McNeese has a new president – and for the time being, he’ll be doing double duty. Andrew Greenstein reports. 

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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LDWF’s whooping crane reintroduction project had its most successful nesting season ever. Kace Kieschinck has the story.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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Ochsner Health has partnered with a company testing a new Alzheimer’s treatment that is showing encouraging results in clinical trials. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Call him “president,” call him “senator” – when referring to Mike Reese, both titles apply to him simultaneously. The state senator from Leesville is now the new president at McNeese State University, taking over for Wade Rousse, who’s now heading the LSU system. Reese officially took over as McNeese president July 1st with words of encouragement for both current and incoming students.

Cut 4 (13) “…having wonderful careers.”

Reese notes that 78-percent of McNeese’s graduates remain in Louisiana, so it’s important that the school work very closely with the community to prepare them for life after college.

Cut 5 (08) “…meaningful to them.”

As for President Reese’s alter ego, Senator Reese says he will serve in one more legislative session and will not run for re-election. But between now and the end of his term, given the fact that there are only 24 hours in a day, Senator Reese – make that President Reese – says time management will be key.

Cut 6 (11) “…as state senator.”

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries reported the state’s whooping crane recovery effort saw 10 fledged chicks. That means the chicks are fully grown and capable of flight. It brings the state’s total population to 84. LDWF Biologist Sara Zimorski says it was a historic nesting season.

Cut 7 (14) “…had this year.”

Louisiana’s whooping crane reintroduction project began in 2011. 18 of the 20 total pairs that nested were able to hatch chicks, the largest percentage ever. Zimorski says there could be several factors contributing to the successful season, but one is that the birds are more experienced.

Cut 8 (08) “…figured out.”

Whooping cranes are large white birds with a red head and black facial markings that can grow up to five feet tall. They are a federally endangered species that was once native to the state but had not lived in the Louisiana wilderness since 1950 before the project began. Zimorski says LDWF has a history of restoring endangered native species in Louisiana.

Cut 9 (14)  “…the next ones.”

Zimorski says if you see a whooping crane, observe it from a distance and report where you saw it on the LDWF website.

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In announcing that he will not seek a second term in his second stint in Congress, Cleo Fields noted that a lot has changed since the first time he served on Capitol Hill, and not for the better. He said when he served in the House for the first time from 1993 until 1997, representatives from opposite parties were actually cordial towards one another.

Cut 10 (09) “…their families together.”

Of course, on the day Fields left Capitol Hill the first time, there was no such thing as Facebook, X was merely the 24th letter of the alphabet, and Donald Trump was seven years away from launching “The Apprentice” on NBC. Times have changed, and Fields says so has Congress in the 28 years he had been gone.

Cut 11 (09) “…has to change.”

Fields says the lack of cordialness has spread well beyond the halls of Congress.

Cut 12 (08) “…talking at all.”

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A new at-home treatment for Alzheimer’s disease could soon be available, and Ochsner Health is partnering with the company behind the technology. Ochsner regional medical director Dr. Richard Zweifler says Cognito Therapeutics has developed the Spectris headset, which uses brain stimulation to help slow the disease…

Cut 13 (13)  “…over time.”

The device is still in clinical trials and has not been approved by the FDA. But Zweifler says early results show the therapy may help remove the plaque associated with Alzheimer’s…

Cut 14 (11) “…high quality of life.”

Ochsner expects FDA approval could come by next June. Through its partnership with Cognito Therapeutics, Zweifler says the goal is to make the treatment available to Ochsner patients as soon as possible…

Cut 15 (05) “…game changing.”

Patients would wear the headset for one hour a day, and Zweifler says side effects appear to be minimal.

An estimated 95,000 Louisianans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers hope the Spectris headset could provide a less invasive alternative to infusions or oral medications.

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At SEC Media Days last week, LSU coach Lane Kiffin said his goal at LSU was to combine the top portal classes with elite high school talent. Kiffin has become known as the “Portal King” in college football, and welcomed the number-one class this offseason. He said people need to reframe how they look at transfers.

Cut 16 (11) “…eligibility left.”

Kiffin said programs that have tried to invest in only traditional high school classes have not survived. The most famous case of this is Dabo Swinney’s Clemson who brought in only five portal players in seven years before adding ten this offseason. Kiffin said freshmen don’t stick around anymore because of playing time or money.

Cut 17 (14) “…have that.”

He proposed a limit on the earnings of incoming freshmen similar to NFL rookie contracts.

Kiffin said to find success, coaches need to balance top-end young talent with long-term transfers and immediate impact transfers, and that balance will look different for every school. As for his LSU tenure, he does not plan to abandon his portal kingdom.

Cut 18 (15) “…through the portal.”

The state takes a huge step towards its goal of making high-speed internet access available to everyone through a new partnership with Starlink. Joe Gallinaro reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Joe Gallinaro.”

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Lane Kiffin took the stage at SEC Media Days as a Tiger for the first time. Kace Kieschnick has more.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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Louisiana takes a huge step towards connecting the entire state to broadband internet through a partnership with Starlink. ConnectLA Executive Director Veneeth Iyengar says Starlink will deliver high-speed internet access to more than ten-thousand rural locations in more than 50 parishes by the end of the summer.

Cut 3 (12) “…folks with Starlink.”

Iyengar says under the partnership with the state, the customers will get the equipment for free, and the service will be about 55 dollars a month for good, reliable high-speed internet.

Cut 4 (11) “…of those speeds.”

Iyengar reiterates that Starlink is only intended for locations which are so rural that it’s impossible to install fiber internet in a cost-effective way.

Cut 5 (11) “…fixed wireless.”

For more information on Starlink’s services, visit Starlink’s website.

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Lane Kiffin made his long-awaited first SEC Media Days appearance with LSU today. He reflected on his growth as a person since arriving at LSU. He said one of the ways he’s grown is his social media use. His son Knox challenged him not to use the apps. Kiffin said he has since deleted them and realized how many others are addicted.

Cut 6 (09) “…try this sometime.”

He said as people go through life, they often add things, but he has found the importance of subtraction.

Cut 7 (09) “…refreshing”

Ole Miss head coach Pete Golding said yesterday that he would “take the over” on Kiffin’s return to social media. He did highlight the Rebels’ 2024 matchup with Georgia, when he challenged Kiffin to put down social media for the week of the game. Ole Miss won 28-10.

Kiffin reflected on the recent deaths of his parents and his own mortality as he considered the importance of doing and saying what you want before you die. He was asked about his comment in a Vanity Fair story that Oxford’s lack of diversity hurt his talent acquisition at Ole Miss.

Cut 8 (14) “…of the words.”

Linebacker Whit Weeks came back for his senior season at LSU instead of going to the NFL Draft. Weeks became Kiffin’s right-hand man on recruiting and transfer portal visits. The two have become very familiar with one another since Weeks started dating Kiffin’s daughter, Landry last year, but he says that does not affect their relationship.

Cut 9 (11)  “…cutting up.”

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Even though the 16-count indictment against her has been dismissed, Attorney General Liz Murrill wants to get to the bottom of how it all happened. Under Governor Landry’s directive, State Police have launched a criminal investigation into the grand jury which indicted her. Loyola University Law Professor Dane Ciolino says this is unprecedented on several fronts, including the fact that Murrill’s office generally does not have criminal jurisdiction over matters in Orleans Parish.

Cut 10 (10) “…office’s independent investigation.” 

Ciolino says there’s also the potential issue of a conflict of interest.

Cut 11 (09) “…under those circumstances.”

One day after the grand jury handed down the indictment, Congressman Clay Higgins asked FBI Director Kash Patel to look into whether the grand jury was properly convened or was used for political retaliation. Ciolino says federal investigators would be wasting their time.

Cut 12 (11) “…into than this.” 

Murrill is also seeking reimbursement from the state for her legal fees, which she says are around 250-thousand dollars.

Former LSU and NFL Safety Ryan Clark was fired while live on ESPN Monday. Kace Kieschnick has more from OutKick writer Dan Zaksheske, who reveals why.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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The 16-count indictment against Attorney General Liz Murrill has been dismissed, but the A-G is still coming out swinging. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Former LSU football standout Ryan Clark was fired from ESPN Monday after over 10 years with the network. Clark was part of a number of layoffs to on-air personalities announced yesterday. Clark, though, was fired abruptly while on ESPN’s “NFL Live” show because OutKick writer Dan Zaksheske had the story early and asked ESPN to comment.

Cut 3 (08) “…after the fact.”

Former NFL MVP Cam Newton, College World Series announcer Karl Ravech and insider Tom Pelissero were also included in the layoffs. Many of the firings were a result of redundancy from ESPN’s recent acquisition of NFL Network, but Zaksheske says the writing was on the wall for Clark since he signed his 2024 contract.

Cut 4 (12) “…kind of thing.”

Zaksheske also noted the multiple on-air apologies Clark has had to make for comments about Louisiana State Police during the lawsuit filed by former LSU receiver Kyren Lacy’s parents. Zaksheske says he doesn’t expect Clark to get a TV job anywhere else, but he’ll do just fine.

Cut 5 (12) “…of the business.”

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At the urging from New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno, special prosecutor Laurie White has dismissed the 16-count indictment against Attorney General Liz Murrill. Tulane University political science professor Mike Sherman says it was Moreno’s way to turn down the political temperature.

Cut 6 (12) “…officials work together.”

An Orleans Parish grand jury indicted Murrill on eight counts each of public intimidation and malfeasance in connection with letters she wrote to Moreno and other elected officials, threatening their jobs over their support of an appointment of an interim court clerk and a special election for a permanent one. Sherman says had this case dragged on, it would have thrown gasoline onto a bonfire.

Cut 7 (12) “…the partisan divide.”

In response to the lawsuit, Governor Landry started slamming the City of New Orleans, saying it’s not as essential to the State of Louisiana as it once was. Sherman says that talk is pure hyperbole.

Cut 8 (12) “…New Orleans is.”

While Moreno’s move may be an effort to turn down the political temperature, it seems that Murrill is content in keeping the thermostat turned up. In a statement, she said the case should have never been brought in the first place because she did not commit any crime, and that the dismissal of the charges will not end her quest to get to the bottom of it all.

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It appears that Tropical Storm Bertha is going to end up being just one big dress rehearsal for South Louisiana. Lauren Chandler with the National Weather Service says Bertha, which at last check was packing maximum sustained winds of 50 miles an hour, is weakening and won’t have much of an impact when it makes landfall later this afternoon.

Cut 9 (09)  “…some loose items.”

Chandler says what’s unique about this storm is that the biggest threat is actually excessive heat, since it will produce almost no rainfall over land.

Cut 10 (10) “…from strengthening anymore.” 

Chandler says storm surge could be a factor in the southern coastal areas.

Cut 11 (11) “…of levee system.”

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LSU and Ole Miss fans fight it out on social media over Lane Kiffin’s decision to leave the Rebels for the Tigers. But Ole Miss head coach Pete Golding said at SEC Media Days on Wednesday that he does not have a problem with Kiffin leaving Ole Miss before their historic playoff run last season…

Cut 12 (12) “…at all.” 

Golding was the Rebels defensive coordinator and was promoted to interim head coach when Kiffin took the LSU job. Golding led Ole Miss to two playoff victories and is now permanent coach. Golding says he still talks with Kiffin…

Cut 13 (12) “…appreciative of that.”

Ole Miss will host LSU on September 19^th in the SEC opener for both teams.

Tropical Storm Bertha, located in the northeastern Gulf of Mexico, has maximum sustained winds of 60 miles an hour as it begins to make its way towards Louisiana. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (28) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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UL Lafayette Athletic Director Ryan Maggard will become Missouri’s Deputy A-D after nine years in Lafayette. Kace Kieschnick reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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The Louisiana Department of Health has now confirmed an additional 12 cases of cyclosporiasis this past week, bringing the total since the start of the outbreak to 68. To put that number in perspective, that’s almost double the typical number of cases it sees during the same time period in a given year.

The FDA originally traced the source of the outbreak to contaminated lettuce from Taylor Farms, but it now says that test was a false positive. Senator Bill Cassidy says the FDA should not have jumped the gun in its assessment.

Cut 3 (11) “…I get that.”

Taylor Farms is still recalling its lettuce out of an abundance of caution. Cassidy says whether Taylor Farms is confirmed to be the source of the cyclospora, it underscores the importance of being totally sure of these things before going public with the information.

Cut 4 (12) “…you release them.”

U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. says the cyclosporiasis outbreak is under control, and there’s no cause for concern over previous cuts to the program that tracks food poisoning. Cassidy says he will be requesting a briefing on that.

Cut 5 (13) “…I believe it.”

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Tropical Storm Bertha strengthened this morning. It’s maximum sustained winds are at 60 miles an hour and the center of the storm is in the northeastern Gulf. The National Hurricane Center says it has started moving west towards Louisiana’s southeastern coast. 

National Weather Service Meteorologist Jacob Zeringue (zur-RANG) says there are two main threats that Bertha brings to the Louisiana coast.

Cut 6 (15) “…day on Wednesday.”

Zeringue says tropical storm-force winds are not expected to extend too far north from the coast.

Cut 7 (12) “…wind gusts tomorrow.”

State Climatologist Jay Grymes says Bertha is a lopsided storm so its stronger winds and heavier rain bands could remain over the Gulf, which means Louisiana may not receive the worst that Bertha has to offer.

Cut 8 (12) “…circulation.”

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UL Lafayette Athletics Director Doctor Bryan Maggard is leaving to take a job as the Deputy AD at Missouri. Maggard has led Cajuns’s athletics since 2017 to 21 conference titles and 23 NCAA postseason appearances. Locked On Sun Belt Podcast host Dave Schultz says he accomplished his biggest goal.

Cut 9 (12)  “…whole goal.”

Maggard spearheaded a 65-million-dollar renovation to Cajun Field completed last year.

Maggard hired head football coaches Billy Napier and Michael Desormeaux who have led the Cajuns to eight straight bowl games. He directed the largest fundraising effort in school history, raising over 30-million-dollars. Schultz says Maggard guided the Cajuns through a new era in college athletics.

Cut 10 (12) “…on to Missouri.” 

Deputy Athletics Director Trey Frazier will take over as the interim. Schultz says the search for a permanent replacement will be difficult. He says the responsibilities of college A-Ds have evolved.

Cut 11 (11) “…got to adjust.”

The athletic department is currently under investigation by the Lafayette District Attorney’s office for misappropriated and unauthorized use of funds.

LA Tech and ULM are renewing the I-20 rivalry for the first time in 26 years this season. Kace Kieschnick has more.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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The North Louisiana Crime Lab is warning of a new synthetic opioid that it says is ten times more potent than fentanyl. Jeff Palermo reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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ULM and Louisiana Tech will face off in a football game for the first time since 2000, now that the Bulldogs have joined the Sun Belt Conference. The reunion is set for October 17 in Monroe. Warhawks head coach Bryant Vincent says this is what college football is about.

Cut 3 (10) “…down the street.”

The teams played each other every season for 39 years until 1991. They have squared off 43 times total, with Tech leading the series 29 to 14. Vincent says the renewal of the I-20 rivalry is a can’t-miss game.

Cut 4 (10) “…in that game.”

For Louisiana Tech, bringing back in-state rivalries with ULM and UL Lafayette was one of the biggest reasons to join the Sun Belt. Head coach Sonny Cumbie says he can’t wait to take on the Warhawks every year.

Cut 5 (11) “…from that standpoint.”

Cumbie says fans on both sides can start creating their own memories and traditions in historic rivalries.

Cut 6 (09) “…conference play.”

LA Tech President Dr. Jim Henderson said he’s spoken with the Governor’s Office about creating a Louisiana Governor’s Cup between the three schools, modeled after the Commander-in-Chief’s Cup Army, Navy and Air Force play for each year.

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The North Louisiana Crime Lab is warning you of a new synthetic opioid that’s appearing in street drugs with increasing frequency. Deputy Director for Toxicology Kenton Leigh (“lee”) says it’s called cychlorphine (sigh-KLOR-feen), and it’s extremely dangerous.

Cut 7 (07) “…of right now.”

Cychlorphine is being mixed into pills that look nearly identical to common prescription medications. Leigh says the crime lab first detected cychlorphine from casework back in February; and since then, they’ve detected seven different pill types with cychlorphine.

Cut 8 (09) “…cychlorphine in them.”

Leigh says the very best way you can protect yourself from cychlorphine is always to get your prescriptions from a reputable doctor and have them filled at a reputable pharmacy.

Cut 9 (12)  “…versus a counterfeit.”

Medical experts say it takes several doses of Narcan to reverse an overdose caused by cychlorphine.

Federal officials are working to classify it as a Schedule One narcotic, labeling it as having no medical benefit. That would prohibit it from being legally prescribed, dispensed or administered.

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An increase in gang activity has Hammond police stepping up enforcement and warning those responsible they’ll face tougher consequences. The increased enforcement comes after an early morning shooting in downtown Hammond last weekend that left a 17-year-old wounded. Police chief Edwin Bergeron blames the violence on gang activity…

Cut 10 (09) “…into the city.” 

The night after Saturday’s shooting, Hammond P-D conducted a crime suppression operation resulting in 16 arrests and the recovery of ten firearms in downtown Hammond. Police say fewer than half of those arrested were Hammond residents. That’s one reason State Police and the FBI are helping target gang violence along the I-55 corridor. Special Agent in Charge of the FBI New Orleans Field Office Jonathan Tapp…

Cut 11 (13) “…everywhere.”

Tapp says violent gang members who are caught could face not only state charges, but federal prosecution as well…

Cut 12 (11) “…rest of your lives.” 

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Summer heat is about to ramp up. It’ll be a hot weekend, with even hotter weather early next week as highs climb into the mid- and upper 90s.LSU Health Climatologist Barry Keim says a high-pressure system in the Gulf is to blame…

Cut 13 (12) “…record high temperatures.”

The dangerous heat has already turned deadly. State health officials report four people died from heat-related causes in June. Keim says limit your outdoor activities

Cut 14 (08) “…hydrate yourself.”

Keim says the Gulf high pressure system will also push humidity even higher…

Cut 15 (08) “…very much rain”

Attorney General Liz Murrill has been ordered to pay 245-thousand dollars in legal fees for her laws that accused the Caddo Commission of violating the state’s Open Meeting Law. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Even though President Trump never signed it, the most sweeping federal housing legislation in a generation is now law. Andrew Greenstein reports. 

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Supporters of year-round Daylight Saving Time are calling on the U.S. Senate to approve the Sunshine Protection Act. The U.S. House has passed legislation that would make Daylight Saving Time permanent. President Trump has said he’ll sign the bill if it reaches his desk. Louisiana is prepared to immediately adopt permanent Daylight Saving Time thanks to legislation sponsored by Haughton Representative Dodie Horton that was approved in 2020…

Cut 3 (11) “…clock.”

When Louisiana switches from Daylight Saving Time to Standard Time, the sun sets around 5 p.m. in December and January. Horton says her constituents want more daylight later in the day…

Cut 4 (08) “…than negative.”

The U.S. tried year-round Daylight Saving Time in 1974 and 1975, but Congress repealed the law after complaints that children were going to school in the dark and morning traffic accidents increased.

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A state judge has ordered Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill to pay nearly 245-thousand dollars in legal fees after her office sued the Caddo Commission for allegedly violating the state’s Open Meetings Law. Murrill says she plans to appeal the ruling…

Cut 5 (12) “…enforcing the law.”

Murrill alleges seven Caddo Commissioners violated the state’s Open Meeting Law when they privately met to discuss preparing a resolution to welcome U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders to Shreveport in June 2025. Murrill also claims the Commissioners violated state law by approving the resolution with electronic voting machines instead of a live voice vote…

Cut 6 (12) “…real problem”

In his ruling, Judge John Davidson called the state’s lawsuit against the Caddo Commission frivolous, not investigated properly and it should never have been filed. But Murrill says her office is charged with enforcing the open meetings law and after an investigation, it was determined a violation occurred…

Cut 7 (07) “…judicial scrutiny.”

The appeal with go to the 2^nd Circuit Court of Appeals and it could end up before the Louisiana Supreme Court before it is finally resolved.

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Even though President Trump never put Sharpie to paper, the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is now law. The most sweeping federal housing legislation in a generation contains several components aimed at making home ownership more accessible to more people. Norman Morris, the CEO of Louisiana Realtors, says one of the biggest ones is placing restrictions on single-family home purchases by investors.

Cut 8 (15) “…off the market.”

Morris says another component of the new law is a modernization of manufactured and modular housing requirements.

Cut 9 (11)  “…in our state.”

Morris says under the new law, it will be a lot easier, especially for first-time homebuyers, to obtain small-dollar mortgages.

Cut 10 (11) “…of the state.” 

Thanks to the new law, a single low appraisal will no longer put a purchase deal in immediate peril, as it will require value reconsiderations and make available second appraisal procedures. Morris notes that the effects of the new law will take some time to be fully felt.

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U-S Senator John Kennedy says the Republican-backed measure known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill” has reduced the number of Americans who were receiving SNAP benefits by four-million. Kennedy says that’s because the legislation required able-bodied adults to work, volunteer or attend school in order to receive the government benefits

Cut 11 (06) “…food stamps.” (2x)

Kennedy says the full provision of the law is not implement, so he expects this number to grow. He says it was a long overdue reform to this social program and it’s not targeting people who are not able to work for a variety of reasons…

Cut 12 (14) “…it’s working.” 

Former LSU All-American quarterback Bert Jones will have his jersey retired in Tiger Stadium. Kace Kieschnick has more.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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Congress is trying again to make Daylight Saving Time permanent. Andrew Greenstein reports. 

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Louisiana Department of Health has reported 36 in-state cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic intestinal infection causing explosive diarrhea. Louisiana is just one of 30 states that have reported cases of the infection. State Epidemiologist Theresa Sokol says the CDC and FDA are working to find the source of the outbreak.

Cut 3 (12) “…resolve the outbreak.”

Michigan health officials suggested lettuce and salad greens could be the possible source. Usually contracted by eating contaminated food abroad, Sokol says this national outbreak suggests there is a domestic cause. She says it is almost always caused by contaminated fresh produce.

Cut 4 (09) “…types of items.”

She recommends thoroughly washing all produce and washing your hands before and after handling it.

The infection causes frequent and watery bowel movements, fatigue, loss of appetite, bloating and more. Severe dehydration may result in hospitalization, but cases are rarely fatal. Sokol says symptoms can last up to a month.

Cut 5 (09) “…may have cyclosporiasis.”

Five Louisianians have been hospitalized with cyclosporiasis.

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Could 50 Cent’s investment in Shreveport be in jeopardy? The rapper, whose real name is Curtis Jackson, posted a cryptic message on Instagram, saying, in his words, some people in Shreveport don’t want things to get better, and he’s going to have to pull back on the Red River, referring to the entertainment production district he’s seeking to create. Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux says he’s not concerned about 50 Cent’s overall commitment to the city.

Cut 6 (11) “…on everything else.”

50 Cent’s plan is to transform dormant industrial spaces into state of the art film and television production facilities. Mayor Arceneaux notes that 50 Cent’s efforts in Shreveport date back several years, so there’s no way he’s going to pull out of the city completely.

Cut 7 (09) “…will go forward.”

Arceneaux says the big question at this stage is whether 50 Cent will actually run the Red River District.

Cut 8 (12) “…couple of spots.”

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Former LSU quarterback Bert Jones, the first All-American signal caller in LSU history, will have his number seven jersey retired in Death Valley November 14 during the Texas game. Jones is an LSU Athletics and Louisiana Sports Hall of Famer, but he says this takes the cake.

Cut 9 (12)  “…list for me.”

The Ruston native started for LSU from 1970-1972 and went 26-6-and-1. He won three bowl games and an SEC Championship and left campus as the school record holder with 3,255 passing yards and 28 touchdowns. Jones says playing in Death Valley was unforgettable.

Cut 10 (12) “…special time.” 

Jones joins Billy Cannon, Tommy Casanova, Jerry Stovall and Charles Alexander as the former Tigers to have their jerseys retired. All of the jerseys are displayed above the south end zone in Tiger Stadium. Jones says he joins incredible company.

Cut 11 (13) “…always special.”

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What a difference four years make. In 2022, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Sunshine Protection Act, which would make Daylight Saving Time permanent, only to have that bill stall in the Democratic-led House. Now, four years later, the Republican-led House passed that same bill on a vote of 308-117. Julia Letlow was among the representatives who voted in favor of it, doing so after polling her constituents.

Cut 12 (08) “…on this one.” 

Since the previous Senate vote was during the 117th Congress, the measure now goes back to the Senate in this, the 119th Congress. Letlow acknowledges it faces an uncertain fate there.

Cut 13 (05) “…so we’ll see.”

If H-R 139 ultimately becomes law, sunrise in Shreveport in early January could come after 8:15 a.m.

Meta is committing another 50-billion dollars to its Richland Parish data center, expanding the campus to nearly ten million square feet and five gigawatts of IT capacity. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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If you need a job, the “help wanted” sign is out in West Feliciana Parish. Andrew Greenstein reports. 

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Meta is doubling its AI data center in Richland Parish. President and Vice Chairman of Meta, Dina Powell McCormick, says they now plan to spend as much as 50-billion dollars on the project and related infrastructure, up from the ten billion it originally planned

Cut 3 (12) “…Richland Parish and beyond.”

Governor Landry says artificial intelligence continues to accelerate worldwide , the infrastructure powering it is expanding to meet the growing demand. He says with this investment, Meta is establishing the Richland Parish Data Center as the cornerstone of its global infrastructure and it puts Louisiana in a great spot too…

Cut 4 (10) “…the world.”

The site will encompass more than 32-hunred acres, more than four times larger than New York City’s Central Park. Landry says his administration has created an environment were companies can move quickly and build at scale..

Cut 5 (14) “…150 billion investment.”  (applause) 

The project will support 75-hundred construction jobs, one-thousand permanent jobs once it becomes fully operational in 2036.

There are concerns this massive AI data center in north Louisiana will increase electricity bills for residents, because of the amount of power it takes to run one of these facilities. But Landry says Meta and Entergy have come up with a plan for ratepayers not to bear the extra costs.

Cut 6 (12) “..infrastructure”

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It’s a wet start to the work week. LSU Health Climatologist Barry Keim says some parts of Louisiana had six to seven inches of rain on Saturday alone, and that rainy pattern will continue today and tomorrow.

Cut 7 (11) “…the same area.”

Keim says the prolonged rainfall raises the potential for certain major conditions, but other forms of severe weather are not expected for the time being.

Cut 8 (10) “…of weather conditions.”

Keim says the rain will clear out by the middle of this week; but that will not by any means make it any more comfortable to be outside.

Cut 9 (10)  “…be pretty oppressive.”

With that high humidity, heat index values will enter the triple digits in the latter half of this week.

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The “help wanted” sign is out at the Hut 8 data center in West Feliciana Parish, and there will be a job fair tomorrow afternoon to fill scores of positions. Parish President Kenny Havard says the positions cover both immediate and future positions.

Cut 10 (06) “…15-hundred construction jobs.” 

Havard says the job fair will be from three to six tomorrow afternoon at West Feliciana High School in St. Francisville.

Cut 11 (10) “…involved in it.”

Havard says the permanent jobs Hut 8 will be interviewing for are for skilled technical workers, and the salaries are quite lucrative.

Cut 12 (07) “…dollars a year.” 

(The average salaries are between 130-thousand and 150-thousand dollars a year.) And Havard says in the months since, those figures have actually gone up from there.

Louisiana is one of 29 states to report cases of cyclosporiasis, a parasitic infection causing severe diarrhea. Kace Kieschnick has more.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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Those using artificial intelligence in political ads must now clearly disclose that fact. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Three former LSU Tigers were taken on the opening day of the Major League Baseball Draft. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Over 20 cases of the parasitic infection cyclosporiasis have been reported in Louisiana; that’s above average for this time of year. State epidemiologist Theresa Sokol says typically those cases come from those who become infected when traveling abroad, but this year’s outbreak is domestic.

Cut 4 (09) “…the parasite.”

Previous outbreaks have been linked to bagged salads, fresh cilantro and basil, raspberries, snow peas, and green onions.

Louisiana is one of 29 states reporting cases of the parasitic infection. Sokol says dying from cyclosporiasis is extremely rare, but the infection is more than just your average upset stomach.

Cut 5 (12) “…loss of appetite.”

She says if you notice symptoms lasting more than a few days, you should contact a health professional. Sokol says cyclosporiasis can be treated with antibiotics.

Cut 6 (11) “…they can relapse.”

Sokol recommends you wash your hands before and after you eat and wash all fresh produce thoroughly to best reduce your risk of becoming infected.

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From now on, groups releasing political ads using A-I technology must disclose that fact. That’s due to a bill authored by New Orleans Representative Mandie Landry and signed into law by Governor Jeff Landry. Representative Landry says her bill walks a fine line between protecting people’s right to free speech and holding people accountable for using deceptive means to hurt others.

Cut 7 (10) “…harm our reputation?”

Nowhere was that more evident than in the runup to the runoff election in the Republican U.S. Senate primary between Julia Letlow and John Fleming, both of whom had A-I attack ads made against them. Representative Landry says such A-I content is something that will likely be addressed next year.

Cut 8 (11) “…to push it.”

Mandie Landry says those who violate the new law face substantial penalties when it takes effect on August 1st.

Cut 9 (10)  “…years in jail.”

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New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno asks for a face-to-face meeting with Governor Jeff Landry after exchanging letters and social media posts about the city’s finances. Knowing the State Bond Commission would have rejected it, Moreno withdrew the city’s request to seek a 110-million-dollar loan from a third party. Moreno says New Orleans will take a different approach, but it is a more painful path forward…

Cut 10 (08) “…as well.”

Moreno inherited a financial crisis left behind by her predecessor, LaToya Cantrell.

In Moreno’s latest social media post, she asked the governor to work with her administration to be successful so the state is successful…

Cut 11 (06) “…our conversation”

Landry has been critical of New Orleans’ spending and has accused the city of treating Louisiana as an ATM. Moreno responded by saying the bond request would not have resulted in New Orleans receiving more money in the state and that she’s more than happy to discuss the city’s finances in person…

Cut 12 (04) “…ATM machine.”

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Thanks to a grant of more than 170-thousand dollars, LSU Health Shreveport is helping to address healthcare shortages in rural areas. Dr. Sharon Dunn, the dean of the School of Health Professions and Sciences, says the Louisiana Department of Health is offering scholarships after being awarded the Healthcare Employment Reinvestment Opportunity, or HERO, grant.

Cut 13 (10)  “…into rural communities.”

Up to six physician assistant students will receive scholarships covering tuition and fees in exchange for a two to three year commitment at participating rural hospitals upon graduation. Dr. Dunn says the longer the scholarship, the longer the hospital commitment will be. 

Cut 14 (11) “…August of 2029.”

Dunn says these grants are a win for everyone involved.

Cut 15 (14) “…these rural communities.”

Hospitals participating in this innovative partnership are matching the grant funding.

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The Pittsburgh Pirates selected LSU All-American outfielder Derek Curiel with the fifth overall pick in the Major League Baseball Draft. Curiel had two sensational seasons at LSU, and the California native says he would not be where he is now if it were not for Jay Johnson and the Tigers’ coaching staff…

Cut 16 (11) “…LSU.”

Curiel was named freshman of the year in 2025 as the Tigers won the national championship. He led LSU in hitting this past season and was named a Third-Team All-American. Curiel on what he plans to bring to the Pittsburgh organization…

Cut 17 (20) “…do that.”

The Pirates are an improving team led by former LSU star Paul Skenes. Last year, Pittsburgh drafted former LSU slugger Jared Jones, and he’s been doing well in High A-Ball. Curiel is looking forward to being teammates again with “The Bear”…

Cut 18 (25) remember him a lot.”

In the second round, Seattle selected former LSU right fielder Jake Brown from Sulphur.

The Gulf of Mexico is seeing an increase in its shark population. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The political dispute between the city of New Orleans and Louisiana continues to intensify as the city withdraws a loan request to the State Bond Commission for 110-million dollars. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The Gulf of Mexico is seeing an increase in its shark population. Dr. Dean Grubbs, the associate director of research at the Florida State University Coastal and Marine Laboratory, says while some species continue to decline in population, others are recovering due to warming water temperatures.

Cut 3 (12) “…for bull sharks.”

Dr. Grubbs says while shark populations are in bad shape in most of the world, it’s a different story in the U.S., with the country starting to manage shark populations back in 1993.

Cut 4 (11) “…the populations recovering.”

With an increase in shark population comes an increase in the likelihood of a beachgoer encountering a shark. Grubbs points out, however, that sharks aren’t the only ones increasing in number.

Cut 5 (07) “…30 years ago.”

Grubbs says if you encounter a shark, the best thing to do is not to panic as you make your way back to the beach, because the species which populate the Gulf want nothing to do with humans, just as humans want nothing to do with sharks.

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The MLB Draft is this weekend, and a few Tigers will definitely hear their names called. Koki Riley covers LSU baseball for The Advocate and says this year’s LSU group is not as deep as past years.

Cut 6 (07) “…tenth round.”

Outfielders Derek Curiel and Jake Brown are projected to go in the first and second rounds.

Riley says most of the other players who have a chance to leave Baton Rouge for pro ball are older right-handed relief pitchers.

Cut 7 (09) “…definitely go.”

Jay Johnson and his staff will keep an eye on the draft to see where the top LSU prep signees end up. Riley says there are reports that six-foot-seven right-handed pitcher Jensen Hirschkorn of California would need a big-time signing bonus to go pro.

Cut 8 (12) “…with his fastball.”

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Cash-strapped New Orleans has withdrawn its 110-million-dollar bond and loan request from the State Bond Commission. Mayor Helena Moreno says the city pulled the application because it would have been denied amid the ongoing political dispute. Tulane political science professor Mike Sherman says the relationship between New Orleans and the Landry Administration is not good…

Cut 9 (13)  “…is expanding.”

In a statement, Mayor Moreno says the city has found another path to fund city services, but warned there will be cuts and delays. She went on to say the state of Louisiana needs New Orleans just as much as New Orleans needs the state.

Landry responded by saying no one has done more for the city of New Orleans than him, but he will not allow New Orleans to utilize the state as an ATM.

Sherman says eventually the political war of words will come to an end…

Cut 10 (09) “…off ramp.” 

In May, Governor Landry and New Orleans officials did not see eye-to-eye on a new state law that combined the city’s criminal and civil courts. The conflict grew last week when an Orleans Parish Grand Jury indicted Attorney General Liz Murrill on accusations she violated state law by publicly threatening the mayor, city council members and district attorney Jason Williams.

The Louisiana Supreme Court issued an emergency stay on the indictment and it’s possible the indictment will eventually be dismissed. The governor has ordered State Police to investigate to see the grand jury committed any improprieties in handing down an indictment against Murrill.

Sherman says the state’s dispute with New Orleans will likely not end until Murrill is exonerated and someone takes the fall for the indictment of Murrill..

Cut 11 (10) “…coming together.”

Moreno says she would like to meet with Governor Landry face to face to talk about the city’s finances.

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Get ready for a wet start to the week next week. National Weather Service Meteorologist Carly Kovacik (ko-VAH-chick) says a front will be moving into the state starting Sunday.

Cut 12 (08) “…also pushing south.” 

Kovacik says that’s going to bring some precipitation to areas throughout the state, particularly in the northern half.

Cut 13 (09) “…exist with that.”

But Kovacik says we shouldn’t see a whole lot in terms of rain accumulation like what we saw last month.

Cut 14 (08) “…up setting up.”