Researchers from the LSU Health Sciences Center are encouraged with a new drug that’s derived from sea moss which could be used to treat Alzheimer’s. Scott Carwile has the story…

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

Senator David Vitter announces he has raised $4 million dollars for his bid to become governor of Louisiana. Eric Gill reports…

Cut 2 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

State Police is requesting a 30% increase for many of its troopers. Michelle Southern reporting.

Cut 3 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

A researcher at the L-S-U Health Sciences Center in Shreveport hopes sea moss found below the surface of the Pacific Ocean could be used to treat patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Doctor Steven Alexander and his team have tested a drug derived  from sea moss and it has a positive effect on mice who suffer from human Alzheimer’s disease

cut 4  (06)  “cognition”

Alexander says they are seeking FDA approval to begin clinical trials on humans and they believe that could happen because this drug, known as Byronstatin, (Bri-oh-stat-in) is effective in pill form…

Cut 5  (09)   “quite a long time”

Alexander says Byrostatin may not be able to cure a person who has Alzheimer’s, but he’s hopeful it could stop the memory loss…

Cut 6 (11)  “life quality”

______________________________________

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is excited about the opening of its brand new student union today. Garland “Chico” Rodriguez is the Assistant Director of building services for UL-Lafayette. He says the two year project now sees the bookstore, Cajun Card office, office of international affairs and much much more…:

CUT 7 (12)  “semester basis”

Rodriguez says the student government association and university program council will also be moving into the new building. He says one of the things they are most excited about is the brand new dining hall…:

Cut 8 (12)  “and the service” 

Rodriguez says there are multiple food stations in the new union and a large courtyard which overlooks the university’s Cypress Lakes. He says the $40 million dollar project was funded by student fees and anyone who’d like to take a look at it can log on to studentunion.louisiana.edu for all updates and hours of operation…:

Cut 9 (09)  “that’s available”

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Senator David Vitter announces he’s raised $4 million dollars for his bid to become governor of Louisiana. According to his campaign, almost 90-percent of the contributions are from in-state donors. Lapolitics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says that’s impressive, but it’s not the whole story…

Cut 10 (12) “David Vitter’s campaign” 

Alford says the Vitter-friendly Super PAC, which will spend a lot money supporting Vitter’s gubernatorial bid, has raised another 3.9 million dollars. And he says Vitter is raising money through his Senate finance campaign account, which can’t be used directly on his gubernatorial campaign, but it can be donated to the Super PAC…

cut 11 (10) “it’s unprecedented”

He says Vitter is re-writing the book on campaign finance in Louisiana. Republican candidate Scott Angelle has reported raising $1.5 million and Democrat John Bel Edwards is reporting fundraising totals of $1 million. Alford reminds voters the election is still many months away and a lot could happen…

cut 12 (07)  “very well change”

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State Police is requesting a 30% increase for many of its troopers. Col Mike Edmonson says the money is coming from a special fund approved in last year’s legislative session which collects fines from drivers with expired auto insurance and puts them in an account for LSP salaries. He says they were asked to find a mechanism that would fund a pay adjustment:

Cut 13 (10)  “spend those dollars”

Edmonson says he will make the request to spend the money in the account at the joint legislative budget committee on Friday when they will vote to approve it. Some have been critical of the timing of the increase as the state faces budget woes and the price of oil is so low, but Edmonson says this has been a long time coming…:

Cut 14 (10)  “they’ve done that”

If lawmakers approve the money shift, starting pay with benefits for troopers would go from about $35,600 a year to $46,600 a year. Edmonson expects this will be approved as he’s heard nothing negative from lawmakers on this matter…:(This will be the first raise for rank-and-file troopers since 2002.)

Cut 15  (10)  “decision”

______________________________________

LSU hires Alabama linebackers coach Kevin Steele as the next defensive coordinator for the Purple and Gold. Prior to coaching at Alabama, Steele served three seasons as the defensive coordinator at Clemson, helping Clemson win the A-C-C in 2011. He also served as the head football coach at Baylor from 1999-2002 compiling a record of 9-36 overall in the Big 12. Football analyst Mike Detillier…:

Cut 16  (19)  “ass off”  

Steele coached linebackers for the Carolina Panthers in the 1990s. Detillier says the defensive philosophy of Steele will be very different from former DC John Chavis…:

Cut 17 (18)  “a quarterback”

Coach Les Miles released a statement saying Steele has been very successful as a coach with a great defensive mind & an outstanding recruiter. The Mad Hatter says Steele knows the LSU players, the Tiger’s system and the SEC. Detillier says one of the areas LSU needs major improvement is with development of defensive lineman…:

Cut 18 (15) “defensive lineman’

Sad story out of Bastrop as two young children who authorities believe were left home alone while their mother was getting her hair done, died in a house fire. Michelle Southern reporting…:

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

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Nearly 400-thousand people in Louisiana have dealt with the flu bug during this influenza season. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

===================

Sad story out of Bastrop as two young children who authorities believe were left home alone while their mother was getting her hair done, died in a house fire. State Fire Marshal Butch Browning says the blaze, which ignited Monday afternoon, was likely started by a gas space heater inside the wood-framed home…:

CUT 3 (10)  “home alone”

Browning says investigators discovered the bodies of a 4-year-old girl and a 3-year-old boy at the Madison Parish home. He says criminal charges are anticipated if they confirm that there was nobody responsible for supervising the children when the fire started. Browning says investigators believe the young siblings never had a chance to get out…:

CUT 4 (12)  “require supervision”

The mother has been identified as 21-year-old Ciarra Johnson and her 4-year-old daughter is Tashae Johnson and 3-year-old son named Clifton Johnson. Browning says if they do find out that the mother didn’t ask anyone to supervise the children why she was gone, negligent homicide charges could be coming…:

CUT 5 (10)  “we’re gonna do that”

===================

It’s a bad flu season and the numbers prove it. Doctor Frank Welch, medical director for the state’s immunization program, says nearly an estimated 400-thousand people have come down with the flu during this flu season and influenza has hospitalized up to four-thousand people…

CUT 6 (11)  “as well”

Welch says they are still seeing an extraordinarily large number of cases reported each week, but

CUT 7 (10)  “anymore”

Welch says the strain of flu that’s most predominent is H-3-N-2….

(Even though the flu vaccine is not a direct match with the flu strain going around, Welch still advises getting an influenza shot.) 

CUT 8 (10) “of the flu”

===================

The Monroe Police Department says a stand off situation at an elderly assisted living complex has ended with one man dead. Detective Reggie Brown says a resident courtesy officer at Frances Towers reported shots fired from the apartment of 64-year-old Adam Spillman. Brown says the courtesy officer and a police officer went to make contact with Spillman…

CUT 9 (10)  “victim to safety”

Spillman shot the courtesy officer, 76-year-old Alton Sutter, in the leg. Brown says Spillman then barricaded himself in his apartment. He says SWAT teams were brought in and they were able to negotiate with Spillman to surrender peacefully…

cut 10 (09)  “local area hospital”

Sutter succumbed to his injuries at a local area hospital. Brown says Spillman is a military veteran, but he did not see any combat. The investigation is ongoing and it has not been determined what charges Spillman will face. Brown says, according to witness statements, there is a question in regard to Spillman’s state of mind at the time of the shooting…

cut 11 (10)  “is in question”

===================

State Treasurer John Kennedy announces that audits of life insurance companies have uncovered more than $31 million in unclaimed property for beneficiaries in the past eight years. He says the audit found that some insurance companies violated their life insurance contracts…

cut 12 (11)  “keep the money”

Kennedy says the audits are necessary because families are often unaware that an insurance policy exists and unless the insurance company tries to locate beneficiaries, the benefit will go unpaid. He says they’re already helping people receive life insurance payments…

cut 13 (11)  “her a check”

The audits are one component to the state’s Unclaimed Property Program. Kennedy says if you think you are owed money, you should search their website… (The website is latreasury-dot-com.)

cut 14 (08)  “at your leisure”

===================

Officials in northwest Louisiana plan to meet with the EPA today over plans to conduct an open burn of the 15 million pounds of M6 propellant at Camp Minden. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29) “reporting”

______________________________________

Applications are once again being accepted for the state’s Louisiana Scholarship program, also known as the voucher program. Scott Carwile has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

The 2015 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is in its 46th year and the lineup once again includes huge acts. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 3 (32) “reporting”

______________________________________

Officials in northwest Louisiana plan to meet with the EPA today over plans to conduct an open burn of the 15 million pounds of M6 propellant at Camp Minden. Minden Representative Gene Reynolds is representing the community’s concern over the potential health effects of burning this propellant. He believes there is another solution…

cut 4  (12)  “that are useful”

Reynolds suggests an incinerator burn of the propellant. He also says that scientists have come up with other ways to dispose of the propellant. The concern among citizens is that the open burning of this propellant will pollute the air around the site. Reynolds feels that another open test burn is unnecessary…

Cut 5  (10)   “burn out here”

The EPA says they are working to assure the safety and effectiveness of onsite, controlled open-burning of the propellant. Reynolds says he’s looking from one thing from the EPA: data that an open burn is safe…

Cut 6 (11)  “of this stuff”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s scholarship program, also known as the voucher program, is now accepting applications from low-income families who wish to have their child attend a private school of their choice with the use of state dollars. Ann Duplessis, president of the Louisiana Federation for Children says the other major qualification is that the student is enrolled in a low-performing public school..

CUT 7 (10)  “a scholarship”

Families may apply at the department of education’s website or in person at the participating school of their choice through February 27th. Last year over 13-thousand families applied and nearly 74-hundred were awarded vouchers. Duplessis says the reviews from participating parents are very good…

Cut 8 (06)  “life changing” 

Duplessis says not only are parents satisfied, but they are seeing results in the classroom as student proficiency on the LEAP and I-LEAP grew more than two percent from 2013 to 2014…

Cut 9 (10)  “and support”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s newly selected Higher Education Commissioner is starting a statewide tour to introduce himself to communities and school leaders. Joseph Rallo will be in Natchitoches today, Shreveport tomorrow and Monroe on Thursday. He says he wants all of the system presidents to be be on the same page when it comes to dealing with issues facing higher ed…:

Cut 10 (04) “vitally important” 

Rallo says he plans to engage with leaders who share the common goal of creating a stronger economy through higher education. He wants to make sure the needs of all students are being met…:

cut 11 (04) “and duplicative”

Rallo says he’ll also be working to develop partnerships which he says are vital to areas dealing with the budget. He says higher ed is at the center of workforce development and the creation of new opportunities…:

cut 12 (11)  “took a stand”

______________________________________

The 2015 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is in its 46th year and the lineup once again includes huge acts like Elton John, Lady Gaga along with Tony Bennett, Keith Urban, The Who, Ed Sheeran, Chicago,  Steve Winwood and many many more. Festival Producer Quint Davis says they are very excited about this year’s performers which are big across the board…:

Cut 13 (10)  “in every genre”

Jazzfest this year is April 24th to May 3rd and you can get the full schedule online a nojazzfest.com. Tickets are on sale starting today. Davis says they have 500 acts taking the stage this year and 425 of them are from New Orleans or Louisiana…:

Cut 14 (10)  “in every category”

The headliner for Sunday May 3rd has yet to be announced and Davis said it will be another exciting name. Other exciting names playing this years festival are Aaron Neville, Wilco, Widespread Panic, Jerry Lee Lewis, Galactic and Pitbull. Davis says they strive to have something for everyone…:

Cut 15  (13)  “like anything”

______________________________________

An interesting candidate has emerged for LSU’s vacant defensive coordinator position. Charles Hanagriff, of 104.5 ESPN Baton Rouge, reports LSU officials have spoken to Alabama defensive coordinator Kirby Smart and Smart could be looking for a change of scenery to help build his resume for a potential head coaching job down the road

Cut 16  (12)  “with him”  

The 39-year-old Smart has been Alabama’s defensive coordinator the last seven seasons. He reportedly made one-point-three-million dollars last year. But Hanagriff says Smart looks at LSU’s job as an opportunity to show he can coach, without Nick Saban looking over his shoulder

Cut 17 (09)  “bit faster”

LSU’s search for a defensive coordinator is entering its third week, but Hanagriff says fans shouldn’t be concerned that they have yet to find a replacement for John Chavis…

Cut 18 (15) “every option’.

President Obama is working on the details of a plan to offer two years of free community college education to any American to help train the US workforce. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

==================

The Baton Rouge Police Department is investigating an accidental shooting which left a man dead and another behind bars. Michelle Southern reports.

CUT 2 (29) “reporting”

===================

President Obama is working on the details of a plan to offer two years of free community college education to any American to help train the US workforce. Dr. Monty Sullivan, the head of the Louisiana Community and Technical College System, says it’s exciting that the work of two-year colleges is getting national recognition…

CUT 3 (10)  “very, very positive”

This program is estimated to cost the federal government around $60 billion over 10 years. Details on how this will be funded will be released next month. Sullivan admits that it is a lot of money, but people shouldn’t look at this as another big money expenditure…

CUT 4 (11)  “grow the economy”

The President will promote the initiative in his State of the Union address on January 20th. Initially, this program has received a cool reception from the Republican-controlled Congress. Sullivan says if this can make it through the legislative process, it will be a great opportunity all the way around…

CUT 5 (10)  “of tomorrow”

===================

Republican US Senator David Vitter says he plans to be active in Washington D-C, even though he’s running for governor this year. Vitter says he has several priorities and one of them is to pass a highway and transportation bill that would help improve traffic flow on major highways…

CUT 6 (09)  “that issue”

With the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline below two-dollars a gallon, there’s talk in Washington about raising gas taxes to fund highway construction needs. But Vitter says instead of raising taxes, use the additional revenue from increased oil and gas production

CUT 7 (04)  “highway system”

Vitter says he’ll also work to repeal the Affordable Care Act and if Obamacare is not going away, then the federal health care laws should apply to everyone in Washington, meaning even the President would have to purchase his insurance through the Marketplace

CUT 8 (04) “top appointees”

===================

The Baton Rouge Police Department is investigating an accidental fatal shooting that occurred as a man was adjusting his pants. Sgt. Mary Ann Godawa says officers responded to the scene and found the victim lying at the end of a driveway, suffering a gunshot wound to his chest. She says cops questioned witnesses and the suspect, 19-year-old Jawan Lloyd Billy…:

CUT 9 (11)  “killed the victim”

Billy is charged with negligent homicide and possession of a stolen firearm. Godawa says the two friends had been sleeping near each other in a garage apartment…:

cut 10 (07)  “handgun went off”

Godawa says there is a valuable lesson here…:

cut 11 (08)  “in the vehicle”

===================

The US Supreme Court has rejected a plea to consider striking down Louisiana’s ban on same-sex marriage. Loyola Law Professor Dane Ciolino says this doesn’t mean the issue is dead…

cut 12 (07)  “on the issue”

This decision from the US Supreme Court means the district court ruling upholding Louisiana’s ban on same-sex marriage must first be challenged in a federal appeals court. The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguments last week on the issue. Ciolino thinks it’s a toss-up on how the 5th Circuit will rule…

cut 13 (06)  “spring, for sure”

He thinks the 5th Circuit will issue a ruling sometime this spring. Circuit Courts have ruled differently on this issue, creating a circuit split on the issue of same-sex marriage. Ciolino thinks the US Supreme Court wants to let the 5th Circuit choose which way it thinks the issue should go…

cut 14 (08)  “the following term”

The Transportation Funding Task Force meets today at the Capitol where they’ll finalize recommendations on improving the way the state funds highway improvements. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

The Jindal administration is consdering a 200 to 300 million dollar cut to higher education, but it faces opposition from legislative and university leaders. Scott Carwile has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

Lynne Marino, the highly outspoken mother of serial killer victim Pam Kinamore, discloses that she has pancreatic cancer and hopes to see Derrick Todd Lee executed before she dies. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 3 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

The Transportation Funding Task Force meets today at the Capitol where they’ll finalize recommendations on improving the way the state funds highway improvements. There is currently a $12 billion backlog of road and bridge needs in the state. Senate Transportation Committee Chairman, Robert Adley of Benton, says one item is at the top of everyone’s list…

cut 4  (10)  “to be discussed”

He says they’ll work to protect the transportation trust fund from being used for the general operation of the state. With this being Governor Jindal’s final year in office, it is not expected that we’ll see major changes to how the state funds roadway projects. But Adley is hopeful the task force will get behind his plan to ensure the state spends $70 million for roadway preservation…

Cut 5  (12)  “on right now”

He says the state currently spends about $27 million annually on roadway preservation. The panel’s recommendations are due to the Legislature by January 15. Adley says there has been discussion of raising the gas tax to better fund road improvements, but he doesn’t see that happening…

Cut 6 (11)  “at this point”

______________________________________

House Speaker Chuck Kleckley says he’ll fight any plan that would significantly reduce funding for higher education. A spokeswoman for the  Jindal Administration says a 200 to 300 million dollar cut in funding to higher ed is being considered for the fiscal year budget that starts July 1st. But Kleckley says he’s not having any of it….

CUT 7 (07)  “generations”

The Jindal administration is looking at ways to reduce funding as the result of an anticipated one-point-four billion dollar shortfall. Kleckley says he’ll look at other options, but cutting higher ed when the state needs to bolster its workforce is not the answer…

Cut 8 (06)  “would not support” 

University of Louisiana System President Sandra Woodley is confident that the legislature will make sure a 300-million dollar cut in funding for higher fund will not happen…

Cut 9 (11)  “have now”

______________________________________

Lynne Marino, the highly outspoken mother of serial killer victim Pam Kinamore, discloses that she has pancreatic cancer and hopes to see Derrick Todd Lee executed before she dies. Lee got the death penalty for the murder of Charlotte Murray Pace in 2004 and his case has since been tied up in several appeals. Marino says it’s time for Lee to go…:

Cut 10 (10) “got worse” 

Lee wants a new trial which has been rejected by a Baton Rouge state judge and now heads to the Louisiana Supreme Court -then- if those justices feel the same the case would go to a drawn out post-conviction relief stage. Marino, who is 78, said when she was diagnosed with one of the worst forms of cancer, she had one thought…:

cut 11 (11) “and to my family”

Lee was linked by DNA to the deaths of seven women in the Baton Rouge and Lafayette areas. Marino is calling for legislation whereby when a conviction is based on DNA, someone sentenced to death shouldn’t sit on death row for 25-30 years…:

cut 12 (11)  “took a stand”

______________________________________

Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne announces plans for a major motion picture set to be filmed exclusively in Louisiana about the Battle of New Orleans. The movie will be called, “Andrew Jackson – The Battle For New Orleans.” Dardenne says the project will be based off the book by Ron Drez “The War of 1812: Conflict and Deception” and will begin filming here soon…:

Cut 13 (12)  “here in Louisiana”

Dardenne says the unpredictable victory at the Battle of New Orleans is made for film as folks love rooting for the underdog. He says that battle shaped the future of America and saved New Orleans and Louisiana as a port to be controlled by the US instead of the British…:

Cut 14 (07)  “look different”

Dardenne says this film will remind the country that America’s success as a nation was solidified 200 years ago in Chalmette. He says the premise of Drez’s book is that the British were committed to the Battle of New Orleans whether or not the treaty had been ratified or war had been won:

Cut 15  (13)  “200th anniversary”

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Concerns are mounting over a US Environmental Protection Agency plan to perform an open tray burn in northwest Louisiana as a way to dispose 15-million pounds of M-6 propellant. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

==================

The latest fund raising totals from Republican Public Service Commissioner Scott Angelle shows he is a serious candidate for governor. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 2 (31) “reporting”

===================

There’s a growing concern in northwest Louisiana over a plan to burn 15-million pounds of M6 propellant in steel trays at Camp Minden. Minden Mayor Tommy Davis says he and other local officials are worried about possible health effects….

CUT 3 (10)  “environmental impact”

The explosive propellant once belonged to Explo Systems, who went bankrupt and the M6 is currently stored in bunkers at Camp Minden.  It is deteriorating and there is concern it could explode if isn’t disposed of soon. But Davis says the “open burn method” might not be the best option….

CUT 4 (06)  “explore that”

The US E-P-A supports opening burning as the disposal method. Davis says Louisiana’s Congressional delegation is putting the pressure on the agency to prove that the open tray burn is safe…

CUT 5 (09)  “to be”

===================

The latest fund raising totals from Republican Public Service Commissioner Scott Angelle shows he is a serious candidate for governor. Angelle announced that his campaign has raised over $1.5 million since he announced his candidacy on October 2nd. UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says this certainly answers some questions about Angelle’s ability to raise money…

CUT 6 (12)  “to doing that”

Angelle’s campaign reports over $1.4 million in cash on hand. Angelle is one of three Republicans seeking the governorship, along with Senator David Vitter and Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne. Cross says, financially speaking, Angelle appears to have a lot of support within the party despite running against two GOP heavyweights…

CUT 7 (08)  “that alternative”

Cross says the two candidates most affected by this news are Dardenne and Democratic State Representative John Bel Edwards…

CUT 8 (06) “at this point”

===================

The Bossier City Police Department says a 25-year-old Shreveport woman is booked with negligent homicide in the death of her son who was killed in a crash she was involved in. Spokesman Mark Natale says Quirtisha Allen was arrested Thursday in connection with the September 2014 incident…:

CUT 9 (10)  “in the crash”

Natale says as a result of a three month investigation, Allen was charged in the incident. He says the cops processing the scene needed to operate with the utmost diligence which is why it took a while before the mother was charged in the death of her 6-year-old son…:

cut 10 (07)  “at the time”

Allen is being held on $45,000 bond. Natale says there were two main factors that resulted in the mother’s arrest…:

cut 11 (08)  “in the vehicle”

===================

According to a recent study out of Yale University, cold weather can in fact make you sick. Dr. Fred Lopez is an Infectious Diseases specialist at the LSU New Orleans School of Medicine. He says they are finding validity to the fact that the lower the temperature outside, the more likely a cold virus is going to thrive…:

cut 12 (07)  “colder temperatures”

Lopez says the most common virus which causes a cold replicates and makes more copies of itself at cooler temperatures…:

cut 13 (10)  “colder temperatures”

Lopez says the nasal cavity is where the flu virus will most often enter the body and when that area is cooler then the bug is allowed to grow more effectively. He says staying out of the cold does help…:

cut 14 (08)  “to thrive”

===================

The US House overwhelmingly passed the Keystone XL Pipeline bill today. The bill advanced on a 266-153 vote and was one of the first pieces of legislation taken up by the newly sworn-in Republican-controlled Congress. Newly elected 6th District Republican Congressman Garret Graves is glad to see the Keystone bill pass despite the threat of a presidential veto…

cut 15 (07) “have indicated”

This is the 10th vote the house has taken on the controversial pipeline since July 2011. The Senate has enough votes to pass an identical bill and will take a test vote on Monday. Graves thinks having the actual Keystone Pipeline bill in front of him may make the president reconsider vetoing it, considering it has a lot of support…

cut 16 (09) “with Congress”

Today the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals will hear three cases regarding same-sex marriage bans in Louisiana, Texas, and Mississippi. Jeff Palermo reports…

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

The first bill of what’s expected to be many items dealing with cell phone use while driving has been proposed for the 2015 legislative session. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

Louisiana public schools receive an overall grade of D-plus from Education Week’s annual report card. Scott Carwile has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

Today the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals hears three cases regarding same-sex marriage bans in Louisiana, Texas, and Mississippi. In September, Federal Judge Martin Feldman upheld Louisiana’s ban on same-sex marriage, but the ruling was appealed to the 5th Circuit. Tulane Constitutional Law Professor Keith Werhan says the 5th Circuit is one of the most conservative circuit courts in the nation…

cut 4  (06)  “same-sex marriage”

In November, the 6th Circuit upheld same-sex marriage bans in four states. Werhan says supporters will argue that the state has to have a legitimate reason in denying two adults who want to marry, the right to do so. He says opponents will argue on the strength of state’s rights…

Cut 5  (09)  “their state”

Because the 6th Circuit decision created a circuit split on the issue, the US Supreme Court will privately discuss same-sex marriage cases from several states today, including Louisiana. Werhan says the ultimate decision on same-sex marriage will come from the US Supreme Court, perhaps this year…

Cut 6 (09)  “resolve this issue”

______________________________________

A state lawmaker from Mandeville is introducing a bill in the upcoming legislative session that would restrict the use of cell phones to “hands-free” only on the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway. Representative Tim Burns says the number of fatal accidents involving vehicles plunging off the side of the bridge has gone from one every 5 years to three a year now…:

CUT 7 (09)  “distracted driving”

Burns supports a statewide ban on hand held cell phone use while driving but lawmakers can never pass such legislation. But he says people who drive the Causeway seem more prone to be on their phones while behind the wheel which is a major problem…:

Cut 8 (11)  “electronic device” 

The bill would require people who drive The Causeway to use wireless technology if they want to talk on the phone. Burns says this is a reasonable request as eyes should remain on roadways…:

Cut 9 (10)  “to their ear”

______________________________________

A grand jury in Calcasieu Parish did not indict a former LSU and NFL player on an attempted second degree murder charge. According to authorities, Tahj Jones was shot by Brandon Winey during an altercation in April of last year. Walt Sanchez is the defense attornery for Winey. He says this case is far more complicated than was originally reported…:

Cut 10 (12) “appropriate resolution” 

The 25-year-old Jones, who went to Sulphur High and played at LSU from 2010-2013, was shot once in the stomach. Winey was arrested on a charge of second degree murder. Sanchez says he’s glad the grand jury agreed that the gun was fired in self defense…:

cut 11 (07) “right result”

Winey, who is 36, played at LSU from 1998-2000 and spent two seasons playing for the Miami Dolphins. Authorities believe Winey arrived at a woman’s apartment while Jones was there and an argument between the two men lead to a fight. Sanchez says Winey is very pleased the grand jury did not send down an indictment…:

cut 12 (05)  “like this”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s public schools receive a grade of D-plus from Education Week as part of their annual report. The state’s public education system is also ranked 44th, up five spots from their previous report. House Education Chairman, Steve Carter of Baton Rouge, says a series of reforms passed in 2012, including one that allows educators who peform well to get paid more, will lead to a better grade in the future…

Cut 13 (09)  “good principal”

Carter says it’s encouraging to see Louisiana move up in the rankings, because historically the bayou state has ranked 48th or 49th when it comes to public education…

Cut 14 (06)  “to accomplish”

Louisiana received a grade of D-Minus for K-through-12 Achievement, but received a grade of B-minus for its early-education programs. Carter says they could do even better with pre-K, if they had more dollars going towards it…

Cut 15  (08)  “these programs”

______________________________________

The freezing temperatures that have descended on the state has strawberry farmers working to minimize the damage the weather could have on their crops. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

==================

Governor Bobby Jindal announces he’s planned a trip to Europe seeking new foreign trade and investment. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (27) “reporting”

===================

The freezing temperatures that have descended on the state has strawberry farmers working to minimize the damage the weather could have on their crops. Regina Bracy, with the LSU AgCenter, says sub freezing temps can have disasterous effects on the strawberry harvest. But Bracy adds that strawberry plants can take the cold…

CUT 3 (09)  “a few berries”

Bracy says when temperatures drop into the teens, it’s very difficult to protect the blooms and fruit on strawberry plants. She says if those are lost, it’s not all bad news. She says strawberries will continue to produce more flowers and more fruit. Bracy says consumers may have to adjust their calendar a bit…

CUT 4 (11)  “juicy, ripe berries”

Bracy says the spring harvest may be a little delayed due to damage to the crop from the winter weather. William Fletcher, a strawberry farmer in Ponchatoula, says his crop did sustain some damage from the freezing temperatures but does not think it’s catastrophic…

CUT 5 (09)  “last night”

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On his continued quest to bring more business to Louisiana, Governor Bobby Jindal announces he’s planned a trip to Europe seeking new foreign trade and investment. Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Stephen Moret says they want to go global in efforts to attract new jobs to Louisiana…:

CUT 6 (10)  “in our state”

Jindal says he has meetings in Germany, the United Kingdom and Switzerland with corporate executives of manufacturing and services industries. He leaves Sunday and will be back January 20th. Moret says all of the companies they’ll be meeting with are considering major projects in Louisiana…:

CUT 7 (08)  “services firms”

Jindal visited Asia last year in January and Moret says the relationships they were able to build there will result in expected additional economic development announcements for Louisiana within the next couple of months. He says more jobs for citizens here has always been a major priority for the Governor’s Administration…:

CUT 8 (10) “in Europe”

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It was a cold morning across Louisiana. Phil Grigsby, with the National Weather Service in New Orleans, says the low temperature in Baton Rouge and Slidell tied a record of 20-degrees…

CUT 9 (09)  “interesting thing”

Grigsby says it will be a cold afternoon and night, with wind chill readings in the low 30s…

cut 10 (08)  “mid 20s”

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The search for a new LSU defensive coordinator doesn’t appear to be going so well. Coach Les Miles has reportedly interviewed or spoke with several candidates, but a front-runner has yet to emerge. LSU beat reporter for Gannett Newspapers, Glen Guilbeau, says Miles may have to promote defensive line coach Brick Haley to replace the departed John Chavis

cut 11 (07)  “look good”

Alabama linebackers coach Kevin Steele and Oregon defensive coordinator Don Pellum are other names that have been mentioned as possible candidates. Guilbeau says it’s concerning a high-profile candidate hasn’t emerged

cut 12 (09)  “at the moment”

Penn State defensive coordinator Bob Shoop reportedly interviewed, but decided to remain with the Nittany Lions. Guilbeau says Shoop was the best candidate out there named so far

cut 13 (08)  “Coach Chavis”

======================

The Thibodaux Police Department says a man is under arrest after cops say he stole a vehicle then told officers his phone made him do it. Spokesman David Melancon says shortly after they got the report of a stolen vehicle, they were able to locate it with 46-year-old Lionel Adams Jr of Thibodaux behind the wheel…:

cut 14 (11)  “that was his vehicle”

Melancon says after further questioning, Adams ended up admitting that he knew the car was not his…:(Adams was booked into the Lafourche Parish Detention Cenfor for theft of a motor vehicle, DWI and remaining after being forbidden.)

cut 15 (09) “no one was injured”

Festivities begin today to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Battle of New Orleans. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (28) “reporting”

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It’s a very frosty start to the morning. Scott Carwile has more…

Cut 2 (27) “reporting”

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If you’d like to try to save money on your homeowners and auto insurance, the Department of Insurance has enhanced its online tool to help consumers find a better rate. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (31) “reporting”

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Festivities begin today to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Battle of New Orleans. As part of the War of 1812, the battle culminated in a US victory over the British in Chalmette on January 8, 1815. Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne says this was one of the most important battles fought on American soil…

cut 4  (11)  “moment in history”

Dardenne says this victory enabled America to continue to expand westward and cemented Louisiana’s role as part of the United States. He says special events will last throughout the weekend. Dardenne says today’s festivities include a concert by the Marine band in Jackson Square at 7PM…

Cut 5  (07)  “commemorate the battle”

Dardenne says this battle marked the end to hostilities between the US and Great Britain and the British Ambassador to the United States will be on hand to commemorate the event. Dardenne says the weekend will include battle reenactments…

Cut 6 (09)  “in Chalmette”

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We’re seeing temperatures in the teens for the northern half of the state and it’s not much warmer along the coast. State Climatologist Barry Keim says be prepared for what will be a cold day

CUT 7 (05)  “acting up again”

It was unusually cold in Louisiana last January and Keim says we are experiencing another polar vortex…

Cut 8 (12)  “Gulf coast” 

Keim says not only is the air temperature colder than normal, but we are also seeing some bone chilling wind chill readings…

Cut 9 (10)  “wind chill temperatures”

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The former star of the now-cancelled reality TV series Sons of Guns is set to be arraigned in Baton Rouge today. 49-year-old Will Hayden of Greenwell Springs is accused of raping two preteen girls more that 20 years apart. Legal analyst Tim Meche says Hayden will likely plea not guilty…:

Cut 10 (12) “for the case” 

In East Baton Rouge Hayden allegedly raped an 11-year-old girl sometime between March 2013 and August 2014 then again when she was 12. His oldest daughter appeared on the Dr. Phil show and said she was raped by the suspect 20 years ago. Meche says this case will be largely based on what physical evidence is presented…:

cut 11 (06) “cases”

Hayden also faces rape charges in Livingston Parish. Meche says the fact that this case apparently involves minors and family members will mean a lot will be learned about the dynamic of those relationships…:

cut 12 (07)  “like this”

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If you’d like to try to save money on your homeowners and auto insurance, the Department of Insurance has enhanced its online tool to help consumers find a better rate. Commissioner Jim Donelon says you can enter specific information about you into the new website like your age, or how many miles you drive and other things that set rates for insurance…:

Cut 13 (09)  “in their marketplace”

Donelon says among the features of the new website are streamlined online services and a responsive design that makes it compatible with mobile devices. He says Louisiana has done better than any state in the nation at replacing large insurance companies, with smaller regional carriers…:(The “Shop Your Rates” guides can be accessed at ldi.la.gov.)

Cut 14 (12)  “substantial dollars”

Donelon says policy holders should keep in mind that the scenarios presented in the comparisons are for illustrative purposes and are not designed to match any individuals exact circumstances. He says there is substantial savings to be had by shopping around and comparing companies and rates…:

Cut 15  (09)  “they are backed up”

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The LSU men’s basketball team begins conference play tonight as they visit the Missouri Tigers in a game that will tip-off at 6 P-M. The Bayou Bengals enter league play with an 11-and-2 record and eight-game winning streak. But Coach Johnny Jones says a whole new season begins tonight…

Cut 16  (15)  “everything changes”  

LSU is led by sophomores Jarell Martin and Jordan Mickey, who aare averaging 18 points and 16 points a game respectively. Jones also likes how sophomore guard Tim Quarterman is playing…

Cut 17 (11)  “fun part”

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The Ragin Cajuns are 3-and-0 in the Sun Belt, the only team in the league with an undefeated conference record. But tonight U-L Lafayette hosts defending Sun Belt regular season champion and this year’s preseason favorite, Georgia State. Cajuns Coach Bob Marlin says turnovers will be a key stat to watch….

Cut 18 (17) “certainly help’

Both teams are 9-and-5 overall and Georgia State is led by Ryan Harrow, who is averaging 20 points a game. Marlin says for the fans that make it out to the Cajundome, they’ll see two good teams going at it

Cut 19 (22)   “some success”

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The top two preseason favorites in Conference USA, Louisiana Tech and UTEP, meet in El Paso tonight at 8 P-M. The Bulldogs are 10-and-4 on the season and Coach Michael White is hoping for a big game out of Raheem Appleby, who is averaging 17 points a game

Cut 20 (20)  “our league”

The State Department of Transportation has announced a project that will widen a portion of Interstate 10 between Lafayette and St. Martin Parishes. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

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Get ready to bundle up as the coldest air of the winter arrives in Louisiana. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

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Tomorrow morning we’ll see the coldest temperatures of the winter as low temperatures will dip into the teens in north Louisiana and low 20s in south Louisiana. The cold weather means a greater risk of fires as people try to keep their homes warm. State Fire Marshal Butch Browning says use today to make sure your detectors work

CUT 3 (09)  “retail outlet”

Browning says unfortunately the cold weather brings an increase in home fires. He says many people use space heaters, if that’s the case give them space and there are other things you can do…

CUT 4 (10)  “your home”

Browning says do not use your stove or stove top as a way to heat your home…

CUT 5 (10)  “for that”

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The State Department of Transportation announces a plan to widen a portion of Interstate 10 between Lafayette and St. Martin Parishes. DOTD spokesperson Diedra Druilhet says construction will take place where I-10 meets I-49 all the way to Breaux Bridge. She says the estimated cost of this project will be in the neighborhood of $125 million…

CUT 6 (07)  “the project done”

They anticipate the two year project will begin in the fall of 2016. The public comment period for this project is open and citizens have until January 17th to address their concerns. Druilhet says their plan should not impact traffic very much on this busy roadway…

CUT 7 (10)  “existing median”

Druihlet says the project will also include putting in new pavement on the existing roadway. She says this is the first of three projects that will widen or improve I-10 from Lafayette to the Atchafalaya Basin…

CUT 8 (11) “for that area”

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Media reports indicate that Saints defensive coordinator, Rob Ryan, will remain with the team next season. The Black & Gold defense ranked 31st in the NFL in yards allowed this season during a disappointing 7-9 season. Saints radio color analyst Hokie Gajan believes Ryan deserves a third year at the helm…

CUT 9 (08)  “number four defense”

In Ryan’s first year as Saints defensive coordinator, the team ranked fourth in the NFL in yards allowed. NFL analyst Mike Detillier says he’s not surprised that the Saints held on to Ryan…

cut 10 (10)  “have the players”

Ryan had recently said that this was his worst season in his 10 years as an NFL defensive coordinator. Detillier says the teams defensive problems are more of a personnel issue than a coaching one. He says the Saints need to use this offseason getting quality players to shore up their defense…

cut 11 (07)  “defensive coordinators”

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The Kaplan Police Department says an Abbeville High School teacher is in jail accused of having sex with one of his female juvenile students. Chief Boyd Adams says they originally received the complaint about 36-year-old Nicholas Willis from Abbeville Police…:

cut 12 (05)  “Abbeville High”

According to the Vermilion Parish School System website, Willis taught physical science and chemistry at Abbeville High. Adams says cops learned the alleged incident occurred in Kaplan where the suspect lived…:

cut 13 (09)  “arrested Mr. Willis”

Adams says Willis is accused of engaging in sexual relations with the juvenile which is a felony…:(Willis is charged with felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile and is being held on a $200,000 bond.)

cut 14 (04)  “$200,000”

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