Despite a statewide burn ban being in effect, firefighters have had to battle over 150 wildfires across the state in the past 14 days. Fires that have burned over 1800 acres of land. State Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says an Independence man has been arrested for a wildfire in Mt. Herman, who now is charged with violating a state burn ban, criminal negligence and more…:

CUT 10  (12)         “…that match.”

He says never leave your grill unattended and do NOT engage in any open trash or brush burning until further notice.

The First Gentleman of the city of New Orleans has passed away. Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s office released a statement announcing the Mayor’s husband Jason Cantrell died, but did not detail the circumstances; asking instead for privacy for the mayor and her family. Mr. Cantrell spent many years as a prosecutor in Orleans Parish.

An Ascension Parish government employee has been terminated and arrested after allegedly…peeing in the town of Donaldsonville’s water supply back in March. 57-year-old Michael Mastin was reportedly caught in the act on camera. Ascension Parish officials say the water was thoroughly tested to assure its safety. He’s been charged with Contaminating Water Supplies.

Louisiana is projected to have a $143.3 million surplus in the 2024-25 fiscal year, then shortfalls of more than $400 million the next two, based on a fiscal snapshot presented to the Legislature’s Joint Budget Committee on Friday.

Inflation is causing a logjam of unwanted dogs and cats at animal shelters across the state. Louisiana Human Society director Jeff Dorson says lawmakers could have helped with some of the recent surplus funds, but didn’t. Dorson says the responsibility for these animals shouldn’t rest solely on taxpayers…:

CUT 05  (11)         “…do better.”