| By Bob Warren
Garbage DIY: New Orleans residents tired of watching the garbage stack up at their curbs can now bring it to a drop-off center. It's free - but city officials say there might be long lines. Some parts of the metro area have been dealing with garbage pickup delays, made worse by the fact that most folks had to empty the fridge due to power outages after Hurricane Ida.
Longer school days: Students around the metro area are just returning to their classes this week. But after being away from the classroom for a couple weeks following Hurricane Ida (it'll be even longer in some cases) students will have to make up the lost time. That could mean longer days or the loss of some holidays.
FEMA? Insurance? Get answers: Been turned down for FEMA financial assistance after Hurricane Ida? You can appeal. Here’s what you need to know. On a related note, got questions about insurance? (Of course you do!) Kick 'em over to us. We're hosting state Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon in a virtual town hall on Thursday.
It might never stop raining: Hate to sound like a broken record, but get ready for more rain. Sorry. Nicholas, now a depression, is expected to dissipate in a couple days. The rain? Not so much.
Saints and COVID: In addition to being away from home due to the post-Hurricane Ida mess, the Saints are also dealing with COVID issues. Several coaches have tested positive and injured wide receiver Michael Thomas was put on the NFL's COVID-19 list. Amie Just on what it means for Sunday's game.
The great statue hunt: Here’s one that has nothing to do with the hurricane (except maybe the timing). Word began to spread through social media last weekend that a well-known bronze statue in the French Quarter – it’s called “Michelle” – was suddenly missing. Our Doug MacCash jumped on the story.
Thanks for taking a break with the Lunch Line today. Stay safe. BW | 
