Louisiana’s Revenue Secretary Richard Nelson wants the Legislature to hold another special session next month to address the “fiscal cliff” the state is facing. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

_______________________________________________

The U-S House Oversight Committee will begin its investigation today into the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. Jeanne Burns has more.

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Jeanne Burns.” 

____________________________________________

President Joe Biden has made the decision not to seek re-election. Jeff Palermo reports one local political analyst believes Kamala Harris will be the Democratic presidential nominee…

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

______________________________________________

State lawmakers have had a busy year but Louisiana Revenue Secretary Richard Nelson hopes the Legislature will hold another special session next month. He wants to make some fundamental reforms to address a “fiscal cliff” as a result of a 600-million dollar loss in revenue when a temporary state sales tax expires next July.

Cut 4 (10) “…gonna be.”

Nelson wants to lower the state income tax while eliminating some exemptions to the state’s sales tax code. The top income tax rate is currently four and a quarter percent and he wants to bring it down to three percent to make Louisiana more competitive with other states.

Cut 5 (12) “…toward this.”

Nelson says the state has had recurring budget surpluses year after year and some of that money could be used to reduce the income tax.

Louisiana has the highest sales tax rate in the country according to Nelson and he blames the complicated tax code.

Cut 6 (11) “…really uncompetitive.”

Nelson says addressing the problems with the tax code is something the state could do to keep people from leaving and attract new people and businesses to Louisiana.

_________________________________________________________

The U-S House Oversight Committee will hold a hearing today into the assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump. New Iberia Senator Blake Miguez, who is also a competitive marksman, says there are many unanswered questions that the Secret Service must answer. From the weapon type used to the competence level of the protective detail assigned to Trump and…

Cut 7 (09) “…more protected.”

The Secret Service chief said the agency provided additional security enhancements for Trump’s security detail and implemented changes after the shooting to ensure continued protection for the rest of the campaign. Miguez says there were certainly more Secret Service agents around the former president at the Republican National Convention

Cut 8 (09) “…in Pennsylvania.”

Louisiana Congressman Higgins is on this committee and promises a thorough investigation. Miguez says the nation is owed answers…

Cut 9 (09)  “…those questions.”

The U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle has agreed to testify at a public hearing.

________________________________________

President Joe Biden announced on Sunday he will not seek a second term and has endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democrats’ nominee for President. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says the major shakeup in the President’s race should benefit Democrats…

Cut 10 (14) “…swing voters.”

Several Democratic governors have also been reported as potential replacements for Biden on top of the Democratic presidential ticket, including California’s Gavin Newsome, Illinois’ J.B. Prtizker, Michigan’s Gretchen Whitmer, Colorado’s Jared Polis and Pennsyvlania’s Josh Shapiro. But Hogan doesn’t see the delegates at the Democratic National Convention going against Biden’s wishes…

Cut 11 (11) “…the nomination.”

House Speaker Mike Johnson of Benton says the Democratic Party has invalidated the votes of millions of Americans by forcing their nominee off the ballot for President. Johnson told ABC News yesterday that switching to a new candidate at this stage could violate state-level election laws. Hogan doubts that legal strategy will work because the primary elections are not the final say on who the nominee is…

Cut 12 (10) “…formalized.”

_______________________________________________________________________

A federal judge says the Ten Commandments should not be displayed in any public classroom until at least November 15th pending a ruling on whether the new law is unconstitutional. Loyola Law Professor Dane Ciolino believes in the end the plaintiffs will prevail…

Cut 13 (10)  “…violated the First Amendment.”

U-S District Court Judge John deGravelles (Duh-gravel) is expected to rule on whether displaying biblical text in every public school classroom violates the U-S Constitution before mid-November. Ciolino says he’s not surprised by deGravelles’ ruling.

Cut 14 (12)  “…can be held”

Attorney General spokesperson Lester Duhe says the law is not “paused,” “blocked,” or “halted.” And Louisiana schools remain subject to the law and its January 2025 compliance deadline. Ciolino says…

Cut 15 (04)  “…can be held.”

Judge deGravelles set a hearing date for September 30^th to give himself time to issue a ruling by mid-November.

___________________________________________________________________

LSU football has been picked to finish fifth in the 16-team Southeastern Conference based on a poll of media members who attended media days. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne says that sounds about right…

Cut 16 (14) “..preseason forecast.” 

LSU won ten games last year with a Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback. Not only did Daniels throw for 38 hundred yards, but he also rushed for eleven hundred yards. Coach Brian Kelly on how the Tigers plan to replace those rushing yards…

Cut 17 (15) “…in the country.”

Offensive tackle Will Campbell and linebacker Harold Perkins were named first-team selections. Horne believes one other player is deserving of preseason first-team honors…

Cut 18 (18)  “..first team.”

A former art teacher at Golden Meadow Middle School in Lafourche Parish receives a 40-year prison sentence for sexually abusing a student. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) …I’m Jeff Palermo.”

______________________________________

35-year-old Quentin Anderson is the youngest candidate running for the 6^th Congressional District. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

_____________________________________

A former art teacher at Golden Meadow Middle School in Lafourche Parish has been sentenced to 40-years in prison for sexually abusing one of his  former students in 2009. Prosecutor Jason Chatagnier (shot-en-ya_ says during the trial they presented evidence on how Ralph Cheramie (cher-a-me) Junior would groom his victims…

Cut 3 (08) “…in the classroom.”

Cheramie was convicted on sexual battery, molestation and indecent behavior charges. Chatagnier says the victim initially reported the incident to school administrators, but an internal investigation yielded little action. He says the victim now as an adult came forward again, reporting the incident to law enforcement, which led to a conviction…

Cut 4 (10) “…and her partner.”

Chatagnier says Cheramie’s sentences are to be served concurrently…

Cut 5 (11)  “…ever again.”

_________________________________________________________

Political newcomer, Quentin Anderson from Baton Rouge has entered the race to run for the 6^th Congressional District and says he wants to bring integrity and honor back to public service.  As the son and grandson of preachers and military veterans, Anderson says he was taught the value of public service.

Cut 6 (12) “…my community.”

He also runs a non-profit professional called the Justice Alliance and has done consulting for Together Baton Rouge and Together Louisiana. Anderson says his background is figuring out ways to talk about progressive solutions with individuals who aren’t progressive.

The 35-year-old says he wants to focus on crime, particularly youth violent crime. Anderson says he wants to invest in youth jobs programs and ways to keep them busy.

Cut 7 (06) “…as well.”

He says addressing crime is much deeper than policing, it’s about providing opportunity instead of a life of corruption.

And Anderson says he wants to address infrastructure and revitalization.

Cut 8 (12)  “…steps backward.”

The small business owner, who received his undergraduate at Louisiana Tech and a law degree from LSU has qualified as a Democrat, running against state Senator Cleo Fields and former legislator Elbert Guillory.

__________________________________________________________

There’s a good chances for more scattered thunderstorms through the weekend as this wet weather pattern plans to stick around into next week. National Weather Service Meteorologist Marti Calhoun…

Cut 9 (10) “…few days.”

Calhoun says an upper level trough will remain in place for several days, which will bring the southern half of the state daily showers and thunderstorms…

Cut 10 (10) “…rain weather.”

At the moment there are no flash flood warnings or watches posted. Calhoun says several weeks of relatively dry weather leading up this rainfall allows the ground and rivers to soak up a lot of moisture…

Cut 11 (07) ” …flash flooding”

____________________________________________________________________

A federal grand jury has indicted New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s former bodyguard, Jeffrey Vappie, on seven counts of wire fraud and one count of false statement. The U-S Attorney’s office says Vappie lied to cover up a romantic relationship with Cantrell and political analyst Clancy Dubos says the indictment implicates the major who is described as “public official one”….

Cut 12 (12) “…their phones.”

The indictment says there were meals and alcohol shared between the two during at least 14 domestic and international travels from 2021 to March of this year. He says those trips cost taxpayers more than 47-thousand dollars.

So why is Cantrell not facing an indictment? Dubos says federal prosecutors take their time before indicting a public official

Cut  13 (14) “…politician.” 

Dubos says a potential Cantrell indictment could also be a much broader investigation and it will take more time…

Cut  14 (09) “…Vappie case.”

Vappie retired from the New Orleans Police Department earlier this year.

Congresswoman Julia Letlow is running for a third term to represent the 5^th District that now stretches as far south to the Baton Rouge area to North Louisiana.

Cut 1 (30) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”

______________________________________

The LSU football program has received a commitment from the nation’s number one cornerback. Jeff Palermo has the details…

Cut 2 (26)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

_____________________________________

Congresswoman Julia Letlow officially qualified to run for re-election this morning. The Republican’s 5^th Congressional District was altered when the lines for District 6 were redrawn. Letlow says she’s looking forward to meeting and listening to the new individuals she could potentially represent in her third term.

Cut 3 (10) “…for results.”

In addition to North Louisiana the 5th District also stretches to the Baton Rouge area.

Even though Congressman Garett Graves has chosen not to seek re-election, Letlow says he’s been a gracious friend and now that portions of District 5 will include portions of the one he currently represents, she says he’s told her he will continue to act as a mentor.

Cut 4 (08) “…with him.”

Among her proudest accomplishments in her last term, Letlow says is sponsoring the Parents Bill of Rights. While it cleared the House, the bill did not make it through the Senate this Congress, but she’s hopeful it will in the next one.

Earlier this week Letlow was in Milwaukee at the Republican National Convention. The Monroe native acknowledges that since the assassination attempt on former President Trump’s life Saturday, there seems to be a concerted effort to promote unity and polite dialogue among the political parties.

Cut 5 (10)  “…moving forward”

Letlow is the first female Republican in Louisiana to be elected to Congress.

_________________________________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Transportation (DOTD) will hold a public meeting today, to discuss the a proposed I-20 Widening/Overlay Project in West Monroe. DOTD spokesperson Erin Buchanan…

Cut 6 (05) “…opinions about it.”

The project aims to add an additional travel lane in both directions from west of Well Road to west of the LA 34 interchange, incorporating median barriers and shoulders. Buchanan says additionally, a noise barrier will be installed near the Shadow Creek Apartments and Blanchard Street.

Cut 7 (10) “…questions about”

The open house meeting, scheduled from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the West Monroe Convention Center, will provide information about the project and gather public feedback. DOTD Representatives and the consulting team will be available to address questions and discuss the project’s impact. Buchanan says a date on when construction will begin has not been set..

Cut 8 (09)  “…Federal Highway Administration.”

Oral and written comments are welcomed during the meeting

__________________________________________________________

GOP presidential candidate Donald Trump will deliver his first public speech tonight since Saturday’s attempted assassination. He’ll close out an emotional Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says he’s eager to hear what the former former president has to say…

Cut 9 (11) “…right now.”

Graves says a single gunman nearly ending Trump’s life changed the entire tenor of the Republican National Convention…

Cut 10 (12) “…a 20-year-old.”

Graves says if Saturday’s assassination attempt did not happen, you would see Trump going after President Joe Biden during his keynote speech tonight, but now the former president will deliver a different message…

Cut 11 (12) ” …would have seen”

____________________________________________________________________

A 15-year-old accidentally shot at a home in St. Tammany Parish has died. St. Tammany Parish sheriff’s Office Lt Suzanne Carboni says the teenager was sitting in the living room of the home in the Goodbee area

Cut 12 (12) “…accidentally fired.”

Carboni says the shooting took place on Tuesday and she died last night from a single gunshot wound. She says the gun was fired by a relative who was handling a firearm in another room…

Cut  13 (12) “…passed away.” 

The incident is under investigation and no other information is available.

_________________________________________________________________

In Hammond a 3-year-old toddler died from an accidental gunshot wound to the face. Deputies say the incident took place at a residence where the child found an unsecured firearm. The toddler accidentally discharged the weapon, resulting in a fatal injury. Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Gerald Sticker

Cut  14 (07) “…pray for them.”

Sticker says firearms should be shored in a location that is not easily accessible to children and they should also be put in lock boxes and or gun safes. He says that was not the case in this situation…

Cut 15 (13) “…pulled it out.”

A family member came to the child’s aid immediately, but efforts to keep the child alive were unsuccessful.

Qualifying begins today for the November Congressional races. Sean Richardson reports the newly drawn sixth district is an open seat.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

_______________________________________________

U.S. Speaker Mike Johnson promises accountability for the perceived security lapses that led to the assassination attempt of former President Trump Saturday.

Cut 2 (25)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

____________________________________________

Underage gambling charges against former LSU receiver Kayshon Boutte have been dropped. The East Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney’s office says he’s completed his gambling awareness program and agreed to a self-ban. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (28) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

______________________________________________

Suspended LSU running back Trey Holly was scheduled to appear in court today related to a Union Parish shooting that happened in February. Because more evidence is expected to be provided to attorneys working on the case. Holly’s lawyer Mike Small says he along with the prosecution filed a joint motion for a September 18^th continuance. Small says he remains convinced of Holly’s innocence.

Cut 4 (13) “…that possible.”

LSU football coach Brian Kelly has expressed confidence Holly’s legal troubles could be resolved by the start of preseason camp, but unless the felony charge gets dropped that might not be the case. Small says he and his client are not discouraged by the mid-September continuance.

Cut 5 (08) “…disposed of.”

Holly has pleaded not guilty to a charge of illegal use of a weapon or dangerous instrumentality. Small says as of now the charges are still pending.

Cut 6 (08) “…that stage.”

Holly was indefinitely suspended from the Tigers after he was arrested in connection with a shooting on February 9th in Union Parish that injured two people. A grand jury dropped an attempted second-degree murder charge against Holly in April.

_________________________________________________________

The three-day qualifying period begins today for the November 5^th presidential election. There is an open congressional seat and Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields looks like the front-runner to win the newly drawn sixth district that gives a minority a favorable chance to win. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat…

Cut 7 (10) “…overwhelming favorite.”

Fields’ two main opponents appear to be former state lawmaker Elbert Guillory of Opelousas who is a Republican, and political newcomer and Democrat Quintin Anderson of Baton Rouge. Pinsonat says all three candidates are black.

Cut 8 (10) “…win elections.”

There’s also an open seat on the five-person Public Service Commission.  Three Republicans have expressed interest in replacing the outgoing Craig Greene, Lafayette Senator Jean-Paul Coussan and two former lawmakers in the Baton Rouge area Barry Ivey and Scott McKnight.

Cut 9 (08)  “…political well-known.”

There have been no announced Democrats for the open 2nd District PSC seat.

Candidates for federal offices and the PSC can register from 8 am to 4:30 pm starting today until Friday at the State Archives building in Baton Rouge.

________________________________________

Within hours after the assassination attempt on former President Trump’s life Saturday, U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson announced that there would be a Congressional investigation into the matter.

Cut 10 (12) “…that investigation.”

Johnson says the American people deserve and demand answers on how 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks was able to fire an AR-style rifle within 150 yards of Trump.

Cut 11 (07) “…coming days.”

The Benton Republican says it appears there were serious security gaps, but he doesn’t want to pre-judge the Secret Service before an investigation is completed. Johnson promised accountability for the incident.

Cut 12 (13) “…agree with.”

Johnson addressed delegates Tuesday night at the Republican National Convention and told Louisiana Radio Network he changed the theme of his speech to “Make American Safe Again,” in the wake of Saturday’s tragic events in Butler, Pennsylvania.

_______________________________________________________________________

Underage gambling and fraud charges against former LSU receiver Kayshon Boutte have been dropped. He was arrested in January for allegedly creating a fictitious name to place bets on sporting events when he was under 21. The East Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney’s office says Boutte completed a gambling awareness program and executed a self-ban. Legal Analyst Tim Meche says it’s a classic case of prosecutorial discretion because no one was harmed…

Cut 13 (12)  “…the matter.”

Meche believes the investigation of Boutte’s case will be a lesson learned for LSU and the NCAA, as well as how they need to monitor college athletes going forward regarding sports wagering.

Cut 14 (09)  “…said and done.”

In a press release from the EBR DA’s office announcing the charges were dropped it says Boutte did not bet against himself or his team. Meche says that’s interesting to note…

Cut 15 (10)  “…they’re making it.”

The legal gambling age in Louisiana is 21.

___________________________________________________________________

How much of a step back will LSU’s offense take with the Tigers having to replace last season’s offensive coordinator, a Heisman Trophy winning quarterback, and two first round picks at wide receiver. Starting tight end Mason Taylor is back and he’s not expecting  a drop off with Garrett Nussmeier at quarterback…

Cut 16 (18) “…this year.” 

With LSU’s top two receivers from last year now in the NFL, Taylor recognizes the opportunity for the tight ends to get more involved…

Cut 17 (18) “…this offense.”

LSU linebacker Harold Perkins will move back to inside linebacker this season. Perkins says he’s good with the move…

Cut 18 (14)  “…a play.”

____________________________________________________________

Grambling State quarterback Myles Crawley has been named the SWAC preseason player of the year. Crawley threw for 23-hundred yards and 16 touchdowns last season. Crawley says the preseason honor will drive him to be better…

Cut 19 (07) “…my team.” 

Grambling is picked to finish third in the SWAC Western Division, while Southern is picked to finish fourth. First-year coach Terrence Graves on what we can expect from the Jaguars this season…

Cut 20 (07) “…physical.”

In the wake of an assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump, Republican delegates are gathering at the Republican National Convention this week to formally nominate him for president. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 1 (29) …I’m Mel Bridges.”

______________________________________

Tony Hemker was among those in attendance at the rally when an assassination attempt was made on former President Trump’s life. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (35)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

_____________________________________

After an unsuccessful assassination attempt against former president Donald Trump on Saturday, Republican delegates are gathering at the Republican National Convention this week to formally nominate him for president. Representative Michael Bayham of Chalmette says security at the RNC is tight.

Cut 3 (07) “…other people.”

Several Republicans have rallied behind Trump since the assassination attempt, such as Nikki Haley, who is expected to speak at the convention. Bayham says the assassination attempt has caused a lot of Republicans to reevaluate their priorities.

Cut 4 (10) “…civil society we have.”

One of the biggest questions left for the Trump campaign is who will serve as Trump’s running mate. Bayham speculates that the assassination attempt may have changed Trump’s choice for vice president. He says whereas before, Trump might have chosen the most likely candidate to help him win the election…

Cut 5 (10)  “…any given time.”

Trump was not seriously hurt in the assassination attempt, but two people were and one person was killed. The shooter was killed by the Secret Service. A motive has not yet been determined.

_________________________________________________________

During the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump Saturday, 50-year-old Tony Hemker of Virginia was in the crowd. He went with his wife’s uncle, who had removed his hearing aids because they were near an overhead speaker, about 45 yards from the stage. When he heard the shots, Hemker turned to the right and saw a bullet go through a speaker and fall to the ground.

Cut 6 (12) “…(x3) get down.”

Hemker said it wasn’t until after the Secret Service yelled clear that he got back and up and saw Trump raise his fist into the air.

Cut 7 (14) “…else happens.”

While Hemker said it won’t deter him from ever attending a Trump rally again, the experience has changed him.

Cut 8 (13)  “…never know.”

As the crowd walked back to their cars, Hemker said there wasn’t much noise because they were all still in shock over what happened.

__________________________________________________________

LSU football coach Brian Kelly spoke at SEC Media Days in Dallas this morning. The Tigers will look to replace quarterback and leading rusher Jayden Daniels as well as top two receivers Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr. Senior Kyren Lacy is expected to lead the Tigers receiving corps but Kelly says he expects a group effort…

Cut 9 (15) “…is the depth.”

Redshirt Junior Garrett Nussmeier will get his chance to lead the offense this season after the past three years as a backup. The 22-year-old gunslinger provides a different skillset to Heisman-winner Jayden Daniels who led the Tigers with over 1,000 yards on the ground last season, but Kelly says they share the same essential traits above the shoulders…

Cut 10 (14) “…that as well.”

Kelly emphasized the importance of a complete team after the Tigers’ top-ranked offense was held back by an underperforming defense last year. LSU brought in new coordinator Blake Baker, d-line coach Bo Davis, and secondary coach Corey Raymond to revitalize the storied LSU defense. Linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. will be central to the Tigers’ success, and Kelly says he’s not just a pass rusher…

Cut 11 (14) ” …developmental process.”

The Tigers kick off the season September 1st in Las Vegas versus USC.

____________________________________________________________________

Fitness guru and New Orleans native Richard Simmons passed away on Saturday at 76. Simmons was born in New Orleans in 1948 and was an overweight child, but he became a cultural phenomenon because of his energetic personality displayed in his exercise videos. Tulane Sports Performance Manager Mackie Shilstone…

Cut 12 (08) “…could do it.”

Simmons, who was once a student at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, was known worldwide for his Sweatin to the Oldies aerobics videos.

Simmons, who got to be 200 pounds as a child, renamed himself Richard when he was ten years old to help improve his self-image. He moved to Los Angeles in the 1970s and developed an interest in fitness. He opened an exercise studio called the Anatomy Asylum and Shilstone says Simmons used mass media to turn himself into a fitness icon…

Cut  13 (08) “..paid his dues.” 

Simmons helped people lose weight for 35 years and Shilstone says there will never be anyone like him again…

Cut  14 (05) “…made it fun.” 

_________________________________________________________________________

Cut 15 (13) “…not true.”

Cut  16 (10)   “…Thursday.”

An assassination attempt against former president Donald Trump took place at his rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Mel Bridges.”

_______________________________________________

Drivers may notice more road buckles on concrete roads as the summer continues, but it’s nothing to be afraid of if you’re driving safely. Sean Richardson has the story.

Cut 2 (26)  “…I’m Sean Richardson.” 

____________________________________________

SEC Media Days begin in Dallas today with Brian Kelly and the Tigers set to kick things off. Tiger Rag editor Todd Horne expects confidence from the Tigers. Kace Kieschnick has more…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.” 

______________________________________________

Former President Donald Trump is not seriously hurt after he was shot at in an assassination attempt on Saturday. LSU Political Science Professor Dr. Robert Hogan says historically, political assassinations aren’t unheard of, but they are extremely unlikely.

Cut 4 (09) “…context, right?”

Trump was hit by a bullet in the ear at his rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, but he wasn’t seriously injured and left the rally safely. Hogan says most Americans have preset, hardened notions of Trump and President Joe Biden as presidential candidates, and…

Cut 5 (06) “…views.”

Both Trump and Biden called for unity among Americans in the wake of the assassination attempt. Some have theorized that Trump may be deviating from his usual brand of loudly placing blame to try getting extra pity votes, but Hogan says it’s too early to tell.

Cut 6 (10) “…we’ll just have to see.”

Two audience members were seriously wounded and one was killed by the shooter, who was then killed by federal counter-snipers. A motive has not yet been determined.

_________________________________________________________

Two attendees of a rally for former president Donald Trump in Pennsylvania are critically injured and one is dead after a man who was not at the rally shot at the former president in an assassination attempt. Trump was hit in the ear by a bullet but wasn’t seriously harmed and left the rally safely. Republican Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana…

Cut 7 (10) “…in your prayers.”

The shooter, a 20-year-old who was not part of the rally, was killed by federal counter-snipers. A motive for the would-be assassination has not yet been determined, though Cassidy says the shooting has clear implications that go beyond a single incident.

Cut 8 (10) “…to be condemned.”

Both Democrats and Republicans agree the shooting was an unnecessary tragedy, with both Trump and president Joe Biden calling for unity among Americans in the wake of the shooting. Cassidy says no matter the issue, violence is never the answer.

Cut 9 (09)  “…the worst.”

________________________________________

As the temperature continues to climb, motorists may encounter a disruption known as road buckling. Louisiana DOTD spokesperson Erin Buchanan says road buckling is a normal thing that happens to concrete roads in heat. Debris and moisture fall into the joints of concrete roads over time, and when it gets hot…

Cut 10 (11) “…triangle.”

Road buckling can happen suddenly and unexpectedly, but Buchanan says it shouldn’t pose a danger if you’re going the speed limit and not driving distracted. She says even if you’ve never seen a road buckle before…

Cut 11 (10) “…caught my attention.”

Unfortunately, Buchanan says, there’s no way to prevent road buckles. If you encounter a road buckle while driving, she recommends reporting it to your regional DOTD as soon as it’s safe to do so.

Cut 12 (12) “…as quickly as possible.” 

You can report road buckles or any road problems by going to dotd.la.gov. 

________________________________________________________________

LSU kicks off SEC Football Media Days in Dallas today with Head Coach Brian Kelly. The Tigers will look to improve on a 10-and-3 season last year but will have to do so without Heisman winning quarterback and leading rusher Jayden Daniels. Tiger Rag editor Todd Horne says he expects Kelly to replace Daniels’ production with an established traditional run game…

Cut 13 (13)  “…offensive lines.”

Horne says Kelly is confident in the talented arm of quarterback Garrett Nussmeier. While the offense may look different, it can be just as explosive with Nussmeier and his talented weapons. Horne says tight end Mason Taylor is set for a big year in all phases of the offense…

Cut 14 (13)  “…in the past.”

Linebacker Harold Perkins Jr. was a freshman All-American in 2022 but took a step back with the rest of the defense last year. He began the season as an inside linebacker before being moved back outside, but Horne trusts new Defensive Coordinator Blake Baker to develop him as an off-ball linebacker…

Cut 15 (08)  “…inside linebacker.”

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Shreveport issued a record 67 tornado warnings across the ArkLaTex Monday due to the impact of Hurricane Beryl. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (30) …I’m Sean Richardson.”

______________________________________

The Democratic National Convention will be held next month, and Louisiana will have 53 delegates present. According to one of them, he believes the vast majority will support President Biden. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

______________________________________

The National Weather Service (NWS) in Shreveport issued a record 67 tornado warnings across the ArkLaTex Monday due to the impact of Hurricane Beryl. NWS Meteorologist Ryan Knapp…

Cut 3 (10) “…from 2005.”

This unprecedented activity caused widespread power outages, damage to structures and numerous trees were toppled over. The NWS has confirmed 5 tornados so far and will continue to survey the area…

Cut 4 (09) “…next week.”

At least two of the five tornadoes they confirmed on Monday were an EF 2, with peak winds around 125 miles per hour. Both of those tornadoes touched down in Sabine and crossed into DeSoto parishes.

Knapp says Beryl is an example of how hurricanes and tropical storms can impact communities hundreds of miles away from the coastline…

Cut 5 (10)  “..flooding rainfall threat.”

Of the 67 tornado warnings across the region, 18 included Central Louisiana parishes.

_________________________________________________________

Of the 53 Louisiana delegates attending the Democratic National Convention in Chicago next month, delegate and Public Service Commissioner Davante Lewis says the vast majority will cast their ballot for President Biden. Since Biden’s debate performance, Lewis says there are legitimate concerns about his health…

Cut 6 (07) “…(x2) back up.”

Lewis says it’s one thing for Biden to say he’s fit for office for a second term, but now he has to show it to American voters…

Cut 7 (11) “…four years.”

Lewis says he believes the hysteria over Biden’s health will calm down and by mid-August delegates will be…

Cut 8 (11)  “…of America.”

The Democratic Convention will be held August 19-20.

__________________________________________________________

Walmart’s 11th Annual Open Call, held virtually across the United States lets entrepreneurs pitch their products to Walmart buyers. Walmart spokesperson Mark Espinosa says the Open Call aligns with Walmart’s broader strategy to spend an additional $350 billion on items made, grown, or assembled in the U.S.

Cut 9 (09) “…our customers.”

Selected applicants gain access to Walmart’s extensive distribution network, which can significantly boost their business growth.

Cut 10 (07) “…company wide.”

Entrepreneurs who get selected will be notified the week of August 20^th to pitch their product in Bentonville, AK on September 24-25. Espinosa says it all comes down to the pitch…

Cut 11 (09) ” …customers want.”

The deadline for applications is July 15. Go to WALMART.COM/OPENCALL to apply

____________________________________________________________________

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill says her criminal division has started an investigation into the ankle monitoring contract with the Juvenile Court system in New Orleans. It’s in response to a Fox 8 TV report that said a 15-year-old, who allegedly fatally shot New Orleans tour guide Kristie Thibodaux, was wearing a deactivated court-ordered ankle monitor.,,,

Cut 12 (04) “…happened.”

Kevin Nunez is accused of killing Thibodeaux as she sat in her car near Jackson Square on June 30th. Nunez is one of three teens arrested and charged in the 43-year-old’s death.

WWL-TV reports Nunez was released from juvenile justice custody in May after convicted for domestic abuse battery, illegal possession of a handgun and seven counts of aggravated assault with a firearm. Murrill is also calling on the Louisiana Supreme Court to make sure judges are not allowing violent offenders back on the street

Cut  13 (08) “…happens.” 

The Louisiana Department of Education announced a 10-percent improvement in reading scores on the state’s first universal literacy screener for K-3 students. Sean Richardson has more…

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

_______________________________________________

After her four-year-old son was found dead behind a Welcome Center in Vinton, and her one-year-old alive in a ditch along Interstate 10, a Lake Charles woman has been arrested in Mississippi. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Brooke Throington.” 

____________________________________________

Colorado State University has updated its 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook; now they’re calling for an even busier season. Mel Bridges has the details.

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Mel Bridges.” 

______________________________________________

Louisiana K-3 public school students showed improvement in reading scores on the state’s first universal literacy screener. The results show significant gains, particularly in K-1st grade. Deputy Superintendent Dr. Jenna Chaisson…

Cut 4 (12) “…end of the school year.”

The screener assesses reading abilities to identify areas needing improvement and progress with literacy screeners throughout the school year.

Cut 5 (10) “…achievement level.”

The overall improvement reflects the effectiveness of the state’s literacy plan, which includes phonics instruction and teacher training. Chaisson emphasized the need for continued efforts to ensure all students reach grade-level reading proficiency.

Cut 6 (09) “…keep up that work.”

The areas with a decline in scores are attributed to pandemic-related disruptions, including closures of early care centers and potential impacts from mask-wearing on speech development.

_________________________________________________________

A recent nationwide survey of small business owners finds inflation remains the top problem for Main Street, but the optimism is at the highest point since December 2023. NFIB’s Todd Pack says their Small Business Optimism Index is up to 91.5 but that’s not all that optimistic…

Cut 7 (06) “…ninety-eight.”

The survey found 21% of owners reporting inflation as the most important problem for their businesses. Pack says inflation is tricky for small businesses to navigate because though inflation isn’t rising as fast as it did a few months ago, it’s still increasing…

Cut 8 (10) “…as it did.”

Another issue the survey found was hiring. Even though 22% of small business owners plan to raise compensation in the next three months, Pack says many small businesses had serious trouble filling job openings, especially construction, transportation and retail.

Cut 9 (11)  “…hiring for.”

________________________________________

Twenty-five-year-old Aaliyah (Ah-lee-ha) Jack of Lake Charles was arrested in Mississippi after the body of her four-year-old son was found Monday in a body of water behind the Vinton Welcome Center. Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Stitch Guillory says but miraculously her one-year-old child was found alive about six miles away in a ditch. He says an autopsy will be performed on the four-year-old.

Cut 10 (07) “…reveal that.”

Jack is charged with failure to report a missing child and is being held on a $300,000 bond. Guillory says detectives will interview Jack in Meridian, Mississippi and a motive has not been released.

Family members told authorities the children were last seen on Saturday and investigators believe the children were abandoned on Sunday. Guillory says this means the infant survived on his own for two days.

Cut 11 (11) “…out there.”

When news that a child’s body was found Monday at the Welcome Center on the Texas-Louisiana state line, Guillory says they received a call from a relative who believed the child could be Jack’s son. They also told investigators about the infant, so they returned to search for the one-year-old.

Miraculously Tuesday morning Guillory says a truck driver spotted the infant.

Cut 12 (11) “…immediately.” 

Guillory says the infant was taken to the hospital and appears to be ok and is in the custody of the Department of Children and Family Services.

________________________________________________________________

Colorado State University has updated its 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook to predict an even busier season. They’re now calling for 25 named storms, 12 hurricanes, and six major hurricanes. Nick Mesa (may-sa) with the Colorado State Hurricane Forecast Team says the above-average season is due to two factors…

Cut 13 (08)  “…forecast.”

So far, we’ve seen three named storms, one of which was a major hurricane. In fact, Mesa says Beryl, which turned into a major hurricane faster than any other storm, harkens back to Hurricane Emily in 2005 because in both cases…

Cut 14 (09)  “…hyperactive season.”

Mesa stresses that these numbers are a prediction, not a guarantee of how many storms we’ll see this year. Still, he says, this outlook should encourage residents, especially coastal residents…

Cut 15 (10)  “…officials.”

___________________________________________________________________

The Pelicans have officially introduced point guard Dejounte Murray after they got him from the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for five players and two future first-round picks. Murray says he’s excited to help better a team that he believes is on the up-and-up

Cut 16 (19) “…get better.” 

Murray was one of only two players in the league to finish last season with at least 1,500 points, 500 assists, and 100 steals, the other being MVP Nikola Jokic. Murray says he feels at home with the Pelicans because he believes everyone on the team matches that level of competitiveness.

Cut 17 (18) “…as a person.”

Head Coach Willie Green says he’s always admired Murray’s performance on- and off-court. He believes Murray has a role to play for the Pels as a point guard and as a mentor, and he says what Murray brings is good for the team’s play, conduct, and bond.

Cut 18 (10)  “…whole career.”

In exchange for Murray, the Pelicans gave Atlanta Dyson Daniels, E.J. Liddell, Larry Nance Jr., Cody Zeller, and two future first-round picks.

Louisiana’s only Democrat in Congress, Troy Carter, says despite the bad performance in the debate, he still supports President Biden’s re-election bid.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (32) …I’m Sean Richardson.”

______________________________________

Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy believes calls for President Biden to step aside as the Democratic nominee and even step down from office should be heard. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

______________________________________

After a disappointing first debate, several Democrats have called for President Joe Biden to step aside for the November presidential election. But Louisiana’s only Democratic Congressman, Troy Carter, says even though the President had a bad night but that doesn’t mean he’s not fit for office…

Cut 3 (10) “…debate performance.”

The President sent a letter to Congressional Democrats telling them he’s firmly committed to staying in the race and beating Donald Trump.

Carter and other Democrats participated in a Zoom call with Biden on Monday night. Carter says the President was strong, clear and energized when speaking.

Carter says the President had a bad night, but Trump has had bad days too.

Cut 4 (09) “…get out of the race.”

Carter says the American people should look at 3.5 years of the Biden Administration, no just one night.

Cut 5 (11)  “…promises kept

The second presidential debate is scheduled for September 10^th.

_________________________________________________________

Tropical Storm Beryl claimed the life of a 31-year-old Benton woman Monday after a tree fell on her home. Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office Lt. Matt Gaydos (gay-dess) says the damage included downed trees on powerlines, roads, and other structures. The fatality happened in northeast Benton.

Cut 6 (12) “…almost immediately.”

No other details were released about the fatality.

Gaydos says Bossier Parish took the brunt of Beryl in Louisiana and says there are about 55-hundred homes without power as of this afternoon. He says crews are working to clear roads and restore power. Gaydos says deputies responded to 72 calls during the storm.

Cut 7 (10) “…rolls through here.”

No roads are closed in Bossier Parish, but Gaydos says many are single-lane traffic. They are urging people not to go sightseeing to avoid any future accidents or to hinder crews working. For power restoration times customers should contact SWEPCO

In Desoto Parish, Mark Pierce with the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s office says they also received storm damage from Beryl. He says there was notable damage in the Lula community where Beulah Baptist Church appears to be destroyed and damage to several homes.

Cut 8 (12)  “…foundation.”

Pierce says at one time yesterday he was monitoring four twisters moving through the parish…

Cut 9 (12) “…of Mansfield.”

While the number of tornadoes has yet to be confirmed by the National Weather Service, Pierce says they had as many as four being active at the same time Monday.

__________________________________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) announced new measures to improve safety on the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge. This includes the installation of new speed limit signs and “your speed” feedback signs. DOTD Spokesperson Rodney Mallett…

Cut 10 (11) “…speeding and tailgating.”

The speed limit will be 60 mph for all vehicles, replacing the previous limits of 55 mph for trucks with trucks still restricted to the right lane.

Cut 11 (09) ” …18-mile stretch.”

The installation of “your speed” feedback signs to alert speeding drivers and warn them to slow down when traveling too fast aim to reduce fatal and injury crashes that often keep the basin bridge closed for hours at a time.

Cut 12 (06) “…basin bridge.”

DOTD will closely monitor speed, crash and incident-related date to determine the effectiveness of the speed limit and feedback signs.

2021 saw the highest number of incidents on the Basin Bridge with 278 crashes, 91 injuries and 2 fatalities.

____________________________________________________________________

Republican Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy had some strong words about President Biden’s health and rumored cognitive issues after his dismal performance in the June 27th debate. Cassidy says it’s best for the country if Biden isn’t re-elected.

Cut  13 (13) “…absurd.” 

Cassidy, who’s also a medical doctor, says he’s had patients who present with similar cognitive issues and once you begin this decline, it continues and often accelerates.

Cut  14 (08) “…of the United States.” 

When asked if he believes the 25^th Amendment, should be invoked Cassidy says…

Cut 15 (13) “…not true.”

This year’s I Voted Stickers have been unveiled and they feature a crawfish in a suit and top hat named Mark D’Ballot. Mel Bridges has more.

Cut 1 (29) …I’m Mel Bridges.”

______________________________________

Louisiana was spared the brunt of Beryl, but the Bayou State will experience rain, and the western half of the state is under a tornado watch until 10 PM. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

______________________________________

Louisiana’s 2024 I Voted Stickers have been unveiled, featuring a crawfish sporting a suit and top hat named Mark D’Ballot. This year’s sticker was designed by Shreveport artist William Joyce, who says the sticker is an important and fun project to be part of.

Cut 3 (12) “…ends up mattering.”

Joyce says he wanted to create a sticker that appeals to the satisfaction people feel when they vote, regardless of politics. He even went back and made the crawfish look happier in the final design to ensure people are enticed to vote and feel proud once they do.

Cut 4 (08) “…and I want to, too.”

Joyce has created and worked on several children’s books, TV shows and movies, including multiple Academy Award winners. Despite his impressive resume, he thinks the I Voted stickers are the most important thing he’s ever worked on because the impact is immediate and far-reaching.

Cut 5 (08)  “…what’s the downside?”

The stickers will be handed out to people who vote in the fall election.

_________________________________________________________

Beryl made landfall early this morning as a category 1 hurricane along the Texas coast and has since been downgraded to a tropical storm. While Louisiana was spared the brunt of the storm LSU Climatologist Barry Keim says the Bayou State will have precipitation today as Beryl moves north-northeast.

Cut 6 (11) “…out of this.”

The western half of the state is under a tornado watch until 10 pm.

Keim says a few days ago Beryl’s project path was northeastern Mexico, but the track began to take a turn to the east.

Cut 7 (12) “…days ago.”

Storm surge values are predicted to be less than three feet along Louisiana’s southwestern coast. Keim says that will cause some issues because a three-foot surge is not insignificant.

Cut 8 (11)  “…all that.”

More than two million businesses and homes in Texas are without power.

__________________________________________________________

President Joe Biden has announced he has no plans to step aside as the Democratic presidential nominee after a lackluster debate performance that did little to dispel rumors about alleged cognitive decline. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says despite this, some Democrats are hesitant to rally behind Biden.

Cut 9 (10) “…territory.”

Some Democratic lawmakers have called on Biden to drop out of the presidential race, though they didn’t offer up any nominees. Despite Biden saying he won’t step aside, Hogan thinks it would be beneficial for the Democrats to explore the possibility of having someone else run.

Cut 10 (12) “…all there.”

Biden says his poor debate showing was due to nerves and difficulty combatting former President Trump’s false claims, not a sign of any mental issues. However, Hogan thinks Biden should still submit to a neurological exam to assure voters and world leaders…

Cut 11 (12) ” …in the world.”

Democrats will announce a formal presidential nominee at their National Convention in August.