A new way to tell the story of Louisiana's disappearing coast, women pitmasters reign supreme and pandemic pup returns are increasing
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This week we have stories that touch on everything from the environment and women in barbecue to puppy love and what's happening with "pandemic pets" that are returned to the pound.
Also, is it as scorching hot where you live as it is in New Orleans right now?
Louisiana photographer aims to portray climate change without the disaster
New Orleans-based photographer Virginia Hanusik has been working to photograph Louisiana in a way that portrays the state's climate crisis through a cultural lens.
Contributed by Virginia Hanusik
Meet Virginia Hanusik, a New Orleans-based photographer who has worked for years to portray the climate struggles of South Louisiana in a way that emphasizes the beauty of the environment.
Hanusik's photography seeks to answer a complex question: Can the urgency of climate matters be conveyed in a way that reveres the state's beauty instead of reflecting on its constant losses? 🌎
In our Q&A with Virginia you can learn more about her breathtaking photos and unique approach to addressing climate change in the South.
In the Southern barbecue world, female pitmasters are rising to the top
Helen Turner, owner and pitmaster of Helen's Bar-B-Q in Brownsville, Tenn., was featured in Southern Living magazine as one of the most influential women in barbecue.
Robbie Caponetto / Southern Living
The ladies of barbecue have arrived! 🔥In a world where smoked meat is often spun as macho and men far outnumber women, these Southern female pitmasters are hovering over the pits, competing, winning and owning their own businesses.
"I had people come in, men pretty much, and say can't no woman do this job. But I done proved everybody wrong," says Helen Turner, owner of Helen's Bar-B-Q in West Tennessee. "It makes me feel proud to be a woman pitmaster. Everybody says, 'you're the queen.'"
Our story features: Helen Turner, Desiree Robinson, Brooke Lewis, Jiyeon Lee and Melissa Cookston.
As pandemic eases, once-loved pets being dumped at shelter in 'disheartening' numbers
Dogs wait to be adopted at the Montgomery Humane Society in Montgomery, Ala., on Friday, July 23, 2021.
Jake Crandall/ Advertiser
Excerpt
Montgomery Humane Society Executive Director Steven Tears said they are asking pet owners to hold on just a few more weeks to reduce the overwhelm at the city's shelter.
"It's disheartening. It's the animal that got them through their tough time. I've been here 16 years. You'd think I'd expect that, but it kind of took me aback. It's tough to watch. A dog that stuck by your side for 18 months… was your buddy, and now all of the sudden you have to go back to work and he or she is disposable again," Tears said.
