Épisodes

  • Dwight Hudson

    Dwight Hudson
    Mar 3 2025
    Metro Councilman Dwight Hudson joins the show to discuss the ongoing debate over the library millage with the mayor's administration, the library, and the Metro Council. The discussions aim to reach a consensus on the budget, with a deadline for a November ballot set for June. The mayor has warned that without a solution, significant job cuts may be necessary.

    Hudson believes the proposed reduction or relocation of the library millage will not fully address the estimated $20 million shortfall but will help mitigate it.Hudson emphasized the need for workforce optimization, suggesting that reducing services to a population of about 90,000 people will naturally lead to fewer employees in certain areas. He stressed the importance of conducting needs assessments in departments impacted by the general fund to ensure long-term sustainability.The conversation also touched on the evolution of government and the need to prioritize city-parish spending.

    Hudson credited the mayor for initiating discussions on budget prioritization and dedications, which had been challenging in the past. He expressed optimism about reaching a plan that the Metro Council and voters could approve, whether it aligns with the mayor's current plan or a new one.Hudson highlighted the importance of flexibility in city-parish budgets while acknowledging constituents' concerns about government trust.

    He noted that the library's proposed millage of 10.5 might be too high and that ongoing discussions aim to determine the appropriate funding level. Hudson also mentioned previous efforts to address other budget areas, such as mosquito abatement and rodent control, which have a three-year fund balance.Overall, Hudson is encouraged by the current conversations and believes they present an opportunity to make significant positive changes for the parish.
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    11 min
  • Moon Griffon

    Moon Griffon
    Mar 3 2025
    Moon Griffon joined the show to discuss the meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, focusing on its potential impact on foreign policy. He also addressed Louisiana's reliance on federal government support and the implications of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) dollars being tax-free. Griffon provided insights into how these issues are interconnected and their significance for both national and local contexts, highlighting the broader effects on policy and the state's financial landscape.
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    10 min
  • Paul Sawyer

    Paul Sawyer
    Mar 3 2025
    Paul Sawyer, the executive director of the Amite River Basin Commission, has a long history in congressional delegation, having worked for Congressman Baker and Garrett Graves. His career has focused on flood control and protecting homes and structures. The Amite River Basin Commission, which has been around for decades, was recently reinvented by the legislature to address recurring floods, such as those in 1983 and 2016. The commission now consists of 13 members, including seven parish presidents who are accountable to their constituents.The commission's jurisdiction extends from the Mississippi line to Lake Maurepas, covering parishes like East Feliciana, East Baton Rouge, Livingston, Ascension, and St. James.

    The commission's mission is to protect homes and communities from flood risk, which can lead to lower flood insurance premiums.A significant project for the commission is the Comite Diversion Project. Initially, the commission's role was to acquire properties and rights of way, while the Corps of Engineers would build the canal. Now, the commission acts as an ombudsman, helping to resolve issues and facilitate progress. Sawyer, leveraging his relationships with various governmental bodies, aims to expedite problem-solving.Sawyer estimates that the Comite Diversion Project will be functional by 2028, although he hopes it will be completed sooner.

    His experience with the project, dating back to the 1990s, informs his cautious optimism. Despite past delays, Sawyer believes the necessary elements are in place for timely completion, but he remains realistic about potential setbacks.
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    14 min
  • Dr Asif Talukder

    Dr Asif Talukder
    Mar 3 2025
    Colorectal Surgeon, Dr. Asif Talukder joins the show on this Medical Monday to discuss one of his patients, Sheryl Miller, who was recognized as the Our Lady of the Lake Geaux Hero at the LSU Women's Basketball game on February 20th during the team's cancer awareness game. The discussion speaks on colon cancer more broadly including symptoms and subsequent treatment options.
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    13 min
  • Ryan Jay

    Ryan Jay
    Mar 3 2025
    Entertainment critic Ryan Jay discussed the Oscars, highlighting the triumphant win of “Anora” and the success of “Nickel Boys,” which was filmed in Louisiana. He shared his insights on these films and their impact, emphasizing the significance of “Nickel Boys” being shot locally. Jay’s commentary provided a deeper understanding of the Oscars’ outcomes and the importance of regional filmmaking.
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    8 min
  • Phillip Devillier

    Phillip Devillier
    Feb 28 2025
    Haggai Davis and Emily Chenevert sit in for Brian to speak with State Representative Phillip DeVillier to discuss Louisiana's tax policy and provide a recap of the recent legislative session. DeVillier highlights key changes and their potential impact on residents and businesses. The conversation focuses on efforts to improve the state's fiscal health and ensure fair taxation practices.
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    13 min
  • Susana Schowen

    Susana Schowen
    Feb 28 2025
    Haggai Davis and Emily Chenevert sit in for Brian to speak with Secretary of Louisiana Workforce Commission, Susana Schowen to discuss the current state of Louisiana's workforce economy and the importance of job fairs across the state. Schowen emphasizes efforts to connect job seekers with employers and improve employment opportunities, highlighting the role of these events in strengthening the local economy.

    For more information, visit: https://www.laworks.net/
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    12 min
  • Susan Rogers and Toni Thompson

    Susan Rogers and Toni Thompson
    Feb 28 2025
    Haggai Davis and Emily Chenevert sit in for Brian to speak with Susan Rogers and Toni Thompson from Empower 225 to discuss the crucial impact of role models and mentors on youth success. They highlight their efforts in providing essential life skills to help young people transition into adulthood. Their work emphasizes the importance of guidance and support in shaping a positive future for the next generation.

    For more information, visit: https://empower225.org/
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    13 min