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.”

Louisiana residents could wake up to a light snowfall tomorrow. Don Molino has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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One of the former fraternity members who allegedly participated in the hazing death of LSU student Max Gruver has been ordered to turn over his cellphone passcode…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Pelicans All-Star Anthony Davis has reportedly submitted a trade request and informed the team he will not re-sign when his contract expires in the summer of 2020. Davis would pass up a potential 230 million dollar contract, but Advocate Pelicans writer Scott Kushner says A-D wants to play for a winning franchise…

Cut 3 (11) “…been led.”

The Pels are 22-and-28 this season, a sharp turn of events from last year, when the underdog Pels swept the third seeded Trailblazers in the first round of the playoffs, before losing to the Warriors in five games.

It’s the end of yet another era in New Orleans defined by one star player who left for greener pastures. Kushner says there’s plenty of blame to go around for the team’s inability to be more than just an 8^th seed contender.

Cut 4 (12) “…change direction.″

Earlier this year Davis was spotted with Lebron James at a restaurant, where James reportedly pitched The Brow on playing in the City of Angels.

Davis has averaged 24 points and 11 rebounds a game on 52 percent shooting for his career in New Orleans, while playing a pivotal defensive role for the team. Kushner says there is no trade that can replace his performance, but it’s possible that a good haul could lead to a brighter future down the road.

Cut 5 (11) “…going forward.”

Reports indicate the Celtics would be able to offer the best package for AD, but would have to wait until July to do so.

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A winter weather advisory is in effect tonight and into early tomorrow morning for much of north and central Louisiana. Forecaster Mario Valverde, with the National Weather Service, says light snow is expected in Monroe and Alexandria, while Shreveport might see a tenth of an inch…

Cut 6 (08) “…morning hours”

Valverde says hazardous travel conditions are possible because of the light snowfall…

Cut 7 (10) “…travel problems”

Valverde says rain will develop tonight across the northern half of the state as an artic cold front moves through. He says they believe the snow will not start falling until early tomorrow morning…

Cut 8 (08) “…wake up.”

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A stage judge orders one of the former LSU students who allegedly played a role in the suspected hazing death of Max Gruver in 2017 to hand over his cellphone’s passcode, so investigators can search for potentially incriminating evidence. Loyola University Law Professor Dane Ciolino says it’s a surprising decision, considering how this same question has played out elsewhere.

Cut 9 (12) “password.″

An attorney for 20-year-old Matthew Naquin of Texas has argued by turning over the code, his client would violate his constitutional right against self-incrimination.

Ciolino says Naquin does not have a choice about turning over the cellphone, unless he wants to break the law. He says this isn’t a situation where you can just… conveniently forget the pin to get into the phone.

Cut 10 (11) “…particular”.

Because requiring cell phone passwords is not settled law, Ciolino says convicting Naquin on the back of evidence obtained from his device is likely to lead to a lengthy series of legal challenges that may not favor the prosecution.

Cut 11 (11) “habeas corpus.”

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The state department of transportation is monitoring the potential for wintry precipitation and will continue to do so through tomorrow morning. DOTD spokesperson Erin Buchanan…

Cut 12 (11)   “…conditions.”

Buchanan says wintry precipitation falls during the overnight hours, be extra careful on your way to work or school…

Cut 13 (07) “…hazardous weather”

To get updates on road conditions you can go to 5-1-1, L-A-dot-org. Buchanan says they’ll have crews on the roadways tonight looking for troubled spots…

Cut 14 (07) “…the field.”

There is the possibility we could see a light snowfall late tonight and into early tomorrow morning. Don Molino has the details…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Don Molino”

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This evening at 5PM, National Geographic Channel is taking viewers on a trip to Caddo Lake to investigate an infestation of one of the most devastating invasive species in the country….

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Conner Ferrill”  

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You can now buy alcohol and tobacco with your LA Wallet digital driver’s license in Louisiana. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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An appellate court has blocked a convicted felon who comfortably won an election to be mayor of Ball from taking office, due to an amendment that passed on that same November 2018 ballot that barred felons from running for, or holding office for at least five years after their sentence. Roy Hebron’s attorney, Charles Elliot, says they are disappointed in the ruling.

Cut 4 (12) “the election”

Hebron’s sentence on a FEMA fraud related charge ended in 2017.

Elliot says they plan on further appealing the decision, because the amendment did not take effect until after Hebron won his election with 56 percent of the vote, so he should be allowed to serve his term.

Cut 5 (06) “…unconstitutional.”

Opponents argue that the amendment states convicted felons cannot run for OR hold office, thus disqualifying Hebron.

Elliot says this is partly the state legislature’s fault. He noted they added specific, applicable time limits to the unanimous jury verdict amendment that passed…

Cut 6 (10) “…unconstitutional”

Elliot adds the town council elected a mayor pro-temp in the meantime, but then did not ask the former mayor, who filed the suit against Hebron, to leave.

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Authorities are working to bring back a south Louisiana man suspected of killing his parents and his girlfriend, plus her father and brother. 21-year-old Dakota Theriot was arrested Sunday at his grandmother’s home in Virginia. Theriot’s killing spree started Saturday at a home just outside of Walker and then he went to his parents home in Gonzales. Ascension Sheriff Bobby Webre says some sort of domestic dispute sparked the slayings

Cut 7 (11) “…deal with.”

Theriot faces multiple murder charges, home invasion and illegal use of weapons in Louisiana. He has been arrested before, but mainly for minor charges. Livingston Sheriff Jason Ard says Theriot was living with his girlfriend and the relationship was relatively new…

Cut 8 (11) “…this time”

Webre says Theriot’s father gave authorities the information they needed to begin the massive manhunt for the suspected killer…

Cut 9 (11) “…this act″

Theriot’s parents are 50-year-old Keith and Elizabeth Theriot of Gonzales. The victims in Livingston have been identified as 43-year-old Billy Ernest, 20-year-old Summer Ernest and 17-year-old Tanner Ernest.

_________________________________

The National Geographic Channel will feature Caddo Lake on its critically acclaimed documentary series “Explorer” at 5 PM Monday, the sight of a nasty infestation of giant salvinia. The lake is split between Texas and Louisiana, and Caddo Lake Institute Executive Director Laura-Ashley Overdyke says…

Cut 10 (11) “species”

Salvinia is a floating fern that hails from Brazil, and once it takes root it can cover acres of water in just a few days, doubling every week during growing season. Overdyke says it can cause massive damage to ancient local ecosystems in just a short amount of time, in one of two devastating ways.

Cut 11 (10) “…open water.”

The documentary will take viewers out on a flat boat through those troubled waters, and across the border into Texas where efforts are underway to create a creature that can go toe to toe with the growing menace.

Cut 12 (11) “…salvinia.”

The host, Sal Masekala, is credited with calling Lake Caddo one of the most magical locations he’s ever seen.

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The Office of Alcohol and Tobacco has certified the LA Wallet app, a digital version of your driver’s license, for booze and Tobacco purchases. ATC Commissioner Juana Marine Lombard says it’s up to restaurants whether or not they want to accept digital IDs, but business that are interested have been training their staff to be ready to accept the app when customers order a beer.

Cut 13 (12) “…digital ID”

Lombard says they’ve been working closely with the DMV and Envoc, the company that created the app, to make sure it was secure, and could not be manipulated by a particularly craft under age kid to buy alcohol. She says a fake digital ID would be incredibly hard to pull off.

Cut 14 (11) “more secure”

Lombard says digital IDs are the way of the future, and celebrated the fact that Louisiana is the only state to have a digital license that lets you pick up some adult substances.

Cut 15 (09) “…bar owner.”

The app, which costs 5.99 to activate, launched in app stores on all major platforms in July of 2018.

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Full squad workouts are underway for the highly touted LSU Baseball team. The Tigers are ranked either first or second in every major college baseball preseason poll. Coach Paul Mainieri says junior right-hander Zack Hess will be the leader of their pitching staff…

Cut 16 (17) “…Southeastern Conference.″

Hess had an up and down sophomore campaign, but Mainieri liked what saw from his Friday night starter when he pitched last summer with the USA National team.

LSU’s everyday line-up is nearly set with Antoine Duplantis, Daniel Cabrera, Zach Watson and a healthy Josh Smith is back. Mainieri says the big position battle is for first base and four freshman are vying for playing time there…

 cut 17 (18)   “..left handed bat” 

The other two freshmen are CJ Willis from Ruston and Gavin Dugas from Houma.

Mainieri says the weekend rotation will be led by Hess and Eric Walker is penciled in as the Sunday starter as he returns from Tommy John Surgery. The coach says freshman right-hander Landon Marceaux from Destrehan could be the Saturday starter, but that could change by opening weekend…

Cut 18 (24)  terrific” 

The small Allen Parish town of Oakdale has been feeling the effects of the federal government shutdown. Connor Ferrill explains why…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Connor Ferrill”

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150 dogs were seized and taken to the St. John the Baptist Animal Shelter, and the shelter is asking for volunteers and donations to help with the huge influx of rescues. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”  

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In the small Allen Parish town of Oakdale, about 150 federal workers are celebrating the news that the federal government shutdown is ending. Oakdale is home to a federal prison and immigration detention facility. Oakdale Mayor Gene Paul says several families in his town have been struggling…

Cut 3 (11) “…or so.”

Paul says the federal workers he spoke with, didn’t like being caught up in a dispute over border wall funding

Cut 4 (09) “…their bills.″

Paul says the town of Oakldale is giving federal workers an extension to pay their utility bills…

Cut 5 (09) “…these people.”

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150 dogs were seized in an animal cruelty bust, and now the St. John the Baptist Animal Shelter is seeking volunteers and donations to help with the influx of abused dogs. Shelter Manager Rachael Sance says the dogs are at a healthy weight, but arrived with a number of ailments.

Cut 6 (13) “…mange.”

Sance says it’s the largest single influx of dogs the shelter has ever seen, the next largest being 40 last year from another cruelty case.

Despite the deplorable living conditions, Sance says many of the dogs are ready for a supportive family to foster or adopt them. She says if you are interested in a canine companion, the shelter will provide new owners with a crate, food, medical supplies, and other supplies.

Cut 7 (12) “…shaking”

Sance does not recommend bringing one of the rescues into a home with young children.

The shelter is seeking a variety of goods from generous donors to help cope with the pack, including cleaning supplies like bleach and towels, along with dog food. Sance says there’s a number of ways the public can help, including helping socialize the dogs, and giving direct donations.

Cut 8 (12) “…on there.”

The investigation has been referred to as a “hoarding” case, but details about the alleged hoarder, or hoarders have not been made available yet.

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Senator Bill Cassidy took to the Senate floor today and said he wants the NFL to answer two questions in the wake of the infamous “no-call” from the NFC Championship game. One, how did the NFL grade the referees’ performance, and two, were the refs biased….

Cut 9 (12) “few others .″

Cassidy says the lack of public acknowledgement of the substantial officiating error is jeopardizing the NFL’s relationship with their fans, and its reputation as the top professional league in the country. He says the address this, the league should release its internal grading of the NFC Championship officials.

Cut 10 (11) “…particular.

Four out of the seven officials on the Championship crew are reportedly from California, and the LA area in particular. Cassidy says that raises some serious questions about their ability to impartially officiate a tight game.

Cut 11 (11) “Rams fan.”

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Three flights at Monroe Regional Airport had to be canceled today because T-S-A agents did not show up for work. Public Relations Media Coordinator for the City of Monroe Rod Washington says the government shutdown’s negative effects aren’t limited to disgruntled TSA agents delayed pay…

Cut 12 (06)   “…morning.”

Washington says all later flights appear to be on schedule with some support on the way…

Cut 13 (10) “…resume”

Staffing shortages are also impacted flights at New York’s LaGuardia, Newark and Philadelphia airports.

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A major change is coming on where high school championship games will be played. LHSAA principals have voted to allow “select” schools to host its title games in football, basketball, baseball and softball sites separate from public schools. Teurlings Catholic Principal Mike Boyer says it’s a good day for the LHSAA…

Cut 14 (08) “…throughout the state.”

Boyer says the school that has the higher seed in the championship game will decide where the game will be held

The Sunshine Bridge in St. James Parish will be shut down for the weekend. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle.”

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A fifth grade math and science teacher from Bains Elementary in St. Francisville wins a 25,000 dollar national award for her exceptional work in the classroom…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.”  

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An 8 month old child is dead and his mother is behind bars, charged with negligent homicide.  Kevin Barnhart has more.

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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The Sunshine Bridge in St. James Parish will be shut down from Saturday 6 AM until early Monday morning for major repair work on the structure hit by a crane barge back in October. The bridge has been partially open since December. Department of Transportation Spokesperson Rodney Mallet says it’s impressive work.

Cut 4 (08) “in place.”

Mallet estimates this will be the last time the bridge is shut off to traffic through the end of scheduled repairs.

Repair efforts and repainting has continued while the bridge has been partially open, but Mallet says this particular bit of restoration is delicate enough that they can’t risk have motorists passing on the bridge while crews lift 50 foot beams below it.

Cut 5 (09) “…too.”

Repairs are expected to conclude in late January, early February. Mallet says they were planning on getting it done earlier, but a series of freak weather incidents have kept crews off the bridge.

Cut 6 (08) “…that bridge”

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St. Francisville fifth grade teacher Stephanie Whetstone got one heck of a surprise yesterday, as she received the 25,000 dollar Milken Award for her work in the classroom at Bains Elementary. Whetstone was recognized for her commitment to making sure students understand not just the STEM curriculum, but why they need those vital math skills.

Cut 7 (09) “…life skills.”

The 25,000 is a no strings attached cash prize.

Whetstone says Bains is one of the top five performing schools in the state, and credits their emphasis on building a sense of responsibility in their older students.

Cut 8 (07) “…other students”

Milken Senior Vice President Dr. Jane Foley released a statement praising the educator’s work, saying “Stephanie’s students will know how to meet the demands of today’s global economy.”

It’s a generous award for one of Louisiana hard-working educators, and comes at a time where there’s a pay raise push statewide for teachers. Whetstone says she was shocked to receive the award, and hopes other Louisiana teachers will be financially rewarded by lawmakers for their efforts as well.

Cut 9 (12) “…other things″

Governor Edwards is proposing a 1,000 dollar teacher pay raise, and a 500 dollar support staff pay raise.

_________________________________

A Calcasieu Parish mother is in jail, charged with negligent homicide in the death of her eight-month-old child.  Deputies responded to a home in Sulphur in reference to a baby boy that was not breathing.  Sheriff Tony Mancuso says upon arrival, the first deputy on the scene began performing CPR on the child.

Cut 10 (07) “actual baby’s room.”

26-year-old Lacey Blount was booked into the Calcasieu Correctional Center and the infant died at a local hospital. Mancuso says authorities discovered marijuana, meth, and paraphernalia at the home at the time of the incident.

Cut 11 (08) “…heard the baby.”

Mancuso says while the case is still under investigation, it appears the baby was sleeping on a bed at the time.

Cut 12 (07) “…and a nightstand.”

Mancuso says the father of the child was at work when deputies arrived at the home.

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Two competing Senate bills to re-open the government both failed to obtain the 60 votes needed to pass, and now we’re into day 35 of the historically long shutdown. Federal workers are nearing a full month without pay, and with rent coming due, many of their lives are getting precarious. Senator Bill Cassidy says the only way forward is a compromise between the two party leaders.

Cut 13 (12) “…Pelosi”

One measure, would have temporarily re-opened the government through February 8^th, the other was a long term fix that, was the President’s offer of legal protections for “Dreamers” in return for 5.7 billion to fund additional border wall. Cassidy voted against the first, and for the second bill.

But, Cassidy is optimistic that a deal is coming in the near future. He says there’s signs that democratic anti-wall resolve is beginning to crack, and some lawmakers from across the aisle are looking to make a deal…

Cut 14 (10) “of that.”

Senator John Kennedy is pursing legislation to get unpaid Coast Guard members a check before the 1^st, and Cassidy says if the deadlock continues, pursuing piecemeal legislative efforts to get federal workers paid may be necessary.

Cut 15 (08) “…that end.”

A possible hunger crisis may be in Louisiana’s future as the government shutdown continues. Kevin Barnhart has more.

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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A volunteer softball coach and daughter of the head coach of the Lady Cajuns was one of two people killed in an overnight five-vehicle crash in Lafayette on Interstate 10. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Two are dead following a five-vehicle crash on I-10 in Lafayette, including the daughter of the Lady Cajuns head softball coach. A Houston man and 24-year-old Geri Glasco of Arnaudville, who was also a volunteer softball coach at UL-Lafayette, were pronounced dead at the scene. State Trooper Thomas Gossen says the chain reaction crash started with an 18-wheeler traveling too fast in an active construction zone.

Cut 3 (11) “…five car crash.”

Gossen says Glasco and 45-year-old Kenneth McNeil died at the scene and alcohol tests on all of the drivers involved are pending.

Cut 4 (07) “…no alcohol present.″

The area has several hot spots of active construction and Gossen encourages drivers to practice patience and vigilance when behind the wheel.

Cut 5 (07) “…in those zones.”

Gossen says 67-year-old William Rawlings of Killeen, Texas, was behind the wheel of the of the semi that caused the accident. Charges are pending.

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Governor John Bel Edwards has announced plans to spend 350-million dollars on coastal restoration and flood protection projects. Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana spokesperson Jimmy Frederick says nearly 300-million is federal dollars from the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act….

Cut 6 (09) “…desperately needed.”

The other 55-million dollars for coastal work comes from state surplus money. Frederick says the previous administration took away money for designated coastal projects and spent it elsewhere…

Cut 7 (12) “…wetlands”

Some of the state surplus dollars will go to the long-delayed West Shore Lake Pontchartrain hurricane protection project, which will protect LaPlace and surrounding areas. Frederick says these projects are critical to the overall health of the coast…

Cut 8 (10) “…flooding.”

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Food banks are facing a possible hunger crisis as the partial government shutdown continues.  Jay Vise, spokesman for Second Harvest Food Bank, who serves hundreds of food pantries across south Louisiana, says they’ve seen an increased demand for help during the shutdown.

Cut 9 (07) “by the shutdown.″

Vise says they are currently getting ready to face a serious challenge in the coming weeks because of issues with food stamps programs caused by the shutdown.

Cut 10 (10) “…so generously provide.

Vise encourages donations beyond just food as people are in need of many different supplies at this time.

Cut 11 (13) “appreciated as well.”

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The recently sworn in mayor of Shreveport Adrian Perkins is attending the US Conference of Mayors Annual winter meeting in Washington D-C. Perkins says gathering with other mayors will help him as he tackles some of Shreveport’s infrastructure problems

Cut 12 (11)   “…correct em.”

Perkins was sworn in on December 29th. One of has first tasks has been working to improve police and community relations…

Cut 13 (12) “…in Shreveport”

Perkins says the conference of mayors came at a good time for him…

Cut 14 (13) “…technology.”

Governor John Bel Edwards has sent a letter to Roger Goodell urging the NFL Commish to make sure another team is not robbed of going to the Super Bowl. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Starting next week, Louisiana abortion clinics will be legally compelled to have admitting privileges at a local hospital. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Governor John Bel Edwards has sent a written letter to NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell asking him and the owners to change the rules to make sure another obvious, blatant and intentional penalty at the end of a championship game doesn’t go uncalled again….

Cut 3 (04) “…for the league.”

There’s been a report the NFL competition committee will look during the offseason on whether pass interference should be the subject of an instant replay review. Edwards believes it should be

Cut 4 (09) “…happening again″

So far there has been no official response from Goodell or the league about the missed pass interference call at the NFC Championship game. Edwards believes he’ll get a response from the NFL, because he’s heard from some who have no interest in the Super Bowl this year…

Cut 5 (11) “…problem is”

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Governor John Bel Edwards re-election effort is officially underway as he made two campaign stops today in Lafayette. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says despite good approval ratings it’s not a sure thing that Edwards will be re-elected..

Cut 6 (10) “…Louisiana.”

Meanwhile, Republican challenger and Congressman Ralph Abraham held a lunchtime fundraiser in Lake Providence today. But Pinsonat says the other announced GOP challenger, Eddie Rispone, is the X-factor, because he can self-fund much of his campaign…

Cut 7 (12) “…hard to do”

Other Republicans can still enter the race. He says former Congressman John Fleming of Minden is reportedly looking at it and Pinsonat says he has deep pockets too and could hurt Abraham’s chances…

Cut 8 (10) “…north Louisiana.”

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Beginning Monday, Louisiana abortion clinics will be required to have admitting privileges at a local hospital, that after a Friday ruling from the New Orleans based 5^th Circuit Court of Appeals. Attorney General Jeff Landry says his office has been proud to defend the law that was passed in 2014, nearly unanimously, in the Louisiana Legislature.

Cut 9 (11) “common sense″

Act 620 was held up for years after the Supreme Court struck down a similar law in Texas in 2016. The 5^th Circuit in September determined the Louisiana law was different enough to warrant a rehearing.

So starting Monday, Landry says all Louisiana clinics must adhere to the law, or they could be shut down by the state.

Cut 10 (10) “…of Health.

After five years of winding its way through the courts, Act 620 still may not be done facing legal challenges. There’s one appeal left, and that’s to the US Supreme Court. Landry says if that happens, they’re ready.

Cut 11 (07) “our case”

The Center for Reproductive Rights says there are only three abortion clinics left in Louisiana.
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Get ready for a cold night, especially in north Louisiana, as Shreveport, Monroe and Natchitoches can all see morning lows below 30-degrees. Chris Nuttall is with the National Weather Service in Shreveport…

Cut 12 (09)   “…tonight.”

Nuttall says it’s possible that below freezing tempeatures could get as far south as Lafayette…

Cut 13 (04) “…right now.”

Nuttall says it will feel warmer tomorrow afternoon, before another cold front hits the state tomorrow night, early tomorrow morning…

Cut 14 (13) “…few days.”

The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp regulation on a state level, so could we see it legalized in Louisiana? Matt Doyle talked to one group pushing to make it happen…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle.”

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The LHSAA Annual Convention begins today in Baton Rouge and there’s a proposal up for debate that would let select or private schools hold their football championships at a venue other than the Superdome. Matt Doyle has more…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart.”  

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A New Orleans lawyer is taking the side of the Saints in the courtroom an attempt to get NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to provide answers following the Burglary on the Bayou.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (32) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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An organization is gearing up to push for hemp legalization in Louisiana after the 2018 Farm Bill let states start regulating it. Louisiana Industrial Hemp Alliance Representative Arthur Walker says it’s a lucrative cash crop that currently has to be mostly imported, and is found in a range of products.

Cut 4 (11) “…can do.”

According to PEW, 19 states harvested industrial hemp last year, but only 25,000 total acres. Walker says it’s a hearty crop that can sprout up just about anywhere, so Louisiana’s fertile lands would be perfect.

Cut 5 (09) “…ideal.”

Some lawmakers have expressed concern that allowing hemp would lead to kids using recreational marijuana.

When most people hear hemp, they think pot, which historically has kept the plant from taking root. Walker says while hemp is related to marijuana, they are not the same, and industrial hemp cannot get you stoned.

Cut 6 (10) “…you high.”

The state legislature would have to pass a regulatory bill for hemp growth to be allowed here.

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The Saints Super Bowl hopes isn’t the only thing going cold in the Bayou State this week as more cold air moves into the state today.  State Climatologist Barry Keim says with this latest front you’ll need to dress warm for the next few days and arm yourself with an umbrella for today

Cut 7 (08) “…said and done.”

Keim says the northern parishes have already seen a massive drop in temps compared to yesterday afternoon.

Cut 8 (07) “…across northern parishes.”

Keim says by this afternoon the front will have crossed the state and the cold temps will continue to drop throughout the afternoon and into tomorrow as well.

Cut 9 (07) “…across northern parishes.″

Keim says it’s not atypical to receive this type of arctic blast at this time of the year.

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There’s a push at this week’s Louisiana High School Athletic Association annual convention to allow schools in the “select” divisions, generally private schools, the ability to choose their own championship game locations. Teurlings Catholic principal Mike Boyer says ideally, “select” teams could host the championship at the higher seeded team’s home field to save on stadium rental costs.

Cut 10 (10) “non-revenue sports”

The move was inspired in part by disappointing revenue for high schools in the 2017 state football championships, a year where the cost to rent the Superdome increased significantly.

Opponents argue that would likely mean student-athletes from select schools would not have the chance to play at big, nationally recognized venues for their championship games. LHSAA executive director Eddie Bonine says depriving select school kids of a trip to the Superdome is wrong

Cut 11 (11) “…argument wise.”

The other “split division sports” include baseball, softball, and girls and boys basketball, and they all have predetermined championship venues.

Boyer says he understands the argument about keeping kids out of the dome, but believes students are not motivated by the venue, they’re motivated by the title.

Cut 12 (07) “…might be.”

Many select schools have indicated that they do not think they need the rest of the LHSAA to hold a select school vote on the matter, but Bonnie disagrees. He says the whole argument is a moot point, because the constitution of the LHSAA would prevent such an action.

Cut 13 (09) “…gonna play.”

The convention begins today and a vote on the proposal to separate championship venues will take place Friday.

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Lawsuits have been filed against the NFL over Sunday’s NFC Championship game. New Orleans Attorney Frank D’Amico says the non pass interference call in the final two minutes of regulation was egregious and demands recourse…

Cut 14 (10) “…courts by Monday.”

An NFL rule gives NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell the  authority to call the two teams back to the Superdome and resume the game from the point where the penalty should have been called. D’Amico says that’s the goal of his suit…

Cut 15 (10) “…from that point.”

D’Amico says the legal action is not a stretch as the no-call appeared to be a deliberate action and an example of a business not operating fairly by its customers.

Cut 16 (14) “…not doing so..″

A Lafayette attorney is seeking an injunction to stop the Super Bowl. Legal analysts say these suits are not expected to be successful.

Governor Edwards has penned a letter to Goodell, expressing his disappointment with the outcome of the game as well.  Edwards said while he doubts Goodell will change the outcome of the game, he suggested Goodell and owners should make sure there is some recourse on the field to make sure this doesn’t happen again.

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The 25th ranked LSU men’s basketball team shoots for its eighth straight victory tonight when they host Georgia. The Tigers are 4-0 in league play, while the Bulldogs are 1-and-4. But Coach Will Wade says his team better not be complacent tonight…

 cut 17 (18)   “..play better” 

Wade says his team is playing with great rhtyem during this seven-game winning streak and the chemistry is great too…

Cut 18 (16)  get better” 

LSU enters this game ranked 25th in the country. It’s the first time they’ve been in the Top 25 since November. Wade says when you start receiving national recognition, you can’t let off the gas pedal…

Cut 19 (20)   “…first go around”

The bayou burglary during the NFC Championship game has resulted in a Covington eye doctor’s social media post going viral. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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The NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell could call for a re-do of Sunday’s NFC Championship game. Jeff Palermo reports the league’s rule book…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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A Covington optometrist has seen a social media post spread like wildfire after yesterday’s bayou burglary.  The eye doctor made the post following the controversy that cost the black and gold a chance at the Super Bowl.  Dr. Jeff Anastasio says he initially did it to get a few laughs.

Cut 3 (11) “…going through now.”

Anastasio says although initially posted in jest, the offer still stands for NFL referees, but he doesn’t seem to believe too many will take him up on the offer.

Cut 4 (07) “…of next season.″

Anastasio says other than yesterday’s fiasco, he still believes overall the refs do a decent job.

Cut 5 (12) “…it was blatant.”

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Can we expect the use of replay expanded in the NFL after the league admits the refs missed a pass interference call in the final two minutes of regulation in Sunday’s NFC Championship game? NFL Analyst Mike Detillier says using instant replay to review penalties will be discussed by the league’s owners, but how much to expand could be a sticking point

Cut 6 (08) “…on a play.”

According to the Washington Post, the NFL competition committee will look to make pass interference reviewable when it meets this offseason. But Detillier is not expecting a quick change to the rule book…

Cut 7 (12) “…the NFL”

The report also says the competition committee will consider other calls that coaches feel should be subject to a review. Saints quarterback Drew Brees said after Sunday’s devastating loss that he doesn’t know how far the potential expanded use of instant replay should go…

Cut 8 (11) “…that was P-I.”

(It would take 75-percent of the owners to approve changes to the NFL video review system.)

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President Donald Trump is offering three years of legal protection for immigrants brought to America as children in exchange for 5.7 billion dollars in wall funding, in the latest bid to end the month long government shutdown. Democrats refused the deal, citing their opposition to the border wall expansion, but Senator John Kennedy says that item is non-negotiable.

Cut 9 (08) “oclock″

In September of 2017, the President rescinded legal protections for those “DREAMers” implemented by the Obama Administration.

Kennedy, who backs the border wall construction, says it’s a deal he supports, and if enough Democrats get on board, he’d vote for it and end the shutdown.

Cut 10 (06) “…progress.

Democrats in the House have passed a spending bill that would reopen the government, a bill that includes 1.3 billion for enhance border security, but not for physical wall construction. Kennedy says he hopes the offer can peel off a few of them.

Cut 11 (10) “the table.”

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The belief among many in the Bayou State is that the Saints had to beat the Rams and refs to win the NFC Championship game. The non-pass interference call in the final two minutes of regulation goes down as one of the worst no calls in sports. Saints defensive end Cam Jordan says he’s used to not getting the calls

Cut 12 (11)   “…the Saints”

Before the controversial no call, it appeared wide receiver Ted Ginn Junior made a catch to set up the Saints for a game winning score. Ginn says he gets no solace that the NFL has admitted it blew the call

Cut 13 (07) “…what is is.”