Lafayette is taking steps to strengthen its vibrant music ecosystem. Colleen Crain explains.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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People in the eight parishes affected most by Hurricane Francine can start applying for disaster benefits today. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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On Saturday LDWF is celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day by hosting events at four locations across the state.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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As Lafayette celebrates 50 years of Festival of D’Acadiens and Creole, they’re launching an initiative to strengthen its music community. For three weeks in October, Sound Music Cities will conduct a music census. Lafayette Mayor-President, Monique Boulet (boo-LAY) says the data collected from musicians, venue owners, educators, producers and all stakeholders will guide future support and growth.

Cut 4 (10) “…as it always has been.”

It’s also the 50^th year for Beausoleil (BO-so-lay). Boulet says the region is filled with an abundance of talent and the young musicians are blossoming.

Cut 5 (11) “…a genre alive.”

The Lafayette Music Census begins October first and runs for three weeks. Boulet says the project aims to keep the region’s music authentic and organic and support its growth for the next 50 years.

Cut 6 (11) …those dance halls.”

The Cajun, Creole, and Zydeco music of the region will be featured at Festival of D’Acadiens and Creole, October 11th through the 13^th.

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Those living in the eight parishes most affected by Hurricane Francine can start applying for DSNAP benefits today. Last week, the Department of Children and Family Services received federal approval for multiple forms of disaster food assistance. Sammy Guillory with DCFS says registration for the first three days is based on the applicant’s last name.

Cut 7 (10) “…N through Z.”

And next Monday and Tuesday, registration is open to everyone in those eight parishes. Once approved, applicants should get their DSNAP cards within two to three days. Guillory says there are certain requirements.

Cut 8 (13) “…based on that.”

Guillory says those who are already receiving SNAP benefits shouldn’t bother to apply.

Cut 9 (09)  “…get more benefits.”

Applications are done over the phone; those unable to do so, including the elderly and disabled, can apply in person.

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is celebrating National Hunting and Fishing Day Saturday by hosting events at four locations across the state.  LDWF Secretary Madison Sheahan says the event showcases what LDWF does daily.

Cut 10 (08) “…about this weekend.”

These events aim to promote outdoor activities, wildlife conservation, and responsible hunting and fishing practices. Sheahan says attendees can participate in hands-on activities like archery, fishing, and target shooting.

Cut 11 (13) “…see what we do.”

The events are designed to educate both newcomers and seasoned sportsmen about sustainable practices and the importance of wildlife management. Sheahan says National Hunting and Fishing Day spotlights Louisiana’s rich outdoor heritage while fostering community involvement in conservation efforts.

Cut 12 (08) “…able to do that.”

For information on event locations and times go to WLF-dot-Louisiana-dot-gov.

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Senator Bill Cassidy says Louisiana is getting four-million dollars for transportation projects. Two-million is going to New Orleans International Airport, which will use the money for an automated people mover system.

Cut 13 (11)  “…and New Orleans.”

As for the other two-million dollars…

Cut 14 (09) “…to alleviate congestion.”

Cassidy says shoring up the state’s infrastructure is vital for the state’s future.

Cut 15 (13) “…to move to.”

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Saints Pro bowl center Erik McCoy will reportedly miss the next six to eight weeks after undergoing surgery on his groin. McCoy was injured in the first quarter in the loss to the Eagles and New Orleans had trouble moving the ball against Philadelphia’s defense. WWL Saints analyst Mike Detillier says Lucas Patrick will take McCoy’s place at center…

Cut 16 (15)   “…type center”

Detillier says McCoy is the glue of the Saints offensive line…

Cut 17 (12) “…Erik McCoy .”

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ULM begins Sun Belt play this Saturday with a road game at Troy, the back-to-back conference champs. The Warhawks rank 130th in passing offense, coach Bryant Vincent knows they can be better…

Cut 18 (14)  “…execute.”

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Saturday’s LSU-South Alabama game will be a homecoming for Jaguars coach Major Applewhite, who grew up in Baton Rouge and was a star quarterback at Catholic High. But Applewhite is treating his trip to B-R as an opportunity to go 3-and-2 on the season…

Cut 19 (22) “….good performance”  

Applewhite is in his first season as the head coach at South Alabama and the Jaguars enter the game as huge underdogs. LSU is favored by 22.5. Applewhite on what it will take to pull off the upset…

Cut 20 (19) “..as a program”

With six weeks to go until the 2024 election, voter interest appears to be waning. JNC Analytics Founder and President John Couvillion (KOO-vee-ahn) says one reason is election fatigue…

Cut 13 (08) “…him and Biden.” 

Additionally, an increasing number of undecided voters and lower-than-expected turnout at campaign events suggest that enthusiasm may be significantly lower compared to that of previous election cycles. 

The Senate will once again be taking up Senator Bill Cassidy’s RISEE (RISE) Act. RISEE, with two E’s, stands for Reinvesting In Shorelines Economies and Ecosystems Act. Senator Cassidy says the bill amends the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act, or GOMESA.

Cut 9 (13)  “…protection and resiliency.”

Tropical Storm Helene is expected to strengthen into a Category 3 hurricane and make landfall in Florida’s Panhandle by Thursday, and Louisiana is out of the crosshairs.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

The national champion LSU women’s gymnastics team is named the grand marshal of the 2024 Natchitoches Christmas Parade. Organizers say the team has everything they’re looking for – it represents camaraderie, provides wholesome family entertainment and upholds great values.

Having passed up a re-election bid, Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is trying to squeeze his legislative priorities into the three-plus months he has left in office. He is working with New Orleans Democrat Troy Carter on legislation that would, among other things, remove income limits to qualify for grants to pay off disaster recovery loans.

Cut 15 (13) “…very little money.”

The Senate will again take up Senator Bill Cassidy’s RISEE (RISE) Act. Cassidy says RISEE, or Reinvesting in Shorelines Economies and Ecosystems Act amends the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act and removing the revenue-sharing cap will bring tremendous benefits to the state.

Cut 10 (12) “…good-paying jobs.”

The Natchitoches Christmas Parade has its grand marshal for 2024. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

With less than six weeks until the 2024 election, voter interest appears to be waning, as indicated by multiple data points. Founder and President of JNC Analytics John Couvillion says some possible indicators are…

Cut 12 (13) “…election cycle.”

Senator Bill Cassidy is again bringing his RISEE (RISE) Act before the Senate. He says RISEE, or Reinvesting in Shorelines Economies and Ecosystems Act will bring billions to the state to rebuild shorelines, support flood structures and bring in thousands of good paying jobs. Cassidy hopes to bring the bill to the finish line this time around.

Cut 11 (09) “…hard on that.”

The Senate Energy and National Resources Committee is slated to mark up the bill on Thursday

An increasing number of undecided voters and lower-than-expected turnout at campaign events suggest that enthusiasm may be significantly lower compared to previous election cycles says President of JNC Analytics, John Couvillion and he expects to learn more from participation in mail-in ballots…

Cut 14 (11) “…October 18th.”

Tropical Storm Helene is expected to strengthen into a Category 3 hurricane. The exact landfall location remains uncertain. Louisiana State Climatologist Jay Grimes…

Cut 5 (11) “…bayou state.”

Grymes says we here in Louisiana can expect a cold front.

It’s the 98th year for the Natchitoches Christmas Festival and they’re excited about this year’s grand marshal for the Christmas Parade. Jill Leo, the director of festivals and events with the Natchitoches Historic District Business Association, says organizers weren’t sure if the National Champion LSU Gymnastics Team would accept their invitation.

Cut 8 (13) “…honor for us.”

Apparent dissatisfaction with the direction of both major parties seems to be impacting voter interest in the upcoming election. Founder and President of JNC Analytics John Couvillion says polarizing candidates and repetitive media coverage are contributing and he blames the lower interest compared to the 2020 election on election fatigue…

Cut 13 (08) “…him and Biden.” 

Couvillion adds, lower-than-expected turnout at campaign events suggests that enthusiasm may be significantly lower.

The Senate will again take up Senator Bill Cassidy’s RISEE (RISE) Act. Cassidy says RISEE, or Reinvesting in Shorelines Economies and Ecosystems Act amends the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act and removing the revenue-sharing cap will bring tremendous benefits to the state.

Cut 10 (12) “…good-paying jobs.”

Cassidy hopes to bring the bill to the finish line this time around.

Tropical Storm Helene is moving northwest near the western Caribbean and not expected to impact Louisiana. Louisiana State Climatologist Jay Grimes…

Cut 4 (11) “…support development.”

Grymes says to stay prepared but the closer we get to November Louisiana’s risk of hurricanes drops to nearly zero.

The Natchitoches Christmas Parade has its grand marshal for 2024. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

Senator Bill Cassidy is again bringing his RISEE (RISE) Act before the Senate. He says RISEE, or Reinvesting in Shorelines Economies and Ecosystems Act and bring billions to the state to rebuild shorelines, support flood structures and bring in thousands of good paying jobs.

Cassidy hopes to bring the bill to the finish line this time around.

Cut 11 (09) “…hard on that.”

The Senate Energy and National Resources Committee is slated to mark up the bill on Thursday.

With less than six weeks until the 2024 election, voter interest appears to be waning, as indicated by multiple data points. Founder and President of JNC Analytics John Couvillion says a growing sense of fatigue among voters, with some disengaging from political discourse.

Cut 12 (13) “…election cycle.”

As she strengthens, Louisiana appears to be out of Tropical Storm Helene’s crosshairs.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

This is the 98th year for the Natchitoches Christmas Festival and they are excited to announce their grand marshal for the 2024 Christmas Parade.

Cut 6 (06) …we are thrilled.”

Jill Leo, the director of festivals and events with the Natchitoches Historic District Business Association, says the defending national champions have everything that organizers look for in a grand marshal. She says the team represents great camaraderie, wholesome family fun and great values.

Tropical Storm Helene is expected to strengthen into a Category 3 hurricane and make landfall in Florida’s Panhandle by Thursday.  Louisiana State Climatologist Jay Grimes says so far it hasn’t developed into a Tropical Storm yet…

Cut 3 (13) “…system.”

Grymes says to stay prepared but the closer we get to November Louisiana’s risk of hurricanes drops to nearly zero.

The LSU Gymnastics team was named Grand Marshal for the 2024 Natchitoches Christmas Parade. Jill Leo, the director of festivals and events with the Natchitoches Historic District Business Association, says the defending national champions have everything that organizers look for in a grand marshal.

Cut 7 (12) “…uphold great values.”

This is the 98th year for the Natchitoches Christmas Festival, which attracts visitors from across the country.

The Senate will once again be taking up Senator Bill Cassidy’s RISEE (RISE) Act. RISEE, with two E’s, stands for Reinvesting In Shorelines Economies and Ecosystems Act. Senator Cassidy says the bill amends the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act, or GOMESA.

Cut 9 (13)  “…protection and resiliency.”

The Senate Energy and National Resources Committee is slated to mark up the bill on Thursday.

In an emotional press conference Monday afternoon, Pineville Mayor Rich Dupree announced he will resign effective October 6th. In August, Dupree admitted to a brief affair with a former employee who later filed a hostile workplace environment complaint with the EEOC. Dupree said he was honored to have served as Mayor and was proud of his administration’s progress…

Cut 9 (11)  “…that’s underway.”

The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is taking its fight against waste tires to the people. LDEQ Secretary Aurelia Giacometto (jock-uh-MET-oh) says tires that are properly disposed of not only keep the state clean, but also go to good use.

Cut 5 (13) “…their usable lifespan.”

The department is holding six town hall meetings across the state to gain input on changes that it can present to Governor Landry.

Bossier Parish authorities arrested an Elm Grove man who allegedly held a woman captive for three days and sexually assaulted her.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 3 (36) “…Im Sean Richardson.”

Having passed up a re-election bid, Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is trying to cram in his legislative priorities in the three-plus months he has left in office. Among the bipartisan bills he’s working on is one which would make it easier for governors to request lump-sum payments for recovery for smaller-scale disaster.

The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is taking its fight against waste tires to the people across the state. LDEQ Secretary Aurelia Giacometto (jock-uh-MET-oh) says improperly disposed tires continue to plague the state.

Cut 6 (12) …in drainage ditches.”

DEQ is holding a series of town hall meetings across the state to gain input on potential changes that it can present to Governor Landry.

Having passed up a re-election bid, Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is trying to cram in his legislative priorities in the three-plus months he has left in office. Among the bipartisan bills he’s working on is one which would make it easier for governors to request lump-sum payments for recovery for smaller-scale disasters.

Cut 13 (11)  “…recovery from there.”

Graves is also working on a bill to hold FEMA accountable for delays in payments to disaster victims.

Amidst controversy, Pineville Mayor Rich Dupree is stepping down. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

A man who Bossier Parish investigators say held a woman against her will for three days and sexually assaulted her is under arrest. The sheriff’s office says 52-year-old Gary Free of Elm Grove held the woman in a cabin at the Red River South Marina before she was able to escape. Free was arrested and booked on numerous charges including second-degree kidnapping and first-degree rape.

In an emotional press conference Yesterday, Pineville Mayor Rich Dupree announced he will resign. In August, Dupree admitted to a brief affair with a former employee who later filed a  complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Dupree did not comment on the complaint during his announcement but said he could not in good faith allow his family, supporters, or administration to endure mean spirited politics.

Cut 8 (08) “…anonymity.”

The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is taking its fight against waste tires to the people across the state. And will host six town hall meetings across the state to raise awareness.  LDEQ Secretary Aurelia Giacometto (jock-uh-MET-oh)  says tires that are properly disposed of not only keep the state clean, but go to good use.

Cut 5 (13) “…their usable lifespan.”
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A man Bossier Parish investigators say held a woman against her will for three days and sexually assaulted her is under arrest. The sheriff’s office says 52-year-old Gary Free of Elm Grove held the woman in a cabin at the Red River South Marina before she was able to escape. Lieutenant Matt Gaydos says Free was eventually taken into custody after jumping in the river to avoid arrest, and chasing the victim with a gun.

Cut 11 (05) “…became victims.”

Since he’s not running for reelection, Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is working to get things done in the few months left he has in office.  Graves is working on several bipartisan bills, one them a bill to hold FEMA accountable for delays in payments to disaster victims.

Cut 14 (09) “…an interest penalty.”