Livingston Parish has produced the state’s first American Idol winner with Laine Hardy taking the top honors in the season 17 finale last night on ABC. The eighteen-year old’s mother, Cindy Hardy says in the hours since being crowned champion, his music is shooting up the charts.
Cut 3 (09) “…rock charts on iTunes.”
This season marks Hardy’s second run on the TV show.
The House Appropriations committee approves legislation that would raise the legal age to smoke from 18 to 21 years old. West Monroe Representative Frank Hoffman says the measure will reduce health care costs for the state
An amendment has been added to the bill that exempts military personnel, law enforcement and first responders. It also grandfathers existing 18-year-olds.
Louisiana was slammed with another round of twisters yesterday that’s knocked out power to hundreds in Acadiana, damaged over 50 homes and businesses, and left three people with minor injuries. Nation Weather Service Lake Charles Meteorologist in Charge Andy Patrick says the most severe damage occurred in Ville Platte, where the twister cut right through the middle of town…
For the second year, Louisiana state parks will be partnering with the Workforce Commission to hire people with disabilities and special needs to fill jobs for the summer season. Assistant Secretary for the Office of State Parks Brandon Burris says the program was popular last year.
Cut 12 (05) “…with disabilities.”
Many of those that were hired for the summer ended up staying on beyond the tourist season.