Oil & Gas Industry leaders are calling on President Joe Biden to look inward for solutions to record-high gas prices. David Grubb has more…

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m David Grubb.”

______________________________________

A class action lawsuit against homebuilder D.R. Horton alleges the company is not building homes to properly withstand the heat and humidity in Louisiana. Brooke Thorington explains.

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

______________________________________

After receiving a tip, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries cites 40-year-old Caleb Hudson of Breaux Bridge for illegal possession of two venomous and restricted snakes. Adam Einck with LDWF says agents found two snakes in plastic totes inside Hudson’s home.

Cut 3 (05) “…his possession.”

Einck says copperheads are on the list of restricted snakes in Louisiana and being in possession of venomous and restricted snakes can be costly.

Cut 4  (10) “…as well.”

As for the two snakes, they’ll remain in the state, Einck says agents seized the copperheads and donated them to two separate zoos in Louisiana.

Cut 5  (05) “…Alexandria Zoo.”

____________________________________________

Dozens of leaders within the oil and gas industry have signed off on a letter to President Joe Biden, urging him to visit domestic energy facilities prior to a scheduled visit to Saudi Arabia next month. Tommy Faucheux, president of the Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil & Gas Association says that before the President considers asking other nations to increase their production, he’d like him to take a closer look at how to do so here at home.

Cut 6 (09) ” …energy companies.” 

Faucheux says that he understands the White House’s commitment to reducing fossil fuel emissions, however, he believes that the goals of reducing emissions and producing enough energy for American families can both be accomplished.

Cut 7 (11) “…or the other.” 

Oil & Gas industry leaders say they would like to see a shift in policy from President Biden and the Department of the Interior that addresses the current problems in production as well as prepares the US for the future.

Cut 8 (12) “…carbon emissions.”

________________________________________________

A class-action lawsuit against homebuilder D.R. Horton alleges the company is not building homes to properly withstand the heat and humidity in Louisiana. Attorney Lance Unglesby says after receiving calls from several homeowners they had experts inspect the homes and they found high humidity levels.

Cut 9 (09) “…grow mold.”

Unglesby says the homes do not have proper ventilation in the attic and their HVAC systems are unable to handle the excessive humidity.

James Brown the attorney representing D. R. Horton denies the allegations their homes are not built properly. Brown says D-R Horton homes meet all the state building codes and are properly inspected throughout the construction process.

Cut 10 (09) “…warranty act.” 

When asked how many homeowners had used the warranty in Louisiana, Brown said he did not have that information.

D. R. Horton issued a statement saying, “The health and safety of our homeowners is a top priority, and D.R. Horton is committed to superior customer service and building quality homes.” Unglesby says photos prove otherwise and the homebuilder should defend their case in court and not hide it in arbitration.

Cut 11 (11)  “…feel better.” 

Brown says there’s a clear arbitration clause in the purchase of a D. R. Horton home and the process is more expedient and he disagrees with Unglesby claim the homebuilder is trying to hide behind arbitration.

Cut 12 (12) “…a lot cheaper.”  

A hearing is set for August 1^st to decide if the matter will go to court or arbitration.

______________________________________________________________

Minden Mayor Terry Gardner passed away today at the age of 68 after a battle with cancer. Gardner publicly announced on May 24th he had pancreatic cancer and it also spread to his liver. Minden Councilwoman Pam Bloxom says Mayor Gardner was the ultimate supporter of Minden…

Cut 13 (05) “…Terry Gardner.”

Mayor Gardner was in his first term as he took office in January of 2019. Bloxom says he worked at getting Minden on firm financial ground, worked hand-in-hand with small business owners and the former landscaper also worked to improve Minden’s appearance…

Cut 14 (11)  “…spotlessly clean” 

Gardner was seeking re-election and Bloxom says he’ll be missed

Cut 15 (08) “…to fill” 

The National Hurricane Center is tracking three systems that COULD become tropical cyclones. More from Jeff Palermo…:

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

______________________________________

A New Orleans judge issues a temporary restraining order on Louisiana’s abortion trigger laws, thus allowing them to continue until a July 8^th court date. Brooke Thorington has more

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

______________________________________

Three people died Sunday morning in a two-vehicle crash in Lafourche Parish on Louisiana Highway 308 in Lockport. State Police Trooper Ross Brennan says one of victims is from southwest Louisiana

Cut 3 (10) “…head on.”

47-year-old Grant Gremillion of Sulphur was pronounced dead at the scene. Brennan says 44-year-old Ramiro Pineda-Perez of Berwick and 38-year-old Alexander Vigil of Morgan City also died instantly in the crash, they were in vehicle struck by Gremillion’s pickup truck.

Cut 4  (10) “…fatal injuries.”

____________________________________________

There are many people in Louisiana happy for Ole Miss head coach Mike Bianco. His Rebels won the College World Series yesterday with a four to two win over Oklahoma. Bianco is a former LSU player, assistant coach and a former head coach at McNeese. It took him 22 seasons at Ole Miss to finally win a national title

Cut 5  (10) “…been through.”

Bianco was on the hot seat a month ago as the Rebels finished ninth in the SEC, two games under .500 in conference play. Ole Miss barely made the NCAA Tournament but they went on a remarkable run to win the school’s first men’s national championship. Bianco says he’s more happy for his players…

Cut 6 (11) ” ….life lessons here” 

Bianco was a captain on the Tigers 1989 College World Series team and was an assistant for LSU when they won three titles from 1993 to 1997. Many wondered if he would ever win a national championship at Ole Miss, he ended up providing the doubters wrong…

Cut 7 (10) “…accomplish anything” 

________________________________________________

The National Hurricane Center website is now tracking three tropical waves; one in the Gulf and two in the western Atlantic. State Climatologist Barry Keim says the system in the Gulf is stalled not far off the Louisiana coast, but has a small chance of developing into a tropical storm…:

Cut 8 (09) “…Brownsville, Texas area.”

A second system is located off the northeastern coast of Venezuela, and Keim says it has a 90-percent chance of developing into a tropical cyclone within the next 5 days. Keim says, even so, that system should remain in the Caribbean or southern Gulf; making landfall in Belize or the Yucatan Peninsula, and tracking west…:

Cut 9 (08) “…lots can change.”

The third system is out there; also northeast of Venezuela…but Keim says it has only a slight chance of developing into something to be concerned with…:

Cut 10 (07) “…five to seven days.” 

______________________________________________________________

Natchitoches Police are investigating a University Parkway double homicide that happened early Saturday morning. NPD spokesperson Corporal John Greely says when officers arrived, they found 21-yearold Marquis Evans, 23-year-old Daniel Williams and a third person with gunshot wounds. Greely says Williams and the third victim were at a gas pump when they were approached by Evans.

Cut 11 (11)  “…on the scene.” 

Evans was pronounced dead on the scene and Williams later died at a local hospital. The third shooting victim is listed in stable condition.

Greely says it appears that all parties involved did know each other and the investigation remains active

Cut 12 (09) “…$2,000.”  

_______________________________________________________________

A New Orleans judge issues a temporary restraining order barring the enforcement of the state’s trigger law banning abortion. In the meantime Hope Medical Group for Women in Shreveport says they will resume service tomorrow. Loyola University law professor Dan Ciolino says the restraining only adds uncertainty about abortions in Louisiana.

Cut 13 (12) “…into effect.”

Ciolino says the case raises the issue of unconstitutional vagueness, unconstitutional lack of notice to the public about effective dates and the provisions of the abortion law. Ciolino says he believes it will be litigated for some time.

Cut 14 (12)  “…regulate abortion.” 

In the meantime, a hearing on the temporary restraining order is set for July 8^th. However, Ciolino says if the court rules the triggers laws are unconstitutionally vague or deficient then he believes lawmakers will return to Baton Rouge.

Cut 15 (07) “…in effect.” 

The Center for Reproductive Rights filed the restraining order on behalf of the hope Medical Group for Women, Hope’s Administrator Kathaleen Pittman, and Medical Students for Choice.

Co-founder of an advocacy group for the health and wellbeing of women says the inability to have an abortion in Louisiana will have rippling effects. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

________________________________________________

Lt. Governor Bill Nungesser is in Alaska for the annual meeting of the Aerospace States Association. More on that from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

________________________________________________

For the past 45 years, Louisiana adults over the age of 24 have been denied access to their original birth certificates, but that ends on Aug. 1. David Grubb has the story…

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m David Grubb.” 

________________________________________________

The co-founder of Lift Louisiana, an advocacy group for the health and wellbeing of women, says the reversal of Roe vs Wade will heavily impact those who don’t have the means to travel to states that permit abortions. And Michelle Erenberg says state lawmakers have done nothing to assist those individuals either.

Cut 4 (11)  “…this time.”

Erenberg says without access to safe and legal abortions in Louisiana the state will see more women and children living in poverty.

Cut 5 (12) “…rippling impacts.”

She believes it will only worsen the state’s maternal mortality rate which is already third in the nation and lead to an increase in deaths among Black women who already suffer from pregnancy related complication four times greater than white women.

Despite the ruling Erenberg says Lift Louisiana will continue to fight for abortion access and support those who may be criminalized for self-managing their own abortions and those who help people seek abortions.

Cut 6 (07)  “…and rights.”

For more information visit LiftLouisiana.org

_____________________________________________

Walmart employees who receive medical coverage in Louisiana now have access to doula services. Doula Program Lead for Walmart Nancy Jester says last year they launched a pilot program in Georgia and due to its success, they’ve expanded the benefit in three other states including Louisiana.

Cut 7 (09) “…birthing mothers.”

Doulas provide continuous emotional, physical, and informational support to mothers before, during, and after childbirth. Jester says mothers who have used the program give it positive reviews.

Cut 8 (10)  “…their outcome.”

Louisiana is second in the nation behind Mississippi for the highest infant mortality rate.

Jester says Walmart is absolutely committed to helping their associates have healthy pregnancies and healthy babies and believes providing such a service will recruit future employees..

Cut 9 (10)  “…other employers.”

In addition to Louisiana, doula services for Walmart associates are also available in Indiana and Illinois.

____________________________________________

Lt. Governor Bill Nungesser is in Alaska for the annual meeting of the Aerospace States Association. Fifteen states with connections to the aerospace industry are represented at the conference, starting today at the Pacific Space Port Complex on Kodiak Island. Members of the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness are also there and Nungesser says he was one of only handful of state Lt. Governors invited…:

Cut 10 (08) “…opportunities for Louisiana.”

The Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans is Louisiana’s contribution to the aerospace industry. Nungesser says conference attendees will discuss workforce development, public-private partnerships in aerospace and optimal uses of aerospace facilities, and how they can be applied to other endeavors…:

Cut  11 (11)  “…in their states.” 

Nungesser says discussions will also include weather & climate, wildfire fighting technology and more…plus a keynote address from NASA astronaut Harrison Schmitt. He says information exchanged should go well beyond rockets and space exploration…:

Cut 12 (07) “…play a part in this.” 

The conference starts today runs through Wednesday.

____________________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards has signed House Bill 450 into law, which will allow adopted people in the state to obtain copies of their original birth certificates once they reach the age of 24. The legislation was sponsored by Rosepine Representative Charles Owen, and after lots of discussions, it passed through both houses overwhelmingly…

Cut 13 (09) “…1977.”

Since 1977, state law had required an adopted person to get an attorney, appear before a judge, and then justify the reason for needing their birth certificate. Owen says the barriers for any individual to find out about themselves were just something he had to attempt to take down.

Cut 14 (12)  “…it was wrong”

Owen says it was an incredibly difficult decision, considering the opposition he faced from groups who argued the bill would discourage women from giving babies up for adoption. To him, the legislation is about fairness and he has gotten tremendous feedback from those who now have an answer to the question, “where do I come from?”

Cut 15 (09)  “…signed this.”

Under previous law, adopted people were the only Louisiana residents denied the right to access their original birth certificates. The new law goes into effect on Aug. 1.

________________________________________

LSU’s Myles Brennan was one of several college quarterbacks at this weekend’s Manning Passing Academy on the campus of Nicholls State in Thibodaux. Brennan is preparing for sixth season at LSU and says he never thought his college career would take the winding road that it has…

Cut 16 (17)  “…what’s ahead.”

When preseason camp starts in August, Brennan will battle with Arizona State transfer Jayden Daniels and redshirt freshman Garrett Nussmeier to be the starter in 2022. Brennan has big goals for his final season at LSU…

Cut 17 (17) “ …I can” 

Brennan admits it has been a big transition from the Ed Orgeron coaching staff to new head coach Brian Kelly…

Cut 18 (12) “ …fired up” 

______________________________________________

The nation’s top high school football recruit for the Class 2023, Newman quarterback Arch Manning, ended speculation on his college choice when he committed to Texas last week. His uncle, Peyton Manning, gave his nephew some advice…

Cut 19 (17) _“…when you know, you know.” 

Arch Manning announced his verbal commitment with a six-word Tweet on Twitter. Peyton Manning liked how Arch publicized his commitment…

Cut 20 (12) “ …in high school” 

The US Supreme Court reversal on abortion is an emotional one on both sides of the issue. Brooke Thorington has more on ruling the closer to home.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

______________________________________

LSU women’s basketball has received a verbal commitment from the top player in the nation. David Grubb has more…

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m David Grubb.”  

______________________________________

Abortions are now illegal in Louisiana as a result of the U-S Supreme Court’s historic decision that overturned the Roe versus Wade ruling made nearly 50 years ago that guaranteed a women’s right to terminate their pregnancies. USA Today Network reporter Greg Hilburn says the governor recently signed a law that would ban abortions in this state if the nation’s highest court struck down Roe v Wade….

Cut 3 (07) “…or incest.”

Hilburn says the only real exception is to save the life of the pregnant woman

Cut 4  (06) “…like that.”

Other exceptions include if its ectopic pregnancy or if the child can not live outside the womb.

Hilburn says doctors or others who assist in an abortion face up to 10 years in prison and if it’s a late term abortion the sentence could be as much as 15 years…

Cut 5  (07) “…last week.”

___________________________________________________

Today’s reversal of Roe v Wade is an emotional one for both sides of the abortion issue.  President of the Louisiana Family Forum, and pro-life advocate Gene Mills says Louisianan’s trigger laws essentially closes the state’s three abortion clinics.

Cut 6 (12) “…post Roe Louisiana.” 

New Orleans Representative Aimee Freeman who is pro-choice, says the ruling is a major setback for women’s rights and will have devastating consequences.

Cut 7 (12) “…our country.” 

Recent legislation passed in Louisiana can hold a physician liable should they assist a woman with miscarriage and Freeman fears this will keep some medical providers from treating some women out of fear of criminal charges.

While abortion rights activists say the ruling reduces women’s options when it comes to their health and future, Mills however feels differently.

Cut 8 (12) “…in Louisiana.” 

Freeman says she worries for the future of her two daughters and recalls stories her mother shared with her before abortion was legalized in the US.

Cut 9 (09) “…moving to?”

Due to trigger laws in 26 states, today ruling effectively outlaws abortions in half of the country.

________________________________________________

LSU President William Tate is touting a 27-million dollar donation from Shell USA, the largest gift from a for-profit partner in the university’s history. Tate says the funds will establish the LSU Institute for Energy Innovation, dedicated to advancing reliable, affordable, and environmentally responsible energy.

Cut 10 (12) ” …and solutions.” 

Tate says Shell is the founding partner of the LSU Institute for Energy Innovation and that its commitment extends beyond the scientific mission of the institute and into the growth of Louisiana’s workforce as well.

Cut 11 (12)  “…energy industry.” 

Tate shared much of the credit for the partnership coming together with leaders in the state legislature, which allocated funds for the Pentagon initiatives during the session. He says that commitment made LSU more attractive to corporate entities like Shell and believes this merging of scholarship and workforce development is the first of many as other companies realize the university’s potential.

Cut 12 (11) “…really big time.”  

_________________________________________________________________

Louisiana is in an early summer heat wave of record proportions. Weather stations across the state report record-setting and record-breaking high temperatures. State Climatologist Barry Keim says scorching weather is here for the next few days, at least…:

Cut 13 (10) “…100 and 110.”

Keim says warm, moist air from the Gulf is colliding with hot, dry air over Louisiana; a combination that means clear skies and unrelenting sun…:

Cut 14 (09)  “…cool things down.” 

Many parts of Louisiana are in drought conditions and several parishes have enacted outdoor burn bans because of it. Keim says, not to worry, the parching heat can’t go on forever…:

Cut 15 (13) “…we see every summer.” 

U-S Senator Bill Cassidy is one of 15 Republican Senators to vote for a gun control bill last night that passed the U-S Senate on a 65-33 vote. Kevin Gallagher spoke with Senator Cassidy prior to the vote….

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

____________________________________

To address the ongoing teacher shortage lawmakers passed a few bills, including a pay raise but one advocacy group says more can still be done. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

_____________________________________

Carbon monoxide poisoning is an unseen danger, particularly during hurricane season. A new law seeks to lessen the risk for families across the state.

Cut 3 (37) “…I’m David Grubb.” 

________________________________________________

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy was one of 15 Republican lawmakers to vote for a new gun control bill last night that received approval in the Senate. Cassidy says, despite what critics say, it is good legislation. The bill was introduced after the massacre at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. He says the measure includes more stringent background checks for gun buyers, and will also take steps to make schools safer…:

Cut 4 (09)  “…access to mental health.”

Cassidy says if the bill had been passed before Uvalde the tragedy may have been prevented, because the bill will allow a background check to include one’s record of juvenile offenses. He says current law doesn’t do this…:

Cut 5 (12) “…those records are sealed.”

Cassidy says no one with a clean criminal record need worry this bill threatens their Second Amendment rights.

He says the bipartisan legislation will help make schools harder for intruders to infiltrate. He says the mental health portion of the bill will not only help with potentially violent kids, it will also benefit kids who may be thinking of hurting themselves. Cassidy says any reasonable thinking person would see the good in the legislation…:

Cut 6 (09)  “…they are wrong.”

Louisiana’s junior U-S Senator John Kennedy voted against the bill.

_____________________________________________

Lawmakers passed several bills to help address the ongoing teacher shortage in the regular session this year. Barry Erwin President of the Council for a Better Louisiana says he wishes teachers had been given a larger pay raise but he’s hopeful a college scholarship program will foster students to enter the profession.

Cut 7 (07) “…some of the bills.”

And the legislature changed measures to allow retired teachers to return to the classroom and they are still able to collect retirement.

Erwin says the teacher shortage is real and there are more things that can be done, for example, remove the red tape educators have to deal with on a regular basis. He also believes we need more programs to attract high school students to enter the field.

Cut 8 (10)  “…in high school.”

Another issue Erwin says facing the teaching profession is the growing political mindset to vilify educators and accusations of indoctrinating children.

Cut 9 (12)  “…teaching as a profession.”

Erwin says mentoring programs have also been helpful in recruiting more young people to choose teaching as a career.

____________________________________________

According to WalletHub Louisiana is ranked fourth in the nation as the best state for a summer road trip. WalletHub analyst Jill Gonzales says the ranking looked at the most fun, scenic, and wallet-friendly road trip destinations.

Cut 10 (12) “…roadtrip destination.”

Gonzales says when it comes to cost the Bayou State ranked second in the nation on road trips.

Cut  11 (12)  “…right now.” 

She says one way to save money on road trips is the use an app like GasBuddy to find the best price on gas and to also book your hotels directly through a chain’s website or app.

And WalletHub says Louisiana ranked first in the nation in their summer road trip survey when it comes to driving laws. Gonzales says when it comes to driving laws Louisiana is a bit on the strict side.

Cut 12 (10) “…a state.” 

She also noted that Louisiana however did not rank well when it comes to the quality of roads and bridges

New York topped the list followed by Minnesota and Texas.

____________________________________________

Governor Edwards has signed House Bill 293 into law. Proposed by Metairie Representative Stephanie Hilferty, it requires carbon monoxide detectors in all one or two-family homes sold or leased. It also requires any home with a generator installed to have a detector as well. Hilferty says a carbon monoxide detector likely saved the lives of her family during Hurricane Ida.

Cut 13 (10) “…would have happened.”

Hilferty worked closely with former State Fire Marshal, and current director of the National Association of State Fire Marshals, Butch Browning in crafting the language of the legislation. Both see the bill as an important and evolutionary step for the state in making homes safer.

Cut 14 (09)  “…of the code.”

Four people in Louisiana died and nearly 150 made trips to the emergency room due to carbon monoxide poisoning during and after Hurricane Ida. Hilferty says that the low cost of purchasing a carbon monoxide detector for your home is far outweighed by the added layer of protection for you and your loved ones.

Cut 15 (08)  “…can save lives.”

The new law goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2023.

________________________________________

As predicted by many, the New Orleans Pelicans selected 6-7 guard Dyson Daniels out of Australia with the eighth pick in the NBA Draft. Daniels says he’s excited to join the Pelicans and ready to get to work.

Cut 16 (12)  “…this is crazy.”

Daniels spent last season playing for the NBA’s G-League Ignite squad, where he averaged 11 points, six rebounds, four assists, and two steals per game. He credits his experience in the G-League with getting him into the lottery and onto the Pelicans.

Cut 17 (19) “ …for sure.” 

LSU forward Tari Eason won’t be moving too far from Baton Rouge. Eason was taken by the Houston Rockets with the 17th overall selection. Eason was known for his scoring with the Tigers, but says he takes pride in shutting people down, too.

Cut 18 (12) “ …as a player.” 

An attorney for nursing home operator Bob Dean responds to the criminal charges his client is now facing as a result of last year’s botched hurricane evacuation plan. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Conservative Caucus is calling for the Louisiana Legislature to hold a veto override session. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

______________________________________

Nursing homeowner Bob Dean is facing criminal charges for the 2021 evacuation of seven of his facilities to a Tangipahoa Parish warehouse during Hurricane Ida. More than a dozen patients died shortly afterward. Among the charges is cruelty to the infirm and Dean’s attorney John McLindon says his client was unable to travel to Louisiana due to the storm.

Cut 3 (07) “…a look at it.”

An attorney representing Dean against civil charges said the 68-year-old businessman is unable to travel due to dementia but McLindon would only say Dean’s health is an issue.

In addition to eight felony counts of cruelty to the infirm, Dean is also charged with five counts of Medicaid Fraud and two counts of obstruction of justice. McLindon says his client posted bond and has returned to his home in Georgia, but Dean has been ordered to return to Louisiana for court.

Cut 4  (08) “…court appearance.”

McLindon says during the evacuation employees of Dean did the best they could under the circumstances and the warehouse was not in the original predicted path of Ida. He says Dean and his employees were simply following the approved Louisiana Department of Health emergency plan.

Cut 5  (05) “…was fine.”

The Tangipahoa Paris Sheriff’s Office says Dean’s $350,000 bail conditions include an ankle monitor, surrender of his firearms and passport, and a mental evaluation. Dean is also facing criminal charges in Georgia after firing a weapon on another person’s property in which Dean lost his thumb.

___________________________________________________

Today marks 50 years since the signing of Title IX, which expanded athletic opportunities for females. Dr. Kiki Baker Barnes, a Minden native who went on to star in basketball at UNO, before serving as athletic director at Dillard University for almost 20 years, and is now commissioner of the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference, says she is a proud beneficiary of that legislation.

Cut 6 (12) “…one of those girls.” 

Prior to the passage of Title IX, only one percent of college athletic budgets went towards women’s sports. Though there has been tremendous progress, the overall playing field is still far from level. Dr. Barnes says political and educational leaders have to maintain a commitment to equality.

Cut 7 (12) “…in general, deserve.” 

Dr. Barnes has kept her end of the deal.  Earlier this year she was named one of the 100 Influential Black Women in Sports by Sports Illustrated and Empower Onyx for her work in mentoring other young women who are pursuing careers in athletics. She looks forward to an even brighter future for the next generation.

Cut 8 (10) “…part of life.” 

________________________________________________

The Louisiana Conservative Caucus, which is 42 members in the state House, is pushing for a veto override session. Governor Edwards vetoed 22 bills from the 2022 regular session and Caucus Chairman and Winnfield Representative Jack McFarland says there are several different proposals the governor rejected, which has lawmakers calling for a veto override session…

Cut 9 (08) “…education bills”

Lawmakers have until July 16th to decide whether they want to hold veto override session. Ballots will go out to lawmakers on July 1st.

McFarland says not only are Republican lawmakers upset the governor vetoed religious freedom and personally liberty bills, but so is the public….

Cut 10 (07) ” ..for it.” 

McFarland says conservative legislators are also looking to override the governor’s vetoes on criminal justice reform bills and the legislation that provided state-funded education options for certain students.

Cut 11 (11)  “…individually” 

A veto session is automatically scheduled after the regular session, it only takes a majority vote in either the House or Senate to cancel the veto session.

_________________________________________________________________

It’s National Hydration Day. Louisiana Department of Health’s Regional Medical Director for the Greater New Orleans area, Doctor Shantel Hebert-Magee, says drinking eight to ten glasses of water daily can do wonders for the human body…

Cut 12 (08) “…joint mobility.”  

Hydration will be the key through the weekend as Louisiana is facing several consecutive days of temperatures near 100-degrees. Hebert-Magee says staying hydrated helps regulate body temperature and it helps with electrolytes…

Cut 13 (09) “…heart disease issues.”

Hebert-Magee says there are some who don’t like the taste of water, but there’s ways to improve the taste…

Cut 14 (10)  “…provide flavor” 

After two years apart, the Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation reunites to celebrate 100 years of service this weekend. David Grubb has more.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m David Grubb.”

____________________________________

Entergy says the oppressive heat could translate into the highest power usage on record this week. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

_____________________________________

Louisiana nursing home owner Bob Dean faces criminal charges related to residents’ deaths that occurred in the days after Hurricane Ida. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

________________________________________________

The state’s largest general farm organization, The Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation, is holding its 100^th Annual Meeting and Centennial Celebration this weekend in New Orleans. This is the first time the meeting will be in-person since 2019, due to the pandemic. Communications director Avery Davidson says the federation is as strong as ever.

Cut 4 (13)  “…across the state.”

During the convention, Davidson says members will focus plenty of attention on the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill as the agriculture industry continues to deal with the high costs of fuel, the scarcity of fertilizer, and attempts to address disaster recovery here in Louisiana.

Cut 5 (11) “…in that debate.”

The Federation continues to grow in both size and influence. Davidson says over the past 50 years membership has increased from roughly 30 thousand to more than 136 thousand across the state. Further evidence of their clout is the number of political heavyweights that will be in attendance…

Cut 6 (13)  “…and they vote.”

_____________________________________________

The oppressive heat in Louisiana this week will be responsible for the highest power usage on record, that’s according to Entergy. Utility spokesperson David Freese says one way to save on your bill is to set your thermostat to 78 degrees.

Cut 7 (12) “…per the household.”

Freese says every degree below 78 can add three percent to your bill.

Heating and cooling can account for more than 50 percent of your power bill. Freese says there are some other steps besides adjusting your thermostat that you can take to help reduce usage. Like closing blinds and curtains to reduce sunlight in your home, closing vents in unoccupied rooms, and running fans.

Cut 8 (08)  “…utility bills.”

With the current heat wave responsible for air conditioning units running almost nonstop, Freese says they’ve been in communication with utility partners to assist the power grid should they be unable to meet demand and so far they don’t anticipate any issues.

Cut 9 (08)  “…ahead of time.”

For more energy-saving tips visit Entergy’s website.

____________________________________________

In an effort to reduce the burden of high gas prices on Americans President Biden is asking congress for a temporary gas holiday, by removing federal gas taxes for 90 days. Louisiana Congressman and Democrat Troy Carter says while he praises the effort he believes the administration should be looking at long-term solutions to lower prices.

Cut 10 (09) “…produce fuel.”

Carter says we should also be looking at ways to reduce our dependence on foreign oil.

Republican Congressman Mike Johnson says Biden’s attempt to lower gas prices temporarily is a desperate political attempt to help Democrats in the mid-term elections and he’s ignoring the long-term solution.

Cut  11 (06)  “…half baked idea.” 

Johnson also fears the temporarily removal of the federal gas tax will increase demand without increasing supply.

Carter says he plans to vote in favor of the proposal and he believes the temporary removal of the 18.4 cents federal tax on gas and the 24.4 cents on a gallon of diesel will help, but the administration needs to think long-term.

Cut 12 (08) “…the pump.” 

Johnson says however he along with most Republicans will most likely support the measure because the party is against higher taxes but he doesn’t believe the tax cut will be extremely effective.

Cut 13 (11) “…single American.”

Johnson says Americans would save roughly 3.6% at the pump if the tax removal is approved as gas prices average $5 a gallon nationwide.

____________________________________________

State Attorney General Jeff Landry’s office announces the arrest of Bob Dean, the owner of seven Louisiana nursing homes, who ordered residents evacuated for Hurricane Ida to unfit conditions in a Tangipahoa Parish warehouse. Over a dozen people died as a result. Legal analyst Tim Meche says the first thing he noticed about the A.G.’s press release Wednesday was what information was missing…:

Cut 14 (12)  “…released on bond”

Dean currently lives in Georgia. He is charged with 8 counts of felony Cruelty to Persons with Infirmities, 5 counts of Medicaid Fraud and 2 counts of Obstruction of Justice. The A.G.’s office also says more charges could be pending. Meche says this looks bad for the 68-year-old Dean…:

Cut 15 (09)  “…almost a life sentence.”

The arrest and charges against Dean come after a joint effort by the A.G.’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and the state Bureau of Investigations. Meche says this case has a lot more developments sure to occur, but he feel that Landry’s office could have more forthcoming in their announcement…:

Cut 16 (11)  “…for the public to know.”

Dean is being sued in civil court over the deaths. His attorneys argue he’s not mentally competent at this time to stand trial. Meche says that argument will likely come up in criminal proceedings against Dean as well.

________________________________________

The New Orleans Pelicans made the playoffs last season, but find themselves with a top ten selection in tonight’s NBA Draft. The top four players on the board seem set, but after that, it seems like anyone’s guess. Jake Madison, host of the Locked on Pelicans podcast, says it appears the Pels have plenty of interest in one player in particular.

Cut 17 (20) “ …versatility on defense.” 

One of the major factors in New Orleans turning its season around was the improvement of the Pelicans’ defense. If they select Dyson Daniels, who played last season for the NBA’s G-League Elite squad, Madison says they’ll get a highly-skilled and versatile defender with room to improve offensively.

Cut 18 (19) “ …in Fred Vinson.” 

The Pelicans have 14 of their 15 roster spots already filled, and they have three picks in the draft, including two second-round selections. There has been speculation that New Orleans may be looking to move a couple of players, and Madison says it’s more likely the Pels trade back to unload Jaxson Hayes or Devonte Graham than it is that they move up to snag one of the top players on the board.

Cut 19 (17) _“…be made there.” 

It’s been quite some time since Pelicans fans have been as optimistic heading into the draft. It seems like a new day in New Orleans and Madison says David Griffin and the rest of the front office are in an enviable position.

Cut 20 (13) “ …them to make.” 

______________________________________________

A recent operation by the Central Louisiana Violent Crime Abatement Teams results in over 150 arrests. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

______________________________________

Louisiana Tech and the Baltimore Ravens are mourning the sudden death of linebacker Jaylon Ferguson. David Grubb has more…

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m David Grubb.”  

______________________________________

Louisiana has received more than $100 million in federal housing assistance to assist over 20-thousand residents with past rent dating back as far as April 2020. Gina Campo, Deputy Executive Director with the Office of Community Development says the program will assist those who are in danger of being evicted.

Cut 3 (09) “…guidelines.”

Campo says to be eligible for the Louisiana Emergency Rental Assistance Programtotal the total household income must be at or 80 percent below the area median income. Parishes with populations over 200 thousand are running their own rental assistance programs and the state program is for the remaining 57 parishes.

Cut 4  (06) “…people as possible.”

The application process is completely paperless and Campo says homeowners affected by COVID who are behind on their mortgage may also be eligible through the Louisiana Homeowner Assistance Fund program.

Cut 5  (06) “…is there.”

Again, the website is laCOVIDhousing.com

___________________________________________________

In a collaborative effort over a two-week period, the Central Louisiana Violent Crime Abatement Team made just under 200 arrests after a very successful detail. Master Trooper Casey Wallace says several law enforcement agencies worked together to identify and apprehend a number of criminals.

Cut 6  (11) “…byproduct of the arrests.” 

Wallace says due to the increase in violent crime 19 different law enforcement agencies in the central part of the state sat down and shared information and they were able to devise a plan to apprehend as many violent offenders as possible.

Cut 7 (11) “…and did.” 

And since the mass arrests, Wallace says they are already seeing a positive impact in the area. Wallace says hospitals and ambulances in central Louisiana have reported a notable decrease in weekly drug overdoses.

Cut 8 (07) “…to one.” 

The operation also seized a number of illegal drugs including methamphetamine, PCP, ecstasy, fentanyl, and more than five thousand dollars in drug-related currency.

________________________________________________

The NFL was rocked this morning by the news of the death of Baltimore Ravens linebacker Jaylon Ferguson at the age of 26. Ferguson, who was born in Zachary, played his high school ball at West Feliciana before attending Louisiana Tech, where he earned the nickname “Sack Daddy” while racking up an FBS-record 45 sacks in his career. His coach at West Feliciana, Robb Odom is in shock…

Cut 9 (13) “…light up a room.”

Odom says Ferguson was one of the building blocks of the West Feliciana program as it climbed from contending during his high school career to winning the 3A state title in 2017. Ferguson set the tone in the locker room and on the field, serving as a leader and role model for his teammates.

Cut 10 (12) ” …the community.” 

Jaylon Ferguson is survived by his son and two daughters and his wife Doni Smith. Odom says in a short time Ferguson left a strong legacy as both a competitor and as a man.

Cut 11 (10)  “…a better person.” 

A Baltimore police spokesperson called the death “questionable,” but said there were no signs of foul play or trauma to his body. An autopsy is still pending.

_________________________________________________________________

Governor Edwards has signed legislation that requires every nursing home in the state to have an emergency preparedness plan approved by the state Department of Health. Baton Rouge Representative Rick Edmonds says it’s in response to last year’s botched evacuation involving seven nursing homes owned by Bob Dean…

Cut 12 (11) “…happen again.”  

Over 800 nursing home residents were evacuated to a warehouse in Tangipahoa Parish prior to Hurricane Ida’s landfall and over a dozen residents who spent time at the ill-equipped facility died shortly after the event.

Edmonds says previous says law required nursing homes to have an emergency preparedness plan, but it did not require approval from L-D-H….

Cut 13 (06) “…the inspection.”

Edmonds says nursing home operators will now be required to update their emergency plans and submit such plans to the LDH emergency preparedness manager for approval no later than March 1st every year…

Cut 14 (10)  “…transparency” 

The Louisiana Nursing Home Association supports the legislation.

You may be double-checking your calendar, but today is the first official day of summer. David Grubb has more on the rising temperatures that await…

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m David Grubb.”

____________________________________

While folks are watching their wallet and their gas tank this summer, state tourism is adjusting its promotional campaigns also. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

_____________________________________

Governor Edwards vetoes bills creating Education Savings Accounts to help kids behind in reading and with other learning challenges. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

________________________________________________

Though the temperatures may have indicated otherwise, today is the first official day of summer. State climatologist Barry Keim says get used to the sweltering temperatures because they aren’t going anywhere.

Cut 4 (10)  “…this past week.”

Keim says this month could be an all-timer when it comes to daily and monthly thermometer readings, and encourages people to stay safe by limiting their time outdoors, staying hydrated, and making sure that homes are properly insulated.

Cut 5 (12) “…be smart about it.”

Temps should top 100 several times over the next few days as the heat wave continues to roll on. Keim says high-pressure systems across the Eastern US have made it harder to sustain any cloud cover or generate the afternoon showers that help bring temperatures down, leading to Louisiana becoming one giant oven…

Cut 6 (13)  “…even dangerous.”

_____________________________________________

Due to gas prices impacting summer travel, Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says they’ve made a few marketing tweaks for tourism and so far, they appear to be working. He says they’ve scraped their One Tank Get Around Louisiana campaign and changed it to a half-tank of gas.

Cut 7 (07) “…tank of gas.”

And they’ve also been running promotions a bit closer to home in neighboring states. Nungesser says the campaigns include state parks and other great things to do and see in Louisiana. He says the Staycation promotion that worked so well during the pandemic is also in play this summer.

Cut 8 (07)  “…with that.”

But Nungesser says they are also putting long-term promotions into play, especially since COVID test requirements have been lifted for international travelers visiting the US.

Cut 9 (12)  “…as soon as possible.”

Nungesser says despite gas prices there’s still pent-up demand to travel and state parks are on track for another record-breaking year.

____________________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards has vetoed bills to create so-called Education Savings Accounts (ESAs). The bills were intended to assist students who have special educational needs or are behind on reading skills. Daniel Erspamer (pronounced: ER-spay-mer), with the Pelican Institute for Public Policy calls the vetoes a disappointment…:

Cut 10 (13) “…be serving them.”

In his statement on the vetoes, Edwards says the bills labels are a “misnomer” and the bills don’t establish any accounts for parental savings at all. Edwards says they would potentially sap public school funding away to give to private school students, despite the authors’ good intentions. Erspamer says ESA’s are successful and beneficial to students who are a bit behind their peers…:

Cut  11 (14)  “…all over the country.” 

Louisiana is among the worst states in the U.S. for education, and literacy among kids is a particular problem. Erspamer says the Governor’s veto is a sad development, but he doesn’t see this as merely partisan politics…:

Cut 12 (15) “…kids…need…help.” 

Erspamer says the bills will be back in future legislative sessions and they’ll eventually become law, because ESA’s do help.

____________________________________________

Though the Super Bowl won’t be back in New Orleans for another two-plus years, the 2025 New Orleans Super Bowl Host Committee is already hard at work. Now, the committee has released a Request for Qualifications, or RFQ, for local graphic designers and firms to help create the logo and visual brand identity as it moves down the road to Super Bowl 59. Here’s Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation CEO Jay Cicero…

Cut 13 (12) “…for this RFQ.”

All firms wishing to submit must do so before July 1^st as the RFQ is just the first step of a multi-stage process which will end with one group or individual chosen to help brand the organization preparing for a record-tying 11^th Super Bowl to be played in The Big Easy. With the amount of interest a job like this is sure to draw, Cicero says there’s no time to waste.

Cut 14 (11)  “…a lengthy process.”

While the RFQ does not require a design, Cicero says there’s a distinct flavor that the committee and the NFL will be looking for during the submission process once the field of applicants is narrowed.

Cut 15 (12)  “…we can be proud of.”

For more information visit g-n-o-sports-dot-com.

________________________________________

A consumer advocacy group once again observes an anniversary by sending a business lobby a tiki torch. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

______________________________________

Dads take center stage this Sunday, though a new survey shines a light on just how difficult it is for Louisiana’s working fathers. David Grubb has more…

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m David Grubb.”  

______________________________________

In an effort to hold the president of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry accountable for a promise he made two years ago, Eric Holl with Real Reform Louisiana sent Stephen Waguespack another Tiki Torch. Holl says in a radio interview Waguespack said tort reform would lower auto insurance rates.

Cut 3 (12) “…go down.”

Holl says since House Bill 57 passed two years ago, auto insurance rates have actually increased. He says in 2020 rates rose 19 percent and announced rates for 2022 could increase as much as 15 percent.

Cut 4  (12) “…for them.”

Because Waguespack was not amused with the personal delivery of a tiki torch last June 17^th, Holl says he opted to have Amazon handle the delivery this year, but Waguespack has yet to deliver on his promise.

Cut 5  (09) “…that promise.”

Efforts to reach Waguespack have gone unanswered.

___________________________________________________

This Father’s Day you may want to forget about getting Dad a tie or a wallet and instead maybe hand him a copy of the classifieds. A new survey by Wallethub-dot-com says that Louisiana is the worst state in the country for working dads. Communications director Jill Gonzalez says the rankings speak for themselves…

Cut 6  (14) “…struggled the most.” 

Just how bad do Dads have it here in the Bayou State? Gonzalez says Louisiana has almost a perfect storm of conditions to make a work-life balance nearly impossible and few support systems in place for getting it back, particularly in mental and physical health.

Cut 7 (10) “…in Louisiana.” 

The bottom of the survey rankings are dominated by Southern states, where insured rates are lower for workers, childcare costs exceed the quality of care, and men are being overworked, leaving too many in inactive lifestyles outside of their jobs. Gonzalez says Louisiana could learn from the states at the top of the rankings and start enacting policies more friendly to fathers.

Cut 8 (13) “…why not Louisiana.” 

________________________________________________

Choosing a major in college can be very stressful.  UL-Monroe VP of Enrollment Management Lisa Miller says the university is making that process easier by utilizing a new tool called MyMajors, which aligns students with degree programs based on their strengths, talents, and interests.

Cut 9 (12) “…versions of themselves.”

Incoming students take the MyMajors online assessment during their orientation and before exploring UL-M’s degree programs during breakout sessions. Miller says the response has been very exciting and the impact on students is easy to see.

Cut 10 (13) ” …something much greater.” 

Interest assessments aren’t new, though the MyMajors program is unique in that it provides students with a list of 10 majors at UL-M that might be good options for them, allowing academic advisors to provide additional information and guidance, which Millers says hopefully leads to greater confidence in degree paths, as well as higher retention and graduation rates.

Cut 11 (11)  “…degree programs.” 

MyMajors is free and is not only open to ULM students, but to anyone interested in pursuing a college degree. You can complete the quiz and get your own report at u-l-m-dot-mymajors-dot-com.

_________________________________________________________________

Legislators have until Monday to submit a court-ordered congressional map that has two Black-majority districts instead of one that was passed by the Republican majority in February. On Thursday House Speaker Clay Schexnayder asked Federal Judge Shelly Dick for a deadline extension.

Cut 12 (09) “…we have.”  

Schexnayder says there are a number of new maps that have been submitted for consideration including three in the House.

Schexnayder says some of the maps submitted by Republican lawmakers do not have two Black minority districts as instructed by Judge Dick and they are merely placeholders and can be amended if needed. He says this is only the beginning of the judicial process because the map that passed in February has yet to be ruled on in the 5^th Circuit Court of Appeals.

Cut 13 (12) “…compare them.”

House Governmental Affairs is meeting now to consider four maps that have been filed and Senate Governmental Affairs meets at 1 pm to continue discussions on a bill that was debated in committee for almost five hours Thursday.

Cut 14 (12)  “…unnecessary.” 

_____________________________________________