Christmas Town Christmas Tree farm in Tangipahoa Parish announced they are closing for the 2023 season due to extreme drought. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Treasurer John Schroder launches an attack ad linking gubernatorial opponent Jeff Landry to a Texas attorney accused of scamming property owners after the 2020 hurricanes. Brooke Thorington has more…

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

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This year’s Christmas Grinch is the state’s extreme drought. Christmas Town, a tree farm in Tangipahoa Parish, will not open for business this year. Owner Lisa Miller says drought and extreme temperatures killed too many trees

Cut 3 (09) “…as well.”

Tangipahoa Parish is classified as being under exceptional drought according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. The farm, which offers customers the chance to cut down their own trees, has been in business for 14 years. Miller says a large portion of her harvest could not handle this year’s dry heat.

Cut 4 (08) “…finished yet.”

It takes seven to nine years to grow a 6-foot to 8-foot marketable size Christmas tree. She hopes to preserve the tradition next Christmas.

Cut 5 (12) “ … next year.” 

The Southern Christmas Tree Association says the Christmas Town farm is the only one they know of that will not be open this season. Other farms have lost trees but not to the extent of Christmas Town.

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Treasurer John Schroder launches an attack ad linking gubernatorial opponent Jeff Landry to a Texas attorney accused of scamming property owners after the 2020 hurricanes. ULM Political Science Professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says it’s a topic that south Louisiana residents are familiar with…

Cut 6 (11) “…the needle.”

Tonight is the first statewide televised debate with five of the seven viable gubernatorial candidates. Landry is not participating, and Stockley says Schroder it’s not a coincidence the ad started today…

Cut 7 (10) “…accusations.” 

Stockley believes the strategy is not only to get Schroder into a runoff…

Cut 8 (09) “…candidate events.”

Today’s debate begins at 7 p.m.

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Brutally hot and dry weather has kept 95 percent of the state in drought conditions, according to the U-S Drought Monitor. State climatologist Barry Keim says the areas in “extreme and exceptional” drought conditions have gotten worse.

Cut 9 (12) “…move forward.” 

The southwest corner of Louisiana is classified as exceptionally dry along with Northshore and the Baton Rouge area. In exceptional drought, fishing is compromised, pasture and crop loss is widespread, and water shortages are implemented. Keim says almost 70 percent of the state is D3 or D4 status.

Cut 10 (08) “…across Louisiana”

The extreme northern part of the state is not experiencing drought or abnormally dry conditions. Keim says the conditions in the extreme southeastern part of the state have improved.

Cut 11 (12) “…last week”

The U-S Drought Monitor, released every Thursday, shows how bad drought conditions are across the country.

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LSU coach Kim Mulkey has reportedly agreed to a ten-year contract worth 32-million dollars, which would be the richest total contract in women’s college basketball history. LSU won the first national championship in program history last April and the Advocate’s Scott Rabalais says it took Mulkey only two seasons to reach the top…

Cut 12 (10) “…once again”

The LSU Board of the Supervisors is expected to approve the record deal tomorrow.

Mulkey has won four national championships and turned 61 in May. She experienced a health scare in June and had a procedure to put in two stents to alleviate a blocked heart artery. Rabalais says it will be interesting to see if Mulkey coaches another ten years, but she’s good to go for now…

Cut 13 (09) “…like that”

Women’s basketball is not a revenue generating sport, but Rabalais says LSU’s athletic director looks at Mulkey’s new contract as a wise investment…

Cut  14 (12) “…dollars and sense.”

The state Department of Transportation announces there will be lane closures on I-20 in the Shreveport-Bossier City area for the next two and a half years because that highway will be getting new pavement starting September 18th. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “….I’m  Teiko Foxx”

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The first televised debate in the 2023 governor’s race is tonight. Brooke Thorington on what to expect.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Despite the recent rain, the statewide burn ban remains in effect. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 3 (33) …I’m Brooke Thorington”

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The state Department of Transportation announces a 117 million dollar construction project will begin on I-20 in Bossier and Caddo Parishes on September 18th. DOTD Spokesperson Erin Buchanan says workers will spend the next two and a half years replacing the original pavement from the 1960s.

Cut 4 (08) “… the top.”

The work will result in lane closures. The interstate will be reduced to one lane from Hamilton Road to Industrial Drive in both directions. Buchanan says a real-time traffic system will alert motorists to changing traffic conditions.

Cut 5 (08) “…alternate routes.”

Motorists are urged to use I-220 as an alternate route. The work will be performed at night to minimize traffic. Buchanan says reconstruction work will also be underway from Pines Road to Market Street on the west end.

Cut 6 (11) “…as well.”

This section of the interstate services 70 to 100 thousand vehicles daily. The project is scheduled to be completed by 2025.

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Five of the seven major candidates will participate in the first televised debate for the 2023 governor’s race tonight. Republican Jeff Landry refuses to participate because he says the organizer, the Urban League is biased toward Democrats. UNO Political Science professor Dr. Ed Chervenak says it’s unfortunate because voters are interested in what Landry has to say.

Cut 7 (10) “…front-runner.”

Republican Representative Richard Nelson was not invited to participate due to low polling numbers.

With fellow Republicans and Independent Hunter Lundy polling in the single digits, Chervenak says they’ll need to capture viewers’ attention and set themselves apart.

Present or not, Chervenak believes the candidates will go after Landry.

Cut 8 (11) “…Republicans.”

And even though two of the seven viable candidates will be missing,  Chervenak thinks voters will still tune in to get a better idea of what the participating candidates’ plans are for Louisiana.

Cut 9 (11)  “…direction.”

The debate at, WWL-TV’s studio in New Orlean will be televised statewide tonight at 7 pm. KATC, WBRZ, and KTBS are also sponsoring tonight’s debate.

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Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says they are once again taking applications from insurance companies who are interested in receiving grant dollars if they write more homeowners insurance policies. Donelon says they allocated 42-million dollars to eight insurers following the first round of applications and it resulted in thousands of homeowners finding coverage through a private insurer…

Cut 10 (04) “…since April.”

Donelon says many of the new policies were written in southeast Louisiana…

Cut 11 (14) “…22-hundred”

Donelon says the total amount of grant funds during this second application period is 13 million dollars. He says the goal is to reduce the number of homes that have coverage through the state-run insurer of last resort Citizens, which by state law has to offer policies with more expensive premiums…

Cut 12 (09) “…Citizens insurance.”

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The statewide burn ban remains in effect, even though parts of the state have received rain, but officials say it’s not enough to reduce the increased risk of fire due to the prolonged drought. State Fire Marshal spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue…

Cut 13 (11) “…fire service (x2).”

Despite recent rains near some of the ongoing wildfires, Rodrigue says those blazes remain active.

Cut 14 (08) “…those scenes.”

The State Fire Marshal’s Office, however, says residents can resume outdoor cooking, but Rodrigue encourages those who do grill out to have safety measures in place before they light up.

Cut 15 (09) “…cooking there.”

At Tiger Stadium tailgaters have been asked not to grill out for LSU’s home opener against Grambling on Saturday.

The state’s burn ban will be reconsidered on a weekly basis.

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The regular season opener is fast approaching for the Saints, who will face the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. New starting quarterback Derek Carr believes the Black and Gold will have a great season

Cut 16 (16) “…this week.”

Carr expects Tennessee head coach Mike Vrabel to bring a physical style of play to the Superdome on Sunday…

Cut 17 (14) “…he’s coaching that.”

Carr on the importance of winning the first game…

Cut 18 (12) “…even better.”

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LSU defensive tackle Maason Smith will make his season debut on Saturday night when the Tigers host Grambling. Smith was suspended for the season opener for getting paid for autographs before NIL took effect. Coach Brian Kelly says it will be Smith’s first game since last September…

Cut 19 (19) “…impact the game.”

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Louisiana Tech will host north Louisiana rival Northwestern State on Saturday. Bulldogs Coach Sonny Cumbie says the stakes get raised when you play another team from Louisiana…

Cut 20 (20) “…football team.”

The Bulldogs are 1-1 after losing to SMU last week, Northwestern State dropped its season opener to U-L Lafayette.

Singer Jimmy Buffett died Friday from a rare skin cancer called Merkel cell carcinoma. Teiko Foxx spoke with an LSU Oncologist expert about the aggressive disease.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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The first televised debate of the 2023 governor’s race is tomorrow night, but the front-runner will not be there. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (28)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Margaritaville Singer Jimmy Buffett died as a result of merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare but aggressive form of skin cancer, diagnosed in less than three thousand people in the U-S every year. LSU School of Medicine Oncologist Dr. Brian Boulmay says the disease develops on areas of the body that are regularly exposed to natural or artificial sources of light.

Cut 3 (12) “…any kind.”

MCC tumors show up on the forearm, neck, face, and lower legs. It quickly spreads to the lymph nodes first and then to the liver, bones, lungs, and brain. Boulmay suggests contacting your physician if you see a mole, freckle, or bump that is changing in size, shape, or color.

Cut 4 (11) “…be biopsied.”

Men are twice as likely to develop this cancer than women. About 90 percent of the people who have it are White, and about 80 percent are 70 and older. Boulmay says early detection is key but you can protect yourself.

Cut 5 (11) “ … for cancer.” 

The survival rate of MCC is 51 percent when the cancer is confined to one spot on the body.

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Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy was asked his thoughts on Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell’s health after the Kentucky lawmaker appeared to freeze in front of the public on at least two occasions. Cassidy, who’s also a physician says he’s satisfied with the U.S. Capitol attending physician’s report.

Cut 6 (08) “…caucus.”

The physician’s report says McConnell has not suffered a stroke or a seizure disorder.

Concerns about the 81-year-old’s health have generated calls for his resignation and reignited the debate on term limits for members of Congress. Cassidy is satisfied with the physician’s report and McConnell’s role in the Senate.

Cut 7 (11) “…minority leader.” 

Fellow Kentucky lawmaker Rand Paul criticized the Capitol attending physician’s report. Paul believes McConnell had a seizure. Cassidy says he’s going to go with the report of the healthcare provider who actually examined McConnell.

Cut 8 (11) “…most significant.”

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The first televised debate of the 2023 governor’s race is tomorrow. Five of the candidates will discuss the issues facing Louisiana at 7 PM at WWL-TV’s studio in New Orleans. But the front-runner, Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry, will not be there. Landry says one of the organizers the Urban League has a bias towards Democrats

Cut 9 (09) “…anti-Donald Trump.” 

The Urban League says they do not have any bias towards a particular candidate. Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson will also not participate tomorrow, because his polling numbers are not high enough.

Landry says one of his criteria to attend a debate is that all seven major candidates appear on stage…

Cut 10 (05) “…a whole”

Early voting for the October 14th election begins Saturday, September 30th. Landry has an estimated eight million dollars in cash on hand. The Attorney General says it’s a sign that voters believe he’s the right guy for the job…

Cut 11 (08) “…our message”

Campaign finance reports from all candidates are due September 14th.

Three more people have arrested in connection with last Friday night’s fatal shooting during the Brusly-Port Allen football game in West Baton Rouge Parish. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo”

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In an update, Beauregard Parish authorities say the Tiger Island Fire continues to burn but the situation is looking better. Teiko Foxx has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

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Louisiana has received a 73-million dollar federal grant to build electronic vehicle charging stations and the state  is looking for businesses that want to operate and maintain the stations. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 3 (32) …I’m Brooke Thorington”

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West Baton Rouge Parish authorities announce three more people have been arrested for their role in a fatal shooting at a high school football game that left 15-year-old Ja’Kobe Queen dead. West Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff Mike Cazes…

Cut 4 (07) “… his life.”

The suspect, 18-year-old Jarrettin Ranaud Jackson II, was arrested Monday in Baton Rouge. Jackson is charged with second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder, carrying a firearm on school property, and possession of a machine gun.

28-year-old Brasia Davis of Port Allen was also injured at the 52^nd Sugar Cane Classic, an annual match-up between Port Allen and Brusly high schools.

18-year-old Jailyn Smith and two other juveniles were also arrested in connection with the shooting. They face obstruction of justice, manslaughter, and disturbing the peace charges.

18^th Judicial District Attorney Tony Clayton says it’s a tragedy that’s impacted several lives.

Cut 5 (15) “… peripheral folks.”

Even with a large presence of law enforcement on-site, Cazes says Queen’s life ended Friday.

Cut 6 (10) “…behind you”

The school district plans to use scanners and limit entrances for future football games.

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Despite some rain over Labor Day weekend, the Tiger Island wildfire, the state’s largest in history, is still active. We spoke with Beauregard Parish Sheriff Mark Herford who says progress continues but they’re not out of the woods yet.

Cut 7 (11) “…well-contained.”

The fire has burned over 31 thousand acres. Herford says crews are working to reinforce dozer lines around the town of Merryville to withstand any possible advancing fire. He says there are still a few active spots but the fire remains within the current footprint.

Cut 8 (10) “…this fire.”

The Southern Area Red Incident Team continues to mop up operations along LA 110 between Singer and Merryville.  Herford says more than 330 people are working to assist with the Tiger Island fire. He says this is an unprecedented situation and the statewide burn ban is still active.

Cut 9 (12)  “…dangerous situation.”

Authorities believe the Tiger Island fire is arson-related. The Louisiana Forestry Association is offering up to two thousand dollars to anyone with information leading to an arrest and conviction. If you have information, call LDAF, Beauregard Parish Sheriff, or local law enforcement.

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State Transportation is looking for partners to build and maintain electric vehicle charging stations. DOTD Chief Maintenance Engineer Kevin Reed says 80 percent of the costs of the charging stations are funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and the potential businesses will fund the remaining 20 percent.

Cut 10 (11) “…sites up.”

Louisiana is receiving $73 million from the IIJA. Reed says he expects to see more charging stations as a result of the grant program in Louisiana around this time next year.

Reed says an example of a business that would be interested in being part of the private-public partnership would be a truck stop or a gas station that has the infrastructure and wants to add EV charging stations.

Cut 11 (12) “…these grants”

Cost estimates for the charging stations per site range from $750,000 to a million. Reed says it takes a lot of utility upgrades in some cases for the extremely robust charging stations. Unlike plugging your car into a socket in your garage and charging your vehicle for 12 hours…

Cut 12 (05) “…twenty-minutes”

Currently in Louisiana, Reed says there’s not a large presence of EV charging stations, but the purpose of the grant is to build a national network of them to encourage more individuals to purchase alternative fuel vehicles.

For more information for those businesses who are interested in applying for the grants visit DOTD.la.gov

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West Monroe Football Coach Todd Garvin has been placed on administrative leave until further notice. KNOE TV Sports Director Aaron Dietrich says Principal Dan Lane made the decision after a player was hospitalized due to heat illness as he was apparently worked too hard during Monday’s practice…

Cut 13 (07) “…all the details.”

Dietrich says four players have been sent to the hospital suffering from heat exhaustion since Garvin took over in May…

Cut 14 (11) “…after practice”

The Ouachita Citizen reports the player that went the hospital on Monday was doing extra work because he missed practice the week before because of COVID.

Garvin is trying to bring West Monroe back to its glory years. Dietrich says the Rebels have won eight state championships, but none since 2011…

Cut 15 (11) “… play out”

Offensive coordinator Kevin Davis will serve as acting head coach. West Monroe beat Sterlington last Friday and will head to East Ascension this Friday.

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After getting beat 45-24 on Sunday night in Orlando, Coach Brian Kelly says they are re-assessing everything that includes the use of linebacker Harold Perkins. Perkins was an all-American as an outside linebacker last year, but he’s playing middle linebacker this season and only had five sacks on Sunday. Coach Brian Kelly says they want to do what’s best for Perkins and the team….

Cut 16 (22) “…and LSU”

There was a lot of talk in the preseason about Alabama transfer Aaron Anderson solving LSU’s punt return woes from a season ago. But Anderson muffed a punt in the first half against Florida State. Kelly says the former Edna Karr star will continue to return punts…

Cut 17 (19) “…squirt out”

LSU’s secondary had trouble keeping up with Florida State’s talented receivers. Kelly says his defensive backs could have played

Cut 18 (18) “…be there”

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ULM is looking to go 2-0 on the season this Saturday when they host Lamar out of the Southland Conference. The Warhawks rallied to beat Army 17-13 last Saturday in Malone Stadium. Coach Terry Bowden liked the fight he saw from his team

Cut 19 (14) “…our way”

ULM forced five turnovers in the victory. Last year the Warhawks were last in the Sun Belt in giving up 34 points a game. But Bowden knows his defense is better this year…

Cut 20 (14) “…off the track”

Record high temperatures and drought stress could slow spring production for the crawfish industry statewide. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Republican Jeff Landry reports more than $8 million in cash on hand and $3 million raised since July for the gubernatorial race. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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While crawfish season begins in January, drought conditions could have an impact on the state’s $230 million dollar crawfish industry.  LSU AgCenter Area Agent for crawfish production Todd Fontenot says producers are already flushing their fields to reduce cracking.

Cut 3 (12) “…for them.”

The bulk of crawfish production in Evangeline, Allen, St. Landry, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis, and Acadia are rice-crawfish rotation ponds. In those fields, water is drained between early July and early August to facilitate rice harvest. Fontenot says producers have to make sure rice grows because it’s a food source for crawfish in the winter.

Cut 4 (12) “…to them.”

Fontenot says the lack of rain increases salt levels in water sources. He points out that flushing introduces a salinity problem for crawfish producers.

Cut 5 (12) “ … irrigation water.” 

Nearly 300 thousand acres are dedicated to crawfish farming in Louisiana.

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With just over five weeks until the October 14^th primary, Republican Jeff Landry reports more than $8 million cash on hand, and since July he’s raised $3 million. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says it’s not just the money that’s in Landry’s corner, but it’s the gubernatorial campaign he’s running as well.

Cut 6 (05) “…impressive.”

Landry received the backing of the state GOP before other Republicans jumped in the race and multiple endorsements followed.

Pinsonat said Landry’s campaign momentum is so strong that even an ethics complaint about the use of a private airplane from a GOP donor to attend a conference two years ago will not negatively impact him. Pinsonat said while Landry would prefer if the complaint did not come to light…

Cut 7 (05) “…his campaign.” 

And with four other Republicans in the governor’s race, Pinsonat says at this point, even if they received a substantial amount of cash, they probably wouldn’t be able to steal any of Landry’s thunder.

Cut 8 (12) “…the runoff.”

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

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After seven inmates escaped from the Women’s Jail Facility in Cottonport this morning, two remain on the run. Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Tim Ryan says it appears they were able to defeat a locking mechanism on a fire escape door.

Cut 9 (06) “…still ongoing.” 

Ryan says five of the seven escapees were quickly captured but two remain on the run.

Cut 10 (08) “…Wooten”

23-year-old Autoria Lachney of Marksville, also known as Tori, is described as a black female, and 24-year-old Gerri Wooten of Jonesville is a white female.

Three of the inmates were captured in the Bunkie area by APSO deputies. Two others were located via an APSO investigation and with the assistance of the RLSS Chase Team. The escapees were reportedly given a ride to various locations in the Bunkie area and Ryan wouldn’t say if they believe it was a coordinated effort with individuals outside the facility.

Cut 11 (06) “…that yet.”

If you have any information on the two women, you are asked to call law enforcement.

The National Republican Governors Association launches an attack ad against former state transportation secretary and Democrat Shawn Wilson in the governor’s race. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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It’s Labor Day, so what does Louisiana’s labor market look like? Teiko Foxx has that story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The National Republican Governors Association is getting into the fray of things here in Louisiana, with a TV attack ad against Democrat Shawn Wilson. ULM Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says the ad points out road and bridge issues under Wilson’s tenure as secretary of the state Department of Transportation.

Cut 3 (07) …presenting that.”

Cross says the attack ad indicates the NRGA believes frontrunner Republican Jeff Landry will most likely face Wilson in a runoff.

But will the ad make a difference? Cross believes so because voters want a good return on investment from their leaders.

Cut 4 (09) “…later on.”

Cross says state funding for DOTD from the gas tax hasn’t been increased for decades. Even though the Edwards administration tried it was met with resistance from the Republican-controlled legislature. Cross says so it’s harder to say what kind of job Wilson has done in that position.

Cut 5 (10) “…eight years.”

The primary election is scheduled for October 14^th.

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Thanks to 25 million dollars from the Infrastructure Law and another 12-million from the U-S Fish and Wildlife Service, over 580 orphaned wells have been plugged since mid-January. Louisiana Department of Natural Resources spokesperson Patrick Courreges…

Cut 6 (11) “…600”

The state has roughly 45-hundred orphaned well sites, most are in the Shreveport-Monroe area. Courreges says these wells have the potential to contaminate water supplies and they can emit methane or other air pollutants…

Cut 7 (09) “…with cement”

Courreges says once this current funding runs out, they expect to get more….

Cut 8 (12) “…in a hurry”

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It’s Labor Day. So what does the labor market look like in Louisiana? We asked University of Louisiana at Lafayette Economist Gary Wagner who says labor market conditions are looking favorable

Cut 9 (10)  “…good clip.”

Wagner says the sectors leading the way in increased employment are construction, education, and health service. He says there’s also been an uptick in the oil and gas sector.

Cut 10 (12) “…as well.”

Labor numbers show Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Lafayette are the strongest areas for employment. While Lake Charles, Houma-Thibodaux, and Alexandria are struggling. Wagner says labor market figures show higher than normal turnovers in sectors like leisure and hospitality, and professional business services.

Cut 11 (11) “…normally would.”

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5th-ranked LSU was completely outclassed in the second half last night and lost to eighth-ranked Florida State 45 to 24 as the Tigers lost their season opener for a fourth consecutive season. Coach Brian Kelly’s team led 17-14 at halftime but F-S-U scored 31 unanswered points…

Cut 12 (09) “…second half”

LSU failed to score twice in the red zone in the first half, they muffed another punt and the defense had no answers for Florida State’s offense as quarterback Jordan Travis threw four touchdown passes, three of them to Opelousas native Keon Coleman. Kelly did not expect such a bad performance…

Cut 13 (11) “…have to own.”

LSU came into this contest as a national title contender, but will likely have to win the rest of its regular season games to be in contention for a spot in the college football playoff. Kelly says the team lacked urgency in the second half…

Cut 14 (11) “…mistaken”

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ULM rallied from a 10-point deficit in the fourth quarter to beat Army 17-13 on Saturday. Down 13-3 in the fourth quarter, Coach Terry Bowden turned to sophomore quarterback Hunter Herring who threw the winning touchdown pass. Bowden says Herring was what the Warhawks needed…

Cut 15  (15) “…because of that”

Herring was 4-of-9 for 22 yards and a touchdown. He also rushed for 13 yards. Senior Jiya Wright started and was 10-of-21 for 70 yards and two interceptions. Bowden says Herring will start this Saturday against Lamar…

Cut 16 (16) “…  same thing”

The Drive Sober Or Get Pulled Over campaign is underway so law enforcement is working overtime to find drunk drivers. Teiko Foxx has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

______________________________________

LSU and Florida State will meet Sunday night in a Top 10 showdown. Jeff Palermo has a preview…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign goes through the Labor Day weekend. Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Spokesperson Greg Fischer is encouraging drivers to be sober behind the wheel because data out of LSU shows 38 people died in crashes over Labor Day weekend between 2017 and 2021.

Cut 3 (09) “…the weekend.”

In 2021, 349 people died in crashes in Louisiana where a driver had been drinking, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Fischer says polysubstance abuse is a huge problem and it presents a greater challenge.

Cut 4 (12) “…these days.”

Fischer says there’s a responsible way to enjoy the holiday safely by planning for a sober driver. He said to keep an eye on your friends and step up if needed.

Cut 5 (11) “ … maybe.” 

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If you’re hitting the road for Labor Day Weekend, Triple-A says expect to pay an average of $3.40 a gallon for regular gas in the Gulf south. Fuel analyst Don Redman says Mississippi has the best price of around $3.30 a gallon.  Motorists in Louisiana, Texas, and Alabama this weekend will see prices range between $3.30 and $3.40 a gallon of regular gas.

Cut 6 (07) “…hurricane.”

When you compare prices to this time last year, Redman says it’s about the same. And even though the price of crude is selling for around $85 a barrel…

Cut 7 (11) “…a pause.” 

He says that the pause is because investors are still unsure about the global economy, and how China and other countries that are bidding for oil on the market.

If you’re headed over to Orlando for the LSU/FSU game Redman says to check your hotel reservation and make sure you haven’t been bumped by those displaced by the hurricane. Gas-wise expect to pay around $3.70 a gallon but the biggest concern is whether there will even be gasoline in certain areas of the Sunshine State.

Cut 8 (04) “…to Orlando.”

Today average price in Louisiana for regular gas is $3.37 a gallon, down two cents from a month ago, and a penny from this time last year.

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Due to ongoing wildfires, state officials are urging Louisiana residents not to light a flame outside and that means no grilling or Labor Day barbecues. Ag and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain urges the public not to burn anything during statewide the burn ban.

Cut 9 (12) “…get started“

The Tiger Island fire, which consumed more than 31,000 acres, is 50 percent contained.

Even with rainfall in the forecast for parts of Louisiana this weekend, Strain says that the danger of additional wildfires is not over and lightning could be a threat…

Cut 10 (12) “…forest fire”

Strain says firefighters were still knocking down hotspots to keep fires from reigniting. He urges the public to follow the state’s burn ban.

Cut 11 (12) “…work together.”

Violators could face jail time, fines, or could be forced to pay restitution for loss of property…

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No. 5 LSU and No. 8 Florida State finally play each other this weekend on Sunday at 6:30 p.m. central time. The Tigers lost to the Seminoles 24-23 last season after a blocked extra point. This is the only top-10 matchup of the weekend, and Coach Brian Kelly says that both team’s play styles are very similar.

Cut 12 (13) “…lot of ways.”

Florida State has many pass catchers that can make plays down the field, including 6’7″ wideout Johnny Wilson and former Opelousas Catholic star Keon Coleman. Kelly says his secondary is ready for the challenge…

Cut 13 (07) “…down the field.”

The game is being played at a neutral site in Orlando. Even though the game site is 4 hours from Tallahassee, Kelly says they are preparing for a hostile crowd.

Cut  14 (08) “…Florida State.”

Fire crews from multiple parishes, cities, and other states continue to respond to the numerous wildfires that have plagued Louisiana this summer. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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State officials are urging Louisiana residents not to use any open flame during these extremely dry conditions that includes barbecuing even at tailgate parties…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”  

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The Tiger Island Fire in Beauregard Parish and the one on Highway 113 in Vernon Parish both broke containment last night. State Ag and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain says the blaze at Highway 113 was making a run towards the town of Pitkin.

Cut 3 (11) “…that down.”

He says the Tiger Island fire also made a run last night but it’s now once again back under control and there was a flare-up of a wildfire in Calcasieu Parish.

Strain is asking for the public’s assistance in locating the arsonist in connection with the wildfires in Vernon Parish that have been active for more than a week. He says a majority of the blazes are caused by natural or mechanical causes, however…

Cut 4 (11) “…was arson.”

If you have any information about the Lion’s Campfire blaze or any other arson-related wildfires call the Department of Ag, the State Fire Marshal’s office, or local law enforcement. The Louisiana Forestry Association is offering up to a $2,000 cash reward.

Cut 5 (11) “ …multiple arrests.” 

Strain says the latest drought monitoring report indicates the vast majority of the state is listed in extreme and exceptional drought.

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You may want to cook your burgers and hot dogs indoors for Labor Day and Game Day this year. State officials say it would be too risky to light your grill under the statewide burn ban. Director of the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Casey Tingle says we need to prevent what is already a serious situation from becoming worse.

Cut 6 (11) “…helpful here.”

The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry has issued more than 30 citations for violating the burn ban.  Under the current revision, cars and trucks should not be parked on dry grass as tailpipes and other hot car parts can start a fire.

Tingle says as far as tailgating, colleges and universities will determine what the right fit is for them.

Cut 7 (12) “…already in.” 

There have been 600 wildfires during August in Louisiana, and over 50,000 acres of land have been burned and two people died. Tingle urges the public to avoid cooking with open flames.

Cut 8 (10) “…the first place.”

Violation of the burn ban order could result in criminal and/or civil penalties. 

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State police have released more information on the officer-involved shooting that took place Saturday in Vinton. Trooper Derek Senegal says it all started when Cameron Parish Sheriff Deputies attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by a man from Texas.

Cut 9 (10) “…pursuit ensued”

34-year-old Spencer Wilson led a pursuit northbound on LA 27 and passed through several streets in Carlyss and Sulphur. Senegal says Wilson hit a ditch and exited the vehicle towards a nearby open field firing at officers with a fully automatic rifle.

Cut 10 (10) “…coroners office”

At least five officers returned fire. Senegal says the female passenger was located near the crash scene.

Cut 11 (10) “…gunshot wound.”

The investigation is ongoing.

LSU scientists have received a patent for a bait that’s designed to limit the spread of wild hogs, but the solution might not get rid of them all. Pierson Luscy has more.

Cut 1 (27)  “….I’m Pierson Luscy.”

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A public meeting will be held today from 4-7 PM at the Lake Charles Civic Center to discuss a new Calcasieu River I-10 bridge that would be partially paid for by tolls. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Next year, Louisiana will celebrate Mardi Gras a month early and promote tourism to the Bayou State at the annual Tournament of Roses parade in Pasadena, California. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 3 (31) …I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Scientists with the LSU AgCenter and LSU Department of Chemistry have received a patent for a bait to kill off feral hogs. The bait has the consistency of gummy bears, it’s about the size of a golf ball and it tastes fishy. LSU AgCenter animal specialist Glen Gentry says this is a milestone for them…

Cut 4 (08) “…pigs completely.”

There are an estimated one million feral hogs in the state that produce 91 million dollars in damages every year. Gentry says they are still looking at ways to deliver the bait…

Cut 5 (07) “…field trials.”

Gentry says the bait uses sodium nitrate, which is lethal to feral swine. He says within three hours of consuming the bait, hogs become sleepy and die

Cut 6 (09) “…the FDA.”

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation holds a public meeting at the Lake Charles Civic Center today from 4:00 to 7:00 PM to discuss the $2 billion dollar expansion of the Calcasieu River Interstate 10 bridge including its tolls and aesthetics. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallet says residents can view computer-generated visuals and multimedia presentations on the project

Cut 7 (09) “…the meeting.”

Toll rates range from 25 cents for local motorists with tags to $12.50 for a large truck with a tag. Mallet says toll charges were set at 2023 dollars and will be adjusted over time based on the consumer price index. He says preliminary rates were minimized because funding will be combined with a variety of funding sources.

Cut 8 (10) “…they are.”

Mallett says in September members of the House and Senate Transportation Committee will vote in favor or against the Calcasieu Bridge Partners proposal for a cost of $2 billion dollars and tolls…

Cut 9 (12)  “…transportation committee.”

A panel question and answer session will be held from 6:00 to 7:00 pm.

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For the third year in a row, Louisiana will have a float in the 2024 Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California to promote tourism. This year’s parade theme is “Celebrating a World of Music: The Universal Language.” Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser says in a world of different cultures, the theme of music unites us all.

Cut 10 (11) “…of Louisiana.”

The float will feature a larger-than-life Mardi Gras jester, fleur de lis, second-line inspired umbrellas, and lots of purple, green, and gold. Nungesser hopes this will be another award-winning float that exposes all that the Bayou State has to offer.

Cut 11 (10) “…major prize.”

In 2022, Louisiana’s float won the Wrigley Legacy Award for the most outstanding display of floral presentation, float design, and entertainment. Last year’s float won the Showmanship Award for the most outstanding display of showmanship and entertainment.

Nungesser says volunteers are welcome to join this amazing opportunity.

Cut 12 (11) “…our float.”

Louisiana’s participation has reached an estimated four billion viewers and generated $39 million in media advertising value. To volunteer, visit explorelouisiana.com/2024-rose-parade.

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Hurricanes Laura and Delta left an excessive amount of downed trees in southwest Louisiana and those trees are only adding fuel to the wildfires. Ag and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain says there was a federal program to assist landowners in removing downed trees. The average cost is $400 to $500 an acre.

Cut 13 (12) “…go do it.”

And while you might think, why wasn’t the timber immediately harvested and sold after the storms? Strain says downed trees from a hurricane are generally cracked and within about two to three weeks, it’s unusable.

Cut 14 (12) “…another point.”

Strain says these wildfires are unprecedented and once the threat is over, he, along with the governor and other participating agencies plan to review what was done correctly and how they can be more proactive in the future.

Cut 15  (11) “…fire departments.”

Firefighters have been battling the the largest wildfire in the state, the Tiger Island Fire in Beauregard Parish since August 22nd.

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LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels is pumped up for Sunday night’s top-ten matchup against Florida State. Daniels enters the season as a Heisman candidate and he’s put in the work to be the best….

Cut 16 (16) “…1% better.”

LSU and Florida State met in New Orleans last year and Florida State came away with the win 24-23, and Daniels says what the challenge will be facing them this season after much of the Seminoles defense saw Daniels last year.

Cut 17 (23) “…after you.”

Coach Brian Kelly has implored Daniels to push the ball down the field with his arm. Daniels plans to do that, but if he can move the chains with his legs, he’ll do that too…

Cut 18 (20) “…do that.”

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Louisiana Tech got the win against Florida International in week zero, but now Coach Sonny Cumbie and the Bulldogs have turned their attention to a trip to Dallas to play SMU on Saturday.

Cut 19 (20) “…the football.”

Tech rushed for less than three yards a carry last week. Cumbie says after missing last week, Tyre Shelton is practicing this week and he’s moving around well. The coach says Keldric Moody, Jacob Fields, Keith Willis Junior, and freshman Dyson Fields from Ruston High are all getting reps at practice…

Cut 20 (11) “on offense.”

Governor John Bel Edwards expects a lengthy battle against the multiple wildfires that remain burning in the state. Teiko Foxx has the story…

Cut 1 (31)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Congressman Steve Scalise has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Brooke Thorington has more on this type of blood cancer.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Saints have finalized their 53-man roster for the 2023 NFL season, and some big names did not make the list. Pierson Luscy has more.

Cut 3 (31) …I’m Pierson Luscy.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards says there are still several people who are not following the statewide burn ban. Edwards spent yesterday in southwest Louisiana, which has the state’s largest wildfire, the Tiger Island Fire in Beauregard Parish. The governor says the people that are not following the ban are not far away from this fire…

Cut 4 (11) “…not do that.”

Edwards says 60-thousand acres have been burned in Louisiana and the conditions over the next few days will keep these fires going…

Cut 5 (13) “…raging again.”

This is the first time Louisiana has been impacted by wildfires to this level, but the governor fears as a result of climate change, we could see it happen in future summers…

Cut 6 (14) “…adequately respond.”

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Congressman Steve Scalise announced Tuesday he’s been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, which is a cancer of plasma cells found in blood marrow. LSU Health New Orleans Oncologist Dr. Suki Subbiah (Sah-by-ah) says plasma cells are normal cells that are part of our immune system…

Cut 7 (06) “…cancerous.”

Fortunately, today’s treatment includes a combination of three anti-cancer medications. Twenty years ago, Subbiah says a Multiple Myeloma was essentially a death sentence, with a very limited prognosis and life expectancy.

Cut 8 (11) “…undetectable.”

Once in remission, Subbiah says patients can receive a stem cell transplant of their own cells and then receive maintenance therapy which is a lower dose of an anti-cancer medication. And because it’s not curable, the cancer could come back.

She says some individuals will show symptoms like fatigue, decreased appetite, weight loss, bone pain, repeat infections, and numbness in the hands and feet. But others show no symptoms and it’s found in routine bloodwork. Subbiah says there are some risk factors for the disease such as…

Cut 9 (09)  “…individual patient.”

Scalise issued a statement that he’s begun treatment that will go on for several months and plans to continue working while being treated.

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A 3 year old toddler was fatally injured after not being properly restrained in a two-vehicle crash on LA Hwy 877 in East Carroll Parish on Tuesday. Trooper Ryan Davis says Tavorious Hopkins was improperly restrained.

Cut 10 (12) “…a seatbelt.”

Davis says a Dodge Caravan driven by 55-year-old John Vaughn Jr. traveling south failed to come to a stop at the stop sign. The Caravan was struck by a Freightliner towing a grain trailer headed east.

Cut 11 (08) “…moderate injuries.”

Although impairment is not suspected, toxicology samples were submitted. The investigation is ongoing.

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Since the beginning of June, there have been 28 heat-related deaths in Louisiana. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says heat exhaustion and heat stroke can sneak up on you very quickly…

Cut 12 (11) “…eight ball on it.”

And the oppressive temperatures have been responsible for more than 4,700 emergency room visits for heat-related illnesses.

Cut 13 (06) “…hot season.”

Kanter says when you have heat exhaustion you sweat profusely and become exhausted. When you advance to heat stroke your body shows signs you are no longer able to cope, you stop sweating, have confusion, and need immediate medical attention. Kanter says heat stroke can be fatal.

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The Saints made their roster moves to get down to 53 active players. New Orleans will go with kicker Blake Grupe over veteran Wil Lutz, who was traded to the Denver Broncos for a seventh round pick. Coach Dennis Allen says it was not an easy decision.

Cut 14 (15) “…challenging situations.”

Even though there was a flurry of moves to go from a maximum of 90 players to 53 players, Allen says the roster is not done changing.

Cut 15  (15) “…the league.”

Tight end Jimmy Graham made the team after taking a year off from the league and despite being a fan favorite when he came back to New Orleans, his roster spot was in jeopardy until the very end.

Cut 16 (13) “…this team.”

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LSU is preparing to play Florida State without star defensive tackle Maason Smith, who is serving a one game suspension. Kelly says he wishes Smith can play, but he’s got other guys who can get the job done.

Cut 17 (20) “…the surprises.”

Special teams was a problem for LSU last season as they struggled handling punts and kicks. The Tigers had two blocked kicks last year against Florida State. But Kelly says they should be better off this season with Aaron Anderson returning punts and Anderson and Kaleb Jackson returning kicks…

Cut 18 (24) “…influence games”