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.”

_____________________________________________

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.”

_____________________________________________

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

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

______________________________________________________

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.

______________________________________________________

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.”

______________________________________________________

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.”

______________________________________________________

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.

_______________________________________________________

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.”

___________________________________________________

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.”

___________________________________________________

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.

______________________________________________________________

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.”

______________________________________________________________

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.”

___________________________________________________________

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.”

___________________________________________________

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.”

___________________________________________________

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

______________________________________________________________

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.”

______________________________________________________________

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.”

___________________________________________________________

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.

Northwest Louisiana is losing hundreds of jobs as International Paper announces its closing its containerboard mill in Natchitoches Parish. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

___________________________________________________

The Saints officially introduce their new head coach. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

___________________________________________________

LDWF confirmed new captive Chronic Wasting Disease cases, raising concerns about the potential spread to wild deer. LDWF Veterinarian Dr. Jonathan Roberts says five additional positives were detected this season.

Cut 3 (10) “…detected in 2022.” 

CWD is a fatal neurodegenerative disease affecting deer and other deer families. Infected deer display weight loss, disorientation, and excessive salivation. Roberts says it is caused by misfolded proteins called prions, which have no treatment or vaccine and currently don’t infect humans.

Cut 4 (10) “…CWD in humans.”

Surveillance of harvested deer is essential for early detection and disease control.  Roberts cited a recent case where two mule deer were illegally harvested and transported from Colorado to Louisiana.

Cut 5 (09) “…imported tested  was positive.”

Hunters can contact their local LDWF field offices for sample testing.

______________________________________________________________

A large employer in northwest Louisiana is closing, resulting in hundreds of people losing their jobs. International Paper announced this morning it’s closing three of its plants, including the containerboard mill in the Natchitoches Parish town of Campti. State Representative Jack McFarland says the mill will cease operations by the end of April…

Cut 6 (08) “…so abruptly.”

The International Paper is one of the largest employers in Natchitoches Parish as it employs 300 people. It’s been in operation for 50 years. McFarland says the Louisiana Workforce Commission will help the impacted workers find a new job…

Cut 7 (09) “…left without jobs.”

International Paper is also closing a recycling plant in Phoenix, a box plant in Pennsylvania and a sheet feeder facility in St. Louis. McFarland says the news of the Red River mill in Louisiana was a surprise, but after talking with a senior executive at I-P nothing could have been done…

Cut 8 (09) “…over supplied.”

The Campti facility produces about 800-thousand tons of containerboard annually. International Paper says it needs to streamline its footprint to focus investments on facilities that will best serve customers.

______________________________________________________________

Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain says one reason for the high price of eggs is bird flu. He says that’s because there are fewer hens laying eggs.

Cut 9 (09)  “…bird flu issues.”

Strain says to keep egg prices from spiraling out of control, they have to stop the spread of bird flu.

Cut 10 (08) “…egg-laying hens.”

Strain says the average wholesale price for medium sized eggs is seven dollars a dozen; and until they get the bird flu under control, those prices will continue to go up.

Cut 11 (10) “…to meet demand.”

Some grocery stores are putting limits on how many eggs you can buy, because of a shortage of eggs.

___________________________________________________________

The Saints formally introduce their new head coach. Kellen Moore was introduced as the 19th head coach in franchise history. During his introductory news conference, Moore said when he interviewed for head coaching positions, it became apparent to him that New Orleans was where he wanted to be.

Cut 12 (10) “…that this presented.”

Moore has some recent history of coaching in the Superdome – most recently, this past Sunday as he helped lead the Eagles to a 40-22 win over the Chiefs in Super Bowl 59. He was also with the Eagles as they faced the then-undefeated Saints in Week Three this past season, in which the Eagles won 15-12, scoring all their points in the fourth quarter. Moore says the Superdome is a tough place for visiting teams to play in.

Cut 13 (13)  “…going to have.”

As for who will be the team’s quarterback going forward, the former quarterback had great praise for the team’s current quarterback, Derek Carr.

Cut 14 (06) “…in this league (2x).”

The 36-year-old Moore will be the youngest head coach in the NFL next season, but he isn’t close to being the youngest head coach in NFL history. That distinction goes to Sean McVay, who was one month shy of his 31st birthday when he took over the Rams in 2017.

Today is the day that the new Live Casino and Hotel Louisiana welcomes guests in Bossier City. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

_____________________________________________

Now that Louisiana plans on resuming executions, the first one has been scheduled. Jeanne (ZHAHN) Burns reports.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeanne Burns.”

_____________________________________________

Embattled LSU law professor Ken Levy returns to class today after Judge Tarvald Smith ruled the university violated his free speech and due process rights when they suspended him.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

______________________________________________________

February is Early Education Month, a statewide initiative to highlight the urgent need for increased investments in high-quality early childhood education. The Louisiana Policy Institute for Children CEO Libby Sonnier says this initiative features 12 statewide events to raise awareness among policymakers, business leaders, and families.

Cut 4 (11) “…looks like.”

Advocates for Early Ed Month will raise awareness  and advocate for a continued investment in early childhood education with a Social Media Day of Action on Friday.

Sonnier says with child care being essential to Louisiana’s workforce, many families struggle with affordability and access, and the parent poll results will be release next week.

Cut 5 (11) “…education that they get.”

Sonnier emphasizes Early Ed Month aims to drive policy changes ensuring all children have access to quality early learning opportunities.

Cut 6 (12) “…during Early Ed Month.”

______________________________________________________

Today is the big day as the new Live Casino and Hotel Louisiana opens its doors in Bossier City. 

Cut 7 (12) “…new and beautiful.”

Vice President of Marketing Josh Robinson says you’re immersed from the moment you walk in, with a floor-to-ceiling LED wall greeting visitors in the main entry. And they have a full staff ready to help you inside.

Cut 8 (11) “…that Live brand.”

Of course, no casino resort would be complete without a state-of-the-art music venue. Live Casino and Hotel Louisiana is no exception, and some big names will be taking the stage in the resort’s infancy.

Cut 9 (16)  “…only Clint Black.”

The doors to Live Casino and Hotel Louisiana open at eight tonight.

______________________________________________________

A Rapides Parish man could be the first death row inmate to be executed in Louisiana in 15 years. Larry Roy is scheduled to be executed by nitrogen hypoxia on March 19th. Roy killed his ex-girlfriend’s ex-husband, Freddie Richard Jr., and her aunt, Rosetta Salas. He also attacked her and her two children, but they survived. Attorney General Liz Murrill says executing Roy and other condemned inmates is long overdue.

Cut 10 (08) “…way too long.”

Attorney General Murrill says she and Governor Landry campaigned on reinstituting the death penalty.

Cut 11 (07) “…so do I.”

Murrill says nitrogen hypoxia is being used in at least one other state to execute condemned inmates..

Cut 12 (09) “…States Supreme Court.”

______________________________________________________

LSU law professor Ken Levy returns to class today. Levy was suspended after using foul language and critizing Governor Jeff Landry and President Trump during a lecture last month. Levy’s attorney Jill Craft says a state judge determined the suspension violated his freedom of speech.

Cut 13 (11)  “…for this country.”

Governor Landry called the decision “absurd”, but  Craft says divergent opinions are crucial for academia.

Cut 14 (12) “…academia is about.”

Recordings from Levy’s class revealed him using profanity to criticize political figures, but Craft says LSU wasn’t clear on the reason behind the suspension.

Cut 15 (11) “…academic freedom.”

A complaint from a student is what started the investigation into Levy’s conduct. LSU President William Tate testified it was his decision to suspend Levy. Landry says Levy’s behavior was unprofessional and the judge ignored the facts of the law and the Constitution. He expects the decision to be overturned by an appeals court or the Louisiana Supreme Court.

_______________________________________________________

Sophomore left-hander Kade Anderson will get the start on Friday when the Tigers open the 2025 season against Purdue Fort Wayne. Anderson, who is from Madisonville and prepped at St. Paul’s says it means a lot to get a chance to start on Fridays

Cut 16 (16) “…from there.”

Anderson appeared in 18 games last season, made nine starts, and finished with a 4-2 record and 3.99 ERA. The southpaw struck out 59 in 38.1 innings. He’s added nearly 25 pounds since arriving at LSU, which has added some speed to his fastball. Anderson is also working on his secondary pitches…

Cut 17 (15)  “…more often.”

First pitch on Friday at 2 PM.

__________________________________________________________________

Louisiana Tech will look to win its ninth straight home game tonight when it hosts Kennesaw State inside the Thomas Assembly Center for a 6:30 PM tip. Both teams are 6-and-5 in Conference USA Play and the Bulldogs lost to the Owls back on January 18^th at their place. Coach Talvin Hester is looking forward to the rematch…

Cut 18 (15)  “…that way”

Louisiana Tech women’s basketball is at Kennesaw State. The Lady Techsters are 6-and-5 and in fourth place in Conference USA. Coach Brooke Stoehr says there are seven games left in the regular season and still time to move up the standings…

Cut 19 (20) “…do it.”

LHSAA Director Eddie Bonine is calling on fans and parents at high school games to control their emotions. Jeff Palermo has the story..

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

___________________________________________________

Congressman Clay Higgins is asking President Trump to levy tariffs up to 100-percent on foreign seafood imports.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

___________________________________________________

Northwestern State is not only attracting new students, but it is keeping the students it currently has.

Cut 3 (09) “…we do get.” 

Van Erikson, the director of enrollment management at Northwestern State, says among first-time freshmen, 89-percent return for their second semester. Erikson says one driver of that is small student-to-faculty ratios.

Cut 4 (09) “…choose not to.”

As for overall enrollment, Northwestern State is at just over 77-hundred students, both undergraduate and graduate. Erikson says while Northwestern State will never grow to the size of LSU, they’re still looking to increase enrollment.

Cut 5 (07) “…to do so.”

Erikson says the school would ultimately like to grow to somewhere between nine-thousand and 95-hundred students.

______________________________________________________________

The Louisiana High School Athletic Association is urging parents to keep their cool in the stands. They are telling parents to simmer down or sit down. LHSAA Director Eddie Bonine says kids look to adults to set the tone…

Cut 6 (12) “…lasting impression.”

The LHSAA is investigating an ugly incident at a girls’ basketball game in northwest Louisiana last week. A mother of a Red River High School girls basketball player left the stands and verbally assaulted a referee after her daughter was ejected for committing a flagrant foul. Bonine says our student-athletes deserve better…

Cut 7 (07) “…it’s done.”

The referee may seek charges against the woman confronted him and Red River Coach Dadrian Harris is concerned the incident could result in a postseason ban. Bonine says when things get out of control everyone loses…

Cut 8 (12) “…hard for.”

______________________________________________________________

Locally heavy rain and flooding is possible this afternoon for north and central Louisiana this afternoon. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says Monroe, Jena and Winnsboro could see the some of the highest rainfall totals…

Cut 9 (06)  “…even more.”

The National Weather Service has also issued a tornado watch until 8 PM tonight. It covers the Alexandria area and nearly all of south Louisiana including, Lake Charles, Lafayette, Baton Rouge, Houma, Slidell and New Orleans. Keim says be prepared…

Cut 10 (10) “…severe weather.”

LRN Meteorologist Bill Jacquemin says a cold front is colliding with warm air, which is raising the threat for severe weather…

Cut 11 (10) “…flash floding.”

___________________________________________________________

Congressman Clay Higgins sent a letter to President Trump advocating for tariffs and stronger trade enforcement on seafood imports from China, Ecuador, India, Indonesia, and Vietnam. Deborah Long with the Southern Shrimp Alliance says the U-S shrimp industry is facing a financial crisis because of cheap imports

Cut 12 (10) “…level last year.”

There is a concern about banned antibiotics contained in imported shrimp. Higgins urged the administration to impose antidumping and countervailing duties, and enforce stricter testing protocols.  Long says Higgins is leading the call for stricter standards.

Cut 13 (07)  “…our health standards.”

Long says that compared to the E-U where all shipments are tested before being shipped and 50-percent are tested again when delivered, the U-S tests less than percent of imported seafood.

Cut 14 (10) “…for contaminated shrimp.”

Baton Rouge-based Cajun Industries is bringing 600 jobs to the Port of Iberia with a new assembly yard. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

___________________________________________________

The Saints have named a Super Bowl champion as their next head coach, Jeff Palermo has more on the hiring of Kellen Moore…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

___________________________________________________

The Port of Iberia will soon host a major development, bringing nearly 600 jobs to the region. Baton Rouge-based Cajun Industries has chosen the port for its new 60-acre assembly yard, where heavy industrial modules will be built. Port of Iberia Executive Director Craig Romero says Cajun Industry isn’t wasting any time.

Cut 3 (08) “…for their customers.” 

Romero emphasized that at full capacity, the facility will employ over 600 skilled workers, including crane operators, pipefitters, and welders.

Cut 4 (12) “…gonna do a lot.”

Romero highlighted the importance of the local workforce, praising their skill, ingenuity, and tenacity.

Cut 5 (13) “…to draw from.”

______________________________________________________________

We’re getting local reaction to President Trump’s executive order halting new development of wind energy. LaRose Republican Representative Joseph Orgeron says Trump’s order does not affect any current wind farms.

Cut 6 (12) “…their construction plans.”

Orgeron says Trump is a longtime critic of wind farms, and it may be personal.

Cut 7 (15) “…along the coast.”

Orgeron says there are many benefits of wind energy, saying it helps provide an alternative revenue stream and stability, including in the boating industry.

Cut 8 (13) “…the bad times.”

______________________________________________________________

A Flood Watch is in effect for northern Louisiana due to heavy rainfall expected through Wednesday afternoon. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says much of the watch area will see 2-4 inches of rain.

Cut 9 (11)  “…the whole area.”

The National Weather Service says Monroe, Jonesboro and Natchitoches could see as much as six inches of rain. Keim says heavy rain may lead to flooding of low-lying areas, rivers, creeks and roads…

Cut 10 (09) “…risks out there.”

The National Weather Service  says there will be a 50-75% chance that rainfall totals will be greater than three inches for the area. Keim says there’s also the chance for severe weather…

Cut 11 (10) “…flash floding.”

___________________________________________________________

The Saints have named Kellen Moore as the team’s new head coach. Moore just helped the Eagles win a Super Bowl as the team’s offensive coordinator. Luke Johnson covers the Saints for NOLA.com and says it appears to be a solid hire for the Black and Gold…

Cut 12 (14) “…charismatic guy.”

Moore is only 36-years-old, but he has six years of experience as an offensive coordinator in the NFL.

Moore will have his challenges as a first-time head coach as he takes over a team where the better players are older and it’s unclear who the long term quarterback will be. Johnson expects the Saints to be patient with Moore…

Cut 13 (11)  “…they are.”

Johnson says Moore could be bringing Doug Nussmeier with him to New Orleans. Nussmeier is the quarterbacks coach for Philadelphia and Johnson says Nussmeier is connected to the Saints and Louisiana…

Cut 14 (08) “…pretty solid.”

Johnson says it’s expected former Chargers head coach Brandon Staley will be the Saints new defensive coordinator.

Lottery registration for the next round of grants the state will hand out to fortify your roof will open tomorrow at 8 AM and close on Sunday at 5 PM.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

_____________________________________________

The Louisiana Wildlife Commission is looking at extending the alligator hunting season, amid an explosion in the population. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

_____________________________________________

To address overcrowding in emergency rooms, the State Department of Health is launching a pilot program aimed at reducing unnecessary ER visits. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

______________________________________________________

The Department of Insurance says registration for the next round of Louisiana Fortify Homes Program grants will open tomorrow at 8 a.m. and closes Sunday at 8 p.m. Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple says homeowners can apply for a chance to receive up to 10-thousand dollars in grants to upgrade their roofs.

Cut 4 (12) “…grants to award.”

Temple says to qualify for a Fortified Roof grant, the home needs to be your primary residence, you have a homestead exemption, have wind and hail coverage and flood insurance. He says homeowners living in the coastal areas including the Lake Charles area are eligible.

Cut 5 (08) “…have to re-register.”

After the registration period ends, one-thousand participants will be randomly selected and notified via email. Temple says if you don’t get selected for the grant and choose to put a FORTIFIED roof on your home there are still benefits for homeowners

Cut 6 (07) “…premium on your home.”

Temple says with over 18-hundred FORTIFIED roof grants issued since 2023, it’s making Louisiana more attractive to insurance companies to do business.

______________________________________________________

Amid an explosion in alligator population, the state wants to increase the harvest opportunity. The Louisiana Wildlife Commission has proposed to extend its alligator hunting season to December 31st, beyond the current 60-day seasons. State Representative Chad Brown of Plaquemine says the state is overrun with alligators, and they’re starting to show up in neighborhoods.

Cut 7 (09) “…in our driveway.”

Brown says the alligator population has been exploding throughout Louisiana over the last half-century.

Cut 8 (08) “…in certain areas.”

That’s nearly three times the alligator population of Florida, which has the second biggest alligator population in the U.S. Brown says it’s getting to the point that it’s affecting everyone’s quality of life.

Cut 9 (07)  “…alligators out there.”

Wild reptile hunting seasons begins the last Wednesday in August in the East Zone and one week later in the West Zone. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is accepting public comment through May 1st. 

______________________________________________________

The Department of Health is launching a pilot program aimed at reducing the unnecessary use of an emergency room by Medicaid recipients. Brigadier General Cindy Haygood says Acadian Health will launch an urgent mobile care unit to patients’ homes for treatment of non-life-threatening medical conditions.  

Cut 10 (13) “…our Medicaid members.”

Haygood says part of the program involves a clinic at home, which is a proactive visit scheduled in advance to see what’s in a home that may be driving the emergency room visits.

Cut 11 (12) “…with that member.”

Haygood says from there, Acadian will work with the patient’s provider to come up with solutions.

Cut 12 (09) “…the patient’s home.”

This is a six-month program that will take place in the 12 parishes that comprise Acadiana and Southwest Louisiana.

______________________________________________________

Governor Jeff Landry says the state is ready to execute death row inmates again. Landry says the Department of Corrections has finalized an updated execution protocol, including procedures for nitrogen hypoxia, which the state legislature approved last year.  Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says capital punishment has always been a controversial issue

Cut 13 (08)  “…against it.”

2010 was the last time the state carried out an execution. The inability to get the drugs to carry out the execution is a major reason why the state has not had an execution in over a decade. Former Governor John Bel Edwards also opposed the death penalty. Pinsonat says one of Landry’s campaign promises was to resume executions…

Cut 14 (10) “…think it shouldn’t.”

Based on reports last year, 58 people are on death row. Landry says their death sentences have been affirmed by the courts and he’s calling for local DA’s to finalize their cases so the state can move forward with carrying out their penalties. Pinsonat says it will be a big deal if an execution takes place at Angola…

Cut 15 (08) “…happen that often.”

______________________________________________________________

Matt Deggs is set to begin his sixth season as the head baseball coach of the Ragin Cajuns. U-L Lafayette won the Sun Belt regular season title last year, and Deggs says he brings back a good group from that team, plus some exciting freshmen…

Cut 16 (23) “…Owen Galt.”

U-L Lafayette returns freshman All-American pitcher Chase Morgan, who is the Sun Belt Preseason Pitcher of the Year. Deggs says Morgan has excellent stuff…

Cut 17 (08)  “…with it.”

_________________________________________________________________

LSU baseball has a stacked outfield in 2025. Coach Jay Johnson says he has as many as eight guys who can start in the outfield including sophomore Jake Brown, who hit .264 during his campaign…

Cut 18 (18)  “…with that.”

There’s the possibility of hurt feelings for those who struggle to get regular at-bats. But Brown says everyone is pulling for each other…

Cut 19 (22) “…for us.”

New Orleans has just hosted its 11th Super Bowl and is now looking to host a 12th. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

___________________________________________________

Kenner Police release new evidence in last week’s death of Kansas City sports reporter Adan Manzano, who was in New Orleans to cover the Super Bowl.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Sean Richardson”

___________________________________________________

Super Bowl 59 is in the books; now the NFL is looking ahead to Super Bowl 60, which will be played in Santa Clara, California, the home of the San Francisco 49ers. Mark Romig, the chief marketing officer of New Orleans and Company, says the Bay Area will have a tough act to follow.

Cut 3 (09) “…the previous one.” 

Romig says the city has gotten great feedback on its performance in hosting Super Bowl 59

Cut 4 (11) “…built to host.”

Romig says New Orleans literally welcomed the world to the city.

Cut 5 (12) “…around the world.”

Romig says New Orleans will be bidding to host another Super Bowl, but the earliest that can happen is 2030. After Santa Clara, the next two Super Bowls after that will be in Los Angeles and Atlanta, and the 2029 Super Bowl would coincide with Mardi Gras.

______________________________________________________________

Kenner Police have uncovered additional evidence linking Danette Colbert of Slidell to the suspicious death of Kansas City sports reporter Adan Manzano. Manzano was found unresponsive in a Kenner hotel room and later pronounced dead. Police Chief Keith Conley says they seized three cell phones were seized…

Cut 6 (08) “…some nature.”

Security footage from Project NOLA shows Colbert with Manzano together in the Quarter and later leaving his hotel room alone. Conley says more potential victims of Colbert have contacted Kenner PD claiming Colbert victimized them.

Cut 7 (06) “…strengthen our case”

Pending further investigation and toxicology results, charges could be upgraded to homicide. Forensic experts are now assisting in the case, and Conley expects toxicology reports to take several weeks.

Cut 8 (11) “…natural causes.”

______________________________________________________________

Lafayette Police say a murder-suicide happened on Johnston Street last night and the couple’s two children were present in the vehicle.  Corporal Ashley Wood says the two victims from New Iberia were found in a white SUV, 47-year-old Shentell Brown and her husband 60-year-old Kevin Brown

Cut 9 (05)  “…multiple times.”

Wood says she died from her wounds and then Brown turns the gun on himself.

Cut 10 (03) “…local hospital.”

Wood says two children in the backseat exited the vehicle; one flagged down a passing motorist for help.

Cut 11 (08) “…Lafayette Police Department.”

___________________________________________________________

The Philadelphia Eagles are basking in the glory of their Super Bowl title. The Eagles dethroned the two-time defending champion Kansas City Chiefs, 40-22, to win their second Super Bowl in franchise history. Philadelphia running back Saquon Barkley celebrated a birthday yesterday by winning a title…

Cut 12 (12) “…world champs.”

It was especially a big game for Eagles players with Louisiana ties. Former Saint Zack Baun returned to his old stomping grounds and intercepted a Patrick Mahomes pass late in the 2nd quarter to set up a touchdown that put the Eagles up 24-nothing at halftime.

Cut 13 (05)  “…the smart choice.”

Baun was used almost exclusively on special teams while with the Saints and blossomed with the Eagles, earning Pro Bowl honors and was a finalist for Defensive Player of the Year. He says he’s going to take time to decompress and reflect on the breakout season he had.

Cut 14 (10) “…it’s crazy.”

DeVonta Smith from Amite High School caught a 46-yard touchdown pass in the 3rd quarter that, for all intents and purposes, put the game away. And former Louisiana Tech Bulldog Milton Williams forced a fumble when he sacked Patrick Mahomes in the 4th quarter and recovered that fumble.