New laws signed by the governor aim to make cutting edge cancer detection and new treatments more readily available…and covered by your insurance. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

________________________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards is off to Europe today to swap flood control challenges with the Netherlands. Marsanne Golsby has more:

Cut 2 (30) “….I’m Marsanne Golsby.” 

________________________________________________

As residents continue to experience high utility bills, the Public Service Commission says they are trying to help. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

___________________________________________________

The governor hosted a ceremonial bill signing Thursday at the Capitol, to herald in a package of new bills providing for improved, cutting-edge cancer care. Among those in attendance, former state representative and cancer survivor Julie Stokes. She says one bill will expand access to so-called precision medicine, by requiring health care insurers to cover it. Stokes says precision medicine is a more focused method than chemotherapy…:

Cut 4 (08)  “…of chemotherapy.”

Stokes is the founder of SCAN, the Survivors Cancer Action Network. She says the precision medicine bill couples with another bill establishing enhanced “biomarker” testing, to detect possible genetic causes of cancers and possible mutations…:

Cut 5 (09) “…are for you.”

Another bill in the package provides for health insurers to cover biomarker testing for babies in natal intensive care, to help them get out of a NICU faster and live normal lives. The final bill paves the way for patients to have easier access to their own medical records, so they can navigate cancer treatments with fewer problems. Stokes says the bills, and precision medicine treatments, are a major step in health care for Louisianans…:

Cut 6 (09)  “…is so exciting.”

_______________________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards is off to Europe today to swap flood control challenges with the Netherlands.

Cut 7 (07) “….water levels increase.”

The governor says Louisiana’s experience in dealing with rising waters caused by climate change is valuable to European governments facing the same challenges.

Cut 8 (10)  “…and  water management.”

The governor adds that innovations to fight climate change actually bring with them economic development opportunities involving new environmentally-friendly projects.

Cut 9 (06)  “…and the transition.”

The governor will also travel to France to raise awareness about a 400-million dollar capital campaign for the National World War Two Museum. Edwards says he’ll also use the trip to advance Louisiana’s economic interests with major international companies and discuss the energy industry’s transition. The delegation is scheduled to return on Sunday, August 14th.

________________________________________________

High utility bills continue to plague residents and PSC Commissioner Craig Greene says they are looking at ways to help lower rates. He says the commission wants utility providers to become customer service-focused, more energy efficient, and look at long-term resiliency.

Cut 10 (08) “…we’ve had.”

He says you can ask your local PSC office to review your bill for possible errors.

Greene says even though companies like Entergy spent $4.5 billion to restore power after the hurricanes, they have to be reimbursed for that cost which falls on the ratepayer. Greene says he’s often asked if the company is going to send their shareholders a billion dollars why can’t they chip in on repairs?

Cut  11 (09)  “…taking the risk.” 

The price of natural gas is at record high levels and Greene says the current structure does not incentivize utility providers to lock in prices early and pass those savings along to the ratepayer.

Cut 12 (10) “…their profit.” 

Greene says they are also lobbying the federal government to pay for restoration costs instead of the consumer.

_________________________________________________

Monkeypox has been declared a health emergency in the US, and LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine is hosting an event today to give healthcare professionals the most up-to-date information. Infectious Disease Professor Dr. Michael Hangensee (Hagen-see) says they’ll look at the recent spread of the virus…

Cut 13 (07) “…prevent infection.”

Hagensee says treatment includes the medicine T-pox, which can be given by pill or intravenously for severe cases…

Cut 14 (08)  “…New Orleans area.”

Monkeypox is currently spread mostly among homosexual men and Hagansee says healthcare officials in the state are trying to prevent an outbreak during Decadence Labor Day Weekend, but that being said…

Cut 15 (10)  “…of others.”

As of Thursday, the state reported 69 cases in the state, an increase of 11 from Wednesday.

_______________________________________________

Preseason camp is underway for the LSU Tigers as the Bayou Bengals are 30 days away from the season opener against Florida State in the Superdome. That’s when the Brian Kelly era will officially kick off. The first-year coach is still getting to know his team including his star wide receiver Kayshon Boutte, who he watched practice for the first time yesterday

Cut 16 (14)  “…so hard” .

Kelly announced after the team’s first practice that running back Tre Bradford is no longer at LSU. Bradford appeared in one game after transferring from Oklahoma. But LSU still has a lot of options at running back led by John Emery Junior, Penn State transfer Noah Cain and Josh Williams who scored two touchdowns in the spring game. Kelly says they’ll also get a chance to carry the rock…

Cut 17 (20) “..some fashion ” 

_____________________________________________________________

Saints safety Tyrann Mathieu says he’s appreciative of the support he’s received from the organization after missing the first six practices of training camp. Mathieu returned on Wednesday and is not saying why he was away…

cut  18 (13) “   great spirits”

Mathieu is expected to start at safety. Cornerback Bradley Roby is also expected to make a significant impact this season. He was acquired just four days before the season opener last year and Coach Dennis Allen says Roby looks more comfortable this year

 cut 19 (19) _“…so far” 

____________________________________________________________________

The Ragin Cajun begin this season once again the team to beat in the Sun Belt West. They’ve won the division four years in a row. First-year head coach Michael Desormeaux says in years past the Cajuns started clicking offensively in October, he would like to see the offense reach midseason form earlier…

Cut 20 (18) “ …the season” 

Louisiana is receiving federal help to fight flooding caused by climate change, and it’s FIVE TIMES the amount the state is currently spending per year. More from Marsanne Golsby…:

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

______________________________________

After numerous property insurers exited the state, leaving tens of thousands without coverage, Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon proposes an incentive fund to attract new ones. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher”  

______________________________________

Louisiana is receiving 134 million dollars in federal money to offset the effects of climate change and reduce chronic flooding. Louisiana Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson says projects that will receive this funding are currently being identified…

Cut 3 (07) “…harden infrastructure.” 

Wilson says the 134 million dollars will be spread out over the next five years, so the state is expected to receive 25 million dollars this fiscal year….

Cut 4  (05) “…road elevations”

Wilson says there are a large number of bridges and roads that stand to be elevated and can benefit for this latest allotment from the federal government…

Cut 5  (11) “…rain”

Wilson says the money can also be used to update pumping capacity.

_____________________________________________

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon wants the state to set aside a pot of money to lure new insurance companies to Louisiana. Donelon says his agency did the same after 2006 Hurricanes Katrina & Rita overwhelmed insurers with over 700-thousand claims. That resulted in companies leaving the state and forcing thousands to the state’s bulwark insurer, Louisiana Citizens. He says, back then, an incentive program successfully brought a number of new companies to take on Louisiana coverage…:

Cut 6 (07) “…global marketplace.” 

Donelon says that program successfully employed a fund of over $29-million state dollars, and brought new property insurers to help reduce the Louisiana Citizens book of business…:

Cut 7 (11) “…In Go-Zone parishes.” 

Over 90-thousand homes and businesses were left without coverage, when several companies pulled out of Louisiana. Many had to go with Louisiana Citizens.

Donelon has spoken with House & Senate insurance committee heads about the plan, and says he’ll talk soon with the Governor, Senate President and House Speaker to make his request. He says a lot of federal recovery & pandemic money has flowed into Louisiana…:

Cut 8 (09) “…to come write.”

________________________________________________

The next time you’re in the Dome watching the Saints, thanks to a new partnership with Waitr, soon to be known as ASAP, you won’t have to stand in line to order concessions. Dean Turcol with ASAP says you can use your handy app to order food and then you’ll get a notice when to pick it up.

Cut 9 (10)  “…the Saints.”

Turcol says in the Dome there will be two ways to access the ASAP app, you can either use the QR codes on the concourse that will take you to the app to order your concessions…

Cut 10 (10) “…it’s done.” 

The new stadium service will also be available at New York Jets and Giants games this fall and Turcol says they plan to add more NFL stadiums in the future. He says the stadium service is just part of the company’s rebranding from Waitr to ASAP.

Cut 11 (10)  “…to ASAP.”

He says their slogan in the stadium will be “We’re the best pick-up line.” Waitr was founded in 2013 and is currently based in Lafayette

____________________________________________________

Three tax preparers from Westwego face felony charges for allegedly defrauding the state’s disaster relief program. Department of Revenue spokesperson Byron Henderson identifies the three people arrested, Starr Carbo, Johnnie Mae Ricard and Erica Williams, employees of Global Tax Service in Jefferson Parish…

Cut 12 (11) “…value of the losses”  

Carbo, Ricard and Williams have been charged with Injuring public records. Henderson says their investigators learned they charged clients as much as 110-dollars and they inflated the value of the losses when submitting for a refund on sales tax they paid on items lost during a declared disaster

Cut 13 (04) “…their clients”

A new law that took effect Monday paves the way for Louisiana’s growing wind energy industry. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

________________________________________________

Former Chairwoman of the Louisiana Democratic Party and state senator Karen Carter Peterson enters a guilty plea to a wire fraud charge. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 2 (27) “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

________________________________________________

Adoptees who are 24 years of age or older can request a copy of their original Louisiana birth certificate thanks to a law that went into effect on August 1^st. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

___________________________________________________

A new law that took effect Monday helps pave the way for Louisiana’s developing wind energy industry. Authored in the legislature by Houma  Representative Jerome Zeringue (zer-ANG), the new law increases a previously set limit of just 5000 acres for development of wind farms to 25-thousand acres which he says creates more possibilities for investors to get into wind power…:

Cut 4 (11)  “…particular wind farm.”

The law adds wind to forms of energy for which the state may officially enter into lease sales – either offshore or on land. It also establishes a mechanism for the state to get a revenue share of energy created. Zeringue says the law removes certain other restrictions, but expanding the available acreage is a major step forward…:

Cut 5 (10) “…economically feasible.”

Zeringue says the new law will be a large part of an “all-of-the-above” approach to energy for Louisiana, and he expects oil & gas companies will want to get more involved…:

Cut 6 (12)  “…build a wind turbine.”

_______________________________________________

LSU’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center is embarking on two studies that will look at female athletes’ mental and physical resilience. Pennington’s Director of the Behavior Technology Laboratory Doctor Tiffany Stewart says for too long, sports have focused solely on wins and losses, while ignoring athletes’ mental health…

Cut 7 (09) “…difficult times.”

Stewart says one project will recruit 500 female athletes nationwide to assess overall mental health and resilience while a second study will focus on 50 female athletes at LSU…

Cut 8 (12)  “…with that”

Dr. Stewart expects the research projects will result in tools to help female athletes meet the particular challenges they face as female athletes.

Cut 9 (07)  “…in the future.”

________________________________________________

In Louisiana adoptees who are 24 years of age or older can request a copy of their original birth certificate thanks to a law that went into effect on August 1^st. Elise Lewis, one of the founders of the Louisiana Coalition for Adoption Reform says they’ve received positive feedback from adoptees…

Cut 10 (12) “…to know.”

Lewis says they’ve lobbied for several years to give adopted persons the right to have access to their original birth certificate which has the names of their biological parents, but she credits Rosepine Representative Chuck Owens for sharing his personal story of adoption with lawmakers for the bill finally becoming law.

Cut  11 (11)  “…from their families.” 

If you’re adopted and want to get a copy of your original birth certificate you can only request it online at the Louisiana Department of Health’s vital statistics website. Lewis says under the adoption information tab you can click on the application for their pre-adoption birth certificate.

Cut 12 (11) “…pre-adoption birth certificate.” 

For more information click here https://ldh.la.gov/page/680.

_________________________________________________

August is often when hurricane season starts to really heat up, and Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says it pays to get prepared now for a possible storm damage claim. Donelon says now is the time to get out your property insurance declaration page and read it thoroughly…:

Cut 13 (11) “…Named Storm Deductible.”

Donelon says the Named Storm Deductible applies for hurricanes and tropical storms and requires you put up 5-percent of your property’s value before insurance kicks in. A $200-thousand home would have a NSD of $10-thousand. Donelon says you should also shoot photos or video of the interior contents of your home…:

Cut 14 (13)  “…your claim processed.”

Donelon says it’s important to not wait until after a storm has hit your property to take these simple steps. He also says consider getting National Flood Insurance, in case your home should take on high water. He says regular homeowner’s insurance won’t cover that, and – despite cost increases -flood insurance is still a tremendous value…:

Cut 15 (09)  “…continue to do it.”

_______________________________________________

Saints linebacker Demario Davis is entering his fifth season in the NFL and his 11th overall. He’s made the All-Pro team the last three years and the 33-year-old says the goal for this year’s Black and Gold defense is to be the best they can be….

Cut 16 (16)  “….to be” .

The Saints had to replace their 2021 starting safeties in the offseason. Malcolm Jenkins retired and Marcus Williams signed with the Ravens. Davis likes the new additions and the team returns many of the key players that made them one of the best defenses in the NFL last season…

Cut 17 (23) “…in the building” 

Many fans are concerned about a drop off at head coach with former defensive coordinator Dennis Allren replacing Sean Payton. But Davis calls Allen one of the smartest coaches he’s ever been around…

Cut 18 (20) “   about it”

28 men and women who have at least two years of law enforcement experience have started their training in the first ever accelerated cadet class with the Louisiana State Police. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s First Circuit Court of Appeals has issued a suspensive appeal as the state’s abortion ban law moves through the court system. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

______________________________________

An accelerated cadet academy for Louisiana State troopers is underway. Sergeant Monroe Dillion says in their 86 years of cadet classes this is their first ever accelerated academy with 28 men and women embarking on their future as state troopers.

Cut 3 (10) “…14 weeks.” 

The accelerated class includes cadets that already have a minimum of two years of full-time law enforcement experience. And because these cadets already have law enforcement experience in Louisiana, Dillon says they don’t have to repeat the curriculum that the cadets are already certified in.

Cut 4  (11) “…defensive tactics”

The cadets will also receive extensive training in lawful uses of force and implicit bias recognition in their accelerated academy.

Dillion says with the retirement of many troopers and the recruitment of law enforcement officers being down nationwide, he says there’s a reason for holding an accelerated academy.

Cut 5  (11) “…be out there.”

LSP’s next cadet academy will get underway in February 2023 and the deadline for applications is October 17th.

_____________________________________________

Louisiana’s law that bans most abortions is back in effect. Baton Rouge Judge Don Johnson has signed an order that suspends his preliminary injunction. Loyola University Law Professor Dane Ciolino says Judge Johnson’s action is the result of a ruling Friday from the Louisiana First Circuit Court of Appeals…

Cut 6 (11) “…lower court’s ruling” 

Judge Johnson had issued a restraining order against the law from going into effect while he studies the merits of the law. But Ciolino says it was just a matter of time before the appeals court would act…

Cut 7 (08) “…law requires.” 

Ciolino says once the case reaches the Louisiana Supreme Court, the state’s highest court will likely rule the abortion ban is legal. He says if pro-choice advocates want to change the law, they’ll need the Legislature’s help…

Cut 8 (05) “…not by the courts”

________________________________________________

The Mayor of Ville Platte, Jennifer Vidrine, was installed Saturday as president of the Louisiana Municipal Association; making her the first Black woman to hold that position. Vidrine says she is honored to be elected by her peers…:

Cut 9 (12)  “…it’s also humbling.”

As LMA President, Vidrine will also lead the group’s Executive Board and chair the LMA Executive Committee. She’s been Mayor of Ville Platte, in Evangeline parish, since 2011. In her career in public service, she has broken through a number of racial and gender barriers to get where she is. Vidrine says she didn’t achieve all that alone…:

Cut 10 (11) “…I could stand here.” 

Vidrine says she will represent ALL communities in Louisiana. She says in the past that has not always been the case…:

Cut 11 (09)  “…as they should be.”

Also installed Saturday to the LMA were Cheneyville Mayor Derrick Johnson, First Vice President and Leesville Mayor Rick Allen as Second Vice President.

____________________________________________________

A new law taking effect today makes it a crime to use marijuana in a motor vehicle. Metairie Republican Representative Laurie Schlegel brought the bill in the legislature. She says she thought of the bill after witnessing people in New Orleans, driving around smoking weed…:

Cut 12 (11) “…not be a good thing.”  

Schlegel says, with smokable medical marijuana now legal, it’s a good idea to establish where one CANNOT use it…:

Cut 13 (10) “…driving in a car…”

Schlegel’s new law prohibits smoking marijuana in a moving motor vehicle for both the operator and any passengers. She says the law also applies to vaping marijuana…:

Cut 14 (05)  “…this law as well.” 

Those caught using marijuana in a moving vehicle will face a $100 fine – even if they are using legally prescribed medical marijuana.

Starting today the I-10 Atchafalaya Basin is officially designated as a highway safety corridor. Jeff Palermo on what that means….

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

________________________________________________

Entergy Louisiana says they’re not “gouging” ratepayers, and wish to set the record straight. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 2 (31) “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

________________________________________________

Looking to save money on back-to-school shopping? Research says putting down that coffee could help you save a buck. Erik Piccoli has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Erik Piccoli.”

___________________________________________________

Starting today, speeding fines are doubled on the I-10 Atchafalaya Basin Bridge if motorists are caught going above the 60 mile per hour speed limit for vehicles and 55 miles per hour for commercial trucks. State Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson says in 2023 speed cameras will be installed to track drivers…

Cut 4 (10)  “…third time.”

In June Governor John Bel Edwards signed a law that designates the 18-mile Atchafalaya Basin as a highway safety corridor. Wilson says the legislation also calls for signage restricting trucks to the right lane and eight sets of speed limit signs…

Cut 5 (12) “…80 miles per hour”

There were over 200 crashes that resulted in two deaths and nearly 100 injuries on the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge last year. Senate President Page Cortez says that’s double the number than 20 years ago as distracted driving and speeding become more common. Wilson says the goal of the beefed up enforcement and higher fines is get people to slow down…

Cut 6 (05)  “…driver behavior.”

_______________________________________________

Entergy Louisiana President Phillip May wants to clear up some of what he calls “misconceptions” about high energy bills, and what the utility is doing to help. May says the cost of producing electricity has risen sharply as record-high inflation grips the country…:

Cut 7 (10) “…from our customers.”

May says those high costs are coupled with high customer usage in the summer heat. He says Entergy understands how burdensome it can be for some folks to afford their utility bill…:

Cut 8 (13)  “…who need assistance.”

May says electricity costs have risen sharply all over the U.S., and Entergy is not “gouging” its customers. Still, many customers are angry with storm assessments Entergy has added to their bills. He says they have little choice, if they hope to recoup their storm-related losses…:

Cut 9 (14)  “…present our bills.”

May says storm assessments for Hurricanes Gustav and Ike in 2008 will come off customer bills starting today.

________________________________________________

A new study conducted by the LSU Department of Marketing along with researchers from other Universities has found that caffeine could lead to greater consumer spending. Associate Professor Courtney Szocs says drinks like espressos, coffee and tea impacted not only the degree of spending but also the types of products…

Cut 10 (09) “…products”

These high hedonic products include buttery, salty popcorn; chocolate candy; luxury vacations along with any other items that induce a state of extreme excitement and energy. Szocs says that one should be mindful of what time they consume that caffeinated beverage in order to avoid making that unnecessary purchase…

Cut  11 (12)  “…trying to say” 

Research shows that about 85% of American consumers have at least one caffeinated beverage a day making the chances of purchasing high hedonic relatively common. Szocs says that if one is trying to save a buck on back-to-school shopping this year they ought to put down that coffee and pick up some water…

Cut 12 (13) “…don’t probably need” 

_________________________________________________

A number of new laws passed in the 2022 Legislature go into effect today. One will require all law enforcement officers in the state to be trained in how to recognize signs of human trafficking. Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell brought the bill, and says it’s apparent the training is needed, and it will now be required for all LEO’s employed a year or more…:

Cut 13 (08) “…to recognize it.”

Law enforcement has known for some time the I-10/I-12 corridor is a pipeline for human sex trafficking. Mizell says it can easily go unnoticed, especially in places or events with large crowds, but the problem is also very bad in Louisiana’s small towns as well. She says it coincides with the illegal drug trade…:

Cut 14 (12)  “…dirty, dirty thing.”

The new law will mandate training for officers in how to spot the telltale signs that a person is a victim of trafficking, so they can take appropriate action. Mizell says the law also requires state and local law enforcement agencies to regularly report on training compliance and progress…:

Cut 15 (11)  “…the numbers on that.”

_______________________________________________

The pads come on for the first time today at Saints training camp. Through the first four days of camp, the defense has performed better than the offense. Saints wide receiver Jarvis Landry says the defense is competing at a high level

Cut 16 (18)  “….our DNA”.

Landry says the defensive secondary has a lot of depth and they are versatile…

Cut 17 (15) “…make plays” 

Saints running back Mark Ingram is competing in his 12th NFL training camp. At the age of 32 he’s the NFL’s second oldest running back…

Cut 18 (21) “   …anytime soon”

As many as 150 passengers a day could descend on the river parishes via the Mississippi River. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

______________________________________

At a time when electricity bills are the highest they’ve been, Entergy Louisiana CEO Phillip May appeared before the Public Service Commission. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

______________________________________

An agreement with American Cruise Lines will soon bring tourists via the Mississippi River to Vacherie. Cruises that run from New Orleans to Memphis and the Crescent City to Baton Rouge will make a stop along the way and visit the river parishes. Executive Director of the River Parishes Tourist Commission Jay Robichaux says it’s welcome news for the area.

Cut 3 (07) “…parishes.” 

Robichaux says they already have tours lined up for passengers to visit Oak Alley plantation and passengers will have even more excursion options in the future for St Charles, St John, and St. James parishes.

Cut 4  (11) “…in the river parishes.”

The newer cruise ships don’t need a dock to unload passengers. The vessels can edge their nose to even land and passengers can disembark. But Robichaux a dock is in the works. He says after COVID, and Hurricane Ida tourists will bring a well-needed boost to the economy and they are ready to welcome them ashore.

Cut 5  (11) “…the river parishes.”

They expect ships will be cleared by the Corps of Engineers to stop in Vacherie in the next few weeks.

_____________________________________________

The founders of the WAITR food delivery app develop a new mobile app for skilled tradesmen. Chris Meaux, who founded WAITR in 2013, is Chairman and co-founder of BoomNation. He says people trained as carpenters, pipe fitters, plumbers, welders and more need to check into the BoomNation app…:

Cut 6 (14) “…that they have.” 

There are numerous job-finding apps and websites available…like Indeed, ZipRecruiter and even LinkedIn. Meaux says those are fine, but focus mostly on office-oriented jobs…:

Cut 7 (12) “…to hire them.” 

Meaux says the BoomNation app offers more to skilled tradesmen than just finding and posting jobs…:

Cut 8 (10) “…like-minded skilled workers.”

To know more, visit “BoomNation.com” or search BoomNation in your app store.

________________________________________________

Entergy Louisiana CEO Phillip May tells the Public Service Commission that the utility company is doing more to help customers experiencing higher than normal energy bills. May says they are waiving late payment fees for eligible customers and credit card payment fees and

Cut 9 (09)  “…customers.”

May says high natural gas prices have led to higher electric bills. But PSC member Foster Campbell criticized May for not using more solar power as a way to generate electricity and also pointed out that Entergy’s chairman recently received a one-million dollar raise

Cut 10 (13) “…whole year.” 

May defended Leo Denault’s salary by saying its consistent with his peers around the nation. May says Entergy gets about 80-percent of its electricity from natural gas-fired plants, but has plans to use more solar power

Cut 11 (10)  “…even five years ago.”

Campbell was not buying the answers that May was giving and once again brought up the possibility that utility companies should no longer have a monopoly for the area they serve

Cut 12 (12) “…goin’ all your way”   

Louisiana sets records for its unemployment rate and the number of folks employed in its latest jobs report. Kevin Gallagher has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

________________________________________________

Researchers at Tulane University pinpoint the Wuhan Market in China as the starting place for COVID-19. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 2 (33) “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

________________________________________________

After a national search, the Louisiana Cancer Research Center names its new director. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

___________________________________________________

Louisiana has more people working than ever, but thousands of jobs are vacant. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says the state’s seasonally adjusted unemployment rate in June was a record low 3.8 percent and the number of employed, which was just over two-million, also set an all-time record. Louisiana Workforce Commission Secretary Ava Cates says the state’s workforce continues to grow….

Cut 4 (09)  “…good news”

Cates says the manufacturing sector is hiring as they’ve added nearly seven thousand jobs over the last year…

Cut 5 (07) “…be strong”

Cates says they are also no longer seeing a big decline in mining and logging jobs, which includes the oil and gas industry. But while the number employed has set an all-time record, Cates says the state still has over 25-thousand jobs available on the Louisiana-works-dot-net-slash hire website

Cut 6 (10)  “…as well.”

_______________________________________________

Researchers at Tulane University say a new study pinpoints the Wuhan Market as the origin of COVID-19. Tulane professor of microbiology & immunology Dr. Robert Garry says the conclusion came after extensive examination of thousands of DNA samples collected and other important data. He says they were able to identify some of the very first persons to contract the SARS-CoV-2 virus…:

Cut 7 (10) “…this uhhh Wuhan Market.”

The Wuhan Market is a huge complex in Wuhan China, where hundreds work in close quarters with one-another; handling any number of live animals including bats. Dr. Garry says a great many of the original cases of COVID were among people who worked around these animals. He says the virus “jumped” from the host animals to humans…:

Cut 8 (11)  “…happened this time.”

There are still many who believe the virus came from the nearby Wuhan Lab, which does expensive research with viruses, either by accident or intentionally. Dr. Garry feels this a conspiracy theory that the research simply doesn’t support…:

Cut 9 (12)  “…from this uhhh market.”

________________________________________________

Renowned cancer researcher Dr. Joe Ramos has been named director of the Louisiana Cancer Research Center in New Orleans. Ramos who is currently the interim director of the University of Hawaii Cancer Center says he’s looking forward to making an impact in Louisiana with his 30 years of experience.

Cut 10 (09) “…very attractive.”

Ramos says his background with a National Cancer Institute facility gives him a better understanding of cancer, and how it affects neighborhoods and communities. He says it’s that knowledge that will enable him to make a measurable impact in Louisiana.

Cut  11 (08)  “…unfortunately.” 

In addition to helping address cancer disparities in Louisiana Ramos says the team approach of multiple research institutions like Tulane, LSU, Ochsner, and Xavier working together also attracted him to the position. He believes this approach along with his guidance will help reduce cancer rates in Louisiana.

Cut 12 (10) “…get it done.” 

The Louisiana Cancer Research Center serves as a collaborative hub to advance cancer research, improve prevention, and innovative treatment.

_________________________________________________

A 65-year-old Golden Meadow man faces video voyeurism charges after a woman discovered a camera in her bedroom. Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office Captain Brennan Matherne says Golden Meadow Police asked them to assist and when they looked at the camera’s memory card, they found nude photos of the victim.

Cut 13 (08) “…the time.”

When questioned about the cameras, Matherne says Ricky Cheramie admitted he installed them in the victim’s home and…

Cut 14 (10)  “…his phone.”

Cheramie initially told investigators the cameras were to monitor who was going in and out of rooms in the home. But Matherne says the suspect’s story later changed.

Cut 15 (07)  “…any clothing.”

Ricky Cheramie was arrested and booked into the Lafourche Parish Correctional Complex with a bail of $10,000.

Ironically Matherne says it was approximately a month ago that they arrested another individual for the same offense with the same last name, 37-year-old Chase Cheramie. The two suspects and incidents are unrelated.

_______________________________________________

The Saints hit the practice field today looking to return to the playoffs after missing the postseason last season. Wide receiver Michael Thomas is still not ready to practice with the team after missing all of last season because of ankle surgery. General Manager Mickey Loomis doesn’t expect Thomas to spend a lot of time on the physically unable to perform list

Cut 16 (05)  “…very long”

Loomis says it remains to be seen what happens with running back Alvin Kamara, who faces a felony battery charge after security cameras showed him in a fight at a Las Vegas hotel in February. His next court hearing is August 1st. Meanwhile, the Saints signed veteran running back Malcolm Brown who has rushed for 13-hundred yards in 77 NFL games. Loomis says Brown’s signing is not in response to losing Kamara to a suspension

Cut 17 (20) “…part of it.” 

First year Saints head coach Dennis Allen says training camp to the casual observer will not look much different than what it did under Sean Payton. And Allen says he’s also planning to play Taysom Hill at multiple positions, just like he did under Payton….

Cut 18 (28) “ …football games” 

Safety Tyrann Mathieu has been excused from the beginning of training camp to handle a personal family matter. Allen is expecting a big season from the Honey Badger and he says free-agent addition Marcus Maye is expected to practice today after tearing his achilles last November

Cut 19 (29) _“…that room” 

According to Triple-A close to two-thirds of motorists have made lifestyle changes due to prices at the pump. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

______________________________________

When qualifying for fall elections was over last week, two U.S. House district races had no Democrat entered. Kevin Gallagher looks at why…?

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”  

______________________________________

Motorists have been making significant changes in their driving habits to combat high gas prices, that’s according to a Triple-A survey. Spokesperson Don Redman says almost two-thirds of drivers are changing their driving routines and the top three behaviors they’ve altered are…

Cut 3 (09) “…the economy” 

Even though the statewide average for a gallon of regular gas has dropped to $3.92, down 53 cents from a month ago, Redman says the changes in driving habits will most likely continue.

Cut 4  (10) “…the winter.”

In addition to driving less, combining errands, and reducing shopping and dining out, Redman says many are forgoing vacations. Even though there was pent-up demand for vacations earlier in the year, Redman says many people are reconsidering additional travel.

Cut 5  (10) “…expenditures.”

Other habits motorists have changed are carpooling, driving a more fuel-efficient vehicle, and use of public transportation.

_____________________________________________

Qualifying for the fall federal midterm elections ended last week with no Democrat candidate in two congressional district races. Why? LSU political science professor Robert Hogan says District 4’s Mike Johnson was just re-elected, having drawn NO opponent – democrat or otherwise. In District 6, Garret Graves has two challengers; a republican and a libertarian. Hogan says those are both VERY conservative districts…:

Cut 6 (07) “…are very low.” 

Hogan feels Louisiana has gerrymandered the districts to assure GOP dominance in all but one; the state’s mandated majority-minority District 2. However, he says the Representatives in D4 and D6 have worked hard for the folks back home…:

Cut 7 (13) “…constituents satisfied.” 

Hogan says very few well-known Louisiana democrats sought to run for Congress. Many are relative unknowns. He says this isn’t good for the Democrats’ future endeavors…:

Cut 8 (09) “…in the 2023 elections.”

________________________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services has received approval to expand pandemic benefits for eligible K-12 students to help cover the cost of food for the summer. Assistant Secretary for Family Support Shavana Howard says it’s part of the USDA’s summer program.

Cut 9 (05) “…separate installments.”

She says of 575-thousand eligible families, they should be on the look for those two separate installments, the majority being issued in the autumn months and about 18 thousand will receive those benefits in the next two weeks.

Howard says students who received free or reduced-price meals and were in school in May of 2022, won’t have to apply for summer P-EBT benefits.

Cut 10 (06) “…the benefits.” 

For those who did not receive benefits in May, Howard says they would need to apply by this Friday, July 29^th. That website is pebtla-dot-org. In addition to an application, the website has more information about the program…

Cut 11 (05)  “…p-ebt card.”

_________________________________________________

130-million dollars will be used from the America Rescue Plan to bring more affordable and accessible internet to over 66-thousand households and small businesses in 50 parishes. Director of the Office of Broadband Development and Connectivity Veneeth Iyengar says internet service providers will use this federal money to boost high speed internet in rural areas….

Cut 12 (12) “…throughout the state”   

Iyengar says,  to find out if your parish will benefit from this money, go to connect-dot-la-dot-gov

Cut 13 (12) “…made yesterday.”

Iyengar says they expect to issue another 43-million dollars from the America Rescue Plan by October and they’ll also be able to tap into federal dollars contained in the Infrastructure Bill. He says the goal is to eliminate the digital divide in Louisiana by 2029….

Cut 14 (07)  “…spent wisely.” 

Though he has two challengers for his next term in office, District 1 Congressman Steve Scalise says he’s focused on what comes AFTER Election Day…:

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

________________________________________________

 As high power bills are crippling many residents, District 4 Public Service Commissioner Mike Francis, who’s seeking re-election, says the commission is trying to help consumers.

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

________________________________________________

LSU’s basketball arena is already named after the great Pete Maravich and after tonight there will also be a statue of Pistol Pete next to the PMAC. Michelle southern has more…

Cut 3 (32) “…I’mMichelle Southern.”

___________________________________________________

Although Louisiana District 1 Congressman Steve Scalise has two challengers for the November 8^th Congressional primary, he is focused on the future of the House, his party and the country. At qualifying for the election, Scalise said he feels a number of House Democrats may lose their seats, because what’s important for them is NOT what the American people want…:

Cut 4 (12)  “…fed up with it.”

Scalise is challenged for his next term by Democrat Katie Darling, a Covington area business woman and Howard Kearney, an Independent from Mandeville. Scalise says there’s a good chance the GOP could retake majority in the U.S House; largely because of the poor performance of the current leadership and President Biden’s sinking approval rating – even among his own party…:

Cut 5 (09) “…far left agenda.”

Scalise says, if Republican regain majority, he’ll work to ensure parents’ rights in the kids’ education, a return to law & order and a sensible “all of the above” approach to energy production. He says a GOP majority House will work to make life less difficult for taxpayers…:

Cut 6 (10)  “…struggling right now.”

Political analysts mostly agree that Scalise is very likely to win another term in November, or a possible December runoff.

_______________________________________________

As many Louisianans are plagued with high energy bills District 4 Public Service Commissioner Mike Francis will face two opponents in his bid for a second six-year term. Francis says he’s often asked what he can do to help lower power bills and hurricane restoration charges.

Cut 7 (12) “…reasonable.”

Francis says the PSC can only do so much when it comes to regulating private energy companies that also have to pay stockholders dividends.

Cut 8 (13)  “…those shares.”

Entergy says 2020 hurricane restoration efforts in Louisiana totaled $4.1 billion and that cost will be paid for by customers over a 15-year period. Francis says the commission has asked the utility provider to pay for even a portion of those charges.

Cut 9 (08)  “…like that.”

Francis will face Keith C. Bodin of Ragley who is running as an independent and Republican Shalon Latour of Iowa in November.

________________________________________________

Republican Congressman Garret Graves will face two challengers in his bid for re-election for the 6^th Congressional District. Graves believes the GOP is poised to gain control of Congress in the mid-terms, and he’s been asked by House leadership to lead the Republican’s policy on Energy, Climate, and Conservation.

Cut 10 (11) “…facing today.”

And In his first venture into politics, Brian Belzer of Prairieville says he’s fed up with what’s going on in DC and wants to help common-sense legislation that’s being ignored. When the Republican diesel mechanic was asked about his views on abortion, he says he’s pro-life…

Cut  11 (12)  “…incest.” 

In addition to rallying for conservation efforts in DC, Graves says the construction of a new Mississippi River bridge in his home district of Baton Rouge is long overdue.

Cut 12 (12) “…political decision.” 

The third candidate for the 6^th Congressional District is Libertarian Rufus Craig, Jr. of Baton Rouge.

_________________________________________________

LSU will unveil a statue of Pete Maravich tonight next to the statues of other LSU basketball legends, Shaquille O’ Neal and Bob Petit. Pistol Pete is the all-time scoring leader in NCAA Division One College Basketball and LSU’s Chief Brand Officer Cody Worsham says he’s one of the best to ever play the game…

Cut 13 (08) “…we’re excited.”

LSU Board of Supervisors voted in 2016 to erect a statue of Maravich and in 2019 the LSU Athletic Hall of Fame Committee changed a rule to allow for non-graduates to have a statue. Worsham says Maravich’s contributions to the game and the university are worth hundreds of statues…

Cut 14 (14)  “…at LSU”

There will be a ceremony inside the LSU practice facility at 6 PM and then the unveiling of the statue after 6:30 in the plaza of the LSU Basketball Practice facility which is connected to the PMAC. Worsham says members of Maravich’s family will be on hand along with some of the great players of LSU’s basketball past…

Cut 15 (13)  “… of that program”

Governor John Bel Edwards’ plan to send the most violent inmates from the troubled Bridge City Center for Youth to Angola state prison comes under fire. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

______________________________________

Congresswoman Julia Letlow will face opposition in November as she seeks re-election to her second term in the 5^th Congressional District. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

______________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards’ plan to send the most violent inmates from the troubled Bridge City Center for Youth to Angola state prison is coming under fire. The juvenile jail has had four violent escapes so far this year. Among critics of the plan is Loyola University professor of law Hector Linares (lih-NAR es) says it seems like a bad decision, and a possible violation of federal law…:

Cut 3 (12) “…with adult prisons.” 

The Governor and Department of Corrections say the juvenile inmates will be segregated from the adult population at Angola. Linares says federal law dictates under those circumstances juveniles and adults must not see or hear each other, and perhaps that hasn’t been considered…:

Cut 4  (09) “…also be illegal.”

He wonders if segregated dining and medical infirmary accommodations have been taken into account.

Other critics of the plan say it unfairly punishes people of color. A small crowd gathered Thursday night outside the Bridge City Center to protest moving detainees to Angola. Linares says, if state officials sought a quick fix for problems at the center, this was not a good choice. He suggests moving the LEAST violent detainees to lower-security facilities, rather than this option…:

Cut 5  (10) “…higher needs youth.”

_____________________________________________

The Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority has finished its  largest barrier island restoration project, with the completion of the Terrebonne Basin Barrier Islands. The project restored one-thousand acres of barrier island habitat. Project manager April Newman says these islands will provide storm surge protection

Cut 6 (12) “…fragile wetlands.” 

The 166-million dollar project used funds from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Newman says the barrier islands will help reduce storm surge and flooding for the mainland….

Cut 7 (10) “…the communities.” 

Newman says the project utilized nearly nine million cubic yards of dredged sediment…

Cut 8 (12) “..persevered”

Newman says one of the islands, Trinity East Island, held up well to Hurricane Ida’s Category Four winds.

________________________________________________

The media picks LSU football to finish in fifth place in the highly competitive SEC West. As expected Alabama is the preseason favorite. The projected order following the Crimson Tide is Texas A-and-M, Arkansas, Ole Miss and LSU. Tiger Rag Editor Tim Buckley says there are a lot of question marks with this group of Tigers…

Cut 9 (10) “…question marks.”

Buckley says LSU’s ranking is the result of not having an established starter at quarterback, the offensive line is inexperienced, unproven running backs and only one established player at wide receiver…..

Cut 10 (08) “…preseason teams” 

LSU wide receiver Kayshon Boutte is a preseason All-SEC first team selection and edge rusher B-J Ojulari is also a first-team pick. Buckley says the media that covers the SEC looks at LSU as being a year or two away from really competing in college football’s toughest division

Cut 11 (06)  “…get it done”

_________________________________________________

Congresswoman Julia Letlow qualified Friday to run for re-election. The first Republican female to represent the state in Congress touted her accomplishments in her first term and also spoke of the importance of her appointment to the House Appropriations Committee and what it means to the 5^th Congressional District.

Cut 12 (12) “…next year.”   

Hunter Pullen who served in the Marines is Letlow’s lone challenger. The West Monroe Republican says after having to wait months for medical care from the VA, he was inspired to continue his service to the country.

Cut 13 (11) “…concerns are.”

Letlow also spoke of her Parent’s Bill of Rights legislation which gives parents the ability to be more informed of their child’s curriculum and notification of violent activity at school. Letlow was asked about her feelings on gun reform efforts after recent school shootings.

Cut 14 (07)  “…to bear arms.” 

Pullen spoke of two occasions where the VA forced him to wait for an extended period of time for both initial appointments and follow-up care. He says veterans are forced to trust the government for their healthcare. Pullen says experienced a significant delay in cancer treatment.

Cut 15 (09) “…operation.”