A Louisiana community college will kick off a first-in-the-state wind turbine program this fall. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Mel Bridges.”

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Sharks off the coast of Florida attacked three women with one woman losing her left arm.  Sean Richardson has more from a shark expert in New Orleans.

Cut 2 (35)  “…I’m Sean Richardson.” 

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There have been recent incidents where car owners have gone after car thieves and the outcome in one case in Baton Rouge was deadly. Brooke Thorington has more from a self-defense expert..

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Nunez Community College in Chalmette is set to kick off a first-in-the-state associate’s program training students as entry-level wind turbine technicians. Dean of Instruction Reggie Poche (Po-shay) says there’s plenty of room for the program to grow

Cut 4 (09) “…Mexico.”

Nunez has the first wind-energy related degree program in Louisiana after approval from the Global Wind Organization. Poche hopes this program will push the state to modernize its energy sector, since…

Cut 5 (09) “…this country.”

Besides hands-on training for a field with above average pay, Poche says there’s another reason to consider becoming a wind turbine technician…

Cut 6 (09) “…program.”

The program is set to begin in the Fall 2024 semester.

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Three shark attacks off Florida coast last week sent three women  to the hospital.  Two of the women suffered arm and leg wounds and the third lost her left arm. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas curator Kristine Grzenda.   

Cut 7 (12) “…go to the beach”

Grzenda says globally there are only around 7,200 shark attacks annually so while the chances are rare you still need to remain alert at the beach.

Cut 8 (12) “…chord with us.” 

Dusk and dawn are the most likely times for shark attacks says Grzenda, but most of the time it’s a case of mistaken identity.

Cut 9 (09)  “…very costly one.”

Grzenda says when you’re at the beach remember you’re in their environment.

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Bacteria that cause strep throat and some hospital-acquired infections may save millions of lives. LSU Biological Sciences Professor, Roger Laine is working on cancer treatments using polysaccharides isolated from two different bacteria to destroy tumors. They work by attaching to receptors in the capillaries that feed the tumors…

Cut 10 (09) “…the tumor.”

Laine says treatment with the polysaccharides, CM101 and PS1, shows promise with minimal side effects because they target the blood supply and not the tumor itself which also prevents the tumor from becoming resistant to treatment.

Cut 11 (09) “…being affected.”

The use of polysaccharides for cancer treatment has been researched with some success as far back as 100 years but didn’t progress due to lack of understanding, technology, and funding. Laine’s work has been called profound with the potential to save countless lives.

Cut 12 (06) “…blood vessels.” 

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With car theft on the rise in Louisiana, there have been cases where car owners have tried to either confront the thieves during the theft or later when they track down their vehicle. In some cases, the car owner has been injured or even killed. Self-defense expert Dave Newman says it’s best not to confront them whatsoever…

Cut 13 (08)  “…or dead.”

Newman says if you find yourself witnessing a car theft, try to document as much as you can, for example, record the incident….

Cut 14 (10)  “…(x2) because of GPS.”

Then contact the police once you are out of harm’s way and give them as much information as possible.

Newman says it’s not a smart move to go after your vehicle if you can track it.

Cut 15 (11)  “…short answer.”

If you go after a thief or try to retrieve your vehicle and use a gun to do so, he says you can be found as the aggressor and face charges yourself. He says to let the police handle it but follow up with them on the whereabouts of your vehicle.

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The Saints begin a three-day mandatory minicamp today. The team has been going through O-T-As and the media on hand has been able to see a new offense get installed. Ross Jackson, host of the Locked on Saints Podcast, says new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak has players moving before the snap…

Cut 16 (16) “…helps a lot.” 

Jackson says several players have shown signs of developing during O-T-As. He says wide receiver A-T Perry has looked good…

Cut 17 (20) “…can be.”

Jackson says when it comes to rookies, he’s been impressed with sixth-round pick defensive tackle Khrstian Boyd from Northern Iowa…

Cut 18 (16)  “…that position.”

A bill that would lift licensing requirements to braid hair is dead in this year’s legislative session. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Mel Bridges.”

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Considering Louisiana has among the highest property and auto insurance rates in the country, insurance coverage for your pet here is the most affordable. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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This year’s edition of the KIDS COUNT Data Book shows the pandemic had an unprecedentedly harmful effect on student learning. Annie E. Casey Foundation President Lisa Hamilton says this report shows a higher percentage of Louisiana students suffered from trauma than students nationwide.

Cut 3 (10) “…nationally.” 

Hamilton says what’s interesting is that Louisiana did not see as many students who were chronically absent as the rest of the country.

Cut 4 (08) “…nationally.” 

Though the report found 30% of all students nationally were chronically absent from 2019 to 2022, nearly double pre-pandemic rates, Hamilton says Louisiana students are staying in school, and it shows.

Cut 5 (09)  “… on time.”

Hamilton says there are still pandemic funds out there that could help schools catch students up.

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A bill that would lift licensing requirements to braid hair did not make it through this year’s legislative session. Bill sponsor Mike Bayham of Chalmette says the bill is important to promote jobs in Louisiana.

Cut 6  (08) “…entry. ” 

The current rules say braiders must have at least 500 hours of education, which can cost as much as 20 thousand dollars. Critics of the bill say the hours are essential for education and safety. Bayham says they are cost-prohibitive and unnecessary.

Cut 7 (06) “…job.”  

Though the bill failed in the House Commerce Board, Bayham intends to bring the bill back next year, when he says the conditions are more favorable.

Cut 8 (08)  “…push this.” 

In addition to this legislation, a separate lawsuit against the licensing process is going through appeals.

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Even though Louisiana ranks among the country’s highest property and automobile insurance rates, you’d be surprised to learn that when it comes to pet insurance, Bayou State is ranked the most affordable. Dayna Drake with MarketWatch Guides says the statewide average to insure your pet is $36 a month.

Cut 9 (07) “…national average.” 

The national average is $46 a month. The price of pet insurance varies depending on the type of pet, breed, and coverage. Insurance for dogs costs more compared to cats.

Drake says location is a driving factor for costs, and Louisiana’s lower cost of living is reflected in veterinary costs. She also credits a state law for pet insurers.

Cut 10 (12) “…the vet.”

Like humans, routine care for your pet, she says, is best so any disease or illness can be caught early. Among the types of things pet insurance will pay for, depending on your coverage are…

Cut 11 (10) ” …vet visit.”

Drake says pet insurance in general does not cover pre-existing conditions or procedures that are considered elective.

NFIB jobs report say only 18 percent of small business owners are planning to increase compensation for workers. That’s the lowest since 2021. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Governor Jeff Landry has signed Marrero Senator Patrick Connick’s bill that would strengthen penalties against food establishments that do not clearly label imported seafood. Colleen Crain had more.

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.” 

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When you’re making your hurricane plans, don’t forget to include your pets. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Small business compensation plans fall to the lowest levels seen since 2021 according to the NFIB jobs report. Only 18 percent of business owners plan to increase compensation in the next three months. NFIB State Director Leah Long says this is concerning.

Cut 4 (08) “…going through.”

Long says, “It’s not that people aren’t willing to work… it’s finding the skilled qualified workers.”

Cut 5 (10) “…in a small business.”

One industry that is having trouble filling job openings is construction down one point from April and Long says its going to take more than higher wages.

Cut 6 (10) “…in the state.”

Forty-two percent of small business owners reported job openings they could not fill in May, up two points from April.

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A surge of imported shrimp and crawfish is flooding restaurants and grocery stores and customers are being misled to believe the product is locally caught. Marrero Senator Patrick Connick’s Menu Law aims to strengthen protection for consumers

Cut 7 (11) “…in this bill.”

In 2019 a law was passed to force restaurants to print on their menu if the product was imported and that year restaurants had 2600 violations with zero resulting in fines. Connick says that was due to the law being a non-critical violation and the new law would strengthen penalties making it a critical violation.

Cut 8 (12) “…two thousand dollars.” 

Now any establishment serving seafood must quote clearly display the country of origin in a manner that is easily visible to the consumer unquote. Connick says the restaurant association, retailers and importers voiced their concerns, but this is the right thing to do.

Cut 9 (12)  “…Louisiana hopefully.”

The law will take effect on January 1^st.

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In addition to making your hurricane plans for you and your family don’t forget about the four-legged members of your family.  LSU School of Veterinary Medicine spokesperson Ginger Guttner says Katrina taught to Louisianas never to leave their pets behind.

Cut 10 (12) “…driving around.”

Websites like petswelcome.com and bringfido.com can help you find pet-friendly hotels.

Guttner says to pack enough pet food for one week, and if you have a cat don’t forget litter and a litter box. Also, make sure you pack their medications and their monthly flea and tick medications.

And if you haven’t already, Guttner says now is the time to have your dog or cat microchipped

Cut 11 (11) “…come off.”

If your pet is already microchipped make your contact information is up-to-date.

Other things you should have readily available if you must evacuate are proof of vaccinations and rabies tags.

And remember to be patient with your pet when you have to leave your home. Guttner says they can tell when you’re stressed and a new environment for your pet could bring out behavioral issues.

Cut 12 (10) “…extra stops.” 

Even if your dog is housetrained, the stress of evacuating could cause them to have accidents.

For a list of hurricane preparedness visit LouisianaRadioNetwork.com

https://lsu.edu/vetmed/disaster_prep/tips_pet_owners.php

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College athletic departments are preparing for the likelihood of paying their athletes a total of 22 million dollars as a result of a historic antitrust case between the NCAA and two former college athletes. LSU Executive Deputy Athletics Director Verge Ausberry says they are just waiting for terms to be finalized

Cut 13 (11)  “…year to year.”

Ausberry expects LSU will remain competitive once revenue sharing between athletic departments and athletes becomes a reality…

Cut 14 (12)  “…look.”

The money that will go to the athletes will come from the massive TV deals that major conferences have agreed to with ESPN and Fox, plus other sources of revenue.

One potential new source is sponsor logos that will be permitted on football fields this year.

Schools will also look to cut costs. Texas A&M has already laid off more than a dozen staff members. Ausberry says LSU is looking to schedule more in-state schools for non-conference football games because it’s not as costly

Cut 15 (11)  “…range.”

As the crawfish season is coming to an end, just how bad was it? Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (28)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Governor Landry has signed legislation that prohibits transgender individuals from using restrooms, locker rooms and sleeping quarters at public schools and jails that do not match their biological sex. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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The Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Office has been featured on the A&E show “Murder at the Motel”. The episode tells the story of twenty-eight-year-old Sonya Ortego’s (or-ta-go) murder at the Dees Motel by Jackie Pruitt on March 24, 2016. Chief Deputy Jared Morton describes the scene.

Cut 3 (11) “…all over the walls.” 

Pruitt was traveling through town for a court date the following day and rented a room for the night. Morton says the motive for the murder remains unknown.

Cut 4 (06) “…at all.” 

Deputies found Pruitt at the courthouse where they questioned him and acquired a search warrant for his car and found the victims cellphone covered in blood. Morton noticed blood on his vehicle and scratches on his body. He was arrested and DNA obtained matched the victim.

Cut 5 (11)  “… at the hotel.”

Pruitt was convicted of first-degree murder in 2017.

You can watch “Murder at the Motel” on A&E or stream online now.

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Crawfish season is winding down, and to say it was an unpredictable one is an understatement.  LSU Ag Center Crawfish specialist Mark Shirley says towards the end of the season, April and May, supply increased in some fields, but that wasn’t the case for every crawfish farmer.

Cut 6  (11) “…those fields. ” 

At the start of the season, things looked extremely dire due to the summer drought and extreme heat. December through February Shirley says supply was down around 90 percent. In May supply increased, but Shirley says it was only 40 to 50 percent compared to other Mays.

Cut 7 (11) “…production year.”  

As for the outlook for the next mudbug season, Shirley says farmers are cautiously optimistic.

Cut 8 (11)  “… next year.” 

Shirley says even though supply increased in April and May, for the most part, folks in south Louisiana were able to enjoy them. Out-of-state eateries went without mudbugs this season.

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Governor Jeff Landry has signed what has been called the bathroom bill. The legislation prohibits a transgender individual from using a bathroom or locker room at a school that does not match their biological sex. Denham Springs Representative Roger Wilder says his legislation is designed to protect females, especially young girls…

Cut 9 (10) “…uh oh” 

Director of the Louisiana Trans Advocates, Peyton Rose Michelle, says this law will  only create more fear in the transgender community about bathrooms.

But Wilder says women should not have to worry about a biological man, who is now a transgender woman entering a bathroom

Cut 10 (05) “…their gender.”

The legislation also extends to bathrooms and sleeping areas at prisons and domestic violence shelters. It passed in the Houston on an 80-17 vote and in the Senate the vote was 29 to 10 in favor. Wilder says there was strong support for this measure

Cut 11 (04) ” …guidelines.”

After signing the bill, Governor Landry said in a statement that he’s proud to sign House Bill 608 which protects women’s safety and reinforces the very definition of what it means to be a woman.

A 2022 law to put speed cameras on the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge to prevent crashes was repealed by the legislature this session. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Lake Charles remains the Youth Sports Capital of Louisiana after they secured hosting rights with LHSAA for an additional two years.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Sean Richardson.” 

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A bill to repeal a law that would have put speed cameras on the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge is welcome news to St. Martin Parish Sheriff Becket Breaux.  In 2022 when lawmakers were discussing the option of speed cameras to reduce speeding and prevent crashes, he responded by…

Cut 3 (07) “…by 25-percent.” 

Breaux, who also worked as a state trooper, says in his experience speeding is not the main cause of crashes. He says it’s motorists driving slower in the left lane, distracted drivers…

Cut 4 (10) “…on the bridge.” 

Among the problems speed cameras present is that they cite the owner of the vehicle, not the person driving, Breaux says. And they can’t detect human and drug trafficking or give motorists discretion for speeding.

Breaux says monies collected from speeding fines also help fund things like the Indigent Defense Board and Crimestoppers. When a speed camera issues a fine those monies aren’t distributed to other agencies…

Cut 5 (11)  “… goes on.”

When the original legislation passed two years ago, Breaux says the process moved too fast and the opinions of others were not considered.

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Lake Charles has secured hosting rights for boys basketball, swimming, softball and baseball high school championships for an additional two years. Senior Vice President of Sports at Visit Lake Charles Erick Zartler says they couldn’t be happier…

Cut 6  (07) “…staple here. ” 

The 2025 state high school baseball tournament will have a new format as the top three divisions in select and non-select will move to a best out of three championship series, instead of winner take all…

Cut 7 (12) “…Lake Charles.”  

Over the course of the year around 45 to 50 thousand people head to Lake Charles for high school championship events and Zartler says that brings a huge economic impact

Cut 8 (06)  “…hotels full.” 

The state swim meet will be in November with basketball state championships taking place in March, followed by softball and baseball tournaments in May.

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Governor Jeff Landry has declared today as “Secure Your Load for Road Safety Day.” Louisiana Highway Safety Commission spokesperson Greg Fischer says it’s important for motorists to properly secure items to prevent them from becoming traffic hazards.

Cut 9 (10) “…their loads.” 

Objects as common as two-by-four pieces of wood or a suitcase can create a lethal problem on the road. Fischer urges contractors and landscapers to take that extra time to make sure everything is secure.

And before you hitch that boat to your vehicle, Fischer says you need to secure objects in your vessel.

Cut 10 (12) “…or death.”

Fischer says you might not think a suitcase can do a lot of damage if falls from your car while you’re driving on the interstate, but it can…

Cut 11 (11) ” …on impact.”

He says taking the time to secure your load is the safe, legal, and considerate thing to do.

Today is the 80^th anniversary of D-Day. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Legislation awaiting the governor’s signature would lift the requirement every high school student has to take the A-C-T test. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (35)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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The Kenny Wayne Shepard band is performing at the Raising Canes River Center on July 13^th, and they are looking for a local band to open their show. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.” 

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It was 80 years ago today when more than 156,000 Allied ground troops stormed the beaches of Normandy, a turning point in WWII, what’s referred to as D-Day. Of the 2,500 Americans who were killed, 33 were from Louisiana. Colonel Jerome Butler with the Louisiana Department of Veterans Affairs says this anniversary is notable because…

Cut 4 (10) “…operation.”

Of the Louisianans killed in action 12 are buried in state, 17 in American cemeteries in France, one in England, and three were never found.

Buller says while D-Day was a successful operation, it’s also a somber day because of the 4,500 Allied forces who died…

Cut 5 (10) “…be remembered.” 

In the regular legislative session, Buller says a House Concurrent Resolution 127 was submitted paying honor to the 33 Louisianans who died on D-Day.

Cut 6 (06) “…their sacrifice.”

To learn more about Louisianas or other Americans who fought on D-Day you can visit dday.org/learn/necrology-project/

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Taking the A-C-T would no longer be a requirement for some high school students under legislation awaiting the governor’s signature. On the final day of the legislative session, state lawmakers gave approval to Bossier City Representative Dennis Bamburg’s bill that says if a student is seeking a career-path diploma they could take a job skills test or a military readiness test. Bamburg says it’s about giving parents options…

Cut 7 (07) “…daily basis.”

The vote for this bill in the House was close, 55 in favor, 46 opposed. New Orleans Representative Jason Hughes voted against it. He says there’s a purpose for the ACT and he believes requiring every student to take the ACT has improved the state’s rankings in public education…

Cut 8 (08) “…move backward.” 

Since 2013 Louisiana has required every high school student to take the ACT. Supporters of this legislation say Louisiana’s average ACT score has been dragged down, because there are students not taking the A-C-T seriously, if they are going to a four-year college. Bamburg made that point on the House floor…

Cut 9 (09)  “…the ACT.”

Louisiana’s ACT score has been trending downward. Last year the state average was 18, while the national average is 19.5.

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The Treasure Chest Casino in Kenner will open its doors today for its new land-based casino in Kenner. David Strow (rhymes with how) with Boyd Gaming Corporation says it will be quite a change from their riverboat casino and he’s betting visitors will be impressed.

Cut 10 (12) “…before.”

The new facility has a gambling hall that’s 47,000 square feet, twice the size of the previous casino, and 8,000 square of convention space.

Strow says in addition to gambling they’ll have four dining options, including a high-end steak house and a state-of-the-art sports bar next to a Fan Duel Sportsbook.

Cut 11 (11) “…expand the appeal.”

At the riverboat property, visitors had to park off-site and take a shuttle to the casino. Strow believes guests will appreciate the parking lot at the new land-based casino.

Cut 12 (12) “…before.” 

Strow says of all their properties the one in Kenner is among their most successful ones and believes that will continue to grow with the new facility.

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The Kenny Wayne Shepard band is performing at the Raising Canes River Center on July 13^th in Baton Rouge, and they want a band from Louisiana to open up for them. They plan to hold a Battle of the Bands competition at the Texas Club in Baton Rouge on June 21 and they are taking submissions now. Kenny Wayne Shepard says this is a great opportunity for an aspiring Louisiana band.

Cut 13 (10)  “…touring act.”

Shepard says just about any band that does a great show will fit the bill and they are not limiting the search to blues and rock bands.

Cut 14 (07)  “…our crowd.”

Opening for an international touring act is a huge opportunity for a local band to be able to use this platform and b grow their audience base, says Shepard.

Cut 15 (11)  “…illegally.”

The band’s original opener, Blues legend, Jimmie Vaugh had to step down due to a cancer diagnosis.

Eagle 98.1 is taking submissions through the 12^th.

Go to Eagle981.com and click on “Battle of the Louisiana Bands” for more info.

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Saints defensive end Isaiah Foskey did not make an impact in his rookie season last year after he was drafted in the second round out of Notre Dame. Foskey appeared in ten games last year and had nine tackles. The 23-year-old says he feels much more comfortable this year…

Cut 16 (16) “…helps a lot.” 

Wide receiver Chris Olave is entering his third season. He caught 87 passes for 1,123 yards and had five touchdowns last year. Olave averaged 13 yards a reception last year. He hopes to produce more big plays this year in new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak’s system…

Cut 17 (17) “…the system.”

Saints defensive end Carl Granderson had a career-high 8.5 sacks last season. Granderson believes the defensive line will be really good with the addition of Chase Young…

Cut 18 (18)  “…get after it.”

The founder and president of Acadian Ambulance Richard Zuschlag has passed away at 76. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (34)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Professional hockey is coming back to the Monroe Civic Center this October. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Sean Richardson.” 

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The founder and President of Acadian Ambulance Richard Zuschlag has passed away at 76 after a battle with cancer. The Pennsylvania native moved to Lafayette in 1970 and a year later started Acadian Ambulance with two ambulances. Zuschlag appeared on WRKF’s Talk Louisiana in 2022 and talked about growing Acadian Ambulance into one of the country’s largest privately held medical transportation companies

Cut 3 (13) “..successful” 

Acadian Ambulance is based in Lafayette and has 52-hundred employees, operating in four states. Zuschlag said he could not have grown this company without the help of Acadiana…

Cut 4 (14) “…working people.” 

Acadian Ambulance started out by providing private ambulance service to funeral homes in Lafayette. Zuschlag said it began to grow when they hired several Vietnam War veterans as medics to cover Lafayette Parish…

Cut 5 (14)  “… save lives.”

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Louisiana started sending a rotation of 50 Louisiana Army National Guardsmen to the Texas border last March to help secure the border against illegal crossings. The three-month deployment is coming to an end and Landry says he is in talks with Texas Governor Greg Abbott about keeping Louisiana soldiers at the border.

Cut 6  (11) “…around this time. ” 

Landry says it is important to have a presence of National Guard troops from Louisiana and they are helping to secure the border

Cut 7 (07) “…state of Texas.”  

Louisiana’s deployment due to wrap up this month has cost around $3 million.

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Secretary of State Nancy Landry says she’s extremely pleased with the 11 bills passed in the session to improve Louisiana’s election system. Even though the Bayou State is in the ranked in top ten for election integrity by the Heritage Foundation and number one in the south by the Electoral Integrity Project

Cut 8 (11)  “…(x2) number one.” 

Landry says even the Louisiana Legislative State Auditor gives the state’s election high marks.

Governor Jeff Landry is expected to sign all of the bills, including one that passed three times before, but former Governor John Bel Edwards vetoed them each time. She says the legislation allows them to further clean up the voter rolls when someone has been inactive for 10 years. It’s estimated that 160,000 people fall into that category.

Cut 9 (13) “…inactive voter list.” 

Inactive voters will still be able to vote and when they do they’ll return to active status unless they fail to vote in two consecutive federal elections, then they are removed and will have to register to vote again.

When asked if the 11 bills would make it more difficult to vote, Landry believes the changes won’t create any burdens for voters.

Cut 10 (12) “…our elections.”

Landry says one of the bills allows them to check for citizenship when individuals register to vote in Louisiana.

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Its official, professional hockey is back in Monroe, Louisiana. The managing partner and president, Parker Moskal announced the newest team in the Federal Prospects Hockey League.

Cut 11 (10) ” …Monroe Moccasin’s.”

Moccasin’s Owner Nick Perkins says he knows Louisiana is passionate about their sports teams.

Cut 12 (11) “…the first year.” 

It’s been over two decades since Monroe had a professional hockey team and some say history will repeat itself and the new Monroe Moccasin’s won’t last, but Perkins has a message for the doubters saying, “That will not happen.” And are in talks with the Governors office to bring an NHL team to New Orleans.

Cut 13 (09) “…pretty notable.” 

The Moccasins return to the Monroe Civic Center October 11^th

Several governors including Louisiana’s Jeff Landry spoke at a diesel refinery in Chalmette to criticize the Biden administration’s energy policy. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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When it comes to how education fared in the most recent legislative session, one advocacy group says it’s a mixed-bag. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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President Joe Biden is enacting new migrant restrictions at the southern border. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Colleen Crain.” 

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Governor Jeff Landry and several of other Republican governors spoke at a diesel refinery in Chalmette to hammer the Biden administration’s energy policy and called on the president “to pursue an all-of-the-above energy approach” that will promote homegrown energy that benefits all Americans.

Cut 4 (09) “…cost to Americans.”

Landry says the Biden administration’s enhanced energy regulations have cost taxpayers almost $1.4 trillion since he took office.

Cut 5 (10) “…domestic energy.” 

The U.S. has been producing more oil than any country in history, but Landry says that should be increased further to help with consumer costs.

Cut 6 (09) “…pockets of Americans.”

The request is for Biden to ease regulatory pressure on the fossil fuel industry, prioritizing technology and to end his moratorium on permits for liquid natural gas export facilities.

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Besides the Gator Scholarship Program, several education bills were passed in the session. Council for a Better Louisiana President Barry Erwin says interventions to improve literacy in Louisiana have led to improved reading scores and now there will also be a focus on math.

Cut 7 (12) “…numbers up.”

Higher Education also chalked up a win. More than 70 percent of state buildings are on college campuses, and they need an estimated $2 billion to fund deferred maintenance. Erwin says lawmakers dedicated $75 million to help with those projects.

Cut 8 (08) “…higher ed.” 

But Erwin points out that lawmakers sent a mixed message on education this session with another round of teacher pay stipends instead of raises and a $9 million cut to early childhood education.

Cut 9 (07)  “…a difference.”

Erwin says while lawmakers did address policy changes to improve education they failed to dedicate enough monies towards early childhood education.

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The Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo in Monroe celebrates its 100^th year birthday this June. City of Monroe spokesperson Emily Stogner…

Cut 10 (12) “…fresh new look.”

Part of the rebranding was reaching out to the community with surveys and getting an idea of what the zoo means to them.

Cut 11 (10) “…100 years.”

The newest addition is the Louisiana Purchase exhibit where visitors can feed animals and get a sense of what it was like during the time of the Louisiana Purchase.

Cut 12 (07) “…better than ever.” 

The zoo is home to over 300 animals representing 150 species of animals from around the world.

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President Joe Biden revealed plans Tuesday to immediately enact significant restrictions on migrants seeking asylum at the southern border. His plan becomes active when border encounters reach 2,500 per day, then any migrant without a reason to fear return to their country will be removed from the US within days or hours. Many Republicans including Senator Bill Cassidy question the president’s timing.

Cut 13 (10)  “… illegal immigration.”

Biden says “the border is not a political issue to be weaponized” and he would have preferred more lasting legislation, but Republicans left him no choice.

The president’s plan will only be active until migrant encounters drop below 1,500 per day for two weeks. Asylum seekers will also be held to a higher screening standard than previously used but Cassidy isn’t sure it’s enough.

Cut 14 (10)  “…under Biden.”

Biden says his plan will help gain control of the border and restore order to the process while Cassidy compared the number of border crossings of the previous two administrations with an eight-fold increase during the first three years of Biden’s term. Republican Senator John Kennedy blames the president’s policies.

Cut 15 (11)  “…illegally.”

In the final hours of the legislative session, lawmakers approve a bill that only allows Louisiana residents to make a public records request with the governor’s office. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (34)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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LSU baseball comes up short in its bid to repeat as national champions. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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A bill heading to the governor’s desk would prohibit out-of-state journalists from requesting public records from the governor’s office. Gonzales Senator Ed Price questioned River Ridge Senator Kirk Talbot who said  reporters outside of Louisiana can work with in-state media to make the request

Cut 3 (15) “..that information.” 

Talbot says other states also have a similar law and he carried this bill for the governor on the Senate floor…

Cut 4 (12) “…seen it.” 

During discussion on the Senate floor, it was pointed out that the governor’s office is receiving an additional one million dollars to hire more lawyers to work on public records requests. Talbot says the office is getting inundated with public records requests and many ask for an enormous amount of detail…

Cut 5 (13)  “… Louisiana citizens.”

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Governor Jeff Landry was in New Orleans today with Mayor LaToya Cantrell and Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser to talk about getting the state ready for Super Bowl LIX (59) on February 9, 2025 for a record tying 11th time with Miami, Florida.  Landry says New Orleans is ready.

Cut 6  (07) “…city of New Orleans. ” 

Landry says that one focus for this event will be improving infrastructure that will have benefits for New Orleans reaching years into the future.

Cut 7 (11) “…post Superbowl.”  

Some other projects include the relighting of the Crescent City Connection, cleaning and power washing of roads in the downtown area and Verizon, AT&T and Cox working together to bring 5G to downtown New Orleans.

Along with infrastructure, Landry wants to tackle public safety for the city and says when its game time the NFL can rest easy.

Cut 8 (06)  “…in the country.” 

Landry says this is a great opportunity to bring Louisianans together and not just highlight the city of New Orleans but the state of Louisiana.

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Severe weather looks to continue in Northwest Louisiana causing additional damage to SWEPCO’s energy delivery system, which resulted in additional outages bringing the total number of residents without power to over 13,000. SWEPCO spokesperson Michelle Marcotte…

Cut 9 (12) “…flooding.” 

Marcotte says they have been hit with severe storms since Friday and heavy rainfall has weakened trees.

Cut 10 (10) “…with our lines.”

Crews are trying to restore the power but more storms are in the forecast for northwest Louisiana.

Estimated restoration times have changed due to the latest weather with some areas expected to be restored today, weather permitting.

Cut 11 (12) ” …here in Louisiana.”

Residents are urged to stay away from downed wires and anything they may be touching. Call 911 to report any hazards.

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The 2024 legislative session yielded some big wins for social conservatives. Legislation requiring classrooms to post the Ten Commandments and reclassifying two abortion pills as dangerous controlled substances are among the major bills to pass. But political consultant Mary Patricia Wray says both measures will likely face court challenges

Cut 12 (02) “…litigated.” 

Wray says this was a successful session for Governor Landry, despite some of his bills being watered down or not passing.  Education Savings Accounts and constitutional convention measures are two examples. Wray gives the governor credit for taking on several big issues

Cut 13 (09) “…pretty notable.” 

One of Landy’s biggest political victories is the passage of a bill that allows him to appoint the chairs of more than 150 boards and commissions. And the governor can now appoint 11 of the 15 members of the state ethics board.

Wray says Landry did a lot of personal lobbying as he was seen in the Senate chambers on a couple of occasions

Cut  14 (12) “..already won.” 

With the 2024 regular legislative session in the books, Colleen Crain has a review from Council for a Better Louisiana President…

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell’s bill banning unauthorized cell phones on school grounds heads to Governor Jeff Landry’s desk to be signed after unanimous approval by the State Senate. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Sean Richardson.” 

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Judges in Louisiana will soon have the option to sentence those who commit sexual crimes against a child under the age of 13 to surgical castration in addition to prison time. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Governor Jeff Landry’s first regular legislative session ended Monday night. Council for a Better Louisiana President, Barry Erwin says there were several anticipated important issues that lawmakers addressed and others that popped up in the session…

Cut 4 (12) “…going anywhere.”

Erwin says it’s possible that a Constitutional Convention could still be held, for example, if Governor Landry called for what would be his third special session this year.

Among the biggest issues lawmakers passed, Erwin says was a package of bills to lower insurance rates.

Cut 5 (11) “…pretty significant.” 

Erwin says a big win for the governor was the passage of the Gator Scholarship Program. The Education Savings Account bill that passed wasn’t what was proposed initially. Erwin says the program will be smaller in scale and…

Cut 6 (11) “…accounts.”

The Gator Scholarship Program is set to begin for the 2025-26 school year.

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says the state will not renew a contract for a Louisiana float to appear in this year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Nungesser says they didn’t see a boost in tourism inquiries last year.

Cut 7 (10) “…come close.”

Instead, they will continue participating in the New Year’s Day Rose Parade in Pasadena, California, and they are looking for some helping hands.

Cut 8 (12) “…all volunteers.” 

Nungesser says that compared to Macy’s Parade the return on investment is night and day.

Cut 9 (05)  “…for this float.”

If you’re interested in volunteering, visit EXPLORELOUISIANA.COM for more information

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Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell’s bill that would ban cell phones from classrooms heads to Governor Jeff Landry’s desk to be signed. Mizell says there are options for schools to determine how phones will be stored but no matter what method used, positive results will be achieved.

Cut 10 (07) “…in their hand.”

One area of pushback was the possible cost that could have been incurred but Mizell says more solutions have been suggested that wouldn’t add any additional cost to schools.

Cut 11 (12) “…really cool system.”

Feedback from the Teacher Workforce Commission says the number one issue was the lack of attention in classrooms while competing with students using cell phones. Mizell says with this bill teachers should be getting some help.

Cut 12 (06) “…their phone.” 

If signed the bill would go into effect in the 2024-2025 school year.

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Judges in Louisiana will have the option to sentence those who commit sex crimes against children to surgical castration, in addition to prison time. Bill Baton Rouge Senator Regina Barrow told Denham Spring Senator Valerie Hodges that far too often perpetrators are repeat offenders.

Cut 13 (10)  “…doing it again.”

The surgical castration option would apply if the victim is under the age of 13. Judges already have the discretion to order chemical castration, which is less invasive, as a sentencing option for aggravated sex crimes.

The bill, which a Democrat authored, received overwhelming support from GOP lawmakers. Barrow says such crimes against children are inexcusable.

Cut 14 (12)  “…a baby.”

When someone violates a child, Barrow says it’s something that child must deal with for the rest of their life and she believes surgical castration should be an option, because…

Cut 15 (03)  “…very severe.”

The bill would take effect August 1^st.

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LSU’s season ended last night with a crushing four-to-three loss in ten innings to North Carolina in the Chapel Hill Regional. The Tar Heels scored the tying run in the ninth inning off LSU ace pitcher Gage Jump and UNC took the lead in the tenth inning when freshman right fielder Jake Brown dropped a fly ball to let the go-ahead run get on second base. Coach Jay Johnson didn’t want to see the season end…

Cut 16 (11) “…Super Regional at home.” 

LSU took a 3-2 lead in the third inning when Jared Jones connected on his 28th home run. Tigers relief pitcher Will Hellmers had the best performance of his LSU career as he threw 5.2 innings of scoreless baseball. It was Hellmers last game in an LSU uniform

Cut 17 (17) “…absolutely.”

Hellmers appreciated the opportunity he was given…

Cut 18 (18)  “…I was trying to do.”