On November eleventh, the U.S. Supreme Court heard arguments in a case involving a Louisiana inmate whose dreadlocks were forcibly shaved, raising questions about religious freedom and the ability to sue for damages. Damon Landor, a devout Rastafarian, had maintained his hair for twenty years in accordance with his faith. The core question before the Supreme Court was whether Landor could seek financial compensation from prison officials under the twenty-five-year-old RLUIPA. Zachary Tripp, representing Landor, argued that monetary compensation was implicitly allowed by Congress, even if not explicitly stated in the law. However, conservative justices expressed skepticism, questioning whether prison guards are clearly informed they could be personally liable for monetary damages when hired. The Supreme Court typically releases its decisions in June, and this ruling could significantly impact how religious rights are protected within correctional facilities nationwide.

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New Orleans city officials are contemplating a significant shift in their affordable housing plan, as recommended by HR&A Advisors. The proposed change involves abandoning the current mandatory inclusionary zoning policy, which requires developers to allocate a certain percentage of units as affordable. Instead, the city is considering a voluntary approach, asking developers to make five percent of units affordable citywide. This proposal has sparked debate, with some housing advocates supporting it due to soaring building costs and delays, while others express concern about conceding to real estate interests. The recommendations will be discussed by the City Planning Commission, but any changes are still far from becoming law.

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The Archdiocese of New Orleans, facing numerous clergy sexual abuse claims, is filing for Chapter Eleven bankruptcy on November eleventh. This pre-packaged bankruptcy aims to eliminate future financial liabilities, with parishes and charities contributing $60 million to a proposed $230 million settlement. The filings are expected to have minimal impact on daily operations, and a confirmation hearing will decide on the settlements approval. If approved, the archdiocese and affiliated entities will exit bankruptcy, marking an end to one of the nations longest-running church bankruptcy cases.

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On November eleventh, our reporter embarked on a coffee-making journey at Community Coffee in Port Allen, Louisiana, a first-time experience for a self-proclaimed coffee novice. The tour revealed the intricate process of roasting and packaging, from green coffee beans to the final product, with a focus on maintaining consistent flavor. The highlight was a cupping session, where our reporter tasted thirty cups of coffee, discovering the science and art behind the morning brew.

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On Veterans Day, Laura Plantation in Louisiana honors Black soldiers who fought for freedom, including nine formerly enslaved men. A ceremony recognizes 1,400 Black and Creole men from Louisiana who formed the Seventy-fifth United States Colored Infantry. Descendants of enslaved ancestors will read the names of these soldiers, with a new plaque unveiled and plans for a book and tour to highlight Louisianas Civil War role.

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Energy companies get new opportunity to bid on oil and natural gas leases in the Gulf of Mexico, marking the first sale since December 2023. The Working Families Tax Cut mandates these sales, with a 12.5% royalty rate. The Gulf holds vast reserves, estimated at 30 billion barrels of oil and 54 trillion cubic feet of natural gas. BOEM must hold at least 30 sales from 2026-2039, promising a predictable leasing schedule for decades.

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New Orleans Enforces Healthy Homes Program: Two Large Apartment Complexes Found Non-CompliantNew Orleans has begun enforcing its Healthy Homes program, a year after its initial deadline. The program, established in 2022, mandates landlords register rental properties and ensure they meet safety standards. Two apartment complexes, Gentilly Ridge and Magnolia Gardens, were found unregistered despite their February 2024 deadline. Residents reported safety issues, such as the lack of smoke detectors. The city had previously sent letters and fined the complexes, but they failed to comply. After a fire at Gentilly Ridge, the city again requested compliance. Both complexes eventually registered, but face late application fees and potential further fines. The city is now using software to identify unregistered rentals, suggesting a significant number remain non-compliant.

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Three teenagers plead guilty to manslaughter in the 2024 murder of French Quarter tour guide Kristie Gioe Thibodeaux, avoiding a trial. The victim was shot while sitting in her Jeep, and the suspects were identified through surveillance footage. The youngest received a 40-year sentence, while the other two received 20-year sentences. The victims family expresses relief, but still feels the pain of her loss.

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Senate Passes Bill to End Shutdown, Despite Democratic DivisionThe Senate passed a bill to reopen the government, ending the longest shutdown in U.S. history. The bill, which includes funding until late January, was passed after a group of Democrats agreed to a deal with Republicans. The bill also protects federal employees from further layoffs and ensures they will be paid once the government reopens. However, the bill was met with criticism from within the Democratic party, with some calling it a mistake. The House, which has been on recess since mid-September, will return to Washington to vote on the legislation. The final Senate vote was sixty to forty, breaking a difficult stalemate that had lasted over six weeks.

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In Lafourche Parish, Louisiana, a middle school student faces criminal charges for allegedly sharing AI-generated nude images of female classmates. The Lafourche Parish Sheriffs Office is investigating, highlighting the growing concern about AI misuse among young people. The incident began with a school bus altercation and led to a public update after a school board meeting. Sheriff Webre emphasizes the lengthy nature of tech-related investigations and urges parents to discuss digital literacy and responsible online behavior with their children.

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