Smoke from wildfires is impacting air quality in Louisiana. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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Louisiana sugarcane producers set a record by producing more than two million tons of raw sugar last year but this year’s number will be less due to the dry weather. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”  

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In addition to the destruction the wildfires are doing, they also present a health hazard. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says where the fires are and the smoke is, are not always the one in the same.

Cut 3 (08) “…quite far.”

For comparison, Kanter says smoke from Canadian wildfires decreased air quality in areas as far away as the northeastern U.S. Smoke trails can be carried a great distance and most of Louisiana is experiencing a decrease in air quality as a result of the wildfires. Kanter says it’s a good idea to pay attention to local air quality reports.

Cut 4 (09) “…health effects.”

Kanter advises residents to minimize their time outdoors especially if they have a respiratory illness, such as asthma, COPD, emphysema, or even heart disease.

Cut 5 (09) “ ..as possible.” 

With the statewide burn ban still in effect, Kanter implores residents not to burn anything outdoors and that includes lighting up the grill for Labor Day weekend.

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Last year the state set a record, producing more than two million tons of raw sugar last year but growers will not beat that number this year.  Sugarcane Specialist Kenneth Gravois says the heat from June through August will result in a smaller harvest

Cut 6 (12) “…the belt”

Most cane farmers put their plant cane in the ground during late July and early August. Harvest generally begins in September. Gravois says farmers on the western side of the cane belt are severely impacted.

Cut 7 (12) “…cultivate them.” 

While many farmers will have to wait for more rain for soil moisture to go up, Gravois says some cane farmers are seeing pretty good yields.

Cut 8 (12) “…some rain.”

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The Saints will have a new field goal kicker this year. New Orleans has reportedly traded Wil Lutz to the Denver Broncos for a 2024 7th-round pick. The Black and Gold have decided to go with undrafted free agent kicker Blake Grupe instead. Host of the Locked on Saints podcast Ross Jackson says the trade should not come as a surprise.

Cut 9 (12) “…young leg.”

Lutz has been with the team since 2016, but Grupe was brought in as an undrafted free agent out of Notre Dame. Lutz was expected to be the kicker going into the offseason, but Grupe’s success was hard to pass up.

Cut 10 (07) “…preseason game.”

Cornerback Bradley Roby was waived by the Saints today, and is expected to be replaced by second year corner Alontae Taylor at the slot corner position. Taylor and Paulson Adebo have been competing for the second press corner position, but now both will be on the field for the Saints, and it cost Roby his spot on the roster.

Cut 11 (08) “…like that.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards is in southwest Louisiana to get an update on the fight against multiple wildfires. During a press conference in DeRidder, Edwards says the wildfires have destroyed about 60-thousand acres and the recent rainfall the state has seen was not enough to end the drought…

Cut 12 (08) “…from it.”

A front moving through the state has sparked some scattered thunderstorms and showers, but Edwards says behind the front is drier air, higher winds and sunny conditions…

Cut 13 (12) “…they were”

Edwards says hundreds of people are involved in this fight against the wildfires and that includes help from the federal government

Cut  14 (14)  “.. .1,000 people”

The first U-S Gulf offshore wind auction to fuel the gulf coast region’s green hydrogen push takes place today. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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In June, the State Office of Motor Vehicle informed residents of a data breach that put everyone in their system at risk.  Brooke Thorington has more from an expert on what you should do.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Today is the 18^th anniversary of when Katrina made landfall in southeast Louisiana. Brooke Thorington has a look at the recovery

Cut 3 (32) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The first auction of offshore leases for wind power development in the Gulf of Mexico takes place today. Interim LSU Center for Energy Studies Director Greg Upton says a proposed sale for offshore acreage off of Lake Charles and two areas near Galveston will be leased.

Cut 4 (09) “…power grid.”

The tracts of water in the Gulf of Mexico up for auction have the potential to generate 3.7 gigawatts, that’s enough power for nearly 1.3 million homes. Upton says the economics of solar power may be more cost-competitive than offshore wind.

Cut 5 (12) “…economics closely.”

While the Biden administration has set a goal of installing 30 gigawatts of offshore wind energy by 2030, Upton says companies like Entergy are embracing wind energy projects and reducing their carbon footprint.

Cut 6 (12) “…nuclear power.”

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The second Amendment Weekend Sales tax holiday returns to Louisiana this Labor Day weekend. In the past legislative session, the state Legislature reinstated the sales tax holiday, which had been suspended since 2018. L-D-R Secretary Kevin Richard (Ree-shard) says this is a great opportunity for hunters looking to stock up for the upcoming hunting season …

Cut 7 (09) “…in Louisiana.”

Purchases not eligible for the sales tax exemption include hunting dogs, animal feed, off-road vehicles and airboats.

Richard says from Friday to Sunday, you can purchase firearms, ammunition, specified hunting supplies, hunting appear and certain types of knives and not have to pay the state’s 4.45 sales tax…

Cut 8 (10) “…our citizens”

The 2nd amendment sales tax holiday was suspended in 2018 when the state was facing a severe budget shortfall. Richard says a back to school sales tax holiday and a Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax holiday were also suspended….

Cut 9 (09)  “…second amendment holiday”

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It was just over two months ago when the State Office of Motor Vehicles alerted residents that their personal data was compromised in a cyber security breach. James Lee with the Identify Theft Resource Center says it was the MOVEit File Transfer System that OMV used and others affected individuals across the globe.

Cut 10 (12) “…40-million people.”

Lee says they are still finding more and more organizations have been impacted and he expects those numbers to grow. He says there are other states like Louisiana that had an entire database of information stolen.

And while some might think if nothing’s happened by now, they are in the clear, Lee says otherwise. He says criminals are using the information to impersonate people…

Cut 11 (13) “…down the road.”

Lee says there are things that people need to do to protect their information and things you can do to make it less useful when their information is stolen. OMV is offering free credit monitoring service for those with a Louisiana driver’s license or state-issued ID and he says you should take advantage of that. But the most important thing you should do is to freeze your credit.

Cut 12 (07) “…your credit.”

He says you can do that online with credit bureaus and when you need to apply for credit, you unfreeze it, and then when you’ve finished applying you freeze your credit again.

ITRC is a 24-year-old non-profit organization that assists individuals who are victims of identity crimes.

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On this 18^th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina’s powerful landfall in southeast Louisiana, some would argue parts of New Orleans improved while other parts of the city continue to struggle. President of Greater New Orleans, Inc. Michael Hecht says it’s certainly a mixed bag comparing the city before and after.

Cut 13 (13) “…the hurricane.”

As for areas that grew post-Katrina, Hecht says they include the Northshore, St. Tammany, and Tangipahoa Parishes. As for a comeback story, Hecht says his favorite is the Arabi Chalmette area of St. Bernard Parish.

Cut 14 (08) “…the country.” 

Among the misconceptions about Katrina is that only the area of the city that flooded was the Lower Ninth Ward.  Hecht says several areas were inundated with water, but areas that had better resources were able to rebuild.

On the flip side, Hecht, unfortunately, says the Lower Ninth Ward area of the Crescent City is one that has not recovered.  He says often people forget just how vibrant that area of New Orleans once was.

Hecht says residents in the Lower Ninth Ward didn’t have the means to rebuild compared to wealthier parts of the city who did. He says there were unintended consequences on how rebuilding programs were based on the home’s value.

As for where the city is headed, Hecht says there’s enormous opportunity across the economic spectrum and tourism is thriving as well. On the other hand,

Cut 15  (12) “….of the state.”

Today is also the two-year anniversary of Hurricane Ida. Lengthy power restoration was a widespread issue of the Category Four storm.

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We are five days away from 5th-ranked LSU kicking off the season against eighth-ranked Florida State in Orlando. The Seminoles held on for a 24-23 victory last year in the Superdome. Tigers Coach Brian Kelly says he has a better team this year…

Cut 16 (10) “…and execute.”

The Tigers are counting on a big season from quarterback Jayden Daniels. The fifth-year senior QB will be starting his second year with the Tigers, and Kelly says they’ve encouraged Daniels to be more aggressive in the passing game….

Cut 17 (16) “and ten.”

This game features two of the best defensive players in college football, LSU linebacker Harold Perkins and Florida State defensive end Jared Verse. Perkins had 7.5 sacks last season, while Verse had nine. Kelly says they plan to line Perkins up in different spots on the field…

Cut 18 (30) “…as well”

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The Ragin Cajuns kick off the season on Saturday when they host Northwestern State. Michael Desormeaux is entering his second year as the team’s head coach and says what he is most confident in this year.

Cut 19 (20) “…beat yourself.”

Desormeaux believes he has a good team on his hands, but you never really know until you play another opponent…

Cut 20 (20) “…as a team.”

The state’s largest wildfire ever continues to burn in Beauregard Parish. Jeff Palermo has an update…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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An 84-year-old woman lost her life when a trash fire got out of control at her home in the St. Tammany town of Folsom. Teiko Foxx has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”  

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Some much needed rainfall fell across parts of the state over the weekend, but state Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain says the state continues to battle more than 100 fires a day. Strain says lighting strikes are starting some of the fires…

Cut 3 (07) “…ahead of that fire”

Strain says they are fighting some big fires in and around Kisatchie National Forest and Fort Polk…

Cut 4 (10) “…damage happens”

The largest wildfire is in Beauregard Parish. It has consumed more than 33-thousand acres and according to the Department of Agriculture and Forestry The Tiger Island Fire is 50-percent contained. Beauregard Sheriff Mark Herford says the Tiger Island Wildfire will likely burn until they get some good, long rain, which is not in the forecast anytime soon.

Cut 5 (09) “ ..top to top.” 

This is day eight of the wildfires in Beauregard Parish. Herford says his local firefighters are to the point of exhaustion. He says they are receiving help from outside of Louisiana…

Cut 6 (12) “…in wildfire”

Strain says they believe arson is the cause of multiple wildfires that devastated the area near Union Hill in southwest Rapides Parish. He says they need the public’s help in finding the culprits. And 41-year-old Ryan Miller of Independence was cited for criminal negligence for starting a trash fire that got out of control and burned more than 170 acres near Amite.

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An 84-year-old Folsom woman, who was burning trash piles on her property, has died after being rescued from a brush fire at her home on Sunday. State Fire Marshal spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says while conducting proactive patrols in St. Tammany Parish looking for burn ban violators, a deputy, and a volunteer firefighter spotted a brush fire off of LA 25.

Cut 7 (09) “…still alive.” 

The fire spread to a neighboring property but firefighters were able to extinguish the fire. The woman’s husband was at home at the time but did not know what she was doing outside. Rodrigue says deputies believe the woman was burning a debris pile when for an unknown reason she fell.

Cut 8 (11) “…her there.”

The elderly female was taken to a New Orleans hospital in critical condition but later died. Rodrigue urges the public to follow the burn ban

Cut 9 (12) “…wildfire dangers.”

A statewide burn ban remains active and violators could face civil or criminal penalties.

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Former Louisiana legislator and ULM employee Dr. Charles McDonald passed away Saturday. McDonald served as the Director of Counseling, Placement, and Testing and the Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships. ULM President Dr. Ron Berry says in January, they honored him with the naming of the Dr. Charles R. McDonald Office of Financial Aid. Berry says the room was packed with former students.

Cut 10 (07) “…many people.”

McDonald spent more than two decades at ULM and was elected to serve in the State House of Representatives in 1991. In 2017, Berry says McDonald was honored with an appointment to serve on the Board of Regents.

Cut 11 (08) “…at ULM.”

As a legislator, McDonald served as Chair of the House Education Committee and was a lead author of TOPS. Berry says McDonald had a great understanding of the financial hardships students faced with higher education. Berry says TOPS serves almost 60-thousand students in Louisiana annually.

Cut 12 (12) “…he created.”

A service will be held at First Methodist of Monroe on Wednesday. McDonald was 84.

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Monroe native and former Neville star Will Campbell has been awarded the seven jersey, becoming the first LSU offensive lineman to have the opportunity to wear number seven, since the school started assigning that number to the team’s top playmaker. Coach Brian Kelly…

Cut 13 (08) “…offensive lineman”

The NCAA does not allow for an offensive lineman to wear a single digit number, so Campbell will have a number seven patch on his jersey instead. Kelly says the spirit of the number seven jersey will remain the same

Cut  14 (11)  “.. .positive way”

An appeals court threw out the conviction and death sentence for Jarrell Neal who was convicted on two counts of first-degree murder for a fatal 1998 shooting in Metairie. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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You might notice there are less insects bugging you, and it turns out it’s one of the only good things coming from the ongoing drought. Pierson Luscy has the story.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Pierson Luscy.”

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Mortgage rates have pushed to a 22-year high but homeowner insurance rates might be a bigger factor when it comes to purchasing a home. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 3 (32) …I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Has the unrelenting heat impacted your favorite eatery? Stan Harris, President of the Louisiana Restaurant Association says while outdoor dining is practically nonexistent with the extreme temps, he’s hopeful with school back in session restaurants will experience the traditional seasonal uptick in business.

Cut 4 (04) “…eat again.”

And while increasing inflation has eased a bit, Harris says from a financial standpoint restaurants are still facing hurdles.

Cut 5 (12) “…five years ago.”

As for the outlook for restaurants, Harris says the oppressive temperatures have also affected cattle in the Midwest, and it’s bound to impact the price of beef and dairy products.

Cut 6 (12) “…as well.”

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An appeals court has thrown out the conviction and death sentence for Jarrell Neal who was convicted on two counts of first-degree murder for the 1998 Metairie shooting deaths of Greg Vickers and Fergus Robinson. Executive Director of the Capital Appeals Project Cecelia Kappel says it’s an extremely unique event…

Cut 7 (12) “…fair trial.”

Kappel says at his trial, then-21-year-old Neal, who is Black, was represented by a Jefferson Parish attorney who was completely unprepared. She says there was not a proper investigation nor forensic analysis used in the case.

Cut 8 (11) “…as the shooter.”

Kappel says they believe Neal stayed in the car the entire time and had nothing whatsoever to do with the murders and his attorney failed to use physical evidence that connected his co-defendants to the scene of the crime.

Cut 9 (12)  “…for that.”

Neal is among the death row inmates that have applied for clemency. Kappel says if the state does not seek a rehearing of the case, Neal will return to Jefferson Parish and face a new trial. In the meantime, he remains in custody.

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Louisiana has not seen much rain over the past few weeks causing much of the state to be classified as in an extreme drought. But LSU AgCenter Entomologist Doctor Aaron Ashbrook says the lack of rainfall has resulted in fewer mosquitos and fire ants…

Cut 10 (06) “…less of them.”

Ashbrook says you might have also noticed fewer cockroaches.

Cut 11 (09) “…hiding places.”

He also says that ants might be in other hiding spots, but if you see them, there is an easy solution.

Cut 12 (08) “…with insecticide.”

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Mortgage rates have climbed to 7.23 percent, the highest since 2001, which has cooled the housing market. But  Louisiana Realtors CEO Norman Morris says a bigger obstacle to buying a new home is affordable homeowners insurance…

Cut 13 (12) “…moving forward.”

The average cost of homeowner’s insurance in New Orleans is $5,496. In Shreveport, the average cost is $2,849 and $2,968 in Lafayette.

Morris hopes a new governor and state legislature, along with Insurance Commissioner-elect Tim Temple can up with policies and legislation that brings more insurance companies to the state.

Cut 14 (08) “…property insurance.” 

Morris says inn July 2022, closed sales were down by 27 percent and pending sales by 11 percent compared to July 2023. He says less destruction by hurricanes and tighter regulations may help stabilize the market and bring in new insurers.

Cut 15  (12) “….and regulations.”

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Crews continue to respond to wildfires on the western side of the state. The largest is the Tiger Island Fire in Beauregard Parish, which has burned about 33-thousand acres according to the state department of ag and forestry. Beauregard Sheriff Mark Herford says 20 structures have been destroyed, most of them homes. Herford says they have fire fighting assistance from other states, but the winds keep shifting…

Cut 16 (16) “…week now.”

The mandatory evacuation for the town of Merryville has been lifted.

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Louisiana Tech kicked off the 2023 season with a 22-17 come-from-behind win over Conference USA rival FIU on Saturday night inside Joe Aillet Stadium. Tech trailed by as much as 14 points on two different occasions in the first half, but the Bulldogs ended up scoring 19 unanswered to go 1-and-0 on the season. Coach Sonny Cumbie says it was a great gut check victory…

Cut 17 (20) “…football team” 

Tech has now nine straight home opener and seven straight Conference USA openers.

The Bulldogs defense held FIU to four yards passing, Myles Heard had a team-high nine tackles and Cecil Singleton Jr had a game sealing interception.

In his first career start at La Tech, Quarterback Hank Bachmeier threw for 333 yards and a touchdown. He completed four passes on the go-ahead scoring drive including a 12-yard pass to Cyrus Allen on 4th-and-5. Cumbie says it was a good start for Bachmeier in a Bulldog uniform…

Cut 18 (24) “…look for.”

Tech is at SMU this Saturday.

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Game week has arrived for the 5th ranked LSU Tigers as they get ready for their Top 10 matchup against Florida State on Sunday night in Orlando. LSU’s Jayden Daniels is a Heisman Trophy candidate and Florida State has a Heisman hopeful too in quarterback Jordan Travis. Tiger Rag editor Todd Horne says Travis will look to get the ball to six-foot-seven receiver Johnny Wilson…

Cut 19 (19) “…receiving.”

There are questions about LSU’s defense, especially in the secondary. But Horne says LSU’s offense is primed for a big season, with fifth-year senior Jayden Daniels at quarterback, playing behind an experienced offensive line

Cut 20 (12) “…right now.”

LSU awarded starting left tackle Will Campbell with the number seven jersey. Traditionally number seven has gone to the best playmaker. Coach Brian Kelly says the number seven jersey also represents the best player from Louisiana. Campbell was starred at Neville High School in Monroe.

Thirty-nine-year-old Joey Clement (Clay-mon) of Thibodaux has been found guilty of killing three teenagers in a 2021 drunk driving head-on crash in Lafourche Parish. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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Vernon Parish authorities arrest a 59-year-old man who allegedly started a wildfire that destroyed two mobile homes and an undetermined amount timber land. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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A jury needed only six hours to return a unanimous guilty verdict against 39-year-old Joey Clement of Thibodaux for killing three teenagers in a fatal crash in 2021. Lafourche Parish Assistant District Attorney Shaun George says Clement was speeding and driving under the influence…

Cut 3 (09) “…whole night”

18-year-olds Hali Coss and Michaela Bowling and 19-year-old Lily Dufrene were killed when Clement crashed his Ford F-150 into their SUV head-on after crossing the center line on Highway 20 north of Thibodaux.

The prosecution argued that Clement’s level of intoxication and high rate of speed were contributing factors that led to the fatal crash. George says when Clement was arrested for his fourth DWI offense after the crash.

Cut 4 (12) “…the wheel”

Clement was driving between 88 and 93 miles per hour in a 55 miles per hour zone.

The three victims’ vehicle was traveling under the speed limit and the driver, Lily Dufrene had no alcohol in her system. George says the girls were out celebrating Dufrene’s 19th birthday…

Cut 5 (14) “ ..sadly.” 

Clement’s sentencing date is scheduled for October 11. He faces up to 95 years in prison.

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An arrest has been made in connection to one of the wildfires that erupted near Rosepine in Vernon Parish yesterday. Sheriff Sam Craft says 59-year-old Paul Nash faces two felony arson charges for violating the state’s burn ban. Craft says Nash lit a brush pile in his backyard on fire and it quickly spread…

Cut 6 (08) “…massively.”

Those fires and others in Vernon Parish have been contained but Craft says that could change in an instant with the extended drought and scorching temperatures.

Cut 7 (07) “…that critical.” 

There have been reports of individuals claiming they didn’t know the statewide burn ban was in effect. Craft says that’s no excuse.

Cut 8 (08) “…outside.”

The wildfire started by Nash allegedly destroyed two mobile homes and an undetermined amount of timber. It also resulted in evacuations.

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The town of Merryville and the Junction areas are under a mandatory evacuation as a result of the ongoing Tiger Island wildfire. Beauregard Parish Sheriff spokesperson Shannon Burgess says that the fire was mostly contained, but that has hanged.

Cut 9 (08) “…fifty percent.”

The fire came extremely close to the small town of Merryville, but a wind change pushed it away

Cut 10 (10) “…in jeopardy.”

It was previously reported that the only structures that were burned were a few deer stands and camps, but Burgess says that has now changed.

Cut 11 (10) “…loss of life.”

Centerpoint Entergy has disconnected services to all Merryville customers.

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The United Way of Southwest Louisiana has launched a fund to help out everyone affected by the fires in Southwest Louisiana. CEO Denise Durel on where the money would immediately go.

Cut 12 (08) “…at initially.”

Southwest Louisiana was impacted by major hurricanes Laura and Delta in 2020, and Durel says that even though the current wildfires deal with disaster relief, they could never have expected these wildfires.

Cut 13 (10) “…in this space.”

If you want to make a donation to help out with the fire relief, go to UnitedwaySWLA.org or text FIRE SWLA to 40403.

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Governor John Bel Edwards was in southwest Louisiana this afternoon to get a first hand look at the response to numerous wild fires in Beauregard and Vernon Parishes. Edwards says the state is dealing with an unprecedent event…

Cut  14 (16)  “.. .dangerous situation”

The governor has activated about 100 Louisiana National Guard soldiers to help in the fight against the wildfires. Several Black Hawk helicopters are dumping thousands of gallons of water on the fires. National guard engineering crews on the ground are using dozers to create fire lanes to help prevent the spread of wildfires.

Edwards says the situation is constantly changing, just when you think a fire is contained, it can quickly spread again when the wind kicks up…

Cut 15 (12) “…uncontained”

According to the U-S Drought monitor, about 50-percent of the state is considered to be in extreme and exceptional drought. Edwards says the next chance for significant rain is Tuesday night…

Cut  16 (11)   “…to have”

The statewide burn ban was updated on Friday afternoon taking out the exceptions for prescribed burns, so no agricultural burns are allowed as well.

Insurance Commissioner-elect Tim Temple says he’s not wasting any time since he became the lone candidate and he’s already getting a head start on the job. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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People who are responsible for starting fires will be held liable according to State Ag and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The US Drought Monitor reports that nearly half of the state is in extreme or exceptional drought. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 3 (32) …I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Tim Temple will be the state’s next Insurance Commissioners after his only opponent withdrew from the race. And even though he’s not having to hit the campaign trail, Commissioner-elect Temple says he’s simply getting a head start on the job.

Cut 4 (08) “…implement those.”

Back in October when the DeRidder native decided to run for commissioner again, he says he was also meeting with stakeholders to find solutions to the state’s insurance crisis. And while Temple says he doesn’t want to rush to failure with a half-baked plan…

Cut 5 (08) “…change nothing (x2).”

Temple says the insurance commissioner sets the tone as a regulator and he wants to make it attractive for providers to write policies in Louisiana and also be a consumer-friendly resource when individuals have problems with their insurance.

Cut 6 (12) “…state of Louisiana (x2).”

Temple also vows to work with the next governor and lawmakers to implement methods to attract new insurers and retain current providers.

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Wildfires continue to burn across the Louisiana and State Ag and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain promises to hold people who start those fires responsible. Strain says these wildfires are destroying acres of land and property…

Cut 7 (11) “…full restitution.”

Strain urges the public to not throw cigarettes out of a car window, use barbecue grills to cook outside, or burn debris. He says multiple brush fires were found outside the home in southeast Louisiana

Cut 8 (11) “…of life.”

Strain says violators with civil citations will pay up to $250 in fines. If it is criminal, the violator could face a $500 fine and up to six months in jail. That doesn’t include restitution for loss of property.

Cut 9 (12)  “…and life.”

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Pearl Harbor Sailor and New Orleans native Clarence Thompson will be buried in Slidell this morning, more than 80 years after the December 7^th attack on the USS Oklahoma. His cousin Denise Bennett says they are extremely grateful for the lengths the military went to in identifying his remains.

Cut 10 (08) “…his family.”

Thompson served as a cook on the ship, earned a Purple Heart and his return home is part of the Navy’s Project Oklahoma which has identified the remains of 355 sailors since 2015 through DNA. Bennett says it’s an honor to welcome such a distinguished family member to his final resting place.

Cut 11 (06) “…and coming.”

As part of the Navy’s Project Oklahoma, the burial is paid for by the Navy and Thompson’s family chose to have him buried at the Southeast Louisiana Veteran’s Cemetery. Bennett says it’s just another example of how the military leaves no man behind.

Cut 12 (07) “…to family.”

The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. and is open to the public.

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Scorching temperatures and dry conditions have placed 90 percent of Louisiana in some type of drought, according to the U.S. Drought Monitor. State climatologist Barry Keim says little to no rain has caused various problems in Louisiana.

Cut 13 (12) “…July first.”

In Louisiana,43 percent of the state is currently in extreme drought. In extreme drought, trees are stressed, saltwater intrudes into rivers and water pressure is low. Keim says southwestern Louisiana is the driest part of the state.

Cut 14 (10) “…drought class.” 

The state is 20 inches below our normal amount of rainfall for 2023. The southern parts of the state were abnormally dry but were not in a drought this same week last year. Keim added it would take a lot of rain to make up for the dryness

Cut 15  (12) “….the news.”

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Louisiana Tech is only one day away from its first game of the year against FIU. Second-year Bulldogs coach Sonny Cumbie says his players are excited for their first game but have to pay attention to the details.

Cut 16 (15) “…bye-week really.”

Graduate transfer quarterback Hank Buchmeier will play his first game with the Bulldogs on Saturday, and Cumbie says how he has been able to keep Buchmeier on the same page.

Cut 17 (18) “…comfort with it.”

Last year, La Tech allowed 468 yards per game, which was second to last in Conference USA. Cumbie says he still has questions about his front four along with other players on his defense.

Cut 18 (14) “…look for.”

The two teams played each other last year in Miami and beat FIU 42-34 in double overtime.

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Dennis Allen is entering his second year as the Saints head coach since taking over for Super Bowl-winning coach Sean Payton. Allen was the defensive coordinator for seven years before accepting his current role, and linebacker Demario Davis says that this is the most comfortable Allen has been since he joined the team almost a decade ago.

Cut 19 (17) “…that are undisclosed.”

Davis has been a centerpiece of the defense ever since he went to New Orleans, but he says that the success starts with Allen.

Cut 20 (13) “…game situation.”

In a new poll by Faucheux Strategies, crime, education and rising insurance rates are the three biggest concerns among Louisiana voters. Teiko Foxx explains…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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Officials say the wildfire in Beauregard Parish is 85 percent contained but evacuation orders remain in effect. Jeff Palermo has more on the Tiger Island Wildfire..

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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With a number of wildfires burning in Louisiana, air quality has become a concern. Department of Environmental Quality spokesperson Greg Langley says when smoke travels through the air, it releases particulate matter which can irritate your lungs….

Cut 3 (12) “…breathing problems”

Langley says the public can keep track of air quality by going to D-E-Q’s website and looking at the air quality index which is color coded. He says for today, the entire state is in yellow for moderate smoky conditions…

Cut 4 (07) “…avoid exposure”

Right now, southwest Louisiana is impacted the most by the smoke in the air. Langley says these conditions could last awhile…

Cut 5 (09) “          …some time” 

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A new poll finds crime is the biggest concern among Louisiana voters. Faucheux Strategies surveyed 800 Louisiana residents and 18 percent listed crime as their top concern. Public Affairs Research Council President Steven Procopio says the gubernatorial candidates are promoting tough-on-crime rhetoric but voters want specific ideas.

Cut 6 (08) “… their solutions.” 

The second biggest concern for Louisiana voters is education followed by rising insurance rates. Procopio says the candidates for governor have yet to provide any specific answers on how they would address these issues…

Cut 7 (08) “…the candidates.” 

The economy and roads rounding out the top five for biggest concerns among Louisiana voters. 51-percent of the respondents said they wanted state leaders to get tough on crime. Procopio says voters should step up and demand that the candidates provide solutions to the state’s problems…

Cut 8 (10) “…as well.”

The gubernatorial primary election is October 14. Early voting begins September 30th.

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Authorities say the wildfire in Beauregard Parish is 85 percent contained, but evacuation orders remain in effect. Beauregard Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Shannon Burgess says last night the blaze crossed over Highway 27.

Cut 9 (11) “…loss of life.”

The wildfire in Beauregard Parish is known as the Tiger Island Fire due to the proximity of its origin near Tiger Island Hunting Club.

Since Wednesday, Burgess says the wildfire went from 65 percent contained to 85 percent. He says a sudden wind change caused the fire to jump from the west side of Highway 27 to the east.

Cut 10 (11) “…could happen.”

Burgess says Highways 27 and 110 have reopened after a small fire on the east side of the parish, that destroyed eight acres, was contained.

The only structures that have been destroyed in the blaze are camps and deer stands. And while the increase in containment is welcome news, Burgess says the slightest spark could change things in an instant and he’s imploring residents to abide by the statewide burn ban.

Cut 11 (07) “…message out.”

National Guard helicopters will conduct water dumps in the area today. So far more than 13,000 acres have burned in Beauregard Parish.

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LSU will not have one of its top players for the season opener against Florida State. The NCAA has suspended defensive tackle Maason Smith for receiving an improper benefit. Wilson Alexander from the Advocate broke the story and says the infraction occurred before college athletes could take advantage of NIL…

Cut 12 (10) “…g0tten hurt”

Wilson says the NCAA also said Smith had to serve the one-game suspension for the season opener, which is a top ten matchup between the Tigers and Seminoles. Alexander says Smith’s absence will be a factor as he was expected to provide pressure up the middle against FSU QB Jordan Travis…

Cut 13 (11) “…Bradyn Swinson”

The story broke to the public on Wednesday night, but Alexander says LSU has known about this suspension….

Cut  14 (06)  “.. .for that.”

LSU and Florida State meet in Orlando on September 3rd.

In the governor’s race, Republican Jeff Landry holds the lead position with 36 percent support and Democrat Shawn Wilson is at 26 percent according to a new poll conducted by Faucheux Strategies. Teiko Foxx reports Landry and Wilson are likely headed towards a run-off…

Cut 1 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Officials are urging the public to observe the statewide burn ban as wildfires have caused significant damage. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Wildfires have taken over much of Beauregard Parish due to the extreme heat and drought. Pierson Luscy has more.

Cut 3 (32) …I’m Pierson Luscy.”

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 It’s another day where the high temperature is expected to get a few degrees above 100-degrees. Office of Public Health Deputy Assistant Secretary Devin George says 25 people have died as a result of heat-related illnesses since June up from the 16 reported deaths on August 4th

Cut 4 (06) “…the heat.”

Since April 1, there have been 4,766 heat-related emergency visits in Louisiana. George says outdoor workers, pregnant women, older adults, and people with pre-existing conditions are at higher risk. He says to encourage Louisiana residents to know the signs…

Cut 5 (12) “…of time.”

Georges suggests residents to limit outdoor activity, drink plenty of fluids, stay in the shade, wear light-colored clothing, and stay in air-conditioned spaces to avoid heat-related illnesses. He says a new tool will be launched to track the danger of extreme heat poses on public health.

Cut 6 (11) “…we’re at.”

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The outbreak of wildfires in Louisiana has prompted the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness to activate the State Emergency Operations Center.  Assistant State Fire Marshal Felicia Cooper is urging the public to observe the burn ban and to help spread the word.

Cut 7 (07) “…at all.”

Officials are urging the public not to cook outside or even light a fire pit due to the extreme heat and drought.

GOSHEP Director Casey Tingle says wildfires present a real threat to the public, to our families, to our homes and property.

Cut 8 (10) “…conditions.”

Increased winds and the drought have prompted the National Weather Service to place large parts of the state under a red flag warning. Tingle encourages the public to be extremely vigilant and to help them bring about awareness of the burn ban.

Cut 9 (09)  “…for all of us.”

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is also encouraging merchants to display signs that the Burn Ban is in place to help increase awareness.

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Beauregard Parish is experiencing some of the worst wildfires in Louisiana’s history, and it is taxing local firefighters. Beauregard Fire District Chief 1 Jay Williams….

Cut 10 (07) “…spread thin.”

Sheriff Mark Herford says the early estimate is that this wildfire has charred ten-thousand acres…

Cut 11 (17) “…the next.”

Beauregard is getting help from nearby parishes, Todd Parker is the Captain at the Ward Six Fire Protection Distirct at Calcasieu…

Cut 12 (10) “…ahead of time.”

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A new poll conducted last week by Faucheux Strategies and paid for by multiple media outlets shows Republican Jeff Landry remains a frontrunner with 36 percent of support in the governor’s race. Democrat Shawn Wilson is at 26 percent. Pollster Dr. Ron Faucheux says 14 percent of people polled were unsure of who to vote for but Landry has name recognition.

Cut 13 (12) “…winds down.”

While no other candidate approached double-digit support when likely voters were asked who they would vote for if the election were held right now, Independent Hunter Lundy registered third at 7 percent. Faucheux says there’s an opportunity for Hunter Lundy to improve his vote.

Cut 14 (10) “…run off.” 

Republicans Steven Waguespack received 6 percent of votes, John Schroder at 4 percent, Sharon Hewitt at 3 percent, and Richard Nelson at 2 percent. Faucheux says there is still time to alter the election’s dynamics but the window of opportunity is closing quickly 

Cut 15  (12) “….and see”

The poll sampled 800 likely voters. Sixty-four percent of respondents are white, 30 percent Black, and six percent other.

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One more preseason game for the Saints and then they have to trim down their roster. The NFL’s cutdown day is on Tuesday. Coach Dennis Allen on how players on the bubble can find their way as one of the final 53 players.

Cut 16 (13) “…into account.”

Cornerback Alontae Taylor has been fighting for a starting spot with Paulson Adebo all offseason. Taylor says that one of the ways he can improve is by getting reps against young wide receiver Chris Olave.

Cut 17 (15) “…same thing.”

Saints defensive lineman Malcolm Roach is on a one-year deal. The Baton Rouge native is entering his fourth season and believes he’s a versatile piece for the Saints defense.

Cut 18 (22) “…a little while.”

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Zy Alexander is projected to be a starter at cornerback by the Tiger Rag Audibles Podcast. The transfer from Southeastern Louisiana was an All-Southland performer last season and is trying to make the jump to F-B-S football. Alexander says going up against LSU’s receivers in practice is getting him ready…

Cut 19 (13) “…our receivers.”

Kicker Damion Ramos is entering his second year with the Tigers. He went 10 for 14 on field goals and 55 for 57 on extra points last season. Ramos made all of his kicks in last Saturday’s scrimmage, including a 47-yarder….

Cut 20 (18) “…mid-season prime,”

A large fire in southwest Louisiana has resulted in evacuation orders. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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With less than two months before the primary election, a new poll reveals Republican Jeff Landry holds a solid lead in the governor’s race, receiving 36 percent of the vote. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”  

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A large wildfire in Beauregard Parish in southwest Louisiana has led to evacuations. The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness spokesperson Mike Steele says the town of Merryville is under a voluntary evacuation and residents on Neale Oil Field Road have been told they must leave as this wildfire has impacted hundreds of  acres…

Cut 3 (05) “…they’ve seen”

Authorities have closed Highway 110 in the Merryville area. Authorities have closed Highway 110 in the Merryville area. Steele says firefighters are having a hard time controlling this blaze

Cut 4 (12) “…so important”

Several rural areas have been impacted by wildfires this month and Steele says the fear is that it will only get worse as the hot and dry weather is showing no signs of relenting…

Cut 5 (11) “…a problem”

Steele says there have been 357 wildfires reported this month, in June only 65 fires. GOHSEP has activated its State Emergency Operations Center to help coordinate response to hundreds of fires.

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We’re all depending on our air conditioners to keep us cool and safe these days. Home improvement expert Paul LaGrange of LaGrange Consulting says because your A/C is working overtime, change your return air filter monthly, even if the instructions say every 90 days.

Cut 6 (06) “…worth it.” 

A dirty air filter puts an extra strain on your A/C that’s already working overtime. And don’t rely on an eye test for your filter, put a reminder in your phone and change it monthly.

If you’ve been told you have a small return air space, LaGrange says to buy a less restrictive air filter. He says if it whistles you want a thinner air filter.

Another way to keep your home cool is by keeping the windows, blinds, and curtains closed. LaGrange says if you must cook use the microwave, and try to use your stove and oven as little as possible.

Cut 7 (05) “…your house.” 

Keep your doors closed as much as possible to keep the cool air in and warm air out. LaGrange says photos of putting tents over your outside condenser circulating on social media can be misleading. While the shade is good, you don’t want to trap air above the unit…

Cut 8 (10) “…conditioning system.”

He says a tent over the condenser and even hosing it off, unfortunately, forces the unit to work harder.

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A new poll shows Republican Jeff Landry with a big lead in the governor’s race. In the survey of 800 likely voters, Landry has 36 percent of the vote. Democrat Shawn Wilson has 26 percent while everyone else is in single digits. LA Politics.com Jeremy Alford says there are 38 days before early voting begins…

Cut 9 (12) “…votes go.”

The poll indicates Landry and Wilson remain positioned to finish in the top two spots in the October 14 primary and would advance to the run-off election on November 18. Alford says the poll shows Wilson collected 60 percent of the Democratic vote.

Cut 10 (11) “…to see.”

Seven-percent of the respondents support Independent Hunter Lundy, while Republicans Stephen Waguespack John Schroder has four percent, Sharon Hewitt and Richard Nelson have six percent or less. Alford says Lundy it’s notable that Lundy finished third in this poll…

Cut 11 (12) “…race now.”

Several media outlets paid for the poll and it was conducted by Faucheaux Strategies last week.

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High profile attorney Ben Crump is demanding the U-S Justice Department pursue federal civil rights charges against the officers involved in the 2019 police custody death of Ronald Greene. Crump believes this is a slam dunk case because police body camera video shows excessive force was used as officers attempted to arrest Greene following a lengthy police chase…

Cut 12 (08) “…Ronald Greene”

Body-camera footage shows officers kicking and punching Greene following a high speed chase that ended in Union Parish along a rural highway Former State Trooper Kory York and four other officers were indicted on state charges, but so far federal prosecutors have not acted on the case.

Greene’s mother, Mona Hardin, can’t believe it’s been over four years and no federal indictment…

Cut 13 (10) “…need it now.”  (2x)

Crump along with members of Greene’s family spoke in front of the Union Parish Courthouse on Tuesday. Crump says it’s critical that the Justice Department launches a federal civil rights investigation…

Cut  14 (10)  “…excessive force.”

Meanwhile, Attorney Mike Small, who represents York, is looking to get his state charges thrown out because prosecutors used statements made during an internal State Police investigation in his criminal case.

A documentary that tells the story of how more than 18,000 evacuees called the Cajundome their temporary home following Hurricane Katrina will air on LPB at 7 tonight. Teiko Foxx has the story…

Cut 1 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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A new online tool allows parents to get a better idea of potential child support obligations. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The heat has been relentless and new all-time record high temperatures are predicted today and tomorrow. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Louisiana Public Broadcasting will air the first public broadcast of Cajundome City, a new documentary that explores sheltering efforts for 18,500 evacuees in the Cajundome following Hurricane Katrina, tonight at 7 PM. Co-Director Christopher Allain (Ah-lan) says the documentary shows the massive efforts of the Acadiana community in a time of need.

Cut 4 (10) “…be done.”

The documentary includes interviews with volunteers, hurricane survivors, and Cajundome management. Allain says the film shows how management at the Cajundome stepped up to provide all of the essentials the evacuees needed…

Cut 5 (11) “…medical clinic.”

The film comes after a book in 2017 – “The Day of the Cajundome Mega-shelter.” The documentary includes interviews with hurricane survivors, volunteers, and those involved in the sheltering operation.

Allain says it’s a story that will resonate with the community and show the unity of Acadiana.

Cut 6 (12) “…of you.”

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The Department of Children and Family Services unveils its online Child Support Estimator. DCFS Child Support Director Konitra (Co-knee-tra) Jack says families can simply enter their income and a few other steps and get an estimated payment. Normally she says attorneys and a judge are involved to set the order…

Cut 7 (10) “…right there.”

Jack says the online tool is comparable to a mortgage calculator, the estimator gives parents a ballpark idea of monthly child support payments.  And for parents who already have a determined amount, Jack says if there are changes the estimator is useful because it can give you an idea of what the new amount would be.

Cut 8 (10) “…the amount.”

The estimator was launched about two weeks ago and the DCFS says it’s been thoroughly tested and gives parents a better understanding of what factors are involved in determining payment amounts. Besides the estimator, Jack says their website offers even more insight for parents.

Cut 9 (09)  “…our website.”

For more information go the Department of Children and Family Services website.

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The Bayou State continues to bake and several cities in Louisiana are on tap for record-breaking high temps today and tomorrow. State Climatologist Barry Keim says the highest ever recorded temperature for Shreveport was 110 degrees, in Baton Rouge, it was 105, and in New Orleans 102 degrees. But today…

Cut 10 (10) “…in New Orleans (x2).”

Keim says the previously recorded highs for Baton Rouge were 110 and 108, on back-to-back days in August of 1909. But historical records do not show similar temps in surrounding cities. Keim and other forecasters believe those recordings could be inaccurate. The consensus is that 105 is most likely the record high for the Red Stick.

As for the present, Keim says record highs will either be matched or broken today and tomorrow.

Cut 11 (10) “…oppressive (x2).”

So, brace yourself, as Keim says the summer from hell looks like it’s not going away anytime soon…

Cut 12 (07) “…even beyond.”

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The first Republican presidential primary debate is tonight in Milwaukee, but the former President will not be there. Donald Trump, who has a large lead in the polls over the other GOP candidates, is skipping the event. LSU Shreveport Political Science Professor Jeffrey Sadow says front-runners do not see the advantage of debating their opponents…

Cut 13 (10) “…these situations”

There will be eight Republicans on the stage, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Sadow says there are many GOP voters who do not find DeSantis to be a dynamic candidate…

Cut 14 (12) “…very well” 

Sadow says he expects former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie will try to stand out because he’s been the most outspoken in criticism of Trump….

Cut 15 (07) “…with Trump.”

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Louisiana Tech is gearing up for the week zero matchup against Florida International on Saturday night at 8 PM in Ruston. Quarterback Hank Bachmeier is set to make his first start with the Bulldogs and talked with the media on Tuesday about how his relationship with head coach Sonny Cumbie.

Cut 16 (16) “…I can be.”

Bachmeier started 29 games during four seasons at Boise State and knows what he needs to do on Saturday.

Cut 17 (19) “…my mentality.”

Last season, FIU beat Tech in double overtime 42-34.

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LSU started two freshmen at left and right tackle last season and could start another freshman at one of the tackle positions again this season. Five-star prospect Lance Heard took snaps with the first team at right tackle during last Saturday’s scrimmage. Coach Brian Kelly says Heard dominated at Neville High School last season, but now he’s getting tested every day at practice…

Cut 18 (18) “…in season.”

Last year Will Campbell as a freshman started at left tackle and rookie Emery Jones started at right tackle. If Heard gets in the starting line-up, Jones would line up at right guard.

Freshman running back Kaleb Jackson also stood out during Saturday’s scrimmage, scoring two touchdowns, including a 70-plus yard TD reception on a screen pass, but Kelly says to keep expectations in check.

Cut 19 (20) “…bit of both.”

The No. 7 and No. 18 jerseys are two of the most coveted jerseys among LSU players. With the season approaching, Kelly says when to expect the word on who will represent those jerseys….

Cut 20 (13) “…of announcement”

The number seven jersey goes to the team’s top playmaker, while #18 goes to a leader on and off the field.