The state’s budget problems were a popular topic on Governor John Bel Edwards first monthly radio call-in show. Jeff Palermo has the story…:
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Two Louisiana companies that serve the oil and gas industry have issued notices to employees about potential layoffs. Carbo Ceramics told 61 employees that its New Iberia plant would be closing by June 17th due to market conditions. As many as 227 employees of Gulf Island LLC in Houma could lose their jobs if the company doesn’t win bids on upcoming projects, according to the LWC.

The state Senate unanimously approves a bill that would make sure every TOPS recipient would receive at least part of their award if the state funding for the program is cut next year. New Orleans Senator Karen Peterson says right now, the chance of TOPS being fully funded this year is nil…:
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The measure now heads to the House for consideration.

The 30th annual Festival International de Louisiane begins today and runs through Sunday in downtown Lafayette. The Acadiana celebration is a music and arts festival which celebrates the French heritage of the region. Festival spokeswoman April Courville says over 400-thousand people are expected to attend…:
cut 4 (07) “great energy”
Courville says local performers and international artists from 25 different countries are performing over the five days.