With a warmer winter than usual, the mosquito population has exploded in Louisiana. LSU Assistant Professor of Entomology Kristen Healy says temperature plays a lot into mosquito development. She says the insects are more active when the weather is a little warmer but rain is also factor that plays into an increase in mosquitoes…:
cut 12 (06) “for them”
Healy says with the increased mosquito population, there is also an increased risk for contacting mosquito borne illnesses.

Nearly 300 airmen in the Louisiana National Guard are deploying to Europe, and a farewell ceremony is being held in their honor on Saturday in New Orleans. Maj. Jesse Hasenkampf says the airmen will participate in critical training missions during the 90 day deployment…:
Cut 10 (08) “NATO allies”
Hasenkampf says demonstrating the United States’ commitment to NATO is a national priority.

A former-Neville high school choir teacher is facing additional counts amid allegations he was involved in inappropriate relationships with students. At least five victims have come forward with claims that 25-year-old Christian Amos provided them with weed at his apartment and requested sexual acts. BESE Representative Gary Jones says if convicted, Amos will likely have his license suspended…:
Cut 5 (11) “those kinds of things”
Amos’ charges include prohibited sexual conduct between a student and educator and distribution of marijuana.

Nine parishes are eligible for disaster assistance as a result of a recent drought, according to Ag Commissioner Mike Strain. They are Bossier, Caddo, Concordia, East Carroll, Madison, Morehouse, Tensas, Union and West Carroll. Farmers and ranchers located in these parishes are eligible for low-interest emergency loans from the Farm Service Agency.