The Louisiana National Guard says they’ve rescued over 42-hundred citizens and 350 pets as they assist in flood fighting efforts in 33 parishes. Guard spokesperson Colonel Pete Schneider says this is the biggest response to a flooding event the Guard has ever seen in Louisiana. He says their machinery has been a vital resource…:
cut 10 (11) “in the past”
7 parishes in north Louisiana have been declared federal disaster areas by the president.

The 2016 regular Louisiana legislative session is underway. There are over 1200 bills filed that lawmakers will debate over the next three and a half months, but they can’t deal with taxes. Lawmakers are still facing an $800 million dollar budget deficit for next fiscal year, and many believe another special session will follow the regular session. Governor John Bel Edwards is addressing legislators in a joint session at 1pm.

The co-owner and chef of the very popular New Orleans restaurant Mother’s, Jerry Amato, has passed away at the age of 65 from complications due to cancer. Amato was named the Louisiana Restaurant Association’s Restaurateur of the Year in 2003. Association president Stan Harris says Mother’s is one of the most iconic restaurants in Louisiana…:
CUT 7 (08) “their food”
Amato and his brother are credited with turning Mother’s into one of the best known dining destinations in New Orleans.

The state Department of Transportation says I-59 and I-10 in South Louisiana and Mississippi may close today due to flooding. Motorists can get information on all state road closures at 511la.org.