LSU makes history as for the first time two players from the same school are the first two picks in the Major League Baseball draft.  Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Legislation to increase the tax break for parents whose children attend private school has been signed by the governor. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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Paul Skenes is the first LSU player to be selected number one in the Major League Baseball draft since Ben McDonald in 1989. The Pittsburgh Pirates used their top overall pick on Skenes, who features a 100-mile per hour fastball and a wipe out slider

Cut 3 (11) “….this position” 

Skenes says he was in shock when Pittsburgh called him and told him they were taking him with the number one overall pick…

Cut 4 (09)  “…in Pittsburgh” 

The Washington Nationals selected LSU center fielder Dylan Crews with the second overall pick. Crews says he followed the Nats as a kid as he followed former number one overall pick Bryce Harper…

Cut 5 (11)  “…as him.”

It’s the first time high school or college teammates were selected one-two in the Major League Baseball draft.

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St. Tammany Parish Deputies have arrested 25-year-old Malik Morris of Memphis, Tennessee for allegedly burglarizing five restaurants in the Covington area. Spokesperson Suzanne Carboni says after a brief pursuit, the driver abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot.

Cut 6 (11)  “…a neighborhood” 

Following a brief foot pursuit, the suspect was taken into custody. Carboni says the police chase begin Saturday afternoon on Highway 190 when a deputy tried to pull over Morris’s box truck that was used in the burglaries…

Cut 7 (11)  “…medical assistance” 

Morris was also charged with possession of a stolen firearm and vehicular negligent injury. Carboni says Morris may also be tied to other burglaries in the parish…

Cut 8 (12)  “…those agencies” 

Morris was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center. The investigation is ongoing.

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Beginning next year parents who send their kids to private school will receive an increase of $5,000 to $6,000 tax break per child in Louisiana. The governor signed the legislation that Metairie Representative Laurie Schlegel authored.

Cut 9 (09)  “…their taxes.”

The current deduction costs the state about $22-millon annually and that will increase to $24.2 million in 2024. Schlegel says the tax credit actually saves the state half a billion annually. When the bill was before Senate Revenue during the session Pineville Senator Jay Luneau questioned Schlegel about how the additional $1,000 tax credits will impact the state budget.

Cut 10 (10)  “…taxpayers.”

The $5,000 tax break was added in 2008 and Schlegel says parents who send their child to private school pay on average $7,200 a year and considering inflation the tax break should increase. DeRidder Senator Mike Reese also asked how the loss of additional funds will impact the state’s budget but agreed with the bill’s intent.

Cut 11 (11)  “…them there.”

The $1,000 increase is the first since the break’s creation 15 years ago.

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A street racing sting by multiple Baton Rouge law enforcement agencies resulted in 26 vehicles towed and a total of 30 citations over the weekend. Spokesperson L’Jean McKneely says they learned the street drivers were getting together and followed them to different areas…

Cut 12 (13) “…in play” 

The street racing participants were met with a large law enforcement presence around 11:00 p.m. in the parking lot at the Capital Area Technical College. Participants meet to perform stunts like “donuts” in front of an audience. McKneely says street takeovers will not be tolerated and there will be legal consequences…

Cut 13 (12) “…cost you.”

McKneely says Baton Rouge authorities are working to deter street racing activities.

Cut  14 (11)  “be tolerated….”

The state’s wildlife and fisheries commission approves a plan to conserve the popular redfish. Jeff Palermo has the story..

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Approval of the Alzheimer’s medication Leqembi (lah-kem’-bee) is a historic advancement in the treatment of the brain-robbing disease. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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A jury has decided 47-year-old Brian Horn should die by lethal injection for killing 12-year-old Justin Bloxom of Stonewall. Justin’s lifeless body was found along a highway in Desoto Parish in 2010. It’s the second time Horn has been convicted and sentenced to die for this brutal crime. Desoto District Attorney Charlie Adams believes this conviction will stick…

Cut 3 (10) “…of people

Horn was convicted the first time in 2014, but the Louisiana Supreme Court vacated the conviction and death sentence over concerns his lawyers infringed on his Sixth Amendment right to effective counsel. Adams says his attorney in the second trial used the same strategy, having Horn admit guilt in the hopes of avoiding the death sentence…

Cut 4 (09)  “…we prevailed.” 

The 47-year-old Horn will be formally sentenced on September 14th. It remains to be seen if the sentence will be carried as it has been since 2010 since an execution has taken place in Louisiana. But Adams says Horn’s case is why Louisiana has the death penalty….

Cut 5 (11)  “…appropriate result.”

Authorities say Horn portrayed himself as a young girl to Justin in an exchange of text messages and made arrangements to pick him up in a taxi cab. Horn was the driver of that cab and strangled Bloxom after the cab ran out of gas on U-S Highway 171 in Stonewall. 

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The state’s Wildlife and Fisheries Commission approves stricter catch limits for redfish in state waters in an effort to preserve the population of the popular fish. Commissioner Joe McPherson says sportsmen back their plan of reducing the catch limit from five redfish per day, per angler to three…

Cut 6 (08)  “…fishing success” 

The minimum size allowed would change from 16 to 18 inches and anglers can no longer keep a redfish above 24 inches.

Biologists suggested a limit of four redfish caught per day, per angler. But McPherson says a catch limit of three would speed up the recovery of the redfish population from 30 years to ten years.

Cut 7 (10)  “…are in” 

The plan will undergo a public comment period that last until October 5th. McPherson says the catch limit changes could go into effect in early December, if an oversight committee of the state legislature does not step in…

Cut 8 (12)  “…effect” 

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The FDA’s endorsement of the Alzheimer’s medication Leqembi (lah-kem’-bee), is a beacon of hope for the more than five million Americans with the brain-robbing disease. LSU Pennington Biomedical Research Center Professor Dr. Owen Carmichael says it’s a completely new era for Alzheimer’s disease.

Cut 9 (11)  “…symptoms.”

Carmichael says the medication is a twice-weekly infusion that’s been shown to clear sticky brain plaque linked to the disease.

And while it’s a remarkable advancement, Carmichael cautions Leqembi can have notable side effects.

Cut 10 (09)  “…off the drug.”

The FDA’s accelerated approval of Leqembi also prompted the Center for Medicare Services to announce they’ll pay for the drug via coverage under evidence development. That means patients will be monitored and physicians are required to track their progress similar to a clinical trial.

Carmichael warns the medication is not effective for all Alzheimer’s patients, it’s only effective against those with a specific protein in the brain.

Cut 11 (11)  “…other protein.”

Carmichael says it’s not known yet if long-term use of the medication will reverse one’s brain to pre-Alzheimer’s status and if the medication can wear off.

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The Major League Baseball Draft begins Sunday night and two LSU Tigers could be the first two picks, Dylan Crews and Paul Skenes. The Pittsburgh Pirates have the first pick and D-1 Baseball-dot-com’s Kendall Rogers says he would take Crews….

Cut 12 (12) “…day one” 

The Washington Nationals have the second pick and they could take Skenes, who could get to the major leagues quickly because of his 100-mile per hour fastball.

How high will LSU star Tre Morgan go in the draft? Rogers says Morgan is a great defensive first baseman, who hits for average, but does not have a lot of power

Cut 13 (13) “…with him.”

The Colorado State hurricane forecast team has increased its prediction for the Atlantic hurricane season from below-average to above-average. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Global business software company 360 Insights announces it is moving its U.S. headquarters to New Orleans. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser was in Jonesboro Thursday to unveil the latest civil rights trail maker. Teiko Foxx reports this one honors the Deacons for Defense Justice which protected civil rights workers, their families and the black community…

Cut 3 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx”

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Researchers at Colorado State University have revised their original forecast for the Atlantic hurricane season, instead of slightly below average, now it’s expected to be an above-average season.  Alex DesRosiers, a member of the Hurricane Forecast Team at CSU says record warm sea surface temp prompted the revision.

Cut 4 (08)  “…intensity.”

(2023 July CSU predicts 18 named storms, nine hurricanes, four major hurricanes, Cat 3 or higher)

(Previous CSU forecast from April – 13 named storms, six hurricanes, two major hurricanes)

Researchers say there’s more uncertainty than usual due to conflicting signals between warmer than normal waters in the Atlantic and a robust El Nino expected for the peak of hurricane season. DeRosiers says the height of the season is right around the corner. It’s a reason to prepare not to panic…

Cut 5 (12)   “…your community.”

DesRosiers says individuals who live in a coastal community should never let their guard down even if a below-average season is predicted. Last year’s predictions for the Atlantic were slightly below normal, but DeRosiers says it certainly didn’t feel that like after Ian to Floridians

Cut 6 (07)  “…evacuate.”

So far this year, there was a subtropical in January and three tropical storms in June, Arlene, Bret, and Cindy.

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Global business software company 360Insights announces it will move its U.S. headquarters from Delaware to New Orleans. Louisiana Economic Development says the company will bring at least 50 direct jobs and another 50-plus indirect jobs to the Crescent City. Josh Fleig (“FLEG”) is Senior VP of Business Dev elopement with Greater New Orleans Inc. He says the deal had been under works for over a year…:

Cut 7 (07) “…development sector.”

Fleig says GNO Inc. worked with the New Orleans Business Alliance and Louisiana Economic Development to attract 360Insights to move to the Bayou State. He says the state’s Digital Software Development Tax Credit program was a big enticement…:

Cut 8 (12) “…in the area.’”

Fleig says the company’s CEO has already moved to New Orleans and begun the groundwork for the move. He says the interview and hiring process has already gotten underway…:

Cut 9 (10)  “…85-thousand dollars.”

360Insights expects to be fully staffed in New Orleans within two years.

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Personal income growth in Louisiana grew by 6.2 percent in the first quarter of 2023, outpacing the national average of 5.1 percent according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. University of Louisiana at Lafayette Economist Gary Wagner says an increase in social security payments accounts for most of the hike…

Cut 10 (12) “…right now.”

The six-point two percent increase means Louisianan’s personal income grew higher than Mississippi, Arkansas, and Alabama. Wagner says overall the state’s workforce earnings increased slightly but so did inflation…

Cut 11 (13)  “way up.”

Wagner says last year, Louisiana ranked 50^th in personal income data for the nation. He says quarterly increases are not normally that high nationally….

Cut 12 (11)    “…income growth.” 

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Louisiana Civil Rights Trail unveiled its 11^th physical historical marker. The newest marker commemorates the founding of the Deacons for Defense and Justice in Jonesboro. Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser says this marker is one of many stories representing the brave men and women who played a pivotal role in Louisiana Civil Rights era…

Cut 13 (12) “…tourism trail.”  

The marker is located at the Deacons for Defense Park in Jonesboro.  The Deacons for Defense was an armed group of African Americans who provided protection for civil rights workers, their families, and the black community. Nungesser says the journey of the Deacons will continue through family members and for years to come…

Cut 14 (12)  “…to come.”

Two notable founders of the Deacons are Earnest ‘Chilly Willy’ Thomas and Frederick Douglass Kirkpatrick. Nungesser says there were 21 Deacons of Defense and Justice organizations founded across the southeastern U.S. He says the Louisiana civil rights trail narrates compelling stories and experiences of the people who dedicated themselves and their lives to making civil rights real in Louisiana.

Cut 15 (13)  “…the average.”

The current trail consists of 15 site markers, commemorating Civil Rights Era in Louisiana. Visit louisianacivilrightstrail.com to follow the historical journey.

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The first round of the Major League Baseball draft is Sunday night and LSU’s Dylan Crews and Paul Skenes are considered the top two players in the draft, but that doesn’t mean Pittsburgh, who holds the number one pick, will select Crews or Skenes. Baseball America prospect writer Geoff Pontes says M-L-B teams only have so much bonus dollars to spend on drafted players, so the Pirates could draft someone else that may not cost as much…

Cut 16 (18) “..could do that.”

Pontes says if the Pirates do not select Skenes or Crews, they may take the best high school prospect in the draft, outfielder Max Clark from Indiana…

Cut 17 (19) “…this draft.”

Crews has been a steady player during his LSU career and a two-time SEC Player of the Year and the 2023 Golden Spikes Award winner. But Pontes says Skenes 100 mile per hour fastball could put him in the major leagues as soon as next year, but there are greater risks with pitchers

Cut 18 (18) “…potentially” 

Authorities continue to track down leads in the July 4th block party mass shooting in Shreveport that killed four people and injured seven others.  Teiko Foxx has the story…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Is Twitter causing users to cut the cord and needle their way to Threads? So far 30 million have signed up. Brooke Thorington has more…

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

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A new independent poll on the 2023 governor’s race shows Attorney General Jeff Landry with a huge lead over his GOP opponents. Kaplan Strategies of Florida surveyed one-thousand likely voters just before the Fourth of July and 30-percent support Landry as the state’s next governor. Pollster Doug Kaplan…

Cut 3 (11) “…general election.”

Kaplan says the other Republicans and independent in the race are receiving minimal support, polling between six and two percent. Kaplan says if they drop out of the race and Landry chips away at the 24-percent of undecided voters, he could get to 50-percent and avoid a run-off…

Cut 4 (10)  “…his way” 

Kaplan says in his poll, 20-percent back the lone major Democrat in the race, Shawn Wilson. He says Wilson will need to rally to pull off an upset this fall…

Cut 5 (10)  “…the polls”

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Shreveport authorities are asking for the public’s help in identifying the gunman or gunmen who opened fire at a July 4^th block party that resulted in four deaths and seven injuries. Council member Tabitha Taylor expressed her sadness and anger toward the persons involved.

Cut 6 (12)  “…you hurt.” 

Gunfire erupted in Shreveport’s MLK neighborhood around midnight Tuesday night. About 200 people were at the annual event that has not been marked with violence in the past years. Taylor calls for swift justice…

Cut 7 (13)  “…pay relentlessly.” 

Only one victim, 17-year-old Sencere Brown has been identified by family. Mayor Tom Arceneaux urges the public to help with information to bring in those responsible so families and the community can begin mending from this massacre.

Cut 8 (12)  “…as possible” 

Anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of the suspects involved is encouraged to call Crimestoppers at (318) 673-7373.

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Since Twitter announced the use of their social media app would be limited or users could pay for more access, the launch of Facebook’s similar platform Threads is taking off. Haggai Davis with General Informatics… (in-for-matics) says since Elon Musk purchased the company…

Cut 9 (07)  “…for Twitter now.”

Davis says Threads is a part of Instagram, which is also part of the Meta/Facebook platform, so you have to have an Instagram account to get a Threads account.

While charging users is a way to increase revenue for the struggling social media platform, Davis says there’s another reason Twitter is limiting the reading of tweets.

Cut 10 (11)  “…than 600.”

Since its launch, less than 24 hours ago, Threads already has 30 million users. Davis, who’s among those users says if you like Instagram you’ll enjoy Threads. But he says if you’re used to following 1,500 people on Twitter…

Cut 11 (09)  “…pretty simple.”

Among celebrities who’ve joined Threads are Oprah Winfrey, Will Smith, Jennifer Lopez, and Gordon Ramsay.

Low levels in the Mississippi River have the Army Corps of Engineers ready to take steps to stop saltwater intrusion that could threaten drinking water supplies. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The Road Information Program says traffic fatalities jumped 21 percent during the pandemic, costing an estimated $37 billion in damage and healthcare. Teiko Foxx has the story…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The CDC releases a break down the COVID numbers of Americans 16 and older. Brooke Thorington has more on what the numbers mean.

Cut 3 (31)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says low water levels in the Mississippi River mean they will take steps to assure salt water from the Gulf does not intrude upstream, and threaten drinking water. Corps spokesman Ricky Boyette says they will begin their plans within the next few days…:

Cut 4 (14)  “.,..New Orleans, St. Bernard…”

Boyette says engineers will undertake dredging sediment to create a 45-foor high, 1500-foot wide “sill” to block the leading edge of saltwater from the Gulf from moving upriver. He says salt water is heavier than freshwater, so it stays near the bottom, but low levels can cause it to encroach inland…:

Cut 5 (11)   “…from the river.”

The sill will help pool up saltwater, then force it back downstream to the Gulf. Boyette says it has been successfully been done before; in 1988, ’99, 2012 and – most-recently – last year. He says the Mississippi River is at a low level, but it is still navigable for ship traffic…:

Cut 6 (12)  “…lower than normal.”

He says the work will start, probably, next week.

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The most recent economic impact study indicates Northwestern State University’s economic value is $520 million in income and the school supports more than seven thousand jobs. University President Dr. Marcus Jones says often nearby communities aren’t aware of the impact a college has on the region.

Cut 7 (10) “…located.”

In context, Jones says the school’s $520 million impact represents one and a half percent of the total gross regional product of northwest and central Louisiana. He says the school’s day-to-day expenses average $54 million.

Cut 8 (09) “…we spend.’”

And when you take into consideration student spending, it’s boosted the local economy by $10 million.  Jones says roughly 40 percent of their students come from areas outside of the region.

As for NSU’s overall return on investment, Jones says for every taxpayer dollar invested in the school, residents receive a cumulative of $2.40 over the course of the student’s working lives.

Cut 9 (13)  “…in return.”

Jones says findings from the study are important to stakeholders, legislators, and industry partners of the university.

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Close to 900 people were killed last year on Louisiana roads, that’s up 21 percent from the previous four years, resulting in $37 billion in property damage and health care costs, according to TRIP, a national transportation research nonprofit. Director of Policy and Research Rocky Moretti says the surge in fatalities among pedestrians and cyclists was alarming.

Cut 10 (13) “…and bicyclist.”

From 2019- 2022, pedestrians and cyclists saw a combined total of 84 hundred traffic-related fatalities. Motorcyclists represented 14 percent of fatalities. Moretti says traffic fatalities are costly.

Cut 11 (12)  “loss property….”

And it’s not just aggressive drivers, Moretti says the number of impaired fatal crashes increased a disturbing 22 percent. He says motorists should make better decisions by driving the speed limit and not being distracted or impaired. And agencies need to make repairs and roadway improvements.

Cut 12 (11)    “…as possible.” 

From 2019-2022, the traffic fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles of travel (VMT) increased by 18 percent.

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The CDC says 97 percent of Americans, sixteen and older, have some type of antibodies against COVID, either from having it or being vaccinated. And LSU Health New Orleans Infectious Disease specialist, Dr. Fred Lopez says the study found that only 78 percent actually had COVID.

Cut 13 (12) “…natural infection.”  

And with almost a quarter of the population with antibodies, Lopez says it indicates it’s not too late to get vaccinated.

Cut 14 (08)  “…infected.”

The CDC dashboard shows almost 70 percent of Americans are fully vaccinated against COVID but when you break down Louisiana’s numbers only 53 percent of residents are fully vaccinated.

Cut 15 (11)  “…the average.”

Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama have the lowest booster rates in the country.

Louisiana taxes on vape products and electronic cigarettes increased threefold from 5 cents per milliliter to 15 cents per milliliter as of July 1. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The Supreme Court’s ruling that President Biden overstepped his authority on student loan debt forgiveness receives criticism. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A new poll in the Governor’s race shows GOP candidate Stephen Waguespack surging into 3^rd place, but is it an accurate representation of voter preference? Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 3 (32)  “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Taxes on e-cigarettes and vape products in Louisiana have tripled as of July 1. Secretary of Department of Revenue Kevin Richard says retailers must use electronic age verification platforms…

Cut 4 (13)  “…of age.”

The Legislative Fiscal Office expects the tax bump – from five cents per milliliter to 15 cents per milliliter – to generate an additional $9.8 million in revenue annually on top of the roughly $5 million it currently brings in.

Retailers purchasing these products tax-free directly from online authorized manufacturers are required to pay the excise tax to the Department of Revenue monthly. Richard says anyone who does not comply will face penalties.

Cut 5 (13)   “…other offense.”

Beginning on Oct. 1, manufacturers will have to register their products with ATC. The law will also create a directory of all vape and alternative nicotine products authorized for sale in the state. Richard says retailers will need to comply…

Cut 6 (10)  “…current laws.”

The first $22 million raised annually will go to State Police pay raises.

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The US Supreme Court ruling that President Biden overstepped his authority to forgive federally backed student loans is receiving criticism. New Orleans Congressman Troy Carter says it’s a bad day for liberty, and it sends the wrong message to students who’ve worked hard to get their college degrees.

Cut 7 (07) “…provide help.”

Carter says the decision will limit the ability for many to purchase a home, start a business and spend extra money in local economies.

Cut 8 (09) “…them relief.’”

The court’s ruling on student debt forgiveness on the heels of affirmative action being overturned for college admission, Carter says is another example of politics in the nation’s highest court.

Cut 9 (07)  “…of policy.”

Carter says the federal government regularly forgives the debt of businesses, industries, and even small countries and students deserve the same.

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A new poll on the 2023 Governor’s race shows Democrat Shawn Wilson slightly ahead of Republican front-runner Jeff Landry, but also shows former LABI head Stephen Waguespack surging into 3^rd place. The poll was conducted for Reboot La, a political action committee supporting Waguespack for Governor. Political analyst Roy Fletcher says he’s recently two independent polls that contradict Reboots LA’s findings…:

Cut 10 (12) “…into double digits.”

Remington Research did the survey for Reboot LA. In an “if the election were today” question in the poll, 27% said they’d choose the former DOTD Secretary, 25% said Landry and now 16% says Waguespack is their choice. Fletcher feels it’s no coincidence Waguespack shows well in a poll done by his supporters…:

Cut 11 (05)  “…for a reason.”

Reboot LA’s poll shows Waguespack 14 percentage points in just three months, to take an unofficial 3^rd place. It also shows Shawn Wilson with a 2-point lead on Republican Jeff Landry. Fletcher says not to place too much faith in polling unless done by independent pollsters. He doubts the Remington/Reboot La poll is accurate…:

Cut 12 (07)    “…but that’s malarkey.” 

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After close to 50 years in law enforcement, Caddo Parish Sheriff Steve Prator announces he will not seek re-election. Prator says a recent diagnosis of a treatable cardiac condition played a role in his decision.

Cut 13 (10) “…this decision.”  

Prator says fundraising for his campaign was not an issue whatsoever and he had all intentions to seek re-election and donations to his campaign will be returned to donors. He says he’s not resigning and that he will continue to serve as sheriff for the next 12 months.

Cut 14 (12)  “…in Caddo Parish.”

Prator is among the longest-serving sheriffs in Caddo Parish, and at the end of his current term, he will have served 24 years. Prator says he wanted to announce his decision because there are only six weeks left to qualify for the office.

Cut 15 (10)  “…successful campaign.”

Prator’s career in law enforcement began in 1973 as a patrol officer in Shreveport. He then worked homicide, robbery, sex crimes, and narcotics before being appointed Chief of the Shreveport Police Department. His term as sheriff began in July of 2000.

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We could see some record high temperatures today. Health officials warn to stay out of the heat. Teiko Foxx has more….

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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On his monthly radio show, Governor Edwards discussed how he intends to rectify last-minute state budget cuts and the possibility of a veto override session. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Governor Edwards has vetoed legislation some call the “Stay Back” bill; aimed at heading off bad encounters between police and citizens. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 3 (31)  “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The oppressive heat just will not relent and forecasters say record highs could fall today. Co-Chair of the Division of Disaster Medicine and EMS at LSU Health Science Center in New Orleans Dr. Jim Aiken urges the public to practice heat safety.

Cut 4 (13)  “…to it.”

We could see heat index values of 115 degrees or above over the next couple of days. Aiken says if you work outside, try to manage outdoor activity…

Cut 5 (10)   “…plan ahead.”

Symptoms of heat-related illness include dizziness, fatigue, faintness, headaches, muscle cramps, and increased thirst.

Aiken says the best plan is to stay hydrated and request breaks in the shaded areas as often as possible. He says high heat can lead to life-threatening illnesses that are avoidable…

Cut 6 (08)  “…about this.”

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On his monthly radio call-in show “Ask the Governor” Governor John Bel Edwards discussed the state budget that passed in the final moments of the session earlier this month. The budget most notably, despite a surplus in funding, contained a $100 million cut to the Louisiana Department of Health.

Cut 7 (13) “…and compassion.”

To date, the governor has not vetoed any legislation pertaining to the transgender population. He says he has only a few days to decide if he will or not and he’s hopeful lawmakers will not return for a veto override session.

Cut 8 (11) “…to that.’”

Among the anti-transgender bills, is one to prohibit transgender procedures and or treatments of minors. Another prohibits classroom discussion of sexual identity and orientation and a third restricts the use of pronouns and the name a student can go by in the classroom. Edwards says the bills have nothing to do with improving the economy, education, or healthcare.

Cut 9 (12)  “…and so forth.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards has vetoed a bill that would have given police officers the ability to command you to “stay back” while they do their job. In his veto statement, the Governor says House Bill 85 was unnecessary because state laws already punish those who interfere with an officer. Bill author and Pineville Republican Representative Mike Johnson says his bill was about heading off possible interference…:

Cut 10 (07) “…feels threatened.”

The governor’s other objection was the bill’s potential chilling effect on exercising one’s First Amendments rights. He worried about people being able to observe and record cops. Chris Kaiser is the policy director for the ACLU of Louisiana. He says the Governor’s veto was the right thing to do because the bill was “unconstitutionally vague” and an overreach…:

Cut 11 (09)  “…governor’s action today.”

The bill drew bipartisan support in both the House and Senate, despite heavy opposition in committee rooms. Detractors said it threatens citizens’ First Amendment rights and prevents people from video-recording police. Rep. Johnson says the legislation did none of that…:

Cut 12 (11)    “…a police officer.” 

Johnson says he will file the bill again next year, when there may be a Governor willing to sign it into law.

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If you had damage from the 2020-2021 hurricanes and need assistance with submitting surveys, Restore Louisiana representatives will be on-site in Kenner today at the Martin Luther King Center before the August 1 deadline. Community Development Director Pat Forbes says homeowners statewide still have not completed the initial step.

Cut 13 (12) “…survey done.”  

Restore LA provides grant funding to homeowners who suffered damage from hurricanes and flooding in 2020 and 2. The money can pay for repairs, reconstruction, and/or reimbursement for repairs already completed. Forbes says the goal is to get homeowners financial assistance to help them recover from their losses…

Cut 14 (07)  “…up yet.”

Since launching in February 2022, more than 22 thousand homeowners have submitted the survey. Forbes says the program expanded its criteria for homeowners to qualify.

Cut 15 (12)  “…fifty thousand.”

Homeowners can complete the survey at restore.la.gov or call 866-735-2001.

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On a hot, steamy night, thousands of LSU fans went to Alex Box Stadium last night to celebrate the 2023 national champion LSU baseball team. Several star players spoke to the big crowd. Dylan Crews thanked the fans…

Cut 16 (19) “…can I say.”

Paul Skenes put together one of the greatest seasons ever by a college baseball pitcher. Skenes was at Air Force the last two seasons and made the decision to transfer LSU so he can improve as a pitcher and win a natty…

Cut 17 (17) “…came here.”

Coach Jay Johnson says he didn’t spend much time working on his speech as he is already preparing for the 2024 season. But Johnson says he’ll never forget this group of players and the focus they played with in the NCAA Tournament….

Cut 18 (19) “…2023 (applause).” 

A three-vehicle accident involving an ambulance kills two and injures three in Pointe Coupee Parish Tuesday. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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A new poll shows Stephen Waguespack making up ground in the governor’s race. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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There’s a new king of Louisiana Seafood. Chef Owen Hohl of Hot Tails -with two locations in New Roads and Prairieville- beat out eleven chefs to win the 16^th Annual Louisiana Seafood Cook-Off. Hohl says the competition was intense but he was prepared.

Cut 3 (07) “…felt comfortable”

Hohl prepared a plantain-scaled grouper highlighting his creativity and the superior quality of the seafood that comes from Louisiana’s waterways. Before the competition, the Honduran native believed a combination of spicy cultures would give him a flavorful edge over the competition.

Cut 4 (12)  “…slight advantage.” 

Hohl’s will represent the state in the 19^th Annual Great American Seafood Cook-Off in New Orleans in August. He will also serve as a Louisiana Ambassador for Seafood for the next year promoting all the great dishes in our state that will Feed Your Soul. As King of Seafood, Hohl is excited to showcase the Gulf’s seafood through his amazing dishes to the world.

Cut 5 (11)  “…they gave me the chance” ”

For the first time in the event’s history, the cook-off was held in Lake Charles on June 27.

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A three-vehicle accident involving an ambulance Tuesday in Pointe Coupee Parish claims two lives and severely injures a third. Trooper Christian Reed says the driver of the ambulance, 28-year-old Kymber Nezat of Baton Rouge, and 82-year-old Albert Bordelon of Avoyelles Parish who was being transported by the ambulance died at the scene.

Cut 6 (11)  “…head on.” 

Reed says a second passenger in the ambulance was transported to a local hospital with severe injuries. He says the drivers of the Nissan and semi were properly restrained, and treated for moderate injuries, and toxicology samples were collected.

Cut 7 (09)  “…analysis.” 

The accident remains under investigation and Reed reminds the public to never drive impaired, be properly restrained, and always focus on driving when you’re behind the wheel.

Cut 8 (10)  “…while driving.” 

According to The Advocate Nezat, the ambulance driver, was pregnant

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Nearly three years after the catastrophic hurricanes of 2020, Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says he’s frustrated the U.S. Department of Commerce has finally said there will be financial aid for Louisiana’s seafood industries to recoup revenue losses. He says the economic impact was tremendous on our fisheries and the process should not take this long.

Cut 9 (09) “…operating under.”

Louisiana’s seafood industry revenue loss from hurricanes Laura, Delta, and Zeta in 22 coastal parishes totaled over $155 million. Graves says these types of losses could threaten their livelihood.

Cut 10 (10)  “…is destroyed.”

Graves says it’s critical that disaster funds are dispersed soon.

Cut 11 (11)  “…as possible.”

Lumen Technologies in Monroe has donated its 800-thousand-square-foot commercial offices to the University of Louisiana – Monroe. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The federal government has announced its approval of a disaster declaration for Louisiana commercial fisheries over revenue lost due to three 2020 hurricanes. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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 The College World Series Champion LSU Tigers were welcomed home by the home crowd yesterday. Kace Kieschnick has more…

Cut 3 (34)  “….I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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Ochsner Hospital for Children in New Orleans has been recognized as the number one kid’s hospital in Louisiana by U.S. News & World Report for the third year. System Chair of Pediatrics Dr. William Lennarz says Ochsner is committed to providing top-quality care for kids across the Gulf South.

Cut 4 (12)  “…the U.S.”

The 17^th annual Best Children’s Hospital rankings recognize the top 50 pediatric facilities across the U.S. in 10 pediatric specialties including cancer, cardiology and heart surgery, diabetes, and endocrinology. Lennarz says more than thirty plus pediatric specialties and sub-specialties care for 76 thousand children every year.

Cut 5 (11)   “…far between.”

The hospital was also recognized as a national leader in pediatric cardiology and heart surgery and pediatric orthopedics. These rankings help parents with children who have rare or life-threatening illnesses and their doctors in choosing the right hospital for them.

Lennarz says the children’s hospital excelled at factors such as clinical outcomes, level and quality of hospital resources…

Cut 6 (12)  “…the analysis.”

Ochsner Hospital for Children offers the only pediatric heart and liver transplant program in the state and has been recognized as a national healthcare leader since 2017.

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Lumen Technologies announces it is donating its local facilities campus to U.L.-Monroe. Lumen is moving more to hybrid and remote work, leaving the two buildings largely unused. ULM President Dr. Ronald Berry says Lumen (originally known as CenturyTel) approached them about the 800-thousand-square-foot facility…:

Cut 7 (13) “…and Lumen’s leadership.”

Lumen’s Mark Molzen says, as more employees started working from home, they sought a suitable use for their large two-building campus. He says they have had a long partnership with ULM and giving the university the facility seems like the right move…:

Cut 8 (10) “…and uhhh alumni.’”

Lumen plans to lease back just over 50-thousand square feet of space for meetings and in-person events. ULM President Ron Berry says the university will seek to recruit local and regional firms to move into the former Lumen Technologies Center for Excellence…:

Cut 9 (07)  “…at the facility.”

The mixed-use commercial facility will be renamed for CenturyTel founder and Monroe benefactor Clarke Williams.

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U.S. Commerce Department announces the state’s saltwater finfish, oyster, and shrimping industries will receive financial support due to revenue losses caused by the 2020 hurricanes. State Wildlife Fisheries Biologist Administrator Jason Froeba says this is good news for the state.”

Cut 10 (09) “…the way.”

How much will be allocated will be determined by NOAA. Froeba says despite waiting two years on federal financial assistance from a 2019 disaster, the determination is another step towards disaster funding.

Cut 11 (12)  “…be spent.”

Froeba says shortly after the storms LDWF and LSU Ag Center put together a report on estimated damages and NOAA had a 35% loss requirement to be eligible.

Cut 12 (12)    “…million dollars.” 

Froeba says the process will help the seafood industry be more resilient to future disasters. Funding recovers losses from 2020 hurricanes Laura, Delta, and Zeta.

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The National Champion LSU baseball team returned home yesterday to the cheers and support of the Tigers faithful. Hundreds of fans reflected on a victorious season and welcomed home what some believe to be one of the greatest in LSU history…

Cut 13 (12) “…what happened.”  

The Tigers players celebrate a well-deserved triumphant end to the season. For many of the Tigers stars it will be how they cap off their careers in Baton Rouge. This Tigers team relied on both LSU veterans and young talent, and there are a lot of fan favorites…

Cut 14 (11)  “…got it big.”

In a season that began with Omaha-or-Bust expectations, fans, players, and coaches celebrated a successful end to a long season. As the Tigers fought back through the College World Series, many fans said it wasn’t hard to tell what set this group apart…

Cut 15 (07)  “…this thing.”

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Pelicans first-round pick Jordan Hawkins was welcomed to the team today. The Uconn guard spent 2 seasons with the Huskies including an NCAA championship run this past season. The 21-year-old says his experience on a championship-winning team has helped prepare him for the NBA…

Cut 16 (13) “…really well.”

Hawkins was widely regarded as one of the best shooters in this year’s draft. Specializing in of-ball movement and shooting, Hawkins was a 39 percent three-point shooter at Uconn. He says he’s studied some of the greatest shooters ever to improve his Reggie Miller style of play…

Cut 17 (10) “…them too so.”

Although he’s known for his shooting, he’s also shown flashes of athleticism and says he’s added 10 pounds this offseason to adapt to the NBA’s physical defense. Hawkins will provide some much-needed shooting for the Pelicans but says he’s ready to contribute however necessary…

Cut 18 (15) “…needs me to do.” 

LSU is a national champion in baseball for a seventh time in program history. Jeff Palermo looks back at a dominating win in the final game of the College World Series…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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With a $1.36 billion investment by the federal government, Louisianans will receive high-speed internet. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx”  

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The LSU Tigers are national champions of college baseball for the first time since 2009 and the seventh time in program history after blowing out Florida 18 to 4 in the final game of the College World Series. Cade Beloso has been waiting for this since he arrived on campus in the fall of 2018…

Cut 3 (12) “…work for”

The Tigers had a College World  Series record 24 hits and eleven different Tigers recorded a hit, including shortstop Jordan Thompson who had two hits. Thompson had just one hit in the C-W-S entering the game and committed a couple of errors on Sunday. Coach Jay Johnson spoke with J-T before the game…

Cut 4 (12)  “…I’m good.” 

Johnson wins a national championship in his second season as head coach at LSU. He’s grateful the LSU administration believed in them…

Cut 5 (11)  “…they gave me the chance” ”

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The federal government has awarded Louisiana 1.36 billion dollars for the expansion of affordable, reliable high-speed internet service for businesses and residents. Connect LA Executive Director Veneeth Iyengar says these funds represent the eighth largest allocation in the country

Cut 6 (13)  “…once for for all” 

Iyengar says Louisiana has now received more than one-point-eight billion dollars in total federal funding for broadband expansion. He says the state has also appropriated $10 million to the community college system to build a workforce that can bring high speed internet to every area of the state…

Cut 7 (07)  “…by 2025” 

Iyengar says the goal is to provide every Louisiana business and home with high-speed, affordable and reliable internet by 2029.

Cut 8 (13)  “…reliable internet.” 

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While the baseball team won their 7^th College World Series championship, tiger fans in Omaha won their first Jell-o Shot Challenge and the real winner is LSU’s food pantry.  LSU Campus Life spokesperson Alison Paz says Rocco’s Pizza and Cantina will be sending them a $60-thousand donation.

Cut 9 (11) “…our students.”

Paz says food insecurity on college campuses can be as high as 30 percent and last year they distributed almost 262-thousand pounds of food.

Two dollars from every $5 shot is being donated by Rocco’s Pizza to each participating school and Jevo, the company that made the shots, will also make a charitable donation. Paz says they were contacted by the owners of Rocco’s just before the first shot congealed and they explained how the contest would work. But did they ever imagine the donation would exceed $60-thousand?

Cut 10 (06)  “…turn out.”

Paz says the donation is among the largest they’ve ever received. The owners of Rocco’s Pizza in Omaha say they had such a great time entertaining Tiger fans they are planning a road trip to attend an LSU football game. Paz says she’d welcome the visit.

Cut 11 (09)  “…that donation.”

LSU fans in Omaha consumed a record 68,888 shots in the 2023 CWS Jell-O Shot Challenge.

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A bizarre carjacking in Slidell Sunday ended with an arrest in Alabama. Slidell Police spokesperson Daniel Seuzeneau says shortly before 1 PM 37-year-old Tyron Pryor of Kingsville, Texas barged into the Outback Steakhouse, grabbed a kitchen knife, and threaten employees and customers.

Cut 12 (11) “…then took off.” 

Just hours later, Seuzeneau says Pryor encountered an Alabama State Trooper who was working an accident in Tuscaloosa County.

Cut 13 (14) “…in Alabama.” 

After the chase, Seuzeneau says Pryor was apprehended and is being held in the Tuscaloosa County Jail facing multiple charges in Alabama. Eventually, Pryor will be extradited to Slidell where he’ll be charged with carjacking and more. Seuzeneau says carjackings are rare in Slidell.

Cut  14 (10)  “…little disturbing.”