One of the Saints best defensive players in franchise history is not going anywhere anytime soon as he has a new contract that will allow him to retire as a member of the Black and Gold. Pierson Luscy has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Pierson Luscy” 

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Tonight’s MegaMillions jackpot is the second largest in the history of the game. Would you know what to do if you won? Jeff Palermo has some tips

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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Eight time pro bowler and three time all pro Cameron Jordan has agreed to a 2 year 27.5 million dollars extension with the New Orleans Saints.

Cut 3 (08) “…been here.”

Jordan is the Saints franchise all-time leader in sacks with 115.5, but made it clear that he only has one thing he wants before he ends his career.

Cut 4 (11) “of this deal.”

He also thinks it is completely possible to reach that ultimate goal after what he has seen in camp so far.

Cut 5 (14) “to their offense.”

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A dozen chefs from across the country will face off for the crown at the 2023 Great American Seafood Cook-off in the Crescent City tomorrow. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says every year chefs representing their state get to display their incredible talent and showcase their seafood creations…

Cut 6 (11)  “…to Louisiana.” 

The culinary showdown will be live-streamed with a celebrity panel of judges. Nungesser says the love and passion the chefs put into each dish is incredible…

Cut 7 (12)  “…Louisiana seafood.” 

2023 King of Louisiana Seafood winner Chef Owen Hohl of Hot Tails in Prairieville will represent the state this year.  Nungesser says the goal is to promote the quality and variety of domestic seafood found in the US.

Cut 8 (11)  “…these imports.” 

Opening ceremonies begin at 11:15 am Saturday.

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According to researchers, this year’s ‘Dead Zone’ in the northern Gulf of Mexico is the sixth smallest in 36 years. The decrease is due to water temperatures and low water flow on the Mississippi River. LSU Professor Nancy Rabalais says the waterway is moving less water and carrying fewer nutrients.

Cut 9 (10)  “…not stratified.”

The deadzone has shrunk nearly 3,000 square miles since July which is just over 13 times the size of Lake Pontchartrain, according to researchers. Rabalais says the flow of nitrogen in the river over the last two decades has resulted in less bottom water hypoxia.

Cut 10 (11)  “…action plan.”

The Environmental Protection Agency has made $60 million available for nutrient reduction projects through its Gulf Hypoxia Program – part of the 2022 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Rabalais says there remains a need for nutrient reduction to protect the health of the river and marine life.

Cut 11 (10)  “…the river”

Since records began in 1985, the largest dead zone was 8,776 square miles in 2017.

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Tonight’s MegaMillions jackpot is the second largest in the history of the game, at $1.35 Billion, with a cash value of $659.5 million. Dustin Annison with the Louisiana Lottery says jackpot fever in the Bayou State is as high as the temperatures outside…

Cut 12 (10) “…$3.9 million.” 

So, let’s pretend you did hit the jackpot after you catch your breath, what is the wisest course of action? Fred Dent with Dent Wealth Advisors says to sign the back of your ticket and take a high-resolution photo of both sides and put it in a secure place because it is a weekend.

Cut 13 (10) “…advantage.”

And with such a large jackpot Dent you want to put a portion of your winnings in a foundation so when you make donations to charities or other organizations you are doing so with the best tax advantage.

If you choose to take the cash value, Dent says if you have the discipline to invest it properly you might even do better versus taking the more than billion-dollar annuity.

Cut  14 (09)  “…over time.”

Annison says to sign your ticket after the purchase and even if you don’t hit all the numbers, you could still be a winner. He says just this current jackpot run alone there’s been one $20,000 winner and seven $10,000 winners in Louisiana.

Sungas Renewables officials say their proposed one-point-eight billion dollar plant they plan to build in Pineville will produce  a renewable low-carbon methanol that will help the shipping industry. Teiko Foxx has more

Cut 1 (30)  “I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Karma is bringing Taylor Swift back around to the Superdome in 2024. Brooke Thorington has all the details.

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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For years, teacher pay in Louisiana has lagged behind most of the other Southern states, but starting pay for a teacher in the Bayou State is among the highest in the South. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (33)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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SunGas Renewables CEO Robert Rigdon says building a $1.8 billion renewable low-carbon methanol site in Pineville at its Beaver Lake Renewable Energy facility will make a meaningful impact in producing clean energy. Rigdon says after inspecting several sites, this was the best location.

Cut 4 (11)  “…be outstanding.”

The project will produce nearly 400 thousand tons of green methanol every year. Green methanol is a low-carbon fuel that is made from carbon dioxide and wither biomass or renewable electricity. Rigdon says the low-carbon energy solution will help fuel a better world.

Cut 5 (11)   “…of choice.”

The state has prepared competitive incentives that includes a $6 million performance-based grant for infrastructure improvements. Rigdon says there are currently in phase two of the project and hope to be in the final phase by the fourth quarter before full construction.

Cut 6 (13)  “…that process.”

The company expects to make a final investment decision in August 2024.

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The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission approves new catch limits for the speckled trout because there’s been a decline in the overall size of the popular recreational fish. LDWF Assistant Secretary Patrick Banks says he’s pleased the commission approved a measure…

Cut 7 (06) “…very, very close.”

Under the plan approved, anglers would only be allowed to catch a speckled trout that’s more than 13 inches long. The maximum size allowed is 20 inches and only two fish above that limit are allowed. Also, the total catch per angler per day would go from 25 fish to 15. Banks says this conservation plan is needed…

Cut 8 (07) “…concerned.”

Banks says the public will have the opportunity to comment on the plan and legislators could prevent it from going into effect.

Cut 9 (12)  “…wanna go”

Banks says if there are no hold-ups, it could take effect as early as November and they’ll look at it again in 2028.

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Taylor Swift fans can’t seem to calm down after the announcement she’s adding a stop in New Orleans on The Eras Tour 2024. When her 2023 dates were announced New Orleans was noticeably missing.  General Manager of the Caesars Superdome Evan Holmes says construction was the problem that kept her from appearing this year, but when another leg was added…

Cut 10 (06) “…real excited.”

It was 2018 when she last performed in New Orleans, but karma is bringing her back around and she’ll play not one, not two, but three nights in Crescent City the weekend before Halloween. Holmes says if you’re trying to get tickets…

Cut 11 (11)  “…scalpers.”

2024 is shaping up to be a big year for the Superdome, it will be The Dome’s 50^th birthday, renovations should be completed, and with Taylor Swift appearing three nights in a row, Homles says they’ll be ready for it.

Cut 12 (08)   “…for us.” 

You can find a link to pre-register for tickets at Louisiana-Radio-Network-dot-com.

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A recent study on teacher salaries finds starting pay for Louisiana teachers is among the highest in the South, but yet overall pay for teachers is among the lowest. Council for a Better Louisiana President Barry Erwin says public school teacher salaries do not grow very much over time…

Cut 13 (12) “…to stay.” 

Erwin says the data shows that the average salary growth potential for teachers in Louisiana is the second lowest in the region, ahead of only Alabama. He says in most cases the difference is only about 10 thousand dollars a year between a first-year teacher and a 20-year veteran…

Cut 14 (10)  “…conversation.” 

Erwin says salary hikes on a percentage basis instead of across-the-board pay raises is one way to address this situation…

Cut 15 (08)  “…in play.”

Erwin says local school systems also need to offer differential pay mechanisms to address hard-to-fill positions and reward high-performing teachers.

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Head football coach Brian Kelly addressed the media after their first fall practice on Thursday. Kelly is entering his second year with the team and is expecting to build off last year’s success.

Cut 16 (09) “…to build upon.”

The team heard some unfortunate news recently that defensive line coach Jimmy Lindsey. Lindsey has stepped away from the team due to a health issue and a timetable on his return is unknown.

Cut 17  (15) “…the immediate here.”

Kelly recently changed the team’s injury update protocol to limit the questions from the media on the status of players. Kelly does not think this results in a competitive disadvantage even though he is putting out more information on players’ health than most teams.

Cut 18 (10) “…what you expect.”

A federal jury finds a white state police trooper not guilty of depriving Aaron Bowman, a black man, of his civil rights during a violent arrest in 2019. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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The Republican Party of Louisiana endorses Liz Murrill in the Attorney General’s Race. Brooke Thorington has more…

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

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State Police have charged 23-year-old Vonteeko Anderson with first degree murder in the shooting death of Ville Platte City Marshal Barry Giglio. Giglio and other law enforcement officers were executing a search warrant on a known drug house in Ville Platte on Monday night when gun fire rang out. State Trooper Thomas Gossen says Anderson was taken into custody that night and booked on drug and weapon charges

Cut 3 (05) “…yesterday” 

There were four people inside the Beauregard Street home when officers arrived with a search warrant. Gossen says their investigation has determined Anderson shot at the police…

Cut 4 (04)  “…city marshal” 

Two women were also inside the home. One of them was shot and at last report was in the hospital. An 18-year-old woman was also at the home, but was not shot. She was in custody after the shooting, but was released as L-S-P did not bring charges against her.

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Minden city officials say the citywide power outage to repair the Entergy Gilark substation damaged by a fire over the weekend is set for 10 pm tonight. Mayor Nick Cox says the plan includes setting up a temporary bypass to allow Entergy crews to make the repairs.

Cut 5 (12)  “…with power.”

Cox says Entergy has been working on a plan to reduce the length of the outage to lessen the inconvenience for residents and businesses with the heat. He says the outage is expected to last up to six hours.

Cut 6 (11)  “…the past.” 

Cox asks residents for their patience and understanding…

Cut 7 (09)  “…no doubt.” 

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Office of State Parks unveils new attractions and upgrades to Bogue Chitto State Park with a ribbon cutting in Franklinton. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says you have to think regionally so you can compete globally to attract visitors.

Cut 8 (12)  “…state park.” 

In addition to upgrades, the 2,000-acre site also added kids’ pump tracks, a bike repair area, and a new restroom. Nungesser says there’s also an award-winning mountain bike trail to cater to bike enthusiasts…

Cut 9 (10)  “…the country.”

Nungesser hopes the upgrades showcase the site and bring people across the nation and abroad to the Bayou State.

Cut 10 (10)  “…all interests.”

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The peak of the hurricane season arrives in a couple of the weeks and today Colorado State University hurricane forecast team updated its forecast for the rest of the season. Researcher Angelie Nieves-Jimenez says they are still calling for 18 named storms, which means an active season, despite an El Nino…

Cut 11 (08)  “…it would be”

An El Nino weather condition can help suppress hurricane activity.  But Nieves-Jimenez says warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures can neutralize the effects of an El Nino and result in an above-average season…

Cut 12 (05) “…the moment” 

18 named storms includes the five named storms that have already formed, including the unnamed storm in January. C-S-U is also predicting nine hurricanes and four major hurricanes and Nieves-Jimenez says how strong the El Nino will be, will play a big role with these projections…

Cut 13 (09) “…late August”

After running half a mile in the dark to help save her grandfather, an eight-year-girl earns the title of hero. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The state launches a new campaign to encourage Louisianans to get vaccinated to reverse declining vaccination rates, especially in the Northeast region. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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A Tulane study finds the more you drink, the greater the effect on your blood pressure. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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An eight-year-old girl in Franklin Parish is being regaled as a hero after saving her grandfather’s life Tuesday night. Sheriff Kevin Cobb says the two were thrown from a four-wheeler and the 83-year-old was pinned underneath in a canal. Alli Glass knew to prop his head up to keep him from drowning and went for help.

Cut 4 (07)  “…a bind.”

Thanks to Alli’s courageousness first responders arrived and her grandfather is on the mend. Cobb says they are all amazed such a young girl knew what to do and there’s no one prouder than her grandfather.

Cut 5 (06)   “…type tears.”

Cobb says her grandfather is also extremely thankful that Alli didn’t get hurt after running more than half a mile to get help.

Cut 6 (09)  “…him help.”

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The state Office of Public Health is launching Operation Immunization, an initiative to address the importance of immunizations and reverse the downward trend in vaccinations among minors, especially in Northeast Louisiana. OPH Regional 8 Medical Director Tonya Hunter encourages parents to prioritize vaccinations as children begin a new school year.

Cut 7 (12) “…to school.”

Nine of the 12 parishes in northeast Louisiana have lower-than-average vaccination rates for children at the age of two. Hunter says all 12 parishes are below the statewide average for adult flu vaccinations. She says post-pandemic, Louisianans have to rethink the importance of vaccines…

Cut 8 (10) “…diseases.”

Small white flags will be placed along roadsides throughout the Monroe area to serve as a reminder to update vaccinations. Hunter says raising immunization rates is the goal the public should get behind…

Cut 9 (09)  “…we can.”

You can find information about recommended vaccinations at immunizations.la.gov.

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Acadian Ambulance is recruiting students for its National EMS Academy which provides credentials for EMTs and paramedics in the face of workforce shortages. Director of Operations in LA and MS Porter Taylor says there are plenty of opportunities in different divisions for EMTs and paramedics…

Cut 10 (10) “…are divisions”

Acadian have training sites in Louisiana, Texas, and Mississippi. In Louisiana, training sites include Houma, New Orleans, Lafayette, Covington, Lake Charles, and Alexandria. Taylor says paramedic students can choose their level of coursework…

Cut 11 (12)  “…fourteen months.”

Although first responders must be 18 to work and pass a certified test, Taylor says they can start training in high school…

Cut 12 (11)   “…EMT class” 

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A new study finds a correlation between consuming alcohol and high blood pressure. Co-author of the study Dr. Paul Whelton at Tulane University says the observational study of 20-thousand participants conducted over a 24-year period found a direct connection and even one beer a day can increase your BP.

Cut 13 (06) “…linear relationship.” 

Whelton says the findings aren’t terribly surprising, the more you drink the more your blood pressure increases.

Cut 14 (09)  “…as that.” 

In case you’re wondering if wine has less of an impact than liquor, Whelton says when it comes to alcohol…

Cut 15 (09)  “…spirits, etc.”

The full study is published in the American Heart Association’s journal Hypertension.

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The Ragin Cajuns begin fall practice today with three quarterbacks competing for playing time. Chandler Fields opened last season as the starting QB, and redshirt freshman Zeon Chriss got a lot of the snaps in the spring, but Coach Michael Desormeaux says Ben Wooldridge is healthy after tearing his A-C-L last season and will get snaps with the first team…

Cut 16 (16) “…he is physically.”

The Ragin Cajuns finished with a losing record last year going six and seven. Desormeaux says they lost three games by six points or less. He says the goal is not to blow games they controlled for three quarters…

Cut 17  (23) fix those” 

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At ULM, senior Jiya Wright begins fall camp as the starting quarterback but coach Terry Bowden likes the depth that he has at that position…

Cut 18 (15) “…that position.” 

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Th Saints are a week into training camp and new staring quarterback Derek Carr is entering his tenth season in the league and he feels more in touch with the game than ever.

Cut 19 (19) “…installs grow.” 

Carr is considered a veteran in the NFL, but that does not bode the same for arguably the most important position besides the quarterback. The left tackle spot has been up in the air since Terron Armstead left in free agency, and the Saints have looked to replace him with Trevor Penning. Even though Penning does not have as much experience as the rest of the offensive line, Carr has faith in the people that put him there.

Cut 20 (10)  “…they’ve proven it.”  

The state department of education says LEAP scores for third through 12th graders are up for a second consecutive year. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Pro bass angler Jake Ormond of Sterlington set a new state record for the largest longnose gar ever caught. Kace Kieschnick has the story…

Cut 2 (34)  “….I’m Kace Kieschnick.”  

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State education officials say LEAP scores have improved for a second consecutive year. The latest results show a two-point jump from last year  in the percentage of students considered proficient. State Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley says that means 33-percent of students are scoring at the mastery rate or above…

Cut 3 (12) “…work to do.” 

Brumley says for a state that struggles with literacy, he’s pleased to see the mastery rate for third graders in English Language Arts improved five points over last year to 43 for 2023….

Cut 4 (07)  “…2017-2018” 

Brumley says it’s also encouraging to see last year’s third graders showed strong improvement in English Language Arts as fourth graders.

He says high school students improved in five out of six subject areas…

Cut 5 (13)  “…with a three percent increase.”

Brumley says U-S history scores declined, but Louisiana is implementing a more rigorous set of social studies standars, called the Freedom Framework, which will be in place for the upcoming school year.

Seventy-five percent of Louisiana school systems improved during the 2022-23 school year.

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Bass pro Jake Ormond set a state record for the largest longnose gar which he caught on Bayou Bartholomew. The Sterlington native was giving a young student a lesson when he spotted the big gar on the surface of the water. After switching rods, it took Ormond three casts to hook the big fish…

Cut 6 (10)  “…too long.” 

Ormond says he didn’t know it was a state record just the biggest longnose gar he’d ever seen. He trolled the fish back, pulled it up on the ramp and tied it up. A quick google search told him the state record was a 30.88 pound gar and Ormond thought he was close…

Cut 7 (08)  “…hit thirty-one.” 

Ormond began making calls to local stores trying to find a set of certified scales, but the scales either didn’t go above thirty pounds or the store wouldn’t let him bring it in the store. He found the biggest cooler he could and put his catch on ice before finally finding K&M Coffee and Camo in Farmerville…

Cut 8 (12)  “…inches long.” 

The fish was just over 31 pounds and 65.5 inches long.

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A three-vehicle crash in Assumption Parish yesterday morning claimed the life of a Houma woman and her unborn child. Trooper Ross Brennan says 23-year-old Tia Gorrell was traveling north on Highway 308 when she was hit by a 2014 Jeep Wrangler…

Cut 9 (09)  “…the Toyota.”

The investigation revealed the 2014 Jeep Wrangler was driven by 38-year-old Kendall Dollar. A toxicology sample is pending on Dollar however, Brennan says the driver of the RAM was not suspected of being impaired…

Cut 10 (09)  “…this time.”

There have been 15 fatal crashes in the Troop C area resulting in 17 fatalities.

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It’s another day of oppressive heat in the Bayou State. We asked State Climatologist Barry Keim what is causing it and if there is any relief in sight. He says a ridge of high pressure continues to hover over the southeast, it moves in and hangs around for about a week baking the area with triple-digit temperatures.

Cut 11 (09)  “…things down.”

Keim says the ridge of high pressure eventually moves along but unfortunately, it’s replaced with another right behind it.

It’s been one of the worst summers on record for heat. Keim says when you look at New Orleans weather data for the first six months of 2023, it’s the warmest of any year on record.

Cut 12 (10) “…yesterday.” 

He says the 104 high temp August 1^st in the capital city ranks in the top seven for hottest days ever.

Usually along the coastline, moisture from the Gulf will cycle through and cool things down, but Keim says we’re in a rut with the dome of high pressure. And in that dome is a constant downward motion of hot air.

Cut 13 (12) “…case scenario.”

Keim says the dome of high pressure keeps thunderstorms that could cool things down away. Along the coast, he says the moisture is there but it’s unable to get vertical motion needed for clouds to produce rain.

Drug dealers caught with fentanyl will now face stiffer penalties thanks to a new law that went into effect on August first. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Legislation that prohibits the creation of explicit content using an individual’s likeness without their knowledge or approval went into effect on August 1st. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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US Senator Bill Cassidy’s endorsement of Jeff Landry for governor may help him get back in the good graces of the Republican Party. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (33)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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If you’re caught dealing fentanyl in Louisiana, you could face up to life in prison now. The stiffer penalties went into effect August 1^st and bill author Crowley Representative John Stefanski believes it sends a strong message to drug dealers.

Cut 4 (11)  “…fentanyl distribution.”

Individuals with less than 28 grams of detectable fentanyl face five to 40 years in prison. More than 28 grams for a first offense, seven to 40 years. A second offense is 30 to 40 years.  Stefanski says for a third offense it’s life in prison without parole.

Cut 5 (10)   “…twenty-five years.”

The leading cause of death for 18 to 45-year-olds is fentanyl and Stefanski says to reduce the number of deaths it’s a two-prong approach. Rehabilitation for addicts and putting dealers behind bars. The new law hopes to put dealers out of business.

Cut 6 (10)  “…stop doing it.”

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A new law that makes it illegal to create and distribute deepfakes depicting someone engaging in pornographic acts without their consent, especially minors went into effect Tuesday. Senator Jeremy Stine says this type of material is used for revenge porn or fraud and causes harm to the victims involved…

Cut 7 (09) “…picture of.”

Louisiana has become one of the first states to pass legislation explicitly criminalizing the creation of deep fake child sexual abuse material. Violators will face stiff penalties. Stine says when a violation involves a child…

Cut 8 (10) “…in Louisiana.”

Stine says perpetrators could also be fined no less than ten thousand dollars. He says this is a safeguard against potential abuse of technology…

Cut 9 (09)  “…in Louisiana.”

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Bill Cassidy’s endorsement of Jeff Landry for Governor could help Louisiana’s senior U-S Senator score political points with the Republican Party. LSU Shreveport Political Science Professor Jeff Sadow says Cassidy has fallen out of favor with some Republicans and the state G-O-P party strongly supports Landry…

Cut 10 (10) “…left behind”

The state GOP censured Cassidy after he voted to certify President Joe Biden’s electoral college victory and then the Baton Rouge Republican voted against former President Donald Trump in his impeachment trial. Sadow says Cassidy is up for re-election in 2026 and knows he needs the state GOP on his side…

Cut 11 (08)  “…for re-election.”

Current Louisiana Republican Congressman Garret Graves, Mike Johnson, and Clay Higgins have been rumored as potential challengers to Cassidy in 2026. If Landry is elected as governor, Sadow says Cassidy does not want a Republican governor who may oppose his re-election efforts……

Cut 12 (12)   “…same team” 

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The LSU football team reports for fall camp today with high expectations after winning ten games and an SEC West title last year. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne says the ceiling should be high, considering the playmakers LSU has on offense…

Cut 13 (12) “…in the country.” 

Horne also returns four starters on the offensive line and the defensive line should also be strong with the return of Maason Smith from injury. He says there are concerns about LSU’s defensive secondary, which returns just two starters, Major Burns and Greg Brooks…

Cut 14 (09)  “…in camp.” 

Many LSU fans believe the Tigers can be national title contenders and follow in the footsteps of Kim Mulkey and Jay Johnson, who won in their second year. Kelly has tried to tap down on expectations, but Horne says the players in the locker room plan on playing for a national championship…

Cut 15 (14)  “…this year.”

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The Saints are continuing training camp and all pro wide receiver Michael Thomas is looking to make his return after an injury last year sat him out for most of the season. Thomas will be catching passes from a new face this year, that being former Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr. Thomas says how he already impacted the offense after a short time with the team.

Cut 16 (14) “…his job easier.”

The Saints offense has made a flurry of roster moves in preparation for the new season including the acquisition of many new offensive players. Thomas says that he has confidence in the new-look group.

Cut 17  (11) tremendous group.” 

US Senator Bill Cassidy is the latest Republican to back Jeff Landry in the governor’s race. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

______________________________________

Gas prices are on the rise again with the average price for a gallon of regular gas statewide at $3.36 up by fifteen cents compared to last week. Teiko Foxx explains…

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”  

______________________________________

US Senator Bill Cassidy officially endorses Attorney General Jeff Landry for Governor. Landry is the perceived front-runner in the race and is one of five Republicans who’ve declared their intent to run. Cassidy issued his support this morning.

Cut 3 (08) “…of the state.” 

University of Louisiana Monroe political science professor Pearson Cross believes other Republicans will follow suit and begin to announce their support of Landry.

Cut 4 (12)  “…unchecked.” 

Cassidy says Landry, like himself, is fighting to make flood insurance more affordable.

Cut 5 (11)  “…paying jobs.”

And Cassidy says Landry also agrees the state must increase access to mental health services.

Cross says the momentum for Landry continues to grow he believes after the October 14^th primary that Landry will be in a runoff against the lone Democrat in the race, Shawn Wilson.

Cut 6 (09)  “…fundraising.” 

We’ll find out on August 10th if any of the seven formidable candidates drop out of the gubernatorial race. Qualifying is next week, August 8-10.

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Despite a decrease in demand, the cost of gasoline in the Bayou State jumped up fifteen cents since last week. Today’s statewide average price for a gallon of regular gasoline is $3.36 according to AAA. Fuel analyst Don Redman says crude prices and other factors are pushing prices higher.

Cut 7 (11)  “…weakening supply.” 

Crude oil prices were down at 67 dollars a barrel last month. Redman says oil-producing countries recently agreed to hold back oil production on crude driving prices higher.

Cut 8 (11)  “…the market.” 

Redman says the current average is less than this time last year’s price at $3.89. He says scorching temperatures have forced refineries to slow down and motorists to travel less…

Cut 9 (12)  “…the heat.”

_______________________________________________

The National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning for most of north and southeast Louisiana. The warning is in effect from 10:00 today to 7:00 this evening in southeast Louisiana and 11:00-8:00 in north Louisiana. Meteorologist Aaron Davis says residents within the warning area will experience downright oppressive temperatures…

Cut 10 (10)  “…some areas.”

The National Weather Service has not issued any warnings for the rest of the week but Davis says they’re evaluating whether one may be necessary tomorrow as well. It doesn’t look like relief will be coming anytime soon…

Cut 11 (08)  “…into the weekend.”

Louisiana has experienced an uncharacteristically dry summer and it looks like that trend will continue. Davis says North Louisiana and east Texas are already in severe drought conditions and rainfall isn’t expected…

Cut 12 (11) “…and thunderstorms” 

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The City of Minden will soon be without power as a citywide blackout is planned to repair damage to an Entergy substation due to an early morning fire Sunday. Mayor Nick Cox says there was major damage to the transformer that connects to the power grid…

Cut 13 (12) “…on fire.”

Entergy and AEP currently are working to plan a timeline for the controlled outage. Cox says the major issue right now is his concern for residents dealing with the heat. He disputes any current rumors on timelines and advises residents to look out for official communications through social media and local radio for updates…

Cut  14 (12)  “…to us.”

Officials are working with the Webster Parish Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness to establish relief for residents during the outage. Cox says preparation is underway for possible challenges that may come about during this time.

Cut 15 (09) “…we’re ready.”

One legislator is calling for more transparency and oversite into the third party vendor OMV data breach. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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If you have blue tarp on your house because of previous damage to your roof, the Louisiana Housing Corporation has a Blue Tarp Roofing Repair Program that can result in a new roof. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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With election season right around the corner, are you ready for an onslaught of text messages from the candidates? Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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After the data breach involving a third party vendor used by the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles last month, the OMV is offering a free year of Life Lock credit monitoring to those impacted. But Leesville Representative Chuck Owen believes the incident warrants legislative oversite.

Cut 4 (09)  “…the administration.”

Owen says at this time he only knows what information was released to the public about the data breach and he admits he hasn’t reached out directly to OMV for more information. He says he’d like to know the types of data that were stolen…

Cut 5 (09)   “…to expect.”

A decision on whether to call for an oversite committee into the matter is left to the Speaker of the House. Owen believes the breach could fall under the scope of existing committees either Homeland Security or Transportation, or a special committee could be merited as well.

Cut 6 (11)  “…the future.”

For more information about the data breach, you can visit nextsteps.la.gov.

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Louisiana Housing Corporation (LHC) expands the 2023 Blue Tarp Fund Roofing Repair Program waitlist for those with roof damage who did not apply in February. LHC Executive Director Joshua Hollins says with additional funding will help cover parishes beyond the capital region…

Cut 7 (12) “…few years.”

The program guidelines require homeowners to meet low-income requirements of 80 percent of the area median income or lower. Hollins says the home must be their primary residence and purchased a year prior to the assistance. He says certain groups of applicants will be placed at the top of the list…

Cut 8 (06) “…the home.”

Since February, LHC has been able to award nearly 150 applicants with new roofs in Ascension, East Baton Rouge, Iberville, Livingston, and West Baton Rouge Parishes. Hollins hopes this is the beginning of a commitment to help communities recover and rebuild after disasters

Cut 9 (12)  “…storm damage”

Blue Tarp Program awards will be awarded on a first come first served basis and will be subject to funding availability. Homeowners can apply at lhc.la.gov/bluetarp.

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Construction for a new warehouse for Second Harvest Food Bank in Houma will get underway in August. The 17,000-square-foot facility will allow the agency to better serve Grand Isle along with Terrebonne, Lafourche, and St. Mary parishes. Second Harvest President Natali Jayroe…

Cut 10 (10) “…in operation.”

The new warehouse will also contain a 3,400-square-foot community kitchen in the future that will be able to serve up to 3,000 meals daily.

Second Harvest currently operates out of three warehouses and serves the southern portion of the state, from Mississippi to Texas. Jayroe says after Katrina they opened a facility in Lafayette, and they hope to have a total of four after the expansion.

Cut 11 (09)  “…resilient hubs.”

Jayroe says they’ll do some economic development with the hubs, they’ll be outfitted for local farmers to be able to process their crops. The hubs will also house emergency workers…

Cut 12 (08)   “…neighbors” 

A groundbreaking ceremony for the new warehouse is scheduled for August 29^th.

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Louisiana’s gubernatorial candidates are using text messaging as another way to reach out to voters. You may have received a text message from Sharon Hewitt, Richard Nelson, Stephen Waguespack or one of the other candidates. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan…

Cut 13 (11) “…name recognition” 

Hogan says even campaigns that do not have a lot cash can use text messages as a way to reach out to voters…

Cut 14 (08)  “…less costly.” 

Hogan says text messages from candidates can also backfire on them as it might anger potential voters…

Cut 15 (11)  “…from campaigns.”

The FCC says political text messages can be sent without permission as long as the sender does not use autodialing technology.

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The Saints begin their first full week of training camp today and it’s still a little surreal seeing tight end Jimmy Graham back on the practice field and wearing Black and Gold. Graham signed with the Saints last week re-joining a franchise that drafted him in 2010, but traded him to Seattle in 2015…

Cut 16 (20) “..this city” (2x)

After four straight seasons of 85 catches or more, Graham says he was shocked and also hurt by the trade to the Seahawks…

Cut 17 (21) “…for me.”

Graham admits he didn’t do many media interviews in Seattle, because he didn’t want talk about the Saints trading him. After three years with the Seahawks, two years in in Green Bay, and two years in Chicago, Graham is now hoping to make the Black and Gold a Super Bowl contender again….

Cut 18 (21) “…my career” 

If you thought this past week was hot, weather officials say next week’s temperatures will be stunningly awful. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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Students who received reduced prices meals at school in Louisiana are now able to have them for free. Brooke Thorington explains…

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

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The MegaMillions Multistate Lottery Jackpot is approaching $1 billion dollars, that’s a billion with a “B.” The $910 million prize is one of the largest in U.S. lottery history. Dustin Annison with the Louisiana Lottery says tonight’s jackpot has a cash value of $464.2 million.

Cut 3 (06) “…US history.” 

Annison says sales in Louisiana through this MegaMillions Jackpot run that began on April 19th are more than $12.9 million.

Cut 4 (07)  “…like this.” 

To be eligible for tonight’s drawing you must purchase your ticket by 9 PM. And if you don’t have all the winning numbers on your ticket Annison says don’t toss it aside too quickly…

Cut 5 (12)  “…to be won.”

You can check your ticket on the Louisiana Lottery App on your smartphone or take it to one of the vendors and have it reviewed there also.

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Temperatures are expected to reach triple digits once again baking the Bayou State starting this weekend. State Climatologist Barry Keim says there’s no true insight into the dome of high pressure that has parked itself over the south.

Cut 6 (10)  “… unusual setup.” 

Dangerous heat with peak index values of 102-104 degrees is forecasted for Shreveport and Monroe. Keim says the state will see oppressive heat indices…

Cut 7 (10)  “…at times.” 

This stretch of hot weather will continue well into next week across the state. Keim urges everyone not to spend a lot of time outdoors when the heat index hits dangerous triple digits.

Cut 8 (11)  “…of yourself.” 

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Louisiana students who received reduced-price lunches and breakfast will be able to get those meals at no cost now thanks to Marrero Representative Kyle Green’s legislation. Green says because Louisiana is such an impoverished state there’s a great need to also provide meals to these 7,000 students.

Cut 9 (11)  “…the classroom.”

Providing additional free meals will cost the state about $859,000. Green says it’s an investment in the education of students because you can’t learn on an empty stomach. He says another benefit of the bill is to end the practice of lunch shaming in schools.

Cut 10 (12)  “…of substance.”

Green, who’s running for re-election, says this is just the beginning. He plans to introduce legislation in the future to expand the program to include all students.

Cut 11 (06)  “…well spent.”

Green credits the Louisiana Budget Project for helping him get the legislation across the finish line this legislative session.

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Former LSU Baseball Coach Paul Mainieri will be inducted into the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame tomorrow night during a ceremony in Natchitoches. Mainieri coached at LSU for 15 seasons and won four SEC regular season titles and six SEC Tournament championships. He led the Tigers to a national title in 2009…

Cut 12 (09) “…talent” 

Mainieri and two-time Super Bowl champion quarterback Eli Manning highlight the 2023 induction class, which also includes former LSU wide receiver Wendell Davis and former Tulane star Matt Forte (For-tay). Forte was a consistent running back in the NFL, rushing for nearly 10-thousand yards and caught over 500 passes…

Cut 13 (12) “…I had.”

Also going into the Hall is women’s basketball great Alana Beard. She scored over 26-hundred points at Duke and won a W-N-B-A Championship with the Los Angeles Sparks in 2016. But she says it all started at Southwood High School in Shreveport and playing for legendary coach Steve McDowell….

Cut  14 (12)  “…my life.”

Louisiana Public Broadcasting will livestream Saturday night’s induction ceremonies.

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SunGas Renewables will build a $2-billion green manufacturing facility in Central Louisiana. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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With football season starting up again, sports betting will also be picking up. Michelle Southern has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Michelle Southern.”

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The Louisiana Pardon Board has returned the clemency applications filed by death row inmates hoping Governor John Bel Edwards would commute their sentence to life without parole. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The announcement of a green manufacturing facility coming to central Louisiana is welcome news.  SunGas Renewables will build a $2 billion facility in Pineville at the former International Paper Mill site. Louisiana Central President and CEO Jim Clinton says facility construction will create more than a thousand jobs.

Cut 4 (09)  “…indirect jobs.”

Pineville Mayor Rich Dupree says it’s a huge announcement for Central Louisiana and the City of Pineville for a piece of property he says has been dormant for close to 14 years.  He says SunGas Renewables is a $2-billion investment for the area…

Cut 5 (12)   “…marine fuels.”

It will be used by Denmark-based Maersk, the second-largest container shipping company in the world.

Dupree says landing SunGas Renewables is a collaborative effort among several organizations and the existing infrastructure and ports make the location ideal for the green methanol production facility.

Cut 6 (07)  “…this manufacturer.”

Construction is expected to begin in 2024 and the facility should open in 2027.

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Louisiana Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Johns says Louisiana ranks top ten nationally for the amount of money wagered in legalized sports betting based on population size. Johns says they saw a bump in June thanks to LSU’s run to a College World Series championship…

Cut 7 (09) “…last year.”

The state received one point seven million dollars in tax revenue for sports betting for the month. Sports betting became legal in 2022 and Johns says it’s been a popular activity for many….

Cut 8 (11) “…of Louisiana.”

Twenty-five percent of the tax revenue from sports betting goes towards early childhood education, ten percent goes to local government and Johns says the rest goes to other projects and gambling addition programs…

Cut 9 (10)  “…advocated for”

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Alexandria Republican Representative Lance Harris announces his candidacy for District 5 of the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education. Harris is term-limited and has served the last two years as chair of the House Education Committee.

Cut 10 (11) “…educational issues.”

Harris referred to his experience with transparency and accountability for education and his efforts with parents’ rights in school systems.

Among the issues, Harris says he’ll focus on if elected is workforce development and improving literacy rates.

Cut 11 (12)  “…programs.”

Harris also believes the state needs to be more proactive in recruiting and retaining certified teachers in Louisiana. He says that includes compensation and reducing the burden placed on teachers.

Cut 12 (11)   “…that correction.” 

Current board member Ashley Ellis, who’s not seeking re-election, has endorsed Harris to be her successor.

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The Louisiana Pardon Board has decided to return the clemency applications from 56 death row inmates hoping Governor Edwards would reduce their sentence to life in prison. Louisiana District Attorneys Association Director Loren Lampert says if the Pardon Board took up these petitions they would violate their own rules

Cut 13 (10) “…must be changed.” 

The rules say the Pardon Board can consider clemency petitions from death row inmates if the application was made within one year of their final appeal or if an execution date is approaching.

But the director of the Louisiana Capital Appeals Project, Cecelia Kappel, says what the Louisiana Pardon Board did is unprecedented. She says the board has a history of waiving its rules so death penalty clemency applications are heard

Cut 14 (08)  “…procedural grounds.” 

The Louisiana Capital Appeals Project filed the applications for clemency after Governor John Bel Edwards announced his opposition to the death penalty. Kappel says the governor still has the authority to direct the Louisiana Pardon Board to review the cases

Cut 15 (08)  “…does so.”

But Lampert believes the Pardon Board’s decision to return the clemency petitions puts an end to any hope that these death row inmates can have their death sentences commuted to life in prison without parole. He says even the governor is powerless in this situation…

Cut 16 (11) “…that is no.”

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For the Saints to get back to the playoffs, new starting quarterback Derek Carr will need to have a big year. Carr has been learning the offense since he signed his four-year deal with New Orleans in March and the vet understands the importance of his role…

Cut 17 (20) “…here to do.”

During the first day of training camp, Carr finally got to throw passes to wide receiver Michael Thomas during seven-on-seven drills. The Saints’ new Q-B has a lot of respect for Thomas…

Cut 18 (21) “…done the work.” 

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Anticipation is building for the LSU football season as the Tigers are set to report next week. Everyone always looks forward to seeing the newcomers, but Coach Brian Kelly told the Baton Rouge Rotary Club there are guys that have been on the roster for a while that are ready for a breakout season…

Cut 19 (21) “…make impacts.” 

SEC games are won in the trenches and Kelly likes what he has on the offensive and defensive lines….

Cut 20 (21)  “…outstanding player.”