A former LSU basketball player – now living in Ukraine – describes the situation there under a Russian invasion. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Senate confirmation hearings for U-S Supreme Court nominee Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson begin on March 21, inspiring a new generation of Black legal professionals. David Grubb has more…

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m David Grubb.” 

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After Mardi Gras ended with the shooting deaths of two visitors, Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says he will once again back legislation to have the state oversea the French Quarter. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Former LSU basketball player, and Ukraine native, Roman Rubchenko (pronounced: roob-CHENK-oh) shares his feelings on the Russian invasion; now in its second week. Rubchenko and some family and friends are currently safe in a rural community area several miles south of the capital city of Kiev. He says the resolve of the Ukraine people to resist the invaders is strong…:

Cut 4 (10)  “…something like that.”

Rubchenko played forward for the LSU Tigers from 1992 to 1996. He now runs businesses in Ukraine. Appearing via telephone on the “Talk Louisiana” radio program, he says his country will never let Kiev be taken by Russian ground troops, and the might of the Russian infantry is overrated…:

Cut 5 (09) “…reason to fight for.”

Rubchenko says Vladimir Putin has underestimated the pride and the resolve of the Ukraine people; many of whom have volunteered to take up arms against the invaders…:

Cut 6 (11)  “…to like it very much.”

Rubchenko says, if he were face-to-face with Putin, he would (quote) “grab him by the neck and I would choke him.”

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Senate confirmation hearings for U-S Supreme Court nominee, Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson will begin on March 21. If confirmed, Jackson would be the first Black female to be seated on the Supreme Court bench. That historic possibility has stirred emotions and inspired the next generation of the Black legal community. Southern University Student Bar Association President Nzhada (Nih-jay-da) Harris is among them.

Cut 7 (11) “…going to do so.”

Harris says that Judge Jackson would bring a strong combination of legal skill and experience, with two Harvard degrees, 10 years as a federal judge, and having clerked for Stephen Bryer, whom she’s been nominated to replace. And believes her experiences as a woman and as a person of color are going to add a much-needed perspective to the court; one more reflective of the nation as a whole.

Cut 8 (12)  “…level of inclusion.”

There will be challenges for Jackson in her confirmation. Research from the Law & Society Review has shown that when people of color and women have been nominated to the high court, they have faced greater skepticism and received less courtesy than their white male counterparts. Harris understands the battle ahead for Judge Jackson but remains hopeful.

Cut 9 (12)  “…excited for this.”

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Mardi Gras ended at midnight Tuesday in New Orleans as law enforcement walked down the streets of the French Quarter blaring sirens. Carnival season was tainted with the shooting deaths of two tourists this year. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser hopes legislation placing the state in charge of the worldwide tourist attraction will reduce crime.

Cut 10 (10) “…do something.”

The legislation would basically turn the French Quarter into a State Park, with park rangers acting as law enforcement. Nungesser says a plan was in place with the Mayor, that included adequate police patrol, surveillance, and improved lighting.

Cut  11 (10)  “…this year.”  

Nungesser says to make the Quarter safer everyone including city council members and the mayor has to get on board.

Cut 12 (12) “…time to shine.”

A 15-year old girl from Houston and a 33-year old man from South Carolina were killed in separate shootings during carnival in New Orleans.

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The Lake Providence Police Department is closed for business after Mayor Jerry Bell says Police Chief Leroy Threats exhausted his annual budget in mid-February. Bell says he along with the board of aldermen asked Threats to produce a plan of action for the budget shortfall….

Cut 13 (10) “…that plan.”

Bell says the department falls under the Lawrason Act, so if a department sees a five percent variance in revenues and/or expenses, then a plan of action must be submitted.

Threats reportedly says he doesn’t know how the department is out of money when he’s only been there a year and hasn’t spent technically anything. Bell says he’s not sure what Threats is thinking because he’s been in communication with him about the fiscal budget that runs from July to June for the last seven months.

Cut 14 (11)  “…and helping.”

Bell believes it’s a situation where Threats, who was elected in a special election last year, lacks administrative experience and the department’s largest expenditure is payroll. Threats did not respond to our request for comment.

In the meantime, Bell says as long as Threats remains chief, they have to wait on him to submit a plan. Bell says his communication with Threats has fallen on deaf ears and Threats has reportedly said he plans to retire.

Cut 15 (11)  “…of action.”

In the meantime, the East Carroll Sheriff’s Office will oversee patrols of Lake Providence.

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The Sun Belt Men’s Basketball Tournament gets underway in Pensacola, Florida today. The Cajuns are an 8-seed and will face 9th seeded UTA at 11:30 this morning. The Mavericks beat U-L Lafayette twice during the regular season including an overtime defeat at home. A game Coach Bob Marlin remembers well…

Cut 16 (15)  “…Pensacola.”

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It’s been a tough season for Keith Richard and the UL-Monroe WarHawks. They enter the Sun Belt Conference tournament as the 11^th seed and are in the midst of a five-game losing skid. Ten of UL-M’s 17 losses have come by single digits, so Richard would like to see a change of fortune with the WarHawks one loss from their season coming to an end.

Cut 17 (17) “ …been in them.” 

UL-Monroe will face the sixth-seeded Arkansas State Red Wolves in the opening round of the Sun Belt tournament at 5 pm. The WarHawks split the season series with Arkansas State with each team winning on the opponent’s home floor. ASU has both the Sun Belt player and defensive player of the year, center Norchad Omier (O-meer), but Richard likes the way his team matches up everywhere else.

Cut 18 (21) “ …in the backcourt.” 

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LSU women’s basketball fans were not pleased with the Southeastern Conference postseason awards announcements. The Tigers finished second in the SEC standings yet only two players, guards Khayla Pointer and Alexis Morris, were named to the All-Conference team. On the eve of the SEC tournament, Coach Kim Mulkey is focused on team achievements, not individual honors.

Cut 19 (18)_“…taken it” 

Mulkey missed out on the Coach of the Year award after leading LSU to the greatest single-season turnaround in conference history and one of the greatest in Division I history. Mulkey already has seven Big 12, two WBCA, three USBWA, and two Associated Press Coach of the Year awards, so she isn’t worried if the spotlight misses her this time, not with a chance at a much bigger prize.

Cut 20 (16) “ …accomplished a lot.” 

A lawmaker wants to change the state’s term-limit law, giving legislators the ability to serve four four-year terms, instead of three. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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As the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues, Senator Bill Cassidy says the US should add troops in the NATO countries of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland to deter Putin from invading them in the future.

Cut 4 (10) “…NATO country.”

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As the backlash against Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine continues, there have been calls for boycotts of Russian products, including vodka. Michael Fruge, founder and owner of Acadiana Parish-based JT Meleck Distillers, sees an opportunity to reach new customers and his distillery is looking to take advantage of a market that may be ready to move away from its traditional tastes and towards his rice-based vodka.

Cut 7 (09) “…one of them.”

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Louisiana’s Republican Congressional Delegation is disappointed with President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address. Senator John Kennedy says the President has mismanaged the economy, mismanaged COVID, and has forfeited America’s energy independence and Mr. Biden’s only plan is to stay the course

Cut 12 (08) “…doing it”

But Democrat and New Orleans Congressman Troy Carter says the President laid out a clear vision to lowering costs for American families.

Senator Bill Cassidy says sanctions imposed by the US and other countries are beginning to cripple Russia financially as they continue to invade Ukraine. Brooke Thorington has more…:

CUT 01(34)      “…Brooke Thorington.”

State Police say they – along with local LEO’s – seized 24 illegal guns and arrested 44 people during the five day “Mardi Gras Week” in New Orleans. Officials in the city proclaim 2022 Mardi Gras a success, despite the deaths of two tourists.

More reaction to Tuesday’s State of the Union speech from our people in Congress. Senator John Kennedy says the President offered no solution to the country’s wide-open southern border…:

CUT 13(11)      “…rage on.”

5th District Congresswoman Julia Letlow didn’t hear a good plan to counter the highest inflation rates in four decades…:

CUT 14(12)      “…excessive checks.”

But Democrat and New Orleans Congressman Troy Carter says the President laid out a clear vision to lowering costs for American families.

The Governor’s Mansion will light up in blue and gold – the colors of Ukraine – tonight, to show solidarity for the embattled country. Mr. and Mrs. Edwards ask we all pray for Ukraine and its people.

A lawmaker wants to change the state’s term-limit law, giving legislators the ability to serve four four-year terms, instead of three. Jeff Palermo has the story…:

CUT 02(31)      “…Jeff Palermo.”

Bossier Parish deputies arrest a Haughton man for alleged child sex crimes. 55-year-old Conrad Williams was taken into custody after an investigation found evidence he’d taken explicit photos of himself and shared them with minors on social media. His combined bond on all charges comes to nearly a million bucks.

As the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues, Senator Bill Cassidy says sanctions are beginning to cripple Russia financially and the U.S. should still not commit troops, via air, sea, or ground to assist because Ukraine is not an article five-country with NATO…:

CUT 03(10)      “…prepare for war.”

Cassidy feels the U.S. should send troops into countries neighboring Ukraine, in case Russia’s ambitions should spread.

Swearing off Russian vodka to show solidarity? Acadiana-based J.T. Meleck Distributors suggest you try their Louisiana-made rice vodka. Here’s Meleck’s CEO Mike Fruge…:

CUT 08(12)      “…at the distillery.”

J.T. Meleck is one of the few producers of rice vodka not based in Asia.

Louisiana’s Republican Congressional Delegation are disappointed with President Joe Biden’s State of the Union address. Senator John Kennedy says the President has mismanaged the economy, mismanaged Covid, and has forfeited America’s energy independence and Mr. Biden’s plan is to stay the course..:

CUT 12(08)      “…doing it.”

But Democrat District 2 Congressman Troy Carter feels the President laid out a clear plan of how he’ll lower costs for average Americans.

Meanwhile, on the Ukraine invasion by Russia, Senator Bill Cassidy says he and many others favor sanctions against Russia, and weapons support for Ukraine and others at risk…:

CUT 05(12)      “…like Poland.”

Cassidy applauds private companies for also taking steps to discourage Putin’s invasion.

A Lafayette state lawmaker wants to add four more years to term limits for he and his colleagues at the State Capitol. Republican House member Stuart Bishop says it takes years to learn “the ropes” of state government, and many are just getting savvy as their term limits come up…:

CUT 11(11)      “…this anymore.”

This is Bishop’s last term in office and he does not plan on running for a Senate seat, so this legislation would not benefit him personally.

State Police ask us to be on the lookout for Bailey Frederick, a 13-year-old New Iberia girl who MAY be in danger. Bailey was last seen Sunday morning; getting out of a late model gray Dodge or Chrysler sedan. Witnesses say she seemed to be scared. Call the Iberia sheriff’s office … 337-369-3711

A Mardi Gras-related surge? The department of health reports 1469 new COVID cases. 412 are in hospitals statewide. Another 71 virus-related deaths are also reported by LDH.

Senator Bill Cassidy says sanctions imposed by the US and other countries are beginning to cripple Russia financially as they continue to invade Ukraine. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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At least three states have implemented bans on Russian-made vodka. Louisiana vodka maker Michael Fruge sees an opportunity to reach new consumers and take advantage of a market that may be ready to move away from its traditional tastes and towards his rice-based vodka.

Cut 7 (09) “…one of them.”

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A Louisiana constitutional amendment went into effect in 2007 limiting legislators to three full-consecutive terms in one House, which is 12 years. Lafayette representative Stuart Bishop says that’s not enough time to know all of the inner workings of law-making. He says a business would not limit a person’s occupation to 12 years…

Cut 10 (10) “…fire you”

Bishop serves as House Ways and Means Chairman.

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In Alexandria, United Airlines will suspend service to AEX beginning in June. Executive Director of Alexandria International Sandra McQuain says the suspension is indefinite and next month American Airlines will halt service from Alexandria to Charlotte.

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It’s Ash Wednesday and thousands will get their ashes today. COVID has limited in-person church services but Associate Professor at LSU’s Department of Religious Studies Michael Pasquier says he expects to see parishioners take a more active role during the Lenten season this year…

Cut 15 (07) “…the state.”

As the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues, Senator Bill Cassidy says sanctions are beginning to cripple Russia financially and the U-S should still not commit troops to Ukraine, but he does support the US adding troops in the NATO countries of Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Poland to deter Putin from future invasions.

Cut 4 (10) “…NATO country.”

As the backlash against Putin continues there have been calls for boycotts of Russian products, including vodka. Michael Fruge, founder, and owner of Acadiana Parish-based JT Meleck Distillers, says consumers are typically loyal to the brands they like but a worldwide push can quickly gain momentum.

 Cut 6 (06) “…things definitely.” 

At least three states have already implemented bans on Russian-made vodka, and more could follow.

A lawmaker wants to change the state’s term-limit law, giving legislators the ability to serve four four-year terms, instead of three. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

The Lenten season is upon us, and Associate Professor at LSU’s Department of Religious Studies Michael Pasquier (Pass-quay) says Christians in Louisiana have been looking forward to attending in person services again.

Cut 15 (07)  “…the state.”

Easter is April 17^th.

As the Russian invasion of Ukraine continues, Senator Bill Cassidy says sanctions are beginning to cripple Russia financially and the U-S should still not commit troops, via air, sea, or ground to assist because Ukraine is not an article five-country with NATO.

Cut 3 (10) “…prepare for war.”

Countries like the Baltic States and Poland.

A state lawmaker wants to change the term limit law, giving legislators the ability to serve four terms in one House, instead of the current three. Lafayette Representative Stuart Bishop says too much experience is being lost, giving staff and lobbyists more institutional knowledge…

Cut 9 (11) “…the Legislature”

A new jobs report from UL-Lafayette indicates a slow rebound for post-pandemic employment in Louisiana. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

In Alexandria United Airlines will suspend service to AEX beginning in June. Executive Director of Alexandria International Sandra McQuain says the suspension is indefinite and next month American Airlines will halt service from Alexandria to Charlotte.

In his State of the Union, President Biden set out goals to help reduce inflation. Brooke Thorington has more on his plans from the Deputy Director of the National Economic Council.
Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

But Republican members of Louisiana’s Congressional delegation still say misguided policies by the Biden Administration have led to high gas prices. Senator Bill Cassidy says he’s working on an energy policy that will restore America’s energy independence while addressing rising global emissions.

It’s Ash Wednesday and thousands will get their ashes today. COVID has limited in-person church services but Associate Professor at LSU’s Department of Religious Studies Michael Pasquier says he expects to see parishioners take a more active role during the Lenten season this year…
cut 13 (11) “….Lenten season”

Thousands of Christians will abstain from meat today and Fridays during the Lenten season. Harlon Pearce, Chairman of the Gulf Seafood Institute, says there is no shortage of seafood options, especially if you enjoy crawfish…
Cut 10 (13) “…really quickly here.”
Pearce says the supply of oysters remains low as a result of damage to oyster beds from Hurricane Ida.

Many have criticized the Biden Administration saying their clean energy policies have limited gas and oil production thus causing inflation at the gas pump. In an exclusive interview with Louisiana Radio Network, Bharat Ramamurti (Rom-ah-more-tee) Deputy Director of the National Economic Council says the president is all for the U-S producing more oil and gas …

Cut 9 (12)  “…is incorrect.”

A new report from U.L.-Lafayette indicates recovery of Louisiana jobs from the pandemic will be a slow process. ULL economics professor Gary Wagner says record-high inflation is adversely affecting employers’ ability to fill needed jobs, and he doesn’t see that changing anytime soon…:

Cut 6 (11)  “…recover all those jobs.”

The Lake Providence Police Department is closed for business, Police Chief Leroy Threats says he received a call from Mayor Jerry Bell that there’s no funding for the department. Mayor Bell says the department overspent and while Chief Threats says otherwise. The East Carroll Parish Sheriff’s Department will respond to calls in the meantime.

Now that Fat Tuesday has come and gone, it’s time to get ready for Fish Fridays. David Grubb has more…

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m David Grubb.”