Tonight’s your last chance before early voting to hear from five of the six major gubernatorial candidates in a statewide televised debate. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Officials are discussing building a freshwater pipeline that can dilute salt water as it enters water treatment facilities in Jefferson and Orleans Parishes. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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The last gubernatorial debate before early voting airs tonight on Louisiana Public Broadcasting. Council for a Better Louisiana and LPB are hosting the debate featuring five candidates and CABL President Barry Erwin says this debate will focus on their plan for the future of the Bayou State.

Cut 3 (09) “…the state.”

Erwin says with many undecided voters in the state, this is a great chance for the public to get to know the candidates better and…

Cut 4 (11) “…the candidates.”

Because CABL is a nonprofit and nonpartisan organization, Erwin says their forums focus on issues that impact residents, not political rhetoric.

Cut 5 (12) “ …our state.”  

Front-runner Attorney General Jeff Landry is not participating in tonight’s forum.

The one-hour debate will air on LPB at 7 o’clock tonight and available for streaming afterwards on LPB’s YouTube channel and some public radio stations will also broadcast the forum.

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According to the AARP Scorecard, Louisiana ranks 45^th in the nation for long-term care services and support for older Americans. Director of Advocacy Andrew Muhl says only 22 percent of Louisiana’s Medicaid spending goes toward home care service.

Cut 6 (10) “…individual choosing.”

In nursing homes and institutional care, the scorecard shows only two percent of the state’s aging population live in a high-rated facility. The report also shows gaps in workforce and equity which result in persistent problems in care.

Muhl says nursing home quality falls below the national average. And one of the biggest myths is that people in nursing homes receive 24-hour care…

Cut 7 (12) “…nursing home.” 

In family caregiving, the state also shows a 10 percent decline in adult day services and access to home health aides. Muhl hopes the new governor along with lawmakers will rebalance long-term care for older adults. 

Cut 8 (10) “…prioritize options.”

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As saltwater continues to move up the lower Mississippi River, plans are underway to build a pipeline that would take fresh river water from past Kenner and transport it to drinking water treatment plants in Orleans and Jefferson Parish to dilute the salt. New Orleans’ director of homeland security and emergency preparedness Collin Arnold

Cut 9 (09) “…the city” 

Arnold says costs estimates for the project are 100-to-250 million dollars and construction could begin in a week.

Current forecasts call for the salt to reach New Orleans’ Carrollton plant, which serves the city’s east bank around October 28th. Arnold says the duration of this event could last into next year

Cut 10 (11) “…the Midwest.”

Arnold says if the pipeline is not finished by the time the salt arrives at the Carrollton water treatment plant in late October, the city is preparing to distribute bottled water…

Cut 11 (09) “…do that.”

The Lions Camp Road and Elizabeth wildfires, in Vernon and Allen parishes, are now 100 percent contained. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Sixty-six fewer people died on Louisiana roadways last year, compared to 2021 according to the LSU Center for Analytics and Research and in Transportation Safety. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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Two of the four fires that have damaged more than 40,000 of woodlands in Louisiana are under control, according to the Southern Area Complex Incident Management Gold Team. The Lions Camp Road and Elizabeth wildfires are 100 percent contained. Vernon Parish Sheriff Sam Craft says fire crews have spent nearly a month trying to get the Lions Camp Road fire controlled.

Cut 3 (11) “…nobody’s residence.”

Authorities have confirmed that the cause of the Lions Camp Fire was arson. The fire started at the end of Vernon Park Road near the Lions Camp neighborhood. Craft says the fire began to burn really slow but within minutes was out of control.

Cut 4 (07) “…so dry.”

Craft says rain prevented any jumps or hot spots from reigniting. He says firefighters from across the country were amazed at the intensity of the wildfires in Louisiana

Cut 5 (11) “ …west maybe.”  

Anyone with information about the Tiger Island fire or any other arson-related wildfires should call the State Fire Marshal, or local law enforcement.

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Amendment 2 on the October 14^th ballot would grant the highest level of protection to worship in a church. Public Affairs Research Council President Steven Procopio says COVID restrictions prompted the amendment and that both US and state constitutions already protect the freedom to worship.

Cut 6 (11) “…of protection.”

Procopio says if you believe not only should individuals have the right to worship but the right to do so in a church, or any other religious facility you would be in favor of the amendment.

Cut 7 (06) “…against it.” 

During the pandemic, Central Pastor Tony Spell was cited for continuing to hold church services for more than 50 people during Phase I COVID protocols in Louisiana.

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Last year 906 people died on Louisiana roadways, that’s almost a seven percent decrease from 2021 which had 972 fatalities. That’s according to the LSU Center for Analytics and Research and in Transportation Safety. Louisiana Highway Safety Commission spokesperson Greg Fischer says more people returned to work in 2022 which increased traffic…

Cut 8 (11) “…DWI stops.”

In 2022 Fischer there was a bigger effort to stop drunk and impaired drivers and it paid off.

Cut 9 (11) “…(x2) fewer fatalities.” 

DWI arrests in 2022 increased eight percent and there was an eight-percent decrease in drunk-driving fatalities.

Sadly, fatalities among pedestrians, bicyclists, and motorcyclists remained near or above 2021 levels. Fischer encourages pedestrians to walk against traffic so they can see oncoming vehicles and move out of harm’s way. And to also make yourself more visible…

Cut 10 (06) “…see you.”

Fischer says the majority of traffic fatalities are caused by four things, lack of seatbelt usage, aggressive, impaired, and distracted drivers.

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President Biden has approved Louisiana’s request for an emergency declaration in the state’s battle against saltwater intrusion moving up the Mississippi River. GOHSEP spokesperson Mike Steele says steps are being taken to protect the drinking water in Orleans, Jefferson, St. Bernard, and Plaquemines parishes

Cut 11 (10) “…with that event.”

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts. Steele says the emergency declaration unlocks federal assistance to help impacted parishes that are taking steps to make sure the salt water doesn’t get into the drinking water facilities…

Cut 12 (12) “…along the river” 

Steele says the emergency declaration is set to last for 90 days, but Steele says it can be extended….

Cut 13 (13) “…some point.”

You can find more information under the Saltwater Intrusion tab at emergency-dot-la-dot.gov.

Democrat Shawn Wilson says he has the proven track record of bipartisan leadership to move the state forward. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Amendment 1 on the ballot would ban the use of financial of other donations from a nongovernmental or foreign source to administer elections in Louisiana. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A powerful lobbying group for businesses has a new leader. Jeff Palermo reports he’s a familiar face at the state capitol…

Cut 3 (31) …I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Former State Transportation Director Shawn Wilson says he’s the best gubernatorial candidate because of his proven bipartisan leadership and the ability to deliver infrastructure projects. Projects like widening I-10 in Baton Rouge, advancing a new Mississippi River Bridge, and building a new entrance at Barksdale Air Force Base.

Cut 4 (11) “…do that.”

The Democrat says his campaign is about making sure residents are healthier, safer, smarter, and wealthier. First Wilson says he’ll address Medicaid expansion requirements and then make investments to be smart on crime…

Cut 5 (12) “…and educators.”

Wilson says he wants to fund early childhood education and ensure teacher pay raises….

Cut 6 (08) “…everything else.”

The Lafayette native says in addressing the state’s insurance crisis he also wants to be a governor that holds insurers accountable so citizens receive the benefits they are entitled to.

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Ag and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain says the Louisiana Forestry Association continues to offer a reward of up to $15 thousand for tips leading to the arrest of arsonists in the state’s three largest wildfires. He says Laura McLaughlin of Pitkin was arrested for setting the Highway 113 fire which started in Rapides and spread into Vernon Parish

Cut 7 (11) “…being destroyed.”

The total suppression cost associated with these fires is estimated at $2.7 million.

Strain in the last six weeks, five arrests have been made but there has not been an increase in calls despite the reward. He says the reward remains until everyone is held liable for committing such a criminal act. 

Cut 8 (11) “…to justice.” 

The crime of simple arson could carry a fine of up to $15,000 and imprisonment of not more than 15 years. If the damage is less than $500, the offender will be fined or imprisoned for not more than five years, or both. Strain says the state is still experiencing dry conditions…

Cut 9 (12)  “…to wildfires.”

Anyone with information about the Tiger Island fire or any other arson-related wildfires should call the State Fire Marshal, or local law enforcement.

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Also on the October 14^th ballot are four constitutional amendments. Steven Procopio, President of the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana says a vote for Amendment 1 would ban the use of financial or other donations from a nongovernmental or foreign source to administer elections.

Cut 10 (10) “…with that.”

Procopio says at least twice the lawmakers passed legislation against it, but it was vetoed by Governor Edwards. Procopio says Amendment 1 is another attempt to solidify that those types of organizations cannot donate to help administer elections.

Cut 11 (06) “…looking at.”

The concern is that the organization might try to influence an election by encouraging some voters to turn out more or even less. But Procopio says opponents argue the state only has so many dollars when it comes to elections.

Cut 12 (11) “…against it.” 

Early voting begins Saturday.

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The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry has a new president. Will Green is leaving as the head of the Louisiana Automobile Dealers Association to lead L-A-B-I. Green says he’s eager to work with the new governor and the legislature in removing unnecessary regulations and taxes on businesses…

Cut 13 (11) “…we’re open”

Green says he’s ready to advance positive policies Louisiana businesses desperately need…

Cut 14 (09) “…lawsuit abuse”

Green says he wants to enact bold reforms that will result in a climate for economic growth and champions the principles of a free enterprise system…

Cut 15 (09) “…their throat”

According to his LinkedIn page, Green worked at LABI from 2014 to 2016 as their director for civil justice reform and employee relations. In 2016, he got the job to lead the state’s auto dealers.

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ULM will once again start Jiya Wright at quarterback this Saturday when they host Appalachian State in the Sun Belt opener. Wright failed to throw for 100 yards a couple of weeks ago in the loss to Texas A-and-M, but Coach Terry Bowden liked what he saw from Wright…

Cut 16 (16) “…gets back.”

Herring started the Lamar game, but injured his shoulder  and will not available this Saturday. The Warhawks had last Saturday off and they spent time on improving their pass defense…

Cut 17 (17) “…football wise.”

ULM hosts App State at 7 PM.

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The Lady Tigers return All-American Angel Reese and SEC Freshman of the Year Flau-jae Johnson, plus several key role players. Coach Kim Mulkey has also added talented newcomers in All-Americans Haily Van Lith from Louisville and Aneesah Morrow from DePaul. So the expectation is LSU will repeat. Coach Kim Mulkey was asked about the expectations…

Cut 18 (18) “…right time”

Mulkey says this is a much different team than what she had last year…

Cut 19 (19) “…what happens” 

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13th ranked LSU will visit 20th ranked Ole Miss on Saturday at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. The Rebels lost their first game of the season last Saturday as they fell to Alabama. Coach Lane Kiffin says the players will not let that loss linger…

Cut 20 (17) “…good defense.” 

Kick-off is at 5 PM in Oxford.

LSU women’s basketball Coach Kim Mulkey says she had surgery that potentially saved her life over the summer. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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A major donor to Jeff Landry’s campaign for governor says he wants his money back. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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Low water levels in the Mississippi River have decreased water flow into the gulf, which is allowing salt water to enter the river.  And for those water systems who get their supply from the Mississippi River…

Cut 3 (10) “…to treat.”

That’s Ricky Boyette, Public Affairs for the Army Corps of Engineers. He says they’ve acquired barges that will go upriver and be filled with river water…

Cut 4 (12) “…drinking purposes.”

Boyett says the Corps’ focus is to be able to transport 15 million gallons of water daily by the end of the week downstream with a goal of moving 36 million gallons a day.

Cut 5 (09) “ …effective measures.”  

On Monday, Boyette says the Corps began to raise the underwater levee that was constructed in July to buy more time with very little rain in the foreseeable future.

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A major donor to Jeff Landry’s gubernatorial campaign is asking for his $100,000 donation to be returned. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says it appears donor John Odom has a beef with Landry hiring a former Trump campaign manager, Corey Lewandowski.

Cut 6 (07) “…and none.”

Pinsonat says usually once the check clears, it’s already spent and it’s highly unlikely your donation will be returned. But there have been cases where donations are sent back, especially if the donor is a distraction to the campaign.

Cut 7 (10) “…top them.” 

Odom has stated that Lewandowski is unfit to serve in any campaign and he’s urged Landry to reconsider the hire. There was an article in The Advocate newspaper about the situation and as we get closer to the election Pinsonat says stories like this might become more prevalent.

Cut 8 (08) “…a conclusion.”

Early voting begins this Saturday for the October 14^th primary.

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The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services has appointed Dr. Rebecca Hook as its first Medical Director to help with medical response efforts to child abuse and neglect. Amanda Brunson DCFS Assistant Secretary for Child Welfare says Hook will serve as an in-house clinical resource for case workers and staff.

Cut 9 (11) “…understand it.” 

Hook has worked as the pediatric emergency room physician at Our Lady of the Lake for eight years. She has also worked at OLOL Children’s Hospital since it opened. Brunson says Hook will also act as a subject matter expert for children and families.

Cut 10 (12) “…child welfare.”

Since moving to the Bayou State, Hook has served as the medical representative on the multidisciplinary team for DCFS and the Baton Rouge Children’s Advocacy Center. When conflicting opinions from medical providers or a report come in, Brunson says Hook will consult on complex medical cases on child welfare.

Cut 11 (12) “…right path.”

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

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeanne Burns.”

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

Cut 3 (32) …I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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

Cut 4 (11) “…but the Lord.”

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

Cut 5 (12) “…Louisiana wants.”

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

Cut 6 (11) “…working society.”

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

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

Cut 7 (11) “…Mardi Gras.”

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

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

Cut 8 (12) “…a problem.” 

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

Cut 9 (11)  “…they’re elected.”

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

Cut 10 (12) “…of emergencies.”

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

Cut 11 (10) “…hearingl.”

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

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

Cut 12 (08) “..10 to 15 days” 

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

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

Cut 13 (08) “…more often.”

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

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

Cut 14 (11) “…I think”

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

Cut 15 (12) “…opportunities there.”

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

Cut 16 (16) “…weren’t good enough”

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

Cut 17 (15) “…bounce back”

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

Cut 18 (16) “…easier.”

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

Cut 19 (18) “…another chance” 

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

Cut 20 (21) “..with the win” 

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

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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

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

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

Cut 3 (10) “…a group”

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

Cut 4 (11) “…on that..”

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

Cut 5 (12) “ …as well”  

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

Cut 6 (11) “…local races”

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

Cut 7 (11) “..be done” 

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

Cut 8 (12) “…Republicans are”

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

Cut 9 (09) “…to me.” 

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

Cut 10 (12) “…us behind.”

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

Cut 11 (08) “…on voters.”

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

Cut 12 (11) “…the system (x2)” 

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

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

Cut 13 (11) “…capture ultimately.”

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

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

Cut  14 (09) “…be found.”

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

Cut 15 (03) “…be served.”

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

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”  

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

Cut 3 (07) “…for college”

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

Cut 4 (10) “…care of.”

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

Cut 5 (09) “ …nursing program”  

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

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

Cut 6 (10) “…hot button issues”

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

Cut 7 (05) “..second look” 

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

Cut 8 (12) “…candidacy.”

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

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

Cut 9 (11) “…by lights.” 

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

Cut 10 (09) “…or legs.”

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

Cut 11 (09) “…your home.”

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

Cut 12 (14) “…fun ever” 

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

Cut 13 (12) “…for me.”

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

Cut  14 (11) “remarkable teams”

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

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

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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

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

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

Cut 3 (07) “…institution”

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

Cut 4 (09) “…really well.”

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

Cut 5 (13) “ ..reallocate internally”  

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

Cut 6 (08) “…was located”

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

Cut 7 (11) “…to that.” 

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

Cut 8 (10) “…Greg Brooks.”

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

Cut 9 (12) “…that happens.” 

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

Cut 10 (11) “…Executive Counsel.”

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

Cut 11 (12) “…wait and see.”

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

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

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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

Cut 3 (13) “…football game.”

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

Cut 4 (12) “…in practice.”

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

Cut 5 (15) “ ..blessed man”  

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

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

Cut 6 (09) “…the primary.”

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

Cut 7 (10) “…Democrat is.” 

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

Cut 8 (12) “…not working.”

The primary election will be held on October 14th.

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

Cut 9 (11) “…the hospital (x2).” 

The two deputies are recovering at home.

Pierce says it was a frightening experience for everyone involved…

Cut 10 (13) “…after that.”

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

Cut 11 (09) “…anywhere.”

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

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

Cut 12 (08) “…market has increased” 

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

Cut 13 (06) “…keep up.”

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

Cut  14 (09) “the good”

The federal minimum wage has not been increased since 2007.

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

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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

Cut 3 (33) …I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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

Cut 4 (09) “…infrastructure.”

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

Cut 5 (10) “…to happen.”

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

Cut 6 (11) “…tough choices.”

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

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

Cut 7 (10) “…support legalization.”

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

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

Cut 8 (11) “…I’ve seen.” 

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

Cut 9 (12)  “…constituents are.”

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

Cut 10 (04) “…a hoax.”

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

Cut 11 (09) “…in North Carolina.”

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

Cut 12 (10) “…don’t work.” 

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

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

Cut 13 (12) “…right now.”

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

Cut 14 (11) “…of things.”

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

Cut 15 (12) “…might need”

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

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

Cut 16 (18) “…problem to have”

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

Cut 17 (16) “…game plan”

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

Cut 18 (18) “…against us.”

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

Cut 19 (18) “…opportunity”

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

Cut 20 (19) “..with him”