LSU lands a five-star kicking prospect in Nathan Dibert of Michigan, ranked the second best kicker in the country by 247 Sports. Dibert adds even more fuel to the Tiger’s currently 4^th ranked 2022 recruiting class.

Support and sympathy continues to pour in from across the sporting world for LSU track star Sha’Carri Richardson, who was booted from the Olympics after testing positive for a chemical found in marijuana. Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs, Damian Lillard of the Portland Trailblzers, even former LSU star and current Cleveland Brown Odell Beckham all sent out support while editorials in papers across the country lambasted the United States Anti-Doping Association for their backwards policy.

Richardson has apologized for the positive test and accepted a one month suspension, but atleast he primary sponsor Nike says they still have Richardson’s back.

Tonight the back and forth Eastern Conference Finals between Milwaukee and Atlanta continues at 7:30. The Bucks have a chance to close it out up 3 games to 2 but both teams will be without their stars as Giannis Antetokoumpo and Trae Young are both expected to be out of action after suffering injuries earlier in the series.

Should the Bucks close out the Hawks tonight Pelicans fans could be in a real bind when it comes to who they’ll be pulling for in the Finals. Chris Paul’s Suns are already in from the West after taking down the Clippers and beloved guard Jrue Holliday has played a key role in the Bucks’ ascension through the east.

LSU outfielder Dylan Crews has been named to the USA baseball 2021 Collegiate National Team roster.  Crews batted .362 this season with 18 homers, 42 RBI’s, and 12 steals. 

In basketball, the Ragin Cajuns leading scorer, Cedric Russell, has entered the NCAA Transfer portal. He’s the fifth member from last season’s team to enter the portal. Russell averaged 17 points and shot 40-percent from three-point territory.

On Friday Governor Edwards released a statement that he’s signed 477 bills from the 2021 legislative session and vetoed 28. Edwards says he vetoed the bills because they were simply unnecessary, and many would have caused real harm to the people of Louisiana. A majority of lawmakers in both chambers will decide if they want to hold a historic veto session. If so, it would start July 20^th.

Bogalusa Representative Malinda White is leaving the Democratic Party, citing frustration with partisan politics. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (29) …I’m Matt Doyle  

Baton Rouge real estate agent Darren James made a shocking discovery when it was determined that 50 billion dollars was accidentally deposited into his account.  James says when he and his wife saw the balance on the account they knew a big mistake had been made.

Cut 12 (11) “…it was crazy.”

James ended up returning the money.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding people to practice extreme caution if they plan on using fireworks this holiday weekend. Office Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue where you set off your fireworks is crucial, make sure you are at least 200 feet from any buildings or cars that could catch on fire.

Cut 7 (09) “…or vehicle.”

And never allow children to handle fireworks.

This afternoon Governor Edwards announced that he’s vetoed 28 pieces of legislation from the 2021 regular session. Two high profile bills, the ability to conceal carry without a permit and legislation to keep transgender females from competing in women’s sports are among the 28 vetoed If lawmakers agree to hold a historic veto session it would be held July 20^th.

State Democrats are losing yet another rural lawmaker as Bogalusa Representative Malinda White announces her departure in favor of identifying as No Party. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says White’s decision to leave the party is part of an ongoing theme that’s seen Democrats hemorrhage support outside of the major cities…

Cut 10 (10) “…results.”

White was first elected in 2015 as a Democrat.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding people to practice extreme caution if they plan on using fireworks this holiday weekend. Office Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says first make sure fireworks are legal in your city or parish first and that you’ve purchased your fireworks from a reputable vendor.

Cut 6 (12) “…appropriate permitting.”

Never set off fireworks if you are impaired or tired, you need to be able to react quickly if something goes wrong.

Did you know that more pets go missing over the 4^th of July than any other time of the year? Fireworks often scare pets leading them to run away. Louisiana SPCA Spokesperson Rebecca Melanson (mell-ah-sun) says having your pet tag along for a fireworks display is a bad idea.

Cut 3 (06)  “…with you.”

Also, make sure your pets ID tags are up to date.

State Democrats are losing yet another rural lawmaker as Bogalusa Representative Malinda White announces her departure in favor of identifying as No Party. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says this is the first major-party defection at the Capitol in nearly ten years.

Cut 9 (11) “…ideas.”

It is unclear which party White intends to caucus with going forward.

Baton Rouge real estate agent Darren James made a shocking discovery over the weekend when it was determined that 50 billion dollars was accidentally deposited into his account. While James is not sure where the money came from, he says he’s not the only person that this has happened to.

Cut 14 (09) “…amount of money.” 

James ended up returning all the money.

More pets go missing during the 4^th of July than any other time of the year. Jim Shannon talks with an animal advocate on how to keep your pet calm and from straying when the fireworks go off.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Jim Shannon.” 

Actor Will Smith saves the day, Independence Day that is, for New Orleans. The actor along with his production company have sponsored a fireworks display to take place Sunday. The Go 4^th on the river display is a last-minute show that was announced by the city Friday. Smith is in town shooting the feature film Emancipation.

Bogalusa Representative Malinda White is leaving the Democratic Party, citing frustration with partisan politics. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (29) …I’m Matt Doyle  

This afternoon Governor Edwards announced that he’s vetoed 28 pieces of legislation from the 2021 regular session. Two high profile bills, the ability to conceal carry without a permit and legislation to keep transgender females from competing in women’s’ sports are among the 28 vetoed If lawmakers agree to hold a historic veto session it would be held July 20^th.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding people to practice extreme caution if they plan on using fireworks this holiday weekend. Office Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says be sure to keep a water source handy in case things get out of control. Once you’re finished with your fireworks, Rodrigue says to dispose of them properly.

Cut 8 (11) “…in case.”

And never allow children to handle fireworks.

Did you know that the 4^th of July is when most pets go missing due to running away from fireworks. Louisiana SPCA Spokesperson Rebecca Melanson says if you live near a fireworks display keep your pet inside and play white noise or music to calm your pet. Also make sure your pet is properly tagged.

Cut 5  (12) “…a week.” 

More pets go missing during the 4^th of July than any other time of the year. Jim Shannon talks with an animal advocate on how to keep your pet calm and from straying when the fireworks go off.

Cut 1 (32) “ …I’m Jim Shannon.” 

____________________________________

 Bogalusa Representative Malinda White is leaving the Democratic Party, citing frustration with partisan politics. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (29) …I’m Matt Doyle  

______________________________________

Did you know that more pets go missing over the 4^th of July than any other time of the year? Fireworks often scare pets leading them to run away. Louisiana SPCA Spokesperson Rebecca Melanson (mell-ah-sun) says having your pet tag along for a fireworks display is a bad idea.

Cut 3 (06)  “…with you.”

But there are things you can do to keep them calm before the skies light up. Melanson says a tired dog is a calm dog…

Cut 4 (08) “…as scared (x2)”

If you live near a fireworks display keep your pet inside and play white noise or music to calm your pet. Melanson says also make sure your pet is properly tagged.

Cut 5  (12) “…a week.” 

Also, check that all gates are secure and patch any holes that your pet could possibly escape through. And never punish your pet during times of stress it will only make things worse

___________________________

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding people to practice extreme caution if they plan on using fireworks this holiday weekend. Office Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says first make sure fireworks are legal in your city or parish first and be sure you’ve purchased your fireworks from a reputable vendor.

Cut 6 (12) “…appropriate permitting.”

Never set off fireworks if you are impaired or tired, you need to be able to react quickly if something goes wrong.

Where you set off your fireworks is also important. Rodrigue says also make sure you are at least 200 feet from any buildings or cars that could catch on fire.

Cut 7 (08) “…or vehicles.”

Also, have a water source nearby if you need to extinguish them for any reason.

And finally, once you’re finished with your fireworks, Rodrigue says to dispose of them properly.

Cut 8 (11) “…in case.”

Last year due to large fireworks displays being canceled, Rodrigue says there were more reported injuries from individuals using them at home that normally do not use them. Rodrigue says the safest option is to attend a display put on by professionals.

_____________________________

State Democrats are losing yet another rural lawmaker as Bogalusa Representative Malinda White announces her departure in favor of identifying as No Party.

LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says this is the first major-party defection at the Capitol in nearly ten years.

Cut 9 (11) “…ideas.”

It is unclear which party White intends to caucus with going forward.

Alford says White’s decision to leave the party is part of an ongoing theme that’s seen Democrats hemorrhage support outside of the major cities…

Cut 10 (10) “…results.”

Friday morning on Talk Louisiana with Jim Engster former State Democratic Party head Stephen Handwerk indicated that attacks on White from the left-wing of the party “probably” played a role in this decision.

Alford says political life is often not easy for independent candidates but White is in an unusual district that sees both Democrats and Republicans find success.

Cut  11 (09) “….specifically” 

White was first elected in 2015 as a Democrat.

_________________________________________________

Baton Rouge real estate agent Darren James made a shocking discovery over the weekend when it was determined that 50 billion dollars was accidentally deposited into his account.  James says when he and his wife saw the balance on the account they knew a big mistake had been made.

Cut 12 (11) “…it was crazy.”

James ended up returning all of the money but since it was deposited on a Saturday it stayed in his account for three days.

Cut 13 (12) “…on Tuesday”

While James is not sure where the money came from, he says he’s not the only person that this has happened to.

Cut 14 (12) “…happened to.” 

Bogalusa Representative Malinda White is leaving the Democratic Party, citing frustration with partisan politics. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (29) …I’m Matt Doyle  

Operation Dry Water, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries campaign to keep impaired boaters off the water is underway. Boating Education Coordinator Lt Dean Aucoin says if you’re caught impaired while operating a vessel on the water it will also impact your driving privileges on the road.

Cut 11 (07) “…as well.”

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding people to practice extreme caution if they plan on using fireworks this holiday weekend. Office Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue where you set off your fireworks is crucial, make sure you are at least 200 feet from any buildings or cars that could catch on fire.

Cut 7 (09) “…or vehicle.”

And never set off fireworks if you are impaired or tired, you need to be able to react quickly if something goes wrong.

Baton Rouge real estate agent Darren James made a shocking discovery over the weekend when it was determined that 50 billion dollars was accidentally deposited into his account.  James ended up returning all of the money but since it was deposited on a Saturday it stayed in his account for three days.

Cut 13 (12) “…on Tuesday”

The State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding people to practice extreme caution if they plan on using fireworks this holiday weekend. Office Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says first make sure fireworks are legal in your city or parish first and be sure you’ve purchased your fireworks from a reputable vendor.

Cut 6 (12) “…appropriate permitting.”

Never set off fireworks if you are impaired or tired, you need to be able to react quickly if something goes wrong.

Baton Rouge real estate agent Darren James made a shocking discovery over the weekend when it was determined that 50 billion dollars was accidentally deposited into his account.  James says when he and his wife saw the balance on the account they knew a big mistake had been made.

Cut 12 (11) “…it was crazy.”

More pets go missing during the 4^th of July holiday than any other time of the year. Jim Shannon talks with an animal advocate on how to keep your pet calm and from straying when the fireworks go off.

Cut 1 (31) “ …I’m Jim Shannon.” 

New Iberia will hold a parade tonight in honor of pole vaulter Morgan LeLeux, who has made the U.S. Olympic team.  Taylor Sharp has the story.

Cut 1 (27) “…I’m Taylor Sharp”

Following a failed drug test, U-S track star and former LSU standout Sha’Carri Richardson will not be competing in the Tokyo Olympics. Richardson won the 100 meters at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials on June 19,  but testing positive for marijuana means a 30-day suspension for the star. On a TV appearance this morning she said she’s not ruling out future Olympic games.

More pets go missing on the 4^th of July than any other day of the year due to fireworks.  Louisiana SPCA Spokesperson Rebecca Melanson (mell-ah-sun) be proactive and try to calm your pet, she says a tired dog is a calm dog…

Cut 4 (08) “…as scared (x2)”

Also make sure their ID tags are up to date and keep them inside if you live near a display.

AAA estimates 47.7 million Americans will travel for the 4^th of July weekend, a 40 percent increase from last year. AAA analyst Don Redman says 91 percent of those travelers will go by automobile and demand is driving gas prices through the roof. Across the Gulf south prices are averaging a few cents under 2.80 a gallon…

Cut 8 (11) “…August.”

AAA estimates 47.7 million Americans will travel for the 4^th of July weekend, a 40 percent increase from last year. AAA analyst Don Redman says in our region we’re expecting 4.5 million travelers, proof that folks are finally ready to get out and hit the road after being cooped up for over a year…

Cut 7 (09) “…recorded.”

Operation Dry Water is underway, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries campaign to keep impaired boaters off the water. Boating Education Coordinator Lt Dean Aucoin with LDWF says if you’re caught impaired while operating a vessel on the water it will also impact your driving privileges on the road.

Cut 11 (07) “…as well.”

So far, this year there have been 14 boating fatalities in the state, 30-percent of those were alcohol-related.

The first confirmed case of the Delta-plus coronavirus variant in Louisiana was discovered this week. Delta-plus is thought to share the same highly transmissible qualities as the standard Delta variant while being even less easily neutralized by antibodies. Ochsner Health Research Scientist Amy Feehan…

Cut 13 (05) “…do it.”

The state’s vaccination rate is 35-percent.

Did you know that more pets go missing over the 4^th of July than any other time of the year? Fireworks often scare pets leading them to run away. Louisiana SPCA Spokesperson Rebecca Melanson says having your pet tag along for a fireworks display is a bad idea.

Cut 3 (07)  “…with you.”

Make sure your pet’s ID tags are up-to-date and keep them inside if you live near a display.