Louisiana’s all-time winningest college basketball coach, Mike McConathy, is looking to run for the District 31 state senate seat. The former Northwestern State and Bossier Parish Community College coach says he has a good feeling for the needs of the area…

Cut 10 (09) “…possibly can” 

District 31 covers ten parishes in northwest and central Louisiana

Now that the state has only four centers accepting injured or orphaned wildlife, Director of Acadiana Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Letitia Labbie says their patient load has tripled and they need funds more wildlife means more food.

Cut 7 (08) “…recently.”

And that’s just owls, food expenses are close to $65,000 annually.

Biologists say coastal erosion and rising sea levels are shrinking the habitats for some of Louisiana’s favorite fish—so the Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries is proposing big changes to speckled trout limits. Marsanne Golsby reports.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby.”

Louisiana’s all-time winningest college basketball coach, Mike McConathy, is considering a run at political office. The former Northwestern State and Bossier Parish Community College coach says he’s looking at running for the District 31 state senate seat, which covers ten parishes in northwest and central Louisiana…

Cut 29 (10)  “…to people.”

McConathy won 682 games in 39 seasons as a head coach.

The US Senate released a PSA on the warnings of Rainbow Fentanyl ahead of Halloween. Executive Director of the Louisiana Addiction Research Center at LSU Health Shreveport Nick Goeders says the pills are made as a way to disguise the drug as it comes into the country, in some cases even looking similar to oxycontin…

Cut  11 (09)  “…real medicines.”

Now that the state has only four centers accepting injured or orphaned wildlife, Director of the Acadiana Wildlife Education and Rehabilitation Letitia Labbie (La-bay) says they’ve seen a drastic increase among birds of prey and the arrival is steady.

Cut 6 (12)  “…into the wild.” 

Visit AcadianaWildlife-dot-org for more info.

46th Annual Zwolle Tamale Fiesta in Sabine Parish is underway. Festival President Chris Loupe estimates around five thousand dozen tamales will be consumed over the four-day event. And if for some reason you’re not a tamale connoisseur…

Cut 29 (13)  “…good tamale.”

President Biden will pardon thousands of people convicted of simple marijuana possession… Baton Rouge criminal defense attorney Andre Belanger (bel AHN zhay) says the pardon only impacts the few with federal marijuana charges and the pardons are no big deal…

Cut 14 (10)  “…be a big deal.”

The US Senate released a PSA on the warnings of Rainbow Fentanyl ahead of Halloween. Executive Director of the Louisiana Addiction Research Center at LSU Health Shreveport Nick Goeders says the pills are made as a way to disguise the drug as it comes into the country, in some cases even looking similar to oxycontin…

Cut  11 (09)  “…real medicines.”

For more information visit the DEA’s online resource page.

We are getting even closer to mid-term elections and nationally turnout has increased steadily, pollster John Couvillon says he expects that to continue—even in a relatively low-key election season in Louisiana.

Cut 6 (06)  “…healthy side.” 

Early voting begins October 25^th and goes until November 1^st for the November 8^th election.

The 46^th Annual Zwolle Tamale Fiesta is underway, and like most festivals it has plenty of rides, music, arts and crafts, and even a parade on Saturday. But President Chris Loupe says their event has a few other things that aren’t run-of-the-mill like taking your truck for a spin in the mud bog…

Cut 8 (07)  “…you can.”

He says they serve four kinds of Tamales, mild, medium, hot and extra hot but he says proceed with caution on the extra hot. Loupe also boasts they have some of

We are just a month away from the federal elections. Senator John Kennedy is the heavy favorite to win re-election, but pollster John Couvillion says that race might have some surprises.  Marsanne Golsby reports

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Marsanne Golsby.”

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The 46^th Annual Zwolle Tamale Fiesta is underway in Sabine Parish, and they are prepping to serve five thousand dozen tamales. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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President Biden pardons thousands of persons for federal marijuana possession convictions. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Federal elections are getting close. The open congressional primary election will be on November 8^th. Senator John Kennedy is considered a heavy favorite to win re-election. However, pollster John Couvillon says that race could have implications that affect next year’s statewide races.

Cut 4 (10)  “…comes up with.”

Kennedy’s best-known challengers are moderate white Democrat Luke Mixon and African American Democrat Gary Chambers. Couvillon says he expects Chambers to finish second.

In Southwest Louisiana, incumbent Clay Higgins is facing what Couvillon believes is a strong challenge from Republican attorney Holden Hoggatt. Couvillon says Higgins is potentially vulnerable because of perceptions he wasn’t aggressive in seeking hurricane relief funds.

Cut 5 (09) “…two years ago.”

He noted that former Congressman Dr. Charles Boustany is expected to endorse Hoggat next week.

Couvillon says national turnout has been steadily increasing in recent years and he expects that to continue—even in a relatively low-key election season in Louisiana.

Cut 6 (06)  “..healthy side.” 

Early voting begins October 25^th and goes until November 1^st.

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Louisiana is known for its Cajun cuisine but in Sabine Parish this weekend you can honor a beloved Mexican staple at the 46th Annual Zwolle Tamale Fiesta. It was almost five-decades ago when Festival President Chris Loupe’s father originated the event after then-Governor Edwin Edwards offered matching funds for festivals this time of year.

Cut 7 (12) “…do it again.”

The four-day event which kicked off Thursday has plenty of rides, music, arts and crafts, and even a parade on Saturday. And Loupe says this festival also has a few other things that aren’t your run-of-the-mill activities, like taking your truck for a spin in the mud bog…

Cut 8 (07)  “…you can.”

The Tamala Fiesta can attract some 15-thousand people and Loupe estimates around five thousand dozen tamales will be consumed this weekend. And if for some reason you’re not a tamale connoisseur…

Cut 9 (13)  “…good tamale.”

As far as the tamales go, Loupe says they have mild, medium, hot, and extra hot but he warns to consume the latter with extreme caution.

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U.S. Senators released a PSA warning about the dangers of Rainbow Fentanyl ahead of the Halloween season. Executive Director of the Louisiana Addiction Research Center at LSU Health Shreveport Nick Goeders says the Drug Enforcement administration has found this rainbow fentanyl in 21 states since February…

Cut 10 (12) “…in them.”

Dr. Goeders says the pills are made as a way to disguise the drug as it comes into the country, in some cases even looking similar to oxycontin…

Cut  11 (09)  “…real medicines.”

Dr. Goeders says while he can’t be sure the drug is targeting children, it could be easily mistaken and urges parents to take caution when trick-or-treating this year…

Cut 12 (10) “…take that” 

Dr. Goeders recommends parents look at the DEA’s online resource, “What every parent and caregiver needs to know about fake pills” to find more information.

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President Biden will pardon thousands of people convicted of simple marijuana possession under federal law, and he is calling on state governors to do likewise. Biden says marijuana laws disproportionately affect people of color. Baton Rouge criminal defense attorney Andre Belanger (bel AHN zhay) says it’s a bold move for the president politically, but…:

Cut 13 (13) “…is going to have.”

In a written statement the President says “no one should be in jail just for using or possessing marijuana.” His pardon affects only those convicted of federal marijuana charges, which Belanger says is relatively few. He says, as it is, the pardons are “no big deal”…:

Cut 14 (10)  “…be a big deal.”

Biden is calling on state governors to follow suit and pardon their simple possession convictions as well. Belanger says our state is actually ahead of many others in taking steps to decriminalize marijuana possession, and other marijuana reforms are being considered. Governor John Bel Edwards may consider issuing state pardons for simple possession before he leaves office at the end of next year…:

Cut 15 (11)  “…two different concepts.”

In Louisiana, simple possession of weed carries a penalty of up to six months in jail and fines up to $500 for a first offense.

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LSU will face its biggest test yet as they take on eighth-ranked Tennessee in Death Valley tomorrow. Quarterback Jayden Daniels, who transferred to the team from Arizona St. this offseason, says he’s excited for the challenge that comes with playing in the SEC…

Cut 16 (20)  “…have fun.” 

Daniels has thrown for 915 yards and 6 touchdowns on a 68% completion percentage this season, but his biggest stat is his zero interceptions to this point. Daniels says he prides himself on limiting turnovers…

Cut 17 (19) “…the ball.” 

The Tigers are averaging 36 points per game this season and 26 in SEC play, but against the high-flying offense of the Volunteers, wide receiver Malik Nabers says they need to get off to a fast start…

Cut 18 (14) “…field longer.” 

Tiger Stadium is already sold out for the 11 AM kickoff.

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After losing to Arkansas State 48-25 last Saturday, ULM will host Coastal Carolina for homecoming tomorrow. The Warhawks are 2-and-3 and Coach Terry Bowden says the losing record does not sit well for his team…

Cut 19 (15) “…be successful.”

Coastal is 5-0 and they won a close game last week, edging out Georgia Southern 34-30. Bowden says they will arrive in Monroe believing they will come away with a win…

Cut 20 (23) “ …football game.” 

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A day after launching his bid to be the next governor of Louisiana. Attorney General Jeff Landry spoke with Jeff Palermo about his campaign…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says the U-S Department of Commerce is sending 300-thousand dollars to his tourism department so that the state can use those funds to promote Louisiana as a travel destination in three specific international markets…Madrid, Milan, and Mumbai…

Cut 7 (06) “…or state.”
Louisiana Commissioner of Agriculture Mike Strain says he has been meeting with USDA officials on how to create a better mechanism for farmers to receive assistance when they’re impacted by natural disasters, because disaster funding is handled differently each time for farmers. He says there needs to be a standard mechanism in place.

Cut 10 (10) “…of parishes” 

According to Dr. Loren Scott’s economic outlook, he believes there will be a national recession in the first to third quarter of 2023, but Louisiana should be able to weather the storm due to expected job growth. He says the recession

will be relatively short because the federal reserve has to do something to curb our current inflation.

Cut 14 (10)  “…into a recession.” 

And after that he expects Louisiana will see a growth of some 31-thousand jobs.

A day after launching his bid to be the next governor of Louisiana. Attorney General Jeff Landry spoke with Jeff Palermo about his campaign…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

When Governor John Bel Edwards was asked about the possibility of Landry being his successor, Edwards says he’s not ready to back anyone politically for the state’s head office, but he said he knows he won’t Landry. The two have been opposed on several occasions as they held statewide office, the most recent disagreement was over COVID restrictions.

Louisiana Commissioner of Agriculture Mike Strain says he has been meeting with USDA officials on how to create a better mechanism for farmers to receive assistance when they’re impacted by natural disasters, because disaster funding is handled differently each time for farmers. He says there needs to be a standard mechanism in place.

Cut 10 (10) “…of parishes” 

According to Loren C. Scott and Associates’ economic outlook, the Bayou State is expected to add over 14-thousand jobs next year and more than twice that in 2024. But Economist Dr. Loren Scott says that’s still 38-thousand jobs short of the pre-pandemic employment level.

Cut 12 (12) “…recovering those jobs.”

Scott predicts there will be a significant growth in industrial construction jobs to support infrastructure projects in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Lake Charles.

When 36-year-old Katie Darling launched her campaign ad this week for Louisiana’s first congressional district it went viral because it showed her moments after giving birth to her second child. The democrat says she wanted to highlight how her high-risk pregnancy was even more stressful since Roe v. Wade was overturned. And while she’s a dark horse in the race against incumbent Steve Scalise…

Cut  11 (11)  “…deserve better.”

Attorney General Jeff Landry has officially launched his campaign to be Louisiana’s next Governor. “LAPolitics.com” publisher Jeremy Alford says it comes as little surprise in political circles, as Landry has been (as Alford puts it) “walking for Governor” for some time…:

Cut 4 (07)  “…out the gate.”

Today is the deadline for thousands of Louisiana taxpayers who have not received their state income returns to claim them from the Department of Revenue. Revenue spokesperson Byron Henderson says in August the department sent out letters to individuals who’ve yet to claim their return.

Cut 13 (12) “…of the taxpayer.”

For more information visit revenue.louisiana.gov

Cincinnati Bengals Quarterback Joe Burrow launches a nonprofit program to help Louisiana and Ohio families in need overcome food disparities, and childhood mental health issues, The Joe Burrow Foundation will be led by the quarterback’s father Jimmy Burrow who says even though it’s just kicking off donations have already begun to pour in.

Cut 8 (12)  “…was getting.”

State Attorney General Jeff Landry gets a jump on possible other candidates by being first to officially declare his desire to be elected Governor in 2023. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Cincinnati Bengals Quarterback Joe Burrow has launched a nonprofit advocating for families struggling mentally and financially. Whitney Thomas has more…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Whitney Thomas.” 

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When political newcomer Katie Darling’s campaign ad giving birth dropped this week it went viral, and the Covington resident says her phone hasn’t stopped ringing. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Attorney General Jeff Landry has officially launched his campaign to be Louisiana’s next Governor. He made the announcement Wednesday; giving him over a year for campaigning and fundraising. “LAPolitics.com” publisher Jeremy Alford says it comes as little surprise in political circles, as Landry has been (as Alford puts it) “walking for Governor” for some time…:

Cut 4 (07)  “…out the gate.”

Landry’s intent to run has been the topic of speculation for months. In September, people were seen at Landry’s annual alligator hunt fundraiser wearing “Landry Governor 2023” logo’ed gear. Alford says he was Landry’s announcement, via a six-minute campaign announcement video, before the November election…:

Cut 5 (09) “…in this race.”

Alford says Landry has a deep and complex fundraising mechanism that extends into other states and Washington DC. His announcement means the state attorney general’s race is now wide open for next year. So far three candidates have announced: Lake Charles lawyer Martin Maley, Crowley state Representative John Stefanski and current state solicitor General Liz Murrill. Alford says the state’s high violent crime rate will make the A.G. race an important one…:

Cut 6 (06)  “…gonna be discussed.” 

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Cincinnati Bengals Quarterback Joe Burrow has launched a nonprofit program to help families in need overcome food disparities, and childhood mental health issues.The Joe Burrow foundation will provide resources to underprivileged families in Ohio and Louisiana.

The former LSU star’s dad Jimmy Burrow will serve as vice president of the Burrow Foundation.

Cut 7 (13) “…down there.”

Burrow says although the Foundation just started, donations have already begun to pour in. 

Cut 8 (12)  “…was getting.”

Burrow says they are working with advisors in Baton Rouge for financial assistance.

Cut 9 (12)  “…down there..”

To learn more about the Burrow foundation or to donate visit JoeBurrow.org

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When 36-year-old Katie Darling launched her campaign ad this week for Louisiana’s first congressional district it went viral because it showed her moments after giving birth to her second child. The democrat says she wanted to highlight how her high-risk pregnancy was even more stressful since Roe v. Wade was overturned.

Cut 10 (12) “…vote for.”

Darling, who lives on a farm in St. Tammany Parish with her husband and two children says she hasn’t spent her career in DC, she’s worked her way up from bartender to CEO helping nurses organize complicated health records.  And while she’s a dark horse in the race against incumbent Steve Scalise…

Cut  11 (11)  “…deserve better.”

Since her ad has gone viral Darling says the contributions are rolling in and even the national democratic party is taking notice, but there’s one constituent who’s extremely impressed with the campaign, her six-year-old daughter Remy.

Cut 12 (09) “…our family.” 

Darling along with Libertarian Howard Kearney will face Republican Scalise in the November 8^th election. Early voting begins October 25^th.

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Today is the deadline for thousands of Louisiana taxpayers who have not received their state income returns to claim them from the Department of Revenue. Revenue spokesperson Byron Henderson says in August the department sent out letters to individuals who’ve yet to claim their return.

Cut 13 (12) “…of the taxpayer.”

Henderson says individuals who received notice can simply follow the instructions in the letter to claim their return and if they’ve lost the letter, contact the Department of Revenue directly.

Cut 14 (10)  “…refunds are.”

The most common reason there are unclaimed tax returns is due to an individual moving. Henderson says if you have moved since you last filed your taxes it’s very easy to update your mailing address.

Cut 15 (09)  “…with us.”

The Department of Revenue will issue paper checks to those individuals who file vouchers by today’s deadline.

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Eighth-ranked Tennessee comes to Tiger Stadium with a 4-0 record. They last defeated Florida 38-33 in Knoxville on September 24th. Gators quarterback Anthony Richardson had a big game, throwing for 453 yards and two touchdowns. He also rushed for 62 yards and two scores. LSU’s Jayden Daniels is also a dual-threat quarterback and Vols Coach Josh Heupel says they need to make sure Daniels doesn’t beat them with his legs

Cut 16 (22)  “…this football game.” 

LSU has shown the ability to come from behind in games this season. Heupel says they’ll need to play well for 60 minutes in order to win in Baton Rouge…

Cut 17 (25) “…the game’s played.” 

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Louisiana Tech will welcome UTEP to Joe Aillet Stadium. The Miners are 3-and-3 and they are coming off a 41-35 win over Charlotte where they had 252 rushing yards. Bulldogs defensive lineman Deshon Hall says they like to run the ball…

Cut 18 (17) “…their game.” 

Louisiana Tech enters the game with a 1-and-3 record and in their last game, only scored 14 points in a loss to South Alabama on September 24th. Bulldogs Coach Sonny Cumbie would like to get wide receiver Smoke Harris going. The All-Conference USA selection last season has just 16 catches and two touchdowns this season…

Cut 19 (21) “..just relaxing”

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Cut 20 (20) “ …with Dalton.” 

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Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry becomes the first candidate to officially announce he’s running for governor. The Republican from the Lafayette area released a six-minute announcement video today seeking the support of Louisiana voters in the 2023 gubernatorial election

Cut 9 (10)  “…and deserve.”

In the video, Landry discussed the importance of parents having a voice in a child’s education and the crime that’s gripped major cities.

Lafayette Police are trying to figure out what led to yesterday’s murder spree committed by 36-year-old Andres Felix of Lafayette. He also took his own life. Senior Corporal Matthew Benoit says the first shooting death of Ross Chaisson happened around 10 AM and Felix then stole a vehicle and continued his shooting spree.
Cut 12 (08) “…third homicide.”
The third victim was his estranged wife, 43-year-old Kawana Felix, and Paige Lewis of Duson was also killed.

The statewide average price for a gallon of regular gasoline jumped nearly four cents overnight to a statewide average of $3.14. Triple-A Fuel analyst Don Redman says a tight supply for gasoline and high demand has caused pump prices to rise, plus OPEC announced today it’s slashing production by two percent…

Cut 6 (08)  “…crude’s going to be” 

Redman expects prices to keep rising during the rest of 2022.

If you’re looking for a staycation bargain look no father than Louisiana State Parks. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says stay four nights at one of the 21 state parks and pay for three with the discount code KICKOFF2022. And check out new cabins at South Toledo Bend.

Cut 5 (08) “…larger showers.” 

The discount does not apply to holiday weekends. Visit ReserveLAstateParks.com

Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry becomes the first candidate to officially announce he’s running for governor. The Republican from the Lafayette area released a six-minute announcement video today seeking the support of Louisiana voters in the 2023 gubernatorial election

Cut 9 (11)  “…and property.”

In the video Landry discussed the importance of parents having a voice in a child’s education and the crime that’s gripped major cities.

If you want to go camping this fall, there’s a deal to grab at Louisiana State Parks. Now through the end of December, you can get four nights for the price of three at any cabins at one of the state’s 21 parks. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says just enter the promo code KICKOFF2022 when you book at ReserveLaStateParks.com.

Cut 3 (07) “…for Halloween.” 

The statewide average price for a gallon of regular gasoline jumped nearly four-cents overnight to a statewide average of $3.14. Triple-A Fuel analyst Don Redman says a tight supply for gasoline and high demand has caused pump prices to rise and he expects prices to keep through the rest of 2022.

Cut 7 (12) “…prices down.”

And OPEC says they are slashing production by two percent.

Children’s Hospital in New Orleans says they are almost at full capacity because of the uptick in respiratory illness cases. With infections on the rise health officials are advising people to take flu shots early on. Pediatrician Dr. Marcella Houser with LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans says the symptoms seen in children are all common

Cut 13 (10) “…pediatrics office.”