There’s been an increase in COVID infections among Louisiana nursing home residents. Kevin Gallagher reports COVID deaths have also increased…:

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The Louisiana Department of Health launches 988 as the phone number to dial for suicide prevention to help those in crisis. Don Molino has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Don Molino.”  

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For a second straight month, COVID-19 infections and deaths are increasing among Louisianans living in nursing homes. Two deaths were reported for the month of May 2022, but for that number jumped to seven for June. Andrew Muhl is Policy Director for AARP Louisiana. He says the elderly are more at risk from COVID than anyone…:

Cut 3 (11) “…in nursing homes.” 

Nursing home resident COVIDs cases are up 27-percent nationwide. Cases among nursing home staffs are up 42-percent. Currently in Louisiana, just over 650 seniors in nursing homes are suffering COVID symptoms. Muhl says the best way to mitigate COVID symptoms is to get the shots…:

Cut 4  (07) “…fully vaccinated.”

Muhl says many nursing home residents COULD be catching the virus from the people who work at the facility and take care of them…:

Cut 5  (09) “…still out there.”

Muhl says AARP is imploring nursing home employees and residents to get COVID shots and any needed boosters. Since the pandemic began, nearly 33-hundred Louisiana nursing home residents have died from COVID-19.

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The Louisiana Office of Juvenile Justice continues to be plagued with incidents. The most recent was at the Bridge City Center for Youth in Jefferson Parish, where six teens escaped early Sunday morning. All six have been recaptured but Marrero Senator Patrick Connick questions if the extra personnel to assist OJJ is in effect.

Cut 6 (12) “…enough, enough?” 

One of the escapees stole two vehicles and injured an individual during the exchange.

Connick says while the inmates are juveniles he believes those charged with violent crimes belong in better equipped facility. Connick says the Bridge City Center is designed as a dormitory to house teens facing truancy charges.

Cut 7 (10) “…individuals.” 

After multiple escapes from youth facilities in Louisiana, the OJJ was given extra personnel, but Connick says he’s reached out to both the governor and OJJ asking why juveniles continue to escape.

Cut 8 (10) “…gotta stop.”

Connick says the OJJ told him they are meeting today to address the issue.

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988 has been designated as the new three-digit number to dial for suicide prevention. The number is active in Louisiana and Karen Stubbs, Assistant Secretary with the Office of Behavioral Health at LDH says it’s vital to help those in crisis.

Cut 9 (11) “…level of 911.”

Stubbs says if you dial 988 in Louisiana it’s routed to a local crisis center. She says their office wanted to be sure it’s answered quickly and by trained individuals.

Cut 10 (11) “…our culture.” 

There are two 988 call centers in Louisiana, one in northern part of the state and the other covering southern Louisiana. Stubbs says if one is receiving an influx of calls, the other center acts as a backup.

According to the CDC, suicide is the 12^th leading cause of death and in 2020 more than 600 Louisianans took their own life. Stubbs says 988 hopes to change that and even if someone isn’t actively suicidal, they are there to help.

Cut 11 (08)  “…seeking assistance.”

All calls to 988 are free and confidential.

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In Baton Rouge, 19^th JDC Judge Don Johnson extends the temporary order allowing abortion clinics to remain open; telling state Attorney General Jeff Landry to provide him more information on the case, which he’ll review tomorrow and then render a decision. Outside the courthouse, with protesters in the background, Landry had this reaction…:

Cut 12 (07) “…couple of weeks ago.”   

Under Johnson’s temporary restraining order blocking the trigger law, abortion clinics are currently open. Landry says he’s certain that – no matter what Judge Johnson decides – there will be further challenges and the case will ultimately be decided by the state Supreme Court…:

Cut 13 (08) “..effectively as possible.”

(FOR AFFILIATES: here is nat sound of pro-choice protesters in Baton Rouge shouting, ”racist, sexist, anti-gay…A.G. Landry go away!”)

Cut 14 (09)  “…go away!!” 

A Baton Rouge judge will hear arguments  for and against blocking the state’s abortion ban trigger law, which is currently on hold. More from Don Molino on today’s hearing…:

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Don Molino.”

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 Qualifying for the federal elections in November begins Wednesday, but Louisiana is looking at a quiet election season. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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SEC Football Media Days begin today in Atlanta. Many fans consider it the start of the college football season…

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Today in Baton Rouge, a judge will hear arguments on a petition to block the state’s abortion trigger law from taking effect. A New Orleans judge punted the case back to the Capital City. Last week, 19^th JDC Judge Don Johnson order the law on hold, pending the outcome of this morning’s hearing. Loyola University law professor Dane Ciolino says the judge has an important task to decide…:

Cut 4 (13)  “…indeterminate”

The suit was filed by the Center for Reproductive Rights immediately after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, triggering Louisiana’s law into effect. Plaintiff say the law is too vague, and make that argument today. Ciolino thinks the hearing will NOT go their way…:

Cut 5 (09) “…illegal in Louisiana.”

If the judge rules against the plaintiffs, Ciolino says they will undoubtedly file another challenge. However, he feels they are just delaying the inevitable…:

Cut 6 (12)  “…not vague”

That hearing is this morning in downtown Baton Rouge.

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Qualifying for the federal elections in November will get underway on Wednesday at the Secretary of State’s office in Baton Rouge. Republican Senator John Kennedy and the state’s six U-S House members are up for re-election and expected to win. La-politics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says that’s by design…

Cut 7 (11) “…the incumbent”

Alford says if there’s a race to watch, it might be the third Congressional District, as Clay Higgins is seeking his fourth term, but he might face a formidable candidate…

Cut 8 (10)  “…community leaders.”

Higgins has faced criticism for not helping to secure federal hurricane recovery dollars for southwest Louisiana in a timely manner.

Kennedy is seeking a second term as U-S Senator and there are at least two Democratic challengers that are active on social media who plan to oppose him. Reverend Tony Spell in East Baton Rouge told the Advocate newspaper he’s thinking about running against Kennedy as a Republican, but Alford says that’s unlikely

Cut 9 (12)  “…never know.”

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A well-known Lafayette eatery is ranked by The Food Network as one of America’s finest barbecue joints and THE best barbecue in Louisiana. The TV network highlighted the brisket and pulled pork at Johnson’s Boucaniere (boo-ken-YAIR) in downtown Lafayette. Proprietor Lori Johnson Walls says she cannot reveal the secret to their tasty barbecue; a special recipe rub made by her husband…:

Cut 10 (09) “…eleven to twelve hours.”

In Cajun French, a “boucaniere” is, basically, a smokehouse. Walls says they get rave reviews for their Cajun smoked sausage, ribs, boudin and, of course, barbecue. The restaurant was recently named among Food Network’s “50 States of Barbecue”; a list of the very finest across the U.S. Walls says their success is a real team effort…:

Cut  11 (09)  “..to them as well.” 

Originally founded in Eunice by Lori’s grandfather, Johnson’s Boucaniere has been around since 1937 but is now located on St. John Street, near downtown Lafayette. You may want to drop by and try their bill of fare. Walls says their model for success is “make it great, make it consistent and make it with love”…:

Cut 12 (11) “…barbecued at home.” 

Walls says they’re very honored by The Food Network’s accolades, which she calls “an awesome surprise.”

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SEC Football Media Days kick-off today in Atlanta, the unofficial start of the college football season. LSU Football Coach Brian Kelly speaks today and Tiger Rag Editor Tim Buckley says Kelly will get a bunch of questions about his three-way battle for starting quarterback

Cut 13 (11) “…to start.”

Kelly downplayed the idea of playing two quarterbacks in a game when asked during spring football, but Buckley says it’s an idea the coach could be warming up to

Cut 14 (12)  “…change of pace guy.”

Before Kelly and the rest of the SEC coaches speech, Commissioner Greg Sankey will give his state of the league address. Buckley says Sankey will discuss the NIL and transfer portal issues and possible expansion now that USC and UCLA are heading to the Big 10…

Cut 15 (10)  “…it grow”

The U.S. House passes a new defense spending bill containing a lot of money for Louisiana military bases. More from Don Molino…:

Cut 1 (28) “…I’m Don Molino.”

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The state Department of Health says more cases of monkeypox are turning up. Kevin Gallagher reports all cases so far are in and around New Orleans…:

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”  

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State Police is seeking the public’s help in finding a gunman who exited a vehicle and fatally shot one person and injured two others in Richland Parish. Master Trooper Javier Leija says the fatal shooting took place late Wednesday afternoon in Delhi…

Cut 3 (10) “…black male” 

Leija says they are searching for a Chevrolet Tahoe that was involved in the shooting…

Cut 4  (12) “…with Quattrous”

22-year-old Quattrous Jones of Delhi was pronounced dead at the scene. The other two victims suffered non-life threatening injuries and were treated at a local hospital. Leija says if anyone has information they should contact the North Delta Crime Stoppers…

Cut 5  (11) “…0000”

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The U.S. House has passed a new National Defense Authorization Act; a spending bill containing hundreds-of-millions for projects Louisiana military facilities. Louisiana District 4 Congressman Mike Johnson is on a House Armed services sub-committee. He says it’s pleasing to see substantial investments at bases so important to the state’s fiscal picture…:

Cut 6 (13) ” …important to us.” 

The NDAA for the 2023 federal fiscal year contains an additional $61-million to build a new Joint Operations Center at Fort Polk, and $125-million for the planned Weapons Generating Facility at Barksdale. Johnson explain why the WGY is needed…:

Cut 7 (11) “…in the Dakotas.” 

When deployed, Barksdale’s B-52 have to first fly to Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota to receive their bomb payload, before proceeding on mission. The WGY will cut mission time, by having those munitions available at Barksdale. Johnson expects the defense bill will go to the President’s desk without a partisan fight…:

Cut 8 (08) “…funding the military.”

The Senate must now pass it’s version of the bill.

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Many Entergy customers are seeing higher electricity bills this summer. The utility company warned its customers before the summer started that their utility bill will go up, because of storm repairs and higher natural gas costs. Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell still believes the power company is charging ratepayers too much…

Cut 9 (11) “..sympathy.”

But fellow Public Service Commissioner Eric Skrmetta told Fox 8 TV in New Orleans that Louisiana has some of the lowest rates in the nation. But Campbell believes rates would go down in Louisiana if Entergy didn’t have a monopoly on most of the state…

Cut 10 (12) “…do something.” 

Campbell says he’s upset rising energy prices are making it difficult on Louisiana families, while Entergy’s stockholders and CEO see more money….

Cut 11 (12)  “..17 million a year.”

Entergy says it can not stop paying dividends to its shareholders.

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President Joe Biden is in Saudi Arabi where he’ll urge the Middle Eastern country to produce more oil. Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy says the President doesn’t have to travel halfway across the globe in order to increase the supply of oil….

Cut 12 (12) “…North American Energy Production”   

National media reports say it’s unlikely Saudi Arabia will quickly react to the President’s request, instead any potential announcement would wait until next month when OPEC-plus meets. Cassidy says the President would get faster and better results if he wasn’t determined to stop domestic oil and gas production…

Cut 13 (12) “..Louisiana jobs”

The Biden administration has placed restrictions on fossil fuel development in the United States as a way to combat climate change. But Cassidy asks would you rather want Saudi Arabi to produce the oil or America…

Cut 14 (09)  “.and oil ” 

With inflation reaching a 40-year high, is an economic breaking point coming for families? A top Louisiana economist says “yes.” Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 1 (28) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Former New Orleans senator and Louisiana Democratic Party Chairwoman, Karen Carter Peterson, is expected to enter a guilty plea in federal court on allegations she used campaign and party dollars on gambling. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Inflation has surged again, with June figures showing a 9-percent increase over this time last year; reflecting a 40-year high. As prices rise higher, are we nearing some kind of breaking point? A top Louisiana economist says “yes.” In an interview with WWL Radio, LSU Professor Jim Richardson (retired) says he cannot say when, but something will have to give eventually…:

Cut 3 (07) “…will not be forever.” 

He says prices are rising faster than wages, and that can’t sustain. Should such an economic breaking point occur, Richardson says it probably will be felt worst by lower income earners…:

Cut 4  (15) “…for that to happen.”

Richardson says another economic recession is unavoidable, but can’t say how bad it might be. He feels inflation will eventually slow or even reverse, if enough consumers are forced, by increased cost of living, to significantly curtail spending…:

Cut 5  (08) “…right there.”

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The U-S Attorney’s Office has charged former state senator and chairwoman of the Louisiana Democratic Party, Karen Carter Peterson, with wire fraud. Peterson is accused of using thousands of dollars in campaign and party funds for personal use, including gambling-related expenses. Peterson is expected to enter a guilty plea and legal analyst Tim Meche says that’s really her only option…

Cut 6 (06) ” …like that.” 

Peterson resigned from the Louisiana Senate in April and said she needs to focus on her recovery from a gambling addiction. The fraud charges carry a sentence of up to 20 years, but Meche says in recent years judges have taken into account that a gambling addiction is a disease…

Cut 7 (10) “…those situations.” 

Court records show the case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Sarah Vance. Meche says when it comes down to sentencing, Judge Vance will have to determine if Peterson’s actions are a character flaw or wrong decisions were made based on a gambling addiction….

Cut 8 (12) “…incarceration.”

Peterson was the chairwoman of the Louisiana Democratic Party from 2012 to 2020. She represented Orleans Parish in the Louisiana Legislature 1999 to 2022. Peterson issued a statement that says she made a full repayment of funds used as a result of her addiction and will continue to make amends. She also says she’s been fully cooperative with federal prosecutors.

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Like the rest of American, Louisiana has a shortage of professional truck drivers, and women are encouraged to take up a career on the road. Louisiana Motor Transport Association executive director Renee Amar says females make up a little over half the U.S. workforce, yet they are under-represented in trucking…:

Cut 9 (10) “..being female drivers.”

There are currently thousand of professional trucking jobs available in the U.S.  Amar says many do consider driving a truck a “man’s job”, but women can be just as skilled at the profession…:

Cut 10 (11) “…detail-oriented.” 

Amar says females only make up about 10-percent of professional truckers, but perhaps it’s time for that to change…:

Cut 11 (11)  “..jobs out there.”

She’d like to see a nationwide campaign to recruit women into truck driving. To know more, visit “lmta.la” on the Web.

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New Iberia’s Kayshon Boutte will wear number seven for the LSU Football Tigers. It’s tradition for the team’s most dynamic player to wear the jersey number seven. Tiger Rag Editor Tim Buckley says there were concerns after Brian Kelly was hired as a head coach that the talented wide receiver may transfer to another school…

Cut 12 (09) “…the program”  

After catching 45 passes in his freshman season, Boutte played in six games last season and caught nine touchdown passes before suferring a season-ending ankle injury. Buckley says LSU is expecting a big season from the potential first round draft pick

Cut 13 (10) “…for them”

A Houma woman and her boyfriend face first-degree murder charges after her toddler was found dead in a trash can. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The widow of Edwin Edwards spoke candidly about her new love, one year after the death of the former four-term governor. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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The state health department is reporting two new cases of monkeypox infection in Louisiana. Both of the infected individuals are from the New Orleans area and this brings the total number of monkeypox cases to three. State Health officer Doctor Joe Kanter on the symptoms of monkeypox

Cut 3 (11) ” …blisters” 

The C-D-C says monkeypox can spread from person-to-person through direct contact with the infectious rash.

Cut 4  (13) “..more than three hours”

Monkeypox is considered a cousin of small pox and Kanter says the vaccines available for smallpox can be used to prevent monkeypox…

Cut 5  (12) “…smallpox”

LDH is working with the CDC and the patients’ healthcare providers to identify and notify individuals in Louisiana who may have been in contact with the patients while they were infectious.

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State Police in Troop I report a child riding without proper restraints was killed Monday in a single-vehicle crash on state Highway 91 in Acadia Parish. Trooper First Class Thomas Gossen says a pickup driven by 44-year-old Carla Lacombe, of Eunice, lost control and went into a spin and overturned, after hitting a culvert…:

Cut 6 (07) ” …result of the crash.” 

Trooper Gossen says 8-year-old Macy Guidry was riding in the front seat of the crew cab pickup, and was not wearing seatbelt or in a booster seat. She was ejected from the vehicle and did not survive. He says an investigation of the crash is underway, and there may be charges for the driver…:

Cut 7 (13) “…8-year-old was not.” 

Gossen says troopers do not suspect impairment in the crash, but haven’t ruled out distracted driving. He says Lacombe and a teen passenger in the rear seat were wearing restraints, and were treated for minor injuries. Gossen says seatbelts reduce one’s chances of being ejected from a vehicle by well over 50-percent. He says wearing a belt, and being in the back seat, would have saved the girl’s life…:

Cut 8 (07) “…see often.”

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Police in Houma say a local woman and her boyfriend are facing first degree murder charges, after officers found the remains of her 2-year-old son in a trash can. Houma Police Chief Dana Coleman says the couple initially said the child was abducted, but evidence collected implicates them…:

Cut 9 (12) “..black duffel bag.”

In custody are 28-year-old Maya Jones and 37-year-old Jermaine Robinson. Coleman says they had problems with Jones’ story from the onset and suspected foul play once they saw holes in her story. Terrebonne Parish District Attorney Joseph Waitz says its shocks the conscience that this kind of abuse would go on

Cut 10 (07) “…is taken.” 

Waitz says this is potentially a death penalty case…

Cut 11 (12)  “..to me” 

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The widow of former governor Edwin Edwards opened up about her new romantic relationship during an interview on Talk Louisiana with Jim Engster. 43-year-old Trina Edwards who was at the side of Edwards when he died at the age of 93 last year, is now dating former House Speaker and Senate President John Alario, who is 78….

Cut 12 (11) “…pretty well so”  

Trina Edwards believes Edwin Edwards would approve her relationship with Alario. The politicians were at allies at the state capitol. Trina Edwards says she and the late governor would talk often about who she would marry after his passing…

Cut 13 (11) “…do what you want”

Trina Edwards says they’ve been dating for six months and their relationship blossomed after she went to a Saints game with him in early January…

Cut 14 (08)  “.was it” 

A new report shows small business owners hold little hope for the economy – and their businesses – to improve anytime soon. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The National Hurricane Center says its less likely a trough along the Gulf Coast will develop into a tropical depression. LRN Meteorologist John Wetherbee gives us an update….

Cut 2 (32) “….I-10 corridor.” 

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Is the poor economy hurting Louisiana’s real estate market? Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Small businesses in Louisiana have a bleak outlook for better business and economic conditions for the near-future. National Federation of Independent Business state director Dawn McVea says their periodic Optimism Index survey of members has dropped nearly 4 points; meaning members fear thing aren’t going to improve anytime soon…:

Cut 4 (10)  “…unfortunate to see that.”

McVea say fewer member businesses feel sales will increase in the near-term. Over half say they cannot fill open jobs. An increasing number feel they cannot raise their prices fast enough to keep up with runaway inflation. She says members point their collective finger at the White House…:

Cut 5 (07) “…killing small business.”

McVea says member say supply chain issues, inflated costs and high fuel prices are combining to make their outlook for future months poor. She says many do not dare raise their prices further to compensate…:

Cut 6 (08)  “…live with that.”

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A Baton Rouge pro-life women’s clinic was vandalized Monday, and a Louisiana right-to-life group hopes the perpetrators will be caught and prosecuted. The Women’s New Life Clinic was covered in spray painted graffiti. Messages read “abortion is a right”, “fake clinic” and more. Pro-Life Louisiana spokesperson Sarah Zagorski says no one was hurt, but the incident is sad and unfortunate…:

Cut 7 (08) “….absolutely horrific.”

The Women’s New Life Clinic offers medical and mental health care to pregnant women who do not wish to abort their baby. They also offer gynecological care, STD testing & care and more. Other graffiti messages sprayed on the clinic Monday slammed police, and still others read “Jane’s Revenge.” Zagorski explains the significance of the latter…:

Cut 8 (12)  “…of the building as well.”

Zagorski says the vandals were trying to intimidate women away from using the clinic, which she calls a form of urban terrorism. She says pro-abortion activists are actually oppressing women while saying they advocate for them…:

Cut 9 (11)  “…parenting or adoption.”

She says Pro-Life Louisiana hopes law enforcement will investigate & arrest and the D.A will prosecute.

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The start of the high school volleyball and football seasons is right around the corner and the Louisiana High School Association is facing a shortage in referees. LHSAA assistant executive director Lee Sanders says they need at least four-thousand officials…

Cut 10 (12) “…play sports.”

Sanders says instead of Friday night lights for football, more and more games are being scheduled for Thursday and Saturday to ensure they will have enough game officials. He says there are a lot of benefits in being a referee…

Cut  11 (12)  “…travel” 

Football officials can make at least 72 to 100-dollars a game, plus travel, a volleyball referee can earn at least 60-dollars a match plus travel.

Sanders says one of the issues they face is losing new officials after working games for just a year or two…

Cut 12 (10) “…better training” 

For more information on becoming a referee, go to the Louisiana High School Officials Association page on the LHSAA website.

The deadline to register to be an official for volleyball and football is next month.

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Louisiana’s real estate market appears to be slowing down, as interest rates rise and inflation affects the cost of everything else. Kristin Courville is a realtor in the Capital Region. She says she is definitely seeing more listings on the market…:

Cut 13 (09) “…to two days pending.”

Courville says the inventory of available homes in increasing, and homes are on the market longer than, say, a year ago. She says recent hikes in interest rates – coupled with high costs for gasoline and groceries – are giving many potential buyers cold feet…:

Cut 14 (09)  “…dating the rate.”

Courville says mortgage rates are higher, but buyers can always refinance to a lower rate when the economy improves…:

Cut 15 (07)  “…to creep up.”

Courville says the real estate market has slowed a bit, and some sellers are reducing asking prices…but overall, there is no cause for alarm. She says it’s still a good time to buy a home, which is always cheaper than rent.

New campaign fundraising figures show incumbent Senator John Kennedy leads the field, far and away. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The Louisiana Senate voted against holding an override veto session which cancels the session that was scheduled to start on Saturday. Jeff Palermo has more….

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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LSU football continued its hot streak today of receiving verbal pledges from high school prospects. Liberty Magnet High running back Kaleb Jackson of Baton Rouge announced his commitment to the Tigers today. Jerit Roser of Tiger-details-dot-com says Jackson is five-foot-eleven, 215 pounds

Cut 3 (12) “…so well”

LSU’s 2023 recruiting class now features two talented running backs from Louisiana. Trey Holly from Union Parish is another four-star back. Roser says the two ball carriers should complement each other well…

Cut 4  (10) “…and company”

Since the start of July, LSU has received a series of verbal commitments. Roser says the Tigers 2023 recruiting class is now ranked in the Top Ten…

Cut 5  (12) “…coast to coast.”

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Today marks the one-year anniversary of the death of former four-term governor Edwin Edwards. The silver fox passed away at the age of 94 from respiratory complications. Trina Edwards was Edwards’ third wife and married to him at the time of his death. She explained to Jim Engster on Talk Louisiana what attracted her to one of the state’s most colorful politicians

Cut 6 (10) ” …all the time.” 

Trina Edwards and Edwin Edwards had a child together as Eli is set to turn nine-years-old on August 1st. Trina told Jim Engster on Talk Louisiana that Edwin’s last spoken words were to him…

Cut 7 (09) “…recording it” 

The 43-year-old Trina Edwards has a new love of her life as she’s been dating former Louisiana House Speaker and Senate President John Alario, and told Jim Engster of Talk Louisiana she would marry him if the 78-year-old asked her.

Cut 8 (11) “…call in.”

The two have been dating for the last six months.

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With qualifying for fall federal mid-term elections starting next week, incumbent Senator John Kennedy easily leads in fundraising. Kennedy reports raising another $5.6-million in the 2^nd Quarter, and has almost $16-million cash-on-hand for his campaign. U.L.-Monroe political science professor Joshua Stockley says this comes as no surprise…:

Cut 9 (14) “..that expectation.”

Stockley says a lot can happen between now and November, but he Kennedy has a distinct advantage. So far, Democrat challengers are Baton Rouge activist and blogger Gary Chambers, Rapides Parish airline pilot Luke Mixon and New Orleans area non-profit director Syrita Steib (pronounce: ser-EET-uh stEYEb). They have raised only a little over $2-million between the three. Stockley says fundraising is tough when running against a popular incumbent like Kennedy…:

Cut 10 (10) “…to these individuals.” 

So far, Kennedy has raised a total of over $28-million for his re-election; with about $16-million cash-on-hand.

One possible challenger to Kennedy from within his party would be Baton Rouge area Reverend Tony Spell, the man who flouted the Governor’s orders to stop church services during the pandemic, was arrested and jailed for it and eventually exonerated of any wrongdoing. Stockley says he doubts Spell poses a threat to Kennedy’s hopes for another term…:

Cut 11 (07)  “..Senator Kennedy.” 

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There will not be an override veto session as a majority of state senators voted to cancel the session, which was scheduled to begin on Saturday. Jonesboro Representative Jack McFarland pushed for a veto session. He says many of the 27 bills the governor vetoed received super majority support by the Legislature…

Cut 12 (12) “…try it again”  

McFarland says he’s most disappointed with the governor’s vetoes over the Education Savings Accounts bills that set up a way to provide more school options for disabled and special education students

Cut 13 (08) “…quality education.”

McFarland says he’s also disappointed with the vetoes on bills pertaining to criminal justice reform and religious freedom.

Twenty-five of the state’s 38 senators voted against an override session, which was the majority vote needed to cancel the session. Some state senators called it a waste of taxpayer dollars.  McFarland says he heard from other senators who had other plans…

Cut 14 (11)  “.the country” 

A Louisiana-based company known for its food delivery service is expanding their business model and they are hoping that transition happens “as soon as possible.” Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Forecasters continue to watch an area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms over the northern Gulf of Mexico. LRN meteorologist John Weatherbee has an update on the system…

Cut 2 (26) “….Danielle.” 

________________________________________________

UL-Monroe will soon begin research and testing of legal medical cannabis and hemp grown in Louisiana. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Louisiana-based Waitr is transitioning to their new name ASAP. Spokesperson Dean Turcol says it’s reflective of their new business model – same day delivery of any type of goods, not just food, and you ‘ll receive it “as soon as possible.”

Cut 4 (09)  “…products.”

Waitr customers will begin to see subtle changes with the addition of the ASAP tagline. Turcol says their customers are used to the best-in-class food delivery service and now they’re expanding delivery to include a broader range of services.

Cut 5 (09) “…like that.”

The company signed partnerships with two software logistics delivery providers last week, Elite Extra and Burq that will expand delivery services. But in the meantime, Turcol says this is just the beginning of their reimagination of the company…

Cut 6 (08)  “…transition.”

Waitr was founded in 2013 and is currently based in Lafayette.

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Louisiana has emerged as a nationwide leader in encouraging private investment in electric vehicle charging stations as a result of legislation approved in the regular session. That’s according to a group called Charge Ahead Partnership. Executive Director Jay Smith says the measure allows grocery stores and even gas stations to invest in a electric vehicle charging network…

Cut 7 (09) “….the driver.”

West Baton Rouge Senator Rick Ward wrote the law and it urges the Louisiana Public Service Commission to create a competitive market for electric vehicle charging, so it’s not just utility companies involved in the development of E-V charging stations…

Cut 8 (09)  “…E-V charging business.”

Smith says Louisiana is the only state to pass this type of law to allow private investment in an E-V charging network. He says the Bayou State will receive 73-million dollars in federal money for electric vehicle infrastructure, but it’s not enough…

Cut 9 (09)  “…on the road”

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Construction of $110 million lumber production facility in Bossier Parish is now underway. LED Secretary Don Pierson says the Canadian Teal Jones Group chose the Plain Dealing site in December. He says it’s investment that ripples through the economy because you have to harvest timber…

Cut 10 (10) “…like this.”

The project is expected to create 125 new director jobs with an annual average salary of $47 thousand plus benefits. Pierson says these new high-technology lumber mills can actually look at the log…

Cut  11 (09)  “…or whatever.” 

And Pierson says when timber can be cut more efficiently that should eventually translate to a price decrease for lumber. He says it’s a win-win for Louisiana.

Cut 12 (10) “…our economy.” 

Pierson says they are hopeful the plant will be up and running withing the next 20 months.

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The U.L.-Monroe College of Pharmacy will begin testing and researching hemp and cannabis for quality, purity and further health applications. West Monroe state Representative Mike Echols says he worked to amend current medical marijuana law to allow ULM to get involved…:

Cut 13 (12) “…research in that space.”

Medical marijuana grown by facilities affiliated with the LSU and Southern University Ag Centers must continually be tested for consistency, potency and safety. He says increased demand for medical cannabis means more product grown…and adding ULM as an additional tester makes sense. Echols says this should not lead to any more growing operations though…:

Cut 14 (07)  “…places in the state.”

KNOE TV in Monroe reports the research could mean additional jobs at ULM, plus over a million dollars in revenue. Echols says that sum would be just from testing existing product…:

Cut 15 (09)  “…unlimited potential.”

ULM is currently seeking funding, through state and federal grants, to buy what they need to get it going.

To provide access to abortion services in the southeast a California physician proposes the idea of a floating clinic in the Gulf of Mexico to skirt state bans. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Since reaching a record high in mid-June, gasoline prices have fallen over 30-cents in the last month. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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To help reduce travel costs for women seeking abortion services in the southeast a California OB/GYN is proposing a floating clinic in the Gulf of Mexico. Dr. Meg Autry who’s also a professor at University of California San Francisco says there’s been an assault in the US on bodily autonomy and access to care.

Cut 3 (06) “…communities.”

Autry says she’s been germinating on the idea for some time and the reversal of Roe v Wade has only increased interest in getting the clinic afloat. It would operate in federal waters, out of reach from state laws that ban abortions. She says women living in poverty in the southeast will be impacted the most by the ban.

Cut 4  (07) “…individuals.”

While they are still working on details as to when and where the vessel will launch, Autry says she’s received positive feedback and fundraising efforts have increased significantly since her idea was announced.

Cut 5  (06) “…amazing.”

For more information or to donate visit PRROWESS.org. That stands for Protective Reproductive Rights of Women Endangered by State Statutes.

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The deadline for lawmakers to vote on having – or NOT having – a special veto override session is midnight tonight. As of now it seems unlikely to happen. Houma Representative and House Speaker Pro Tem Tanner Magee says getting the “yes” votes to convene isn’t as large a task as mustering the  supermajority votes needed in both chambers for a successful override…:

Cut 6 (13) ” …one republican short.” 

There would also be some key GOP votes missing in the Senate, Magee says. A veto session happens automatically, unless a simple majority of members in both chambers vote “no” by mail-in ballot. Magee says convening a session just requires members to vote “yes” or not vote at all…:

Cut 7 (14) “…I’m trying to say.” 

Special Legislative sessions cost taxpayers roughly $500-thousand-a-day, to pay Capitol staff and lawmakers their per diem. Magee says having a veto session that fails risks incurring the wrath of constituents…like they did last year, when that very thing happened…:

Cut 8 (09) “…you look at it.”

Magee says it’s probable that too few votes will mean no veto session, but any bills killed this year can always be reintroduced next year. An official tally of House & Senates votes is expected Tuesday.

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State Police is investigating two separate car crashes that killed five people on Sunday on the Northshore. A head-on crash killed two people in Lacombe yesterday morning and three people died in a single-vehicle crash in Franklinton. L-S-P Sergeant Dustin Dwight says speed and impairment were factors in both wrecks…

Cut 9 (09) “..we investigate.”

Dwight says in the single-vehicle crash that killed three people ranging from ages 22 to 35, the vehicle came up on a three way intersection on L-A 16 and failed to stop…

Cut 10 (12) “…two passengers.” 

Juan and Ramon Munoz of Covington were pronounced dead and so was 22-year-old Martin Vega from Folsom.

A couple of hours before the crash in Folsom, two people died in a head-on crash in Lacombe. Dwight says a vehicle driven by 33-year-old Shaunna Bickham tried to pass another vehicle on U-S 190 in St. Tammany Parish…

Cut 11 (09)  “..unrestrained” 

The driver of the other vehicle was buckled up and sustained serious questions.

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You are starting to see gas prices below four-dollars a gallon again. Gas-buddy-com’s Patrick De Haan says the statewide average has fallen 33-cents in the last month to $4.19 a gallon that is the fourth lowest statewide average in the country…..

Cut 12 (11) “…$3.92.”  

De Haan says after setting record high prices in mid-June, we are now seeing one of the steepest declines in gas prices ever…

Cut 13 (10) “…in 2008.”

De Haan says a drop in oil prices in response to a potential recession has resulted in lower prices at the pump…

Cut 14 (11)  “..as well.” 

De Haan says he expects the prices at the pump to continue to fall for another week or two, but that could change if there’s a run of good economic news which could result in a higher demand for gasoline.

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Senator Bill Cassidy weighs in on Congressional hearings on the January 6^th Capitol riot. Kevin Gallagher has that…:

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Another COVID surge sweeps across the state…Here’s David Grubb with more…

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m David Grubb.” 

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The State Fire Marshal’s Office wants to remind of you to practice fireworks safety this 4^th. Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says it’s always best to attend a public display where professionals are handling them but if you choose to do your own make sure it’s legal to do so at your location and choose an appropriate one.

Cut 3 (08) “…be watching.” 

Rodrigue says never set off fireworks if you are impaired and it’s best to not to allow children to handle fireworks whatsoever.

Cut 4 (12)  “…come up with.”

And always make sure you have water nearby incase things get out of controls and when the show is over make sure they are watered down and no longer smoldering because Rodrigue says they could…

Cut 5 (11) “…your home.”

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission 11-thousand injuries were caused by fireworks in 2021.

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Louisiana U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy says, regardless of one’s politics, Americans should pay attention to the congressional January 6^th hearings in D.C. Cassidy says it remains to be seen if former President Trump is culpable in the riot, but he feels it WAS “an attempt to harm the Constitution by interrupting the peaceful transfer of power”…:

Cut 6 (15)  “…agrees with me.”

On January 6^th, 2021, President Trump held a rally at the Washington Monument to protest the election results. A mob of supporters marched to the Capitol, entered and vandalized the place, while trying to invade the House chamber. One person was shot by Capitol Police. Cassidy says he feels we can all learn a lot from what’s happening in the hearings…:

Cut 7 (07) “…concerning or not?”

And what about reports that some angry Trump supporters at the riot wanted to harm Vice President Mike Pence, who wouldn’t back Trump’s claim the election was “stolen”…?

Cut 8 (06)  “…hang Mike Pence.”

Cassidy has harbored no love for the former President and irked many Louisiana Republicans by voting to convict Trump on his impeachment by the House for Russian Collusion.

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A new fiscal year is underway in Louisiana which means the state’s new spending play went into effect on July 1st. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says as a result of surplus dollars the state made a historic investment in every level of education from higher education to pre-K…

Cut 9 (10)  “…early childhood education”

Dardenne says there are also hundreds of millions of dollars dedicated to improving the state’s roads and bridges. He says motorists should see an improvement…

Cut 10 (10) “…infrastructure development.”

There are concerns the state’s economy may decline because of high gas prices and inflation, but Dardenne is optimistic the economic forecast they used to produce the budget will hold up….

Cut  11 (06)  “…budget cuts.” 

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With summer in full swing, people are out and about and COVID cases are on the rise. According to the latest data from the Louisiana Department of Health, more than 2200 new cases of coronavirus infection have been reported, with nearly 500 patients currently hospitalized. Dr. Joe Kanter says it’s a statewide trend…

Cut 12 (10) “…regions of the state.” 

Fortunately, there is some good news. Two years since the start of the pandemic, about 95 percent of the state has either been vaccinated, had COVID, or both. Kanter says the concerns are still real, but the impact isn’t nearly as severe as in the past…

Cut 13 (07) “…getting very sick.”

Kanter says COVID is with us for the long haul, so we’ve got to get used to it. What we can do is take advantage of the tools available and make good decisions in assessing our risk for infection and be prepared for seasonal surges.

Cut 14 (13)  “…high-quality mask.”

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