Responding to a hostage situation Thursday, a Lafayette SWAT negotiator was killed in the line of duty.  Brooke Thorington

Cut 1 (27) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”

A candlelight vigil will be held in his memory tonight (Friday July 26th) at Jeanerette City Hall at 7 pm.

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Legislative leaders have announced no special session on tax reform this year, but they want to take a crack at it before their term is up. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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There are new rules for New Orleans Mardi Gras on what you can’t bring to parade routes. Mardi Gras Guide publisher Arthur Hardy says the devil isn’t just in the details it’s also in enforcement. He says it will be interesting to see how that’s carried out. Among the banned items are…

Cut 3 (10) “…now banned.”

In addition to portable toilets, tents, and canopies on public property; Hardy says grills, BBQ pits, and generators are prohibited.

Cut 4 (07) “…anymore.”

Reptiles and horses are also prohibited within 200 feet of a parade route, except for horses participating in the parade.

Many revelers are used to bringing many of the banned items for decades, so Hardy believes the new rules will be
hard to enforce especially the closer you get to Fat Tuesday when the crowd sizes increase.

Cut 5 (06)  “…buy in.”

Throw guidelines have also changed, among the banned throws are confetti, silly string, and anything with a sharp point.

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There will not be a tax reform special session this year, but House Speaker Phillip DeVillier says the goal for this Legislature is to pass some meaningful reforms in the near future to bring more businesses to the state. DeVillier says he would like to get suggestions from the Louisiana Department of Economic Development

Cut 6 (12) “…and why?”

DeVillier says before legislators hold a special session on tax reform, they would like to get more input from business leaders and state agencies to find out what’s keeping businesses from locating and growing in Louisiana

Cut 7 (11) “…don’t know.”

DeVillier says instead of holding a tax reform special session this year, he’s asked the House Ways and Means and Commerce committees to hold meetings over the next several months to get an idea on what changes need to be made

Cut 8 (11)  “…our state.”

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Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for the 2024 presidential election. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan…

Cut 9 (12) “…this process.”

Obama pledged to support her campaign against the Republican nominee, former President Donald Trump. This endorsement follows President Joe Biden’s recent withdrawal from the race and his endorsement of Harris, signaling strong party support for her candidacy.

Cut 10 (08) “…route to doing that.”

The backing from the Obamas is expected to significantly boost Harris’s campaign and solidify her position as the Democratic nominee t o run against Trump.

Lt. Billy Nungesser says if the election were held today Trump would win but Trump could get in his own way if he’s not careful.

Cut 11 (08) ” …trashing the opponent.”

Harris and Trump have yet to agree to debate each other, but it’s possible they could face off in September. Nungesser says Trump’s attacks against a female candidate will be watched closely…

Cut 12 (11) “…he takes it.”

A US Senate health committee is investigating Steward Health’s financial mismanagement, a committee co-chaired by Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (34) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Legislative leaders announce there will not be a special session on tax reform this year. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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The US Senate Health Committee has voted 16-4 to subpoena the CEO of Steward Health, Dr. Richard de la Torra. Committee Co-Chair Senator Bill Cassidy says they are investigating what led to Steward’s bankruptcy which is severely impacting care at hospitals across the country including West Monroe’s Glenwood Regional Medical Center.

Cut 3 (11) “…West Monroe.”

Due to limited resources at Glenwood, the state forced the facility to operate at one-third of its capacity, which has put a strain on hospitals across the river in Monroe. Cassidy says Steward’s financial mismanagement has had deadly consequences.

Cut 4 (06) “…to treat.”

What happened at Glenwood is not unique. Cassidy says at a Steward-owned hospital in Massachusetts, a woman died after giving birth…

Cut 5 (11)  “…Steward’s hospitals”

In June the committee asked de la Torre to testify, but he refused, didn’t offer another date, or have another Steward Health representative appear. Cassidy says this has forced the committee to subpoena him.

Glenwood is one of 31 Steward hospitals across the country.

A hearing is set for July 31^st for Steward’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings and American Healthcare Systems’ bid to be the new owner of Glenwood.

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Talk of a special session next month so that lawmakers can vote to hold a constitutional convention…is dead. Lapolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says legislative leaders announced today there are no plans to reconvene in Baton Rouge anytime soon.

Cut 6 (12) “…this fall.”

Alford says Senate leaders have shown no interest in holding a constitutional convention this year.

Governor Jeff Landry pushed for a constitutional convention this year. Landry says the convention could lead to positive tax reform that would give state lawmakers more flexibility during tough financial times. But Alford says making major changes to a state constitution is a huge endeavor.

Cut 7 (10) “…a constitution.”

The state will see a reduction of 600-million dollars in state revenue starting next fiscal year when a temporary state sales tax expires on July 1st, 2025. Alford says changes to the constitution could be needed to respond to this potential budget deficit, but legislative leaders are not ready to hold a constitutional convention…

Cut 8 (06)  “…could see that.”

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Phase 2 of the state’s SUN Bucks program begins this week. It’s a program that provides a one-time payment of 120-dollars to low-income families who can use the money to help pay for groceries when children are out of school for the summer months. DCFS Economic Stability Director Timothy Jenkins says EBT cards will be sent in waves over the next few weeks…

Cut 9 (07) “…students.”

Phase 2 recipients include children who have Medicaid insurance, or are part of the FITAP or Kinship Care Subsidy Program.

Cut 10 (07) “…Phase 2 benefits.”

75-thousand EBT cards will go out each week and children will receive a one-time payment of $120. Jenkins says the clock starts as soon as the SUN Bucks are issued…

Cut 11 (05) ” …expunged.”

Phase 2 of SUN Bucks will issue close to $38 million in benefits to more than 320 thousand children around the state.

Phase 3 application period for children not automatically certified in Phases 1 and 2 will open in late August.

The state department of education released LEAP scores from the last school year and the results show progress has stalled after a couple of years of improvement. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) …I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Some say the value of a solid educational foundation is priceless but certified early childhood educators in Louisiana are getting $15 an hour or less. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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State education officials say LEAP scores from the last school year show third through eighth graders improved their overall mastery rate by one percent in English. But Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley says math and science scores held steady after consecutive years of improvement

Cut 3 (11) “…those gains..”

Brumley says in an effort to increase outcomes, the state will make high-dosage tutoring more available…

Cut 4 (10) “…relatively quickly.”

Mastery rates declined in math for third and eighth grades. Brumley says falling math scores is an issue across the country. He says some of the methods used to improve English scores, they will now try in the area of math…

Cut 5 (10)  “…math as well.”

Brumley says he is pleased to see the overall mastery rate for students with disabilities improved in third through eighth graders for a third consecutive year.

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A survey of 700 childcare workers by the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children says the majority make around $15 an hour or less, about $28,000 annually. Executive Director Libbie Sonnier says retaining credentialed workers is hard because of the low pay. Still, it’s so important for building a solid foundation for children.

Cut 6 (12) “…to benefits.”

Sonnier refers to certified early childhood educators as brain architects because in the first four years of a child’s life 90-percent of their brain develops. She says they’ve received a grant to see how they can retrain these workers who are much more than babysitters…

Cut 7 (11) “…heart of quality.”

She says it’s a situation of pay now or pay later if Louisiana continues to lose these credentialed workers. Sonnier says childcare breakdowns cost Louisiana businesses $762 million annually and the state’s economy loses $1.3 billion annually. She says not only does it put children at a learning disadvantage…

Cut 8 (10)  “…our economy.”

The survey indicated public school pre-K teachers average $20 an hour in Louisiana. And according to the institute, a living household wage with two adults and two children is $23 an hour for each adult.

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Democrat Congressman Troy Carter announces new EPA funding for the City of New Orleans for $50-million through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants Program to support greenhouse gas reduction measures over the next five years.

Cut 9 (11) “…metropolitan area.”

Initiatives include constructing six miles of protected bikeways, a blue bike fleet expansion from 800 to 2,000 bikes, the planting of 75-hundred trees in underserved neighborhoods, an e-bike rebate program for low-to-moderate income residents, and subsidies for solar installations.

Cut 10 (07) “…safer environment.”

Carter says the initiative will significantly reduce the city’s carbon footprint, promote green job growth, and create a healthier environment.

Cut 11 (09) ” …cleaner community.”

This program was made possible because of the Inflation Reduction Act which Carter helped craft and voted for.

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The Saints held their first training camp practice today in Irvine, California, and running back Alvin Kamara participated, even though he’s looking for a new contract. There was speculation Kamara would not practice until he got a new deal, but the veteran says he did not want to get fined for missing practices

Cut 12 (05) “…be here.”

Kamara is hopeful he’ll sign a new contract before the regular season starts in September….

Cut  13 (05) “…I do.” 

Kamara turns 29-years-old tomorrow and this is his eighth season in the NFL. He’s under contract for next season, but the money is not guaranteed and he would like to retire as a Saint…

Cut  14 (06) “…means.”

Kamara rushed for a career 694 yards last season.

With Vice President Kamala Harris stepping into the Presidential race after President Biden drops out, polls are not showing a big shift quite yet. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The Boston Consulting Group has been hired to review Louisiana’s Department of Transportation to find ways to make it more efficient. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Tulane University has received a grant to continue a study to see if estrogen use can protect women’s brain health later in life. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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After President Joe Biden dropped out of the Presidential race and Vice President Kamala Harris stepped in, polls are not showing a big shift due to the substitution. John Couvillon of JMC Analytics and Polling says the most recent Trump-Harris polls…

Cut 4 (09) “…for Donald Trump.”

270 elector voters are needed to be elected president.

Couvillon says not much will change with Harris’ V-P selection either. Usually, V-P nominees don’t help but could certainly hurt the ticket…

Cut 5 (10) “…to debate.”

Couvillon says because of the candidate’s polarization not much is expected to change with the electorate either and the Electoral College is where you can expect the most change…

Cut 6 (07) “…Minnesota or New Hampshire.”

Couvillon says by the end of the week, we should begin seeing more accurate polling data reflecting a Trump-Harris Presidential race.

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The Boston Consulting Group is reviewing State Department Transportation to find ways to make it more efficient. This is after Governor Landry ordered DOTD to optimize operations. DOTD Secretary Joe Donahue says once the review is complete, he’ll prepare a plan for the governor by January 15^th.

Cut 7 (11) “…other states.”

The legislature contracted BCG to conduct the review.

Also, under the executive order issued by the governor, Donahue will create an initiative called “Rebuild Louisiana,” meant to find additional revenue for the department. Donahue says then he’ll meet with the Commissioner of Administration and Revenue Secretary.

Cut 8 (09)  “…responsibilities.”

Donahue says the plan he submits will detail ways to rehabilitate the department, how to address current issues, and future infrastructure reform

Cut 9 (11) “…the better.”

The review is a collaboration between private industry, the legislature, and the governor’s office.

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Kamala Harris is looking at former Louisiana Congressman and state representative Cedric Richmond as a potential running mate. Richmond is one of several Democrats she’s looking at to run against Donald Trump and JD Vance. UNO Political Science professor Ed Chervenak says Richmond would be an interesting choice…

Cut 10 (10) “…experience.”

Harris has requested vetting materials on the New Orleans native, but Chervenak says Richmond won’t do enough for the Democratic ticket and will not likely be the V-P nominee.

Cut 11 (06) “…election.”

Richmond previously worked in the Biden Administration and Chervenak says he will likely work in the Harris administration if elected.

Cut 12 (08) “…levers.”

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A Tulane University study is researching to see if estrogen can help women overcome cognitive issues later in life. Professor of Brain Science Dr. Jill Daniel says they are using rodents to test the theory and so far, it appears that short-term estrogen use in middle age leads to improved brain health long after use.

Cut 13 (08)  “…brain health.”

Estrogen use, also known as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is usually given to women to treat menopausal systems like hot flashes on a short-term basis.

Because women are almost twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s compared to men, and Daniel says they are investigating to see if the typical drop in estrogen due to menopause is a factor.

Cut 14 (11)  “…to men.”

After a study in early 2002 linking HRT to an increase in breast cancer the use of HRT dropped dramatically. But Daniel says since the initial study there’s been more thorough research that indicates otherwise, depending on a woman’s overall health.

Cut 15 (08)  “…find out.”

Daniel has been awarded a $2.69 million grant from the National Institute on Aging of the National Institutes of Health to continue the study.

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The Saints begin training camp today, and first order of business will be implementing first-year Offensive Coordinator Klint Kubiak’s new scheme. The former 49ers assistant coach helped lead one of the most effective motion-heavy offenses in the NFL last season and is expected to bring big changes to the black and gold offense. Saints GM Mickey Loomis says he’s been impressed with Kubiak…

Cut 16 (16) “…game of football.” 

Running back Alvin Kamara reported for camp and is expected to make his return to the practice field after leaving during the final practice of mandatory minicamp due to contract disputes. The 28-year-old still hasn’t gotten the extension he’s hoping for, but Head coach Dennis Allen says he’s looking forward to getting to work…

Cut 17 (16) “…been impressed.”

The Saints made a splash signing defensive end Chase Young to shore up the team’s questionable pass rush in free agency this year, but the 2020 second-overall pick is still sidelined with a neck injury. Loomis says they’re careful not to rush Young back on the field, but his determination to get back has been commendable…

Cut 18 (19)  “…where he’s at.”

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Louisiana Tech coach Sonny Cumbie spoke at Conference USA Kickoff yesterday. Cumbie’s Bulldogs finished with a disappointing 3-and-9 record in his third-straight season in Ruston with 4 of those losses by just one score. Cumbie says his team’s ready to change the narrative…

Cut 19 (20) “…work every day”

The Bulldogs will be led by redshirt junior quarterback Jack Turner. Turner made a lasting impression in his playing time last year when starter Hank Bachmeier was sidelined 3 games with a shoulder injury. Turner says he learned a lot from backing up the Boise St. transfer, but with Bachmeier leaving for Wake Forest, he’s ready to take the reigns…

Cut 20 (20) “…play the game.”

House Speaker Mike Johnson of Benton announces a Bipartisan Task Force will investigate the assassination attempt of Donald Trump. Sean Richardson has the story.

Cut 1 (33) …I’m Sean Richardson.”

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A PAR survey says nearly one in five Louisianans receive food stamps. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Director Kimberly Cheatle has resigned from the Secret Service after Speaker Mike Johnson continually called for her to step down after the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

Cut 3 (11) “…Republicans and Democrats.”

Johnson and Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced a bipartisan House Task Force consisting of seven Republicans and 6 Democrats to investigate the assassination attempt and get answers to the American public.

Cut 4 (11) “…ever happening again.”

The task force will be empowered with all investigative authority of the House of Representatives including subpoena authority.

Cut 5 (07)  “…as an agency.”

The Task Force will make recommendations for reform to the relevant government agencies and recommend any necessary legislation to implement them.

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A Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana survey indicates nearly one in five Louisianans receive food stamps also known as SNAP. Of those recipients about 45 percent are children. Invest in Louisiana executive director Jan Moller says it shouldn’t be a surprise but should be disturbing.

Cut 6 (12) “…month to month.”

Based on household size and monthly income, the average SNAP benefit amount per household is $373 a month since July 2023.

Moller says even though nearly half of the households in Louisiana have trouble making ends meet, they don’t all necessarily qualify for assistance. He says SNAP, which stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is not meant to be a catchall, its purpose is to provide supplemental aid to help with food insecurity.

Cut 7 (11) “…sell food.”

During the legislative session when Governor Landry wanted to cut the Summer EBT program for school-aged children to receive meals when they were out of school, it was met with bipartisan resistance. Moller says the state only pays $3-million in administrative costs for the federally funded program.

Cut 8 (12)  “…go hungry.”

The decision was overturned and Louisiana did participate in the Summer EBT program.

PAR says compared to other southern states, Louisiana had the most SNAP recipients relative to total population last year.

Parishes with the highest number of SNAP recipients, in May of 2024 are East Baton Rouge, Orleans, Jefferson, Caddo, and Lafayette.

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Jimmy Genovese (Gen-o-vez) was introduced today as the 21st president of Northwestern State. Genovese was the lone finalist for the job to replace Doctor Marcus Jones. Genovese left the Supreme Court as a judge to lead his alma mater and he’s amazed at the support he’s received

Cut 9 (08) “…sleeping at night.”

Genovese has been an attorney or a judge during his adult life, but he believes he has the experience to run a university. The 74-year-old plans to sell Northwestern State as a great place to continue their education…

Cut 10 (10) “…on Broadway.”

Genovese says he left the as a Louisiana Supreme Court Judge to help out his alma mater, which has seen a reported 22-percent drop in enrollment over the past four years…

Cut 11 (13) ” …about that.”

Genovese says he plans to put more money towards marketing the university, faculty salaries and he would like to see Northwestern’s athletic teams be more competitive.  Northwestern State

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Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned today, one day after saying the agency failed in protecting former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally. Louisiana U-S Senator Bill Cassidy says it’s outrageous the public spotted the shooter before the Secret Service acted….

Cut 12 (10) “…did nothing.”

Cheatle testified in front of the House Oversight and Accountability Committee yesterday told members she was the right person to lead the Secret Service despite the assassination attempt. Cassidy is glad Cheatle changed her mind and decided to step down…

Cut  13 (12) “…resignation.” 

An LSU defensive back is facing video voyeurism charges. Jeff Palermo has the details…

Cut 1 (31) …I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The majority of delegates from the Louisiana Democratic Party have endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to be the party’s nominee for President. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Two 18-year-olds were killed in a head-on crash in Lafourche Parish involving an underage immigrant driver, who authorities say was impaired. State Police Trooper Ross Brennan says 18-year-old Axel Flores-Cordova of Honduras slammed head-on into a vehicle on Highway 3090 near the Fourchon area

Cut 3 (13) “…hospital.”

Brennan did not have any information on whether Flores-Cordova is in the United States legally. He has been booked into the Lafourche Parish detention center on multiple charges…

Cut 4 (10) “…driver’s license.”

The crash happened shortly after 1 AM and it claimed the lives of 18-year-old Rylan Oncale of Raceland and 18-year-old Taliyah Crochet of Houma. Brennan says Flores-Cordova’s blood alcohol concentration was nearly seven times over the underage legal limit

Cut 5 (12)  “…here.”

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Louisiana’s delegation to the Democratic National Convention has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic Presidential nominee. State Democratic Party chairman Randal Gaines says a vote was taken virtually on Sunday night.

New Orleans Representative Mandie Landry says Biden and his family have sacrificed so much in the last few years and she’s glad he was the one to choose to step down as the party’s nominee.

Cut 6 (08) “…our country.”

PSC Commissioner Davante Lewis says Biden looked at the campaign to see if he could deliver for the American people and concluded it was in the best interest to step aside.

Cut 7 (09) “…Democratic Presidency.”

Both also fully support Vice President Kamala Harris to be the Democratic nominee. Landry said Harris is competent and she was very excited to see her become Vice President and points out that she was also chosen by voters on the Biden-Harris ticket to take over the role of President should something happen.

Cut 8 (10)  “…usual politicians.”

Landry says Harris was her first choice for President in 2019.

Lewis says Harris has the experience and proper temperament to unite the party and is a viable candidate against former President Donald Trump. He says the Trump campaign message against Biden’s age and ability to carry out the job no longer works to the GOP’s advantage with Biden out of the race.

Cut 9 (10) “…trying to do.”

Democratic National Convention will be held in Chicago August 19-22. The next Presidential debate is scheduled for September 10^th.

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President Joe Biden’s decision to drop out of the President’s race, doesn’t change Republican Governor Jeff Landry’s mind on who will be the next president. Landry remains confident it will be GOP nominee Donald Trump. Landry told the Moon Griffon Show it doesn’t matter who the Democrats nominate…

Cut 10 (12) “…open border”

Landry was a guest on the Moon Griffon show and said Mr. Biden’s policies over the last four years have failed America and he says whoever ends up as the Democratic nominee never did anything about the rising inflation or the increase of illegal immigrants across the southern border

Cut 11 (12) ” …failures”

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Southland Industrial Coating is investing $13-million dollars to construct a new fireproofing facility in the  St Landry Parish town of Washington.  Southland Industrial Coatings galvanizes, metalizes, sandblasts, paints, and fireproofs steel poles used in the utility, transportation, and renewable energy industries. Chief Strategy Officer Randy Ross…

Cut 12 (11) “…last 10 years.”

The project is expected to break ground in the coming weeks adding to the continued expansion of Southland to the Louisiana economy…

Cut  13 (07) “…our third facility.” 

Ross says the project will bring 120 new direct jobs to the Acadian Region, with more than $53,000 in salaries and 178 indirect new jobs.

Cut  14 (07) “…as well.”

LED offered a $2.5 million performance-based, forgivable loan to win the project and Southland is expected to participate in the state’s Industrial Tax Exemption and Quality Jobs program.

Southland expects construction to be completed by spring 2025.

Louisiana’s Revenue Secretary Richard Nelson wants the Legislature to hold another special session next month to address the “fiscal cliff” the state is facing. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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The U-S House Oversight Committee will begin its investigation today into the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. Jeanne Burns has more.

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Jeanne Burns.” 

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President Joe Biden has made the decision not to seek re-election. Jeff Palermo reports one local political analyst believes Kamala Harris will be the Democratic presidential nominee…

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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State lawmakers have had a busy year but Louisiana Revenue Secretary Richard Nelson hopes the Legislature will hold another special session next month. He wants to make some fundamental reforms to address a “fiscal cliff” as a result of a 600-million dollar loss in revenue when a temporary state sales tax expires next July.

Cut 4 (10) “…gonna be.”

Nelson wants to lower the state income tax while eliminating some exemptions to the state’s sales tax code. The top income tax rate is currently four and a quarter percent and he wants to bring it down to three percent to make Louisiana more competitive with other states.

Cut 5 (12) “…toward this.”

Nelson says the state has had recurring budget surpluses year after year and some of that money could be used to reduce the income tax.

Louisiana has the highest sales tax rate in the country according to Nelson and he blames the complicated tax code.

Cut 6 (11) “…really uncompetitive.”

Nelson says addressing the problems with the tax code is something the state could do to keep people from leaving and attract new people and businesses to Louisiana.

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The U-S House Oversight Committee will hold a hearing today into the assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump. New Iberia Senator Blake Miguez, who is also a competitive marksman, says there are many unanswered questions that the Secret Service must answer. From the weapon type used to the competence level of the protective detail assigned to Trump and…

Cut 7 (09) “…more protected.”

The Secret Service chief said the agency provided additional security enhancements for Trump’s security detail and implemented changes after the shooting to ensure continued protection for the rest of the campaign. Miguez says there were certainly more Secret Service agents around the former president at the Republican National Convention

Cut 8 (09) “…in Pennsylvania.”

Louisiana Congressman Higgins is on this committee and promises a thorough investigation. Miguez says the nation is owed answers…

Cut 9 (09)  “…those questions.”

The U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle has agreed to testify at a public hearing.

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President Joe Biden announced on Sunday he will not seek a second term and has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democrats’ nominee for President. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says the major shakeup in the President’s race should benefit Democrats…

Cut 10 (14) “…swing voters.”

Several Democratic governors have also been reported as potential replacements for Biden on top of the Democratic presidential ticket, including California’s Gavin Newsome, Illinois’ J.B. Prtizker, Michigan’s Gretchen Whitmer, Colorado’s Jared Polis and Pennsyvlania’s Josh Shapiro. But Hogan doesn’t see the delegates at the Democratic National Convention going against Biden’s wishes…

Cut 11 (11) “…the nomination.”

House Speaker Mike Johnson of Benton says the Democratic Party has invalidated the votes of millions of Americans by forcing their nominee off the ballot for President. Johnson told ABC News yesterday that switching to a new candidate at this stage could violate state-level election laws. Hogan doubts that legal strategy will work because the primary elections are not the final say on who the nominee is…

Cut 12 (10) “…formalized.”

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A federal judge says the Ten Commandments should not be displayed in any public classroom until at least November 15th pending a ruling on whether the new law is unconstitutional. Loyola Law Professor Dane Ciolino believes in the end the plaintiffs will prevail…

Cut 13 (10)  “…violated the First Amendment.”

U-S District Court Judge John deGravelles (Duh-gravel) is expected to rule on whether displaying biblical text in every public school classroom violates the U-S Constitution before mid-November. Ciolino says he’s not surprised by deGravelles’ ruling.

Cut 14 (12)  “…can be held”

Attorney General spokesperson Lester Duhe says the law is not “paused,” “blocked,” or “halted.” And Louisiana schools remain subject to the law and its January 2025 compliance deadline. Ciolino says…

Cut 15 (04)  “…can be held.”

Judge deGravelles set a hearing date for September 30^th to give himself time to issue a ruling by mid-November.

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LSU football has been picked to finish fifth in the 16-team Southeastern Conference based on a poll of media members who attended media days. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne says that sounds about right…

Cut 16 (14) “..preseason forecast.” 

LSU won ten games last year with a Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback. Not only did Daniels throw for 38 hundred yards, but he also rushed for eleven hundred yards. Coach Brian Kelly on how the Tigers plan to replace those rushing yards…

Cut 17 (15) “…in the country.”

Offensive tackle Will Campbell and linebacker Harold Perkins were named first-team selections. Horne believes one other player is deserving of preseason first-team honors…

Cut 18 (18)  “..first team.”

A former art teacher at Golden Meadow Middle School in Lafourche Parish receives a 40-year prison sentence for sexually abusing a student. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) …I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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35-year-old Quentin Anderson is the youngest candidate running for the 6^th Congressional District. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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A former art teacher at Golden Meadow Middle School in Lafourche Parish has been sentenced to 40-years in prison for sexually abusing one of his  former students in 2009. Prosecutor Jason Chatagnier (shot-en-ya_ says during the trial they presented evidence on how Ralph Cheramie (cher-a-me) Junior would groom his victims…

Cut 3 (08) “…in the classroom.”

Cheramie was convicted on sexual battery, molestation and indecent behavior charges. Chatagnier says the victim initially reported the incident to school administrators, but an internal investigation yielded little action. He says the victim now as an adult came forward again, reporting the incident to law enforcement, which led to a conviction…

Cut 4 (10) “…and her partner.”

Chatagnier says Cheramie’s sentences are to be served concurrently…

Cut 5 (11)  “…ever again.”

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Political newcomer, Quentin Anderson from Baton Rouge has entered the race to run for the 6^th Congressional District and says he wants to bring integrity and honor back to public service.  As the son and grandson of preachers and military veterans, Anderson says he was taught the value of public service.

Cut 6 (12) “…my community.”

He also runs a non-profit professional called the Justice Alliance and has done consulting for Together Baton Rouge and Together Louisiana. Anderson says his background is figuring out ways to talk about progressive solutions with individuals who aren’t progressive.

The 35-year-old says he wants to focus on crime, particularly youth violent crime. Anderson says he wants to invest in youth jobs programs and ways to keep them busy.

Cut 7 (06) “…as well.”

He says addressing crime is much deeper than policing, it’s about providing opportunity instead of a life of corruption.

And Anderson says he wants to address infrastructure and revitalization.

Cut 8 (12)  “…steps backward.”

The small business owner, who received his undergraduate at Louisiana Tech and a law degree from LSU has qualified as a Democrat, running against state Senator Cleo Fields and former legislator Elbert Guillory.

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There’s a good chances for more scattered thunderstorms through the weekend as this wet weather pattern plans to stick around into next week. National Weather Service Meteorologist Marti Calhoun…

Cut 9 (10) “…few days.”

Calhoun says an upper level trough will remain in place for several days, which will bring the southern half of the state daily showers and thunderstorms…

Cut 10 (10) “…rain weather.”

At the moment there are no flash flood warnings or watches posted. Calhoun says several weeks of relatively dry weather leading up this rainfall allows the ground and rivers to soak up a lot of moisture…

Cut 11 (07) ” …flash flooding”

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A federal grand jury has indicted New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s former bodyguard, Jeffrey Vappie, on seven counts of wire fraud and one count of false statement. The U-S Attorney’s office says Vappie lied to cover up a romantic relationship with Cantrell and political analyst Clancy Dubos says the indictment implicates the major who is described as “public official one”….

Cut 12 (12) “…their phones.”

The indictment says there were meals and alcohol shared between the two during at least 14 domestic and international travels from 2021 to March of this year. He says those trips cost taxpayers more than 47-thousand dollars.

So why is Cantrell not facing an indictment? Dubos says federal prosecutors take their time before indicting a public official

Cut  13 (14) “…politician.” 

Dubos says a potential Cantrell indictment could also be a much broader investigation and it will take more time…

Cut  14 (09) “…Vappie case.”

Vappie retired from the New Orleans Police Department earlier this year.

Congresswoman Julia Letlow is running for a third term to represent the 5^th District that now stretches as far south to the Baton Rouge area to North Louisiana.

Cut 1 (30) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The LSU football program has received a commitment from the nation’s number one cornerback. Jeff Palermo has the details…

Cut 2 (26)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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Congresswoman Julia Letlow officially qualified to run for re-election this morning. The Republican’s 5^th Congressional District was altered when the lines for District 6 were redrawn. Letlow says she’s looking forward to meeting and listening to the new individuals she could potentially represent in her third term.

Cut 3 (10) “…for results.”

In addition to North Louisiana the 5th District also stretches to the Baton Rouge area.

Even though Congressman Garett Graves has chosen not to seek re-election, Letlow says he’s been a gracious friend and now that portions of District 5 will include portions of the one he currently represents, she says he’s told her he will continue to act as a mentor.

Cut 4 (08) “…with him.”

Among her proudest accomplishments in her last term, Letlow says is sponsoring the Parents Bill of Rights. While it cleared the House, the bill did not make it through the Senate this Congress, but she’s hopeful it will in the next one.

Earlier this week Letlow was in Milwaukee at the Republican National Convention. The Monroe native acknowledges that since the assassination attempt on former President Trump’s life Saturday, there seems to be a concerted effort to promote unity and polite dialogue among the political parties.

Cut 5 (10)  “…moving forward”

Letlow is the first female Republican in Louisiana to be elected to Congress.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation (DOTD) will hold a public meeting today, to discuss the a proposed I-20 Widening/Overlay Project in West Monroe. DOTD spokesperson Erin Buchanan…

Cut 6 (05) “…opinions about it.”

The project aims to add an additional travel lane in both directions from west of Well Road to west of the LA 34 interchange, incorporating median barriers and shoulders. Buchanan says additionally, a noise barrier will be installed near the Shadow Creek Apartments and Blanchard Street.

Cut 7 (10) “…questions about”

The open house meeting, scheduled from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the West Monroe Convention Center, will provide information about the project and gather public feedback. DOTD Representatives and the consulting team will be available to address questions and discuss the project’s impact. Buchanan says a date on when construction will begin has not been set..

Cut 8 (09)  “…Federal Highway Administration.”

Oral and written comments are welcomed during the meeting

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GOP presidential candidate Donald Trump will deliver his first public speech tonight since Saturday’s attempted assassination. He’ll close out an emotional Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says he’s eager to hear what the former former president has to say…

Cut 9 (11) “…right now.”

Graves says a single gunman nearly ending Trump’s life changed the entire tenor of the Republican National Convention…

Cut 10 (12) “…a 20-year-old.”

Graves says if Saturday’s assassination attempt did not happen, you would see Trump going after President Joe Biden during his keynote speech tonight, but now the former president will deliver a different message…

Cut 11 (12) ” …would have seen”

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A 15-year-old accidentally shot at a home in St. Tammany Parish has died. St. Tammany Parish sheriff’s Office Lt Suzanne Carboni says the teenager was sitting in the living room of the home in the Goodbee area

Cut 12 (12) “…accidentally fired.”

Carboni says the shooting took place on Tuesday and she died last night from a single gunshot wound. She says the gun was fired by a relative who was handling a firearm in another room…

Cut  13 (12) “…passed away.” 

The incident is under investigation and no other information is available.

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In Hammond a 3-year-old toddler died from an accidental gunshot wound to the face. Deputies say the incident took place at a residence where the child found an unsecured firearm. The toddler accidentally discharged the weapon, resulting in a fatal injury. Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Gerald Sticker

Cut  14 (07) “…pray for them.”

Sticker says firearms should be shored in a location that is not easily accessible to children and they should also be put in lock boxes and or gun safes. He says that was not the case in this situation…

Cut 15 (13) “…pulled it out.”

A family member came to the child’s aid immediately, but efforts to keep the child alive were unsuccessful.

Qualifying begins today for the November Congressional races. Sean Richardson reports the newly drawn sixth district is an open seat.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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U.S. Speaker Mike Johnson promises accountability for the perceived security lapses that led to the assassination attempt of former President Trump Saturday.

Cut 2 (25)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Underage gambling charges against former LSU receiver Kayshon Boutte have been dropped. The East Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney’s office says he’s completed his gambling awareness program and agreed to a self-ban. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (28) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Suspended LSU running back Trey Holly was scheduled to appear in court today related to a Union Parish shooting that happened in February. Because more evidence is expected to be provided to attorneys working on the case. Holly’s lawyer Mike Small says he along with the prosecution filed a joint motion for a September 18^th continuance. Small says he remains convinced of Holly’s innocence.

Cut 4 (13) “…that possible.”

LSU football coach Brian Kelly has expressed confidence Holly’s legal troubles could be resolved by the start of preseason camp, but unless the felony charge gets dropped that might not be the case. Small says he and his client are not discouraged by the mid-September continuance.

Cut 5 (08) “…disposed of.”

Holly has pleaded not guilty to a charge of illegal use of a weapon or dangerous instrumentality. Small says as of now the charges are still pending.

Cut 6 (08) “…that stage.”

Holly was indefinitely suspended from the Tigers after he was arrested in connection with a shooting on February 9th in Union Parish that injured two people. A grand jury dropped an attempted second-degree murder charge against Holly in April.

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The three-day qualifying period begins today for the November 5^th presidential election. There is an open congressional seat and Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields looks like the front-runner to win the newly drawn sixth district that gives a minority a favorable chance to win. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat…

Cut 7 (10) “…overwhelming favorite.”

Fields’ two main opponents appear to be former state lawmaker Elbert Guillory of Opelousas who is a Republican, and political newcomer and Democrat Quintin Anderson of Baton Rouge. Pinsonat says all three candidates are black.

Cut 8 (10) “…win elections.”

There’s also an open seat on the five-person Public Service Commission.  Three Republicans have expressed interest in replacing the outgoing Craig Greene, Lafayette Senator Jean-Paul Coussan and two former lawmakers in the Baton Rouge area Barry Ivey and Scott McKnight.

Cut 9 (08)  “…political well-known.”

There have been no announced Democrats for the open 2nd District PSC seat.

Candidates for federal offices and the PSC can register from 8 am to 4:30 pm starting today until Friday at the State Archives building in Baton Rouge.

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Within hours after the assassination attempt on former President Trump’s life Saturday, U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson announced that there would be a Congressional investigation into the matter.

Cut 10 (12) “…that investigation.”

Johnson says the American people deserve and demand answers on how 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks was able to fire an AR-style rifle within 150 yards of Trump.

Cut 11 (07) “…coming days.”

The Benton Republican says it appears there were serious security gaps, but he doesn’t want to pre-judge the Secret Service before an investigation is completed. Johnson promised accountability for the incident.

Cut 12 (13) “…agree with.”

Johnson addressed delegates Tuesday night at the Republican National Convention and told Louisiana Radio Network he changed the theme of his speech to “Make American Safe Again,” in the wake of Saturday’s tragic events in Butler, Pennsylvania.

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Underage gambling and fraud charges against former LSU receiver Kayshon Boutte have been dropped. He was arrested in January for allegedly creating a fictitious name to place bets on sporting events when he was under 21. The East Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney’s office says Boutte completed a gambling awareness program and executed a self-ban. Legal Analyst Tim Meche says it’s a classic case of prosecutorial discretion because no one was harmed…

Cut 13 (12)  “…the matter.”

Meche believes the investigation of Boutte’s case will be a lesson learned for LSU and the NCAA, as well as how they need to monitor college athletes going forward regarding sports wagering.

Cut 14 (09)  “…said and done.”

In a press release from the EBR DA’s office announcing the charges were dropped it says Boutte did not bet against himself or his team. Meche says that’s interesting to note…

Cut 15 (10)  “…they’re making it.”

The legal gambling age in Louisiana is 21.

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How much of a step back will LSU’s offense take with the Tigers having to replace last season’s offensive coordinator, a Heisman Trophy winning quarterback, and two first round picks at wide receiver. Starting tight end Mason Taylor is back and he’s not expecting  a drop off with Garrett Nussmeier at quarterback…

Cut 16 (18) “…this year.” 

With LSU’s top two receivers from last year now in the NFL, Taylor recognizes the opportunity for the tight ends to get more involved…

Cut 17 (18) “…this offense.”

LSU linebacker Harold Perkins will move back to inside linebacker this season. Perkins says he’s good with the move…

Cut 18 (14)  “…a play.”

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Grambling State quarterback Myles Crawley has been named the SWAC preseason player of the year. Crawley threw for 23-hundred yards and 16 touchdowns last season. Crawley says the preseason honor will drive him to be better…

Cut 19 (07) “…my team.” 

Grambling is picked to finish third in the SWAC Western Division, while Southern is picked to finish fourth. First-year coach Terrence Graves on what we can expect from the Jaguars this season…

Cut 20 (07) “…physical.”