Good morning, Slidell.

Second Harvest Food Bank in Louisiana is seeing longer lines at distribution centers and meal sites amid a government shutdown that may force federal workers to seek help when paychecks stop—leaders say reduced government funding is making it a challenge to meet rising demand, and the food bank is asking for donations to support the community.

Smitty’s Supply has taken charge of cleaning its plant after an explosion — cleanup crews will work to restore safe operations at the facility.

The Louisiana BESE approved changes Wednesday that will reduce state tests for high school students—students will now take four state assessments instead of six and one comprehensive exam instead of two for English language arts and math at the end of 10th grade.

State Superintendent Cade Brumley said the approach listens to educators while keeping high standards in place.

Forecast models indicate a tropical system will form in the western Caribbean between Oct 22 and Oct 28, but strong high pressure & cold fronts will steer any storms away from Louisiana.

Tropical Storm Lorenzo has faded and is not expected to pose any threat.

Louisiana Lottery players might soon buy tickets online as Lottery president Rose Hudson told lawmakers on Oct.

14 that moving online is a natural evolution—state lawmakers will review the proposal in March. The project may cost $11 million and take one year to set up—officials plan to discuss further details at the next meeting.

SSA junior Caitlin Cambre celebrated her 17th birthday — marked by a convincing 25-12, 25-13, 25-17 district sweep against Lakeshore on Oct 14— and helped the team secure a strong win.

Coach Lisa Cardinale praised the team's consistent energy and serving skill, noting the victory improved the Doves' season record to 16-6.

On Oct. 12, 1,650 runners and walkers took part in the sold-out Northshore Half Marathon, 10 Miler, and Jockamo IPA 5K at Fontainebleau State Park, running a flat, fast course that passed through Old Mandeville and by the lakefront.

Blaine Sullivan and Hannah Bourque won the half marathon with times of 1:13:34 and 1:21:57, while Bryant White Jr. and Joanna Stephens led the 10 Miler and Jose Juan Esparza and Margaret Mary Tees won the IPA 5K.