The Times-Picayune 09-24-2026 by The Advocate

SAINTS FIND SUCCESS ON THIRD-AND-LONG SITUATIONS 1C

N O L A.C O M

T h u r s d ay, s e p T e m b e r 24, 2026

“The cemetery had become a bit of a circus out there. There was a complete lack of respect for people using the cemetery as it was meant to be used.” JESSICA STRAWN, acting superintendent of cemeteries for New Orleans

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Education levels hit new high in La.

54% of adults have credentials beyond high school, report says BY HALEY MILLER Staff writer

STAFF PHOTOS By CHRIS GRANGER

A small tour walks around the outside of Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 in New Orleans on Tuesday.

‘NO GHOST TOURS’

Historic Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 reopening with limits on entries BY WILLIE SWETT

More Louisiana students than ever are getting college degrees or other credentials after high school, which state leaders say is the result of a yearslong push to expand dual enrollment, accelerated degrees and other programs. In 2026, 54% of adults in the state had a “credential of value,” meaning they had completed some kind of education beyond high school, according to a Board of Regents report released Wednesday. That number has climbed steadily since Louisiana identiﬁed educational attainment as a priority in 2019, when 44.2% of the population held a credential higher than a high school diploma. The state also graduated 85,000 students with credentials or degrees in 2026. That hits a target the Regents had set for 2030, according to the board. Louisiana does not rank highly compared with other states for education, Louisiana Commissioner of Higher Education Kim Hunter Reed said. But she called the Bayou State a “state on the move.” “We believe that education can move people

ä See EDUCATION, page 5A

Staff writer

When Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 reopens to the public next month after seven years, visitors will be greeted by new gravel walkways and treated magnolia trees. But what’s no longer there might surprise the mourners and family members who’ve been coming for decades. Ghost tourists, film buffs and amateur reenactors — all fixtures of the historic Garden District cemetery in the years leading up to its 2019 closure — will no longer haunt the grounds of New Orleans’ oldest cityowned cemetery. Founded in 1833, the cemetery is the final resting place for thousands of New Orleanians, including some historical figures, such as Judge John Howard Ferguson of Plessy v. Ferguson, and Confederate Gen. Harry T. Hays. But its role in popular fiction — primarily through Anne Rice’s “Interview with the Vampire” — is what had turned it into an attraction that forced the city and its preservation community to reconsider the rules during the renovations. “The cemetery had become a bit of a circus out there,” said Jessica Strawn, the city’s acting superintendent of cemeteries. “There was a complete lack of respect for people using the cemetery as it was meant

Line of credit for Lincoln Beach approved Bond Commission’s sign-off allows project to move forward Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 has been closed to the public since 2019. to be used.” So when Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 reopens Oct. 1, only the New Orleans nonprofit Preservation Resource Center will be allowed to operate tours there. Otherwise, only the family members of those interred there will be allowed. “No ghost tours,” Strawn said. Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 sits across Washington Avenue from Commander’s Palace, one of New Orleans’ most sought-out restaurants, and in the heart of the Garden District where walking tours of prestigious homes cluster on the

sidewalks. But it was Rice’s novels and the ﬁlm that followed that put the spotlight on the cemetery that would likely otherwise be a place of serenity. Tom Cruise, arguably the biggest movie star then, was ﬁlmed traipsing among the tombs for the blockbuster movie. Rice herself once held a mock funeral there. Sara Lowenburg, director of Save Our Cemeteries, a decades-old historic preservation nonprofit that

ä See CEMETERY, page 4A

BY SOPHIE KASAKOVE Staff writer

The State Bond Commission has signed off on a $5.5 million line of credit aimed at the redevelopment of Lincoln Beach — a key source of funding as the city plans to begin construction this year on the long-delayed project. The commission, which can approve municipalities’ requests to incur debt or levy taxes, also agreed on Sept. 17 to let the city borrow more than $8 million aimed at improvements of the Monticello Canal and $300,000 for the rebuilding of the West Bank Ferry Terminal. The commission’s sign-off allows City Hall to proceed with hiring contractors for future phases of construction work at Lincoln Beach, a city ofﬁcial said. In a letter to Louisiana Division of

ä See LINCOLN, page 4A

Veterans facility planned for N.O. East City leaders hope $78 million project spurs economic development BY JONI HESS Staff writer

A sprawling $78 million healthcare facility for veterans is headed to New Orleans East, a critical resource for veterans that city leaders hope will catalyze economic development in an underresourced area. The 60-bed residential U.S. De-

WEATHER HIGH 91 LOW 76 PAGE 6B

partment of Veterans Affairs facility will connect veterans with behavioral health services, rehabilitation, substance use treatment and transitional support when construction is complete at the Levy Drive site off of Bullard Avenue. It will also feature dining amenities and a separate wing dedicated for women veterans. New Orleans-based firms Vet

Build LLC, VPG and Hernandez Consulting & Construction are handling design and construction. The project is expected to break ground by next summer and be completed by late 2028, ofﬁcials said. U.S. Rep. Troy Carter, D-New Orleans, Mayor Helena Moreno and

RENDERING PROVIDED By NEW ORLEANS CITy COUNCIL

A $78 million 60-bed residential Veterans Affairs facility is headed to ä See VETERANS, page 5A New Orleans East.

Business ......................6A Commentary ................5B Nation-World................2A Classified .....................7D Deaths .........................3B Opinion ........................4B Comics-Puzzles .....3D-6D Living............................1D Sports ..........................1C

14TH yEAR, NO. 43

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Rome’s Colosseum closes after worker death

ROME — Rome’s Colosseum, Italy’s most-visited monument, was closed to the public suddenly on Wednesday to mourn a worker who fell to his death overnight while helping install a new illumination project. The 22-year-old man, Andrea Moretti, specialized in working at altitude on ropes. He had been installing cabling for the project that was expected to be completed next month and died inside the Colosseum, the archaeological site’s press ofﬁce said. Premier Giorgia Meloni said that the government was deeply shocked and saddened by the death and called for the cause to be determined as quickly as possible. “Dying at the age of 22 is unacceptable — even more so when it happens in the workplace,” she said in a statement. Authorities are working to determine the circumstances of Moretti’s death, the park’s statement said. A separate statement late Wednesday said the park would remain closed on Thursday to mourn Moretti and in solidarity with his family. Representatives of Italy’s main union, CGIL, were on site after the death to request information about Moretti’s employer and contract and said that closing the monument was the least Rome authorities could do to honor his memory.

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WHO warns of worker shortage Congo Ebola facilities lack enough staff to operate By The Associated Press BUNIA, Congo — Congo is running short of health workers to staff treatment centers for history’s fastest-growing Ebola outbreak, particularly in the eastern province of North Kivu where cases have surged 73% over three weeks, the World Health Organization said Wednesday. The warning came despite signs of improvement in other provinces, including Ituri, the outbreak’s epicenter. The outbreak has spread to seven provinces, with 7,773 conﬁrmed cases and 3,759 deaths, according to the latest government ﬁgures. Between Aug. 31 and Sept. 20, cases fell 26% in Ituri province and 15% in Haut-Uele, said Marie Roseline Belizaire, the WHO’s

regional emergency director for Africa. But transmission patterns vary widely and the outbreak remains uncontrolled, she said. “While cases and deaths are declining in some provinces, they continue to rise in others,” Belizaire said. “The outbreak is still not under control and remains spread across a wide geographic area.” The outbreak is spreading under extremely difﬁcult conditions, fueled by insecurity, displacement, a health workers’ strike and intense population movements. The World Health Organization has said it is on track to surpass the 2014-2016 West Africa Ebola outbreak, the deadliest on record, which killed more than 11,000 people, primarily in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone. Catherine Smallwood, the WHO’s

Ebola incident manager, said cases and deaths had begun declining in North Kivu after several weeks of increases. But although treatment beds are being added daily, facilities still lack enough staff and partners to operate them. “The human resources gap is one of the biggest gaps,” Smallwood said. WHO representative in Congo Anne Ancia said one Ebola treatment center requires about 300 health professionals, including anesthetists, hygienists, nurses and general practitioners. “We are building Ebola treatment centers but do not always have the human resources needed to operate them,” Ancia said. “Those health workers must be paid.” Frontline workers in Ituri previously went on strike over unpaid

Preservation group launches legal defense fund BY JILL COLVIN Associated Press

Flights canceled after fighters take over airport ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — Regional forces in Tigray in northern Ethiopia took control of the local airport on Wednesday morning, prompting the state-owned carrier to cancel flights to the troubled region. Ethiopian Airlines said it suspended flights to Tigray’s capital Mekelle and the cities of Axum and Shire “due to the current situation,” without providing further details. The regional government said in a statement it had instructed its fighters to enter into “defensive war” after federal forces attacked Tigray on Tuesday using drones and heavy artillery. The African Union Commission chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, called for restraint and immediate de-escalation. In a statement, he expressed concern over the renewed tensions and occupation of the airport, saying these actions risk destabilizing the region and reversing gains made in a 2022 peace agreement. He also condemned the “detention of federal personnel by the Tigray People’s Liberation Front,” but did not give details. The U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia Ervin J. Massinga expressed disappointment over the fighting, calling it a “poor decision” and threatening sanctions.

Mass shooting kills 11 in South Africa CAPE TOWN, South Africa — Three gunmen barged into a small house in an impoverished neighborhood in South Africa and opened ﬁre on a group enjoying a party inside, killing at least 11 people including a pregnant woman, police and local authorities said Wednesday. Three others were wounded in the late-night mass shooting Tuesday in KwaMakhutha township, which is located about 19 miles south of the city of Durban on the east coast. The motive for the shooting wasn’t known, but some of the shooting victims were known to authorities as part of investigations into criminal activity, police said. Police didn’t give out any more information on those investigations, saying it could compromise them. “Although the motive of the shooting cannot be confirmed yet, (a) feud between rival groupings cannot be ruled out,” the South African Police Service said in a statement. Ten people, including the pregnant woman, died at the scene and an 11th was declared dead at a hospital. Authorities didn’t immediately give out details on the condition of the three people who were wounded. Police said they were searching for three men and no arrests had been made.

wages, worsening access to care. Health Minister Roger Kamba said in July that the government was verifying payroll lists after the names of people not involved in the response were added. Frontline workers said ofﬁcials promised to pay the arrears, but some workers received nothing and others only part of what they were owed. Another major challenge in the response is the fatality rate among children, according to the WHO. Children under 5 have the highest case fatality rate, more than 60% compared with approximately 40% among adults, Belizaire said. WHO Ebola Incident Manager Smallwood said detecting cases among children under 5 is also very difﬁcult because the children can’t necessarily explain their symptoms, and the presentation of symptoms can be confusing.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By ALEX BRANDON

President Donald Trump and China’s President Xi Jinping walk together at Joint Base Andrews, Md., on Wednesday after Trump greeted Xi planeside.

Trump greets China’s Xi planeside for state visit Salutation kicks off three days of events

BY MICHELLE L. PRICE Associated Press

WASHINGTON — Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Washington on Wednesday, where he was met with a rare planeside greeting from President Donald Trump, who was there to welcome his counterpart instead of waiting for him to drive up to the White House. Trump’s decision to greet Xi at Joint Base Andrews just outside Washington rather than receiving him at the executive residence shows how far the U.S. president is going to honor China’s leader as he made his first state visit to the U.S. capital in more than a decade. A 100-foot-long red carpet was unfurled at the bottom of the staircase placed at the door of Xi’s plane, where a 21-person honor guard was arrayed and Trump and first lady Melania Trump stood waiting for Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan, when they walked down the staircase and shook hands with the Trumps. The welcome ceremony was also set to include a flyover by two B-1 bombers, flower presenters, platoons from each military service, and a presentation of the flags and anthems of both countries. The salutation kicks off a three-day visit that’s expected to be saturated with pomp, even by White House standards. The state visit, complete with a

formal state dinner at the White House on Thursday, is supposed to reciprocate the ceremonial grandeur that marked Trump’s May visit to China. But it also is a showy patina at a time when tensions between the two geopolitical rivals are high over trade, artiﬁcial intelligence, Trump’s war with Iran and China’s designs on Taiwan. Beyond using the visit to try to keep “strategic stability” between the two countries, Trump seems to be pulling out all the diplomatic stops to show off for Xi. Trump has lavished praise on Xi as a “great leader” and described a warm relationship with the man he has called a friend. That is all while he has given Xi a pass on many issues. Sen. Roger Wicker, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, criticized the “lavish welcome.” Wicker, R-Miss., said during a speech Tuesday in the Senate that Trump should not have invited the Chinese leader “based on all of the troubling issues we have with President Xi and the Chinese Communist Party.” Wicker archly suggested a list of topics that Trump could discuss with Xi at the state dinner, such as “the purposes of China’s massive military buildup, or about China’s clear support for Iran,” saying that “during every minute of dialogue” Trump should keep in mind that “his guest is a brutal, unelected and oppressive dictator who seeks to dominate his neighbors and whose massive military arsenal is aimed directly at the United States of America.”

Pakistani officials say Afghan Taliban shelled Pakistan’s border Kabul denies any attack from their forces

BY RIAZ KHAN and MUNIR AHMED Associated Press

PESHAWAR, Pakistan — Afghanistan’s Taliban forces shelled Pakistani border posts overnight after Pakistani troops foiled what they described as a cross-border infiltration attempt by militants, local Pakistani officials said Wednesday. The spokesman for Afghanistan’s Taliban government, Zabiullah Mujahid, denied any attacks by the Afghan Taliban forces. The conflicting statements came just days after Pakistani fighter jets struck sites in eastern Afghanistan that Islam-

abad said were militant hideouts, an escalation between Kabul and Islamabad that threatens mediation efforts by regional powers. Separately, Pakistani security forces neutralized eight rudimentary drones, which Islamabad said were launched by the Afghan Taliban, before they could enter the northwestern city of Kohat and the border town of Torkham. All the drones were shot down and caused no damage, authorities said, adding the action underscored Pakistan’s round-theclock vigilance and readiness. This week’s airstrikes ended several weeks of relative calm following months of cross-border hostilities. Also, earlier this month, Pakistani security forces killed 15 militants attempting to cross into the country from Afghanistan.

NEW YORK — The National Trust for Historic Preservation, which has been at the forefront of efforts to halt President Donald Trump’s massive White House ballroom project, is launching a new legal defense fund to help underwrite its work. The group on Wednesday announced a campaign aimed at raising $10 million “to protect and honor our nation’s shared civic and cultural inheritance against urgent threats emanating from Washington.” The group’s president and CEO, Brent Leggs, said the fund was the ﬁrst of its kind for the privately funded nonprofit organization, which is charged by Congress with protecting historic sites, and would help bolster its legal division and government relations staff. “It is a response to the urgent and existential threats to historic preservation,” he said. The group has been critical of efforts by the president to put his lasting

stamp on Washington and the White House. So far that includes razing the East Wing to make way for a ballroom that will dwarf the rest of the complex; paving over the White House Rose Garden to create a patio in the style of his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida; adding a helipad to the South Lawn; and redecorating the Oval Ofﬁce with golden accents. Elsewhere in the nation’s capital, he has been trying to rename and renovate the Kennedy Center, is working to build an enormous triumphal arch between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery, and has tried repeatedly to refurbish the Lincoln Memorial Reﬂecting Pool. The group is part of a lawsuit aimed at halting the administration’s efforts to overhaul the Kennedy Center. It has also been pushing back against proposed changes to the National Historic Preservation Act that it says threaten legal protections for historic sites and public land.

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CEMETERY

Continued from page 1A merged with the Preservation Resource Center last year, said that families would pay their respects at the graves of loved ones while nearby guides reenacted scenes from movies or shared supernatural stories. By 2005, the cemetery’s story had gone national. The Los Angeles Times reported preservationists complaining the cemetery was such a popular ﬁlming location it had “been trashed, trampled, spray-painted and otherwise defaced.” Paul Pastorek, who sits on the board of an association formed to advocate for owners of the cemetery’s tombs, said sometimes people burying family members would be photographed by tourists. It was “very obtrusive,” he said. That group, called the Tomb and Coping Owners’ Association, was formed in 2019 after a tourist trying to look inside a tomb broke off a piece of it, Pastorek said.

Reopening In 2019, the city decided to close the cemetery to the public, in part for repairs, but also to respond to family members’ concerns, Lowenburg said. The city replaced the broken asphalt pathways with gravel pathways that have a lining underneath them to help with drainage, Strawn said. They got rid of some dead magnolia trees and treated living ones, and a structural engineer reviewed the condition of the cemetery’s wall foundation. The effort spanned two administrations and the coronavirus pandemic, which ground much of city government to a halt. The cemetery did not reopen until now, Strawn said, because of limited staffing, personnel changes and because the city wanted to thoroughly research the concerns of families. Burials continued during the period it remained closed, she said. The city did not provide the cost of the project. To help give Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 a more appropriate atmosphere, the city selected the nonproﬁt Preservation Resource Center as the sole tour operator after sending out a request for proposals in May, Lowenburg said. It will offer 75-minute and 90-minute historical tours for groups of up to 16 in the mornings. The cemetery will be closed to the public on All Saints’ Day, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and other days

LINCOLN

Continued from page 1A Administration Commissioner Taylor Barras last month, New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno wrote that the city would use the debt to construct “critical infrastructure necessary to safely reopen Lincoln Beach for public use,” part of a $15 million plan to reopen the Lake Pontchartrain site next year. Moreno said the Monticello Drainage Canal improvements will “address recurring flooding in the Hollygrove neighborhood.” The city can also use $300,000 appropriated for renovations at the West Bank Ferry Terminal to improve access for pedestrians and people with disabilities. In an interview Monday, Moreno highlighted the funding as a win for the city, which saw Gov. Jeff Landry veto more than $33 million

Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 was founded in 1833 and is the final resting place for thousands of New Orleanians.

STAFF PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER

the exact percentage depends on how much revenue the tours bring in. The city gets 20% of revenue up to $150,000, while it gets 27.5% of revenue over $350,000, a copy of the city’s contract shows. All the tombs in Lafayette No. 1 are privately owned and maintained by the owners, but the city is in charge of maintaining common areas like the walkways, walls, gates and lights. Like other cemeteries in New Orleans, the tombs are above ground on account of ﬂooding. Five percent of the PRC’s tour revenue will also go toward a preservation fund that pays for tomb repair in city-owned cemeteries, according to the contract. This summer, the PRC completed a renovation of the cemetery’s German Presbyterian Society Tomb, a 20-vault Gothic Revival tomb built in 1866. “It’s an architectural library,” Wollenburg said of the cemetery. In a statement, Mayor Helena STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER Moreno said, “Reopening LafayCommander’s Palace rises behind Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 on Tuesday. ette Cemetery No. 1 to tours gives residents and visitors the opporpeople traditionally visit their respect the fact that it’s still an ac- gle company. tunity to experience and learn family tombs, Lowenburg said. The city will receive a percent- from that history, while ensuring tive cemetery,” Pastorek said. “I think the way it’s been proIn 2021, the Archdiocese of New age of the tour revenue, which it we continue to treat this sacred posed to be handled is going to Orleans similarly limited tours of will use to pay for cemetery main- space with the care and respect it be done in such a way that it does St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 to a sin- tenance costs, Strawn said, though deserves.”

in state funding lawmakers intended to send to New Orleans in June in a move local ofﬁcials derided as political retribution. It comes as Moreno’s administration has warned of extensive budget cuts. Moreno also in July withdrew her request for State Bond Commission approval of a $110 million bond sale, citing warnings that Landry and Murrill would not support it. “There are some things obviously that were vetoed that were not great, including some of the planning and design for what will be the new City Hall,” Moreno said Monday, adding that she was she was grateful for the State Bond Commission’s recent approvals. “I am more than happy to work with anybody who is willing to assist us and getting to where the city needs to go,” said Moreno. In an interview on WBOK’s “Good Morning Show” earlier Tuesday, Landry reiterated that he would not speak with Moreno

and the other ﬁve city leaders involved in the indictment until an investigation is complete, but that he is maintaining a relationship with District D council member Eugene Green, who has been uninvolved in the proceedings, and that he would reach out to District B council member Lesli Harris. “Even though I’m not speaking to those who may have been involved in this malicious, frivolous indictment of the attorney general, it doesn’t mean that I don’t care about the city,” Landry said, adding that he had an hourlong conversation with Green at the Governor’s Mansion recently. Green and Harris did not immediately respond to a request for comment. As for the $33 million in state funding Landry vetoed this spring, Landry said state leaders were “looking through those particular projects and balancing that against the ﬁscal affairs of the state” during next year’s legislative session.

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closed in the 1960s after desegregation and has enjoyed an unofficial renaissance in recent years as residents began using the closed space. The Lincoln Beach project was originally estimated to cost $24.6 million, but officials have raised that to $15 million for the basic Lincoln Beach, other projects infrastructure needed to open the The city will begin spending an site. Other amenities and attracinitial $500,000 that was previously tions may be added later. allocated by the state on Lincoln The city will use other approved Beach by the end of 2026, Moreno funding to design and construct said in her letter. Improvements improvements to culverts at the include creating “pedestrian and Monticello Canal in Holly Grove. vehicular access, parking, utilities, An 18-month design process is exshoreline protection, improve- pected to begin in November. Moreno’s administration also ments to existing structures, and other supporting infrastructure,” plans to complete designs for improvements at the West Bank she wrote. The beach, located along Lincoln Ferry Terminal by November and Beach Boulevard in New Orleans reopen the renovated terminal in East, is expected to reopen to the early 2027. public by winter 2027, officials said last month, following years of con- Email Sophie Kasakove at struction delays. Historically a site sophie.kasakove@theadvocate. for Black residents, the beach first com.

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D.C.-based group wades into 6th District race Club for Growth launches attack ads against Edmonds

BY TYLER BRIDGES Staff writer

State Senators Rick Edmonds and Blake Miguez — the highestprofile candidates for a vacant Baton Rouge-based congressional seat — have earned a reputation as solid conservatives. Both have H H H H H H a 100% antiabortion voting record from Louisiana Right to Life during their years in the state Legislature. Both score at least 90% from the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry. Both score 100% from the National Federation of Independent Business. Both have the endorsement of the Louisiana Republican Party. But a Washington, D.C.-based group, Club for Growth, has just launched a million-dollar attack ad against Edmonds that says he “lies,” is a “sellout” and is guilty of “betrayal” for his position on three bills over the past ﬁve years. Club for Growth has endorsed Miguez — even though he voted with

ELECTION

EDUCATION

Continued from page 1A from poverty to prosperity,” Reed said. “It’s something we’ve talked about since 2019. We have to stay committed, remain committed, in making sure that more students who enroll with us complete what they start and that more people who never have an opportunity to come to us ﬁnd a way to get to us.” Nationally, around 55% of adults have a post-high school credential, according to data from the Lumina Foundation in 2024. Reed said introducing students to higher education earlier, such as through dual enrollment programs, and intervening when they need more support have helped raise the state’s number of

VETERANS

Continued from page 1A City Council member Jason Hughes joined the project’s developers to announce the plans on Wednesday, calling the hospital a signiﬁcant investment for veterans who are receive sparse resources as they transition to civilian life. “Our veterans deserve nothing less than comprehensive support as they navigate their journey postservice,” said Carter. The facility is also a win for New Orleans East, which Moreno has prioritized in efforts to spur economic growth in the city. “The VA could’ve chosen anywhere to go in the Gulf Coast, but they chose to come right here to New Orleans East,” Moreno said. Hughes added that the 100,000-square-foot facility will bring families, doctors and other healthcare workers to the East who will inject dollars into surrounding small businesses and spur new demand for restaurants and retail. New Orleans East is home to roughly 80,000 people and it has struggled with economic divestment, blight and a lack of diverse retail options for decades — a major source of frustration for residents who often say they feel sidelined by the bustle of the city’s core. The Moreno administration is pushing to fix land issues and market the area’s vast inventory of available sites to investors. Her team announced last month a “New Orleans East Investment and Jobs Corridor” plan that aims to bring aerospace, advanced manufacturing and maritime transportation development to the East. The plan is also a bid to stimulate other investments in the restaurant, retail and

Edmonds on two of the three bills. Both were tax measures signed into law by Gov. Jeff Landry. Edmonds is crying foul. “Club for Growth is spending big dollars to distort my conservative voting record,” Edmonds said in a statement. “Their bogus ad is an attack on our conservative legislature and governor’s efforts to reform the state’s outdated tax code, to give the largest tax cut in Louisiana history, and to bring billions in historic investments to the State of Louisiana, including SpaceX, Venture Global, Meta and Hyundai.” Edmonds added, “Club for Growth wouldn’t know the truth, because, like Blake Miguez, they are not from here and they don’t care about our people.” Edmonds has been attacking Miguez for living in Erath, near New Iberia and outside the 6th District. Miguez notes that he studied in Baton Rouge and currently owns a house in the district. Roy Fletcher, a veteran political consultant in Baton Rouge who works for both Republicans and Democrats, said the Club for Growth ad presents a threat for Edmonds because he will need to respond to it — and may not have the money to do so. The latest campaign ﬁnance reports, through July 18, showed that Edmonds had only $323,000 on hand, while Miguez had $2 million,

thanks to a $3 million loan he made to his campaign. Club for Growth, Fletcher said, “is trying to show that he (Edmonds) is not the conservative he claims he is, that he’s a typical politician. I think they’re doing that because he has a pretty good image, and they want to crack that image.” Club for Growth just might succeed, Fletcher added. “If you don’t have the money to respond, it takes hold and busts your ass,” he said. “TV ads are enormously powerful, especially negative ads.” The Club for Growth ad highlighted a statement by Edmonds from 2016 where, then a state House member, he said, “I would not raise their taxes in order to avoid cutting the size of government.” Edmonds also signed the “Taxpayer Protection Pledge” from Americans for Tax Reform “to oppose and vote against tax hikes.” In 2016, he and Miguez both voted against a temporary 1-cent sales tax increase approved by the Legislature at the request of then-Gov. John Bel Edwards to close a huge budget deﬁcit he inherited from his predecessor, Gov. Bobby Jindal. In 2024, Edmonds and Miguez both voted for a bill sought by Landry that raised the state sales tax but more than offset that by reducing individual and corporate

degree and credential holders. Colleges and universities have also worked to make their offerings more affordable and tied to workforce needs with programs like accelerated bachelor’s degrees, she said. Still, education advocates say Louisiana struggles in other metrics compared to the rest of the country. The six-year graduation rate for the freshman class of 2018 was 54.8%, according to numbers released by the higher education board this spring. The national rate around the same time frame was 61.1%, according to the National Student Clearinghouse. “This is continuous work,” said Erin Bendily, senior vice president at the Pelican Institute for Public Policy. “This is a great celebration for our students, but this is by no means a reason to

declare this work over or done.” She emphasized that, in addition to handing out more credentials overall, Louisiana needs to focus on placing students in industries that guarantee strong wages. “We need to always continuously make sure that the numbers of credentials being earned are also in ﬁelds that represent real opportunity, real economic opportunity,” Bendily said. Other advocates say relying on the educational attainment number alone paints with too broad a brush. The accessibility of post-high school education can vary widely depending on the demographic, said Tramelle Howard, state director of Louisiana for EdTrust. According to the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, the histori-

entertainment space. Last week, city officials announced that Australian battery company Sicono was putting its headquarters in the New Orleans East Regional Business Park. The city is also competing to bring a new national Space Force Academy to Michoud aimed at prepping students for careers in space exploration, engineering and aerospace technology. A representative from Carter’s office said the facility will be funded with federal money through the Department of Veterans Affairs. At present, the New Orleans VA Medical Center, part of the VA Southeast Louisiana Healthcare System, is the only comprehensive healthcare facility for

veterans in Orleans Parish, although there are ﬁve outpatient clinics throughout the state. The new facility would be the ﬁrst of its kind in New Orleans East and it will help free up dozens of inpatient beds from the main medical center, according to the American Legion, a national veterans services organization. It’s expected to serve veterans across the Gulf Coast region. “This will allow our veterans to get quality care and continue to serve this great country in whatever capacity that they so choose,” added Hughes, who represents the East and the Lower 9th Ward.

income taxes. Only one Republican legislator, state Rep. Beryl Amedee of Gray, voted against the measure, House Bill 10. Edmonds’ vote led Club for Growth to say in the ad, “He lied, and we paid.” The ad also said Edmonds voted to give “sweetheart tax deals for woke Big Tech companies” — a reference to legislation in 2024 that authorized Landry to give big tax breaks to Meta for its $50 billion data center now under construction in Richland Parish. Miguez also voted for that measure, House Bill 827. The Club for Growth ad said Edmonds didn’t want the public to know “how much corporate welfare he is shelling out to his cronies” because of a measure he sponsored in 2021 that would have allowed Louisiana Economic Development to not disclose tax breaks it planned to award investors for big projects. That bill didn’t pass, but Landry later got the Legislature to approve a similar measure. Miguez did not vote on Edmonds’ 2021 measure, House Bill 456. Club for Growth did not respond to a request on why it is bashing Edmonds for supporting measures also backed by Miguez. Club for Growth calls itself “the leading free-enterprise advocacy group in the nation.” It issues endorsements

cally Black Southern University had a 38% eight-year graduation rate — compared to a 70% graduation rate at the state’s predominantly White institution, LSU. “I think we need to separate the difference between improvement and adequacy,” Howard said. “Yes, we’re improving quickly, but is it equitable enough to meet the economic demand and needs of Louisiana?” He said improving Louisiana’s statistics is a unique challenge because the state has a large population of students who have been historically disadvantaged. “We have to understand that if we close these gaps,

after having candidates ﬁll out a lengthy questionnaire. Political analysts expect either Edmonds or Miguez to ultimately win the 6th Congressional District. U.S. Rep. Cleo Fields, a Democrat, is vacating the seat after the Republican Legislature reconﬁgured the district in May to elect a Republican this fall. Edmonds represents a Baton Rouge-based district in the state Senate, while Miguez represents a state Senate district south of Lafayette that is not among the 11 parishes in the 6th Congressional District. Four other Republicans are running. They are: Monique Appeaning, a former high-level aide to Baton Rouge Mayor Sid Edwards who lives in St. George; Larry Davis III, a member of the Livingston Parish Republican Parish Executive Committee who lives in Denham Springs; Michael Mebruer, from St. Francisville; and Stephen Wagley, a business owner from Baton Rouge. The Democrats are Chauna Banks, who served 12 years on the East Baton Rouge Parish Metro Council; Pat Forbes, who spent 20 years in high-level state government positions for three governors; and Lindsay Garcia, a former social studies teacher in New Orleans who obtained a law degree from Southern University last year.

that improves economic opportunity for the entire state of Louisiana,” Howard said. “But because we have the higher population of students who are historically underserved, we collectively have to do more work and be more intentional with how we provide the necessary resources to ensure that students can get to completion and attainment.” The Board of Regents hopes to hit a 60% educational attainment rate by 2030. Getting there doesn’t necessarily involve more money, Reed explained, in light of three consecutive years of standstill state budgets. By the end of 2026-27, the

board estimates that 180 programs will have been terminated since it implemented academic planning across the various public institutions. “We recognize that in a resource-constrained environment, we may have to continue to reallocate resources as opposed to getting new dollars,” Reed said. “Institutions realize that we are in a different environment now, where they really have to be laser focused on what are the programs and degrees that are most in demand, and how do we ensure that we provide the best quality and value in the programs that we’re offering.”

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WAITLIST CLOSING Effective Friday, September 25 at 12:00 PM, the waitlist for St. Bernard Manor will close. No applications will be accepted by mail, online or in-person after this time. When the waiting list reopens, we will announce it in the local newspaper and on our website. The best way to keep informed about our waiting lists is to check our website frequently and/or our social media sites. If you are already on the waiting list, you will not be impacted by the waiting list closure. We will continue to process all applications in the order they were received. Please keep the staff informed of any changes to your mailing address, email address or phone number. If staff attempts to contact you and you do not respond by the deadline, your application will be removed.

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6A ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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BUSINESS N O L A.C O M/BIZ

DOW 51,511.59 -352.10 -0.68%

NASDAQ 26,936.04 -308.24 -1.13%

BRIEFS

FROM WIRE REPORTS

U.S. stocks slide on worries about inflation NEW YORK — Pressure from the U.S. bond market hit a new level on Wall Street Wednesday after a surprisingly strong report on the economy raised worries about inflation, while oil prices halted their slide. The squeeze caused U.S. stocks to sink. Stocks wilted after the yield on the 10-year Treasury jumped to 5.10% late Tuesday. High yields undercut prices for stocks and other investments, while also slowing the economy by making it more expensive for everyone to borrow money. Worries about inflation got a jolt Wednesday morning after a preliminary report suggested growth in U.S. business activity surged to its strongest level in more than five years. The price for a barrel of Brent oil to be delivered in November rose 3.9% to $103.08 on Wednesday. That is much higher than the roughly $72 it cost before the war with Iran began. KB Home became the latest to deliver a stronger profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected. But its stock nevertheless swung between losses and gains after the homebuilder’s executive chairman said conditions got even tougher for the industry over the last three months. General Mills likewise reported a stronger profit for the latest quarter than analysts expected. But the company behind the Cheerios and Progresso brands said it also expects growth this fiscal year to fall below its historical track record “driven by a continued challenging consumer backdrop.”

Stockholders approve Caesars-Fertitta merger LAS VEGAS — Caesars Entertainment shareholders have approved a multibillion-dollar merger with Fertitta Gaming that would create one of the largest gaming empires. Caesars has a dominant presence on the Las Vegas Strip. It also operates casino resorts across the United States. Billionaire owner Tilman Fertitta is the largest shareholder in Wynn Resorts and the sports betting company DraftKings. Fertitta stepped back from his role as president and director of his company following his April 2025 conﬁrmation as U.S. ambassador to Italy and San Marino. The merger was first announced in May, with Fertitta agreeing to pay $5.7 billion and take on close to $12 billion in debt from Caesars, putting the total value of the deal at about $17.6 billion. Caesars and Fertitta still must complete the federal antitrust review process. If it goes through, Caesars will become a privately-held company. Its shareholders will get $31 in cash for each share they own.

Melania Trump rings opening bell at NYSE WASHINGTON — Melania Trump rang the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange on Wednesday to promote her new initiative to help women become leaders and achieve economic power. It’s called Imperia, and its members include CEOs, founders, innovators, entrepreneurs and others. The first lady also rang the opening bell at the NYSE in January before the release of her Amazon documentary, “Melania,” about her life in the weeks leading up to Donald Trump’s inauguration for a second term in ofﬁce. A new two-part docuseries featuring her will be released in the fall. She said it will be different from the documentary and teased that it will include some surprises. “It’s more conversation, one on one with me,” the ﬁrst lady said. “So when I was traveling and doing all of the filming, the director was asking me questions, and there are some private questions that I will answer that people never heard before. So it’s kind of exciting.”

S&P 500 7,706.03 -58.61 -0.76%

EURO 1.1382 -0.0066 -0.58%

CRUDE OIL 92.16 1.64 1.81%

GOLD 4,281.30 -57.60 -1.33%

6-MO T-BILLS 4.34 0.04 0.93%

30-YR T-BONDS 5.39 0.1 1.79%

CFTC warns prediction markets

in June to crack down on ly generated nor externally veriﬁ- to make more than $100,000 on Pull back on risky proposal bets related to war and terrorism. able,” the CFTC said in a release Kalshi on what President Donald Trump would say in speeches. new guidance, which doesn’t on Tuesday. ‘mention’ bets, it says The carry the weight of an agency rule, The guidance said access to He agreed in August to pay over

BY NICOLA WHITE

Bloomberg News (TNS) Prediction market wagers involving bets on what high-proﬁle people might say in public present heightened manipulation risk and can only be offered in limited circumstances, Commodity Futures Trading Commission staff warned in new guidance. The advisory is the regulator’s latest attempt to reel in the exploding industry after it ﬂoated a

applies to a niche corner of prediction markets, where users can place yes-or-no trades on future events like sports and politics. The bets on so-called mention markets involve trading on words or phrases people might say in speeches, earnings calls or postgame press conferences. “These contract types present a heightened risk of manipulation because their settlement turns on the discrete conduct of a person that may be neither independent-

scripts, prepared remarks, or unpublished content creates opportunities for trading advantages, noting that “makes individuals more susceptible to inﬂuence by others seeking to manipulate the outcome, whether through social engineering, inducements, or public pressure campaigns.” Mention market wagers were at the center of a CFTC investigation into the trades of a White House teleprompter operator, who allegedly used insider knowledge

$172,000 to settle the regulator’s claims without admitting to the CFTC’s allegations. The National Football League in July asked the CFTC to prohibit these types of wagers for sports, saying broadcast mentions and similar bets are easily manipulated by a single person. Major League Baseball also called on the CFTC to rein in wagers on words uttered during news conferences or postgame interviews.

Next on McDonald’s menu: More tech, hand-breaded chicken Company will spend $8.5B over the next decade to modernize its restaurants, add AI-enabled drive-thru

BY DEE-ANN DURBIN AP business writer

McDonald’s said Wednesday it will spend $8.5 billion over the next decade to modernize its restaurants globally. Fast-food traffic in many markets, including the U.S., is flat, so for McDonald’s to continue to grow it has to grab share from competitors and improve restaurant productivity, McDonald’s Chairman and CEO Chris Kempczinski said at a meeting with investors at the company’s Chicago headquarters. McDonald’s wants to automate more tasks, like inventory and scheduling, and improve kitchen operations. “The winners will be the companies that create more demand and deliver it more efficiently,” Kempczinski said. McDonald’s shares fell nearly 5% Wednesday, their largest percentage drop since April 2025, as investors shuddered at the eye-popping price of improving McDonald’s 46,000 global stores. On the product side, McDonald’s said handbreaded chicken, which has rolled out at 10,000 restaurants in Asia and a handful of restaurants near Chicago, has boosted sales and quality ratings. Many of McDonald’s competitors, like Chick-fil-A and KFC, offer hand-breaded chicken. The company plans to expand its testing to more markets in the U.S. and Ireland next year. McDonald’s also plans to introduce grilled chicken sandwiches and wraps in the U.S. and other markets and experiment with products like egg bites and bowls to meet the needs of customers who are seeking more protein and varied portion sizes. Skye Anderson, the president of McDonald’s USA, said approximately 30 million Americans are now using GLP-1 weight loss drugs, and they’re seeking smaller, more protein-packed meals as a result. But the company’s research indicates that 60 million Americans are actively seeking more protein in their diet. “This is an opportunity. We need to keep giving them more reasons to make McDonald’s their first choice,” Anderson said at McDonald’s investor day. McDonald’s said the restaurant modernizations include lockers to handle delivery orders, more visible coffee preparation areas to enhance quality perceptions, bigger play

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By TED SHAFFREy

McDonald’s said Wednesday that its planned restaurant modernizations include lockers to handle delivery orders, more visible coffee preparation areas to enhance quality perceptions, bigger play areas and improved kitchen layouts. areas and improved kitchen layouts. Scales to help ensure order accuracy — which are already in use at 10,000 restaurants globally — will be in 20,000 restaurants by 2028, McDonald’s said. The company is deploying its ArchIQ system, developed with Google, that improves order accuracy with artificial intelligence and automates tasks like inventory management and scheduling. Archy, the company’s AI-enabled drive-thru ordering system, is now capable of taking orders in Spanish and English with a 90% accuracy rate. Archy could eventually reduce at least 50 labor hours per week in a typical McDonald’s, Chief Financial Officer Ian Borden said. But he said the intention is not to reduce staffing. Instead, employees can focus more on hospitality or on tasks like handbreading chicken. Kempczinski said customers have responded positively to Archy in testing because it helps make their orders more accurate. “It’s not AI is bad or AI is good. We try to be really thoughtful about how we use it,” he said. McDonald’s is also rolling out new employee training that will focus on hospitality and food quality, said Tiffanie Boyd, McDonald’s chief people officer. The training will be more experience-based, showing employees what a perfectly cooked Big Mac tastes like, for example, and will encourage more pleas-

ant interactions with customers. At the same time, McDonald’s is still focused on value. Kempczinski said low-income consumers, defined as U.S. households making $45,000 or less, continue to go out for fast food but not as often as they used to. McDonald’s has done a good job with meal bundles, like its $5 meal deal, he said. But the company is exploring ways to offer entrylevel prices on a basic menu of items in the U.S., as it does in Europe and other markets. “This is the environment that we’re in right now. You have to be on your game and deliver that value,” Kempczinski said. “The pressure around cost of living isn’t going away.” McDonald’s U.S. franchisees typically spend up to $450,000 per decade on required store remodels. Under the company’s new plan, they will have to spend an additional $800,000 over time, but McDonald’s will pay a portion of that cost in the form of rent relief and capital support. Borden said the investments will be phased in over time when markets and individual franchisees are ready for them. Once the investments are made, the efficiency improvements will deliver roughly $100,000 in annual cash flow benefits to the average U.S. restaurant, some of which can be reinvested in the restaurant, Borden said. “We’d love to see it going into hospitality to elevate the experience with our customers,” Borden said.

Bill Clinton calls on leaders to fill gaps left by ‘retreating governments’ Donald Trump and his fund, a $100 million initiative from the successful companies it U.S., other nations cut President administration on multiple fronts. launched Tuesday with an $11 mil- supports to bolster more compa“I suppose I could take my entire lion donation from philanthropists nies. foreign assistance allotted time to discuss the self-ev- Karen and Rob Hale to pay for its Carmen Rojas, the Marguerite

BY GLENN GAMBOA

AP business writer

NEW YORK — Former President Bill Clinton opened this year’s Clinton Global Initiative conference Tuesday in New York, calling on attendees to promise to “step into the void created by retreating governments” following cuts by the United States and other nations to foreign assistance. “We know that we can’t completely ﬁll the hole that retreating governments are leaving behind,” said Clinton, adding that philanthropy and other sectors will have to ﬁnd new ideas and resources to protect progress on issues already made. He made his appeal after opening the conference challenging

ident wisdom of building an Arc de Triomphe in Washington to hold all our drones,” Clinton joked. “Some of this stuff it’s hard to make up.” After the laughter subsided, though, Clinton seriously laid out how he disagreed with the idea that “cooperation is not important, that winning is important in the short run.” The Clinton Global Initiative has convened political, business and philanthropic leaders to address the world’s issues for more than two decades. Donna McKay, the Breast Cancer Research Foundation’s president and CEO, unveiled one of those new ideas Tuesday. BCRF Ventures is the foundation’s first venture philanthropy

creation and early investments to encourage others to donate. “It makes sense that at this point in time when there are extraordinary advances happening that BCRF throw everything that we can at research and science,” McKay told The Associated Press in an interview. “What this venture philanthropy program will do is try to fast-track advances and get them to patients as quickly as possible.” The new initiative will not replace BCRF’s more traditional grantmaking to breast cancer research scientists, which the foundation expanded last year in the face of federal funding cuts to medical research. The goal for the venture philanthropy fund is to use the earnings

Casey Foundation’s president and CEO, outlined a more commonsense approach that is still seen by many in philanthropy circles as radical. “This is an invitation that I give to donors, to foundations in the room, to anybody who has a rich cousin, this is a moment to give out money,” she said. “Lots of it. Right now.” Rojas explained how there is currently extraordinary need and that should be met with extraordinary action. The Marguerite Casey Foundation announced plans in June to increase its annual donations to at least $500 million over the next decade in order to alleviate some of the pain the communities it serves are feeling following federal funding cuts.

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ 7A

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Sen. Collins hammered over Dolly Parton’s estate report of pay-to-play probe granted temporary restraining order

Maine lawmaker calls it ‘completely false’

present at their ofﬁce in downSinger’s nephew town Nashville on Wednesday afNo one came to the door allegedly threatened atternoon. an address listed in court docuto destroy her legacy ments for Seaver in the semi-ru-

BY PATRICK WHITTLE and LISA MASCARO Associated Press

PORTLAND, MAINE — Maine Democrats on Wednesday assailed U.S. Sen. Susan Collins over a news report that the FBI investigated how much she knew about illegal campaign contributions that sent one of her donors to prison. The ProPublica report, published Tuesday, states that the FBI in 2024 planned to launch an investigation into Collins’ dealings with Navatek, a Hawaii defense contractor and donor to her campaign. The investigation, which focused on an alleged pay-to-play scheme, failed to commence after President Donald Trump took ofﬁce after winning the election, according to ProPublica. The report arrived six weeks before an election where Collins is seeking her sixth term against Democrat Troy Jackson. Democrats have targeted the seat, in a state that Trump lost in 2024, as the party tries to win control of the Senate, making it one of the most competitive races on the November ballot. Collins on Tuesday called the entire story “absolutely outrageous” and said it is frustrating and unfair to have such claims made against her so close to the election. Her campaign manager, Steve Abbott, also said Wednesday the allegation that “we charge people to have meetings” is categorically false and Collins accepting campaign cash for contracts “did not happen.” Jackson called the allegation “corruption of the highest order.” He was not present Wednesday when a group of Maine Democrats held a news conference near Collins’ Portland ofﬁce, but said the allegations are a betrayal of trust. “I cannot stress enough here today the seriousness of these allegations. Maine people deserve clear and real answers from Susan Collins right now,” Maine Democratic Party Executive Director Devon Murphy-Anderson said.

BY HALLIE GOLDEN and TRAVIS LOLLER Associated Press

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE

Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, arrives at the Capitol in Washington on June 17. A ProPublica report alleges the head of a Collins super PAC met with executives from a defense contractor and asked them for a campaign donation, after which she committed to getting the company $32 million in Navy contracts.

Already investigated The ProPublica report stated that the head of a Collins super PAC met with executives from defense contractor Navatek in 2019 and asked them for a $500,000 campaign donation. The company’s CEO, Martin Kao, sent an initial $150,000 donation using a shell company, the report stated. ProPublica reported that it reviewed an internal company email from Kao in which the CEO later told Navatek executives that Collins committed to getting the company $32 million in Navy contracts. Kao and two other Navatek executives were later indicted on charges of funneling illegal donations to Collins. Kao sought to reduce his jail sentence by revealing to the FBI the full scope of illegal contributions to Collins, ProPublica reported. Collins said Kao is “a liar” whose story is untrustworthy. “He has been twice convicted in separate federal court cases. He’s been convicted of money laundering. He’s been convicted of bank fraud. He has been convicted of false submissions to the FEC. He’s being convicted of a lot of crimes,” she said. An FBI spokesperson said in a statement that the allegations

“had already been investigated by the FBI years ago and ultimately found nothing implicating Senator Collins or Senator Collins’ campaign. Any suggestion otherwise is totally false.” The ProPublica article also states that Trump’s return to the White House left the Justice Department unable to perform the investigation.

Investigations have decreased The number of FBI agents and Justice Department prosecutors specializing in corruption investigations plummeted in the first months of the Trump administration. The Justice Department, for instance, decimated its elite Public Integrity Section in early 2025 while the FBI disbanded a white-collar fraud and public corruption squad based out of its Washington field office. The administration has also fired numerous law enforcement officials who participated in investigations into Trump, including over his efforts to undo the 2020 presidential election he lost and his retention of classified records at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida. An email seeking comment was sent to the Justice Department on Wednesday.

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A Tennessee judge granted Dolly Parton’s estate a temporary restraining order Wednesday against the late singer’s nephew Bryan Seaver and his private security company. She’s Alive, the entity founded to manage and protect Parton’s estate, had filed the complaint against Seaver and Squadron Augmented Protection Services a day prior. The estate accused Seaver of threatening to commit violence and destroy his aunt’s legacy and business empire in court ﬁlings. The order says the court took into account the repeated threats cited in the complaint, as well as the alleged demands for payment and Seaver’s “claimed access to weapons, experience with violence, and intention to retaliate.” It describes the communications as “concerning,” speciﬁcally noting the threat to use force. As part of the order, Seaver and SAPS must refrain from entering any She’s Alive property or talking with or being within 1,000 feet of She’s Alive employees, attorneys and business partners. The order is also meant to keep him from interfering with its business relationships. A hearing is scheduled for Oct. 7. Seaver, who owns a company that provided Parton’s security detail and was handpicked by the star to announce her death from cancer last month, did not respond to an email Wednesday from The Associated Press requesting comment on the order being granted. Representatives for SAPS also did not respond, and no one was

ral Nashville suburb of Fairview. A woman speaking to a reporter through a doorbell camera declined to comment. In the temporary restraining order request ﬁled by She’s Alive and other court documents, Seaver is accused of sending increasingly threatening messages over the last several weeks. She’s Alive is run by Danny Nozell, Parton’s longtime manager. Last week, She’s Alive terminated Seaver and SAPS, saying his “terrorizing conduct made their continued retention untenable,” according to court documents. The company is also named in the complaint. The court documents showcase a series of text messages and emails She’s Alive says were sent by Seaver, starting just before Parton’s death. The messages begin with threats to destroy Parton’s brand, and then after her death, depict Seaver reveling in his newfound fame and calling himself an “international arms dealer.” In one message written Sept. 1 and included in the court documents, he said: “I’m going to set up a podcast dedicated to ruining Dolly’s brand partnerships and telling the violations these people have done on us. It’s going to be great. Or f——— pay me.” Seaver also claimed that he worked for private military contractors overseas during the Iraq War and used that experience as part of these threats, according to the complaint. The messages have resulted in Parton’s trusts and estates attorney leaving and employees of She’s Alive resigning, according to the court documents. The entity has also had to hire private security for its employees, including at their homes, the documents state.

Mississippi police make second arrest in death of Black woman

Investigators seek a brief hearing Wednesday, nor several of her daughter’s where he was denied bond. friends knew Lloyd, and she third suspect According to local TV cautioned that everyone is

BY SOPHIE BATES Associated Press

JACKSON, MISS. — Police in Mississippi have arrested a second man in the death of a Black woman found hanging from a tree and have issued an arrest warrant for a third suspect. Jackson police said late Tuesday that they arrested 25-year-old Earnest Lloyd Jr. in the death of 29-year-old Tasia Fortune, whose body was found hanging behind an abandoned home in the city on Aug. 3. Like Fortune and the ﬁrst man arrested, 51-year-old Jarques Ratliff, Lloyd is Black. He appeared at a

station WLBT, investigators said witnesses directed them to Lloyd, who had allegedly had a physical altercation with Fortune days or minutes before she was killed. Police contend that Lloyd hanged Fortune with a black cable cord, and three co-defendants are also suspected of being involved in her death, the station reported. Police and the court clerk said Wednesday that they didn’t know if Lloyd has a lawyer. Fortune’s mother Christy Spivey, who attended the hearing, said afterward that she was ecstatic to see arrests made in her daughter’s death. She said neither she

innocent until proven guilty. “My family is not the only family that this is affecting,” Spivey said of the defendants’ families. “I feel for them as well. The only difference is that mine can never come back.” “I’ll never truly have peace,” she said. Ratliff was arrested in September on murder charges. He pleaded not guilty and remains jailed without bond. His lawyer, Toney Baldwin, hasn’t responded to multiple requests for comment. Police said in a statement that they issued an arrest warrant for a third suspect, but gave no details about that person’s identity or alleged link to Fortune’s death.

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8A ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune lll

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ 8A

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UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY

In deﬁant speech, Iran’s South Paciﬁc island nation announces president calls out Trump change to name Pezeshkian says his country will fight ‘until our last breath’

Nauru will return to its historical pronunciation

BY FARNOUSH AMIRI

Associated Press

UNITED NATIONS — Iran’s president said Wednesday that his people have been “victims of terrorism” by the United States, delivering a rare wartime speech at the U.N. General Assembly a day after President Donald Trump said he may “annihilate” the Islamic Republic if a deal isn’t reached soon to end the nearly seven-month war. The defiant speech by President Masoud Pezeshkian marked a striking instance of a foreign leader addressing the world body while their country is at war with the host nation. While defending his country, Pezeshkian held up large photos of the late Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and the more than 150 Iranian schoolchildren killed on the ﬁrst days of the war. “We have only defended ourselves. We are not terrorists,” Pezeshkian said at the General Assembly. “Our innocent people have been the targets of cowardly attacks and aggressions imposed upon our country. And we defended ourselves with utmost strength. America and Israel attacked us.” He added of the United States: “Yes they did hit us, but we did not bend the knee.” Toward the end of his speech, Pezeshkian called out Trump by name. “It must be understood by Mr. Trump and those who seek to bully us that we are ready for dialogue and diplomacy and negotiations without accepting the language of force,” he said. Shortly after, both U.S. and Israeli ofﬁcials blasted the speech, saying that it was hypocritical for the Islamic Republic to present itself as the victims of the world. U.S. Secretary of State Marco

BY TED ANTHONY AP national writer

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By STEFAN JEREMIAH

Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian holds an image of late Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday. Rubio told reporters: “I don’t know what standing Iran has to lecture anyone on human rights or the international system when they habitually violate it.”

A busy 24 hours for U.S.-Iran Arriving in New York under heavy security and scrutiny, Pezeshkian — who, within Iran’s political landscape, is considered a moderate politician — addressed world leaders a day after Trump used the same stage to mull whether to massively escalate a war that has already spiraled out of control. “I have a big decision to make,” Trump said in his wide-ranging address Tuesday. “Will a deal be made with Iran that lets them rebuild and create a far greater country than it ever was before, maybe one of the greatest in the Middle East or even the world. Or do I annihilate the Islamic Republic and do it quickly, never giving them a chance to kill and destroy people and countries again?” Hours after those stunning threats, Trump told reporters that his chief envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, met for about

three hours with the Iranian officials on the sidelines of the annual gathering. But he offered few details about how the discussions transpired or the substance of the exchange. “It was a very good meeting,” Trump said. The president later added that the Iranian officials were “not the highest level, but it’s something.” Also on Tuesday, Rubio said Trump is open to meeting with Pezeshkian while he’s in New York. But Tehran downplayed Tuesday’s unscheduled exchange, which were the first indirect talks between U.S. and Iranian officials since a June ceasefire unraveled. Esmail Baghaei, an Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, maintained the country’s negotiating position in talks with U.S. officials, demanding that Washington end its blockade of Iranian ports and release frozen Iranian assets, Baghaei said the talks — conducted indirectly through Qatari mediators — were “not anything new.” Rubio echoed that sentiment Wednesday, saying that “it was a continuation of conversations that have occurred in the past.”

Zelenskyy urges leaders to keep impeding Russia’s war efforts BY EDITH M. LEDERER and JENNIFER PELTZ Associated Press

UNITED NATIONS — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told world leaders Wednesday that Vladimir Putin is the only obstacle to ending “the ridiculous and never-ending war,” and he urged nations large and small to pressure the Russian president for peace by choking the country’s revenues and impeding its war efforts. “Our target is Russia’s ability to ﬁnance this war, to drag it out, to make it more brutal and more destructive,” Zelenskyy told the U.N. General Assembly’s annual global gathering. “Russia’s finances and Russia’s production are what must be stopped if Putin is to be stopped.” When Russia gets money from trade, “it always says no to diplomacy,” Zelenskyy argued, “so Russia’s revenues must remain a target.” Earlier Wednesday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov clashed with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and her country’s European supporters at a U.N. Security Council meeting, and Lavrov and U.S.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio met on the assembly sidelines and discussed the war. Rubio later told reporters that Russia and Ukraine have expressed interest in a limited ceaseﬁre that would halt attacks on grain shipments — both countries are major exporters — and on each country’s energy sectors, which have been targeted in escalating drone and missile attacks. Rubio said reaching even a partial deal would be difﬁcult but worthwhile, noting that Zelenskyy has publicly endorsed such a plan. The United States would be willing to help make it happen, Rubio said. Russia’s Foreign Ministry made no mention of a partial deal on grain shipments in a statement after the LavrovRubio meeting. The statement reiterated that the root causes of what it calls its “special military operation” must be addressed. At the Security Council, Lavrov said Russia will not “pause” its military action, claiming Europe would use it to “pump” Ukraine with weapons. He also made no mention of any kind of grain and energy deal, called Ukraine’s government “ter-

rorists,” and Moscow’s military operation aims to ensure Russia’s security and the rights of Russian speakers. Lavrov is due to address the General Assembly on Saturday. Zelenskyy cast doubt on Russia’s interest in ending the fighting. “Something always seems to stop Putin from saying, ‘That’s it. Enough. Peace,’ ” Zelenskyy said. “Can you even imagine him without war? He is ‘patient zero’, the one from whom this idea of war keeps spreading further.” “The more freedom Putin has to act, the more dangerous the world becomes for everyone else,” the Ukrainian president warned. The war has reverberated across the planet — with global repercussions for fuel, fertilizer and grain shipments — and for geopolitics, widening divisions between Russia and the West. Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, expecting to take the capital, Kyiv, in a week. But Ukraine rallied to defend its sovereignty, and the conﬂict has dragged on, with front-line positions in eastern and southern Ukraine largely unchanged since last year.

Tech leaders recommend regulations for artiﬁcial intelligence technology BY SETH BORENSTEIN and JENNIFER PELTZ Associated Press

UNITED NATIONS — The heads of major artificial intelligence ﬁrms pleaded with the United Nations on Wednesday to save the world or at least its people — by somehow regulating the fast-expanding technology that they have been designing.

“If managed poorly, I even believe AI could be a risk to humanity as a whole,” said Dario Amodei, chief executive officer of Anthropic. And from his competitor Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, came this assessment: “We could lose control of the future to AI.” Both said the countries of the world, through the U.N. Security Council, where they testified Wednesday,

have to set safeguards of some kind to prevent the technology from getting too powerful to rein in. They also called for the world to make sure that the power of AI isn’t concentrated in one company or country. They also touted the beneﬁts of the technology for bettering humanity and what Altman called “giving people more power over their own lives.”

NEW YORK — His voice forceful and proud, he rose in front of the world’s largest gathering of leaders on behalf of his nation and announced that he had something important to say. The tiny South Pacific island nation of Nauru, its president said, had altered its name — and reclaimed its heritage in the process. “I have traveled far,” David Adeang said Tuesday at the United Nations. What was known to the world for many years as Nauru, Adeang said, was returning to the name and pronunciation of its past: Naoero. “There are moments in the life of a nation when its people are called to remember who they have always been,” Adeang said in his speech at the U.N. General Assembly in New York. “This is such a moment for us.” Though the names are similar and, in essence, the same word, the shift in spelling and pronunciation represents the nation’s effort to recast — rebrand, even — itself for its own people as much as for the outside world. He called it not a change but an effort to “afﬁrm a truth.” “For many years, the world has known our country as Nauru. Nauru is how our name sounded to those who found it hard to say, and the world kept it,” Adeang said. “But it is not the name our people used among themselves.” The nation, an eight-squaremile island with about 12,000 people, became independent in 1968 after longtime colonial rule under the United Kingdom, New

Zealand, Australia and Germany. It announced the renaming in August after signaling its intent in February. The country’s international code is changing from NRU to NRO and its people will be known as dei-Naoero instead of Nauruan. Commonly known abroad by the pronunciation of Now-roo, the new name is spoken as Now-ero. Across the past century, other nations have renamed themselves or tweaked their names for various reasons, from modernization to rejection of colonialism. The African nation of Eswatini changed its name from Swaziland in 2018. In Africa, Dahomey became Benin after a 1975 coup and Rhodesia became Zimbabwe in 1980 after shedding colonial rule. Siam became Thailand in 1939 to foster ethnic unity and shed a foreign label. Turkey, meanwhile, has been officially named Turkiye since 1920 but requested in 2022 that the United Nations use the spelling and pronunciation as its name in English as well — in part to avoid confusion by underscoring that the bird wasn’t the word. The list goes on. Persia became Iran. Burma became Myanmar. Upper Volta is now Burkina Faso, Gold Coast is Ghana and Ceylon is Sri Lanka. A name, obviously, is a pivotal and intimate expression of a nation’s identity on any stage, domestic or international. Adeang’s remarks Tuesday reﬂected this as he carefully pronounced the name to differentiate it from its former pronunciation. “We do not make this choice to erase our past. We make it because we honor it,” he said. “That name carries the memory of our ancestors, our language, and our identity. It has been there all along. Never lost, never absent. Today, we restore Naoero.”

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1bN

Nuclear power startup coming to Bywater Company to build, operate small modular reactors

BY RICH COLLINS

leans’ Bywater neighborhood. The 1-year-old company, which plans to build and operate small modular reactor power plants, will spend more than $8 million transforming an existing 18,500-square-foot industrial facility at 3333 Chartres St. into ofﬁce space, a light fabrication shop and

Staff writer

Nuclear power startup Applied Atomics, whose co-founders include a pair of former SpaceX engineers, announced Wednesday it is establishing its headquarters and training center in New Or-

training center. The venture, which has raised $12 million over the past year, also has a “design and test studio” in Los Angeles. Regional economic developers are celebrating the announcement as evidence that their efforts to bring more high-tech manufac-

turing and low-carbon energy startups to the state are bearing fruit. It comes a week after an announcement that Australian battery materials company Sicona is also establishing its U.S. base of operations in the city. Small modular reactors are compact nuclear power plants that proponents say could be located behind the fence lines of large industrial facilities to help meet

their huge energy needs. Though there are a few active small modular reactors in other countries, there are no commercial ones in use in the U.S. Applied Atomics co-founder and CEO Ben Kellie said he and his partners chose Louisiana because of its industrial workforce, ample supply chain and access to

ä See STARTUP, page 2B

Hi-Ho Lounge returning to St. Claude Legendary venue back after No Dice closes

BY KASEY BUBNASH Staff writer

Nearly two years after Hi-Ho Lounge closed its doors on Halloween 2024, the legendary New Orleans corner bar and music venue will return to its original location on St. Claude Avenue this week under new independent ownership. The new owners, Mike Davis and Melissa Politte, announced the Hi-Ho’s return Tuesday morning, promising the restoration of the bar’s original form as a community-centered neighborhood space. “We’ve been looking for what we wanted to do,” Politte said, “and this opportunity presented itself, and we were just so excited to have the ability to bring the Hi-Ho back.” The owners said they’re teaming up with the Krewe of Dolly on Friday to host a soft opening at the 2239 St. Claude Ave. bar in celebration of Dolly Parton’s 9-to-5 Day. The event, dubbed the Dolly After Dark Party, will follow the Krewe of Dolly’s second-line and stop at Blue Nile. Doors open at 8 p.m., and a portion of the proceeds will go to Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, giving locals a chance to get back inside the bar for a good cause, owners said. After that, the venue’s ofﬁcial opening and weekly lineup will start on Oct. 1, featuring programming like “Locals’

KEEPING IT CLEAN

ABOVE: Kimberly Frank and Joey Cambre collect litter and invasive plants along a lagoon edge on the north side of New Orleans City Park on Tuesday. The volunteer cleanup was City Park Conservancy’s fourth as part of Keep Louisiana Beautiful’s Love Our Waterways initiative, a statewide effort focused on removing litter from Louisiana’s waterways. Led by LOOP NOLA, volunteers in canoes and on the shore removed litter and invasive plants from lagoons surrounding Couturie Forest and Scout Island. RIGHT: Emily Mohler removes litter near the water’s edge of a lagoon near Scout Island.

ä See HI-HO, page 2B

STAFF PHOTOS By BRETT DUKE

Man accused of stealing $363K from Marrero clinic He set system to overpay himself, police say

BY MICHELLE HUNTER Staff writer

Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office investigators arrested a New Orleans man accused of stealing more than $363,000

from a Marrero medical clinic where he worked as the ofﬁce manager. Leon Tilton Jr., 71, of New Orleans, was booked Monday with theft valued over $25,000. He is accused of stealing from Westbank Medical & Walk-In Clinic in Marrero and another medical office located in New Orleans through fraudulent payroll practices, according to the Sheriff’s Ofﬁce. Tilton could

not be reached for comment Wednesday. The owner of the medical offices reached out to the Sheriff’s Office in June 2025 to file a complaint. As the office manager, Tilton had handled supplies and payroll for the businesses since January 2017, according to authorities. During his tenure, Tilton had never given the owner access to payroll records. He’d never giv-

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en a reason for the denial. But in May 2024, Tilton had to ﬁnally allow payroll access while he was out on vacation, the Sheriff’s Ofﬁce said. The owner took the opportunity to review previous payroll records and realized Tilton was overpaying himself, allegedly submitting pay documents with unapproved on-call and overtime

ä See CLINIC, page 3B

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2B ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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Harvey firefighters rescue kittens from ceiling Sounds reveal litter of five newborns

BY MICHELLE HUNTER Staff writer

Firefighters made an extrication of the feline kind over the weekend when they rescued a litter of kittens from the ceiling of a Harvey townhouse. Residents in the 1000 block of Tallowtree Lane contacted Harvey Volunteer Fire Company No. 2 for help after hearing soft scratching and other “kitten” noises inside the kitchen walls on Saturday morning, according to Assistant Chief Michael McAuliffe. Firefighters arrived and determined there were cats inside a drywalled void space above the kitchen counter. They used a special saw to carefully cut through the drywall, and a firefighter used a flashlight to peer inside. “They saw it was newborn kittens,” McAullife said. The mother cat was not there, but firefighters determined she’d gained access to the space through a next-door apartment that was under construction with open walls, he said.

themselves on animal rescues. “We’ve seen everything from animals stuck on top of a building to being trapped in a drain underneath, and now, within a building,” McAuliffe said. It’s not unusual to come across an unattended kitten or even a litter that seem to be all by themselves. But Jefferson Protection Animal Welfare Services Director Michelle Brignac urged people to wait before jumping to the rescue. “Remove the kittens only if they are in immediate or grave danger or if they appear very sickly or ill,” she said. Mother cats often leave their kittens alone for several hours while looking for food. She could also be in the process of moving the little ones to a new location, according to Brignac. “Removing very young kittens from mama cat greatly reduces their chances of survival,” BriPROVIDED PHOTO By HARVEy VOLUNTEER FIRE COMPANy NO. 2 gnac said. It’s best to just watch and wait Firefighters with the Harvey Volunteer Fire Company No. 2 rescued five from a distance of at least 35 feet newborn kittens from the ceiling of a townhouse on Tallowtree Lane in since mother cats may not return Harvey on Saturday. until they no longer sense a human presence, according to BriConcerned about their safety — firefighters gently removed the gnac. including from any electrical wir- kittens, according to McAuliffe, Animal advocates also discouring they might encounter — the whose crews occasionally find age unnecessary rescues of new-

Disgraced N.O. bartender accused of selling fentanyl Police say they found Steinvorth with multiple drugs

BY KASEY BUBNASH and MATT BRUCE Staff writers

A once celebrated New Orleans bartender who fell from grace when he was accused of raping a woman 10 years ago was arrested this month on a slew of drug charges, including possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, according to court records. Matthew Steinvorth, 42, was arrested Sept. 11 and jailed on three felony and five misdemeanor counts related to the possession of marijuana, cocaine, steroids and fentanyl after New Orleans Police Department officers said they found him with drugs at a house near City Park. Officers began investigating the St. Peter Street house earlier this month after receiving a CrimeStoppers tip that Steinvorth was selling cocaine and marijuana there, NOPD officer David Miceli wrote in an arrest affidavit. Officers were surveilling the

house the morning of Sept. 11 when a man in a truck stopped by for about 10 minutes and then left with a plastic shopping bag in hand, according to the report. Miceli said he followed the truck, eventually stopping the man for not wearing a seat belt in the 100 block of Metairie Road. Miceli wrote that he smelled marijuana during the traffic stop, and the man admitted to carrying about a half-pound of illegal marijuana in a bag in the rear seat of the car. After a search warrant was approved, Miceli found several bags of marijuana, THC gummies, joints and two plastic bags filled with cocaine in the truck, drugs the man allegedly told officers he had purchased from the St. Peter Street house for about $800. The man was arrested and jailed on cocaine and marijuana possession counts. Miceli and other officers with NOPD and the Louisiana State Police searched the St. Peter house at 5:15 p.m. that day after a search warrant was approved. Authorities found a bag containing fentanyl, several bags of marijuana, hallucinogenic mushrooms, two dozen bags of THC gummies, a used vial containing

steroids, over $2,000 and other drug paraphernalia, according to the report. Police arrested Steinvorth at the house minutes later, though his home address is listed in court documents as another house several blocks away. Steinvorth bailed out on a $40,000 bond Sept. 13 and is being assessed for a pretrial intervention program run by the Criminal District Court. His next hearing his scheduled for Nov. 11. More than a decade before his latest arrest, Steinvorth was frequently the subject of acclaim for his work at the Roosevelt Hotel’s historic Sazerac Bar, named one of the city’s “most imaginative bartenders” in a 2015 contest and quoted on the New Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau website as the self-described “face of the Sazerac Bar.” He was featured heavily in a local article about the bar’s storied history, and a New York Times article about drinking culture in New Orleans featured a photo of Steinvorth shaking cocktails in March 2016. But two months later, Steinvorth was arrested and booked on a count of second-degree rape after a woman he met at Sazerac

STARTUP

Email Kasey Bubnash at kasey. bubnash@theadvocate.com.

A rendering depicts a small modular reactor from Applied Atomics.

Continued from page 1B the Mississippi River. Its potential to provide customers is another draw. “Forty percent of the nation’s chemical and industrial production ﬂows through Louisiana, so it has massive power demand,” the CEO said during a phone interview Tuesday. “It’s a great location strategically and a really enjoyable place to be.” Applied Atomics has had a presence in the city for several months already because of its relationship with Newlab, the Brooklyn-based technology startup accelerator that’s building an innovation hub on the site of the former abandoned Navy complex in Bywater, a few blocks from Applied Atomic’s new location. Some of the startup’s employees have been working in Newlab’s temporary facility in the Lower Garden District, but that will change by next year, when both entities’ new workspaces will be completed. Kellie said the company plans to create more than 40 jobs for engineers, welders, mechanics, electricians, technicians and office staff with an average annual salary of $160,000 once its Bywater campus is running at full capacity. He expects the ofﬁce to be ready to move in before the end of the year, and training infrastructure — including a model of the company’s planned small modular reactors — to come online next year. The model will be used to show regulators how Applied Atomic’s designs will work, but there will never be any radioactive material on site, Kellie said. “This is not a nuclear power generation site, and no radioactive materials will be handled, processed or stored at the facility,” a spokesperson wrote in a prepared statement on Wednesday.

Bar accused him of drugging and raping her. Police at the time said they identified Steinvorth as a suspect in the case from a phone number left on the woman’s phone, and his photo appeared to match surveillance video from inside the bar that night. In 2017, the state amended Steinvorth’s charge to a lesser count of third-degree rape, then dropped the charge entirely in 2021 after the alleged victim in the case died. The Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Ofﬁce and Hilton, which manages the Roosevelt, did not respond to requests for comment. The rape case wasn’t Steinvorth’s ﬁrst run-in with the law. He was charged with sexual battery in 2011 after a woman said he stripped down and tried to force himself on her on a night shortly before Mardi Gras after she’d gone home with his friend. The woman said she’d had to scratch and scream her way free. An Orleans Parish jury acquitted Steinvorth of sexual battery in March 2012 but found him guilty of simple battery in the case.

PROVIDED RENDERING

PROVIDED PHOTO

Ben Kellie, co-founder and CEO of Applied Atomics, speaks at the Louisiana Nuclear Strategy and Supply Chain summit at the Windsor Court Hotel on April 29.

Renewed nuclear power interest Applied Atomic’s arrival in New Orleans comes after Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry launched Louisiana’s nuclear strategic framework earlier this year to guide investment, workforce development and supply chain growth in the sector. The Trump Administration is also focusing on simplifying regulations to speed up and lower the cost of creating more nuclear power plants nationwide as it hopes to boost U.S. nuclear capacity from

about 100 gigawatts today to 400 gigawatts by 2050. “Nuclear power is a really important part of a national clean energy strategy because it’s very powerful, not dependent on weather, and produces emissions comparable to solar and wind,” said Salem Habte, director of business development at Greater New Orleans Inc., the economic development nonproﬁt that helped lure Applied Atomics to the city. “The problem is it takes a long time to build out, and it’s very expensive.” Critics say while the technology has a low carbon footprint, serious questions remain about the safe disposal of nuclear waste. For decades, small modular reactors have been touted by some as a way to streamline and speed up deployment of nuclear energy. To date, none has been built. Applied Atomics, which has many competitors in this investment-heavy space, hopes to change that by using existing nuclear technology in new ways to shave off years required for research and regulatory approval. Its partnership with Virginiabased BWXT, an established nuclear technology and manufacturing company, was documented in a Washington Post story earlier this year.

“Our play is that we’re using tech that already works and is already proven and well understood,” Kellie said. The company’s modular plants will likely cost $500 million to $1 billion, depending on the size. Kellie said Applied Atomics is close to announcing a deal to build its first plant. Before that happens, though, the company’s engineers will focus on creating a nonworking prototype in Bywater, just a few feet from the Mississippi River levee, steps away from several popular bars and restaurants, and around the corner from a cafe called, coincidentally, Applied Arts Coffee. The complex it will call home has been used over the years for seafood processing, lumber storage and the distribution of molasses and syrup. Its most recent tenant was maritime company Turn Services, which has several other Greater New Orleans locations. Interior buildout of the offices, control room and fabrication shop has begun and is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The outdoor training system is expected to come online in the first quarter of next year. Email Rich Collins at rich. collins@theadvocate.com.

born kittens because they require weeks of demanding care before they reach an adoptable age, taking up shelter space in the meantime. Newborn kittens must be fed every two to four hours, around the clock, including overnight, Brignac said. Young kittens also can’t eliminate just yet, so fosters must help things along with a warm, damp cloth while routinely monitoring for any signs of illness. Such care is difficult for JPAWS alone, according to Brignac, who said the organization is grateful for their bottle-feeding fosters. The daughter of a Harvey firefighter who is also a volunteer at JPAWS will foster the kittens and bottle feed them until they reach an adoptable age. The animal shelter welcomes any who would like to volunteer for be a bottle-feeding foster. The shelter will provide everything needed, supplies and instructions. “(Fosters) supply all the love and support to the kittens in need,” Brignac said. For more information about volunteering or fostering with JPWAS, visit its website www. jeffparish.gov/1368/JeffersonProtection-Animal-Welfare-Serv.

HI-HO

Continued from page 1B Mondays,” with free red beans and rice, and “Game Day Sundays,” with dedicated drink specials, live local brass bands and indie rock performances. DJ Soul Sister is also slated to bring her long-running HUSTLE! party back to the Hi-Ho Lounge on Halloween. Both Davis and Politte, who live in the Treme with their three French bulldogs, Louie, Layla and Swayze, have fond memories of long nights spent drinking and enjoying local bands at the Hi-Ho. It quickly became one of their favorite spots when Politte, who ran a large music venue in St. Louis, moved to New Orleans to be with Davis, who is originally from Georgia, roughly 10 years ago. “Overall it was just a great time in terms of community and how it made me feel about New Orleans in general,” he said. “To me Hi-Ho Lounge at the time was New Orleans.” The bar’s closure in 2024 was a tough blow at a time when several other classics had also shuttered, Davis said. Hi-Ho’s return follows the Sept. 13 closure of No Dice after a little less than two years in the St. Claude Ave. space. No Dice owners have not responded to requests for comment, but thanked their customers and employees in a post announcing the closure on social media. “The last two years have been life changing, challenging, and unforgettable,” the post read. “You walk away from every chapter in life with something to hold onto, and this one is the people. To our regulars, the bands, the block, our staff, thank you.” As promised, Davis and Politte said all shows that were previously scheduled at the venue through No Dice will be honored at Hi-Ho in coming months. (Musicians interested in performing at the HiHo can contact the new owners at booking@hiholoungenola.com.) The original Hi-Ho sign is already back up hanging above the stage, plans for a return to the outer space-themed mural that once decorated the bar’s exterior are in the works, and Davis and Politte said they have been in touch with the Hi-Ho’s original owners to ensure the new rendition has a similar feel and atmosphere. John Hartsock and Lori Bernard have owned the St. Claude Avenue building since 2006, when they invested in major renovations in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, cleaning it out and adding a new sound system and high-end lighting rig. “I’m very happy to remove the Hi-Ho Lounge off of the ‘Ain’t dere no more!’ list,” Hartsock said Tuesday. Email Kasey Bubnash at kasey. bubnash@theadvocate.com.

LOTTERY

TUESDAY, SEPT. 22, 2026 PICK 3: 6-5-4 PICK 4: 8-7-6-3 PICK 5: 5-3-6-3-3 MEGA MILLIONS: 7-13-26-37-68 MEGA BALL: 8 Unofficial notification, keep your tickets.

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SpaceX begins hiring Pollyana for Louisiana project Brooks, Carter, Iris New Orleans Area Deaths

Four positions for Vermilion spaceport now open

BY CLAIRE TAYLOR Staff writer

This individual will be part of the launch infrastructure team, working with a group of elite engineers across multiple disciplines, the application states, to “design, build and activate a second orbital launch pad and ancillary infrastructure that will further enable orbital launch capability” for what SpaceX describes as the world’s most powerful rocket, Starship. The government affairs manager, who will lead external affairs for SpaceX, will be required to live in or near Vermilion Parish. This individual will work on local and state government relations, community and business relations and educational outreach, according to the listing. The final position is for a senior counsel for real estate and infrastructure. The position is based in Pecan Island and requires the individual to be on-site, the application states. The senior counsel will support development of Starbase, the SpaceX complex to be constructed in Vermilion Parish, as well as related spaceport, production and infrastructure programs. They will lead legal work for the site, including real estate and land-use documents, including purchases, sales, leases, easements, surface use agreements and rights-of-way. Two weeks ago, an opening for an external affairs manager popped up on the SpaceX website but was quickly removed. The company did not reply to a request for comment at that time. One Acadiana officials announced last week the creation of an online resource hub for residents and businesses seeking information regarding the SpaceX project in Vermilion Parish. The site, oneacadiana. com/spacex, will offer key project details, anticipated timelines, frequently asked questions and resources for businesses interested in becoming suppliers for SpaceX. Louisiana Economic Development also has links on its website to apply for jobs and for businesses seeking a contract for the project at www.opportunitylouisiana. gov/spacex.

Elon Musk’s SpaceX has started the hiring process for the massive spaceport planned for Vermilion Parish near Pecan Island. On Aug. 25, Gov. Jeff Landry, along with other officials and SpaceX representatives, announced plans to build a $100 billion rocket launch and recovery facility along a stretch of the Gulf Coast about 45 miles southwest of Lafayette. SpaceX acquired around 125,000 acres of land in Vermilion Parish as part of the recent settlement of a lawsuit against ExxonMobil over the destruction of coastal wetlands. The Vermilion Parish spaceport is expected to include five launch pads and create at least 3,000 jobs. The site is expected to be able to launch Starship, which the company calls the most powerful rocket in the world. Four weeks after the announcement, the company is seeking applicants for four positions. The following job openings were posted as of Tuesday morning on the SpaceX website: n Senior construction project manager (Starship infrastructure) n Civil engineer, land development (Starbase infrastructure) n Government affairs manager n Senior counsel, real estate and infrastructure. The senior construction project manager will be based in Starbase, Texas — the Brownsville/South Padre Island area — until early 2027, when they will be required to relocate to Louisiana, according to the application. They will coordinate all on-site construction activities and supervise all field personnel, completing the project on schedule and within budget, according to the listing. The civil engineer for land development will also be based in the Brownsville/South Padre Island area at Starbase, Texas, until they will be required Email Claire Taylor at to relocate to Louisiana in ctaylor@theadvocate. early 2027. com.

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according to a Sheriff’s Ofﬁce report. Detectives obtained a warrant for Tilton’s arrest. No information was available Wednesday about why so much time passed between the complaint’s ﬁling and Tilton’s arrest. He was booked into the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center in Gretna and released the next day on a $250,000 bond.

hours. The owner told investigators that only doctors were allowed to collect oncall and overtime pay, and Tilton was not a doctor. Tilton received a total of $363,109 in fraudulent pay, ofﬁcials said. The owner ﬁred Tilton in July 2024 but didn’t report the theft for another year Email Michelle Hunter at because of “legal advice mhunter@theadvocate. and business negotiations,” com.

Hardy, Theodore Harris, Joseph Johnson, Elouise Marshall Johnson, Deborah McDermott, Michael Mo, Wayne Perez, Horace Preaus, Eugene

E Jefferson Richardson FH Carter, Iris

New Orleans Boyd Family Marshall Johnson, Deborah

Something for everyone at the T-P Store!

STORE.NOLA.COM

Hardy, Theodore

DW Rhodes Harris, Joseph Lake Lawn Metairie Preaus, Eugene

West Bank Davis Mortuary Brooks, Pollyana Mothe Perez, Horace

Obituaries Brooks, Pollyana Yates

Theodore "Sticks" Hardy passed September 20, 2026, after a courageous year-long battle following a tragic accident. Father of Demorea Hardy Harper (James III) & Tanya Hardy Blanchard (Gary); grandfather of Jourdan J. Harper, James Harper IV, Ahmad J. Blanchard & Nia Rose Blanchard. Brother of Larry Hardy Sr. (Betty) & Gail Hardy, as well as a host of nieces and nephews. Celebration of Life September 24, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., CharbonnetLabat-Glapion. Charbonnet Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Harris, Joseph Anthony

Pollyana Yates Brooks entered eternal rest at Ochsner Medical Center Jeff Highway on Wednesday September 16, 2026, at the age of 65. She was a native of New Orleans, LA and a resident of Marrero, LA. Beloved wife of John A. Brooks, Jr. Devoted mother of John A. Brooks, III, Ashleigh E. Brooks, Sr., and Kelsey Brooks Blake. Daughter of the late Ashley M. Yates, Sr. and Gertrude Price Yates. Sister of Paul Davis, Doris Mosbey, and the late Diane Davis, Ray Davis, and William Davis, III. Pollyana is also survived by 5 grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends. Relatives and friends of the family also pastors, officers, and members of New Hope Baptist Church, and neighboring churches are invited to attend the Celebration of Life at New Hope Baptist Church, 1807 Rev. John Raphael Jr. Way, New Orleans, LA on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 10:00 am. Pastor Jaamal Weathersby officiating. Visitation will begin at 8:30a.m. until the time the above named church. Interment: Westlawn Cemetery-Gretna, LA. Arrangements by Davis Mortuary Service 230 Monroe St. Gretna, LA. To view and sign the guestbook, please go to www.da vismortuaryservice.com.

Carter, Iris B.

Mugs, shirts, hats, posters, books.

Corliss Johnson (Clever), Orlanda Daniels, Mark Hawkins (Beliota), Lisa Wyatt, Lenell Wyatt, Verena Stewart, Nichelle Ingram, and Shane Richard. Also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Preceded in death by parents Birthena Hawkins and Hardin Richard, son Niron Butler, siblings Deborah Scott (Harry), Gloria Mealey Webber (Harry), Jacqueline Bradley, Melvin Richard, Spencer Lee, and Hardin Richard Jr. Service at Greater Good Hope B.C., 47 Cathy St., Norco, LA on Friday, September 25, 2026. Viewing is from 9-11am, Service starts at 11am. Officiating Pastor Tyrone Scott. Interment: Providence Memorial Park & Mausoleum, Metairie, LA. Service entrusted to Richardson Funeral Home of Jefferson, River Ridge, LA. www.richardsonfunera lhomeofjefferson.com

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ 3B Johnson, Elouise Lacey

Elouise Lacey Johnson, 80, of New Orleans, Louisiana passed away peacefully on September 17, 2026. Born October 18, 1945, in New Orleans to the late Walter and Susie Brady. Elouise attended L.B. Landry High School, SUNO, University of Southern California, and L.A. Southwest College, earning a degree in Early Childhood Development.

McDermott, Michael Edward

Preceded in death by parents, Walter and Susie Brady and stepfather, Leslie Jackson ; son, Aaron Jones; daughter, Lisa Williams; siblings Mauleen Smith, Harold Brady, Elizabeth Gaddis; and grandson, Kwame Addison. She is survived by her husband, Joseph Johnson; children, Charles Jones, Jr. and Estelle Robinson; siblings, Marion(Paul), Gwendolyn(Roy), Shelia(Robert), and Joan; four sisters-in-law; grandchildren, Lashawndra (Laylah) Jones, Dero, Trevone, Kwesi, Shanay, Charles, Shawntay, Stanley, and Tay; 16 greatgrandchildren; godchild, Susie Harrison; and a host of family and friends. A Celebration of Life service will be held Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 10am (viewing 9am -10am), True Believers Baptist Church, 2621 Behrman Hwy, New Orleans, LA 70114. Bishop Valarie Taylor, founder. Officiant, Elder Raney Antoine, Sr., New Life Family Worship Center. Interment at Restlawn Park Cemetery and Mausoleum, 3540 US-90, Avondale, LA 70094. Services entrusted to Robinson Family Funeral Home, 9611 Highway 23, Belle Chasse, LA 70037.

Marshall Johnson, Deborah Elaine

On Friday, August 28, 2026, Joseph A. Harris, Sr. was called home to be with the Lord. He was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1930 to the late Jesse and Thelma Harris. Joseph proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War as a Combat Medical Officer and Paratrooper. He also served two years in the United States Air Force. Throughout his life, Joseph worked as a driver for White Fleet Cab and McClean Trucking before beginning a dedicated 40year career with the United States Postal Service. Joseph leaves to cherish his memory his daughter, Tessie; sons, Joseph, Pedro, Gary, Tyronne, Jessie, and Noel; along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and Thelma Harris; his wife, Lorraine; three daughters, Gail, Dionne, and Easterlynn; sisters, Elsie, Ursula, and Germaine; and brothers, Lionel, Rudolph, and Vernon. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend a Funeral Service at Duplain W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave. New Orleans, Louisiana 70125 on Friday, September 25, 2026 at 10:00am. Visitation will begin at 9:00am. Interment: Mount Olivet Cemetery. Arrangements entrusted to D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, New Orleans, Louisiana. Please visit www.rhodesfuneral.com to sign the online guestbook.

Haylynn Johnson; sisters, Cynthia and Sheryl Marshall; goddaughter and niece, Deveney Marshall; and a host of relatives and friends. Services will be held Friday, September 25, 2026, at Bethany United Methodist Church, 4533 Mendez St., New Orleans, LA 70126. Visitation begins at 10:30 a.m., with service at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Rev. Eugene M. Boger. Guestbook Online: www.an ewtraditionbegins.com (504)282-0600. Linear Brooks Boyd and Donavin D. Boyd Owners/Funeral Directors.

Deborah Elaine Marshall Johnson, a lifelong New Orleanian, was born December 24, 1951, to the late Alton and Dorothy Marshall. She peacefully entered eternal rest on August 5, 2026, at age 74. A graduate of Joseph S. Clark Senior High School, Deborah earned her Bachelor of Social Work from Southern University at New Orleans and pursued graduate studies in counseling at Xavier University of Louisiana. She devoted many years of service to the Department of Children and Family Services. For more than 30 years, Deborah faithfully served at Bethany United Methodist Church. A woman of deep faith, generosity, and compassion, she was also a gifted poet and writer. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband of 46 years, George R. Johnson; children, Trenelle and Ariel Johnson; bonus son, Tyrone Jones; grandchildren, Jaylen Wooten, Kayden Wooten, and

Michael Edward McDermott, 51, of New Orleans LA passed away September 9, 2026 after a short bout with cancer. Born in New York City on July 26, 1975, he was raised in Rye NY and River Ridge LA and spent most of his adult life living in the French Quarter and Tremé. He graduated from Jesuit High School and attended University of New Orleans, where he studied Microbiology. He put his education to good use working in a variety of research labs and facilities, which provided many interesting stories he loved to share. He then went on to work at different establishments in the French Quarter area including an art gallery on Royal St., Preservation Hall where he got to enjoy music and spend time with musicians, and Cake Cafe where he got to utilize his cooking and baking skills until its closure. He eventually found his place behind the counter at local favorite coffee shops around the city, where many people got to know and love him as a barista. Michael "Mike" loved people and animals alike and had a hearty laugh many will remember fondly, along with his quirky sense of humor and how he loved to tell a good story. He is preceded in death by grandparents Edward Joseph McDermott II and Marie Balzarini McDermott of Brooklyn NY, Vincent Pelstring and Cleon Hiltz Pelstring of Covington KY, aunt Carolyn Pelstring Gastright and uncle Dr. Mark Pelstring. Survivors include parents Edward Joseph McDermott III and Linda Pelstring McDermott, "little sister" Meghan Elizabeth McDermott, aunt Nancy Pelstring Connelly, and many cousins and second-cousins. A mass will be held in his honor September 26 at 12pm (visitation at 11am) at St. Matthew the Apostle in River Ridge, and a celebration of life and second line will be held November 14 at 2pm at Old Road Coffee in Tremé with Kinfolk Brass Band. Donations in honor of Michael can be made to

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How to place a Memorial Ad Iris B. Carter entered eternal rest on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at the age of 74. She leaves to cherish her memories with her children Norman Butler Jr. (Ayanna) and Nia Butler, grandchildren, Makeda Butler and Simone Butler, siblings Clyde Brown Sr. (Marlene), Emmerette Watson, Aaron Brown (Darlene), Beverly Brown,

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.nola.com, click submit an obituary and select create a memoriam.

4B ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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OPINION N O L A.C O M/opinions

OUR VIEWS

Moreno’s first budget lays out the hard choices facing N.O. We don’t like the idea of cutting services that are popular and productive. Nobody does — and that, New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno is quick to say, includes her. Yet the budget Moreno proposed to the New Orleans City Council Tuesday, which cuts about $77 million from this year’s spending total, represents the reality that city leaders face as they climb out of the deep financial hole that opened beneath them last year. There will be pain, as Chief Administrative Officer Joe Giarrusso has said. Among the specific line items slated for elimination are the low-barrier homeless shelter, cleanup after Carnival parades, a summer youth jobs program and home visits for new mothers. Still, we give the new administration credit for taking a number of creative steps to minimize the impact, and for being transparent about the trade-off between what government can do and what it can pay for. In a briefing ahead of her presentation this week, Moreno offered one bit of good news: After 2027, things should stabilize — albeit at levels that are closer to where they were before the pandemic, when an influx of federal money allowed former Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s administration to spend freely, and ultimately unsustainably. “We have to balance two realities: The people of New Orleans deserve better city services, but we also have to respect how difficult it is for people to pay more,” Moreno said. The $763 million proposed budget factors in a $100 million shortfall compared to this year, when the administration tapped into several one-time revenue streams but still made deep cuts, including furloughs of city workers. The plan for next year ends furloughs — although the budget does eliminate some jobs entirely, both filled and vacant. It does not take into account the possibility of at least some new revenue, if the council decides to roll some millages forward or to raise fees, including on short-term rentals. Even then, officials say cuts would be reduced but not eliminated. Those cuts are not as deep as they might have been. The administration has scoured the rules and found extra capacity in the capital budget and under grants to cover some services previously paid for in the general fund. Moreno also hopes partner agencies, nonprofits and businesses with aligned missions might step up to save some of the programs on the chopping block. We encourage those who are able to consider doing so. The council now has a little more than two months to hold hearings with various departments and decide whether to try to live within current means or raise revenue from a cashstrapped populace already stinging from the recently increased sanitation fee. We urge them to make the most of this period, dive deep into the numbers, work with the administration and think about setting the city up not just for next year but for the future. Because how New Orleans emerges from the crisis will be the ultimate test of their stewardship.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ARE WELCOME. HERE ARE OUR GUIDELINES: Letters are published

identifying name, occupation and/or title and the writer’s city of residence. The Advocate | The Times-Picayune require a street address and phone number for verification purposes, but that information is not published. Letters are not to exceed 300 words. Letters to the Editor, The Advocate, P.O. Box 588, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-0588, or email letters@ theadvocate.com.

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YOUR VIEWS

Why are taxpayers subsidizing the Convention Center’s Omni hotel?

Take industrial revolution as a warning, not an inspiration Rich Lowry takes an interesting approach to convincing people of the foolishness of opposing data centers (“What if factories had gotten the data center treatment?” Sept. 10). To show that progress always has a downside, he points to the unchecked pollution caused by the first industrial revolution: smoke-filled skies and a river so polluted it regularly caught fire, and to the 1892 Carnegie Steel strike that killed and injured workers and the Pinkerton agents breaking it up. At least he left out the deaths and injuries of child laborers, which continued into the 1930s. Even Lowry seems compelled to acknowledge the value of improvements in industrial conditions after World War II. But those weren’t the result of letting companies do whatever they wanted. Instead, those improvements came about thanks to labor laws, the rebuilding of unions and regulations spurred by awareness of the environ-

mental harms of industry. Indeed, recalling the earlier industrial revolution seems more like a reason not to repeat its mistakes than to stop worrying about today’s. No, you can’t have industry without using resources, but it’s still wise to pay attention to how much and for what. The products of the first revolution, including steel, were clearly useful. AI is a more dubious gain: Its construction boom is quite possibly short-term, its production hungry for energy and resources and its applications not without harms of their own. Its CEOs, eyes set on profit, may not want to admit limits, but the fact that our industrial forefathers also moved fast and broke things is a useful reminder to pay attention this time and to speak up for what is beneficial for all, not just a few, before — rather than after — unnecessary harms.

New Orleans and Louisiana taxpayers deserve a straight answer on why the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is prepared to give away an extraordinary package of public assets to Omni Hotels for the proposed headquarters hotel (“$600 million New Orleans Omni hotel project gets key approval. What’s next?” Sept. 17). If this project were truly the financial slam-dunk it’s being sold as, Omni would buy the land and finance the construction. Instead, the company is being handed free development rights to riverfront land, $200 million in public funding and 45 years of hotel occupancy taxes, food and beverage taxes, sales taxes and special-district taxes created solely for this project. Supporters insist the public shouldn’t worry because “the intent” is to buy out these incentives someday. That is political window dressing. Buying out 45 years of rebates would require another massive lump-sum payment — likely well into nine figures — and Omni would have no reason to surrender guaranteed revenue streams. In practice, long-term tax diversions of this kind almost never get unwound. This deal may help the Convention Center’s booking calendar, but it does not help the people of New Orleans or Louisiana. We are subsidizing a private hotel that will return far more to Omni than to the public at a time when the city struggles with basic services, infrastructure failures and unmet needs in every neighborhood. A headquarters hotel may well be desirable. But giving away land, cash and nearly half a century of tax revenue is not a responsible path to get there. New Orleans can do better than this.

CHRISTINE ALBERS New Orleans

Reader-friendly radio is a worthy mission I much enjoyed and greatly appreciated your article in the Living section recognizing Susan Larson’s broadcasting of “The Reading Life” for WWNO (“For WWNO’s Susan Larson, ‘The Reading Life’ may have ended, but the reading never will”). Her generous gift of insightful reading invigorated listeners along with her “Booklover’s Guide to New Orleans.” As we look around, we ﬁnd numerous examples of such volunteer contributions in these challenging times. In like manner, I offer recognition of another wonderful volunteer organization, namely WRBH — the Reading Radio for Blind and Print Handicapped. With a staff of four and the contribution of numerous volunteer readers, WRBH broadcasts readings, 24/7 all

year, for the beneﬁt of listeners around the world. Founded in 1982, WRBH broadcasts a wide variety of reading — news, novels, poetry, histories, sports, opinions, comedies, comics, travel, trivia and so much more. WRBH is the only radio station in America that provides such expansive, nonstop broadcasting. In view of its far-reaching gift to the blind and printhandicapped, WRBH was one of the Points of Light recognized by President George H.W. Bush, calling for “the Spark” to recognize people quietly serving their communities. In closing, I hope that you might recognize WRBH for its wonderful work.

THOMAS J. WAGNER Metairie

Tribute to civil rights legend was uplifting Thanks to Huey Harrison for a great letter to the editor. It was uplifting and hopeful to read peaceful thoughts inspired by a peaceful man (“Recalling the life and legacy of civil rights legend

Jerome Smith,” Sept. 17). I hope to read more personal expressions by loving people.

JEAN HAYDEL River Ridge

NICHOLAS PERSICH Metairie

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The Times-Picayune F nola.com F Thursday, September 24, 2026 F 5B

COMMENTARY Politics poisons the AI debate are worried rogue AI agents will make Over the past few weeks, the public humanity go extinct. The fear of death has woken up to the debate that’s been is, for most people, a more powerful going on in the artificial intelligence motivator than the prospect of great safety community for more than a decade. Will we create superintelligence? wealth. There’s good reason to think those fears are sincere, given that Will it kill us? What should we do? many AI executives have been publicly I don’t have the answers to those fretting that AI could destroy huquestions. All I have are principles for thinking about the manity since before they started problem, which are being their companies. riotously violated all over the As you assess what they’re internet. telling you, separate empirical Some propositions, in no parquestions from value questions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, ticular order: Megan ega Don’t form strong beliefs McArdle many people forgot that while virologists knew a lot about (yet). Even in the frontier labs, viruses, they did not have any no one knows what the future holds. Those outside the labs don’t even special insight into the complex tradeoffs involved in locking down society know what the present holds, because or forcing everyone to wear masks. they haven’t seen the most advanced Those were value judgments, not scimodels, which haven’t been released. If you are sure you know what will hap- entific questions. Such judgments have pen, or what we should do about it, you to be made by society, not a handful of virologists or tech CEOs. are nurturing what writer and satirist As we debate those value questions, Ambrose Bierce called “a vagrant our emotions will tend to shade our opinion without visible means of supanalysis of the empirics. The reason it’s port.” important to keep an open mind, rather As you try to form an opinion, be than getting emotionally invested in a skeptical but not cynical. Many people seem convinced that frontier lab CEOs strong view about what should be done, is that once we’re so invested, we’ll be who want government permission to collaborate on safety, and possibly reg- tempted to seize on any fact that supulation, could have only one possible ports our position while ignoring those motive: boosting their stock price and that don’t. hamstringing their competition. I’m all Many folks in my own techno-optifor healthy skepticism, but this overmist camp are now pooh-poohing worshoots into cynicism — and then shoots ries about AI as just another episode in straight out the other side into a kind of a long history of technology panics that painful naiveté that assumes financial turned out to be misplaced. They’re motives are the only determinants of right about the past, but as writer Tom human behavior. Chivers has noted: “It is definitionally It is helpful to remember what the true that every prediction of the apocaleaders in the labs are saying: They lypse will be false except the last one.”

It’s fine to look for parallels in the past, but you have to assess each new situation on the merits, not the historical record. Pay as much attention to differences as you do to similarities. The Anthropic CEO is not the public health official who closed down your local parks and imposed a vaccine mandate. AI safety folks are not Luddites. More broadly, don’t let past commitments lock you into future positions. You may dislike the idea of regulation, corporations collaborating to slow down product development or, for that matter, AI. You may already have made strong declarations on these subjects. The stronger your past commitments, the more tempting it will be to ignore any fact or argument that might force you to revisit them. Resist this temptation. Be prepared to gracefully retreat if necessary. These precepts should strike most of us as reasonable. Unfortunately, our poisonous political atmosphere makes them unusually hard to follow. Increasingly, we assess facts and policy questions not by whether they are true, but according to which team seems to benefit most. If what the frontier labs are saying is correct, we can’t afford that kind of thinking. If the worst fears about rogue AI come to pass, Team Red and Team Blue will both lose the only contest that matters. So for the duration, let’s all try to focus on making sure that Team Humanity wins. Megan McArdle is on X, @asymmetricinfo. Email her at Megan. McArdle@washpost.com.

Closed primaries a curse on our democracy I didn't leave my political party; my party left me. Both of them. I've been a Democrat, and I've been a Republican. What I am now doesn't matter. The point is that a lot of American voters feel perpetually frustrated by the choices they find on the November ballot. The Democratic or Republican candidate is often chosen in lowturnout primaries where organized ideologues or special interest groups select the nominee. Right now, about 47% of registered American voters do not affiliate with a party. That's almost half the electorate. Independents are the largest group of registered voters in 10 states. Yet across much of the country, that huge chunk of voters is shut out of partisan primaries. If their state is solidly red, as is the case in conservative Oklahoma or Texas, the Republican is almost sure to win the general election. In liberal Maryland or Oregon, the Democrat can almost take victory for granted. There used to be very little discussion of independent voters. In 1961, 80% of Americans belonged to either the Democratic or Republican party and talk about “unaffiliated” voters tended toward the derogatory. They were Froma generally written off as Harrop disgruntled Republicans or Democrats. “Outside the presidential race, for most Americans, it's a one-party country,” explains Jeremy Gruber, senior vice president of Open Primaries, a nonpartisan group that advocates for letting all voters participate in primary elections. “When you have a one-party state, the general election is largely meaningless. The dominant party's primary is the only important election.” Open primaries do not seem to favor one party over the other. About 15 states run strictly open primaries. They include Massachusetts, Alaska and North Carolina. These states are worlds apart demographically and ideologically. And there's a mistaken belief that independent voters tend to be conservative white men. Not the case. They are now heavily Latino. Apparently, 52% of Latino voters are unaffiliated. “Like Latinos nationally,” wrote Mike Madrid, author of “The Latino Century,” “Latinos in California are the least partisan bloc of voters in the state.” Open primaries sees similar trends

STAFF FILE PHOTO

Eric Cowan comes out of the voting booth at the Dryades yMCA polling location in New Orleans on May 16. in Asian communities. Gruber points out that many immigrants come from countries where party membership has a negative connotation. Younger Americans are among the least likely groups of voters to join a party. Nationally, 57% of Gen Z and 54% of millennials are independent. Given these numbers, it's striking that three big American cities still run fully closed partisan primaries. They are New York City, Philadelphia and Baltimore. All three are solidly Democraticcontrolled. Yet there are more independent voters in New York City than Republicans. Zohran Mamdani won the Democratic nomination for mayor with the support of only 11% of the city's registered voters. A group called UniteNY is pushing for open primaries as a civil rights issue. Its July 2026 Voter Empowerment Index found that two-thirds of New Yorkers favored open primaries. That would presumably include many reg-

istered Democrats. There's a strong legal argument for opening the primaries. The Democratic and Republican parties are both private entities. State and local governments run the primaries with taxpayer money. When independents call their boards of election to ask why they can't vote in an important primary race, the most bureaucrats can often offer is to help them join a party so that their voice can be heard. But, Gruber rightly asks, “Why should Americans have to join a party whose agenda they don't believe in to participate in the selection of their leaders?” Special interests of both parties understandably like the concentration of power that closed primaries confer. But we who are so often unhappy with the choices in the general election do not agree: Closed primaries are bad for the democracy. Froma Harrop is on X, @FromaHarrop.

Congress could learn fiscal discipline from Moreno Who knew that New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno was a fiscal conservative? Maybe Congress could learn something from her. Listening to Moreno and Chief Administrative Officer Joe Giarrusso III present their 2027 budget proposal this week gave me flashbacks to 1995 and 1996. That’s when the U.S. House Appropriations Committee (I was on its PR staff), led by Louisiana Republican Bob Livingston, was cutting substantial amounts of actual dollars — not just the “rate of increase” — from domestic discretionary spending. Those tough but careful cutbacks played a key role in the federal government balancing its budget for four years in a row — four of only five balanced budgets in the past 67 years! That work toward a balanced budget was a really big deal. So is what Moreno is doing. Her proposed 2027 budget of $763 million is $87 million, or 10.2%, leaner than the city’s actual expected spending in 2026, which itself is $27 million less than was spent in 2025. And unlike 2025, when some health Quin care costs were hidden by what the Hillyer current regime considers to be improper accounting, this year all the spending really is accounted for. What caused the flashbacks was that Moreno, Giarrusso and staff appear to be pursuing their task in much the same way federal appropriators did back then. With great specificity and public transparency, they are going line item by line item: separating the “must have” government functions from the “want to have” ones; looking for unused money to shift among accounts; making existing dollars stretch further. Moreno also outlined some options to raise more revenue, and she expressed clear desires for which programs, such as a low-barrier homeless shelter, would be first to be funded if those revenue streams materialize. Even then, she said, she and the City Council would have “a menu of different options” from which, collaboratively, to choose. This is painstaking and usually thankless work. But it’s exactly how government officials should operate. The reality is, Moreno hates doing this. Unlike ideological conservatives, she would much rather have more money for government to dole out in ways she thinks will help people. “These cuts are not good,” she said. “They are very, very bad.” Still, by taking aggressive action, and doing it with transparency rather than with smoke and mirrors, she is showing the sort of responsibility every fiscal conservative claims to desire. Kudos, therefore, to her and her staff. One only wishes today’s Congress would do the same. On one hand, the top-line numbers from today’s appropriators look good: Official White House budget tables show estimated domestic discretionary spending of $862 billion for Fiscal Year 2026, which ends on Sept. 30, is a 9% reduction from Fiscal Year 2025. Those numbers, however, come with two small caveats and one big one. The first small caveat is that federal-agency shutdowns literally distorted the government’s internal accounting for a while, so those numbers may still be subject to revision. The second small one is that many of the savings weren’t Congress’ work but that of the very short-lived Department of Government Efficiency, which made entirely uncareful cuts, willy-nilly, some of which are still subject to court action and others of which may not last because they aren’t actually written into law. The larger caveat is that domestic discretionary savings are very small potatoes compared with the overall $2.1 trillion deficit, nearly half of which (about $1 trillion) is from interest on the existing national debt and most of the rest of which is driven by entitlement spending such as Medicare and Social Security. Higher interest payments are exacerbated by higher interest rates that seem necessary to keep a lid on price inflation, which is indisputably worsened by the tariffs Congress refuses to rein in. And Congress refuses to get really serious about reforming Social Security, which has a cash deficit this year of nearly $250 billion. Indeed, Louisiana’s retiring Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy has been a lonely voice for years in proposing systemic Social Security reform and reengineering medical payment systems that could save money both for patients and across multiple government accounts. On those fronts, Cassidy has the Moreno attitude — Let’s buckle down and tackle the big issues! — while the rest of Congress and the president fiddle. Several times this week, Moreno spoke about the city’s budget being “lean.” Back in 1995, our mantra was “lean but not mean.” Those spending cuts back then didn’t hurt the Republican Party, which kept its House majority for 12 straight years. Voters respect hard-nosed but fair-minded budgeting. Here’s betting that as long as Moreno maintains her high levels of transparency, Orleans voters will respect the mayor’s efforts as well. Email Quin Hillyer at quin.hillyer@theadvocate. com.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ARE WELCOME. HERE ARE OUR GUIDELINES: Letters are published identifying name, occupation and/or title and the

writer’s city of residence. The Advocate | The Times-Picayune require a street address and phone number for verification purposes, but that information is not published. Letters are not to exceed 300 words. Letters to the Editor, The Advocate, P.O. Box 588, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-0588, or email letters@theadvocate.com.

TO SEND US A LETTER, SCAN HERE

6B ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

lll

with meteorologist Damon Singleton

TODAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Partly sunny, warm and humid

Mostly sunny

Sun and some clouds

Partly sunny

A stray afternoon t-storm

Increasing clouds and humid

HIGH

LOW

91° 76°

LOW

88° 73°

LOW

89° 71°

Beaumont 95/69 Port Arthur 93/71

Baton Rouge 93/71

Lake Charles 95/67

New Orleans 91/76 Houma 91/72

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

Hattiesburg 92/66

Alexandria 90/64

Lafayette 94/69

10s

20s

30s

40s

50s

HIGH

90° 74°

LOW

89° 74°

YESTERDAY

New Orleans through 5 p.m. Wednesday

Jackson 88/66 Many 89/60

LOW

TEMPERATURE

Longview 91/63

-0s

90° 72°

Monroe 91/66

Shreveport 91/64

-10s

LOW

Well, a weak cold front is making its way into the Gulf today, and behind that front some much drier air is moving into southeast Louisiana. So today, expect a mostly sunny, hot, less humid and breezy day. Temperatures this afternoon will be slightly above average rising into the low to mid-90s. Humidity is lower today so temperatures will only feel like they’re in the upper 90s to low 100s. A spotty shower or two is possible today but overall, rain chances are less than 10% through the weekend.

60s

70s

80s

90s 100s 110s

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

Sunrise today Sunset tonight Moonrise today Moonset today

SEP 26

City

Atlanta Austin Boston Charlotte Chicago Dallas Denver Houston Las Vegas

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

91°/75° 87°/72° 92°/75° 94° in 1993 55° in 1983

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

FULL

PRECIPITATION

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

HIGH

7:54p 2:13p 4:08a 6:35a 9:27a 8:53a 10:35a

6:50 a.m. 6:55 p.m. 5:48 p.m. 4:44 a.m.

LAST

NEW

OCT 3

73 98 63 66 69 95 71 96 96

TODAY Lo

60 72 54 52 58 71 52 70 74

FIRST

OCT 10

c pc pc r c pc t pc s

OCT 18

80 97 64 77 68 92 76 94 96

FRI. Lo

58 73 55 51 54 73 56 72 76

pc s r s pc pc pc pc s

FT.

LOW

0.00” 7.22” 4.19” 51.51” 50.04”

FT.

HIGH

0.7 5:31a 0.3 1.7 10:39p 0.8 2.1 7:42a 1.7 1.7 12:06p 1.2 1.3 6:51p 0.7 1.6 5:06p 0.8 1.5 7:53p 0.8

FT.

MODERATE

READING 55 MAIN POLLUTANT Particulates

MAIN POLLUTANT Ozone

SOURCE: LOUISIANA DEQ AND AIRNOW.GOV

LOW

FT.

--- ----- ----- ----- --2:26p 2.0 7:40p 0.8 4:40p 1.5 11:31p 0.7 --- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ---

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 9:56a Friday 10:36a Saturday 11:19a Sunday 12:06p Monday 12:33a Tuesday 1:29a Wednesday 2:31a

City

Los Angeles Miami Nashville New york City Philadelphia Phoenix St. Louis San Francisco Seattle

3:45a 4:25a 5:07a 5:54a 6:45a 7:43a 8:45a

TODAY

86 88 83 69 70 98 77 74 63

67 76 62 55 55 78 63 60 52

10:18p 10:58p 11:41p ---12:58p 1:57p 3:00p

s t pc pc pc t pc s sh

85 88 84 69 73 101 77 72 60

4:07p 4:47p 5:30p 6:17p 7:11p 8:10p 9:15p

FRI. Lo

68 74 56 56 58 80 60 56 48

MISSISSIPPI Memphis Vidalia-Natchez Red River Landing Baton Rouge Donaldsonville Reserve New Orleans OHIO Cairo COMITE Near Olive AMITE Near Darlington Denham Springs Port Vincent TICKFAW Montpelier Holden ATCHAFALAYA Simmesport Melville Krotz Springs Butte La Rose Bayou Sorrel Morgan City

s t s pc c t c pc sh

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

DEATHS continued from Animal Rescue of New Orleans, 160 Brookhollow Esplanade, Elmwood LA 70123.

Mo, Wayne Andrew

Wayne Andrew Mo, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on Septem‐ ber 12, 2026, at the age of 75. Born on March 18, 1951, at Anderson Air Force Base in Guam to Charles Luck Mo and Ruth Mae Dubois Childs, Wayne was a man who lived his life to the fullest through an industri‐ ous spirit. The name Wayne means “wagon maker”, a fitting reflection of a man who was always building, fixing and work‐ ing with his hands. Wayne was a true handyman who could seemingly figure out how to fix just about any‐ thing. Wayne was a gradu‐ ate of Chalmette High School and after a long ca‐ reer in the energy and util‐ ity industry retired from Entergy Corporation. He was an avid car enthusiast, with a special passion for Corvettes, and many years ago served as President of the Greater New Orleans Corvette Club. Wayne's faith was also an impor‐ tant part of his life, and the scripture, Psalm 27:1, holds special meaning in remem‐ bering him. "The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life.” He is survived by his wife, JoAnne Ferrara Mo; his daughters, Jennifer Mo Miles (Brian), Andria Mo Schiro (Jeff), Lauren Elizabeth Mo, and Melissa Mo Billiot (Robert); his grandchildren, Joshua Schiro (Fallyn), Kaela Schiro, Brock Miles, Ben‐ jamin Schiro, Connor Miles (MacKenzie), Daniel Schiro, Macilyn Mo-Ledet, Anson Mo-Billiot, Katherine Mo, Madisyn Schiro, and Mor‐ gan Billiot; and his greatgrandson, Brody Schiro. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Ruth Mo; and his brothers, Charles Luck Mo, Jr. and Gary Michael

Mo. The family is grateful to the hospice care team, especially Jody, Carmelia, Mark and Marguerite along with all staff at Fidelis Home for the quality of care they showed Wayne until his ﬁnal day. Visita‐ tion for his closest family and friends will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026, 11:00 a.m. at Lake Lawn Fu‐ neral Home in Metairie with a memorial service in honor of Wayne beginning at 1 p.m. A private inter‐ ment will take place at St. Roch Cemetery #2. “To everything there is a sea‐ son, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” Ecclesiastes 3:1

Perez, Horace Joseph

Horace Joseph Perez was called home by his Jesus on September 22, 2026, passing away peacefully surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 92. Horace was the beloved husband of his high school sweetheart Marie Burst Perez after 55 years of marriage. He is survived their three children: Diane Perez Barras (Corky), Peter Perez (Melanie) and Sheila Campo (Vincent); his four grandchildren, Dana Orgeron (Tommy), Peter Perez Jr. (Sarah), Paul Perez (Elizabeth), and Vincent "Vinnie" Campo Jr. (Brittany); and his 13 great -grandchildren, Marie "Mia" Otillio, Sophia, Liam, David, Petra, Serena, Samuel, Elliott, Eva, Audrey, Vincent "Tripp," Beau and George. He is also survived by his spouse Dianne Duckworth Perez after 16 years of marriage. He was preceded in death by his parents, Peter Anthony Perez and Mary Paratore Perez, and his brother Peter Anthony Perez, Jr. Mr. Perez was blessed to be able to spend his last years living with his children who cared for him. Horace grew up in the Mid-City neighborhood, where he attended St. Joseph Grammar School

and Rugby Academy. His fondest memories include being an altar server at St. Joseph's Church, playing with his dog Jinks, swimming at the Fontainebleau Hotel in the summer and being an avid amateur boxer at St. Henry's gym, and riding NOPD horses. Mr. Perez proudly served on the USS Hess Destroyer in the United States Navy during the Korean war. After an Honorable Discharge, he was employed by the New Orleans Police Department for 32 years, where he achieved the rank of Captain, serving in the First, Third and Fifth Districts. Captain Perez also served in the Patrol Bureau, was the Director of Civil Defense Unit, the Director of the Crime Lab and the Supervisor of the Emergency Medical Services Department. Representing his fellow officers, he also held office on the Police Association of New Orleans and the Fraternal Order of Police. The highlight of his career was being awarded the Charles E. Dunbar, Jr. Career Civil Service Award, the highest honor state employees can receive for their service to the citizens of Louisiana. On New Year's Eve 1972, Lieutenant Perez was shot by the Howard Johnson sniper Mark Essex while assisting a downed fellow officer in an ambush on the New Orleans Police Department Central Lock-up. Mr. Perez was a very active member of St. Edward the Confessor Catholic Church and was a dedicated member of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, where he served as President. A faithful adorer at St. Edward's Adoration Chapel, he also served as Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion and was a champion for unborn babies and regularly picketed the abortion facilities. For his devoted Catholic service, he and his wife Marie were awarded one of the most cherished awards presented in the Archdiocese, the Order of St. Louis, the highest honor given to members of the laity who have made outstanding contributions of their time and talent to the Church. After his retirement, Mr. Perez engaged in many ac-

tivities including participating in activities at the World War II Museum where he was a semifinalist in Stage Door Idol, the museum's singing competition, and playing pool and biking with his best friend Bob in the neighborhood. Because he enjoyed nature, he always wanted to protect the birds and beautify Metairie. So, Horace and Bob surreptitiously planted hundreds of trees all over Metairie! The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to Mrs. Isela and the staff at Home Instead for their compassionate care. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Funeral Mass at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church, 105 Bonnabel Boulevard, Metairie, LA, Friday, September 25, 2026, at 12:30 Noon. Visitation will begin at 10:45 AM until Mass time. Interment will be in Hope Mausoleum 4841 Canal St. New Orleans, La. In lieu of flowers, Masses or a donation to St. Vincent DePaul Society are preferred. Mothe Funeral Home is assisting the family during this difficult time. Condolences and memories may be shared by visiting his memorial page at: www.mothefunerals.com.

Preaus, Eugene Rowland

Eugene Rowland Preaus passed away peacefully on September 20, 2026, in New Orleans, LA at the age of 84. "Gene" was born in Farmerville, LA on September 22, 1941, to the late Fred Tidwell and Mona Gill Preaus. He frequently

TODAY

MODERATE

talked about his idyllic childhood in the small north Louisiana town in 1940's-50's America. Summers were spent shoeless and carefree. The Farmerville Public Library was a frequent stop and served as a gateway to Gene's lifelong love of the study of history and genealogy. He attended Farmerville High School, and graduated from Sewanee Military Academy in Sewanee, TN. He was also a proud Eagle Scout. Gene graduated from Princeton University in the class of 1963, where he excelled in the classroom and made many lifelong friends. From Princeton, he returned to Louisiana and attended law school at Tulane. Gene settled in New Orleans, where he led a full and thriving life. Gene's law career, successful as it was, paled in comparison to his interest in a wide range of relationships and hobbies. Gene created his own world, and its most important inhabitants were his family. He celebrated his 57th wedding anniversary with his wife Ann Kerr Preaus, who he married on January 27, 1968, in Saint Louis Cathedral. Children David, Darnell, and Virginia followed, and Gene took great delight in each of them throughout their lives. A Renaissance man, Gene took keen interest in art, music, and gardening. He and Ann loved to cook together and entertain their many friends at their family home on Pine Street. He read constantly, sometimes holding an open book in each hand. He loved classical music and learned to play a piano piece from his favorite composer, Rachmaninoff. An avid card player, he joined in many bridge games across the city. His love of history and genealogy flourished through his active membership in the Society of Colonial Wars, The Society of the Cincinnati, and the First Families of Virginia, among other organizations. He loved helping others research their family histories, as well as finding long-lost connections. Gene was a member of the Boston and Louisiana Club and numerous Carnival and social organizations. He loved New Orleans, where he and Ann were active and enthusiastic participants in social events

FLOOD STAGE

34 48 48 35 27 22 17

WED. 24-HOUR STAGE CHANGE

-2.10 16.40 19.30 6.80 4.00 3.51 3.00

-0.30 +0.40 +0.40 +0.30 none +0.16 none

17.34

+2.47

-1.52

+0.19

18 29 8

-1.18 9.89 2.40

+0.08 +0.07 +0.04

13 15

1.48 0.62

+0.06 -0.02

47 34 29 20 12 6

6.60 4.42 2.91 3.48 3.30 2.13

-0.01 -0.05 -0.11 -0.14 +0.20 +0.08

data as of 7 a.m. Wednesday

and local institutions. He was a board member of the New Orleans Botanical Garden and a founding member of Christwood Retirement Community. Later in life, he enjoyed writing for the Lambeth Literary Journal. Gene is survived by his wife, Ann Kerr Preaus of New Orleans, son, David Carrington Preaus and his wife, Susan of Silverthorne, CO, and their children, Theodore Lobrano Preaus, Noah Tidwell Preaus, and Hamilton Fauntleroy Preaus; daughter, Darnell Preaus Heywood and her husband, Will of Columbus, OH, and their children, William "Liam" Heywood V and Charles Eugene Heywood; and daughter, Virginia Preaus Barba and her husband, Lee of New Orleans, LA, and their children, Adele Lobrano Barba and Litchfield "Field" Clark Barba. He was preceded in death by his parents, Fred Tidwell and Mona Gill Preaus and brother, Frederick Tidwell Preaus. Relatives and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on Friday, September 25th from 3:00pm to 5:00pm at Lambeth House, 150 Broadway, New Orleans, Louisiana. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Lambeth House Foundation at www.lambethhouse.com/ donations/

OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

SPORTS

N O L A.C O M

T h u r s d ay, s e p T e m b e r 24, 2026

R A I D E R S A T S A I N T S • 3 : 2 5 P. M . S U N D A y • C B S

Saints doing some of their best offensive work on third-and-long situations

DISTANT THREATS

1CN

Wade: ‘Everybody’s waiting for us to fail’ LSU coach talks unstable roster ahead of season

BY TOYLOY BROWN III Staff writer

Will Wade on Wednesday discussed an LSU roster with only four publicly listed players just 41 days from the Tigers’ season opener Nov. 3. Before answering the obvious question, Wade joked that his group has enjoyed 2-on-2 practices for months. The rest of Wade’s opening comments in his ﬁrst ofﬁcial media availability since his March 30 introductory news conference addressed what is going on. His answer is LSU has signed 15 players, and all have practiced together since Sept. 2. That includes former St. John’s star RJ Luis, who was granted a preliminary injunction to play on Aug. 24 in his lawsuit against the NCAA. “Every one of them’s out there running around and have been since school got back,” said Wade, who previously led LSU (2017-22) to a 105-51 overall record and a 56-33 mark in the Southeastern Conference. “We’ve been operating as a normal program since we started the semester in August.” Even though Wade said his operation is

ä See WADE, page 4C

BY LUKE JOHNSON Staff writer

To put a new spin on an old cliché: When the going gets tough, the Shough gets going. Through two games, the New Orleans Saints have converted 50% of their third downs, ranking No. 6 in the NFL. They’ve also converted an NFL-best four fourth downs and have scored ﬁve touchdowns in seven redzone trips (71.4%, T-9th). “Well, I think we have some really good guys running routes, a really good quarterback throwing them the ball,” Saints offensive guard Cesar Ruiz said. “That’s it. It feels good to see the playmakers and the guys that can do special things do special things in those situations.” The numbers are impressive, especially for a team that was extremely lacking in those areas this time a year ago, but they don’t tell the full story. The Saints have been even better when needing to pick up a thirdand-long conversion. Take last week’s game against the Baltimore Ravens. New Orleans went into eight situations where it needed

7 or more yards to convert on third down, and it succeeded five times. That’s a 62.5% conversion rate on the most difficult downs. On those plays, New Orleans averaged 14.3 yards per play — an astonishing number, especially when considering one of those plays resulted in an 8-yard loss on a sack. Quarterback Tyler Shough has been the main driver of this never-say-die offense. His ability to keep plays alive has opened new avenues for big plays, such as the one where he found Devaughn Vele for 29 yards to convert a third-and-13 against Baltimore. On the play, Shough evaded pressure and moved up in the pocket, threatening to take off up the middle of the field. The safety, Malaki Starks, bit on the bait and left his zone to prevent Shough from taking off. The Saints quarterback proceeded to throw the ball over his head right to Vele, who was crossing in the area Starks vacated. “Statistically, you expect third-and-long is not a high conversion rate,” Ruiz said. “So when we convert those,

ä See SAINTS, page 5C

Saints wide receiver Chris Olave pulls in a pass over Baltimore Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey in the second half against the Ravens on Sunday in Baltimore. AP PHOTO By NICK WASS

Tulane DT making nooise in unexpected 5th yeaar BY GUERRY SMITH Contributing writer

After meeting Kam Hamilton in the spring, new Tulane defensive line coach Eric McDaniel’s first thought was wishing he could have worked with him. That dream became an unexpected reality in August when Hamilton received an injunction in court allowing him to return to the team for a fifth year. The ruling is paying off for everyone as the Green Wave (1-2) prepares for its final nonconference game against Southern Miss (1-2) on Saturday at Yulman Stadium (6 p.m., ESPN+). “It was huge,” McDaniel said. “It’s a blessing. I’d heard a lot about him coming here, and look at it now. He’s a huge upgrade for us.” Despite missing the offseason program and the first two weeks of preseason camp, Hamilton already has become Tulane’s most productive lineman with 91/ 2 tackles and 11/ 2 stops for loss through three games, including two starts at nose tackle. His experience should prove invaluable as the

Tulane DT Kam Hamilton

STAFF PHOTO By PEARL SPURLOCK

LSU men’s basketball coach Will Wade speaks at a news conference on Wednesday at LSU.

Fair or not, LSU must make CFP this season

Green Wave prepares to make e a run at its fifth consecutive American Conference C championship game. Hamilton’s line mates had co ombined for zero starts at Tulane entering itts opener at Duke. He started 22 times in the past two years, earning third-team Alll-American Conference mention from th he league’s coaches in 2024 and from the Pro P Football and Sports Network in 2025. “I’m just happy to be back wiith the team and help lead the young guy ys and give them some knowledge about the game,” he said. “I want to help the tea am win and become a better leader.” Hamilton is far different from the shy player who arrived on campuss in 2022 unsure about how he would ﬁt in. Born B legally deaf, he overcame tremendouss challenges in the classroom and on the field as he

Who says the regular season is diminished now that it’s paired with a 12-team College Football Playoff? When LSU hosts Texas A&M (both 2-1, 0-1 Southeastern Conference) on Saturday night in Tiger Stadium (6:30 p.m., ABC), it will almost qualify as a CFP elimination game. Yes, it’s the last Saturday in September, not the third Saturday in November. But with both teams coming off losses — LSU 32-24 at Ole Scott Miss, A&M more ominously Rabalais 31-21 at home against previously unheralded Kentucky — this really, really ä Texas counts. According to ESPN’s A&M at Heather Dinich, the loser of LSU 6:30 P.M. Saturday’s game has at best SATURDAy,ABC a 10% chance to reach the CFP this season. The Aggies made the playoffs in 2025, bowing out in the ﬁrst round to Miami. Texas A&M is in its third season under coach Mike Elko, a season in which the Aggies may have been expected to take a step further into national championship contention. Whether or not that happens is yet to be written.

ä See TULANE, page 4C

ä See RABALAIS, page 4C

ä Southern Miss at Tulane 6 P.M. SATURDAy, ESPN+

AP FILE PHOTO

2C ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

lll

BROADCAST HIGHLIGHTS On TV

7 p.m.

AUTO RACING 7 a.m. Formula 1: Practice APPLETV COLLEGE FOOTBALL 6 p.m. Benedict at Tuskegee ESPN2 6:30 p.m. Liberty at Coastal Carolina ESPN WOMEN’S COLLEGE SOCCER 5 p.m. Wisconsin at Maryland BTN 5 p.m. Memphis at South Florida ESPNU 6 p.m. Notre Dame at Duke ACCN 6 p.m. Kentucky at South Carolina SECN 7 p.m. UCLA at Rutgers BTN

Mississippi St. at Tennessee ESPNU GOLF 11:30 a.m. Presidents Cup GOLF HORSE RACING noon America’s Day at the Races FS2 MLB 11:30 a.m. St Louis at Pittsburgh MLBN 2:30 p.m. Arizona at Colorado MLBN 6 p.m. Cincinnati at Atlanta FS1 9 p.m. San Diego at L.A. Dodgers MLBN NFL 7:15 p.m. Atlanta at Green Bay PRIME

IN BRIEF

FROM STAFF AND WIRE REPORTS

NHL PRESEASON New Jersey at N.y. Rangers NHLN Utah at Vegas NHLN MEN’S SOCCER 1:30 p.m. Norway vs. Denmark FS1 6:50 p.m. Dominican Rep. vs. Nicaragua FS2 8:50 p.m. Costa Rica vs. Curacao FS2 TENNIS 10 p.m. Seoul & Singapore TENNIS WNBA 6 p.m. Toronto at Connecticut NBATV 7 p.m. Indiana at Minnesota USA 9 p.m. Las Vegas at Phoenix CNBC 6 p.m. 9 p.m.

Scott eager for Presidents Cup win Australian is hungry for International team’s first victory over U.S. in his 12th straight appearance

BY DOUG FERGUSON AP golf writer

MEDINAH, Ill. — Adam Scott was a fresh face at age 23 and getting feisty under the darkening sky in South Africa. The Presidents Cup was tied. Ernie Els and Tiger Woods were in a tense playoff when the captains agreed to a tie, meaning the Americans would keep the cup as defending champions. “Keep playing,” Scott shouted. They ultimately agreed to share the cup. Asked for his recollections from his 2003 debut, the 46-yearold Australian smiled and said: “I think I strongly suggested that Ernie get to the 18th tee because we’re playing. I was confident they could tee off. I don’t know that they could have ﬁnished the hole.” Scott never could have imagined then that it would be the closest he’d ever come to playing on a winning International team in the Presidents Cup. This week at Medinah marks his 12th consecutive appearance, tying the record held by Phil Mickelson. It’s another testament to a career built around a swing so pure it has kept Scott free of injury as he became only the second player to compete in at least 100 consecutive majors, and it has kept him relevant enough to be part of yet another Presidents Cup. It’s also one more chance, and Scott doesn’t take it for granted. “I feel like it’s a huge opportunity for me,” Scott said. “There was probably a period 10 years ago, in the middle of my career, where it was, ‘Oh, this (winning) is going to happen.’ But now there’s not many more, that’s for sure. I’ve been given another chance. It might be the last one.” The Internationals gathered for the team photo Wednesday morning, and it was only fitting that Scott had a place next to the gold trophy, with lifelong friend and International captain Geoff Ogilvy on the other side. One is the captain who has been the model of quiet conﬁdence. The other is the inspiration for a team that wants to win as badly as Scott does. “He’s part of the International furniture now,” Christiaan Bezuidenhout said. “All of us would

New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart is expected to have season-ending surgery on his left knee, according to a person with knowledge of the details of the injury. Dart was injured on the ﬁrst drive Monday night against the Los Angeles Rams when his left leg bent awkwardly as he was hit by two defenders. After initially saying it was in the neighborhood of a medial collateral ligament injury, coach John Harbaugh said Tuesday the evaluation process for Dart was still ongoing. An MRI revealed medial collateral ligament, posterior cruciate ligament and meniscus damage, according to a report by the NFL Network. Jameis Winston takes over the starting role beginning Sunday against Tennessee. The Giants’ next ﬁve opponents have a combined 2-8 record.

Heel injury lands Colts WR Pierce on IR again

The Indianapolis Colts are placing receiver Alec Pierce on injured reserve, three days after he hopped off the ﬁeld at Kansas City after aggravating his injured left heel. Coach Shane Steichen made the announcement Wednesday. The move means Indy will be without its top receiver for at least four weeks. Pierce had been held out of offseason work and all three preseason games after undergoing offseason surgery on his left ankle and heel. He was activated from the physically unable to perform list in late August. Steichen said Pierce hit all of his rehab benchmarks before being cleared to return, and he caught four passes for 61 yards against Baltimore in the season opener.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By MATT SLOCUM

International team captain Geoff Ogilvy, left, and player Adam Scott, of Australia, look at the Presidents Cup trophy during a team portrait prior to the start of the Presidents Cup against the U.S. at Medinah Country Club on Wednesday in Medinah, Ill. ä Presidents Cup.

11:30 A.M. THURSDAy, GOLF. love to win the cup, but it would be so much more special if we can do it while Adam is still in the team.” Scott, coming off a runner-up ﬁnish in the BMW PGA Championship last week in England, still can ﬁnd plenty of happy memories from his two-plus decades being on losing teams. He partnered with Els for a pair of foursomes victories in South Africa — “He’s a bit of a god down there. That was awesome,” Scott said — and he was with K.J. Choi at Royal Melbourne in 2011 when they handed Woods and Steve Stricker their worst loss (7 and 6) in team competition. But the beer-drinking celebrations with the cup in hand? Foreign territory. “It’s a quarter of a century. It’s

his whole career,” Ogilvy said. “Certainly the last two or three times he’s been super motivated. Like: ‘This is something I have to do before I’m done. I have to be on a winning team.’ ”Scott’s two closest friends in golf, Ogilvy and Trevor Immelman, have been or are captains. He surely is next in line, unless there’s another Presidents Cup for Scott to play. In some respects, he already is one, given his presence — his experience — in the team room and on the bus. “He’s like a playing captain,” Ogilvy said. “You can hear in his voice his desire to win this tournament. He’s the leader of the players, clearly, and he’s embracing that role now.” Scott started his Presidents Cup career playing alongside Els and Retief Goosen, Nick Price and Vijay Singh, all of them in the World Golf Hall of Fame.

Now he’s with Ryo Hisatsune and Tom Kim, who weren’t even born when Scott turned pro. South Africa wasn’t the only close call. It went down to the ﬁnal match in 2005 in Virginia and in 2015 in South Korea. The Internationals had the lead going into Sunday singles at Royal Melbourne in 2019 until the Americans rallied behind Woods, a playing captain, and ﬁnally secured victory in the 11th of 12 matches. But it was another loss, and two more followed after that. “It’s come down to the last hole several times, and they can go any way. And it hasn’t gone our way,” Scott said. “For me, of course, I want to win one desperately and I don’t know how many more I can possibly play in. But it’s a team effort to do it. We all have to want it so badly. I think it would be an amazing experience for us all to win this cup.”

Aces chase another title, ‘still pushing’ for more Las Vegas has won three of the past four titles

BY MARK ANDERSON

AP sportswriter

LAS VEGAS — Talent has never been a question regarding the Aces as they have built the WNBA’s newest dynasty, but that alone doesn’t explain their success. Las Vegas has won three of the past four titles by also showing a mental toughness to overcome adversity, some of it the Aces’ own making and some foisted on them by events. And now the Aces find themselves in the familiar position of being one of the favorites to win the title, but face a number of challenges that could prevent them from making more history when the playoffs begin Sunday. “I’m always concerned about something,” coach Becky Hammon said. “You’re never comfortable. So I’m still pushing. I’m still demanding certain things to get done out there on the ﬂoor. Still encouraging, applauding certain things we’ve done. But we always have areas where we can get better and want to be sharper. We’re just not a ﬁnished product, nor do we want to be. We’re still working our way there.”

Giants QB Dart’s knee surgery likely to end year

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JOHN LOCHER

Las Vegas Aces head coach Becky Hammon reacts during a game against the Seattle Storm on Sunday in Las Vegas. The Aces, with a game left in the regular season, have clinched home-court advantage through the ﬁrst round of the playoffs by securing at least the third seed. They would move up to the second seed with a victory at Phoenix on Thursday and a Golden State loss to Los Angeles, which also would get the Aces home court through at least two rounds. It would be easy to look at Las Vegas’ success and think it has all

come easy, especially with fourtime MVP A’ja Wilson leading the way. And that was largely true when the Aces captured their first championship in 2022. The Aces tied Chicago for the best record in the regular season and then went 8-2 in the playoffs and didn’t face an elimination game. But their title the following year came after six-time All-Star point guard Chelsea Gray and post play-

er Kiah Stokes suffered foot injuries in the WNBA Finals against New York. The Aces somehow survived those losses to beat the Liberty by a point to go back-toback as well as avoid a winnertake-all Game 5. Their most difficult challenge came during last season’s title run when the Aces didn’t look anything like a championship team in losing at home by 53 points to Minnesota to fall to 14-14. They quickly regrouped and then won their final 16 regular-season games, but in the playoffs had to overcome Indiana in overtime of the deciding Game 5 to even make the Finals. And now the Aces are playing in the shadow of the Lynx, the No. 1 seed and substantial consensus favorites to win the championship. Las Vegas has the second-best odds on the betting boards, riding a six-game winning streak against opponents that did not qualify for the playoffs. The Aces’ record this season against teams that make up the postseason field is a pedestrian 11-10. “I think we made some improvements on both ends of the floor,” Gray said. “I think there’s moments where we can get better and get more consistent, but it’s go time, so everybody’s going to be locked in. We’ve been locked in about it, but it goes up another level.”

Groin injury sends Panthers running back Brooks to IR

Carolina Panthers coach Dave Canales said backup running back Jonathon Brooks is set to undergo surgery on his groin and will miss 6-8 weeks. The Panthers placed Brooks on injured reserve on Wednesday. He will have surgery on Thursday. The expectation is that Brooks will return later in the season. The injury occurred in the fourth quarter of Carolina’s 34-3 win over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday. Brooks has struggled with knee injuries in the past, limiting his playing time to only five of 36 games since joining the league as a second-round pick in 2024. He tore his ACL during his ﬁnal season at Texas and then reinjured the same knee during his rookie season with the Panthers.

Court ruling allows Indiana defenders on field again

An Indiana state court has opened the door for Indiana defensive linemen Stephen Daley and Kellan Wyatt to return to the playing ﬁeld for Friday night’s Big Ten Conference opener against Northwestern. Monroe Circuit Court Judge Kara Krothe issued a preliminary injunction Wednesday that grants Daley, Wyatt and more than 90 other athletes a ﬁfth year of eligibility. The NCAA is expected to appeal. For now, though, the ruling clears the way for Daley, Wyatt and dozens of others to return to action. Daley and Wyatt did not play in Indiana’s 38-0 victory over Western Kentucky last weekend because a temporary restraining order allowing them to compete had expired.

Braves outfielder Acuña listed as day-to-day

Braves outﬁelder Ronald Acuña left Atlanta’s game against Cincinnati in the third inning after fouling a ball off his left leg Tuesday night. Acuña was listed as day-to-day with a contusion after X-rays and a CT scan showed no serious damage. He was able to walk slowly off the ﬁeld under his own power after hobbling away from the battling circle and dropping to his knees in clear pain. The injury comes with the playoffs just a week away for Atlanta, which clinched its seventh NL East title in the past nine years. Asked if he had any worries about Acuña being ready for the postseason, manager Walt Weiss replied: “Not as I sit here today, unless things change. No concerns.”

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ 3C

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VARSITY ZONE

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL

Triple Crown still within reach for Astros’ Alvarez BY LUKE OLSON Associated Press

STAFF PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

Rummel wide receiver Kirby Cade races past U-High defenders on Sept. 4 in Baton Rouge.

Difference-makers

Eight Catholic League players making presence known BY SPENCER URQUHART Staff writer

District 9-5A, known as the Catholic League, features some of the best high school football teams in Louisiana. This year’s Catholic League title race is shaping up to be exciting, with all eight teams having winning records through the ﬁrst three weeks of the season. Six of the eight teams are undefeated, and the district has a 22-2 overall record. Listed below are eight prep football players, one from each Catholic League team, who have been difference-makers heading into district play.

Jesuit running back Michael Cerruti turns the corner against Madison Prep on Sept. 3 at Tad Gormley Stadium.

Kirby Cade, Rummel WR (Jr.)

Brandon Green, Holy Cross DB (Jr.)

Cade is averaging more than 100 yards receiving per game for a Raiders offense that’s seen its passing game take off with the addition of quarterback Colton Nussmeier. With 18 catches for 318 yards through three weeks, Cade’s breakout year has been crucial for Rummel (3-0), which has been without starting running back Jaden Terrance because of an injury.

Michael Cerruti, Jesuit RB (Jr.) Jesuit (3-0) has gotten off to a hot start with an offense featuring junior quarterbacks Sully Sullivan and Mani Vandenweghe. Cerruti has thrived as the lead running back. After piling up 167 yards rushing and two touchdowns in a 30-10 win over St. Thomas More in Week 2, Cerruti scored twice more Friday in a Week 3 blowout of Bonnabel.

Tristan DuBose, Chalmette LB/K/P (Sr.) Chalmette’s offense has averaged nearly 50 points per game with senior quarterback Breez Wilson leading the way, and DuBose has helped the 3-0 Owls shine in the other two phases. The versatile DuBose is Chalmette’s starting middle linebacker as well as the kicker and punter. He recorded 14 tackles and kicked a 38-yard ﬁeld goal in last week’s 24-6 win over Salmen.

STAFF PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER

Green has been a key part of a talented Holy Cross secondary that includes senior Stanford commitment Savoy Guidry and junior Jayden Smothers. He recorded an interception and an 83-yard kickoff return touchdown in a Week 2 win over Warren Easton. Green then recovered a fumble in overtime in a 10-7 Week 3 triumph over St. Charles to improve the Tigers’ record to 2-1.

Micah Irons, Brother Martin WR (Jr.) Brother Martin senior wide receiver Easton Royal has drawn lots of attention from opposing defenses as a ﬁve-star recruit with blazing speed, and Irons has stepped up as another dangerous receiving threat. After a two-touchdown performance in a Week 2 win over St. Paul’s, Irons caught two more TDs for Brother Martin (3-0) in Friday’s win over Warren Easton.

Marlon Jones, Edna Karr QB (Jr.) Jones and junior Forest Johnson have each had their moments this season while sharing time at quarterback for Karr (3-0), but Jones shined the brightest in Saturday’s highly anticipated matchup against Ruston. The dualthreat Jones led a fourth-quarter drive to take a lead late in a 21-14 Karr win, ﬁnishing with 77 yards rushing on nine carries.

Roderick Franklin, John Curtis LB (So.)

Patrick Robinson, St Augustine RB (Sr.)

Franklin has been a key piece on defense for Curtis (2-1) with a team-high 28 tackles. The sophomore linebacker recorded 11 tackles and a sack in a Week 1 loss to nationally ranked North Shore of Texas, and he followed up with 11 tackles in a 29-22 Week 2 win over Louisville of Mississippi.

Robinson has shined as the lead running back for St. Augustine (3-0) after missing last season with a knee injury. Robinson scored two touchdowns in a 46-0 Week 1 win over McDonogh 35, and he scored twice more in a 52-7 Week 3 win Saturday against East Ascension at the Caesars Superdome.

Three area schools have early season results listed as forfeits BY CHRISTOPHER DABE

Staff writer

McDonogh 35 and Kenner Discovery had the results from their ﬁrst three games and Jefferson Rise from its ﬁrst two games changed to forfeit losses, according to results posted on the LHSAA website. The changes reversed McDonogh 35’s Week 2 win against Booker T. Washington into a loss and reversed

Kenner Discovery’s two wins. Included among Kenner Discovery’s wins was a game against Jefferson Rise that is now listed as a double forfeit. Kenner Discovery also had its Week 3 win against Thomas Jefferson changed into a loss. McDonogh 35, Kenner Discovery and Jefferson Rise each have 0-3 records. Attempts to contact the

LHSAA and coaches or administrators at all three schools were not immediately successful. The LHSAA has previously issued forfeiture rulings following routine reviews of student transcripts and school records, though it was not immediately clear whether that was the case here. Contact Christopher Dabe at cdabe@theadvocate.com

WEEK 4 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE All games 7 p.m. unless noted.

Thursday’s games District 6-5A

Hammond at Mandeville

District 9-5A

Chalmette vs. Rummel at Yenni Holy Cross vs. Edna Karr at Morris F. X. Jeff Sr. Stadium

Nondistrict

Haynes vs. Thomas Jefferson at Memtsas, 6:30 p.m. Ellender vs. Morris Jeff at Joe Brown

Friday’s games District 6-5A

Covington at Northshore Ponchatoula at St. Paul’s Slidell at Fontainebleau

District 7-5A

H.L. Bourgeois at East St. John

District 8-5A

East Jefferson vs. Bonnabel at Yenni Higgins vs. John Ehret at Memtsas District 9-5A Jesuit vs. Brother Martin at Gormley

Nondistrict

Amite at Salmen Booker T. Washington at Springﬁeld Carver vs. Sarah Reed at Joe Brown Central Lafourche at Destrehan Country Day at Episcopal E.D. White at Shaw Fisher at Hannan Franklinton at Jewell Sumner Hahnville at Lutcher Jefferson Rise at Istrouma Kennedy vs. L.B. Landry at Morris F.X. Jeff Sr. Stadium Lakeshore at Vandebilt Catholic McDonogh 35 at Belle Chasse Pope John Paul II at Northlake Christian

Patrick Taylor vs. Kenner Discovery at Bertolino Pearl River at Pine Warren Easton at Zachary West St. John at St. Thomas Aquinas Willow at Newman Sophie B. Wright at St. Martin’s St. Charles vs. De La Salle at Pan American Varnado at Ben Franklin Young Audiences at Riverside

Saturday’s games District 8-5A

Riverdale vs. West Jefferson at Memtsas, 2 p.m.

District 9-5A

John Curtis vs. St. Augustine at Gormley, 3 p.m.

Nondistrict

Abramson vs. Cohen at Pan American, 2 p.m.

SEATTLE — Houston Astros slugger Yordan Alvarez gained some ground Tuesday night in his chase for a Triple Crown. He still has plenty of work to do this week. The AL MVP front-runner went 2 for 4 with his 41st home run and three RBIs in the Astros’ 7-0 win over the Seattle Mariners. Alvarez hit an RBI single in the ﬁrst inning, was intentionally walked in the second and then belted a 386-foot homer in the eighth with a 109.5 mph exit velocity. “At this point, I keep wondering why guys are pitching to him,” Houston first baseman Christian Walker said. “He just seems to come through in every moment. He’s dangerous at the plate right now.” Alvarez, who is quiet and shows little emotion, orchestrated a team meeting after the Astros (78-79) were swept by Atlanta on Sunday, squandering their lead in the AL West. His performance on Tuesday was much-needed to put Houston in a tie with the Texas Rangers atop the division with ﬁve games left

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By DAVID J. PHILLIP

Houston Astros designated hitter yordan Alvarez celebrates after hitting a home run against the Kansas City Royals last Thursday in Houston. this season. “He’s been backing it up all year,” Astros manager Joe Espada said. Alvarez’s two-run shot to right field tied him with Junior Caminero of the Tampa Bay Rays for the American League lead with 41 homers. Alvarez is first in batting average at .314 — five points ahead of Tampa Bay’s Chandler Simpson — and he has 102 RBIs, six behind Baltimore Orioles slugger Pete Alonso for most in the AL. Alonso drove in three runs with two homers Monday against Toronto, but the teams were rained out Tuesday in Baltimore because

of bad weather. They were scheduled to play a split doubleheader Wednesday. Alvarez has six homers since Aug. 1, and the 29-year-old designated hitter has eight RBIs over 17 games in September. He’ll need more to become baseball’s first Triple Crown winner since Miguel Cabrera in 2012. Alvarez leads the AL in slugging percentage (.601), OPS (1.032), total bases (329) and walks (106). Logan Gilbert intentionally walked Alvarez in the second inning Tuesday, which was the 33rd time for Alvarez this season, already a franchise record.

Remembering the weakest teams to make postseason BY NOAH TRISTER AP baseball writer

1987 Twins

Record: 85-77 (first in AL West) Run differential: minus-20 Postseason: Beat Detroit 4-1 in ALCS, beat St. Louis 4-3 in World Series Frank Viola was the star of a pitching staff that otherwise offered little — aside from a trio of big names on the downside of their careers. Bert Blyleven allowed 46 home runs, Joe Niekro posted a 6.26 ERA and Steve Carlton made seven largely woeful starts for this Minnesota team. The Twins could hit, though. Kirby Puckett was third in the MVP race, while Kent Hrbek, Gary Gaetti and Tom Brunansky each surpassed 30 homers. Home-field advantage wasn’t determined 1973 Mets by record back then, so MinRecord: 82-79 (first in NL nesota had it in the ALCS East); Run differential: plus-20 despite finishing 13 games Postseason: Beat Cincinnati behind the Tigers, and again 3-2 in NL Championship Se- in the World Series after beries, lost to Oakland 4-3 in ing 10 games worse than the World Series Cardinals. The Twins went The rallying cry was “Ya 6-0 at the Metrodome in the gotta believe!” from reliever postseason. Tug McGraw. It wasn’t easy when New York was in last 1995 Rockies place after an Aug. 30 loss, but Record: 77-67 (second in NL the Mets went 21-8 the rest of West, wild card) the way to win the division Run differential: Plus-2 by 11/ 2 games. Tom Seaver Postseason: Lost 3-1 to At(19-10, 2.08 ERA, 18 complete lanta in NL Division Series games) was still at the peak The first wild card in Naof his powers, and New York tional League history was held the Reds to eight runs in this Colorado team in a seafive games in the NLCS — a son shortened by the end of series best remembered for a the 1994-95 work stoppage. brawl involving Bud Harrel- The Rockies’ ERA of 4.97 son and Pete Rose. The Mets is the worst of the live ball led the World Series 3-2 and era by a postseason team in had Seaver starting Game 6, a non-DH league. Colorado but they couldn’t close out the made up for that, not surAthletics. prisingly, by leading the NL in runs. Dante Bichette led 1984 Royals the league in home runs and Record: 84-78 (first in AL RBIs and finished third in batting average. West) Run differential: minus-13 Postseason: Lost to Detroit 2005 Padres 3-0 in ALCS Record: 82-80 (first in NL The Royals were 11 games West) under .500 in the middle of Run differential: minus-42 July, but they did enough Postseason: Lost 3-0 to St. to win the AL West. George Louis in NLDS Brett hit .284 — his worst Jake Peavy and a Trevor average in a 14-year span Hoffman-led bullpen helped from 1975-88 — and he was San Diego reach the playone of just two All-Stars on offs, but this team never the team. The other was Dan looked the part. The Padres Quisenberry, who had 44 scored the fourth-fewest saves while throwing 1291/ 3 runs in all of baseball, and innings. He finished second their starters went 52-60 in the Cy Young race be- with a 4.49 ERA. In the posthind fellow reliever Willie season, San Diego never had Hernández of the Tigers. Al- the lead at any point against though Kansas City took the the 100-win Cardinals. division almost by default in Game 1 was 8-0 after six in‘84, the Royals improved to nings, Game 2 was 6-1 after 91 wins the following year seven, and Game 3 was 7-0 and won the World Series. after 41/ 2. With just a few days left in the regular season, the AL West might make a particularly mediocre kind of history. Entering Wednesday’s games, the Texas Rangers and Houston Astros were tied for first place at 78-79. No full-season division champion has ever had a losing record. In honor of that, here are eight of the weakest teams to make the postseason, listed in chronological order with their records and run differentials in mind. Note that some of them went on lengthy postseason runs — so don’t count out the Rangers or Astros just yet.

2006 Cardinals Record: 83-78 (first in NL Central) Run differential: Plus-19 Postseason: Beat San Diego 3-1 in NLDS, beat New York Mets 4-3 in NLCS, beat Detroit 4-1 in World Series The Cardinals won at least 95 games four times under Tony La Russa, but their best postseason success came as a wild card in 2011 and with this team ﬁve years earlier. St. Louis nearly blew a seven-game lead in the division in the ﬁnal two weeks of the regular season, but a roster with Albert Pujols, Scott Rolen, Chris Carpenter and a young reliever named Adam Wainwright always had a chance to get hot. Yadier Molina’s homer — and Wainwright’s strikeout of Carlos Beltrán — gave the Cardinals the pennant in an epic series with the Mets.

2017 Twins Record: 85-77 (second in AL Central, second wild card) Run differential: Plus-27 Postseason: Lost to New York Yankees in wild-card game After 103 losses in 2016, the Twins were in ﬁrst place for a little while before eventually capturing the AL’s final postseason spot and losing 8-4 to the Yankees. Byron Buxton played 140 games, the most of his career to date, and Brian Dozier hit 34 home runs. Joe Mauer had moved to first base by this point but was still quite good at the plate, batting .305. Ervin Santana led the rotation in his last good major league season.

2023 Marlins Record: 84-78 (third in NL East, second wild card) Run differential: minus-57 Postseason: Lost to Philadelphia 2-0 in NL Wild Card Series The Marlins posted the worst run differential to date by a postseason team — this year’s Astros are currently at minus-59 — but Miami went 33-14 in one-run games. The pitching staff with Sandy Alcantara, Eury Pérez, Jesús Luzardo and Braxton Garrett helped Miami into the playoffs. Of the Marlins’ top 12 players in plate appearances, seven of them finished with negative wins above replacement, according to Baseball Reference.

4C ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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Florida hopes Swamp helps slow down QB Chambliss BY MARK LONG AP sportswriter

GAINESVILLE, Fla. — Florida defensive coordinator Brad White jokingly takes credit for Trinidad Chambliss’ rise to stardom. White’s unit at Kentucky knocked Ole Miss starting quarterback Austin Simmons out of a game early last season, a right ankle injury that cleared the way for Chambliss to shine the next week and the rest of the year. “So, yeah, you’re all welcome,” White quipped. Twelve months later, White and the 21st-ranked Gators (3-0, 1-0 Southeastern Conference) have the daunting task of slowing down Chambliss — a Heisman Trophy frontrunner who is 14-2 as a starter for the fourth-ranked Rebels (30, 1-0) — and are counting on their home crowd being a factor. “This guy, he’s as good a college football player as I’ve ever seen with my own two eyes,” Florida coach Jon Sumrall said. Sumrall watched Chambliss pick apart his Tulane defense twice in 2025. Chambliss threw for 307 yards and two touchdowns and ran for 112 more in the ﬁrst victory. He threw for 282 yards and a TD and ran for two more scores in the rematch in the College Football Playoff. Now, Sumrall faces Chambliss for the third time in his last 14 games. “The one thing I do have is I’ve got enough watching the quarterback play out of his mind,” Sumrall said. “I have a lot of respect for him.” Chambliss has completed 70% of his passes for 924 yards this season, with seven touchdowns and

Continued from page 1C ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By ROGELIO V. SOLIS

room, knows the terminology. I’m just happy for him. He didn’t want to leave. He wanted to be here the whole time.” Hamilton showed up in shape. He worked out with a training group in Dallas before the draft and continued to grind every day to make sure he was ready for whatever opportunity arose. It turned out to be Tulane, where he already had graduated with a degree in kinesiology and is pursuing a master’s in sports administration. His experience on the ﬁeld is a boon for his teammates. “It gives us a sense of security knowing you’ve got a guy that has been in this defense and our system,” said outside linebacker Jah’rie Garner, a fourth-year se-

nior who started for the ﬁrst time against Duke. “He’s like a brother to me, and I feel like he didn’t lose a step. He came back better and stronger.” He also is much more relaxed in a media setting. When he conducted his ﬁrst interview three years ago, he was accompanied by a Tulane speech language pathologist to help him answer questions. After Wednesday’s practice, he talked on his own with no hesitation. His joy at getting another year courtesy of the court order is palpable. “I was very worried,” he said. “It was a stressful time, but when I found out I was good, I was really happy. Every morning I am loud out there playing ball. I’m just ready to be here every day.”

But what of LSU? The Tigers are, as has been well-documented, in their first year under Lane Kiffin. In college football’s traditionbound past, a new coach would get a grace period to build up his program through high school recruiting and perhaps a sprinkle of junior-college transfers. That’s no longer the case. The NIL/transfer portal era radically has altered expectations, sending them soaring. There is very little sentimentality left for building for the future. With all the money being thrown around, the future is quite literally now. Another pressure point is the totally unexpected success of Indiana in its first two seasons under Curt Cignetti. Literally the program with the most losses in FBS history, Cignetti transformed the downtrodden Hoosiers into a College Football Playoff team in his first season in 2024, then led them to one of the most surprising national championships ever with a 16-0 record last season. It wasn’t a fluke, either, as Indiana’s Rose Bowl victim Alabama (38-3) could attest. If it could be done at former basketball power/football doormat Indiana, college football fans logically assume it can be done anywhere. To win on a major scale, LSU has opened up a football version of Fort Knox. First the school fired Brian Kelly after a 49-25 debacle of a loss to A&M 11 months ago, telling him to get lost despite owing him a $54 million buyout. Then it hired Kiffin away from CFP-bound Ole Miss with a $91 million, seven-year deal, plus the various buyouts and payments LSU had to make to get rid of Kelly’s staff and bring in Kiffin’s. Then there’s the LSU roster. The Athletic ranked the top-10 spenders in college football coming into this season. It pegged LSU fourth at between $47 million and $50 million, behind only Ohio State ($49 million to $54 million), Oregon ($48 million to $54 million) and SEC rival Texas ($45 million to $55 million). Texas A&M, by the way, is right behind LSU at $45 million to $50 million. You think the prices at the pump are bad? It’s truly astounding to think how costs have skyrocketed in college sports. The Athletic went on to say that Arkansas spent less this season than any other SEC team ($22 million to $25 million), but that’s still more than the $18 million Kelly said LSU spent on what was expected to be a competi-

Wade said he likes where his team is in the offseason, despite three of four players still facing hurdles in guaranteeing their eligibility. He didn’t specify which players those were and said he didn’t want to dissect each case specifically. Wade also didn’t say when he’ll officially announce his full roster, only that the holdup is in a few players’ best interests. “I could release it today, but there’s some reasons why I’m not,” he said. “I’m not saying you have to agree with it, but it’s in the best interest of a couple of the players. “We’ll make sure we get the roster updated when we feel like it’s in the best interest of all those guys.” Wade understands there’s probably “some frustration” with how the roster appears to be in flux as LSU nears its first exhibition game against McNeese State at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 8 at Townsley Law Arena in Lake Charles. There’s a real possibility the roster won’t be finalized by then, and Wade could be missing players. “No matter how our roster looks, we got five guys we’re gonna go play the game,” said

Wade, who coached McNeese from 2023-25 and led the Cowboys to back-to-back NCAA Tournament berths. “We’re not going to chicken out. We’re not going to, ‘You know, because we don’t have everybody.’ ” He expects to have an answer on every player’s status by the ﬁrst game. Wade didn’t list all 15 players who practiced Wednesday. When counting the four players LSU has announced, the players reported and confirmed by The Advocate, the players who announced on social media and those Wade discussed, 14 players are known to be joining the team. LSU has four international commitments: 22-year-old Italian-Senegalese wing Saliou Niang, 23-year-old French center Brice Dessert, 19-year-old Croatian forward Michael Ruzic and 24-year-old Israeli center Gilad Levy. Wade said LSU no longer will have Brazilian center Marcio Santos on the team. When asked why, he said, “You’d have to ask the NCAA on that.” Wade has one incoming high school recruit in 6-8 forward Jordan Bender, who does not have a

proﬁle on any major recruiting sites. The Tigers have seven transfer portal additions in point guard Donovan Dent (UCLA), combo guard Skyy Clark (UCLA), forward Mo Dioubate (Kentucky), shooting guard Abdi Bashir (Kansas State), point guard Divine Ugochukwu (Michigan State), combo guard Austin Nunez (Texas-San Antonio) and guard Luke Stansbury (Stephen F. Austin), the son of associate head coach Rick Stansbury and likely a walk-on. Dent and Clark are fifth-year players who gained eligibility after being among more than 70 players granted a temporary restraining order in an age-based eligibility lawsuit ﬁled in California against the NCAA. That ruling is unaffected by the NCAA’s request to stay the class-wide preliminary injunction in Colorado. Luis is eligible through the courts after going undrafted in the 2025 NBA Draft, signing a two-way NBA contract and playing in preseason games. He was among the group Wade referenced without naming who still have eligibility hurdles.

Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss attempts to pass against LSU during the first half in Oxford, Miss., on Saturday. The Rebels travel to face Florida this Saturday. ä Ole Miss at Florida 2:30 P.M. SATURDAy,ABC

two interceptions. He also has two rushing scores. And two of his performances were against ranked teams: Louisville and LSU. Of course, those took place at a neutral site (Nashville, Tennessee against Louisville) and at home in Oxford, Mississippi, vs. LSU. Playing at Florida Field, better known as the Swamp, could present a tougher challenge. “The main thing is just keeping the momentum,” Florida linebacker Aaron Chiles said. “Let the crowd do everything. Whatever

team comes into the Swamp, it’s going to be hard for them to play, communicate, things like that. So I think the Swamp is deﬁnitely a big advantage, especially this week.” Plenty of opposing quarterbacks have wilted at Florida Field over the years. Texas QB Arch Manning threw two interceptions and was sacked six times in a 29-21 loss in Gainesville last season. Tennessee QB Joe Milton (2023), Missouri QB Brady Cook (2022), Auburn QB Bo Nix (2019), LSU QB Joe Burrow (2018), Missouri QB Drew Lock (2016) and South Carolina QB Connor Shaw (2012) also struggled in the Swamp.

Continued from page 1C

WADE

Continued from page 1C normal, he understands why LSU basketball appears “chaotic and hectic on the outside.” He acknowledged the “unconventional” approach he’s taken, delaying the release of his full roster while assembling a team with multiple overseas commitments and players trying to gain eligibility through lawsuits against the NCAA. Wade doesn’t think untraditional methods mean the Tigers are bound to fail. He also said he’s comfortable being told he’s wrong if the 2026-27 season ﬂops. “If it doesn’t work, write about what an idiot I am,” he said. “Like I told our guys, we’re going to be unconventional. We’re going to be unapologetic about it. “Everybody’s waiting for us to fail. That’s ﬁne. If we fail, I own it. But I felt this was the best way to try to deliver a championship team for LSU from the jump that gives us the best chance to jump-start our program. We ain’t gonna be worse than we been. I mean, hell, what’s the downside?”

LSU could be without a couple of key defensive backs Saturday against Texas A&M. Safety Tamarcus Cooley was listed as questionable in Wednesday’s initial availability report released by the Southeastern Conference. Cornerback Ja’Keem Jackson, who had an interception Saturday at Ole Miss, was listed as doubtful. Tight end Trey’Dez Green and safety Dashawn Spears were unsurprisingly listed as out alongside receiver Phillip Wright. LSU coach Lane Kiffin has confirmed Wright is one of a handful of Tigers out for the season with an injury. Spears is also reportedly out for the year with a torn ACL, though Kiffin hasn’t directly confirmed that or commented on Green’s timeline. Green injured his knee at Ole Miss but, according to a Facebook post by his mother, he didn’t suffer any ligament tears. Cooley just had a season-high five tackles and a pass breakup at Ole Miss. Jon Blau

RABALAIS

TULANE

navigated life away from his comfort zone in Zachary. In another sense, he has not changed much at all. His love for football remains infectious, and he is incredibly thankful to get another opportunity to play with his friends and possibly improve his pro stock. Although he participated in workouts with the Saints and Arizona after going undrafted in April, he never signed an NFL contract, making his reunion with the Wave possible. Even better, he is at his favorite position. Former coach Jon Sumrall’s staff moved him to end the past two years after he played primarily inside under Willie Fritz as a freshman and sophomore. “I’m back to the Kam Ham spot,” he said with a huge smile. “I’m really happy to be inside where I can be more violent. I feel more comfortable there.” Easing back into competition after only two weeks of practice, Hamilton came off the bench against Duke to make his first tackle in the third quarter. He has picked up the pace since then, combining agility with strength while fighting off double teams with his 6-foot-4, 296-pound frame. His four stops against South Alabama were tied for the third most in his career. “It’s just a big-time blessing for us to be able to add a true-blue Tulane guy back into our building,” coach Will Hall said. “He is us. We are him. He comes right back in and knows our values, knows our

PAIR OF LSU DBS ON AVAILABILITY REPORT

STAFF FILE PHOTO By BRETT DUKE

Southeastern running back Harlan Dixon loses the ball as Tulane defensive end Kam Hamilton brings him down during the first half on Aug. 29, 2024, at yulman Stadium.

STAFF PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

LSU coach Lane Kiffin reacts to a call during a game against Ole Miss on Saturday at VaughtHemingway Stadium in Oxford, Miss.

tive roster in 2025. But back to Kiffin’s Tigers. Is it fair to have a playoff-or-bust attitude when assessing his first season in Baton Rouge? Whether or not it’s fair, it is. You could get a pass for a near miss at the four-team CFP, as it was when LSU won the title in 2019. In the 12-team era, for schools spending like LSU, it’s truly pass/fail. In major league terms, LSU’s spending equals that of the Philadelphia Phillies, who rank fourth in pro baseball. The Phillies are solidly ensconced in the playoffs as a National League wild-card team with one weekend remaining. Spending, of course, doesn’t guarantee winning. The New York Mets have the MLB’s biggest payroll — $357.6 million compared to the two-time World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers at $322.4 million — and Wednesday were well outside the playoff picture at a dismal 72-85. Injuries certainly play a part, and LSU left Oxford with two big ones in defensive back Dashawn Spears (season-ending) and tight end Trey’Dez Green (will likely be back at some point). Kiffin has been talking a lot about those injuries as if to soften the blow if LSU should come up short in the CFP chase. “We got some unfortunate injuries with some special, critical players,” he said on Wednesday’s SEC coaches’ teleconference. Injuries are a factor for any would-be playoff contender. And LSU has a very good chance to build on this year’s roster — which has depth issues in spots and holes on the offensive line — for 2027. Kiffin has said he anticipates many of this year’s 43 transfers to return next season. But the imperative is now, especially when you consider that it may be more difficult to rally the financial support for another major spending spree next season if LSU doesn’t make it this season. The implications for LSU football, like this year’s football roster budget, are quite enormous.

The SEC implemented rules preventing member schools from rostering athletes who were professionals. Luis clearly breaks two rules after going through the NBA draft and signing an NBA or G League contract. “With him, we’re gonna go through the process,” Wade said. “We’re going to abide by what the SEC tells us to abide by. We’re not trying to do anything untoward toward any of that. So we’re going to go through processes, and we’ll see where that ends up.” Wade said he expects this roster-building approach to be a “one-year deal,” returning to the traditional way of recruiting more high school players. When asked about his and LSU’s perception as a controversial program, he said it helps the program in some ways. “In a weird way — and this is what’s so crazy about it — it really helps us in recruiting,” he said. “The more you write bad about us, the more people are like, ‘Oh man, I kind of want to see what these guys are about.’ ” Email Toyloy Brown III at toyloy.brown@theadvocate.com

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ 5C

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Raiders’ 2-0 start driven by pass rush BY W.G. RAMIREZ Associated Press

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By KATIE CHIN

Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins throws a pass during a game against the Los Angeles Chargers in Inglewood, Calif., on Sunday.

Moore marvels at draft mate Cousins’ career

BY MATTHEW PARAS and LUKE JOHNSON

fact about him and Cousins: The two were on the same Senior Bowl team ahead of the 2012 draft. Staff writer “We spent a lot of time (toKellen Moore issued a friendly re- gether) going between that kind minder when asked Wednesday of college-to-NFL phase,” Moore about the longevity of Las Vegas said. Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins. The New Orleans Saints coach No Brown noted he and Cousins are the The New Orleans Saints have same age. just four receivers on their 53“We came out together from man roster, and only three of college to the NFL,” Moore said. them practiced Wednesday. “He’s awesome. I think the world Sixth-round rookie Barion Brown of Kirk. He’s a really special per- did not participate in Wednesson, special player. He’s had a day’s practice as he deals with a hamstring injury. The wide phenomenal career.” That career has landed Cousins receiver suffered the injury in in Vegas with Sunday’s win over the Baltimore former Saints Ravens, Moore said. Notebook Brown was one of three aboffensive coordinator Klint sences for the Saints, joining Kubiak, whom the Raiders hired cornerback Martin Emerson (shoulin the offseason after the coach der) and defensive tackle Christen served as the play-caller for the Miller (toe). Practice squad wide Super Bowl champion Seattle Se- receiver Trey Palmer (undisclosed) also missed practice and has yet ahawks. Thanks to the pairing, the Raid- to practice this season. There were also several signiﬁers are off to a surprising 2-0 start ahead of Sunday’s game in cant players listed as limited, inNew Orleans. The 38-year-old cluding running back Travis Etienne Cousins has thrown for 413 yards (hamstring), defensive end Chase and a league-high six touchdowns Young (calf), safety Jonas Sanker to just three interceptions. (knee) and defensive lineman NaMoore and Cousins took differ- than Shepherd (hip). Although the Saints had only ent trajectories as pros. While Cousins is on his fourth team three healthy receivers Wednesacross 15 years and 169 starts, day, several practice-squad memMoore is in his second year lead- bers contributed. Kevin Austin, Jalen ing the Saints after entering the Cropper, Kyrese Rowan and Cedric Tillman coaching ranks in 2018 after a were seen participating during six-year stint as a backup quar- the individual portion of practice that was open to reporters. terback. If Brown can’t play in Sunday’s Moore also shared another fun

home opener against the Raiders, that also would be a blow to special teams. In the upset over Baltimore, Brown returned a kick for 53 yards just before halftime, setting up a Saints ﬁeld goal and making it a one-possession game heading into the break.

Banks to IR The Saints officially placed promising young tackle Kelvin Banks on injured reserve Wednesday in order to sign a new long snapper to their active roster. Banks suffered an ankle injury during the third quarter Sunday. He was carted off the ﬁeld shortly after his injury, and Moore said he is slated for surgery this week to correct the issue. The No. 9 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft started each of the Saints’ 17 games last season, leading the team in snaps played. By going on IR, Banks will miss a minimum of four games, but his recovery from the ankle injury is expected to take much more time, with him potentially returning late in the season. Veteran Asim Richards will step in at left tackle. New Orleans needed to make a move to clear room for long snapper Cam Adomitis on the active roster. Last week, that job belonged to Scott Daly, who ﬁlled in for the injured Zach Wood. But because Daly was on the practice squad, the Chicago Bears were able to sign him to their active roster. Email Matthew Paras at matt. paras@theadvocate.com

SAINTS

Continued from page 1C it’s more momentum to keep going.” All of the Saints’ successful third-down plays against the Ravens came with three receivers on the field and Shough in the shotgun. In that mode, Shough hasn’t always had to create. He’s shown savvy in directing the protection plans to account for blitzes, and he’s gotten the ball out of his hands quickly. The best example was the thirdand-8 late in the game that set up the Saints’ go-ahead touchdown, when Shough stood tall as Trey Hendrickson barreled toward him from the backside to fire an ontarget pass to Juwan Johnson that allowed his tight end the room to break tackles and pick up 25 yards. But Shough also did it a few series earlier when he zipped a perfect quick out to Chris Olave on a third-and-5, placing the ball just right so Olave could run after the catch for 11 yards. But Shough isn’t alone. The Saints offense has come through in the most difficult situations. Midway through the second quarter, with the Saints still looking for their first points and facing a third-and-8 from Baltimore’s 33, the Ravens sent AllPro linebacker Roquan Smith to blitz through the A gap. Saints undrafted rookie running back C.J. Donaldson wiped Smith out of the play completely, giving Shough a wide-open lane to fire an 11-yard completion to Olave on a dig route. “I thought Tyler, the offensive unit as a whole, did a better job

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By NICK WASS

Saints quarterback Tyler Shough passes under pressure from Baltimore Ravens defensive tackle Travis Jones in the first half on Sunday in Baltimore. against pressure this week as far as being on the same page and communicating,” coach Kellen Moore said. “I thought that showed up in some of those critical situations.” Even when some plays look dead on arrival, the Saints have made them work. Facing a third-and-13 from the Saints 36, Shough dropped back into a clean pocket and didn’t like what he saw — six Baltimore defenders covering deep zones, leaving no room for any of the three vertical routes. So he flipped his hips and found Johnson, who had released his block and drifted into the flat. Johnson caught the ball and saw a lot of green grass, sprinting up the sideline for 25 yards before the Ravens were able to push him out of bounds. This isn’t especially new: As a rookie, Shough finished with the

third-highest passer rating on third-and-long (113.9) among NFL passers with at least 30 attempts. Shough brushed off the idea that facing difficult odds brings out the best in him. He said he and his teammates approach those situations the same as they would any other play: Go through the presnap process, analyze what they see and adjust once the pieces start moving. “There’s also an element of playing ball; you have to extend plays sometimes,” Shough said. “Then there’s also the side of it to where you’ve got to put the ball in play and let the playmakers go get some (yards after the catch). Sometimes it’s a check-down, sometimes it’s a big (play). “More than anything, it comes to preparation.” Email Luke Johnson at ljohnson@theadvocate.com.

LAS VEGAS — The Las Vegas Raiders’ 2-0 start has been powered by an offense finding the end zone and a defense making quarterbacks increasingly uncomfortable. Through two weeks, the Raiders are tied for the NFL lead with eight sacks, including five in their season-opening victory over Miami and three more during Sunday’s 2614 win over the Los Angeles Chargers. Even more encouraging for defensive line coach Travis Smith is how Las Vegas has created that disruption without relying heavily on blitzes. The production extends beyond perennial Pro Bowl edge rusher Maxx Crosby. For Crosby, that reflects the work of the entire defensive line and its coach. “I think the best feeling that we have as a unit is just by playing together, trusting coach,” Crosby said. “Trav’s been amazing. For our D-line group, he’s an incredible coach. He’s holding everyone accountable. We have a certain style of play that we want to play, and that’s the standard and what we do.” While pressure estimates vary by analytics provider, the Raiders applied pressure on 38.7% of Chargers drop-backs and rank first in the NFL at 45.6% through two games, per Pro Football Reference. “Numbers and sacks and TFL, stuff like that, they come in bunches; you put the work in and those come,” Crosby said. “And for me, seeing my teammates ball-out and do our thing and helping us play really efficiently on defense, that’s all that matters.” The ability to generate pressure without sending extra defenders has strengthened every level of the defense. Defensive coordinator Rob Leonard can keep seven play-

ers in coverage, crowd throwing windows and force quarterbacks to hold the football while Crosby, Kwity Paye and the rest of the defensive front attack with four. Against Justin Herbert, that formula produced more than sacks. The pressure disrupted timing and complemented a coverage effort in which rookie cornerback Hezekiah Masses had two interceptions. Masses, the first Raiders rookie with multiple interceptions in one game since Henry Williams in 1979, allowed only two receptions for 16 yards on six targets to earn AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors. “It’s been a huge part to the ﬁrst part of the season, these victories, these team victories,” coach Klint Kubiak said about the pass rush. “They have the attention of the other side of the ball. We just got to keep working to get better, and every week is a whole new game.” Crosby remains the centerpiece because his relentless motor and reputation command extra attention. But these Raiders are no longer asking him to manufacture every disruptive play. Paye’s arrival, Leonard’s scheme and contributions throughout the front have given Las Vegas something it has lacked in recent seasons: a pass rush capable of attacking in waves. Two games represent a small sample, and an upcoming road game against the New Orleans Saints will provide another test. But eight sacks and a strong pressure rate provide tangible evidence. “We play a certain style of play that we want to play, and that’s the standard and what we do and how we approach everything — an elite standard of dominance,” Crosby said. “That’s what’s translated so far, but it hasn’t been our best. We know there’s a lot of room to improve, and we got a lot of football to play.”

QB Penix provides Falcons hope vs. sputtering Packers BY STEVE MEGARGEE

ä Falcons at Packers.

GREEN BAY, Wis. — Michael Penix’s return comes at a time when the winless Atlanta Falcons need someone to provide a jolt for their lifeless offense. The Atlanta offense couldn’t reach the red zone as the Falcons opened the season with losses to the Pittsburgh Steelers and Carolina Panthers. The Falcons were the first team since the Rams in 2008 not to run any plays from inside an opponent’s 20-yard line through the first two games of a season. Penix now is back from a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. The 26-year-old quarterback is ready to play his first game since Nov. 16 on Thursday night as the Falcons visit the Green Bay Packers. “I’ve been working extremely hard to get to this point,” Penix said. “Man, this has been a long journey.” Atlanta (0-2) needs the boost that Penix will try to provide. Cooper Rush and Jack Strand threw a combined five interceptions with one touchdown pass — a 23-yarder from Rush to Bijan Robinson in Week 1 — while Penix worked his way back. The Packers expect to face a more capable Atlanta offense now that Penix is back. “He’s a quarterback that’s gone in there and played really solid

football,” Packers coach Matt LaFleur said. “So I would bet that their offense is going to look a little bit different Thursday night.” Green Bay (1-1) has concerns of its own. All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons is recovering from a torn ACL and running back Josh Jacobs remains on the commissioner’s exempt list. Wide receiver Jayden Reed and offensive tackle Zach Bako-Bewele were carted off the ﬁeld during the Packers’ 20-17 overtime victory over the New York Jets on Sunday. Bako-Bewele tore his patellar tendon and will miss the rest of the season. Reed’s potential return from a neck injury is unknown. The injury to Bako-Bewele creates more adversity for an offensive line that hasn’t established a rhythm yet. Left guard Aaron Banks also won’t be available Thursday because of knee and toe issues. Packers quarterback Jordan Love said all those injuries up front shouldn’t change the expectations. “I expect those guys to go out there and put their best foot forward and give me time to be able to go out there and try dicing a defense up,” Love said. “That’s the expectations, whoever’s out there. Nothing changes.”

AP sportswriter

7:15 P.M. THURSDAy, PRIME.

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By LyNNE SLADKy

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Penix warms up before a preseason game against the Miami Dolphins on Aug. 28 in Miami Gardens, Fla.

6C ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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Zion denies rape allegations in Los Angeles court ﬁling

CHUCK SCHILKEN

Los Angeles Times (TNS) New Orleans Pelicans star Zion Williamson had a “friendly and casual ‘friends with benefits’ sexual relationship” with the woman who is accusing him of raping and abusing her multiple times between 2018-23, according to a court filing by the former Duke standout’s legal team. A document submitted to Los Angeles County Superior Court on Monday states that Williamson denies “each and every allegation” made against him by a Jane Doe in a second amended complaint filed in June. Williamson’s filing describes the interaction between the former No. 1 overall draft pick and his accuser as “infrequent and sporadic.” “All interaction among and between the Plaintiff and Defendant was pleasant and entirely consensual, with the Plaintiff initiating

and communicating her desire to be intimate with the Defendant,” the document states, “and the Plaintiff herself decided to end the relationship because she became upset when she realized that the Defendant was focusing his time and energy on professional basketball and on being a father, and did not have sufﬁcient time or interest to maintain a relationship with the Plaintiff.” The second amended complaint lists the causes of action as assault, battery, sexual battery, intentional inﬂiction of emotional distress, domestic violence and stalking. The response from Williamson’s team states that the statute of limitations has expired on each cause of action. The initial complaint, filed in May 2025, also included false imprisonment and conversion as causes of action, which are not included in the latest complaint. The lawsuit provides details of

two instances in 2020 during which Williamson allegedly raped his accuser in a Beverly Hills apartment he was renting at the time. “These two incidents were not isolated,” the lawsuit states. “Defendant continued to abuse, rape, assault, and batter Plaintiff in California and other states, including Louisiana and Texas, until the relationship ended in 2023.” The lawsuit also alleges that Williamson committed many other acts of violence against his accuser, including strangling her multiple times to the point that she lost consciousness, suffocating or smothering her, striking and kicking her “with great force,” threatening to kill her and her family members, and pointing a loaded ﬁrearm to her head. Williamson “was either drunk or on cocaine” while allegedly committing many of those acts, the lawsuit states. A jury trial has been scheduled for April 2028.

SCOREBOARD Odds NFL Thursday

FAVORITE OPEN TODAY O/U UNDERDOG at GREEN BAY 7½ 5½ (43½) Atlanta

Sunday

FAVORITE OPEN TODAY O/U UNDERDOG Seattle 3½ 7 (40½) at WASH. at GIANTS 3 2½ (39½) Tennessee Kansas City 7 11½ (46½) at MIAMI Carolina 2½ 2½ (42½) at CLEVE. at J’VILLE 1½ 2½ (45½) New Eng. Cincinnati 1½ 3½ (42½) at PITTS. Houston 2½ 2½ (42½) at INDIANA. at DETROIT 9½ 6½ (47½) NY Jets at BUFFALO 2½ 7½ (50½) LA Chargers Minnesota 1½ 1½ (42½) at TAMPA at SAN FRAN. 11½ 8½ (47½) Arizona at N.O. 3 3½ (43½) Las Vegas Baltimore 2½ 3½ (52½) at DALLAS LA Rams 3 2½ (45½) at DENVER

Monday

FAVORITE OPEN TODAY O/U UNDERDOG Philadelphia 1½ 4½ (41½) at CHICAGO

College football Thursday

OPEN TODAY O/U UNDERDOG 1½ 2½ (50½)at C. CAROLN

FAVORITE Army Navy at RUTGERS at INDIANA Clemson

OPEN TODAY O/U UNDERDOG 3½ 3 (48½) at TEMPLE 12½ 7 (51½) at UAB 42½ 42½ (53½) Howard 23½ 21 (49½) N’western 1½ 1½ (50½) at CAL

Saturday

FAVORITE OPEN TODAY O/U UNDERDOG at OHIO ST. 26½ 27½ (54½) Illinois at PITT, 49½ 52½ (61½) Bucknell Texas 6½ 4½ (55½) at TENN. at BAYLOR 6½ 10 (55½) Colorado at LOUISVLLE 13½ 12½ (58½) Wake Forest at KENT ST. 3½ 3½ (50½) Ball St. at TEX. TECH 40½ 34½ (55½) Sam Hou. UNLV 13½ 13½ (52½) at AKRON at UTSA 10½ 13½ (58½) Colorado St. Virginia Tech 14½ 14 (48½) at BO. COLL. at TOLEDO 3½ 3 (52½) S.D. St. at KENT. 20½ 20½ (54½) S. Alabama at E. MICH. 28½ 26½ (50½) Lindenwood UCLA 1½ 1½ (56½) at MARY. Notre Dame 27½ 27½ (58½) at PURDUE at GA. ST. 8½ 10½ (55½) N. Illinois Hawaii 5½ 3 (44½) at WYOMING at FLA. ST. 43½ 44½ (60½) C. Arkansas at MIAMI (OH) 5½ 3½ (51½) UConn TCU 1½ 3 (48½) at UCF at GEORGIA 10 14 (44½) Oklahoma at DUKE 43½ 43½ (61½) Will. & Mary Utah 11½ 8 (48½) at IOWA ST. Boise St. 7½ 7 (50½) at W. MICH. New Mexico 13½ 11½ (48½) at N.M. ST. at FLORIDA 1½ 3½ (58½) Ole Miss at MICHIGAN 4½ 5½ (38½) Iowa at BUFFALO 28½ 28½ (44½) R. Morris at OHIO 37½ 32½ (52½) Stonehill at MARSHLL 26½ 24½ (51½) Gard.-Webb Houston 20½ 18½ (56½) at GA. SOUTH. at E. CARO. 31½ 34½ (54½) N.C. Central at AUBURN 8½ 9½ (54½) Vanderbilt at PENN ST. 11½ 10 (44½) Wisconsin Nebraska 5½ 5½ (49½) at MICH. ST. South Florida 14½ 17½ (49½) at B. GREEN J. Madison 1½ 6 (44½) at OLD DOM. at Fiu 34½ 33½ (51½) LIU at VIRGINIA 21½ 19½ (52½) Delaware at TEXAS ST. 30½ 30½ (64½) UIW UL 13½ 10½ (49½) at CHAR. at MIAMI (Fla.) 42½ 41½ (53½) C. Mich. at J’VILLE ST. 12½ 7½ (51½) M. Tenn. at TULANE 16½ 18½ (52½) So. Miss at W. VA. 2½ 1½ (60½) Okla. St. Kansas St. 6½ 6½ (55½) at CINC. at ALABAMA 11½ 12½ (53½) S. Carolina at ARK. ST. 5½ 6½ (52½) Kenn. St. at W. KENT. 37½ 39½ (55½) Mercyhurst Arizona 12½ 10½ (48½) at WASH. ST. Oregon 5½ 3 (62½) at USC at UTAH ST. 1½ 3 (47½) Troy at N. TEXAS 38½ 38½ (58½) Hou.Christian at LSU 3 8½ (51½) Texas A&M at NC ST. 11½ 14 (55½) App. St. at MISS. ST. 1½ 6½ (58½) Missouri Fla. Atlantic 11½ 13½ (57½) at ULM at ARKANSAS 10½ 7 (50½) Tulsa UMass 5½ 3½ (48½) at SACR. ST. at SMU 34½ 34½ (60½) Missouri St. Oregon St. 10½ 10½ (55½) at UTEP at FRESNO 12½ 13½ (44½) Rice Georgia Tech 5½ 3½ (48½) at STANFORD Air Force 3½ 5½ (50½) at NEVADA at WASH. 8½ 9½ (46½) Minn.

Major League Baseball Thursday

American League FAVORITE LINE at KANSAS CITY OFF at BOSTON OFF at N.Y YANKEES -150 at ATHLETICS OFF at SEATTLE OFF National League FAVORITE LINE at PITTSBURGH -160 at CHICAGO CUBS -198 Arizona -164 at PHILADELPHIA OFF at ATLANTA -217 at LA DODGERS -169 Interleague FAVORITE LINE N.Y Mets -111

Pct .744 .721 .698 .605 .386 .372 .372 .186

GB — 1 2 6 15½ 16 16 24

Tuesday’s games

Washington 79, Connecticut 69 Chicago 97, Toronto 85 Indiana 96, Minnesota 77 Golden St. at Portland, n Portland 90, Golden State 82, OT

Wednesday’s games Atlanta 83, New York 65 Dallas at Seattle, n

Thursday’s games

Toronto at Connecticut, 6 p.m. Chicago at Washington, 6:30 p.m. Indiana at Minnesota, 7p.m. Golden State at Los Angeles, 9 p.m. Las Vegas at Phoenix, 9 p.m.

Pro football AMERICAN CONFERENCE East

Buffalo New England N.Y. Jets Miami South Jacksonville Tennessee Houston Indianapolis North Cincinnati Baltimore Pittsburgh Cleveland West Kansas City Las Vegas Denver L.A. Chargers

W 2 1 1 0

L 0 1 1 2

T Pct PF PA 0 1.000 77 62 0 .500 30 16 0 .500 40 30 0 .000 26 62

W 1 0 0 0

L 1 2 2 2

T 0 0 0 0

W 2 1 1 1

L 0 1 1 1

T Pct PF PA 0 1.000 53 33 0 .500 58 47 0 .500 23 33 0 .500 33 53

W 2 2 1 0

L 0 0 1 2

T Pct PF PA 0 1.000 64 40 0 1.000 53 27 0 .500 30 44 0 .000 28 52

W 2 1 1 0

L 0 1 1 2

T Pct PF PA 0 1.000 48 42 0 .500 34 48 0 .500 57 48 0 .000 42 61

W 1 1 0 0

L 1 1 2 2

T 0 0 0 0

W 2 1 1 1

L 0 1 1 1

T Pct PF PA 0 1.000 48 25 0 .500 62 71 0 .500 62 46 0 .500 42 56

W 2 2 1 1

L 0 0 1 1

T Pct PF PA 0 1.000 44 17 0 1.000 62 20 0 .500 35 33 0 .500 33 45

NATIONAL CONFERENCE

East

Philadelphia N.Y. Giants Dallas Washington South Carolina New Orleans Tampa Bay Atlanta North Minnesota Detroit Chicago Green Bay West Seattle San Francisco L.A. Rams Arizona

Thursday’s game

Pct PF PA .500 47 30 .000 30 47 .000 37 56 .000 53 74

Pct PF PA .500 71 62 .500 54 48 .000 46 56 .000 16 54

Atlanta at Green Bay, 7:15 p.m.

Sunday’s games

Carolina at Cleveland, noon Cincinnati at Pittsburgh, noon Houston at Indianapolis, noon Kansas City at Miami, noon L.A. Chargers at Buffalo, noon N.Y. Jets at Detroit, noon New England at Jacksonville, noon Seattle at Washington, noon Tennessee at N.Y. Giants, noon Arizona at San Francisco, 3:05 p.m. Minnesota at Tampa Bay, 3:05 p.m. Baltimore vs. Dallas at Rio de Janeiro, 3:25 p.m. Las Vegas at New Orleans, 3:25 p.m. L.A. Rams at Denver, 7:20 p.m.

Monday’s game

Philadelphia at Chicago, 7:15 p.m.

College football National schedule Thursday’s games SOUTH

Liberty (2-1) at Coastal Carolina (1-2), 6:30 p.m.

Friday’s games EAST

Army (1-1) at Temple (1-2), 3 p.m. Howard (1-2) at Rutgers (0-3), 6 p.m.

State schedule

UNDERDOG White Sox Cleveland Tampa Bay Houston LA Angels

LINE OFF OFF +127 OFF OFF

UNDERDOG St. Louis Miami at COLORADO Milwaukee Cincinnati San Diego

LINE +135 +165 +134 OFF +180 +140

UNDERDOG at TEXAS

LINE -110

Pro basketball WNBA glance EASTERN CONFERENCE x-Atlanta x-Indiana x-Washington x-New York Chicago Toronto Connecticut

L 11 12 13 17 27 27 27 35

NFL glance

FAVORITE Liberty

Friday

WESTERN CONFERENCE W x-Minnesota 32 x-Golden State 31 x-Las Vegas 30 x-Dallas 26 Portland 17 Phoenix 16 Los Angeles 16 Seattle 8 x-clinched playoff spot

W 30 28 27 26 16 11 10

L 14 15 16 18 27 32 33

Pct .682 .651 .628 .591 .372 .256 .233

GB — 1½ 2½ 4 13½ 18½ 19½

Saturday’s games

Lamar (2-1) at Nicholls (2-2), 3 p.m. UL (2-1) at Charlotte (0-3), 5:30 p.m. East Texas A&M (1-3) at McNeese (1-3), 6 p.m. Okla. Panhandle St. (2-2) at Louisiana Christian (3-1), 6 p.m. Prairie View (1-3) vs. Grambling (2-1) at Dallas, 6 p.m. Southeastern (2-2) at Northwestern St. (0-4), 6 p.m. Southern (2-2) at Jackson St. (3-0), 6 p.m. Southern Miss (1-2) at Tulane (1-2), 6 p.m. Texas A&M (2-1) at LSU (2-1), 6:30 p.m. FAU (2-1) at UL-Monroe (0-3), 7 p.m.

Transactions MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL

American League BALTIMORE ORIOLES — Recalled LF Heston Kjerstad and RHP Trey Gibson from Norfolk (IL). Optioned LHP Luis De León to Norfolk. Placed C Samuel Basallo on the 7-day IL, retroactive to Sept. 22. BOSTON RED SOX — Reinstated CF Ceddanne Rafaela from the 10-day IL. Optioned LF Nate Eaton to Worcester (IL). CLEVELAND GUARDIANS — Reinstated RHP Shawn Armstrong from the 60-day IL. Designated RHP Connor Brogdon for assignment.

HOUSTON ASTROS — Selected the contract of LHP Josh Hendrickson from Sugar Land (PCL). Placed RHP Cristian Javier on the 15-day IL. Placed CF Jake Meyers on the 60-day IL. MINNESOTA TWINS — Sent C Alex Jackson outright to St. Paul (IL). TAMPA BAY RAYS — Recalled RHP Mason Englert from Durham (IL). Optioned RHP Alex Cook to Durham. TEXAS RANGERS — Recalled RHP Gavin Collyer from Round Rock (PCL). Optioned RHP Winston Santos to ACL Rangers. TORONTO BLUE JAYS — Recalled RHPs CJ Van Eyk and Chase Lee from Buffalo (IL). Optioned RHP José Rodríguez to FCL Blue Jays. Placed RHP Dylan Cease on the 15day IL, retroactive to Sept. 20. National League ATLANTA BRAVES — Reinstated RHP Robert Suarez from the 60-day IL. Optioned RHP Owen Murphy to Gwinnett (IL). LOS ANGELES DODGERS — Reinstated LHP Tarik Skubal from the bereavement list and TWP Shohei Ohtani from the 15-day IL. Optioned RHP Kyle Hurt and DH Josue De Paula to Oklahoma City (PCL). MILWAUKEE BREWERS — Selected the contract of RHP Lyon Richardson from Nashville (IL). Optioned LHP Colton Gordon to Nashville. NEW YORK METS — Claimed LHP Philip Abner off waivers from San Francisco. Designated RHP Xzavion Curry for assignment. WASHINGTON NATIONALS — Recalled RHP Gus Varland from Rochester (IL). Optioned LHP Jackson Kent to Rochester.

BASKETBALL

NBA DENVER NUGGETS — Waived G Boopie Miller. PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS — Waived G Mark Armstrong and C Samson Johnson. SAN ANTONIO SPURS — Waived G Jayden Nunn.

FOOTBALL

NFL ARIZONA CARDINALS — Signed DB Starling Thomas from the practice squad. Placed CB Will Johnson on injured reserve. Signed DT Jay Toia to the practice squad. ATLANTA FALCONS — Signed DB Robert Longerbeam from Philadelphia’s practice squad. BUFFALO BILLS — Signed DL Austin Johnson to the practice squad. CAROLINA PANTHERS — Signed DB Isaiah Simmons from the practice squad. Placed RB Jonathon Brooks on injured reserve. Signed LB Maema Njongmeta to the practice squad. CHICAGO BEARS — Waived LS Beau Gardner. Designated LB Noah Sewell and DE Shemar Turner to return from the PUP list. CLEVELAND BROWNS — Signed DB D’Angelo Ross to the practice squad. Released DB Myles Bryant from the practice squad. DETROIT LIONS — Signed C Seth McLaughlin from the practice squad to the active roster. Signed LB Joe Bachie to the practice squad. HOUSTON TEXANS — Designated DB M.J. Stewart to return from the PUP list. INDIANAPOLIS COLTS — Signed WR Eli Pancol to the practice squad. LOS ANGELES CHARGERS — Waived WR Gary Jennings. Signed WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling from the practice squad. Placed TE David Njoku on injured reserve. Signed LS Spencer Triplett to the practice squad. LOS ANGELES RAMS — Signed DB Maximus Pulley from Philadelphia’s practice squad to the active roster. Placed RB Ronnie Rivers on injured reserve. MIAMI DOLPHINS — Signed ILB Liam Anderson to the practice squad. MINNESOTA VIKINGS — Waived NT Taki Taimani. Signed DE Jonathan Harris, P Johnny Hekker and RB Jaret Patterson to the practice squad. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS — Signed LB Jose Ramirez from the practice squad. Placed DB Dell Pettus on injured reserve. Signed DE Benton Whitley to the practice squad. Designated DB Brenden Schooler to return from the non-football injury list. NEW ORLEANS SAINTS — Waived RB Audric Estime. Signed LS Cal Adomitis from Miami’s practice squad. Placed T Kelvin Banks on injured reserve. NEW YORK JETS — Signed DT Jack Heﬂin and WR Malik McClain from the practice squad. Placed LB Marcelino McCrary-Ball, DT David Onyemata and WR Arian Smith on injured reserve. Signed TE Cody Hardy and DT Isaiahh Loudermilk to the practice squad. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES — Signed DB Kenny Moore to the practice squad. SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS — Signed DT Naquan Jones from Minnesota’s practice squad. Placed DT C.J. West on injured reserve. Signed WR Brandin Cooks and DE Viliami Fehoko to the practice squad. Released DB Jakob Robinson from the practice squad. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS — Signed DB Rodney Thomas from the practice squad. Placed G Anthony Bradford on injured reserve. Signed WR Malick Meiga and DT Uso Seumalo to the practice squad.

HOCKEY

National Hockey League COLORADO AVALANCHE — Placed D Domenick Fensore and D Christian Wolanin on waivers. NASHVILLE PREDATORS — Placed RW Ozzy Wiesblatt on waivers. PITTSBURGH PENGUINS — Placed G Taylor Gauthier on waivers for the purpose of reassignment to the minors. SAN JOSE SHARKS — Placed RW Ethan Cardwell, D Libor Hajek and LW Tye Felhaber on waivers. TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING — Placed G Jonas Johansson on waivers. VANCOUVER CANUCKS — Placed RW Trey Fix-Wolansky on waivers. VEGAS GOLDEN KNIGHTS — Placed D Jaycob Megna, D Adam Ginning, D Joe Fleming, C Jakub Demek and D Jeremy Davies on waivers. TEXAS RANGERS — Recalled RHP Gavin Collyer from Round Rock (PCL). Optioned RHP Winston Santos to ACL Rangers.

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL American League East Division x-Tampa Bay y-New York y-Boston Baltimore Toronto Central Division Cleveland Chicago Minnesota Detroit Kansas City West Division Houston Texas Seattle Athletics Los Angeles x-clinched division y-clinched wild card

National League East Division

W 96 91 85 78 77

L 62 67 73 81 82

Pct GB .608 — .576 5 .538 11 .491 18½ .484 19½

W 82 81 75 74 68

L 76 77 84 85 90

Pct .519 .513 .472 .465 .430

GB — 1 7½ 8½ 14

W 78 78 73 62 60

L 79 79 84 95 97

Pct .497 .497 .465 .395 .382

GB — — 5 16 18

x-Atlanta Philadelphia Miami Washington New York

W 93 87 77 75 72

L 65 71 80 84 85

Pct GB .589 — .551 6 .490 15½ .472 18½ .459 20½

x-Milwaukee Chicago Pittsburgh St. Louis Cincinnati

W 99 87 80 77 73

L 59 70 78 81 85

Pct GB .627 — .554 11½ .506 19 .487 22 .462 26

Central Division

West Division

x-Los Angeles San Diego Arizona San Francisco Colorado x-clinched division

W L 97 60 87 70 83 74 65 94 57 100

Pct .618 .554 .529 .409 .363

GB — 10 14 33 40

Tuesday’s scores

N.Y. Yankees 2, Tampa Bay 0, 1st game Washington 3, Detroit 1 Cleveland 3, Boston 2 Tampa Bay 6, N.Y. Yankees 1, 2nd game Chicago White Sox 14, Kansas City 11 N.Y. Mets 6, Texas 3 Minnesota 3, San Francisco 2 Houston 7, Seattle 0 Athletics 9, L.A. Angels 7 Toronto at Baltimore, ppd.

Wednesday’s games

Washington 4, Detroit 2 Baltimore 4, Toronto 2, 1st game Minnesota 4, San Francisco 2 Baltimore 4, Toronto 2, 2nd game Boston 1, Cleveland 0 N.Y. Yankees 9, Tampa Bay 2 Kansas City 5, Chicago White Sox 4 N.Y. Mets at Texas, n L.A. Angels at Athletics, n Houston at Seattle, n

Thursday’s games

Chicago White Sox (Sandlin 2-2) at Kansas City (Dobnak 3-4), 1:10 p.m. N.Y. Mets (Thornton 5-5) at Texas (TBD), 1:35 p.m. Cleveland (Cantillo 10-9) at Boston (Suarez 8-4), 5:45 p.m. Tampa Bay (Peralta 9-11) at N.Y. Yankees (Schlittler 14-6), 6:05 p.m. Houston (Lambert 8-10) at A’s (TBD), 9:40 p.m. L.A. Angels (Rodriguez 4-8) at Seattle (Woo 12-9), 8:40 p.m.

Pittsburgh 2, St. Louis 0 Philadelphia 6, Milwaukee 4 Washington 3, Detroit 1 Cincinnati 4, Atlanta 0 N.Y. Mets 6, Texas 3 Arizona 7, Colorado 2 Miami 8, Chicago Cubs 2, 12 innings Minnesota 3, San Francisco 2 L.A. Dodgers 7, San Diego 0

Wednesday’s games

Washington 4, Detroit 2 Minnesota 4, San Francisco 2 Milwaukee 4, Philadelphia 1 St. Louis 5, Pittsburgh 1 Atlanta 3, Cincinnati 2, 10 innings Miami at Chicago Cubs, n N.Y. Mets at Texas, n Arizona at Colorado, n San Diego at L.A. Dodgers, n

Thursday’s games

St. Louis (Leahy 10-5) at Pittsburgh (Skenes 10-11), 11:35 a.m. Miami (Phillips 5-6) at Chicago Cubs (TBD), 1:20 p.m. Mets (Thornton 5-5) at Texas (TBD), 1:35 p.m. Arizona (Rodriguez 15-7) at Colorado (Gordon 1-5), 2:10 p.m. Milwaukee (TBD) at Philadelphia (Mayza 3-4), 5:05 p.m. Cincinnati (Singer 6-15) at Atlanta (Mahle 7-10), 6:15 p.m. San Diego (Pivetta 3-2) at L.A. Dodgers (Glasnow 5-1), 9:10 p.m.

WILD-CARD GLANCE American League y-New York y-Boston Chicago Texas Baltimore

L 91 85 81 78 78

National League Pct WCGB 67 .576 +10 73 .538 +4 77 .513 — 79 .497 2½ 81 .491 3½

Chicago San Diego Philadelphia Arizona

W 87 87 87 83

L 70 70 71 74

Pct .554 .554 .551 .529

WCGB +½ +½ — 3½

BOX SCORES Baltimore 4, Toronto 2

Washington 4, Detroit 2

ab r h bi ab r hbi Lukes rf 5 0 1 0 Beavers lf 3 1 10 Guerrero 1b 4 0 1 0 Alonso 1b 3 1 12 Okamoto 3b 3 1 0 0 Henderson ss 3 0 0 0 Springer dh 4 1 1 0 Mayo dh 4 0 00 Smith lf 2 0 0 0 Encrnn-Str. 3b 4 1 1 0 Schneider lf 1 0 0 0 Cowser cf 3 1 00 Keys ph-lf 1 0 0 0 Jackson 2b 3 0 11 Giménez ss 4 0 2 0 Taveras rf 3 0 10 Valenzuela c4 0 2 1 Narváez c 3 0 00 Straw cf 3 0 1 0 Kirk ph 1 0 0 0 Clement 2b 4 0 2 0 Totals 36 2 10 1 Totals 29 4 5 3 Toronto 000 002 000 — 2 Baltimore 020 020 00x — 4 E — Scherzer (1), Jackson (9). DP — Toronto 0, Baltimore 1. LOB — Toronto 8, Baltimore 5. 2B — Guerrero (25), Giménez 2 (25), Clement (33). HR — Alonso (41). IP H R ER BB SO Toronto Scherzer L,3-9 5 4 4 4 3 7 Rodriguez 1 0 0 0 0 2 Little 1 1 0 0 1 1 Sewald 1 0 0 0 0 0 Baltimore Bassitt W,9-5 5 7 2 2 1 2 2 De León H,1 ⁄3 2 0 0 0 1 Nunez H,8 11⁄3 0 0 0 0 0 Garcia H,19 1 0 0 0 0 0 Kittredge S,11-16 1 1 0 0 0 1 Bassitt pitched to 2 batters in the 6th. ABS Challenge — Scherzer (BallOverturned to Strike); Alonso (StrikeConﬁrmed). Pitch timer violations — Little (pitcher). Umpires — Home, Mark Wegner; First, Austin Jones; Second, Tyler Jones; Third, Carlos Torres.

Washington Detroit ab r h bi ab r hbi Wood rf 4 0 0 1 McGonigle 3b 5 0 3 0 Chaparro dh 4 1 1 0 Lee dh 5 0 10 House 3b 4 1 2 0 Malgeri rf 5 1 22 Abrams 2b 2 0 1 1 Greene lf 3 0 00 Crews lf 4 0 0 0 Dingler c 3 0 00 Morales 1b 4 1 1 2 Clark cf 2 0 10 Ford c 2 0 0 0 Torkelson 1b 4 0 0 0 Lile ph 1 0 0 0 Peck ss 2 0 00 Ruiz c 0 0 0 0 Callahan ph 1 0 00 Young cf 4 0 0 0 McKinstry 2b 1 0 0 0 Nuñez ss 2 1 1 0 Valencia ph 1 0 00 Jung 2b 1 1 10 Totals 31 4 6 4 Totals 33 2 8 2 Washington 000 003 100 — 4 Detroit 000 001 001 — 2 DP — Washington 1, Detroit 1. LOB — Washington 4, Detroit 11. 2B — McGonigle (28), Clark (11). HR — Morales (4), Malgeri (5). SB — Nuñez 2 (49), Peck (5). S — Clark (3). IP H R ER BB SO Washington Lovelady 11⁄3 1 0 0 1 0 Lord 31⁄3 1 0 0 2 3 Dion W,2-2 2 3 1 1 1 4 1 Sinclair H,3 ⁄3 0 0 0 0 0 2 Tolman H,2 ⁄3 0 0 0 2 0 Cruz S,1-3 11⁄3 3 1 1 0 2 Detroit Valdez L,10-12 51⁄3 4 2 2 3 6 2 ⁄3 1 1 1 0 0 Kinley Waguespack 2 1 1 1 1 2 Jansen 1 0 0 0 0 0 Dion pitched to 3 batters in the 7th. WP — Tolman, Valdez. ABS Challenge — Clark (Strike-Overturned to Ball); Valdez (Ball-Conﬁrmed); McGonigle (Strike-Overturned to Ball); Tolman (Ball-Overturned to Strike). T — 2:44. A — 21,373 (41,083).

Minnesota 4, San Francisco 2

Baltimore 4, Toronto 2

Minnesota

Toronto

Baltimore

San Francisco ab r h bi ab r hbi Keaschall rf 3 1 1 2 Cox 2b 3 0 00 Kreidler ss 1 0 0 0 Hill cf 4 0 00 Lee 3b 4 0 1 0 Bericoto lf 4 0 00 Bell dh 5 0 1 1 Davidson rf 3 1 10 Jeffers c 4 0 1 0 McCray rf 1 0 00 Roden lf 3 0 1 0 Knizner c 3 1 10 Lewis 2b 4 0 1 0 Cavanaugh ph 1 0 0 0 Rodrigz rf 3 0 1 0 B.Harris 1b 3 0 00 Sabato 1b 2 0 0 0 Gilbert ph 1 0 10 Clemens 1b 2 1 0 0 Mayer dh 2 0 00 Ross ss 2 1 1 0 Bandura pr 0 0 00 Jenkins cf 2 1 1 1 Whitcomb 3b 4 0 2 2 Koss ss 3 0 00 Totals 35 4 9 4 Totals 32 2 5 2 Minnesota 001 010 200 — 4 San Francisco 000 200 000 — 2 E — Koss (7). LOB — Minnesota 8, San Francisco 6. 2B — Knizner (4). 3B — Ross (1). HR — Keaschall (10). SF — Keaschall (8). IP H R ER BB SO Minnesota 2 2 3 Prielipp 51⁄3 4 2 0 0 2 Gómez W,3-4 12⁄3 0 0 Minter H,11 1 0 0 0 0 0 Morris S,5-11 1 1 0 0 1 2 San Francisco 2 0 2 Perdomo 51⁄3 5 2 2 ⁄3 0 0 0 1 1 Kuhnel 2 ⁄3 1 2 2 1 1 Smith L,0-6 1 ⁄3 1 0 0 1 1 Hentges 0 0 1 Roxby 12⁄3 2 0 1 ⁄3 0 0 0 0 0 T.Harris ABS Challenge — Bell (Strike-Overturned to Ball); Lewis (Strike-Overturned to Ball); Morris (Ball-Conﬁrmed). Umpires — Home, Dillon Wilson; First, Rob Drake; Second, Andy Fletcher; Third, Steven Jaschinski. T — 2:41. A — 28,136 (41,915).

Baltimore ab r h bi ab r hbi Lukes rf 4 0 2 0 Beavers rf 4 0 00 Smith 2b 4 0 0 0 Alonso 1b 3 1 00 Kirk c 4 0 1 0 Henderson ss 2 0 0 0 Okamto dh 4 0 0 0 Mayo 3b 3 1 10 Keys 1b 3 1 1 0 Encrnn-Str. dh 3 2 2 3 Schneider lf 2 1 1 2 Cowser cf 3 0 11 McAdoo 3b 3 0 0 0 Jackson 2b 3 0 00 Straw cf 4 0 1 0 Franklin lf 3 0 00 Clement ss 3 0 0 0 Pozo c 3 0 00 Totals 31 2 6 2 Totals 27 4 4 4 Toronto 000 000 002 — 2 Baltimore 300 100 00x — 4 E — Jackson (10). DP — Toronto 1, Baltimore 2. LOB — Toronto 6, Baltimore 1. 2B — Mayo (18), Cowser (9). HR — Schneider (5), Encarnacion-Strand (11). IP H R ER BB SO Toronto Van Eyk L,0-2 5 4 4 4 0 2 Cellucci 11⁄3 0 0 0 1 0 2 Lee 1 ⁄3 0 0 0 0 3 Baltimore 2 Gibson W,2-3 6 ⁄3 3 0 0 2 7 1 Cano H,14 ⁄3 0 0 0 1 1 Walker 1 1 0 0 0 0 Bautista 1 2 2 2 0 1 HBP — Van Eyk (Alonso). ABS Challenge — Beavers (StrikeOverturned to Ball); Alonso (StrikeConfirmed); Gibson (Ball-Confirmed); Kirk (Strike-Confirmed). Umpires — Home, Nate Tomlinson; First, Tyler Jones; Second, Carlos Torres; Third, Austin Jones. T — 2:22. A — 19,824 (45,971).

THIS DATE IN BASEBALL Sept. 24 1940 — Jimmie Foxx of the Red Sox hit his 500th career home run off Philadelphia’s George Caster in the first game of a doubleheader at Shibe Park. Foxx’s homer came in the sixth inning after Ted Williams homered. Joe Cronin followed with a homer and, later in the inning, Jim Tabor also homered. The four homers in the inning were a first in the AL. 1969 — The New York Mets clinched the NL East title, with Gary Gentry pitching a fourhitter in a 6-0 victory over St. Louis. 1974 — Detroit’s Al Kaline doubled down the right-field line off Dave McNally of Baltimore for his 3,000th career hit. The Orioles beat the Tigers 5-4 at Memorial Stadium. 1977 — Jack Brohamer of the Chicago White Sox had four extra base hits and hit for the cycle in an 8-3 win over the Seattle Mariners at the Kingdome. 1984 — Rick Sutcliffe threw a two-hitter and led the Chicago Cubs to their first league title since 1945 with a 4-1 victory over Pittsburgh. 1988 — Dave Stieb of the Toronto Blue Jays, one strike from a no-hitter, gave up a badhop single to Julio Franco. Stieb settled for a 1-0, one-hit victory over Cleveland. 1998 — Boston’s Tom Gordon set a major

league record for most consecutive saves with his 42nd to preserve the Red Sox’ 9-6 win over the Baltimore Orioles. 2004 — The Atlanta Braves clinched their 13th consecutive division title, winning the NL East with an 8-7 victory over the Florida Marlins. The Braves’ record streak of division championships began with the 1991 NL West title and excludes the 1994 strike-shortened season. 2006 — Trevor Hoffman became baseball’s career saves leader, earning No. 479 to pass Lee Smith and help NL West-leading San Diego beat Pittsburgh 2-1. It was his NL-leading 43rd save in 48 chances. 2008 — Francisco Rodriguez worked the ninth inning of the Los Angeles Angels’ 6-5 victory over the Seattle Mariners to end the season with a major league record 62 saves. 2014 — The New York Yankees were eliminated from postseason contention after losing to the AL East champion Orioles 9-5. The Yankees missed the playoffs in consecutive years for the ﬁrst time since 1992 and ’93. 2016 — Jose Bautista hit a three-run homer in the eighth inning and the Toronto Blue Jays beat the Yankees 3-0 to send New York to its third consecutive shutout defeat — the ﬁrst time that has happened to New York since 1975.

Fish Piccata: an elegant yet simple dinner

LIVING IVIN

N O L A.C O M

T h u r s d ay, s e p T e m b e r 24, 2026

1dN

BY LINDA GASSENHEIMER Tribune News Service (TNS)

Here’s a simple, elegant dinner featuring tender cod fillets topped with a silky lemon-caper sauce. The bright lemon complements the mild cod, while briny capers add just the right amount of savory flavor. Asparagus and rice are prepared in the microwave, making this a complete meal with minimal cooking and no extra pan to clean. HELPFUL HINTS: n Any type of fish fillet such as haddock or tilapia can be used. n Green beans can be used instead of asparagus. n If you prefer you can use fish or vegetable broth, whatever is on hand.

Fish Piccata Yields 2 servings. Recipe is by Linda Gassenheimer. ¾ pound cod fillet 2 tablespoons flour 2 teaspoons olive oil 2 crushed garlic cloves 1 teaspoon cornstarch 1 cup reduced-fat, no-salt-added chicken broth, divided use 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon capers

STAFF PHOTOS By CHRIS GRANGER

1. Cut cod into 2- to 3-inch slices. Place flour on a plate. Add the cod slices to the flour making sure both sides are coated. 2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cod in one layer and cook until browned, about 1 to 2 minutes. Turn cod over and cook the second side until browned, about 1 minute. Remove cod to a plate. 3. Add the garlic and ½ cup broth to the skillet. Continue to cook over medium-high heat, scraping up the small bits remaining in the skillet. Cook to reduce the broth by half. 3. Mix the cornstarch in the remaining chicken broth. Add the broth, lemon juice and capers to the skillet. Cook stirring until sauce starts to thicken, about 1 to 2 minutes. 4. Return the cod to the skillet and cook for 1 minute. A meat thermometer should read 123 F. Timing is for a ½-inch-thick fillet. Cook a few minutes more if needed. 5. Divide the cod in half and place over the rice and asparagus on the two dinner plates. Spoon sauce on top. NUTRITION INFO PER SERVING: 223 calories (23 percent from fat), 5.8 g fat (0.9 g saturated, 2.3 g monounsaturated), 72 mg cholesterol, 32.4 g protein, 9.1 g carbohydrates, 0.5 g fiber, 210 mg sodium.

Liz Williams’ gazpacho, RECIPE 2D

Liz Williams TIP OF THE TONGUE

TNS PHOTO By LINDA GASSENHEIMER

Fish Piccata with Asparagus and Rice

Asparagus and Rice Yields 2 servings. Recipe is by Linda Gassenheimer. ¾ pound asparagus 1 package microwaveable brown rice (to make 1½ cups cooked) 2 teaspoons olive oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1. Remove thick end of asparagus and cut remaining stem into 2- to 3-inch pieces. Place in a bowl and microwave on high 2 minutes. 2. Remove from microwave and add the brown rice. Microwave according to package instructions. Measure 1½ cups and save any remaining rice for another meal. 3. Add rice, oil and salt and pepper to taste to bowl, with asparagus and toss to combine. 4. Divide in half and place onto 2 dinner plates. NUTRITION INFO PER SERVING: 260 calories (21 percent from fat), 6.2 g fat (1.1 g saturated, 2.7 g monounsaturated), no cholesterol, 7.8 g protein, 45.6 g carbohydrates, 5.9 g ﬁber, 10 mg sodium.

Bowls of goodness, both for your taste buds and the environment

Blueberry Cream Soup

Serves 6-8. 2 pints fresh blueberries (or any other fresh berry that you like), washed and drained 1 pint vanilla ice cream, melted in the refrigerator 1 pint half and half ½ cup sugar Zest of one orange 1 teaspoon grated ginger 1 cup ice-cold water

6-8 teaspoons Grand Marnier, Cointreau or white Triple Sec Mint leaves

1. Place the ﬁrst 6 ingredients into a large food processor or blender. Pulse until all of the ingredients are thoroughly mixed. 2. Add up to 1 cup cold water and pulse again until the water is incorporated. (Juicy blueberries might not need as much water. Stop adding water when the consistency and thickness are to your taste.) 3. Place into 6 dessert bowls. Add 1 teaspoon of liqueur to each bowl. Garnish with mint. Serve with cookies or meringues.

one are the sultry days of summer now that everyone is back in school. There are a plethora of activities that keep us busy, like sports, music lessons and homework. Although the holiday season hasn’t really begun yet, we are already looking ahead to the festivities. All of this takes time after a long workday, so I have three soups that can be made from pantry ingredients. They can also make the “not quite enough” leftovers become enough for a meal. The classic gazpacho is one such soup. If you have leftover salad, whiz it up in the blender or food processor to create the base. Even if you have no leftovers and are resorting to a casserole, that delicious back pocket specialty, you can stretch leftovers by adding gazpacho as a ﬁrst course. ä See SOUPS, page 2D

2D ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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Farmers market ﬂexibility Spicy stir-fry features oyster mushrooms, lemongrass and snap peas

BY GRETCHEN McKAY

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (TNS) When I head to a favorite farmers market, I usually have a few very specific ingredients in mind so I can make a few very specific dishes — say, heirloom slicing tomatoes for sandwiches, corn for Mexican elote or cilantro and other fresh herbs for a bright and zesty chimichurri. Recently, for example, I was on the hunt for plump and juicy Italian plums so I could make one of my husband’s favorite end-ofsummer desserts: Marian Burros’ plum torte, which has been a favorite recipe ever since it was published in The New York Times way back in 1983. (It’s fabulous!) While there were piles (and piles) of another favorite summer stone fruit — yellow peaches — I could not find the small, eggshaped purple fruit that cooks up so wonderfully jammy. But I still walked away from the market with a smile, thanks to a beautiful display of locally cultivated fungi sitting next to the cash register. Oyster mushrooms with broad, fan-like caps and ruffled edges immediately caught my eye. In an instant, I was pondering what I could make for dinner that night instead of fretting over what I wouldn’t be

able to make for dessert. Thanks to their meaty texture, oyster mushrooms make an excellent substitute for beef, pork or chicken in any number of dishes. (They become slightly chewy when cooked.) Their porous, spongy flesh, which is filled with air pockets, also make the fungi an excellent medium for soaking up whatever other flavors are in the pan. Another plus: Since they cook in a flash, they’re a perfect building block for a quick midweek meal. Inspired by a recipe for a spicy stir-fry that I found online as I stood in line at the register, I decided to buy one of the feathery clusters. The original recipe calls for pounded and finely chopped fresh lemongrass, a culinary herb with a fresh, citrusy aroma and flavor that’s easy to find in most Asian markets. Unfortunately, it can be an oddball item in smaller grocery stores. No worries: I substituted ready-to-use lemongrass paste, and added a splash of fresh lime juice just before serving to add some of the missing zing. A handful of sugar snap peas gives the dish its crunch and bright green pops of color; chopped jalapeño peppers and a finishing sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes add a little heat. I served most of the stir-fry with a side of steamed white rice, and tossed the leftovers with cooked ziti for lunch the next day. Both were pretty tasty. Cook’s note: Oyster mushrooms should have firm, gray or tan caps with a velvety texture and a mild, fruity aroma. Avoid ones with broken edges, dark discolorations or slimy gills. They’re best within a few days of harvest.

PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE/TNS PHOTO By GRETCHEN McKAy

Spicy Oyster Mushroom ends trimmed, strings removed tablespoon fish sauce and Lemongrass Stir-Fry 1Splash of fresh lime juice

Serves 4. Recipe is adapted from Bonappetit.com.

2 tablespoons peanut or vegetable oil ½ small yellow onion, cut into thick wedges 3 tablespoons lemongrass paste 1 large Fresno chile or jalapeño, quartered, seeds removed, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped 2 teaspoons Madras-style curry powder ¼ teaspoon sugar 1 ⁄8 teaspoon ground turmeric, optional ½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste 10-12 ounces oyster mushrooms, torn into thick, bite-size pieces 4 ounces (about 1 cup) sugar snap peas,

Reusing leftover soap chips to form a ball, or press it Dear Heloise: Any ideas on into pastry molds. Let it dry how to turn leftover soap chips into a new usable bar? completely. n Take all the soap chips I hate to just throw them away if there’s a way to and place them in a small reuse them. — Nita S., glass or ceramic via email bowl. If your husNita, here are band shaves with a some ideas: razor, he can wet his n Using old but brush and lather the soap up by swirling clean pantyhose, his shaving brush place a handful of Hints from over the chips, soap chips in the Heloise which will start to foot area, then tie it form one soap bar. off and trim off the Nothing’s wasted with this excess panty hose. Instead method. of using a wash cloth, you — Heloise can use your new scrubber to wash yourself. Let it dry Towel dilemmas completely between uses. n Gather all the soap Dear Heloise: Perhaps you chips in a pan and add just can solve a mystery for enough water to make a me. For years, the regular thick mixture. Turn the method of drying towels burner to medium. Stir well and keeping them soft was until it gets hard and reto use a dryer sheet. Now it move from the stove. When seems that this doesn’t do any good, since the dryer the mixture starts to cool sheets leave a ﬁlm on the and is safe to handle (but still warm to the touch), roll towels that makes them less absorbent. the mixture in your hands

After doing a bit of research, I came up with the idea of washing towels in hot water and vinegar to strip away the ﬁlm that’s even on brand-new towels. This was great, but now the towels are scratchy. Help! Any suggestions from you and your readers about the best way to keep some softness and also keep towels absorbent? — Bobbie F., via email Bobbie, try washing the towels with less detergent. You might want to use one of those laundry soap sheets (only one per load). Then use a couple of wool dryer balls (which are sold at grocery stores) instead of dryer sheets. People used to take towels outside and give them a good snap a couple of times to help loosen up the ﬁbers. See if this helps. — Heloise

Chopped green onion, for garnish Crushed red pepper flakes, for garnish Cooked white or brown rice, for serving

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large wok or a nonstick or carbonsteel skillet over medium heat. 2. Add sliced onion and lemongrass paste and cook, stirring often, until onion starts to soften, about 2 minutes. 3. Add Fresno chile or jalapeño, chopped garlic, curry powder, sugar, ground turmeric (if using) and kosher salt. Cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. 4. Add torn oyster mushrooms and cook, stirring, until coated.

Gazpacho Serves 4-6. 3 pounds fresh tomatoes, roughly chopped 1 red bell pepper, seeded and roughly chopped 2 cucumbers, peeled and roughly chopped (I leave the seeds in) 2 or 3 scallions, roughly chopped 3 cloves garlic ½ to ¾ cup olive oil 2 tablespoons Jerez vinegar (Or substitute wine vinegar) Salt and pepper

Increase heat to high and cook, stirring often, until firm-tender, 2-3 minutes. 5. Add sugar snap peas and cook, stirring, until warmed through and glistening, about 1 minute. 6. Add fish sauce and a splash of lime juice and cook, stirring, 30 seconds. Taste stir-fry and season with more salt if needed. 7. Transfer to a platter to serve. Garnish with green onions and pepper flakes and serve with hot cooked rice. NOTE: Mushrooms are mostly water, so they release their internal juices as they heat up in a dry pan. So don’t worry if the sauce seems dry at first. Add more or less jalapeño or Fresno chile, depending on taste

1. Place all ingredients into the blender. This machine will incorporate the most air and make the lightest gazpacho that will feel creamy, without having any cream. If you don’t have a blender, or if you like the gazpacho less homogenized, use a food processor. If you have leftover salad, incorporate it now. Blend until you are happy with the consistency. 2. Taste the gazpacho. With fresh ingredients, it will vary every time, so use your judgement to adjust the seasoning. If you used

salad, taste before adding the oil and vinegar, as last night’s dressing may be enough. If it needs more tartness, add vinegar, a teaspoon at a time. Stir and taste before adjusting. 3. If you ﬁnd the soup too thick, add about ¼ cup of water and stir. Keep doing this until you like the consistency. Taste again to adjust the salt and pepper. 4. Chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours, if you can. It will improve the ﬂavor. Let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes and serve.

Send a hint to heloise@ heloise.com.

TODAY IN HISTORY By The Associated Press Today is Thursday, Sept. 24, the 267th day of 2026. There are 98 days left in the year. Today in history: On Sept. 24, 2017, more than 200 NFL players knelt or sat during the national anthem after President Donald Trump criticized the players’ protests in a speech and a series of tweets. Also on this date: In 1789, President George Washington signed a Judiciary Act establishing America’s federal court system and creating the post of attorney general. In 1869, thousands of businessmen were ruined in a Wall Street panic known as “Black Friday” after financiers Jay Gould and James Fisk attempted to corner the gold market. In 1906, President Theodore Roosevelt established Devil’s Tower in Wyoming as the first U.S. national monument. In 1957, the Los Angelesbound Brooklyn Dodgers played their last game at Ebbets Field, defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates 2-0. In 1960, the USS Enterprise, the first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, was

launched at Newport News, Virginia. In 1963, the U.S. Senate ratiﬁed a treaty with Britain and the Soviet Union limiting nuclear testing. In 1968, the TV news magazine “60 Minutes” premiered on CBS. In 1969, the trial of the Chicago Eight, later the Chicago Seven, began. (Five were later convicted of crossing state lines to incite riots at the 1968 Democratic convention, but the convictions were ultimately overturned.) In 1988, Jackie JoynerKersey won gold and set a world record in the women’s heptathlon at the Summer Olympics in Seoul. In 2013, a powerful 7.7 magnitude earthquake rocked southwest Pakistan, killing at least 376 people. In 2015, a stampede and crush of Muslim pilgrims occurred in the holy city of Mina, Saudi Arabia. While the ofﬁcial Saudi death toll stood at 769, The Associated Press estimated that more than 2,400 people were killed. In 2022, Russian forces launched new strikes on Ukrainian cities as Kremlin-orchestrated votes took place in occupied regions of Ukraine to create a pre-

text for their annexation by Moscow. In 2023, NASA’s first asteroid samples fetched from deep space were parachuted in a capsule into the Utah desert to cap a seven-year journey by the Osiris-Rex spacecraft. In a flyby of Earth, the spacecraft released the capsule from 63,000 miles out and it landed four hours later as the mother ship set off after another asteroid. In 2025, a man with a rifle opened fire from a nearby roof onto a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement complex in Dallas, killing one detainee and wounding two others in a transport van before taking his own life. Today’s birthdays: Football Hall of Famer Joe Greene is 80. Actor Gordon Clapp is 78. Actor Harriet Walter is 76. Filmmaker Brad Bird is 69. Actor Kevin Sorbo is 68. Actor-screenwriter Nia Vardalos is 64. Celebrity chef Robert Irvine is 61. Actor Jackie Sandler is 52. Actor Ian Bohen is 50. TV personality Ross Matthews is 47. Olympic gold medal gymnast Paul Hamm is 44. Actor Spencer Treat Clark is 39. Actor Grey Damon is 39. Actor Ben Platt is 33. Actor Joe Locke is 23.

Liz Williams’ tomato and cheese soup

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

Cheese and Tomato Soup Serves 4-6. 3 tablespoons olive oil (and 4 to 6 teaspoons more for finishing) 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes ½ bottle (or more) of beer (You can use a dry white wine too. If you don’t have either leftover in the fridge, use beer over wine.) 4 ounces cheese, grated (You can use cheddar, Swiss or pepper jack. Each will give a different flavor profile to the soup. Don’t use preshredded cheese, as it is coated in a starch, which inhibits melting.)

SOUPS

Continued from page 1D There is no need to heat it. It is best served not icecold from the refrigerator, but chilled. On-hand ingredients can be put to good use in cheese and tomato soup. In the pantry, I try to always have a few large cans of crushed tomatoes. In the refrigerator, there is often cheese and an open bottle

Zest of 1 lemon ½ cup fresh green herbs such as cilantro, parsley, basil or a combination, chopped 1. Place the oil in a pot and let it heat over a low ﬂame. When it begins to simmer, add garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook the garlic and bloom the herbs in the oil for one minute. Add the tomatoes and stir. Add the beer and stir again. 2. Continue heating, stirring occasionally so that the soup heats evenly. As bubbles begin to form around of beer. I usually make this soup as an extension of dinner. Enjoy it on its own for lunch or pair it with a rolled quesadilla for dipping. And when there is no time for elaborate dessert making, blueberry cream soup will come to the rescue. Serve it with cookies or meringues. This recipe can use up the bits of ice cream left in multiple containers in your freezer. Food waste is not something any of us can afford with grocery prices being

the edge of the pot, add half of the cheese and stir. When it has melted, add the rest of the cheese. Stir again. Add the lemon zest and stir again. 3. Ladle into bowls. Sprinkle chopped herbs and drizzle a teaspoon of oil onto each serving. (If you warm the bowls with boiling water, they will help the soup stay hot while you are eating. Fill each bowl with boiling water, discard the water before adding the soup, garnish and serve.) on the rise, but that is no reason to serve less than thoughtful and delicious meals. I think of it as a game — me against the impulse to waste. And I want to win! Liz Williams is founder of the now-closed Southern Food & Beverage Museum in New Orleans. Listen to “Tip of the Tongue,” Liz’s podcast about food, drink and culture, wherever you hear podcasts. Email Liz at lizwillia@gmail.com.

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ 3D

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FrAnK And erneSt

roSebUdS

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zodIAC LIBRA (sept. 23-oct. 23) — It's OK to be different. A change will offer lessons that encourage you to replenish your spirit by allowing yourself the freedom to accept who you are and do what makes you happy. scoRPIo (oct. 24-nov. 22) — Adjustments that add to your comfort may not be appreciated by everyone, but they will make your life easier. Self-improvement is highly recommended. Relax, enjoy your own company and take care of yourself. sAGITTARIus (nov. 23-Dec. 21) — Let your uniqueness lead the way. The changes you initiate at work or at home may not please everyone, but in time, acceptance will manifest. Trust your instincts and explore what's possible. cAPRIcoRn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Distance yourself from negativity and conversations with people who don't share your beliefs, integrity or standards. Focus on how well you do your job, run your life and handle financial matters. AQuARIus (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — Focus on home improvements, budget and investments. A lifestyle change will help you get back on track and be conscientious about health and emotional well-being. PIscEs (Feb. 20-March 20) — If you express your feelings through your gestures, you'll gain insight into who has mutual respect for you. Participate in activities that are useful and geared toward health. ARIEs (March 21-April 19) — Take a close look at yourself, your relationships and

the amount of time you can spare to take care of your needs. Be realistic, shake things up and find that sweet spot. TAuRus (April 20-May 20) — Set your sights on simplifying your life. Taking on too much will lead to stress and overreacting. Put drama aside, and pay more attention to making memories with the ones you love. GEMInI (May 21-June 20) — A change of scenery will prompt you to make changes. Finding an outlet for pent-up energy will give you the confidence necessary to pursue your dreams. Consider a hobby that eases stress. cAncER (June 21-July 22) — A creative outlet will spark your imagination and encourage you to expand and use your talents to make money. Self-improvement projects will help you excel. Update your resume. LEo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Monitor what's happening around you and how you feel physically. Address issues concerning home improvements, medical issues and how committed you are to your lifestyle. Investigate what's available to you. VIRGo (Aug. 23-sept. 22) — Reaching out to an old colleague or childhood friend will offer insight into what you can do with your skills and experience. Don't be shy. Love, romance, personal growth or getting a new look are favored. 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

peAnUtS

SALLY Forth

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: o EQuALs R

Mother GooSe And GrIMM

SherMAn’S LAGoon FAMILY CIrCUS

dooneSbUrY

4D ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

CurTiS

Hi and LoiS

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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

BLondie

THe wiZard oF id

nea CroSSwordS

La TimeS CroSSword

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ 5D

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B.C.

Bridge By PHILLIP ALDER John Lennon said, “Reality leaves a lot to the imagination.” This week we are looking at deals from reality — how they were actually bid and played by nonexperts. What do you think of the bidding in this deal? Also, against five diamonds, West led the heart two. When declarer played low from the dummy, East put up his king. South won with her ace, played a diamond to dummy’s king, returned a heart to her jack, ruffed a club in the dummy, discarded a club on the heart queen, drew the missing trump, and claimed all 13 tricks. How many mistakes were made? In the auction, East might have made a takeoutdoubleoveronespade.AndSouth should not have jumped straight to five diamonds. With four aces, her hand had slam potential. I would have continued with three hearts, leaving partner room to describe his hand. Here, North would probably have bid four diamonds. (I like the Principle of Fast Arrival, when, in a game-forcing auction, a jump to game is discouraging. So four diamonds is stronger than five. Yes, North has only six points, but four trumps and a club void are great assets.) In the play, West should have led the heart seven, top of nothing. Regardless,

garfield

Pearls Before swiNe

hagar the horriBle

East should have played his eight at trick one, not the king. West would not have been underleading (leading low away from) the ace. East should have assumed that West had the heart jack. The rest of the play was fine except that declarer should have drawn the second round of trumps a tad quicker. © 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 — HELIcon: HEL-ih-kon: A large tuba similar to a sousaphone.

Bizarro

marmaduKe

Average mark 20 words Time limit 30 minutes Can you find 25 or more words in HELICON? yEsTERDAy’s WoRD — DIFFIcuLTy difficult duct duff dulcify duly duty icily idly iffy fifty fitful

flit fluid fluidity city cliff cuff cult licit lift lucid lucidity

ludic luff tidily tidy tiff tuff

loCKhorNs hidato Yesterday’s Puzzle Answer

today’s thought “In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge. The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death.” Proverbs 14:26-27 Here is where you can find real confidence. G.E. Dean

6D ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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Scrabble GramS dIrectIons: make a 2- to 7-letter word from the letters in each row. add points of each word, using scoring directions at right. Finally, 7-letter words get 50-point bonus. “Blanks” used as any letter have no point value. all the words are in the Official sCraBBlE® players Dictionary, 5th Edition.

Yesterday’s Puzzle Answer

jump Start

For more information on tournaments and clubs, email naspa – north american sCraBBlE players association: info@scrabbleplayers.org. Visit our website: www.scrabbleplayers.org. For puzzle inquiries contact scrgrams@gmail.com.

Get fuzzy

Hasbro and its logo sCraBBlE associated logo, the design of the distinctive sCraBBlE brand game card, and the distinctive letter tile designs are trademarks of Hasbro in the United states and Canada. ©2021 Hasbro. all rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content agency, llC.

ken ken

animal crackerS

DuStin

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

Wallace the brave

Drabble

WiShinG Well breWSter rockit

luann

HErE is a plEasanT liTTlE gamE that will give you a message every day. it’s a numerical puzzle designed to spell out your fortune. Count the letters in your first name. if the number of letters is 6 or more, subtract 4. if the number is less than 6, add 3. The result is your key number. start at the upper left-hand corner and check each of your key numbers, left to right. Then read the message the checked figures give you.

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ 7D

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Employment GENERAL HELP Wanted: City of New Orleans Approved DBE Vendors City of New Orleans Solicitation #4752 – Street Light Maintenance and Rehabilitation Services

classiﬁeds.nola.com | 504-636-7435 Anyone knowing the whereabouts of the heirs of Major Shields /or Taneha Shields, David Michael Shields a/k/a David M. Shields a/k/a David Shields, Krystal Shields, or Jonathan Shields, please contact Attorney Keith A. Doley at 504-9437071. 201828-Sept 24-26, 3t $109

Announcements

Any possible heirs of Anna Mae Larocca please call Atty. Blaine Moncrief 504-417-6855. 201831-Sept 24-26, 3t $60.70

United in Marriage and declare their commitment to one another as Husband and Wife.

I am applying for a permit to sell alcoholic beverages at retail at the following address: 1413 Upperline Street in the Parish of Orleans for 1413 Partners LLC doing business as Daughter's Neighborhood Italian. Managing Members being Devillier Hospitality Group owned by Justin Devillier and Mia Freiberger, and Member, Joel Dondis. 201783 Sept. 24 1t $64.20 Advertising Looking to promote your services or find a new hire? Deliver your classified message statewide for as little as $265 per week through the Louisiana Press Association’s Classified Network. Pre-payment required. To learn more, email advertising@lapress.com or call 225-344-9309.

Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Donnell Robinson please contact Attorney David J. Motter 3500 N. Hullen Street, Metairie, LA 70002; 504-388-7005. 201563-Sept 22-24, 3t $77.50 Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Joseph Hermo, the owner of 1101 Tennessee, LLC please contact Attorney, Yves Gelin at: (504) 6384007. 201502-Sept 22-24, 3t $77.50 Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Samantha Stegall please contact Attorney David J. Motter 3500 N. Hullen Street, Metairie, LA 70002; 504-388-7005. 201561-Sept 22-24, 3t $77.50

Public Notices

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

PUBLIC NOTICE --ADVERTISEMENT: INVITATION TO BID CITY OF NEW ORLEANS SPONSORING DEPT: NOAB TITLE: AIRPORT AIRFIELD PAINTING AND ACCUMULATED RUBBER REMOVAL ANNUAL MAINTENANCE EVENT NO: 4785 TYPE OF SOLICITATION: NON-PROFESSIONAL SERVICES SLDBE OPPORTUNITY: WAIVED RELEASED ON: Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 8:00 AM CST DEADLINE TO RESPOND: Friday, October 16, 2026, at 1:00 PM CST PRE-BID CONFERENCE & SITE VISIT: N/A Dates are subject to changes via an adden‐ dum posted by the Bu‐ reau of Purchasing on the City’s supplier portal. If you wish to receive no‐ tiﬁcation of addendum posted by the Bureau of Purchasing about this event, register as a sup‐ plier or update your sup‐ plier account (if already registered) and select the following commodity code(s): COMMODITY CODE(s): 905-60 The City of New Orleans strongly encourages mi‐ nority-owned and women-owned busi‐ nesses, socially and eco‐ nomically disadvantaged businesses and small businesses to respond to this solicitation, or to participate in subcon‐ tracting opportunities pursuant to this solicita‐ tion. For more information about this event, go to www.nola.gov and click on “BRASS Supplier Por‐ tal” under “BIDS & CON‐ TRACTS”. Once on the Supplier Portal, search “Open Events.” Thank you for your inter‐ est in doing business with the City of New Or‐ leans. Kai L. Wells, Assistant Purchasing Administrator Advertising Dates: September 24, October 1 and 8, 2026 NOCP 9336 202006-sept 24-1-8-3t $99.21

PUBLIC NOTICE --ADVERTISEMENT: INVITATION TO BID CITY OF NEW ORLEANS SPONSORING DEPARTMENT: NOAB TITLE: Kubota RTV’s EVENT NO: 4794 TYPE OF SOLICITATION: NON-PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Miscellaneous End your tax worries today. Let us make your tax problem our priority. Scared, stuck with high tax amounts? Our A+ tax professionals can help. Call for a FREE consultation. Call Priority Tax now 1877-249-9376. We Buy Houses for Cash AS-IS! No repairs. No fuss. Any condition. Easy process: Call, get cash offer and get paid. Call today for your fair cash offer: 1-225-545-1983. Struggling with debt? If you have over $15,000 in debt we help you be debt free in as little as 24-48 months. Pay nothing to enroll. Call Now: 1-877-773-1742. Donate your car, truck, boat, RV and more to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-844-742-5188 today!

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

The City of New Orleans strongly encourages mi‐ nority-owned and women-owned busi‐ nesses, socially and eco‐ nomically disadvantaged businesses and small businesses to respond to this solicitation, or to participate in subcon‐ tracting opportunities pursuant to this solicita‐ tion. For more information about this event, go to www.nola.gov and click on “BRASS Supplier Por‐ tal” under “BIDS & CON‐ TRACTS”. Once on the Supplier Portal, search “Open Events.” Thank you for your inter‐ est in doing business with the City of New Or‐ leans. Procurement Administrator Advertising Dates: September 17 and 24, 2026 NOCP 9313 201077-sept- 17-24-2t $63.44 PUBLIC NOTICE --ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Project: DELGADO COMMUNITY COLLEGE PROJECT: MARITIME AQUATICS FACILITY NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA 70129 Delgado Community College Project No.: 40006-R0031602 H/S Project No.: 25037 Sealed bids will be re‐ ceived by the Delgado Community College Pur‐ chasing Office, O’Keefe Administration Building, located at 501 City Park Avenue (Building 37), New Orleans, Louisiana 70119 until 2:00 p.m. CST on 10/21/26. All bids which have been duly re‐ ceived will be publicly opened in the Purchasing Department and, except as provided in LSA-R.S. 37:2163, read aloud. Late bids will not be ac‐ cepted. Description of the pro‐ posed work: New construction of a maritime aquatic facility within the existing Del‐ gado Community College Campus. New construction con‐ sists of a sidewalk con‐ necting to the adjacent existing school building’s sidewalk, a first responder river res‐ cue training pool, pool deck, covered pool equipment pad, and an add alternate for two (2) restrooms and showers. Complete Bid Documents for this project are avail‐ able in electronic form. They may be obtained without charge and without de‐ posit from Holly and Smith Architects, APAC. Printed copies are not available from the Designer, but arrangements can be made to obtain them through most repro‐ graphic firms. Plan holders are responsible for their own reproduc‐ tion costs. Questions about this procedure shall be directed to the Designer at: Holly and Smith Archi‐ tects, APAC 2302 Magazine St. New Orleans, LA 70130 Telephone: (504) 585-1315 E-mail: hsa@hollyandsmi th.com

RELEASED ON: Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 8:00 AM CST DEADLINE TO RESPOND: Friday, October 3, at 1:00 PM CST

Type of Bid: Bids shall be on a lump-sum basis. Segregated bids will not be accepted.

PRE-BID CONFERENCE & SITE VISIT: N/A

Bids security in the amount of ﬁve percent (5%) of the total bid must accompany each Bid. A certiﬁed or cashier’s check or a bid bond is acceptable bid security. If bid bond is used, it shall be writ‐ ten by a surety or insurance com‐ pany currently on the U.S. Department of the Treasury Financial Man‐ agement service list of approved bonding companies which is published annu‐ ally in the Federal Regis‐ ter, or by a Louisiana domiciled in‐ surance company with at least an A-rating in the latest printing of the A.M.

Dates are subject to changes via an adden‐ dum posted by the Bu‐ reau of Purchasing on the City’s supplier portal. If you wish to receive no‐ tiﬁcation of addendum posted by the Bureau of Purchasing about this event, register as a sup‐ plier or update your sup‐ plier account (if already registered) and select the following commodity code(s): COMMODITY CODE(s): 071-71

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Public Notices Bids/Proposals

Best’s Key Rating Guide to write individual bonds up to ten percent of policy‐ holders’ surplus as shown in the A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide. (LSA-R.S. 38:2218.C).

The City of New Orleans is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages minorityowned and womenowned businesses, so‐ cially and economically disadvantaged busi‐ nesses and small busi‐ nesses to respond to this solicitation, or to partici‐ pate in subcontracting opportunities pursuant to this solicitation. Any person with disabilities requires special accom‐ modation must contact the buyer listed within the bid no later than seven (7) days prior to bid opening.

Bids shall be accepted from Contractors who are licensed under LA. RS.37.2150-2192 for the classification of Building Construction. Bidder shall certify that he is li‐ censed under the provi‐ sions of LSA-R.S. 37:2150 et seq. and show his license number on the bid enve‐ lope. Except as other‐ wise provided in LSA-R.S. 37:2163, any bid that does not contain the contractor’s certification and show the contractor’s license number on the bid enve‐ lope shall be automati‐ cally rejected, shall be returned to the “Re‐ Bidder stamped jected” and shall not be read aloud. Any Bidder who submits a bid for a type of construction for which he is not properly li‐ censed shall be acting in violation of LSA-R.S. 37:2163 and shall be subject to all provisions for violations and penalties thereof. Any interested person may object to the licensing classifica‐ tion of this public project in accordance with LSAR.S. 37:2163D.

Local Electrical Contractor in need of City of New Orleans approved DBE’s for the following trades: Licensed Arborist Concrete Demolition Concrete Supplier Masonry – Brick & Tile – Installation and Repair Tree Trimming Painting Application Method: Qualified, interested parties should please contact Harold Boydston hboydston@allstar-electric.com or Todd McDonald tmcdonald@allstarelectric.com HOSPITALITY We are currently seeking experienced Chefs/Utility Hand/Housekeeping per‐ sonnel for offshore work rotating hitches of 14 days/12 hours per day then 14 days off. Must have the follow‐ ing: RIG PASS • SAFEGULF • HUET • BOSIET • MMC • TWIC • THREE YEARS OFFSHORE UTILITY EXPERIENCE. Appli‐ cants will also be required to pass a USCG Merchant Mariner Physical and a USCG DOT Drug Test. https://cardinal.bamboohr.com/jobs

MARINE

APARTMENT: DUPLEX 8629 Apricot St. 3Br/1Ba, Central air/heat, Section 8. No Pets $1300. 504-344-2324 APARTMENT 3806 LaSalle Street, 1BR 1BA, Kitchen appliances only. Utilities included $1000/month 504-782-7837

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

PUBLIC NOTICE --ADVERTISEMENT TO INVITATION TO BID CITY OF NEW ORLEANS SPONSORING DEPARTMENT: Equipment Maintenance Division (EMD) TITLE: Repairs and Services for General Motors Vehicles SOURCING EVENT NO.: 4800 TYPE OF SOLICITATION: NON-PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DBE OPPORTUNITY: WAIVED RELEASED ON: September 18, 2026 DEADLINE TO RESPOND: October 9, 2026 PRE-BID CONFERENCE: September 28, 2026 Dates are subject to changes via an adden‐ dum posted by the Bu‐ reau of Purchasing on the City’s supplier portal. If this solicitation is fed‐ erally funded, prospec‐ tive bidder/respondent must pay particular at‐ tention to all applicable laws and regulations of the Federal government and the State of Louisiana.

SOURCING EVENT NO.: 4799

Sureties will be required to meet qualiﬁcations set forth in LSA-R.S. 38:2218 and R.S. 38:2219 as applicable, and as set forth in the Contract Doc‐ uments.

TYPE OF SOLICITATION: NON-PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

COMMODITY CODE(s): 928-04, 928-47, 928-86, 928-87, 934-46

DBE OPPORTUNITY: WAIVED

Publish: Advocate (Baton Rouge and New Orleans) 9/17/26, 9/24/26 and 10/1/26. 200840-Sep 17-24-Oct 1-3t $202.63

PUBLIC NOTICE --ADVERTISEMENT TO INVITATION TO BID CITY OF NEW ORLEANS SPONSORING DEPARTMENT: Equipment Maintenance Division (EMD) TITLE: Repairs and Services for John Deere Equipment SOURCING EVENT NO.: 4795 TYPE OF SOLICITATION: NON-PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DBE OPPORTUNITY: WAIVED RELEASED ON: September 18, 2026 DEADLINE TO RESPOND: October 9, 2026 PRE-BID CONFERENCE: Septermber 28, 2026 Dates are subject to changes via an adden‐ dum posted by the Bu‐ reau of Purchasing on the City’s supplier portal. If this solicitation is fed‐ erally funded, prospec‐ tive bidder/respondent must pay particular at‐ tention to all applicable laws and regulations of the Federal government and the State of Louisiana. The Bureau of Purchas‐ ing uses commodity codes to notify suppliers of the release of a sourc‐ ing event and subse‐ quent modiﬁcations via addendum. Note that you would receive those noti‐ ﬁcations if you selected the following commodity code(s) before the re‐ lease of the sourcing event: COMMODITY CODE(s): 928-04, 928-47, 928-86, 928-87, 934-46

DEADLINE TO RESPOND: October 9, 2026 PRE-BID CONFERENCE: September 28, 2026 Dates are subject to changes via an adden‐ dum posted by the Bu‐ reau of Purchasing on the City’s supplier portal. If this solicitation is fed‐ erally funded, prospec‐ tive bidder/respondent must pay particular at‐ tention to all applicable laws and regulations of the Federal government and the State of Louisiana. The Bureau of Purchas‐ ing uses commodity codes to notify suppliers of the release of a sourc‐ ing event and subse‐ quent modiﬁcations via addendum. Note that you would receive those noti‐ ﬁcations if you selected the following commodity code(s) before the re‐ lease of the sourcing event: COMMODITY CODE(s): 928-04, 928-47, 928-86, 928-87, 934-46 The City of New Orleans is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages minorityowned and womenowned businesses, so‐ cially and economically disadvantaged busi‐ nesses and small busi‐ nesses to respond to this solicitation, or to partici‐ pate in subcontracting opportunities pursuant to this solicitation. Any person with disabilities requires special accom‐ modation must contact the buyer listed within the bid no later than seven (7) days prior to bid opening. For more information about this sourcing event, go to www.nola. gov and click on “BRASS Supplier Portal” under “BIDS & CONTRACTS”. Once on the Supplier Por‐ tal, search “Open Events.” Thank you for your inter‐ est in doing business with the City of New Or‐ leans. Advertising Dates: September 18, 24 and October 1, 2026 NOCP 9308 201666-sept 18-24-oct 13t $114.36

METAIRIE 3513 EDENBORN AVENUE Lrg 2 Bed, 1 Bath * $925 * Off St Prkg Blocks from Lakeside 504-982-4040 * 504-885-8060 504-454-1333

GENTILLY 2544 ALLEN TOUSSAINT BLVD. NEWLY RENOVATED!!! 1-2 Bdrm Apts * From $800/mo Parking * Sec Gate 504-209-8054 * 504-454-1333

DUPLEX 4752 Francis Dr., 3BR/2BA, $1550/month Section 8 ok, Central Air & Heat 504-289-7595

APARTMENT

KENNER 2850 IDAHO AVENUE 1 Block to Vets & Williams All Amenities * Pool * Parking Studio/1 Bed Apt * Starting $675/Mo 504-385-5482 * 504-454-1333

HOUSE 327 S. Cortez St. 2 Bedroom Double, off-street parking. Section 8 okay $1500/month. 504-810-7020

APARTMENT METAIRIE

Pets 10,000 Apt Homes and 75 Locations with Studio, 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms Pools, Access Gates, Garages (504) 360-9347

CATS RAGAMUFFIN & RAGDOLL KITTENS www.CatsByFrancy.com/kittens $1500up! Reg. Shots & Guaranty 337-230-3150 CATS Young Male Cat, Gray Colors, Have too many cats, Looking for another home for him. Please call 504-861-9617 ($50) Beautiful puppies Yorkie puppies shots and dewormed $700.00 601543-4232 bettyparks159@gmail.com

New Orleans Rental

SPONSORING DEPARTMENT: Equipment Maintenance Division (EMD)

RELEASED ON: September 18, 2026

APARTMENT N.O. EAST * LITTLE WOODS SPECIAL 7819 SANDS STREET * 3 BD/2 BA Central A & H * Fenced Backyard Sec 8 Welcome. No Deposit. $1,200 504-241-6189 * 504-430-1162

APARTMENT

personnel@sontheimeroffshore.com

The successful Bidder will be required to fur‐ nish a Performance Bond guaranteeing faithful performance and a Labor and Materials Payment Bond guaranteeing the payment of all bills and obligations arising from the performance of the contract.

Delgado Community Col‐ lege reserves the right to reject any or all bids, to waive any and all informalities, and to re‐ ject nonconforming, nonresponsive, or condi‐ tional bids whichever is in the best interest of Delgado Com‐ munity College.

APARTMENT

METAIRIE 3201 RICHLAND AVENUE 1/2 Block off Vets * by Paretti Jaguar 1 Bed * Prkg * Pool * Rent $675/mo 504-320-6958 * 504-454-1333

Must hold TWIC card, pass drug test & physical. 985-851-0727 or email:

TITLE: Repairs and Services for Freightliner Vehicles

APARTMENT

NOW HIRING Galleyhands Night Cooks

APARTMENT 7113 Boston Dr. Townhouse, Section 8 $1200. Gail (504) 239-2885

Health and Wellness Audien Hearing. The world’s ﬁrst hearing aid with touchscreen

A mandatory pre-bid conference will be held at the Maritime & Indus‐ trial Training Center lo‐ cated at 13200 Old Gentilly Road, New Orleans, LA 70129, on 10/6/26 at 10:00 a.m. CST.

SLDBE OPPORTUNITY: WAIVED

controls. No tiny buttons, apps or prescriptions. 45-day risk free trial. Free shipping. Lifetime support. More than 1.5 million happy customers. Call Audien 1-866-6788713.

APARTMENT ESPLANADE RIDGE The Carson Company, Inc. 5900 Hayne Blvd., 1Bd/1Ba..........$695 2900 Third St., 1Bd/1Ba.................$700 3953 Delachaise St. (Up), 3/1.......$950 8940 Dinkins St., 2Bds/1Ba...........$995 2300 N. Broad St., 1Bd/1Ba.........$1135 5910 Hayne Blvd. Up 4/1.....(Sec 8 OK) 2441 N. Robertson St., 2/1..........$1320 8904 Olive St., 3Bds/1Ba.............$1350 2503 S. Dorgenois St., 2/1...(Sec 8 OK) 1222 S Salcedo #201, Up, 2/1.....$1639 821-1858 * 822-8432 * 427-4646

For more information about this sourcing event, go to www.nola. gov and click on “BRASS Supplier Portal” under “BIDS & CONTRACTS”. Once on the Supplier Por‐ tal, search “Open Events.” Thank you for your inter‐ est in doing business with the City of New Or‐ leans. Advertising Dates: September 18, 24 and October 1, 2026 NOCP 9309 201069-sept 18-24-oct 13t $115.38 PUBLIC NOTICE --ADVERTISEMENT TO INVITATION TO BID CITY OF NEW ORLEANS SPONSORING DEPARTMENT: Equipment Maintenance Division (EMD) TITLE: Repairs and Services for Steallntis Vehicles SOURCING EVENT NO.: 4797 TYPE OF SOLICITATION: NON-PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DBE OPPORTUNITY: WAIVED RELEASED ON: September 18, 2026 DEADLINE TO RESPOND: October 9, 2026 PRE-BID CONFERENCE: September 28, 2026 Dates are subject to changes via an adden‐ dum posted by the Bu‐ reau of Purchasing on the City’s supplier portal. If this solicitation is fed‐ erally funded, prospec‐ tive bidder/respondent must pay particular at‐ tention to all applicable laws and regulations of the Federal government d h f

3BR/2BA welcome,

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

and the Louisiana.

g State

The Bureau of Purchas‐ ing uses commodity codes to notify suppliers of the release of a sourc‐ ing event and subse‐ quent modifications via addendum. Note that you would receive those noti‐ fications if you selected the following commodity code(s) before the re‐ lease of the sourcing event: COMMODITY CODE(s): 928-04, 928-47, 928-86, 928-87, 934-46 The City of New Orleans is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages minorityowned and womenowned businesses, so‐ cially and economically disadvantaged busi‐ nesses and small busi‐ nesses to respond to this solicitation, or to partici‐ pate in subcontracting opportunities pursuant to this solicitation. Any person with disabilities requires special accom‐ modation must contact the buyer listed within the bid no later than seven (7) days prior to bid opening. For more information about this sourcing event, go to www.nola. gov and click on “BRASS Supplier Portal” under “BIDS & CONTRACTS”. Once on the Supplier Por‐ tal, search “Open Events.” Thank you for your inter‐ est in doing business with the City of New Or‐ leans. Advertising Dates: September 18, 24 and October 1, 2026 NOCP 9306 201064-sept 18-24-oct 13t $114.36 PUBLIC NOTICE --ADVERTISEMENT TO INVITATION TO BID CITY OF NEW ORLEANS SPONSORING DEPARTMENT: Equipment Maintenance Division (EMD) TITLE: Repairs and Services for Turf Equipment SOURCING EVENT NO.: 4798 TYPE OF SOLICITATION: NON-PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DBE OPPORTUNITY: WAIVED RELEASED ON: September 18, 2026 DEADLINE TO RESPOND: October 9, 2026 PRE-BID CONFERENCE: September 28, 2026 Dates are subject to changes via an adden‐ dum posted by the Bu‐ reau of Purchasing on the City’s supplier portal. If this solicitation is fed‐ erally funded, prospec‐ tive bidder/respondent must pay particular at‐ tention to all applicable laws and regulations of the Federal government and the State of Louisiana. The Bureau of Purchas‐ ing uses commodity codes to notify suppliers of the release of a sourc‐ ing event and subse‐ quent modifications via addendum. Note that you would receive those noti‐ fications if you selected the following commodity code(s) before the re‐ lease of the sourcing event:

METAIRIE 2720 WHITNEY PLACE UNIT #504 • $1,500/Mo

Automotive 2019 HYUNDAI ELANTRA 2.0L Limited needs some body work. Motor and transmission good. $3500 or best offer. 504-235-3223.

2 Bdrm / 2 Bath Condo. ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED! New Carpet & ﬂrg, quartz countertops in baths. No pets. 2-yr lease. Laundry Rm on 1st ﬂoor. Guard @ night. Sandy Ward * 504-259-2616. Re/Max Living * 504-475-1011. Ea ofc indpntly owned & operated.

Looking for the right hire?

NEWS 24/7 ON

1-800-960-6397

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

Once on the Supplier Por‐ tal, search “Open Events.” Thank you for your inter‐ est in doing business with the City of New Or‐ leans. Advertising Dates: September 18, 24 and October 1, 2026 NOCP 9307 201065-sept 18-24-oct 13t $114.36 PUBLIC NOTICE --ADVERTISEMENT TO INVITATION TO BID CITY OF NEW ORLEANS SPONSORING DEPARTMENT: Equipment Maintenance Division (EMD)

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

leans.

Public Notices Bids/Proposals g September 18, 24 and October 1, 2026 NOCP 9310

Advertising Dates: September 18, 24 and October 1, 2026 NOCP 9312 201076-sept 18-24-oct 13t $114.36 PUBLIC NOTICE --ADVERTISEMENT TO INVITATION TO BID CITY OF NEW ORLEANS SPONSORING DEPARTMENT: Equipment Maintenance Division (EMD)

201071-sept 18-24-oct 13t $114.36 PUBLIC NOTICE --ADVERTISEMENT TO INVITATION TO BID CITY OF NEW ORLEANS SPONSORING DEPARTMENT: Equipment Maintenance Division (EMD) TITLE: Bulk 87 Octane and 10% Ethanol Fuel

TITLE: Repairs and Services for International Trucks

SOURCING EVENT NO.: 4802

SOURCING EVENT NO.: 4801

TYPE OF SOLICITATION: NON-PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

TITLE: Preventative Maintenance Services

TYPE OF SOLICITATION: NON-PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

SOURCING EVENT NO.: 4803

DBE OPPORTUNITY: WAIVED

RELEASED ON: September 18, 2026

TYPE OF SOLICITATION: NON-PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

RELEASED ON: September 18, 2026

DEADLINE TO RESPOND: October 9, 2026

PRE-BID CONFERENCE: September 29, 2026

PRE-BID CONFERENCE: September 28, 2026

Dates are subject to changes via an adden‐ dum posted by the Bu‐ reau of Purchasing on the City’s supplier portal.

DBE OPPORTUNITY: WAIVED RELEASED ON: September 18, 2026 DEADLINE TO RESPOND: October 9, 2026 PRE-BID CONFERENCE: September 29, 2026 Dates are subject to changes via an adden‐ dum posted by the Bu‐ reau of Purchasing on the City’s supplier portal. If this solicitation is fed‐ erally funded, prospec‐ tive bidder/respondent must pay particular at‐ tention to all applicable laws and regulations of the Federal government and the State of Louisiana. The Bureau of Purchas‐ ing uses commodity codes to notify suppliers of the release of a sourc‐ ing event and subse‐ quent modiﬁcations via addendum. Note that you would receive those noti‐ ﬁcations if you selected the following commodity code(s) before the re‐ lease of the sourcing event: COMMODITY CODE(s): 928-04, 928-47, 928-86, 928-87, 934-46 The City of New Orleans is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages minorityowned and womenowned businesses, so‐ cially and economically disadvantaged busi‐ nesses and small busi‐ nesses to respond to this solicitation, or to partici‐ pate in subcontracting opportunities pursuant to this solicitation. Any person with disabilities requires special accom‐ modation must contact the buyer listed within the bid no later than seven (7) days prior to bid opening. For more information about this sourcing event, go to www.nola. gov and click on “BRASS Supplier Portal” under “BIDS & CONTRACTS”. Once on the Supplier Por‐ tal, search “Open Events.” Thank you for your inter‐ est in doing business with the City of New Or‐ l

Dates are subject to changes via an adden‐ dum posted by the Bu‐ reau of Purchasing on the City’s supplier portal. If this solicitation is fed‐ erally funded, prospec‐ tive bidder/respondent must pay particular at‐ tention to all applicable laws and regulations of the Federal government and the State of Louisiana. The Bureau of Purchas‐ ing uses commodity codes to notify suppliers of the release of a sourc‐ ing event and subse‐ quent modiﬁcations via addendum. Note that you would receive those noti‐ ﬁcations if you selected the following commodity code(s) before the re‐ lease of the sourcing event: COMMODITY CODE(s): 928-04, 928-47, 928-86, 928-87, 934-46 The City of New Orleans is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages minorityowned and womenowned businesses, so‐ cially and economically disadvantaged busi‐ nesses and small busi‐ nesses to respond to this solicitation, or to partici‐ pate in subcontracting opportunities pursuant to this solicitation. Any person with disabilities requires special accom‐ modation must contact the buyer listed within the bid no later than seven (7) days prior to bid opening. For more information about this sourcing event, go to www.nola. gov and click on “BRASS Supplier Portal” under “BIDS & CONTRACTS”. Once on the Supplier Por‐ tal, search “Open Events.” Thank you for your inter‐ est in doing business with the City of New Or‐ leans. Advertising Dates: b d

DBE OPPORTUNITY: 35%

If this solicitation is fed‐ erally funded, prospec‐ tive bidder/respondent must pay particular at‐ tention to all applicable laws and regulations of the Federal government and the State of Louisiana. The Bureau of Purchas‐ ing uses commodity codes to notify suppliers of the release of a sourc‐ ing event and subse‐ quent modiﬁcations via addendum. Note that you would receive those noti‐ ﬁcations if you selected the following commodity code(s) before the re‐ lease of the sourcing event: COMMODITY CODE(s): 405-15 The City of New Orleans is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages minorityowned and womenowned businesses, so‐ cially and economically disadvantaged busi‐ nesses and small busi‐ nesses to respond to this solicitation, or to partici‐ pate in subcontracting opportunities pursuant to this solicitation. Any person with disabilities requires special accom‐ modation must contact the buyer listed within the bid no later than seven (7) days prior to bid opening. For more information about this sourcing event, go to www.nola. gov and click on “BRASS Supplier Portal” under “BIDS & CONTRACTS”. Once on the Supplier Por‐ tal, search “Open Events.” Thank you for your inter‐ est in doing business with the City of New Or‐ leans. Advertising Dates: September 18, 24 and October 1, 2026 NOCP 9311 201073-sept 18-24-oct 13t $113.37

COMMODITY CODE(s): 928-04, 928-47, 928-86, 928-87, 934-46 The City of New Orleans is an equal opportunity employer and strongly encourages minorityowned and womenowned businesses, so‐ cially and economically disadvantaged busi‐ nesses and small busi‐ nesses to respond to this solicitation, or to partici‐ pate in subcontracting opportunities pursuant to this solicitation. Any person with disabilities requires special accom‐ modation must contact the buyer listed within the bid no later than seven (7) days prior to bid opening. For more information about this sourcing event, go to www.nola. gov and click on “BRASS Supplier Portal” under “BIDS & CONTRACTS”.

For the latest news, sports and entertainment, download the NOLA.com app

8D ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune Public Notices Bids/Proposals

PUBLIC NOTICE --ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD Procurement Department 2401 Westbank Parkway, Suite 5055 New Orleans, Louisiana 70114 ADVERTISEMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO. 27-0057 ENTERPRISE OPERA‐ TIONAL EXCELLENCE & DIGITAL TRANSFORMA‐ TION ASSESSMENT Electronic Responses to Request for Proposal rel‐ ative to the above will be received via email sub‐ mission to the Procure‐ ment Department for the Orleans Parish School Board (“OPSB” or “the District”) at 2401 West‐ bend Parkway, Suite 5055, New Orleans, Louisiana 70114 until 10:00 A.M. (CST) on Tues‐ day, October 20, 2026. Speciﬁcations and quali‐ ﬁcations documents may be obtained by visiting the District’s website at www.nolapublicschools. com. All questions re‐ garding this RFP shall be directed to the Executive Director of Procurement at procurement@nol apublicschools.com. The District will host a Virtual Pre-Proposal meeting to be held on Friday, October 2, 2026, at 10:00 A.M. (CST). The Vir‐ tual link can be found below: Register in advance for this meeting: https://us06web.zoom. us/meeting/register/Dno JHcfjQDG5btJoqXR4gQ The District reserves the right to reject any or all Responses to Request for Proposal whenever such rejection is in its best in‐ terest in accordance with law. The provisions and requirements of this ad‐ vertisement shall not be waived. NOLA Public Schools shall make every effort to provide reasonable ac‐ commodations for per‐ sons with disabilities. The requests for any rea‐ sonable accommodation shall be submitted in writing to the Executive Director of Procurement, no less than seven (7) days in advance of any meetings. Paul A. Lucius Executive Director of Pro‐ curement FIRST INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026 SECOND INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 THIRD INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026 200844-sep 17-24-oct 1-3t $127.24 PUBLIC NOTICE --ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD Procurement Department 2401 Westbend Parkway, Suite 5055 New Orleans, Louisiana 70114 ADVERTISEMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO. 27-0043 STRATEGIC PLAN RE‐ FRESH Electronic Responses to Request for Proposal rel‐ ative to the above will be received via email sub‐ mission to the Procure‐

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

ment Department for the Orleans Parish School Board (“OPSB” or “the District”) at 2401 West‐ bend Parkway, Suite 5055, New Orleans, Louisiana 70114 until 10:00 A.M. (CST) on Tues‐ day, October 27, 2026.

at procurement@nol apublicschools.com.

Speciﬁcations and quali‐ ﬁcations are found in the RFP documents and may be obtained by visiting the District’s website at www.nolapublicschools. com. All questions re‐ garding this RFP shall be directed to the Executive Director of Procurement at procurement@nol apublicschools.com. The District will host a Virtual Pre-Proposal meeting to be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 10:00 A.M. (CST). The Vir‐ tual link can be found below: Register in advance for this meeting: https://us06web.zoom. us/meeting/register/ TKLhmpj4Q_ e7LHCCzbzB_Q The District reserves the right to reject any or all Responses to Request for Proposal whenever such rejection is in its best in‐ terest in accordance with law. The provisions and requirements of this ad‐ vertisement shall not be waived. NOLA Public Schools shall make every effort to provide reasonable ac‐ commodations for per‐ sons with disabilities. The requests for any rea‐ sonable accommodation shall be submitted in writing to the Executive Director of Procurement, no less than seven (7) days in advance of any meetings. Paul A. Lucius Executive Director of Procurement FIRST INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 SECOND INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026 THIRD INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026 201757-sep 24-oct 1-8-3t $127.24

PUBLIC NOTICE --ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD Procurement Department 2401 Westbend Parkway, Suite 5055 New Orleans, Louisiana 70114 ADVERTISEMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO. 27-0062 PROJECT AND CON‐ STRUCTION MANAGE‐ MENT SERVICES Electronic Responses to Request for Proposal rel‐ ative to the above will be received via email sub‐ mission to the Procure‐ ment Department for the Orleans Parish School Board (“OPSB” or “the District”) at 2401 West‐ bend Parkway, Suite 5055, New Orleans, Louisiana 70114 until 11:00 A.M. (CST) on Thursday, October 22, 2026. Speciﬁcations and quali‐ ﬁcations are found in the RFP documents and may be obtained by visiting the District’s website at www.nolapublicschools. com. All questions re‐ garding this RFP shall be directed to the Executive Director of Procurement

The District will host a Virtual Pre-Proposal meeting to be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. (CST). The Vir‐ tual link can be found below: Register in advance for this meeting: https://us06web.zoom. us/meeting/register/TVr 3q0U2SmeF3w4cxmv6Cw The District reserves the right to reject any or all Responses to Request for Proposal whenever such rejection is in its best in‐ terest in accordance with law. The provisions and requirements of this ad‐ vertisement shall not be waived. NOLA Public Schools shall make every effort to provide reasonable ac‐ commodations for per‐ sons with disabilities. The requests for any rea‐ sonable accommodation shall be submitted in writing to the Executive Director of Procurement, no less than seven (7) days in advance of any meetings. Paul A. Lucius Executive Director of Pro‐ curement FIRST INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY , SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 SECOND INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY , OCTOBER 1. 2026 THIRD INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY , OCTOBER 8 , 2026 201799-sep 24-oct 1-8-3t $128

PUBLIC NOTICE --ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD Procurement Department 2401 Westbend Parkway, Suite 5055 New Orleans, Louisiana 70114 ADVERTISEMENT INVITATION TO BID NO. 27-FAC-0059 LEASE OF SPACE FOR 2832 GENERAL MEYER AVENUE Electronic Responses to Request for Proposal rel‐ ative to the above will be received via email sub‐ mission to the Procure‐ ment Department for the Orleans Parish School Board (“OPSB” or “the District”) until 11:00 A.M. (CST) on Tuesday, Octo‐ ber 20, 2026. Speciﬁcations and quali‐ ﬁcations are found in the ITB documents and may be obtained by visiting the District’s website at www.nolapublicschools. com. All questions re‐ garding this ITB shall be directed to the Executive Director of Procurement at procurement@nol apublicschools.com. The District will host a Site Visit on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. (CST). The Registra‐ tion link can be found below: Register in advance for Site Visit Site Visit Registration at 2832 General Meyer – Fill out form The District reserves the right to reject any or all Responses to Request for Proposal whenever such rejection is in its best in‐ terest in accordance with law. The provisions and requirements of this ad‐ vertisement shall not be

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Public Notices Bids/Proposals

2026 THIRD INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2026

waived. NOLA Public Schools shall make every effort to provide reasonable ac‐ commodation for people with disabilities. The re‐ quests for any reason‐ able accommodation shall be submitted in writing to the Executive Director of Procurement, no less than seven (7) days in advance of any meetings.

201725-sep 24-oct 1-8-3t $126.22 PUBLIC NOTICE --REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Downtown Development District of the City of New Orleans

Paul A. Lucius Executive Director of Procurement

Safe Streets for All Supplemental Trans‐ portation Safety Action Plan RFP #2026 - 20 - 01

FIRST INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 SECOND INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

The mission of the DDD is to drive the development of Downtown New Or‐ leans and be the catalyst for a prosperous, stimu‐ lating, innovative heart of the Crescent City.

201734-SEP 24-OCT 1-2T $87.78

PUBLIC NOTICE --ORLEANS PARISH SCHOOL BOARD Procurement Department 2401 Westbend Parkway, Suite 5055 New Orleans, Louisiana 70114 ADVERTISEMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL NO. 27-0058 EC ADVERTISEMENT AND MARKETING Electronic Responses to Request for Proposal rel‐ ative to the above will be received via email sub‐ mission to the Procure‐ ment Department for the Orleans Parish School Board (“OPSB” or “the District”) at 2401 West‐ bend Parkway, Suite 5055, New Orleans, Louisiana 70114 until 11:00 A.M. (CST) on Tues‐ day, October 27, 2026. Speciﬁcations and quali‐ ﬁcations are found in the RFP documents and may be obtained by visiting the District’s website at www.nolapublicschools. com. All questions re‐ garding this RFP shall be directed to the Executive Director of Procurement at procurement@nol apublicschools.com.

Notice is hereby given that a Request for Pro‐ posals for the Safe Streets for All Supple‐ mental Transportation Safety Action Plan for the DDD. Proposals will be re‐ ceived by the Downtown Development District of the City of New Orleans (DDD) located at 201 Saint Charles Ave, Ste. 3912, New Orleans, LA, 70170 until October 28, 2026, at 2:00 pm, central time or via electronic manner to rpastorek@ downtownnola.com For more information send name, address, phone number and email address to René Pas‐ torek, Chief Economic Development Ofﬁcer at rpastorek@downtownnol a.com

For more information about this sourcing event, go to www.nola. gov and click on “BRASS Supplier Portal” under “BIDS & CONTRACTS”. Once on the Supplier Por‐ tal, search “Open Events.”

The DDD reserves the right to accept or reject any and all items or por‐ tions of items received.

Thank you for your inter‐ est in doing business with the City of New Or‐ leans.

Seth Knudsen President & CEO

Advertising Dates: September 18, 24 and October 1, 2026 NOCP 9305

201524-sep 24-oct 1-8-3t $66.87

Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE ---

https://us06web.zoom. us/meeting/register/aCD 5l7pUTPCccaje1vXysQ

ADVERTISEMENT TO INVITATION TO BID CITY OF NEW ORLEANS

The District reserves the right to reject any or all Responses to Request for Proposal whenever such rejection is in its best in‐ terest in accordance with law. The provisions and requirements of this ad‐ vertisement shall not be waived.

SPONSORING DEPARTMENT: Equipment Maintenance Division (EMD) TITLE: Repairs and Services for Caterpillar Engine SOURCING EVENT NO.: 4796

NOLA Public Schools shall make every effort to provide reasonable ac‐ commodations for per‐ sons with disabilities. The requests for any rea‐ sonable accommodation shall be submitted in writing to the Executive Director of Procurement, no less than seven (7) days in advance of any meetings.

TYPE OF SOLICITATION: NON-PROFESSIONAL SERVICES DBE OPPORTUNITY: WAIVED RELEASED ON: September 18, 2026 DEADLINE TO RESPOND: October 9, 2026

Paul A. Lucius Executive Director of Procurement

PRE-BID CONFERENCE: September 28, 2026

FIRST INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 SECOND INSERTION DATE: THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1,

g the City’s supplier portal.

Advertising Dates: September 24, 2026 October 1, 2026 October 8, 2026

The District will host a Virtual Pre-Proposal meeting to be held on Friday, October 9, 2026, at 11:00 A.M. (CST). The Vir‐ tual link can be found below:

Legal Notices

Dates are subject to changes via an adden‐ dum posted by the Bu‐ reau of Purchasing on h i li l

201063-sept 18-24-oct 13t $114.36 PUBLIC NOTICE --Einstein Charter Schools hereby reports that it has taken all action required by law for the adoption of its budget for ﬁscal year ending June 30, 2027. Including public no‐ tice of availability for public inspection and holding a public hearing thereon before adopting its budget. Einstein Charter Schools does not discriminate in the rendering of services to/or employment of in‐ dividuals because of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, dis‐ ability, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. 201814-SEP 24-1T $96.88 PUBLIC NOTICE --New Orleans Military and Maritime Academy (NOMMA) hereby reports that it has taken all ac‐ tion required by law for the adoption of its bud‐ get for ﬁscal year ending June 30, 2027. Including public notice of availabil‐ ity for public inspection and holding a public hearing thereon before adopting its budget. NOMMA does not dis‐

Legal Notices

criminate in the render‐ ing of services to/or em‐ ployment of individuals because of race, color, religion, sex, age, na‐ tional origin, disability, veteran status or any other characteristic pro‐ tected by law. 201813-SEP 24-1T $99.43

PUBLIC NOTICE --Notice is hereby given that Steven Courtney Gill intends to petition for readmission to the prac‐ tice of law. Anyone con‐ curring/ opposing this petition must ﬁle notice with the Louisiana Attor‐ ney Disciplinary Board 2800 Veterans Memorial Blvd Ste 310 Metairie La 70002. 201767-sep 23-25-3t $156.43 PUBLIC NOTICE --Project-Based Voucher Waiting Lists Opening for Two Properties The Housing Authority of New Orleans (HANO) an‐ nounces that the waiting list for the Project-Based Voucher (PBV) housing sites listed below will open on Monday, Sep‐ tember 28, 2026, and close on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. All eligible pre-applications received during the open application period will be assigned a lottery num‐ ber. Only applicants ran‐ domly assigned lottery numbers 1–300 will be placed on the property’s waiting list. Please note that only online pre-ap‐ plications from families who qualify for a studio or one-bedroom, unit (s) will be accepted. Sub‐ mission of an online preapplication does not guarantee placement on the waiting list and placement on the waiting list does not guarantee program eligibility or an offer of housing.

Who is Eligible? • The family must be eli‐ gible for a studio, or onebedroom unit according to HANO’s occupancy standards and deﬁnition of elderly. • HANO’s deﬁnition of el‐ derly is a person who is at least 62 years of age. • Eligibility is based on household income, citi‐ zenship, and the ability of the family to meet screening requirements. • HANO does not discrim‐ inate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, familial status, or disability. How to Apply 1. Obtain an online appli‐ cation: online pre-appli‐ cation forms may be ac‐ cessed on HANO's web‐ site starting on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. and close on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. 2. Complete & Submit Online Pre-Application: online pre-applications must be completed and submitted on HANO's website - https://hano. myhousing.com. If fur‐ ther assistance is needed, please contact the Project-Based Voucher Department at (504) 670-3468. Important: If you are an individual with disabili‐ ties and need assistance with the online applica‐ tion process for the prop‐ erties with an asterisk (*), please contact the property to make f

Legal Notices

p p y arrangements for com‐ pleting and submitting your online application. For any other property, please contact HANO's Project-Based Voucher Department at (504) 6703468 to make arrange‐ ments for completing and submitting your on‐ line application. You can also call HANO if you have questions regarding this online application process or do not speak English and need transla‐ tion assistance.

g more fully described in T&M Holdings, LLC's Complaint For Exonera‐ tion From or Limitation of Liability ("Complaint"). All persons having such claims must ﬁle their re‐ spective claims, as pro‐ vided in Rule F of the Supplemental Rules for Admiralty or Maritime Claims of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure, with the Clerk of Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, Carol L. Michel, United States Courthouse, 500 Poydras Street, Room C151, New Orleans, LA 70130, and must serve a copy thereof on counsel for Limitation Petitioner, Al‐ fred J. Rufty, III and Austin S. Glascoe of the ﬁrm of Jones Walker LLP, 201 St. Charles Ave., 48th Floor, New Orleans, LA 70170 on or before the 31st day of October, 2026, or be defaulted.

Placement on the Wait‐ ing List • Online pre-applications will be reviewed to en‐ sure that the applicant's family qualiﬁes for the housing available for the bedroom size. • Only pre-applications with a lottery number between 1-300 will be added to the waiting list. All other pre-applications will be denied and will not be placed on the waiting list. • Online applications re‐ ceived after the applica‐ tion closing deadline WILL NOT be placed on the waiting list • After being placed on the waiting list, the wait‐ ing time is determined by applicant order on the waiting list; the bedroom size required; and unit vacancy Property Name, Location, Bedroom Size, Expected Date of Availability: Elderly Site Capdau Home for the Aged • 3821 Franklin Ave., New Orleans LA 70122 Studio and 1-bedroom units Expected Date of Avail‐ ability: October 1, 2026

If any claimant desires to contest either the right to exoneration from or the right to limitation of liability, that claimant shall ﬁle and serve on counsel for the Limita‐ tion Petitioner an answer to the Complaint on or before the aforesaid date unless the claim has in‐ cluded an answer, so designated, or be de‐ faulted. Personal attendance is not required. Date: Aug 12 2026 Carol L. Michel Name of clerk of court L. Guillot Deputy clerk's signature 198152-sep 3-10-17-24-4t $1,118.92

Non-Elderly Site

Grove Place 2 Apartments • 3635 Earhart Blvd., 70118 1-bedroom units Expected Date of Availability: October 1, 2026 201770-SEP 24-1T $55.98

PUBLIC NOTICE --UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT EASTERN DISTRICT OF LOUISIANA IN RE: THE MATTER OF T&M HOLDINGS, AS OWNER OF THE M/V DOU‐ GLAS, PETITIONING FOR EXONERATION FROM OR LIMITATION OF LIABILITY CIVIL ACTION NO.: 252286 c/w 26-1694 Applies to: 26-1694 SECTION: A JUDGE: Jay C. Zainey MAGISTRATE JUDGE: Karen Wells Roby ADMIRALTY - Rule 9(h)

Reporting you can trust on stories that matter

NOTICE TO CLAIMANTS OF COMPLAINT FOR EXON‐ ERATION FROM OR LIMI‐ TATION OF LIABILITY NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that T&M Holdings, LLC, as owner and operator of the M/V DOUGLAS, her engines, tackle, gear, fur‐ niture, appurtenances, etc. (hereinafter "the Vessel"), has ﬁled a Complaint, pursuant to 46 U.S.C. §§ 30501, et seq., for exoneration from or limitation of lia‐ bility for all claims for any and all loss of life, in‐ jury, loss of property, de‐ struction, or damage, arising out of or related to the casualty allegedly involving the Vessel as is f ll d ib d i

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THE TIMES-PICAYUNE

Sept. 24, 2026

FASHION FORWARD NOLAxNOLA brings over 300 concerts and live music page 10

New Orleans Fashion Week returns for its 16th season page 6

‘Flamboyants!’ connects Creole culture from Reunion Island page 5

2 ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

don’t miss lll

alligator festival Head to West Bank Bridge Park through Sunday to ﬁnd live alligators, amusement rides, food vendors, over 80 craft booths and live music. Thursday is locals night with free admission from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. There is a $5 admission fee through the weekend. Children ages 10 and under get in free. Proceeds support the Rotary Club of St. Charles Parish’s efforts to provide college scholarships to local youth. alligatorfestival.org.

saints kickoff run

Join the Black & Gold on the ﬁeld for their 60th year when the annual 5K returns to the Caesars Superdome at 7:30 a.m. Saturday. The 5K is sold out, but children ages 4-14 and their parents can sign up for the Kids Fun Run, a half-mile run or walk starting in Champions Square at 9:15 a.m. and ﬁnishing at the 50-yard line. Portions of Poydras and South Peters streets will be closed early.

festivals in the east

locals fest

New Orleans East hosts two different festivals this weekend. The International Arts Festival brings music acts from across the globe to The Public Market at South Shore Harbor, 6901 Stars and Stripes Blvd., through Sunday. And the NOLA East Festival returns for a ﬁfth year to Joe W. Brown Park, 5601 Read Blvd., from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday with entertainment, food vendors and family fun.

Created to showcase local musical talent, the LOCALS Fest (“Loving Our Community As Louisiana”) returns to Armstrong Park with three stages starting at 11 a.m. Saturday. Featured acts include Big Sam’s Funky Nation, Bo Dollis Jr. and the Wild Magnolias, Raw Revolution, Sporty’s Brass Band, DJ RQ Away, Krewe Debauchery and more. General admission and parking is free, and VIP passes are $50 for air-conditioned bathrooms, drink tickets and an elevated viewing area.

earlybirds club dance party Following the national trend of early dance parties for the millennial and middle-aged, the Chicago-based Earlybirds Club brings the touring event to the House of Blues from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday. For ladies and those who identify as nonbinary, the party focuses on having fun at a reasonable hour. Expect hits from the ’80s, ’90s and 2000s. Tickets start at $34.90. early-birds.club.

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don’t miss

local theater Shows across the New Orleans area this week include: n “Jersey Boys” — (touring Broadway production) Saenger Theatre n “Finding Neverland” — Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts n “Xanadu” — Evangeline Theater Co. n “Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike” — Playmakers Theater n “My Fair Lady” — Jefferson Performing Arts Westwego n “Amadeus” — Canoa Nola n “2001: An Odyssey into the Deep” — Aqua Mob adapts “2001: A Space Odyssey” at Midtown Hotel

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ 3

ABOUT LAGNIAPPE

The Lagniappe section is published each Thursday by The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate. All inquiries about Lagniappe should be directed to the editor. LAGNIAPPE EDITOR: Lauren Walck, lauren.walck@theadvocate.com COVER DESIGN: Cassandra Brown CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Judy Bergeron, Marco Cartolano, Will Coviello, Keith Spera

GET LISTED IN LAGNIAPPE

Submit events to Lagniappe at least two weeks in advance by sending an email to events@theadvocate.com.

ON THE COVER

A look by Afri Modiste is shown at a previous New Orleans Fashion Week.

PRESENTS

YLOR LLARY TA

BY HI PHOTOS

K E N L U D W IG ’S

, k c a J r a e D E DEAR LOUIS OCTOBER 2–4 | OCTOBER 9–11

SCAN FOR TICKETS

WHEN TWO STRANGERS MEET BY LETTER DURING WORLD WAR II,

a love story begins.

4 ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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110TH SEASON

GET TICKETS

Bianca Del Rio joins ‘Traitors’ Season 6 cast BY MARCO CARTOLANO

Other “Drag Race” contestants who have competed on the show include Bob the Drag Queen, Peppermint and New Orleans-area native Bianca Del Monét X Change. Del Rio has for years served as an Rio will be the latest star of “RuPaul’s announcer for the Bourbon Street Drag Race” to take on the role of Awards and has appeared in predator or prey in Season 6 of several costuming and local NBC’s hit reality series “The productions in New Orleans. Traitors.” She’s performed in the city Del Rio, who was born in several times after winning Gretna, was among the cast “Drag Race,” and in 2025, she members announced Friday was the monarch of the Krewe for the celebrity-led season set of Orpheus Mardi Gras parade. to air next year. “Bachelor” star Joey GraziaThe winner of Season 6 of Del Rio “Drag Race,” Del Rio became dei, who had previously lived a sensation for her insult comedy and in New Orleans with his ﬁancée and her wild “clown in a gown” persona. Season 28 winner Kelsey Anderson, is Del Rio may have a chance to deal also among the Season 6 cast. murder — along with shade — next “Traitors” premiered the ﬁrst two year on the social game show hosted episodes of its most recent season, by Alan Cumming. In the show, several “Traitors: New Blood,” last week. The contestants are named “Traitors” and show features an all “civilian” cast of must work together to boot the other players who had not previously been contestants, dubbed “Faithfuls,” withfamous. Abbey Benjamin, of Mangout being discovered. ham, is among the cast.

Staff writer

BY NEILSIMON Directed by Scott Burrell Preview October 1

Oct 2 – 18, 2026

BoxOffice@LePetitTheatre.com 504-522-2081 x 1

LePetitTheatre.com

New Special Exhibit on Display Now! See original WWII cartoons and reflect on how one illustrator helped generations of Americans understand the war—one drawing at a time.

SCAN TO LEARN MORE AND BUY TICKETS

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events

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ 5

ACROSS THE OCEANS ‘Flamboyants!’ connects Creole culture from Reunion Island to N.O.

BY WILL COVIELLO Contributing writer

A show that opens with Big Chief Juan Pardo singing “Indian Red,” a man who has woken up after having barely survived a huge storm, and his rescuers talking about preserving Creole identity sounds like it could only come from New Orleans. But in “Flamboyants!” the storm is a not a hurricane but a cyclone, and the Creole identity at stake in the opening scene is the culture of Reunion Island, a small island in the Indian Ocean a few hundred miles east of Madagascar. Writer, director and actor Florient Jousse, who plays the cyclone survivor, is from Reunion Island. He started working on the theatrical production three years ago, after he met Pardo in New Orleans while on tour with another show. Pardo went to Reunion Island to be in the original production of “Flamboyants!” and now it’s on a 23-show tour of the U.S., from New York to Puerto Rico. The company is in Louisiana this week, and there’s a full performance on Friday at Tulane University’s Dixon Hall. “Flamboyants!” bridges the Creole identities of Reunion, New Orleans and Puerto Rico, all places that were colonized by Europeans, who imported enslaved people. It features music and characters from each place, and they explore what Creole means to them. “Creoleness is pride in Reunion,” says Jousse, who is a native French and Creole speaker. “Creole, our language, is everywhere. It’s in the streets, before French (the ofﬁcial language). In reality, we speak Creole everywhere.” Reunion was an uninhabited island known to the Portuguese and Arabic travelers before the French colonized it in the 17th century. They brought enslaved Africans there to produce sugar. Over time, other people, especially laborers, arrived from southern India, China, Vietnam and the Malay Peninsula. While French remains the ofﬁcial lan-

Big Chief Juan Pardo, front row center, is in the international cast of ‘Flamboyants!’ guage, Creole has incorporated words from numerous languages. Reunion also has many influences, and its rich culture includes Maloya music, rooted in the island’s enslaved communities. Over time, many have embraced the Creole identity, and some have been leery. In the show, Madia and Zelito find the storm survivor, unsure if he is foreign or a native of the island, and they help him recover and orient himself. “Creole means together,” Madia says. “A tree cannot stand without its roots.” Zelito is more skeptical of what it has come to mean as the tropical island has become better known and attractive to tourists and newer, more affluent types of European immigrants. “Forgive me, Madia,” he says. “Creole doesn’t mean anything anymore. It’s just a spice, a postcard, a woman with curly hair and a flowery dress.” The two men have obviously had this debate before, and they get wrapped up in it again as they talk to the man, who they dub Kors Blan. They also share music, with Zelito playing various drums and Madia playing the ngoni, a West African stringed instrument with a round body and a long neck. Music becomes the bridge to other places, like New Orleans. Pardo sings

some traditional Indian songs and joins in other shared songs as well. He’s not the only character from Louisiana. Lawson, who also goes by the Nigerian Igbo language name Arisa, is a teacher in New Orleans. Part of his description of his Creole identity includes, “I am several continents in one body.” The show features two singers from Puerto Rico. Marien Torres Lopez and Ivelisse Diaz talk about their heritage and the mixing of indigenous culture and Spanish colonizers. They also introduce bomba music, and Diaz describes the two women as bomberas. As they share their music and personal stories, Kors Blan asks, “Why, in radically different places, do identical sensibilities begin to grow, without knowing each other?” Doing shows exploring the roots of culture is what led Jousse to found the Tilawcis theater company in Saint-Paul, a coastal city on Reunion Island, in 2019. The company takes an interdisciplinary approach, like its combination of theater and music here, and it often explores larger social issues through individual people’s predicaments. Jousse was born in France but grew up and has lived much of his life in Reunion. He studied and began his acting career in France, before moving home. The ﬁrst show Jousse and Tilawcis

PROVIDED PHOTO By KIM WELSH took on tour was “Frenesies” or “Frenzies.” It also combined music and poetic storytelling in a travel story in which a man searches for his roots and ancestors to better understand his life. It came to New Orleans in 2023, and that’s when Jousse met Pardo. He loved the Indians’ feathers and suits, but he was interested in the culture and roots of Indian traditions, Jousse says. That was the seed for “Flamboyants!” and his interest in ﬁnding the common aspects of Creole identity and looking for them elsewhere. Most of the characters retain the performer’s real name. Both from Reunion, Frederic Madia and Zelito Deliron started their performing careers primarily as musicians. The company’s hybrid approach means there are ﬁve languages in the show, including Reunion Creole, English and Spanish. There will be English supertitles at the performance. And the music includes Maloya, bomba, Indian songs and more, including a brass band. There’s more music after the theatrical show concludes. Some tour events, like the concert at the New Orleans Jazz Museum are dubbed “Connexions” and feature music from the show. Tickets are available via linktr.ee/ flamboyantstour. Information about the company is at tilawcis.com.

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SPACE TO LEFT: A dress by designer Debra Ales RIGHT: A dress by designer Sergio Paz

Design competition returns to New Orleans Fashion Week as 2026 event kicks off

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BY LAUREN WALCK | Staff writer

September has always meant fashion, from Vogue’s thick fall issue to previews of next season’s looks at shows in New York, Milan, Paris and London. But where one magazine and four cities once reigned, there’s now a globe full of diverse fashion weeks, including the Crescent City, where New Orleans Fashion Week returns for its 16th season this week, just days after local talent Jude Mikulencak won the latest season of “Project Runway.” What started 15 years ago as an effort to highlight New Orleans-made fashions and retailers has blossomed into an annual showcase of designers from across the Gulf Coast, founder Tracee Dundas said. It’s also brought in designers from as far away as Thailand and Kenya. “I think it’s that speaks to the spirit of New Orleans and … the creativity of wanting to be in the energy of our culture,” she said.

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O CREATE

New this year is a partnership with the Tampa Bay shion Experience, thanks to founder and New Sarpy nave Taneka Bowles, wife of Tampa Bay Buccaneers head ach Todd Bowles. “My family, the Leboyd family, are third-generation St. Charles Parish (natives), all graduates of Destrehan High School, go Wildcats!” she said. Her nonprofit combines fashion and philanthropy, donating fashion show proceeds to local organizations, including in both her and her husband’s hometowns, and especially those in the neurodivergent and lowincome housing spaces. As a longtime doBowles nor to Son of a Saint, the New Orleans nonofit that helps fatherless boys, Taneka Bowles wanted a gger stage to “light a fire under others to do the same.” She’s bringing Tampa’s design competition, called The itch, to New Orleans Fashion Week, which marks the turn of a competition event for the first time in over five ars. Eight local designers will compete for a spot in New rk Fashion Week at Bowles’ annual Art Hearts Fashion ow there. And the runner-up will get a boot camp with unway” royalty Christian Siriano. The judges evaluating the 10-piece collections include owles, local influencer Tamica Lee, Pedram Pasha Taheri Pedram Couture on Magazine Street and former LSU shion professor Lisa McRoberts Lewis. The competition will be at 6 p.m. Thursday in Canal ace, where the week’s main designer and retail showses also will be held at 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Those showcases feature collections from 26 established signers like Laura Citron, Ellen Macomber, Mimi Holay, Felicia Gillon’s Pamoja Na, Casmé and Taheri. Dundas said the week also offers a platform for new talt in modeling and cosmetology, and they partner with udents at the Aveda Institute and Delgado Community llege to give them real experience. “This is a very interesting time for fashion, just in genal,” Bowles said. “There’s such a pivot happening, and e whole stratosphere has changed.” No longer is it required to go to the “Big Four” cities at are hard to break into, she said, the ecosystem has own, with less emphasis on fashion houses and big ands, and more on sustainability and sourcing. “There are fashion weeks in almost every major city in merica now,” Bowles said.

PHOTOS PROVIDED By NEW ORLEANS FASHION WEEK

Looks by Cosmic Collective are shown at a previous New Orleans Fashion Week. “And these smaller offshoots are becoming a space where people can truly, freely create, which was what fashion was supposed to be about to begin with.” Like many other industries, the internet has become the more accessible platform for creators and designers to grow their brands where they are. For Dundas and Bowles, their goal is to provide in-person experiences to showcase new and diverse talent. “At the end of the day, there’s nothing like being able to see a garment in person and someone wearing it, and then better being able to visualize yourself … wearing it,” Dundas said. NOFW’s full schedule and tickets are available at neworleansfashionweek.com. Email Lauren Walck at lauren.walck@theadvocate.com.

THE STITCH DESIGNERS The competing designers are: n Jaelan Ricard, JaeRi Studios n Andrea Valentina, Artdrea n Kate Fusilier, Cosmic Collective n Skye Barker Maa, SKyEAIRE Official n Frank Robertson, H.I.M. Studios n Isaac Newton, Sir Isaac Newton n Julia DeJean, DeJean n Collin Semien, SEMI n Sylvester Wesley, Sylvester West n Denisio Truitt

8 ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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music

Pop star pop-up Raye spends Emmy night surprising crowd at New Orleans burlesque club

BY MARCO CARTOLANO

studio. The Original Nite Cap posted video Staff writer of Raye singing at the club on the secWhile hundreds celebrities toasted at ond ﬂoor of 1300 St. Bernard Ave. It’s a natural ﬁt for the 28-year-old, whose the Emmys and Taylor Swift watched eclectic music is heavily inspired by her husband play football in Kansas City beside Tom Cruise, pop star Raye classic jazz. The Original Nite Cap and its sister spent the evening on stage at a New restaurant, Pulcinella!, are co-owned Orleans music and burlesque venue. by burlesque performer Bella Blue, Ahead of opening for Bruno Mars last week, the “Where is my Husband!” who shared a photo with Raye after the show on Instagram. singer stopped by The Original Nite “Last night’s show was just one of Cap in the 7th Ward to perform along ‘those nights’ in New Orleans. You had with trumpeter Augie Haas, who she to be there and I’m so grateful I was,” has collaborated with live and in the

Raye performs on Jazz Fest’s Gentilly Stage. STAFF FILE PHOTO By MADDIE SPINNER

Blue said in her post. Raye previously performed on the ﬁrst day of the this year’s New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in April. Her most recent album “This Music

May Contain Hope” was released in March to critical acclaim. Email Marco Cartolano at marco. martolano@theadvocate.com.

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PHOTO BY SAM GREGORY

10 ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

music

Keith Spera SOUND CHECK

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If you haven’t seen much live local music lately, NOLAxNOLA is giving you 300 or so opportunities over the next two weeks. For the sixth consecutive fall, “Nola by Nola,” as it is pronounced (like South by Southwest), shines a spotlight on the local venues that sustain live music year-round; 50 are participat-

ing in the 2026 NOLAxNOLA concert series. Many of these shows, labeled “NOLAxNoCover,” are free. Others feature special pairings or themes, i.e. Irma Thomas’ two sold-out matinee shows at Preservation Hall on Saturday. New Orleans & Co. and the New Orleans Tourism and Cultural Foundation

A TRIBUTE TO MONK BOUDREAUX

CYRIL NEVILLE PLAYS THE DEAD

FRIDAY, JOY THEATER Cyril Neville is very much alive. The singer and percussionist who anchored The Meters and the Neville Brothers is still actively making music as his 78th birthday approaches in October. On his new album “Don’t Wait ‘Til I’m Gone” — available on CD or as a vinyl LP — he demonstrates that his voice and his passion are undiminished. The Neville Brothers enjoyed a long association with the Grateful Dead; the Dead occasionally covered Nevilles songs and performed with the Brothers. That affiliation remains active thanks to “Cyril Neville Plays the Dead,” which finds Cyril flipping the script to cover Grateful Dead songs. He’s been on tour recently with his son Omari Neville’s band, the Fuel. They return home to “Play The Dead” Friday at the Joy Theater ($33).

Cyril Neville

are again the series’ main sponsors and promoters. Special “NOLAxNOLA Curated” tickets, good for one preselected show per night, are available. Complete listings are on the New Orleans & Co. website, neworleans.com. Here are highlights of the week ahead.

Monk Boudreaux

BLACK AMERICANA FEST FRIDAY-SATURDAY,THE BROADSIDE As the name implies, the annual Black Americana Fest celebrates roots music and singer-songwriter fare made by Black musicians. The two-day event takes over the outdoor Broadside on North Broad Street on Friday evening with two stages and then expands to three stages all day Saturday. The Friday lineup includes Teena May, Sunpie & the Louisiana Sunspots, CRYS, Joy Clark and closer Tray Wellington, who will also lead a banjo workshop earlier in the afternoon. Saturday’s schedule features Robin Barnes & the Fiya Birds, the Lilli Lewis Project, Dusky Waters, Denitia, the Kentucky Gentlemen and the Seratones. A two-day general admission ticket good for Friday and Saturday is $45. Two-day student tickets are $20. Go to www.blackamericanafest.com for tickets and more details.

Email Keith Spera at kspera@theadvocate.com.

SATURDAY,TIPITINA’S If a Mount Rushmore of Mardi Gras Indians existed, Joseph “Monk” Boudreaux’s face would be on it. The longtime leader of the Golden Eagles tribe helped deﬁne Mardi Gras Indian funk with a pair of seminal Wild Magnolias albums in the 1970s alongside the late Bo Dollis Sr. Boudreaux represented the more traditional chants and rhythms inherent in the band’s sound. More recently, he has released acclaimed albums on his own, including 2021’s Grammy-nominated “Bloodstains and Teardrops.” On Saturday, Tipitina’s presents “All Hail the Big Chief!: A Tribute to Monk Boudreaux.” Hosted by singer-songwriter Paul Sanchez, the show features the Dirty Dozen Horns, Brian Stoltz, Papa Mali, Johnny Sansone, Joseph Boudreaux Jr., Jwan Boudreaux, Marwan Boudreaux, Bo Dollis Jr., the Golden Eagles Mardi Gras Indian Band and more. Tickets are $28.

Joy Clark

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music THE WALRUS: A NEW ORLEANS BEATLES EXPERIENCE

SUNDAY, NOLA BREWING The four veteran local musicians in The Walrus: A New Orleans Beatles Experience play Beatles songs but don’t copy them. They ﬁlter Beatles classics through their own musical sensibilities. Drummer/keyboardist Andre Bohren and bassist/vocalist David Pomerleau have spent a quarter-century in rock/jazz band Dirty Sketch & the Dirty Notes and collaborate in the classic cowboy trio the Desert Nudes. Lead guitarist Felix Wohlleben hails from a jazz background. Guitarist/vocalist Jonathan Pretus fronted alt-rock band The Breton Sound and spent some time in Cowboy Mouth. On “Elysian Fields Forever,” their new, debut album as The Walrus, they reinterpret “Help,” “I’ve Got a Feeling,” “Eleanor Rigby” and other classics. The band celebrates the new album with a free, all-ages show at 5 p.m. Sunday at NOLA Brewing, 3033 Tchoupitoulas St..

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The Walrus: A New Orleans Beatles Experience

OTHER NOTEWORTHY SHOWS 106.7 THE END REUNION

THURSDAY

SATURDAY, HOWLIN’WOLF In the late 1990s and early 2000s, KKND 106.7 “The End” was the home for alternative rock on the New Orleans airwaves. The station punched above its weight, helping break alt-rock bands nationally. Indicative of its popularity, the station presented a music festival in City Park called EndFest and hosted nightly live broadcasts from locations across the metropolitan area. Hurricane Katrina pulled the plug on The End, knocking it off the air. When 106.7 started broadcasting again several months later, ownership had rebranded the station and changed its format to a country/rock hybrid. The local DJs who had given The End so much of its personality were gone. One of those former KKND deejays, Sig Greenebaum, is a co-founder of NOLAxNOLA. On Saturday, Greenebaum and other pre-Katrina on-air personalities from 106.7 The End and other stations will reunite at the Howlin’ Wolf from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. The throwback hard rock band Supagroup and Carmine P. Filthy will perform. Admission for this “NOLAxNoCover” show is free.

At Tipitina’s, Mardi Gras Indian funk band The Rumble plays the music of Parliament-Funkadelic, augmented by drummer/singer Jamison Ross and keyboardist Ivan Neville. DJ Soul Sister is also on the bill. Tickets are $20 plus fees. Blues singer and harmonica player Bobby Rush was born in Homer in 1933. Now in his 90s, he’s still on the road and still making new music, including “Young Fashioned Ways,” his collaboration with fellow Louisianan Kenny Wayne Shepherd. Rush holds court at the New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market on Thursday; tickets start at $31.

FRIDAY As the keyboardist, singer and primary songwriter of the Radiators, Ed Volker has conjured hundreds of songs. He reunites with the Rads once or twice a year but keeps a number of side projects percolating. For his Zeko Perdido, he shares the stage with the Iguanas: guitarist Rod Hodges, drummer Doug Garrison, bassist Rene Coman and saxophonist Joe Cabral. They’ll perform at Chickie Wah Wah on Friday ($25). For two decades, the Honey Island Swamp Band has cranked out funky New Orleans swamp blues with plenty of swooping guitar solos, deep grooves and sturdy songwriting. The band Bobby celebrates its 20th anniversary Friday at Tipitina’s ($18). Rush Naughty Professor funks up the Maple Leaf Bar at 8 p.m. ($23). Blues-based guitarist/singer Chris Thomas King and his trio are at Snug Harbor at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. ($40). Big Sam’s Funky Nation hits the New Orleans Jazz & Blues Market; tickets start at $31. BRW sings classic Motown and R&B hits at Rock ‘n’ Bowl ($17). “Stones Fest 2026” at the Jefferson Performing

Honey Island Swamp Band Arts Center celebrates the music of The Rolling Stones. Tickets start at $50.

SATURDAY Pianist Tom McDermott plays a free happy hour show at 4:30 p.m. at Snug Harbor. Later Saturday, Snug Harbor presents modern jazz saxophonist and clarinetist Victor Goines at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. ($40). Johnny Sketch & the Dirty Notes unleash their madcap mix of rock and jazz at the Maple Leaf at 8 p.m. ($23).

SUNDAY Vocalist John Boutte is featured for a free, outdoor show at Bywater Bakery, 3624 Dauphine St., at 11 a.m. Percussionist Mike Dillon and the New Orleans Percussion Consortium celebrate the release of their new “Mike and Beignet Go To the Zoo” at the Broadside. Advance tickets are $25. Check out Built To Spill at Tipitina’s ($35).

TUESDAY Saxophonists Derek Douget, Ricardo Pascal and Trevarri HuffBoone, backed by drummer Jason Marsalis, bassist Jason Stewart and pianist Dwight Fitch, mark John Coltrane’s birthday with a tribute at Snug Harbor at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. ($35).

WEDNESDAY Brass/Mardi Gras Indian hybrid band Cha Wa, augmented by trumpeter James Andrews, hits Chickie Wah Wah with opener Firebrain ($25).

12 ✦ Thursday, September 24, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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PRESENTS

NOLA FUNK FEST FRIDAY OCTOBER 16

GALACTIC

FEATURING JELLY JOSEPH WITH SPECIAL GUESTS JOJO HERMANN AND DOMINGO "SUNNY" ORTIZ DUMPSTAPHUNK, MARC BROUSSARD, NEW ORLEANS SUSPECTS WITH BIG SAM JOURDAN THIBODEAUX ET LES RÔDAILLEURS, ROBERT MERCURIO & CRAIG KLEIN PRESENT FUNKSTICATION, BRASS A-HOLICS, NEW ORLEANS LEGACY COALITION , SOUL PROJECT, THE WASHINGTON TATTOO

SATURDAY OCTOBER 17

A TRIBUTE TO ALLEN TOUSSAINT

FEATURING THE ALLEN TOUSSAINT ORCHESTRA WITH SPECIAL GUESTS: IRMA THOMAS, IVAN NEVILLE, DAVELL CRAWFORD, CYRIL NEVILLE, DEACON JOHN, JOHN BOUTTÉ , NEAL FRANCIS, ANDERS OSBORNE, JOHN "PAPA" GROS, ELAINE FOSTER DAVID TORKANOWSKY, AND MORE! NEAL FRANCIS, LOST BAYOU RAMBLERS WITH THE LPO, TONY HALL BAND FEATURING MAHOGANY BLUE, JOJO HERMANN & FRIENDS, BONERAMA, CJ CHENIER & THE RED HOT LOUISIANA BAND, NEVILLE SONS, SLUGGER, THE QUICKENING

SUNDAY OCTOBER 18

GEORGE PORTER JR & RUNNIN’ PARDNERS SUPA’ SET WITH SPECIAL GUESTS STANTON MOORE, CYRIL NEVILLE, JEN HARTSWICK, EDDIE ROBERTS, MARK MULLINS, CRAIG KLEIN, JOJO HERMANN, DOMINGO ORTIZ, CHALI 2NA, JACKIE GREENE & MORE

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CIMA FUNK, ANDERS OSBORNE WITH JACKIE GREENE, THE BREAKS. ERICA FALLS WITH MARCUS MACHADO AND CHALI 2NA, RIVER ECKERT, CC ADCOCK & THE LAFAYETTE MARQUIS, BIG CHIEF JUAN PARDO'S TRIBAL GOLD, ORIGINAL PINETTES BRASS BAND, POCKET CHOCOLATE

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT NOLAFUNKFEST.COM