Independent candidate Hunter Lundy says he’s the best choice for governor because he’s focused on what the state needs, not political parties. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Federal and state officials are trying to stop saltwater from coming up the Mississippi River and impacting drinking water in southeast Louisiana. Jeanne Burns has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeanne Burns.”

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LSU gymnast Olivia Dunne and women’s basketball star Angel Reese are on this month’s cover of Sports Illustrated because of their NIL earning power. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 3 (32) …I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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We continue our profiles of the six main candidates for governor. Independent Hunter Lundy says he’s the most qualified to be governor because he’s not part of the old system or establishment…

Cut 4 (11) “…but the Lord.”

The Lake Charles native and attorney says Louisianans are tired of partisan politics. He notes the most recent legislative session in which lawmakers had a significant surplus of funding, but yet Republicans fought with Democrats and then Republicans fought each other…

Cut 5 (12) “…Louisiana wants.”

Lundy says early childhood education is his first priority for Louisiana. He wants to adequately fund programs to begin educating children as young as three years old, and doing that will tackle other major issues plaguing the state, poverty and crime.

Cut 6 (11) “…working society.”

Lundy is also in favor of increasing the minimum wage. Early voting for the October 14^th primary begins Saturday.

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungessor will meet with Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux Friday to help resolve issues concerning their Mardi Gras parade schedules due to a shortage of law enforcement. Nungessor says he has made a request to Governor Edwards to help the city work out security issues.

Cut 7 (11) “…Mardi Gras.”

Arceneaux has suggested changing the dates and times to keep the city’s two largest parades, the Krewe of Centaur and the Krewe of Gemini from rolling after dark. His concern comes after a 17-year-old from Texas was fatally wounded during the Krewe of Gemini this year.

The mayor has asked Centaur to move their parade from February 3^rd to February 4^th. Nungessor says he recently promoted Shreveport’s Mardi Gras while on a tour of New Zealand and Australia. He says this decision could potentially impact Louisiana tourism.

Cut 8 (12) “…a problem.” 

Nungessor says the Mayor is looking to hire 60 additional officers.

Cut 9 (11)  “…they’re elected.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards plans to ask the federal government to declare a state of emergency to help in the effort to keep saltwater from coming up the Mississippi River and impacting local drinking systems. Edwards says it’s already impacting lower Plaquemines Parish and he wants as many federal agencies involved….

Cut 10 (12) “…of emergencies.”

A lack of rainfall over the Mississippi River basin has led to a low Mississippi River, which is allowing saltwater to move upstream. If the saltwater gets into local water systems, it would make the water unsafe to drink, which has prompted many in the New Orleans area to rush and buy bottled water. But Edwards says there is no need…

Cut 11 (10) “…hearingl.”

Edwards says accurate information and updates about the saltwater intrusion can be found at emergency-dot-la-dov.

The Army Corps of Engineers constructed an underwater sill in July, which performs like a levee, slowing the saltwater from moving upstream. Colonel Cullen Jones says they started adding another 25 feet to the sill.

Cut 12 (08) “..10 to 15 days” 

But Jones says without significant rain, the underwater still will be overtopped so they plan to transport 15 million gallons of fresh water by barge that can used by local water treatment plants.

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LSU stars Angel Reese and Olivia Dunne are on the cover of this month’s issue of Sports Illustrated because they are leading college athletes in NIL deals. SI’s senior writer Stephanie Apstein says these are two young women making a lot of money, but LSU is committed to helping their athletes manage their money.

Cut 13 (08) “…more often.”

Both are worth more than $1.5 million in NIL deals, according to the NIL 100 list. Reese is worth nearly $2 million, while Dunne is over $3 million.

Dunne has created the “Livvy” fund which helps other female athletes cash in on NIL revenue. And Angel Reese donated $12 thousand to her former high school in Baltimore. Apstein says both are making major philanthropic moves.

Cut 14 (11) “…I think”

Apstein commends Reese and Dunne for capitalizing on lucrative NIL deals while in college. She believes its more difficult for females to stay on top after graduating.

Cut 15 (12) “…opportunities there.”

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A painful loss for the Saints yesterday as New Orleans led 17-0 going into the fourth quarter and lost 18-17 to Green Bay. Quarterback Derek Carr went down with an injury in the third quarter and backup Jameis Winston could not lead New Orleans to any points. Coach Dennis Allen was asked about Winston’s performance…

Cut 16 (16) “…weren’t good enough”

Allen says Carr was taken to a Green Bay-area hospital for x-rays and an evaluation, to we don’t know the extent of his injury. New Orleans will look to bounce back next Sunday at home against Tampa Bay. Winston says they’ll be ready…

Cut 17 (15) “…bounce back”

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It wasn’t the blowout victory many LSU fans were expecting on Saturday night but the 12th-ranked Tigers still came away with a 31-28 victory over Arkansas. LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels started slow, but eventually got into a rhythm and threw for 320 yards and four touchdowns. Daniels says getting the running game involved in the second half was key…

Cut 18 (16) “…easier.”

Arkansas had a 10-point lead late in the second quarter and didn’t give up in the second half when LSU took the lead. Razorbacks quarterback KJ Jefferson threw for 289 yards and rushed for another 48 yards to give the Hogs a chance. LSU Coach Brian Kelly gives credit to Jefferson for making it a tough game…

Cut 19 (18) “…another chance” 

A Damian Ramos 20-yard field goal in the final seconds was the winning score. LSU’s defense allowed 426 yards as there were a few blown coverages. Kelly says they will keep working at it as they begin a two-game road trip this Saturday at Ole Miss…

Cut 20 (21) “..with the win” 

Saturday is the last day to register to vote for the October 14th gubernatorial primary. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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The editorial staff of the Times-Picayune and NOLA.com endorses Stephen Waguespack for governor. Brooke Thorington has his reaction and frontrunner Jeff Landry’s.

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

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UL Lafayette has seen an increase in the number of incoming freshmen for the third year in a row. A total of 3,066 first-time freshman students enrolled for the fall semester. Vice President of Enrollment DeWayne Bowie says this freshman class stands out for their overall academic achievement.

Cut 3 (10) “…a group”

The fall freshman class is the second largest since the university started selective admissions nearly two decades ago. Nearly 31 percent of the freshmen class are STEM majors with 15 percent enrolled in nursing and health sciences. Bowie touts the university’s reputation for its nationally recognized academic and research programs.

Cut 4 (11) “…on that..”

The university’s overall enrollment is 19,056 – a one percent increase since last year. Bowie also points out that the retention rate for students is 76 percent.

Cut 5 (12) “ …as well”  

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Tomorrow (Saturday) is the last day to register to vote for the October 14th primary. You can do so at geauxvote.com and look for the voter portal. Deputy Secretary of State for outreach, Joel Watson, says two-point-nine million people are registered to vote in Louisiana, so most adults who are eligible to vote are registered

Cut 6 (11) “…local races”

Watson says if you recently moved, you have until Saturday night at 11:59 to update your address so you can vote in the correct precinct…

Cut 7 (11) “..be done” 

One-point-one million people are registered as a Democrat, while just over one-million voters are registered as a Republican. Watson says the margin of registered Democrats versus Republicans is shrinking, while the number of other party voters is increasing…

Cut 8 (12) “…Republicans are”

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While Republican frontrunner Jeff Landry has the support of the state GOP behind him in the governor’s race, he failed to receive an endorsement from the editorial staff of the Times-Picayune and NOLA.com. Landry says if they had endorsed him, it would have come as a shock…

Cut 9 (09) “…to me.” 

Former Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President and Republican Stephen Waguespack did get the nod from the media outlet. He says the endorsement mirrors what he’s hearing on the campaign trail.

Cut 10 (12) “…us behind.”

Despite not receiving the Times Picayune and NOLA.com endorsement Landry says he remains focused on moving the state forward…

Cut 11 (08) “…on voters.”

The endorsement of Waguespack noted his knowledge inside the political ring with LABI and work in Governor Bobby Jindal’s administration, but at the same time said he’s a political outsider. Waguespack agrees…

Cut 12 (11) “…the system (x2)” 

We are 22 days away from the October 14th primary and early voting begins Saturday, September 30th.

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63-year-old Greg Lawson of Ringgold who was convicted of attempted murder but fled during the trial more than three decades ago, has been captured in Mexico. Bienville Sheriff John Ballance says authorities received information on Lawson’s whereabouts which led to his capture.

Cut 13 (11) “…capture ultimately.”

Lawson shot Seth Garlington after a dispute in a gas station parking. Garlington was shot but survived his injuries.

A Bienville grand jury indicted Lawson for attempted second-degree murder but Ballance says Lawson did not stick around for the verdict.

Cut  14 (09) “…be found.”

The FBI received several leads into the cold case over the years but a tip earlier this month led authorities to Mexico. Ballance hopes Lawson’s capture will bring justice to his victim.

Cut 15 (03) “…be served.”

The Times-Picayune, NOLA-dot-com has endorsed Republican Stephen Waguespack in the governor’s race. Jeff Palermo  has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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If you’re seeing large amounts of crickets, you’re not the only one. Teiko Foxx has an explanation for the increase of the late-night crawlers.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”  

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LSU Health New Orleans School of Nursing has been awarded a one million dollar grant to help create a more diverse nursing workforce. Assistant Dean for Clinical Nursing Education Dr. Benita Chatmon says not only is this grant for undergraduate students in college but high schoolers who might be interested in a nursing career…

Cut 3 (07) “…for college”

According to the U-S Census Bureau, African Americans, Hispanics, Asians, and American Indians make up 40 percent of the US population, but minorities only make up 20-percent of the nursing workforce. Chatmon says if they can have more minority nurses, it could result in better health outcomes for Blacks…

Cut 4 (10) “…care of.”

Chatmon says a portion of the funding will also go towards promoting academic success for minorities seeking a degree in nursing…

Cut 5 (09) “ …nursing program”  

The grant was awarded by the Department of Health and Human Services.

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The Times-Picayune and NOLA-dot-com has endorsed Republican Stephen Waguespack for governor. The paper says Louisiana’s next governor must be laser focused on Louisiana’s future, not distracted by Washington-style sideshows. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says NOLA.com’s editorial staff is not a fan of Republican front runner Jeff Landry…

Cut 6 (10) “…hot button issues”

A poll paid for by Louisiana TV stations released this week showed Waguespack running in a distant third place in the October 14th primary, behind Landry and the lone main Democrat Shawn Wilson. Hogan says this endorsement could provide Waguespack with a bump….

Cut 7 (05) “..second look” 

NOLA.com is owned by John Georges, who unsuccessfully ran for governor in 2007 as an Independent. Hogan says Democrat Shawn Wilson failing to get the newspaper’s endorsement is another blow to his campaign…

Cut 8 (12) “…candidacy.”

Waguespack says the endorsement is a sign his solutions driven campaign is resonating with people.

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Have you seen more crickets than usual? A sudden surge of cricket infestations has hit Louisiana. LSU Ag Center Entomologist Aaron Ashbrook says crickets are on the hunt for food after recent rain.

Cut 9 (11) “…by lights.” 

August and September are the prime time of the year for both field cricket and mole cricket activity. It is also mating season, and dry conditions have provided more places for crickets to lay eggs. Ashbrook says the small, dark, and shiny crickets seen around the Bayou State are field crickets. While mole crickets…

Cut 10 (09) “…or legs.”

Ashbrook points out the lifespan of a cricket averages around 90 days, so a decrease in population can be expected in the upcoming fall months. But if they are a nuisance, he suggests sealing all possible entry points to your home to keep them out.

Cut 11 (09) “…your home.”

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Six Louisiana Tech all-time greats were honored last night with the unveiling of their statues at the school’s new Champions Plaza. 75-year-old Terry Bradshaw was there to see it. The former quarterback played at Tech in the 1960s and went on to win four Super Bowls with the  Pittsburgh Steelers. Bradshaw says he’ll never forget his time in Ruston…

Cut 12 (14) “…fun ever” 

Karl Malone was a force on the basketball court at La Tech. He went on to have a hall of fame career in the NBA as he was a 14-time All-Star. An emotional “Mailman” gave thanks to Louisiana Tech…

Cut 13 (12) “…for me.”

Kim Mulkey is the only person in women’s basketball to win a championship as a player, an assistant and as a head coach. She led the Lady Techsters to a national title in 1982 and now there’s a statue of her on campus…

Cut  14 (11) “remarkable teams”

Also getting statues, Teresa Weatherspoon, Willie Roaf and the late Fred Dean.

LSU is celebrating its most academically gifted freshman class in history with a record-high ACT super score of 26.5. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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And then there were six, Republican Richard Nelson has dropped out of the governor’s race. Brooke Thorington has more…

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

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LSU says this incoming freshman class is the most academically accomplished in history with a record-high average ACT score of 26.5, a full point higher than last year’s freshman class.  President William Tate says the class also has record-high GPA of 3.82. He says the university is doing a great job in promoting itself…

Cut 3 (07) “…institution”

Tate is also pleased LSU is keeping a large of majority of the students who choose LSU. He says this fall’s first-to-second year retention rate for the overall student body is at 84-percent…

Cut 4 (09) “…really well.”

LSU‘s overall enrollment is a record 39,419, up two-thousand from a year ago. But Tate says in order to eclipse 40-thousand students the university needs to build a couple of new dorms and add professors…

Cut 5 (13) “ ..reallocate internally”  

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LSU safety Greg Brooks Junior is recovering after undergoing surgery to remove a large brain tumor. Tigers Coach Brian Kelly says Brooks had episodes of vertigo during preseason camp and had another episode last Wednesday…

Cut 6 (08) “…was located”

The family is awaiting biopsy results. Brooks is a co-captain for the Tigers and one of their players in the defensive secondary. Kelly has no idea on if Brooks will be able to play again…

Cut 7 (11) “…to that.” 

Brooks is in his fifth season of playing college football. The Harvey native played his first three years of college football at Arkansas. He transferred to LSU after the 2021 season and was a big part of the Tigers winning the SEC West last year. Kelly knows Brooks still wants to contribute this year…

Cut 8 (10) “…Greg Brooks.”

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Republican Richard Nelson has dropped out of the governor’s race. He made the announcement on social media this morning and endorsed frontrunner and fellow Republican Jeff Landry. La Politics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says Nelson’s decision is a bit of a surprise…

Cut 9 (12) “…that happens.” 

Nelson’s name will however still appear on the October 14^th ballot. Alford says the youngest formidable candidate in the race was polling in the single digits. In his statement, Nelson says he plans to pursue opportunities in the private sector.  But Alford says the endorsement of Landry could prove interesting…

Cut 10 (11) “…Executive Counsel.”

And now with six formidable candidates left in the race, four Republicans, one Democrat, and one Independent, Alford says it remains to be seen how Nelson pulling his name from contention and endorsing the front-runner will play out.

Cut 11 (12) “…wait and see.”

Early voting for the October 14^th primary begins September 30^th.

A statewide survey conducted by Gray Media and Mason-Dixon polling shows 40 percent of respondents plan on voting for Republican Jeff Landry in the October 14th primary. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Louisiana U-S Senator Bill Cassidy is one of a handful of Republican Senators pushing for a federal minimum wage increase. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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The Saints are 2-0 after beating Carolina 20-17 last night in Charlotte. New Orleans offense struggled in the first half, but scored two touchdowns in the second half. Quarterback Derek Carr is glad the Saints defense kept Carolina out of the end zone until late in the fourth quarter…

Cut 3 (13) “…football game.”

Carr threw a first half interception and ended the night throwing for 228 yards. He knows he can be better than that…

Cut 4 (12) “…in practice.”

Tony Jones Junior scored two touchdowns on two short rushing TDs. It was Jones’ first two NFL touchdowns….

Cut 5 (15) “ ..blessed man”  

Jones got more playing time than he thought because of a hamstring injury to Jamaal Williams.

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New poll numbers are out on the governor’s race. According to a survey conducted by Gray Media and Mason-Dixon polling, 40-percent of potential voters plan on voting for Republican Jeff Landry in the October 14th primary. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley says is not a surprise Landry continues to have a big lead over his opponents.

Cut 6 (09) “…the primary.”

The poll shows the lone major Democrat in the race, Shawn Wilson holding second place with 24 percent. Stockley says Wilson should be much higher in name recognition, especially among Democrats.

Cut 7 (10) “…Democrat is.” 

Republican Stephen Waguespack finished in third with nine percent and every other candidate had four percent or lower.  Stockley says none of the other candidates are in a position to move Wilson out of a potential run-off.

Cut 8 (12) “…not working.”

The primary election will be held on October 14th.

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After a possible fentanyl exposure in the evidence room of the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office Monday morning, the department’s evidence supervisor remains hospitalized. Public Information Officer Mark Pierce says the supervisor, who was unable to talk, was found by two deputies.

Cut 9 (11) “…the hospital (x2).” 

The two deputies are recovering at home.

Pierce says it was a frightening experience for everyone involved…

Cut 10 (13) “…after that.”

State Police are leading the investigation into the incident. Pierce says they brought in a Hazmat Team Monday night after the office was closed.

Cut 11 (09) “…anywhere.”

Pierce says the evidence supervisor remains in the hospital as a precaution and is expected to recover.

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Louisiana Republican U-S Senator Bill Cassidy is a co-author of a bill that would gradually raise the federal minimum wage to eleven dollars an hour. Cassidy says its time to have a responsible conversation about to increase the minimum wage for American workers…

Cut 12 (08) “…market has increased” 

Cassidy also supported legislation in 2021 to raise the minimum wage to ten-dollars an hour, but the Democratic-controlled Senate didn’t think it was high enough. Cassidy says it’s time to try again as lower income Americans  are hurt by inflation, which he blames on President Biden…

Cut 13 (06) “…keep up.”

Congress has not raised the federal minimum wage since 2007. Democrats in the Senate have filed a bill that would raise the federal minimum wage to 17-dollars an hour by 2028. Cassidy that’s not achievable

Cut  14 (09) “the good”

The federal minimum wage has not been increased since 2007.

Louisiana’s gas tax goes towards funding roads and bridges. And the state’s largest business association says it’s time to increase it. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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41-year-old Melvin Emde of Oklahoma is in custody accused of faking his own drowning in Louisiana to avoid child rape charges in North Carolina. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The first inpatient mental health unit in Louisiana dedicated to the specialized needs of pregnant and postpartum women is opening at Woman’s Hospital next year. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 3 (33) …I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Gasoline taxes in Louisiana go towards funding the construction and maintenance of roads and bridges in the Bayou State. The current 20-cent per gallon tax hasn’t been raised in more than thirty years but Louisiana Business and Industry President Jim Patterson is calling for that to change.

Cut 4 (09) “…infrastructure.”

It’s not very often that a business association calls for a tax increase and Patterson says it’s part of LABI’s strategic plan for the state. And while the majority of the gubernatorial candidates are against an increase, they aren’t alone…

Cut 5 (10) “…to happen.”

LABI Managing Partner of Economic Leadership Ted Abernathy says when your state depends on logistics for employment and your roads are crumbling and you don’t have the type of infrastructure you need to keep jobs…

Cut 6 (11) “…tough choices.”

And while LABI’s campaign to increase the state’s gasoline tax is part of their LA23 strategic plan, both Patterson and Abernathy acknowledge it will take some time before an increase happens.

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The Marijuana Policy Project has released a voter guide for the October 14th primary so voters can see where the candidates, as well as incumbent legislators, stand on a variety of cannabis issues. Southeast Legislative Manager at M-P-P, Kevin Caldwell, says gubernatorial candidate Sharon Hewitt received an “F” grade…

Cut 7 (10) “…support legalization.”

But Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson received an A-plus grade as he supports legal possession of marijuana for individuals 21 and older. None of the other gubernatorial candidates filled out their questionnaires.

Caldwell says you can also see how other statewide officials feel about legalizing recreational marijuana and they also have scorecards for current lawmakers and the ones running for legislative seat

Cut 8 (11) “…I’ve seen.” 

Caldwell says legalizing marijuana is an issue that’s important to voters and a poll by LSU earlier this year showed that 70 percent support legalizing cannabis for adult use…

Cut 9 (12)  “…constituents are.”

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41-year-old Melvin Emde of Oklahoma is in custody accused of faking his own drowning in Louisiana to avoid child rape charges in North Carolina. St. Charles Parish Sheriff Greg Champagne says on August 7^th they received a call from Emde’s son that his father went under while kayaking on the Mississippi River near Hahnville. Champagne says they were immediately suspicious because he missed court in North Carolina…

Cut 10 (04) “…a hoax.”

On Sunday Georgia State Police attempted to pull over a motorcycle for not having a plate. The driver fled, crashed, and gave them a fake name. Campagne says fingerprints revealed Emde’s identity and arrest record. As for charges he could face in Louisiana…

Cut 11 (09) “…in North Carolina.”

Champagne says they are now able to tell the whole story and how law enforcement from multiple states and agencies worked together to capture Emde.

Cut 12 (10) “…don’t work.” 

Emde was wearing an ankle monitor as a condition of his bail in North Carolina.

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Woman’s Hospital will open the state’s first 10-bed inpatient mental health unit for pregnant and postpartum women. President Rene Ragas says mental health challenges are a leading cause of maternal mortality.

Cut 13 (12) “…right now.”

The unit will allow mothers to spend time with their newborns as they receive mental health treatments. Senior Vice President of Patient Care Cheri Barker Johnson says the unit will be designed to address mental issues by a qualified staff.

Cut 14 (11) “…of things.”

The state’s pregnancy-associated mortality report for 2017 to 2019 found mental health disorders directly impacted 14 percent of pregnancy-related deaths. Johnson says women who are pregnant and postpartum are often sent to other facilities outside of the community.

Cut 15 (12) “…might need”

The unit will be one of only several in the U-S. The hospital plans to open the unit next fall.

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The Saints are 2-0 for the first time since 2013 after beating the Carolina Panthers 20-17 in Charlotte last night. The offense could not find the end zone in the first half, but Tony Jones Jr scored two rushing touchdowns in the second half that were set up by deep passes from Derek Carr to Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed. Coach Dennis Allen says it feels good to start 2-0…

Cut 16 (18) “…problem to have”

The Saints defense allowed its first touchdown of the season in the fourth quarter and made life tough on rookie QB Bryce Young, New Orleans held Carolina to 100 rushing yards, Young threw for 153 yards and he was sacked four times. Allen says the defense followed the game plan….

Cut 17 (16) “…game plan”

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After blowing out Mississippi State in Starkville, the 12th ranked Tigers are getting ready to host Arkansas at 6 PM on Saturday night. The Razorbacks are coming off a home loss to BYU, where they blew a 14 points lead. Hogs Quarterback K-J Jefferson turned it over twice. LSU Coach Brian Kelly says Jefferson might have been caught trying to do too much…

Cut 18 (18) “…against us.”

LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels and receiver Malik Nabers shared SEC Offensive Player of the Week honors  for their performances in the 41-14 win over Mississippi State. Daniels threw for 367 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for two more scores. Nabers caught 13 passes for 239 yards and two TDs. Kelly on why Nabers is one the SEC’s best wide outs…

Cut 19 (18) “…opportunity”

The Tigers held State to 201 yards of total offense on Saturday and they played that well without two starters, safety Greg Brooks who suffered a medical emergency and linebacker  Omar Speights, who has a hip injury. Kelly credits junior linebacker Greg Penn for being a calming presence…

Cut 20 (19) “..with him” 

We all remember how the pandemic impacted the automobile supply chain, but could it happen again with the United Auto Workers’ strike? Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office says a man wanted on child rape charges in North Carolina attempted to fake his own death in Louisiana. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Will Green President of the Louisiana Automobile Dealers Association says local car dealerships already ordered extra parts and vehicles in anticipation of the United Auto Worker’s strike, which began Friday, but if the strike lingers beyond a few weeks…

Cut 3 (04) “…of parts.”

Green says while the supply chain of car parts and vehicles is still catching up from the pandemic, a lengthy strike could result in another significant shortage. He says the strike is impacting Ford, Stellantis, and GM plants.

Cut 4 (09) “…in Detroit.”

According to the LADA, Louisiana’s new car and heavy truck dealers generated more than $19 billion in total sales in 2022 and supported more than 36,000 direct and indirect jobs. Green says the automotive industry has several benefits and it can be lucrative also.

Cut 5 (08) “ …a year.”  

As the current strike enters its fourth day, the last UAW strike in 2019 lasted 40 days.

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Another evacuation order has been issued for residents near Singer in Beauregard Parish after firefighters lost containment of the Tiger Island Fire due to wind and dry conditions. Beauregard Parish Sheriff Spokesperson Shannon Burgess says approximately 200 acres burned where the fire breached and crossed the highway.

Cut 6 (12) “…in danger.”

Air tankers are being used to drop water on the flames located south of La. 110 between Singer and Merryville. Four scooper planes and dozers from the Hwy 113, Elizabeth and Lions Road fires are also en route to assist. Burgess says the highway was reclosed out of caution for motorists in the area.

Cut 7 (11) “…in Singer” 

Engines remain in the area to patrol and observe the fire. Burgess believes a significant chance of danger remains.

Cut 8 (12) “…we can.”

A voluntary evacuation has also been ordered for residents on the west side of La. 27 to Juanita.

______________________________________

The Louisiana Agriculture and Forestry Department announces the arrest of a Rapides Parish man for allegedly setting wildfires in Grant Parish last week. Commissioner Mike Strain says 32-year-old Michael Setliff of Flatwoods set several wildfires off Highway 500 and W-W Melton Road…

Cut 9 (09) “…multiple homes” 

Strain says thanks to the rapid response of local and state firefighters, the fires remained small in size and impact…

Cut 10 (12) “…acre each.”

Setliff faces three counts of simple arson for the fires set in Grant Parish. Strain says he faces several years in prison if convicted…

Cut 11 (10) “…15 years”

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State Fire Marshal investigators believe a deadly fire that tragically killed a mother and her two children last week in St. John the Baptist Parish started in the kitchen area of the home. Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says the fire is still under investigation.

Cut 12 (10) “…the home”

38-year-old Quintella Chopin was found in the bathroom area of the home. Chopin’s seven-year-old daughter was found in a bedroom and her two-year-old son was located near the exit door at the top of the stairwell. Rodrigue says there were no working smoke alarms found in the home.

Cut 13 (11) “…escape safely.”

Families in need of a fire alarm can get help through the Operation Save-A-Life program which provides free fire alarm installation through local fire departments.

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Ochsner MD Anderson in New Orleans is the only hospital in Louisiana to treat adult patients using the groundbreaking CAR T cell therapy. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (30)……I’m Teiko Foxx”

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A major construction project gets underway today on I-20 in the Shreveport-Bossier area and it will result in lane closures for the next two years. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The first round of grants of up to 10 thousand dollars for a homeowner to fortify their roof will be available on October 2nd. Jeff Palermo has the story..

Cut 3 (30) …I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Ochsner MD Anderson Cancer Center in New Orleans is the first medical facility in Louisiana to treat adult patients using CAR T cell therapy. Cellular Therapy Specialist Dr. Clark Alsfield says the treatment is also effective against certain types of blood cancers like leukemia.

Cut 4 (12) “…these lymphomas”

Recent studies show CAR T cell therapy was successful in certain cancer patients with non-Hodgkin lymphoma after one treatment. Alsfield says the therapy uses the patient’s immune system to target and destroy cancer cells.

Cut 5 (11) “…to us.”

A patient’s eligibility depends on the type of cancer and previous treatments they have received. Some patients must have gone through multiple unsuccessful treatments.

A New Orleans patient who received CAR T cell therapy in June is in full remission. Alsfield says the federal government has approved the therapy for its safety and efficacy.

Cut 6 (12) “..another frontier”

An additional patient has started the treatment process and three others are being evaluated to receive treatment by this fall.

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A major construction project gets underway today on I-20 in Bossier and Caddo Parishes as crews will replace the pavement that’s been there since the 1960s. DOTD spokesperson Erin Buchanan says the work will result in lane closures on I-20 in Bossier City for the next two years. She says local motorists can expect delays on I-20 and on the surface roads

Cut 7 (09) “…twice a day.”

She advises motorists to use 1-220 as an alternate route, because of the I-20 lane closures through Bossier City…

Cut 8 (11) “…the reconstruction”

The project costs 118-million dollars. Between 70 to 100-thousand vehicles per day use I-20 in this area and Buchanan says it’s time to replace the pavement that’s been there since the interstate was constructed in the 1960s….

Cut 9 (06)  “…get it started”

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Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon announces the first round of grants of up to 10-thousand dollars for homeowners to repair or replace their roofs will be available on October 2nd. Donelon says this program is  modeled after a successful program that Alabama has been running for a few years…

Cut 10 (08) “…30-million before this year”

Donelon says a fortified roof can lower your homeowners insurance costs and increase the value of your by home by an estimated seven percent…

Cut 11 (10) “…property”

500 grants will be available in this first round of grants at noon on October 2nd.

Donelon says the Louisiana Fortified Homes Program has enough funding to award about three-thousand grants, so there will be additional rounds of funds distributed as year goes on. He says the first half of those grants will be limited to Citizens policyholders

Cut 12 (11) “…their insurance” 

Those interested in the program are encouraged to register before applying for a grant. They can do that l-d-i-dot-la-dot-gov-slash-fortifyhomes.

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The two front-runners in the governor’s race to make a November run-off were attacked multiple times in Friday’s televised debate. Republican John Schroder pointed out Jeff Landry’s campaign took a donation from a trial attorney whose firm was fined two million dollars for participating in a fraud scheme against hurricane victims….

Cut 13 (13) “…how does that happen.”

Landry says a campaign donation would not stop his attorney general’s office from investigating someone who breaks the law…

Cut 14 (12) “…my job.”

Landry is the front-runner in the polls and Democrat Shawn Wilson is in second place, well ahead of the other candidates fighting to get in the run-off. Wilson describes him as pro-life, but says the government should not stand in the way of a woman seeking an abortion…

Cut 15 (10) “…those positions”

Independent Hunter Lundy says the Legislature did the right thing by passing a law that prohibits abortion in most cases…

Cut 16 (08) “…pro life”

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The LSU Tigers put together a dominating performance on Saturday beating Mississippi State 41-14. On this day, the Bayou Bengals looked like a team that could compete for an SEC title. Coach Brian Kelly liked how his team approached its second road trip of the season…

Cut 17 (20) “…Florida State”

Quarterback Jayden Daniels was on point from the beginning, completing his first 13 passes of the game and was 30-of-34 for 361 yards and four total touchdowns. He went to wide receiver Malik Nabers early and often as Navbers finished with a career-high 13 catches for 239 yards and two touchdowns. Kelly says Daniels took advantage of one-on-one coverage on Nabers….

Cut 18 (14) “…getting him the ball.”

And LSU’s defense was outstanding as well. Allowing just 79 yards in the first half. Kelly says the players on defense asked the coaching staff to push them harder…

Cut 19 (10) “…people believe”

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Despite scoring 23 points in the fourth quarter, Louisiana Tech fell to North Texas as the Mean Green made a field goal with three seconds left to beat the Bulldogs 40-37. A key stat in this game was third. North Texas converted 11 of 18 times, while the Bulldogs were just 5 of 14. Tech head coach Sonny Cumbie

Cut 20 (17) “..his feet” 

Tech is 2-and-2 on the season and will visit Nebraska next week.

New campaign finance totals are out for the gubernatorial candidates and Republican Jeff Landry still has a sizable lead in campaign cash on hand. Jeff Palermo has more

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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For the second year in a row, wildlife officials are seeing successful hatchings of the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle on the Chandeleur Islands, which is off the coast of southeast Louisiana. Jeanne Burns has more…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Jeanne Burns”  

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New campaign finance totals for the governor’s race were released today by the state Ethics Board and Republican Jeff Landry continues to have a huge advantage in dollars over his opponents. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says it’s easier for Landry to raise money…

Cut 3 (06) “…investing in him.”

Landry is reporting six-point-six million dollars in cash on hand. Republican John Schroder is reporting one-point-six million dollars, while Stephen Waguespack and Hunter have just over one-million dollars. Democrat Shawn Wilson has just 879-thousand dollars on hand.

Pinsonat says Wilson’s campaign campaign finance number is disappointing

Cut 4 (10) “…he will”

Pinsonat says the dynamics of this race has not changed since it started, Landry has all of the momentum because of the huge fundraising totals that he has over his opponents…

Cut 5 (06) “ …biggest obscacle”  

The primary is October 14th. Early voting is September 30th.

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Wildlife officials are encouraged by successful hatchings of the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle on the Chandeleur Islands, which is off the southeastern coast of Louisiana. Coastal Resources scientist manager with LDWF, Matt Weigel, says the sea turtles were first spotted on the island last year and now there are over 100 sea turtle crawls on the island…

Cut 6 (07) “…big news.”

Weigel says it’s one of the highest-density nesting beaches in the northern Gulf of Mexico.

Cut 7 (06) “…nesting out there” 

Weigel says 300-thousand birds also rely on the islands during the course of the year. But he says the Chandeleur Islands are disappearing and design plans to restore the islands are underway.

Cut 8 (10) “…few decades.”

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A fatal disease known as lethal bronzing is killing off thousands of palm trees across south Louisiana. LSU Ag Center Plant Doctor, Raj Singh says the disease is wiping out 16 different types of palms across the state.

Cut 9 (11) “…phytoplasma disease.” 

The palm tree killer has been detected in Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, East Baton Rouge, West Baton Rouge, and Iberia Parishes. Singh says the disease is transmitted by a small insect known as a planthopper but there’s no cure.

Cut 10 (09) “…that insect.”

The antibiotic treatments are $50 to $100 per treatment and are not available to the average homeowner. What can you do? Singh says you can remove the dead palms and…

Cut 11 (08) “…that match.”

Once a tree is infected, its decline is noticeable in about three months.

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The state Office of Juvenile Justice says it has moved the youth juvenile offenders housed at a temporary facility at Angola to a new juvenile justice facility in Jackson Parish. A federal judge ruled last week the state needs to relocate the youth from the grounds of an adult prison. The lead plaintiffs attorney David Utter is happy to see O-J-J act…

Cut 12 (09) “…juvenile justice systems”

Utter filed the lawsuit to have the youths moved to another facility. He says juveniles were placed in solitary confinement and not getting the necessary rehabilitative treatment. The O-J-J denies those claims, but Utter says the court evidence is clear…

Cut 13 (09) “…children there”

The state moved 15 juvenile offenders from Angola to a new juvenile justice facility in Jackson Parish. Utter says they’ll wait to see how the youths are treated before deciding if they will continue with the civil rights lawsuit…

Cut  14 (07) “…to tell”

The O-J-J moved the youth to Angola after a series of escapes and violent episodes at other juvenile justice facilities. The eventual plan is to house high-risk juveniles at a new state-run facility near Monroe, but it’s still under construction.

Democrat Shawn Wilson releases his first TV ad in his bid to become governor. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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St. Helena College and Career Academy, the site of a fatal school on Tuesday, will remain closed for the rest of the week. Jeff Palermo has more..

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Democrat Shawn Wilson launches his first TV ad in his bid to become governor. The former transportation secretary touts his ability to build bridges literally and figuratively. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan believes the ad is a success because Wilson is able to introduce himself to voters and…

Cut 3 (10) “…together.”

Earlier this month the National Republican Governors Association launched an ad blaming Wilson for the state’s poor road conditions. Hogan says in Wilson’s 30-second spot the Democrat highlights his accomplishments at DOTD.

Cut 4 (07) “…already.”

The ad also expresses the Lafayette native’s desire to move the state forward. Hogan says Wilson’s calling to end political divisiveness is a common theme that voters say they want.

Cut 5 (10) “ …several years.”  

Polls indicate Wilson will most likely face front-runner Jeff Landry in a runoff.

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The Louisiana Department of Health is launching a new website and social media marketing campaign to promote their 988 suicide and prevention helpline. State Suicide Prevention Coordinator Robyn Thomas says the new website is Louisiana 9-8-8-dot-org.

Cut 6 (08) “…zoom backgrounds.”

Since its launch in July of 2022, call volume for 988 has increased by 11 percent. In-state answer rate rose from 64 percent to 87 percent. Thomas says the goal is to reach vulnerable populations including Blacks, Indigenous and People of Color, LGBTQ people, and veterans.

Cut 7 (13) “…crisis situations.” 

LDH hopes to remove the stigma of mental illness and encourage Louisiana residents to reach out if they are in a mental health crisis. Thomas hopes Louisianans will be able to connect with the campaign

Cut 8 (12) “…crisis centers.”

There are five parishes they are particularly targeting with this campaign, Evangeline, Avoyelles, St. Landry. Livingston and Calcasieu. Those are the parishes with the highest suicide rates.

If you are in need of mental health services, call the 988 or visit Louisiana988.org.

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The state’s four largest wildfires continue to burn but are more than 50 percent contained. State Ag and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain says things are looking better and the Tiger Island Fire is now 80 percent contained.

Cut 9 (09) “…fighting fire.” 

More than 1,200 emergency responders from 120 agencies and 26 states have fought wildfires across the state. Strain says it took additional personnel and special equipment to contain fires.

Cut 10 (11) “…drop water.”

The Highway 113 Fire is 89 percent contained, the Lion’s Camp Road Fire is 88 percent contained, and the Elizabeth Fire is 73 percent contained. No injuries or deaths have been reported, but at least 20 structures have been damaged or destroyed. Strain urges Louisianans to continue to respect the burn ban.

Cut 11 (08) “…that match.”

The statewide burn ban remains in effect.

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St. Helena Parish is still in shock over Tuesday’s fatal shooting as school was letting out at St. Helena College and Career Academy in Greensburg. A 16-year-old student was killed and the suspected gunman, a 14-year-old student, is in a juvenile detention center. St. Helena Parish School Superintendent Doctor Kelli Joseph…

Cut 12 (15) “…its core”

Joseph says they originally planned to re-start school tomorrow, but they’ve decided classes will resume on Tuesday…

Cut 13 (04) “…what’s happen”

Southeast Community Health System is providing counseling for teachers and will be on campus when students return Tuesday. Authorities say bullying may have led to Tuesday’s tragic shooting. Joseph says they do look for instances of bullying but a lot of it happens on social media…

Cut  14 (12) “…we are not aware”

Authorities plan to release more information about the shooting next week.