| By Bob Warren
Homer Plessy pardon: This morning the state Pardon Board unanimously recommended a posthumous pardon for Homer Plessy, the New Orleans civil rights pioneer whose attempt to sit in a Whites-only section of a train car in 1892 led to the U.S. Supreme Court's infamous "separate but equal" declaration. Our Matt Sledge has this dispatch from the hearing.
Unsolved murder: Another old case is getting fresh attention. Margaret Coon’s murder in a gated subdivision in Mandeville has gone unsolved for more than 34 years and been the subject of speculation and lore for decades. Now, it’s getting the true-crime podcast treatment.
Painted out, painted in: Doug MacCash has a fascinating story of Bélizaire, an enslaved teen, and the 1837 painting in which he figures so prominently. No spoilers here – read Doug’s story.
Textured hair: Folks who style hair will soon see something new on the state licensing exam. Beginning next June, the Louisiana Board of Cosmetology will make cutting textured hair - the type that typically belongs to people of color - a requirement to get a license, Missy Wilkinson report.
Under the boardwalk: Finally, a group of volunteers recently planted some irises along the Wetland Trace Nature Boardwalk in Jean Lafitte. But they weren't just any irises. Check out Sophia Germer's photo gallery for more.
Hope you enjoyed the Lunch Line. Thanks for taking a break with us today. BW | 
