Work begins on Wednesday to improve the Texas Street Bridge that connects downtown Shreveport to Bossier Parish. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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What will it take to end the hazing culture on college campuses?  Kevin Barnhart talks to HazingPrevention.org founder Tracy Maxwell to find out.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.”  

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Matt Doyle talked with Congressman Garret Graves, who says the national emergency declaration will not impact Louisiana flood projects.

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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Drivers in the Shreveport-Bossier City area can expect intermittent lane closures for both the eastbound and westbound lanes of the Texas Street Bridge starting Wednesday.  OTD spokesperson Erin Buchanan says the bridge which is part of US 80 was built in the 1930s and is in need of rehabilitation.

Cut 4 (12) “…bridge as well.”

During the first phase of the $6.4 million dollar project, Buchanan says the outside lanes will be closed as the contractor brings in equipment.

Cut 5 (09) “…start on Wednesday.”

Buchanan warns drivers to expect delays in their commute for at least the next year as the project continues.

Cut 6 (10) “…option for you.”

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President Trump is taking up Senator Bill Cassidy’s plan to fund additional border wall construction using money seized from drug and cartel busts at the border. This comes as a national emergency has been declared to raise additional money for wall construction. Cassidy says his legislation is good public policy.

Cut 7 (08) “…our border.”

The President is seeking to raise 8 billion dollars for the wall, and 600 million of that reportedly comes from the Treasury’s Forfeiture Fund, with houses seized funds from illicit activities. Cassidy says his solution to the ongoing border wall funding battle is a long term fix that is self-funding…

Cut 8 (10) “…one step.”

The total value of the Forfeiture Fund is estimated to be over three billion dollars.

Cassidy says estimates show only 10 percent of drugs, illicit goods, and money that illegally crosses the border is seized. He says by investing in the wall, you’ll be able to grab more cash, and create a cycle that funds even more wall construction.

Cut 9 (09) “…we confiscate″

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The recent high profile hazing case that that resulted in the arrest of 9 LSU students from incidents in the Fall of 2018 has many wondering what it will take to end the hazing culture on college campuses.  Founder of HazingPrevention.org Tracy Maxwell says it is important to remember the elimination of hazing will take time.

Cut 10 (12) “…doesn’t change overnight.”

Maxwell says the swift action taken to address the situation is a step in the right direction.

Cut 11 (07) “…taking aggressive action.”

Maxwell says she used to think those that commit acts of hazing are horrible people but has since come to the conclusion that they were people who were hazed at an earlier time.

Cut 12 (08) “…repeat the cycle.”

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says Louisiana flood control and prevention project funding will not be effected by the President’s declaration of a national emergency. The declaration allows funds to be redirected from military construction projects towards building up the southern border wall. Graves says they convinced the White House to take money from other projects.

Cut 13 (11) “…these projects.”

3.6 billion of the reported eight billion dollars the President is seeking to pool for the wall will come from construction projects.

Graves says progress on projects like the Comite River Diversion and other vital flood protection efforts will proceed as usual despite the national emergency.

Cut 14 (12) “…with haste.”

Democrats say they will challenge the declaration in Congress, where a two thirds vote would be needed to clear a Presidential veto. Graves backs the national emergency declaration, saying the situation at the southern border needs to be addressed.

Cut 15 (11) “…a crisis.”

A series of legal challenges have also been prepared, and it is likely the declaration will spend a very long time in court.

The Bayou Country Superfest has announced its 2019 Lineup at a press conference today.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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Nine LSU students have been booked on hazing charges. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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After a 2 year stint in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, Bayou Country Superfest returns to Tiger Stadium for its tenth anniversary over Memorial Day weekend.  Festival Producer Quint Davis says this year’s lineup for the 2-day festival is the best yet, and is expected to draw fans from across North America.

Cut 3 (08) “…and Chase Rice.”

Goveror Edwards was on hand for the announcement of the lineup and says his calendar is marked for the festival.

Cut 4 (06) “…100%″

Edwards adds his favorite on the lineup is Kenny Chesney, who will be closing out Saturday night.

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says the festival has a huge economic impact on the area by filling hotels and restaurants and says it’s important for locals to get the word out to friends and family across the nation.

Cut 5 (05)“…in Baton Rouge.”

Tickets go on sale a week from today for the festival that features headliners, Kenny Chesny, Florida Georgia Line and Jason Aldean.

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A nine-year-old boy is dead and his 18-year-old cousin has been arrested in an incident that Jefferson Parish Sheriff Joe Lopinto says was a negligent, but accidental discharge of a firearm. Kamone Thomas has been charged with Negligent Homicide, Obstruction of Justice, and Possession of Marijuana. Lopinto says initially Thomas told investors his cousin had shot himself, but…

Cut 6 (11) “…himself.”

When confronted by the results from the coroner’s investigation of the shooting that indicated the nine-year-old could not have shot himself, Lopinto says Thomas admitted guilt and said it was an accident that began with some horseplay.

Cut 7 (11) “…fatal.”

Lopinto says Thomas then told deputies that he panicked and hid the gun, but has allegedly revealed the location.

The Sheriff says it’s a tragic accident that could have been avoided had the weapon been properly secured and kept out of the hands of a young child.

Cut 8 (10) “…negligence.”

Lopinto says authorities are confident the incident was not malicious, and was not sparked due to any conflict.

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LSU is confirming that nine members of the Delta Kappa Epsilon Fraternity have been arrested on Hazing charges. The activities are alleged to have taken place during the fall of 2018. The hazing charges are misdemeanors despite the passage of tougher anti-hazing laws last year. Legal Analyst Tim Meche says these student’s actions must not have met the criteria for harsher charges.

Cut 9 (10) “or death”

Under the Gruver Act, felonies can also be charged if a student is coerced into consuming booze that puts their blood alcohol level of at least .3.

Gruver Act does increase the range of groups that can be found liable in the case of a hazing incident. Meche says it’ll be interesting to see if Baton Rouge DA Hillar Moore uses the new law to broaden the scope of the case.

Cut 10 (12)“…dollars”

All nine student have been booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison.

The Gruver Act flew through the legislature last year, and was publicly championed by a number of state leaders like Governor Edwards, who said they wanted to send a message with the tougher hazing penalties. Meche says that puts the student’s defense at a notable disadvantage right from the start.

Cut 11 (08)   “…extra harsh.”

Four of the students are also facing Second Degree Cattery charges, and one is facing an additional charge of False Imprisonment.

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Pointe Coupee authorities are trying to determine who shot into a home in the town of Glynn killing a young woman sleeping on the couch. Sheriff Bud Torres says no lights were on at the time of the shooting…

Cut 12 (10)   “…killed her”

Torres says this early morning fatal shooting on Valentine’s Day is a heart breaking case for his detectives to work…

Cut 13 (08) “…no apparent reason”

Torres says the only other person in the home was the victim’s boyfriend…

Cut 14 (04)     later died” 

Small business optimism is at it’s lowest levels in over two years, and the National Federation of Independent Business has a good idea as to why…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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March food stamp benefits will arrive early for those who receive the government assistance…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Matt Doyle”  

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The National Federation of Independent Business says their Small Businesses Optimism Index has slipped to it’s lowest levels since just before the 2016 presidential election, a notable drop off from recent record highs. State Director Dawn Starns says much of the recent drop off can be attributed to the last, and potentially upcoming, government shutdown.

Cut 3 (08) “…the future.”

Starns noted the 101.2 rating is still above the historical average of 98.

The NFIB state director also noted another issue tugging at optimism for small business owners was difficulty hiring qualified workers. Starns says 23 percent of members reported that as an issue.

Cut 4 (07) “…job openings″

15 percent of companies said taxes were their biggest concern, followed by 12 percent who said it was regulation and red tape.

Starns says overall compensation for workers in independent firms did increase in January, as just over a third of companies reported paying their workers more, or offering better benefits.

Cut 5 (06)“…compensation”

NFIB also reports that small businesses added .33 worker each on average for January, with 15 percent of companies adding an average of 3 workers a piece.

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Lafourche Parish Sheriff deputies arrested a 17-year-old in connection with the death of a 19-year-old who was fatally shot Sunday night when a bullet entered his mother’s home in Lockport. Jyairus Folse of Lockport was charged with the Second Degree Murder of Alton Adams of Bayou Blue.  Lt. Brennan Matherne says the suspect hasn’t disclosed to investigators a reason for the shooting.

Cut 6 (10) “…in this situation.”

Matherne says Folse has also been charged with 6 counts of attempted second-degree murder for each person in the home.

Cut 7 (06) “…inside the trailer.”

Matherne says the investigation shows that Adams was shot in the back.

Cut 8 (13) “…in this shooting.”

Bond has been set at $5 million.

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March food stamps will arrive early as  recipients should check their mailboxes for benefits on the first and second of the month, whereas SNAP traditionally arrives sometime between the first and 15^th. Department of Children and Family Services Secretary Marketa Garner Walters says the early delivery is to make up for the significant gap recipients faced due to the last government shutdown.

Cut 9 (09) “in January”

This comes as the nation awaits a decision by President Trump as to whether or not he will accept a Senate compromise on border wall funding, or reject the legislation and allow another shutdown to begin Friday. Walters says they’re keeping a close eye on the situation.

Cut 10 (10) “…guaranteed”

Walters says there’s an important reason why the benefits are being staggered over two days, and it’s to allow the most vulnerable populations access to groceries first.

Cut 11 (12)   “…the second.”

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Allegiant Air will begin non-stop service between Shreveport and the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport in Florida on May 17th. Shreveport Regional Airport Authority spokesperson Mark Crawford says fares start at 49-dollars each way and flights will operate on Mondays and Fridays…

Cut 12 (07)   “…in an hour and half”

The seasonal service is scheduled to run through Monday, September 2nd. Crawford says back in 2011 the non-defunct Vision Airlines offered non-stop service to Destin twice a week…

Cut 13 (10) “…with Vision Airlines”

Crawford says this new service to Destin-Fort Walton Beach is the eighth non-stop route offered from Shreveport…

Cut 14 (10)       49 dollars one way” 

Allegiant has flown out of the Shreveport Regional Airport for the last 13 years.

State health officials say we are seeing widespread flu cases as we approach the Carnival season.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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Addicts in Tangipahoa Parish can now turn to a source of help they may not have expected… law enforcement.  Jeff Palermo has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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According to the Louisiana Department of Health, the flu is on the rise as almost 6% of doctor visits are for flu-like symptoms. LDH flu bug expert Dr. Frank Welch says the state has seen several small outbreaks in schools and nursing homes.

Cut 3 (07) “…as last year.”

Welch says the main strain going around is a very serious strain known as H1N1…

Cut 4 (04) “…more serious type.″

Welch says while there are a number of preventative measures that can be taken to reduce the risk of catching the flu, the best protection is to get the flu shot.

Cut 5 (10) “…from sick people.”

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The jaguar that escaped his cage at the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans and killed nine other animals last summer is back on display after a half-year hiatus. Vice president of the Zoo Joel Hamilton says after the tragic breakout, they redesigned the exhibit to make it safer, and more appealing.

Cut 6 (11) “next step”

Valerio was born in San Diego in 2015, and moved to New Orleans in 2017.

The jag chewed through a fence in his enclosure and went on a killing spree back in July of 2018, before he was ultimately sedated by zoo employees. He’s been kept out of public view for some time, but Jaguar Jungle Curator Liz Wilson says the new showcase is perfect for the big cat.

Cut 7 (10) “…welfare”

Hamilton says Valerio is an important part of the zoos mission to educate the public about the rapidly disappearing population of wild jaguars and other large felines.

Cut 8 (08) “these animals”

Valerio killed five alpacas, an emu, and three foxes during the incident.

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The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine gets 11 and a half million dollars in funding to launch the Center for Lung Biology and Disease. The center will work with researchers on LSU’s campus and others to develop new understandings and techniques for treating devastating lung diseases. LSU Associate Vice President for Research and Economic Development Dr. Gus Kousoulas.

Cut 9 (09) “…competitive.″

The five year grant comes courtesy of the National Institutes of Health.

Kousoulas says the grant is a big win for both the university, and may actually come with up to 16 million in direct funding, and more from total economic impact.

Cut 10 (06) “…here.”

The grant is renewable for two additional five year terms, for more than 32 million dollars in total funding.

Kousoulas says the state is swamped with lung disease issues, and further research into the biology of how the body reacts to initial infections and fights them off will be crucial to addressing those problems.

Cut 11 (09) “…disease.”

Kousoulas says the funding will help the school establish facilities that will make it eligible to receive millions more in from other institution’s grants in the future.

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Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards has announced the establishment of Operation Angel, a program where individuals suffering from addictions can turn to local law enforcement for help in getting to rehab.  It’s called Operation Angel, and Edwards says the program isn’t just limited to his agency.

Cut 12 (09)   “…go right away.”

For those that might be paranoid that it could be a trap, Edwards says part of the program is working with the permission of the DA’s office, and those in need of help need not fear legal ramifications.

Cut 13 (11) “…with a crime.”

The announcement of the program’s launch officially took place at 10am this morning at a press conference, but Edwards says they had someone reach out for help just before it got started.

Cut 14 (04) “…getting them there.”

Edwards says all of this is done by the faith-based community at no charge to the individual.

Senator Bill Cassidy files legislation to make drug cartels pay for a Southern border wall. Jeff Palermo has the story..

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Super Bowl ratings cratered last night in New Orleans as only a quarter of households bothered watching a game many Who Dats considered illegitimate…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Republican Senator Bill Cassidy files legislation that would take money seized from drug cartels and us it to pay for a southern border wall. Cassidy says instead of having Americans pay for the wall, let it be Mexican cartels

Cut 3 (11) “…buy guns”

Cassidy says the more they secure the border, the more illicit money they will capture. Congressional leaders have been debating for weeks on how to fund a border wall, Cassidy says this legislation could break the logjam…

Cut 4 (10) “way forward″

Another government shutdown is looming in a couple of weeks, if funding is not secured for a Southern border wall. He says the Department of Treasury Forfeiture Fund averages 842-million dollars annually and his proposal is to issue bonds in order to make billions of dollars for immediate improvements to border security…

Cut 5 (10) “…go forward”

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Who Dats turned off the Super Bowl in record numbers as boycott parties raged across New Orleans. The Nielsen rating for the New Orleans market was a 26.1. LSU Assistant Professor of Digital Advertising Jun Heo, says it’s a huge drop off from last year’s rating of 53.

Cut 6 (11) “…off”

Nielsen estimates about 165,872 households had the game on last night in the New Orleans market.

National ratings cratered during this year’s 13-3 snoozer that featured a widely panned half time performance and only six points through three quarters. The 44.9 national rating was the lowest in a decade, and Heo says local resentment likely played a part.

Cut 7 (10) “…about it” (2x)

It’s reportedly the lowest Nielsen ratings for a Super Bowl in New Orleans ever, and Heo says that’s likely cause for concern at the local CBS affiliates, and those who bought air time with them, who just a three weeks ago expected a huge television audience with the Black and Gold in the Super Bowl…

Cut 8 (08) “campaign”

It cost 5.2 million dollars to air a 30 second commercial nationally, and there were 92 ads run in total.

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For the second quarter of fiscal year 2019, the Louisiana Lottery has seen an uptick in contributions to the state treasury, transferring over $53.9 million towards K-12 public education in the state.  Louisiana Lottery spokesperson Dustin Annison says that’s nearly a $10 million increase from this time last year.

Cut 9 (08) “…we had last year.″

Annison says the record-breaking Mega Millions jackpot from autumn had a big impact on the numbers.

Cut 10 (08) “…was huge for us.”

Annison says the year-to-date contributions of $94.6 million have exceeded what the Louisiana Lottery had budgeted and expected to give to the state by $16.8 million.

Cut 11 (09) “…a lot more.”

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The Baton Rouge area saw three separate fatal motorcycle wrecks in a span of less than 24 hours, including one involving an on-duty police officer. Motorcycle Awareness Campaign spokesperson Scotty Drake says motorcyclists need motorists to be actively aware and watching for those on two wheels.

Cut 12 (07)   “…not the motorcyclist.”

Drake says the death of the law enforcement officer is another reminder that motorists need to be more aware of motorcycles.  Cpl. Shane Toddy of the Baton Rouge Police Department was killed Friday after colliding with a pickup truck while riding with a funeral procession.

Cut 13 (10) “…then this.”

Drake says motorcyclists are often doing the best they can to be noticed when sharing the roadways, as well using their training to keep an eye out for those not looking for them.

Cut 14 (12) “…just see us.”

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The first batch of medical pot from GB Sciences and the LSU AgCenter has passed muster, and the program is set to begin full scale production soon…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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Patients at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital in Baton Rouge have new television programming to watch with the introduction of the San Diego Zoo Kids Channel.

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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A Shreveport woman received a 30 day prison sentence after she allowed her kids to play hooky from school for over a year.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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It’s been a long road for medical marijuana in Louisiana, but LSU AgCenter Dean of Agriculture Dr. Bill Richardson says the first batch of medical marijuana grown by GB Sciences and the AgCenter has passed testing. Advocates have voiced displeasure with a series of delays to the release date, but Richardson says it’s an extensive safety process that cannot be rushed.

Cut 4 (11) “…anticipated.”

The AgCenter and GB Sciences are partners in the effort to develop the treatment.

Last week ,reports mentioned the product would be ready available for those with a prescription by summer, but Richardson says he can’t commit to that date just yet.

Cut 5 (09) “…we hope.”

Despite passing, GB Sciences says they are waiting until they have a steady stream of product before they release it to the 10 pharmacies that have been licensed for sale.

The first medical marijuana legislation legalization law passed in 2015, and Richardson says he understands why advocates are frustrated with the long process, but says they will not allow a faulty product to be released to the public.

Cut 6 (10) “….asked for”

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Patients at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital in Baton Rouge have new television programming to watch with the introduction of the San Diego Zoo Kids Channel.  It’s a closed circuit TV adventure channel that offers family friendly, animal oriented content that’s both entertaining and educational.  Spokesperson for the Zoo, Debra Erickson, says the feedback from viewers is positive, adding parents say it gives families hope.

Cut 7 (09) “…and normal life.”

The channel is currently available in 203 facilities, 39 states and DC, and 8 different countries, including children’s hospital in New Orleans.  The channel has also filmed content at the Baton Rouge Zoo with animals native to the Bayou state.

Cut 8 (10) “…next few weeks.”

The partnership between the channel and the hospital was made possible with the help of the Baton Rouge Zoo, who will now be bring animals by the hospital.

Cut 9 (09) “…a regular basis.″

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The Atlanta Super Bowl is in the books, and it’s only five years until the big game makes it’s return visit to the big easy. New Orleans has hosted 10 so far, tied with Miami for the most. Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation CEO Jay Cicero says it’s a half decade away but they’re already preparing…

Cut 10 (08) “…2024”

The last New Orleans Super Bowl was in 2013, where the power infamous died during the Ravens triumph over the 49ers. Beyonce also played the halftime show.

Technology will likely be a bit different in five years, but Cicero says the fundamentals of hosting tens of thousands of football’s biggest fans won’t change…

Cut 11 (11) “….opportunities”

But 2024 is a ways away, and New ORleans will play host to quite a few major sporting events between now and then.

Cut 12 (11) “…final four”

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A Shreveport mom pleads guilty to improper supervision after authorities learned she allowed her kids to play hooky from school.  Caddo Parish Chief Deputy District Attorney Wilbert Pryor says 35 year old Fathimah Slack’s 13 and 14 year-old children missed over a year and a half of school.

Cut 13 (10) “…of 2018.”

Slack was arrested in November.  Pryor says she was living a questionable lifestyle.

Cut 14 (12) “…some strip clubs.”

Slack was sentenced to 30 days behind bars, the maximum sentence for the crime, but received credit for time served and is now out of prison.  Pryor says the children are in the custody of a family member and attending school, trying to catch up with their classmates…

Cut 15 (07) “…should be in.”

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Waitr has released a list of it’s most popular Super Bowl Sunday food choices, ahead of what is usually one of the busiest days for food delivery services.

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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A Cajun groundhog will give his prediction on how long Spring will be during a ceremony Saturday morning in downtown New Iberia. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Food delivery service Waitr has released a top 10 list of what people order for Super Bowl Sunday. The list is unsurprisingly topped by wings, fries, and burgers. But Waitr spokesperson Whitney Savioe says at number nine, an iconic Louisiana food makes the list.

Cut 3 (07) “…in Louisiana”

Traditional wings topped the list, followed boneless wings at 2, and reports estimate nearly 1.3 billion chicken wings will be consumed on Sunday.

And if you’re a Who Dat who’s not boycotting the Super Bowl, you’ll probably be either hosting, or heading to a party for the Rams/Pats showdown, and that means you’ll need a good spread. Savioe says once the party gets together, you can make sure everyone gets what they want, without one person being stuck with a monster tab by using the “Group Order” option.

Cut 4 (11) “dollar fee″

And while the company says they’ve scheduled extra drivers for Super Bowl Sunday, Savioe recommends placing a “future order” to ensure you get your food exactly when you need it.

Cut 5 (11) “…hours early”

Kickoff is set for 530PM Sunday.

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Saturday marks the 20^th year Pierre C. Shadeaux will exit his hand built Cajun home in downtown New Iberia as a crowd awaits whether or not he will see his shadow. It’s a fun twist on Punxsutawney Phil’s Groundhog’s Day celebration. Zoosiana Zoo of Acadiana spokesperson Lea Loftin says unlike the Pennsylvania version, Pierre will not predict the length of winter…

Cut 6 (10) “…longer spring”

Punxsutawney Phil has been checking his shadow since 1887.

It’s a tradition that was started by the Daily Iberian, and Loftin says the rat’s been pretty spot on with its predictions over the last two decades, and the Coypu pretty regularly sees it’s shadow…

Cut 7 (12) “…every year” (2x)

The swamp rat was brought to Louisiana about 100 years ago, and has since infested the bayous, eating roots vital to the marshland’s existence. Loftin says they hope to use the event to educate kids on the dangers of invasive species, but also to just throw a great party for everyone who attends.

Cut 8 (09) “music playing”

the festival kicks off at 730 in the morning.

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Anthony Davis addressed the media today, speaking on his trade aspirations to leave the Pelicans in favor of playing for a team with the ability to win more consistently.  Davis says he feels that it’s just the right time to leave the Big Easy.

Cut 9 (08) “…play this game.″

Davis says he’s working to get his finger healthy, which has kept him benched recently.  He says the conversation about leaving the Pels was a tough one to have.

Cut 10 (05) “…advantage of that”.

Davis says when he’s healthy, he’s still ready to suit up for the Pelicans and will continue on in a professional manner.

Cut 11 (10) “…I get traded.”

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Accused murderer Dakota Theriot returns to Louisiana today after waiving his extradition at a court hearing in Virginia. Theriot is accused of murdering a family he lived with in the Walker area, before heading to Gonzales to execute his parents, and then fleeing to Virginia. Legal Analyst Tim Meche on what happens next

Cut 12 (12)   “…death penalty.”

Theriot allegedly drove to Virginia to tell his grandmother and aunts “I love you, I’m sorry.”

An Advocate report earlier this week mentioned Theriot had previous mental instability and suffered from hallucinations, and Meche says if that’s true, it could make it less likely that the 21-year-old would be sentenced to death.

Cut 13 (12) “…penalty.”

The report also noted Theriot had several short term mental health stays, and a record with the police that included threatening to burn his parents’ house down with them in it.

Theriot allegedly admitted guilt to Louisiana investigators when they visited him in Virginia. Meche says that takes a lot of the effort out of one portion of the trial, but it could still take some time to have a final sentencing.

Cut 14 (10) “…man suffer.”

A survey finds that excitement over this Sunday’s Big Game has dipped.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

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 A wastewater containment wall in St. James Parish is in danger of failing, and could potentially release into the Blind River….

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”  

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The loss of excitement in Sunday’s Super Bowl is not just contained to Louisiana.  A national poll shows compared to last year, the number of people intrigued with the big game is down quite significantly.  Pollster Ron Faucheux says last year, 21% of those polled had a high interest in the game, but this year is a different story.

Cut 3 (08) “…year to another.”

Faucheux says the decline in the interest in the NFL has been going on for quite some time on a number of different measurements, and says he believes this year’s drop is tied to the NFC Championship mishap.

Cut 4 (05) “…a part in that.″

Half of those polled have zero interest in the game, which is up from 45% last year.  Faucheux says ultimately, this could be a concern to the league if it becomes a concern to advertisers.

Cut 5 (05) “…audience is there.”

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Don’t tell Pelicans Coach Alvin Gentry the NBA franchise plays second fiddle to the Saints. A recent report said one reason for Anthony Davis’ trade demands is that the Saints are more of a priority for ownership. Following Wednesday’s loss to Denver, Gentry stood up for owner Gayle Benson and her late husband, Tom, and what they’ve done for the basketball team…

Cut 6 (11) “…win games”

Gentry points to the world-class practice facility the Bensons built for the team. He says it really upsets him that people would think the Pelicans are treated like second class citizens…

Cut 7 (08) “…but supportive” (2x)

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A section of gypsum containment wall in St. James Parish holding back 720 million gallons of acidic and lightly radioactive wastewater is in danger of failing, potentially releasing contaminated water into the nearby Blind River, which feeds Lake Maurepas. The 139 acre, 30-40 foot deep lake of waste is the by-product of a Mosaic fertilizer plant. Department of Environmental Quality Spokesperson Greg Langley.

Cut 8 (07) “that possibility”

The Mississippi River is also visible from the wastewater lake.

The initial discovery was made by a farmer who grew sugar cane adjacent to the acidic pool of wastewater. A few weeks ago he noted the wall had been creeping outward, and Langley says further review confirmed that.

Cut 9 (11) “the base″

Langley says they’ve begun trying to sure up the gypsum wall with additional dirt, and are moving nearly 10 million gallons a day to other containment areas on the property to lower the pressure on the wall.

Cut 10 (08) “…right now”.

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The Diocese of Baton Rouge released the names today of 37 clergy members who have been credibly accused of abuse involving children. Bishop Michael Duca says hopes this will help the abuse victims whose lives were violated and a chance for the diocese to re-establish trust

Cut 11 (10) “the victims”

Duca says he’s heard some victims share their stories and there are no words to express the depth of their sadness and shame. He imagines today could be a difficult day for victims who never came forward

Cut 12 (12)   “…alone.”

Duca says the list is not a final piece when it comes to child abuse, but rather a foundational change in how the Church responds to future allegations…

Cut 13 (10) “…from abuse.”

Baton Rouge is the third diocese to reveal the names of clergy who have been credibly accused of abuse. New Orleans and Houma are the other two.

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A 16-year-old Houma boy is dead after 74-year-old Lawrence Legnon allegedly ran a stop sign yesterday afternoon on LA 311. Authorities do not know if either of the drivers were intoxicated, and charges have yet to be filed. State Police Trooper Jesse LaGrange says they do not know why Legnon ran the stop sign shortly before the wreck.

Cut 14 (11) “…vehicle.”

Toxicology tests on both drivers are pending.

LeGrange says drivers need to exercise caution when approaching stop signs, particularly at dusk or night times.

Saints Coach Sean Payton responded to the heartbreaking loss in the NFC Championship like many of us after a bad break-up. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Gueydan High School students in Vermilion Parish are back in class after an extended weekend thanks to a bat infestation.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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Saints head coach Sean Payton spoke publicly today for the first time since one of the darkest days in the history of Louisiana sports, the NFC Championship loss against the LA Rams now known as the Bayou Burglary. Payton says for the first 24 hours he was angry, but in the days that followed, he resorted to coping in isolation.

Cut 3 (10) “…it’s probably sugar.”

Payton says teams encounter disappoints throughout the season, but as tough as this one is, they’ll get past it.

Cut 4 (11) “…at it again.″

Payton says he’s proud of his team’s season after winning 14 games.  He adds he has spoken with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell in the time since the game, but the conversation was brief.

Cut 5 (11) “…and any statement.”

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NFL Commissioner Rodger Goodell addressed the controversial NFC Championship no-call today at a press conference, saying he understands the fans’ frustrations, and that it was a “play we want to have called”. The commish noted the competition committee will consider rules changes over the summer addressing no-calls, but…

Cut 6 (10) “…every time”

Despite admitting it was a missed call, Goodell says he’s confident officiating in the NFL is better now than it has ever been.

Cut 7 (11) “…they’re human”

Goodell noted that suggestions that no-calls should be challengeable have been met with significant resistance in the past, due to the complicated and unforeseen consequences of such a significant expansion of officiating oversight.

Cut 8 (11) “no flag”

Saints coach Sean Payton sits on the competition committee.

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The eastbound side of the I-210 Bridge in Lake Charles will be shut down for the next several month while it undergoes extensive repair work starting at 9PM today. In the meantime, traffic will be maintained in both directions, but on the westbound side. DOTD spokesperson Tammy York says drivers approaching the structure should expect some new traffic diversions.

Cut 9 (12) “outside lane″

Vehicles wider than 11 feet, 18-wheelers, and buses will not be allowed on the bridge during this portion of the construction.

York says they’ll be installing a guardrail, constructing an inspection deck, and tearing up huge portions of concrete to get the bridge ready for the future.

Cut 10 (11) “…same thing”.

York is asking the public to try to avoid the bridge if at all possible in the meantime to keep traffic moving at a reasonable pace for those who rely on the structure every day.

Cut 11 (10) “to be”

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Gueydan High School in Vermilion Parish reopened today following a two-day closure for a bat infestation.  The initial bat sightings lead school leaders to believe it was a small problem, but Vermilion Schools Superintendent Jerome Puyau says  they learned there were about 600 bats inhabiting the school.

Cut 12 (09)   “…clusters of hundreds.”

Puyau says an expert had to be brought in to identify how the bats got into the area, as well as to execute a protocol for getting the bats out, as these types of bats are endangered.

Cut 13 (13) “…cave would be.”

After surveying the amount of bat droppings in the area where the bat colonies were located, Puyau says it is estimated the bats had been in the school for the better part of a decade.

Cut 14 (13) “…open that space.”

ULM has also seen the closure of Sugar Hall as the result of bats in the buildings AC vents.

A new study shows a connection between poor sleep and plaque buildup in the arteries.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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21-year-old Dakota Theriot has allegedly confessed to killing five people during a shooting spree in Livingston and Ascension Parishes. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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A new study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology has discovered an association between poor sleep and plaque buildup in arteries throughout the body, which can cause issues such as strokes and heart attacks.  Chief of Cardiology at LSU Health New Orleans Dr. Frank Smart says he’s hesitant to say the blockages are a result of the poor sleep.

Cut 3 (06) “…cause and effect.”

Smart says while it is known that getting enough sleep as well as quality of sleep are important factors, he adds that it’s import to exercise and not be sedentary while awake.

Cut 4 (08) “…of blocked arteries.″

Smart says in the study, in one subgroup of women who got over 8 hours of sleep, it showed there was an increase in plaque buildup.

Cut 5 (11) “…and effect relationship.”

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It’s been four years since the legislature approved legislation to allow Louisiana patients who suffer from certain diseases have access to medical marijuana, but you still can’t get it. Some families are frustrated that the process has been delayed once again, this time with a treatment availability estimated at early summer. Katie Corkern is a mother of a child who suffers from epilepsy.

Cut 6 (10) “…intentions”

Since then the legislature has passed legislation expanding the number of diseases that could be treated with medical cannabis.

GB Sciences is working with LSU to grow the medicine and they say the testing process has been slow going, and last year the Department of Agriculture laid out an extensive process that would need to be followed in order for the plant to be approved. Corkern says the bureaucratic delays are suspicious.

Cut 7 (11) “…concern”

Corkern believes medical marijuana could be used to replace some of her child’s current medications, medications that have severe side effects. She says every month the state delays, is another month her child has to suffer.

Cut 8 (11) “to half”

LSU and Southern are the two universities who have put in charge with the production of medical marijuana. GB Sciences has partnered with LSU.

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Authorities say they have obtained a confession from 21-year-old Dakota Theriot, the south Louisiana man accused of killing his parents in Ascension Parish and then three others in Livingston Parish during Saturday shooting spree. Livingston Sheriff Jason Ard says Theriot is cooperating with detectives…

Cut 9 (11) “from his father″

Ard says Theriot lived with the Ernest family in their trailer outside of Walker for about two weeks, because he was kicked out of his parents home in Gonzales.

Investigators say Theriot’s violent rampage started Saturday morning when he killed his girlfriend 20-year-old Summer Ernest, her brother and father, with a single gunshot wound to the head. Theriot allegedly stole a pickup truck belonging to one of the victim’s, 43-year-old Billy Ernest and drove to Gonzales to kill his parents. Ascension Sheriff Bobby Webre

Cut 10 (06) “…motive exaclty”.

Theriot was arrested Sunday morning in Virginia in the driveway of his grandmother’s home. He’s currently in the Richmond County, Virginia jail and an extradition hearing is set for Friday morning. Theriot faces five counts of first-degree murder when he returns to Louisiana. Webre says the suspected killer is eligible for the death penalty if convicted…

Cut 11 (10) “opposed to that”

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Freezing temps will be blanketing a chunk of the state as far south as the I-10 corridor.  State Climatologist Barry Keim says tomorrow will be the most brutal of the cold temps, especially for the northern portions of the state.

Cut 12 (06)   “…points northward.”

Keim says tomorrow will be a very brisk day, saying it’s one of the coldest points of the winter so far for the state as Lousiana has only had a couple of other arctic outbreaks to rival this one.

Cut 13 (09) “…this winter.”

Keim says now is the time protect people, plants, pets and pipes.

Cut 14 (11) “…Wednesday morning.”