The National Highway Safety Administration reports that fewer drunk drivers are on the road, but drug use while driving is rising. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29) “reporting”

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

The now-former 2015 Houma Mardi Gras Krewe King has been arrested for a second time this week for allegedly violating sex offender laws again. Michelle Southern reports.

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

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

The National Highway Safety Administration reports that fewer drunk drivers are on the road, but drug use while driving is rising. Louisiana Highway Safety Commission Executive Director Col. John Leblanc says there have been an exceptional number of Louisiana drivers found to be under the influence of drugs…

CUT 3 (10)  “was three”

Leblanc says, over the last three years, half of the toxicology cases done in the state related to traffic came back with drugs. He says synthetic drugs have become a particular problem. Leblanc says his office is funding special equipment for the LSP crime lab to be able to test for synthetic drugs…

CUT 4 (08)  “and bath salts”

In 2014, there were over 2,200 toxicology reports released related to traffic and nearly 1,500 of those showed drug use. Leblanc says there is a long way to go in the battle on drunk driving and when you add drugs to the mixture, it only worsens the problem. He says driving under the influence of drugs is just as dangerous as driving drunk…

CUT 5 (07)  “injury accident”

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

The candidates for running governor must report by Wednesday how much they raised during 2014. It’s expected Senator David Vitter will report the most at around four-million dollars, and Lt Governor Jay Dardenne said on the Jim Engster Show he’s raised about half of that

CUT 6 (06)  “the bank”

Public Service Commissioner Scott Angelle previously said he raised one-half-million dollars in 2014, while the lone democrat in the race, state representative John Bel Edwards said he raised one-million dollars. Dardenne says he knows Vitter will have the most money available, but that shouldn’t decide the election…

CUT 7 (08)  “competitive race”

The former state senator and Secretary of State also announced on the Jim Engster show that his run for governor will be the last office he runs for….

CUT 8 (12)  “of Louisiana”

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

State Police arrest two drug traffickers in Alexandria that were preparing to sell drugs to Mardi Gras revelers. Master Trooper Scott Moreau says authorities were alerted to suspicious activity of an aircraft at Alexandria International Airport. He says during their investigation, a K-9 alerted officers of possible drugs on the aircraft and a search began…

CUT 9 (12)  “85-hundred dollars”

He says troopers seized over 34 pounds of marijuana and over 550 grams of hashish. 37-year-old George Marshall of Gulf Shores, AL and 40-year-old John Marshall of Grass Valley, CA were taken into custody. Moreau says officials determined that these drugs had a definite destination…

cut 10 (10)  “in Mardi Gras”

He says information obtained during interviews with the suspects indicated the narcotics were to be sold during Mardi Gras. Moreau says both men were booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center…

cut 11 (05) “to distribute”

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

Law enforcement have arrested a 15-year-old who threatened to use a gun on the principal at Port Barre High School. Port Barre Police Chief Deon Boudreaux says the student brought a bullet with him to school and he was showing it off to fellow classmates

cut 12 (08)  “with that”

Boudreaux says the troubled teenager also had a fake gun on his possession, but his detectives believe that the child thought it was real and intended to use…

cut 13 (10)  “model Remington”

Boudreaux says the 15-year-old remains in police custody and he hopes that he gets some psychological help

cut 14 (10)  “use it”

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

Planned Parenthood has filed an appeal regarding a Department of Health and Hospitals decision denying the group permission to perform abortions at a new facility currently under construction in New Orleans. Scott Carwile reports…

CUT 1 (29) “reporting”

______________________________________

States in the south are snatching up more tickets than ever for the racy movie “50 Shades of Grey” compared to the rest of the nation. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 2 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

The longtime voice of the LSU Tigers announces his retirement. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (32) “reporting”

______________________________________

Planned Parenthood has filed an appeal regarding a Department of Health and Hospitals decision denying the group permission to perform abortions at a new facility currently under construction in New Orleans. Senior Counsel, Roger Evans, says the basis of the appeal is that DHH offered no basis in denying the application…

cut 4  (12)  “was no need”

The group says they currently see about 8,000 patients at their current health center in New Orleans. DHH Secretary Kathy Kliebert says the organization did not meet the Facility Need Requirements specified by the state and their application was denied…

Cut 5  (06)  “those requirements”

Kliebert says the Facility Need Review process allows them to regulate the number and location of providers based on need. But Evans says they did show the need for the new facility and is confident the denial will be overturned…

Cut 6 (12)  “has one succeeded”

A decision from an administrative law judge is expected in 4 to 7 months. Kliebert is positive their decision will stand…

CUT 7 (09)  “those rules correctly”

______________________________________

States in the south are snatching up more tickets than ever for the February 14th release of the racy movie “50 Shades of Grey” compared to the rest of the nation. According to Fandango, Louisiana and Alabama are buying twice as many pre-sale tickets than normal for the film, while Mississippi tops the list at 4 times their usual rate. The ticket hub’s chief correspondent is Dave Karger…:

Cut 8  (11)  “are in the south” 

Karger says they are finding that people in the south, and across the nation, are obsessed with the book which is translating to over the top ticket sales for the film. He says people in southern states are buying more tickets than expected when you look at the rest of the US…:

Cut 9 (05)  “we’re realizing”

Karger says this film is already the fastest-selling R-rated movie in Fandango’s 15 years of business…:

Cut 10 (10) “thoughtful film”

______________________________________

Governor Bobby Jindal proposes reducing the size of tax credits in cases where a company or individual receives more money from the state than they owe as a way to balance next fiscal year’s budget. Jindal says two of his cabinet secretaries are looking at how this could help the state’s fiscal situation

cut 11 (10) “health care”

The state faces a one-point-six billion dollar shortfall for next fiscal year. Jindal’s commissioner of administration, Kristy Nichols, will present a proposed spending plan to lawmakers on February 27th and despite this huge deficit, Jindal says increasing taxes are off the table…

cut 12 (05)  “health care”

Jindal says he’s committed to protecting higher education and health care from big budget cuts. He says one possible solution is to reduce tax credits in cases where the amount of the credit is more than the company or person owes in taxes…..

Cut 13 (09)  “higher education and health care”

______________________________________

The voice of the LSU Tigers, Jim Hawthorne, has announced he will retire following 2015-16 basketball season. Hawthorne has been calling LSU sporting events for 35 years. The Anacoco native says it’s been a blessing, but he’s ready to move into a new phase of his life

Cut 14 (12)  “with him”

During his career, he’s been on the mic for LSU’s three Final four appearances, two national titles in football and all six of LSU’s national championships in baseball. Hawthorne says it’s been quite a ride

Cut 15  (10)  “collegiate sports”

Hawthorne started calling LSU basketball games in 1979 and later became the voice of the Tigers in football and baseball as well. The Northwestern State grad says he never thought his broadcasting career would turn out the way it did…

Cut 16  (11)  “from there”

______________________________________

The Powerball jackpot has grown to a gigantic $500 million for tonight’s drawing. Have you thought about what you’d do if you win? Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (29) “reporting”

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

The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s office says a three year old child is dead after she accidentally shot herself with one of the family’s guns. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

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

A Houma man is under arrest after four new born puppies were found dead in a home, one with a severed head. Police Chief Todd Duplantis says 52-year-old Richie Kiffe (KEEF) is the live-in boyfriend of the woman who owned the puppies. He says the woman and Kiffe got into an argument and the woman left the home to calm down…

CUT 3 (05)  “had been severed”

When the woman returned home, she found that one of the puppies heads had been severed. She says the puppies were alive and well when she left the residence. When authorities arrived they questioned Kiffe who denied any knowledge of the incident because he was sleeping and admitted he was drunk. Duplantis says the woman continued to search for the other puppies…

CUT 4 (11)  “missing head”

The other three puppies were found deceased in a plastic bag under the sofa. The owner reported that the puppies were born on January 27th. Kiffe was arrested, charged with four counts of aggravated cruelty to animals. Duplantis says, if convicted, Kiffe is facing some serious jail time… (Kiffe faces up to 40 years in prison, if convicted on all charges.)

CUT 5 (05)  “years on this”

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

The Powerball jackpot has grown to a gigantic $500 million for tonight’s drawing. This jackpot has been growing since November 29th. These residents have a good idea of what they’ll do if they wind up with all six winning numbers…

CUT 6 (07)  “start living”

Tonight’s jackpot has a cash value of nearly $338 million. The odds of getting a winning ticket are pretty slim, but that’s not stopping these residents from trying to take home the jackpot…

CUT 7 (09)  “take a chance”

Tickets for tonight’s drawing must be purchased before 9PM. There is a little difference of opinion between these residents on whether or not winning half a billion dollars will keep them from showing up for work tomorrow…

CUT 8 (07)  “with the military”

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

The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s office says a three year old child is dead after she accidentally shot herself with one of the family’s guns. Sheriff Tony Mancuso says the father was cleaning his guns and suddenly had to leave for work. He says the dad called the mom and told her to put the guns away when she got home…:

CUT 9 (09)  “it’s horrible”

Mancuso says when deputies arrived they found the little girl with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The child was transported to a local hospital where she was pronounced dead. Mancuso says this is a valuable lesson for parents in that we have to be aware of our children at all times…:

cut 10 (05)  “buy gun locks”

Mancuso says they are turning the matter over to the DA and it’s likely the case will go before a grand jury. He says for now, no charges have been filed…:

cut 11 (07) “and we’ll see”

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

Discussions continue between the Jindal administration and legislative leaders on how to prevent a 400-million cut in state funding for higher education. Senate President John Alario says one option would be to limit the size of tax credits, especially when the credit is more than what the person or business pays in taxes

cut 12 (05)  “counting on before”

Alario says this could have an impact on the film tax credit program. He says another idea Governor Jindal is proposing would be a tax break for businesses that donate money to college campuses

cut 13 (10)  “taking in”

The state faces a one-point-six billion dollar revenue shortfall for the fiscal year that begins July 1st, which could also mean large cuts for health care. Alario says reducing the size of tax credit in certain cases could help produce additional revenue

cut 14 (11)  “for the difference”

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

Research from LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans finds that a psychedelic drug prevents the development of allergic asthma in mice. Scott Carwile reports…

CUT 1 (29) “reporting”

______________________________________

Tonight’s Powerball jackpot has reached a massive $485 million which is the third largest prize in the game’s history. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 2 (32) “reporting”

______________________________________

At least 14 school districts have passed a resolution that asks the state not to punish them for students who decide not to take the Common Core standardized test. Jeff Palermo has the story..

Cut 3 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

Research from LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans finds that a psychedelic drug prevents the development of allergic asthma in mice. Lead researcher Dr. Charles Nichols says currently asthma is treated with inhalers and steroids. He says the result of this research is a real breakthrough…

cut 4  (12)  “in the mice”

He says the psychedelic drug, (R)-DOI, prevented the development of asthma in mice allergic to the condition. Although the drug is a psychedelic, the doses administered to the mice were lower than what would produce any type of behavioral effect. Nichols says the next step in their research is to see if the drug has a positive effect on mice who already have asthma…

Cut 5  (05)  “their symptoms”

He says this research has shown that psychedelic drugs produce powerful anti-inflammatory activity and that could potentially help with other health issues. There are over 25 million people in the US known to have asthma. Nichols says testing on mice will continue and hopefully a clinical human trial will begin sometime in the future…

Cut 6 (08)  “it might help”

______________________________________

What does it mean for Louisiana now that a federal ruling has been issued in Alabama clearing the way for Clerk of Court offices to begin distributing marriage licenses for same sex couples? Loyola law professor Dane Ciolino all eyes right now are on the US Supreme court which is currently considering four cases that will soon be argued…:

CUT 7 (10)  “14th Amendment”

Ciolino says the fact that the US Supreme Court has allowed same sex couples to get a marriage license in Alabama is likely a signal of the court’s intended resolution…:

Cut 8  (10)  “same sex marriage” 

Same sex marriages are against state law in Louisiana and recently federal district judge in New Orleans upheld that prohibition — a ruling which is currently under appeal. Ciolino says it remains to be seen what will happen in Washington D.C….:

Cut 9 (05)  “in June”

______________________________________

Tonight’s Powerball jackpot has reached a massive $485 million which is the third largest prize in the game’s history. The lump sum cash value for the drawing is worth $327 million according to Kimberly Chopin with the Louisiana Lottery. She says the odds of winning any prize on Powerball are one in 32, the odds of winning the jackpot are one in 175 million..:

Cut 10 (06) “smaller prizes”

This jackpot has been growing since November 29th. Chopin says when the jackpot gets this high, many people pool their tickets together. She reminds players that in Louisiana only one person or legal entity can claim a prize…:

cut 11 (11) “the funds”

Chopin says you need to get your ticket for the drawing before 9pm which is when draw sales stop for Powerball. She Powerball sales just for this current run are topping over $21.8 million dollars in Louisiana…:

cut 12 (09)  “2.2 million”

______________________________________

Over a dozen Louisiana public school districts have passed resolutions that ask the state not to enforce penalties for students who decide not take to the Common Core standardized tests. Louisiana School Boards Association executive director Scott Richard says as it stands now, school systems will receive a “zero” for every student who opts out

Cut 13 (09)  “not to test”

Richard says if a school or school system has a large number of opt-outs, it will result in a lower school performance score or letter grade, as part of the state’s accountability system. He says they are pushing BESE to have a special meeting…

Cut 14 (09)  “school districts”

BESE President Chas Roemer, a supporter of Common Core, is not calling a special meeting, but “opt-outs” could be discussed at the board’s March 5th meeting. Students will take the Common Core exams the week of March 16th. Richard says the uncertainty is not good for anyone…

Cut 15  (09)  “bubble over”

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

The Jindal administration’s $3.5 million dollar mid-year budget cut to the department of Tourism means lay-offs and reduced hours at state parks and museums. Scott Carwile reports…..

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

Sasol announces they’ve selected Louisiana-based construction contractors to begin work on its ethane cracker and derivatives project in Westlake. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (28) “reporting”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s Longest Known Married couple for 2015 has been announced by the Louisiana Family Forum. Michelle Southern reports.

Cut 3 (32) “reporting”

______________________________________

One 16 year old is dead and another behind bars after a fatal shooting in Sabine Parish. It happened at an apartment complex just outside of Many city limits according to authorities. Sabine Parish Warden Joe Dewil says they believe the two got into some sort of argument, but exactly what led to the shooting is under investigation…:

cut 4  (09)  “single gunshot wound”

The 16-year-old suspect is charged with second degree murder. Dewil says the teen victim suffered a single gunshot wound to the head and was pronounced dead at the Sabine Medical Center. He says they are being assisted in the investigation by the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s office and the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s office…:

Cut 5  (05)  “where he was found”

Dweil says 24-year-old Porsha C. Aldredge of Many was arrested for accessory after the fact of second degree murder for allegeldy driving the 16-year-old shooter from Many to Natchitoches to help him evade arrest. He says this is an extremely tragic incident for all parties…:

Cut 6 (11)  “is arrested”

______________________________________

The Jindal administration’s $3.5 million dollar mid-year budget cut to the state department of Tourism means lay-offs and reduced hours at state parks and museums.  Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne says the size of this cut is disproportionate than what other agencies are experiencing…

CUT 7 (10)  “fiscal year” 2X

Dardenne says they’ve had to close three state historic sites and layoff 106 employees.  He says no state parks will be closed due to the cut, but they will operate under reduced hours through the rest of the fiscal year.  Dardenne says the cuts left him with no other alternative…

Cut 8  (08)  “of the solution” 

Dardenne says swimming pools at state parks will not be open this year due to the budget cuts. He says next fiscal year’s budget will determine if there will be any more layoffs or state park closures. Dardenne is hopeful about the future of the state’s parks…

Cut 9 (08)  “lose the revenue”

______________________________________

Sasol announces they’ve selected Louisiana-based construction contractors to begin work on its ethane cracker and derivatives project in Westlake. Spokesman Mike Hayes says they are Cajun Constructors, James Industrial Constructors, ISC Constructors, LLC and MMR Constructors Inc and Turner Industries…:

Cut 10 (10) “that are out there”

Additional construction contractors will be announced as the project progresses. All contact information for each of the companies is listed online at sasolnorthamerica.com. Hayes says these appointments reflect Sasol’s commitment to using Louisiana businesses on the project…:

cut 11 (07) “from this project”

Hayes says construction of the complex will begin soon and they hope to launch commercial production in 2018. They predict the $8.1 billion dollar complex will create about 5,000 construction jobs. Hayes says the naming of these companies is just the beginning…:

cut 12 (09)  “bring it all to life”

______________________________________

Louisiana’s Longest Known Married couple for 2015 has been announced by the Louisiana Family Forum. Executive Director Gene Mills says Lawrence and Varrie Player of Benton celebrated 80 years of marriage last month. He says when they wed, he was 21 and she was 15…:

Cut 13 (09)  “incredible legacy”

Mills says the two both have breakfast together every morning and just talk some days more than others. He says Mr. Player goes by the nickname “Hawk” because he’s been such a hard worker in the railroads, cotton and oil industries…:

Cut 14 (09)  “will come your way”

Mills says they will be honoring Louisiana’s Top 10 Longest Married couples during a special Valentine’s reception at the Governor’s Mansion on Thursday. He says the Players are unable to travel so they will be honored at their home in Benton with family and friends. Mills says they asked Mrs. Player how you make a marriage last as long as they have…:

Cut 15  (09)  “will be okay”

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

The LSU men’s basketball team has a chance to hand top ranked Kentucky its first loss of the season tonight. The two teams will square off in the Maravich Center at six P-M. Coach Johnny Jones knows his players are excited, but they’ll need to be focus when the ball is tipped…

Cut 16  (13)  “controlled”

Kentucky is 23-0 on the season, while LSU is 17-6 and can use a high-profile victory to boost its NCAA Tournament resume. Jones understands the significance of the game, but it’s not a must-win situation

Cut 17 (17)  “our schedule”

Jones says this Kentucky squad is one of the best college basketball teams ever assembled…

Cut 18 (14) “for you’

______________________________________

This Saturday you have the opportunity to see a bulldog run at over 180 miles per hour. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

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

The Kenner Police Department arrest a Mississippi woman who was allegedly driving drunk when she crashed into a cop car two times. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (30) “reporting”

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

This Saturday you’ll have the chance to see a bulldog run at over 180 miles per hour. ARCA Racing Series driver and Lafayette native Buster Graham will debut the number 17 Louisiana Tech Bulldog Ford Fusion in the Lucas Oil 200 stock car race. Tech spokesman, Dave Guerin, says this started with a benefactor who wanted to increase the exposure of the university’s brand…

CUT 3 (08)  “so proud of”

The race, at Daytona International Speedway, is the first in the ARCA racing season and can be seen on Fox Sports 1 beginning at 3PM Saturday. Guerin says he has not seen a car in the ARCA series emblazoned with a university’s logo before. He says this is really a one-of-a-kind opportunity…

CUT 4 (11)  “intercollegiate athletics”

He says not only will you see the Tech colors on the car, but Graham, the rest of the pit crew, and everything with the race team will be representing the Bulldogs. Guerin aims to see the Tech blue and red streaking around the track more this ARCA season…

CUT 5 (08)  “racing series event”

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

The Kenner Police Department says they’ve arrested a Mississippi woman who was allegedly driving drunk when she crashed into a cop car two times. Lt. Brian McGregor says officers pulled over a 2000 GMC pick-up truck, which was swerving on Williams Blvd in Kenner, driven by 46-year-old Debra Lynn White of Gulfport…:

CUT 6 (09)  “Kenner police unit”

McGregor says once the officer’s unit was hit, he backed up and tried to create some distance between the suspect’s car and his..:

CUT 7 (09)  “of alcohol”

White was booked with DWI, reckless operation and aggravated flight from an officer. McGregor says when the officers finally got White out of her vehicle, she was slurring her words and was clearly intoxicated…:

CUT 8 (09)  “pending at this time”

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

The Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office announces a reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest of those responsible for burglarizing a Thibodaux church last week. Spokesperson Brennan Matherne says a person or persons broke into the Old Fountain Baptist Church on Hwy 308…

CUT 9 (10)  “filing cabinets”

He says those responsible broke into closets and filing cabinets looking for anything of value…

cut 10 (11)  “at the church”

He says the thieves took several pieces of electronic equipment and a jar of money. Matherne says detectives are looking for any information about this crime and a tip that leads to an arrest could be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000…

cut 11 (11) “7-4-3-3”

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

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s office says they are investigating KKK fliers that were left in several neighborhoods in the area. Lt. Tommy Carnline says the fliers have a picture of a hooded man on them and say “You can sleep well tonight knowing the Klan is awake”…:

cut 12 (09)  “feel that way”

Carnline says their detectives are working on it and they’ve also involved the FBI because it could be considered a hate crime…:

cut 13 (11)  “we’re looking into it”

The flier provides contact information. When you dial the phone number you get a pre-recorded message from the Traditionalist American Knights of the Klu Klux Klan which says they are unapologetically committed to the interest and values of the white race…:

cut 14 (09)  “and movies”

A Texas judge is expected today to officially appoint the ex-mayor of San Antonio, Phil Hardberger, along with an estate lawyer to oversee a trust fund that’s part of the Tom Benson family feud. Scott Carwile has more…

CUT 1 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

According to a new report by InsuranceQuotes.com, car insurance premiums in Louisiana rise by an average of 30% after a single claim — the 15th lowest hike in the nation. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “reporting”

______________________________________

The American Civil Liberties Union is concerned about an apparent ban on rap music with obscene lyrics on floats at the St. Martinville parade. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (31) “reporting”

______________________________________

A new CDC study shows that Americans who live in the southeast, between the ages of 30 and 74, are at a higher risk of developing heart disease over the next 10 years than people in other parts of the country.   Bruce Johnson, a heart attack survivor and heart health advocate, says the death rate from heart disease in Louisiana is particularly high…

cut 4  (11)  “African Americans”

He says nearly 250 Louisianians, out of every 100,000 residents, die from cardiovascular disease per year.  Among African-Americans, that figure rises to 266.  Johnson says, for many, lifestyle changes can lead to better heart health.  He says a lot of heart health issues have to do with lack of exercise and diet…

Cut 5  (07)  “and the startches”

Johnson says 40-percent of African-American males in the south have high blood pressure which leads to heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes.  He says if your family has a history of cardiovascular disease, then you are at high risk.  Johnson says it’s a good idea to go to your doctor and get a check-up…

Cut 6 (10)  “kind of conversation”

______________________________________

A judge in Texas is expected today to officially name the former mayor of San Antonio Phil Hardberger and estate lawyer Art Bayern as overseers of a trust that benefits Tom Benson’s heirs. Legal analyst Doug Sunseri says Judge Tom Rickhoff will likely ask these two individuals to conduct an audit of the trust fund…

CUT 7 (10)  “of the trust”

Millions of dollars are in this trust, which was created for Renee Benson by her mother Shirley Benson, who passed away in 1980. Sunseri says assets inside that trust have been frozen by the courts, so Hardberger and Bayern will help the judge decide the next course of action…

Cut 8  (09)  “of the trust” 

The battle over this trust fund is part of the larger feud concerning future ownership of the Saints and Pelicans. Tom Benson has changed the succession plan, so that his wife will own the teams, but his heirs are asking the courts to intervene. Sunseri says there’s still a long way to go in this legal battle…

Cut 9 (08)  “played out”

______________________________________

According to a new report by InsuranceQuotes.com, car insurance premiums in Louisiana rise by an average of 30% after a single claim. Senior analysts Laura Adams says that’s the 15th lowest hike in the country. She says while 30% seems high, it falls well below the 41% claim hike which is the national average…:

Cut 10 (11)  “just one auto claim” 

Adams says many consumers underestimate the consequences of making claims because they can affect your rate for years. She says if you’re involved in a bad accident especially one that involves an injury, it’s absolutely necessary to file a claim…:

cut 11 (12) “rate to go up”

Adams says everyone should use their policy for financial needs, not maintenance…:

cut 12 (06)  “out of pocket”

______________________________________

The American Civil Liberties Union of Louisiana has written a letter to the St. Martinville Police Department regarding an apparent policy stating floats in their Mardi Gras parades can’t play rap music with obscene lyrics. Executive Director Marjorie Esman says people participating in the parade reportedly had agreed to some rules about music along the route that are unclear and not constitutionally enforceable…:

Cut 13 (09)  “that would mean”

The LA-ACLU says singling out rap music as the only type subject to regulation could lead to racial profiling. Esman says they want to make sure the people of St. Martinville participating in the parade don’t have their rights trampled on. She says just because the police and the city council don’t like rap music it doesn’t mean they can ban it…:

Cut 14 (09)  “in a legal way”

The annual parade is happening Sunday the 15th and Chief Calder Hebert says it’s turned into a huge massive event over the years. He says they aren’t concerned about rap music specifically, just music that is inappropriate for families who attend the parade…:

Cut 15  (07)  “along the route”

Hebert says there is no city council ordinance regarding the banning of vulgar music during the parade and there are no plans to start arresting people who don’t follow their wishes. He says their main concern is for the safety of everyone who attends…:

Cut 16  (09)  “along the route”

Mardi Gras season kicks into full swing this weekend and Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control agents will hit the streets to curb businesses from selling alcohol and tobacco to underage persons.  Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29) “reporting”

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

According to the American Automobile Association, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Louisiana has climbed back to over $2.00 a gallon.  Eric Gill has more…

CUT 2 (29) “reporting”

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

“Powerball-mania” continues to grow as Saturday’s jackpot rises to a whopping $380 million.  Louisiana Lottery Spokesperson Kimberly Chopin says this is the sixth largest jackpot in Powerball history.  She says the jackpot could increase even more based on ticket sales…

CUT 3 (11)  “of the draw”

She says the largest Powerball jackpot, $590 million, happened in May of 2013. Chopin says it’s been a while since Louisiana has had a jackpot winner and some “Mardi Gras Mojo” would definitely be appreciated…

CUT 4 (12)  “in 1995”

Saturday’s jackpot has a cash value of $256.8 million. Chopin says it only takes one ticket to win, so please play responsibly. She reminds players that you can become a “Powerball Millionaire” without hitting the jackpot…

CUT 5 (11)  “last three years”

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

Mardi Gras season kicks into full swing this weekend with parades scheduled all across Louisiana and Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control agents will hit the streets to curb businesses from selling alcohol and tobacco to underage persons.  Commissioner Troy Hebert says his office understands that alcohol and Mardi Gras go hand-in-hand…

CUT 6 (1o)  “our mission”

Hebert says part of their mission is to ensure that everyone has a safe, fun Mardi Gras season.  He says agents will concentrate on keeping alcohol and tobacco products out of the hands of underage persons.  Hebert says during the Mardi Gras season, ATC really steps up their compliance checks of businesses along parade routes statewide…

CUT 7 (10)  “purchase alcohol”

Hebert says ATC issued 69 citations last Mardi Gras to businesses selling alcohol and tobacco to underage persons.  He says statistically they have seen a decrease in sales to minors and hopes that trend continues this year.  Hebert says it’s important that employees selling alcohol know how to quickly identify whether a person is underage…

CUT 8 (11)  “sell to them”

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The average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Louisiana has climbed back to over $2.00 a gallon.  According to the American Automobile Association, the average price for a gallon of regular in the Bayou State is $2.01.  AAA fuel analyst Don Redman says it was expected that fuel prices would increase as we head into spring…

CUT 9 (10)  “they go down”

Redman says the price of gas has increased about 10-percent over the last two weeks.  He says you can expect to find the price at the pump continue to rise in the coming months.  But Redman says the US Department of Energy is forecasting that gas prices will remain below $3.00 a gallon…

cut 10 (11)  “kind of prices”

Redman says we’re paying more than a dollar a gallon less than we did just a year ago.  He says gas prices will probably average between $2.50 to $2.75 a gallon for much of 2015…

cut 11 (07) “a gallon”

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The Jindal administration proposes 61-million dollars in cuts to various state agencies and using 43-million dollars in stopgap funds to fill a 103-million dollar revenue shortfall for this fiscal year.  Commissioner of Administration Kristy Nichols says the cuts will eliminate certain state contracts, plus museums and state parks will be impacted…

cut 12 (11)  “this point”

Nichols says the joint legislative committee on the budget will have its opportunity to approve the governor’s revised budget plan at their meeting on February 20th….

cut 13 (09)  “FY-16”

Nichols says the mid-year cuts they propose will not lead to significant lay-offs in state government, critical health services for patients will be maintained and there are no cuts to higher ed. But she says significant cuts to public colleges and health care are on the table for next fiscal year….

cut 14 (10)  “legislative session”

The Council for a Better Louisiana strongly objects to students opting out from taking the standardized assessments that’s tied to the Common Core education standards. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (31) “reporting”

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The City of Pineville is gearing up for their first Mardi Gras parade tonight. Scott Carwile reports…

Cut 2 (30) “reporting”

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There will be plenty for Louisiana to be rooting for this Sunday during the 57th annual Grammy awards ceremony. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 3 (30) “reporting”

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There will be plenty for Louisiana to be rooting for this Sunday during the 57th annual Grammy awards ceremony. There are at least a dozen locals who are nominated or who have ties to nominations on Music’s Biggest Night. Lt. Governor Jay Dardenne will be hosting the “Only in Louisiana” luncheon in Los Angeles tomorrow to honor the Bayou State and its nominees

cut 4  (10)  “Louisiana food”

There are several acts scheduled to perform including the Louisiana Grammy nominated Ledisi, Magnolia Sisters, Jo-El Sonnier and Bonsior Catin. Dardenne says Louisiana has had at least one Grammy nominee every year since the inception of the awards show except for 1960 and 1970…:

Cut 5  (09)  “world of music”

The Grammy music awards ceremony will broadcast on CBS at 7pm on Sunday. Dardenne says when they mingle with people from the music industry on Grammy weekend they also use the opportunity to get the world out that Louisiana is a great place to visit…:

Cut 6 (04)  “musicians”

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There’s been a surprise development in the ongoing Benson family feud as a judge in Texas has apparently decided to place a trust set up for Tom’s daughter Renee into the hands of the former San Antonio mayor, Phil Hardberger, and an attorney. Judge Tom Rickhoff is expected to make the official order on Monday. Legal analyst Tim Meche says this is a huge victory for Renee…:

CUT 7 (11)  “of her benefit”

Meche says now it’ll be up to Hardberger to make the decision on what will happen to some of Benson’s properties and it’s assumed that he won’t do what Tom Benson wanted…:

Cut 8  (10)  “rest of the businesses” 

Meche says Tom wanted Renee fired from various boards of companies owned by the trust, but now that probably won’t happen. He says the fact that Benson didn’t take the stand in the Texas hearing likely hurt his case…:

Cut 9 (09)  “Tom Benson”

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The City of Pineville is gearing up for their first Mardi Gras parade. Eleven floats and several marching bands will make their way down Main Street tonight. Mayor Clarence Field’s Chief of Staff, Rich Dupree, says this is something the citizens of Pineville have been wanting for many years and things fell into place for the city to put on their own parade this year…

Cut 10 (09)  “more memorable” 

Dupree says their sister city, Alexandria, has put on Mardi Gras parades for more than 20 years and many Krewe members in those parades are from Pineville. He says there are a couple of distinctions that will make Pineville’s parade stand out. First of all this will be one of the few night parades in central Louisiana…

cut 11 (10) “Taste of Mardi Gras”

Secondly, the parade will cross the Jackson Street bridge into Alexandria and end in time for the “Taste of Mardi Gras” event. The “Light the Night” parade will roll at 5:30PM. Dupree says they expect a great turnout for Pineville’s inaugural Mardi Gras celebration…

cut 12 (12)  “at that parade”

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The Council for a Better Louisiana says it doesn’t make sense for kids to opt out from taking the assessment tests that are part of the Common Core education standards. CABL president Barry Erwin says the tests measure a student’s progress and that’s important considering the state spends over three billion dollars on public schools..

Cut 13 (08)  “kids are doing”

But retired St. Tammany parish teacher and Common Core critic, Lee Barrios, says parents are frustrated with how and what their children are being taught because of the new education standards and opting out is there only option

Cut 14 (10)  “only control”

So far a handful of parents have told their local school systems their children will not take the Common Core test, which will be given next month. Barrios backs Governor Jindal, who is calling on BESE to provide an alternate test….

Cut 15  (09)  “instruction”

But Erwin says it only hurts the child, by allowing him or her to opt out from taking an exam that helps determine student progress…

Cut 16  (10)  “is performing”

The US Department of Health and Human Services reports, with 10 days before open enrollment ends, nearly 150,000 Louisianians have signed up for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act. Eric Gill has more…

CUT 1 (29) “reporting”

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Abita Brewing Co. in Abita Springs has fired back at Budweiser’s Super Bowl commercial which essentially says craft beer is for snobs. Michelle Southern has that…:

CUT 2 (32) “reporting”

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With 10 days before open enrollment ends, nearly 150,000 Louisianians have signed up for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services. Billy Justice, Director of Marketing for Vantage HealthPlan in Monroe, feels people are getting more knowledgeable about the health care marketplace…

CUT 3 (07)  “that are offered”

Last year, almost 102,000 residents purchased health care plans through the federal marketplace. Justice says almost all of the carriers increased their premiums this year and the biggest challenge facing returning consumers is going back to recalculate their subsidy…

CUT 4 (08)  “paying each month”

With only a week and a half left, Justice encourages people who are in need of health insurance to check out the marketplace. He says the plans come from private insurance companies and there are plenty of options for residents who need to sign up…

CUT 5 (07)  “for themselves”

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Abita Brewing Co. in Abita Springs has fired back at Budweiser’s Super Bowl commercial which essentially says craft beer is for snobs. Other small brewers throughout the country are doing the same. The beer giant’s commercial shows people sniffing beer and saying brews shouldn’t be fussed over. Abita President David Blossman says they are proud to fuss over beer

CUT 6 (11)  “in a certain way”

Blossman says they like to use Louisiana produce in their beers such as strawberries and satsumas to highlight what is uniquely Louisiana. The Budweiser commercial says “let them sip their pumpkin peach ale” and Abita responded to that with a video on YouTube bragging about making just such a beer once on a small scale…:

CUT 7 (09)  “to point that out”

In Abita’s video they say “We’re not a dog and pony show” — taking a jab at the popular Budweiser puppy/Clydesdale commercial. Blossman also says Budweiser suggests their beer is “brewed the hard way.” He says he has no idea what that means…:

CUT 8 (10)  “brewing is fun”

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Noranda Alumina in St. James Parish is asking the state department of environmental quality for permission to release mercury into the air, after learning they may have been doing so without a permit since they began operations in 1959. D-E-Q spokesperson Greg Langley says the refinery could be fined for releasing mercury without a permit

CUT 9 (09)  “near future”

Langley says D-E-Q doesn’t monitor for mercury releases on a regular basis, so it needs to be determined how much mercury may have been released and for how long, before a potential fine is handed down….

cut 10 (10)  “how soon”

Langley says Noranda recently discovered that they were releasing mercury into the air. He says now the company is seeking a permit, so they can operate legally….

cut 11 (10) “those are factors”

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In an effort to reduce employee payroll in the face of budget cuts, Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain is offering employees an early retirement incentive rather than layoff employees. This early retirement incentive is an effort to comply with budget cuts required to balance the state budget. Strain says his department has already seen two mid-year budget cuts…

cut 12 (06)  “second cut”

Strain says a third budget cut is making the early retirement offers necessary. This plan is expected to result in continuing payroll savings and lessen layoffs next budget year. Strain says any further reduction in staff will make it difficult for his department to perform their constitutional job…

cut 13 (06)  “is critical”

Strain says the department staff has been reduced from 1,006 in 2007 to under 540 today. He says this is their fourth layoff avoidance plan since he assumed office in 2008. Strain says despite the budget woes, they will continue to work to fulfill the critical mission of the agency…

cut 14 (08)  “12 billion dollars”

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