Good morning, Slidell.

Residents can pick up free American flags at Rouses on Veterans Boulevard ahead of Fourth of July celebrations—an offer to help embrace the holiday spirit.

The flags are available for anyone looking to join in the local festivities.

Chase Heatherly, a veteran media executive, joined Georges Media at the end of June as chief revenue officer and will lead sales for the company’s Louisiana brands + including The Times-Picayune and The Advocate as it expands across the Gulf Coast.

AAA reports that more than 61.4 million people are expected to travel for Fourth of July weekend while gas in Louisiana averages $3.47 per gallon.

In Slidell, Sam’s Club on Northshore Blvd offers the lowest price at $3.09 per gallon plus a Shell outlet sells at $3.18 per gallon.

A recent study shows that Louisiana summer temperatures have risen from 81 to 82.4 degrees since records began in 1895, with industrial emissions and pollution identified as main drivers of warming.

Chief meteorologist Shel Winkley said burning fossil fuels adds a heat-trapping blanket to our region.

Pet columnist Traci Howerton advises local dog owners to set up quiet, secure spaces and schedule early potty breaks plus use calming background noise before Fourth of July fireworks to help ease pet anxiety and reduce lost pet incidents.

A Mississippi man — an experienced angler — contracted Vibrio vulnificus while fishing near Cat Island on Saturday, June 27 and was rushed to Slidell Memorial Hospital, where he is now fighting a severe leg infection.

The Bayou Lacombe Cardinals lost 24-18 to the Mississippi Mayhem in the NLFA championship game on June 27 in Terry, Miss, ending their perfect season for the third straight time.

The team will regroup as it prepares for next season.

Seussical JR the Musical

2-3:40 p.m. — Cutting Edge Center of the Arts — Tickets available — A vibrant musical adventure into the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss with beloved characters and stories.

Seussical JR the Musical

2:00 – 3:40 PM — Cutting Edge Center of the Arts — Tickets required — Enjoy the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss with beloved characters and captivating songs.

Seussical JR the Musical

7:00 – 8:40 PM — Cutting Edge Center of the Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss through beloved characters and musical numbers.

Seussical JR the Musical

7:00 – 8:40 PM — Cutting Edge Center of the Arts — Tickets required — Delight in a whimsical musical adventure through Dr. Seuss's beloved characters and tales.

Seussical JR the Musical

2:00 – 3:40 PM — Cutting Edge Center of the Arts — Tickets required — Experience the whimsical world of Dr. Seuss through a delightful musical journey with beloved characters.