Patrick "Patty G" Gremillion joins the show to discuss Plan Baton Rouge 3 and shares his top three ideas for the initiative. He emphasizes innovative strategies to enhance the city's development, focusing on sustainable urban planning, community engagement, and economic growth. Gremillion's insights aim to drive positive change and improve the quality of life for Baton Rouge residents, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving these goals.

Senator Bill Cassidy joined the show to discuss various topics, starting with President Trump's first 100 days in office. Cassidy highlighted the administration's efforts to control illegal immigration and reduce fentanyl flow across the US-Mexico border. He noted that illegal immigration is at its lowest level in decades, and the Mexican army is actively disrupting fentanyl cartels. Cassidy emphasized the significant reduction in fentanyl overdoses in Baton Rouge, attributing it to the administration's policies. Cassidy also discussed the economic impact of recent projects, such as the $5.7 billion Hyundai Steel plant in Ascension Parish and a $17 billion LNG export project in Southwest Louisiana.

He stressed the importance of creating better-paying jobs and reducing regulatory hurdles to attract investments. Cassidy argued that the administration's approach to tariffs aims to level the playing field by encouraging other countries to lower their tariffs, which could lead to more jobs and better wages in the US. Addressing concerns about the immediate economic impact on individuals, Cassidy acknowledged the challenges of rising prices and emphasized ongoing efforts to lower flood insurance premiums in South Louisiana. He highlighted the bipartisan infrastructure bill's role in reducing flood risks and improving the state's living conditions. Cassidy also introduced the National Fentanyl Awareness Day resolution and the Halt Fentanyl Act.

The latter aims to classify substances that mimic fentanyl as fentanyl for law enforcement purposes, providing prosecutors with more tools to combat fentanyl distribution. Cassidy stressed the importance of continued awareness and vigilance against fentanyl, despite the recent decline in overdose deaths. Throughout the conversation, Cassidy underscored the administration's commitment to creating jobs, improving economic conditions, and addressing critical issues like immigration and drug trafficking.

Myrtha Irwin appears on the show to discuss the "Urgent Care Starts with You" campaign. She highlights Lake Urgent Care's commitment to leading with empathy and sympathy, emphasizing their dedication to patient-centered care. The campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of compassionate care in urgent medical situations, reinforcing Lake Urgent Care's reputation for prioritizing the emotional and physical well-being of their patients.

Former Ambassador of the Holy See, Francis Rooney, appears on the show to discuss the legacy of Pope Francis. He delves into the significant impact Pope Francis has had on the church and the world. Additionally, Rooney addresses the church's crucial responsibility in selecting a new pope, emphasizing the importance of this decision for the future direction of the Catholic Church.

District Attorney Hillar Moore recently discussed the ongoing fight against fentanyl during a Rotary Club meeting. He highlighted the alarming increase in fentanyl overdose deaths over the past decade, which had doubled the homicide rates. However, recent trends show a significant decline, with a 75% reduction from the peak and a 25% decrease this year compared to last year. Moore attributed the initial surge in fentanyl deaths to the market being flooded with the drug, often laced into other substances like pills without users' knowledge. He emphasized that the precursor materials for fentanyl come primarily from China and Russia, which are then sent to Mexico for production. This has created a uniquely American problem, as the U.S. is the primary target for these lethal drugs.

The decline in fentanyl-related deaths can be credited to several factors. Law enforcement efforts, including numerous busts and undercover operations, have played a crucial role. The availability of Narcan, a life-saving drug that reverses opioid overdoses, has also been instrumental. Moore mentioned that while Narcan provides immediate reversal of overdoses, the fear of jail is not a significant motivator for addicts. Instead, programs like "When You Are Ready" aim to help individuals when they are prepared to seek treatment. Moore also discussed the financial aspect of drug enforcement. Seized money from drug busts is allocated to various entities, with the Sheriff's Office receiving 60% and the District Attorney's office receiving 12%. This financial impact on drug dealers is seen as a critical component of the fight against fentanyl. The presentation included visuals of drug busts, highlighting the dangerous nature of the drug trade, which often involves firearms and large amounts of cash. Moore stressed the importance of prosecuting drug dealers while providing help to users, aiming to reduce the overall impact of fentanyl in the community.

Dr. Sean Owens joins the show to discuss SB2, a legislative bill focused on the de-fluoridation of water in Louisiana. The conversation highlights the potential health impacts, the scientific rationale behind the bill, and the public's response. Dr. Owens provides insights into the benefits and drawbacks of removing fluoride from the water supply, aiming to inform and engage the audience on this important public health issue.

Lieutenant Don Coppola from Capital Region Crimestoppers joins the show to discuss the effectiveness of anonymous tips that could lead to the arrest and prosecution of wanted criminals. Coppola also shares about the 2nd annual pickle-ball tournament fundraiser to support the Capital Region Crime Stoppers at The Legacy at Bonne Esperance the weekend of May 3rd and 4th. If you have any information and would like to leave an anonymous tip, call 344-7867.

For more, visit: crimestoppers225.com and facebook.com/CS225

Jason DeCuir from Advantus Consulting joins the show to clarify the focus of what was supposed to be a fiscal session. Despite expectations, the session has been dominated by discussions on insurance, SNAP cards, soft drinks, and other non-fiscal issues. DeCuir emphasized that insurance has taken center stage, overshadowing tax-related matters. He noted that two state leaders have differing opinions on resolving insurance issues and lowering rates.DeCuir explained that although the session is primarily about taxes, insurance has consumed much of the legislative attention. He mentioned that a significant 115-page bill was reduced to five pages, simplifying the legislative process.

The session also addressed the failure of CA-2 on the ballot earlier in the year. Representative Emerson restructured CA-2 into five separate bills, focusing on the Revenue Stabilization Fund and the Budget Stabilization Fund, among other issues.DeCuir highlighted that the state must maintain a balanced budget, which cannot rely on potential future amendments. The Revenue Estimating Conference (REC) plays a crucial role in forecasting and adjusting the budget based on actual revenue. The REC meets quarterly to ensure the budget aligns with revenue projections, making mid-year adjustments if necessary.

Additionally, DeCuir discussed the impact of sales tax and federal dollars on the state's budget. He explained that sales tax is preferred due to its monthly collection, providing more immediate revenue insights compared to annual income tax. However, sales tax predictions can be challenging due to economic fluctuations and external factors like tariffs.DeCuir also mentioned a bill by Representative Chance Henry aimed at reducing the insurance premium tax to attract more insurance companies to Louisiana. This reduction could lower insurance premiums for residents. The bill, House Bill 594, is seen as a positive step towards tax reform and reducing insurance costs in the state.

Haggai Davis joins the show for a Cup of Tech Gumbo to discuss Mark Zuckerberg's comments on the changing landscape of social media, highlighting how it differs from the past. He also delves into the Federal Trade Commission's lawsuit against META platforms, examining the implications for the tech giant. Additionally, Davis explores the energy consumption required for Alexa to respond, shedding light on the environmental impact of smart devices.

Scotty Drake, host of the "Motorcycle Watch" podcast, joins the show to discuss Motorcycle Awareness Month and the associated campaign. The campaign, led by the Motorcycle Awareness Campaign (MAC), aims to enhance motorcycle safety and awareness. Scotty, along with MAC President Bob Courtney, highlights the importance of motorcycle safety, upcoming events, and initiatives to reduce motorcycle crashes and save lives. 

For more information, visit: https://www.macorg.com/