Two trucking companies involved in the fatal Florida interstate crash that killed five Marksville children are being sued…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival is celebrating 50 years with a star-studded lineup.  Kevin Barnhart has the details.

Cut 2 (28) “Im Kevin Barnhart”  

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The family of one of the Marksville children who died in a fiery interstate calamity outside of Gainesville, Florida has hired an attorney to pursue damages against the two truckers and companies involved in the crash that killed five children. Attorney Joe Fried says his office is conducting its own investigation into the tragedy.

Cut 3 (10) “…discovered”

Eagles Express Lines and New Prime, have been named in the suit, along with their two drivers who died in the crash. Fried says they hope to recover damages for the family of 14-year-old Jeremiah Wright, against one, or all of the parties involved.

Cut 4 (10) “…the investigation″

Reports several days after the wreck noted one of the drivers had been cited several times for his driving, but Fried says it’s too early to confirm that information.

Fried says he’s interested in getting a close look at the history of the companies, and safety policies at both of the trucking corporations involved. He says hopefully if there are systemic safety issues at one or both of the companies, the suit can force the companies to address them.

Cut 5 (10) “…happen”

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The 50^th annual New Orleans Jazzfest has unveiled its lineup, and it features some of the biggest names in music. Festival producer Quint Davis says there are no shortage of acts to grab the attention of festival enthusiasts. Pop superstar Katy Perry will perform during the first weekend of the festival and a legendary act rumored is now confirmed….

Cut 6 (07) “…The Rolling Stones.”

While the clear cut headliner is The Rolling Stones, Davis explains the undercard isn’t too bad either.

Cut 7 (11) “…Trombone Shorty.”

Davis says the rest of the US tour for the Stones has been sold out for months, but says locals will get the first opportunity to buy tickets this week.

Cut 8 (13) “…for only Louisianians.”

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When asked which teams she’d like to welcome to Atlanta for the Super Bowl, Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms says “Just anybody other than the Saints. If it can’t be the Falcons, then hey, as long as it’s not the Saints then I’m happy.” New Orleans Tourism and Marketing Corporation President Mark Romig says it’s all in good fun.

Cut 9 (11) “…Saints.″

Bottoms also added “I know there’s going to be a bounty on my head for saying that”, as she reportedly smiled.

And if the Saints power past the Rams for this Sunday’s NFC Championship clash, they’ll be taking that trip to Atlanta. Romig says it’s a wonderful city, and luckily for the Black and Gold Nation, easy to get to.

Cut 10 (09) “…bus services.”

Romig says the rivalry is an economically beneficial one for both cities, as fans travel back and forth, sometimes several times a year. He says if the Saints are not in the Super Bowl when New Orleans hosts again, he’d love to have Dirty Bird fans visit the Big Easy for the Big Game.

Cut 11 (10) “…New Orleans”

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Authorities have identified the 91-year-old man killed in a Union Parish house fire on Monday. Robert Jones of Marion and his two Labrador retrievers died in the blaze. State Fire Marshal spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says they are still trying to determine the cause

Cut 12 (09)   “…wood burning stove.” 

Investigators believe the fire originated in the home’s living room and the victim was using a wood-burning stove to produce heat. Rodrigue has this advice for others who use a wood-burning fireplace or stove…

Cut 13 (09) “…combustible items.”

The blaze started around 3:15 Monday afternoon. Rodrigue says when State Fire Marshal investigators arrived, local firefighters were still extinguishing the fire

Cut 14 (12) “…92nd birthday.”

As the federal government shutdown continues, the focus of food stamp recipients can expect February benefits coming this week.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (27) “I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

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If you are looking forward to trying some great new Louisiana craft beers, the government shutdown is slowing down the release of those brews. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.”  

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A Southeastern Louisiana communications professor says the 128 decibels measured in the dome during Sunday’s Saints win was nearly as loud as a thunder crack at it’s source. Fans watching the game on Fox got a little taste of that roar…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser laid out the Office of Tourism’s goals for 2019 in a speech at the Baton Rouge Press Club. Nungesser says he wants to build on international tourism. Recently, international flights from Germany and London started offering service to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International airport and bringing in more out of country visitors could mean big bucks for Louisiana…

Cut 4 (12) “…traveled.” 

Nungesser is also looking at ways to bring in more dollars to help improve tourist destinations like state parks. He says there are around 15 public-private partnerships near completion, but before they can be finalized he needs the legislature’s help.

Cut 5 (09) “…do.”

And Nungesser says he wants to keep the relationship alive between New Orleans and Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin Eve. The past three years the popular TV program featured the Big Easy on New Year’s Eve, with a television audience of 20-30 million viewers. He says the contract to have the show in NOLA has reached its end and he wants it renewed.

Cut 6 (11) “…year.”

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As the federal government shutdown continues, the focus of food stamp recipients turns to what they can expect as the SNAP program is federally funded. Department of Children and Family Services Deputy Assistant Secretary Sammy Guillory says February benefits are coming this week.

Cut 7 (09) “…100% federally funded.”

Guillory says there is uncertainty as to what happens with the program beyond February.

Cut 8 (09) “…anything about March.”

Guillory says it’s important for recipients to know these are not extra benefits and theses will be the only benefits they receive for February.

Cut 9 (11) “…these benefits accordingly.″

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The federal government shutdown is impacting the craft beer business in Louisiana as the industry is heavily regulated by the feds. President of the Louisiana Brewers Guild and Bayou Teche Brewing Karlos Knott says brewers are not able to get product labels approved during the shutdown, so some of the seasonal beers are being put on hold.

Cut 10 (09) “…back a bit.”

Knott says some of the new breweries that were hoping to have opened in the time since the shutdown, but now they are at a standstill.

Cut 11 (10) “…45 days delayed.”

Knott says the time in which a brewery only needed to release a few beers each year is in the past, so the shutdown is making it impossible for brewers to cater to the demand of consumers.

Cut 12 (10) “…shutdown is over.”

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Reports say that for at least one moment in Sunday’s Saints playoff win, the Dome rumbled as fans roared at a recorded 128 decibels. Southeastern Louisiana communications professor Joe Burns says it’s a remarkable feat, because exposure to any sound over 100-120 Db can be painful, and prolonged exposure can result in damage to your hearing.

Cut 13 (11) “…of loudness.”

The NFL Db record is held by Seattle for a 137 decibel outburst in 2017, but Burns says that number is questionable because even momentary exposure to 140 Db may result in deafness.

Decibels increase logarithmically, and to put 128 decibels in perspective, the average conversation is 60 decibels, and a chainsaw is about 110. Burns says an acquaintance of his runs sound for the Essence Fest, and their maximum sound level sits far below what Saints fans accomplished.

Cut 14 (11) “…that’s insane.”

The Rock School radio host says crowds certainly can impact games, as feeling that 128 decibels at field level, with a helmet on, would be disorienting.

Burns says it’s likely that reported 128 Db was only a momentary spike, and not a prolonged period that could result in hearing damage. Still, if you’re bringing your children to the Rams NFC Championship clash this Sunday, he has a suggestion….

Cut 15 (11) “….to you”

The World Health Organization recommends children not be exposed to any noise above 120 decibels.

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Sunday’s NFC Championship game between the Saints and Rams is a rematch of a November 4th game won by New Orleans 45-35. But since that game, Los Angeles has developed a two-headed run attack with Todd Gurley and recently signed CJ Anderson. Saints Coach Sean Payton is impressed with how the Rams ran the ball in their playoff win over Dallas…

Cut 16 (11)  “…defended the run.”

L-A rushed for 273 yards on Saturday in a 30-22 win over Dallas. The Rams defense held the Cowboys to 50 yards rushing. Coach Sean Payton says L-A has one of the game’s best defensive lines led by defensive tackle Aaron Donald…

 cut 17 (16)   “…tape here.” 

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LSU will look to remain unbeaten in SEC play tonight when the Tigers travel to Oxford to face the 18th ranked Ole Miss Rebels. Ole Miss moved up into the Top 25 in the latest poll by beating two ranked teams last week, Auburn and Mississippi State. Tigers Coach Will Wade says the Rebels have the best backcourt in the SEC, which is a major concern…

Cut 18 (17)   SEC games” 

Ole Miss is led by Breein Tyree, who is averaging almost 18 points a game. Terence Davis and Deveontae Shuler are also averaging double figures. Wade says it’s hard to slow down all three of them…

Cut 19 (20)   “…for us”

A Shreveport Conservative, known for his last second filibuster that prevented the Legislature from voting on a revenue bill to fund state government in June says he’s running to be the next Speaker of the House…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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According to the Louisiana Department of Health, five percent of doctors visits in the state are for flu-like symptoms.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 2 (30) “Im Kevin Barnhart”  

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Shreveport attorney and state representative Alan Seabaugh says he’s abandoning his quest to become a federal judge in favor of seeking re-election to the legislature, and then run to be the next House Speaker. Seabuagh, one of the most conservative House members, opposed the tax plan that funded state government in the last session, and says he would bring that same mentality to the leadership position.

Cut 3 (10) “…priorities”

The Shreveport Republican is noted for his last second “filibuster” that ended a special session before a vote could be held on a revenue plan to fully fund state government.

Stuart Bishop of Lafayette, Barry Ivey of Baton Rouge, and Sherman Mack of Albany are also in the running for Speaker in the Republican controlled House. Seabaugh says while he doesn’t think the legislature is reflective of Louisiana values, he doesn’t hold anything against the last speaker, Taylor Barras.

Cut 4 (10) “…governor″

Seabaugh says he hopes John Bel Edwards will be pushed out of the Governor’s Mansion in the 2019 election, so that the next speaker can focus on passing Republican priority legislation. But, when asked if the Democratic governor does win reelection, if he would be willing to work in a bi-partisan fashion…

Cut 5 (07) “…three years”

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President Trump spoke at the American Farm Bureau Convention in New Orleans today and promised to iron out trade deals that will be benefical for farmers. Mr. Trump says these new deals will make it easier to trade with Canada and other countries where  it’s currently difficult to do so

Cut 6 (08) “…immediately”

The President also made his case on why a border wall is needed. Congressional Democrats have refused to go along with spending 5-point-7 billion dollars to build a physical barrier between the U-S and Mexico. Mr. Trump says Democratic leadership is playing politics

Cut 7 (11) “Congressional election”

There were several hundred demonstrators outside of the Morial Convention Center where the president spoke. The protesters called for an end to the government shutdown and chanted “Build Bridges Not Walls.” But Mr. Trump says a border wall provides the U-S with the security it needs…

Cut 8 (10) “…America’s doors”

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According to the Louisiana Department of Health, the flu is on the upswing as five percent of doctor visits in the state are for flu-like symptoms.  Louisiana is among several hotspots in the southeast.  LDH flu bug expert Dr. Frank Welch says it’s typical for flu to start in certain areas and spread throughout the nation.

Cut 9 (06) “…go first I guess.″

Welch says right after the holidays is when an upswing in flu takes place as Louisiana has the perfect storm for spreading the illness.

Cut 10 (06) “…Mardi Gras activities.”

Welch says if someone hasn’t gotten a flu shot by now, they haven’t missed the boat.

Cut 11 (08) “…be fully protected.”

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The Humane Society of Louisiana says there is a rise in horse abuse cases throughout the state.  H-S-L Director Jeff Dorson says rarely does a day go by the animal protection group doesn’t get a call about one or more horses being mistreated, estimating they deal with at least a thousand cases annually.

Cut 12 (09)   “…actually delicate creatures.” 

Dorson says part of the issue is an endless cycle from the horse racing industry with an oversupply of horses being turned over to new owners without the proper credentials to care for the animals.

Cut 13 (12) “…one or two.”

Dorson says horse ownership can be overwhelming to those that don’t know what they are getting into.

Cut 14 (13) “…maintenance for horses.”

New polling data puts Governor John Bel Edwards approval rating at 49-percent. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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New data shows that the Acadiana area lost 11-thousand jobs from 2008 to 2018 in the Acadiana area…

Cut 2 (30) “Im Jeff Palermo”  

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Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s deputies are investigating what appears to be a murder suicide that left a married couple dead, and their son injured.  Sheriff Tony Mancuso says deputies were dispatched to a home in south Lake Charles early Friday morning regarding a man stabbing his son.

Cut 3 (12) “…in danger inside.”

Deputies found 52-year-old David Pendley dead along with his 59-year-old wife, Katherine. The son has been released from the hospital. Mancuso says it appears the father stabbed his wife and son and then stabbed himself…

Cut 4 (06) “…murder suicide″

Mancuso says the son survived the attack, but this family will never be the same…

Cut 5 (09) “…unfortunate”

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A poll finds that about half of Louisiana voters approve of Governor John Bel Edwards’ job performance. Morning Consult, which polls the popularity of governors, found Edwards has a 49-percent approval rating, 30-percent disapprove and 21-percent are undecided. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley

Cut 6 (10) “…Republican state”

Stockley says Edwards is doing well as a Democrat in the red state, because of his pro-gun and pro-life stance and his ability to bring budget stability…

Cut 7 (09) “surplus year”

Edwards is up for re-election on October 12th and there are two announced Republican challengers. Stockley says a positive approval rating is one thing, but getting re-elected as a Democrat in a red state is a whole different story…

Cut 8 (09) “…on his hands”

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Despite the recent talk of a slight uptick in the oil and gas business, when comparing 2008 to 2018, nearly 11,000 jobs were lost in the Acadiana area from the 24,000 oil jobs in 2008.  President and CEO of the Lafayette Economic Development Authority Gregg Gothreaux says the drop in the oil industry has seen a domino effect in job losses in other sectors.

Cut 9 (13) “…have lost jobs.″

Gothreaux says while much of the loss is linked to the drop in oil prices, about a thousand jobs were lost due to changes in the energy industry.

Cut 10 (11) “…in oil prices.”

Gothreaux says many of the workers are diverse in their skills and have found jobs with petrochemical projects.  He adds with the volatility of this oil industry, any comeback would likely be modest.

Cut 11 (09) “…changed so much.”

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It’s the Saints and the Eagles in an NFC divisional round playoff game on Sunday in the Dome. It looked like Philadelphia’s season was over when the Black and Gold dismantled them 48-7 in November. Saints linebacker Demario Davis says he’s not surprised to see the Eagles again in the postseason…

Cut 12 (11)   “…shoulder” 

Philly quarterback Nick Foles has led the team on a four game winning streak after starter Carson Wentz suffered a back injury in December. But Saints running back Alvin Kamara says they have quarterback Drew Brees…

Shreveport police are on the search for suspects responsible for the shooting death of one of their own officers.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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A stalwart of the North Baton Rouge business community announces plans to lay off at least 650 workers from its Port Hudson paper facility…

Cut 2 (30) “Im Matt Doyle”  

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President Donald Trump will visit New Orleans on Monday, so he can speak at the American Farm Bureau Convention. Louisiana Farm Bureau President Ronnie Anderson is glad to see the President will be at their centennial convention…

Cut 3 (11) “…this country.”

Rice and soybean farmers say the tariffs and now the government shutdown have hurt their ability to make money off their crop. There’s also concern among producers about whether documented workers living in Mexico can return for the growing season. Anderson says farmers are eager to hear from the president…

Cut 4 (11) “…right here″

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A female Shreveport Police officer is dead after being shot multiple times outside of a home last night around 8:30 as she was on her way to start her shift.  The officer was identified as Chateri Payne, who had graduated from the police academy in November.  Police Chief Ben Raymond says the murder of an officer is a catastrophic event to a law enforcement agency.

Cut 5 (10) “…this uniform everyday.”

Raymond says at this time, law enforcement agencies from all across the northern portion of the state are assisting in the investigation and adds they are looking for the public’s help as well.

Cut 6 (06) “…killers to justice.”

Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins had a message for officers who may be a little on edge about putting on the uniform after an incident of this nature.

Cut 7 (10) “in the world”

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A Bossier City mother and daughter are dead after an overnight double homicide shooting allegedly by the daughter’s boyfriend. Public Information Officer Traci Landry says officer’s arrived to a tragic scene after getting an 8:30PM call from a neighbor who heard gunshots.

Cut 8 (09) “…wounds”

22-year-old Shandrell and 40-year-old Maeisha Simoneaux are believed to have been murdered by the father of Shandrell’s two kids, 22-year-old Frederick Jackson, who has been arrested. Landry says it didn’t take long to apprehend the alleged murderer.

Cut 9 (10) “…interviewing.″

Landry says enough evidence was collected to charge Jackson with 1^st Degree Murder.

Landry says Jackson and Simoneaux’s two children were in the apartment at the time of the shooting, and have been turned over to a responsible party.

Cut 10 (10) “…members.”

Jackson has been booked into the Bossier City Jail on a 7.5 million dollar bail.

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Georgia-Pacific will be laying off at least 650 workers in March from its Port Hudson paper facility, in a major blow to the North Baton Rouge economy. Baton Rouge Senator Regina Barrow says it’s a huge loss, and a drastic shock to a community that relied on those union jobs to provide a good quality of life.

Cut 11 (10) “…working there”

Mayor-President Sharon Weston-Broome says the city will activate a Rapid Response employment program to help displaced workers find new employment.

Barrow says with more and more people going digital, and sending correspondence through email and text, the need for traditional paper that the facility specialized in has diminished.

Cut 12 (10)   “…white paper” 

Barrow says the closure should reemphasize the need for additional resources being allocated to programs that help prepare workers for the new, digital economy.

The Louisiana Legislative Women’s Caucus has requested the Board of Ethics reconsider its recent decision to no longer allow campaign funds to be spent on childcare.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

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Louisiana receives a one-point-two million dollar federal grant that will go towards helping child victims of human trafficking. Kevin Barnhart has more..

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.”  

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President Trump will be visiting the Crescent City on Monday. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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After the Board of Ethics vote to no longer allow campaign funds to be used for childcare for campaign events and activities, the Louisiana Legislative Women’s Caucus has requested the board to reconsider the decision.  Caucus Chair Sen. Beth Mizell…

Cut 4 (09) “…the first place.” 

Mizell says Morgan Lamandre, a Democrat candidate running for a Baton Rouge area House seat, had been advised by the Board that she could be penalized if she dipped into the campaign fund to pay for a babysitter while attending campaign fundraisers, forums, and other stops.

Cut 5 (09) “…was a problem.”

Mizell says candidates may not have the financial means to cover the cost of child care for the time it takes to run a campaign.

Cut 6 (10) “…run their campaign.”

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The Pelican Institute is asking lawmakers to back their revenue neutral tax plan that they say would slash corporate and upper-income tax levels by eliminating the myriad tax exemptions and deductions that have built up in the Louisiana constitution over the decades. Senior Fellow Chris Jacobs calls for eliminating refunds for businesses like job incentive, inventory tax credits, and others…

Cut 7 (08) “…percent”

Jacobs says you could get a flatter income tax rate if you eliminated things like the federal income tax deduction, historic preservation credits, and other itemized refunds and returns and you could…

Cut 8 (10) “…can get.”

It’s a sweeping plan that would simplify most of the state’s business and personal income filing, something that Jacobs says would reduce overhead for Louisiana businesses. But, to pull it off, you would need to rewrite the state constitution, and idea that’s gaining momentum…

Cut 9 (09) “…our constitution.″

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Louisiana has received a one-point-two million dollar federal grant that will go towards improving the outcomes for child victims of human trafficking. Governor John Edwards says the money is needed, because a report released last February found 681 adults and juveniles identified as victims of human trafficking in 2017…

Cut 10 (07)   “…going forward”

Louisiana is one of seven states since 2015 to receive this type of funding, which will be used on a project known as the Louisiana Child Trafficking Collaborative. First Lady Donna Edwards has attempted to raise awareness about human trafficking and says this is an issue that everyone needs to be concerned about

Cut 11 (12) “…make a difference.”

In 2016, Shared Hope International ranked Louisiana number one in the nation for its anti-trafficking laws. Edwards says the state is making progress in trying to stop modern-day slavery, which is why the Department of Justice trusts Louisiana with this federal grant

Cut 12 (12)   “…country.”

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President Donald Trump will be in New Orleans Monday for the National Farm Bureau Convention. It’s the second time the President has accepted the invitation to speak at the annual convention. Historically it’s a faction that’s backed the President, but ULM Poli Sci Professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says the trade war could mean a chillier reception than his last appearance.

Cut 13 (09) “…of Louisiana.”

it’s the President’s first appearance since a campaign rally in March of 2016.

Unless there’s a drastic change in negotiations between House Democrats and the President, the government will still likely be shut down. Stockley says if the President is looking for good press at a tough time, this might not be the best bet.

Cut 14 (11) “…appearances.”

Every year the President and Vice President are invited to speak at the convention. 

New Orleans was one of the few Louisiana cities to not vote for the President, and Stockley says there’s a chance a large, heated crowd is there to welcome the President to the Crescent City.

Cut 15 (10) “…a positive.”

The Farm Bureau Convention runs from Friday through Wednesday.

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The Sean Payton era Saints are an undefeated 5-0 at home for the playoffs, and fans and the players are getting hyped for the Sunday dome showdown with the reigning champion Philadelphia Eagles. Payton says quarterback Drew Brees lives for playing on the biggest stages.

Cut 16 (15)  “…make him special.”

Brees is 7-6 for his career in the playoffs, averaging 323 passing yards and over two touchdowns per game.

But Dome Field Advantage hasn’t always been a thing. The Black and Gold were 1-3 at home before the arrival of Payton and Brees. Payton says it takes a special combination of a great team and a motivated fan base to build the special kind of environment that exists in New Orleans right now.

 cut 17 (20)   “…your football team.” 

The Saints have a worst in league 1-5 record since 2006 in road playoff games.

The Saints rolled at home this year in the regular season, going 6-2, one of those wins being a 48-7 trashing of the Carson Wentz lead Eagles. Philly’s former starter tossed 3 picks, and their defense rolled over in the route, but Payton says they aren’t letting that game get to their head.

Cut 18 (14)   “…tremendous challenge” 

The Eagles are now led at QB by backup Nick Foles.

Governor John Bel Edwards says he’s open to dedicating revenue from sports betting to early childhood education.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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 A State GOP operative says the party is seriously considering backing just one candidate in the governor’s race for the October open primary…

Cut 2 (30) “Im Matt Doyle”  

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Educators are keeping their finger on the pulse of sports betting in Louisiana after Governor John Bel Edwards says he’s open to dedicating any revenue from the additional gaming to better preparing children for kindergarten.  Edwards says if the state really wants to make a difference in the lives of children, more needs to be done about early childhood education.

Cut 3 (08) “…kindergarten any longer.”

While he expects the gains to be modest, Edwards says the sports betting is also an important aspect in making sure the state doesn’t see a decline in gaming revenue.

Cut 4 (11) “…our best interest.″

Edwards says the extra gaming revenue could go towards early childhood programs and it will be up for discussion when the legislature meets in April…

Cut 5 (12) “…to have.”

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After a 2015 GOP gubernatorial blood bath that saw the ascendance of The South’s only Democratic governor, Louisiana Republican operative Scott Wilfong, on Talk Louisiana, said the party is taking a hard look in 2019 at throwing their weight behind just one candidate before the October open primary. Wilfong says the party will be discussing that question, and soon.

Cut 6 (06) “…ultimately”

Louisiana operates a “jungle” primary where candidates from all parties are pitted against one and other, with the top two making the run-off. GOP state leaders have requested closed primaries where each party sends their winning candidate to a general election, but Wilfong says that’s yet to materialize.

Cut 7 (11) “one candidate”

Wilfong says potential candidates will be given an opportunity to build support and compete for the Louisiana GOP’s backing, and he hopes that once a frontrunner becomes clear, the other competitors will bow out gracefully.

Cut 8 (09) “…get out”

The only two Republicans in the race so far are Baton Rouge businessman Eddie Rispone, and Congressman Ralph Abraham.

____________________________

An Acadian restauranteur and chef has died following a plane crash while on a hunting trip in California.  Lionel Robin is fondly remembered in his community and his food crawfish etouffee was once featured on the Food Network.   Henderson Mayor Sherbin Collette says he has known Robin is whole life.

Cut 9 (08) “…would help them.″

Robin had owned and operated Robin’s Restaurant in Hersonville for about four decades, but had recently been working as the hospitality chef for Tabasco Pepper Sauce.  Collette says Robin had a passion for hunting.

Cut 10 (09) “…he wouldn’t miss.”

Collette says Robin was a happy guy and his crawfish etouffee was so popular, he canned the dish and it was distributed around the country.

Cut 11 (11) “…food was fantastic.”

Robin was 70 years old.

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Louisiana’s House Republican delegation supports President Trump’s effort to secure billions of dollars for wall at the U-S Mexico border. Mr. Trump calls it a security crisis, however top congressional Democrats say the president is providing misinformation. Louisiana Congressman Steve Scalise says Democrats are in denial

Cut 12 (12)   “…southern border” 

Scalise says if Democrats want to claim they support border security, they should be willing to negotiate…

2018 was a significant year in fundraising for the re-election campaign of Governor John Bel Edwards, raising $3.8 million, bringing his total campaign account to over $8.3 million.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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President Trump speaks to the nation tonight about border security. Matt Doyle has reaction from a Republican and a Democrat.

Cut 2 (30) “Im Matt Doyle”  

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According to his re-election campaign, Gov. John Bel Edwards raised $3.8 million in 2018 and enters 2019 with $8.3 million in the bank for the race. UL Lafayette Poli Sci Professor Pearson Cross says that’s a significant number for the Governor.

Cut 3 (10) “…get him re-elected.”

Cross says this indicates that any challengers who can’t raise about ten million dollars will not be competitive in the race.

Cut 4 (12) “…the governor has.″

A report from the campaign indicates that 87% of the money came from in-state donors. Cross says Edwards will remain active on the campaign fundraising trail.

Cut 5 (08) “…for this race.”

One of Edwards’ announced challengers, Eddie Rispone’s gubernatorial campaign says the Baton Rouge Republican has 5.5 million dollars in his campaign account. No word yet from the other Republican challenger Ralph Abraham.

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President Trump will address the nation at 8PM to lay out his case for increased funding for border security in the midst of a government shutdown over the President’s demand for 5.7 billion in funding for a physical border wall. Republican Congressman Garret Graves says we do not need another Great Wall, but additional physical structures would decrease illegal border crossings.

Cut 6 (11) “…of miles”

Graves says additional border security is necessary due to the presence of Central American cartels on the Mexican side that he says are responsible for the vast majority of opioids in America, and other criminal activity.

Cut 7 (07) “occurring”

But Democrats refuse to pass a spending bill that includes border wall funding, calling it wasteful and unnecessary. Democratic New Orleans Congressman Cedric Richmond says the House will not force taxpayers to waste their money on the President’s campaign slogan.

Cut 8 (10) “…of money.”

Richmond says those funds should go towards social programs like paid maternity leave.

The President says building the wall would make America safer, but Richmond says those claims just aren’t true, and utilizing modern methods, like those called for by the Department of Homeland Security, would be a better border plan.

Cut 9 (09) “…technology″

Graves agreed that a border security plan should also lean on modern technology over just a wall.

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A candlelight vigil was held yesterday at Marksville High School as the Avoyelles Parish community came together to mourn those affected by the deadly wreck in Florida that claimed the lives of five children last week.  Avoyelles House of Mercy Pastor Eric Descant called into the gathering from Florida to address those in attendance.

Cut 10 (11) “…and compassionate people.”

Descant took a moment to show his appreciation to those that have shown support for the community.

Cut 11 (09) “…them to rest.”

Governor John Bel Edwards spoke about the wreck at the Baton Rouge Press Club yesterday, saying he’s been praying for the community and he has been in touch with church leaders over the weekend.

Cut 12 (12)   “…community in Marksville.” 

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The Avoyelles Parish town of Marksville remains in mourning over the deaths of five children killed in a fiery crash in Florida.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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Dukes of Hazzard star John Schneider says his Holden-based production studio was seized because he’s a lot more of a story teller than he is a businessman. Jeff Palermo has more..

Cut 2 (30) “Im Jeff Palermo”  

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The residents of Marksville in Avoyelles Parish are still in mourning following the I-75 crash involving two 18 wheelers that left seven dead, with five being local children on a church trip to Disney last week.  Another candlelight vigil is planned for 5:30 this afternoon at Marksville High School’s football field.  Marksville mayor John Lemoine describes the day the news broke in the town.

Cut 3 (10) “…everybody knows everybody.”

The wreck happened just outside of the Gainsville area.

The children ranged in age from 14 to 9.  Lemoine says he knew four of the five children that died in the fiery crash.

Cut 4 (08) “…with the community.″

Lemoine says the support that has come in from around the country to help the grieving community has been overwhelming.

Cut 5 (11) “…the country’s had.”

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Former Dukes of Hazzard star John Schneider has opened up about why his production studio in Holden was seized by the Sheriff, saying plainly, that it’s his fault for not making the mortgage payments on the property. Schneider says the recording and filmmaking hub has been on hard times since the 2016 floods, but…

Cut 6 (09) “…the world”

Court records indicate Schneider has not paid the mortgage, held by First Guarantee Bank, on the property since July 28^th.

Schneider, who played Bo Duke on the hit show from 79-85, says he wants to make it clear that unlike many plots from Dukes, the seizure was not some nefarious, underhanded scheme from the local sheriff.

Cut 7 (11) “…in trouble.”

The star purchased the property, named Schneider Studios, in Holden in 2014.

Schneider hopes fans will visit the website and purchase some of the songs and movies made at the studio in a last second bid to stop from losing the property, but warns he will not be asking for charity.

Cut 8 (08) “…on that.”

The property is set to be sold January 16th.

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A single-vehicle crash on LA Hwy 135 in Franklin Parish on Sunday resulted in the death of a teenage driver and serious injuries to another teen. State Police Trooper Michael Reichardt says 16-year-old Angel Irwin of Winnsboro over corrected and hit a tree…

Cut 9 (10) “…serious injuries″

The trooper says impairment is not suspected and the conditions of the passenger are not known at this time.

Reichardt says regardless of the holiday season a crash like this is tragic…

Cut 10 (09) “…party”

Reichardt says if you are traveling always be prepared…

Cut 11 (07) “…seatbelt”

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At 23 years of age, the village of Turkey Creek in Evangeline Parish has the youngest mayor in the state’s history.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

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The U.S. Surgeon General says a record 2.1 million American teenagers vape. Matt Doyle spoke with a local health expert about this epidemic.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle.”  

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Governor John Bel Edwards will address the Press Club today.  Kevin Barnhart speaks with political analyst Bernie Pinsonat on what we’ll expect to hear.

Cut 3 (32) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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Construction begins today to improve the integrity of the I-210 Prien Lake Bridge in Calcasieu Parish.  The 35-million dollar project is expected to last one year.  DOTD spokesperson Tammy York says motorists need to be prepared for a slowdown in the area.

Cut 4 (12) “…9PM to 4AM.” 

York says the first phase kicking off today is to prepare the structure for a redecking that will happen in the second phase of the project.

Cut 5 (09) “…side of the bridges.”

York recommends drivers find another route to avoid the area if possible.

Cut 6 (09) “…higher traffic volume.”

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The village of Turkey Creek in Evangeline Parish now holds the distinction of having the youngest mayor to hold the office in the history of the state.  Phillip Cavins, who is 23-years-old , says growing up, he’s always had an interest in government and politics.

Cut 7 (11) “…went in unopposed.”

Cavins says he grew up on the outskirts of city limits, and has fond memories of riding bikes, skateboarding, and playing basketball in the area.

Cut 8 (09) “…take this step.”

Cavins says the age distinction didn’t dawn on him.  Once he qualified for the position and found out he was running unopposed, someone reached out and let him know he was likely the youngest mayor in the history of the state.

Cut 9 (12) “…the same time.″

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The U.S. Surgeon General has declared teen vaping an epidemic as a report says an estimated 2.1 million middle and high school students are using the electronic cigarettes. Department of Health Assistant State Health Officer, Dr. Joseph Kanter, says just because it’s not a traditional cigarette, doesn’t mean it isn’t terrible for your health, particularly if you’re young.

Cut 10 (12)   “…and younger.”

10.7 million kids aged 12 to 17 say they’ve tried the cigarette alternative, and Kanter says even worse, two thirds of them were not aware that e-cigs were harmful to their health. Kanter says it took decades to crush teen smoking, and this new trend could see it come back.

Cut 11 (10) “…we’ve seen”

Kanter says it’s particularly disturbing considering how much leeway vape companies are given in their advertising. He says while traditional cigarettes are banned from promoting in a way that attracts kids, e-cigarette companies are specifically targeting youth.

Cut 12 (11)   “…packaging.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards addresses the Baton Rouge Press Club today as he begins the final year of his current term.  Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat expects Edwards will tout his accomplishments and also tell us his re-election message…

Cut 13 (09) “…should be reelected.”

Pinsonat says of the accomplishments, Edwards will likely highlight the stability in the budget as well as funding for education and health care.

Cut 14 (09) “…he’ll talk about.”

Pinsonat predicts Edwards will focus on the goal of teacher pay raises, as Louisiana is below the southern regional average.

Cut 15 (10) “…of the question.”

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Former Haughton star and Sulphur native Dak Prescott won his first NFL playoff game on Saturday as the Cowboys defeated the Seahawks 24-22. Prescott threw for 226 yards and one touchdown. He also rushed for a touchdown as Dallas moves on to play the Los Angeles Rams on Saturday

Cut 16 (16)  keep going”

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The Saints will host the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday in the NFC Divisional Round. Former ULM star and Philadelphia Coach Doug Pederson is now 4-0 in the playoffs as a head coach. The Eagles stunned the Bears 16-15 yesterday with a dramatic wild card win in the Windy City. Pederson and quarterback Nick Foles have been unstoppable in the postseason the last two seasons

 cut 17 (15)    on the sideline” 

The Eagles and Saints will meet for a second time this season at 3:40 on Sunday. New Orleans smashed Philly 48-7 in the Superdome on November 18th. Pederson expects a much closer contest this time…

Cut 18 (13)    great atmosphere”