| By DREW BROACH | Deputy metro editor |
SUFFERING SO YOUNG: Within 16 days this summer, one Louisiana toddler died of a fentanyl overdose and another of a presumed beating - despite repeated warnings to the state Department of Children and Family and Services that they were not safe in their homes. That’s because the state agency is in crisis, hemorrhaging staff even as reports of child abuse and neglect soar. CALL FOR CAPITAL: For decades, boosters and small business owners in vast New Orleans East have struggled to attract private investment, more dining options and major retailers. They rejoiced briefly last week, at a false report that Target was going to open a department store, and now they’ve formed a new coalition to help their cause and are planning a neighborhood festival. (For more business news, subscribe to our free NOLA Business Insider newsletter, emailed weekday mornings.) MAKING THEIR CASE: The NFL preseason is all about picking which players will make each team’s 53-player roster. Now that the New Orleans Saints have two preseason games behind them, here are three players who have made a strong case for themselves. (Sign up for our free Saints newsletter, emailed daily during football season.) Thanks for starting your Sunday with Morning Headlines. Keep up with today's breaking news on NOLA.com. D.B. | 