Senator Bill Cassidy is working on bipartisan legislation to give relief to property owners who are being priced out of their homes with flood insurance hikes. Brooke Thorington explains.

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

______________________________________

A team of researchers and students led by Lafayette researchers has uprooted thousands of artifacts from Kisatchie National Forest in Vernon Parish. Teiko Foxx reports the findings…

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”  

______________________________________

Louisiana Republican Senator Bill Cassidy is working with New Jersey Democrat Senator Bob Menendez in reforming the flood insurance program and cap premium increases. Cassidy expects there will be a hearing soon in DC on their legislation.

Cut 3 (12) “….red tape.” 

Cassidy says FEMA has yet to explain the 18 percent increase and their calculations for Risk Rating 2.0.

Before premium increases were capped at nine percent annually, Cassidy says under Risk Rating 2.0 the increase can be as high as 18 percent. His proposal caps the annual maximum increase to nine percent.

Cut 4 (06)  “…even that.” 

Cassidy says he wants to help homeowners along the coast who are being priced out of remaining in their homes. He says the same problems Louisianans are facing with flood insurance are also happening in New Jersey and New York. Reduced rates, he says would be based on need and no one would necessarily receive free coverage.

Cut 5 (09)  “…her insurance.”

Cassidy says the bipartisan Infrastructure Act is putting funds towards making areas vulnerable to natural disasters more resilient and once completed it should lower flood insurance rates.

__________________________________________________

During a six-week excavation in the Kisatchie National Forest in Vernon Parish, researchers with UL Lafayette have discovered rare artifacts dating back to the last Ice Age. UL Lafayette Professor of Anthropology Dr. Mark Rees says they unearthed a collection of projectile points and stone instruments…

Cut 6 (13)  “…the sharpening..” 

Rees excavating team uncovered artifacts such as ceramics, stone tools, and evidence that suggests that a bow and arrow was used by nomadic groups of people that occupied this land 13,000 years ago.

Cut 7 (12)  “…South Louisiana…” 

Researchers uncovered the first evidence of a permanent structure in the national forest. Rees says the post-molds will help interpret time and societal associations…

Cut 8 (12)  “…of dating…” 

Students from UL-Lafayette, LSU, and Tulane University also participated in the excavation.

_______________________________________________

Tonight’s Powerball Jackpot of $750 million is among the largest jackpots in the game’s history. Dustin Annison with the Louisiana Lottery says most winners choose to take cash value which would be almost $379 million for this jackpot versus an annuity of $750 million.

Cut 9 (10)  “…full jackpot.”

The last time someone held a winning Powerball ticket was April 19^th

Tickets must be purchased by nine o’clock tonight to be eligible for the drawing and Annison says to always sign the back of your ticket and be sure to check your ticket before throwing it away. He says even if you don’t hit all the jackpot numbers you might still be a winner.

Cut 10 (05)  “…prizes you can win.”

The easiest way to check your ticket is by using the Louisiana Lottery app on your smartphone to scan you ticket.

__________________________________________________

In a new million dollar ad buy, Attorney General and the Republican frontrunner in the governor’s race, Jeff Landry, tells voters he understands the struggles of working class families. Landry says he dug ditches in a sugarcane field, served our country and worked nights as an officer, while raising a family…

Cut 11 (11)  “…delivers solutions.”

Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat believes the 30-second TV ad will resonate with voters because it touches on the lack of progress in Louisiana…

Cut 12 (09) “…fixed” 

Landry, Republican Treasurer John Schroder, and former Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack are the only candidates in the race who have released statewide TV ads.

Landry’s most recent campaign finance report showed he had six-million dollars on hand. The primary election is three months away and Pinsonat says Landry has way more resources than his opponents…

Cut 13 (11) “…you are the front-runner”

The lone declared candidate for Insurance Commissioner is about to start his campaign media blitz. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

_______________________________________________

After pleading not guilty to a felony charge of battery, Saints running back Alvin Kamara pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor charge of breach of peace for his involvement in a 2022 fight in Las Vegas. Kace Kieschnick has more…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

_______________________________________________

Small business optimism has improved since last month but it’s still well below average with inflation disparities and quality workers as a big problem. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 3 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.”

________________________________________________

DeRidder insurance professional Tim Temple has begun his campaign for Louisiana Insurance Commissioner in earnest. Temple’s campaign announced it will start buying statewide media ads to promote his run. In a Tuesday call to LRN, Temple says he has been traveling the state since he announced last fall, but the time has come to invest in a broader message…:

Cut 4 (10)  “…in this campaign.”

Louisiana has the highest auto insurance rates in the nation, and property insurance costs are threatening some residents with the loss of their homes. Temple says we have too few insurance companies doing business here, and hence there is no competition to drive costs down. He says, if elected, he’d work to change that…:

Cut 5 (11)   “…business in Louisiana.”

Current Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon will not seek re-election, and –as of now – Temple is the only declared candidate in the race. With a month to go before qualifying, Temple says he will campaign as hard as if he did have a challenger…:

Cut 6 (11)  “…every single day.”

________________________________________________

A more than four hours standoff with Shreveport Police Monday morning ends with what authorities believe is the suspect’s charred remains found inside a Crook Creek home. Names of those involved have not been released and Police Chief Wayne Smith says it ended when the suspect set the home on fire.

Cut 7 (09) “…this time.”

Smith says the suspect was heavily armed when he went to the home intent on causing harm to any and everyone he encountered. The gunman shot two neighbors before entering the home, and he also fired shots toward a room where a 13-year-old girl hid as others escaped. Smith says the teen was hit and three officers entered the home amid gunfire to save her.

Cut 8 (09) “…to safety.’”

Multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the standoff and the gunman exchanged gunfire multiple times with officers and he also destroyed two police drones used in the standoff. Smith says police spent hours trying to negotiate with the suspect.

Cut 9 (03)  “…of surrendering.”

Smith says all of the shooting victims are expected to make a full recovery.

____________________________________________

Saints running back Alvin Kamara has pleaded no contest to misdemeanor charges stemming from a fight that took place in a Las Vegas hotel in 2022. As part of the plea deal, Kamara must perform community service and pay over $100,000 to the victim, Darnell Greene, for medical bills. Host of the Locked-On Saints Podcast Ross Jackson says Kamara avoids jail time…

Cut 10 (10) “…Alvin Kamara.”

Kamara also faced a civil suit in Louisiana that sought $10 million in damages, but Greene’s attorney says the suit has been settled. The NFL, who was waiting for the judicial process to play out, has yet to announce their own consequences as part of its personal-conduct policy. First-time offenders facing felony charges involving assault or battery usually receive at least a 6-game suspension, but Jackson says it’s hard to predict what the league will do…

Cut 11 (10)  “…their players.”

While Kamara said he was glad to have this put behind him and Saints training camp just around the corner, Jackson says this could still be drawn out longer. The NFL has been monitoring proceedings closely but has given no timetable on when a ruling will be passed down. Jackson says even that may not be the end…

Cut 12 (09)    “…even longer.” 

Kamara will be eligible for Saints training camp which begins July 26. The Saints are scheduled to begin preseason August 13 while the regular season kicks off September 10.

_______________________________________________

A new survey of members by the National Federation of Independent Business indicates a slight uptick in optimism among small businesses last month but inflation and labor quality are still a major concern. NFIB State Director Dawn McVea says owners are more optimistic about future conditions compared to last year’s reading of 21 percent worse…

Cut 13 (11) “…61 percent.”  

Eight percent of ‘Mom and Pops’ mentioned labor costs as their top business problem, which is down by two points from May and 24 percent said that labor quality was their top business problem. McVea says nearly half of the owners reported job openings that were hard to fill…

Cut 14 (12)  “…a problem.”

However, 36 percent of owners say they have raised compensation, and 22 percent plan to raise wages in the next three months. McVea is hopeful the economy will improve for owners by the end of the last quarter…

Cut 15 (13)  “…the year.”

A state judge has thrown out obstruction of justice charges against two former state troopers indicted in the 2019 fatal arrest of Ronald Greene. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

______________________________________

Schools and athletic events in Louisiana will be required to have AEDs (automated external defibrillators) and trained individuals to use them in case something goes terribly wrong. Brooke Thorington explains.

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

______________________________________

Two former state troopers could be cleared of wrongdoing in the Ronald Greene case.  Judge Thomas Rogers has quashed the obstruction of justice charges against John Peters and Dakota DeMoss. Legal analyst Franz Borghardt says the judge determined Peters’ actions did not meet the level of obstruction of justice by saying “Bury it in the report” when discussing the in-custody death of Greene…

Cut 3 (08) “….right” 

Judge Rogers has also ruled DeMoss should not face obstruction of justice charges for turning off his body camera audio. Borghardt says he’s surprised the judge dismissed that charge

Cut 4 (10)  “…obstruction of justice” 

District Attorney John Belton can appeal.

The judge is also giving prosecutors three days to fix deficiencies in some charges against the three other defendants. Borhardt says it appears Judge Rogers is tightening up the case…

Cut 5 (10)  “…not a judge.”

Former state trooper Kory York faces the most serious charge. York is accused of negligent homicide as he was involved in the beating Greene took after a police chase along rural highway in Union Parish in 2019. York also faces ten counts of malfeasance, but the judge is considering quashing eight of those counts, unless D-A John Belton can identify a specific criminal act.

__________________________________________________

The state health department is reporting Louisiana’s first two human cases of West Nile Virus for  2023. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says it only takes one bite so protect yourself

Cut 6 (09)  “…severe complications…” 

LDH advises eliminating standing water from around your home, keeping gutters and swimming pool properly cleaned, and also wearing EPA-approved mosquito repellent if you will be outside. Kanter says mosquito pools are present and cases have been discovered in two parishes across the state.

Cut 7 (12)  “…out there…” 

Cases of malaria, caused by certain types of mosquitos, have been reported in Florida and Texas. Although there are no locally acquired cases of malaria, Kanter says mosquito vectors are present in the state creating the potential for local transmission.

Cut 8 (12)  “…the summer…” 

Last year, Louisiana experienced 41 West Nile neuroinvasive disease cases and seven deaths.

_______________________________________________

According to Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics data, Louisiana paid its more than 13,000 patrol officers and sheriff’s deputies an average annual salary of $45 thousand in 2022 compared to the national average of $71 thousand. PAR President Steven Procopio says comparing Louisiana to neighboring states, law enforcement patrol officers are paid six-thousand below the regional average…

Cut 9 (11)  “…job well.”

Louisiana has the third lowest police pay compared to nine southern southern states. The average hourly pay for officers is around $22 in Louisiana

Procopio says it’s unclear whether the numbers include supplemental dollars that the state provides, but in most states local governments are responsible for police pay….

Cut 10 (09)  “…in money.”

While the South has the lowest wages for police in the country, it also has the highest concentration of jobs in law enforcement. In Louisiana, seven out of every 1,000 jobs are in law enforcement. Procopio says in order to keep boots on the ground, salaries must stay competitive…

Cut 11 (12)  “…make priorities.”

Officers in the New Orleans-Metairie receive the highest annual salary in the state,  making $49 thousand.

_______________________________________________

Schools and athletic events in Louisiana are now required to have an automated external defibrillator, better known as an AED. Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields authored the legislation, and he says two lives have already been saved in those settings because an AED was readily available.

Cut 12 (11) “…talk about it” 

The state health department will have oversite of the devices, so they are properly maintained. Fields says LDH will also provide instruction on how an AED should be used.

Cut 13 (06) “…CPR training.”

In addition to athletics Fields says there’s a need in the classroom for AEDs. Lawmakers dedicated $1.5 million to pay for the devices.  Schools that don’t have a device can apply one through state education.

Fields says he’d been working on the “Jump Start Your Heart” legislation prior to the collapse of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin in January during the Cincinnati Bengals game. He says the incident only highlighted the need for AEDs and CPR training.

Cut  14 (10)  “…nation.”

The new law also dictates that schools should have a response plan to incidents that involve the use of AEDs and CPR.

Time is running out for homeowners who suffered damage from hurricanes in 2020 and 2021 to complete a survey to find out if they are eligible for rebuilding grant dollars. Teiko Foxx reports an outreach session takes place today in Lake Charles at the Allen P. August Center from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm. …

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

_______________________________________________

With qualifying for the fall elections just 4 weeks away, could we see some declared candidates for Governor decide NOT to run? Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

_______________________________________________

According to research by the Public Affairs Research Council, the average teacher salary in Louisiana is just over $52,000, well below the national average. Brooke Thorington has more with PAR president Steven Procopio.

Cut 3 (32)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.”

________________________________________________

As an August 1 deadline approaches, Restore Louisiana holds an outreach event in Lake Charles today to help homeowners who suffered damage from hurricanes in 2020 and 2021 apply for federal rebuilding grant dollars. The event is at the Allen P. August Center from 3:30 to 6:30 pm. State Office of Community Development Director Pat Forbes says many hurricane victims have not completed a survey to see if they are eligible

Cut 4 (12)  “…their homes.”

Restore LA provides grant funding to homeowners who suffered damages from Hurricanes Laura and Delta and the May 2021 severe storms. The money can pay for repairs, reconstruction, and/or reimbursement for repairs already completed. Forbes says the survey is easy to complete and takes little time…

Cut 5 (12)   “…application started.”

Louisiana’s total allocation is $3.1 billion for the 2020-2021 disaster events. Homeowners may be eligible for up to $250 thousand in assistance and homes will be built to meet fortified standards.  Forbes says they have helped thousands of homeowners but the goal is to help every homeowner who could use the financial aid

Cut 6 (12)  “…Lake Charles.”

Since its launch in February 2022, the program has offered more than $208 million in grant awards to over 2,590 homeowners affected by 2020-21 disaster events. Homeowners who are unable to attend the event can complete the survey at restore.la.gov.

________________________________________________

State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter is reminding parents to be sure their children are up to date on their immunizations before school begins. Childhood vaccination rates, in Louisiana, typically exceed the national average, but Kanter says those numbers have been trending downwards the last few years, from 97 percent to 94 percent.

Cut 7 (11) “…that we are.”

Kanter says a 95% immunization rate equates to herd immunity.

He credits the state’s above-average vaccination rate to awareness, broad insurance coverage, and access to immunizations.

Kanter says immunization rates for children have also dropped nationally. The interruption of the pandemic in general is one reason and…

Cut 8 (11) “…concerning here.’”

For example, to prevent a measles outbreak, Kanter says the community needs to have at least a 95 percent vaccination rate. Some children are unable to be vaccinated due to allergies, their age, or they are immune compromised.

Cut 9 (11)  “…threshold.”

Kanter says despite Louisiana having one of the broadest vaccine exemption laws in the country, the childhood immunization rates remain above the national average.

For guidance, Kanter urges parents to speak with their child’s pediatrician about vaccinations. For more information visit Immunizations-dot-LA-gov.

____________________________________________

Qualifying for the fall elections in just one month from now, and the field of announced candidates for governor is fairly big. At last count nine people say they’ll run, but will they still feel that way in 30 days? U.L.-Monroe political science professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says he anticipates someone will drop out before then…:

Cut 10 (11) “…happens every cycle.”

The six Republicans declared are A.G. Jeff Landry, Treasurer John Schroder, former LABI head Stephen Waguespack, State Senator Sharon Hewitt, state Rep. Richard Nelson and Crowley businessman Xan (ZAN) John. Hunter Lundy is the lone independent, and there are two democrats declared; former DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson and central Louisiana educator Daniel Cole. Stockley expects no more democrats will get in, because the state Democratic Party’s plan is to unite all support behind Wilson…:

Cut 11 (07)  “…chance of an upset.”

Stockley says he would not be surprised to see some of the six GOP hopefuls back out before qualifying starts next month. He says it’s likely that state Republicans also want to focus the conservative vote down…:

Cut 12 (10)    “…to reconsider.” 

Qualifying is August 8th thru the 10th at the Secretary of State’s office in Baton Rouge.

_______________________________________________

According to research from the Public Affairs Research Council, the average teacher salary in Louisiana is $52,472, more than $12,000 below the national average. PAR President Steven Procopio says teacher salaries in Louisiana are also below the southern regional average.

Cut 13 (08) “…than ours.”  

As for how long Louisiana can get away with subpar teacher pay remains to be seen. Procopio says the million dollar question is what is it that we have to pay to get and keep quality teachers.

Cut 14 (09)  “…teacher pay.”

Procopio says there’s also an equity issue when it comes to teacher salary in Louisiana. He says typically educators in larger cities make more than those in smaller towns, and in some cases, those in rural areas make just over half the state average.

Cut 15 (05)  “…quality education.”

During the legislative session, lawmakers gave teachers in Louisiana a one-time $2,000 pay increase for the upcoming school year.

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

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

______________________________________

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

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

______________________________________

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

Cut 3 (11) “….this position” 

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

Cut 4 (09)  “…in Pittsburgh” 

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

Cut 5 (11)  “…as him.”

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

__________________________________________________

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

Cut 6 (11)  “…a neighborhood” 

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

Cut 7 (11)  “…medical assistance” 

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

Cut 8 (12)  “…those agencies” 

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

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 9 (09)  “…their taxes.”

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

Cut 10 (10)  “…taxpayers.”

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

Cut 11 (11)  “…them there.”

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

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 12 (13) “…in play” 

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

Cut 13 (12) “…cost you.”

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

Cut  14 (11)  “be tolerated….”

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

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

______________________________________

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

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

______________________________________

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

Cut 3 (10) “…of people

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

Cut 4 (09)  “…we prevailed.” 

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

Cut 5 (11)  “…appropriate result.”

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

__________________________________________________

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

Cut 6 (08)  “…fishing success” 

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

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

Cut 7 (10)  “…are in” 

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

Cut 8 (12)  “…effect” 

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 9 (11)  “…symptoms.”

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

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

Cut 10 (09)  “…off the drug.”

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

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

Cut 11 (11)  “…other protein.”

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

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 12 (12) “…day one” 

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

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

Cut 13 (13) “…with him.”

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

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 3 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx”

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 4 (08)  “…intensity.”

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

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

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

Cut 5 (12)   “…your community.”

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

Cut 6 (07)  “…evacuate.”

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

________________________________________________

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

Cut 7 (07) “…development sector.”

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

Cut 8 (12) “…in the area.’”

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

Cut 9 (10)  “…85-thousand dollars.”

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

____________________________________________

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

Cut 10 (12) “…right now.”

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

Cut 11 (13)  “way up.”

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

Cut 12 (11)    “…income growth.” 

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 13 (12) “…tourism trail.”  

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

Cut 14 (12)  “…to come.”

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

Cut 15 (13)  “…the average.”

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

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 16 (18) “..could do that.”

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

Cut 17 (19) “…this draft.”

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

Cut 18 (18) “…potentially” 

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

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

______________________________________

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

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

______________________________________

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

Cut 3 (11) “…general election.”

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

Cut 4 (10)  “…his way” 

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

Cut 5 (10)  “…the polls”

__________________________________________________

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

Cut 6 (12)  “…you hurt.” 

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

Cut 7 (13)  “…pay relentlessly.” 

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

Cut 8 (12)  “…as possible” 

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

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 9 (07)  “…for Twitter now.”

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

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

Cut 10 (11)  “…than 600.”

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

Cut 11 (09)  “…pretty simple.”

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

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

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

_______________________________________________

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

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

_______________________________________________

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

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

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

Cut 5 (11)   “…from the river.”

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

Cut 6 (12)  “…lower than normal.”

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

________________________________________________

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

Cut 7 (10) “…located.”

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

Cut 8 (09) “…we spend.’”

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

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

Cut 9 (13)  “…in return.”

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

____________________________________________

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

Cut 10 (13) “…and bicyclist.”

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

Cut 11 (12)  “loss property….”

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

Cut 12 (11)    “…as possible.” 

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

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 13 (12) “…natural infection.”  

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

Cut 14 (08)  “…infected.”

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

Cut 15 (11)  “…the average.”

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

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

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 3 (32)  “….I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 4 (13)  “…of age.”

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

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

Cut 5 (13)   “…other offense.”

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

Cut 6 (10)  “…current laws.”

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

________________________________________________

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

Cut 7 (07) “…provide help.”

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

Cut 8 (09) “…them relief.’”

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

Cut 9 (07)  “…of policy.”

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

____________________________________________

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

Cut 10 (12) “…into double digits.”

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

Cut 11 (05)  “…for a reason.”

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

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

_______________________________________________

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

Cut 13 (10) “…this decision.”  

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

Cut 14 (12)  “…in Caddo Parish.”

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

Cut 15 (10)  “…successful campaign.”

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

___________________________