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NOPD homicide clearance rate rises Department sees big turnaround in key metric

BY MISSY WILKINSON Staff writer

temporarily house all of them for what might only be a short-term gold rush as the data center gets built. Gov. Jeff Landry announced in July that Meta is expanding its investment at Hyperion to $50 billion, from $10 billion. The data center, whose massive computational capacity is designed to power Meta during the AI revolution,

When New Orleans homicide Detective Andrew Waldron’s phone rings, he answers, no matter the time of day or night. One year, the NOPD lieutenant left his family’s Christmas celebration to go to a murder victim’s house after the survivors invited him over. Part of it is a drive to be there for people who are suffering. But empathy has a practical side, too. A tipster may Waldron not always ring twice. And in a city as small as New Orleans, he said, the family he comforts after one killing may someday include a suspect of another. Building community trust and collaboration is just one factor that the New Orleans Police Department now credits for a stark turnaround in a key measure of its success: its ability to solve murders. As of Aug. 12, the homicide unit’s clearance rate this year stood at 98%, according to NOPD data. In 2022, when New Orleans became the nation’s murder capital, NOPD cleared just 43% of its homicide cases. As of Aug. 12, 52 people have been killed in New Orleans, and police classiﬁed 49 as murders. About two-thirds of the murder cases this year have resulted in arrests. But this year’s clearance rate was boosted because several older murders were also cleared in 2026 that are included in the total number of cleared cases. They include seven killings dating as far back as 2021. One was the 2024 mass shooting outside Republic night club that wounded 11 people and killed Jezreel Poleate, 24. Melanie Talia, CEO of the New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation, the nonproﬁt that supports some NOPD initiatives, cheered the work of the force that resulted in the improved numbers. “The strategies that (NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick) and her team have put into place are working,” Talia said. “They’re working with local, state and federal partners, with the Department of Health and the community.”

ä See META, page 6A

ä See NOPD, page 4A

BURSTING

AT THE SEAMS Meta data center packing hotels, new RV parks BY TYLER BRIDGES

Staff writer

Jerry House needed a job. House had worked as a pipeﬁtter for 10 years in Texas, but after the plant shut down last year, he called a buddy who said the giant Meta data center being built in northeast Louisiana needed all kinds of skilled laborers. House went to a union hall, took a test to determine his ability and by Easter this year had a job working on one of biggest construc“I hope to the tion projects in the be here United States. another House, 58, now works 50 hours a week and three or four years.” lives at the Cotton Patch RV Park, a couple JERRy HOUSE, of miles from the data center, known as HyMeta data perion. center It’s not a glamorous construction life. The RVs are staworker tioned on a gravel lot that used to be a cotton ﬁeld in an unincorporated community called Holly Ridge. The closest bars, restaurants and nighttime entertainment are at least 30 minutes away. But the money is very good. Workers said they are making 11/ 2 to 2 times as much as on their previous jobs but

STAFF PHOTOS By MICHAEL JOHNSON

Dunn Village, a recreation center where Meta data center workers spend their free time, features multiple recliners, sofas and televisions. TOP: A crane lifts material onto a building where crews are working on the Meta data center grounds in Holly Ridge in Richland Parish on Aug. 4. didn’t want to provide speciﬁcs. “I hope to be here another three or four years,” House said, sitting at a picnic table where workers who live at the RV park gather after quitting time to drink beer, socialize and order meals from a food truck. House joined thousands of fortuneseeking workers who are transforming rural Richland Parish, posing an extraordinary challenge of where to

Developers left wondering where to build in St. Tammany lakefront were unanimously voted down by After veto, latest new the City Council after residents voiced concerns. Developers and the city have been housing effort unsuccessful tied up in legal challenges since.

BY GRACE MAYER Staff writer

When plans for two subdivisions in Goodbee just west of Covington were scuttled earlier this month, it was just the latest of several unsuccessful efforts in recent years to build new housing in St. Tammany Parish. In 2024, developers behind a 100-unit apartment complex in Covington faced political backlash from Parish Council members, residents and lawsuits. The council eventually softened its opposition, but by then, the developers had abandoned their plans. And, in 2023, plans for the Sucette Harbor apartments and a hotel on the Mandeville

WEATHER HIGH 99 LOW 79 PAGE 8B

“It’s the same old, same old,” said Saun Sullivan, CEO of DSLD Homes, which was supposed to be the builder for some of the Goodbee homes. “They don’t want anything approved here.” For decades now, leaders and residents of St. Tammany Parish, a one-time bedroom community that has grown to become the fourth-most populous region in the state, have grappled with how to manage growth and balance quality of life concerns with the demand for housing and services. Amid the string of recent defeats, developers say they’re as frustrated as ever.

New homes are being built in the Tantela Lakes subdivision in north Covington on Thursday. STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

ä See DEVELOPERS, page 5A

Business ......................1E Deaths .........................3B Nation-World................2A Classified ..................... 2F Living............................1D Opinion ........................6B Commentary ................7B Metro ...........................1B Sports ..........................1C

14TH yEAR, NO. 11

2A ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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FROM WIRE REPORTS

Trump asks court to nix BBC’s bid for records

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump has urged a federal judge to reject the BBC’s request for the court’s help in securing testimony and documents from three family members in response to his $10 billion defamation lawsuit against the British broadcaster. The BBC is trying to gain “politically-driven leverage” over Trump by serving subpoenas on daughter Ivanka Trump, son-inlaw Jared Kushner and son Donald Trump Jr., personal lawyers for the Republican president argued in a court filing Friday. U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Kuntz in Miami did not immediately rule on the dispute. Kuntz, who was nominated to the bench by Trump, inherited the president’s lawsuit from another judge less than a week ago. Court filings did not immediately specify a reason for the case’s reassignment. The previous judge has set a February trial date. In May, a process server working for the BBC tried to serve subpoenas on Ivanka Trump and Kushner at their residence but encountered Secret Service agents who said they were not authorized to accept it, according to the president’s lawyers. They said the process server also visited Trump Tower in New York several days later in a failed attempt to serve Donald Trump Jr. In a court filing last week, the broadcaster asked for the court’s permission to serve subpoenas on Trump’s family members by certified mail instead of in person. Trump’s lawsuit, filed in December, accuses the BBC of deceptively editing portions of the speech that he delivered near the White House on Jan. 6, 2021, when a mob of his supporters attacked the Capitol to stop Congress from certifying Democrat Joe Biden’s victory over Trump. The suit claims the BBC spliced together separate parts of Trump’s speech to intentionally misrepresent what he said.

Scores kidnapped from mosque in Nigeria

A number of people were kidnapped from a mosque in a spree of abductions at several villages in Nigeria’s north-central Niger state, police said Saturday. The assailants attacked a mosque in Kpenya village after attacks in a string of villages in the remote Borgu Local Government Area of Niger state Friday, police spokesperson Wasiu Abiodun said. Such attacks are common in Nigeria, where multiple armed groups operate, killing and kidnapping people for ransom. The groups sometimes clash in competition with each other. No group has claimed responsibility for the Friday attacks. Abiodun did not provide ﬁgures but said no lives were lost in the Friday attacks, and said the military was deployed to the area. Residents said scores of people were abducted, with some estimating between 60 and 80 people were kidnapped. A search for survivors was underway Saturday.

Donkey jumps into van in Germany, injuring 3

BERLIN — A donkey on the loose in northern Germany attacked two motorists by jumping into their van on Friday, kicking and biting them along with a third woman who tried to help restrain the aggressive equine, police said. The incident south of the coastal city of Cuxhaven came to an end as the animal’s owner intervened to secure the animal, Cuxhaven police said in a statement. Passersby noticed the donkey, whose name is Freddy, and a horse were running loose at a roundabout in the town of Holssel. The motorists tried to secure the donkey, which “became very aggressive” and jumped into the van. The 33-year-old woman who tried to help required hospital treatment, while the motorists sustained minor injuries, the police statement said. “The reason for the animal’s aggressive reaction is still unclear,” the statement said.

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U.S., Canada fall deeper into trade war Trump imposes tariffs as talks collapse and blame is spread

BY PAUL WISEMAN and ROB GILLIES Associated Press

WASHINGTON — The United States and Canada, historic allies along an undefended border, fell deeper into a trade war Saturday marked by angry recriminations and new tariffs that are expected to raise prices for products in both countries. Each side blamed the other for the collapse of negotiations in Washington late Friday, leading the U.S. to impose 50% tariffs on $20 billion worth of Canadian goods and Canada setting Sept. 8 as the start of its retaliatory penTrump alties. President Donald Trump’s import taxes will hit about 5% of what Canada ships to the United States every year, ranging from hockey sticks to tongue depressors. Prime Minister Carney said Ottawa would respond with targeted tariff protection for industries exposed to the new U.S. duties, including some steel products. He also mentioned the dairy, appliance, agricultural equipment, pulp and paper and electronics sectors.

CANADIAN PRESS PHOTO By PATRICK DOyLE

Prime Minister Mark Carney speaks about Canada’s response to new U.S. tariffs during a news conference on Saturday on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada. No further talks were planned. Whatever the eventual outcome, a loss of trust seems one of the earliest casualties. Carney accused Washington of using “economic integration as a weapon” and said “its signature was written in pencil.” Resorting to the language of battle, he said his country had been “attacked” by the new American tariffs. “You’re at war when you get attacked,” he said, adding that Canada had the reserves, resilience and plan to respond. But to Trump’s chief trade negotiator, Jamieson Greer, the U.S. was compelled to act after a year of

retaliation by its longtime partner. “We’ve said enough, and so we’ve taken countermeasures. Our interest is in protecting American workers and protecting American supply chains,” the U.S. trade representative told “Fox & Friends Weekend.” Carney said Canada had been willing to drop remaining retaliatory tariffs on steel, aluminum and autos if the U.S. substantially lowered its own, and to encourage provinces to restore U.S. alcohol sales. But he said Washington’s ﬁnal demands went too far. “They asked too much and offered too little,” Carney said.

Greer said the Republican administration was offering to cut tariffs on steel, autos and lumber, “things that are sensitive for them. And they’ve always had the best deal, and they still would have an even better deal, but they didn’t want that.” As a result, he said, “We’re moving forward with measures that respond to Canadian retaliation.” Carney said the U.S. added last-minute terms that would have reduced tariff relief for Canadian-made vehicles, restricted Canada’s ability to strike trade deals with other countries and weakened protections

for language, culture and sovereignty. He said such demands were “unacceptable.” The breakdown in negotiations marked a sharp reversal from two days earlier, when ofﬁcials from the two countries sounded as if they were headed toward a compromise. Ontario Premier Doug Ford, who leads Canada’s most populous province, praised Carney for rejecting the deal, saying it would have hurt Ontario’s auto, steel and manufacturing sectors. Ford urged Canada to use “every tool in our toolbox” to ﬁght the U.S. tariffs. The moves also call into question the future of a North American trade agreement covering the United States, Canada and Mexico that is crucial to industry in all three countries. Carney said the breakdown was “certainly not good news” for the review of that agreement and that the failed negotiations had given Canada “a new perspective” on what Washington wants from the broader economic relationship. The political impact will likely be even bigger than the economic fallout. The countries sold each other $880 billion worth of goods and services last year. The tariffs were initially supposed to kick in at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday. Trump extended the deadline for three days to allow talks to continue, but the countries could not reach an agreement in time.

Iran threatens neighbors against economic measures Mohsen Rezaei was named this month as part The hard-line new lead- of senior appointments er of Iran’s Supreme Na- widely seen as hardentional Security Council ing Tehran’s political and threatened Tehmilitary stance. ONFLICT His interview with ran’s neighbors CO IRIB is his most against joining IN THE T extensive public the new U.S. ef- MIIDDLE statement since fort to hurt Iran’s AST then. economy, and ac- EAST Rezaei said Iran cused the United States of increasing glob- would target oil-shipping al nuclear insecurity with routes out of the Persian Gulf — alternatives to months of war. “If (Trump) wants to do the Strait of Hormuz — something, we will retali- if neighbors join what he ate in a seismic manner,” described as the economic he said in an interview war against Iran. Those with the state broadcaster neighbors would be conthat aired Saturday. sidered enemies and “we

By The Associated Press

will target their interests,” he said. President Donald Trump in the past week has vowed to increase Iran’s pain by imposing an “unprecedented” level of economic warfare and isolation. Iran has lived under sanctions for years. Rezaei said discussions with Oman, located on the other side of the strait, over management of it were ongoing, and said fees would be imposed. Iran asserted control over what was seen as an international waterway shortly after the U.S. and Israel attacked on Feb. 28.

Russian, Ukrainian strikes kill 10 a day after deadly mall attack BY VOLODYMYR YURCHUK Associated Press

KYIV, Ukraine — Russian drone and missile strikes killed at least seven people in Ukraine, officials said Saturday, while a Ukrainian drone attack on Russia’s Krasnodar region killed three people there. The attacks came a day after a Russian strike on a Ukrainian shopping center killed at least 16 people and wounded some 130. Moscow’s forces have recently intensified their ballistic missile attacks on Kyiv, exploiting Ukraine’s chronic shortage of U.S.made Patriot air defense interceptors, the sole weapon in its arsenal able to shoot down the missiles. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that one person was killed and another wounded in the latest attacks when ballistic missiles hit railway infrastructure in the capital, Kyiv, overnight. Russia’s Defense Ministry said that its forces had hit a locomotive depot. In a separate attack, local authorities said two people were killed Saturday afternoon in a Russian ballistic missile strike on the Kyiv region, which surrounds

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO

People embrace each other Friday near a burning mall after a Russian drone attack in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine. the capital. Russian drone strikes also killed one person overnight in the Zaporizhzhia region, local ofﬁcials said Saturday, and a daytime attack killed three others and wounded 15. Zelenskyy said that three people were also wounded in an attack on a minibus in the regional capital, also called Zaporizhzhia. In Russia’s southern Krasnodar region, authorities said that three people, including two children, were killed and two adults were wounded in a Ukrainian drone strike. The latest attacks came a day after Russian drones struck a shopping center in the city of Kryvyi Rih in

central Ukraine. Dnipropetrovsk regional head Oleksandr Hanzha said in the early hours of Saturday that the death toll had risen to 16. Later on Saturday he said four people remain missing after the attack, which wounded a further 130. Kryvyi Rih is the hometown of Zelenskyy, who described the attack as a double-tap strike, in which an initial wave of drones hit the area followed by a second wave as rescue workers responded. The Ukrainian leader said the ﬁre, which spread across around 97,000 square feet, had been extinguished and rescue efforts were underway.

Rezaei also vowed to make changes to Iran’s diplomacy and bring new capabilities to what he called the next war. He warned the U.S. against sending more military personnel to the region, and said the U.S. had increased nuclear insecurity because countries see that participating in international monitoring efforts, as Iran has done, is no protection against attack. Meanwhile, the top diplomats for Egypt and Iran discussed efforts to bring

Tehran and Washington back to the negotiating table to settle the war, Egypt’s foreign ministry said. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Egyptian counterpart Badr Abdelatty also discussed the Iranian-Omani talks, the ministry said. Araghchi briefed Egypt’s foreign minister about “Iran’s view of ongoing developments, the course of negotiations and their challenges,” the ministry said, without elaborating.

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Federal judge vacates visa processing policy Rule suspended processing from 75 countries

BY MICHAEL CASEY Associated Press

A federal judge in New York has vacated a Trump administration policy that suspended the processing of visas from 75 countries, including Afghanistan, Iran, Russia and Somalia, whose nationals the Trump administration deemed likely to require public assistance in the United States. U.S. District Judge Jeannette Vargas, an appointee of former President Joe Biden, set aside the policy Friday as “contrary to law and in excess of statutory authority.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio exceeded his authority by issuing the policy, which “runs afoul” of the Immigration and Nationality Act by mandating “the refusal of visas to eligible applicants without any basis

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By TIERNEy L. CROSS

Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrives on Aug. 11 at the Treaty Room at the State Department in Washington. A federal court ruled Rubio exceeded his authority in issuing a policy suspending the processing of visas from 75 countries. in law,” the judge ruled. Vargas said the policy also undermines the congressional requirement that puts consular ofﬁcers at the forefront of any visa decision. “Congress imbued these ofﬁcers with exclusive authority and discretion to

determine if an immigrant is eligible for a visa based upon review of speciﬁc and detailed criteria set forth in the statute,” she wrote. “The Policy, which categorically prohibits the issuance of immigrant visas based upon the nationality of the ap-

plicant, represents a direct abrogation of this statutory scheme.” The policy was challenged by two nonprofit organizations along with 11 individuals, including six whose family members had been refused visas. The remaining five are outside the country and had filed “employmentbased petitions” to come to the United States. “We welcome this ruling because, at its heart, this case is about keeping families together,” said Anna Gallagher, the executive director of CLINIC, a national nonprofit that provides training, resources, and support to a network of immigration legal service providers and was one of the plaintiffs. “Catholic social teaching calls us to uphold the dignity of every person and recognize the family as the foundation of society,” she said in a statement. “This decision affirms both those values and the rule of law, allowing families to once again move forward toward

reuniﬁcation.” Another plaintiff is African Communities Together, a Harlem-based nonprofit. One of its leaders called the ruling “a tremendous victory for the rule of law.” “This unlawful and racist ban caused immeasurable harm, cruelly keeping families and loved ones apart,” Diana Konate, deputy executive director for policy and advocacy, said in a statement. “Today, we are elated to tell our community members: this ban is no more.” President Donald Trump has imposed a growing list of immigration and travel bans mostly for people from Africa, Asia and Latin America. The State Department said Saturday that the Trump administration is “protecting the American people by upholding the highest standards of screening and vetting of visa applicants,” and that it would not comment on pending litigation. At the time the policy was issued, the State Department said it had instructed consular ofﬁcers to halt immigrant

visa applications from the 75 countries in accordance with a broader order in November that tightened rules around potential immigrants who might become “public charges.” Relying on Council of Economic Advisers data, the State Department said that more than 30% of households with immigrants from these countries received some form of public assistance. A separate notice sent to all U.S. embassies and consulates said that nonimmigrant visa applicants also should be “fully vetted and screened” for the possibility that they might seek public benefits in the United States. The cable, a copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press, noted several times that the applicant must prove they won’t apply for public benefits while in the U.S., and that consular officers who suspect the applicant might apply should require them to fill out a form proving their financial bona fides.

TikTok reaches settlement with DOJ Trump urges S.C. voters to elect Darline Graham in Republican runoff $400M deal settles suit over children’s privacy

BY BARBARA ORTUTAY AP technology writer

TikTok has reached a $400 million settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice, ending a 2024 lawsuit alleging the company violated federal children’s privacy laws. The DOJ said Friday that TikTok will pay $300 million immediately and another $100 million after an order vacates an earlier consent decree against its predecessor company, Musical.ly. “This settlement is a ma-

jor victory for American children and parents,” U.S. Associate Attorney General Stanley E. Woodward Jr. said in a statement. “The Department’s priority is ensuring that children are protected online and that companies entrusted with their personal information meet their legal obligations. This resolution secures a substantial recovery while reinforcing the protections that families expect and deserve.” Since the DOJ’s lawsuit in 2024, TikTok has undergone major changes, most notably in the ownership structure of its U.S. arm. In January, the social video platform company signed agreements with major investors including Oracle, Silver Lake and

the Emirati investment ﬁrm MGX to form the new TikTok U.S. joint venture. Representatives for TikTok did not immediately respond to a message for comment Friday. The latest lawsuit focused on allegations that TikTok and its China-based parent company ByteDance violated a federal law that requires kid-oriented apps and websites to get parental consent before collecting personal information of children under 13. It also says the companies failed to honor requests from parents who wanted their children’s accounts deleted, and chose not to delete accounts even when the firms knew they belonged to kids under 13.

BY MEG KINNARD and DARLENE SUPERVILLE Associated Press

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — President Donald Trump sought Friday to boost Sen. Darline Graham’s effort to win a full term, telling thousands of supporters that the ﬁrst step toward keeping her as their senator involves helping the political newcomer triumph in a Republican runoff next week. The Republican president also begged them to pretend that he’s on the ballot Tuesday — even though he is not — if that will help get them out to vote. Voters will decide Tuesday

whether Graham or Rep. Ralph Norman will be the Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate on the ballot in November. “You have to get out and vote,” Trump said about Darline Graham, who is serving out the remainder of the term of her late brother, Sen. Lindsey Graham, who died unexpectedly in July. “And we need every South Carolina patriot to go to the polls and vote for Darline Graham.” Trump nodded to the reality that Republican base voters lose interest in elections when he is not a candidate for ofﬁce, as is the case this year. Trump is serving

his second and ﬁnal term as president. “So what I really want you to do is pretend, please, that I’m on the ballot. Just come and vote. It’s so important,” Trump said. “So just say that I’m on the ballot one more time. You got to say it, and you got to come out and vote.” Trump, who encouraged Darline Graham to run and has given her his “complete and total endorsement,” called her to the stage as he neared the end of his remarks. “This is Trump country,” she declared before leading the crowd in chants of “U.S.A.”

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NOPD

Continued from page 1A

Deeper investigations The rising clearance rate is an achievement for a department that struggled for years to solve killings. That was largely because of the sheer volume of them, Waldron said. Nationally, homicide detectives carry about five or six cases per year. In 2022, when 266 people were killed in the city, many NOPD detectives had 15 or 16 each. “It was unbelievable the amount of work we had: 266 murders, carjackings, armed robberies, waves of juvenile crime,” Waldron said of 2022. “At some point, you have to triage them. There are only so many hours in the day.” The NOPD’s homicide unit has 16 active homicide detectives, three cold case detectives and three civilian investigators who work throughout the city’s eight patrol districts, police said. Today, most have three or four cases each. The lighter caseload gives detectives more time to dig into investigations and make arrests — something police and their supporters say can prevent one killing from spawning another. “Solving these has a bit of a compounding effect,” said Matthew Stone, a former NOPD detective and spokesperson for the New Orleans Police and Justice Foundation. “The faster they solve them, the harder it is (for individuals) to seek retribution or escalate when they are already locked up.” Waldron, who leads the homicide unit, said arrests have also helped curb drug violence and turf battles. “There’s not that many individuals who are pulling a trigger and killing people on the street,” Waldron said. NOPD targets those suspects and builds cases against them, often with help from federal and state partners, including Louisiana State Police’s Troop NOLA. A decade ago, when the homicide clearance rate was 27%, those partners assisted with only a handful of cases. Now, they’re involved daily, from responding to crime scenes to sharing case ﬁles containing intelligence about other criminal activity and networks, NOPD said. “You can’t have siloed investigations,” said Waldron, who joined the NOPD in 2008, its homicide unit in 2011 and an FBI violent crime task force in 2016, where he remains assigned. “You can’t have this ‘my case’ syndrome. ... I think that’s traditionally where certain departments, to include ours in the past, have faltered. This is a team sport.”

The math behind 98% The historic decline in killings has also helped improve the clearance rate simply by creating fewer cases that need to be solved, according to Jeff Asher, co-founder of AH Datalytics, who recently retooled the city’s public safety dashboards. The same dynamic in New

STAFF FILE PHOTOS By ENAN CHEDIAK

New Orleans police investigate after a man was found dead in a yard in the 1800 block of South White Street on July 12.

NOPD’s homicide clearance rates, by year

Over the past five years, NOPD has seen an improvement in the homicide clearance rate, or the rate that murder cases are closed — either by arrest or exception. 74.2%

72.4%

52.8% 41.7%

2021

40.2%

2022

2023

2024

2025

Note: As of Aug. 12, NOPD’s homicide clearance rate for 2026 was 98%. Source: NOPD

Staff graphic

Those metrics are also improving in New Orleans. Crimes against persons are down 32% from 2023, according to the city’s public safety dashboard. Since August 2025, the District Attorney’s Office has secured indictments in 64 of 87 homicide cases, while three were not indicted by a grand jury and about 20 remain under review, according to Orleans Parish District Attorney spokesperson Kendrick Antonio Thomas. The District Attorney’s Ofﬁce has said its partnership with the NOPD has helped prosecutors build strong cases. “We talk daily,” Waldron said of the district attorney’s homicide unit. “We meet once a week in person at minimum ... just to go over cases.”

cameras, DNA analysis, cell site records and social media have opened new investigative paths. But the growing trove of evidence still requires detectives to make sense of it. “It always takes some detective, somewhere, mak-

ing the right decisions,” said NOPD Deputy Superintendent Nicholas Gernon, who oversees the NOPD’s Investigations and Support Bureau. “That sometimes gets lost in those sexy, coldcase-ﬁles forensic shows.” Sometimes, that evidence shows there was no murder to solve. In July, NOPD opened a homicide investigation after a man was found dead in a Broadmoor backyard. “The individual had a leather belt tied around his neck, but he was so decomposed that you would never know how big his neck was,” Waldron said. Surveillance footage showed the man had been walking around with the belt around his neck. Waldron didn’t know whether a mental health episode, intoxication or something else explained it, but the footage helped establish that his death was accidental, not a murder. “Before cameras, that’s a murder we would have never solved,” Waldron said. “I would have called it a murder, but it didn’t happen.” Waldron said he has investigated hundreds of homicides and that he and his fellow detectives will continue working to clear old cases. “A lot of those cases are workable, and we’re doing that,” he said. “The job and the challenge never get old, and I think that’s what drives a lot of us.”

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New Orleans police use a K-9 on the scene of an investigation of a man’s death in the 1800 block of South White Street in July. Orleans has played out nationally, but not to the same extent. As violent crime has waned, the national murder clearance rate has climbed from 48.5% in 2022 to about 69% today, FBI data shows. “If you have a drop in murder, you have a higher clearance rate,” Asher said. “When your denominator shrinks, you don’t need as much in your numerator.” A department’s annual murder clearance rate is a widely reported statistic by U.S. police forces that compares the number of mur-

ders reported that year with the number cleared that year, including cases from previous years. A murder can be cleared by an arrest or, less frequently, by exception, meaning a suspect has been identiﬁed but won’t be arrested, possibly because they’re dead or already jailed and facing charges in a different jurisdiction. Asher said every crime metric has limitations, and homicide clearance rates are best considered alongside crime, arrest and prosecution rates.

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The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ 5A

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DEVELOPERS

that we see in other parts of the country,” Saucier said. “The Gulf South is generally growing. We have had to go to those areas to supplement what we do at home.”

Continued from page 1A

The battles come as the parish faces an acute housing crisis, in need of tens of thousands more single-family houses and apartments to keep up with population growth. Now, some developers are questioning not only where they can build in St. Tammany but if they want to do projects in the parish at all. “It is a horrible situation from a developer’s standpoint,” said Mike Saucier, president of Gulf States Real Estate, Development and Construction Services. “It sends the wrong message to the outside world about St. Tammany Parish.”

Greener pastures?

Growing demand It’s not just that people in St. Tammany are against all projects, say longtime residents and local elected officials. Opposition is often rooted in concerns based on experience, about traffic, flooding and infrastructure. Rick Smith, a council member whose district includes Covington, said the parish’s population has grown significantly in a relatively short amount of time. Existing infrastructure has yet to catch up. “A resident will tell you they used to be able to get from their house to the Causeway in 15 minutes,” said Smith, who voted against the Goodbee projects. “Today, that same person will tell you it takes them 45 minutes to an hour.” In May 2022, the parish planning commission sought to address the issue with the adoption of a 2040 Master Plan, which identified certain parts of the parish as viable for future residential development. But the plan isn’t enforceable and the makeup of the commission has since changed. So, the plan hasn’t had much effect. In 2024, the council updated the parish zoning code with changes intended to make development easier. The new rules include streamlining the permitting process and easing some of the hurdles developers go through to gain approvals to build — from navigating drainage ordinances to floodplain mitigation. Demand for new homes has continued to grow. A 2026 study commissioned by the parish and released in April found that up to 17,300 new homes need to be built

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

New homes are being built in the Tantela Lakes subdivision in north Covington on Thursday. within the next four years to keep up with job and population growth. Projections show that the population could increase 17% to just under 300,000 residents in that time. Still, some say that despite the rule changes, the hurdles remain high. “We have some of the most stringent drainage ordinances in America in St. Tammany,” said Sauc- Cooper ier, who helped draft the 2024 zoning changes. “We have a ﬂoodplain mitigation ordinance. We have a classic impact analysis ordinance. We have impact fees.”

‘Baffled’ developers As the Goodbee project illustrates, even when the rules work and many people seem to be on the same page, politics still plays a role. The project encompassed two subdivisions, to be called Isadora and Esperanza with a total of up to 800 single-family homes, over two tracts totaling roughly 300 acres. Developer Jeff Vallee, whose H1 Associates was behind the project, spent almost two years drafting and redrafting plans — making adjustments along the way after collecting comments from 10 public hearings. He said he went above and be-

yond what was needed to abide by the new zoning code and gradually overcame what, initially, had been fierce opposition. Earlier this month, the Parish Council finally cleared the way for the project to go forward, when a majority voted to reclassify the two tracts from rural to suburban. Three days later, St. Tammany President Michael Cooper vetoed the measures. Cooper told The Times-Picayune that he vetoed the project because investments in drainage and roadway infrastructure had to be prioritized before the project could move forward. Traffic also contributed to his decision. “It’s daunting because we don’t know what the rules are,” Vallee said. “We relied on the zoning code and exceeded that. The development community is baffled. What type of projects does the parish want to see?”

Building permits down Beyond the Goodbee projects, Sullivan believes the broader pushback to residential development in St. Tammany is deterring developers. In the case of DSLD, which is building 4,500 homes throughout the Gulf South this

year, St. Tammany is one of its smallest markets. “Frankly it’s too hard to get anything approved here,” said Sullivan, who lives in Covington. DSLD, which is known for building modest homes in the $250,000$400,000 range, is on track to build 150 homes in St. Tammany this year, including in a subdivision called Tantela Lakes in north Covington. That’s about one-third as many as it built for the parish in 2018. Data suggests other builders are also scaling back. In 2025, a little over 1,000 building permits for single-family homes were ﬁled in St. Tammany Parish, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. That’s less than half as many as in 2006 and about 15% fewer than in 2016. It’s far short of where it needs to be, according to the recent housing study. The report said the parish needs to issue between 2,300 and 3,460 new residential construction permits a year to keep up with population growth. Saucier said his company is pursuing very little speculative construction projects in the parish, despite being headquartered in Covington. Instead, its focus has shifted to other parts of the Gulf South, including Alabama and Mississippi. Email Grace Mayer at grace. “We just don’t see the demand mayer@theadvocate.com.

EPISODE 4

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Still, the pushback to development — and the chilling effect it is having near Covington — appears to be creating opportunities elsewhere in the parish and beyond. Money Hill, a 350-home residential community and golf course development in Abita Springs, has been building between 15 and 20 homes per year on average since the early 2000s, said Mimi Dossett, president of the family business that owns the development and surrounding land. The long-term goal is to expand the subdivision to 3,500 homes across 4,400 acres, which the parish approved for development in December 2023 with little opposition. But Dossett acknowledges Money Hill is in a unique position: her family’s business owns the land, giving them almost total control over the plans for it. They’ve also pursued development at a slower pace than would be typical for most developers. “Not everybody has that privilege when they’re developing,” she said. DSLD has seen more success with building in Mississippi and neighboring Tangipahoa Parish, where home prices and construction costs are lower than in St. Tammany. This year, the company is on track to build 300 homes in Tangipahoa, twice what they’re doing in St. Tammany. “They’re definitely a little bit more open and accepting of development,” Sullivan said of Tangipahoa. Russell Richardson, president and CEO of the St. Tammany Economic Development Corporation, said the parish needs to work together to ﬁnd solutions. “Housing demand is not going away,” he said. “My hope is that we can get more aligned.” For now, Vallee doesn’t see the mentality changing. “Until the parish is willing to accommodate reasonable rezoning, there will be no subdivision development in St. Tammany Parish,” Vallee said. “Perhaps that’s the point.”

Damon Singleton

to watch the latest episode

6A ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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META

Continued from page 1A will now occupy five square miles and is scheduled to be fully operational in 2036. All of this is taking place in a parish with only 19,500 residents according to a 2025 census estimate. Local officials estimate that 8,000 to 10,000 workers are laboring to build it. Many of them live at several dozen newly created RV camps in Richland Parish that enterprising residents have established on plots of land, big and small, that they own. The Richland Parish Police Jury faced pushback after recently prohibiting residents from putting four or more trailers on their property without providing bathrooms and showers onsite. Out-of-towners have established several “man camps” where up to 800 workers live in fully equipped trailers with food halls, recreation centers and industrial-size washers and dryers. Security guards keep out unwanted visitors. Dunn Village, just off Interstate 20 near the town of Delhi, houses about 500 people in RVs and trailers. It begins serving breakfast every day to Meta workers at 4:30 a.m. in its food hall. Everyone has to show their meal card. One of the rules allows Meta workers at the dinner buffet to return for seconds but only after 7 p.m. While most of the workers are men, John Lauve, the co-owner of Dunn Village and another camp that has just opened, said both have areas for single women and married couples. Still others live in local motels and hotels that contractors are fully leasing. Younger workers tend to stay in group houses in Monroe, 30 minutes to the west on Interstate 20, or Vicksburg, Mississippi, an hour to the east. Both towns offer more nightlife. The tidal wave of workers has jacked up real estate prices in both Richland and Ouachita parishes. The Hampton Inn in Monroe, Ouachita’s parish seat, recently quoted a rate of $380 per night. A Hampton Inn in Baton Rouge typically costs about $120 per night. “I’m concerned about protecting rental rates in Ouachita Parish,” said Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis, who is encouraging the construction of more permanent housing. “You don’t want to price your own people out of living in Ellis their community.” Meta officials say the data center will have about 1,000 permanent jobs once it’s fully operational.

Coming from all over Many of the laborers have come from neighboring states, especially Texas, and perhaps 50% of them are Hispanic, according to workers. Holy Tacos, a now-thriving joint in Rayville, 5 miles from Hyperion, invites patrons to stick a pin on a big wall map to mark where they are from. Nearly all 50

STAFF PHOTOS By MICHAEL JOHNSON

Cars fill a parking lot at the south end of the Meta data center site as construction can be seen surrounded by rural farmland along La. 80 in Holly Ridge on Aug. 4.

The recreation center at Dunn Village, where workers spend their free time, features couches, recliners and amenities like a pool table. states are represented, with the biggest concentration of pins around Dallas, north and south Louisiana and western Mississippi. “We’re here to see how much we can bring home,” said Austin, a roofer from Arkansas who declined to give his last name. Like other laborers, Austin has hopscotched around the country to work on big industrial projects. Those jobs typically lasted 10 weeks. “We’d knock it out, then go home,” Austin said, while consuming brisket and a Dr Pepper on a paper plate at the Cotton Patch RV camp. On this job, he has already earned enough money to pay off 75% of the mortgage on his farm in Arkansas. “As long as work needs to be done, I’ll be here,” he said. Austin’s most memorable job came in 2015 when he worked in North Dakota during an oil ﬁeld boom there. He lived in a man camp where fights over money and women were common. “The man camps were rough up there,” Austin said. By contrast, his RV camp in northeast Louisiana becomes quiet most nights by 8 p.m. because the laborers typically start work the next day at 6 a.m., and no entertainment options beckon nearby. Free time on weekends for many workers means going home. “I’m away from my wife,” said Cooper, a project manager from Kansas City who was drinking a Miller Lite at a bar in Monroe’s called

Enoch’s Pub. He declined to provide his last name. “I see her every two weeks. Every ﬂight out of Monroe is full.” Jeff Comben, a logistics coordinator who moved to Louisiana from Washington state and now lives at Cotton Patch, said he does laundry and shops for groceries on Sundays, the one day of the week he doesn’t have to work.

Cars flood the roads Richland Parish Sheriff Neal Harwell said the influx of workers surprisingly has not increased crime. “Knock on wood,” Harwell said in his office in Richland Parish’s five-story courthouse in Rayville. Harwell said his department is receiving 20% more 911 phone calls, but that’s mostly related to traffic accidents on the two-lane highways that surround Hyperion. “There are 5,000 to 7,000 vehicles per day entering the site,” Harwell said. “They have an 18-wheel delivery every 90 seconds. We’re seeing 70 to 80 vehicle wrecks a month. Before, it was one.” Off-duty sheriff’s deputies police traffic at nine different spots around Hyperion, given the early morning and late afternoon traffic jams. Richland Parish never had a rush hour before. “It’s hard for the locals to get to and from their houses,” said former state Rep. Bubba Chaney, a Republican from Rayville. “I guess it’s one of the costs you have to endure.”

Tough work Every day, throngs of workers pull their pick-up trucks at lunchtime into a

gravel lot underneath a sign that reads “Holly Springs Food Park.” There, seven food trucks serve meals just off La. 183, across from Hyperion. On a recent day, Leah and Hannah Childers were waiting for their order to be ﬁlled from Street Eats, one of the food trucks. They stood under a canopy that provided shade in the 100-degree heat. Leah Childers is an electrician who works 58 hours a week. “A woman in a construction site is tough,” said Leah, who is 23 and is from Paris, Texas. “It’s a male-dominated ﬁeld. You don’t get taken seriously.” She added that her employer does treat its women equally. She and her sister live in Calhoun, an unincorporated area west of Monroe. With a 48-minute drive to work, Leah said, she wakes up at 4:30 a.m. each workday. For leisure, they visit Surge Entertainment, which offers games and family fun, in West Monroe, or Trapp’s, which has Cajun food and live music. The sisters drive home to visit family on weekends when they can. Manuel Miranda and his

ARK.

MISS.

Monroe roe

20 Shreveport

49 LA.

Jackson

Holly Ridge: Meta Data Center site Baton Rouge

10 Lafayette

Gulf of Mexico

New Orleans Staff map

brother Noel Garcia grew up in Honduras but came to Louisiana “because here we have opportunities that we can’t ﬁnd in other countries.”

They worked on construction sites in New Orleans but came to Holly Ridge in July to work as roofers for higher pay. It’s not an easy life. They share a trailer just off La. 80 and rarely go out after Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested three of their friends two weeks earlier. Miranda drives to see his wife and son for a few hours every two weeks. Still, the two men are grateful for the work. “We can move forward and ﬁnd stability here,” said Miranda, noting that he has co-workers from Venezuela, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Peru and Costa Rica. “They’re from everywhere.” Billy Clay has long farmed cotton and corn on 420 acres that he owns in Holly Ridge. But he moved quickly to turn 10 acres into the Cotton Patch RV park after Meta arrived. Clay now has room for 120 RVs. Workers are responsible for bringing their own RVs and pay him $1,000 per month for the space and the electrical hook-up, water, WiFi and garbage pick-up. Another RV park, called Boggy Bayou, has more than 100 RVs across the two-lane country road. “It’s going very well,” Clay said. “The Meta facility has made so many millionaires.” Asked if he is now one of those millionaires, Clay wouldn’t say.

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The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ 7A

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ELIMINATE BACK PAIN AND SCIATICA

without the scars and expense of back surgery... Local Doctors at LeBlanc Spine Center are helping Patients eliminate pain, without dangerous medications or painful surgery. Stop Living in Pain-There’s a Better Way

For the next 7 days, we are offering a special Decompression Evaluation- at no cost to you!

Living with chronic pain isn’t just frustrating — it can be life-altering. Whether it’s back pain, sciatica, neck discomfort, or disc-related issues, it can stop you from doing the things you love. Maybe you can’t play golf, get through a workday, or even sit comfortably in the car for 30 minutes. You can’t remember the last time you had a restful night’s sleep. You feel great mentally, but your body is holding you back. Most people don’t realize that spinal discs are often the root cause of this pain. These discs act as cushions between the spinal bones and create the necessary space for nerves to exit the spinal column. But when discs are injured, worn down, or begin to degenerate, they bulge or herniate — pressing on nerve roots and triggering pain in the back, legs, neck, and arms. This pressure doesn’t just cause pain. It can lead to numbness, tingling, weakness, and even issues with balance and mobility.

It is important to note that not every patient is a candidate for Spinal Decompression, which is why we prioritize a thorough individual assessment and X-ray analysis for each person who walks through our doors.

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What does this offer include? Everything we normally do in our new patient evaluations: • An in-depth consultation about your health and wellbeing where we will listen...really listen...to the details of your case. • A complete neuromuscular examination • A full set of specialized X-rays (if clinically necessary) to identify the exact source of pain. • A thorough analysis of your exam and X-rays. You sit with the doctor one-on-one to review your findings in detail.

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We began our practice 14 years ago, and we have helped thousands of patients eliminate pain and reclaim their lives. Due to the high demand, we have 10 advanced decompression machines at our Baton Rouge and Kenner locations. Our state-of-the-art technology is proven to reverse disc herniations and relieve nerve pain in the neck, arms, low back and legs......and we love what we do! Disc issues are common, and patients suffering are usually given limited options of treatment. The most common invasive treatment for disc herniations is surgery. We run these big newspaper advertisements because we want to let people in the community know there is another option of treatment for pain.

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I have been suffering with sharp painful back aches causing immobility for years but came here when my pain was more severe. I began Spinal Decompression treatments at LeBlanc Spine Center and I am now 80-90% improved! I can still do my hobbies and work with less pain than before, I am also sleeping better and I have more mobility. I feel so much better! The staff here is always caring, helpful, and accommodating. The doctors are always assessing and evaluating issues trying to find a solution. One of the best things I like about my care at LeBlanc Spine Center is that everyone is so caring and the attentiveness I receive! I would 100% recommend LeBlanc Spine Center, the staff is always nice and helpful. Dr. Scott and Dr. Dana have always been proactive and thorough when trying to find a solution!

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Before coming to LeBlanc Spine Center, I suffered from lower back pain when standing and a constant dull pain in my lower left hip for nearly three years. I had CT scans, an MRI, and even tried physical therapy, which only gave me some relief. A friend recommended LeBlanc Spine Center, and I’m so glad they did. The doctors and staff are top-notch-wonderful, competent, and genuinely interested in helping their patients. Since starting care, I’ve improved about 80%. I can now stand longer, walk, fish, and enjoy activities that were previously limited by pain. In fact, I’m even planning two vacations this year. Before my visits, I felt like my world was shrinking. LeBlanc Spine Center gave that world back to me, and I recommend them with enthusiasm.

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I came to LeBlanc Spine Center because I had been suffering with severe pain in my low back and legs. My condition was very bad and was getting worse. I had previously tried other doctors and medication. I began Spinal Decompression therapy treatments now 70% improved! I can now tie my shoes, put on my clothes, do some cleaning in my home, and play with grandchildren! I’ve also been sleeping better, and I’ve been able to communicate with my family better. Before I began treatment here, I wasn’t able to do such things because I was in so much pain. What I like most about my care at LeBlanc Spine Center is the staff- they are very sweet and professional. The visits that I’ve had are just great! Dr. Scott and Dr. Dana treat me like I am the only patient they have- they are very caring and supportive to me. I would recommend LeBlanc Spine Center to anyone who needs help with their pain. I have already told several people about the Spinal Decompression treatments- IT WORKS!

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When I came to Dr. LeBlanc, I was having lower back pain, right hip, and thigh pain. I had been suffering between 6-to-12 months. Since beginning Spinal Decompression treatments, I can now walk farther, sleep better and drive with less pain. I have more mobility and less tension. I would recommend LeBlanc Spine Center- I am treated excellent by the staff, and what I like most about the care here is they are professional and precise!

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8A ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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Envoy: Israel did not warn U.S. before Syria air strike BY ANDREW WILKS Associated Press

ISTANBUL — Israel did not warn the United States before it struck an air base in northern Syria this week, despite fears of an escalation with the U.S. and NATO ally Turkey, the U.S. special envoy to Syria said. Israel usually closely coordinates its military actions with the U.S., its key backer. Washington has tried to use this influence to moderate attacks as Israel carries out operations in Syria, Gaza and Lebanon. Tom Barrack, who also serves as ambassador to Turkey, said the attack on Tuesday on the Abu Duhur base could have been Israel “baiting the Turks … that was the serious and worrying part.” However, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz contradicted the U.S. envoy’s remarks about there being no

Pope calls for dialogue over conflict

BY GIADA ZAMPANO and NICCOLÒ LUPONE Associated Press

SAN MARINO — Pope Leo XIV used a visit to the tiny landlocked San Marino and a major Catholic gathering in the Italian city of Rimini on Saturday to issue one of his strongest appeals yet against war, polarization and social division, urging believers to foster dialogue and friendship in a fractured world. Speaking to tens of thousands in Rimini, Leo warned against a culture that “rearms minds, words and nations” and argued that Christians must respond with mercy, encounter and a commitment to peace. He also delivered a message of encouragement to young Catholics, telling them they are “a sign that the future is promising, and not a threat!” Earlier, in San Marino, Leo addressed local authorities of the world’s oldest surviv-

warning, saying in a statement that Israel decided to alert senior members of the Syrian government. “Simultaneously, we transferred the intelligence reports to the relevant authorities in the U.S.,” Katz added. In the wake of the strikes, which caused damage but no casualties, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the base was attacked because Syria was “on the verge of breaching” an agreement by allowing Turkish troops to deploy there. Barrack said it was likely that Israel had intelligence suggesting Turkey may be bolstering its presence in the area and “a commander somewhere in the ﬁeld made a decision ‘We’re not going to let that happen’… What they didn’t do is tell us or Turkey.” He added that another possible reason for the attack on Abu Duhur, around 50 miles

east of the Turkish border, was a miscommunication between the Israeli military and the country’s intelligence agency. “When they (the Turkish military) see these jets coming towards the border and they don’t know what the purpose, direction or intention is, they start to say ‘We’re going to have to scramble our own,’ ” Barrack said as he outlined how close Israel and Turkey came to direct confrontation. In 2015, Turkey had shot down a Russian jet over its Syrian frontier. The ambassador’s comments were published on X late Friday by Mario Nawfal, a LebaneseAustralian entrepreneur. Barrack also said Israel “still” occupies the Golan Heights in violation of U.N. resolutions, despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s 2019 proclamation recog-

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By RIZA OZEL

U.S. Ambassador to Turkey and Special Envoy to Syria Tom Barrack speaks April 17 in a panel during the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Antalya, southern Turkey. nizing Israeli sovereignty over the territory, reversing decades of U.S. policy. Katz, the Israeli defense minister, said the strike on the base was authorized after the “warning wasn’t heeded,” adding there were “clear intelligence reports”

of Turkey’s intention to use the base “to harm Israel.” He did not provide further detail. Barrack’s comments were “full of inaccuracies and positions that contradict” Trump’s position on the Golan Heights, the min-

ister added. Two Syrian ofﬁcials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to comment publicly, said on Wednesday that a Turkish delegation had visited the air base in the northwestern province of Idlib a day before the air strike to review reconstruction work underway there. Israel had raised concerns about Turkish military activity at the air base but the U.S. concluded that was “not happening,” Barrack said. “The unintended consequence of a mistake could be really consequential,” he added. Turkey has been supporting Syria’s effort to rebuild its armed forces by training Syrian personnel and supplying equipment and logistical support. The two countries signed an agreement last year that formalized their military cooperation.

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Pope Leo XIV greets faithful Saturday as he arrives at the 47th Meeting for Friendship Among Peoples in Rimini, Italy. ing republic and reﬂected on the legacy of Saints Marino and Leone, whom he credited with helping create a society rooted in freedom, mutual respect and community. The pope said the two saints translated the Christian message into “a new community and political model, strongly characterized by the Christian principles of freedom, mutual respect and communion” — a legacy that he said continues to shape the republic today. San Marino, a nation of about 35,000 people completely surrounded by Italy, traces its origins to the fourth century. It is governed by a 60-member parliament that elects two captains regent every six months to serve jointly as heads of state, a power-sharing arrangement designed to prevent the concentration of authority. Using the micro state as

an example, Leo argued that small political communities can offer lessons in public service and social cohesion at a time of growing division and distrust. Leo is the third pope to visit San Marino, after St. John Paul II visited in 1982 and Pope Benedict XVI came in 2011. The American pontiff praised a society “built on respect for one’s own freedom and that of others and above all on respect for the sacred Will of God.” He warned that modern societies face increasing threats from violence, social fragmentation and ideologies that put self-interest ahead of the common good. “We live in a world wounded by many conflicts,” the pope said, citing growing violence, closures and fear of others. He urged Christians to respond through forgiveness, solidarity and concern for the vulnerable.

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Congo gets 16K doses of Ebola vaccine By The Associated Press BUNIA, Congo — Congo has received more than 16,000 doses of the Ervebo vaccine as the country grapples with the fastest Ebola outbreak in history, the country’s health minister said. The 16,250 doses arrived at the N’djili International Airport in the capital, Kin-

shasa, late Friday, as part of 70,000 doses expected from the World Health Organization and partners that were announced on Thursday. More doses are expected early next week. The current Ebola outbreak in Congo is caused by the rare Bundibugyo virus, which currently has no approved treatment or vac-

cine. It can spread easily and go undetected because some of its symptoms are similar to other illnesses, such as malaria. The Ervebo vaccine is licensed to treat Ebola and has been effective in past outbreaks. The WHO said it may provide some protection against the Bundibugyo virus.

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10A ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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LOUISIANA POLITICS Johnson, Scalise predict GOP win in congressional midterms WASHINGTON — Speaker of the House Mike Johnson and Majority Leader Steve Scalise — the two top Republicans in the U.S. House, who both want to keep those jobs — are barnstorming the nation to shore up GOP candidates in about two dozen states. Many campaign handicappers, pundits and bettors predict a Democratic wave will sweep Republicans out of power on Capitol Hill. Democrats need to ﬂip only Mark four seats. Ballard But, ever optimistic — and secure in their own races in Louisiana — both LSU grads are predicting Republicans will maintain the majority they’ve held in the House since 2023 and in the Senate since 2025. “This midterm election is going to be one unlike any other in the past,” Johnson, R-Benton, said Wednesday at a Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, rally called “Common Sense versus Crazy.” “I can tell you the energy on our side is incredibly high,” Scalise, RJefferson, said Thursday. “People understand, no matter where you go, that this is a contrast election. And the contrast between our party and the Democrats has never been sharper.” Last week, Scalise was in Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin and other Midwest states before shifting to the East Coast to campaign in South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee and New York. Scalise detailed for the Westside Conservative Club in Urbandale, Iowa, how the Republicans’ signature law, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act enacted last year, cut taxes and increased deductions. He recalled telling voters, many of whom are confused about the new law, about provisions like a

Trump announces Eastern District judicial nominees

President Donald Trump said last week that he will nominate Brad Kelley and Peter Mansfield as federal judges in Louisiana’s Eastern District. Kelly got his undergraduate and law degrees from LSU; Trump referred to him in his Truth Social announcement as a Capitol “Double-Tiger.” A Buzz U.S. Army veteran, STAFF he clerked for DonREPORTS ald Walter, a judge in the Western District of Louisiana, and served as chief counsel to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. He is currently a partner at Littler Mendelson, a multinational law firm. “The people of Louisiana can count on Brad to always protect their Constitutional Rights, and the Rule of Law,” Trump wrote. Mansfield has been an assistant U.S. attorney in New Orleans for more than 20 years and is currently chief of the Civil Division, Trump said in his announcement. He has a law degree from Ave Maria School of Law in Florida and an undergraduate degree from Fran-

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTOS

House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-Jefferson, speaks to a crowd at the Salute to Liberty event hosted by U.S. Rep. Sheri Biggs, R-S.C., on Monday in Anderson, S.C. limit on taxing some overtime wages or a higher deduction for seniors. “You know, 70% of the people beneﬁting from it make less than $100,000 a year,” Scalise recalled saying, adding that Democrats would repeal the bill if they took the majority. Local coverage focused on Scalise’s prediction that, if incumbent Rep. Zach Nunn’s “opponent is somehow able to beat him, they bring socialism, Marxism to Iowa.” Johnson and Scalise say they won’t be undone by stubborn inﬂation, an unpopular war, a sitting president whose numbers are underwater, and voter confusion over the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. They contend voters see this Nov. 3 midterm congressional election as a contest between communism and common sense — a

ciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio. “The people of Louisiana are lucky to have a dedicated Public Servant like Peter join the Federal Bench,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. The Eastern District bench is expected to soon have two vacancies after Lance M. Africk took senior status, and Anna St. John was nominated to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. It was not immediately clear when Kelley and Mansﬁeld would be formally nominated. St. John is still on the Eastern District bench pending her conﬁrmation. Based in New Orleans, the Eastern District’s jurisdiction covers 13 parishes in southeast Louisiana.

State honors WWII POW who was La. native

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-Benton, returns to the House chamber in July. ﬁght, they say, for “the very soul of America,” which is enough for GOP voters to defy history and return Republican majorities for another two years. Scalise pointed to a series of elections in which young progressives ousted established Democratic elected ofﬁcials. The unex-

ing to an executive order by Gov. Jeff Landry lowering the ﬂags. He was captured, survived the 65-mile Bataan Death March, and was imprisoned at the Cabanatuan POW camp, where he died. Richard was buried in a mass grave. But his remains were recently recovered and returned this week to Louisiana to be buried alongside his parents, Landry wrote in the order. “His death in service to our country remains a solemn reminder of the price paid by those who fought for freedom, and the State of Louisiana honors him with the profound gratitude he deeply earned,” the order says.

Medicaid director picked for leadership institute

pected win last week in Florida of leftist state Rep. Angie Nixon over a venerable congressman to become the Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate prompted handicapper Larry Sabato’s Crystal Ball to change its view of the race from a possible to nearly assured GOP win. Republicans have distinct advantages, including having redrawn more seats to favor GOP House candidates, and raising far more money than their rivals. That said, some Democrats are running strong. In solid red Texas, for instance, a scandal-plagued Republican faces a school teacher who studied at Presbyterian seminary, raising the possibility of a Democratic Lone Star senator for the ﬁrst time since the 1980s. In Iowa, the entire slate of GOP state and congressional candidates

Medicaid Executive Director Seth Gold was selected through a competitive, external review process to enter the 10-month program. He joins counterparts from Alaska, Illinois, Missouri, New York and North Carolina. “At a time of signiﬁcant change and growing complexity, Medicaid leaders play a critical role in ensuring that millions of people can access the care and services they depend on,” said Mark Larson, senior vice president at CHCS. “The Medicaid Leadership Institute provides directors with a unique opportunity to develop as leaders, gain new perspectives, and learn from peers facing similar challenges across the country.”

Louisiana launches new tourism campaign

The ofﬁcial in charge of Medicaid in Louisiana is one of six from across the country selected for the Louisiana is launching a new Medicaid Leaderout-of-state marketing camFlags ﬂew at halfstaff across Louisiship Institute, an paign, “Every Moment Feeds initiative by the Your Soul,” Lt. Gov. Billy Nungana on Thursday Center for Health to honor Gurnie esser announced last week at the Care Strategies “Tutie” Richard, a Louisiana Travel Summit in New that helps state Louisiana native Orleans. leadership teams who died in a POW Featuring an original song better operate the camp during World called “Louisiana” by Lafayette multi-billion-dol- Gold War II. native Sean Bruce, the campaign Richard Richard deployed will target regional drive-in marlar program that to the Philippines with the Army helps pay for healthcare for people kets and air travelers. Air Corps in 1941 at age 20, accord- with low incomes. “We are building upon our suc-

are facing farmers who are reliably conservative voters but now are angered at tariffs and high diesel prices, which polls show have moved Democrats out of their usual “also ran” status. The Cook Political Report with Amy Walter campaign analysts shifted their rating of these races from a sure Republican win to a toss-up prediction. “Republicans have an unmistakable ﬁnancial advantage that could revitalize their sagging candidates, but it may not be able to make up for the sizable voter enthusiasm gap that Democrats have on their side,” Cook Political Report wrote less than three months from the election. It’s not just House and Senate races. Democratic candidates for state legislatures scored surprising wins, including in the Pennsylvania district near where Trump survived an assassination attempt during the 2024 presidential election. And candidates supported by the hard-right House Freedom Caucus have been losing primaries at a regular clip. MS NOW television’s “Morning Joe” host Joe Scarborough, who had been a Republican congressman representing Pensacola in the 1990s, told Johnson Wednesday that the Republicans “got no message.” Scarborough pointed to last week’s news that investor worry over inﬂation and a $40 trillion debt has driven up bond prices to their highest level since 2008. “Mike Johnson did himself no favor by going, ‘Well, we would have had a good economy except for, well, this totally unnecessary war that we Republicans started,’” Scarborough said. Email Mark Ballard at mballard@theadvocate.com.

LOUISIANA OFFICE OF TOURISM

The poster is part of the state’s ‘Feed your Soul’ advertising campaign.

cessful Feed Your Soul brand and incorporating messaging with all the things that feed your senses here in Louisiana — our food, music, outdoors, history, culture, festivals and so much more,” Nungesser said in a news release. The state Ofﬁce of Tourism says 45 million people visited Louisiana in 2025, spending $19.5 billion. The tourism industry supports 225,600 jobs statewide, making it the state’s fourth-largest employment category, the ofﬁce said.

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EDUCATION A S K T H E E X P E RT S

La. librarian helps teens love reading Method helps pull students away from screens

Q&A WITH MAUREEN BARCLAy CAPTAIN SHREVE HIGH SCHOOL LIBRARIAN

BY MARIE FAZIO Staff writer

When picky readers walk into the Captain Shreve High School library in Shreveport, librarian Maureen Barclay uses a triedand-true method to help them find books that pique their interest. She rattles off a list of questions: What’s the last book you enjoyed? What movies do you watch? What TikTok videos? What do you do in your free time? “They start reading something, and it’s just like Netflix,” she said. “They get caught up, and once you get them started, they keep going. They keep reading, like they kept watching.” Barclay knows all too well how difficult it can be to get some students interested in reading. Recent national headlines have proclaimed that “The end of reading is here” and “Kids Rarely Read Whole Books Anymore. Even in English Class.” Only 14% of 13-year-olds said they read for fun, according to a U.S. Department of Education National Center for Education Statistics survey released in June. That’s a decline of nearly half since 2012. Researchers often point to several factors behind decreased rates of reading in schools, including increased screen use and, in the classroom, increased pressure to teach to standardized tests. The Times-Picayune | The Advocate spoke with Barclay, longtime librarian and classroom

Captain Shreve High School librarian Maureen Barclay teacher at Captain Shreve, about how she helps students buck those trends. The interview has been condensed and edited for clarity. Tell me a bit about yourself. This is my 21st year in education and at Captain Shreve High School. I started as a classroom English teacher and I moved to the library in 2018, largely because I had been working with the National Writing Project (a professional development network that focuses on writing) as a teacher consultant. Working as a librarian allowed me to reach more teachers and all the students in our school. As a librarian I serve about 1,400 students, helping students throughout the day and teaching research.

Why is reading important? Research tells us that a student who reads just 20 minutes a day is more likely to score in the 90th percentile on standardized tests. We have a schoolwide culture of reading, and we have a 100-million-word reading challenge this year where students and teachers can log too. So everyone is invested. What books do kids seem to be interested in? We see a wide range. It depends on the student and their background and interests. At Captain Shreve, we have a lot of students who are interested in mysteries and thrillers, just like the movies. If you’re a gamer, you’re going to like stories with a lot of action. We also have readers who only want to read graphic novels or students who will say, “The last book I ever read that I loved was ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid.’” That means that they want books that are lighthearted, that are humorous, maybe that are a break from reality. One of my colleagues says, “Oh, they want a book snack.” We want to make sure that we have everything available that a reader could want, that they can see themselves in the books that we have to offer and that they have access to those books in a variety of ways. Our students prefer physical books. They really don’t gravitate to e-books; they don’t want screens for their pleasure reading. Do you have any tips for helping teens find pleasure in reading?

PROVIDED PHOTO

Researchers often point to several factors behind decreased rates of reading in schools, including increased screen use and, in the classroom, increased pressure to teach to standardized tests. First, collaborate with a school librarian because the school librarian is trained and is an expert in matching students with books that they will love. It’s the school librarian who is wellversed in young adult literature, which is completely different from being well-versed in British literature or American literature. That knowledge is crucial to matching students with books that they will love in this culture right now. I’ve learned that more and more across our state there is a school library, there are books in it, but there is not a trained librarian in that facility. In that case, reach out to your local public library. Could you walk me through an example of how you help a student find a book they’ll enjoy? That’s what we do all day, ev-

ery day. I call them picky readers, or non-readers. Maybe they haven’t ﬁnished a book since they were really little because they’re dyslexic or they’re addicted to screens. Or maybe they just fell out of love with reading. I usually ask if there’s something they watched recently that they really enjoyed. Are you into gaming? What do you do in your free time? Tell me about what you’re watching on TikTok? Did you ever read books like “Big Nate,” did you ever read “Diary of a Wimpy Kid”? Usually that student wants a graphic novel because they’re very visual, they have a short attention span, and graphic novels are great because they’re a gateway drug to reading. Email Marie Fazio at marie. fazio@theadvocate.com.

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14A ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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THE GULF COAST Get $25 all-you-can-eat catfish at seafood spot BY TIM THORSEN Sun Herald

PHOTOS By JACKSON RANGER/SUN HERALD

Elmore Wonsley, right, reacts as the crowd sings ‘Happy Birthday’ during a vigil for Nolan Wells at Greater St. John AME Church in Biloxi, Miss., on Wednesday.

Hundreds gather to remember Nolan Wells on his birthday

By The Sun Herald Wednesday was supposed to be Nolan Wells’ 19th birthday. Instead, hundreds of people gathered for a prayer vigil mourning the beloved Ocean Springs teen’s death and celebrating his life at Greater St. John AME Church in Biloxi. “As we celebrate what would have been his 19th birthday, I am reminded as a father of a 24-year-old son and the uncle of four nephews between the age of 20 and 24, how dangerous, precarious life can be for a young Black man in

America,” said Marc Morial, former New Orleans mayor and CEO of the National Urban League. After many speakers offered condolences to the family and urged for answers and justice after the teen’s death off Horn Island, his parents Christine and Elmore Wonsley spoke to the crowd. “This morning I had to ﬁght the urge to FaceTime you and sing my off-tune Happy Birthday song,” Christine Wonsley said. “I miss the warmth of your hugs, I miss hearing you say ‘I love you mom’, I miss everything about you.”

Marc Morial, CEO of the National Urban League, raises his fist as he gives a speech at Greater St. John AME Church in Biloxi on Wednesday.

A building in Gulfport that for more than 40 years was the home of Catfish Charlie is roaring back to life with a new restaurant. Catfish Cuevas, a Southernstyle seafood spot, has opened in the building that once housed the iconic Gulf Coast catfish buffet that closed in March. The new restaurant is the brainchild of the owners who formerly operated Lloyd’s Cabin seafood buffet in Perkinston. Owners said Catfish Cuevas won’t be buffet-style, but guests can expect all-you-can-eat catfish and whole catfish made with an original recipe. The grand opening was Thursday, and the restaurant will be open on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. The restaurant is adjacent to what is reportedly the largest rocking chair in the world. The menu includes all-youcan-eat catfish for $24.99 or chicken tenders for $20.99. Diners can opt for a whole catfish or filets, broiled or fried. Other food options include seafood platters, sandwiches and a plethora of side items.

Opening night was so busy the restaurant had to pause taking to-go orders, owners said on Facebook. “We are incredibly grateful for each and every person who has supported us along the way. Your love, loyalty, and encouragement have meant more than words could ever express, and we pray that you will continue to support us in this next chapter,” the post said. Catﬁsh Charlie, remembered by many for its crispy fried catﬁsh, coleslaw and buttermilk biscuits, will soon be revitalized under the new brand. Catfish Charlie opened in early 1980 and is named for the founder, Charlie Sinopoli, who opened the restaurant with his brother, Gary. Michael Sinopoli started working there with his father and uncle on weekends while continuing at his full-time job. He and Karen met at the restaurant, where she was also working. They helped keep the restaurant going for 10 years before moving to Washington state. They returned in March 2005, after Charlie died and Gary wanted to retire, and kept Catfish Charlie going another 21 years.

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European fires expose, detonate buried bombs, mines Weapons from WWI, WWII increase danger in wildfire fight

BY SAM MCNEIL Associated Press

ELSENBORN, Belgium — The wildfires burning across Europe this summer have exposed a potentially deadly threat lurking beneath the blackened landscape: rusty bombs and mines from World War I and II that threaten crews responding to the flames. Some of the weapons have exploded in the intense heat. Blasts have been reported in France, Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands, where a bomb-disposal team was dispatched to check a forest threatened by flames near a site of fierce fighting in the Limburg province in 1944. Fueled by climate change, the fires and explosions show that the continent’s “climatic luck” is running out, said Sarah Njeri, a peace and conflict scholar at London’s School of Oriental and African Studies. Steady temperatures and predictable rainfall once ensured that most buried weapons

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By MARIUS BURGELMAN

Smoke rises from a field scorched by a wildfire on Monday near Waimes, Belgium. stayed dormant. “Climate change is now doing the work of unburying and reactivating what was previously stable,” Njeri said. Fires can ignite old munitions but can also burn away the scrub and brush that hides them. This wildfire season was supercharged by heavy rains in January that spurred vegetation growth, which became kindling when the summer heat arrived. Those temperatures, combined with drought conditions, low humidity and stiff winds, offered an ideal environment for ﬁre, according to a study issued

last month by the World Weather Attribution group. As they advanced, the ﬂames moved over territory that has long been known to hold unexploded weapons, a lethal legacy that lingered long after the guns fell silent. In a forest in tinder-dry France, a massive wildﬁre outside the southwestern city of Bordeaux uncovered a cache of what is believed to be World War II-era ammunition. In the eastern Belgian province of Liege, Gov. Hervé Jamar said “a few sporadic detonations” were recently heard and that

emergency services were adapting to account for munitions buried in a fire area. He said no fire crews were in danger, but local media published photos of a firefighter handling a rusted bomb. During World War II, booby traps, bombs and mines were sprinkled throughout the province’s dense peatbog forest known as the High Fens. In the first four years after Germany’s surrender in 1945, the munitions killed six civilians, said Bernard Collard, a local historian who runs the Truschbaum Museum near Belgium’s border with Germany that houses a collec-

tion of found objects from the war. “When you go into a forest like this, you are not sure where the explosives are,” he said. He remembers his father detonating a found bomb in a quarry. The fire in the High Fens, which stretches across the border with Germany, is smoldering atop a muchbloodied battlefield where Nazis fought Allied troops. The Battle of the Bulge was fought in and around the High Fens. The fire is even closer to the sites of two lesser-known skirmishes along Elsenborn Ridge and in the Hurtgen Forest, which lasted 88 days and killed about 33,000 American and 28,000 German troops. Collard is authorized to scan with a metal detector the former battlefields, now forests, pastures and farmland. He has found mortar shells, machine guns, helmets, cigarette cases, and once, a human skeleton. “You never know what you might come across, and you shouldn’t take it lightly,” Collard said while standing in a field that was once a blood-soaked site. Nearby, blueberry bushes cover old foxholes, trenches and deep craters from artillery fire.

He frequently works with the Belgian demining squad. “It’s part of our history. We live with it,” Collard said. Unexploded ordnance is even more dangerous around wildfires because heat can trigger the explosives, said Jonas Tepe, a spokesperson for North Rhine-Westphalia, just across the border in Germany. The Belgian Ministry of Defense said it receives requests from the region about every week to assist in disarming explosives, yet it does not consider the area a “hot spot” compared to elsewhere in Belgium. Such requests are even more common in the west, where farmers in towns such as Ypres — infamous for harrowing trench warfare in World War I — call the annual tilling of the soil “ the iron harvest ” because it turns up so many war remnants. Every year across the nation, Belgium’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Destruction Service responds to more than 3,000 calls and disposes of 200 to 250 tons of munitions left over from both world wars. Drought has also helped to lay the past bare by shrinking rivers and lakes to reveal old weapons.

Mexican ranchers prepare to Moke heads toward Hawaii resume livestock sales to U.S. By The Associated Press

Tight controls imposed over screwworm risk

BY FABIOLA SÁNCHEZ Associated Press

HERMOSILLO, Mexico — At daybreak, rancher Martín Alfonso Ibarra takes advantage of the cooler hours in northern Mexico’s desert to oversee the milking of his cows and tend to 16 prized calves. Soon, he hopes, they will be headed north to the United States as a yearlong ban on Mexican cattle imports comes to an end. The ban, imposed over concerns about a ﬂesh-eating parasite known as the New World screwworm ﬂy, dealt a blow to cattle and beef industries on both sides of the border, exacerbating a livestock shortage in the U.S. and hurting a Mexican ranching sector already weakened by drought and a cattle export business that generated $1.2 billion for Mexico last year. Now, the U.S. is set to resume livestock imports from Mexico beginning Aug. 24 at the Douglas, Arizona, border crossing, which borders Agua Prieta in Mexico’s Sonora state. If the reopening goes smoothly, the U.S. Department of Agriculture could allow imports through additional ports, though shipments will initially be subject to restrictions aimed at preventing the spread of the parasite — which has already crossed the border, with au-

thorities battling cases in Texas and New Mexico. The screwworm gets its name from the maggots’ habit of burrowing — or screwing — into a wound, according to the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. Any warm-blooded animal, including wildlife, pets and occasionally even humans, can be infested. In Mexico, the screwworm outbreak was detected in November 2024 and has spread to 30 of the 32 states — most recently in Sonora, where the first case was reported Wednesday in the community of Munihuasa, near the borders with Chihuahua and Sinaloa, states where infections have also proliferated. To date, Mexico has 1,969 active screwworm cases, which represent less than half of the infections reported a year ago, a decline that authorities say shows progress in containing the outbreak. Still, they acknowledge eradication will take time. Against that backdrop, Ibarra and thousands of other ranchers in the northern state of Sonora are preparing to resume live cattle exports. But optimism is tempered by new U.S. controls expected to slow shipments across the border. “This is not over yet,” said the 58-year-old rancher, adding that the export halt cut his income by 40% last year. According to the protocol defined by U.S. authorities, in the first week of reopening, only 700 cattle per day will be allowed through; this

will rise to 900 in the second week and will gradually increase until reaching 1,300 cattle per day, veterinarian Arturo Ruiz, responsible for animal health for the state of Sonora, told The Associated Press. The new rules also require cattle to be fitted with radiofrequency identification tags in their ears and screened by electronic readers and trained dogs. Officials from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will conduct the inspections before allowing the Mexican cattle to cross into Arizona, Ruiz explained. Mexico accepted the U.S. protocols, but the restrictions have frustrated some local ranchers. “We are at a complicated moment when we need authorities to think less politically and more technically and reasonably,” said Juan Carlos Ochoa, president of the Regional Livestock Union of Sonora, referring to tensions between the Mexican and U.S. governments when the ban was first imposed in May 2025. Ochoa said the new U.S. restrictions would limit shipments and argued that a greater flow of cattle across the border is needed to address supply shortages in both countries. Although both countries felt the effects of Washington’s decision, the impact was greater in the U.S., particularly for consumers facing record-high beef prices that led some to cut back on meat.

HONOLULU — Tropical Storm Moke advanced toward Hawaii on Saturday, likely bringing more heavy rainfall and strong gusts to the Big Island, where residents are still dealing with the aftermath of heavy ﬂooding and damaging winds from Hurricane Lala. Moke, which formed Friday in the Pacific Ocean, was located about 470 miles southeast of Hilo, moving west-northwest at 12 mph,

as of 5 a.m. on Saturday in Hawaii. Maximum sustained winds were around 50 mph, the National Hurricane Center said. As with Hurricane Lala, the Big Island is expected to bear the brunt of Moke’s rain and heavy winds as it passes south of a direct hit late Saturday into early Sunday. Moke will then continue its westward path near the islands through early Tuesday, said Casey Oswant, a meteorologist with the Na-

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16A ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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RTA narrows CEO search to 5 candidates Two contenders have ties to agency

The shortlist was shared with city officials and local stakeholders earlier this month, along with a 64-page briefing book compiled by KL2 Connects LLC, a North BY BLAKE PATERSON Carolina-based executive search Staff writer firm, commenting on each candiThe search for a new CEO at the dates’ strengths and weaknesses. The RTA board plans to hold two New Orleans Regional Transit Authority is down to five candidates, rounds of interviews behind closed featuring a mix of both local appli- doors in executive session in the cants and out-of-state contenders. coming weeks before publicly vot-

ing on their preferred pick, board Chair Ann Duplessis said in an interview Thursday. The ﬁve candidates are: n Justin Augustine, the former regional vice president for Transdev Services Inc. n Herold Humphrey, an Atlantabased public transit consultant n Bernard Jackson, the chief operating ofﬁcer at the New York City Transit Authority

n Mark Major, the former deputy CEO at the RTA n Reginald “Reggie” Mason, CEO of the Greensboro Transit Agency in North Carolina. Mayor Helena Moreno also plans to meet with each of the ﬁve candidates, her chief of staff, Kevin Ferguson, said in an email Thursday. The RTA began accepting applications for a new chief executive after former CEO Lona Edwards

Hankins stepped down from the post in May after clashing with the new RTA board appointed by Moreno. The next CEO will be paid a salary of between $250,000 and $325,000, according to the job posting, and tasked with leading an agency that last year counted more than 13.5 million passenger

ä See RTA, page 2B

École Bilingue buys Mignon Faget site Growing French school working on master plan

BY STEPHANIE RIEGEL Staff writer

Mytrell Carter sews fabric at trendzbytrell in New Orleans on Thursday.

STAFF PHOTOS By ENAN CHEDIAK

SEW TRENDy

Custom school uniforms are more popular than ever for students in N.O. BY MARIE FAZIO Staff writer

Anir Carter was determined to make an entrance on the first day at John F. Kennedy High School in Gentilly earlier this month. Not only was it her first day of senior year, it was also the first day back since Kennedy had merged with Carter’s old school, Frederick A. Douglass High School. She wanted to stand out. So Anir Carter enlisted the help of Mytrell Carter, a local designer known on Instagram as @trendzbytrell. The pair designed a custom look in Kennedy’s traditional blue plaid: shorts and a corsetstyle vest over a polo shirt, with plaid trim added to the sleeves and collar. She completed the look with a red beret and matching red socks. “I really wanted to be different and I was,” Carter said. “Walking in my senior year, it felt amazing.” New Orleans students have long added touches of personal style to school uniforms, which are required in nearly every public school in the city. But local

Janice Girod, left, helps Fairi Phillips, a student from Warren Easton High School, put on her custom uniform at trendzbytrell in New Orleans on Thursday. seamstresses and designers said custom uniform pieces have exploded in popularity this year, a surge fueled by social media and, to some extent, the mellowing of once-harsh charter school uniform policies. Mytrell Carter and other designers said

they’re overwhelmed with orders from parents and students, which haven’t abated since the ﬁrst day of school. School leaders said they’ve noticed more students showing up in customized school

ä See UNIFORMS, page 2B

A private French immersion school has purchased the longtime headquarters building of jeweler Mignon Faget at the corner of Magazine and General Pershing streets, a move that opens the door for the growing school to continue the expansion of its Uptown footprint. École Bilingue de la Nouvelle Orleans purchased the centuryold building at 4300 Magazine St. for $1.65 million in a deal that was ﬁnalized Aug. 12, according to city property records. The building, originally a Hibernia Bank branch dating to the 1920s, backs up to the École Bilingue campus on Gen. Pershing. Mignon Faget, an iconic New Orleans jewelry brand named for its founder, has had its corporate ofﬁces in the building since 1997, shortly after it purchased the building. École Bilingue Head of School Pierre-Loïc Denichou said no immediate changes are planned for the property. He declined to say whether Mignon Faget will lease the office space back from the school or move to a new location. “For now, everything is staying the same,” he said. Mignon Faget CEO Maghan Oroszi declined to comment. The purchase comes as École Bilingue, which was founded in 1998, is in the middle of a campus master-planning process. The school currently has 450 students in pre-K through eighth grade and has more than doubled its enrollment in the past decade. The school campus is located in a complex of buildings just off Magazine Street that were once home to St. Henry’s Catholic Church and School. The school closed in the early 1970s. The church closed shortly after Hurricane Katrina. French immersion schools have

ä See SCHOOL, page 2B

Community groups working with Moreno to fight blight

“If we can clean up the cars … to the top of the mayor’s hit list. residential stretch between St. Anhousing issues and to share its ﬁndLeaders in targeted drew and Josephine streets, the try to give you some visual of what Ubuntu Village has pinpointed ings with ofﬁcials. The efforts are part of a strategy had appeared more akin to is changing, that can make life a lot two of the roughest sections of areas keep in contact block a junkyard, lined with abandoned better,” said LeGree. “Just so that Tullis Drive in Algiers and Central to tackle crime holistically, Deputy you can take some pride.” cars and box trucks. City for the Moreno administra- Mayor of Public Safety Michael with City Hall Since taking office in January, tion. It has scanned the area and Harrison said in a June interview. But that was before LeGree, pro-

BY SOPHIE KASAKOVE

gram coordinator with local nonproﬁt Ubuntu Village, told Mayor Helena Moreno’s ofﬁce about the As she turned onto Willow Street “absolute disaster” she was tired in Central City on a stormy August of driving past. City crews hauled afternoon, Dominique LeGree’s the cars off just a few days later, leaving LeGree with her pick of eyes lit up. The last time she drove the quiet parking spots.

Staff writer

Moreno has sought to make good on her getting-back-to-basics campaign promises, which include ﬁxes to streetlights, potholes and a new blight strategy. And community organizations have jumped at the opportunity to put the neglect plaguing their neighborhoods at

conducted resident surveys, work funded through a city contract. A separate group called Communities of Hope, a coalition of faith groups formed in 2024, also signed an agreement with the city in February to conduct neighborhood meetings around blight, crime and

“If we ﬁx all these other things, we can see reductions in crime, reductions in complaints,” Harrison said. “We’re dealing both with bad actors and problematic areas. We’re reducing both.”

ä See BLIGHT, page 2B

2B ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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UNIFORMS

Continued from page 1B uniforms than past years. And students said they’ve noticed an uptick among their peers, some showing up the ﬁrst day with custom coats with puffed sleeves, socks with plaid ruffles or oversized hair bows. “I just felt like I was that girl,” Anir Carter said. “Like, couldn’t nobody tell me nothing about my outﬁt.”

History with uniforms When charter schools proliferated in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, many gained a reputation for zero-tolerance enforcement of uniform policy, violations that could result in suspensions. Students were often suspended for minor misbehavior, such as dress code problems or being tardy to class or school, according to Recovery School District data cited by the Southern Poverty Law Center in a 2010 report. At the time, charter leaders said strict enforcement of rules would create order and a better learning environment. But over the years, after community pushback, some schools have mellowed their approach. Most charter schools still have strict uniform guidelines, but discipline varies by school and network. About 17% of public schools across the country require uniforms and 37% enforce a strict dress

BLIGHT

Continued from page 1B Leaders with the partner organizations say that they’ve seen a real commitment from City Hall. On Tullis Drive, city crews quickly filled potholes, repaired streetlights and tore down an abandoned car wash that had attracted illegal dumping after Ubuntu alerted the city. In Central City, crews have begun assessing damaged streetlights, trimming trees and putting owners of blighted properties on notice, LeGree said. But residents say the neighborhoods are afflicted by more than just physical ailments. They also suffer from lack of job opportunities, youth activities and services, especially for addiction and mental illness. And with the administration warning of deep budget cuts to avoid a $125 million deficit next year, the scope of investment is limited. A list of bond-funded projects the city has delayed to ease its cash crisis included $5 million of infrastructure work on Tullis Drive. City officials did not respond to a question about what specific

SCHOOL

Continued from page 1B become popular in New Orleans in recent years, with five schools now offering programs that are taught almost entirely in French. École Bilingue is the only private, independent French school — the others are charter or public — and follows a French curriculum that meets both French and

RTA

Continued from page 1B boardings across its fleet of streetcars, buses, ferries and paratransit shuttles. The finalists include two contenders with deep ties to the RTA and three outsiders. Augustine began working at the RTA in 1983 and later worked for Transdev, the private firm that managed day-to-day operations at the RTA from 2009 to 2020. The briefing book notes he has “strong ties” to New Orleans, “extensive political relationships” at the local, state and federal level and was recognized for rebuilding efforts after Hurricane Katrina, but notes, without going into specifics, that he has been “involved in several controversies in his career” and that there are “some inconsistencies” in

STAFF PHOTO By ENAN CHEDIAK

Anir Carter, a student from John F. Kennedy High School, poses for a photo in her custom uniform Thursday at trendzbytrell in New Orleans. code, according to the latest data from the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics. “There was a time when we were much more strict about uniforms, and we’ve learned to listen to our families and the kids and the community,” said Read Irvin, a spokesperson for Collegiate Academies, which operates four New Orleans high schools. “Our priority is to have kids in school and learning.” Fairi Phillips also worked with Mytrell Carter to design a custom vest and tie for her ﬁrst day of 10th grade at Warren Easton High School. She also got a matching gray plaid bag for essentials like lotion and lip gloss.

Phillips’ mother, Janice Girod, said Warren Easton leadership told parents they couldn’t add trim to uniform shirts, so they ordered a vest and a few accessories from Carter instead. Phillips said administrators and teachers complimented her outfit. “I put it on for the first day of school and everybody loved it,” Phillips said. “It made me feel like my own person.” Destiny Lokey said she worked with designer Raqkisha Snowton last year to design custom uniforms for her youngest daughter’s first day of kindergarten at ReNEW Moton Lakefront. Social media photos of the look — which included a cap,

projects have been delayed. A statement from the city’s Office of Violence Prevention and City Hall spokesperson Jonah Gilmore said Thursday that “there is currently no additional funding designated for implementation of this work” — speaking of the ﬁndings that Ubuntu Village has sent the city — but that the city’s departments of public works, sanitation and others “have been prioritizing the ﬁndings as much as possible.”

Shifting focus Rashaad Evans passed boarded-up buildings and a vacant lot overtaken by tall trees and grass to reach Kevin Taylor’s stoop on Josephine Street. Evans, an outreach worker with Ubuntu Village, asked Taylor to rank his level of concern, from one to five, on things like gun violence, vacant buildings and lack of access to jobs in his neighborhood. Taylor selected a ranking of “ﬁve” for each item on the list. Infrastructure fixes are just one of the neighborhood’s needs, Taylor said. But they’re an important one.

vest, tie and socks with blue plaid ruffles — went viral. Lokey said Moton doesn’t take issue with the uniforms “as long as it’s school appropriate.” This year, she sent her daughter to school in a beret adorned with a bow larger than her face, a double-pleated plaid skirt and monogrammed jacket. Other schools have stricter rules. InspireNOLA, which runs seven schools including Edna Karr High School, McDonogh 35 Senior High School and Eleanor McMain Secondary School, said in a July social media post that customizations and alterations of uniforms were not allowed. But Inspire CEO Jamar McKneely said the schools expect and welcome students, especially seniors, to show up on their first days in custom attire. But the schools do begin enforcing the uniform policy after the first day of school. According to InspireNOLA’s student handbook, uniform violations could result in minor infractions. McKneely said uniforms help cut down on bullying, puts students on equal playing fields and “allows us to focus on learning.” “We appreciate (first-day outfits), we celebrate them, then we go back to our uniform policy,” McKneely said. Sharon Clark, CEO of Sophie B. Wright Charter High School, said students generally comply with the school’s policy, which offers special sweaters for seniors, blue and yellow shirts for aca-

“I put it on for the first day of school and everybody loved it.” FAIRI PHILLIPS, recipient of a custom school uniform demic achievements and a special honor roll shirt that they can wear with jeans and tennis shoes on Fridays. Students who earn high scores on ACT or WorkKeys assessments are rewarded with not having to wear a uniform the entire year. “We’ve taken their need for uniform swag and incorporated it in standard uniform policy,” she said, “to give our students some differentiation and freedom.”

Business is booming Two decades ago, Mytrell Carter commissioned a local seamstress to make a pencil skirt and add plaid around the sleeves for her eighth grade year at Israel Augustine Middle School. But Katrina hit, and she never wore the uniform. Now Carter, who began sewing about four years ago, rents a studio space in an ofﬁce building in New Orleans East. First the business started with alterations — usually making pants skinnier. Now she’s overwhelmed with custom uniform orders. “Trends always repeat themselves,” she said. She’s not the only one seeing a boom in business. Snowton was battling breast cancer when she took up sewing as a hobby. After

Danny Allen, who grew up in the neighborhood, has done a host of violence prevention work in the area over the past 16 years, resolving conﬂicts and urging people to stay out of trouble. For years, he also spent his own time and money cutting grass and painting houses in hopes the changes would help residents feel safer. With city investment now behind those efforts, Allen hopes residents notice and think, “‘Hey, my voice is not falling on deaf ears,’ ” he STAFF PHOTO By ENAN CHEDIAK said.

Kevin Taylor, right, answers Rashaad Evans’ survey questions on Josephine Street in New Orleans on Aug. 5.

City commitments

photos of a custom uniform she made went viral on Instagram, where she’s known as @khapter_28_by_raqkisha, Snowton found herself with more orders than she could handle. She typically asks parents to purchase official uniforms in large sizes. She then uses the fabric to create several pieces, including ruffles for socks, large bows and bags to match a school’s plaid. In previous years, uniform orders slowed down after the start of school. This year, Snowton said she’s still getting inquiries from students at schools in New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Evelina Harris, a designer known as @theyenvy_designs on Instagram, sewed a vest for her daughter to wear with her school uniform in 2022. She posted first-day-of-school photos and friends began to ask for their own custom looks. This year, she’s been inundated with orders from parents and students in New Orleans, Texas and New York. “I couldn’t keep up with the numbers,” Harris said. “I started in the beginning of June and I haven’t stopped yet, not one day off. ” She did, however, find time to sew an outfit for her daughter Dasani’s first day as a senior at John F. Kennedy High School: knee-length plaid shorts and a jacket with puffed sleeves. Dasani Harris loved the look. “It boosts your confidence level and it’s more school spirit,” she said. opment. Under a nonbinding agreement with the city, the group is set to meet four times a year with the Mayor’s Office to share recommendations. “These congregations want to be meaningful, productive partners in this work,” said Joe Givens, director of the Isaiah Institute, which coordinates the coalition. The group was awarded more than $115,000 in private funding to support its community engagement activities over the next six months, the District Attorney’s Office announced last week. Givens, who has led faithbased organizing efforts since the 1990s, said he hopes that the city will eventually be able to directly support the congregation’s engagement work. “I believe the commitment that Helena made before she became mayor,” said Givens. “At some point when the city gets out of its financial crisis, that they will once again begin to see the need to have a revenue stream for these kinds of programs.”

“I think that would be a good thing to do from the start — to shape up the houses,” said Taylor, looking toward the abandoned shotgun covered in vines across the street that he said has become home to squatters and drug users. It’s hardly the first time that Taylor’s neighborhood has grabbed public notice. Known as the historic home of some of the city’s jazz pioneers and of the city’s civil rights movement, Central City has also faced rates of crime and poverty significantly higher than in other parts of the city.

The neighborhood has seen violent crime decrease dramatically since a post-pandemic surge that gripped New Orleans. But unlike the city as a whole, which has seen shootings and murders fall to unprecedented lows, New Orleans Police Department data shows that Central City has seen those violent incidents climb back up toward prepandemic norms. The persistent cycles of violence mean that the neighborhood has been a testing ground for changing approaches to crime prevention.

Communities of Hope has also seen its work shift since Moreno took over at City Hall. The organization previously partnered with Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams’ ofﬁce by identifying crime hot spots, like a Claiborne Avenue tire shop that was seized in a raid in 2024 or a Central City car wash that was shut down the following year. Now, with buy-in from the Mayor’s Office, the group has expanded to include more than 50 active congregations who have formed Email Sophie Kasakove working groups on crime, at sophie.kasakove@ health and economic devel- theadvocate.com.

cent City’s beloved local brands. Faget, then a young designer, became known for celebrating her native New Orleans through jewelry and other creations inspired by local plants, architecture and cultural touchstones. The business was located on Dublin Street in the Riverbend for more than 25 years in a building that housed Faget’s studio on the Local legacy second ﬂoor and a retail outMignon Faget, founded let on the ground ﬂoor. In the late 1990s, the ofin 1969, is one of the Cres-

ﬁces relocated to the former bank building in the 4300 block of Magazine, which Mignon Faget purchased, and the ﬂagship retail store moved to a building in the 3800 block of Magazine that it leased. Now, that retail building, situated at the intersection of Peniston Street along one of the most desirable and increasingly priciest sections of Magazine Street, is in the process of being sold. Adam Marcus, a local in-

vestor who has owned the building since Mignon Faget moved in nearly 30 years ago, said the pending sale is unrelated to the sale of the headquarters building up the street. “It was just time for me to retire and sell,” said Marcus. He declined to identify the buyer except to say it is a local investor group. He said he does not know what the buyer has planned for the site, which is located in an area that has recently

attracted trendy national retailers willing to pay top dollar for space on Magazine Street. Faget, now in her early 90s, turned over the reins of the company in 2024 to Orozsi, an architect, sculptor and designer who joined the team in 2010. Orozsi said the company had no updates to share on the store’s location.

Dallas. The briefing book describes Humphrey as “one of the most well-rounded candidates in the nation” but notes he has yet to serve as a CEO of a large system. Jackson is the chief operating officer at the New York City Transit Authority, overseeing a $14 billion budget and workforce of more than 40,000 employees, according to his resume. He served in similar roles in Dallas and Los Angeles. The briefing book describes him as a “formidable candidate” with “extremely compelling” experience and notes that while this would be his first CEO role, “it comes at a peak time in his career in which he is well prepared for the job.” Mason, a Louisiana native, is CEO of the Greensboro Transit Agency in North Carolina. He previously served as vice president at Hill International, a consult-

ing firm, and in a succession of transit management roles in Houston, Atlanta and Chicago. The briefing book notes he’s held “significant management roles,” but that this would be the largest CEO role he’s filled. Courtney Jackson, executive director of RIDE New Orleans, a rider advocacy group, said she was encouraged to see candidates with “demonstrated excellence in transit operations at agen-

cies across the country.” “New Orleans’ transit system cannot move into a brighter future without an experienced leader; to move beyond the status quo, we need fresh perspectives and

innovative ideas,” Jackson said in a statement Thursday.

Louisiana state standards. Denichou said the Magazine Street building presented an opportunity for potential expansion that was too good for the school to pass up. “We are always looking for what is best for our students and our footprint in the neighborhood we like,” he said.

his application. Major also began working at the RTA in 1983 and was the runner-up during the agency’s last CEO search in 2023. He filed a lawsuit against the RTA last year claiming he was wrongfully terminated by Hankins, but dropped the suit in July before submitting his application. Major also served on Moreno’s mayoral transition. The briefing book notes that Major has “had several accomplishments during his service” at the RTA but that “his expertise is demonstrated more in ﬁnancial and administrative areas than operations.” Humphrey currently serves as senior vice president at EFESO Management Consultants, with previous stints leading North American transit operations at Jacobs Engineering and overseeing bus operations at agencies in Atlanta and

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New Orleans Area Deaths Boudreaux, Clovis Breithoff, William Broussard, Shirley Constantine, Russell Coote Jr., Christopher Crutchfield Sr., Johnny Hebert, John Karas, Jeffrey Kieffer, Alvin Landry, Betty Lauricella Jr., Leo Le Beau, Joseph Lyles, John Martinez, René Meyers, Stanley Murphy, Orlando Nunez, Donald Pizzo, Bartow Teal, Nathan Thiel, Stephen Troxler, Pearl Wood, Eve Wright, Sheridan

Bill devoted the next thirteen years to serving others as the Director of the Work Activity Center at the Association of Retarded Citizens of New Orleans, work that reflected his patient spirit and generous heart. In 1986, he opened his custom framing shop, Hall of Frame, where for forty years he transformed his customers' treasured memories into lasting works of beauty. Through his craftsmanship and care, Bill helped preserve the moments, stories, and milestones that mattered most to others. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance and gratitude on Friday, August 28, at Jacob Schoen & Son, 3827 Canal St., New Orleans, LA, from noon until 1:30 p.m., when a funeral Mass will begin in the JGS Chapel. Entombment will immediately follow at St. Louis No. 3. In lieu of flowers, Masses are preferred, or donations may be made to a charity of your choice in Bill's memory.

Russell also leaves behind many nieces and nephews. Russel served as a Boy Scout leader for many years and worked as a diesel mechanic until he retired. Russell loved gathering with family and friends for any reason at all. He enjoyed traveling, cooking, gardening, playing cards and games and going out to eat. He also enjoyed watching his grandsons play football, baseball and gaming. He later enjoyed square dancing with his wife Connie with the Ozones Squares Club. Russell especially loved driving to travel around the United States with both his first and second wife. Russell will be missed by all but especially by his wife Connie. Per Russell's wishes, a very small, private memorial was held after which Russell was laid to rest. E.J. Fielding Funeral Home has been entrusted with funeral arrangements. Please sign the guestbook at www.ejfieldingfh.com.

(Diane), Hattie, and James; and, more recently, his son, Johnny Jr., in December 2025. He leaves to cherish his memory his sister, Bessie Minor; his sister-in-law, Luella Crutchfield; his two sons, Brian (Anita) and Damon; his daughter-in-law, Raven; and a host of grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, other family members, and close friends. Johnny will be remembered for the love he gave, the family he cherished, and the simple moments he made meaningful. He knew how to enjoy life without making life complicated. Relatives and friends are invited to attend services on Friday, August 28, 2026, at Garden of Memories Funeral Home, 4900 Airline Drive, Metairie, Louisiana 70001. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., with a service beginning at 2:00 p.m. Following the service, family and friends are invited to join the family for a reception, which will continue until 5:00 p.m.

Coote Jr., Christopher James Hebert, John Edward

The family invites you to share thoughts, fond memories and condolences online at schoenfh.com.

Obituaries

Clovis P. Boudreaux passed away on July 30, 2026. He is the son of the late Clovis Philip Boudreaux and Ella Cotton Boudreaux and will be missed by many friends. Clovis worked as a stagehand on movies and theatres and was a member of IATSE Local 39. Outside of work, Clovis found great joy in rebuilding old cars and motorcycles and enjoyed showing off his finished projects at car shows. A Graveside Service will be held at Garden of Memories Cemetery, 4900 Airline Drive Metairie, LA 70001 on Friday, August 28, 2026 at 10 am at the St. Patrick Mausoleum. Condolences may be offered at www.gardenofme moriesmetairie.com.

Breithoff, William James 'Bill'

William "Bill" James Breithoff entered eternal life and the loving arms of his Savior on August 19, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, devotion, creativity, and quiet kindness. The youngest child born to the late Peter P. Breithoff and the late Josephine Manzella Breithoff, Bill's life was rooted in family and strengthened by love. He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years, Sally Schoen Breithoff; his daughter, Becky Breithoff Lawler (Jay); and his three cherished grandchildren, Annabelle, Judson, and Wyatt, who brought him great joy. He is also survived by one niece and three nephews. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Peter W. Breithoff and Charles A. Breithoff, and his sister, Carole Breithoff Weller. Bill graduated from Cor Jesu in 1963. Following his service in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Prairie and the USS Bridgette, he returned home with a sense of purpose and continued his education at LSU, earning his Bachelor's Degree in 1971. He later received a Master's Degree from Loyola University in 1972.

Shirley Broussard, 87, was called home to be with our Lord on August 15, 2026, surrounded by family. Born August 25, 1938, in Abbeville, Louisiana, she married Norman Broussard in 1954 and shared 71 years of marriage. Shirley loved her family deeply and cherished her grandchildren. She is survived by her children, Nathan and Paula; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren. Services will be August 29 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Erath, Louisiana. Visitation 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Rosary 11:30 a.m. The family invites you to wear red in honor of her favorite color.

Constantine, Russell James

Russell James Constantine, Sr. age 84, of Covington, La passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026, after a brief illness. He was born in New Orleans He is survived by his beloved wife of 23 years, Connie Clause Knieper, stepdaughter, Cherie Knieper Cody (Charles), step-grandchildren Patrick and Matthew Cody, Caleb Knieper, Caitlin Knieper Voebel (Luke), step-great grandchildren Luke, Peyton, Grace and Graham Voebel. Although these were his stepfamily members Russell considered them his family. He is also survived by his children from his first marriage Vicky Carney (John) and Rusty Constantine. Grandchildren: Tom (Samantha), Sean and Jay Carney and Lillian and Sophie Constantine. Great grandchildren Adelynn, JJ, Jackson and Charlotte Carney. He was preceded in death by his beloved first wife Phyllis Clause Constantine, his parents Mary Lue Beaugh Constantine and Charles Constantine Sr., stepdaughter Charlene Knieper, his siblings Charles, Robert "Bob", John, Ray Keith, Margaret Richards, Lee Bergeron and Shirley Ledet. Father and mother-in-law Wilbert Adam Clause, Sr. and Anna Mae (Hadley) Clause. He was also preceded in death by sisters- in-law Carol Clause, Joann Clause Clark and Thias Constantine, brothers-inlaw Freddie Clark, PJ Clause, Garland Nevels, and David Ledet. He is survived by sisters Rena Nevels, and Ella Ryan. He is also survived by his brother's-in-law Wilbert Clause Jr, Joe Richards, Ray Bergeron, Rod Ryan and sister's- in-law Donna Clause, Marie, Brenda, and Sandra Constantine.

E. J. Fielding Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements. Please sign the online guestbook at www.ejfieldingfh.com.

Kieffer, Alvin Peter

Christopher James Coote Jr., of Slidell, LA, passed away on August 11, 2026, at the age of 41. He was born on May 13, 1985, in Bogalusa, LA, and grew up in Slidell. He was preceded in death by his loving grandparents, Reginald John "Jack" Coote Sr. and Rosario "Chari" Benigna de Regil Coote. Christopher is survived by his loving father, Christopher James Coote Sr., and birth mother, Sharon Griffis. He is also survived by and is the beloved nephew of Reginald "Jack" Coote Jr. (Deborah), Ronald Coote (Joy), Evelyn "Dolly" Bergeron, David Coote (Beryl), Peter Coote (Joan), Philip Coote (Wendy), and Alicia Perilloux (Brannon). He also leaves behind, to cherish his memory, a host of extended family and friends. Christopher attended St. Margaret Mary Catholic School, St. Paul's High School, Slidell High School, and Delgado Community College. He had many accomplishments growing up that included achieving the rank of Eagle Scout, earning a black belt in Taekwondo, being awarded the Serra Award (Altar Server of the Year), and Honor Band recognition on the clarinet in St. Tammany Parish. He was also a member of St. Paul's Marching Wolves. Christopher will be greatly missed by his father, extended family, and all who knew and loved him. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a visitation at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at St. Margaret Mary Catholic Church in Slidell. A Funeral Mass will begin at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please have Masses offered or pray the Rosary for the repose of his soul. Memories and condolences may be expressed at www.AudubonFuneralH ome.com.

Crutchfield Sr., Johnny

It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Johnny Crutchfield Sr., who passed away on August 11, 2026 at the age of 81. Born September 9, 1944, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Johnny was a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. He was known for his easygoing spirit, quiet confidence, charm, and ability to find joy in life's simple pleasures. Johnny dedicated much of his working life to Avondale Shipyards, where he became an electrician, and eventually served as a foreman. Outside of work, he was an avid golfer, a lover of good food—especially crawfish and fried fish—and could spend hours playing cards and dominos and enjoying time with family. Johnny was preceded in death by his parents, Wade Sr. and Julia; his siblings, Wade Jr.

Dr. John Edward Hebert entered eternal rest on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at the age of 76, with his beloved family by his side. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Dr. Hebert at 11:30 AM, on Monday, August 24, 2026, at Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Mandeville. Visitation will also be held at Mary Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 1501 W. Causeway Approach, Mandeville, LA and will begin at 10:30 AM.

Karas, Jeffrey Bruce

Alvin Peter Kieffer passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 12:39 PM at his home surrounded by family. He was the son of the late Rosalie Mildred Casey Kieffer and late John Charles Kieffer. Beloved husband of the late Myrtle Mae Slade Kieffer and father of David W. Kieffer. He is preceded in death by his siblings Johnny, Daniel, Louis, Rosalie, Joseph, Robbie and Noel. He is served by many nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank Passages Hospice, especially Anthony, Christina, Star and Ashley. Special thanks to his niece, Karen Kieffer, for all her help during the last 8 months while he was in hospice care. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Funeral Mass at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, in the J. Garic Schoen Chapel of Jacob Schoen & Son Funeral Home, 3827 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA 70119. Visitation will begin at 9:30 AM. Interment will immediately follow at Grantham Cemetery in Bush, LA. The family invites you to share thoughts, fond memories and condolences online at schoenfh.com.

Landry, Betty G.

Dr. Jeffrey Bruce Karas October 9, 1951- August 15, 2026 Born in Davenport, Iowa, to Dr. Harold and Faith Karas, Jeffrey moved to Louisiana at age 8 and made it his lifelong home. He was the devoted husband of Laura Klein Karas for 50 years. A graduate of East Jefferson High School, Jeffrey attended Temple University on a baseball scholarship before earning his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic. For more than 50 years, he served the Metairie community through his chiropractic practice, becoming known for his compassion, dedication, and genuine care for his patients. Jeffrey was an avid reader who continually sought to expand his knowledge of health and wellness to better serve others. His faith in the Lord Jesus Christ guided his life and inspired his commitment to helping those around him. He led by example through kindness, humility, and service. Above all, Jeffrey was devoted to his family, and poured his life into his spouse, children and grandchildren. He is survived by his beloved wife, Laura; children Shannon Karas, Tammy Griggs, Justin Karas, and Juliet Ackel; 8 grandchildren: Abigail, Julia, Grant, Harrison, Thaddeus, Mignon, Harper, and Pearl; brothers Robin Karas, Irving Karas, and Jeffrey Alan Karas; and sisters Scarlett Karas, Connie Landry, and Ivy Hathhorn. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Jamie Karas. Relatives, friends, patients, and colleagues are invited to join his family in celebrating his life and sharing cherished memories. Services will be held at E.J. Fielding Funeral Home, 2260 W. 21st Avenue, Covington, LA, on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, with visitation from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., followed by the service and burial.

and Barry Landry (deceased). She was a loving grandmother to Jef Villemarette, Jason Villemarette (Nicole), Brett Pritchett (Missy), Belinda Rancatore, Richard Landry (Jenny), and Jessy Bayer.

Betty loved spending time with her many great grandchildren and her great-great grandchildren. Nothing brought her more joy than getting the family together for her delicious Sunday meals.

Alvin enlisted in the Navy and served in the United States Army as a Seargent E5 during the Korean War.

Broussard, Shirley A.

Boudreaux, Clovis P.

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ 3B

Betty G. Landry, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2026 at her home in Slidell, LA, surrounded by her loving family. She was 88 yrs old. Born on December 31, 1937 in Thibodaux to the late Gabriel and Louise Gauthe, she grew up in New Orleans with her brothers Thomas (deceased), Richard (Gertrude), and Philip (deceased). She graduated from Sacred Heart High School in 1955. She had a long and successful career with MIC Insurance, a division of General Motors, rising to the executive level. Betty cared deeply for her family. She was married for 64 years to her loving husband, the late Lawrence "Larry" Landry. She was adored by her four children - Darlene Embree (Jerry), Denise Pritchett, Deborah Green,

Throughout her life she enjoyed Jamaica-dancing and square-dancing, cooking, sewing, gardening, bowling, and travel. She was sure in her faith. She was a member of St Luke The Evangelist Catholic Church, where she belonged to The Altar Society and the Senior Group. Funeral Services will be held Thursday, August 27th at Garden of Memories, 4900 Airline Drive, Metairie, LA 70001. Visitation begins at 10:00am, with Mass beginning at 12:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations can me made in her memory to The American Cancer Society or St Luke The Evangelist Catholic Church, Slidell, LA.

Lauricella Jr., Leo Edward

If you ask anyone who knew Leo Edward Lauricella Jr. how to build a life, a movie set, or a damn good meal, they'd tell you the exact same thing he left his daughters with: "It starts with a roux." On August 16, 2026, at 76 years old, Harahan, Louisiana lost one of its truest originals. Born, raised, and forever rooted in Harahan, Edward was a man of huge heart, endless stories, and just enough mischief to keep life interesting. At 17, he and his twin brother, Leslie Edwin, enlisted in the Navy as aircraft firefighters. With identical buzzcuts and an identical instinct for trouble, no one could tell them apart—a loophole they exploited to the absolute fullest. Decades later, Edward and his brother remained fiercely proud of their contribution as pioneers in the Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging (VETSA), helping scientists understand genetics, cognitive health, and resilience. Edward lived life with dirt on his boots and sawdust on his hands. After deciding traditional schooling couldn't hold a candle to real-world experience, Leo took his talents outside with Davey Tree, where he proudly cared for the iconic historical oaks at Oak Alley Plantation. Following in the footsteps of his father, Leo Sr., he had a deep reverence for nature. Whether duck hunting, deer hunting, or taking harrowing sailing trips in the Gulf, Edward was in his element outdoors. He passed that deep respect for the wild down to his daughters, along with an unyielding requirement to visit every single military museum whenever the family camper hit

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the road.

Back home, Edward was a master gardener and an absolute titan in the kitchen. He and his sister, Deborah, spent hours swapping gardening secrets and recipes. If Edward grew it or caught it, he turned it into a feast—crawfish boils, BBQ shrimp, fisherman stew, redfish courtbouillon, mirliton stuffing, and jambalaya. He even mastered his mother Leslie's famed pralines and fruit cake cookies. Every year, Edward and his brother, Edwin, hosted a legendary pig roast at their Harahan shop, feeding the entire community and ensuring everyone left full and laughing. To the film industry, Edward built magic. A proud, long-standing member of IATSE Local 478 alongside his good buddy Chuck S., he started building movie sets in 1982 with The Big Easy. As a skilled construction foreman, Leo helped build the iconic worlds of Interview with the Vampire, O Brother, Where Art Thou?, Monster's Ball, Ray, and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. Yet, no matter how grand the set, his favorite place was always in the RV traveling with his best friend and the love of his life, Pat, whom he married in 1983. Together, they blended a family with his daughters, Dawn and Summer, welcomed their daughter, Stacy, and eventually took on the grandest adventure of all: being Pap-paw to Brody, Joseph, Kasey, Austyn, and Leo.

Joe was a member of the St. Bernard Car Club and the Slidell Car Club since 1989. His 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air, affectionately known as Ms. Alice, was his pride and joy, and he never missed a chance to cruise the coast with the music of the 1950s playing. A proud member of the Andrew Jackson Masonic Lodge in Arabi and a devoted Catholic, Joe lived a life grounded in faith, family, and friendship. He was known for his quick wit, legendary dad jokes, love of dancing, and his unwavering devotion to those he loved. Above all, Joe was a family man. Nothing brought him greater joy than spending time with his children, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren, whose lives are forever richer because of his love. A Memorial Visitation will be held for Joe at Grace Funeral Home in Covington, Louisiana on August 25, 2026 beginning at 10:00AM until Mass at 12:00PM. Joe will be laid to rest at Lake Lawn Park Cemetery.

A proud Freemason (Louisiana Lodge 102 F&AM;) and a Jefferson City Buzzard alongside his lifelong pal George T., Edward marched until his legs said no—at which point he simply started cooking breakfast for everyone else before the Mardi Gras parade. Edward leaves behind his loving wife Pat, daughters Dawn, Summer, and Stacy, five cherished grandchildren, his brother Edwin, his sister Deborah, and his loyal dog, Buddy. He proved that with patience, the right ingredients, and the people you love, you can build a truly remarkable life. Celebration of life is planned for November. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Arbor Day Foundation and planting a tree in his memory.

Le Beau, Joseph

Joseph "Joe" Noel Le Beau, Jr., of Covington, Louisiana, passed away on July 28, 2026 at the age of 89. Joe was born on January 30, 1937 to the late Joseph Le Beau, Sr. and Odelia Le Beau. Joe was the loving husband of Bonnie Le Beau for 37 years. Joe was preceded in death by his first wife, Peggy O'Neil Le Beau. He was the devoted father of Pamela Le Beau Breaux (Kenny), Joseph Le Beau III (Lorrie), Michael Le Beau (Phillis), Jeffrey Le Beau

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(Kristen), David Le Beau (Trudy), Glenn Le Beau, and the late Penny Le Beau Lemmola (Frank). He was the proud Paw-Paw of twenty-one grandchildren, and twenty-one greatgrandchildren. Joe was the brother of Calvin "Butch" Le Beau (Sandra), the late Mary Le Beau Christen (Lester), and Paul Le Beau (Ranna). Joe is also survived by many nieces, nephews and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Lyles, John O.

John O. Lyles of Metairie, LA passed away August 13, 2026 after a brief illness. Born in Ft. Worth, TX in 1945, he worked in the oil fields for the family pipeline business and later retired as an oil company executive. John attended West Point, TCU, Texas Tech Univ., Univ. of MD, and Harvard Business School. After serving 3 years in the Navy, he worked for Exxon in NYC, London, Copenhagen, and Houston before settling in Metairie where he worked for LL&E. His broad interests included math, astrophysics, art, wine, and world travel. He leaves his wife and travel companion of 53 years, Joan; son, Robert; sisters, Anna Jackson and Malinda Cowen; niece, Christina Jackson; and nephew, Greg Jackson. Memorial services will be 11 AM on August 29 at Good Shepherd Anglican Church, 5122 W. Esplanade Ave, Metairie, LA. Family requests in lieu of flowers to support any veterans organization.

Martinez, René Hugues

René Hugues Martinez died on August 15, 2026, after a hard-fought battle with Parkinson's Disease with Dementia for fourteen years. He will be dearly missed by all who knew and cherished him. René was a kind, principled man who lived all aspects of his life guided by his values and faith. He was always generous to those in need with all he had to give. René was best defined by his immense love for both his immediate and extended family. Perhaps most notably, René was an unrelenting supporter of his wife in everything she did, right from the moment that they met on the dance floor of her senior prom. He was a truly committed father to all four of his children, driven by a deep desire to make each of their one and only childhoods as full of love and support as possible. René was a talented designer and builder. Over four years, he completely renovated what became the family home for 27 years. René also was a steadfast supporter of Tulane, the Saints, and the Pelicans, and a beloved coach of basketball, baseball, and soccer at Carrollton Boosters for many years. After those games, he generously hosted swim parties and barbecues at the family home. Beyond that, he opened the family home to over a hundred people each Christmas Eve for a post-Mass gathering, and often hosted celebrations of important occasions for family and friends. René was born on January 24, 1956. At the age of two, he emigrated with his parents from Oran, Algeria, to New Orleans, speaking only French. René graduated from New Orleans Academy in 1974, where he made many lifelong friends. He obtained both a Bachelors (1978) and Masters (1979) in Chemical Engineering from Tulane University, where he was a member of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity. After graduation, he worked at Union Carbide Company. He soon decided to leave engineering to pursue his burgeoning interest in business, obtaining an MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business (1986). Despite his time away, René chose to make his beloved New Orleans his lifelong home. Straight out of business school, he showcased his entrepreneurial spirit by co-founding Legal Advantage, one of the first prepaid legal services companies in Louisiana. He then worked as a senior financial analyst at Freeport McMoran; CFO at McGlinchey Stafford & Mintz; and president & CEO at Optimum Affirmative Action Services. In 2003, he co-founded Pinnacle Affirmative Action Services, for which he served as president until 2017 when the business was sold. René is survived by his wife, Judy Perry Martinez; children, Connor Martinez, Kyle Martinez, Carson Martinez, and Cameron

Martinez; grandchildren, Cecilia Foster-Martinez and Harrison Martinez Weber; mother, Juliette Dubea; daughter-in-law, Madeline Foster-Martinez; and son-in-law, Calvin Weber. He is preceded in death by his father, Joseph Martinez; father-in-law, Alvin Perry, Sr.; and mother-in-law, Denise Perry. He is also survived by his brothers-in-law, Al Perry, Rick Perry, and Rod Perry and their spouses, Peg Perry, Lisa Perry, and Cathy Perry, respectively, as well as beloved first cousins, many special nieces and nephews, their children, and many dear friends. A funeral Mass will be held at Holy Name of Jesus Church, 6367 Saint Charles Ave. in New Orleans, on Friday, August 28, 2026 at 3:00 pm. Visitation will begin at 1:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in René's memory to the Parkinson's Foundation (https://www.parkinson.or g) and New Orleans Mission (https://neworlea nsmission.org). To view and sign the online guest book, please visit LakeLawnMetairie.com

Meyers, Stanley

Stanley Meyers, age 60, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. He was a native of Gretna, LA and a resident of Westwego, LA. Stanley was a graduate of West Jefferson High School. He proudly severed his country for 13 years as a member of the United States Navy. During his military career, Stanley was employed as an Aircraft Mechanic. Husband of the late Daphene Meyers. Devoted father of Stantoria Meyers. Loving bonus father of Tennille, Johnika, and John Williams, and Michael Mann. Doting grandfather of Caleb, Christian, Cameron, and Tiana. Son of the late Warren Meyers, Sr. and Jerry Dean Meyers. Beloved brother of Dr. Robert Meyers M.D., Mark Meyers, and the late Warren Meyers, Jr. Also cherishing his memories are a host of other relatives and friends. Relatives and friends of the family, also pastors, officers, and members of New Hope Baptist Church and all neighboring churches are invited to attend the Celebration of Life at New Hope Baptist Church, 434 7th Street, Gretna, LA on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 11:00a.m. Pastor Warren E. Johnson, officiating. Visitation will begin at 10:00a.m. until service time at the church. Interment: Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, Slidell, LA Arrangements by Davis Mortuary Service, 230 Monroe St. Gretna, LA To view and sign the guest-

book, please go to www.da vismortuaryservice.com.

Murphy, Orlando Stephen 'Steve'

Orlando Stephen Murphy, Jr., age 83, passed away peacefully on August 18, 2026, at Audubon Retirement Village on Henry Clay Avenue in New Orleans. He was born at Mercy Hospital on Annunciation St. in New Orleans on May, 18, 1943, to the late Pearl Lawrence Murphy and Orlando Stephen Murphy, Sr. He is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Kathleen McCoy Murphy; his cherished daughters and sonsin-law, Maureen Genois (Charles), Kelly Almerico (John); his adored grandchildren, Andrew Genois (Elizabeth), Alexander Genois, Jack, Brady, Charlotte Almerico and his great-granddaughter, Margaret Genois. Also survived by his brother, Timothy Murphy (Lisa); sisters-in-law, Karen Spellman, Patti Massett (Raymond), Nancy Murphy; nephews Brad Murphy (Amy), Brian Spellman (Alyssa), and nieces Ashley Murphy and Melissa Bradshaw (Beau). He is preceded in death by his parents, Pearl and Orlando; his brother, Larry, and his brother-in law, Elmo Spellman. Steve was born in New Orleans and raised in Gretna surrounded by his loving grandparents, great -grandparents, aunts, uncles, numerous cousins and family friends. His parents lived above their neighborhood grocery store on Derbigny Street in Gretna which was started by his maternal grandparents. It was during those early years that he developed a true passion for connecting with people. He attended Gretna #2 Elementary School and his beloved St. Aloysius High School on Esplanade Avenue where he graduated in 1961. While at St. Aloysius, he played football and made lifelong friendships that he enjoyed until his final days. He was a diehard Crusader alumnus who throughout his years attended as many functions and sporting events as possible. Steve graduated from Louisiana State University in 1966 with a degree in political science. He was a member of the U.S. Army Reserve. He and Kathleen married in 1969 at St. Anthony of Padua Church and lived in Lakeview until 1974 when they moved their young family to Terrytown where they have resided for the past 52 years. Steve began a career as a social worker for the State of Louisiana's Welfare Department. He went on to become a life insurance agent with Sun Life of Canada and later a benefits consultant for the Jefferson Parish Clerk of Court. His love of people, politics, sports, Mardi Gras, food and the dedication he had to his Catholic

faith inspired him to become involved in many organizations throughout his life. He was a member of the Terrytown Civic Association, The Krewe of Grela, a board member of Victims and Citizens Against Crime, The Gretna Food Bank, Brother Martin's Alumni Association and the St. Anthony of Gretna Parish Council while also volunteering for many church events including parish fairs. While staying busy, the absolute light of his life were his grandchildren. He never missed an event for them and was continuously encouraging and listening to them, giving loving advice and guidance and always singing their praises. He will forever be missed by his loving family and friends. Relatives and friends are invited to attend visitation at St. Anthony Catholic Church, 924 Monroe Street, Gretna, La., on Thursday, August 27, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. The funeral Mass will begin at noon. Interment will follow in Westlawn Memorial Park Cemetery in Gretna, La. Arrangements were handled by Mothe Funeral Home. The family would also like to thank the staff members at Ochsner Westbank Medical Center, Ochsner Skilled Nursing, ACG Hospice, Audubon Retirement Village and Notre Dame Hospice. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a gift to St. Anthony Church in Gretna and The St. Aloysius Century Foundation in support of Brother Martin High School. Memorial gifts can be made online at https:// www.brothermartin.com/g iving/memorials/ or mailed to: Brother Martin Advancement Office 4401 Elysian Fields Avenue New Orleans, LA 70122

Nunez, Donald Martin

Funeral Mass for Donald Martin Nunez, age 92, of Carriere, MS, who passed away Tuesday, August 18, 2026, will be held Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at 11:00 am at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. Visitation will be Tuesday, August 25, 2026 from 10:00 am until 11:00 am at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. Burial will be in New Palestine Cemetery under the direction of McDonald Funeral Home. Father Bernard Papania will officiate the service. A native of St. Bernard, LA, he was a Engineer and a member of St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. Donald was a very gentle and loving husband and father. He loved his family and dear friends. Camping and traveling were some of his favorite memories, making a lot of wonderful

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friends along the way. Donald will be deeply missed by his loving wife, children, grandchildren, and friends.

Teal, Nathan Vincent

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leon Nunez, Sr. and Agnes Serigne Nunez; siblings, Leon Nunez, Jr., August Nunez, Nelson Nunez, Sr., Agnes Licciardi and Leona Prats. Left to cherish his memory are his loving and devoted wife of 72 years, Jeannette Marie Nunez; children, Melanie (George) Schmidt, Kelly (Marlene) Nunez, Sr., and Sharon (Paul) Drake, 6 grandchildren, Shannon (Benny) Pentney, Dana Landry, Kelly (Kristin) Nunez, Jr., Jonathan (Diana) Lafuentas, Nick Drake, and Seth (Maegan) Drake; 9 great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews. The family would like to express their gratitude to Enhabit Hospice for their wonderful care during their time of need.

Pizzo, Bartow Bridges

Nathan Vincent Teal, of Harvey, La, following a long illness passed away at home on August 9, 2026. His parents were the late Felix J. Teal Sr, and the late Edna Sylve Teal. He is survived by his brother, Felix J. Teal Jr, and his son, Nathan Vincent Lucas. "Nick will be joined in heaven by his beloved dog Midnight, who passed a while back. He was a career welder, a former amateur boxer, and someone who lived life to the fullest. A devout friend of Jesus. He loved to fish and was a serious bicyclist. We will miss his big smile, big voice and big spirit. Memorial Services to be announced at a later date. Guestbook Online: www.anewtraditionbegins .com (504)282-0600.Linear Brooks Boyd and Donavin D. Boyd Owners/Funeral Directors.

Morrison Healthcare. He was a dedicated manager who enjoyed working with his coworkers and friends. The love of Steve's life was his children and his family. His second great passion was fishing, especially in Shell Beach. He began fishing at the age of three with his father, Steve, and grandfather, Angelo. He fished every chance he could get with his fishing friends, his children, and family members. Sincere thanks to his family for all the love and support they gave him. Special thanks to his close fishing friends in Shell Beach, who were always together for the enjoyment of the sport and for their sincere, loyal, and lifelong friendship. He will be deeply missed by all. Relatives and friends are invited to attend visitation on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at Greenwood Funeral Home, 5200 Canal Blvd., New Orleans, LA, from 9:00-11:00 a.m., with Mass to follow at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place immediately after the service at Greenwood Cemetery.

Troxler, Pearl Rivet

Bartow "Bart" Bridges Pizzo, beloved wife, mother and grandmother died on August 20, 2026 at 90 years of age. She was born in New Orleans on August 6, 1936. She graduated from Newcomb College where she was a member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority. She worked as a social worker for Catholic Charities before marrying and raising her four children. She was a devout Catholic and 60-year parishioner of St. Francis Xavier Church. While she engaged in many volunteer efforts over the years with her church, alma mater, and her children's schools, what meant more to her than anything else was her volunteer time at Covenant House and particularly the mentorship she provided one former resident for decades. "I love people" is a phrase she often stated, which spoke to her gift of connection to others through warmth, love, compassion, and empathy - that was magnetic and drew so many people to her. She was a second mother to many and a friend to all. She epitomized beauty on both the outside and within, yet with an unmatched modesty. She was a nurturer and often stated that her greatest achievement in life was raising her "four amazing children," who she described as marrying wonderful people and giving her nine beloved grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Peter Joseph Pizzo, Jr., her mother Shirley Devlin Bridges, her father Charles Scott Bridges, and her brother Ambassador Peter Scott Bridges. She is survived by her four adoring children, Ann Clayton Chamberlain (John), Page Castle (Ed) of Kensington, MD, Peter Joseph Pizzo, III (Maria) of Atlanta, GA and Sarah Pizzo Maholchic (Adrian) of Arlington, VA; and her nine grandchildren, Pierson Hughes Castle, Clayton Johnston Castle, William Reilly Castle, Joseph Dickson Bridges Chamberlain, Nicole Ann Pizzo, Peter Joseph Pizzo, IV, Victoria Amelie Pizzo, Andrew Oscar Pizzo, and Margot Carroll Maholchic. She is also survived by her sister, Mary Bridges Wiggenhorn, many nieces and nephews, and her longtime friend Glenna Gillespie Kramer. If so desired, donations can be made to the St. Francis Xavier Food Bank, 444 Metairie Rd, Metairie, LA 70005. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Mass at Lake Lawn Funeral Home 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124 on Saturday, August 29, 2026 at 11:00 am. Visitation will begin at 10:00 am until service time. Burial will be private.

Thiel, Stephen David

In loving memory of Stephen David Thiel, Jr., who was born March 6, 1975, in Houston, TX, and was a lifelong resident of Metairie, LA. On August 16, 2026, he passed away peacefully in his favorite place, his fishing camp in Shell Beach, LA. He was 51. Steve is loved and cherished by his family and friends and will be sadly missed. He is the son of Stephen David Thiel, Sr. and Vicki Caronna Thiel. He is the brother of Ryan Douglas Thiel (Katherine) and Renee Thiel Cure (the late Lester Anthony Cure). He is the beloved father of Jacobi Stephen Thiel (Julia), Jade Marietta Thiel, and Gianna Isabella Thiel, and a special uncle to Coen Anthony Cure. He is the grandson of Carole Caronna and the late Angelo Vito Caronna, Betty Achor Thiel and Vernon Louis Thiel, Jr., and is survived by many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. Steve was the former spouse and friend of both Stacey Palumbo Thiel and Aimee Randolph Burslem. In 1993, he graduated from Brother Martin High School, where he was captain of the track team and captain and quarterback of the football team. In 1998, he graduated from the University of Southwestern Louisiana at Lafayette (USL) with a degree in Business and Hospitality Management, where he was a member of PKT Fraternity. For over 20 years, he was employed as an Executive Chef with

Pearl Rivet Troxler entered into eternal rest on August 17, 2026. Beloved wife of Larry A. Troxler Sr for 68 years. Mother of Gerald Troxler (Toni), Debbie Jo Jensen, Kevin Troxler (Peggy), Geralyn Vander Meulen (Lammert), Larry Troxler (Gwen), and Stacie Fontenot. Daughter of the late Valrie and Viola Rivet. Survived by 14 grandchildren and preceded in death by two grandchildren, Joshua Ryan Troxler and Kenneth Dufour Jr; and one great grandchild, Raymond Anthony Troxler. Also survived by 21 great grandchildren, three great great grandchildren and her faithful fur baby Lulu. She was a graduate of Westwego High School and Nicholls State University. She was a kindergarten teacher and homemaker. She was a parishioner of Holy Rosary Catholic Church. Pearl was a loving wife, mother and grandmother whose greatest joy in life was spending time with her family. Her family was her heart, and she treasured every moment shared with those she loved. She also had a special place in her heart for her beloved fur baby, Lulu, who brought her endless companionship and love. She was a woman of strong Catholic faith, and her faith provided her with strength, comfort, and guidance throughout her life. For many years, she found great fulfillment as a kindergarten teacher and caregiver, where her gentle spirit, patience, and love touched the lives of countless children. She had a gift for making others feel loved and cared for. Above all, she loved fearlessly—with her whole heart, without reservation,

and without limits. Her love, kindness, and devotion to her family will remain a lasting part of the lives she touched. Relatives and Friends of the Family are invited to attend the Visitation at Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Hahnville, LA on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 from 9 AM until Funeral Mass time at 11 AM. Interment will follow in Holy Rosary Cemetery, Taft, LA. Mothe Funeral Homes entrusted with funeral arrangements.

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on Friday, August 28, 2026 at 11:00 am at E J Fielding Funeral Home, 2260 West 21st Avenue, Covington, LA and the visitation will begin at 10:00 am until service time. Interment will follow in Pinecrest Memorial Gardens. Special thanks to Patrick J. Drury, Gary Herrington and Stepheny and Jeremy Schmidt, Sr. for their love and care. E.J. Fielding Funeral Home has been entrusted with funeral arrangements. Please sign the guestbook at www.ejfieldingfh.com.

Wright, Sheridan Godbold

Wood, Eve Barrilleaux Vallery

Eve Barrilleaux Vallery Wood passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 9, 2026 in Jefferson, LA. She was 94. She was preceded in death by her daughters, Diane Vallery Drury and Suzanne Vallery Herrington, and her husbands, Earl Vallery, Sr. and Stanley J. Wood and her fiancée Benny Carouso "Love of her life" and her siblings, Wilfred Bourgeois, Sr., Joseph Bourgeois, Nelson Bourgeois, Judith B. Morgan, Blenia B. Miller, Clifford Barrilleaux, Edgar Barrilleaux, Jr. and John L. Clark, Sr. She is survived by her son, Earl A. Vallery, Jr. and her sons-in-law, Patrick J. Drury and Gary Herrington, her grandchildren, Jennifer Drury Callias and Jason Bernard Vallery and also survived by a host of nieces and nephews. She was a graduate of Sophie B. Wright High School and retired from Deluxe Check Printers. She was a member of St Anselm Catholic Church in Madisonville, LA and was a member of the St Joseph Altar Society. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Memorial Service

Sheridan Godbold Wright, age 82 years young, was received into heaven on August 15, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia. She was a New Orleans native, born on August 18, 1943, and moved to Atlanta to be with her two daughters in 1990. She is survived by her two daughters Deborah Bielski (Andre), and Sheridan Tischendorf (John); and preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Jeautel Roche Wright, all shared with her former husband, Samuel Archinard Wright, III. Also survived by her grandchildren, Taylor, Amelia, Blake, and Averie as well as her brothers James Julian "Jim" Godbold Jr. (Carol), David Roche Godbold (Cindy), and Mark Alan Godbold (Penny). She was also preceded in death by her loving parents, Lorraine Henriques Godbold and James J. Godbold, and siblings, Gerald Robert "Jerry" Godbold, and Deborah Lorraine Godbold. Her early work life included the Louisiana Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism as well as NASA Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans, LA. She stepped away from working to devote herself to raising her

daughters. In Atlanta, she worked as an Executive Assistant for Prudential and MetLife where she met one of her closest friends. She was also an avid tennis player and found great joy in coaching her daughters' high school tennis team at the Academy of the Sacred Heart in New Orleans.

Sheridan was a devoted mother, daughter, and grandmother and was the perfect example of motherhood. It is fitting that her day of passing was on the feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Mother Mary as she modeled her life after her. She sacrificed everything for her loved ones with joy and a smile. Her grandchildren cherish the memories of their weekly Saturday night sleepovers at her house. We will miss her voice, her laughter, her stories, and simply knowing that she was there. We are grateful for every year, every memory, and every moment we were blessed to have with her. Her great love is her legacy. Special thanks to her loving caregiver and friend, Susan Short, for always being there for Sheridan when we needed her the most. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Funeral Mass at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home, 5100 Pontchartrain Blvd., New Orleans, LA, 70124, on Saturday, August 29, 2026, with the visitation at 10:00 A.M. followed by Mass in the chapel beginning at 12:00 P.M. Interment will follow immediately afterwards at Greenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in memory of Sheridan and in loving honor of her beloved daughter, Jeautel Roche Wright. To donate, please visit: www.stjude.org/donate Please visit and sign the family guestbook at www.lakelawnmetairie.co m.

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6B ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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OPINION N O L A.C O M/opinions

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As LIT moves forward, it’s time for obstacles to clear The Louisiana International Terminal, which would revitalize the state’s maritime economy, got an important green light last week as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers gave approval to key permits necessary for the construction of the project in Violet, about 17 miles downriver of New Orleans. For years, officials with the Port of New Orleans have argued that LIT is needed as the larger and larger container ships increasingly used to transport cargo today can no longer be handled at the current port because they can’t safely pass under the Crescent City Connection bridge. With this latest permit authorization, the focus now turns to preparing the site for construction. Building access roads and making the ground ready for heavy equipment could start as early as this fall, but even if all goes well, it could take until 2031 before the terminal is fully operational. We have supported the plan to construct the terminal as necessary to keep the state competitive for shipping traffic. So we are glad to see that the project is continuing to move forward. Significant hurdles remain. The project still needs to secure some financing, and strong public opposition in St. Bernard Parish has proved hard to satisfy. Three lawsuits in the courts seek to stop some aspects of the project. But when we look to the future, it’s easy to see what the port would give Louisiana rather than what it would take away. When complete, the LIT will span more than 600 acres with a container yard capable of holding more than 62,850 containers at any given time, according to planning documents. That would include 10 cranes capable of loading and unloading two “ultra large” container vessels at the same time. It would be a boon for the region, and the nation, as the Mississippi provides an important corridor for goods through the center of the country. A study by Greater New Orleans, Inc. puts the economic impact at $100,000 in new tax dollars per day and said that jobs at the port could increase by more than one-third. We applaud state leaders and economic development officials for making this project a priority. In particular, Michael Hecht, head of GNO, Inc, whom Gov. Jeff Landry tapped to move the LIT forward after years of little progress, and PORT Nola President and CEO Beth Branch have been tireless in their efforts to bring the project to fruition. It’s past time for everyone in the state to get behind a critical piece of infrastructure that will position Louisiana at the forefront of the global shipping economy. A rising tide lifts all boats, as the saying goes. We strongly believe that the LIT will be a beacon to draw more economic activity to our shores. And there’s no good reason not to support that.

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Discussing fertility and podcasting Monica Lewinsky has a podcast sky and Janney discussing religion, called “Reclaiming.” In a vast sea of even if the story Janney told was podcasts, hers stood out at the right distressing: She remembered havtime as she and the political ing been told by an instructor world hit upon the same genthat God was on the other side of a brick wall and it is her job eral topic: women’s fertility. to knock down the wall. Yikes. The White House press Imagine hearing that as a young secretary recently appeared person. God would look mean on Lewinsky’s podcast. Well, and unreachable. It’s no wonder the TV version of the press Kathryn that the actress pursued a less secretary, at least — Allison Jean traditional and more vibesJanney, who played that role Lopez based spirituality, as she went on “The West Wing.” Karoon to discuss. line Leavitt, Donald Trump’s But “Reclaiming” is in the news bereal-life — or what passes for it in this administration — press secretary, cause Janney and Lewinsky discussed recently announced she is stepping fertility, and, of course, because Rep. down to spend more time with her Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez made a two young children. And, at the same political news story and social media time, a certain left-wing congresshay out of her decision to freeze her eggs. person who may harbor presidential But the Lewinsky-Janney converambitions was sharing details of her experience with the egg-freezing pro- sation is helpful because neither of them is an ambitious politician. cess on social media. The host might understandably As Lewinsky and Janney talk about spend her entire life avoiding anyon the podcast, we often don’t know as much as we should about the most thing related to the White House fundamental, intimate things that — she even admitted that she only impact us the most. And that’s not all watched “The West Wing” once she fertility-related, of course. got to be friendly with Janney, for I, for one, was happy to hear Lewin- fear of intern jokes and, well, memo-

ries of that presidential culture. Janney and Lewinsky also discussed religion and the basic human longing to return to the eternal from which we were created. We learn about a Scientology info session (Lewinsky — and it was really for a friend) and doctorassisted ketamine therapy (Janney), and a joint desire for a silent weekend retreat (more like Monica will do it if Allison finds one — and I do have ideas for them! Probably more traditionally Christian than they are thinking, but it sounds like they have open minds). That’s probably the best thing about podcasts. We’re on our phones constantly, and sometimes we just happen upon people talking about something important, something that we may have been thinking about in our reflective moments — or hearing less reflective people argue about on social media. Sometimes, we find deep meaning and ideas that unite us in unexpected places — even from celebrities on podcasts. Email Kathryn Jean Lopez at klopez@nationalreview.com.

Regional issues rise to the fore of life. The saying used to go: Thank The newspaper’s individual newsGod for Mississippi, or we would be rooms put a strong focus on local relast in the nation on several porting, but as an organization, metrics. But recently, we are we are also committed to having seeing Gulf South states excel a broader focus on issues that in ways that would have been matter not only to our state’s unthinkable in the past. Espelargest cities, but to the entire Gulf Coast region. It’s no secret cially in education, Louisiana that there are many issues that and Mississippi in recent years Arnessa have topped the nation for transcend state boundaries — Garrett growth in scores. climate change, for example, or even surging prices for highIn addition, our economies in end real estate. this region are linked in myriad ways. There’s much that connects us as For many years, Louisiana and other a Gulf South region, and our news Gulf South states have shared similar content is including more and more of trajectories when it comes to growth those stories. We see interest in cover- and development. Major projects in Mississippi or Alabama can affect jobs age of criminal justice cases across in our state as well — and vice versa. the South. We know many of you have So we welcome letters and feedback relatives across the area or enjoy vafrom our readers across the Gulf cations in states adjacent to ours. So Coast. Our region has shared history, news from the region matters to you. traditions and culture that make us Louisiana is often compared to its neighbors — especially when it comes want to see more conversations across state lines. to education, poverty rates or quality

Turning to our letters inbox for the week of Aug. 6-13, we received 45 letters. The topic that drew the most interest was the ongoing debate over socialism and what it means. That prompted five letters. Next, we received two letters about Sen. Bill Cassidy’s vote to approve the nomination of Attorney General Todd Blanche. Then two letters on SpaceX’s reported plans to build a spaceport in Vermilion Parish. For the week of Aug. 13-20, we received 51 letters, but no topic overwhelmingly stood out. We received three letters about the ongoing fight between state officials and the city of New Orleans and three letters about President Donald Trump’s plans to build a ballroom at the White House. Arnessa Garrett is Deputy Editor | Opinion Page Editor. Email her at arnessa.garrett@theadvocate.com.

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ARNESSA GARRETT STEPHANIE GRACE WILL SUTTON QUIN HILLYER FAIMON ROBERTS

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ 7B

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COMMENTARY Effort to revive a broken NORD is long overdue must have the interpersonal skills The New Orleans Recreation to manage the complex interplay Department is a mess. Mayor between the NORD Commission Helena Moreno knows city resithat hires and directly oversees dents passionately want NORD fixed. She has instituted a promis- him, the NORD Foundation that raises money to help suping process to fix it. The biggest early task, though, port the organization, is finding a new CEO. the city government’s At an Aug. 19 forum Department of Parks and on the CEO search at the Parkways, and the city’s Milne Recreation Center, elected leaders. community participants (But no: He won’t be Quin made clear their expectaexpected to leap tall buildHillyer tions and demands for the ings in a single bound.) new leader will be chalFrom 155 applicants, the NORD Commission will whittle lenging. down to three finalists to be preThey want someone with the requisite experience managing sented at an Oct. 6 forum at the recreation programming and City Council chambers. Whoever facilities management; someone is hired will face a plenitude of who is inspirational and engagcomplaints about NORD facilities and operations. While audience ing; and someone who either knows well or adapts very quickly members said some quite nice things about on-site personnel at to what one audience member NORD facilities, the satisfaction aptly described as this city’s level with the overall system, acneighborhoods that are “cultural enclave[s]” which are “very discording to interim results from a NORD website survey open until tinct, very different and very midnight Aug. 24, was 30% very personal.” dissatisfied compared to just 9% That combination of CEO atvery satisfied, with other responstributes already would be a rare package. Left unstressed by es bunched evenly in the middle. the audience, but also of utmost Just to cite problems mentioned importance, is that the new CEO by the 50 audience members in

attendance at Milne, they range from a swimming pool out of use for five years to a showerhead unable to be turned off for seven years, to massive scheduling snafus, communication lapses and plenty more. When Moreno toured three NORD parks on Aug. 14, she found overgrown fields, clogged lagoons, nonworking commodes, broken benches and invasive trees. In an Aug. 18 interview in her office, she said that although a lot of those “cosmetic” things are primarily the responsibility of the NORD Commission, she now is directing the city’s property management department to start “painting tables and benches, fixing bathroom doors, fixing some flooring,” and other things that won’t “cost a lot of money.” For longer-term solutions, the mayor has been proactive. Her transition team included an advisory group on NORD operations, and once in office she appointed a task force led by Chief Administrative Officer Joe Giarrusso and Chief of Staff Kevin Ferguson. It will look at longer-term operational improvements for the system, including whether the balance of

authority between the commission and city government might need to be tweaked. She also appointed a new batch of people to the NORD Commission and has encouraged revitalization of the NORD Foundation. Reports are that the mayor’s task force is open-mindedly considering all management options (some of which might require amending the City Charter), from the NORD Commission going fully independent all the way to rolling it completely under the oversight of the city government, or perhaps just lesser but focused adjustments. Commercial real estate executive Ryan Berger, who served on the transition advisory group and formerly was board chairman of 18th Ward, a nonproﬁt that provides sports programming largely outside the offerings provided by NORD, was elected this month as vice chair of the NORD Foundation. He praised the new administration’s “methodical and community-engaged path toward real improvement at NORD.” Berger is conﬁdent that whatever emerges, clearer lines of re-

sponsibility and more collaborative and efficient operations will result. In turn, that should give the foundation a greater ability to “mine strategic partnerships, with more willing donors who will be confident their dollars will be better shepherded.” Moreno said much the same. “NORD isn’t a fiefdom,” she said. “The people of the city have waited too long, so we have to get a new CEO … (and then) grow our partnerships. How do we bring in partners to provide as many opportunities as possible?” New Orleanians are famously enthusiastic about sports and recreation. If the right, dynamic CEO is found, with a more supportive and efficient governing structure behind him or her, the CEO should find a great opportunity. Former City Council member Arnie Fielkow, speaking from the audience at the forum, said the right CEO will arrive and fall in love with the city and never want to leave. Put another way, Fielkow aptly said, “Applicants should see this as a legacy job.”

Email Quin Hillyer at quin. hillyer@theadvocate.com

If schools must post Ten Commandments, let’s talk about them If there’s a silver lining to the appearance of posters outlining the Ten Commandments on schoolhouse walls across Louisiana this fall, it’s that they may be quickly fading into the figurative wallpaper. Gauging the initial reaction to the posters’ presence, this paper’s reportStephanie ers found little enthusiasm for or Grace even interest in the new incursion of religion into public classrooms, from kindergarten all the way up to college. Notably, they also found some STAFF PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER notes of skepticism from students A copy of the Ten Commandments, similar to the one pictured, is and educators who worry that the government mandate might required in Louisiana public school classrooms under a Louisiana state have the predictable effect of sug- law. gesting that there is a particular government-approved religion, U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson, legal defense of the initiative, First Amendment to the U.S. Coninsist it will somehow make a big R-Benton, on one version of the stitution notwithstanding. difference in students’ lives. posters donated by the religious “It’s one of those if we’re going “Don’t kill or steal shouldn’t be conservative Louisiana Family Foto do one (religion), we’re going controversial,” Murrill admonto do all, type things. If we’re not rum, right alongside Moses. going to do all, then we shouldn’t They’re both lawgivers, get it? ished, adding that “Louisiana just have one,” one LSU student That may or may not work, as public schools should follow the sensibly said. the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal law” — which is pretty much the Supporters of the law, of course, stayed a lower court ruling finding government equivalent of saying say they’re doing no such thing, the law unconstitutional until the “because I said so.” Yeah, that’s not really anyway. Instead, they’re posters were put up, so more litisomething kids really respond to. attempting to sidestep constituBut back to her first point. gation is expected. No, those particular commandIn the meantime, supporters of tional concerns by arguing that the Ten Commandments informed the law led by Gov. Jeff Landry ments aren’t controversial, but and Attorney General Liz Murrill, Moses and Johnson aside, they the country’s legal history. That’s whose office OK’d the posters and are already laid out clearly in law. also the rationale for featuring a who has made much of her office’s If officials are genuinely worried photo of a modern-day politician,

about any confusion, it would make more sense to post the relevant sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes — which also outline potential penalties that’d surely scare anyone on the fence straight. In the meantime, there’s a lot on the posters that doesn’t involve legality. Here’s where things could get interesting. Lower grade teachers are probably crossing their ﬁngers that their young charges won’t ask them about that four-syllable vocabulary word, adultery. But the commandments could actually spark some productive classroom discussion. It was reassuring to read in news coverage about students who embrace their own beliefs but also understand that those beliefs should not be imposed on classmates who were raised or believe differently. Good on them. As the school year gets going, perhaps the new posters might inspire some larger conversations about what the Constitution says about separation of church and state and how it’s played out over the years. For civics students, a great topic of study would be how and why the law mandating these posters passed in the ﬁrst place. The text itself presents other opportunities for teaching moments. If adultery is forbidden, then does it follow that it should be disqualifying for, say, elected leaders? Same question for bearing false

witness. And what should students think of the profusion of images of the current president, who has pasted his own face on government buildings, passports and even a coming, legally dubious Trump coin? Do they consider that a violation of the commandment against graven images, which generations of American leaders until now have understood as drifting toward idolatry? Please discuss. Also, what about all that coveting, of thy neighbor’s wife, his man or maidservant, his cattle? Here’s a perfect opportunity to delve into some unpleasant history of how both female spouses and slaves were once considered property, not materially different from farm animals. If they’re still allowed to talk about such things in school today. These posters might just offer a chance for our state’s students to learn a few things about the past and the present, and to develop some critical thinking skills. That’s deﬁnitely not the intent behind the law putting the commandments into schools. But given that they’re there, at least for now, it would be the best outcome. Even — no, especially — if Louisiana’s students learn to think critically about the people who make laws like these in the ﬁrst place. Email Stephanie Grace at sgrace@theadvocate.com.

Did ESPN’s Smith deserve the Thumbs Down award? In broadcasting, there’s something called a Q score. To put it simply, it measures brand recognition across various demographics, likability versus polarization and trust. The Q score is one of the most widely used tools in the broadcasting, digital and streaming worlds. ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith’s Q score is one of the best. There are reports about Q scores, but not usually from those who have the Will keys to the data. Sutton The scores are conﬁdential. But they matter. In most high-level compensation negotiations, employers make nice comments about the employee talent, but they aren’t effusive. While negotiating with Smith last year, ESPN Content President Burke Magnus called him a “bona ﬁde superstar.” “‘First Take,’ which is his primary assignment, is a juggernaut,” he added on a podcast, “from a relevance, reach and Q score if you will…” Smith is one of the nation’s most prominent journalists. The Na-

Stephen A. Smith

PROVIDED PHOTO

tional Association of Black Journalists gave him a Thumbs Down award at the group’s Atlanta convention. There was an uproar. NABJ President Errin Haines explained why Smith deserved it. Smith explained why he didn’t. NABJ summarized why Smith got the slap, saying it was based on a “recurring public pattern of disparaging public commentary directed at prominent Black women across politics, sports and media.” What does that mean? n Smith criticized Texas U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett for her style, saying she uses “verbiage and rhetoric for the streets.” n Smith criticized former ﬁrst lady Michelle Obama while campaigning for former Vice President Kamala Harris because she said voting for Donald Trump

was “a vote against us,” meaning women. He called the comments divisive and unfair. n Smith commented on a Super Bowl cameo appearance by tennis star Serena Williams as Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” played, questioning why a married woman would do that with a song that disses her ex, Drake. “If I’m married and my wife is going to join trolling her ex, go back to his a**, ’cause clearly you don’t belong with me,” he said. I’ve talked with a number of NABJ members, including those who live in Alabama, California, Florida, New York, Washington, D.C., and Louisiana. There are clear, deep divides about whether it was wrong to give Smith the award. There are those who love him, those who hate him. One called the award offensive. Another called it “an unforced error.” Yet another gleefully said it was well deserved. “I have no problem with NABJ publicly criticizing one of our own,” said Beverly White, a reporter friend who retired from NBC Los Angelese after more than 40 years. She said Smith “has been vicious in his criticisms” and the award was “more than

appropriate.” Another friend, Lance Washington, told me Smith “earned” the award. Smith let NABJ have it with a response on his own podcast for more than 40 minutes. Smith also went on conservative Sean Hannity’s Fox News show to defend himself. That upset White, Washington and others. “Accountability is not supposed to be comfortable,” Haines told NABJ Vice President-Digital Roland Martin on his daily newscast, “Roland Martin Unﬁltered.” During her comments at the convention, Haines said she’d welcome a conversation with Smith. Smith said NABJ should’ve called before last week. Jemele Hill, one of the most recognized sports journalists, said Smith is not above criticism. She recognizes his incredible success, yet has concerns about some things Smith has said. But she didn’t support the award decision or reject it. “It’s complicated,” she said. It is complicated. Hundreds of Black journalists have been weighing in on the NABJ-Smith drama, whether they are members or not. Many of them don’t know the history. The

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

award was created and ﬁrst presented in 1989. I doubt most NABJ members, or anyone else, can name more than one, maybe two, of the other Thumbs Down awardees without a web search. No matter who they were, I think there were too many, weakening the impact. Some think creating the Thumbs Down award was a bad move. Some think it’s run its course and it’s time to eliminate it. I think it was a great idea and it should continue. I have two concerns: First, it’s better for NABJ to focus on one awardee, and no more than two. Second, my beloved organization should hold itself to the highest level of accuracy and integrity, being as speciﬁc as possible, documenting actions and fact-checking everything. More than a week has passed and we’re still talking about this. I hope the key stakeholders can agree to have a civil conversation. I hope Smith understands why many cheered. I know Smith and NABJ will learn from this, survive and thrive. Email Will Sutton at wsutton@ theadvocate.com.

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

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8B ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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with meteorologist Damon Singleton

TODAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

Hot; an afternoon t-storm

A t-storm around in the p.m.

Humid with a t-storm or two

Some rain and a thunderstorm

Humid with a thunderstorm

Some rain and a thunderstorm

HIGH

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99° 79°

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

Beaumont 99/76 Port Arthur 99/78

Hattiesburg 98/74

Alexandria 100/76

Lafayette 99/78

Baton Rouge 99/76

Lake Charles 99/78

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Houma 98/78

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YESTERDAY

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AUG 27

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

Atlanta Austin Boston Charlotte Chicago Dallas Denver Houston Las Vegas

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

HIGH

5:08p 10:43a 5:07a 6:55a 6:55a 6:07a 8:03a

Sunrise today Sunset tonight Moonrise today Moonset today

90s 100s 110s

PRECIPITATION

95°/74° 91°/77° 91°/78° 102° in 1980 66° in 1956

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

New Orleans 99/79

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

HIGH

91° 78°

New Orleans through 5 p.m. Saturday

Jackson 99/75 Many 100/74

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91° 77°

TEMPERATURE

Longview 106/80

-0s

LOW

Monroe 102/77

Shreveport 104/80

-10s

HIGH

95° 78°

Another heat advisory has been issued for all of Southeast Louisiana because while temperatures will rise into the mid- to the upper 90s, heat index values could rise to 112 or higher. Also, we will remain under a major or extreme heat risk today as well. If you are working or playing outdoors, be sure to take frequent breaks, stay hydrated, find the shade and apply your sunscreen. Expect a few isolated storms this afternoon. Nothing in the tropics is a threat to the U.S.

6:33 a.m. 7:34 p.m. 4:55 p.m. 2:06 a.m.

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LOW

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City

Los Angeles 97 Miami 92 Nashville 89 New york City 81 Philadelphia 84 Phoenix 112 St. Louis 83 San Francisco 74 Seattle 74

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

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MODERATE

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

Today 8:17a Monday 9:03a Tuesday 9:47a Wednesday 10:30a Thursday 11:13a Friday 11:57a Saturday 12:21a

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

FLOOD STAGE

34 48 48 35 27 22 17

SAT. 24-HOUR STAGE CHANGE

12.20 22.70 24.10 8.90 4.80 3.32 3.20

+0.90 +1.61 +1.53 +0.46 +0.51 +0.03 +0.17

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8.80 5.43 4.04 3.91 2.80 1.47

+0.56 +0.23 +0.29 +0.09 none -0.05

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SPORTS OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

N O L A.C O M

S u n d ay, au g u S t 23, 2026

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TDs lacking as Tulane T ramps up for opener BY GUERRY SMITH

Tulane QB Kadin Semonza

Contributing writer

The red zone was a dead zone for the offense in Tulane’s second preseason scrimmage. Although quarterback Kadin Semonza was effective moving the ball between the 20s, neither he nor Zeon Chriss-Gremillion produced a touchdown in ﬁve possessions combined during their final push for the starting job. The younger players took over from there Saturday morning at Yulman Stadium with similar results. The offense failed to cross the goal line until walk-on Seth Gale scored from 20 yards out after taking a handoff from Dagan Bruno on the 88th and final snap, ending the 12th series.

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

If LSU’s season is memorable, Weis will play big part The story on new LSU offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. — other than being the son of a famous coach like his boss Lane Kiffin — is that he has a photographic memory. While interviewing Weis over dinner back in 2015 when Kiffin was offensive coordinator at Alabama, Kiffin decided to put the want-to-be young coach to the test. “I’m like, ‘All right, I don’t buy into this photographic memory stuff,’ ” Kiffin told CBSSports.com in 2018. “I get my credit card and liScott cense and give them to him Rabalais for five minutes. “I start asking questions about what was on there. He knew everything. The next day, he still knew it.” Weis smiled and batted away the notion that he possesses some sort of sixth sense. “I don’t think I have a photographic memory,” he said Friday, meeting with media covering LSU for the first time. He does, however, remember the downtown Tuscaloosa restaurant where they met 11 years ago — a place called Chuck’s Fish that’s still there. And he impressed Kiffin enough to land his first big job as an offensive analyst on Nick Saban’s staff. “The job was on the line,” Weis said, “so I had to come through.” There was no question that Weis had the offensive coordinator job at LSU if he wanted it when Kiffin came here from Ole Miss. Now Weis has to come through for the Tigers this season as their offensive play-caller. Kiffin is credited with crafting an offense that was highly successful at Alabama and was the most productive offense in the FBS during his six seasons at Ole Miss. But Weis is a major part of that success. In fact, for all the focus on Kiffin and his retention of LSU defensive coordinator Blake Baker from Brian Kelly’s staff, Weis

ä See RABALAIS, page 6C

Overall, 16 plays from inside the defense’s 20 netted 27 yards with one first down. “The positive was the offense moving the ball,” coach Will Hall said. “The negative was they had to kick field goals. On the flip side, the defense was great in the red zone. Playing great red-zone defense is probably one of the most undervalued stats in the country by the untrained football person.” Hall will release a full depth chart on Monday, presumably listing a No. 1 quarterback for the Sept. 5 opener at Duke. Semonza, who played the opening series, completed all five of his passes on a crisp drive that included a coaches’ overrule of a referee-whistled sack (the quarterbacks wore red jerseys and were off limits from being hit) just before he hit younger brother Cash Semonza for a 15-yard gain to the 17.

After Semonza was credited with 5 yards on a keeper, defensive end Reshad Sterling tackled running back Maurice Turner for no gain and Turner lost a yard on a catch in the flat, forcing the offense to settle for a 31yard field goal by Jackson Courville. After Chriss-Gremillion went in for two series, Semonza returned and completed two in a row as the offense moved from its 31 to a second and 3 at the defense’s 13. He then threw incomplete on a fade to well-covered receiver Garrett Mmahat at the goal line and had a pass broken up by cornerback Macho Stevenson, leading to a short field goal by Cooper Helmke. “He (Semonza) was on top of it today,” Hall said. “He probably had his best scrimmage

ä See TULANE, page 5C

NFL PRESEASON RAMS 34, SAINTS 0

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By RyAN SUN

Saints quarterback Zach Wilson, center, is tackled by Los Angeles Rams defensive back Alex Johnson, right, and linebacker Darryl Peterson during the first half of a preseason game Saturday in Inglewood, Calif. The Saints lost 34-0.

Pocket pratfalls

Saints QBs struggle in franchise’s first preseason shutout since 2000 BY MATTHEW PARAS Staff writer

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Kellen Moore entered Saturday’s preseason game with a simple plan to evaluate the New Orleans Saints’ backup quarterback battle. Zach Wilson would start the ﬁrst half. Spencer Rattler would get the second. The order was a change in the status quo. The coach turned to Wilson to see whether the 2021 second overall pick could carry over the momentum from his impressive Saints debut a week ago. Perhaps Moore wanted to put some pressure on Rattler to see how the 26-year-old would respond to the threat of his backup job suddenly being in danger.

Neither passed the test. Wilson and Rattler each underwhelmed in an ugly 34-0 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. Issues across the board contributed to the one-sided drubbing, the franchise’s ﬁrst shutout loss in the preseason since 2000. New Orleans was undisciplined, sluggish and sloppy, leaving Moore as animated as the second-year coach has been on the sideline of his Saints’ tenure. The quarterbacks did little to ease those emotions. “Your gut reaction is we want to accomplish more as an offense,” Moore said. “Those guys got some really good work throughout this entire week. Obviously as a team collectively, we didn’t take advantage of the opportunity.” Here’s a closer look at the two quarterbacks’

ä See SAINTS, page 4C

Saints look lost in LA after long week

STAFF PHOTO By MICHAEL JOHNSON

LSU offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. watches passing drills during preseason practice on Monday at the team’s practice facility.

The best thing about the New Orleans Saints’ trip to California is that it’s over. Yeah, coach Kellen Moore may like the work his team got in during joint practices in much cooler temperatures this week on the West Coast. But his Saints also took their share of L’s, including Saturday’s 34-0 preseason debacle against the Los Angeles Rams. “It was ugly,” said quarterback Zach Wilson, who got the start. Ugly was an understatement. Truth be told, there was plenty more ugliness in a costly week ﬁlled with losses.

Rod Walker Among the other losses? Saints owner Gayle Benson lost a half-million dollars, the amount of the check she has to write to the NFL after her team’s brawls with the Dallas Cowboys in Tuesday’s joint practice. The Saints also lost a few more key players to injuries, which has been

an ongoing theme of training camp. Moore is probably scratching his head, and not just because of the way the game Saturday played out. Does he want the regular season to hurry up and get here before more injuries pop up? Or does he want time to slow down so some of the walking wounded can heal and ﬁx some of the sloppiness that was on full display Saturday? The season opener is still three weeks away. The Saints have to survive one more preseason game Friday

ä See WALKER, page 4C

2C ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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2 p.m.

PBR: Team Series CW SAILING 7 a.m. Sail GP: Event 9 CBSSN MEN’S SOCCER 8 a.m. Aston Villa at Brighton NBCSN 8 a.m. Bournemouth at Man. City USA 9:55 a.m. Villarreal at Madrid ESPN2 10:30 a.m.Liverpool at Newcastle United USA 2:25 p.m. Barcelona at Elche ABC WOMEN’S SOCCER 1 p.m. Louisville at Chicago CBSSN 3 p.m. Orlando at Washington ESPN2 5 p.m. Houston at Bay CBSSN 7 p.m. NJ/Ny Gotham at Angel City ION SOFTBALL 7 p.m. Team Klinger vs.Team Palacios MLBN TENNIS 1 p.m. Cincinnati-ATP/WTA Tennis WNBA 3 p.m. Seattle at Dallas NBATV 6 p.m. Indiana at Chicago NBC

If Pels want respect, they must go earn it Respect is earned, not given. If the New Orleans Pelicans want the league ofﬁce and players around the league to respect them, they need to make them do so. There’s no need to complain about the NBA schedule that came out last week. And there’s no reason to be upset about what Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton said last week, which we’ll get to in a minute. The only way for a franchise that has won two playRod Walker off series in team history to change the narrative is to start winning. It’s as simple as that. The Pelicans’ schedule, which was announced last week, has just two games set to be broadcast nationally. Both of those games are during a January trip to Europe (France and England) against Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs. If the Pels weren’t playing in Europe and against Wemby, who knows if they would have even received two national games. There are four other teams that only have two national games. The Sacramento Kings, Milwaukee Bucks, Memphis Grizzlies and Brooklyn Nets. What do all those teams have in common? None of them made it to the postseason last season and none of them are expected to this season. Good teams get TV time. Bad teams don’t. Just ask the NFL’s Tennessee Titans, who weren’t awarded a prime-time game last season or this season despite drafting quarterback Cam Ward with the No. 1 overall pick in 2025. The Pelicans’ number of national games has dwindled over the years, going from 30 in 2019 when Zion Williamson was drafted to 18 games four years ago. Three years ago, they had 12. And 13 the season before that. Last season and this season, that number has been reduced to two. People who watch the Pelicans regularly know that talented

STAFF FILE PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER

New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy, left, and guard Jeremiah Fears, right, play defense as Cleveland Cavaliers guard Donovan Mitchell passes the ball during a game March 21 at the Smoothie King Center. players like Williamson, Trey Murphy and Dejounte Murray along with promising rookies like Jeremiah Fears and Derik Queen are good enough to be seen nationally. It’s up to them to convince the rest of the basketball audience. The Pelicans also have 16 backto-back games on the schedule, tied with four other teams (Nets, Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers and Dallas Mavericks) for most in the league. All NBA teams have at least 13 back-tobacks. So the Pelicans, one of the worst teams in the league the past two seasons, having just three more than that isn’t a big deal. The Pelicans also have the most stretches of three games in four nights in the league (27). One of the league’s most storied franchises, the Los Angeles Lakers, is second with 26. No, the NBA — despite Pelicans top executive Joe Dumars having worked in the league ofﬁce for three years — didn’t do the Pels any favors with the

schedule. And I imagine Dumars doesn’t want any favors. The Pelicans will have to get out of the mud by clawing and scratching their way out of their doldrums and into the spotlight. Now to Haliburton, the Pacers’ star player who missed all of last season while recovering from a torn Achilles suffered in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals. Haliburton will make his return this season. He expressed disappointment last week when he found out that his ﬁrst game back was not going to be at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Indiana’s home arena. The NBA could have, and probably should have, given a player of Haliburton’s caliber (two All-Stars, two All-NBA selections and leading his team to the NBA Finals) his ﬁrst game back in front of his home fans. Instead, the Pacers open on the road in the Smoothie King Center against the Pelicans. Haliburton felt disrespected by them, then proceeded to disrespect the Pelicans in the process while speak-

ing on a podcast last week. “Think of a player you could compare to my level of basketball, someone who’s torn their Achilles tendon and been out for 16 months,” Haliburton said. “That wouldn’t be nationally televised, right? Do you think the game would be at home if it wasn’t being broadcast? Do you think that game should be in New Orleans? I looked at the schedule and thought ‘Wow.’ Nothing personal, my guy Trey Murphy is there. I love NOLA, but I was kind of shocked… but we’ll move on.” Pelicans, don’t move on. For the next two months, let it marinate that the NBA doesn’t ﬁnd you worthy to be on TV. Let Haliburton’s diss be fuel leading up to the Oct. 21 season opener. There’s no need to respond to Haliburton’s comments (or anyone else’s) before then. Let your play on the court do your talking. It’s the only way to get respect. Email Rod Walker at rwalker@ theadvocate.com.

Raffle offers sports fans chance to hit jackpot Annual Premier Season Ticket Raffle drawing is Aug. 30 BY ROD WALKER

Staff writer

Kristi McKinney doesn’t consider herself an avid sports fan. But that didn’t stop her from entering last year’s Premier Season Ticket Rafﬂe held by the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation. “I had heard about it in years past, and it sounded like a fun thing to do,” McKinney said. “People were making fun of me because I’m not a huge sports fan. But I wanted to help the Sports Foundation. It was more of a charitable thing for me.” Turns out, McKinney’s name was pulled in the rafﬂe and she won the smorgasbord of season tickets. “First of all, I was in shock,” McKinney said. “I was excited. Like any prize, you don’t think you’re going to be the winner.” Now it’s time for someone else to win two season tickets to some of the top sporting events in south Louisiana. This year’s drawing will be held on Aug. 30. The winner will be announced on “The Final Play,” the Sunday night local

STAFF FILE PHOTO By DAVID GRUNFELD

New Orleans Saints fans smile and cheer in the second half of a game against the Arizona Cardinals on Sept. 7 at the Caesars Superdome. sports show on Fox 8. The winner receives a pair of season tickets to all of the following: New Orleans Saints regular-season games; New Orleans Pelicans regular-season games; LSU football, men’s and women’s basketball, gymnastics and baseball; Tulane football, men’s and women’s basketball, and baseball; LSU-New Orleans baseball and men’s and women’s basketball. The winner also receives two tickets to the New Orleans Bowl, the Allstate Sugar Bowl and the

PGA Tour’s Zurich Classic, as well as WWE’s Money in the Bank event. Raffle tickets are $100 each. Only 2,000 tickets will be sold. The money raised helps the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation’s efforts to bring major sporting events to New Orleans. Some of the recent events hosted in New Orleans were Super Bowl LIX in 2025 and the X Games in July. The Sports Foundation also assisted Legends Global in getting the Savannah Bananas base-

ball team to Caesars Superdome in March. “The raffle is a significant fundraiser for the Sports Foundation,” said Jay Cicero, president and CEO of the Sports Foundation. “It helps us with our business and supports our business of bidding upon and managing sporting events for the economic benefit of Louisiana. It’s much-needed operational fund support for everything that we do.” There is one change to this year’s raffle. In years past, the winner had to pay taxes on the tickets. That’s no longer the case. “The Sports Foundation will now pay the taxes on it,” Cicero said. “So the only expense to the winner is the money for the raffle ticket itself.” McKinney took her son to Tulane’s season opener last season. She also attended Saints and Pelicans games. “But gymnastics and LSU baseball were the highlights,” McKinney said. “And I really enjoyed the golf tournament.” McKinney’s advice to anyone considering entering this year’s raffle? “If you’re an avid sports fan, I would recommend it,” she said. To enter the raffle, visit gnosports.com/win.

Ohtani takes step toward return to Dodgers’ mound

LOS ANGELES — Shohei Ohtani faced teammate Will Smith in live batting practice on Saturday, but there’s no deﬁnitive timeline for the two-way superstar to return to pitching for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Wearing long sleeves, Ohtani threw 30 pitches under a blazing sun in 93-degree heat and ended the session by giving a thumbs-up. Among those looking on were pitching coach Mark Prior and president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman, fellow MVPs Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, and some of the Pittsburgh Pirates. Ohtani hasn’t pitched in a game since July 3 because of lingering soreness in his left knee, which is his landing leg while pitching.

Brewers RHP Woodruff says surgery not needed

MILWAUKEE — Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Brandon Woodruff says his latest shoulder injury won’t require surgery, a notable change of plans for a two-time All-Star who has dealt with multiple arm issues. This development creates at least a slight chance Woodruff could pitch again this season, though the prospect remains unlikely. Woodruff, 33, said he will play catch on Wednesday to begin a throwing progression. That represents a major departure from his initial expectations. He had indicated in mid-July that he would be undergoing anterior capsule surgery on his right shoulder. He had a similar procedure in October 2023 and didn’t pitch again until July 2025. The right-hander is 2-2 with a 2.98 ERA in nine starts this year.

Yankees DH Stanton strains calf running bases

NEW YORK — Giancarlo Stanton suffered another setback in his recovery from a strained right calf when he strained his left calf while running the bases earlier this week, putting his return to the New York Yankees by the end of the season in doubt. Stanton has not played since tweaking his right calf running between second and third base during New York’s 12-4 win at Houston on April 24. Stanton was nearing a return in mid-June when he felt soreness in his right calf while running the bases. The ﬁve-time All-Star and 2017 NL MVP has been plagued by injuries since being acquired from the Marlins in December 2017 and has not played a full season since 2018.

Serena, Alcaraz paired for doubles at U.S. Open

NEW YORK — Serena Williams will team up with Carlos Alcaraz to create a powerhouse mixed doubles pair in her return to the U.S. Open. The U.S. Tennis Association announced Saturday that Williams and Alcaraz had been given a wild card into the tournament. The mixed doubles main draw begins Tuesday, with the winning team sharing $1 million. It will be Williams’ first time playing at the U.S. Open since 2022. The 23-time Grand Slam singles champion returned to tennis this summer. Williams is not planning to play singles in New York.

Clark pulls away for 5-shot lead at Bellerive

ST. LOUIS — Wyndham Clark lost the lead with a double bogey on the first hole and then left everyone in his wake Saturday at Bellerive, making five birdies and an eagle in an eight-hole stretch and finishing with a 5-under 65 to build a five-shot lead in the BMW Championship. It was the second time this year Clark has led by at least five shots going into the final round. He had a six-shot advantage at the U.S. Open and held on to win by one for his second major. Rory McIlroy ran off three straight birdies late in the round and saved par from a bunker on the 18th for a 65. Patrick Cantlay birdied the 18th for a 66. They were tied for second, a position far more relevant to Cantlay. He is at No. 43 in the FedEx Cup and needs a high finish to be among the top 30 who advance to the FedEx Cup finale next week in Atlanta.

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ 3C

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THE VARSITY ZONE FOOTBALL PRE VIEW n DISTRICT 10-4A LOOKING BACK Shaw safety Rontrae Carter prepares to run a drill during practice in the school’s gymnasium on Aug. 19, 2025, in Marrero. A TCU commitment, Carter has started 50 games in his career with still a season to go.

Belle Chasse Last year: 11-2, 2-1 in 9-4A (playoff semifinals) Shaw Last year: 9-5, 1-2 in 9-4A (state runner-up) Kenner Discovery Last year: 4-7, 0-3 in 9-4A (first round) Young Audiences Last year: 8-0 (no district nor postseason) Willow Last year: 8-2 (no district nor postseason)

FIVE PLAYERS TO WATCH

STAFF FILE PHOTO

‘His experience is amazing’ Shaw senior Carter set to become Tierney’s most experienced player BY SPENCER URQUHART Staff writer

Shaw coach Hank Tierney has coached plenty of talented players such as former NFL safety Ryan Clark but has yet to have someone enter his senior year with as much experience as Rontrae Carter. A senior safety, Carter has been a full-time starter since Week 4 of his eighth grade year and has started 50 games in the secondary dating to 2022. A two-time LSWA all-state selection who’s helped lead Shaw to back-to-back Division II select state title game appearances, Carter is set to become the Eagles’ first five-year starter when he takes the field this fall. “(Carter’s) experience is amazing,” Tierney said. “Not only did he play as an eighth grader, he played well. We won 40 games in four years, and he’s started in just about every single one of them.” Carter is Shaw’s starting strong safety but has played just

about everywhere in the secondary. He recorded 97 tackles last season along with two safeties, two forced fumbles and two interceptions while returning a punt 64 yards for a touchdown. More than 20 Division I schools offered scholarships to Carter, who stands 6-foot-1 and weighs 190 pounds. He committed to TCU in June, choosing the Horned Frogs after visiting their campus in May. “It all started with my (freshman) year when TCU offered me,” Carter said. “(TCU’s coaches) called and told me, ‘Rontrae, we’re going to be consistent with you every day,’ and they did exactly what they said. When I got to the (ofﬁcial visit), I enjoyed it.” Shaw’s defense has been dominant the past two seasons with Carter leading the way. The Eagles allowed less than 20 points per game on average in that two-year span and gave up a total of 40 points in four postseason contests last year. Shaw returns multiple defen-

sive starters, including free safety DeJuan Rivera, who committed to Navy this summer. Rivera is one of Carter’s closest friends. “I just try my best being a leader,” Carter said. “Trying to make sure I uplift all my teammates, making sure guys are happy around me. (Rivera) is a really outstanding player. I really enjoy being around him as a player and as a person off the ﬁeld.” Shaw’s defensive line has three starters back in senior defensive ends Jaiden Weber and Ronnie Miller and senior defensive tackle Dakari Keys. Senior linebackers Ethan Lentz and Tahj Turner also return. Lentz recorded more than 100 tackles last season. “We feel real good about our entire defense,” Tierney said. “Ethan started as a sophomore, and Tahj played as a sophomore. We’re real high on those guys.” Senior guard Craig Bourgeois returns to anchor Shaw’s offensive line as a three-year starter.

Senior quarterback Allen Shaw III will be in his second season starting under center. A converted cornerback, Shaw has a pair of wide receivers in 6-5 junior Nasir Parker and 6-4 sophomore Baylon Jackson. “We have really good receivers,” Tierney said. “Probably as good of receivers as any team I’ve ever coached.” At running back, senior Calvin Ellsworth will split carries with junior Allen Shaw V, the younger brother of Shaw’s quarterback. In total, Shaw returns 17 starters as its looks to reach a third straight state title game. “Nothing beats the experience of playing,” Tierney said. “We’ve played in the (Caesars Superdome) two straight years, so (our players) have been in pressure games. We’ve played a very tough schedule for two years, and those guys have been in every one of those games.” Email Spencer Urquhart at surquhart@theadvocate.com.

FIVE THINGS TO KNOW 1. Shaw has reached the Division II select state championship game in backto-back years under coach Hank Tierney. Rontrae Carter, Allen Shaw, senior guard Craig Bourgeois and senior linebacker Ethan Lentz return for the Eagles.

2. Belle Chasse is replacing its starting quarterback and lead running back from last year but has experienced players returning. Senior offensive linemen Holden Orgeron and Haiden Meyers are four-year starters who were all-district selections as juniors.

3. young Audiences will compete for district and postseason honors for the first time with new coach Elliott Porter, a former LSU center. Markus Soule returns as the starting quarterback and senior linebacker Robert Wallis leads the defense.

4. Willow is again competing for district and postseason honors this season. New starting quarterback Max Beabout has playmakers as the Lions return last season’s top skill players in seniors Ahmad Vappie, Darryl Franklin and Marcus Joseph.

5. Bryan Crayton enters his second season as Kenner Discovery’s coach.The team returns three all-district players in running back Franklyn Hernandez, offensive lineman Dekarbry Warren and defensive end Michael Enriquez-Morrison. Spencer Urquhart

Rontrae Carter DB | Shaw, Sr. Carter is a five-year starter who’s been an LSWA All-State selection and an All-Metro pick in each of the past two years. A TCU commitment, the 6-foot1, 190-pound safety had 97 tackles (63 solo), 12 tackles for loss and two interceptions as a junior. Cruz LeBlanc LB | Belle Chasse, Jr. LeBlanc was a first-team alldistrict linebacker last season for a Belle Chasse defense that made the Division II nonselect semifinals.The 6-foot, 190-pound LeBlanc is in the mix to see snaps at quarterback this year. Caleb Jackson RB | Young Audiences, Sr. Jackson ran for more than 1,000 yards as a sophomore and followed that up with another season of over 1,000 yards from scrimmage, taking a step forward as a receiver.The 5-9, 190-pound all-purpose back has offers from Tulane and UL. Ahmad Vappie WR | Willow, Sr. A multiyear starter,Vappie is Willow’s all-time leader in receptions, yards receiving and touchdowns receiving.The 6-3, 170-pound go-to target has totaled 149 receptions for 2,287 yards and 21 touchdowns in three seasons for the Lions. Allen Shaw III QB | Shaw, Sr. Nicknamed “Red,” Shaw started at defensive back as a sophomore before becoming the Eagles’ starting quarterback. He accounted for 17 touchdowns last season and has improved as a passer this offseason while rehabbing an ankle injury. Spencer Urquhart

Brother Martin’s two QBs have each other’s backs BY CHRISTOPHER DABE Staff writer

Brother Martin quarterback Hudson Fields pulled Justin Morgan aside three years ago and told him something that Morgan hasn’t forgotten. “When a coach is hard on you,” Morgan remembers Fields telling him, “keep pushing because that means he sees something in you.” The two Brother Martin quarterbacks have been friends since their time together at Christian Brothers School, and they’ll share varsity playing time for the second year in a row when the season opens on Sept. 4 at Southside in Lafayette. “We push each other to be better every practice,” Fields said. “When we rotate in practice, we always give each other a high ﬁve when we go in.” Fields is a senior who started every game last year, when he threw for 2,140 yards and 17 touchdowns. He helped the Crusaders to a 7-5 record and the second round of the playoffs. Morgan, a junior, earned his ﬁrst varsity snaps as a change-of-pace option. He threw six touchdown passes and rushed 18 times for 91 yards and one score. Even in a limited role, Morgan

STAFF FILE PHOTOS By SOPHIA GERMER AND JOHN McCUSKER

LEFT: Brother Martin quarterback Hudson Fields drops to pass against St. Augustine on Oct. 25 at Tad Gormley Stadium. RIGHT: Brother Martin quarterback Justin Morgan finds an opening in the John Curtis defense on Oct. 17 at Tad Gormley. made important contributions. Against Jesuit in Week 4, Morgan hit five-star wide receiver and Texas commitment Easton Royal in stride for a 38-yard touchdown pass in the second half of a 31-29 victory. Fields also had a strong game that night, completing 21 of 30 passes for 323 yards and a touchdown pass to Royal. Brother Martin coach Mark Bonis has long tried to rotate a second

quarterback into varsity games. Fields experienced that as a freshman when he subbed in for thenjunior Seth Dazet. “Just getting those couple drives a game really gets you ready for that environment,” Fields said. Morgan went through something similar last year when he entered his ﬁrst varsity game in Week 1 against East Ascension. Morgan made a bad read on an option play and kept the ball for a loss.

Morgan missed spring practices while playing on the Crusaders baseball team that reached the state finals, forcing him to make up for lost time over the summer. “He had to come back into the program and truly work his tail off from the beginning of June to now, to put himself back in the position that he is,” Bonis said. “He has improved tremendously in grasping the whole entire offense.” Both quarterbacks have older brothers who achieved athletic success. Fields’ brother, Chandler, played quarterback for Rummel and at UL. Morgan’s brother, Tre, a Brother Martin graduate, starred on the LSU national championship baseball team in 2023. He is now with the Tampa Bay Rays Triple-A affiliate. Both value the wisdom their brothers have passed on to them, with Chandler telling Hudson what to watch for on certain plays and Tre teaching Justin about staying levelheaded. That bond is especially evident during games, when one steps onto the field while the other stays on the sideline. “When I’m on the sideline,” Fields said, “I feel like I’m still in the game.”

The following week at St. Paul’s, Morgan threw his ﬁrst touchdown pass, connecting with Royal on a wheel route from about 10 yards out. “That’s when I really started to bloom as a player,” Morgan said. Brother Martin now has two quarterbacks capable of starting. Fields is expected to start Week 1. “Watching him from last year to this year, how much faster he’s progressing through his reads has Contact Christopher Dabe at been outstanding,” Bonis said. cdabe@theadvocate.com

4C ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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SAINTS THREE AND OUT: JEFF DUNCAN’S TOP THREE TAKEAWAyS FROM SAINTS’ UGLy PRESEASON LOSS TO RAMS

UGLY, EVEN BY PRESEASON STANDARDS Preseason games are traditionally marred by sloppy play, but this one was particularly ugly. The Saints committed three turnovers, including two in the red zone, and 12 penalties for 96 yards. The Saints were twice called for having 12 defensive players on the field. The Rams’ 20-0 halftime lead reflected their domination. They outgained the Saints 272-98 in yards and 19-4 in first downs. The Saints had more penalties (six for 57 yards in the first half than first downs (four). Saints coach Kellen Moore likes to maintain an even-keel demeanor on the sidelines, but even he couldn’t hide his frustration.

THE QUARTERBACKS STRUGGLED Zach Wilson failed to capitalize on his starting assignment and follow up on his strong performance in Week 1. In four first-half drives, he managed to produce only four first downs and failed to march the Saints past the Rams’ 40-yard line. He completed 6 of 12 passes passes for 55 yards and an anemic 28.1 passer rating. Wilson’s interception came as the result of a miscommunication with Bub Means on an option route. Spencer Rattler didn’t do much better. In addition to a pick-six, he failed to march the Saints to a score in five second-half series. He completed 14 of 23 passes for 141 yards.

RAMS TARGETED EMERSON The Rams went after Martin Emerson early and often. The veteran cornerback’s coverage was not terrible, but he surrendered the bulk of the yardage on the Rams’ second possession, a 14-play, 63-yard drive that ended in a field goal. In all, Emerson was targeted six times on the first two Rams’ possessions, surrendering three catches for 24 yards. He was also called for a defensive holding penalty. With Quincy Riley sidelined by a groin injury, Emerson is being counted on to provide depth at cornerback. The veteran has flashed in coverage throughout camp but was picked on by the Rams.

GAINING GROUND

RB Miller ‘felt good’ in first game action in 300-plus days BY LUKE JOHNSON Staff writer

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — It had been more than 300 days since Kendre Miller suited up for the New Orleans Saints for a game. Preseason or not, it was meaningful for Miller to be back on the field in his No. 5 uniform Saturday against the Los Angeles Rams in his first game action since he tore his ACL against the Chicago Bears in Week 7 of last season. “I felt good just to get out there in a game,” Miller said. “I didn’t even know it had been that long.” Injuries have driven the narrative of Miller’s career to this point. Now entering his fourth NFL season, he has never appeared in more than eight games in a given year. Even in this year’s training camp, he’s been set back by a back injury that cost him more than a week of practice time. But Miller returned to the field for the pair of joint practices the Saints participated in against the Cowboys and Rams this week, and Saturday he finally got a chance to show what he could do in a live setting after recovering from his major knee injury. “I definitely needed the work, just because I’ve been out with the knee — I missed OTAs and I to needed catch up,” Miller said. “So the work was really good for me, getting a feel of everything. But I feel good out there, it doesn’t feel

WALKER

Continued from page 1C against those same Cowboys they couldn’t get along with last week. Then the real games begin, and the Saints will start their quest to try to get back to SoFi Stadium — site of Super Bowl LXI — on the second Sunday in February. The team in white jerseys Saturday, also playing their backups, is one of the favorites to get to the Super Bowl on their home field. Meanwhile, the team in black and gold is just trying to claw its way back into the playoff picture after missing out the last five seasons. Saturday didn’t really tell us much of anything about the 2026 Saints. Most of the guys who suited up won’t make much of an impact. For the second straight preseason game, Moore decided not to play any starters. Instead, he’s letting the work the starters get in joint practices suffice. That’s been the approach many NFL teams have adopted since the league reduced the number of preseason games from four to three in 2021. Tyler Shough looked sharp in the three joint practices against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Cowboys and Rams. I’d imagine Moore will let him and the other starters get a series or two in the preseason finale. But for now, the only thing we’ve seen from Shough during the preseason are his fiery pre-game speeches. “This week, we have elevated the standard of our team,” Shough said prior to Saturday’s kickoff. “We have laid the foundation of who we want to be. We have laid the foundation of where we’re going.” That foundation looked shaky in Saturday’s sloppy performance.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By RyAN SUN

Saints running back Kendre Miller, center, carries during the first half of a preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams on Saturday in Inglewood, Calif. like I missed a step, I just need to clean up a couple things.” While the results for the team as a whole were disappointing, Miller showed some of the promise that he’s displayed whenever he has been healthy since the Saints selected him in the third round of the 2023 draft. His ﬁrst two carries went for 5 and 6 yards, and he also had gains of 10 (on a reception) and 12 negated by penalties. Miller also got a look as a kick returner, and he took

Anything Moore may have liked in the joint practice Tuesday against the Cowboys and Thursday against the Rams didn’t translate to the game. There is a saying that it never rains in California. That obviously doesn’t include the puddle of penalty flags that fell all game long on the turf. The Saints were penalized 12 times for 96 yards. “It shows you the discipline and details (needed) for football,” Moore said. Saints players continued to fall, too. Running back Devin Neal and tight end Moliki Matavao left the game early with injuries, adding to a week that also sidelined Alvin Kamara (knee) and cornerback Quincy Riley (groin). The Saints lost defensive lineman Bryan Bresee (knee) for the season on the first day of camp and rookie receiver Jordyn Tyson (hamstring) is out for at least two months after getting injured in last week’s joint practice in Metairie against the Jags. Some of this sloppiness should have been expected. A team traveling 1,900 miles to have two joint practices and a game in a five-day span can take its toll. Moore didn’t make any excuses. “Regular season or preseason does not matter,” Moore said. “Those (games) aren’t the ones you want. That was a big-time missed opportunity for us.” The good news for the Saints is they don’t travel west of the Mississippi during the regular season. One of the most memorable scenes from this latest trip was a frustrated Erik McCoy tossing the helmet of a Cowboys’ player during one of Tuesday’s many brawls. If only McCoy could throw Saturday’s game away, too. Email Rod Walker at rwalker@theadvocate.com.

his lone return back for 29 yards. His overall numbers (six carries, 22 yards) were not especially reﬂective of how hard he ran. “There were some physical runs in there. I was proud of him hopping in there,” coach Kellen Moore said. “I think he did have some runs where he was taking advantage of opportunities. They were not all perfect runs; there were some dirty runs that he was able to get some positive yards.” But for Miller, it wasn’t about the

SAINTS

Continued from page 1C

statistics. He was just happy to be back on the ﬁeld. He injured his knee in October of last year. After the game, Miller was optimistic that he wasn’t dealing with anything too serious — and then he learned the severity. Miller has missed a lot of time as an NFL player, but never with something like this. His ﬁrst two seasons were beset by hamstring and ankle issues. When he learned he’d be shelved for the rest of the Email Luke Johnson at season — and most of the ensuing ljohnson@theadvocate.com.

L.A. Rams 34, New Orleans 0 New Orleans L.A. Rams

First Quarter

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LAR — FG Mevis 26, 3:55.

Second Quarter

performances and why the battle must continue for another week:

How Wilson performed This was Wilson’s best opportunity to steal a job that clearly had been Rattler’s for months. But the 27-year-old wasn’t nearly as sharp as he was in last week’s loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Against the Rams, Wilson completed 6 of 12 passes for 55 yards. And like Rattler last week, he committed a turnover that set up a touchdown for the other team. On his turnover, Wilson was picked off at LA’s 49-yard line by cornerback Al’zillion Hamilton. But the error seemed to be more about miscommunication with wide receiver Bub Means, one of Wilson’s favorite targets all summer. Wilson threw inside while Means cut outside, resulting in the easy takeaway. In these situations, Moore often says he wants to see how the quarterback bounces back. Wilson said he didn’t feel as if the turnover lingered, but he didn’t have a moment that overshadowed it. He settled, for instance, on a 7-yard scramble in which targets Moliki Matavao and Bryce Lance were briefly open down the field. On that same drive, Wilson couldn’t capitalize on a fourth and 2 as his intended pass was knocked out of Kevin Austin’s hands. The turnover on downs led to another Rams touchdown, putting New Orleans in a 17-0 hole. The deficit wasn’t just the fault of the quarterback. As a team, the Saints nearly had as many penalties (12) as first downs (13), and had more penalties (six) than first downs (four) in Wilson’s half. Rams backup quarterback Stetson Bennett feasted on rookie corners Lorenzo Styles and T.J. Hall. The Saints were outmuscled in the

offseason — he said he managed to keep a positive mindset despite his previous injury history. The way Miller looked at it, he was in the midst of one of his better seasons as a pro, he’d shown the coaching staff what he could do, and he felt like he’d given it everything he had. “When the injury happened, I didn’t feel any regret like I left anything on the ﬁeld, so I went into rehab with that (mindset),” Miller said. When training camp opened, he was one of three backs vying for either one or two spots on the active roster. But attrition has made that math a little more difﬁcult as camp has progressed. Alvin Kamara was present for Saturday’s preseason game, but he will likely miss the next several weeks with an MCL injury. Audric Estime had appeared to gain a secure grip on the No. 3 running back job before leaving the preseason opener with an ankle injury. Devin Neal, who like Miller had dealt with his own injury in camp, left Saturday’s game with a hamstring injury. Miller has heard rumblings from the outside about whether he will be on the 53-man roster by the end of training camp, but he said he lets it go in one ear and out the other. He is back on the field, doing everything he can to prove he belongs, and that is all he can do at this point. “If it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be,” Miller said. “I’ll just know that I left it all out there when I had the chance.”

LAR — Bennett 1 run (Mevis kick), 10:22. LAR — Bennett 8 run (Mevis kick), 2:53. LAR — FG Mevis 26, :00.

Third Quarter

LAR — Cook 100 interception return (Mevis kick), 9:06.

Fourth Quarter

LAR — Hunter 12 run (Mevis kick), 3:41.

A — 71,206.

First downs Total Net Yards Rushes-yards Passing Punt Returns Kickoff Returns Interceptions Ret. Comp-Att-Int Sacked-Yards Lost Punts Fumbles-Lost Penalties-Yards Time of Possession

NO 13 293 26-105 188 1-22 4-91 0-0 20-35-2 1-8 4-45.0 2-1 12-96 28:12

INDIVIDUAL STATISTICS

LAR 28 405 30-151 254 2-15 1-25 2-103 27-43-0 0-0 2-48.5 0-0 7-60 31:48

RUSHING — New Orleans, K.Miller 6-22, Rattler 5-21, Chandler 6-21, Z.Wilson 4-19, Donaldson 3-15, Neal 2-7. L.A. Rams, Hunter 12-68, Waters 10-54, Simpson 3-10, Bennett 2-9, Presley 1-5, Connors 2-5. PASSING — New Orleans, Rattler 14-23-1-141, Z.Wilson 6-12-1-55. L.A. Rams, Bennett 19-310-181, Simpson 8-12-0-73. RECEIVING — New Orleans, Donaldson 4-51, Matavao 3-34, Moreno-Cropper 2-34, Lance 2-16, Welch 2-11, Austin 1-10, Chandler 1-10, Bell 1-7, Hardy 1-7, Mitchell-Paden 1-6, Means 1-5, Rechsteiner 1-5. L.A. Rams, Daniels 8-68, Bachman 4-48, Presley 4-35, Klare 4-12, Edwards 3-27, Scott 2-36, Villari 1-24, Waters 1-4. MISSED FIELD GOALS — New Orleans, T.Brown 39.

trenches. But trailing all game created opportunities to throw the ball as much as possible, and Wilson didn’t take advantage. He squandered a classic two-minute drill with 2:31 left in the half, running just six plays before the Saints punted with 1:42 left. Wilson’s biggest missed chance on that series came on second and 3, when he fired at the feet of a wide-open Means in the middle of the ﬁeld. “I absolutely think it can be better,” Wilson said. “It’s something we’ll watch the ﬁlm and see.”

How Rattler performed At ﬁrst, Rattler looked as if he were about to change the narrative. The third-year quarterback

drove the Saints efficiently down the field, hitting Jalen Cropper for a 24-yard gain on one pass, drawing a 25-yard pass interference penalty on another. To open the second half, Rattler led the Saints inside the Rams’ 10-yard line, and they were just 6 yards away from scoring. Then Rattler threw a pick-six. Rattler’s interception was returned for 100 yards by Rams safety Alex Cook, marking yet another costly turnover for the former fifth-round pick. This always had been the rub with Rattler. He lost his starting job last year when he had six combined turnovers in back-to-back games. Against the Rams, Rattler’s pain wouldn’t end there. His next drive was eerily similar to his first — except it was running back Ty Chandler who produced the costly turnover when he fumbled at the 2-yard line, wiping out a 32-yard completion. The saving grace? The Rams fell on it and had nowhere to go. On the stat sheet, Rattler was more efficient than he was last week. His 6.1 yards per attempt was better than the 3.8 he mustered against Jacksonville. He spread the ball around to a variety of targets, good for 141 yards with a 60.9 completion percentage (14 of 23). “I played good today,” Rattler said. “I just wanted to go out there and be better than I was last week, for sure.” Still, Rattler’s five series resulted in zero points. On the final series, Tanner Brown missed a 39-yard field goal — a perfect cap on a day when everything went wrong. “Regular season, preseason, it does not matter — those ones aren’t the ones you want,” Moore said of the Saints’ performance. “That was a big-time missed opportunity for us. It starts with me. We didn’t respond the right way. “It’s really frustrating. At the end of the day, film is your resume in this league.”

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ 5C

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SAINTS NOTEBOOK

NFL PRESEASON ROUNDUP

Sanders throws TD pass as Watson hears boos in Browns’ loss The Associated Press

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOOT By RyAN SUN

New Orleans Saints wide receiver Bryce Lance makes a catch next to Los Angeles Rams defensive back Tanner Ingle during the first half of a preseason game on Saturday in Inglewood, Calif. Lance committed one of the Saints’ 12 penalties on Saturday.

Sloppy Saints litter ﬁeld with ﬂags BY LUKE JOHNSON Staff writer

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — If the preseason is a time to get the bugs out of the system, the New Orleans Saints might need to get an exterminator on the line for their return trip to the Gulf South. The Saints played an incredibly sloppy brand of football in a 34-0 loss to the Los Angeles Rams on Saturday in their second preseason contest, committing 12 penalties for 96 yards while turning the ball over three times — two of which occurred inside the Rams’ 10-yard line. “Just a lack of discipline, lack of detail,” Saints coach Kellen Moore said. “A lot of them are under our control. Twelve penalties in a football game, you’re not going to win. We talked a lot about that and it was obviously a step back from the progress that we feel like we’ve made.” It didn’t really matter who was on the field. The offensive “starters” for Saturday’s game — the Saints, for the second straight week, rested all of their regular firstteam players — committed three drive-killing penalties within their first 10 plays. Rookie guard Jeremiah Wright was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct after drilling a Rams player late, negating a 5-yard gain. Bryce Lance also wiped out a 5-yard gain with an offensive holding penalty, and while the Saints were able to overcome Lance’s hold by converting a first down, Kevin Austin then committed an offensive pass interference to wipe away a 10-yard

TULANE

Continued from page 1C since he’s been here of just distributing the ball, playing within himself and taking what the defense gives you.” Semonza agreed. “It felt good,” he said. “It might not have looked ﬂashy to people watching, but from an execution standpoint I was doing what I’m supposed to do and being efficient.” Chriss-Gremillion attempted zero passes on his first set of downs, which consisted of five consecutive runs by walk-ons. He overthrew receiver Anthony Brown-Stephens, who did not expect the ball, on the ﬁrst play of his second series, before safety Chase Green intercepted a deep throw for Gabe Daniels. That pass was on target, but Green made a better play on the ball than Daniels. “The pick was not his (ChrissGremillion’s) fault,” Hall said. “It

gain on a screen. The defense had some especially egregious penalties. Even if there is some room for debate on rookie Lorenzo Styles‘ defensive pass interference that allowed the Rams to convert a fourth and 3, New Orleans was also penalized twice for having 12 defensive players on the field. Finally, with the offense in desperation mode midway through the fourth quarter, the Saints had a fourth-and-1 conversion from their own 33-yard line negated by an illegal formation. “We weren’t aligned correctly,” Moore said. “The officials were right, 100%.” The final accounting for the Saints’ 12 penalties: two for offensive holding, two for defensive pass interference, two for 12 men on the field, and one each for false start, unnecessary roughness, illegal formation, offensive pass interference, defensive holding and ineligible receiver downfield.

Injuries pile up Two members of the 2025 draft class left Saturday’s game against the Rams early with injuries. Tight end Moliki Matavao was having an impressive ﬁrst half against the Rams, hauling in each of his three targets for 34 yards — including an impressive contested catch down the sideline that went for a gain of 14. But at the end of a 12-yard catch and run in the second quarter, Matavao took a hard shot to his lower leg. He tried to walk it off on the sideline but ultimately walked off the ﬁeld and into the locker room with a knee injury.

was the right read by him, a great ball in the air. Our wideout’s got to go up and make a play on that ball.” Chriss-Gremillion’s final drive produced a third ﬁeld goal. After Turner converted a short pass into a 9-yard gain to the 6 on third and 8, a pair of runs went nowhere before a dribbled shotgun snap forced a throwaway. “The scrimmage was a lot of situations where I can really learn from,” Chriss-Gremillion said. “There’s a couple things as a unit we can clean up.” Hall did not tip his hand on which way he was leaning, but he explained what he was looking for in a starting quarterback. “Drive us to score, don’t turn the ball over,” he said. “We tell our quarterbacks there are going to be about ﬁve plays a game where you have the opportunity to help us win the game. The other plays, you’re going to have an opportunity to lose the game. You have to play within the system and take what the defense gives you.” The Tulane defense has not given away much during preseason

Devin Neal was making his preseason debut after missing the opener with a hamstring injury, but the second-year running back came up limping after a 4-yard run near the end of the first quarter. He was briefly examined in the medical tent on the sideline before making his way back to the locker room with another hamstring injury. Neal had just returned to the practice field this week for joint practices. He had an opportunity to solidify his claim for a roster spot as the Saints were already dealing with injuries in the backfield to Alvin Kamara (knee) and Audric Estime (ankle), but he left after rushing for 7 yards on two carries. Several other players also left the game early with injuries, including Styles (calf), offensive lineman Torricelli Simpkins (concussion), wide receiver Bub Means (hamstring) and defensive lineman Brian Taylor (stinger).

Odds and ends The Saints captains for Saturday’s game in Los Angeles all had ties to California: Matavao (UCLA), linebacker Jackson Sirmon (University of California), receiver Jalen Cropper (Fresno State) and safety Jordan Howden (San Diego native). … The Saints now have played seven games in SoFi Stadium since it opened in 2020 (counting both preseason and regular season). They are 2-5 in those games and have been outscored by 11 points per game on average. Against the Rams specifically, the Saints are 0-3 in SoFi and have been outscored 98-32.

CLEVELAND — As thunder rumbled around Huntington Bank Field following Saturday’s game, the Browns’ confusing quarterback competition grew stormier. Shedeur Sanders threw a touchdown pass and made good decisions in the Browns’ 31-7 preseason loss to the Buffalo Bills in perhaps his last chance to convince coach Todd Monken that he — and not Deshaun Watson — should be Cleveland’s starting quarterback. Sanders, competing with Watson to be the No. 1 QB and start against Jacksonville on Sept. 13, completed his first eight passes. He finished 9 of 11 for 74 yards with an interception on a ball he threw behind tight end Jermaine Terry, got tipped and picked by Damar Hamlin. Watson played poorly in the second half and was booed repeatedly by Cleveland’s sparse crowd. Afterward, the 30-yearold, who has been a polarizing figure almost since his arrival in a 2022 trade, fired back at his detractors. “I think the whole world knows. It has nothing to do about the performance. It’s a little bit more personal than that,” said Watson, who was playing his first home game since tearing his Achilles tendon in 2024. “I think that’s a disrespectful thing.” Watson dismissed the possibility that if he played better he would be treated more fairly. “Last time I played on this field, I tore my Achilles. And that same fan base, they cheered when I got hurt,” Watson said, referring to the game against Cincinnati on Oct. 20, 2024. Watson played into the fourth quarter and went 5 of 12 for 35 yards with an interception. He started last week’s exhibition opener as the Browns (0-2) lost in Chicago. Monken is nearing a decision on whether to start Watson, who due to his injuries and an NFL suspension, has started just 19 games for Cleveland since 2022 or go with Sanders, the wildly popular fifth-round pick who showed potential last season. RAVENS 13, VIKINGS 3: In Minneapolis, J.J. McCarthy had an erratic start for the Minnesota Vikings, completing 5 of 10 passes for 81 yards in a exhibition loss to Baltimore on Saturday, while undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano threw a touchdown pass to LaJohntay Wester for the Ravens. McCarthy played four series with the second-team offense before yielding to 11-year veteran Carson Wentz, leaving the picture unclear about who will be the No. 2 quarterback behind Kyler Murray. “We want to keep giving those guys opportunities,” said coach Kevin O’Connell, who’d planned to give McCarthy a little more playing time but decided to pull him after a couple of hard hits left him walking gingerly off the field. FALCONS 34, COLTS 6: In Indianapolis, Atlanta Falcons quarterbacks Cooper Rush and Jack Strand took advantage of perhaps their last opportunity to shine this season.

They’re about to be upstaged by the return of Michael Penix Jr. Rush, who was signed last month, and Strand, an undrafted rookie, completed 16 of their first 17 throws while leading the Falcons to scores on five of their first six drives in a 34-6 rout of the Indianapolis Colts, snapping Atlanta’s eight-game preseason losing streak. After the game, coach Kevin Stefanski said Penix, who started nine games last season before suffering a season-ending knee injury, would return to team drills Monday. “He is cleared, he is cleared for 11-on-11,” Stefanski said. “He’ll practice Monday in team periods.” LIONS 17, COMMANDERS 13: In Detroit, Joshua Dobbs ran for a 50yard touchdown and the Detroit Lions held on for a preseason win against the Washington Commanders on Saturday. Dobbs, expected to back up quarterback Jared Goff this season, was 7 for 12 for 74 yards with an interception and a fumble. He had two carries for 53 yards. Detroit (1-1) played a few starters, but none of its biggest stars. Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs, AmonRa St. Brown, Jameson Williams and Penei Sewell sat out on offense, and Aidan Hutchinson was among the defensive absences. Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels started, but he and much of the starting offense left after going three-and-out on the first series. Daniels was sacked once and threw an incompletion on his only pass attempt. PACKERS 33, BRONCOS 13: In Denver, Bo Nix ‘s 21-yard touchdown toss to R.J. Harvey two plays after hooking up with new speedster Jaylen Waddle for 35 yards highlighted the Denver quarterback’s return successful return from a broken ankle in the Broncos’ loss to the Green Bay Packers on Friday night. “It felt great,” Nix said after working with new play-caller Davis Webb for the first time in a game. “Just like any typical year, going out for the first drive, there’s going to be some different things that you can grow from. But I felt like for the first drive of the season it was solid. “I think the strongest emotion was when I got out there it was just like riding a bike; nothing really changed.” GIANTS 26, DOLPHINS 3: In Miami Gardens, Florida, the New York Giants appeared to be the better team during their joint practice with the Miami Dolphins this week. New York validated that performance in Saturday’s preseason game. Jameis Winston threw for 150 yards and ran for a touchdown while playing the first half, and the Giants cruised to a victory over the Dolphins. Devin Singletary ran for a touchdown and finished with 40 yards on eight carries. The Giants (1-1) got the rest of their points on two field goals each by Dominic Zvada and Ben Sauls. “Every single day we’re looking to be a better team,” Winston said. “Every practice. Every rep, we’re striving to be better.”

Year 3 or more that now it’s their time. He’s put the work in.” The defense came oh-so-close to preventing any touchdowns, but Gale, a wide receiver getting time at running back, reversed ﬁeld and raced around the left side on his 20-yard score. “I was a little disappointed after we went to all of our young guys in the way our offense executed early on,” Hall said. “We had some breakdowns, but the defense had great energy.”

Lagniappe

STAFF PHOTO By CHRIS GRANGER

Tulane quarterback Zeon Chriss-Gremillion hands the ball off to running back Johnnie Daniels on Aug. 11 during practice at yulman Stadium. camp. An already deep secondary produced a new candidate for playing time in Green, a backup safety who supplemented his interception with a terriﬁc tackle of walk-on running back Jake Randle

(Newman) in the backﬁeld. “Chase is a guy that really made a jump in the spring,” Hall said. “The pick he made today was just a phenomenal play. He looked like the receiver. He’s another guy in

William Hudlow, the frontrunner to win the punting job, struggled on all three of his attempts during a break in the scrimmage. He hit a low 35-yarder, shanked a 28-yarder and ﬁnished with a 37-yarder. Freshman Brooks Moore had efforts of 48, 47 and 39 yards. … Helmke was wide left on a 42-yard ﬁeld goal attempt at the end of one possession, while Courville came up short on a 57-yarder that was on line. … Having wrapped up camp, the Green Wave will be off until Tuesday.

6C ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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SCOREBOARD Odds

Wyndham Clark Patrick Cantlay Rory McIlroy Chris Gotterup Gary Woodland Collin Morikawa Sungjae Im Eric Cole Ryo Hisatsune Maverick McNealy J.J. Spaun Michael Brennan Russell Henley Jacob Bridgeman Akshay Bhatia Ryan Gerard Robert MacIntyre Alex Noren Scottie Schefﬂer Justin Thomas Cameron Young Ludvig Åberg Sam Burns Matt Fitzpatrick Viktor Hovland Aaron Rai Sepp Straka Matthew McCarty Xander Schauffele Adam Scott Alex Smalley Michael Thorbjornsen Kurt Kitayama Kristoffer Reitan Alex Fitzpatrick Rickie Fowler Ben Grifﬁn Nicolai Højgaard Si Woo Kim Tom Kim J.T. Poston Justin Rose Bud Cauley Hideki Matsuyama Ryan Fox Min Woo Lee Sahith Theegala Tommy Fleetwood Jake Knapp Nicolas Echavarria

Sports Betting Line NFL Sunday

FAVORITE OPEN TODAY O/U UNDERDOG at TENNESSEE 3 4½ (37½) Seattle

MLB

Sunday

American League FAVORITE LINE Tampa Bay -118 at N.Y YANKEES -146 at HOUSTON OFF at KANSAS CITY OFF at TEXAS OFF National League FAVORITE LINE at PHILA -217 at MIAMI -166 at LA DODGERS -290 at ARIZONA -181 at MILWAUKEE -135 Interleague FAVORITE LINE at WHITE SOX OFF Cleveland -140 at BOSTON OFF Chicago Cubs -113 at SAN DIEGO -139

UNDERDOG LINE at BALTIMORE -104 Toronto +119 Athletics OFF Detroit OFF LA Angels OFF UNDERDOG St. Louis Washington Pittsburgh Cincinnati Atlanta

LINE +169 +134 +235 +159 +110

UNDERDOG LINE N.Y Mets OFF at COLORADO +123 San Francisco OFF at SEATTLE -110 Minnesota +122

Pro basketball WNBA Glance EASTERN CONFERENCE Indiana Atlanta New York Washington Chicago Toronto Connecticut

W 24 23 22 21 15 11 9

L 13 13 15 15 22 25 26

Pct GB .649 — .639 ½ .595 2 .583 2½ .405 9 .306 12½ .257 14

x-Minnesota x-Golden State x-Las Vegas Dallas Portland Phoenix Los Angeles Seattle

W 31 25 25 21 15 13 12 7

L 7 11 13 16 21 23 24 30

Pct GB .816 — .694 5 .658 6 .568 9½ .417 15 .361 17 .333 18 .189 23½

WESTERN CONFERENCE

x-clinched playoff spot Friday’s Games

64-64-65—193 67-65-66—198 64-69-65—198 64-67-68—199 64-65-70—199 68-65-67—200 67-64-70—201 67-68-67—202 65-70-67—202 67-66-69—202 64-66-72—202 69-65-69—203 67-66-70—203 66-72-66—204 67-68-70—205 70-66-69—205 68-69-68—205 71-69-65—205 72-65-68—205 67-67-71—205 71-65-69—205 66-70-69—205 71-67-68—206 65-72-69—206 71-63-72—206 68-71-67—206 73-68-65—206 70-67-70—207 70-66-71—207 68-68-71—207 69-68-70—207 66-66-75—207 72-68-68—208 67-67-74—208 66-72-71—209 71-69-69—209 68-73-68—209 73-71-65—209 70-69-70—209 72-69-68—209 70-70-69—209 69-67-73—209 73-69-68—210 72-68-70—210 71-69-71—211 69-72-70—211 71-72-68—211 69-69-74—212 67-72-76—215 69-74-73—216

CPKC Women’s Open

-17 -12 -12 -11 -11 -10 -9 -8 -8 -8 -8 -7 -7 -6 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -4 -4 -4 -4 -4 -3 -3 -3 -3 -3 -2 -2 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 -1 E E +1 +1 +1 +2 +5 +6

Saturday

At Royal Mayfair Golf Club Edmonton, Alberta Purse: $2.8 million Yardage: 6,452; Par: 70 Third Round Miyu Yamashita 62-64-65—191 Gina Kim 66-67-64—197 Yuri Yoshida 65-66-66—197 Jennifer Kupcho 66-68-64—198 Somi Lee 69-65-65—199 Aphrodite Deng 70-67-63—200 Sei Young Kim 68-68-64—200 Kiara Romero 64-67-69—200 Ruoning Yin 65-67-68—200 Laney Frye 66-67-68—201 Ariya Jutanugarn 66-68-67—201 Dongeun Lee 68-69-64—201 Soo Bin Joo 68-63-71—202 Natasha Andrea Oon 68-65-69—202 Ana Belac 73-65-65—203 Manon De Roey 71-67-65—203 Nataliya Guseva 67-71-65—203 Nasa Hataoka 63-69-71—203 Brooke Henderson 67-68-68—203 Anna Huang 65-68-70—203 Yan Liu 67-69-67—203 Mao Saigo 66-67-70—203 Na Rin An 70-68-66—204 Ayaka Furue 68-66-70—204 Gurleen Kaur 68-66-70—204 Jodi Ewart Shadoff 70-68-67—205 Nanna Koerstz Madsen 68-67-70—205 Riley Smyth 70-66-69—205 Amy Yang 69-70-66—205 Pajaree Anannarukarn 69-68-69—206 Nicole Broch Estrup 69-67-70—206 Karis Davidson 69-67-70—206 Gemma Dryburgh 67-67-72—206 Chizzy Iwai 69-70-67—206 Nelly Korda 67-70-69—206 Alison Lee 69-70-67—206 Brooke Matthews 68-69-69—206 Cassie Porter 69-68-69—206 Ashleigh Buhai 72-68-67—207 Robyn Choi 71-66-70—207 Hye Jin Choi 71-68-68—207 Lindy Duncan 71-69-67—207 Grace Kim 67-69-71—207 Yuna Nishimura 72-68-67—207 Chiara Tamburlini 71-69-67—207 S. Vinijchaitham 68-68-71—207 Carlota Ciganda 69-71-68—208 Melanie Green 69-69-70—208 Hyo Joo Kim 68-72-68—208 Lydia Ko 70-69-69—208 Mi Hyang Lee 71-68-69—208 Mary Liu 66-69-73—208 Gaby Lopez 71-69-68—208 Olivia Cowan 68-72-69—209

Minnesota 94, Washington 84 Chicago 73, Golden State 70 Toronto 82, Portland 79

Saturday’s Games

New York 109, Indiana 102 Connecticut at Los Angeles, 8 p.m. Atlanta at Phoenix, 9 p.m.

Sunday’s Games

Seattle at Dallas, 3 p.m. Indiana at Chicago, 6 p.m. Las Vegas at Toronto, 6 p.m

Monday’s Games

Golden State at Minnesota, 7 p.m. Atlanta at Los Angeles, 9 p.m.

Pro football NFL glance Thursday’s Games

Las Vegas 22, Houston 20 San Francisco 41, L.A. Chargers 17

Friday’s Games

N.Y. Jets 17, Pittsburgh 0 Carolina 34, Jacksonville 17 Green Bay 33, Denver 13

Saturday’s Games

Detroit 17, Washington 13 Atlanta 34, Indianapolis 6 Baltimore 13, Minnesota 3 Buffalo 31, Cleveland 7 L.A. Rams 34, New Orleans 0 N.Y. Giants 26, Miami 3 Chicago at Cincinnati, n Philadelphia at New England, n Kansas City at Tampa Bay, n Dallas at Arizona, n

Sunday’s Games

Seattle at Tennessee, 7 p.m.

Golf BMW Championship Saturday

At Bellerive Country Club Saint Louis, Mo. Purse: $20 million Yardage: 7,448; Par: 70 Third Round

RABALAIS

-19 -13 -13 -12 -11 -10 -10 -10 -10 -9 -9 -9 -8 -8 -7 -7 -7 -7 -7 -7 -7 -7 -6 -6 -6 -5 -5 -5 -5 -4 -4 -4 -4 -4 -4 -4 -4 -4 -3 -3 -3 -3 -3 -3 -3 -3 -2 -2 -2 -2 -2 -2 -2 -1

when Weis was Kiffin’s offensive coordinator at Florida Atlantic and the past four seasons when Weis served in that same capacity at Ole Miss is clear. “It frees me up so much,” Kiffin said during LSU’s first week of preseason camp. “I spent 30 minutes this morning on a call with this transfer/compliance thing, which is something I couldn’t have done a few years ago because there was an offense (staff) meeting. “The Charlie benefit is huge for our program.” The influences on the Weis playbook are numerous. There’s his father, Charlie Weis Sr., a longtime NFL offensive coordinator and head coach at

Continued from page 1C may be flying under the radar in terms of what he means for the Tigers’ chances of being a College Football Playoff contender in 2026. Well, under some radars. Not Kiffin’s. “I try to let coordinators do their job,” Kiffin said recently. “I have an overview of who we play and our overall philosophy.” That certainly applies to Baker, since Kiffin’s background isn’t defense, but also to Weis. The trust built from their one season together at Alabama, two seasons

Michelle Xing Briana Chacon Soﬁa Garcia Maude-Aimee Leblanc Michelle Zhang Hailee Cooper Clairey Lin Jenny Shin Kelly Zhang Allisen Corpuz Savannah Grewal Jennifer Chang Amanda Doherty Benedetta Moresco Kum Kang Park

65-73-71—209 71-65-74—210 71-68-71—210 68-71-72—211 73-67-71—211 69-68-75—212 68-72-72—212 73-67-72—212 72-66-74—212 71-68-74—213 70-69-74—213 70-69-75—214 70-70-74—214 70-70-74—214 69-71-74—214

Rogers Charity Classic

-1 E E +1 +1 +2 +2 +2 +2 +3 +3 +4 +4 +4 +4

Saturday’s Games

TCU vs. North Carolina at Dublin, 11 a.m.

BIG SKY CONFERENCE Friday’s Games

Weber St. at N. Colorado, 8 p.m. Idaho at Cal Poly, 9 p.m.

Saturday’s Games

UC Davis at Portland St., 2 p.m. E. Washington at N. Arizona, 4 p.m. VMI at Idaho St., 5 p.m. Sacramento St. at E. Michigan, 5:30 p.m. S. Utah at Montana, 8 p.m. Montana St. at Utah Tech, 9 p.m.

BIG SOUTH Thursday’s Games

Charleston Southern at Lindenwood (Mo.), 6 p.m. Northwestern (IA) at W. Illinois, 6 p.m. E. Illinois at Murray St., 6 p.m. Gardner-Webb at Austin Peay, 6 p.m. Cent. Arkansas at UT Martin, 6:30 p.m.

Saturday

At Canyon Meadows G&CC Calgary, Alberta Purse: $2.5 million Yardage: 7,068; Par: 70 Second Round Ryan Armour 65-63—128 Steven Alker 68-61—129 Michael Block 65-65—130 Brian Gay 66-64—130 Richard Green 63-67—130 J.J. Henry 68-62—130 Miguel Ángel Jiménez 64-66—130 Zach Johnson 68-62—130 Rob Labritz 63-67—130 Bo Van Pelt 68-62—130 Michael Wright 66-64—130 Y.E. Yang 67-64—131 Jason Bohn 67-65—132 Ricardo Gonzalez 67-65—132 Retief Goosen 66-66—132 Jerry Kelly 65-67—132 Mark Wilson 71-61—132 Jason Caron 65-68—133 Steve Flesch 69-64—133 Thongchai Jaidee 65-68—133 Tom Lehman 69-64—133 Tim Petrovic 66-67—133 Warren Pineo 67-66—133 Tag Ridings 66-67—133 John Rollins 66-67—133 Vaughn Taylor 67-66—133 Mike Weir 67-66—133 Michael Allen 65-69—134 David Bransdon 68-66—134 Jamie Donaldson 71-63—134 Mathew Goggin 66-68—134 Robert Karlsson 69-65—134 Scott Parel 68-66—134 Greg Chalmers 68-67—135 Chris DiMarco 67-68—135 Ken Duke 69-66—135 Harrison Frazar 67-68—135 Matt Gogel 68-67—135 Paul Goydos 70-65—135 Søren Kjeldsen 67-68—135 Timothy O’Neal 69-66—135 Mario Tiziani 68-67—135 K.J. Choi 71-65—136 Mark Hensby 67-69—136 Tim Herron 69-67—136 Rod Pampling 70-66—136 Tom Pernice 68-68—136 Ken Tanigawa 69-67—136 Kirk Triplett 70-66—136 Boo Weekley 70-66—136 Stephen Ames 70-67—137 Cameron Beckman 70-67—137 Kevin Sutherland 70-67—137 Charlie Wi 70-67—137 Steve Allan 70-68—138 Bernhard Langer 69-69—138 Brett Quigley 73-65—138 Vijay Singh 69-69—138 Heath Slocum 71-67—138 Stuart Appleby 70-69—139 Shane Bertsch 70-69—139 Woody Austin 71-69—140 Brandt Jobe 71-69—140 Chris Devlin 71-70—141 Carlos Franco 71-70—141 John Senden 71-70—141 Paul Stankowski 71-70—141 Olin Browne 70-72—142 Wes Martin 72-70—142 Michael Brown 76-67—143 David Duval 71-72—143 Tommy Gainey 69-74—143 Scott McCarron 68-75—143 Steve Pate 76-69—145 Esteban Toledo 76-70—146 Corey Pavin 73-74—147 Jeff Maggert 73-75—148 Duffy Waldorf 76-74—150

-12 -11 -10 -10 -10 -10 -10 -10 -10 -10 -10 -9 -8 -8 -8 -8 -8 -7 -7 -7 -7 -7 -7 -7 -7 -7 -7 -6 -6 -6 -6 -6 -6 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -5 -4 -4 -4 -4 -4 -4 -4 -4 -3 -3 -3 -3 -2 -2 -2 -2 -2 -1 -1 E E +1 +1 +1 +1 +2 +2 +3 +3 +3 +3 +5 +6 +7 +8 +10

Collge football AMERICAN CONFRENCE Saturday’s Games

TCU vs. North Carolina at Dublin, 11 a.m. NC State at Virginia, 2:30 p.m. Hawaii at Stanford, 6 p.m. New Mexico St. at Florida St., 6 p.m

BIG 12 CONFERENCE

Notre Dame when the Tigers beat the Fighting Irish in the 2007 Sugar Bowl. There was a year spent on Steve Sarkisian’s staff with the Atlanta Falcons in 2017 before Weis went to FAU. Then there is the Kendal Briles factor. Briles was the play-caller in 2017 during Kiffin’s first season at FAU, his up-tempo “veer and shoot” offensive style making a big imprint on the Kiffin offensive attack. Weis added pro-style layers and run-pass options to the offense at FAU and later at Ole Miss — he spent two seasons in between at South Florida, where the offense scuffled by comparison. That created the offense that helped lead Ole Miss to an

Alabama St. vs. Southern U. at Birmingham, Ala., 2 p.m. Miles at Alcorn St., 6 p.m. NC Central at Texas Southern, 6 p.m. Albany St. (Ga.) at Florida A&M, 6 p.m. Clark Atlanta at Grambling St., 6 p.m. Ark.-Pine Bluff vs. Morehouse at Little Rock, Ark., 6 p.m. Howard vs. Alabama A&M at Atlanta, 6:30 p.m. Jackson St. at Tennessee St., 7:30 p.m. Prairie View at Tarleton St., 8 p.m.

SUN BELT CONFERENCE Friday’s Games

NC A&T at Georgia St., 6 p.m.

Saturday’s Games

BIG TEN CONFERENCE Saturday’s Games

Liberty at James Madison, 11 a.m. Coastal Carolina at West Virginia, 11 a.m. Maine at Appalachian St., 2:30 p.m. Texas State at Texas, 2:30 p.m. Marshall at Penn St., 2:30 p.m. Alcorn St. at Southern Miss., 4 p.m. Norfolk St. at Old Dominion, 5 p.m. SE Louisiana at South Alabama, 6 p.m. Charleston Southern at Georgia Southern, 6 p.m. Sam Houston St. at Troy, 6 p.m. Arkansas St. at Memphis, 6 p.m. Louisiana-Monroe at Mississippi St., 6:30 p.m. Lamar at Louisiana-Lafayette, 7 p.m.

COASTAL ATHLETIC Thursday’s Games

Tennis

Saturday’s Games

SE Missouri at Indiana St., 5 p.m. Monmouth (NJ) at Tennessee Tech, 6 p.m. Jackson St. at Tennessee St., 7:30 p.m.

San Jose St. at Southern Cal, 2 p.m.

Maine at Towson, 5 p.m. Stony Brook at Delaware St., 5 p.m. Glenville St. at Elon, 6 p.m.

Friday’s Games

William & Mary at Villanova, 5 p.m. Rhode Island at Merrimack, 5 p.m. New Hampshire at Albany (NY), 7 p.m.

Saturday’s Games

Campbell at ETSU, 4:30 p.m. Morgan St. at NC A&T, 5 p.m. Va. Lynchburg at Hampton, 5 p.m. Bryant at Stonehill, 5 p.m. Monmouth (NJ) at Tennessee Tech, 6 p.m.

Western & Southern Open Results Saturday

At Lindner Family Tennis Center Cincinnati Purse: $9,415,725 Surface: Hardcourt outdoor Results Saturday from Western & Southern Open at Lindner Family Tennis Center (seedings in parentheses):

Men’s Singles

Jacksonville St. at N. Dakota St., 4:30 p.m. New Mexico St. at Florida St., 6 p.m.

Semiﬁnals Arthur Fils (21), France, def. Flavio Cobolli (7), Italy, 6-3, 6-4. Frances Tiafoe (17), United States, def. Brandon Nakashima (27), United States, 7-5, 6-3.

Sacramento St. at E. Michigan, 4:30 p.m.

Semiﬁnals Jessica Pegula (3), United States, def. Iga Swiatek (7), Poland, 7-5, 4-6, 6-4.

CONFERENCE USA Saturday’s Games

MID-AMERICAN CONFERENCE Saturday’s Games

Women’s Singles

MOUNTAIN WEST Saturday’s Games

Men’s Doubles

San Jose St. at Southern Cal, 2 p.m. Hawaii at Stanford, 6 p.m. Memphis at UNLV, 9 p.m.

NORTHEAST CONFERENCE Thursday’s Games

Mercyhurst at Youngstown St., 5 p.m. LIU Brooklyn at North Dakota, 7 p.m.

Saturday’s Games

Robert Morris at Wagner, 11 a.m. CCSU at South Dakota, 1 p.m. Bryant at Stonehill, 5 p.m.

PAC-12 Saturday’s Games

Oregon St. at Houston, 11 a.m.

Semiﬁnals Robin Haase, Netherlands, and Constantin Frantzen, Germany, def. Marcel Granollers, Spain, and Horacio Zeballos (2), Argentina, 6-3, 3-6, 10-5. Rafael Matos and Orlando Luz, Brazil, def. Edouard Roger-Vasselin, France, and Hugo Nys, Monaco, 6-4, 2-6, 10-2.

Women’s Doubles

Championship Marie Bouzkova and Linda Noskova, Czechia, def. Alexandra Panova, Russia, and Magali Kempen, Belgium, 6-1, 6-2.

Transactions

SEC Thursday’s Games

Major League Baseball

Friday’s Games

MINNESOTA TWINS — Agreed to terms with RHP Ron Marinaccio on a minor league contract. SEATTLE MARINERS — Designated LHP Jhonathan Díaz for assignment. Selected the contract of LHP Kade Anderson from Arkansas (TL). TORONTO BLUE JAYS — Reinstated 1B Vladimir Guerrero Jr. from the seven-day IL. Optioned OF Davis Schneider to Buffalo (IL). National League COLORADO ROCKIES — Sent LHP Parker Mushinski outright to Albuquerque (PCL). LOS ANGELES DODGERS — Recalled OF Alek Thomas from Oklahoma City (PCL). Placed OF Andy Pages on the 10-day IL. MIAMI MARLINS — Optioned C Logan Driscoll to Jacksonville (IL). Recalled 3B Deyvison De Los Santos from Jacksonville. ST. LOUIS CARDINALS — Placed RHP Hunter Dobbins on the 15-day IL. Recalled LHP Quinn Mathews from Memphis (IL). WASHINGTON NATIONALS — Transferred LHP Connelly Early to the 60-day IL. Claimed RHP Matt Waldron off waivers from Toronto.

Ark.-Pine Bluff at Missouri, 7 p.m. UTEP at Oklahoma, 7 p.m.

Saturday’s Games

East Carolina at Alabama, 11 a.m. Kent St. at South Carolina, 11:45 p.m. Youngstown St. at Kentucky, noon Tennessee St. at Georgia, 2 p.m. Auburn vs. Baylor at Atlanta, 1:30 p.m. Texas State at Texas, 2:30 p.m. Furman at Tennessee, 2:30 p.m. North Alabama at Arkansas, 3:15 p.m. Austin Peay at Vanderbilt, 6 p.m. Missouri St. at Texas A&M, 6 p.m. ULM at Mississippi St., 6:30 p.m. Clemson at LSU, 6:30 p.m. FAU at Florida, 6:45 p.m.

SOUTHLAND CONFERENCE Thursday’s Games

MVSU at Nicholls, 6 p.m. Houston Christian at SE Louisiana, 6 p.m. Louisiana College at Northwestern St., 7 p.m.

Saturday’s Games

Stephen F. Austin at McNeese St., 6 p.m. Okla. Panhandle St. at Incarnate Word, 6 p.m. Abilene Christian at Lamar, 6 p.m. East Texas A&M at Mercer, 6 p.m. Texas-Permian Basin at UT Rio Grande Valley, 7 p.m.

American League

FOOTBALL

National Football League LAS VEGAS RAIDERS — Placed CB Chigozie Anusiem on injured reserve. MIAMI DOLPHINS — Released CB Nick McCloud.

SOCCER

MVSU at Nicholls, 6 p.m.

Major League Soccer LA GALAXY — Signed M Brett Phan and D Mason Vanney to short-term agreements. SAN DIEGO FC — Loaned F Anisse Saidi to S.L. Benﬁca (Portugal).

11-1 regular season in 2025 under Kiffin and a trip to the CFP semifinals with Weis still calling the plays after accepting the LSU job. “It’s a really cool system,” Weis said. “I got to be at FAU for a little bit with Kendal Briles when he first got there. Got to learn when he was installing it with the offensive staff. A month or so. “It was so cool to see how different they saw the game. My dad was a pro-style guy, super NFL. Coach Kiffin was very similar at Alabama and at previous spots. It was cool when we got to see some of the wide split elements, the tempo elements that allow them to play really fast. Over time, we’ve molded this thing where there

are some more pro-style concepts within it, but the bones still exist from that (Briles) system.” Weis is just 33, but if the LSU offense this season has success similar to what Ole Miss had — since 2022 the Rebels have ranked eighth, 13th, second and third nationally in total offense — he could be fielding multiple head coaching offers in a few months. He could find himself in a similar position to where Kiffin was with the LSU job this past November. “It speaks a lot to Charlie,” Kiffin said. “You’re doing that in the SEC. It’s why he’s so sought after.” Good bet Weis won’t be asked to take another memory test ever again.

SWAC Thursday’s Games Saturday’s Games

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lll

PRO BASEBALL LOUISIANA PROS

MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL STANDINGS American League

Major league hitters Player Alex Bregman Dylan Crews Jake Fraley Jake Rogers David Fry Hunter Feduccia Tommy White Josh Smith

State ties LSU LSU LSU Tulane NW State LSU LSU LSU

Pos 3B OF OF C 1B C 3B 2B

Team (Organization) Cubs Nationals Rays White Sox Guardians Dodgers Athletics Blue Jays

G 126 78 28 46 71 75 30 59

AB 500 286 82 118 143 172 113 164

R H 71 129 40 60 6 19 16 21 16 26 20 40 12 28 16 36

2B 24 11 7 4 4 9 2 3

3B 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 1

HR 18 10 2 4 6 3 2 3

RBI 66 27 5 13 13 13 4 11

SB 3 8 3 1 0 0 0 4

Avg. .258 .210 .232 .178 .182 .233 .248 .220

OPS .765 .633 .690 .616 .639 .656 .592 .608

Minor league hitters Triple A

Name Drew Avans Jacob Berry Tre’ Morgan Hayden Cantrelle Julian Brock Carson Roccaforte

State ties Pos Southeastern LF LSU 3B LSU 1B UL SS UL C UL OF

Team Albequerque (Rockies) Jacksonville (Marlins) Durham (Rays) Iowa (Cubs) Round Rock (Rangers) Omaha (Royals)

G 90 81 55 90 60 114

AB 307 273 206 237 211 450

R H 51 63 43 69 29 49 42 54 31 44 81 113

2B 9 17 8 9 9 19

3B 2 0 1 5 1 5

HR 1 7 14 3 6 30

RBI 39 38 35 23 35 81

SB 24 18 1 22 3 22

Avg. .205 .253 .238 .228 .209 .251

OPS .583 .764 .806 .699 666 .852

Kyle DeBarge Jacob Burke Edgar Alvarez Taylor Young Jorge Corona Miguel Useche Colin Tuft Luke Hill

UL U-High Nicholls La. Tech La. Tech UNO Tulane Episcopal

SS OF 1B 2B C C C 3B

Wichita (Twins) Birmingham (White Sox) Knoxville (Cubs) Tulsa (Dodgers) Birmingham (White Sox) Knoxville (Cubs) Chesapeake (Orioles) Akron (Guardians)

101 73 91 61 49 70 78 60

389 259 285 217 159 237 263 201

63 48 43 45 25 43 47 46

82 64 53 71 35 64 59 51

21 14 13 14 5 13 14 16

1 2 1 0 1 1 5 1

12 5 9 5 7 11 12 11

43 25 37 33 21 43 40 45

28 15 1 15 1 6 24 12

.211 .247 .186 .327 .220 .270 .224 .254

.679 .691 .662 .886 .699 .846 .803 .899

Cade Doughty Kyle Walker Daniel Dickinson Ethan Frey Teo Banks Jared Jones

LSU Rummel LSU LSU Tulane LSU

2B 2B SS OF OF 1B

Rome (Braves) Asheville (Astros) Wisconsin (Brewers) Asheville (Astros) Wilmington (Nationals) Greensboro (Pirates)

52 85 103 70 78 84

164 331 339 267 235 308

27 53 66 45 36 62

40 81 93 77 60 95

10 20 24 16 13 11

1 2 1 1 1 0

4 4 9 10 6 17

22 36 61 56 34 61

3 32 50 19 14 0

.244 .245 .274 .288 .255 .308

.705 .695 .857 .845 .731 .920

Connor Rasmussen Brady Marget Conner O’Neal

Tulane SS Tulane 1B Southeastern C

Columbia (Royals) Charleston (Rays) Ontario (Dodgers)

76 67 64

236 237 218

41 48 32

62 81 50

11 18 11

3 0 0

3 5 8

33 62 34

11 1 1

.263 .342 .229

.763 .919 .742

Cardell Thibodeaux

Southern

FCL Braves

.190

.658

Double A

High A

Single A

Rookie

Major league pitchers Player Paul Skenes Seth Lugo Kevin Gausman Will Warren Aaron Nola Spencer Arrighetti Grant Taylor Jake Latz Brandon Young Gage Jump Hogan Harris Bryan King Alex Lange Grant Anderson Jaden Hill Phil Maton Cade Gibson Jacob Waguespack Will Dion Paul Gervase Cam Sanders Tanner Rainey

State ties LSU Centenary LSU Southeastern LSU UL LSU LSU UL LSU UL McNeese LSU McNeese St. LSU La. Tech La. Tech Dutchtown McNeese St. LSU LSU St. Paul’s

Team Pirates Royals Blue Jays Yankees Phillies Blue Jays White Sox Rangers Orioles Athletics Athletics Astros Royals Brewers Rockies Cubs Marlins Tigers Nationals Dodgers Orioles Tigers

G 26 26 26 25 26 18 49 46 21 16 58 51 48 47 33 31 31 21 17 4 17 3

GS 26 26 26 24 26 17 4 1 21 16 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0

IP 139.0 145.1 143.1 122.0 137.0 91.1 67.0 58.0 117.2 82.0 54.2 53.0 49.2 51.1 27.2 27.2 36.2 27.2 31.2 7.2 18.1 3.2

W-L 9-11 5-7 6-11 8-6 5-9 7-6 5-2 3-1 9-3 5-8 3-2 2-3 2-7 3-3 0-2 0-1 2-0 1-1 1-0 0-0 1-1 0-0

SV 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 25 0 0 12 6 10 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 0

H 118 155 146 128 148 71 46 26 117 84 51 57 49 36 27 34 38 14 26 7 14 1

ER 61 76 73 60 78 48 15 11 46 44 25 28 33 20 15 19 22 6 10 2 13 0

BB 41 46 40 43 46 52 22 17 42 40 35 19 26 20 17 16 17 9 7 5 13 4

SO 171 111 143 122 146 91 87 63 96 88 72 44 53 45 30 31 32 16 38 8 23 4

ERA 3.95 4.71 4.58 4.43 5.12 4.73 2.01 1.71 3.52 4.83 3.79 4.75 5.98 3.51 4.88 6.18 5.40 1.95 2.84 2.35 6.38 0.00

WHIP 1.14 1.38 1.30 1.40 1.42 1.35 1.01 0.74 1.35 1.51 1.57 1.43 1.51 1.09 1.59 1.81 1.50 0.83 1.04 1.57 1.47 1.36

East Division Tampa Bay New York Boston Toronto Baltimore

W 76 73 69 64 63

L 53 56 59 67 67

Pct .589 .566 .539 .489 .485

GB — 3 6½ 13 13½

Chicago Cleveland Minnesota Detroit Kansas City

W 67 63 63 61 57

L 61 66 66 68 74

Pct .523 .488 .488 .473 .435

GB — 4½ 4½ 6½ 11½

Houston Texas Seattle Los Angeles Athletics

W 65 64 62 52 50

L 65 66 68 78 80

Pct .500 .492 .477 .400 .385

GB — 1 3 13 15

Central Division

West Division

Friday’s games

Baltimore 5, Tampa Bay 3 N.Y. Yankees 3, Toronto 1 Boston 6, San Francisco 4 Chicago White Sox 6, N.Y. Mets 4 Kansas City 5, Detroit 2 Houston 4, Athletics 0 Texas 2, L.A. Angels 1, 10 innings Cleveland 9, Colorado 1 San Diego 6, Minnesota 2 Seattle 6, Chicago Cubs 5, 10 innings

Saturday’s games

Player Grant Rogers Jackson Nezuh Chase Solesky Eric Reyzelman Ricky Castro Kyle Keller Brendan Cellucci Cole Henry Brian Metoyer Aidan Anderson Eric Orze

State ties McNeese UL Tulane LSU Tulane Southeastern Tulane LSU LSU-Alexandria McNeese UNO

Team Buffalo (Blue Jays) Sugar Land (Astros) Louisville (Reds) Scr./Wil.-Bar. (Yankees) St. Paul’s (Twins) Worcester (Red Sox) Buffalo (Blue Jays) Rochester (Nationals) Syracuse (Mets) Charlotte (White Sox) St. Paul (Twins)

G 23 19 27 33 27 23 40 23 41 28 9

GS 23 17 7 0 10 0 0 2 0 0 0

IP 107.1 88.0 60.2 39.0 62.2 31.1 45.2 22.0 46.0 42.0 9.1

W-L 3-10 3-2 5-6 2-3 6-2 3-3 6-2 2-1 4-2 1-1 0-0

SV 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 4 0 3

H 132 71 74 34 75 27 39 24 33 37 4

ER 70 40 44 31 37 14 18 15 21 18 2

BB 34 39 24 24 27 22 22 2 25 15 1

SO 65 105 58 62 72 39 48 21 73 24 7

ERA 5.87 4.09 6.53 7.15 5.31 4.02 3.55 6.14 4.11 3.86 1.93

WHIP 1.55 1.25 1.62 1.49 1.63 1.56 1.34 1.18 1.26 1.24 0.54

Kade Anderson Kenya Huggins Anthony Eyanson Fidel Ulloa Beau Blanchard Keagan Gillies Nathan Blasick Tayler Montiel

LSU St. Augustine LSU LSU ULM Tulane UNO Tulane

Arkansas (Mariners) 18 Midland (Athletics) 25 Chesapeake (Orioles) 19 Hartford (Rockies) 31 Chattanooga (Reds) 23 Chesapeake (Orioles) 28 Hartford (Rockies) 33 Amaril. (Diamondbacks) 36

18 9 18 0 13 0 0 0

93.1 76.0 85.2 40.2 85.0 31.2 56.2 54.1

10-1 1-4 6-1 5-2 5-7 2-0 10-5 3-2

0 3 0 7 1 2 6 4

47 96 48 30 94 28 46 50

11 56 15 11 56 16 23 26

13 44 31 24 36 9 23 28

135 81 118 42 85 38 64 72

1.06 6.63 1.58 2.43 5.93 4.55 3.65 4.31

0.64 1.84 0.92 1.33 1.53 1.17 1.22 1.44

Justin Loer L.P. Langevin Jarret Whorff Christian Little Andrew Landry Chase Shores Jackson Lancaster Ty Floyd Jacob Mayers Dylan Carmouche Chandler Welch Blayne Enlow

LSU UL La. Tech LSU Southeastern LSU La. Tech LSU LSU Tulane Tulane St. Amant

Spokane (Rockies) Quad Cities (Royals) Rome (Braves) Everett (Mariners) Hud. Valley (Yankees) Tri-City (Angels) Bowling Green (Rays) Dayton (Reds) Greenville (Red Sox) Win.-Salem (White Sox) Wisconsin (Brewers) Rome (Braves)

31 36 35 35 32 13 27 10 19 18 24 20

0 0 0 0 0 13 0 8 12 5 1 1

60.1 49.1 45.2 48.0 42.1 54.0 35.0 32.0 58.0 41.1 59.1 24.1

3-3 5-3 1-4 3-5 3-3 3-2 1-1 0-2 2-3 2-3 7-4 1-2

3 2 3 8 2 0 1 0 1 0 2 0

51 21 59 27 41 51 47 19 35 53 56 28

37 17 45 16 20 27 40 11 26 36 35 22

45 38 16 23 19 24 27 18 55 29 33 13

60 5.52 95 3.10 46 8.87 60 3.00 49 4.25 57 4.50 37 10.29 37 3.09 80 4.03 44 7.84 57 5.31 27 8.14

1.59 1.20 1.64 1.04 1.42 1.39 2.11 1.16 1.55 1.98 1.50 1.68

Michael Lombardi Brennan Stuprich Sam Brodersen Luke Holman Thatcher Hurd Logan Forsythe Kade Woods Stephen Still

Tulane Southeastern Louisiana Tech LSU LSU La. Tech LSU Dunham

Columbia (Royals) Tampa (Yankees) Fredericksb. (Nationals) Daytona (Reds) Tampa (Yankees) Augusta (Braves) Augusta (Braves) Frederick (Orioles)

21 10 24 4 11 26 24 15

16 7 0 4 11 5 0 13

84.1 41.1 29.1 6.2 43.0 49.1 26.1 61.0

2-3 2-2 1-1 0-0 1-5 2-3 2-3 2-6

0 0 2 0 0 2 0 0

65 37 31 5 25 36 33 53

31 21 15 2 19 23 21 32

49 13 26 1 25 43 25 31

121 38 38 9 53 52 26 77

3.31 4.57 4.60 2.7 3.98 4.20 7.14 4.72

1.35 1.21 1.94 0.90 1.16 1.60 2.20 1.38

Grifﬁn Herring LSU ACL Rockies 16 5 31.1 3-2 0 29 25 30 42 Note: For omissions and corrections to Louisiana Pros, please email the Advocate sports desk at sports@theadvocate.com

7.18

1.88

Double A

High A

Single A

Rookie

BOX SCORES Milwaukee 4, Atlanta 1

Toronto 4, N.Y. Yankees 3

Miami 4, Washington 2

Atlanta

Toronto

Washington Miami ab r h bi ab r h bi Lile dh 4 1 0 0 Edwards 2b 4 0 10 Crews rf 4 0 1 1 Conine 1b 3 1 00 House 3b 3 0 0 0 Caissie dh 3 1 10 Ortiz 1b 3 1 0 0 Ramírez ph-dh 1 0 0 0 Ford c 3 0 0 0 Lopez ss 4 0 12 Vivas ph 1 0 0 0 Marsee cf 4 1 21 Tena 2b 3 0 1 0 Hernández lf 3 1 1 1 Young cf 3 0 0 0 Mack c 3 0 10 Nuñez ss 3 0 0 0 Sanoja 3b 3 0 00 Pinckney lf 3 0 1 0 E.Ruiz rf 2 0 00 Totals 30 2 3 1 Totals 30 4 7 4 Washington 000 110 000 — 2 Miami 210 100 00x — 4 E—Lopez (19). DP—Washington 1, Miami 0. LOB—Washington 4, Miami 5. 2B— Crews (12), Caissie (14). HR—Hernández (19), Marsee (8). SB—Marsee (20). IP H R ER BB SO Washington Irvin L,2-8 6 6 4 4 2 4 Tolman 1 1 0 0 0 1 Bird 1 0 0 0 0 1 Miami Pérez W,7-9 5 3 2 1 3 4 Petersen H,22 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 Ekness H,1 1 ⁄3 2 ⁄3 0 0 0 0 0 Zuber H,8 Faucher S,2-7 1 0 0 0 0 0 HBP—Irvin (E.Ruiz). Pitch timer violations—Pérez (pitcher). Umpires—Home, D.J. Reyburn; First, Stu Scheuwater; Second, Steven Jaschinski; Third, Rob Drake. T—2:42. A—18,473 (37,446).

Milwaukee ab r h bi ab r h bi Baldwin c 2 1 0 0 Chourio lf 3 0 0 0 Acuña rf 4 0 0 0 Turang 2b 4 0 0 0 Olson 1b 4 0 1 0 Contreras c 4 1 2 1 Harris cf 4 0 2 1 Bauers rf-1b 3 1 1 2 Albies dh 4 0 2 0 Vaughn 1b 2 0 1 0 Dubón 2b 4 0 2 0 Mitch. pr-cf 1 0 1 0 Yastrzem. lf 3 0 0 0 Yelich dh 4 0 0 0 Thomas ph 1 0 0 0 Ortiz 3b 4 1 1 0 Riley 3b 3 0 0 0 Lara cf-rf 4 0 2 0 Jarvis ss 3 0 0 0 Pratt ss 2 1 0 1 Totals 32 1 7 1 Totals 31 4 8 4 Atlanta 100 000 000 — 1 Milwaukee 003 100 00x — 4 E—Pérez (1). DP—Atlanta 0, Milwaukee 2. LOB—Atlanta 7, Milwaukee 8. 2B—Harris (30), Ortiz (12), Contreras (19). HR—Bauers (23). SF—Pratt (5). S—Pratt (1). IP H R ER BB SO Atlanta Pérez L,8-8 4 4 4 1 3 2 Mederos 1 2 0 0 0 2 Suter 3 2 0 0 0 1 Milwaukee Hender. W,8-2 6 5 1 1 2 4 Patrick H,9 1 0 0 0 1 0 Hall H,5 1 0 0 0 0 2 Ashby S,2-8 1 2 0 0 0 0 ABS Challenge—Yastrzemski (StrikeOverturned to Ball); Henderson (BallConﬁrmed). Umpires—Home, John Tumpane; First, Adam Hamari; Second, Clint Vondrak; Third, Todd Tichenor. T—2:39. A—42,298 (41,700).

New York

ab r h bi ab r h bi Bateman rf-cf 3 0 2 0 Grisham cf 4 0 0 0 Guerrero 1b 5 1 2 0 Rice dh 3 1 0 0 Kirk c 4 1 1 0 Ramos lf 4 0 0 0 Springer dh 5 0 3 1 García 1b 3 1 1 2 Okamoto 3b 5 1 1 0 Jones rf 3 0 0 0 Clement ss 5 0 2 0 Lombard ss 3 1 0 0 Cameron lf 2 0 0 0 Chisholm 2b 4 0 2 0 Lukes ph-rf 3 1 2 2 Wells c 3 0 1 1 McAdoo 2b 4 0 1 1 Caballero 3b 3 0 0 0 Straw cf-lf 4 0 10 Totals 40 4 15 4 Totals 30 3 4 3 Toronto 100 110 010 — 4 New York 000 000 120 — 3 E—De los Santos (2), Lombard (3). DP— Toronto 1, New York 2. LOB—Toronto 12, New York 7. 2B—Okamoto (19), Straw (14), Clement (29), Chisholm (15). HR—Lukes (8), García (26). SB—Grisham (9), Jones (8), Chisholm (34). S—Bateman (1). IP H R ER BB SO Toronto 2 2 1 1 5 8 Cease W,8-5 6 ⁄3 1 ⁄3 0 0 0 0 0 Miles H,4 Rogers H,27 1 1 2 2 0 2 Varland S,29-30 1 1 0 0 0 2 New York 8 2 2 0 3 Weathers L,5-8 31⁄3 3 1 1 2 0 De los Santos 22⁄3 3 1 1 0 1 Hanner 12⁄3 1 0 0 0 2 Cruz 11⁄3 HBP—Miles (Caballero), Rogers (Rice). WP—Cruz. Umpires—Home, Dan Iassogna; First, Louie Krupa; Second, Jeremie Rehak; Third, Adam Beck. T—3:15. A—46,231 (47,309).

THIS DATE IN BASEBALL Aug. 23 1906 — On their way to the American League pennant, the Chicago White Sox beat the Washington Senators 4-1 for their 19th straight victory. 1931 — Lefty Grove of the Philadelphia Athletics was beaten 1-0 by Dick Coffman of the St. Louis Browns, snapping a personal 16-game winning streak. A misjudged fly ball by outfielder Jim Moore led to the winning run. 1936 — In his first major-league start, 17-year-old Bob Feller struck out 15 Browns as the Cleveland Indians beat St. Louis 4-1. Feller gave up six hits and allowed four walks. 1952 — During a game against the Cardinals at the Polo Grounds, the Giants’ Bob Elliott complained and kicked dirt arguing over a called strike. Umpire Augie Donatelli ejected him from the game. Bobby Hoffman finished the at-bat by being called out on strikes and was also ejected by Donatelli for arguing the call. 1982 — Seattle pitcher Gaylord Perry was

ejected in the seventh inning for allegedly throwing a spitball against the Red Sox. It was the first ejection for Perry, who was subsequently suspended for 10 days. 1989 — Rick Dempsey’s leadoff homer in the 22nd inning gave the Los Angeles Dodgers a 1-0 victory against the Montreal Expos in the second-longest shutout in major league history. 1992 — There were no hits in Clearwater’s 1-0 victory over Winter Haven in the Class A Florida State League. In what appeared to be the first professional game in 40 years without a hit, Andy Carter and the Clearwater Phillies beat Scott Bakkum and the Winter Haven Red Sox. The only run scored in the seventh inning on a pair of walks and a pair of sacrifice bunts. 1998 — Barry Bonds became the first player in major league history to hit 400 home runs and steal 400 bases when he homered off Florida’s Kirt Ojala in the second inning of San Francisco’s game at Florida. Bonds, who hit his 26th homer of the season, had 438 steals.

2001 — Randy Johnson struck out 16 in seven innings to become the first pitcher to strike out 300 in four straight seasons, only to see his eight-game winning streak end as Kevin Young’s two-run homer led the Pittsburgh Pirates to a 5-1 victory over Arizona. 2006 — The Kansas City Royals became the second team in major league history to have a 10-run first inning and not win the game. At Kauffman Stadium, the home team took a 10-1 lead, but were defeated by the Indians in 10 innings, 15-13. 2017 — Dodgers lefty Rich Hill lost his perfect game on an error in the ninth inning, then lost his no-hitter on a leadoff home run in the 10th by Josh Harrison that sent the Pittsburgh Pirates over Los Angeles 1-0. Jordy Mercer led off the ninth with a sharp grounder that smacked off third baseman Logan Forsythe’s glove for an error. Hill retired the next three batters. Hill returned for the 10th and Harrison sent his 99th pitch into the first row of seats in left field, just out of the reach of left fielder Curtis Granderson. Hill struck out 10 without a walk.

East Division Atlanta Philadelphia Miami Washington New York

W 75 72 66 61 58

L 55 58 64 70 71

Pct .577 .554 .508 .466 .450

GB — 3 9 14½ 16½

Milwaukee Chicago St. Louis Pittsburgh Cincinnati

W 81 74 66 63 61

L 49 56 65 68 68

Pct .623 .569 .504 .481 .473

GB — 7 15½ 18½ 19½

Los Angeles San Diego Arizona San Francisco Colorado

W 79 69 68 52 50

L 51 60 61 76 78

Pct .608 .535 .527 .406 .391

GB — 9½ 10½ 26 28

Central Division

West Division

Friday’s games

Milwaukee 2, Atlanta 1 Philadelphia 7, St. Louis 6, 10 innings Boston 6, San Francisco 4 Chicago White Sox 6, N.Y. Mets 4 Miami 3, Washington 2 Cleveland 9, Colorado 1 San Diego 6, Minnesota 2 Arizona 9, Cincinnati 0 Seattle 6, Chicago Cubs 5, 10 innings L.A. Dodgers 5, Pittsburgh 4, 10 innings

Saturday’s games

Toronto 4, N.Y. Yankees 3 L.A. Angels 3, Texas 0 Baltimore 3, Tampa Bay 2 Athletics 4, Houston 3 N.Y. Mets at Chicago White Sox, n Seattle 5, Chicago Cubs 4 Kansas City 3, Detroit 1 San Francisco at Boston, n Cleveland at Colorado, n Minnesota at San Diego, n

Milwaukee 4, Atlanta 1 Miami 4, Washington 2 Philadelphia 12, St. Louis 3 N.Y. Mets at Chicago White Sox, n Seattle 5, Chicago Cubs 4 L.A. Dodgers 5, Pittsburgh 3 San Francisco at Boston, n Cincinnati at Arizona, n Cleveland at Colorado, n Minnesota at San Diego, n

Sunday’s games

Tampa Bay (Martinez 12-4) at Baltimore (Baz 4-13), 12:35 p.m. Toronto (Soriano 10-6) at N.Y. Yankees (Rodón 4-2), 12:35 p.m. Athletics (Perkins 2-9) at Houston (Javier 1-4), 1:10 p.m. Detroit (Valdez 8-8) at Kansas City (Lynch 4-4), 1:10 p.m. N.Y. Mets (McLean 9-8) at Chicago White Sox (TBD), 1:10 p.m. L.A. Angels (Klassen 2-1) at Texas (Quantrill 5-4), 1:35 p.m. Cleveland (Grifﬁn 14-4) at Colorado (Sugano 12-6), 2:10 p.m. San Francisco (Wilkinson 0-0) at Boston (Bennett 7-6), 2:15 p.m. Chicago Cubs (Imanaga 8-9) at Seattle (Miller 4-7), 3:10 p.m. Minnesota (Ober 7-4) at San Diego (Buehler 7-6), 3:10 p.m.

Minor league pitchers Triple A

National League

Sunday’s games

St. Louis (Leahy 10-4) at Philadelphia (Sánchez 16-4), 12:35 p.m. Washington (Kent 0-1) at Miami (Junk 6-8), 12:40 p.m. N.Y. Mets (McLean 9-8) at Chicago White Sox (TBD), 1:10 p.m. Cleveland (Grifﬁn 14-4) at Colorado (Sugano 12-6), 2:10 p.m. San Francisco (Wilkinson 0-0) at Boston (Bennett 7-6), 2:15 p.m. Chicago Cubs (Imanaga 8-9) at Seattle (Miller 4-7), 3:10 p.m. Minnesota (Ober 7-4) at San Diego (Buehler 7-6), 3:10 p.m. Pittsburgh at L.A. Dodgers, 3:10 p.m. Cincinnati (Abbott 6-8) at Arizona, 3:15 p.m. Atlanta (Mahle 4-10) at Milwaukee, 6:10 p.m.

WILD CARD STANDINGS American League New York Boston Texas Toronto Cleveland Minnesota Baltimore Detroit Seattle

W 73 69 64 64 63 63 62 61 61

L 56 59 65 67 66 66 67 67 68

Pct .566 .539 .496 .489 .488 .488 .481 .477 .473

WCGB +9 +5½ — 1 1 1 2 2½ 3

National League Chicago Philadelphia San Diego Arizona Miami St. Louis Pittsburgh Cincinnati Washington

W 74 72 69 68 66 66 63 61 61

L 55 58 60 61 64 65 68 68 70

Pct .574 .554 .535 .527 .508 .504 .481 .473 .466

WCGB +5 +2½ — 1 3½ 4 7 8 9

Dodgers OF Tucker ﬁghting long slump BY BETH HARRIS AP sportswriter

LOS ANGELES — Kyle Tucker is searching at the plate, looking for anything to escape an offensive slump that has made the four-time All-Star outfielder a liability in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ chase for a third consecutive World Series championship. He took batting practice on the field Friday, ahead of going 0 for 4 with a walk in a 5-4 win in 10 innings over the Pittsburgh Pirates. Usually, Tucker hits in the indoor cage. “Just feel a good swing, try and find something that I can repeat with good ball flight, whether it’s hit the other way or pulled,” he said. “Just try to do something like that and carry it over to the game.” That didn’t happen Friday, but nevertheless fans cheered him as he came to the plate. “I loved hearing the support. I know he felt it. That’s what fans should do,” manager Dave Roberts said. “He’s grinding, he cares as much as anyone. He’s got to take these oh-fers home, so it’s good that the fans understand that.” Tucker’s average dropped to .230 with 11 home runs, 55 RBIs and an OPS of .689. His 92 strikeouts are close to surpassing his career high of 95, set with the Houston Astros in 2022. “I loved his at-bats tonight and that’s one of the things I’m going to make sure I do is encourage him,” Roberts said. “I thought he really competed, I thought he controlled the strike zone with some aggression and intent. That was really a positive all night long.” Tucker recently worked his way out of an 0-for-26 skid, going 3 for 9 with a double and an RBI in his last two games at Colorado. But over his previous 10 games, Tucker was batting a measly .108 with four hits, two RBIs and four runs. Defensively, Tucker got booed at home last weekend after he lost a shallow fly ball in right field, resulting in a two-base error against Milwaukee. At Colorado, he dropped another shallow fly. It’s all added up to a difficult debut with the Dodgers after he

AP PHOTO By DAVID ZALUBOWSKI

Los Angeles Dodgers’ Kyle Tucker singles off Colorado Rockies starting pitcher Kyle Freeland in the second inning of a game Wednesday in Denver.

signed a $240 million, four-year deal in January, raising expectations that Tucker would add another big bat to go along with former MVPs Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts. “Everyone here is super supportive of everything and everyone,” Tucker said before the game. “So, regardless of how I feel or whatever, I’ve got to go out and play and perform.” The soft-spoken, low-key Tucker paused a beat when considering the mental toll his slump is exacting. “It’s been a struggle in the sense that I’d like to help our team win and perform better for the guys in the clubhouse and the fans that come to the games,” he said. “In that aspect, I wish I would’ve done better this year.” Roberts can’t put his finger on specifics, but he feels Tucker has turned a corner. “Mentally and emotionally, I think that he’s freed up,” Roberts said before the game. “We’re in a fight and I think that he understands that there’s no other alternative but to keep going forward. I don’t know how to articulate it, but I just feel good about some of the things I’ve seen.” With 1 1/2 months to go, the Dodgers (78-51) are battling the Brewers (81-49) for the best record in the National League. “It’s not over yet,” Tucker said. “Just got to keep grinding every single day and just keep moving forward and just try to get better every single day. Just looking forward to finishing out the year strong.”

8C ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

lll

OUTDOORS CALENDAR SUNDAY

CLEAN OUT YOUR FREEZER DAY: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. in Acadiana area; 1-4 p.m., most of the 17 Louisiana sites and in Natchez, Mississippi. Collection of frozen game & ﬁsh for distribution by local food banks. A Hunters for the Hungry project. Website details: cleanoutyourfreezer.com

MONDAY

RED STICK FLY FISHERS FLY-TYING SESSION: 7 p.m., Bluebonnet Regional Library, 9200 Bluebonnet Blvd., Baton Rouge. Brad Dunne featured tyer. Open to the public. Materials and tools available for beginners. Website: www.rsff.org

MONDAY-THURSDAY

GULF COUNCIL MEETING: Golden Nugget, Biloxi, Mississippi. Public comment 2-5 p.m. Wednesday. Final action on electronic reporting rules for federal for-hire reef ﬁsh/ migratory pelagic permits; amendments offered for for-hire red snapper management. Website: gulfcouncil.org

TUESDAY STAFF FILE PHOTO By JOHN BALLANCE

Roux, a 4-year-old English setter, is on a point at Covey Rise near Husser during a quail hunt in a 2015 photo. Quail populations across the South are at all-time lows, with some blaming agricultural practices, fire ants invading nests, predators and forestry management.

Forgotten bird

Efforts underway to help revitalize declining quail populations BY JOE MACALUSO

with the full program beginning at 6 p.m. Sponsorships are available. For tickets and to reserve a place at the dinner table, email Guercio: ch3089@qfofﬁcers.org.

Contributing writer

Maybe you have to be old to remember what a bobwhite quail’s call sounds like — bob-WHITE. Nothing in nature makes something even approaching that melodious sound. Fact is, not many of us hear that call now. Quail populaNotebook tions across the South — except for some places in Texas — are at all-time lows. Some folks blame this disheartening decline on agricultural practices, others on ﬁre ants invading nests and killing chicks, predators and forestry management. While all of that matters, maybe the most pressing issue is habitat. Quails need heavy cover to survive. Native “bunch” grasses and cover surrounding agricultural ﬁelds have been shrinking for decades. Vast stretches of longleaf pine forests have fallen to the chain saw, and the U.S. Forestry Service folks working in our state’s Kisatchie National Forest came up with a program to re-establish longleaf, a species of tree best suited to provide quail habitat. Quail numbers are now increasing in the reforested areas. There’s more on state and local levels. And, this week, there is a resurgence of private efforts with the resurrection of the Atchafalaya Chapter of Quail Forever. This chapter’s initial four-year run ended with COVID-19, and earlier this year impetus came from those interested in restoring upland hunting to what it once was. Thursday’s banquet will tell more of their story. “Our first priority is to raise awareness about upland bird hunting and conservation of this species,” said newly installed chapter president Joseph Guercio. “The money

PROVIDED IMAGE

This specialized Louisiana license plate helps generate money for state Wildlife and Fisheries’ upland game biologists to use to re-establish bobwhite quail in suitable habitat across Louisiana. Programs are in place to increase quail populations on state and private lands with help from federal programs under the guidelines of the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

we raise will stay local in the state and augment the work by state biologists with their boots on the ground. “We know there’s a huge push to bring back quail.” State Wildlife and Fisheries upland game biologists work with landowners and on state wildlife management areas to restore quail populations in suitable habitat. They use dedicated federal funds and revenue generated through a “Bring Back the Bobwhite” prestige license plates. One push, though not widely known, is a move to dedicate a speciﬁc WMA for quail hunting, and private landowners along with the LDWF are working in the federal National Resources Conservation Service’s programs to restore quail habitat. “We wanted to bring back the banquet,” Guercio said. “We have a lot of great auction and raffle items and getting support from the Woodcock Society and national Quail Forever folks.” Thursday’s 5 p.m. banquet is set for The City Club in Baton Rouge

Hunters helping This is a special day across our state when hunters are given a chance to a) help a needy neighbor, and b) clean out the freezer in anticipation of filling it during the upcoming hunting season. It’s Hunter for the Hungry collection. You can find location and specific times on the H4H website: cleanoutyourfreezer.com One story from the first such event in the early 1990s came when a sweet elderly little lady driving a large sedan (the kind you don’t find on car lots these days) into the parking lot across from the original Alex Box Stadium. She opened the trunk to reveal five 48-quart Igloo ice chests and begged us to quickly empty the truck and the chests holding more than 200 pounds of frozen game. “Hurry. Hurry, please. I have to be home before my husband gets back,” she said running to an explanation. “He’s at the camp getting ready for another hunting season and I’ve told him for months to clear out the freezer from last season, but he never did, and I read about this in the newspaper, so here I am, and that’s what we have for you.” This slight woman could not have hefted a 40-pound ice chest into that trunk. As determined as she was, she had to have made countless trips from the freezer to car to fill those chests. The 12 of us, husbands and wives in that parking lot on a sunny September Sunday afternoon, wished we could have the video rights to the scene unfolding in this kindly woman’s home when her husband returned from the camp.

LA. CRAB TASK FORCE MEETING: 10 a.m., Terrebonne Parish Council Chambers, 8026 Main St., Houma.

THURSDAY

LA. OUTDOORS FOREVER PROJECT SELECTION BOARD MEETING: 9 a.m., state Wildlife & Fisheries headquarters, 2000 Quail Drive, Baton Rouge. ATCHAFALAYA REGION/QUAIL FOREVER BANQUET: 5 p.m., City Club, Baton Rouge. Supports quail habitat conservation. Sponsorships available. Email Joseph Guercio: ch3089@qfofﬁcers.org ACADIANA BUGS & BREWS: 6 p.m., Pack and Paddle, 601 E. Pinhook, Lafayette. Casual ﬂy-tying and local beers provided. Open to the public. Email Darin Lee: cbrsandcdc@gmail.com. Website: www.packpaddle.com

FRIDAY-SATURDAY

RIDE THE BULL XV: Bridgeside & Wakeside Marinas, Grand Isle. Kayak ﬁshing for redﬁsh in Caminada Pass. Registration/check-in 3 p.m. Friday. Fishing 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday. Registration website: FishingChaos.com. Rodeo website: ccalouisiana.com/ridethebull

ONGOING

STATEWIDE TOURNAMENT & ANGLERS RODEO/S.T.A.R.: Through Sept. 7, Coastal Conservation Association’s summer-long ﬁshing event. Tagged redﬁsh, coastal/ offshore species categories & youth division. CCA membership required. Website: ccalouisiana. com/star

RED SNAPPER SEASON TO REOPEN FOR FOUR DAYS Private recreational red snapper fishermen and state-permitted charterboat operations will have an Aug. 27-30 season to finish Louisiana’s 882,439-pound annual quota.The season was closed Aug. 9 for an assessment of this year’s estimated catch. This Thursday-Sunday opening comes after the state marine fisheries staff determined there was 4% of the quota remaining — 35,109 pounds — after the private recreational season opened May 1.A second opening is set to run Sept. 4-7 to cover the Labor Day weekend. If catches during those two periods exceed the annual quota, our state’s 2027 allotment will be cut by that overage.The season for federally permitted charter operation is closed. Joe Macaluso Sports Hunter License. Website: wlf.louisiana.gov/page/recreational-alligator-hunting WMA DEER/WATERFOWL YOUTHONLY HUNTS: Ages 10-17. Application deadline Aug. 31 for youth-only deer hunts; Sept. 30 for waterfowl hunts on Sherburne Wildlife Management Area. Application fee $8.50. See Wildlife & Fisheries lottery hunt webpage. Email David Hayden: dhayden@ wlf.la.gov

AROUND THE CORNER

SEPT. 3 — LA. WILDLIFE & FISHERIES COMMISSION MEETING: 9:30 a.m., Joe Herring Room, state Wildlife and Fisheries headquarters, Quail Drive, Baton Rouge. SEPT. 3 — NATIONAL DEER ASSOCIATION SUMMER SEMINAR: 6 p.m., state Wildlife & Fisheries headquarters, 2000 Quail Dr., Baton Rouge. NDA South Louisiana Branch event. State deer management, CWD update, habitat & deer survival. Preregistration requested. Email: Emily. boyd@louisianalandbank.com

FISHING/SHRIMPING

LOTTERY HUNTS

BLACK BEAR DECEMBER SEASON: Applicaiton period ends Aug. 28 for 42 tags in seven areas plus secretary tag to be auctioned. If drawn mandatory bear hunter training course attendance. Applications website: wlf.la.gov with $50 application fee. Email David Hayden: dhayden@wlf.la.gov RECREATIONAL ALLIGATOR SEASON: Entries accepted through Aug. 30 in eight “harvest” zones running Oct. 1-31. Nonrefundable $50 application fee for each zone. Must be legal Louisiana residents, 16 and older and have hunter education certiﬁcate. If drawn additional $25 Resident Alligator

SHRIMP: Fall inshore season open statewidecept for Breton/Chandeleur sounds; all outside waters open. OPEN RECREATIONAL SEASONS: Gray triggerfish; flounder; lane, blackfin, queen and silk snappers & wenchmen among other snapper species; all groupers except closed for goliath & Nassau groupers in state/federal waters. CLOSED SEASONS: Private recreational red snapper; recreational/ commercial greater amberjack (recreational season Sept. 1-Oct. 13); bluefin tuna; gag (Sept. 1-30 season), goliath & Nassau groupers in state/federal waters.

FISHING RESULTS Bassmaster Elite PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. — Final top five from the four-day Bassmaster Elite held on Lake Champlain with anglers, their hometowns, number of bass weighed in parentheses (5-bass daily limit), total weight in pounds and ounces and prize winnings. Also listed are Louisiana anglers, the big-bass & contingency winners. Only the top 50 in the 99-angler field moved to the third round, and only the top 10 advanced to the final round: Top 5: 1, Bryan Schmitt, Deale, Maryland (20) 81 pounds, 7 ounces, $100,000. 2, Chris

Johnston, Peterborough, Canada (20) 80-7, $20,000. 3, Seth Feider, Elko New Market, Minnesota (20) 79-12, $15,000. 4, Caleb Sumrall, New Iberia (20) 79-1, $12,500. 5, Drew Cook, Cairo, Georgia (20) 79-0, $11,250. Other Louisiana anglers: 37, Tyler Rivet, Raceland (15) 52-5, $5,500. 42, Greg Hackney, Gonzales (15) 51-10, $5,500. Phoenix Boats Big Bass: Sumrall, 6-10, $3,000. Rapala Crushcity Monster Bag: Sumrall, 24-4, $2,000.

Embracing his roots, Preece seeks last spot in playoffs By The Associated Press

LOUDON, N.H. — Amid the attention and pressure of racing for NASCAR Cup Series title stakes this weekend at New Hampshire Motor Speedway, Ryan Preece is hanging loose with his hometown crowd. The Roush Fenway Keselowski Racing driver is on bubble for makNASCAR the ing the field of 16 drivers who will compete in the Chase, the 10-race championship run that closes the season. With two races remaining in the regular season, Preece is ranked 50 points behind Shane van Gisbergen for the ﬁnal spot in the Chase. “We need a home run,” Preece said. “That’s the plan.” But he scoffs at the idea of walling off the outside world to focus solely on his No. 60 Ford. Preece instead has embraced the frenzy of racing around his roots as a

across the region (including Saturday’s Modified Series race at New Hampshire). Ryan Preece Motorsports has a crew full of locals with nicknames like “John the Plumber” who have been helping the driver since he was a teenager. “We have nicknames for each and every one of them,” said PreAP FILE PHOTO BU JEFF CHIU ece, 35. “It’s an opportunity to race with guys that I’ve known forever. With two races remaining in the They just enjoy racing and having regular season, Ryan Preece is some fun. I live for getting behind 50 points behind Shane van the wheel of a race car, not sitting Gisbergen for the final spot in for in a room analyzing what people the NASCAR playoffs. are going to do. Because if you race enough, you can predict what ä Dollar Tree 301. 1 P.M. SUNDAy, USA people are going to do. So I think it’s important to race more. I don’t rallying point for his last-ditch think it’s a distraction.” New Hampshire’s flat 1.058-mile charge at the Chase. The Berlin, Connecticut, native oval is a critical opportunity for has spent the week in New Eng- Preece, who finished 17th at Richland competing with his family- mond Raceway last week and fell owned team at minor league races 21 points further behind 16th in the

Chase standings. Ford drivers have been dominant recently at New Hampshire, leading 275 of 301 laps last year while taking three of the top four spots. Preece has 40 NASCAR starts at the track known as “The Magic Mile” vs. two NASCAR races at New Hampshire for van Gisbergen, who has only a few seasons of oval experience after a career of racing on road and street courses before entering NASCAR. “When I go to New Hampshire and the feel that I look for, that there are certain things I can do pretty well, where Shane is still trying to ﬁgure out,” Preece said. “There are things that Shane does phenomenally on road courses. We all have tendencies that we’re better at than others, but going into New Hampshire, I feel like being from New England, it’s my people. It’s a place that I’ve been racing at since I was 16 years old.”

His career highlight at New Hampshire was a Modiﬁed Series victory on a last-lap pass in 2021. “I’ve deﬁnitely had a lot of memories, and it would be nice to add one with a win in the Cup Series here,” Preece said.

Lobster tales After winning in September at New Hampshire, Ryan Blaney will receive his trophy on Sunday — a 20-pound lobster mounted on a plaque. Teammate Joey Logano said he started the tradition for the “Loudon the Lobster” trophy in 2009 when he scored the ﬁrst of his 39 Cup victories. “They were like: ‘What do you want to do with the lobster? We’ll just ship it to you,’” Logano said. “I was like: ‘Alive? Why don’t you just put it on a plaque?’ I’ve got a couple on the wall. It’s a good icebreaker when people come to your house and see a lobster on the wall.”

LOUISIANA INSPIRED: How three friends tur ned a conversation into a mission to ser ve their community 7D

LIVING

N O L A.C O M

S u n d ay, au g u S t 23, 2026

1dn

Jan Risher

Sailing from Louisiana to Morocco and all the places between I’m planning a trip to Morocco — by ship from New Orleans — for next year. I had thought arriving there would mark my 50th country. It will not. And still, I count countries. Yes, it will take a long time to get there. Yes, that is a statement about the journey being the thing — not the destination. Counting has been on my mind lately, as we prepare to move back into our house after the fire and figure out what survived. I started keeping track of states when I was a kid. My country list started in 1992 when I went to Mexico, my second country. Truth be told, I had never flown on a plane until August 1987, after I drove a U-Haul truck to move across the country to Reno, Nevada. The trip home for Christmas was not up for discussion.

STAFF PHOTOS By ENAN CHEDIAK

A variety of religious themes are hidden throughout the Chauvin Sculpture Garden in Chauvin.

Hurricane Ida left a bayou town’s enchanting sculpture garden in ruins. Here’s how it was saved. PROVIDED PHOTO

Jan Risher in 1993 in the main square of S’tara L’ubovna, Slovakia, having a snowball fight with local students who were learning English.

I remember my best friend and college roommate telling me, “Someone told me that the first time you take off in a plane, you can’t help but smile.” Whoever told her that was right — I smiled. For the next five years, the only place I flew was home — with the exception of my first business trip. In 1988, I flew from Reno to Los Angeles. I remember walking into my hotel near the airport and seeing a lot of really tall guys. Like, really tall guys. I eventually learned they were the Detroit Pistons who were playing the Lakers in the NBA Finals. For a 24-year-old from small-town Mississippi, the experience felt otherworldly. During the next decade, my world got considerably larger. I moved to Europe and visited 10 more countries. I went to all sorts of places in the Caribbean. I visited six countries in West Africa. Once you’ve been to a dozen or so countries, you have to start being pretty deliberate about where you’re going next. For years, I thought I was at 44 countries. Then I went to India and Nepal. Then Scotland. Then Türkiye and Greece. I had used an app called Been to count countries since right around the time apps started. My country count stood, I believed, at 49. For the joy of a round number, I’ve been excited about getting to my 50th. One day, I visited the app and it said I had not been to 49 countries.

ä See PLACES, page 9D

BY VIOLET BUCARO Staff writer

CHAUVIN — When Hurricane Ida’s 150 mph winds ripped through this small Cajun town ﬁve years ago, dozens of statues in the Chauvin Sculpture Garden toppled, cracked and broke apart. Some were beCHAUVIN headed, others lost SCULPTURE limbs. A year later, GARDEN shoulder-high in tall Open daily from grasses, three re8 a.m. to 5 p.m., tired art professors their 70s meanat 5337 Bayouside in dered through the Drive in Chauvin l garden, wide-eyed (985) 594-2546 at the devastation. The sculptures were on their way to decaying into the banks of Bayou Petit Caillou. “When we came out, we all three looked at each other and said, ‘This cannot get destroyed. We need to ﬁgure out a way to keep this,’” said Greg Elliot, a sculptor and former Nicholls State University professor. The narrow garden looked “beyond repair,” said Dennis Siporski, who was a professor of ceramic

Amanda Voisin, left, and Megan Champagne, upper right, look at an hourglass made of old Crystal Hot Sauce bottles with Eliza and Rylee, lower left to right, at the Chauvin Sculpture Garden.

arts at Southeastern Louisiana University. The sculptures — more than 100 of them — sprung up here more than 30 years ago on a patch of land near the water in Chauvin, a small ﬁshing community of 2,500 people

ä See GARDEN, page 8D

‘It’s just the idea of building community around shared passions and interests.’

K-pop fever is catching on in New Orleans Alyssa Pelotto holds up a photocard of Felix and Seungmin from the K-pop band Stray Kids during a K-pop photocard trading meet up at Tsaocaa in New Orleans on July 25. STAFF PHOTO By ENAN CHEDIAK

BY ALEX RAWLS Contributing writer

On a sweaty summer afternoon, a tea shop on South Carrollton Avenue was busy with people who share more than a love of bubble tea. A generally young crowd talked to each other about K-pop, the Korean pop music that predates the animated smash hit “K-Pop Demon Hunters” by more than a decade.

The cartoon movie introduced much of America to K-pop, but for longtime fans, it feels like the rest of the culture is catching up with them. And now fans across south Louisiana are ﬁnding each other through meetup events and concerts. K-pop is pure pop aimed at an international audience. It’s apolitical, stylish and fun. It’s the musical equivalent of a frisky

ä See K-POP, page 9D

2D ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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Take a trip back in time to Gulf Coast beaches before I-10 Back in the 1950s, Carol Walther had relatives who lived on a small strip of land in the Mississippi Sound called Deer Island. To visit her relatives, she and kin drove to a small grocery store on the edge of the Biloxi shore at East Beach Road and Oak Street. Their headlights would shine toward the island, where Errol two family boys Laborde would row over STREETCAR to pick them up. Visits were during daylight hours, never overnight, because there was no electricity. Deer Island is one of the many small land protrusions scattered along the Gulf Coast near Biloxi. Some are historic, such as Cat Island, where in 1699, Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville and his crew explored on the way to eventually founding what would become New Orleans. Having never seen raccoons, the French Canadians described the furry creatures on the island as being “cats” and the name stuck. Ship Island is the largest and has long been the destination for excursion boat trips carrying sun seekers and seashell collectors. Deer Island, a tiny 400-acre coastal preserve about 500 yards from the Biloxi shore, exists in solitude. It was populated mostly by ﬁshing guides, their families and eccentrics who shunned the bustle and bright lights of ﬁshing villages. Biloxi was mostly a quiet community so well-known for its oyster harvest that when the town got a minor league baseball team in 2015, it would be known as The Shuckers. Gradually, the lights onshore that guided island dwellers became brighter and more frequent. In 1870, the Louisville and Nashville Railroad had connected New Orleans with Mobile and beyond. U.S. 90 was built parallel to the track, and Gulf Coast tourism began booming. Into the 1960s, the age of postwar baby boomers and vehicles to put them in, U.S. 90 was the New Orleans area’s beach escape. Heading east along the Chef Menteur Highway, the scenery got noticeably better because of wetlands known as the Rigolets, then Lake Borgne, then the Mississippi Coast at Waveland. Billboards sprouted, like pine trees, along the route, including

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TOP and ABOVE: The pool area andd signage at the Broadwater Beach RIGHT: Actress Jayne Mansfield with restauranter Gus Stevens in the heyday of Broadwater Beach. signs for a restaurant in Biloxi called the Friendship House. It was there, as a preteen during a Sunday family ride to the Coast, where I ﬁrst experienced culinary greed. On the menu was a dish that seemed unbelievable in its bounty — a “seafood platter.” It delivered stashes of fried catﬁsh, oysters and shrimp plus a stuffed crab and fries piled high. Along the highway were two famous resorts: the Broadwater Beach and the Edgewater Beach Hotel, both with pools, restaurants, fancy people to watch, and access to the Gulf across the highway. These were the ultimate in respectable family getaways, as opposed to a certain roadside motel where some high school guys I knew stayed one night. Through the years, the Missis-

sippi Coast would emerge as a special sun-and-sand destination, particularly when the occasion was extra-special. A couple who were married in 1946 in the central Louisiana town of Bordelonville, near Alexandria, recalled their honeymoon journey to Biloxi.

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early in their marriage. e By the 1980s, several facttors were coming into play that would affect the economic fuw tture of the Gulf Coast, from the Louisiana border to the Florida L Panhandle: the emergence of P casino gambling; the completion c of Interstate 10 paralleling the o Coast, and the concept of the conC dominium. d Mississippi became the setting ffor casino gambling because tthe murkier waters closer to the Mississippi River couldn’t comM pete with the turquoise water p and white sands of Alabama and a Florida. F It wasn’t until I was in my adulthood that I even knew a Alabama had a stretch of Gulf A Coast. With the coming of the C interstate, the old beach towns had new marketing plans. Gulf h Shores, Orange Beach and PerS dido Beach promoted their colors d as gifted by nature. a Destin was a little-known Florida ﬁshing village until the newly completed I-10 started quickening the trip. A Florida beach highway, 30A, became a fantasy land of “new urban” architecture inspired by the creative houses at a place called Seaside. Along the highway, new towers stood like lighthouses. Condominium developments brought in new owners and new cash. One of the tallest towers along the coast is Biloxi’s Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, located right where an interstate exit deposits visitors onto U.S. 90. There are restaurants; a theater with Broadway-caliber shows, lots of gambling and jobs to go with them. There’s also a past: At 29 stories, the hotel is the tallest building in Mississippi. From the hotel rooms on the waterfront side, there is an expansive panorama of the Gulf with sailboats, freighters and shrimp boats in the background, and a sentinel of high-rises along the edges. Most impressive, though, is to look straight down, past the pool and toward the water where there is still a protrusion of land. Carol Walther and family members once stood there looking toward Biloxi. Now protected as a part of the Gulf Islands National Seashore, Deer Island is still part of the rhythm of the new Biloxi. And on a brightly lit ﬁeld across the highway, on summer nights, Shuckers are still at the plate.

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The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ 3D

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QUARTER SITES Nell Nolan PHOTOS By JEFF STROUT

Dennis Carlos, Becky Mackie, Maria Begonia Santos, Antonio Garcia Roger

SOCIETY Contact: nnolan@theadvocate.com

n The Glory of Galvez The Louisiana Museum Foundation requested the pleasure of one’s company at a Spanish Gala honoring Spanish Louisiana and Bernardo de Galvez, which celebrated the opening of the new Louisiana State Museum Exhibition titled “Galvez and Louisiana in the American Revolution.” It is being presented in commemoration of America 250 and will be on view through May. Decked out in formal attire inspired by 18th-century Spanish Colonial Louisiana, or black tie, invitees headed to The Cabildo for the fabulous festivity. Support came from the Louisiana State Museum, Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser (State of Louisiana) and Louisiana America 250. Bernardo de Galvez became the fourth governor of Spanish Louisiana at 31 years of age. He and his Crescent City-born spouse Marie-Felicite de Saint-Maxent had three children. In the Revolutionary War, his leadership achievements were significant. Under his command, British forces were defeated and driven from key positions along the Mississippi River and the Gulf Coast. Special features of the gala included Dennis Carlos‘ re-enactment of Galvez; multiple Spanish-influenced musical acts featuring Spanish guitarist John Lawrence; and the Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard. Also, the A.C. San Borondon Dancers from the Canary Islands; Chula, a Spanish rumba and Latin-infused music project under the auspices of Vivi del Rio and John Maestas; and a traditional flamenco performance featuring dancer Leticia “La Canela” Jimenez and musicians Pepele Mendez, Pedrito Segundo and

Kristin Shannon, Maria Isabel Page, Michael Henderson John Lawrence. Jungle Truck New Orleans designed the flowers and foliage that bedecked the tables, which were accented with red and gold linens, while Spanish, British and American flags were placed all around as a tribute to America 250. Culinary offerings included paella from the restaurant, Tableau by Dickie Brennan & Co.; traditional fideua, a pasta-style paella, by chef Xavier Laurentino of Barcelona Tapas; meat pies by chef Melissa Araujo of Alma Cafe; and gazpacho and ceviche from Lola’s restaurant. As for the libations, Galvez Rum sponsored, and offered, a rum tasting of their Founders Rum. More rum figured in the specialty cocktails featured at each bar, where cava, Albarino and other Spanish wines were available, as well. Guests moved about The Cabildo, enjoying the party attributes, the chance to

Diane Sustendal Labouisse, Steven Maklansky, Belinda Brown peruse the impressive exhibition, and networking. Quite a few of them from Spanish heritage and historical organizations appeared in dress of the period, ranging from military uniforms to embroidered gowns. In from Washington, D.C., was Antonio Garcia Roger, Counselor to Spanish Ambassador Angeles Moreno Bau. Further notables were President and CEO of Queen Soﬁa Spanish Institute Maria Begonia Santos; Consul General of Mexico Noemi Hernandez and daughter Valerie; Honorary Consul of Spain in Louisiana Maria Isabel Page; Honorary Consul of Uruguay Cesar Lurati and Veronica; “Galvez” exhibition curator Stephen Kling with Becky and daughter Shannon; and, with husband Albert, Frances Jane Henderson, a member of the New Orleans Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. An ancestor, Mathieu Devaux dit Platillo, served in the Spanish Louisiana

Stephen and Becky Kling militia under Galvez and fought in the 1799 Battle of Baton Rouge. Michael N. Henderson (also a descendant) and spouse Anita joined his parents at the gala. Noted, too, were Galvez Rum owner George Schaffer, LSM director Becky Mackie and Julio Guichard with Lt. Gov. Nungesser, and from LMF, director Kristin Shannon, board president Sonny Shields with Laura, and board member Diane Sustendal Labouisse. And state Rep. Mike Bayham, Louisiana America 250 Commission; Daniel Hammer, president and CEO of the Historic New Orleans Collection; Paul Bergeron and Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard; Billy Hyland from Los Islenos Heritage and Cultural Society, and Bob Freeland, Granaderos y Damas de Galvez Louisiana Chapter.

n Past, Present and Future The recent Spirit of the Vieux Carre Gala: “A Night Worth Preserving” occurred in Preservation Hall with “second-line ready — comfortable enough to dance, bold enough to be seen” as the dress code. During the patron party, Vieux Carre Commission PHOTOS By DENNIS NGUyEN Foundation founding president Darryl Berger Louellen Berger, Ben Jaffe, Darryl Berger was slated to present the Elizabeth T. Werlein Award to Preservation Hall and creative director Ben Jaffe in recognition of their thoughtful stewardship of one of the French Quarter’s most iconic historic properties. After the patrons assembled, many moseyed on to the two-hour gala in PH’s new space, Le Spectacle. The top sponsors were Jennifer and Rick Biesecker, Peggy and Timber Floyd, Louellen and Darryl Berger,Amanda and Ryan Berger, Goldring Family Foundation, The James P. Raymond Foundation, Mr. and Brian Block, Sydney Anderson, Kimberly Mrs. James Coleman, Lynette and Terry DuFrene, Rosenberg, Terry DuFrene Dathel and John Georges, James Douglas Hilsop, Richard Adkerson Family Foundation, and Kimberly and Harry Rosenberg. Also, Hancock Whitney, Hotel Monteleone, U.S. Copy, Inc., and a host of others. The above Kimberly W. Rosenberg presides over the VCCF board, Jessica Schulman is the executive director, and Anne Kenny and Maddie Charleston chaired the bash that had food and drink gaAnne Kenney, Maddie Karen Tipton, Taylor lore, signiﬁcant shoulder rubbing, and Charleston Beckman auction delights.

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Outside temperatures seemed to drop when guests en- Christine Bondio tered The Misi by Messina’s Catering on Decatur Street and saw an almost exclusively white palette. “Fete en Blanc” titled the soiree given by, and for, the French Quarter Business Association that thanked gala chairmen Shelley Pigeon (Pigeon Catering) and Meg Baird (NOLA DMC) for the décor, FQBA administrator Lodi Lafranca (with Tim) for the tables’ white ﬂoral arrangements, John Autin for entertainment, and Messina’s for catering. More than 70 items from the best hotels, restaurants, art galleries, and music/entertainment venues in and around the French Quarter made the bidding thrilling. A stay in the new Fairmont Hotel, due to open this fall, Donna Horowitz, Danielle Plauche-Shaw, elicited big bucks. Within the party scene were FQBA presiSheri Baker dent Steven Queyrouze and Anne, Stacey and George Messina of Messina’s Catering, Col. Robert Hodges of the Louisiana State Police, Christine Bondio of Dickie Brennan & Co., Taylor Stephens of Ericksen Krentel, Sheri Baker, Jessica Dietz, Donna Horowitz, Joe Pappalardo, Danielle Plauche-Shaw, Beth Sigur, Bridget and Tony Viloria, and Matt Reineke. John Autin’s rendering of “Here Comes the Sun” was enjoyed for the lightness of the music as guests hobnobbed in the cool comfort of the new venue on the fourth ﬂoor of Jax Brewery. To add another “thrill chill,” New Orleans Snowballs purveyed their coveted cones.

4D ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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TRAVEL Historical Dallas neighborhood full of charm Trip also includes side of Sarah McLachlan BY JOY HOLDEN Staff writer

In the 1990s, I was a teenager singing my heart out to Sarah McLachlan with my friends in our cars. I wanted to go to Lilith Fair so badly, but I never got the chance. McLachlan was a consistent soundtrack for me all through college and early adulthood. In May, I watched “Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery,” the documentary about McLachlan’s woman-led music festival in the 1990s, and I turned into that teenage girl once again. The next few days, all I listened to was McLachlan’s comforting sounds. So, on a whim, I looked up her tour dates. The closest she would get to me this summer was Dallas, Texas. My college roommate from Baylor lives in Dallas, so I texted her: “I am coming to stay with you, and we are going to see Sarah McLachlan together.” She was on board. The concert was in two months. At the end of July, I drove from Baton Rouge to Dallas on a Saturday morning. My drive clocked in at around six and a half hours. I knew I was in Texas the minute I started seeing huge Texas ﬂags everywhere. When I arrived, I entered a neighborhood full of historic prairie-style homes. I often associate Dallas with glitz and ﬂashiness, but this pristine block of early 1900s homes and leafy trees contrasted with my previous notions of the city.

The Texas Watermelon and Tomato Salad from Garden Cafe in Dallas PROVIDED PHOTOS ordered one of Garden Cafe’s famous biscuits and jam. The biscuit was light and ﬂuffy, with nice layers. The house-made strawberry jam was the perfect stay, two historic boutique hotels accent to the breakfast staple. are The Joule, and The Magnolia. After some rest time and backBoth hotels were constructed in yard pool ﬂoating, it was concert the late 1920s. time. On Sunday, we walked to We drove from East Dallas Junius Heights, an adjacent to Irving, which was about a historical craftsman and Tudor 20-minute drive. neighborhood, to have brunch McLachlan’s show was at The at Garden Cafe. The cafe has a Pavilion at the Toyota Music Facreputation for its fresh-grown in- tory, an entertainment complex with restaurants and multiple gredients and high-quality fare. Out back is a lovely patio and the venues. The Toyota Music Factory restaurant’s garden, perfect for a opened in 2017 but just understroll after the meal. I ordered a special summer went a grand renovation and salad — the Texas watermelon reopened in December 2024. The and tomato salad — which was entertainment area includes 20 bright and refreshing. The salad restaurants and bars near the included watermelon, cherry toconcert space. For dinner, we chose the Yard mato, red onion, cucumber, feta and mint vinaigrette. The sweet- House, which served quality ness, the acidity and the saltiness food in a lively environment. The combined to create quite a Texas- Yard House has over 100 dishes made from scratch daily, handsized celebration for my palate. For a taste of brunch, I also crafted cocktails and a massive

Munger Place, a neighborhood located in Dallas, is full of prairie-style craftsman houses built in the early 1900s. Munger Place is located in East Dallas, which has historic architecture and cute places to shop and eat — a more understated Dallas, which is my style. Founded in 1905, Munger Place was and still is Texas’ largest prairie-style home community. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the neighborhood was planned with paved roads, electric streetlights and sidewalks. Staying there for the weekend was like stepping back in time. The homes have expansive porches and exquisite craftsman detail. The area is ideal for walking with friends and looking at houses. Although I was staying with my friend in her restored home, there are short-term rentals available in the area on Airbnb. For other options on where to

selection of draft beer with 130 taps. I ordered the grilled chicken and avocado sandwich, which included Swiss cheese, roasted tomatoes, arugula and lemon basil aioli on a toasted brioche bun served with house fries. The portions were large, and the flavors were even bigger. It fueled me up for the concert. After the meal, we walked to The Pavilion, which holds more than 8,000 spectators and has walls that can retract to create an open-air space with additional seating for 4,000 people. The Pavilion was sold out that night with the walls up as Dallas was in the middle of a heat wave. The lobby space is wide and roomy with many vendors, but what stood out the most to me were the refillable water stations. Concert-goers can bring their own water bottles and fill them for free. During the concert, the acoustics of the venue were sublime. McLachlan sounded amazing, and her band was fantastic. There’s not a bad seat in The Pavilion because of a shallow incline and close proximity to the stage. After the McLachlan concert, our roommate reunion was almost complete. I was sent off on Monday morning with a homemade breakfast sandwich and cardamom chai, and on cloud nine the entire drive home. The weekend in Dallas surprised me in more ways than one, and I left with a greater affection for the city and a greater appreciation for friendship. Email Joy Holden at joy.holden@ theadvocate.com.

TRAVEL TROUBLESHOOTER By Christopher Elliott

Rental’s bald tires blew out, and damage fees are charged I recently rented a Mercedes SUV through Turo for a friend’s birthday trip to New Hampshire.While driving in the mountains at about 40 mph, the front right tire blew out. I called Turo immediately.A representative told me I could use their tow service for $199. Since I have been a AAA member since I was 16, it made no sense to pay extra Christopher for a tow, so I used AAA instead. Elliott AAA towed the vehicle to our vacation rental. The tow driver asked us to look underneath the vehicle. Both front tires were so worn that the metal threading was visible and protruding.The vehicle was unroadworthy. I had to pay $680 to tow the Mercedes back to Connecticut and $1,000 for a car service to transport my group home. I reported this to Turo.At first, the company said the damage was due to preexisting wear and that I was not responsible.About

one hour later, I received a second email stating that the claim had been reopened and that I was financially responsible. Turo charged my card $500 in damage fees. I’m out more than $2,000 for renting a car with bald tires. Can you help me get my money back? — Brent Marcelino, New Britain, Conn. Your Turo host should have given you a vehicle with safe tires. And if the tires were bald, you shouldn’t have to pay a dime for the blowout. But this case is a little complicated. Let’s look at what happened. You rented a 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class. You assumed the car was safe. But when the tire blew, you discovered the truth. You did the right thing by contacting Turo immediately. But then things went a little sideways. Turo initially agreed with you. It sent you an email conﬁrming that it had determined the damage

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Turo returned your $500 damage deposit and refunded the $304 cost of your rental. But it did not cover the towing or car service expenses, sticking to its policy on roadside assistance. I’m glad you got some of your money back. But there is a lesson here for everyone: Before you drive a rental car off the lot, check the tires. Turn the wheel so you can see the tread. If it looks worn, ask for a different car. And consider paying a little extra for roadside assistance. It might cost a little more up front, but it can save you a small fortune in the long run.

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by its rules. “Guests have the option to purchase enhanced roadside assistance when booking their trip to reduce out-of-pocket costs like towing,” a Turo spokesperson told me. Still, charging you a $500 deductible for a tire that was clearly worn out seems wrong. You might have appealed this to an executive at Turo. I publish the names, numbers and email addresses of key customer service managers at Turo on my advocacy site, Elliott.org. I contacted Turo on your behalf. I shared your photos of the bald tires. Turo reviewed your ﬁle again. “After reviewing all available information related to this incident, we can conﬁrm the guest was fully refunded for the trip and any related damage charges,” the spokesperson said.

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was “preexisting” and that you weren’t responsible. Then, Turo’s claims department did a U-turn. An hour later, it told you the claim was reopened. Turo’s position was that while you weren’t “at fault,” you were still “ﬁnancially responsible.” How can you be responsible for damage you didn’t cause on a car that shouldn’t have been on the road? Turo says it reviewed the pretrip photos and decided the tire was in “good condition.” But standard walk-around photos don’t always show the inner tread wear. You were also stuck with a $1,680 bill for towing and a car service because you declined Turo’s roadside assistance. When you go off-platform for repairs or towing, you usually pay out of pocket. Turo’s terms are clear about that. If you want the company to pay, you have to play

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The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ 5D

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HOLLYWOOD SOUTH Filmmaker’s mythical character unveiled at the Zeitgeist If necessity is the mother of invention, then writer/director Scott Fivelson’s need for a new documentary subject has led him into both fantastical and historical territory. Fivelson (“American Reel,” “3 Holes and a Smoking Gun”) wanted to do a documentary about a famous director, but discovered most of them had already been profiled on film. So, he Leslie invented one. Cardé His new “star” arrives in the persona of Oskar Knight in “Near Myth: The Oskar Knight Story.” Fivelson’s main character is ensconced in the Hollywood of yesteryear, rubbing elbows with Tinseltown luminaries like Gary Cooper, Errol Flynn and Orson Welles, to name a few. The premise of shooting a fictional documentary (like in the popular TV show “The Office”) may leave viewers a little confused. I thought I was screening a documentary for the first 20 minutes of the movie, until I just couldn’t reconcile why I was familiar with every other actor and director in the film except for Oskar Knight. “The film is actually completely fictitious, so I understand some of the confusion,” Fivelson said. “I’ve actually had a few people who told me they saw the movie and thought it was really funny and historical, but when trying to look this director up online, couldn’t find him.” But whether Oskar Knight is real or not, he serves as a springboard to get the audience from one great Hollywood story to another. Just the references to famous films like “The Lost Weekend” or “Ben Hur” and the stories behind them are enough to keep any film buff or film lover entertained. It was originally slated to be released in 2020 when the pandemic hit, but by 2023, Fivelson and producing partner David Polcino took a fresh look at the film, re-edited it, and set about getting a distributor. It’s certainly not a typical plotline, but knowing Oskar Knight is a figment of the

PROVIDED IMAGES By SCOTT FIVELSON

Oskar Knight laughs with Hollywood icon Gary Cooper in Scott Fivelson’s ‘Near Myth: The Oskar Knight Story.’

Oskar Knight drinks with Errol Flynn

PROVIDED PHOTO By SCOTT FIVELSON

Scott Fivelson

writer’s imagination could change perceptions. Needless to say, the actors hired to play those interviewed about the life of Oskar Knight were in on the joke and were extremely convincing. They include an ar-

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ray of Hollywood actors from across the decades, who are commenting on the Oscar award (the golden statuette) that has proven to be elusive for Oskar Knight. He has become obsessed with winning Hollywood’s top prize but continually ﬁnds himself the nominee who never gets over the ﬁnish line. The cavalcade of diverse interviewees includes Oscar awardwinner Margaret O’Brien (“Meet Me in St. Louis”), Emmy winner

David Suchet (“A Perfect Murder”), Joaquim de Almeida (“Fast Five”), and even Jon Provost (who played the original Timmy on the TV show, “Lassie,” which began airing in 1954). The movie has been described by critics as sandwiched somewhere between “This Is Spinal Tap” and “Sunset Boulevard,” saying the unique biopic is the story of one of the greatest Hollywood directors you’ve never heard of.

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The pretense is so convincing that when actor Rudolf Martin, who was in “Swordfish” with John Travolta, begins to describe his trip in Travolta’s private plane to search for Oskar Knight’s ancestral home in Germany, you’re questioning once again if there’s not some validity to what’s on screen. The title character is played by actor Lenny Von Dohlen (“Twin Peaks, Tender Mercies”) who seems tailor-made for the role. Fivelson had no prior association with him but really admired his work. “He was in an adaptation of an F. Scott Fitzgerald story called ‘Under the Biltmore Clock’ and he was great,” Fivelson recalled. “I mean, he was just a really good match for period things, even when he was very young, like in the films ‘Jennifer 8’ and ‘Tender Mercies,’ or ‘Electric Dreams.’” Fivelson’s film is touring in cities around the country in a limited release. The Zeitgeist Theatre was chosen because he has an artistic connection to New Orleans. As a professional songwriter, he’s had two songs covered by different Louisiana artists and feels a kinship with the city ever since his parents took him as a boy to Preservation Hall. Fivelson has two new projects on the horizon, “The Vicar’s Wife,” a British romantic comedy/ mystery, as he describes it, and “Epitaph,” a contemporary crime thriller. Plans are for both films to be shot in Northern Ireland next year. That location will stand in for small towns in England. As Fivelson tells it, the incentives in Ireland are extraordinary. Northern Ireland works on the grant, and then the filmmaker is also entitled to the United Kingdom tax credit. It’s a plan many in this country are calling for — a nationalized tax credit. “Near Myth: The Oskar Knight Story” is coming to the Zeitgeist Theatre and Lounge in Arabi and plays from Aug. 28 through Sept. 3. The film is also playing on Amazon Prime for a rental fee. Contact Leslie Cardé at lesliecardejournalist@gmail. com.

6D ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

ä For area book events, go to

WWW.NOLA.COM/ENTERTAINMENT_LIFE/ BOOKS

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BOOKS

Enjoy home reading with these 6 Louisiana children’s books

BY JOY HOLDEN Staff writer

School is back in session. With the return of early mornings comes the return of home reading time mandated by teachers. To help with book selection for home reading time, here are a few local books for children under the age of 10. “Boudin Boy Meets Cracklin’ Dog,” written and illustrated by Paul Schexnayder This bayou-based book picks up where “The Adventures of Boudin Boy” left off and tells the story of how Boudin Boy met his bayou buddy, Cracklin’ Dog. When Boudin Boy hears a cry for help, he runs “fast-fast at full blast” to rescue a tiny pup with a strong, quick kick. Using his swamp know-how and courage, Boudin Boy and his new friend Cracklin’ Dog outwit dangerous, wild hogs. Full of swampy illustrations, rhyme and alliteration, “Boudin Boy Meets Cracklin’ Dog” is a Louisiana celebration worthy of reading time. “Good Day, Louisiana Children’s Museum,” written by Shannon Kelley Atwater This board book takes you through a day of fun at the Louisiana Children’s

Museum in New Orleans. Follow along as the children in the book pretend to be a turtle, chef, veterinarian, boat captain and more. The illustrations featured throughout the book were created with help from museum guests. Each page includes drawings and color additions from real kids and their caregivers. “A Sprinkle of Library Fun: Let’s Get a Cookbook,” written by Stacey L. Dempsey and illustrated by Lexi Renard In this educational and interactive book, Amy and her pup, Charlee, go on an adventurous walk to the nearby library in search of a cookbook. This book encourages young readers to use their manners, share, exercise and accomplish a goal. It also introduces them to things they may see outside and at the library. For added fun, readers get to search for Charlee as he hides throughout the book. “Sweet Dreams: Poems and Paintings for the Child Abed,” written by Rick Telander and illustrated by his artist friends This anthology of bedtime poems is an easy-to-read collection in the fashion of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic, “A Child’s Garden of Verses.”

Started when the author was sick in bed many years ago, this book is about caring for young boys and girls who must spend time in bed recovering. The 42 illustrations are unique for each poem and were created by Telander’s friends from four different countries. “Where Do Beignets Come From?” written by Erin Rovin and illustrated by Madi Hannan Another board book to cuddle up and read with the kids, “Where Do Beignets Come From?” creates a story of a coffee couple using love and ingredients to make their beignet children. The book is full of bright and colorful illustrations as the reader follows along with the recipe. A nice rhyme scheme gives a musical ﬂow to the reading. “Where Y’at, Jockamo?” written and illustrated by Madi Hannan In this colorful tale, Jockamo the puppy is on a journey to ﬁnd the best festivals in the state. The Australian Shepherd frolics from gumbo cook-offs to festival parades for his quest. Hannan is also the author of “Scrim on the Run” and “The Little Lost Alligator.” Email Joy Holden at joy.holden@ theadvocate.com.

Danny Heitman

Seeds of reading program will help students continue to grow Among the reading items on my nightstand this summer was The Atlantic magazine’s recent cover story, glumly titled, “The Age of Reading Is Over.” In a long article, staff writer Rose Horwitch cited a number of sobering statistics, including the news that only 2% of Americans read to a child on a given day. Obviously, the country has much to do in expanding its circle of readers, especially the young ones who can carry a culture of books into the next generation. That cause involves special urgency in Louisiana, which has historically ranked near the bottom for literacy. Luckily, this summer brought happier tidings about the future of reading. I work across the street from a public library, and in this vacation season as in others, I saw the parking lot swell with visitors. Many of the patrons were youngsters attending Louisiana’s summer statewide reading program. The theme of this year’s program, “Plant a seed, read!” was an apt reminder that engagement with books outside of school can be the start of something that continues to grow even after children return to school. It’s an encouraging thing to consider now that another school year has begun. Participation numbers across Louisiana for this year’s summer reading program are still being tabulated. But according to the State Library of Louisiana, which helps coordinate and support each year’s summer reading program in parish libraries, more than 430,000 children and teens attended summer reading programs at Louisiana’s local libraries last year. Public libraries hosted more than 11,000 different events and sessions statewide during the summer reading program in 2025. “Summer reading programs give libraries a structured way to fulﬁll their most essential purpose: connecting people with books and building the habit of reading,” State Librarian Meg Placke pointed out. Summer reading programs were a happy part of my Louisiana childhood when I was growing up, and I missed them when I got too big to participate. In recent years, though, many local library systems, including my own, have offered companion summer reading programs for adults. It’s a nice way to extend the fun — and a good reminder that if grown-ups want more children to read, we should model how it’s done. I tackled three books for this year’s program, starting with “A House in Flanders,” a charming memoir by Michael Jenkins about an eventful summer he spent at an old estate in Belgium. I followed with “Lark Rise,” the Flora Thompson novel inspired by her childhood in rural England. July ended for me with “Ordinary People,” Judith Guest’s novel about a family’s struggles to recover from a life-changing tragedy. What did I get for being a three-book reader this summer? A staff librarian gifted me with a new book bag, a pocket journal and, in a nod to this year’s theme, some seeds for my garden. The biggest reward? The reading itself, which no summer should be without. Email Danny Heitman at danny@dannyheitman.com.

THIS WEEK’S BESTSELLERS FROM PUBLISHERS WEEKLY HARDCOVER FICTION

1. “The Calamity Club” by Kathryn Stockett 2. “The Unknown” by Riley Sager 3. “Yesteryear” by Caro Claire Burke 4. “Whistler” by Ann Patchett 5. “The Lion & the Deathless Dark” by Carissa Broadbent 6. “Daggermouth” by H.M. Wolfe 7. “You’ll Be Sorry” by Lisa Gardner 8. “A Trade of Blood” by Robert Jackson Bennett 9. “The Amateur” by Chris Bohjalian 10. “The Country Road Murders” by Patterson/Lupica

HARDCOVER NONFICTION

1. “Regime Change” by Haberman/ Swan 2. “Welcome to Your Life” by Roland Orzabal 3. “Your Fellow Americans” by Peter Santenello 4. “You Can Do Beautiful Things” by Galey Alix 5. “How Lucky Am I” by Christian Watson 6. “Strangers” by Belle Burden 7. “Biological War” by Annie Jacobsen 8. “More, Please!” by Rachel Mansﬁeld 9. “London Falling” by Patrick Radden Keefe 10. “The Life-Changing Art of Self-Brain Surgery” by W. Lee Warren

TRADE PAPERBACK

1. “Adversary to the Villain” by Hannah Nicole Maehrer 2. “Theo of Golden” by Allen Levi 3. “Dungeon Crawler Carl” by Matt Dinniman 4. “Carl’s Doomsday Scenario” by Matt Dinniman 5. “Just for the Plot” by Meghan Quinn 6. “Death Row” by Freida McFadden 7. “The Divorce” by Freida McFadden 8. “The Widow” by John Grisham 9. “Kagurabachi, Vol. 8” by Takeru Hokazono 10. “Murdoku” by Manuel Garand

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ 7D

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LOUISIANA INSPIRED

Friends turn conversation into mission to uplift others Tournament raises awareness, brings community together

BY BRIANNA MEEKS

Contributing writer

The squeaks of sneakers echoed across the basketball court at Team Sportsplex in Baton Rouge on a recent Saturday as players took to the floor for “Hoops For A Cause,” a threeon-three charity basketball tournament. Basketball fans filtered in, paid the $10 admission fee and grabbed their Sour Punch candy from the concession stand before finding seats near the court. Teams came from all over the city to compete, but the purpose of the event was bigger than a win on the court. Baton Rouge residents Kirklan Parms, 21, Justin Collins, 22, and Erick Hitchens, 20, planned the tournament to unite the community, raise awareness about social issues, and donate to a charitable cause. The tournament was one of several community initiatives hosted by Built from Stone, an organization they founded. The men say they came together at a time when each was looking for a higher purpose. “We were each other’s help,” said Parms, who plans to attend Louisiana State University. A troupe dressed in black uniforms cheered on the players, while children joined in with their hands in the air and smiles on their faces. The group, Baton Rouge Hotties, made up of women ages 18 to 24, was created by Kaitlyn Gleason to bring the women together to dance and have a positive impact on the community. “People are not just doing the worst in Baton Rouge,” Gleason said. “There are good people like myself and the person that put this event together.” Organizers said they hoped to raise awareness as much as money. Proceeds from “Hoops For A Cause” were donated toward the legal defense of Karmelo Anthony, the African American teenager sentenced to 35 years in prison for stabbing a White teenager to death during an altercation at a school track meet in Texas. Anthony’s legal team has claimed the stabbing was in self-defense and that the stiff sentence was motivated by race. The family of the victim, Austin Metcalf, has denied those claims. Each team in the Hoops tournament was named after an individual whom organiz-

PROVIDED PHOTO

From left, Justin Collins, Kirklan Parms and Erick Hitchens are the organizers of ‘Hoops For A Cause,’ a three-on-three basketball tournament to raise money for charitable purposes. The tournament is among the community programs sponsored by Built From Stone, an umbrella organization the three men created to support the community.

jail. But for them to overcome it and come out of that situation and be like, ‘I’m better than that. I’m more than that. I have more to give.’ I love it,” said Johnson. Parms grew up in Scotland Square projects in Scotlandville, where his family could afford to pay rent. Even then, he was taught to look beyond his circumstances and believe he could accomplish what he set out to do. The foundation of Built from Stone began long before the organization had a name. Sitting side-by-side beneath the stairway at the LSU Student Union, the three founders laughed, looked at one another and occasionally paused to let someone else ﬁnish a memory before explaining how it all began. Parms and Collins met through mutual friends while they were in high school, but one conversation became a defining moment in their friendship. Collins recalled a time of uncertainty in his life, when he returned from Arkansas State University, where he had played Di‘I have more to give’ vision I football. After suffering a shoulder “To see him as a grown man and the things injury, he transferred to LSU. Parms encouraged Collins to trust what that he’s involved with now, I’m just so proud,” she said. “They could have been in God had in store for him and keep his head

ers say suffered from systemic injustice. But the event was more than a series of basketball games. Young men who needed professional attire for a job interview or new job also had access to free clothing through Threads to Thrive, a service project founded by Southern University student Elise Doomes. Individuals were also able to register to vote and get help with college applications and scholarships. “No matter if you came for the basketball, the cheering, the food or the clothes, you came for a reason and that’s because of what’s going on in the world right now,” said Corey Scott, a construction management student at LSU. Sitting on the bleachers watching the game, Parms’ mother, Danielle Johnson, recalled a time when her son was in elementary school and how everyone wanted to be in his presence. He was born with a birthmark on his face, and she told him he was special.

up. Collins said the conversation stayed with him. In the fall of 2025, another friendship began. Collins met Erick Hitchens while the two worked together at Zara clothing store in Baton Rouge. What started with Collins complimenting Hitchens’ army green GShock watch quickly turned into hours the men spent joking and exchanging ideas in Collins’ living room. Those conversations would eventually become the foundation of Built from Stone. They shared a common goal — creating opportunities for young people and encouraging them to dream beyond the expectations placed on them. “You don’t meet a lot of people with the same mindset,” said Parms. From there, their first project was to give back to St. Vincent de Paul, a nonprofit organization that provides food services and shelter in Baton Rouge. They passed out 40 boxes of pizza in October 2025. Growing up in the Glen Oaks neighborhood in Baton Rouge, Hitchens said his experiences inspired him to pursue a career in law and eventually create a space to speak up about issues in society; he is now majoring in political science at LSU. “I’m always inserting myself in rooms that may not look like I have a seat … but I’m gonna make my own seat,” he said. Collins’ mission was shaped by his own journey through football. After injuries changed the direction of his athletic ambitions, he said he wants young people to know success isn’t limited to sports. “Football was something that originally put eyes on me. Now, I use it to show young people that’s not the only route they have,” Collins said. Inspired by the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., Parms hopes to one day become mayor of Baton Rouge. He believes leadership begins with serving others. Growing up in Scotland Square fueled his passion for activism and community outreach, values he said remain at the core of Built from Stone. “I feel like stone is the strongest thing you can come across … from a solid core, unity, just the whole concept of being together,” Parms said. Meeks is a journalism student at Southern University. This story was reported and written with the support of the nonprofit Louisiana Collegiate News Collaborative, an LSU-led coalition of eight universities funded by the Henry Luce and John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur foundations.

Powering Progress A New Home for Discovery, Research and Collaboration at LSU

Shell Research Laboratories

Pictured L to R: Rob Stuart, LSU Real Estate and Facilities Foundation President & CEO; Wade Rousse, LSU President; Rochelle Touchard, Shell, Corporate Relations Regional Lead; Colette Hirstius, Shell USA, President; Lee Stockwell, Shell, General Manager, Carbon Capture and Storage North America; Krista Raney, LSU Foundation President & CEO; Robb Brumﬁeld, LSU College of Science Interim Dean

“The opening of the LSU Our Lady of the Lake Health Interdisciplinary Science Building is a testament to the power of partnership and what can be achieved when industry and academia come together around a shared vision.

Shell USA, Inc. committed $2.5 million to the Our Lady of the Lake Health Interdisciplinary Science Building as part of a $27.5 million investment in energy-related initiatives at LSU. Shell Research Laboratories offers advanced research environments to enable faculty and students to work together on complex, real world challenges.

We are proud to support a space where students, faculty and industry can collaborate to drive discovery, explore new frontiers and develop the next generation of scientists, engineers and energy leaders.” – Colette Hirstius, President, Shell USA

shell.us/louisiana | #PoweringProgress

8D ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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STAFF PHOTO By ENAN CHEDIAK

Gary LaFleur points to an old photograph of Kenny Hill, the creator of the Chauvin Sculpture Garden.

GARDEN

Continued from page 1D in Terrebonne Parish about 20 miles southeast of Houma. The garden appears like a maze from a surreal Acadiana adventure movie or twisted fairy tale, populated by bizarre, lean figures: wide-winged angels, Jesus, musicians. Cowboys and Native Americans clinging to a 45-foot-tall lighthouse tower made of some 7,000 stacked bricks. Life-sized self-depictions of its creator, Kenny Hill, appear around every turn, in what seems to be his own version of a Nativity scene. To the right of the entrance, a blonde-headed, eyeless sculpture of Hill holds his own bleeding heart in the hands of his long arms. At his feet, a misspelled quote reads: “IT IS EMTY.” “He didn’t explain things a lot,” said Gary LaFleur, a bayou studies professor at Nicholls State University who heads Friends of Chauvin, the garden’s advisory board. “But it ends up being a blessing,” he said. “Everybody can take a different type of meaning from their visit.” The real-life Hill is from Springfield, in Livingston Parish. He abandoned the garden in 2000. Though his whereabouts are unknown, locals believe he is still alive. Among those who have worked to preserve it — and the academics who study folk art — Hill’s work is a prime example of “outsider art,” a style that is self-taught and often driven by the artist’s inner visions. After Hill left, Siporski contacted the Kohler Foundation, a Wisconsin-based nonprofit that focuses on art restoration. (And yes, with roots in Kohler Co., maker of plumbing fixtures.) The arts foundation soon purchased the abandoned lot and restored it into a public park within two years. It was its first large-scale preservation project outside of Wisconsin. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers helped reconstruct the site. Hill’s homemade house, which was ready to fall into the bayou, was demolished. The waterfront bulkhead was stabilized. Overgrown grass and banana trees were cleared, and a permanent gallery was built across the street. The garden was gifted by Kohler to Nicholls State, which has continued to preserve the site since 2002. The preservation project was not for money or recognition, said Terri Yoho, director of the Ruth Foundation of the Arts. It was inspired by the “inner gratification” that the late billionaire philanthropist Ruth DeYoung Kohler II found in supporting the arts and education, often projects that are unconventional. Yoho and Kohler agreed to invest $1 million. “Going back, it is a success story,” Yoho said. “It’s inspiring kids, young artists, families.” After Ida hit in 2021, the site fell into ruins. The garden flooded, sculptures shattered. Contractors estimated it would take nearly $500,000 to

PROVIDED PHOTO

One of the pieces damaged during Hurricane Ida in 2021

A variety of sculptures stand at the Chauvin Sculpture Garden in Chauvin.

Eliza, from left, Rylee and Colin look up after entering the lighthouse. repair, which neither the professors nor the university had. LaFleur called the Kohler Foundation. Although Ruth Kohler had died a year before the hurricane, her legacy fund has given hundreds of thousands to the Chauvin restoration effort, LaFleur said. No lawyers. No contracts. The work commenced with a written description and a handshake.

Bringing it back Elliott, a skilled sculptor, presented a master plan. “We were all pretty competent artists,” he said. “It’s just one of those things where the almost coincidence fell in place to make sure that it happened.” Using cranes, scaffolding and hoists, they drilled rebar into concrete and metal anchors into the ground. Then they repainted each sculpture. Suspended sculptures were secured and reinstalled. “I’d be damned if he didn’t do it,” Siporski said of Elliott’s plan. “If you would’ve seen what it took to do it, you would have said it was impossible to repair, and he did it all.” Kimberly Arp, a printmaker and former art professor at Louisiana State University who joined Elliott and Siporski in the effort, said he had never worked with concrete figures. A sculpture of a large eagle had face-planted into the ground, with loose rebar hanging out. Fixing it was one of the group’s biggest feats. “It’s kind of magnificent that it was able to get back to its original state,” Arp said. “We are probably most proud we overcame that and got it back up right and in place.” The work was finished in April, in time for the region’s annual “Blessing of the Fleet,” a tradition rooted in prayers for a successful fishing season. As for Hill, stories vary on whether he is aware of any of this. Some say he has been invited to come back and finish his work. “He just chose not to,” said Andrew Cuneo, who grew

STAFF PHOTO By ENAN CHEDIAK wood along the bayou. “You can kind of tell that it was made with whatever he had on hand, you know? But it was a sizable house that was right here,” Cuneo said, pointing between two oleander trees. In January 2000, Hill got an eviction notice. He had a week to vacate. With only the clothes on his back, Hill left his magical world behind without saying goodbye. “He literally walked away from the garden. People saw him walking down the road that day and offered him a ride. He said, ‘No, I’m walking,’ ” said LaFleur. Perhaps he walked all the way to Arkansas to be with his brother. He may be in Baton Rouge with family. But no one at the garden seems to know exactly where he is now. (No one seems to need to ﬁnd out either.) “This labor of love is a gift to the people on the bayou, but it’s a double back gift to me,” Hill said, according to a Vieux Carré STAFF PHOTO By ENAN CHEDIAK Courier newspaper clip from 1993. He hoped to “wake the brains of people looking at it.” One recent visitor, Amanda Voisin, said, “It looks like an outlet for a lot of pain.” At the same time, she said it is a great place to bring her kids to explore another world.

Beckoning visitors “It’s never been better,” Siporski said. Busloads of visitors have traveled from faraway places to see the sculpture garden — China, Denmark, Brazil. “It would take an hour to list all the places,” Elliott said. LaFleur occasionally guides visitors. One Sunday afternoon, wearing a baseball cap to shield his face from the sun, he walked with children and their mothers STAFF PHOTO By ENAN CHEDIAK who stopped by for a visit. He One of the many self-portraits of Kenny Hill stands at the sculpture crouched down to point to a hidden symbol. garden. Perhaps one of the most inA dark ash path twists through triguing sights of the garden up two houses down. the garden toward a ﬂowered isn’t a sculpture. It is the layout Who was — or is — Kenny Hill? area. A group of tortured souls itself. From an aerial view, nine The artist is almost as enig- weep and crawl toward a rain- circles, some big, some small, matic as his creations, but this bow-colored road. Angels are are arranged in a particular ormuch is known, or believed to suspended above. der, like a map. Tiny versions “Every single person on this of the layout are sprinkled be known: Kenny Hill was born in the path is getting touched by an throughout the garden. 1950s, although documentation angel in some kind of way,” LaF“It’s for us to decide what it is missing. He was raised Pente- leur said. means,” LaFleur said. Some believe the symbol is the costal and left his wife and order of the planets or an kids before he moved to astrological prophecy. Chauvin, according to the Perhaps it’s the celestial artist docents and physialignment to a Second cal records. He began Coming, said local Madsculpting after the death of his mother, Dovey Hill, dison Scott, who works who loved rose bushes. as an artist docent. In the 1980s and into “A lot of people think the ’90s, he spent his he was a weird guy that free time building this was building sculptures. other world on the small I just think he was trying lot he rented. He used to get through his life, STAFF PHOTO By ENAN CHEDIAK trying to get through his one 5-gallon bucket of homemade concrete at a Gary LaFleur points to various artifacts at the struggles,” Scott said. time. He used leftover, nearby museum. Raegan Boudreaux, mismatched paint from who grew up down the his friend’s paint store, metal Another sculpture depicts street, said that some of the mesh, iron rods and miscella- Hill stepping from darkness to kids she rode with on the school neous objects. Textured details light, one leg painted black and bus believed that the sculptures the other in color. Elliot said he would come to life at night. came from a fork or spoon. “The energy depends on In the middle of his garden, thinks Hill is time-traveling to where you are. It is both heavy an angel carries an hourglass salvation. “Some people say he was and peaceful,” she said. made from two Crystal Hot Siporski said that each time he Sauce bottle necks cut in half. crazy. I don’t think so. It’s way Behind her, there’s a sculpture too rational and thought out,” visits, he sees something new. of Hill carrying a large wooden Elliott said. Hill built his house off the Email Violet Bucaro at violet. cross. He is shackled to a boat base of a trailer and collected bucaro@theadvocate.com. anchor behind him.

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ 9D

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PLACES

Continued from page 1D The trouble started with Scotland. Originally, Been and I counted it separately, the way plenty of travelers do, because it feels separate — a different ﬂag, a different accent, an underdog identity that I understood, what with growing up in Mississippi. Hong Kong — same thing. Yes, it was previously a British colony. Then it was a Chinese special administrative region. It was never sovereign. I knew that. I counted it anyway. I’m not completely certain why lists like this matter. How accurately can geography be measured, but the honest number sits south of 49. Plenty of places are asterisked. The Hong Kong skyline Borders move. Unions dissolve. South Sudan did not exist until it down and come back 20 years 2011. Czechoslovakia does not later to ﬁnd the label gone. exist anymore. A person can visit Still, it existed. It was there — a destination in good faith, write so was the visitor.

Which brings me to Mary Pettibone Poole, a woman I may never be able to verify existed beyond a small 1938 book called “A Glass

K-POP

Continued from page 1D puppy, too eager to be loved to play it cool. It’s having a big year in the U.S. with BTS selling out 10 stadium shows as part of its world tour; Bigbang, Stray Kids and Blackpink’s Jennie played major rock festivals this summer; and Blackpink’s Lisa sold out an October residency in Las Vegas in minutes. It’s becoming big business. Major retailers like Target and Barnes & Noble sell K-pop merchandise, and AMC theaters periodically livestreams K-pop concerts (August showings featured Ateez, Cortis and Katseye). Leigh Callahan, of Metairie, only has to look to the back of her phone to remember how K-pop became part of her life 11 years ago. She lived in Hattiesburg and was watching videos online when she ﬁrst saw GOT7. “I fell in love with Jay B,” a member of the group, and she still has a photo of him on her phone case. When Callahan found GOT7, she didn’t know anyone else who knew they existed. But at a K-pop summer market at the Carrollton tea shop called Tsaocaa (holy land of tea in Chinese), she pointed out teenagers and people in their 20s, 30s and 40s whose experiences loosely mirrored hers. “The fandom that K-pop has built is such an inclusive and beautiful

STAFF PHOTO By ENAN CHEDIAK

Meghan Haas Kirsch, left, works a table with K-pop music during a photocard trading meet up at Tsaocaa in New Orleans on July 25. fandom,” she said. One thing that sets K-pop fans apart is their creativity. They show their love by learning the bands’ choreography. They make bracelets and phone charms and photo strips to swap at concerts. Meghan Haas Kirsch, of Kenner, has K-pop-themed outﬁts she made from scratch for concerts and cosplay. “I started sewing with my grandmother in, like, ’96, ’97. I was, like, eight or nine,” she said, and she used that skill to replicate stage gear from Blackpink and BTS tours. Avery Martin is known professionally as DJ Save Train, and he shows his creativity in a very New

Orleans way by creating K-pop bounce remixes. Excerpts are in his TikTok feed, but full versions are on YouTube, complete with videos edited to go with the music. His biggest moment came when Taeyong, leader of the K-pop group NCT, shared three of Martin’s videos on TikTok. Martin knew nothing about it until “my phone just started going crazy,” he said. Friends told him what happened while people who learned of his remixes from Taeyong reached out to him to thank him. “It was just a cool feeling,” Martin said. Lynn Bartsch is the CEO of Fanlight Global, the American

about now. Yes, earlier versions of the saying existed. She likely didn’t say it first. But almost nothing else about her appears to have lasted. There’s no reliable biography or easy-to-find birth date. Strangely, I find that somewhat comforting and another reminder that permanence, as it turns out, is negotiable. As we prepare to unbox the things that apparently survived our house fire, we have no idea what we will find. The parallels to my country list are clear. I’ve spent a lot of my life keeping track of what I’ve seen. Now I’m about to find out what we still have. I am trying to rewire my brain not to care about how many countries I have visited. I am not there yet. STAFF PHOTO By JAN RISHER The trouble with counting is that eventually we have to decide what counts. Either way, here’s to Morocco. Eye at a Keyhole.” One line attributed to her is: “He who laughs, lasts.” Email Jan Risher at jan.risher@ I like that sentiment a lot right theadvocate.com.

company that makes light sticks, one of fans’ most beloved objects. Each band has its own light stick, and fans use them to extend a concert’s light show into the crowd since the production manager can synchronize them. She made sense of K-pop fandom by looking at pop culture properties like Star Wars, Star Trek and Disney. “It’s just the idea of building community around shared passions and interests,” she said. Taylor Swift’s relationship with Swifties is the closest American equivalent to K-pop’s relationship with its fans and the emphasis on community. “K-pop understands the centrality of the fandom, and the partnership that fandom can offer,” Bartsch said. Kristin Kendrick showed her fandom at the tea shop by sharing music through what she calls “The Given-Taken,” a title taken from the group Enhypen. It consisted of a table covered with K-pop albums, and offered free to anyone who buys a drink. It started when she saw that all the old stock from a K-pop store that went out of business ended up in the garbage. Kendrick rescued it and started her project of getting music into the hands of fans who have a hard time ﬁnding K-pop releases. Others help her replenish the pile to get the music in the hands of the people who love it. “We actually got into K-pop through a Korean dance game called ‘Pump It Up,’ ” she said, pointing to Meghan Haas next to

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her. “I was like 13, and I’m 35 now.” K-pop seems like an unusual center around which communities are built because the albums aren’t sold through conventional music retailers, and with few exceptions, the songs are largely in Korean. Fans who want to see the acts in concert have to travel to bigger cities or ﬁnd livestreams. The people who overcome those challenges don’t simply access the music, though. They ﬁnd the people with whom they share values in the same way that fans of other pop culture properties do. “Anyone can get a K-pop video popping up on their YouTube recommendations,” Callahan said. “But just because you watch it one time doesn’t mean you’re going to be invested. But if you watch it and you go, ‘Wait, I want to know more about this’ and then you keep learning more and you keep getting more invested — even if you’re casual, you are welcome.”

Upcoming events n K-pop NOLA and Burn Like A Flame present K-pop PowerPoint Night from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sept. 18 at Feng Cha tea shop, 2131 Magazine Street. Info: instagram.com/kpop. nola/ n K-pop Club Night with DJ Chen from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. Sept. 18 at Arora, 828 S. Peters St. Must be 18 or older. Tickets start at $27. Info: aroranola.com/

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10D ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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Argus fêtes royals, court to Voracious teen strains goodwill start Mardi Gras merriment Dear Miss Manners: Our family is fortunate to have a beach house. The last couple of years, we have allowed our boys, ages 15 and 13, to invite friends for a week to Judith Martin 10 days. The ﬁrst MISS year, we MANNERS didn’t expect or ask for money to cover any of the friends’ expenses. In one case, the family sent the child with no spending money whatsoever. We covered all of his meals, drinks and entertainment. That summer, this friend ate us out of house and home. He ordered the most expensive dinner on a menu — which we allowed once, then nixed his future expensive orders. He or-

BY VICTOR ANDREWS Staff writer

Krewe of Argus, the Jefferson Parish Carnival organization that rolls in Metairie on Mardi Gras, recently held coronation ceremonies for royalty that will reign over the 2027 parade at The Moore. Riding as Argus XLII will be Stephen I. Dwyer. Reigning as queen Argus LVII will be Isabella DePaula. The king is married to Jefferson Parish Council member Jennifer VanVranken, and the queen is the daughter of Drs. John and Alicia DePaula. Joining the monarchs on the court will be Carley Biscoe, daughter of Mr. Wilbert and Dr. Ronicka Brisco; Lydia Falati, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Falati; Stella Labadot, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Labadot; Scarlet Lin, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Lin; Emma Mantooth, daughter of Mr. Mark Mantooth and Ms. Rachel Dwyer Mantooth, and granddaughter of the king; Elizabeth Nerenberg, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Rory Nerenberg, who reigned as Amy Alexander, Queen Argus IX; Lily Rhoton, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Terrel Rhoton Jr.; and Olivia Rongey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Rongey. Also in attendance were the 2026 monarchs, David Haydel Jr. with his wife Joanne, and Callie Langhetee, daughter of Dr. Henry Langhetee and Ms. Wanda Theriot. The monarch recently graduated from the Academy of Sacred Heart. She was a National Merit Scholarship Finalist and is attending the University of

PROVIDED PHOTOS By STUDIO TRAN PHOTOGRAPHy

Reigning over the festivities for the Krewe of Argus 2027 will be Queen Argus XLII Isabella DePaula and Argus XLII Stephen I. Dwyer.

Members of the court of the Krewe of Argus include, from left, Scarlet Lin, Elizabeth Nerenberg, Emma Mantooth, Olivia Rongey, Isabella DePaula, Lydia Falati, Carley Briscoe and Lily Rhoton. Alabama. Captains for the krewe, who presided over the crowning festivities, are Lawrence Chehardy and Robert DeViney. Following the ceremonial proceedings, guests enjoyed

dining and dancing, ofﬁcially launching the Carnival 2027 season. The krewe will parade along the traditional Veterans Memorial Boulevard route in Metairie on Mardi Gras, Feb. 19, 2027.

A deal-making system for vacation planning Dear Heloise: My husband and I used to argue over where we would vacation every year. In fact, it was the only thing that we argued about. We sat down and ﬁgured Hints from a system, Heloise out and it’s since stopped the annual ﬁght. One year, he picks the place we’ll go, and the next year, I pick the place. I told him that I had three stipulations: First, no camping trips; I refuse to live in a tent. I want a hot shower and a comfy bed. A second no-go was that we wouldn’t keep going to the same place every year. Four years had to pass before we went to a

place that we had already been to. The third stipulation was that we wouldn’t complain about the other’s choice; instead, we’d keep an open mind and make an effort to enjoy the place. We’ve been to many exciting places and made friends all over the world. It was the best decision we’ve ever made. — Paula and Chad G., in Tulsa, Oklahoma

There’s a hair in my food! Dear Heloise: Before I prepare a meal, especially if I’m making food for a group or party, I take a lint roller and run this over my clothes and hair. I have long hair and feel like there’s nothing worse than eating something with a hair in it. I always put my hair up when I’m preparing food.

Dawnne Keeney

Hope this helps! — Becky B., via email Send a hint to heloise@ heloise.com.

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By The Associated Press Today is Sunday, Aug. 23, the 235th day of 2026. There are 130 days left in the year. Today in history: On Aug. 23, 1970, the Salad Bowl strike began, organized by farm labor leader Cesar Chavez; between 5,000 to 10,000 laborers walked off the job, leading to the largest farmworker strike in U.S. history. Also on this date: In 1305, Scottish rebel leader Sir William Wallace was executed by the English for treason. In 1775, Britain’s King George III proclaimed the American colonies to be in a state of “open and avowed rebellion.” In 1914, Japan declared war against Germany in World War I. In 1927, amid worldwide protests, Italian-born anarchists Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti were executed in Boston for the murders of two men during a 1920 robbery. (On the 50th anniversary of their executions, then-Massachusetts Gov. Michael

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will need some spending money. You may also want to send him with the snacks he prefers, since we may not have enough supplies on hand.” Once on vacation, tell Spencer the rule that if he is to act like one of the family, with all the advantages that entails, he must also take on the responsibilities. Treat him as you would your own children: expecting him to help with cleanup, limiting expensive treats, adhering to family rules and curfews, etc. You will be doing the boy a favor, and his parents as well. Surely, even with contributing to vacation expenses, it will be less expensive than having him home — and bored — for a week. Email dearmissmanners@ gmail.

TODAY IN HISTORY

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dered appetizers before his dinner at restaurants, and had total disregard for sharing the food at the house. He would eat it all if we didn’t monitor or stop him. This child has been friends with my son since kindergarten, so obviously he feels very comfortable being one of the family. However, he made me incredibly frustrated with his attitude of entitlement. Upon returning home, I mentioned his impressive eating habits to his mother; she blushed and agreed that he eats a lot. Gentle Reader: If your hospitality is to continue, Miss Manners suggests you set some rules — for both the parents and the children. When you issue the invitation, tell the parents, “We would love to have Spencer join us for the week, but he

Dukakis issued a proclamation that Sacco and Vanzetti had been unfairly tried and convicted.) In 1939, Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union agreed to a non-aggression treaty, the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact, in Moscow. In 2000, a Gulf Air Airbus crashed into the Persian Gulf near Bahrain, killing all 143 people aboard. In 2011, a magnitude 5.8 earthquake centered near Mineral, Virginia, the strongest on the East Coast since 1944, caused cracks in the Washington Monument and damaged the Washington National Cathedral. In 2013, a military jury convicted Maj. Nidal Hasan in the deadly 2009 shooting rampage at Fort Hood, Texas, that claimed 13 lives; the Army psychiatrist was later sentenced to death. In 2020, a White police ofﬁcer in Kenosha, Wisconsin, shot a Black man, Jacob Blake, seven times as ofﬁcers tried to arrest Blake on an outstanding warrant; the shooting left Blake partially paralyzed

and triggered several nights of violent protests. In 2022, a jury convicted two men of conspiring to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2020, a victory for prosecutors in a plot that was broken up by the FBI and described as a rallying cry for a U.S. civil war by anti-government extremists. Today’s Birthdays: Actor Vera Miles is 97. Actor Barbara Eden is 95. Ballerina Patricia McBride is 84. Singer-songwriter Linda Thompson is 79. Author and motivational speaker Rudy Ruettiger is 78. Actor Shelley Long is 77. Actorsinger Rick Springﬁeld is 77. Noor al-Hussein (Queen Noor of Jordan) is 75. Film composer Alexandre Desplat is 65. Actor Jay Mohr is 56. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is 55. Actor Ray Park is 52. Actor Scott Caan is 50. Rock singer Julian Casablancas (The Strokes) is 48. Actor Joanne Froggatt is 46. Olympic gold medal swimmer Natalie Coughlin Hall is 44. Musician Lil Yachty is 29. NBA basketball player Devin Vassell is 26.

TALKING BUSINESS How CEO Verret keeps Campus Federal ‘near the forefront’ 3E

ACROSS THE REGION Amazon’s third La. data center brings area investment to $18B 4E

BUSINESS N O L A.C O M

S u n d ay, au g u S t 23, 2026

1En

Breathing

room

Hoda Kotb’s new wellness business, Joy 101, lands Ochsner partnership, launching festival in New Orleans BY RICH COLLINS Staff writer

Former “Today” show co-host Hoda Kotb tried her ﬁrst “breathwork” training session a few years ago on the advice of a friend — and she said the experience was transformative. “I followed the instructions, did the exercises, and suddenly I just exploded in tears from the stress relief,” she said last week during a phone interview. “The next time I arrived at work at my usual 4 a.m., it was like someone had taken a squeegee to my brain and got rid of the fog. It was like a magic trick.” Kotb’s experience with one of the fastest-growing practices in the wellness world proved so powerful that after she left “Today” last year to spend more time with her kids, her next big project was partnering to launch an app called “Joy 101,” a clearinghouse for “bite-sized” lessons from experts on breathwork, meditation, stretching and other activities designed to improve physical, mental and emotional well-being.

IDEAS &

INNOVATION

ä See KOTB, page 2E

ABOVE: Former ‘Today’ show co-host Hoda Kotb has begun a new venture, and it has led her back to New Orleans. ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO

LEFT: Kotb in a partnership launched Joy 101, an app pproviding ‘bite-sized’ lessons ffrom experts on breathwork, meditation, stretching and other activities designed to im mprove physical, mental and emotional well-being. PROVIDED IMAGE By JOy101

State economists eye bids on Gulf Coast drilling leases BY IANNE SALVOSA Staff writer

Companies bid nearly $83 million for the right to drill for oil in Gulf waters off the coast of Louisiana, a sign that demand may be steadying even though the continuing war with Iran is keeping oil prices high. The sale volume of the recent lease deal is slightly concerning, said Loren Scott, a retired LSU economist. Prior sales ﬁve or six years ago generated more than $120 million. Scott said he expected sales similar to or higher than that level because of the support the Trump administration has for fossil fuels, the resumption of a lease sale schedule that was discontinued during the Biden administration and reduced royalty rates. “The prospect for really strong growth in the Gulf is not quite there,” he said.

The $83 million also suggests the offshore industry is not declining either but staying steady, he said. The sale earlier this month was the third out of 30 mandated by the One Big, Beautiful Bill backed by President Donald Trump. Trump’s reinstatement of the leasing schedule restores the limit for drilling deals that was in place since the 1950s. The Biden administration discontinued the lease schedule and allowed only three sales over five years. “Everything is a lot more certain,” Scott said. Certainty is a key tenet in the oil and gas industry, so companies can gauge their investments. From the point of the lease sale to producing oil can take about a decade, the time between dedicated to exploration of the area, construction and determining if there even is oil beneath the surface.

The ﬁrst lease sale in December drew more than $300 million from 148 bids. But the March sale saw activity plunge to $47 million from 38 bids. The recent sale may be where the sale volume settles, said Tommy Faucheux, president of Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association, an energy industry group. “I think now what we see is companies getting their stride,” Faucheux said. Greg Upton, executive director of the LSU Center for Energy Studies, said the December volume could have been boosted by “pent up interest” since there had been few lease sales. The energy sector employs more than 306,000 in the state, according to a 2025 economic impact study conducted by Stephen Barnes, an

PROVIDED PHOTO By HESS CORP.

Experts say that activity or job levels for Gulf Coast oilfield service companies won’t have dramatic upswings or downswings in the ä See DRILLING, page 2E near future as the industry remains steady.

2E ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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How much would you spend to extend your dying pet’s life? Simba stopped chasing his squeaky toys. He wouldn’t run after the tennis ball or play our evening game of hide-and-seek. These were the ﬁrst signs that our nearly-14-year-old shih tzuYorkie mix’s health was failing. The decline came fast. Late last year, during a routine checkup, the vet detected a heart murmur in Simba and recommended a cardiac ultrasound. “How much will that cost?” I asked my husband, who had taken Simba to his appointment. “Does it matter?” he said. “How much are you willing to spend to keep him alive?” My husband said the scan and assessment could be about $1,000. In an attempt to inject levity into a heartbreaking situation, I said, “Well, Simba’s had a wonderful life with us.” “You’re joking, right?” my husband asked, genuinely concerned. Despite my affection for Simba, I did debate internally how far we should go to extend his life — and at what cost. We opted not to purchase pet insurance years ago. The policies my husband and I reviewed didn’t cover wellness exams, vaccines or dental cleanings. They also wouldn’t cover preexisting conditions. For us, there were so many ﬁne-print conditions and exclusions that

Michelle Singletary THE COLOR OF MONEy

we were concerned pet insurance wouldn’t pay off in the end. Now, facing steep vet bills, I was worried about our little guy and our budget. What if the specialist recommended an expensive heart surgery? We have the savings for a big bill, but at almost 14, Simba is already at the average life expectancy for his small breed. I’ve gone back and forth about whether it’s cruel to take that into account. Paying for an animal’s treatment is a difficult choice, made even harder when you’re making life-and-death decisions for a companion who can’t tell you what they want. Where do you draw the line between comfortable end-of-life care and costly medical interventions? The decision to treat a pet is especially difficult for families already struggling financially. Higher prices for gas, groceries and utilities make it hard to justify spending their savings on their pet’s vet bills.

A 2025 poll by Gallup and PetSmart Charities of pet owners found that more than half of them — 52% — have declined recommended veterinary care or skipped a visit entirely, often citing ﬁnancial concerns. Lower-income households earning $60,000 or less struggle most with basic affordability, while higher earners are more likely to forgo treatments they don’t consider worth the cost. A third of pet owners earning $90,000 or more have skipped care because it was too expensive. A second Gallup and PetSmart Charities poll of veterinarians released in early 2026 found that nearly all veterinarians, 94%, said their clients’ budgets sometimes or often prevent them from following through with recommended treatment. Then there are owners who go into debt for their pets. In a 2024 LendingTree survey of nearly 2,000 Americans, 37% of pet owners reported doing this. In most cases, it was because of a medical emergency. When a co-worker heard about Simba, she reached out with her own story about facing a health crisis affecting her 9-year-old rescue dog. The border collieGreat Pyrenees mix, Gracie, needed emergency abdominal surgery to remove a mass. “Where do I draw the line both

on what I’m willing to put her through to give her a chance and on what I can afford?” she asked. Without knowing whether her pet insurance, which cost her about $1,600 annually, would reimburse her, she put the $10,000 bill on a credit card. Thankfully, her plan covered 80% of the surgery’s cost. We took Simba to see the specialist late last year. A few months later, in April, he became lethargic and began coughing constantly. After several more visits and X-rays, his condition had worsened. He has chronic heart disease that has progressed to congestive heart failure. He’s now on a regimen of cardiac medications. Some days Simba is like his healthier self, dropping his yellow tennis ball at my feet, ready to play fetch. Even then, he can only manage a round or two of the game. Other days, he’s listless and just wants to curl up at my feet. My husband and I are fortunate to have a ﬁnancial cushion that allows us to give Simba the best care possible. But we care about his comfort, too: We’ve agreed not to pursue extraordinary measures at the expense of his quality of life. Here’s what I can say if you ﬁnd yourself in the situation we are in now.

If you decide to pay for care with a credit card, make a plan to pay off that debt. Get help from a nonprofit credit counselor who can help you work the new expense into your budget. You can find a counselor through the National Foundation for Credit Counseling at nfcc.org or by calling (844) 865-2828. If you have a hard-stop spending limit for whatever reason, it doesn’t mean you love your pet any less than someone who is willing to take on significant debt. Choosing not to pursue aggressive, high-cost interventions for a pet can be a humane decision that prevents prolonged medical trauma and suffering. If you have a healthy pet, start saving now before a crisis hits. You can self-insure or purchase a pet insurance policy, but be sure to shop around and read every plan’s fine print. I’ve spent much of my career advising people to live within their means and avoid unmanageable debt. Yet I know how hard it is to focus only on the numbers when your pet is the one suffering. Watching Simba snooze contentedly in the sun, I know keeping him comfortable is worth every dollar we’ve spent. Email Michelle Singletary at michelle.singletary@washpost. com.

KOTB

DRILLING

Now, a little more than a year after unveiling the platform, Kotb and her Joy 101 co-founders — including her longtime friend and former WWL-TV anchor Karen Swensen — are announcing plans to scale up. And New Orleans features prominently in those plans. On Thursday, the startup announced a partnership with Ochsner Health that will provide all of the health system’s roughly 40,000 employees access to Joy 101’s content. Kotb and Swensen also announced this week that next year New Orleans will be the site of their company’s biggest-ever event, called “Joy Fest.” Contributors to Kotb’s startup include Harvard University’s “happiness” professor Arthur C. Brooks and designer and HGTV personality Joanna Gaines, among dozens of other experts and household names, but Kotb also relied heavily on her New Orleans connections, forged during her 1990s stint as an anchor at WWL, to get the project off the ground. Saints and Pelicans owner Gayle Benson, for instance, is one of the venture’s investors. Now, with this week’s announcements, she’s leaning further into those ties. “All roads lead to New Orleans, and that’s the way it’s worked for me my whole career,” Kotb said. “That’s why hardly a day on the ‘Today’ show went by where somebody didn’t hold up a Who Dat sign outside the window.”

economist at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. The industry contributed $25.5 billion to the Louisiana economy via direct, indirect and induced impacts. Oil and gas extraction is the second largest share of jobs employing more than 28,000, the first spot notched by chemical and plastic manufacturing. Experts say that activity or job levels for local oilfield service companies won’t have dramatic upswings or downswings in the near future as the industry remains steady. The continuation of regularly scheduled Gulf lease sales indicates stability and will likely mean Louisiana will still have an “all of the above” energy strategy, that incorporates traditional sources like oil, nuclear and renewable sources such as solar or wind power. The oil and gas industry in Louisiana is in a mature state, said Barnes, executive director of the Blanco Public Policy Center, and though sweeping federal policies on oil extraction may be eye-catching, their effects on the industry’s presence tend to be muted due to long periods between policy enactment and drilling activity. “Policy can accelerate or slow the pace of any one piece, and we’ve seen significant swings recently, especially at the federal level,” Barnes said. “But the underlying economics point toward diversification over time.” As of Tuesday, oil was priced at nearly $86.50 a barrel, according to figures from the U.S. Energy Information Administration. That’s up nearly 34% from the same time a year ago, when oil was trading at nearly $64.60 a barrel. But despite the price jump caused by the war with Iran, Gulf drilling activity is holding steady. There are currently 38 oil rigs operating off the Louisiana coast, according to data from energy technology company Baker Hughes. That’s just slightly up from 36 at this time last year. “It’s important to sustain the level we have right now,” Barnes said of the oil industry activity. With the war in Iran straining oil from the Middle East, companies’ attention may turn toward liquefied natural gas as an alternative, he said. The Gulf Coast already leads the country in LNG export capacity and more investment is on the way in Cameron Parish. Barnes said the Gulf Coast could also see more refinery investment as a result of damage caused by the war to petroleum processing facilities in the Middle East. “It does move the needle,” he said.

Continued from page 1E

PROVIDED PHOTO

Kate Spies, from left, Noel yerington, Hoda Kotb, Karen Swensen and Annorelle Nevarez pose for a photo at Cannes Lions, an international marketing, media and advertising conference, in June. All five are members of the Joy 101 team. meditation, breathwork, positivity, movement, personal growth and longevity. Users can upload details about their age, stress levels, goals and time constraints to receive custom programs and checklists. The company hasn’t released a current subscriber count, but last September, one of its investors, CapStone Holdings, reported the startup signed up 5,000 paying customers in its first week of operation while securing $2 million in brand partnerships. Kotb has leveraged her trademark warmth and good cheer to grow that number by making regular

leagues. In addition to the multipronged media approach, Kotb is prioritizing in-person events. “Being with people is what lights me up and makes me come alive, so we had to have experiences where people can look each other in the eye,” she said. Massive marketplace Last year, Kotb appeared at a free retreat for New York Kotb stepped away from her City public school teachers, “Today” co-anchor role in Janufollowed by a paid event in ary 2025 and unveiled Joy 101 February in Scottsdale, Arizoabout five months later. Now, instead of showing up na. Next up is a fall retreat at at Rockefeller Center at 4 a.m. a Ritz-Carlton hotel in Amelia every day, the veteran anchor Island, Florida. Tickets startoversees the new company’s ing at $3,300 are on sale now. growth strategy Plans for Joy Fest and about 20 mostly “All roads lead to New Orleans, and that’s next year in New remote employees the way it’s worked for me my whole career. Orleans are still from a second-floor coming together, office above a bank That’s why hardly a day on the ‘Today’ show but Kotb said she i n We s t c h e s t e r went by where somebody didn’t hold up a expects between County, just north 1,500 and 2,000 peoWho Dat sign outside the window.” of New York City. ple to attend. Gaines, the HGTV Swensen said she HODA KOTB d e s i g n e r, g a v e and Kotb were inthe place a maspired by another jor makeover before Joy 101 appearances on the app, intro- longtime New Orleans-based moved in. ducing experts, delivering pep gathering as they chose the loKotb gets help from Sw- talks and offering personalized cation. “Hoda and I remember the ensen, who lives in New Or- messages. Since the launch, she’s also first Essence Fest, the original leans’ Lakeview neighborhood, and several other co-founders, focused on bringing Joy 101’s ‘party with a purpose,’ and we watched them grow,” she said. including her sister Hala Kotb. content to new places. In January, she launched the Together, the partners are fine tuning a strategy to compete mobile interview show “Joy New Orleans connections in the $6.8 trillion — yes, that’s Rides” on Joy 101’s YouTube Kotb’s Joy 101 collaborators trillion with a “T” — global channel, which already has include many prominent nawellness industry, which has more than 200,000 subscribers. tional figures, like neurosciengrown 35% since the pandemic In June, she launched the “Joy tist Wendy Suzuki, a professor as interest in health and well- 101 with Hoda Kotb” podcast, at New York University; and being has increased worldwide. talking to experts about how Maria Shriver, the journalist, One of their more established to find happiness during major former California first lady and competitors in the app space life changes and challenges. member of the Kennedy famis Calm, a 14-year-old digital Both shows bring in sponsor- ily. The startup’s co-founder wellness company valued at $2 ship revenue. and executive chair is Mike billion. Kotb published the book Xenakis, one of the founders After a free trial, Joy 101’s “Jump and Find Joy” last year. of the successful technology members pay about $17 per She also hosts live “happiness company Open Table. month or a $100 annual fee to hours” online that sometimes But Joy 101 has a lot of New access content about sleep, feature her former TV col- Orleans connections as well, all

tracing back to Kotb’s stint at WWL from 1992 to 1998. Former New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees and Grammy-winning musician Jon Batiste — two New Orleans icons — are advisers. And because of relationships like this, Swensen believes the city is the perfect place to kick-start the venture’s ﬁrst “enterprise” partnership, selling bulk subscriptions at a discount. She and Kotb met Ochsner CEO Pete November several months ago to successfully pitch the idea, with help from Benson, who said the app “gives people practical tools they can use every day.” Swensen said Joy 101’s bitesized exercises make sense for the fast-paced environment of a healthcare system that’s also the region’s biggest private employer. “People are encouraged to use it on the clock because it gives a moment to recharge and refocus,” she said. “We want to help people in highstress, high-performance environments perform better.” Now Kotb, Swensen and their partners and investors are hoping the Ochsner deal will lead the way for more companies in more cities to buy in — but Kotb said she wants the growth to happen organically. “I don’t know where we’ll wind up in the end, but I believe it will be a great place because we’re helping people,” Kotb said. “Karen is my best friend and one of the smartest people I know, and to bring in Gayle, Drew and Jon into the equation, it all makes sense. We’re going to go where the energy ﬂows.” Email Rich Collins at rich. collins@theadvocate.com.

Workforce impact The predictability of the lease sales will have impacts reaching far beyond big industry, Faucheux said. With predictable sales comes predictable jobs, he said, because people can count on offshore energy jobs being available in about 10 years from the recent sales. “It is a reminder for us that not only is the industry strong, but that we have now created another decade of opportunity for kids,” Faucheux said. Most of offshore energy production is serviced out of Port Fourchon in Lafourche Parish, which leases waterfront space to companies that provide services like vessel cleaning or repairs, powering the Gulf drilling that provides 15% of U.S. crude oil. Progress in the offshore energy sector is contingent on the concurrent growth of infrastructure to support it, he said. Ensuring Port Fourchon’s channels are dredged to proper depths and permitting new pipelines is necessary to support the industry, he said. “We’re headed in the right direction,” Faucheux said. Email Ianne Salvosa at ianne.salvosa@ theadvocate.com.

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ 3E

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TALKING BUSINESS A S K T H E E X P E RT S

Nearing $1B in assets, credit union is not done growing Staff writer

Q&A WITH JANE VERRET

Campus Federal Credit Union CEO Jane Verret has her eyes set ahead of the curve. The financial services industry is constantly changing, she says, with developing technologies, fluctuating interest rates and evolving customer needs. As the credit union has grown from about $150 million in assets when she joined the company in 1997 to nearly $980 million in assets today, she’s positioned Campus Federal “near the forefront” to find ways to increase efficiency and access to members while being cautious about their investments. Campus Federal was founded in 1934 and serves LSU faculty, staff, students and members of alumni associations. In 2023, the credit union opened a branch on Siegen Lane in Baton Rouge with a hub for mortgages, lending options and business services. An Airline Highway branch is set to open by the end of the year, replacing the Long Farm Village location. The southernmost part of East Baton Rouge and Ascension parishes is becoming a hot spot for bankers, targeting the area due to Ascension’s burgeoning business opportunities like Hyundai’s steel mill. The credit union says it has more than 44,000 members and operates 11 branches in Baton Rouge, New Orleans and Shreveport. Campus Federal’s accessibility and community connections set them apart, Verret said. “It’s a challenge because Louisiana is a takeaway market in banking,” Verret

We can help you with that, too, and we’re here to tell you about the path forward when that happens. Making it an educational process has relieved some fears and some nerves about the interest rate environment. You said people who were waiting are getting into it now. What changed? They’re running out of patience. It’s just realizing that life goes on, and there are options regardless of how things seem at that moment, and rates seem really high to us because they’ve been so low for so long. I’d love to talk now about your LSU roots and partnerships. Can you tell me what that relationship looks like today? We do a lot of ﬁnancial literacy training for students, for faculty, for staff. We sponsor and support a lot of events on campus and try to stay as plugged into that community as possible. We have ambassador groups on each of those campuses, and they are really telling us what needs we can meet for people who are in the LSU community. They are singing the praises of Campus Federal to their co-workers and to new people that come to campus. They’re really great conduits of information for us to know if something’s going wrong with a product or if there’s something that people don’t like about something that we’re doing. I was reading in Forbes that Gen Z is really starting to use credit unions more so than banks, and this might be par for the course for you guys

BY IANNE SALVOSA

CEO OF CAMPUS FEDERAL CREDIT UNION

STAFF PHOTO By PEARL SPURLOCK

CEO Jane Verret has positioned Campus Federal Credit Union ‘near the forefront’ of the financial services industry to find ways to increase efficiency and access to members while being cautious about their investments. said. “Some people view it as a commodity, so positioning yourselves to be unique and to provide a unique service is a difﬁcult challenge.” In this week’s Talking Business, Verret discusses banking industry trends, Campus Federal’s LSU roots and banking with Gen Z. This interview has been edited for length and clarity. How have banking standards changed over time? Banking is a complicated business because people expect all the latest and greatest with technology and ease of access and convenience from a digital standpoint, but they also like to have a location close to them where people can be the expert and give them advice. We’ve tried to evolve

both with where we put our physical locations for convenience, and also with the digital technologies. It’s an expensive proposition to do both at the same time. But doing the things we’ve done digitally makes it so much easier, and we’ve really focused on are what technologies are the most important for making our lives easier of our members. Does it make it easier on your employees as well? It does. They have to adapt, of course, to the changes, but it allows them to be those problem solvers when a member comes in. What have you noticed in terms of lending trends? It’s been interesting watching people’s reaction to the rate environment

changing. Are they going to go up? Are they going to go down? Should we wait to make a purchase? I think for a little while, while rates have been a little bit higher, most consumers we’ve seen hold off, and we saw lending kind of pull back a little bit to say, “Oh, I don’t. I’m going to wait. They’re going to come down. Then I’ll buy that house. Then I’ll buy that car. Then I’ll do whatever.” But we’re seeing the people who were waiting now going, “I’m going to get into it now.” We explain to them how they can go ahead and buy that house, get that mortgage and how refinancing in a few years if rates do go down is not that difﬁcult.

since you have the LSU connection. But have you noticed a strengthened need from that demographic? Definitely. That group looks for meaning. The things that the credit union offers that are more based in doing the right thing for people really resonates with that group, and it’s great to see that happening because our ability to gain new members as students come onto campus has greatly changed as things have evolved. Once upon a time when I ﬁrst started at the credit union, we would set up tables in the union every August, and students would come in and open their accounts as part of their cometo-campus process, and then it got to where they don’t need that anymore because they can bank electronically with Mom and Dad’s bank in Kalamazoo, Michigan, or wherever they’re coming from, all across the nation, all across the world. That made it a little more challenging. How do we make them know that they can and should bank with us because we’re right here? Being creative in how we tell our story, making sure our website is good and says who we are and what we offer, has become even more meaningful because they’re looking and they want to bank with someone that has similar values or supports things that they care about. It’s really changed the way we approach that group. Email Ianne Salvosa at ianne.salvosa@ theadvocate.com.

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4E ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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ACROSS THE REGION

Amazon plans third northwest Louisiana data center Shreveport announcement delayed by lawsuits BY LIZ SWAINE Staff writer

Amazon Web Services announced plans to build a third data center in northwest Louisiana, bringing its total investment in the area to $18 billion. The new west Shreveport data center at Resilient Technology Park will join two facilities already under construction: one in Bossier Parish near Benton, the other in Caddo Parish near Blanchard, each costing an estimated $6 billion. “We’re growing here because of our confidence in the region’s infrastructure, workforce and leadership,” said Keith Klein, AWS director of data center supply solutions. The west Shreveport data center was set to be announced in February by Gov. Jeff Landry, along with the other projects. But it was pulled from the event STAFF PHOTOS By JILL PICKETT after a lawsuit filed by three Caddo Parish residents created enough Keith Klein, Amazon Web Services director of data center supply uncertainty to warrant a delay. solutions, speaks during an economic development announcement The three residents claimed the Tuesday at Government Plaza in Shreveport. Amazon is planning a city “violated its constitutional and statutory obligations” when the third data center in northwest Louisiana. The new west Shreveport data City Council voted to overturn the center at Resilient Technology Park will join two facilities already under Metropolitan Planning Commis- construction: one in Bossier Parish near Benton, the other in Caddo sion’s denial of a Special Use Per- Parish near Blanchard, each costing an estimated $6 billion. mit for the proposed data center. Though the lawsuit is still working “We’re growing here because of our confidence in the region’s its way through the courts, AWS infrastructure, workforce and leadership.” was confident enough with the outcome to move forward. KEITH KLEIN, Amazon Web Services director of data center supply solutions “It’s still pending, it’s on appeal,” Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux North Louisiana Economic Partsaid. “We’re just very confident construction jobs will be created, in the result. Of course, it’s their Klein said. nership CEO Justyn Dixon said judgment, it’s their billions of dolThe permanent jobs will be for the permanent jobs will be paying skilled trades like electricians, 150% of the statewide average, or lars.” HVAC, network specialists, engi- $90,000. New center, new numbers “I think that checks the box, and neers, operations managers and that’s what it’s about. It’s about The third campus will add to the security professionals. “These are jobs with competitive jobs, folks,” he said. 250 jobs to the northwest LouisiMore than half the subcontracana AWS jobs total, bringing the pay and comprehensive benefits,” total to 750. An estimated 2,250 said Klein. tor and vendor contracts award-

Matt VanderZanden, CEO of STACK Infrastructure, which is developing the centers for AWS, said ‘this project will pay for and construct all of the infrastructure needed to support the development.’ ed so far had gone to local firms, said Matt VanderZanden, CEO of STACK Infrastructure, which is developing the centers for AWS. Residents of the neighborhoods near Resilient Park have shown up in number at City Hall and community forums to share their concerns publicly. VanderZanden gave a nod to community concerns when he said the firm has reduced the overall development footprint by 14% making sure to preserve more green space and natural buffers around the campus. Documents filed with the Shreveport Metropolitan Planning Commission show plans are for more than a 1 million-square-foot data center and a 104,000-square-foot office building in the 313-acre technology park. “As noted previously, this project will pay for and construct all

of the infrastructure needed to support the development,” said VanderZanden, referencing a variety of water improvements. AWS will cover all expenses for new infrastructure and upgraded needed to power operations at the facility. “We’ve worked closely with SWEPCO to ensure the grid is prepared for future demand, and that the cost of serving our facilities are not passed on to ratepayers,” he said. Dixon said businesses already in northwest Louisiana are uniquely positioned to play a role in data center infrastructure. “We have multiple companies that play in that data center ﬁeld,” Dixon said. “You know, we recruited SLB out to the old GM plant with 600 plus jobs, and they build systems for data centers. We have Fibrebond, just bought by Eaton. They provide power systems for data centers. We have Gordon Inc. We have Module x. These are all companies that right now, you know, work with data centers, so we have a supply network built in already.”

The timeline is tight The construction of the west Shreveport data center is going to be a fast build. “We expect the first building to come up quick by the middle of next year, by mid-2027,” said VanderZanden. All ﬁve buildings will be completed by 2028. Susan Bourgeois, Louisiana Economic Development secretary, said speed to market is what is driving the whole push toward data center construction and the AI industry. “So we at the deBourgeois partment are trying to become, more than anything, making sure that there aren’t barriers in the way of the private sector investing and creating jobs because speed is what matters to them most,” she said.

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6E ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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NATION & WORLD

Chuck E. Cheese reinvents itself with a new era of play “If you have not been in a Chuck E. Cheese in the last four years, you have no idea what today’s Chuck E. Cheese is.”

BY ZOE KOLENOVSKY

The Dallas Morning News (TNS) Everyone knows Chuck E. Cheese. For newly minted CEO Scott Drake, that’s been a blessing and a curse. The Irving, Texas-based kids’ entertainment giant has an undeniably iconic brand identity. The eponymous mouse behind the pizza-and-arcade-games empire has been a household name for decades. And with 550,000 birthday parties a year, the company has a good reason to call itself the “birthday capital of America.” But as Drake likes to say, “If you have not been in a Chuck E. Cheese in the last four years, you have no idea what today’s Chuck E. Cheese is.” That’s because the company has been undergoing a total refresh. It’s invested millions in renovating its hundreds of U.S. locations and has implemented revamped pricing packages designed to meet families where they are. These initiatives are all intended to maximize customer value, and Drake said the company has seen an incredible boost in sales as a result. It couldn’t have come at a better time. Almost seven years ago, Chuck E. Cheese was in the hole. In its annual financial report for fiscal year 2019 (the last time one was filed publicly), Chuck E. Cheese’s parent company CEC Entertainment reported losses of $28 million. The following year, the COVID-19 pandemic forced families to stay home, strangling revenues across industries that relied on in-person customers. The party powerhouse was hit hard. In June 2020, CEC Entertainment filed for bankruptcy. Chuck E. Cheese’s fiscal woes trace back even further than its Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2020. It had been carrying a debt burden of close to $1 billion for years after private equity firm Apollo Global Management Inc. took CEC Entertainment private in a leveraged buyout. That debt, first reported at

SCOTT DRAKE, CEO of CEC Entertainment

CHICAGO TRIBUNE/TNS PHOTO By BRIAN CASSELLA

The animatronic band performs in 2017 at Chuck E Cheese in Chicago’s Lincoln Park. The Irving, Texas-based kids’ entertainment giant has an undeniably iconic brand identity. The eponymous mouse behind the pizzaand-arcade-games empire has been a household name for decades. $998 million in the company’s annual financial filing for fiscal year 2014, had only diminished by $76 million five years later. Drake was no stranger to tricky corporate finances. He’s been balancing the books at major players in the North Texas business scene for decades, having previously led financial planning teams at Farmer Brothers Coffee Co., GameStop and 7-Eleven. “I’m usually that person. I’m coming in, and I’m restructuring,” Drake said. “I’m either peeling off parts that don’t make sense, I’m adding parts that could make sense, or I’m finding cost savings and avenues and all of that kind of creative destruction to save money or make operations better.” But when he got to Chuck E. Cheese, he found that things were already running pretty smoothly.

A huge part of the company’s business is games — Drake says Chuck E. Cheese operates more video games than anyone in the world. And in almost 50 years, it has gotten good at it. There’s a technician based in almost every store to step in when games break down and minimize lost play time, keeping efficiency scores up. Employees are also highly knowledgeable. When Drake was first getting acquainted with the business before taking the job, he visited several locations almost “Undercover Boss”-style to get the lay of the land. Drake came away from his backgrounding with the impression that Chuck E. Cheese’s workforce was talented, tenured and efficient. He also felt that the leadership team was incredibly strong. All in all, Chuck E. Cheese was

presenting a foundation that Drake could work with. But it also meant he had to get creative if he wanted to shore things up even further. Step one was to revamp the brand. As Drake put it, “We’ve got to ﬁx the box before we invite people in.” The company spent $350 million on revamping all its U.S. stores — an investment that was made possible by the debt restructuring in 2020. Much of the focus was on modernizing operations. It did away with physical tickets that kids have to keep track of after they win a game, digitizing the process with Play Passes and Play Bands. It also built large video walls in every store to stream kid-friendly content alongside an interactive dance ﬂoor, making it easier for the team to craft narratives

around a certain party theme or update decor for holiday seasons, while opening an opportunity for partnerships with brands like Kidz Bop and the Harlem Globetrotters. Step two was to drive trafﬁc. As a self-proclaimed “numbers guy,” Drake turned to the data for answers. Throughout the company’s history, customers have tended to visit a Chuck E. Cheese location once or twice a year, on average. Drake immediately saw that building the frequency of those visits would be “an enormous ﬁnancial unlock.” In 2024, the company rolled out new membership models to incentivize families to come more often. It relaunched a revamped summer fun pass, which now gets families two months of unlimited gameplay and visits plus discounted food for $54.99. Previously, the most passes Chuck E. Cheese had ever sold in a year was 75,000. In 2024, it sold over 400,000. Folks are now coming in between 14 and 18 times a year, on average. Drake noted that the company’s traditional customer makes less than $100,000 a year — a cohort that has had less wiggle room in their wallets lately as the rising cost of living eats away at their disposable income. So, Chuck E. Cheese has leaned into being “the treat down the street.” “Normally they would go to the beach for the weekend, or they would go to an amusement park for a few days. They’re like, ‘Hey, we can’t get away and spend those bigger amounts of money, but we want to go do something for the kids,’ ” Drake said. “Chuck E. becomes that getaway.”

LOOKING BEYOND:

Jones Walker on Representing Louisiana’s Construction Industry Leaders Pt. II

Beyond Blueprints. Few industries depend on such a vast array of raw materials and high-tech products, or have such complex business relationships among suppliers, designers, vendors, or contractors as the construction industry. Jones Walker’s Construction Team helps clients from across the industry manage all of these moving parts. We understand the complex dynamics between — and the unique priorities of — industry participants and craft solutions that minimize disputes, manage risks, and help keep projects moving from conception to completion. Our clients’ projects are equally diverse and include major infrastructure, manufacturing facilities and plants, hospitals, marine facilities, and airports, as well as the products and services necessary to complete such facilities.

Protecting the Bottom Line When Construction Disputes Turn into Claims Owners occupy a position in construction disputes because they bear the ﬁnancial burden and risks of project failure. Unlike contractors who move on, owners live with the results for years. Claims may come from contractors, subcontractors asserting liens, or third parties alleging injury or property damage, often long after completion.

Chris Cazenave

Private owners enjoy ﬂexibility but face exposure, while public owners operate under strict rules providing protections — in either case, a prompt response is critical. Enforcing notice requirements, preserving documents, and relying on contracts, insurance, and indemnity provisions give owners a defense, while contract enforcement and early strategy protect business interests. Jones Walker is proud to help lead the way for Louisiana’s construction industry as it navigates a complex legal environment.

William H. Hines Managing Partner bhines@joneswalker.com 504.582.8000

201 St. Charles Avenue New Orleans, LA 70170-5100 joneswalker.com

Attorney Advertising. No representation is made that the quality of legal services to be performed is greater than the quality of legal services performed by other attorneys.

Scan the QR code to read the full article.

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TECHNOLOGY

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ 7E

Feeling sick? More people are asking AI what to do BY GIRI VISWANATHAN

The Minnesota Star Tribune (TNS) While traveling to Portland, Peggy Dahl developed a cough so bad it left her gasping for breath after each bout. Far from her doctor, and with a sneaking suspicion of bronchitis, the Minneapolis resident turned to ChatGPT. This wasn’t the first time she had used the artificial intelligence chatbot as a medical sounding board. During a visit to her daughter in Georgia, the chatbot had correctly flagged symptoms of a urinary tract infection. On the Portland trip, ChatGPT ruled out bronchitis and urged her to find a professional. An X-ray at a nearby urgent care soon confirmed a case of pneumonia. Without ChatGPT, Dahl said, she probably would have delayed getting treatment. “It was really good,” Dahl said. “It just talks to you like your best friend.” Like Dahl, 29% of American adults say they use AI tools or chatbots for health information each month — nearly double the number two years ago, according to June survey data from the health research firm KFF. Medical experts see helpful and harmful outcomes from AI in consumer health. A health chatbot could provide clarity and more individualized guidance to patients. However, early research suggests an overreliance on AI could pose privacy risks or prevent people from seeking care when needed. “There’ve been many technological innovations in healthcare in the last few decades, but this is by far the fastest adoption of anything I’ve seen,” said Dr. Andrew Olson, a physician and professor at the University of Minnesota who has studied artificial intelligence in health care. A decade ago, Olson said, patients were searching for symptoms on Google. Now, he sees AI tools loaded on their personal devices in the exam room. Some of the systems are designed to ex-

GETTy IMAGES PHOTO By OLIVIER MORIN/AFP

Medical experts see helpful and harmful outcomes from artificial intelligence in consumer health. A health chatbot could provide clarity and more individualized guidance to patients. However, early research suggests an overreliance on AI could pose privacy risks or prevent people from seeking care when needed. plain diagnoses, evaluate symptoms and inform patients, so they come to appointments with questions. Tech companies are looking to cash in. Earlier this year, OpenAI and Amazon both launched healthfocused chatbot features for uploading medical records, test results and fitness tracker data. In June, Microsoft announced a partnership with the Mayo Clinic to develop its own health-focused AI product. Those AI models can be “empowering” when they distill dense medical data to provide accurate personalized information, triage new injuries and clarify obscure medical terms, said Martin Michalowski, an AI-focused researcher at the University of Minnesota’s School of Nursing.

But he’s wary of the limitations: Models like ChatGPT work by predicting the most likely next words in a sentence based on the texts used to train them, not by holistically generating knowledge about a topic. And he advises patients to be cautious about providing data to a chatbot they might not be comfortable sharing publicly. Besides privacy concerns, the medical results so far have been mixed. One study testing OpenAI’s ChatGPT Health model found it underdiagnosed emergency cases about half the time. Last month, a Florida pastor sued OpenAI, claiming ChatGPT led him to delay care for a critical blood clot in his lungs. Olson shares the concern that patients might blindly trust tools not designed for healthcare. He’s wary of bias in chatbots that agree with

whatever a user suggests, even if it’s not medically accurate. But he’s also optimistic about new uses for AI in the clinic, especially when it can help patients better understand their own health or decide whether to make a long drive to a hospital. “I think we should encourage people to advocate for their own health,” Olson said. “You should look stuff up. And then you should talk about it with your healthcare provider.” When lawyer Marc Berris started feeling brain fog, he thought his clinical depression was getting worse. Swapping antidepressants didn’t change his symptoms, and his primary care doctor was stumped. But an AI tool ﬂagged an important caveat. The 57-year-old from

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suburban Minneapolis had recently seen other specialists who’d prescribed the drug topiramate for weight loss, and they hadn’t warned him that brain fog was a possible side effect. He brought this AI-powered theory to his primary care physician, who helped him swap topiramate for a GLP-1 medication. Soon after, Berris’ brain fog lifted. Since then, he’s used ChatGPT to build workout plans and ﬁnd recipes to manage the nausea that can accompany the drugs. “What I think (AI) is doing is creating more informed patients,” Berris said. “Even if the information that I get through an AI tool is not spot-on, it’s at least getting me to ask the right questions of my providers.” Berris doesn’t think ChatGPT will replace his doctor anytime soon. He still trusts providers with a traditional medical school education over a machine learning model, he said. But other patients are embracing AI to make healthcare decisions. Bryan Hayes, 62, has accumulated a lot of healthcare data over nearly a decade of dabbling in the DIY longevity movement known as biohacking. Before, each test result was locked behind its own patient portal; now he has AI pore over his blood work, MRI results and lung scans together. Hayes used Anthropic’s Claude tool to build his own website, themed after the science fiction novel “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy,” where he could upload and store his results. Hayes feeds in new data, and the website uses a Claude-powered agent named “Eddie” to analyze it and provide recommendations. When he brought his AI-generated health report to a cardiologist to obtain a prescription for an uncommon cholesterol medication, he said the physician was intrigued. “In 30 years, he had not ever seen anything quite like that,” Hayes said.

8E ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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PEOPLE IN BUSINESS Staff report South Louisiana businesses and nonproﬁt groups recently announced the following promotions, new hires and resignations.

New Orleans The New Orleans Foundation for Francophone Cultures, also called the Nous Foundation, hired Etosha McGee as its development and programs ofﬁcer. McGee She will be responsible for overseeing culture programming and other work that promotes the Cajun, Creole and Indigenous communities. McGee is also a co-founder and vice president at McGee and Associates, a consulting ﬁrm focused on revenue cycle management for healthcare providers.

Dr. Gina Wilson joins the Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Covington as a radiologist. Wilson previously spent the last seven years working in Memphis, Wilson Tennessee, at Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women, and before that, she worked at Our Lady of Lourdes Breast Center in Lafayette. Acadian Ambulance promoted Brivan Garcia to operations manager, a role that includes overseeing a team of more than 250 paramedics, emergency medical Garcia technicians and staff, and service in Jefferson, Orleans and St. Ber-

Fool’s Take: Mmm, mmm ... profits? The Campbell’s Co. (Nasdaq: CPB) fell to a 23-year low this spring in response to disappointing ﬁnancial performance and a reduction in projections. But shaping up to Motley it’s be a compelling Fool high-yield dividend stock for ultralong-term value investors. Strained consumer spending is heavily affecting Campbell’s results, especially in salty snacks. But despite promotions and pricing adjustments, the snacks segment may not turn around anytime soon. The good news is that the meals and beverages segment is holding up better; its decent proﬁt margins are driven in part by growth in Rao’s tomato sauce and in soups and broths that are used as cooking ingredients rather than as stand-alone meals. Campbell’s

nard parishes. Garcia previously worked in a number of roles for Acadian over the last 13 years, including as an EMT and paramedic. KID smART, a New Orleans nonproﬁt that focuses on making art accessible to kids, appointed Terrence Sanders-Smith to its board of directors. He is also Sanders-Smith an artist, gallerist and editor-in-chief of Artvoices Magazine, Turnstile Magazine and other publications. Beier Integrated Systems made some recent executive changes, including hiring Kory Beier as president and CEO. Beier previously owned and led Beier Construction, a general contractor, before

is also responding to consumer trends, such as with its new highprotein soups. Campbell’s has said it won’t increase its dividend anytime soon, although it remains committed to the payout. That’s good news, because the stock recently sported a hefty dividend yield of 6.9%. Some investors may prefer to wait to buy Campbell’s until it shows signs that the worst of its slowdown is over. But risk-tolerant investors may want to buy now, given the stock’s compelling valuation — a price-to-earnings ratio of 11 — and dividend income. (The Motley Fool recommends Campbell’s.)

Fool’s School: Debit vs. credit cards If you have debit or credit cards or are considering getting one or the other, read up on their differences and their pros and cons. As you might know, when you pay with a debit card, the payment is taken directly from your

joining Beier Integrated Systems, a marine engineering and manufacturing company. Beier James Jenniskens was promoted to vice president and chief operating officer. He previously Jenniskens worked as the director of projects. Adam Goddard has been hired as vice president of sales, EMEA for Rep Data. He will support the Goddard c o m p a n y ’s growth across Europe as it expands its portfolio of research technology, data qual-

bank account. If the payment exceeds what’s in the account, you could face an overdraft fee. With a credit card, whatever you charge on it is tapping your line of credit. You can pay your monthly credit card bill in full each month (and you should!); if you don’t, interest starts accruing, increasing the balance you owe. Using debit cards doesn’t help you build a credit history or affect your credit score, and they typically offer no rewards. They have no annual fees and no interest rates, but not much fraud protection. They do let you withdraw cash from your bank’s ATMs with no fee. Credit cards, on the other hand, often offer fraud protection, along with rewards in the form of points, miles or cash back. Their interest rates are often quite high — recently averaging nearly 24%, per LendingTree.com — but they generally offer strong fraud protection. Some good credit cards charge annual fees, and you may need a

ity and expert services. retail operations, marketing Goddard most recently and strategic growth in the served as head of growth, credit union industry. EMEA at Walr. He previously worked for Kinetic Credit Union and LouBaton Rouge isiana Federal Credit Union. Jim Knipe has opened a new law ﬁrm named Knipe Law Lake Charles Firm with its Lake Charles Memorial office in Ba- Health System hired Ryan Kilton Rouge. lebrew to its Knipe has pediatric inmore than tensive care 20 years of unit. trial and He recentcourtroom ly completed experience, his pediatric Knipe practicing residency criminal defense and per- Killebrew at Baylor College of sonal injury. Medicine-San Antonio, and Ross Talbert training at the University of has joined Tennessee Health Science Campus Fed- Center and the University of eral Credit Texas Health Science Center. Union as chief experi- Do you have personnel ence officer. changes to share or other Talbert has ideas for our business Talbert more than 17 coverage? Drop us a line years of leadership experi- at biztips@theadvocate. ence in member experience, com.

high credit score to qualify for them. (Note that how you use your credit card(s) can boost or lower that credit score; paying bills on time, for example, can beef up your score.) Some credit cards provide additional warranties or insurance on items you buy beyond what the manufacturer or retailer offers. If you’re concluding that credit cards are the way to go, remember that if they’re not used responsibly, they can leave you deep in debt — and can hurt your credit score, affecting your ﬁnances in other ways. If you’re disciplined, credit cards do offer some compelling upsides. For example, with cards that offer cash back, it’s like getting a small discount on almost everything you buy. To learn more about credit cards, visit the “Personal Finance” nook at fool.com.

Ask the Fool: Enterprise value What does “enterprise value” refer to?

— G.R., Greenville, South Carolina It’s one way to measure a company’s worth. You might think that a company’s market capitalization reﬂects its total value, as it’s the value of all outstanding shares. But what if its market cap is, say, $100 billion, but it’s also carrying $20 billion in debt? If you wanted to buy the whole company, you’d be taking on a lot of debt. The “enterprise value” metric attempts to offer a clearer valuation of the company. It starts with market capitalization, adds preferred equity and then adjusts for total debt relative to cash and cash equivalents. The result is what buying the whole company would actually cost you. On top of the $100 billion you’d need to acquire all common shares, plus other equity, you’d also be on the hook for its $20 billion in debt, so its enterprise value would be at least $120 billion. If it had $5 billion in cash, that could drop what you’d need to $115 billion.

The biggest stories in business, delivered to you every weekday

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ 9E

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ONE BIG QUESTION

What nonprofit do you support and why? BY GRACE MAYER

Staff writer

Company executives are often vocal about the corporate milestones they’ve achieved — from reaching higher revenue figures, growing their employee headcount and landing new clients or projects to investing in major expansions. They’re typically more circumspect about discussing the charitable causes and nonprofit organizations they support through financial contributions and volunteer hours — behind-the-scenes work that plays a big role in shaping and reflecting a company’s culture and mission. For this month’s One Big Question feature, we asked business leaders from across south Louisiana: What nonprofit organization or cause does your company support and why? Their answers underscored their commitments to the many worthy FILE PHOTO By JOHN McCUSKER organizations doing difficult and Periodically on Sundays, New Orleans artist and musician Nesby Phips has been hosting Reset at Sunset often unglamorous work, and events at Breakwater Park on the lakefront. The focus is on Black mental health, bringing people together to served as a reminder of the valuable role corporate support can watch the sunset, eat, dance and relax, before the start of the week. play in our communities. space to local non- effort as a tremendous way for our The organization also offers Responses have been edited for classes that help students prepare length and clarity. profits around the employees to engage with and give for ACT and SAT tests. country, selected back to their local communities. ANGELICA RIVERA As a board member for the orby the local execuCEO, president and co-founder, ganization, I get to see the numtives working out JARRETT COHEN Colmex Construction, New Orleans of our 200 offices CEO, chief investment officer ber of students we impact each around the country. and founder, JECohen & Co., As a Latina-founded company, I year. There are many kids who go New Orleans Our company’s like to focus my company’s non- through the program who go on to Reilly corporate office profit efforts on graduate from high school and get Our philanthropy at JECohen has also selects one nationwide non- evolved over the years, and lately lifting the Latino into good colleges. We also support YouthForce profit to support each year, which I’ve focused on donating to indicommunity up. We donate to Ecco NOLA, which has an internship in the past has included Dolly Parviduals and comCommunity Cen- program for rising high school se- ton’s Imagination Library and the munity events. Make-A-Wish Foundation. One of the local ter, a nonprofit niors. This year, our company picked events we donate For the last two years, Colmex that supports high to is called Reset at schoolers, first- Construction has hosted interns Ronald McDonald House, which Sunset, led by Nesgeneration college through the program. One of our is receiving free ad space through Rivera students, their par- goals is to expose them to career our company, and several of our by Phips, a local paths in the construction industry. 4,000 employees are participating rapper and artist. ents and immigrants. in volunteer opportunities through Cohen This is a commuThe nonprofit specifically offers the nonprofit’s local operations. programs that help high school- SEAN REILLY nity wellness event Our goal is to help these nonprof- Phips hosts at Lake Pontchartrain ers navigate and apply for college, CEO and president, Lamar scholarships and financial aid, Advertising, Baton Rouge its advertise their initiatives and where anybody in the community which can be especially challengEach year, our company gives missions so they can attract vol- can gather for a free picnic, meet ing for some students due to their away tens of millions of dollars’ unteers, personnel and donations. other people in the community and worth of free advertising billboard We also see this companywide listen to music. immigration status.

For the last two years, he’s hosted the event around six times each year. He creates the vibe, organizes it, sets the date, and he also pays for and provides food from a local chef and security, because the event has grown to include hundreds of attendees. The goal is to promote happiness and wellness. New Orleans is called the Big Easy, but it’s not the easiest place to live, when you think about the infrastructure, the wages, all these things that compound on top of people’s lives. You need to reset with friends and loved ones.

JOHN WOODARD

Vice president, Stirling Properties, Covington

We’ve had a long relationship with Ochsner Health and their leadership, and they’ve consistently been an organization we donate to each year. This year, we’ve committed $50,000 to Ochsner’s annual Moonlight & MiraWoodard cles Gala, which is on par with how much we typically donate to that event each year. We also donate to a number of other health care causes, including the American Cancer Society and Hogs for the Cause, an annual barbecue and music festival that raises money for kids who have pediatric brain cancer. We focus a lot of our giving on these types of causes because we have many employees and family members who have been helped by the work that these nonproﬁts do. Our donations also extend across all the markets we work in. Last year, we donated over $275,000 across all our markets, which includes Mississippi, Louisiana, Georgia and Florida. This year we’re on track to donate $125,000 in stewardship giving for this year. Email Grace Mayer at grace. mayer@theadvocate.com.

10E ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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Why Louisiana? The Risk and Reward Behind a $32 Billion Data Center Push

In less than 18 months, Louisiana has transformed from virtually no hyperscale data center presence to hosting three of the largest projects in the country, led by major digital leaders. A $10 billion campus in Richland Parish,1 a $12 billion investment across Caddo and Bossier Parishes,2 and a $10 billion River Bend facility in West Feliciana Parish1 represent a combined $32 billion commitment that places Louisiana at the center of the national data center boom. Construction is now underway. Developers chose Louisiana for good reasons. The state’s industrial

With conﬁrmed projects now spread across the northwest, northeast

contractors have spent decades building reﬁneries, chemical

and southeast of the state, underwriters are watching how that

plants and LNG facilities — complex, high-stakes work at scale.

geographic concentration accumulates across their books.

This expertise transfers directly to data center construction, and

Power and water draw are legitimate community concerns. Data

it’s a meaningful edge. Louisiana contractors are already building

centers consume both at a scale that strains local grids and utility

data centers across the country because they’re among the best

capacity. Some Louisiana power companies are already planning

at this type of work. Siting a project in the state keeps that talent

upgrades to support the new demand. Longer term, on-site

close, resulting in faster project delivery and tighter cost control.

generation, including small modular reactors, may reduce grid

Site selection also reﬂects a clear-eyed insurance calculation. Two of the three major projects sit in North Louisiana, near the Arkansas border. Locating away from the Gulf Coast hurricane corridor materially changes the underwriting math.

dependency for future builds. These aren’t unsolvable problems. But they need to be part of the project plan from day one.

Building success: What it takes to get it right Done right, projects of this scale bring lasting returns. The tax revenue will ﬂow into Louisiana communities over decades, into

“

These facilities are in North Louisiana because it’s more affordable to secure the coverage and limits required — it’s an insurance decision as much as a location one.

”

Troy Wagener, Area Executive Vice President, Gallagher

education, infrastructure and economic development, well beyond what direct employment from a data center operation alone would deliver. Louisiana moved early in this cycle and secured a strong position. Getting that right starts before ﬁnancing closes, with construction risk, supply chain exposures, power strategy and operational coverage all aligned from day one. That includes parametric triggers for business interruption — coverage that activates without a

The risk picture in Louisiana

physical loss — which matters when a grid failure or supply chain

Louisiana’s broader property and casualty market, by Wagener’s

delay can cost millions before a single claim is ﬁled.

current read, is stable. The insurance market is absorbing an

Gallagher’s Data Center Solutions team works with developers,

unprecedented volume of high-limit construction requests as data

contractors and operators across the full project lifecycle. To

center builds accelerate nationwide. Excess liability and commercial

connect with our Louisiana team, visit AJG.com/louisiana.

automobile liability for contractor ﬂeets — already under pressure in large construction programs — face genuine capacity constraints when a single site is worth $10 billion to $15 billion. In Louisiana speciﬁcally, those pressures are sharper: commercial automobile liability rates for construction rank among the highest in the country, and excess liability capacity for large industrial programs is genuinely constrained. That friction shows up in pricing, deductibles and what carriers will actually put on the table.

Troy Wagener

Area Executive Vice President

Scan the code to connect with us.

Climate perils compound that scrutiny. North Louisiana avoids the worst of the Gulf Coast hurricane corridor, but major storms still push wind and rain well inland. Inland ﬂooding and severe convective storms are live perils across all three project locations.

1“Louisiana’s Growing Data Center Pipeline,” BIZ Magazine, 3 Mar 2026. 2“Amazon Selects Louisiana for $12 Billion Data Center Campuses in Major U.S. Expansion,” Louisiana Economic Development, 23 Feb 2026.

AJG.com/Louisiana | The Gallagher Way. Since 1927.

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ 1F

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2F ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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APARTMENT 2 Bedroom, Cental A/H, offstreet parking $1200/month 1615 N. Derbigny. Section 8 OK. 504-810-7020 APARTMENT 5708-B Tullis Dr, Westbank, 4BR/2BA. Stove, Refrigerator, Utilities, w/d Hookup, Central A/C, OffStreet Parking, Near Bus, $1800; 504-4543847 Ofﬁce, 504-512-2814 MP. APARTMENT Fabulous French Quarter Furnished 1BR $1625. INCLUDING UTILITIES/WIFI. Brand new Bath & Kitchen (Custom Cabinets, SS Appliances). 504-388-2880 APARTMENT N.O. EAST * LITTLE WOODS SPECIAL 7819 SANDS STREET * 3 BD/2 BA Central A & H * Fenced Backyard Sec 8 Welcome. No Deposit. $1,200 504-241-6189 * 504-430-1162

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APARTMENT WESTBANK * $1300/Mo. 2 Bedrooms, 2 Baths, 4-Car Garage/Workshop. Pets OK. 504-913-4263

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APARTMENT Efﬁciency #E $800. 4327 & 4329 Hollygrove Street: 1 Bedroom. Water Pd $900. 504-313-2192

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APARTMENT WESTBANK * 3 Bedrooms /2.5 Baths, Double Garage, Private Yard. $1,800/Mo. 504-913-4263 GENTILLY 2544 ALLEN TOUSSAINT BLVD. NEWLY RENOVATED!!! 1-2 Bdrm Apts * From $800/mo Parking * Sec Gate 504-209-8054 * 504-454-1333

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jobs.nola.com Search Place Onlines at jobs.nola.com • Call Us Monday - Friday 8AM 8AM - 5PM at at (504) Search &&Place AdsAds Online at classiﬁeds.theneworleansadvocate.com • Call Us Monday - Friday - 5PM (504) 636-7435 636-7435

Announcements Anyone knowing or having information regarding the whereabouts of JERMAINE BRISCOE, any of his relatives, friends, heirs, successors, administrators or assigns as well as his surviving spouse, if any, and his heirs, successors, administrators or assigns, if any, please contact Curator Ad Hoc, Shantell Payton, attorney at the Payton Hodges Law Firm, 2237 N. Hullen St., Suite 202, Metairie, LA 70001at (504) 399-1717 or payton@paytonhodgeslaw.com 198433-Aug 22-24, 3t $231.46 Anyone knowing or having information regarding the whereabouts of SHARON AGUILLARD BRISCOE, any of her relatives, friends, heirs, successors, administrators or assigns as well as her surviving spouse, if any, and her heirs, successors, administrators or assigns, if any, please contact Curator Ad Hoc, Shantell Payton, attorney at the Payton Hodges Law Firm, 2237 N. Hullen St., Suite 202, Metairie, LA 70001at (504) 399-1717 or payton@paytonhodgeslaw.com 198431-Aug 22-24, 3t $234.70

Anyone knowing the whereabouts of any person with an interest in Oak Tree Chiropractic, LLC, its members, agents or assigns, please contact James C. Raff at (504) 8281010. Property rights are involved in the 24th Judicial District Court, Jefferson Parish, case no. 877-663. 198443-Aug 22-24, 3t $123.70

Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Aulonka Nixon Davis and/or Donald J. Davis, Sr. please contact Attorney Keith A. Doley at 504-9437071. 198315-Aug 22-24, 3t $77.50 Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Brittani Simms, registered agent of RMGD, L.L.C. please contact Attorney Edwin Lombard at 504-9437071. 198441-Aug 22-24, 3t $73.30

ENGINEERING Process Engineer sought by Nucor Steel Louisiana LLC for the Convent lo‐ cation. Candidate must have a Bach's or foreign equiv deg in Chemical or En‐ ergy Engg & 3 yrs of exp in dsgng, ana‐ lyzing, & optimizing efficient chemical processes for combustible & hydro‐ gen-rich gas streams utilizing energy, kinetics, & heat transfer principles. Must have exp in: Analyzing hydrogenrich gas systems & dvlpg thermody‐ namic simulations to establish equilib‐ rium variances for decarbonization strategies. Dvlpg digital twin models of Tenova HYL technology for Direct Re‐ duction Iron (DRI) making processes utilizing Aspen Plus, Aspen HYSYS, & ProMax. Leading systematic identifica‐ tion of HAZOP risks associated w/ methane reformers, HYL reduction re‐ actors, gas handling systems, CO/H cir‐ cuits, pressure vessels, heaters, & aux‐ iliary systems. Reviewing & ensuring compliance of complex chemical con‐ ditions for critical thermal eqpmt, pres‐ sure vessels, fire systems, & gas han‐ dling in accordance w/ int'l codes/standards ASME, TEMA, & API. Up to 20% int'l & domestic travel reqd for meetings, trainings, & consulta‐ tions w/ other divisions/factories. Re‐ spond to: https://jobs.nucor.com/ or send resume to Attn: HR, 9101 Louisiana Hwy 3125, Convent, LA 70723.

Merchandise CEMETERY PLOTS Westlawn Cemetery Mausoleum, in the Chapel. Corr IV, Tier A, holds 6 interments $17,500. 504-259-0505 FARM EQUIPMENT For Sale $2300 ﬁrm: 7ft Heavy Duty Disk, hardly used. Bought at Tractor Supply 985 316-6755.

JOEL CATERING & SPECIAL EVENTS, LLC d/b/a JOEL CATERING & SPECIAL EVENTS is applying to the Ofﬁce of Alcohol and Tobacco Control of the State of Louisiana for a Class ACaterer Independent Concessionaire permit to sell beverages of high and low alcohol content at the following address: 1 Palm Drive New Orleans, LA 70124 JOEL CATERING & SPECIAL EVENTS, LLC JOEL CATERING & SPECIAL EVENTS Members/Manager: Joel Dondis 198325 Aug. 23 1t $99.22 L5YTCKAV8S1120256 ZNEN is stored at 3505 Berwick St, Jefferson, LA, 70121. If all current charges are not paid and vehicle claimed by the owner by 9/11/2026 a Permit to Sell may be obtained. 198429-Aug 22-23, 2t $76.80

Employment BUSINESS OPERATIONS

Positions Available: * Accounting * Bookkeeper * Account Coordinator * Finance * Payroll Officer * Sales Representatives * Customer Service * Business Admin Representative As part of our ongoing expansion, we are seeking part-time, work-fromhome candidates. The position offers a monthly salary of $1,300, in addition to benefits, and requires minimal time commitment. The role involves just 2-3 hours of internet access per week. Requirements: * Must be computer literate * Must have 2-3 hours of internet access per week * Must be efficient and dedicated Interested candidates may reach out via email at michelle.appliedit@gmail.com for further information

E-EDITION

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Pets

Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Jennifer R. Timphony please contact Attorney Marie A. Bookman at (504) 635-0070. 198314-Aug 22-24, 3t $69.10

Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Shalom Weinberger and Georgetown Associates Member, LLC, please contact Attorney Branden Villavaso at 631 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70130, (504) 812-1762. 198440-Aug 22-24, 3t $92.20

The digital edition of today’s paper is always at your ﬁnger tips with

in your web browser by visiting NOLA.com and clicking E-EDITION

CATS RAGAMUFFIN & RAGDOLL KITTENS www.CatsByFrancy.com/kittens $1500up! Reg. Shots & Guaranty 337-230-3150 CATS Young Male Cat, Gray Colors, Have too many cats, Looking for another home for him. Please call 504-861-9617 ($50) DOGS AKC Standard Poodles. Black & Parti black & white. Ready to Go. Utd on all shots & worming. Text 228-669-8581 or 228-669-2377. Shih tzu puppies born 7/4 2026 Register shih tzu puppies girls and boys in Robert La $400.00 985-3503343

Automotive WANT TO BUY Cars, Trucks & Camper Trailers. Running or Not in any cond, with or w/out title. 504-508-0087

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Additional jobless pay set to begin

ELEC TION 2020 PRESIDENT

THE RACE IS ON

Unemployed to get $600 more per week from stimulus package BY SAM KARLIN

COVID-19 CORONAVIRUS: THE LATEST

CASES IN LA.

652 deaths

17 ,030 positive cases INSIDE ä Mnuchin:

Direct deposits to start next week, 2A ä La. nursing home deaths up to 130, 5A ä More testing options available in N.O., 1B

Staff writer

Louisiana is set to start doling out supercharged unemployment benefits of $600 more a week on Monday, providing the first wave of relief to a staggering number of residents seeking aid as the coronavirus rocks the state’s economy. But as benefits begin flowing and officials project no part of Louisiana is on track to run out of hospital beds or ventilators in the coming 10 days, Gov. John Bel Edwards warned Wednesday it will be a long time before things return to normal. Until there is a vaccine and medication that can treat the virus — prospects that are months or longer away — Edwards said people will likely not see “life as you knew it before COVID-19.” Although at some point restrictions will be loosened, it remains unclear exactly what that will look like, Edwards said. The state will rely heavily on the federal government and will need far more testing, along with contact tracing and isolation of patients who later test positive, he said. “I promise you no matter what the timeline looks like, it’s going to be quicker if everyone follows the stay-at-home order,” the governor said. In the meantime, as the order is set to keep thousands of businesses closed until at least April 30, the Louisiana Workforce Commission will start paying out the extra $600 per week benefit to unemployed Louisiana

ä See JOBLESS, page 6A

Superintendents want schools to stay closed BY WILL SENTELL Staff writer

NOLA.COM/SUBSCRIBE

APRIL 9, 2020

7th year, No. 241

Democratic presidential candidate former Vice President Joe Biden speaks during a March campaign rally in Detroit.

Louisiana public school superintendents Wednesday asked Gov. John Bel Edwards to extend his schools closure order through the end of the academic year because of the coronavirus. The request significantly boosts chances that classrooms will remain locked for nearly 720,000 public school students

and that the school year will have effectively ended for many students on March 13. “By not having students return to school facilities this school year combined with social distancing intervention there could be lessening or even prevention of further community spread of the virus,” superintendents said in their request to the governor.

ä See SCHOOLS, page 6A

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTOS

President Donald Trump arrives to speak at a January rally in Washington, D.C.

Sanders drops out, leaving former Vice President Biden the presumptive Democratic challenger to Trump BY WILL WEISSERT

LEGAL Paralegal, defense litigation, billing experience required. Please email resumes to mcurrault@deutschkerrigan.com

THURSDAY

Associated Press

WASHINGTON — Sen. Bernie Sanders ended his presidential bid on Wednesday, making Joe Biden the presumptive Democratic nominee to challenge President Donald Trump in a general election campaign that will be waged against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic. Sanders initially ex- Sanders ceeded sky-high expectations about his ability to re-create the magic of his 2016 presidential bid and even overcame a heart attack in October. But he couldn’t convert unwavering support from progressives into a viable path to the nomination, with “electability” fears fueled by questions about whether his democratic socialist ide-

ology would be palatable to general election voters. “The path toward victory is virtually impossible,” Sanders told supporters Wednesday. “If I believed we had a feasible path to the nomination, I would certainly continue the campaign, but it’s just not there.” He called Biden a “very decent man” but didn’t offer an explicit endorsement of the former vice president. Sanders said his name would remain on the ballot in states that have not yet held primaries so he can gain more delegates and “exert signiﬁcant influence” on the Democratic platform. Biden, who is backed by much of the party’s establishment, told supporters at a virtual fundraiser that he had a “short conversation” with Sanders on Wednesday. “He didn’t just run a political campaign. He created a movement,” Biden said. “That’s a good thing for our na-

tion and our future. His campaign has ended, but I know his leadership will continue.” Trump sought to foment the tension among Democrats by tweeting Wednesday that the party stacked the race against Sanders. The president said the senator’s supporters “should come to the Republican Party.” Sanders began his latest White House bid facing questions about whether he could win back the supporters who chose him four years ago as an insurgent alternative to Hillary Clinton. Despite winning 22 states in 2016, there were no guarantees he’d be a major presidential contender this cycle. But Sanders used strong polling and solid fundraising — collected almost entirely from small donations made online — to quiet early doubters. Like the ﬁrst time, he attracted widespread

ä See RACE, page 4A

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ 3F

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Public Notices Bids/Proposals

PUBLIC NOTICE --The Louisiana Ofﬁce of State Parks is requesting proposals for a PublicPrivate Partnership pro‐ ject to design, construct, and operate a high-qual‐ ity recreational vehicle campground and related amenities. For more in‐ formation go to opportu‐ nitiesinlouisiana.com. 192988-jul 2-aug 31-t

Reporting you can trust on stories that matter

Public Notices Bids/Proposals

PUBLIC NOTICE --The Lowlander Center (https://www.lowland ercenter.org/) is an‐ nouncing a Request for Proposals (RFP) due Monday, August 31, to deconstruct spoil banks for a Canal Spoil Re‐ placement (Backfilling) Project. Please email admin@lowlandercenter. org with any questions by Tuesday, August 11. All questions and an‐ swers will be posted on the Lowlander Center canal backfilling project page (https://www.low landercenter.org/canalbackfilling) by Tuesday, August 18. Please see the project page for RFP, per‐ mits, plat maps, back‐ ground information about the project, and an informational slidedeck. This project is partially funded by the National Oceanic and Atmos‐ pheric Administration (NOAA), through a grant agreement with the Na‐ tional Fish and Wildlife Foundation, grant award number: NA23NOS4730219. The views and conclusions contained in this docu‐ ment are those of the au‐ thors and should not be interpreted as represent‐ ing the opinions or poli‐ cies of the U.S. Govern‐ ment or the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and its funding sources. Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute their endorsement by the U.S. Government, or the Na‐ tional Fish and Wildlife Foundation or its funding sources. 196005-aug 1-31-31t $$4,838.79

Legal Notices

Legal Notices Legal Notices y the zoom link below. The 2026-27 Budget will be approved at the meeting. The Budget is available for viewing in the Busi‐ ness Ofﬁce Monday- Fri‐ day 9a.m. to 3p.m. or you can contact the ofﬁce at 504-373-6228 Ext 7. Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom. us/j/86725218911? pwd=AczazANrSMzvT26 Eo3m1MecDbfG6Ct.1 Meeting ID: 867 2521 8911 Passcode: UFJ0tC 197271-aug 13-27-15t $180.10

Public Notices Meet/Hear/Min

PUBLIC NOTICE --ReNEW-Reinventing Edu‐ cation will introduce the 2026-27 budget and hold its ﬁrst public hearing on the 2026-27 budget on May 14, 2026 at 5:30 pm at Edgar P Harney Build‐ ing located at 2503 Wil‐ low St., New Orleans, LA 70113 (LA R.S. 39:1307). ReNEW-Reinventing Edu‐ cation is the charter school management or‐ ganization operating ReNEW Laurel Elemen‐ tary, ReNEW Dolores T. Aaron Elementary, ReNEW Schaumburg Ele‐ mentary, and ReNEW Moton Lakefront Elemen‐ tary. A physical copy of the 2026-2027 budget is available at 10001 Lake Forest Blvd., Suite 710, New Orleans, LA 70127. 186911-may 9-aug 27 $956

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PUBLIC NOTICE --Notice to be posted:

SUBSCRIBE TODAY

Community Leaders Ad‐ vocating Student Suc‐ cess Inc./ Fannie C. Williams Charter School Budget Meeting will be held on Thursday August 27, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the school Library, Ad‐ dress: 11755 Dwyer Road New Orleans, LA 70128. Also, you can attend via h li k b l h

NOLA.COM/SUBSCRIBE

Legal Notices

UNITED STATES BANKRUPTCY COURT EASTERN DISTRICT OF LOUISIANA IN RE:

§ § Case No. 26-10678 CROSBY MARINE § SECTION: A 1 § TRANSPORTATION, LLC § Chapter 11 Debtors. § Complex Case § ________________________________________________________________ NOTICE OF BAR DATE FOR FILING PROOFS OF CLAIM TO ASSERT A MARITIME LIEN NOTICE: Your rights may be affected. You should read these papers carefully and discuss them with your attorney, if you have one in this bankruptcy case. If you do not have an attorney, you may wish to consult one. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE on March 23, 2026 (“Original Petition Date”), Crosby Marine Transportation, LLC (“Transportation”), Crosby Tugs, LLC (“Tugs”), Crosby Dredging, LLC (“Dredging”), and Bertucci Contracting Company, L.L.C. (“Bertucci” and collectively, “Original Debtors”), as Debtors in Possession, each filed for relief under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code thereby commencing these cases (the “Chapter 11 Case(s)”). PLEASE TAKE NOTICE on July 16, 2026, (“Additional Debtor Petition Date”), Crosby Inshore Marine Services, LLC, Crosby Marine Repair, L.L.C., Crosby Offshore Marine Service, LLC, Kurt Crosby, LLC, Tala Marine, LLC, Webb Crosby, LLC, Crosby Inland Marine, LLC, Crosby Real Estate, LLC, Tala Real Estate, LLC, and Crosby Enterprises, L.L.C. (the “Additional Debtors” and together with the Original Debtors, the “Debtors”), as Debtors in Possession also filed for relief under chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code, commencing the Additional Debtors’ chapter 11 cases. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE on August 5, 2026, (“Additional Debtor Petition Date”), Susan Marie, LLC; Vinton Crosby, LLC; Tara Crosby, LLC; and Crosby & Son Towing, LLC (the “Additional Debtors” and together with the Original Debtors, the “Debtors”), as Debtors in Possession also filed for relief under chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code, commencing the Additional Debtors’ chapter 11 cases. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE the Court previously set July 30, 2026, (the “Original Bar Date”) as the deadline for any person or entity that holds a claim against the Original Debtors as of the Petition Date (referred to as “Creditor” or “Creditors”) to file a Proof of Claim as modified by the Order establishing the Original Bar Date. The Original Bar Date applies only to those Creditors who are not listed in the Original Debtors’ Schedules, unless such Creditor asserts a lien (other than preferred ship mortgage) under the Commercial Instrument and Maritime Lien Act (46 U.S.C. §§ 13101–13143 (“CIMLA”) against an asset owned by an Original Debtor, or whose claim is scheduled as contingent, disputed,

Legal Notices

or unliquidated. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Court has set August 31, 2026 (the “Additional Bar Date”) as the deadline for any person or entity that asserts a lien (a “Maritime Lien”) (other than preferred ship mortgage) under the Commercial Instrument and Maritime Lien Act (46 U.S.C. §§ 13101–13143 (“CIMLA”) against a vessel owned by an Additional Debtor as of the Petition Date (referred to as “Creditor” or “Creditors”) to file a Proof of Claim as modified by the Order establishing the Additional Bar Date. The Additional Bar Date applies only to those Creditors who assert a Maritime Lien against an Additional Debtor’s vessel. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that if you previously filed a proof of claim against an Original Debtor and are now asserting a lien against an Additional Debtor’s vessel, you must file an additional proof of claim and identify the information above. Further information, including how to file a Proof of Claim and all forms and attachments, is available at https://cases.stretto.com/ crosby/file-a-claim/. The website also contains a copy of the Order approving this Notice. IF YOU ARE NOT ASSERTING A MARITIME LIEN, THIS NOTICE DOES NOT APPLY TO YOU. _____________________________ The Court entered an Order directing joint administration of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy case of Crosby Marine Transportation, LLC [No. 2610678], as lead case, with the Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases of (i) Crosby Tugs, L.L.C. [No. 26-10679], (ii) Crosby Dredging, LLC [No. 26-10678], and (iii) Bertucci Contracting Company, L.L.C. [No. 26-10681], on March 24, 2026, [No. 26-10678, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-10679, ECF Doc. 4; No. 26-10680, ECF Doc. 4; No. 26-10681, ECF Doc. 4]. The Court entered an Order directing joint administration of the Chapter 11 bankruptcy case of Crosby Marine Transportation, LLC [No. 26-10678], as lead case, with the Chapter 11 bankruptcy cases of (i) Crosby Inshore Marine Service, L.L.C. [No. 26-11734], (ii) Crosby Marine Repair, L.L.C. [No. 26-11735], (iii) Crosby Offshore Marine Service, L.L.C. [No. 26-11736], (iv) Kurt Crosby, L.L.C. [No. 26-11737], (v) Tala Marine, L.L.C. [No. 26-11738], (vi) Webb Crosby, L.L.C. [No. 26-11739], (vii) Crosby Inland Marine, LLC [No. 26-11740], (viii) Crosby Real Estate, LLC [No. 26-11741], (ix) Tala Real Estate, LLC [No. 26-11742], and (x) Crosby Enterprises, L.L.C. [No. 2611743], on July 21, 2026. [No. 26-10678, ECF Doc. 663; No. 26-11734, ECF Doc. 10; No. 26-11735, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-11736, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-11737, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-11738, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-11739, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-11740, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-11741, ECF Doc. 9; No. 2611742, ECF Doc. 9; No. 26-11743, ECF Doc. 9].

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4F ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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Chef cooks with intention PAGE 3

DISCOVERy | INNOVATION | LIVING WELL

HEALTH

LOUISIANA

N O L A.C O M & T H E A D V O C AT E.C O M

S U N D AY, AU g U S t 23, 2026

Molly Kimball 1 1N

A1C test tells us more than glucose level Dr. Curtis Chastain, a boardcertiﬁed internist practicing at FMOL Health in Baton Rouge, joins this occasional series of columns from Louisiana doctors sharing topics for patients of all ages, including prevention, wellness tips and everyday strategies to help people stay healthy.

STAFF PHOTO By LESLIE WESTBROOK

Stella Furby, right, and her mother, Erin, talk about a dress that would help conceal Stella’s differing shoulder heights caused by spinal curvature. The walker Stella used during recovery from the spinal fusion surgery she had last year stands nearby.

ON THE ROAD TO HEALING

How one La. teenager decided to have surgery for a curved spine — and what happened next BY MARGARET DELANEY

Staff writer

Stella Furby’s back pains and aches started when she was 13. In her annual checkup before another season of school sports began, her primary physician in Lafayette noticed curves in her back and ordered Xrays immediately. Her long limbs made her a great swimmer, according to her mom, Erin Furby. “I just thought it was swimming aches and pains,” her mom said. “I just thought her body was tired from all the swim meets. I feel terrible that we didn’t notice it.” At that point, when Stella bent over, there was already a visible hump on her back. When she sat up straight, as much as she

was able, her shoulders settled at different heights. The scans of her spine showed a complete curve from the neck down, an Scurve. Scoliosis is diagnosed if there is greater than a 10-degree curve of the spine in the coronal plane, or the perspective when facing another person or patient head on. Stella’s spine curved from 18 degrees to the right at the top of her spine, 43 degrees to the left at the center of her spine and 52 degrees to the right at the bottom of her spine. “We don’t really know why this occurs,” said Dr. Patrick Farmer, a pediatric orthopedic surgeon at Ochsner Health and Stella’s doctor.

ä See SPINE, page 2X

PROVIDED PHOTO

Stella Furby, center, recovers in the hospital after her spinal fusion surgery in 2025. Her mother, Erin, is behind her.

A patient came in for his annual checkup feeling ﬁne. No complaints. No symptoms. Just the kind of man who shows up every year because he knows he should. DR. His fasting gluCURTIS CHASTAIN cose came back at 114. That’s not DOCTOR SAyS normal, but it’s not diabetic either. It falls in that uncomfortable middle ground where many people get mislabeled and leave the ofﬁce with a diagnosis they may not actually have. So I ordered a different test, one most people have heard of but few truly understand: the hemoglobin A1C. Here’s the part that matters. Your red blood cells live for about 120 days, and sugar in your bloodstream attaches to their surface as they circulate. The more sugar present, the more sugar attaches. An A1C test measures exactly that — how much sugar has been riding along on your red blood cells over the past four months. Think of it like investing. If a stock is trading at $35 today, is that a good price? You have no idea without context. It could be up from $20 last month, or down from $60. A smart investor doesn’t make decisions based on a single day’s price. They look at the 90-day trailing average — the trend, not the snapshot. That’s exactly what an A1C does for your blood sugar. A single fasting glucose reading is one moment in time. It’s affected by many variables like stress, poor sleep, or even the coffee you had on the way to the lab. It tells you what your blood sugar was doing at 7:42 on a Tuesday morning. Nothing more. The A1C tells you what your blood sugar has been doing for the past four months. You cannot cheat it with one good morning. You cannot fool it by skipping breakfast. It sees through all of it. My patient’s A1C came back at 5.4. That’s completely normal. The elevated fasting glucose was simply noise, not disease. He didn’t have diabetes. He didn’t have prediabetes. He had one borderline number

ä See DOCTOR, page 2X

Louisiana strong. Ochsner proud. ochsner.org Bo and Brett Bordelon | Ochsner Patients

2X ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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Exercise, good music, conversation set healthy example Group at Metairie yMCA aims to stay ‘Fit 4 Life’

BY MARGARET DeLANEY Staff writer

Three mornings a week, eight exercisers lay out black yoga mats in a circle in a mirrored exercise room at the YMCA in Metairie. They place long-backed chairs at their individual setups along with tension bands that will go around their ankles, knees and thighs throughout a 50-minute workout class. Stretches begin promptly at 6:30 a.m. with Patt Smith 73, giving instruction over chatter about many things: the parking woes at doctors’ ofﬁces. A particularly harrowing display at church the previous Sunday in which a churchgoer fainted and got blood on the altar’s newly-installed carpet. The latest New York Times Wordle solutions. And a long, thoughtful consideration about the right word for someone who speaks multiple languages. It’s a polyglot, said Linda Walker, solving it for the group. “The boys like to chat all the way through class,” said Walker, 72. “It helps us get through it.” Walker taught high school science for 27 years in Jefferson and St. Charles parishes. In her retirement, she worked in the advocacy center for nursing homes in New Orleans. Now she’s a member of three gyms in the city and never misses a workout day. “I do something every day,” Walker said. “I like the workout. I like the people.” The need to continuously exercise as the body ages is no myth. Some form, any form, of daily movement is key to staving off both physical and mental issues

STAFF PHOTO By MARGARET DeLANEy

Linda Walker stretches using a chair in a 6:30 a.m. Fit 4 Life class at the yMCA in Metairie. that come with getting older. “Study after study after study shows that humans need to be active,” said Dr. Andrew Gottschalk, a primary care sports medicine physician at Ochsner Andrews Sports Medicine Institute. “At what age does that go away? It doesn’t.” Physical and strength decline naturally starts around age 35, but working out at any age slows this loss. Data shows that adults doubling or tripling moderate exercise recommendations, between 300 to 599 minutes weekly, lowers mortality risk by 26% to 31%, according to a 2024 study in the

American Medical Association. This class at the Y is just one example of how to do that. Building and maintaining muscle mass helps the body continue to move. Learning knew workout skills activates the brain and staves off dementia. Stretching and holding poses increases and sustains balance. “It also feels good,” Gottschalk said. “There is this positive feedback loop where we’re doing the body good. We’re increasing longevity, and not just how long you live, but the quality of that life.” While listening to The Beatles, Smith walks the Fit 4 Life class through toe-taps from left to right,

years,” one class-goer said. “That’s not nearly as long as some others here.” Carl Batura once led the class himself from 1989 to 2000 at the original YMCA location behind East Jefferson Hospital. When the Y didn’t have a home for a few years, Carl Baturataught the class at Lafreniere Park in Metairie. “I’d bring my boombox. There was mostly men in the class then, but it was the same kind of class,” Batura said. “(Patt’s) a good instructor, takes a lot of time to show new people how it goes.” He just completed renovation of an in-house recording studio featuring an 83-inch television and a pair of khaki-colored recliners after a ﬂood destroyed everything but the walls in his former ofﬁce. On the side, Batura records himself reading novels, news clips and magazines for WRBH Reading Radio, a 24/7 station for the blind and hearing impaired. While setting up his new suite, a member of his family accidentally dropped a drill on his foot. “I fell, but I saved the wine,” he said. “All the balance work in this room came to fruition.” Smith took over the classes at the Y 15 years ago and since then, the crew have formed a routine tradition that matches their workouts to their playlists: n Tuesdays at 6:30 a.m. they listen to soft rock while working on their core strength. n Thursdays at 6:30 a.m. they listen to The Beatles and stretch their joints. n And Fridays at 6:15 a.m., they listen to hard rock while strength training with weights. “I’m more fit than I would be without it,” Batura said. “I came for the balance exercises, I stayed for The Beatles.”

stepping sideways in a lunge around the room with a resistance band around the upper thighs, squats over long-backed chairs for support, leg raises and stretches, full-body sit-ups, varying straightarm and elbow planks for two minutes and calf raises. “The calves are the second heart of the body,” she said. “It’s the way the blood gets to the lower half of the body.” Many have been repeat customers to Smith strengthening session over the decades at the YMCA, although she teaches 19 classes each Email Margaret DeLaney at week in the New Orleans area. margaret.delaney@theadvocate. “I’ve been coming for eight com.

SPINE

DOCTOR

“We’re pretty convinced that there’s a genetic component to (scoliosis) because it does tend to run in families.” This all started after Stella grew 41/ 2 inches in one year. Growth spurts, especially quick ones, are often the trigger for scoliosis to become visible, according to Farmer. “We hope that it gets noticed after growth spurts in the primary care ofﬁce because usually at that point it’s not so bad that we can start treating it non-operatively,” Farmer said.

on one morning that, without the A1C, might have followed him into his medical record for years. This distinction matters more than people realize. In many ofﬁces, a single elevated fasting glucose gets stamped as “prediabetic” without any conﬁrmatory tests. Patients leave with a label, and sometimes a prescription that they don’t actually need. That label affects how they’re coded in insurance systems, how they’re rated by life insurance companies and the conversations that happen at every future appointment. More importantly, it affects how patients see themselves. One number almost changed my patient’s morning. But the A1C told the truth. If your fasting glucose ever comes back borderline, ask your doctor about checking your A1C before accepting any diagnosis. The single blood glucose rarely tells the whole story. But the trend always does.

Continued from page 1X

Choosing surgery Scoliosis is a 3D deformity of the spine that does not simply affect the spine from front to back or side to side. There’s a rotational piece to it as well. Treatments for scoliosis largely depend on severity of the curvature and the age of the patient. Curves under 20 degrees are typically monitored for both progress and pain. The ﬁrst step for most patients with curves between 20 and 45 degrees is to wear a brace. These braces are typically worn up 23 hours a day to physically correct the curve of the spine. For Stella, now 17, it was unbearable. “There was a little heat sensor (on the brace) so they could tell if I was wearing it,” she said. “But I never wore it.” Little black hash marks on the straps of the brace indicated how tight it needs to be to progress in her treatment. The brace sat underneath her chest and had a hole on one side where her rib “was completely sticking out,” Furby said. “Her ribs had nowhere to go.” Her smushed rib cage impacted how much the caged bones could grow as well as the development of her lung. Stella was often shortwinded as a result, and could not walk Cookie, her chocolate Maltese. “It felt like torture,” she said. For severe cases, with scoliosis curves over 45 degrees, surgical interventions are highly considered. “Those studies have been done. Those studies demonstrate that curves over 45 degrees typically get worse as someone gets older, usually at about a half a degree to a degree per year,” Farmer said. “The general feeling is that if we take care of those curves at a younger age at a smaller curve magnitude. One, we’re preventing progression. Two, we’re hopefully providing folks with a better quality of life as they get older.” Stella was more than eager to get in line for surgery. Her sloped shoulders had become an insecurity. Her mom

STAFF PHOTOS By LESLIE WESTBROOK

Stella Furby and her mother, Erin, talk about Stella’s recovery at their home following spinal fusion surgery in Lafayette.

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU

Stella holds her dog Cookie. The Furbys show the back brace Stella wore before her spinal fusion surgery. had started to sew alternate strap lengths for dresses to homecomings and dances. “I always wanted the surgery,” Stella said. “I knew it was the only thing to make me really conﬁdent, feel better, at 100%. There was nothing else I thought would make me feel better in life than ﬁxing what was my biggest insecurity at the time.” Last year, Stella had spinal fusion surgery. Lasting 10 hours, it connected the vertebrae in her spine with two titanium rods and 21 screws.

appointments to help her regain mobility, like tying her shoes and carrying a backpack between classes. While she’s not back in the water swimming competitively, Stella is preparing for prom and a few more dances this year, with lots of dresses that show off her shoulders. “They all fit beautifully,” Furby said. “Her confidence is something that you can’t put a price on. As much as you want your daughters to have great confidence, it really has to come from them.”

She made TikToks while she was in the hospital recovering. “She found humor in the silliest things, like trying to take her hands off the walker,” Furby said. Stella came home from the hospital after four days, recovering in her father’s recliner, covered in blankets and pillows watching and rewatching her favorite movies (“The Bee Movie” and “White Chicks”) while cuddling Cookie. Now that her spine is “one big bone,” Farmer said, Stella is navi- Email Margaret DeLaney at gating her ﬁnal year of high school margaret.delaney@theadvocate. with afterschool physical therapy com.

The Louisiana Health section is focused on providing in-depth, personal accounts of health in the state. This section looks at medical innovations, health discoveries, state and national health statistics and re-examining tried and true methods on ways to live well. Health editions will also profile people who are advancing health for the state of Louisiana. Do you have a health story? We want to hear from you. Email margaret. delaney@theadvocate. com to submit health questions, stories and more.

The Times-Picayune ✦ nola.com ✦ Sunday,August 23, 2026 ✦ 3X

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Eat Fit Live Fit

Molly Kimball RD, CSSD

B R O U G H T TO YO U BY

– Eat Fit Inspiring Stories – From Oaxaca to Louisiana: Chef Gabriel Balderas cooks with intention

alk into one of Chef Gabriel Balderas’ restaurants and everything feels natural, almost effortless. The spaces are warm and beautifully designed. The food is thoughtful without feeling fussy. Conversations aren’t rushed. Neither are the meals. Everything simply feels ... right. Spend a little time talking with Chef Gabriel, though, and you begin to realize none of it happened by accident. “There has to be a reason,” he said during a recent conversation for the FUELED Wellness + Nutrition podcast. “There has to be a need. We have to have a greater motive.” This philosophy touches every decision he makes.

A Childhood Surrounded by Food

Gabriel grew up in the rainforest of Oaxaca, Mexico (pronounced wah-HAHkah), where his childhood playground was also a pantry. “I grew up climbing guava trees, mango trees, tamarind trees and getting avocados and oranges,” he said. “Everybody prepares their own food. They process their own ingredients. So that was my upbringing.” Oaxaca is known for its extraordinary biodiversity and heirloom ingredients, including corn, beans, cacao, peppers and vanilla varieties that families have continued growing for generations. Gabriel calls it “the cradle of food.” “For me, as someone who cooks, who has a passion for ingredients and traceability of ingredients — where my food comes from — that’s paradise.”

full conversation. “It was an adjustment period,” he said. “I think everybody goes through a culture shock.” He began working in restaurant kitchens around age 17, first in Nashville, Tennessee and later in Birmingham, Alabama. The restaurants became more than a career. They became the place where he learned a new language, sharpened his craft and met the woman who would become his wife, Brooke. He worked in the kitchen. Brooke supervised the front of the house. “At first, we didn’t really get along,” he said with a laugh. Gabriel described restaurant culture at the time often meant the front and back of the house blamed one another when things went wrong. “The front of the house would say, ‘You guys are so slow.’ We’d say, ‘Your people make a lot of mistakes.’” Somewhere along the way, those debates became conversations. A year later, they were married. Today, Brooke is his business partner as well as his wife. Her influence is woven throughout the design and feel of their restaurants.

Why Shreveport?

Gabriel was preparing to move to New Orleans to help lead the kitchen of another restaurant with the company – but Katrina

Building a Life in a New Place

At 16, Gabriel moved to the United States with his older brother. He knew basic English, but not enough to hold a

changed those plans and he was sent to Shreveport instead. He stayed in Shreveport and within 18 years, he and Brooke raised four children, built two acclaimed restaurants and became deeply invested in the community. Earlier this year, Gabriel returned to Oaxaca to open his third restaurant, Papalotl (pah-pah-LOHTL), which means “butterfly.” Alongside the restaurant is something less familiar to most Americans — a food lab, what he first described as a “center of origin.” It’s where ingredients are transformed so every part has a purpose. “We have the idea of utilizing 100% of the ingredients, not having any waste,” he said. An orange becomes juice, pulp, citrus oil and eventually citrus salt. Native cacao becomes chocolate, drinks, savory dishes and more. Even the reclaimed wood tables in his restaurants, many hand-built by Gabriel and his team, reflect the same philosophy. “We’re intentional with the things we make.”

Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD, is a registered dietitian with Ochsner Health and founder of Ochsner’s Eat Fit nonproﬁt initiative. For more wellness content, tune in to Molly’s podcast, FUELED Wellness + Nutrition, and follow @MollykimballRD and @EatFitOchsner on social media. Email nutrition@ochsner.org to connect with Molly or schedule a consult with her team.

Brittany Strickland Photography

The Lesson Behind the Experience

Talking with Balderas always leaves me thinking about how often we mistake something that feels effortless for something that came easily. Whether it’s a remarkable meal, a beautiful space, a meaningful career or a strong relationship, the things that feel most natural are often the result of countless thoughtful decisions no one else ever sees. To hear the full interview with Chef Gabriel Balderas, tune in to Molly’s podcast, FUELED Wellness + Nutrition.

BY THE NUMBERS

NEARLy 2 OUT OF 3 KIDS REGULARLy CONSUME CAFFEINE Between August 2021 and August 2023, 62.6% of youth consumed caffeine on a given day. The top five sources of caffeine consumed by youth included both food and beverage items, including sweet bakery products and soda, according to data released in July from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Caffeine consumption in youth can disrupt sleep patterns and habits, increase

levels of added sugar and affect growing cardiovascular systems. On average,American children consumed 19.4 mg of caffeine on a given day, with the mean intakes increasing with age: 5 mg for ages 2 to 5; 12 mg for ages 6 to 11; and 30.7 mg for ages 12 to 19, according to CDC data. Caffeinated products are increasingly available to youth while guidelines for safe levels of caffeine

intake are based on adults. age group. The American Academy For children ages 2 to 11, of Pediatrics discourages sweet bakery products were caffeine consumption for kids. the top sources of caffeine However, Canada does have at 28.1% of total caffeine some basic guidelines.They intake, followed by flavored recommend the following milk (17.4%), candy (16.3%), daily limits on caffeine: soda (11.7%) and tea Ages 4 to 6: 45 mg, about a (9.6%). half cup of coffee; Among youth ages 12 to Ages 7 to 9: 62.5 mg; 19, soda (20.3%) and sweet Ages 10 to 12: 85 mg; bakery products (19.1%) and adolescents: 85 to 100 were the top sources of mg. caffeine, followed by tea The top sources of caffeine (14.6%), coffee (14.0%) and consumed by youth varied by candy (10.7%).

Caffeine consumption The mean caffeine intake on a given day among youth ages 2 to 19 in the U.S. from August 2021 to August 2023:

IN MILLIGRAMS

30.7 19.4

12 5 Ages 2 Ages 6 Ages 12 Total to 5 to 11 to 19 (avg.) Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Staff graphic

Study: Threat of mold-associated illnesses may be underappreciated BY MIKE STOBBE Associated Press

NEW YORK — A first-of-its-kind U.S. study suggests invasive mold infections may be an underappreciated — and potentially deadly — threat. The researchers detected about 450 cases in Atlanta-area hospitals over five years. About a third of the patients died in the hospital. The findings, published this week by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, come from an attempt to better gauge how common these kinds of illnesses are. The government does not require doctors to report the illnesses. “It’s kind of the first time we’ve had an estimate like this,” said the CDC’s Dr. Jeremy Gold, the study’s senior author. And it’s important to understand it now, because the problem may grow in the future, he added. Mold exposure is a recurring problem in the wake of hurricanes, floods and other natural disasters influenced by climate change, researchers have found.

“I agree that the frequency of fungal infections will likely increase with climate change,” said Dr. Jeffrey Jenks, an infectious disease researcher at Duke University. Meanwhile, there’s a growing population of older people who are more susceptible to such illnesses, Gold said. Invasive mold diseases are rare infections caused by certain species. Most people who get infected inhale mold spores, but they can also enter the body through cuts or wounds or from contaminated medical equipment. The spores don’t cause health problems for most people, but they can be life-threatening to some, including the elderly, cancer patients and others with weakened immune systems. Previously, CDC researchers ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By ALEX BRANDON estimated more than 15,000 hos- Mold grows in 2007 on the walls of a home damaged by the floodwaters pitalizations a year could be tied from Hurricane Katrina in the Gentilly area of New Orleans. to invasive mold disease. To better understand how common cases might be at a local ics to look for potential cases from nowed the number down to about level, the research team worked 2020 to 2024. 450 by ruling out patients who with four Atlanta-area hospitals They initially identiﬁed nearly may have had signs of exposure and their afﬁliated outpatient clin- 1,000 potential cases, but win- but didn’t qualify as having inva-

sive mold disease. The researchers found that hospitals can expect to see 3 to 5 cases per year for every 100 inpatient beds. The rates were higher at larger academic hospitals that tend to see more complicated illnesses. Most patients had impaired immune systems or — in a number of cases — were weakened after falling sick from COVID-19. Mold exposures can occur in hospitals or other healthcare facilities, but the study did not try to determine where each patient was ﬁrst exposed, Gold said. It’s hard to generalize what was seen in the Atlanta area to other parts of the country where mold may be more or less of a problem, he said. But it should give hospital administrators at least a rough idea about whether the number of cases they see is what might be expected or whether it’s an outbreak, Gold added. Jenks called the study’s findings “valuable,” but said “seeing results from similar studies done in different parts of the United States would be helpful.”

4X ✦ Sunday, August 23, 2026 ✦ nola.com ✦ The Times-Picayune

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Louisiana strong. Ochsner proud.

Bo and Brett Bordelon | Ochsner Patients

Louisiana is built on strong families, strong communities and people who show up for one another. That’s something we’re proud to be part of every day. At Ochsner, we’re honored to care for generations of Louisianans—helping them stay healthy, pursue their passions and keep doing what they love. We’re proud to care for the people who make Louisiana home. Learn more at ochsner.org

SUNDAY, AUgUSt 23, 2026

CURTIS / by Ray Billingsley

SLYLOCK FOX / by Bob Weber Jr.

GET FUZZY / by Darby Conley

HAGAR THE HORRIBLE / by Chris Browne

ROSEBUDS / by Supr Dee

MOTHER GOOSE AND GRIMM / by Mike Peters

ZIGGY / by Tom Wilson

SALLY FORTH / by Francesco Marciuliano & Jim Keefe

ZITS / by Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman

PEARLS BEFORE SWINE / by Stephan Pastis

wonderword

scrabble grams

word game

directions: Make a 2- to 7-letter word from the letters in each row. Add points of each word, using scoring directions at right. Finally, 7-letter words get 50-point bonus. “Blanks” used as any letter have no point value. All the words are in the Official SCRABBLE® Players Dictionary, 5th Edition.

instructions: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed. 3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. 4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed.

For more information on tournaments and clubs, email NASPA – North American SCRABBLE Players Association: info@scrabbleplayers.org. Visit our website: www.scrabbleplayers.org. For puzzle inquiries contact scrgrams@gmail.com. Hasbro and its logo SCRABBLE associated logo, the design of the distinctive SCRABBLE brand game card, and the distinctive letter tile designs are trademarks of Hasbro in the United States and Canada. ©2026 Hasbro. All rights reserved. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

cryptoquote AxyDLBAAxR iS LONgFELLOW One letter stands for another. in this sample, A is used for the three L’s, x for the two O’s, etc. Single letters, apostrophes, the length and formation of the words are all hints. Each day the code letters are different.

AnsWers to ALL PuZZLes Are on inside BAcK PAGe

todAY's Word — neuritis: nu-RYE-tis: Inflammation of a nerve. Average mark 44 words Time limit 60 minutes Can you find 58 or more words in NEURITIS?

Sudoku

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

instructions: Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once. The difficulty level of the Conceptis Sudoku increases from Monday to Sunday.

hidato directions: Complete the grid so that numbers 1–132 connect horizontally, vertically or diagonally.

AnsWers to ALL PuZZLes Are on inside BAcK PAGe

Los angeLes Times sunday Crossword puzzLe — Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis “generaTion X” By yiJing CHen aCross 1 Purple or green herb 6 Discovery org. 10 “Bye-bye!” 15 Electronic music duo __ Punk 19 Skybox setting 20 North __ Sea: Kazakh lake 21 Finnish tech giant 22 Finnish currency 23 Cowboy boots, saddles, etc.? 25 Linen-lined outerwear? 27 Feed adequately 28 Drama produced in a recording studio 30 Birds associated with the Egyptian god Thoth 31 Part of BTW 33 South, south of the border 34 Broccoli part 35 Child’s complaint to Father Time? 42 “So helpful!” 46 Wee bits 47 Backless slippers 48 “Pretentious? __?” 49 Roman moon goddess 50 Get ready 51 Entourage 52 Transparent layer in the eye 55 Swine 56 Unit of corn 57 “I need to install brighter lights later”? 60 Reacted to a chill 62 Fragrant chain 63 Unwanted giveaway? 64 D-backs, in box scores 65 Not in favor 69 Printer supply 70 West Indies

country also known as the “Island of Spice” 74 Produce, as an egg 75 “Unfortunately, yes” 80 Common finds in a salmon smokehouse? 84 Mender’s target 85 Furisode sash 86 Field with a trolley problem 87 Decided 88 Window shade 89 Howler with four legs and teeth 91 Having four sharps 92 Bad look 93 Start of a religious title 94 In hot water? 97 Country known for its devotion to a General Mills cereal? 99 Currency of Vietnam 100 Kung __ tofu 101 Sargasso Sea fish 102 Bert’s favorite bird, on “Sesame Street” 105 Doozy 110 Icelandic saga 114 Charon? 116 High-strung Latin ruler? 118 Father 119 All fired up 120 “Can’t argue with that” 121 Comic-Con event 122 Name in a Chinese American dish 123 Superhero who says, “For the honor of Grayskull!” 124 Some tennis shots 125 Gave one’s word down 1 Softball clubs

2 Geographic region 3 Exchange heated words? 4 Certain closeup 5 Cantopop star Andy 6 Cabbage variety called “big white vegetable” in Chinese 7 Three-time AL MVP in the 2000s 8 South Asian wrap 9 Palo __, California 10 Mass arrival 11 Grinding tooth 12 “All right” 13 Jam 14 Dish served in a sizzling skillet 15 __ point 16 Arctic seabirds 17 Available for a meeting 18 Kiddos 24 Grade before grades, for short 26 Lie for, say 29 Trident-shaped letters 32 Possesses 34 Waxes, maybe 35 “Holy cannoli!” 36 Marine Corps cry 37 Ultrasound targets 38 Be theatrical 39 Can’t-miss activity 40 Otherwise 41 Oracle 42 Like favorite jeans 43 Schoolkid 44 “One Piece” medium 45 Pilsner, for one 48 Pluck 51 Green gem 52 Stage signals

53 Like last month’s deals 54 Discordant, musically 57 Badger 58 Fallingwater architect Frank __ Wright 59 Polynesian carving 61 Converse rival 66 Spot 67 Chef’s collection 68 Speedy fish

goren Bridge

70 Exhibits brilliance 71 K9 of “Doctor Who,” for one 72 Cast out 73 Like postmarathon muscles 76 French brother 77 “This is not a __!” 78 Exodus mount 79 Eye-related 81 Mattress choice 82 Fillet’s lack

wuzzLes

83 Peak 88 Cutter with four legs and teeth 90 Ships overnight, in a way 92 Wearing 47-Across, perhaps 93 Expected 95 [And it’s gone!] 96 Some belly buttons 97 GoPro product 98 Spanish “but”

100 Less polluted 102 Furtive “C’mere!” 103 “For real?” 104 Greek wrap 105 Mammoth 106 Like some LAX flights 107 Roman emperor after Claudius 108 Wormlike larva 109 Holiday precursors 111 James Bond’s first movie foe

112 Trail cam regular 113 Soap Box Derby rod 115 Cry of exasperation 117 __ and downs

super Quiz

Careful timing

Take this Super Quiz to a Ph.D. Score 1 point for each correct answer on the Freshman Level, 2 points on the graduate Level and 3 points on the Ph.D. Level.

North had a terrible problem in the auction. His partner had shown a preference for hearts over spades, but he had not promised any high cards, or any particular length in hearts. North bravely gambled and bid a slam. South had a reasonable hand and the slam had play, but it required careful handling. Declarer must anticipate bad splits after an opponent pre-empts. If the trumps split 4-0, South would need a 3-2 split in spades. A 5-0 spade split can probably not be handled, but there are chances against a 4-1 split. South ruffed the opening club lead in dummy and tested the trumps by cashing the ace. When both opponents followed suit, South cashed the ace of spades and led a diamond to his ace. He led his remaining spade toward the dummy. West could not gain by ruffing, so he discarded a club. Dummy’s king of spades won the trick and South then ruffed a spade with the queen of hearts! Had he ruffed with the nine, West could have over-ruffed and led another heart, leaving South a trick short. South ruffed a diamond in dummy and now ruffed

SUBJECT: CANADA (Example: How many provinces are there in Canada? Answer: 10.) FRESHMAN LEVEL 1. What is the capital city of Canada? Answer________ 2. Which province has the most people? Answer________ 3. What is at the center of the Canadian flag? Answer________ 4. What three oceans border on Canada? Answer________ 5. What is the most populous city in Canada? Answer________

a spade with the nine of hearts. West over-ruffed and led a club, but the spades were now established. South ruffed in dummy, drew the last trump, and claimed his slam. Good work! Tannah Hirsch welcomes readers’ responses sent in care of this newspaper or to Tribune Content Agency inc., 2225 Kenmore Ave., Suite 114, Buffalo, Ny. 14207. E-mail responses may be sent to gorenbridge@ aol.com. © 2026 Tribune Content Agency

ANSWERS TO ALL PUZZLES ARE ON NEXT PAGE

GRADUATE LEVEL 6. Name the only country larger than Canada by area. Answer________ 7. What is the national anthem? Answer________ 8. Canada’s government is not headed by a presi-

dent but by a _____. Answer________ 9. In addition to its provinces, Canada has three _____. Answer________ 10. What is Canada’s smallest province? Answer________ PH.D. LEVEL 11. Who was the first prime minister of Canada? Answer________ 12. For what does “NAFTA” stand? Answer________ 13. What is the name of the one major league baseball team in Canada? Answer________ 14. Which province extends farthest to the east? Answer________ 15. What is the name of the large island off the coast of British Columbia? Answer________

zodiaC VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Pay attention to detail, and engage in activities that enrich your life. An active lifestyle will lead to better choices, less stress and fewer illnesses. Spend more time and effort doing the pastimes you enjoy most. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) Move forward cautiously. The right move will lead to happiness and prosperity; the wrong one will lead to regret. You’ve got time to do your research, so don’t let anyone pressure you into taking a leap of faith. SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) Divvy up what’s on your agenda, and rearrange your plans to ensure you

get time for self-care. Taking care of matters that reduce stress will make you aware of what’s best for you. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) Put more time and effort into your home, relationships and learning how you can improve your life and daily routine. A chance to network will help you recognize an opportunity you didn’t realize was feasible. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Pay attention to detail when dealing with money, health and contracts, and you’ll figure out how to maintain a budget and enjoy what life has to offer. Be patient.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) If you look for the good in everything and everyone, you’ll prosper. An unusual opportunity to fulfill your professional dreams looks promising. Don’t buy into someone else’s plans. PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) Participate in events that get you moving, engaging and meeting new people. Explore what’s available to you and how you can take advantage of situations that develop. ARIES (March 21-April 19) Discipline versus impulse will sum up your day. If you let your emotions lead the way, you’ll probably face setbacks

and regret. Take time to address the pros and cons of every situation before you make a move. TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Be brave, not gullible. Critique every choice before you launch your next move. Dedicate more time and effort to self-improvement and realizing what’s best for you and your budget. GEMINI (May 21-June 20) You can’t buy love. A change of heart will coax you into bringing about personal and lifestyle changes. Check your finances before you commit to or buy into something that may stretch your budget.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) Emotional situations will mount if you or someone close to you withholds information. Be forthright, and if you are suspicious of what someone is telling you, be blunt. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) Live and learn. How you address love and personal incentives will determine the outcome. Rise to whatever occasion brings you the most joy. The horoscope, an entertainment feature, is not based on scientific fact. © 2026 by NEA, inc., dist. By Andrews McMeel Syndication

dustin / by Steve Kelley & Jeff Parker

Answers to puzzles super quiz 1. Ottawa. 2. Ontario. 3. A (red) maple leaf. 4. Atlantic Ocean, Pacific Ocean, Arctic Ocean. 5. Toronto. 6. Russia. 7. "O Canada." 8. Prime minister. 9. Territories. 10. Prince Edward Island. 11. Sir John A. Macdonald. 12. North American Free Trade Agreement. 13. The Toronto Blue Jays. 14. Newfoundland and Labrador. 15. Vancouver Island. SCORING: 24 to 30 points — congratulations, doctor; 18 to 23 points — honors graduate; 13 to 17 points — you’re plenty smart, but no grind; 5 to 12 points — you really should hit the books harder; 1 point to 4 points — enroll in remedial courses immediately; 0 points — who reads the questions to you?

Cryptoquote Answer Saturday's Cryptoquote: Friends, sun, sand and sea, that sounds like a summer to me. — Unknown

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rise risen rite ruin runt ruse rust inert insert inset insure inter inure iris tern tier tine

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sudoKu Answer jumble Answer

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