Kenner Police seize a scam website that mimicked the Geaux Pass website. Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley says people, including some of his officers, got a text message with an image demanding the payment of a $3.75 toll. 

Cut 13 (12)  “…out of Russia.”

Chief Conley says the scammers were using that small amount to gain access to other valuable information.

Louisiana Tech says this year’s freshman class is the largest in the school’s 130-year history. There are more than 12-thousand students enrolled in the 2024 Fall Quarter and 24-hundred are freshman.

Cut 10 (06) “…competitive advantage.”

University President Jim Henderson says Louisiana Tech’s investment in modern facilities, leading-edge research, and personalized student service also contributes to its rising enrollment.

The Louisiana Board of Regents is asked to develop plans to accommodate a potential 250-million-dollar systemwide budget cut for the 2025-26 fiscal year. This, as a point-four-five-percent sales tax would be scheduled to sunset then. Higher Education Commissioner Kim Hunter Reed says such a budget cut would be devastating.

Cut 7 (14) “…would be applied.”

Hunter Reed says those cuts would have a disastrous ripple effect.

Lafayette Congressman Clay Higgins is coming under fire for a post on X he made about Haitians. After a Haitian nonprofit sued Former President Donald Trump and running mate J.D. Vance over their claims of them eating pets, Higgins repeated that claim in his post, telling them they’d better get out of the country on January 20th. Higgins has deleted the post.

The sunsetting of a .45-percent state sales tax has Louisiana’s public colleges and universities preparing for a big reduction in state funding. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Louisiana Tech’s enrollment for this fall quarter is the largest in school history. Don Molino has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Don Molino.”

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The Kenner Police Department seizes a foreign website that spoofed the Geaux Pass website. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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As Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is working on his Social Security Reform bill with a Democratic colleague from Virginia, Senator Bill Cassidy is working on the Senate’s version. Like Graves’ bill, Cassidy’s Senate bill would repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision and the Government Pension Offset

Cut 4 (08) “…to be corrected.”

The Windfall Elimination Provision reduces the earned Social Security benefits of an individual who also receives a public pension from a job not covered by Social Security while the Government Pension Offset reduces by two-thirds the benefit received by surviving spouses who also collect a government pension. Cassidy says one way or the other, those two provisions will be gone one day.

Cut 5 (10) “…pay for it.”

Cassidy says those who spend only a portion of their work career in the public sector are paying too high a penalty for doing so.

Cut 6 (11) …be getting cut.”

This is not a controversial bill; the vast majority of House members from both parties have signed a discharge petition to force a vote by the full house. Cassidy says the bill likely will not get onto President Biden’s desk until after the November election.

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The Louisiana Board of Regents is asked to develop plans to accommodate a potential 250-million-dollar systemwide budget cut for the 2025-26 fiscal year. This, as a point-45-percent sales tax would be scheduled to sunset then. Higher Education Commissioner Kim Hunter Reed says such a budget cut would be devastating.

Cut 7 (14) “…would be applied.”

And those cuts would, in turn, have additional negative impacts.

Cut 8 (07) “…would be untouched.”

Hunter Reed says higher education is a solution to the state’s economy, so everything needs to be done to fully support it.

Cut 9 (13)  “…in our communities.”

The Board of Regents will be presenting a worst-case scenario budget on February 28th.

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Louisiana Tech says this year’s freshman class is the largest in the school’s 130-year history. There are more than 12-thousand students enrolled in the 2024 Fall Quarter and 24-hundred are freshman. University President Jim Henderson on why students are choosing La Tech…

Cut 10 (06) “…competitive advantage.”

Henderson says Louisiana Tech’s faculty has shown they can develop a student to their full potential and prepare team to thrive in a future of boundless opportunity….

Cut 11 (11) “…an employer.”

Total enrollment for the quarter is 12,039, a nearly four percent increase over 2023 and it’s the school’s highest enrollment since 2018. Henderson says a student at Tech has more than 135 degree programs to choose from., which is one of many reasons why a student wants to be a Bulldog..

Cut 12 (08) “…the city.”

Henderson says Louisiana Tech’s investment in modern facilities, leading-edge research, and personalized student service also contributes to its rising enrollment.

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Kenner Police take down a scam website that mimicked the Geaux Pass website. Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley says people, including some of his officers, were alerted to the website after getting a text message from an unknown number with an image demanding the payment of a $3.75 toll.

Cut 13 (12)  “…out of Russia.”

Chief Conley says the scammers were using that small amount to gain access to other valuable information.

Cut 14 (09) “…lick at it.”

Conley especially singled out Detective Brad Ricke (“Ricky”) for his diligent work that ultimately culminated with the department seizing the website.

Cut 15 (11) “…of that nature.”

Conley says people need to know that no government agency will ever ask for money through any electronic means. While you can certainly pay online, all payment requests are done through the U.S. Mail.

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Saints Coach Dennis Allen says starting Pro Bowl center Erik McCoy is headed to injured reserve because of a groin injury that requires surgery. It’s been reported McCoy will miss six to eight weeks. Allen is not providing a timetable, but in the meantime, the team needs to keep pushing forward…

Cut 16 (15)   “…with it”

McCoy has been called the glue of the offensive line and someone who is relied on to communicate blocking schemes at the line of scrimmage. Veteran Lucas Patrick is expected to replace McCoy at center. Allen says McCoy will be missed, but they have others who can step up…

Cut 17 (17) “…absence .”

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The injury to veteran defensive tackle Jacobian Guillory has given freshman Ahmad Breaux a chance to start on LSU’s defensive line. Breaux was a defensive end for the Ruston Bearcats last season, a state champion football team. With LSU short on defensive tackles, Breaux was asked to beef up so they can move him to the interior…

Cut 18 (18)  “…for months.”

Breaux says he’s added nearly 35 pounds since arriving in Baton Rouge and he’s up to 285 pounds. But Breaux says thanks to LSU defensive line coach Bo Davis, he plays much bigger than his listed weight…

Cut 19 (18) “….play like one.”  

LSU hosts South Alabama on Saturday

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The Ragin Cajuns will be at Wake Forest on Saturday. U-L Lafayette is coming off a loss to Tulane, where they gave up 272 rushing yards. Cajuns Coach Michael Desormeaux expects the Demon Deacons to run the football…

Cut 20 (18) “…help em too” 

At least for the time being, the scorching hot days in Louisiana are coming to an end, as a cold front is barreling towards Louisiana. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says as a result, fans attending Saturday’s LSU football game should not have brutally hot temperatures to contend with.

Cut 8 (11) “…be about 82.”

And there’s virtually no chance of rain.

A new pilot program begins next Tuesday, in which library card holders can obtain a free one-day pass to any of Louisiana’s state parks or historic sites.

Cut 3 (08) “…be return users.”

State Librarian Meg Placke (PLACK-ee) says when they obtain a park pass at the library branch, they can also check out a backpack for the occasion, containing all the essentials needed when visiting a state park.

A DOTD worker assisting a disabled vehicle was struck and killed by a driver who veered off the road on I-610 in New Orleans.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

Entergy Louisiana is sending 130 lineworkers and support personnel to assist Georgia Power in response to the potential impacts from Hurricane Helene. Dylan Granger is leading a convoy of bucket trucks to the Peach State.

Cut 15 (07) “…the lights on.”

An Arabi man is arrested after he allegedly struck and killed a DOTD worker on I-610 West in New Orleans. Investigators say 23-year-old Eric Anthony Jr. was assisting a disabled vehicle yesterday when 26-year-old Oscar Perez-Moran veered onto the shoulder, hitting Anthony and two other vehicles. Trooper Jacob Pucheu (PEE-shoo) says by law, in the event of any crash involving serious injury or death, blood or breath tests are automatically taken…

Cut 10 (08) “…to come back.”

Investigators are still determining why Perez-Moran’s vehicle left the road.

At least for the time being, the scorching hot days in Louisiana are coming to an end.

Cut 6 (09) “…far this season.”

LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says the cold front that’s barreling towards Louisiana is also pushing Hurricane Helene away from the state and towards Florida.

Police in Natchitoches are investigating the deadly shooting of a 17-year-old boy. Matthew Daniels was shot on July Street; he was taken to a hospital, where he died. Sergeant John Greely says at this point, it’s unclear what led to the shooting.

Cut 13 (07) “…that we have.” 

Greely says the location of where this shooting happened is one that officers have been called to several times.

A new pilot program is set to begin in which library card holders can obtain a free one-day pass to any of Louisiana’s state parks.

Cut 5 (09) “…rarin’ to go.”

State Librarian Meg Placke (PLACK-ee) says 18 out of the 68 library systems are participating in the pilot program, along with the state library in Baton Rouge, with the goal of eventually expanding this statewide. Cardholders can obtain a free one-day park pass once every six months.

At least for the time being, the scorching hot days in Louisiana are coming to an end. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says a cold front is barreling towards Louisiana, and it’s also pushing Hurricane Helene away from the state and towards Florida.

Cut 7 (09) “…to the bayou.”

Keim says thanks to this cold front, fans attending Saturday’s LSU game should not have brutally hot temperatures to contend with, unlike last weekend.

A teenage boy is shot and killed in Natchitoches (NACK-uh-tish). Police Sergeant John Greely says officers were called to July Street on reports of gunshots in the area. But the victim, 17-year-old Matthew Daniels wasn’t there.

Cut 12 (08) “…Regional Medical Center.”

Sergeant Greely says at this point, it’s unclear what led to the shooting.

A DOTD worker assisting a disabled vehicle was struck and killed by a driver who veered off the road on I-610 in New Orleans.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

Entergy Louisiana is sending 130 lineworkers and support personnel to assist Georgia Power in response to the potential impacts from Hurricane Helene. Entergy Louisiana Lineworker Dylan Granger says those heading there are from across the state, including Lake Charles, Monroe and New Orleans…

Cut 16 (03)  “…what we do.”

Those living in eight parishes most affected by Hurricane Francine can start applying for DSNAP benefits today. Sammy Guillory with DCFS says there are certain requirements.

Cut 8 (13) “…based on that.”

Today through Friday, registration goes by the first letter of the applicant’s last name.

The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day by hosting events at four locations across the state Saturday. Secretary Madison Sheahan says the event fosters community involvement in conservation efforts.

Cut 12 (08) “…able to do that.”

Attendees can participate in hands-on activities like archery, fishing, and target shooting.For more information, visit the department’s website.

Lafayette is launching an initiative to strengthen its music community, with Sound Music Cities conducting a music census. Mayor-President Monique Boulet (boo-LAY) says the project aims to keep the region’s music authentic and organic and support its growth for the next 50 years.

Cut 6 (11) …those dance halls.”

The music census starts October 1st and lasts three weeks.

Also next Tuesday, a new pilot program begins in which library pass holders can obtain a free one-day pass to any of Louisiana’s state parks.

Cut 3 (08) “…be return users.”

State Librarian Meg Placke (PLACK-ee) says 18 out of the 68 library systems are participating in the pilot program, along with the state library in Baton Rouge, with the goal of eventually expanding this statewide.

Lafayette is taking steps to strengthen its vibrant music ecosystem. Colleen Crain explains.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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People in the eight parishes affected most by Hurricane Francine can start applying for disaster benefits today. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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On Saturday LDWF is celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day by hosting events at four locations across the state.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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As Lafayette celebrates 50 years of Festival of D’Acadiens and Creole, they’re launching an initiative to strengthen its music community. For three weeks in October, Sound Music Cities will conduct a music census. Lafayette Mayor-President, Monique Boulet (boo-LAY) says the data collected from musicians, venue owners, educators, producers and all stakeholders will guide future support and growth.

Cut 4 (10) “…as it always has been.”

It’s also the 50^th year for Beausoleil (BO-so-lay). Boulet says the region is filled with an abundance of talent and the young musicians are blossoming.

Cut 5 (11) “…a genre alive.”

The Lafayette Music Census begins October first and runs for three weeks. Boulet says the project aims to keep the region’s music authentic and organic and support its growth for the next 50 years.

Cut 6 (11) …those dance halls.”

The Cajun, Creole, and Zydeco music of the region will be featured at Festival of D’Acadiens and Creole, October 11th through the 13^th.

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Those living in the eight parishes most affected by Hurricane Francine can start applying for DSNAP benefits today. Last week, the Department of Children and Family Services received federal approval for multiple forms of disaster food assistance. Sammy Guillory with DCFS says registration for the first three days is based on the applicant’s last name.

Cut 7 (10) “…N through Z.”

And next Monday and Tuesday, registration is open to everyone in those eight parishes. Once approved, applicants should get their DSNAP cards within two to three days. Guillory says there are certain requirements.

Cut 8 (13) “…based on that.”

Guillory says those who are already receiving SNAP benefits shouldn’t bother to apply.

Cut 9 (09)  “…get more benefits.”

Applications are done over the phone; those unable to do so, including the elderly and disabled, can apply in person.

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day Saturday by hosting events at four locations across the state.  LDWF Secretary Madison Sheahan says the event showcases what LDWF does daily.

Cut 10 (08) “…about this weekend.”

These events aim to promote outdoor activities, wildlife conservation, and responsible hunting and fishing practices. Sheahan says attendees can participate in hands-on activities like archery, fishing, and target shooting.

Cut 11 (13) “…see what we do.”

The events are designed to educate both newcomers and seasoned sportsmen about sustainable practices and the importance of wildlife management. Sheahan says National Hunting and Fishing Day spotlights Louisiana’s rich outdoor heritage while fostering community involvement in conservation efforts.

Cut 12 (08) “…able to do that.”

For information on event locations and times go to WLF-dot-Louisiana-dot-gov.

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Senator Bill Cassidy says Louisiana is getting four-million dollars for transportation projects. Two-million is going to New Orleans International Airport, which will use the money for an automated people mover system.

Cut 13 (11)  “…and New Orleans.”

As for the other two-million dollars…

Cut 14 (09) “…to alleviate congestion.”

Cassidy says shoring up the state’s infrastructure is vital for the state’s future.

Cut 15 (13) “…to move to.”

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Saints Pro bowl center Erik McCoy will reportedly miss the next six to eight weeks after undergoing surgery on his groin. McCoy was injured in the first quarter in the loss to the Eagles and New Orleans had trouble moving the ball against Philadelphia’s defense. WWL Saints analyst Mike Detillier says Lucas Patrick will take McCoy’s place at center…

Cut 16 (15)   “…type center”

Detillier says McCoy is the glue of the Saints offensive line…

Cut 17 (12) “…Erik McCoy .”

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ULM begins Sun Belt play this Saturday with a road game at Troy, the back-to-back conference champs. The Warhawks rank 130th in passing offense, coach Bryant Vincent knows they can be better…

Cut 18 (14)  “…execute.”

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Saturday’s LSU-South Alabama game will be a homecoming for Jaguars coach Major Applewhite, who grew up in Baton Rouge and was a star quarterback at Catholic High. But Applewhite is treating his trip to B-R as an opportunity to go 3-and-2 on the season…

Cut 19 (22) “….good performance”  

Applewhite is in his first season as the head coach at South Alabama and the Jaguars enter the game as huge underdogs. LSU is favored by 22.5. Applewhite on what it will take to pull off the upset…

Cut 20 (19) “..as a program”

With six weeks to go until the 2024 election, voter interest appears to be waning. JNC Analytics Founder and President John Couvillion (KOO-vee-ahn) says one reason is election fatigue…

Cut 13 (08) “…him and Biden.” 

Additionally, an increasing number of undecided voters and lower-than-expected turnout at campaign events suggest that enthusiasm may be significantly lower compared to that of previous election cycles. 

The Senate will once again be taking up Senator Bill Cassidy’s RISEE (RISE) Act. RISEE, with two E’s, stands for Reinvesting In Shorelines Economies and Ecosystems Act. Senator Cassidy says the bill amends the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act, or GOMESA.

Cut 9 (13)  “…protection and resiliency.”

Tropical Storm Helene is expected to strengthen into a Category 3 hurricane and make landfall in Florida’s Panhandle by Thursday, and Louisiana is out of the crosshairs.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

The national champion LSU women’s gymnastics team is named the grand marshal of the 2024 Natchitoches Christmas Parade. Organizers say the team has everything they’re looking for – it represents camaraderie, provides wholesome family entertainment and upholds great values.

In an emotional press conference Monday afternoon, Pineville Mayor Rich Dupree announced he will resign effective October 6th. In August, Dupree admitted to a brief affair with a former employee who later filed a hostile workplace environment complaint with the EEOC. Dupree said he was honored to have served as Mayor and was proud of his administration’s progress…

Cut 9 (11)  “…that’s underway.”

The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is taking its fight against waste tires to the people. LDEQ Secretary Aurelia Giacometto (jock-uh-MET-oh) says tires that are properly disposed of not only keep the state clean, but also go to good use.

Cut 5 (13) “…their usable lifespan.”

The department is holding six town hall meetings across the state to gain input on changes that it can present to Governor Landry.

Bossier Parish authorities arrested an Elm Grove man who allegedly held a woman captive for three days and sexually assaulted her.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 3 (36) “…Im Sean Richardson.”

Having passed up a re-election bid, Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is trying to cram in his legislative priorities in the three-plus months he has left in office. Among the bipartisan bills he’s working on is one which would make it easier for governors to request lump-sum payments for recovery for smaller-scale disaster.

The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is taking its fight against waste tires to the people across the state. LDEQ Secretary Aurelia Giacometto (jock-uh-MET-oh) says improperly disposed tires continue to plague the state.

Cut 6 (12) …in drainage ditches.”

DEQ is holding a series of town hall meetings across the state to gain input on potential changes that it can present to Governor Landry.

Having passed up a re-election bid, Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is trying to cram in his legislative priorities in the three-plus months he has left in office. Among the bipartisan bills he’s working on is one which would make it easier for governors to request lump-sum payments for recovery for smaller-scale disasters.

Cut 13 (11)  “…recovery from there.”

Graves is also working on a bill to hold FEMA accountable for delays in payments to disaster victims.

Amidst controversy, Pineville Mayor Rich Dupree is stepping down. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

A man who Bossier Parish investigators say held a woman against her will for three days and sexually assaulted her is under arrest. The sheriff’s office says 52-year-old Gary Free of Elm Grove held the woman in a cabin at the Red River South Marina before she was able to escape. Free was arrested and booked on numerous charges including second-degree kidnapping and first-degree rape.