A national survey conducted by the NFIB finds optimism among small businesses continues to improve. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Someone stole a valuable statue from an Ascension Parish historic antebellum estate over the weekend, and the owner would really like it back. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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An NFIB survey finds optimism among small business owners continues to increase. NFIB state director Leah Long says improving business conditions is leading to more optimism among small business owners…

Cut 3 (13) “…their businesses.”

Long says small business owners are also optimistic legislation approved over the last year by the Louisiana Legislature will also help their businesses grow. She says the NFIB believes the tort reform legislation that seeks to reduce frivolous lawsuits and hold down excessive litigation costs was a major highlight…

Cut 4 (10) “…business owners ”

Long says the national survey reflects what they are hearing from their members across Louisiana that sales are improving…

Cut 5 (09) “…for them.”

But Long says many businesses are still having a hard time finding workers with the right qualifications.

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Over the weekend, someone stole a statue of Abraham Lincoln from an Ascension Parish historic antebellum estate, and the owner would really like it back. Kevin Kelly, who owns Houmas House and Gardens in Darrow, discovered the 64-pound silver statue missing Sunday morning. Kelly doubts that it was an inside job.

Cut 6 (10) “…as 21 years.”

Kelly fears that given the statue’s value, the thief has likely melted it down by now. He says what’s just as upsetting as the theft of the statue are some of the reactions people are leaving on the mansion’s Facebook page.

Cut 7 (08) “…Abraham Lincoln here.”

Kelly says it’s important for them to know that he had stayed there on more than one occasion.

Cut 8 (11) “…later, once again.”

The statue is extremely rare — it was created by Gutzon Borglum, whose biggest claim to fame was carving the faces of four U.S. Presidents into the side of Mount Rushmore. Kelly says most guests say the Abraham Lincoln statue was their most favorite part of the tour of the mansion.

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Louisiana’s U-S Senate race has the potential to be heated with Senator Bill Cassidy facing three formidable challengers in a primary election that will be held in April. Many are wondering if President Trump will make an endorsement. Jeremy Alford with L-A Politics weekly says it’s possible Trump stays out of the race…

Cut 9 (10)  “…wouldn’t it.”

State Treasurer John Fleming, state senator Blake Miguez and Public Service Commissioner Eric Skrmetta are challenging Cassidy, who is seeking a third term.

Cassidy is considered vulnerable because of his 2021 vote to impeach President Donald Trump. But Alford says Cassidy has been in President Trump’s corner since his return to White House……

Cut 10 (12) “…during Covid.”

The U-S Senate primary is not until April. Alford says if the primary was held today, he would expect Cassidy to come out on top…

Cut 11 (10) “…on a dime.”

With this being Suicide Prevention Month, and today – 9/8 – being 988 day – the Louisiana Department of Health is joining forces with other organizations in holding 988 Day at the Capitol. Jeanne (“zhahn”) Burns reports.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Jeanne Burns.”

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Governor Landry is a little lighter in the wallet this morning. Andrew Greenstein explains why.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The ACLU of Louisiana says federal and state officials are breaking the law by housing ICE detainees at the State Penitentiary at Angola. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (37) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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With September being Suicide Prevention Month, and with today – 9/8 – recognized as 988 day, the Louisiana Department of Health and other organizations are hosting 988 Day at the Capitol. Sherrard (SHARE-id) Crespo with VIA LINK, which is one of the organizations putting on the event, says the event will be in the Formal Gardens at the Capitol this morning.

Cut 4 (14) “…wellness in Louisiana.”

Crespo says mental health is a major issue in this country, and it’s one that may still be unjustifiably stigmatized.

Cut 5 (15) “…thoughts of suicide.”

Crespo says suicide is especially prevalent among younger Louisianans, and it’s only getting worse.

Cut 6 (13) “…have gone on.”

Crespo says one message they want to get out is that they want lawmakers at both the state and federal levels to continue funding the 988 suicide helpline.

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Governor Landry is 900 dollars lighter in the wallet this morning. Steven Procopio, the president and CEO of the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, says Landry was fined that amount of money related to travel during his time as attorney general.

Cut 7 (07) “…in one case.”

Procopio says there was nothing illicit about these flights; all these flights were for a public purpose related to his duties as attorney general, such as conferences and things of that nature.

Cut 8 (13) “…didn’t disclose it.”

It was that non-disclosure of those trips that drew the fine against Landry. The big question now is – is the 900-dollar fine appropriate? The fines could have been as high as ten-thousand dollars per occurrence. Procopio says due to changes in the law that governs ethics investigations, we will never know whether Landry would have been fined more than the 900 dollars he was fined in total in this instance.

Cut 9 (08)  “…we don’t know.”

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The ACLU of Louisiana says the housing of undocumented immigrants convicted of serious crimes at the Louisiana State Penitentiary is a dangerous disregard of the legal system. ACLU Louisiana legal director Nora Ahmed says housing immigrants in a prison abandon the pretense that immigration detention is civil rather than criminal…

Cut 10 (15) “…to be used”

Ahmed says immigration detention is a civil process to ensure court appearances, not punishment for criminal behavior…

Cut 11 (11) “…already received.”

Angola has a notorious reputation because it was once slave plantation. In the 1960s and 70s, there were numerous incidents of extreme violence and even in recent history there have been accusations of inhumane conditions.

U-S Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem says they absolutely chose Angola to send the worst of the worst ICE detainees because of its reputation…

Cut 12 (11) “…of America.”

There are already 51 ICE detainees housed at Angola with plans to hold more than 400. ICE Deputy Director Madison Sheahan says the facility meets the organization’s standards. The detainees will have access to a legal library and spaces to meet with their attorneys. Sheahan says the plan is for these detainees to eventually be sent back to their home country…

Cut 13 (08)  “…judge’s decision.”

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It wasn’t the blowout that fans, oddsmakers – and apparently coaches – had expected. But, nonetheless, LSU came out of Death Valley Saturday night with a 23-7 lethargic win over Louisiana Tech. After the game, an animated LSU Head Coach Brian Kelly’s tone almost made it sound like LSU had lost.

Cut 14 (19) “…that standard.”

LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier threw for 237 yards, but his longest completion was just 23 yards. He also threw an interception and was sacked three times.

Kelly was disappointed the Tigers couldn’t run the ball better, held to less than four yards a carry. 

Cut 15 (13) “…and coaches alike.”

Kelly made it clear in his animated postgame press conference that he expects better execution because they have the players to do something special this season.

Cut 16 (16) “…that’s diappointing”

LSU takes on Florida next Saturday in Death Valley. Florida is looking to bounce back after being upset at home by South Florida, 18-16, despite being 18 and a half point favorites.

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Louisiana Tech’s offense continues to struggle as the Bulldogs had just 154 yards of total offense in the 23-7 loss to LSU. Starting quarterback Trey Kukuk threw for just 50 yards. Back-up Blake Baker led Tech on a scoring drive in the fourth quarter, and Coach Sonny Cumbie hinted at a possible quarterback change…

Cut 17 (19)  “…reading the cuts.”

Tech is back home this Saturday to take New Mexico State in its Conference USA opener.

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The Ragin Cajuns bounced back from an ugly two-point loss to Rice to beat McNeese 34 to 10. Bill Davis rushed for 132 yards and two touchdowns, but Coach Michael Desormeaux’s team threw for only 86 yards. Desormeaux says the passing game will need to improve…

Cut 18 (18) “…work through it.”

The Cajuns are at Missouri this Saturday.

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The Saints battled to the end in Kellen Moore’s head coaching debut but came up a little short in a 20-13 loss to Arizona. Just not enough offense and too many penalties for the Black and Gold. Moore liked the fight from his team…

Cut 19 (15) “…work to do.”

Spencer Rattler threw for 214 yards, but averaged less than five yards a pass. Alvin Kamara had 11 carries and 45 yards rushing and one touchdown. Defensively, the Saints had five sacks, the franchise’s all-time sacks leader Cam Jordan had a sack and a half and also appreciated the fight from his teammates…

Cut 20 (14) “…we didn’t.”

It’s Labor Day, a day off for most Louisiana workers. Jeff Palermo has a look at the state of employment in the Bayou State….

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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For the fifth year in a row, Louisiana will showcase itself in the Tournament of Roses Parade. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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It’s Labor Day, so what is the state of labor in Louisiana? Let’s start with the bad news. Economist Loren Scott says the Lafayette metro and the Houma-Thibodaux area are struggling because of a decline in offshore oil and gas activity…

Cut 3 (11) “…active rigs.”

Now here’s the good news. Scott says hiring will pick up in the Monroe area as workers are needed to build Meta’s ten-billion dollar A-I data center in Richland Parish…

Cut 4 (10) “…crazy good.”

Scott also expects job growth in Lake Charles, Baton Rouge and parts of the New Orleans area, because the price of natural gas is cheap….

Cut 5 (09) “…with us.”

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For a fifth year in a row, Louisiana will showcase itself in the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California, on New Year’s Day. The theme of the 2026 parade is “The Magic in Teamwork,” and Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser says the state’s float, “Gulf to Gumbo,” highlights the teamwork needed to make a delicious pot of a Louisiana staple.

Cut 6 (12) “…pot of gumbo.”

The float itself will feature a shrimp boat and fresh Louisiana seafood, and Nungesser says there will be a larger-than-life chef on top bringing it all together.

Cut 7 (05) “…by a pelican.”

In the past, Louisiana’s floats have featured local musical stars, and Nungesser says this next one will be no exception.

Cut 8 (10) “…is going by.”

The exact song John Foster will be performing hasn’t been determined yet. Construction on the float is currently underway, and the world will watch it make its way down the streets of Pasadena New Year’s Day.

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Postpartum depression is a major issue among new mothers, and health officials say too many mothers and families are not getting the care when they need it. That’s why the Louisiana Department of Health is now offering a new program called TLC Moms. Surgeon General Dr. Ralph Abraham says it provides those women with a valuable resource.

Cut 9 (10)  “…to get help.”

Dr. Abraham says there are several reasons why new mothers may experience postpartum depression.

Cut 10 (08) “…a new life.”

Licensed Professional Counselor Stephanie Boudreaux says postpartum depression is the number-one health issue that new mothers face.

Cut 11 (13) “…during birth itself.”

You can get more information on the TLC Moms program on the Louisiana Department of Health’s webpage.

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Ninth-ranked LSU ended its five-game losing streak in season openers with an impressive 17-10 win over Clemson. The Tigers rallied from a touchdown deficit at halftime to beat Clemson in the highly anticipated opener. Coach Brian Kelly says their preparation helped them prevail…

Cut 12 (14) “…cleeshay.”

It was an impressive showing by the defense, as they made it a long night for Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik with constant pressure. The Tigers also shutdown Clemson’s running game in the second half…

Cut 13 (07)  “…the test.”

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Louisiana Tech shutout Southeastern Louisiana 24-0 on Saturday night in Ruston. The Bulldogs only led 3-0 at halftime, but scored three touchdowns in the third quarter to put the game away. Tech starting quarterback Trey Kukuk (Q-kuhk) threw a touchdown pass and says offensive coordinator Tony Franklin came down from the press box to call plays from the sidelines in the second half…

Cut 14 (14) “…in the second.”

Louisiana Tech is at LSU this Saturday.

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Rough start to the season for the Ragin Cajuns who could only muster one touchdown in a 14-12 loss to Rice at home. Coach Michael Desormeaux expects better from his offense…

Cut 15 (17) “…as one.”

The Cajuns will look to bounce back this Saturday night when they host McNeese.

For the first time in nine years, Shreveport plays host to a regular season football game. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The talking is almost over, LSU and Clemson are set to finally play on Saturday night in a top ten matchup to kickoff the season for both teams. Jeff Palermo has a preview…

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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It’s happening in a different time of the year; but after a nine-year hiatus, Independence Stadium will once again play host to a marquee matchup as Grambling takes on Langston in the Shreveport Kickoff Classic. Grambling Athletic Director Traevean Scott says Langston University, which is an NAIA school out of Oklahoma, has a rich history with several Louisiana ties.

Cut 3 (11) “…to North Louisiana.”

Scott says he’s looking forward to kicking off the season in style in Shreveport, and he’s inviting all football fans to come out and enjoy the festivities.

Cut 4 (13) “…stands as possible.”

Grambling President Dr. Martin Lemelle says if you need to grab yourself a hot dog, a Coke or some other refreshments, your best bet is to do so BEFORE halftime.

Cut 5 (13) “…post the game.”

This will be the sixth time that Grambling and Langston will face one another; Grambling leads the series, four wins to one. Langston’s lone win over the Tigers came in 1996 by a score of 15-14. Kickoff tomorrow night is seven p-m.

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The new Louisiana Correctional Institute for Women opens in St. Gabriel. Warden Kristen Thomas says it has the capacity to house almost one-thousand inmates and consists of 15 buildings which go far beyond the two main housing units.

Cut 6 (11) “…an intake center.”

Thomas says being that this will be the only prison of its kind in Louisiana, it will house inmates of all types.

Cut 7 (09) “…maximum custody inmates.”

One unique feature of this prison is the academic and career technical educational center. The prison has partnered with Ashland University and Tulane University to offer degree programs, and it also offers training programs so that inmates can get certified in several trades while they serve their sentences. Thomas says this way, it will be easier for them to find jobs once they complete their sentences.

Cut 8 (08) “…many different positions.”

The new LCIW is expected to welcome its first inmates sometime in the next few weeks.

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Twenty years ago, LSU’s Pete Maravich Assembly Center was converted into a makeshift, thousand-bed triage and acute care hospital providing emergency medical care to thousands of people affected by Hurricane Katrina. Sean O’ Keefe was the LSU Chancellor at the time and says it was in the state’s emergency preparedness plan that the PMAC would be a shelter for displaced nursing home residents, but it became much more than that…

Cut 9 (16)  “…the demand.”

More than six thousand patients received medical care at the PMAC for several weeks after the storm hit. O’Keefe says the doctors and nurses came from hospitals that were closed because of Katrina.

Cut 10 (14) “…triage this.”

Not only was the PMAC transformed into a field hospital, the number of people living on and around campus grew exponentially. O’Keefe says students who were from the New Orleans area and going to school at LSU had to take in family members…

Cut 11 (11) “…everything else.”

Legendary musician Fats Domino, who had a home in the New Orleans’ ninth ward, stayed with LSU starting quarterback, JaMarcus Russell for a couple of days. Russell was dating Domino’s granddaughter at the time.

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Fifth year senior quarterback Garrett Nussmeier leads LSU into the other Death Valley tomorrow night as the ninth ranked Tigers take on fourth ranked Clemson. Coach Brian Kelly says they are counting on Nussmeier’s experience, and they are asking him to limit mistakes

Cut 12 (11) “…of  the game.”

With a Heisman candidate at quarterback, LSU attacked the transfer portal to upgrade their defense. Clemson coach Dabo Swinney says his offense faces a big challenge on Saturday night…

Cut 13 (13)  “…heck of a matchup.”

Kick-off on Saturday is at 6:30.

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For the first time in 1,022 days, the Northwestern State football team is in the win column! In front of their win-starved fans at Turpin Stadium, the Demons beat Alcorn State, 20-10, to snap a 20-game losing streak. After the game, a very relieved second-year head coach Blaine McCorkle said it feels good to finally get a win in Natchitoches.

Cut 14 (17) “…be a-okay.”

McCorkle said the thrill of victory is so much better than the agony of defeat.

Cut 15 (10) “…in the country.”

The Demons, however, should savor the moment while they can. Next Saturday, they go into Big Ten Country to take on Minnesota, who knocked off Buffalo Thursday night, 23-10.

Among those who rode out Katrina 20 years ago was Louisiana’s lieutenant governor – back then, a private citizen. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The state department of education will use five million dollars in federal money to tutor more students struggling in literacy or math. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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A six-year-old girl is recovering after being shot in Lafayette over the weekend. Lafayette Police Detective Ken Handy says fortunately, the girl will survive.

Cut 3 (05) “…condition has stabilized.”

Detective Handy says one suspect was initially arrested.

Cut 4 (08) “…second-degree murder.”

(The suspect is Daylon Andrus, and he’s charged with attempted second-degree murder). This morning, a second suspect, Ja Andrea Kentrell Willis, was arrested in Beaumont, Texas; he’s awaiting extradition back to Lafayette. Handy says the circumstances surrounding the shooting are still under investigation.

Cut 5 (11) “…of what occurred.”

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Back in August of 2005, Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser was a private citizen who rode out Hurricane Katrina at his home in Plaquemines Parish, which was one of the hardest-hit parishes. Nungesser says what he experienced that day are things he will never forget.

Cut 6 (13) “…would ever see.”

Nungesser helped with the rescue effort, and he said he helped rescue 30 people by airboat.

Cut 7 (13) “…luckily, she did.”

But he said he had to leave others behind because they couldn’t fit in the boat. He brought some of the people he rescued to his house; and he said if he had not done that, it’s unclear whether they would have survived. And Nungesser says humans weren’t the only ones he helped rescue.

Cut 8 (12) “…on for months.”

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The Louisiana Department of Education is investing five million dollars into the Steve Carter Tutoring program, which will result in more students receiving high dosage tutoring. Deputy Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, Doctor Jenna Chiasson, says the five million dollars from the department of education is on top of the five-million dollars the state legislature appropriated for this school year…

Cut 9 (08)  “…deficit areas.”

Now in its third year, the Steve Carter Tutoring Program has experienced increased demand and has a waitlist of eight thousand students. Chiasson says the program offers digital vouchers to eligible families who have students in need of high-quality tutoring in literacy or math….

Cut 10 (10) “…our list.”

Chiasson says Louisiana was one of the first states to leverage high-dosage tutoring statewide to help close pandemic learning gaps. She says the investment has been a key factor in Louisiana from 49th to 32nd on The Nation’s Report Card…

Cut 11 (07) “…national model.”

The five million dollar investment from the Department of Education is actually money that comes from the federal government. Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley praises U-S Education Secretary Linda McMahon for giving Louisiana the flexibility to use this money on the Steve Carter Tutoring Program.

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State Police are looking for the driver who hit and killed a woman walking along an I-10 frontage road in Jefferson Davis Parish. Trooper Peggy Bourque says the incident at around one yesterday afternoon claimed the life of 53-year-old Bonnie Fontenot of Jennings, who had previously been reported missing.

Cut 12 (11) “…at the scene.”

Bourque says at this time, the exact circumstances of the crash are still unclear.

Cut 13 (07)  “…on that further.”

At this time, investigators have nothing to work with – no make, model or any other characteristics of the vehicle. Anyone with information is asked to call State Police.

Another major sporting event is coming to New Orleans. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Smitty’s Supply in Roseland is facing at least five lawsuits because of last Friday’s explosion and fire at the oil and lubricant plant. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The mayor of Ruston is beaming with pride over the announcement that Radiance Technologies is building a microchip packaging site in the city. Mayor Ronny Walker says the company’s arrival will spur future economic development in the city.

Cut 3 (09) “…components of this.”

The facility is expected to create about 150 jobs with salaries averaging about 85-thousand dollars a year. Mayor Walker says he hopes those jobs will be filled by people not only already in the state, but also by people already attending Louisiana Tech.

Cut 4 (10) “…around our country.”

Mayor Walker says one big challenge with attracting new companies and, in effect, creating hundreds of new jobs is figuring out where those new employees are going to live.

Cut 5 (07) “…more homes built.”

The Radiance facility is expected to be completed by the summer of 2027.

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LIV Golf is coming to New Orleans. Governor Landry was on hand to announce that the South Course at New Orleans’ City Park will host a LIV Golf tournament June 26th through the 28th of next year. During the announcement, Landry said New Orleans was meant to host a golf tournament like the ones LIV Golf puts on.

Cut 6 (10) “…again and again.”

The event announcing the tournament had an atmosphere more akin to WWE wrestling than professional golf, and LIV Golf CEO Scott O’Neil said fans attending the tournament can expect much of the same.

Cut 7 (08) “…it is fun.”

Among the big names expected to play in the tournament is Gulf Coast native Bubba Watson, and he said he can’t wait to play in New Orleans.

Cut 8 (08) “…to get here.”

The three-day tournament will take place at the South Course at New Orleans City Park Bayou Oaks, which will be renovated by former LIV Golf Commissioner and CEO Greg Norman.

Louisiana Economic Development says the event will generate a significant economic impact for the region, support 11-hundred jobs and deliver an estimated 40-million dollars to the local economy.

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A nonprofit organization known as Patient Rights Advocate says a recent study found that only six out of 39 hospitals in Louisiana comply with a 2019 Executive Order calling for greater transparency in pricing and quality of services. Beth Branley is a supporter of Patient-Rights Advocate-dot-org…

Cut 9 (09)  “…but it’s not.”

The American Hospital Association says hospitals and health systems have invested significant time and resources to comply with the Hospital Price Transparency Rule. The A-H-A says according to Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, compliance has been growing rapidly and the Patient Rights Advocate report blatantly mischaracterizes hospitals compliance.

But Branley says the report clearly points out that most Louisiana hospitals are failing to comply with the Hospital Price Transparency Rule…

Cut 10 (12) “…many hospitals.”

Branley says if you are getting a surgery at a hospital, get the costs before your visit and that information should be provided to you….

Cut 11 (11) “…procedure.”

A new state-of-the-art microchip packaging facility is coming in Ruston. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Saints are still not ready to name a starting quarterback for the regular season opener against Arizona on September 7^th. Andre Champagne has the story….

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

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Firefighters in Tangipahoa Parish continue to work on putting out a massive fire at a lubricants plant in Roseland that started Friday when the facility exploded forcing the evacuation of nearly one-thousand people. Black soot can be seen on homes, businesses and cars in the area. Tangipahoa Parish President Robbie Miller says if you’re able to clean the soot off our property, you can do so…

Cut 3 (12) “…that product.”

Miller says the soot is being tested by environmental regulators but the results are not available yet.

A portion of the Tangipahoa River is closed as a result chemicals and oil that have made it into that waterway. Miller says there is a cleanup effort underway

Cut 4 (12) “…down the river.”

Residents in the area can also smell oil and grease. But Miller says they are constantly testing the air quality…

Cut 5 (12) “…has been safe.” (2x) 

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LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier will wear the coveted 18 jersey, which goes to a team leader with great character. Receiver Zavion Thomas says not only does Nussmeier command the huddle, but the locker room as well…

Cut 6 (05) “…get going.”

Nussmeier returned for his fifth season at LSU, because he said he wanted to win a championship. Defensive end Jack Plyburn says Nussmeier is the ultimate competitor…

Cut 7 (12) “…he is a gamer””

Starting center Braelin Moore quickly found out who was the leader of LSU when met with Nussmeier during his recruiting visit as he was looking for his next school after starting the last two seasons at Virginia Tech….

Cut 8 (05) “…protect him.”

Ninth ranked LSU visits fourth ranked Clemson on Saturday night to kick off the season.

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It’s still hot, but it feels better outside as LSU public health climatologist Barry Keim says the humidity levels are down and the dew point is ten degrees lower thanks to a cold front that’s moved through…

Cut 9 (10)  “…four to five percent.”

Keim says the break from the hot, oppressive summer will last a few days.

Cut 10 (10) “…while you can.”

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Ruston will soon be home to a new state-of-the-art microchip packaging facility. Radiance Technologies announced that it is investing more than 370-million dollars to expand its footprint in Louisiana with the new facility. Governor Landry was on hand for the announcement at Louisiana Tech; he said it furthers his commitment for Louisiana’s universities to be incubators for job growth.

Cut 11 (14) “…30 years.”

Landry said the investment will help bolster national security, fuel innovation and drive local economic growth. And he said it will restore America’s place in the world as a true innovator.

Cut 12 (12) “…of our time.”

The facility is expected to create 150 new jobs with an average salary of 85-thousand dollars a year. Radiance CEO Bill Bailey says the massive investment is further proof of Louisiana’s commitment to high-tech industry.

Cut 13 (10)  “…recruitment than Louisiana.”

Construction is expected to begin in the spring of 2026, and the facility is expected to be completed in the summer of 2027.

With the State Department of Insurance announcing that 20 auto insurance companies filing rate decreases, the governor is now urging you to do your part in saving money. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Saints wrap up their preseason Saturday at noon against the Broncos. Andre Champagne has a preview.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

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A week ago, the Department of Insurance announced that 20 auto insurance companies, including many big-name companies, filed for rate decreases. Whether that’s spurred by tort reform legislation, a decrease in crashes, or both, Governor Landry says to take advantage, you need to do your part.

Cut 3 (05) “…giving rate decreases.”

Landry gave an example of when the husband of a state representative decided to shop his auto insurance premium.

Cut 4 (12) “…down another thousand.”

Landry says while you’re shopping for the best auto insurance rates, you might as well shop for the best homeowners insurance premiums too.

Cut 5 (13) “…I can do.”

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The Saints wrap up their preseason Saturday against the Broncos in the Superdome. The biggest storyline of the preseason has been the battle to become the starting quarterback. At this point, it’s down to second-year man Spencer Rattler and rookie Tyler Shough. Mike Hoss, the Saints’ play-by-play announcer on WWL radio, says at this point, the race is neck-and-neck.

Cut 6 (14) “…a pick-six.”

Starting quarterback isn’t the only unsettled competition. Hoss says there’s battle brewing for backup running back behind Alvin Kamara, who will not play Saturday.

Cut 7 (10) “…situation look like?”

Hoss says the Saints have been busy with trades this pre-season, and there are still many decisions to be made by the time the roster needs to be pared down to 53 by 3:00 p.m. Tuesday.

Cut 8 (16) “…has been injured.”

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Tragedy in Livingston Parish as a teenage boy is killed while riding his bike in his subdivision. Sheriff Jason Ard says the driver who hit the boy was very drunk.

Cut 9 (09)  “…in his system.”

Sheriff Ard says the driver, 31-year-old Juan Chavarria, is from Nicaragua. He fled the scene, but deputies later caught him and arrested him.

Cut 10 (13) “…DWI first offense.”

Ard says given the hour that this happened, visibility was not a factor.

Cut 11 (07) “…main cause here.”

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Louisiana farmers are producing a big corn crop this year, but producers are not getting a great price for that corn. LSU Ag Center Shelly Pate Kerns says the harvest will continue through August because acreage is up significantly…

Cut 12 (14) “…corn.”

Kerns says the crop received plenty of rain, so yields are expected to surpass last year’s 183 bushels per acre and input costs were also down…

Cut 13 (10)  “…constant rainfall.”

But Kerns says bushels of corn has fallen below four dollars, because of an abundance supply of corn on the global markets…

Cut 14 (12) “…shakeout differently.”

Walmart is recalling frozen shrimp sold from its stores after the FDA issues a warning that the shrimp is potentially radioactive. Don Molino has the story…

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Don Molino.”

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And now, a high-“steaks” case out of Livingston Parish. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Walmart is recalling frozen shrimp after the USDA issued a warning about possible radioactive contamination. Federal investigators say the contaminated shrimp is from an Indonesian firm and it was sold at Walmart stores in 13 states. Louisiana Shrimp Association president Acy Cooper is not surprised by the news…

Cut 3 (07) “…screaming it.”

Cooper says the United States fails to test most of the imported shrimp that comes into our country, so who knows if it’s safe. He says shrimp caught by Louisiana shrimpers does not have any banned chemicals

Cut 4 (06) “…lie to you.”

Cooper says radioactive frozen shrimp sold at Walmart could have been avoided if the U-S had a more robust testing protocol as the European Union…

Cut 5 (10) “…our industry.”

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Deputies in Rapides Parish arrest a man after getting a tip from a social media post that a man was trying to talk to kids at a bus stop in neighboring Vernon Parish. Deputies found 65-year-old Clyde Krider asleep at the wheel inside his van in Plainview yesterday and arrested him on a probation violation for being near kids as a level two sex offender. Tommy Carnline with the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office says the call came in at exactly the right time.  

Cut 6 (11) “…with this suspect.”

Carnline says especially with the new school year underway, now is a good time for parents to reset important safety rules with their kids.

Cut 7 (09) “…to their house.”

Carnline says while alerting the public about incidents like this on social media is good, it is not a substitute for contacting law enforcement.

Cut 8 (11) “…call law enforcement.”

Krider is behind bars in the Rapides Parish Detention Center.

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Where’s the beef? It was in his pants! That’s what the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office is saying when they arrested 57-year-old Michael Ardoin after finding hundreds of dollars worth of stolen meat products on him. Sheriff Jason Ard says Ardoin stole lean hamburger meat and ribeye steaks from a Walmart Neighborhood Market in Denham Springs.

Cut 9 (10)  “…type of items.”

Sheriff Ard says deputies were able to pull Ardoin over before he was able to get onto I-12 after getting some valuable information from the public.

Cut 10 (10) “…find this individual.”

Ard says even though deputies were able to recover the stolen meat, it does the Walmart no good.

Cut 11 (12) “…to destroy it.”

Ard says investigators are still putting the pieces together, but it appears that Walmart’s total loss could approach one-thousand dollars.

The Public Service Commission could vote today to approve an Entergy plant that would power a Meta data center in northeast Louisiana. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The good news – smoking is down in Louisiana. The bad news – alternatives are up. Jeff Palermo reports.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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There are only a few days left to purchase a raffle ticket to win season tickets to all of the major sports teams in Louisiana. Andre Champagne has more on the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation’s Premier Season Ticket raffle.

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

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The Public Service Commission may decide today whether to approve a power plant that Entergy is looking to build in northeast Louisiana that would power a massive Meta data center. The project has garnered a fair share of controversy. The Alliance for Affordable Energy is asking the commission to hold off on voting until October. Executive Director Logan Burke says the project will benefit one company, while everyone else gets to pay for it.

Cut 4 (13) “…in North Louisiana.”

But Commissioner Mike Francis says most stakeholders appear to be on board with the plan, so there’s no sense in delaying the inevitable. Francis says having the Meta data center will benefit everyone in the long run.

Cut 5 (09) “…for Entergy ratepayers.”

Burke says the Entergy power plant for the Meta data center has both short-term and long-term risks.

Cut 6 (14) “…ever asked for.”

Francis says Louisianans already benefit from some of the lowest energy costs in the country.

Cut 7 (08) “…in the country.”

The U.S. Department of Energy says in 2023, data centers consumed just shy of four and a half percent of all energy generated nationwide; it expects that number to jump to as high as 12-percent by 2028.

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Just like across the rest of the country, smoking continues to be on the decline in Louisiana. In 2023, the latest year that data is available, less than 16-percent of Louisiana adults surveyed admitted that they smoke. That’s down almost eight points from a decade ago. Chrishelle Stipe with the Louisiana Public Health Institute says it’s a sign that messaging about the dangers of smoking is working.

Cut 8 (08) “…across the state.”

Stipe says, however, that while cigarette smoking is down, other tobacco use is on the rise – especially among younger people.

Cut 9 (11)  “…electronic cigarette use.”

Stipe says other smoking alternatives, such as vaping, are also on the rise, so she says the outreach has to continue to evolve and to be aggressive.

Cut 10 (12) “…people stay healthy.”

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Crews are making good progress on the Backbone Fire in the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness Area in Natchitoches Parish. Jim Caldwell with the U.S. Forest Service says as of yesterday evening, the 24-hundred-acre fire was just under 60-percent contained.

Cut 11 (11) “…soon be out.”

Caldwell says there are no homes or structures threatened, and no one has been forced to evacuate.

Cut 12 (12) “…within that wilderness.”

Caldwell says fire personnel remain on the scene and are working to achieve full containment.

Cut 13 (13)  “…very good situation.”

The fire started on August 3rd, and it’s believed to have been caused by a lightning strike.

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The Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation launched its Premier Season Ticket raffle earlier this summer. The raffle offers one lucky fan the chance to win tickets to over 500 of South Louisiana’s top sporting events. Jay Cicero, the president and CEO of the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation, says the proceeds will help the foundation continue to host major events around the state.

Cut 14 (12) “…of Louisiana.”

The grand prize winner will receive two season tickets to 17 different events. The Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation’s unique raffle will help showcase New Orleans as a premier city for world-class sporting events. Cicero says the raffle helps bring so many special sporting moments to the state.

Cut 15 (13) “…to Louisiana.”

Recently, the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation hosted successful events including Super Bowl 59, UFC 318, the Xfinity U.S. Gymnastics National Championships at the Smoothie King Center and the NOLA Pickle Fest with Drew Brees. Cicero says that the raffle will help continue bring many more events.

Cut 16 (12) “…these

Go to the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation’s website to purchase a raffle ticket. The winner will be announced on Sunday night.

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LSU football is only ten days away from kicking off its season against Clemson on the East coast. Head coach Brian Kelly is still trying to find out who will be the starting five offensive linemen in the opener. Kelly says the position battle is starting to narrow down after the solidifying of three starters.

Cut 17 (17)  “…right tackle.”

LSU moved freshman offensive lineman Carius Curne over from guard to right tackle this week. The move came as a surprise after Ory Williams had served as the backup to Davis during most of fall camp. Kelly hinted at the possibility of Davis and Curne rotating in at right tackle in the same game.

Cut 18 (19) “…tackle position.”

LSU still has an ongoing position battle at left guard between Paul Mubenga, Coen Echols and DJ Chester. For most of fall camp, Chester took first-team snaps at left guard but recently has been moving around at both center and right tackle. Kelly says to expect more than the same five to rotate in on the entire unit when the season begins.

Cut 19 (19) “…as well.”

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Saints head coach Kellen Moore told the media that he is still not ready to make a decision on which quarterback would get the start in week one. Moore says he likes what he saw from both players’ performances against Jacksonville.

Cut 20 (19) “…their responsibilities.”