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

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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

Cut 3 (07) “…parishes.” 

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

Cut 4  (11) “…in the river parishes.”

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

Cut 5  (11) “…the river parishes.”

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

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

Cut 6 (14) “…that they have.” 

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

Cut 7 (12) “…to hire them.” 

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

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

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

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

Cut 9 (09)  “…customers.”

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

Cut 10 (13) “…whole year.” 

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

Cut 11 (10)  “…even five years ago.”

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

Cut 12 (12) “…goin’ all your way”   

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

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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

Cut 2 (33) “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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

Cut 4 (09)  “…good news”

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

Cut 5 (07) “…be strong”

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

Cut 6 (10)  “…as well.”

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

Cut 7 (10) “…this uhhh Wuhan Market.”

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

Cut 8 (11)  “…happened this time.”

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

Cut 9 (12)  “…from this uhhh market.”

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

Cut 10 (09) “…very attractive.”

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

Cut  11 (08)  “…unfortunately.” 

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

Cut 12 (10) “…get it done.” 

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

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

Cut 13 (08) “…the time.”

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

Cut 14 (10)  “…his phone.”

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

Cut 15 (07)  “…any clothing.”

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

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

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

Cut 16 (05)  “…very long”

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

Cut 17 (20) “…part of it.” 

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

Cut 18 (28) “ …football games” 

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

Cut 19 (29) _“…that room” 

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

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”  

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

Cut 3 (09) “…the economy” 

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

Cut 4  (10) “…the winter.”

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

Cut 5  (10) “…expenditures.”

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

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

Cut 6 (07) “…are very low.” 

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

Cut 7 (13) “…constituents satisfied.” 

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

Cut 8 (09) “…in the 2023 elections.”

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

Cut 9 (05) “…separate installments.”

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

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

Cut 10 (06) “…the benefits.” 

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

Cut 11 (05)  “…p-ebt card.”

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

Cut 12 (12) “…throughout the state”   

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

Cut 13 (12) “…made yesterday.”

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

Cut 14 (07)  “…spent wisely.” 

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

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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

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

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

Cut 3 (32) “…I’mMichelle Southern.”

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

Cut 4 (12)  “…fed up with it.”

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

Cut 5 (09) “…far left agenda.”

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

Cut 6 (10)  “…struggling right now.”

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

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

Cut 7 (12) “…reasonable.”

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

Cut 8 (13)  “…those shares.”

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

Cut 9 (08)  “…like that.”

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

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

Cut 10 (11) “…facing today.”

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

Cut  11 (12)  “…incest.” 

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

Cut 12 (12) “…political decision.” 

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

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

Cut 13 (08) “…we’re excited.”

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

Cut 14 (14)  “…at LSU”

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

Cut 15 (13)  “… of that program”

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

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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

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

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

Cut 3 (12) “…with adult prisons.” 

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

Cut 4  (09) “…also be illegal.”

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

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

Cut 5  (10) “…higher needs youth.”

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

Cut 6 (12) “…fragile wetlands.” 

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

Cut 7 (10) “…the communities.” 

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

Cut 8 (12) “..persevered”

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

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

Cut 9 (10) “…question marks.”

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

Cut 10 (08) “…preseason teams” 

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

Cut 11 (06)  “…get it done”

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

Cut 12 (12) “…next year.”   

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

Cut 13 (11) “…concerns are.”

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

Cut 14 (07)  “…to bear arms.” 

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

Cut 15 (09) “…operation.” 

The BA-dot-5 variant is keeping the current surge of COVID in Louisiana on track to becoming one of the longest. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Louisiana Bond Commission withholds funding for the New Orleans water and sewerage board over the city’s threat not to enforce state laws that ban abortions. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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With news of President Biden testing positive for COVID today it’s also reflective of case counts and coronavirus hospitalizations on the rise in Louisiana. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says the Bayou State is still in its sixth surge that started about two months ago and it’s on track to be one of the longest upticks in cases.

Cut 3 (07) “…transmissible variant” 

Kanter says the current surge would have most likely ended had it not been for the BA-dot-5 variant.

Today the state reports more than 34-hundred additional COVID cases but Kanter says that’s not necessarily reflective of the actual amount of COVID circulating in Louisiana.

Cut 4  (07) “…to testing.”

And while the BA-dot-5 variant is highly transmissible Kanter says it’s not necessarily virulent and hospitalizations remain low, at 747 when you compare them to case counts.

And after 28 months Kanter says COVID fatigue has definitely set in.

Cut 5  (11) “…get it again.”

According to John Hopkins School of Public Health symptoms of the BA-dot-5 include sore throat, and fatigue, but they are less likely to report fevers and/or loss of taste and smell

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Senator Bill Cassidy’s bicameral bill to provide the state bigger revenue shares of offshore energy developed passed the U.S. Senate Energy committee this morning. Cassidy says it’s called the Reinvesting in Shoreline Economies & Ecosystems Act, aka RISE…:

Cut 6 (10) “…restore that coastline.” 

Cassidy says the bill will lift a cap on state revenue sharing (currently at $375-million a year), and create a revenue sharing mechanism for offshore wind energy..:

Cut 7 (11) “…other coastal states.” 

The bill is co-authored by Rhode Island Democrat Senator Sheldon Whitehouse. Ten other senators have signed on as co-sponsors. Cassidy says the bill would remove limits on how much annual revenue sharing can flow into the state, and that money can be put to important use…:

Cut 8 (12) “…to natural resources.”

Cassidy says the bill is essential for rebuilding Louisiana’s coast and protecting against Gulf storms.  It goes next to the Senate floor.

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The Louisiana Bond Commission has voted to withhold 39-million dollars in non-cash line of credit for a sewerage and water board project. It’s in response to city officials pledge they would not enforce state laws that ban abortion. Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin serves on the Bond Commission is in full support of withholding the money

Cut 9 (12) “…be impeached.”

A representative from Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry’s office made the recommendation to withhold the money in response to New Orleans city officials saying that abortion laws would not be enforced. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne voted against delaying this funding…

Cut 10 (09) “…correct vote” 

State Treasurer John Schroder is the chairman of the Bond Commission and voted to withhold the non-cash line of credit, but expressed his displeasure that the Attorney General’s office is using the Bond Commission to send a message to a city….

Cut 11 (11)  “…to get on.”

The Bond Commission will consider again next month whether to release the 39-million to the Sewerage and Water Board plant. A Baton Rouge judge has blocked the law the state’s abortion ban from going into effect.

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Today it’s northeast Louisiana under an excessive heat warning as heat indices are reaching 114-degrees. State Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says this excessive heat has been helping to burn up the land, literally…

Cut 12 (11) “…getting dry”   

Strain says corn and soybean farmers are working to make sure their crops do not burn up in this heat…

Cut 13 (12) “..of the heat”

Some parts of the state are seeing rain cooling showers and thunderstorms in the afternoon. Strain says that causes another problem, mosquitos…

Cut 14 (12)  “…eastern encephalitis.” 

Republican US Senator John Kennedy is being challenged by three democrats in his re-election campaign for his second term. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (42) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Louisiana has updated its Highway Safety Plan after nearly one-thousand motorists were killed in car crashes last year, a 17-percent increase from the year before. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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Qualifying for the U-S Senate race got underway this morning and the first one to sign up, Republican incumbent John Kennedy. Kennedy is finishing up his first term and believes his voting record represents the values of Louisiana

Cut 3 (07) “…116th Congress” 

Kennedy has a huge fundraising advantage over his opponents….

Cut 4  (09) “…message out.”

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Baton Rouge activist Gary Chambers who’s best know for his campaign video that went viral where he’s smoking marijuana officially filed for to run for US Senate as a Democrat against Republican John Kennedy. Chambers was present when  Kennedy addressed the media and had this response.

Cut 5  (16) “…lives in.”

Chambers also had a gift for his opponent, he planned to present the state’s junior senator with a spray bottle of Round-up.

Cut 6 (10) “…next time” 

Chambers ran for Congress last year to fill New Orleans Representative Cedric Richmond’s seat when he left to work for the Biden administration but failed to make the runoff by 15-hundred votes against Troy Carter.

____________________________________________

Political newcomer Luke Mixon also filed to run as a Democrat against Kennedy. The former Top Gun Naval pilot called out Kennedy for not standing up for democracy when Trump supporters stormed the Capitol.

Cut 7 (12) “…to lie.” 

Mixon who also took an oath to uphold the Constitution when he served in the military, says he’s often asked why he’s running against Kennedy…

Cut 8 (13) “…to defend.”

The Bunkie native also criticized Kennedy for voting against the infrastructure bill and while he supports the Second Amendment, Mixon believes there should be red flag gun laws to keep those with mental illness from hurting others and themselves.

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Sylvia Taylor filed on behalf of her daughter Syrita Steib who is the third democrat hoping to unseat Kennedy. Taylor shared that Steib served time in prison but since completing her sentence she’s gone forward to help others.

Cut 9 (13) “…years before.”

Taylor says Steib’s platform includes a focus on infrastructure, education, women’s rights, energy and democracy. Taylor says her daughter’s life serves as an inspiration for her and others.

Cut 10 (10) “…the drive.” 

Stieb served over nine years in federal prison for her role in robbing and burning down a car dealership.

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The state is updating its Strategic Highway Safety Plan after nearly one-thousand people were killed in crash crashes in 2021. Based on preliminary data, 971 motorists died, a 17-percent increase from 2020. Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Executive Director Lisa Freeman says that’s the highest percentage increase in one year since crash fatality records have been kept

Cut 11 (12)  “…community crisis.”

Increasing education efforts, strengthening laws and public policies to prohibit risky behaviors such as distracted driving and increasing accountability through enforcement are some of the strategies the state will deploy to reduce fatal crashes. State Police Superintendent Lamar Davis says they are committed to this effort

Cut 12 (12) “…negative behavior.”   

Governor John Bel Edwards says he sees way too many drivers looking at their phone instead of the road

Cut 13 (12) “..or whatever.”

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A 15-year-old girl died last night in a single vehicle crash in St. James Parish. State Police Trooper Ross Brennan says a 17-year-old was behind the wheel on LA Highway 18 when he failed to stay on the road…

Cut 14 (10)  “…overturn.” 

The driver and his two juvenile passengers were not buckled up and they were ejected from the Honda Accord. 15-year-old Ramiya Sowell of St. James died at a Baton Rouge area hospital, while the driver and other passenger sufffered moderate injuries. Brennan says seat belts could have saved a life

Cut 15 (07) “…crash.” 

After multiple escapes from the Bridge City Center for Youth, the governor announces an investigation of the Office of Juvenile Justice.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Qualifying for the fall federal midterm elections begins today. Jeff Palermo takes a look at what we might see…:

Cut 2 (32) “….I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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In addition to statewide races there are plenty of key local races with the potential to heat up. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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After numerous escapes from the Bridge City Center for Youth, some of the inmates will be moved to Angola. Governor John Bel Edwards made the announcement Tuesday after a weekend in which six inmates escaped from the Jefferson Parish facility.

Cut 4 (12)  “…adult inmates.”

While some inmates will be housed at Angola the Bridge City facility will remain open but with additional security. Edwards says after everything that has happened it’s clear the Bridge City campus cannot continue to operate as it has.

Cut 5 (08) “…an option.”

Edwards says the Bridge City building is outdated and not properly equipped to serve as a youth facility and more security personnel will be provided in addition to the increase that was added last month. He says Office of Juvenile Justice will continue to oversee operations and while the situation is not ideal…

Cut 6 (12)  “…the community.”

An initial review shows that there were numerous deficiencies and failures that contributed to the escape of six juveniles.

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Qualifying for the fall federal midterm elections begins today, at the Secretary of state’s Office in Baton Rouge. Candidates for the state’s six congressional seats, plus one U.S. Senate race, are expected to qualify over the next three days. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says five of six congressional races should be shoe-ins for the incumbents. But in District 3, Clay Higgins has an announced Republican challenger. Pinsonat says the race could become interesting…:

Cut 7 (10) “…get re-elected.”

Pinsonat says he expects all incumbents will have a challenger of some kind, but doubts any will have the money or support to win this fall. In the U.S. Senate race, John Kennedy seeks another term, but is challenged by Democrats Gary Chambers, Luke Mixon and Syrita Steib. Pinsonat feels they are “spinning their wheels”…:

Cut 8 (10)  “…in a red state.”

Pinsonat says qualifying over the next few days may yield a surprise or two, but he gives the edge to the incumbents in the fall elections. He says the midterms will be a hotly contested affair nationally, but expects Louisiana’s election results will have little effect on any major changes in Congress…:

Cut 9 (10)  “…control of the House.”

Qualifying begins today and ends Friday afternoon.

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While today is first day for candidates to qualify for statewide office on the November ballot, there are also several key local races that are heating up.  “LAPolitics.com” publisher Jeremy Alford says Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins will be challenged by State Senator Greg Tarver who announced his candidacy from his family funeral home.

Cut 10 (08) “…in a casket”

Alford says even though Perkins is the incumbent he’s viewed as a vulnerable after his failed US Senate bid in the middle of his mayoral term.

In Alexandria, incumbent Mayor Jeff Hall recently said he’ll run for re-election and Alford says he’ll be challenged by the previous mayor.

Cut  11 (05)  “..this week.” 

Alford says it will be a jammed packed ballot with several judicial races, including a Supreme Court judge race.

Cut 12 (12) “…lot going on.” 

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Chemical giant BASF announces a $780-million project that will double production capacity at its plant in Geismar, in Ascension Parish. BASF Senior VP and plant manager Jeremy Lebold (LEE-bold) says, when complete they will produce 600-thousands metric TONs of methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (or MDI) annually…:

Cut 13 (13) “…every single day.”

(Chemical is pronounced: METH-ih-leen die-PHEEN-ill die-EYE-so-sigh-uh-nate. You’re welcome…:))

Lebold says this is the third part of a three-phase expansion of BASF’s MDI manufacturing facility. He says the investment will help them retain over 1000 existing employees and create nearly 40 new direct jobs…:

Cut 14 (13)  “…a billion dollars.”

Lebold says the expansion should be complete by sometime in 2025, and when done it will be one of the largest producers of MDI in America. He says the jobs created and jobs retained have a great pay scale at a great company…:

Cut 15 (12)  “…for one another.”

Louisiana Economic Development says the BASF expansion will also create about 150 new indirect jobs.

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The three LSU players that were at SEC Media Days, Mike Jones, Jack Bech and BJ Ojulari raved about the new coaching staff. Jones says he’s very impressed with new defensive coordinator Matt House

Cut 16 (16)  “…be done.”

LSU’s defensive line is expected to be a strength this season and edge rusher B-J Oljulari says there’s a lot of talent with that position group

Cut 17 (22) “…D-Line chemistry” 

N-I-L has been around for over a year in college athletics as players are now able to receive cash for endorsement deals. That means some players are making more than others, but wide receiver Jack Bech says that does not create any dissension…

Cut 18 (18) “ …gets in our way” 

Lafayette prosecutor Holden Hoggatt announces he will challenge Third District Louisiana Congressman Clay Higgins. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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With inflation continuing to rise, more Louisianans face having to cut other spending in order to make needed back-to-school purchases. More from Brooke Thorington…:

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

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There’s an Excessive Heat Warning for north Louisiana today. C.S. Ross with the National Weather Service in Shreveport says conditions outside will be dangerous from Shreveport to Monroe and northward.

Cut 3 (12) “…hot today.” 

And there’s a Heat Advisory for Natchitoches to Jena.

While most Louisianans are used to extreme hot temperature, if you’re thinking this summer so far has been a bit warmer than others, Ross says you’re correct.

Cut 4  (05) “…summer of 2011.”

Ross says later in the week north Louisiana will see a drop in temperatures and possibly a scattered shower or two but not enough to relieve drought-like conditions in the area. But in the meantime, try to say inside as much as possible.

Cut 5  (09) “…the heat.”

Ross says heat indices could reach up to 115 in some areas in north Louisiana today.

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On the eve of qualifying for the federal elections, Lafayette prosecutor Holden Hoggatt has announced he will challenge Third District Congressman Clay Higgins. Both men are Republicans. La-politics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says Hoggatt has never run for political office before

Cut 6 (12) “…back it up” 

Higgins is seeking his fourth term and has the endorsement of the Louisiana Republican Party. But Alford says Hoggatt looks like a formidable challenger and Higgins will need to take him seriously….

Cut 7 (12) “…this time.” 

Hoggatt’s financial resources are unclear at this time, while Higgins reported 258-thousand dollars on hand. Alford says that’s the lowest figure among Louisiana’s six incumbent members of Congress….

Cut 8 (10) “…whole lot of dough.”

Qualifying for Louisiana’s six Congressional races and U-S Senate race involving the incumbent John Kennedy, begins Wednesday and runs through Friday. The primaries are November 8th.

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Louisiana claims top ranking for the highest number of high school seniors who’ve completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, also known as FAFSA. Chief Operating Officer for the Louisiana Department of Education Ken Bradford credits educators and counselors for the ranking.

Cut 9 (09) “…college and career.”

The National College Access Network (NCAN) tracks applications in the US and Louisiana has consistently been in the top two for the last five years. Bradford says FAFSA completion is also required for high school seniors in Louisiana to receive TOPS consideration.

Cut 10 (10) “…etc.” 

To date 67-percent of Louisiana’s Class of 2022 has completed their FAFSA application and Bradford is already encouraging the Class of 2023 to keep Louisiana in first place.

Cut 11 (09)  “…start planning.”

According to NCAN, 84-percent of high school seniors who complete a FAFSA are more likely to enroll in post-secondary education.

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With inflation continuing to rise, more people face having to cut back on spending in order to make needed back-to-school and college purchases. Katherine Cullen, with the National Retail Federation, says spending this year is expected to match or exceed 2021’s record high spending for the fall school term, but many have to pinch pennies to get it done…:

Cut 12 (05) “…for the season.”   

The NRF’s annual survey of back-to-school & college shopping shows more families will cut back on discretionary spending, buy only on-sale or off-brand items or even used items where possible. She says costs of most everything have been escalating over the past two years…:

Cut 13 (07) “..before the pandemic.”

Cullen says back-to-school shoppers are starting early, to spread the expense out over more weeks of income. She says vacations may be curtailed or even cancelled, because NOT making back-to-school purchases is really not an option…:

Cut 14 (06)  “…to be replaced.”