Former LSU pole vaulter and Louisiana native Mondo Duplantis set another world record at the Paris Olympics. Mel Bridges has the story.

Cut 1 (31) …I’m Mel Bridges.”

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Minnesota Governor Tim Walz is Vice President Kamala Harris’s running mate as she campaigns for president. Jeff Palermo has more.

Cut 2 (00)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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At the Olympics, former LSU pole vaulter and Lafayette native Mondo Duplantis, who competed for his mother’s home country of Sweden, vaulted 20 and a half feet to break the world record for the ninth time and win a gold medal. Duplantis says in the moment, he wasn’t focused on getting the world record, he was just focused on making the jump.

Cut 3 (11) “…really good.”

Duplantis started pole vaulting as a child in his backyard in Lafayette, using a pit dug by his parents-slash-coaches, who had met when they were both on the LSU track and field team. Nine world records later, Duplantis says he didn’t think about setting a record while he was vaulting, but it all hit him once he hit the ground.

Cut 4 (12) “…freaking out.”

After he won gold and set an Olympic record, Duplantis had the bar moved one centimeter higher than world record height. Though he missed his first two jumps, he made the third and sealed a world record. He says he’s so thrilled about winning, he can’t possibly think about what’s next.

Cut 5 (12)  “…except this.”

Duplantis is 24-years-old and the next Summer Olympics is in Los Angeles in 2028.

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Triple-digit high temperatures are expected across the state this week, as highs will threaten to break records. LSU Climatologist Barry Keim says Louisiana is baking under another heat dome…

Cut 6 (10) “..Gulf of Mexico.”

Keim says when it’s this hot, visits to the emergency room increase with people suffering from heat related illnesses. He says if you are going to be outside for long periods, where loose fitting clothing…

Cut 7 (12) “…little bit.”

Keim says even the early morning temperatures will also be oppressive…

Cut 8 (07)  “…above normal.”

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Vice President and Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris has chosen Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, and is expected to introduce him at a rally in Philadelphia this evening. John Couvillon of JMC Analytics says Walz is a safe pick for the Harris campaign, adding Walz is…

Cut 9 (10) “…Democratic Party.”

Walz has shown that he can work well with both parties, as he spent his first term as governor with a divided state Congress. However, Couvillon says Walz has proved himself to be quite progressive since getting re-elected.

Cut 10 (12) “…re-elected.”

Though Walz as progressive as Harris, Couvillon says the white, male governor provides a good optical foil to Harris. Couvillon drew comparisons between them and another Democratic presidential pair: Barack Obama choosing Joe Biden as his vice president in 2008.

Cut 11 (10) ” …for president.”

Before serving as governor, Walz was a teacher, member of Congress and command sergeant major in the Army National Guard.

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An arrest has been made in connection to the July 22nd murder of a Marksville man. Tim Ryan with the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Department says officers responded to a call of a deceased person near LA Highway 1192 and found Gary P. Normand of Marksville deceased.

Cut 12 (11) “…suspects involved.”

One of the suspects is 19-year-old Jacob E. Michot, also of Marksville, who was arrested on July 30th on charges of Principle to 2nd Degree Murder and Possession of Stolen Things related to Normand’s murder. Ryan says Michot isn’t the only suspect in this case.

Cut  13 (08) “…forthcoming.” 

Michot is in custody of APSO with a 1.1 million dollar bond.

Democrat Kamala Harris is expected to pick her running mate this week as she continues to campaign for president. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Mel Bridges.”

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A Wallet Hub Study just ranked Louisiana 2024’s 8^th worst state to have a baby. Colleen Crain has the details…

Cut 2 (35)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.” 

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The Humor and Harmony Festival is this Thursday through Sunday in Shreveport, and it looks like its going to be a huge success. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.” 

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Presumed Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris is expected to pick her running mate this week. LSU Political Science Professor Dr. Robert Hogan says Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is the likely pick, since he brings a lot to the table that Harris is looking for.

Cut 4 (12) “…running in Pennsylvania.”

Hogan says whoever Harris picks has to have executive experience, which points towards a governor. The most important thing Harris’s vice president has to have, he says, is a more moderate view to balance out Harris’s liberalism.

Cut 5 (12) “…fit that bill.”

Though Harris is expected to announce her running mate in Pennsylvania, Hogan says that’s not a guarantee that she’ll pick Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro, the most likely candidate, as her vice president.

Cut 6 (10) “…be successful.”

Other potential running mates include Arizona Senator Mark Kelly and Cabinet Secretary Pete Buttigieg.

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Having a baby is difficult and according to a recent Wallet Hub study it’s much harder in Louisiana, ranked 2024’s 8^th worst state to have a baby. Analyst, Cassandra Happe (happy) says to rank the states, they used 31 metrics from four key categories…

Cut 7 (11) “…overall.”

Happe says the low ranking was largely due to challenges in the healthcare category where the Bayou State came in 49^th due to issues like a high infant mortality rate and …

Cut 8 (11) “…birthweight.”

Happe adds, there are also too few pediatricians and family medicine physicians.

Happe says there were some very bright spots for Louisiana in the study…

Cut 9 (13)  “…overall.

_____________________________________________________________________

It’s almost time for students to go back to school, and Dr. Michelle Yetman, a clinical psychologist with LSU Health Shreveport, says there are several important things parents can do to make sure your child is prepared for the school year mentally, physically and emotionally.

Cut 10 (10) “…as well.”

Yetman says school stress affects students of all ages, and that the most common stressors are fear of the unknown and change. She recommends you start setting up school routines with your child before school starts to make the transition easier.

Cut 11 (11) “…enjoyable for kids.”

Yetman says it’s good to be more hands-off as your child gets older, but kids don’t always tell their parents if they’re struggling at school. She recommends you establish communication with your child’s teacher, but the level of communication should be relative to your child’s age.

Cut 12 (12) “…certain things.”

Yetman says one of the most important things a parent can do is ask their child how they’re doing at school and really listen to their response.

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The Humor and Harmony Festival in Shreveport kicks off Thursday through Sunday with Stand-up Comedy shows featuring Kat Williams, Andrew Schultz and Matt Riff to name a few with surprise guest appearances. Visit Shreveport-Bossier President and CEO Stacy Brown…

Cut 13 (09)  “…our community”

Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson is the mastermind behind the festival and responsible for bringing an incredible musical lineup including Ray J, 2Chainz and DaBaby.

Cut 14 (09)  “…bringing it all together.”

The festival is estimated to bring in over 30 thousand visitors and have a significant economic impact for the city. Brown says the G-Dome located in Downtown Shreveport is a nightlife venue that holds over 4-thousand people and will simulcast the Comedy and Music shows…

Cut 15 (05)  “…as well.”

Currently there are at least three downtown hotels sold out and they expect that number to increase as the festival approaches.

Go to Visit-Shreveport-bossier-dot-org for more information.

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LSU was ranked 12th in the US LBM preseason coaches poll yesterday. The Tigers will look a lot different this season with junior quarterback Garrett Nussmeier at the helm. Star offensive tackle Will Campbell says he can’t wait to see “Nuss” light up the SEC this season…

Cut 16 (19) “… lot of points.” 

Campbell leads one of the top offensive lines in the country this season. After losing Jayden Daniels’ 1,00-plus yards rushing last season, Head Coach Brian Kelly expects to lean on his offensive line and a traditional rushing attack. Campbell says the run-game will be much more developed this season…

Cut 17 (20) “…stop it.”

The Tigers defense will have to improve from last year if they want to stay in the running for the 12-team playoff this season. The defensive line will be a focal point throughout camp. Senior defensive tackle Jacobian Guillory says he’s excited to lead the unit…

Cut 18 (17)  “…from me.”

The Bayou Bengals kick off the 2024 campaign September 1 in Las Vegas against 23rd-ranked USC.

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Louisiana Tech is hoping to improve after three consecutive 3-and-9 seasons. Tech hired Northern Iowa Defensive Coordinator Jeremiah Johnson to help improve the Bulldog’s last-ranked defense. Johnson says his unit will be aggressive…

Cut 19 (19) “…as a family.”

In 11 seasons at Northern Iowa, Johnson’s defense ranked in the FCS top 10 in turnovers six times. Senior defensive back Cedric Woods says the Bulldogs have a new chemistry that will help in tight games. He and the defense are looking to disrupt opposing offenses…

Cut 20 (19) “…bar none.”

Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves will lead a field hearing at Nicholls State for Republicans in the House Natural Resources Committee on drilling and restoration in the Gulf. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Mel Bridges.”

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The Great American Seafood Cookoff is what’s on the menu Saturday in New Orleans. Brooke Thorington has more on the competition.

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Over 80 years after a Louisiana WWII soldier died in the Philippines, he’ll be laid to rest in Bogalusa. Mel Bridges has the story.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Mel Bridges.” 

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is co-leading a field hearing for Republicans in the House Natural Resources Committee on drilling and restoration in the Gulf later today in Thibodeaux. He says though some members of Congress from coastal states may share some issues with Louisiana, our state’s shoreline is different from any other because of…

Cut 4 (10) “…United States.”

Graves estimates 6 or 7 members of the committee will join him in Lafourche Parish for the conference, including some from coastal states. However, Graves believes Louisiana’s coastal issues are different from the issues of other coastal states because Louisiana’s shore isn’t just beachy or rocky.

Cut 5 (10) “…come down.”

Graves says this field hearing is for the group to examine both the beauty and concerns of Louisiana’s coast. He hopes a firsthand look will help the House Natural Resources Committee come up with ideas to help Louisiana’s shoreline.

Cut 6 (11) “…our economy.”

The conference is being held at Nicholls State University.

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The 20^th Annual Great American Seafood Cookoff is Saturday and Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says Chase Woodward of Parish Restaurant in Monroe will be representing Louisiana. The event will take place at the Louisiana Restaurant Association’s Tradeshow in New Orleans.

Cut 7 (11) “…best seafood dish.”

Woodward will be competing against 13 other chefs to see who wins the title of the King or Queen of American Seafood. Nungesser says he’s hoping the title will return to the Bayou State.

Cut 8 (08) “…to Louisiana.”

And Nungesser says the chef from Lainey Wilson’s Nashville restaurant Bell Bottoms Up will also be there.

Cut 9 (12)  “…this year.

The event kicks off at 11 am with a parade through the Morial Convention Center

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82 years after U.S. Army Private First Class Joseph C. Murphy died as a prisoner of war in the Philippines during WWII, he’ll be laid to rest in Bogalusa. Louisiana Secretary of Veterans Affairs Col. Charleton Meginley says Murphy’s surviving family will be at the burial at Pounds Pool Cemetery in Bogalusa tomorrow…

Cut 10 (09) “…of Bogalusa.”

Murphy was just 20 years old when he died in a prisoner-of-war camp in the Philippines in 1942. He was buried in a mass grave and remained unidentified until scientists used dental records to identify him in April. Meginley says he can’t imagine the anguish Murphy’s family has been feeling.

Cut 11 (11) “…proper burial.”

Murphy will be laid to rest tomorrow at Pounds Pool Cemetery in Bogalusa at 11, followed by a ceremony and service at the local American Legion. While Murphy’s surviving family will attend the funeral, it’s also open to the public. Meginley says he hopes people show up

Cut 12 (11) “…fewer and fewer.”

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New laws concerning voter registration drives are in effect in Louisiana. Joel Watson with the Secretary of State’s Office says those wishing to hold one must be registered with their office or the Registrar of Voters in their parish. Watson points out that doing so is not their office giving clearance to conduct one.

Cut 13 (08)  “…contact you.”

Groups conducting fully electronic drives that use the Secretary of State’s voter portal at GeauxVote.com however, will not be required to register with their office. And as always when it comes to voting information in Louisiana Watson says….

Cut 14 (04)  “…more information,”

New laws concerning absentee voting also went into effect this week. You can find more information at sos.la.gov

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Two LSU Tigers who suffered season-ending knee injuries last season were on the practice field for the first day of preseason camp. Running back John Emery sustained a torn ACL against Florida on November 11th. Emery is among four scholarship running backs available to carry the football. Coach Brian Kelly says they’ll use camp to see what Emery can do…

Cut 15 (11)  “…going to go.

Cornerback Zy Alexander is also back after tearing his ACL on October 21st. Kelly says Emery and Alexander will use the first few days of camp to see how their repaired knees respond…

Cut 16 (19) “… feeling that.” 

Alexander is expected to start at one cornerback spot, who starts at the other is a big question. Freshman PJ Woodland is a possible candidate. Kelly says they are looking for consistent play from their corners…

Cut 17 (16) “…younger players.”

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The UL-Lafayette football team begins fall camp today in the third year under Head Coach Mike Desormeaux. After back-to-back 6-and-7 seasons, Desormeaux says he’s fielding the most complete team he’s had yet. He says the Cajuns need to compete each day and win close games…

Cut 18 (11)  “…from everybody.”

Desormeaux says the message to his team this camp is there are no starters. He wants to see competition at every position, none more so than quarterback. Seniors Chandler Fields and Ben Woolridge have fought for the starting job the last two seasons, and Desormeaux will have to make that call again…

Cut 19 (18) “…to do it.”

The Cajuns led the Sun Belt in yards per carry and were top three in total rushing yards last season, but they were the second worst team in rushing allowed. Desormeaux says he and his staff will emphasize trench-play this preseason…

Cut 20 (20) “…we want.”

The hearing that was scheduled for today on the possible sale of Steward Health Care, the operator of Glenwood Regional Medical Center in West Monroe to American Healthcare Systems has been postponed to August 13th. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (28) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Newsweek ranked St. Tammany Parish Hospital in Covington as the 104th best cancer hospital in the U.S. and the best cancer hospital in Louisiana. Mel Bridges has the details.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Mel Bridges.” 

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The Senate overwhelmingly approved legislation to update online data privacy rules for children. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Mel Bridges.” 

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The Louisiana Department of Education has named Dr. Amanda Austin from Iberville Math, Science, and Arts (MSA) Academy East in St. Gabriel as Principal of the Year.

Cut 4 (04) “…smiling faces.”

Austin started as an elementary school teacher fifteen years ago and became Assistant Principal at Plaquemine High School and now is the Principal at Iberville MSA Academy East.

Cut 5 (09) “…this school year.”

Austin says throughout her career she has worked with amazing principals who mentored her when she was teaching and now, she can become a mentor for her teachers.

Cut 6 (07) “…those opportunities.”

She’s also credited with reopening North Iberville High School after the school had been shuttered for more than a decade and created a thriving school with a STEM magnet program.

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A judge was expected to certify the transfer and bankruptcy proceedings of Steward Health Care, the operator of West Monroe’s Glenwood Regional Medical Center, today but it’s been pushed to August 13th. Because the actual property is owned by Medical Properties Trust, Monroe Representative Michael Echols says American Healthcare Systems should be buying the asset, not the operator.

Cut 7 (11) “…Ponzi schemes.”

Echols says he doesn’t believe American Healthcare Systems’ bid of a half-million to purchase the operator is the best option for Glenwood.

Cut 8 (09) “…operator.”

Echols says there needs to be fail safes in place to avoid disruption in care for medical facilities in Louisiana.

Cut 9 (12)  “…to light.

Since being forced by the Louisiana Department of Health to reduce patient load because of Steward’s financial problems, Monroe area hospitals have had to accept more patients.

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A Newsweek ranking found St. Tammany Parish Hospital in Covington to be the 104th best cancer hospital in the U.S. and the best in Louisiana. St. Tammany Health System President Joan Coffman says the ranking, which was determined in part through patient surveys, is an honor.

Cut 10 (12) “…broader community.”

Newsweek used professional surveys, hospital quality metrics, and patient experience surveys to rank each hospital. Coffman says while St. Tammany has partnerships with other hospital networks across the state, the secret to St. Tammany’s success is their staff.

Cut 11 (09) “…in partnership with so many.”

Market research firm Statista reported there were about 2 million new cases of cancer last year and 609,000 cancer-related deaths. Coffman says she and her team prioritize screening education and early detection to try and stop cancer before it’s a problem.

Cut 12 (09) “…focus on.”

Additionally, Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge came in 110th and Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge came in 140th in the rankings.

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The Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act is heading to the House after passing the Senate on a 91-3 vote. Senator Bill Cassidy says his legislation, nicknamed COPPA 2.0, updates online data privacy rules for children, like banning data collection on users under 17 instead of just those under 13.

Cut 13 (08)  “…peer pressure.”

COPPA 2.0 expands on the original COPPA from 1998 by adding modern updates like requiring companies to create an “Eraser Button” which would let users remove a minor’s personal online information. Cassidy says COPPA 2.0 is about protecting online users when they’re most vulnerable.

Cut 14 (10)  “…those laws,”

Cassidy disagrees that COPPA 2.0 borders on censorship or violates internet companies’ First Amendment rights, saying it’s no different than banning cigarette ads towards minors. He thinks internet companies haven’t been respectful of children’s online privacy since…

Cut 15 (12)  “…harmful behavior.”

The Senate also passed the Kids Online Safety Act, which Cassidy cosponsored.

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New Saints defensive end Chase Young has looked good in his limited reps during team drills at training camp. New Orleans is bringing Young along slowly after undergoing offseason neck surgery. Cam Jordan and Carl Granderson are penciled in as the starters at defensive end, but Coach Dennis Allen was asked if Young could play himself into the starting lineup…

Cut 16 (22) “…starting lineup.” 

2024 first round pick is Taliese Fuaga (Tall-ee-s-a Foo-ah-gah) is getting reps with the first team at left tackle. Fuaga played right tackle at Oregon State and Allen likes what he’s seen from the former All-American…

Cut 17 (20) “…left tackle position.”

Congressman Clay Higgins is among the 13-member House task force investigating the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Governor Jeff Landry spoke with Jim Engster on Talk Louisiana today about the pushback the newly signed ten Commandments law is receiving from civil liberty groups and faith leaders in the state. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Sean Richardson.” 

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A groundbreaking ceremony for the new nursing Annex Building at Nicholls State University, home of the Thibodaux Regional Health System School of Nursing was held today. Dean Raquel Engolio says this marks the beginning of a project aimed at enhancing the university’s nursing education facilities.

Cut 3 (07) “…enter the field.”

The annex will provide state-of-the-art classrooms, simulation labs, and collaborative spaces designed to support the growing needs of the nursing program and its students. Engolio says currently the program enrolls 80 students per semester …

Cut 4 (10) “…the end goal.”

The project is seen as a critical investment in the future of healthcare in the region with the $27 million in funding from state-appropriated funds

Cut 5 (12)  “…workforce.”

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Southwest Louisiana Congressman Clay Higgins will serve on the bipartisan House task force investigating the assassination attempt of former President Trump. ULM political science professor Pearson Cross says because Higgins is among the most conservative members of Congress…

Cut 6 (12) “…meant to do.”

With several conspiracy theories circulating about the shooting, Cross believes Higgins will most likely bring a skeptical view to the panel which he believes is an asset if Higgins says it was a thorough investigation and he agrees with their findings.

Cut 7 (10) “…way quickly.”

The task force is composed of seven Republicans and six Democrats. Cross says it will be interesting to see the extent to which each member comes in with a set agenda. Are they there in a fact-finding role or will they bring in a preset view of what they think occurred?

Cut 8 (12)  “…doesn’t happen.”

Higgins released a statement that he’s looking forward to working with bipartisan colleagues to deliver the truth.

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Governor Jeff Landry spoke with Jim Engster on Talk Louisiana about the pushback against the passage of the Ten Commandments Law which requires all state-funded schools and universities to display the Ten Commandments in every classroom. The law is set to go into effect on January 1st. Landry signed the controversial measure into law last month.

Cut 9 (09) “…if you would.”

The law is facing litigation from several families and advocacy groups, who say it violates the separation of church and state.

But Landry argues that the Ten Commandments are the foundation for our rule of law and they are woven into the fabric of America’s laws…

Cut 10 (05) “…believe in America.”

The Ten Commandments law has been widely shunned by civil liberty groups and faith leaders as being a gross infringement on the rights of students and a violation of the separation of church and state under the Constitution. Landry disagrees with the plaintiffs in a lawsuit against the law..

Cut 11 (12) ” …First Amendment.”

Landry and Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill support the new law, and Murrill says she is looking forward to defending it. A hearing in a federal courtroom is scheduled for September 30th.

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Louisiana Senator John Kennedy had a chance to grill U-S Secret Service Acting Director Ronald Rowe on Capitol Hill today about the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. Kennedy questioned Rowe on why Secret Service snipers didn’t see Thomas Crooks laying on a roof 150 feet away from were Trump was speaking

Cut 12 (11) “…neutralized.”

Rowe testified before the Senate Judiciary and Homeland Security committees. Kennedy is a member of Senate Judiciary. Kennedy says the Secret Service snipers were in an elevated position above the roof and he doesn’t understand why they didn’t see Crooks…

Cut  13 (05) “…see the guy.” 

Kennedy says he’s heard reports Secret Service snipers saw Crooks 20 minutes before he fired his AR-style rifle. Rowe says that report is inaccurate

Cut  14 (06) “…threat to the president.”

Passenger rail service could be soon available for a route that connects New Orleans to Mobile, Alabama. Brooke Thorington reports Mobile officials have to sign off on the deal…

Cut 1 (33) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Lafourche Parish President Archie Chaisson (shasson) says cleanup efforts are going well following a Bayou Lafourche oil spill Saturday. Kace Kieschnick has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.” 

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Rain chances are down this week compared to the last couple of weeks and all of the rain that has fallen in south Louisiana this month has helped the state’s sugarcane crop. South Louisiana crop consultant Blane Viator says rainfall totals are way above normal…

Cut 3 (15) “…in maturity.”

St. James Parish sugarcane farmer Bryce Gautreau says rainfall totals are way up over last year when the sugarcane struggled to grow because of drought conditions….

Cut 4 (11) “…last year.”

LSU Ag Center sugarcane specialist Doctor Kenneth Gravois says sugarcane production has been increasing in Louisiana and that trend will continue this year…

Cut 5 (07)  “…this year.”

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Passenger rail service from New Orleans to Mobile is closer to getting on track, as soon as February 2025. Chair of the Southern Rail Commission Knox Ross says Amtrak and the City of Mobile will begin finalizing the paperwork over the next week so platform work can start in Mobile.

Cut 6 (11) “…downtown New Orleans.”

Ross says the goal is to have service up and running in time for the 2025 Superbowl in the Big Easy

Cut 7 (10) “…Super Bowl.”

At one time there was passenger rail service from New Orleans to Jacksonville, Florida. But it ended with Hurricane Katrina’s devastation in 2005. Ross says they’ve been working on reinstating it ever since. Ross says rail service between New Orleans and Mobile would be twice daily, morning and night.

Cut 8 (10)  “…back home.”

Stops in between New Orleans and Mobile will include Gulfport, Biloxi, and Pascagoula, Mississippi.

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Cleanup efforts are underway after a large oil spill in Bayou Lafourche Saturday. The spill was traced to a leaking fuel tank and valve failure at the Crescent Midstream pumping station in Raceland. Lafourche Parish President Archie Chaisson (shasson) says response has been immediate and effective…

Cut 9 (12) “…been contained.”

Public water sourced from the bayou is safe to drink while residents are still advised to conserve water out of an abundance of caution. Chaisson says containment efforts were focused around water intakes, secondary precautions are in place within the plant, and the Louisiana Department of Health is on-site for additional sampling…

Cut 10 (09) “…huge issue.”

17 aquatic salamanders, two turtles, and one crawfish were found dead because of the spill. Officials are searching for three alligators and four ducks covered with oil. Chaisson says most of the deceased wildlife was found in the stormwater drainage ditch before the leak entered the bayou…

Cut 11 (08) ” …after the fact.”

Residents can report oiled wildlife to (832) 514-9663 and are advised not to try to capture or treat oiled wildlife themselves.

LEAP scores show Louisiana hasn’t fallen behind other states, but it’s also not time to let our foot off the gas. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (28) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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 The Lafayette Police Department is mourning the death of Senior Corporal Segus Jolivette (See-guss Jah lu-vette) who was killed in the line of duty. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 2 (35)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.” 

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The tropics are showing signs of getting active again. Bill Jacquemin has more on a disturbance in the Atlantic that’s showing signs of development…

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Bill Jacquemin” 

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The Tiger Athletic Foundation has created a new subsidiary that will help LSU’s NIL Collective Bayou Traditions raise money so it can provide enhanced NIL opportunities for student athletes. TAF President Matt Borman says the Tiger Athletic Foundation has been raising money since 1987 for capital projects for LSU athletics now they’ll assist with NIL efforts…

Cut 4 (12) “…database management.”

Borman says this innovative agreement will ensure that contributors to Bayou Traditions will allow supporters receive T-A-F priority points…

Cut 5 (10) “…to T-A-F.”

Borman says the new partnership will help LSU Athletics keep up in the ever-competitive NIL space. He says many past collective donations were from a few large historic donors but hopes the agreement will make supporting student-athletes more accessible to all Tiger Fans…

Cut 6 (13) “…numbers here.”

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Standardized test scores from other states indicate students are behind due to the pandemic, but the latest LEAP scores show Louisiana public schools students are performing at pre-COVID levels. However, Council for a Better Louisiana President Barry Erwin says it’s still not a cause for celebration.

Cut 7 (12) “…big challenge.”

2024 LEAP scores show a slight improvement in English scores. Erwin says it’s an indication early literacy policies are working and now the state department of education will put more of an emphasis on improving math scores

Cut 8 (12) “…make up.”

Math scores are a challenge across the country and in Louisiana students have historically performed below par. Erwin says new policies focusing on early intervention with math will hopefully prove positive results.

Cut 9 (12)  “…able to read.”

Erwin says Louisiana couldn’t afford to let students get further behind because of the pandemic and we also can’t afford to let them remain stagnant either.

________________________________________

The investigation continues into the Thursday’s fatal shooting of a Lafayette Police Officer. Senior Corporal Segus Jolivette was gunned down while trying to end a hostage situation in Jeanerette. The 35-year-old was one of four officers shot, but his wounds were fatal. State Police Trooper Peggy Bourque says L-S-P is leading the investigation…

Cut 10 (12) “…available.”

Media outlets in Lafayette have identified the shooter as 31-year-old Nyjal Hurst. He was taken into custody after an hours long standoff with law enforcement. Hurst has a long criminal history and officers went to the home he was staying at on Thursday morning to arrest him on multiple charges. Bourque says they are asking the public to assist in the investigation…

Cut 11 (12) “…hotline.”

Jolivette leaves behind a wife and five children. He also once served on the Opelousas Police Department. Interim Lafayette Police Chief Paul Trouard is appreciative of the support his department has received since Thursday’s shooting…

Cut 12 (10) “…greater Acadiana community.”

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Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) confirmed four human cases of West Nile neuroinvasive disease in Winnsboro. LDH Epidemiologist Theresa Sokol says West Nile in the sate isn’t unusual…

Cut 13 (11)  “…in Winnsboro.”

Sokol says West Nile can result in a range of diseases with 80-percent showing no symptoms, around 20 percent showing flu-like symptoms called West Nile fever, and only 1 percent experiencing neuroinvasive disease which can kill 1 out of 10 people who develop the disease.

Cut 14 (07)  “…of the disease,”

Sokol says to remember there’s no vaccine for West Nile so practice preventative measures like…

Cut 15 (12)  “…really important.”

LDH has reported a total of eight West Nile neuroinvasive disease cases in the state in 2024.

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The Saints begin their first full week of training camp today in Irvine, California. One of the questions heading into the season is the role versatile Taysom Hill will play in new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak’s offense. Hill admits it’s tough to tell until you get to game week…

Cut 16 (23) “…look like.” 

Saints safety Tyrann Mathieu is entering his 12th year in the NFL. Mathieu says he’s been able to last this long in the NFL because he takes his job seriously…

Cut 17 (20) “…plays too.”

The 32-year-old signed a new two-year contract in May and winning a Super Bowl for his hometown team remains his number one goal…

Cut 18 (22)  “…let it loose.”

Responding to a hostage situation Thursday, a Lafayette SWAT negotiator was killed in the line of duty.  Brooke Thorington

Cut 1 (27) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”

A candlelight vigil will be held in his memory tonight (Friday July 26th) at Jeanerette City Hall at 7 pm.

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Legislative leaders have announced no special session on tax reform this year, but they want to take a crack at it before their term is up. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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There are new rules for New Orleans Mardi Gras on what you can’t bring to parade routes. Mardi Gras Guide publisher Arthur Hardy says the devil isn’t just in the details it’s also in enforcement. He says it will be interesting to see how that’s carried out. Among the banned items are…

Cut 3 (10) “…now banned.”

In addition to portable toilets, tents, and canopies on public property; Hardy says grills, BBQ pits, and generators are prohibited.

Cut 4 (07) “…anymore.”

Reptiles and horses are also prohibited within 200 feet of a parade route, except for horses participating in the parade.

Many revelers are used to bringing many of the banned items for decades, so Hardy believes the new rules will be
hard to enforce especially the closer you get to Fat Tuesday when the crowd sizes increase.

Cut 5 (06)  “…buy in.”

Throw guidelines have also changed, among the banned throws are confetti, silly string, and anything with a sharp point.

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There will not be a tax reform special session this year, but House Speaker Phillip DeVillier says the goal for this Legislature is to pass some meaningful reforms in the near future to bring more businesses to the state. DeVillier says he would like to get suggestions from the Louisiana Department of Economic Development

Cut 6 (12) “…and why?”

DeVillier says before legislators hold a special session on tax reform, they would like to get more input from business leaders and state agencies to find out what’s keeping businesses from locating and growing in Louisiana

Cut 7 (11) “…don’t know.”

DeVillier says instead of holding a tax reform special session this year, he’s asked the House Ways and Means and Commerce committees to hold meetings over the next several months to get an idea on what changes need to be made

Cut 8 (11)  “…our state.”

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Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for the 2024 presidential election. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan…

Cut 9 (12) “…this process.”

Obama pledged to support her campaign against the Republican nominee, former President Donald Trump. This endorsement follows President Joe Biden’s recent withdrawal from the race and his endorsement of Harris, signaling strong party support for her candidacy.

Cut 10 (08) “…route to doing that.”

The backing from the Obamas is expected to significantly boost Harris’s campaign and solidify her position as the Democratic nominee t o run against Trump.

Lt. Billy Nungesser says if the election were held today Trump would win but Trump could get in his own way if he’s not careful.

Cut 11 (08) ” …trashing the opponent.”

Harris and Trump have yet to agree to debate each other, but it’s possible they could face off in September. Nungesser says Trump’s attacks against a female candidate will be watched closely…

Cut 12 (11) “…he takes it.”

A US Senate health committee is investigating Steward Health’s financial mismanagement, a committee co-chaired by Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (34) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Legislative leaders announce there will not be a special session on tax reform this year. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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The US Senate Health Committee has voted 16-4 to subpoena the CEO of Steward Health, Dr. Richard de la Torra. Committee Co-Chair Senator Bill Cassidy says they are investigating what led to Steward’s bankruptcy which is severely impacting care at hospitals across the country including West Monroe’s Glenwood Regional Medical Center.

Cut 3 (11) “…West Monroe.”

Due to limited resources at Glenwood, the state forced the facility to operate at one-third of its capacity, which has put a strain on hospitals across the river in Monroe. Cassidy says Steward’s financial mismanagement has had deadly consequences.

Cut 4 (06) “…to treat.”

What happened at Glenwood is not unique. Cassidy says at a Steward-owned hospital in Massachusetts, a woman died after giving birth…

Cut 5 (11)  “…Steward’s hospitals”

In June the committee asked de la Torre to testify, but he refused, didn’t offer another date, or have another Steward Health representative appear. Cassidy says this has forced the committee to subpoena him.

Glenwood is one of 31 Steward hospitals across the country.

A hearing is set for July 31^st for Steward’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings and American Healthcare Systems’ bid to be the new owner of Glenwood.

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Talk of a special session next month so that lawmakers can vote to hold a constitutional convention…is dead. Lapolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says legislative leaders announced today there are no plans to reconvene in Baton Rouge anytime soon.

Cut 6 (12) “…this fall.”

Alford says Senate leaders have shown no interest in holding a constitutional convention this year.

Governor Jeff Landry pushed for a constitutional convention this year. Landry says the convention could lead to positive tax reform that would give state lawmakers more flexibility during tough financial times. But Alford says making major changes to a state constitution is a huge endeavor.

Cut 7 (10) “…a constitution.”

The state will see a reduction of 600-million dollars in state revenue starting next fiscal year when a temporary state sales tax expires on July 1st, 2025. Alford says changes to the constitution could be needed to respond to this potential budget deficit, but legislative leaders are not ready to hold a constitutional convention…

Cut 8 (06)  “…could see that.”

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Phase 2 of the state’s SUN Bucks program begins this week. It’s a program that provides a one-time payment of 120-dollars to low-income families who can use the money to help pay for groceries when children are out of school for the summer months. DCFS Economic Stability Director Timothy Jenkins says EBT cards will be sent in waves over the next few weeks…

Cut 9 (07) “…students.”

Phase 2 recipients include children who have Medicaid insurance, or are part of the FITAP or Kinship Care Subsidy Program.

Cut 10 (07) “…Phase 2 benefits.”

75-thousand EBT cards will go out each week and children will receive a one-time payment of $120. Jenkins says the clock starts as soon as the SUN Bucks are issued…

Cut 11 (05) ” …expunged.”

Phase 2 of SUN Bucks will issue close to $38 million in benefits to more than 320 thousand children around the state.

Phase 3 application period for children not automatically certified in Phases 1 and 2 will open in late August.

The state department of education released LEAP scores from the last school year and the results show progress has stalled after a couple of years of improvement. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) …I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Some say the value of a solid educational foundation is priceless but certified early childhood educators in Louisiana are getting $15 an hour or less. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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State education officials say LEAP scores from the last school year show third through eighth graders improved their overall mastery rate by one percent in English. But Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley says math and science scores held steady after consecutive years of improvement

Cut 3 (11) “…those gains..”

Brumley says in an effort to increase outcomes, the state will make high-dosage tutoring more available…

Cut 4 (10) “…relatively quickly.”

Mastery rates declined in math for third and eighth grades. Brumley says falling math scores is an issue across the country. He says some of the methods used to improve English scores, they will now try in the area of math…

Cut 5 (10)  “…math as well.”

Brumley says he is pleased to see the overall mastery rate for students with disabilities improved in third through eighth graders for a third consecutive year.

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A survey of 700 childcare workers by the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children says the majority make around $15 an hour or less, about $28,000 annually. Executive Director Libbie Sonnier says retaining credentialed workers is hard because of the low pay. Still, it’s so important for building a solid foundation for children.

Cut 6 (12) “…to benefits.”

Sonnier refers to certified early childhood educators as brain architects because in the first four years of a child’s life 90-percent of their brain develops. She says they’ve received a grant to see how they can retrain these workers who are much more than babysitters…

Cut 7 (11) “…heart of quality.”

She says it’s a situation of pay now or pay later if Louisiana continues to lose these credentialed workers. Sonnier says childcare breakdowns cost Louisiana businesses $762 million annually and the state’s economy loses $1.3 billion annually. She says not only does it put children at a learning disadvantage…

Cut 8 (10)  “…our economy.”

The survey indicated public school pre-K teachers average $20 an hour in Louisiana. And according to the institute, a living household wage with two adults and two children is $23 an hour for each adult.

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Democrat Congressman Troy Carter announces new EPA funding for the City of New Orleans for $50-million through the Climate Pollution Reduction Grants Program to support greenhouse gas reduction measures over the next five years.

Cut 9 (11) “…metropolitan area.”

Initiatives include constructing six miles of protected bikeways, a blue bike fleet expansion from 800 to 2,000 bikes, the planting of 75-hundred trees in underserved neighborhoods, an e-bike rebate program for low-to-moderate income residents, and subsidies for solar installations.

Cut 10 (07) “…safer environment.”

Carter says the initiative will significantly reduce the city’s carbon footprint, promote green job growth, and create a healthier environment.

Cut 11 (09) ” …cleaner community.”

This program was made possible because of the Inflation Reduction Act which Carter helped craft and voted for.

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The Saints held their first training camp practice today in Irvine, California, and running back Alvin Kamara participated, even though he’s looking for a new contract. There was speculation Kamara would not practice until he got a new deal, but the veteran says he did not want to get fined for missing practices

Cut 12 (05) “…be here.”

Kamara is hopeful he’ll sign a new contract before the regular season starts in September….

Cut  13 (05) “…I do.” 

Kamara turns 29-years-old tomorrow and this is his eighth season in the NFL. He’s under contract for next season, but the money is not guaranteed and he would like to retire as a Saint…

Cut  14 (06) “…means.”

Kamara rushed for a career 694 yards last season.