The Saints and Michael Thomas have reportedly agreed to a new contract that makes him the highest-paid receiver in NFL history. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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An emotional press conference took place today outside of the West Baton Rouge courthouse as family members are seeking justice in a fatal police shooting that happened last week. Matt Doyle has the story…

cut  2 (31) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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The Saints and Michael Thomas agree to a contract that makes the wide out the highest-paid receiver in NFL history. Sources say the deal is worth 100-million dollars over five years. The Voice of the Saints, Zach Streif, says it’s a huge contract, but it should not prevent the team from re-signing some of its other young stars

Cut 3 (12) “…each era”

Thomas led the NFL with 125 catches last season and no player in NFL history has caught more passes in his first three seasons in the NFL than Thomas. Streif says the contract numbers are eye-popping, but its the cost of doing business in the NFL

Cut 4 (08) “…in the city”

Thomas has been a training camp holdout. He’s been pushing for a new contract as he was set to make just over one-million dollars this year. Streif says it’s obvious Thomas outperformed his rookie deal and a new massive contract was justified…

Cut 5 (11) “…of it”

The Saints are off from training camp today but expect to see Thomas back on the practice field tomorrow with his teammates.

_____________________________

Delhi Senator Francis Thompson is term-limited in the Senate but will attempt to continue his four-decade tenure in the legislature with his announcement that he’s running for the House.

Thompson says if elected he’s looking forward to returning to the more fiscally focused lower chamber, where he can use his decades of experience to help taxpayers get the most bang for their buck.

Cut 6 (11) “…is”

The Democrat could potentially be the longest actively serving member now that Senate President John Alario has decided not to attempt to return to the Legislature.

There are some concerns that the chamber flipping is against the spirit of the state’s term limit law, but Thompson says the Capitol is at it’s best when it has a few people who know all the ins and outs.

Cut 7 (11) “…was”

Thompson voted for the term limit law back in the 90s.

He’s one of north Louisiana’s more prominent lawmakers, and the 77-year-old says he’s still got plenty of gas left in the tank to maintain his stay in the Legislature.

Cut 8 (07) “…to go.”

Thompson previously served in the Louisiana House from 1975 to 2007.

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The family of a black man killed last week during an encounter with a West Baton Rouge Sheriff’s deputy is demanding justice. An autopsy shows 38-year-old Josef Richardson was fatally shot in the back of the neck. Authorities say deputies were serving a warrant at a motel near Port Allen when Richardson was shot. Richardson’s daughter says her dad didn’t deserve to die

Cut 9 (09) “…not right”

State Police says they are conducting a thorough and impartial investigation. Neither L-S-P or the West Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Department has released the identity of the deputy involved in the shooting. Richardson’s daughter says she does not want her dad’s death to go down as an unsolved crime…

Cut 10 (09) “…no peace”  (2x)

Richardson was in the motel room with his girlfriend, who is facing drug charges. But investigators have not released any information on why the deputy fired his weapon. Richardson’s nephew says Josef was not a violent person…

Cut 11 (07) “…what happened.”

___________________________________________________

The LSU football team reports for preseason camp tomorrow with expectations as high as they’ve been in several years. The media has picked LSU to finish second in the SEC West and the Tigers are expected to be ranked in the Top 10 in the preseason polls. Coach Ed Orgeron says he’s told his team not to listen to the hype

Cut 12 (11) “…that’s it.”

LSU has been plagued by inconsistent play on offense, but Orgeron believes in starting quarterback Joe Burrow and the Tigers return their leading receiver from last season, Justin Jefferson

Cut 13 (12) “…Trey Palmer”

A West Monroe man is in jail after pretending to be a woman online and convincing another man to drive from California to Ouachita Parish.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

_________________________

The two Republicans in the governor’s race have made some big moves this week. Matt Doyle has the story.

cut  2 (31) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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48-year-old James William Eaton of West Monroe is in jail after posing online as a woman and luring another man to drive from California to Ouachita Parish thinking he was marrying that woman.  Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Glen Springfield says the victim claims to have sent Eaton a total of $1000.

Cut 3 (10) “…other gifts too.”

When questioned, Eaton allegedly told deputies he did not know the victim and never received anything from him. But Springfield says investigators found a box mailed to Eaton’s alter ego “Rose Williams” from the victim.

Cut 4 (13) “…in the box.”

Springfield believes Eaton thought he’d never end up actually meeting the victim and says this case is another reminder to be careful with who you interact with online.

Cut 5 (13) “…was a scam.”

It is unclear how long the relationship had been going on.

_____________________________

The GOP side of the governor’s race is starting to heat up with Eddie Rispone opening a substantial statewide advertisement blast and Congressman Abraham securing a major endorsement.

Abraham may be behind his fellow Republican in funding, but he continues to snag party endorsements, this time from a legislative heavyweight, House Republican Chairman Lance Harris.

Cut 6 (09) “…with him”

Harris says he’s seeing a lot of support for Abraham in his Alexandria based district.

After the Alexandria Republican’s attempt in the last session to roll back a 2018 sales tax failed, he got a call from the Congressman, who vowed, if elected, that he would get that effort over the finish line.

Cut 7 (06) “…pay it”

The Rispone campaign adds they too would make it a priority to repeal the sales tax.

The Congressman may be scoring GOP endorsements, but Rispone’s camp is beginning to utilize its significant financial advantage by putting the candidate’s face on TVs across the state…

Cut 8 (11) “…Louisiana.”

That’s Rispone campaign communications director Anthony Ramirez who says expect to see the candidate’s message on everything from nightly news to Monday Night Football.

The Baton Rouge businessman may be trailing Abraham in name recognition, but his camp is planning to use that five million dollars plus ad buy, to send a clear message to a lynchpin GOP constituency.

Cut 9 (10) “…electorate”

The primary will be held October 12^th, and if no candidate cracks 50 percent of the vote, a run-off will be held November 16^th.

_______________________________

Three people are dead including a toddler, all from Olla, after an 18-wheeler rear-ended the Ford Fiesta they were traveling in, causing the vehicle to overturn. State Trooper Scott Moreau says no one was properly restrained in the Ford being driven by a 17-year-old girl, the only survivor in the vehicle.

Cut 10 (09) “…on the scene.”

The two of the deceased were identified as 45-year-old Vicki Sears, 24-year-old Brittany Martin, and the toddler was unnamed. The driver of the Ford sustained moderate injuries. Moreau says this wreck is another reminder that not wearing a seatbelt remains the number one cause of death in vehicle crashes.

Cut 11 (06) “…control over.”

Moreau says some of the worst accidents for troopers to see are those involving small children. On Thursday, a new car seat law goes into effect aims to reduce child injuries and fatalities.

Cut 12 (09) “…time for us.”

The driver of the 18-wheeler was Joseph Pardue, who was wearing his seat belt and he sustained moderate injuries. The crash remains under investigation.

___________________________________

The St. John Sheriff’s Office is investigating a double homicide. Sheriff Mike Tregre says the victims are cousins, 18 and 20-years old and they were found in a vehicle on West Airline Highway and East 22nd Street in Reserve. Tregre says they are looking for the suspects

Cut 13 (06) “…executed”

The deceased individuals have been identified as 18-year-old Kerell Sanders and 20-year-old Kyron Perrilloux. Both were from Reserve. Tregre says violence like this involving young men is far too common

Cut 14 (07) “…in my parish”

Tregre is confident his deputies will make an arrest

Cut 15 (07) “…these victims.”

Medical Marijuana may be available in Louisiana sometime early next month. Matt Doyle has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

_________________________

A New Orleans judge says NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and three referees should have to answer questions under oath in September about the infamous blown call in the NFC Title game. Jeff Palermo has more….

cut  2 (30) I’m Jeff Palermo”  

________________________________________

Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says final testing is underway on medical marijuana produced by LSU’s grower, which means the product could be commercially available early next week. Strain says this is good news for the patients who are eligible for a medical marijuana prescription as outlined by the Legislature….

Cut 3 (10) “timetable”

If approved the products will be available at nine licensed pharmacies around the state.

GB Sciences grew the medical pot, with oversight by LSU, and Ag Department workers picked up randomly selected vials of the product from them this morning.

Cut 4 (07) “…the same”

The medical marijuana will be available in liquid form that will be dropped under the tongue or put into an inhaler for patients that need a faster response.

Medical marijuana was authorized in Louisiana four years ago, and proponents have hammered the state after the product was repeatedly delayed, but Strain says relative to most new treatments, this didn’t take very long…

Cut 5 (12) “…two years.”

The treatment reportedly will not be covered by insurance, but an LSU Ag Center spokesperson says they expect the products to be cheaper than many CBD oils currently available.

_____________________________

The Tangipahoa Parish Public School System is the latest in the state to uncover a potential cybersecurity issue.  LSU’s Stephenson National Center for Security Research Executive Director Jeff Moulton says it is likely happening due to the systems being easy targets, but could potentially be more malicious.

Cut 6 (10) “…the bad guys”

This comes on the heels of the news that cybersecurity issues in Sabine, Morehouse, and Ouachita Parishes sparked a statewide emergency declaration.  Moulton says it’s not likely that the hacks are being human-curated, but rather happening due to automated scripts on the search for vulnerabilities.

Cut 7 (09) “…get this one.”

Moulton says much of the malware is spread through email, so be careful when opening links or attachments.

Cut 8 (10) “…malware to run.”

___________________________________

A missing person case in Avoyelles Parish ends in tragedy after authorities discover a body, and pin the brutal murder on the woman’s son and his girlfriend.

Kasey Bigum was last seen May 30^th, and Sherriff Doug Anderson says they now believe that’s when she was murdered by 20-year-Tristin James, her son.

Cut 9 (07) “…killing her”

Authorities believe James and his girlfriend, 18-year-old Hannah Desselle, then drove the body away dumped it. Anderson says after they arrested the two last week, Desselle fessed up.

Cut 10 (06) “…the body.”

The body was found in a wooded area 20 miles south of Moreauville in Big Bend.

Anderson says the two didn’t seem to be fazed by the act, because they didn’t even report the mom missing for nearly three weeks after the murder and kept a straight face when they did report it.

Cut 11 (02) “…happened.”

The two were already in jail on obstruction charges when they were charged with 2^nd degree murder.

___________________

For years the LSU athletic department has used a portion of its revenues to help fund the academic side of the university. But in an exclusive interview with Tiger Rag Magazine, athletics director Scott Woodward says the transfer policy is being re-evaluated because they can not sustain what they are currently doing…

Cut 12 (11) “…athletic department”

From 2012-to-2017, LSU athletics sent nearly 50-million dollars to the university. Woodward says it’s dangerous for a university to rely on recurring money from athletics

Cut 13 (07) “…doing”

LSU Senior Associate Athletics Director Robert Munson says they are working with the university to alter the transfer policy and a change would need approval from the president and the LSU Board of Supervisors.

Super ATV has opened its manufacturing and distribution in Shreveport that will employ 75 workers.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino ”

_______________________________

State Police say parents with young children should be aware a new child safety seat law goes into effect Thursday. Kevin Barnhart has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart” 

_____________________________________

Election season will soon ramp up and good government groups want the candidates talk about detailed plans, instead of rheotric. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Super ATV’s new manufacturing and distribution center in Shreveport is open. It will employ 75 workers. The Indiana based company specialiizes in aftermarket parts for ATVs and UTVs. North Louisiana Economic Partnership President Scott Martinez says Super ATV is a great addition to the Sportsman’s paradise

Cut 4 (11) “…facilities that.” 

Martinez says Super ATV’s new Shreveport site will support product manufacturing and delivery across the United States…

Cut 5  (11) “…served” 

Martinez says Super ATV expects to generate the highest sales volume from Shreveport for its axles, portal gear lifts, mud tires and lift kits

Cut 6 (11) “…to be.”

________________

Nationwide, people struggle at saving money. A CNBC survey shows 75% of Americans refuse to seek out help regarding financial planning. Baton Rouge financial advisor Pete Bush believes there are a variety of reasons why…

Cut 7 (09) “…something like that.”  (2x)

Additionally, a GoBankRates.com survey indicates 1 in 3 Americans have saved nothing for retirement.   Bush says the best way to move towards being comfortable about talking with a financial advisor is to consult with a friend or family member that may be working with a financial advisor already.

Cut 8 (08) “…the right track.”

Bush says financial advising is all about confidence.

Cut 9 (11) “…to be happy.”

_______________

A new child safety seat law goes into effect August 1^st and it’s considered the best in the country by national safety experts.  State Police Lt. Nick Manale says the new laws reflect some of the best practices that safety experts have pushed for years.

Cut 10 (06) “…safety commission’s page.”

The new law requires anyone under 13 to ride in the backseat.  Manale says the idea behind the law isn’t to add any more grief or inconvenience for parents but to keep kids in protective categories even longer.

Cut 11 (10) “…seat for longer.”

Manale says for many years the state had fallen behind on the trends of car seat safety, but firmly believes the new law is changing that.

Cut 12 (11) “…best practices”

_____________________________

Three nonpartisan good government groups have joined forces in an effort to get the candidates for governor and the legislature to discuss details on what they plan to do if elected. The Council for a Better Louisiana is one of the organizations involved in RESET Louisiana’s Future and CABL president Barry Erwin says

Cut 13 (11) “…as well”

So far in Louisiana’s governor’s race, the candidates have not provided much when it comes to their plans on improving the state, instead, the ads have centered around President Donald Trump and Governor Edwards’ current term. Erwin says they want to change the conversation to focus on these issues…

Cut 14 (09) “…safety reform”

The Committee of 100 and the Public Affairs Research Council are also part of RESET Louisiana’s Future and they’ve raised 500-thousand dollars that they’ll use to spend on digital ads, speaking in front of town hall meetings and chamber of commerce events. Erwin says they’ve also met with the gubernatorial candidates

Cut 15 (10) “…message out”

_________________________________________________________

Saints quarterback Drew Brees is going through his 19th training camp and Who Dats hope it’s not his last in Black and Gold. Brees showed signs at the end of last season and into the playoffs that maybe Father Time is finally catching up to him. But the Hall of Fame QB he continues to prepare to hold Father Time back…

Cut 16  (18) “…beating it”   

The 40-year-old Brees is the fourth oldest player in the NFL. Saints defensive end Cam Jordan is not worried about number nine

cut 17 (12) “to do it”” 

On the defensive side of the ball, Saints Coach Sean Payton says defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins will likely won’t be back for training camp as he continues to rehab from a torn Achilles. Jordan says they have enough talent to fill in until Rankins is ready…

When LSU athletics unveiled a 28-million dollar complex for the football team this week it inspired one alum to start a Go-Fund-Me campaign for a new library. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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A Baton Rouge judge has sentenced two former LSU students to 30 days in the parish jail for their roles in the 2017 death of Phi Delta Theta pledge Max Gruver. Don Molino has more…

cut  2 (28) I’m Don Molino”  

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After LSU unveiled its multi-million dollar athletic complex for the football team this week, some alumni want to put the focus back on academics. LSU Alum Ginger Gibson isn’t faulting the University for building the new state of the art facility, but she also believes students deserve and need a new library so she’s taking matters into her own hands.

Cut 3 (12) “…go fund me page”

Gibson has set a goal of $20-million for the new library with the GoFundMe Page that will go straight to the LSU Foundation. Gibson feels so strongly about it because the library is vital to every student at the university.

Cut 4 (13) “…experience.”

LSU President F. King Alexander says a new library is in the master plan, but funding remains an issue. Gibson hopes fans of LSU rally behind the campaign like they do for the team because a proper library is a win-win for everyone.

Cut 5 (09) “…at the sametime.”

All donations are tax-deductible because they will be used to advance academic priorities. As of Friday afternoon, over $2,000 has been raised.

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Senate President John Alario has seen it all during his time in the Louisiana legislature, which is coming to an end. After 48-years, the term-limited Alario has made the decision not to run for a seat in the House. Alario says he’s going out on a good note as the legislature recently approved a one-thousand teacher pay raise

Cut 6 (08) “…making that”

Alario led the upper chamber in this last legislative term that saw multiple special sessions, because of disputes over state financing. He says the art of compromise is fading at the state capitol

Cut 7 (09) “…giving and taking.”

Alario says his biggest regret is not passing a significant tax reform bill

Cut 8 (11) “…going around.”

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A Lafayette judge is the target of scrutiny after ordering a bailiff to tape a defendant’s mouth shut.  15^th Judicial District Court Judge Marilyn Castle had Michael Duhon’s mouth taped after multiple interruptions.  Was the judge in the right?  Longtime Lafayette Attorney Tommy Guilbeau…

Cut 9 (08) “…can do it.”

Duhon was sentenced to eleven years after being found guilty of theft of over $25,000 and money laundering.  The judge also recommended he receive mental health treatment.  Duhon’s attorney eventually asked for the tape to be removed and to have his client escorted out of the courtroom.  Guilbeau says the judge has the responsibility to make sure justice is done and court business is carried out.

Guilbeau says a judge can order someone to be bound, gagged, duck taped, or removed from the courtroom.

Cut 10 (09) “…in my opinion.”

Legal analyst Tim Meche says there is an alternative to taping the man’s mouth shut.

Cut 11 (11) “…through technological devices.”

The ACLU calls the incident shocking, dehumanizing, and brutal.

___________________

The Louisiana Outdoor Expo and Boat Show is this weekend at the newly renovated Cajundome and Convention Center in Lafayette. Organizer Rob Kirkpatrick says there’s something for everyone at this three-day event

Cut 12 (11) “…and boat show.”

Tickets are $12.50 for adults, while kids five and under get in for free. Kirkpatrick anticipates nearly 15-thousand visitors to the expo. He says many of them will attend the USA Waterfowl Calling Championships

Cut 13 (09) “…on Sunday”

Kirkpatrick says the expo showcases outdoor and boating equipment for the beginner or young child up to the skilled hunter or boater. He says one of the more popular exhibits is the Fetch n Fish dog show

Cut 14 (11) “…and everything”

LSU announces it will sell beer and wine in public areas of Tiger Stadium this season. Brooke Thorington has more..

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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The attorney representing an Alexandria mom facing second-degree murder in the death of her five-year daughter is seeking a sanity commission to determine if she’s competent to defend herself. Don Molino has the story…

cut  2 (28) I’m Don Molino”  

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LSU announces its beer and wine policy for sale at concessions stands in the general seating areas of Tiger Stadium. A new SEC policy approved in the Spring gave schools the option to sell beer and wine in public areas. LSU Senior Associate athletics director Robert Munson says it’s something fans have asked for

Cut 3 (10) “…this fall”

The school has yet to decide how much a beer or chardonnay will cost. Munson says they expect an increase in revenue from beer sales, but not sure how much

Cut 4 (12) “…that coke.”

Sales will stop at the end of the third quarter and the SEC mandates all beer and wine will be poured into a cup.  no more than two alcoholic beverages may be purchased per transaction. Munson says most concession stands will sell a variety of domestic and imported beer as well as red and white wines…

Cut 5 (07) “…for our fans.”

_____________________________

Louisiana Department of Health will begin enforcing the state’s new crawfish and shrimp labeling law approved by the legislature after a heavy push from the state’s seafood industry. The law lets patrons at restaurants know the origin of their meal. LDH Environmental Services Chief of Field Operations Carolyn Bombet…

Cut 6 (09) “…they have menus.”

Bombet says if an establishment does not use menus, an 18×18 inch sign must be put on display.

Cut 7 (08) “…from the floor.”

Bombet says if a restaurant is not falling in line with the law, contact LDH who will investigate…

Cut 8 (07) “…correct the violation.”

___________________________________

Rapides Parish Sheriff deputies had to revive Jasmine Anderson after a suicide attempt this morning. The 24-year-old Alexandria mom is accused of killing her five-year daughter. Her attorney, Chad Guillot (Gee-oh) asked for a sanity commission to evaluate Anderson to see if she can assist in her defense

Cut 9 (08) “…facts arise.”

Guillot says if doctors find Anderson is not competent, she’ll be sent to the state’s mental hospital in East Feliciana Parish in an effort to restore her competency…

Cut 10 (06) “…free card”

Guillot says a hearing is set for next Tuesday for a judge to determine if a sanity commission is needed…

Cut 11 (12) “…or not”

___________________

Saints receiver Michael Thomas did not report with the rest of his teammates on the first day of training camp. Thomas is asking for a new contract that would pay him 20-million dollars a year, the largest ever for an NFL wide out. The voice of the Saints Zach Streif doesn’t think this will be a lengthy holdout…

Cut 12 (06) “…of weeks.”

Streif, who played in the NFL for 12 seasons, says Thomas is making the right move by staying away from camp until he gets a new deal

Cut 13 (09) “…leverage.”

Thomas has performed as one of the best receivers in the NFL over the last three seasons. Streif says Thomas’absence at camp will help the Black and Gold build depth at wide receiver, which the team lacked last year

Cut 14 (13) “…impact”

LSU officials cut the ribbon today on its new 28-million dollar football operations and performance nutrition center. Jeff Palermo was there…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

_________________________

Members of Louisiana’s Congressional Delegation questioned Special Counsel Robert Mueller today about Russian election interference and allegations of criminal conduct by the President…

cut  2 (30) I’m Matt Doyle”  

________________________________________

Today the media toured the new $28 million football operations building at LSU as part of a ribbon-cutting ceremony.  Athletic Director Scott Woodward says his goal is to see LSU have the best of everything.

Cut 3 (09) “…here at LSU.”

The lavishness of the facility has caught heat from some people who feel the state of the art facility is an example of misplaced priorities in higher education when other areas of the campus, including the library, are in rough shape.

Woodward says he doesn’t see the feedback received as an outrage, saying he has seen incredible publicity and social media response.

Cut 4 (12) “…very very positive.”

Woodward says the publicity of the school’s athletics is crucial as it is usually the first introduction of LSU to the public when enticing students to attend.

Cut 5 (09) “…what we are.”

_____________________________

Louisiana Senior Senator Bill Cassidy says the men and women who work for Customs and Border Patrol are stretched thin and need more resources. Cassidy came to that conclusion after touring border operations in McAllen, Texas

Cut 6 (08) “…overwhelmed now.”

Cassidy says Democrats in Washington call the crisis on the southern border manufactured, but he’s seen first hand it’s real and urgent

Cut 7 (07) “…our laws.”

Cassidy says people are coming from around the world to get to the United States and they’ve got to do something different so that that system is not overwhelmed…

Cut 8 (12) “…bunches of people” (2x)

___________________________________

This time of year can be the hottest in Louisiana, but this week the state is receiving relief because of a rare mid-summer cold front that’s cut humidity and brought  Canadian air into the bayou state.  State Climatologist Barry Keim says you can expect high temps in the mid to upper 80s.

Cut 9 (07) “…so truly refreshing outside.”

Keim advises everyone not to waste this nice weather and find an excuse to get outside.

Cut 10 (08) “…waste this opportunity.”

The nicest weather takes place today and tomorrow with clear skies in the forecast as well.  Keim says the cooler temps will start to fade going into the weekend.

Cut 11 (10) “…a little bit.”

___________________

Louisiana US Representatives Cedric Richmond and Mike Johnson questioned Special Counsel Robert Mueller this morning regarding the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election, and allegations of crimes committed by the President during that election, and during the ensuing investigation.

Richmond, a Democrat from New Orleans used his time to get an answer from the Special Counsel about activities that Richmond believes constitute Obstruction.

Cut 12 (10) “…a summary.”

But Northwest Louisiana Republican Congressman Mike Johnson, who closed for the GOP, disagrees…

Cut 13 (11) “…long months.”

Richmond says the Mueller Report, and the Special Counsel’s testimony today make it clear the President broke the law…

Cut 14 (11) “…the law.”

But Johnson assailed the Mueller team’s credibility and says the investigation was run by partisan lawyers…

Cut 15 (14) “…candidates.”

State Police charge an 18-year-old Baton Rouge teenager for intentionally causing a crash that killed 51-year-old Stephanie Payne of Greenwell Springs. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

_________________________

Republican Eddie Rispone has launched his first statewide governor’s race ads, and his message to the voters is pretty straight forward…

cut  2 (30) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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A Baton Rouge teen faces second-degree murder after he allegedly admitted to intentionally causing a crash that killed 51-year-old Stephanie Payne of Greenwell Springs last night. State Trooper Taylor Scrantz says Jack Jordan hit the gas and plowed into the back of Payne as she waited at a Baton Rouge intersection…

Cut 3 (11) “…resting.”

Impairment is not suspected to be a factor. The arrest warrant says Jordan told investigators that God instructed him to kill himself. Scrantz says they continue to investigate why Jordan hit Payne’s Nissan Rogue at an estimated 90-miles per hour

Cut 4 (05) “…happened”

Scrantz says Jordan told Troopers he intentionally caused the crash. The L-S-P spokesperson says that admission led to a second-degree murder charge…

Cut 5 (11) “…Mr, Jordan.”

Jordan has also been charged with reckless operation and simple escape.

_____________________________

Methanex announces plans to spend $1.3 billion to construct a third methanol plant in Ascension Parish and the three plants combined in Geismar would make it one of the world’s largest methanol complexes. Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson says the plant will create 62 new direct jobs with competitive wages.

Cut 6 (08) “…next three years.”

Methanex is based in Canada. Pierson says the state is very attractive to the needs of the company.

Cut 7 (08) “…this product globally.”

Pierson says with the wide variety of uses, methanol is a product critical to all economies.

Cut 8 (12) “…the global economy.”

The operation is expected to begin in 2022.

___________________________________

Gubernatorial candidate Eddie Rispone has released his first statewide TV ad of the campaign, the content of which heavily leans on Rispone’s historical support for President Trump. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the ad targets a crucial part of the Republican voting base.

Cut 9 (10) “…Donald Trmp.”

Pinsonat says Trump is one of the highest polling political figures in recent Louisiana history.

The political analyst expects the Trump focused ads to run for about three weeks before Rispone tells voters more about his background as a businessman…

Cut 10 (07) “…Donald Trump.”

Pinsonat says the strategy is also similar to successful gubernatorial efforts from Bobby Jindal and Mike Foster.

The light polling we do have available indicates Rispone has a lot of work to do to catch Republican frontrunner Congressman Ralph Abraham, but Pinsonat says Rispone’s self-funding gives him a huge financial advantage that he can put to work building support in south Louisiana.

Cut 11 (10) “…known”

Rispone has a war chest of over ten million dollars, most of which comes from his own wealth. Abraham has just over a million dollars, all through fundraising.

___________________

LSU has a brand new football operations center, and while it was paid for with private dollars, several other portions of the campus, as well as college campuses around the state, remain in need of repairs.  LSU Professor of Mass Communication Bob Mann says many feel that the state and the public should put the same emphasis on academics that go into athletics.

Cut 12 (11) “…percent.”

Mann says says various buildings need to be renovated as some are around 70 to 100 years old.  Among the buildings most in need of attention is the library.

Cut 13 (10) “…being pumped out.”

Mann says in order to see a change, there needs to be a paradigm shift in the way the state’s leaders and residents look at education.

Cut 14 (11) “…side of campus.”

The national unemployment rate rose slightly in June, but Louisiana is on the decline, powered by a robust job market in New Orleans. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle.”

_________________________

Louisiana casino revenues are down 10 percent year to year and industry experts are warning gaming may be shrinking in Louisiana…

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

_____________________________________

Southwest Louisiana Congressman Clay Higgins scoped out border security operations in McAllen, Texas. Kevin Barnhart has more.

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

__________________________________________

Louisiana’s unemployment rate decreased to 4.3 percent in June, down .7 percent from the same time last year. Louisiana’s unemployment rate is it’s lowest since January 2008.

Louisiana Workforce Commission Chief Economist Ali Bustamante says the state gained 300 jobs from May to June, which is better than most places in the US during the same period.

Cut 4 (10) “…direction.” 

The field that added the most jobs was healthcare and social assistance, which added 1,200 jobs from the previous month, and 9,400 jobs over the year.

New Orleans powered the state’s above national average performance in June, adding 1,600 jobs, the only metro area in the state to add jobs during that period.

Cut 5  (11) “… right now.” 

The city has added 8,800 jobs year to year, followed by Lafayette at 1,500 and Lake Charles at 1,100.

Houma continues to bleed jobs in the most recent report. Bustamante says the city has shed 2,900 in the last year, and 400 over the last month.

Cut 6 (10) “…competitive.”

Shreveport is down 2,400 jobs year to year, and Baton Rouge is down 1,700.

________________

Louisiana casinos have seen substantial declines in revenue in the last year, leading casino advocates to sound the alarm that the state’s gaming industry is shrinking.

Shreveport casinos are down 11.6 percent, Lake Charles 10 percent, New Orleans five percent, and Baton Rouge 13 percent. Louisiana Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Jones…

Cut 7 (11) “…operate”

Jones says gaming revenue now exceeds oil and gas revenue in funding the state.

There was a nasty fight in the legislature to get sports betting legal in Louisiana, but that attempt failed. Jones says that, plus new offerings in other states are drawing customers away…

Cut 8 (10) “…kicked.”

Seven casinos saw 10 percent or more declines in revenue year to year, but the Belle of Baton Rouge posted the most shocking decline, at 43 percent. Jones says the owner is trying to get out…

Cut 9 (11) “…yet”

On a whole, Louisiana casino revenues fell 10.2 percent from last year.

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Southwest Louisiana Congressman Clay Higgins recently visited McAllen, Texas, where US Customs and Border Protection agents process immigrants coming across the border from Mexico. Higgins says if compassionate law enforcement is the goal in America, no one is doing it better than those at the southern border.

Cut 10 (11) “…broken a law.”

Higgins is the Republican leader of the Homeland Security subcommittee. The congressman says after seeing first-hand how the operations at the border work, he believes many media outlets are casting the treatment of immigrants in the wrong light, and the reports are being twisted to reflect the agenda of the left.

Cut 11 (10) “…totally false, man.”

Higgins says the biggest hurdle being faced at the southern border is the mass amount of people trying to be processed into the United States and the first step to fixing the situation is up to lawmakers.

Cut 12 (13) “…and Chuck Schumer.”

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Louisiana’s Justice Reinvestment Reforms 2019 Annual Performance Report indicates the state has saved more than $12 million from criminal justice reform, twice the anticipated savings. Secretary of the Department of Corrections James LeBlanc says while it is still very early in the implementation, the numbers are a positive sign for long term goals.

Cut 13 (08) “…would be today.”

LeBlanc says the further evidence of reform efforts having an effect is the fact that Louisiana is no longer known for being the incarceration leader it once was. The report highlights a reduced total prison population for the state, falling from around 40-thousand at its peak at the end of 2012.

Cut 14 (08) “…had in 2012.”

LeBlanc says after three to five years of the implementation, the state will have a better idea of the recidivism rates under the reforms, but so far so good.

Cut 15 (07) “…of these reform efforts.”

Governor Edwards signs legislation inspired by a fatal crash in 2017 that permits drug testing in traffic crashes with severe injuries.  Jeff Palermo has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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A Baton Rouge chef Beat Bobby Flay on his own Food Network TV show by challenging the iconic chef to a crawfish boil…

cut  2 (32) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Governor Edwards holds a ceremonial bill signing this afternoon for “Katie Bug’s Law.” It requires drug testing of all drivers involved in crashes that result in serious injury. Bossier City Senator Ryan Gatti says the bill is named for 4-year-old Katie Grantham who died in the days following a wreck in 2017.

Cut 3 (12) “…he was incapacitated.”

The driver of the vehicle involved in the crash that killed Katie only pleaded guilty to running a red light.

Gatti says the new law brings justice to families who didn’t give up hope in trying to save the life of their loved ones.

Cut 4 (06) “…rules”

Gatti says Katie’s mother regularly drove back and forth from Bossier City to Baton Rouge pushing for the legislation to pass in the hopes it will prevent a similar tragedy happening to another family.

Cut 5 (07) “…remember her daughter.”

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Baton Rouge Chef Jay Ducote Beat Bobby Flay on the Food Network’s Beat Bobby Flay by challenging the world-renown chef to a crawfish boil. The program lets local chefs challenge Flay to a dish of their choice and both sides have 45 minutes to cook it. Ducote says he couldn’t thinking of a better way to represent Louisiana…

Cut 6 (09) “…home.”

Ducote, who has been featured on other Food Network programs, says he got the idea last year during crawfish season. He first thought of crawfish etouffee, but…

Cut 7 (11) “…anyway.”

While Flay went for a “deconstructed” boil with items like crawfish mayo potato salad, and crawfish tarragon buttered corn. Ducote kept it classic, and even tried for a traditional presentation.

Cut 8 (10) “…reasons.”

Flay appeared frazzled during the program, and only let his crawfish boil for five minutes. 

___________________________________

An Orleans Parish judge is allowing a Saints fan’s lawsuit over the ending of the NFC championship game to move forward. Judge Nicole Sheppard denied the NFL’s motion to dismiss the suit.  Attorney Tony LeMon says the purpose of his lawsuit is to hold the league accountable and just because the NFL is big, does not mean they are untouchable.

Cut 9 (10) “…for civil liability.”

The judge also ruled that LeMon could get the chance to question NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and game officials in depositions, something the league has already appealed.

Cut 10 (12) “…it took place.”

LeMon says if the league has nothing to hide, they should not resist being questioned in court, adding they should apologize if they did something wrong.

Cut 11 (60) “…going on.”

The suit seeks $75,000 in damages. LeMon says any sort of monetary winnings  would go to charity, he says he’s more interested in the truth.

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Media at Southeastern Conference Media Days pick LSU to finish second in the Western Division behind Alabama. LSU was picked to finish fifth last year, but the Tigers outperformed the low expectations. Tiger Rag Editor James Moran says LSU is once again thought of as the Crimson Tide’s biggest challenger in the West

Cut 12 (08) “…last year.”

The Tigers are set to report for preseason camp on August 1st. Moran says LSU landed eight players on the preseason All-Southeastern Conference teams, which is why LSU is picked to finish near the top of the division standings

Cut 13 (12) “…second team”

All offseason Coach Ed Orgeron has talked about an improved offense that will feature quick passes out of the shot-gun formation, but remaining physical in the running game. Moran says most people believe the hiring of Joe Brady passing game coordinator will pay dividends

Cut 14 (09) “…design things”