UN HONNEUR. Tulane Law School professor Vernon Palmer, left, is a new "chevalier" in the French Legion of Honor, the country's highest civilian award. He received the accolade recently from the Hon. Pierre Lebovics, center, consul general of France, at a ceremony in the home of Tulane President Scott Cowen, right. The award recognizes Palmer's work in developing stronger ties between France, the United States and Louisiana. (Photo by Virginia Horner)