The Advocate 08-13-2025

LSU CAMP Trey’Dez

Audit finds housing funds mismanaged

Federal probe underway into EBR’s Office of Community Development

BY PATRICK SLOAN-TURNER

Staff writer

The East Baton Rouge Parish

agency that doled out hundreds of millions of dollars in federal housing funding during the COVID-19 pandemic allowed too much to be spent on fees to developers, spent money before contracts were in

place and made duplicate payments for the same invoices, an internal audit found.

Federal law enforcement is investigating the office’s activity under former Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome, multiple sources said.

The audit, done last year under Broome’s administration, high-

lights a project to build three small homes. The cost ballooned from $220,000 to almost $500,000 — and the developer collected more than quadruple the amount of personal fees he was originally allowed, the audit notes.

The developer, Jason Hughes of Hughes Consultant Group LLC, says his contract more than dou-

bled in size because of rising construction costs during COVID-19, and any excess fees paid to him were the city-parish’s error, not his.

“In my opinion, after looking back on it, the people that were in place had no idea or no understanding of how that money worked and how it was supposed to be spent,”

GROUNDBREAKING TREATMENT

La.’s first sickle cell gene therapy patient aims to fly

BY EMILY WOODRUFF Staff writer

This story is the first in an occasional series following Louisiana’s first patients to receive gene therapy for sickle cell disease.

On the third floor of Manning Family Children’s hospital in New Orleans recently, a spinning centrifuge wobbled and hummed next to Daniel Cressy’s bed

From his neck, thin tubes snaked into the machine spinning his blood, separating out the stem cells doctors hope will help cure his sickle cell disease

Later the same day, the bag of blood hanging from the top

of the machine was on its way to Scotland, where the stem cells were scheduled to be genetically edited to reset his body’s switch for protection from the searing, unpredictable pain of his chronic disease.

Once those modified stem cells are reintroduced and take root in his bone marrow, Cressy hopes to be in the air, too. The gene therapy is his second chance after the Federal Aviation Administration denied his medical clearance to be a pilot. Cressy, 22, is the first person in Louisiana to receive a groundbreaking gene therapy that could offer a functional cure for sickle cell. Thousands of people in the state live with the same diagnosis, but getting this multimillion-dollar

See TREATMENT, page 4A

Gulf Coast sees surge of flesh-eating bacteria

Pathogen found in warm salt water, raw shellfish

BY EMILY WOODRUFF Staff writer

The Gulf Coast has seen a rise in in-

fections caused by Vibrio vulnificus a deadly pathogen found in warm salt water and raw shellfish known for its ability to rapidly infect and destroy skin and tissue.

So far this year, the bacteria has been linked to over 70 infections and nine deaths across Louisiana, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Texas. Louisiana accounts for a disproportionate share

of the cases, with 20 infections and four deaths. In comparison, the state averaged just seven cases and one death per year over the past decade. Experts point to several factors fueling the recent increase, including rising water temperatures and storm runoff that provides nutrients for bacterial growth. While the bacterium can sometimes enter the body through eating raw or undercooked seafood, the Louisiana Department of Health reports that three-quarters of recent infections involved wounds or other

direct water exposure.

Vibrio bacteria flourish in warm, brackish waters — conditions that are common during the summer months. After heavy rains and storms, nutrients like phosphorus and nitrogen wash into coastal waters, helping the bacteria multiply, said Tiong Aw, a public health microbiologist and professor at Tulane University

“All these create an ideal condition for Vibrio to grow and survive,” Aw said. There are dozens of types of Vibrio

ä See BACTERIA, page 6A

said Hughes about the city-parish development office “That led to putting people like myself and other developers in bad situations.”

That project is not the only one under scrutiny: Another city-parish effort, the $6 million “Housing for Heroes” development, was the subject of federal grand jury subpoenas last year and has sat frozen since its approval nearly four

Superintendent says $40M needed to enhance experience

BY CHARLES LUSSIER Staff writer

Saying that high schools in the Capital City have fallen behind in what they offer students, East Baton Rouge Parish Superintendent LaMont Cole is pressing to spend $40 million to enhance “the high school experience.”

That “experience” includes student clubs, fine arts, career and technical education, as well as athletics.

“That is what I’m seeking to do, make our high schools more attractive, make the experience more attractive.”

LAMONT COLE, East Baton Rouge Parish schools superintendent

“That is what I’m seeking to do, make our high schools more attractive, make the experience more attractive,” Cole explained last week. Cole, who just completed his first year as local schools superintendent, first unveiled the proposal during a speech at the Baton Rouge Press Club. Later in the week, the parish School Board voted unanimously to begin the process of selling $40 million worth of bonds.

Assuming the State Bond Commission approves the sale when it meets Sept. 18, the board would give final approval in October, clearing the way for a bond sale in November

“There would be no increased cost to the district,” Cole said. The proposed new bonds would replace roughly $40 million in bonds sold in 2009 and 2010 that the school system is set to pay off in December. The school system has been budgeting

ä See BOND, page 6A

Gulf Coast.

3 hurt as fire burns century-old buildings

SALT LAKE CITY — Three firefighterswereinjuredafterablazethat started in a restaurant’s kitchen scorched century-old buildings in Salt Lake City’s nightlife hub, officials said Tuesday

Firefighters were dispatched to a cooking fire at the London Belle Supper Club on Monday night and found smoke and fire in the kitchen area, Salt Lake City Fire Chief Karl Lieb said at a news conference. The intense heat created a challenging environment, and because it was unsafe to keep firefighters inside or on the roof, where they normally start their attack,hesaidtheyfoughtthefire with aerial devices

Mexico expels 26 cartel figures wanted by U S.

WASHINGTON Mexico sent 26 high-ranking cartel figures to the United States Tuesday in the latest major deal with the Trump administration as American authorities ratchet up pressure on criminal networks smuggling drugs across the border

Those being handed over to U.S. custody include Abigael González Valencia, a leader of “Los Cuinis,” a group closely aligned with notorious cartel Jalisco New Generation or CJNG, a person familiar with the matter told The Associated Press. Another person, Roberto Salazar is wanted in connection to the 2008 killing of a Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputy, the person said. Other defendants have ties to the Sinaloa Cartel, the Los Zetas cartel and other violent drug trafficking groups. They were being flown to American soil after the Justice Department agreed not to seek the death penalty against any of the defendants or against any cartel leaders and members transferred to the U.S. in February, the person said.

6 ex-officials convicted in deaths of 41 girls

GUATEMALA CITY A Guatemalan judge convicted six people of various crimes Tuesday in connection with the deaths of 41 girls in a 2017 fire at a facility for at-risk youth that had a history of abuse. They had all declared their innocence Tuesday Judge Ingrid Cifuentes handed down cumulative sentences of six years to 25 years for charges ranging from manslaughter to abuse of authority She also ordered the investigation of former President Jimmy Morales for his role in ordering police to work at a facility where minors who had not committed crimes were held Prosecutors had earlier requested sentences up to 131 years for some of those convicted, who were all former government workers.

‘What’s Happening!!,’ actress dies at 60

LOS ANGELES Danielle Spencer, who played the wisecracking and tattling little sister Dee Thomas on the 1970s sitcom “What’s Happening!!” has died at 60. Spencer, who became a veterinarian later in life, died Monday at a hospital in Richmond, Virginia, after a yearslong battle with cancer, family spokesperson Sandra Jones said As Dee, Spencer was the smarter, more serious younger sister who offered a steady stream of deadpan roasts of big brother Roger “Raj” Thomas and his friends Dwayne Nelson and Freddie “Rerun” Stubbs.

“Ooh, I’m gonna tell mama,” would become Dee’s catchphrase.

Zelenskyy: Putin wants rest of Donetsk region

BY LORNE COOK and SAMYA KULLAB Associated Press

KYIV,Ukraine — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Tuesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin wants Ukraine to withdraw from the remaining 30% of the Donetsk region that it controls as part of a ceasefire deal, a proposal the leader categorically rejected.

Zelenskyy reiterated that Ukraine would not withdraw from territories it controls, saying that would be unconstitutional and would serve only as a springboard for a future Russian invasion.

He said diplomatic discussions led by the U.S focusing on ending the war have not touched on security guarantees for Ukraine to prevent future Russian aggression and that meeting formats currently being discussed do not include Europe’s participation, both key demands of Kyiv Meanwhile, Russian forces on the ground have been closing in on a key territorial grab around the city of Pokrovsk.

Zelenskyy said the necessity of territorial concessions was conveyed to him by U.S officials

ahead of a summit Friday between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, and in further meetings at the level of national security officials. It remained unclear whether Ukraine would take part in the Friday summit European Union leaders also have been sidelined from the meeting, and they appealed to Trump on Tuesday to protect their interests.

Zelenskyy said Putin wants the remaining 3,500 square miles of Donetsk under Kyiv’s control, where the war’s toughest battles are grinding on, as part of a ceasefire plan, in a press briefing on Tuesday in Kyiv

Doing so would hand Russia almost the entirety of the Donbas, a region comprising Ukraine’s eastern industrial heartland that Putin has long coveted.

Zelenskyy learned of Russia’s position after holding a call with Trump and special envoy Steve Witkoff, after the latter’s bilateral meeting with Putin.

Witkoff told Zelenskyy that Russia was ready to end the war and that there should be territorial concessions from both sides. Some European partners were also part of the call.

“And that probably Putin wants us to leave Donbas. That is, it didn’t sound like America wants us to leave,” he said, recounting the call.

Zelenskyy reiterated that withdrawing from Ukraine-controlled territory was out of the question, especially as the question of security guarantees for Ukraine, were not being discussed.

“We will not leave Donbas. We cannot do this. Everyone forgets the first part our territories are illegally occupied,” Zelenskyy told reporters at a briefing on Tuesday “Donbas for the Russians is a springboard for a future new offensive.”

Zelenskyy said this is what occurred in 2014 when Russia illegally annexed the Crimean Peninsula.

Trump has said he wants to see whether Putin is serious about ending the war, now in its fourth year

The U.S. president has disappointed allies in Europe by saying Ukraine will have to give up some Russian-held territory. He also said Russia must accept land swaps, although it was unclear what Putin might be expected to surrender.

Texas attorney general escalates redistricting fight

Trump ally seeks arrest of progressive activist

BY BILL BARROW and NADIA LATHAN Associated Press

AUSTIN, Texas Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton ratcheted up President Donald Trump’s congressional redistricting fight by calling Tuesday for progressive activist Beto O’Rourke to be put “behind bars” for helping Democrats who have managed to block the GOP’s gerrymandering efforts with an extended walkout

Hours earlier, Texas Republican leaders said they were prepared to end their stalemated special session that includes the proposed new maps and immediately begin another standoff with Democratic legislators. Dozens of Democrats have left the state to prevent their GOP colleagues from voting on the changes and meeting Trump’s demands ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

The developments are the latest escalations in a battle that began in Austin and now reaches into multiple courtrooms and statehouses controlled by both major parties.

Paxton, a Trump acolyte who is running for the U.S. Senate, asked a Texas judge on Tuesday to hold O’Rourke in contempt of court, arguing that the former congressman and onetime presidential candidate has continued to fundraise for absent Democrats despite an order last week that Paxton said should have stopped some of his activities.

“It’s time to lock him up,” Paxton said of O’Rourke in a fiery written statement

O’Rourke denied any wrongdoing and called the attorney general a “corrupt, lying thug.”

At the Texas Capitol, House Speaker Dustin Burrows was more muted as he confirmed Republicans’ next moves after dozens of Democrats again did not show up, preventing the necessary quorum for business to be conducted. Burrows said from the House floor that lawmakers will not attempt to reconvene again until Friday If Democrats are still absent — and they have given no indication that they plan to return — the speaker and Gov Greg Abbott said Republicans will end the current session, with the governor immediately calling another Abbott called Democrats “derelict” and said in statement that he will “continue to call special session after special session until we get this Texas first agenda passed.” Democrats responded by declaring victory — even if temporarily

“We said we would defeat Abbott’s first corrupt special session, and that’s exactly what we’re doing,” Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Rep. Gene Wu said in a statement.

Netanyahu hints talks now focus on release of hostages

BY NATALIE MELZER Associated Press

JERUSALEM — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Tuesday hinted that ceasefire efforts in Gaza are now focused on a comprehensive deal that would release the remaining hostages all at once, rather than in phases. Arab officials told The Associated Press last week that mediators Egypt and Qatar were preparing a new framework for a deal that would include the release of all remaining hostages in one go in return for a lasting ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.

The long-running indirect talks appeared to break down last month. But a Hamas delegation arrived in Cairo for ceasefire talks on Tuesday, Egypt’s state-run Qahera news channel reported, a sign that efforts have not been abandoned after 22 months of war Israel has threatened to widen its military offensive against Hamas to the areas of Gaza that it does not yet control, and where most of the territory’s 2 million residents have sought refuge.

Those plans have sparked international condemnation and criticism within Israel, and could be intended to raise pressure on Hamas to reach a ceasefire. The militants still hold 50 hostages taken in the Oct. 7, 2023, attack that sparked the war Israel believes around 20 of them are alive.

In an interview with Israel’s i24 News network broadcast Tuesday, Netanyahu was asked if the window had closed on a partial ceasefire deal. Egyptian Foreign Ministry Badr Abdelatty told reporters that Cairo is still trying to advance an earlier proposal for an initial 60-day ceasefire, the release of some hostages and an influx of humanitarian aid before further talks on a lasting truce. “I think it’s behind us,” Netanyahu replied. “We tried, we made all kinds of attempts we went through a lot, but it turned out that they were just misleading us.”

Trump’stakeoverofD.C.policebegins

BY ASHRAF KHALIL and LINDSAYWHITEHURST Associated Press

WASHINGTON The new picture of law enforcement in thenation’s capitalbegan taking shapeTuesday as some of the 800 National Guard members deployedbythe Trump administration began arriving. The city’spolice and federal officials, projecting cooperation, took the first steps in an uneasy partnership to reduce crime in what President DonaldTrump called —without substantiation alawless city.

The influx came the morning after theRepublican president announcedhewould be activating the guard members and taking over the District’spolice department, something the lawallows him to do temporarily.Hecited a crime emergency —but referred to thesamecrime thatcityofficials stress is already falling noticeably Mayor Muriel Bowserpledged to work alongside the federal offi-

cials Trump hastasked withoverseeing the city’slaw enforcement, while insisting the policechief remained in chargeofthe department and its officers.

“How we got here or what we think about the circumstances right now we have morepolice, and we want to make sure we use them,” she told reporters.

Thetonewas ashift from theday before, when Bowser said Trump’s plantotakeover the Metropolitan Police Department and call in the National Guard was not aproductive step and argued his perceived state of emergency simply doesn’t match the decliningcrime numbers. Still, the law gives thefederal government more sway over the capital city than in U.S. states, and Bowser said her administration’s ability to pushback is limited

Attorney General Pam Bondi postedonsocial mediathatthe meeting was productive.

The law allows Trumptotake over the D.C.police for up to 30 days, though White House press

secretary KarolineLeavitt suggested it could last longer as authorities later “reevaluate and reassess.” Extending federal control past that time would require Con-

gressional approval, something likely tough to achieve in the face of Democratic resistance.

About 850 officers and agents fannedout across Washington

on Monday and arrested 23 people overnight, Leavitt said. The charges, she said, included homicide drunk driving, gun and drug crimes and subway fare evasion. She didn’timmediately provide further information on the arrests.

The U.S. Park Police has also removed 70 homeless encampments over the last five months, she said.

People who were living in them can leave, go to ahomeless shelter or go into drug addiction treatment, Leavitt said. Those who refuse could face fines or jail time. While Trumpinvokes hisplan by saying that “we’re going to take our capital back,” Bowser and the MPD maintain that violent crime overall in Washington has decreased to a30-year low after asharp rise in 2023. Carjackings, for example, dropped about 50% in 2024 and are downagain this year More thanhalfofthose arrested, however,are juveniles, and the extent of those punishments is a point of contention for the Trump administration.

Pennsylvania Gov.

B.

Causeofexplosion at Pa. plantunder investigation

Massiverescue effort ledto pullingworkers from debris

BY MARC LEVY,MICHAEL

CASEY and PETERSMITH Associated Press

CLAIRTON, Pa Momentsafter an explosion erupted at a U.S. Steel plant in Pennsylvania, company firefighters, local responders and employees raced in to rescue people from the smoldering wreckage. But word spread that some were trapped in the sprawling facility,and the walls were too unstable to safely bring them out.

Acrew from Pittsburghbased Pennsylvania Urban Search &Rescue Strike Team One was called in to assist, said Matthew Brown, chief of Allegheny County Emergency Services. The team was able to stabilize awall at the plant outside Pittsburgh and used an ad-

vanced camera to detect the trapped workers’ locations. Crew members pulled away the rubble and freed one worker,who waswhisked to ahospitalwhere he remains. Asecond worker waslater found dead. Monday’sexplosion, which was powerfulenough to shake nearby homes, killed two workers andinjured more than 10 others. Five people ranging in age from 27 to 74 remained hospitalized Tuesday including the rescued worker,who was in critical but stable condition, according to the Allegheny County Police Department

Three wereatUPMC Mercy the region’sonly level-one trauma and burncenter

The massive plant along the Monongahela Riverin Clairton convertscoal to coke, akey component in the steelmaking process. The facility is considered the largest coking operationin North America and is one of four majorU.S. Steelplants in Pennsylvania. To make coke, coal is baked

in special ovensfor hoursat high temperaturestoremove impuritiesthatcould otherwise weaken steel. The process creates what’sknown as coke gas —alethal mixof methane, carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide.

U.S. Steel’schief manufacturingofficer,Scott Buckiso, saidworkers were conducting routine operations at the timeofthe accident

Twoloud booms that followed the initial blast were initially thought to be subsequent explosions, but Buckiso said they werefrom the activation of two relief pressure valves —a safety mechanism that operated as expected.

The causeofthe explosion remained under investigation, and DemocraticGov Josh Shapiro told reporters Tuesday that workers deserve an “answer forwhat happened.”

“Weowe them the answers to their questions, andwe owe themtonever forget the sacrifices thatoccurredhere yesterday,” Shapiro said.

treatment isn’teasy.For Cressy, it took18months of evaluations andinsurance approvals. Across thestate, more patientsare lining up, but only one other person, a10-year-old in Shreveport, has madeitthrough the approvals process so far

The hardest part for thepatient, which includes chemotherapyand amonthofisolation, is stillahead.

Butafter that, if all goes well,it’s likely Cressy will be abletolive free from sickle cell’sdebilitating pain episodes —and reapply for medical clearance.

“There’snofreedom like flying. It’sanescape from everything else,” he said, asmilebreaking across his face in his hospital bed.

“Whenyou’reupinthe clouds, it’s just you and the plane.”

In the first yearoflife, babies withsickle cell disease often appear completely healthy. Most parents only learn their child has the conditionafter aroutineheel prick in the hospital

That’sbecause,duringinfancy, thebody still relies on fetal hemoglobin, atypeofoxygen-carrying protein that’sproduced in the womb.

But the gene that makes fetalhemoglobin is turned offshortly after infancy.Sickle cell patients have a mutation in the hemoglobingene that makes blood cellsstiffen and curve into acrescent shape that easily clots and gets jammed up in their joints,causing intense pain.

For Cressy,who grew up in New Orleans and Kenner,sickle cell pain episodes felt like arubber bandtightening around his entire body. He had them moreoften as akid, but as ateenager mostly got them under control witha medication called hydroxyurea.

Last Wednesday, hisblood was causing troublefor the centrifuge He hasreceived regulartransfusions to replace his sickled blood for months as part of the protocol for the gene therapy,but his bloodwas stillthick andproneto clotting, making it harder for the machine to separate the stem cells.

Nurse Angel Haydel adjusted the anticoagulant in the machine and fluids running through aport in his chest to keepthe machine moving. The setup requiresoneon-one supervision —ifone nurse

leaves the room, another stepsin —and it chirps with alarms every fewminutes

The machine will cycle for aroundsix hours forthreedays.

Cressy willreturn in September for another stem cell harvesting. Twoofthe stem cell collections will go toScotland, andone will stay in NewOrleans as abackup, in case thetreatment doesn’twork andhe needshis original cells again.

On average, patients need 2.2 collections for thetherapy,said RobClark, chief communications officer at Vertex.

In Scotland, astrand of “guide RNA” —agenetic bloodhound designed to sniffout acertain sequence of DNA —will joinwiththe Cas9 enzyme.The RNAwillscan Cressy’s genome like aGPS until it finds itsmark: acontrol switch that keeps the fetal hemoglobin gene turned off.

Cas9willthensnipthe DNAat that precise spot,unlocking the gene so it can switch back on. The approach,called CRISPR, enables scientists to edit genes with pinpointaccuracy,and has been used for everything from boosting the nutrition in vegetables to reprogramming immune cellstofighting treatment-resistantcancers

The editedstem cells are then frozen, shipped back andinfused into Cressy’sbloodstream. They traveltothe bone marrow, which hasbeen cleared of other cells by chemotherapy,and once established, they rebuild the blood supplywith healthyred blood cells.

“His cells, once they’re changed, effectively become the drug,” said Dr.Zachary LeBlanc, apediatric hematologist and oncologist at Manning Family Children’s. The goal is that Cressy’sown body will keep sicklingatbay without any other treatment —“acure,” said LeBlanc.

Thereare risks. Any treatment that changes apatient’sstem cells can carry asmall risk of cancer, especially blood cancers, if the inserted genes accidentally affect cancer-related genes or if the transplantputs lasting stress on thebone marrow

In 2021, Bluebird Bio, the company behind asecond recently approved type of gene therapy for sickle cell, announced that two of sevenpatientspreviously treated withtheir product in aclinical trial developedacute myeloid leukemia. An investigation found thecancer was likely unrelated to the gene therapyitself. Bluebird usesadifferentapproach to gene therapy than Vertex,relying on adeactivated virus to deliver a healthygeneinto apatient’sown stem cells.

Both therapies come with all thefamiliar side effects of cancer treatment: hair loss,nausea,fatigue, dangerously lowimmunity and infertility.For afew weeks, patientsare extremely vulnerable, often confined to isolation rooms where every visitor is masked and gloved.

But the trial results arepromising. In onestudy,all but two of 31 patients were free from severe

pain crises foratleast ayear after treatment with Casgevy,the Vertex product. In another,all 44 patients ages 12 to 35 avoided hospitalization forayear after therapy

Still, it’s new

“You’restill probably only talkingabout in the history of the planet,150 maybe200 people now that have ever done this,” LeBlanc said. “The vast majority of them have beeninthe last twoorthree years.”

Just 29 patientshavehad Casgevy infused into theirbonemarrow since its launch in December 2023. Eighty-six more, like Cressy, have had their first cell collection, according to Vertex’ssecond quarter financial results for2025.

Convincing doctors was just the beginning. Despite drug approval ayear and ahalfago, progress in getting the treatment to patients has been slow.That’smainlyfor onereason, said Dr.Julie Kanter, president of the National Alliance of Sickle Cell Centers. Kanter was the head of the Sickle Cell Center of Southern Louisiana before leaving for Alabama.

“It’sexpensive,” said Kanter “And it’sjust complicated.Who puts the money out? Where does it go? When do you get reimbursed?”

Casgevy,the product made by Vertex, is a$2.2 million therapy.

That doesn’tinclude the hospital stays, chemotherapy andother costs. Theother product, Lyfgenia made by Bluebird, is $3.1 million.

Dr.LeBlanc andhis team have joked: What if someonewitha bag of money just showed up, willing to pay? That hasn’thappened yet. Instead, Lynn Winfield,the director of patientservices for cancer andhematologyatChildren’s, has spent months goingback and forth with insurance companies.

ForCressy, who hasMedicaid, they’ve landed on amodel that includesshipping the productfrom ScotlandtoTennessee, where aspecialty pharmacy will receive the drugbefore passingitbacktothe hospital, sparing them from being on the hook for the cost. The hospital has aboutnine other patients in line, with only one other approved.

Louisianaconsistentlyranks among the states with thehighest sickle cell disease prevalence per capita. About 80 babies are diagnosedeach year.Medicaid covers care for roughly 3,000 people with the condition, butthe totalnumber

living withitisunknown, though the state is building aregistry In 2023, 1,430 people werehospitalized with sickle cell disease in Louisiana

The state has recently signed on to anew federal program called the Cell and Gene Therapy Access Model that will help Medicaid patients get access to expensive sickle cellgenetherapies. Under the plan, drugmakers will give states discounts or rebates if the treatments don’twork as promised, and allows CMS to be thenegotiator between the payor andcompany. Theprogram coversabout 84% of Medicaidpatients with sickle cell nationwide andcould give Louisiana up to $9.5 millioninfederal support to launchitstarting this year

Although the list priceofCasgevy is $2.2 million, insurers typically negotiate prices with drug companies. Vertex declined to provide specificsofagreements.

“Nobody’spaying full price,” said Kanter, noting thatishow hospitalsand insurers typically operate.

The model could expand to other high-costgenetherapies in the future if it is successful.

For now, Cressy is still driving an 18-wheelermostnights, moving food between New Orleans andLafayette, but he’s already picturing the day he can get back to flight training. He didn’tset out to be the first person in Louisianatoget the therapy.“Ireally just wanted to be curedsoI could fly,” he said. “But once Ifound out I’d be the first, Ifigured Ishould share what it’sactually like so other patients know it’spossible.”

The FAAhas confirmed that other sickle cell patients who underwent gene therapy were able to fly again. Cressy befriended one of them,creating abrand called “Privileged Pilots.” He hasbeen speaking at aviation and sickle cell events, explaining the process to people who might want to do the same.

As he tried not to look at the blood draining intothe centrifuge beside his hospital bed, his self-made shirt summed up how he sees himself. It reads“IMPOSSIBLE,” with the “IM” in adifferent color

“I want people to see that what was once impossible is possible,” he said. “IfIcan do it,they can do it.”

about $3 million a year to pay off those bonds. Those soon-to-be-retired bonds came with low or no-interest payments and were paid back over 15 years. They grew out of the 2009 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, better known as the federal stimulus act. They were used to pay for 16 classroom additions, a new temporary classroom building, plus 182 school repair jobs such as repainting exterior walls and repaving parking lots.

The new bonds would carry an interest rate set by the market, topping out at no more than 6% They would be paid back over a 20year period. Cole said he is asking high schools to immediately start sending him their wish lists for things to improve their schools, and from that, he will develop a final project list.

Board members on Thursday were quick to make suggestions.

“Tara High desperately needs a new track,” offered board member Patrick Martin V. Board member Carla PowellLewis said she visited Istrouma High earlier that day

“They have half of a gym floor, superintendent,” she said The East Baton Rouge Parish

BACTERIA

Continued from page 1A

bacteria, and they can live in temperatures as low as 50 degrees. But they especially like the warm conditions of the Gulf.

A study published in the Journal of Climate found that water temperatures in the Gulf have risen at twice the rate of global ocean temperatures between 1970 and 2020.

“As the oceans have gotten warmer in recent years, it’s not surprising that cases are increasing,” said Dr David Mushatt, an infectious disease expert at Tulane University “Temperature and salt content are what these bacteria like.”

Vibrio vulnificus enters the body either through an open wound exposed to contaminated water or by consuming raw shellfish

school system operates 12 traditional high schools. They range from Northeast High in Pride, which has about 300 students, to Baton Rouge Magnet High, which has about 1,600 students. The district also operates three alternative high schools and a K-12 virtual school. Four charter schools authorized by the school system also have high school-age students.

Cole said that during his first year, he frequently heard complaints from high schools, particularly from students, that their schools fell short in what was avail-

Eating raw or undercooked contaminated oysters causes gastrointestinal illness and, in severe cases, a bloodstream infection

That form is not a skin-destroying infection, but it can be life threatening

Infection can also occur when Vibrio vulnificus gains access through a break in the skin. Someone shucking raw oysters with a cut, for example, can be exposed if the bacteria invade the wound.

It can also enter through injuries sustained in or near the water, such as scraping a leg on a boat, or from any existing wound that comes into contact with contaminated seawater

Once inside, it multiplies rapidly and releases toxins that kill cells and break down tissue, causing severe damage.

Vibrio vulnificus is a “rare but very serious infection,” said Dr Norman Beatty, an associate pro-

able outside their core classes.

“What I’ve heard is their desire for school to be more than English, math, science and social studies,” Cole said.

Artificial turf is a sore spot. Once considered a luxury artificial turf fields are increasingly the norm, but Baton Rouge high schools have failed to follow suit.

Cole offered other examples: stages without curtains, antiquated lighting systems in auditoriums, substandard science labs, old weight rooms and rundown press boxes.

fessor of medicine at the University of Florida. Most cuts exposed to seawater will heal normally, he said, but certain warning signs can signal the infection has taken hold.

The first hallmark sign is the appearance of blisters, known as bullae, near the infected wound, and a rapid onset of swelling and redness, Beatty said.

Often, a delay in getting to a doctor who could prescribe antibiotics allows the infection to progress, sometimes requiring surgical removal of infected tissue or even amputation, said Beatty. Severe cases can lead to sepsis and septic shock, which can be fatal.

If you get a cut while in the water, Mushatt suggested cleaning it right away with hydrogen peroxide and antibiotic ointment. But don’t wait if the wound starts turning red, swelling or oozing pus. “This can progress over hours,” Mushatt said.

Cole said that old band uniforms are another touchy subject. He noted that on Wednesday, he attended an event at Liberty High featuring a fine performance by the school’s marching band.

“The first thing the parents asked me when the cameras went off was, ‘When are you going to buy us some band uniforms?’ ”

Cole recalled.

He noted that the lack of uniforms means that Baton Rouge high schools are unable to send bands to New Orleans to march in Mardi Gras parades, a high-profile activity that gives student musicians wider exposure and increases their chances of landing college scholarships.

Martin urged Cole to develop another, permanent solution that would allow schools “to buy new band uniforms more frequently than every 20 years.”

“I don’t generally like the idea of borrowing for a 20-year term to pay for band uniforms,” Martin said.

Cole said he sees the shortcomings of district high schools when he visits other high schools locally, as well as in other parts of Louisiana and in other states. Others similarly ask him why Baton Rouge can’t have the same kinds of things.

“The restaurants in Denham Springs, for instance, have restaurants in their (high school student)

Putting off going to the emergency room until your vacation is over is not the right choice. Even a three-hour drive back home from the beach could make a difference in the outcome.

“You wouldn’t want to wait that long,” said Mushatt, who recommended seeking care at a local emergency department.

People with liver disease, diabetes or weakened immune systems should be especially cautious. “For these individuals, the threshold to seek care is even lower,” Mushatt added.

Only a small number of recent infections have been linked to eating raw oysters, according to the Health Department, and no single harvesting area has been identified as a source.

Evelyn Watts, a seafood extension specialist at LSU AgCenter emphasized that eating raw shellfish always carries some risk, es-

unions,” Cole recalled.

Similarly, board member Cliff Lewis said he recently visited Walker High and was “blown away” by the career training options offered there.

“If we’re going to change the trajectory of the children in our community, we’ve got to give them what they need to grow,” Lewis said.

Powell-Lewis said other local high schools have coffee shops and credit unions on campus. She also suggested that Cole use the $40 million to add other amenities to high schools that benefit the larger school community

“Having washing machines, dryers, possibly even a food pantry, even a dentist office or a clinic in a school really comes in handy in our schools when we talk about those parts of our communities that come to school in survival mode,” she said.

Board member Nathan Rust said he supports Cole’s proposal in general but said he wants to see evidence before he says yes that the school system will still have enough money to fund a substantial employee pay raise next year

“My only concern is putting too much of a burden on the district’s finances when we have some other checks to cash,” Rust said.

Email Charles Lussier at clussier@theadvocate.com.

pecially from April through October when the bacteria is most active. She advised consumers to look for oysters labeled safe for raw consumption.

Certain groups, including pregnant people, older adults, those with weakened immune systems, and individuals with liver disease, diabetes, kidney disease, or undergoing chemotherapy or other immunosuppressive treatments, should avoid raw shellfish altogether to reduce their risk of serious infection. Currently, there is no specific state or federal program testing coastal waters for Vibrio vulnificus, Aw said. However Aw’s lab has been monitoring Lake Pontchartrain for the past year and found the bacteria present yearround, with higher levels during summer when water temperatures reach about 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

years ago. Auditors say the issues go beyond asingle project, pointing to systematic problems in an office that paid out nearly $250 million in grants over just two and a half years.

Broomesaid the grants made abig difference in the community,“funding thousands of units that are now completed or underway.”

“One of my guiding principles for my administration and staff was that all work should be ethically,morally and legally sound,” the former mayor said. “I welcome proper audit and scrutiny, but it is important to view our work in itsentirety and not allow an individual issuetoovershadow yearsof meaningful progressfor our community.”

Aspokesperson forthe current mayor,Sid Edwards, saidhis officeisaware of the audit findings and “has complied with all requests made by the authorities.”

In January 2024, the cityparish’sauditing division scrutinized the selection, awardand payment processes under the Office of Community Development’s HOMEInvestment Partnership and Community Development Block Grant programs in 2021 and 2022. Investigators selectedseven contracts out of hundreds of programs andfoundquestionable payments and practices.

For one project in particular,the Office of Community Development paid $135,000 in developer fees when the original contract budgeted just $33,000. The final version allowed for $72,000in developer fees. No project or developer is identified in the report, but city-parish records of payment amounts, datesand fees all match the Central Road Rehabilitation project, awarded to Hughes. Originallybudgetedat $148,000 in 2021 and increased to $220,000 in Feb-

ruary 2022, the project renovated three homes onejustunder1,000square feet, the other two under 700 square feet —onCentral Road in Baton Rouge.

Hughes still owns the houses and said he recently found renters for two of the threehomes.The mostrecentlyavailableproperty recordsshowthe homes have an assessedproperty tax value of $11,000 each. For such projects, thecityparish allowsdeveloper fees —paymentto thedeveloper outside of construction costs —ofbetween 10% to 17% of theproject’stotal budget

When theproject wasoriginallybudgeted at $220,000, Hughes’ fee was set at $33,000, or 15%. Butonhis first payment, recordsshow thecity-parish issued hima $72,000 check for developer fees on Feb. 3, 2022.

Thetotal cost of Hughes’ contract more than doubled months after the rehab project began and was amended to $450,000. At theamended cost total, thedeveloper’s total fee of $135,000 represented 28%, which “exceeds theamount allowed”bycityparish regulations,auditors said.

“For whatever reason, the payments that were sent to mewerecategorized as developer’sfees,” Hughes said. “Back then, Iwas not paying attention to how it was labeled In astatement, Broome said she was made aware

of concerns about Hughes’ project “only when he personally approached mewith requestsIcould not grant.”

Broome said herpushback against Hughes’ project caused the developerto criticize her publicly during the 2024 mayoral campaign andsupport heropponent TedJames.

Then-Assistant Chief Administrative Officer CourtneyScott oversaw muchof thegrantimplementation for Broome’sadministration, records and emails show,alongside Tasha Saunders, whowas director of the Office of Community Development at the time.

Scottand Saunders did not respond to requests for comment.

Hughes saidfederal housing authorities have contacted him since therehab project was finished, asking about the developer fees he was paid.

Auditors saythe communitydevelopment office did not follow itsown policy and procedures in several cases that were sampled.

In one of the seven reviewed,the office started paying construction expenses before contracts were effective. Duplicate payments for asingleinvoicewere made to adeveloper on one occasion, auditors said.

In their review,investigatorsfound no proof in the Office of Community Development’sfilesthatproject applications were evaluated

prior to approval for any of the auditedcontracts.They also found the city-parish hadnoprocess for evaluating whether arequestfor a change order increasing the cost of aproject was reasonable.

Auditorsalso said that the office did nothaveany evidence that project monitoringtookplace forall of 2022

In twoprojects, the amount awarded was higher than the amount the developer requested in theapplication —one by $800,000, the other by $72,070.

From the start of 2020 through April2023, the officeenteredinto382 grant contracts through various programs, according to cityparish records.

Last year,a federal grand jury issueda subpoena at City Hall requesting documents related to the “Housing for Heroes” developmentdeal.

At least twoMetroCouncil members turned over text messageswith the developer whowas awarded the$6 millioninfederal funds to build low-incomehousing in Scotlandville, accordingto public records obtained by The Advocate.

Then-council member Chauna Banks took issue with Broome slowing the deal down, as the Mayor’s Office raised concern that the developer hadnot followed federal regulations.

Thestatus of that grand jury investigation is unclear

Federal programsduring thepandemicsentbillions of dollars to various municipalities like Baton Rouge to boost economies and develop communities. In Baton Rouge, tens of millions in grant money camebefore the Metro Councilfor approval.Housing projects were on the council’sagenda almost every month in 2022 and 2023.

On the council’sagenda, this funding typically appeared as alump sum of grant money for the Mayor’s Office to distribute, pending thecouncil’s approval with no specific developers or projects named.

In the onlineagenda, alink led to aseparate document listing the grant programs and the amounts earmarked foreach developer. There wasusually little breakdown of how muchofthat money would go to construction costs or developer fees.

In Hughes’case, when his contract was increased to $450,000, it appeared on an agenda as another lump

sum grant allocation with no mention of achangedoriginal dollar amount, council minutes show At its original price tag of $148,000, Hughes’ project was first approved by the council on April 14, 2021. On Feb.3,2022, his first check was issuedfor $72,000 and another wasissued two weeks laterfor $63,000on Feb. 16.Bythen, Hughes had been paid $130,000 in developer fees. On Feb. 23, 2022, the Office of Community Development brought moremoney to the councilfor approval,which includedanincrease of Hughes’ budget to $220,000. In August, moremoney wouldbeapprovedbythe council, increasing his project’stotal cost to $450,000. The developer said he is still owed an additional $220,000 from the city-parishfor the threehomes on Central Road.

Email Patrick SloanTurner at patrick.sloanturner@theadvocate.com.

People

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By CHARLOTTE KRAMON

of

Rose, the officer

Police:Shooter attacked CDCsiteto protestvaccines

BY CHARLOTTE KRAMON and JEFF MARTIN Associated Press

ATLANTA— The man who fired more than 180 shots with along gun at the headquarters of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Preventionbroke into alocked safe to get his father’sweapons and wanted to send a message against COVID-19 vaccines, authorities said Tuesday

Underscoring the level of firepower involved, the Georgia BureauofInvestigation said more than 500 shell casingswere recovered from thescene. Authorities haven’tsaid how many shots were fired by Patrick Joseph White and how many by police.The GBIsaidforensic testing was still pending.

Documents foundina search of the home where White had lived with his parents “expressed theshooter’sdiscontent with the CO-

VID-19 vaccinations,” GBI Director Chris Hosey said. White, 30, had written aboutwanting to make “the public aware of his discontent with the vaccine,” Hosey added. White also hadrecently verbalizedthoughtsofsuicide, which ledtolaw enforcementbeingcontacted several weeks before the shooting,Hosey said.He died at the scene Friday of a self-inflicted gunshot wound after killing DeKalb County Police OfficerDavidRose

The shooting reflects the dangers public health leadershavebeen experiencing around the country since anti-vaccine vitriol took root during the pandemic. Such rhetorichas been amplified as President DonaldTrump’s health secretary,Robert F. KennedyJr.,has repeatedly made false andmisleading statementsabout the safety of immunizations. “Weknow that misinformation can be dangerous.

Not only to health,but to thosethat trust us andthose we want to trust,” Dr.Susan MonareztoldCDC employees in an “all-hands” meeting Tuesday,her first since theattackcappedher first full week on campus as CDC director “Weneed to rebuild the trust together,” Monarez said, accordingtoa transcript obtained by The Associated Press. “The trust is what binds us.Inmoments like this,wemustmeetthe challenges withrational, evidence-baseddiscourse spoken with compassion and understanding. Thatishow we will lead.”

White’sparents have fully cooperated with theinvestigation of their son, who had no known criminal history, Hosey said Tuesday.With asearch warrant at their home in theAtlanta suburb of Kennesaw,authorities recovered written documents andelectronic devices that are being analyzed.

BY JAMIE STENGLE and JIM VERTUNO Associated Press

AUSTIN, Texas Arandom shooting outside aTarget store in Texas began when a gunman killed an employee collecting shopping carts then aman and his 4-yearold granddaughter,sparking achaotic hour of stolen cars and crashes that ended with him arrested naked holding aBible, police said Tuesday Ethan Nieneker, 32, is charged with two counts of capital murderand one countofmurderoverMonday’sshootinginAustin.

Court recordsshow aseries of past arrests fordomestic violence and assault.

“What happened yesterdaywas an unprovokedand deliberate attack, adeliberate act of violence,” Police

Chief Lisa Davis said at a news conference. “Innocent lives were taken in broad daylight, in aplace where peopleshouldfeelsafetorun their everyday errands and to live theireveryday lives.” The policechiefsaidalthough Nieneker hadahistory of mental health issues, she was unaware of any diagnosis. Sgt. Nathan Sexton said thefirearmNieneker used in the attacks was acquired through family Aftershooting the Target employee, Nienekershot thegrandfather as he sat in the driver’sseat of his sport utility vehicle,then fatally shot the littlegirlinthe back seat before stealing the vehicle anddriving away fast, policesaid.

“It was acompletely randomchoosing of the victims,” Sexton said.

Policesaidthe Targetemployee,Hector Leopoldo MartinezMachuca, 24, was taken to ahospital where he died. AdamChow, 65,and hisgranddaughter were pronounced dead at the scene while Chow’swife sustained minorinjuries. The name of thechild was not released Over the next hour Nienekertried to steal awater truck at aconstruction site, caused multiple vehicle crashes, wrecked Chow’s vehicle and then stole a Volkswagen he’d crashed into, police said. He also tried to break into aWaymo self-drivingvehicle, threw a brickthrough the home of an acquaintanceand walked nakedthrough abackyard Officers found Nieneker walking naked on astreet after he ditched his clothes in aportable toilet, policesaid.

BY CHRISTOPHER RUGABER and JOSH BOAK Associated Press writers

WASHINGTON The director of the agency that produces the nation’sjobs and inflation data is typically amildmannered technocrat, often with extensive experience in statistical agencies, with little public profile.

But like so much in President Donald Trump’ssecond administration, this timeis different.

Trump has selected E.J. Antoni, chief economistat theconservativeHeritage Foundation, to be the next commissioner at the Labor Department’sBureau of Labor Statistics. Antoni’snomination was quickly met with acascade of criticism from other economists,from across thepoliticalspectrum.

His selection threatens to bring anew level of politicization to what for decades has been anonpartisan agency widely accepted as aproducer of reliable measures of the nation’seconomic health.

While many former Labor Department officials say it is unlikely Antoni will be able to distortoralterthe data, particularly in the short run, he could change the currently dry-as-dustway it is presented.

Antoni was nominated by Trump after the BLS released ajobs report Aug. 1 that showed that hiring had weakened in July and was much lower in May and June than the agency had previously reported. Trump, without evidence, charged that the data had been “rigged” for political reasonsand fired the then-BLS chair, Erika McEntarfer,much to the dismay of many within the agency Antoni has been avocal

critic of thegovernment’s jobsdata in frequentappearances on podcasts and cableTV. His partisan commentary is unusual for someonewho mayend up leading the BLS. Forinstance,onAug. 4— aweekbeforehewas nominated —Antoni said in an interview on FoxNewsDigital that theLabor Department should stoppublishing the monthlyjobsreportsuntil its datacollection processes improve, and rely on quarterly data based on actual employment filings with state unemployment offices.

The monthly employment reports areprobably the closest-watched economic data on Wall Street, and can frequently cause swings in stock prices.

When asked at Tuesday’s White Housebriefingwhether the jobs report would continue to be released, press secretary Karoline Leavitt said the administration hoped it would be

“I believe that is the plan andthat’sthe hope,” Leavitt said.

Leavitt also defendedAntoni’snomination, calling him an “economic expert” who has testified before Congress andaddingthat,“the president trustshim to lead this important department.”

YetAntoni’sTVand podcast appearances have created more of aportrait of a conservativeideologue,instead of acarefuleconomist who considers tradeoffs and prioritizesgettingthe math correct.

“There’sjust nothing in his writing or his resume to suggest that he’squalified for the position, besidesthat he is always manipulating the datatofavor Trumpinsome way,”said Brian Albrecht, chief economist at the International Center for Law and Economics.

ICEordered to improveN.Y.facility

BY MICHAEL R. SISAK Associated Press

NEW YORK Afederal judge ordered the Trump administration Tuesday to immediately improve conditionsataNew York City immigration holding facility, acting on complaints by jailed migrants that it is dirty,smelly and overcrowded.

Judge Lewis A. Kaplan, rulingina lawsuitfiledon behalf of detainees, issued atemporary restraining order requiring U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement to limit capacity, ensurecleanliness and provide sleeping mats in so-called hold rooms at 26 FederalPlaza,agovernmentbuildinginManhattan.

Cellphone video recorded last monthbya detainee showed abouttwo dozen men crowded in one of the building’sfour hold rooms, many lying on the floor with thermal blankets but no mattresses or padding.

In court filings, detainees complained they had no soap, toothbrushes or other hygiene products. They said they were fed inedible “slop” and endured the “horrific stench” of sweat, urineand feces, in part because the rooms have open toilets. One woman having her period couldn’tuse menstrual productsbecause women in her room were givenjust two to divvy up, thelawsuit said.

Kaplanordered immigrationofficials to allocate 50 square feetper person— shrinking the largesthold room’scapacity to about 15 people after detainees said 40 or more were being jammed in. The building, home to immigration court and the FBI’sNew York fieldoffice, hasbecome an epicenter of President Donald Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigration.

The judge orderedthe government to thoroughly

I’ve been told about,” Kaplan said at ahearing Tuesday where agovernment lawyer conceded that some of the complaintswere valid

“I think we all agree that conditions at 26 Federal Plaza need to be humane, andwe obviously share that belief,” governmentlawyer Jeffrey S. Oestericher said, adding thatheagreed “inhumane conditions are not appropriate and should not be tolerated.”

clean the cells three times a dayand provide an adequate supply of hygiene products. Addressing concerns thatdetainees weren’table to communicatewith lawyers, Kaplan ordered the government

to make accommodations for confidential legal telephone calls

“Myconclusionhere is that there is avery serious threat of continuingirreparable injury,giventhe conditions that

The lawsuit —filedbythe immigrant rights organization Make the Road New York,the New York Civil Liberties Unionand the American Civil Liberties Union —sought court intervention to endwhatplaintiff lawyer Heather Gregorio called “inhumaneandhorrifyingconditions.”

Somedetainees have been held at 26 Federal Plaza far longer than the 72-hour norm,Gregorio said.

Millions in Europe face record heat

Temperatures,dryness help sparkwildfires

BY SUMAN NAISHADHAM Associated Press

MADRID Wildfires burned in parts of Europe on Tuesday as millions of people across thecontinent struggled to adapt to the new reality: record summer heat

Temperatures in some areas soared past 104 Fahrenheit.

Europe is warming faster than any othercontinent, at twice the speed of the global average since the 1980s, accordingtothe European Union’sCopernicusClimate Change Service. Last year was the hottest year on record inEurope and globally, the monitoring agency said.

Scientists warn climate change is exacerbating the frequency and intensity of heat and dryness, making parts of Europe more vulnerable to wildfires. The burning of fuels like gasoline, oil and coal releases heat-trapping gasses that

are the main driver of climate change.

Spainand Portugal:Fires rage

Outside Madrid, firefighters hadlargely contained ablaze that broke out Monday night, authorities said.Itkilleda manwho suffered burns on 98% of hisbody, emergency servicessaid.

Elsewhere, firefightersand nearly 1,000 soldiers were battlingblazes in regionsincluding Castile and Leon, Castile-LaMancha, Andalusia andGalicia. Thousands of people evacuated homes andhotels, including holidaygoers at beaches at the southern tipof Spain.

Regional authorities said Tuesday afternoon that some of those evacuated from beach locations could return to their hotels.

In Portugal, more than 700 firefighterswere working to control afire in the municipality of Tran-

coso, about217 miles northeast of Lisbon. Smaller fires were burning farther north.

Turkey:Thousands evacuated

Firefighters largely brought a major wildfire in northwest Turkeyunder control, theforestry minister announced,aday after the blaze prompted hundreds of evacuations and led to the suspension of maritime traffic.

Theblaze broke outonagriculturalland in Canakkale province. Fanned by strong winds, it rapidly spread toaforested area, then to a residential one. It forced theevacuationof2,000 residents —some by sea —and led to 77 hospitalizations due to smoke exposure, officials said.

Firefighters were still battling two other wildfires in Manisa and Izmir provinces in western Turkey,Agriculture and Forestry Minister Ibrahim Yumakli said on

social media.

France:Ared alertfor heat

The national weather authority placed most of France’ssouthern regiononthe highest heat warn-

ing, with temperatures above104 Fexpectedfor thesecondconsecutive day

The heat will spread to thenortheast, including the Parisregion, Meteo France said.

BY KIM TONG-HYUNG Associated Press

SEOUL, South Korea ASouth Korean court on Tuesday orderedthe arrest of the wife of jailed formerPresident Yoon Suk Yeol as investigators seek to charge her over various suspected crimes, including bribery,stock manipulation and meddlingin the selection of acandidate. In granting aspecialprosecutor’srequest for an arrest warrant near midnight, the Seoul Central District Court said Kim Keon Hee poses a risk of destroying evidence. The investigation into

Kim is one of three special prosecutor probes launched under Seoul’snew liberal government targeting the presidency of Yoon, acon-

servativewho wasremoved from office in April and rearrested last month over his brief imposition of martial law in December

While Yoon’s self-inflicted downfall extendeda decades-long run of South Korean presidencies ending badly, he andKim arethe first presidential couple to be simultaneously arrested over criminal allegations Yoon’ssurprising yet poorly planned power grab on Dec. 3came amid aseemingly routine standoffwiththe liberals,who he described as “anti-state” forces abusing their legislative majority to block his agenda.Some politicalopponents have questioned whether Yoon’s actionswereatleast partly motivated by growing allega-

tions against his wife, which hurt his approval ratingsand gave political ammunitionto his rivals. Kimdid not speak to reporters as she arrived at the Seoulcourt Tuesday foran hours-long hearing on the warrant request.She will be held at adetention center in southern Seoul, separate fromthe facilityholding Yoon.

The investigation team led by Special Prosecutor Min Joong-ki, who was appointed in June by new liberal President Lee Jae Myung, questioned Kim for aboutseven hours on Wednesday last

week before deciding to seek her arrest. Kim spoke briefly to reporters as sheappeared for last week’squestioning, issuing avague apology for causing public concern but also hintingthatshe woulddeny the allegationsagainst her, portraying herself as “someone insignificant.”

Investigators suspect that Kim andYoon exerted undue influence on the conservative People Power Party to nominate aspecific candidate in a 2022 legislative by-election, allegedly at the request of electionbrokerMyung Taekyun.

Nominationsmust meet specificrequirements to be considered.

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Firm: River Center needs redevelopment

Arena reimagined as events center with on-site hotel

BY IANNE SALVOSA Staff writer

A Chicago-based firm is recommending redeveloping the Raising Cane’s River Center into an events center with a 350-room headquarters hotel on the site Steven Haemmerle, Hunden Partners’ executive vice president of development advisory services, told the Downtown

Gonzales council rejects city clerk

Members disagree on combining roles

BY CHRISTOPHER CARTWRIGHT Staff writer

Disagreement about how the role would operate within the city government kept the Gonzales City Council from appointing a city clerk on Monday Mayor Tim Riley had nominated Johnae Jones, a Gonzales attorney admitted to the bar in February, to take the role with $20,000 pay but three council members said they wanted a full-time staff member who would also serve as chief administrative officer for the city Gonzales has operated without a clerk since former interim clerk Brandon Boylan left in April

The council’s rejection of Riley’s nominee after council members Kirk Boudreau, Tyler Turner and Terri Lambert voted no highlights the persistent divisions between the council and administration, which has failed to sway the same three council members to pass its proposed fiscal year budget. With another upcoming vote on the budget, it points to the possibility the budget standoff may continue into the fall.

Boudreau, Turner and Lambert all said they wanted someone in a full-time position like Gonzales has had in previous mayors’ administrations, but recent departures from the city have left both those roles vacant.

“Our city ordinance states the city clerk is a department head with a title of city clerk/ CAO,” Boudreaux said during the meeting “This position proposed tonight doesn’t comply with our ordinance.” Riley didn’t respond to Boudreaux’s comments during the meeting, but afterward, he pushed back against the council’s wish for a full-time position.

“Nowhere it tells you it has to be full-time or part-time It doesn’t tell you that,” he said of city ordinances. Riley added that he wanted to appoint lawyer and campaign consultant Wade Petite to the combined role the council requested, but didn’t think he had the votes.

Petite has instead been working as the contested chief of staff, a position that doesn’t officially exist but has had duties similar to the chief administrative officer The city council has never created the chief of staff position or approved Petite’s appointment, making it a potential violation of a city ordinance.

After the meeting, Petite acknowledged that city

Development District Commis-

sion that turning the arena into an events center will boost the number of bookings. He said the center’s age and small number of meeting spaces make it difficult for it to compete with other facilities.

“That wasn’t always the case, but that generally is how all cities compete now he said at the DDD meeting Tuesday morning.

“Other convention centers are looking to expand, so no action essentially has Baton Rouge slipping behind.” The hotel would include a 29,200-square-foot ballroom and

meeting rooms, and the event center will include a 40,000-squarefoot “flex hall” that would accommodate larger meetings and a 3,500-capacity concert venue. Recommendations also include a renovated outdoor public plaza and renovations to the River Center’s interior spaces.

The project would generate 200 full-time jobs, about $1 billion in direct and indirect spending, and $600 million in new earnings.

Haemmerle said Hunden Partners is working with city officials to find a development partner for the project. He said the public sector will have a “meaningful”

amount of investments for the hotel and event center, in addition to private investors. Next steps for the project include determining an implementation strategy, calculating costs and finding funding and development partners, which he estimates will take about 24 months.

The redevelopment of the arena into a hotel and event center will complement the new LSU sports arena, which is in the planning stages.“There are very few twoarena markets in the country, and Baton Rouge is not one of those,” Haemmerle said. In other business, DDD

Commission Executive Director Whitney Hoffman Sayal said the commission updated its development toolkit, which is used to attract developers and businesses.

The update found that 60% of all city jobs are downtown. The toolkit also states that the city has had $200 million in casino investment in the past two years, thanks to The Queen Baton Rouge and the Belle of Baton Rouge moving onto land.

The apartment buildings in the central business district are at a 94% occupancy rate, she said.

“That shows the demand, and we need more supply,” Sayal said.

Lane unveils patient tower

$90M facility will boost Zachary hospital’s care

BY IANNE SALVOSA Staff writer

Lane Regional Medical Center of-

ficials unveiled a $90 million patient tower Tuesday, which they said will elevate the Zachary hospital’s patient care to match other medical facilities in the area.

The tower houses 48 patient rooms and robotic medical technology CEO Frank Corcoran said the expanded facility will enable the hospital to provide additional services, including neurology and critical care.

“I call it a five-star hotel-like facility to take care of these patients,” Corcoran said at the ribbon-cutting. “I am so happy to have it here.” Lane Regional had 139 beds before the expansion, which brought the total to 187. He said once the tower passes inspection from the Louisiana Department of Health, patients can start moving in mid- to late September State Sen. Regina Barrow, D-Baton Rouge, said the hospital’s surrounding areas house a “vulnerable” population, dealing with ailments like diabetes and heart disease, and the expansion and added technology will bring residents closer to care when they need it. Time makes the difference,” she said.

The new patient rooms are on the third and fourth floors of the tower, with 12 rooms on each floor that are 2 to 2.5 times larger than the older rooms at the hospital. The bathrooms are large enough to allow patients in wheelchairs to wheel themselves in, while in older hospital rooms, staff assistance may have been required for patients in wheelchairs.

The patient tower also includes a sterilization room that is three times as large as the hospital’s existing room. New robotic technology includes the Stryker Mako, which performs total knee replacement surgery and

See LANE, page 4B

BY BOB WARREN Staff writer

From an airstrip just north of Interstate 10 on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, an aviation company recently launched an unmanned plane for a three-day flight, an important milestone on its quest for longer flights using only sunlight as fuel. Skydweller, the world’s largest solar-powered flying drone its 236-foot wingspan is bigger than a 747 — recently logged flights of 73 and 74 hours after taking off from its operations base at Stennis International Airport just east of the Louisiana-Mississippi state

line, according to the company The eventual goal? Flights of up to 90 days.

Robert Miller, CEO and cofounder of Skydweller Aero, is confident that goal is near

“It always takes a little longer than you think, but we’re getting there,” Miller said in a recent interview “Every 12 months we see a quantum step in where we’re headed.” The recent test flights mark a big leap from last fall, when the company announced it had made six test flights, including one of 22.5 hours.

Skydweller Aero’s continued success has kept the interest of the U.S. military, which Miller hopes will translate into contracts for additional

Shrimpers, seafoodfirms

sueover’22 Gulf oilspill

Disaster occurred on season’s opening day

BY ALEX LUBBEN Staff writer

More than 2,300 shrimpers, boat owners and seafood businesses from across the Gulf Coast are suing two companies over an oil spill off Louisiana’s coast on Aug. 8, 2022 —the opening day of shrimping season.

Roughly 200 of the plaintiffs are from Louisiana, with the rest from across the Gulf Coast. Thecase was filed last week in federal court in Houston.

Astorage tank on Hilcorp’soffshore platform north of Timbalier Island failed after WCC allegedly damaged it during an oil transfer,according to the complaint. The plaintiffs say Hilcorp neglectedto inspect the tank,which partially collapsed, fell into the Gulf, and spilled roughly 14,000 gallons of oil into nearby waters. The slick drifted into Lake Pelto, apopular fishing area southwest of Co-

codrie, prompting state officials to close about 33 square milesto oysterharvesting. Shrimpers say the contaminationfears upended their season Aspokesperson for Hilcorp,based in Houston, said theplatform’s automated systems immediatelyshut down when the spill was detected, and that the company quickly notified local, state and federal agencies. The companyalso said it contracted athird-party labto test shrimp in the area and confirmed theyweresafe for human consumption

KimberlyChauvin, the co-ownerofDavid Chauvin Shrimp Company in Dulac,isquotedinthe lawsuitexpressing her frustration over the difficulties the spill caused the shrimpingindustry “Fishermenare now confused on whetherthey should be taking achance of going out to shrimp,” she told The Houma Courier shortly after the spill. “Do you spend the money forsuppliestoget rejected at the dock for the sale of your shrimp? And docks are worried that if we buythe shrimp, arewe

goingtoget paid by the processors or will they reject the shrimp? This is ano-win situation for us.”

The plaintiffs accuse the companies of negligenceand of violating the federal Oil Pollution Act andstate environmental laws. They are seeking damages forthe lostprofits and damage to their gear and boats. They also want the court to order thecompanies to restore affectedfishing areas and take steps to “repair reputational damage done to Terrebonne Bay’sand Louisiana’sseafood industry. Richard J. Nava, the Houston-based attorney representing the plaintiffs, didnot immediately respond to arequest for comment. WCC also did not respond to arequest forcomment.

Hilcorp,one of the largest privately held oil companies in the U.S., reported more than a dozen spills in Louisiana after Hurricane Ida in 2021, and in 2018, paid $920,000 to settle claims that it dredged through oyster reefswithout a permit.

CLERK

Continued from page 1B

ordinances do tie the two positions together.But he pointed to the fact that they’vebeen separate since January

“The fact of the matter is, since the beginningof thisyear,wehaven’thad aCAO, but we have had a city clerk,” he said.

Disputes over minutes

The clerk helps maintain records, and the lack of adedicatedemployee

ultimatelyled to adispute over the accuracy of the June 9meetingminutes.

Whenpresented to the council for ratification, theminutes stated that Boudreaux introduced the general fund budget. He said thatdidn’thappen,and thecouncil amended the minutes.

Afew weeks later,Petite saidthe minutesneeded to be modified again to show that Boudreauxintroduced theordinance.

“Ifyou go back andwatch theYouTube, at the end of that discourse,the mayor said, ‘So, we’re introducing

the budget,’and nobody objected to it,” he said. Boudreaux was out of town at that meeting, but City Attorney Allen Davis made no formal motion to introduce the budget.

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on the Gulf Coast.

The Skydwellerproject was announced with much fanfareinMarch 2024, with news releases fromthe state of Mississippi praising the company and ahuge media gathering during which the company showed the aircraft,which resembles a giant glider but weighs less than aFord F-150 pickup.

Since then, the craft has performed well in aseries of tests, the latest of which piledup222 hours of air time over four separate flightsunder the watch of the U.S. Naval Air Warfare Center AircraftDivision. That testing includedthe 73- and74-hour flights, according to the company “Wereally showed the militaryhow it could work,” Millersaid. “Our goal is 90 days, andwethink we’re on our way to getting there.”

In anewsrelease last month,the Navy praised Skydweller,saying the recent testsmarked“asignificantadvancement” in long-endurance solar flight and the aircraft’s“potential to enhance maritime intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.”

The Navy also said the testing “validated the system’scommunication links, autonomous real-time decision making andabil-

Ultimately,the council passedover modifying the minutes again, and it hasn’tbeen brought up since.

Yeta similar problem occurred later in July,when the council was expected to reintroduce the budget. Instead, similartothe earlier meeting,nocouncil memberintroduced it.

The group had to hold a special meeting Aug. 4, and Turner argued theerror wouldn’thave happened with acity clerk “If we had acity clerk

ity to adapt to turbulent weather.” Because of Skydweller’s construction and weight, severe weather is athreat. But the recenttests provided someanswers, Miller said.

“Wedon’tfly through thunderstorms, but we fly between them,” he said.

Because the aircraft is designed to stay aloft for long periods, themilitary sees it as surveillancetool that could free up moretraditional aircraft forother operations, according to the company Skydweller’shuge wingspan is designed to help keep it aloft,while theaircraft’s 17,000 solarcells spend the day collecting sunlight and storing thatfuelinthe batteries that power the plane at speeds of around 35 mph andaltitudesupto40,000 feet.

SkydwellerAero, aprivately-heldcompany headquartered in OklahomaCity setupshopatStennis International in 2023, promising amultimillion-dollar investment. The company had $40 million from different investment groups.

Millersaid Skydweller is building asecond solarpowered aircraft, withthe parts being madeelsewhere andassembled at Stennis. He still envisions afleet of solar-powered aircraftflying out of Stennis.

“We’ve gottoraise some money,but with our success we’re seeing moreinterest,”

(the position has been vacant for months), the clerk would have caught the mistake,” he previously wrote in astatement. “Having a clerkisveryimportant to ensure themeetings are done properly.And this just proves that.”

At Monday’s meeting, he voted againstitand said he wanted thefull-time position.

Email Christopher Cartwrightatchristopher cartwright@theadvocate. com.

Millersaid. “People realize this is going to be agame changer.” Miller said the company is working with theMississippi Development Authority,the state’seconomic development agency,to build asecond hangar at Stennisthat the company would lease. Miller has said company plans to eventually grow the fulltime workforceto65to75 people in the next couple of years. “The Gulf Coastisa great homefor us,” he said.

Stocks rally on hopes for interest rate cuts

NEW YORK The U.S. stock market rallied to records on Tuesday after data suggested inflation across the country was a touch better last month than economists expected.

The S&P 500 rose 1.1% to top its all-time high set two weeks ago. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 483 points, or 1.1%, and the Nasdaq composite jumped 1.4% to set its own record.

Stocks got a lift from hopes that the better-than-expected inflation report will give the Federal Reserve leeway to cut interest rates at its next meeting in September.

Lower rates would give a boost to investment prices and to the economy by making it cheaper for U.S. households and businesses to borrow to buy houses, cars or equipment.

President Donald Trump has angrily been calling for cuts to help the economy, often insulting the Fed’s chair personally while doing so.

But the Fed has been hesitant because of the possibility that Trump’s tariffs could make inflation much worse Lowering rates would give inflation more fuel, potentially adding oxygen to a growing

fire That’s why Fed officials have said they wanted to see more data come in about inflation before moving.

Spirit Airlines sounds alarm on its future NEW YORK Just five months after emerging from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, Spirit Airlines is warning about its future ability to stay in business.

Spirit Aviation Holdings, the budget carrier’s parent company, says it has “substantial doubt” about its ability to continue as a going concern over the next year — which is accounting-speak for running out of money In a quarterly report issued Monday, Spirit pointed to “adverse market conditions” that it’s continued to face after a recent restructuring and other efforts to revive its business.

That includes weak demand for domestic leisure travel, which Spirit said persisted in the second quarter of its fiscal year — among other challenges and “uncertainties in its business operations” that the Florida company expects to continue “for at least the remainder of 2025.”

Spirit’s shares tumbled more than 40% Tuesday, with the company’s stock closing at $2.10.

YouTube to test age verification system

YouTube on Wednesday will begin testing a new age-verification system in the U.S. that relies on artificial intelligence to differentiate between adults and minors, based on the kinds of videos that they have been watching The tests initially will only affect a sliver of YouTube’s audience in the U.S., but it will likely become more pervasive if the system works as well at guessing viewers’ ages as it does in other parts of the world. The system will only work when viewers are logged into their accounts, and it will make its age assessments regardless of the birth date a user might have entered upon signing up. If the system flags a loggedin viewer as being under 18, YouTube will impose the normal controls and restrictions that the site already uses as a way to prevent minors from watching videos and engaging in other behavior deemed inappropriate for that age. The safeguards include reminders to take a break from the screen, privacy warnings and restrictions on video recommendations YouTube, which has been owned by Google for nearly 20 years, also doesn’t show ads tailored to individual tastes if a viewer is under 18.

La. companies make Inc. 5000 list

BY TIMOTHY BOONE Staff writer

Forty-eight Louisiana companies made the annual Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing companies, with a West Monroe construction firm ranking the highest. EPC, which builds and maintains fiber networks, ranked No. 202 on the list, after reporting 1,932% revenue growth between 2021 and 2024. EPC was founded in 2016. This is the first time EPC made the list.

Getpro Industrial of Prairieville, a female-owned business that sells fluid sealing products, such as gaskets and fasteners, to petrochemical plants was ranked 216. Getpro, founded by Kyle Landaiche, reported revenue growth of 1,771% over a three year period This was the first

time Getpro made the list.

Omega Foundation Services, a Slaughter civil and industrial heavy construction company, ranked 267 on the list, after reporting 1,467% revenue growth between 2021 and 2024. Omega was founded in 2019 and is led by Andrew Bennett. This is the second year in a row Omega made the list; last year, it was the highest-ranking company in the state.

Southern Coatings of Broussard made its first appearance in the Inc. 5000 at 545. The company, which provides painting and blasting services for water towers and storage tanks, posted 741% revenue growth over the three-year period. Southern Coatings was founded in 2021.

NOLA DMC, a New Orleans travel business, rose to 595 in its third appearance on the list. The busi-

ness is a destination management company that schedules events, activities and tours. It posted 696% growth.

Pulse eCitation Solutions of Baton Rouge debuted on the list at 628. The company provides technology that allows law enforcement officers to electronically generate and print citations. It saw its revenue grow by 664% over the past three years.

Currency Bank of Baton Rouge made its first appearance on the Inc. 5000 at 742. The community bank, which started in 2021, saw its revenue grow by 560% over the past three years. Crew One Productions, a New Orleans-based business that provides staffing for concerts, festivals and venues, also debuted on the list. The company was ranked at 927, after

U.S. inflation holds steady

Mild tariff hit offset by cheaper gas, food

BY CHRISTOPHER RUGABER AP economics writer

WASHINGTON U.S. inflation was unchanged in July as rising prices for some imported goods were balanced by falling gas and grocery prices, leaving overall prices modestly higher than a year ago.

Consumer prices rose 2.7% in July from a year earlier, the Labor Department said Tuesday, the same asthepreviousmonthandupfroma post-pandemic low of 2.3% in April.

Excluding the volatile food and energy categories, core prices rose 3.1%, up from 2.9% in June. Both figures are above the Federal Reserve’s 2% target.

The new numbers suggest that slowing rent increases and cheaper gas are offsetting some impacts of PresidentDonaldTrump’ssweeping tariffs Many businesses are also likely still absorbing much of the cost of the duties. Tuesday’s figures probably reflect some impact from the 10% universal tariff Trump imposed in April, as well as higher duties on countries such as China and Canada.

Brian Bethune, an economist at Boston College, said that overall U.S. tariffs calculated as the amount of duties paid by U.S. companies divided by overall imports — has reached 10%, the highest in decades, and will likely keep rising for months.

“Those cost increases will be passed on to the consumer in some way, shape, or form,” Bethune said. Some companies could return to “shrinkflation,” he added, in which they reduce the package size of a good while keeping the price the same.

Andcompaniesthatareabsorbing tariff costs, which would cut into their profit margins, are less likely to hire new employees, he said.

The Federal Reserve may now be in a difficult spot.

Hiring slowed sharply in the spring, after Trump announced tariffs in April. The stalling out of job gains has boosted financial market expectations for an interest rate

cut by the central bank at its next meeting in September, and some Fed officials have raised concerns about the health of the job market.

A rate cut by the Fed often, but not always, lowers borrowing costs for mortgages, car loans, and business loans.

Economists are divided over how Fed officials will read the data in the coming months Some argued that the worsening jobs picture will outweigh lingering inflation concerns and lead the Fed to cut at its next meeting in September Yet some say that with core inflation notably above 2% and rising, the Fed will postpone that decision.

Chair Jerome Powell has warned that worsening inflation could keep the Fed on the sidelines a stance that has enraged Trump, who has defied traditional norms of central bank independence and demanded lower borrowing costs.

On Tuesday, Trump attacked Powell again for not cutting rates and suggested he would allow a lawsuit against the Fed to proceed because of the rising costs of its extensive building renovation. It wasn’t clear what lawsuit he was referring to.

On a monthly basis, prices rose 0.2% in July down from 0.3% the previous month, while core prices ticked up 0.3%, a bit faster than the 0.2% in June. Gas prices fell 2.2% from June to July and have plunged 9.5% from a year earlier, the government’s report said Grocery prices slipped 0.1% last month, though they are still 2.2% higher than a year ago. Tariffs appeared to raise the cost of some imported items: Shoe prices jumped 1.4% from June to July, though they are still just 0.9% more expensive than a year ago. The cost of furniture leapt 0.9% in July and is 3.2% higher than a year earlier Coffee costs nearly 15% more than a year earlier mostly because of troubled harvests overseas, thoughsteepdutiesonimportsfrom Brazil could push those prices higher in the coming months. Nearly all U.S. coffee is imported. Tuesday’s data arrives at a high-

reporting 459% revenue growth. Lafayette-based FlyGuys, a drone and data technology company, was ranked at No. 1,022. It reported a 418% jump in revenue.

Another Lafayette company S1 Technology, also made the list at No. 1,068. The company, which offers IT support and service for smalland medium-sized businesses, had 401% revenue growth.

Companies submit data to make the Inc. 5000 list In order to qualify the business must have been founded and generated revenue by March 31, 2021. Businesses must be based in the U.S., privately held, for-profit and independent entities, not subsidiaries or divisions of other firms.

Email Timothy Boone at tboone@ theadvocate.com.

ly-charged moment for the Labor Department’s Bureau of Labor Statistics, which collects and publishes the inflation data. Trump fired Erika McEntarfer, then the head of BLS, after the Aug. 1 jobs report also showed sharply lower hiring for May and June than had previously been reported.

The president posted on social media Monday that he has picked E.J. Antoni, an economist at the conservative Heritage Foundation and a frequent critic of the jobs report, to replace McEntarfer

Adding to the turmoil at BLS is a government hiring freeze that has forced it to cut back on the data it collects for each inflation report, the agency has said. UBS economist AlanDetmeisterestimatesthatBLS is now collecting about 18% fewer price quotes for the inflation report than it did earlier this year He thinks the report will produce more volatile results, though averaged out over time, still reliable.

Smaller companies are trying to avoid raising prices and some have turned to novel ways of raising funds.

Clothing maker Princess Awesome, which designs matching clothes for children and adults, has seen its costs jump 15% to 20% because of the tariffs. The company hasjoinedalawsuitseekingtoblock the duties. Rebecca Melsky, CEO and co-founder of the firm, says it is prohibitively expensive to make the cotton blend fabrics it uses in the United States.

Fornow,thecompanyhasinstituted a “tip jar” on its website where it asks customers to help defray the cost of goods.

“We have not across the board raised prices because of the tariffs yet,” she said Trump has insisted that overseas manufacturers will pay the tariffs by reducing their prices to offset the duties. Yet the pre-tariff prices of imports haven’t fallen much since the levies were put in place.

Economists at Goldman Sachs estimate that foreign manufacturers have absorbed just 14% of the duties through June, while 22% has beenpaidbyconsumersand64%by U.S. companies.

BY FATIMA HUSSEIN Associated Press

WASHINGTON The U.S. budget deficit in July climbed 20% this fiscal year compared with the last despite the U.S. taking in record income from President Donald Trump’s tariffs, according to Treasury Department data released Tuesday The U.S. saw a 273% increase — or $21 billion — in customs revenue in July over the same period last year, the data showed. A Treasury official who spoke on the condition of anonymity to preview the data said overall increased spending is in part due to a mix of expenditures, including growing interest payments on the public debt and cost-of-living increases to Social Security payouts, among other costs. This comes as the federal government’s gross national debt creeps up to the $37 trillion mark Even as Trump talks about America becoming rich because of his import tax hikes, federal spending keeps outpacing the revenues collected by the government. That financial picture might change as companies exhaust their pre-tariff inventories, forcing them to import moregoodsandgenerateevenmore in tax revenues that could whittle awayatthedeficitwithoutmeaningfully reducing it as promised If tariffs fail to deliver on Trump’s pledgetoimprovethegovernment’s balance sheet, the American public could be faced with fewer job options, more inflationary pressures and higher interest rates on mortgages, auto loans and credit cards. The budget deficit is the annual gap between what the U.S. government raises in taxes and what it spends, over time feeding into the overall national debt.

While organizations like the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget say that tariff income can be a stream of meaningful revenue — estimated to generate about $1.3 trillion over the course of President Trump’s four-year term in office; someeconomistslikeKentSmetters of the University of Pennsylvania’s Penn Wharton Budget Model say tariffs are likely to result “ in only modest reductions in federal debt.” In June, the Congressional Budget Office estimated that President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariff plan would cut deficits by $2.8 trillion over a 10-year period while shrinking the economy, raising the inflation rate and reducing the purchasing power of households overall. But revenue estimates are also difficult to predict as the president has changed his tariff rates repeatedly and the taxes declared as part of an economic emergency are currently under appeal in a U.S court. ATreasuryofficialdidnotrespond to an Associated Press request for comment on when the U.S. could begin to see tariff revenue start to put a dent in the deficit.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said last month on Fox Business Network’s “Mornings with Maria” that the administration is “laser-focusedonbringingthisdeficitdown.” The Trump administration expects to make more trade deals with other nations, including China and other major economies.

$20M venturecapital fund targetsTulanealums

Startups,growing companies sought to bring work to La.

BY RICH COLLINS Staff writer

Anew venture capital fund hopes to tap into Tulane University’snationwide brand and activealumninetwork across the country to find both investorsand startup companies worthy of acash infusion.

New Orleans-based 1834 Ventures on Monday announced thelaunchofits inaugural $20 million startup fund and its first two investments Co-managing partners

PatrickHernandezand Evan Nicoll said they plan to leveragethe alumninetwork of Nicoll’salma mater, Tulane, to invest in and grow scalable ventures while encouraging them to bring their business to Louisiana.

“Tulane graduates and entrepreneurs who have participated in Tulane programminghave received a top-tiereducation,” Hernandez said.“We consider that acompetitive advantage. Plus, we know that Tulane grads around the country have an affinityfor New Orleans andLouisiana.”

“Weare hoping to capitalize on that to bring more business to the state,” he added.

Hernandez said the fund has raised $4.4 million in commitments from 30 investorsnationwide. Oneof those investors is the Louisiana Economic Development Corporation, which spends federal dollars dedicated to economic development by the Biden Administration.

The State Small Business Credit Initiative willmatch private dollars raised for investment

The fund’sfirst two investments areinCabana Mental Health Solutions, ahealth care platform, and Orion Longevity,maker of asmart mattress cover designed to improve sleep.

The fund, named in honor of Tulane’s founding year, is not affiliated with the university.Instead, it was created to “support and investininnovation emerging from its extended community,”saidHernandez,who spent more than four years as director of capital access at the New Orleans-based startup incubator Propeller

The new fund got SSBCI approval in February and

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the Da Vinci 5surgical robot, which performsminimally invasive procedures and lessens recovery time.

kickedoff fundraising shortly after “Wefocusedalot on hitting some bigger out-of-state markets, where people know that Louisiana hasthisinflux of capital,” Hernandez said. “Wewanted to buildmomentumoutside ofthe state first and then comeback.”

Thefundwillinvest both in newcompanies and in established ones that need capital to continuegrowing.

Attraction strategy

The first twobets from 1834 Ventures are on outof-state startups with Tulane ties.

Cabana is adigital mentalhealth platform servingU.S.militaryveterans.

Founded by Tulane alum David Black, thecompany is based in Annapolis, Maryland,but is planning an imminentmove to New Orleans

Cabana,which said it has secured seven-figures in annual recurring revenue throughfederal contracts, is partnering withOchsner to strengthen wellness and support initiatives for employees

The company provides online,on-demandtherapy with individualcounselors or small groups,aswell as workplace“pods,”physicalbooths whereusers can take tailored, short mental health breaks during the workday 1834’sother announced investment is in Orion Longevity,maker of mattress covers thatuse biometric sensors to monitor and optimize sleep. The company, ledbyTulane alum Harry Gestetner,aims to begin full productionthis fall. Its prototypes use high-tech methods to regulate users’ body temperatures.

The company will remain headquartered in Californiabut plans to findways for itssupply chaintorun through Louisiana.

“Wehave an attraction strategy,focusing notjust on companies based locally butalso ones willing to set up operations here or move back here,” Hernandez said.

1834 Ventures is working closely with the Tulane Innovation Institute and the Tulane Venture Fund on coinvestment, programming, and founder readiness.

“With 1834 Ventures now part ofLouisiana’sinvestmentscene, we’re openingmore doors for venturesready to launch and grow here,”saidKimberly Gramm, managing partner at Tulane Ventures.

In late August, thefund will co-lead atwo-part webinar series with the university’sInnovation Institute on venture capital fundamentals.Itwill be open to foundersand startup teams

1834 Ventures encourages applicationsfrom startups founded by Tulane alumni, students, faculty,staff and community,agroup that could include any business that participated in Tulane entrepreneurial support programming. But it is not limited to them.

It plans to invest in many different types of businesses and at different stages of development,including the pre-seed, seed and Series Astages. Check sizes will range from $50,000 to $1 million.

Rushingtoinvest

1834 Ventures is the ninth fund in the state approved to participateinthe State Small Business Credit Initiative administered by Louisiana Economic Development. The program, launched in 2023, could potentially provide up to $113 million in capital for the state’sentrepreneurs withanemphasis on supporting historically underservedcommunities. There are deadlines thathave to be met to unlock allthe money. The state’sprogram, recently rebranded “Louisiana Opportunity Capital,” has committed more than $25 million to nine participating funds, according to LED, which said 150 Louisianasmall businesses have received investmentor loans through the state program. The state addedadirect investment program the Louisiana Growth Fund, earlier this year in an effort to getdollars into the hands of entrepreneurs more quickly

The programsupplies public matching fundsfor privateinvestmentdollars up to aset amount. The state has committed$5 million in matching funds so farto1834 Ventures.

Ochsner Healthand Tulane are amongthoseoperating SSBCI-backedfunds Boot64 Ventureshas been amongthe most active, investing $5.8 million in 26 companies to date.

After the program’s slow launch, funds investing SSBCImoney have picked up thepace, in the hopes of unlocking all the potential federal matching dollars in the time allotted.

Otherfacilities in Louisianawith Da Vinci 5technology include Our Lady of Lourdes in Lafayette and Christus Ochsner Southwestern Louisiana, which both acquired the technology earlier thisyear

LJ BakerJr.,the hospital’schief strategic initia-

Thehospital plans to bring in new surgeons trained on the Da Vinci 5equipment. Intuitive, which produces the technology,will provide training to existing surgeons on staff.

tivesofficer and physician recruitment director,said thehospital does not own the Da Vinci5 equipment, but is seeking sponsors to fund the$2million technology.Hesaid the newsurgical robotslevel the playing field between Lane Regional and its competitors.

“It brings us to the21st century of operating room procedures,” he said.

Bonanno, Beth WilbertFuneralHomeinPortAllen at 4p.m

Henderson, Larry

EpiscopalChurch of theEpiphany, 303 W. Main Street in NewIberia, at noon.

LeDoux, Christopher

ResthavenFuneralHome, 11817

JeffersonHighway,at11:30 a.m.

Singleton,Alanna

Funerals Today alongtimeresidentof Geismar andfounding memberofthe Bald Head HuntingClub. John will be rememberedfor hisinfec‐tious smile,loveofa good LSU football or baseball game, John Waynemovies, and willingnesstohelp everyonehecalleda friend. Acelebration of life willbeheldata laterdate. Tohonor BigJohn’smem‐ory please planta tree or donatetoCoastal Conser‐vationAssociation of Louisiana at https://cca louisiana.com/donations/ form/.

OursoFuneralHome, 13533 Airline Hwy Gonzales,Laat12pm Johnson,Frank DeAngelo FrankDeAngeloJohnson entered into eternalrestin Baton Rouge, Louisianaon August3,2025. He wasa 41-year oldnativeofBaton Rouge anda resident of Zachary,Louisiana.View‐ing at Miller &Daughter MortuaryonSaturday, Au‐gust16, 2025 at 8:00 am until CelebrationofLife Service at 10:00amcon‐ductedbyPastorBarbara Dunn; intermentatKing Solomon B.C. Cemetery Survivors includehis mother, Sharon JohnsonBrown (Dwight); father, Tyrus C. Hampton; son, DamarionJohnson;mater‐nal grandmother, Virgina Johnson;siblings, Natasha and TyrusJohnson;other relatives andfriends

Obituaries

Bonin, Shirley Medver

In Loving Memory of Shirley Bonin June 19, 1932 -August 9, 2025. Shirley Bonin, age 93, passed away peacefully on August9 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on June 19, 1932, Shirley lived alife defined by grace, quiet strength, and unwavering devotion to those she held dear. Shirley was the heart of her family—always ready with awarm smile, alistening ear, anda gentle word. Her kindness, wisdom, and steady presence touched everyone she met, and her legacy lives on in the generations she nurtured. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donald Bonin Sr.; her parents, Thomas Medver Sr. and Irene Hebert Medver; and her brothers, Thomas Medver Jr. and Carl Medver. Though they are deeply missed, Shirley's reunion with them brings comfort to those who remain. She is survived by her children: Donald Bonin, Jr. (Lynda), Brett Bonin (Dale), Laurie Bonin,and Nancy Orloff (Eric Wood); hergrandchildren: Jonathan Bonin, Kelli Bonin,Blakeley Barker (James), Brittany Carline (Sam), and Elise Kruder (Zach); and her greatgrandchildren: Lauren Barker, Cameron Carline,and Lillian Carline, expected to arrive in October. Shirley is also survived by numerous beloved nieces and nephews, each of whom held aspecialplace in her heart. Familywas Shirley's greatest joy. She found purpose in caring for others, and her love was a constant source of comfort and strength. Her memory willbecherished always, and her spirit will continue to guide those who knew and loved her The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Gerald Barber, Dr. Gerald Miletello, and Dr. William S. Kubricht III for their compassionate care. They also wishtoexpress deep gratitude to the residents and staff of Williamsburg Retirement Community for their love and support over the past several years. Avisitation will be held on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church, 445 Marquette Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70815, beginning at 9:00 a.m., followed by aMass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m. Burial willtake place at Greenoaks Memorial Park.

2025. Janewas bornin Church Point,LA. She attendedschoolinBaton Rouge and spent her entire 49 year careeratKrispy Kreme Doughnuts. Jane lovedthe fact that she had madedoughnuts forseveral generations of families throughout theBaton Rouge area. She was preceded in death by her parents, Rufus P. Lejeune,Sr. and Mable Meche Lejeune and one brotherRufus P. Lejeune,"Jr." She is survivedbyher sisterDolores McClendon (James), Brother Ashton Lejeune (Leisa), GodchildToniaFontenot (Shelby), Nephew Scotty McClendon (Melissa), NephewJoeyLejeune Niece Crystal Lejeune, NephewJeremyLejeune, NephewJ.D.Lejeune,Niece Natasha Lejeune and many Great-Nieces and Nephews.A graveside service willbeheldat11am, Friday, August 15, 2025, at GreenOaks Funeral Home and Cemetery, 9595 Florida Blvd. Baton Rouge, LA 70815

Larry Leon Kidwell, a beloved husband,father, grandfather,great grand‐fatherand amentorto manywho wasimmensely loved.Larry Kidwell, 78,of Clinton passedawayathis homeinthe earlyhours of August 10th,2025 sur‐rounded by hislovingfam‐ily.OriginallyfromLouisville, Illinois,hestarted his aviation career in Lafayette,Laworking for Petroleum HelicoptersInc Helater worked forPaul Fournet andwas active in the Commemorative Air‐force (CAF)and chiefme‐chanicona WWII P38 fighter, “The Scatterbrain Kid”along with othervin‐tage aircraft.Through his hardworkand love foravi‐ation,heacceptedthe po‐sitionofthe Director of FlightServices(DOM) of the StateofLouisiana in 1972, he then movedto Baton Rougewhere he re‐maineduntil he retiredin 2020. LarryKidwell wasthe recipient of theFAA Charles Taylor “MasterMe‐chanicAward”, apresti‐gious honorrecognizing his 50+years of servicein the aviation industry.Heis precededindeath by his fatherLeonKidwell andhis motherDella Kidwell. He is survivedbyhis doting wife of43years,Mellisa “Faye” Kidwell.His children:Brian Kidwell,StaceyDupre and husband DerrickDupre, Bridget KidwellThibodaux and husband Chad Thibo‐daux, Christie Evansand fiancé BasilCrawfordand Jennifer KidwellSinclair and husband Jeremy Sin‐clair.Grandchildren:Liam Kidwell,Ashlyn Langley and partnerLucas LeCoq, ConnerLangley andwife ClaireLangley,LoganLang‐ley,Presley Dupre, Alex Westcott, Kira Thibodaux, Rylee Romano,Blakely LeBourgeois,Bella LeBour‐geois,Brooklynn LeBour‐geois andEastonSinclair. Great grandchild:Evelyn Langley.Brothersinlaw and sistersinlaw:Ricky Richard,JoeyRichard Patsy Ball,Glynn Ball, Eliza‐beth“Kootsie” Bauerand RickBauer Numerous niecesand nephewsand special niece, Nannette Curry.Visitationwillbeat Charlet FuneralHomein Zachary on Thursday,Au‐gust14, 2025 from 3pm until serviceat6pm con‐ductedbyChaplainBooker Baskin. Sharesympathies, condolences,and memo‐riesatwww.CharletFune ralHome.com

Tara Marie Manzulloof Baton Rouge,Louisiana, passed away on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at theage of 61. She wasborn on November 14, 1963, to Thomas Anthony Manzullo and Marie Montz Manzullo in BatonRouge.Tara was a member of St. George Catholic Church. She is survivedbyher parents, Thomas and Marie Manzullo; brother Michael Manzulloand Fran MessinaManzullo;niece, Isabella Hope Manzullo; nephew, Dominick Michael Manzullo; and numerous cousins

Relatives and friends are invitedtoattend a Mass of ChristianBurialat St.GeorgeCatholicChurch, 7808 St.GeorgeDrive in BatonRouge,onThursday, August 14, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. Avisitationwillbe held at thechurch beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment willfollow at St GeorgeCemetery Mausoleum. The family wouldliketo give aspecial thanksto Mary BirdPerkinsand The Butterfly Wing of Baton Rouge General- Mid City. Family and friends may sign theonline guestbook or leave apersonal note to thefamily at www.resthav enbatonrouge.com.

Paul Anthony Milano, 88, passed away peacefully at hishome on Sunday, August 10, 2025, surrounded by theloveofhis family.A devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, Paul touched countless liveswithhis generous spirit and kind heart

lost his best fur bud, 'Rosco', truly aman's best friend. Aproud graduateofAscension CatholicHigh School, Class of 1955, Paul treasured his lifelong friendshipswith his classmates. He served honorably in theU.S.Navyfrom 1955 to 1957 as aSeaman during peacetime. Hiscareer included 12 years with MobileOil,where he formed lasting bondswith his coworkers, followedby decadesasa dedicated farmer, harvesting soybeans and sugarcane from 1975 until his retirementin 2004. Paul liveda life rooted in serviceand community. He was an activemember of theKnightsofColumbus, theSt. Joseph's Altar Society in Donaldsonville, theMaintenance and Building CommitteeatSt. Anthony of Padua in Darrow, where he was a parishioner, and aFarm Bureau and ASCS board member. Always ready to lend ahand,Paulbrought his skills as amaster woodworker to projects bigand small. One of his proudestaccomplishmentswas restoring the confessional at Ascension Catholic, originallybuilt by his grandfather.

Aboveall,Paul was a man of faith and family.He cherished theMilanofamily reunions, thehours spent at theballfield with his grandchildren, and the joyofgathering with those he loved. Hislarger-thanlife smile,generous heart, and unwavering love for others willbedearly missed by allwho knew him.

The family wouldliketo thank alldevoted caregivers, especially those who traveled this fulljourney with them- Ilena Bernard, Sandra Brown, and thelate PatHarris. In addition,thanks to Dr. Aguillard,Dr. Yadlapati, Renal Associates, and Pinnacle PalliativeCare for their excellent healthcare.

Family and friends are invitedtoa wake on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Ourso FuneralHome, 13533 Airline Hwy, Gonzales,LA 70737. Visitation willcontinue on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at St. Anthonyof Padua Catholic Church, 37311 LA-22, Darrow, LA 70725, beginning at 8:00 a.m.,followedbya Mass of ChristianBurial at 11:00 a.m. Burial willtakeplace at Hope HavenGarden of Memory in Gonzales. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be madetoSt. JudeChildren's Research Hospital in Paul's honor. Words of condolence and fond memoriesmay be shared with thefamily at www.OursoFH.com.

urday, August 16, 2025 at ResthavenGarden of Memory &Funeral Home, 11817 JeffersonHwy.

With heavy hearts and profound love,weannounce thepassing of KelseyLouise Watson on August 9, 2025. Sheleft this worldfar too soon at theage of 34 after acourageous 11-year battle with Huntington's Disease.Born on May27, 1991, Kelsey grew up in Prairieville, Louisiana. Sheisloved andremembered by her devotedparents -Paula andJim Scarton,sisters Jessica (Blake), Abigail (Jared), and Katherine,and grandfather HenryScarton Shewas theproud aunt to Leah,Adalyn,Henry, and Levi,who were aconstant source of joyinher life. Shewas also blessed to have many aunts, uncles, andcousins. She was predeceased by herfather, Craig S. Watson, Jr., grandparents Josephine and Howard Brown,Eileen Scarton,Patricia Montgomery andCraig Watson, Sr,and special friend Morgan Hebert.Kelsey attended LSUand graduatedfrom Southeastern University with abachelor'sdegree in business administration Shewas a2009 graduate of DutchtownHigh whereshe wasa member of DutchtownSoundMarching bandand colorguard. Familyand friends were thecenter of Kelsey's world. Buying gifts and makingcardsfor them broughther great joyand she loved spoilingher nieces and nephews. Kelseyworshipped at Lake MartinBaptist Church whereshe helpedwith Sunday School andVacation Bible School. She truly possessed love,joy,peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. She neversaw herselfasdisabled,was always positive, andlived life to the fullest eachday. Her courage andresilience touched many family, friends, caregivers, and medical professionalswho were luckyenough to have known her. Therewereno strangers to Kelsey; she hadthe abilitytomake friends immediately; her life wasa lesson in hope andlove. Special thanks for theloving care provided by Dr.Sarah Perez, Dr Victor Sung,Dr. Robert Branstetter, JackiePham, Amedisys Home Health& Hospice,Clarity at the Crossing Hospice,and her devotedfriend andcaregiver Stephanie Paulino.Visitation will be August 16 at 10:00 a.m. with service at 11:30 a.m. both at St.Andrew'sUnited Methodist Church, 17510 Monitor Ave Baton Rouge Intermentwill follow the service at SerenityOaks Memorial Park, 15304 Hwy 73, Prairieville.Inlieuof flowers, the familykindly asks fordonations in Kelsey's memory to Huntington's Disease Societyof America.

Zeringue, Lloyd Andrew

Lloyd Andrew Zeringue passedawaypeacefullyat OchsnerO'Neal surrounded by his familyonSaturday, August 9, 2025, at the age of 86. He wasa retired sugarcanefarmer and retiredoperator with Iberville Parish,resident of Plaquemineand anative of Modeste, LA. Lloyd was a U.S. Army Veteranand a member of the National Guard. Visitation willbe held at St.Johnthe Evangelist Catholic Church Plaquemine on Thursday, August 14, 2025, from 11am untilMass of Christian Burial at 1pm, celebrated by Father Martin Lawrence. Entombment will follow at GraceMemorial Park, Plaquemine Lloyd is survived by his wife of 56 years, Joyce David Zeringue; daughters, Patti Zeringue(KarlMitch Mayeux), andHeidi Zeringue; grandson, Michael Marionneaux (SaraChristine); siblings, L.J. Zeringue(Annette), ElsieSchexnayder (Arthur), AudreySchexnayder, Jennie White(Billy), Kay Marix Martin(Al), Patsy Lamothe(Dale), Johnny Zeringue(Marilyn), and Debbie Willie (Jeff); and numerousnieces and nephews. Preceded in death by hisparents, Louis andJeanneLeBlanc Zeringue; andbrother,Ray Zeringue. Pallbearers will be Michael Marionneaux KarlMitchMayeux, Travis David, Kent Burgess, Austin Palmer, Blaine Callender,Monty Marionneaux, andNathaniel Chaney. Honorary pallbearers will be Josh Langlois, Brandon Cutrer, ArthurSchexnayder, III, Mark Zeringue, andDavid LoBue. Lloyd was adevoted Christian wholoved the Lord. Hisloves in hislife were hisgrandson, his tractors, hisSaintsand Yankees. During his time in theNational Guard, he was aboxer andwas very proudofhis accomplishments. Special thanks to Dr.Zackary Bruce,his staff,Dr. Talukder, his staff,OchsnerO'Neal Doctors andNurses, Stat Home Healthespecially Laney Messina, Ivy Germillion, andPorsha Etienne, andSt. Joseph Hospice theirstaff especially Randi Simonfor all theirloving care and devotion showntoLloyd. Also special thanks to Sister Dulce, CypressSprings Mercedarian Prayer Center andstaff, andtoour church familyatHousehold of FaithinBenton,AR for all of theirprayers.In lieu of flowersmemorial donationsmay be made to CypressSprings Mercedarian Prayer Center.Please share memories online at www.wilbertservices.com.

Agreat dayfor John Allen Denstorffincludeda boatride, fishing, hunting, timeatthe beachoronhis houseboat,and acrawfish boilwithfamilyand friends.While he’s seen his lastday at hishunting camp, hisfriends and loved ones canhangonto memoriesmadewithJohn overhis 68 yearsoflife. He diedAug.10, 2025, sur‐rounded by hisfamilyand faithfuldog, Buddy. He’s survivedbyhis wife of 43 years,Darlene;son and daughter-in-law Fred Den‐storffand Reni Elewonibi; and daughter Anna Den‐storff. He wasprecededin death by hisparents Charles andAgnes Den‐storff; andbrother,Charles Denstorff.John, born and raised in BatonRouge,was Lejeune, Clara Jane Clara Jane "Nanny" Lejeune, 76 went home to be with the lordonJuly24,

He is survivedbyhis belovedwife of 64 years, WandaOubre Milano, and their four children: Mona MilanoRodrigue(Ronnie Sr.), KimMilano, RaeMilano,and Nicholis Milano (Kelly). Paul was theproud "Grandpa"toMeredith Gaudet (Chad), Melissa Rodrigue,Ronnie RodrigueJr. (Casey),Ryan Rodrigue (Macy), Brennan Milano (Lauryn), Nicholis Milano, Lexi Arceneaux (Ethan), along with threestepgrandchildren. His greatgrandchildren—Grant Gavin,and AliGaudet; JosephRodrigue;Carter Milano—and nine stepgreat-grandchildren brought him endless joy. He is also survivedbyhis sisters,Sybil Savoieand Myrna DuBois. Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Nicholas and Maude Robert Milano, and hissister, Janice Thiac. He also

Cassidyshould fightfor vaccine research

When U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy backed RobertF Kennedy Jr.tolead the Department of Health and Human Services, the respected Baton Rouge physician and longtime vaccine advocate admitted that the decision had been difficult Kennedyiswell known for advocating policies that fall well outside mainstream medical thinking, particularly when it comes to vaccination. But Cassidy said at the time he would consult regularly with Kennedy,and use his oversight authority as chair of the Senate’sHealth,Education, Labor and Pension Committeeto“rebuff any attempts to remove the public’saccessto lifesaving vaccines without ironclad,causational scientificevidence that can be defended before the mainstream scientific community and before Congress.” The senator alsovowed to “carefully watch for anyeffort to wrongfully sow public fearabout vaccines...” With Kennedy’s recent revocation of almost $500 million in development contracts fornew vaccinesusing mRNA technology,we callon Cassidytodojust that.

Cassidy has already taken the first stepof publicly opposing Kennedy’smove, which affects22projects aimed at preparing fornational health emergencies. These vaccines can be developed and adjusted rapidly; theywere widely employed during the COVID pandemic, and scientists believe they have great potential to addressawide range of deadly diseases

“It is unfortunate that the Secretaryjust canceled ahalf abillion worth of work, wasting the money which is already invested,” Cassidy wroteonX.“He has also conceded toChina an importanttechnology needed to combat cancer andinfectious disease. President Trumpwants to Make America Healthy Again and Make AmericaGreat Again. This works against both of President Trump’sgoals.”

He’shardly alone in hiscriticism. Prominent researchers around the country aresounding alarms, as are several leading officialsfrom President Donald Trump’sfirst administration.

“Weknow that by the most conservativeestimates over 2million lives have beensaved becauseofmRNA technology.It helped us develop COVID vaccines in record time. It’squite frankly President Trump’s greatestachievement,” wrote Trump’sfirst surgeon general Jerome Adams, in asocial mediapostthat Cassidy retweeted.

We admit we were disappointed thatCassidy chose to cast his pivotal nomination vote on Kennedy’sbehalf, even as we were glad tohear of his plan to be an active partner incrafting ourcountry’shealth care agenda.

So while we applaudCassidy for speaking out on the mRNA decision, we hope he won’t stop there. We urge him to call Kennedy before his committee, ask hard questions, hear from experts and do everything inhis official power to reverseorminimize effects of apolicy that will harm the nation’sreadiness for the next pandemic,and also needlessly undermine confidenceinother promising uses forthis important technology,including in the fight against cancer We know this is not astance Cassidy is eager to take as he approaches next year’s election, but we believe lives depend on it. Based on his own words, we suspect that Cassidy does too.

LETTERSTOTHE EDITOR ARE WELCOME. HERE AREOUR

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

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

TO SEND US A LETTER, SCANHERE

OPINION

Ruralresidents andveterans need afairpharmacysystem

Recently,guest essayist Rob Maness suggested banning pharmacy benefit managersfrom owning pharmacies in Louisianawould create disruptions in care for veterans and rural residents. However,this perspective overlooks critical issues with PBM practices and thebroader implications for Louisianans, especially veterans. Maness’ claim that banning PBMowned pharmacies would harm veterans and rural residents is misleading. In truth, PBMsoften exploit these populations by funneling them into mailorder systems that lack transparency and accountability.TRICARE, the federally funded health plan for service membersand veterans, contracts with aFortune 15 corporation whose PBM pushes beneficiaries to fill their prescriptions through itsprivately contracted PBM mail-order pharmacy Veterans and service members may use themilitary base pharmacy,but there are only three militarybases in thestate.

Under the TRICARE PBM’splan, basic generic medications like Atorvastatin, which costs an average of $8.47 for a90-day supply without insurance, costsmore than $500 through

The recent killings of Gazans attemptingtoget food at distribution pointsbring up adisturbing question. Why is this still happening? Is thekilling of scores of innocent civilians a necessary byproduct of the killing of, possibly,one or two Hamas terrorists?

The entire civilized world has been looking on in horror and disgust as this continues to occur.People, women and children are starving for no acceptable reason. Why don’tthe responsible nations of

TRICARE’sPBM-owned mail-order pharmacy.Inaddition,TRICARE’s PBM offersLouisiana independent pharmacies contracts with reimbursements so unsustainablylow that very few local pharmacies can afford to join theTRICARE network. How does lack of access to alocal pharmacy benefit veterans and rural residents? Big box and national chainpharmacies rarely set up shop in rural areas, and patients cannot have arelationship with amail-order pharmacy or its call center Maness’ suggestionthat independent pharmacies “lack the capacity” to fill gaps left by PBM-owned pharmacies ignores the reality that independent pharmacies are often theonly healthcare providers in rural areas. Banning PBM-owned pharmacies is anecessary move toward afairer moretransparent health care system that also reverses instead of creates pharmacy deserts. Veterans, rural residentsand all Louisianans deserve asystem that works forthem,not against them.

MONIQUE WHITNEY executivedirector,Pharmacists United for Truth and Transparency

theworld take action? Inform Israel and Hamas that multiple food distribution locations will be established in Gaza, backed up by United Nations troops and materiel, whowill ensure that any disruptions in food distribution will be met with appropriate force. This might take awhile to establish,but the alternative is not what acivilized society shouldbeaccepting. Where is therest of the world?

PAUL MAJOR Livonia

Peter Chol’sletter to the newspaper on July 19 about opinion columnist Cal Thomas hit thenail on the head. He didn’tmince words and the points he madewere unvarnished.

Thomas has consistently proven that his opinions are delusional, ignorant and mean, typical of awide swath of

Americansnowadays. He is transparent as awar hawk, and the persona he depictsinhis opinions reveals his intolerance of diplomacy and peace.

Thank you, Peter Chol. Icouldn’t agree more.

GENE PAQUETTE Breaux Bridge

This refers to an article in the July 21 edition regarding ameeting to be held in Lafayette on Sept. 8on absenteeism.The meeting is being called by Chief Justice John Weimer of the Louisiana Supreme Court and is expected to include teachers, principals, district attorneys and judges. There is no mention of parent input. The first teacher of any student is their parents. Even the lack of parents is alearning experience. The people most responsible for their children to be in the classroom are the parents. Isuggest they consider including across-section of parents in this meeting. That is, low-income single parents, parents who send their children to school by school bus and those who are able to deliver and pick up their children every day If achild is legitimately absent from school, their parents are/should be aware, if the student is absent without cause, the school administration is responsible for advising parents and Families in Need of Services to offer assistance at the source. Instead of attempting to put aBand-Aid on the problem, let us try to treat the problem from the source If parents do not care if their student is absent on agiven day or days, they should be required to state such and bear the consequences. The community and officials should look to them as the responsible party

JOSEPH ZEHNER Metairie

The erosion of ourdemocracy was not caused by the workofthe farrightbut thework of thefar left Theystarted withour institutionsof higherlearning. The farleft began to attack ourdemocracy before the SecondWorldWar

MARIE SPICUZZA Kenner

Time forDemocrats to get seriousabout politicalfuture

Gee, what’shappened to the“silly season”ofU.S. politics?

That’swhat many of us in thedaily journalism trade used to call the periods, usually in latesummer or nearholidays, when news media put an unusually intense focus on lighthearted or frivolous stories duetoa shortage of more serious news. We currently have no such shortage. Even latebreaking investigations and speculation surrounding thesuicide of President Donald Trump’slate friend Jeffrey Epstein have had to compete witha ferocious partisan war within some of thestates over redistricting.

Consider Texas, where Republicans in the statelegislature are attempting, at Trump’surging, to redraw congressional districtsinorder to flipfive more districts to Republican majorities. Democratic legislators have fled the state to deny the legislature aquorum, in hopes of preventing Republicans from carrying out their plan

Some have taken refuge in Illinois, leading Texas Republicanstocall for their arrest by the FBI. Illinois’ Gov. JB Pritzker has vowed to protect them.

“Donald Trump is trying to steal five seats from the people —frankly,ofthe country,not just the people of Texas— and disenfranchise people,” Pritzker said on “The Late Show withStephen Colbert.” “We’re talking aboutviolating theVoting Rights Act andthe Constitution.

Pritzker also declined to turn away from the possibility of amid-decade congressional remap in his own state He told Colbert: “It’spossible. I’ve said everythingisonthe table. We’ve gotta fightfire with fire.”

Are we starting to see thehardball attitude that many frustrated Democrats have been urging their national party to adopt?

Still smarting from the debacle of Joe Biden’s2024 candidacy and thesubsequent defeat of the Kamala Harris/Tim Walz ticket, Dems appear increasingly ready to face areal threat to their ability to regain power in 2026 and beyond. For their part, Republicansare not trying to hide their determination to gerrymander their way outofamidterm backlash in November 2026. Vice President JD Vance visited Indiana to urge lawmakers to redraw their congressional map. It’salreadya reliably Republican-voting state,but itappears the GOP wants to leave nothingto chance.

Ifind it to be no small irony that these battle lines are forming on the60th anniversary of the 1965 VotingRights Act.

Someof us areold enough to remember the feeling that anew page in American history had been turned when that law was enacted. We believed that itwould finally end thedenial and dilution of Black voting power

That dream,once won, now must be defended once again.

Frankly,it’sbeen anever-ending chore. Thelast time House Democrats held the majority,they introduced a sweepingpackage of good-government reforms, including acenterpiece legislation to endpartisan gerrymandering.

“The people should choose their politicians,” then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in 2021 beforethe House passed the For thePeople Act, which would later dieinthe Senate. “Politicians should not bechoosing their voters.”

Of course, choosing their voters is precisely what Trumpand Republican legislatures intend to do. Trump’steam haspushed Republicans to redraw maps“wherever redistricting is an option.”

Democrats can’tafford to respond with anything less. Indeed, some Democrats, such as California Gov.Gavin Newsom, are switching from their past

lofty positions in favor of bipartisan redistricting commissions toembracing theidea of fighting fire withfire. Pelosi, who remains amember of the U.S. House, said that while Democrats favor nationwide independent commissions to draw congressional district maps, they “cannot and will not unilaterally disarm.”

Recentpolling trends show eroding support for Trump’sactions and policies, which can aptly summed up as “reverse Robin Hood” with apolicestatesideshow.This is especially the case among independents but is noticeable even among Republicans, many of whom no doubt realize their president is off the chain. Abig opportunityisopening for challengers who can show voters sanity, humanityand the backbone to standuptothe schoolyard bully in theOval Office. AndDemocrats have shown before that they can rise from theslough of despond to winanelectoral mandate. This normally silly season has turned sinister,and thestakes to Democrats are existential. Their first step in winning back voters is showing they’re willing to fight.

Email Clarence Page at clarence47page@gmail.com

GREENSBURG —OnMonday, 16-year-old ChristopherWilliams stood in awood-paneled St. Helena courtroom and pleaded guilty to second-degreemurder

Some fads end slowly,taking up to ageneration to wane. Othersare like lightning, bursting on the scene unexpectedly,destroying all in itspath. This is what has happened in the Sydney Sweeney storm.Anadfor American Eagle blue jeans and especially the reaction to it catapulted the 27-year-old actress to national fame and controversy Move over,Taylor Swift!

In case you weren’t paying attention, thead shows Sweeney reclining while zipping up a pair of jeans and flashing alittle cleavage. What sparked the woke left’s attention and outrage was thead copy which invoked adouble meaning: “It’s not just good genes. Sydney Sweeney has great jeans.” Critics claim the ad promotes eugenics.

Critics also began likening the reference to genes, instead ofjeans, tothe pursuit of amaster race by the Nazis. The reaction was swift. American Eagle Jeans flew off the shelves. The company stock soared 25% one day.Onhearing that Sweeney is a Republican, President Donald Trump said, “If Sydney Sweeney is aregistered Republican, Ithink her ad is fantastic. Thetide has seriously turned. Being WOKE is for losers, being Republican is what you want to be.” Sweeney’svoting precinct is in Florida’smost southern and conservative Monroe County.Liberal outrage

from 51% to 40%.Itisnot likely to go higher for some time, if at all.

As for those American Eagle jeans, we’re not talking about the “No Excuses” jeanspromoted by Donna Rice after her affair with Sen. Gary Hart, D-Colo., became public in 1987, or the “You’ve Got the Power” ad featuring aMonica Lewinsky clothing line after her sexual encounterswith President Bill Clinton. Thoseads wereexploiting what might be called negative celebrity. The Sweeney ads and theleft’sreaction to them are combating thecultural zeitgeist.

surged further when avideo showed her firing agun on agun range. What this signals is that promoters of the culture wars are losing. The recent resignation of Jaguar CEO AdrianMardell also proves the point. Jaguar created an ad featuring people wrapped in shades of pink. No cars appeared in the ad. It was made to introduce an all-electric product line beginning next year.Jaguar buyers rebelled. So did some dealerswho knew their customers didn’twant a single option. One person posted on social media “I don’town aJaguar,but if Idid Iwould sellit.” Jaguar owners, like most of the rest of thecountry, want the freedom to choose the type of car they wish to buy.According to aGallup poll in March, interest in owning an electric car has dropped

Comedian Bill Maher saidthis about theSweeney backlash on his HBO show: “In other uncomfortable racial news,sad news, we found out this week that Sydney Sweeney is aNazi. “No she’snot, but you’ve seen the ad This is avery important ad that we’re seeing now,thereshe is dressed like Jay Leno in all blue denim. And shetalks about thefact that shehas blue eyes and then saysshe has great jeans, you know,because she’swearing jeans! Butaccording to the woke people this means she’saWhitesupremacist.

“I also (think) it’spretty funny that all the online social justice girls are like ‘it’s racist, there is no such thing as good genes.’ Right, and then you go on Tinder and swipe left on everybald guy.”

Iwonder if American Eagle carries my size?

Email Cal Thomasattcaeditors@ tribpub.com

The pleacame nearly two yearsafter Williams opened fire into acar in the parking lot of St. Helena College and Career Academy, killing 16-year-old Vernon Gordon Jr.and wounding two others. The case, which grippedthe tiny St. HelenaParish community,vividly laid bare the gapbetween the idealsofjusticeand the messiness of their application, especially whenitcomes to young offenders. Williams wasjust 14 at the time of the crime. And even though he wastriedasanadult, as part of his plea, he receiveda nine-year sentence.Thatfar shorter than the mandatory life sentencefor second-degree murderthat most adult offenders get.

Before agreeing to the plea, DistrictAttorneyScottPerrilloux told me his staff had to navigate some thorny challenges.

“There’s no owner’smanualthat dictates howtohandle asituation like this,” Perrilloux said afterthe hearing. “There’snoformula.”

One of the first decisions was whether to try to have the casetransferred to adult court. If the casestayedinjuvenile court, andWilliams was found guilty,hecould nothaveremained in jail past his 21stbirthdayand his record would have remainedsealed.

Given the nature of the crime, the juvenile limitation“wasn’tsufficient” for this case, Perrilloux said. So prosecutors successfully moved to have the case transferred to adult court. Evenwith the case in adult court, because Williams wasjust 14, he cannotbejailed past his 31stbirthday, Perrilloux said.

Finally,eventhough there was little doubt thatWilliams wasthe shooter,getting aconvictionwasn’tnecessarily aslamdunk. Williams’ attorneyplanned to argue that the boy feared for his safety afterbeing bulliedby Gordon. Perrilloux worried thatcould affect the jury

“Having 12 people agree on just about anything is difficult,”hetoldme.

Hence, the pleadeal and the nine years. With credit fortime served and good time, Williams could be outbythe time he’s 24 yearsold. Though he’ll be aconvictedfelon,he’ll still have most of his life before him.

Along the wooden benches in the courtroom Mondaywereplenty who didn’tsee that as justice. About 20 of Gordon’sfriends and relativeshad come to the hearing, many wearing shirts emblazonedwith his picture.Before handing down the sentence, state District Judge Jeffrey Johnsonallowed several of themtospeak

“I’m so broken,”his grandmother said. She askedhow this could have happenedatschool, where hergrandsonshould have been safe.

“Theychangedour family forever,” Marquelle Bernard-Gordon, Gordon Jr.’smother, said. The killing had been especially hard on hertwo younger children, she said. “No one wins in this.”

His father,Vernon GordonSr.,saidthe killing would forcehis “family to serve alife sentenceofgrief.”

“Wefeel like this was done to secure aquick conviction,”hesaid, accusing prosecutors of notworking hard enough. “Wefeel we have no choice but to acceptthis plea deal.”

On the otherside of the aisle, far fewer had come to support Williams. But of the handful thatdid, severalworematching orange shirts emblazonedwith abiblical reference on the front and“Standing in love with Cjaye”writtenonthe back

Forhis part, Williams spoke only when addressedbythe judge.During Gordon’sfamily’scomments, he looked down with folded hands.

Perrilloux understands the families’ frustration. One lost ason forever.Another is losing onetoyearsbehind bars. Their versions of what justiceisare not the same.

“People want tough on crimeuntil it’stheir family,thentheywantmercy,” he said. “We want to do the right thing but figuring out what thatisisnot always abright line.”

Outside the courthouse,Marquelle and VernonSr. stood with alife-size cutout of their son. The hearing took place five days after what would have been his 18thbirthday. In the cutout, he’s wearing abow tie, awhite shirt andAir Jordansneakers. Abright smile lights up his face.

Theyhope, with the case resolved, that they’ll finally be able to move on “This is the beginning of closure,” Marquelle said. “I feel like this is the beginning.”

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

Baton RougeWeather

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SPORTS

SOLE FOCUS

BY REED DARCEY Staff writer

What’s another 7 pounds?

Trey’Dez Green said he’s already packed on about 20 in the two weeks since LSU began preseason camp. Only a few more, and he’ll be back up to the weight at which he finished last football season Green no longer has to slim down to play basketball after shifting his full focus to football following his freshman season at LSU when he played both sports. He now is focusing on developing into a complete tight end after LSU asked him to direct most of his attention to the passing attack a year ago. The sophomore already can run routes and catch. What needs to improve is his blocking, the skill that — if perfected can turn him into an everydown player and one of the top tight ends in the country The first step is adding the weight

back, so what’s his secret?

WR Thomas flashes as LSU defense excels

BY WILSON ALEXANDER Staff writer

Zavion Thomas leapt for a ball thrown down the seam Tuesday morning as LSU worked on red-zone situations.

DJ Pickett, a 6-foot-5 cornerback, had tight coverage, but the 5-10 wide receiver jumped over him. Thomas held onto the ball as Pickett tried to knock it out of his grasp, and they fell to the ground.

Thomas’ catch was the offensive highlight of LSU’s fully padded practice, an hour of which was open to the media. But once again — as often has been the case this preseason — the defense mostly won the 11-on-11 plays that were seen by reporters.

Here’s a full rundown of what we saw during LSU’s 11th preseason practice. The Tigers ran 18 plays in the 11-on-11 periods that took place during the open portion. The next two days are closed to the media.

Defense stands out

The 11-on-11 period started in the red zone with the starting offense playing against a defense mostly filled with backup linebackers and safeties. On the first play, sophomore defensive tackle Ahmad Breaux recorded a tackle for loss when Thomas took a counter handoff. After a false start on redshirt freshman right

Football, becoming complete tight end now in Green’s court ä See GREEN, page 4C

“Eat every day,” Green said Tuesday “I eat like five meals a day.” The fried chicken. The red beans and rice. The jambalaya. None of it has slowed down Green, the former high-profile recruit and two-sport star who’s emerged through the first 11 practices of preseason camp as one of Garrett Nussmeier’s favorite targets. The two have struck up a

Saints aiming to restore once-proud run defense

BY LUKE JOHNSON Staff writer

IRVINE, Calif.

— There is pride in the way Davon Godchaux plays, and that may be a key element to the Saints defense this year

At 330 pounds, the ninth-year pro is the heaviest player on the roster The offensive linemen who have had to face Godchaux are coming to terms with what “old man strength” means as he has tossed them aside to make plays. The veteran nose tackle has stood out for a specific reason during this training camp: He is on the field to play a central role in snuffing out the opposing team’s rushing attack, and that involves playing with pride.

“It’s just got to be something you really just do,” Godchaux said. “There’s a technique to it, but it’s more about pride in stopping the run.”

ä Jaguars at Saints. NOON SUNDAy,WAFB

The Saints used to take pride in their run defense, but that hasn’t been the case in recent years. They had a top-five run defense four straight years from 201821 but have been bottom 10 in each of the past three seasons. The run defense cratered last season, when New Orleans ranked 31st among 32 teams in stopping the run.

“Last year still doesn’t sit well with us,” linebacker Pete Werner said. “Any good defense, you’ve always got to stop the run. That has to be a given within any single year.” Something needed to change. To the Saints credit, plenty did. One of their first moves was to trade for Godchaux, giving them a physical presence in the middle of their defense that was lacking last season. Their big-ticket free agent acquisition was safety Justin Reid, who is known for his physicality In the draft, the Saints used two third-round picks and a fourth-round selection on a

Slice the numbers any way you like, they weren’t good: 4.9 yards per carry (31st), 2.01 yards per carry before contact (28th), 60 runs of 10-plus yards (23rd), 11.9% run stuff rate (30th) and +.08 Expected Points Added per run (30th).

6

White House lawn a UFC target

After Paramount deal, White says event will happen

BY DAN GELSTON AP sportswriter

Hours after Paramount and UFC announced a billion-dollar rights deal, Dana White said he had yet to hear from his friend, President Donald Trump, on his thoughts about the fight company’s new streaming home. That was fine with White The UFC CEO was set to travel to Washington on Aug. 28 to meet with Trump and his daughter, Ivanka, to catch up and discuss logistics on the proposed Fourth of July fight card next year at the White House.

Trump said last month he wanted to stage a UFC match on the White House grounds with upwards of 20,000 spectators to celebrate 250 years of American independence.

“It’s absolutely going to happen,” White told The Associated Press. “Think about that, the 250th birthday of the United States of America, the UFC will be on the White House south lawn live on CBS.”

The idea of cage fights at the White House would have seemed improbable when the Fertitta brothers purchased UFC for $2 million in 2001 and put White in charge of the fledging fight promotion.

White helped steer the company into a $4 billion sale in 2016 and broadcast rights deals with Fox and ESPN before landing owner TKO Group’s richest one yet a seven-year deal with Paramount starting in 2026 worth an average of $1.1 billion a year with all cards on its streaming platform Paramount+ and select numbered events also set to simulcast on CBS.

ESPN, Amazon and Netflix and other traditional sports broadcast players seemed more in play for UFC rights — White had previously hinted fights could air across different platforms but Paramount was a serious contender from the start of the negotiating window

The Paramount and UFC deal came just days after Skydance and Paramount officially closed their $8 billion merger kicking off the reign of a new entertainment giant after a contentious endeavor to get the transaction over the finish line White said he was impressed with the vision Skydance CEO David Ellison had for the the global MMA leader early in contract talks and how those plans should blossom now that Ellison is chairman and CEO of Paramount.

“When you talk about Paramount, you talk about David Ellison, they’re brilliant businessmen, very aggressive, risk takers,” White said. “They’re right up my alley These are the kind of guys that I like to be in business with.”

The $1.1 billion deal marks a notable jump from the roughly $550 million that ESPN paid each year for UFC coverage today

But UFC’s new home on Para-

mount will simplify offerings for fans — with all content set to be available on Paramount+ (which currently costs between $7.99 and $12.99 a month) rather than various pay-per-view fees.

Paramount also said it intends to explore UFC rights outside the U.S “as they become available in the future.”

UFC matchmakers were set to meet this week to shape what White said would be a loaded debut Paramount card. The UFC boss noted it was still too early to discuss a potential main event for the White House fight night.

“This is a 1-of-1 event,” White said.

There are still some moving parts to UFC broadcasts and other television programming it has its hands in as the company moves into the Paramount era.

White said there are still moving parts to the deal and that includes potentially finding new homes for “The Ultimate Fighter,” “Road To UFC,” and “Dana White’s Contender Series.” It’s not necessarily a given the traditional 10 p.m. start time for what were the pay-per-view events would stand, especially on nights cards will also air on CBS.

“We haven’t figured that out yet but we will,” White said.

And what about the sometimescontentious issue of fighter pay?

Some established fighters have clauses in their contracts that they earn more money the higher the buyrate on their cards.

Again, most of those issues are to-be-determined as UFC and Paramount settle in to the new deal — with $1.1 billion headed the fight company’s way

“It will affect fighter pay, big time,” White said “From deal-todeal, fighter pay has grown, too. Every time we win, everybody wins.”

Boxer Jake Paul wrote on social media the dying PPV model — which was overpriced for fights as UFC saw a decline in buys because of missing star power in many main events — should give the fighters an increased idea of their worth.

AND CHRIS

By

FILE

This photo combination shows a UFC logo outside an arena on April 24, 2021, in Jacksonville, Fla., and the Paramount logo during the Paramount Pictures presentation at CinemaCon on April 3 in Las Vegas.

“Every fighter in the UFC now has a clear picture of what the revenue is...no more PPV excuses,” Paul wrote. “Get your worth boys and girls.”

White also scoffed at the idea that the traditional PPV model is dead.

There are still UFC cards on pay-per-view the rest of the year through the end of the ESPN contract and White and Saudi Arabia have teamed to launch a new boxing venture that starts next year and could use a PPV home. White, though, is part of the promotional team for the Canelo Álvarez and Terence Crawford fight in September in Las Vegas that airs on Netflix.

“It’s definitely not run it’s course,” White said. “There were

guys out there who were interested in pay-per-view and there were guys out there that weren’t Wherever we ended up, that’s what we’re going to roll with.”

White said UFC archival footage “kills it” in repeat views and those classic bouts also needed a new home once the ESPN deal expires.

Just when it seems there’s little left for UFC to conquer, White says, there’s always more. Why stop at becoming the biggest fight game in the world? Why not rewrite the pecking order in popularity and riches and go for No. 1 in all sports?

“You have the NFL, the NBA, the UFC, and soccer globally,” White said. “We’re coming. We’re coming for all of them.”

Sprinter Richardson addresses arrest and apologizes

BY PAT GRAHAM AP sportswriter

Sha’Carri Richardson

Sprinter

addressed her recent domestic violence arrest in a video on social media and issued an apology to her boyfriend Christian Coleman. A former LSU sprinter, Richardson posted a video on her Instagram account Monday night in which she said she put herself in a “compromised situation.” She issued a written apology to Coleman on Tuesday morning.

“I love him & to him I can’t apologize enough,” the reigning 100-meter world champion wrote in all capital letters on Instagram, adding that her apology “should be just as loud” as her “actions.”

Richardson

Duplantis raises pole vault record for 13th time

Former LSU pole vault star Mondo Duplantis raised his pole vault world record to 6.29 meters at the Istvan Gyulai Memorial meet in Budapest on Tuesday

The Olympic and world champion added a centimeter at his second attempt to the previous record mark which he set in June at a Diamond League meet in front of home fans in Stockholm. It was the 13th pole vault world record for the 25-yearold Swede and the third this year It was another statement win in Budapest for Duplantis, who retained his world title in the Hungarian capital in 2023 by clearing 6.10.

At the World Athletics Continental Tour Gold meeting on Tuesday, Duplantis cleared 6.11 at his second attempt and then successfully targeted the world record also with his second try

LSU men’s golfer makes final 64 at U.S. Amateur SAN FRANCISCO LSU golfer Arni Sveinsson advanced to the matchplay portion of the 125th U.S. Amateur on Tuesday at Olympic Club.

Sveinsson, a sophomore for the Tigers this fall, shot even-par 140 in 36-hole qualifying with a 68 Monday on the Ocean course and a 72 Tuesday on the Lake course.

Four other LSU golfers were in the field of 312 trying to make it to the match-play round of 64. Qualifying was not expected to finish until Wednesday morning.

“We had a pretty good game plan going into it, and hit a lot of fairways, hit a lot of greens, stayed really disciplined with the tucked pins,” Sveinsson said. The round of 64 will be televised at 5 p.m. on Peacock.

Astros All-Star closer

Hader placed on 15-day IL

Houston Astros All-Star closer

Josh Hader was placed on the 15day disabled list Tuesday with a strained left shoulder

The move, retroactive to Monday, comes after the left-hander reported shoulder discomfort before Monday’s game against the Boston Red Sox.

Manager Joe Espada added that they don’t yet know the severity of the injury and should know more after additional testing.

Espada said he would not name a closer to fill in while Hader is out, but would use his relievers based on matchups.

Hader, who is in his second season in Houston, is 6-2 with a 2.05 ERA and is tied for third in the majors with 28 saves in 48 appearances this season.

Bills RB Cook resumes practice after ‘hold-in’ Buffalo Bills running back James Cook resumed practicing on Tuesday, ending his temporary “hold-in” as part of a contract standoff that began on Aug. 3. Cook took the field in uniform and participated throughout practice, including team drills, after missing four straight sessions last week — the last two in which the fourth-year player failed to even make an appearance on the sideline. Cook declined to speak to reporters afterward about his decision to return to practice while still in the midst of seeking to secure a contract extension on the final year of his rookie deal.

Coach Sean McDermott anticipated Cook’s return, who was the NFL’s co-leader with 16 touchdowns rushing last season.

Packers QB Love out after procedure on left thumb

“I was told Coleman did not want to participate any further in the investigation and declined to be a victim.”

The officer reviewed camera footage and observed Richardson reach out with her left arm and grab Coleman’s backpack and yank it away Richardson then appeared to get in Coleman’s way with Coleman trying to step around her Coleman was shoved into a wall.

Later in the report, it said Richardson appeared to throw an item at Coleman, with the TSA indicating it may have been headphones. The officer said in the report:

“To Christian I love you & I am so sorry,” she wrote. Richardson was arrested July 27 on a fourthdegree domestic violence offense for allegedly assaulting Coleman at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. She was booked into South Correctional Entity in Des Moines, Washington, for more than 18 hours. Her arrest was days before she ran the 100 meters at the U.S. championships in Eugene, Oregon. In the video, Richardson said she’s practicing “self-reflection” and refuses “to run away but face everything that comes to me head on.” According to the police report, an officer at the airport was notified by a Transportation Security Administration supervisor of a disturbance between Richardson and her boyfriend, Coleman, the 2019 world 100-meter champion.

A message was left with Coleman from The Associated Press. Richardson wrote that Coleman “came into my life & gave me more than a relationship but a greater understanding of unconditional love from what I’ve experienced in my past.”

She won the 100 at the 2023 world championships in Budapest and finished with the silver at the Paris Games last summer. She also helped the 4x100 relay to an Olympic gold.

She didn’t compete during the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 following a positive marijuana test at the U.S. Olympic trials.

The Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love will miss at least a week after having a procedure to repair a ligament issue in his left thumb, Packers said Tuesday Love was spotted with his thumb wrapped on the sideline during the Packers’ 30-10 preseason loss to the New York Jets on Saturday Love started the game and went 1 of 5 for 7 yards with neither of the two drives he led resulting in points.

The injury is to Love’s non-throwing hand and occurred, coach Matt LaFleur said, when he was sacked for a 3-yard loss by Jay Tufele on the quarterback’s final snap from scrimmage.

LaFleur said the recovery process is a quick one, with the expectation Love will be back at practice in some capacity next week.

PGATour’splayoffsnot like othersports

OWINGS MILLS,Md. Instead of outrage and grave concern that Rory McIlroy chose to sit out the first FedEx Cup playoff event without dropping asingle spot in the rankings —let it be areminder that golf is not like other sports. These are not the “playoffs.” That’sfor team sports.

Doug Ferguson

This is golf, which has never had adefining finish to its year and never will. The FedEx Cup attempted to create afinish line until the tour tried to promote it as so much more. What it did was create an incentive for the best players to compete after the majors were over.That part has worked beautifully,and it still does, with or without McIlroy Perhaps one reason McIlroy’sabsence got so much attention was no one had skipped apostseason event (barring injury) since Webb Simpson five years ago. Simpson pulled out of the BMW Championship at No. 3inthe FedEx Cup, saying he wanted to be fresh for the FedEx Cup finale at East Lake. McIlroy had said in June he has earned the right to do whatever he wants, and that includes skipping a$20 million tournament (for the third time this year), and sitting out the first round of what the PGA Tour calls its “playoffs.” He remains at No. 2.

NorthernIreland on

last weekendin Memphis,

But he certainlywasn’t the first to do that. Tiger Woodswas ano-show for the first playoff event in 2007, andhestill went on to win the FedEx Cup. Phil Mickelson skippedthe BMW Championship that year when it was the third of four postseasonevents. Sergio Garcia?Hemissed seven postseasonevents when he waseligible (and presumably healthy), one yeartaking timeoff in Switzerland and Spain because he wanted abreak McIlroy finishedup nine holesofpractice at

Caves Valley on Monday afternoon as some of the players who advanced to the second stage werestill on their way to the BMW Championship after a steamy week in Memphis, Tennessee. Given the heat, he’sprobably fresher than most. He first raised the questionlastyear when he was No. 3inthe FedEx Cup, finished next-to-last in Memphis and wondered what he was doing there. He only dropped to No. 5. It changed nothing. So it was no surprise McIlroy sat

Thunderheadlines opening night, ChristmasDay games

The Associated Press

By

NEW YORK The Oklahoma City Thunder felt slighted last season when it was left off the NBA’s Christmas schedule.

That won’tbeanissue this year

MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the NBA champion Thunder will be working at home for Christmas this season, playing host to Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs as part of the league’sannual Dec. 25 quintupleheader BetMGM Sportsbook has the Thunder favored by 9.5 points.

The other Christmas games,released by the NBA on Tuesday: Cleveland at New York (favored at -2.5), HoustonatLeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers (-1.5),No. 1pick Cooper Flaggand Dallas visiting Golden State (-4.5) and Minnesota playing at Denver(-4.5)

Some NBA Cup games are scheduled to be released Wednesday,and the full schedule —80ofthe 82 games for all teams —isto be released on Thursday The remaining two games for each club will be filled in during December based on how teamsfareinthe NBA Cup.

“They make the schedule. We play it,” Thunder coach Mark Daigneault saidlast season,whenasked about his club not being picked for the Dec. 25 lineup. “Our players, Iknow,would have liked to play on Christmas becausethat’ssuch astaple day in the NBA season. But we can’tcontrol that.” Well, they sort of did control their Christmas scheduling fate this season.

The NBA champions typically get invited to play on Christmas the following season;OklahomaCitybeat Indiana in aseven-game NBAFinals last season. The Eastern Conference championPacers areamong the Christmas snubs this year, after losing Tyrese Haliburton to an Achilles tear that will sideline him for the entirety of this season and seeing Myles Turner opt to sign with Milwaukee in free agency The Knicks will be playing their 58th Christmas

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By NICK IWANySHyN

Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexanderlistenstoremarks duringa ceremonyhonoring the NBAchampion on Aug. 7inHamilton,Ontario. Oklahoma City is settoplayon Christmas after beingleftoff the holiday schedule last year

STAFF FILE PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER Lakers forwardLeBron James reacts to aplay against the Pelicans at the Smoothie King Center on Nov. 16. James and the Lakers will playhost to the Rockets on Dec. 25.

game, extending their NBA record. The first Christmas game in league history was at Madison Square Garden in 1947. Boston, Philadelphia and Phoenix played on Christmas last season and didn’t make the Dec. 25 cut this season, replacedbyCleveland (whichwas the East’s No. 1seed), Houston (which landedKevinDurant in an offseason blockbusterfrom the Suns) and theThunder. Clevelandand theThunderare playing on Christmas forthe first time since 2018. The Rocketshave a Christmas gamefor the first timesince 2019. James, if he plays on the holiday, will be making his 20th Christmas appearance

in hisrecord 23rd NBA season. Only 12 NBAfranchises have 20 Christmas games, and James could soon have thatmany as a player

And it’ll be abig NBA holidayinTexas:All three of thestate’steams are playingonChristmas for thefirst time.

Openingnight

NBC’sreturn to the NBA broadcast worldofficially starts with opening night on Oct. 21, when the Thunder (favored by 6.5 points) will receive their championship rings before playing host to Durant and the Rockets in the first game of the season. That will be followed by Stephen Curry,Jimmy Butler and Golden State taking on James, Luka Doncic and theLakers (-3.5) in the second game of the NBC doubleheader. Those are the only two games on opening night

MLKDay Peacock and NBC will have four games on Jan. 19, which is Martin Luther King Jr.Day The matchups: Milwaukee at AtlantaonPeacock at noon, followed by three games on NBC:Oklahoma City at Cleveland at 1:30 p.m., Dallas at New York at 4p.m. and Boston at Detroit at 7p.m. Memphis, whichtypically plays on the holiday,isnot this season. TheGrizzlies will be returning from Europe, after facing Orlando on Jan. 15 in Berlinand Jan. 18 in London.

this one out Scottie Scheffler could have easily done thesame. The TPC Southwind is wherehelastmissed acut (in 2022, when the postseasonopener had 125-man field and a36-hole cut). The FedEx St.Jude Classic also gave him asponsor exemptionwhen he was 17, and he has never misseditas aPGA Tour member.His choice.

But playoffs?

Jim Moraand his infamous “Playoffs?” interview comes to mind this time of the year

TheFedExCup might be alot easier to understand —and appreciate —ifthe PGATour had just stuck to the right languagewhen thisseason-ending bonanza first was unveiled. It wasatEast Lakein 2006 during the Tour Championship—remember,that was the year Woodsand Mickelson both decidedto skipthe PGATour’sfinale —when former commissioner TimFinchem laid out the details of theFedEx Cup. He saidgolf was theonly major sport where the regular season was more compelling than thefinish(he apparentlydidn’t think much of tennis). And so Finchem introduced a concept referred to as a championship series of four tournaments. He used that phrase “championshipseries” —20timesinalengthy newsconference. The eight times he mentioned “playoffs”was in comparison to other sports and howthe championship series would be “our version of theplayoffsystem.”

And then somemarketing genius leaned on “playoffs,” the wordwas painted onto agrassy hill at Westchester Country Club, the term stuck and it still doesn’tmake sense.

That especially was the case when it began with 144 players, leadingJim Furyk to do the math.

“Infootball, there’s32 teamsinthe NFL, andif I’mcorrect, 12 teams go to the playoffs,” he said

in 2007. “This year,125 guys also keep theirtour card and 144 people are going to the Playoffs.So that’sroughly 110% of the league.” Golf is not like other sports.

Theconcept is fine. The PGATour’sversion of the playoffs is working because it provides three weeksofits best players competing foratrophy that is slowly gaining in stature. It’s not one of thefour majors. It’s probably still anotch below ThePlayers Championship.

ThePGA Tour has tweaked the format five times,seeking asolution that doesn’texist.

Themost recent format —“starting strokes” —was the mostcontroversial, withthe No. 1player startingat10-under parbefore the Tour Championship began. Not even Scheffler liked that. But it at least rewarded the players whoperformed thebest throughout the year

Now the 30 players who emerge from the BMW Championship thisweek will allstart from scratch at East Lake, and thelow score wins. The“seasonlong champion” could be someone whowins forthe first time all year How is the FedExCup trophy any differentfrom the oldTour Championship trophy?

Themoney is better.And unlikethe last Tour Championshipbefore theFedEx Cupbegan, at least everyone will show up.

BY DOUG FEINBERG Associated Press

NEWYORK Even with many of its top stars sidelined, the WNBA has still had strong ratings andattendance numbers this season. Injuries have kept Caitlin Clark, Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collierand former LSU star Angel Reese out, but that hasn’tdampened fan interest in theleague. ESPN games are up slightly over last season, and games on ABC are up 17%. Atten dance has also still been strong, thanks to the addition of the Golden StateValkyries this season, who have sold out all of their home games, averaging morethan 18,000 fans. Still, it has not all been rosy.The league hasreceivednegative attention for sex toysbeing thrown on the court at various arenas over atwo-week span. That has subsided over the past few days.

For the most part, even without their stars, those teamshavebeen able to play at ahigh level.

Minnesota has won all three games without Collier —the MVP frontrunner whoissidelined with aright ankle sprain, to remain in first place in the standings. Indiana has gone 6-2 over its past eight games without Clark, who has been out for nearly amonth with aright groin injury.She is progressing from the injury but still is not practicing.

Thesecond-year guard told Sue Bird on her podcast that she feels alevel of “responsibility” to play, knowing that so many people have been drawntothe leaguebecause of her “I think that’sdefinitely been hard. I’mgoing to go to every road gamenomatter what,whether I’mplaying or not. It’shard because obviously Idofeel this responsibility of being out there and playing,” Clark said. NewYork has been up and down without Stewart, who said she plans to be back by the end of the month from abone bruise in herright knee.

Honoring Bird

The Seattle Storm will unveil astatue of Sue Bird on Saturday before the team faces Phoenix on Sunday Seattle is the first WNBA franchise to dedicateastatue to aformer player.Next month, Bird will be inducted intothe NaismithBasketball Hall of Fame.

Player of theweek

A’ja Wilson of LasVegas wasthe AP player of the week after averaging 25.3 points, 13 rebounds and 3.7 assists to help the Aces win allthreeoftheir games last week.She had the first 30-point, 20-rebound game in league history in awin over Connecticut on Sunday.

Game of theweek

New York at Minnesota, Saturday.The Lynx beat the Liberty in NewYorklast Sunday andnow don’tplay again until the twoteams tip off in Minnesota. New York has back-toback games in Los Angeles on Monday and Las Vegas on Tuesday before heading to Minnesota.

Penn State primed for big season

Nittany Lions seek Big Ten title but Ohio St., Oregon close behind

BY ERIC OLSON Associated Press

The stage is set for Penn State, and now the question is whether the second-ranked Nittany Lions will capitalize

While defending national champion Ohio State, defending Big Ten champ Oregon and heavyweight Michigan are breaking in new quarterbacks, Penn State goes into the season with a threeyear starter in Drew Allar, a pair of 1,000-yard rushers and a top-10 defense with first-year coordinator Jim Knowles.

“I think when you look at all of our personnel, not just the players, but the staff and players, it’s the best combination that we’ve had in my 12 years here,” coach James Franklin said. “The depth, the experience, the talent is impressive.”

The Nittany Lions have won at least 10 games three straight years, and last season they made the College Football Playoff for the first time and beat overmatched opponents SMU and Boise State before a 27-24 loss to Notre Dame in the semifinal at the Orange Bowl. The knock against Franklin and the Lions is that they win the games they are supposed to but not the ones when the lights are the brightest.

“We were a drive away from playing for the national championship last year and 99% of the programs in the country would be jacked about that season and how it went, and I don’t know if that was necessarily the case here, right?” Franklin said.

Except for a Sept. 27 home game against No. 7 Oregon, the Nittany Lions probably won’t be tested un-

til the back end of their schedule. They’ll be trying for their first conference championship since 2016 and the automatic CFP bid that goes with it.

If not Penn State, who?

No. 3 Ohio State and No. 7 Oregon are poised to return to the playoff if their new quarterbacks keep the offenses on the rails.

Buckeyes coach Ryan Day is still deciding between Julian Sayin and Lincoln Kienholz. Ohio State is going for its first Big Ten title since 2020 along with a repeat national championship. With so many elite players spread across the field, both are possible.

Former UCLA five-star QB Dante Moore takes over for Dillon Gabriel at Oregon, which went 13-0 with a win over Penn State in the conference championship game to earn the CFP top seed before losing to Ohio State in the quarterfinals. Much is expected of Dakorien Moore, the top-rated receiver in the 2025 recruiting class. No. 14 Michigan landed the nation’s No. 1 recruit in quarterback Bryce Underwood. The Wolverines didn’t win the Big Ten last year, but they did beat Ohio State a fourth straight time. Underwood and a new group of receivers should improve the Big Ten’s worst passing game.

Bama names Simpson as starting QB

No. 8 Crimson Tide faces Florida State on road in season opener

By The Associated Press

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. — No. 8 Alabama has named Ty Simpson its starting quarterback heading into the team’s season opener at Florida State. Coach Kalen DeBoer told Simpson along with fellow quarterbacks Austin Mack and Keelon Russell before sharing the news with the team Monday DeBoer and Simpson later

GREEN

Continued from page 1C

nice connection and not just in the red zone.

In a one-on-one rep Monday, Green’s release off of the line of scrimmage forced Harold Perkins to stumble. There was no catching him after that, even for a speedy player such as Perkins. Green’s long strides propelled him about 2 yards ahead of Perkins, and Nussmeier didn’t have much trouble fitting a high-arcing pass into the large throwing window that his tight end opened.

Nussmeier then found Green open on a shallow out-breaking route on the first play of a team drill before firing him a pass in the flat after a play-action fake on the first rep of seven-on-seven work. Then came the red-zone targets. Nussmeier and Green connected on the first — a post route for a touchdown over the top of tight coverage — before misfiring on the second, a fade pattern against freshman cornerback DJ Pickett.

“He’s a mismatch,” LSU defensive coordinator Blake Baker said of Green, “and I think coach (Joe) Sloan and that offensive staff does a really really nice job of trying to put him in advantageous situations.”

In camp, Green has lined up as a tight end and at wide receiver He’s taken reps from the slot and along the boundary In each spot, he’ll usually have an advantage. The cornerbacks and safeties are too small. The linebackers are too slow Now LSU needs to help Green take advantage of those mismatches. On Monday wide receivers coach Cortez Hankton spent time teach-

spoke with Yea Alabama, a membership site that provides funding to the school’s student-athletes.

ties to leave and I didn’t because I want to be here, and I want to be with my guys.

Team on the rise

There’s chatter about No. 12 Illinois being a CFP contender It’s not crazy talk. The Illini bring back QB Luke Altmyer and 15 other starters from their 10-win team, and the schedule is manageable. The Illini last season knocked off a program record-tying four Top 25 opponents, and their six Big Ten wins were their most since 2007.

And the rest No 20 Indiana was the nation’s surprise team last season. Can Curt Cignetti keep it going? Cal transfer Fernando Mendoza, who threw for over 3,000 yards, is the

new QB. Iowa’s hopes ride the arm of Mark Gronowski, who put up monster numbers at South Dakota State and could have just as easily entered the NFL draft. Minnesota needs to get its offense going. Four of the Gophers’ five losses a year ago were one-score games. Rutgers went to the portal to improve a defense that tied for second-most touchdowns allowed in the Big Ten.

Jayden Maiava enters his first full season as starting QB for Southern California, whose five one-score losses tied for the most in the FBS. Washington’s defense will be coordinated by Ryan Walters, an ace DC at Illinois before a failed run as Purdue’s head coach. Michigan State needs more from QB Aidan Chiles, who has yet to find his rhythm Matt Rhule’s teams at Temple and Baylor made big jumps in Year 3. The same should happen at Nebraska with QB Dylan Raiola back and a manageable schedule.

UCLA can build on a strong finish with Tennessee transfer QB Nico Iamaleava. Wisconsin, in its first eight games, faces three top-10 opponents and another in the top 15. SMU transfer QB Preston Stone is next in line to spark a Northwestern offense that has struggled for going on seven years. Freshman QB Malik Washington is a bright spot

“They went through the X’s and O’s of why I would be the starter and said they were really proud of the QB room for how tight-knit we were,” Simpson said. Simpson, a fourth-year junior from Martin, Tennessee, spent the past three years waiting for his shot.

He backed up Bryce Young in 2022 and then Jalen Milroe the past two seasons

“My journey is like no other,” Simpson said. “And I think it meant a lot to the guys as well, knowing that I’ve had opportuni-

“Not only is it hard, sitting and waiting in this new era of college football, but you are sitting and waiting at the best, most competitive college football program in the nation.

“So I’m very excited for the opportunity I’ve been given.” Simpson has completed 29 of 50 passes for 381 yards, with no touchdowns and no interceptions in 16 games.

Simpson’s first career start will come Aug. 30 in Tallahassee, Florida, against the Seminoles, who are trying to regroup after losing 11 of their past 13 games.

LSU tight end Trey’Dez Green prepares to perform a blocking drill during spring practice on March 22 at the Tigers’ practice facility

ing the sophomore how to release off the line of scrimmage and how to separate from defenders at the top of his routes. Green said on Tuesday that he received special instructions from Alex Atkins, a former offensive lineman who’s now the LSU tight ends coach and run-game coordinator Atkins, Green said, is helping him put his hands in the right places when he blocks.

“You can’t be an in-line blocker at that position unless you’re willing,” head coach Brian Kelly said, “and I’ve had a lot of really good in-line tight ends that weren’t willing.

“He wants to get in there and mix it up.”

Green is 6-foot-7, which means he won’t have trouble coming down with contested catches, but he may struggle with bending low enough to gain the leverage he needs for

certain blocks.

“The game is played from low to high,” Kelly said, “so we’ve got to get him in great leverage positions. Most of it is not playing too high, and that’s not an easy feat in his position in terms of his size.”

Green said he’s working on it, and LSU can afford to give him time to learn Mason Taylor may be off to the NFL, but Oklahoma transfer tight end Bauer Sharp is a large part of the offense, and he’s shown in preseason camp both a willingness and ability to tackle the dirty work. Green has the willingness. As for the ability, that’ll come from the weight he’s gained and the extra time he’s spent developing into the complete tight end LSU needs him to become.

“I’m all in on football right now,” Green said. “That’s my focus.”

THOMAS

Continued from page 1C

tackle Weston Davis, Thomas caught the roughly 22-yard touchdown from Garrett Nussmeier

Otherwise, the LSU offense struggled to move the ball.

After the touchdown, the second-team offense came onto the field against the apparent starting defense. The ball was placed at the 1-yard line after a pass interference call on sophomore cornerback PJ Woodland in the end zone on first down.

On the next play, linebacker Harold Perkins blew up an inside handoff to running back Kaleb Jackson for a tackle for loss. The backups did not score on the next three plays, either Their last play in the series was a direct snap that bounced off Jackson and was returned for a touchdown by senior cornerback Mansoor Delane. No longer in the red zone, the starting offense retook the field at its own 1-yard line, once again against the apparent secondteam defense. Breaux made another tackle, and Nussmeier completed a short throw to Nic Anderson for 7 yards. Nussmeier’s last pass of the day fell incomplete as he rolled out to his right. Nussmeier looked for redshirt junior receiver Aaron Anderson along the sideline, but junior cornerback Ashton Stamps had tight coverage.

Aaron Anderson continues to work his way back onto the field after missing the beginning of camp with inflammation in his left knee. He has compression

sleeves on both legs, but he is doing more.

The second-team offense had one more chance against the starting defense.

Other than a completion from quarterback Michael Van Buren to tight end Donovan Green for a first down, it did not move the ball much during six plays. Wild Tiger?

With the ball at the 1-yard line during the red-zone periods, Van Buren motioned out of the backfield.

Sophomore Ju’Juan Johnson took the snap. Johnson, who has played quarterback and running back in the preseason, was tackled short of the goal line. After an incompletion, Van Buren lined up on the outside with Johnson and Jackson in the backfield. LSU called the direct snap to Jackson, and the ball bounced off his hands, allowing Delane to return it for a defensive touchdown.

LSU did not show the wildcat look again, but it has experimented with it multiple times during preseason practice. On Tuesday, the wildcat plays did not have any success.

Other tidbits

Sophomore cornerback Ja’Keem Jackson, a Florida transfer did not practice. Instead, he worked off to the side with athletic trainers or rode a stationary bike. Jackson left Monday’s practice early after appearing to suffer an injury When LSU practiced punts, Kentucky transfer Barion Brown, Aaron Anderson and Thomas were catching them. That’s a lot of speed in the return game.

Shough finishingimportant work at QB

BY MATTHEW PARAS Staff writer

IRVINE, Calif.

Increasingly in theNew OrleansSaints quarterback competition, the battle seems to be centered aroundthe adageof, “It’snot about how you start but how you finish.”

Technically, Spencer Rattler again started with the first team when the Saints reconvened for practice Tuesday after an off day But it was Tyler Shough who ultimately got more reps

with thefirst-team offense, freshoff hispreseasondebut in Sunday’sloss to the Chargers. Duringthat outing, Shough got 30 snaps to Rattler’s29, butthe rookie’s reps came entirely with the backups. On Tuesday,Rattler ran withthe starters during the Saints’scripted team drills —meaning theoffense knows what plays to runand what conceptstoworkon ahead of time. But in New Orleans’ “call-it” period, when coach Kellen Moore dials up plays in theflow of the momenttosimulate areal game,the order flippedwith Shough leading the first-

team offense against the second-team defense and Rattler leading the secondteam offense against the starting defense. Between them, Shough againlooked like thebetter quarterback.That’sbeen the trendoflate as the rookie appears to be hitting his stride. In thefirst of two “call-it” drills, Shough ledthe offense on a12-play drive of about 60 yards that saw him spreading the ball around to avariety of targets. His best throwcameon theseventh play of the drive when the Saints faced about afourth and8.Standing comfortably in the pocket

withexcellent protection from theoffensive line, Shough steppedupand hit Rashid Shaheed in stride forthe first down. Shough’sability to lead drives that result in points might be what is starting to separatehim from Rattler Moore said there were “no wow” momentsfromRattler’s performanceagainst the Chargers, and that’sa good description of how his gamehas been lately.He threw for less than 5yards per attempt against the Chargers. During Tuesday’s practice, he often settled forcheck-downs andsafe throws.

That’snot necessarily a bad thing, but unfortunately forRattler,he’snot leading the Saints on scoring drives. During Tuesday’ssession, Rattlerled awhopping 16play drive that inched down the field. Starting at the offense’sown 20, Rattler dinked-and-dunked his way to getNew Orleansinthe red zone by completing 7of10 passes during that stretch. But like in Sunday’sgame, when the Saints got into favorable field position several times,Rattler didn’tfinish. He tried to hit Dante Pettis on aslant that bounced off the wide receiver’shands and was intercepted by safety

Julian Blackmon Maybe the play wasn’t entirely Rattler’sfault his pass looked more than catchable —but the play was reminiscent of the strip-sackthatresulted in afumble against the Chargers. The turnover ruined a promising drive. Rattler’sconfidence has been his definingtrait throughout camp,but his performances as of late seem to indicate that Rattler might be rattled. Here’sa look at the stats from Tuesday’ssession: Rattler: 8of16with an INT Shough: 10 of 14 Jake Haener: 2of3

ADAM HUNGER

Giants WR Nabers sits outjoint practice at Jets

BY STEPHEN WHYNO AP sportswriter

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. Malik

Nabers did not participate in the New York Giants’ first of two joint practices against the Jets on Tuesday,and coach Brian Daboll wasnot forthcomingabout details surrounding thetop wide receiver’sstatus.

Nabers has been dealing with atoe injury that caused him to missspring workouts, though Daboll at the time called it “nothing serious.”

The 22-year-old continues to manage it in training camp, sitting out the end of 11-on-11 drills at practice last week, not taking part in an ensuing pregame walkthrough practiceand not playing in the exhibition opener at Buffalo last weekend.

Daboll has been tightlipped about injuries since camp began last month, and that continued with questions about whether Nabers wasout because of thetoe ailment and if he was concerned.

“I’m not going to get into injuries,” Daboll said. “He’s rehabbing, and he’sdoing everything he can do to get back.”

The Giants start the season in less than fourweeks

SAINTS

Continued from page1C

defensivetackle(Vernon Broughton), asafety (Jonas Sanker) and alinebacker (DannyStutsman) —with the latter two being known as exceptional run defenders. New Orleans spentresources on the spineofits defense, andthat didn’t cometogetherbychance.

“(General manager Mickey Loomis, head coach Kellen Moore) and our personnel team have done agreat joboftrying to armuswith as many players that kindof fit theway we want to play,” defensive coordinator Brandon Staley said. Staley is one of those changes, too.

The new defensive coordinatorbrought a3-4 base defense with him to New Orleans, and whilethe Saints will spend mostof their time in sub personnel packages with fiveormore defensive backs on the field, his scheme still will present different challenges to offenses than previous iterations of the Saints defense. The new-look defense will force offenses to account for more players at the line

at Nabers’ good friend and former LSU teammate Jayden Danielsand the Washington Commanders. Starting quarterback Russell Wilson downplayed not having Nabers on thefield.

“Malikand Ihave gottena lot of time together,”Wilson said. “I trust his work ethic, his ability to get open. Obviously,I’ve spent alot of time with him throwing afootball. When he is out there, when he has been, we’vebeen lights-outoneverythingthatwe’ve done. I thinkhe’sbeen special for us.”

Wilson praisedfellowreceiversDarius Slayton and Wan’Dale Robinson and singled out Zach Pascal and rookieBeaux Collins for making plays in Nabers’ absence. But there’slittle arguingthat New York’soffense loses alot if Nabers is unavailable when the gamesstart to matter

“Everybody’skind of contributing,” Wilson said.

“That’s what we need.We wanttofacilitate theball to the right guyatthe right time, and we want to be able to do that and obviously Malik’sakey part to that.” Cornerbacks Dru Phillips and TreHawkins also didnot practice against the Jets, alongwith rookie running back Cam Skattebo,

of scrimmage. In base looks, thatmeans three defensive linemen and two players lined up at each edge of the line. In sub packages, thesame principle will apply,just with differentpersonnel. The aimistooccupy the front so thesecond- and third-level defenders are free to make plays.

“The way we coachinthe run game is (the defensive linemen)are taking care of it so that the guys behind the ball can just go findthe ball and play itinstinctively and freely,” Staley said If the goal of modern NFL offenses is to manipulate space totheir advantage, this defense is designedto snuff it out.

“The difference is there’s less double teams for the interior guys, andthe edge players can playonthe edge,” defensive edge coach Jay Rodgers said. “Sowe’re actually,schematically, a little biggerupfrontthan maybe some of the years prior

“Theenemy of run defense is space. We wanttotake all theair out ofthe running back’srun lanes and then finish onthe ballcarrier.” Godchaux is aspaceeater andthroughout his career

wideouts Jalin Hyatt and Da’Quan Felton andguard Evan Neal. Phillips was injuredinthe Bills game, while Dabolldid notwant to share details about Hyatt not being out there.

Left tackleAndrew Thomas, who remains on thephysically unable to perform list as he works back from foot surgery,did not make the trip,according to Daboll, who saidthe 26-year-old offensive lineman is rehabbing and“gettingbetter every day.”

After the Giants’offense gotoff to arough start against theJets’defense on Tuesday,veteran QB JameisWinstongathered teammates together for an animated address.

He may wind up being thirdonthe depthchart behind Wilson androokie firstround pick Jaxson Dart, but Winston has not been shy to let his voice be heard this summer

Wilsonsaidhedeferred to Winston todeliver themessage that time.

“He’sgot those great motivationalspeeches,” Wilsonsaid. “Jameis andI,we both(have) alot of experience, alot of understanding of what we want to do,how we wanttomotivate, how do we want to lead. Ithink that’simportant.”

he has played that role well.

Staleyhas been on theopposing sideline from Godchaux several times during his coachingcareer,and that’s part of what informed the trade this offseason.

“He’sone of the top interior playersinthe game, and Istill believe that’strue,” Staley said.

“And the other thing that you’re getting with him when you’re startinga new programisthathe’salso bringing culture to your team experience.”

That last point may be im-

Groininjurykeeping Saints defensivebackTayloroff field

BY LUKEJOHNSON and MATTHEW PARAS Staff writers

IRVINE, Calif. —Alontae Taylor missed the New Orleans Saintspreseason opener against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday,and he did not participateinTuesday’spractice.

Now we know why:

Coach Kellen Moore said Taylor suffered agroin injury late last week in practice and he is expected to be out “a while”—though Moore did not indicatewhether that meant Taylorwas in risk of missing any regular-season time.

“Something came up and he had to go into recovery mode,” Moore said.

Taylorisexpected to play apivotal roleinthis Saints defense under first-year defensive coordinator Brandon Staley.Inthe base defense, Taylor is the starting outside corner.When the Saints shift to sub personnel, Taylor fills the star position, in which Taylor would be used in avariety of ways Entering acontract year Taylor has been entrenched in astartingrole for the Saints most of the last three seasons

Penningupdate

Trevor Penning appears to have avoided aserious injury.

Penning will missa few weekswith afootinjury he suffered in Sunday’spreseasonloss to the Chargers, according to areport from The NFL Network. But that’s relatively good news for Penning andthe Saints, considering he was carted off during the game.

Penning figures to be an important piece tothe offensive line this season.

The team’snew coaching staffswitchedthe former first-rounder from tackle to

portant for ateam coming off abad season defending the run, because Godchaux knows it’s going to take more

guard, aposition change that hasappeared to suit Penning’sstrengths better.The 26-year-old is also entering the final year of his rookie contract.

Clappout foryear

TheSaints placed Will Clapp on injured reserve Tuesday afternoon,officially ending his 2025 season.According to an NFL Network report, the former BrotherMartin and LSU offensive lineman suffereda Lisfranc injury on the opening series of the team’sfirst preseason game.

Clapp was aseventh-round pick of the Saints backin 2018. He spent his first four professional seasons with the Saints before stints with the Chargers and Buffalo Bills.

He signed back in New Orleans this offseason to provide depth along the interior of the offensive line. He has been the team’s secondstring centerthroughout training camp,and he started the preseason game while the Saints held out usual starter Erik McCoy

His role maynow go to undraftedrookie Torricelli Simpkins, who recently started working at center during training campafter spending most of his time at guard. Simpkins played97% of the team’sof-

than him to get the Saints back where they used to be.

Prideneedstobea defense-wide mentality

fensive snaps Sunday against the Chargers. Saints sign three New Orleans signed three players after arecent tryout in receiver Roderick Daniels, tight end Seth Green and defensive tackle JaydenPeevy.To make room for the additions, the Saints waived tight end Mason Pline andreceiver Chris Tyree,both with injury designations. Danielshad participated on atryout basis with the Saints earlier this summer.The formerSMU receiver recorded 18 touchdowns in his college career —12asareceiver, four as arunner and two as apunt returner Green was withthe Saints earlier in training camp but was waived afterthe Saints claimed Pline off waivers from theSan Francisco 49ers. Pline suffered an undisclosed injury during the preseason opener and needed help from the training staff to leave the field. Peevy has appeared in six NFL games the last three seasonswiththe Tennessee Titans and Carolina Panthers, recording 1.5 sacks anda forced fumble in hiscareer.Healso spent time with the Houston Texans practice squad last season.

“Everybody’sgot to gel together,” Godchauxsaid, “because if one person is weak, we’re all weak.”

LIVING

Lauren Cheramie BONVIVANT

Newfood on

Trythe

tiramisu,

,5050 Government St., Baton Rouge. Julia Child birthdaycelebration: Thursday-Saturday at Eliza Restaurant &Bar,7970 Jefferson Highway,Baton Rouge Eliza’ssixth annual Julia Child celebration is here, complete with athree-course menu inspired by the chef’s French classics, available for lunch and dinner.The menu includes quiche aux épinards, boeuf bourguignon and mousse au chocolat.Tickets are $50 per person, with optional wine pairings for an additional$30.

PROVIDED PHOTO

Eliza Restaurant &Bar’ssixth annual Julia Childbirthday celebration includes quiche aux épinards, boeuf bourguignon and mousseauchocolat

In theknow

There are new specials at ZeeZee’s,2943 Perkins Road Baton Rouge. Enjoy $5 burgers Monday; beef, chicken and steak tacos Tuesday; steak and pasta night Wednesday; one martini, truffle fries and aside salad for $20 Thursday; martinis for 50 cents with the purchase of alunch entree Friday; and brunch Saturday and Sunday with $12 all-you-caneat pancakes.

Sip and Sear:through Sept. 1 at Sullivan’sSteakhouse, 5252 Corporate Blvd., Baton Rouge Sullivan’siscelebrating National Filet Mignon Day (Wednesday) all month long. Now through Sept. 1, enjoy an 8-ounce filet mignon paired with aglass of wine for $59, available exclusively at the bar. Eat the Competition:6 p.m. to 9p.m. Sunday,Aug. 24, at Ruffino’s, 18811 Highland Road, Baton Rouge The restaurant’sannual Eat the Competition fundraiser dinner will featureafivecourse meal with curated wine pairings. GordyRushand Charles Hanagriff will be there to talk LSU football.Tickets are $200 per person, available for purchase at shopruffinos. com/products/eat-the-competition-2025.

Mark your calendar

Storybook Soirée:7 p.m. to 10p.m. Friday,Oct. 3, at Knock Knock Children’sMuseum, 1900 Dalrymple Drive, Baton Rouge Early bird tickets are on sale for Storybook Soirée to raise money for the museum’sprograms and initiatives, including enhancing the 18 learningzones and backyard. The theme is

with Bacon &Fig

BY LAUREN CHERAMIE Staff writer

What does it taketoget

30 chefs out of their kitchens on aFriday night?

An evening with theBaton Rouge Epicurean Society,apparently

For the 18th annual Fête Rouge tastingand competition, more than 30 restaurants and 250wineswill be featured Aug. 22 at L’Auberge Casino andHotel in BatonRouge

The culinary celebration is one of four eventsthat the Epicurean Society hosts throughout the year to supportchildhood health, nutrition andeducation programs.

“Thisisreally away for thechefs to shine, to come outfrom behind thestove,” said president Yvette Bonanno. “They work on their menus everysingle day in and day out. This (Fête Rouge) kind of stretches their wings alittle bit.”

The event also honorsthe Grace

“Mama” Marino Lifetime Achievement Award recipients, Bob and Cheryl Kirchoff of the Superior Restaurant Group. Bonanno says the Epicurean Societycelebrates theaward winnersyear-round, but theyespecially did so on June 19,with afive-course wine dinner

thatwas prepared by manyofthe chefs who areparticipating in Fête Rouge.

Guests at theevent will be able to samplebites from some of Baton Rouge’stop chefs and taste wines from around the world. Last year, some of thedishes included alligatorravioli from Bultra Restaurant Group, praline shrimp with candied pork belly from Sullivan’s Steakhouse and cream cheese pra-

line king cake from Eloise Market &Cakery

While every restaurant participant doesn’thave to compete, thosechefs whodoare up forthe chance to winthe bronze, silver or gold medal as they create adish to fit in one of four categories: Louisiana flavor,meats, seafood and dessert.The gold medalwinnersare

Continued from page1D

on the side for some extra deliciousness.

—Joy Holden Louisiana Inspired coordinator

La. Crawfish Salad

n SoLou Lafayette, 1905 Kaliste Saloom Road, Suite 105, Lafayette

Executive chef and owner Peter Sclafani and his team opened SoLou in Baton Rougein2021. Then, in June 2024, SoLou opened in the former Grub Burger Bar space on Kaliste Saloom in Lafayette

Ihad been wanting to visit since it opened, and Ifinally made the twominute drive on arecent Sunday evening. The vibe is laid back with elevated Louisiana comfort food like savory crabmeat cheesecake, chicken and waffles with balsamic strawberries and cane butter,and yes, a Gulf shrimp corn dog with spicy mustard.

Iwas in the market for a salad, and the server recommended the Louisiana crawfish salad. It did not disappoint, with aton of Louisiana crawfish tails sitting atop afresh spring mix. The salad also had hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, corn and aCreole honey mustard dressing. The combination was savory and sweet and alittle spicy —asasouth Louisiana dish should be.

—Kristin Askelson managing editor,Lafayette

The Caroline’s Roll n Rock-n-Sake, 3043 Perkins Road, Baton Rouge

Caroline’sCookies

owner CarolineMerryman teamed up with Rock-nSake to create aroll of her own.And it’sgood The roll includes snow crab,avocado and crispy onionslayered and rolled in nori and sushi rice, then toppedwith dicedtuna, jalapeño and adrizzle of sesame-soy sauce.The dish is then toppedwith ahousemadestrawberry preserve sauce Together,the roll is sweet andsavory,and theonions provide anice crunch in themiddle of the bite of sushi. Iadmit that I’m awimp when it comes to spice, andIusually exile any signofjalapeños from adish, but Idecided to go all in on this one. I’m glad Idid. The smokiness ofthe jalapeños is anice contrast to the sweet strawberry preserves. The Caroline’sRoll is available until theend of August onTuesdays at all Rock-n-Sakelocations.

—Lauren Cheramie, features coordinator

TODAYINHISTORY

By The Associated Press

Today is Wednesday, Aug. 13, the 225th day of 2025. There are 140 days left in the year

Todayinhistory:

On Aug. 13, 1961, on what would become known as Barbed Wire Sunday, East Germany sealed the borderbetween Berlin’s eastern and westernsectors before building awall that would divide the city for the next 28 years

Also on this date: In 1792, French revolutionaries arrested and imprisoned King Louis XVI; he would be executed by guillotine the following January In 1952, Big Mama Thornton first recorded the song “Hound Dog,” four years before Elvis

Presley’sfamous version was released In 1969, New York City held aticker-tape parade for Apollo 11 astronauts Neil Armstrong,Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin and Michael Collins.

Today’sbirthdays: Former U.S.Surgeon General JoycelynElders is 92. Opera singer Kathleen Battle is 77. Highwire aerialist PhilippePetit is 76. Hockey Hall of Famer Bobby Clarkeis76. Golf Hall of Famer Betsy King is 70. Movie director Paul Greengrass is 70. Actor Danny Bonaduce is 66. TV weatherman Sam Champion is 64. Actor Dawnn Lewis is 64. Actor John Slattery is 63. Actor Debi Mazaris61. Figure skater Midori Ito is 56. Actor Sebastian Stan is 43.

Don’ttakesocialmedia dramabait

Dear Miss Manners: I’m the pastor of amedium-sized church (about 500 members),with five other ministers on staff, as well. This summer,while Iwas on vacation, achurch member harshly criticized the staff for not noticing she’d been gone for eight Sundays

wasrude and unfair

This young woman blasted us for this oversight in an extended rant on social media.

In our defense, we don’t takeroll, and the weeks she was gone coincided with vacations for manyother membersand church employees.

Since she had “unfriended” the entire staff, we only heard about this rant when acouple of church membersmentioned it and

sent us acopy of it. Several other members responded to her post,defending the staff and questioning thewisdom of this venue for criticism. No one else is upset,nor did it cause much of aripple in our communal life. My deacon chair encouraged me not to respond, and I have not.Ididn’t thinkitwas fair of her to blast us so publicly; I would have considered this woman afriend before this It bothers me that this criticism goes unchallenged, but this kind of immaturity is likely apparent to most readers.

Should Irespond? Icould certainly apologize for not noticing her absence, but I doubt Icould also tactfully say that Ithought her post

Gentle reader: Or you could respond in the form of a question to Miss Manners. Except that she would have to point out that doing so is merely anew form of rudeness —like the young woman’sonline post.

She is not accusing you of this; she takes your question as genuine. But she would certainly not recommendthat you respond to the original provocation.

Dear Miss Manners: Do people owe you the favor of letting you know that you are on speakerphone? It’s often difficult to tell from background sounds. If someone else is in the room but out of earshot, then speakerphone is probably OK.But if Iamtelling someone something meant foronly their ears, that’sa problem

In one instance, Istarted talking about asecret gift, not knowing that the recipient was in the room until the person I’dcalled told me that Iwas on speaker I’dhad no idea. Should Ijust ask each timeI’m on the phone?

Gentle reader: One should warn the other person on the phone that they are on speaker forthe same reason agood host should smooth the rug when she sees it has curled over and is likely to trip the next guest whopasses by: It is less workthan picking up the pieces later If the people you are calling do not know this, then yes —Miss Manners would get in the habit of asking.

Send questions to Miss Manners at herwebsite, www.missmanners.com.

Guestsenjoyfood and winetastings at last year’sannual Fête Rougeevent.

FÊTE

Continuedfrom page1D

then judged for the “Best in Show” award.

Last year,Needhi Patel with Tap65won second place in the seafood category for hertuna bhel. This time around, Patel andher husband, Rick, arelaunching anew concept after selling Tap65inAugust. Patel is competing in the seafood category again,and she’s working to bring a“solid dish” to thejudges’ panel.

“We’redefinitely gonna bring that Indian flair,” Rick Patel said of the dish.

Currently, there are 18 chefs in the competition.

Some of the other contestants includeJasmine Felton with Mansursonthe Boulevard, Jon Jackson and Philip Beard with LSU Dining, Savannah Casey with Country Club of Louisiana, JoeFrancis with Southern PearlOyster House, Patrick Trahan with Ruffino’sRestaurant and Jordan Ramirez with Chow Yum.

Last year,Ramirez won first in theseafood category and Best in Show for his seafood dumpling aguachile.

Rouge.

Bonanno noted that she’s excited aboutthe chefscompeting from LSUDining and the Country ClubofLouisiana, because most of the time those people are behind thescenes and unknown.

“I love that they get to show how they can be more than just astudentdining chef,” Bonanno saidofthe LSUDining teams.

She’salsolooking forward to the new Bubbles and Bites add-on event beforethe tasting, which is aseparate, $75 VIP experience from 6p.m. to 7p.m. thatfeatures French Champagnes, high-end sparkling winesand food fromSt.

Francisville Inn andZorba’s GreekBistro. Throughout the year,money raised fromthe Epicurean Society’seventsisdonated to organizations in the community,including Capital Area CASA, Knock Knock Children’sMuseum, Girls on the Run, Baton Rouge Food Bank, ProStart andthe Our Lady of theLakeChildren’s Hospital’sobesity program.

The society also supports farmers markets around the city,including BREADA’s RedStickSprouts program that teaches kids about local food and farms. This year,the Epicurean

Society launched the “Abby Hamilton Coin” in memory of the society’slate executive director.The coin is distributed to over 140 farmers markets, and children can buy $2 fruits and vegetables. In April, the society partneredwith Knock Knock Children’sMuseum to donate $2,000 to support the “Little Garden in theBig Backyard” at the museum. The program’smission is to encourage healthier lifestylesand teach children where their food comes from.

“All of our money stays in Baton Rouge, and Ithink that’sthe biggest thing,” Bonanno said. “If you don’t know how to get involved with feedingchildrenor providing healthy outlooks forour children in our community,the Epicurean Society is ano-brainer.”

Fête Rouge, 7p.m. to 10 p.m.Friday,Aug. 22, at L’Auberge Casino and Hotel, 777 L’Auberge Ave., Baton Rouge. Tickets are $125 per person, available for purchase at www.bresbr org/#Fete-Rouge.

Email Lauren Cheramie at lauren.cheramie@ theadvocate.com.

Boyfriendwants to move to pursue passion

Dear Harriette: My boyfriend is deeply passionate about international humanitarian work. It’sahuge part of who he is and,honestly, one of the reasons Iadmire and love him so much. Recently, he told me he’splanning to move abroad to work in aconflict zonefor an extended period. He sees it as an opportunity to make areal impact, and he feels called to be there. While Iadmire his courage and commitment, Ican’t help but feel overwhelmed with fear.I’m scared for his safety,ofcourse, but I’m also struggling with what this means for ourrelationship. Idon’tknow if I’m emotionally strong enough to live with the constant worry.Realistically, Idon’t think Ican just pack up my life and follow him into such an unpredictable situation. Ihave acareer and family ties here, in addition to alot of anxiety about living in an unstable region. He hasn’t asked me to come with him, at least not directly,but I can tell he’shoping I’ll be on board. Is it selfish to ask someone you love to choose you over their purpose? —His Adventure Dear His Adventure: You

Keepingthe dishwasher clean

Harriette Cole

SENSE AND SENSITIVITy

haven’tmentioned your ages, butIimagine thatyou bothare young andatthe beginning ofyour adult lives. This is thetime to explore andtodiscover what youwant for your life. While nothing is guaranteed, if you andyourboyfriend feel committed to each other,why not make aplan that gives himspace to pursue hisdreams while you do the same where you are? Rather than worrying about his every move, trust that he will do the best he can to besafe wherever he goes. Tell him that you do notfeel comfortable joining him, but youhope that the two of you canstay together even as hegoes off exploring Idon’trecommend asking himtochoose you overhis purpose. Give himspace to experience hispassion andsee what happens next. If there is achance forthe two of youtobuild alife together,you need to allow each other to fulfill yourindividualdreams as well as your shared ones Dear Harriette: Ihave a friend who is constantly asking me for favors. I drive and she doesn’t, so she asks me to take her

places or pick her up frequently.Idosowhenever Ican because Irealize how harditcan be to get around without wheels. On theflip side, when Ineed help, sheisalmostalways too busy. For example, we live near each other.Occasionally if I’m running latefrom work, Iwill ask her to let my dog out into thebackyard —not to walk him, just to let him relieve himself. Shewill say she doesn’thave time right now.IfI’m entertaining and she’scoming over,too, Imight askher to make her signaturedessert to add to the festivities. Nope. Her plateisfull, and she can’thelp me out. I’ve got athousand other examples, but basically shesays no almost every time Iask her to help me out.How do Iaddressthis without causing more conflict? —Off

Balance Dear Off Balance: Tell your friend that you have noticed that she always says no when you ask her for help and that it hurtsyour feelings.Next time she asks you to do something for her, be unavailable. See if she notices.

Send questions to askharriette@ harriettecole.com.

Dear Heloise: Ilive alone and only use my dishwasher acouple times aweek. In between washings, Isprinkle baking sodaonthe bottom of the dishwasher No more odors between washings! —Kaynella W.,inOmaha, Nebraska

Dear Annie: Thank you for your strong and thoughtful letter about keeping relationship details private.

Ihave noticed there seems to be akind of unspoken “girl code” that makes some women feel it’sperfectly acceptable to ask personal questions about someone’ssex life —asifthose boundaries don’tapply among friends. Ihave always found thoseconversations uncomfortable, and Ioften felt unsure how to gracefully shut them down without sounding rude or overly guarded. That’swhy Ireally appreciated your advice. Iloved your simple and elegant response: “I never kiss and tell.” It’sfirm without being defensive, and it communicates self-respect without inviting further questions. In the past, I’ve tried saying things like, “I don’tlike to talk about sexual stuff with anyone,and Iknow my boyfriend wouldn’tbe comfortable with it either,” which is honest, but often leads to awkward silences

BONVIVANT

Continued from page1D

or eye-rolls. Your phrasing is so much better; it keeps things light while clearly drawing the line. Thank you for giving me (andsomany others) thewordsto protect ourprivacy with confidence and grace —Grateful Dear Grateful: Your letter made me feel so good. Thank you for yourkindwords. Iamtruly honored. Iamthrilledtohear that the message resonated with you. The idea that we can protect our privacy while still being confident and kind is something Ibelieve in deeply.Ilove that you are printing it and sharing it with others. Ihope it helps more young women, especially those in college, feel empowered to set the boundaries that feel right forthem DearAnnie: My brother constantly leans on me for help —ridesacross town, venting sessions that last for hours, favors thatalwaysseem urgent. Recently,itseems like his asks are getting more and more frequent. Ialways say yes, even when I’m exhausted or overwhelmed, be-

cause Idon’twant to hurt his feelings or leave him hanging when he’sgoing through something.

Idon’twant to have to turn him down. Ilike being there for the people Icare about, especially family But the truthis, I’m starting to feel resentful. Iget immediately filled with dread when Ihear from him. Iknow something has to change, but Idon’tknow how to say“no” without damaging our relationship or making him feel rejected. Why is it so hard to set boundaries withpeople you care about? Andhow can I takebetter care of myself without feeling like I’m letting him down? —Tiredof Saying Yes Dear Tired: Youcannot pour from an empty cup, and from thesound of it, you are down to thelast drop. It is not unkind to say,“Ineed somespace torecharge.” Boundaries do not end good relationships; they protect them. If he values you, he will understand.

Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@ creators.com.

auction and more.

inspired by the“D’Aulaires’ Book of Greek Myths.”

Early access tickets are $80 per person, available at https://bit.ly/InfoSoiree, and include bitesfromlocal restaurants, an openbar,live DJ and dance floor,Olympic games, asilent and live

If you have an upcoming food event or akitchen question, emaillauren. cheramie@theadvocate. com. Cheers!

Hints from Heloise

Emergencypreparedness

Dear Heloise: Arecent hint about using candles when theelectricity is out was good, but candles can burn out and be dangerous if there are children or pets in the house. For long-term blackouts when disasters happen, another solution is to use your yard solar lightsand bring in at least one for your bedroom and one for your bathroom.Itcan be safely carried throughout thehouse and placed out-

side in the morning forrecharging as needed. —Judi K., in Omaha, Nebraska Judi, this is a great idea, but in addition to this, there are light bulbs that actually are battery-powered. Every timeyou turn on alight, you can charge up the battery.Ifthe electricity is off, you can still have light because of the recharged battery in the bulb. Haveatleast three flashlightsand set them on their ends so that thelightbounces off theceiling —Heloise Crispsheets

DearHeloise: Yearsago, my mother told me the thread count forcrisp percalesheets. Naturally, Ihaveforgottenabout it, andshe’s no longerwith us. Eventhough Ialways hang up my sheets(weath-

er-permitting), theyare notcrisp like theyusedto be.Could yourecommend athread count forcrisp sheets? —Marilyn B.,via email Marilyn, a400 thread count is usually recommended forpercale sheets. Youcan go higher on the thread count, but please remember that the higher the thread count, the less breathability your sheets will have. —Heloise Groceryshoppinglists

Dear Heloise: In response to Jan S., in Pennsylvania, regarding how she makes out her grocery shopping list, I have amagnetic dry erase board that Ikeep on the front of my refrigerator Whenever Iamrunning low on something, Ijust jot it on the board! —Helen B.,in New Hampshire

Sendahinttoheloise@ heloise.com.

LEo (July 23-Aug. 22) You have the intelligence and ingenuity to make your life better, but first, you must put aside your emotional baggage and get rid of what's weighing you down. Embrace positive change.

VIRGo (Aug. 23-sept. 22) An adjustment to how you handle your money and work responsibilities will reinforce the qualities that separate you from anyone trying to compete with you. Take the high road, and success will follow.

LIBRA (sept. 23-oct. 23) Set aside your differencesandlistentowhatothershaveto say.Lookatthebigpictureandrecognize what's in it for you, then address what's necessary for you to participate.

scoRPIo (oct. 24-nov. 22) Make your actions count. Refuse to get caught in a verbal battle when it's what you do that makes a difference. Follow your heart and pursue your dreams.

sAGIttARIus (nov. 23-Dec. 21) Look around you and consider the upgrades you want to make to your surroundings Set a budget and stick to it to avoid unwanted stress and debt. Be smart with your money and protect yourself against illness and injury.

cAPRIcoRn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) You may want to rethink your subscriptions, expenditures and investments. Consider your options. Address problems and offer alternativestoanyoneinfringingonyour kindness.

AQuARIus (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Yourfast-paced attitude and actions will lead to friction if they aren't in sync. Be aware of all

aspects of a situation. Be in control and make changes to protect yourself from anyone taking advantage of you.

PIscEs (Feb. 20-March 20) Takeamidweek break and do something that makes you happy. Personal improvements, spending time with someone you love or visiting a place that brings you peace or closure can be uplifting.

ARIEs (March 21-April 19) Emotional excess is apparent. Pay attention, demonstrate discipline in all that you do and look for subtle solutions to unusual situations. Know when to say no and move on.

tAuRus (April 20-May 20) Go about your business, finish what you start and avoid conversations that lead to ridicule or resentment. Redefining what you want to do next will point you in a positive direction.

GEMInI (May 21-June 20) Reach out to special-interest groups and networking institutions that can guide you on your journey Learn as you go and take on whatever excites you A positive attitude will lead to new opportunities.

cAncER (June 21-July 22) Take a closer look at situations that can influence your status, direction or relationships with associates. Keeping the peace is in your best interest. Choose to be creative, innovative and disciplined.

The horoscope, an entertainment feature, is not based on scientific fact. © 2025 by NEA, Inc., dist. By Andrews

McMeel Syndication

Sudoku

InstructIons: Sudoku is anumber-placing puzzle based on a9x9 grid with several given numbers. Theobject is to place the numbers 1to9 in the empty squares so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once. Thedifficulty level of theSudoku increases from Monday to Sunday.

Yesterday’s Puzzle Answer

Bridge

By PHILLIP ALDER

Dean Martin said,“When your opponent’ssittin’there holdin’ all the aces, there’s only onething to do: kick over the table.”

Ihave never seen that at abridge tournament —but perhaps it has happened. Itisgenerallyconsideredthattheopponentsare not on your team. Butmany of them, especially when on defense, will throw tricks in your direction. And there arealso dealswhere you can force the opponentstohelpyou Southisinfour hearts. How shouldhe plan the playafter Westleads the spade king? With the annoying mirrordistribution in theminors, declarer has four potentiallosers: one heart, twodiamonds and one club. It looks as though South must guess trumps. If so, what is the percentage play?

Apriori,itisabout 2percent better to play for the drop.However, given the known uneven spade split, theodds have changed, making afinesse through East the favorite.

Declarer, though, with reasonable minor-suitbreaks,doesnotneedtoguess atall.Heshouldwinwithdummy’sspade ace, ruff aspade in his hand, cash the club ace, play aclub to dummy’sking, ruffanother spade, lead adiamond to dummy’s ace, and ruff the last spade. Then South, who stillhas A-9-8 opposite K-J-10 in trumps,exitswithaclub or adiamond. Theopponentstake their three tricks, but at trick 11, they must helpdeclarer. Whatever is led, South ruffs lowinthe nexthandanddoesnothavetoguesswho holds the heartqueen. Perhaps East and West wouldwonder if they shouldhave upended the table near the end!

©2025 by NEA,Inc dist.

By Andrews McMeel Syndication

Each Wuzzle is awordriddlewhich creates adisguised word, phrase, name, place, saying, etc. For example: NOON GOOD =GOOD AFTERNOON

Previous answers:

word game

InstRuctIons: 1. Words must be of fourormore letters. 2. Words that acquire fourletters 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 wordsare not allowed toDAy’s WoRD HoRoLoGERs: huh-RAHL-uh-jers: People who make clocks or watches.

Average mark25words

Time limit 40 minutes

Can you find 37 or morewords in HOROLOGERS?

yEstERDAy’s WoRD —InFERRInG

infer infringe inner nine feign fern fine finer finger

fining fire firing fringe erring reign rein reining rerig rife ring ringer grief grin

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MARY’S STORY

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IMPORTANT GUIDELINES FOROUR WORKSHOPS:

Workshopsare open to FIRST-TIMEATTENDEES ONLYand aregearedtowards people whowant or need your legal estate plan in placequickly Pleasehaveyourpersonal calendarhandy at the workshop so youcan choose to startyourplan NOW! If married, both spouses mustattend a workshop to ensurethat alldecision-makers are involved in your family’scoordinated plan

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