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In a move that’s got Geaux Tigers Nation buzzing from Baton Rouge to the bayous of South Louisiana, LSU Athletics has inked a blockbuster long-term extension with Nike, solidifying a partnership that’s been fueling Tiger triumphs for over five decades.
Announced Thursday by Director of Athletics Verge Ausberry, the deal stretches through 2036, ensuring that purple-and-gold warriors across every sport will continue to lace up, gear up, and show up in Swoosh-branded excellence.
Nike, LSU Ushers in New Era of NIL Innovation
This isn’t just a renewal—it’s a full-throttle evolution. Nike, the global juggernaut born from college track fields and built on athlete dreams, is doubling down on its Baton Rouge roots by launching the Blue Ribbon Elite NIL program right here in Tiger Stadium country.
Named after the original Blue Ribbon Sports (Nike’s pre-Swoosh days), this first-of-its-kind initiative flips the script on Name, Image, and Likeness deals, turning 10 standout LSU student-athletes into co-creators of the brand’s future.
“LSU and Nike are two of the top brands in sport and an ideal duo,” Ausberry said in a statement that echoed the electric energy of Death Valley on game night.
“We are both continuously looking to innovate and stay ahead of the game, and that’s what we intend to do in the future with this extended partnership. LSU has always been at the forefront of NIL strategy, and as the launchpad for Nike Blue Ribbon Elite, we look forward to working with Nike to offer our student-athletes unrivaled opportunities to capitalize on their brands.
“For NOLA sports fans who bleed purple (and maybe a little Saints black and gold on the side), this hits home. LSU isn’t just our neighbor up I-10—it’s the heartbeat of Louisiana pride, from national titles in football and baseball to gymnastics gold and softball slugfests.
Keeping Nike in the fold means more cutting-edge gear for the gridiron gladiators under new head coach Lane Kiffin, sharper spikes for the diamond dynamos, and fresh fits for the hoops heroes who light up the PMAC.
But the real game-changer? Those 10 NIL signees, a diverse squad spanning six sports, who aren’t just wearing the Swoosh—they’re shaping it. Here’s the roster of Tigers now etched into Nike’s elite blueprint:
Athlete Sport Kailin Chio Gymnastics Derek Curiel Baseball Tori Edwards Softball Casan Evans Baseball Trey’Dez Green Football Jayden Heavener Softball ZaKiyah Johnson Basketball DJ Pickett Football Jurnee Robinson Volleyball Dedan Thomas Jr. Basketball These aren’t cookie-cutter endorsements. Nike’s Blue Ribbon Elite promises deep dives into product innovation, brand campaigns, and creative direction—think custom kicks co-designed by a Tiger gymnast or storytelling spots that capture the grit of a Baton Rouge summer workout.
“Renewing our partnership with LSU and welcoming 10 new NIL athletes is about more than gear,” said Ann Miller, Nike’s EVP of Global Sports Marketing. “It’s about collaboration, creativity and meaningful impact, giving athletes a platform to influence product, innovation, storytelling and culture. LSU and these athletes aren’t just representing Nike—they’re helping us redefine what partnership means in this new era of college sport.”
For LSU, which has led the NIL charge since the gates opened in 2021, this is validation of its powerhouse status.
Deputy AD for External Affairs Zach Greenwell put it bluntly: “As we head into 2026, leading in NIL doesn’t just mean money. Excelling in today’s competitive NIL space also means offering the best access to and execution of true third-party deals. LSU provides elite earning potential to our student-athletes, but our greatest edge is the volume of special opportunities available to them when they put on the purple and gold.”
As the Tigers gear up for the Texas Bowl clash with Houston and beyond, this Nike lifeline feels like rocket fuel for recruiting and rivalries alike.
Imagine Kiffin’s squad storming the field in bespoke uniforms born from athlete input, or the Lady Tigers softballers swinging for fences in gear that’s as fierce as their swings. It’s a reminder that in the SEC’s shark tank, LSU isn’t just swimming—it’s leading the school.
From the French Quarter to Fat City, we’re raising a glass (or a chicory coffee) to more decades of dominance. Geaux Tigers—and Geaux Nike.
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New Orleans, the Crescent City where jazz notes linger in the humid air and every corner hides a story of resilience, has long been a beacon for travelers seeking soul-stirring music, Creole feasts, and that indefinable magic.
But in an era of headlines screaming about crime waves and global uncertainties, one question echoes louder than a second-line brass band: Is it safe to visit right now? As we settle into the new year—a season of twinkling holiday lights along the Mississippi and early whispers of Mardi Gras—the answer is a resounding yes, with a few caveats.
New Orleans is safer than it’s been in decades, buoyed by plummeting crime rates and bolstered security measures. Yet, like any vibrant metropolis, it demands street smarts. This guide cuts through the noise, blending fresh data, local insights, and practical advice to help you plan a worry-free escape to the Big Easy.
Is New Orleans a Safe City?
The short answer? Yes—New Orleans is safer than it’s been in decades for tourists sticking to the well-trodden paths. Crime rates are plummeting, the hurricane season is winding down without drama so far, and the U.S. State Department rates it a standard “Exercise Increased Caution” for urban crime risks, on par with many big U.S. cities. But like any vibrant metropolis, a dash of street smarts goes a long way. Let’s break it down with the latest scoop.
If you’re headed to New Orleans for Mardi Gras or another festive event, you should educate yourself on many things, crime, included. But, again, that doesn’t mean New Orleans is different than other similar cities.
How Safe is New Orleans: A Guide For Visitors
When it comes to travel, it’s natural to prioritize your safety first and foremost. That’s what you should do when visiting any city. But here’s what you need to know about the safety in the Crescent City.
This article will tell you how safe New Orleans is from two perspectives — crime and COVID.
Crime
New Orleans is as safe as its ever been these days. While there are news reports of murders on the regular, that is the case in many cities with populations as large as New Orleans.
The key is safety in New Orleans, like it is in many cities, is to do what you can to stay away from known trouble spots and to be awere of your surroundings at all times.
For what it’s worth, the city is known to look after its own and cater to tourists and weekend visitors.
COVID
What it comes to COVID, New Orleans has some of the lowest numbers its had in nearly three years. As of October 10, 2022, here are the city’s COVID levels.
Via Google.com To see the current status of COVID cases in Louisiana, check out the state’s official website. That being said, New Orleans doesn’t have any travel restrictions or quarantine requirements for travelers to abide by. Travel to the Crescent City does come with risks, as it does in any big city. The main reason has nothing to do with COVID.
Travel To New Orleans: What You Need To Know
Now let’s talk about traveling to New Orleans and the other aspects involved in that.
Read Hotel Reviews
To secure lodgings at a place that you can trust, it’s good to read up on hotel reviews in the area you want to stay. Some things you’ll want to take particular note of are:
- Cleaniness
- Customer service
- Free breakfast bar
- Parking (free or paid)
New Orleans is a mecca for revelers. That means there are frequently intoxicated tourists on the streets at all hours.
Here the best hotels in New Orleans.
Book Some Transportation
New Orleans has a lot of taxicabs, but just like everywhere else, Uber and Lyft has really reduced the need for public transit. That means that there are fewer taxicabs on the street. Always map your journey before you go and tell someone when you expect to arrive at your destination.
Here are some top taxi cab companies in New Orleans.
Stay Away From High-Crime Areas
Every city has places that would be best avoided by visitors. New Orleans is no different. If you look and feel out of place, there’s a good chance you are.
Here’s an example: In any city, you would want to make sure you park in well-lit areas and don’t dress too flashy when out on the town. It’s a recipe for a rough night.
Don’t know where to hang out in New Orleans? Talk to the locals.
Final Word
Urban crime has been a problem in many cities across America, and New Orleans, Louisiana, is no different. But how safe is the city?
If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans, like anywhere else, be aware of your surroundings at all times.
This one goes for where ever you go: Be mindful of your environment. There are pickpockets and scammers in every big cities in the world. If you plan to walk down Bourbon Street, you especially need to be careful.
If you’re thinking about traveling outside the country right now, safety should be your top priority. The COVID pandemic continues to rage around the world.
Instead of international travel, you might want to stick to one of the domestic cities like New Orleans, Louisiana. The food is good and there is plenty to see and do there.
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As the Crescent City shakes off its Thanksgiving turkey coma, Black Friday fever is already gripping shoppers from the French Quarter to the suburbs of Metairie.
With holiday lights twinkling along Magazine Street and traffic buzzing on I-10, locals are plotting their routes to snag doorbusters on everything from tech gadgets to festive decor.
Black Friday Store Hours: New Orleans
This year, major retailers are kicking off the sales frenzy earlier than ever, with many doors swinging open at the crack of dawn – or even before.
Gone are the midnight madness marathons of yesteryear; instead, chains like Kohl’s and JCPenney are starting as early as 5 a.m. to accommodate bleary-eyed bargain hunters.
While most stores shuttered tight on Thanksgiving Day to give employees a much-needed breather, Black Friday promises extended hours to maximize your deal-snatching potential.
Expect crowds at popular spots like the Lakeside Shopping Center in Metairie or the Outlet Collection at Riverwalk downtown, where national brands mingle with local flair.
Whether you’re hunting for a flat-screen TV at Best Buy or stocking stuffers at Target, planning your attack is key.
Pro tip: Download store apps for real-time inventory checks and consider carpooling to dodge the post-feast gridlock on Veterans Memorial Boulevard. And don’t forget – online deals are live now, so you can shop in pajamas if braving the bayou humidity isn’t your vibe.
To help you map out your itinerary, here’s a handy table of Black Friday hours for top area retailers. Note that some closing times may vary by specific location, so double-check with your local store. All times are local.
Retailer Opening Time Closing Time Walmart 6 a.m. 11 p.m. Target 6 a.m. Varies by location Best Buy 6 a.m. 10 p.m. Macy’s 6 a.m. 11 p.m. Kohl’s 5 a.m. Midnight JCPenney 5 a.m. Varies by location Home Depot 6 a.m. Normal closing time Lowe’s 6 a.m. Normal closing time Costco 9 a.m. (Executive Members) / 10 a.m. (others) Normal closing time Dick’s Sporting Goods 6 a.m. 10 p.m. Old Navy 5 a.m. (select stores) Varies by location Stay safe out there, NOLA – hydrate, wear comfy shoes, and may the deals be ever in your favor. Happy hunting! For more local holiday coverage, including fleur-de-lis light displays and second-line shopping events, keep it tuned to NOLA News.
Want more tips? Read our guide on where to shop in New Orleans.
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The weather has been hot this season and that has afforded us ample opportunity to wear our favorite halter tops.
This article is going to go over some of the best places to buy halter tops for summer.
Here Are Some Great Halter Tops To Wear This Season
If you want to shop in-person, these stores typically have great halter tops:
Best Halter Tops For Your Money
Floerns Women’s Solid Criss Cross Halter
Casual Leopard Print Halter Top
Summer Sleeveless High Neck Halter Tank
Deep V Neck Cut Out Halter Top
Pleated And Sleeveless Tank Top Halter Top
How To Shop for Halter Tops
As a savvy shopper looking for halter tops, here are practical consumer tips to get the best value, quality, and style:
Know Your Body Type and Fit Needs
- Halter tops accentuate shoulders and arms but vary in neckline and back coverage. Try on different styles (high-neck, deep V-neck, or backless) to find what flatters your figure.
- Check sizing charts, especially for online purchases, as halter tops can fit differently across brands. Measure your bust, waist, and neck to ensure proper fit.
- Look for adjustable straps or ties for a customizable fit, especially if you’re between sizes.
Prioritize Quality Materials
- Opt for breathable fabrics like cotton, linen, or blends for comfort, especially in warm weather. For dressier options, silk or satin blends add elegance.
- Avoid cheap synthetics (like low-grade polyester) that pill or fade quickly. Check fabric content labels for durability.
- Inspect stitching and hems for loose threads or weak seams, as halter tops rely on sturdy construction around the neck and back.
Shop Seasonally for Deals
- Halter tops are summer staples, so shop end-of-season sales (late August to September) for deep discounts on last season’s styles, which often cycle back into fashion.
- Check for off-season deals at retailers like Nordstrom Rack, Zara, or H&M, where you can find halter tops marked down 30–70%.
- Use price-tracking tools like Honey or CamelCamelCamel for online purchases to monitor price drops on sites like Amazon or ASOS.
Compare Prices Across Retailers
- Browse both physical stores and online platforms (e.g., Revolve, Shein, or Forever 21) to compare prices. Fast-fashion retailers often have budget-friendly options, but check reviews for quality.
- Look at secondhand platforms like Poshmark, ThredUp, or Depop for gently used or vintage halter tops at a fraction of the cost—often under $15.
- Use apps like ShopSavvy to scan barcodes in-store and find better deals online.
Final Word
Who doesn’t love to wear halter tops? When the weather’s warm, there is no better piece of clothing to put on.
When you think about the type of body that looks the best in a halter top, the truth is that it depends on how confident the person is. The more confidence you exude, the better you will look and feel in a halter top or any article of clothing.
With that being said, wearing a nice-looking halter top has a lot to do with the rest of your outfit, to make the ensemble pop, try these killer heels.
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Are you ready to set your clocks back? Daylight savings time can be great for those who want to take advantage of the sunlight for work or leisure purposes. It’s also mandated by many states across the country.
How did daylight savings time begin and more importantly, when is it happening this year? This article will answer everything you want to know about daylight savings time.
When Is Daylight Savings Time This Year?
Daylight savings time takes place on the first Sunday in November, which is Nov. 3, 2024 — so set your clocks accordingly. Earlier this year, daylight savings time began on March 10.
Please check local regulations as the dates may vary by region.
A History: How Daylight Savings Time Came To Be
The history of Daylight Saving Time (DST) dates back over a century, rooted in the idea of making better use of daylight during the longer days of summer. Here’s a brief overview:
Early Ideas and Proposals
- Benjamin Franklin (1784): Franklin is often credited with the idea, though his suggestion was made in a satirical essay. He suggested that Parisians could save money on candles by waking up earlier to take advantage of natural daylight.
- William Willett (1907): A British builder, Willett advocated for DST in his pamphlet The Waste of Daylight. He proposed setting clocks forward during the summer to enjoy longer daylight hours and conserve energy.
The First Implementation
- Germany (1916): The first official use of DST was in Germany during World War I. On April 30, 1916, the German Empire and Austria-Hungary set their clocks forward to save fuel for the war effort by reducing the need for artificial lighting.
- Britain and the U.S.: Following Germany’s lead, Britain introduced DST in May 1916. The United States followed in 1918, but the practice was unpopular and was abandoned after the war.
Further Developments
- World War II: DST made a comeback during World War II. The U.S. and Britain reintroduced it as part of their wartime efforts to save resources.
- Post-War Era: After WWII, DST was left to the discretion of local governments in the U.S., which led to confusion as different regions adopted different schedules.
Uniform Time Act (1966)
- In response to the confusion of varied time practices, the U.S. passed the Uniform Time Act in 1966. This established a standardized start and end date for DST across the country, though states could opt out.
Modern Changes
- Energy Policy Act (2005): In the U.S., the Energy Policy Act of 2005 extended DST. Since 2007, DST starts on the second Sunday in March and ends on the first Sunday in November.
- Global Usage: Many countries have adopted and abandoned DST at various times. While widely used in Europe and North America, several countries in Africa and Asia do not observe DST.
The main argument for DST has historically been energy conservation, but in recent decades, its effectiveness has been debated. Some argue it disrupts sleep and health patterns and causes confusion in modern, interconnected economies.
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Legendary rapper and businessman Master P has been appointed as entertainment ambassador for the Super Bowl, which is in New Orleans early next year.
The big game will be held February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome, the venue’s 11th Super Bowl and first since 2013.
In a Facebook post, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell announced Master P’s role, saying “I’m thrilled to announce Percy “Master P” Miller as New Orleans’ new Entertainment Ambassador! This partnership marks a pivotal moment for our city as we strive to elevate our community through meaningful initiatives that will strengthen our nighttime economy, cultural economy, and overall economic development.
“Master P, born and raised in the Calliope Projects, has significant influence in the entertainment world and beyond, advancing opportunities that will benefit us all. As we prepare for major events, this collaboration will help ensure that New Orleans remains on the world stage,” Cantrell said.
“Together, we’re building a city that honors our past and celebrates our future,” she continued.
Master P, born Percy Miller, is a highly influential figure in the music, entertainment, and business industries. Here are some of his major accomplishments:
- Founder of No Limit Records: Master P founded No Limit Records in 1991, which became one of the most successful independent record labels in hip-hop. The label released numerous platinum and gold albums, contributing significantly to the success of Southern rap.
- Music Career: As a rapper, Master P released several successful albums, including Ice Cream Man (1996) and Ghetto D (1997), which featured the hit single “Make ‘Em Say Uhh!” His music played a key role in popularizing Southern hip-hop.
- Entrepreneurship: Master P is a savvy businessman with ventures in various industries, including film, television, real estate, and fashion. He created P. Miller Enterprises, which oversees his numerous business ventures.
- Film and Television: Master P has acted in and produced several films, including I Got the Hook-Up (1998) and Foolish (1999). He also starred in his reality TV show, Master P’s Family Empire.
- Basketball: Master P briefly played professional basketball, signing contracts with the Charlotte Hornets and Toronto Raptors during the 1998-1999 NBA preseason.
- Philanthropy: He has been involved in various philanthropic efforts, including funding scholarships, supporting underprivileged communities, and disaster relief efforts.
Final Word
Master P is a good look for the city’s culture but what music acts he highlights remains to be seen.
Entertainment is a part of New Orleans’ culture for sure. from jazz clubs to the city’s diverse bar scene, from historic cocktail bars to trendy craft beer spots. listening to lie music is a popular nighttime activity, especially in areas like the French Quarter and the Warehouse District.
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A fashionable suit can go a long way toward your reputation and just looking and feeling good. In the Big Easy, that’s not too hard.
In this article, we’re going to show you where you can buy a suit in New Orleans. We’ll also look at some places where you can buy suits online.
Here’s Where You Can Buy Suits Online And Locally In New Orleans
Suits are not only cosmetically pleasing, but a well-fitting tailored clothing they also can build your confidence.
Indochino
3944 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 584-8982
Rubensteins
102 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 581-6666
Brooks Brothers
333 Canal Street Space 1.21A, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 522-4200
Jeff’s Haberdashery
4100 General De Gaulle Dr suite d-1b, New Orleans, LA 70131 | (504) 393-7074
Now let’s take a look at some of the best suits you can find online. The following suits come from Amazon.com.
Kenneth Cole Reaction Slim Fit
Calvin Klein Slim Suit
Men’s 3-Piece Suit
Grey Kenneth Cole Reaction Suit
Slim Fit Button Blazer Jacket And Pants
Final Word
No matter the season, dressing up is a great feeling. In New Orleans, Louisiana, the city is so colorful that you’ll do yourself a favor by always looking the part.
Dressing to impress takes time, effort and money. If you’re someone who wears a suit from time to time, you can appreciate the many places in New Orleans where you can buy nice clothes.
One of the things that makes the place special is the people, which are eager to show you a good time via parties and authentic New Orleans cuisine.
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It’s never easy to just walk into the gym and start working out. You have to work yourself up to that point. As a beginner, exercise may be a process, and that’s OK.
In many cases, what you need is a basic understanding of how the equipment works. You can get seriously injured if you lift weights and other equipment and don’t know how to use them properly.
In this article, we’ll show you how to use gym equipment the right way. I’ve pulled some videos from Instagram to show you how to use gym equipment effectively and safety.
How To Use Gym Equipment The Right Way
Deciding on which part of the body you want to exercise is what determines what gym equipment you need. Let’s take a look at some equipment and how to use it.
Jump Rope
View this post on InstagramAb Pullups
View this post on InstagramBuy Some Free Weights
You might want to think about investing in some free weights to build muscle and tone along with your workouts. Here are some free weight options from Amazon:Resistance Bands
View this post on InstagramStability Ball
View this post on InstagramPilates
View this post on InstagramFinal Word
Being a beginner doesn’t mean you should skimp on safety when it comes to working out. If you need to hire a professional trainer, that is an option you should look into.
Don’t forget that you can add weight to get more resistance no matter what exercise you do.
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If you have your eye on a specific dress, you may be able to get it cheaper without having to wait for a sales event like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or other holiday sales. You may be able to get a better deal by waiting for the right time to buy.
In this article, we’re going to show you what you can wear when you’re out and about. These are some of the best dresses you can wear when you consider how they allow your skin to breathe. They also aren’t tight so you have full range of motion.
These Are The Best Dresses To Wear In The City
This outfits may not be your standard attire, but you might look pretty good if you give one of them a try. After all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Spring And Summer Dress
Bell Sleeve Shift Dress
Women’s Workout Dress
Casual V-Neck Summer Dress
Final Word
Fashion sense is a lot like opinions. Everyone has a uniquely different one. If you’re planning to go out to have a good time, you may be wondering what to wear.
Rather than being an item-based thing, fashion sense is one of those sensitivities that you either have or don’t have. Of course, you can fake it until you make it, but after a while, the truth will come out.
The way you dress in many cases is how you feel, so if you put on nice clothes, you may have a better feeling about yourself. The best dresses are often those that make you feel good inside.
NolaFi brings you the best of New Orleans, from the food, the culture and the people. For the latest in what’s happening in New Orleans — and what to do there — stay with Nolafi.com.
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Everybody knows that the Nike brand has some of the nicest sneakers in the shoe industry. But what exactly do we mean by “fresh?”
In this article, we’re going to show you some of the best pairs of Nikes available online.
Nike’s marketing campaigns are often groundbreaking and memorable. Their “Just Do It” slogan, introduced in 1988, has become one of the most recognized and successful campaigns in advertising history. Nike has also been adept at associating its brand with top athletes, further enhancing its image.
