The House approves a $48 billion budget for the next fiscal year and according to The Louisiana Illuminator, it contains about 40-million dollars’ worth of pet projects. Appropriations Chair Jack McFarland says they are for worthy initiatives…

Cut 12 (12) “…do that.” 

$166 million is earmarked for teacher bonus pay.

A new Jimmie Davis Bridge over the Red River is coming to Bossier and Caddo Parishes. The project is slated to start this month and take about two and a half years. DOTD Spokesperson Erin Buchanan says they handed out detour maps and construction phasing information, so there won’t be any surprises.

Cut 8 (09) “…businesses too.” 

The Saints need offensive linemen and the Black and Gold believe they got a starter for years to come. With the 14th pick in the first round of the NFL draft, New Orleans selected Oregon State offensive tackle Taliese Fuaga (Tall-ee-s-a   Foo-ah-gah). Coach Dennis Allen says it’s not every time that a team’s need matches the best player available.

Cut 3 (08) “…that time.” 

It’s a huge festival weekend in Louisiana with Festival International and Jazz Fest, attracting visitors from all over the world. But Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says it’s the southern hospitality shown to tourists that brings them back again and again…

Cut 6 (12) “…for more.”