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.”

Entergy Louisiana customers will see a rate increase in early 2025 but fees will go down. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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 A settlement involving the National Realtor’s association is bringing changes to the way Realtors help homebuyers purchase a home. Colleen Crain has more.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Colleen Crain.” 

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DOTD has cleared the last financial hurdle in building a new I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Mel Bridges.” 

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Entergy Louisiana customers will see a rate increase in early 2025 but will also benefit from lower fees and credits as a result of two settlements approved by the Louisiana Public Service Commission. The settlements end long-running litigation with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission regarding Grand Gulf Nuclear Station in Mississippi. PSC Davante Lewis says the rate hikes could have been worse…

Cut 4 (13) “…eight to ten dollars.”

Many Entergy customers that use around one-thousand kWh per month will see an initial bill increase of around four-dollars.

Under the agreements, Lewis says Entergy will eliminate connection and reconnection fees, expand eligibility for low-income senior bill discounts, and reduce late fees…

Cut 5 (06) “…one and a half percent.”

The Public Service Commission’s approval of the settlements is a significant move to ensure that utility costs remain fair and transparent.

Cut 6 (13) “…investments in infrastructure.”

Lewis emphasized the commission’s decision reflects ongoing efforts to hold utility companies accountable for their pricing and to protect consumers, particularly in the wake of rising costs in other areas.

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Beginning August 17^th, because of a settlement involving the National Realtor’s association, Realtors across the country are facing changes in the way they help homebuyers purchase a home. Greater Baton Rouge Association of Realtors’ President-Elect, Larry Miller on how the new rules will impact the way homebuyers work with their agents in Louisiana…

Cut 7 (12) “…real estate services.”

Miller explains Buyers have always been the source of funding the home purchase including the compensation of professionals with the seller’s authorizing disbursement of monies to brokers at closing. Now, sellers will no longer offer compensation in advance as a marketing incentive, instead…

Cut 8 (10) “…broker directly.”

Miller says it’s important to understand that Broker compensation has always been negotiable and is not set by any laws, associations, or Multiple Listing Services. Compensation is between the client and broker. Miller says, to be clear is to be kind and you should know what you’re paying for…

Cut 9 (11)  “…will be.”

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The Louisiana Lottery Corporation just ended its’ second-best fiscal year ever, with around 643 million dollars in revenue. Spokesperson Dustin Annison says the Lottery transferred almost 205 million dollars to the state treasury to use for K-12 public education this year…

Cut 10 (12) “…education system.”

Since the Lottery began in 1991, they’ve been mandated to transfer 15 percent of their earnings each year to the state treasury to use for K-12 public education. Annison says they’ve transferred around 5 billion dollars since they started, or around 35 percent of total revenue.

Cut 11 (10) “…education.”

The top seller for the Lottery continues to be scratch-offs, amassing around 312 million dollars last year, which is around half of the Lottery’s total sales for 2024. Annison says the Lottery tries to keep scratch-offs fresh by adding more, higher and unique prizes such as…

Cut 12 (10) “…our games.”

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DOTD has made a major step forward in building a new I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge. Project Manager Paul Vaught says they’ve officially reached a financial close, as the developer has sold the bonds needed to complete financing. He says the developer, Calcasieu Bridge Partners, will start final designs immediately…

Cut 13 (09)  “…to complete.”

The current I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge is over 70 years old and building a new bridge has been discussed for years. Vaught says the House Transportation committee voted against a financing plan last October. However, Vaught says Governor Landry’s administration got the project back on track…

Cut 14 (10)  “…that were made.”

State and federal funding cover 1.2 billion dollars of the 2.3 billion total cost, and the rest will come from tolls collected at the bridge. Once the bridge is open, it will cost those outside the five-parish area $2.50 with a toll tag and $3.75 without. Vaught says the state will retain around 15 percent of the tolls’ net profit…

Cut 15 (11)  “…five-parish area.”

Preliminary construction work can begin later this year and the goal is to have a new bridge constructed in 2031.

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Saints rookie offensive tackle Taliese Fuaga (Tah-lee-ess-say Foo-ah-gah) left practice Thursday with a back injury. After practice, Coach Dennis Allen said he has yet to receive word about the severity of the injury….

Cut 16 (21) “…back tightness.” 

The Saints next preseason game is Sunday night against the 49ers in San Francisco. It’s another chance for second-year pro Jake Haener to show he should be the primary back-up to Derek Carr. Haener on how he’s improved from last year…

Cut 17 (17) “..you’re accurate.”

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Jardin Gilbert and Jordan Allen have been the starting safeties throughout preseason camp for the LSU Tigers. Major Burns has played the Star position, a hybrid linebacker-safety position. Coach Brian Kelly says the on field communication between the group has been good, but the tackling needs to improve…

Cut 18 (18)  “…evaluate that.”

Josh Williams looks to be the starter at running back, Kaleb Jackson is the primary back-up. Fifth year running back John Emery will also get opportunities after making a decision to return for his final season at LSU. Kelly is glad Emery is still around…

Cut 19 (22) “…he’s back.”

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Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers founder Todd Graves donated $100,000 to fund the creation of a 3D-printed artificial reef off the coast near Grand Isle. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (29) …I’m Sean Richardson.”

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A sad story out of Jennings: a 10-month-old baby girl has died after being left in a hot car on Tuesday. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Mel Bridges.” 

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26-year-old Trystan McMillon, from Hammond, was arrested on charges of second-degree murder after allegedly selling fentanyl that led to a fatal overdose. Hammond Police Chief Edwin Bergeron reported that McMillon sold the potent synthetic opioid to 27-year-old Nicholas Platt who later died from an overdose.

Cut 3 (11) “…everything we can to stop that”

The Fentanyl Overdose Response (FOR) Team has seized 8 pounds of fentanyl since January as the deadly drug has contributed to a surge in overdose deaths in Louisiana. Bergeron stresses that those who sell drugs that result in death can face severe charges, including murder.

Cut 4 (05) “…members of our community.”

Platt’s father, Jay Platt says he hopes this will lead to more fentanyl-related arrests and spare other families from losing a child or other loved ones.

Cut 5 (10)  “…Thank You .”

McMillon was booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail and will soon be presented to a Tangipahoa Parish grand jury. Bergeron believes this type of case has never been prosecuted in the 21^st Judicial District.

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Todd Graves, the founder of Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers, donated $100,000 to fund the creation of a 3D-printed artificial reef off the coast of Grand Isle. The reef will replace an old, decommissioned oil platform, contributing to marine conservation efforts in the Gulf of Mexico.

Cut 6 (08) “…for the community.”

The donation supports the efforts of the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) of Louisiana, which is collaborating with researchers and environmentalists to design and deploy the artificial reef. LDWF Secretary Madison Sheahan says this is a huge opportunity to show what a public-private partnership can do in Louisiana…

Cut 7 (08) “…anglers across the state.”

Graves expressed his commitment to preserving Louisiana’s natural resources with plans to build four more artificial reefs in the Gulf.

Cut 8 (07)  “…great fishing again.”

The artificial reef project is seen as a significant step in restoring and protecting the Gulf’s delicate ecosystem, providing a sustainable solution that benefits both the environment and the local economy.

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A 10-month-old baby girl has died after being left in a hot car Tuesday in Jennings. Jennings Police Chief Danny Semmes (Simms) says the girl’s mother was unexpectedly called into work at a local restaurant and accidentally left the child in the car during her hour-and-a-half long shift.

Cut 9 (12) “…emergency room.”

This is the second child to pass after being left in a hot car in the state this year. Semmes says this investigation is ongoing, but the mother maintains she left her child in the hot car by accident and took the baby to the hospital as soon as she realized.

Cut 10 (11) “…we all are.”

Temperatures were in the mid-90s across Acadiana on Tuesday, with head indexes over 105 degrees. With temperatures that high, Semmes says it’s a miracle hospital workers were able to establish a pulse on the baby, though she ended up passing away Wednesday night.

Cut 11 (11) ” …one hundred and twenty.”

According to Kids and Car Safety, the ten-month old from Jennings is the 23rd child who has died this year after being left in a hot car. It’s the second one in Louisiana. An infant died in East Baton Rouge Parish last month after the parent “forgot” the child was in the car and was at work.

Kids and Car Safety say since 1995 at least 46 children have died in hot cars in Louisiana, making Louisiana the sixth worst state in the country when it comes to child hot car deaths.

Joe Petraro is taking online classes at LSU as a sports leadership major. He’s also an 11-year-old with Tourette’s. Mel Bridges has the story.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Mel Bridges.”

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Louisiana Treasurer Dr. John Fleming has called for the elimination of the state’s personal income tax, arguing that it is time for Louisiana to adopt a more competitive tax structure. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.” 

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Some of Louisiana’s educators will be evaluated under a new system this school year: Louisiana’s Educator Advancement and Development System, or LEADS. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Mel Bridges.” 

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11-year-old Joe Petraro is taking summer classes at LSU as a sports leadership major. Joe, who has Tourette’s, graduated high school this year after speeding through grade school in two and a half years. He says his Tourette’s and intelligence used to be at odds, but now he’s using them to his advantage.

Cut 4 (11) “…and it helps.”

Joe’s special education teacher noticed he was a genius when he was in third grade. His parents enrolled him in private schools and special programs to meet his intellectual needs, and he graduated grade school in just two and a half years. Joe says college classes, which he’s taking online, are a bit different than high school…

Cut 5 (10) “…but it was awesome.”

Joe wants to be a sports broadcaster when he graduates, and he’s friends with former LSU basketball player Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf, who also has Tourette’s. Joe says he chose LSU because he believes they have the best college teams. As to why he chose to be a sports management major…

Cut 6 (11) “…and inclusion.”

Joe is taking online classes from his home in Long Island, where he will spend his time between classes with his Boy Scout troop.

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Louisiana Treasurer John Fleming is calling on the Louisiana Legislature to approve legislation next year that would eliminate of the state’s personal income tax. Fleming believes this major tax reform would attract more businesses and residents to the state, driving economic growth and making Louisiana more competitive with neighboring states that don’t have personal income taxes.

Cut 7 (10) “…Texas or Tennessee.”

Fleming’s proposal comes as part of a discussion on tax reform within the state, as lawmakers and officials seek ways to revitalize Louisiana’s economy and improve its business climate.

Cut 8 (09) “…business-friendly state.”

Invest in Louisiana says the phasing out the state’s corporate and personal income tax is not a good idea. These taxes provide the state with five-billion dollars to pay for such services as higher education, public safety, health care and other programs. But Fleming says the state spends too much on things that do not help the state’s economy…

Cut 9 (12)  “…and voters.”

Lawmakers will hold a fiscal regular session next year, so legislators can vote on proposed tax changes.

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The Rapides Area Drug Enforcement have arrested a Pineville man for allegedly selling THC products to kids. Tommy Carnline with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office says they first heard of the Pineville Smoke Shop, run by 40-year-old Ahmed Gaber (gah-bear) of Pineville, from several complaints…

Cut 10 (12) “…THC-infused products.”

In addition to the 2.5 pounds of THC-infused products, Carnline says officers also turned up around 7 thousand dollars allegedly from sales, though officers don’t know how many of those sales were made to children specifically. He says attitudes towards marijuana have become very lax, with some even believing it’s legal in Louisiana…

Cut 11 (10) “…juveniles.”

Gaber was booked in the Rapides Parish Detention Center for distribution of a stage-one classified drug above 2.5 pounds, and released the same day on a ten thousand dollar bond. Carnline says parents shouldn’t let their kids use vapes, and he says vapes in schools are a big problem…

Cut 12 (12) “…this type of stuff.”

The investigation is still ongoing, as officers have received more complaints about other stores selling THC and vape products to juveniles.

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This school year, some of Louisiana’s educators will be evaluated under a new system. Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jenna Chiasson (sha-son) says the old system lacked a comprehensive rubric or ongoing support, so they developed Louisiana’s Educator Advancement and Development System, or LEADS…

Cut 13 (09)  “…one-time event.”

Under LEADS, newer, less experienced teachers are observed less than established teachers. In fact, teachers with at least three years of experience who score highly on their first observation can opt out of remaining observations that school year.

Cut 14 (09)  “…rewarded.”

Chiasson says LEADS is in line with the recently unveiled Let Teachers Teach initiative, which focuses on making classrooms less distracting for students and teachers, by putting evaluations in the hands of educators. She says LEADS not only reforms the outdated system with input from educators…

Cut 15 (08)  “…what could be improved.”

Chiasson says struggling teachers will receive immediate instructional support.

LEADS will be fully implemented for the 2025-26 school year, this year will be treated as a learning year.

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LSU’s defense appears to be making strides during this preseason camp. Coach Brian Kelly likes the camaraderie and energy level he’s seeing from the group, but the defense is still a work in progress when it comes to getting lined up correctly, communicating effectively and executing the fundamentals

Cut 16 (16) “…improvement in.” 

Sophomore cornerback Ashton Stamps had a couple more pass break ups during yesterday’s practice. Kelly says the former Rummel Raider leads the team in PBUs during this camp and he’s certainly taken a step forward in his development…

Cut 17 (20) “…every day.”

One of the more tighter position battles is at punter. Redshirt junior Peyton Todd is competing with Louisiana Tech transfer Blake Ochsendorf. Kelly says both guys lack consistency….

Cut 18 (20)  “…play em both.”

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The Saints have a couple more practices in Irvine, California, before they head to San Francisco to play the 49ers in a preseason game on Sunday night. So how is offensive tackle Taliese Fuaga (Tah-lee-ess-say Foo-ah-gah) doing as he continues to get reps with the starters at left tackle. Coach Dennis Allen gave his assessment

Cut 19 (19) “…for him.”

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Sixteen days left before the Ragin Cajuns kick off the season against Grambling on August 31st and Coach Michael Desormeaux has yet to settle on a starting quarterback between Chandler Fields and Ben Woolridge. Desormeaux says who ever takes care of the ball better in practice will start…

Cut 20 (20) “…believe in.”

The Cajuns will hold a scrimmage on Saturday.