Baton Rouge restaurants can participate in The Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana oyster recycling program that aims to combat coastal erosion by using recycled oyster shells. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The latest Secretary of State voter registration numbers it shows 64-percent more new women voters registered than men in July when Kamala Harris became Democratic presidential nominee.  Colleen Crain has more.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Colleen Crain.” 

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Critical Race Theory is banned in K-through-12 public schools in Louisiana as a result of an executive order signed by Governor Landry. Andrew Greenstein has reaction from a pair of state senators.

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.” 

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After operating in New Orleans for ten years, The Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana has expanded its oyster shell recycling program to Baton Rouge. This initiative uses recycled oyster shells to rebuild and strengthen Louisiana’s fragile coastlines. Spokesperson James Karst says oyster shells are a critical component in creating new oyster reefs, which act as natural barriers against storm surges and help restore marine habitats.

Cut 4 (07) “…a lot of good.”

CRCL’s program has recycled more than 14-million-pounds of used oyster shells from restaurants, cleans them, and returns them to the water to form new reefs. Karst says the expansion to Baton Rouge allows more restaurants and residents to participate in the program, further increasing the supply of shells for coastal restoration projects.

Cut 5 (09) “…expanding to Baton Rouge.”

The expansion to Baton Rouge marks a significant step in scaling up the program to preserve its coastline for future generations. Karst says this initiative is crucial for Louisiana, where the coastline is rapidly disappearing due to erosion, and the impact of hurricanes.

Cut 6 (12) “…back in the water.”

For more information on how restaurants can participate in the oyster shell recycling program visit CRCL-dot-org

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Louisiana is pulling out all the stops in boosting tourism and entering the global spotlight. Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser says 2024 has been the year of music.

Cut 7 (11) “…music of Louisiana.”

And 2025 will be the year of food.

Cut 8 (14) “…around the country.”

Lieutenant Governor Nungesser says Louisiana tourism is almost all the way back to pre-pandemic levels.

Cut 9 (09)  “…43-million visitors.”

Nungesser delivers the keynote address, updating the future of Louisiana’s tourism industry at today’s Louisiana Travel Summit in Shreveport.

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Latest data from the Louisiana Secretary of State reveals more women registered to vote than men by 64-percent in July. 5,287 newly registered women voters compared to 3,305 newly registered men voters. UL Monroe Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says this could be due to Kamala Harris getting the Democratic Nomination.

Cut 10 (12) “…White House.”

Cross says the reasons behind this disparity in registration could be linked to partisan concerns. With women likely casting their vote for Harris and men for Trump…

Cut 11 (05) “…historic levels.”

Cross says while Louisiana remains a red state and will likely go to Trump in November usually election outcome is a three-to-two margin with Republicans taking 60-percent…

Cut 12 (05) “…change that slightly.”

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Critical Race Theory is a no-go in public schools in Louisiana. Governor Landry signed an executive order banning the subject matter in K-through-12 public schools in the state. It’s something that Denham Springs Republican Senator Valarie Hodges has been pushing for.

Cut 13 (08) “…the teaching manuals.” 

But New Orleans Democratic Senator Royce Duplessis doubts that critical race theory is being taught in K-through-12.

Cut  14 (10) “…in law school.”

Duplessis says kids need to be taught history, even if the history is uncomfortable.

Cut 15 (05) “…as a state.”

Hodges says that’s not what Landry’s executive order does.

Cut  16 (06)   “…to repeat it.”

Duplessis says Landry’s order manufactures division where division doesn’t exist, all while he pushes for the Ten Commandments to be placed in classrooms.

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Louisiana Tech will face Nicholls to open up the season on Saturday. Bulldogs Coach Sonny Cumbie named Jack Turner is starting quarterback before training camp started. Turner started four games last year for Tech and Cumbie says he’s the right man to lead this team

Cut 17 (14) “…he can.”

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Sunday’s LSU-USC game features two quarterback trying to replace Heisman winners, Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels. The Trojans Miller Moss and LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier have both waited three years for their chance to be the starter. Coach Brian Kelly on what they expect from Moss who …

Cut 18 (23)  “…game plans.”

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The Saints cut their roster down to 53. One of the biggest cuts was last year’s punter Lou Hedley, who lost out to undrafted free agent Matthew Hayball, who is from Austrailia and punted at Vanderbilt. Head Coach Dennis Allen:

Cut 19 (12) “….consistent than Lou”

As for the race to be the number-two quarterback behind Derek Carr, Coach Allen says he has not decided between Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler.

Cut 20 (20) “…of that nature.”

The Saints open their season Sunday, September 8th, against the Carolina Panthers in the Superdome.

Vice President Kamala Harris is polling slightly ahead of former President Donald Trump in the polls after the Democratic National Convention. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 1 (32) …I’m Mel Bridges.”

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More than 500-million dollars in renovations have been completed on the Caesars Superdome. Jeff Palermo reports Dome officials believe it will lead to a better fan experience….

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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The Democratic National Convention has wrapped up with national polls showing Vice President Kamala Harris slightly ahead of former President Donald Trump. LSU Political Science Professor Dr. Robert Hogan says the D-N-C went smoothly and reflects well on Democrats…

Cut 3 (12) “…two parties.”

Democrats had been lagging in the polls before President Joe Biden dropped out of the race, but have since caught up. Hogan says neither the D-N-C nor the R-N-C are likely to sway anybody except swing voters, but adds both campaigns need to ensure they’re focusing on appealing to all types of voters…

Cut 4 (12) “…going to win.”

The D-N-C featured many emotional moments, including Harris re-introducing herself and her background to the nation. Both campaigns have used emotion, especially fear of what could happen if the other was elected, to appeal to voters. Hogan says this type of appeal is normal…

Cut 5 (11)  “…this sort of rhetoric”

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Officials have arrested 34-year-old Jason Chiasson Jr. of Holden in connection with a boating accident that caused two deaths and several injuries. LDWF Sgt. Randy Lanoux says Chiasson Jr. was driving a Sea Fox up the Tickfaw River just after midnight on July 28 when he collided with a pontoon boat traveling downriver…

Cut 6 (11) “…(x2) was killed.”

In addition to the two deaths, several passengers on both boats were severely injured in the crash. Lanoux says there’s evidence not only that Chiasson Jr. was impaired at the time of the crash, but also that he wasn’t following basic boating safety rules…

Cut 7 (12) “…basically.”

Chiasson Jr. was booked into the Livingston Parish jail on multiple counts, including vehicular manslaughter, first-degree vehicular negligent injury, and DWI. Though Lanoux doesn’t expect any more arrests, he says everybody in that situation came out a loser.

Cut 8 (09)  “…winners here.”

This is an ongoing investigation.

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Nearly 550-million dollars in renovations have been completed on the Superdome just in time for the Saints to host the Titans on Sunday in the final preseason game of the year. Superdome spokesperson Mike Hoss says the renovations were done to improve the fan experience

Cut 9 (09) “…concourse.”

Hoss says the four-phase renovation project removed hundreds of thousands of square feet of concrete ramps and replaced them with escalators, which resulted in more open space and it allowed for natural light to get inside the building…

Cut 10 (09) “…different areas.”

Hoss says the amount of space that’s inside Superdome has increased dramatically, which will make it a lot easier for people to get to and from their seats…

Cut 11 (07) ” …well spent.”

The Saints regular season home opener is September 8th and the Caesars Superdome will host the Super Bowl on February 9th.

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A tragic story out of Terrebonne Parish , as State Police are investigating a school bus crash that led to the death of 7-year-old Jeremiah Falgout (Fal-goo). Trooper Tiah Larvadain says the bus hit the child Thursday afternoon after dropping him on off on LA Highway 665 in Montegut….

Cut 12 (11) “…critical injuries.”

Falgout died from his injuries at a local hospital. The bus driver was restrained and uninjured in the crash, and no other passengers on the bus were injured either. Larvadain says the bus driver was NOT under the influence…

Cut 13 (07) “…detected.” 

The crash is still under investigation.

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LSU football will have two players wearing number 7 and 18 this year. The number seven jersey goes to LSU’s top playmaker. Offensive tackle Will Campbell will once again wear a number seven patch and linebacker Harold Perkins is changing his jersey number to seven. 2-4-7 sports LSU reporter Glen West says Perkins had a strong preseason camp

Cut  14 (10) “…tackles for loss.”

Running back Josh Williams and linebacker Greg Penn will each wear 18, which goes to the player who is a great representative of LSU football on and off the field. West says Williams arrived on LSU’s campus as a walk-on in 2019 and now he is a starter…

Cut 15 (10) “…of the ball.”

West says Penn was one of the most productive players on LSU’s defense last year and he’s been a glue guy…

Cut  16 (07)   “…defensive room.”

In two different speeches in north Louisiana this week, Governor Jeff Landry talked about the need for tax reform. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Colleen Crain”

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AccuWeather is predicting 6 to 10 named storms during what it calls “Supercharged September.” Mel Bridges has the details.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Mel Bridges.” 

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State and federal transportation officials meet in Baton Rouge today to discuss proposed changes to the I-20 Tarbutton exit interchange and service road to accommodate the construction of a Buc-ee’s. Sean Richardson has more…

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.” 

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This week, Governor Jeff Landry said for Louisiana to experience generational change it needs to reform its tax code by eliminating tax breaks for special interest groups. What does he mean by special interest groups? Lapolitics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says that’s the oil and gas industry, petrochemical and farming industries….

Cut 4 (10) “…if at all.”

There has been talk of a tax reform special session in early 2025 and an interest to lower the state’s personal income tax. The elimination of certain tax breaks could offset the loss of revenue from a lower personal income tax. Alford says we’ll have to wait on the details

Cut 5 (12) “…that direction.”

Tax reform has been a buzz word at the state capitol for decades. Alford says Landry is not the first governor to propose a major change to the state’s tax code that would include the elimination of certain tax breaks…

Cut 6 (06) “…very issue.”

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Louisiana’s Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) has opened the application process for Phase 3 of SUN Bucks. This program is designed to provide financial assistance of a one-time benefit of $120 dollars to families with children who would have received free or reduced-price meals if schools were open. Eligible families can receive benefits for the summer of 2024, aimed at helping cover the cost of meals during school closures. DCFS Economic Stability Director Tim Jenkins says they have received over two thousand applications so far…

Cut 7 (06) “…September 20th.”

Phase 3 applications are open for households with children who attended CEP schools that receive free school meals without having to complete a form. Each eligible child receives the one-time payment on a EBT card, which can be used to purchase food at stores that accept SNAP benefits. Jenkins says the child will have 122 days to use the funds…

Cut 8 (07) “…the account.”

DCFS has made the application process straightforward, accessible online, and urges those in need to take advantage of this opportunity to ease the financial burden of feeding their children during the summer months. Jenkins says parents can reach out with any questions or to check the status of their application…

Cut 9 (10)  “…8:30 till 2:30.”

To apply, families need to provide basic information such as the child’s name, school attended, and household income. Go to louisiana-dot-summer-ebt-app.com.

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After a quiet August, AccuWeather is predicting 6 to 10 named storms during what it calls “Supercharged September.” AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jon Porter says we didn’t see many named storms in August due to the Saharan Air Layer and favorable wind shear…

Cut 10 (10) “…persistent problem.”

With mitigating factors clearing up, Porter says we can expect storms to start appearing as early as Tuesday. He says the Gulf’s record-high water temperatures create the perfect environment to make storms worse…

Cut 11 (10) “…other concerns.”

Besides wind and coastal flooding, Porter says hurricanes can cause tornadoes and inland flooding days after the storm blows through. Porter recommends you start preparing for hurricanes now so you’re not caught unaware if one threatens Louisiana…

Cut 12 (11) “…September 10th.”

AccuWeather is also predicting an abnormally long Atlantic hurricane season that could end as late as December.

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Buc-ee’s, the popular Texas-based chain of travel centers, has cleared a significant hurdle in its plan to open a new store in Ruston. Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker says a critical meeting scheduled today in Baton Rouge to discuss the I-20 Tarbutton interchange design to accommodate the project.

Cut 13 (09)  “…will be about.”

The proposed Ruston store will be located near the I-20 corridor. The store is expected to boost the local economy by creating ja minimum of 200 jobs and increasing sales tax revenue. Walker says they plan to break ground on the site soon, with construction anticipated to take 12-15 months.

Cut 14 (12)  “…other places.”

Local officials and residents have largely welcomed Buc-ee’, viewing it as a significant development for Ruston. The store is expected to draw visitors from across the region, enhancing Ruston’s reputation as a travel destination. With this latest approval, Buc-ee’s is one step closer to making its Louisiana debut.

Cut 15 (07)  “…entire state.”

There are also plans to build a Buc-ee’s off of I-10 in Lafayette.

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The Saints conclude the preseason on Sunday by hosting the Tennessee Titans. With roster cuts just around the corner, Dennis Allen and the coaching staff will look for players to stand out. With 11 wideouts on the roster, Saints analyst Mike Detillier says one of they’re one of the most competitive battles…

Cut 16 (17) “…to play.” 

The Saints defense is expected to be a strength again this year with the success of free agent edge rusher Chase Young and progression of defensive tackle Brian Bresee. The starting safety spot alongside Tyrann Mathieu is still up for grabs but Detillier says this secondary is one of the most talented he’s seen

Cut 17 (20) “…stand out.”

The ongoing backup quarterback battle between Jake Haener and Spencer Rattler will headline the game, but Detillier has bigger offensive concerns…

Cut 18 (17)  “…question mark today.”

Trevor Penning and Oli Udoh have been splitting reps at right tackle while veteran Lucas Patrick has taken over starting reps at left guard with Nick Saldiveri sidelined. Patrick left practice with cramps Wednesday, and undrafted rookie Kyle Hergel has climbed the depth chart.

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McNeese will be one of the first college football teams to take the field this year as they kick off their season tomorrow against Tarleton State. The Cowboys are led by redshirt senior quarterback Cliffton McDowell. McDowell won Big Sky Newcomer of the Year last season as he led Montana to the FCS National Championship game. McNeese Head Coach Gary Goff says he brings experience to a young squad

Cut 19 (17) “…what he’s doing.”

The Cowboys finished winless in the regular season last year and were picked to finish 6^th in the nine-team Southland Conference this season. The Texans hope to build on an 8-and-3 season last year. Goff says the week zero game against Tarleton State is a great opportunity to bring attention to the program, but he won’t let pressure get to his players…

Cut 20 (19) “…hard work in.”

Grambling State University has made history by opening Louisiana’s first digital library. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 1 (30) …I’m Mel Bridges.”

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Baton Rouge police made the largest fentanyl seizure in state history yesterday. Kace Kieschnick has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.” 

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Grambling State University made state history by opening Louisiana’s first digital library building earlier today. Dean of the Digital Library and Learning Commons Adrienne Webber says keeping everything online gives everyone access to the most recent, relevant information.

Cut 3 (08) “…minutes.”

The digital library has no physical material. Instead, it provides access to more than one-point-six million digital books and pieces of research material. Webber says this ensures students are prepared not only for research in higher education, but also for the tech-forward workforce.

Cut 4 (09) “…this information.”

Webber says purely online material removes the need for multiple physical copies or constantly purchasing current research material. Additionally, she says, the digital library reflects a tech-forward shift not just among students, but among libraries and institutions as well.

Cut 5 (12)  “…with the times.”

The seventeen million dollar facility is also the only one of its kind at an HBCU.

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Baton Rouge Police have seized approximately 181 pounds of fentanyl as part of an investigation into the alleged drug trafficking operations involving 42-year-old Cendy Keophimanh (sen-dee kee-oh-fe-men). It’s believed to be the largest fentanyl seizure in Louisiana history, Lt. L’Jean MckNeely says the drugs seized in this investigation have the potential to save 42 million lives

Cut 6 (09) “…southeast region.”

Keophimanh was arrested last week following another large drug seizure including around 150 pounds of methamphetamine. Detectives conducted another search warrant at a house on Vermillion Drive connected to the suspect. McKneely says Baton Rouge was being used as a midpoint distribution center…

Cut 7 (08) “…and then distributed.”

Also seized were over 100 doses of Adderall and Xanax, a money counter, an air hydraulic shop press, 42 kilogram stamps and four guns. Fentanyl is the leading cause of overdose deaths in East Baton Rouge Parish and McKneely says they need the public’s help to find find the drug dealers and traffickers…

Cut 8 (13)  “…behind bars.”

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The power in a premium office building in downtown Shreveport is set to be shut off Monday afternoon because the owners haven’t paid the electric bill for months. Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell says an investment group from California owns Regions Tower.

Cut 9 (11) “…five hundred thousand dollars.”

Regions Tower is over 90 days overdue on a building-wide electricity bill totaling around half a million dollars. SWEPCO says they’ve been in contact with the California-based company that owns the building to keep the lights on, and Campbell says the tenants are also trying to make a deal…

Cut 10 (12) “…out in California.”

SWEPCO began posting disconnection notices around Regions Tower yesterday to give tenants time to make plans in case the power does go out. SWEPCO External Affairs Manager Michael Corbin says turning off the power is the last thing they want to do…

Cut 11 (12) ” …moment.”

Building owner Hertz Investment Group of Sherman, California haven’t commented on the situation yet.

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32-year-old Precious Hicks of Virginia was sentenced to 35 years in prison after being found guilty of drug trafficking charges in Louisiana. Hicks was arrested in January of 2023 after she and her boyfriend were pulled over traveling on I-12. St. Tammany Parish Assistant District Attorney Tiffany Dover says Highway Enforcement found marijuana in open view and several boxes of Fruity Pebbles cereal…

Cut 12 (14) “…ecstasy pills.”

The boxes of cereal were determined to contain almost 8,000 methamphetamine pills weighing over 4 pounds. During a formal police interview Hicks and her boyfriend admitted they had purchased the pills in Texas with the intent of selling them back in Virginia. Dover says this is what the Highway Enforcement Unit is there for…

Cut 13 (11) “…to buy drugs.” 

Hicks’s boyfriend plead guilty prior to the trial and without a criminal history, received a probation sentence. Dover says the judge considered Hicks’s criminal history of firearm, assault, larceny, fraud, forgery, drug, ad prostitution convictions when passing down the 35-year sentence…

Cut  14 (10) “…state of Florida.”

The Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education unanimously approved new policies from the Let Teachers Teach workgroup. Mel Bridges has the details.

Cut 1 (28) “…I’m Mel Bridges.”

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Governor Jeff Landry spoke on juvenile detention center funding of 100 million dollars at the Monroe Chamber of Commerce and what will be done to improve the juvenile justice system in Louisiana. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.” 

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The Louisiana Department of Energy and Natural Resources is creating an Offshore Wind Road Map to properly take advantage of offshore wind energy. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Mel Bridges.” 

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The Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) unanimously approved new policies based on State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley’s Let Teachers Teach workgroup. Brumley says the new policies free teachers from what he calls “onerous bureaucracy”…

Cut 4 (10) “…from learning.”

The policies focus on expanding teacher autonomy and creating a disruption-free classroom by tightening student discipline, giving more lesson planning freedom to effective teachers, and reducing the number of training teachers have to repeat every year….

Cut 5 (11) “…paperwork on teachers.”

Some of the approved policies are ensuring misbehaving students are removed from a classroom immediately if a teacher requests it, giving effective teachers more freedom to plan lessons, and reducing repeat teacher training. Brumley says enforcing these policies will be a collaborative effort between state and local educators…

Cut 6 (11) “…simply teach.”

The policies will take effect before the end of the school year.

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While speaking to the Monroe Chamber of Commerce, Governor Jeff Landry says the state Legislature  appropriated 100 million dollars to increase the number of juvenile detention center beds around the state and  state dollars will also be spent on ensuring juvenile offenders have access to the necessary resources for rehabilitation

Cut 7 (06) “…path that we’re on.”

Landry also discussed the new law that would allow 17-year-olds to be charged as adults for serious crimes. He believes this will address the rising levels of violent crime among teenagers as it will act as a deterrent

Cut 8 (08) “…amount of violence.”

Together, these initiatives reflect the state’s effort to balance public safety with the need for a more effective approach to juvenile justice. Landry hopes that by expanding detention facilities and enacting stricter laws, they can reduce crime while providing better opportunities for rehabilitation.

Cut 9 (12)  “…incarcerated in there.”

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An Offshore Wind Road Map for Louisiana is being developed by the state Department of Energy and Natural Resources (DENR) to ensure they’re able to properly take advantage of offshore wind energy. DENR Communications Director Patrick Courreges (core-ayj) says the road map will help answer questions like…

Cut 10 (11) “…(x2) in that field?”

The road map will serve as a guide for Louisiana’s growing offshore wind industry, addressing things like the supply chain, economic considerations, and shared use of state-owned waters for different interests. Courreges says the Bayou State basically has the workforce part figured out, since…

Cut 11 (10) “…pretty well.”

DENR wants public participation in the road map, and will hold a Zoom meeting on September 5 from 11 to 1 to discuss the road map with the public. Courreges says they want to make sure the public understands the wind industry and its many parts, and the public can help figure out…

Cut 12 (10) “…they can there?”

The meeting agenda, public comments link and other information can be found at louisianaoffshorewind.com.

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The World Health Organization declared monkeypox, or m-pox, a global health emergency as the disease ravages Africa. Tulane Epidemiology Professor Dr. Susan Hassig says mpox was able to spread so quickly among African countries because of…

Cut 13 (10)  “…most affected.”

Mpox spreads through intimate skin-to-skin contact, such as a mother holding a child for long periods of time, and Hassig says those who are immunocompromised or have existing skin conditions are especially prone to mpox…

Cut 14 (11)  “…other organ systems.”

Hassig says while mpox is a concern, it’s not likely to affect the U.S. or even tourists to Africa, since mpox spreads via intimate contact. She says mpox was likely made a global health emergency to spread awareness of the disease…

Cut 15 (08)  “…that it’s happening.”

Hassig stresses that mpox is a treatable disease.

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The LSU football team is preparing to kick off the season against 23^rd-ranked USC September 1. The Tigers have lost their season opener four years in a row. Head Coach Brian Kelly will need his revamped defense to stop Lincoln Riley’s high-flying Trojan offense. LSU brought in five new defensive coaches this offseason to improve one of the SEC’s worst groups last season…

Cut 16 (17) “…third down situations.” 

Junior preseason All-American linebacker Harold Perkins will lead the defensive unit. Perkins has been a dominant edge rushing talent but will move to inside linebacker after an unsuccessful switch inside last season. Kelly says Perkins has been different this offseason…

Cut 17 (20) “…(x3) around him.”

Junior gunslinger Garrett Nussmeier will lead the offense this year. The big-arm quarterback has wowed with his passing ability but has been reckless with the football in his limited action. Kelly says Nussmeier’s approach has changed as the starter…

Cut 18 (21)  “…team’s hands.”

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The Saints play their final preseason game against the Titans Sunday. First-year offensive Coordinator Klint Kubiak will call plays from the sideline as he leads the revamped Saints offense in their first home game. Star wide receiver Chris Olave is eager to play in Kubiak’s new scheme…

Cut 19 (17) “…next step.”

Olave has been an impact player for the Saints since being drafted 11^th overall in 2022. The Ohio State product has produced back-to-back one-thousand-yard seasons, but it’s not just his playmaking he worked on this offseason. It’s his run blocking…

Cut 20 (18) “…this year.”

East Baton Rouge authorities have ruled the death of a six-month-old left in a car all day last month an accident. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (31) …I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Halfway through the Democratic National Convention, several polls show Kamala Harris will small lead over Donald Trump. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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Governor Jeff Landry expects Louisiana will continue to rise in the national rankings for K-through-12th grade public education. According to the latest U-S News and World Report, Louisiana  ranks 40th. Landry says reforms and approved in the last regular session will lead to a higher ranking

Cut 3 (11) “…three years.”

Landry says the state is putting policies in place that puts the parents in charge of a child’s education. The governor says the best example of that is the Louisiana Gator Program, which will replace the state’s current voucher program. He says Louisiana Gator will expand over time allowing more students of all income levels to use taxpayer dollars to attend the school of their choice…

Cut 4 (07) “..mailing address.”

Landry is also excited about the state’s Let Teachers Teach imitative. He thanks to new laws approved by the legislature and finalized by BESE, teachers will no longer be subjected state-mandated training on issues that do not need to be addressed every and teachers are also getting more freedom over lesson plans…

Cut 5 (08)  “…s0cial workers.”

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East Baton Rouge authorities have ruled the death of an infant left in a hot car all day last month an accident. The parent told deputies they forgot to drop their six month old child at day care in the morning and realized the terrible mistake when they went to the day care facility after work. Kids and Car Safety Director Amber Rollins says usually when this happens its completely accidental and

Cut 6 (08) “…rest of their lives.”

According to Rollins, these accidents often result from a combination of stress, fatigue, and changes in routine, which can disrupt normal memory processes.

Cut 7 (11) “…dropped off in the first place.”

Rollins says to create a visual reminder for when your child is in the car with you, which can break a parent out of autopilot. Rollins suggests keeping a large stuffed animal in the back seat…

Cut 8 (11)  “…child is with you.”

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Former Lt Governor and New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu is serving as a platform committee co-chair at the Democratic National Convention. The platform was approved on the floor by a voice vote after hearing from Landrieu…

Cut 9 (07) “…Medicare.”

But Louisiana Republican US Senator Bill Cassidy says the Biden-Harris administration’s economic plan led to historic inflation and prices could rise again if the federal government decides to forgive one-point-four trillion dollars in student loans.

Cut 10 (08) “…this election.”

The platform features common themes used by Democrats since Donald Trump became the favorite to be the Republican Presidential nominee…

Cut 11 (08) ” ..be higher.”

Cassidy says for Trump to win in November, he needs to stick to the issues…

Cut 12 (09) “…on that.”

The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality and Ascension Parish signed a memorandum of understanding to deal with a red dust problem around a former aluminum plant. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Mel Bridges.”

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Ground has been broken on the long awaited Jimmie Davis Bridge replacement project. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Mel Bridges.” 

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 Two people were arrested, and 33 dogs were rescued from poor living conditions in a Jamestown residence in Bienville Parish. Colleen Crain has the story.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Colleen Crain.” 

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The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality and Ascension Parish have signed a memorandum of understanding to deal with pounds of red dust falling on homes and schools around the former L’Alumina aluminum plant in Sorrento. LDEQ Secretary Aurelia Giacometto (Aw-real-ea Gee-ack-oh-met-oh) says the M-O-U basically says…

Cut 4 (12) “…(x2) the parish.”

The red dust is actually bauxite (bock-site), a waste product of aluminum production that can harm the lungs and heart if inhaled. Giacometto says the dust is blanketing nearby communities because it was stored improperly when L’Alumina shut its doors in 2020.

Cut 5 (11) “…a decade or so.”

L’Alumina dumped the red dust, which is actually an aluminum waste product called bauxite, in ponds with sprinkler systems when they closed in 2020. However, the sprinklers often don’t work, causing the dust to travel with wind. Giacometto says the issue won’t go away on its own…

Cut 6 (09) “…solved overnight.”

LDEQ’s cleanup would cost 13 to 18 million. They have 5.5 million from L’Alumina, and they’re in contact with the company to get more.

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The 43rd Annual Louisiana Governor’s Conference on Juvenile Justice is set to take place today through Friday, at Sam’s Town Hotel & Casino in in Shreveport. Governors Board on Juvenile Justice Chair Vieve (vi-eve) Kohrs says the conference aims to foster collaboration, share best practices, and explore innovative solutions to improve the juvenile justice system in Louisiana.

Cut 7 (12) “…(x2) juvenile justice.”

The conference also serves as a platform for networking and building partnerships among participants committed to reforming and improving outcomes for at-risk youth.

Cut 8 (12) “…of the state.”

This year’s agenda includes topics such as juvenile delinquency prevention, rehabilitation programs, and mental health support. By addressing these issues, the event aims to create a more just and effective system that prioritizes the well-being and development of young people in Louisiana. Kohrs hopes this will help the system be more consistent and data-driven…

Cut 9 (06)  “…can have success.”

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Ground has been broken on the long awaited Jimmie Davis Bridge replacement project. The 360 million dollar project will be a new bridge connecting south Bossier City and Shreveport. DOTD Secretary Joe Donahue says the project, which has been in development since 2008, is a big deal for Louisiana.

Cut 10 (12) “…long time coming.”

The new bridge will have two more lanes, a median, and three spaces for U-turns; and the old bridge will be converted into a walking bridge. The project will also see LA-511 widened near the bridge to accommodate the extra lanes. Donahue says this project is more than just a bridge…

Cut 11 (08) “…currently.”

The current bridge was built in 1968 and sees around 26 thousand vehicles every day traveling between Caddo and Bossier parishes. This project not only creates a new bridge with more lanes, but also transitions the old bridge into a walking bridge.

Cut 12 (12) “…transportation system.”

The new bridge is expected to be completed by late 2026.

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Bienville Parish Sheriff’s deputies arrested two people in Jamestown and removed 33 dogs from poor living in poor conditions. 32-year-old Tanya Michelle Griffith and 29-year-old Allen Tyler Meylian face 32 counts of cruelty to Animals. Humane Society of Louisiana Director, Jeff Dorson says since Bienville Parish has no Animal Control Department, animal rescue is up to the Sheriff’s office…

Cut 13 (07)  “…rehome them.”

26 dogs were rehomed. Originally there were 34 dogs at the residence but one died in the poor conditions, another died in route to another location, and 5 were deemed a public health and safety issue. Dorson says, too many parishes don’t have the funding for a animal control or shelter.

Cut 14 (08)  “…or surrenders.”

The Humane Society of Louisiana is called upon to handle abused animals, many times from hundreds of miles away and Dorson says they need volunteers and donations to help with the expensive operations…

Cut 15 (09)  “…dollars, easily.”

Those wishing to donate can visit humanela.org

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Ragin Cajuns Coach Michael Desormeaux has made a decision on his starting quarterback for the season opener against Grambling, but he’s not saying who

Cut 16 (19) “…better camp.” 

Two redshirt seniors have been battling for Q-B- one, Chandler Fields and Ben Woolridge. Desormeaux feels good about both of them…

Cut 17 (17) “..pretty soon.”

If you are looking for a player to emerge, Desormeaux says six-foot-six tight end Caden Jensen from Flower Mound, Texas had had a good camp…

Cut 18 (13)  “…for us.”

43-year-ol Anthony Hughes was shot after a Spirit Night event on Monday behind Bossier High School football stadium by 32-year-old Marcus Kelly. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (35) …I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Governor Landry discussed the need for tax reform during a visit to northwest Louisiana. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (27)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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43-year-old Anthony Hughes is recovering after getting shot near Bossier High School’s football stadium as a Spirit Event was taking place last night. Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office Lt. Matt Gaydos says Hughes got into an altercation with some juveniles during the event, leading to a fight in the parking lot. Gaydos says 32-year-old Marcus Kelly shot Hughes and then the two were involved in a car crash…

Cut 3 (10) “…back of Kelly’s vehicle”

Gaydos says law enforcement responded quickly and prevented anymore violence. Gaydos says this is highly unusual for Bossier and they want to make sure nothing like this happens again…

Cut 4 (09) “..for improvement.”

Both were taken to Ochsner’s LSU Medical Center to treat their injuries. Kelly was released then arrested and transported to the Bossier Maximum-Security Facility where he was booked on multiple charges…

Cut 5 (05)  “…school campus.”

An arrest warrant for Aggravated Criminal Property Damage is pending for Hughes upon his release from the Hospital and Kelly’s bond has been set at $305,000.

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A judge has set a bond of one million dollars for 32-year-old Hannah Cormier of Jennings bond after she was charged with second-degree murder for allegedly leaving her 10-month-old daughter in a car for two hours while she worked a shift at Wendy’s. Jennings Police Chief Danny Semmes…

Cut 6 (12) “…second degree murder.”

Authorities believe the child died from heat exposure.  While Cormier was at work, the heat index rose above 106 degrees and police say, the inside of the vehicle felt like 140 degrees.

Cut 7 (06) “…temperature of 109-degrees.”

Investigators revealed that the mother claimed to have forgotten her child in the car, but given the circumstances, she was taken into custody. The charge of second-degree murder indicates there is intent or extreme recklessness involved. Semmes says this is not a simple case…

Cut 8 (10)  “…negligent homicide.”

Authorities say that if Cormier is convicted of second-degree murder, she can face up to life in prison.

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On the first night of the Democratic National Convention, a woman from Baton Rouge told the crowd at the D-N-C about her inability to get medical treatment while miscarrying because of the state’s near-total abortion ban. Kaitlyn Joshua was denied care in 2022

Cut 9 (11) “…my life.”

Republican Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murril says there’s nothing in the state’s law that prohibits emergency care for someone having a miscarriage or any emergency situation during pregnancy.

Joshua says she’s not the only women unable to get an abortion because of a medical emergency that threaten the mother’s health…

Cut 10 (09) “…their doctors.”

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Governor Jeff Landry told the Bossier Chamber of Commerce that tax reform and revamping the state’s department of transportation will be a major focus next year. Landry says when it comes to the state’s tax code, there’s too much of a benefit for special interests

Cut 11 (10) ” ..special interests.”

Landry says when it comes to revamping the state department of transportation, he wants to remove the bureaucracy that’s in place, which he says is holding the state agency back…

Cut 12 (07) “…non-existent.”

A third party group is already assessing the efficiencies of the state department of transportation.

Landry promises thorough discussion on both topics, tax reform and reorganizing the state department of transportation…

Cut 13 (12) “…of Louisiana.” 

Louisiana Public school enrollment is down five percent for the 2024-25 academic year, according to a recent report from the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (36) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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 The U.S. Supreme Court sided with Louisiana’s injunction blocking the Biden administration’s expansion of Title IX to include gender identity. Colleen Crain has the story.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Colleen Crain.” 

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The Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) is considering State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley’s Let Teachers Teach policy package. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 3 (27) “…I’m Mel Bridges.” 

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Governor Jeff Landry and Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Secretary Madison Sheahan have asked the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services to expand hunting opportunities for black-bellied whistling ducks. Sheahan says they’d like to either add the ducks to the existing teal season, which runs mid- to late-September…

Cut 4 (09) “…here in Louisiana.”

Black-bellied whistling ducks can currently be hunted during the regular winter waterfowl season, which runs from November to January. LDWF is proposing the black-bellied whistling duck season start as early as early September, since, according to Sheahan…

Cut 5 (10) “…own season.”

Black-bellied whistling ducks are a nuisance to hunters and farmers alike: they show up earlier and earlier in larger numbers each year, they confiscate wood-duck nests, and they wreak havoc on rice farms. Shehan estimates they cause 500 thousand to one million dollars’ worth of damage to rice farms every year…

Cut 6 (09) “…grain elevators.”

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Public school enrollment in Louisiana has decreased for the 2024-25 academic year, according to a recent report from the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana (PAR) by five percent. The decline continues a trend seen in recent years, with fewer students attending K-12 public school. PAR President Steve Procopio says the numbers are concerning…

Cut 7 (10) “…numbers in there.”

Procopio says several factors contributed to this downward trend are an increase in alternatives like charter schools, private schools, homeschooling, population loss, and COVID-19.

Cut 8 (07) “…came back.”

The reduction in enrollment poses challenges for the state’s education system, particularly in terms of funding. Public schools on average has been spending more now than in 2019. Procopio says that’s not a major issue now.

Cut 9 (03)  “…people would think.”

The drop in enrollment is also concerning for long-term workforce development, as fewer students in the public school system could translate to fewer graduates entering the local job market.

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The U.S. Supreme Court sided with Louisiana’s injunction blocking the Biden administration’s expansion of Title IX to include gender identity. Attorney General Liz Murrill sought the injunction just 13 minutes after the administration redefined the rule. Friday the Court upheld the temporary injunction that was granted in June. Murrill says for Louisiana schools and universities it means…

Cut 10 (12) “(x2)…this rule.”

The Court rejected the Biden administration’s attempt to vacate the temporary injunction, but Murrill says the fight isn’t over. She will have to defend it before the Court, and she will continue fighting to keep Title IX from being rewritten because in some areas…

Cut 11 (11) “…their biology.”

Murrill says the expanded Title IX rule is also an assault on free speech…

Cut 12 (07) “…they did.”

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State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley’s Let Teachers Teach policy package is being considered by the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education which meets today and tomorrow. Brumley says one of the goals of the new education policies is giving effective educators more freedom over lesson planning, as currently…

Cut 13 (10)  “…to professionals.”

The main points of Let Teachers Teach include explicit expectations for student discipline, allowing effective teachers more freedom over lesson planning, and reducing state-mandated teacher training…

Cut 14 (12)  “…teach their kids.”

Brumley says the policies also tighten student discipline, giving teachers the right to have a student removed from the classroom immediately when their behavior prevents instruction.

Cut 15 (09)  “…return to the classroom.”

If the policy package is approved, it would apply for every public school in the state.

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Governor Jeff Landry is holding a press conference today to launch GUMBO 2.0, bringing high-speed broadband internet access to the entire state.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The Council for A Better Louisiana, or CABL (cable) says Louisiana’s wellbeing is trending downwards. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Colleen Crain.” 

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New Orleans Representative Mandi Landry is in Chicago this week for the Democratic National Convention. Jeanne Burns has the story.

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Jeanne Burns.” 

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Governor Jeff Landy is holding a press conference today to announce the launch of Gumbo 2.0. Marksville Representative Daryl Deshotel, who has been instrumental in improving broadband access around the state, says the program will allow for the distribution of $1.35 billion to bring high speed internet to rural areas.

Cut 4 (05) “…good positive way.”

Funding for GUMB0 2.0 came from the Infrastructure Act and received the eighth-largest amount of money out of any state. Deshotel credits that to the success of GUMBO 1.0…

Cut 5 (06) “…but we’re ahead.”

Deshotel says that this funding will bring internet connectivity to every home and business across Louisiana and create jobs for rural communities.

Cut 6 (05) “…close the digital divide.”

Today’s press conference will begin at 11 AM at the state capitol.

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The Council for A Better Louisiana (CABL, pronounced cable) says the state is making progress on less than half of the 35 indicators for wellbeing, and trending slightly downwards from last year. CABL president Barry Erwin says one problem area is health and wellness…

Cut 7 (09) “…those things.”

CABL monitored Louisiana’s progress in five areas: economy, which showed a decline; health and wellbeing, which also declined; infrastructure, which largely improved; environment and energy, which was a mixed bag; and education, which Erwin says improved a lot…

Cut 8 (12) “…right direction.”

16 indicators are trending downwards, compared to 13 last year, and 7 were down for two years in a row. Plus, 16 are trending upwards compared to 18 last year. Erwin says the best way to improve these numbers is to create policy to address problem areas like the economy and healthcare…

Cut 9 (12)  “…help us make progress.”

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State lawmakers are looking for ways to reduce auto rates after Marketwatch.com crowned Louisiana the state with the highest full-coverage car insurance rates last week. House Speaker Phillip DeVillier says legislators are trying to figure out why Louisiana is an outlier in auto insurance rates…

Cut 10 (12) “…as well.”

DeVillier says most of his pre-session research has been focused on insurance fraud, which poses a big threat to the state. He adds lawmakers understand how much auto insurance is squeezing the people of Louisiana, and says they’re considering going into a special session to address it…

Cut 11 (08) “…that we have.”

Last session saw a few bills approved addressing the auto insurance crisis, but he says a key tort reform bill was vetoed by Governor Jeff Landry. DeVillier says that veto brought awareness to the insurance crisis and allowed legislators to refocus…

Cut 12 (08) “…insurance reform.”

Five legislative committees are meeting monthly about the insurance crisis and to prepare for a possible special session.

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New Orleans Representative Mandi Landry is in Chicago for the Democratic National Convention. She was locked in to go with the Louisiana Delegation while President Joe Biden was the nominee, but says she’s more hopeful about current nominee Vice President Kamala Harris…

Cut 13 (10)  “…polar opposite.”

Landry says she’s excited and proud to publicly support Harris and her campaign policies, including stopping companies from gouging prices and…

Cut 14 (12)  “…get that done.”

Landry says Harris and running mate Minnesota Governor Tim Walz are normal people and they call Walz “Dad” because of his humor and principles…

Cut 15 (12)  “…a teacher.”

The DNC runs through Thursday, August 22nd.

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We’re two weeks away from the season opener and it’s been a good camp for Tigers starting quarterback Garrett Nussmeier. Coach Brian Kelly liked what he saw from his signal caller last Saturday…

Cut 16 (20) “…out there.” 

The Tigers have been in camp for two and a half weeks. Kelly says he likes the improvement from his cornerbacks…

Cut 17 (13) “..job one.”

Ashton Stamps and Sage Ryan have been starting corners for most of camp. It’s also been a good camp for fifth-year senior defensive tackle Jacobian Guillory, who earned a degree from LSU this summer. Kelly says when he first arrived at LSU, Guillory was not a good player…

Cut 18 (20)  “…football player.”

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Louisiana Tech is moving closer to its season opener against Nicholls. Bulldogs Coach Sonny Cumbie says it’s been a good camp for their starting quarterback Jack Turner…

Cut 19 (08) “…run game.”

The Bulldogs defense had just 16 sacks last year. Cumbie believes they can put more pressure on the quarterback this year…

Cut 20 (22) “ play fast.”