Record high inflation and gas prices are prompting many businesses to consider remote work options. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Will the cost of gas keep more Americans from hitting the road this summer? David Grubb has the story…

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m David Grubb.” 

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Now that the legislature has adjourned, more are voicing their desire to run for office in Louisiana’s 2023 statewide elections. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 3 (38) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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With no relief in sight for gas prices, some workplaces could return to virtual work options that were implemented during the pandemic. University of New Orleans business professor Mark Rosa says it’s a simple decision for those businesses that already have the technology in place.

Cut 4 (07)  “…return to it.”

Another option to reduce gas usage for commuters is a four-day work week. Rosa says some workplaces could be even more flexible…

Cut 5 (10) “…many places.”

However, there are some professions that don’t allow an individual to work from home, for example, a bank teller or a construction worker. Rosa says high gas prices might also impact filling essential and front-line worker positions.

Cut 6 (08)  “…in fuel.”

Rosa says some employers could be faced with increasing wages in an effort to keep employees.

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Summer is here, the kids are out of school, and millions of people will be traveling the highways en route to their vacation destinations. Triple-A spokesman Don Redman says record fuel prices are a major concern, but so far it doesn’t look like people are deciding to stay home.

Cut 7 (11) “…start drawing back.”

After the pandemic kept the country cooped up the last couple of years, Redman says Americans want to get out. However, they may modify their plans.

Cut 8 (10)  “…staying as long.”

In order to still enjoy some time away from home, Redman says that many people will have to make some tough travel choices due to the prices at the pump.

Cut 9 (12)  “…quite significant.”

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Record high inflation is also impacting animal shelters across the country and more and more animals are being surrendered or even abandoned because their owners can no longer afford to care for them. Jeff Dorson with the Louisiana Humane Society says some pet owners feel they have no other choice.

Cut 10 (07) “…no space.”

Dorson says shelters in Louisiana are always overpopulated because the spay and neuter rate is extremely low. In the past out-of-state shelters have helped reduce the burden but with gas prices, they can’t afford to transport animals to shelters in other states.

Cut  11 (10)  “…of many.” 

If you are in a situation where you might have to give up your pet, Dorson says first spay or neuter your pet, so you won’t have an additional mouth to feed, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Cut 12 (12) “…with them.” 

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Now that the 2022 Legislative Session is over, more persons are voicing plans to run for statewide office in 2023. “LAPolitics.com” publisher Jeremy Alford says possible (or probable) candidates for Governor are Attorney General Jeff Landry, Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and state Treasurer John Schroder. Alford says another possible contender is former Louisiana Western District U.S. Attorney Donald Washington, a Black Republican…:

Cut 13 (11) “…as U.S. Attorney.”

With Schroder considering running for Governor next year, Baton Rouge state Representative Scott McKnight has announced he’ll run for State Treasurer, to replace Schroder. Alford says many candidates see Treasurer as a good entry level to statewide office, and a stepping stone to bigger, better things…:

Cut 14 (13)  “…a U.S. Senate seat.”

Today at Baton Rouge Press Club, Louisiana 3^rd Judicial District Attorney John Belton is expected to officially announce he will run for Attorney General, to replace Jeff Landry who is expected to run for Governor in 2023. Belton is currently prosecuting the high-profile case of the 2019 roadside death of Ronald Greene while in State Police custody. Alford says there are other contenders for the A.G. job…:

Cut 15 (09)  “…looking to run.”

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The New Orleans Saints have wrapped up OTAs with minicamp ready to begin on Tuesday. Rookie tackle Trevor Penning is expected to be an impact player this season after being taken with the 19th overall pick. He says right now his focus is on learning the subtle differences between the college and pro games.

Cut 16 (14)  “…good technique.”

Of course, the Saints underwent some major changes in the offseason. One mainstay though is right tackle Ryan Ramczyk. The All-Pro says after injuries slowed the offense last season, he expects to go back to putting up points this season.

Cut 17 (13) “ …this year.” 

Jameis Winston is the unquestioned starter under center this year, and he will be backed up by veteran Andy Dalton. Dalton says he’s enjoying his role and believes Winston is primed for a big year.

Cut 18 (19) “ …watch him work.” 

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The 5th U-S Circuit Court of Appeals has blocked an order from a federal judge that called for state lawmakers to redraw a Congressional district map with two majority-minority districts. House Governmental Affairs Chairman John Stefanski played a major role in drawing a Congressional map with one Black majority district and is pleased with the appellate court’s action…

Cut 9 (10) “…exercised”

Friday afternoon, Governor John Bel Edwards sent a letter to both the Senate President and Speaker of the House saying it is still too early to cancel the session and that he will not do so unless the stay is still in place as of 4 pm on this coming Tuesday, June 14.

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New Orleans Police Superintendent Shaun Ferguson says four arrest warrants have been issued in connection with the fatal shooting of an 80-year-old grandmother at a high school graduation ceremony on Xavier University’s campus on May 31st. Ferguson says the shooting was the result of two juveniles arguing and then adult members getting involved with the dispute and trying to settle it with guns…

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It’s the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Free Fishing Weekend. LDWF Biologist Danica Williams says it’s the one weekend where a fishing license is not required. And in preparation for the free weekend, Williams says they have stocked 17 ponds across the state with ample catfish to improve your odds when casting a line.

Cut 4 (04) “…go fishing.”

Even though a license is not required to fish in Louisiana this Saturday and Sunday, fishing regulations remain in effect regarding size, season, catch limits, and gear restrictions. For a list of those 17 fishing sites visit the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website.

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A Lafayette man has been arrested for the impersonation of a police officer, among other charges. 57-year-old Brad Schexnayder was driving recklessly before he suddenly came to a stop in front of an 18-wheeler and stepped out of his vehicle. He then allegedly identified himself as an officer, assaulted the driver, and fled the scene. Schexnayder was tracked to his home in Youngsville, taken into custody and booked into the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center on charges of impersonation of a police officer, simple battery, and reckless operation of a vehicle

Republican legislative leaders say next week’s special session to redraw a Congressional district map should be canceled as a result of a stay issued by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

Friday afternoon, Governor John Bel Edwards sent a letter to both the Senate President and Speaker of the House saying it is still too early to cancel the session and that he will not do so unless the stay is still in place as of 4 pm on this coming Tuesday, June 14.

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It’s the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Free Fishing Weekend. LDWF Biologist Danica Williams says it’s the one weekend where a fishing license is not required. She says the annual event is ideal for residents who have yet to enjoy one of the state’s favorite pastimes.

Cut 3 (07) “…in Louisiana.”

For a list of 17 fishing sites visit the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website.

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A Lafayette man has been arrested for the impersonation of a police officer, among other charges. Senior Corporal Matthew Benoit of the Lafayette Police says 57-year-old Brad Schexnayder was driving recklessly on Northeast Evangeline Thruway before he suddenly came to a stop in front of an 18-wheeler and stepped out of his vehicle…

Cut 6 (12) “…fled the scene.”

Schexnayder was booked into the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center on charges of impersonation of a police officer, simple battery, and reckless operation of a vehicle.

After the 5^th U.S. Circuit court of Appeals blocked a lower federal court’s order for lawmakers to redraw its submitted Congressional district map, Governor John Bel Edwards releases a statement saying it’s too early to cancel a special session for that purpose. House Governmental Affairs Chairman John Stefanski says if the governor does not rescind the call for a special session, lawmakers could convene on Wednesday and adjourn minutes later

Cut 10 (06) ” ..first day.” 

A federal judge ruled the map was not legal because it did not contain two majority-minority congressional districts, however, that ruling has been appealed.

The US Coast Guard suspended their search Friday for a Baton Rouge man who went missing while boating on the Mississippi River. He’s been identified as 54-year-old Howard Brown. Brown was last seen not wearing a life jacket on the Lower Mississippi near mile marker 232.

A Lafayette man has been arrested for the impersonation of a police officer, among other charges. Senior Corporal Matthew Benoit of the Lafayette Police says 57-year-old Brad Schexnayder was driving recklessly before he suddenly came to a stop in front of an 18-wheeler and stepped out of his vehicle…

Cut 6  (12) “…fled the scene.” 

After leaving the scene, Schexnayder headed to work where he is employed by a private security company and where he got his uniform.

It’s the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Free Fishing Weekend. LDWF Biologist Danica Williams says it’s the one weekend where a fishing license is not required. She says the annual event is ideal for residents who have yet to enjoy one of the state’s favorite pastimes.

Cut 3 (07) “…in Louisiana.”

After the 5^th U.S. Circuit court of Appeals blocked a lower federal court’s order for lawmakers to redraw its submitted Congressional district map, Governor John Bel Edwards releases a statement saying it’s too early to cancel a special session for that purpose. Acadiana state Representative John Stefanski worked on the map rejected by Baton Rouge Judge shelly Dick, who says it violates the Voting Rights act. Stefanski says the state should be able to use that map for fall elections…:

CUT 11(06)      “…down the line.”

Critics of the map say it SHOULD have two majority minority voting districts among its six because the state is one-third Black voters. Others say it’s more complicated than simple math and doing that would gerrymandering. The governor says he’ll rescind his call for the special session IF the 5^th Circuit has a stay in place by 4 pm June 14^th.

A Lafayette man has been arrested for the impersonation of a police officer, among other charges. Senior Corporal Matthew Benoit of the Lafayette Police says 57-year-old Brad Schexnayder forced a big rig off the road, ordered the driver out and then punched him. The whole thing was caught on the big rig’s dash camera. Schexnayder was arrested later at his home. Benoit says people impersonating cops is not a common occurrence..:

CUT 08(07) “…kind of occurred.”

If convicted Schexnayder could face up to $1000 in fines and up to 2 years in jail.

This weekend is the annual Free Fishing Weekend, and state Wildlife & Fisheries spokesperson Danica Williams says you won’t need a license at all…:

CUT 03(07)      “…in Louisiana.”

For information, visit “wlf.louisiana.gov”

New Orleans Police issue arrest warrants for four people wanted fort the May 31^st shooting death of an 80-year-old grandmother at a high school graduation held on the Xavier University campus. Police Chief Shaun Ferguson says two young women got into a spat after the ceremony, other family members entered the fray and someone began shooting…:

CUT 13(11)      “…using…guns.”

Among those wanted for manslaughter are a 40-year-old woman and a 19-year-old man.

GOP lawmakers urge Governor Edwards to hold off on a special session to redraw a congressional district map, after a federal appeals court blocks a lower federal courts order tossing the map passed by lawmakers last February. At issue: the existing map has only one Black majority voting district, while the state has a one-third Black population. The governor wants House & Senate members to return June 15^th to submit a new map.

Looking for something to do this weekend? State Wildlife & Fisheries say “go fish”….free!  Brooke Thorington explains…:

CUT 01(35)      “…Brooke Thorington.”

Kenner residents say a tornado hit last night; doing structural damage to property and killing power for thousands. Weather authorities cannot yet confirm it was a twister, because Jefferson Parish has had more heavy storms today. Witnesses say they did see a funnel cloud, though.

A Lafayette man is under arrest for impersonating a cop and assaulting a truck driver. LPD Corporal Matt Benoit says 57-year-old Brad Schexnayder was wearing a security guard uniform when he identified himself to the trucker as a Lafayette cop…right before he hit the man in the face. He says Schexnayder forgot there are things called dash cameras available now to most everyone…:

CUT 07  (10)        “…where he lived.”

If convicted, Schexnayder faces fines up to $1000 and up to 2 years in jail.

NOPD says arrest warrants are out for five people who participated in a reckless driving exhibition at a busy intersection of the city last weekend. The five – all males – are from New Orleans, Metairie and Baton Rouge. They’re to be charged with aggravated obstruction of a highway, criminal damage to property, simple assault, disturbing the peace and rioting. Police say more arrests are coming as they crack down on lawless behavior.

The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has blocked an order from a Baton Rouge federal judge that called for state lawmakers to redraw a Congressional district map with two majority-minority districts. House Governmental Affairs Chairman John Stefanski helped draw up the House version of that Congressional map – with one Black majority district. He is pleased with the appellate court’s action…:

CUT 09(10)      “…that was exercised.”

GOP lawmakers want Governor Edwards to hold off on a special session to redraw that map, until the courts decide the matter once and for all.

New Orleans Police Superintendent Shaun Ferguson says four arrest warrants have been issued in connection with the fatal shooting of an 80-year-old grandmother at a high school graduation ceremony on Xavier University’s campus on May 31st. He says two young women got in a dispute, family members got involved, then the guns came out…:

CUT 12(08)      “…particular incident.”

The wanted suspects are a 40-year-old woman and a 19-year-old man.

Republican legislative leaders say next week’s special session to redraw a Congressional district map should be canceled as a result of a stay issued by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Kirt Guerin, the warden of the Elayn Hunt Correctional Center in St. Gabriel, is suspended from his duties pending an investigation following his arrest for DWI involving the use of prescribed pain medication. State police arrested Guerin on Memorial Day after he had sustained minor injuries in a one-car crash while on his way to work.

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It’s the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Free Fishing Weekend. LDWF Biologist Danica Williams says it’s the perfect opportunity for avid anglers to share their love of the sport with individuals who don’t have a fishing license and hopefully they’ll choose to take up the hobby as a result.

Cut 5 (10) “…to fish.”

For a list of 17 fishing sites visit the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website.

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A Lafayette man has been arrested for the impersonation of a police officer, among other charges. Senior Corporal Matthew Benoit of the Lafayette Police says 57-year-old Brad Schexnayder was driving recklessly on Northeast Evangeline Thruway before he suddenly came to a stop in front of an 18-wheeler and stepped out of his vehicle…

Cut 6 (12) “…fled the scene.”

If convicted Schexnayder faces up to a $1000 fine and potentially two years in jail.

There’s a chance the special session Governor Edwards’ called for next week will not happen after a federal appeals court blocked a lower court”s ruling that ordered legislators to redraw a Congressional district map by June 20th. Republican legislative leaders say next week’s special session should be canceled. House Governmental Affairs Chairman John Stefanski says lawmakers could also convene on Wednesday and adjourn minutes later
Cut 10 (06) ” ..first day.”
Stefanski believes the Congressional District map with one Black Majority district should be used for the fall elections, but the governor says there should be two because of an increase in the black population.

The city of Bastrop continues to try and comprehend a triple homicide that took place early Wednesday morning. Three teenage males were killed…
cut 12 (10) “…..and outrage”
Morehouse Parish Sheriff Chief Deputy Jeremy Mardis says three people have been arrested in connection with the gunfight that resulted in the three fatalities.

If you’re looking for something to do this weekend, it’s a perfect opportunity to go fish. Brooke Thorington explains.
Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

A federal appeals court blocks an order from a U-S District Judge calling on lawmakers to redraw a Congressional district map. This means a special session for lawmakers to draw a six-district Louisiana Congressional map with two majority Black Districts will probably not happen. House Governmental Affairs Chairman John Stefanski says that based on an ongoing Alabama redistricting case, Louisiana can use the Congressional map approved by lawmakers in February for this fall’s congressional election…
Cut 11 (06) “…down the line”

The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry says there were several big legislative wins in the just-completed legislative session, including the creation of Education Savings Accounts that expand education options for children. But LABI President Stephen Waguespack regrets that one bill they deemed critical failed to pass…
cut 6 (11) “…..at the ballot”

Food banks are also feeling the pinch with record inflation and gas prices. Brooke Thorington has more.
Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

Anyone can fish this weekend in Louisiana without a fishing license. It’s the state’s annual free fishing weekend and in preparation, LDWF Biologist Danica Williams says they’ve stocked 17 waterways across the state with ample catfish to improve the odds of catching a fish…
cut 4 (04) “….go fishing”
For a list of 17 fishing sites visit the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website.