The state Department of Education has changed regulations for low income families to be eligible for federal childcare assistance. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn” 

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UL Lafayette announces the expansion of their Louisiana Legacy Scholarship. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Only three days remain in the special session, and it still remains to be seen how much, if any, of the rainy day fund lawmakers will tap to close a $304 million deficit. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The state Department of Education has changed requirements for the Child Care Assistance Program, which provides federal funds so low income families can pay for child care while going to work or school. Assistant Superintendent of Early Childhood Jenna Conway says they received feedback from families about previous regulations and decided it was time to make some improvements.

Cut 4  (10) “in class”

Conway says previously, there were very strict regulations where families were required to work at least 30 hours a week to receive to be eligible for childcare assistance. She says this program is so important because Louisiana has many working families that are in need of childcare.

Cut 5  (11)  “and thrive”

Families with special needs children who work at least 15 hours a week are now eligible to receive childcare funds. Conway says they are also raising the bar for childcare programs in the state to better prepare kids for kindergarten.

Cut 6 (10) “and grow”

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The University of Louisiana at Lafayette announces the expansion of their Louisiana Legacy Scholarship. Vice President for Enrollment Management Dr. DeWayne Bowie (BOO-ee) says the scholarship is designed to bring out of state students with Louisiana ties back to the state. He says the scholarship covers out of state fees for these students.

Cut 7 (09)  “huge saving”‘

Bowie says the scholarship is typically for out of state students with parents who graduated from UL-Lafayette, but they’ve expanded it to children of alums of any Louisiana university. He says even though many Louisiana alum end up leaving, some of their children still consider the Bayou State home.

Cut 8 (10) “Louisiana school”

Bowie says they’re optimistic that even in the face of rising tuition and cuts to higher education, this scholarship could attract more out of state students back to Louisiana. He says they want to show these students what their school has to offer.

Cut 9 (07)  “worldwide”

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A 30-day closed season for crabbing begins today in the Bayou State. Crustacean Program Manager for Marine Fisheries at LDWF Jeff Marx says the crab population is down in Louisiana. He says they’re hoping this ban will help boost the crab population because we’re not seeing as many crabs as usual.

Cut 10 (11) “very high”

Marx says this is one of the slower periods in the year for crabbing, which is why they chose this time of year to implement the ban. He notes that the 30-day ban will be in effect beginning the third Monday of February every year until 2019. He says there is also a year round ban on harvesting immature female crabs.

Cut 11 (12) “some of the fishermen”

Marx says the ban comes as a result of recommendations made by the crab task force, which includes fishermen, docks, and crab processors. He says this will also give LDWF a chance to do what they can to help increase the crab population.

Cut 12 (11) “left out there”

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There’s three days left in the special session and the big argument continues to be over how much money to use from the rainy day fund to address the $304 million budget shortfall. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says Governor John Bel Edwards recommended using $119 million, but House Republicans only support using 75-million in rainy day dollars and deeper cuts to reduce state spending.

Cut 13 (10) “next year”

The Senate approved it’s own version of the budget cut bill last night and it includes 99-million dollars from the rainy day fund. It takes a two-thirds vote of the legislature to use rainy day money and Senate finance chairman Eric LaFleur says the votes are not there to use that much money..

Cut 14 (11) “to start with”

It will likely take a committee made up of House and Senate members to iron out a compromise on the two bills. Pinsonat says based on the polling he’s done, the public supports the Republicans’ effort to cut back on state spending.

Cut 15 (10) “pay a price”

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Coach Paul Mainieri says the opening weekend to the 2017 season could not have gone any better for the 2nd ranked Tigers. On Saturday, LSU swept a doubleheader from Army, highlighted by Jared Poche’s no-hitter. On Sunday, the Tigers took down Air Force 10-3. Mainieri says the ceremonies to honor our military and law enforcement were also excellent

Cut 16 (20) “I’ve been here”

Mainieri says he was also impressed with how Army and Air Force competed…

Cut 17 (20)  “the end “

LSU’s pitchers only allowed two earned runs in the three games and the Tigers crossed the plate 25 times during the three games. Senior second baseman Cole Freeman led the way with six hits and two doubles….

Cut 18 (16) “played tremendous”

Tigers junior right fielder Greg Deichmann hit two home runs and likes how freshmen Josh Smith and Jake Slaughter swung the bats…

Cut 19 (18)   “this weekend”

The state’s plan for spending the first round of federal flood assistance has been approved by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Louisiana Office of Tourism is encouraging Louisianans to use the hashtag #OnlyInLouisiana to promote tourism. Don Molino has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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The US Department of Housing and Urban Development has approved the state’s plan for spending the first $438 million approved for Louisiana flood recovery. The governor’s Deputy Chief of Staff Julie Baxter Payer says the next step is for HUD to do grant agreements and open a line of credit for the state.

Cut 3 (12) “going on”

Payer says some of this assistance will go to small business owners who were impacted. But she says most of it will help low income families who are elderly or disabled and did not have flood insurance.

cut 4  (10) “were renters”

Payer says an additional $1.2 billion was approved by Congress in December that will go to other affected homeowners. She says they gathered public input on the plan for allocating that round of federal aid and are ready to submit the plan to HUD for approval.

Cut 5  (12)  “that are allowed”

The governor is requesting an additional $2 billion in flood assistance, and there are reports of a meeting between John Bel Edwards and President Donald Trump on February 24^th.

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The House has spent all day discussing how deep the cuts should be to the budget to address a 304 million dollar budget deficit. Democratic New Orleans Representative Walt Leger supports using 119-million dollars from the rainy day fund to prevent deep cuts to the department of health…

Cut 6 (06) “the budget”

But Republican Prairieville Representative Tony Bacala says it’s not okay to keep dipping into the Rainy Day Fund whenever the state faces a shortfall.

CUT 7 (10)  “use”

Republicans want to avoid tapping the Rainy Day fund again or use less than what the governor recommends. Instead they prefer to cut state spending, because another large revenue shortfall is expected next fiscal year. Baton Rouge Representative Patricia Smith reminds GOP legislators that deep reductions to the budget will impact the public.

Cut 8 (07) “somebody needs”

Bacala says the state is spending more than it receives in tax revenues, which is why he prefers cutting the budget, before using one-time money to pay for recurring expenses..

Cut 9 (09)  “look at”

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The Louisiana Office of Tourism has launched a new social media campaign to get Louisianans to promote tourism in our state. Lt Governor Billy Nungesser says the hashtag #OnlyInLouisiana allows residents to be tourism ambassadors for the Bayou State because no one can tell our story better than Louisianans.

Cut 10 (12) “their hometown”

Like many state agencies, tourism is facing budget cuts amid a midyear budget shortfall. Nungesser says we just don’t have the money to promote tourism in every corner of the state, which is why this effort is so important.

cut 11 (07) “they deserve”

Nungesser says people can sign up to become ambassadors at LouisianaTravel.com/ambassador. He says ambassadors will receive stickers to help promote Louisiana tourism. He says they want to make marketing the Bayou State as much fun as possible.

cut 12 (09) “to the world”

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Parkway High School in Bossier City has fired David Feaster as head football coach, after making a statement on a radio station saying Alabama coaches are not allowed on campus to recruit players. The school’s principal did not like that Feaster was making rules for the school. KTBS TV Sports Director Tatum Everett says Feaster’s firing comes as a shock.

Cut 13 (10) “successful“

Feaster claims the ban has been in place for the last four years after he didn’t like the way the Crimson Tide try to recruit Brandon Harris. Everett says Feaster still remains a math teacher at Parkway. She says many previous players have voiced their disapproval of Feaster’s termination.

cut 14 (11) “mistake”

While Feaster has had success on the football field, he has been a lightning rod because of other previous controversial statements. Everett says the school believed that Feaster was not worth the success he brought to the program with the kind of negative attention he also brought. She says Feaster’s first order of business after receiving the news was talking to his players.

Cut 15 (10) “be okay”

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Ahead of his second expulsion hearing, Napoleonville Senator Troy Brown announces his resignation from the Louisiana Senate. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty” 

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It’s Coach “O” Day in Lafourche Parish! Emelie Gunn has more on the festivities for LSU’s Head football coach Ed Orgeron…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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It’s NBA All-Star weekend in New Orleans again! Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Today the state House will decide how much, if any, of the rainy day fund to use to close a $304 million budget shortfall. New Orleans Representative Walt Leger says lawmakers passed a budget last year describing what they want to accomplish for the people of Louisiana, and it’s the legislature’s responsibility to meet those promises. He says the best way to accomplish that would be to use 119-million dollars from the rainy day fund.

Cut 4  (10) “rainy day funds”

Leger says the rainy day fund was created for this purpose, to deal with shortfalls. He says some lawmakers have proposed additional cuts without consulting the agencies that would be affected. He says some of the proposals would have major implications for Louisianans.

Cut 5  (09)  “additional reductions”

A bill up for debate today on the House floor would use $74 million from the state’s savings account, but Baton Rouge Representative Rick Edmonds co-authored a bill that would use no rainy day dollars to close the budget gap. He says after some investigating, he found areas in state government that can be cut to reduce the shortfall.

Cut 6 (11) “any of that”

Edmonds’ bill is also up for debate today on the House floor. He says he understands that no cuts are easy, but lawmakers have a responsibility to balance the budget.

Cut 7 (08)  “hurt anyone”‘

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Today is Coach “O” Day in Lafourche Parish to honor LSU’s new head football coach Ed Orgeron. Orgeron is a native of Larose, where an event will be held at the local civic center at 6:00 p.m. Member of the planning committee, Larry Weidel, says Orgeron, better known as BaBa, was a hometown football star back in his day.

Cut 8 (10) “can understand”

Weidel says during the banquet, Orgeron’s high school football jersey will be retired and fellow members of the 1977 South LaFourche High School football team will be recognized for winning the state championship. He says the event has over 90 sponsors and over a thousand tickets were sold.  

Cut 9 (08)  “busy night”

Weidel says the biggest takeaway from Coach “O” Day, is the development of a non-profit organization that will donate all the money collected to charities in Lafourche Parish.

Cut 10 (08) “back home”

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It is once again NBA All-star weekend in the Big Easy. President and CEO of the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation Jay Cicero says they didn’t have much time to plan because they only found out they were hosting last year. The event was moved from Charlotte, North Carolina, in light of an anti-LGBT law that was enacted last year.

Cut 11 (12) “a chance”

This is the third time in 9 years that New Orleans has hosted all-star game, which is a record return rate. Cicero says the big game takes place on Sunday in the Smoothie King Center, but there will be plenty of festivities all weekend.

Cut 12 (11) “their superstars”

Cicero says there’s also the three-point and dunk contests on Saturday night. He says this event had a $106 million economic impact for the state when New Orleans last hosted in 2014. He says even more important is the media exposure, which could have a tremendous impact on tourism.

Cut 13 (12) “New Orleans”

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After much ado at the state capitol over attempts to expel Napoleonville Senator Troy Brown, he said in a press conference it is with great sadness that he resigns from the Senate. He says for as long as he could remember, he desired to serve his district and the people of Louisiana. 

Cut 14 (08) “Louisiana Senate”

Brown was facing an expulsion hearing on Monday, and the embattled senator says it is readily apparent a fair hearing from his peers will not transpire. He says his colleagues rejected the most basic notion of being held to the laws and constitution they were sworn to uphold, most importantly our fundamental due process.

Cut 15 (10) “constitutional rights”

Brown adds that there was pressure from the Senate body for him to resign. He says he did not go to trial for either of his two domestic violence convictions, instead entering no contest pleas, to spare his family from the ordeal of a trial. He says that’s also why he’s resigning from the Senate.

Cut 16 (09) “further embarrassment”

The resignation comes amid hearings on the Senate floor to expel or suspend Brown following his second conviction of domestic abuse.

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A highly anticipated college baseball season gets underway tonight for the second ranked LSU Tigers as they host Air Force at 7 PM. Coach Paul Mainieri brings back a veteran team that will also feature a few freshmen who are expected to do great things. Mainieri says he can’t wait to get it started….

Cut 17 (21)  “excited “

Alex Lange will start on the mound for the Tigers. The junior right-hander will make his first opening day start and he says he’s had butterflies in his stomach all week…

Cut 18 (11) “season again”

LSU’s best power hitter will be in the line-up tonight, even though he had surgery on Sunday to fix a suffered a fracture cheekbone after taking a pitch to his face. Deichmann says he’s good to go, despite missing a few days of practice thsi week…

Cut 19 (16)   “couple days”

The campaign for Governor John Bel Edwards’ re-election announces he raised $3.6 million in 2016. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Former LSU star running back Leonard Fournette is now partnering with New Orleans based Life10 Electrolyte water. Michelle Southern has more on his endorsement….

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Governor John Bel Edwards re-election campaign announces he raised $3.6 million in campaign funds during his first year in office. According to finance reports, the governor ended 2016 with $3.2 million on hand. UL-Lafayette political science professor Pearson Cross says it’s an impressive haul for Edwards’ first year.

Cut 3 (12) “in 2019”

Despite budget problems, floods and civil unrest from a police shooting, the governor has maintained a high approval rating. Cross says being well liked helps while raising money.

cut 4  (08) “everybody’s friend”

Edwards’ could face Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry in his 2019 re-election bid. Landry’s campaign finance reports show he’s raised just under $900-thousand with $544-thousand on hand. Cross says as soon as Landry officially enters the race, his fundraising will rise quickly.

Cut 5  (11)  “sitting governor”

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Louisiana State Police is ramping up enforcement in New Orleans for 2017 Carnival season and this weekend’s NBA All-Star Game. Trooper Melissa Matey says LSP will send 165 troopers to the Crescent City. She says plain clothes troopers will also be along parade routes looking for individuals with illegal weapons.

Cut 6 (10) “the past”

Matey says law enforcement relies heavily on information from the public. She advises parade goers and those celebrating during Mardi Gras or attending All-Star festivities, to come forward and say something to police if you see suspicious activity.

CUT 7 (10)  “know”

Matey says it’s a good idea to keep important information and valuables in your front pocket while walking in the French Quarter to deter pickpockets. She also says avoiding excessive alcohol intake is always a good idea…

Cut 8 (09) “safe decisions”

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Former LSU star running back Leonard Fournette has signed an endorsement-partnership deal with New Orleans based Life10 Electrolyte beverage. Fournette is represented by sports agency Roc Nation and its President of Branding Michael Yormark says Fournette is excited to support a local product he believes in…

Cut 9 (08)  “post workout”

Yorkmark says through the partnership, Fournette owns a small part of the company. He says the all-star athlete could’ve gone with the Gatorades of the world but chose a local brand to promote.

Cut 10 (08) “the vision”

Life10 Electrolyte water is filled with calcium, potassium, magnesium, chloride and sodium. Yorkmark says Fournette has great potential to be a wonderful brand ambassador.

cut 11 (09) “very engaging”

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Baton Rouge Representative Steve Carter says letting the public decide whether to increase the gas tax to raise funds for traffic relief projects would be one option. He says a 23 cent tax is a possible solution in coming up with the $700 million; and leaders in the Capitol City are looking at what that money could go to…:

cut 12 (08) “needed”

Carter says they can either bring the measure to raise the gas tax out right to lawmakers, or put it to a vote of the people. He says asking a Republican dominated legislature would likely push back against such a bill…:

Cut 13 (10) “vote of the people“

Carter says these types of proposals would have to be brought during the regular session that begins in April. He says the Baton Rouge delegation wants to see most of that money go to projects including a new Mississippi River Bridge and the widening of I-10…:

cut 14 (08) “we need em bad”

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DeSoto Sheriff Rodney Arbuckle says crews have recovered two bodies from the site of a helicopter crash at Wallace Lake. He says the FAA and other agencies are investigating the circumstances of the crash itself, while DPSO is working the recovery. He says the biggest challenge is getting to the crash site.

Cut 15 (09) “build roads in here”

Arbuckle says it took over two hours to get to the helicopter yesterday, but they hope to finish the recovery by later today. He says the helicopter belongs to Terry and Pam Bailey of Center, Texas, which is just across the state line from Desoto Parish.

Cut 16  (06)  “are missing”

It’s believed the Baileys were travelling from Shreveport Downtown Airport to Center when the helicopter went down, possibly hitting several trees as there was reportedly a small fire when crews arrived at the scene.

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Governor John Bel Edwards announced his support for the Bayou Bridge Pipeline and the expulsion of state Senator Troy Brown during his monthly call in radio show. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty” 

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The National Safety Council reports motor vehicle deaths in 2016 increased six-percent from last year nationally and in Louisiana crash fatalities are up five-percent from 2014. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (27) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A bill is heading to the House floor that would use only $74 million from the rainy day fund to close a $304 million midyear deficit. Jeff Palermo reports…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Teen mothers are seeing better pregnancy and parenting outcomes thanks to a program by Children’s Coalition for Northeast Louisiana. The Jus4Me program was funded by a $50-thousand grant from United Healthcare Community Plan of Louisiana. CEO Allison Young says 89-percent of the young mothers used the health and referral services at school-based health centers regularly, which had tremendous outcomes for these mothers’ children.

Cut 4  (09) “really important”

Young says 97-percent of the mothers in the program stayed in school both during and after their pregnancies. She says 52 teen parents improved their parenting skills through weekly classes held at 6 school sites in four parishes. She says the Jus4Me program enables teen moms to come together and discuss personal issues and get support.

Cut 5  (10)  “access to”

Young says this program is vitally important to these young mothers, and United Healthcare is proud of the results they were able to achieve through this partnership with the Children’s Coalition. She says they hope to help even more teen mothers in the future.

Cut 6 (09) “in the nation”

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During his 11^th monthly call in radio show, Governor John Bel Edwards announced his support for two controversial issues in the Bayou State- the expulsion of state Senator Troy Brown and the construction of the Bayou Bridge Pipeline. Edwards says while the pipeline would only create about 12 permanent jobs, it would create more jobs during construction and job retention for others.

Cut 7 (10)  “as well”‘

The proposed pipeline would stretch across 11 parishes from Calcasieu to St. James, and it’s facing fierce opposition from environmental groups. Edwards says transporting crude through a pipeline is much safer than by train or truck. He adds that he doesn’t see a conflict between the pipeline and the state’s coastal restoration masterplan.

Cut 8 (11) “state law”

Edwards also supports the expulsion of the Napoleonville lawmaker who has been convicted of two separate domestic abuse charges. Senators could vote to expel Brown on Monday. The governor says Brown should have resigned immediately because that would have been best for him, his family, and the Senate.

Cut 9 (09)  “a dstraction”

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The National Safety Council finds motor vehicle deaths in 2016 rose 6-percent nationally from last year and in Louisiana they’ve increased by five-percent since 2014.  Ken Kolosh (Koe-lahsh(with the NSC says they blame distracted driving for the increase…

Cut 10 (10) “the concern”

Kolosh says crash fatalities could also be on the rise, because young drivers are not adequately prepared to get behind the wheel.

Cut 11 (10) “and 20”

The National Safety Council report finds that 661 died in motor-vehicle deaths in 2016, nationally the number exceeded 40-thousand for the first time since 2007.  Kolosh says another concern is alcohol related fatalities are on the rise, but there are ways lawmakers can address it…

Cut 12 (09) “drunk drivers”

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The House Appropriations Committee approves legislation that takes only $74 million from the rainy day fund, instead of the $119 million the governor recommended. The vote comes after a heated back and forth between the governor’s chief budget advisor and Republican lawmakers. Covington Representative John Schroder supports the measure.

Cut 13 (11) “period”

The budget plan that’s now heading to the House calls for cuts to prisons, colleges, and public schools, areas the governor is seeking to protect. Republican lawmakers have been pushing for reductions in state spending, but Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says the right time to reduce spending isn’t in the middle of the year.

Cut 14 (11) “as much money” (2x)

Schroder says the state is living outside its means, so the cuts have to be made. He says using one time money is irresponsible because it just kicks the can down the road, and we’ll be in the same predicament again next year.

Cut 15 (09) “the money”

But Dardenne says he can’t understand the hesitance to use the rainy day fund when the state is facing a $304 million midyear deficit, because this is exactly why the fund was created.

Cut 16 (09) “coming back” (2x)

A bill that uses no rainy day dollars was also approved, and both proposals are expected to be heard Friday on the House floor.

Thirty-nine pit bulls were scheduled to be euthanized today in Opelousas, but that will not happen because of an animal rescue group out of New Orleans. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The first hearing on the expulsion of state Senator Troy Brown was held today. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Thirty-nine pit bulls that were scheduled to be euthanized today have been rescued. Stacey Alleman with St. Landry Parish Animal Control says they made a Facebook post hoping for a miracle, and they got one in Tia Torres of Pit Bulls and Parolees. She says all of the dogs were rescued by Torres, who is also the founder of Villalobos Rescue Center in New Orleans.

Cut 3 (11) “have sanctuary”

Alleman says the dogs will still be in their custody, but Torres is providing the resources and manpower it takes to care for these animals. She says as of yesterday, the national Humane Society has stepped up to help sponsor some of these dogs.

cut 4  (10) “the longevity”

Alleman says even when things were looking grim, the community never lost hope. She says just two years ago the shelter had to put down over 96-percent of the animals they rescued, but they’ve come a long way thanks to the power of social media.

Cut 5  (11)  “of Facebook”

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The debate continues at the state capitol on whether or not to tap into the rainy day fund to address a $304 million midyear budget deficit. House Appropriations Chairman Cameron Henry opposes the use of rainy day fund and continues to push for reductions in state spending.

Cut 6 (09) “they held back”

Henry says the governor is unwilling to back off his stance of using 119-million dollars from the rainy day fund. The Republican from Jefferson Parish says many House members can’t support the governor’s plan and they won’t be forced to vote on it.

CUT 7 (11)  “down the road”

The special session ends next Wednesday and Henry says there’s still enough time to pass a responsible budget deficit elimination plan. Henry says during the negotiations they continue to propose deeper cuts to the Louisiana Department of Health, but the governor says any additional cuts would impact patients, but Henry disagrees.

Cut 8 (09) “financially disasterous”

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The first hearing on state Senator Troy Brown’s expulsion or suspension from the Upper Chamber was heard today. Resolutions have been filed seeking to reprimand Brown for his domestic violence convictions. The Napoleonville lawmaker’s lawyer, Jill Craft, requested subpoenas of lawmakers’ texts and emails…:

Cut 9 (10)  “constitution provides”

Craft requested several subpoenas and documents for members of the legislature including their criminal history, but nearly everything was rejected. She says the Senate is trying to remove a member of the body based on their assessment of a misdemeanor, but Senator Dan Claitor says that’s not what this is about…:

Cut 10 (10) “go about it”

The hearing on the expulsion proposal is slated for Monday. Senator Karen Carter Peterson said she would only agree to subpoena documents, if a member of the legislature had a similar domestic violence conviction. But Craft told Peterson the Senate has no rules for standard…:

cut 11 (11) “all here”

Craft is trying to stop a legislative hearing on the matter saying it would violate Brown’s right to due process. But state Senator JP Morrell says members of the Senate make their own rules…:

cut 12 (07) “unbecoming a Senator”

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Triple-A released their annual worst drivers on the road report and what did it find? It confirmed what many people believe, millennials are the worst on the road and the survey finds they’re more reckless than teens. AAA Spokesperson Don Redman says drivers between the ages of 19 to 24 seem to be distracted behind the wheel….

Cut 13 (10) “30 days“

Redman says although those 19 to 24 are considered the worst drivers, older motorists also admitted to engaging in dangerous behavior while driving.

cut 14 (08) “behaviors”

The report also finds millennials are more likely than anyone else to go over the speed limit by 10 to 15 miles and be high on marijuana while driving. Redman says motorists aged 19 to 24 engage in higher risk behavior more than other age groups.

Cut 15 (09) “could’ve stopped”

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The show, Murder Chose Me, airs tonight on Investigation Discovery, which tells the stories of the homicide cases solved by a former Shreveport detective. Emelie Gunn has more….

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn” 

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Community leaders say an investigation into allegations a Baton Rouge judge used racial slurs at a local restaurant is needed to uncover the truth. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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There’s no consensus yet on how to fill a 304-million dollar gap in the state’s budget. Jeff Palermo has more on the special session..

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A new show airs tonight on Investigation Discovery called Murder Chose Me that highlights the murder cases of a former Shreveport Police detective. Rod Demery’s says the show is centered around many of the homicide cases he worked in his 17 years with Shreveport PD but also some elements are woven in about why he became a detective.

Cut 4  (10) “are there”

Demery also attributes becoming a detective to his brother being convicted of murder when he was in his 20s. Demery says every one of the homicide cases featured in the show have been solved. He hopes that Murder Chose Me will humanize what goes on after a murder.

Cut 5  (10)  “real pain”

Murder Chose Me premieres tonight at 9 p.m. central time on ID. Demery says an actor reenacts how he solved different cases while he is the narrator. He says the show has been a therapeutic experience for him, knowing he can share his stories to help other people.

Cut 6 (10) “be done”

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Two separate resolutions have been filed regarding Napoleonville Senator Troy Brown, one that seeks to suspend him and another seeking his expulsion after two different domestic abuse convictions. Senate Secretary Glenn Koepp says the first hearing on this matter is this morning at 10 and the entire Senate is invited to participate, minus Brown.

Cut 7 (10)  “witness list”‘

Koepp says it’s imperative they provide due process for Brown. He says that’s why on Monday, the entire Senate will meet for another hearing, where Brown will have a chance to make his case against punishment.

Cut 8 (11) “wanted presented”

Baton Rouge Senator Yvonne Dorsey’s resolution calls for Brown to be fined 25-hundred dollars or suspended for six weeks, while competing resolution filed by two other senators would expel him. It will take 26 of the 39 senators to agree to final resolution. Koepp says a vote could happen on one of the two resolutions on Monday when it goes to the Senate floor.

Cut 9 (07)  “committee hearing”

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Black community leaders are calling for an investigation into allegations that Baton Rouge Judge Mike Erwin used racial slurs against a woman at a local restaurant. Kaneitra Johnson of Baton Rouge posted on Facebook saying Erwin called her by the n-word at Sammy’s Grill, but no other witnesses have come forward. Community activist Daniel Banguel says the matter still needs to be investigated.

Cut 10 (07) “came forth”

Erwin issued a statement saying he never has, never would, and never will use the language he is accused of saying. But Banguel says the owners of Sammy’s have since banned Erwin from all of their restaurants.

Cut 11 (10) “from the restaurant”

If Johnson has filed a complaint with the Louisiana Judiciary Commission as her attorney’s claim, the matter could go all the way to the Louisiana Supreme Court. Banguel says some are questioning the truth behind the allegations because Johnson has gone before Erwin for a traffic case once before.

Cut 12 (09) “that night”

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Legislation that authorizes the use of the rainy day fund to address a 304-million dollar midyear budget deficit is heading to the Senate floor. Senate President John Alario says dipping into the state’s savings account will stave off cuts to colleges, public schools and child services programs…

Cut 13 (11) “get hurt”

Much of the work at the State Capitol on Tuesday happened behind closed doors. Lawmakers negotiated with the governor over using the rainy day fund versus cutting the budget. Alario says there’s a block of republican lawmakers who want to to reduce state spending

Cut 14 (09) “the difference”

Republican House Appropriations Chair Cameron Henry told the Associated Press the negotiating sessions are not exactly moving smoothly. Legislative leaders and the governor are expected to meet again Wednesday. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says neither side wants to give in

Cut 15 (10) “go on”

Severe weather is a possibility tonight in south Louisiana. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The woman who accidentally uploaded a nude video to the Webster Parish Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Instagram account is taking legal action. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Couples around the country and across the Bayou State celebrate their love this Valentine’s Day in a variety of ways. Offers.com analyzed gift related keywords based on the increase in February versus the rest of the year to determine the most popular Valentine’s Day items. Kerry Sherin with Offers.com says they took a look at what’s at the top of Louisianans’ wish lists.

Cut 3 (09) “Valentine’s Day”

Sherin says drop earrings and white gold chains for men rounded out the top five gifts. She says unlike the rest of the country, Louisianans want daisies for Valentine’s Day, instead of roses. She says we also have different taste in holiday candy.

cut 4  (08) “whatever it is”

Sherin says Louisianans won’t need to fight the crowds or make dinner reservations this year. She says like most of the country, a night at home will do in the Bayou State.

Cut 5  (09)  “and relax”

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South Louisiana could face the possibility of more severe weather this afternoon and into tonight. State climatologist Barry Keim says the radar shows a strong line of storms moving in from Texas.

Cut 6 (09) “more tornadoes”

Keim says the Storm Prediction Center has much of south Louisiana under a slight risk for severe weather, and central Louisiana is facing a marginal risk. He says this event doesn’t look quite as severe as what we saw last week, but as we saw then, things can change quickly.

CUT 7 (09)  “about this one”

Keim says once the storm pushes through, there will be a slight drop in temperatures, but nothing like the freeze we saw last month. He says despite it still technically being winter, the weather feels more like spring in the Bayou State.

Cut 8 (11) “are very spring-like”

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The former Executive Director of the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau is taking legal action after she was terminated Monday. The firing comes after 61-year-old Lynn Dorsey accidentally posted a risqué video to the CVB’s Instagram account. Dorsey’s attorney, Lydia Rhodes, says they plan to go to court and make a case for a breach of contract.

Cut 9 (07)  “working from”

Rhodes says that contract was through the end of this calendar year. Dorsey said in December when the nude video went live online that it was intended for her husband. Rhodes says they also have a few issues with the way the matter proceeded with the commission.

Cut 10 (10) “with Mrs. Dorsey”

Rhodes says Dorsey had been with the CVB for 12 years. She says they are looking at their legal options because the stakeholders in this incident are the people in the tourism industry, and they are the ones who will be impacted.

cut 11 (10) “that community”

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Two Florida residents have been arrested on multiple counts of fraud and theft after repeatedly swiping several access cards to purchase large amounts of gift cards at Lowe’s in Baton Rouge. Sgt. L’Jean McKneely says a retired police officer was at the store and noticed this common practice of fraud so he immediately contacted the authorities.

cut 12 (11) “of fraud”

McKneely says 36-year-old Jayson Carter and 17-year-old Mardashia Harris, both of Florida, were arrested. He says authorities believe the two are part of a ring…

Cut 13 (09) “possible ring“

McKneely says Carter and Harris were found with multiple cards with the same name…

cut 14 (10) “fake cards”

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A Benton couple has once again been honored as Louisiana’s longest known married couple. Don Molino has more…

Cut 1 (27) “I’m Don Molino” 

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Two state Senators file a resolution to expel Napoleonville Senator Troy Brown after being convicted of two separate domestic abuse charges. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Governor Edwards kicked-off the special session by explaining to legislators why it’s important to use rainy day dollars to address a 304-million dollar budget deficit. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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For the third straight year, a couple from Bossier Parish is known as the longest known married couple in the state. Louisiana Family Forum President Gene Mills says 103-year-old Lawrence Player and 97-year-old Varrie Player of Benton have been married for 82 years and they celebrated the terrific accomplishment this past weekend with a cake.

Cut 4  (10) “great grandchildren”

Mills says the Players were married on January 27, 1935 and they have no intention of slowing down. He says they shared some of their secrets for a long lasting marriage.

Cut 5  (09)  “by themselves”

Every year Louisiana Family Forum honors the top ten longest married couples in the state. Mills says Will Henry and Virginia Teasley of Bienville Parish are this year’s runners up, married for 80 years. He says Virginia is in hospice care, so on the way to Benton they stopped in to visit and deliver a king cake.

Cut 6 (11) “for a lifetime”

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A resolution has been filed for the special session that seeks to expel Napleonville Senator Troy Brown from the legislature, because of two recent domestic abuse convictions. Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt filed the measure along with Baton Rouge Senator Dan Claitor. Hewitt says anytime an elected official breaks the law, it erodes the public’s trust in all elected leaders.

Cut 7 (08)  “Senator Brown”‘

Hewitt says it’s time that we raise the standards for what we expect from our elected officials. She says for too long we’ve been tolerant of elected leaders who’ve been guilty of corruption, scandal, and general disregard for the citizens they were chosen to represent.

Cut 8 (10) “elected leaders”

Claitor says the Louisiana Constitution allows the legislature to discipline members, and it happens in the form of a resolution. He expects the first hearing will occur within two or three days, and in a week the committee will have another hearing with evidence and testimony, before it goes to the floor.

Cut 9 (11)  “ought to go”

It will take 26 out of 39 votes to expel the senator. Brown issued a statement last month saying expulsion is the political equivalent to execution. He went on to say that only 8 states have ever expelled a Senator, and it was always over more serious matters.

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On the opening night of the special session, Governor John Bel Edwards laid out his reasons on why the state legislature should use 119-million dollars from the rainy day fund to address a 304-million dollar shortfall. Edwards says without using it, cuts will likely have to be made to higher education, public schools and social services like foster care

Cut 10 (06) “public service”

Edwards says the Rainy Day fund was tapped four times during former Governor Bobby Jindal’s administration. There’s concern by some lawmakers of draining the fund down to zero, but Edwards says that won’t happen thanks to BP settlement dollars

Cut 11 (09) “budget stabilization fund ”

There have been several Republican lawmakers who have advocated for more cuts to the budget. Edwards says if here’s there’s another option out there, let’s discuss it…

Cut 12 (11) “proposals”

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A new website seeks to reduce wasteful spending in state government. Covington Representative John Schroder launched StopLouisianaWaste.com to allow individuals to anonymously report state government waste.

Cut 13 (08) “the case”

Schroder says given the state’s budget problems, lawmakers have to make sure they’re spending every penny of taxpayer money wisely. He says he will personally investigate each incident and provide the information to the proper agency.

Cut 14 (06) “anonymously”

Schroder stresses that people can post to the website anonymously. He says he’s interested to see what people will say in private that they wouldn’t say in public.

Cut 15 (09) “to do”

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Quarterback Brandon Harris is looking for a new school. The one-time starting Q-B for the Tigers says he’s transferring and head coach Ed Orgeron will allow Harris to transfer to any school he chooses. Tiger Rag Associate Editor James Moran says this is not a surprise, since Danny Etling is the likely starting signal caller in 2017

Cut 16 (06) “next year”

Harris started the first two games of the 2016 season, but was benched during the Jacksonville State game. He appeared in just four games on the season and threw for only 139 yards after starting all 12 games in his sophomore campaign. Moran says if Harris wants to play, he needs to find another school…

Cut 17 (13)  “terribly surprising “

Moran says with Harris’ departure it opens the door for three other quarterbacks, who will compete in the spring, to battle for the number two spot in the depth chart….

Cut 18 (21) “make a case”

The third special session begins tonight, on the eve of the anniversary of the first one called by Governor John Bel Edwards. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A poison that would kill wild hogs could soon make its way to Louisiana. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Tonight Louisiana lawmakers will convene for their third special session in just one year, as they attempt to resolve a $304 million midyear budget deficit. ULM political science professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says one of the biggest battles will be whether or not to tap into the rainy day fund, and how much. He says if they do not use the fund, lawmakers will face tough decisions.

Cut 3 (08) “state services”

The governor supports using the fund, but it has gotten pushback from some Republican lawmakers. But Stockley says there appears to be enough support from the GOP to tap into the state’s savings account.

cut 4  (12) “being underfunded”

It will take a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate for the legislature to use the rainy day fund. Stockley says whether or not the votes are there remains to be seen.

Cut 5  (07)  “it seems”

The special session begins tonight at 6:30 p.m. and must end by midnight on February 22.

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A new website has launched that seeks to help Louisianans find jobs in the restaurant industry. Wendy Waren with the Louisiana Restaurant Association says LouisianaHospitalityJobs.com is designed to meet the needs of the state’s ever-expanding hospitality sector.

Cut 6 (09) “currently filled”

Waren says Louisiana has 83-hundred restaurants and bars, which employ more than 205-thousand workers. She says the site currently has 500 available positions. She says they are excited to connect employers with their ProStart program, which helps people without restaurant experience get the training they need to embark on this career path.

CUT 7 (11)  “college level”

Waren says while the site helps employers fill vacancies with competent workers, it’s also a huge help to those looking to find the right job for them.

Cut 8 (10) “industry-based certifications”

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A school bus overturned in St. Helena Parish this morning, sending dozens of children to area hospitals. State Trooper Dustin Dwight says the bus was travelling on LA 43 about to make a left hand turn near Greensburg when it was hit by another vehicle.

Cut 9 (10)  “left turn”

Dwight says the impact caused the bus to overturn on its right side. He says all of the children on the bus were transported to local hospitals for evaluation, some by Acadian Ambulance and other by their parents.

Cut 10 (08) “injuries reported”

Dwight says the drivers of both the school bus and the other vehicle were taken to hospitals. He says the investigation is ongoing, and they do anticipate traffic charges on the driver of the Chevy Silverado. He says this goes to show the importance of making safe decisions behind the wheel.

cut 11 (08) “were fortunate”

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A poison that would kill wild hogs could soon be available in Louisiana. The population of the feral animal is nearly 700,000 and they are a major nuisance in many areas of the state. Jim LaCour is a veterinarian with LDWF. He says the Environmental Protection Agency has approved a product called Kaput…:

cut 12 (07) “consecutive days”

LaCour says more tests are needed before they’ll use Kaput here because the major concern is that other non-target animals, especially the Louisiana Black Bear, could eat it and die. He says the bears were recently removed from the federal Endangered Species List…:

Cut 13 (07) “especially“

Kaput will be released to the public in Texas in May. LaCour says the poison would be placed in a feeder, and you basically have to train the hogs how to open the door. He says raccoons are very strong and could also get inside the feeder, so it’s not that LDWF isn’t in favor of using an effective bait-poison…:

cut 14 (10) “in the state”

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Phillips 66 says the fire at the Paradis Pipeline Station in St. Charles Parish is finally out. Company spokesperson Dennis Nuss says the blaze was extinguished this morning…

Cut 15 (06) “is investigated”

A missing worker from Thursday’s blast is presumed dead. He’s been identified as Josh Helms. Nuss says this remains a difficult time Phillips 66…

Cut 16  (07)  “thoughts and prayers”