State lawmakers are moving close to agreeing to a plan that would close a 304-million dollar midyear budget deficit. Jeff Palermo has the story…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

Restaurant Brands International, the owner of Burger King, has placed a 1.8 billion dollar bid to buy Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

In the final two days of the special session, lawmakers are close to reaching a compromise on how many rainy day dollars to use versus what cuts to make to resolve a $304 million midyear deficit. The Senate approved a plan that would tap $99 million from the state’s savings account. Senate President John Alario says it’s a fair compromise that would protect vital services from deep cuts.

Cut 3 (08) “of this state”

While $99 million is far short of the $119 million the governor requested, it is more than the $74 million House Republicans wanted. The deal hinges on a plan by House Speaker Taylor Barras that would free up statutory dedicated funds in the future, including about $97 million next year. Barras’ bill would not affect the current deficit, but it’s what Republicans say it will take to get their vote for using 99 million rainy day dollars. Alario is wary this proposal would take dollars away from the Transportation Trust Fund and TOPS.

cut 4  (08) “make it work”

Alario says if $99 million rainy day dollars were used, it would mean a $60 million cut to the Department of Health and budget reductions for some statewide elected officials, including Attorney General Jeff Landry. Alario is hopeful lawmakers are close to reaching a compromise.

Cut 5  (07)  “under that assumption”

Alario says if everything goes well, things could wrap up around noon tomorrow, but he’s not packing his bags just yet. The special session must end by midnight on Wednesday.

_________________________________________________________

A Baton Rouge contractor is now facing a slew of charges in multiple parishes after allegedly scamming dozens of August flood victims. Baton Rouge Police say the owner of Complete Construction, Matthew Morris, was arrested this morning for home improvement fraud, felony theft, theft of assets of an aged person, and exploitation of the infirmed.  Legal analyst Tim Meche says there’s a chance Morris won’t serve any jail time.

Cut 6 (11) “some jail time”

Today’s arrest comes less than two weeks after Morris was booked in Ascension Parish after 13 flood victims claimed he overcharged them and failed to complete work. Morris is also wanted in Walker and Livingston Parish on charges of residential fraud and theft of assets of an aged person. Meche says the Attorney General will likely consolidate Morris’ charges.

CUT 7 (09)  “these cases”

Meche encourages flood victims who have dealt with Morris to contact authorities and file a complaint about any questionable behavior. He says unfortunately these arrests aren’t shocking because we typically see this kind of fraud after disasters.

Cut 8 (10) “to see this happening”

_________________________________________________________

The owners of Burger King could soon be in the fried chicken market, as Restaurant Brands International says they’re buying Popeyes for 1.8 billion dollars. The company also owns the coffee shop chain, Tim Horton’s. Tulane Business Professor Dr. Mark Rosa says it’s obvious Restaurant Brands International sees a bright future in Popeyes.

Cut 9 (09)  “healthy premium”

Rosa says around the globe, everyone recognizes Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen as a place to get fried chicken that tastes like it’s home cooked. He says Popeyes recently revamped their brand to potentially attract a larger restaurant chain, and it appears it worked.

Cut 10 (04) “aggressively”

Popeyes started in New Orleans in 1972. Rosa believes Restaurant Brands International will aggressively expand Popeyes to get a big return on their investment.

cut 11 (09) “like it”

_________________________________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards orders a full investigation into trips made by State Police officers, amid a report 4 troopers took side excursions during a business trip on the taxpayer’s dime. The Division of Administration’s auditor will conduct the probe. Political analyst Clancy Dubos…:

cut 12 (10) “will show”

In response to the allegations against the troopers in question, Col Mike Edmonson announced a number of disciplinary actions and policy changes that will take place. Dubos says it will be interesting to see what happens following the Governor’s investigation as obviously the buck stops with the man in charge…:

Cut 13 (11) “happen“

The Governor’s Office says their investigation will also look at trips dating back to the previous administration. Dubos says considering Louisiana’s current financial troubles, this incident doesn’t look good for anybody in state government…:

cut 14 (11) “the consequences”

________________________________________________________

The former Avoyelles Correctional Center’s business manager has turned herself in after being indicted on charges of malfeasance, theft, and injuring public records. Tonia Cain is the wife of former-Avoyelles Warden Nate Cain, who is the eldest son of former-Angola Warden Burl Cain. Avoyelles District Attorney Charles Riddle says a warrant for her arrest was issued after her January indictment.

Cut 15 (07) “in April”

Tonia Cain resigned in May 2016 amid investigations into her and her husband’s actions at the prison. A legislative audit alleges Tonia Cain told a prison employee to shred public records to hide the fact that more than $30-thousand in concession sales was missing. Riddle says his office does not tolerate acts of public corruption.

Cut 16  (06)  “lightly”

Tonia Cain’s attorney, Jill Craft, issued a statement saying, “Tonia voluntarily turned herself in and has continued to cooperate fully in this process. While we respect the process, we also look forward to presenting the facts and justice.”

________________________________________________________

The Department of Transportation needs an additional $700 million annual investment to meet the state’s transportation needs, according to DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Halen Doughty” 

______________________________________

A 56-year-old woman has been deemed a hero after jumping on a man who was attacking a Baton Rouge police officer. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

State Representative Paul Hollis has a plan to make it easier to recall a politician, and he plans to bring it up in the regular session. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (26) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

If Louisianans want better roads and bridges, the Department of Transportation will need an additional $700 million a year. That’s according to DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson, who says Louisiana is one of only five states that hasn’t adjusted its transportation revenue stream in nearly 30 years. He says that’s why Louisiana’s roads are the 8^th worst in the nation.

Cut 4  (11) “due to inflation”

Wilson says the Transportation Task Force established by the governor has made recommendations on how to raise the necessary funds to maintain and rebuild infrastructure, and one of those is a 23-cent hike on the state’s gas tax. He says currently the average Louisianan only pays $108 a year in gas taxes.

Cut 5  (11)  “always make”

Wilson says there is an appetite at the capitol to build new roads, but not to pay for them. There’s been talk of raising the gas tax by a few pennies, but Wilson says it wouldn’t be enough to cover the needs around the state. He says for every penny on the gas tax, DOTD gets about $30 million.

Cut 6 (11) “manage expectations”

Wilson says he is confident there will be a bill proposed in the regular session that looks at ways to increase funding for the state’s transportation needs.

______________________________________

The 56-year-old woman who tackled a man who was attacking a Baton Rouge Police officer on Sunday morning has been deemed a hero. Vickie Williams-Tillman was driving when she saw 28-year-old Thomas Bennett and a police officer in a physical altercation. She says she’s just so happy that she was able to help Officer Billy Amie.

Cut 7 (09)  “needed help”‘

Tillman jumped on Bennett’s back and knocked the baton out of his hand which he had taken from the officer. She says she called 911 before taking action.

Cut 8 (08) “took action”

The altercation began when Amie started to arrest Bennett. Amie says he’s so thankful for Tillman. He says she is a true hero but her actions shouldn’t have been needed…

Cut 9 (07)  “the world”

_________________________________________________________

Covington Representative Paul Hollis plans to propose a bill for the regular session that would make it easier to remove a politician from office. He says it currently takes signatures from 33-percent of a jurisdiction’s registered voters to recall a politician in Louisiana.

Cut 10 (08) “in that election”

Hollis says the current requirement makes it nearly impossible to remove a politician from a large jurisdiction. He says this was evidenced when former St. Tammany coroner Peter Galvan could not be removed, even after he was indicted for using state tax dollars for personal gain. He says that’s why his bill would only affect big districts with 25-thousand qualified voters or more.

Cut 11 (10) “it’s impossible”

There’s currently an effort to recall Jefferson Parish President Mike Yenni after a sexting scandal with 17-year-old boy. The petition expires in April and there are reports the organizers are well short of the needed number of signatures. Secretary of State Tom Schedler is open to altering the formula for removing corrupt leaders from office.

Cut 12 (09) “hasn’t been any”

_________________________________________________________

A 30-day ban on crabbing is in effect throughout the state, so what does this mean for Louisiana’s seafood industry? Chalin Delaune (Shal-in Duh-lawn) with the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board says there’s always been a closed season, but it’s typically just for two weeks while derelict traps are removed from the waters. He hopes this longer closure will revitalize Louisianans’ love for blue crabs.

Cut 13 (08) “for em”

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries says this closure will allow crabs to mature because the population is down and crabbing is on the rise. Delaune says while it may not seem like it to the crabbers, this is a good thing for the industry.

Cut 14 (11) “for the consumer”

Delaune doesn’t expect a huge blue crab shortage in the Bayou State during the 30-day ban. He says many distributors have planned ahead by flash freezing fresh crabs. He adds that there are other seafood options during this month-long ban.

Cut 15 (05) “pretty strong”

_______________________________________________

The Pelicans have the best front court in the NBA as a result of acquiring Center DeMarcus Cousins from the Sacramento Kings. That’s the opinion of Jake Madison who writes for Bourbon Street Shots and host of Locked On Pelicans podcast

Cut 16 (10) “reckon with”

Cousins will help the Pelicans make a push for the playoffs this season. New Orleans is currently 2.5 games back of Denver for the 8th and final playoff spot in the Western Conference. Cousins has the reputation as a trouble maker inside the locker room, but Madison believes variables are  in place for the All-Star to fit in with the Pelicans

Cut 17 (14)  “at home “

Madison says the trade means that fellow All-Star Anthony Davis can move back to power forward, a position he’s more comfortable with…

Cut 18 (23) “that he has”

Alleged misuse of State Police funds for a trip to a training conference in San Diego has led to an internal investigation into four troopers’ spending. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

More people than ever are feeling politically stressed out. Michelle Southern explains.

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

The search is ongoing for three escaped Avoyelles Parish inmates. Sheriff Doug Anderson says 31-year-old Blake Reine, 23-year-old Joseph James, and 22-year-old Andre Steward escaped from a detention center near Bunkie on Saturday night.

Cut 3 (11) “from there”

Anderson says authorities are unsure if the inmates hid the wire cutters by the fence, or if someone left the tool to assist the escapees. Reine was serving a sentence for manslaughter, while both James and Steward were charged with armed robbery. He says once apprehended, the inmates will face additional charges of simple escape.

cut 4  (09) “their capture”

Reine is described as a 5’8” white male with blue eyes, brown hair, and a tattoo under his right eye. James is a black male 5’9” with brown eyes and black hair, and Steward is a 5’11” black male with brown eyes and black hair. Anderson says authorities believe the inmates fled south after escaping.

Cut 5  (09)  “law enforcement agency”

_________________________________________________________

State Police has launched an investigation into the spending of four troopers who made stops at the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas while on their way to a training conference in San Diego. The story was first reported by the Advocate. State Police Superintendent Col. Mike Edmonson says this is an unfortunate incident that never should have happened.

Cut 6 (11) “taken place”

While most troopers who attended the conference flew, Major Derrell Williams, Lt. Rodney Hyatt, Master Trooper Thurman Miller, and Trooper Alexander Nezgodinsky drove an LSP SUV. The Advocate’s report finds the stop at the Grand Canyon cost more than $700, and a night at the Palazzo Resort in Las Vegas cost over $500. Edmondson says these troopers have some explaining to do.

CUT 7 (10)  “that route also”

The scenic route also added 300 miles to the journey. According to the Advocate’s report, the troopers were also paid for overtime while on the trip. Edmonson says Maj. Williams is the head of internal affairs at LSP, which means the former head will lead this investigation. He says in the meantime, officials are making sure troopers play it by the book.

Cut 8 (09) “for it”

_________________________________________________________

Do you feel politically stressed? A new report by the American Psychological Association finds, no matter what party you are, anxiety over political matters is at an all time high. Michelle Many (Main-eee) with the LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans finds the principle factor in this deals with social relationships:

Cut 9 (11)  “on the individual”

Many says there were heated arguments and a lot of disagreements during the 2016 presidential campaign, and it’s carried over. She feels there is also a renewed focused on media reports these days and what people are seeing all over social networks online…:

Cut 10 (06) “interactions”

Many says, as with anything, when anything is done in excess, you’ll typically see problems arise either physically or mentally. She says the best thing you can do is try to bring balance back into your life, and that means moderation..:

cut 11 (08) “news viewing”

_________________________________________________________

The Louisiana Senate passed a measure on Sunday night that would use 99 million dollars of the Rainy Day Fund to help offset the state’s 304 million dollar budget deficit. Last week, the House passed legislation that would use 75 million dollars, but Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus, Gene Reynolds, supports using the higher amount…

cut 12 (09) “just can’t”

But Baton Rouge Representative Rick Edmunds says Republicans don’t have an appetite for using 99 million dollars out of the Rainy Day Fund. He says the state is also facing another major budget shortfall next fiscal year.

Cut 13 (10) “last resort“

This special session ends Wednesday at midnight. Reynolds says the House plan that calls for using 75 million dollars in Rainy Day funding is a proposal that is full of gimmicks.

cut 14 (10) “the past”

Originally the governor proposed using 119 million dollars from the Rainy Fund but says 99 million is an acceptable compromise. But Edmunds says Republicans believe they’ve already compromised enough and would rather keep it at 75 million dollars of the fund.

Cut 15 (10) “of corrections”

________________________________________________________

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” 

______________________________________

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

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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”

_______________________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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.

_________________________________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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”

________________________________________________________

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” 

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

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”‘

______________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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.

_______________________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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”

________________________________________________________

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.

________________________________________________________

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” 

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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”

________________________________________________________

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” 

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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”

_________________________________________________________

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”