The St. Tammany Parish coroner confirms two recent overdose deaths were the result of taking “look-alike” pills containing 100 percent fentanyl, which can kill. More from Brooke Thorington…:

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Pro-life and pro-choice advocates react to the State Supreme Court’s denial to hear an appeal challenging Louisiana’s abortion ban. Brooke Thorington more

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

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It’s the sixth anniversary of the great flood that devastated so many communities in Louisiana. Baton Rouge Mayor Sharon Broome was in the midst of campaigning for her mayoral term and like so many she was forced to leave her home. But says she was fortunate enough she could turn to relatives.

Cut 3 (08) “…took me in.”

After living in what was designated as a no flood zone since 1999, Broome says like many others she was in shock when she left her house that Saturday.

Cut 4 (10)  “…the next day.”

It wasn’t until November 2017 that she was able to live in her home again.

In addition to residents losing their homes, Broome says there was a multitude of issues on top of that for so many.

Cut 5 (10) “…definitely empathize.”

Since 2016 Broome says the city continues to work on drainage issues and believes Infrastructure Funds will expedite more improvements to avoid severe flooding in the future.

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The coroner in St. Tammany Parish is very concerned with escalating fentanyl overdose deaths; especially because people may not even know that is what they are taking. Dr. Charles Preston says pills bought and sold on the street may look like semi-harmless pain relievers, but many contain highly dangerous fentanyl. He says the recent death of a 22-year-old man after taking a single pill is cause for alarm…:

Cut 6 (13)  “…in the community.”

Preston confirms that man died from an overdose of fentanyl and, though the pill he took appeared to be Percocet, it was 100-percent illegally made fentanyl….:

Cut 7 (10) “….were in our community.”

In mid-July a St. Tammany Parish 15-year-old also died from a fentanyl overdose. Two people have been arrested in connection and charged with murder. Dr. Preston says the fentanyl scourge is growing like a weed…:

Cut 8 (14)  “…were fentanyl.”

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Since Roe v Wade was overturned, the state abortion ban was on, then off, then on again. Louisiana Family Forum president Gene Mills is pleased with the decision that paves the way for abortions to finally be illegal in the state.

Cut 9 (11)  “…pro-life position.”

Pro-choice advocates however are disappointed. Devante Lewis with the Louisiana Budget Project says the state is not prepared for the influx of children that will be living in poverty because already 62 percent of children in Louisiana are born as Medicaid recipients.

Cut 10 (11) “…in our state.”

The possibility of legislation to amend the ban to allow for the exceptions of rape or incest, Mills believes is highly unlikely.

Cut  11 (12)  “…pro-life state.” 

Lewis fears since conservatives in Louisiana have outlawed abortion that the right to contraception could also be lost. He says if the legislature is truly pro-life they have to be willing to raise the minimum wage, ensure affordable housing and protect existing social safety nets like DCFS, SNAP, and Medicaid.

Cut 12 (08) “…same time.” 

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Louisiana’s on-again-off-again abortion ban law is on again, and this time it may stick. The state Supreme Court Friday rejected an appeal by abortion rights activists seeking to keep clinics open; arguing the law was too vague to enforce. Loyola University law professor Dane Ciolino says the High Court’s denial does not surprise him. He feels the plaintiff’s argument didn’t hold up…:

Cut 13 (12) “…happen in Louisiana.”

Pro-choice advocates are angry there is such a law in place at all, but especially so that the law has no exemptions for rape or incest. Governor Edwards, who signed the bill into law himself, also expressed that concern. Ciolino says the High Court’s judgment sends a message on abortions…:

Cut 14 (11)  “…rather than the courthouse.”

Ciolino says this marks the end of battles over the abortion law in courts, and – if there are to be further exemptions for abortions – there is a proper process for getting that done…:

Cut 15 (12)  “…by the governor.”

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The Saints lost their preseason opener on Saturday night 17-13 to Houston, but the first team offense and defense looked good. Veteran quarterback Andy Dalton led New Orleans on a ten-play touchdown drive, where he completed all five of his passes including a nine-yard touchdown pass to Dwayne Washington. Coach Dennis Allen says it was good to see…

Cut 16 (15)  “…second phase.”

It was also a good night for linebacker Chase Hansen who resigned with the team less than a week ago after spending a couple of seasons on the team’s practice squad. Hanson played 24 snaps on defense, seven on special teams, and had six tackles, two tackles for a loss, and an interception…

Cut 17 (16) “…back playing” 

One of the big position battles is for third-string running back. Rookie running back Abram Smith had a fumble inside the red zone. Allen says overall the guys competing at that position ran hard…

Cut  18 (18)“…better job there.”

It was the first NFL game for rookie left tackle Trevor Penning. He played well in the first half, but struggled more in the second half, allowing a sack. Penning knows he has to get better…

 Cut 19 (19) “…from it.” 

A new national survey of small business owners says inflation is still the number one worry facing them. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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August is National Breastfeeding Month, and the Louisiana Department of Health says more mothers are learning the practice through their WIC program. Brooke Thorington explains.

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

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A new survey of small business owners shows they’re not optimistic about business conditions right now. More than a third say inflation is their biggest concern. National Federation of Independent Business state director Dawn McVea says half of their members have job openings they can’t fill and a bit more than half are having to raise prices.

Cut 3 (11) “…for our folks” 

She says the national Inflation Reduction Act, which gives the IRS billions more dollars for audits and enforcement, worries small business owners.

Cut 4  (09) “…process of audit.”

McVea says what business owners need the most is certainty to know how to spend their money. But historic inflation, labor shortages, and supply chain disruptions means uncertainty is climbing again. This means small business owners are reluctant to spend money unless they have to

Cut 5  (:06) “…on right now.”

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The shortage of infant formula put the practice of breastfeeding in the spotlight. Kristen Hill who’s a peer counselor with the Louisiana Department of Health says when they promoted their breastfeeding program more WIC mothers signed up for guidance.

Cut 6   (07) “…they love it.” 

The use of breastfeeding peer counselors at WIC clinics increased 30 percent from August of last year.

Hill says breastfeeding isn’t as easy as it sounds, especially when you don’t have a support system and/or proper instruction. If done incorrectly it can be harmful.

Cut 7 (11) “…walk them through it.” 

Hill says even mothers with their second child are learning the benefits of breastfeeding. She says some of her clients are the first in their family to ever breastfeed and they just need proper guidance and support.

Cut 8 (06) “…mom and baby.”

In addition to learning breastfeeding techniques for those mothers who return to work, they are also educated on how to pump breast milk. August is National Breastfeeding Month.

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Charges have been upgraded for a Baton Rouge man after preliminary autopsy results indicate his two-year son died as a result of injuries sustained in a beating. BRPD’s Lt. Don Coppola says 25-year-old-Anderson King Jr. was initially facing 2nd-degree cruelty to a juvenile, but now it’s first-degree murder.

Cut 9 (08)  “…homicide.”

On Sunday, Coppola says, officers responded to a local hospital regarding an assault that involved a two-year-old child. King was arrested Monday.

Cut 10 (08) “…cruelty charge.” 

King is being held at the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison and Coppola says the investigation is ongoing.

Cut 11 (08)  “…more difficult.”

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Saints quarterback Jameis Winston did not practice today, but the injury to his foot is not serious, Head Coach Dennis Allen says he’s day-to-day with a sprained foot…

Cut 12 (09) “…here we go”  

Winston will not play in Saturday’s preseason opener against the Houston Texans.

At LSU,  Junior defensive end B-J Ojulari (O-juh-lar-e) has been chosen to wear number 18, which goes to the player that’s not only a stand out on the field, but also does great work in the community and is a leader for the university. Ojulari says having great character is important for him…

Cut 13 (12) “…little bit”

Former Congressman and state legislator Buddy Leach of Leesville has passed away at the age of 88. Marsanne Golsby has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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To help the ongoing nursing shortage the LSU Health New Orleans School of Nursing is expanding to North Louisiana. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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Former Congressman and Louisiana legislator Claude “Buddy” Leach died Saturday of congestive heart failure, according to his family. Leach served one term in Congress, four terms in the legislature, and ran for governor in 2003.

He was the son of a plumber who lost his mother at an early age. Leesville Senator Mike Reese says his innate business sense and knack for connecting with people helped him build a business fortune and succeed in politics.

Cut 3 (04) “…astonish me” 

Leach was an attorney and married into a family that owned Sweet Lake Land and Oil company in the southwest Louisiana. Sweet Lake’s cattle herd became the largest in the country under his direction. He also served on the Leesville-based Merchants and Farmers Bank and Reese says for nearly two decades he was the chairman…

Cut 4  (13) “…where  he started.”

Leach’s public record wasn’t perfect. He was charged—but acquitted—of vote buying in 1979 and lost his reelection in 1980. Still, those who knew him best say his main goal in life was to make Louisiana better.

Cut 5  (10) “…his community.”

He was 88-years-old. Leach’s funeral is Friday at the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd in Lake Charles.

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The LSU Health New Orleans School of Nursing expands its program to north Louisiana to assist with the ongoing nursing shortage. Assistant Professor of Nursing Off-Campus, Linda Ledet (rhymes with Bidet) says the new approved Off-Campus Instructional site is at LSU-Health Shreveport.

Cut 6   (08) “…greatly.” 

Ledet says it’s a win-win so they can teach even more students in Shreveport with in-person instruction in conjunction with faculty from the nursing school in New Orleans that’s consistently ranked among the top nursing schools in the nation.

Cut 7 (06) “…virtual classes.” 

The accelerated program allows students to graduate in two years and having the ability to use resources from both campuses, will greatly benefit students. Ledet says they are already accepting applications for spring.

Cut 8 (11) “…in the fall.”

The two-year Career Alternative RN Education Program is open to students who have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

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Louisiana once again performs poorly in the Annie E Casey Foundation’s child well being ranking. The state ranks 49th, finishing ahead of only New Mexico. Annie E Casey Foundation president Lisa Hamilton says the state has only made a slight improvement in the percentage of children living poverty and federal assistance may have played a role…

Cut 9 (10)  “…as well.”

According to the report, 26-percent of Louisiana children live in poverty as of 2020.

Hamilton says The Kids Count Data Book also discovered the incidence of anxiety and depression among kinds spiked with 12-percent of kids nationally struggling to make it through the day, a 26-percent increase from 2016

Cut 10 (10) “…pandemic deaths.” 

The report says as of July 2022, over 200-thousand kids nationwide have lost a parent or primary caregiver to the coronavirus.

Hamilton also says Louisiana ranks low when it comes to the physical health of children

Cut 11 (06)  “…low birth rates.”

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The Concordia Parish Sheriff’s office has arrested a teacher for sending  text messages to a 15-year-old student for sexual purposes. C-P-S-O spokesperson Brandy Spears says 26-year-old Bradly Dyer of Colfax discussed dating the minor in the text messages,,,

Cut 12 (09) “…a secret”  

Spears says Dyer told detectives he recently began a new job as a high school teacher. Dyer was arrested with the assistance Grant Parish Sheriff’s office at his home in Colfax…

Cut 13 (08) “…the school”

Spears says Dyer has been charged and incarcerated…:

Cut 14 (08)  “..with juveniles.” 

A Louisiana veterans’ advocacy group applauds the recent passage of the PACT Act. Kevin Gallagher explains what it is, and how it will help veterans

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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A New Orleans non-profit that helps feed those in need has sparked a new idea to remain restaurants operational after hurricanes knock out the power. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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DNA technology in the state advances to solving crime quicker, Brooke Thorington has more on what you see on your favorite TV crime drama that’s closer to becoming reality.

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A bill signing is scheduled this week in Washington DC for the federal PACT Act; legislation providing expanded medical care for veterans exposed to toxins during their military service. John Wells is chairman of the Slidell-based Military Veterans Advocacy. He says PACT – for Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics – will benefit about three-point-five million veterans nationwide…:

Cut 4 (10)  “…and Uzkekistan.”

The PACT Act provides for expedited health care for vets assigned to handle burn pits or exposed to radiation in the line of duty. It will also provide compensation for those unable to work because of such exposure. Wells says the money will do a lot of good…:

Cut 5 (07) “…a lot of years.”

President Biden is expected to sign the bill Wednesday at the White House. The PACT Act also provides for veterans to receive care at private medical facilities, in the absence of locally available Veterans Administration care. Wells says that contingency may well be needed…:

Cut 6 (07)  “…overly optimistic.”

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Qualifying for the 2023 Louisiana governor’s race happens one year from today and we still do not have any announced candidates to replace the term-limited John Bel Edwards. ULM political science professor Joshua Stockley says a lot will depend on who controls the U.S. Senate after the federal midterm elections. He says after the national picture is clear Louisiana’s race will finally develop

Cut 7 (11) “….fundraising advantage”

If Republicans take control of the senate Stockley thinks its more likely Cassidy and Kennedy stay there, opening the door for Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and Attorney General Jeff Landry. Stockley says the lack of a prominent Democratic candidate is a bad sign for Democrats.

Cut 8 (11)  “…of the party right now.”

Stockley says with so many unknowns affecting the governor’s race it might be quite a while before we know who the major contenders will be.

Cut 9 (07)  “…hard to know.”

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A New Orleans non-profit wants to equip restaurants with solar panels so they can remain operational during power losses. Feed Second Line Founder Devin De Wulf says the idea was sparked when the city lost power for 10 days after Ida and restaurants had to dispose of thousands of pounds of food.

Cut 10 (11) “…and batteries.”

De Wulf says they installed their first set of solar panels a few weeks ago at the Caribbean restaurant Queen Trini Lisa in Mid-City New Orleans. He says outfitting each restaurant runs between 60 and 90 thousand dollars, but there’s a way for the eateries to pay back into the program with energy savings.  De Wulf hopes it serves as a model for the state.

Cut  11 (05)  “…of hurricanes.” 

In addition to preserving food, De Wulf says the solar-powered restaurants can act as cooling and phone charging stations for the neighborhood. He’s hoping the idea will take off and become a mainstay for a state that’s embattled with hurricane recovery.

Cut 12 (10) “…the dream.” 

He says instead of relying on other states to provide support after hurricanes we need to give ourselves the tools to do it on our own.

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The Louisiana State Police Crime Lab is the first in the country to receive approval from the FBI to conduct rapid DNA booking operations. Sgt. Dustin Dwight says the technology has the potential to keep criminals from being unknowingly released prior to the return of traditional DNA results.

Cut 13 (10) “…linked to a crime.”

Dwight says for more than three years the state crime lab has been working with the FBI and other states to develop the Rapid DNA program. He gives the crime lab full credit for the achievement of being the first state in the country to implement the program.

Cut 14 (10)  “…more safe.”

When a qualified arrestee’s DNA sample is collected it’s run in the Combined DNA Index System and if it’s linked to a sample collected at a previous crime scene Dwight says all the involved law enforcement agencies are alerted.

Cut 15 (05)  “…as well.”

The first Rapid DNA instrument was installed at the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office and the state crime lab will add three more at other agencies in the state by the end of next year.

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LSU wide receiver Kayshon Boutte says she’s 100 percent after undergoing two surgeries on his ankle. Boutte, who is a potential first-round pick next year, says winning the Biletnikoff Award is one of the goals

Cut 16 (15)  “…just excited”

Boutte admits he looked at transferring when a new coaching staff came in, but he’s built trust with head coach Brian Kelly’s staff

Cut 17 (15) “.to that” 

One of the new additions to LSU’s roster is running back Noah Cain, who has transferred in from Penn State. The junior from Baton Rouge says Frank Wilson’s return as the team’s running backs coach is one of the reasons he chose to come back home…

cut  18 (18) “   player overall”

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The Ragin Cajuns are going through their first preseason camp with Michael Desormeaux as its head coach. The former U-L Lafayette quarterback spent the last six seasons on the Ragin Cajuns staff and was co-offensive coordinator last year. Desormeaux says his promotion to head coach doesn’t change his mindset

 cut 19 (20) _“…Saturdays” 

The big storyline at Cajuns’ camp is the battle for starting quarterback between sophomore Chandler Fields and junior Ben Wooldridge. Desormeaux says the staff is 100-percent confident in both guys

Cut 20 (19) “ …to everyone” 

It’s National Oyster Day but how is the state’s oyster industry fairing? Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Five years ago Louisiana enacted the most comprehensive criminal justice reform in state history. The goal was to safely reduce the state’s high imprisonment rate, but now there’s a change. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”  

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It’s National Oyster Day and the Bayou State is very familiar with the well-loved seafood, but the local industry has been in serious recovery mode thanks to the last two hurricane seasons. Oyster Task Force Chairman Mitch Jurisich says they are starting to see oyster spawns.

Cut 3 (11) “…market time.” 

He says Ida wiped out the Houma area, and in Plaquemines Parish, they lost about 30 percent of their crop, and other areas lost as much as 80 percent.

In addition to hurricanes, freshwater released from the Bonnet Carre spillway also damaged oyster beds. But Jurisich, a third-generation oyster farmer says Louisiana still holds a claim to fame with oysters.

Cut 4  (09) “…by a thread.”

Even though the industry is in recovery mode, Jurisich says they are hopeful they will continue to rebound and that the current and future hurricane seasons are kind. He says as long as there are oysters to be harvested, farmers will continue to take pride in their work.

Cut 5  (08) “…biggest and the best.”

So in honor of National Oyster Day be sure to consume some Louisiana oysters today.

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Based on data collected by the Public Affairs Research Council, Louisiana has the second highest incarceration rate in the country. PAR President Steven Procopio says Mississippi was number one…

Cut 6   (06) “…570” 

Following Mississippi and Louisiana, Arkansas, Oklahoma and Alabama rank in the top five for the highest incarceration rates. Procopio says once you get past the top five, the incarceration rate really falls off…

Cut 7 (08) “.. of our 570.” 

Procopio says a major issue in Louisiana and the rest of the country is the number of inmates who return to prison within five years after being released. He says the three-year recidivism rate for those convicted of crimes in Louisiana is 34-percent

Cut 8 (06) “…violent crime”

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Police Baton Rouge arrest a 20-year-old Houma man for the alleged rape of an underage girl. BRPD spokesman Sgt. L’Jean (EL-gene) McKneely says 20-year-old Kwan Allen made contact with the 16-year-old girl via social media; representing himself being much younger. McKneely says he courted the girl online , via SnapChat, for weeks before enticing her to a meeting at the Mall of Louisiana…:

Cut 9 (09)  “…upon her.”

McKneely says the victim’s 8-year-old sister was waiting in the teen girls’ car, while the assault was occurring in Allen’s vehicle. He says the victim did the smartest thing next; she went straight home and then to a hospital, where a sexual assault kit was performed..:

Cut 10 (07) “…to a hospital.” 

The girl could not fight Allen off because he was so much bigger. The attack occurred in late May. A warrant was issued for Allen’s arrest in early June, and he was apprehended Wednesday and charged with sexual battery and 2^nd degree rape. McKneely says parents need to be aware of their children’s online activities…:

Cut 11 (09)  “…has happened.”

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The Great American Seafood Cook is Saturday in New Orleans and Amanda Cusey of Lake Charles will try to beat out 13 other chefs from around the country to be named the Queen of American Seafood. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says Cusey is the executive chef at Lake Charles’s “The Villa Harlequin”….

Cut 12 (09) “…and cheated.”  

Cusey received her Cordon Bleu training in England and worked at several restaurants in England Ireland until she became a head chef at Italian inspired pop-up restaurant in Dublin.

Opening ceremonies are at 11:15 at the New Orleans Convention Center and Nungesser says the cooks have a limited amount of time to cook up their best seafood dish in front of a live audience and nationally acclaimed judges…

Cut 13 (09) “…and tasting.”

Each dish will be scored based on presentation, creativity, composition, craftmanship and flavor. Biloxi, Mississippi chef Austin Sumrall won last year. Nungesser says it’s great to have tis competition in New Orleans, which has the best tasting seafood in the world…

Cut 14 (12)  “…our crabs.” 

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

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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

Cut 2 (30) “….I’m Marsanne Golsby.” 

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

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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

Cut 4 (08)  “…of chemotherapy.”

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

Cut 5 (09) “…are for you.”

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

Cut 6 (09)  “…is so exciting.”

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

Cut 7 (07) “….water levels increase.”

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

Cut 8 (10)  “…and  water management.”

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

Cut 9 (06)  “…and the transition.”

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

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

Cut 10 (08) “…we’ve had.”

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

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

Cut  11 (09)  “…taking the risk.” 

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

Cut 12 (10) “…their profit.” 

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

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

Cut 13 (07) “…prevent infection.”

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

Cut 14 (08)  “…New Orleans area.”

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

Cut 15 (10)  “…of others.”

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

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

Cut 16 (14)  “…so hard” .

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

Cut 17 (20) “..some fashion ” 

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

cut  18 (13) “   great spirits”

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

 cut 19 (19) _“…so far” 

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

Cut 20 (18) “ …the season” 

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

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher”  

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

Cut 3 (07) “…harden infrastructure.” 

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

Cut 4  (05) “…road elevations”

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

Cut 5  (11) “…rain”

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

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

Cut 6 (07) “…global marketplace.” 

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

Cut 7 (11) “…In Go-Zone parishes.” 

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

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

Cut 8 (09) “…to come write.”

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

Cut 9 (10)  “…the Saints.”

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

Cut 10 (10) “…it’s done.” 

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

Cut 11 (10)  “…to ASAP.”

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

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

Cut 12 (11) “…value of the losses”  

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

Cut 13 (04) “…their clients”

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

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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

Cut 2 (27) “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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

Cut 4 (11)  “…particular wind farm.”

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

Cut 5 (10) “…economically feasible.”

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

Cut 6 (12)  “…build a wind turbine.”

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

Cut 7 (09) “…difficult times.”

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

Cut 8 (12)  “…with that”

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

Cut 9 (07)  “…in the future.”

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

Cut 10 (12) “…to know.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cut 14 (13)  “…your claim processed.”

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

Cut 15 (09)  “…continue to do it.”

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

Cut 16 (16)  “….to be” .

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

Cut 17 (23) “…in the building” 

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

Cut 18 (20) “   about it”

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

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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

Cut 3 (10) “…14 weeks.” 

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

Cut 4  (11) “…defensive tactics”

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

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

Cut 5  (11) “…be out there.”

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

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

Cut 6 (11) “…lower court’s ruling” 

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

Cut 7 (08) “…law requires.” 

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

Cut 8 (05) “…not by the courts”

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

Cut 9 (12)  “…it’s also humbling.”

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

Cut 10 (11) “…I could stand here.” 

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

Cut 11 (09)  “…as they should be.”

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

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

Cut 12 (11) “…not be a good thing.”  

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

Cut 13 (10) “…driving in a car…”

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

Cut 14 (05)  “…this law as well.” 

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

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

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Cut 2 (31) “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Erik Piccoli.”

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

Cut 4 (10)  “…third time.”

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

Cut 5 (12) “…80 miles per hour”

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

Cut 6 (05)  “…driver behavior.”

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

Cut 7 (10) “…from our customers.”

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

Cut 8 (13)  “…who need assistance.”

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

Cut 9 (14)  “…present our bills.”

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

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

Cut 10 (09) “…products”

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

Cut  11 (12)  “…trying to say” 

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

Cut 12 (13) “…don’t probably need” 

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

Cut 13 (08) “…to recognize it.”

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

Cut 14 (12)  “…dirty, dirty thing.”

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

Cut 15 (11)  “…the numbers on that.”

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

Cut 16 (18)  “….our DNA”.

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

Cut 17 (15) “…make plays” 

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

Cut 18 (21) “   …anytime soon”