The Times-Picayune 03-06-2025 by The Advocate

Nuns vacate historic Uptown monastery

Future unclear for valuable property in pricey neighborhood

BY STEPHANIE RIEGEL Staff writer

After more than a century, the Poor Clares, an order of Roman Catholic nuns, have moved out of their historic monastery in the 700 block of Henry Clay Avenue near Audubon Park, leaving vacant an entire city block in the heart of one of Uptown’s priciest neighborhoods. Just four nuns, all in their 80s, had been living in St. Clare’s Monastery, as the nearly 2-acre property is formally known. It stands behind a brick wall and encompasses the entire block bounded by Henry Clay Magazine, Constance and Calhoun streets.

Given their advanced age and dwindling numbers, maintaining the buildings and sprawling grounds was simply too much for the nuns to manage, said Sister Charlene Toups, who leads the order

“We do our own work and are pretty self-sustaining,” said Toups, a New Orleans native who joined the order in 1966 after dropping out of college. “But we’re older now and it’s hard for us to climb up and down ladders to change light bulbs and tend to the gardening.”

dates back to 1912 and was designated in 1979 as a historic landmark by the city’s Historic Districts Landmarks Commission.

Firm to manage street repairs

N.O. looks to complete federally-funded program

BY SOPHIE KASAKOVE Staff writer

split

Trump pauses some tariffs

One-month exemption granted for U.S. automakers

BY JOSH BOAK and ROB GILLIES Associated Press

ä Farmers, consumers brace for tariffs. PAGE 4A

ä See MONASTERY, page 5A

The nuns are working to sell the property to a local developer and hope to finalize a deal soon, said Toups, who declined to provide details, citing a nondisclosure agreement. They recently relocated to a house on Valmont Street about a mile from the monastery The monastery dates to 1912 and includes a main three-story building with a chapel, offices, meeting rooms, dining space and an infirmary The upper floors of the building house dozens of bedrooms, most of which have been empty for years, and was designated in 1979 as a historic landmark by the city’s Historic Districts Landmarks Commission. The monastery grounds are extensive, and include a mortuary chapel, where members of the order are buried, and a garden shed. There are also two live oaks named St. Anthony and St. Roch, a grotto, a grassy labyrinth and benches for contemplation.

Southern student died after being punched during hazing, sources say

BY PATRICK SLOAN-TURNER and ANDREA GALLO Staff writers

Caleb Wilson, a 20-year-old Southern University student, died last week after being punched in the chest during a fraternity hazing ritual in which about 10 fraternity members hit pledges with their fists and objects, sources close to the criminal investigation into Wilson’s death said Wednesday. The Feb. 27 hazing incident took place at a warehouse off Greenwell Springs Road, according to multiple sources — not at a local

park, as police said some of the fraternity members told them.

One source said Wilson was not singled out, but he apparently “experienced a medical episode as a result of being pledged.” The source said 911 was never called and there was a lapse in time between Wilson’s medical episode and fraternity members bringing him to a hospital.

Louisiana Secretary of State’s

Ofﬁce records show the warehouse is leased by Todd Smith, owner of California Hardwood Floors, and East Baton Rouge Parish Metro Council member Cleve Dunn Jr owner of Runner’s Courier Ser-

vice. Smith is a member of Lambda Alpha Ques, according to the group’s website, which is a graduate chapter of Omega Psi Phi — the fraternity under criminal investigation by police and an administrative probe by Southern University He told local TV station WAFB that his son is a member of Omega Psi Phi.

On Feb. 27, Baton Rouge authorities said Wilson was brought to a hospital “unconscious” by people who found him that way at the North Sherwood Forest Park. Baton Rouge police officers were

ä See HAZING, page 5A

WASHINGTON President Donald Trump is granting a one-month exemption on his stiff new tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada for U.S. automakers, as worries persist that the newly launched trade war could crush domestic manufacturing.

The pause comes after Trump spoke with leaders of the “Big 3” automakers, Ford, General Motors and Stellantis, on Wednesday, according to White House press

ä See TARIFFS, page 3A ä See REPAIRS, page 5A

St Clare’s Monastery

STAFF PHOTOS By CHRIS GRANGER

Sister Charlene Toups stands on the walkway outside St. Clare’s Monastery on Feb 25.

STAFF PHOTO By JAVIER GALLEGOS Corey Wilson, right, mourns alongside other grieving family members during a memorial for his son, Caleb Wilson, outside Southern University’s Smith-Brown Student Union on Wednesday.

BRIEFS FROM WIRE REPORTS

Army surrounds South Sudan VP’s home

JUBA, South Sudan South Sudanese soldiers surrounded Vice President Riek Machar’s home in the capital on Wednesday and several of his allies were arrested after an armed group allied to him overran an army base in the country’s north.

Machar whose political rivalry with President Salva Kiir has in the past exploded into civil war, said last month that the ﬁring of several of his allies from posts in the government threatened the 2018 peace deal between him and Kiir that ended a ﬁve-year civil war in which more than 400,000 people were killed.

Deputy army chief Gen. Gabriel Duop Lam, also loyal to Machar, was detained Tuesday over the fighting in the north, while Machar ally and Petroleum Minister Puot Kang Chol was arrested Wednesday alongside his bodyguards and family No reason was given for the arrests.

Neither Machar nor his SPLMIO party have commented about the ﬁghting, but Water Minister Pal Mai Deng, who is also the party’s spokesperson, said Lam’s detention “puts the entire peace agreement at risk.”

Western envoys last week urged leaders to de-escalate the tension.

South Sudan is yet to fully implement the 2018 peace agreement and elections that were scheduled for last year were postponed by two years due to a lack of funds.

NASA powers down parts of Voyager spacecraft

NEW YORK NASA is switching off two science instruments on its long-running twin Voyager spacecraft to save power

The space agency said Wednesday an instrument on Voyager 2 that measures charged particles and cosmic rays will shut off later this month. Last week, NASA powered down an instrument on Voyager 1 designed to study cosmic rays.

The energy-saving moves were necessary to extend their missions, Voyager project manager Suzanne Dodd at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory said in a statement.

The twin spacecraft launched in 1977 and are currently in interstellar space, or the space between stars. Voyager 1 discovered a thin ring around Jupiter and several of Saturn’s moons, and Voyager 2 is the only spacecraft to visit Uranus and Neptune. Each spacecraft still has three instruments apiece to study the sun’s protective bubble and the swath of space beyond.

Voyager 1 is over 15 billion miles from Earth and Voyager 2 is over 13 billion miles away.

Theft suspect caught after X-ray shows earrings

ORLANDO, Fla. — A suspected thief gulped down two pairs of diamond earrings during his arrest on the side of a Florida Panhandle highway last week, detectives say, leaving them with the unenviable task of waiting to “collect” the Tiffany & Co. jewelry worth nearly $770,000

In the squad car, a state trooper heard the suspect say, “I should have thrown them out the window,” and at the Washington County jail he asked staff, “Am I going to be charged with what is in my stomach?” according to the arrest report.

The 32-year-old man from Texas is accused of two felonies for forcibly stealing the earrings from an upscale Orlando shopping center last Wednesday

An X-ray of his torso shows what the Orlando Police Department believed to be the diamond earrings a white mass shining brightly against the gray backdrop of his digestive tract.

“These foreign objects are suspected to be the Tiffany & Co earrings taken in the robbery but will need to be collected after they are passed,” the department’s arrest report said.

Orlando police spokeswoman Kaylee Bishop said Wednesday she was checking with the lead detective on whether the earrings had been recovered yet.

The earrings’ status also wasn’t known to a deputy who answered the phone but wouldn’t give his name in the rural Panhandle county where the suspect was arrested near Chipley, Florida.

Greenland’s PM: Island not for sale

BY DANICA KIRKA and STEFANIE DAZIO Associated Press

NUUK,Greenland Greenland’s prime minister has a message for President Donald Trump: “Greenland is ours.”

Múte Bourup Egede made the statement on Facebook Wednesday just hours after Trump declared in his speech to a joint session of Congress that he intends to gain control of Greenland “one way or the other.”

“Kalaallit Nunaat is ours,” Egede said in the post, using the Greenlandic name for his country.

“We don’t want to be Americans, nor Danes; We are Kalaallit. The Americans and their leader must understand that. We are not for sale and cannot simply be taken. Our future will be decided by us in Greenland,” he said. The post ended with a clenched ﬁst emoji and a Greenlandic ﬂag.

On the streets of Nuuk, Greenland’s capital, where the temperature was 4 degrees blow zero at midday Wednesday and the bright sunshine reﬂected blindingly off a layer of fresh-fallen snow, people are taking Trump’s designs on their country seriously

Since taking office six weeks ago, Trump has repeatedly expressed his interest in Greenland, a huge mineral-rich island that sits along strategic sea lanes in the North Atlantic. Greenland, a selfgoverning territory of Denmark with a population of about 56,000 people, lies off the northeastern coast of Canada, closer to Washington D.C., than to Copenhagen.

Trump made a direct appeal to Greenlanders in his speech to Congress, just a week before the country’s voters cast their ballots in parliamentary elections.

“We strongly support your right to determine your own future, and if you choose, we welcome you into the United States of America,” Trump said.

“We will keep you safe. We will make you rich. And together we will take Greenland to heights like you have never thought possible before,” he added.

But Trump’s message came with undertones of the great power politics that have marked the early days of his second administration. Since taking ofﬁce, Trump has suggested moving Palestinians out of the Gaza Strip and turning it into a “Riviera of the Middle East;” announced his intention to regain control of the Panama Canal; and stopped arms deliveries to Ukraine after the country’s president was slow to endorse Washington’s roadmap for a peace deal with Russia.

Trump said his administration was “working with everybody involved to try to get” Greenland.

“We need it really for international world security. And I think we’re going to get it. One way or the other, we’re going to get it,” Trump said.

Lisa Aardestrup, an 18-year-old language student, wasn’t interested in Trump’s sales pitch as she stepped carefully off a bus and onto an icy street on her way to class Wednesday morning.

She’s concerned that becoming part of the United States would damage Greenland’s environment and the ﬁshing industry, which accounts for about 90% of the country’s exports, while fueling inﬂation and higher taxes.

“We feel like it’s a bad idea, and we just more want to be like our little island that’s more independent than anything else,” Aardestrup said.

“Greenland is very independent,” she added.

Aardestrup is also worried about importing the school shootings, angry politics and homelessness that dominate the news from the U.S She fears that would threaten Greenland’s culture, which she learned about from the stories her parents told her

Trump administration moves to drop emergency abortion case

BY LINDSAY WHITEHURST and REBECCA BOONE Associated Press

WASHINGTON The Trump administration on Wednesday moved to drop an Idaho emergency abortion case in one of its ﬁrst moves on the issue since President Donald Trump began his second term

The Justice Department filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, which was originally filed by the Biden administration, and allow Idaho to fully enforce its strict abortion ban even during emergency situations

A judge quickly blocked that enforcement, though, after doctors said it could force them to airlift women to other states to get standard critical care without the risk of running afoul of the law.

The Biden administration had argued that emergency-room doctors must to provide terminations if necessary to stabilize pregnant women in Idaho, which has one of the country’s strictest abortion bans.

The case could have nationwide implications, since the Democratic administration had given similar guidance to hospitals nationwide in the wake of the Supreme Court 2022 decision overturning the

right to abortion. It’s being challenged in other conservative states.

In Idaho, the state argued that its law does allow life-saving abortions and the Biden administration wrongly sought to expand the exceptions with an incorrect interpretation of federal law

Idaho doctors, meanwhile, say it’s often unclear in fast-moving emergencies whether pregnancy complications could ultimately prove fatal and allow a legal abortion under ban, doctors said.

Numerous doctors in the state — including some who oppose elective abortion — have said “Damocles’ sword hangs over them all the time,” said McKay Cunningham, a professor of reproductive rights and constitutional law at the College of Idaho.

St. Luke’s Health System, the state’s largest, said it airlifted six patients out of state to treat medical emergencies when the ban was in force between January and April 2024. Only one needed similar treatment in all of 2023.

Complaints that pregnant women were turned away from U.S emergency rooms spiked after the overturning of Roe v. Wade amid questions about what care hospitals could legally provide, federal records

Kremlin: 2022 decree bans Zelenskyy from talks with Putin

By The Associated Press

Russia on Wednesday asked how Ukraine could attend potential talks on ending their three-year war when a Ukrainian decree from 2022 rules out negotiations with President Vladimir Putin.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy “is still legally prohibited from negotiating with the Russian side,” Dmitry Peskov noted during a daily call with reporters.

Zelenskyy expressed readiness Tuesday to negotiate peace with Russia as soon as possible, and Peskov called that “positive.”

However, “the details have not changed yet,” the Russian spokesman added, apparently referring to the decree. Ukraine’s government did not immediately comment.

Neither Ukrainian nor Western ofﬁcials have mentioned the presidential decree, signed seven months after Russia’s full-scale invasion, in the context of U.S. President Donald Trump’s latest efforts to stop the ﬁghting in a war of attrition that has killed tens of thousands of soldiers and over 12,000 Ukrainian civilians.

The United States seeks to pressure Zelenskyy into negotiating an end to the war The Trump administration on Monday suspended its crucial military aid to Ukraine.

On Wednesday, U.S. ofﬁcials said Washington has

also paused intelligence sharing with Kyiv However, Trump administration ofﬁcials said that positive talks between Washington and Kyiv mean the suspension may not last long. In the war’s early months, Zelenskyy repeatedly called for a personal meeting with Putin but was rebuffed. After the Kremlin’s decision in September 2022 to illegally annex four regions of Ukraine Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson and Zaporizhzhia Zelenskyy enacted a decree declaring that holding negotiations with Putin had become impossible.

The Kremlin at the time said it would wait for Ukraine to sit down for talks on ending the conflict, noting it may not happen until a new Ukrainian president took office. Ukrainian forces are now toiling to slow advances by the bigger Russian army along the 600-mile front line, especially in the eastern Donetsk region. The Russian onslaught, costly for its troops, hasn’t brought a strategically significant breakthrough for the Kremlin. As European leaders scramble to adapt to the sharply changing U.S. position on Ukraine under Trump, the French government on Wednesday said Zelenskyy French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer could travel together to Washington “eventually.”

showed.

In his ﬁrst term, Trump appointed many of the Supreme Court justices who voted to overturned the constitutional right to abortion. The Republican has since said the issue should be left to the states.

Dropping the lawsuit is “a big win for unborn children in Idaho, for women and for the truth,” said Kelsey Pritchard, political affairs communications director for Susan B Anthony Pro-Life America. “Idaho protects women as well as unborn children.”

The Supreme Court stepped into the Idaho case last year It ultimately handed down a narrow ruling that allowed hospitals to keep making determinations about emergency pregnancy terminations but left key legal questions unresolved.

The case went before the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in December Those judges have not yet ruled, and the Justice Department moved to dismiss the case.

“The administration choosing to walk away is just completely outrageous and really heartbreaking for the women of this country,” said Brittany Fonteno, president and CEO of the National Abortion Federation. “This case does have far-reaching impact.”

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By EVGENIy MALOLETKA

A woman walks with her dogs on a beach in Nuuk, Greenland, on Tuesday.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By EFREM LUKATSKy People kneel Wednesday as Ukrainian servicemen carry the coffin of fellow soldier Vasyl Ratushnyy, 28, during his funeral in the Independence square in Kyiv, Ukraine.

A look at Trump’s claims in his address to Congress

By The Associated Press

President Donald Trump’s Tuesday night address to a joint session of Congress highlighted several of the initiatives he’s started in his

ﬁrst six weeks in ofﬁce, but many of his comments included false and misleading information.

Immigration crackdown

TRUMP: “Illegal border crossings last month were by far the lowest ever recorded. Ever.”

THE FACTS: Trump wrote in a Truth Social post on Saturday that Border Patrol apprehended 8,326 people on the U.S.-Mexico border last month.

But U.S. government data show that Border Patrol routinely averaged below that number in the 1960s.

While February marked the lowest arrest total in decades, Border Patrol averaged less than February for the ﬁrst seven years of 1960s

The government website does not track U.S.-Mexico border totals before 1960. Border Patrol’s monthly average was 1,752 arrests in 1961.

Illegal immigration

TRUMP: “Over the past four years, 21 million people poured into the United States. Many of them were

Speaker Johnson’s top aide arrested

BY MARK BALLARD Staff writer

WASHINGTON House Speak-

er Mike Johnson, R-Benton, is standing behind his longtime chief of staff, who was arrested on suspicion of driving under the inﬂuence shortly after President Donald Trump’s speech late Tuesday night. Hayden Haynes was arrested after hitting a vehicle and was given a citation to appear in court.

“A driver backed into a parked vehicle last night around 11:40 p.m.,” the U.S Capitol Police said in a statement to NBC News. “We responded and arrested them for DUI.” Police did not identify the driver, but Johnson acknowledged to NBC that it was Haynes.

“The speaker is aware of the encounter that occurred last night involving his chief of staff and the Capitol Police,” said Johnson’s spokesperson, Taylor Haulsee. “The speaker has known and worked closely with Hayden for nearly a decade and trusted him to serve as his chief of staff for his entire tenure in Congress Because of this and Hayden’s esteemed reputation among members and staff alike, the speaker has full faith and conﬁdence in Hayden’s ability to lead the speaker’s ofﬁce.” Haynes is from Minden and a graduate of Louisiana Tech University He worked for then-U.S. Sen. David Vitter, R-Metairie, for seven years before joining Johnson in 2016.

Haynes ran Johnson’s campaign for Congress and has been his chief of staff since 2017, when Johnson arrived in Washington. He is one of the most inﬂuential staffers on Capitol Hill.

Johnson secured the speakership in October 2023 and presided over Trump’s 100-minute speech to a joint session of Congress and the nation Tuesday night.

murderers, human traffickers, gang members.”

THE FACTS: That figure, which Trump cites regularly, is highly inﬂated U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported more than 10.8 million arrests for illegal crossings from Mexico from January 2021 through December 2024.

But that’s arrests, not people.

Under asylum restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, many people crossed more than once until they succeeded because there were no legal consequences for getting turned back to Mexico. So the number of people is lower than the number of arrests.

Hotel costs for noncitizens

TRUMP: Citing alleged examples of what he described as “appalling waste” in the federal government, referenced “$59 million for illegal alien hotel rooms in New York City.”

THE FACTS: Trump appeared to be referencing a payment of $58.6 million — one of two the city received last month. The payment was a federal reimbursement under the Shelter and Services Program, which was created to support local governments and non-government

secretary Karoline Leavitt.

Asked if 30 days was enough for the auto sector to prepare for the new taxes, Leavitt said Trump was blunt with the automakers seeking an exemption: “He told them that they should get on it, start investing, start moving, shift production here to the United States of America where they will pay no tariff.”

Trump had long promised to impose tariffs, but his opening weeks in the White House involved aggressive threats and surprise suspensions, leaving allies unclear at what the U.S. president is actually trying to achieve.

Based off various Trump administration statements, the tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China imposed on Tuesday are about stopping illegal immigration, blocking fentanyl smuggling, closing the trade gap, balancing the federal budget and other nations showing more respect for Trump.

All of that has left Canada, a long-standing ally, determined to stand up against Trump with its own retaliatory tariffs, rejecting a White House overture to possibly reduce some of tariffs imposed on Tuesday.

“We are not going to back down,” Ontario Premier Doug Ford said after speaking with the Canadian prime minister “We will not budge. Zero tariffs and that is it.”

Ford told The Associated Press that the auto sector in the United States and Canada would last approximately 10 days before they start shutting down the assembly lines because of the tariffs.

“People are going to lose their jobs,” he said

After the White House announced the one-month reprieve, shares of big U.S., Asian and European automakers jumped as much as 6%.

But pausing the 25% taxes on autos and auto parts traded through the North American trade pact USMCA would only delay a broader reckoning to take place on April 2, when Trump is set to impose broad “reciprocal” tariffs to match the taxes and subsidies that

organizations that provide support to noncitizens released by immigration authorities.

Liz Garcia, a city spokesperson, said at the time that these reimbursements included $19 million in claims for hotel costs. The two payments totaled over $80.5 million for services delivered between November 2023 and October 2024. Social Security money

TRUMP: “Believe it or not, government databases list 4.7 million Social Security members from people aged 100 to 109 years old. It lists 3.6 million people from ages 110 to 119. 3.47 million people from ages 120 to 129. 3.9 million people from ages 130 to 139. 3.5 million people from ages 140 to 149. And money is being paid to many of them, and we are searching right now.”

THE FACTS: The databases may list those people, but that does not mean they are getting paid beneﬁts. Part of the confusion comes from Social Security’s software system based on the COBOL programming language, which doesn’t use a speciﬁc format for dates. This means that some en-

tries with missing or incomplete birthdates will default to a reference point of more than 150 years ago.

The news organization Wired ﬁrst reported on the use of COBOL programming language at the Social Security Administration.

Additionally, a series of reports from the Social Security Administration’s inspector general in March 2023 and July 2024 state that the agency has not established a new system to properly annotate death information in its database, which included roughly 18.9 million Social Security numbers of people born in 1920 or earlier but were not marked as deceased. This does not mean, however, that these people were receiving beneﬁts.

The agency decided not to update the database because of the cost to do so, which would run upward of $9 million. As of September 2015, the agency automatically stops payments to people who are older than 115 years old.

‘Economic catastrophe’

TRUMP: “Among my very highest priorities is to rescue our econo-

other countries charge on imports.

The U.S. automaker Ford said in a statement: “We will continue to have a healthy and candid dialogue with the Administration to help achieve a bright future for our industry and U.S. manufacturing.”

GM in a statement thanked Trump “for his approach, which enables American automakers like GM to compete and invest domestically.”

Stellantis also thanked Trump for the one-month exemption, saying it “strongly” supported “his determination to enable the American automotive sector to thrive.”

Other industries are also likely to seek exemptions from the import taxes.

“A number of industries have reached out to us to ask us for exemptions to the tariffs,” Vice President JD Vance said Wednesday

The White House repeatedly insisted that it would not grant exemptions and the sudden turnaround reflects the economic and political problems being created by Trump’s day-old tariffs. While the Republican president sees them as enriching the United States, his plans to tax imports have alienated allies and caused anxiety about slower economic growth and accelerating inﬂation.

The U.S. president engaged in a phone call on Wednesday with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, as U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick had suggested that the administration was looking to meet Canada and Mexico “in the middle.”

But Trudeau refused to lift

Canada’s retaliatory tariffs so long as Trump continues with his new taxes on imports from Canada, a senior government official told The Associated Press. The official confirmed the stance on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to speak publicly on the matter

“Both countries will continue to be in contact today,” Trudeau’s ofﬁce said.

The prospect of a trade war appears to be an ongoing feature of the Trump administration In addition to his upcoming reciprocal tariffs that could strike the European Union, India, Brazil, South Korea, Canada and

my and get dramatic and immediate relief to working families. As you know, we inherited from the last administration an economic catastrophe and an inﬂation nightmare.”

THE FACTS: Inflation peaked at 9.1% in 2022 under President Joe Biden, but Trump did not inherit a disastrous economy by any measure. The unemployment rate ticked down to a low 4% in January the month he took ofﬁce, while the economy expanded a healthy 2.8% in 2024. Inflationadjusted incomes have grown steadily since mid-2023. And inflation, while showing signs of stickiness in recent months and still elevated at 3% in January, is down from its 2022 peak. Still, concern about the economy was a key driver behind support for Trump during the 2024 election. The average price of basic consumer goods in particular has seen major spikes in recent years. A dozen large eggs, for example, went from a low of $1.33 in August 2020 to $4.82 in January 2023. They decreased in price to $2.07 in September 2023, but are currently on the rise again, at $4.95 as of January

Mexico, Trump wants to tax imports of computer chips, pharmaceutical drugs and autos. He also closed exemptions on his 2018 steel and aluminum tariffs and is investigating tariffs on copper as well.

Tariffs are taxes paid by importers in the countries receiving the goods, so the cost could largely be passed along to U.S. consumers and businesses in the form of higher prices. In his Tuesday night speech to a joint session of Congress, Trump tried to minimize the ﬁnancial pain as a “ little disturbance.”

“It may be a little bit of an adjustment period,” he said after claiming that farmers would beneﬁt from reciprocal tariffs on countries that have tariffs on U.S. exports. “You have to bear with me again and this will be even better.”

Trump has predicted that tariffs will lead to greater investment inside the U.S., creating factory jobs and boosting growth in the long term.

OnTuesday,Trumpput25% taxes on imports from Mexico and Canada, taxing Canadian energy products such as oil and electricity at a lower 10% rate. The president also doubled the 10% tariff he placed on China to 20%.

The administration has claimed that the tariffs are about stopping the smuggling of drugs such as fentanyl, with aides asserting that this is about a “drug war” rather than a “trade war.” U.S. customs agents seized just 43 pounds of fentanyl at the northern border the last ﬁscal year Trudeau said on Tuesday that his country would plaster tariffs on over $100 billion of American goods over the course of 21 days, stressing that the United States had abandoned a long-standing friendship

“Today the United States launched a trade war against Canada, their closest partner and ally, their closest friend. At the same time, they are talking about working positively with Russia, appeasing Vladimir Putin, a lying, murderous dictator Make that make sense,” Trudeau said on Tuesday Mexico indicated it would announce its own countermeasures on Sunday Beijing responded with tariffs of up to 15% on a wide array of U.S. farm exports. It also expanded the number of U.S. companies subject to export controls and other restrictions by about two dozen.

Wall Street rebounds after tariff pullback

U.S. stocks climbed Wednesday after President Donald Trump pulled back on some of his tariffs temporarily. The move revived hope on Wall Street that Trump may avoid a worst-case trade war that grinds down economies and sends inﬂation higher

The S&P 500 rose to bounce back from a sell-off that had erased all of its “Trump bump” since Election Day The Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Nasdaq composite also gained 1.5%.

The market turned sharply higher after Trump said he’s granting a one-month exemption for U.S. automakers on his stiff new tariffs for Mexican and Canadian imports Trump made the move after talking with Ford, General Motors and Stellantis, which owns Chrysler

All of the Big Three automakers could have been hurt by such tariffs because of how much production happens across the countries.

Trump’s announcement sent relief through Wall Street, and Ford’s and General Motors’ stock both jumped more than 5% to help lead a widespread rally across the market.

The worry has been that such tariffs would not only hurt proﬁts for companies but also jack up prices for cars and other bills for U.S. households already struggling with stillhigh inﬂation.

The hope is that Trump is using the threat of tariffs as a tool for negotiation and that he may ultimately institute less painful moves for the economy and global trade if he can win what he wants.

Trump did not roll back all of the tariffs he announced on the United States’ largest trading partners, including on China. His latest move may also simply add more uncertainty to a market that’s already reeling from it. It was just on Monday that Trump had said there was “no room” left for negotiations that could lower the tariffs on Mexico and Canada, which took effect Tuesday and caused the U.S. stock market to tumble.

“The economic impact and consumer impact is still ahead of us,” said Sameer Samana, head of global equities and real assets at Wells Fargo Investment Institute. “It comes back to what no one really knows, and that is how long these tariffs stay in place.”

A report issued Wednesday gave a mixed read on the U.S. economy, suggesting employers pulled back sharply on their hiring last month. The report from ADP could be a warning signal ahead of the more comprehensive jobs report coming Friday from the U.S. Labor Department.

Second weight-loss drug maker cuts prices

Makers of the popular obesity treatments Wegovy and Zepbound are cutting prices for people without insurance. Danish drugmaker Novo Nordisk said Wednesday that it will drop prices 23% for all doses of Wegovy The new monthly price of $499, down from $650, takes effect immediately Novo said the new pricing is available to both the uninsured and people who have insurance that doesn’t cover the weight-loss drugs. Last week, Eli Lilly said it would cut the monthly price of its starter dose of Zepbound to $349. The U.S. drugmaker also is making larger doses available for $499 through its selfpay program. The price cuts come as supplies improve. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has moved both drugs off its list of medicines in shortage. The agency has said compounding pharmacies and other entities that have been allowed to make off-brand, cheaper copies of the drugs during the shortage must wind down production.

BUSINESS

Retailers temper expectations

in mentions of trade and tariffs, the board said.

year

Shares slid more than 14%

BY MICHELLE CHAPMAN AP business writer

A pullback by American shoppers has led to more caution from national retailers about their sales potential in 2025, with Abercrombie & Fitch becoming the latest company to temper expectations.

The imposition of new tariffs this week by President Donald Trump against America’s three biggest trading partners drew immediate retaliation from Mexico, Canada and China, sending ﬁnancial markets into a tailspin. Tariffs threaten to rekindle inﬂation, which in recent weeks appears to have begun to tick higher and has created more uncertainty for families and businesses.

Wednesday and they’re down almost 46% this year

The retail landscape is becoming more challenging, Neil Saunders, managing director of GlobalData, wrote Wednesday Yet he also noted that Abercrombie had a very good 2024, making it more difﬁcult to match in 2025.

“It is reasonable to expect some moderation in the growth rate — as is reﬂected in the company outlook,” Saunders said.

this week that there will be ”meaningful pressure” on its proﬁts to start 2025 because of tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China, in addition to other costs.

Even before the trade war heated up this week, Target reported falling proﬁts and sales in the crucial period leading up to the yearend holidays, with more customers pausing before breaking out the wallet.

U.S. consumer confidence plunged last month, the biggest monthly decline in more than four years, according to the Conference Board. Respondents to the board’s survey expressed concern over inﬂation with a signiﬁcant increase

On Wednesday when reporting its most recent quarterly performance, Abercrombie & Fitch said it expects sales growth of between 3% and 5% in 2025, worse than Wall Street had been expecting and far below the sales growth of 16% that the retailer achieved last

Abercrombie & Fitch, however, joins a growing list of retailers that see a slowdown ahead, and not all of those companies had a banner year in 2024.

Sales and proﬁts slipped for Target last year and the retailer said

Target shares are down almost 15% this year and specialty retailers that have seen stock gains are in the minority Shares of Gap are down 15% this year and shares of American Eagle, Guess and Zumiez are all down about 29%.

Walmart, like Abercrombie & Fitch, thrived in 2024 but sees a potentially rougher path forward. They’re watching signs

Farmers, consumers brace for tariffs

BY JOSH FUNK and MELINA WALLING Associated Press

OMAHA,Neb — Farmers and meat producers across the U.S. can expect the new tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China and the retaliatory action from those countries to hurt their bottom lines by billions of dollars if they stay in place a while, and consumers could quickly see higher prices for produce and ground beef.

But some of the impact on farmers might not be felt until the next harvest and some products might actually get cheaper in the short run for consumers if exports suffer And the price of corn, wheat and soybeans accounts for relatively little of the price of most products.

Plus, President Donald Trump could offer farmers signiﬁcant aid payments, as he did during the trade war with China during his ﬁrst administration, to offset some of the losses.

In his address to Congress on Tuesday night, Trump argued that agricultural imports hurt American farmers and asked them to “bear with me again” as he seeks

BY SIMINA MISTREANU and KEN MORITSUGU Associated Press

BEIJING — China is keeping its economic growth target “around 5%” for 2025 despite a looming trade war with the United States and other headwinds. The target for gross domestic product growth was announced Wednesday in a report being presented by Premier Li Qiang at the opening session of the National People’s Congress, the annual meeting of China’s legislature. It reﬂects the government’s plans to try to stabilize growth in challenging economic times, but stop hold back on more dramatic action to supercharge it.

The 32-page report acknowledged the challenges at home and abroad.

“An increasingly complex and severe external environment may exert a greater impact

to protect them. He didn’t mention any additional aid.

If the tariffs make farmers uneasy about investing in expensive tractors and consumers worry so much about groceries that they cut other spending, that would hurt the economy overall and could even lead to a recession. And consumers were already worried about record egg prices amid a bird ﬂu outbreak.

“Exactly how strong our economy is over time has a lot to do with U.S. consumers’ comfort with continuing to go out to restaurants and continuing to buy washers and dryers and just that general activity And a lot of what we’re talking about here is probably going to slow some of that,” said Glynn Tonsor, an agricultural economist at Kansas State University

The situation has some farmers stocking up on equipment and supplies in preparation for prices to go up, but it’s not like they can easily buy all their fertilizer ahead of time And consumers might have a hard time stockpiling perishable products like avocados and ground beef.

The details of how the tariffs are imple-

mented and whether any products are excluded will also matter

Corn and soybean prices for this year’s harvest already fell roughly 10% since the tariffs were first announced a couple of weeks ago.

Joe Janzen, an agricultural economist with the University of Illinois, said that has “snuffed out” any proﬁtability in those crops. He called Trump’s comments that farmers may be able to sell more of their products at home “at best tone-deaf.”

“There is no domestic market for the amount of corn, soybeans, wheat and other agricultural products that we now export in signiﬁcant quantities,” he said.

Meanwhile, as crop prices decline, farmers might see their fertilizer bill jump because 85% of the potash American farmers use in fertilizer comes from Canada, which also supplies some nitrogen fertilizer as well.

But Iowa State University agricultural economist Chad Hart said many farmers applied fertilizer to their ﬁelds last fall and may not have to pay the higher fertilizer bills until later

on China in areas such as trade, science, and technology,” Li said, reading parts of the report to the Congress over nearly an hour “Domestically, the foundation for China’s sustained economic recovery and growth is not strong enough. Effective demand is weak, and consumption, in particular, is sluggish.”

The IMF has projected China’s economy will grow 4.6% this year, down from 5% in 2024, according to Chinese government statistics.

The report offered some details on previously announced plans to step up stimulus for the sluggish economy this year It outlined plans for a “more proactive ﬁscal policy,” including an increase in deﬁcit spending from 3% to 4% of GDP, or the size of the overall economy It said the government would issue $180 billion in ultralong term bonds, up from 1 trillion yuan last year, and that 300 billion yuan in such bonds would go toward a program launched last year that offers rebates to consumers who trade in automobiles or appliances for new ones. Across-the-board tariffs imposed on Chinese products by U.S. President Donald Trump

pose the latest threat to an economy already weighed down by a prolonged real estate slump and sluggish consumer spending and private business investment.

China’s ruling Communist Party signaled in December that it would boost stimulus this year The U.S. tariffs have made that task more

ASSOCIATED PRESS FILE PHOTO By JOSHUA A. BICKEL

Mark Woodruff loads more soybean seeds into a planter in Sabina, Ohio.

Sandifer, Brittany Renee

Brittany Renee Sandifer 34, departed this earthly life on Wednesday, Febru‐ary 19, 2025. Born on Octo‐ber 9, 1990, Brittany was the cherished daughter of Rotonda Berry Sandifer and the late Edmond Keith Sandifer Jr. She was a beloved sister to Shareef Sandifer and Dezire' San‐difer She was preceded in death by her father, Ed‐mond Keith Sandifer Jr , and her grandfather Ed‐mond Sandifer Sr She leaves behind her three beautiful daughters, Imani Collins Amari Sandifer and Azari Collins; her son, Donovan Collins Jr.; her de‐voted mother, Rotonda Berry Sandifer; her sib‐lings, Shareef Sandifer and Dezire' Sandifer; her nephew, Renaldo Thomas III; her beloved grand‐mother, Cora Sandifer; God-Mother Lynette Hilde‐burg and a host of aunts uncles, cousins, and dear friends who loved her deeply Her family was her pride and joy Brittany was born and raised in New Or‐leans LA where she grad‐uated from St. Mary's Academy before pursuing her studies at Herzing Uni‐versity New Orleans She completed her Sterile Pro‐cessing Technician pro‐gram and worked at Ochsner Baptist in the Sterile Processing Depart‐ment. Determined to ad‐vance her career in health‐care and continue her edu‐cation, she re-enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Herz‐ing University, expecting to graduate in Fall 2026. In ac‐knowledgment of her hard work, determination, and dedication Herzing Univer‐sity awarded her an Hon‐orary Bachelor of Science in Nursing Known for her kind and beautiful spirit, Brittany possessed an ex‐traordinary work ethic and wisdom that touched everyone around her Her beauty radiated both in‐side and out. Her charming personality endeared her to many. She had a remark‐able ability to light up any room, and her infectious laugh could brighten even the darkest days Brit‐tany's passions included cooking dancing and music of all genres, and she brought joy to many with her acute sense of humor She was a light in the lives of those who knew her and a true bless‐ing to her family As a de‐voted mother, she poured her love into her children, ensuring they felt cher‐ished and adored. Her life was a testament to living fully and bringing glory to God, and her legacy will forever resonate in our hearts. As we remember Brittany let us celebrate her life, her love for her children and the light she brought into our lives. She exempliﬁed the strength and dignity of a Proverbs 31 woman. A verse that resonated deeply with her spirit is Proverbs 31:25: She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom and faithful in‐struction is on her tongue She watches over the af‐fairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed." Brit‐tany's legacy continues through her children and all the lives she touched.

does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed." Brit‐tany's legacy continues through her children and all the lives she touched Let us carry her spirit in our hearts and remember the joy she brought into our lives Please join us in celebrating Brittany’s life at her Homegoing Celebra‐tion on Friday March 7 2025, at 11:00 a.m at Bea‐con Light International Baptist Cathedral, located at 1937 Mirabeau Ave New Orleans, LA 70122 There will be a visitation at the church from 10:00 a.m until 11:00 a.m., followed by the service and inter‐ment at Mount Olivet Cemetery 4000 Norman Mayer Ave., New Orleans, LA. Arrangements by D. W Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Avenue New Orleans, LA 70125 Please visit www rhodesfuneral com to sign the online guestbook

Shepherd,Walter

Born October 21, 1967 / Died February 19, 2025 at 57 years of age. Preceded in death by his mother and brother Scottowe Shepherd. Survivorsinclude his father Walter Shepherd Senior,son WalterShepherd III, wife HeatherDiTaranto, Walter Seniors wife &daughter Sandra and Stephanie Shepherd, cousins Robert and Vance Archuleta. His working careerasa young man included bartending in the French Quarter, Casino dice dealerand later management in sales. He made friends throughout life and notably had four of them visit from different parts of the country when they had learned of his battlewith cancer.

Thanks to George, Pat, Mike and George.Heis missed by all.

Slack, Theresa Marie Isaac

On Monday, February 24, 2025 at the age of 50 Theresa transitioned to her eternal resting place to be with our Lord at Ochsner Westbank Hospital in Gretna, Louisiana She was born on July 22, 1974 to Glenda Bienemy Isaac and Jerome Isaac Sr She was a lifelong resident of Phoenix, Louisiana. She was the loving mother of Ro’Dranique Michelle Slack Theresa was the beloved sister of Lakecha Isaac Kerreshia Isaac Keyaira Smith (Kevin), Jerome Isaac Jr (Shelly) Jeron Isaac, and Janron Isaac She was the niece of Rudolph Bienemy (Diane), Joseph Bienemy (Denise) Sidney Bienemy (Yolanda), Anthony Bienemy, Regina Williams Picquet (the late Rev August F. Picquet, Jr.), Wanda Narcisse June Bi‐enemy (late Terry Lee), Marshall Williams (Kelly),

Anthony Bienemy, Regina Williams Picquet (the late Rev. August F Picquet Jr.) Wanda Narcisse, June Bi‐enemy (late Terry Lee) Marshall Williams (Kelly), and Mario Williams, Dalton Collins (Jean), George En‐calarde (Danna), and Kevin Smith (Kim); great niece of Rudolph Willams (the late Diane), and Regina Thomas (late Winston) Theresa was the godmother of Taja Williams, Ky’Arra Foster, Jatavia Jimcoliy and Ca’Mari Barthelemow. She was the devoted friend of Brandi Triche, Nikita Barthelemow, Nicole Tin‐son, Jamelia Sino, and Jamilah Bertha Theresa re‐mained close with her lov‐ing mother-in-law, Brenda C Slack. She was the God‐daughter of the late Jean‐nie Williams Bienemy and the late Terry Lee Bienemy Theresa was baptized at an early age at St. John Baptist Church in Phoenix Louisiana by the late Rev Percy M Grifﬁn. Doing her Christian journey, after Hurricane Katrina she was under watch care at New Macedonia Freewill Baptist Church in Fayetteville North Carolina Upon re‐turning home to Phoenix LA she joined St. Joseph Baptist Church and later fellowshipped with neigh‐boring churches Theresa graduated from Phoenix High School in 1992

Theresa went on to gradu‐ate from Blue Cliff College in Metairie LA as a Certi‐fied Medical Assistant. She was employed at Burger King as an Assistant Man‐ager. Relatives and friends of the family as well as em‐ployees of Burger King, De‐Paul Medical Centers, Host-United Bulk Terminal, Pastors, officers and mem‐bers of St. John Baptist church and all neighboring churches in Plaquemines and St. Bernard Parishes are invited to attend the funeral services on Satur‐day, March 8, 2025, at 11:00 A.M The visitation will begin at 9 A.M. Services will be held at St. John Bap‐tist Church located at 136 St. John Lane, Phoenix, Louisiana Rev. Rommel E Griffin, Sr., Officiating En‐tombment will follow at St Joseph Cemetery in Phoenix LA Funeral plan‐ning entrusted to Robinson Family Funeral Home 9611 La - 23, Belle Chasse, LA 70037 (504) 208 - 2119. For online condolences please visit www robinsonfamilyf uneralhome.com

Smith Sr., Herbert Paul

It is with great sadness that the family of Herbert Herb" Paul Smith Sr of River Ridge, LA, announces his passing on January 26 2025, at the age of 87, at his home, with his family at his side. To those closest to Herbert, he was affec‐tionately known as "Herb , "Mr Herb", or "Papa Bear" to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren He lived a life ﬁlled with laughter, unending conver‐sation and an unwavering dedication to those he loved He loved his family unconditionally and would never pass up an opportu‐nity to spend time with them. Herb was born on March 29, 1937, in New Or‐leans, LA, and is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Agnes Smith, and six of his seven children: Kim Smith Piraro (Donald); Margaret "Margie" Smith

leans, LA, and is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Agnes Smith and six of his seven children: Kim Smith Piraro (Donald); Margaret "Margie" Smith Lentini (Deceased) (Brian); Penny Claiborne-Warren (Timothy "Tim" Claiborne Deceased) (Charles); Kelly Moskau; Herbert "Bert" Smith, Jr (Kristine); Jeffery Smith; and Christopher Topher" Smith He is also survived by 14 grandchil‐dren and nine great-grand‐children; his five siblings: Phyllis Howley, Kenneth Smith, Michael Smith, Daniel Smith, and Kay Nicolay; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews He was predeceased in death by his parents Lionel Smith and Marcelle Halphen Smith, his daughter Mar‐garet "Margie" Lentini, and son-in-law Timothy "Tim" Claiborne. He was raised and spent most of his childhood in New Orleans LA. Herb went to grammar school at St Leo the Great in New Orleans, LA and graduated from St Aloy‐sius High School in New Orleans, LA. He was one of the few remaining lifelong friends of St Aloysius that would gather often throughout the years After graduating high school he joined the US Navy, receiv‐ing an honorable dis‐charge. Most of his lifelong career was spent as a salesman with Bethlehem Steel Corp. He always wanted to know "why" and "how" and what many saw as an argument was only meant to challenge you on your facts He loved to bend the ear of anyone who would listen with never ending stories. He was smart, curious, and al‐ways had an "idea" in his head on how something could be made better A lot of time was spent in his shed making things out of discarded items he found on the street including cy‐press pieces he would stain and seal, bird houses and repurposed furniture He could repair anything you brought him, and if he didn't know how, he would figure out a way and some‐how it would turn out bet‐ter than before. If you needed assistance or something built, he was the first one to show up and offer his help No task was too big. Towards the end of his life his favorite spot was the swing in the front yard, and if you hap‐pened to walk by you could guarantee that he would strike up a conversation with you. He never tired of visiting with his neighbors and would always offer up a chair for you to sit in May his memory be a blessing to those he leaves behind Relatives and friends of the family are in‐vited to attend the funeral mass on Friday, March 7, 2025, at 11:30 am, at St Matthew the Apostle Catholic Church 10021 Jef‐ferson Hwy., River Ridge, LA 70123. Visitation will be from 10:30 am to 11:30 am Interment will follow in Jef‐ferson Memorial Gardens Cemetery, 11316 River Rd , St. Rose, LA 70087. We would not have made it through this difficult time without the tender care shown by Guardian Angels Hospice (River Ridge, LA) Through our heartache we will be forever grateful for the detailed attention and consideration given to our family The Smith Family invites you to share your thoughts, memories, and condolences online at www obituaries nola com. Your shared memories will help us celebrate Herb's life and keep his memory alive.

We are sad to announce that Paul Jude Joseph Tarto passed away on Monday, February 24, 2025, at the age of 61. He was born January 10, 1964 in New Orleans, Louisiana and grew up in Metairie.

Paul will be deeply missed by his sister, Antonia (Toni) Tarto, his niece, CatrionaTarto, and her husband, Marc-Antoine Le Gars, his godmother, Sharyn Sabella, his brother -in-law, Robert Plested and other close friends.

Paul attended LSU and was aproud member of Tiger Band. After school, he resided in Seattle, Washington for several years to be closer to his big sister. There he worked as acommercial driver and moved up to managingthe entire fleet. He later became along-distance truck driver, traveling across the country andoften visiting his sister andniece along the way. Eventually, he settled into along career at Court of Two Sisters in New Orleans, Louisiana, where he worked as a server andbartender for nearly 20 years. He took pride in hiswork and always put care into what he did.

In his free time, Paul loved to read, watch films and shows, andheenjoyed sharing moments with his close friends andfamily. He had adeep appreciation for good food andwas always abit of agourmand. He will be remembered for hiskindness and the wayheshowed up for the people in his life. His memory will always be held close by his family and friends. Relatives andfriends of the family are invited to attend theWake and Memorial Serviceatthe Garden of Memories Funeral Home, 4900 Airline Dr, Metairie on Thursday, March 6th, 2025 at 1:30pm. The Wake will be held from 1:30pm to 3pm, the Memorial Servicewill be at 3pm.

four great grandchildren: Ethan, Eleanor, Davis, and Shephard. She is also survived by her siblings, Gay Sullivan, Dr. Roy Boucvalt, Dr. Lon Boucvalt, and Chris Boucvalt. She is preceded in death by her sister, Bonnie Tassin. She was happiest golfing at Colonial Country Club, fishing in Grand Isle, playing bridge with friends, and spending time with her family and friends. A memorial mass will be held at St. Matthew the Apostle Catholic Church in River Ridge, LA on Saturday, March8,2025 at 1:30 p.m. with visitation to begin at 12:00 p.m. There will be aprivate burial on Monday, March10, 2025. Gail's family wouldlike to thank her caregivers for all the love and compassionate care they provided. In lieu of flowers, thefamily would appreciate donations to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation

Williams Sr., Dennis Michael

Dennis Michael "Nose Williams Sr. departed this life peacefully on Friday, February 28, 2025, sur‐rounded by his family at Our Lady of the Lake Hos‐pital in Baton Rouge La He was 48 years old and a na‐tive of Homeplace, La, and a resident of Plaquemine, La. Son of Dennis Ragas and the late Cathy Williams Devoted ﬁance of Tasha Robinson Beloved father of Dennis (Len Avila) Williams Jr., and bonus fa‐ther to Jasmine and Tyshawn Puckett, Dimya Grimes and the

Grimes and

grandfa‐ther to Najour

Brother of Tonia (Joseph) Gibson, Trina (Terrance) Encalade Devin (Oland) Laguerre, Corianna (Eric) Puckett, Sahuanna Barney, Austin (Skyler) Scott, Elijah and Lorenzo Ragas Dennis is also survived by several aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews cousins and devoted friends. Relatives and friends of the family as well as employees of Epic Payment LLC. are invited to attend the celebration of life services which will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Greater Mount Sinai Baptist Church lo‐cated at 27954 LA - 23, Port Sulphur La 70083. The visi‐tation will begin at 10:30 p.m and the service will begin at 12:30 p.m Pastor Allen Johnson ofﬁciating and interment will follow at Tropical Bend Cemetery in Empire, La. Funeral plan‐ning entrusted to Robinson Family Funeral Home 9611 La - 23, Belle Chasse, La 70037 (504) 208 - 2119. For online condolences please visit www robinsonfamilyf uneralhome.com

Gail Boucvalt White passed away on February 27, 2025 at 87 years of age. She was born in Gramercy, Louisiana to Roy and Audrey Boucvalt on November 15, 1937. Sheattended school at Lutcher High School ('56) and Mercy Hospital School of Nursing ('59) Sheissurvived by her husband, Robert White. She is also survived by her two children: Debra Davis Hymel (Mark) andJohnRussell Davis (Sarah); her four grandchildren:Preston Chamberlain, Alexandra, and John Christopher; and four great grandchildren: Ethan, Eleanor, Davis, and Shephard. She is also survived by her siblings, Gay Sullivan, Dr. Roy Boucvalt, Dr. Lon Boucvalt, and Chris Boucvalt. She is preceded in death by her sister, Bonnie Tassin. She was happiest golfing at Colonial Country Club, fishing in Grand Isle, playing bridge with friends, and spending time with her family and friends. A memorial mass will be held at St. Matthew the Apostle Catholic Church in River Ridge, LA on Saturday, March8,2025 at 1:30 p.m. with visitation to begin at 12:00 p.m. There will be aprivate burial on Monday, March10, 2025. Gail's family wouldlike to thank her caregivers for all the love and compassionate care they provided. lieu thefamily would appreciate tions Breast Cancer Research ndation

"how" and what many saw as an argument was only meant to challenge you on your facts He loved to

Tarto, Paul Jude Joseph 'Uncle Paul'

'Nose'

White, Gail Boucvalt

Report: Denka lawsuit may be dropped

public health situation.

EPA had targeted St. John chemical facility

BY JOSIE ABUGOV Staff writer

A landmark federal lawsuit ini-

tiated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency alleging that a chemical facility in St. John the Baptist Parish threatens the surrounding community with unacceptable cancer risks could be dropped in the coming days, according to recent reports, a sign of sharp changes in environmental policy being undertaken by President Donald Trump’s administration.

The move comes as a win for state leaders who said President Joe Biden’s focus on environmental justice in Louisiana needlessly targeted industry But residents and community groups near the facility fear that abandoning the case will worsen an already dire

Under Biden’s leadership, the EPA sued Denka Performance Elastomer in 2023 over emissions of the chemical chloroprene, a likely carcinogen. Denka’s facility in LaPlace is the nation’s largest emitter of the toxic chemical, which is released in the process of making neoprene, the synthetic rubber used in gloves, wetsuits and military equipment. The plant is the only source of neoprene in the United States. The EPA had demanded that the

company immediately reduce its chloroprene emissions. The New York Times ﬁrst reported the plans to drop the lawsuit. The Denka plant has become a focus in the ﬁght between environmental justice advocates, industry and politicians on either side, both in Louisiana and beyond. Gov Jeff Landry a steadfast Trump supporter, visited the plant last year in a show of support for the company and announced his administration’s legal challenge to what was then a new federal rule aimed

SILENT AND SOLEMN

Archbishop Gregory Aymond, left blesses the containers of ashes as he leads Ash

Wednesday. ä More photos, PAGE 2B

Attendees have a moment of quiet contemplation after receiving ashes during Ash Wednesday services at St Louis Cathedral in

Book festival full of choices

at the same time that Tulane geographer Richard Campanella talks about the future of

BY RICH COLLINS

writer

Event is treasure trove of sessions PROVIDED PHOTO The New Orleans Book Festival at Tulane University unveiled the 2025 poster Proceeds benefit programming at the free festival.

Code Breaker” with Nobel Prize-winning scientist Jennifer Doudna at the same time political strategists David Axelrod and Karl Rove will exchange views on the partisan divide. On March 29, novelist John Grisham and New Orleans-born nonﬁction writer Michael Lewis will share the

BY JOHN SIMERMAN Staff writer

The Krewe of Orpheus bills itself as the most diverse in Mardi Gras, a “consciously nonexclusive” superkrewe that rolled on Lundi Gras with famed drag artist Bianca Del Rio as monarch, leading more than 1,000 riders in a night of revelry But some participants weren’t

at reducing cancer risks.

“The Biden administration was engaged in an unfounded and illadvised coordinated attack on a single company that plays an essential role in the American supply chain,” said Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, a close ally of the governor “I’m grateful the new administration is correcting course.”

Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality Secretary

Four canceled parades get new dates

Jefferson, Orleans parishes set plans

BY LARA NICHOLSON and JAMES FINN Staff writers

After the threat of strong winds and storms blew parade plans off course for Mardi Gras, both Orleans and Jefferson parishes have announced rescheduled dates for four parades.

The Krewe of Argus, which rolls in Metairie every Fat Tuesday, will now parade on Sunday, March 16, along with the St. Patrick Parade of Jefferson, which is on a different route than Argus usually uses.

In New Orleans, three postponed parades will roll Sunday: the Krewe of Elks Orleanians truck parade, the Krewe of Crescent City truck parade and the Mystic Krewe of Barkus.

The threat of severe weather and 60 mph wind gusts put many Mardi Gras traditions into doubt earlier this week, with parades shortened or canceled, warnings issued over ﬂying debris, and ofﬁcials urging extreme caution.

Jefferson Parish canceled its Fat Tuesday parades entirely The Elks Krewe of Jeffersonians truck parade, which normally rolls after Argus, is still working with Jefferson Parish on an alternative date.

Zulu and Rex moved up their start times, shortened their routes, and cut some marching groups to avoid the weather that was forecast to worsen throughout the day The Elks

STAFF PHOTOS By CHRIS GRANGER

Wednesday services at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans on

New Orleans on Wednesday.

A Mardi Gras-themed headpiece sits upon a forehead covered with ashes during Ash Wednesday services at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans on Wednesday.

FESTIVAL

stage at McAlister Auditorium, while a Dixon Hall panel showcases a new generation of talent: Alison Espach and Casey McQuiston, who will take on the topic of love and romance in ﬁction.

The complete schedule is available at bookfest.tulane.edu/schedule. The festival originated 15 years ago as a small children’s book gathering at the Latter Library on St. Charles Avenue. It gained popularity after joining forces with Tulane University in 2022. Isaacson, New Orleans’ most famous journalist and a Tulane professor, has helped lock in the participation of A-list authors and speakers from academia and politics. All donate their time, which helps keep costs down for the rapidly growing event.

“This festival is more than a literary gathering — it’s an immersive experience that blends the best of storytelling culture and intellectual exploration,” Isaacson said in a news release. “Our goal is to spark curiosity and inspire conversations that continue well beyond the festival.”

Last year, more than 15,000 people attended Book Fest. This year, it is expanding its footprint. The most visible change will be the addition of another giant tent on the school’s Berger Family Lawn in the center of campus Other speakers and panelists scheduled to appear this year include Emmy-winning documentarian W. Kamau Bell, biographer Doris Kearns Goodwin, journalist Don Lemon, social media star Sharon McMahon, election analyst Nate Silver, lawyer Bryan Stevenson, author Tara Westover and journalist Bob Woodward

Overall, the event will present more than 90 panels, book signings, a culinary symposium, family activities and a closing concert.

During Thursday’s opening session, The Atlantic Editor-in-Chief Jeffrey Goldberg will appear alongside Pulitzer Prize winner Anne Applebaum, McKay Coppins, Elaina Plott Calabro and Adam Serwer to take on the “future of democracy and the American idea.” Afterward, “Just Mercy” author and Equal Justice Initiative founder Bryan Stevenson will speak.

Another addition this year: Poet Cleo Wade, a New Orleans native, and reality TV star Nicole Richie will host conversations in “The Burgundy Room” inside a festival tent on the Tulane quad.

Family Day at the Fest is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 29. It will highlight 22 local and national authors and interactive storytelling experiences The Garden District Book Shop will host book sales.

New Orleans musician Deacon John will play a closing concert Baldwin & Co. and Octavia Books will once again partner as the festival’s ofﬁcial booksellers. The full schedule of book signings will be posted before the festival.

Also new this year, the festival is launching a digital festival guide app in collaboration with Bloomberg Connects. The 2025 festival poster is designed by Simon, the French-born artist known for his hand-painted signs. All events are free and open to the public. Seating is available on a ﬁrst-come basis. Registration is encouraged but not required.

“We strive to create a festival that offers something for everyone,” said festival co-chair Cheryl Landrieu. “This year’s lineup promises to inspire, entertain and deepen our collective love for storytelling.”

The event will overlap with New Orleans Entrepreneur Week, headquartered next door at Loyola University New Orleans

Email Rich Collins at rich. collins@theadvocate.com.

PARADES

Continued from page 1B

Orleanians truck parade usually follows Rex, but was postponed. Despite the dismal forecast, the altered parades rolled successfully Tuesday as tens of thousands of people took to the streets.

Revelers were rewarded all morning with breezy and mild weather under partly cloudy skies until the clouds opened up with pelting rain and strong wind Tuesday evening.

St. Patrick/Argus

The St. Patrick Parade was originally scheduled to roll at noon but will likely be moved to earlier in the day, according to Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng.

The March 16 parade will start at 41st Street and Severn Avenue and proceed south on Severn before

FESTIVITIES FADE AWAy

DENKA

Continued from page 1B

Aurelia Giacometto similarly praised the move.

“We are grateful for the EPA decision,” she said. “I am committed to advocating for Louisiana’s interests. By reevaluating regulations and litigation stances, we can unlock the potential of our resources, contributing to energy dominance of this administration while beneﬁting Louisiana and the American people.”

Denka said it could not comment on the still pending litigation. The EPA directed questions to the U.S Department of Justice, which did not respond.

Advocates in the heavily industrialized region along the Mississippi River between Baton Rouge and New Orleans sharply opposed the decision, arguing that the government is putting the proﬁts of a company over community wellbeing.

“Just like our ancestors fought for their freedoms in Reconstruction and the civil rights eras, we

CYBERTRUCKS

Continued from page 1B

out here,” one rider told a police ofﬁcer after cracking a window on a Cybertruck, in a video posted from inside one of the trucks.

“We’re getting beat to s*** by certain people throwing stuff, jumping on the car, kicking the car, hitting the car,” a man told an Orleans Parish sheriff’s deputy at Harmony Circle, adding that three other Teslas in the convoy had already left the route.

Officials with the Krewe of Orpheus, which was founded in 1993 by crooner Harry Connick Jr., were silent Wednesday The krewe’s spokesperson, Renee Matthews, refused to answer questions about the trucks. She referred questions to Orpheus cofounder Sonny Borey, who did not respond to calls.

One local Reddit user, identifying himself as a marshal, said he was unaware he would be riding in a Tesla truck until he received his assignment.

The man, who used a slur to describe his feelings about Musk, recalled “boos and attacks from start to evacuation” along the Orpheus route.

“The people in charge were telling us to get out and stop people from crowding the trucks, and we all said ‘I’m not stepping foot out of this thing, they’ll think I’m a part of this and attack me,’” his post read. Attempts to reach the

turning left on Metairie Road. Both parades will travel down Metairie Road and take a left turn on Focis Street, then travel down to Canal Street, where they will disband.

St. Patrick will include 52 trucks, 32 ﬂoats and 11 marching groups. Argus planned to feature 52 units, including 20 floats, though that number could dwindle due to the postponement.

“This unique situation will allow us to bring together two of Jefferson Parish’s most historic traditions,” Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng said in a statement.

“The union of Mardi Gras and St. Patrick’s Day will be on full display on Metairie Road.”

Lee Sheng said they had never canceled Mardi Gras parades due to weather before, but that she didn’t regret her decision If faced with similar forecasts in the future, she said she’d cancel the parades again.

“There was a lot of bad places in

will keep fighting for clean air, clean water and clean soil so that we can live on the land our ancestors passed to us,” said Sharon Lavigne, founder of the advocacy group RISE St. James.

Emissions still exceed limits

The 2023 lawsuit was paused after the EPA adopted a new rule last year requiring a reduction of chloroprene limits. Denka challenged this ruling in federal court, arguing that the EPA used ﬂawed studies to determine the chemical’s cancer risk and saying it would not be able to meet the 90-day deadline for reduced emissions.

The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality gave the company a two-year delay to meet the new federal limits. A federal court in New Orleans agreed to reopen the case, as other challenges to the EPA emissions guidelines continue to be litigated in federal court in Washington, D.C.

The EPA contended that chloroprene emissions above 0.2 micrograms per cubic meter in areas outside the facility and 0.3 on the fence-line result in cancer risks

greater than 1 in 10,000 people over a 70-year lifetime. Fenceline monitors over the past few years have shown emission levels much higher than the 0.3 ﬁgure. The most recent monitoring reports for January show average chloroprene emissions of 0.90 micrograms per cubic meter Denka also sits a couple hundred feet from an elementary school in its ﬁnal semester of existence. The St. John Parish School Board voted to shut down the school amid a discrimination case over the young children’s exposure to the likely cancer-causing chemical, which can be even more dangerous for children. The majority-Black school is in a U.S. census tract with the highest risk of cancer from air pollution in the country, according to an EPA report.

‘Dire from the start’

Robert Taylor, a founding member of community activist group Concerned Citizens of St. John, said the organization is entering “emergency mode” over the reports that the lawsuit may be dropped.

Taylor said that for years, the lo-

cal and state government failed to support the predominantly Black residents who were raising alarm over the public health and environmental issues in their area.

For Taylor, this began to change when Biden entered ofﬁce and put environmental racism, in which communities of color are disproportionately impacted by pollution, in the national spotlight.

“Now, the situation has reverted back or gotten even worse because we’ve got a government here that’s so aggressive to the environment” and, Taylor alleged, unfair to the Black population in the region activists often refer to as “Cancer Alley.”

“Our situation was dire from the start,” Taylor said.

The leader of another advocacy organization in St. John, The Descendants Project, similarly said environmental groups “are used to having a government that’s hostile towards us at the state level,” Joy Banner said, so facing hostility at the federal level is not much of a change.

Email Josie Abugov at Josie. Abugov@TheAdvocate.com.

man Wednesday were not successful.

The driver of the same Tesla wrote on social media that what “should have been a really cool fun time” quickly turned south over misguided politics.

“It was obvious from the onset of the parade rolling this was more about chaos and hatred under the false ﬂag we hate Elon,” the man wrote on X Musk’s social media platform.

“It was really just an excuse to

my mind that could happen,” Lee Sheng said. “I’m just not one to take that chance.”

Truck parades

The Elks Orleanians, with 50 individually designed truck ﬂoats, will now roll Sunday, but a time has not yet been determined, krewe and city ofﬁcials said.

The trucks parade typically starts at the intersection of Napoleon Avenue and South Claiborne Avenue, follows Napoleon Avenue south and then turns east on St. Charles. It follows St Charles to Canal Street, heads north up Canal until it turns onto Elk Place, then ends at the intersection of Elk Place and Tulane Avenue.

Organizers for the Krewe of Crescent City trucks parade, which follows the Krewe of Elks along the same route, posted on Facebook on Monday that the krewe had received no official confirmation from the New Or-

destroy someone’s property to spread their evil anarchy on everyone Sadly, this is the state I’m from. I’m embarrassed of that fact right now,” he added. “I’m sure to some disappointed few, my Cybertruck was not damaged at all It’s bullet proof btw. The glass sure can be broken. Mine wasn’t, but a couple great friends were. What’s next?” Attempts to reach the drivers of the Tesla vehicles for comment were not successful. The New Or-

leans Police Department of plans for parades to roll on Sunday Still, organizers “assume” that plan will go ahead because NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick told reporters that “truckers” would all roll on Sunday On Wednesday organizers again said they “do not have confirmation in writing yet” from city officials of specific timing and route details and promised to let members know as soon as they received it. A New Orleans Police Department spokesperson did not immediately respond Wednesday to questions about the updated route and timing details.

Barkus

The Mystic Krewe of Barkus — a walking parade where dog owners escort furry friends through the French Quarter — will hit the streets at 2 p.m. Sunday The parade was initially set to

leans Police Department did not respond Wednesday to questions about damage to the vehicles or if police had ordered any of them to leave the route.

Musk’s role in the Trump administration has reportedly stirred buyer’s remorse across the country from owners and investors in Tesla. Some owners of the popular vehicles are now selling them over politics, while some Tesla showrooms have been targeted for protests.

take place Feb. 23, but was similarly rescheduled because of bad weather Barkus starts on North Rampart at St. Ann and traces south through the French Quarter then back north, ending back at North Rampart and Orleans.

Email Lara Nicholson at lnicholson@theadvocate.com.

STAFF PHOTO By SCOTT THRELKELD

The Krewe of Orpheus rolls to the theme ‘As Above So Below’ on the Uptown route in New Orleans on Monday.

Hints of Mardi Gras celebrations can be seen during Ash Wednesday services at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans on Wednesday.

Mardi Gras beads are worn during Ash Wednesday services at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans.

Geiger, Billy West Bank Bell, Ronald Bickham, Jimmie Davis Mortuary Briggs, Wilhelmina Bell, Ronald Brock-Stokes, Stacey Brock-Stokes, Stacey Brown, Euphemie Johnson, Carolyn Catchings, Robert Perrilliat, Wilma Charbonnet, Gloria Mothe Crumrine,Alice Herasymiuk, Mary Davis Jr., Huel Robinson FH Duhe, Sylvia Duplessis, Lola Catchings, Robert Elliott, James Matthews, Burnette Fischer Jr., Eugene Narcisse, Joyce Flores,Alma Slack, Theresa Foley, Gaylord Williams Sr., Dennis Briggs, Wilhelmina Dumas 'Mina'

Garitty, Jack Obituaries

Geiger, Billy Bell, Ronald Joseph

Gennusa, Frank Hayes Jr., John Herasymiuk, Mary Jackson Sr., Todd Johnson, Carolyn Johnston, Denise Kent Sr., Wendolyn Lemieux, Grace Matthews, Burnette

Mullen-Forrest, Ruth

Narcisse, Joyce

Perrilliat, Wilma

Rabalais, Lyn

Reed, Joan Richard, Catherine

Sandifer, Brittany

Shepherd, Walter

Slack, Theresa Smith Sr., Herbert Tarto, Paul

White, Gail Williams Sr., Dennis E Jefferson

Garden of Memories

Crumrine,Alice

Flores,Alma

New Orleans

Charbonnet

Charbonnet, Gloria

Johnston, Denise

Rabalais, Lyn

DW Rhodes

Kent Sr., Wendolyn

Lemieux, Grace

Sandifer, Brittany

Gertrude Geddes

Jackson Sr., Todd Reed, Joan Greenwood

Fischer Jr., Eugene Jacob Schoen

Mullen-Forrest, Ruth Lake Lawn Metairie

Bickham, Jimmie

Gennusa, Frank

Richard, Catherine White, Gail

Majestic Mortuary

Briggs, Wilhelmina

Davis Jr., Huel

Professional Elliott, James River Parish

Patrick H Sanders

Duplessis, Lola

St Tammany

Bagnell Son

Hayes Jr., John

Jimmie was aproud member of theMasonic Richmond Lodge #1 Division. We will miss Jimmie's style, laugh, smile, his love for food, family, friends and crown. Jimmie also leaves to mourn his Goddaughters and nieces, Natasha Bickham and Natasha LeBlanc; 5sisters-in-law and 8brothers-in-law and ahost of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. "God bless his soul".

Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Funeral Services at Pentecost Baptist Church, 1510 Harrison Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Visitationwill begin at 9:00 a.m. Interment will be private. To view and signthe family online guestbook, please visit www.lakelawnmetairi e.com

Ronald Joseph Bell de‐parted this life on Sunday, February 16, 2025 at the age of 69. He was a native and resident of New Or‐leans LA Ronald was a re‐tired longshoreman. De‐voted father of the late An‐toinette Samson Beloved son of the late Willie Bell Sr. and Everlina Smith Bell Brother of Robert Bell, June Walker, Debra (Thessalon‐ian) Jackson Cheryl (Joseph) Turner, and Sleker Bell, and the late Willie Bell, and Cynthia Washing‐ton Ronald is also survived by a host of nephews nieces, cousins, other rela‐tives and friends Relatives and friends of the family also pastors ofﬁcers, and members of Hosanna Fel‐lowship Church Christian Life, and neighboring churches are invited to at‐tend the Celebrate of Life at Hosanna Fellowship Church 400 Weidman St Gretna, LA on Thursday, March 6 2025, at 11:00 a.m Pastor Alex Bellow Host Pastor – Pastor Darryl Turner ofﬁciating Visita‐tion will begin 10:00 a.m until service time at the above-named church In‐terment: Woodlawn Park Memorial Cemetery-West‐wego, LA. To view and sign the guestbook, please go to www davismortuaryse rvice.com Face masks are recommended

Bickham, Jimmie

Jimmie Bickham, born on July 13, 1954, entered eternal rest on Monday February 24, 2025, at 5:51pm at the age of 70. He was alifelong resident of New Orleans Louisiana and aprominent member of Pentecost Baptist Church where he was alsoa dedicated usher. Jimmiewas preceded in death by his beloved wife Kathyleen Galman Bickham, parents Mary Bickham and Joseph Dixon; 4brothers, Leroy, Robert, Clarence and Lionel (Pamela); 2sisters Barbara Bickham and Laverda Suber, his grandmotherNoema Bickham; his nephews Alvin Dwight Bickham and Lionel Bickham Jr.; mother-in-law and father-in-law Lucille and Dewitt GalmanSr.;his sister-in-law Lou Alice, brothers-in-law Dewitt Jr. and Steven Galman. Jimmie leaves to mourn two sons Dameon Bickham and Keland Bickham (Alyssa); one daughter Kendra Edwards; two sisters Gail and Lynette Bickham; one aunt Dorothy "Elaine" Lee;11grandkids and 7great grandkids. Jimmie retired from DOTD and was also the best welderwith HANO for many years where he retired in 2005. He was the life of the party and avery funny generous man. Jimmie was aproud member of the Masonic Richmond Lodge #1 Division. We willmiss Jimmie's style,laugh, smile, his love forfood, family, friends and crown.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life John 3:16. Wilhelmina Dumas Briggs (affectionately known as Mina) tran‐scended to her heavenly home on Saturday, Febru‐ary 22, 2025, at the age of 84. Wilhelmina was born on October 31, 1940. She was the beloved daughter of the late Claude and Ethel Lee Dumas, and the grand‐daughter of the late Elphege and Eva Dumas, and Willie and Wilhelmina Kyle, and sister of the late Warren Joseph Dumas. Wil‐helmina was united in holy matrimony to her ﬁrst hus‐band the late Lester Wat‐son, and to that union no children were born Wil‐helmina was united in holy matrimony for the second time to the late Henry Briggs, to which no chil‐dren were born. Wil‐helmina was a graduate of Booker T Washington High School She worked as a housekeeper supervisor for many years. She leaves to cherish her memories two nieces Warlene Dumas and Claudette Dumas Williams (the late Glenn Williams), great nieces, Kyla Johnson, Nicole Russell Foster (Johnas) Niesha Williams Kelly (James), Glenniece Williams and one great nephew Glenn Williams (Lakeisha). Devoted cousin Micheal Dumas, God chil‐dren Ericka Watson, and Herman Williams, and De‐voted friend of the family Willie Spears, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins Relatives and Friends of the Family, also Members of New Home Ministries, Regular Baptist Church The Leah Chase School, and Abiding in the Vine Care are invited to at‐tend the Celebration of Life on Friday, March 7 2025, at New Home Ministries 1616 Robert C. Blakes Sr Dr (formerly Carondelet St ) New Orleans, LA 70130. Vis‐itation is from 8am to 10am, Services will begin at 10am. Providence Memorial Park is her ﬁnal resting place 8200 Airline Dr. Metairie, LA 70003. Pro‐fessional Arrangements Entrusted to Majestic Mor‐tuary (504) 523-5872.

Brock-Stokes, Stacey Stacey Brock-Stokes en‐tered peacefully into eter‐nal rest at her residence on Friday February 21, 2025, at the age of 47. She was a native of New Orleans LA and a resident of Houston, TX. Stacey was a graduate of Abramson High School, and she later received an associate degree in Busi‐ness Management She was owner and operator of Nora’s Detailer Cleaning Service. Stacey was a member of Real OnezHouston, TX. Wife of Kendrick Stokes, Sr De‐voted mother of Mar‐tinique Michelle Anderson, Markel Anddrick Anderson, Trevon Brock and the late Cordell Kendrick Stokes.

mem ROnezHouston, TX Wife of Kendrick Stokes, Sr. De‐

voted mother of Mar‐tinique Michelle Anderson, Markel Anddrick Anderson, Trevon Brock, and the late Cordell Kendrick Stokes Stepmother of Kendrick Stokes, Jr. Loving grand‐mother of Lorenzo Ro‐driguez Daughter of the late Jerry Brock, Sr and Susie Brock Granddaugh‐ter of the late Edwina Brown, Albert Kelly Joseph, Sr. and Shirley Brock Beloved sister of Betty (Dennis) Minor, Suzette (Juan) Stiaes, Bon‐nie Brock Albert (Candice) Brock, Robert (Paris) Brock and the late Jerry “Pin” Brock, Jr Godmother of Shakayla Willneisha Honor Best friend of Cheryl Brooks. Also cher‐ishing her memories is her devoted friend Jermaine Jackson, Sr., his son Jer‐maine Jackson, Jr., and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends Relatives and friends of the family, also pastors, ofﬁcers, and members of City of Love and all neighboring churches are invited to at‐tend the Celebration of Life at City of Love, 8601 Pal‐metto Street New Orleans LA on Friday, March 7, 2025, at 10:00a.m. Bishop Lester Love, host pastor; Elder Georell Jones, ofﬁciating Visitation will begin at 9:00a.m until service time Interment: Providence Memorial Park CemeteryMetairie, LA. Arrangements by Davis Mortuary Service, 230 Monroe St Gretna LA To view and sign the guest‐book, please go to www davismortuaryservice com. Face Masks Are Recom‐mended.

Euphemie Ann Brown, M.D 10/24/1944-09/30/2024

Euphemie Ann Brown passed away at MillsPeninsula Hospital in Burlingame, CA on Septem‐ber 30, 2024 after suffering complications from de‐mentia and an acute is‐chemic stroke “Phemie”, the second of

ber 30, 2024 after suffering complications from de‐mentia and an acute is‐chemic stroke. “Phemie”, the second of three chil‐dren of Harold F Brown and Euphemie Fortuné Brown, was born and grew up in New Orleans Louisiana, where she was nurtured and supported by a large extended family She was predeceased by her parents and her younger brother Harold “Hal” Brown, Jr. Phemie is survived by her sister, Car‐olyn Block-Arnelle, and two nephews, David H. Brown, (Lancaster CA) and Michael A Arnelle (San Francisco) and one grand‐nephew, Christopher H Brown. She is also survived by several ﬁrst cousins in‐cluding (Marcel and Doris Fortuné (New Orleans), Charles and Anthony Al‐fred (Slidel), Alcide Cham‐bers (Huntley, IL) and Mey‐ers Chambers (Boston) Cheryl Chambers Turner (New Orleans), and E Paul Martinez and Ermelle Mar‐tinez (Los Angeles, CA)

After graduating from Xavier University (now Katharine Drexel) Prepara‐tory High School in 1962 Phemie attended Brandeis University where she earned her bachelor's de‐gree in 1966. Following ex‐tensive post baccalaureate science course work at Co‐lumbia University in New York, Euphemie began her medical studies at the Uni‐versity of California San Francisco, where she re‐ceived her M.D. degree in 1978. After an internship in internal medicine at LSU Charity Hospital in New Or‐leans and one year of resi‐dency in pathology at the Veterans Hospital in Mar‐tinez, California, Phemie decided to return to her earlier high school dream to study general psychia‐try and she chose to do this training at the Univer‐sity of Michigan Hospitals in Ann Arbor, Michigan After completing her train‐ing in 1983, Phemie began he

Adoles‐cent Psychiatry. This led her to center her work on troubled adolescents whose early histories in‐cluded both physical and emotional trauma that continued to negatively impact their lives and limit their functioning. For the following 10 years, she worked primarily in outpa‐tient settings including the Guidance Centers in

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books and articles;

Scholarship University of California San Francisco Foundation, P.O Box 45339, San Francisco, CA 941450339.

Brown, Dr. Euphemie Ann

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4B ✦ Thursday,March 6,2025 ✦ nola.com

ﬁction books and articles; relaxing by gardening, singing, reading plays, and attending the Classical music concerts, helping friends and family mem‐bers; exercising her body by Tai Chi, walking and playing with her dogs (es‐pecially “Louie” and Boomer”) and exercising her mind through travel and reading the Sunday NYTimes and solving the Sunday Crossword Puzzle

Phemie often said that her important life goal was to be of help to others She truly was We miss her Celebration of Life of Dr Euphemie Brown will be Saturday, March 15, 2025 at 12 noon to 3 pm, Ralph’s on the Park, Second Floor 900 City Park Avenue, New Or‐leans Memorial Service and Remembrances: 12 noon to 1 pm Repast: 1 to 3 pm. To attend please RSVP by March 11 by phone, text or email to Michael at 415-350-3362 or maarnelle@gmail.com Do‐nations can be made in Eu‐phemie’s name to Katharine Drexel Prepara‐tory School 5116 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA 70115 or Medical Alumni Association Endowed Scholarship University of California San Francisco Foundation, P.O Box 45339, San Francisco, CA 941450339.

Robert “Pete” Earl Catchings, a native and a lifelong resident of New Orleans, LA. Pete departed this life on Tuesday, Febru‐ary 18, 2025, peacefully at home. Pete was born in the union of Mrs. Brenda Catchings and the late Robert earl Catchings. Pete attended Walter L Cohn senior high school He was the devoted husband to Racheal Catchings. Pete leaves to cherish two son’s, Isaiah Catchings and Rory Johnson and one daughter, Terrinika Harden; three granddaughters O’shun Johnson, Winter Johnson and Madison Mc‐Collum; 3 step kids Emanuel Vallery, Lateisha Vallery and Gregory Vallery One Grandmother, Doretha Hickman; three brothers, Tyrone and Alvin Catchings; 2 bonus broth‐ers, Charles Mitchell aka “Poo” and Donald Collins, as well as 1 sisters, Tricia Hickman. Pete is also sur‐vived by 4 uncles; Stanley Remble, James Hickman, Ronald Hickman and Michel Hickman; 4 aunts Irene Marshall, Barbara King Diane Bulter and Dar‐lene Green; 2 nieces Shanta Catchings and Sade Hickman; 3 nephews, Joseph Hickman Kalin Hickman, Chad Hayes as well as a host of cousins other relatives and de‐voted friends Pete was preceded in death by his father the late Robert Earl Catchings,2 sisters, the late Ava Catchings and the late Vanessa Hickman; one grandmother the late Julia Remble; one nephew; the late Durrell Catchings and one niece the late Chantel Catchings. Relatives and friends of the family are in‐vited to attend the celebra‐tion of life service which will be held on Saturday, March 8 2025, at Gentilly Baptist Church 5141 Franklin Avenue New Or‐leans, LA 70122. The visita‐tion will begin at 9 a.m., and the service will begin at 10 a.m. Interment will be privately held Funeral planning entrusted to Robinson Family Funeral Home 9611 LA - 23, Belle Chasse La 70037. For on‐line condolences please visit www robinsonfamilyf uneralhome.com

Bernard, her partner in life and love Gloria was born on August 12, 1930 in the vibrant heart of New Or‐leans, Louisiana a city that would remain forever etched in her spirit. Her life, a gentle yet unyielding force, was one of love, dis‐cipline, and an unwavering commitment to human dig‐nity. A mother of five Glo‐ria nurtured not only her own children, but an entire community She was the pillar upon which a genera‐tion leaned for guidance and solace Her children whose careers span across education, law, the judi‐ciary and industry, bear the indelible mark of her drive her quiet but firm belief that success is not a solitary achievement but a shared journey She did not merely encourage her chil‐dren to thrive; she de‐manded it pushing them beyond their comfort zones into realms where they could truly make a difference. Gloria's social consciousness ran deep From the tragedy of Em‐mett Till to the triumph of Barack Obama's election, Gloria's heart beat in sync with the struggles of the oppressed. A tireless advo‐cate for civil rights, she raised her children with the sacred responsibility to help the marginalized and to defend those whose voices had been silenced Her own hands were never idle, she donated not just her time, but her resources to causes close to her soul: Native American missions Doctors Without Borders, the NAACP- each cause re‐ceiving her support, a tes‐tament to the integrity of her convictions Her career was a mosaic of dedication to service As a school crossing guard, she en‐sured the safety of chil‐dren with the same care she lavished on her own As a district manager for World Book Encyclopedias she worked to ensure knowledge reached homes far and wide. And as a clerk of municipal court, she contributed to the quiet, steady administra‐tion of justice that upheld the order of her beloved city. Gloria was equally a woman of deep and abid‐ing love. To her husband she was the rock upon which he leaned for sup‐port, a well into which he reached for strength. To her children-Bernard Jr Cynthia, Geralyn, Pierre and Desiree-she was a teacher, a guide and a pro‐tector To her grandchil‐dren and great-grandchil‐dren, she was a living tes‐tament to the importance of kindness, humility and the enduring power of love And to her extended family and countless friends, she was a constant, a beacon of integrity and warmth in a world that often seemed too cold Now, as Gloria is reunited with Bernard, she leaves behind a legacy that will endure in the lives she touched in the work her children continue and in the memories of all who knew her. Her journey through this world was one of quiet resilience a life well-lived and a love that never faltered She will be missed by all who knew her but her spirit will for‐ever remain in the hearts of those she leaves behind A memorial service will be held in Gloria and her hus‐band, Bernard L Charbon‐net, Sr.'s honor at St. Leo the Great Catholic Church 2916 Paris Avenue, New Or‐leans LA on Saturday March 15, 2025 at 10 am Visitation begins at 9 am The family would like to extend their deepest grati‐tude to Jessica Mitchell, who walked side by side with Gloria as her care‐giver and friend in the final years of her life In lieu of flowers, the family ask that donations be made in Glo‐ria's name to Doctors Without Borders, a cause that was close to her heart Please sign the online guestbook at www cha rbonnetfuneralhome.com Charbonnet Labat Glapion, Directors (504) 581-4411.

Crumrine, Alice Annmarie LeBlanc

Alice Annmarie LeBlanc Crumrine age 76, passed away on Saturday, Feb 22, 2025. She was born In New Orleans on August 3, 1946, the second of seven chil‐dren. A high school gradu‐ate of St Joseph Academy, she went on to get her bachelors degree from Co‐lumbia University in New York City and then her masters Degree in Social Work from Howard Univer‐sity

sity in Washington D.C She had a passion for social justice and a heart for the poor and underprivileged especially in the area of mental health. Profession‐ally she worked and volun‐teered in New York City, Washington D.C. and then in New Orleans in her later years Alice was preceded in death by her husband, Michael Crumrine her mother, Margaret LeBlanc, her father Charles LeBlanc, and her sister, Margaret “Peggy” LeBlanc Left to cherish her memory are: her son Thomas L Crumrine (Laura); her three brothers Charles S LeBlanc Jr John D LeBlanc (Myra) and Patrick J LeBlanc (Leslie); her two sisters Kathleen L Plauche (Teddy) and Mary “Sue” L Krajcer; her nieces and nephews Molly LeBlanc Emma LeBlanc (Julian), Tracy K Battard (Alex), Michael D Krajcer (Katie), Katie L Krajcer, Janelle L Green (Derek) Justin E LeBlanc (Katherine), Alexandra L. Boullosa (Matt), Jordan T. LeBlanc (Grace) Isabella L. Molero (Tyler); and several grand‐nephews and grandnieces as well. A private family service have been held. As a gesture of condolence, the family thanks you for any and all donations made to: The New Orleans Women and Children s Shelter (Website: https:// nowcs org) or The Greater N.O Mental Health Associ‐ation (a division of The United Way (website: unit‐edwaysela.com).

Huel Anthony Davis, Jr. (BKA-Baldy & Champ) tran‐sitioned this Earthly Life on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. He leaves to cherish his memories his mother Bernice King, son Huel Johnson, III, 1 grandson Xyeir, 3 sisters Desiree, Serita and Sophia 2 broth‐ers Antoine & Darryl, a de‐voted friend Gwen Burrell and a host of aunts, un‐cles, nieces, nephews cousins, other relatives and friends He was pre‐ceded in death by his fa‐ther Huel Davis, Sr and sis‐ter Cheryl. A Memorial Ser‐vice will be held on Satur‐day March 8, 2025 at 1:00pm at Majestic Mortu‐ary 1833 Oretha C Haley Blvd. New Orleans, Louisiana 70113. Profes‐sional Arrangements En‐trusted to Majestic Mortu‐ary (504)523-5872.

Sylvia Sanchez Duhe passed away peacefully on Friday February 28, 2025 at the age of 84. Sylvia was born on September 25, 1940 in New Orleans She grew up in Kenner, the daughter of Alcide Sanchez and Hes‐ter Guidry Sanchez. She is preceded in death by her parents, her husband of 56 years Wiltz “Duke” Duhe III, her sisters, Delores Ja‐cobson and Rebecca Sanchez, her brothers, Myrum Sanchez and Richard Sanchez She is survived by her son, Keith Duhe and daughter-in-law Julie Kass Duhe and her granddaughters Kristin Duhe Malhiot (Ian) and Kimberly Duhe Smith (Joseph), her great-grand‐children Brayden Duhe Dakota Malhiot, Jackson Smith and Piper Malhiot and her sister, Constance Sanchez Huffman (Randy) as well as many nieces and nephews Sylvia moved to the Northshore 46 years ago and lived in Hammond and Loranger. Sylvia was a two-time survivor of both breast and colon/rectal cancer She displayed her true strength and convic‐tion to be the winner in her ﬁght the last 9 years, while still maintaining her happy disposition and quirky sense of humor We would like to thank the medical staff at the Pontchartrain Cancer Center and Mary Bird Perkins for their car‐ing treatment, as well as the staff at the Phoenix Living Center and Modern Home Health and Hospice for their loving care of her. Relatives and friends are ‐

Cancer Center Mary Bird Perkins for their car‐ing treatment as well as the staff at the Phoenix Living Center and Modern Home Health and Hospice for their loving care of her Relatives and friends are invited to attend the visita‐tion held at Harry McK‐neely & Son Funeral Home, 2000 N. Morrison Blvd Hammond, LA 70401, on Fri‐day March 7, 2025 at 8:30 am - 10:20 am, with a Fu‐neral Mass held at St Do‐minic Catholic Church, 55720 Hwy. 445, Husser Louisiana 70442 at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at St Dominic Catholic Church Cemetery

Duplessis, Lola Mae Casey

Lola Mae Casey Dup‐

lessis entered eternal rest on Sunday February 23 2025 at 12:49pm Wife of the late George Duplessis Sr. Loving mother of Tyrone Duplessis, Orlando (Ros‐alind) Duplessis, Stanley (Sonia) Duplessis, Char‐lene (Charles) Dorsey, Dar‐lene Casey, Kendall (Cren‐isha) Casey, Randell (Samauria) Duplessis and the late George (Mary) Du‐plessis, Jr. Daughter of the late Florence Casey and Adolf Butler Sister of Margie Robinson (Tyrone) Harriet (John) Dupart, Emily (Ulric) Bellaire Linda (Leroy) Benn, Morgan (Lu‐cinda) Casey and the late Judy, Clarence, and Cheryl Casey Goddaughter of Ellen Louis Jones Also sur‐vived by 20 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and friends Age 71. A na‐tive and lifelong of Algiers LA. Lola was a graduate of L.B Landry High School She was also a retiree of Orleans Parish School Board Lola had a beautiful life here on earth until her Heavenly Father called her home. Lola enjoyed her life to the fullest. She felt that life was a gift, and she was grateful for every minute that the Lord gave her. She enjoyed spending time with her family and most of all her children and grandchildren Relatives, friends of the family, Pas‐tors, Ofﬁcers and Members of Victory Christian Center International and New Mil‐lennium Community Church are invited to the Homegoing Services at 10:00am on Saturday March 8, 2025, at Victory Christian Center Interna‐tional, 411 Opelousas Av‐enue, New Orleans, LA 70114. Bishop L. John Phoenix-Host Pastor and Elder Randy A Stevenson Pastor of New Millennium Community Church-Ofﬁci‐ating. Visitation from 8:00am until service time Interment Restlawn Park Cemetery,3540 US-90, Avon‐dale, LA 70094.

Elliott, James

James Elliott, age 73, transitioned to his Heav‐enly Home on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at home surrounded by his family and friends He worked with the City of New Or‐leans Sanitation Dept for over 30 years and with the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Dept for 20 years, until re‐tirement James is pre‐ceded in eternal life by his parents, John Sr and Ver‐non Mae Elliott; wife, Eve‐lyn Stewart Elliott; 2 chil‐dren, James Elliott Jr and Tanyana Elliott Green; and 2 grandchildren Elijah El‐liott and Messiah Howard James leaves to cherish his memories his ﬁancé, Juanita Smith; 2 children, Toka Elliott Howard (Will) and Mutsey Elliott; 3 sib‐lings Cherry Mae Elliott Higgins (Larry), John Elliott Jr (Andrea), and Timothy Elliott (Denise); 5 grand‐children Jaranesha and Jasmine Cooley, Joenae and Joseph Green, and Reign Howard; and a host of great grandchildren, stepchildren nieces nephews, other relatives and friends Relatives and friends of the family are all invited to attend his Cele‐bration of Life Service on Friday March 7, 2025 10:00AM, at Professional Funeral Services, 1449 N Claiborne Ave, NOLA. Visi‐tation will be held from 9:00AM until the hour of service Interment Mount Olivet Cemetery and Mau‐

Friday, March 7, 2025, 10:00AM at Professional Funeral Services, 1449 N. Claiborne Ave NOLA Visi‐tation will be held from 9:00AM until the hour of service. Interment Mount Olivet Cemetery and Mau‐soleum, New Orleans, LA Please visit www pfsnewo rleans com to Sign Guest‐book and/or Order Flowers Services Entrusted to: Pro‐fessional Funeral Services Celebrating Life” 1449 N Claiborne Ave., New Or‐leans LA 70116. 504-9487447. compan Pete Campise, children: Michael Edward Salles (Martina) and Joei Hill Bradley (Abra‐ham) grandchildren: Devin Melancon, Kobie Melancon and Torin Williams, sisters: Patricia Lazarre (Charles), and

Fischer Jr., Eugene 'Gene'

Eugene “Gene” Fischer, Jr. of Metairie Louisiana passed away peacefully, on February 28, 2025 at the age of 84. He was preceded in death by his parents, Eu‐gene Fischer, Sr and Juanita Harris Fischer, his beloved son Eugene John Fischer, and his son-in-law, George Bradbury. He is sur‐vived by his beloved wife of 62 years, Joann Fischer his daughters, Kathy Fis‐cher Bradbury and Betsy A Fischer, and his grand‐daughters, Sarah Bradbury Emily Bradbury, Ella Fis‐cher, and Gabrielle Fischer A proud graduate of War‐ren Easton High School, Gene later joined his father in founding Fischer’s Jew‐elry, building a family busi‐ness that became a cher‐ished part of the commu‐nity. Gene had a deep pas‐sion for fishing his dogs Mardi Gras and LSU foot‐ball. He never met a fish he did not want to catch, a dog he did not want to pet, a parade he did not want to ride in or an LSU game that he did not watch Whether casting a line, spending time with his four-legged friends, throw‐ing beads or cheering for the Tigers, he embraced life with warmth and en‐thusiasm Gene partici‐pated in Mardi Gras to the fullest He was Sargon of the Knights of Babylon, Boss” of the Phunny Phorty Phellows, Float Lieutenant in Hermes, and Captain of DSMCCI, his club that rode on Mardi Gras day and the St Patrick’s Parade on Metairie Road He also be‐longed to several other Mardi Gras organizations He served as escort for his wife, daughters and grand‐daughters when they were presented as Queen and Maids He was a Fourth De‐gree member of the Knights of Columbus Bi‐enville Province at St Christopher Parish #4508, Order of the Alhambra, and the Fireman’s Charitable and Benevolent Associa‐tion and Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Gene’s warmth generosity and love for life will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His memory will live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many lives he touched Family and friends are in‐vited to attend funeral ser‐vices at St Christopher the Martyr Catholic Church, 309 Manson Avenue Metairie, LA 70001. Visita‐tion will begin at 10:30 am on Friday, March 7, 2025, followed by a Catholic mass at 12:30 pm to honor Gene’s life Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, the family requests masses or donations to St Christopher the Martyr Church 309 Manson Av‐enue, Metairie, LA 70001 or Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, 411 North Rampart, New Orleans, LA 70112. For condolences, visit www greenwoodfh com

In Loving Memory of Gaylord Anthony Foley July 23, 1949 -February 25, 2025 After acourageous30year battle with cancer, Gaylord Anthony Foley transitioned peacefully in the comfort of his home on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at the age of 75. Born on July 23, 1949, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Gaylord was the beloved son of the late Delores C. and Arthur Armstrong Foley. Adevoted father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend, he was a family-oriented man whose unmatched personality left alasting impression on everyone he encountered. His warmth generosity, and humor made him deeply loved by all who knew him. Gaylord received hiseducation through the New Orleans Catholic and public school systems. Atrue jack-of-all-trades, he found joy and purpose in many skills—whether bartending, cooking, laboring, or working as amechanic, he was always willing to lend ahelping hand, especially to his family. At the young age of 19, he met and married Donna Foley, with whom he shared twodaughters, Crystal and Anissa Foley. Soon after, he found the love of his life, Brenda J. Adams, his cherished partner of 50 years. Together, they built abeautiful life and welcomed three children: Tory Adams Foley, Shannell Adams, and Gaylord Adams. Gaylord had asimple yet fulfilling routine that brought him joy. He spent countless afternoons under the 610 bridge, playing Spades andDominoes with family andfriends, creating memories filled with laughter and friendly competition. But above all else, his greatest joy was being with his family, especially his grandchildren,who were the light of his life. A man of deep faith, he was amember of St. Raymond/ St. Leo Catholic Church, where he found peacein prayer and meditation with the rosary. Gaylord leaves behind a loving legacyinhis children, Crystal andAnissa Foley, Tory(Latrice) Foley,

Catchings, Robert Earl 'Pete'

Davis Jr., Huel Anthony

Duhe, Sylvia Sanchez

Flores, Alma Christina

Alma Christina Flores, also known as Christie Simsick, passed away on February 24, 2025, at the age of 80. She was born on December 19, 1944, to the late Angelo Flores and the late Roby Hill Flores. She was preceded in death by her parents, son, Derek Philip Melancon, and sis‐ter, Gwendolyn Jochum (Edgar) She is survived by her companion, Pete Campise, children: Michael

Salles (Martina), and Joei Hill Bradley (Abra‐ham), grandchildren:

Melancon, Kobie Melancon and Torin Williams sisters: Patricia Lazarre (Charles),

Charbonnet, Gloria

In Loving Memory of Gloria Charbonnet: August 12, 1930- February 13, 2025 In the early hours of Thurs‐

champion of justice, left

where he found peace in prayer and meditation with the rosary.

Gaylord leaves behind a loving legacy in his children, Crystal and Anissa Foley, Tory(Latrice) Foley, Shannell(Corey), and Gaylord Adams; his cherished sisters, Cheryl Rivera and Stephanie Jackson; his nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren; and ahost of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. He is reunited in eternal rest with his parents, Delores and Arthur Foley, his loving partner, Brenda Adams, and his brothers, Vernon Foley Sr. and Arthur Foley Jr. Though his physical presence willbemissed, the love, laughter, and wisdom he shared willforever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Jack Arthur

Jack Arthur Garitty passed awayonFebruary 26, 2025, at the age of 21. He is survived by his parents, Arthur Edward Garitty and Kathryn Pardo Garitty; three siblings, Claire, Charlieand Caroline; his grandmother, Joan Wolfe Garitty; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. He was predeceased by his paternal grandfather, Earl J. Garitty, Jr., and his maternal grandparents, Joseph F. Pardo, Sr. and Rita E. Pardo. He graduated from Christian Brothers School and then Jesuit High School, magna cum laude. He attended LSU in Baton Rouge, where he was on the Dean's List every semester. He began his first semester at LSU School of Nursing in New Orleans in January 2025 where he was pursuing a bachelor's degree in nursing. His goal was to become acertified registered nurse anesthetist. Jack was abeautiful soul with many talents. He had asophisticated sense of style and took great pride in his curated fashion. Jack had an artistic eye that could pick up on the most minute and beautiful details that most people would miss; his selftaught photography skills were exceptional.Hewas playful and comical.At home, each member of his family and each of his pets were given outlandishly silly nicknames. He had the keen ability to blend his artistic talents with his wit to create comic book style journals documenting his most memorable (and sometimes most uncomfortable) lifeexperiences such as his adventures during aforced weeklong Boy Scout camping trip in the mountains of North Carolina and his middle school boy relationship with his parents. These journals produced uncontrollable belly laughs. Jack championed the less fortunate and those who were ignored in society. He thought nothing of giving an entire month's wages from his part-time job to ahomeless woman and her children living under I-10; or helping other people in his collegemath class whom no one would talk to, much less even notice. While Jack was areserved person in public, he gave his full heart and soul to those who were close to him. Jack is painfully missed by all who had the privilege to gettoreally know him.

Relatives and friends of the familyare invited to attend afuneral mass at St. Philip Neri Church, 6500 Kawanee Ave., Metairie, Louisiana, on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 12:00 p.m., with visitation starting at 10:00 a.m. Interment at Greenwood Cemetery Mausoleum will immediately follow the service.In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Ozanam Inn or Covenant House.

Mandeville LA passed away on Sunday, March 2, 2025 at his home sur‐rounded by family. Billy was 78 years old. Billy was born in Bassfield, MS to the late James Elbert Geiger and Mamie Speights Geiger in 1946. Billy relo‐cated to Baton Rouge, LA in 1965. He married the late Helen Ruth Sinclair on Oc‐tober 28, 1965 and was married for 53 wonderful years Billy was preceded in death by his son Gary Geiger, his siblings, Bobby Geiger and Doris Bozeman and his grandsons Lincoln and Bennett Geiger Billy is survived by his son, Brent Geiger (Ginger) of Mandev‐ille, LA; his grandchildren Corey Geiger (Gabrielle), Lindsey Geiger Wagues‐pack (Aubert), Alicia Geiger (Dylan Payne), Mon‐ica Geiger, Maxwell Geiger; and great grandchildren Aubrey, Bliss, and Cruz Waguespack and Gavin and Nolan Geiger and Everly and Kai Payne. Billy was a devoted husband and family man Billy served in the Mississippi National Guard and spent his career as a project manager for Percy J Math‐erne Construction Billy was awarded Superinten‐dent of the Year in 1991 Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Funeral Service on Fri‐day, March 7, 2025 at 11:00 at E J Fielding Funeral Home, 2260 West 21st Av‐enue Covington, LA. The visitation will begin at 9:00 am until service time. In‐terment will follow in Pinecrest Memorial Gar‐dens, adjacent to the fu‐neral home. In lieu of flow‐ers the family request do‐nations to be made to Louisiana Baptist Chil‐dren’s Home in Monroe, LA, P O Box 4196, Monroe LA 71211, www ldch org. E.J Fielding Funeral Home has been entrusted with fu‐neral arrangements Please sign the guestbook at www ejfieldingfh.com

Frank

Frank was returnedto his maker at the age of 88. He diedonFebruary 25, 2025 after avaliant battle with Esophageal and Liver Cancer. Frank was born on December 4. 1936 in New Orleans, Louisiana and raised his family in Metairie as along-time parishionerinSt. Angela Merici Parish. After his home flooded after Hurricane Katrina, he relocated "North of I-12" to his weekend hideaway in Franklinton and wasa fulltime resident of Washington Parish until his death. He is preceded in death by hisparents, Frank and Alida Gennusa, his first wife,Mary Louise Geraci Gennusa, daughterin-law, Diane Gennusa, sister, Linda Schomburg, and stepson Torry Richoux. Frank is survived by his second wife, Deborah Richoux Gennusa; his beloved children, Frank Paul Gennusa, III (Kae)of Kingwood, Texas, Mary Louise Gennusa Rasch (Tim) of Pearl River, Louisiana, and Lisa Maria Gennusa Ledet (Ronnie)of Kenner, Louisiana; cherished "Paw-Paw" of Tony Gennusa (Cheska), Joey Gennusa, Emily Rasch, Ashleigh Ledet-Cheng (Reuben), Allison Ledet, Amelia Ledet Manuel (Troy), and AndrewLedet; and blessed great- grandfather of Beckham Gennusa, Baylen Gennusa, and Jack Manuel. He is also survived by his stepchildren, Dannell Rome (Dago), and Brandon Richoux (Christie); step-grandchildren, Curt Rome (Kristina), ChristopherRome, Parker Richoux, and Libby Richoux; and 8step great grandchildren. He was also the proud big brotherof Alida Culpepper,Bernard Gennusa, and the late Linda Schomburg. Frank was agraduate of St. Henry Grammar School, De La Salle High School (1954), and Loyola University (1958) where he earned aBachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration whileworking full-time at Winn Dixie. He was amemberofAlpha Delta Gamma Social Fraternity at Loyola. His business careerwas in wholesale sales management in the motor truck industry. He was employed by International Harvester from 1958-1965 and Ford Motor Company as Heavy Truck SalesManager for the Gulf South area from 1965 until his retirement in 1997. Frank's career enabledhim to meet many people throughout Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida,and

the Gulf Southarea from 1965 until his retirement in 1997. Frank's career enabled him to meet many people throughout Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, and Arkansas. He was an 8year veteran of the Navy and finished his military career flying as acrew member in an anti-submarine squadron (VS 822) stationed at Alvin Callender Field in Belle Chasse. A long-standing member of the Knights of Columbus since the1960s, Frank served as Treasurer and Grand Knight of Ludovicum Chapter at St. Louis King of France. Upon relocating to Franklinton, he joined the Father John Leblanc Council at Holy Family Catholic Church. Frank spent many enjoyable hours of entertaining discussions withhis friends at the Bonnabel Boat Launch as afounding member of the"Medicare Country Club" at that famous storytelling venue on Lake Pontchartrain. He and his friends that have gone before him will haveeternity to muse their many adventures on Lake Pontchartrain and other byways ofthe great Louisiana outdoors. "May all the trout be mules, the blue crab claws number ones, the shrimp 21-26 count, all thebucks 8 pointsand above, and the ducks decoying in droves". While Frank's business was "Big Truck Sales", his passion was hunting and fishing. He enjoyed duck hunting, decoy carving, chasing themightywhite tail deer, and the willey turkey. There was never an outdoor seasonthat did not get his attention. We would be remiss if we did not mention squirrel and rabbit hunting withhis beagle "Buck", his beloved companion for 13 years, who was aFather's Day gift from his children. In 1985, he obtained his own patch of the woods in Franklinton and learned how to hunt and fish from dry land. He also grew vegetables and sweet melons on the "land" called "Easy Living." From bush hogging on his Ford tractor to having a"cold drink" around the campfire, "Easy Living" was his sedative, along with God and his family, gave him thestrength to face life's challenges. Frank's motto in life was, "It's better to be lucky than smart-but if God gave you both, you are truly blessed." He loved his family, friends, Faith, and country. "Long may they live in freedom". The visitation will be on Saturday, March 8, 2025 at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home from 10 a.m. until the funeral mass at noon. The interment will take place privately at LakeLawn Park Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St.Jude Children's Research Hospital.

John Robert Hayes Jr. was born on January 11, 1939, in New Orleans, Louisiana and resided in Mandeville, Louisiana for 30 years. He passed away peacefully on March 2, 2025, in Covington, Louisiana. John led afulfilling life, marked by adedicated career at Jefferson Parish Waterworks from which he retired.He served in the US Navy, a commitment that reflected his strong sense of duty and service to his country. John had many interests; he loved fishing and cherished spending timewith family and friends. He was known to be afrequent visitor at Rouses in Mandeville and Burger King in Covington, where he enjoyed meeting up with family and friendsfor coffee and breakfast. John was also an activemember of Our Ladyofthe Lake Catholic Church. John is survived by his children, John J. Hayes (Angel) and Wayne G. Pfeiffer (Ginger). His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Andrea Vanderhorst Lonnie Kahoe Jr., Dylan Hayes, Wesley (Deishon) Pfeiffer, and Heather Pfeiffer. He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren, Jackson Vanderhorst, Owen Vanderhorst, Cameron Pfeiffer, and Jayden Pfeiffer as well as his brother Marvin Pickle. John was preceded in death by his beloved spouse of 47 years, Carol Ockman Hayes. He was also reunited with his parents, John R. Hayes, Sr. and

his brother Marvin Pickle. John was preceded in death by his beloved spouse of 47 years, Carol Ockman Hayes. He was also reunited with his parents, John R. Hayes, Sr. and ElizabethHearn Hayes Higgins, as well as his siblings, Helen P. Giardina, ElizabethLasavia, Vivian H. Dietze, Addie H. Nemeth, Goldie H. Meunier, and Janette Pickle. His life will be honored with a Visitation on March 8, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, followed by aFuneral Service that will begin at 10:00 AM, all taking place at Bagnell &Son Funeral Home 75212 Hwy 437 Covington, Louisiana. Burial to followinthe Pinecrest Cemetery. John R. Hayes Jr. will be remembered for his warm spirit, love of family, and the countless memories shared withthose he cherished.

Herasymiuk, Mary

Mary Herasymiuk passed away on February 17, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, dedication and professional excel‐lence A devoted mother and cherished grand‐mother, Mary held the es‐teemed position of Presi‐dent at Gulf X-Ray Services until her retirement, con‐tributing significantly to the Non-Destructive Test‐ing (NDT) industry throughout her career Her influence extended beyond her professional life; she was actively involved in her community demon‐strating her passion for service as a member of the Red Hat Society and the American Society of NonDestructive Testing (ASNT), where she volunteered countless hours, particu‐larly in the local New Or‐leans “Crawfish” section Mary was a devoted mother to her children: John Paul Herasymiuk (Nikole), Jane H. Kynoch (John), William Charles Herasymiuk (Susan), and Edwin James Herasymiuk (Tricia) As a grandmother, she brought joy and warmth to the lives of Ilaria Andreas William Catherine, Camille, Caro‐line, Walter Lucy Emmett and Colin Her familial bonds were central to her life, and she nurtured a strong kinship with her sib‐lings, Janice C. Sallade and Carl Christian. Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, W Nestor Herasymiuk along with her parents, Gaylord Christian Sr. and Jane Christian She also mourned the loss of her brothers, Gaylord "Skip Christian Jr. and Herbert Butch" Christian, whose memories remained dearly valued Friends, family members of ASNT, and cus‐tomers of Gulf X-Ray Ser‐vices, Inc. are invited to at‐tend the visitation on March 7, 2025, from 9:00 a.m until 11:00 a.m at Mothe Funeral Homes, LLC, 2100 Westbank Expy. Har‐vey, LA A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m Mary will then be interred at Westlawn Memorial Park, 1225 Whitney Ave Gretna, LA 70056. Mary Herasymiuk's life was one of remarkable accomplish‐ments entwined with deep familial love, and she will be sorely missed by all who knew her.

Jackson Sr., Todd Emanuel

Todd Emanuel Jackson, Sr. age 61, was born on September 23, 1963, in New Orleans, LA transitioned on Thursday, February 20 2025, unexpectedly at his home in Harvey Louisiana He graduated from Walter L Cohen High School and was employed for Horn‐beck Offshore Operators LLC as a Chef Supervisor Todd leaves to forever cherish his precious mem‐ories: his beloved wife Christine Jackson daugh‐ter, Toddra Jackson, two sons, Todd Jackson Jr. Tyron Green, six grandchil‐dren, sister Paula Jackson brothers Steven Jackson and Mark Jackson and his dog Chanel Also survived by a host of nieces nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends. He was pre‐ceded in death by his

ers Steven son and Mark Jackson, and his dog Chanel Also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles cousins, other relatives and friends He was pre‐ceded in death by his mother, Birdie Lee Jackson, father William Floyd Jack‐son, brothers Keith Jack‐son William Jackson and sister Lisa Jackson Rela‐tives and friends of the family, Pastors, ofﬁcers and members, and all neighboring churches are invited to attend the Cele‐bration of Life Service on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at Gertrude Geddes Willis Fu‐neral Home, Inc in charge at 12:30 p.m Visitation from 11:30 a.m until 12:30 p.m Interment Restlawn Park Cemetery, 3540 US-90, Avondale LA 70094. You may sign the guest book on www gertrudegeddesw illis.com Gertrude Geddes Willis Funeral Home, Inc., in charge (504) 522-2525.

Johnson, Carolyn Leona

Carolyn Leona Johnson entered eternal rest on Sunday, February 9, 2025 at the age of 85. She was a native of New Orleans LA a former resident of Mar‐rero, LA, and presently re‐siding in Pensacola, FL Carolyn was a graduate of Magnolia High School class of 1957. She retired after 50 years as a Certiﬁed Nurs‐ing Assistant Beloved wife of the late Joseph Johnson Devoted mother of Jonathan Growe, Keven Growe, Rhondalyn Williams and Joanne John‐son Grandmother of the late Quamane Stevens Daughter of the late Ames Growe and Leona Hodges Sister of Hazel Alvarez, Mary Louise “Marie” Williams and the late Catherine “Sadie”, Char‐lotte Elnora, Mable Norna Alfred, Ames Jr., Cleveland, James and John. Mother in law of Robert Williams, Sr Carolyn is also survived by 6 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren 1 great great grandchild, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and friends Relatives and friends of the family also pastors, ofﬁcers, and members of Rock of Ages Baptist Church, Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church, and all neighbor‐ing churches are invited to attend the Celebration of Life at Rock of Ages Baptist Church, 6533 Acre Rd., Mar‐rero, LA on Friday, March 7, 2025, at 10:00 a.m Visita‐tion will begin at 8:30 a.m at the above-named church Interment: Wood‐lawn Park Memorial Ceme‐tery-Westwego LA Arrangements by Davis Mortuary Service, 230 Mon‐roe St. Gretna LA To view and sign the guestbook please go to davismortu‐aryservice.com. Face masks are recommended

Johnston, Denise Mary Jacques

rounded by her lifelong sweetheart and devoted husband of 58 years, Lloyd Johnston; adored sons, Lloyd, Jr. Michael (Kellie) and grandchildren. She was a loving and dedicated mother to her sons, proud grandmother to Brice, Kryslyn and Kyler and a caring step-grandmother to Kirk, Madison and Ethan She held the special role of Godmother to brother An‐thony Jacques; nephews, Eric Hutchison Jr and Win‐ston McKissick Denise was a lifelong participant in the New Orleans public school system, from the May pageants at Valena C Jones Elementary School through graduation from Joseph S. Clark Senior High School. In 1964, she com‐pleted her studies at Dil‐lard University and ex‐celled as a health and physical education teacher for 36 years. Her leadership skills and passion fostered her election as chairman of the Department of Health and Physical Education for nearly two decades. In ad‐dition to her parents Denise is also preceded in death by siblings, Betty Francis, Alma Woodfork, Alva Morrison and Mari‐anne Newman; in-laws Ronald and Jean Cuneo Johnston In addition to her husband, children and grandchildren other sur‐vivors include, siblings, Dorthy Perrault (Harry), Dr Beverly Anderson (Dr Ronald) Alvin Jacques Darlene Hutchison (Eric) and Anthony Jacques (Robin); in-laws, Edward and Antoinette James Johnston She is also the self-appointed and wel‐comed "nanny" to a host of nieces, nephews and cousins who mourn her passing. Denise had a rare combination of strength and compassion that made her a great inspiration and source of comfort to those around her She cherished her church activities and served as a Eucharistic Minister at St. Ray‐mond/St Leo The Great Catholic Church She also enjoyed spending time with her loved ones partic‐ularly playing cards with her sisters and friends Denise's legacy of love, faith and dedication will live on in the hearts of those she touched A Mass of

sitioned on Wednesday February 26,

and

Devoted

and

Denise Mary Jacques Johnston was born to the late Alvin and Dorothy Jacques on August 21, 1942. She passed away on Thursday, February 27, 2025 at the age of 82, sur‐rounded by her lifelong sweetheart and devoted husband of 58 years, Lloyd Johnston; adored sons, Lloyd, Jr. Michael (Kellie) and grandchildren She was a loving and dedicated mo gran Kry car to K She God thon Eric ston wa in t scho Ma Jone thro Jose Scho plet lard cell phys for skil her election as chairman of the Department of Health and Physical Education for nearly two decades. In ad‐

Damien and Dominique

nard and the late

dolyn Morris. Great-grand father of 10 that

See more DEATHS, page

Garitty,

Gennusa,

Paul 'Sonny'

Kent Sr., Wendolyn

Wendolyn Kent Sr. tran‐

2025 at West Jefferson Medical Center surrounded by his family Leaving behind a legacy rich in love, resilience

unwavering devotion to his family

faith Loving husband of Adell M. Kent

father of Wen‐dolyn Kent, Jr. (Shirley), Derrick Kent Sr (Keyon) Cedric Kent (Rakishia),

Natasha Benard Beloved brother of Barbara Reece Yolanda Blackwell, Vanessa Kent, Marvin (Brenda), Otis (Christina), Campanella Sr (Trudy) Charles (Gail), Aaron (Col‐ithia) and the late Walter Sr. (Ruby) and Grady Billy Kent (Dian) Grandfather to Keshon Kent, Keith Kent, Landen Kent, Keondra Kent, Derrick Kent, Jr Dr Glenn Martin, Jr. Corey Martin Lundyn Howard

Hayes Jr., John R.

Geiger, Billy Charles

Billy Charles Geiger of Mandeville, LA passed away on Sunday, March 2

at his home

rounded by family

Billy was born in Bassﬁeld, MS to the late James Elbert Geiger and Mamie Speights

A secure Mardi Gras season like no

ter less than four hours into the new year, days before the ofﬁcial Carnival season started on Jan. 6. Fourteen people were killed as the domestic terrorist drove a rented truck from Canal Street onto a sidewalk and then along the street until it hit construction equipment.

The Feb. 9 NFL Super Bowl at the Caesars Superdome had the nation’s highest security protection — a level one Special Event Assessment Rating (SEAR), the highest potential threat rating the government can assign to any event guaranteeing extensive federal support.

Soon after the attack, President Joe Biden granted the city of New Orleans a SEAR 1 rating for the entire Carnival and Mardi Gras season through Mardi Gras.

President Donald Trump’s Department of Homeland Security stepped up to provide the city with a team of ﬁre and explosives investigators, engineers, bomb-snifﬁng dogs and other expertise to keep the city safe.

The parade season went on as it has in recent years, but for a few incidents and a curtailed Mardi Gras celebration with the Krewe of Zulu and the Rex organization rolling earlier than normal and with fewer marching and walking participants so eager parade-goers could enjoy two of the best parades before rather ferocious high winds and tornado threats made things dangerous later in the morning.

With presidential backing — and cooperation between Gov Jeff Landry and Mayor LaToya Cantrell — New Orleans had beefed-up security Normally Mardi Gras has a level two rating, and the city got additional federal assistance and resources.

Cantrell argued in 2019 that Carnival season was unlike other events nationwide and therefore deserving of a SEAR 1 rating. When the SEAR 1 designation was announced, Cantrell said “Mardi Gras 2025 is going to be the safest ever.”

Sadly, Mardi Gras weekend was not totally without incident.

In Franklinton Sunday, there was a mass shooting with ﬁve people injured and one person arrested. In Mamou in Evangeline Parish, a Mardi Gras Zydeco concert was interrupted Tuesday night when a shooting near the stage killed two people and injured about a dozen others.

In New Orleans, there were shootings that did not seem to be connected to Mardi Gras parades during the day

These acts should not detract, however, from the tremendous amount of work by Landry, Cantrell, New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick, Attorney General Liz Murrill and an array of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to make sure the festivities were devoid of major security breaches With tens of thousands of visitors in New Orleans and surrounding areas, this was no small feat. We wish there had been no incidents throughout the weekend and on Mardi Gras, but thanks to cooperation at all levels, this may have been the safest Mardi Gras in recent history. New Orleans needs a SEAR 1 rating for future Carnival seasons.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ARE WELCOME. HERE ARE OUR GUIDELINES: Letters are published identifying name, occupation and/or title and the writer’s city of residence

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

At Entergy, we’re proud to help power Louisiana’s homes, businesses and communities. Behind the electricity that lights up our state are thousands of employees working hard to support their families. Finding high-quality and affordable child care is a persistent challenge for many of my employees with young children.

The inability to access early childhood education has a ripple effect: Employee absenteeism rises, productivity falls and the broader economy suffers. Business loss calculators, such as the one developed by the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children, estimate that child care issues cost businesses millions of dollars annually — and Entergy is no exception. Lost work hours and turnover tied to child care gaps cause our company to lose approximately $14 million annually, which has a stiﬂing effect on our impact. With a high-yielding return on investment, early childhood education is

From the inception of our democracy, one common powerful theme prevails “We the people.”

The Declaration of Independence states that “governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed.”

Our Constitution purposely begins with those words. The power that dictates how our government operates comes from us.

Our democracy has been battle-tested and saved by the blood and sacriﬁce of our people throughout its existence. Lincoln’s words say it best: “that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain that this nation, under God, shall have a new

one of the most cost-effective ways to strengthen Louisiana’s economy and support working families. Its impact on today’s workforce is why we were proud to be the title sponsor of Early Ed Month in February

However there is more underneath the impact on working parents and employers; children beneﬁt from early education, too.

Studies show that children thrive and are better set up for success in school and beyond when they have experienced high-quality early learning programs. This is how we build a talented workforce for the future.

As business leaders, we must create solutions that beneﬁt employees and communities. Together, we can ensure that every child and every working parent — has the opportunity to thrive. Let’s power a brighter future for Louisiana.

PHILLIP MAY president and CEO Entergy Louisiana

birth of freedom — and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

We should never forget this. Abandon a victim mentality Know and use your power We the people must be vocal and involved all of us. Peacefully, legally, actively Stay vigilant. Roughly 35% of eligible voters nationwide do not vote. No politician or party can claim they have a mandate when less than 50% of the eligible population votes for them. Communicate with and critique your elected ofﬁcials. Hold them accountable. Make your presence felt.

STEVE PEARCE

Mandeville

Musk’s vision favors billionaires over the rest of us

I agree with Josie Abugov’s article on Feb. 10 on offshore wind projects. I would like to add that we, American citizens of this great yet troubled nation, need to start looking for better representatives for all of us, who will work for all Americans, not just half of us who voted for them. In the future, we will need more energy, be it oil, wind, gas, solar — all forms of energy Since 2016, our representatives in Washington keep giving us less desirable choices to vote for, (Democrat and Republican). We need to work together rather than ﬁght each other on every topic or policy that is put forth.

One president comes in and wipes out everything the previous president set, and then, four or eight years later, same thing. This is unsustainable. Oil gives us much more than pollution and greenhouse gases. We get plastics, pharmaceuticals, feedstocks, asphalts. There are over 6,000 products, including our hightech devices which we cannot live without, that come from oil. Also, we will need more and more energy in all forms in the future. We need to work together rather than ﬁght each other to accomplish this.

Washington, please give us someone to vote for who will work for the entire country DARREL JULES LEGER Lafayette

TO SEND US A LETTER, SCAN HERE

It appears Elon Musk has been given unlimited power over the U.S. government, including the president and the Congress. It is astounding what $280 million (although amounts vary on a fact check) will buy a person. We, the average citizens, are being punished by all the cuts and freezes taking place. Congress seems comfortable or perhaps knee-capped by his power I wonder, when Musk wakes up one day and

decides on a whim that cutting salaries and beneﬁts to members of the House and Senate is necessary to reduce spending, if the tune will miraculously change. During the campaign, when the president and the vice president referred to “they/them,” “them” was all inclusive. All of us are “them.” I could make a joke about knowing your pronouns, but this isn’t the time.

SUSAN BENSINGER New Orleans

A recent letter writer stated: “prochoice does not mean pro-abortion.”

Actually pro-choice is open-ended. Everyone was created by God with a free will to make choices about everything they do, resulting in a world full of saints and sinners.

The choice to kill a pre-born human being is called abortion. Therefore, if you believe in the choice to kill a pre-born person, you are proabortion. People who are pro-abortion should consider why they would rather be called pro-choice instead of pro-abortion.

MARY LANDRY Harahan

Parents want, and deserve, new school choice program

A boffo early response to the LA GATOR education program is a reminder that the biggest advantage of school choice programs is yes, the ability to choose. Choice is a good in itself, even before the social scientists tally test scores and graduation rates The LA GATOR (Giving All True Opportunity to Rise) program creates scholarship accounts that eligible students can use for tuition or other education-related expenses such as textbooks, computers, supplies, tutoring and uniforms They can be used for private schools or for individual offerings at public schools, or for costs relating to home-schooling LA GATOR replaces an existing state voucher program that has drawn spirited criticism amid unimpressive results on standardized testing Proponents of choice, though, say the old program was badly designed, with far too many restrictions and stultifying regulations They say LA GATOR, by contrast, will be open to more participants, at more schools, for more purposes.

Erin Bendily of The Pelican Institute think tank wrote on the group’s website that it is “a very different program than the old voucher system.” She said participating schools must meet significant standards, but they won’t need to show as much “deference to top-down, heavy-handed pressure from the state to conform to the public-school model.” Even the old program made most parents considerably happier than they were with their children’s previously assigned schools. Bendily wrote that more than 93% of families in the voucher program reported they were either “satisfied” or “very satisfied.” Parents may be considering factors such as a school’s safety or disciplinary rules, its perceived “school spirit,” its values or educational emphases or any number of other concerns. And

that’s the point. Parents, not central bureaucrats or designers of arbitrary district lines, should be presumed to know what is best, in toto, for their children — and either way, parents should have the right to choose. The Supreme Court in Meyer v. Nebraska in 1923 rightly recognized what the case summary called “the right of parents to control the upbringing of their child as they see fit.” In a free society, the ability to make essential choices free from overweening state control is a central, bedrock value. It also is true that regarding school choice, parents now have a significant amount of nationwide data available to inform their decisions. Oft-times, the measurable differences between results from “choice” systems and those from traditional public schools are small, but the overall trend is telling. EdChoice, a preeminent national advocate of scholarships, vouchers, charter schools and the like, has an excellent reputation for accuracy Rather than do its own study, it compiled results from numerous high-quality analyses of choice programs conducted by respected outside researchers. It found that in studies analyzing test scores in 17 private-school choice systems, 11 found at least small improvements, compared to four with no change and just two with at least small declines In eight studies of the effects on racial integration, seven showed improved integration and one showed no change. All eight that looked at school safety found improvements. Thirty-one of 33 found improved parental satisfaction. And, despite rampant predictions that choice programs would bleed public treasuries, 69 of 75 actually showed improved “fiscal effects.” Indeed, this finding comports well with another more in-depth EdChoice analysis showing such widespread fiscal benefits

to state treasuries that 48 education choice programs studied “saved state and local taxpayers” as much as “$45.6 billion since their inception through FY 2022.”

Either way, the response of Louisiana families to the new LA GATOR program has been stunning.

The old voucher program served just 5,693 families. Yet after LA GATOR opened for applications last Saturday, March 1, it received more than 12,775 applicants by 8:15 Wednesday, a scant four days later and even in the midst of Carnival. Ted Beasley of the state Department of Education says of the those applications, 10,646 already were determined as eligible based on the information submitted, meaning the students either participated in the Louisiana Scholarship Program the previous school year are entering kindergarten, were enrolled in a public school the previous year or come from a family with total income at or below 250% of federal poverty guidelines.

In sum, choice is so popular that in four days, more than twice as many families applied than were served in the old program overall.

“Ultimately we have to remember that this is a parent-driven program,” Bendily said in a March 2 interview with The Times-Picayune | The Advocate. “Do families feel like their kids are making progress? Are they feeling that their kids are happy and engaged in learning? Those are going to be the most important indicators of success.” The remarkably strong initial interest shows that parents indeed expect the new education scholarships will be worthwhile. Louisiana is wise to give them that option.

Quin Hillyer is a columnist and editorial writer for The TimesPicayune | The Advocate. He can be reached at quin.hillyer@theadvocate. com

Living and praying by pope’s example

A papal deathwatch united us. It doesn’t seem as crass an observation now that Pope Francis has been rallying, but regardless of one’s politics or opinion of him specifically or the Catholic Church more generally, what looked for a weekend like the pontiff’s final hours appeared to put one person’s health not only on millions of our screens, but in our prayers. Cynically, I thought the attention would immediately go to scorecarding the next papal conclave (and Oscar possibilities for the recent movie about papal succession.) But as with the around-the-clock news coverage of Pope John Paul II’s final days, it appears some of us may still believe in something more and something like eternal hope and matters even more important than politics presidential or papal. I confess having sighed in relief that Francis’ final act as pontiff wasn’t to instruct recent Catholic convert Republican Vice President JD Vance on the order of love, in his Feb. 10 letter to the U.S. bishops on immigration. In U.S. Catholic circles, there would never be the end of that social media thread, from the right and left (for lack of a better way to describe “sides” in intra-Church debates).

And while Francis hasn’t been known to be the favorite of many a Western conservative, every evening in Rome, U.S. Cardinal Raymond Burke about as Western and conservative as they come, has been among those gathering in St. Peter’s Square daily praying for him.

George Weigel, the authority on all things John Paul II, referred to JPII’s ﬁnal years as his “last encyclical.” It was a living letter to the world about how to die. Similarly, we have seen Francis struggle in a wheelchair, in pain and now out-of-sight at a Roman hospital. Whereas the advocates of assisted suicide suggest that there is “mercy” in ending things when the going gets tough, watching someone so promi-

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR ARE

nently facing the last season of life as a necessary part of existence should give us pause. Pope Francis frequently makes headlines for talking about immigration and the environment, but one of the most consistent themes of his tenure has been to push back against our “throwaway” society As Francis issues messages and moves sainthood causes forward from Gemelli Hospital, he teaches us that life continues. The lack of suffering is not the point of human life. And see how he draws love out of a people who would otherwise be distracted and angry and jaded! How long Pope Francis will hang on remains unclear But as he prepares to

meet our maker, he reminds us there is so much more to life, and that there is hope beyond wherever our ideological leanings fall. When the pope between JPII and FI (if you will), Pope Benedict XVI, visited the United States, public transportation in the metro D.C. area proclaimed via an ad buy from the local archdiocese: “He who has hope lives differently.”

Or so it ought to be. And so, with living our deaths. May it be so — for Francis and for all we love, and are drawn out of ourselves to care for and care about.

Email Kathryn Jean Lopez at klopez@ nationalreview.com.

If Chinese leader Xi Jinping wanted to take down the U.S. auto industry — and he probably does — he couldn’t have a better helper than Donald Trump. The American president’s tireless efforts to slow America’s shift to electricity-run transportation is a dream come true for China as it leads the world in that transition. Electric vehicles are the cars and trucks of the future. In some parts of the world, that future is here. Norway now has more fully electric cars on its roads than the gas-powered kind.

China has put enormous resources behind the development and manufacture of EVs. The U.S. was on the case when Joe Biden was president. Trump is taking away those subsidies, thus messing with U.S. automakers’ big plans to compete in this growing market.

The politics of it are also wild.

About 80% of the Biden-era clean energy investments are in red states (or if they are rescinded, were).

In North Carolina Toyota just unveiled a $13.9 billion battery plant in the small town of Liberty Another maker of cutting-edge batteries will soon open near Raleigh, not far from a factory that builds charging infrastructure Trump also wants to take away money Congress appropriated for EV charging stations. That appears to be illegal, but Republicans in Congress seem more afraid of Trump than voters who could lose jobs.

But one Republican, Alabama’s Gov Kay Ivey, defends that funding. “Having strategic electric vehicle charging stations across Alabama not only beneﬁts EV drivers, but it also beneﬁts those companies that produce electric vehicles, including many of them right here in Alabama, resulting in more high-paying jobs for Alabamians.”

All true.

Some observers surmise that Elon Musk sees a personal gain in slowing down the growth of charging stations. His Tesla currently has the largest network of fast chargers in the country Adding chargers could help sales of EVs other than Elon’s.

Potentially hurting the American automakers are the 25% tariffs Trump is threatening to slap on the parts they get from Canada and Mexico. This shared production arrangement would make U.S. cars more price-competitive on world markets, thus protecting the jobs of American workers.

But get this: Musk is now suing the European Union over its decision to put hefty tariffs on EVs made in China Tesla, you see, makes more than half its EVs in China

MAGA has been brainwashed to see evil behind efforts to direct American drivers away from fossil fuels. As a self-pitying Arizonan told The Wall Street Journal, EVs are “being pushed down our throats.”

A Morning Consult poll taken last spring found that 4 in 10 Americans have unfavorable views of EVs. And 38% of those respondents said their political views were a factor

One must ask: What mean man is forcing Americans to buy electric vehicles? No one is stopping you or me from going to an auto showroom or used car lot and driving off with a 100% gas-powered machine.

Having the U.S. government help a new domestic industry is what we call economic policy When Henry Ford’s ﬁrst Model T rolled out of the factory in 1908, America had almost no paved roads beyond the cities.

Ford was a strong advocate for the kinds of roads his new cars needed to run on. He became the ﬁrst chairman of the Wayne County Road Commission. The Federal-Aid Road Act was passed in 1916 and the Federal-Aid Highway Act in 1921. Back to the present, sales of Chinese-made EVs rose 40% last year alone. China also has the world’s largest network of charging stations.

Something tells us President Xi Jinping likes the way things are going in the age of Trump. Froma Harrop is on X, @FromaHarrop. Email her at fharrop@gmail.com

Quin Hillyer

Kathryn Jean Lopez

Froma Harrop

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO

Candles are left outside the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, in Rome, where Pope Francis has been hospitalized since Feb 14.

Landen Kent, Keondra Kent, Derrick Kent, Jr. Dr. Glenn Martin, Jr. Corey Martin, Lundyn Howard Damien and Dominique Be‐nard and the late Wen‐dolyn Morris. Great-grand father of 10 that lovingly called him Paw Paw Kent Godfather of Katrina Kent and Campanella Kent, Jr Also survived by a host of nieces, nephews, other rel‐atives and friends Rela‐tives and friends of the family, also pastors, ofﬁ‐cers, and Members of Restoration Fellowship, Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, St Joseph the Worker Catholic Church Life Center Cathedral, United Fellowship First Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, Regular Baptist Church Hope in Zion Inter‐national Church Employ‐ees of West Jefferson Med‐ical Center, Carlo Ditta, Team Hair Benders Salon Rue Contractors MDL En‐terprises are invited to at‐tend the Funeral Services at Thompson Temple COGIC, 1515 Whitney Ave, Gretna, La 70053 on Satur‐day March 8, 2025. Visita‐tion from 9 am until time of service beginning at 10 am Interment: Restlawn Park Cemetery 3540 US 90 Avondale, LA 70094 Arrangements by D. W Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave. Please visit www rhodesfuneral com to sign the online guestbook

Grace Maria Lemieux, on Saturday, February 15, 2025, passed peacefully at her residence She was the daughter of the late William Henry Lemieux and Gertrude Marcelin Lemieux; maternal grand‐parents were Leopold C Marcelin and Cecilia Turner Marcelin and paternal grandparents were August Lemieux and Frances Fal‐goust Lemieux. Sister of Melba Lemieux Nevills (Earnest); aunt of Larry Eu‐gene Nevills (Telisha), Iri‐Jeanne Nevills Griffin-Clark (Kevin) and Akia Janai Nevills. Grace was the great aunt of Emari, Larry Landon Nevills, JaRiah and Jilahn Matthews and KevIri Rose Ann Griffin. Also she was special great aunt to Kailyn and Sydney Vinning She was godmother to niece Akia, Elena Fernan‐dez and Kyla A. Stewart She loved each and every one of them dearly and treated them all as her own. She is also survived by a host of relatives and faithful friends Grace Lemieux a retired teacher worked for 34 years in the New Orleans Public School System She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education (‘71), Early Childhood Certi‐fication (‘73); Master of Arts degree in Counseling and Guidance (‘79) and completed the Plus 30 hours in Administration and Supervision (‘82) All degrees were earned at Xavier University of Louisiana Additionally, she took an Introductory Com‐puter Course At the Learn‐ing Institute at Dillard Uni‐versity (‘84) and Computer Literacy, Xavier University (‘87) While in the public school system Grace had teaching assignments at Hynes Lakeview, and Bradley Public Schools. She served as an Elementary Teacher at Fisk Howard ‘94–‘98, where she was Lead Teacher of SAY YES Program ‘ 96- ‘98 and Tech‐nology Coordinator ‘97-‘98 ,McDonogh 39 ‘78- ‘94 Served as Ranking Teacher ‘87- ‘88 ‘89- ‘90 ‘93-‘94. She also served on the SACS Steering Committee, ‘82 -‘84 , and Chaired School Sacs Committee ‘94–‘95 Additionally, she was a Specialist in Educational Technology and Interim Help Desk Administrator July ‘99- June 2000. Grace held numerous member‐ships: Association for Su‐pervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD); In‐ternational Society for Technology in Education (ISTE); Louisiana Associa‐tion for Computer Using Educators (LACUE); South East and Islands (Regional Technology in Education Consortium (Teacher Advi‐sor) (SESL) and Consor‐tium for School Networking (CoSN). She earned numer‐ous awards including NOPS Teacher of The Year ‘88-88, 94-95, 96-97 and NOPS Men‐tor Teacher ‘94-95; "Associ‐ation for Supervisors and Curriculum Development (1989); “Principals Perfect Attendance Award” at Fisk Howard Elementary School (1993); “New Orleans Pub‐lic Schools Instructional Technology Award" for completion of “Louisiana Intech”; “Teacher of The Year Area Il 1994-1995”; Consortium Member -

Howar ementary (1993); “New Orleans Pub‐lic Schools Instructional Technology Award" for completion of “Louisiana Intech”; “Teacher of The Year Area Il 1994-1995”; Consortium MemberLouisiana Department of Education Region 1- PreService / In Service Teach‐ers (‘ 95); Title 6 Math/ Sci‐ence Participation Award 1996”; Kappa Phi Kappa Professional Education Honor Society “Excellence in Teaching” 1996-1997 Teacher of the Year“; Goals 2000/ LaNIE Project Chairperson- Professional Development (Louisiana Networking and Infrastruc‐ture in Education); LACUE Board Secretary (‘94); Membership of the Leader‐ship Team of LINCS (Learn‐ing Intensive Networking Communities For Success) at H. C Schaumburg Ele‐mentary (2003) to name a few She received a Grant from Polytechnic Institute Women’s Alliance Com‐puter Equity Project Semi‐nar She was a Grant Recip‐ient/ Honor’s Teacher’s Program - NASA Education Since her retirement, she has worked in the Archdio‐cese of New Orleans at Henriette Delille Middle School in the Office of Catholic Schools, and St Leo the Great Catholic School During this time she continued her mem‐berships and awards in‐cluding “The Summer Insti‐tute For Catholic Educa‐tional Leadership" having completed “The Journey of Spiritual Leadership” 2018; Catapult Learning “Using Technology in Math and Science Classes“ - 3 Credit Hours; “Certificate of Ap‐preciation" for participa‐tion in the Gospel Extrava‐ganza awarded at St Katharine Drexel Catholic Church June 2015. Within the Catholic school com‐munity of the Archdiocese of New Orleans Grace worked in the Office of Catholic Schools and re‐ceived Religion Education Credentials through the Archdiocese Office of reli‐gious Education. In 2012, she was accepted in the First Institute of Lay Eccle‐sial Ministry program at Notre Dame Seminary com‐pleting the program with a commission to serve as a Lay Ecclesial Minister in 2015. Grace was an active member of St Katharine Drexel Catholic Parish, for‐merly a member of St Francis de Sales Catholic Church where she began serving in ministry as a lector, catechist , and later serving as Director of Reli‐gious Education. Since 2007, she has continued to serve in ministry at St Katharine Drexel Parish as lector Parish Catechetical Leader, and served on the Parish Council. She like‐wise was a teacher at Holy Ghost Catholic School where she served as the school’s Religion Coordina‐tor Grace felt that her ex‐tensive background of working with children, cat‐echists, and classroom teachers underlines the continuous need for ser‐vices in the area of reli‐gious education with the parish, coupled with the need for parish adult faith formation Her life’s work and dedication continued this mission through De‐cember 2024. In recogni‐tion of Leadership and Dedicated Service to the Church, in her parish and throughout the Archdio‐cese of New Orleans she received The Order of St Louis Medallion (2000) con‐ferred by Francis Schulte Archbishop of New Or‐leans If you want to know one of the best words to describe Grace it would be “on the move!” She cer‐tainly could not have ac‐complished all of the acco‐lades listed staying still She was rarely at home Often times out of the city, the state and even the country! Whether vaca‐tioning visiting friends at‐tending the many confer‐ences for the organizations she belonged to or simply traveling the highways she was “on the move” with her friends from the 13th Ward, colleagues the gang on Athis Street, her club members of Les Amies classmates of the classes of ‘67 and ‘71 and the chil‐dren of the church when the chaperoning them to the “100 Black Men“ Con‐ference or taking her nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, godchildren and adopted fam‐ilies and family members on back to school shop‐ping trips, lunch engage‐ments and special “field trips” she created Talk about the energizer bunny! She often tells the story of attending the Zulu Ball, as Mardi Gras was one of her favorite seasons and ap‐parently it was time for the members to do their sec‐ond line of sorts! Grace though a float rider for many years, hopped up and joined right in haven’t patiently waited through the pageantry She often told the story of how one of the members never missing a beat danced her right out of the line back to her seat! Not yet, Grace! She loved her city and was very opinionated, and rightfully so, on the educa‐tion system, the political climate, the church her uptown neighborhood, and the comings and goings of the family kids and her stu‐dents assuring they were on the right track for suc‐

very rightfully so, on the educa‐tion system the political climate, the church, her uptown neighborhood and the comings and goings of the family kids and her stu‐dents assuring they were on the right track for suc‐cess. Her goals were har‐mony, righteousness, and peace This is how she lived and this is how she was blessed throughout her life. Relatives and friends of the family stu‐dents and colleagues past and present of McDonogh 39, H.C Schaumburg Ele‐mentary, and Fisk Howard Elementary as well as teachers and classmates of Blessed Sacrament Catholic School, Xavier Prep/ St. Katharine Drexel Prep and Xavier University, and past parishioners of St. Francis De Sales Parish and parishioners of St Katharine Drexel Parish, Blessed Sacrament/ St Joan of Arc Parish, Mem‐bers of the Saint Vincent De Paul Society and parish‐ioners of churches of the Archdiocese of New Or‐leans and Sisters of the Holy Family and Sisters of The Blessed Sacrament are invited to attend the view‐ing and Mass of Christian Burial at St Katharine Drexel Catholic Church, Saturday, March 8, 2025

Arrangements by D.W Rhodes Funeral Home

Please visit www rhodesf uneral com to sign the on‐line guestbook

Mrs. Burnette W Matthews was born Janu‐ary 24, 1947 and peacefully transitioned into eternal rest on Thursday, February 13, 2025 at her home. She was preceded in death by her late parents Louise Freeman and Walter Williams She leaves be‐hind a lifetime of love and cherished memories held in the hearts of her loving husband Clarence E Matthews; son, Alfred (Tieeka) Matthews; daugh‐ter, Tiffany Barthelemy; stepson, Marlowe Ross; and stepdaughter, Jeanine (Marvin) Domino. She will be affectionately missed by her 13 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren her adopted sisters Catherine Williams Jacquelyn Bi‐enemy-Moseley; adopted brother Leroy Bienemy; and godson, Don Bienemy Burnette graduated from Phoenix High School and went on to attend and graduate from Tulane Uni‐versity and Delgado Com‐munity College. She was employed by the Orleans Parish School Board where she worked as a Parapro‐fessional in Special Educa‐tion for 30 years. She also worked as a Certified Nurs‐ing Assistant at Nurse Reg‐istry Gifted Nurses Bur‐nette was an affectionate kindhearted, caring, giving, and a hard working indi‐vidual She was born in New Orleans, LA, and resided in Plaquemine Parish. She moved to New Orleans, LA, where she made her home and was known for her compassion‐ate nature, giving spirit and witty sense of humor She was a woman of strong faith and was a de‐voted member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church & In‐ternational Shrine of St Jude Catholic Church Bur‐nette was also preceded in death by her son-in-law, Oliver Barthelemy and adopted brother, Terrell Bi‐enemy Relatives and friends of the family; Pas‐tors, Officers, and mem‐bers of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church & Inter‐national Shrine of St. Jude Catholic Church Second Baptist Church of Algiers, and all neighboring churches are invited to at‐tend the Celebration of Life Services honoring the life of Burnette Matthews at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church & International Shrine of St. Jude Catholic Church, 411 North Rampart Street New Orleans La On Saturday, March 8, 2025 for 10 am Visitation will begin at 8:00am-9:30am. Pastor Tony Rogelio, OMI will offi‐ciate. Interment at Provi‐dence Memorial Park and Mausoleum, 8200 Airline Drive, Metairie, La Profes‐sional Arrangements are entrusted to Robinson Family Funeral Home 9611 LA-23, Belle Chasse, La 70037. (504)208-2119. For online condolences please visit www robinsonfamilyf uneralhome.com

Mullen-Forrest, Ruth Mabel

Ruth Mabel Mullen-For‐rest entered eternal rest on Thursday February 20 2025, in New Orleans, Louisiana after a lengthy illness. Ruthie was born in Opelika, Alabama on May 22, 1960, and preceded in death by her parents Dr Harold Mullen and Ruth Gonzalez-Mullen Ruthie is survived by her son, Jack Thrash Forrest, III (Tripp) of Hammond, her brother Mark E. Mullen (Jamie) of San Diego, Mark’s children her uncle Romualdo Gon‐zalez (partner Sara), his children Romi and Pablo, all of New Orleans other family and many friends and colleagues for whom she deeply cared After her family moved to New Or‐leans in 1964, Ruthie at‐tended the Louise S McGe‐hee School Newman High School, Millsaps College and Mississippi State Uni‐versity. Ruthie was excep‐tionally intelligent and, like her mother and paternal grandmother, excelled in the culinary arts. Her voca‐tion led to stints as the lead Chef at various local restaurants, including the Bombay Club, Dante by the River, The Columns Hotel, and Cafe Atchafalaya among others Her cater‐ing expertise took her tal‐ents to major cities throughout the United States. Unfortunately, Ruthie's health and career declined after a serious au‐tomobile accident. The family expresses their gratitude to the dedicated home and health care workers who assisted Ruthie during her ﬁnal ill‐ness. Private funeral arrangements are being handled by the Jacob Schoen & Son. Burial will be at the family tomb in Metairie Cemetery. In lieu of ﬂowers donations to the Rt. Rev Romualdo Gon‐zalez Memorial Scholar‐ship Fund for Hispanic stu‐dents at Sewanee—The University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee 37375, created in honor of Ruthie’s maternal grandfa‐ther, will be appreciated.

Joyce Merrick Wilson

Narcisse transitioned for labor to reward at her home in Buras, LA., on Feb‐ruary 23, 2025. She was 69 years old and a devoted and faithful member of First Mt. Zion Baptist Church where she served on the Usher Department She was baptized by the late Reverend John C Williamson Her favorite songs were "I’m Free" and My Worship is For Real" She would always say “Don’t feel sorry for me and Don’t Cry but Pray” She was a person who loved to work rather than be at home. She was the beloved wife of Cledmon Joe” Narcisse mother of Brenda and Travis (Amber) Sr. and Terrance Merrick Grandmother of Bianca, Kalen Story, Costen Makenzie and Travis Jr Step-grandmother of Bri‐ana Williams and great grandmother to Salaya Daughter of the late Joseph Alcide Merrick Sr., and the late Beatrice LaFrance Merrick Sister of Barbara (late Jerry) Ingra‐ham, Mary (Mancil) Dun‐can Kevin Sr (Rolenda) Merrick, the late Alice and Joseph Merrick Jr. Daugh‐ter in law of the late Oliver Sr., and the late Lolita Nar‐cisse Sister in law of Felix Kermit, Anthony, and Frances Narcisse Rose Parker, Caffie Riley and the late Oliver Jr. Paul and Faye Narcisse She is pro‐ceeded in death by her first husband Calvin Wil‐son Joyce is also survived by a host devoted nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends as well as her First Mount Zion Church family Rela‐tives and friends the fam‐ily also pastors officers and members of all neigh‐boring churches are all in‐vited to attend the celebra‐tion of life service which will be held on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at First Mount Zion Baptist Church located at 32471 LA - 23, ‐

and members of all neigh‐boring churches are all in‐vited to attend the celebra‐tion of life service which will be held on Saturday March 8, 2025, at First Mount Zion Baptist Church located at 32471 LA - 23, Empire, LA 70050. The visi‐tation will begin at 9:30 a.m., and the service will begin at 11 a.m. Rev Dr Reginald H Burl ofﬁciating and interment will follow at Mount Zion Memorial Park Cemetery. Funeral planning entrusted to Robinson Family Funeral Home 9611 LA - 23, Belle Chasse, LA 70037 (504) 208 - 2119. For online condo‐lences please visit www robinsonfamilyfuneralho me.com

Perrilliat, Wilma Ruby Bolds

Wilma Ruby Bolds Perril‐liat passed away peace‐fully at her residence on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at the age of 92 sur‐rounded by her children She was a native of New Orleans, LA and a resident of Marrero LA Wilma was a graduate of John S. Clark High School She was a for‐mer employee of Harry Hyman tailor shop. After being an at home mother, she returned to the work‐force and retired from Jef‐ferson Parish Public School System at the age of 75 Wilma was a woman of many talents she was a seamstress and ran a small sweet shop. Beloved wife of the late Roland Joseph Perrilliat Sr Beloved mother of Sharon Perrilliat-Drewes, Roland (Vera) Perrilliat Jr., Byron Perrilliat Sr., Anthony (Lois) Perrilliat Marvin Perrilliat Sr., Wilma (Peter III) Brooks, Kim (Lee II) Craft, Michelle Perrilliat, and Dwayne (LaToya) Per‐rilliat. Grandmother of Courtney LaToya, Roland III, Jermaine, Racquel, Janelle Byron Jr Deanna Antoinette, Kevin, Marvin Jr., Nadia, Cyrus, Peter IV, Tyler Dexter, Alissa Lee III, Kaitlyn, Jenifer, Jenay, Solveigh, Hailey and Seth Daughter of Henry Sr and Louise Bolds. Great-grand‐mother of the late Rhys Mother-in-law of the late Cynthia. Sister of Francis Hooker, Wilfred Bolds, and the late Henry Bolds Jr., El‐venia Franklin, Evelyn Napoleon, Edmore Bolds Wilbert Bolds (her Twin), Warren Bolds Shirley Jones, and Rudolph Bolds, Sr. Endearing friend of Ociejean Clay and Janice Cloud Wilma is also sur‐vived by a compassionate caregiver Dian Davis 19 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and friends Relatives and friends of the family also pastors, ofﬁcers, and members of Westbank Sev‐enth Day Adventist Church, Ephesus Seventh Day Ad‐ventist Church, and all neighboring churches are invited to attend the Cele‐bration of Life at Westbank Seventh Day Adventist Church, 2401 General Meyer Ave New Orleans LA on Friday, March 7, 2025, at 10:00 a.m Visitation will begin at 8:30 a.m at the above-named church In‐terment: Woodlawn Park Memorial Cemetery-West‐wego, LA. Arrangements by Davis Mortuary Service 230 Monroe St., Gretna, LA To view and sign the guest‐book please go to davis‐mortuaryservice.com Face masks are recommended

and her great-great-grandchildren Tyree Harris, Venus Misby, Tyrone Reed Jr and Tyjae Reed Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the Celebration of Life Service on Saturday, March 8 2025, at Gertrude Geddes Willis Funeral Home, 2120 Jackson Av‐enue, New Orleans, LA 70113 at 10:00 a.m Visita‐tion from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m Interment Resthaven Memorial Park, 10400 Old Gentilly Road, New Orleans, LA 70127. You may sign the guest book on http://www gertrud egeddeswillis.com Gertrude Geddes Willis Fu‐neral Home Inc., in charge (504) 522-2525.

Catherine Maher Richard, 61, passed into eternal life on March 2, 2025 at ahospice facility in Houston, Texas. She was born in New Orleans, LA on May 10, 1963 to James and Ellen Maher. Cathy's passion was education. Since 1995, she has shared hertalents with schools in New Orleans, Lake Charles, and Friendswood, Texas. She loved all of her students and found great joy in watching them grow. Those left to cherish her memory are husband, Patrick, children Melinda Slaughter (Mike), Greg (Sydney), grandsons Landon and Luke, andher siblings, James, Mike (Julia), Kelly (Sandy), Mary Fulmer (Eric), Ellen Hayes (Kenneth), anda host of nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held Saturday March 8, 2025 at 10:00 am followed by funeral services at Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home at 2PM. In lieu of flowers, Catherinerequested donationsmade to Episcopal Day School and the St. Louis Catholic High School Foundation in Lake Charles.

Rabalais, Lyn Amanda Lyn Amanda Rabalais, 51, formerly of Gretna LA entered eternal rest on Monday March 3, 2025 Amanda was born to the late Jim and Linda Rabalais in New Orleans She at‐tended Ursuline Academy and Our Lady of Holy Cross College. Amanda was a school counselor and worked in the medical field. She lived a life full of challenges and met them all head on with fierce de‐termination. She never let her physical disability de‐fine who she was Sur‐vivors include her brother and his wife, James A (Tripp) Rabalais, III (Dot‐tie); nephews, Christopher (Marissa) and Cory Rabal‐ais; great nieces Mabel Muriel and Mathilde Rabal‐ais as well as other ex‐tended family and friends In lieu of flowers please make memorial contribu‐tions to the Beagle Free‐dom Project, BFP org in Amanda’s memory. Ser‐vices will be private Char‐bonnet Labat Glapion, Di‐rectors (504) 581-4411. See more DEATHS page

Reed, Joan Lorio

Lemieux, Grace Maria

Matthews, Burnette W.

Richard, Catherine Maher

Narcisse, Joyce Merrick Wilson

Saints could draft differently on defense under new staff

BY LUKE JOHNSON Staff writer

For the ﬁrst time in nearly a decade, the New Orleans Saints are going into the NFL draft process searching for players

ﬁt something other than Dennis Allen’s defensive scheme. That means the team is looking for a few different types of players for new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley

currently don’t exist on the roster The days of pegging a defensive end as a ﬁt for the Saints because

pounds are probably over but those 240-pound bendy edge rushers who never made sense for the Saints now may be in play. Nobody yet knows exactly what kind of players ﬁt what both Staley and the Saints scouting department like, because this is their ﬁrst time working together But that won’t stop us from trying to guess.

The NFL scouting combine is in the rearview mirror, and the 2025 draft is seven weeks away If the Saints choose to load up on new defensive players early in the draft, here are some who make sense.

MICHIGAN DT MASON GRAHAM: To state the obvious, it’s not realistic to hope Graham makes it all the way to No. 9. He is considered one of the best defensive prospects in this draft, and he could wind up being selected in the top ﬁve when draft day rolls around. But for a team with a lot of needs, help along the defensive interior is near the top Graham instantly would upgrade the interior on run downs and pair nicely with Bryan Bresee as an interior pass-rush tandem in sub defensive packages.

TENNESSEE EDGE JAMES PEARCE: In terms of build, Pearce is kind of a blend between the old and new Saints defenses. He is a 6-5 freak athlete (4.47-second 40-yard dash at the combine), but he’s 245 pounds. He is just 21 years old, and he was

Tigers believe they have settled on right position for Perkins

BY WILSON ALEXANDER

Staff writer

Harold Perkins always has played his best when he can use his athleticism in space, and LSU coaches believe a different position next season will allow the senior linebacker to thrive after years of debate about what his role should be.

Perkins will play the Star position, a hybrid linebacker/defensive back in coordinator Blake Baker’s scheme. Although defensive backs often play the position because of its responsibilities in pass coverage, coaches think Perkins can handle the role.

“We want to get him running,” LSU coach Brian Kelly told The Advocate. “We want to get him in his best element, which is being an athlete. We think that position does it for him.” Baker implemented the Star when he was hired last year and safety Major Burns played the position most of the season.

Perkins isn’t expected to be an exact replacement. Baker told On3 that Perkins “gives us a little more position ﬂexibility.” With 13 career sacks, Perkins’ background as a pass rusher could let Baker do some different things, especially off the edge.

“There’s great versatility in the position,” Kelly said.

The position change means for the ﬁrst time in his LSU career, Perkins will not spend the offseason learning how to play inside linebacker Perkins tried to develop inside the past two years, but he struggled to shed blocks from larger offensive linemen His production dipped playing inside, and he was moved to strongside linebacker each season.

A year ago, Kelly said playing Star required a lot of the same things that Perkins did as a strongside linebacker in 2023.

ä See TIGERS, page 2C

super productive in the Southeastern Conference, recording 171/2 sacks in his last two seasons.

TEXAS A&M EDGE SHEMAR STEWART: I know, we’re framing this exercise around the new kinds of players the Saints are seeking, and Stewart is the kind of guy who would’ve excited the old regime. But with Jeff ä See SAINTS, page 3C

BY GUERRY SMITH Contributing writer

On an already balanced team, backup Tulane center Percy Daniels added his name to the mix last Saturday Daniels, a junior from Baton Rouge, scored a career-high 10 points while going 4 of 4 from the ﬂoor in 17 minutes as the Green Wave held off Tulsa 79-77 and moved within one win of clinching a double bye to the quarterfinals in the American

nament. Tulane (17-12, 11-5) can

(17-

— its only remaining challenger for

— on Thursday at Williams

(7 p.m., ESPN+). A victory also would give the Wave the opportunity to snatch the third seed with a home victory against UAB in Sunday’s regular-season ﬁnale. Daniels and the Wave are concentrating on the ﬁrst objective.

“That’s a very big deal,” he said of getting the four seed. “Not only will we not play until Friday (in the AAC tourney), but we’ll also play Friday at 2 (p.m.), Saturday at 2 and Sunday at 2 (in a potential championship game). The consistency of that as well will

BY ROD WALKER Staff writer

Jordan Hawkins doesn’t know when the back pain that sidelined him earlier this season will go away Truth be told, he doesn’t know if they ever will.

“Hopefully it goes away like tomorrow,” Hawkins said early last week. But the Pelicans’ second-year guard is playing through it, as well as playing through the shooting struggles that have come with the pain. When the Pelicans host the Houston Rockets on Thursday night, Hawkins would like nothing more than to see some carryover from his play on the team’s recent four-game road trip. Hawkins averaged 14.8 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.8 assists on the road trip that saw the Pelicans go 2-2. Those numbers are all higher than what he’s averaging for the season (10.9 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.2 assists).

STAFF FILE PHOTO By HILARy SCHEINUK LSU linebacker Harold Perkins stands on the field in the first half against USC on Sept. 1 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. He is recovering from an ACL injury.

Belichick coaches first college practice

BY AARON BEARD AP sportswriter

CHAPEL HILL, N.C. Bill Belichick is back on the practice sidelines again, a familiar home for the man who won six Super Bowls as an NFL head coach. Only now the setting is a small college town. And instead of that familiar hoodie, he was instead decked in a navy blue shortsleeved quarter-zip top and ballcap, along with mesh shorts in that distinctive shade of Carolina blue.

The 72-year-old is a rookie in college coaching, opening his ﬁrst set of spring practices this week since taking over at North Carolina as part of that school’s audacious bet to upgrade its football program.

“That’s the great thing about being a head coach — I can coach anybody I want,” Belichick quipped at his pre-practice news conference Wednesday “I can coach the line, I can yell at the tight ends, I can yell at the DBs, I can yell at the kickers.

“I can go to any group I want and coach them. And honestly, that’s the fun part.”

When the news conference ended, Belichick started to walk away from the podium when he realized he left his whistle behind. He paused, picked it up and blew a short quick chirp — offering a bit of a symbolic start to spring drills for the media, anyway Belichick was hired in December and had a signed contract for a five-year deal — though only the ﬁrst three years are guaranteed with $10 million annually in base and supplemental salary — a month later The goal is to build a pro-style model at the college level, creating what amounts to a “33rd” NFL team as general manager and former NFL executive Michael Lombardi put it last month.

He had continued appearances on ESPN’s “The Pat McAfee Show” and had been spotted in social media posts from the recruiting trail or attending men’s basketball games at the Smith Center, but he hadn’t spoken to local reporters since his introductory news conference nearly three months ago

The Tar Heels opened spring practices Tuesday, then let media members watch about 20 minutes of Wednesday’s practice — though Belichick stood behind the end zone roughly 50-plus yards away

TIGERS

Continued from page 1C

Both positions cover slot receivers man-to-man and blitz off the edge. Kelly said at the time “that’s not really where we want Harold to be,” but Perkins had trouble at inside linebacker again early last season before suffering a torn ACL.

Kelly said in a recent interview

“we felt that it was best in his development that he got a chance” to play inside linebacker He added LSU has a “responsibility” to develop players, and Perkins needed to learn run ﬁts to prepare for the next level. Listed at 6-foot-1 and 225 pounds he’s not viewed as an every-down pass rusher in the NFL.

“We saw him play inside, and he certainly can play inside,” Kelly said. “But there’s a lot more handto-hand combat if you will.” At the Star position, Perkins may not face the same issues.

“You’ve got to go block him in space,” Kelly said. “Not with a tackle, not with a guard, not with a center You’ve got to go block him with a wide receiver or a ﬂex tight end That’s a good matchup for us.”

from where they were allowed to observe.

Throw in the fact that the players aren’t wearing numbers, and it was hard to pick up much of anything in that brief window

His news conference proved more revealing in that regard, with Belichick providing fuller answers than the terse and grumpy responses he was known for with the New England Patriots. That included talking about the new wrinkle for him of having spring practices in pads at the college level, something that wasn’t the case in the NFL

He pointed to his time being around the Washington program as the Huskies prepared to enter the Big Ten before this past season. His son, Steve, worked there as defensive coordinator and Belichick said the progress made during those sessions last spring was “remarkable.”

Now he gets to try it with his own program in Chapel Hill.

“The response has been great,” Belichick said of connecting with teenagers and college-age players as opposed to NFL veterans in

their mid- or late-30s “It’s kind of similar to what a rookie minicamp would be and time with the rookies. Granted, those kids are a little bit older, but they’re coming in from all different programs and different situations.

“So it’s starting to put everything together: here’s how we do things, here’s what our expectations are, this is what you need to do to be successful. They’ve embraced that they’ve tried to do it.”

Belichick teamed with quarterback Tom Brady during most of his 24-year tenure with the Patriots that included those six titles, most recently coming in the 2018 season That run in Foxborough ended after the 2023 season, leaving Belichick with 333 career regular-season and postseason wins to trail Don Shula by just 14 for the NFL record.

He had been linked to NFL jobs after his exit from the Patriots, but nothing materialized — and soon, Belichick had made his ﬁrst jump into college football after the Tar Heels moved on from Mack Brown as the winningest coach in program history

In some ways, this could feel familiar for Perkins. He spent most of his sophomore year and two games last season at strongside linebacker and the Star morphed out of a need to replace strongside linebackers against spread offenses that used three or more wide receivers. Though the positions have similar responsibilities, what the Star does could adjust based on the player Kelly said freshman linebacker Davhon Keys technically filled the role of the Star when he played strongside linebacker near the end of this past season, but LSU didn’t leave him in space as much as it did with Burns Instead, Kelly said it “crowded the box with him quite a bit” and used three linebackers. LSU thinks it will have options with Perkins Kelly said if a team uses two tight ends, LSU can put him close to the box in a three-

Eagles retain LB Baun with $51 million contract

All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun is staying with the Philadelphia Eagles.

The Super Bowl champions announced Wednesday they’ve agreed on a three-year deal with Baun through the 2027 season. Baun’s contract is worth $51 million, including $34 million guaranteed. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the terms weren’t released.

Baun, who mostly played on special teams for the New Orleans Saints, was a key part of defensive coordinator Vic Fangio’s unit last season in his ﬁrst year in Philadelphia. He had 151 tackles, 31/2 sacks and one interception in the regular season and also had a pick against Patrick Mahomes in the Eagles’ 40-22 victory in the Super Bowl last month.

Seahawks wide reciever

Metcalf requests trade

D.K. Metcalf wants out of Seattle.

A person with knowledge of the decision tells The Associated Press, under the condition of anonimity, that the longtime Seahawks wide receiver has asked for a trade. Metcalf, a two-time Pro Bowler, has caught 438 passes for 6,324 yards and 48 touchdowns in six seasons with the Seahawks. The 27-year-old Metcalf has one year remaining on his current contract, which has three voidable seasons after 2025. He’s currently scheduled to count nearly $32 million against the salary cap next year Metcalf’s request was made public on the same day Seattle cut veteran wide receiver Tyler Lockett in a salary cap-saving move.

Raiders give Crosby record-breaking extension

UNC formally announced his coaching staff earlier this week, featuring a mix of NFL and college experience. The list includes former Cleveland Browns head coach Freddie Kitchens as a holdover from Mack Brown’s staff, as well as sons Steve (defensive coordinator/ linebackers) and Brian (defensive backs/safeties).

Belichick said it’s too early to know how things will go with roster management for the upcoming season, including when it comes to the transfer portal for additions and departures after the 15-practice spring session concludes April 12.

UNC’s longer-range target is a college-version of Monday Night Football, with the Tar Heels hosting TCU on Labor Day to open Belichick’s tenure.

“We’ll go out there and do what we do and see what happens, see how it goes,” Belichick said.

“I know we have a good plan. I know we can do the right things to help the players improve, help the team improve and put a good product on the ﬁeld.”

“We saw him play inside, and he certainly can play inside, but there’s a lot more hand-to-hand combat, if you will.”

BRIAN KELLy, LSU coach, on Harold Perkins

linebacker set and bring down a safety If another team plays with four wide receivers, he believes Perkins has the athleticism to cover the slot receiver In 2023, he caught an interception after dropping into coverage on Missouri All-SEC receiver Luther Burden. For now, Perkins will continue to recover from his torn ACL as LSU begins spring practice Saturday Kelly said Perkins is doing “football-related movements” and is expected to be fully cleared for summer workouts.

Once he’s healthy, LSU thinks it can ﬁnally put him at a position that will bring out the best in his skill set.

“He just gives us great versatility,” Kelly said, “and that’s what’s exciting about having him at that position.”

For more LSU sports updates, sign up for our newsletter at theadvocate.com/lsunewsletter

HENDERSON, Nev The Raiders not only extended the contract of star defensive end Maxx Crosby, they made him the highest-paid nonquarterback in NFL history Crosby received a three-year extension worth $106.5 million, with $91.5 million guaranteed, to keep him in Las Vegas through the 2029 season. His average salary of $35.5 million in the three-year extension surpasses Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson’s average deal of $35 million, according to overthecap.com. That was the previous high for a non QB.

Crosby has been one of the NFL’s elite pass rushers with 591/2 sacks since being selected in the fourth round of the 2019 draft.

Chiefs trade offensive guard Thuney to Bears

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Kansas City Chiefs are trading two-time All-Pro guard Joe Thuney to the Chicago Bears for a fourth-round pick in the 2026 draft, a person familiar with the deal told The Associated Press on Wednesday under the condition of anonymity

The 32-year-old Thuney would have carried a salary cap number of nearly $27 million next season, unless the Chiefs could have worked out a contract extension. That extension is now expected to come from the Bears, who have been working to retool their offensive line to better protect young quarterback Caleb Williams next season. Williams was sacked an NFLhigh 68 times last season.

Rangers expect RF García to play on opening day

SURPRISE, Ariz. The Texas Rangers expect right fielder Adolis García can be ready for opening day after testing on his sore left oblique revealed a mild strain. Manager Bruce Bochy told reporters Wednesday, a day after García was scratched from the lineup for a spring training game, that the two-time All-Star slugger had “not quite” a Grade 1 strain. Bochy said García should return “a little bit sooner” than that timetable. That would have García easily on track for the opener at home against Boston on March 27. When the Rangers won their only World Series title two seasons ago, García missed the last two World Series games with an oblique issue.

STAFF FILE PHOTO By HILARy SCHEINUK

LSU linebacker Harold Perkins closes in on USC quarterback Miller Moss for a sack in the first half of their game on Sept. 1 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By CHRIS SEWARD North Carolina coach Bill Belichick watches UNC practice on Wednesday in Chapel Hill, N.C.

LeBron becomes first to score 50,000

BY GREG BEACHAM AP sportswriter

LOS ANGELES LeBron James is well on his way to rewriting every previous deﬁnition of basketball longevity, and the 40-year-old star is now racking up numbers the NBA has never seen before.

James became the first player to score 50,000 combined points in the regular season and postseason on Tuesday night, surpassing the mark with a 3-pointer early in the ﬁrst quarter of the Los Angeles Lakers’ 136-115 win over New Orleans.

James finished with 34 points against the Pelicans after toppling another milestone in his unprecedented career “I mean, that’s a lot of points,” James said afterward, rubbing his beard in wonder. “Obviously, the ﬁrst thing that comes to mind is where I’m from. Picking up the game when I was a little kid and having a love for the sport, and hoping that someday I’d be able to play at the highest level I’ve been able to do that and really enjoy my career So it’s deﬁnitely an honor It’s pretty cool to see that.”

James already is the top scorer in NBA history in both the regular season and the playoffs.

Maintaining a spectacular level of play midway through his record-tying 22nd season, he is pulling away from the other greats of the game: Lakers great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who played 20 seasons, is a now-distant second with 44,149 combined points.

James got his milestone 3-pointer off an assist by Luka Doncic, a trivia tidbit that pleased both superstars. Doncic’s arrival in last month’s seismic trade with the

PELICANS

Continued from page 1C

“He’s playing more consistent where he has more consistent minutes,” Pelicans coach Willie Green said. “He understands what his role is when he steps on the ﬂoor This is a part of his growth.”

Hawkins scored 24 points in a loss to the Suns, one shy of the season-high 25 points he scored

Washington Huskies tight end Jack Westover gets past Texas Longhorns defensive back Jahdae Barron for a first down during the first half of a College Football Playoff semifinal game on Jan. 1, 2024, at the Caesars Superdome.

Dallas Mavericks has invigorated both James and the Lakers, who look like championship contenders with a seven-game winning streak and 17 victories in their last 20 games.

“It’s amazing, watching him do this stuff at this age,” said Doncic, who had 30 points, 15 assists and eight rebounds against New Or-

against the Denver Nuggets in December He also had four assists in that game, tying his season-high in that category The four 3-pointers he knocked down Tuesday against the Lakers are the most he’s made in a game since January He made 11 of 30 3-pointers on the road trip.

“He just has a shooter’s mindset,” Pelicans forward Zion Williamson said. “The longer he is in the league, the more he’s starting to develop that shot, and I think

leans. “It’s just unbelievable, that 50K points. I can’t even explain how insane that is. He might get to 70K. You never know.”

The Lakers recognized the milestone at the next timeout with public address announcer Lawrence Tanter saying: “Ladies and gentlemen, we all have just witnessed history.” James acknowl-

that really helps his game a lot.”

Hawkins also is reaping the beneﬁts of the Pelicans’ bigger lineup now that newly acquired 7-footer Kelly Olynyk is on the roster

“It gives us a different perspective on offense,” Hawkins said. “A lot more ball movement and screening and gets everybody engaged.”

The ofﬁcial diagnosis of Hawkins’ back issues that caused him to miss time in November and December was a lumbar spine annular ﬁssure.

SAINTS

Continued from page 1C

Ireland running the show the Saints are still going to seek players who are unnaturally gifted for their size. There is some signiﬁcant boom-or-bust potential here, which may make Saints fans groan. Stewart never recorded more than 11/2 sacks in a season at Texas A&M, but he possesses rare athletic gifts for a 6-5, 267-pound man.

GEORGIA LB/EDGE JALON

WALKER: If Staley wants someone who can do a little bit of everything, Walker makes a lot of sense. He brings some juice as a pass rusher, evidenced by his 111/2 sacks the past two seasons, but he also can contribute as an offball linebacker The selfdescribed “hybrid linebacker” might be an ideal ﬁt for what Staley is trying to build. The New Orleans scouting staff would need to be impressed with Walker, who stands at just 6-1, below the prototypical height for linebackers and

edge rushers.

ALABAMA LB JIHAAD CAMPBELL: Even though he racked up more than 100 tackles for Alabama last year Campbell may never be an off-ball linebacker a la Demario Davis. But he does present some really exciting traits as a 3-4 outside linebacker and sub-personnel package pass rusher, and his rangy athleticism could one day translate as a middle linebacker if Campbell can improve as a processor Campbell plays a physical, violent and fast brand of football.

TEXAS CB JAHDAE BARRON: If the Saints are unable to re-sign Paulson Adebo — which feels increasingly likely the closer we get to the new league year — they will have a sneaky need for a corner. So why not go out and get the player who just won the Thorpe Award under Terry Joseph, the new defensive pass-game coordinator for the Saints? Barron picked off five passes for the Longhorns last year and had eight in his final three seasons He profiles

as a slot corner in the NFL, though he may ﬁt best as a safety Barron probably isn’t in play at No. 9, but his combine performance may have improved his stock to the point where he won’t be available for the Saints’ second pick at No. 40. The Saints have been known to make a trade to get a player they like NOTRE DAME S XAVIER WATTS: Even if the Saints re-sign free agent Will Harris after a solid debut season here, it’s safe to say New Orleans doesn’t have its long-term answer at safety Watts could be a fun addition if he’s there in the second round. The twotime All-American is one of the best ball hawks in this class, having made 13 interceptions the last two seasons. Watts isn’t a complete player, especially in run defense, but he has one exceptional skill that should translate well to the NFL. It’s worth noting that Watts will wait until his pro day to perform any physical testing.

Email Luke Johnson at ljohnson@theadvocate.com.

edged the standing ovation with several waves from the bench.

James is tied with Vince Carter for the most seasons played in NBA history But while nearly every other NBA player who lasted to his late 30s ﬁnished at a fraction of his peak powers, James shows no signs of decline in his 40s.

He was named the NBA’s West-

He also experienced back issues during his time at UConn. “Just go out there and hoop and not overthink too much and not put too much pressure on myself,” Hawkins said. “I just go out there and play my game. I’m out there and just hooping.”

Hawkins has had his struggles against the Rockets, who the Pelicans play Thursday in the Smoothie King Center and then again Saturday in Houston’s Toyota Center. In his ﬁve career games against

ern Conference player of the month earlier Tuesday after he averaged 29.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, 6.9 assists and 1.2 steals in February while playing more than 35 minutes per game for the Lakers, who went 9-2 to surge into second place in the West.

With their victory over the Pelicans, the Lakers improved to 11-2 since acquiring Doncic.

James has played in 1,548 regular-season games, trailing only Robert Parish (1,611) and AbdulJabbar (1,560).

If he stays healthy and elects to return for a record 23rd season, he will likely surpass Parish next winter

James has also played in 287 postseason games, the most in NBA history He became the league’s career playoff scoring leader on May 25, 2017, when he surpassed Michael Jordan’s total of 5,987 during the Cleveland Cavaliers’ Eastern Conference ﬁnals game at Boston.

James then became the top scorer in regular-season history on Feb. 7, 2023, when he topped Abdul-Jabbar’s record of 38,387 points during the Lakers’ game against Oklahoma City James’ proliﬁc scoring is due in large part to his metronomic consistency With his performance against the Pelicans, he has scored at least 10 points in 1,278 consecutive games since Jan. 6, 2007 by far the longest such streak in NBA history James’ player of the month award for February was his 41st, extending his own league record. He is also the oldest player to win the award, surpassing a 37-yearold Karl Malone in November 2000.

Houston, he’s made just 9 of 37 shots, including 6 of 26 on 3-pointers He’s averaging six points per game against them.

Green hopes to see the Hawkins he saw on the road trip. “We want to see him step on the ﬂoor and continue to build momentum, build good habits,” Green said “And for the most part, we like what we see.”

Email Rod Walker at rwalker@theadvocate.com.

ASSOCIATED PRESS PHOTO By JAE C. HONG

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James gestures after making a 3-point basket to go over the 50,000 career point mark on Tuesday in Los Angeles.

New Orleans Forecast

Karr reach semis, could meet in championship

BY CHRISTOPHER DABE Staff writer

John Curtis and Edna Karr will play in separate LHSAA state semiﬁnal girls basketball games Thursday — all with a chance for the District 9-5A counterparts to meet Saturday in the Division I select state ﬁnal.

Top-seeded Curtis (18-4) will face No. 4 Huntington (18-6) in the first semifinal set for 2:45 p.m at the University Center in Hammond. No. 2 Karr (28-4) will face No. 3 Woodlawn-Baton Rouge (25-6) in the next semifinal at 4 p.m.

The semiﬁnal between Karr and Woodlawn will be a rematch from when Woodlawn won 47-44 in a tournament hosted by Walker in December

In that game, Karr had the ball in the closing seconds when coach Carl Antoine “drew up a play that didn’t go our way,” he said, and a foul after a turnover put Woodlawn at the free-throw line.

“It was a good game,” Antoine said. “Anytime you have a game like that, it pushes you to execute.”

UL signee Amijah Price is the leading player for Woodlawn, which reached the state ﬁnal last season and lost to Curtis.

Karr’s leading scorers are sophomore guard Cass Antoine (19.6 points per game) the coach’s daughter and 6-foot-4 senior Texas-San Antonio signee Sanaa Bean (12.1 ppg), a Newman transfer Senior Jalyn Recasner commonly defends against the other team’s top-scoring guard.

Karr has four losses this season, three of them against schools that began the week with a chance at winning a state title.

“I purposely set out to make the schedule as difﬁcult as possible,” said Antoine, a former boys basketball assistant under Taurus Howard at Karr and a former girls assistant before his daughter reached high school last season.

Other losses came against Division IV select top seed Southern Lab, along with Curtis and Slidell. Against Huntington, Curtis will face a team that is in the state tournament for the fifth time in the past six seasons, reaching the final once when it finished as a runnerup in 2021.

Curtis has won seven titles in the past eight seasons — the ﬁrst six coming against eight-and nine-team playoff ﬁelds before the select school playoff brackets grew to include 24 schools in 2023. Key returning players for Curtis include

STAFF PHOTO By JOHN McCUSKER

Karr’s Sanaa Bean pulls in a defensive rebound against John Curtis’ Jayla Albert on Jan. 30. Curtis won 57-48 in a game that decided the District 9-5A championship.

St. Aug defense too much for Bonnabel in rematch

BY DARRELL WILLIAMS Contributing writer

Tuesday’s St. AugustineBonnabel matchup in a Division I select regional playoff game carried intrigue because the Purple Knights had won at Bonnabel by four points in December

This time, St. Augustine’s length and quickness on defense made it difﬁcult for the Bruins to play with any offensive consistency, as the Knights ran away with a 62-31 victory at St. Aug.

“When we played (Bonnabel) earlier this season, I knew we’d face them in the playoffs,” St. Augustine ﬁrst-year coach Wade Mason said. “The ﬁrst time we played them, we ran one offense and one defense. We were very, very vanilla So, I felt our gimmicks would work.”

ton (28-4), 6:15 p.m. Division I nonselect: No. 2 Walker (32-2) vs. No. 3 Zachary (24-4), 8 p.m.

UL signee Imani Daniel in the post and guard Jayla Albert, who was in eighth grade when she scored a team-high 20 points in the state final last season. Freshman guard Janiyah Williams is another top scorer for the Patriots. Huntington has a strong scoring duo of Southern Miss signee Carley Hamilton (19 5 points per game) and returning firstteam all-state selection Kyndal Graham (13.9 ppg), a junior Curtis and Karr could meet in the final for a rematch from when Curtis won 57-48 in the regular season. Karr narrowed a 14-point deficit to two points in the third quarter in a game that decided the 9-5A championship. “We had 25 turnovers in that game,” said Carl Antoine, who noted that “Curtis did a good job making us turn it over It was a good learning lesson.”

Contact Christopher Dabe at cdabe@ theadvocate.com

No 4 seed St. Aug (27-4) alternated defenses and sent an extra defender to help out on Bruins guard Jeremiah Lucas, who was second-team all-state last season. On offense, the Knights used post-ups and back-door cuts along with an occasional 3-pointer to befuddle No. 13 Bonnabel (24-8), the District 10-5A champion.

The win is the sixth in a row for the Knights, who have won eight of their past nine games. St. Augustine, which had a bye in the bidistrict round, will host No. 5 seed Alexandria in the quarterﬁnals at 7 p.m. Friday Mason said he took a look at Alexandria, which beat No. 21 Carencro 46-38 on Monday

“They have three good players — a big man, their point guard and another player,” he said. Junior center/forward Ja’Verdes Brazile led the Knights with 13 points, soph-

St. Augustine 62, Bonnabel 31 Bonnabel 7 2 9 13 — 31 St. Augustine 18 18 13 13 62 SCORING: BONNABEL: Jeremiah Luca 8, Thomas Molette 8, Amery De La Rosa 7, Kenyon Harper 4, Charles Marquez 4; ST. AUGUSTINE: Ja’Verdes Brazile 13, Aaron Miles 12, Tye Williams 10, Jakobe Shepard 8, Brayden Boyd 8, Khalil Jones 5, Jaden Hughes 4, Kolbin Jefferson 2

omore point guard Aaron Miles scored 12 and senior guard Tye Williams had 10. Defense was where St Aug made its mark, however, as no Bruin scored in double ﬁgures. Lucas was held to eight Point guard Thomas Molette also scored eight.

St. Aug led 8-0 lead before Bruins guard Jordan Jarreau was credited with two points on a goal-tending call with 3:31 left in the ﬁrst quarter Bonnabel got within 11-7 at the 1:50 mark, but that’s when the Knights took off. From there, guard Khalil James sank a 3-pointer that started a 7-0 spurt, and St. Aug led 18-7 at the end of the first quarter The run reached 14-0 at the 4:47 mark of the second before

Molette sank a free throw for the Bruins.

However the Knights picked it back up from there and scored nine more points before another Bruins free throw ended the run. After the run reached 25-2, St. Augustine led 36-9 at halftime. Bonnabel coach Micah Hagans said his team just couldn’t make shots.

“We’ve seen that defense a lot of times — where our opponent brings a defender over to trap (Lucas),” Hagans said. “I tried to settle them down (in the second quarter). We were playing too fast I think being on a bigger stage bothered some of our young players, but credit St. Aug for the job they did.” St. Augustine led 49-18 at the end of the

LSU makes quick work of UL-Monroe

BY JIM KLEINPETER

Contributing writer

LSU softball didn’t leave its burgeoning offense behind on the West Coast in its return home against ULMonroe on Tuesday

The No. 4 Tigers pounded out 12 hits, including a pair of three-run homers by Tori Edwards, to make short work of the Warhawks 12-4 in ﬁve innings at Tiger Park Edwards’ homers, her team-best sixth and seventh, came in the ﬁrst and second innings. Along with a two-run double by Maci Bergeron in the second, the early offense staked LSU (19-1) to an 8-0 lead.

Seven of LSU’s nine starters had at least one hit, with Edwards and Danieca Coffey leading the way with three each. Coffey scored three times and drove in a run.

“Tori Edwards was incredible,” LSU coach Beth Torina said. “I thought the whole offense did a good job applying pressure throughout the game It was well swung at the plate.

“There are some at-bats that go unnoticed. Jaydn Laneaux drawing a walk after an 0-2 count Maci in a two-strike at-bat hitting a double and getting Tori to the plate. There are a lot of good things happening in the offense in front of her and around her that went well today, too.”

Edwards’ ﬁrst homer was an opposite-field shot into the bleachers Her second was a low line drive with an 84 miles per hour exit velocity

“The whole week we’ve been studying the pitchers,” said Edwards, who also stole a base and scored from third on a wild pitch. “Coming off of California at this point of the season, I think I’ve seen a little bit of everything I’m sticking to my plan. My goal is if someone misses a pitch, I’m going to make them pay for it.

“It’s been a goal of mine to spray the ﬁeld That’s been a challenge I’m capable of. It made me happy to see the progress.”

The Warhawks (15-8) saw their 13-game winning

streak end and couldn’t get their small ball going. But the visitors took advantage of a couple of mistakes by LSU right-hander Tatum Clopton. Meagan Brown hit a three-run homer in the third inning after two of Clopton’s four walks, and Maryssa Zenzen hit a solo homer in the fourth.

Clopton (4-0) entered the game with a team-best 0.75 ERA after not giving up as much as an extra-base hit through her first 182/3 innings.

“There’s nights like these that will happen,” Clopton said. “It’s always tough for a curve, rise pitcher with the wind blowing out We adjusted. I continued to adjust and incorporate different pitches and attack the hitters.

“Our game plan was to force them into the air, which is exactly what we did We stuck with our plan. They executed on some of those pitches. You have to take your hat off to them on those. Some of those situations, I dug my own hole and that’s also going to happen.”

Tennessee routs Texas A&M to begin the SEC Tournament

By The Associated Press

GREENVILLE, S.C. — Talaysia

Cooper had 19 points and eight rebounds, Jewel Spear added 11 points and three 3-pointers, and 18th-ranked Tennessee beat Texas A&M 77-37 on Wednesday in the opening game of the SEC Tournament Tennessee (22-8) advances to play No 8 seed Vanderbilt on Thursday The Lady Vols dropped a 71-70 contest against the Commodores on Jan. 19 when Mikayla Blakes tipped in a missed shot at the buzzer for just their 11th series win in the last 90 games. Tennessee pulled away from Texas A&M in the second quarter The Lady Vols closed the half on a 14-2 run to take a 32-19 lead as Texas A&M went 1 for 6 from the field with five turnovers in the final 5:27. Then the Lady Vols closed the third quarter on a 17-0 run to go ahead 60-28 on a long 3-pointer by Spear A 14-2 run to start the fourth made it 74-30. It was the fifth largest margin of victory in SEC Tournament history

Zee Spearman also scored 11 points and Samara Spencer ﬁnished with 10 for Tennessee, which scored 37 points off 32 Texas A&M turnovers.

GEORGIA 79, ARKANSAS 74: In Greenville, South Carolina, Asia Avinger scored 13 of her 19 points in the second half, De’Mauri Flournoy added 15 points and Georgia

WOMEN’S SEC TOURNAMENT

closed on an 11-2 run to beat Arkansas on Wednesday in the opening round of the SEC Tournament. Georgia (13-18) will play No. 5 seed and 10th-ranked Oklahoma on Thursday The Lady Bulldogs lost the only regular-season matchup with the then-No. 15 Sooners 86-55 on Jan. 26 Izzy Higg inbottom had Arkansas in control through three quarters as she reached 29 points after a three-point play with 4:52 left in the frame for a 57-46 lead But Georgia opened the fourth on an 8-3 run to get within 63-62 on Roxane Makolo’s fastbreak layup.

Trinity Turner sank a ﬂoater in the lane with 2:01 left in the fourth to give Georgia its first lead, 7472, since it was 32-30 in the second quarter After Arkansas wasn’t close on a 3-point shot at the shot-clock buzzer Avinger made a jumper from the free-throw line with 12.9 seconds left for a 76-72 lead. Turner stole the inbounds pass and Flournoy made 1 of 2 free throws for a ﬁve-point lead to seal it. Turner finished with 11 points and Mia Woolfolk scored all 10 of her points in the second half for Georgia.

MISSISSIPPI STATE 75, MISSOURI 55: In Greenville, South Carolina, Jerkaila Jordan scored

be very important.”

The only way Tulane can fall to the No. 5 seed is if it loses its ﬁnal two games and East Carolina wins at Florida Atlantic on Sunday The Wave has yet to drop two in a row in league play but will be a slight underdog in both games.

If Daniels can come close to replicating his performance at Tulsa, when he also grabbed an AAC-high five rebounds, Williams Arena ﬁnally may not be a house of horrors for coach Ron Hunter who is 0-5 there.

A defense-first player, Daniels averaged fewer than 2.0 points and had gone scoreless in his three previous games while taking only one shot.

But with Tulsa’s big men playing behind Tulane’s centers and allowing easy entry passes, he stepped up when Gregg Glenn got in foul trouble on his own way to a personal-best 22 points.

“What’s great about Percy is he will give you exactly what you need, whatever that may be,” Hunter said. “I wasn’t even surprised about the scoring because we see him do those things in practice. Percy has sacriﬁced his game to make us better.”

His acceptance of a secondary role is unusual for someone of his pedigree.

A ﬁrst-team All-State performer and two-time Class 3A state champion at Madison Prep, he was the thirdranked big man in Louisiana, according to 247Sports for the 2022 class.

He arrived at Tulane with outsized expectations but played in only four games as a freshman After considering transferring when the assistant who recruited him, Kevin Johnson, left to become coach at Southern, Daniels averaged a paltry 6.5 minutes in 27 games on a veteran roster last year After last season, he never thought about the portal. “Really being in New Or-

leans and creating a family in this community, it was a no-brainer for me to stay here at home with coach Hunter in this program,” he said. “Winning is big for me, and I deﬁnitely want to win with Tulane, where I started.”

Despite his negligible offensive numbers, Daniels was a factor in Tulane’s unexpected rise even before his breakout game at Tulsa. He is third on the team in blocks with 24 despite averaging only 10.5 minutes, using his 6-foot-10 frame to his advantage. He blocked a career-high four shots while playing an AAC-high 20 minutes in Tulane’s 86-81 victory against East Carolina on Feb. 19.

“He’s the best teammate you can have,” Hunter said “His leadership has been great. I haven’t had a player in the program that has not liked Percy. At the end of the Tulsa game when he had his career-high, you would have thought we’d just won the national championship.

They were running and hugging him. Everybody wants great things to happen for Percy.”

Point guard Rowan Brumbaugh, the Wave’s leader in scoring and assists, seconded that notion.

“He’s a dude that literally only wants to win,” Brumbaugh said. “He could care less about how many minutes he plays. He’s the same guy every day His time was coming, he was ready, the game opened up for him, and he was huge.”

Four of Tulane’s starters average in double figures for points. The ﬁfth, freshman Kam Williams, is close at 9.1, and top reserve Mari Jordan has scored 10 or more points nine times. When the Wave needed a seventh option, Daniels delivered.

“Offensively, it’s been a different player each night,” Hunter said. “It’s just been a great team atmosphere and great team building in regards to winning.”

21 points, Destiney McPhaul

added a career-high 19 and No. 10 seed Mississippi State used a 31-0 second-half run to beat No. 15 seed Missouri on Wednesday night to give coach Sam Purcell his first SEC Tournament victory Mississippi State (21-10) will play No. 7 seed Ole Miss on Thursday in the second round. The Bulldogs lost to the Rebels 71-63 on Jan. 19. The Bulldogs trailed 4632 with 8:28 left in the third quarter before taking its ﬁrst lead, 49-47, since it was 18-17 and closing the frame on a 20-0 run.

McPhaul sank a 3-pointer from near midcourt just before the third-quarter buzzer to extend the lead to 56-47.

McPhaul also made two 3-pointers from the corner in the opening four minutes of the fourth

Jordan added a jumper from the free-throw line to make it a 30-0 run that ended at 31.

Missouri missed 18 straight shots until Grace Slaughter made a shot in the lane with 4:39 left. The Tigers also ﬁnished with 20 turnovers.

Madina Okot had 12 points and eight rebounds, and Eniya Russell scored 10 for Mississippi State. McPhaul was 4 of 5 from 3-point range before being helped off the court late.

Ashton Judd led Missouri (14-18) with 15 points. Slaughter, averaging a team-high 15.2 points per game, was held to eight on 3-of-10 shooting.

STAFF FILE PHOTO By SOPHIA GERMER

Northwestern State players Braelon Bush and Jamison Epps play defense as Tulane’s Percy Daniels reaches for a rebound off the rim during the first half of their game on Nov. 9, 2023, at Devlin Fieldhouse.

STAFF FILE PHOTO By HILARy SCHEINUK

LSU coach Beth Torina speaks with LSU fi rst baseman Tori Edwards at third base against UT-Arlington on Feb 14 at Tiger Park. Edwards hit two home runs on Wednesday as the Tigers beat UL-Monroe 12-4.

‘Clean eats’ salad the perfect Mardi Gras cleanse

After all the richness and revelry the last few months have brought, this week, I was craving clean, healthy delicious food. I wanted quinoa. I wanted crunch. I wanted lime. I wanted bright. I wanted to eat something that made me feel good. I found everything I was looking for in what I’m calling the “Clean Eats Salad.” It’s a combination of fruit, herbs, vegetables and quinoa, which is technically not a grain

Quinoa is considered to be a pseudograin a seed prepared and consumed as a grain. Many consider quinoa to be one of the healthiest foods around. It’s packed with ﬁber and protein and contains all nine essential amino acids. Plus, when prepared properly, it’s delicious.

Cooking quinoa is easy, much like cooking rice, except quicker Like rice, proportions are 2 parts water to 1 part quinoa. For the salad recipe, I used 1½ cups uncooked quinoa and three cups water, which made more than I needed. (The next time, I’ll try 1¼ cups quinoa and 2½ cups water.)

The rest of the prep is simple: once the water or broth comes to a rolling boil, add in the quinoa. Cover and turn to low Cook for 15 minutes Let sit 5 minutes, then ﬂuff with a fork. For this salad, I used chicken broth to give it more ﬂavor

While the salad is great with oil, lime juice and honey, I wanted to add some extra zip. I love Trader Joe’s Green Goddess salad dressing It’s a mix of avocado, apple cider vinegar, green onions, chives and other spices. Its ﬂavorfulness takes the salad to the next level

STAFF PHOTO By JAN RISHER

To make the salad, add quinoa, jicama, cilantro, carrots, red onion and Mandarin oranges to a large bowl.

LIVING

Baba Ghanouj

2 eggplants (roasted) ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for brushing on the eggplant) ¼ cup tahini 2 cloves of garlic (minced)

2 tablespoons lemon juice

½ teaspoon cumin ½ teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon salt GARNISH Toasted pine nuts Fresh flat leaf parsley (chopped) Drizzle of olive oil

1. Preheat the oven to 400 F Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or tin foil. Slice the eggplants lengthwise and brush the inside of the eggplants with olive oil. Place ﬂesh side down on the prepared baking sheet. Put the eggplant in the oven to roast, until the skin is wrinkled and the ﬂesh is tender about 30-45 minutes.

2. Once the eggplant is roasted, remove it from the oven and let it cool. Then hold each half of the eggplant in your hand and use a spoon to scoop out the eggplant ﬂesh from the outside skin into a ﬁne mesh strainer Place the strainer over a bowl and let the eggplant sit for a few minutes This allows moisture to strain out.

3. Once the eggplant has rested and the moisture is removed, place the eggplant in a bowl of a food processor Next, add the tahini. (Note: Much like natural peanut butter, tahini has a layer of oil that sits on the top. Simply mix the oil into the seed butter before using it.) Then add the tahini, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, smoked paprika and salt. Process until smooth Drizzle in the olive oil and process a minute more until the baba ghanouj is smooth and creamy

PHOTO By LIZ FAUL

Open sesame Open sesame

Four tahini recipes to try this spring

Tahini is a terriﬁc condiment that is made from grinding sesame seeds into a paste. The paste adds a warm, nutty ﬂavor to Mediterranean dishes like hummus and baba ghanouj.

Most grocery stores carry tahini, but for a fun condiment-hunting adventure, start the search at a local Mediterranean restaurant. Mona’s Cafe on Banks Street in New Orleans has a small Lebanese grocery store next door with a large selection of tahini products. Plan a lunch date and pick up a jar of tahini to take home.

There are a few things to consider when making tahini: The condiment can be made from hulled and unhulled sesame seeds. Hulling is a process of removing the outside shell from the seed before grinding it up. The next consideration is that tahini can be made from raw or roasted sesame seeds. Raw tahini is lighter in color because the raw sesame seeds

Smoked paprika adds zip to sweet potato and

BY LINDA GASSENHEIMER

News Service (TNS)

Here’s a warm and inviting, vegetarian

and

with

and don’t need presoaking. Smoked paprika adds a smokey

are lighter in color than toasted sesame seeds. Tahini made from toasted sesame seeds has a nuttier flavor profile. One common feature for all kinds of tahini is that, like natural peanut butter, the oil can separate from the paste, so it’s important to mix it before using. After doing some research, I found a brand called SOOM tahini that was smooth, creamy and easy to use. Conduct a taste test to discover your favorite brand, or try making your own by putting raw sesame seeds in a food processor and adding a little olive oil to make a paste. My favorite recipe to make with tahini is baba ghanouj, which is a dip that is made with roasted eggplant combined with tahini, garlic, lemon and olive oil. When making this dip, try adding a little cumin and smoked paprika to add a warm, smoky flavor It’s easy and satisfying to make and can be

Baba Ghanouj

Risher

Liz Faul

ä See THE DISH, page 2D ä See TAHINI, page 2D

Protect your phone from viruses

Dear Heloise: I read with concern Daniel T.’s hint about scam calls. Our phones are like our computers; they hold valuable information for scammers. As such, they must have the best protection against viruses. In Daniel’s case, he should have his phone evaluated by a phone expert or at least have it reset so that any scam programs are erased. Then he should install a virus program and a call screener that blocks any suspicious spam calls.

Hints from Heloise

Don’t forget to back up your data to the cloud before you reset it If you are uncomfortable about resetting your phone, contact your phone company, and they can usually talk you through it. Apologies for the long letter, but this is important! — Priscilla Wigham, via email

Rodent monitoring

Dear Heloise: To monitor or determine if we have a rodent in our house or vehicle, we use a very simple

Roasted Beet Hummus

and cheap monitoring device. We place a black sunﬂower seed at a discrete but easily monitored place. Such places could be corners, just inside the closet or cabinet doors, places that are not vacuumed routinely, etc. They are easily visible, especially with a ﬂashlight. If the seed is gone sometime after you’ve placed it there, you probably have a rodent, especially a mouse, inside your house. — Jim Walrath, via email

Send a hint to heloise@ heloise.com.

or thick, drizzle more olive

Former queens of Hermes gather

1. Preheat the oven to 375 F

2. Drain the cans of chickpeas (garbanzo beans) into a colander and rinse well.

3. If using fresh beets, cut the beets to remove the leaves and cut the end of the beet to make a ﬂat end. Wash the skin of the beets and place them in a shallow roasting pan. Add about 1-2 cups of water to the bottom of the roasting pan. Cover the roasting pan with tin foil to form a cover over the roasting pan that is sealed.

No

Bake Chocolate Tahini Crunch Bars

Recipe inspired by Melanie McDonald

2 cups dark chocolate chips

2 cups water

1 cup tahini

1 cup rice crispy cereal

1 cup rolled oats

½ cup dried cranberries (or favorite dried fruit like chopped dried apricot)

½ teaspoon salt

1. Line an 8-inch by 8-inch pan with parchment paper

Be sure to cut the paper large enough to fold over the side of the pan to make removal of the chilled bars simple.

2. In a double boiler pan (or a heat proof bowl placed on top of a pan), place the water in the pan and bring

TAHINI

Continued from page 1D

Place the beets into the preheated oven. Let roast for about 1½ hours. Once beets are tender enough to insert a fork, remove beets from the oven and let cool. Once cool, peel the skin and cut beets into quarters (they should be tender and easy to cut).

4 In the bowl of a food processor (or blender), place one beet, drained chickpeas, tahini, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper and cumin. Blend until smooth. If the mixture is chunky

it to a boil. Meanwhile, pour the chocolate chips in the bowl of the double boiler and stir the chocolate until it is melted.

3. Remove the melted chocolate from the heat. Add the tahini, cereal, oats, dried fruit and salt Stir all of the ingredients together, then pour the chocolate

hini mixture into the

4. Place the pan with the chocolate tahini crunch bars in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to one hour to allow the bars to harden. Then remove the pan from the refrigerator and pull the bars out of the pan using the parchment paper Set the bars on a cutting board and cut into square portions.

oil a bit at a time, until the hummus is smooth. Give the hummus a taste test, and add more salt and pepper to taste. Then one more spin in the processor 5. Place the beet hummus in a serving bowl, garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, lemon zest, chopped parsley and/or cayenne pepper 6. Serve with any of the following: pita chips, carrots, cucumbers, radish or sliced sourdough bread.

Tahini Yogurt Dip

1 cup plain Greek yogurt

3 tablespoons tahini

2 tablespoons lemon juice (plus the zest of the lemon)

½ teaspoon ground cumin

1 clove garlic minced

1 teaspoon salt GARNISH

1 teaspoon fresh parsley (chopped)

1 teaspoon lemon zest Drizzle of olive oil

1. Place all of the ingredients in a bowl and stir together

2. Garnish the top of the dip with fresh parsley, lemon zest and a drizzle of olive oil.

3. Serve with freshly sliced vegetables, such as sliced carrots, celery bell pepper, radish or cucumber

Past queens

Foreign objects in soup

Hummus is also a Mediterranean dip that is made with tahini. Adding a roasted beet to hummus creates a smooth, delicious pink dip that is lighter and more

ﬂavorful than store-bought hummus. I shared this recipe for roasted beet hum-

mus a few years ago, but it is so good and complements baba ghanouj so well that I decided to write about it again For a quick and easy dip, mix tahini with plain Greek yogurt and lemon juice. This dip is great as a sauce to serve with vegetables or as a sauce with grilled chicken or lamb. This dip comes together in just a few minutes by mixing all of the ingredients in a bowl — no need for a food processor or blender This exploration of tahini would not be complete without adding it into a bowl of

melted chocolate to create a sweet treat. No-bake chocolate tahini crunch bars are great to keep chilled in the refrigerator for dessert or a brain-boosting snack. I added rice crispy cereal and dried cranberries, but these bars would be great with chopped dried apricots, cherries or your favorite nut or seed.

nutrients. served with vegetables or used as a spread. The dish is as nutritious as it is fun to say, because it is high in ﬁber healthy fats and vitamins.

Dear Miss Manners: I ran into an unexpected soup situation. My sister ﬂew cross-country to visit my mom and me, and my mom spent hours making a delicious soup so my sister would have a hot meal ready when she arrived. My mom is a great cook. Unfortunately, as we all sat down to eat, we noticed that a small brush, used for cleaning bottle parts, had fallen into the soup and had possibly

cooked with it for a while. My sister and I were pretty put off, but we could tell my mom would be heartbroken if we refused to eat it. What should we have done?

Judith Martin MISS MANNERS

Gentle reader: Immediate family rules about sanitary conditions around food may be marginally less strict by mutual consent, but consent is still key

As there were two of you, you and your sister could have resorted to any distraction and de-

ception techniques you may have worked out when you were young. Such as one of you declaring how great the soup was while the other whisks it to the kitchen before your mother could check the bowls.

Send questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners. com; to her email, dearmissmanners@gmail. com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City MO 64106.

The combination of dark chocolate and tahini are a lot like peanut butter and chocolate: two great tastes that taste great together Then again, chocolate makes most everything better

By The Associated Press

Today is Thursday, March 6, the 65th day of 2025. There are 300 days left in the year Today in history

On March 6, 1857, the U.S. Supreme Court in the Dred Scott v. Sandford decision, ruled 7-2 that Scott, an enslaved person, was not an American citizen and therefore could not sue for his freedom in federal court; it also ruled that slavery could not be banned from any federal territory

The decision deepened the national divide over slavery in the years leading up to the Civil War.

On this date: In 1820, President James Monroe signed the Missouri Compromise, which allowed Missouri to join the Union as a slave state and Maine to join as a free state, while banning slavery in the northern portion of the Louisiana Territory In 1836, the Alamo in

San Antonio, Texas, fell as Mexican forces led by General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna stormed the fortress after a 13-day siege; the battle claimed the lives of all the Texian defenders, including William Travis, James Bowie and Davy Crockett.

In 1869, chemist Dmitri Mendeleev introduced his concept of a periodic table of elements at a meeting of the Russian Chemical Society in St. Petersburg.

In 1912, Oreo cookies were ﬁrst introduced by the National Biscuit Company (later known as Nabisco).

In 1951, the trial of Julius and Ethel Rosenberg on federal espionage charges began in New York. In 1964, heavyweight boxing champion Cassius Clay took a new name given to him by Nation of Islam leader Elijah

PHOTO By JAN RISHER

PROVIDED PHOTO

The past queens of Hermes gathered for a luncheon Feb 24 in the Hermes Bar at Antoine’s Restaurant. Seated from left: Patricia Fitzgerald Simpson, Suzanne Stewart Kessenich, Beverly Walther Devier, Jan Gabler Cranfield (50-year queen), Chickie Springer Martin, Mary Jean Gabler and Barbara Batt Claiborne. Standing: Emily Elizabeth Davis, Emily Valentino, Lisa Alexandra Long, Tessa Martinez, Shelby Sanderford Dabelich, Constantine Elena Rodriguez and Mari-Ofe Tumminello.

PROVIDED PHOTO By DR. BOB PHOTOGRAPHy

of Momus toast Carnival Queens of the Momus ball gathered recently at Ralph’s on the Park for their annual luncheon. Seated from left are Susan Baldwin Gomila, Elizabeth Baldwin Hefler, Susan Stone O’Brien (50-year queen), Sarah Sumrall (2025 queen), Nancy Eaves, Susan Andry Milling, Margaret Kostmayer Charbonnet, Alice Parkerson and Morrell Trimble Corle. Standing are Annie Fowler Sarpy, Anne Chaffe Eichin, Ansley Schwing, Pierce Gibbons, Adair Friedrichs, Ruth Maginnis Blum, Julie Kahle Domingue, Elinor Dupuy, Anne Strachan and Shannon Burke Fritts.

PHOTO By LIZ FAUL Roasted Beet Hummus

PIscEs (Feb. 20-March 20) It's time to satisfy your curiosity and talk with people who make you think. Consider alternative lifestyles. A change of attitude will take you on an unforgettable journey.

ARIEs (March 21-April 19) Share your thoughts, make promises and follow through. Be the leader you know you are and stand your ground until you get things done. Changing how you use and handle your cash will help you deal with what's to come.

tAuRus (April 20-May 20) Putting others to work will help you make your life easier. Offering incentives will keep others happy and willing to work for you. A happy and positive mindset will make a difference

GEMInI (May 21-June 20) Keep your eyes wide open and concentrate on what's important to you. Reaching your goal depends on how you handle what's happening around you. Think big, but stick to a tight budget and a conservative plan.

cAncER (June 21-July 22) Stick to a plan, and don't stop until you are satisfied with the results. Be sure not to overlook fine details that can set you back. Focus on your mission and worry less about what others think.

LEo (July 23-Aug. 22) Expand your circle, listen and learn, and you'll stretch your imagination. Arguing is not productive; verify information and develop what will help you excel.

VIRGo (Aug. 23-sept. 22) You'll be pulled in different directions. Quickly discard

what does not apply to what you want to achieve. There is no time to waste. You can help someone, but first, set boundaries.

LIBRA (sept. 23-oct. 23) Share your wealth of knowledge with people who have as much to contribute as you do. The outcome will give you the footing you need to get a project started.

scoRPIo (oct. 24-nov. 22) A change will rejuvenate your body, mind and soul. Put your energy to work for you, instead of for someone trying to exploit your talents. Make the most of your time and money.

sAGIttARIus (nov. 23-Dec. 21) Stop and take a moment to review, redesign and establish what it is you want to pursue. Following someone else's lead will not help you meet your expectations. The choice is yours.

cAPRIcoRn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) A domestic change may not be fun, but it will help enhance your lifestyle. Stressful situations are best dealt with quickly and appropriately to avoid illness, financial loss or damage to your reputation.

AQuARIus (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) Spend more time building a nest that is conducive to the lifestyle you want to live. It's time to implement changes based on your needs instead of appeasing everyone else.

FAMILY CIrCUS

Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another toDAy's cLuE: M EQuALs J

CeLebrItY CIpher For better or For WorSe

FrAnK And erneSt

SALLY Forth

beetLe bAILeY

Mother GooSe And GrIMM

LAGoon

bIG nAte

Sudoku

InstructIons: sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once. The difficulty level of the sudoku increases from monday to sunday.

Yesterday’s Puzzle Answer

THe wiZard oF id

BLondie

BaBY BLueS

Hi and LoiS

CurTiS

By PHILLIP ALDER Bridge

Calvin Coolidge said, “The right thing to do never requires any subterfuge; it is always simple and direct.”

That is true most of the time at the bridge table — but not always. Occasionally, a little subterfuge might save the day. Can you see a devious piece of deception for declarer in this deal? South is in four hearts. West leads the club nine. East wins with his ace and returns the suit.

Northusedatransferbidshowingfiveplus hearts and zero-plus points. South used a superaccept, jumping to three hearts to promise a maximum with four hearts and a doubleton somewhere With three minor-suit losers, it looks as though the trump finesse had better be working.Butaquickpeekatthediagram shows you that it is losing. Does declarer have any chance?

East, after winning with the heart king, might retain his aversity to diamonds. Then declarer can draw trumps and discard two diamonds from the board, one on the third club and one on the fourth spade.

However, South has one other possibility. After winning the second trick, he should cash his third club and discard a spade from the board. Then he runs the heart queen. The finesse loses, but there is a good chance that East will shift to a spade. And if he does, declarer is home. Therearetwootherpoints.First,South has to think of that ruse — never stop considering the alternatives. And if East has a suspicious nature, it will be better to throw a diamond on the third club; then East will

Bizarro

hagar the horriBle

Pearls Before swiNe garfield

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.

Puzzle Answer ken ken

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

WiShinG Well

Scrabble GramS

crackerS

DuStin

Drabble

Wallace the brave

breWSter rockit

luann

March 6, 2025

THAT’S ‘FUNNY’

Saenger Broadway series presents ‘Funny Girl’

‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’: LPO plays along page 8

Andy Haynes: Comedy at Sports Drink page 4

don’t miss don’t miss don’t miss

barkus: rescheduled

No one likes wet paws, so the annual canine Carnival caravan was moved to Sunday in the French Quarter “Vanity Fur: Barkus Rules the Runway” will start and end at Armstrong Park and meander through the Vieux Carre, passing in front of St. Louis Cathedral before returning to the park. The parade rolls at 2 p.m. with King Petey Benson (Gayle and the late Tom’s Yorkie) and Queen Ruthie Sable (Dr Craig and Barb’s foxhound-dalmation mix). kreweofbarkus.org.

quilt show

The saying about the sum of the whole being greater than the parts is indeed true for the art of quilting and that will be on display Friday through Sunday when the Ozone Layers Quilt Guild stages “Life’s A Stitch!” from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. More than 100 handmade quilts and art works will be on view, with demonstrations, a jelly roll race and drawing for three quilts. It all happens at the Abita Springs Town Hall, 22161 Level St., Abita Springs. facebook.com.

‘urban legend’

A screening and virtual Q&A director Jamie Blanks will bring the 1990s horror classic to the big screen at The Broad Theater at 7:30 p.m. Monday. The film, starring Oscar winner Jared Leto, Alicia Witt, Loretta Devine, Tara Reid and a host of other fright-flick faves, spins the tale of a group of college students who start dying, all connected to Witt’s character and the legends. Screamfest NOLA and Timecode presents the evening that includes trivia and prizes. Tickets start at $12 for the flick at 636 N. Broad St. screamfestnola.com.

LAGNIAPPE STAFF

The Lagniappe section is published each Thursday by The Times-Picayune | The New Orleans Advocate. All inquiries about Lagniappe should be directed to the editor.

LAGNIAPPE EDITOR: Annette Sisco, asisco@theadvocate.com

oddities emporium

How about a twist on something that’s a little twisted to begin with? The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, 514 Chartres St., offers a different kind of courtyard market, with items described as “quirky, bizarre and sometimes dark” in the Sunday expo and adventure. Unique vendors will include taxidermy, ephemera and other out-ofthe-ordinary items. Plus, the museum’s ﬁrst ﬂoor will be open free. The market runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. pharmacymuseum.org.

COVER DESIGN: Cassandra Brown

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Victor Andrews, Will Coviello, Mike Scott, Keith Spera, Dean Shapiro

GET LISTED IN LAGNIAPPE

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

ON THE COVER

New York neighbors and friends Hannah Shankman and Stephen Mark Lukas appear as Fanny Brice and Nicky Arnstein in the upcoming tour of ‘Funny Girl’ opening at the Saenger Theatre. Photo by Matthew Murphy

events events events

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE

Comedian Andy Haynes brings his streak of dark humor to Sports Drink

BY WILL COVIELLO Gambit Weekly

Comedian Andy Haynes has performed in New Orleans once before, but it wasn’t a typical gig.

“It was Mark Normand’s wedding,” Haynes says from his home in New York. “He rented out Tipitina’s. It was all comics who were guests at the wedding. So everybody was there.”

Haynes is coming back this week for two nights of shows at Sports Drink.

His only other trip to New Orleans was an unplanned visit during the pandemic. When he tested positive for COVID in San Antonio, he and his girlfriend, comedian Rosebud Baker, decided not to get on a plane, and they drove home instead. They stopped off in New Orleans for three days in a then quiet city.

Haynes and Baker have had a busy few years since the pandemic began. They started a podcast together called “Find Your Beach.” They got married. She became a writer at “Saturday Night Live” in 2022. He released his latest special, “The Coward of Gramercy,” in 2023. And they had a baby.

Haynes also spent a year in England in a well-funded odd job. He had created the animated show “The Champions” on the sports platform Bleacher Report, and the show is based on the teams and players in the European Champions League.

When a bunch of crypto investors bought a British soccer club, they wanted a comedian to generate online content for it. Haynes ﬁt the bill perfectly He had always been a fan of soccer and of the British club Arsenal.

“I got a tattoo, I can’t go anywhere,” he says.

But the venture didn’t go as planned.

“They hired me to be their in-house comedian,” Haynes says. “I made

content for them. But the team was bad, and the fans hated the owners. Everything I made never got released.”

Back in the U.S., he has gotten

much more exposure, launching podcasts, recording specials and performing. He’s got a streak of dark humor, and a commitment to follow a joke regardless of social or political

sensitivities.

His Instagram bio is brief and says he’s a “libtard,” though he says it’s a misunderstood joke.

“For the longest time that said ‘patriot,’ as a joke,” he says. “Then people were like, ‘Are you a guy who calls yourself a patriot?’ so I changed it.”

He does not ﬁt a cookie-cutter political proﬁle. In one special, he talks about growing up in Washington state, going to the forest with a bong and a gun to shoot things.

“I am from Seattle,” he says. “The second you leave Seattle, it’s the wilderness. Most of Washington is rural, conservative, gun and all that cowboy bullshit. In Seattle, I had a rowdy adolescence. We’d go to the woods and shoot stuff. We shot up a porta-potty. There was a husk of a burnt out van that we used to go shoot.”

He started performing at open mics before he left Seattle, and he lived in Los Angeles for six years, pursuing comedy writing jobs. But he still wasn’t sure if he’d eventually go to ﬁlm school or into academia. And Los Angeles wasn’t always an easy place to be.

“Being unemployed in L.A. is how cults start,” he says. “Everyone is looking for spiritual guidance to get their next audition. I was going to hit pause on everything and go back to Seattle. I went to New York on a whim and had an amazing experience.”

He misses easy access to forests in New York, but it’s going well. He recently launched the “Beautiful Boys” podcast with Mike Cannon, and he’s working toward a special he’ll record next fall.

Andy Haynes performs at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Friday, March 7, and Saturday, March 8, at Sports Drink. Tickets $25 via sportsdrink.org.

Email Will Coviello at wcoviello@ gambitweekly.com.

PHOTO PROVIDED By ANDy HAyNES

Comedian Andy Haynes

To Indigenous people in 17th century Peru, a Madonna image evoked traditional Inca deity

BY ORLANDO HERNÁNDEZ YING Contributing writer

Our Lady of the Rosary of Guápulo is a devotional image venerated in the outskirts of Quito, Ecuador, and was promoted by a confraternity of local merchants dating back to 1587.

The original sculpture (now lost) from the sanctuary in Guápulo carved by the Spanish artist Diego de Robles inspired this painted copy and many others.

In the late 17th century, parish clergy members took a painting of the sculpture on a pilgrimage across the Andes to collect alms

ART BEAT

In this series, Lagniappe presents works from the collection of the New Orleans Museum of Art, with commentary from a curator.

to renovate her church. During that trip, the icon attracted more followers who in turn commissioned Indigenous painters in Cuzco, Peru, to make copies, such as the one shown here, for display in smaller parish churches and chapels.

The bejeweled mountain-like

Shows Shows Show ShowSpring Spring

shape of the Madonna’s cape and gown was interpreted by Indigenous devotees as a representation of the Inca goddess Pachamama or Mother Earth, an important deity in every aspect of human livelihood in the Andes.

Explore the solemn and exquisite character of iconic representations of the Virgin Mary in both Italy and Peru in the 17th and 18th centuries in “Our Lady of Loreto” and “Peruvian Viceregal Statue Paintings,” now on view at NOMA.

Orlando Hernández Ying is Lapis Curator of the Arts of the Americas.

PHOTO PROVIDED By ROMAN ALOKHIN

‘Our Lady of the Rosary of Guápulo,’ c. 1700

stages stages stages

DEEPER CON

‘Funny

G brings f

Victor Andrews

It’s not quite “life imitates art,” but neighbor to that concept. Sort of like who portray the “Funny Girl” and her Hannah Shankman, who brings to life Brice in the musical tour opening Tuesday Saenger Theatre, is a neighbor, close occasional roommate to Stephen Mark who plays Nicky Arnstein in the show Loosely based on Brice’ comedian, the show is a sical that features such melodies as “Don’t Rain rade,” “People” and “Sadie, Married Lady.” Grammy Melissa Manchester plays mother in the show Brice and Arnstein were in the 1920s. Their daughter ces would later marry ﬁlm producer Ray who produced the original Broadway picture version of the show.

The contemporary players met in New City when Shankman heard Lukas singing his apartment. A shared love of the arts oped into friendship and now, a mobile relationship that works on and off stage.

“It’s funny because we weren’t close show. We were deﬁnitely friendly, but clicked once we got on tour,” noted Shankman an email interview “He is such a valuable port system for me on the road. We have and nurtured trust in each other, which our onstage relationship to ﬂourish and well as our friendship offstage.

“It’s a gift to be able to tell this story with someone I feel so connected to.”

Connected works for Lukas as well.

“It’s by far the easiest love story of

PROVIDED PHOTOS By MATTHEW MURPHy

Hannah Shankman and Stephen Mark Lukas star in the national tour of ‘Funny Girl.’

ONNECTIONS

Girl’ at New Orleans Saenger Theatre friends closer in musical production

it’s a the actors r husband.

life Fanny esday at the friend and rk Lukas, show Brice’s life as a a mega-musuch memorable Rain on My Pa“Sadie, Sadie Grammy winner plays Brice’s were married daughter FranRay Stark, and motion

New York singing from arts develmobile working ge. close before the ut we really Shankman in valuable supave fostered which allows and grow as story each night my career

Grammy winner Melissa Manchester stars as Mrs. Brice with Hannah Shankman as the lead Fanny Brice in the national touring company of ‘Funny Girl,’ opening March 11 at the Saenger Theatre.

— her Fanny makes it so enjoyable to fall in love with her every night,” noted Lukas, who during his college years at New York University would perform in shows for Summer Lyric Theatre at Tulane University. “Besides, we just really get each other We’ve both had difﬁcult shows where we were deﬁnitely holding each other up. It’s such a gift to feel that supported and cared for during a long run of such a demanding role.”

That supportive nature extends off the stage as well.

“We have roomed together on tour and we have developed a sixth sense for when the other needs support and when we need space,” noted Lukas “And, we belly laugh together like you wouldn’t believe. We’ll be in separate rooms texting each other and just laughing We have a really compat-

ible sense of humor, which I think is so important

“After knowing each other peripherally (and accidentally ﬂooding her apartment when she lived below me!) it’s really been one of the most meaningful relationships I’ve had with someone onstage and off. I think it helps the show immensely that we’re so comfortable together in our personal lives.”

Taking on such iconic roles, particularly for Shankman, is a dream for an actor, and Shankman balances the perks with the challenges.

“My favorite part about playing this role is the incredible journey I get to take every night,” the “Funny Girl” reports. “I live an enormous life as Fanny over the course of the play and it’s magniﬁcently fulﬁlling as an actor

“However, it is deﬁnitely a challenging endeavor, especially on the road. I would say the most challenging thing about it is stamina. Doing the show is one thing, but when you also add the traveling, packing, changing hotels, changing theaters, changing climates (and) temperatures, it is incredibly taxing on your body. So, I really have to take care of my body and my mind in every second I have offstage.

“But I wouldn’t have it any other way. It’s a gift to be a part of this marvelous production and I feel very lucky to be here.”

It will be a return for Lukas (“I’ll have to stop for a beignet or four, and New Orleans coffee is my absolute favorite”) and a new experience for Shankman.

“It’s one of the few major cities I haven’t been to on tour,” she reports. “I am deeply excited to just feel the energy of the city.” Music, food, art and architecture are also big attractions for her when she visits.

“I cannot wait!”

Local audiences won’t have to wait long, either as the show runs at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday through March 13, 8 p.m. March 14-15, 2 p.m. March 15 and 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. March 16. Tickets start at $39 at the theater at 1111 Canal St. saengernola.com.

Bing

at the museum

A new show at The National WWII Museum looks at the legendary crooner Bing Crosby and his performances for troops and radio during the war years, aided by the Andrews Sisters.

“Bing and the Belles” features the museum’s vocal trio The Victory Belles getting ready for Bing’s birthday bash and reminiscences of his appearances and on the Armed Forces Radio Service.

The show, which can also include a lunch buffet in BB’s Stage Door Canteen, opens Wednesday and runs weekly into June, with the show at 12:45 p.m. and the lunch an hour prior. Tickets start at $22 at the museum at 945 Magazine St. nationalww2museum.org.

On stage this week March 6-12

“ALL’S WELL IN ROSWELL (ISN’T IT?)”: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, plus 2 p.m. Sunday; Slidell Little Theatre, 2024 Nellie Drive. When a UFO plunges into a ranch near Roswell, New Mexico in the late 1940s, rancher Ulysses T. Boone gets bombarded by government types, journalists and his family Plus his ranch hand Jake, a mysterious fellow who’s been around for a decade, turns out to be an alien waiting to be retrieved. “E.T., phone home?” Tickets start at $25. slidelllittletheatre. org.

Email Victor Andrews at vandrews@ theadvocate.com.

music music music

Classic accompaniment

‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’ score to be performed live by LPO with film on big screen

BY DEAN M. SHAPIRO

Contributing writer

The Ark of the Covenant may have been lost for thousands of years but, on Saturday night, it will be found in the Mahalia Jackson Theater when the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra performs the musical score to the award-winning ﬁlm, “Raiders of the Lost Ark.”

Composed by John Williams, the music for the 1981 action ﬁlm, starring Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones, was nominated for Best Original Score and eight other categories at the 1982 Academy Awards ceremony. At Saturday’s performance, the ﬁlm will be shown at the rear of the stage, and the LPO musicians will perform the score in synchrony with the action.

Thiago Tiberio is the visiting conductor for the production, which is made available through the licensing division of Disney Music Group.

The performance will be the latest addition to others in recent years in which the LPO played the scores to wellknown ﬁlms. These include Williams’ scores to “Star Wars,” “Superman,” “Harry Potter” and others.

According to LPO music director and resident conductor, Matthew Kraemer, the ﬁlm accompaniments are immensely popular with LPO audiences.

“John Williams is one of the iconic composers of the 20th century,” Kraemer said. “This is a fan favorite score, and the movie itself is a classic.”

The concert will be performed at the Mahalia Jackson Theater rather than at the LPO’s home venue, the Orpheum

‘RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK’

WHAT: A performance of the film’s musical score against the backdrop of the movie

WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Saturday (March 8)

WHERE: Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts, Louis Armstrong Park

TICKETS: $40-$95

INFO: (504) 523-6530, lpomusic.com

Theater, because Mahalia Jackson has a larger seating capacity and is equipped to project images.

2025-2026 season announced

Kraemer used the occasion to announce that the LPO has selected most of the pieces that will be performed during the 2025-2026 season, much of which will be focused on the 250th anniversary of the birth of the United States

“We’re doubling down on some amazing American composers,” Kraemer said, noting that the LPO will be debuting a world premiere by renowned composer James Lee III.

Lee’s “Concerto in A” is dedicated to the Gershwin Concerto in F Major which was composed a hundred years ago, Kraemer pointed out

Kraemer also noted that several pieces composed by Dmitri Shostakovich will be performed in commemoration of the 50th anniversary of his passing.

The season will open at the Orpheum on Sept. 26 with Kraemer conducting a performance of Verdi’s “Requiem Mass” with vocalists still to be announced.

The LPO will present 12 subscription concerts at the Orpheum Theater during the upcoming season. Pairing contemporary works with popular standards, the subscription package also includes LPO’s highly popular holiday concerts, Handel’s “Messiah” and its annual “Holiday Spectacular.”

Also on tap for the 2025-26 season are ﬁve separate performances in the LPO’s Chamber Orchestra Series staged in both the New Marigny Theatre in the Faubourg Marigny and at the Fuhrmann Auditorium in Coving-

ton.

“Each program will feature works by legacy composers, along with a work by a living composer with Louisiana roots, amplifying their contributions to the orchestral music landscape,” Kraemer said. “The series features both beloved works spanning over 300 years and new works that deﬁne the future of orchestral music.”

And, as is traditional, the LPO will perform classic works that are more familiar to concertgoers. These will include Stravinsky’s “Firebird Suite,” Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, Elgar’s “Enigma Variations,” Tchaikovsky’s “Romeo and Juliet Overture,” Bach’s “Brandenburg Concerto No. 2,” De-

bussy’s “Clair de Lune,” and four dance episodes from Copland’s “Rodeo.”

Also on the schedule for April 2, 2026, Kraemer will conduct Carlisle Floyd’s “Pilgrimage,” in what is being termed “an immersive opera experience,” presented in partnership with New Orleans Opera. The performance will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the birth of the late, renowned New Orleans-born bass-baritone Norman Treigle.

Other concerts and special programs will be announced during the season as the details are ﬁnalized, Kraemer said. Season tickets are on sale at lpomusic.com.

awhimsical moment

music music music

THURSDAY

Nordic Stew is a project of Finnish jazz saxophonist Timo Lassy and trumpeter Jukka Eskola that synthesizes the musical style of their homeland with the jazz of New Orleans. In 2022, they came to New Orleans for the ﬁrst time and recorded an album called “Nordic Stew” with local musicians. They return to perform at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Thursday at Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro with New Orleans drummer Herlin Riley, tuba player Matt Perrine, bassist Roland Guerin and pianist Seth Finch Tickets are $30. It’s Zydeco Night at Rock ‘n’ Bowl with Geno Delafose & French Rockin’ Boogie ($15). Keyboardist Joe Krown is featured for the weekly “Booker Sessions” at the Maple Leaf Bar at 6 p.m. ($10).

Drummer Johnny Vidacovich takes over at the Leaf at 8 p.m. accompanied by saxophonist Tony Dagradi and bassist Grayson Brockamp ($15 advance, $20 at the door).

Keith Spera SOUND CHECK

As New Orleans catches its collective breath after Mardi Gras, the upcoming week will be relatively quiet. Case in point: Tipitina’s is closed this weekend. But there is still live music to be found at the Maple Leaf Bar, Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro and elsewhere.

SATURDAY

FRIDAY

The Palm Court Jazz Band, an ensemble of musicians who were regulars at the now-shuttered Palm Court Jazz Café on Decatur Street, reunite to play traditional jazz at Snug Harbor at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $35.

Keyboardist Jon Cleary & the Absolute Monster Gentlemen funk up the Maple Leaf at 8 p.m. ($20 advance, $25 at the door). At 11 p.m., the GuitArmy invades the Maple Leaf with Mahmoud Chouki, Danny Abel, Chris Adkins, Josh Starkman and Raja Kassis on guitar, plus Lex Warshawsky on bass and Gerald Watkins on drums ($15 advance, $20 day of show).

Chickie Wah Wah hosts a “Post Carnival Zydeco Evening” with Sunpie & The Louisiana Sunspots and Jeffery Broussard & The Nighttime Syndicate Show time is 8 p.m.; tickets are $25. Moroccan-born, New Orleans-based master guitarist and multi-instrumentalist Mahmoud “Mood” Chouki leads his New World Ensemble for two shows at Snug Harbor, starting at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Tickets are $40.

Bassist Sam Price & the True Believers hit the Maple Leaf at 8 p.m. ($15 advance, $20 day of show). Then, at 11 p.m., the Maple Leaf has a separate show with trombonist Corey Henry & the Treme Funktet ($15 advance, $20 door).

At the Broadside, Buster Keaton’s silent ﬁlm “Sherlock Jr.” is screened while synced up with R.E.M.’s “Monster” and “New Adventures in Hi Fi” albums Tickets are $12.

Email Keith Spera at kspera@theadvocate.com.

Jon Cleary

music music music

SUNDAY

Texas singer-songwriter

Robert Earl Keen is still proving that, as his song attests, “The Road Goes On Forever.” Hear him at the House of Blues on Sunday Tickets start at $49.50 plus fees. Smooth jazz saxophon-

ist Clarence Johnson III and his band showcase original material and covers at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. at Snug Harbor ($30).

Catch the Joe Krown Trio + 1 featuring guitarist Papa Mali at the Maple Leaf at 9 p.m. ($15 advance, $20 day of show).

MONDAY

Singer and entertainer Charmaine Neville holds court at Snug Harbor at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. ($25).

Meters bassist George Porter Jr. funks up the Maple Leaf at 7 and 10 p.m. ($15 advance, $20 day of show).

TUESDAY

Ivan Neville & Friends — those friends include Tony Hall on bass, lan Neville on guitar and Deven Trusclair on drums — plug in at the Maple Leaf Bar at 9 p.m. for “The Shed Sessions” ($25 advance, $30 day of show).

Javier Olondo & Asheson showcase Latin music at Rock ‘n’ Bowl ($10).

Trumpeter Ashlin Parker’s Trumpet Mafia hits Snug Harbor at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. with its unique arrangements of jazz and hip-hop songs ($20).

WEDNESDAY

Keyboardist Jon Cleary continues his periodic solo residency at Chickie Wah Wah with an 8 p.m. show ($20).

Sweetie Pies of New Orleans play a free show at Snug Harbor at 5 p.m. Later at Snug Harbor, saxophonist Roderick Paulin leads the Uptown Jazz Orchestra at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. ($45)