Officials say at least seven homes have been damaged in Livingston Parish, as a result of a severe storm with tornadoes ripping through the south. Mark Harrell, director of the Livingston Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, says the police chief in Killian witnessed two twisters with his own eyes…:
Cut 8 (09) “he watched them”
Another tornado touched down in New Orleans East causing widespread damage. Entergy reports nearly 15,000 people are without power right now as a result of the storms, the bulk of those being in Orleans Parish. Mayor Mitch Landrieu…:
CUT 25 (08) “a lot of room”
There were also tornadoes reported in Donaldsonville and Ponchatoula. The Red Cross has moved in to help affected communities.

Lawmakers are weighing in with their thoughts on the governor’s budget proposal to close the mid-year gap. The special session to address the $304 million dollar shortfall takes place next week. The governor wants to use $119 million dollars from the Rainy Day Fund, and Metairie Senator Danny Martiny says he’s not opposed to that if it prevents cuts that will really hit home with residents…:
Cut 5 (08) “can do that”
The House will begin discussions on what cuts will be made beginning Monday, and then they’ll send their plan to the Senate.

The Louisiana Department of Education will host a public meeting tonight in Shreveport to discuss recommendations for the Caddo Parish School Board to improve long-struggling schools in the city. State Superintendent John White encourages the public to attend…:
cut 12 (09) “communities first”
The meeting takes place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Peaceful Rest Missionary Baptist Church in Shreveport.