The Acadiana Advocate 10-03-2025

Lafayetteareapredicted to add5,300 jobs by 2027

Economistsayslow

BY ADAM DAIGLE Acadiana business editor

The Lafayette area is expected to add more than 2,000 jobsineach of the next two yearsbut couldadd more if the price of oil and rubber gloves made in China go up.

The Louisiana Economic Forecast, an annual report published by economist Loren Scott, cites growth from fourofthe region’s top sixcompanies and predictsanadditional 2,500 jobs next year and another 2,800 in 2027to push the region’stotal to 192,400 total

Trumpsays

BY AAMER MADHANI and LISA MASCARO Associated Press

WASHINGTON— President Donald Trump has declared drug cartels to be unlawful combatants and says the United States is now in an “armed conflict” with them, according to aTrump administrationmemo obtained byThe Associated Press on Thursday,followingrecent U.S. strikes on boatsinthe Caribbean.

The memo appearstorepresent an extraordinaryassertion of presidential war powers, with Trump effectively declaring that trafficking of drugs into the United States amounts to armed conflictrequiring theuse of military

ä See TRUMP, page 7A

oilprices, rigcount

“What this area needs heavily are some higher prices in two particularareas, and one is in the priceofoil.”

LOREN SCOTT,economist

jobs, which would be an all-time high for theregion. Thestruggles of thelow rigcount in the Gulf of Mexico and the700 jobs lost so far at SafeSource Direct and its upcoming suspension of operations will bea drag on the economy,hesaid.

drag on economy

Those numbers do not include activity in Iberia Parish, whichwas removed from the Lafayette metropolitan statistical area but may be the “mostvigorously active”among the state’s27rural parishes, Scottsaid.

The projected jobgrowthisacontinued patternofgains since falling to about170,000 in 2021, data shows. It’s a“good growthrate,” he said, at 1.5%, which would help it surpass the 2014 mark of just under 190,000 thatcame during the height of thefracking boom

ä See JOBS, page 5A

Saints sign long-term leasedeal forDome

Statewinsseveral concessionsinagreement

BY ANTHONY McAULEY,TYLER BRIDGES and JEFF DUNCAN Staff writers

Gov.JeffLandry andGayle Benson have signeda new long-term lease that will keep theSaintsplaying at theCaesarsSuperdome for at least another decade, after lengthy negotiationsthatwerehung up over side real estate deals and the state’sshare in profits from food sales and other concessions.

Thedealwas formally announced Thursday during asigning ceremony on the field of the Superdome, where Benson and Landry gathered with Saints officials and civic leaders.

Bensonand Landry both praised the agreement, with Benson calling it “an example of ourcontinuedspecial partnership with this

BobGiles selected forCivic CupAward

BY ASHLEYWHITE Staff writer

Lafayettebusinessman Bob Giles, who owns GilesAutomotive,was named the93rdLafayette Civic Cup Award recipient. Giles said Thursday morning he was deeplyhonored to receive the recognition that has been bestowed upon philanthropists and civic servantsinthe Lafayette community since 1933.

“Sincefounding Giles Automotive in 1982, my commitment has extended beyond business success to makingameaningful impact locally,” he said, “whether through financially supporting education

initiatives, contributing my time andmoney to localcharities,providing bulletproofvests to area lawenforcementagenciesor, most importantly,inspiring others to give back.” The Lafayette Civic Cup, supported by the Community FoundationofAcadiana, wasfirstawarded in 1933 to Maurice Heymann, an entrepreneur,founderofthe Oil Center and founderofLafayette Mardi Gras. It recognizes an individualwho hasgiventothe communitybecause of theircommitment anddedication, not because it’stheir job. The public nominates possible honorees andthe winner is selected by past Lafayette Civic Cup Award recipients.

Giles exemplifies the Civic Cup spirit, said last year’s recipient, Dr William “Kip” Schumacher

Iowa ex-superintendent charged with gun offense

DES MOINES Iowa The superintendent of Iowa’s largest school district, who was detained last week by immigration agents, was charged Thursday in federal court with possessing firearms while in the U.S. illegally, prosecutors said.

Ian Roberts resigned this week as Des Moines’ superintendent of schools, just days after he was pulled over and fled from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents, who ultimately arrested him with the help of officers from the Iowa State Patrol. When he was arrested, federal agents found a handgun that was wrapped in a towel inside the Jeep Cherokee he was driving, according to court papers.

Officials said Roberts, who is originally from Guyana was taken into custody on a federal arrest warrant for the weapons charge and appeared by video before a federal magistrate judge. Roberts’ attorney said his client will plead not guilty Roberts, 54, is alleged to have been in possession of four firearms, according to court documents. Authorities said Roberts had been authorized to work in the U.S. between December 2018 and 2020 but has since “not had lawful employment authorization,” according to the complaint

Megachurch founder admits child sex abuse

The founder of a Texas megachurch who resigned last year after a woman in Oklahoma accused the pastor of sexually abusing her in the 1980s pleaded guilty Thursday to five counts of lewd and indecent acts with a child, authorities said.

Robert Preston Morris, 64, entered the pleas before a judge in Oklahoma’s Osage County as part of a plea agreement, according to the state attorney general’s office.

The alleged abuse began in 1982 when the victim was 12 and Morris was a traveling evangelist staying in Hominy Oklahoma, with her family, according to the statement by Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond. The abuse allegedly continued for four years. Morris, the senior pastor of Gateway Church in Southlake, Texas, until his resignation, was indicted by an Oklahoma grand jury last year Under the plea agreement, Morris received a 10-year suspended sentence with the first six months to be served in the Osage County Jail.

The victim, Cindy Clemishire, who is now 55, said in a statement that “justice has finally been served, and the man who manipulated, groomed and abused me as a 12-year-old innocent girl is finally going to be behind bars.”

Trump-Epstein statue is back up on D.C. Mall

The controversial statue of President Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands has been reinstalled on the National Mall almost a week after it was taken down by the National Park Service.

“Just like a toppled Confederate general forced back onto a public square, the Donald Trump Jeffrey Epstein statue has risen from the rubble to stand gloriously on the National Mall once again,” a rep for the Secret Handshake wrote in an email. “The ‘Why Can’t We Be Friends?’ (originally titled Best Friends Forever) statue is repaired and back up for a limited time on 3rd Street just north of the U.S. Capitol.” The statue was erected Thursday afternoon after the anonymous “satirical activist” group says it worked “nonstop on ways to get this up legally within the Parks Department’s process We are up there with their permission and knowledge. We will see if that matters,” the rep wrote.

$1M in coins found in shipwreck

BY KATE PAYNE Associated Press/Report

for America

Hidden beneath the turquoise waters off a stretch of Florida known as the “Treasure Coast,” a team of divers from a shipwreck salvage company have uncovered exactly that — a load of long-lost Spanish treasure they estimate is worth $1 million.

More than 1,000 silver and gold coins thought to be minted in the Spanish colonies of Bolivia, Mexico and Peru were uncovered this summer off Florida’s Atlantic coast, 1715 Fleet — Queens Jewels LLC announced this week.

It’s not the first time the site has yielded a trove of, well, treasure.

Centuries ago, a fleet of Spanish ships laden with gold, silver and jewels taken from the New World was sailing back to Spain when a hurricane wrecked the flotilla on July 31, 1715, spilling the treasures into the sea, according to the 1715 Fleet Society

Over the years, millions of dollars in gold coins from the 1715

Fleet have been found by salvagers and treasure hunters in a coastal area stretching from Melbourne to Fort Pierce. Dates and mint marks are still visible on some of the recently recovered coins, the salvage com-

pany said, a benefit for historians and collectors hoping to glean more from the lost treasure.

“This discovery is not only about the treasure itself, but the stories it tells,” Sal Guttuso, director of operations for the salvage compa-

Car ramming, stabbing attack at synagogue kills 2

BY BRIAN MELLEY, PAN PYLAS and IAN HODGSON Associated Press

MANCHESTER,England

An assailant drove a car into people outside a synagogue Thursday in northern England and then began stabbing them, killing two and seriously hurting at least three in what police called a terrorist attack on the holiest day of the Jewish year

Officers shot and killed the suspect at the synagogue in Manchester, police said, though authorities took some time to confirm he was dead because he was wearing a vest that made it appear as if he had explosives. Police later said he did not have a bomb.

The Metropolitan Police force in London, which leads the nation’s counterterrorism policing operations, declared the rampage a terrorist attack.

Authorities said the man believed responsible was a 35-year-old British citizen of Syrian descent named Jihad AlShamie, who entered the U.K. as a young child and became a citizen in 2006. An initial check of records showed he was not part of a U.K counterterror program that tries to identify people at risk for being radicalized.

Police also said three people were arrested on suspicion of acts of terrorism. They are two men in their 30s and a woman in her 60s.

Authorities were working to formally identify the dead and determine the motive for the attack.

At least three people were hospitalized in serious condition, officials said. One person sustained a stab wound while a second was struck by the car involved in the attack. A third person arrived at a hospital with an injury that may have been sustained as officers stopped the attacker

The assault took place as people gathered at an Orthodox synagogue in an outer neighborhood of Manchester on Yom Kippur, the day of atonement and the most solemn day in the Jewish calendar Police said the two people killed were Jewish.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer denounced the “vile” assailant who “attacked Jews because they are Jews.” He promised the Jewish community that he would do “everything in my power to guarantee you the security that you deserve, starting with a more visible police presence.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel grieved with the Jewish community in the U.K.

“Our hearts are with the families of the murdered, and we pray for the swift recovery of the wounded,” he said. “As I warned at the U.N.: Weakness in the face of terrorism only brings more terrorism. Only strength and unity can defeat it.”

Abrego Garcia’s bid for asylum denied

BY TRAVIS LOLLER Associated Press

NASHVILLE, Tenn. A U.S. immigration judge has denied a bid for asylum from Kilmar Abrego Garcia.

The judge in Baltimore on Wednesday rejected an application to reopen Abrego Garcia’s 2019 asylum case. Abrego Garcia has 30 days to appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals.

A story published in Thursday’s Acadiana Advocate should have said there was a backlog of more than 6,200 cases when Don Landry took over as district attorney in Lafayette. The Acadiana Advocate regrets the error

The Salvadoran national immigrated to the United States illegally as a teenager In 2019, he was arrested by immigration agents. He requested asylum but was not eligible because he had been in the U.S for more than a year. But the judge ruled he could not be deported to El Salvador, where he faced danger from a gang that targeted his family

He was mistakenly deported to El Salvador by President Donald Trump’s administration in March and was held in

a notorious prison. The administration returned him to the U.S. in June, only to charge him with human smuggling. Abrego Garcia faces criminal charges in Tennessee, based on a 2022 traffic stop. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is also seeking to deport him to a third country His attorneys have denounced the criminal charges and the deportation efforts, saying they are an attempt to punish him for standing up to the administration. If approved, asylum could provide Abrego Garcia with a green card and a path to citizenship. But if he loses, an immigration judge could remove his protection from being returned to his native country That could place him back in the infamous Terrorism Confinement Center It’s where, he alleges in a lawsuit, he suffered severe beatings, sleep deprivation and psychological torture. El Salvador’s president has denied those allegations.

ny said in a statement. “Each coin is a piece of history, a tangible link to the people who lived, worked, and sailed during the Golden Age of the Spanish Empire. Finding 1,000 of them in a single recovery is both rare and extraordinary.”

Guttuso’s team employs dive crews and a fleet of boats and uses underwater metal detection-devices, plus hand-fanning of sand or sand suction to comb the sea floor, according to a public notice for a federal permit application the company filed. Under Florida law, any “treasure trove” or other historic artifacts “abandoned” on state-owned lands or in state waters belong to the state, though excavators can be permitted to carry out “recovery services.” The law requires that roughly 20% of the recovered archaeological materials be retained by the state for research collections or public display

Guttuso said his team develops a detailed inventory of all the artifacts collected each season to be reviewed by the state.

FBI director touts city crime crackdown

BY CARSON SWICK Baltimore Sun (TNS)

BALTIMORE A three-month federal crime crackdown across America’s major cities led to more than 8,000 arrests and enough fentanyl to kill 50 million people being seized, FBI Director Kash Patel said Thursday during an interview with Baltimore Sun co-owner Armstrong Williams. Patel said “Operation Summer Heat,” the FBI’s nationwide initiative targeting violent crime from June 24 to Sept. 20, worked as President Donald Trump deployed the National Guard to Washington, D.C. — and later other cities — in a more visible fashion.

Reported crime in the nation’s capital dropped by 18% during the first 30 days of that deployment, according to data analyzed by The Sun. Patel suggested the public-facing nature of National Guard troops in D.C. allowed FBI agents to break up crime behind the scenes. The director said Guardsmen were never intended to be law enforce-

ment officers, but needed to “set a stable perimeter” for agents to pursue organized crime and drug offenders.

The director credited collaboration with local law enforcement — and his decision to relocate more agents from D.C. to cities around the country — with helping to record 8,629 arrests, as well as seize 2,281 firearms and about 928 pounds of fentanyl nationally during Operation Summer Heat. Data from the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, or CID, also showed that agents seized 98,258 pounds and convicted 1,475 violent offenders during the mission. CID data showed the FBI’s Baltimore field office — which covers all of Maryland and Delaware made 224 “violent crime arrests” from June 24 to Sept. 20, ranking 10th across all 56 FBI field offices nationally The top nine were New York (471), Los Angeles (441), Boston (404), Nashville (394), Jackson (369), Cincinnati (300), New Orleans (254), Miami (239) and Mobile (231).

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Trumpthreatens mass firingsofworkers

BY LISA MASCARO, JOSH BOAK and SEUNG MIN KIM Associated Press

WASHINGTON President Donald Trump has seized on the government shutdown as an opportunity to reshape thefederal workforce and punish detractors, meeting with budget director Russ Vought on Thursday to talk through“temporaryorpermanent”spending cuts that could set up alose-lose dynamic for Democratic lawmakers.

Trump announced the meeting on social media Thursday morning, saying he and Vought would determine “which of the many Democrat Agencies” would be cut —continuing their efforts to slash federal spending by threatening mass firings of workers and suggesting “irreversible” cuts to Democratic priorities.

“I can’tbelieve the Radical Left Democrats gave me this unprecedented opportunity,” Trump wrote on his social media account. “They are not stupid people, so maybe this is their way of wanting to, quietly and quickly, MAKE AMERICA GREATAGAIN!”

Trump has been very direct about his intentions in saying thathebelieves the

Democrats would get the blame if he choosestofire people orcut spendingas part of the shutdown.

“There could befirings andthat’stheir fault,”the president said in an interview with OneAmerica News set to air Thursday.“I mean, we could cutprojects that they wanted, favorite projects,and they’dbepermanently cut.”

TheTruth Socialpostwas notable in its explicit embraceofProject 2025, acontroversial policy blueprint drafted by the Heritage Foundation that Trump distanced himself from during his reelection campaign.

Theeffort aimed to reshape thefederal government around right-wingpolicies, and Democratsrepeatedly pointed to its goals to warn of the consequences of asecond Trumpadministration.

Voughton Wednesdayoffered an opening salvo of the pressure he hoped to put on Democrats.He announcedhewas withholding $18 billion for the Hudson River rail tunnel andSecond Avenue subway linein New York City that have been championed by both Democratic leaders, Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic leader Hakeem Jef-

the fiscal year,causing that money to lapse.

All of this means that Democratic spending priorities might be in jeopardy regardless of whether they wantto keep the government open or partially closed.

Aheadofthe endofthe fiscal year in September, Vought usedthe pocket rescission to block the spending of $4.9 billioninforeign aid.

offs starting in the next day or two. It’s an extension of the Department of Government Efficiencyworkunder Elon Musk that slashed through the federal governmentatthe start of the year

“These areall things that theTrump administration has been doing since January20th,”Jeffriessaid. “The cruelty is the point.”

fries, in their home state.

“Trump’s so-called‘maximumpain’plan isn’t hurting Democrats— it’s hurting American families,” Schumer said in astatement Thursday. “He’ssnatching paychecks,threatening jobs, and deliberately inflicting suffering on working people just to score petty political points.”

Meanwhile, theWhite House is preparing for mass firings of federal workers, rather thansimply furloughing them, as is the usual practice during ashutdown. White House press secre-

tary Karoline Leavittsaid earlier this week that layoffs were “imminent.”

“If they don’twant further harmontheir constituents back home, then theyneed to reopen the government,” Leavitt said Thursday of Democrats.

Democratic lawmakers seeVoughtasthe architect of astrategy to refuse to spend congressionally approved funds, using atool known as a“pocket rescission” in which theadministration submits plans to return unspent money to Congress just before the end of

White House officials refusedtospeculateonthe future use of pocket rescissions after rollingthemout in late August. But oneof Vought’sformer colleagues, insisting on anonymity to discuss the budgetdirector’s plans, said thatfuture pocket rescissions could be 20 times higher Thursday is Day 2ofthe shutdown, andalreadythe dialisturnedhigh. The aggressive approach coming from the Trumpadministration is what certain lawmakers and budget observers feared if Congress, which has the responsibility to pass legislation to fund government, failed to do its work and relinquished control to the White House.

Vought,ina private conference call with House GOPlawmakers Wednesday afternoon, told them of lay-

HouseSpeakerMike Johnson, R-Benton, underscored Thursday that the shutdown givesTrump andVought vast power over the federal government. He blamed Democrats and said “they have effectively turnedoff the legislative branch” and “handed it over to the president.”

“WhenCongressturns off the funding, and the funding runs out, it is up to the commander-in-chief, thepresident of the United States, to determine howthose resources will be spent,” the speaker said. Still, Johnsonsaidthat Trumpand Voughttake“no pleasure in this.” The Democrats are holding fast to their demands to preserve health care funding andrefusing to back a bill that fails to do so,warning of pricespikesfor millions of Americansnationwide.

Trump, Vought cut$7.6B in cleanenergyprojectsinbluestates

BY MATTHEW DALY and MICHAEL PHILLIS Associated Press

WASHINGTON The Trump administrationiscancelling

$7.6 billioningrants that supported hundreds of clean energy projects in 16 states, all of which voted for Democrat Kamala Harris in last year’s presidential election.

The move comes as PresidentDonaldTrump threatens deep cuts in his fight with congressional Democrats over the government shutdown.

The Energy Department saidina statement Thursdaythat223 projects were terminated after areview determined they did not adequately advancethe nation’s energy needs or were not economically viable. Officials did not provide details about which projects are being cut, but said funding came from the Office of Clean Energy Demonstrations, Office of Energy Efficiency and RenewableEnergy,and other DOE bureaus.

Thecutsare likelytoaffect battery plants,hydro-

gen technology projects, upgradestothe electric grid andcarbon-captureefforts, amongmanyothers, according to the environmental nonprofitNatural Resources Defense Council.

RussellVought, the White House budgetdirector, highlighted thecutbacksina social media post lateWednesday, sayingmoney “to fuel the Left’sclimate agenda is beingcancelled.”

He said projects are on the chopping block inCalifornia, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey,New Mexico, New York,Oregon,Vermont and Washington state.

Vought and theEnergy Department did not explain how they came up with their list of targeted states considering that dozensof stateshaveclean energy projects. Butall 16 targeted states supported Harris, and in each of thosestates, both U.S. senators voted against theRepublican’sshort-term funding bill to keep thegovernmentworking.

Thecuts include up to $1.2 billion forCalifornia’s hydrogen hub that is aimed at accelerating hydrogentechnology and production, and up to $1 billionfor ahydrogen project in the Pacific Northwest. ATexas hydrogenproject anda three-state project in West Virginia, Ohioand Pennsylvania were spared, according to clean-energy supporters who obtained a list of the DOEtargets

Trumpsaidinaninterview taped WednesdaywithOne America News, aconservative outlet, that his administration couldcut projects Democrats want —“favorite projects, and they’d be permanently cut.”

“I’mallowed to cut things that never should have been approved in the first place and Iwill probably do that,”

Trump said. Aclip from the interview wasreleased ahead of the full interview set to air Thursday night.

Trump’scommentsshow thatheand Vought are treating American “families and their livelihoods likepawns in some sort of sick political game,” said Sen. PattyMur-

Climbing star dies in fall from El Capitan

BY JAIMIE DING Associated Press

LOS ANGELES Apopular

ray,D-Wash.

“This administration has hadplansinthe worksfor monthstocancel critical energy projects, and now they are illegally takingaction to kill jobsand raise people’s energy bills,” shesaidina statement.“This is ablatant attempttopunish the political opposition.”

CaliforniaGov.Gavin Newsom said the private sector has committed $10 billionfor thestate’shydrogen project. The cut threatens over 200,000 jobs, New-

som said.

The California project is one of seven clean-energy projects from West Virginia to Washington state selected by the Biden administration for a$7billion programto kickstart development and productionofhydrogenfuel, part of formerPresident Joe Biden’sagenda to slow climatechange.

TheDOE said it hasreviewed billions of dollars awardedbythe Bidenadministration after Trump won the presidentialelec-

tion last November.More than aquarter of the rescinded grants were awarded between Election Day and Inauguration Day,the department said.

“President Trump promised to protect taxpayer dollars andexpand America’s supply of affordable, reliable, and secure energy.Today’scancellationsdeliver on that commitment,” Energy Secretary Chris Wright said. Award recipients have 30 days to appeal theDOE’s termination decision.

“He’sbeen climbingsince he was ayoung boy,” she said. “His heart and soul was truly to just climb.”

Thedeath came on the first dayofthe federalgovernment shutdown, which left national parks“generally”open, withlimited operations and closed visitors centers, according tothe

Alaskan climber fell to his death from Yosemite National Park’sElCapitan, marking the third death in the park this summer Balin Miller,23, died ina climbing accident Wednesday,his mother Jeanine Girard-Moorman confirmed.

National Park Service. The park servicedid notrespond to an email requesting comment, and it’s unclear what staff remains at Yosemite during theshutdown.

El Capitan is an enormous sheer granite rock face of approximately3,000 feet thatentices big-wall rock climbers from all over the world.

See agenda documentsat: http://www.lafayettela.gov/obcouncil/default.aspx REGULAR MEETING LAFAYETTE PARISH COUNCIL 705 W. UniversityAvenue, TedA.Ardoin

City-Parish Council Auditorium TUESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2025 4:30 p.m.

ments’.Bid information mayalsobeviewedon‐line,and electronic bids maybesubmitted online at www.centralauctionh ouse.com.Specifications will be availableFriday, October 3, 2025.

Theowner

the righttorejectany andall bids forjustcause.Inac‐cordance with

(a)(1)(b), thepro‐

andthose

AGENDA

CALL TO ORDER

1. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance

2. COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS

3. EXECUTIVE/MAYOR-PRESIDENT’SREPORT

A) Budget to Actual Comparison of MajorParishFunds –August 2025 Preliminary

B) Audit Findings Update–September 2025

RESOLUTION

4. PR-022-2025 Aresolution of the Lafayette ParishCouncil ordering andcalling aspecial election to be held in the Parish of Lafayette, State of Louisiana, to authorize the continuation of aspecial tax therein, making application to the StateBond Commission, and providing for other matterinconnection therewith. (CAO)

JOINT RESOLUTION

5. JR-036-2025 Ajoint resolution of the Lafayette City Counciland the Lafayette ParishCouncil certifying thatLafayette Parishwill comply with the requirementsofthe State of Louisiana Off-System Bridge Replacement Program. (Public Works)

REPORTS AND/OR DISCUSSION ITEMS

6. Energy Efficiency Program –Louisiana Public Service Commission, District 2(Ken Stansbury)

7. LPSS Update by Superintendent Francis Touchet (ABRubin)

ORDINANCES FOR FINAL ADOPTION

8. PO-044-2025 An ordinance of the Lafayette ParishCouncil authorizing the Lafayette Mayor-President to enter into aCooperative Endeavor Agreement and Act of Donation by and between Lafayette City-Parish Consolidated Government and Parish of Acadia concerning the donationofasurplus 2003 tanker fire truck. (Fire)

9. PO-046-2025 An ordinance of the Lafayette ParishCouncil authorizing and directing the Lafayette Mayor-President to execute and submitthe “Temporary Housing and Shelter Assistance Program Waiver of Land Use/Permitting Form” in accordance with La.R.S 29:726(F)(3)(b)(iii)(aa). (CD&P)

ANNOUNCEMENTOFVACANCY ON BOARD/COMMISSION

10. Avacancy will existonthe Lafayette Convention and Visitors Commission for afour-year term effective01-01-2026. Applicants must reside in the unincorporated area of the ParishofLafayette Individuals wishing to submit aresume forthe above volunteer vacancy must be aregisteredvoter and aresident of Lafayette Parish. Yearly ethics training for all appointees is required as is financial disclosureunder certain circumstances. Resumes areto be forwarded to Joseph Gordon-Wiltz, Clerk of the Council, P.O. Box 4017-C, Lafayette,LA70502 or emailed to BCLafayette@ LafayetteLA.gov no later than noon, Tuesday,October 21, 2025 with appointment(s) to be made at the Tuesday,November 4, 2025 Regular Meeting of the Lafayette Parish Council. Resume submissions are public record.

CONSIDER APPOINTMENT(S) BY THE COUNCIL, AS AWHOLE, TO BOARDS/COMMISSIONS

10. Appointment of to the Lafayette ParishLibrary Board of Controlfor a five-year term effective12-01-2025.

12. Appointment of to the Lafayette ParishWaterworks DistrictSouthBoardfor a five-year term effective11-01-2025. Applicants must reside within the districtboundaries.

13. Appointment of to the Lafayette ParishWaterworks DistrictNorth Boardfor a five-year term effective12-01-2025. Applicants must reside within the districtboundaries.

14. Appointment of to the Lafayette ParishWaterworks DistrictNorth Boardfor a five-year term effective12-01-2025. Applicants must reside within the districtboundaries.

transportation.

12. Avacancy exists on theKeep Lafayette Beautiful Committee for the remainder of an unexpired two-year term thru 11-30-2026.

13.A vacancy exists on theBoardofZoning Adjustment for theremainder of an unexpired five-year term thru 06-30-2029. Individuals wishing to submit aresume forthe above volunteer vacancies must be aregistered voter anda resident of Lafayette Parish. Yearlyethics training for allappointees is required as is financialdisclosure under certain circumstances. Resumes aretobeforwarded to Joseph Gordon-Wiltz, Clerk of the Council, P.O. Box4017-C, Lafayette, LA 70502 or emailed to BCLafayette@LafayetteLA.gov no later than noon,Tuesday,October 21, 2025 with appointment(s) to be made at the Tuesday,November 4, 2025 Regular Meeting of theLafayette City Council. Resume submissions are public record. CONSIDER APPOINTMENT(S) BY THE COUNCIL, AS AWHOLE, TO BOARDS/COMMISSIONS

14. Appointment of to the Heymann Performing Arts Center and Frem F. BoustanyConvention Center Boardfor afour-year term effective12-01-2025.

15. Appointment of to the Heymann Performing Arts Center and Frem F. BoustanyConvention Center Boardfor afour-year term effective12-01-2025. APPOINTMENT BY COUNCILMEMBERS, MAYOR-PRESIDENT AND/ OR ANY OTHER DIRECT APPOINTING AUTHORITY

AppointingAppointee Name Board, CommissionEffective Effective Authority and Address and/or Legal AgencyTerm Date

16. ULL President Dr.E.Joseph Savoie Cajundome Commission indefinite 09-19-2025 (Dr.Jaimie Hebert) INTRODUCTORY ORDINANCES

18. CO-108-2025 An ordinance of the Lafayette City Council amending the Lafayette DevelopmentCode and theofficial map of theCityofLafayette, providing for theannexationofadditional land intothe corporatelimitsof theCityofLafayette, Louisiana, CaseNo. 2025-17-REZ 601 Tolson Road Annexation, located generally north of Darbonne Road, eastofTolson Road, and south of Raspberry Lane; and assigning azoning classification of RS-1 (Residential Single-Family) (District 4). (CD&P)

18.CO-109-2025 An ordinance of the Lafayette City Council amending the Lafayette DevelopmentCode so as to reclassify theproperty of Case No. 2025-18-REZ 412 Piave Street Rezoning,located generally north of Haig Street, eastofPiaveStreet, and south of Carmel Drive; being rezoned from RS-1 (Residential Single-Family) to RM-1(Residential Mixed). (CD&P)

19.CO-110-2025 An ordinance of the Lafayette City Council amending the Lafayette DevelopmentCode so as to reclassify theproperty of Case No. 2025-19-REZ 400 Block of Croft RowRezoning, located generally north of Dunvegan Court, west of Culloden Lane, and south of Driftwood Street; being rezoned from RS-1 (Residential Single-Family) to RM-1(Residential Mixed). (CD&P)

20. CO-111-2025 An ordinance of the Lafayette City Council amending theFY 24/25 operating &capital budget of theLafayette City-ParishConsolidated Governmenttoprovide for adjustments of revenue and appropriation estimates. (Finance)

21. CO-112-2025 An ordinance of the Lafayette City Council authorizing the Lafayette Mayor-President to enter into an Act of Depositonbehalf of the Lafayette Police Departmentofmounted horseRIO to Senior Corporal DavidStanley (Police Horse). (Finance)

22. CO-113-2025 An ordinance of the Lafayette City Council amending City Ordinance Nos. CO-037-2023, CO-034-2021, and CO-038-2023 to clarify the authority granted to the DepartmentofFinance to make administrative revisionstothe operating and capital budgets of Lafayette City-Parish Consolidated Governmentrelated to NTIA Grant, EDA-New Iberia Grant, andEDA-JenningsGrant. (LFT Fiber)

the State of Louisiana, Department of Family and Children Services. (DistrictAttorney)

20. PO-049-2025 An ordinance of the Lafayette Parish Council amending the FY 24/25 operating&capital budgets of the Lafayette City-Parish Consolidated Government to provide for adjustments of revenue and appropriation estimates.(Finance)

21. PO-050-2025 An ordinance of the Lafayette Parish Council declaring the Ridge RoadatRue du Belier Road Intersection Improvements Project and the Ridge Road at South Domingue Road Intersection Improvements Project apublic necessity and authorizing the acquisition of the necessary rights-of-way,immovable property,and other property rights requisite to the construction of said projects, either on an amicable basis or through the proper useofthe expropriation process if necessary.(Public Works) JOINT INTRODUCTORYORDINANCES

22. JO-052-2025 Ajointordinance of the Lafayette City Council and the Lafayette Parish Council amending the FY 24/25 operatingbudget of the Lafayette City-Parish Consolidated Government to provide for adjustments of revenue and appropriation estimates.(Finance)

23. JO-053-2025 Ajointordinance of the Lafayette City Council and the Lafayette Parish Council amending the FY 24/25 operatingand capital budgets of the Lafayette City-Parish Consolidated Government, recognizing revenues in the amount of $5,000,000 received from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), appropriatingwithin the Traffic, Roads,and Bridges Department, TrafficEngineering Division,authorizingthe Lafayette MayorPresident to execute contracts with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) for the Project (H.016577) LA 733 (E.Broussard)@ Vincent Road Roundabout and declaring the project apublic necessity,authorizingthe acquisition of the necessary rights-of-way,immovable property and other property rights requisite to the constructionofsaid project, either on an amicable basis or through the proper useofthe expropriation process, if necessary (Traffic, Roads and Bridges)

24. JO-054-2025 Ajointordinance of the Lafayette City Council and the Lafayette Parish Council declaring the Veterinarian Road Bridge Replacement Project apublic necessity and authorizing the acquisition of the necessary rights-of-way,immovable property and other property rights requisite to the construction of said project, either on an amicable basis or through the proper useofthe expropriation process, if necessary.(Traffic, Roads and Bridges)

25. JO-055-2025 Ajointordinance of the Lafayette City Council and the Lafayette Parish Council providing for the abandonment of aten (10’)foot utility servitude on LotE-127-A and E-127-B of the Bois De Lafayette, Inc. Subdivision,locatedat700 and 702 EastBayou Parkway.(CD&P)

COMMENT(S) FROM THE PUBLIC

26. Comments from the public on any other matter(s) notonanagenda. ADJOURN IN ACCORDANCE WITH LA. R.S. 42:14(E)ASENACTED BY ACT NO. 393 OF 2023 AND THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT,PLEASE CONTACT JOSEPH GORDON-WILTZ, COUNCIL CLERK, AT (337) 291-8810 DESCRIBING THE ASSISTANCE THATISNECESSARY,IFSPECIAL ASSISTANCE AND/OR ACCOMMODATIONS ARE NEEDED.

161109-563678-OCT3-1T $236.25

City-Parish Consolidated Government to

Road Sidewalks Project apublic necessity and authorizing the acquisition of the necessaryrights-of-way,immovable property and other property rights requisitetothe construction of said project, either on an amicable basis or through the proper use of the expropriationprocess, if necessary. (Public Works)

26. CO-117-2025 An ordinance of the Lafayette CityCouncilauthorizing the Lafayette Mayor-President and/or the Director of Utilities to accept the sub-awardofa grant under the Section 40101(D) Grid Resilience FormulaGrant Program, authorizingacostmatch for said grant in the amount of $3,982,500, and amending the FY 24/25 capital budget of the Lafayette City-Parish Consolidated Government by transferringthe sum of $2,057,500 from Retained Earnings Reserve to the Copper Overhead Line Rehabilitation, Wood Pole Improvements, and Distribution Automation/ Feeder Restoration Projects within the Utilities Department. (Utilities)

27. CO-118-2025 An ordinance of the Lafayette CityCouncilauthorizing the Lafayette Mayor-President to execute the Amendment No.5to the Wholesale Water Agreement between the Lafayette City-Parish Consolidated Government and the CityofBroussard, Louisiana. (Utilities) JOINTINTRODUCTORYORDINANCES

28. JO-052-2025 Ajoint ordinance of the Lafayette CityCounciland the Lafayette Parish Councilamending the FY 24/25 operating budget of the Lafayette City-Parish Consolidated Government to providefor adjustments of revenue and appropriationestimates. (Finance)

29. JO-053-2025 Ajoint ordinance of the Lafayette City Council and the Lafayette Parish Council amending the FY 24/25 operating and capital budgets of the Lafayette City-Parish Consolidated Government, recognizing revenues in the amount of $5,000,000 received from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD), appropriatingwithin the Traffic, Roads, and Bridges Department, Traffic EngineeringDivision, authorizingthe Lafayette Mayor-President to execute contracts withthe Louisiana Department of Transportation

SAINTS

great state of Louisiana.”

“This agreement solidifies a partnership for decades to come,” she added.

The lease runs through 2035 and then gives the Saints options to renew every five years through 2055. It also resolves sticking points that had delayed final approval even after the stadium lease itself was finalized last month.

At issue were the team’s lucrative leases tied to Benson Tower, Champions Square, and the Saints’ practice facility in Jefferson Parish, which state officials had sought to separate from the Superdome deal.

In the end, the state and the Saints agreed to sign the package together, clearing the way for Landry and Benson to make the extension official at the ceremony inside the Dome.

The signing averts what had become a tense standoff that has complicated New Orleans’ bid to host the 2031 Super Bowl, a showcase event that requires a long-term stadium commitment. Because of the stalemate, the city missed an NFL deadline last month to be placed on the shortlist of host sites.

Saints spokesperson Greg Bensel said then that if a lease could be finalized in time, Benson would aim to persuade NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to reopen the bidding.

“Governor, I am confident that between you and I, we will give it our absolute best effort,” Benson said Thursday Any bid would still require a formal proposal from the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation and City Hall,

JOBS

Continued from page 1A

in the oil and gas industry

“What this area needs heavily are some higher prices,” Scott said, “in two particular areas, and one is in the price of oil. This remains a problem here as this area relies heavily on servicing oil and gas extraction in the Gulf of Mexico. They also need the price of rubber gloves in China to go up.”

The Lafayette MSA is the second-most dependent of all of the state’s MSAs on the oil and gas industry and the “moribund drilling activity” in the Gulf will be a drag on the economy, he said.

The price of oil has been steady the past three years, bouncing between $60 and $70 a barrel, but the higher tariffs on steel, aluminum and copper — all heavy components for offshore exploration — have dropped the rig count down to only 10 as of July Scott said.

Relief will be coming, he said, as the Trump administration reversed Biden-era policies on drilling in the Gulf that dropped lease sale 70%. Rig count in the Gulf plunged when the price of oil plunged in 2015, and the

and there is no assurance New Orleans will ultimately land the game. On the stadium lease, formally called the “Stadium Use Agreement,” the state represented by the Louisiana Stadium and Exposition District, known as the Superdome Commission — won several concessions compared with the landmark 2009 deal negotiated under former Gov Bobby Jindal.

The Saints will no longer automatically receive 42% of all gross food and beverage sales at games Instead, the parties will use profitsharing model: the Superdome Commission will share in annual concession proceeds above $7 million, while the Saints will contribute $2.75 million each year toward overhead costs.

If concession proceeds do not reach $7 million, the Saints will still get 38% of gross sales, but only if annual attendance tops 530,000. If not, their share drops to 37% In addition, the deal gives the state more favorable terms in marketing the Dome’s exclusive suites for marquee events such as the

industry has yet to recover

The area will also lose around 700 jobs when SafeSource Direct winds down operations in the coming weeks.

Another issue is the declining enrollment at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, he said Total students are down 14%.

“The problem is it’s going to be a more and more difficult problem to deal with,” Scott said. “The birth rate in the U.S. peaked in about 2007. The pipeline feeding people (to universities) is a real problem going forward.”

Notes on the big employers in the area include:

n Stuller, now at 1,550 employees and the largest private employer not related to health care, is running out of room at its headquarters in south Lafayette.

n CGI is now at 750 employees and hopes to add another 80 if contracts fall into place. It has begun some contingency hiring with salaries in the $75,000 to $100,000 range.

n VieMed is now at 430 jobs in Lafayette and 1,121 across the country and is projecting 11% growth over the next two years.

n LHC Group continues to lower its job total since being bought by UnitedHealth.

Super Bowl, NCAA Final Four and College Football Playoff games, while also requiring the Saints to share in the costs of future upgrades, including those mandated by the NFL.

The new lease also includes the first-ever provisions meant to deter a future owner from relocating the team. This version of the lease is likely to extend past Benson’s lifetime, which means it will likely be in place at the time that a new owner buys the team.

Should the Saints decline to renew after the initial 10year term, they would owe the state $75 million a penalty that gets smaller over time. Separate “liquidated damages” provisions, initially as high as $200 million, are designed to recoup some of the state’s investment in Superdome renovations. Those also decline over the life of the agreement.

It’s not clear the extent to which the provisions in the lease would dissuade a future owner from moving the team In the past, Benson said that Saints President Dennis Lauscha, who

After being at 936 in Lafayette two years ago, it now employs 738.

In Iberia Parish, the deepening of the Acadiana Gulf of Mexico Access Channel has sparked interest in the Port of Iberia. Turner Industries, which will build modular components for LNG and chemical plants in south Louisiana, will add about 500 jobs over the next two years.

Also, Chart Industries employs 328 at its site at the port and has a five-year backlog of work, Scott said.

Construction of the First Solar plant should be complete by the end of the year he said. It has already hired 550 of the 850 to 1,000 workers it hopes to ultimately employ Aviation Exteriors, which does aircraft painting for FedEx, now employs 225 and could add another 25 when it adds Air Canada and Allied from Algeria into its mix, Scott said.

“The Port of Iberia is blowing and going. It’s doing really, really great,” Scott said. “There are a lot of good things happening in Iberia Parish. There’s a lot of jobs being created.”

Email Adam Daigle at adaigle@theadvocate.com.

will likely negotiate the sale some day, has been instructed not to sell to anyone who would consider moving the Saints out of New Orleans.

The NFL and its owners also have a role in approving any ownership transition, which would require a vote of support by at least threequarters of the owners.

The state and Benson’s ownership group also reached a new lease for Benson Tower, the 26-story office building adjacent to the Superdome that has long been a point of contention.

Under the new terms, the state government will lease the building for 10 years, with a single five-year extension option. That replaces the previous arrangement, under which the Benson Tower lease was automatically tied to the length of the stadium lease.

The deal reduces the amount of space the state must rent and lowers the rent by $1 per square foot starting next year, trimming annual costs by about

$200,000, to $9.1 million. Future annual increases are capped at 2%, and the state gains the right to sublet unused space. The state’s share of operating expenses is also reduced, and the lease includes an exit clause if Benson were to no longer own the Saints.

The state also secured more favorable terms for Champions Square, the outdoor entertainment space next to the Superdome that is owned by Benson.

The lease will now run for 10 years with no renewal options, at a fixed rent of $2.2 million annually Parking revenue from the property will go to the state, while the two sides will split the costs of future upgrades equally

Finally, the ground lease for the Saints’ training facility in Metairie has been extended on the same timetable as the stadium agreement, but with additional costs shifted toward the team. The Saints will now pay a larger share of oper-

ating expenses, particularly the insurance bill. Taken together, the package represents the most significant overhaul of the Saints’ lease arrangements since 2009. While the team retains key revenue streams that help it stay competitive in one of the NFL’s smallest markets, the state secured limits on costs, greater protections for taxpayers and provisions that tie the Saints to New Orleans for the foreseeable future.

Bensel said the Saints organization sees the deal as mutually beneficial.

“We have negotiated at various times with the state on lease extensions for more than 20 years and we must say that we are extremely pleased with the outcome of this particular agreement,” he said.

“Our goal remains to be here long-term, continue to improve the stadium for the benefit of our fans and be a great partner to the city of New Orleans and state of Louisiana,” Bensel added.

Popeyes to build 300 restaurants in Mexico

Popeyes said it will make a major expansion in Mexico, working with four franchisees to open more than 300 restaurants across the country over the next decade.

There are 42 Popeyes restaurants in Mexico, according to its website, with most around Mexico City and in the state of Jalisco.

“Mexico represents a tremendous growth opportunity for Popeyes, and we’re thrilled to be partnering with experienced and passionate franchisees who share our vision,” said Duncan Montero, LAC president of Restaurant Brands International, parent company of Popeyes. Miami-based RBI also owns Burger King, Tim Hortons and Firehouse Subs.

Popeyes has more than 5,000 locations worldwide. The chain has made recent aggressive moves to grow internationally, launching ambitious plans to open 1,700 restaurants in China over the next decade, while moving into Italy Czech Republic, Costa Rica, South Korea and Poland.

NBCUniversal, YouTube TV mend rift with deal

YouTube TV and NBCUniversal announced a new distribution agreement Thursday, averting a blackout that could have interrupted programming routines for nearly 10 million customers.

NBCUniversal secured carriage for its entire portfolio of TV channels, including NBC, CNBC and Spanish-language Telemundo In addition the company will launch a new channel, NBC Sports Network, this fall and it will join YouTube TV’s lineup. The deal also makes Universal movies and television shows available to YouTube consumers on-demand.

YouTube now ranks as the nation’s top video provider, according to Nielsen.

Wall Street ticks to more records, led by tech

NEW YORK U.S. stocks edged up to more records on Thursday as technology stocks kept rising and as Wall Street kept ignoring the shutdown of the U.S. government.

The S&P 500 added 0.1% to its all-time high set the day before. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 79 points, or 0.2%, and the Nasdaq composite climbed 0.4%. Both also hit records.

Thursdays on Wall Street typically have investors reacting to the latest weekly tally of U.S. workers applying for unemployment benefits. But D.C.’s shutdown meant this week’s report on jobless claims has been delayed Friday’s monthly tally of jobs created and destroyed across the economy also will likely not arrive on schedule.

That increases uncertainty when much on Wall Street is riding on investors’ expectation that the job market is slowing by enough to convince the Federal Reserve to keep cutting interest rates, but not by so much that it leads to a recession Musk reports Tesla sales jump after boycotts

NEW YORK Months after Elon Musk left the Trump administration to the relief of Tesla investors worried about boycotts, the world’s richest man has announced some good news: Sales of Tesla cars are back. Well, maybe. The electric vehicle maker run by Musk reported Thursday that car sales jumped 7% in the three months through September after plunging for most of the year as people turned off by his embrace of President Donald Trump and far-right politicians in Europe balked at buying his cars. But the jump comes with a caveat: Tesla benefited from consumers taking advantage of a $7,500 tax credit before it expired on Sept. 30, a surge in buying that helped all EV makers. In fact, many Tesla rivals saw sales rise more. Rivian Automotive reported a 32% increase.

BUSINESS

OxyChem deal reached

Bid potentially Warren Buffett’s last big deal

BY JOSH FUNK Associated Press

OMAHA, Neb Berkshire Hathaway is buying Occidental Petroleum’s chemical division for $9.7 billion in what may be the last big acquisition involving the consummate dealmaker, Warren Buffett. Buffett wasn’t mentioned anywhere in materials released by Berkshire Hathaway discussing the deal Thursday, potentially

signaling a passing of the torch to Vice Chair Greg Abel, to whom Buffett will hand the CEO title in January But given the relationship that Buffett has with Occidental CEO Vicki Hollub, who he has praised ever since helping her with an acquisition back in 2019, and the fact that he likes to be involved anytime Berkshire spends more than $1 billion dollars, he certainly had a role. Even after the transition, Buffett will remain chairman at Berkshire and will still be involved in deciding how to spend the conglomerate’s colossal pile of more

than $344 billion cash. Berkshire’s cash reserves have been growing for years because Buffett has been unable to find any major acquisitions at attractive prices since completing the $11.6 billion acquisition of Alleghany Insurance in 2022. Prices for big acquisitions have been driven higher in recent years by the entry of more hedge funds in the market.

The OxyChem deal is sizeable, but it still uses less than 3% of Berkshire’s cash and likely isn’t big enough to make a significant difference in the conglomerate’s

bottom line. Investors seemed underwhelmed with the deal with Berkshire’s shares trading down slightly and Occidental’s shares dropping more than 7% Thursday after it was announced.

OxyChem makes chlorine for water treatment, vinyl chloride for plastics and calcium chloride that’s used to treat icy roads along with an assortment of other chemicals. It will fit nicely alongside Lubrizol, which Buffett bought in 2011 for $9 billion, but Berkshire typically doesn’t consolidate the operations of the companies it buys.

Gatorade, Cheetos among Pepsi products getting a natural makeover

BY DEE-ANN DURBIN and TED SHAFFREY Associated Press

VALHALLA, N.Y Pepsi has a new challenge: keeping products like Gatorade and Cheetos vivid and colorful without the artificial dyes that U.S. consumers are increasingly rejecting.

PepsiCo, which also makes Doritos, Cap’n Crunch cereal, Funyuns and Mountain Dew, announced in April that it would accelerate a planned shift to using natural colors in its foods and beverages. Around 40% of its U.S. products now contain synthetic dyes, according to the company

But just as it took decades for artificial colors to seep into PepsiCo’s products, removing them is likely to be a multiyear process. The company said it’s still finding new ingredients, testing consumers’ responses and waiting for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to approve natural alternatives. PepsiCo hasn’t committed to meeting the Trump administration’s goal of phasing out petroleumbased synthetic dyes by the end of 2026.

“We’re not going to launch a product that the consumer’s not going to enjoy,” said Chris Coleman, PepsiCo’s senior director for food research and development in North America.

“We need to make sure the product is right.

FDA OKs

BY MATTHEW PERRONE Associated Press

WASHINGTON Federal officials have approved another generic version of the abortion pill mifepristone, a regulatory formality that quickly triggered pushback from anti-abortion groups and politicians aligned with the Trump administration.

Drugmaker Evita Solutions announced on its website that the Food and Drug Administration signed off on its low-cost form of the pill, which is approved to end pregnancies through 10 weeks. Students for Life Action, which opposes abortion, in a statement

Coleman said it can take two or three years to shift a product from an artificial color to a natural one. PepsiCo has to identify a natural ingredient that will have a stable shelf life and not change a product’s flavor Then it must ensure the availability of a safe and adequate supply The company tests prototypes with trained experts and panels of consumers, then makes sure the new formula won’t snag its manufacturing process. It also has to design new packaging.

Tostitos and Lay’s will be the first PepsiCo brands to make the shift, with naturally dyed tortilla and potato chips expected on store shelves later this year and naturally dyed dips due to be on sale early next year Most of the chips, dips and salsas in the two lines already are naturally colored, but there were some exceptions.

The reddish-brown tint of Tostitos Salsa Verde, for example, came from four synthetic colors: Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Red 40 and Blue 1. Coleman said the company is switching to carob powder which gives the chips a similar color, but needed to tweak the recipe to ensure the addition of the cocoa alternative wouldn’t affect the taste.

In its Frito-Lay food labs and test kitchens in Plano, Texas, PepsiCo is experimenting with ingredients like paprika and turmeric to

mimic the bright reds and oranges in products like Flamin’ Hot Cheetos, Coleman said.

The company is looking at purple sweet potatoes and various types of carrots to color drinks like Mountain Dew and Cherry 7UP, according to Damien Browne, the vice president of research and development for PepsiCo’s beverage division based in Valhalla, New York.

When the Pepsi-Cola Company was founded in 1902, the absence of artificial dyes was a point of pride. The company marketed Pepsi as “The Original Pure Food Drink” to differentiate the cola from rivals that used lead, arsenic and other toxins as food colorants before the U.S. banned them in 1906. But synthetic dyes eventually won over food companies. They were vibrant, consistent and cheaper than natural colors. They are also rigorously tested by the FDA.

Still, PepsiCo said it started seeing a small segment of shoppers asking for products without artificial colors or flavors more than two decades ago.

“We’re looking for those little signals that will become humongous in the future,” Amanda Grzeda, PepsiCo’s senior director of global sensory and consumer experience, said of the company’s close attention to consumer preferences.

Thursday called the approval “a stain on the Trump presidency and another sign that the deep state at the FDA must go.”

Republican Sen. Josh Hawley of Missouri also criticized the move in a post on X, stating: “I have lost confidence in the leadership at FDA.” President Donald Trump’s top health officials, including Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., face growing pressure from abortion opponents to reevaluate mifepristone, which was approved 25 years ago and has repeatedly been deemed safe and effective by FDA scientists. In a letter to Republican attorneys general last month, Kennedy

and FDA Commissioner Dr Marty Makary pledged to conduct a full review of the drug’s safety

The FDA approved the original version of mifepristone in 2000 and gradually eased access over time. That included approving the first generic pill, from drugmaker GenBioPro, in 2019. In 2021, the FDA under Democratic President Joe Biden permitted online prescribing and mail-order delivery of the drug, greatly expanding access. Abortion opponents have been fighting the change ever since.

Approval of generic drugs is typically a rote process at the FDA, with multiple copycat versions

usually approved after the patent on the original drug expires. The FDA typically approves such applications within 10 months. But filing documents posted to the FDA’s website show that Evita Solutions filed its application to market mifepristone four years ago. Approval of a second generic is unlikely to affect access to the pill, which is typically taken with another drug, misoprostol. The combination accounts for roughly two-thirds of all U.S. abortions. Mifepristone dilates the cervix and blocks the hormone progesterone while misoprostol causes the uterus to cramp and contract.

GILES

Continued from page1A

“Everybody out there who knowsBob knows he’sgot an amazingheart,” hesaid. “He’scommitted his time, resources and energy to make Acadianaa betterplaceto live.”

Athird-generation car salesman, Giles moved to Lafayette from his hometown outside of Houston in 1982 to open aVW, Audi and Porsche dealership. He found a community willing to open its doors to anyone. Lafayette is where he met hiswife, Sandy.The two have been married 41 years andhavetwo daughters, Halleyand Ashley

In giving back to Lafayette, Gilessaid he’sembodying the values instilled into him by his father and grandfathers —hard work, integrity and community.And in exhibiting those values himself, he hopes to inspire others to do the same.

“This award is not just arecognition of what I’ve done,but acall to continue working together to strengthen Lafayette,” he said. “I’m committed to carryingforward the spirit of service exemplified by all the previous honorees to help me build a brighterfuture for all of Acadiana.”

Email Ashley White at ashley.white@ theadvocate.com

ferryingdrugs. At least two of those operationswere carried out on vesselsthat originated from Venezuela.

force —anew rationale for past and future actions.

“The President determined that the United States is in anon-international armedconflictwith these designated terrorist organizations,” the memosays. Trump directed the Pentagon to “conductoperations against them pursuant to the law of armed conflict.”

“The United States has now reached acriticalpoint where we must use forcein self-defense and defenseof others againstthe ongoing attacksbythese designated terrorist organizations,” the memo says.

It signals apotential new moment not just in the administration’swillingness to reach beyond the norms of presidential authority to wage war,but in Trump’s stated “America First” agenda that favors non-intervention overseas. It also raises stark questions about how far the White House intends to use its war powers and if Congress will exert its authority to approve —orban —such military actions

The U.S. military last monthcarried outthree deadly strikes against boats in theCaribbean that the administration accused of

Those strikes followed up abuildup of U.S. maritime forces in theCaribbean unlike any seeninrecent times.

Thememo didnot include atimestamp, but it references aSept. 15 U.S.strike that “resultedinthe destruction of thevessel, the illicit narcotics, and the death of approximately 3unlawful combatants.”

“As we have said many times, the Presidentacted in line with the law of armed conflict to protect our countryfrom those trying to bring deadly poison to our shores and he is delivering on his promise to take on the cartels andeliminate thesenational security threatsfrom murdering more Americans,” White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly said.

The Pentagon referred questions to the White House.

Pentagon officials briefed senators on the strikes Wednesday,accordingto aperson familiar with the matter,who was not authorized to comment publicly andspoke onthe condition of anonymity

What theTrump administration laid out at the classified briefing at the Capitol was perceived byseveral

senators as pursuing anew legal framework that raised questions particularly regarding the role of Congress in authorizing anysuchaction,that person said.

The memo lays out arationale seen bothasthe administration’sjustification for themilitary strikesithas already taken on the boats in theCaribbean —which have raised concerns from lawmakers as potentially unlawful —aswellasany forward action to come.

Trump hasdesignated severalLatinAmericandrug cartels as foreignterrorist organizationsand theadministrationhad previously justifiedthe military action as anecessary escalation to stem the flow of drugs into theUnited States.

Pentagon officialscould not provide alist of the designated terrorist organizationsatthe center of the conflict, amatterthat wasa major sourceoffrustration for someofthe lawmakers who were briefed, according to the personfamiliar with thematter

While “friendly foreign nations have made significant efforts to combat theseorganizations,” thememo said, the groups “arenow transnational andconduct ongoing attacks throughout the Western Hemisphere as organized cartels.” The memo refers to cartelmembers as

“unlawful combatants.”

As the Republican administration takes aim at vessels in theCaribbean,lawmakers of both major political parties have raisedobjections and pressed Trump to go to Congress and seek war powers authority for such operations.

The first military strike, carried out Sept. 2onwhat theTrump administration saidwas adrug-carrying speedboat, killed11people Trump claimed it was operated by the Tren de Aragua gang, which was listed by the U.S. as aforeign terror-

ist organization this year

Several senators as well as humanrightsgroupsquestioned thelegalityofTrump’s actions. They called it potential overreach of executive authority in part because the military wasused forlaw enforcementpurposes.

Drone firm to create over 500 jobs

DMR Technologies opening manufacturing facility

BY ADAM DAIGLE Acadiana business editor

A U.S.-based drone manufacturer with offices across the globe will open a manufacturing facility in an old reptile tannery building in Lafayette.

DMR Technologies will move into the building at 105 Dorset

Ave. in the Freetown area and is expected to create 521 jobs over the next 10 years that will pay on average $85,000 a year, according to the office of Louisiana Economic Development. It will be the company’s first full-scale manufacturing facility Workers there will produce and deploy its flagship Field Ranger

X50 unmanned aerial systems for the American market.

The site will serve as DMR’s primary domestic production hub, integrating advanced flight control printing, rotor manufacturing, assembly, quality control and logistics staging, state officials said. It will house co-located engineering and compliance teams, dedicated

space for quality testing, an on-site warehouse and logistics staging.

Workers are expected to assemble 500-1,000 drones within the first year

“Louisiana is competing to win in next-generation industries like aerospace, defense and advanced technology,” Gov. Jeff Landry said.

“DMR’s decision to manufacture here is a vote of confidence in Louisiana’s workforce, our pro-growth policies and the momentum we are

The limited-edition Lafayette library card was designed by

New library card features colorful artwork

Lafayette native’s special design features egret

BY JA’KORI MADISON Staff writer

Lafayette Public Library has released its 2025 limited-edition library card featuring the creative vision of local artist Colette Bernard. The limited-edition library card features a whimsical bird flying with a stack of colorful books, with “Lafayette Public Library” written through the design in bright colors. Bernard says that growing up in south Louisiana, she always saw imagery of an egret carrying a baby in a cloth by its beak

“I wanted to create my own twist

on this concept. Instead of a baby, the egret is carrying books! I was sure to keep it colorful to match my style,” Bernard said.

Every year since 2017, the library has released specially designed cards that are created by a local artist as a way to celebrate the community and recognize the creativity and achievements that public libraries help nurture.

Lafayette native and accessory designer Bernard is known for her viral hair clip designs, which are based on specific professions, including careers in health care, dentistry and education. Pill capsules, bloody wisdom teeth and

calculators are just some of the designs she sells online. She also has accessories like blankets and scarves. Last year, the artist’s traffic cone hair claw clips went viral after a popular Instagram meme page that focuses on streets and sidewalks in New Orleans shared her design on their account.

Bernard said the best piece of advice she has ever gotten was to “be true to your art and your art will be true to you.” Her advice to those looking to get their artwork out into the world is not to wait for opportunity to come knocking, but

Acadiana Center for the Arts expands programs

BY JA’KORI MADISON

building statewide. This is exactly the type of project that delivers lasting opportunity for our people and communities.”

The company designs, engineers and manufactures high-performance unmanned aerial vehicles for enterprise and commercial applications. It has a global headquarters in Houston, an office in Detroit and a global operational

Tech outage disrupts La. financial aid programs

Agency says payments may be delayed

BY PATRICK WALL Staff writer

A technology outage has hobbled the state agency that manages Louisiana’s TOPS scholarship and college-savings programs, which could cause payment delays, the agency said Thursday

The Louisiana Office of Student Financial Assistance, or LOSFA, is experiencing an “incident” that disrupted its information technology systems, according to a statement posted online and sent to the news media Thursday afternoon.

The agency administers the state’s TOPS college-scholarship program and its START program, a 529 education savings account program to help families save for college or private school tuition. As of Thursday afternoon, the START website and an online tool for students to track their TOPS scholarships were not working.

The outage could lead to delayed scholarship or savings account payments, according to the statement, which said the Louisiana State Police and other agencies are investigating the cause.

“While we continue the investigation, we have notified all institutions regarding potential delayed student START account

BY JA’KORI MADISON Staff writer

The Salvation Army Lafayette will suspend its thrift store operations after Friday to identify a new location that will better support its mission and future growth.

Lt. Dushawn Dupree, commanding officer for the Salvation Army in Lafayette, says the temporary pause is to better support the organization’s future growth, and to steward community donations wisely, advance relocation planning, and build toward a stronger and more communityaccessible thrift store operation

“Our ministry continues through worship, referrals, community partnerships, and Angel Tree preparations for more than 500 local children as we work toward a stronger reopening that will fuel vital programs here in Lafayette.” While retail operations pause, its ministry will continue with weekly worship services on Sunday at the current location, monthly food-box distributions and the food pantry will also continue for individuals and families facing food insecurity

OPINION

Do somethingpatriotic andbecomeapollworker

Aug. 12 was National Poll Worker Recruitment Day,and it served as areminder that we’re sounding an urgent call to the people of Louisiana: We need you. The U.S. Election Assistance Commission established this advocacy day in 2020 to spotlight asimple truth: Serving as apoll worker is the single most impactful, nonpartisan way thatany individual person can engage in America’selections. Right now, hundreds of counties andparishes across the country are looking to fill poll worker positionsand Louisiana is no exception. The reasons are plain. The pool of experienced poll workers is aging,recruitment pipelines have thinned and disturbing harassment and threats aimed at election officials have pushed some public servants out of the booth Thatleaveslocal election administrators actively workingto staff polling places, train workers and protect the integrity of every vote.

Becoming acertified com-

missioner in Louisiana is easier than many think. Youcan register through your local Clerk of Court’s Office or theLouisianaSecretary of State’swebsite. It pays well, fitsmany schedules and, most importantly, offers an opportunity to serve something bigger than ourselves Serviceisalanguage we both knowwell.Asfounder of Vet the Vote andamilitary spouse, I’ve seen how military families translate commitment into action every day At We the Veterans and Military Families, we launched Military250 in New Orleans this February atSuperBowl LIX to markthe 250thanniversaries of the U.S.Army, Navy and Marine Corps. That launch wasn’tjust a ceremony,it was acall to action. Patriotismismore than aconcept; it’sapractice rooted in our daily actions.

This year, Military250 is recognizing 250veteran and military familyservice organizations, 250 leaders continuing their service

and 250 acts of service. The campaign reminds us that the journey to our nation’s250th anniversary is atime to honor thepast, reflect on our shared values and decide how we will carry forward this legacy of service. Military250 challenges every American:How will you serve?

For someveterans and military families, that service means stepping intolocal civic leadership or mentoring through aservice organization.

For others, it is volunteering at aschool, joining aneighborhood association or serving as apoll

Congress must support themedical research that changedmy son’slife

When my son was only 4monthsold, he was diagnosed with epilepsy.His first seizure lasted 45 minutes andleft ourfamily absolutelyterrified

But from that moment on, we were focused on finding the best way to help him survive. Medication after medication failed to control his seizures, and we were constantly worried about his safety. It was heartbreaking to watch the negative impacts epilepsy had on his quality of life.

Voting clerk Will Clancy opens the curtainfor Charlotte, 4, to join her mother,Megan Gibbens, in the voting booth.

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worker.These everyday acts of patriotic participation transform communities by fostering connection and reinforcing the shared values that bind us. We returned to New Orleans in August to link the momentum of Military250 with National Poll Worker Recruitment Day. We want to spotlight poll workasa patriotic act —accessible, meaningful and vital.

Certified commissioners ensure local elections run smoothly and correctly; they welcomevoters, verify registrations and protect theprocess from error and dis-

ruption. Their workupholds the very freedoms Military250 seeks to honor President Ronald Reagan warned that “freedom is afragile thing and it’snever morethan one generation away from extinction.” ArmyAir Corps and Air Force General Jimmy Doolittle captured the power of volunteerism when he said, “There’s nothing stronger than the heart of avolunteer.” If you’re looking foraway to celebrate America that goes beyond waving aflag on aholiday,consider this your invitation.

Louisiana needs poll workers. Whether you’re acollege student, retiree, active-duty spouse or someone seeking ameaningful waytogive back, this is how you can help. Visit your local Clerk of Court’s Office or the Louisiana Secretary of State’swebsite to learn how to register

Ellen Gustafsonisa Navy spouseand theco-founder and executive director of We the Veterans and Military Families. Donald Palmer serves as chairmanofthe U.S. Election AssistanceCommission.

Protectingkidsfrom online harm should be priority forCongress

During our search for an effective treatment, Ilearned thatmany people with epilepsy never reach complete seizure control. The statistics were troubling, but we continued to searchfor answers

Then came two new medications neitherofwhich wereeven approved when he was first diagnosed.Thanks to the groundbreaking research that made them possible, my son’sseizures arenow under control.

Many people don’tknow this, but epilepsy is more than just seizures, and while my son still faces many challenges of living with epilepsy,heisthriving. Being seizure-free allows him to spend time with his family andfriends, doing things he loves. He has also made significant progress in his education This is alife we couldonly have hoped for before these innovations.

But here’sthe reality: Stories like mine don’thappen withoutstrongfederal investment in medical research. The National Institutes of Healthhelps fund the work that turns promising ideas into lifesaving treatments. In fact, NIH-funded research wasthe basis for virtually every oneofthe 356 new drugs approved by theFDA between 2010 to 2019 Potential cuts to the NIH in the fiscal year 2026 budget would put that progress in danger,stalling the very breakthroughs thatallow kids like my son the chance for alife where theylearn and grow.Wecan’tlet that happen While we can’tpredict where thenext big medical discoverywill comefrom, we can make sure researchers have the resources to find it through funds

reliably distributed by theNIH.When funding is reliable, research institutions can pursue bold ideas and translate them into new therapies more efficiently.That means my son andother people with epilepsy may benefit from treatmentswehaven’teven imagined yet,treatments that could mean others currently living with uncontrolled seizures could live ahealthier life. From new treatmentsfor epilepsy to advances in cancer care and Alzheimer’s prevention,NIH funding fuels thepipeline of hope for patients.

Here in Louisiana, that investment doesn’tjust help patients; it also supportsthe people and places around them.In2024, NIH awards brought in more than $211 million to our state. That meansscientists at places like LSUcould keep working on promising projects. It means jobsfor residents, opportunities for students and partnerships that strengthen our hospitals andclinics. Every dollar spent on NIH research multiplies our scientific knowledge, moves forward innovation and saves lives. When we invest in research, we’re investing in our neighbors.

CuttingNIH funding would force research institutions to scale back or abandon critical projects. It would slow the development of treatments and cures before they even get off the ground and it would shrink the network of people dedicated to helping patients live longer,healthier lives. My son’s life today is living proof of what’spossible when we support research. We can’t afford to let progressstalland let down future generations.

As Congress works to reach adeal on thefiscal year 2026 appropriations, Iurgelawmakers to ensure strong, steady growth in NIH funding. Small discoveries today lead to life-changing breakthroughs tomorrow that give children like mine abrighter,healthier future.

Amanda Mitchellisthe executive director of Epilepsy Alliance Louisiana.

Millions of children are harmed every year by social media products: addicted, bullied, traumatized, trappedinto sexual encounters in virtual reality, and even kidnapped.

In September,two former researchers from Meta, the parentof Facebook andInstagram,testified before aSenate committee about thecompany’scynical lack of concern for child safety.After previous whistleblower reports, Meta could have instituted reformstoprioritize child safety; instead, they directed their lawyers to scrub all future research so that there would never again be apaper trail.

and manipulation of young lives. If such harmshappened foralack of aseat belt, we would makechildren buckle up. Things need to change and, thankfully,there is away to change them.

Last year,the Senate passed the Kids Online Safety Act with an overwhelmingly bipartisan vote of 91-3. KOSA would finally require Big Tech to take reasonable steps to design safer products and prevent foreseeable design-based harms. It would force them to give kids safer options and parents basic tools to check in and report identified harms. We had hoped the House would pass this legislation last year,too, but it still hasn’tvoted on it.

These former employees have madeit clear: Meta’stop priority is profits, with safetyadistant afterthought at best. Meta said “no” to stepsitknew wouldincrease child safety,because it knew they also would reduce platform engagement. Their only concern is that they don’t get caught.

Both political parties, after failing to act for years, now seem determined to go after Big Tech because of the testimony of whistleblowers like these, and because of arising chorus of parents whohave lost children to suicide and accidental deaths directly linked to social mediaproducts.

Sadly,Iampart of that chorus. Inever thought Iwould be. My wife Brandy and Ipresided over alarge and happy brood of children, including our youngest, Englyn, atypical 14-year-old wrapped up in theworld of her friends, all following one another on Snapchat and Instagram. We had no inkling that she was unhappy or depressed and yet,five years ago, we found her hanging in her bedroom.

We discovered later that Instagram was pushing videos normalizing andpromoting self-harm and hanging. Ourchild copied one in particular.Nearly ayear and ahalf after Englyn’sdeath, Instagram was pushing the same video via multiple accounts, with more than 1,500 views.

Let’sbeclear.Meta collects thousands of datapoints on each user and claims to care about the safety of teens. How could this dangerous video be sent to my daughter, repeatedly reported toMeta (including by me) andthen remain as part of its online recommendations? That’s too much control

TwoLouisianans can do the right thing and ensure that it does: Speaker of the House Mike Johnson and Republican Majority Leader Steve Scalise are the ones whoset the House agenda. We know Johnson and Scalise are under enormous pressure from Big Tech. These platforms spend millions on lobbyists every year.They wanttomakeKOSA go away —orwater it downtoprotect their own bottom line.

Meta has also invested heavily in Louisiana, including constructing a$10 billion data center in Richland Parish. There may be economic reasons whyour politicians did somersaults to get Meta to build here —even if the data center will produce a relatively small number of permanent jobs —but that does not mean they owe perpetual obedience to Big Tech.

September marked the fifth anniversary of Englyn’sdeath. It never gets easier, and it will never be OK.But Ialso am a religious man,and every religion teaches us to protect our children. Itrust in God’s promise that we will be with Englyn again someday,and until then, my purpose is to fight forher and every other child.

Meta knowsthat its products and design decisions are setting these tragedies in motion. We need and deserve help protecting our children from the poison these companies are putting in their schools and their bedrooms. Please, congressmen: Stand with us.

Toney Roberts lives in NewIberia.

COMMENTARY

ISSUE OF THE WEEK ECONOMIC POLICy

The Trump administration came into office promising to remakethe economy in ways that benefit businesses and American workers. Executiveorders have aimed at reducing regulations,and recently, President Donald Trump has changed the rules to make bringing in foreign workersonH-1B visasless attractivetoemployers.How will the administration’spolicies affectthe broader economy? Here aretwo perspectives

Trumpisright that tech visas araw deal forU.S.workers

The time has come to praise Donald Trump. Let’ssavor the moment. The president is right to challenge the tech worker visa known as H-1B. This is atemporary visa thatlets Americancompanieshire skilled foreign workersin“specialty occupations.”

The visa’sfans offer amirror image,withatwist,ofthe popular argument that low-skilled immigrants do jobs Americans won’t do. They say that the H-1B program providesworkers forjobs that Americans can’t do Consider,however,the employers’ extra incentive of paying holders of the H-1B visas less than the “prevailingwage” forAmericans with similar skills. They’re not allowed to,but they often do.

therecipients are Indians. That reflects agrowing industry dedicated to flooding the H-1B lottery with Indian applicants.

Tata Consultancy,anIndian tech services firm, lastyear captured 5,500 H-1B visas outofthe annual quotaof85,000.

Can-do spirit needsliberation from can’t-do regulation

4.7 years.

Froma Harrop

Some have laid off their American employees after forcing them to train their cheaper H-1B replacements. The maneuver is cleverlyspunas“knowledge transfer.” Companies accused of such practices include Disney andSouthern California Edison.

Critics further note that thevisa holders frequently don’tcome withskills so fabulous that there aren’t Americans willingand able to do the job

Another concern is the currently weak demand for tech workers in this country Since 2024,more than 240,000 tech workershavebeenlaid off. Americanswith thesecredentials are finding it harder to get these positions,and therise of artificial intelligence is likely to reduce opportunities even further

An H-1B visa is valid for uptothree yearsbut renewable for atotal of six years. The job can turn permanentifthe worker has agreen card applicationin the works. Thus, the visa eases one’sway to U.S. citizenship withoutgoingthrough the usual immigration process.

The program’sboosterscontend that the visa brings in highly skilled workers from all over the world who may stay and build the economy.That’sacompelling argument.

But the mechanics behind disbursing these visas do not speak of alevel playing field across the globe. About 70%of

“The Path to the American Dream Is Narrowing for Indian Tech Workers.” So reads aWall StreetJournal headline about expected changes in theH-1B visa program.

Why must theIndian Dream be to movetoAmerica? We understand the allure of Silicon America and the vast riches some tech entrepreneurs have harvested there. Several ofthe billionaires were Indian immigrants.

But thereisa considerable and growingtech industry in India that also needs workers with valuable tech skills. Those with invaluable skills would still be able to work in America under the proposed changes. The administration’splan isn’ttoend theprogram but to charge $100,000 for every H-1B application. The biggestusers of these visas are Amazon, Google, Microsoft, Apple and Meta. These companies are loaded. Given what top tech talent gets paid these days, afee of $100,000 per applicant would seem a mere rounding error The fee would weed out the less-impressive applicantsand reduce thefinancial incentive to recruit cheap talent abroad. SomeSiliconValley CEOs see wisdom in this approach.Posting on X, Netflix cofounder Reed Hastings called it “a great solution.”

By reducing competition, thefee would enhance thechances of candidates with truly special skills —and lessen theneed for alottery

Even if you buy theargument that Americanslack the skills that foreigners bearing H-1B visas offer,there’sanalternative. Sometimes theway to find Americanswho can do thejobs they allegedly can’t do is to train Americans to do them.

FromaHarrop is on X@FromaHarrop. She can be reached at fharrop@gmail. com

Philip K. Howard, agraduate of Taft prep school, Yale and the University of Virginia School of Law, says he never wore“white bucks.” This 1950s campus fashion waned before he matriculated. Those buckskin shoes were popular among young blades destined to become“whiteshoe lawyers” at prestigious “whiteshoe law firms,” such as Covington & Burling, where Howard, 76, is senior counsel.

He also is agenteel inveigher against the coagulation of American society,which is saturated with law. In his new book “Saving Can-Do: How to Revive the Spirit of America,” he argues thatlaw’sproper role is preventingtransgressions by authorities, not micromanaging choices so minutely that red tape extinguishes individual responsibilityand thesocial trust thatindividualism engenders. What has been called the “fetishization of process” —process as an end in itself costsmoney and stymies progress. Howard writes, “Doctors and nurses spend almost half their day doing deskwork”tocomply withregulations.

K-12schoolsmicromanaged by multihundred-page collective bargaining agreements withteachers unions “more closely resemble penalinstitutions” than centersfor nurturing,Howard writes. “The disempowermentofschool leaders” by unionrulesinthe past 50 years “isthe main reason badschoolsget worse, andwhy mediocreschoolsrarely improve.”

New York State, pandering to 19thcentury immigrants, mandates instruction aboutthe Irishpotato famine (1845-1852). Some Florida school districts, preemptively fending off lawyers, require written permission before giving a pupil aBand-Aid.

Before Hurricane Katrina,aNew Orleans high school valedictorian could notgraduate because shefailedthe state proficiency test five times.Itshouldnot takeanatural calamitytofracture society’s stalecrust, opening fissures through whichgreen shoots of fresh thinking can sprout, as has happened in postKatrina NewOrleans.

Historian Henry Steele Commager (19021998) deplored the nation’s“almost lawless passion for lawmaking.” This has built what Howard calls a“monument to theprecautionary principle”: “The obsessivedrive to foreclose anything thatmightgowrong has left little room for the freedom to make things go right.”

Almost 150 millionwords of federal laws and regulations, almost all generated since the 1960s, have created a“dreary public culture” and “a societyriven with distrust.”

This “squeezes the life out of freedom.” And nothing gets done.

In 2021, the Bidenadministration allocated $7.5billion to build anational network of electric vehicle charging stations. Three years later,only 11 had been built. For the administration’sfailure to expand broadband service, blame legislation larded withDEI (diversity, equityand inclusion)requirements, climate change rules, price controls, union preferences, etc.

An act was passed to reduce the4.7 years’ average time to completeenvironmental impact statements for federal projects.Four years later,the average completion time was:

In arecent18-year period in Illinois, an annualaverageofonly twoout of 95,000 teachers wereterminated forpoor performance. Illinois public education is acalamity in need of acalamity:aKatrina.Otherwise, thetask of reviving union-dominated schoolsis, Howard says, akinto“putting fumesback into a bottle.”

Whenchoices by peopleinauthority are, in Howard’swords, “strained through a legalsieve,” we understand Alexis de Tocqueville’s warning from nearly200 years ago: Minuteregulations that stifle intuition, judgment andfreedom perpetuate “a drowsy regularity,” andthe statusquo Ourancestors began this nation as an errandintoaninhospitable wilderness, then walked to Oregon, without laws preempting theirjudgments in daily choices. Butthe nation’s spirit “has been collapsing over the past fifty years,” Howardwrites, as Americanshavebeen trained by too much law “to focusoncompliance.” So,they“tiptoe through theday looking over theirshoulders” andavoiding risks. For thenation’s long-term vitality, nothing is riskier.

Email Will at georgewill@washpost.com

Landry defendscleanup afterSmitty’sfire

incident posed its own challenges because it fell in a regulatory “doughnut hole.”

BY DAVID J. MITCHELL Staff writer

Gov.Jeff Landry on Wednesday defended the cleanup of pollution that has flowed into waterways following last month’sexplosion and fire at Smitty’s Supply in Tangipahoa Parish, while federal officials said the work wouldpress ahead despite the government shutdown.

Landry and othergovernment officials traveledto Tangipahoa to address the situationafter newvideo emerged showing how much pollution remained.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and its contractors are working under emergency authority and have “redoubled” efforts to clean up, atop agency official said.

Drone video shot by a Mandevilleresident and posted online over the weekend showed some of the polluted ponds near Smitty’sand the Tangipahoa River,prompting Landry to call for aquickened recovery effort.

Landry, who posted his own video online over the weekend promising action after seeing the drone footage, defended the workof theEPA,his state officers and parish government. He suggestedtheir renewed collaboration was speeding the cleanup. He also pointed out that the

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footprint.

By building the Field Ranger X50 in Louisiana,it will better serve U.S. customers through shorter lead times, enhanced regulatory compliance and strengthened domestic supply chain capabilities, officials said

DMR will also build on its strategic partnership with Scott-based SoLA Drones said company co-founder and CEO David Wang.

“Lafayette offers us the talent, infrastructure and policy environment we need to ramp up quickly and operate with efficiency,” he said. “We’re building aresilient, future-focused U.S. supply chain, and Louisiana gives us the foundation to

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vital for developing professional skills like critical thinking and communication in young people.

“The arts also help to improve academic performance and school attendance —atrue win-win for schools and students,”said

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insteadcreate opportunity for yourself.

These colorful cards are now available at all library locations and will be available as long as supplies last Patrons can also purchase shirts featuring Bernard’s design. Shirts areavailable to buy online from

MOVING

“Since thattime, wehave made significant progress, significantprogress. While Iknow it’sreal easy to throw popcorn from thestands and it’seasy to make criticisms when you’renot on the ground,I will tell you that this incident is aunique incident.Itfalls betweenregulatory bodies,” Landry said at Tangipahoa Parish government offices in Amite.

of the state, he said. He also defendedEPA’s work, saying the agency and itscontractorshave removed 4milliongallons of oily material and sped up theremoval rate from 85,000 gallons per day to 175,000 gallons per day

Scott Mason, EPAadministrator for theregion that includes Louisiana, saidthe more than 300 EPAcontractors andemployees have the funds theyneed to finish thework

Though he offered no timeline for its completion, Mason said thecleanup of theoily material in the Tangipahoa River and nearby privateponds is about 75% finished.

“The funds are secure. There is no threat, and there will not be athreat,” Mason said.

Mason announcedthat theEPA hadbegun bringingadditional equipment this week andwas shifting itscleanup methods to quicken the work. That included adding more skimmers, marsh buggies, waste storage tanks, boom and disposal sources.

Mason added thatone shift in cleanup tactics will be to begin removing theoiled vegetation that surrounds the ponds.That change came atthe request

do exactly that.”

Said Ryan Case, DMRcofounder and head of U.S. operations: “This isn’tjust about production —it’s aboutaccess. Beinglocated in Louisiana gives us a strong logistics footprint to serveboth U.S.and internationalclients. We’reeliminating leadtime issues and delivering next-dayfulfillment for many of our U.S. customers.”

Stateofficials offered DMRanincentivespackage that features thecomprehensive workforcedevelopment solutionsofLED FastStart anda$1million performance-basedgrant for leasehold improvements and equipment costs contingent upon meetinginvestmentand employment targets.

DMR is also expectedto participateinthe state’s

Schumacher. He added, “Arts integration enriches our students’ educational experience, supports academic success, and nurtures the creative potential of every child. This collaboration reflectsour commitment toproviding high-quality,well-rounded learning opportunitiesfor each andevery student in Iberia Parish.”

IberiaParish schoolswill

Parish Ink

First-time library cards are issued at no cost. Those who already have alibrary card but want to get aColette Bernard-designedone can purchase areplacement card for just $1.

Formoreinformation about howtosign up for a library card, visit any of the branches of the Lafayette PublicLibraryinpersonor call the information desk at (337) 261-5765.

Theagencyhas also setupsystems designedtocollect rainrunoff from Smitty’sand contain waste in private ponds,keeping it from continuing to flowinto the Tangipahoa River Crews arealsoworking downstreamtoclean up oily pockets alongbanks while booms contain oily runoff and have come close to clearing ahandful of upper portions of the river Residentscriticize cleanup

Last month, EPAofficials had said$39 million in federal Superfund andClean WaterAct money wasset aside but more would be needed.Smitty’sisnot financing the EPA-ledwork for now,but remains liable for thecost, agency officials have said.

It was notimmediately clear how much money the EPAhad on Wednesday

The federal government shutdownbegan Wednesday after Democrats and Republicanswere unableto reach acontinuing spending agreement

According to The Associated Press, an estimated 750,000 federal employees were expected to be furloughed, including from theEPA,though excepted employees who protect life

High Impact Jobs and Industrial TaxExemption programs. It will use about 10,000 square feet of the 90,000-square-foot facility, and renovations are underway with production slated to begin by the end of the year

The building,which last housedThe Reptile Tannery of Louisiana,whichbought andtannedalligator hides, was soldinMarch to a groupled by Lafayettebusinessman Lyle J. Theriot.

Thebuilding was often listed as aplace for tourists to visitinLafayette. It closed its Lafayette operationsjust over ayear ago.

“Creatingmorethan500 jobswill bring real opportunities for ourfamilies, friends andneighbors,” Lafayette Mayor-President Monique Bouletsaid. “By

also have access to additional classroom sessions, professional development for teachers,and programs such as Poetry OutLoud, Play It Again, Virtual Art Studio, and field trips to the ACA in downtown Lafayette. Iberia Parish is the fifth parishtojoin this growing regional initiative, following Lafayette,St. Landry Vermilionand St. Martin parishes.

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to serve more than 500 children through the Angel Tree program this Christmas will still continue. Volunteers can register to ring bells this Christmas to help meet seasonal fundraising goals of $65,000. “Every donated item, ev-

ery ringingshift, andevery sponsored kettlelocation helps keep critical services within reach for individuals and families in crisis,” said Dupree. Areopening date will be announcedonce anew site is selected and build-out is confirmed.

Email Ja’kori Madison at jakori.madison@ theadvocate.com

andproperty cancontinue working.

Landry and Mason joined state DepartmentofEnvironmental QualitySecretary Courtney Burdette andParish President Robby Miller,amongothers, to detail effortstoclean up millionsofgallons of oily wastethatran off into theTangipahoa River and nearby privateponds after Smitty’scaught fire Aug. 22.

Themassive fire near Roseland burnedatleast one parishfire truck and sent alarge, black plume over arural corner of the parish, dropping soot on residents andrequiring a 1-mile evacuation zone.

TheEPA hassaid soot was reported 15 miles away from Smitty’s. The firewas not fully extinguished until Sept.8

The lubricants and plasticbottle plant had millions of gallons of motor oil, lube oil, mineralspirits,chain saw oil, gasoline, alkylategas, glycol, urea, antifreeze,phosphoricacid and other chemicals and hydrocarbons, according to acompany inventory EPA shared.

Some landownersstill worry that theEPA isn’t moving fastenough.

Businessman Joey Lombardo owns land that contains twoofthe ponds that received significant runoff from Smitty’s. Lombardo said he is worried theoily removal could take weeks longer,leaving his and others’ ponds susceptible to a majorinflux of rainfallthat could overcome specialized dams EPAbuilt to prevent oily waste from escaping.

updatinganexisting facility,DMR Technologiesis reinvesting in part of our community while keeping costs low.This is the kind of project that helps Lafayette grow,diversify our

“The cleanup is slow and frankly putting the environment at risk of further harm,”hesaid. Officialsciteprogress

EPAofficials countered that they’ve cut oily waste levels in oneofthose ponds by more thana footand are making progress in each of the four thathavereceived the vast majority of the oily runoff from Smitty’s.

Adam Adams, EPAincident commander and federal on-scene coordinator, addedthatwater levelsin the ponds arelow due to the lack of rain.

“So, we can handle abig rainfall on any of these ponds and not worry about it getting to the river,” Adams said.

He saidthe majorityof the runoff from Smitty’s wound up in the ponds, whichinitially prevented muchofitfrom reaching the river.

As aresult, he said, the ponds have avariety of runofffrom Smitty’s,including probably foam-containingfire water. Some of that foam had PFAS,known as “forever” chemicals.

He said testing of the pond waterhas notbeen completedyet,however

Some small pockets along the river have proven timeconsuming to clean due to the need for landowner approval, he said.

“But once we get on the river,wecan take the airboatsand go up allthe way up anywhere we need to go,” Adams said.

David J. Mitchellcan be reached at dmitchell@ theadvocate.com.

economy andcontinue to stay on thecutting edge of technology.”

Email Adam Daigle at adaigle@theadvocate. com.

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or statescholarship payments,” the statement said. “Wehave asked institutions to extend payment deadlines to minimize any disruptions to education.”

The statementraisedseveral unanswered questions, including whetherthe disruption wasdue to acyberattack and whether students’ and families’ personal data was compromised. Agency staffers areanalyzing the outage “to determine what, if any,information was involvedinthe incident,”the statement said.

ABoardofRegents spokespersonsaidhecould notanswerfollow-up questions.

Thetimingofthe statement also raised questions. LOSFAbegan experiencing technical difficulties at least three days earlier,according to aMonday morning Facebook post. And forseveral days, the agency’swebsite hassaidthatstaffers “are unable to answer phone calls, emails, or assist customers at this time.”

Somefamilies have been alarmed by the extended outage.

Kayne Pierce, whoput money in Louisiana’sSTART programtohelppay forhis children’scollege costs, said he hasn’tbeen able to reach anyone at LOSFAoraccess the STARTwebsite for several days.

“My concern is that there was acyberattack or something like that,” he said. “For it to have been three days without any updates is very concerning.”

Email Patrick Wall at patrick.wall@theadvocate. com.

SPORTS

Deal securesSaints’ future

The immediate future of theNew Orleans Saints is secure.

The Saints are staying where they belong —inNew Orleans —for at least another decade.

The new lease signed by Gov.Jeff Landry and Saints ownerGayle Benson on Thursday will ensure the Saints rep the fleur de listhrough 2035 and perhaps longer

The new accord is one of those rare winwins. The state reduced costsand secured

Johnson brings new perspective to Cajuns

BY KEVIN FOOTE Staff writer

New UL women’sbasketball assistant coach Temeka Johnson never imagined she’d become acoach once her playing days were over The former LSUAll-American point guardand WNBA Rookie of theYearplayed 12 seasons of professional basketball in the U.S. and Europe. When her career ended,Johnson said she heard acalling shehad never even considered.

“I actually never said it to be honest ” Johnson said of wantingtobeacoach. “I have astrong faith and God toldmethathe needed me to coach. Iwas like, ‘Nah, this really can’tbeGod that I’mhearing.’ Then he said,‘Ineed youtogotohighschool,’ and Isaid,‘OK, this definitely hastobethe Devil.’ Iknow for afact this can’tbewhat I’m hearing.”

So the New Orleans native began coaching at McKinley High in Baton Rouge, before winning two state championships at John Curtis in her hometown.

“It turned out that, of course, he was right,” Johnson said. “When Igot the opportunity to go to college at Western Kentucky, it was at that point that Iunderstoodthat Ineeded to take that step. If Iwould have retired and went straighttocollege, Iwould have assumed the college kids werehow we were when we were in college and Iwould havehad ahard time being able toreach them and meet them where they were.” JohnsonplayedatLSU from2001-05 after astandout career at Bonnabel High.

“Thatallowed me to have an understandingthat those kids that Ijustleftare the kids that Ihave now,” Johnson said.“So that helped me in that aspect and taught me you can’t skip the processes.”

Understanding her callinginlife wasn’t a new concept for Johnson.

“My grandmother wasaneducator,” she said. “I can remember when Iwas getting better contracts, Itried to gether to retire, because Iknew that she was tired.” Her grandmother, though, declined the

greater protections for taxpayers, while locking down thecity’sprized NFL franchise for another decade and (likely) landing another Super Bowl for thecity

TheSaints, meanwhile, maintain oneofthe most user-friendly leases in professional sports that allows them to remain competitivewith their big-market peers for theforeseeable future. After months of intense and often con-

tentiousnegotiations, harmonyreigns.

For now Beyond 2035, all bets are off. Nothing is certain, including who owns and operates theteam and where it plays.

The new deal has four five-year options that could extend the lease another two decades. Butthe Saintsown the right to execute the options, so theoretically they —oranew owner —could leave in 2035 or 2040 or 2045, etc. Nothing the Saints have said or done sug-

gests they’d do so. Owner Gayle Benson and team president Dennis Lauscha are NewOrleans natives, as are manyofthe club’sother top executives. They’ve vowed to keep the team here foraslong as she owns the team and have invested hundreds of millions locally as ashow of their invested interests. Nevertheless, the reality of the situation is the 78-year-old Benson will be approaching 90 when the 10-year extension ends, and, according to the terms of her succession plan, the team will eventually have to

ä See DUNCAN,

BY LUKE JOHNSON Staff writer

The play featured heavy personnel, misdirection, solid blocking acrossthe boardand some spectacularplaymaking in theopenfield— allelements of agood rushing offense. And, forthe mostpart, those wereall things the Saints did frequently against Buffalo.

NewOrleans used heavy personnel —with two or more tightends on the field —on12oftheir 34 rushing attempts. In 12 personnel (one running back and two tight ends), the Saints averaged 9.1 yards per carry,with six of their nine attempts gaining at least 5yards.

The first New Orleans Saints touchdown last week against the Buffalo Bills was asign of things to come. The Saints lined up under center withtwo tight ends to the left of their formation. Rookie Moliki Matavao motioned across the formation andperformed akick-out block to the right after the snap. Theother tight end, Jack Stoll, followed him after the snap, only to curlthe block back through the middle where therun wasintended to go. Every offensive lineman gothis hands on aplayer and turned him away from the play.Itwas up to Kendre Miller to do therest. Miller made defensive back Taron Johnson miss in the hole and got to the second level. He slipped out of an ankletackle by safety Cole Bishop andbusted through atackle attempt by corner Tre’Davious White, rumbling into the end zone foran18-yard touchdown.

BY REED DARCEY Staff writer

Kickoff was only minutes away when LSU’stop young offensive tackle learned that he’dbemaking his first career start on the road against an SEC defense.

YetCariusCurne held his own.The fourstarfreshman allowed only one quarterback pressure,according to Pro Football Focus, in theNo. 13 Tigers’ loss to Ole Miss, even though he was thrown ontothe fieldatthe last minuteinplace of Weston Davis —the starting right tackle who suffered abroken nose and aconcussion in pregame warmups.

“(Curne) reminded me of Emery Jones as atrue freshman,”coach Brian Kelly said on Wednesday That’slofty praise from Kelly.AtLSU, Jones was athree-year starter and an AllSECtackle before he becameathird-round NFLDraft choice of theBaltimore Ravens. He joined theTigers as afour-star recruit andstarted 12 gamesasafreshman, blocking well enough to find himself on acouple true-freshmanAll-America teams by the end of the 2022 season.

“Ifyou remember Emery,” Kellysaid, “technically he was notvery sound, but he was fighting for dear life and was really active. Had alot of hustle errors, but he’s

hustling and playing physical.

“It’sjust hard to be atechnician at this point.” But Curne can still use his raw strength and size to his advantage. In his three appearances this season, PFF has charted only one hit, one hurry and twopressures for Curne across his 57 pass-blocking snaps. Davis,incomparison, hasallowed11hurries and 14 pressures on 150 pass-blocking reps. No other LSU lineman has given up morethan five pressures or nine hurries. How was Curne able to succeed so early?

2p.m.

5:30

6p.m.

6:30 p.m.

MEN’S COLLEGE SOCCER

7p.m. Pittsburgh

7p.m.

9p.m.

6p.m.

7p.m.

11 a.m.KornFerry:ComplianceGOLF

1p.m.PGA Tour Champions GOLF

3p.m. PGATour:Sanderson FarmsGOLF

6p.m. LPGA Tour:LOTTE GOLF

HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL

7p.m. Lutcher atVandebilt Cox4

NBA PRESESON

4:30 a.m. Melbourne vs. NewOrleans NBATV

9p.m.Phoenix at L.A. LakersNBATV NHLPRESEASON

6p.m.Buffalo at Pittsburgh NHLN MEN’S SOCCER

2p.m.Fulham at AFC BournemouthUSA

5:45 p.m.New Zealand vs.Japan FS2

5:55 p.m.Egypt vs.Chile FS1 WNBA FINALS

7p.m.PhoenixatLas VegasESPN

BY MARK ANDERSON

AP sportswriter

LAS VEGAS Las Vegas and Phoenix faced serious questions during theregular seasonabout whether they were championship material, then came dangerously close to being forced to clean out their lockers before the WNBA Finals.

The second-seeded Aces were a Jackie Young follow shot away from losing to Seattle in the opening round and thenwere extendedto overtime of Game 5byanIndianateamwith more stars watching thanplaying.

The No. 4Mercury found themselves down 20 points to Minnesota and aprobable 2-0 semifinals series deficit to the league’stopseeded team.

But some way,somehow,both teams made it to the best-of-seven championship series, whichopens Friday,and those postseason escapes leave two opponents that aren’tlikely to back down regardless of the situation. The Aces are -125 series favorites, according to BetMGM Sportsbook.

Las Vegas’ pathtothe finals has been anything but smooth.The Aces needed Young’srebound shot to beatthe Storm in the deciding Game 3first round. Then they were taken thedistancebya Fever team thatwent intothe playoffs without players such as Caitlin Clark and Sophie Cunningham, lost Kelsey Mitchell to injury in Game 5and playedOTwithout Aliyah Bostonaftershe fouled out

But now they’re here.

“We’re battle tested,”Acespoint guard Chelsea Gray said. “Each series was completely different, but they were challenges. I’m proud of theway we responded to those challenges.”

TheMercury showed theirown mettle after falling behind 59-39 with 5:45 left in the third quarter of theirGame 2semifinalseries against Minnesota. They rallied to force overtime and win 89-83 and stunthe Lynx to makethe se-

ries 1-1. Phoenix then won the following two games at home, going againsta Lynx team without star Napheesa Collier in what became thedecider after shewas injured toward the end of Game 3.

“I think (the comeback) speaks volumes to the team and howwe staycomposed and go on runs and ride the waves,” Mercury starforwardAlyssa Thomassaid. “It’sthe same in the finals. It’sgoing to be a hard-fought battle, atough series Youdon’tknow what each game is going to bring.”

Historyonthe line

No matter which team wins, that sidewill claim of piece of WNBA history Las Vegas, which won titles in 2022 and 2023, is hoping to becoming the second team to win at least threechampionships in four years

The Houston Comets in 1997-2000 won the league’sfirst four titles Phoenix hopestoadd to its trophy haulfrom2007,2009and2014.Should theMercury prevail, they wouldtie

the Comets,Storm and Lynx for the most WNBA championships.

Regular-season series downplayed

The Aces took threeoffour from theMercury in the regular season, but both sides said these are different circumstances.

“Playoff basketball, man,” Gray said.“It’s totallydifferent than regular season.”

Thomas said Phoenix’spostseason success showed its seeding, which was based on the regular season, was not relevant.

Finals format uncertainty

This is thefirst time the WNBA Finals will be abest-of-seven series. It had been abest-of-five. Neitherside is certainwhatto expect from what could be the longest finals seriesinleague history

“It’s exciting being apart of the first one,” Thomas said. “Atthe sametime, you don’tknow what a best-of-seven brings, but nothing changes. Youstill approach it the sameway.”

Texasbeginsdauntingawaystretch againstFlorida

BY MARK LONG AP sportswriter

GAINESVILLE, Fla. No. 9Texas

is about to find out what it’sreally like to play on the road in the Southeastern Conference.

The Longhorns travel to one of the league’smost daunting venues when they openSEC play at Florida on Saturday.It’s the first of eight consecutive conference games for quarterback Arch Manning andCo., with the next four coming away from home.

“Everybodybetter buckle up,” coach Steve Sarkisiansaid. “There are no gimmies.”

Texas(3-1) opened theseason with a14-7 loss at then-No. 3Ohio State, getting more than atasteof road hostilities. But playing four in arow away from home —the Longhorns are the only SEC team dealt that kind of slate in 2025— is sure to present new challenges and provide plenty of adversity

“It’sgoing to be aroad-warrior mentality,and we always talk about that,” Texassafety Michael Taaffe said. It begins with the Longhorns’ first visit to Gainesville since 1940. They wonthat one 26-0 but probably shouldn’texpect the returntrip to be as smooth.

Although the Gators (1-3, 0-1 SEC) have dropped threea row askid that has coach Billy Napier back on the proverbial hot seat —they played wellenoughdefensively to win all three. And they have ahistory of rattling quarter-

backs in the Swamp.

Texaswon all three of its SEC road games in 2024, its first yearin theleague, butthosecame against Vanderbilt andlongtime rivals Arkansasand TexasA&M. The Longhorns have four trueconference road games this season,including atrip to 12th-rankedGeorgia next month.

Florida is 15-7 at homeunder Napier but did win its last two against ranked teams, beating LSU andMississippi down the stretch last season

TheGatorsneedsophomore

quarterback DJ Lagway to play better to improve their chances as 61/2-point home underdogs, according to BetMGM Sportsbook

Lagway,who missed most of the year while dealing with various injuries,has looked rusty in his return and less thancomfortable in the pocket.

“Everygame you got achip on your shoulder,” Lagway said. “Especiallyright now(with)how the world’s counting us out. So we all got achip on our shoulder to go out there and compete, let it loose and have fun.

Cleanupneededfor Longhorns

Texas is averaging 81/2 penalties agame, which ranks among the worst in the nation and the SEC. Theflags proved particularly costly at Ohio State and have dogged the Longhorns on both

Brehm shares first-round lead in Dunhill Links debut ST.ANDREWS,Scotland Ryan Brehm made his Dunhill Links Championshipdebut with a63 on the only course he didn’tplay in practice to share the lead. Tyrrell Hatton, Tommy Fleetwood and aRyder Cup quartet of stars played on fumes and held up quite nicely Thursday

The other surprise from the opening round was Dustin Johnson with a64atCarnoustie that left the former world No. 1just one shot outof the lead in his return to this tournament forthe first time in 13 years. Hatton and RobertMacIntyre at 66, and Fleetwood and Matt Fitzpatrick at 67, all received a rousing cheer at Carnoustie to celebrateEurope’sfifth road victoryinthe Ryder Cup.

AirForce-Navy game still on despite shutdown

The AirForce-Navy football game will go on as planned in Annapolis, Maryland, on Saturday,but that doesn’tmean the athletic departments at the service academies are unaffected by thegovernment shutdown.

The Naval Academy Athletic Associationisa nonprofitthathas acted independently since1891, limiting the impact of government actions on Navy’sathletics.Scott Strasemeier, Navy’ssenior associate athletic director,said some coaches whoare civilians and are paid by the governmentare affected, though none are with the football program.

Air Force is feeling it as well. Emails to Troy Garnhart, the associate athletic director forcommunications, prompt an automated response saying he is “out of the office indefinitely due to the government shutdown.”

Gauff to faceAnisimova in China Opensemifinal BEIJING Reigning champion Coco Gauff reached the semifinalsofthe China Open forthe thirdstraight year after beating hard-hitting Eva Lys6-3, 6-4 on Thursday

The second-seeded American was troubled on her serve and conceded seven break-pointchances in Beijing. But Lys, aGerman player seekingher first career WTAtitle, could convertonly three of themand dropped herown servefive times against the French Open champion “She’satough opponent, she hit someincredible shots on the run,” said Gauff, who is seeking her 11th career title. “I wastrying my best to stay aggressive.”

Gauff next facesfellow American Amanda Anisimova, theWimbledon andU.S.Openrunner-up.She ralliedtobeat sixth-seeded Jasmine Paolini6-7 (4), 6-3, 6-4 in atight match lasting nearly three hours.

Suns,

Mercuryannounce arena naming rights deal

sides of the ball since.

Gators turn to Dallas

Florida receiver Dallas Wilson, a6-foot-3, 213-pound freshman and one of the team’stop recruits, is scheduled to make his collegiatedebut after missing amonth with aleft foot injury

TheTampa native caught 10 passesfor 195 yards and two touchdowns in the spring game and could provide alift foran offense thatscored16, 10 and 7pointsinconsecutive losses.

“He’sthe real deal,” Florida linebacker Myles Graham said. “He’s out there running and jumping like he was never hurt.”

Texaswaiting forpassrush

Preseason All-American Colin Simmons got his first solo sack of the season on the first playagainst SamHouston StateonSept.20, then didn’tget another.Simmons notcheda team-leading nine sacks as afreshman in 2024 but has been less effective though four games this season.

Texasranks tied for eighthin theSEC with 11 sacks.

RB depthcould be an issue

Florida will be withoutbackup running back Ja’Kobi Jackson, clearing apath forJadan Baugh to get more work. Texas likely will be without running back CJ Baxter(hamstring),who was listed as doubtful, and maybe co-starter

PHOENIX ThePhoenixSunsand Phoenix Mercury have announced a$115 million, 10-year naming rights partnership with United Wholesale Mortgage thatwill rename theteam’sarenathe Mortgage Matchup Center MatIshbia is the owner of the Suns and Mercury and is also the CEO of United Wholesale Mortagage. The45-year-old took over the as CEO in 2013, guiding its transformation into one of the top mortgage lenders in the U.S. “I’m extremelyexcited about this partnership as it represents twoorganizations that have natural alignment and ashared commitment to excellence,” Ishbia said in astatement.

U.S. increasing embassy staff to handle WC fans

WASHINGTON TheState Departmentwill increase staffing at certain U.S.embassies and consulates to accommodateanexpected majorjump in visa applicationsfrom soccer fans wanting to attend World Cup matches in the United States next year The department said Thursday it will send hundreds of additional consularofficers to “designated countries” to handle the demand forvisa interviews. The numberofstaffers and the countries where theywill go have yet to be determined because the 48-teamfield forthe 2026 World Cup has not been finalized. Tickets forthe tournament hosted by U.S., Canada and Mexico went on sale Wednesday amid concerns over the Trumpadministration’scrackdown on migration and temporary visasthatofferpermission to enter the United States.

offer and the reason why stuck with Johnson over the years.

“She said, ‘There’s always one There’salways one you’re going to be abletoreach,’”Johnson recalled, “There’salways one that’s going to need something (more than) the rest of them thatyou’re going to recognize it and most peoplewon’t.’

“So Ikind of tookthat and thought Ijust need to do abetter job of meeting them where they are.”

That’sgoing to be quite atask for

DUNCAN

Continued from page1C

be sold because she has no heirs.

As the executors of her estate, Lauscha, general manager MickeyLoomisand longtime director of communicationsGreg Bensel have been charged with overseeing the sale. Benson has stipulated that they pick an owner who agrees to keep the team in New Orleans, but there’sno way to ensure that happens beyondan ironclad legal lease.

“I am never going to leave,” Benson quipped during theceremony

Understandably,you might be wondering why the Saints wouldn’tagree to an ironclad long-term lease if they are so committed to keeping theteam in NewOrleans. Or why state officialsdidn’tlock in the Saints for 30 years the way Buffalo and Jacksonville did recently withthe Bills and Jaguars?

Twocomplicating factors withered the state’s leverage and prevented officialsfrom securing alonger-term deal, according to sourcesclose to the negotiations. Because the lease is for arenovated stadium rather thana new one, Saints and NFL officials were hesitant to tie the club down toa 50-year-old stadium.

While a$560 million renovation of the Superdome was completed just last year,itstill pales in comparison to the $2 billion new stadiums being constructed in Buffalo andNashville.

When the Bills and Bears move into new stadiums in the next few years, the Superdome will be the second-oldest stadium in theNFL behind only Lambeau Field in Green Bay,Wisconsin.

Equally if not more important, the eventual sale of the club looms over all future decisions. Understandably,the NFL wants flexibility for the future owners. Skeptics would say they also wanttoincrease the sale price of theteam, and an open-ended lease dealwith asmall relocation fee would cer-

LSU

Continued from page1C

Start withhis physicaltools and talent. Curneislistedat6-foot-5, 320 pounds.Asa recruit, according to 247Sports composite rankings, he was atop-100 prospect, one of the nation’s three best interior offensive linemen andthe best player from Arkansas

“The strongest freshman Ihave ever seen,” redshirt sophomore left tackle Tyree Adamssaid in August. “The strongest,the fastest.He’sbeen great. Hisdevelop-

Johnsonand the rest of the Cajuns’ coachingstaff under coach Garry Brodhead this upcoming season.

Not asingle player whoplayed aminute or took ashot for theCajuns last season is returning.

“The good thing is that I’m new too,”Johnson said. “I don’treally recall anything from last year either.Soasmuchasitcan be scary it can also be ablessing in disguise, because you’re coming in and it’sa clean slate.

“So some of the things youmay have gotten awayfrombecause the kids were accustomed to you, you have to go back to the drawing board and you get to implement things how you want to do it Now it’s back to teaching

everything from scratch and making sure everybody’sonthe same page.

Johnson’sfirststeps with theprogram began with learning more about Brodhead —both the man and the coach.

“Sure, Ilikethe funside of him, but if Ican be alittlesentimental, Ilike the heart thatcoach has,” Johnson said of Brodhead. “He has aheart for people. Sometimes you can get away from that with the game of basketball, because everybody gets so caught up with thewins and the losses.

“Hedoesn’tallowthattoovershadow theconnection that he has with thecommunity and the connection he has withpeople. That

tainly bolster the asking price.

Stateofficials added legal language to the new deal to tryto deter thenew ownersfrom relocating to another city,but contracts only go so far. History has shown, where there’sa will for an NFL owner to relocate, there is away.The Chargers and Rams both broke leases tomovetoLos Angeles. The$378 million relocation fee didnot stop the Raiders from moving to Las Vegas from Oakland.

Ultimately,the future of the Saints rests in thehands of Benson’strustees and their NFL overlords.

TheNFL and its ownersalso have arole in approving any ownership transition,which would require avote of support by at least three-quarters of theowners.

“The significant investment by the team and Gayle Benson was done so purposely to position the team, city and statesothat any future new ownerwould see and reap the benefits of an updated stadium with surrounding fan facing amenities that make keepingthe team in New Orleansattractive,” longtime Saints spokesmanGreg Bensel. “… Our goal

ment is going through theroof, and Ifeel likethe sky’sthe limit forhim,and he canliterally play all over thefield.”

Curneonlystartedagainst Ole Miss thanks to an unusual series of events. Ordinarily,LSU would’ve turned to sixth-offensivelineman DJ Chester in a pinch. But he was suspendedfor the first halfofthe game against OleMiss because officials had flagged him for targeting the week prior in the Tigers’ win over Southeastern Louisiana. Now Curnemighthave achance to stay on the field, in large part because twostarters on LSU’sof-

remainstobehere long-term.”

It’s not the Benson-led Saints whom fans and New Orleanians should be concerned about, though. As we learned from the Cleveland Browns relocation to Baltimore, any NFLteam,even beloved, wellsupported ones, can leave.

“I don’tthink Mrs. Benson wants to leave, the state does not want them to leave and Idon’t thinkthe NFL does either,” said Rob Vosbein, thechairman of the LouisianaStadium and Exposition District and lead negotiator for thestate on the deal.

As we all know,things can change. Tenyears is alifetime in professional sports. Tenyears ago, the Rams were in St. Louis, theChargers were in San Diego and the Raiders were in Oakland.

Let’shope the new owner is someonewith local ties and/or interests. Someone who understands they are just astewardfor theteam and are protecting the asset for the city,asBenson said. The Saints don’tjust belong in New Orleans. They belong to New Orleans.

Email Jeff Duncan at jduncan@theadvocate.com

fensive line arebattlinginjuries Davis (concussion) could miss LSU’shome matchup with South Carolina. The same is true for left guard PaulMubenga, whosuffered ahigh ankle sprain in the loss to the Rebels.

Either absence could open more snaps for Curne, thefreshmanwho impressedKelly in hisfirstcareer start.

“We’re going to takewhat we get from him,” Kelly said, “and that’s hard play, physical play. He can movesome people.”

Email Reed Darcey at reed. darcey@theadvocate.com.

partiswhat Iappreciate most about him so far.”

Then there’sthe basketball side of Brodhead, who is adefensive coach from Day 1and Johnson is focused more on offense.

“I told him, ‘We’re going to have to share that timecoach —we’re going to have to finda happy medium,”Johnson laughed. “I think we’rereaching that point right now. We satdownand madesure, ‘How much timeyou need on defense, because this is howmuch time Ineedonoffense.’

“It’sworking out extremely well. It’sjustabout making sure we keep thegirls as fine-tuned as possible and notoverbear themwith onething or the other.Wefound a

SAINTS

Continued from page1C

The Saints were under cen-

teron55.9% of their run plays, easily theirhighest rate of the season (previous high: 27.6%), apivot coach Kellen Moore said was intentional in order to allow New Orleans to usecadence to its advantage.

Notably, New Orleansalsoused motion on aseason-high 79.4% of its run plays, averaging 6.1 yards per carry on such plays.

“With the motion, it felt like a little bit of agame-plan opportunity that we felt very good about,”Moore said.“Felt like it was productive forus.”

When the game wasdone, the Saintshad racked up aseasonbest 189 yards on the ground. It was what the Saints running game wassupposed to look like when Moore and the assistant coaching staff designed it this offseason.

“This should looklike basketball on grass,” run-game coordinator T.J. Paganetti said about the rush offense this summer.“It’s not, ‘We’re going to go out there and do calculus on the field and try and come up with the perfect play.’

Theplays kind of need to solve themselves on the run, and playersalso have to have tools in their toolbox to solve things on therun.”

Yes, but: Miller saidthe Saints made abit of aphilosophical change in the lead-up to the Bills game.

“Weswitchedupour run schemebecause we weren’t(getting results) in the first three games,” Miller said. “Wewent to more zone runs.I feel like that’s what we’re good at; zone, outside zone. …You could definitely seeit on display Sunday.”

Under offensive coordinator Klint Kubiaklast season, the Saints almost exclusively used zone running schemes, where theoffensivelinemoves in sync along a“track” after the snap, blocking an area rather than a

balance so far.”

There’scertainlyalifetime in basketball that Johnson can teach hernew players andevencolleagues during this transition season.

“If somebody would have told me that allofthatwould have taken place, Idefinitelywouldn’t have believedit,” Johnson said of her career in the sport. “Once Igot under her (LSUcoach Sue Gunter), she said, ‘Dream big andworkhard. Idreamed, but Idon’tknowthat Idreamed as big as reality hascome at this point.”

Email KevinFoote at kfoote@theadvocate.com.

specific playerorgap. Theidea was to be more multiple this year, according to offensive line coach Brendan Nugent,utilizing both gap and zone schemes.

But because the offense skewed so heavilytowardzone schemes last season, much of the early offensive installintrainingcamp focused on gap-schemeruns.

“Weput aheavy emphasis on gapschemes sincewe’ve gotten in pads, because they didn’treally do it last year,” Nugent said early in training camp.

The shift toward more zone runs last week isn’tnecessarily permanent. The Saints intend to tailortheir rushingattack to the opponentthey play in agiven week. The right way to attack the Bills won’tbethe sameagainst this week’sopponent, the New York Giants.

“From an outside zone perspective, we probably had ahigher percentage last week, andthere were obviously some positives there, so we recognize that,” Moore said. “But at the same time, (the Giants present) some really big challenges as well.”

New York has one of the best defensive fronts in football, anchored by three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence. He is bookended by the NFL’s sack leader,Brian Burns, as well as this year’sNo. 3pick, Abdul Carter,and 2022 No. 5 overall pick Kayvon Thibodeaux. Despite that talent up front, the Giants have had atough time against the run this season. They have allowed an NFL-worst +.18 Expected Points Added(EPA) per rush while yielding the thirdmostyards before contact per attempt (2.04).

Last week,Chargersrookie running back Omarion Hampton racked up 128 rushing yards on just 12 carries against NewYork, includinga54-yardtouchdownrun. The Saints are tied with the Tampa BayBuccaneersfor the NFL’s 10th-best rushing attack This week should show whether the arrow is pointing up.

Top of the line

Notre Dame RB Bourgeois one of best in Pios history

BY ERIC NARCISSE Staff writer

Over the years, the Notre Dame has had some exceptional running backs to lead their offense.

Through the first four games of this season, it appears Joachim Bourgeois is the next elite rusher in line.

“Last year, Joachim wasn’t the No. 1 guy,” Pioneers coach Lewis Cook said. “In fact, we rotated three different running backs last season. But Joachim has really come on this year.”

Bourgeois, who has helped the Pios get off to a 3-1 start, has rushed for 455 yards — sixth-most in the Acadiana area and three touchdowns on 69 carries.

“Joachim’s experience and endurance have really paid off for us,” Cook said. “It seems the later it gets into a game, the better Joachim runs.”

Cook, whose Pioneers travel to face the reigning Division II nonselect state champion Cecilia at 7 p.m. Friday, said Bourgeois running style make it difficult for opposing defenders.

“For whatever reason, defenses are having a hard time getting Joachim on the ground,” Cook said of the 5-foot, 165-pound senior “He’s quick, has the ability to make cuts, and he is strong. He’s just hard to get to the ground. Every once in a while, the first man will get lucky and get him down, but it isn’t very often.”

Cook said Bourgeois has the ability to maintain optimum speed when changing direction.

“Joachim is always going forward,” Cook said. “He can make a cut and not lose any speed. So instead of tackling him when he is slowing down, defenders have to tackle him while he is going full speed and that makes it hard to

Teurlings takes five-set marathon match over Westminster Christian

BY MIKE COPPAGE

Contributing writer

Coach Terry Hebert has been waiting for the Teurlings Catholic volleyball team to put it all together

The Rebels, who have been strong defensively, boast star setter Anna Claire Hebert, but their offense was inconsistent leading into Wednesday’s nondistrict game at Westminster Christian, which is No. 1 in the Division V power ratings.

“(LSU football coach) Brian Kelly said it perfectly,” Hebert said before the Rebels outlasted WCA in five sets (25-19, 18-25, 25-19, 23-25, 15-13). “He said they weren’t playing complementary football. We’re not playing complementary volleyball. The defense is keeping the ball off the floor, but we’re not putting it away We need to step up and swing with confidence.”

The Rebels took a step in that direction with four players combining for 55 kills. Hebert, a senior Northwestern State commitment who got her 2,000th career assist earlier this season, dished out 54 assists with 15 digs, two aces and two kills.

“I’ve been waiting for this group to do that,” coach Hebert said “Defensively, you saw what we can do. Our offense hasn’t been stepping up and helping them enough. Tonight, they did.”

Teurlings Catholic (14-8), rated No. 6 in Division II, snapped a four-game losing streak and handed WCA (18-5) its second loss in the past 15 matches.

“I feel like we have a very competitive team with a better chance of going further in the playoffs,” Anna Claire Hebert said. “My goal is to be the playmaker of the game, change tempo and build confidence every swing.”

Ava Hebert was dominant in the middle, finishing with 26 kills, seven digs and three blocks. Olivia Hebert, who scored the final point, added 15 kills, 17 digs, three

aces and a block Mya Leonard and Hannah Bergeron (27 digs) each had seven kills. Kate Trahan contributed 11 digs.

“In order to get it done, you have to be good in serve-receive,” said coach Hebert, who praised Olivia Hebert, Ava Hebert, Bergeron and libero Carsyn Fontenot (38 digs) Freshman Kallie Landry made her first appearance in the fifth set and served consecutive aces to give the Rebels the lead for good, a move coach Hebert credited to his wife and assistant coach, Meredith.

“I have to thank my wife for that one,” he said. “I asked her who we should put in to serve.”

For three years, AC Hebert racked up assists while sharing the court with another setter in a 6-2 offense. The Rebels have switched to a 5-1 to maximize her chances at distributing the ball.

“Coach trusted me with the opportunity to run the 5-1,” she said.

“It’s fun and interesting. I think every game we get better and learn new things. Coach giving me this opportunity has made me learn more about myself.”

The Rebels were No. 25 in the state in this week’s Varsity Sports Now volleyball rankings. WCA was No. 15.

tackle him.”

The task for the coaching staff is to not overuse Bourgeois so he will be close to 100% late in the season.

“We knew coming into this season that he would have to be the featured guy,” Cook said. “So we have been really trying not to overwork him early We try to rest him at some points, but when it is crunch time he’s getting the ball.”

Although Cook doesn’t know where Bourgeois ranks among all-time running backs at Notre Dame, he knows he’s among the best to play at the school.

“We have had some good running backs and some really good running backs over the years,” Cook said. “Some guys just have a knack for the running back position and Joachim is one of them When it comes to Joachim, he’s above that class that’s just good.”

Acadiana, Carencro encouraged with how QBs have progressed

BY MIKE COPPAGE

Contributing writer

Opponents of the Acadiana Wreckin’ Rams will have to prepare for two quarterbacks.

Coach Doug Dotson expects to use both junior Collin DiBetta and senior Ty Lamartina starting Friday at Sulphur (1-3, 0-1) in a District 5-3A contest.

“They’re both going to play,” Dotson said “We have a lot of weapons There are things Collin does good and things Ty does good. Ty definitely showed what kind of athlete he is on Friday.”

Lamartina was all over the field in last week’s 61-0 win at New Iberia, catching a touchdown, grading highly as a blocker at tight end and making plays on special teams.

“Ty played on every special teams,” Dotson said. “He’s so valuable as an athlete We scored a long touchdown because of his blocking on the perimeter He’s 6-foot, 195 pounds and a great blocker.”

Early in the first quarter the Rams got a punt return for a touchdown from DiBetta, who rushed for 32 yards on three carries and completed three passes for 41 yards and the touchdown to Lamartina.

“Collin ran the offense smoothly,” said Dotson, who had two 100yard rushers in Troy Kennerson and Syrian Joseph. “We’re going to play to both Collin and Ty’s strengths. Both are going to play special teams, receiver and quarterback.”

The Rams got welcome news this week when senior Travis Gallien’s eligibility was reinstated by the LHSAA. Gallien a transfer from Lafayette Renaissance, will be seeing his first action of the season.

“He gives us another weapon,” Dotson said. “Look, you put Gallien on one side and Ty or Collin on the other, and it will present matchup problems.”

Carencro’s Carson Gurzi has demonstrated why he’s the topranked sophomore quarterback in the state.

The 6-foot-2, 210-pounder has passed for 904 yards and eight touchdowns with only one interception as the Bears (2-2, 1-0) prepare to host New Iberia (0-4, 0-1) at 7 p.m. Friday

“I think Carson has been outstanding,” coach Gavin Peters said. “If there is a better word than outstanding, use that one.”

Peters got a good feeling after Gurzi’s performance in a preseason scrimmage against Westgate. “I used the term that we were playing in Iraq,” Peters said. “Carson spent the whole game in Iraq with bullets flying all over the place. They loaded up the box sent seven, eight and nine

SCOREBOARD

rushers, and he didn’t flinch. He’s special.”

Gurzi and senior wide receiver

Chantz Babineaux, who has broken numerous school passing and receiving records, have been dynamite as a tandem. Babineaux is first in the area and third statewide in receiving (25 catches for 562 yards, five touchdowns.) He caught all three of Gurzi’s touchdown passes in last week’s 63-42 win over Barbe.

“Carson has exceeded expectations by playing this well early,” Peters said. “He meets me every morning at 6:45 a.m. to game plan When we open the doors to our new facility, he’ll be there even earlier. He’s outstanding I knew he was a good football player when I first met him.”

Gurzi had added more than 100 yards rushing with a touchdown.

Free fun

This weekend, takeinFree FirstSunday, withadmission waived that dayatthe Louisiana Art&ScienceMuseum, Old State Capitol, Old Governors’ Mansion, Magnolia Mound Museum+ Historic Site, LSU Museum of Art, Cary Saurage Community Arts Center and LSU Center for River Studies.

On the rocks

Ahandkerchief discovered by a lovesick suitor adds up to hilarity

BY ROBINMILLER Staff writer

It was definitelyamistake when Winifred Edwards left her handkerchief behind at the dinner party,stirring delusions of love in Anthony Tailor Now she has aproblem. She’s not in love with Anthony or anyone else, for that matter. Besides, Anthony is needy Really needy And mom is pushy.She wants Winifred married and settled. So, what’salate 19th-century girl to do in atime when independent women aren’tthe norm? Well, the answercan befound at LSU’sShaver Theatrewhen LSU Theatre opens its 2025-26 season on Friday with playwright Maggie Smith’scomedy, “TheCourtship of Winifred Edwards.”

STAFF PHOTO By ROBINMILLER

From left, Jillian

is Charlotte, John Dunn is Victor and Treazure Jackson is Ottilie in LSU Theatre’sproduction of ‘The Courtship of WinifredEdwards.

Apremiereofsorts

The production will be akindof, sort-of debut of this play outside of its workshopped showat the TwoChairs theatercompany in Chicago. Now,this is asignificant landmark in the play’s journey to LSU’sstage, because the Chicagocompany wasfounded by LSU Theatre alumni

ä See 'WINIFRED', page 6C

‘THE COURTSHIPOF WINIFRED EDWARDS’

An LSU Theatre production Friday-Sunday, and WednesdayFriday, Oct. 8-10 and Sunday, Oct. 12; Sundayperformances at 2p.m., all other performances at 7:30 p.m. l ShaverTheatre, LSU Music and Dramatic Arts Building 4230 Dalrymple Drive l $22, adults; $17, faculty,staff and seniors; $9, students l (225) 578-3527 or https://www.lsu. edu/cmda/theatre/index.php

BY JAMI

GANZ

BACK TO THEROOTS

BY JOHN WIRT

Contributing writer

In its thirdyear,Federales Fest returns to Live Oak at Cedar Lodge this weekend.

Running fromnoonto11p.m.

SaturdayinLive Oak’scovered horse arena, the rain-or-shine event stars aSouthern-accented slate of national, regional and local musical acts. Gates open at noon and music starts at 1p.m. with Scenic Highway,abandofstudents fromBaton Rouge Music Studios.

This year’srootsy FederalesFest lineup offers country,rock ’n’ roll, funk and Americana music.General admissiontickets at $75and VIPtickets at $250 are available at federalesfest.com.

Previous FederalesFests presented outlaw countryand Americanamusic,but festival founder J. Hover hopes to broaden this

FEDERALES FEST

Noon to 11 p.m.Saturday l Live Oak at Cedar Lodge, 6300 Jefferson Highway l $75$250 l federalesfest.com

MUSICSCHEDULE

n 1P.M.-1:20 P.M.: Scenic Highway n 1:35 P.M.-2:20P.M.:

Newyork Daily News (TNS)

NEWYORK In out-of-thisworld news, Rick Moranisisreturning from decades of semi-retirement for a“Spaceballs” sequel. The 72-year-old “Ghostbusters” star —who has rarely appeared onscreen since the

1990s —will reprise his roleasDark Helmet in “Spaceballs 2,”which Amazonconfirmed last week was greenlit by its Amazon MGM Studios. Mel Brooks, who helmed the original 1987 “StarWars” spoof, will alsoreprisehis roles as President Skroob andYogurt, but is pass-

year’saudience through somemusical expansion. The 2025 lineup includes Texas-born performers Paul Cauthenand SamMorrow; NewOrleans’ master of the funky bass, George PorterJr.;Lafayette’s Zach Edwards and the Medicine; Dominick Michael; anda reunion of Baton Rouge’sCaptain Legendary Band. Hover describes the top-billed Paul CauthenasJohnny Cash on steroids.

“He’sashowstopper,” Hover said. “I can’twait forhim to bring the house down.” Originally from Tyler, Texas, Cauthen hitthe musicbusiness runningwiththe roots-rockband Sons of Fathers. Notedfor hisbig baritone voice, he unleashed asolo career with his 2016 album, “My Gospel.”

ing the directing torch to “Will &Harper” director JoshGreenbaum Daphne Zuniga, Bill Pullman and George Wynerwill also return forthe “Non-PrequelNonReboot Sequel Part Twobut with Reboot Elements Franchise Expansion Film,” which is currently in production and slated for a 2027 theatrical release.

KekePalmer and Anthony Carrigan are joining the intergalactic parody alongside Pullman’s son, “Thunderbolts*” star Lewis Pullman, and Josh Gad, who was brought on to co-write the script. “Parenthood” star Moranis,for his part, is returning from alongheld live-action hiatus, following

ä See MORANIS, page 6C

FRIDAY

LATIN MUSIC FESTIVAL: 200 Garfield St., Lafayette, 10 a.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Cane River Pecan Company Pie Bar, New Iberia, 5 p.m.

AMY AND KYLE: Adopted Dog Brewing, Lafayette, 6 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Jim Deggy’s, Lafayette, 6 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Naq’s-nDuson, Duson, 6 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Charley G’s, Lafayette, 6 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Prejean’s, Broussard, 6 p.m.

RIVER SMOOTH: SHUCKS!, Abbeville, 6:30 p.m.

JENNIFER KAYE & DAR-

RYL FONTENOT: Buck & Johnny’s, Breaux Bridge, 6:30 p.m.

HIGH NOTES FEATURING

GERALD GRUENIG & GEN-

TILLY ZYDECO: Chez La Fete, Lafayette, 7 p.m.

RUTHIE FOSTER: Acadiana Center for the Arts, Lafayette, 7:30 p.m.

SCOTT SEAN WHITE: NUNU Arts & Culture Collective, Arnaudville, 7:30 p.m.

AMIS DU TECHE: Hideaway on Lee, Lafayette, 8 p.m.

DREADLAND, CHRONEX, ALDER, ANTISLOW: Freetown Boom Boom Room, Lafayette, 8 p.m.

SUNKISSED, CARNELIAN, THE BAND WACK: Blue Moon Saloon, Lafayette, 8 p.m

LIVE MUSIC: The Barrel of Broussard, Broussard 8 p.m.

THE CARTOONS: Toby’s Lounge, Opelousas, 8:30 p.m.

THREE AM: Rock ’n’ Bowl, Lafayette, 9 p.m.

SATURDAY

GENO DELAFOSE & FRENCH ROCKIN’ BOOGIE: Buck & Johnny’s, Breaux Bridge, 8 a.m.

DON FONTENOT BAND: Fred’s, Mamou, 8 a.m.

CAJUN JAM: Moncus Park, Lafayette, 9 a.m.

SATURDAY MORNING JAM

SESSIONS: Savoy Music Center, Eunice, 9 a.m.

CAJUN JAM: Tante Marie, Breaux Bridge, 11 a.m.

CAJUN FRENCH MUSIC

JAM: Vermilionville,

Lafayette, 1 p.m.

LUKE HUVAL BAND:

Cypress Cove Landing, Breaux Bridge, 3 p.m.

JOHN WILSON & THE ZYDECO HOUSE ROCK-

ERS: Bayou Teche Brewing, Arnaudville, 4 p.m.

ADULT SIP & SPELL

SHOWDOWN: Adopted Dog Brewing, Lafayette, 5 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Jim Deggy’s, Lafayette, 6 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Prejean’s, Broussard, 6 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Charley G’s, Lafayette, 6 p.m.

SUGAR JAM FEATURING RAY BOUDREAUX & DJ RV: Sugar Mill Pond, Youngsville, 6 p.m.

KEN HOLLOWAY: SHUCKS!, Abbeville, 6:30 p.m.

TONY BRUCE & CLAS-

SIC COUNTRY: Buck & Johnny’s, Breaux Bridge, 6:30 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: The Tap Room, Youngsville, 6:30 p.m.

TET DUR: Pat’s Atchafalaya Club, Henderson, 7 p.m.

LAFAYETTE FAMOUS: AN IMPROV FUNDRAISER FOR KRVS: Cite des Arts,

THIS WEEKEND’S FAIRS & FESTIVALS

NOW THROUGH NOV. 7

FANFARE: various days and times, Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond. The university’s annual fall festival of the arts, humanities and social sciences is marking its 40th season as the university itself is in its yearlong 100th anniversary celebration. Music events, theatrical productions, lectures, dance concerts, the world premiere of the film “Southeastern 100,” Day of Latino Culture and more. For complete schedule, go to www columbiatheatre.org/fanfare

THROUGH SUNDAY

TANGIPAHOA PARISH FAIR: 12614

Arena Drive, Amite. A traditional fair with rides, food, a parade, livestock show, cooking contests and talent contests. tangifair.org.

SATURDAY

FALL

FESTIVAL: 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Denham Springs Antique Village, North Range Avenue. Hometown style festival offering more than 160 arts & crafts vendors, children’s activities, food, music, costume contest, special sales in stores. www.denhamspringsantiquedistrict.net/ds-antiquevillage-festival-information

ARTS FEST: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Perkins Rowe, Bluebonnet Boulevard at Perkins Road. Florida Street Blowhards, 10 a.m.-11 a.m.; Louisiane

By The Associated Press

Lafayette, 7:30 p.m.

POISSON ROUGE: Hideaway on Lee, Lafayette, 8 p.m.

GRAVE PROMISE FEATURING IAK & CHEATER PIPE: Freetown Boom Boom Room, Lafayette, 8 p.m.

BONIN & MSEIS, AVERY

COHEN GROUP, GENUINE

MUSTARD: Blue Moon Saloon, Lafayette, 8 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: The Barrel of Broussard, Broussard, 8 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Lakeview Park, Eunice, 8 p.m.

THE GROOVE UNIT: Toby’s Lounge, Opelousas, 8:30 p.m.

NIK-L BEER: Rock ’n’ Bowl, Lafayette, 9 p.m.

SUNDAY GLENN ZERINGUE: Whiskey & Vine, Lafayette, 11 a.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Tante Marie, Breaux Bridge, 11 a.m.

LES FRERES MICHOT: Prejean’s, Carencro, 11:30 a.m.

JAMBALAYA ACOUSTIC

MUSIC JAM: Tom’s Fiddle & Bow, Arnaudville, 12:30 p.m.

Vintage Dancers, 11 a.m.-noon; Pour & Paint with Painting and Pinot, 1 p.m.-3 p.m. (two sessions), ticketed event, https://paintingandpinot.com/ee/perkinsroweartfest/.

SATURDAY-SUNDAY

PLANTFEST!: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, LSU Hilltop Arboretum, 11855 Highland Road. Discover more than 3,000 plants and more than 300 species of native and traditional trees, shrubs, perennials, vines, ferns, succulents and grasses. https:// lsu.edu/hilltop/. GERMAN FEST: 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Saturday and 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sunday, 7212 Roberts Cove Road, Rayne. Sip German beer and enjoy folklore demonstrations, live entertainment and authentic German food. robertscovegermanfest.com.

SUNDAY

SUGARFEST: 11 a.m.-4 p.m., West Baton Rouge Museum, 845 N. Jefferson Ave., Port Allen. Learn about local culture, music and history at the 30th annual event. Traditional folk art and occupational craft demonstrations, a peek inside museum exhibits and historic buildings, cane cutting and grinding demonstrations, cane syrup boiling, and live music. Free. wbrparish.org

TODAY IN HISTORY

Today is Friday Oct. 3, the 276th day of 2025. There are 89 days left in the year Today in history:

On Oct. 3, 1990, West Germany and East Germany ended 45 years of postwar division, declaring the creation of a reunified country

Also on this date:

In 1944, during World War II, U.S. Army troops cracked the Siegfried Line north of Aachen, Germany.

In 1974, Frank Robinson was named the American League’s first Black manager after he was hired by the Cleveland Indians.

In 1995, the jury in the O.J. Simpson murder trial in Los Angeles found the former football star not guilty of the 1994 killings of his former wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend Ronald Goldman.

In 2008, O.J. Simpson was found guilty of robbing two sports-memorabilia dealers at gunpoint in a Las Vegas hotel room. (Simpson was sentenced late that year to nine to 33 years in prison; he was granted parole in July 2017 and released from prison in October of that year. He died at age 76 on April 10, 2024 after battling prostate cancer.)

In 2011, an Italian appeals court freed Amanda Knox of Seattle after four years in prison,

MORANIS

Continued from page 5C

the 1997 death of his wife, Ann at which point he pivoted to voice acting and raising the couple’s two children. The Emmy-winning Canadianturned-New Yorker told The Hollywood Reporter in 2016 that he “took a break, which turned into a longer break” and would “probably” jump back in front of the camera for “anything that (he) would find interesting.” A cameo in

tossing murder convictions against Knox and an ex-boyfriend in the stabbing of their British roommate, Meredith Kercher An Italian high court definitively vindicated Knox in 2015, throwing out their convictions once and for all. In 2023, the U.S. House of Representatives voted to remove House Speaker Kevin McCarthy — the first time in U.S. history a speaker had been ousted from the position. Though McCarthy had the support of many fellow Republicans, several hard-right detractors from his party essentially forced him out.

Today’s birthdays: Composer Steve Reich is 89. Rock ’n’ roll star Chubby Checker is 84. Musician Lindsey Buckingham (Fleetwood Mac) is 76. Blues musician Keb’ Mo’ is 74. Baseball Hall of Famer Dave Winfield is 74. Baseball Hall of Famer Dennis Eckersley is 71. Golf Hall of Famer Fred Couples is 66. Rock drummer Tommy Lee is 63. Actor Clive Owen is 61. Film director Denis Villeneuve is 58. Singer-TV personality Gwen Stefani is 56. Pop singer Kevin Richardson (Backstreet Boys) is 54. Actor Neve Campbell is 52 Actor Lena Headey is 52. Singer India.Arie is 50. Rapper Talib Kweli is 50. Actor Seann William Scott is 49. Actor Tessa Thompson is 42. Actor-singer Ashlee Simpson is 41. Actor Alicia Vikander is 37.

that year’s “Ghostbusters” reboot didn’t make the cut, as it made “no sense” to Moranis, though he said

he wished the film well.

“I’m happy with the things I said yes to, and I’m very happy with the many things I’ve said no to,” Moranis said at the time.

“Yes, I am picky, and I’ll continue to be picky Picky has worked for me.”

Moranis is also slated to reprise his “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids” role of Wayne Szalinski in the 1989 film’s sequel, “Shrunk,” which is currently in preproduction and also stars Gad.

LE BAL DU DIMANCHE — ŒUVAL: Vermilionville, Lafayette, 1 p.m.

CAJUN JAM: Bayou Teche Brewing, Arnaudville, 2 p.m.

PINE LEAF BOYS: Cypress Cove Landing, Breaux Bridge, 3 p.m.

SINGER/SONGWRITER

OPEN MIC: Adopted Dog Brewing, Lafayette, 4 p.m.

GENO DELAFOSE: Rock ’n’ Bowl, Lafayette, 5 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Charley G’s, Lafayette, 6 p.m.

JUSTIN CORNETT: Pat’s Atchafalaya Club, Henderson, 7 p.m.

LUKE HUVAL BAND: Hideaway on Lee, Lafayette, 8 p.m.

MONDAY PATRICIO LATINO SOLO: Cafe Habana City, Lafayette, 11 a.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Charley G’s, Lafayette, 6 p.m.

BLUEGRASS JAM: Cité des Arts, Lafayette, 6:30 p.m.

TUESDAY KIDS’ CAJUN JAM NIGHT:

Buck & Johnny’s, Breaux Bridge, 6 p.m.

TERRY HUVAL & FRIENDS: Prejean’s Restaurant, Lafayette, 6 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Charley G’s, Lafayette, 6 p.m. A VISION UNFOLDING FALL CONCERT: St. Mary Mother of the Church, Lafayette, 7 p.m.

KILLER KARAOKE: Freetown Boom Boom Room, Lafayette, 8 p.m.

WEDNESDAY

DULCIMER JAM: St. Landry Visitor Center, Opelousas, 10 a.m.

COURTNEY GRANGER

MEMORIAL & SCHOLARSHIP SHOW: The Sidecar, Lafayette, 5 p.m.

MERCDREDI SHOW FEATURING SHADOW ROAD

BAND: Pelican Park, Carencro, 6 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Charley G’s, Lafayette, 6 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Park Bistro, Lafayette, 6 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: The Tap Room, Youngsville, 6:30 p.m.

CAJUN JAM: Blue Moon Saloon, Lafayette, 8 p.m.

THURSDAY T’ MONDE ALBUM RELEASE PARTY: The Sidecar, Lafayette, 5 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Charley G’s, Lafayette, 6 p.m.

LIVE MUSIC: Naq’s-nDuson, Duson, 6 p.m. KIP SONNIER: SHUCKS!, Abbeville, 6:30 p.m. MARCUS: Gloria’s Bar & Grill, Lafayette, 7 p.m.

GENO DELAFOSE: Rock ‘n’ Bowl, Lafayette, 7:30 p.m.

CLASSICS SERIES — VERDI’S REQUIEM: Heymann Performing Arts Center, Lafayette, 7 p.m. THE HAS BEANS: Hideaway on Lee, Lafayette, 8 p.m

Compiled by Marchaund Jones. Want your venue’s music listed? Email info/photos to showstowatch@ theadvocate.com. The deadline is noon FRIDAY for the following Friday’s paper.

Flood

‘WINIFRED’

Continued from page 5C

Edwards.

and staged.”

Ricardo Mendoza, the LSU senior theater major playing Anthony Trailor in this show learned about the workshopped production on social media.

“I have friends there, and I saw they had taken photos of the production that they’d done,” he said. “I wrote to one of them, asking if they could send me the script, and they did.”

Mendoza, of San Juan, Puerto Rico, distributed copies of the script to members of LSU’s Undergraduate Theatre Alliance, of which he’s a member

“I hosted a book club where, actually, a lot of the people who are in the cast now attended. We read the play, and I knew that I wanted it to be done here, because it had only ever been done in a black box theater with almost no set and one set of costumes, and I could definitely see it being done on a much more maximalist, bigger scale

FEDERALES

Continued from page 5C

Texas Monthly magazine characterized Cauthen’s “My Gospel” studio performances as the embodiment of all four members of country supergroup the Highwaymen: “He’s got Willie Nelson’s phrasing, Johnny Cash’s haggard quiver, Kris Kristofferson’s storytelling and Waylon Jennings’ baritone.”

NPR and Rolling Stone magazine piled praise on Cauthen’s follow-up release, the seven-song EP “Have Mercy.” Rolling Stone cited him as “one of the most fascinating, and eccentric, new voices in country music.”

Porter Jr will play Federales Fest with his post-Meters band, Runnin’ Pardners. The group features keyboardist Michael Lemmler guitarist Chris Adkins and drummer Terrence Houston. Everyone, including Porter, sings. At 77 years old, Porter is a treasured link to the golden age of New Orleans rhythm-and-blues and a founding father of the funk sound that emerged from the Crescent City in the late 1960s. His first dose of fame came alongside his fellow Meters: Art Neville, Leo Nocentelli and Joseph “Zigaboo” Modeliste.

So, Mendoza asked the Alliance members to write notes about why they believed LSU should stage the play, then submitted them to LSU School of Theatre Director Kristin Sosnowsky “And luckily enough, it was picked as a Main Stage production,” Mendoza said.

A comic Austen theme

Now, if the play’s main character sounds somewhat like real-life author Jane Austen, it’s not a coincidence. Winifred Edwards’ life very much aligns with that of the independent author The story is set in 1890s America and follows Winifred as she’s pursued by Anthony while battling her family to maintain her independence. Anthony is convinced Winifred deliberately left her handkerchief to capture his attention, so he enlists his quick-witted cousin, Georgia, to help him unravel Winifred’s true feelings. But, as in the case of multilayered stories, things are not as they seem.

Despite being New Orleans’ most successful funk outfit, the Meters disbanded in 1977 amid bitter music business disputes. In the ensuing decades, the group performed occasional but much-anticipated reunions. With and without the Meters, Porter’s stage and record studio history includes classic New Orleans artists Professor Longhair, Allen Toussaint, Earl King, Lee Dorsey Huey “Piano’ Smith, Snooks Eaglin, Johnny Adams and Irma Thomas Beyond New Orleans, he’s worked with Paul McCartney, Jimmy Buffett, Tori Amos, David Byrne, Patti LaBelle, Robbie Robertson, Taj Mahal and the Grateful Dead’s Bill Kreutzmann and Mickey Hart. Highly esteemed in his hometown, Porter, for the seventh time, will be musical director for the allstar tribute concert that’s staged every November at Tipitina’s. Following tributes to Longhair, Toussaint, Dr John, King, Fats Domino, Smith and Thomas, Porter leads this year’s tribute to his late Meters bandmate, Neville, and another funk pioneer, Eddie Bo. Morrow, originally from Houston, mixes rock ’n’ roll, blues, rhythm-and-blues, honky tonk and funk into his contemporary Americana sound. Writing songs

“Winifred likes to think she’s like this rebel,” said Priya Hildebrand, a sophomore theater major who plays the main character “She’s the black sheep of the family, but she’s also a major people pleaser, which is how she ends up in the situation that she ends up in.”

But that doesn’t mean Winifred will accept her unwarranted fate.

“She’s definitely not like Anthony in most ways,” said Hildebrand of Merrillville, Indiana. “She’s especially not like him in romance, which is what he wants. There are all of these things she wants to do, and she wants to live her life.” Arguments and eyerolls will ensue as Winifred tries to make her case, adding to this hilarious exploration of love and societal expectations brought together by guest director Gleason Bauer, associate director of Square Product Theatre in Boulder Colorado.

“It’s a lighthearted, fun play, and I think it has a really great heart,” Bauer said. “We have seven scripted roles and two ensemble roles, and we have a really great cast.”

that tell stories about his life, Morrow frames his lyrics in music influenced by the classic roots acts Little Feat, Los Lobos and Freddie King as well as modern rockers Queens of the Stone Age.

Attendance at Federales Fest has grown each year, Hover, said, from 750 in year one to 950 last year He hopes to pass the 1,000 mark this year

“Our main goal for Federales Fest is to ensure a sustainable event for years to come,” Hover said “With the community vibe we’ve got and the music we’re turning people on to, we’ve got enough momentum to be around for a long time.”

A local music scene veteran, Hover’s previous gigs include being music promoter for Beauvoir Park and director of entertainment at Red Stick Social. In addition to staging Federales Fest, he’s managing director for Baton Rouge’s free Friday concert series, Live After Five. Proceeds from Federales Fest, which is presented by Williamson Eye Center and Lamar Advertising, support Be Positive, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the next generation of Louisiana chefs, artists and musicians. The 2025 festival also features about 30 young vendors participating in the Children’s Entrepreneur Market.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-oct. 23) Be creative; consider how you can make your surroundings and lifestyle more accommodating and practical. Take on only what's within your means mentally and financially.

ScoRPIo (oct. 24-nov. 22) Refrain from sharing too much information or secrets. Be a good listener and respond only when necessary. Anger and frustration can lead to opposition and setbacks.

SAGIttARIuS (nov. 23-Dec. 21) Be open regarding your intentions, and you'll receive positive input that helps you gain insight into how best to proceed. It's time to invest in yourself instead of supporting someone else's dreams.

cAPRIcoRn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Stick to simple, cost-effective solutions. Channel your energy into doing, not arguing over what others think or want from you. A physical change will boost your confidence.

AQuARIuS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) You know the protocol regarding financial, medical or legal affairs. A change at home will turn out better than you anticipate and help set you on a positive path.

PIScES (Feb. 20-March 20) Don't limit yourself when it's others who need to adjust to what's happening. A change in attitude or perspective can help you adapt your routine to suit your needs.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) Sort out any differences you are having and con-

centrate on tying up loose ends Use your imagination, and you'll discover a cost-effective way to get things done with panache.

tAuRuS (April 20-May 20) Emotional decisions will backfire if you aren't careful. Do your research before making a purchase, signing up for a subscription or volunteering your time, skills or money.

GEMInI (May 21-June 20) Share your experience with colleagues or experts. Airing how you feel will be met with a sympathetic response. Avoid taking risks with your health.

cAncER (June 21-July 22) Go on a learning spree. Discover what you can do to stay healthy, fit and mentally sharp. Leading someone astray will tarnish your reputation.

LEo (July 23-Aug. 22) Emotion and anger will hurt a relationship if you aren't careful. Ask questions and verify your facts before agreeing to participate in something costly.

VIRGo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Intelligence coupled with intuition will help you sidestep potential professional risks. Focus your energy on staying current with industry changes. Attend networking functions.

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

Paul Valery,a French poet and critic who died in 1945, said,“Every thought is an exception to the general rule that people don’t think.”

Bridgeplayersalwaysthink—although expertsthink more than others.

Today’s deal requires careful thought. Southisinthreeno-trump.Westleadshis fourth-highest heart. What shouldSouth do afterwinning with hisjack?

South seems to have atextbook twono-trump opening bid, but it is closeto an upgrade to two clubs,with that good five-card suitworth an extra point.

Declarer has only five top tricks:two spades and three hearts. It looks obvious to attack diamonds, where he has so many cards. And that is true, but it helps if he pauses to think about the right play at tricktwo

SupposeSouthmakesthenatural-looking choice of alow diamond to dummy’s jack. Here, East wins the trick withhis ace and returnsa heart, after which declarer has no chance.IfSouth then triesclubs,East takes the trick withthe ace and leads his last heart.

True, if declarer starts at trick two with aclub to dummy’s 10, that makes it harder for thedefense. Whichever defender takes thetrickmustshift to spades.

However, Southcan leave the defenders with no chance if he leads the diamond king from his hand at the second trick. If East wins the trick, declarer takes East’sreturnand ducks adiamond to collect twospades, three hearts and four diamonds.Alternatively,ifEast ducks the diamond king, South turns to clubs, taking two spades, three hearts, one diamond and three clubs.

©2025 by NEA,Inc., dist. By Andrews McMeel Syndication

wuzzles

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 PEASAnt: PEH-zent: Ausually uneducated person of low social status.

Average mark24words Time limit 40 minutes Can you find 33 or morewords in PEASANT?

yEStERDAy’S WoRD —DuoDEcIMo