A hurricane could be in the southeastern Gulf of Mexico on Tuesday, but Louisiana is not in the cross hairs. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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In a first of its kind of collaboration at LA Tech, aviation students will have access to training from United Airlines. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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One of the state’s most popular outdoor events is back.  Paused for two years during the pandemic, Louisiana’s National Hunting and Fishing Day returns tomorrow to four locations around the state. Trey Iles is with the Dept. of Wildlife and Fisheries.

Cut 3 (05) “…find outdoors.” 

Events will be held at Department of Wildlife and Fisheries locations in Haughton, Monroe, Woodworth, and Baton Rouge.

Each location’s events vary but all include outdoor exhibits, as well as hunting and fishing opportunities.

Cut 4 (10) “…rifle demonstrations.” 

Iles says each location will have free food and live animal demonstrations. There’s also an emphasis on introducing kids to fishing.

Cut 5 (04) “…to anyone.” 

Each location has events in the morning and wrap up midday. In Monroe and Haughton they begin at 9 am. In Baton Rouge and Woodworth they start at 8 am.

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Tropical Depression Number Nine in the Caribbean Sea is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane. State Climatologist Barry Keim says the system is expected to strengthen over the weekend and enter the southeastern portion of the Gulf of Mexico on Tuesday  after it crosses western Cuba as a hurricane.

Cut 6 (11)  “…change a bit” 

Right now, it doesn’t appear as if Louisiana will be impacted by the storm that would be named either Hermine or Ian. But Keim says three-to-five-day forecasts tend to get altered.

Cut 7 (06) “…nothing changes.”

LRN meteorologist John Wetherbee says the National Hurricane Center is predicting this system will develop into a major hurricane…

Cut 8 (06)  “…lightly”

The Tropical Depression has sustained winds at 35 mph and once it reaches 39 mph it will reach Tropical Storm status.

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Louisiana Tech is preparing the college for takeoff with an aviation partnership with United Airlines. Dean of the College of Liberal Arts Karl Puljak (pull-yak) says in addition to training aviation students it also assists with career opportunities

Cut 9 (10)  “…their profession.”

The partnership is a first of its kind for the university and Puljak says their aviation students will benefit immensely and be able to take flight with state-of-the-art technology.

Cut 10 (08) “…in Denver, Colorado.” 

There’s a great demand for qualified pilots and Puljak says the partnership helps United fill job vacancies and it also opens the door for students who are underrepresented in the industry.

Cut 11 (04)  “…of do.”

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State Police are taking part in the National Seat Check Saturday safety event, for parents of kids still small enough to need a child seat or booster. Sgt. James Anderson says an event is scheduled for each of the State Police troops statewide, and people will be on hand to see if your vehicle’s current equipment is safe…:

Cut 12 (10) “…appropriate restraint.”  

Events will happen at well-known areas in each LSP Troop area. Anderson says it’s a good opportunity to see if your family vehicle is properly outfit for the little ones, and – if it’s not – you won’t be in any trouble…:

Cut 13 (09) “…while supplies last.” 

Events are scheduled Saturday – from 9 until noon – in Baton Rouge, Metairie, Houma, Lake Charles, Alexandria, Monroe, Shreveport, Covington and Crowley. He says finding the one nearest you is as easy as visiting Facebook…:

Cut 14 (06)  “…all over the state.” 

Search Buckle Up Louisiana on Facebook.

A reward of $30,000 is being offered to help find those responsible for the shooting death of LSU student Allie Rice. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A federal judge rules the federal government may no longer require COVID shots or masks of teachers, staff or volunteers with Project Head Start. Kevin Gallagher has the story…:

Cut 2 (29) “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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New Orleans experienced a major uptick in crimes this year with over 200 homicides, now locals are wondering if it will affect tourism. Whitney Thomas has more…

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Whitney Thomas.”

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The restaurant where Allie Rice worked is helping collect reward money for the arrest and conviction of the person or persons who gunned the LSU student down last Friday. One of the owners of The Shed, Chez Ciccone says the reward is up to $30,000 and he thinks it will make a difference.

Cut 4 (08)  “…people know.”

Allie Rice worked at The Shed alongside two of her brothers. Ciccone says the restaurant pitched in $10,000 dollars initially and other businesses have also donated to the reward. He says they hope to have $50,000 by Friday, which would be one week after the LSU senior was killed in her car on Government St. in Baton Rouge.

Cut 5 (07) “…did this.”

Ciccone says there’s been an overwhelming outpour of condolences and offers to help in any way they can since Allie was killed. He urges the community to work together to help end the uptick in crime in Baton Rouge.

Cut 6 (06)  “…off the street.” 

For more information on how to donate to the reward, you can visit The Shed’s Facebook page. If you have any tips about the case call Crimestoppers or Baton Rouge Police.

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A federal judge rules that the U.S. Government may NOT require masks and/or COVID shots for teachers, staff and volunteers with Project Head Start. The suit was brought by a school teacher and represented by the Liberty Justice Center and the Pelican Institute for Public Policy, whose general counsel Sarah Harbison says the plaintiff is vindicated…:

Cut 7 (08) “…aren’t having it.”

U.S. Circuit Court Judge Terry Doughty issued a permanent injunction preventing the feds from enforcing their mask and shot mandates on Head Start in Louisiana and 23 other states. Harbison says the case against the government wasn’t just about compliance…:

Cut 8 (06)  “…to do so.”

Harbison says the federal government can appeal the ruling, but other COVID mandates have also been reversed and they’ll likely lose on appeal in this case. President Biden recently publicly proclaimed the COVID pandemic “over” so why would the feds persist in the mask and shot mandates…?

Cut 9 (07)  “…and medical decisions.”

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Today is the first day of fall, but its unseasonally hot. Temperatures will get into the upper 90s today, and triple digits north of I-10. State Climatologist Barry Kiem says the hot weather will stick around through the weekend.

Cut 10 (09) “…some locations.”

A front is expected to come in next week dropping high temperatures back into the 80s. The humidity is also expected to drop. Keim says even though the calendar says fall summer is hanging on. 

Cut  11 (06)  “…still here.” 

But Keim says we’ll get a little break over the weekend

Cut 12 (06) “…incredibly hot..” 

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New Orleans has experienced astronomical crime rates this year with over 200 people murdered. A concerned local asked Governor John Bel Edwards on his monthly call-in radio program if this is impacting tourism.

Edwards says numbers indicate that tourism is actually up in Crescent City.

Cut 13 (13) “…our economy.”

Edwards says he believes the increase in crime isn’t keeping tourists away.  

Cut 14 (09)  “…that either..”

Edwards says getting more police officers will make a difference.

Cut 15 (08)  “… retain them.”

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Saints quarterback Jamies Winston is still struggling with ongoing back injuries that may continue to hinder him throughout the rest of the season. Winston suffered four fractures in his back in week one against the Falcons but he isn’t focusing on the pain.

Cut 16 (09)  “…than that.” 

Winston threw three interceptions in the fourth quarter against the Buccaneers last Sunday, including a costly pick-six. Winston doesn’t want his injuries to act as an excuse for his performance and takes accountability for the late-game mistakes.

Cut 17 (17) “…the middle.” 

Rookie wide receiver Chris Olave had five receptions for 80 yards in the loss but was targeted thirteen times including multiple deep shots of which only one connected. Winston praised the rookie’s route-running ability and maturity and says he needs to be more accurate on those throws down the field.

Cut 18 (14) “…in the game.” 

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U-L Lafayette’s nation-leading 15-game win streak came to an end last weekend in a loss to Rice, but coach Michael Desormeaux is glad the pressure has been taken off his team and is looking forward to bouncing back this weekend.

Cut 19 (13) “…forward here.”

The Cajuns next game will be against conference rivals ULM on Saturday. The Warhawks have had the unenviable challenge of facing off against two top programs in Texas and Alabama to start their season, but Desormeaux says the Warhawks are better than their record or even film may show.

Cut 20 (20) “ …physical one.” 

In his first TV campaign ad, Democrat Luke Mixon addresses the abortion issue. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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It’s been a calm hurricane season so far, but that might change. The National Hurricane Center says a tropical depression is likely to form in the Caribbean this week. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Marsanne Golsby.”  

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Luke Mixon releases his first TV ad for U.S Senate. In it, the pro-life Democrat says he supports codifying Roe v. Wade because Republican-backed abortion bans force rape victims to give birth. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley says the message is a political risk in such a conservative state

Cut 3 (08) “…more difficult.” 

The Mixon campaign says it’s spending six figures on the TV ad in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Monroe. Stockley says running an ad in September is significant, it indicates his campaign has the financial backing to do so and he needs to boost his name recognition.

Cut 4 (07) “…than nothing.” 

Incumbent Republican Senator John Kennedy has unveiled his second TV campaign ad highlighting his votes to cut taxes, increase paychecks, fight crime and stand up to China. Stockley says he expects Kennedy will not stray far from how he won his first senatorial campaign.

Cut 5 (09) “…of months.” 

The other major Democrats in the race, Gary Chambers and Syrita Steib, have yet to release TV ads.

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September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. National experts on the subject are sounding the alarm. Amy Wimpley Knight is president of the Children’s Hospital Association. She says the most recent numbers show a 31 percent increase in hospital admissions for children and teens—AND a frightening increase in suicide rates.

Cut 6 (07)  “…alarming statistic.” 

Knight says research shows that half of mental health conditions begin before the age of 14 and go unaddressed for 11 years or more. She says adult homelessness, addiction, and incarceration can be traced to childhood mental health issues.

Cut 7 (10) “…attention to.”

She says there is a nationwide shortage of mental health care professionals, but not every child needs expensive treatment.

Cut 8 (07)  “…for kids.”

Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy is co-author of a bill to reauthorize the Pediatric Mental Health Care Access Program for Children. The program supports mental health care teams diagnose, treat, and refer children who need help.

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The National Hurricane Center is monitoring a tropical wave that’s moving towards the Caribbean and a tropical depression is likely to form within the next few days. State Climatologist Barry Keim says it’s very early, but forecast models show this potential storm getting into the Gulf of Mexico next week…

Cut 9 (09)  “…stout storm”

Keim says forecast models become more reliable once the storm actually forms. He says they will know more in about a week.

Cut 10 (09) “…towards the tropics” 

If this tropical wave develops into a named storm, it will be called Hermine.

So far there have been six named storms this year and no major threats in the Gulf of Mexico. Keim says the statistical peak of the hurricane season was last Saturday, so we are not out of the woods yet…

Cut 11 (09)  “…relates to Louisiana”

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Senator Bill Cassidy says a new report shows the veteran suicide rate fell nearly 10-percent from 2018 to 2020. Cassidy says veteran suicide is still too high, but they are making progress. Cassidy says the Senate recently passed his Solid Start Act, which would strengthen a V-A program that regularly contacts new veterans

Cut 12 (11) “.. .a taste of summer”  

Cassidy says most suicides’ among veterans occurs within six months after getting out of the service. He says the Solid Start ACT requires the VA to contact every veteran three times by phone in the first year after leave active duty…

Cut 13 (11) “…may need to do” 

According to the report, in 2020, there were 6,146 veteran suicide deaths, down from 343 in 2019. Cassidy says veterans in crisis should dial 9-8-8. and then press 1 to be connected with the Veterans Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Experts say the pandemic is far from over in nursing homes nationwide, including in Louisiana. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby.”

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Roundabouts, you either love them or hate them, but DOTD says once you’re used to them chances are you’ll appreciate them. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (34) “I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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If you have a loved one in a nursing home, this information should concern you. New data from the AARP shows that COVID-19 still has a deadly grip on the nation’s nursing homes. Deaths and cases from residents and staff nationwide have risen for the fourth consecutive month.

Andrew Muhl is director of advocacy for AARP Louisiana.

Cut 3 (06) “…several weeks.” 

Muhl says during a four-week stretch over July and August, 46 Louisiana nursing home patients died from COVID after only recording five deaths during the previous four weeks.

The AARP is urging those with loved ones in nursing homes to contact the facilities’ staff and ask key questions about COVID in that home.

Cut 4 (10) “…COVID-19.” 

Muhl says that information should be communicated to their residents’ loved ones on a regular basis. And while experts say the pandemic has receded in most of the population, Muhl says it’s a different world inside nursing homes.

Cut 5 (09) “…general public.” 

Muhl says the rates of resident and staff cases have increased nine-fold nationwide over the last four months. He says he is concerned about high staff turnover and possible shortages of staff.

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When Louisiana roadways begin to experience significant congestion among the options to keep the flow of traffic continuous is a roundabout. While roundabouts are the norm in Europe and New England, DOTD Spokesperson Rodney Mallett says they are a successful alternative here also, even though there’s usually resistance at first.

Cut 6 (08)  “…want more.” 

Since 2003, 174 roundabouts have been constructed in Louisiana.

Mallett says according to a survey they conducted after the Sorrento roundabout, 85% say there are fewer wrecks, 88% say traffic flows better and 90% say they’d like to see another one in their community.

Cut 7 (10) “…in the area.”

While many are hesitant to embrace them at first, Mallett says if you can yield and use a blinker you can adapt to a roundabout. He says when you compare them to other intersections, you’re less likely to be involved in a serious accident like being t-boned or a high-speed rear-end.

Cut 8 (11)  “…roundabout.”

DOTD considers roundabouts as one of the options to be evaluated when they are looking at intersections and other capacity improvements.

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The NFL has suspended Tampa Bay wide receiver Mike Evans one-game for his role in yesterday’s fight in the Buccaneers 20-10 win over the Saints.  Evans knocked Saints cornerback Michael Thomas down to the ground during a shoving match between Thomas and Bucs running back Leonard Fournette. Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas says the Bucs instigated the fight

Cut 9 (07)  “…protect yourself”

Fournette shoved Lattimore after an incomplete pass that resulted in the benches-clearing brawl in the fourth quarter.

This is not the first time Evans and Lattimore have been involved in some extracurricular activity. In 2017, Evans was suspended for one game for coming onto the field and shoving Lattimore in the back and Lattimore was fined 10-thousand dollars for an unnecessary roughness call on Evans in 2020. Thomas says Evans’ antics are tiring

Cut 10 (08) “…getting old” 

The NFL says Evans was walking off the field when he turned around and violently struck an unsuspecting Thomas. Saints defensive back Tyrann Mathieu says Tampa Bay is just trying to get under Lattimore’s skin…

Cut 11 (10)  “…his game”

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The first day of Fall is Thursday, but it still feels very much like summer with the heat index around 100 degrees. LRN Meteorlogist John Wetherbee says if you are outside for a long period of time, you’ll feel it…

Cut 12 (11) “.. .a taste of summer”  

Wetherbee says the hottest temperatures will occur during the middle of the week…

Cut 13 (05) “…triple digits” 

Wetherbee says expect temperatures over 100-degrees every day this week…

Cut 14 (11)  “..be ready for heatl” 

Queen Elizabeth is being laid to rest today in London. Among the millions of condolences is one from a Louisiana man who once threatened to sue her. Marsanne Golsby  has more.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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Hurricane Fiona is the third hurricane and sixth named storm for the 2022 Atlantic Season. As we reach the peak of the season, AccuWeather has revised its predictions for the season. Brooke Thorington has more

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

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For a third straight month, Louisiana posts record-low un-employment numbers. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Queen Elizabeth II is being laid to rest today. Did you know in 2003 Queen Elizabeth issued a formal apology for the illegal deportation of thousands of French Acadians from Nova Scotia in 1755? It was Louisiana attorney Warren Perrin who demanded an apology in 1990.

Cut 4 (09)  “…world today.”

Perrin’s own ancestors were among the ten thousand men, women, and children exiled. Many of those made their way to the swamps and marshes of Southern Louisiana, but about one third died on the way. After years of wrangling, and with help from the Canadian government, Queen Elizabeth issued a formal apology.

Cut 5 (09) “…British Crown.”

And even though the queen is gone now, Perrin says she is still helping new generations of Louisiana students learn about their culture and history.

 Cut  6 (06)  “…bilingual document” 

The original signed apology from the British government is in the archives of Canada. The only other signed copy–with the queen’s signature–is at the Acadian museum in Erath.

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According to WalletHub Louisiana ranks 10^th in the nation with the highest rate of job resignations. But with record low unemployment in the Bayou State where are those individuals working UNO business professor Mark Rosa says many are choosing to become online content providers.

Cut 7 (08) “…platforms.”

In addition to online jobs, Rosa says he’s heard of out-of-state accounting and law firms hiring remote employees in Louisiana. For example, an accounting firm in Chicago recruiting virtual talent and paying Windy City wages.

Cut 8 (07)  “…outreach.”

And while service industry jobs like wait staff and the hospitality sector continue to have staffing shortages, Rosa says with more options to work remotely that include benefits are winning out.

Cut 9 (10)  “…have gone.”

Rosa says many who’ve left the productive workforce have been able to sustain themselves with remote work. Georgia ranked 1st among states with the highest resignation rate, followed by Kentucky, Tennessee, Arizona, and Wyoming.

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Hurricane Fiona is just the third hurricane and sixth named storm of the 2022 Atlantic season. AccuWeather predicted an above-average season earlier with anywhere from 16 to 20 named storms. State Climatologist Barry Keim says now AccuWeather is calling for only 12 named storms which is considered below normal.

Cut 10 (09) “…that perspective.”

In the spring NOAA forecasted 14 to 21 named storms and Colorado State University predicted 19 names storms, both above-average, for the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season.

Reasons for the revised forecast Keim says is so far, we’ve only had six named storms and we’re past the halfway point in the season. And even though a La Nina is in place along with above-average sea surface temperatures, conditions over the breeding grounds have not been favorable for the formation of storms.

Cut  11 (10)  “…form this year.” 

And while Keim says he’s not complaining whatsoever considering the last two seasons and their impact on Louisiana have been extremely harsh, it’s still too soon to say the Bayou State is out of the woods just yet.

Cut 12 (10) “…will tell obviously.” 

Keim says hurricanes have been known to arrive in Louisiana deep into the month of October before.

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Once again, Louisiana posts record low unemployment numbers. Louisiana Workforce Commission Secretary Ava Cates says this is three months in a row of benchmark low jobless claims and/or applications…:

Cut 13 (10) “…and Louisiana citizens.”

August figures show a seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 3.5-percent; that’s a record low number and the third consecutive month of declines. Cates says, yes, there are still a lot of unfilled jobs across the state…but the number of those applying for or collecting unemployment benefits has never been lower…:

Cut 14 (12)  “…are unemployed now.”

Cates says wages are coming up, which encourages more people to enter the workforce. She says LWC offers job assistance and even connections for on-the-job training, via its Tech Ready Louisiana program…:

Cut 15 (07)  “…training programs.”

Cates says she anticipates unemployment numbers to keep falling as more Louisianans go back to work.

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The Saints turned it over five times on Sunday as they suffered their first loss of the season, falling to Tampa Bay 20-10. Quarterback Jameis Winston was sacked six times and he threw three interceptions in the final 12 minuts as the Buccaneers scored 17 points in the fourth quarter…

Cut 16 (15)  “..positives there” 

Prior to the game, Jay Glazer of Fox Sports reported that Winston has four fractures in his back, but there’s no risk of further damage. New Orleans Coach Dennis Allen says he didn’t think the back injury hampered Winston’s play…

Cut 17 (20) “…and see” 

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The LSU Tigers won their SEC opener on Saturday night, scoring 21 points in the fourth quarter to rally back from a 13-point deficit to beat Mississippi State 31-16. Tigers Coach Brian Kelly likes the grit his team showed…

Cut  18 (18)“…football team.”

LSU went up tempo towards the end of the second quarter and scored a touchdown right before halftime and they kept up that fast pace in the second half as they began to wear down the Mississippi State defense. Quarterback Jayden Daniels says they like playing up-tempo…

Cut 19 (19) “…we do”

LSU’s defense gave up a 37-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, but kept the Bulldogs’ Air Raid offense in check for most of the game. They held State to 289 yards of total offense. Kelly credits the defense for following the game plan, which called for them to give the Bulldogs’ offense different looks…

Cut 20 (20) “ …situations” 

2021 saw an alarming increase in traffic fatalities and an all-time high for pedestrian deaths. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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LSU and the Saints are home underdogs this weekend, which is rare for both teams not to be favorite at home. Jeff Palermo has more on the games in Baton Rouge and New Orleans and other matchups…

Cut 2 (33) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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972 people were killed in 2021 on Louisiana roads. That’s a 17-percent increase from 2020, according to the LSU Center for Analytics and Research in Transportation. Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Spokesperson Mark Lambert says the numbers are disturbing.

Cut 3 (09) “…of COVID.” 

The 972 traffic deaths in 2021 are the most since 2007.  And 174 of the traffic fatalities occurred on Louisiana interstates, an alarming increase of 49 percent from 2020.

In addition to an uptick in aggressive driving crashes, Lambert says the number of impaired fatal driving crashes increased a disturbing 32 percent.

Cut 4 (07) “…seatbelts.” 

Lambert says awareness campaigns like Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over and Click It or Ticket, were paused during the pandemic and he believes it had an impact on the increase in traffic fatalities.

Another alarming statistic among the 2021 numbers is an all-time high of 185 pedestrian fatalities, that’s an increase of 27 percent from 2020. Lambert says if you are walking along a roadway, even in a neighborhood always walk against traffic not with it.

Cut 5 (09) “…against the traffic.” 

The major cause of roadway deaths and injuries in Louisiana are distracted driving, impaired driving, and aggressive driving.

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Seven Louisiana schools have been named National Blue Ribbon Schools. The winning schools are located in Caddo, Calcasieu, East Baton Rouge, Lafayette, St. Landry and St. Tammany parishes. State Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley says it’s exciting news…

Cut 6 (07)  “…our schools.” 

Three Louisiana schools are recognized as “Exemplary High Performing.” They are the LSU Lab School and St. James Episcopal Day School in Baton Rouge and South Highlands Elementary Magnet School in Caddo Parish. Brumley was at South Highlands on Friday morning to celebrate the achievement with the student body…

Cut 7 (12) “… excellence.”

Four of the schools are recognized as Exemplary Growth. They are Folsom Elementary in St. Tammany, Frasch Elementary in Calcasieu, Grand Prairie in St. Landry and Myrtle Place Elementary in Lafayette. Brumley says these schools showed progress in closing achievement gaps…

Cut 8 (06)  “…year to year”

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An LSU student was found dead from multiple gunshot wounds this morning in her car near Baton Rouge’s downtown area. Baton Rouge Police Sergeant L’Jean (EL-jeen) McKneely says 21-year-old Allison Rice’s vehicle was found on Government Street near railroad tracks…

Cut 9 (09)  “…in her car”

Rice was from Ascension Parish. She was a senior at LSU majoring in marketing. A Baton Rouge TV station say Rice was with friends at an establishment in the Mid City area of Baton Rouge. McKneely says their investigation is in its initial stages…

Cut 10 (10) “…we’re collecting” 

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Three children were tragically killed in a Gretna house fire this morning. Jefferson Parish Sherriff Joe Lopinto says the 3, 7, and 15-year-old victims were all from the same family.

Cut 11 (11)  “…to those injuries”

According to NOLA.com the 15-year female was babysitting her two younger brothers when the fire broke out. Firefighters reportedly found the 7-year-old boy inside the home at the bottom of the stairs on the first floor and the 15-year-old girl was found at the top of the stairs lying on top of her younger brother.

Lopinto says the department’s arson division is working with the Jefferson Parish Fire Services to investigate the cause of the blaze along with the State Fire Marshal’s Office. He says they do not suspect arson at this time, but the division is merely assisting and the cause of the blaze has not been determined.

Cut 12 (06) “.. .sad situation.”  

The fire was reported at 9:31 AM in the 500 block of Lynnmeade Road and Lopinto says firefighters and sheriff’s deputies were on the scene at 9:35

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LSU is 2.5 a point underdog at home in tomorrow’s SEC opener against Mississippi State. Tigers Coach Brian Kelly says there’s a lot of talk about the Bulldogs Air Raid offense, but they are also good on defense…

Cut 13 (10) “…to succeed” 

The Bulldogs have only allowed 169 rushing yards in two games. LSU struggled to run the ball two weeks ago against Florida State, but running back John Emery returns on Saturday from academic suspension. The former five-star running back has not played since 2020 and Kelly says it’s good to get Emery back…

Cut 14 (11)  “..the ball well” 

The debate over whether New Orleans should receive a 39-million dollar line of credit for a flood protection project because city leaders oppose the state’s abortion ban is over.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The state-run property insurer of last resort requests a rate hike of over 60 percent. Kevin Gallagher has the story…:

Cut 2 (30) “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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Well, there’s good news and bad news on how Louisiana fared in 2021 financial wise according to the Census. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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After failing on two previous occasions, the Bond Commission approved a 39-million dollar future line of credit for a new power plant for New Orleans drainage pumps. Attorney General Jeff Landry pushed to delay the funding, because he says New Orleans officials pledged not to enforce the state’s abortion ban. Angelique Freel, Civil Director of the Louisiana Department of Justice, spoke on Landry’s behalf…

Cut 4 (10)  “…physical cost.”

But New Orleans City Attorney Donesia Turner told the Bond Commission that the mayor, the city council or the police superintendent never said they would not enforce the state’s abortion ban, but it would not be a high priority…

Cut 5 (08) “…be priority.” (2x)

After a spirited discussion, the Bond Commission voted to approve the future line of credit. It’s money the city will not see for a future year, but Franklin Senator Bret Allain says if they keep delaying a vote on this project, it will impact other projects….

 Cut  6 (07)  “…is ridiculous” 

Landry has been accused of playing politics by leading the effort to withhold this future line of credit. Landry is expected to run for governor next year, another potential candidate, Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser said it’s time to approve the line of credit…

Cut 7 (09) “…I feel.”

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The Federal Highway Administration approved the state’s Electric Vehicle infrastructure plan which will result in $73 million in federal funding over the next five years.

Louisiana was one of the first states to submit and be approved. Louisiana Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson, says this money will be distributed to private companies that will own, install, and operate EV charging stations.

Cut 8 (10)  “…the requirements.”

The state won’t own the infrastructure but will be responsible for inspections. Wilson says they expect private sectors to be responsive.

Cut 9 (12)  “…do that.”

Wilson says Louisiana’s EV charging network is relatively low compared to our neighboring states

Cut 10 (04) “…public 24/7.”

Funds are estimated to disburse by summer 2023. 

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The state-run property insurer of last resort, Louisiana Citizens, requests permission to raise rates by over 60 percent. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says Citizens requested a 63-percent hike, but he and staff have not gone over it yet. He says the answer is to offer new insurers incentives to come to Louisiana and take on some of those Citizens policies, at much less cost to homeowners…:

Cut  11 (09)  “…after Katrina.” 

Donelon’s plan had measurable success in shrinking Citizens book of business after it ballooned following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005. In the past year, six companies have left Louisiana due to the ravages of hurricanes in 2020 and ’21. Donelon says a great many of those displaced customers had to go to Citizens…:

Cut 12 (14) “…114-thousand now.” 

Because of the cost of covering all those new policies, Citizens is requesting the rate increase, which Donelon says he’ll go over thoroughly with his staff. If approved it will take effect on January 1^st…:

Cut 13 (06) “…what they submitted.”

Donelon says the incentive plan to get new insurers worked before and he’s confident it will work again; bringing needed relief to south Louisiana homeowners.

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Census Bureau data indicates how the Bayou State fared during the pandemic. Executive Director of the Louisiana Budget Project, Jan Moller says there’s good news and bad news when you look at the numbers. Among the bad is the state’s poverty rate.

Cut 14 (11)  “…in the country.”

But Moller is quick to point out that when you look at the Supplemental Poverty Measurement, the financial situation for Louisianans improved during the pandemic. He says in addition to income, it looks at benefits like SNAP and enhanced unemployment and that measure shows the poverty rate decreased.

Cut 15 (12)  “…improved.”

Moller says national data shows poverty, especially among children fell to historic lows when the expanded Child Tax Credit was available.

In addition to the state’s poverty rate Census data indicated an improvement when it comes to health insurance coverage. Moller says in 2021 those without health insurance fell to an all-time low and approximately 92% of Louisianans had some form of health coverage.

Cut 16 (09)  “…health insurance.” 

Data also indicates the median household income dropped from $54,000 in 2019 to $52,000 annually in 2021.

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The Saints welcome Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to the Ceasars Superdome on Sunday for New Orleans home opener. Brady is 0-4 against the Saints in the regular season since arriving in Tampa. The future Hall of Famer on why the Black and Gold have been their nemesis…

Cut 17 (29) “…expect to win.” 

Saints quarterback Jameis Winston gets to face his old team and it’s the opponent he tore his ACL against last October. But Winston is not putting any added significance on this game…

Cut  18 (22)“…for those guys.”

Kick-off on Sunday is at noon.

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The Ragin Cajuns will try to extend the nation’s longest active winning streak to 15 games when they visit the Rice Owls. U-L Lafayette has yet to really get its running game going and Coach Michael Desormeaux says that will be a key in Houston…

Cut 19 (19) “…when you need it”

K-C Ossai has emerged on the Cajuns defense. He has 12 tackles and a forced fumble through two games after just five tackles last season. Desormeaux says there’s a lot to like about the sophomore linebacker from Texas

Cut 20 (20) “ …young guy.” 

A portion of the historic match-up between LSU and Southern went viral after a Tiger fan walked onto the field. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Two juveniles are now in custody for the shooting of a teenager from Assumption Parish. Whitney Thomas has more..

Cut 2 (33) “I’m Whitney Thomas.”  

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During the LSU-Southern game when an extra man walked onto the field the officer who ended up tackling him was Baton Rouge PD Spokesperson Don Coppola. On Mornings with Brian Halden, Coppola talked about how video of the incident has gone viral.

Cut 3 (12) “…been bad.” 

Coppola says the viral video even ended up on Sean Hannity’s program on Fox News.

When these oddities do occur Coppola says it’s usually a fan running across the field and possibly even streaking. But this incident was most unusual because the fan walked onto the field and just stood there with his hands on his hips while the ball was in play.

Cut 4 (12) “…to continue.” 

The game was already historic being the first match-up for LSU and Southern but thanks to social media it might most be remembered for the fan on the field. Coppola says he was quickly escorted off the field but not before words were exchanged.

Cut 5 (09) “…end up well.” 

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Thibodaux Police make a second arrest in the death of 15-year-old Jairen Cole, who was shot multiple times inside a home on Saturday. Earlier this week detectives arrested a 15-year-old male, charging him with 1 count of Second Degree Murder.

Spokesperson Clint Dempster says further investigating led them to a 12-year-old suspect who they charged with 1-count of Principle Second Degree Murder

Cut 6 (08)  “…definitely involved.” 

The Juvenile is currently being held at the Lafourche Parish Juvenile Justice Facility awaiting court proceedings. Dempster says it’s disheartening to see juveniles in these situations.

Cut 7 (05) “… it’s heartbreaking.”

Dempster says that this should make the community realize that structure starts at home.

Cut 8 (13)  “…at home.”

The incident still remains under investigation. The suspected motive is still being withheld at this time. If you have further information contact Thibodaux police.

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Louisiana Senator John Kennedy says if cities and towns want to reduce crime, they need to hire more police officers. A recent study shows New Orleans could have the highest murder rate per capita in the nation for the first half of 2022. Kennedy says New Orleans needs to double its force and retain veteran cops…..

Cut 9 (06)  “…retiring in droves”

Kennedy says it will cost money to hire more officers and prevent older cops from retiring, but local governments should not use that as an excuse…

Cut 10 (11) “…use that money” 

Kennedy says improving morale within police department can also help reduce crime. He says improving officer morale starts with elected officials and standing behind their cops when they’re right, which is 99-percent o f the time…

Cut 11 (12)  “…police officers”

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The website DivorceAnsweres.com discovered that 38 percent of Louisiana couples that seek separation renege due to financial dependency. Legal Analyst Doug Sunseri says most couples face a devastating reality when deciding to split.

Cut 12 (12) “.. upon divorce”  

Some couples conclude that the financial burden weighs more than the actual divorce. Sunseri says even the most complex situations result in spouses staying together to avoid financial consequences.

Cut 13 (11) “…case base” 

Couples that both receive financial income separately from work have a better advantage of splitting than couples with one dependent. Sunseri says the legal process can still be pernicious.

Cut 14 (11)  “…financial standpoint” 

A nationwide survey of small business owners finds that inflation continues to be a serious problem. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Today, carbon dioxide levels in the Earth’s atmosphere are the highest they’ve been in about 800 thousand years. An expert from LSU’s AgCenter says there’s something you can do that’s actually very easy. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Marsanne Golsby.”  

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Nearly a third of small business owners nationwide say inflation is their single most important problem in operating their business. That’s a slight decrease from a previous survey conducted by the National Federation of Independent Businesses. NFIB State Director Dawn McVea says inflation remains a serious challenge for small businesses

Cut 3 (09) “…reduced some.” 

A consumer Price Index Report released this week showed annual price inflation hit eight-point-three percent in August, which was slightly down from July. McVea says the survey also shows small business owners have a dismal outlook when it comes to better business conditions over the next six months…

Cut 4 (08) “..the election” 

McVea says spending and plans to spend by small business owners remain historically weak and uncertainty remains high. She hopes 2022 can still end on a high note…

Cut 5 (10) “… the year.” 

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Tropical Depression Number Seven formed in the Atlantic this morning. New Orleans National Weather Service Meteorologist Danielle Manning says it’s about 800 miles west of the Lesser Antilles. She says it’s expected to remain on a westward track and reach Haiti by Monday.

Cut 6 (09)  “…out to sea.” 

As far as Louisiana or even the Gulf of Mexico, Manning says right now it’s not a huge concern, but we should keep a watchful eye on Number Seven…

Cut 7 (06) “…more clear.”

Compared to the last two hurricane seasons things are unusually calm for the Bayou State storm-wise. Manning says the Saharan Dust along with dry air over the Caribbean has made it more difficult to predict the season months in advance. Manning says it’s not time by any means to let your guard down.

Cut 8 (10)  “…time of year.”

Manning says it’s never too early to review your hurricane plans and have things prepared just in case.

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LSU AgCenter horticulturist Heather Kirk Ballard is urging us to plant more trees to absorb greenhouse gasses.  A single tree can pull 48 pounds of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere in one year. She says people in Louisiana tend to cut trees out of fear of hurricane damage.

Cut 9 (07)  “…quickly”

Fast-growing trees that resist strong winds include Nutall oaks, river birch, and sycamores.

She says trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during photosynthesis and store it as carbon molecules in the plants’ wood, roots, and leaves.

Cut 10 (09) “…they grow.” 

Ballard says forested areas can be up to ten degrees cooler than cities because trees act as natural air conditioners.

Cut 11 (09)  “…the summertime.”

Ballard says trees that are even 60 feet away can help cool our homes.

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Two-time Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning, College World Series Champion baseball coach Paul Mainieri and LSU’s all-time leading receiver Wendell Davis are going into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame. Chairman Doug Ireland says former LSU pitcher Paul Byrd and W-N-B-A all-star Alana Beard are also part of the class…

Cut 12 (11) “.. represent Louisiana”  

Mainieri led the LSU Tigers to a national championship in 2009. Ireland says during 15 seasons at LSU, Mainieri won 641 games…

Cut 13 (12) “…the class” 

Ireland says Beard led Southwood High School in Shreveport to four consecutive state championships, the Duke Blue Devils to two Final Four apperances and she helped the Los Angeles Sparks win a WNBA title

Cut 14 (12)  “…for years” 

The 2023 class will be enshrined on July 29th in Natchitoches.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office issues new guidelines for complying with the state’s new carbon monoxide detector law. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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 Louisiana is bring back an African American Heritage Trail.  Whitney Thomas has more…

Cut 2 (30) “….I’m Whitney Thomas” 

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The House Ways & Means Committee held its first meeting looking at how the state can eliminate income taxes, but still pay for government services. Kevin Gallagher has the story…:

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The State Fire Marshal’s Office issues guidance on complying with Louisiana’s new law requiring carbon monoxide detectors in all new homes and rentals. Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says the law, passed in the 2022 legislature, takes effect January 1^st…:

Cut 4 (10)  “…carbon monoxide alarm inside.”

The law requires that all homes sold or leased and all rental properties must have at least one C.O. monitor, as well as a smoke detector, placed within 10 feet of sleeping areas. She says this is particularly important for homes using natural gas for heating, cooking or hot water, but also for those with whole home generators…:

Cut 5 (07) “…to be in place.”

The law doesn’t take effect until January, but Rodrigue says now is the time to get the detectors installed…so there will be time to work out any potential issues….:

 Cut  6 (07)  “…if it’s not working.” 

Carbon monoxide detectors can be bought at most any home hardware store, and one can even get single units that operate as both smoke AND C.O. detectors at a reasonable cost.

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Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser and the Louisiana Office of Tourism announced the relaunch of the Louisiana African American Heritage Trail. A luncheon took place at the Whitney plantation in St. James Parish to discuss further plans.

Governor Nungesser says the trail created years ago left out some of Louisiana’s significant history…

Cut 7 (11) “…in Louisiana.”

The African American Heritage Trail includes sites that showcase innovative African Americans’ contribution to our nation’s history, and Louisiana’s everyday life, culture, and art. The Civil rights trail focuses on events that predated the Civil Rights movement.

Nungesser says the relaunch came with consolidating the staff.

Cut 8 (11)  “…new promotion.”

The  African American Heritage trail was first launched in February 2008, including 26 sites from New Orleans to north Louisiana. Now there are over 38 sites open to the public. The Heritage trail will highlight the arrival of ships carrying the enslaved, and continue through the civil rights period.

Nungesser says this will have long-term benefits.

Cut 9 (11)  “…for tourist.”

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Ochsner Health President and CEO Warner Thomas is leaving to lead a health care system in California. Thomas became Ochsner’s CEO in 2012 and during that time Ochsner Health tripled in size from 13-thousand to 36-thousand employees and that includes 23-hundred physicians in Louisiana, Mississippi and Alabama

Cut 10 (07) “…everyday.”

Thomas and his successor, Pete November, worked together to develop the Ochsner LSU Health System of North Louisiana–adding more than 300 physicians there and investing more than $200 million.

Thomas says the biggest challenge his team has faced was the early days of the COVID pandemic. He praises the heroism of Ochsner’s front-line medical staff.

Cut  11 (11)  “..health care entity” 

The Ochsner Health Board unanimously voted to appoint Pete November as Thomas’s success. November is Ochsner Health’s current Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. He’ll assume his role on November first and Thomas predicts a smooth transition…

Cut 12 (08) “..flourish.” 

Thomas is joining Sutter Health, based in Sacramento, California.

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The House Ways and Means Committee has begun the process of looking at eliminating the state’s income tax as a way to bring more jobs to Louisiana. Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson says the state’s current tax structure continues to hold Louisiana back and it’s time for real tax reform…

Cut 13 (08) “…bring that forward”

Nelson reminds members that other states in our region of the country are doing much better than Louisiana, in terms of revenue, jobs & business growth and their tax structures…:

Cut 14 (09)  “…no income tax.”

Nelson asks fellow lawmakers to find a way to make fundamental tax reforms, including ridding the state in the income tax. Way & Means Committee Chairman (and Lafayette Representative) Stewart Bishop says there’s a lot of work ahead…:

Cut 15 (11)  “…a very big task.”

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ULM is nearly a 50-point underdog heading into this Saturday’s game against second ranked Alabama in Tuscaloosa. Warhawks Coach Terry Bowden says it’s not easy to come up with a game plan to slow down Crimson Tide quarterback and last season’s Heisman Trophy winner Bryce Young…

Cut 16 (16)  “..run it” 

Bowden is asking his players to play the best that they can play. He says last week saw a bunch of upsets in college football and would love to see the Warhawks pull off a stunner at Alabama…

Cut 17 (18) “…in Notre Dame” 

ULM 1-and-1 on the season after beating Nicholls 35-to-7 last Saturday. Warhawks coach Terry Bowden says he’s been pleased with his quarterback Chandler Rogers, who threw for 253 yards and two TDs…

Cut  18 (20)“…we got him”

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LSU continues to prepare for Mississippi State’s air-raid offense which means a lot of passing. Bulldogs Quarterback Will Rogers leads the SEC in passing yards and has thrown a league-high nine touchdowns. Tigers Coach Brian Kelly says State runs a half-dozen concepts very well, so you can’t get too cute on defense…

Cut 19 (17) “..get exposed”

Kelly doesn’t plan on making any changes to the starting line-up of his offensive line. Against Southern, the Tigers started Will Campbell, Charles Turner, Miles Frazier, Garret Dellinger and Anthony Bradford…

Cut 20 (23) “ …hoping for”