The AgCenter scores a million bucks to study the endangered, and vital bayou roseau cane that’s being threatened by rising tides and a nasty parasite. Matt Doyle has more.
Cut 3 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”
A Denham Springs couple whose home was flooded in 2016 is suing HUD in an effort to access Restore grant money. The couple’s lawyer, J.R. Whaley, says the suit against HUD is for their inaction in correcting the issue. Whaley says HUD has offered excuse after excuse for delays in changing their rules as they were ordered to do, with HUD crediting the latest slowdown due to the recent government shutdown.
Cut 5 (07) “…is the problem.”

The FBI is hiring and wants to meet those interested in being special agents in New Orleans next Wednesday. They’re looking for those with STEM backgrounds, lawyers, accountants, and even teachers, and New Orleans field office lead agent Eric Rommal says Of the 13,538 agents in the FBI, 20 percent are female and 2,252 are from minority groups.
They’re seeking applicants aged 23 to 36, with at least two years of work experience, and a clean background. Rommal says they’ll be hearing from active agents about the benefits of the FBI lifestyle, but you’ll need to get that paperwork in early if you want to attend…
Cut 8 (09) “…event.”

Yesterday’s LSU basketball press conference once again saw interim head coach Tony Benford fielding questions on the two individuals of interest in the recent FBI wiretap investigation, the suspended Coach Will Wade and freshman Javonte Smart. Benford says Smart’s status is still up in the air as to if he will be playing in the upcoming SEC tournament.

Want to make 80,000 dollars a year and get to call yourself a special agent? If so, check out the FBI’s recruiting event in New Orleans next Wednesday…
Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

A Denham Springs couple whose home was flooded in 2016 is suing HUD in an effort to access Restore grant money. The couple’s lawyer, J.R. Whaley, says the suit against HUD is for their inaction in correcting the issue, saying many were eligible, yet not qualified for further help due to their use of an SBA loan.
Cut 4 (12) “…doing its job.
The LSU AgCenter is getting a grant potentially worth one million dollars to study the vital bayou stalwart roseau cane. The cane helps keep the bayou intact, but is threatened by sea level changes and an infection of roseau scale. Professor Roberto Diaz says they’ll use the money to run a series of tests in isolated greenhouses and out in the field.
As much as 90 percent of the total vegetation of more southern bayous is compromised of the cane, and it’s massive root system that can result in an eight foot tall plant.
Once they investigate the different strains, and determine which is best suited to resist the scale and rising tides, Diaz says they’ll work with conservation groups and other organizations to hopefully get more of the tougher variety planted in the wetlands.
Cut 11 (11) “the stress”

HUD is being sued by 2016 flood victims in an effort to access Restore grant money. Kevin Barnhart has the story.
Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart ”
The LSU AgCenter is getting a grant potentially worth one million dollars to study the vital bayou stalwart roseau cane. The cane helps keep the bayou intact, but is threatened by sea level changes and an infection of roseau scale. Professor Roberto Diaz says they’ll use the money to run a series of tests in isolated greenhouses and out in the field.

The FBI is hiring and wants to meet those interested in being special agents in New Orleans next Wednesday. They’re looking for those with STEM backgrounds, lawyers, accountants, and even teachers, and New Orleans field office lead agent Eric Rommal says they’re focusing next week on hiring women and people of color.
Cut 7 (11) “…our workforce.”

HUD is being sued by 2016 flood victims in an effort to access Restore grant money.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart ”

____________________________

Want to make 80,000 dollars a year and get to call yourself a special agent? If so, check out the FBI’s  recruiting event in New Orleans next Wednesday…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

___________________________________

The AgCenter scores a million bucks to study the endangered, and vital bayou roseau cane that’s being threatened by rising tides and a nasty parasite. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

__________________________________

A Denham Springs couple whose home was flooded in 2016 is suing HUD in an effort to access Restore grant money. The couple’s lawyer, J.R. Whaley, says the suit against HUD is for their inaction in correcting the issue, saying many were eligible, yet not qualified for further help due to their use of an SBA loan.

Cut 4 (12) “…doing its job.”

Whaley says HUD has offered excuse after excuse for delays in changing their rules as they were ordered to do, with HUD crediting the latest slowdown due to the recent government shutdown.

Cut 5 (07) “…is the problem.”

Whaley says the goal is to get HUD to follow the law and has made sure to shape the suit in a manner to not slow things down even further in the court system.

Cut 6 (11) “…of other delays.”

___________________________________________________

The FBI is hiring and wants to meet those interested in being special agents in New Orleans next Wednesday. They’re looking for those with STEM backgrounds, lawyers, accountants, and even teachers, and New Orleans field office lead agent Eric Rommal says they’re focusing next week on hiring women and people of color.

Cut 7 (11) “…our workforce.”

Of the 13,538 agents in the FBI, 20 percent are female and 2,252 are from minority groups.

They’re seeking applicants aged 23 to 36, with at least two years of work experience, and a clean background. Rommal says they’ll be hearing from active agents about the benefits of the FBI lifestyle, but you’ll need to get that paperwork in early if you want to attend…

Cut 8 (09) “…event.”

You can apply at FBIjobs.gov SLASH agent SLASH d-a-r, or you can their office directly.

Starting pay for special agents is more than double the average salary in Louisiana at a whopping 80,000 dollars a year. Rommal says if you’re selected, you’ll be shipped off to Virginia to receive your training.

Cut 9 (10) “…United States″

__________________________

The LSU AgCenter is getting a grant potentially worth one million dollars to study the vital bayou stalwart roseau cane. The cane helps keep the bayou intact, but is threatened by sea level changes and an infection of roseau scale. Professor Roberto Diaz says they’ll use the money to run a series of tests in isolated greenhouses and out in the field.

Cut 10 (11) “…example.”

As much as 90 percent of the total vegetation of more southern bayous is comprimsed of the cane, and it’s massive root system that can result in an eight foot tall plant.
Once they investigate the different strains, and determine which is best suited to resist the scale and rising tides, Diaz says they’ll work with conservation groups and other organizations to hopefully get more of the tougher variety planted in the wetlands.

Cut 11 (11) “the stress”

The cane is credited with sustaining bayous by reducing the action of waves as they crash into the wetlands.
The grant was praised by a series of state leaders, and Diaz says it’s been nice to see the growing acceptance of the threat the state would face if it were to lose the roseau cane.

Cut 12 (08) “…closer attention”

______________________________

Yesterday’s LSU basketball press conference once again saw interim head coach Tony Benford fielding questions on the two individuals of interest in the recent FBI wiretap investigation, the suspended Coach Will Wade and freshman Javonte Smart. Benford says Smart’s status is still up in the air as to if he will be playing in the upcoming SEC tournament.

Cut 13 (06) “…have him Friday.”

He also gave an update on Naz Reid, who missed the regular season finale with an injury. It looks like Naz will be in action coming up Friday.

When asked about how Will Wade is currently doing during his suspension, Benford says it’s been tough for him.

Cut 14 (11) “…a tough time.”

When asked about if he second guesses himself while at the helm, wondering if Wade would make similar calls. Benford says Wade was great with delegating and it’s resulted in a strong staff around him.

Cut 15 (06) “…lot of success.”

The gubernatorial primary is seven months from today. Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards is facing two G-O-P challengers, Congressman Ralph Abraham and Baton Rouge businessman Eddie Rispone. UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says it’s hard to say who will be in a likely run-off with Edwards

Cut 3 (10) “…candidates”

There is still time for another Republican to get in the race.

State lawmakers heard from supporters of the death penalty today, including Attorney General Jeff Landry and victims’ families, during a meeting of the House Criminal Justice Committee. Landry says the state is denying justice to victims’ families.

Cut 9 (12) “…feel the same.”

Activists want the state to overturn a 1999 law that prohibits local governments from setting their own minimum wage. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”  

Governor John Bel Edwards spoke to the state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education this morning to urge them to include a one-thousand dollar teacher pay raise as part of their public education funding request to the legislature. Edwards says the low pay is forcing teachers out of the profession…

Cut 7 (08) “…in Louisiana”

The gubernatorial primary is seven months from today.  There is still time for another Republican to get in the race. Could Congressman Steve Scalise change his mind and throw his hat into the ring?  UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says that’s unlikely…

Cut 4 (08) “…that up″
Currently, Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards is facing two G-O-P challengers, Congressman Ralph Abraham and Baton Rouge businessman Eddie Rispone.

Governor John Bel Edwards spoke to the state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education this morning to urge them to include a one-thousand dollar teacher pay raise as part of their public education funding request to the legislature. Edwards says teaching is an underappreciated profession and he wants to change that…

Cut 6 (10) “…they supported.”

State lawmakers heard from supporters of the death penalty today, including Attorney General Jeff Landry and victims’ families, during a meeting of the House Criminal Justice Committee.  Louisiana has not carried out an execution since 2010. Wayne Guzzardo’s daughter was gunned down in a robbery in 1995 and expressed his disappointment in Governor Edwards handling of the death penalty, citing Edwards had run on a platform of transparency and justice.

Cut 11 (11)   “…it’s ridiculous.”

Community activists are calling on lawmakers to pass a law allowing local governments the right to set their own minimum wages. Nationwide states and cities have been raising their minimum wages, including neighboring Arkansas.  Step Up Louisiana member Pamela Bourgeois says with the cost of living rising ever higher, 15 is a reasonable place to start in the Bayou State.

Cut 14 (11)  “…statewide.” 

Former Vikings running back Latavius Murray, who ran for 578 yards last year, has reportedly agreed to a four year deal with the Saints, likely signaling the end of Black and Gold standout RB Mark Ingram’s tenure in New Orleans.
This leaves Deuce McAllister as the reigning all time rusher, with Ingram just 89 yards behind him.
The Saints are also bringing back backup QB Teddy Bridgewater. At the combine Coach Payton was asked who he would lead the team after Brees retires. He responded “I have my guy, his name is Teddy Bridgewater.”
And despite rapidly shrinking caproom, the saints are set to visit with defensive end Ziggy Ansah.
______________________________________
The 13th ranked LSU baseball team visits Natchitoches for the first time since 2014 when they play Northwestern State at Brown-Stroud Field. LSU is coming off a series victory over Cal. In the last game of the series, freshman first baseman Cade Beloso belted two home runs. Beloso on his plan at the plate.
Cut 18 (13) so far”
Later tonight at the Fant-Ewing Colisuem, ULM will host Appalachian State in the first round of the Sun Belt Tournament. The winner will advance to play Coastal Carolina in New Orleans on Thursday night.
The SWAC Tournament also gets underway tonight, Grambling hosts Arkansas Pine Bluff, while Southern is at Texas Southern.

Seven months from today, Louisiana voters will decide if Governor John Bel Edwards should have another four years in office. Brooke Thorington has more…
Cut 1 (31) “I’m Brooke Thorington”
Former Vikings running back Latavius Murray has reportedly agreed to a four year deal with the Saints, likely signaling the end of Black and Gold standout RB Mark Ingram’s tenure in New Orleans. Reports indicated that several teams were pursuing Ingram at a price point that would have been untenable for a team with limited cap space. Murray ran for 578 yards and 6 TDs last year.
__________________________________________
State lawmakers heard from supporters of the death penalty today, one of them being Wayne Guzzardo, whose daughter, was gunned down in a robbery in 1995 and blames Governor Edwards for being excuse-oriented as to why Louisiana can’t execute inmates, while other states saw a total of 22 executions last year.
Cut 10 (13)“…to generate it.”
But New Orleans Representative John Bagneris sits on the House Criminal Justice Committee and says a life sentence is still a harsh punishment.
Cut 12 (11) “…of a punishment”
Governor Edwards responded, saying “I took an oath to support the Constitution and laws of the United States and the state of Louisiana. The fact of the matter is that we cannot execute someone in the state of Louisiana today because the only legally prescribed manner set forth in state statute is unavailable to us.”

Seven months from today, Louisiana voters will decide if Governor John Bel Edwards should have another four years in office. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Brooke Thorington”

____________________________

Activists want the state to overturn a 1999 law that prohibits local governments from setting their own minimum wage. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”  

_____________________________________________

The gubernatorial primary is seven months from today. Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards is facing two G-O-P challengers, Congressman Ralph Abraham and Baton Rouge businessman Eddie Rispone. UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says it’s hard to say who will be in a likely run-off with Edwards

Cut 3 (10) “…candidates”

There is still time for another Republican to get in the race. Could Congressman Steve Scalise change his mind and throw his hat into the ring. UL Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says that’s unlikely…

Cut 4 (08) “…that up″

In 2015, Edwards defeated Republican US Senator David Vitter. Cross says Edwards might face a more difficult challenge this time around, because Vitter was a wounded candidate trying to shake his former ties to prostitution…

Cut 5 (09)“…R column”

____________________

Governor John Bel Edwards spoke to the state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education this morning to urge them to include a one-thousand dollar teacher pay raise as part of their public education funding request to the legislature. Edwards says teaching is an underappreciated profession and he wants to change that…

Cut 6 (10) “…they supported.”

Edwards has made teacher pay raises his number one priority in the upcoming legislative session, because teacher salaries have fallen below the Southern Regional Average. He says the low pay is forcing teachers out of the profession…

Cut 7 (08) “…in Louisiana”

Edwards is also proposing a 500-dollar increase in pay for school support workers and if re-elected the governor pledges to push for additional raises…

Cut 8 (08) “…just a start.”

BESE is expected to officially endorse tomorrow the governor’s plan for a teacher pay hike.

_______________________

State lawmakers heard from supporters of the death penalty today, including Attorney General Jeff Landry and victims’ families, during a meeting of the House Criminal Justice Committee.  Louisiana has not carried out an execution since 2010. Landry says the state is denying justice to victims’ families.

Cut 9 (12) “…feel the same.”

Landry said he’d be happy to work with lawmakers in an effort to restart executions.

Wayne Guzzardo’s daughter, was gunned down in a robbery in 1995 and blames Governor Edwards for being excuse-oriented as to why Louisiana can’t execute inmates, while other states saw a total of 22 executions last year.

Cut 10 (13)“…to generate it.”

Guzzardo expressed his disappointment in Governor Edwards handling of the death penalty, citing Edwards had run on a platform of transparency and justice.

Cut 11 (11)   “…it’s ridiculous.”

New Orleans Representative John Bagneris sits on the House Criminal Justice Committee and says a life sentence is still a harsh punishment.

Cut 12 (11)   “…of a punishment”

_____________________________

Community activists are calling on lawmakers to pass a law allowing local governments the right to set their own minimum wages. Step Up Louisiana member Pamela Bourgeois says such a move would empower local municipalities to raise the 7.25 minimum, and reinvigorate their economies by putting more money in a larger number of peoples hands.

Cut 13 (10) “…once were” 

A 1999 law bars local municipalities from setting pay and benefit standards, instead leaving that up to the state.

Nationwide states and cities have been raising their minimum wages, including neighboring Arkansas, which will land at 11 dollars an hour by 2021. Cities like Seattle and New York have adopted 15 an hour minimums, and Bourgeois says with the cost of living rising ever higher, 15 is a reasonable place to start in the Bayou State.

Cut 14 (11)  “…statewide.” 

California, Illinois, New Jersey, and Massachusetts have adopted a 15 dollar an hour state minimum wage that will be phased in over time.

Governor John Bel Edwards, who’s up for re-election this year, has backed a two year rise to 8.50 an hour, but Bourgeois says 8.50 an hour is still a poverty level wage, and with 20 percent of the state below the poverty line, cities should be granted the right to push past that if they chose.

State lawmakers heard from supporters of the death penalty today, including Attorney General Jeff Landry and victims’ families, during a meeting of the House Criminal Justice Committee. Louisiana has not carried out an execution since 2010. Landry says the state is denying justice to victims’ families.
Cut 9 (12) “…feel the same.”
Community activists are calling on lawmakers to pass a law allowing local governments the right to set their own minimum wages. Step Up Louisiana member Pamela Bourgeois says such a move would empower local municipalities to raise the 7.25 minimum, and reinvigorate their economies by putting more money in a larger number of peoples hands.
Cut 13 (10) “…once were”
Governor John Bel Edwards spoke to the state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education this morning to urge them to include a one-thousand dollar teacher pay raise as part of their public education funding request to the legislature. Edwards says low pay is running educators out of state.
Cut 7 (08) “…in Louisiana”
The gubernatorial primary is seven months from today. Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards is facing two G-O-P challengers, Congressman Ralph Abraham and Baton Rouge businessman Eddie Rispone. UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says it’s hard to say who will be in a likely run-off with Edwards
Cut 3 (10) “…candidates”