Governor John Bel Edwards unveiled the plan to balance this year’s budget, and fill the $70 million dollar hole that must be done by June 30th. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (27) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The state may have to give up control of its museums because of budget concerns in Louisiana. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Crawfish-lovers can expect to find a good batch of mudbugs this Easter weekend. That’s according to David Savoy, president of the Louisiana Crawfish Farmers Association, who says they should be able to meet the demand

Cut 3 (03) “right time”

Savoy says as the weather has warmed up, the crawfish have gotten bigger in the last few weeks, but consumers will not get break on prices. He says it doesn’t make sense to him that the cost to harvest crawfish is down from a year ago, but consumers are still paying the same prices as they did in 2015…

cut 4  (10)  “the same”

Savoy says the untold story of this crawfish season is that the farmers are not making as much money for their catch as they did last year. He says someone has to be making money, because customers haven’t seen a break for what they are paying…

Cut 5  (11)  “gone down”

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Governor John Bel Edwards unveiled the plan to balance this year’s budget, and said the $70 million dollar hole will be filled within the state Department of Health and Hospitals. Edwards said he could not in good conscious make any more reductions to higher ed…:

Cut 6 (12)  “in the country” 

Lawmakers did not fully fill the deficit in the special session, so it was left to the Edwards’ Administration to pull the state out of the red before June 30th. Edwards says $40 million dollars in the cuts to DHH are from less than expected Medicaid spending…:

CUT 7 (11)  “to our people”

Edwards says the other $30 million dollars will be cut to the private-public partnership hospitals.  He says DHH was better positioned to absorb these cuts, but it still wasn’t an easy thing to do…:

Cut 8  (09)  “for our citizens”

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Louisiana may have to relinquish control of state museums over to local agencies due to money concerns. Secretary of State Tom Schedler says his budget has taken a massive hit amid the fiscal crisis in the state.

Cut 9 (05)  “proposed scenario”

Schedler says he usually spends about $3.5 million on museums, but he only has $1.5 million allotted for this year, which he says is only enough to run the Old State Capitol. Schedler says he has already turned over four museums back to local governments. He says tough decisions are coming regarding the rest.

Cut 10 (08) “close some”

Schedler says budget concerns like this have been an issue for several years. He says in the past, the legislature always found more money, but he doesn’t think that will be the case this time. He says he hopes they are able to keep all of the museums in the state open.

cut 11 (07) “local community”

 _________________________________________________________

Louisiana Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain is urging those affected by the recent flooding to take precautions to prevent termites during clean-up and remodeling. Strain says when you have flooding you can have a breakdown of a termite barrier. He says a little water damage can also cause an initial onset of terminates.

cut 12 (10) “barrier out”

Strain says infected wood must be burned on site or moved to an approved landfill. He says also beware of spreading termites when moving wood.

Cut 13 (08)  “your home”

Strain says in the first few weeks after flooding there may be a decrease in termites but once the water is gone termites that remain tend to come back more prevalent than before.

Cut 14 (07)  “to infest” 

Three people were killed and three more were seriously injured in a fire in Winnsboro during the overnight hours. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (31)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Alto Congressman Ralph Abraham is visiting Cuba next month to establish potential agriculture trade with the island…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Three people were killed in a tragic fire during the overnight hours in Winnsboro, a father and two sons. A mother, a daughter, and another son were also seriously injured. Brant Thompson, with the State Fire Marshal’s Office, says when the firefighters arrived, they found the singlewide trailer fully engulfed in flames.

CUT 3 (10)  “8-year-old-child”

Derrick Boley, his 3-year-old son Kenderrick Boley, and 8-year-old Bryson Scobbee were killed in the fire. Thompson says the investigation will continue throughout the day as fire investigators systematically examine debris from the home.

CUT 4 (09)  “at this time”

Thompson says 29-year-old Victoria Guthrie, a 6-year-old, and a 19-month-old child were transported to an area hospital, where they are being treated for injuries.

CUT 5 (09)  “at this time”

Thompson says their thoughts and prayers go out to the survivors and their family.

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Alto Congressman Ralph Abraham is traveling to Cuba in April to ensure Louisiana becomes a trading partner with the country, once Congress lifts the trade embargo. Abraham says he’ll speak with Cuban officials to determine potential delivery and distribution. He says currently, the island receives imports from Asian countries, but the Port of New Orleans is only 36 hours away so a partnership makes sense.

CUT 6 (06) “right there”

Abraham says we’re on the tip of the spear to be the first state to get our goods to Cuba in a big way. He says Cuba imports about 80 to 90 percent of their agricultural products.

CUT 7 (10) “Louisiana”

Abraham expects the trade embargo with the island to be lifted by 2017. But he understands Cuba still has some significant human rights issues to fix…

CUT 8 (11) “those changes”

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Matthew Flugence of Marrero has entered a guilty plea in the death of a 6-year-old girl who was killed then stuffed into a trashcan in 2013. Flugence was sentenced to life in prison after pleading guilty to first-degree murder. Jefferson Parish District Attorney Paul Connick Jr. will not pursue the death penalty. Legal analyst Tim Meche says money may be a factor in the DA’s decision.

CUT 9 (12) “pleasant experience”

Meche says in Louisiana there is no chance of getting out of a life sentence, like there may be in other states.

cut 10 (05)  “in Angola”

Meche says the process of prosecuting a death penalty case takes time. He says the family needs closure, and this decision gives it to them.

Cut 11 (08) “in America”

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The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness says so far over 12-thousand homes have received flood damage and 26 parishes are available for federal assistance. GOHSEP spokesperson Mike Steele recovery efforts are still underway and more severe weather is possible Easter Sunday.

cut 12 (09) “cause problems”

Steele advises people to document and take pictures of damage to their homes sooner than later.

Cut 13 (09)  “assessment teams”

Steele says begin your cleanup if possible but you still must register your damage with FEMA, even if you’re in a parish that hasn’t yet been declared as part of the emergency process. He says registering lets GOHSEP get a better picture of the state’s total damage.

cut 14 (08)  “3362″

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An LSU survey finds Louisiana residents have mixed feelings about public schools in the state. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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Elmer’s Chocolate, the Ponchatoula-based candy manufacturer, is enjoying another successful Easter. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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International Paper has made a $500-thousand donation to the Red Cross for flood relief. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A bill to allow blaze pink to be worn while hunting in addition to hunter’s orange has been passed by the Natural Resources Committee. Author of the legislation, Bogalusa Rep. Malinda White, says Wisconsin already passed this law and it’s been successful. Cole Garrett with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries says they don’t have any issues with adding blaze pink.

cut 4  (09)  “high vis”

White says the pink color can be worn by both men and women. She hopes with the addition of pink more women across Louisiana will get outside and hunt to see what our great state has to offer.

Cut 5  (08)  “paradise”

Oil City Rep. Jim Morris was also in full support of the legislation.

Cut 6 (06)  “favorable” _________________________________________________________

An LSU survey finds Louisiana residents are becoming more skeptical of Common Core. Dr. Michael Henderson, director of LSU’s public policy lab, says support for the academic standards in English and Math fell from 39-percent to 34-percent over the past year. Henderson says this is likely due to political tension surrounding the issue.

CUT 7 (08)  “in their minds”

The survey also asked about standardized tests and Henderson says nearly half of the respondents say there is too much emphasis on testing in public schools.

Cut 8  (09)  “like half “

Forty-six percent of Louisiana residents think there’s too much testing, compared to 64-percent of the nation as a whole. Henderson says he was also surprised to see the public’s concerns about Louisiana public schools differ from the concerns of legislators.

Cut 9 (12)  “currently reflecting”

Henderson says the biggest education topics among lawmakers are charter schools, vouchers, and how to use standardized tests to evaluate teachers, as well as policy concerns from the Jindal administration.

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Ponchatoula-based Elmer’s Chocolate says they’ve had another successful year producing the popular Gold Brick Eggs and Heavenly Hash Easter candies. Elmer’s CEO Rob Nelson says the company produces about 12 million Gold Brick Eggs each year. He says in the past, production continued all the way through Good Friday, but fortunately technology allows them to produce more ahead of time now.

Cut 10 (09) “good thing”

Nelson says Elmer’s Easter candies are wildly popular throughout the Gulf South. He says that is probably because an abundance of people here practice Easter and keep family traditions.

cut 11 (06) “to generation”

Nelson says their Heavenly Hash and Gold Brick Eggs are the best sellers. He says Emler’s is getting ready for a big company expansion, but that will not affect their Easter candy.

cut 12 (08) “our hands”_________________________________________________________

International Paper has donated $500-thousand to the Red Cross in response to the recent flooding in Louisiana. Red Cross spokesperson Nancy Malone says they are incredibly grateful for the company’s generosity. She says the Red Cross is continuing to work with families in need as they move into recovery.

Cut 13 (10)  “relief items”

Malone says their health services workers are helping people with lost medications, eyeglasses, medical equipment and minor first aid needs. She says the estimated damage is between four and seven million dollars, but it could easily surpass that.

Cut 14 (10)  “do it” 

International Paper has 9 facilities in Louisiana, employing 2-thousand people throughout the state. Malone says other companies, including Entergy, have also stepped up to donate. She asks that people who are in a position to help to consider making a donation.

Cut 15 (09) “with them”

The paper company also donated more than 50-thousand boxed to local food banks and churches to help with distribution of relief items, like comfort kits and cleaning supplies.

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The 13th ranked LSU baseball team begins a three-game series tonight against second ranked Texas A&M. The Aggies are 19-and-2 and they have the highest team batting average in the SEC. Coach Paul Mainieri is eager to see how his club performs

Cut 16  (13)  “our team”

Junior left-hander Jared Poche will get the start on the hill for the Tigers. Poche knows the Aggies have the potential to score a bunch of runs…

Cut 17 (14) “to it”

The Aggies have won 18 straight games at home. Mainieri says Blue Bell Park is a terrific venue for college baseball…

Cut 18 (19) “play hard”

Burl Cain, the former warden at Angola, spoke at a press conference today about the investigation that eventually disproved the allegations he was a corrupt warden. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Legislation that seeks to put an end to the LHSAA’s split playoff format won approval from the House Education Committee. Jeff Palermo has the story….

CUT 2 (3)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Residents of Donaldsonville have been advised not to drink the water until further notice, because the Peoples Water System has been treating its drinking water with elevated levels of chlorine dioxide. State health officer Dr. Jimmy Guidry says they will conduct an on-site inspection of the system, including testing the water.

CUT 3 (09)  “take samples”

Chlorine dioxide was found in the water treatment system at levels four to five times the EPA standard for the chemical. Guidry says this chemical is an EPA-approved water treatment disinfectant.

CUT 4 (12)  “impact health”

Guidry says they have notified the water company that it must immediately change how it treats its water. He says the health risks are minimal for most people, but it could be dangerous for pregnant women and children.

CUT 5 (09)  “I’m pregnant”

Exposure to chlorine dioxide can cause serious health effects to the nervous systems of infants, young children and to the fetuses of pregnant women. The water system serves about 10-thousand customers. The “do not drink” alert will remain in effect until further notice.

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A proposed bill to prohibit school boards from requiring uniforms does NOT get out of the House Education Committee. Author of the legislation, Hammond Representative Chris Broadwater, filed the bill after working with a group for fourth graders, who came up with the idea to get rid of uniforms. New Orleans Representative Joe Bouie opposed the legislation…

CUT 6 (10) “have it”

Houma Rep. Beryl Amadee says she supports uniforms in public schools because she remembers a time where kids would get beat up at school for wearing name brand tennis shoes or expensive clothing.

CUT 7 (09) “uniforms”

Gonzales Rep. Ed Price was a member of the Ascension Parish School Board when they were the first parish to switch to uniforms. He says students do better in school when they wear uniforms.

CUT 8 (09) “than anything”

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Saints coach Sean Payton today told reporters that the franchise wants him to stick around 5 more years, and that he couldn’t see himself anywhere else. The Saints say Payton agreed to the extension. Payton said at the owners meeting this morning that the proposal means a lot…:

CUT 9 (10) “another 5 years”

Payton came to New Orleans in 2006 and coached the team to it’s first NFC Championship that year. He went on to bring the Saints their first Super Bowl appearance and victory in the 2009 – 2010 season. Payton says it feels good to know he’s working for an organization that is confident about the future…:

cut 10 (07)  “through 2020″

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Former Angola Warden Burl Cain spoke briefly this morning about the investigation into allegations that he was a corrupt prison leader during his 20 year tenure. The investigation eventually cleared him, as the Inspector General said there was no evidence to support these accusations. Cain says these false claims ruined his life.

Cut 11 (10) “and so forth”

Cain stepped down January first. He says he does not feel any animosity towards Governor John Bel Edwards, who asked him to step down, because Edwards was just doing his job. He says so far he is enjoying retirement, and he’s just ready for all this to be over.

cut 12 (06) “in corrections”

Cain condemned investigative reporters for not checking the facts, because he says their sources could have been inmates who had axes to grind with him. He says he is pleased with his accomplishments at Angola, and hopes the investigation doesn’t tarnish his legacy.

Cut 13 (09)  “Catholic church”

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Legislation seeking to end the public-versus-private school split impacting the LHSAA scored a victory in the House education committee. The panel approved the measure after hearing from two highly successful coaches at select schools. John Curtis Head Football Coach JT Curtis called on the legislature to help bring the association back together

cut 14 (08)  “right page”

Three years ago, member principals of the LHSAA voted to split the playoffs in football and the split will be expanded to other sports next school year. Metairie Park Country Day boys basketball coach Mike McGuire says the split will double the number of state champions in basketball and that’s a bad thing…

cut 15 (08) ” apart” 

The measure now heads to the House floor. There were several members of the committee who opposed the bill. Gonzales Representative Ed Price says the LHSAA is a private organization and should handle its own business like any other group not owned by the state…

cut 16 (11) “his team”

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A bill to be reviewed by the House Natural Resources Committee today proposes to add “blaze pink” as another option to the hunter orange requirement. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A bill will be heard today in the House Education Committee to prohibit public school boards from requiring students to wear uniforms. Emelie Gunn has more on the origin of the bill…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A multi-agency investigation finds that former Louisiana State Penitentiary Warden Burl Cain did not  participate in any illegal activity. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A proposed bill seeks to add “blaze pink” as an alternative for the hunter orange requirements. Bogalusa Representative Malinda White says the House Natural Resources Committee is expected to hear this proposed legislation today. She says this would give female hunters more options, without detracting from the safety aspect.

cut 4  (09)  “are hunters”

White says the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is in support of the blaize pink proposal and other states have passed similar bills. She hopes this measure would inspire more girls to participate in outdoor activities.

Cut 5  (07)  “the outdoors”

White says this bill demonstrates that women can participate in the Sportsman’s Paradise as well.

Cut 6 (06)  “in Louisiana” _________________________________________________________

A bill to be heard in front of the House Education Committee today would prohibit public school boards from requiring school uniforms. Author of the legislation, Hammond Rep. Chris Broadwater, says this came after he conducted a project with Hammond fourth graders to come up with different bills. He says he invited the children to the capitol to vote on their proposed legislation.

CUT 7 (11)  “fourth graders”

Broadwater says he made a commitment to the students that whatever bill idea turned out to be the best, he would file in the regular legislative session. He says the students argued that some students may not be able to afford more than one school uniform.

Cut 8  (10)  “Friday “

Broadwater says although the students made a good point, maybe banning school uniforms isn’t the right way to keep kids in school. He says this topic is getting a lot of positive and negative attention.

Cut 9 (09)  “concept”

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Every year animal shelters see an influx of bunnies after Easter, because parents bought rabbits for their children, but were unprepared to care for them. Alicia Haefele (HAY-flee), with the Louisiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, says parents might be putting too many eggs in their basket by getting these bunnies.

Cut 10 (09) “a bunny”

Haefele says rabbits require as much care as a dog or cat, plus they like to chew electrical chords, rugs and even furniture. She says many of these Easter bunnies end up in rabbit rescue facilities after the holiday.

cut 11 (07) “after Easter”

Haefele advises people to get plush or chocolate bunnies instead. She says if parents are set on getting a rabbit, they should do their homework first.

cut 12 (08) “a rabbit”_________________________________________________________

North Louisiana is still hurting from the massive downpour that dumped upwards of two feet of rain in some areas. West Monroe Senator Mike Walsworth is concerned how parish governments will pay for the damage, even if they are eligible for federal assistance and only have to pay a quarter of the cost for a road that was washed away by the floods….

Cut 13 (07)  “25-percent”

Walsworth is also concerned about the agriculture industry. He says hundreds of acres of crops are still underwater.

Cut 14 (08)  “crops back” 

Walsworth says many business owners are seeking assistance. But he says the Small Business Administration’s “low-interest loans” do not seem to offer such low rates for all businesses.

Cut 15 (12) “bad credit”

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All 32 NFL teams were in attendance for Louisiana Tech’s Pro Day. A lot of attention was paid to defensive tackle Vernon Butler, who could be selected in the first round. Draft analyst Mike Detillier says NFL general mangers and coaches like that Butler is more than just a pass-rush specialist

Cut 16  (18)  “everybody’s eye”

Detillier says a lot of NFL teams are also interested in running back Kenneth Dixon. He says it’s because of his ability to catch passes out of the backfield…

Cut 17 (20) “round three”

Detillier says because of quarterback Jeff Driskel’s successful one season in Ruston, he’ll likely be a late round draft pick…

Cut 18 (11) “for Tech”

The LSU Vet School is hosting seminars to teach first responders how to perform CPR on animals. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Two Louisiana cities came in the top 10 fattest metro areas in the country, according to a new study from WalletHub. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine wants emergency personnel to learn animal CPR. Professor Dr. Kirk Ryan says they’re hosting multiple events to train first responders because often times they come across animals in need of assistance. He says cats and dogs usually can’t receive the same method of CPR as humans.

CUT 3 (10)  “compressions”

Ryan says dogs are susceptible to smoke inhalation, so in the event of a house fire it’s important EMS or firefighters know how to help an animal.  He says giving CPR to pets is a little different than humans…

CUT 4 (10)  “CPR”

Ryan says previously, in different veterinary schools there were different methods of animal CPR. He says they want to hold these seminars to standardize a method and get all emergency personnel on the same page.

CUT 5 (10)  “not helpful”

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Shreveport and New Orleans rank in the top 10 fattest metro areas in the country, according to a new study from WalletHub. Shreveport ranked second and New Orleans came in at number five. WalletHub analyst Jill Gonzales says the study analyzed fat prevalence, weight-related medical problems, and a healthy environment. Gonzales says health problems caused by obesity can lead to financial problems later.

CUT 6 (12) “obesity treatment”

Gonzales says Americans spends 316-billion dollars a year on obesity-related medical treatment. She says Louisianans unhealthy lifestyles contribute to the high obesity numbers.

CUT 7 (09) “physically inactive”

Lafayette also ranked high on the list, coming in at number 17. Gonzales says the study looked at obesity in children and teens as well, and she says Louisiana did not perform well in that category either.

CUT 8 (08) “very closely”

The fattest metro area is Memphis, Tennessee, and the thinnest is Honolulu, Hawaii.

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The president isn’t the only one making a trip to Cuba this week as LSU coach Les Miles is also in the Pearl of the Antilles. Former Tiger baseball star Mikie Mahtook, who currently plays for Tampa Bay, tweeted that The Mad Hatter would be on hand to watch the Rays play the Cuban National Team. LSU Sports Information Director Michael Bonnette says this is Miles’ spring break trip…:

CUT 9 (08) “to Cuba”

Bonnette says Miles wanted to take advantage of the time off to experience such a unique culture, and make several rounds while he’s there…:

cut 10 (08)  “with him”

President Obama is also expected to attend the game during this groundbreaking trip. Bonnette says Miles will meet with the media next week and share his experience…:

Cut 11 (04) “stay tuned”

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State Police rescue two abducted North Carolina teens that were traveling with their uncle on Interstate 10. Sgt. Nick Manale says authorities in Winston-Salem called LSP to report 40-year-old Jose Melchor was likely traveling west through New Orleans, possibly on his way to Mexico. He says both the 15-year-old boy and 13-year-old girl were found unharmed.

cut 12 (06) “their family”

Manale says everyone is happy to see this incident come to a safe resolution. He says Melchor was booked into the St. James Parish Jail and is awaiting extradition back to North Carolina.

Cut 13 (04)  “abduction”

Manale says the investigation is still ongoing to determine why Melchor took the children. He says everyday law enforcement around the country work together to resolve cases like this and urges the public to come forward with any information.

cut 14 (07)  “they are”

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Louisiana has begun handing out disaster food assistance for residents impacted by extreme flooding. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Gas prices are going up in Louisiana as refineries shut down for annual maintenance. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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According to a recent LSU poll, Louisiana voters are split on whether or not they want their elected officials to compromise. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The state has started handing out disaster food aid to families who have been impacted by the flooding. Deputy Assistant Secretary with the Department of Children and Family Services Sammy Guillory says the number of those applying has been pretty steady in the Covington area but not so much in north Louisiana, where it’s rare for the state to provide disaster food stamps.

cut 4  (11)  “hurricanes”

Guillory recommends pre-registering for food assistance if you live in one of the 23 parishes that have been declared a federal disaster. He says the amount of aid you receive isn’t a set amount.

Cut 5  (07)  “from there”

The food aid benefit cards are being distributed at 25 sites in parishes impacted by the floods. Guillory says flood victims that have a last name with E through K and have been approved, can get their emergency benefit card today. He encourages all people who want to apply to apply.

Cut 6 (09)  “HELP-U” _________________________________________________________

Louisiana voters are split over whether or not elected officials should compromise, according to a new LSU survey. Doctor Michael Henderson, director of the LSU Public Policy Research Lab, says 55-percent of Democrats would like their representatives to compromise, while 52% of Republicans want their elected officials to stand their ground. Henderson says this does not bode well for getting things done in the legislature.

CUT 7 (09)  “have become”

Henderson says with a Democratic governor and a Republican legislature, it’s likely state politicians will have a hard time coming to agreements. He says we’re starting to see Washington-style politics here in Louisiana.

Cut 8  (10)  “by the wayside “

About 87% of Louisiana Republicans have an unfavorable opinion of the Democratic Party in Louisiana, while 67% of Democrats in Louisiana have a negative opinion of the Republican Party. Henderson says this could be why the two parties are having a hard time compromising.

Cut 9 (10)  “be able to”

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Gas prices are climbing in Louisiana. The average price for a gallon of gas in the state has surpassed $1.80. AAA Spokesperson Don Redman says those prices could continue to go up for a couple more months.

Cut 10 (06) “a gallon”

Redman says the transition from winter-grade to summer-grade gas means refineries have to shut down for a while. He says that, coupled with more people out on the road, keeps gas prices higher.

cut 11 (10) “prices up”

Redman says we should see a decline in gas prices by the time summer arrives.

cut 12 (09) “fairly soon”_________________________________________________________

The governor’s top budget advisor told the House Appropriations Committee despite the additional one-point-two billion dollars in taxes raised, some government agencies are looking at a 30-percent cut in state funding. Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says painful cuts will need to occur for the fiscal year that starts July 1st…

Cut 13 (07)  “throughout the state”

Dardenne says more details will be released in a couple of weeks. He says with the revenue raised during the special session they’ve been able to avoid the worst case scenario, but delivery of services around the state will still be impacted…

Cut 14 (09)  “government level” 

Meanwhile, the House Appropriations Committee will begin budget hearings this week, without a proposed spending plan from the governor. Dardenne urges legislators to do what they can, until the administration plugs in the 750-million dollar deficit into the budget…

Cut 15 (09) “2016 year”

  _____________________________________

NBA superstar Pelicans center Anthony Davis says he’s been playing with a torn labrum in his shoulder for three years and will take the rest of the season off due to surgery. This also means he won’t go to the summer Olympics in Rio de Janerio, Brazil. Davis says he isn’t looking forward to being off the court but something needs to be done.

Cut 16  (10)  “next season”

Davis is also suffering from a knee injury. Davis says when you want to play, you find ways but it’s time to permanently fix the problem. He says the main reason he’s getting his shoulder fixed is because he was already getting surgery on his knee.

Cut 17 (14) “the way”

Davis says he’ll be out four to five months after surgery.  He says the hardest thing about taking this time off is he’ll miss representing his country in the Olympics.

Cut 18 (16) “the floor”

Parts of Ouachita parish are still underwater, as the Monroe area received over two feet of rain in the recent flooding event. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Fewer Louisiana medical school graduates are choosing to stay in the state for their residencies, according to Dr. Steve Nelson, Dean of the School of Medicine at LSU Health New Orleans. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Two more Disaster Recovery Centers opened today, one in Monroe and the other in Slidell. Mike Steele, with the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, says at these centers, flood survivors can find personnel from all of the agencies involved in disaster recovery, as well as small business administrators with information about low-interest loans…

CUT 3 (06)  “assisting people”

Steele says the volunteer groups will be able to help people with their immediate needs, like clean up. He says these centers will be open from 8 to 6 Monday through Saturday, and noon to five on Sunday. The first one opened up last week in Bossier City and Steele says more centers should open soon.

CUT 4 (05)  “working towards now”

Steele says people can still report their damage online at emergency-dot-la-dot-gov. He says people do not have to go to one of these centers to register for federal aid.

CUT 5 (09)  “assistance”

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Two weeks after Louisiana’s major flooding event, much of Ouachita parish is still underwater. Neal Brown, Director of Ouachita Parish Homeland Security, says rivers and bayous throughout the parish are still cresting, which means the water has nowhere to go right now.

CUT 6 (08) “the parish”

Brown says his biggest concern is the high water putting pressure on levees around neighborhoods that were not meant to hold that much water for so long. He says when the water does start to drain, it could be bad for nearby parishes.

CUT 7 (07) “hit them”

Brown says people are coming together and across the country to help. He says seeing volunteers in the area helps keep people in high spirits.

CUT 8 (11) “greatly appreciated”

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Only 51% of LSU Health New Orleans medical graduate are staying in Louisiana for their residencies. Dr. Steve Nelson, Dean of the School of Medicine at LSU Health New Orleans, says that’s a significant drop from previous years.

CUT 9 (09) “62%”

Nelson says the drop in grads staying in the state is due to Louisiana’s budget concerns. He says 70% of Louisiana doctors trained at an LSU facility, so losing those doctors could be detrimental to the state’s healthcare system.

cut 10 (11)  “come back”

Nelson says a lack of doctors will make it harder for people, especially since the governor is looking at expanding the state’s Medicaid program. Forty percent of LSU Health Shreveport grads and only 10% of Tulane grads will take residencies in Louisiana. Nelson says 50% of LSU Health New Orleans graduates are entering primary care in Louisiana, which is a good thing.

Cut 11 (08) “the state”

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Two giraffes at the Baton Rouge Zoo died over the weekend, and workers are heartbroken. Sam Winslow, the zoo’s general curator, says one of the giraffes, a 24-year-old named Hope, was receiving treatment for a chronic illness. He says when severe storms moved in, they were forced to put another female into a stall with a male she’s normally not with…:

cut 12 (07) “happened so quick”

The 30-year-old female giraffe named Mopani was knocked over by a male giraffe named Roan which caused injuries that led to her death. Winslow says Hope’s condition worsened and she had to be euthanized. He says it’s hard enough losing one animal to an illness you’ve been working so long to treat…:

Cut 13 (06)  “discouraging”

Winslow said Roan and Mopani generally got along fine and their keepers would never put them together if they thought there was a chance of conflict. He says they’ve been criticized for moving Mopani, but she needed shelter from the thunderstorm…

cut 14 (10)  “like that”

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LSU’s Ben Simmons has told ESPN he is entering his name into the NBA Draft and he’ll hire an agent soon. Simmons will mostly likely be the number one overall pick in June. Tiger Rag Editor Cody Worsham says statistically, Simmons had one of the best seasons in college basketball history, but he was not able to lead the Tigers to the NCAA Tournament…

cut 15 (09) ” he would” 

Simmons averaged 19 points, 12 rebounds and five assists in his only season in a Tigers uniform. But since LSU missed the NCAA Tournament, many fans wonder if it was worth having a one-and-done player. Worsham says it remains to be seen if it was a good thing that Simmons played for the Tigers…

cut 16 (12) “bad thing”

Expect the legislature to address the controversial split playoffs in high school atheltics. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Senate Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Committee begins reviewing today the 400 tax exemptions given by the state to individuals and businesses. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Southeast Louisiana could be at an increased risk for the Zika virus, according to health officials. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Experts say southeast Louisiana is at a high risk of a Zika outbreak this summer. Dr. Frank Welch, with the Louisiana Department Health and Hospitals says state and local health officials are performing extensive surveillance…

cut 4  (11)  “rapidly”

A study from the National Center for Atmospheric Research finds New Orleans is at a high risk because of the high poverty rate and a lot of visitors from countries where Zika is prevalent. Welch says different agencies are coming together to protect the state from an outbreak.

Cut 5  (10)  “humans”

The Center for Disease Control says there were two confirmed travel-related Zika cases in Louisiana last month but none transmitted locally. Welch says New Orleans isn’t at an increased risk just yet because right now the mosquito is not active, but…

Cut 6 (07)  “transmission”  _________________________________________________________

It’s expected the legislature will get involved in the public versus private school split that’s impacted high school sports. River Ridge Representative Kirk Talbot has filed a bill that attempts to reverse the LHSAA’s decision to split its postseason in several sports. Talbot says the split is hurting high school athletics…

CUT 7 (06)  “in mind”

Talbot’s bill would prevent a high school from receiving state funds, if they participate in an association with a split postseason…

Cut 8  (07)  “A,B and C “

Schools around the state have been invited to join a new high school sports association that would NOT have a split playoff system. Talbot says he hopes this legislation will lead to the end of the LHSAA split and bring public and private schools back together for postseasons.

Cut 9 (08)  “kids in mind”

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The Senate Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Committee begins reviewing today hundreds of tax exemptions, exclusions, rebates and refunds provided by the state to individuals and businesses. Chairman JP Morrell of New Orleans says during the course of this legislative session they will take a close look at each exemption to decide which ones are beneficial to the state.

Cut 10 (09) “of it”

Louisiana gives about 400 tax exemptions, costing the state over 8-billion dollars in revenue.  Morrell says some of these credits are ridiculous.

cut 11 (11) “of beads”

Morrell says the state cannot afford to give away money and the credits or exemptions that are deemed unnecessary will be removed in a potential second special session or during next year’s fiscal session.

cut 12 (06) “budget crisis” _________________________________________________________

Last year, the state legislature approved a bill that gives Louisiana residents legal access to medical marijuana, but it’s still not available in this state. The man who pushed for the legislation, St. Martin Parish Senator Fred Mills, says the department of agriculture along with a couple of other groups are still working on the details.

Cut 13 (10)  “dispensed”

The legislation that passed last year allows people with glaucoma, patients undergoing chemotherapy or those suffering from a rare form cerebral palsy to get medical marijuana in Louisiana. Mills is back this year with a bill that would expand the list to include cancer, HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis and several other chronic conditions….

Cut 14 (11)  “will be successful” 

Medical marijuana is currently not available in Louisiana, and Mills says many people are moving to others states that do have it. He says there are plenty of people who are waiting to get it in Louisiana.

Cut 15 (08) “medical condition”

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The sixth ranked LSU baseball team busted out of a hitting slump by scoring six runs in the 8th inning to beat Alabama 7-5 to avoid a three-game sweep. The Tigers needed that inning after getting swept in a doubleheader on Saturday. Coach Paul Mainieri is pleased his team found a way to win the series finale…

Cut 16  (16)  “at bats“

A key hit in the 8th inning rally was Brody Wofford’s two-run pinch hit single. Wofford says he just focused on hitting a pitch up the middle and that’s what he did…

Cut 17 (09) make it happen “

Kramer Robertson’s fly ball into right field scored the eventual go-ahead run. The outfielder lost the ball in the sun, allowing two runs to score. Robertson was relieved to get the win…

Cut 18 (03) “going forward”

A Slidell Teacher has been arrested for allegedly having sexual contact with students. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The extensive flooding in Louisiana is raising concerns for a boom in the mosquito population. Halen Doughty reports health officials are concerned about the diseases carried by these pesky insects….

CUT 2 (29)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Baton Rouge Mayor Kip Holden says he is 90% sure he’ll run for the 2^nd Congressional District seat this fall. Holden would challenge US Representative Cedric Richmond, who has held the seat since 2011. The term-limited Baton Rouge mayor is expected to make an official decision next week. Political analyst Clancy Dubos says if Holden gets in, it will make for an interesting race….

CUT 3 (05)  “for Holden”

Dubos says although Holden ran a good campaign when he ran for Lt. Governor last year, he did not raise a lot of campaign money, which would pose a problem…

CUT 4 (08)  “not just here”

Dubos says while it is not easy to unseat an incumbent, there is a level of dissatisfaction with the federal government, which could help Holden. Dubos says the outgoing Baton Rouge mayor and former state legislator would present a challenge for Richmond.

CUT 5 (11)  “a pushover”

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A Slidell High School teacher has been arrested after allegations of inappropriate behavior with students were reported to police. Slidell Police Chief Randy Smith says 35-year-old Raymond Winzy allegedly would start casual conversations with his students, which turned into sexual conversations. He says once Winzy gained their trust he would invite them into his classroom…

CUT 6 (11) “classroom”

Winzy was also the girls basketball coach at Slidell High School. Smith says police searched Winzy’s home and classroom and found nude photos and videos on multiple electronic devices. He says Winzy has been fired and this type of behavior will not be tolerated.

CUT 7 (10) “with him”

Winzy is charged with two counts of molestation of a juvenile by an educator, nine counts of production of child pornography, and three counts of felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile. Smith says some students at Slidell High School have been bullied and threatened regarding this case and anyone involved will be arrested if a complaint is filed.

CUT 8 (10) “victims”

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All the flood waters are bringing in more mosquitoes and health officials are urging folks to make sure they are taking precautions. Dr. Frank Welch with the Department of Health and Hospitals says this is typical for this time of year, but the flooding makes it worse.

CUT 9 (09) “mosquitoes”

Flooding can cause excessive mosquito breeding, which means there’s a possibility of diseases being carried by these insects. Welch says the mosquito that carries the Zika virus is active in southeast Louisiana. He says people need to remove standing water in and around their yards to keep those mosquitoes away.

cut 10 (09)  “a tire”

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Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says his office will announce next week how much of a cut in state funding higher education and health care will receive as a result of a 70-million dollar deficit for this fiscal year. Dardenne says unfortunately these two areas are on the chopping block, because cuts have already been made to other state agencies…

Cut 11 (09) “those out”

Dardenne says public colleges have already received a 28-million dollar loss in funding this fiscal year, because the state ran out of money to pay for TOPS scholarships and that cost is being absorbed by universities

cut 12 (07) “cuts around”

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Rapides and Avoyelles Parish are making preparations to protect themselves from flooding as the Red River is expected to crest over the weekend at a level that hasn’t been seen in over 30 years. The Homeland Security Director of Rapides Parish Sonya Wiley-Gremillion urges people in the most flood prone areas to take action now and not wait until it’s too late.

Cut 13 (08)  “that area”

Wiley-Gremillion says the Red River is expected to crest at 10 o’clock Sunday night at 39.5 feet. She says their main concern is the safety of the people in Rapides Parish, not their property.

cut 14 (10)  “our office”

Avoyelles Parish Director of Homeland Security Joey Frank says there is a low spot in the levee at Brouillette and they’re placing super sack sandbags to raise it a foot and a half. He says they’ve also raised the Vick levee 18 inches.

cut 15 (07) “Monday morning” 

Frank says so far no homes have been flooded but many are surrounded by water.

cut 16 (09)  “this time”

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