brown and fragrant, 8-10 minutes.

Cool completely, about 20 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, stir together mayonnaise,

chives, apple cider vinegar and remaining ½ teaspoon garlic salt in a small bowl.

5. Spread mayonnaise mixture evenly on a large platter. Arrange tomato slices on top of mayonnaise mixture, overlapping slightly.

6. Season tomatoes with pepper to taste and sprinkle with corn. Coarsely crush crackers over salad; sprinkle with basil.

pantry ingredients, tomato cracker salad is a summer classic in the South.

The second is an Italian dish from a forthcoming cookbook featuring authentic recipes from Rome.

Pomodori con il riso is usually made with risotto-style rice that is par-cooked in the tomato pulp just long enough to get rid of its raw, hard bite, but this version made with basmati opts for simply

soaking the rice in the pulp for about an hour in the fridge to soften it. I added a generous dusting of Parmesan before serving.

For a more substantial meal, add a few chopped potatoes that have been tossed in oil and chopped fresh rosemary to the pan. Just make sure it’s a small dice so they cook at the same rate as the tomatoes. The recipe can easily be halved for smaller appetites.

YEARS

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FrAnK And erneSt

roSebUdS

zItS

zodIAC LEo (July 23-Aug. 22) Balance is what's important, and learning and living life happily requires equality and the ability to live up to your expectations, not what others want from you. Be brave.

VIRGo (Aug. 23-sept. 22) Plans to look and feel your best will be met with people who have their own ideas of how you should proceed. Don't trust those who paint a pretty picture with no rhyme or reason behind their promises.

LIBRA (sept. 23-oct. 23) Ditch replaying things in your head; move on. It's time to cut your losses and to make your way in a direction you truly believe in. Entertain the thought of immersing yourself in something that fascinates you. scoRPIo (oct. 24-nov. 22) Reduce, simplify, declutter and free your body, mind and soul of all that torments you.

Your energy needs to be strategically aimed at a purpose or what matters to you. Dig deep. sAGIttARIUs (nov. 23-Dec. 21) Throw your energy in a direction that lightens your heart, fills your home with happiness and allows you to let your creative spirit take over. Love looms. cAPRIcoRn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Speak on behalf of those who can't. Wrap your mind around how and what to enforce to make a difference in how you live, think and move forward. Don't wait until it's too little, too late.

AQUARIUs (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Get the facts before you act. Overthinking or overdoing will lead to mistakes. Put your emotions and ego aside and do what's

best for everyone, and you'll fulfill your desire to make peace with yourself and those you care about.

PIscEs (Feb. 20-March 20) Trust your instincts. Take your time and use your intelligence to sort through your options and consider the consequences. Time has a way of healing what is meant as a lesson.

ARIEs (March 21-April 19) Take a deep dive into your creative psyche and see what transpires. Reinventing yourself or trying something new will inspire you to be good to yourself and make a difference. tAURUs (April 20-May 20) Make your space comfortable and convenient. An opportunity to bring in extra cash from a home-based business doing something you enjoy will be uplifting and help with confidence and personal growth.

GEMInI (May 21-June 20) If you don't like something, change it. Look over your personal preferences and put a to-do list together. Take control of your life, and put what you need to reach your goal in place. cAncER (June 21-July 22) Gravitate toward those who are transparent.

Take a unique approach to producing authentic answers to solutions. Specialize in being yourself and offering others your very best.

The horoscope, an entertainment feature, is not based on scientific fact. © 2026 by NEA, Inc., dist. By Andrews McMeel Syndication

For better or For WorSe WonderWord

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beetLe bAILeY CeLebrItY CIpher Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

toDAy's cLUE: Z EQUALs y

Mother GooSe And GrIMM

SherMAn’S LAGoon FAMILY CIrCUS

dooneSbUrY

4D ■ Thursday,August 6, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

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Sudoku InstructIons: Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers.

The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once. The difficulty level of the Sudoku increases from Monday to Sunday.

Yesterday’s Puzzle Answer

BaBY BLueS

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The Advocate ■ theadvocate.com ■ Thursday,August 6, 2026 ■ 5D

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B.C.

Bridge

By PHILLIP ALDER We have been looking at declarer’s plan in no-trump when he has only one stopper in the suit led at trick one. But how does his strategy change when he has two stoppers in that suit?

It depends upon the number of opposing high cards declarer has to drive out before running for home. If he will lose the lead only once, he should take the first trick, give the opponents the trick they are due, and claim. However, if he has two losers to drive out, usually it is right to duck (lose) trick one.

In this example deal, West leads the spade four against three no-trump and East puts up his jack. How should South plan the play?

South starts with only five top tricks: two spades and three diamonds. He can get three winners from clubs, so also needs a heart trick. He has to concede tricks to both rounded-suit aces. The rule recommends ducking the first trick.

Let’s assume East returns his second spade. South wins and plays on clubs.

East takes his ace, but doesn’t have another spade to lead (and if he did, the suit would be 4-3).

Note that if South takes the first trick and leads a club, East wins and returns his second spade, establishing West’s suit while West still has an entry in the heart ace. Or, if South plays a high heart at trick two, West wins with his ace

garfield

Pearls Before swiNe

hagar the horriBle

and East drops the jack, the top of his sequence when he cannot win the trick.

Then West should lead his second heart, which would defeat the contract.

Finally, yes, if East, when given the first trick, shifts to his heart jack at trick two, South has to guess to play low, which is not clear-cut. © 2026 by NEA, Inc., dist. By Andrews McMeel Syndication

wuzzles Each Wuzzle is a word riddle which creates a disguised word, phrase, name, place, saying, etc. For example: NOON GOOD = GOOD AFTERNOON

PiCKles

Previous answers:

mallard fillmore

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 — LEsIons: LEE-zhuns: Injuries; harm.

Bizarro

marmaduKe

Average mark 19 words Time limit 30 minutes Can you find 25 or more words in LESIONS? yEstERDAy’s WoRD — IMPRoBIty import pity port prim primo probity prom riot romp ropy roti

obit omit orbit brim brio brit tomb topi torii trim trio

trip tromp troy typo tyro

loCKhorNs hidato Yesterday’s Puzzle Answer

today’s thought “When I thought to know this, it was too painful for me; Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end.”

Psalms 73:16-17 Going to God’s House can help see things as they really are. Be in church this Sunday.

— G.E. Dean

6D ■ Thursday,August 6, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

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Public Notices

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

PUBLIC NOTICE --ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS PROJECT NAME: PAVE‐ MENT SEALCOAT PHASE II - CONSTRUCTION OWNER: ALLEN PARISH POLICE JURY LOCATION: ALLEN PARISH AIRPORT (ACP) STATEMENT OF WORK: This project is the seal‐ coating and remarking of the asphaltic pavement at the Allen Parish Air‐ port. The Base Bid is the Runway Sealcoating while the Additive Bid No. 1 is the Parallel Taxi‐ way Sealcoat, and the Additive Bid No. 2 is the Terminal Apron Sealcoat‐ ing. The project requires marking removal, pave‐ ment crack sealing, pavement sealcoat appli‐ cation, and pavement marking application PROJECT DURATION: 60 Calendar Days PRE-BID MEETING: NonMandatory Pre-Bid Meet‐ ing will be held on 11:00 AM CST on Tuesday, 08/11/2026, at the ALLEN PARISH AIRPORT (ACP) located at 275 AIRPORT ROAD, OAKLDALE, LA 71463.

BID SUBMITTAL: Sealed Bids shall be addressed to the ALLEN PARISH PO‐ LICE JURY and delivered to the 602 Court Street, Oberlin, LA 70655 not later than 2:00 pm CST on Tuesday, 8/25/2026. Any bid received after the specified time and date will not be considered.

BID OPENING: Sealed Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud at 2:00 p.m. CST on Tues‐ day, 8/25/2026. Bid Re‐ sults will also be posted to the official bidding portal at www. civcastusa.com..

BID DOCUMENTS: Bid Documents, Specifica‐ tions, and Plans may be www. obtained at civcastusa.com.

NOTICE TO PLAN ROOMS AND PROSPECTIVE BID‐ DERS: Plan rooms and other third-party ser‐ vices are requested to in‐ clude the following no‐ tice with any distribution of this Advertisement or Bidding Documents: The official Bidding Docu‐ ments, Plan Holders List, and all Addenda are available only through CivCastUSA.com.

Prospective bidders should register through the official website to en‐ sure receipt of all ad‐ denda and other bidding communications.

The Owner and Engineer as‐ sume no responsibility for the completeness or accuracy of documents obtained from sources other than the official website.

REQUIRED LICENSE: Con‐ tractors submitting bids shall be licensed under LA R.S. 37:2150-2164, LOUISIANA HIGHWAY, STREET AND BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION. Or HEAVY CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGER: In‐ frastructure Consulting and Engineering, LLC 4000 South Sherwood Forest Blvd., Suite 301 Baton Rouge, LA 70816.

The project manager is: Ken Morales, P.E. and can be contacted via email at: ken.morales@ice-eng. com (225-328-7419) OWNERS RIGHT: The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all bids for just cause; such ac‐ tions will be in accor‐ dance with Title 38 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes.

FUNDING NOTICE: Notice is hereby given that Fed‐ eral and State grant funds may not be avail‐ able at the time of bid‐ ding. Award of the Con‐ tract is contingent upon obtaining Federal and State grant funding as stipulated in LA. R.S. 38:2215(D) BID SECURITY: Each bid shall be accom‐ panied by bid security in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid amount, further specified in the Contract Documents..

BID SECURITY: Each bid shall be accompanied by bid security in an l h fi

Public Notices Bids/Proposals y amount not less than five percent (5%) of the total bid amount, as specified in the Contract Docu‐ ments.

BID WITHDRAWAL: No bidder may withdraw his/her bid within fortyfive (45) days after the actual date of the open‐ ing thereof, except as provided under LA. R.S. 38:2214.

PUBLICATION: ALLEN PARISH POLICE JURY BY: /s/ TONY HEBERT, PRESI‐ DENT - The Advocate and Kinder Courier News: 7/30/2026, 8/6/2026, 8/13/2026 195766-jul 30-aug 6-13-3t $1,256.91 PUBLIC NOTICE --INVITATION TO BID Sealed bids for construc‐ tion of the following pro‐ ject will be received by the City of Bastrop, (hereinafter referred to as “Owner”). Bids will be received by the Owner, until 10:00 AM (local time) on August 31, 2026 at which time all bids re‐ ceived will be publicly opened and read aloud at the office located at 202 East Jefferson, Bas‐ trop, LA 71220.

No bids will be received after the above time and date.

STATE PROJECT NO. H. XXXXXX Morehouse Memorial Airport, More‐ house Parish.

Morehouse Memorial Air‐ port – Drainage Improve‐ ments & Utility Reloca‐ tion $335,000.00 PROPOSAL GUARANTY: Five Percent (5%) of Base Bid Amount.

PROJECT ENGINEER: Volk‐ ert, Inc., 114 Venable Lane, Monroe, Louisiana 71203, Telephone (318) 388-1422, Project Man‐ ager – Clinton C. Patrick, P.E., P.L.S. PRE BID CONFERENCE: To be held on August 19,2026 @ 10:00 at City of Bastrop meeting room, 202 East Jefferson, Bas‐ trop, LA 71220. This con‐ ference is not manda‐ tory.

CONTRACT DOCUMENTS: Upon deposit of $100.00 for each set or request a link for an electronic set of plans and specs in PDF format.

Bids must be submitted on forms provided, must be prepared in accor‐ dance with the "Project Specifications" and must include all information required by the bid form.

Failure to comply with these requirements will result in rejection of the bids.

Contract Docu‐ ments will not be issued later than 24 hours prior to the hour and date set for opening bids.

Written requests for plans and bid forms should be sent to Volkert, Inc., 114 Venable Lane, Monroe, Louisiana 71203 to the attention of Chris W. Patrick.

Drawings, specifications and contract documents were prepared by Volk‐ ert, Inc., 114 Venable Lane, Monroe, Louisiana 71203. The bid package may be examined in the office of Volkert, Inc., 114 Venable Lane, Monroe, Louisiana 71203.

All Prime Bidders MUST obtain copies of Bidding Documents from Volkert, Inc., located at 114 Ven‐ able Lane, Monroe, Louisiana, upon receipt of a $100 deposit for each set of paper documents or request a link for an electronic set of plans and specs in PDF format.

Prime Bidder is defined as licensed “Heavy Con‐ struction” Contractors bidding this job as such.

Deposits on the first set of documents furnished bona fide prime bidders shall be fully refunded upon return of the docu‐ ments no later than ten days after receipt of bids. On other sets of documents furnished to bidders, the deposit less the actual cost of repro‐ duction, shall be re‐

Merchandise APPLIANCES Side by Side stainless steel Whirlpool Refrigerator, like new.

36"X 69". $500. Call 225-205-3316.

Greenoaks Cemetary Plots 3 cemetary plots for sale at Greenoaks in Baton Rouge.

Section 17, block 177, the plots 1,3.6 for sale 2500.00 each. regular 6500.00 each. call 479-2642482 cell or home 870-294-0002. quiltingbydarlene@gmail.com

ESTATE SALE PRESERVE AT HARVESTON ESTATE SALE 10746 TURNING LEAF DR. Thurs 2-7pm, Fri, Sat, Sun 8-5

Baton Rouge Real Estate For Sale RETIREMENT COMMUNITY Village Woods Independent Condo Living 2 BRS, 2 BA, available ranging from $142,900 to $209,900 225-718-3025 www.jarreaurealty.com

Notice of Requirement for Affirmative Action to Ensure Equal Employ‐ ment Opportunity: 1. The Offeror’s or Bid‐ der’s attention is called to the “Equal Opportu‐ nity Clause” and the “Standard Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Construction Contract Specifications” set forth herein.

2. The goals and timeta‐ bles for minority and fe‐ male participation, ex‐ pressed in percentage terms for the Contrac‐ tor’s aggregate work‐ force in each trade on all construction work in the covered area, are as fol‐ lows: Timetables Goals for minority partic‐ ipation for each trade: 6.5% These goals are applica‐ ble to all of the Contrac‐ tor’s construction work (whether or not it is Fed‐ eral or federally as‐ sisted) performed in the covered area. If the Con‐

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Pets / Pet Services Directory PETS • SUPPLIES • SERVICES • OBITUARIES • LOST & FOUND

TEACUP POODLES MALTIPOOS POMS YORKIES Miniature and Toy Goldendoodles UTD. S/W Please Call 504-259-2222

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Morkie Yorkie MalShih Pups CKC UTD vac/wormed ready for new home. $800.00 337-517-8982 tgbonvillain1@gmail.com

The Contractor’s compli‐ ance with the Executive Order and the regula‐ tions in 41 CFR Part 60-4 shall be based on its im‐ plementation of the Equal Opportunity Clause, specific affirma‐ tive action obligations required by the specifi‐ cations set forth in 41 CFR 60-4.3(a) and its ef‐ forts to meet the goals.

The hours of minority and female employment and training must be substantially uniform throughout the length of the contract, and in each trade, and the Contractor shall make a good faith effort to employ minori‐ ties and women evenly on each of its projects.

The transfer of minority or female employees or trainees from Contractor to Contractor or from project to project for the sole purpose of meeting the Contractor’s goals shall be a violation of the contract, the Executive Order and the regula‐ tions in 41 CFR Part 60-4.

Compliance with the goals will be measured against the total work hours performed.

3. The Contractor shall provide written notifica‐ tion to the Director of the Office of Federal Con‐ tract Compliance Pro‐ grams (OFCCP) within 10 working days of award of any construction sub‐ contract in excess of $10,000 at any tier for construction work under the contract resulting from this solicitation.

The notification shall list the name, address, and telephone number of the subcontractor; employer identification number of the subcontractor; esti‐ mated dollar amount of the subcontract; esti‐ mated starting and com‐ pletion dates of the sub‐ contract; and the geo‐ graphical area in which the subcontract is to be performed.

4. As used in this notice and in the contract re‐ sulting from this solicita‐ tion, the “covered area” is City of Bastrop, Louisiana, Morehouse Parish.

Title VI Solicitation Notice: The City of Bastrop, in accordance with the pro‐ visions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (78 Stat. 252, 42 USC §§ 2000d to 2000d-4) and the Regulations, hereby noti‐ fies all bidders or offer‐ ors that it will affirma‐ tively ensure that any contract entered into pursuant to this adver‐ tisement, [select disad‐ vantaged business enter‐ prises or airport conces‐ sion disadvantaged busi‐ ness enterprises] will be afforded full and fair op‐ portunity to submit bids in response to this invita‐ tion and will not be dis‐ criminated against on the grounds of race, color, or national origin in consideration for an award.

Successful Bidders are required to submit to the Owner, the following documents within 10 days of bid opening: Statement of Bidder’s Qualifications Certification of Bidder Regarding EEO Demonstration of Good Faith Efforts Letter of Intent - DBD Bidders Assurance of DBE Participation DBE Good Faith Effort Documentation Attestations Affidavit Non Collusion Declaration Bidders are notified that the award of the contract shall be by the Owner and that construction administration and in‐ spection will be per‐ i f d b h

Reporting you can trust on stories that matter

CKC Labradoodle F1B Puppies Chocolate, Blue Merle, Black, puppies 1st shots, hand raised, available August 6th $1,200.00 504231-9118 ben1.comer@gmail.com

tractor performs con‐ struction work in a geo‐ graphical area located outside of the covered area, it shall apply the goals established for such geographical area where the work is actu‐ ally performed. With re‐ gard to this second area, the Contractor also is subject to the goals for both its federally in‐ volved and non-federally involved construction.

The Contractor agrees to comply with 49 USC § 50101, which provides that Federal funds may not be obligated unless all steel and manufac‐ tured goods used in AIP funded projects are pro‐ duced in the United States, unless the Fed‐ eral Aviation Administra‐ tion has issued a waiver for the product; the prod‐ uct is listed as an Ex‐ cepted Article, Material Or Supply in Federal Ac‐ quisition Regulation sub‐ part 25.108; or is included in the FAA Nationwide Buy American Waivers Is‐ sued list.

MOBILE HOME 1, 2 & 3 BR mobile homes, $675 & up 6061 Plank Rd. CALL 225-978-4653

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY Selling Business only not building.

Don't have enough workers to run.

Has great potential in Reeve's shopping center. Has all equipment needed to boil crawfish, fry seafood plates amongst other foods with warmer in front. Asking price 50k negotiable and rent is needed to negotiate with landlord.

Call or Text Steve 225-341-9235

funded upon return of the documents no later than ten days after re‐ ceipt of bids.

Federal Requirements: This project is federally funded and federal provi‐ sions and requirements apply. Federal provisions made part of, but not limited to this contract include: Buy American Preference, Foreign Trade Restriction, Davis Bacon, Affirmative Action, Gov‐ ernmentwide Debarment and Suspension, Govern‐ mentwide Requirements for Drug-free Workplace.

APARTMENT AREA 5 1BR $600, 2BR $700 Tigerland. $500 Deposit. 225-475-1737

GARAGE SALE PRESERVE AT HARVESTON ESTATE SALE 10746 TURNING LEAF DR. Thurs 2-7pm, Fri, Sat, Sun 8-5

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

The successful Bidder to whom the contract is awarded will be required to furnish a performance and payment bond ac‐ ceptable to the City of Bastrop, in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the contract in conformity with the Con‐ tract Documents. The contractor for the con‐ tract shall purchase and maintain such insurance as will protect him/board from claims which may arise out of, or result from the contractor's ex‐ ecution of the work, whether such execution be by himself or by any subcontractor or by any‐ one directly or indirectly employed by any of them or by anyone from whose acts any of them may be liable.

3017 Chippewa St. 3BR 1BA Rent $800/mo $300/dep 225-357-6436

ROOMS FOR RENT Furnished Rooms. $125/wk. $500/mo.

225-933-7560

Garage Sales

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

By submitting a bid/pro‐ posal under this solicita‐ tion, the bidder or offeror certifies that neither it nor its principals are presently debarred or suspended by any Fed‐ eral department or agency from participa‐ tion in this transaction.

AREA 3

PLACE YOUR PET SERVICES INFORMATION IN THE PET SERVICES DIRECTORY TODAY! • IT IS FAST AND EASY! • CALL 225-383-0111

225-388-0111

The bidder must com‐ plete the Past Criminal Convictions of Bidders (Attestations) form. The bidder must also provide an affidavit attesting that public contract was not secured through em‐ ployment or payment of solicitor (see Non Collu‐ sion Declaration) form.

APARTMENT 3060 N. Acadian Thrwy (Wtr/Swr Pd) 1BR/1BA, Rent $500, Dep $100 225-357-6436

All Metal Welded Bird Cage depth 18" x 24" width 27" tall overall height 54" all black original cost over 1,000. dollars $500.00 hank722@yahoo.com cage can seperate from base

Looking for the right hire?

Each proposal shall be accompanied by Bid Bond, a Cashier's Check or Certified Check in the amount not less than that specified above and shall be made payable to the City of Bastrop, with‐ out conditions. This shall be given as a guarantee that the Bidder will exe‐ cute the Contract, if it be awarded to him, in con‐ formity with the contract documents.

Baton Rouge Rental

APARTMENTS 655 North St Subsidized Efficiency Apartments cpabr.org 225-383-5551 TDD/TTY 711 RELAY

Public Notices Bids/Proposals p p formed by the Engineer and final acceptance will be made by the Owner upon recommendation of the Engineers and sub‐ ject to approval by the FAA. Liquidated damages for delay will be in the amount of five hundred dollars ($500.00) per day for delays other than those caused by adverse weather conditions, acts of God, acts of delay caused by scheduling of operation by the Engi‐ neer or the Owner ad‐ verse to the interest of the contractor.

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Public Notices Bids/Proposals

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

Bids must be submitted on the Standard Form of Proposal included herein and the successful bid‐ der will be required to execute the Owner's Standard Form of Con‐ tract for Construction, together with the perfor‐ mance bond and pay‐ ment bond, within ten (10) days after formal award of the contract. No bids may be withdrawn for a period of forty five (45) days after the time schedule for the opening of bids.

right to reject any or all bids for just cause.

y drawn after the sched‐ uled time for opening of bids.

August 6, 2026, August 18, 2027, August 20, 2026 and August 27, 2026

The Owner reserves the

The contractor shall dis‐ play his Contractor's Li‐ cense Number promi‐ nently on the outside of the envelope.

At the time and place stipulated, all proposals on hand will be opened and read aloud.

/s/_________________ Honorable Mark Moore, Sr., Mayor City of Bastrop

196487 Aug. 6, 18, 20, 27, 2026 4t $716.48 PUBLIC NOTICE ---

PUBLISHED:

Any proposal received after the specified day and hour will be returned unopened.

Ouachita Citizen – Au‐ gust 6, 2026, August 18, 2026, August 20, 2026 and August 27, 2026

No bids, after being sub‐ mitted, may be with‐ d f h h d

Baton Rouge Advocate –

NOTICE TO BIDDERS SP# 143 Sealed bids will be re‐ ceived by the Procure‐ ment Section of the Divi‐ sion of Administration, 1201 N. 3rd. St., 2nd.

Floor, Suite 2-160, Baton

Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy COASTAL USE PERMITS NOT REQUIRED OF ACTIVITIES EXEMPT FROM PERMITTING AND/OR CORPS AREA OR GENERAL PERMIT NAME EXTEX OPERATING COMPANY CRESCENT LOUISIANA MIDSTREAM, LLC ANNY, RANDY LEVEL 3 COMMUNICATIONS, LLC SOUTH LAFOURCHE LEVEE DISTRICT LEGER, PATRICK ST. TAMMANY PARISH GOVERNMENT GENESIS RAIL SERVICES, LLC CITY OF NEW ORLEANS - OFFICE OF RESILIENCE AND SUSTAINABILITY LALUMINA LLC - BURNSIDE ALUMINA PLANT COASTAL PROTECTION AND RESTORATION AUTHORITY TURN SERVICES, LLC ENTERGY LOUISIANA LLC CPRA CITY OF SLIDELL ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT COASTAL PROTECTION AND RESTORATION AUTHORITY

PARISH TERREBONNE LAFOURCHE ST. JAMES ORLEANS LAFOURCHE CAMERON ST. TAMMANY LAFOURCHE ORLEANS

CUPNO P20260214 P20260536 P20260555 P20260575 P20260582 P20260585 P20260596 P20260601 P20260602

ASCENSION VERMILION

P20260605 P20260607

ORLEANS LAFOURCHE LAFOURCHE ST. TAMMANY CAMERON

P20260608 P20260613 P20260615 P20260622 P20260629

COENO MVN-2026-00245-WLS MVN-2026-00485-EDM

Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy PERMITS ISSUED WITH CONDITIONS TO MINIMIZE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS NAME PARISH CUPNO VENTURE GLOBAL CP2 LNG, LLC CAMERON P20211131 CAMERON PARISH PORT HARBOR & CAMERON P20230391 TERMINAL DISTRICT ENTERGY SERVICES IBERIA P20260531 CANTIUM LAFOURCHE P20240297 LIVINGSTON PARISH GOVERNMENT LIVINGSTON P20260484 VINOT’S MARINA, LLC ORLEANS P20240417 PERDIDO ENERGY, LLC PLAQUEMINES P20260472 HILCORP ENERGY COMPANY PLAQUEMINES P20260506 TULANE UNIVERSITY ST. BERNARD P20230722 COLLINS PIPELINE COMPANY ST. BERNARD P20260606 ST. CHARLES PARISH GOVERNMENT ST. CHARLES P20221073 ENTERGY LOUISIANA, LLC ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST P20240832 SHELL PIPELINE COMPANY LP ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST P20260461 P20260215 TANGIPAHOA PARISH GOVERNMENT TANGIPAHOA P20230989 TERREBONNE LEVEE & CONSERVATION DISTRICT TERREBONNE TRICHE, DEBBIE TERREBONNE P20250458 HILCORP ENERGY COMPANY TERREBONNE P20260469 TRANSCONTINENTAL GAS PIPE LINE VERMILION P20260402 COMPANY LLC

COENO MVN-2021-00560-WKK MVN-1997-03712-WQQ MVN-2026-00451-WFF MVN-2024-00399-CW MVN-2015-02215-TREC MVN-2026-00402-WB MVN-2026-00440-MM MVN-2023-01109-ENP MVN-2022-00817-EMM MVN-2024-01028-MG MVN-2026-00333-ENP MVN-2019-00038-WPP MVN 2014 01412 BV MVN-2026-00442-WB MVN-2026-00450-WLS

Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy LOCAL CONCERN PERMIT APPLICATIONS NAME JOHNSON, KRISTOPHER NUNEZ, TREVER LANDMARK’D LLC LABOVE, FRANK BRADY BOURRIAQUE, KIM THERIOT, CHARLES GALLEGOS, GABE MCDANIEL, THOMAS FONTAINE, DARREN GILBERT, ROBBY BEDICO BUILDERS CUSTOM CRAFT HOMES INC. OASIS POOLS AND SPAS

196513-674959-Aug. 6-1t $ 181.30

PARISH CAMERON CAMERON CAMERON CAMERON CAMERON CAMERON CAMERON CAMERON PLAQUEMINES ST. CHARLES ST. TAMMANY ST. TAMMANY ST. TAMMANY

CUPNO P20260589 P20260599 P20260603 P20260617 P20260621 P20260624 P20260631 P20260640 P20260614 P20260618 P20260592 P20260633 P20260635

The Advocate ■ theadvocate.com ■ Thursday,August 6, 2026 ■ 7D

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Public Notices Bids/Proposals

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

Rouge, Louisiana, at 10:00 A.M. for the follow‐ ing: RFx No. 3000026525, *Trade In* Weapon Equipment LDWF, 8/25/26 RFx No. 3000026552, Pas‐ try Goods (Canteen Re‐ sale) – DOC – LCIW, 8/25/26 RFx No. 3000026524, Evotech BN Surveillance, 8/26 Bid proposal forms, in‐ formation and specifica‐ tions may be obtained by accessing the bid num‐ ber in LaPac at www.doa. la.gov/doa/osp/ or from the procurement section listed above. No bids will be received after the date and hour specified.

The right is reserved to reject any and all bids and to waive any infor‐ malities.

Amy Vincent Director of State Procure‐ ment FAX (225) 342-8688 196457-AUG 6-1T $14.05

PUBLIC NOTICE --NOTICE TO PROPOSERS Notice is hereby given that sealed proposals will be received by City of Baton Rouge and the Parish of East Baton Rouge until September 16, 2026 at 2:00 PM CST in Purchasing Division, Room 826 of City Hall, 222 Saint Louis Street, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70802 for: RFP 2026-07-0210 BANKING SERVICES Copies of the Request for Proposal may be ob‐ tained from LaPAC (https://wwwcfprd.doa. louisiana.gov/osp/lapac/ dspBid.cfm?search=dep artment&term=102), Central Bidding (http:// www.centralauctionh ouse.com) or by email re‐ quest to:email: 0210BankingServices@ brla.gov. *Note: The City-Parish has elected to use LaPAC, the state’s online electronic bid posting and Central Bidding noti‐ fi i i ddi

Public Notices Bids/Proposals g fication system, in addi‐ tion to its standard means of advertising this requirement. LaPAC is resident on State Pur‐ chasing’s website at https://wwwcfprd.doa. louisiana.gov/osp/lapac/ pubmain.cfm and is available for vendor selfenrollment. NOTE: This RFP is not available to submit online via Central Bidding; submissions MUST be mailed or hand delivered to the address mentioned in the RFP. In that LaPAC and Central Bidding provides an im‐ mediate email notifica‐ tion to subscribing bid‐ ders that a solicitation and any subsequent ad‐ denda have been let and posted, notice and re‐ ceipt thereof is consid‐ ered formally given as of their respective dates of posting. Though not re‐ quired if receiving solici‐ tation and addenda no‐ tices from LaPAC and Central Bidding the CityParish will email ad‐ denda to all vendors con‐ tacting our office and re‐ questing to be put on our office Vendor Listing for this solicitation.

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

The deadline for receiv‐ ing written inquiries is September 1, 2026 at 5:00 PM CST. Proposals received after the above specified time will not be considered.

The right to reject any and all proposals and to waive irregularities and informalities is reserved.

All questions concerning the Solicitation and Con‐ tract Documents MUST be received in accor‐ dance with the Schedule of Events cited in the So‐ licitation documents.

Though not required if receiving solicitation and addenda notices from LaPAC, the City of Baton Rouge, Parish of East Baton Rouge will email or mail addenda to all ven‐ dors contacting our of‐ fice and requesting to be put on our office Vendor Listing for this solicita‐ tion.

196479 Aug. 6, 13, 20, 3t $118.41

CITY OF HAMMOND, LOUISIANA The City of Hammond will open sealed Bids at 10:00 a.m. August 31, 2026, at the Purchasing Department, 310 E Charles St 2nd Fl, Ham‐ mond LA 70401, for "Air Traffic Control Tower Equipment."

The RFB for this project may be downloaded from the City’s website, www. hammond.org, or via Bid Express, www. bidexpress.com To review or obtain a hardcopy of the RFB or to submit questions, a Bid‐ der should contact Pur‐ chasing Director Jana Thurman Soileau at pur‐ chasing@hammond.org or 985-277-5633 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

ceived by the Purchasing Department by 10:00 a.m.

August 31 2026. Hard‐ copies must include the RFB Number, Bidder's Name, Bidder's Address, Bidder's Louisiana Con‐ tractor License Number, and RFB Opening Date clearly typed or printed on the outside of the Bid envelope.

Section 3 Busi‐ nesses/MBEs/WBEs/SBEs are encouraged to sub‐ mit Bids.

Any person with disabili‐ ties requiring special ac‐ commodations during Bid Opening must con‐ tact Director of Adminis‐ tration Charles Borchers IV at borchers_cw@ hammond.org or 985-2775647 at least 7 days prior.

The City reserves its right under law to reject any and all Bids for just cause. The City shall incur no obligation to any Contractor relating hi il

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196435-aug 6-13-20-3t $106.03 PUBLIC NOTICE --River Parishes Commu‐ nity College is seeking bids for a 40005-FY27-012, 2026 48 ft Dry Van Trailer – CDL Training Program (Qty 2). To obtain bid package, please visit https://wwwcfprd.doa. louisiana.gov/osp/lapac/ dspBid.cfm?search=dep artment&term=4.

The following bids are open: #4005FY27-012 195319 July 27-Aug. 10 15t $86.40

260801 Auditorium, Sta‐ dium, Field Seating, Bleachers, and Installa‐ tion Services (2 Part with JOC) 260802 Heavy Duty and Medium Duty Trucks and Trailers 260803 Heavy Duty and Medium Duty Truck and Trailer Parts and Services 260804 Medical Equip‐ ment, Supplies, and Ser‐ vices 260805 Academic and Ed‐ ucational Goods and Ser‐ vices 260806 Holiday and Spe‐ cial Event Lighting The proposal is due and will be opened on Sep‐ tember 18th, 2026, at 3:00 pm local time. Call 866839-8477 for problems with website or ques‐ tions.

195763-aug 6-13-2t $224.90

PUBLIC NOTICE --The Interlocal Purchas‐ ing System (TIPS) has posted procurement so‐ licitations at www.tipsusa.com for the following categories:

Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE --[Media and Substitute Notice] Eyemart Express Provides Notice of Data Event

Farmers Branch, Texas – July 31, 2026 – Eyemart Express, LLC (“Eyemart”) hereby provides notice about a cybersecurity event that involved cer‐ tain individuals’ personal data.

Eyemart, a nationwide provider of retail optical and optometric services, learned on February 13, 2026 about unauthorized access to its systems on February 12, 2026. Eye‐ mart was able to contain the incident and secure its systems that same day. In addition, Eyemart immediately launched an investigation to deter‐ mine the nature and scope of the incident.

The data involved varies based on a given individ‐ ual’s relationship with Eyemart. For certain Eye‐ mart customers, their i i i

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y g to this RFB until a Con‐ tract between the City and the Contractor is fully executed.

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

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To advertise here, please call 225-383-0111 or visit us at servicedirectory.theadvocate.com

8D ■ Thursday,August 6, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate Legal Notices

Legal Notices

mart customers, their name, vision insurance information, date of birth and/or eyeglass pur‐ chase or prescription were involved. Eyemart has mailed notification letters to such cus‐ tomers except when it could not determine an address for them. For other affected individu‐ als, name, address, So‐ cial Security number, date of birth, eyeglass prescription, health plan and/or other information was involved (as more particularly described in Eyemart’s notification letters to such individu‐ als). If you have ques‐ tions or would like addi‐ tional information, in‐ cluding whether you are one of the above-de‐ scribed customers for which Eyemart was not able to determine an ad‐ dress, you may contact Eyemart at 800-655-4635.

As part of Eyemart’s re‐ sponse to this incident and its ongoing commit‐ ment to information se‐ curity, Eyemart contin‐ ues to review and update its training, processes, and procedures, and is working to implement measures to reduce the possibility of a similar in‐ cident in the future. Eye‐ mart is also cooperating with federal law enforce‐ ment. For individuals whose Social Security number was involved, Eyemart is providing credit complimentary monitoring (as explained in Eyemart’s notification letters to such individu‐ als).

Eyemart encourages all individuals to remain vig‐ ilant as to potential inci‐ dents of identity theft and fraud by reviewing account statements and periodically reviewing their credit report. Indi‐ viduals may obtain a free copy of their credit re‐ port by calling 1-877-3228228 or by visiting www. annualcreditreport.com and following instruc‐ tions for submission of requests. Relevant con‐ tact information for the national credit reporting agencies is as follows: Equifax, PO Box 740241, Atlanta, GA 30374, www. equifax.com, 1-800-6851111 Experian, PO Box 2104, Allen, TX 75013, www. experian.com, 1-888-3973742 TransUnion, PO Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016, www. transunion.com, 1-800888-4213 Upon receipt of credit re‐ ports, individuals should review them carefully.

They should look for un‐ recognized accounts or creditor inquiries, and for inaccuracies in re‐ ported data such as ad‐ dress, payment history, or date of birth. If any‐ thing looks incorrect, in‐ dividuals should contact the credit reporting agency using contact in‐ formation provided with the report. Individuals may also contact the Federal Trade Commis‐ sion (“FTC”) or their state Attorney General for information about identity theft and credit report fraud alerts and security freezes. The FTC may be contacted at 600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20580, 1-877-ID-THEFT (438-4338), and TTY: 1866-653-4261.

195722-jul 31-aug 6-7t $2,850.48 PUBLIC NOTICE --August 6, 2026 Notice is hereby given that Livingston Council on Aging intends to apply for a federal grant for operating assistance and/or capital assistance to provide Rural Public Transportation of a non-emergency, ambula‐ tory nature for the FY 2027-2028 program year.

The application for assis‐ tance

is pursuant to the NonUrbanized Area Formula Program of 49 CFR 5311.

Services will generally be between 7:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.� Monday through Friday, in the area encompassing Liv‐ ingston Parish, Louisiana. Transit ser‐ vices are provided with‐ out regard to race, color, and national origin in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act. Written comments on the proposed services may be sent within 15 days to 949 Government St., Den‐ ham Springs, LA 70726, and to the Program Manager, Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, P.O. Box 94245, Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9245.

Comments must be received by Au‐ gust 21, 2026.

195962-aug 6-27-2t $291.62 PUBLIC NOTICE --Final Notice and Public Explanation of a Proposed Activity in a Regulatory Floodway or Wetland To: All interested Federal, State, and Local Agen‐ cies, Groups and Individ‐ uals This is to give notice that the Town of Farmerville (TOF) has conducted an evaluation as required by Executive Order 11990 and in accordance with HUD regulations at 24 CFR 55.20 in Subpart C Procedures for Making Determinations on Flood‐ plain Management and Wetlands Protection. The activity is funded under Louisiana Water‐ shed Initiative Commu‐ nity Development Block Grant Mitigation pro‐ gram B-18-DP 22-0001.

The proposed project(s) is located near Gulley Street in Farmerville, Union Parish and encom‐ passes 0.06 acres of palustrine wetland. The proposed project will in‐ clude hardening the upper and lower reaches of the Gulley Street drainage system, adding an additional box culvert in the buried middle stretch of the channel to improve upon the cur‐ rently undersized sys‐ tem, and adding a reten‐ tion basin with a littoral shelf to the drainage sys‐ tem near East Water Street.

TOF has considered the following alternatives and mitigation measures to minimize adverse im‐ pacts and to restore and preserve natural and beneficial functions and intrinsic values of the ex‐ isting floodplain/wet‐ land: Firstly, this flood risk re‐ duction project is in re‐ sponse to recurring flood events that have oc‐ curred in recent years.

An alternative that was considered was to con‐ struct a larger water re‐ tention area approxi‐ mately 0.25 miles south‐ east of the current loca‐ tion near Barron Drive.

This alternative would provide additional stor‐ age retention capacity for storm water runoff during times of high vol‐ ume rain events. This al‐ ternative, however, would have resulted in more significant environ‐ mental impacts, includ‐ ing those to WOTUS, wildlife, and vegetation from the project. Based on these reasons, the considered alternative was not determined to be the preferred option.

All activities within the floodplain and wetland areas will be conducted in accordance with ap‐ plicable federal, state, and local floodplain man‐ agement and wetland protection requirements, including any required permits, approvals, and best management prac‐ i i i i i

lll

Legal Notices

g p tices to minimize im‐ pacts to water quality and adjacent wetlands.

TOF has reevaluated al‐ ternatives to building in the wetland area and has determined that it has no practicable alternative to wetland development.

Environmental files doc‐ umenting compliance with Executive Order Ex‐ ecutive Order 11990, are available for public in‐ spection, review and copying upon request at the times and location delineated in the last paragraph of this notice for receipt of comments.

There are three primary purposes for this notice.

First, people who may be affected by activities in wetlands and those who have an interest in the protection of the natural environment should be given an opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Sec‐ ond, an adequate public notice program can be an important public edu‐ cational tool. The dis‐ semination of informa‐ tion and request for pub‐ lic comment about wet‐ lands can facilitate and enhance Federal efforts to reduce the risks and impacts associated with the oc‐ cupancy and modifica‐ tion of these special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government determines it will partici‐ pate in actions taking place in wetlands, it must inform those who may be put at greater or continued risk.

Written comments must be received by the TOF at the following address on or before August 13, 2026: Town of Farmerville, 1024 Sterlington Hwy, Farmerville, LA 71241, At‐ tention: John Crow, Mayor. A full description of the project may also be reviewed from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM at the ad‐ dress listed above.

Comments may also be submitted via email at Matt@wetlandsunlimit ed.org.

Date: August 6, 2026 196561 Aug. 7, 1t $495.00 PUBLIC NOTICE --NOTICE TO PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT I HAVE COMPLETED THE 2026 LISTINGS OF TAXABLE PROPERTY IN THE PARISH OF IBERVILLE AND HAVE ESTIMATED THE VALUES THEREON AND THAT SAID LISTINGS WILL BE EXPOSED IN MY OFFICE FOR PUBLIC IN‐ SPECTION AND CORREC‐ TIONS FOR A PERIOD OF FIFTEEN (15) CALENDAR DAYS, BEGINNING AU‐ GUST 17, 2026 AND END‐ ING AUGUST 31, 2026.

TAXPAYERS DESIRING TO EXAMINE THEIR ASSESS‐ MENT ARE REQUIRED TO CALL MY OFFICE DURING SAID 15-DAY PERIOD. John R. “Randy” Sexton Assessor, Parish of Iberville 225-687-3568 ADV 7/28/2026 & 8/6/2026 194527 July 28, 2026 & Aug. 6, 2026 $49.36 PUBLIC NOTICE --PUBLIC NOTICE OPPOR‐ TUNITY FOR REQUESTING A PUBLIC HEARING All interested persons are hereby advised that the Livingston Council on Aging has applied to the Louisiana Department of Transportation and De‐ velopment for project funding under Federal Transit Administration (Section 5310 and/or 5311) for the

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given that I have completed the listing of all property in the Parish of Livingston for tax year 2026. I have estimated the values thereon and said listing will be exposed in my office for public inspection and correction for a period of fifteen (15) calendar days, beginning on August 17, 2026, and ending August 31, 2026. Any taxpayer desiring to examine his assessment is required to come to the Assessor’s Office (20400 Government Blvd., Livingston, LA 70754) during said fifteen-day period.

PLEASE NOTE: You must submit all information concerning the value of your property to your assessor before the deadline for filing an appeal with the Board of Review. The failure to submit such information may prevent you from relying on that information should you protest your value.

______________________________________ Jeffrey G Taylor Assessor, Livingston Parish Publication Dates: Livingston Parish News 7/30/26 & 8/6/26

Publication Dates: The Advocate 7/30/26 & 8/6/26

193962-667097-jul 30-aug 6-2t $ 840.00

OFFICIAL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE – RE-ZONING THE TOWN OF BRUSLY, LOUISIANA ORDINANCE NO. 6 OF 2026

Legal Notices

following: PROJECT: Livingston Council on Aging is preparing to replace ex‐ isting equipment to con‐ tinue transportation services in the Parish. Further de‐ tails relative to the pro‐ ject are available from Stephanie Landry, 949 Government St., Denham Springs, LA 70726, (225) 664-9343.

Interested persons are advised that they may request that a public hearing be conducted to provide a means for the public to express their views rela‐ tive to the proposed pro‐ ject on the probable social, economic, and en‐ vironmental effects in‐ volved. In lieu of request‐ ing a public hearing, interested persons may submit their comments in writing.

Written requests for a public hearing and/or submittal of comments must be postmarked on or before September 8, 2026, and should be addressed to: Stephanie Landry, 949 Government St., Denham Springs, LA 70726. Should a public hearing be re‐ quired, a public notice will be published stating the date, time, and loca‐ tion of the hearing.

195967-AUG 6-27-2T $372.94

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Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE --PUBLIC NOTICE OPPOR‐ TUNITY FOR REQUESTING • A PUBLIC HEARING All interested persons are hereby advised that the Livingston Council on Aging has applied to the Louisiana Department of Transportation and De‐ velopment for project funding under Federal Transit Administration (Section 5310 and/or 5311) for the following: PROJECT: Livingston Council on Aging is preparing to replace ex‐ isting equipment to con‐ tinue transportation services in the Parish. Further de‐ tails relative to the pro‐ ject are available from Stephanie Landry, 949 Government St., Denham Springs, LA 70726, (225) 664-9343.

Interested persons are advised that they may request that a public hearing be conducted to provide a means for the public to express their views rela‐ tive to the proposed pro‐ ject on the probable social, economic, and en‐ vironmental effects in‐ volved. In lieu of request‐ ing a public hearing, interested persons may submit their comments in writing.

Written requests for a public hearing and/or submittal of comments must be postmarked on or before August 21, 2026, and h ld b dd d

Legal Notices

Legal Notices

Legal Notices

g should be addressed to: Stephanie Landry, 949 Government St., Denham Springs, LA 70726. Should a public hearing be required, a public notice will be pub‐ lished stating the date, time, and location of the hearing.

part C Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Manage‐ ment. The 500-year flood‐ plain (0.2 percent annual chance) was used to de‐ fine the FFRMS flood‐ plain.

of Other Waters. Wet‐ lands impacts have been offset by the purchase of mitigation acreage.

607 W Morris Ave Hammond, LA 70403 tsoileau@elosenv.com (985) 662-5501

There are three primary purposes for this notice.

First, people who may be affected by activities in floodplains and those who have an interest in the protection of the nat‐ ural environment should be given the opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Sec‐ ond, an adequate public notice program can be an important public edu‐ cational tool. The dis‐ semination of informa‐ tion about floodplains can facilitate and en‐ hance Federal efforts to reduce the risks associ‐ ated with the impacts to the special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal govern‐ ment determines it will participate in actions taking place in flood‐ plains, it must inform those who may be put at a greater or continued risk.

196238-aug 6-1t $428.64

195964-AUG 6-27-2T $383.16 PUBLIC NOTICE --RE: Public Notice for West Shore Lake Pontchartrain Connector Levee To: All interested Federal, State, and Local Agen‐ cies, Groups, and Individ‐ uals This is to give notice that the St. James Parish Gov‐ ernment (SJPG) under 24 CFR Part 58 has deter‐ mined that this proposed action under Louisiana Office of Community De‐ velopment – Disaster Re‐ covery (LOCD-DR) num‐ ber B-18-DP-22-0001 of the Community Develop‐ ment Block Grant-Mitiga‐ tion (CDBG-MIT) program is located in the 500-year floodplain/Federal Flood Risk Management Stan‐ dard (FFRMS) riverine floodplain/wetland and SJPG will be evaluating practicable alternatives to locating this action in the floodplain and the potential impacts from the proposed action, as required by Executive Or‐ ders 11988 and 11990, as amended by Executive Order 13690 in accor‐ dance with HUD regula‐ tions at 24 CFR 55.20 Sub‐

UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT EASTERN DISTRICT OF LOUISIANA In re: § § Case No. 26-10678 CROSBY MARINE § TRANSPORTATION,LLC, § Chapter 11 § Debtors. 1 § SECTION: A § § (Joint Administration) § §( Complex Designation) NOTICE OF BAR DATE FOR FILING PROOFS OF CLAIM TO ASSERT A MARITIME LIEN NOTICE: Your rights may be affected. You should read these papers carefully and discuss them with your attorney, if you have one in this bankruptcy case. If you do not have an attorney, you may wish to consult one.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE on March 23, 2026 (“Original Petition Date”), Crosby Marine Transportation, LLC (“Transportation”), Crosby Tugs, LLC (“Tugs”), Crosby Dredging, LLC (“Dredging”), and Bertucci Contracting Company, L.L.C. (“Bertucci” and collectively, “Original Debtors”), as Debtors in Possession, each filed for relief under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code thereby commencing these cases (the “Chapter 11 Case(s)”).

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE on July 16, 2026, (“Additional Debtor Petition Date”), Crosby Inshore Marine Services, LLC, Crosby Marine Repair, L.L.C., Crosby Offshore Marine Service, LLC, Kurt Crosby, LLC, Tala Marine, LLC, Webb Crosby, LLC, Crosby Inland Marine, LLC, Crosby Real Estate, LLC, Tala Real Estate, LLC, and Crosby Enterprises, L.L.C. (the “Additional Debtors” and together with the Original Debtors, the “Debtors”), as Debtors in Possession also filed for relief under chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code, commencing the Additional Debtors’ chapter 11 cases.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Court has set August 29, 2026 (the “Additional Bar Date”) as the deadline for any person or entity that asserts a lien (a “Maritime Lien”) (other than preferred ship mortgage) under the Commercial Instrument and Maritime Lien Act (46 U.S.C. §§ 13101–13143 (“CIMLA”) against a vessel owned by an Additional Debtor as of the Petition Date (referred to as “Creditor” or “Creditors”) to file a Proof of Claim as modified by the Order establishing the Additional Bar Date. The Additional Bar Date applies only to those Creditors who assert

PROCES VERBAL PROCES VERBAL OF THE CANVASS OF THE VOTES CAST AT THE ELECTION HELD IN THE ZACHARY COMMUNITY SCHOOL SYSTEM, PARISH OF EAST BATON ROUGE, STATE OF LOUISIANA, ON SATURDAY, JUNE 27, 2026.

BE IT KNOWN AND REMEMBERED that on the 14th day of July, 2026 at 7:00 p.m., at its regular meeting place, the Zachary Community School Board Office, 3755 Church Street, Zachary, Louisiana, the Zachary Community School Board (the “Governing Authority”), acting as the governing authority of the Zachary Community School System, Parish of East Baton Rouge, State of Louisiana (the “System”), and being the authority ordering the election held therein on Saturday, June 27, 2026, did examine and canvass the returns of the election, there having been submitted at the election the following proposition, to-wit: PROPOSITION (AD VALOREM TAX) Shall the Zachary Community School System, Parish of East Baton Rouge, State of Louisiana (the “System”), be authorized to levy and collect an ad valorem tax of twenty-four (24) mills on the dollar of assessed valuation on all property subject to taxation within its boundaries (the “Tax”) (an estimated $8,400,000 is reasonably expected to be collected from the levy of the Tax for an entire year), for twenty (20) years, beginning with the tax year 2026, and annually thereafter, to and including 2045, and shall said Tax (after paying reasonable and necessary expenses of collection and administration), be used entirely and exclusively for the purpose of providing additional support to public elementary and secondary schools within the System and for any lawful school purposes, including paying salaries and benefits of school system personnel, but in no event shall the levy and collection of the Tax, together with any millage levied to debt service any heretofore existing outstanding general obligations of the System, exceed twenty-four (24) mills in any tax collection year?

There was found by said count and canvass that the following votes had been cast at the said special election IN FAVOR OF and AGAINST, respectively, the proposition as hereinabove set forth at the following polling places, to-wit: FOR AGAINST

Zachary High School, 4100 Bronco Lane, Zachary

176

39

02/013A (PART OF)

Baker High School, 3200 Groom Road, Baker

7

2

02/013B (PART OF)

Baker High School, 3200 Groom Road, Baker

3

6

02/014A

Northwestern Middle School, 5200 E. Central Avenue, Zachary

62

52

02/014B

Northwestern Middle School, 5200 E. Central Avenue, Zachary

66

38

02/015 (PART OF)

GEO Prep Baker School, 5300 Bentley Drive, Baker

42

9

02/018A

144

70

A PUBLIC HEARING will be held by the Brusly Town Council relative to the re-zoning request.

Zachary Elementary School, 3775 Hemlock Street, Zachary

02/018B

Zachary Elementary School, 3775 Hemlock Street, Zachary

106

66

Date:

02/021

Rollins Place Elementary School, 4488 Rollins Place, Zachary

301

120

02/026 (PART OF)

Grace Baptist Church, 4626 Rush Drive, Zachary

55

54

02/028

Northwestern Middle School, 5200 E. Central Avenue, Zachary

226

111

02/029

Zachary High School, 4100 Bronco Lane, Zachary

152

97

02/032

BREC Church Street Park, 3210 Church Street, Zachary

302

154

02/034

Copper Mill Elementary School, 1300 Independence Blvd., Zachary

260

100

02/035

Rollins Place Elementary School, 4488 Rollins Place, Zachary

118

92

Property Address: Property Owners:

A PUBLIC HEARING will be held by the Town of Brusly Zoning Commission relative to the re-zoning request.

Date:

WEDNESDAY, August 26, 2026

MONDAY, September 14, 2026

Time:

Time:

6:30 P.M.

6:30 P.M.

All hearings will be conducted in the Council Chambers of the Brusly Town Hall, 601 South Vaughan Drive, Brusly, Louisiana.

The proposed re-zoning application is available for inspection at Town Hall during regular office hours.

Publish in The Advocate (Baton Rouge) three (3) times: August 6, 13 & 20, 2026.

196112-673812-Aug. 6, 13, 20-3t $ 207.90

192994-jul 2-aug 15-45t $207.90

HOME-DELIVERED

EVERY DAY

Written comments must be received by Tim Soileau at ELOS Environ‐ mental on behalf of SJPG at the following address on or before August 23, 2026, during the hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Tim Soileau Project Manager/Envi‐ ronmental Scientist ELOS Environmental, LLC

NOLA.COM/SUBSCRIBE

See more CLASSIFIEDS, page

Further information, including how to file a Proof of Claim and all forms and attachments, is available at https://cases.stretto.com/ crosby/file-a-claim/. The website also contains a copy of the Order approving this Notice.

POLLING PLACE LOCATION

Re-Zoning From C-1 (Light Commercial) To R-4 (Multifamily Residential) 102 N. LaBauve Avenue, Brusly Kyle Paul Thibodeaux, Ryan Clifton Fabre, Brad K. Fabre

The Louisiana Office of State Parks is requesting proposals for a PublicPrivate Partnership pro‐ ject to design, construct, and operate a high-qual‐ ity recreational vehicle campground and related amenities. For more in‐ formation go to opportu‐ nitiesinlouisiana.com.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that if you previously filed a proof of claim against an Original Debtor and are now asserting a lien against an Additional Debtor’s vessel, you must file an additional proof of claim and identify the information above.

02/005 (PART OF)

Request:

PUBLIC NOTICE ---

a Maritime Lien against an Additional Debtor’s vessel.

WARD/ PRECINCT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to LA R.S. 33:4724 and 33:4726 to all citizens and all other interested persons that the Town of Brusly Zoning Commission has held and the Town Council of the Town of Brusly will hold Public Hearings to obtain views regarding the following re-zoning request:

The project consists of installation of an approx‐ imate 4-mile (mi) earthen levee, associated canal widening/excavation, three environmental water control (EWC) structures, and two pump stations on an ap‐ proximate 75-acre site.

The project beginning point is 30° 03’ 06.06” N, 90° 44’ 46.48” W and the project end point is 30° 04’ 29.95” N, 90° 42’ 27.69” W. The EWC structures will be sluice gates (6feet [ft] X 6-ft) as flood control measures to allow the levee to remain an open system until cir‐ cumstances require clo‐ sure according to the op‐ erational plan. The con‐ nector levee will be tied in to high ground on ei‐ ther side of the project area, essentially con‐ necting the Grand Point Ring Levee to the Gramercy Ring Levee.

Proposed design fea‐ tures include proposed levee width of ~38-feet (ft), levee berms width of ~25-ft, and canal widen‐ ing width of ~66-ft. Pro‐ posed water control structures will be 19-ft X 62-ft and would include 24-inch (in) thick riprap drainage outfall. The pro‐ posed project would im‐ pact 75 acres of FFRMS floodplain considering temporary work space and would permanently impact 18.45 acres of wetlands and 24.87 acres

Legal Notices

IF YOU ARE NOT ASSERTING A MARITIME LIEN, THIS NOTICE DOES NOT APPLY TO YOU. _____________________________ 1 The Court entered an Order directing joint administration of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy case of Crosby Marine Transportation, LLC [No. 2610678], as lead case, with the Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases of (i) Crosby Tugs, L.L.C. [No. 26-10679], (ii) Crosby Dredging, LLC [No. 26-10678], and (iii) Bertucci Contracting Company, L.L.C. [No. 26-10681], on March 24, 2026, [No. 26-10678, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-10679, ECF Doc. 4; No. 26-10680, ECF Doc. 4; No. 26-10681, ECF Doc. 4]. The Court entered an Order directing joint administration of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy case of Crosby Marine Transportation, LLC [No. 26-10678], as lead case, with the Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases of (i) Crosby Inshore Marine Service, L.L.C. [No. 26-11734], (ii) Crosby Marine Repair, L.L.C. [No. 26-11735], (iii) Crosby Offshore Marine Service, L.L.C. [No. 26-11736], (iv) Kurt Crosby, L.L.C. [No. 26-11737], (v) Tala Marine, L.L.C. [No. 26-11738], (vi) Webb Crosby, L.L.C. [No. 26-11739], (vii) Crosby Inland Marine, LLC [No. 26-11740], (viii) Crosby Real Estate, LLC [No. 26-11741], (ix) Tala Real Estate, LLC [No. 26-11742], and (x) Crosby Enterprises, L.L.C. [No. 2611743], on July 21, 2026. [No. 26-10678, ECF Doc. 663; No. 26-11734, ECF Doc. 10; No. 26-11735, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-11736, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-11737, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-11738, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-11739, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-11740, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-11741, ECF Doc. 9; No. 2611742, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-11743, ECF Doc. 9].

196225-674095-Aug. 6, 9, 20, 23-4t $ 4,645.00

02/036A

Zachary Branch Library, 1900 Church Street, Zachary

178

85

02/036B

Zachary Branch Library, 1900 Church Street, Zachary

161

72

02/037

BREC Church Street Park, 3210 Church Street, Zachary

164

75

02/038

Copper Mill Elementary School, 1300 Independence Blvd., Zachary

237

110

985

908

ABSENTEE

The polling places above specified being the only polling places designated at which to hold the election, it was therefore shown that there was a total of 3,745 votes cast IN FAVOR OF the Proposition and a total of 2,260 votes cast AGAINST the Proposition, as hereinabove set forth, and that there was a majority of 3,745 votes cast IN FAVOR OF the Proposition as hereinabove set forth.

The foregoing election was authorized by a resolution adopted on February 10, 2026 by the Governing Authority and notice therefore was duly given by the Notice of Special Election attached hereto as Exhibit A. Said Notice of Special Election was published on April 30, 2026, May 7, 2026, May 14, 2026 and May 21, 2026 in the Advocate, as set forth in the proof of publications attached hereto as Exhibit B. THEREFORE, the Zachary Community School Board (the “Governing Authority”), acting as the governing authority of the Zachary Community School System, Parish of East Baton Rouge, State of Louisiana (the “System”), does hereby declare and proclaim in open and public session that the Proposition, as hereinabove set forth, was duly PASSED in the System on Saturday, June 27, 2026, and that the results of said election be promulgated by the Secretary of State and by the Clerk of Court in the manner required by law.

THUS DONE AND SIGNED at Zachary, Louisiana, on this, the 14th day of July, 2026.

ATTEST:

/s/ Andrew Gaines Andrew Gaines, President

/s/ Ben Necaise Ben Necaise, Superintendent EXHIBIT A NOTICE OF SPECIAL ELECTION (On file with the Zachary Community School Board) EXHIBIT B PROOF OF PUBLICATIONS (On file with the Zachary Community School Board) STATE OF LOUISIANA PARISH OF EAST BATON ROUGE I, the undersigned Superintendent of the Zachary Community School Board (the “Governing Authority”), acting as the governing authority of the Zachary Community School System, Parish of East Baton Rouge, State of Louisiana (the “System”), do hereby certify that the foregoing constitutes a true and correct copy of the Proces Verbal providing for canvassing the returns and declaring the result of the election held in the System, on Saturday, June 27, 2026, to authorize the levy and collection of a not exceeding twenty-four (24) mills ad valorem tax on the assessed valuation of all property subject to taxation therein for a period of twenty (20) years, beginning with the tax year 2026, and annually thereafter, to and including 2045, to be used entirely and exclusively for the purpose of providing additional support to public elementary and secondary schools within the System and for any lawful school purposes, including paying salaries and benefits of school system personnel.

IN FAITH WHEREOF, witness my official signature and the impress of the official seal of said Zachary Community School Board on this 14th day of July, 2026.

(SEAL)

/s/ Ben Necaise Ben Necaise, Superintendent

196237-674124-aug 6-1t $ 288.34