Mornings with Brian Haldane

The FBI's latest reported crime statistics show a significant national decrease in both violent and property crime. Experts attribute this positive shift to targeted policing strategies, such as hotspot enforcement, even as departments manage lower staffing levels. Stronger community relationships and increased reporting by residents also play a key role in improving public safety. While national trends remain optimistic, local crime dynamics still require tailored, community-focused solutions.

Baton Rouge community leaders are launching a major initiative to redevelop the Raising Cane's River Center into a thriving economic engine. By securing a public-private partnership, the city aims to add square footage and construct an adjacent 350-to-400-room headquarters hotel to attract large-scale conventions. Visit Baton Rouge will temporarily oversee facility management through an open selection process while long-term development plans are finalized. Supported by industry expert Butch Spiridon, this strategic revitalization seeks to boost local tax revenue and establish Baton Rouge as a top-tier event destination.

The tragic death of a teenager at the abandoned Plaza Tower in New Orleans underscores the growing dangers surrounding urban exploration in neglected structures. Driven by social media trends, thrill-seekers frequently break into hazardous, deteriorating buildings across Louisiana. While cities struggle with safety concerns and legal liabilities, tearing down irredeemable eyesores like the former Lindy Boggs Hospital paves the way for community rebirth. Transforming these vacant liabilities into active, revitalized spaces remains critical for the region's economic and physical safety.

Louisiana is witnessing high levels of economic development activity, highlighted by discussions surrounding a potential SpaceX project in the southern region. While initial construction phases generate significant sales tax revenue for local infrastructure and schools, communities must prepare for long-term sustainability after construction ends. Regional growth in areas like Sterlington shows the broader impact of commercial expansion on local hospitality and housing. To support this momentum, completing critical transportation corridors like I-49 remains a top priority for state leaders.

LegisGator is expanding into a major three-day policy summit at L'Auberge Casino Resort in Lake Charles to drive Louisiana's economic future. Hosted by LABI and regional partners, the event gathers business leaders, lawmakers, and policy experts to address key challenges. Panels will focus heavily on legal reform, energy expansion, and workforce upskilling to prepare workers for incoming state investments. Consequently, meeting early in the planning cycle allows decision-makers to build a proactive legislative strategy for long-term growth.

A grueling 27-day murder-for-hire trial in Iberville Parish concluded with a racketeering acquittal, illustrating the immense logistical challenges and jury selection hurdles of multi-defendant cases. Meanwhile, the 18-year sentencing of Derrick "Stanka" Perkins in Baton Rouge sparks debate over how underfunded prosecutors should prioritize cases involving drug facilitators and body disposal. The discussion highlights local legal strains while drawing parallels to high-profile criminal prosecutions across the country. Finally, the long-awaited Las Vegas trial of Duane "Keffe D" Davis for the 1996 murder of Tupac Shakur tests whether decades-old admissions and recorded evidence can deliver justice long after the original crime.

Dearman’s Diner is expanding its Baton Rouge burger legacy with the upcoming launch of Dearman’s South at Brickyard South on August 29. Casey Evans and Weston Williams discuss the new downtown location, which will offer classic Dearman’s burgers alongside creative specialty options. The team also shares its approach to fresh beef, promoting from within, catering, and keeping the nearly 70-year-old original location true to its roots.

Tommy Faucheux, president of the Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association, discusses the latest Gulf of America offshore lease sale, which generated nearly $99 million in bids from 12 companies.Faucheux explains how offshore leases work and why energy development requires long-term planning. He says the process from securing a lease to producing oil can take roughly 10 years, making consistent federal policy critical for companies making major investments.The conversation also examines the economic impact of offshore energy on Louisiana, including jobs, earnings, coastal restoration and infrastructure. Faucheux says continued lease sales, permitting reform and infrastructure investment could help sustain Louisiana’s energy industry and prepare future workers for careers in the sector.

Brian Haldane and Patrick “Patty G” Gremillion discuss LSU’s expanding statewide presence before turning to questions about safety and perception in downtown Baton Rouge.The hosts examine a viral video showing a late-night fight outside a downtown nightclub and question whether the incident accurately reflects overall public safety. They note the fight occurred around 2 a.m. and say police quickly responded to break up the altercation.The conversation also explores how social media can amplify isolated incidents and shape perceptions of downtown. With planned improvements to downtown Baton Rouge and the River Center, the hosts argue that the city needs to do a better job telling its story while continuing to address legitimate safety concerns.

LSU System President Dr. Wade Rousse discusses major changes underway across LSU, including plans to improve academic excellence, expand student access and strengthen regional campuses. Rousse explains how clearer pathways could help students begin at regional campuses and later transfer to the main Baton Rouge campus.He also addresses the financial challenges facing LSU Athletics, emphasizing that the university is exploring new revenue options while rejecting the characterization of the preliminary plan as private equity.Rousse says LSU’s broader mission is to prepare Louisiana’s workforce, improve higher education outcomes and help create long-term economic opportunities across the state.

Rachael Fricke of Guaranty Health explains how the company partners with healthcare organizations to improve operations, patient experiences and team member experiences. Rather than using a one-size-fits-all consulting model, Guaranty Health provides customized support and fractional C-suite leadership tailored to each organization.Fricke emphasizes the importance of involving frontline employees in developing solutions and creating healthcare experiences that treat patients as individuals. She also shares a personal story that reinforced her belief that healthcare should be intentional, compassionate and focused on the human experience.Guaranty Health works with healthcare organizations ranging from health systems and FQHCs to urgent care and wellness centers.

In this episode of Farm to Studio, Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Dr. Mike Strain discusses the strength and future of Louisiana agriculture. He highlights major rice exports, including a recent shipment to Kenya through the Food for Peace program, and explains how Louisiana ports and infrastructure support global trade. Strain also explores the economic impact of the state’s poultry industry, the growing use of AI, drones and precision farming technology, and the importance of creating value-added products. The conversation encourages consumers to buy fresh and buy local while supporting Louisiana farmers and businesses. The episode also touches on LSU tailgating, Louisiana food traditions and the state’s efforts to expand agricultural exports around the world.

This week’s Crime Stoppers segment covers ongoing missing-person investigations, community crime prevention, and wanted suspects in the Baton Rouge area.The discussion highlights the continued search for Ja'Derrius Minnieweather and the reported disappearance of Danielle S.Q. Lee and her 10-year-old daughter, Alana. Crime Stoppers stresses the importance of timely tips in helping investigators solve cases and provide closure for families.The episode also promotes a student video contest focused on preventing drug abuse, with cash prizes for winning entries. Finally, authorities seek information on several wanted individuals, including a suspect accused of stealing a $3,100 guitar.Listeners can provide anonymous information through Crime Stoppers at 344-STOP (344-7867) or the P3 Tips app.

Laura Beauchamp of Entergy discusses the impact of Meta’s massive data center project on Louisiana. She explains how the project is creating jobs, supporting local businesses, increasing tax revenue, and keeping more construction work within the state.The conversation also addresses Entergy’s plans to build 10 power plants, new substations, and hundreds of miles of transmission lines to meet growing demand without placing additional strain on other customers.Beauchamp says the project will continue developing over the next six to seven years and highlights investments in Louisiana’s workforce and universities. She also addresses concerns about electricity rates, saying Meta will pay its share and that the project could save customers an estimated $2.6 billion over 20 years.

AI Safety and TrainingThis episode of Tech Gumbo explores the rapid growth of artificial intelligence and the challenges that come with increasingly powerful AI models. Haggai Davis discusses AI systems that have demonstrated unexpected behavior during testing and why stronger safeguards may be necessary.The conversation also highlights a hands-on AI workshop designed to help people gain practical experience using tools such as Claude, ChatGPT, and Gemini.Battery Technology and DronesThe discussion shifts to sodium-ion batteries and their potential to provide a safer, more affordable alternative to traditional lithium-ion technology. The hosts explore how these batteries could benefit electric vehicles and data centers.The episode wraps up with concerns surrounding drones, LiDAR, cameras, and connected smart-home devices, including questions about privacy, security, and communications technology.Overall, this episode covers the latest technology trends while keeping the conversation practical, accessible, and entertaining.

Judge Don Johnson reflects on his 33-year judicial career and what comes next as he approaches retirement from the bench. He discusses criminal justice reform, the importance of combining accountability with prevention, and using data to better assess risks in bail and pretrial decisions. Johnson also shares his interest in teaching, public service, government reform, and possibly running for another elected office.

On this episode of Mornings with Brian Haldane, EBR School Board member Patrick Martin discusses Superintendent Lamont Cole’s status following his indictment. Martin explains why the board has not suspended or removed Cole, citing state law, his employment contract and the ongoing attorney general investigation.Martin also outlines plans for increased oversight of school district contracts, including a deeper review by the district’s accounting firm. Despite the controversy, he says EBR Schools are off to a strong start, with improved teacher staffing and fewer transportation problems. The board’s focus, he says, remains protecting public funds while maintaining stability and progress for students.

On this episode of Mornings with Brian Haldane and Roland, Central mayoral candidate Lon Vicknair discusses why he is running for mayor and what he believes the city needs moving forward. A Central native and U.S. Navy veteran, Vicknair highlights infrastructure, drainage, responsible growth, public safety and economic development as key priorities.He outlines his four campaign pillars—Christ, community, commerce and crime—and explains his vision for balancing Central’s rural areas with its growing city center. Vicknair also discusses his experience as Chief of Staff, his approach to public-private partnerships and his desire to preserve Central’s strong sense of community while preparing for future growth.

State Representative Paul Sawyer discusses the growing use of Amazon delivery drones in Baton Rouge. The conversation explores residents’ concerns about drone noise, flight patterns and privacy, while also examining how the FAA, state government and local officials regulate the technology. Sawyer explains why drones are only beginning to transform transportation and logistics, with artificial intelligence, advanced sensors and passenger-carrying aircraft potentially shaping the future. The discussion also highlights why asking questions about privacy and public safety now could help communities prepare for the rapid expansion of drone technology.

On this episode of **“Legally Served,” attorney Franz Borghardt breaks down the legal challenges surrounding Luigi Mangione’s upcoming murder trial, including the decision to use an anonymous jury. Borghardt explains why finding impartial jurors could be difficult in such a high-profile case and examines concerns about harassment, intimidation, social media and facial-recognition technology. The conversation also explores jury nullification, public sympathy for Mangione and the challenges of separating personal opinions from legal responsibilities.The discussion then turns to a separate New Orleans legal controversy involving Attorney General Liz Murrill and efforts to investigate the circumstances surrounding criminal charges against her. Borghardt examines questions about prosecutorial discretion, grand jury secrecy and the potential consequences when government power is used against citizens.

Louisiana small businesses drive the state's economy, but local owners still face major challenges regarding labor quality, rising insurance costs, and persistent lawsuit abuse. Recent legislative sessions yielded encouraging victories by reforming workers' compensation rules and revitalizing workforce development programs like Bayou Works. To secure long-term competitiveness against neighboring states, leaders are focusing on expanding trade school partnerships and introducing career pathways to high school students early. As small business optimism trends upward, ongoing advocacy aims to lower tax burdens and foster a thriving economic climate for every parish.

Baton Rouge Police Chief TJ Morse shared updates on city safety, highlighting a more than 10% reduction in violent crime and homicides. He detailed the critical role of Flock license plate cameras, which act as a major force multiplier by aiding in case resolution and recovering millions in stolen property. Chief Morse addressed public privacy concerns, explaining that the technology strictly captures still images on public roads without infringing on constitutional rights. Additionally, the department is preparing for back-to-school traffic and actively recruiting new officers and lateral transfers for its upcoming training academies.

Louisiana voters will decide on Proposition 4 this November, a proposed constitutional amendment that would restrict governors to two lifetime terms. Representative Mike Bayham navigated intense legislative hurdles and built bipartisan support to push the measure through the House. The initiative seeks to end the state's legacy of political dynasties and encourage new political leadership. Additionally, lawmakers passed legislation regulating the use of AI-generated voice impersonations in campaign communications to prevent voter deception.

Louisiana’s political landscape faces major movement following candidate qualifying, highlighted by a high-stakes 6th Congressional District primary between Blake Miguez and Rick Edmonds. Former Governor John Bel Edwards endorsed Democrat Pat Forbes in the 6th District, though analysts view the open-primary path for Democrats as steep amidst strong Republican presence. In St. Tammany Parish, a competitive sheriff’s race unfolds following back-to-back arrests of former officeholders, drawing four experienced law enforcement figures into the field. Concurrently, regional discussions marked the 10th anniversary of the non-tropical 2016 flood, recalling its widespread impact on East Baton Rouge and Livingston Parishes.

BREC leadership is establishing a high-performance operational strategy focused on addressing $1 billion in deferred maintenance across parish park facilities. Instead of taking on new additions, the agency is re-evaluating workforce efficiency to ensure existing parks are cleanly maintained and welcoming. Strict fiscal guidelines now require secured funding prior to project approval, alongside an evaluation to offload or repurpose 50 surplus properties. Community engagement remains a core focus, supported by public master planning for City Park and zoo-led educational initiatives like Project ARK.

Louisiana is experiencing unprecedented economic growth driven by major corporate investments that significantly raise average regional wages. Governor Jeff Landry defended the strategic use of non-disclosure agreements during business negotiations to keep the state competitive against rival regions. Regarding college sports, Landry clarified that state discussions aim to create a sustainable financial model for LSU Athletics without involving private equity. Finally, the governor underscored state law enforcement efforts that have lowered crime in New Orleans, stressing the need for strong state-local collaboration.

The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry (LABI) is officially accepting orders for its upcoming issue of Fifth & Main magazine. Launching this November, the upcoming edition centers on critical workforce strategies and economic developments shaping Louisiana's future. The publication reaches over 5,000 top policy makers and executives, offering organizations an influential platform to share their story. Businesses can secure featured profiles or ad spaces to amplify their brand presence across the entire state.

In a moving segment of Medical Monday, Dr. Jason Green of Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center details both the medical realities of Opioid Use Disorder and the personal loss of his brother to an overdose. He emphasizes that healthcare providers must reframe addiction as a complex medical condition, eliminating stigma so patients feel safe seeking immediate treatment. Effective recovery requires a long-term, two-pronged strategy pairing continuous pharmacological therapy to curb cravings with personalized psychosocial support. Ultimately, establishing strong continuity of care and capitalizing on a patient's "windows of opportunity" provides the necessary accountability and support to navigate relapses and sustain long-term recovery.

With 85 days until election day, political strategies are ramping up to address key open seats created by redistricting. RNC Co-Chair Casey Crosby outlines how data-driven resource allocation and strong financial backing are driving targeted field operations. The discussion highlights key initiatives, including active involvement in over 170 election integrity lawsuits nationwide and strong support for the SAVE America Act. To maintain momentum ahead of early voting in September, plans are underway for a major midterm convention in Dallas.

Rapid industrial expansion and technological integration require organizations to prioritize workforce upskilling to maintain a competitive market presence. Rather than replacing experienced staff, companies must invest in updating employee skill sets—focusing on AI literacy, digital proficiency, and adaptable leadership strategies. Integrating structured professional development allows businesses to modernize operations smoothly without losing valuable institutional knowledge. Establishing holistic development frameworks for both new hires and tenured staff ensures long-term operational resilience during major economic shifts.

4 Sisters Rice CEO Meryl Kennedy Farr discusses how modern technology is reshaping the agricultural industry. She explains how precision farming tools help local growers protect natural water resources while increasing crop efficiency. Furthermore, Farr highlights how shifting toward specialty grains like Jasmine and sushi rice protects farmers from price volatility. Ultimately, integrating smart tech from the fields to digital marketing ensures locally grown food reaches today's consumers.

Louisiana is undergoing a massive economic renaissance, surpassing $150 billion in new development projects across the state. This influx of capital creates high-paying jobs, successfully reversing years of outward migration to neighboring regions. To sustain this momentum, State Senator Rick Edmonds qualified for the 6th Congressional District race, pledging to secure federal resources for critical infrastructure projects like the I-12 expansion. His legislative experience positions him to advocate aggressively for Louisiana's funding priorities in Washington.

In a recent broadcast discussion, Monroe City Councilman Doug Harvey and third-generation farmer Dustin Morris addressed the evolving relationship between local government, technology, and agriculture. They highlighted how modern tech equipment dramatically increases farming efficiency while driving high-yield crop production for key regional markets. Addressing public concerns regarding incoming tech development and data centers, they presented data demonstrating that local water resources and domestic food supplies remain entirely secure. Ultimately, the conversation emphasized that balancing property rights with technological expansion creates a powerful net economic win for the entire region.

Louisiana’s aggressive economic strategy combines legislative reform with flexible energy solutions to attract massive private investments across the state. High-profile projects like Meta’s Richland Parish data center operate under Entergy’s "Fair Share Plus" framework, which protects local ratepayers while injecting billions into grid resilience and community support. Strategic additions across energy, tech, and manufacturing underscore Louisiana's ability to seamlessly execute complex infrastructure developments. By prioritizing creative, market-driven partnerships, state leaders are actively positioning the region as a primary driver for long-term growth and economic stability.

Addressing teacher shortages in Louisiana requires a shift toward accessible, community-centered training models. Louisiana Delta Community College’s innovative degreed apprenticeship allows aspiring educators to work in local classrooms while completing live virtual coursework. This earn-and-learn approach eliminates financial barriers and retains talent within rural and urban districts facing severe staffing gaps. Producing nearly 40% of the state's teaching associate degrees, the program offers a scalable blueprint for statewide teacher recruitment and retention.

Regional collaboration between Sterlington and West Monroe demonstrates how municipal partnerships accelerate local economic growth across North Louisiana. By pairing Sterlington’s outdoor baseball fields with West Monroe’s $24 million indoor sports complex, both cities capture significant sports tourism revenues. These shared economic benefits boost local tax bases and increase foot traffic for restaurants, shops, and hotels throughout Ouachita Parish. As land use and development opportunities evolve, continuous collaboration ensures the entire region remains competitive statewide.

Brian Haldane sits down with workforce housing developer Joey Trappey and healthcare leader Kandice Hunter Sanders at the Louisiana Municipal Association Conference to discuss what it takes to build future-ready communities. The conversation explores innovative workforce housing solutions, the healthcare challenges that come with rapid economic growth, the importance of recruiting medical professionals, and how broadband and telehealth are transforming patient care. Together, they explain why planning ahead for housing, healthcare, and infrastructure is critical as Louisiana welcomes major new industrial investments.

Regional leaders are uniting to align community college programs directly with local business needs and economic development. By balancing emerging industrial growth with core trade programs, institutions ensure long-term stability for regional workforces. Lightweight, stackable certifications allow students to enter high-demand fields quickly without accumulating massive student debt. This shift is actively changing how parents and students view career readiness, making technical education a primary driver of local success.

Louisiana higher education and workforce leaders are aligning academic programs with regional economic needs to keep top talent within the state. By engaging middle school students early, educators spark career interest before high school decisions take effect. Strategic 2+2 partnerships and updated funding formulas support both technical credentials and traditional four-year degrees seamlessly. These flexible learning options empower traditional students and adult learners alike, driving long-term economic growth across the region.

This discussion highlights the ongoing revitalization of downtown Monroe, Louisiana, through historic preservation and local hospitality. Representative Mike Eckles and Chef Cory Bahr explain how repurposing historic assets, such as Hotel Monroe, creates vibrant community gathering spaces. Chef Bahr emphasizes the importance of celebrating Northeast Louisiana’s rich agricultural heritage and delivering consistent, gracious service. Together, complementary local businesses and restored architecture drive economic growth and foster a strong sense of community identity.

Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis explains how regional collaboration is driving an economic expansion in Northeast Louisiana. Strategic planning positioned the city for Meta’s historic single-site investment, drawing national interest to the region. Furthermore, over 70 new development proposals could bring $30 billion in investment and 15,000 new jobs. To support this rapid growth, Monroe is expanding riverfront housing, hotel accommodations, and critical infrastructure.

Meta’s new data center project in Richland Parish is sparking an economic transformation across Northeast Louisiana. Because local leaders collaborated across municipal lines, the region successfully landed a major tech powerhouse. Local schools are gaining direct financial benefits, while Delta Community College is rapidly preparing residents for tech careers. Additionally, Meta's community relief during local crises shows a strong commitment to long-term regional growth.

At the Louisiana Municipal Association (LMA) annual conference, LMA Executive Director J. Richard Williams and LMA President Ray Bourque highlighted the vital role of local government in driving economic growth. The organization supports 306 municipalities across Louisiana by providing centralized resources, administrative training, and legislative advocacy. To further professionalize local leadership, the LMA spearheaded House Bill 431, establishing a mandatory 16-hour annual training mandate for mayors starting in 2027. By focusing on efficient municipal services, open communication, and modern infrastructure, local officials continue to create thriving, business-friendly communities across the state.

New Orleans continues to demonstrate its position as a top travel destination by following up major events like the X Games with unbeatable late-summer offerings. The city’s annual COOLinary initiative features curated pre-fixe menus across more than 140 restaurants, accompanied by a special promotion offering a $100 Visa digital gift card for multi-night hotel bookings on NewOrleans.com. Culture seekers can take advantage of New Orleans Museum Month, which grants free admission to over 30 institutions for local museum members, alongside a interactive passport competition. Between the return of Saints football at the Superdome and preparations to host the massive IPW travel trade show next year, New Orleans provides endless reasons for day-trippers and long-term guests to visit now.

Congresswoman Julia Letlow has kicked off a comprehensive 64-parish tour to address key community issues across Louisiana. Her early stops highlighted local solutions, including Jefferson Parish's groundbreaking public safety drone initiative. She also detailed short-term Workforce Pell Grants that help students rapidly enter high-paying trade careers. Finally, Letlow called for stronger federal fiscal responsibility and complete annual budgets over short-term funding fixes.

Louisiana has achieved historic academic growth, moving from 49th to 32nd nationally while leading the country in four-year educational improvement. State Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley attributes this success to a core focus on foundational literacy, math skills, and high classroom standards. Through the "Let Teachers Teach" initiative, the state has implemented cell phone bans, stricter discipline policies, and reduced paperwork to create orderly learning environments. These systemic changes have cut teacher vacancies in half and boosted teacher retention across Louisiana school districts.

Louisiana is weighing the massive economic promise of a proposed 130,000-acre SpaceX facility against potential environmental risks to its prized coastal wetlands. Concurrently, New Orleans city leaders are implementing severe fiscal measures—including hiring freezes and project delays—to address a major budget deficit. Calls are mounting for city officials to consolidate administrative departments and reform long-standing operational issues within the Sewerage and Water Board. These major economic and municipal shifts unfold just as political qualifying opens, setting the stage for significant political moves across the state.

New BREC Director Brooks Williams has officially assumed leadership, introducing a performance-based strategy to revamp Baton Rouge parks. Facing nearly $2 billion in deferred maintenance and new projects, the district is focusing on strict project prioritization and data-driven management. Key initiatives include partnering with local law enforcement to boost park safety and deploying new IT dashboards to track maintenance standards. Ultimately, leadership is shifting focus from managing vast land acreage to maximizing the quality and safety of active community spaces.

As qualifying week kicks off in Louisiana, state leaders and voters closely monitor key developments in the 5th and 6th Congressional Districts. The spotlight shines bright on the 6th District, where Rick Edmonds leverages strong community backing while speculation mounts over Blake Miguez entering the race. Candidates navigate unique challenges as previous endorsements do not carry over across redrawn district lines, putting a premium on grassroots connection and campaign resources. Outside the political arena, community leaders debate industrial proposals like potential SpaceX rocket launches, forcing a hard look at balancing local job creation with protecting coastal wetlands.

New leadership at the West Baton Rouge Chamber of Commerce is propelling regional growth by bridging small-business innovation with industrial expansion. Although traffic across the Mississippi River remains a daily factor, key infrastructure proposals like the LA-415 connector promise smoother regional connectivity. Local manufacturing plants are modernizing operations through innovative waste-reduction technologies to create new jobs and increase sustainability. Through community shopping events, expert-led AI business luncheons, and recreational gatherings, West Baton Rouge continues to elevate its unique quality of life.