Severe weather is putting a damper on Mardi Gras parades. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (28) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Authorities have made at least one arrest in a shooting that wounded five people after Mardi Gras parade in Franklinton last night. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (24) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Mardi Gras parades will not be rolling in Jefferson Parish tomorrow. Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng says that’s because the high winds in the forecast will make conditions unsafe. 

Cut 3 (11) “…hour is possible.” 

President Sheng says if those wind speeds are high enough to keep buses and Entergy crews off the roads, they’re certainly high enough to make conditions for a parade unsafe.

Cut 4 (14) “…tents, chairs, tarps.”

Sheng says this is not a decision that she wanted to make, but the weather forecast left her with no other choice.

Cut 5 (14) “…work with us.”

Parade times have been moved up in the towns of Kaplan, Crowley, New Roads and Franklin.

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The state is forecast to have its first major potential spring weather event; and unfortunately, it arrives on Fat Tuesday. Meteorologist Matt Hemingway with the National Weather Service in Shreveport says the severe weather threat begins tomorrow morning.

Cut 6 (11) “…there as well.”

Hemingway says most severe weather is forecast to move across North Louisiana, but could possibly extend south into Central Louisiana.

Cut 7 (05) “…south of I-10.”

Hemingway says to expect sever weather to move into northwest Louisiana around 9 a.m.

Cut 8 (11) “…through sunset.”

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Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain met with U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollands on how to deal with the effects of bird flu and how to get egg prices under control.

Cut 9 (17)  “…and for poultry.”

Strain also says they will temporarily allow the import of eggs into the United States to help decrease egg prices and allow poultry farmers to increase the egg supply.

Cut 10 (15) “…rebuild the population.”

Strain says there is not an overnight solution but is confident that in time egg prices should be back under control, and back to normal.

Cut 11 (03) “…gonna be riots.”

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While parades in Jefferson Parish are cancelled tomorrow due to the high winds, New Orleans is working to fit in its parades. The Zulu Social Aid and Pleasure Club and the Krewe of Rex will still hold their parades – Zulu at 7 a.m. and Rex at 9 a.m. Marching krewes and truck floats will not be allowed, and all parades must wrap up by noon. Collin Arnold, New Orleans’ director of homeland security and emergency preparedness, says the city made the most of a tricky situation.

Cut 12 (09) “…to reschedule.”

Arnold says while Mayor LaToya Cantrell certainly has input and influence, she’s not the final decision-maker in this instance.

Cut 13 (04)  “…of that decision.”

Arnold says not all floats are able to withstand high winds.

Cut 14 (12) “…wind as others.”

A pair of Louisiana representatives are calling on tariffs of rice imports. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (27) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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A new poll bodes well for Senator Bill Cassidy’s re-election bid. Sean Richardson reports.

Cut 2 (36) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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A crash in St. Landry Parish claimed the life of an unborn child. It happened just before eight yesterday morning on U.S. Highway 190 at Louisiana Highway 743. State Police say an 18-wheeler being driven by 51-year-old Albert Jenkins of Lafayette  was traveling south on 743. At the same time, a 2024 Kia Seltos was heading west on 190.

Cut 3 (07) “…freightliner’s logging trailer.”

Bourque says the Kia’s driver, who was pregnant and properly restrained, suffered critical injuries.

Cut 4 (07) “…was uninjured.”

A toxicology sample was taken from Jenkins for analysis, and the crash remains under investigation. Bourque urge drivers to always yield properly and check for oncoming traffic to prevent such tragedies.

Cut 5 (07) “…in this situation.”

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Congresswoman Julia Letlow and Congressman Clay Higgins are asking the White House to impose tariffs of up to 100-percent on rice imports from five countries – India, Thailand, China, Pakistan and Vietnam. Letlow says the U.S.’ rice industry is being displaced by heavily subsidized rice from those countries.

Cut 6 (08) “…1.5 billion in 2024.”

Letlow says these tariffs are especially important in protecting Louisiana rice producers.

Cut 7 (09) “…our rice producers.”

Letlow’s and Higgins’ letter comes just as Iraq had purchased 88-thousand metric tons of U.S. rice, completing its commitment in a 2024-25 memorandum of understanding.

Cut 8 (10) “…really concerned about.”

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Dr. Mark Johnson has been elected as the 10th president of Louisiana Christian University (LCU). The Board of Trustees approved his appointment based on the recommendation of the presidential search committee, which conducted an independent and transparent selection process.  Vice Chairman of the Search Committee Tommy Kiker says it was a nationwide search.

Cut 9 (09)  “…incredibly great candidates”

Johnson, formerly the director of the Doctor of Ministry program at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, views his presidency as a divine calling. He is committed to upholding LCU’s Christian values and fostering a culture of transparency, faith, and academic excellence. Kiker says Johnson was the strongest candidate to meet the needs of LCU.

Cut 10 (08) “…bridges with alumni”

Kiker says Johnsons official start date is set for June 1^st, but says Johnon isn’t wasting anytime and is already on campus getting to work.

Cut 11 (14) “…between now and June one.”

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Public sector workers will start seeing bigger Social Security benefit payments. Senator Bill Cassidy worked to get the windfall elimination provision and the government pension offset repealed in the last session as part of the Social Security Fairness Act, and he delivered the good news to those workers – with something a little extra.

Cut 12 (12) “…will be more.”

Cassidy said this is great news for all public sector workers hurt by WEP and G-P-O, especially the thousands in Louisiana.

Cut 13 (07)  “…that past payment.”

The effort was spearheaded in the House by then-Congressman Garret Graves.

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A new poll is an encouraging sign for Senator Bill Cassidy’s re-election bid. A new Morning Consult poll shows that Cassidy has a 69-percent approval rating among Republicans, including a 64-percent approval rating from those who identify themselves as conservative. Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says one catalyst behind those numbers is Cassidy’s support of President Trump and his agenda, including his cabinet nominees like Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Cut 14 (10) “…that, of course.”

Four years ago, Cassidy was one of seven Senate Republicans who voted to convict Trump in his second impeachment trial in the wake of the January 6th riot at the Capitol. Pinsonat said had he voted against Kennedy’s nomination for Secretary of Health and Human Services, not only would that have sunk his nomination, but it would have also likely ended any chance of him getting re-elected.

Cut 15 (11) “…contentious it’s been”

Cassidy has drawn at least two Republican primary challengers in his 2026 re-election bid.

A man who was slated to be the first death row inmate executed in Louisiana in 15 years has died. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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New Orleans hosted a successful Super Bowl earlier this month and can now look forward to hosting the Super Bowl of wrestling next year. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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A death row inmate slated to be the first to be executed in Louisiana in 15 years has died. 81-year-old Christopher Sepulvado passed away over the weekend after spending more than 30 years on death row. He had been scheduled to be executed by way of lethal gas on March 17th. Attorney General Liz Murrill said she had no plans of calling off the execution had Sepulvado lived.

Cut 3 (06) “…relevant to me.” 

Sepulvado was convicted in 1992 in the DeSoto Parish murder of his six-year-old stepson, Wesley Allen Mercer. His attorney, Shawn Nolan, blasted the state, saying the thought of strapping him to a chair and forcing him to breathe toxic gas into his failing lungs is barbaric. Murrill says what he did to that six-year-old boy was even more barbaric.

Cut 4 (12) “…hot water.”

Nolan says Sepulvado spent decades in prison repenting for his actions while becoming a devoutly religious man. Murrill says God will now have the final say.

Cut 5 (06) “…of our hands.”

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Saturday morning Louisiana State Police responded to a fatal two-vehicle crash involving a Red River Parish Sheriff’s Office patrol unit on U.S. Highway 84 near Cut-Off Road. Trooper Eddie Thomas says the crash resulted in the death of 70-year-old Ella Winn of Coushatta.

Cut 6 (14) “…lights and sirens activated.”

Thomas says Winn was traveling east in 2022 Nissan Rogue. For reasons still under investigation, Winn’s vehicle turned left and collided with the Tahoe.

Cut 7 (12) “…hospital for treatment.”

Thomas urges drivers to follow traffic laws, stay alert, and always wear seat belts, as these precautions can make a critical difference in crash outcomes.

Cut 8 (09) “…life and death.”

Impairment isn’t suspected but samples were taken and the investigation is ongoing.

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Manning Family Children’s is welcoming Houma Pediatrics and Thibodaux Pediatrics to its pediatric primary care team in March. Manning Family Children’s Hospital Physician and Chief D. Mark Kline says these two Acadiana-based clinics will continue offering expert care under the Manning Family Children’s network.

Cut 9 (08)  “…pediatric surgical specialist”

Serving over 131,000 children last year, Manning Family Children’s operates 16 primary care locations across Southeast Louisiana.  Kline says they want to expand their access to their services.

Cut 10 (11) “…who need us.”

Formerly Children’s Hospital New Orleans, Manning Family Children’s provides comprehensive pediatric care with over 600 specialists, 3,000 employees, and 30+ satellite locations.  Kline says the Manning family will help spread the word on all that the hospital offers.

Cut 11 (14) “…get the word out.”

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DOGE’s Elon Musk is calling on federal employees to document their work or resign. In an appearance on Fox News today, Governor Jeff Landry says he conducted a similar exercise when he was Louisiana’s Attorney General. Landry says he called on employees at the state department of justice to reapply for their job and explain their duties…

Cut 12 (10) “…out there.”

Landry says in his first year as attorney general in 2016, the state was facing a budget crisis and the governor at that time John Bel Edwards called on state agencies to find efficiencies. Landry says it led to a more productive Department of Justice…

Cut 13 (11)  “…the same.”

At least three federal agencies have told their employees to ignore Musk’s request. The FBI, the State Department and the Pentagon have said they oversee reviewing the performance of their personnel. Landry says federal workers concerned about losing their job shouldn’t worry, if they are productive…

Cut 14 (08) “…no problem.”

As Mardi Gras season ramps up, crawfish prices are going down and expected to keep falling.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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A Bayou Blue man is accused of sexually assaulting several girls. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Crawfish prices continue to decline as Mardi Gras approaches. Co-founder of the Crawfish App, Laney King, says the average price for live crawfish is now $4.10 per pound, while boiled crawfish costs $6.49 per pound. ..

Cut 3 (05) “…drop in price.” 

King says there was not a decrease in prices at the crawfish docks, but more retailers are opening their doors in anticipation of the Lenten season, which is increasing the supply of mudbugs….

Cut 4 (04) “…down this week.”

King says at this time last year, live crawfish were averaging $7.49 a pound, which is almost double to what we are paying this year. She says crawfish prices are are on track to be under three-dollars a pound during the heart of the season….

Cut 5 (09) “…normal crawfish season.”

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A Bayou Blue man is accused of sex crimes, including first-degree rape, against several girls. Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Captain Brennan Matherne says they started investigating a single complaint by the Department of Children and Family Services against 60-year-old Herman Dupre (DOO-pree), and they found several additional victims.

Cut 6 (08) “…reported by DCFS.”

Captain Matherne says these assaults had been going on for quite some time.

Cut 7 (11) “…of these incidents.”

Matherne says Dupre is in the Lafourche Parish Correctional Complex, and his bond is set at 525-thousand dollars.

Cut 8 (11) “…and simple battery.”

Matherne says investigators believe there are additional victims. Anyone who may have come into contact with Dupre should contact the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office.

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New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick says the city is becoming safer.

Cut 9 (08)  “…26-percent reduction”

During a news conference at police headquarters, Kirkpatrick said all forms of crime are down, including violent crime.

Cut 10 (08) “…decrease in murders.”

In 2022, when New Orleans was known as the murder capital of America, there were 265 murders. In 2023, that number dropped to 192; and last year, it dropped even further to 124. Kirkpatrick said the same downward trend is true for all other forms of crime.

Cut 11 (18) “…of 27-percent.”

Also in the last year, Kirkpatrick said auto theft dropped 50-percent.

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The Saints have reportedly hired former Chargers head coach Brandon Staley as the team’s defensive coordinator. Before he was the head coach of the Chargers, Staley was the defensive coordinator for the Rams in 2020 and NFL analyst Mike Detillier with W-W-L Radio says the Rams had one of the best defensives in the NFL that season…

Cut 12 (11) “…build around.”

Detillier says Staley was the head coach for the Chargers for three seasons from 2021 to 2023, leading L-A to one playoff appearance….

Cut 13 (13)  “…the game.”

Last season Staley was an assistant head coach for the 49ers. Detillier says Staley is only 42-years-old, but has head coaching experience and that should help first-time head coach Kellen Moore, who is just 36-years-old…

Cut 14 (11) “…have it.”

A state lawmaker estimates there are more than 12-million dying pine trees that became susceptible due to a beetle infestation because of the 2023 drought.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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A woman is killed in St. Landry Parish, and her boyfriend is the accused killer. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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State Representative Mike Johnson from Pineville says more than 12 million malnourished trees from the 2023 drought that have become infested with pine beetles need to be taken down. Johnson says Cleco and the Louisiana Department of Transportation have started the process by removing dead trees along roads and highways, but more needs to done with trees on private property

Cut 3 (07) “…when those trees will fall.” 

Johnson, chairman of the Pine Beetle Subcommittee, has led efforts to address the crisis and secure funding to help private citizens pay for tree removal.

Cut 4 (10) “…after a storm.”

Johnson has pushed for action, highlighting safety concerns near schools. He has spoken with Congressman Cleo Fields and the entire Louisiana Congressional Delegation about the need for funding.

Cut 5 (09) “…of our people.”

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A woman reported missing in St. Landry Parish is found dead, and her boyfriend is accused of killing her. A ping of Jorlany Osario Beitez’s phone led investigators to a remote area along Highway 10, where they found her vehicle burned out. Sheriff Bobby Guidroz says a deputy found a man walking in that area.

Cut 6 (07) “…he responded ‘no.’”

Sheriff Guidroz says 24-year-old Irving Cisneros Arguelles of Lawtell eventually admitted to killing her, and deputies arrested him.

Cut 7 (07) “…what we gather.”

Guidroz says Arguelles originally told searchers that he had dumped his girlfriend’s body into a lake in Eunice, but they couldn’t find it. Then, they demanded that he tell the truth.

Cut 8 (07) “…car was abandoned.”

And that’s where deputies found her body. At this time, the cause of her death is unclear. Arguelles is facing several charges, including first-degree murder, and he has an ICE hold on him since Guidroz says he’s in the country illegally.

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Southeastern Louisiana University has achieved its highest overall spring enrollment in 100 years. The university is reporting a seven-percent increase, pushing total overall enrollment to nearly 15-thousand students.  University President Dr. William Wainwright says preparatory enrollment grew by nearly 19-percent.

Cut 9 (11)  “…incoming freshman class.”

Wainwright says as Southeastern enters its second century, the Hammond-based school continues to drive the local economy…

Cut 10 (11) “…regional economy.”

Wainwright praised the faculty and staff for their commitment to holistic student education. He emphasized that beyond record numbers, Southeastern remains dedicated to academic innovation and economic impact.

Cut 11 (09) “…modify curriculum.”

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Saints head coach Kellen Moore has reportedly hired 54-year-old Doug Nussmeier as his offensive coordinator.  Host of the Locked on Saints podcast, Ross Jackson, says the hire makes complete sense, because of the relationship Moore and Nussmeier have already built…

Cut 12 (14) “…Philadelphia Eagles.”

Nussmeier is the son of LSU starting quarterback Garrett Nussmeier and Doug Nussmeier will be entering his 25^th year as a coach and he’s been an offensive coordinator on the college level, at Alabama, Michigan and Florida. Jackson says Moore will call plays, but Nussmeier will have a big role in offensive game planning…

Cut 13 (13)  “…ton of experience.”

Nussmeier is a native of Oregon, played college football at Idaho and the Saints drafted him in 1994 in the fourth round. Jackson says Moore is looking to connect with the city and having a former Saints player on his staff helps him do that…

Cut 14 (08) “…bit of that.”

Spring is right around the corner, but Louisiana is getting one more blast for arctic weather. LRN Meteorologist Bill Jacquemin…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Bill Jacquemin”

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Democrat Davante Lewis is no longer the vice chairman of the Public Service Commission after using a vulgar slang on social medial towards Governor Jeff Landry.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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CBS News contributor and Louisiana native David Begnaud is launching a storytelling initiative highlighting college students who exemplify kindness, resilience, and community impact. Begnaud introduced his vision to representatives from Louisiana’s public and private colleges.

Cut 3 (12) “…for someone else.” 

Commissioner of Higher Education Kim Hunter Reed praised the project, emphasizing the opportunity to showcase students’ impactful work.

Cut 4 (12) “…first in this project.”

Begnaud, passionate about celebrating Louisiana’s people, encourages students to nominate peers who are making a meaningful impact. Begnaud says the initiative seeks stories that inspire and unite.

Cut 5 (09) “…makes storytelling memorable.”

Know a student with an extraordinary story? Nominate them by emailing deardavid@cbsnews.com.

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Brace yourself – brutally cold weather is coming back tonight. State Climatologist Jay Grymes says that will especially be the case in North Louisiana.

Cut 6 (07) “…across northern Louisiana.”

Grymes says while it will be coldest in North Louisiana, it will dip below freezing across the entire state tonight.

Cut 7 (09) “…to the coast.”

However, Grymes says we should not see a string of days on end of subfreezing temperatures.

Cut 8 (08) “…during the daytime.”

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For seventh consecutive year, the Humane Society of Louisiana is running a program that allows the public to adopt horses used in Mardi Gras parades.  H-S-L board member Rena Sweeney says the adoption program keeps the horses from possible being slaughtered after the carnival season….

Cut 9 (10)  “…just over 120 horses.”

As of now there are 19 horses available for adoption and interest is already high. Sweeney says adoption fees range from $650 to $1,500 and the horses ill likely need training.

Cut 10 (08) “…take into consideration.”

Sweeney says photos of the horses up for adoption are available at Mardi-gras-horses-dot-com.

Cut 11 (12) “…for their family.”

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The Public Service Commission votes to strip Davante Lewis of his vice chairmanship and install Eric Skrmetta into that role. The vote was three to two, right down party lines. The move comes after Lewis directed vulgar language towards Governor Landry on social media. During public comment prior to the vote, liberal activist Melissa Flournoy says Lewis’ should not be punished for his social media post.

Cut 12 (12) “…the vice chair.”

Lewis defended himself, saying he was not going to apologize for his remarks.

Cut 13 (10)  “…sand to me.”

Lewis, who is the lone black member on the PSC, said stripping him of his leadership role reeks of racism.

Cut 14 (09) “…you to do.”

Chairman Mike Francis said the decision to hold a vote to strip Lewis of his leadership role was his and his alone.

Lewis used an expletive towards Landry in response to the governor posting on “X” that new Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F Kennedy was a major upgrade over his predecessor from the Biden administration.

A Democratic public service commissioner’s vulgar words could come back to haunt him this morning. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (36) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Two groups are challenging Entergy’s plan to build three gas plants to power a Meta artificial intelligence data center in northeast Louisiana. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (37) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Suspended LSU running back Trey Holly is expected to get a trial date today. Colleen Crain reports it was about a year ago law enforcement say he was involved in a shooting in Union Parish….

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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A public service commissioner’s words could come back to haunt him. PSC Chairman Mike Francis has called on commissioners to vote on whether to keep Davante Lewis as the vice chairman at this morning’s meeting. Last week, Lewis posted a comment on X towards Governor Landry, using language that cannot be repeated on the radio. Francis says calling for the vote is his call.

Cut 4 (13) “…as vice chairman.”

Francis says the language that Lewis used in criticizing Landry was uncalled for.

Cut 5 (07) “…what he said.”

Francis is a Republican – and a former chairman of the Louisiana Republican Party – and Lewis is a Democrat. When we asked him whether he would have taken the same action if a Republican commissioner used that same language towards a Democratic official, he couldn’t definitively say yes or no.

Cut 6 (09) “…statement like that.”

The meeting starts at nine this morning.

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Nine medical organizations representing thousands of Louisiana doctors released a statement that says vaccines “should not be politicized.” It’s in response to Louisiana Surgeon General Doctor Ralph Abraham’s directive that the Louisiana Department of Health will no longer organize mass vaccination efforts.  Professor Susan Hassig, with the Tulane School of Public Health, says there’s been push back against vaccines for decades but the results show they are good for public health…

Cut 7 (08) “…than that.”

In a memo posted on L-D-H’s website, Abraham says an individual should talk with its own health care providers if a vaccine is right for them. In a letter from the nine medical associations, they say vaccines are one of the most significant medical innovations of our time. Hassig agrees with the letter signed by the Louisiana State Medical Society and others…

Cut 8 (12) “…vaccines.”

Hassig says the Louisiana Department of Health is neglecting its responsibility of keeping the public safety by eliminating mass vaccination events. She says it could lead to outbreaks of the measles…

Cut 9 (10)  “…to them.”

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In the coming years, several new facilities will be opening at Northwestern State University. Jennifer Kelly, the school’s executive director of university affairs, says the biggest project is Alost Hall, the new main academic building. Named after former president Dr. Robert Alost, it will be a three-level facility boasting more than 73-thousand square feet.

Cut 10 (17) “…nurse anesthesia program.”

Kelly says there will also be a new fieldhouse.

Cut 11 (15) “…on as well.”

Once that new field house opens, the current field house will be repurposed into offices and other things. There will also be an innovation park through the school’s collaboration with the Louisiana School for Math, Science and Arts.

Cut 12 (14) “…their shop area.”

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Two groups are challenging Entergy’s plan to power a massive Meta artificial intelligence data center in northeast Louisiana. The Alliance for Affordable Energy and the Union of Concerned Scientists are asking the Public Service Commission to deny Entergy’s request to build three gas power plants for the facility. Logan Burke, the executive director of the Alliance for Affordable Energy, says Entergy sidestepped PSC policy.

Cut 13 (14)  “…necessarily are needed.”

Burke says Entergy did not sufficiently show that the plants are the most cost-effective option; and in the long run, ratepayers could get stuck with the bill.

Cut 14 (11) “…Entergy Louisiana bill.”

Burke says powering a massive A-I data center is not cheap.

Cut 15 (13) “…should this cost?”

Entergy and Meta have not commented on the groups’ challenge.

Two teachers and a pastor are trying to stop a constitutional amendment from reaching voters. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Louisiana and New York governors clash over Dr. Margaret Carpenter, a New York physician indicted for prescribing and shipping abortion pills to the state. Sean Richardson reports.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Just when you thought winter was over, think again. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Two teachers and a pastor are trying to get a ballot measure that seeks to rewrite portions of the constitution removed. Their lead attorney, William Most, says Amendment 2 is misleading to voters. He says whereas voters are led to believe that all teachers would get a permanent pay raise, some would actually get a pay cut. He also says the ballot measure claiming that the property tax exemption of churches and religious groups would be retained is misleading.

Cut 4 (11) “…currently are not.”

Most says another misleading component relates to trust funds for health and education. 

Cut 5 (12) “…being deleted entirely.”

Most is urging the legislature to try again before putting this or any constitutional amendment before the voters.

Cut 6 (16) “…intelligently on it.”

Governor Landry issued a statement in response to the lawsuit, saying that it only serves to deny citizens the right to vote on the amendment. He says Amendment 2 was thoroughly debated in the November special session on tax reform and was passed by a bipartisan supermajority in both houses of the Legislature.

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The Trump administration approved a major liquefied natural gas export project in Louisiana, marking the first such authorization since Biden’s pause on new LNG exports a year ago. Louisiana Energy Export Partners spokesman Randy Hayden says Louisiana should be excited.

Cut 7 (11) “…their project.”

The Commonwealth LNG project in Cameron Parish will export 9.5 million metric tons per year to non-free trade agreement countries. Hayden stated that LNG exports boost the economy, and create jobs for Louisianians.

Cut 8 (11) “…this first move.”

Commonwealth LNG plans a final investment decision in September 2025, pending regulatory approvals. Hayden says it’s a big move for all LNG plants

Cut 9 (15)  “…in LNG exports.”

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Even though Governor Landry approved an extradition order for New York physician Dr. Margaret Carpenter for prescribing abortion pills to a Louisiana woman, extraditing her may be easier said than done. Legal Analyst Franz Borghardt says the case is currently at a stalemate with the New York Governor and West Baton Rouge District Attorney.

Cut 10 (14) “…law that shields her.”

New York officials, including Governor Kathy Hochul and Attorney General Letitia James, refuse to extradite Carpenter, calling the case unjust. Borghardt says Carpenter could be arrested in other states.

Cut 11 (13) “…and facing prosecution.”

Borghardt says if Carpenter does travel out of New York state, she could end up in prison for many years.

Cut 12 (13) “…this sort of protection.”

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Just when you thought it was safe to put away your heavy winter jacket, think again – frigid temperatures are coming back this week. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says cold air will really start to come into Louisiana tomorrow.

Cut 13 (10)  “…of the state.”

And Keim says with that, the entire state will be gripped with freezing temperatures.

Cut 14 (11) “…coastal boundary there.”

And with those freezing temperatures, Keim says remember the four “P’s” – pets, plants, pipes and people.

Cut 15 (10) “…south from here.”

While it’s possible that the extreme northern portions of Louisiana could see a wintry mix, Keim says all that will remain well north of the state line.

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LSU will reportedly bring back men’s basketball coach Matt McMahon for a fourth season and increase the NIL budget in the hopes better players will lead to more wins. The Tigers are 2-and-10 and in 15th place in the SEC. McMahon was asked on Monday about the report that he will not be fired after this season…

Cut 16 (23) “…like LSU.”

LSU has one of the lowest NIL budgets in the SEC. South Carolina and Oklahoma are also near the bottom of the league and they are also at the bottom of the standings. If LSU fired McMahon without cause after the season, they would have to owe him 80-percent of his remaining salary. That’s eight million dollars. McMahon hopes better days are ahead…

Cut 17 (13)  “…2025.”

LSU’s early signing recruiting class announced in December is ranked as the sixth best in the country.

After coming from behind to beat Oklahoma on Saturday, the Tigers could win their second straight tonight when they host South Carolina. The Gamecocks are winless in SEC play, but McMahon says Carolina is better than you think…

Cut 18 (17)  “…physicality.”

Louisiana Jewish leaders are urging the state not to execute death row inmates by using lethal gas. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Winter isn’t over in north Louisiana, despite a stretch of spring-like weather. Another Arctic blast is set to hit Louisiana by Thursday bringing below-freezing temperatures and possible freezing rain.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Two Colorado men were arrested for attempting to smuggle tens of thousands of dollars worth of tobacco and  methamphetamine into a federal prison using a compressed air cannon. Grant Parish Sheriff Steven McCain says they weren’t successful.

Cut 3 (08) “…drugs into the prison.” 

18-year-old Jose Francisco Herrera Munoz, and 19-year-old Angel Gonzales Gutierrez’s plan involved launching contraband over the prison’s security fence, with a cannon capable of propelling items over 350 feet.  McCain says it was very sophisticated system.

Cut 4 (08) “…it’s very powerful.”

The Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office reported the arrests, charging both men with attempting to introduce contraband into a penal institution and attempting to distribute methamphetamine.

Cut 5 (04) “…would ave been devastating.”

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement assisted in the investigation and has placed a detainer on Munoz, as he is in the country illegally.

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Louisiana Jewish Leaders gather in front of Touro Synagogue in New Orleans to call on the state not to use lethal gas to execute death row inmates. Among them was Sara Lewis with the Jewish Federation of New Orleans, whose grandparents survived the Holocaust.

Cut 6 (14) “…of being Jewish.”

Rabbi David Cohen-Henriquez of Shir Chadash of Metairie says using lethal gas harkens back to an ugly time in world history.

Cut 7 (10) “…echo of genocide.”

Jacquelyn Stern with the Jewish Federation of New Orleans says while opinions of capital punishment varies among those gathered for the news conference, they’re all united in the stance that lethal gas should not be used as a method anywhere in the United States.

Cut 8 (12) “…on our communities.”

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Despite a stretch of spring-like weather, Winter isn’t over in north Louisiana.  NWS Shreveport Senior Meteorologist Matt Hemmingway says another Arctic blast is set to hit Louisiana by Thursday, bringing below-freezing temperatures and possible winter precipitation, especially in northern areas.

Cut 9 (13)  “…some light freezing rain.”

Hemmingway says the artic front will bring freezing temperatures starting Tuesday night in the low 20’s and upper teens.

Cut 10 (10) “…potentially at risk.”

Hemmingway says the cold front may linger for several days, delaying any return to warmer temperatures, but should warm up by the end of the week.

Cut 11 (10) “…closer to 60.”

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The grandparents of one of the victims of the terror attack on Bourbon Street were killed by an alleged drunk driver over the weekend. Hubert and Victoria Gauthreaux (GO-trow) were the grandparents of 21-year-old Hubert Gauthreaux the Third, who was one of 14 people killed in the attack early New Year’s Day. Gretna Deputy Police Chief Jason DiMarco says it’s another tragedy for the Gauthreaux family.

Cut 12 (09) “…they’re going through.”

Deputy Chief DiMarco says 33-year-old Stephan Juarez hit the couple as they were trying to leave their parked vehicle. He says Juarez is facing a slew of charges, all of which when combined could land him in prison for the rest of his life.

Cut 13 (11)  “…no seatbelt.”

DiMarco says the investigation is ongoing, including determining Juarez’s blood-alcohol level. He says they’re also working to determine exactly how fast he was going, although it’s obvious that he was going way too fast.

Cut 14 (09) “…in that area.”

For the third Valentine’s Day in a row, the Louisiana Family Forum is recognizing a New Orleans husband and wife as the state’s longest known married couple. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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A local advocacy group is speaking out against the Department of Health’s new approach to vaccines. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Louisiana Family Forum has named Mr. Ira Milan and Mrs. Margery Milan of New Orleans as Louisiana’s Longest Married Couple for the third straight year, celebrating 83 years of marriage. LFF President Gene Mills says it’s tough staying at the top of the leaderboard.

Cut 3 (14) “…on a daily basis.” 

Mills says they will be inducted into LFF’s 2025 Marriage Hall of Fame alongside nine other honored couples.

Cut 4 (11) “…very competitive division.”

Mills praised the couple’s dedication, emphasizing that lifelong marriage remains a source of joy, health, and community strength.

Cut 5 (10) “…and a successful marriage.”

You can see the full list of couples at la-family-forum-dot-org

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We could be in for some severe weather Saturday. State Climatologist Jay Grymes says most of the state will be at an enhanced risk for severe weather.

Cut 6 (11) “…of itself.”

We had a round of severe weather earlier in the week. Grymes says what Mother Nature has in store for Saturday could top that.

Cut 7 (13) “…fuel the storms.”

Grymes says the northern half of the state could see thunderstorms, damaging winds, large hail and tornadoes. He says the southern half of the state could also see some severe weather.

Cut 8 (11) “…to the coast.”

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An advocacy group is speaking out against the Louisiana Department of Health over its ending of mass vaccination clinics and its directive that staffers not promote seasonal vaccines. Dr. Jennifer Herricks with the group Louisiana Families for Vaccines, says the department is taking a dangerous approach.

Cut 9 (12)  “…misrepresent basic facts.”

In a letter posted onto the department’s website, Surgeon General Ralph Abraham and Deputy Surgeon General Wyche Coleman took aim at the rollout of COVID vaccines, saying that they were mandated despite having no third-party benefit in terms of reduced transmission. Dr. Herricks says Abraham and Coleman are misleading people with that claim.

Cut 10 (10) “…risk of transmission.”

Herricks also takes exception to Abraham’s and Coleman’s assertion that vaccines may benefit some and cause harm to others.

Cut 11 (11) “…long-term harm.”

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Natchitoches Parish is reeling over Thursday’s announcement that International Paper is closing its Red River containerboard mill in Campti. 300 permanent jobs will go away when the facility ceases operations in April. Economic developer Jon Maynard, who is a Natchitoches native, says closure of the mill will increase unemployment and reduce local spending…

Cut 12 (13) “…people themselves.”

Maynard says Natchitoches Parish’s economy was already suffering an economic decline that began 20 years ago…

Cut 13 (11)  “…high poverty levels.”

Maynard says adding to Natchitoches Parish’s economic troubles is the 16-percent decline in employment since 2019 at Northwestern State and a declining Natchitoches-based student population. He says for Natchitoches to reverse it’s downward trend, it needs to fully embrace itself as a college town and attract more students back to campus…

Cut 14 (13) “…or another”

Maynard says more  Northwestern State students living in Natchitoches would increase consumer spending, lead to greater housing demand and job creation.