The Advocate 01-15-2026 by The Advocate

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T H E A D V O C AT E.C O M

BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA

T h u r s d ay, J a n u a ry 15, 2026

High natural gas bills draw complaints

BR residents attend tense town hall with Delta Utilities

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Landry headed to D.C. for Greenland talks

Governor’s invite to dogsledding event may be in peril BY MEGHAN FRIEDMANN Staff writer

STAFF PHOTOS By JAVIER GALLEGOS

Attendees pass each other Delta Utilities information handouts during a town hall meeting on Tuesday.

Gov. Jeff Landry is heading to Washington, D.C., for talks about President Donald Trump’s push to acquire Greenland, even as his invitation to the Arctic territory’s most prestigious dogsledding race may be in peril. Landry, Trump’s freshly tapped “special envoy” to Greenland, still plans to visit the country and has meetings ä Top Danish in Washington on Thursday official says and Friday, said Shane Guidry, ‘fundamental a businessman and close ally of the governor who said he disagreement’ went hunting with Landry on over Greenland remains with Wednesday morning. Kate Kelly, a spokesperson Trump. PAGE 3A for Landry, confirmed that he was headed to Washington to discuss Greenland and “state-specific issues.” The governor’s visit is set to take place one day after officials from Greenland and Denmark went to the White House to meet with Vice President

ä See LANDRY, page 7A

BY IANNE SALVOSA Staff writer

In a packed room at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center, East Baton Rouge Parish residents demanded answers from Delta Utilities representatives over high energy bills. At least 150 people showed up to a town hall Tuesday evening hosted by District 3 Public Service Commissioner Davante Lewis, with Baton Rouge Metro Council members Twahna P. Harris, Cleve Dunn Jr. and Carolyn Coleman to discuss complaints about bills. The event was marked by vocal discontent from attendees, who accused Delta Utilities of lying and raising rates for proﬁt throughout the event. Delta Utilities representatives said charges for natural gas service have remained the same, but the bills are presented differently. Patty Merrick, a resident and homeowners association president of the Concord Estates subdivision, said her bill has risen from $30 to $230 in the past two months. She regularly uses her water heater and furnace but said the lofty increase in her bill still doesn’t make sense. “That is ridiculous and uncalled for,” she said at the town hall. Merrick has attempted to call

Cassidy and Murrill oppose abortion pills by mail East Baton Rouge Parish Metro Council member Carolyn Coleman shouts into the mic to gather all the senior citizens in the next room over during Tuesday’s meeting. Delta customer service for assistance but said she has been met with no response. In some instances, she said she reached a representative on the other line, but they later hung up on her. And after hearing from Delta and local ofﬁcials Tuesday evening, she is not satisﬁed with their explanations. “It wasn’t large enough,” she said of the meeting. “There’s too much

chaos. There was not any monitoring. They let it get out of hand.” Attendees, many of whom were older adults, shouted questions and concerns to Lewis and the Delta representatives during the meeting, bringing up the charges they have paid in the past two months and their disagreement with the

ä See BILLS, page 4A

BY EMILY WOODRUFF and ALYSE PFEIL Staff writers

A U.S. Senate hearing Wednesday placed Louisiana at the center of a national debate over abortion pills, highlighting a clash between Republican state ofﬁcials seeking tighter restrictions and Democrats who say it is an effort to cut off one of the last remaining paths to abortion access for many women. Also on Wednesday, California Gov. Gavin Newsom denied Louisiana’s request to extradite a doctor who faces criminal charges in Louisiana for mailing abortion pills to a St. Tammany Parish woman. Both developments highlight how red states

ä See ABORTION, page 7A

Two charter schools opt for state oversight BY CHARLES LUSSIER Staff writer

Taking advantage of a new state law, private groups running two charter schools in Baton Rouge have successfully jumped ship, landing more attractive operating deals with the state of Louisiana. In the process, they are leaving behind short-term agreements struck previously with the East Baton Rouge Parish school system. “We made this decision with our families’ best interests at heart,” said Steve Corbett, CEO of New Orleansbased Audubon Schools. Audubon and Colorado-based Third Future Schools began operating their

WEATHER HIGH 64 LOW 33 PAGE 8A

respective Baton Rouge schools in July. They took over large F-rated schools that were opened and operated for the seven previous years by Texasbased IDEA Public Schools. They have renamed them Audubon Baton Rouge and Bridge Academy. Starting this summer, both charter organizations will have a new boss: the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, or BESE. On Wednesday, without discussion, BESE voted unanimously to grant Type 2 charters to Audubon Baton Rouge and Bridge Academy, which allows them to enroll students across Louisiana. Heretofore, both schools operated under Type 1 charters that allowed them to enroll only students who

lived within the boundaries of the East Baton Rouge Parish school district. Charter schools are public schools run privately via charters, or contracts. As a general rule, Louisiana charter schools can’t start operating without ﬁrst applying for a Type 1 charter with the local school board. Last year, however, the Legislature added an exception. A charter organization can now bypass the local school board and apply directly to BESE if it enlists a “corporate partner.” That is just what Audubon Schools and Third Future Schools have done. They are the ﬁrst charter applicants

STAFF PHOTO By HILARy SCHEINUK

Third Future Schools hopes to purchase the former IDEA ä See CHARTER, page 4A Public Schools Bridge campus at 1500 North Airway Drive.

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

101ST yEAR, NO. 199

2A ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

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FROM WIRE REPORTS

Administration restores mental health grants

WASHINGTON — A day after the Department of Health and Human Services implemented a late-night rollback of $2 billion in mental health and substance use funding, an administration official confirmed late Wednesday that the grants are now being restored. The cancellation of Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration funding had blindsided grantees and sent shock waves through organizations that provide anti-drug and mental health services. About 2,000 grantees who rely on these funds to operate were informed by form letters Tuesday that funding was being cut off, according to sources familiar with discussions. They were notified of the funding changes in letters that cite “non-alignment with SAMHSA priorities.” “My understanding is that there has been an intervention at the White House,” Senate Labor-HHS-Education Appropriations ranking member Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis. “It might be a one-day issue.” An official who wasn’t authorized to speak on the matter said the grant cancellations “are being rescinded.” SAMHSA, the agency tasked with mental health and addiction issues, has faced sweeping changes under the second Trump administration. Many organizations that receive funding modified their missions to comply. Kathryn Cates-Wessel, CEO of the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry, is the principal investigator for two national SAMHSA grants that had been targeted for the cuts. She said the organization removed all language in their materials related to harm reduction or underrepresented or minority groups to comply with executive orders and communicated that to the agency.

Supreme Court revives challenge to ballot law WASHINGTON — The Supreme Court on Wednesday revived a Republican challenge to a law that allows the counting of latearriving mail ballots. The high court majority ruled that candidates can sue over voting-counting rules, even if they haven’t shown a clear effect on the outcome of the race. “Win or lose, candidates suffer when the process departs from the law,” Chief Justice John Roberts wrote. The court didn’t rule on late-arriving mail-in ballots themselves, but will hear another case on the broader issue this spring. Requiring candidates to show that a rule could affect the outcome before challenging its legality risks court entanglement in elections during late stages of the process, Roberts wrote. The court ruled 7-2 to grant Rep. Mike Bost, R-Ill., and two other candidates a new day in court, though it didn’t decide their underlying claim. Bost appealed after lower courts tossed out his suit, ruling he lacked legal standing because any ballots that arrived after election day had little impact on his lopsided win. Fourteen states and the District of Columbia accept mailed ballots received after Election Day as long they are postmarked on or before that date, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Florida deputy captures, returns runaway emu ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — A Florida deputy has captured a runaway emu and safely returned the large flightless bird to its home. A St. Johns County deputy responded last Friday to a rural area west of St. Augustine following reports of the bird’s escape, the sheriff’s office said in a Facebook post. The deputy attempted to secure the emu, but the bird kicked several times using its large talons and fled, authorities said. After a short chase, the deputy cornered the emu, secured it with a makeshift lasso and handcuffed its legs together to render the talons useless. The emu was returned to its owners unharmed. No charges were filed.

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D.C. reporter’s home searched

Bondi says action was taken at Pentagon’s request BY ALANNA DURKIN RICHER and ERIC TUCKER Associated Press

WASHINGTON — FBI agents searched a Washington Post reporter’s home on Wednesday as part of a leak investigation into a Pentagon contractor accused of taking home classified information, the Justice Department said. Hannah Natanson, who has been covering President Donald Trump’s transformation of the federal government, had a phone, two laptops and a Garmin watch seized in the search of her Virginia home, the Post reported. Natanson has reported extensively on the federal workforce and recently published a piece describing how she gained hundreds of new sources — leading one colleague to call her “the

federal government whisperer.” While classified documents investigations aren’t unusual, the search of a reporter’s home marks an escalation in the government’s efforts to crack down on leaks. The Post was told that Natanson and the newspaper are not targets of the probe, executive editor Matt Murray said in an email to colleagues. “Nonetheless, this extraordinary, aggressive action is deeply concerning and raises profound questions and concern around the constitutional protections for our work,” Murray wrote. “The Washington Post has a long history of zealous support for robust press freedoms. The entire institution stands by those freedoms and our work.” Attorney General Pam Bondi said that the search was done at

the request of the Defense Department and that the journalist was “obtaining and reporting classified and illegally leaked information from a Pentagon contractor.” “Leaking classified information puts America’s national security and the safety of our military heroes in serious jeopardy,” White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a post on X. “President Trump has zero tolerance for it and will continue to aggressively crack down on these illegal acts moving forward.” The warrant says the search was related to an investigation into a system engineer and information technology specialist for a government contractor in Maryland who authorities allege took home classified materials, the Post reported. The worker, Aurelio Perez-

Lugones, was charged earlier this month with unlawful retention of national defense information, according to court papers. He has not been charged with sharing classiﬁed information, and he has not been accused in court papers with leaking. Perez-Lugones, who held a top secret security clearance, is accused of printing classified and sensitive reports at work. In a search of his Maryland home and car this month, authorities found documents marked “SECRET,” including one in a lunchbox, according to court papers. An FBI spokesperson declined to comment on Wednesday. The Washington Post said Wednesday that it was monitoring and reviewing the situation. An email seeking comment was sent to lawyers for Perez-Lugones, who is expected to appear in court on Thursday for a detention hearing.

U.S. apologizes for deporting student BY MICHAEL CASEY Associated Press

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By DAN BASHAKOV

A woman gets warm with a hot cup of tea at an emergency center set up to support people during power outages caused by Russia’s regular air attacks on the country’s energy infrastructure Wednesday in Boryspil, Ukraine.

Ukrainians endure freezing temperatures Emergency repair crews working to restore power

BY VASILISA STEPANENKO Associated Press

BORYSPIL, Ukraine — Emergency repair crews are working flat out to restore power in the Kyiv region of Ukraine, ofﬁcials said Wednesday, after relentless Russian barrages on energy infrastructure left Ukrainians at the mercy of the coldest winter in years. At Boryspil, a town in the Kyiv region with a population of around 60,000, workers dismantled and rebuilt burned-out electrical systems as they rushed to ﬁx the damage. They work in the snow amid temperatures of 13 degrees F from early morning till midnight, Yurii Bryzh, who leads the Boryspil regional department of private electricity provider DTEK, told The Associated Press. They have managed to restore the supply for four hours a day. But Bryzh said the problem was “when the power comes back on, people turn on all the electrical equipment that is available in the house” as they dash to wash, cook or recharge their phones. That collapses the system again, he said. The hardship of civilians is acute amid what Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko described as the longest and broadest outages since Russia’s full-scale invasion of its neighbor almost four years ago. Apartments in the capital are freezing, and when venturing outside people wear heavy layers of clothes against the bitter cold that chills to the bone. Across Kyiv, snow covers the ground and roofs and is piled up next to sidewalks. At night, the

streets are dark and towering apartment blocks show no light in the windows. A married couple, scientists Mykhailo, 39, and Hanna, 43, said the temperature in the bedroom of their 5-year-old daughter Maria has fallen to 13 degrees. They gave only their ﬁrst names for security reasons. They have a gas stove to cook but at night they huddle together in the same bed under heavy blankets. “We have to use all the blankets we have in the house,” Hanna said. The couple take their daughter to work with them during the day, because the premises have a generator whereas Maria’s kindergarten has no heating. Zinaida Hlyha, 76, said she heats water on her gas stove and puts it in bottles that she tucks into bed. She says she doesn’t complain because Ukrainian soldiers on the roughly 600-mile front line have it worse. “Of course it’s hard, but if you imagine what our guys in the trenches are going through now, you have to endure,” she said. “What can you do? This is war.” Raisa Derhachova, an 89-year-old physicist lives alone and sometimes plays the piano in what she calls “this terrifying cold.” “Of course, it’s hard to survive this. We survived World War II, and now this terrible war is upon us,” she said. Russian barrages are aiming at power plants and large substations, and procuring replacement equipment such as transformers can take months, according to Dennis Sakva, an energy sector analyst at Dragon Capital, a Ukrainian investment company. “There are two types of heroes in Ukraine,” he said. “They are the military and energy workers.”

Japan’s PM plans to dissolve Parliament BY MARI YAMAGUCHI

Associated Press

TOKYO — Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi plans to dissolve the lower house of Parliament soon to set up for a snap election to seek the public’s mandate for her policies, a top party ofﬁcial said Wednesday. Takaichi was elected in Parliament as Japan’s ﬁrst female prime minister in October. A snap election is seen as an attempt to capitalize on her approval ratings of around 70% to help her beleaguered governing party gain more seats. Shunichi Suzuki, secretary general of the Liberal Democratic Party, told reporters Takaichi told him and other top

officials she planned to dissolve the lower house “soon” after it convenes on Jan. 23. Her scandal-tainted LDP and its coalition have a slim majority in the lower house, the more powerful of Japan’s twochamber Parliament. Opposition lawmakers criticized the plan as a selfish move that would delay parliamentary discussion on the budget, which needs to be approved as soon as possible. Takaichi wants to seek the public’s mandate for her policies including “proactive” fiscal spending and plans to further accelerate the ongoing military buildup under the coalition with a new partner, the Japan Innovation Party, Suzuki said.

BOSTON — The Trump administration apologized in court for a “mistake” in the deportation of a Massachusetts college student who was detained trying to ﬂy home to surprise her family for Thanksgiving, but still argued the error should not affect her case. Any Lucia Lopez Belloza, a 19-year-old Babson College freshman, was detained at Boston’s airport on Nov. 20 and flown to Honduras two days later. Her removal came despite an emergency court order on Nov. 21 directing the government to keep her in Massachusetts or elsewhere in the United States for at least 72 hours. Lopez Belloza, whose family emigrated from Honduras to the U.S. in 2014, is currently staying with grandparents and studying remotely. She is not detained and was recently visiting an aunt in El Salvador. At a federal court hearing Tuesday in Boston, the government argued the court lacks jurisdiction because lawyers for Lopez Belloza filed their

action several hours after she arrived in Texas while en route out of the country. But the government also acknowledged it violated the judge’s order. In court filings and in open court, government lawyers said an Immigration and Customs Enforcement deportation officer mistakenly believed the order no longer applied because Lopez Belloza had already left Massachusetts. The ofﬁcer failed to activate a system that alerts other ICE officers that a case is subject to judicial review and that removal should be halted. “On behalf of the government, we want to sincerely apologize,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Sauter told the judge, saying the employee understands “he made a mistake.” The violation, Sauter added, was “an inadvertent mistake by one individual, not a willful act of violating a court order.” The government maintains her deportation was lawful because an immigration judge ordered the removal of Lopez Belloza and her mother in 2016, and the Board of Immigration Appeals dismissed their appeal in 2017.

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‘Fundamental disagreement’ over Greenland Danish official says Trump has ‘wish’ of ‘conquering’ island

BY EMMA BURROWS, CLAUDIA CIOBANU and BEN FINLEY Associated Press

WASHINGTON — A top Danish ofﬁcial said Wednesday that a “fundamental disagreement” over Greenland remains with President Donald Trump after holding highly anticipated White House talks with Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The two sides, however, agreed to create a working group to discuss ways to work through differences as Trump continues to call for a U.S. takeover of the semiautonomous territory of NATO ally Denmark. “The group, in our view, should focus on how to address the American security concerns, while at the same time respecting the red lines of the Kingdom of Denmark,” Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen told reporters after joining Greenland’s foreign minister, Vivian Motzfeldt, for the talks. He added that it remains “clear that the president has this wish of conquering over Greenland.” Trump is trying to make the case that NATO should help the U.S. acquire the world’s largest island and says anything less than it being under American control is unacceptable. Denmark, meanwhile, announced plans to boost the country’s military presence in the Arctic and North Atlantic as Trump tries to justify

that Greenland needs to be controlled by the U.S. for the sake maintaining a security edge in Arctic over China and Russia. Instead, Martinsen said, Trump is after the plentiful “oils and minerals that we have that are untouched.” Greenland “has beautiful nature and lovely people,” Martinsen added. “It’s just home to me. I think the Americans just see some kind of business trade.” Greenlanders to U.S.: Back off Denmark has said the U.S., which Greenland is strategically im- already has a military presence, portant because, as climate change can boost its bases on Greenland. causes the ice to melt, it opens up The U.S. is party to a 1951 treaty the possibility of shorter trade that gives it broad rights to set up military bases there with the conroutes to Asia. That also could make it easier sent of Denmark and Greenland. to extract and transport untapped deposits of critical minerals which Bipartisan concern in Senate are needed for computers and Løkke Rasmussen and Motzfeldt phones. also met with a bipartisan group Trump says Greenland is also senators from the Arctic Caucus. “vital” to the United States’ Gold- The senators said they were conen Dome missile defense program. cerned Trump’s push to acquire He also has said Russia and China Greenland could upend NATO pose a threat in the region. and play into the hands of Russian But experts and Greenlanders President Vladimir Putin. question that claim, and it has Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowsbecome a hot topic on the snow- ki of Alaska, who has introduced covered main street in Green- legislation to try to block any U.S. land’s capital, where international action in Greenland, said it was journalists and camera crews have “stunning” to her that they were descended as Trump continues his even discussing the matter. “We are operating in times where we takeover talk. In interviews, Greenlanders are having conversations about said the outcome of the Washing- things that we never even thought ton talks didn’t exactly evince possible,” Murkowski said. Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, said it conﬁdence that Trump can be peris “nonsense” to say that the U.S. suaded. “Trump is unpredictable,” said needs to control Greenland to proGeng Lastein, who immigrated to tect national security. The ofﬁcials Greenland 18 years ago from the were “very open to additional naPhilippines. tional security assets in Greenland Maya Martinsen, 21, said she in order to meet whatever risks doesn’t buy Trump’s arguments there are.”

cooperation with our allies,” a necessity in a security environment in which “no one can predict what will happen tomorrow.” Several of the country’s allies, including Germany, France, Norway and Sweden, announced they were arriving in Greenland along with Danish personnel to take part in joint exercises or map out further military cooperation in the Arctic.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JOHN McDONNELL

Denmark’s Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen and Greenland’s Foreign Minister Vivian Motzfeldt speak Wednesday at a news conference at the Danish Embassy in Washington. his calls for a U.S. takeover of the vast territory by repeatedly claiming that China and Russia have their designs on Greenland, which holds vast untapped reserves of critical minerals. The president, who did not take part in Wednesday’s meeting, told reporters he remained committed to acquiring the territory. “We need Greenland for national security,” Trump said. “We’ll see how it all works out. I think something will work out.” Before the meeting, Trump took to social media to make the case that “NATO should be leading the way” for the U.S. to acquire the territory. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has sought to keep an armslength away from the dispute be-

tween the most important power and the other members of the 32-country alliance unnerved by the aggressive tack Trump has taken toward Denmark. Both Løkke Rasmussen and Motzfeldt offered measured hope that the talks were beginning a conversation that would lead to Trump dropping his demand and create a path for tighter cooperation with the U.S. “We have shown where our limits are and from there, I think that it will be very good to look forward,” Motzfeldt said.

Denmark bolstering presence In Copenhagen, Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen announced a stepped-up military presence in the Arctic “in close

U.S. will suspend immigrant visa processing from 75 countries

BY MATTHEW LEE

AP diplomatic writer

WASHINGTON — The State Department said Wednesday it will suspend the processing of immigrant visas for citizens of 75 countries. The State Department, led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, said it had instructed consular ofﬁcers to halt immigrant visa applications from the countries af-

fected in accordance with a broader order issued in November that tightened rules around potential immigrants who might become “public charges” in the U.S. The suspension, which will begin Jan. 21, will not apply to applicants seeking nonimmigrant visas, or temporary tourist or business visas, who make up the vast majority of visa seekers. Demand for nonimmigrant visas is

expected to rise due to the upcoming 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics. “The Trump administration is bringing an end to the abuse of America’s immigration system by those who would extract wealth from the American people,” the department said in a statement. “Immigrant visa processing from these 75 countries will be paused while the State Department reassess immigra-

tion processing procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who would take welfare and public beneﬁts.” The November guidance on which Wednesday’s decision is based directed U.S. Embassy and consulate officials to comprehensively and thoroughly vet visa applicants to demonstrate that they will not need to rely on public beneﬁts from the government any time after their

admission in the U.S. Immigrants seeking entry into the U.S. already undergo a medical exam by a physician who’s been approved by a U.S. Embassy. They are screened for communicable diseases and asked to disclose any history of drug or alcohol use, mental health conditions or violence. They’re also required to have a number of vaccinations. The new directive expand-

ed those with more specific requirements. It said consular officials must consider a range of specific details about people seeking visas, including their age, health, family status, finances, education, skills and any past use of public assistance regardless of the country. It also said they should assess applicants’ English proficiency and can do so by conducting interviews in English.

LA-23-14796

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FederalEstate EstateTax Tax– –Did DidYou YouKnow? Know? Federal

Thefederal federalestate estatetax taxapplies appliestotoestates estates people who residents in any of 50 Laura C. Poché The of of people who areare residents in any of the the 50 states. When it applies, it is significant. Essentially, when a person dies, Author & Estate Planning states. When it applies, it is significant. Essentially, when a person dies, we have to we have addmarket up thevalue fair of market value the of everything the deceased owned – & Administration Attorney add up thetofair everything deceased owned –their house, cars, their accounts, house, cars, accounts, IRA’s, stock,businesses 401(k)’s, life insurance, stock, bank IRA’s,bank 401(k)’s, life insurance, they own, real esbusinesses they own, real estate and more. Since 2013, new federal estate tax ACT NOW TO PUT YOUR PLAN IN PLACE IN tate and more. Effective January 1, 2026, the federal estate tax exemption amount were passed. The exemption amount $13,610,000 for for deaths occurring in JUST 6-7 WEEKS islaws $15,000,000 per person ($30,000,000 forismarried couples) deaths occurring 2024, and the estate tax rate is 40%. Yes, knowledge is power, and the choice is yours. But you MUST ACT NOW to put in 2026. The estate tax rate remains at 40%.

What About AboutThe TheSurviving SurvivingSpouse? Spouse? What Before exemption. IfIf the theestate estateofofthe thefirst first Before 2010, 2010,each each spouse spouse had had an estate tax exemption. spouse their exemption, exemption, itit would would be be lost lost and andthe thesurviving surviving spouse to to die did not use their theexemption exemptionofof first spouse to die. However spouse not use useany anyofofthe spouse could not thethe first spouse to die. However in in 2013, “portability”was waskept keptininplace place––the thesurviving survivingspouse spousecan cannow nowincrease increase 2013, “portability” their amount of of the theunused unusedexemption exemptionamount amountofofthe thedeceased deceased their exemption by the amount spouse who died after 2010. But portability must be exercised timely. spouse who died after 2010. But portability must be exercised timely.

How To Avoid Capital Gains Tax How To Avoid Capital Gains Tax

The people is is capital capital gains gains tax. tax.Capital Capitalgains gainsis Thetax taxthat that often often creeps creepsup up on on people people people paid when you sell an asset that has appreciated in value. Example: you buy a stock is paid when you sell an asset that has appreciated in value. Example: you buy for $20,000 and laterand selllater the sell stock $100,000. You willYou havewill $80,000 of capital a stock for $20,000 thefor stock for $100,000. have $80,000 gain, and you must pay tax on this. How you structure your bequests to your of capital gain, and you must pay tax on this. How you structure your bequests spouse and your family can have a significant impact on how much capital gains to your spouse and your family can have a significant impact on how much tax your heirs will have to pay. When you die, your assets will be “stepped-up” and capital gains tax your heirs will have to pay. When you die, your assets will be your heirs will get a new value. “stepped-up” and your heirs will get a new value. Gifts of $20,000 Per Year Per Person (Used To Be $10,000 Per Year Per Person) Gifts of have $18,000 Per Year Person (Used To Beeach $10,000 Per without Person) You may heard you can Per donate or give $20,000 yearPer perYear person Youtax may have heard you can donate or give each yearregardless per personofwithout pays$18,000 gift tax on a gift the valgift consequences. Typically, no one gift tax consequences. Typically, no one pays income tax on a gift regardless of ue of the gift. A sizeable gift will have estate and gift tax consequences. the value of the gift. A sizeable gift will have estate and gift tax consequences.

YOU ARE INVITED TO A FREE Workshop To Learn How To: YOU ARE INVITED TO A FREE Workshop To Learn How To:

•• Minimize Minimize or or avoid avoiddeath death tax; tax; •• Make sure your estate Make sure your estateutilizes utilizesthe theexemption exemptionavailable availablefor fordeaths deathsoccurring occurringinin 2026; 2024; •• Properly Properly setup setup your your Will Willor orLiving LivingTrust Trustsosothere therewill willbebeno notax taxupon uponthe thedeath death of ofthe the first firstspouse spouseregardless regardlessofofthe thesize sizeofofthe theestate; estate; •• Ensure Ensure that that your your heirs heirs receive receiveaastep-up step-upin intax taxbasis basis––not notjust justwhen whenthe thefirst first spouse dies but again when the surviving spouse dies; spouse dies but again when the surviving spouse dies; •• Utilize 2026 Utilize the the 2026 2024annual annual gift gift tax tax exclusion exclusionto tomake makegifts giftsof of$20,000 $18,000per peryear yearper per person taxable estate at your death…and person during during your yourlifetime lifetimetotoreduce reduceyour your taxable estate at your death…and MUCH MUCH MORE! MORE!

your estate plan in place. It all starts by attending one of Laura Poche’s free educational events which makes it clear that regardless of your net worth, if you want to preserve your hard-earned assets or have people in your life you need to protect or have causes that you want to promote, EVERY PERSON NEEDS A LEGAL ESTATE PLAN. Let Laura Poche and her professional and knowledgeable staff make this process as easy as possible so you can live with PEACE OF MIND.

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BatonBaton RougeRouge Baton Rouge BatonBaton RougeRouge Wednesday, January 28 Thursday, January 29 1 Tuesday, January 30 Wednesday, January 31 Thursday, February Poche Law Office Poche Law Office Poche Law Office Poche Law Office Poche Law Office 4960 Bluebonnet, C Bluebonnet, Ste. 4960 Ste. CSte. C 4960 Bluebonnet, Ste. C Ste. 4960 C Bluebonnet, 4960 Bluebonnet, 5:30pm 8:00pm 9:30am 12:00pm 5:30pm – 8:00pm 9:00am – 11:30am 11:00am – 1:30pm Dinner Provided Lunch Lunch Provided AfterAfter Dinner Provided After After Lunch Provided After Provided IMPORTANT GUIDELINES FOR OUR WORKSHOPS: All of our learning workshops employ strict social distancing standards for everyone’s safety. Workshops are open to FIRST-TIME ATTENDEES ONLY and are geared towards people who want or need your legal estate plan in place quickly. (*) Please have your personal calendar handy at the workshop so you can choose to start your plan NOW! If married, both spouses must attend a workshop to ensure that all decision-makers are involved in your family’s coordinated plan. All people who attend will receive a FREE copy of the updated 2nd edition of Laura Poche’s Book, “Estate Planning Advice by a Woman for Louisiana Women: A Guide for Both Men and Women About Wills, Trusts, Probate, Powers of Attorney, Medicaid, Living Wills and Taxes.” * Non-Louisiana residents may attend for a nominal fee.

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BILLS

Continued from page 1A explanation that the high bills are due to weather and natural gas price fluctuations. “Senior citizens cannot afford to have increases in their bills,” Merrick said. “They don’t have anybody’s help.” The complaints of bills spiking come several months after Delta Utilities’ purchase of Entergy’s natural gas business in July for $484 million, acquiring 96,000 Baton Rouge customers and making it the leading natural gas utility in Louisiana and Mississippi. Lewis said the commission oversaw the acquisition and required that Delta maintain Entergy’s rates for three years after the purchase. The Louisiana Public Service Commission is a regulatory body that oversees public utilities in the state. Lewis’ district covers most of East Baton Rouge Parish and surrounding areas, and he said the town hall will be first of many for residents to meet with local and Delta representatives. Delta is based in New Orleans, where it has 109,000 customers, and is backed by Bernhard Capital Partners. “One of the challenges of this process is we were so focused on the initial acquisition and telling people that they will see nothing different that we kind of failed to talk about what you actually see with the gas utility,” Lewis said in an interview before the meeting. Delta charges customers the same price it pays for natural gas, according to the company’s website. The price of natural gas is represented in the purchase gas adjustment on the bill, which fluctuates on a monthly basis. Lewis said the month-to-month adjustments keep rates close to the market and shield customers from larger, annual adjustments. “Nothing Delta has done nefarious, but more along the lines of a new system is here, and we are now going through the growing pains of understanding the system,” Lewis said. Delta’s utilities bills are comprised of a customer charge; a fixed monthly cost; a gas charge, based on usage in a given month; city taxes; an annual pipeline inspection fee, and an annual re-

CHARTER

Continued from page 1A to take advantage of the new law. And both are turning to the same corporate partner: New Schools for Baton Rouge. BESE’s approval gives these schools ﬁve-year operating agreements, meaning they can continue operation until 2031. If they had tried to stay with East Baton Rouge, and been rejected, they would have had to close up shop in May. Audubon Baton Rouge, not the same as Audubon Elementary on Goodwood Boulevard, is the charter network’s third school and ﬁrst outside of New Orleans. For Third Future, Bridge Academy is its second school in Baton Rouge — it opened Prescott Academy in 2023 — and fourth in Louisiana. Corbett said Audubon considered a variety of options before settling on seeking a Type 2 charter. “We knew that pursuing a Type 2 charter would allow us to receive a decision more quickly, giving our families the clarity they deserve about their children’s educational future,” Corbett said. East Baton Rouge Parish Superintendent LaMont Cole said timing was a key issue, specifically the concern the schools might be forced to close for a year before they could restart operations. “They were open to a Type 1, but if they were denied, the earliest BESE vote would have been August,” Cole said. On Oct. 1, the state’s last official enrollment count, Audubon Baton Rouge and Bridge Academy had 203 and 548 students, respectively. Both are substantially smaller than the schools they replaced. The year before their predecessors, IDEA Innovation and IDEA Bridge, enrolled 798 and 1,122 students, respectively. That is 1,168 fewer students in those two buildings. The enrollment decline is

STAFF PHOTOS By JAVIER GALLEGOS

Attendees look at Delta Utilities information handouts and their own utility bills during a town hall meeting on Tuesday.

Jim Dicharry, Delta Utilities director of regulatory and government affairs, gives a presentation during Tuesday’s town hall meeting. search and development fee. Jim Dicharry, who handles regulatory and government affairs for Delta Utilities, presented a breakdown of how gas bills are com-

partially by design. The two IDEA schools educated students from kindergarten to 12th grade. Audubon Baton Rouge, however, currently serves only K-5, and Bridge Academy serves only K-8. Even so, both schools lost students. Kindergarten enrollment this year is down 20 students at Audubon Baton Rouge and 34 students at Bridge Academy. Both schools, however, have growth plans outlined in their new charters. Audubon plans to enroll about 850 students by 2029, adding middle school grades over the next four years. Bridge Academy plans to stick with grades K-8, but add students, bringing it to 1,000 students. State law allows the two charter schools to educate even more students, 1,020 and 1,200, respectively. Formed in 2011, New Schools for Baton Rouge is a nonproﬁt corporation that is well-known in local education circles as an incubator for new charter schools in the Capital City. New Schools has now added “corporate sponsor” to its roster of services. Noemi Donoso, CEO of New Schools, said it agreed to sponsor the two schools at their request. “We were impressed by their commitment to stabilizing their campuses for students and families,” Donoso said. As part of its sponsorship, the nonproﬁt has given Audubon and Third Future millions of dollars each to help them gain greater control of the school facilities they took over from IDEA. Corporate partners can de-

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puted. Customer charges have remained the same since the acquisition, he said, but some charges that previously were combined with others, such as an advanced me-

mand up to 50% of the seats of the schools they support. Two other charter schools in Baton Rouge already have corporate partners. In Audubon’s case, New Schools gave it $5 million to pay for a “purchase and lease arrangement” with a Maryland-based nonprofit charter school facility company called 22Beacon. On Sept. 26, 22Beacon bought the 7800 Innovation Park Drive school, formerly IDEA Innovation, for $12.5 million. And then it immediately entered into a 15-year lease with Audubon Schools. In Third Future’s case, New Schools granted Third Future $5.6 million in July so that a company afﬁliated with the charter, BR Bridge School Properties, can “purchase and lease” the 1500 North Airway Drive campus, formerly IDEA Bridge Academy. In early December, BR Bridge purchased the 14-acre property in an $18.8 million cash sale. And then it immediately entered into a five-year lease with Third Future with options to renew or extend. Email Charles Lussier at clussier@theadvocate. com.

Heritage Manor of Baton Rouge II is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. We are committed to the principal of equal employmentopportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status.

tering surcharge, are now broken out into their own line on the bill. Dicharry said weather and natural gas prices inﬂuence what customers see on their bills, and that the use of appliances like water heaters and dryers can drive up charges. In the most recent bill, gas cost about 65 cents per unit. When explaining that Delta Utilities does not make a proﬁt on rising natural gas prices, attendees stirred, yelling “liar” at Dicharry. “There are no new fees that Delta has now,” Dicharry said at the meeting. “They previously may have been lumped together at Entergy, but we’ve since broken them out, trying to be transparent with you all.” Delta customer service set up a table at the community center before the meeting for residents to sit down and walk through their bills and potential payment arrangements. “We will stay here as long as you are willing to stay, to work with

you to help you understand your individual bills,” Sarah McLaughlin Porteous, vice president of communications of Delta Utilities, said at the town hall. Porteous said residents can sign up for levelized billing, which spreads gas costs throughout the year, payment arrangements and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, a federally funded initiative to manage utility costs. Within the next month, Delta will roll out its DU Cares program in partnership with United Way of Southeast Louisiana, which will offer utility assistance for qualifying families. She advised attendees to lower their water heater temperature and to close windows and doors to prevent heat loss, ultimately to prevent a higher gas bill. “There are a lot of things that we can do just to help with managing our energy costs that are very easy and don’t require a lot, simple things like lowering your thermostat,” she said.

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A Christmas Campaign Benefiting the Neediest Elementary School Children in our Community Since 1914

• An all-volunteer group that shares the gift of Christmas joy with the neediest children in East Baton Rouge Schools • Guidance counselors in participating elementary schools evaluate every child’s family application • Each eligible child receives clothing, an age appropriate toy and a book • Through the generous support of the good people of Greater Baton Rouge, more than 1,000 needy kids were given the gift of Christmas joy last year. • Unfortunately, more than 3,000 additional children are estimated to remain in need. • For 111 years, The Advocate has supported the Good Fellows & Good Samaritans Christmas campaign. Thirty one years ago The Sunrise Rotary Club of Baton Rouge became the hands-on partner in this annual effort to share the gift of Christmas joy!

To donate, mail check to:

Good Fellows PO Box 1482 Baton Rouge, LA 70898

or Scan QR code to give via PayPal

https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=2A3FHQLMC3F96

Donations made by: Mrs. Sara Abercrombie Mr. Stewart Abercrombie Mr. and Mrs. Brad Anderson Mr. and Mrs. Cornel Arceneaux Mr. and Mrs. Keith Arceneaux Mr. and Mrs. Frank Ardoin Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Ardoin Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Argrave III Mr. and Mrs. James Ayo Jr. Mrs. Judy Babin Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bankston Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Barker Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Barr Mr. Michael Barrett Mr. Steven Beachum Mr. and Mrs. James Beachum Jr. Mrs. Frances Billeaud Mr. and Mrs. F. Wayne Binning Mr. Stephen Binning Mrs. Betty Blaize Mr. and Mrs. Charles Blaize Jr. Mrs. Nicole Blanco George Dr. and Mrs. David Blythe Jr. Mrs. Janet Boudreaux Mrs. Annie Bourgeois Ms. Shelley Bourgeois Mr. and Mrs. Tyra Bourgeois Mrs. Sharon Bourque Mr. and Mrs. Elroy Brazile Mr. and Mrs. Ricky Breaux Pastor and Mrs. Troy Brigalia Mr. and Mrs. Chase Brignac Mr. and Mrs. Michael Brignac Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Bryan Jr. Mr. David Burge Mr. and Mrs. Mark Burns Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Calongne Mr. and Mrs. Roger Carlin Mrs. Monica Case Mr. and Mrs. Robert Chandler Mr. and Mrs. David Chaplin II Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Chaplin Mrs. Marylyn Clemens Mr. and Mrs. Paul Clouatre II Mrs. Patricia Cole Mr. and Mrs. William Collett Mrs. Charlotte Connor Mr. and Mrs. Michael Coon Mrs. Terese Crifasi Mr. William Cummings Jr. Mr. D. Chris Davis Jr. Mrs. Holly Davis Mr. and Mrs. Troy Davis Mr. and Mrs. Travis Day Mr. and Mrs. W. Donald Dinning Mr. Nathan Dixon Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Dobrowolski III Dr. and Mrs. David Dragon Mr. and Mrs. Gary Dunn Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Edwards Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Efferson Mrs. Randi Ellis Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Ellis Mr. and Mrs. Mark Emonet Mr. and Mrs. James Englade Mr. and Mrs. Brad Euggino Ms. Patricia Favaron Mr. John Ferguson Mr. and Mrs. Robert Finley Mr. and Mrs. Lucas Firmin Mr. Stephen Fisher Mr. and Mrs. Jeffry Foil Mr. Jack Foil Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Folse Mr. and Mrs. Todd Folse Ms. Michelle Folse Mrs. Carolyn Forbes Mr. and Mrs. John Ford Mr. Brandon Frederick Mr. and Mrs. Joey Gammill

Ms. Bonnie Gaudin Mr. and Mrs. Donald Gauthreaux Mr. and Mrs. Louis Generes IV Mr. and Mrs. Warren George Mr. and Mrs. Hossein Ghara Mrs. Patricia Giamanco Mr. Glynn Gillespie Mr. and Mrs. John Gipson Mr. and Mrs. Brian Glover Mrs. Elizeh Gomez Mr. Joshua Gomez Mr. and Mrs. Frank Greely III Mrs. Phyllis Gremillion Mr. and Mrs. Howard Gros III Mr. and Mrs. J. Gene Guerin Mr. and Mrs. Cayle Guillory Mr. and Mrs. Michael Guillory Mrs. Jessica Hall Mrs. Joy Hammett Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Hand Mr. Bradley Harris Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Hartley Mr. and Mrs. Todd Hayden Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hayes Mr. and Mrs. Russell Hayes Mrs. Anne Hebert Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Hebert Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Hebert Mr. and Mrs. Tom Heflin II Mr. Jeffrey Helton Mr. and Mrs. Howard Henderson Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Herring Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Hibbard Mr. and Mrs. Allen Hodgkins III Mr. Albert Hoffmeister III Mr. and Mrs. John Holmes Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Holmes Mrs. Linda Hull Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Hustmyre Mr. and Mrs. Richard Huye Jr. Ms. Susan Hymel Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Jackson Mr. and Mrs. David Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Michael Johnson Mr. James Joubert Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Kappel Mr. and Mrs. Charles Keaton II Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Kelly Mrs. Doris Kistler Mr. and Mrs. Jon Kliebert Mr. and Mrs. David Koch Mr. and Mrs. Brian Kurtz Mr. Christian LaCouture Mr. Jason Landry Mr. and Mrs. Ricky Landry Ms. Shelley Landry Mr. and Mrs. David Lavergne Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Lavigne Mr. and Mrs. James Lee Mr. and Mrs. Hudson Lemoine Ms. Mary Lewis Mr. Jesse Locke Mr. and Mrs. J. Reed Luneau Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Mainord Ms. Fatemeh Malekian Mr. and Mrs. Barry Mancuso Mr. Jamie Manuel Mr. and Mrs. Angelos Matt Mr. Paul Mattingly Mr. and Mrs. Robert McCandless Ms. Sherian Mcgee Mr. and Mrs. William McHie Mr. and Mrs. W. Bland Mendolia Mr. and Mrs. J. Troy Menier Mr. and Mrs. Billy Michelli Mr. and Mrs. M. Scott Miller Mr. and Mrs. Brian Miller Mrs. Suzanne Miller Mr. and Mrs. L. Brice Millet Jr. Mrs. Cindy Millet Mr. and Mrs. E. Keith Minton

Mr. and Mrs. Brian Miranda Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Mockler Mrs. Anna Molaison Mr. and Mrs. Robert Morgan Miss Megan Mosley Mr. and Mrs. W. Hunter Mosley Mr. Greg Naquin Mr. and Mrs. R. Chris Nevils Ms. L. Rene Nevils Mrs. Sarah Dupree Mr. Peter Newman Mr. and Mrs. C. Dean Newton Mr. and Mrs. Chris Nickens Mr. Michael Nicolosi Mrs. Lillia Noel Mr. and Mrs. Alfredo Ordonez Mr. and Mrs. Albert Paula Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Pecoraro Mr. Vincent Pecoraro Mr. and Mrs. Henry Pecue Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Henry Pecue III Mr. Gary Penzato Mr. Gerard Peters Mr. and Mrs. Harry Philips Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Chad Pierce Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Pike Mr. and Mrs. James Pinell Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Plauche Mrs. Stephanie Player Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Pol Mr. and Mrs. Charles Ponder IV Ms. Sharon Posey Mrs. Rose Powell Dr. and Mrs. David Prudhome Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Rabalias Mrs. Shannon Ragusa Mr. and Mrs. Rick Rambo Mrs. Karen Reed Mr. and Mrs. Philip Robillard Ms. Tiffany Rogers Mr. and Mrs. Maximo Roman Mrs. Ann Row Mr. Benson Row Mr. and Mrs. James Sandlin Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Schexnayder Dr. and Mrs. J. Kyle Schwab Mr. and Mrs. David Seeds Mr. and Mrs. Brady Sessums Mr. and Mrs. David Shelby II Mr. and Mrs. David Soileau Mrs. Margaretta Spielman Mr. and Mrs. Robert Sullivan Mrs. Marianne Sullivan Mr. and Mrs. Kirk Summers Mr. Matthew Sutton Miss Angela Tam Mr. and Mrs. Chad A Taylor Mr. and Mrs. Warren Taylor Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Tebbutt Mr. and Mrs. Michael Telich III Mr. and Mrs. C. Cory Thompson Mrs. Vicki Thompson Mr. and Mrs. Micheal Tolle Dr. and Mrs. Sunil Vasanjee Mr. and Mrs. Tim Verkaik Mr. and Mrs. Charles Villarreal Mr. Robert Warr Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Alan Watts Mr. and Mrs. Ben Welch Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wendt Mr. and Mrs. J. Dennis Westbrook Ms. Mandy Whitaker Mr. and Mrs. Tim White Mr. and Mrs. Mark Wiggins Mr. and Mrs. Horace Wilkinson V Ms. Virginia Wilkinson Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Williamson Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Winters Mr. and Mrs. Jason Winters Mrs. Tara Wood Mr. Greg Wood Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Wooten

Mr. and Mrs. Richard Wright Mr. Joseph Zagar Mr. and Mrs. Philip Zimmerman Kelly & John Alberado Peg Austin Michael B. Avant In memory of Kay Fenton William & Marie Bennett Mary Theresa Benson John Bilisoly Carol Anne & Sid Blitzer Robert A. Bogan, III Diane M. Bruce George & Marilyn Burgess in memory of Patricia Aumiller Hines Adrian & Betsy Castro Ava Newton Castro Armando B. Corripio J. Michael Cutshaw Susan Dampf Dr. Sarah B. D’Autremont Jill Dawson Dr. Andy & Colette Dean Brenda Dunne Randall Ellis Judy & Frank Foil Raymond & Brenda Fryoux Patti Gerald Vincent & Rhenda Giaccone Keith R. Gibson, MD Mona Goudeau James & Jacqueline Gray Dr. & Mrs. Al S. Haase, Jr. Robert & Sharon Harper Kathleen P. Harrison Dr. William Hines Kenneth A. Hughes Cooper & Katie Hurst Charles “Chuck” Longacre and Susan Jackson in memory of Betty Ann Cummings Ric & Cary Kearny Henry & Barbara Knox Sam C. Lampo Christine Lipsey Carol & Jay Little Bob & Lyn Lunsford Wanda & Gary Magee in memory of Sanford LaBauve Evelyn Major Patty & Tommy Miremont Mobile Electric Supply, LLC Nancy Murrill Bland & Diane O’Connor Dr. & Mrs. Victor M. Oliver Laura L. Oubre Patricia A. Penton Anna Perrault Raymond Prince in memory of Raymond U. & Mollie S. Prince Marsha Reichle Ms. Tina Reid Daniel & Judith Rhodes Emma T. Roza Anne & Alvin Rotenberg Edward & Mary Rotenberg Mike & Debbie Sampite Patricia & Leonard Sedlin Ross Shuffield, Jr. Edna Lucy Sparrow Katherine & Elvin Spillman Helen S. Taylor Randy & Mary Theriot Dr. O.M. Thompson, Jr. Sharon & Michael Vincent Joel D. Williams Tyrone Williams Richard & Barbara Wilson Fidelity (Donor Advisor Fund)

Jay & Liz Jolly Constance Carlton Vicki Frick Jackie Dennis Charles Travis Taylor JO ANN FALGOUST Jeff and Debbye Calmes Sherri Denicola in memory of Nick Denicola Charles Milan Michael Hollins Claudia Hawkins Edward Latiolais Steve Kleinpeter Evie Tate Sarah Rountree Kayren Besson Raneta Riddle Uvonne Brewer Ronnie Gagnet Jay Montalbano Macee Spencer Sam Laramore Celeste Viator Jenna Frederic Sheryl Young Ann Langlois Carol Bonnecaze Amy Stricker Derek Foret Glen LaBorde Alicia Knighton Buck Gladden Barry Meyer Beth Olinde John Alwood Elizabeth Alwood Skip Sharrer Daryl Ellis Tiffany Ellis Randy Ledet Steve Huggins Hannis T. Bourgeois, LLP Terry Cormier Katherine and Paul Haygood in memory of Mr. Cary Saurage Mrs. John Berry Debby & Len Apcar Elizabeth T. Weimer Thomas Jones Deborah B. Hughes-Jones Wynona E. Peters Nelda S. Harvey Benjamin & Patricia Spann in memory of 4 Spann Brothers Leo, Delroy, Bill & Louis Mrs. E.E. Spielman, Jr. Pattie M. Bankston Juanita W. Glover Raymond James (Len’s IRA) Sterling E. Sightler, MD Michael & Kelley Olinde Richard G. Carter

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

DOW 49,149.63 -42.36 -0.09%

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Wall Street slumps as bank, tech stocks fall

NEW YORK — Losses for several banks and Big Tech stocks pulled indexes lower on Wednesday, even though the majority of stocks on Wall Street rose. The S&P 500 slipped 0.5% for its second straight loss after setting its all-time high. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 42 points, or 0.1%, and the Nasdaq composite lost 1%. Wells Fargo helped pull the market lower after falling 4.6%. The San Francisco-based bank reported weaker profit and revenue for the latest quarter than expected, with analysts citing lower trading fees and other miscellaneous items. Bank of America fell 3.8% despite reporting a stronger profit than analysts expected, with some consternation about the size of its upcoming expenses. Citigroup, which is in the midst of a turnaround under Chair and CEO Jane Fraser, fell 3.3% following its own profit report. Companies across industries are under pressure to report strong growth in profits to justify how high their stock prices have run recently. Analysts are looking for businesses across the S&P 500 to report earnings per share for the final three months of 2025 that are roughly 8% higher than a year earlier, according to FactSet.

Verizon outage disrupts services across the U.S. NEW YORK — Many Verizon customers encountered a widespread outage on Wednesday, disrupting calling and other cellular services across the U.S. The carrier acknowledged that there was an “issue impacting wireless voice and data services.” Verizon didn’t specify what was causing the disruptions, but said in an update that it had deployed its engineering teams. Outage tracker Downdetector showed that Verizon customers began to report issues with their service around noon E.T. Reports appeared to peak at more than 175,000 by 11:30 a.m.— but still remained elevated later into the afternoon, sitting at nearly 57,000 as of 2:30 p.m. Impacted users said their phones were in “SOS” mode or had other no signal messages. In cities like New York, alerts were sent out warning that the outage may disrupt 911 calls — urging residents to try landlines and devices from other carriers, if available, or visit a local police or ﬁre station in-person in case of an emergency. Per Downdetector, other major hubs impacted by Verizon’s outage included Washington D.C., Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles and Portland, Oregon. But consumers across the country said they were experiencing disruptions.

Calif. investigates child porn on Musk’s Grok SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California announced an investigation into Elon Musk’s artificial intelligence company xAI on Wednesday, with Gov. Gavin Newsom saying that the social media site owned by the billionaire is a “breeding ground for predators to spread nonconsensual sexually explicit AI deepfakes.” Grok, the xAI chatbot, includes image-generation features that allow users to morph existing photos into new images. The newly created images are posted on X. In some cases, users have created sexually explicit or nonconsensual images based on real people, including altered depictions that appear to show individuals partially or fully undressed. Others have generated images that appear to show minors, prompting criticism that there are not sufﬁcient guardrails to prohibit the creation of child pornography. The social media site has previously said “we take action against illegal content on X, including Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), by removing it, permanently suspending accounts, and working with local governments and law enforcement as necessary.

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Economist says La. economy is trending up

to meet national employment munities the places that people eral Reserve Bank. But state still lags gle The survey notes that the 2026 growth to pandemic setbacks, want to know, because people have behind national trends when Louisiana was hit particu- a lot of freedom and choice now.” outlook was computed with some

BY IANNE SALVOSA Staff writer

The Louisiana economy is moving in the right direction postpandemic, an economist says, but the state still struggles to match national economic growth. State employment surpassed 2 million in May, exceeding prepandemic levels, and continues to grow, but did not rebound as quickly as national employment levels, Stephen Barnes, an associate professor of economics at the University of Louisiana Barnes at Lafayette said. Barnes presented an economic outlook presentation at the Rotary Club of Baton Rouge on Wednesday afternoon. He attributes the state’s strug-

larly hard in tourism, oil and gas. “It’s been on a path of faster growth,” he said of the national economy. “So good that Louisiana is moving in the right direction but concerning that we’re still struggling.” The state is taking the right steps toward economic development, with major projects on the docket like the Meta data center in Richland Parish, but large investments are not new to the state, he said. The missing piece to meeting the pace of national economic growth is investing in public initiatives, pointing to the restoration of the LSU lakes as an example. Barnes said the state can invest further in public education to assure residents that Louisiana is a place they can raise a family. “We’re missing the ﬁnal stretch of the sales pitch for Louisiana,” Barnes said. “We need to be a little bit more intentional about investing in making our cities and com-

While employment lags, other economic indicators like personal income have fared better, with state personal income levels trending higher than the consumer price index since December 2022, according to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis data. “The good news is incomes have actually been growing a little bit faster than inflation,” he said. “So as much as we still might be concerned about inflation, generally speaking, there’s still money coming into the economy that can help kind of keep things moving forward.” In the first half of 2026, real GDP is expected to grow by 2% and by 1.9% in the latter half of the year, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia’s Livingston Survey. The survey estimates that the inflation rate will fall to 2.8% in 2026 and 2.4% in 2027, still above the 2% benchmark set by the Fed-

economic data either delayed or missing due to the government shutdown in fall 2025. Barnes is keeping an eye on future exchange rates, which are impactful to the Louisiana economy due to the state’s numerous petrochemical plants. The oil and chemical industries are sensitive to changes in the global market, he said. He serves as the independent economist on the Louisiana Revenue Estimating Conference, which other members consist of Gov. Jeff Landry, Louisiana Senate President Cameron Henry, RMetairie, and state House Speaker Phillip DeVillier, R-Eunice. The group computes an estimate for the state general fund for the following year. He said he expects the state revenues to slightly decrease and remain ﬂat in 2026. “It’s good, but it’s not amazing,” he said.

Retail sales had a November that was better than expected Numbers delayed due to government shutdown

BY ANNE D’INNOCENZIO AP retail writer

NEW YORK — Shoppers increased their spending in November from October as holiday shopping kicked into full gear. Retail sales rose a better-than-expected 0.6% in November, following a revised 0.1% decline October, according to the Commerce Department. The report on Wednesday was delayed more than a month because of the 43-day government shutdown. Retail sales rose 0.1% increase in September, but jumped 0.6% in July and August and 1% in June. The federal government is gradually catching up on economic reports that were postponed by the shutdown. The retail sales figures, which are not adjusted for inﬂation, showed that in most cases shoppers focused on gifts and pulled away from other areas. Sales at clothing and accessories stores rose 0.9%, while online businesses had a 0.4% increase. Business at sporting goods and hobby stores was up 1.9%. But furniture and home furnishing stores posted a 0.1% dip, while consumer electronics and appliance stores saw their business unchanged in November from October. The snapshot offers only a partial look at consumer spending and doesn’t include many services, including travel and hotel lodges. But the lone services category — restaurants — registered an uptick of 0.6%. A category of sales that excludes volatile sectors such as gas, cars, and restaurants rose in November by a solid 0.4%, a sign that consumers are still spending on discretionary items. “Consumers are gloomy, but they are still spending,” said Heather Long, chief

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JENNy KANE

Shoppers increased their spending in November from October as holiday shopping kicked into full gear. economist at Navy Federal Credit Union. “The only areas they are pulling back in are home improvement, home furnishings and some electronics and appliances. Outside of those areas, consumers continue to spend and they are likely to keep that up in early 2026 as they receive larger-than-normal tax refunds. ” The report comes as 41,000 attendees from retailers, brands and technology companies gathered for the annual three-day National Retail Federation convention. Shoppers have been growing anxious about high prices and impact of President Donald Trump’s tariffs, as well as a souring job market. So the outlook for shopping for this year was a key issue that dominated discussions. Inﬂation cooled a bit last month as prices for gas and used cars fell, a sign that stub-

bornly elevated cost pressures are slowly easing, according to a report from the Labor Department Tuesday. Consumer prices rose 0.3% in December from the prior month, the same as in November. Excluding the volatile food and energy categories, core prices rose 0.2%, also matching November’s figure. Increases at that pace, over time, would bring inflation closer to the Federal Reserve’s target of 2%. Many economists had predicted inflation to jump last month as the government resumed normal data collection after the six-week shutdown last fall, so the modest increases that matched the November figures came as a relief. The price of manufactured goods was flat in December, a sign that the impact of tariffs may be starting to fade.

Despite tariffs, China’s trade surplus surges to a record $1.2 trillion BY CHAN HO-HIM Associated Press

HONG KONG — China’s trade surplus surged to a record of almost $1.2 trillion in 2025, the government said Wednesday, as exports to other countries made up for slowing shipments to the U.S. under President Donald Trump’s onslaught of higher tariffs. China’s exports rose 5.5% for the whole of last year to $3.77 trillion, customs data showed, as Chinese automakers and other manufacturers expanded into markets across the globe. Imports ﬂatlined at $2.58 trillion. The 2024 trade surplus was over $992 billion. In December, China’s exports climbed 6.6% from the year before in dollar terms, better than economists’ estimates and higher than November’s 5.9% year-on-year increase. Imports in December were up 5.7% year-on-year, compared to November’s 1.9%. China’s trade surplus surpassed the $1 trillion mark for the ﬁrst

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO

Economists expect exports will continue to support China’s economy this year, despite trade friction and geopolitical tensions. time in November, when the trade surplus reached $1.08 trillion in the ﬁrst 11 months of last year. Economists expect exports will continue to support China’s economy this year, despite trade friction and geopolitical tensions.

While China’s exports to the U.S. fell sharply after Trump returned to ofﬁce and escalated his trade war with the world’s second-largest economy, that decline has been largely offset by shipments to other markets in South America,

Southeast Asia, Africa and Europe. For the whole of 2025, China’s exports to the U.S. fell 20%. In contrast, exports to Africa surged 26%. Those to Southeast Asian countries jumped 13%; to the European Union 8%, and to Latin America, 7%. Strong global demand for computer chips and other devices and the materials needed to make them were among categories that supported China’s exports, analysts said. Car exports also grew last year. Auto exports surged 21% in 2025 to more than 7 million units, driven by electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids, according to the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, an industry group, on Wednesday. Strong exports have helped keep China’s economy growing at an annual rate close to its ofﬁcial target of about 5%. That has triggered alarm in countries that fear a ﬂood of cheap imports is damaging local industries.

The Advocate ■ theadvocate.com ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ 7A

lll

ABORTION

Continued from page 1A are wrestling with blue states over how to enforce conﬂicting regulations of abortion pills, ever since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade. The meeting of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee was led by Sen. Bill Cassidy, a physician. He argued abortion pills endanger women, particularly when they are prescribed without an in-person visit. Cassidy, R-Baton Rouge, said doctors who dispense the pills by mail have no way to conﬁrm gestational age, rule out ectopic pregnancy or determine whether a woman is being coerced or abused. Democrats pushed back sharply, pointing to decades of research showing that the drug is safe and effective and accusing Republicans of using safety arguments to justify broader abortion restrictions. “Let’s be clear about what this hearing is about,” Sen. Bernie Sanders, a Vermont independent who caucuses with Democrats and is the committee’s ranking member, said. “It’s not the safety of a drug. It is about the ongoing effort of my friends in the Republican Party to deny the women of this country the basic right to control their own bodies.” The clash underscored the reality of abortion access in Louisiana since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022: While nearly all abortions are banned in the state, abortion has not disappeared. After the ban, in-person abortions in Louisiana fell to zero while requests for mailed abortion pills steadily increased, reaching roughly 900 per month by 2025 — more than before the ban, according to the Society of Family Planning. Mifepristone is a medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to end an early pregnancy, and is also used in medi-

LANDRY

Continued from page 1A JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, amid Trump’s calls for a U.S. takeover of the island. Meanwhile, on Monday, the Greenland Dog Sledding Association, or KNQK, which organizes the Avannaata Qimussersua race, issued a statement saying it was investigating who invited Landry to the event. In a Jan. 6 interview with Fox News Radio, Landry said he was asked to go to the event, which he planned to attend in March. But the KNQK statement said the organization “considers the participation of foreign political actors in Avannaata Qimussersua to be wholly inappropriate.” Trump in December named Landry special envoy to Greenland to help pursue the president’s goal of acquiring the territory. Though Trump is threatening to seize Greenland, Landry has painted his own role in the matter as a peaceful one, using Louisiana charm to entice the territory’s residents into joining the U.S. He said on Jan. 6 that he was much more interested in talking to Greenland resi-

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By MARK SCHIEFELBEIN

Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-Baton Rouge, who chairs the Senate’s health committee, argued Wednesday that abortion pills endanger women, particularly when they are prescribed without an in-person visit. cal settings to help manage miscarriages. In 2024, Louisiana classiﬁed it as a controlled dangerous substance, making it illegal to possess the drug without a prescription, with an exception for pregnant women. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill testiﬁed at the hearing that federal rules allowing abortion pills to be prescribed online and mailed into Louisiana have allowed for illegal abortions. She said Louisiana has seen cases involving women taking the pills beyond the medically advised gestational age, coercion and medical emergencies tied to pills obtained through the mail. Murrill sparred with Sanders, who questioned whether Louisiana women should be able to make their own decisions about abortion. “If a woman in Louisiana turns to mifepristone because she has no other option — that’s 10,000 women

dents than government ofﬁcials, though the exact nature of his position was still being worked out. Just after he was appointed special envoy, Landry said, “All we’re going to do is have us a great conversation with those folks in Greenland.” “We’re gonna bring them some great Cajun food,” he said. Landry’s appointment roiled officials in Greenland and Denmark, who have pushed back against Trump’s threats. Greenland is a semiautonomous territory of Denmark, which formerly colonized the island and now funds much of the government’s budget there. KNQK said it learned from a journalist that Landry had been invited to its annual dogsledding race. “The KNQK Board ﬁnds it unacceptable that political pressure is being exerted from outside,” the organization’s statement said. “The board is currently working closely with patrons to determine who sent invitations to foreign actors.” KNQK did not respond to an inquiry asking whether it would specifically bar Landry from attending the event. Trump has claimed on social media that the U.S. “needs Greenland for the

a year in Louisiana — what do you tell those women?” said Sanders. “Do you think they have a right to make that choice, or do they not?” In response, Murrill said the Louisiana Legislature enacted laws to protect women on a bipartisan basis. “We live in a land of the rule of law, and that is the law of Louisiana,” Murrill said. “They can seek that care in another state.” Medical witnesses offered different assessments of the drug’s safety. Republican witnesses said adverseevent reporting is incomplete and that in-person exams remain critical for safety. A Democratic witness countered that more than 100 peerreviewed studies show mifepristone is safe and effective, including when prescribed via telehealth with screening protocols. The hearing unfolded as Louisiana moves forward with aggres-

purpose of National Security.” He has challenged Denmark’s ability to defend the territory and suggested it could fall to Russia or China. The president appears emboldened by this month’s military operation in Venezuela, when U.S. forces removed then-president Nicolás Maduro and his wife from the country. The United States already has military access to Greenland under a 1951 de-

Landmark of Plaquemine is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. We are committed to the principal of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status.

sive enforcement actions aimed at doctors in states where abortion remains legal. On Tuesday, Murrill announced felony charges against a California doctor accused of mailing abortion pills to a woman in St. Tammany Parish. Gov. Jeff Landry signed an extradition request seeking to have California turn the doctor over for prosecution. Newsom said California would not comply with Landry’s request. “My position on this has been clear since 2022: We will not allow extremist politicians from other states to reach into California and try to punish doctors based on allegations that they provided reproductive health care services,” Newsom said in a statement. “Not today. Not ever.” California in recent years has passed abortion shield laws, which are designed to protect providers

fense agreement, and Danish officials have said the U.S. can bolster its bases there without acquiring the island. Forcibly taking Greenland could spell disaster for NATO, the 32-country military alliance that includes

from legal action or prosecution initiated in states with abortion bans. Amanda Barrow, senior staff attorney at the Center on Reproductive Health, Law, and Policy at the UCLA School of Law, said under California’s shield laws, Newsom is required not to recognize a demand for extradition for providing abortion care that’s legal in California. “State agents can’t arrest someone or cooperate with out-of-state efforts to impose liability for providing abortion care that’s lawful in California,” she said. “Generally, California shield laws should prevent a Louisiana criminal action against a California provider of abortion care that’s lawful in California from moving forward in the Louisiana state courts.” New York officials previously refused a similar request in a separate case involving a New York doctor accused of prescribing abortion pills to a minor in West Baton Rouge Parish. Throughout the two-hour hearing on Capitol Hill, Republicans did not say they were seeking a federal ban, but they did advocate steps that would sharply reduce access, such as restoring an in-person dispensing requirement and tightening an FDA safety program called Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy, or REMS, that limits how a drug can be prescribed. Prior to 2021, mifepristone had to be prescribed in person. In Louisiana, where clinics are closed, that would functionally eliminate access to the pills for use in abortions. During a press call with reporters Tuesday, Cassidy did not directly answer whether the hearing was laying the groundwork for a ban, but said the goal was to highlight dangers. “If we really care about the young woman and if we certainly care about the child, then there should be things like an in-person visit required, and we should have a database to see what are the numbers of complications associated with it,” Cassidy said.

the United States and Denmark, the leaders of many member countries have said. After Wednesday’s highlevel meeting at the White House, Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen said the United States

and Denmark still had a “fundamental disagreement” over Greenland. But the two sides agreed to create a working group to attempt to work through their differences. The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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8A ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

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Baton Rouge Weather TODAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Sunny, Chilly

Near-Freezing Start

Reinforcing Chill

Sunny and Crisp

Mostly Sunny

Partly Sunny 10%

HIGH

LOW

53° 32°

LOW

68° 42°

LOW

57° 30°

LOW

52° 31°

ALMANAC

LOW

59° 36°

Weather News by Chief Meteorologist Dr. Josh Eachus

Plenty of sunshine is expected on Thursday, but that won’t help temperatures as highs just barely get back to the low 50s. Expect north breezes of 5-10 mph. By Friday morning, the cold will settle in even more, and a widespread frost is expected to kick off the day. you will definitely want the heavier coat and maybe a few extra minutes to defrost the windshield! Friday afternoon will give us a tease with highs rebounding into the upper 60s, but don’t get used to another cold front will be right on its heels. That stronger cold front will push through Friday night into Saturday morning. A few, brief showers may occur as the front passes, but like the midweek front, any rain amounts would be light.

LOW

58° 39°

AROUND THE REGION

THE NATION

BATON ROUGE THROUGH 5 P.M. WEDNESDAy

TEMPERATURE

High/low Normal high/low Record high Record low

66°/49° 62°/41° 82° in 1937 20° in 1964

PRECIPITATION

Longview 54/42

TODAY

MODERATE

READING 57 MAIN POLLUTANT Ozone

MAIN POLLUTANT Ozone

SOURCE: LOUISIANA DEQ AND AIRNOW.GOV

RIVER STAGES FLOOD STAGE 24-HOUR STAGE CHANGE Memphis 34 -2.90 +0.86 Vidalia-Natchez 48 14.70 -0.53 Red River Landing 48 18.60 -0.10 Baton Rouge 35 6.70 -0.40 Donaldsonville 27 3.50 none Reserve 22 2.44 -0.45 New Orleans 17 1.50 +0.05 MISSISSIPPI

OHIO

Cairo

14.60

-0.27

-0.78

-0.64

18 29 8

1.39 26.18 3.44

-3.54 -1.20 +0.34

13 15

10.02 9.35

-1.58 +1.69

47 34 29 20 12 6

6.42 4.17 3.83 3.05 2.40 1.85

+0.01 -0.03 -0.06 +0.11 -0.70 -0.21

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

Associated Press

MINNEAPOLIS — A federal officer shot a person in the leg in Minneapolis after being attacked with a shovel and broom handle while trying to make an arrest Wednesday, federal officials said. Smoke filled the street near the site of the shooting as federal officers and protesters squared off. A group of officers wearing gas masks and helmets fired tear gas and grenades into a small crowd while protesters threw snowballs and chanted, “Our streets.” Such scenes have become common on the streets of Minneapolis since an immigration agent fatally shot Renee Good on Jan. 7. Agents have yanked people from cars and homes and been confronted by angry bystanders who are demanding that officers pack up and leave. The Department of Homeland Security said in a statement on the social media platform X that federal law enforcement officers stopped a person from Venezuela who was in the U.S. illegally. The person drove away and crashed into a parked car before taking off on foot, DHS said. After officers reached the person, two other people arrived from a nearby apartment and all three started attacking the officer, according to DHS. “Fearing for his life and safety as he was being ambushed by three individuals, the officer fired a defensive shot to defend his life,” DHS said. The two people who came out of the apartment are in custody, it said. The shooting took place about 4.5 miles north of where Good was killed. Earlier Wednesday, a judge gave the Trump administration time to respond to a request to suspend its immigration crackdown in Minnesota, while the Pentagon looked for military law-

10s 20s 30s 40s 50s 60s 70s 80s 90s 100s 110s

Beaumont 58/43 Port Arthur 58/47

Baton Rouge 53/32

Lafayette 55/38

New Orleans 53/38

Lake Charles 57/41

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

Houma 56/36

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

TODAY City

Austin Boston Dallas Fairbanks Honolulu Houston Las Vegas Louisville Miami Minneapolis

TIDES HIGH

FT.

Lake Pontchartrain (Tchefuncte River) 4:46a 0.5 Shell Beach 11:22p 1.1 South Point, Marsh Island 4:38p 1.3 Cypremort Point 7:46p 1.2 Grand Isle (Barataria Pass) 7:21p 0.9 Mississippi River (Southwest Pass) 6:34p 1.1 Wine Island 8:29p 1.0

LOW

SUN AND MOON Sunrise today Sunset tonight Moonrise today Moonset today

FT.

4:56p -0.3 10:43a -0.6 5:57a -0.9 9:47a -0.7 6:09a -0.6 4:22a -0.8 7:11a -0.7

HIGH

FT.

LOW

FT.

---------------

NEW

FIRST

FULL

LAST

JAN 18

JAN 25

FEB 1

FEB 9

yers to join what has become a chaotic law enforcement effort in the state. “What we need most of all right now is a pause. The temperature needs to be lowered,” state Assistant Attorney General Brian Carter said during the first hearing in a lawsuit filed by Minnesota and the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul. Local leaders say the government is violating free speech and other constitutional rights with the surge of law enforcement. U.S. District Judge Katherine Menendez promised to keep the case “on the front burner” and gave the U.S. Justice Department until Monday to file a response to a request for a restraining order. The judge is also handling a separate lawsuit challenging the tactics used by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other federal officers when they encounter protesters and observers. A decision could be released this week. During a televised speech Wednesday evening, Gov. Tim Walz described Minnesota as being in chaos, saying what’s happening in the state “defies belief.” “Let’s be very, very clear, this long ago stopped being a matter of immigration enforcement,” he said. “Instead, it’s a campaign of organized brutality against the people of Minnesota by our own federal government.” The Department of Homeland Security says it has made more than 2,000 arrests in the state since early December and is vowing to not back down. The Pentagon is preparing to send military lawyers to Minneapolis to assist. CNN, citing an email circulating in the military, says Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is asking the branches to identify 40 lawyers known as judge advocate general officers or JAGs, and 25 of them will serve as special assistant U.S. attorneys in Minneapolis.

FRIDAY

Lo W

65 49 60 12 79 60 69 32 73 30

43 s 21 r 46 s 4 sn 66 pc 45 s 45 s 26 sf 45 sh 27 sn

72 33 60 30 77 74 68 45 69 30

40 s 29 pc 35 s 4 i 67 pc 47 s 44 s 30 c 59 s 5 sn

SOLUNAR TABLE

7:02 a.m. 5:26 p.m. 4:41 a.m. 2:35 p.m.

Today Fri. Sat. Sun. Mon. Tue. Wed.

MAJOR

8:18a 9:05a 9:53a 10:43a 11:05a 11:57a 12:52a

MINOR

MAJOR

2:05a 8:43p 2:51a 9:31p 3:40a 10:19p 4:30a 11:09p 5:21a ---6:12a 12:24p 7:03a 1:15p

TODAY City

Nashville New Orleans Orlando Philadelphia Phoenix Pittsburgh Raleigh St. Louis San Diego Tampa

FRIDAY

Lo W

37 53 60 39 79 21 41 36 76 60

27 c 38 s 35 c 22 sf 51 s 17 sn 21 pc 32 s 46 c 38 c

50 67 59 36 80 32 48 45 74 57

31 pc 49 s 43 s 30 pc 51 s 29 sn 35 s 20 pc 47 s 45 s

66 49 48 62 29 21 63 54 60 35 55

43 pc 39 r 42 r 41 pc 3 sn 6 sn 42 pc 44 c 42 r 32 c 47 pc

60 50 50 68 11 18 65 52 60 37 60

40 s 43 pc 39 sh 47 s 8 s -2 c 46 pc 42 c 40 c 32 c 44 s

THE WORLD

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.

MINOR

2:30p 3:18p 4:06p 4:56p 5:46p 6:36p 7:26p

Amsterdam Bangkok Barcelona Berlin Brussels Cairo Dublin Frankfurt Havana Hong Kong Jerusalem

49 91 58 42 51 67 45 50 77 75 53

44 c 74 pc 43 pc 33 pc 43 r 53 s 33 s 37 c 57 r 63 s 39 pc

49 92 56 44 51 69 47 50 72 76 54

41 pc 74 pc 48 pc 31 pc 43 c 53 pc 37 c 35 pc 57 s 62 pc 42 pc

Kuwait City London Madrid Mexico City Montreal Moscow New Delhi Paris Rome Stockholm Tokyo

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

Federal officer shot person in leg after being attacked, officials say BY STEVE KARNOWSKI

Hattiesburg 51/30

Alexandria 52/37

Many 54/35

AIR QUALITY MODERATE

-0s

Jackson 48/32

24 hours through 5 p.m. Wed. 0.02” Month to date (normal) 2.78” (2.94”) year to date (normal) 2.78” (2.94”)

YESTERDAY

-10

Monroe 52/36

Shreveport 54/41

Pentagon spokesperson Kingsley Wilson appeared to confirm the CNN report, by posting it on X with a comment that the military “is proud to support” the Justice Department. Jonathan Ross, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer who killed Good, suffered internal bleeding to his torso during the encounter, a Homeland Security official told The Associated Press. The official spoke to AP on condition of anonymity in order to discuss Ross’ medical condition. The official did not provide details about the severity of the injuries, and the agency did not respond to questions about the extent of the bleeding, exactly how he suffered the injury, when it was diagnosed or his medical treatment. There are many causes of internal bleeding, and they vary in severity from bruising to significant blood loss. Video from the scene showed Ross and other officers walking without obvious difficulty after Good was shot and her Honda Pilot crashed into other vehicles.

Landmark South Nursing and Rehab is an Equal OpportunityEmployerand prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. We are committed to the principal of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status.

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Ex-CATS CAO, contractor indicted

Pair accused of conspiracy to commit theft

BY PATRICK SLOAN-TURNER Staff writer

A former chief administrative ofﬁcer of the Capital Area Transit System and a contractor who did work for the agency were indicted Wednesday on theft and conspiracy charges brought by Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill’s ofﬁce. Pearlina Thomas, the former

CAO of Baton Rouge’s bus system, was charged with theft over $25,000, criminal conspiracy to commit theft over $25,000, malfeasance in ofﬁce and prohibited use of public funds. The contractor, Jarian “Jay” Colar, faces charges of theft over $25,000 and criminal conspiracy to commit theft over $25,000. The indictments did not give details about the alleged crimes, and

prosecutors declined to elaborate. Thomas was booked into the Orleans Parish jail Wednesday and could not immediately be reached for comment. Colar’s attorney, John McLindon, said Attorney General’s Ofﬁce investigators arrested Colar in the parking lot of Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge on Wednesday, soon after Colar’s wife had given birth.

Murrill’s ofﬁce declined to comment. He was later booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish prison. CATS ofﬁcials did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Thomas left CATS in 2022 amid controversy. Weeks before the system’s property tax renewal election, an audio recording surfaced on which Thomas claimed $5 million was missing from the agency. Thomas claimed in the recording that

then-CATS CEO Bill Deville had helped to cover up the missing funds. Thomas later confirmed the authenticity of the recording to WBRZ, but said her comments were a “poor choice of words” and that “it wasn’t $5 million, and he didn’t cover it up.” Thomas moved on to the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office as CAO. She later ﬁled a federal lawsuit against then-Sheriff Susan

ä See CATS, page 2B

5 East residents warned of water shut-offs City says complex landlord hasn’t fully paid bill in 6 months

BY QUINN COFFMAN Staff writer

Residents of a Lee Drive apartment complex received water shut-off warnings Tuesday because the landlord hasn’t fully paid the sewer bill in six months. The warnings, tacked to each door in the 5 East apartment complex by city-parish workers, said water service to the complex would be shut off Jan. 27 over nonpayment of the city-parish’s sewer/solid waste user fee. The postings direct residents to speak with the property’s manager. “Typically, everybody gets the month to pay it and then they get a disconnect notice, and then they have 10 days to pay for the disconnect notice. That’s everybody,” said Adrienne Mire, chief administrative officer of Baton Rouge Water Co. While Mire couldn’t go into speciﬁcs on any customer’s bill, she said in situations like this, the apartment complex owners are

STAFF PHOTOS By HILARy SCHEINUK

New Orleans artist Becky Fos, left, signs a Mardi Gras poster for Wanda Barnes, of Denham Springs, recently at the Rouses Market at Arlington Creek in Baton Rouge. Barnes was first in line.

DISPLAy PIECE

Becky Fos takes a selﬁe with fans lined up at the start of her Mardi Gras poster signing recently. The original piece was created to celebrate the 2026 Carnival season. The Baton Rouge stop was one of several for Fos as she embarked on a Gulf Coast signing tour.

ä See WATER, page 2B

Gonzales selects clerk after months of disputes BY CHRISTOPHER CARTWRIGHT Staff writer

The Gonzales City Council kicked off the new year by appointing a city clerk, ending a nine-month period during which, without someone in the role, multiple clashes over meeting minutes have occurred. The council unanimously approved the appointment of Anthony Keller, the city’s central services director, at its meeting Monday. Keller, who has worked for the city for more than 20 years, was nominated by Mayor Tim Riley following the departure of former City Clerk Brandon Boylan in April 2025. Speaking to the council before the vote, Keller thanked Riley and Wade Petite for their trust. Petite is serving as Gonzales chief of staff.

ä See CLERK, page 2B

Iberville employees to see bump in checks Officials aim to increase retention

BY AIDAN McCAHILL Staff writer

Iberville Parish employees will see a bump in their paychecks this week thanks to the parish’s ﬁrst cost of living adjustment since the charter was created in 1997 — part of a broader move by the parish government to overhaul its pay structure. Each of the parish’s roughly 230

employees will receive at least a 2.5% pay increase, while some others may receive an additional 1% based on a merit evaluation. The Parish Council approved the raises as part of the budget last fall following recommendations made by Baton Rouge-based consulting ﬁrm Emergent Method. The council also voted to implement tiered pay structures and an organizational chart for parish workers, both of which were also recommended by Emergent Method. Parish President Chris Daigle

said the decisions were made in part to increase employee retention and shift the way the parish government operates toward a more “businesslike approach.” When he took office in 2024, the average employee Daigle tenure was about 6.5 years, he said. Daigle hopes to at least double that, and says employees now have a better idea of their earning potential based on

their performance and tenure. “There was no consistency across Iberville Parish, and there was no equity,” he said. “This is to make sure the employees know that what you do every single day for the residents of Iberville Parish matters.” Other changes include offering free health and dental insurance for employees, and posting advertisements for job openings — something that had never been done before.

ä See IBERVILLE, page 2B

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CLERK

Continued from page 1B “I’ll do the best I can to ensure the accuracy of the city’s records, and I deﬁnitely would like to move forward to do a little auditing on our Municode ordinances, making sure they’re up to date online,” he said. “ … Other than that, I’m just asking for your support. I’ll do the best I can, and I just want to thank Brandon (Boylan) for what he’s done in the interim.” No council members spoke or asked questions before voting. After the vote, council members and meeting attendees applauded as Riley invited Keller to take his place with the council. “Thank you, Mr. City Clerk,” Riley said. “You can come on up.”

Disagreement over minutes

Former U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris walks onstage at the Saenger Theatre in New Orleans on Tuesday.

STAFF PHOTOS By CHRIS GRANGER

Harris brings book tour to N.O. BY TYLER BRIDGES

endorsed her. The book has been on the bestseller list for 15 weeks and has sold 675,000 copies across various formats, according to Simon & Schuster, the publisher. Copies of the book were displayed on shelves behind Harris and Odums, but she referred to it only a few times. Harris also timed her visit to coincide with Monday’s inauguration of her friend, New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno. She gave a shout out to Moreno, who was sitting in the front row. Harris swore in Moreno in the morning at the Saenger, picked up lunch from Lil Dizzy’s restaurant — she ordered two pieces of fried chicken, dirty rice, greens and mango lemonade, said proprietor Arkesha Baquet — toured the headquarters of the Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club and then met Moreno for drinks and dinner at the Hotel Chloe.

On Tuesday, Harris toured Odums’ studio in the Bywater neighborhood and was fortified for her nighttime event with muffalettas and boudin brought to the Saenger by Moreno from the restaurant Cochon Butcher. Tuesday night’s event was billed as “A Conversation with Kamala Harris.” Odums began by asking Harris about her formative years. “I was raised by a mother who fought for everything she had,” Harris said. “I have seen and experienced, in particular, injustice and the suffering that results from that. Odums asked about the weight of serving as the first vice president who was a woman, Black and also south Asian. “We think status quo means static,” Harris said. “Oh, when you try to mess with status quo, you will see it’s quite dynamic, and it will fight against change. I’ve experienced that in many ways.” People who follow politics want

to know whether Harris will run for president again after she announced in July that she won’t run this year to be California’s governor, even though many pundits saw her as a shoo-in. Odums never broached the question, noting at one point that he was an artist, not a journalist. James Carville, the Democratic political strategist, praised Harris in an interview for “a really remarkable career” that included stints as San Francisco’s district attorney, California’s attorney general, a senator and ﬁnally Biden’s vice president. That’s as far as she’ll go politically, he believes. “In 2028, I don’t think the Democrats are going to look back to 2024,” Carville said. “I just don’t. Because they lost. There will be a whole flood of really good candidates.” Donna Brazile, a former chair of the Democratic National Committee who is from Kenner, said it’s too early to worry whether Harris will campaign to be president in 2028. In the meantime, Brazile said, “She can play an extraordinary role in reminding voters of what they were looking for in 2024 and the many promises that Donald Trump has broken.” U.S. Rep. Troy Carter, a Democrat whose district is anchored in New Orleans and extends up the Mississippi River to Baton Rouge, said he just wants Harris to remain involved. “She’d do herself and the country a disservice if she did not explore all options about her future and what she has to offer America, whether it’s elected ofﬁce or not,” Carter said.

the agreement. Work was to run from July 2021 to July 2022. The arrests are the second related to recent investigations by Murrill’s office into alleged corruption in East Baton Rouge Parish government. Last month, the Attorney General’s Office filed charges against Bradley Brown, a local developer, accusing him of multiple financial crimes, falsifying public records and money laundering. Brown was awarded $6 million in federal funds through the city-

parish to build a housing development in Scotlandville. He was arrested and bail was originally set at $500,000. That amount was later reduced to $17,500. Current city-parish employees met with FBI investigators last year about another publicly funded housing development. Emails obtained via a public records request show meeting plans and communication between Ofﬁce of Community Development Director Kelly LeDuff and FBI

agents, the U.S. Attorney’s Ofﬁce and the U.S. Housing and Urban Development’s Inspector General in last March. In those emails, LeDuff and other city-parish ofﬁcials discuss a contract awarded to Baton Rouge developer Jason Hughes, who received roughly $450,000 to remodel three small homes — one under 1,000 square feet, the other two under 700 square feet — on Central Road in Baton Rouge in 2022. Hughes has denied any wrongdoing.

Staff writer

Former Vice President Kamala Harris told stories of growing up with an immigrant mother who taught her to dream big and ﬁght injustice to a packed house at the Saenger Theater in New Orleans on Tuesday night. And Harris dispensed advice aimed particularly at many of the young Black women, telling them that they shouldn’t allow others to impose limits on them. Inevitably, of course, politics bubbled up into the discussion between Harris and Brandan “BMike” Odums, a New Orleans artist. “We are living under an administration that is authoritarian,” Odums said as he began a question midway through the hourlong event. “Incompetent and corrupt,” Harris broke in, her words overwhelmed by applause from the crowd. “This is a lame-duck president,” Harris said several minutes later, adding, “They’re making a mistake when they think the American people are falling for this.” But not once did Harris by name mention President Donald Trump, who defeated her 15 months ago. Nor did she discuss her political future. Harris visited New Orleans in 2022, 2023 and 2024 to speak at the Essence Festival of Culture. She returned this week to resume a nationwide tour promoting her book, “107 Days,” an account of what happened after she suddenly became the Democratic candidate when President Joe Biden dropped out of the race on July 21, 2024, and

CATS

Continued from page 1B Hutson, claiming Hutson forced her out of the job after she raised concerns about ﬁnancial relationships between the ofﬁce and the son of one of Hutson’s top aides. Colar was awarded a professional services contract for $50,000 to help CATS develop a strategic plan for generating new sources of revenue, according to a copy of

WATER

Continued from page 1B liable for the bill, not individual residents. Mire said her department posts notices to residents before disconnection, so there are no surprises and they can address the problem with their landlords. “We’re trying not to put 200-and-something people out of water if we can help it,” she said. In this case, Mire said the bill was “large” and hadn’t been fully paid in six months, although it might have been paid in part during that time. Mire said her department does its best to set up payment plans with both landlords and individual residents alike and takes into account when customers make good-faith efforts to get caught up on their bills. “We’ve had instances, thank

A Baldwin & Co. booth sells Kamala Harris’ book Tuesday.

confirmed that sewer costs are built into their rent, and that they were assured by a leasing office attendant that the bill would be taken care of. A leasing office attendant said they were aware of the disconnection notices and that tenants will be updated soon. The complex, located at 550 Lee Drive, is listed as being operated by Greengate Management, state business filings show. Greengate, which has addresses in Baltimore and an office in Lafayette, did not respond to requests for comment by The Advocate. Mason Batts, executive director of Mayor-President Sid EdSTAFF PHOTO By JAVIER GALLEGOS wards’ office, urged the complex Warnings were tacked to each door in the 5 East apartment complex by to repay its debt. city-parish workers, warning that water service to the complex would be “The residents have been payshut off over nonpayment of sewer bills. ing; that’s really who’s been suffering here,” he said. goodness very rarely, that we’ve notice is when people pay,” Mire had to turn people off, but for the said. Email Quinn Coffman at quinn. most part, after the disconnection Multiple residents at 5 East coffman@theadvocate.com.

The appointment brings some normalcy back to the council following last year’s budget showdowns and clerk absence. The clerk helps maintain records, including the minutes of city meetings. The absence of a clerk led to disputes over accurate recordkeeping last summer, when some council members said the minutes did not accurately reflect what had occurred. The council and city administration were at loggerheads late last summer, when no council member moved to reintroduce a much-delayed budget for the city. The group had to hold a special meeting to reintroduce it, and council member Tyler Turner argued a city clerk would have caught the error. In August, Riley nominated a Gonzales attorney to assume the role in a part-time capacity. Council members Kirk Boudreaux, Tyler Turner and Terri Lambert voted against the replacement, stating they wanted a full-time staff member who would also serve as chief administrative officer for the city, as specified in city ordinances.

Some disputes remain Despite Monday’s approval, a few subjects still spark disagreement between the city administration and some council members. Petite continues to serve as the city’s chief of staff without council approval, which council members say violates a municipal ordinance. Last spring, the Mayor’s Office asked the Louisiana Attorney General’s Ofﬁce for an opinion, which has yet to be decided. And although the council and administration reached an agreement on the budget last year, the last meeting of 2025 saw Boudreaux raise concerns over a lack of monthly budget statements. He said council members used to receive monthly budget statements but have not received any in months, and he asked Riley to start providing them. In response, Riley accused him of “grandstanding” and said he could come to City Hall at any time to get information. Additionally, at Monday’s meeting, council member Cynthia Gray James brought up concerns over the lack of a recreation director, a position that has remained open for months. Ranita Claiborne currently serves as the acting recreation director. In response to her questions, Riley said she should speak with him privately and said the city has never hired a recreational director. “We can discuss this, Ms. Cynthia, in the chambers,” he said. “You can get all your answers.”

IBERVILLE

Continued from page 1B Council President Steve Smith said the changes were long overdue. “Before, we had no pay structure at all. It was pretty much done at the will of the Parish President at the time,” he said. “(Employees) being recognized and being given a little something for their services, it points to a more caring atmosphere.” Looking ahead, Daigle said his biggest goals for Iberville are to increase “smart growth” in the parish through an upcoming economic Master Plan (the ﬁrst in 20 years), and to invest in recreation and improve the quality of life for residents, particularly those in St. Gabriel.

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Funerals Today Bourgeois, Stephanie

St. Ann's Catholic Church, 182 Church Road in Morganza, at 10:45 a.m.

Holdridge, Robert

Holy Rosary Catholic Church in St. Amant at 10:30 a.m.

LaFleur, Cedric

Holy Cross Catholic Church at 11am.

Martin, Joyce

Wilbert Funeral Home, 24120 Railroad Avenue in Plaquemine, at 1:30 p.m.

Newman, Brian

St. Isidore Catholic Church, 5657 Thomas Rd, Baton Rouge, LA at 11am.

Overstreet Guillory, Elizabeth

Hall's Celebration Center, Scenic Highway, at 11 a.m.

9348

Sardisco, Toni

St. George Catholic Church, 7808 St. George Dr., Baton Rouge, LA at 11am.

Swindle, Anita

Seale Funeral home in Denham Springs, LA at 11am.

country in his RV with Janice by his side. He never met a stranger and loved swapping stories with fellow RVers. Don also loved card games and never turned down a game of Bourree'. Don's legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the many people whose lives he touched with his generosity, humor, and steady presence. The family would like to thank Landmark Nursing Home, Pinnacle Hospice and Chris Coleman for their loving care. A celebration of Don's life will be held on January 16, 2026, at St. Joseph's Cathedral, 401 Main Street in Baton Rouge. Visitation will begin at 8:30 a.m., followed by a funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. Interment will take place afterward at Resthaven Gardens of Memory, 11817 Jefferson Highway in Baton Rouge.

Thibodeaux, George

Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Boulevard in New Orleans, at 11 a.m.

Zalfen, David

St. Thomas More Catholic Church in Baton Rouge at 11am.

Obituaries

Bongiovanni, Allison Savoie

Aucoin, Waldon Joseph 'Don'

Waldon "Don" Joseph Aucoin passed away peacefully on Friday, January 2, 2026, at the age of 86. Born in Soileau, Louisiana, Don spent much of his life in Texas and Colorado, building friendships, faith, and family ties before returning to his home state of Louisiana in 2010. We rest assured knowing he is with the Lord, sitting on a porch swing, just a-swingin'. He is survived by his devoted wife, Janice, with whom he shared 62 years of partnership; their daughter, Melinda Parker, and son in law, Phillip Parker; six grandchildren—Malissa "Missy" Gore, Joseph "Joey" Gore, Magen Gore, Kaitlyn Parker, Logan Parker, and Weston Parker—and numerous nieces and nephews. Don was preceded in death by his parents, Themie and Elvina Aucoin; his sisters, Bernadine Peace and Lila Delafosse; and his beloved daughter, Malissa Anne Aucoin Gore. Don and Janice met as young adults in Texas and their connection grew quickly, and their marriage became the foundation for a life filled with shared experiences, adventures, and a deep love for one another. Their life together spanned more than six decades and is a testament to their unwavering commitment and mutual support. Raised in a Cajun household where English was his second language, Don approached life with determination and pure stubbornness. He graduated from St. Edmonds Catholic School in Eunice, LA, served three years in the U.S. Army, and later earned an accounting degree from Lamar University. While attending night school, he worked filling Havoline bottles on Texaco's assembly line - an early step in what became a 41-year career as a loyal and dedicated accountant for the Texaco Pipeline division. Faith was central to Don's life. At St. Joseph's Cathedral, he was an active member of the Knights of Columbus Council #13632 and achieving 4th Degree standing. He served on the Coffee and Donut Committee greeting parishoners with donuts, coffee and conversation, and supported new members through the RCIA program. He also enjoyed lending his time and energy to St. Joseph's Day, Grands Day, the Special Olympics and countless other parish events, especially those involving food. Don was happiest when he was busy. He took great pride in helping build the homes his family lived in—two in Texas, one in Louisiana, and one in Colorado—and he was always tackling a new project, whether in the yard or around the house. A devoted sports fan, he spent many weekends at ball fields cheering on his girls or bundled up watching his beloved "Donkeys" play at Mile High. While he loved football, LSU baseball held a special place in his heart—mostly for the tailgating, food, and fellowship. After retiring from Texaco, Don discovered a true joy in traveling the i hi i h

Allison Elizabeth Savoie Bongiovanni, a native of Marrero and a resident of Gonzales, LA, a beloved daughter, wife, sister, teacher, aunt, and friend, departed this life on December 25, 2025, at the age of 45. She passed away peacefully after a lengthy battle with Multiple Sclerosis and PNH, with her parents and her husband Brian Bongiovanni, by her side. Allison was a retired Kindergarten teacher from Jefferson Parish. She loved crafting, writing poetry, and her animals. Allison was born on October 26, 1980, to Jill and Michael Savoie in Marrero, LA. Allison attended Immaculate Conception elementary school in Marerro and later Archbishop Blenk High School in Gretna, LA, from which she graduated in 1998. She participated in many sports. Allison graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education in 2003. Upon graduating from SLU, Allison went on to teach Kindergarten at William Hart Elementary in Gretna and at Ella Dolhonde Elementary in Metairie, LA. She was an inspiration to her young students and refused to give up on them, no matter the struggles. Allison found joy in crafting, always busy creating pens, jewelry, or decorating tumblers with care and love. Her creativity was a gift she shared freely, and we imagine Heaven prepared with a craft table just for her. Allison is survived by her loving husband Brian Bongiovanni of 18 years; her parents Jill and Michael Savoie; her sister Amy Savoie Clegg and husband Steven Clegg; her nephew Cannon Clegg; her mother-in-law Linda Bongiovanni; and numerous family members and friends. Allison's life was a blessing to everyone who knew her. Her warmth, selflessness, and giving heart will never be forgotten. She will be dearly missed. The family extends heartfelt thanks to all who supported Allison during his illnesses—especially the exceptional doctors and staff at Mary Bird, OLOL, Baton Rouge Clinic, and Baton Rouge General in Baton Rouge, who gave her the best hope and care.

Bonnecaze, Elizabeth Anding

Elizabeth Anding Bonnecaze passed away on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. A native of Baton Rouge, she was born on June 20, 1977. Growing up, she enjoyed playing with her neighborhood friends, swimming, and attending dance and piano classes. She graduated from Episcopal High

School in 1995 where she played volleyball and tennis, and was a cheerleader. Excited to spread her wings, Elizabeth moved to Colorado to attend college where she was a Chi Omega. During the summer of 1996, she conquered a 56 day Outward Bound Odyssey. Elizabeth often said that it was the greatest and hardest thing she had ever done. She graduated from the University of Colorado at Boulder, majoring in political science. She then moved to Aspen, living out her dream of being a ski instructor and enjoying life in a mountain town. Eventually, she found her way back to Louisiana, where she attended LSU, excelling in accounting coursework. She worked for Ernst & Young in New Orleans, before returning to Baton Rouge and using her considerable sales skills in several businesses. Elizabeth was an athlete and an excellent tennis player, as well as a big LSU sports fan. Her fashion sense was top-notch and she was always available to help her mom and sister with any fashion emergencies! Most of all, Elizabeth was a kind and giving person, continually willing to go the extra mile to help with friends and relatives, with other's children, and whatever her parents needed. She became a special "Lizzie" to many kids in her life and loved them with all her heart. She left the world too soon and will be greatly missed. Elizabeth is survived by parents Louis Jr ("Buddy") & Julianne Thompson Bonnecaze of Baton Rouge, sister Lea Bonnecaze and family of Jackson Hole, WY, brother Louis Bonnecaze, III of Baton Rouge, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. A memorial service will be held at the Unitarian Church of Baton Rouge on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in memory of Elizabeth to Episcopal High School Scholarship Endowment Fund, 3200 Woodland Ridge Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA 70816; University of Colorado-Boulder, Office of Advancement, Political Science Department, 914 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80309-0095; or the Unitarian Church of Baton Rouge, 8470 Goodwood Boulevard, Baton Rouge, LA 70806.

Dorsey, Wilmert 'Mane'

Wilmert Dorsey of Port Allen passed away January 7, 2026. A native of Rosedale, he was a devoted husband to Editha; father of Tyrone, Rodney (Shakia), Damon (Tameka), and Derwin; LSU retiree and US Army veteran.

Gavin, Jeanne Marie

Born in New Orleans, Jeanne Marie Landry Gavin was a free spirit with a love for art and beauty. She earned a Bachelor of Arts from ULL and a Master of Arts from ASU before spending 32 years with the IRS and later founding her own accounting firm, JLG Services. Though hardworking, Jeanne loved life—gardening, cooking, travel, wine, and making people laugh with her unforgettable joy. She adored time with her grandson, Gavin. Jeanne is survived by her children Hera, Michael, and Matthew; grandson Gavin; sister Jewell Kidder, nieces Aimee (Oleg) Yatsenko, Allison (Bryan) Tuck and Elise Shelton Daly; and her brother-in-law, Robert Shelton. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ashton and Emma Landry, sister Jolie Shelton, and nephew Thomas Shelton. A visitation will be held on January 18th from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm at The Guru, located at 1857 Government Street in Baton Rouge. A celebration honoring Jeanne's life will follow from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

Green, Mary Lee

Charbonnet, Paul Gibert

Paul Gibert Charbonnet III died January 3, 2026, in Asheville, North Carolina, after a nine-year battle with cardiac sarcoidosis. Born in New Orleans in 1947, he later moved to Baton Rouge, where he met his wife, Shirley, and together raised three children.A standout high school athlete, Paul found his true calling after transferring to the University of Akron and discovering computers. In 1989, he and Shirley founded Investors FastTrack, which grew into a successful software and data company known for helping users improve their financial lives.Paul believed in learning, working hard, and living on your own terms. He could talk to anyone, made complicated things feel simple, and offered opportunities freely.He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul G. Charbonnet Jr. and Barbara Alice Hunter, and his brother, Christopher Charbonnet. He is survived by his wife, Shirley Charbonnet; his children Paul IV (Sarah), Daniel (Sara), and Camille Charbonnet; his grandchildren Alexandra and Dolly; his siblings Laura C. Smith, Barbara Charbonnet, and Hunter N. Charbonnet Sr.; and numerous nieces and nephews.A Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, January 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., with visitation at 10:00 a.m., at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 12424 Brogdon Ln, Baton Rouge, LA 70816.

Mary Lee Moore Green,85 years of age, Of Donaldsonville, Louisiana peacefully passed away to her heavenly home on January 5th,2026 at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Hospital. She was born on June 10th, 1940, in New Orleans, Louisiana. She graduated from Lowery High school and went on to graduate from The Southern University and became a beloved School teacher. She married the love of her life Walter (Daddy Green) Green in 1962. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother. Who loved on her family and friends. She will be truly missed. Survived by daughter, De' Ette Green and Brother, Spurgin Moore Jr (Joe). There will be a visitation at St. Catherine of Sienna Catholic Church, 421 St. Patrick St., Donaldsonville, 9: 00A.M, On Saturday January 17,2026 until Mass of Christian burial at 11:00 A.M, Celebrated by Rev. Raphael Asika. Interment to follow at Ascension of our lord Catholic Mausoleum

Guitreau, Percy Richard

Percy Richard Guitreau, born in French Settlement 4/23/1936, passed away on 1/13/2026 in Denham Springs. A funeral service will be held on Saturday 1/ 17/26 at St Joseph Catholic Church in French Settlement, Visitation begins at 9:00 AM, funeral service at 11:00 AM. Burial to follow in church cemetery.

Heckman, David Henry

David H. Heckman,born March 19, 1937, passed

away peacefully on Saturday, January 10, 2026,at the age of 88. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Alice Avers Heckman, and by his parents, Clarence and Selma Heckman. David graduated from The Ohio State University with a degree in Chemical Engineering and enjoyed a long career which concluded at Exxon, retiring as Manager of Maintenance. A dedicated member of Trinity Lutheran Church, he took pleasure in serving and leading within the congregation. Outside of work and church, David loved golfing. He served for many years as a marshal at Webb Golf Course, loved playing bridge,and was an avid reader. He is survived by his wife, Mary Heckman; his children Drew Heckman (Cathy), John Heckman (Tammy), Tim Heckman (Mary), Heather Hollis (Jeff), and Dinah Orr (Clint); grandchildren Blake Hollis (Natalie) and Grant Hollis (Kelsey) of Louisiana, 8 additional grandchildren across the United States, and 11 great_grandchildren. He is also survived by his siblings Don Heckman (Rena) of Atalissa, IA; C. Luther Heckman (Ruth) of Columbus, Ohio; and June Smedley (Bob) of Odessa, FL. Family and friends are invited to attend a funeral service to be held at Trinity Lutheran Church, 15160 South Harrell's Ferry Road, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70816 on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 10:00 AM. Visitation will be held from 9:00 AM until service time. Light refreshments will be served following the funeral service. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church, 15160 South Harrell's Ferry Road, Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70816.

Ioppolo, Dr. Anthony Sebastian

ways by his side. His many hobbies and interests included hunting, shooting sports, ham radio, remotecontrolled helicopters and airplanes, reading, automobiles, and numerous forms of collecting. Above all, he was a relentless seeker of knowledge who delighted in learning something new every day. Dr. Ioppolo was married to his devoted wife, Susan Harriet Ioppolo, in October 1977. Together they built a life grounded in love, family, faith, and shared adventure. He was a constant source of wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering support to those he loved. He is survived by his wife, Susan; their three children, Jason Mathew Ioppolo and his fiancée Christi Rehage of Prairieville Louisiana, Anthony Michael Ioppolo and his fiancée Lora Rogers of Pinehurst North Carolina, Julie Marie Plaisance and her husband, David Plaisance of Baton Rouge Louisiana; his four cherished grandchildren, Jude, Elizabeth, Alexandra, and Piper; and his sister, Adrienne Wilkens of Islandia New York and her daughter Christine Gill of Miller Place New York. Dr. Ioppolo was a faithful member of St. Jude Catholic Church on Highland Road in Baton Rouge. Visitation will be held at St. Jude Catholic Church on January 16 from 9:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by a Memorial Mass. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Lustgarten Foundation to support pancreatic cancer research. Dr. Anthony Sebastian Ioppolo leaves behind a legacy of intellectual rigor, compassion, service, and an unquenchable love of learning. Most of all, he will be remembered as a loving husband, devoted father, and proud grandfather, whose impact will endure in the lives of his family, patients, colleagues, and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Jackson, Gwendolyn Dr. Anthony Sebastian Ioppolo, beloved and devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, brother, physician, attorney, scholar, and lifelong learner, passed away peacefully at his home on January 8, 2026, while courageously undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Dr. Ioppolo was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony Mario Ioppolo and Clelia Ioppolo. In January 1978, he moved to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, a city that would become his lifelong home and the center of his professional legacy. Dr. Ioppolo earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., and went on to graduate from Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston. He completed his neurosurgical training in New York City, serving as Chief Resident of Neurosurgery under Dr. Joseph Ransohoff at NYU Medical Center and Bellevue Hospital—an achievement that reflected both his academic excellence and leadership. In January 1978, he joined Neuro Medical Center in Baton Rouge, where he practiced with distinction for decades. He later founded Advanced Spine Institute and Neuro Spinal Consultants, expanding access to specialized spinal and neurosurgical care across Louisiana. He also served for many years as Medical Director for the Louisiana Workers' Compensation Corporation, where his expertise, integrity, and fairness were widely respected. Never satisfied with mastering only one discipline, Dr. Ioppolo pursued law later in life, graduating from Southern University Law School in 2009. He found great enjoyment in debate, depositions, and the intellectual rigor of the legal profession, blending medicine and law with rare proficiency. Before moving to Baton Rouge, Dr. Ioppolo obtained his pilot's license, and later also earned his captain's license, reflecting his love of aviation and the water. He cherished traveling with his family, particularly on ski trips and visits to national parks—moments he valued deeply as a husband, father, and grandfather. A profound lover of animals, he raised and cared for a variety throughout his life, including an assortment of farm animals, dogs, and cats. During his final years his faithful German shepherd, Wolfgang, was al-

Gwendolyn Jackson, age 71, a resident of Zachary, Louisiana, peacefully transitioned on Sunday, January 11, 2026. A Visitation will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026, at Hall's Celebration Center, located at 9348 Scenic Highway, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, from 9:00 a.m. until the Funeral Service begins at 10:00 a.m. Entombment will follow at Heavenly Gates Cemetery. Services are entrusted to Hall Davis and Son Funeral Services.

Jolla, Gladys Brown

Gladys Beatrice Brown Jolla of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, entered her Heavenly rest on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. She was born on January 15, 1937, in Alco, Louisiana, to the late Roy Brown and Mildred Washington Brown. She was a devoted mother to Monica Jolla Jackson (Rodney) and will be lovingly remembered by her sisters, Linda Fields and Gwendolyn Diane Friar (Leon); her godchildren, Cary Lynn Clark Hollins and Jasmine Grover; her sisters-in-law, Alice Clay, Wilma Jolla, Elnora Randolph, and Mary Jolla; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who will cherish her memory. Gladys was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard Lee Jolla; her parents, Roy Brown and Mildred Washington Brown; and her grandparents, Joe Washington and Ida Johnson Washington. A visitation will be held from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM on 2026-01-16 at Hall Davis & Sons, 9348 Scenic Highway. A celebration of life will be held at 11:00 AM on 2026 -01-17 at Greater Allen Chapel AME Church, 6175 Scenic Highway.

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What La. voters need to know before the new party primaries Election after election, we advise Louisiana voters to inform themselves on the candidates’ backgrounds and platforms. This year, we offer an additional assignment: Learn how to vote for the candidates of your choice under drastically changed rules, or risk being denied that opportunity. The 2026 congressional elections — including U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy’s high-profile bid for reelection — will be the first to happen under a 2024 Louisiana law that instituted party-specific primaries and runoffs for some but not all public offices. In addition to federal elections, lawmakers included contests for the state Supreme Court, the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Public Service Commission. Therefore, two special elections to fill vacancies — created when Supreme Court Justice Will Crain became a federal judge and BESE member Paul Hollis joined the Trump administration — will also happen under the new rules. We are glad to see Secretary of State Nancy Landry’s office taking a proactive approach to educating voters with TV ads and videos and other information available on the state’s geauxvote.com website. The switch from the familiar open primary system “will change the way millions of state residents cast their ballots,” according to a useful new guide from the Public Affairs Council of Louisiana, or PAR, which lays out who can now vote in which elections. Here are some of the changes. In the elections affected, registered Democrats and Republicans can only vote in that party’s primary. The 27% of voters who are registered as “no party” can pick a primary, but cannot vote for, say, a Democrat for the U.S. House and a Republican for the U.S. Senate until the fall general election. Voters registered in a smaller party, such as Green or Libertarian, cannot take part in the primary process. We worry that this will cause confusion at the polls, even after the Legislature last year solved one problem by eliminating the “Independent” party, which some voters likely inadvertently joined when they meant to register as “no party.” So we urge everyone to check their registration and make any changes they want ahead of the listed deadlines. Party primaries are scheduled for May 16, with runoffs on June 27 if nobody in the first round tops 50%. General elections will still take place in the fall, but in many instances, the key decisions will be made by primary voters well ahead of Nov. 3. So what’s the point of adding all these complications? The politicians behind the changes, led by Republican Gov. Jeff Landry but also including some influential Democrats, have long sought a system that would produce candidates who are more ideologically in tune with their party bases. Honestly, in our polarized political system, we don’t see that as a plus, and nor do we believe many Louisiana voters do. Still, these are the rules, at least for now. And voters would be wise to learn them, to make sure that their voices will be heard.

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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

The fallout from Venezuela will be unending

Look at who profits from anti-immigrant ad campaign As the New Orleans area endures immigration raids already underway under the Department of Homeland Security’s “Operation Catahoula Crunch,” it’s becoming clear that the crisis isn’t only on our streets — it’s also in how DHS is spending our money. Under Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s watch, the agency has funneled at least $220 million into a “Stronger Border, Stronger America” ad blitz, sidestepping normal oversight and directing massive contracts to politically connected insiders. One of the biggest winners is People Who Think, LLC, the Mandevillebased ﬁrm run by Jay Connaughton. His company has reportedly pulled in about $77 million from this campaign — an astonishing sum for work that amounts to promoting and sanitizing the very immigration operations now tearing through our region. Connaughton isn’t just any vendor; he’s a longtime Republican political operative with deep ties to high-proﬁle campaigns in Louisiana and beyond.

Let’s be clear: This isn’t what public service looks like. Bypassing competitive bidding under a ﬂimsy “national emergency” waiver to hand huge federal contracts to friends and political allies is exactly the kind of backroom dealing that erodes public trust. And doing it while those same ads push a narrative designed to justify aggressive enforcement in immigrant communities like ours crosses a serious ethical line. These raids are already inﬂicting fear and harm on families across southeast Louisiana. Meanwhile, a select few are cashing in — with taxpayer dollars — to produce propaganda that makes those raids easier to sell. New Orleans deserves transparency, accountability and responsible governance. What we’re getting instead is a multimillion-dollar political grift dressed up as public information. We should all be calling it what it is — and demanding immediate oversight.

The United States captured Venezuelan President Nicholas Maduro and his wife and removed them from Venezuela. While the war on drugs is something every country should continue to fight, the fact that a sitting president of a foreign country was kidnapped is alarming. The justification for capturing Maduro is the so-called “Kerr-Frisbie doctrine.” According to this controversial doctrine, it does not matter how a suspect is brought before a U.S. court. A trial can go ahead, even if it results from an unlawful armed intervention or abduction, provided the suspect has not been severely tortured in the process. By his actions, Trump has now authorized China to invade Taiwan, Russia to complete its takeover of all of Ukraine and signaled to Greenland, Mexico, Panama and Cuba that their countries are the next targets. It should be noted that Trump has previously ordered military strikes on targets in Yemen, Syria, Iraq, Somalia, Nigeria and Iran. Europe is right to worry that the United States will no longer support them in their fight against aggression by Russia. Congress, as usual, will do nothing more than demand briefings and schedule hearings. The briefings will be given to the Republicans only, who will then support the move as necessary and cancel the hearings. The real reason for invading Venezuela is to take over the oil production. The only question remaining is which one of Trump’s children will be put in charge of “rebuilding” the oil infrastructure in Venezuela and how much money the Trump family will make in the process.

JESSICA COGAN New Orleans

Mayor-president’s address should be open to all I was dismayed to ﬁnd out that only members of the Rotary Club were allowed to attend Mayor Sid Edwards’ State of the City address. My wife called Drusilla Place and was told that only members were allowed in. This should be open to the public and free for all to attend. I wanted to hear the entire speech, not just the clips shown on television. Also, I wanted to hear the inﬂection in his voice and see the body language as he addressed some of the challenges in Baton Rouge and East Baton Rouge Parish, which

cannot be obtained by reading the speech. Hopefully in the future, this speech will be much more transparent and open for all to hear. I have to question why the Rotary Club was chosen over other good local organizations. Additionally, I firmly believe that the mayor-president’s office needs to be two different offices so that Baton Rouge can have someone focused solely on Baton Rouge, like Baker, Central, St. George and Zachary all have.

GREG TENHUNDFELD Baton Rouge

DANIEL NODURFT Harahan

Black bear hunt nothing to be proud of There were conservation efforts to help bring back the Louisiana black bear from their endangered status so that hunters could kill them. How noble. Ironic that lottery fees to kill these bears are applied to monitor them so that there will be enough to ensure availability to destroy them. Deron Santiny posed with a 696-pound black bear he killed in

Redistricting threats fall flat in Indiana

2024, looking so proud of himself. If he didn’t have a gun, that bear could have wiped him out with one slap. Hunters posing with their “trophies” appear to think they are so macho and talented for shooting a bullet. The only creature with dignity is the one not breathing.

It looks like the president’s attempt to have the Indiana Senate pass his redistricting bill has proven once again that folks do not mind being bribed, but they do not like being blackmailed.

DENISE VERRET Breaux Bridge

DAVE MEEKS New Orleans

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ARNESSA GARRETT STEPHANIE GRACE WILL SUTTON QUIN HILLYER FAIMON ROBERTS

The Advocate ■ theadvocate.com ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ 5B

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COMMENTARY La. officials should block Trump’s conquest of Greenland For the nation’s good, House Speaker Mike Johnson and Majority Leader Steve Scalise should act to make sure Gov. Jeff Landry’s weird new job related to Greenland involves only peaceful diplomacy. All three Louisianans now are in position to affect the fate of this semi-independent nation, as we will soon discuss. Quin To be clear, GreenHillyer land would be a great addition to the United States, with its mineral wealth and its increasingly important geopolitical location. For the right price, it would be terrific to buy the island from Denmark, thus adding territory equal to the whole swath of this nation from Texas through New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, Nevada and California. This only applies, though, if Greenland’s 57,000 residents actually vote to join the United States. Last I checked, our nation was founded on the principle that the only legitimate sovereignty comes via the consent of the governed. Repeat: The only legitimate authority. Everything else is criminally in violation of unalienable rights. The very idea of taking an entirely unthreatening territory by force should be anathema, especially when the territory in question is an ally and when an invasion would so enrage almost every other U.S. ally that it essentially would end the greatest peacekeeping alliance in history, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization. It could even lead to warfare against those allies — literally — while Russia and China would see the chance for all sorts of mischief while the Western world descended into chaos. It would take a lunatic — and one with a dark and benighted soul, at that — to lead the United States down that path. That’s why if Landry’s yet-to-bedefined role is akin to that of Robert Livingston and James Monroe in negotiating the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, then that would be wonderful. But if he is being used as an avatar for military adventurism, completely unwarranted by any action of Greenland’s, that would be unconscionable. This is where his fellow Louisiana Republicans, Johnson and Scalise, have not just a role but a responsibility. Actually, they have not just one but two levers of power. The first is to publicly insist that ab-

Pituffik Space Base is located in Greenland. sent hostilities or emergency (during which a president’s role as commanderin-chief gives him great leeway to respond), the ordinary requirements of the Constitution and statutes both apply. Namely, only Congress, not the president, can declare war. To be clear, an invasion of Greenland is no mere police action that a president can do on his own. By every standard of human decency, an invasion of a nonhostile nation only for conquest requires an actual declaration of war. Johnson and Scalise should lead a nearly unanimous Congress to pass a resolution saying such an invasion would be unapproved and thus unconstitutional. Second, and even more authoritatively, Congress could prohibit President Donald Trump from spending a single nickel to carry out an invasion. The Constitution gives Congress the power of the purse. Not a penny can be spent without appropriation (or other sort of spending approval) from Congress. Granted, current military appropriations leave lots of wiggle room for the president to act on his own authority. On the other hand, if Congress passes a law that speciﬁcally prohibits the president from spending money on a military incursion into Greenland — and then, by two-thirds vote, overrides any veto Trump might issue — then Trump would be taking blatently illegal action if he goes ahead with it. This is not debatable: If, by law of

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JIM WATSON

the land, funds are prohibited from being spent for any purpose, then not even the president can violate that law. In 1986-87, President Ronald Reagan easily could have been impeached and removed from office if he had used appropriated tax dollars, against explicit prohibitions in law, to support anti-Communist war-fighters in Central America. (That’s why aides going rogue funneled money from arms sales to Iran instead.) This threat to Greenland is no joke. Trump reportedly already has ordered his military chieftains to draw up an invasion plan. And European nations are already considering putting boots on the ground to deter the U.S. To stop the madness, Congress should pass both a resolution declaring that Trump has no power to act and a bill specifically withholding all funding for any such action. And do it very, very soon. It is long past time, anyway, for Congress to stand up as a coequal branch of government. No more important occasion could be imagined than one where Congress can insist on not ending the NATO alliance and thus handing a massive benefit to the mass murderers who run Russia and China. Come on, Messrs. Johnson and Scalise: Find some backbone. Now. Email Quin Hillyer at quin.hillyer@ theadvocate.com

We need a $1.5 trillion defense budget annual spending of all non-U.S. NATO Finally, the United States will follow countries. The percentage increase through on its NATO commitments. would be highest since the KoThat’d be the cheeky interpretation of President Donald rean War and double the biggest Trump’s announcement, via annual increases of the Reagan Truth Social, that he wants the years. U.S. defense budget to be $1.5 “We still talk about the Reagan trillion. This would represent buildup,” Secretary of War Pete a stunning 50% increase over Hegseth said in a speech last Rich the current budget and put the month, “and my kids and yours Lowry U.S. right around 5% of GDP, will someday talk about the the target level that NATO Trump buildup.” countries recently adopted at Trump’s The Trump proposal would not just insistence. be a down payment on that promise, The details and follow-through will but a big step toward fulfilling it. matter, but on its own terms, the Trump If our military is highly proficient — declaration is of epic significance. as demonstrated in the Venezuela raid Such a historic buildup would meet — it also doesn’t have the materiel to the moment — it’s never made sense wage a protracted major war. that the U.S. would enter a period of Defense analyst Mackenzie Eaglin heightened risk of great power conflict of the American Enterprise Institute at a time when it has difficulty replenhas long been ringing the alarm. She recently noted that during the short ishing its missile stocks. Israel-Iran war, we fired 150, or oneIt would match the predilections quarter, of our THAAD missiles, exof a president who enjoys throwing his weight around. If Trump wants to ceeding our annual purchase rate by speak loudly and carry a big stick, it three times. requires the resources to build and In the Red Sea, the Navy fired more maintain the stick. Tomahawks in January 2024 than it And it would match his vision of a bought in all of 2023. world-class military. You can’t have a These shortfalls, as Eaglin points Golden Dome — Trump’s project for out, are especially disturbing when an enhanced missile defense — or a compared to the building capacity of Golden Fleet — his notion of a nextour adversaries. Whereas the Russians generation navy — without a Golden make more than 300,000 artillery shells Defense Budget. a month, we make only 40,000 155mm The scale of spending contemplated shells. “Beijing builds six naval comhere is truly astounding. A $500 billion batant ships,” she writes, “for every 1.8 increase would roughly match the total ships the U.S. builds.”

Even The New York Times — not known for beating the drums for more defense spending — devoted a splashy editorial last month to the sorry state of our military-industrial base. In his new book, “War and Power,” scholar Phillips Payson O’Brien relates how wars between great powers are usually not won by brilliant battle plans, or by the commitment or proficiency of the troops. Rather, it is productive capacity — and the ability to degrade that of the enemy while maintaining or increasing your own — that makes the difference. The Nazis weren’t going to win the Battle of Britain when the Brits were producing twice as many aircraft as Hitler. On top of this, a nation needs to make shrewd choices about what it is building (the Nazis also had the wrong planes for the Battle of Britain — bombers with payloads that were too small and fighters with limited range). The U.S. needs to make sure that it is not overinvesting in the weapons systems of the past, although a defense budget on the scale that Trump is discussing would relieve some pressure from these choices. We could very well have our traditional subs and jet fighters, and our cutting-edge drones, too. Trump’s taste for gilding everything can be over the top. It’d be a national service, though, if he manages to make the U.S. defense budget golden. Rich Lowry is on X, @RichLowry.

“The anti-ICE crusade seems to have spawned a corps of amateur warriors who believe they can stick it to law enforcement officers without consequence.”

The prime of tough-guy progressivism On Saturday, Larry Krasner, the elected Democratic district attorney of Philadelphia, posted a photo of himself on social media. It was a black-and-white picture of a sternlooking Krasner in a dark suit, one hand to his sunglasses. At the bottom of the photo, in all caps, was “FAFO,” which of course stands for “f*** around and find out.” The accompanying message said, “To [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] and the National Guard: if you commit crimes in Philadelphia, we will charge you and hold you accountable to the fullest extent of the law.” Made in the context of the Minneapolis shooting, the post was part of a new wave of toughguy progressivism in which state and local Democratic Byron officials around the country apYork parently hope to intimidate the federal government over the enforcement of federal immigration law. “Get the f*** out of Minneapolis,” said the city’s Democratic mayor, Jacob Frey, addressing his comments to ICE. Back in Philadelphia, Krasner’s Democratic colleague, Sheriff Rochelle Bilal, used street slang to threaten ICE: “If any of them want to come in this city and commit a crime, you will not be able to hide. ... You don’t want this smoke, ‘cause we will bring it to you.” Tough-guy anti-ICE talk is, of course, rampant on social media. A search by Grok finds that 100 to 200 X accounts use “F*** ICE” or some variant in their username or bio. Some have it superimposed on their photos. As for social media content, Grok said that “F*** ICE” appears on the site “thousands of times at minimum across X’s history, and very likely tens of thousands when including all capitalizations and slight variations.” That kind of thing is to be expected. You can find somebody saying f*** anything on social media. What is more interesting, and more concerning, is that the belligerence displayed by some in positions of authority has trickled down to street protesters. There, raw anger and combativeness toward law enforcement can have very serious consequences. On Friday, Fox News correspondent Matt Finn rode through Minneapolis with ICE as agents attempted to warn people against obstructing law enforcement. Standing at the driver’s side window, an agent told a woman who had been tracking ICE vehicles, “If I continually see you following us, interfering with us, honking your horn, blocking our cars, you have a very high probability of making a really bad decision and being arrested today, OK?” With what appeared to be a self-satisfied smile, the woman said, “I think I’m making exactly the right decision. Bad decision — that’s funny, coming from you.” Other videos have gone viral in recent months of drivers across the country organizing to block ICE operations. Most have ended without serious incident. But anyone who has been stopped by the police should appreciate the importance of not only not resisting but being cooperative. The anti-ICE crusade seems to have spawned a corps of amateur warriors who believe they can stick it to law enforcement officers without consequence. Maybe they can, maybe they can’t. The most awful consequence occurred with another tough-guy progressive, Rebecca Good, who is the wife of Renee Good, the woman killed in the Minneapolis encounter with ICE. Just look at Rebecca Good in the video taken by agent Jonathan Ross. “U.S. citizen, former f***ing veteran,” Rebecca Good said to Ross. “You want to come at us? You want to come at us? I say go get yourself some lunch, big boy.” A few seconds later, Rebecca Good urged Renee Good to drive away, even after being ordered by law enforcement to get out of the car. Renee Good hit the accelerator, and the toughguy progressive pose led to disaster. Still, at the moment, tough-guy progressivism is itching for a fight. From Larry Krasner to the streets of Minneapolis, resistance warriors have arrayed themselves for battle against federal law enforcement. That’s never a good idea, but they seem to be very excited about it. Given that, it is unfortunately true that the Minneapolis incident will likely not be the last to end badly. Email Byron York at byork@washingtonexaminer.com.

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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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6B ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate Marshall is survived by DEATHS continued from Lunn Anderson, Eleanor Raye

Eleanor Raye Lunn Anderson, of St. Amant, Louisiana, passed peacefully on January 4, 2026, at age 87. Eleanor was born on October 23, 1938. She grew up in Hammond and raised her family in St. Amant. Eleanor is survived by her children, Michael Anderson (Sabrina), Mark Anderson (Yvette), Susan Anderson Zeringue (Wayne), and Darren Anderson; her grandchildren, Brandon Anderson, Sr. (Kara), Abigail Anderson Lejeune (Joshua), Wayne G. Zeringue III "Jack" (Amy), and Claire Zeringue; and her great-grandchildren, Brandon Jr., Bailey, Anderson, Adaline, Georgia, Blair, and Wyatt. She is also survived by her brother, Butch Lunn. Eleanor was predeceased by her parents, Juanita and Raymond Lunn, Sr., and by her siblings, Patricia (Healy) Robertson, Cynthia Miller and Craig Lunn. Eleanor is remembered for her kindness, optimism, wit, and caring nature. Following graduation from Charity Hospital School of Nursing, Eleanor served the River Parishes community as a Registered Nurse, Director of Nursing and as a teacher for aspiring nursing students. Eleanor utilized her business judgment and savvy in managing multiple family businesses, including a home health care agency, sugarcane farming operations, and printing and advertising companies. She served her community through volunteer work with the Chamber of Commerce, including as President, and in other leadership roles. Above all, Eleanor loved her beautiful home in St. Amant, often drinking coffee on her patio overlooking oak trees and wildflowers, and sharing memories with loved ones. In her later years, Eleanor lived in Convent, assisting her son Mark with his hospitality operations. The family thanks her caregivers in Convent and at Chateau de Notre Dame for their exceptional care and kindness. A memorial service will be held on January 16, 2026 at Holy Rosary Church in St. Amant, with Visitation at 11:00 a.m., and Liturgy of the Word at 12:00 p.m. Private interment will follow in Waldheim Cemetery where Eleanor will rest in peace with her parents and family.

McBride, Marshall

his beloved wife, Kathy McBride of Allen, Texas; his sons, Mickey McBride of Allen, Texas, Cameron McBride of Allen, Texas, and Tony Urdiales; Jean and Carlos Urdiales; and his brothers, Carlos Urdiales Jr. and James Urdiales. Marshall will be remembered for his devotion to his family, his commitment to personal growth and education, his athletic grit, and the remarkable life experiences that shaped him. His legacy lives on in all who knew and loved him.

Patterson, Emily Wax

Emily Elizabeth Wax Patterson loving wife, mother, and grandmother, 82 of Baker, LA then lastly Gonzales, LA, passed away on January 11, 2026. Born in 1943 in Baton Rouge, LA, to Willie Wax and Selma Brown. Emily dedicated her life to first her lord and church, her adored husband, her son, and her grandson. She graduated from Denham Springs High School in 1961. Emily worked for the Secretary of State and later moved to the Louisiana Department of Transportation & Development. She loved her job and her extended family at the DOTD. She embraced her faith and love of family with an unconditional love. Emily married the absolute love of her life Robert Wayne "Bob" Patterson Sr., on October 20, 1961. Together they built a home filled with love and support. Emily is survived by her son, Robert "Bobby" (Illa) Patterson Jr; grandson, Zack; step-granddaughter, Tiffany (Todd) Rowell; and step great grandchildren, Nathalie and Kyla (Sebastian); and countless family and friends. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert Wayne "Bob" Patterson Sr; brother, Ted Wax Sr; and her parents. Her legacy is one of unwavering faith, kindness, resilience, and enduring love of faith, family, and friends. A visitation will be held at Rabenhorst Funeral Home & Crematory East, located at 11000 Florida Boulevard, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70815, on January 16, 2026, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. The funeral service will follow at 12:00 pm. Burial will take place at Lusk Cemetery, Weber City Rd, Gonzales, LA, 70737, on January 16, 2026, at 1:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made to Catholic Charities or to animal rescue league of your choice.

Richardson, Jeanette Ann Marshall McBride, age 66, of Allen, Texas, passed away on December 18, 2025. He was born to Percy Fontenot and Jean Badeau on July 22, 1959, in Lafayette, Louisiana. Marshall grew up with a spirit of determination and a deep love for both learning and athletics. He attended Broadmoor Senior High School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and went on to pursue higher education at Auburn University. His academic journey continued at Southeastern Louisiana University, Arizona State University, Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, Texas, and The University of Texas at Tyler. Marshall valued education immensely and remained a lifelong learner. Athletics were also a defining part of Marshall's life. He played college football at both LSU and Auburn University, where he developed lifelong friendships and lasting memories. His talent on the field led him to play professionally in Canada for the Regina Roughriders, as well as semi-pro football for the Lafayette Angels. Before pursuing his education and football career fully, Marshall honorably served two years in the 101st Airborne Division of the United States Army. His adventurous spirit later took him across the globe, working for seven years as an offshore oil driller—a role that fueled his love of hard work, travel, and challenge.

Jeanette Ann Richardson, age 85, a lifelong resident of St. Amant, Louisiana, was born on January 11, 1940, and entered eternal rest on January 10, 2026. She was welcomed home by her Lord and Savior and reunited with her beloved husband of 55 years, John Thomas "J.T." Richardson, in time to celebrate her 86th birthday. Jeanette lived a full, faithful, and joy -filled life. She was a dedicated member of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in St. Amant and an active member of the Catholic Daughters. Her faith guided her daily life and was reflected in her kindness and love for others. She found her greatest happiness in time spent with family and friends, whether playing card games, sharing meals, or laughing together. Jeanette was also an enthusiastic participant at the Ascension Parish Council on Aging, where she was well known for her spirited involvement in costume parties, activities, and good-natured shenanigans that brought smiles to everyone around her. Jeanette is survived by her loving children, Rebecca

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Puckett (Ty) and Michael Richardson, Sr. (Dawn); her grandchildren, Tyson Mire (Leslie), Michael Richardson, Jr. (Jordan), Katelyn Schrand (Cody), Courtney Neeley (Luke), and Kolbi Richardson (fiancé Ryan Robert); and her greatgrandchildren, Rori and Ada Richardson, Anna and Hailey Schrand, Marlowe and Palmer Neeley, and Greyson and Sammie Theriot. She is also survived by her siblings, Gerald LeBlanc (Reba), Gaynell Little (Johnny), Lynn LeBlanc, Shirley Clouatre (Bruce), and Judy Babin (Jim), along with an abundance of loving nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Gilbert and Eva LeBlanc; her husband, J.T. Richardson; her brother, Jimmy LeBlanc; her sisters-in-law, Lois LeBlanc, Myrtle LeBlanc, and Kathleen LeBlanc; and her greatgrandson, Wade Allen Richardson. Visitation will be held at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church in St. Amant on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. until a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Pallbearers will be Gerald LeBlanc, Lynn LeBlanc, Bruce Clouatre, Johnny Little, Ty Puckett, Cody Schrand, Luke Neeley, and Ryan Robert. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jeanette's memory to the Full of Grace Café.

Richard Sr., Joseph B. 'JB'

on August 16, 1953, in New Orleans, La and was a longtime resident of Baton Rouge, La. She was a proud graduate of the Redemptorist High School Class of 1971. And, now, she went off to LSU University, earned and achieved a Certified Public Accountant Degree in 1974. She was on the dean/honor list each year during her college education. She then entered the job market and worked for several different corporations and from then on, she entered the corporate world and even opened her own CPA Firm. Beverly was a CPA for 52 years. Beverly enjoyed playing racquetball and working out for many years. She is survived by her brothers, Michael J. Ryall and David Ryall (Wife, Ginger); of Monterey, La, her nephews; Michael J. Ryall Jr. and Charles A. Partin III (Wife Kelli), Jason M. Partin (Wife Danielle), Cody Beard; and her nieces Kobi L. Ryall and Brandi and husband, Josh Currey; cousins; Great Nephews and Great Nieces. She is preceded in death by her parents James W. Ryall sr. and Beverly H. Ryall, brother James W. Ryall Jr, sisters Jane and Mary Ann Ryall. Paternal grandfather and grandmother James L. Ryall and Orelline Schexnaildre Ryall and maternal grandfather and grandmother John F Honold and Amella Mevran Honold. Relatives and friends are invited for a memorial service at Rabenhorst Funeral Home, 825 Government St Baton Rouge, La 70802 on Friday January 16, 2026 for a visitation beginning at 5:00PM until 9:00PM. Visitation will continue on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at 9:00AM until 11:00AM. And a burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery, 5190 Canal Blvd. New Orleans, La. "She ain't heavy, She's our sister"

Serf, Annie Lee Joseph B. "JB" Richard, Sr. passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, January 12, 2026, at the age of 98. JB was a retired process operator at Exxon Plastics and was a longtime member of St. Gerard Majella Catholic Church. He was a master craftsman in carving and woodworking; building, carving and transforming wood into beautiful works of art. JB enjoyed giving "a showing" of his work as much as the creation process itself and writing poetry. JB and Grace, his wife of 64 years, dedicated their lives to setting a wonderful example of devotion to the Catholic faith and their family. He was a Navy veteran of World War II serving in the Philippines. JB is survived by his children, Joseph B. "Chip" Richard, Jr. (Michelle), David R. Richard (Ann), Carl E. Richard, Sr. (Brenda), Ann R. Perrin (Jerry), Aubrey L. Richard (Valerie), James E. "Jimmy" Richard (Lori) and Deanne Richard; grandchildren, Joseph B. Richard, III, Keri N. Richard, Rob Murray, Monika Harris, Todd Jackson, Carl E. Richard, Jr., Janelle Verbois, Jerry Perrin, Jr., Kathy Blanchard, Amy Guillory, Amanda Rufini, Emily Landry, Brooke Richard, Carter Richard, Cameron Richard, and Grace Richard; he is also survived by numerous great- and great-greatgrandchildren. JB is preceded in death by his wife, Lillian Grace Richard; daughter, Mary Virginia Richard; and 10 siblings. Visitation will be at St. Gerard Majella Catholic Church, 5354 Plank Rd., Baton Rouge, LA, on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 10am until the Mass of Christian Burial at 12pm. Burial and reception will immediately follow at Greenoaks Memorial Park. Family and friends are invited to sign the online guestbook at www.greeno aksfunerals.com

Ryall, Beverly Ann

Ms. Annie Lee Serf transitioned peacefully into eternal rest on Sunday, January 11, 2026 in Rosedale, LA. Annie Serf age 78, a resident of Rosedale, LA and native of Red Cross, LA. Visitation will be held on Friday, January 16, 2026 from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m at A. Wesley Funeral Home, 10810 Ventress Drive, Maringouin, LA 70757. Committal Service with Interment beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026 at Rosedale Cemetery, 76535 Center Street, Rosedale, LA 70772. Annie is survived by her five loving children Briant Ross, Michelle Ross, Milissa Ross, Renee Ross, and Rochelle Serf-Whitfield (Lavell); six siblings, Rosie Serf, Jane Hatch, Gene Serf, Buddy Serf, Fredrick Serf, and Ruth Anderson; (13) thirteen grandchildren, (13) great-grandchildren, a lifelong companion, Lafayette Northern and a host of other relatives and friends. Professional services Entrusted to A. Wesley's Funeral Home of Maringouin, La.

Rev. C.P. and Deloris Coleman. She was a 1979 graduate of Baker High School, where she excelled academically and built lifelong friendships. Later she joined the United States Army. After her service, she returned to Baton Rouge and graduated from Southern University A&M College earning a BA in Business Management, with honors. She is survived by her loving husband, Rev. Ray Thomas (Pastor, Little Rising Sun Baptist Church); Children, Yarmicka(Anthony) Martin, LaDarrion (Tirisha) Taylor, Michael Taylor II all of Baton Rouge, LA and Erica (Lionel) Griffin of Thibodaux, La. She knew no bounds, and she took great pride in being their Mother; grandchildren, Alan, Austin, As'Ton, TyVon, Trendon, MikCayla, Mi'Briell, Madison Y., Ja'Niya, Mi'Angel, Ladarrion II, LaDarriona, LaDorrion, Jayden, MadisonG., and Brianna. Great Grandchildren Jade and Denvyr. Visitation from 10 - 11 AM followed by funeral services at 11:00 AM, Friday 1/16/2026 at Allen Chapel AME Church, 6175 Scenic Hwy. Baton Rouge, LA 70805

Ventress Jr., Vernon Mark

Vernon Mark Ventress, Jr., age 91, passed away on Tuesday, January 6th, 2026, in Baton Rouge, LA. He was born in Baton Rouge on October 27th, 1934, to his loving parents, the late Roberta Nawandy Ventress and Vernon Mark Ventress, Sr. Vernon is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Mary Ellen Ventress. He was the dedicated father of his two children, his son, Mark Andrew Ventress and his wife Eva Ventress; and his daughter, Jennifer Lyle Ventress Duval and her husband Jim Duval; and his cherished grandchildren Ava Manuel Ventress, Boston James Duval, Josephine Pace Duval, and

Vivian Lee Battle Ventress. Vernon attended Natchez High School in Natchez, Mississippi, where he was an All-State first-string quarterback during his senior year. He later attended LSU, graduating with a master's degree in education and becoming a member of the Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity. Following his service in the United States Army, from which he received an honorable discharge, Vernon began his professional career as a teacher at Istrouma High School and served as a representative for the Science Research Association (SRA). He later worked for Northwestern Mutual, where he remained until his retirement. He was an active member of many organizations throughout his life, including the Beaver Club Lafayette, St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, the Church of the Ascension, Oakbourne Country Club, the Krewe of Gabriel (where he served as a duke), and Red Lerille's Health Club In Baton Rouge, he was a devoted member of St. Margaret's Episcopal Church. In his spare time, Vernon was an avid golfer and outdoorsman who loved duck hunting, fishing, joke-telling and cruising with his friends. However, his favorite pastime was acorn hunting with his grandchildren when they were toddlers, a joy he treasured deeply. The family would like to extend a special thank-you to Audubon Hospice and heartfelt gratitude to the staff and friends of Barclay House of Baton Rouge, especially in memory care unit, for their compassionate care. Family and friends are invited to attend a memorial service to be held at Greenoaks Memorial Park, 9595 Florida Blvd, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70815 on Saturday, January 17th, 2026. Visitation will take place from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., followed by the service at 12:00 p.m. Inurnment will follow in Greenoaks Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that a donation be made to a charity of your choice.

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

Simon Jr., Joseph

Joseph "Junior" Simon, Jr., native and resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, he entered into eternal rest on January 5, 2026 at the age of 74. Viewing at Miller & Daughter Mortuary on Friday, January 16, 2026 at 9:00 am until Celebration of Life Service at 11:00 am, conducted by Rev. Sam Parker; interment at Louisiana National Cemetery. Survivors include his son, Jano D. Simon(Shanika); bonus daughter, Bridget Stewart; grandchildren, Jakoden, Chandler and Margeaux Simon; siblings, Victor(Barbara), Kelvin, Anita and Warren (Jacqueline)Simon; former spouse, Eugenia Simon; preceded in death by his parents, Audrey and Joseph Simon, Sr.

Thomas, Zelda Coleman

Pick up your cross and follow me, I will prepare a place for you, is a promise of everlasting life, an intimate communion with God in heaven, this is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Beverly Ryall was a very special and devotion loving daughter, sister, and a caring friend firsthand, who passed away on Sunday January 4, 2026, at the age of 72 years old, with her family by her side. Beverly Ann Ryall was born

Please consider donating to local journalism in Louisiana. Your tax-deductible contribution goes solely to funding reporters in the ﬁeld. To donate and to see the work our team has done, visit

LOUISIANAJOURNALISMFUND.ORG Zelda Maria Thomas a resident of Zachary, LA passed away January 11, 2026 at age 64. She was born on August 12, 1961 in Baton Rouge, LA to the late

SPORTS

T H E A D V O C AT E.C O M

Ausberry expects LSU to get ‘physical’ with Kiffin

T h u r s d ay, J a n u a ry 15, 2026

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SHOT TO HEART

BY WILSON ALEXANDER Staff writer

Verge Ausberry saw a lot of the same issues with the LSU football team that fans complained about during the Brian Kelly era. He noticed a lack of physicality and an inability to run the ball without a dual-threat quarterback, two things he believes will change under new head coach Lane Kiffin. It frustrated Ausberry to see a team with those characteristics. The new LSU athletic director likes to study war history, and he has learned an army repeatedly can drop bombs, but until the infantry goes in, he said “you ain’t going to win the war.” He thinks the same idea applies to an offense, comparing the infantry to running the ball. “I always wondered how physical our team was,” Ausberry told The Advocate. “We’re not physical. We’re good, but we’re not physical. We can’t run the ball. And if you can’t run the ball, you can’t win.” Ausberry gave his first extensive interviews Tuesday since he was promoted to full-time athletic director in November after the ouster of Scott Woodward. He shared his perspective on Kelly’s firing, the state of the program and his expectations for Kiffin. Ausberry saw the on-field problems brewing long before LSU fired Kelly in the midst of his fourth season. LSU struggled to run the ball throughout Kelly’s tenure unless it was in the hands of star quarterback Jayden Daniels, who ran for 2,019 yards over two seasons

ä See LSU, page 3C

STAFF PHOTO By HILARy SCHEINUK

LSU forward Marquel Sutton defends against Kentucky guard Jasper Johnson on Wednesday at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center. LSU lost 75-74 to remain winless in SEC play. STAFF PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

LSU president Wade Rousse, left, and athletic director Verge Ausberry, right, pose for a photo with football coach Lane Kiffin after an introductory news conference on Dec. 1 at Tiger Stadium.

Pels ﬁnish off Nets with late plays

Kentucky’s buzzer beater stuns LSU in a game Tigers controlled BY TOYLOY BROWN III Staff writer

Desperation. That is what LSU basketball felt after losing three consecutive Southeastern Conference games as its top player was out injured. LSU held a one-point lead with 1.6 seconds left against Kentucky on Wednesday night, but it allowed a fullcourt, out-of-bounds pass from Kentucky sophomore Collin Chandler to freshman Malachi Moreno, who

Jordan won’t go ‘half off’ on next Saints contract

BY LES EAST

Contributing writer

ä See PELICANS, page 4C

ä See LSU, page 3C

ANALYSIS

Murphy helps lift New Orleans past Brooklyn with 34 points Trey Murphy scored 34 points, Saddiq Bey made a tying 3-pointer and a tiebreaking dunk in the ﬁnal 63 seconds, and the New Orleans Pelicans held off the Brooklyn Nets 116-113 on Wednesday night in the Smoothie King Center. Zion Williamson added 25 points, Yves Missi had 12 points and 12 rebounds, and Bey scored 12 for the Pelicans (10-33), who play at Indiana on Friday. Michael Porter scored 20 points, Egor Demin scored 17, Drake Powell and former LSU star Cam Thomas had 16 each, Day’Ron Sharpe added 15 and Nic Claxton scored 10 for the Nets (11-27) Jeremiah Fears’ 3-pointer pulled the Pelicans even at 57-57 at the outset of the third quarter, and the score was tied three more times before consecutive baskets by Noah Clowney and Powell helped the Nets open a ﬁve-point lead. New Orleans responded with consecutive baskets by Williamson, Fears and Williamson

made a game-winning shot a couple of feet above the free-throw line at the buzzer. The shot gave the Wildcats a 75-74 win at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center on a night when they trailed by as many as 18 points. “We wanted to keep everything in front of us,” LSU coach Matt McMahon said about the ﬁnal play. “They threw the home run pass, and unfortunately, maybe mistimed our jump a little bit there, and the ball got over us, and they hit a tough shot at the buzzer there to win it.

BY MATTHEW PARAS Staff writer

AP PHOTO

Cam Jordan

Cam Jordan said he needed to talk with his wife, Nikki, before deciding whether to play in 2026. It was a short conversation. “I said, ‘I would love for you to be in full support,’ ” the New Orleans Saints defensive end said. “She said, ‘You got 100% of support.’ So it was pretty quick.” By the end of the season, it was hardly a question. Jordan demonstrated he could still produce at a high level after recording 101/2 sacks in 2025, something the Saints’ own brass didn’t expect. The only mystery now is whether Jordan and the Saints can hammer out a new contract ahead of next season as the 36-year-old is set to become a free agent in March. “Until they don’t want me anymore, this is where I’ve always wanted to be,” Jordan said. Jordan’s resurgence creates an interesting wrinkle for what could be a complicated

negotiation between the defensive end and Saints. A year ago, Jordan took a pay cut of slightly more than $6 million, but he had built-in incentives to earn back some of the money if he performed well. But the dynamic is different now after Jordan earned more than $2 million off incentives alone. Jordan is coming off his best season in years, but he also turns 37 in July. The Saints and Jordan have weeks to sort out the situation. But in the meantime, it shouldn’t be lost that Jordan just put together one of the better “old guy’ seasons in NFL history. Here’s how:

A rare group There have been only 10 instances of a player reaching at least 10 sacks in a season after turning 36 since sacks became ofﬁcial in 1982. Jordan became the latest when he brought down Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins in the season ﬁnale.

ä See SAINTS, page 4C

2C ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

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IN BRIEF

BROADCAST HIGHLIGHTS On TV MEN’S COLLEGE BASKETBALL 5 p.m. New Mexico St. at Liberty CBSSN 6 p.m. Oakland at Milwaukee ESPNU 7 p.m. Coll. of Charleston at Towson CBSSN 8 p.m. Wichita State at FAU ESPN2 8 p.m. Lindenwood at SE Missouri ESPNU 9 p.m. Gonzaga at Washington St. CBSSN WOMEN’S COLLEGE BASKETBALL 5 p.m. Louisville at Notre Dame ACC 5:30 p.m. Vanderbilt at Miss. State SEC 6 p.m. Nebraska at Michigan State BTN 6 p.m. Texas at South Carolina ESPN2

6 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 8 p.m. 8 p.m. 8 p.m.

FROM STAFF AND WIRE REPORTS

Villanova at UConn FS1 Illinois at Michigan PEACOCK Virginia at Duke ACC Oregon at Iowa FS1 Maryland at Southern Cal PEACOCK Alabama at Auburn SEC FIGURE SKATING Noon European championships * E! 2 p.m. European championships E! GOLF 1 p.m. Latin America Amateur ESPN2 6 p.m. PGA Tour: Sony Open Golf 1:30 a.m. DP World: Dubai Invitational ^ Golf

NBA 1 p.m. Memphis vs. Orlando 6:30 p.m. Oklahoma City at Houston 9 p.m. New york at Golden State NHL 6 p.m. Philadelphia at Pittsburgh 8:30 p.m. Toronto at Vegas TENNIS 5 a.m. Adelaide-ATP/WTA 6 p.m. Adelaide-ATP/WTA * taped ^Friday

PRIME PRIME PRIME ESPN ESPN Tennis Tennis

WINTER OLYMPICS

Diversity still an issue, but United States making strides AP sportswriter

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By MORRy GASH

Erin Jackson competes in the women’s 500 meters at the U.S. Olympic trials for long track speed skating at the Pettit National Ice Center on Jan. 4 in Milwaukee.

CHICAGO — The Chicago Cubs added Alex Bregman on Wednesday, ﬁnalizing a $175 million, ﬁve-year contract with the All-Star third baseman. Bregman, a former LSU star, will be formally introduced by Chicago during a news conference on Thursday at Wrigley Field. With Nico Hoerner wearing No. 2 for the Cubs, Bregman will switch to No. 3 with his new team. Chicago is deferring $70 million, which is 40% of the contract. Bregman gets $35 million annually, with $15 million deferred this year and in 2029, $10 million each in 2027 and 28, and $20 million in 2030. His deferred money is due in eight installments each July 31 from 2034-41.

LHP Suárez, Red Sox agree to $130M, 5-year contract

BY TIM REYNOLDS LAKE PLACID, N.Y. — When USA Bobsled and Skeleton unveils its Olympic rosters, the most likely scenario is that either eight or nine women will wind up competing for that federation on the ice at the Milan Cortina Winter Games. Most of those sliders will almost certainly be women of color. By the time the Games open, this could be the most diverse U.S. Olympic winter roster ever assembled. The 2018 U.S. roster for the 2018 Games included 21 athletes of either Black or Asian descent, about 8% of the total; the 2026 team could top that number. There is still obvious potential for far more growth on the diversity front, but some athletes feel that steps are being taken in the right direction. “We’re really doing this,” said U.S. skeleton athlete Mystique Ro, a woman of Black and Korean descent and someone who teamed with Austin Florian to win last year’s world championship in the sport’s mixed event. “The train has left the station. We’re going. And it’s such a surreal feeling. … We’re really making history out here and it’s not slowing down at all.” People of color fill the rosters for non-traditional winter sports nations like Jamaica but most of the dominant teams from European powers — and, to be fair, the U.S. as well — are almost entirely White. Still, some of the top American medal hopefuls at these Olympics will be Black women, and that’s not exactly a new phenomenon — especially in bobsled. Bobsledder Elana Meyers Taylor is a fivetime Olympic medalist and is the most decorated Black athlete in Winter Games history. Kaysha Love is the reigning world champion in monobob, making her the first Black woman to hold that title. Speedskater Erin Jackson, who in 2022 became the first Black woman to win Olympic winter gold in an individual sport, is back for more in 2026. Laila Edwards is a rising star of the powerhouse U.S. women’s hockey team and will be the first Black woman to wear the American sweater on the Olympic stage. “It’s a really big deal,” Edwards said when the roster was unveiled. “Representation matters. In terms of processing it, I think I’m just trying to use it as something that motivates me to be the best role model and person I can be.” It also remains clear that the sports offered as part of the Winter Olympic program seem to come with fewer opportunities for athletes of color. The National Ski Areas Association said in 2024 that, of all guests who visit U.S. ski resorts, about 1% identify as Black. The reasons most commonly cited are cost and accessibility: many winter sports are expensive and ski areas are generally remote. Of the 2,900 or so athletes who competed at the most recent Winter Games in Beijing, the overwhelming majority of them identified White. There was a smattering of non-traditional winter sports nations to see athletes qualify — Ghana, Nigeria and Haiti among them — and the impact that Jamaica’s famed “Cool Runnings” bobsled team had when it debuted at the Olympics a generation ago is still felt today. “I never thought I would be doing this,” said bobsledder Adanna Johnson, who was 17 when she competed for Jamaica at last year’s world championships. “The sport is growing. “There are more opportunities.”

Cubs finalize $175M deal with All-Star 3B Bregman

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By CHARLES REX ARBOGAST

Nebraska coach Fred Hoiberg looks over the court as his son Sam prepares to enter a game against Minnesota at the Big Ten Tournament on March 8, 2023, in Chicago.

Enjoying the ride Hoiberg family trio bringing lots of joy as No. 8 Nebraska has a season for the ages

BY ERIC OLSON AP sportswriter

LINCOLN, Neb. — It’s too early to tell where the Nebraska men’s basketball team will end up, but Fred Hoiberg and two of his sons sure are enjoying it. The Cornhuskers are 17-0, have the nation’s longest winning streak at 21 games and, at No. 8, the program’s highest ranking in 60 years. Talk about family fun. Hoiberg’s son Sam has evolved from a walk-on practice player to one of the Big Ten’s most versatile guards. Sam’s identical twin, Charlie, is in his first year as a graduate manager who, among other things, helps run practices, puts players through individual workouts and produces analytics reports for the staff. “We’re living our dreams right now,” Sam said. “It’s tough to really reflect at midseason because we have so many things to improve on and so many goals to reach, but it has been an amazing experience up to this point.” There are 20 Division I men’s teams whose head coach has at least one son playing for him this season, according to NCAA research. North Texas first-year coach Daniyal Robinson and his son Reece began their journey at Cleveland State last season. “In my mind, there’s no cons,” Daniyal said. “Whether he has a great performance on the court or he doesn’t have a great game, man, that is minute compared to the day to day, being able to spend quality time with him and be there with him where we’re working together to go through whatever adversity we have. And then also share the great moments.” One of those moments happened late in a November game against Eastern Washington when Reece hit a 3-pointer, had a tip-in and made two free throws with nine seconds left to force overtime. UNT won 79-71, and Daniyal said he felt pure joy because his son’s performance loomed so large. “I just remember seeing how proud my dad was after I hit those free throws,” Reece said. “I talked to him in his office after the game, and it made me emotional.” At North Carolina, senior reserve Elijah Davis got his big moment with his father,

ASSOCITED PRESS PHOTO By BONNIE RyAN

Nebraska graduate manager Charlie Hoiberg, right, passes the ball to his twin brother, Nebraska guard Sam Hoiberg, on Tuesday in Lincoln, Neb. The No. 8 Cornhuskers are 17-0. Hubert Davis, in a December blowout of East Carolina. With about 30 seconds left, he launched a 3-pointer from in front of the UNC bench with his dad standing nearby on the sideline. The shot caught all net for his first points with the Tar Heels, and the starters on the bench went wild. “I’m the head coach, so I try to be head coach and not dad,” Hubert Davis said, pausing multiple times to control his emotions. “That was a really awesome, cool moment.” The Hoibergs are the consummate basketball family. Fred was a star player for Iowa State and had a successful run as the Cyclones’ coach. Another son, Jack, was a walk-on at Michigan State and now is a video analyst for the San Antonio Spurs. Fred and Carol Hoiberg’s oldest child, daughter Paige, works in medical device sales in Chicago. Sam and Charlie played high school ball together at Lincoln Pius X. From there, Charlie went to TCU to be a regular student, but Sam wanted to keep playing. Sam didn’t draw much recruiting interest, and he walked on at Nebraska with the idea he would develop his game against better players and look for opportunities to transfer to a lower-level Division I program after a couple of years. A rash of injuries put Sam in position to play significant minutes starting in the second half of the 2022-23 season, and he has started 32 of the past 33 games. He is fourth in the nation in assistto-turnover ratio (5.25 to 1) and tied for first in the Big Ten in steals (35).

Charlie was a TCU student manager for two seasons, interned for his dad in the summer of 2024 and returned in June as a graduate manager, a position designed for aspiring coaches. “It’s been a lot of fun having Charlie part of the program,” Fred said. “He’s been really good for Sam. They share the same DNA, so he has a way of being able to get in his head probably better than I can as a coach and father just because those guys shared a womb together.” Charlie has helped Sam build and maintain confidence, particularly as an offensive player. Sam has doubled his scoring average, to 8.2 points per game, and his shooting accuracy has gone from 43% to 53%. “He’s seen me when I’ve been shooting at the highest level, and he’s seen me when I was the leading scorer on teams and making plays, and he’s there to remind me of that,” Sam said of Charlie. “I work out with him every day, he helps me get the reps and he reminds me a lot about the best I’ve played, and that gives me confidence.” Fred, like Sam, said he hasn’t had time to fully savor the experience of having family with him on the team but knows he will when things slow down. Charlie, on the other hand, is soaking it up. “I’ve taken my moments to sit back and say, ‘Yes, this is great,’ “ he said. “I’m having a great time on top of being with my dad and brother, which is why I wanted to come here in the first place. I get to be with them every single day. I get to go have dinner at my parents’ house with my mom. Life’s great right now.”

Left-hander Ranger Suárez and the Boston Red Sox agreed Wednesday to a $130 million, ﬁveyear contract, a person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press. An All-Star in 2024, Suárez had spent his entire professional career with the Philadelphia Phillies after signing at age 16 in April 2012. The 30-year-old from Venezuela pitched out of the bullpen early on but has been a steady performer and mostly a reliable winner since moving into the rotation exclusively in 2022. Suárez was 12-8 with a 3.20 ERA last season in 26 starts covering a career-high 1571⁄3 innings, then became a free agent for the ﬁrst time and turned down a $22,025,000 qualifying offer from Philadelphia in November.

QB Moore to return to Oregon, skip NFL draft

Oregon quarterback Dante Moore decided to return to the Ducks next season rather than declare for the NFL draft. Moore, 20, announced his decision on Wednesday on ESPN. This season, Moore completed nearly 72% of his throws for 3, 565 yards, with 30 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Oregon finished 13-2. Moore had been forecast to be the second quarterback selected in the NFL draft, behind Indiana quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza. The Ducks are coming off a 5622 loss to Indiana in a College Football Playoff semifinal Friday night. Moore had three crucial turnovers in the first half, leading to three Indiana TDs that gave the Hoosiers a commanding 35-7 lead at halftime.

Ingram, Suh, Donald to enter College Football HOF

Former Saints running back Mark Ingram, the ﬁrst Alabama player to win the Heisman Trophy, and Ndamukong Suh and Aaron Donald, two of the most fearsome defensive linemen of their era, highlight the 2026 College Football Hall of Fame class announced Wednesday. Gary Patterson of TCU and Chris Petersen of Boise State and Washington are among four coaches that will be inducted at the National Football Foundation’s awards dinner in December in Las Vegas. Among offensive players joining Ingram in the hall are Peter Warrick of Florida State and Marvin Harrison of Syracuse. Other coaches who will be inducted are Jim Margraff of Johns Hopkins and Ken Sparks of CarsonNewman.

Detry to join LIV Golf, which is upping purse to $30M

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Thomas Detry of Belgium is joining LIV Golf for 2026, the fifth year for the Saudi-funded league that is increasing its total purse to $30 million. The Tour also got statements from Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm that they’re staying. LIV Golf wrapped up a week of previews — the season starts Feb. 4 in Saudi Arabia — that concluded Wednesday with CEO Scott O’Neil saying he had no problem with Brooks Koepka leaving to go back to the PGA Tour and that those who remained were committed to the league. O’Neil also held out hope the Ofﬁcial World Golf Ranking, which has been reviewing the LIV application for more than six months, will decide whether to include LIV before its season opener.

The Advocate ■ theadvocate.com ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ 3C

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LSU adds former 5-star QB from USC BY WILSON ALEXANDER Staff writer

LSU signed former Southern Cal quarterback Husan Longstreet, the school announced Wednesday, adding a former five-star recruit to the quarterback room as the Tigers rebuild the position before their first season under new coach Lane Kiffin. Also on Wednesday, according to multiple reports, LSU redshirt junior wide receiver Nic Anderson stated he plans to enter the transfer portal. Longstreet was considered one of the top 20 players in the transfer portal regardless of position by multiple recruiting services, and he helped address LSU’s most pressing need by signing Wednesday. LSU did not have a scholarship quarterback returning next season, so within the past four days, it also has signed Arizona State redshirt sophomore Sam Leavitt and Elon redshirt freshman Landen Clark. Longstreet spent his freshman year at USC as the backup to Jayden Maiava, playing only 44 snaps in four games. He completFILE PHOTO COURTESy OF USC ATHLETICS ed 86.7% (13 of 15) of his passes USC quarterback Husan Longstreet throws a pass. for 103 yards and one touchdown

AUSBERRY

Continued from page 1C with the Tigers. An LSU running back never went over 1,000 yards when Kelly was the head coach, even though four starting offensive linemen were drafted last year. “We haven’t run the ball well here at all,” Ausberry said, “and we hid it behind Jayden Daniels. I had been seeing those faults in the foundation. I had been seeing those cracks a long time ago. It was how we won games. We weren’t dominating games. We were just out-athleting people, and we had a quarterback who was the best in the country.” After Daniels left, the rushing offense struggled. It finished 107th and 126th nationally in yards rushing per game the past two seasons, respectively. Ausberry thinks that will change with Kiffin, whose scheme depends on the ability to run the ball. Ole Miss never ranked worse than 44th in the country in rushing offense during his six years with the Rebels. “You’ve got to create that, and it starts in the weight room,” Ausberry said. “Start setting the tone. Start setting the discipline in the program. I think we lost some of that. We lost our toughness, and that’s why you can’t run the ball. Everybody was blaming the running backs. It wasn’t running backs.” Last fall, Ausberry’s concern rose as the season went along. He called LSU’s season-opening win at Clemson “fool’s gold,” skeptical of the preseason hype for both teams. He sensed “something’s not right” after the offense struggled against Louisiana Tech and Florida. A 24-19 road loss to Ole Miss could be withstood, but then came a mid-October loss to Vanderbilt, which finished 10-3 behind Heisman Trophy finalist quarterback Diego Pavia. “We got physically beat,” Ausberry said. “For the first time, I watched us get physically beat at the line of scrimmage. I don’t care how good Vanderbilt is. That should never happen. Vanderbilt should never do that to LSU. It should never happen. And then the wheels start coming off.” A week later, Ausberry walked

LSU

Continued from page 1C “Unfortunately, I couldn’t help get our guys across the finish line there. So, really proud of our players’ response. We got a lot better the last couple days. Just crushed we weren’t able to finish the deal.” Max Mackinnon had 16 points on 4-of-16 shooting and three assists for LSU, and Marquel Sutton chipped in 16 points and six rebounds. The Tigers are 0-4 in SEC play for the first time since the 201213 season. That year, it finished the season 9-9 in the SEC. LSU (12-5, 0-4 SEC) didn’t have standout point guard Dedan Thomas for a fourth straight game because of a lower leg injury. McMahon said after the game that he is still day-to-day and making progress. Instead of freshman Jalen Reece replacing Thomas as a starter, senior guard Rashad King en-

onto the sideline in the fourth quar- right person. It takes the right fit.” Ausberry believes he found the ter of LSU’s 49-25 home loss to Texas A&M. He looked around at a sta- right person in Kiffin, who signed dium that largely had emptied out a seven-year, $91 million deal. The after three losses in the previous LSU search committee vetted othfour games and wondered whether candidates, including Missouri er LSU could bounce back with coach Eli Drinkwitz, but Kiffin Kelly as the head coach, knowing topped the list from the beginning. the schedule didn’t get any easier Ausberry said he didn’t feel comwith road trips remaining against fortable with the idea of hiring Kiffin four years ago when his name Alabama and Oklahoma. “Is the coach and the players came up, but he did this time beconnected?” Ausberry said. “I cause he thinks Kiffin has matured. Going into Kiffin’s first season, thought at that time that he had pretty much lost that connection.” LSU has overhauled the roster, esKelly was fired the next day. He pecially on offense. LSU has added rejected settlement offers of $25 30 transfers as of Wednesday night, million and $30 million, but he said including Arizona State quarterback in a letter to LSU officials that he Sam Leavitt, one of the top players was open to negotiate. Kelly later on the market. And Ausberry exfiled a lawsuit in which he claimed pects Kiffin to hold physical spring LSU intended to fire him for cause. practices, adding: “I don’t think we had one of those in The lawsuit was a long time.” dropped after LSU “This could be could be agreed to fire him a team that could a “This team that could without cause and really get in the pay his full $54 milreally get in the playoffs in his first lion buyout, which playoffs in his year,” Ausberry can be offset if he first year. He has said. “He has the gets another job in tools out there. football. the tools out He has the weapAusberry said he there. ... We’d ons out there to “didn’t get involved in that part of the like to be deeper do it. We’d like to be deeper in some process” when asked in some areas, areas, but I think why LSU attemptbut I think we’ve we’ve upgraded a ed to fire Kelly for lot.” cause. Kelly’s lawupgraded a lot.” With millions yers addressed mulVERGE AUSBERRy, spent on rosters tiple letters to Austhrough NIL and berry and LSU board LSU athletic director, on revenue sharing, of supervisors memLane Kiffin’s team Ausberry said “the ber John Carmouche days of being good as they sought his full buyout. In one, his representa- at everything just can’t exist because tives said Ausberry and LSU execu- the funding is not there.” He has to tive deputy athletic director Julie think about how much money goes Cromer told them Oct. 27 that some to every team. There may come a LSU board members may look into day when LSU has to choose which sports it invests more in — but that the liquidated damages. “We got to pay that note,” Aus- does not apply to football. “The big thing is that buildberry said. “That’s why I hope one day that he gets a job coaching ing with 102,000 people has to be again. That’s important. We’re go- great,” Ausberry said. “If we’re ing to try to help him, tell people not great there, then LSU is not to hire him. You know, he’s a good great, the city of Baton Rouge is not great and the state of Louisifootball coach. “You look at Brian Kelly, Brian ana is not great. You have to be probably wasn’t a fit here. But successful in that building. “That’s not winning a national what he did at Cincinnati, what he did at Notre Dame. I mean, the championship every year, but you guy played in the final games. He’s got to be in the conversation. And been there. It’s not like Brian Kel- I think that’s why we went out ly’s not a good football coach or he and hired a guy like a Lane Kiffin, just forgot how to coach football. somebody who brings that to the No, it’s not that. LSU, it takes the table.”

tered the starting lineup for the first time Wednesday. The Northeastern transfer had 12 points and two blocks. McMahon said Tuesday that a strong first half was crucial against Kentucky. In the Tigers’ previous losses to Vanderbilt and South Carolina, they had to dig themselves out of a 20- and 28-point holes, respectively, in the first half. That message was received as the Tigers led 18-3 with 11:25 remaining in the first half. It gave up 22 first-half points to Kentucky, which tied a season low for firsthalf points allowed. LSU held DePaul to that amount on Nov. 29. Sutton and the LSU defense were responsible for the fast start. The fifth-year Omaha transfer had 11 of the team’s first 19 points and found his 3-point stroke early, burying a pair from beyond the arc as LSU jumped to a 6-0 edge. Sutton was also physical and used his 6-foot-9, 225-pound frame to finish two dunks and pick up five first-half rebounds. He had 14 points as LSU led 3822 at halftime.

The Tigers’ defensive intensity was just as important. The group was swarming to stay in front of ballhandlers and was well-positioned in the gaps. The early standout was King. On Kentucky’s third possession, he blocked an end-of-shot-clock attempt from 3. Not long after, he picked up a steal that thwarted a fastbreak opportunity. LSU didn’t allow Kentucky to make its first field goal until the 15:32 mark, and Kentucky opened the game 1 of 12 from the field. The Wildcats didn’t get their first offensive rebound until 7:56 left before halftime. “The first half, defensive effort by our players, I thought was just phenomenal,” McMahon said. “We were able to help each other out a lot. We were in some combination, man and zone looks.” After Kentucky scored, LSU didn’t relent. It went on a 10-0 scoring run to take a 16-3 lead with 12:15 left in the first half, forcing Kentucky coach Mark Pope to call his first timeout. The timeout didn’t help cool

in games against Missouri State and Georgia Southern. He also rushed 11 times for 76 yards and two scores, showing mobility that could make him an ideal ﬁt for the LSU offensive scheme. He has four more years of eligibility. Longstreet, who is 6-foot and 200 pounds, does not have experience, but there is potential. He was the No. 25 overall recruit and the fourth-best quarterback in the 2025 class coming out of Centennial High in Corona, California, according to the 247Sports composite rankings. He entered the transfer portal last Thursday, and LSU quickly hosted him on a visit that began Saturday. LSU had to find new quarterbacks after the position room was completely emptied at the end of the season. Fifth-year senior Garrett Nussmeier exhausted his eligibility, and sophomore Michael Van Buren and redshirt freshman Colin Hurley entered the transfer portal. Van Buren signed with South Florida, and Hurley transferred to Michigan. Kiffin and his staff are in the process of rebuilding the offense, which averaged 22.8 points per game this season. Only a handful of

starters are set to return, so LSU is assembling the largest transfer class the team ever has signed. Anderson was one of the highestranked transfers available when he left Oklahoma after the 2024 season, but he did not contribute much in his one season with the Tigers, catching 12 passes for 106 yards and two touchdowns. Anderson has one more year of eligibility. With Anderson’s planned departure, the only LSU wide receiver set to return to the team next season is freshman Phillip Wright, who LSU announced would come back in a recent social media post. LSU signed three wide receivers in the 2026 class, and it has added nine more through the transfer portal entering Kifﬁn’s ﬁrst season. Anderson had a breakout season with Oklahoma in 2023 when he caught 38 passes for 798 yards and 10 touchdowns, the most touchdown catches by a freshman in team history. He missed almost the entirety of the next season before playing in 10 games with three starts for LSU. Anderson missed the last three games of the season after suffering a knee injury, but he returned for the Texas Bowl.

Miami high school will celebrate CFP alumni BY TIM REYNOLDS AP sportswriter

ä Indiana vs. Miami, 6:30 P.M. MONDAy, ESPN

MIAMI — Tuesday’s classes at Christopher Columbus High School in Miami have been canceled. There wouldn’t be much learning going on that day. No matter what happens Monday night in the College Football Playoff title game between Indiana and Miami — a game that will be played in South Florida — Columbus will be busily celebrating the sight of alums hoisting the national championship trophy. Thing is, will it be Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the Heisman Trophy winner? Or will it be Miami coach Mario Cristobal? “The kids here, that’s all they’re talking about this week,” said Herb Baker, the school’s longtime athletic trainer known by many in South Florida simply as Brother Herb. Columbus, a Catholic all-boys school that sits about 5 miles from the University of Miami campus and about 25 miles from Hard Rock Stadium — where the game will be played — is a house divided right now. There are Miami fans. There are Mendoza fans. The optimist would say the school can’t lose. The pessimist would say the school can’t win. “It’s a no-lose situation,” said Columbus football coach Dave Dunn — who immediately started wondering when the CFP bracket came out if the stars would align for an IndianaMiami ﬁnal. “You’re really kind of celebrating the success of all of our alums. And to do it on this type of stage is just amazing.” The list of Columbus grads in this game is seven-deep. Indiana has Mendoza at quarterback and his brother, Alberto Mendoza, as the backup. Miami has Cristobal, associate head coach Alex Mirabal, defensive back Bryce Fitzgerald, offensive lineman Ryan Rodriguez and backup quar-

terback Vinny Gonzalez. The kids, the families, they all know each other. Fernando Mendoza, then at Cal, played against Miami last year in what became a wild Hurricanes comeback win. Alberto Mendoza quarterbacked Columbus to a state title in 2023; the ﬁnal TD pass he threw in that game was to Fitzgerald. Fernando and Alberto Mendoza’s father, also named Fernando, was a teammate of Cristobal and Mirabal at Columbus in the late 1980s. If all that wasn’t enough, the Mendoza family home is less than a mile from the Miami campus in Coral Gables — and Elsa Mendoza, the mother of the Indiana quarterbacks, played tennis for the Hurricanes in her college years. Ties that bind, indeed. “It’s always special when you get to play with or against guys that you know or knew growing up, competed against, played on the same teams with,” said Cristobal, whose sons attend Columbus and whose nephew is on the Explorers’ football coaching staff. “At the end of the day, your preparation doesn’t change. Your intensity is always driven up the closer and closer you get to game time and as you go deeper into the season. We all know the brand of football played down here in South Florida is special.” Columbus sits in the area of Miami known as Westchester, and the heavily Cuban-American suburb clearly has divided loyalties right now. Along the fence that separates the school from SW 87th Avenue is a long blue banner, reading “Fernando Mendoza Class of 2022 He15man Winner” — the “15” replacing two letters in “Heisman” is a nod to his Indiana jersey number, and yes, the digits are in the Hoosiers’ crimson.

LSU’s connectedness on both ends. Jalen Reece stole the ball on a drive by Tulane transfer Kam Williams and made a precise outlet pass to Sutton for a fastbreak dunk. Mackinnon, who was coming off a season-high 27 points against Vanderbilt, didn’t get off to a hot shooting start. However, he had the defensive assignment on Otega Oweh, the preseason SEC Player of the Year. The 6-6 Australian guard was defensively sound, making good closeouts and not reaching when driven against. Oweh finished with 21 points on 6-of-13 shooting. Backup center Robert Miller and starting forward Pablo Tamba were also instrumental in stabilizing the defense. Kentucky was 8 of 30 from the field and 2 of 12 from 3 at halftime. The LSU defense didn’t do well restraining Kentucky in the second half. The Wildcats scored 15 points in the first five minutes. The Wildcats trailed 59-54 thanks to their hot 3-point shooting, making 6 of 8 to open the second half

with less than nine minutes remaining. “They went to a smaller lineup with more perimeter shooting on the ﬂoor,” McMahon said. “Guys for them stepped up and hit shots, 8 of 11 from 3 in the second half.” Kentucky took its first lead at 69-68 with just under four minutes remaining after a turnover by King led to a breakaway dunk by Williams. That didn’t last long as Miller responded with a bucket. The sophomore had six points, seven rebounds, two steals and two blocks. When Kentucky had possession in a 72-72 tie, Oweh made a jumper that went in but didn’t beat the shot clock. LSU had a 74-73 advantage after Mackinnon made two free throws and Oweh made just 1 of 2 with 4.5 seconds remaining, but Tamba missed a pair of free throws after rebounding Oweh’s miss. That set up Kentucky’s opportunity to pull off the miraculous win. LSU’s next game is against Missouri at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at the PMAC.

4C ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

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Not shocked, Steelers’ brass prepares for life after Tomlin BY WILL GRAVES AP sportswriter

PITTSBURGH — Art Rooney II sensed Mike Tomlin might be ready for a change. Nineteen years doing any job is a long time, let alone in the white-hot spotlight that comes with coaching the Pittsburgh Steelers. So when Tomlin walked into Rooney’s ofﬁce Tuesday and told his longtime boss he was stepping down after a largely successful run that included one Super Bowl victory, an appearance in another and 19 straight non-losing seasons, Rooney wasn’t shocked. “He was pretty clear about what his intentions were,” Rooney said Wednesday as the Steelers began the process of hiring just their fourth head coach since 1969. “We had a great conversation, and I understood where he was.” Rooney described the impetus behind Tomlin’s decision as “more family-related than football-related” and stressed the team was “certainly willing to make another run at it next year with Mike.” Tomlin went 193-114-2 in Pittsburgh, tied with Hall of Famer Chuck Noll for the ninth most regular-season wins in NFL history. Tomlin arrived in Pittsburgh in January 2007 as a relative unknown 34-year-old defensive coordinator. He left as the longesttenured head coach in major North American professional sports with a resume that will receive strong Hall of Fame consideration of its own, even if he never coaches another game. Whether that happens is anyone’s guess, though Rooney said it was his understanding that Tomlin does not intend to coach in 2026. A future in TV, even if it serves as merely a breather before the

“There will be changes, and we’ll have to all get comfortable with kind of the plans. Whether you call it a ‘rebuild’ or not, I don’t like that word that much. We’ll try to compete Day 1 if we can.” ART ROONEy II, Steelers owner 53-year-old returns to the sideline, could be in the ofﬁng. Rooney did not try to talk Tomlin out of the decision, saying instead that the club is “grateful” for the way Tomlin carried himself both on and off the field during what Rooney described as a “winning era” for one of the league’s most visible franchises. That era, however, ended with the Steelers in a rut. Their seasonending 30-6 loss to Houston in the ﬁrst round of the playoffs on Monday night marked Pittsburgh’s sixth straight one-and-done postseason appearance, all of them by multiple scores. “I can’t explain the more recent history there,” Rooney said. “It’s hard to explain, given the overall track record. Frustrating for all of us, mostly for Mike.” Fans inside Acrisure Stadium didn’t hesitate to voice their displeasure at times this season, chanting “Fire Tomlin!” on multiple occasions, including in the waning minutes against the Texans. Asked whether those playoff failures factored into Tomlin’s decision to walk away, Rooney demurred. He also declined to get

into specifics about what might happen should Tomlin want to return to coaching in 2027. Tomlin exited while still under team control for two more years, with the club holding the option for 2027. During the rare occasions the Steelers have found themselves looking for a head coach, they often have been looking for a certain type. Noll, Tomlin and Bill Cowher were all defensive coordinators in their 30s when Pittsburgh plucked them from relative anonymity. They all left with at least one Super Bowl ring. It’s far too early in the process for the club to start whittling down the field for a job that figures to be among the most coveted of the nine current head coach vacancies in the NFL, considering the Rooney family’s track record of giving coaches ample time to find their footing. “Can I sign up for another Chuck Noll or another Bill Cowher or another Mike Tomlin or somebody that we feel fits that mold? (That) would be great,” Rooney said. Rooney essentially ruled out any of the staff Tomlin left behind — including offensive coordinator Arthur Smith, who has been contacted by Tennessee about its opening — from being a candidate to replace Tomlin, though it’s possible they may have an opportunity to stick around in some capacity if they mesh with the new hire. Whoever takes over will be given the same “the standard is the standard” mandate that Tomlin embraced, though it led to diminishing returns in his final years. “There will be changes, and we’ll have to all get comfortable with kind of the plans,” Rooney said. “Whether you call it a ‘rebuild’ or not, I don’t like that word that much. We’ll try to compete Day 1 if we can.”

STAFF PHOTO By BRETT DUKE

Pelicans forward Karlo Matkovic looks to pass the ball against the Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday at the Smoothie King Center. The Pelicans won 116-113.

PELICANS

Continued from page 1C again to take a 73-72 lead. The lead changed hands nine more times before the Karlo Matkovic converted a three-point play for the Pelicans to tie the score at 87 at the end of third quarter. Brooklyn scored the ﬁrst seven points of the fourth quarter before Williamson scored on a drive for New Orleans’ ﬁrst points of the period. Murphy had nine points and an assist during a 13-2 run that gave the Pelicans a 105-101 lead. The Nets scored the next six points to take a two-point lead. Murphy made a layup to tie the score, and Demin and Bey exchanged 3-pointers to produce another tie. After a Demin miss, Bey rebounded a Murphy miss and dunked to give New Orleans a

SAINTS

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By ADRIAN KRAUS

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Brandin Cooks reacts after a catch during the second half against the Philadelphia Eagles on Dec. 28 in Buffalo, N.y. The Bills are relying on the former Saints receiver in the playoffs.

Ex-Saints WR Cooks makes quick connection with Bills QB Allen BY JOHN WAWROW AP sportswriter

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — Whether it was catching passes from Drew Brees as a rookie in New Orleans or teaming up with Buffalo’s Josh Allen 11 years later, wide receiver Brandin Cooks has stuck to a triedand-tested method in building a quarterback’s trust. The key, Cooks said, is deferring to the quarterback’s direction and preferences when running any given route, rather than the other way around. The approach has served him well over a career in which Cooks is now on his seventh stop, including two in New Orleans; has topped 1,000 yards receiving six times; and played with Tom Brady in New England, Dak Prescott in Dallas and Jared Goff with the Rams. “Josh is very similar. There’s a way that your quarterback wants it,” Cooks said. “So I’m used to the aspect of like, hey, if they see it a certain way and maybe I don’t, well, I’ve got to come up on the same page and ﬁgure it out.” The quicker the better for the 32-year-old who already has established a rapport with Allen in the seven weeks since landing in Buffalo. And Cooks’ emerging role in the passing game will take on even greater emphasis on Saturday, when Buffalo travels to play the AFC’s top-seeded Denver Bron-

ä Bills at Broncos 3:30 P.M. SATURDAy, CBS

cos in a divisional round playoff matchup. Not only has the speedster provided Buffalo a downfield option the offense had been lacking, the team heads to Denver depleted at the position. Cooks, Khalil Shakir and Keon Coleman are the only three healthy receivers on Buffalo’s active roster after Gabe Davis and Tyrell Shavers injured their knees in a 27-24 wild-card playoff win at Jacksonville on Sunday. And that came a day after the Bills placed Joshua Palmer on injured reserve. “Obviously not an ideal situation. But I still trust that room completely,” Allen said. And that’s especially true of Cooks. “You don’t stay around the league as long as he has without being athletically gifted,” Allen said. “He’s a very good football player. We communicate extremely well.” It was apparent in a 13-12 loss to Philadelphia three weeks ago, when Cooks had four catches for 101 yards — the 25th 100-yard outing of his career and first in two years. The two were at it again Sunday at Jacksonville, where Cooks helped set up the go-ahead touchdown. Trailing by four and facing first and 10 at the Buffalo 44, Cooks ran up the left sideline, cut in toward

the middle to ﬁnd space in the Jaguars coverage and made a 36-yard catch just before the two-minute warning. Allen scored on a 1-yard run a minute later. “He’s showed up huge for us the last few games,” Allen said, noting the two worked on the play in practice last week. “For him to go out there and execute the way he did is pretty awesome.” For coach Sean McDermott, Cooks’ catch showed how the receiver combines speed and intuitiveness. “Instincts, that to me is the game of football. It’s not track, it’s not a 40-yard dash, weightlifting,” McDermott said. “And usually when you bring in good football players, you have a chance.” Including Sunday, Cooks has eight catches — seven for first downs — for 172 yards in six games with Buffalo. He’s already surpassed his yardage total of 165 in 10 games to open the season in his second stint with New Orleans. Cooks, who also spent three seasons in Houston, believed he had much more to offer than being a bit player with the Saints. He was granted his request to be cut on Nov. 19 and signed with Buffalo six days later. “He’s added a level to our offense that at times this year we didn’t have,” offensive coordinator Joe Brady said. “We’re grateful that we were able to get him on our football team.”

112-110 lead with 21 seconds left. Porter missed a jumper, and Murphy made two free throws with 10.6 seconds left. Powell made a 3-pointer to trim the lead to one with five seconds left. Bey made two free throws and Porter’s desperation 3-pointer missed at the buzzer. The Nets made six of their first eight 3-pointers as they raced to a 24-12 lead midway through the first quarter. But they missed all three that they took the rest of the quarter as the Pelicans crept as close as two points before Brooklyn held a 31-27 lead at the end of the period. Thomas made consecutive jumpers and the Nets extended the lead to nine points early in the second quarter. They led by nine a second time, but Murphy scored 11 points, Jordan Poole made two 3-pointers and Bryce McGowens made one 3-pointer as New Orleans trimmed the lead to 55-54 at halftime.

cause of a broken foot that limited him to nine games. There Continued from page 1C weren’t many questions about Strahan’s play when healthy. Jordan, on the other hand, hasn’t Just look at some of the names missed a game since 2022 and Jordan joined, many of whom ap- has been remarkably durable throughout his career, even pear more than once: 1. Reggie White: 16 sacks in while battling through some 1998 (age 37, Green Bay Packers) significant ailments. (He’ll note 2. Chris Doleman: 15 sacks in part of his down 2023 season was because of a foot injury that re1998 (37, San Francisco 49ers) 3. Kevin Greene: 12 sacks in quired offseason surgery.) Still, when players reach 1998 (36, Carolina Panthers) 4. Doleman again: 12 sacks in double-digit sacks, they typically have been playing at a high 1997 (36, San Francisco 49ers) 5. Greene again: 12 sacks in level. Peppers, for instance, put together a respectable 71/ 2-sack 1999 (37, Carolina Panthers) 6. Julius Peppers: 11 sacks in campaign in 2016 before finishing 2017 (37, Carolina Panthers) with 11 sacks at age 37 in 2017. 7. White again: 11 sacks in 1997 Jordan appears to be one of the (36, Green Bay Packers) rare exceptions, which makes it 8. Cam Jordan: 101/ 2 sacks in remarkable. 2025 (36, New Orleans Saints) 9. Too Tall Jones: 10 sacks in Rotational production 1987 (36, Dallas Cowboys) This is what might be most im10. Bruce Smith: 10 sacks in pressive regarding Jordan’s turn2000 (37, Washington Redskins) around: He did it while playing a That’s seven players total — rotational role. five of whom are in the Hall of The stat sheet will show that Fame. Only Jordan and Jones Jordan started all 17 games. But aren’t enshrined. once Chase Young returned from Jordan became the first defend- a calf injury that sidelined him er north of 36 to record double- for the first five weeks, Jordan digit sacks since Peppers in 2017. played less than half of the deThere have been only 25 defen- fense’s snaps in the eight games sive players of that age total to played between Weeks 7-15. log a snap in that span, let alone In that span, Jordan recorded a sack. four sacks. He then recorded four sacks in his last three Unexpected season games, when his playing time inJordan loves to say that he creased, but still never cracked knew he was still capable of 60%. The Saints have tended to putting together such a season, limit Jordan’s snaps as he has often noting that all he needed gotten older to keep him fresh was an opportunity. In those throughout the season. In all, Jordan played 53.6% remarks, he’d usually throw a potshot or two toward former of the Saints’ snaps in 2025. Of Saints defensive line coach Todd the 17 players to have at least Grantham for being the one he 10 sacks this past year, according to Stathead, Jordan had felt limited his usage. But Jordan had just two sacks the third-smallest percentage in 2023 and four sacks in 2024. of playing time, ahead of only The productivity, or lack thereof, Arizona’s Josh Sweat (12 sacks at 47.1%) and Detroit’s Alwas hard to ignore. “Did we expect 101/ 2 sacks from Quadin Muhammad (11 sacks him?” general manager Mickey at 41.4%). Since 2012, when Stathead beLoomis said. “No, I wouldn’t say that we expected that, but I’m ex- gan tracking player snap counts, Jordan’s 590 snaps were the 17th cited for him.” Jordan’s 61/ 2-sack jump from the fewest out of the 257 instances in year prior is one of the biggest which a player recorded at least ever when factoring in his age. 10 sacks in a season. “The Saints have done nothing The last player who was at least 36 years old to see an increase of but show that they want me to at least six sacks from the year be here,” Jordan said. “Now, at prior was Hall of Famer Michael what price? Some would say half Strahan in 2007. That year, Stra- off this last year. I can’t do that han recorded nine sacks after to- again.” taling three in 2006. But in Strahan’s case, his pro- Email Matthew Paras at matt. duction was cut short at 35 be- paras@theadvocate.com

The Advocate ■ theadvocate.com ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ 5C

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NFL sets playoff record for 4th-quarter drama BY JOSH DUBOW

Ron Sellers for Dallas against San Francisco to cap the ﬁrst playoff comeback from at least 15 points down to start the fourth quarter.

AP pro football writer The NFL never has experienced a playoff weekend quite like this. The ﬁrst four games of the 2025 postseason featured a combined 12 lead changes in the fourth quarter, topping the record for the most in an entire playoffs. The previous high for an entire postseason, according to the Elias Sports Bureau, was 10 in the 2007 playoffs, including three in the Super Bowl when the New York Giants ended New England’s bid for a perfect season. The four winning touchdowns scored in the final three minutes of regulation also set a record for an entire postseason. The weekend started with a back-and-forth game between Carolina and the Los Angeles Rams that wasn’t decided until Matthew Stafford’s 19-yard touchdown pass to Colby Parkinson provided the record-tying fourth lead change of the fourth quarter. Before this season, there had been only four playoff games featuring four fourth-quarter lead changes, with the most recent coming in New England’s overtime win over Kansas City in the 2018 AFC title game. The wait for another lasted just one day as Buffalo and Jacksonville traded leads in their game before the Bills prevailed 27-24 on Josh Allen’s 1-yard run with 1:04 left for the fourth lead change in the ﬁnal quarter. The next game that day featured three more, with San Francisco topping Philadelphia 23-19 in a win capped by Brock Purdy’s 4-yard touchdown pass to Christian McCaffrey with 2:54 left. The other fourth-quarter lead change came Saturday night when Chicago became the fourth team in NFL history to win a playoff game after trailing by at

Points for defense

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By MARK J. TERRILL

Los Angeles Rams tight end Colby Parkinson dives into the end zone for a touchdown during a game against the Arizona Cardinals on Jan. 4 in Inglewood, Calif. least 15 points at the start of the fourth quarter. The last time that happened came in Super Bowl 52 when New England rallied from 28-9 down at the end of the third quarter — the game had been 28-3 — to beat Atlanta 34-28 in overtime. The win was the record seventh this season for the Bears when they trailed in the final two minutes and the third this season in six games that they trailed by double digits in the final five minutes. That matches the total of the other 31 teams combined. The rest of the league was 3-158 in that scenario. What made the game even more odd was the fact that the Bears never ran a play on offense while

leading the game. Chicago scored a field goal on the opening drive but allowed a touchdown by Green Bay. The Bears didn’t go ahead again until Caleb Williams’ 25-yard pass to D.J. Moore with 1:43 to play. Green Bay then held the ball for the rest of the game, falling short on an incomplete pass on the final play. This marked just the fifth time in the last 20 seasons that a team won a playoff game without running an offensive play with the lead, with it last happening in Kansas City’s 25-22 overtime win over San Francisco in Super Bowl 58. Even stranger, the Bears and Packers played three times this season and Chicago ran no plays on

offense when leading, compared to 106 for Green Bay. But the Bears won two of those contests, with their only lead in a Week 16 win coming on a game-ending TD pass in overtime from Williams to Moore. The two late game-winning TD passes from Stafford and Williams on Saturday marked the ﬁrst time since Dec. 23, 1972, that two playoff games on the same day featured a winning touchdown pass in the ﬁnal two minutes, according to Sportradar. The games that day included Terry Bradshaw’s 60-yard pass to Franco Harris known as the “Immaculate Reception” in Pittsburgh’s win over the Raiders and Roger Staubach’s 10-yarder to

The weekend ended with two stellar defensive efforts, with New England beating the Los Angeles Chargers 16-3 and Houston getting two defensive touchdowns in a 30-6 win over Pittsburgh. The Texans became the eighth team in the Super Bowl era to score two defensive TDs in a playoff game and the second to do it in the last 18 seasons. The other time it happened came in the wild-card round two years ago when Houston did it against Cleveland. According to the NFL research department, the Texans became the second team to get multiple defensive touchdowns and allow no touchdowns in a playoff game. Chicago did it in a 73-0 win over Washington in the 1940 NFL championship game. The Patriots will next host the Texans in the ﬁrst playoff game featuring two teams that didn’t allow a touchdown in the previous round of the playoffs since the 2002 NFC title game. Tampa Bay beat San Francisco 31-6 in the divisional round that season and Philadelphia knocked off Atlanta 20-6.

Seventh seed struggles This marked the sixth season since the NFL added a seventh playoff team in each conference, and the results haven’t been good so far. With the losses by Green Bay and the Chargers, those seventh seeds are now 1-11 in the wild-card round, with the only win coming in the 2023 season when the Packers beat the Cowboys 48-32. Eight of the other 11 games were won by double digits by the No. 2 seed, with the average margin of victory in those 11 wins being 12.4 points per game.

SCOREBOARD Odds Monday

CFP National Championship Miami Gardens, Fla. FAVORITE OPEN TODAY O/U UNDERDOG Indiana 7½ 8½ (48½)Miami (FL)

College Basketball

FAVORITE LINE at LIBERTY 6½ Mercer 10½ at APP STATE 1½ Robert Morris 5½ Elon 1½ at WRIGHT STATE 6½ at N. KENTUCKY 10½ Green Bay 4½ at MONMOUTH 5½ Hofstra 6½ at GEO. SOUTH. 4½ at DELAWARE 1½ at UNC GREENS. 9½

NBA

Thursday

FAVORITE LINE at ORLANDO 5½ at DETROIT 6½ Boston 1½ Oklahoma City 4½ at SAN ANTONIO 7½ at DALLAS OFF at GOLDEN STATE 3½ at PORTLAND OFF at LA LAKERS 4½

NFL

UNDERDOG New Mexico State at VMI James Madison at IU INDIANAPOLIS at NORTHEASTERN Youngstown State Detroit Mercy at CLEVELAND STATE Drexel at STONY BROOK Old Dominion UTEP Citadel

O/U (231½) (220½) (233½) (221½) (226½) (OFF) (231½) (OFF) (232½)

UNDERDOG Memphis Phoenix at MIAMI at HOUSTON Milwaukee Utah New York Atlanta Charlotte

Saturday

FAVORITE OPEN TODAY O/U at DENVER 1½ 1½ (46) at SEATTLE 6½ 7 (45)

Sunday

UNDERDOG Buffalo San Fran.

FAVORITE OPEN TODAY O/U UNDERDOG at N. ENGLAND 2½ 3 (41) Houston LA Rams 4½ 3½ (48½) at CHICAGO

NHL

Thursday

FAVORITE at BUFFALO at PITTSBURGH at WASHINGTON at COLUMBUS at BOSTON at MINNESOTA at CHICAGO at EDMONTON at UTAH at VEGAS

LINE -115 -153 -197 -176 -175 -161 -112 -180 OFF -138

(Reece 4). Total Fouls—Kentucky 19, LSU 17.

Buffalo at Denver, 3:30 p.m. San Francisco at Seattle, 7 p.m.

Wednesday’s game EAST

Divisional playoffs Saturday

College Football

Thursday

Houston 30, Pittsburgh 6

UNDERDOG Montreal Philadelphia San Jose Vancouver Seattle Winnipeg Calgary N.Y Islanders Dallas Toronto

LINE -105 +128 +163 +146 +146 +135 -108 +150 OFF +117

Pro football Wild-card playoffs Jan. 10

L.A. Rams 34, Carolina 31 Chicago 31, Green Bay 27

Jan. 11

Buffalo 27, Jacksonville 24 San Francisco 23, Philadelphia 19 New England 16, L.A. Chargers 3

Jan. 12

Holy Cross 82, Army 75 Lehigh 93, Boston University 91, OT Sacred Heart 86, Siena 80 VCU 84, Rhode Island 75

Sunday

Houston at New England, 2 p.m. L.A. Rams at Chicago, 5:30 p.m.

Conference championships Jan. 25 AFC

SOUTH

AFC lowest remaining seed at AFC highest remaining seed

NFC

NFC lowest remaining seed at NFC highest remaining seed

Chattanooga 76, Wofford 67 Richmond 74, La Salle 53 Sam Houston 77, Jacksonville State 62 Tulsa 86, Charlotte 74 Western Carolina 72, East Tennessee State 68 Winthrop 92, High Point 75

MIDWEST

Rhode Island 46, VCU 41 USC Upstate 58, Presbyterian 38

MIDWEST

Ball State 103, Buffalo 61 Bowling Green 61, Western Michigan 54 Butler 62, Providence 52 Cleveland State 68, Detroit Mercy 52 Green Bay 69, Purdue Fort Wayne 57 Kent State 71, Ohio 68 Miami (OH) 69, Eastern Michigan 55 Ohio State 108, Penn State 84 Richmond 85, Dayton 67 Toledo 70, Northern Illinois 49 Washington 82, Indiana 63 Youngstown State 78, Wright State 67, OT

SOUTHWEST

Southern Miss 76, Texas State 62

Purdue 79, Iowa 72 Xavier 89, Butler 75

FAR WEST

Tuesday’s game

Pro basketball

College football

Wednesday’s game

NBA Conference Glance

College Football Playoff

Thursday’s games

Super Bowl LX Feb. 8 At Santa Clara, Calif.

Women’s state schedule

Conference championships winners, 5:30 p.m. (NBC/Peacock)

Tulane 71, Temple 58

National championship Monday

At Miami Gardens, Fla. No. 1 Indiana vs. No. 10 Miami, 6:30 p.m. (ESPN)

College basketball Wednesday’s games

Kentucky 75 LSU 74 Louisiana Tech 59, Middle Tennessee 58 Alabama-Birmingham 82, Tulane 69 Texas State 59, UL 54

EASTERN CONFERENCE

NW State at Houston Christian, 6 p.m. Lamar at UNO, 6:30 p.m. Southeastern at UTRGV, 6:30 p.m. Stephen F. Austin at Nicholls, 6:30 p.m. Middle Tenn. at Louisiana Tech, 6:30 p.m. McNeese at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, 7 p.m. UL at Arkansas State, 7 p.m.

Detroit New York Boston Toronto Philadelphia Orlando Cleveland Miami Atlanta Chicago Milwaukee Charlotte Brooklyn Washington Indiana

W 28 25 24 25 22 22 23 21 20 18 17 14 11 10 9

L 10 14 15 17 17 18 19 19 22 21 23 26 26 28 32

Pct GB .737 — .641 3½ .615 4½ .595 5 .564 6½ .550 7 .548 7 .525 8 .476 10 .462 10½ .425 12 .350 15 .297 16½ .263 18 .220 20½

Saturday’s games

Missouri at LSU, 2:30 p.m. Georgia State at UL-Monroe, 2:30 p.m. UL at South Alabama, 3 p.m. Lamar at Nicholls, 3 p.m. Southeastern at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, 3:30 p.m. Louisiana Tech at Jacksonville State, 4 p.m. Southern at Grambling, 4 p.m. NW State at Incarnate Word, 4 p.m. McNeese at Texas-Rio Grande Valley, 4:30 p.m. Stephen F. Austin at UNO, 5 p.m.

Oklahoma City San Antonio Denver Minnesota L.A. Lakers Houston Phoenix Golden State Portland Memphis L.A. Clippers Dallas Utah Sacramento New Orleans

W 34 27 27 27 24 23 24 22 19 17 16 15 14 10 9

L 7 13 13 14 14 14 16 19 22 22 23 25 25 30 33

Pct GB .829 — .675 6½ .675 6½ .659 7 .632 8½ .622 9 .600 9½ .537 12 .463 15 .436 16 .410 17 .375 18½ .359 19 .250 23½ .214 25½

Kentucky 75, LSU 74 KENTUCKY (10-6)

Jelavic 4-7 1-2 11, Moreno 4-7 2-3 10, Aberdeen 5-8 5-5 17, Oweh 6-13 6-10 21, Williams 2-6 0-0 5, Chandler 3-6 1-2 9, Garrison 0-3 0-0 0, Dioubate 1-2 0-0 2, Johnson 0-4 0-0 0. Totals 25-56 15-22 75. Nwoko 1-2 1-2 3, Sutton 5-9 3-4 16, Tamba 3-4 2-6 10, King 5-6 2-2 12, Mackinnon 4-16 6-6 16, Reece 2-7 5-6 11, Miller 3-3 0-2 6, Mosley 0-0 0-0 0. Totals 23-47 19-28 74. Halftime—LSU 38-22. 3-Point Goals—Kentucky 10-23 (Oweh 3-6, Aberdeen 2-3, Chandler 2-4, Jelavic 2-4, Williams 1-3, Dioubate 0-1, Johnson 0-2), LSU 9-19 (Sutton 3-4, Tamba 2-2, Reece 2-5, Mackinnon 2-7, King 0-1). Fouled Out—Williams. Rebounds— Kentucky 27 (Moreno 8), LSU 30 (Miller 7). Assists—Kentucky 14 (Aberdeen 4), LSU 12

UL at UL-Monroe, noon Southeastern at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, 1 p.m. Lamar at Nicholls, 1 p.m. Northwestern at UIW, 1 p.m. Western Kentucky at Louisiana Tech, 2 p.m. McNeese at UTRGV, 2 p.m. UAB at Tulane, 2 p.m. Stephen F. Austin at UNO, 2 p.m. Southern at Grambling, 2 p.m.

Women’s national scores Wednesday’s game EAST

Army 61, Holy Cross 46 Boston University 68, Lehigh 64 Canisius 57, Niagara 41 Fairﬁeld 63, Marist 49 George Washington 59, Duquesne 45 Iona 58, Merrimack 51 Lafayette 62, Bucknell 49 Loyola (MD) 49, Colgate 47 Manhattan 68, Mount St Marys 59 Navy 86, American 68 Sacred Heart 70, Siena 58 Saint Louis 66, La Salle 57 Seton Hall 64, Marquette 61 St. Bonaventure 57, Saint Joseph’s 48 TCU 51, West Virginia 50 UMass 82, Akron 68

SOUTH

Charleston Southern 72, UNC Asheville 66 Davidson 74, Fordham 50 George Mason 59, Loyola Chicago 54 Georgia Southern 66, Georgia State 55 Longwood 100, Winthrop 79 Northern Kentucky 63, Milwaukee 55 Old Dominion 65, Appalachian State 54 Radford 53, Gardner-Webb 38

WESTERN CONFERENCE

Tuesday’s games

Orlando vs Memphis, 1 p.m., Berlin Phoenix at Detroit, 6 p.m. Boston at Miami, 6:30 p.m. Oklahoma City at Houston, 6:30 p.m. Milwaukee at San Antonio, 7 p.m. Utah at Dallas, 7:30 p.m. Atlanta at Portland, 9 p.m. New York at Golden State, 9 p.m. Charlotte at L.A. Lakers, 9:30 p.m.

Late Tuesday

Denver 122, New Orleans 116 DENVER (122)

S.Jones 1-5 0-2 2, Watson 11-16 8-9 31, Gordon 6-15 3-5 16, J.Murray 11-19 8-9 35, Pickett 6-9 0-0 16, Tyson 0-2 0-0 0, Brown 2-5 0-0 4, Hardaway Jr. 4-9 7-7 18, Nnaji 0-4 0-0 0. Totals 41-84 26-32 122.

NEW ORLEANS (116)

San Diego State 73, New Mexico 56

Troy 86, UL-Monroe 80

Saturday’s games

Men’s state schedule

LSU (12-4)

NFL

Men’s national scores

Minnesota 139, Milwaukee 106 Miami 127, Phoenix 121 Houston 119, Chicago 113 Denver 122, New Orleans 116 Oklahoma City 119, San Antonio 98 L.A. Lakers 141, Atlanta 116 Golden State 119, Portland 97

Wednesday’s games

Cleveland 133, Philadelphia 107 Toronto 115, Indiana 101 New Orleans 116, Brooklyn 113 Chicago 128, Utah 126 Denver at Dallas, n New York at Sacramento, n Washington at L.A. Clippers, n

Thursday’s games

Bey 4-8 8-10 17, Williamson 5-12 2-3 12, Queen 5-10 0-0 10, Fears 3-9 4-4 10, Murphy III 11-18 5-5 31, Matkovic 2-3 0-0 4, Peavy 1-5 0-0 2, Missi 2-7 4-5 8, Hawkins 2-5 0-0 6, Poole 4-9 4-4 16. Totals 39-86 27-31 116. Denver 32 28 29 33 — 122 New Orleans 31 34 27 24 — 116 3-Point Goals—Denver 14-35 (J.Murray 5-8, Pickett 4-6, Hardaway Jr. 3-7, Watson 1-4, Gordon 1-5, Nnaji 0-1, S.Jones 0-2, Tyson 0-2), New Orleans 11-29 (Poole 4-7, Murphy III 4-8, Hawkins 2-4, Bey 1-4, Peavy 0-2, Fears 0-4). Fouled Out—Denver 1 (S.Jones), New Orleans None. Rebounds—Denver 32 (Gordon, Watson 7), New Orleans 51 (Queen 13). Assists—Denver 24 (J.Murray 9), New Orleans 21 (Queen 5). Total Fouls—Denver 22, New Orleans 20. A—17,309 (16,867)

Transactions BASEBALL

Major League Baseball American League BALTIMORE ORIOLES — Sent OF Jhonkensy Noel outright to Norfolk (IL). MINNESOTA TWINS — Claimed INF Vidal Bruján off waivers from Atlanta. Designated 2B Mickey Gasper for assignment. National League CHICAGO CUBS — Agreed to terms with INF Alex Bregman on a ﬁve-year major league contract.

FOOTBALL

National Football League ARIZONA CARDINALS — Signed WR Ihmir Smith-Marsette to a reserve/futures contract. BUFFALO BILLS — Placed WR Tyrell Shavers on injured reserve. CAROLINA PANTHERS — Waived S D’Anthony Bell. HOUSTON TEXANS — Re-signed S Brandon Hill to the practice squad. Released OT Jaylon Thomas from the practice squad. NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS — Signed DE Darrell Taylor to the practice squad. Released RB Elijah Mitchell from the practice squad. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES — Signed S Andre’ Sam to a reserve/futures contract. PITTSBURGH STEELERS — Signed LS Cal Adomitis, DT Kyler Baugh, WRs Cole Burgess, Max Hurleman and John Rhys Plumlee, DEs Anthony Goodlow and K.J. Henry, DBs Daequan Hardy and Jack Henderson, G Steven Jones, RB Lew Nichols, OLB Julius Welschoff and OL Aiden Williams to reserve/ futures contracts.

THURSDAY’S FAIR GROUNDS ENTRIES Post Time:12:45PM First Race, $14,000, Claiming $5,000, 4 yo’s & up, F & M (ﬁllies and mares) One Mile 01 02 03 04 05 06

Spicy Italian Maylen Sister Saint Smart Izzy Fret No More Came Up Roses

E Nieves D Cannon O Chavez D Magnon P Lopez H Hernandez

Second Race, $14,000, Maiden Claiming $10,000, 3 yo, F (ﬁllies) Five And A Half Furlongs

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08

Metallic Maid Bistineau Beauty Cava de Oro Cat’s Custom Sautee Nacoochee Betsy Louise Hannah Boo Custom Value

C Hernandez P Lopez M Murrill H Rea C McMahon M Pedroza, Jr. S Vives J Mudd

Third Race, $14,000, Claiming $5,000, 3 yo’s & up, F & M (ﬁllies and mares) Five And A Half Furlongs

01 Diamond Country

S Vives

3-1 4-1 7-2 4-1 5-1 7-2

9-2 6-1 5-1 12-1 4-1 9-2 6-1 9-2

4-1

02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09

Vanna G Secret Wine Clearly Bella Adiamondinthestorm Our Indian Girl Sacred Vow Classy Mimi Talkabout

J Mudd C Hernandez H Rea E Murray C McMahon D Magnon E Nieves A Concepcion

5-1 7-2 9-2 20-1 15-1 20-1 5-1 5-1

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10

Buckeye Bombshell Sky Low Low Channel Check (GB) Time Stone Good Conduct McKinzie’s Glory Galatina Awesomesauce Sunshine Daydream Queen Jubilee

C Hernandez J Loveberry I Castillo F Geroux J Ortiz B Hernandez, Jr. A Concepcion P Lopez B Curtis J Loveberry

8-1 15-1 6-1 9-2 4-1 6-1 6-1 7-2 10-1 5-1

01 02 03 04

Byword Silver Halo Steely Eye Saratoga Slack

J Riquelme D Cannon P Lopez J Graham

5-1 7-2 10-1 5-1

Fourth Race, $54,000, Maiden special weight, 4 yo’s & up, F & M (ﬁllies and mares) One Mile

Fifth Race, $18,000, Claiming $15,000, 4 yo’s & up Six Furlongs

05 06 07 08 09

Sand Street Elmore C’Est Magniﬁque Westeros Allied Commander

I Castillo J Loveberry H Rea117 M Murrill J Mudd

6-1 10-1 9-2 8-1 8-1

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08

Custom’s Cleared Kenmore West Good and Stout Wicked Secret Laser Clad Woods N Water Behemah Star Allnight Moonlight

M Murrill A Concepcion M Pedroza, Jr. J Loveberry B Hernandez, Jr. C McMahon E Nieves J Ortiz

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09

Attache Machine Gun Man Gaza Heroico (CHI) Bergen Banned for Life Shan Autodrive Grand Academic Honky Tonk Highway

M Pedroza, Jr. F Geroux J Loveberry H Hernandez P Lopez C McMahon B Hernandez, Jr. I Castillo A Concepcion

Sixth Race, $57,000, AOC $35,000, 4 yo’s & up One Mile

Seventh Race, $56,000, AOC $50,000, 4 yo’s & up Six Furlongs

10 Save the Trees

J Ortiz

4-1

6-1 5-1 9-2 6-1 6-1 15-1 20-1 7-5

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12

Daddario Fresh Out Baby Hello Click Pleasing Mo Echos Twirling Claire My Blue Line (GB) Auntie Vodka Deceitful Banker Gus’s Gal Sharp Mindset

B Curtis B Hernandez, Jr. M Murrill I Castillo J Graham J Loveberry D Cannon R Hernandez M Pedroza, Jr. A Concepcion J Ortiz P Lopez

8-1 8-1 20-1 6-1 20-1 20-1 8-1 15-1 8-1 8-1 9-2 7-2

8-1 12-1 12-1 6-1 3-1 12-1 9-2 12-1 8-1

01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09

Promesa Divina Lolita J Helena Baby Honor and Obay Pam’s Friend Well Received M K’s Rockette Ice Cold Blonde Danzig’s Dora

I Castillo D Cannon H Hernandez J Loveberry A Concepcion P Lopez M Pedroza, Jr. J Mudd M Murrill

8-1 8-1 8-1 6-1 6-1 6-1 9-2 12-1 7-2

Eighth Race, $30,000, Maiden optional claiming $50,000, 3 yo, F (ﬁllies) Five And A Half Furlongs

Ninth Race, $17,000, Maiden Claiming $15,000, 3 yo, F (ﬁllies) Six Furlongs

6C ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

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THE VARSITY ZONE

STATEMENT MADE

Zachary justifies No. 1 state ranking with win vs. Curtis

PREP REPORT

Boys basketball Wednesday’s scores Catholic High PC 64, Port Barre 34 St. Michael 51, Live Oak 43 Prairieville 60, Albany 56 Scotlandville 45, McKinley 30 Brusly 60, Iowa 22 Dunham 75, West Feliciana 55 Collegiate Baton Rouge 61, Glen Oaks 56

BY JACKSON REYES Staff writer

Zachary basketball looked to protect its No. 1 ranking in the state against the No. 2 team, John Curtis, on Tuesday night. Louisiana’s top two teams, according to MaxPreps, battled, and the Patriots led for a majority of the game, including 40-28 late in the third quarter. Then Broncos guards Cambren Price and Ian Edmond knocked down the team’s lone 3-pointers of the game on consecutive possessions to cut the lead to six and spark a 12-2 run to close the quarter trailing 42-40. Zachary (17-1) outscored the Patriots 29-17 in the fourth quarter and won 69-59. Curtis fell to 15-2. “Basketball in January is tough,” Broncos coach Jon McClinton said. “You always want to play the best teams in the state.” McClinton said his team loves to come back, but is focusing on getting better starts. Zachary held a 4-2 lead in the ﬁrst minutes but didn’t lead again until early in the fourth quarter. “We struggle at times to have those great starts,” McClinton said. “Every time we close the gap, they’ll push it right back up.” Despite trailing by double digits twice, Zachary strung together defensive stops and outscored the Patriots 41-19 after trailing by 12 late in the third. “At the end of the day, we had one more punch,” McClinton said. “We threw that punch.” McClinton said his team loves to come back but is focusing on getting better starts. Zachary held a 4-2 lead early in the game but didn’t lead again until the fourth quarter.

Dunham 75, West Feliciana 55

Dunham 16 13 21 25 — 75 West Feliciana 15 13 6 21 — 55 SCORING: DUNHAM: Oliviet 26, Blanton 18, Haven 12, Washington 8, Thorton 5, Myers 5, Thomas 1; WEST FELICIANA: Lathers 17, Minor 10, Sullivan 7, Lindsey 6, Hills 6, Smith 4, White 1 3-POINT GOALS: DUNHAM 6 (Oliviet 2, Blanton 2, Thorton, Myers); WEST FELICIANA 6 (Lathers 3, Lindsey 2, Minor) RECORDS: Dunham 10-0; West Feliciana 12-4 JUNIOR VARSITY: West Feliciana 37, Dunham 35

Girls basketball

Wednesday’s scores Parkview Baptist 54, Mandeville 39 Liberty 77, Donaldsonville 42 White Castle 54, Assumption 36 East Iberville 38, Port Allen 17

PHOTO By APRIL BUFFINGTON

John Curtis guard Tory Walker goes for a layup as Zachary’s Ian Edmond defends on Tuesday night in Zachary. The Broncos won 69-59. The Broncos pride themselves on “kills,” which is four defensive stops in a row. The stiﬂing defense has been a focal point of Zachary’s record and top ranking. “That’s the way we play,” McClinton said. “Get stops and get out and run.” Two players who fueled the comeback effort were Edmond and forward Ethan Kimmie.

Edmond ﬁnished with 11 points and played with a bandage on his forehead after landing on his head late in the ﬁrst half. “The little kid is tough,” McClinton said of the 6-foot-1 junior. “He’s been seeing double teams; he’s been seeing denials. But I tell him, that’s why we stayed in the weight room all summer. That’s why we made it tough when it came to our boot camp.”

Edmond echoed his coach’s sentiments on the defense ﬂipping momentum. “Energy. We just had to pick it up,” he said. “We were getting back on defense. We were playing into the crowd.” He said the statement win over Curtis proves their ranking is justiﬁed. “No. 1 team in the state,” Edmond said of what the win represented. “That’s all I’ve got to say.” Kimmie had a game-high 23 points. He scored 15 points in the second half, including eight in the fourth. “He’s given us everything he’s got,” McClinton said. “I’m so happy right now because he’s playing so much harder.” Kimmie made several defensive stops, including two steals that led to fast-break points. McClinton wanted his team to enjoy the win, but they soon will turn their attention to Hannan on Friday. “We’re moving in the right direction,” McClinton said. “But we’re not anywhere close to being there yet.”

Southern adds two SEC players out of portal BY TOYLOY BROWN III Staff writer

Southern added a pair of former Southeastern Conference players from the transfer portal. Former Arkansas offensive lineman Zuri Madison and Texas A&M running back Ronnie Crosby both announced their commitments on social media to join new coach Marshall Faulk at Southern. Madison, who announced his commitment Monday, spent his true freshman year at Arkansas in 2024, where he didn’t appear in a game. After redshirting that season, he transferred to Arkansas State for the 2025 season where he also didn’t appear in any games. The 6-foot-3, 300-pound Madison is from Lexington, Kentucky. In high school, the three-star prospect was rated the No. 48 interior offensive lineman nationally and the No. 6 overall prospect in Kentucky, according to 247Sports. Crosby announced his commitment to Southern on Tuesday after spending three seasons at Texas A&M. He had one carry for 1 yard in his one game of action last season and didn’t appear in any other contests his ﬁrst two seasons. The 5-8, 210-pound junior running back was a no-star recruit in the 2023 recruiting class after playing at DeRidder High School. During his senior season, Crosby had 192 carries for 1,341 yards and 14 TDs. He also had eight catches for 61 yards. Southern’s running back room now two former SEC running backs with Crosby and Trey Holly (LSU), who announced he will not enter the transfer portal. Holly, a sophomore, had 869 yards rushing and nine TDs last season, which were both fourth in the SWAC. Faulk is in the process of crafting a new coaching staff. His offensive coordinator is Ken Merchant. The former Sacramento State offensive coordinator is known for an innovative system called the “Go-Go Offense.” That system prioritizes running the ball. Sacramento State led the Big Sky Conference in rushing.

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LIVING

T H E A D V O C AT E.C O M

T h u r s d ay, J a n u a ry 15, 2026

1dn

STAFF PHOTOS By JAVIER GALLEGOS

Dr. Reuben Battley slices mushrooms as Dr. Madison Flake, center, and Sarah Gray observe his knife skills during a culinary medicine workshop.

FROM THE HEART

When health care meets food, it makes for happy cooking. Here’s how.

CULINARY MEDICINE 101

Spaghetti and a Caesar salad

BY APRIL HAMILTON

Contributing writer

ooking is contagious. I caught the bug in my youth and delight in spreading it wherever I go. I have watched smiles consume a roomful of kindergarteners as they turned flour, yeast and water into turtle-shaped bread loaves. If you told 5-year-old me that decades later I would land in a career combining cooking and health care, I would have called it fantasy. Dreams come true and the smiles endure. The joy shared with me by my mom in our 1960s kitchen began with nutrition education, which felt less like a lecture and more like gospel. Cue my mom’s Alabama accent: “Eat the broccoli stems and leaves; they have more ﬁber and minerals.”

Contributing writer

of her nonnegotiables. “Soda pop is poison; it leaches the calcium from your teeth and bones. Watch out for preservatives. Read the label. Softserve ice cream is full of chemicals. Red dye will kill you.” She was ahead of her time. Mom lived to almost 93 and her words continue to echo. Gospel.

This concept is framed around the Mediterranean Diet principle, focusing more on adding things in than restrictions. The tenets of the Mediterranean Diet are the foundation of Culinary Medicine: n Vegetables. It is suggested to fill half your plate with a variety of veggies. n Legumes. Beans and lentils add protein and fiber and can be sprinkled into most dishes for a flavor, texture and nutrient boost n Fruits, nuts and seeds n Whole grains n Seafood n Oils. Choosing unsaturated (olive oil primarily, with recommendations to limit saturated fats) n Dairy with an emphasis on cultured dairy, like yogurt and feta cheese and

ä See HEALTH CARE, page 2D

ä See MEDICINE, page 2D

A basil garnish sits atop a pot of mushroom and meat spaghetti. “Have an orange with your eggs and spinach to help with iron absorption.” “Balance your plate with protein, vegetables and a starch. Have a variety.” “Make your own salad dressing.” “Did you drink your milk?” “We don’t answer the phone or watch TV at the dinner table. Who wants to start the blessing?” There was also daily discussion

Re-create Anthony Bourdain’s beef bourguignon BY GRETCHEN McKAY

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (TNS) One beneﬁt of being a food editor is that I get the opportunity to try out recipes from the latest cookbooks, often before they have even made it onto store shelves. It keeps me on my toes with what’s trending, and over the years it has had the fringe beneﬁt of greatly expanding my culinary skills. But these days, I’m also tempted on a daily basis by what ends up on my social media feeds.

Click once on a recipe that looks good, and thanks to algorithms that inﬂuence what pops up on your screen, chances are you’ll be inundated with that chef Recipe, or restaurant’s 2D content again and again. Lately, for me, the late great Anthony Bourdain has been making regular appearances on my phone as I food scroll. Known for his straight-talking, unpretentious take on cooking

and exploration of global cuisine through his shows “No Reservations” and “Parts Unknown,” Bourdain was and continues to be loved for his candid and (sometimes) unﬁltered take on food. Home cooks also appreciate his practical cooking tips and techniques. His recipe for beef bourguignon, which popped up on my screen a few days ago, is a great example.

ä See BEEF, page 2D

Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon

PITTSBURGH POST-GAZETTE/ TNS PHOTO By GRETCHEN McKAy

2D ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

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Can I tell young co-workers they have bad manners? any of us can do? Dear Miss Manners: I freGentle reader: Although quently attend team there is, today, too much lunches and dinners with blurring of the professional my immediate department members, both supervisors and personal spheres, it was always understood that and associates. These dining experiences are mostly an otherwise promising mentee who did not personal affairs and know how to speak come after a week of or behave in polite hard teamwork. company would be We work in an at a disadvantage industry where in a professional we will be in one career — and that a location for a few Judith good mentor might months, and then Martin have to help make move on to another MISS up this deﬁciency. city. We all get along MANNERS Perhaps you can and have each othidentify a senior er’s back. member of the team who But here is the problem: might act in this more genThere are two members of our team who are in their eral capacity for these two 20s, and they both have the — as a professional mentor, worst table manners! They that is, knowing that ﬁnding set their bread on the bare opportunities for them to table, as well as any soiled improve their table mancutlery. They cut up their ners will be only a part of entire meal into tiny pieces their extracurricular edulike they are toddlers. I cation. This might make a could go on, but you get the positive difference for their idea. careers — while not putting These are nice young anyone in the position of women! They are collegepromising that any second educated. Each one comdates hinge upon the supeplains that they never get rior etiquette discernment a second date after dining of 20-something males. at a nice restaurant, and I Dear Miss Manners: My niece understand why. worked at a well-known I am well aware it is not retail store in the 1980s. She my duty to advise them of told me they were required how to butter a dinner roll. to greet customers because But I feel sorry for them research has shown that and am frequently embarpeople are less likely to steal after a personal exrassed for them. Should I just accept there is nothing change. Now I bristle a bit

and feel insulted when I am greeted at a store. Gentle reader: Rest assured that in a few years, new research will show that the original research was incorrect for any number of reasons. Miss Manners has stopped following the details. Admittedly, though, the next time a hostess greets Miss Manners by name at the door, she may stop to wonder if it is a nefarious way to discourage her from pocketing the silverware. Dear Miss Manners: A good friend asked me to join her and a few other people for lunch. This was not something I wanted to do, so I claimed to have conﬂicts on the ﬁrst two dates she suggested. Then she said, “Well, what would be a good day for you?” I said something about just not being sociable, but it didn’t feel very good. What could I have said, short of “never”? Gentle reader: “Let me get back to you.” Send questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners. com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail. com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

In 1967, the Green Bay Packers of the National Today is Thursday, Jan. 15, Football League defeated the Kansas City Chiefs the 15th day of 2026. There are 350 days left in the year. of the American Football League 35-10 in the first Today in history: AFL-NFL World ChampionOn Jan. 15, 2009, US Airways Capt. Chesley “Sully” ship Game, known retroacSullenberger landed an tively as Super Bowl I. Airbus A320 safely in New In 1991, Sean Lennon’s reYork’s Hudson River after make of his father’s “Give striking a flock of birds that Peace A Chance” was redisabled both engines shortly leased to coincide with the after takeoff; all 155 people United Nations’ midnight aboard survived the emerdeadline for Iraq to withgency water landing, which draw from Kuwait. The lyrbecame known as “The ics were updated to reflect Miracle on the Hudson.” concerns of the 1990s. Also on this date: In 1992, more than two In 1559, Elizabeth I was dozen European nations crowned queen of England formally recognized Croaand Ireland in Westminster tia and Slovenia as indeAbbey. pendent nations amid the In 1919, in Boston, a tank breakup of Yugoslavia. containing an estimated 2.3 In 2001, Wikipedia, the million gallons of molasses free online encyclopedia burst, flooding the city’s maintained by volunteer North End and killing 21 peo- editors, made its debut. In 2019, extremists ple in what was later dubbed stormed a luxury hotel in the “Great Molasses Flood.” In 1929, civil rights leader Kenya’s capital of Nairobi, Martin Luther King Jr. was setting off explosives and gunning down people at born in Atlanta. cafe tables in an attack In 1943, work was comclaimed by Africa’s deadlipleted on the Pentagon.

est Islamic militant group, al-Shabab. At least 21 people were killed in the attack and 28 others wounded. In 2022, an undersea volcano erupted in the Paciﬁc island nation of Tonga, shooting millions of tons of water vapor high into the atmosphere. A handful of deaths were blamed on the eruption, and scientists studied the blast afterward seeking to determine whether the water vapor acted as a heat-trapping greenhouse gas. Today’s birthdays: Actor Andrea Martin is 79. Football Hall of Famer Randy White is 73. Actor-director Mario Van Peebles is 69. Boxing Hall of Famer Bernard Hopkins is 61. Actor-director Regina King is 55. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni is 49. Former NFL quarterback Drew Brees is 47. Rapper-reggaeton artist Pitbull is 45. Conservative commentator Ben Shapiro is 42. DJ-music producer Skrillex is 38. Singer-songwriter Grace VanderWaal is 22.

Anthony Bourdain’s Beef Bourguignon Serves 8. Recipe is from “Anthony Bourdain’s Les Halles Cookbook” by Anthony Bourdain. color. 3. Sear the meat a little at a time, removing it and setting it aside as it finishes. When all the meat is a nice dark brown color and has been set aside, add onions to the pot. 4. Lower the heat to medium-high until the onions are soft and golden brown, about 10 minutes. 5. Sprinkle ﬂour over the onions. Continue to cook for 1. Season the meat with about 4-5 minutes, stirring salt and pepper. occasionally, then add red 2. In a Dutch oven, heat wine. Naturally, you want oil over high heat until it is to scrape up all that really almost smoking. Add the good fond from the bottom meat, in batches — NOT of the pot with your wooden ALL AT ONCE! — and sear spoon. on all sides until it is well 6. Bring the wine to a boil. browned (not gray). If you 7. Return the meat to the dump too much meat in the pot and add carrots, garlic pot at the same time, you’ll and bouquet garni. Add just overcrowd it; cool the thing enough water (and two big down and you won’t get good spoons of demi-glace if you 2 pounds boneless beef shoulder or chuck, cut into 1 ½-inch pieces Salt and pepper ¼ cup olive oil 4 onions, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup red burgundy wine such as pinot noir 6 carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 garlic clove 1 bouquet garni Demi-glace, optional Chopped flat parsley

BEEF

Continued from page 1D Julia Child might be responsible for popularizing the classic, slow-cooked French stew in which chunks of beef shoulder are slowly braised in red wine with onions and carrots until the meat is tender enough to

almost melt in your mouth. But Bourdain, with his devilbe-damned demeanor, somehow makes the dish feel approachable — even though the two chefs’ recipes are pretty similar. With the price of beef going up and up, this could be considered a special occasion dish for a chilly December night. But you also could substitute lean stew-

Spaghetti with Meat and Lentils The recipe is from the Health Meets Food curriculum (www.culinarymedicine.org). 1½ quarts water ½ cup brown or green lentils 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium white or yellow onion, diced 1 large stalk celery, diced ½ large red bell pepper, diced 8 ounces mushrooms, minced 2 cloves garlic, minced 8 ounces lean ground beef (90/10) 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added tomato sauce 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce ¼ cup water 2½ teaspoons Italian seasoning ½ teaspoon salt Black pepper to taste 4 quarts water 12 ounces dried whole wheat spaghetti

1. Bring 1½ quarts water to a boil in a medium-sized saucepan. Add the lentils and cook until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain, rinse and set aside. 2. While the lentils are cooking, make the sauce. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the onion and cook for 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the celery and bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently. Add the mushrooms and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the liquid has evaporated. Add the garlic and cook 1 minute. 3. Add the beef to the

vegetable mixture and stir to brown and break up the meat, cooking until no longer pink. Add the tomato sauce, Worcestershire, ¼ cup water, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper to taste and the cooked lentils. Stir, reduce heat to medium-low, cover and cook for about 30 minutes. Add water in ¼-cup increments if sauce is too thick. 4. While the sauce cooks, bring the 4 quarts of water to boil in a stockpot over high heat. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. 5. Divide the cooked pasta into 6 servings and top each with about ¾ cup sauce.

Caesar Salad Recipe is adapted from the Health Meets Food curriculum (www.culinarymedicine. org). The dressing keeps well in the fridge for up to a week.

TODAY IN HISTORY By The Associated Press

STAFF PHOTO By JAVIER GALLEGOS

Olivia Dinh chops lettuce for a Caesar salad during a culinary medicine workshop at LSU.

have it) so that the liquid covers the meat by one-third — meaning you want a ratio of 3 parts liquid to 2 parts meat. This is a stew, so you want plenty of liquid, even after it cooks down and reduces. 8. Bring to a boil, reduce to a gentle simmer and let cook for about 2 hours or until the meat is break-apart-witha-fork tender. You should check the dish every 15 or 20 minutes, stirring and scraping the bottom of the pot to make sure the meat is not sticking or, even worse, scorching. You should also skim off any foam or scum or oil collecting on the surface using a large spoon or ladle. 9. When done, remove and discard the bouquet garni, add chopped parsley to the pot and serve. ing beef. I was lucky to ﬁnd a chuck roast on sale. Be sure not to splurge on the wine for the stew — any good-quality inexpensive dry red wine will work in this dish. I used pinot noir, but cabernet sauvignon or merlot will also work even though they are not burgundies. The stew tastes even better the second day.

1. Place the garlic, Worcestershire, pepper, lemon juice, mustard, honey, Parmesan and yogurt in a blender and process until smooth. Alternatively, ingredients can be placed in a 4-cup measuring cup or wide-mouth mason jar and blended with an immersion blender. 2. Transfer dressing to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 2

hours or up to one week. 3. Rinse the lettuce and spin dry, or dry with clean kitchen towels. Slice the lettuce crosswise or tear by hand into bite-size pieces. Refrigerate until serving time. 4. Toss the lettuce in a large salad bowl with half of the dressing and toss to coat. Serve with remaining dressing on the side as desired.

class with our physicians and pediatric residents make this Continued from page 1D outline approachable. We prepared ‘Spaghetti Four Ways’ beginning with hard-aged cheese like Par- a classic meat sauce and gradually enhancing the mesan n Meats with a recomfollowing three batches mendation of about 4 ounc- with added vegetables and es of lean meat per day and then added lentils, then all limiting red meat to one vegetables with lentils and no meat. The unofficial serving per week. The recipes we prepared crowd favorite was the one in our Culinary Medicine with the works — tons of

veggies, half the meat, plus lentils and served on whole wheat spaghetti. The Caesar salad was a hit as well. We also debunked the myth that eating healthy costs more. This feast for 20-plus cost $85.70 in ingredients with extra pantry items for our next session. Delicious, nutritious pasta and salad for $4 per serving? That makes everyone happy.

2 cloves garlic, peeled and roughly chopped 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce ¼ teaspoon black pepper Juice of half a lemon, or more to taste 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon honey 1½ ounces Parmesan cheese, grated ½ cup nonfat Greek yogurt Romaine lettuce, about 3 large leaves per serving

MEDICINE

that started at Tulane Medi- taught generations of regHEALTH CARE cal School. The concept istered dietitians, student

Continued from page 1D

Today, I work as a nurse at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital with like-minded doctors, minus the preaching, who paved the path to starting a Health Meets Food Culinary Medicine program. About a dozen years ago when I was chefﬁng in West Virginia, I learned about the program

captivated me, and I am beyond honored to have a role in teaching pediatric residents cooking and nutrition. Rule No. 1 is to have fun. Doctors trade their white coats for chef jackets and the future pediatricians tie on purple aprons to celebrate the university’s theme color. We have a red-carpet welcome into the teaching kitchen on LSU’s campus, where Judy Myhand has

athletes and 4-H kids how to nourish and flourish. When a career change beckoned in my empty nest era and mom was still here, I shared my somewhat fleeting wish of nursing school with her. She voiced her concerns about the long shifts and challenges of the field. As she took her last breath, my first semester began and nutrition was on the syllabus. I know she is smiling now.

Was Scenic Highway ever scenic?

has the answers to all your questions!

Submit your questions today! or email: curiouslouisiana@theadvocate.com

The Advocate ■ theadvocate.com ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ 3D

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FrAnK And erneSt

bIG nAte

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zodIAC CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Participate, check your options and interact with like-minded people. Be observant and willing to try something different. Opportunities come to those who are open to change. Socializing and romance are favored. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Pay attention to what's happening at home. Address personal issues and alter your lifestyle to encourage better relationships. Take pride in your work and enjoy the process. PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) Be aware of what's happening around you and do your part. Refuse to let anyone take advantage of you. Take the high road, and don't hesitate to use your voice to protect yourself and others. ARIES (March 21-April 19) Simplify your life; downsize, sell off what you don't need and focus on what's important. Search for ways to make your life more meaningful and to bring about positive changes. TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Keep your momentum flowing, and you'll gain respect. Use your skills to make a difference. Do something to improve your emotional well-being. GEMINI (May 21-June 20) Pay attention to your relationships with others. Someone you encounter will take advantage of you if you aren't careful. Focus in establishing and refining ground rules. CANCER (June 21-July 22) Execute your plans with precision and attention to detail. Take steps to deal with someone

trying to oust or thwart you. Be shrewd and secretive, and success will follow. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) Avoid impulsive spending and paying for other people's mistakes. Put your energy into a creative outlet that brings you joy and helps take your mind off situations you cannot change. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Rethink your current situation, your relationships with others and how you run your home and personal lives. A change to your surroundings will help to ground you and encourage you to rethink your direction. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) Take time to consider the pros and cons in your life and what you can eliminate and what you want to implement. Change is doable, but it will require research and boosting your qualifications. SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Entertainment will cost more than you anticipate. Set a strict budget and refrain from paying for others. Focus on communication, gathering information and opening doors to new beginnings. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Refuse to let domestic situations grow into something you can't handle. Emotions will fester if you aren't direct about your feelings and plans. Honesty is necessary to avoid regret. 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: D EQUALS F

Mother GooSe And GrIMM

SherMAn’S LAGoon FAMILY CIrCUS

dooneSbUrY

4D ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate

CurTiS

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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 Advocate ■ theadvocate.com ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ 5D

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Bridge BY PHILLIP ALDER Michel Eyquem de Montaigne, a 16thcentury French essayist and courtier, said, “He who establishes his argument by noise and command shows that his reason is weak.” That applies to some stage productions. If a playwright needs the actors to shout for effect, it is usually not well-written. A bridge player needs to be careful when his trump suit is weak. He must try to maintain command of the play. This deal highlights one common technique. West leads the diamond jack against four hearts. How should South continue after he takes the first trick with his queen? South opens one no-trump, 15-17 points in the modern style. North, upgrading becausehehastwoaces(whichareworth nearer nine points than eight), uses Stayman, then invites game in hearts. South is in the middle of his range, but also upgrades because he has two aces and two kings. If trumps are 4-1, South is probably going down. But if they are 3-2, he seems to have only three losers: two hearts and one diamond. However, now count winners. There are six outside hearts, so declarer needs to take four trump tricks: the ace and three ruffs. With this distribution, though, if South immediately plays on clubs, East overruffs the third round and the contract fails.

garfield

Pearls Before swiNe

hagar the horriBle

The right line is to duck a round of trumps. Suppose East wins and returns a diamond. Declarer wins with his ace, plays a heart to dummy’s ace, and proceeds with the black-suit crossruff. West gets his trump winner whenever he likes. © 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 — oRPHAnS: OR-fans: Children deprived by death of one or

Bizarro

marmaduKe

usually both parents. Average mark 19 words Time limit 30 minutes Can you find 26 or more words in ORPHANS? YESTERDAY’S WoRD — LoGIcALLY lacy laic lilac lily local locally logic logical logy loll loyal

oily gaily gall gill goal golly cagily cagy call ciao clay

clog cloy coal coil cola alloy ally yoga yogi

loCKhorNs hidato Yesterday’s Puzzle Answer

today’s thought “Thus said the Lord, Stand you in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and you shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.” Jeremiah 6:16 We may not need the good old days but we sure need the good old ways. Walk with God. — G.E. Dean

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Announcements Anyone knowing the whereabouts of an heir, descendant, or relative of Antoine Whitaker or a representative of the Succession of and/or Unknown Heirs of Antoine Whitaker please contact James L. Maughan by phone or email. 225713-3666 james@maughan.attorney. 173975-Jan 15-17, 3t $133 Anyone knowing the whereabouts of any succession representative of Tiffany Slan, contact Carlin Chambliss: (225)270-1209. 173929-Jan 15-17, 3t $85 Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Bonnie Lou Grindle Vandeveer, contact Carlin Chambliss: (225)2701209. 173931-Jan 15-17, 3t $85 Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Ellen Harvey Williamson and/or Kory C. Williamson, Sr., contact Carlin Chambliss: (225)270-1209. 173932-Jan 15-17, 3t $85 Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Garrick Smith, please contact Creighton B. Abadie, Attorney, at (225) 924-5150. 173793-Jan 14-16, 3t $85

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Anyone knowing the whereabouts of someone with the name of Michelle Rodriguez please contact Sonja C. Bradley, Attorney at Law, 14292 Florida Blvd, Livingston Louisiana 70754, call (225) 686-8006, or email sonjabradleylaw@gmail.com. 173892-Jan 14-16, 3t $133 Anyone knowing the whereabouts of William Paul Joseph, Jr., a/k/a William P. Joseph, Jr. and Rosheen Poplar Joseph please contact Attorney Keith A. Doley 504-9437071. 173918-Jan 14-16, 3t $109

Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Judy Ann Maechling, please contact David McDavid, Attorney, at 225-490-8780. 173974-Jan 15-17, 3t $85

Hunan G Inc. d/b/a Hunan is applying to the Ofﬁce of Alcohol & Tobacco Control of the State of Louisiana for a permit to sell beverages of high and low alcohol content at retail in the Parish of East Baton Rouge at the following address:

Anyone knowing the whereabouts of LINDA MARIE PARKER, Contact Attorney Temica R. Dukes PO Box 380, New Roads, La. 70760; 225 713 8455. 173935-Jan 15-17, 3t $97

4215 S. Sherwood Forest Ste 5 & 6 Baton Rouge LA 70816 Hunan G Inc Hunan Members: Chang Gao 174001-Jan 15, 1t $112.64

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PUBLIC NOTICE --ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Bids will be received by the Office of Purchasing, Room 213 Thomas Boyd Hall, Louisiana State Uni‐ versity and Agricultural and Mechanical College 70803 until 11:00 AM on Thursday, February 5, 2026. Refer to www.centerlineb idconnect.com for bid submission instructions. All bids must be submit‐ ted via email to lsubids@ lsu.edu ANY PERSON REQUIRING SPECIAL ACCOMMODA‐ TIONS SHALL NOTIFY LOUISIANA STATE UNI‐ VERSITY, OFFICE OF PUR‐ CHASING OF THE TYPE(S) OF ACCOMMODATION RE‐ QUIRED NOT LESS THAN SEVEN (7) DAYS BEFORE THE BID OPENING. FOR: Furnish Labor and Materials for Student Union Replace Air Han‐ dlers 2.4 and 2.5 LSU SOLICITATION NUMBER: RFQ-0000002684 Complete Bidding Docu‐ ments for this project may be obtained from: www.centerlinebidco nnect.com. Printed copies are not available from the Designer, but arrangements can be made to obtain them through most repro‐ graphic firms. Contractors unable to access bidding docu‐ ments at www.centerl inebidconnect.com should contact IMC Consulting Engineers, Inc. 2714 Independence Street Metairie, LA 70006 Phone: 504-723-8693 Email: chigbee@imcconsulting engineers.com All bids must be accom‐ panied by bid security equal to five percent (5%) of the sum of the base bid and all alter‐ nates, and must be in the form of a certified check, cashier’s check or Bid Bond Form written by a surety company licensed to do business in Louisiana, signed by the surety’s agency or attor‐ ney-in-fact. Surety must be listed on the current U.S. Department of the Treasury Financial Man‐ agement Service list of approved bonding com‐ panies as approved for an amount equal to or greater than the amount for which it obligates it‐ self in the Bond, or must be a Louisiana domiciled insurance company with at least an A- rating in the latest printing of the A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide. If surety qualifies by virtue of its Best’s list‐ ing, the amount of the Bond may not exceed ten percent of policyholders’ surplus as shown in the latest A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide. The Bid Bond shall be in favor of the Louisiana State Uni‐ versity and Agricultural and Mechanical College, and shall be accompa‐ nied by appropriate power of attorney. No Bid Bond indicating an oblig‐ ation of less than five percent (5%) by any method is acceptable. The successful Bidder shall be required to fur‐ nish a Performance and Payment Bond written by a company licensed to d b i i i i

Public Notices Bids/Proposals p y do business in Louisiana, in an amount equal to 100% of the Contract amount. Surety must be listed currently on the U.S. Department of Trea‐ sury Financial manage‐ ment Service List (Trea‐ sury List) as approved for an amount equal to or greater than the con‐ tract amount, or must be an insurance company domiciled in Louisiana or owned by Louisiana resi‐ dents. If surety is quali‐ fied other than by listing on the Treasury list, the contract amount may not exceed fifteen percent of policyholders’ surplus as shown by surety’s most recent financial state‐ ments filed with the Louisiana Department of Insurance and may not exceed the amount of $500,000. However, a Louisiana domiciled in‐ surance company with at least an A- rating in the latest printing of the A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide shall not be sub‐ ject to the $500,000 limi‐ tation, provided that the contract amount does not exceed ten percent of policyholders’ surplus as shown in the latest A.M. Best’s Key Rating Guide nor fifteen percent of policyholder’s surplus as shown by surety’s most recent financial state‐ ments filed with the Louisiana Department of Insurance. The Bond shall be signed by the surety’s agent or attor‐ ney-in-fact. A PRE-BID CONFERENCE WILL BE HELD 10:00 AM, Friday, January 23, 2026 LSU Student Union, (meet in main lobby) Baton Rouge, LA 70803 Bids shall be accepted from Contractors who are licensed under LA. R.S. 37:2150-2163 for the ME‐ classification of CHANICAL. Bidder is re‐ quired to comply with provisions and require‐ ments of LA R.S. 38:2212 (A)(1)(c). No bid may be withdrawn for a period of thirty (30) days after re‐ ceipt of bids, except under the provisions of LA. R.S. 38:2214. The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all bids for just cause. In ac‐ cordance with La. R.S. 38:2212 (A)(1)(b), the pro‐ visions and requirements of this Section, those stated in the advertise‐ ment for bids, and those required on the bid form shall not be considered as informalities and shall not be waived by any public entity. When this project is fi‐ nanced either partially or entirely with State Bonds or federal funds, the award of this Contract is contingent upon the granting of lines of credit, the sale of bonds by the Bond Commission or the commitment of federal funds. The Uni‐ versity shall incur no obligation to the Con‐ tractor until the Contract Between Owner and Con‐ tractor is fully executed. 172133 Jan. 8, 15, 22, 3t $201.66 PUBLIC NOTICE --NOTICE TO BIDDERS SP# 940 Sealed bids will be re‐ ceived by the Procure‐ ment Section of the Divi‐ sion of Administration, 1201 N. 3rd. St., 2nd. Floor, Suite 2-160, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, at 10:00 A.M. for the follow‐ ing: RFx No. 3000025751, Courier Services State Li‐

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

braries - CRT, 01/27/26 RFx No. 3000025805, Wheel Load Weighers – DOTD, 02/03/26 RFx No. 3000025806, Hy‐ draulic Test Bench – DOTD, 02/03/26 RFx No. 3000025826, *Rebid* Asphalt Court Repair – DOC, 02/03/26 Bid proposal forms, in‐ formation and specifica‐ tions may be obtained by accessing the bid num‐ ber in LaPac at www.doa. Louisiana.gov/osp or from the procurement section listed above. No bids will be received after the date and hour specified. The right is re‐ served to reject any and all bids and to waive any informalities. Tom Ketterer Director of State Procurement FAX (225) 342-8688 173884-jan 15-1t $14.05 PUBLIC NOTICE --REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING/DESIGN SERVICES FOR CITY OF CENTRAL STORMWATER SYSTEM IMPROVEMENTS Solicitation No: 2026-001 Submission Deadline: Friday, January 30, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. CST The City of Central (“Cen‐ tral”) invites qualified firms to respond to this Request for Qualifica‐ tions (“RFQ”) by provid‐ ing a Statement of Quali‐ fications (“Statement”) demonstrating the firm’s experience with similar projects and professional qualifications. Central seeks to contract with an Engineering/Design firm licensed in Louisiana and experienced in providing design and construction phase services for the Culvert Replacement Pro‐ ject (“Project”). The full RFQ and specifications can be found at www. centralgov.com and www.centralbidding. com. Two printed copies of Statement and an elec‐ tronic version in PDF for‐ mat must be submitted to: City of Central Mayor’s Office, City Hall 13421 Hooper Road, Suite 8 Central, LA 70818

Or submitted to: www. centralbidding.com on or before Friday, January 30, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. CST. Respondents are solely responsible for the timely delivery of State‐ ments. Failure to meet the deadline shall dis‐ qualify Respondent. 172913 Jan. 15, 1t $22.63 PUBLIC NOTICE --The Interlocal Purchas‐ ing System (TIPS) has posted procurement so‐ licitations at www.tipsusa.com for the following categories: 260101 Assistive Technol‐ ogy Goods and Services 260102 Comprehensive Facilities Management and Services 260103 Janitorial and Sanitation Supplies and Services 260104 Trades, Labor, and Materials (2 Part with JOC) 260105 Technology Solu‐ tions, Products, and Ser‐ vices The proposal is due and b ill b d

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Public Notices Bids/Proposals p p will be opened on Febru‐ ary 20, 2026, at 3:00 pm local time. Call 866-8398477 for problems with website or questions. 170257-jan 8-15-2t $189.20

Public Notices Conservation

PUBLIC NOTICE --AR:lck Approval Date: January 27, 2026 RE: LAFOURCHE CROSSING FIELD 29-K-1 LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF LOUISIANA, DE‐ PARTMENT OF CONSER‐ VATION AND ENERGY, BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA. In accordance with the laws of the State of Louisiana, and with par‐ ticular reference to the provisions of Title 30 of Louisiana Revised Statutes of 1950 and Statewide Order No. 29K-1, the following notice is given: Please be advised that Square Mile Energy, L.L.C. has made application to designate their proposed ROB L RC SUA; Bourgeois Et Al No. 001 Well, lo‐ cated Section 16, Town‐ ship 15 South, Range 17 East, as the substitute unit well for the ROB L RC SUA, Lafourche Crossing Field, Lafourche Parish, Louisiana, which unit was created by the De‐ partment of Conserva‐ tion and Energy Order No. 63-R-1 effective De‐ cember 10, 2023. This proposed well is to be substituted for the ROB L RC SUA; Kearns No. 001 Well (SN 247735) which has experienced me‐ chanical problems and has been taken off pro‐ duction. Application review by the Department of Conserva‐ tion and Energy indicates that all requirements of Statewide Order No. 29K-1, which governs the designation of substitute unit wells, have been met. Should any interested party feel that this appli‐ cation for the designa‐ tion of the substitute unit well should not be ap‐ proved, he is afforded the opportunity to make his objections known within the ten (10) calen‐ dar day period following the date of this Notice by filing an application for a public hearing in accor‐ dance with LAC 43:XIX.3901 et seq. (Rules of Procedure) along with the $755 fee referencing this notice and his oppo‐ sition thereto to the De‐ partment of Conserva‐ tion and Energy, P. O. Box 94275, Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9275, with copies to the other parties as specified in the rules. In the absence of the timely filing of a proper and complete application for public hearing including applicable fee, a Supple‐ mental Order will be is‐ sued designating the substitute unit well as re‐ quested by the applicant. With respect to the com‐ putation of said ten (10) calendar day period of time allowed for receiv‐ ing written application for public hearing, the date of this Legal Notice and the approval date shall not be included. In the event the last day of said ten (10) calendar day period falls on a Sat‐ urday, Sunday or a legal holiday, it shall be under‐ stood that the last day of said ten (10) calendar day period will then be considered to be the fol‐ lowing Monday or the day following the legal h lid

Public Notices Conservation y g g holiday. A copy of this application is available for inspec‐ tion in the Department of Conservation and Energy in Baton Rouge and Lafayette, Louisiana. All parties having inter‐ est therein shall take no‐ tice thereof. BY ORDER OF: DUSTIN H. DAVIDSON, SECRETARY DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION AND ENERGY Paper Applicant Dist. Mgr. Permit A. Roussell File 173876 Jan. 15, 1t $64.21

Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE (NOTICE OF INTENTION TO INTRODUCE LOCAL BILL – HLS 26RS-116) Public notice is hereby given, as provided by Section 13, Article III of the Constitution of Louisiana, that there will be introduced at the forthcoming session of the Legislature of Louisiana, to be con‐ vened on March 9, 2026, a bill relative to East Baton Rouge Parish; to provide relative to the Melrose East Crime Prevention District and the Old Goodwood Crime Preven‐ tion and Neighborhood Improvement District; to provide relative to the boundaries of the dis‐ tricts; and to provide for related matters. 173849 Jan. 15, 16, 17, 3t $50.02 PUBLIC NOTICE --(NOTICE OF INTENTION TO INTRODUCE LOCAL BILL – HLS 26RS-328) Public notice is hereby given, as provided by Section 13, Article III of the Constitution of Louisiana, that there will be introduced at the forthcoming session of the Legislature of Louisiana, to be con‐ vened on March 9, 2026, a bill relative to East Baton Rouge Parish; to provide relative to the Jefferson Place/Bocage Crime Pre‐ vention and Improve‐ ment District; to provide relative to the parcel fee imposed within the dis‐ trict; to increase the maximum parcel fee au‐ thorized to be imposed from $540 to $1,200 per parcel per year and the maximum parcel fee au‐ thorized to be imposed for the initial calendar year from $500 to $1,000, subject to voter ap‐ proval; to authorize the district's governing board to increase the fee, without election, not to exceed the maximum amount; and to provide for related matters. 173510-jan 13-14-15-3t $62.02 PUBLIC NOTICE --(NOTICE OF INTENTION TO INTRODUCE RETIREMENT BILL – HLS 26RS-406) Public notice is hereby given, as provided by Section 29(C), Article X of the Constitution of Louisiana, that there will be introduced at the forthcoming session of the Legislature of Louisiana, to be con‐ vened on March 9, 2026, a bill relative to the Asses‐

Place a Classified ad?

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sors' Retirement Fund; to provide relative to cor‐ rection of administrative errors; and to provide for related matters.

C. Receive as Information 1. School Presentation Park Elementary School Presentation

PUBLIC NOTICE After pursuant to and in compliance with the Louisiana Local Govern‐ ment Budget Act 186 of 1984, the proposed amended 2025 budgets for the General Fund and IV-D Fund have been adopted by the District Attorney, 18 th Judicial District, relative to the public meeting held on Monday, December 29, 2025 at 9:00 A.M. at the District Attorney ' s Of‐ fice, 58020 Court Street Suite D, Plaquemine, Louisiana. Said notice of the public hearing for the proposed amended 2025 budgets for the General Fund and IV-D fund was published on December 16 , 2025. 173839 Jan. 15, 1t $94.32 PUBLIC NOTICE After pursuant to and in compliance with the Louisiana Local Govern‐ ment Budget Act 186 of 1984, the proposed 2026 budgets for the General Fun d, IV-D Fund, and Worthless Check Fund, have been adopted by the District Attorney, 18 th Judicial District, rela‐ tive to the public meet‐ ing held on Monday, De‐ cember 29, 2025 at 9:00 A.M. Said notice of the public hearing for the proposed 2026 budgets for the General Fund, IV-D Fund, and Worthless Check Fund was pub‐ lished on December 16, 2025. 173844 Jan. 15, 1t $89.21 PUBLIC NOTICE --Committee of the Whole - Nov 06 2025 Minutes Thursday, November 6, 2025 at 5:00 PM 1050 South Foster Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70806 A. Meeting Opening 1. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance The Invocation was led by School Board Member Carla Powell Lewis, and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by School Board Member Cliff Lewis. 2. Call to Order and Roll Call Members Present: Mark Bellue, Carla Powell Lewis, Shashonnie Stew‐ ard, Cliff Lewis, Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, Emily Soulé, and Patrick Martin Members Late: Dadrius Lanus Others Present: LaMont Cole, Superintendent; Adam Smith, Deputy Su‐ perintendent; Gwynn Shamlin Jr., General Counsel; Catasha Ed‐ wards, Chief Academic Officer; Andrea O’Konski, Chief of Accountability and Assessments; James Crochet, Chief Business Operations Officer; John McCann, Interim Chief Operations Officer; Kelly Lopez, Chief Financial Of‐ ficer; Kwesi Gilbert, Chief Plant Operations; of Stacey Dupre, Chief of Support and Special Pro‐ jects; Tiffany Jenkins, Chief Student Services Officer; and Lisa Smoth‐ ers, Chief Officer-Human Resources. B. Information Only 1. Fiscal Transparency Report

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Legal Notices

173621-jan 14-15-2t $39.38

FREE RENT 225-351-7449

MOBILE HOME 1, 2 & 3 BR mobile homes, $675 & up 6061 Plank Rd. CALL 225-978-4653

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AREA 4 We are Closing our Doors & Selling everything from the Office & many items from Home. 6416 Guinn Dr. Fri/Sat 7a-3p. Items will include: desks, chairs, filing cabinets, several tvs, tv stand, kitchenware & dishes, crawfish pot & burner, wheelchairs & medical equip, exercise & safety equip, ladders, lots of yard & work tools, work boots, artwork, large office printer, vinyl albums & more.

D. Items for Considera‐ tion 1. Resolution & Coopera‐ tive Endeavor Agree‐ ments (CEA): Louisiana Department of Treasury Approval for the follow‐ ing: a) approval of a resolu‐ tion authorizing the Su‐ perintendent to sign con‐ tracts and binding agree‐ ments. b) approval of the autho‐ rization for the superin‐ tendent to execute a CEA provided by the Louisiana Department of the Treasury and the State of Louisiana for the following: 1. $50,000 to provide mu‐ sical instruments for multiple schools. 2. $25,000 to enhance the Sport Medicine/Medical and Agricul‐ ture/Aquaponics curricu‐ lum at Northeast High. Moved by: Carla Powell Lewis Seconded by: Patrick Martin Yea Mark Bellue, Dadrius Lanus, Carla Powell Lewis, Shashonnie Stew‐ ard, Cliff Lewis, Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, Emily Soulé, and Patrick Martin Motion Carries 9-0 2. Professional Services Contract: Everyday Labs, Inc. Approval of a profes‐ sional services contract between the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board and EveryDay Labs, Inc., in the amount of $138,176.17 to imple‐ ment a personalized at‐ tendance intervention and engagement solutions for middle and high school students. Funding Source: Title IV Moved by: Dadrius Lanus Seconded by: Shashon‐ nie Steward Yea Carla Powell Lewis, Cliff Lewis, Dadrius Lanus, Emily Soulé, Mark Bellue, Michael Gaudet, Nathan Rust, Patrick Martin, and Shashonnie Steward Motion Carries 9-0 3. Graduation Agree‐ ments Approval of an agree‐ ment between the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board and the fol‐ lowing: a) Southern University in the amount of $132,965 for the rental of the FG Clark Activity Center for high school graduations. b) Louisiana State Uni‐ versity in the amount of $58,000 for the rental of the Pete Maravich As‐ sembly Center for high school graduations. Moved by: Shashonnie Steward Seconded by: Cliff Lewis Yea Mark Bellue, Shashonnie Steward, Cliff Lewis, Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, and Emily Soulé Recuse Dadrius Lanus, Carla Powell Lewis, and Patrick Martin Motion Carries 6-0 4. Oversight Committee Financial Update Approval of the Semi-An‐ nual Financial Tax Plan Update and the 2024-2025 Preliminary Actual Re‐ sults for propositions 1, 2, and 3. Moved by: Shashonnie Steward Seconded by: Cliff Lewis Yea Mark Bellue, Dadrius Lanus, Carla Powell Lewis, Shashonnie Stew‐ ard, Cliff Lewis, Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, and Patrick Martin

Automotive FORD F900 Ford F900, 1990, 7.8 L, auto trans, runs great, $4K (225) 225-316-4148 David

Legal Notices

Not Present at Emily Soulé Motion Carries 8-0

Vote:

5. Test Security Policy Approval of the 2025-2026 East Baton Rouge Parish School System's Test Se‐ curity Policy. Moved by: Carla Powell Lewis Seconded by: Shashon‐ nie Steward Yea Mark Bellue, Dadrius Lanus, Carla Powell Lewis, Shashonnie Stew‐ ard, Cliff Lewis, Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, and Patrick Martin Not Present at Vote: Emily Soulé Motion Carries 8-0 6. Policy Revisions (Human Resources) Approval of the following policy revisions: a) GAAA-Equal Opportu‐ nity Employment b) JAA-Equal Education Opportunities Moved by: Patrick Martin Seconded by: Cliff Lewis Yea Mark Bellue, Dadrius Lanus, Carla Powell Lewis, Shashonnie Stew‐ ard, Cliff Lewis, Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, Emily Soulé, and Patrick Martin Motion Carries 9-0 7. Policy Revisions (Ex‐ ceptional Student Ser‐ vices) Approval of the following policy revisions: a) IDDF-Education of Stu‐ dents with Exceptionali‐ ties b) IDDFC-Camera in Spe‐ cial Education Class‐ rooms c) JD-Discipline Moved by: Patrick Martin Seconded by: Shashon‐ nie Steward Yea Mark Bellue, Dadrius Lanus, Carla Powell Lewis, Shashonnie Stew‐ ard, Cliff Lewis, Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, Emily Soulé, and Patrick Martin Motion Carries 9-0 8. Charter School Re‐ newal: Community School for Apprentice‐ ship Learning Approval to renew the charter school agree‐ ment with CSAL Middle and provide for related matters.

Legal Notices

Yea Mark Bellue, Dadrius Lanus, Carla Powell Lewis, Shashonnie Stew‐ ard, Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, Emily Soulé, and Patrick Martin Recuse Cliff Lewis Motion Carries 8-0 11. Contract Amendment: CSRS/Tillage Approval of an amend‐ ment of the program management agreement between the East Baton Rouge Parish School Board and CSRS|Tillage in the amount of $1,850,000 to provide a facility master plan with recommendations of a Capital Improvement Plan and to send to the Oversight Committee for approval to fund the amendment from Propo‐ sition 1. Moved by: Carla Powell Lewis Seconded by: Patrick Martin Yea Mark Bellue, Dadrius Lanus, Carla Powell Lewis, Shashonnie Stew‐ ard, Cliff Lewis, Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, Emily Soulé, and Patrick Martin Motion Carries 9-0 E. Next Meeting Dates/Announcements F. Adjournment There being no further business, the Board ad‐ journed by acclamation. LaMont Cole Secretary/Treasurer, EBRP School Board Shashonnie Steward School Board President 173950-jan 16-1t $129.75 PUBLIC NOTICE --IBERVILLE PARISH COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING TUESDAY, JANUARY 20, 2026 AT 6:30 P.M. IBERVILLE PARISH COUNCIL 58050 MERIAM STREET, PLAQUEMINE, LOUISIANA 70764 AGENDA 1) Call to order 2) Pledge of Allegiance

Moved by: Carla Powell Lewis Seconded by: Patrick Martin

3) Public Comments (Must register with the Clerk, please see dis‐ claimer below.*)

Yea Mark Bellue, Dadrius Lanus, Carla Powell Lewis, Shashonnie Stew‐ ard, Cliff Lewis, Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, Emily Soulé, and Patrick Martin Motion Carries 9-0

4) Election of Chairman

9. Charter School Re‐ newal: The Emerge School for Autism Approval to renew the charter school agree‐ ment with The Emerge School for Autism and provide for related mat‐ ters.

7) Presentations and Ap‐ pearances

Moved by: Patrick Martin Seconded by: Cliff Lewis

5) Election of Vice Chair‐ man 6) Addendum A) None.

A) Resolution of Recogni‐ tion for North Iberville High School for making it to the 2025 LHSAA Foot‐ ball Playoff B) Resolution of Recogni‐ tion for the retirement of Judge Alvin Batiste Jr.

Yea Mark Bellue, Dadrius Lanus, Carla Powell Lewis, Shashonnie Stew‐ ard, Cliff Lewis, Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, Emily Soulé, and Patrick Martin Motion Carries 9-0

C) Announcing Candi‐ dacy for State Represen‐ tative District 60 – Cha‐ sity Martinez

10. Charter School Re‐ newal: South Baton Rouge Charter Academy Approval to renew the charter school agree‐ ment with South Baton Rouge Charter Academy and provide for related matters.

10) Financial Report

Moved by: Patrick Martin Seconded by: Shashon‐ nie Steward

8) Reading and Approval of Minutes 9) President’s Report

11) Old Business 1) None. 12) New Business A) Motion to reschedule the February 17, 2026 Council Meeting to Tues‐ day, February 24, 2026

The Advocate ■ theadvocate.com ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ 7D

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8D ■ Thursday, January 15, 2026 ■ theadvocate.com ■ The Advocate Legal Notices

Legal Notices

B) Introduction of Ordi‐ nances 1. Ordinance to amend portions of Chapter 9 of the compiled Ordinances of Iberville Parish enti‐ tled “Garbage, Trash and Disposal”, Article III enti‐ tled “Solid Waste Collec‐ tion and Disposal”, Sec‐ tion 9-36 entitled “Intent and Purpose” through Section 9-45 entitled “Vi‐ olations, Penalty”. Set for public hearing on Febru‐ ary 24, 2026

approx.. 3 miles north‐ east of Plattenville, LA. Proposed Description: anomaly dig and associ‐ ated repair. The dimen‐ sions of the anomaly dig will measure approx. 100' long by 75' wide and 16' deep resulting in an ex‐ cavated volume of 1,423 c. y. Excavated material will be placed in a tem‐ porary spoil pile located directly east of the dig site and used for backﬁll once repair is complete.

13) Resolution Commit‐ tee Report

174044 Jan. 15, 1t $20.91

A) Approve Resolution in opposition to any Legis‐ lation to provide for Cen‐ tralized Sales and Use Tax to be administered by the State of Louisiana Department of Revenue B) Approve Resolution to authorize Parish Presi‐ dent to apply for Better Utilizing Investments to Development Leverage (BUILD) Grant Program C) Approve Resolution authorizing the Iberville Parish President to exe‐ cute an intergovernmen‐ tal agreement between Iberville Parish Govern‐ ment and the city of St. Gabriel for utility ser‐ vices related to sewer enforcement D) Approve Resolution authorizing the Iberville Parish President to exe‐ cute any and all docu‐ ments and contracts re‐ lated to a Louisiana De‐ partment of Wildlife and Fisheries project in con‐ junction with a United States Fish and Wildlife Service Grant for the Planning and Develop‐ ment of a shotgun range at the existing ﬁring range site; and to pro‐ vide for related matters E) Approve Resolution authorizing the Parish President to sign an in‐ tergovernmental agree‐ ment on behalf of the Parish of Iberville with the Louisiana Depart‐ ment of Transportation and Development to es‐ tablish a detour route for bridge replacement on Callegan Road 14) Planning Commission Report A) Approve Considera‐ tion of re-subdivision for Texas Williams B) Approve Considera‐ tion of re-subdivision for Myrick & Kent C) Approve Considera‐ tion of re-subdivision for Chris Elliot 15) Boards and Commis‐ sions Report A) None. 16) Discussions A) VLS Environmental So‐ lutions 17) Correspondence A) None 18) Adjournment Macy W. Ourso, Council Clerk In accordance with the Americans with Disabili‐ ties Act, if you need spe‐ cial assistance for the meeting, please contact Iberville Parish Council at (225) 687-5190, de‐ scribing the assistance that is necessary. *In accordance with LASR.S. 42:14, the public will be allowed to speak on agenda items only, for a maximum of 3 minutes. Iberville Parish Council meetings are accessible for public viewing on our website IbervilleParish.com 1-15-2026 173863-jan 15-1t $69.11 PUBLIC NOTICE --NOTICE the La. Dept. of Conservation and Energy, Ofﬁce of Permitting and Compliance (OPC) has received the following a for application(s) Coastal Use Permit (CUP) in accordance with La. R.S. 49:214.21-214.41, and the rules of the Coastal Program. Management Applications for the pro‐ posed work may be in‐ spected at 617 North 3rd Street, Room 1078, Baton Rouge, LA or on the OPC web page at: https:// denr.louisiana.gov/page/ Copies public-notices. available; costs are apply. Written comments are solicited from the public, but must be re‐ ceived within 25 days of this notice, preferably uploaded directly to our electronic record, but may be emailed, or mailed to: OPC Adminis‐ trator, Kyle Balkum, P.O. Box 44487, Baton Rouge, LA 70804-4487. All com‐ ments must contain the appropriate CUP number and the commenter's full name and contact infor‐ mation. Below are the applica‐ referenced tion(s): ********* CUP NUMBER: P20250992 lorna.putnamEmail: Name: duhon2@la.gov Pipeline Exxonmobil Company, Llc c/o Matrix New World Engineering 6717 COMPLEX DRIVE BATON ROUGE, LA 70809 Attn: Jonathan Deshotels Assumption Location: Parish, LA; Lat 30-0Long 90-5852.56N, 54.56W; Section 44 T12S R15E; Parcel# 100076902;

PUBLIC NOTICE --RE: Final Notice of Pro‐ posed Activity in a Flood‐ plain or Wetland: Lower Bayou Conway Drainage Improvements To: All interested Federal, State, and Local Agen‐ cies, Groups, and Individ‐ uals This is to give notice that the Ascension Parish Government (APG) under 24 CFR Part 58 has con‐ ducted an evaluation of proposed action this under Louisiana Commu‐ nity Development Block Grant (CDBG-MIT) num‐ B-18-DP-22ber lo‐ 0001/03MTR27702 cated in the 100-year floodplain Zone AE/Fed‐ eral Flood Risk Manage‐ ment Standard (FFRMS) riverine floodplain/wet‐ land as required by Exec‐ utive Orders 11988 (Floodplain Manage‐ ment) and 11990 (Protec‐ tion of Wetlands), in ac‐ cordance with HUD regu‐ lations at 24 CFR 55.20 Subpart C Procedures for Making Determinations on Floodplain Manage‐ ment. Extent of FFRMS floodplain was deter‐ mined using the free‐ board value approach. Ascension Parish Gov‐ ernment proposes to im‐ plement flood hazard measures mitigation within the Lower Bayou Conway Watershed. The proposed project is lo‐ cated on Lower Bayou Conway in the town of Sorrento, Louisiana in Ascension Parish. The proposed project spans from 30° 10’ 30.51” N, 90° 52’ 20.18” W to 30° 10’ 30.68” N, 90° 51’ 59.42” W on a 14.71-acre site. The proposed project in‐ cludes culvert replace‐ ments and the installa‐ tion of a detention pond and pump station. These improvements are essen‐ tial to protecting sur‐ communities rounding from hazardous flooding, safeguarding infrastruc‐ ture, and supporting un‐ interrupted local com‐ merce. Existing under‐ sized culverts will be re‐ placed with wider cul‐ verts to allow for in‐ creased drainage capac‐ ity. A new pump station will increase the sys‐ tem’s hydrologic capac‐ ity and allow higher vol‐ umes of stormwater to be conveyed more effi‐ ciently. The detention pond will provide critical stormwater additional storage. The proposed project will require excavation of canals segments where existing widths are insuf‐ to convey ficient stormwater or to accom‐ modate the construction of the detention pond. Disturbances along canal banks will be minimized and impacts to wetlands will be avoided to the maximum extent practi‐ cable. Vegetation that has been cleared on site will be burned on site. Excavated material will be transported to an up‐ land disposal site off LA Highway 22 located at 30° 09’ 03.12” N, 90° 54’45.62” W. APG rejects the no action alternative as it would not improve flood haz‐ ards. After coordination with agencies, reviewing following alternatives early public notice pe‐ riod in which no re‐ sponses were received, and the fact that the pro‐ posed work is to improve drainage in the surround‐ residential area ing which is essential in pro‐ tecting surrounding com‐ munities and infrastruc‐ ture, APG determined that it has no practicable alternative to floodplain development. There are three primary purposes for this notice. First, people who may be affected by activities in floodplains and those who have an interest in the protection of the nat‐ ural environment should be given the opportunity to express their concerns and provide information about these areas. Sec‐ ond, an adequate public notice program can be an important public edu‐ cational tool. The dis‐ semination of informa‐ tion about floodplains can facilitate and en‐ hance Federal efforts to reduce the risks associ‐ ated with the temporary impacts to the special areas. Third, as a matter of fairness, when the Federal government de‐ termines it will partici‐ pate in actions taking place in floodplains, it must inform those who may be put at a greater or continued risk. Written comments must be received by Carrie Schott at ELOS Environ‐ mental on behalf of As‐ cension Parish Govern‐ ment at the following ad‐ dress on or before Febru‐ ary 1st, 2026, during the h f d

lll

Legal Notices

y g hours of 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM.

q pp nity Employment b) JAA-Equal Education Opportunities 6. Policy Revisions (Ex‐ ceptional Student Ser‐ vices) Approval of the following policy revisions: a) IDDF-Education of Stu‐ dents with Exceptionali‐ ties b) IDDFC-Camera in Spe‐ Education Class‐ cial rooms c) JD-Discipline 7. Charter School Re‐ Community newal: School for Apprentice‐ ship Learning Approval to renew the charter school agree‐ ment with CSAL Middle and provide for related matters. 8. Charter School Re‐ The Emerge newal: School for Autism Approval to renew the charter school agree‐ ment with The Emerge School for Autism and provide for related mat‐ ters. 9. Charter School Re‐ South Baton newal: Rouge Charter Academy Approval to renew the charter school agree‐ ment with South Baton Rouge Charter Academy and provide for related matters. 10. Contract Amendment: CSRS|Tillage Approval of an amend‐ ment of the program management agreement between the East Baton Parish School Rouge Board and CSRS|Tillage the amount of in $1,850,000 to provide a facility master plan with recommendations of a Improvement Capital Plan.

Carrie Schott Project Manager/Envi‐ ronmental Scientist ELOS Environmental, LLC 607 W Morris Ave Hammond, LA 70403 cschott@elosenv.com 173565-jan 15-22-29-3t $1,450 PUBLIC NOTICE --Regular Meeting Nov 20 2025 Minutes Thursday, November 20, 2025 at 5:00 PM 1050 South Foster Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70806 A. Meeting Opening 1. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance The Invocation was led by School Board Member Nathan Rust, and the Pledge of Allegiance will be led by Cadet 1st Lieu‐ tenant Kennedy Nguyen of Liberty High School, accompanied by Colonel (retired) Jona Hughes. 2. Call to Order and Roll Call President Steward called the meeting to order at 5:07 PM. Members Present: Mark Bellue, Shashonnie Stew‐ Nathan Rust, ard, Michael Gaudet, Emily Soulé, and Patrick Martin Members Absent: Dadrius Lanus and Cliff Lewis Members Late: Carla Powell Lewis Others Present: LaMont Superintendent; Cole, Adam Smith, Deputy Su‐ Gwynn perintendent; Jr., General Shamlin Counsel; Catasha Ed‐ wards, Chief Academic Officer; Amy Jones, Chief Technology Officer; An‐ drea O’Konski, Chief of Accountability and As‐ sessments; Lisa Smoth‐ ers, Chief Officer-Human Resources; James Cro‐ chet, Chief Business Op‐ erations Officer; John McCann, Interim Chief Operations Officer; Kelly Lopez, Chief Financial Of‐ ficer; Laura Williams, Chief of Schools; Kwesi Gilbert, Chief of Plant Op‐ erations; Stacey Dupre, Chief of Support and Special Projects; and Tiffany Jenkins, Chief Student Services Officer B. Minutes 1. Meeting Minutes Approval of the School Board minutes of the Oc‐ tober 2, 2025, Committee of the Whole meeting, and the October 16, 2025, Regular Board meeting, as published in the Offi‐ cial Journal. Moved by: Patrick Martin Seconded by: Nathan Rust Yea Mark Bellue, Steward, Shashonnie Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, Emily Soulé, and Patrick Martin Motion Carries 6-0 C. Information Only 1. Monthly Financial Re‐ port 2. Personnel Changes D. Receive as Information 1. Update from the Su‐ perintendent E. Reports from Board Appointees to Commit‐ tees/Agencies 1. Board Appointees F. Consent Agenda The following items are to be approved as part of the Consent Agenda, ex‐ cluding item #3 (Gradua‐ tion Agreements) Moved by: Patrick Martin Seconded by: Carla Pow‐ ell Lewis Yea Mark Bellue, Carla Powell Lewis, Shashonnie Steward, Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, Emily Soulé, and Patrick Martin Motion Carries 7-0 1. Resolution & Coopera‐ Endeavor Agree‐ tive ments (CEA): Louisiana Department of Treasury Approval of the follow‐ ing: a) a resolution au‐ thorizing the Superinten‐ dent to sign contracts and binding agreements. b) the authorization for the superintendent to ex‐ ecute a CEA provided by the Louisiana Depart‐ ment of the Treasury and the State of Louisiana for the following: 1. $50,000 to provide mu‐ instruments for sical multiple schools. 2. $25,000 to enhance the Sport Medicine/Medical Agricul‐ and ture/Aquaponics curricu‐ lum at Northeast High. 2. Professional Services Contract: Everyday Labs, Inc. Approval of a profes‐ sional services contract between the East Baton Parish School Rouge and EveryDay Board Labs, Inc. in the amount of $138,176.17 to provide and implement a person‐ alized attendance inter‐ vention and engagement solution for middle and high school Funding students. Source: Title IV 3. Oversight Committee Financial Update Approval of the Semi-An‐ nual Financial Tax Plan Update and the 2024-2025 Preliminary Actual Re‐ sults for propositions 1, 2, and 3. 4. Test Security Policy Approval of the 2025-2026 East Baton Rouge Parish School System's Test Se‐ curity Policy. 5. Policy Revisions (Human Resources) Approval of the following policy revisions: a) GAAA-Equal Opportu‐ i l

G. Pulled Consent Agenda Items 1. Graduation Agree‐ ments Approval of an agree‐ ment between the East Rouge Parish Baton School Board and the fol‐ lowing: a) Southern University in the amount of $132,965 for the rental of the FG Clark Activity Center for high school graduations. b) Louisiana State Uni‐ versity in the amount of $58,000 for the rental of the Pete Maravich As‐ sembly Center for high school graduations. Moved by: Nathan Rust Seconded by: Emily Soulé Mark Bellue, Yea Steward, Shashonnie Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, and Emily Soulé Recuse Patrick Martin Not Present at Vote Carla Powell Lewis Motion Carries 5-0 H. New Business 1. ITEP: International Mezzo Technologies, Inc. Motion to approve the application from Interna‐ tional Mezzo Technolo‐ gies, Inc. (20230012-ITE) for an Industrial Tax Ex‐ and related emption matters. Moved by: Patrick Martin Seconded by: Emily Soulé Yea Mark Bellue, Carla Powell Lewis, Shashonnie Steward, Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, Emily Soulé, and Patrick Martin Motion Carries 7-0 2. Student Expulsion Discussion/Considera‐ tion of a request to ap‐ peal a student expulsion. No motion, the expulsion will be upheld. 3. Appeal Hearing-Stu‐ dent Expulsion Request to appeal a stu‐ dent expulsion. Motion to enter into ex‐ ecutive session Moved by: Nathan Rust Seconded by: Carla Pow‐ ell Lewis Yea Mark Bellue, Carla Powell Lewis, Shashonnie Steward, Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, Emily Soulé, and Patrick Martin Motion Carries 7-0 Motion to uphold the Su‐ recom‐ perintendent's mendation. Moved by: Patrick Martin Seconded by: Emily Soulé Yea Mark Bellue, Carla Powell Lewis, Shashonnie Steward, Nathan Rust, Michael Gaudet, Emily Soulé, and Patrick Martin Motion Carries 7-0 I. Organizational Items 1. Announcement of Meetings J. Adjournment 173949-jan 15-1t $112.91

Public Notices Meet/Hear/Min

PUBLIC NOTICE --Central Community Schools School Board Meeting 12/08/2025 06:00 PM Central Administrative Ofﬁce 11576 Sullivan Road Central, LA 70818 MEETING MINUTES _______________ Voting Members Roxanne Atkinson, Board President Michael Hooper, Vice President Jason Leaphart, Board Member Dr. G. David Walker, Board Member Nick Carmena, Board Member Mike Davis, Board Member Carol Norwood,

Public Notices Meet/Hear/Min

Board Member __________________ 1. Call to Order Chairperson Roxanne Atkinson called to order the Regular School Board Meeting of the Central Community School Board on Monday, December 8, 2025, at the Central Ad‐ ministrative Office, at 6:00 P.M. 2. Prayer Prayer led by Ron Erickson 3. Pledge 4. Roll Call Tracy Barnes conducted a roll call. The following persons were present: Roxanne Atkinson, Nick Carmena, Mike Davis, Michael Hooper, Jason Leaphart, Carol Norwood and David Walker. A quo‐ rum was present. 5. Recognitions Christmas Cards The following students were recognized as the 2025 CCSS Christmas Card Art Contest Win‐ ners: Tyson Baker - Bellingrath Hills Elementary School River Jarreau - Tangle‐ wood Elementary School Emmitt McCurnin - Cen‐ tral Intermediate School Khristyn Box - Central Middle School Carrie LeBlanc & Allison Osborne - Central High School (District Winner) 6. To consider approval of the minutes from the Regular School Board Meeting held on Monday, November 10, 2025 and take appropriate action. A motion was made by Mr. Hooper and sec‐ onded by Ms. Norwood to the minutes approve from the Regular School Board Meeting held on Monday, November 10, 2025. There being no ob‐ the motion jections, passed. 7. To receive the Superintendent's report on personnel. (Dr. Fountain) Board members received a report of one (1) Retire‐ ment. This was a report only and required no ac‐ tion. Board members received a report of two (2) Resig‐ nations. This was a re‐ port only and required no action. Board members received a report of three (3) Ap‐ pointments. This was a report only and required no action. 8. To receive a report from the Facilities/Equip‐ ment Committee Meeting held on Monday, Decem‐ ber 1, 2025 and take ap‐ propriate action regard‐ ing the following: a. Presentation from Salus Facilities Assur‐ ance Committee members re‐ ceived a presentation from Salus Facilities As‐ surance. This was a re‐ port only and required no action. 9. To receive a report from the Finance Com‐ mittee Meeting held on Monday, December 1, 2025 and take appropri‐ ate action regarding the following: a. Revised General Fund Budget for the 2025-2026 Fiscal Year The committee recom‐ mended approval of the Revised General Fund Budget for the 2025-2026 Fiscal Year, as presented by the staff. A motion was made by Mr. Hooper to approve the commit‐ recommendation. tee's There being no objec‐ tions, the motion passed. b. Revised Capital Pro‐ jects Budget for the 20252026 Fiscal Year The committee recom‐ mended approval of the Revised Capital Projects Budget for the 2025-2026 Fiscal Year, as presented by the staff. A motion was made by Mr. Hooper to approve the commit‐ recommendation. tee's There being no objec‐ tions, the motion passed. 10. To receive a report from the Human Re‐ sources/Policies Com‐ mittee Meeting held on Monday, December 1, 2025 and take appropri‐ ate action regarding the following: a. 1st Reading of the fol‐ lowing Revised Policies in the Central Commu‐ nity School System Pol‐ icy Manual: Committee members re‐ ceived a 1st Reading of several revised policies. This was a report only and required no action. 1. Policy F-2 - Equal Em‐ ployment Opportunity 2. Policy G-2.4c - Educa‐ tion of Students with Ex‐ ceptionalities 3. Policy G-2.4c.3 - Cam‐ eras in Special Education Classrooms 4. Policy H-1 - Equal Edu‐ cation Opportunities 5. Policy H-3.5 - Discipline 6. Policy H-3.5a - Corporal Punishment b. Standard definition for "retiree" for use in all CCSS policies and benefit eligibility criteria The committee recom‐ mended approval of a standard definition for “retiree” for use in all CCSS policies and bene‐ fi li ibili i i

Public Notices Meet/Hear/Min p fits eligibility criteria, as presented by the staff. A motion was made by Ms. Norwood to approve the committee's recommen‐ dation. There being no objections, the motion passed. 11. To have discussion on revised Policy G-2.4c - Ed‐ ucation of Students with Exceptionalities and take appropriate action. (Dr. Fountain) A motion was made by Dr. Walker and seconded by Ms. Norwood to ap‐ prove the board to tem‐ porarily suspend the pol‐ icy adoption procedures to allow the 2nd Reading of Revised Policy G-2.4c Education of Students with Exceptionalities to be adopted by the board during this board meet‐ ing. A roll call vote was taken for the board to tem‐ porarily suspend the pol‐ icy adoption procedures to allow the 2nd Reading of Revised Policy G-2.4c Education of Students with Exceptionalities and is listed as follows: For: Atkinson, Carmena, Davis, Hooper, Leaphart, Norwood, Walker Against: None Absent: None Abstain: None There being seven (7) votes "For", zero (0) votes "Against", zero (0) votes "Absent", and zero (0) votes "Abstain", the motion passed. A motion was made by Ms. Norwood and sec‐ onded by Mr. Davis to ap‐ prove the adoption of Re‐ vised Policy G-2.4c - Edu‐ cation of Students with Exceptionalities and also procedures and guide‐ lines for the use of crisis including intervention seclusion and physical restraint. There being no objections, the motion passed. 12. To consider approval of proposed Change Or‐ ders for the Baseball Locker Room project and take appropriate action. (Dr. Fountain) A motion was made by Mr. Hooper and sec‐ onded by Mr. Leaphart to approve the following proposed Change Orders for the Baseball Locker Room project: Change Order #5: To re‐ move hat channel at sof‐ fits. This resulted in a credit of $4,587.00. Change Order #6: To re‐ move electrical for bat‐ ting cages. This resulted in a credit of $2,100.00. Change Order #8: To re‐ move electrical for sec‐ tional doors. This re‐ sulted in a credit of $2,750.00. Change Order #9: To change the coach's of‐ fice. This resulted in a credit of $944.90. Change Order #7: To reroute power to the con‐ cession stand. This is an additional cost in the amount of $10,045.61. For all five change or‐ ders, there is a total credit of $336.29. There being no objections, the motion passed. 13. To consider approval of some Out-of-State Field Trip requests and take appropriate action. (Dr. Fountain)

Public Notices Meet/Hear/Min

Courthouse 58050 Meriam Street, Plaquemine, LA 70764 Agenda 1. Roll Call 2. Public Comments (Must register with the Clerk) 3. Election of Chairman 4. Approval of Minutes 5. New Business a. Introduction of re-sub‐ division for Patrick & Maria Ishmael b. Introduction of re-sub‐ division for Thomas & Jamie McQuiston c. Introduction of re-sub‐ division & Variances (2) for Crescent Land Hold‐ ings 1) Variance 1 – Construc‐ tion Standard (Road) 2) Variance 2 – Commu‐ nity Wastewater Treat‐ ment 6. Old Business a. Consideration of resubdivision for Myrick & Kent b. Consideration of resubdivision for Chris El‐ liot

16. Adjourn A motion was made by Dr. Walker to adjourn the meeting. There being no objections, the motion passed. 173988 Jan. 15, 1t $134.47 PUBLIC NOTICE --Iberville Parish Council Advisory Board for Planning and Development P.O. Box 389 Plaquemine, LA 70765 Regular Meeting January 20, 2026 5:15 PM Iberville Parish Council Meeting Room 2nd ﬂoor, Parish

PUBLIC NOTICE --NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING West Baton Rouge Public Notice

An Ordinance To Amend And Reenact The West Baton Rouge Parish Code Of Ordinances, Part II (General Code of Ordi‐ Chapter 70 nances), (“Roads and Drainage”), Section 70-5 (“Bridge Standards and Permit‐ ting).

1/15/2026

An Ordinance To Amend And Reenact Sections 281 (“Created; Purpose; Boundaries”) And 28-4 (“Narrative Description of Subdistrict), Of Article 1 (“West Baton Rouge Parish Fire Protection District No. 1”), Of Chap‐ ter 28 (“Fire Protection And Prevention”), Part II (“Code Of Ordinances”) Of The West Baton Rouge Parish Code Of Ordi‐ nances To Eliminate In‐ dustrial Areas of the Fire District.

173869 Jan. 15, 1t $25.99

WBR Public Notices

WBR Public Notices Bids/Proposals

PUBLIC NOTICE --NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Special Use Permit Request Request: I-1 with a SUP for Plant, Nursery Address: 9268 HWY 190 W Port Allen, LA 70767 Owner: WEST BATON ROUGE DIESEL & AUTO REPAIR LLC Applicant: Grand Bayou Nursery, LLC / Cody Mor‐ gan Property Description: PJ# #2025-0015 as de‐ scribed by the WBR As‐ sessor: TRACT E-1 CONT 2.22 AC IN SEC 28 T6S R11E 14-150 A PUBLIC HEARING will be held by the West Baton Rouge Zoning Commission relative to the rezoning requests. Date: Tuesday February 3, 2026 Time: 5:30pm

Public hearings will be held at the West Baton Rouge Parish Govern‐ mental Building, 880 N. Alexander, Port Allen, LA 70767

b. Committee Meetings Monday, January 26, 2026

172321-jan 15-1t $49.31

In accordance with the Americans with Disabili‐ ties Act, if you need spe‐ cial assistance for the meeting, please contact Iberville Parish Planning Commission at (225) 6875190, describing the as‐ sistance that is neces‐ sary.

8. Discussions

14. Superintendent's Report

a. Next Regular School Board Meeting will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026.

“EQUAL OPPURTUNITY EMPLOYER/PROGRAM” “AUXILIARY AIDS AND SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST TO INDI‐ VIDUALS WITH DISABIL‐ TIES” PHONE (225) 3819931 FAX (225) 381-9921 LOUISIANA RELAY SER‐ VICE (800) 947-5277

9. Adjournment

7. Addendum a. None.

A PUBLIC HEARING will be held by the West Baton Rouge Parish Council relative to the re‐ zoning requests. Date: Thursday February 12, 2026 Time 5:30pm

15. Announcements

p EO Ofﬁcer – WBR Parish Government 225-383-4755 P. O. Box 757 Port Allen, La. 70767 Louisiana Relay Service # 1-800-947-5277 Language Line Services 1-888-808-9008

A motion was made by Mr. Davis and seconded by Dr. Walker to approve the two (2) Out-of-State Field Trip requests from Central Middle School. There being no objec‐ tions, the motion passed.

In basketball, the annual Kinsley Tournament will be going on at CHS this Thursday – Saturday. tournament is This named after Mr. Charles Kinsley. The very ﬁrst tournament was in 1978 making this the 47th. There are lots of Christ‐ mas activities going on in the district from con‐ certs to plays and other activities. Please go to each school’s website and Facebook page to ﬁnd all of the great holi‐ day activities. Christmas break will begin on Mon‐ day, December 22nd and will continue until Tues‐ day, January 6th. Teach‐ ers and staff will return to work on Monday, Jan‐ uary 5th and students will return on Wednes‐ day, January 7, 2026. Our next Committee Meet‐ ings will be Monday, Jan‐ uary 26th. Our next board meeting will be on Mon‐ day, January 12th.

WBR Legal Notices

Publish The Advocate (3) Times: Three 1/15/2026, 1/22/2026, & 1/29/2026 171776 Jan. 15, 22, 29, 3t $55.74

WBR Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE --It is the policy of this agency that no applicant, client, and/or employee of the West Baton Rouge Parish government shall on the basis of Race, Creed, Color, National Origin, Political Affilia‐ tion, Sex, Handicap, Age or any other non – merit factor, be excluded from participation in or be de‐ nied the benefits of, or other-wise be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity, which West Baton Rouge Parish Government oper‐ ates or is applying for funding. No person or the grounds of Race, Creed, Color, Na‐ tion Origin, Political Affil‐ iation, Sex, Handicap, or Age shall be subjected to discrimination, or be de‐ nied employment in con‐ nection with any pro‐ gram or activity receiv‐ ing federal financial as‐ sistance. No person with responsi‐ bilities in the operation or administration of a program receiving fed‐ eral financial assistance will discriminate with re‐ spect to any such pro‐ gram or activity because of Race, Creed, Color, Na‐ tional Origin, Sex, Politi‐ cal Affiliations, Disability or Age. Chance L. Stephens ffi

i h

An Ordinance To Amend And Reenact The West Baton Rouge Parish Code Of Ordinances, Part III Development (“Uniﬁed Chapter 109 Code”), Mainte‐ (“Property nance”), Article V, (Aban‐ Vehicles and doned Junk), And Reenact Sec. 109-104, Sec. 109-106 and Sec. 109-109. A PUBLIC HEARING will be held by the West Baton Rouge Parish Council relative to the re‐ zoning requests. Date: Thursday, January 22, 2026 Time 5:30 pm Public hearings will be held at the West Baton Rouge Parish Govern‐ mental Building, 880 N. Alexander, Port Allen, LA 70767 Publish The Advocate January 15, 2026 173951 Jan. 15, 1t $28.35

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Rouge Parish Govern‐ mental Building, 880 N. Alexander, Port Allen, LA 70767 173954-JAN 15-22-29-3T $81

WBR Public Notices Sheriff Sales

SHERIFF’S SALE RESIDENTIAL PRIMARY INC. VS. MORTGAGE, STRAUGHTER ERNEST AND KIMBERLEE PIERCE, A/K/A KIMBERLEE PIERCE STRAUGHTER DOCKET NO: 50158 18TH JUDICIAL DISTRICT WEST BATON COURT ROUGE PARISH STATE OF LOUISIANA By virtue of a Writ of Seizure and Sale, di‐ rected by the Honorable The Eighteenth Judicial District Court, for the Parish of West Baton Rouge, in the above enti‐ and numbered tled cause, I have seized and proceed to sell by public auction, on the front steps of the West Baton Rouge Courthouse, 850 8th Street, Port Allen, Louisiana on WEDNES‐ DAY, JANUARY 21, 2026 at 10:00 A.M., the following described property, to wit: One (1) certain lot or par‐ cel of ground together with all the buildings and thereon improvements situated in the Parish of West Baton Rouge, State of Louisiana in that sub‐ division known as Sugar Mill Plantation, 10th Fil‐ ing and being designated on the Official Plan of said subdivision on file and of record in the Of‐ fice of the Clerk and Recorder of said Parish and State as Lot Number Five Hundred Seventy Eight (578), said subdivi‐ sion, said lot having such size, shape, and dimen‐ sions and being subject to such servitudes as are shown on said map; sub‐ ject to restrictions, servi‐ tudes, rights-of-way and mineral outstanding rights of record affecting the property. Municipal Address: 4732 Stonewall Drive, Addis, LA 70710 Terms of Sale: Cash payable to the highest bidder WITHOUT benefit of appraisement and ac‐ cording to law. Attorney for the Plaintiff: Dean Morris, LLC 1505 North 19th Street Monroe, LA 71207 (318) 388-1440 Judicial Advertise‐ ment(s) will appear in THE ADVOCATE on the date(s) of: December 18, 2025 and January 15, 2026. JEFF BERGERON, SHERIFF PARISH OF WEST BATON ROUGE BY:ANGIE DELAUNE, DEPUTY SHERIFF $56.72

WBR Public Notices Meet/Hear/Min

PUBLIC NOTICE --NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING West Baton Rouge Public Notice

SEVEN DAYS

Notice Is Hereby Given To All Citizens Of The Parish Of West Baton Rouge, State Of Louisiana, And To All Other Interested Persons, Of The Introduc‐ tion At The Regular Meet‐ ing Of The West Baton Rouge Parish Council Of Proposed Ordi‐ The nance(s) Introduced By Title January 8, 2026 As Set Forth Hereinafter. An Ordinance To Amend And Reenact Part III (Uni‐ ﬁed Development Code) Chapter 101 (General Provisions), Sec. 101-1, (Deﬁnitions), Chapter 104 (“Zoning Ordinance”), Ar‐ ticle II (District Regula‐ tions), Sec. 104-26 (Adop‐ tion, Amendment, and In‐ terpretation of Zoning Districts), Sec. 104-28 (Base District Regula‐ tions By Zoning Dis‐ tricts), Chapter 106 (Site Article II Planning), Manage‐ (Stormwater ment), Sec. 106-23 (Al‐ Plants for lowable Manage‐ Stormwater ment Areas), Article V Open (Yard/Setback, Space And Common Area Requirements), Sec 160137(SO Site Development Regulations), and Appen‐ dix A (“Zoning Districts”), Of The West Baton Rouge Parish Code Of Ordi‐ nances. Public Hearing Date:

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LOUISIANA OWNED

A PUBLIC HEARING will be held by the West Rouge Zoning Baton Commission relative to the rezoning requests. Date: Tuesday, February 3, 2026 Time 5:30 pm A PUBLIC HEARING will be held by the West Rouge Parish Baton Council relative to the re‐ zoning requests. Date: Thursday, February 12, 2026 Time 5:30 pm Public hearings will be held at the West Baton