Cloudy conditions will make it difficult to see the solar eclipse today. Meteorologist Ryan Gallagher has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…development”

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It’s eclipse day, and in Louisiana, the moon will begin to eclipse the sun around 12:30, be at its maximum close to 1:45, and end at three.  Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (34)  “I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Improving the state’s insurance market and providing school choice are the main themes of this 2024 regular session. Jeanne Burns has the story…

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Jeanne Burns” 

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Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields’ campaign finance report shows he’s raised more than 600 thousand dollars since he announced in January he would run the newly created 6^th congressional district seat, which now stretches from Baton Rouge to Shreveport. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says Fields is off to a good start with finances…

Cut 4 (11) “…of money.”

Fields is planning to challenge Congressman Garret Graves in November. The Baton Rouge Republican reported $3.8 million in cash on hand at the end of 2023. Hogan says Graves might be able to out-fund raise Fields, but the sixth district is now a majority-minority district..

Cut 5 (11) “…Cleo Fields.” 

Hogans says the campaign finance report shows that out of the 601-thousand dollars raised, 564-thousand came from individuals…

Cut 6 (13) “…opposes him.”

A federal court hearing is scheduled for today and tomorrow to hear arguments on the legality of the new Congressional map. Graves believes the map will be tossed out because state lawmakers solely considered race when drawing the map

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Today’s the big day for the highly anticipated total solar eclipse that will be visible in North America. Even though cloudy weather is expected to decrease the view in Louisiana, LSU Planetary Astrophysicist Dr. Natalie Hinkel says it’s definitely worth stepping outside to see how the moon blocking the sun affects the Earth.

 Cut 7 (13) “…you are.”

Animals even react to a total solar eclipse. Hinkel says crickets have been known to emerge because they think it’s nighttime and livestock often show signs of anxiety.

Cut 8 (07) “…of thing.” 

And it’s not just animals that react to a total solar eclipse, Hinkel says the weather is also impacted.

Cut 9 (10)  “…on the earth.”

Ophthalmologists remind you to never look directly at the eclipse, even a partial view of one without proper eclipse glasses. Doing so can cause permanent eye damage.

You can also safely view the eclipse by visiting science.nasa.gov.

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The probability of viewing the eclipse isn’t ideal in Louisiana thanks to cloud cover. LSU Climatologist Barry Keim says conditions are very unstable right now, with a front to our north and west…

Cut 10 (11) “…the state.”

Cut 14 (10)  “…public education.”

Pinsonat says when it comes to insurance reform, Republican lawmakers are seeking to make changes to reduce the number of lawsuits. Opponents say it will just pad the profits of insurance companies. He says tort reform and ESAs are on the front burner of this session

Cut 15 (11)  “…their voters”

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The LSU women’s basketball team has taken heat for not being on the court for the national anthem, but the football team has not been present for the anthem in decades. AD Scott Woodward says they’ll review their processes. Governor Landry is calling for college teams to be present for the anthem. Tigers football coach Brian Kelly says they will do whatever the administration wants…

Cut 16 (18)  “…national anthem” 

Suspended LSU running back Trey Holly no longer faces an attempted second-degree murder charge. A Union Parish Grand jury didn’t find enough evidence to indict him on attempted murder for a shooting in Farmerville on February 15th. Holly still faces a charge of illegal use of a weapon or dangerous instrumentality. Kelly says the case could be resolved soon.

Cut 17 (16) “…welcome back” 

The spring game is this Saturday at Tiger Stadium. Kelly says they’ve worked hard at improving the running game. Kelly has also been impressed with the development of receiver Kyren Lacy and likes what he is seeing from defensive back Major Burns, who is playing at nickel back

Cut 18 (18)  “…really really good”  

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After dropping another conference series, the LSU baseball team is now 3-and-9 in SEC play. Vanderbilt took two of three from the Tigers and won the series on Saturday with a 13-3 win in eight innings. Coach Jay Johnson on what’s wrong with LSU’s pitching

Cut 19 (09) “…right now”   

LSU’s bullpen has struggled. Griffin Herring has shown to be the lone pitcher out of the pen that’s been really effective. Johnson had to use Herring on Thursday to make sure Vanderbilt didn’t come back from a nine-to-nothing deficit. Johnson didn’t expect LSU to struggle as much as they have with pitching…

Cut 20 (12) “…about that”

LSU athletics director Scott Woodward and Governor Jeff Landry exchanged statements on Friday over the national anthem controversy. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Forecasters say the highly anticipated Great American Eclipse that starts around 12:30 on Monday in Louisiana could be eclipsed by clouds. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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The Powerball Jackpot has reached $1.23 billion, that’s a billion with a B. The cash value for Saturday night’s drawing is $595 million. Dustin Annison with the Louisiana Lottery says the current jackpot has been rolling over since January 3^rd.

Cut 3 (11) “…out of it.”  

(4th largest Powerball Jackpot, and 8th largest jackpot in US Lottery history)

Annison says the Bayou State is overdue for a Powerball Jackpot winner and this would be one heck of a prize. Since Louisiana joined the multi-state lottery game in 1995…

Cut 4 (08) “…next one.” 

The odds of winning this Powerball jackpot are 1 in 292 million, but Annison says while you might not win the 4^th largest jackpot in Powerball history, there are eight ways total to win and those odds are 1 in 25.

Cut 5 (10)  “…the jackpot.”

The drawing is Saturday night, and the Louisiana Lottery reminds you to play responsibly and that it only takes one ticket to win.

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LSU Athletics Director Scott Woodward has responded to Governor Landry’s call for college athletic teams to be present for the national anthem. Woodward says LSU will always be dedicated to the flag, the anthem and the country. Woodward says LSU will look at their processes. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne doesn’t see LSU changing its pregame activities, unless…

Cut 6  (11) “…do things” 

Horne says he’s attended hundreds of LSU football games since 1970 and the team has never been present when the marching band plays the national anthem.

Landry has called on the state’s higher education boards to develop a policy for college athletic teams to be on the field or court when the national anthem is played and if not, they could lose their scholarship. Horne says it would be difficult to fit the football team on the field when the Golden Band from Tigerland plays the “Star Spangled Banner…

Cut 7 (12) “…is threatened.”  

Horne believes this anthem controversy has been blown out of proportion…

Cut 8 (11) “…about nothing.” 

Landry is also calling on the NCAA to mandate that student athletes are present for the national anthem.

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Millions are excited for Monday’s total solar eclipse but mother nature may have other plans. Gary Chatelain (Shat-ta-lane) with the National Weather Service in Shreveport says they’re expecting cloudy skies on Monday before strong storms arrive.

Cut 9 (13) “…the day.” 

Chatelain says it will be mostly cloudy during the peak hours early Monday afternoon, but there is still a chance to see the moon block the sun.

Cut 10 (12) “…pretty limited. “

If you plan to travel to view the total eclipse, a storm system will push through north Louisiana by Monday afternoon. Chatelain says unfortunately Louisianans won’t get the full effect of the Great American Eclipse.

Cut 11 (10) “…by clouds.”

The total eclipse begins around 12:30 and ends by 3:10 in the Bayou State.

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The Louisiana Political Hall of Fame will induct its 2024 class with a ceremony in Baton Rouge tomorrow (Saturday) night highlighted by two term Governor John Bel Edwards. Louisiana Political Museum director Shonna Moss says Edwards is being honored for his dedication of political service.

Cut 12 (13) “…justice reform.” 

This year’s Hall of Fame includes seven new members. Louisiana Radio Network President Jim Engster is one of the inductees. Moss says Engster has been a talk show host since 1998.

Cut 13 (13) “..Rag Magazine.”

The 2024 class also consists of former state representative Joe Delpit, former state senator Louis Lambert,  former newspaper reporter Ed Anderson who passed away in 2015, former Board of Regents chair Richard Lipsey, and former Louisiana Chemical Association president Dan Borne’.

The Louisiana Political Hall of Fame is located in Winnfield and has 243 members with the latest inductees.

Colorado State University is calling for an extremely active 2024 hurricane season. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Starting August 1st, Louisiana casinos will no longer offer prop bets involving college athletes. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Colleen Crain” 

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Colorado State University hurricane researchers are expecting an extremely active 2024 hurricane season. Their initial forecast calls for 23 named storms, eleven hurricanes and five major storms. Isaac Schluesche is the on the research team and he says they’ve never predicted 11 hurricanes before a season started

Cut 3 (07) “…1995.”  

Schluesche says record warm sea surface temperatures and the return of La Nina is why they anticipate such a busy hurricane season.

Cut 4 (09) “…and hurricanes.” 

Tropical Systems including hurricanes thrive in warm waters and Schulesche says Sea Surface temperatures are outside the realm of anything he’s seen.

Cut 5 (10)  “…the season.”

Schulesche also says Tradewinds over the Atlantic that typically cause cooling of the water are predicted to be weak.

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An LSU student faces a manslaughter charge in the death of 26-year-old Devin Repath who died from a head injury following a fight outside of Fred’s Bar and Grill. Baton Rouge Police Corporal Saundra Watts says Matthew Marsiglia pushed Devin Repath to the ground….

Cut 6  (10) “…injuries.” 

An affidavit shows that Repath punched one of Marsiglia’s friends in the head which started the altercation. Repath, who is from the New Orleans area, was in town to celebrate an upcoming wedding. The incident happened on March 23rd. Watts says detectives have surveillance video of the incident…

Cut 7 (06) “…as well.”  

A manslaughter charge carries up to a 40-year prison sentence in Louisiana.

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New Orleans Representative Aimee Freeman hopes the third time is the charm for her legislation to require public schools to provide menstrual products. Tess, a 9^th grader at Willow School in New Orleans told House Education committee members, it’s not a matter of students forgetting to bring them to school.

Cut 8 (08) “…these products.” 

Classmate, Sophia timidly told lawmakers that young girls like herself are often riddled with anxiety and unable to focus on class instruction over their periods.

Cut 9 (09) “…sanitary product.” 

When the menstrual products are not easily accessible, 12-year-old Nadia, a student at Audubon Charter School in New Orleans, told committee members just how difficult it is for shy girls like herself to ask permission to go to the nurse’s office.

Cut 10 (11) “…embarrassed. “

The bill passed on a 9 to 2 vote and heads to Appropriations.

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Starting August 1st, licensed Louisiana sports books will no longer offer prop bets involving a college athlete. A prop bet is when gamblers place a bet on how many touchdowns a quarterback will throw or how many points a basketball player will score. Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Johns…

Cut 11 (11) “…as a whole”

Johns says prop bets on teams as a whole will still be legal. Johns says this new policy will protect the integrity of sports betting as well as the safety of college athletes…

Cut 12 (13) “…bettor” 

Vermont, Ohio and Maryland have also banned college prop bets. Johns expects more states will do so….

Cut 13 (10) “..sports betting.”

Sports betting became legal in Louisiana in 2020 and the first licensed sports books opened in 2021.

A bill has been filed that seeks to eliminate the state’s income tax. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Governor Landry reiterates his belief that college athletes should be present for the National Anthem on National TV. I’m Brooke Thorington.

Cut 2 (29)  “I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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At the request of a newly formed coalition of Jewish organizations and faith leaders, Monroe Senator Katrina Jackson-Andrews has filed a bill to remove the gassing method of execution from Louisiana law.  Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Colleen Crain”

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A bill to repeal the state’s income tax has been filed and awaits a hearing in the House Ways and Means Committee. Columbia Representative Neil Riser says it’s time to relieve Louisianans of rising costs by eliminating taxes.

Cut 4 (11) “…local economy.”

There’s been talk at the capitol for several years about repealing the state’s income tax. Riser’s bill would eliminate state taxes on income starting January 1, 2026.

Cut 5 (12) “…I am.” 

It’s estimated the amount the state will lose in revenue is around 4.5 billion dollars if the state repeals the state income tax. Riser says Louisiana could offset the loss of that revenue by getting rid of dozens of different tax credits and rebates.

Cut 6 (13) “…five billion.”

Riser notes that nearby states of Texas and Florida have no income taxes.

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During an appearance on Fox News’ “America Reports” Governor Jeff Landry says he’s sent letters to all the Louisiana college boards encouraging them to implement a policy that student-athletes be present during the National Anthem

 Cut 7 (15) “…itself.”

Landry posted on social media Tuesday morning after the LSU Lady Tigers weren’t on the court for the National Anthem Monday night, he wants such policies implemented that student-athletes risk their athletic scholarships if they aren’t present. When asked if athletes would be required to stand …

Cut 8 (08) “…the sport.” 

The Republican said the fact that Iowa players were present during the National Anthem and LSU players weren’t only highlighted the issue and sparked his social media post.

Cut 9 (12)  “…that anthem.”

Landry’s post also included “Above respect for that game is a deeper respect for those that serve to protect us and unite us under one flag.”

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Monroe Senator Katrina Jackson-Andrews has filed a bill to remove nitrogen hypoxia, the gassing method of execution, from Louisiana Law at the urging of Jews Against Gassing, a newly formed coalition of Jewish organizations and faith leaders. Coalition Steering Committee member, Jackie Stern says she and many in the Jewish community have a visceral reaction to this method…

Cut 10 (11) “…concentration camps.”

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Senate Education Committee approves a bill to mandate a five-day school week. Nine school districts currently use a four-day week schedule. But Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell says she believes a five-day school week is a better option and it’s easier for parents and employers who operate Monday through Friday…

Cut 13 (06)  “…a week.”

Two major amendments were added to Mizell’s measure. One of them would allow school systems operating on a four-day school schedule can continue to do so if this proposal becomes law. The other would allow A or B school systems to move to a four-day week if they wish. Mizell understands the concerns that some school systems have with her legislation…

Cut 14 (10)  “…about that.”

Executive Director of the Louisiana Association of School Superintendents Michael Faulk says the four-day schedule works for some school systems, especially the smaller ones…

Cut 15 (10)  “…performance score.”

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LSU baseball coach Jay Johnson has told the players no cellphones in the locker room as the Tigers try to break out of a slump. They’ve lost four in a row and they are 2-7 in SEC play. Johnson is looking for greater focus from his players…

Cut 16 (11)  “…we are doing.” 

LSU has lost its first three series of SEC play. Johnson says the schedule has not provided his team with any breaks…

Cut 17 (18) “…perfectly” 

Vanderbilt comes in with a record of 23-6, 6-3 in the SEC. Johnson says the Commodores do not hit for a lot of power but they can run the bases…

Cut 18 (17)  “…right now”  

In a 81-20 vote, a law that would prohibit you from coming any closer than 25 feet of a police officer after being ordered to stop passed the full House.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Angel Reese is leaving LSU as a legend as she announces she’s turning pro. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Legislation that would make it a crime to be within 25 feet of a working law enforcement officer who told the person to retreat or stop passed the full House in an 81-20 vote. Thibodaux Representative Bryan Fontenot, who is a former sheriff’s deputy, says he’s trying to protect officers with this bill…

Cut 3 (11) “…an arrest.”  

The bill was approved last year but vetoed by then Governor John Bel Edwards.

Opponents raised concerns about constitutional rights and whether onlookers can still get good video of potential police misconduct. Fontenot says 25 feet is a sufficient distance.

Cut 4 (13) “…their job.” 

If the bill becomes law, violators could face fines up to $500 and up to 60 days in jail. Fontenot says police officers never know if the person approaching needs help, has a question, or means them harm. He says this gives law enforcement a safe distance to react.

Cut 5 (11)  “…an arrest.”

The bill heads to the Senate.

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A bill to allow ivermectin, an anti-parasitic drug that made headlines during the pandemic, to be sold over the counter in Louisiana advances from House Health and Welfare. Gray Representative Beryl Amedee says it’s safe, effective, and virtually harmless for humans.

Cut 6  (09) “…prescription.” 

Amedee presented the bill for fellow Republican, Rosepine Representative Chuck Owen.

Kenner Representative Joseph Stagni expressed reservations about the state allowing ivermectin for humans to be sold over the counter versus a medical organization.

Cut 7 (11) “…my concern.”  

When asked if the medication manufacturers want the human version to be sold OTC, Amedee says while she hasn’t spoken with them, she felt they would be happy about it. She says other states allow it, for example, Tennessee, which has done so for two years.

Cut 8 (10) “…able to.” 

The bill passed on a 7-4 vote and advances to the House.

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The Bayou Barbie is saying goodbye to LSU. Angel Reese declares for the WNBA draft late Wednesday morning. Women’s Basketball Coach Kim Mulkey talked about how remarkable her two years at LSU have been. Reese transformed the program and led the Lady Tigers to their first NCAA Championship in 2023! The Voice of the Lady Tigers, Patrick Wright called her a legend…

Cut 9 (10) “…change that” 

Reese posted a video to X saying she’s leaving college with everything she ever wanted—a degree, a national championship, and a platform she never imagined. Wright says Reese plays with a passion and skill that has grown women’s basketball, and her impact extends beyond LSU.

Cut 10 (13) “…play off “

Reese says it was a difficult decision to declare for the WNBA draft but she says she trusts the next chapter because she knows the author. In her two amazing years at LSU Reese shattered records and advanced an entire sport. Wright says she also faced tremendous scrutiny.

Cut 11 (11) “…in the WNBA”

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Two women and a man were found fatally shot in a tent on a vacant lot next to railroad tracks in Jefferson Parish. Sheriff Joe Lopinto believes the victims may have died in the past day or two.

Cut 12 (12) “…right now.” 

The area is located on the outskirts of a neighborhood and near an industrial storage business. Lopinto says deputies are unable to determine whether the killings are the results of a homicide or murder-suicide.

Cut 13 (12) “..to see.”

The victims names have not been released. No arrests have been made.

The idea of holding a constitutional convention before the current session ends isn’t gaining much traction among some lawmakers. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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After last night’s season ending loss, LSU’s Angel Reese opens up about the hate she’s received since winning the national championship. Beau Gaspard has more…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Beau Gaspard” 

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A new 20-foot by 30-foot pavilion at Jimmie Davis State Park in Jackson Parish has opened. Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says the North Central Baptist Association paid for and constructed the new facility.

Cut 3 (08) “…church services.”  

Located near the park’s campground, the pavilion accommodates around 50 people.

Nungesser says the NCBA has used the smaller pavilion for other activities including summer day camps. He hopes this project sparks interest among other church organizations to partner with state parks.

Cut 4 (12) “…around Louisiana.” 

Nungesser says its local partnerships that benefit state parks and the local community. He hopes community events attract Louisianans of all ages to state parks especially the youth.

Cut 5 (09)  “…great outdoors.”

To learn more about Louisiana State Parks, visit LaStateParks.com.

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There is pushback to ending the regular session early so a constitutional convention can be held. A bill has been filed to begin the constitutional convention on May 20th, but the regular session is not scheduled to end until June 3rd. Senate President Cameron Henry says there are a lot of unknowns.

Cut 6  (10) “…the horse.” 

Henry says Governor Jeff Landry wants a streamlined state constitution that can be approved by voters in November. Henry says ending the current session early will be difficult because there are significant budget problems.

Cut 7 (07) “…we take.”  

Lawmakers have been in Baton Rouge since January, with two back-to-back special sessions and the regular one that began on March 11^th and is scheduled to end on June 3^rd. Henry says the idea of extending that to mid-July is a bit daunting.

Cut 8 (12) “…their districts.” 

House Bill 800 to hold a constitutional convention is pending House referral in the legislature.

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The House Appropriations Committee has approved a proposal that would provide thousands of dollars to a family to pay for private school tuition or other education expenses.  Once the program gets fully implemented it will cost the state an estimated 500-million dollars annually. Stonewall Representative Larry Bagley is hearing concerns about taking money away from public schools…

Cut 9 (10) “…this bill” 

The measure passed on a 13 to 8 vote, Bagley was one of two Republicans to vote against it.

There’s also a concern the Louisiana Gator Scholarship Program will result in students leaving high performing schools so they can attend a private school, further lowering the amount of money public schools receive. The bill author’s Julie Emerson pushes back against that idea…

Cut 10 (10) “…paying to educate “

Fourteen other states have implemented education savings account programs like the one her bill proposes to create. Louisiana Federation of Teachers president Larry Carter says the E-S-A program in Arizona has turned out to be more costly than projected and there’s fraud too…

Cut 11 (10) “…beauty supplies”

Emerson says they’ve learned from other states’ mistakes and there are provisions in the proposed legislation that makes sure the dollars made available through the Gator Scholarship Program goes to education…

Cut 12 (08) “…implemented this” 

The Educational saving account would award families from higher incomes with 51-hundred dollars a year, 75-hundred dollars for lower income families and 15-thousand dollars for students with special needs.

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Governor Landry is displeased the LSU Lady Tigers were not on the court for the national anthem prior to the game against Iowa. Landry says he respects coach Kim Mulkey, but there should be a deep respect for those who serve to protect and unite us under one flag. Mulkey says she didn’t know when the anthem was played….

Cut 13 (13) “..intentionally done.”

In a post on social media, Landry says he wants the Board of Regents to put a policy in place that requires student athletes be present for the national anthem or risk their athletic scholarship. The governor says it’s a matter of respect that all collegiate coaches should instill.

During home LSU women’s basketball games, both teams are in the locker room during the national anthem.

The Louisiana Gator Scholarship Program bill, also known as Education Savings Accounts, goes before House Appropriations today. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell filed proposed legislation that aims at regulating five-day school weeks statewide. After receiving pushback, Mizell intends to explore amendments to the bill. Teiko Foxx explains….

Cut 2 (30)  “I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes got the best of the LSU Lady Tigers last night in a rematch of last year’s national championship game. Jeff Palermo has a recap…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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April is National Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission has launched the “Buckle Up, Phone Down,” campaign. Spokesperson Greg Fisher says when you reach for your phone you take your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel and your mind off driving.

Cut 4 (10) “…your phone.”

Louisiana’s current law prohibits writing, sending, or reading text messages on a hand-held device while driving and in an active school zone you’re also not allowed to talk on a hand-held phone.

And distractions are not limited to just cell phones. Fischer says activities such as eating, drinking, using a GPS, and even talking with passengers can divert a driver’s attention.

Cut 5 (11) “…to drive.” 

Fisher says their latest research finds that almost a third of drivers in Louisiana engage in some sort of distracted driving, so he’s urging motorists to make a pledge…

Cut 6 (07) “…phone down.”

According to the Center for Analytics and Research in Transportation Safety at LSU, in 2022, distracted drivers in the state were involved in more than two-thousand crashes that hurt or killed someone.

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The Louisiana Gator Scholarship Program bill, also known as Education Savings Accounts, goes before House Appropriations today. How much it will cost the state to fund and implement the program is a concern. Public Affairs Research Council President Steven Procopio estimates it will eventually cost $520-million annually.

 Cut 7 (08) “…up too.”

While the program has plenty of Republican support, Procopio says lawmakers need to consider a temporary sales tax that will expire in 2025, which is estimated to create a $400 to $500 million fiscal cliff as they consider funding the ESA program.

Cut 8 (09) “…bill is.” 

He says even if the bill passes in the legislature in its current form there’s a year of planning before it’s implemented.

Cut 9 (06)  “…aren’t acceptable.”

Thirteen other states have some form ESAs, which include the neighboring states of Arkansas and Mississippi.

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A south Louisiana lawmaker believes students should attend school five days a week. Nine school systems in Louisiana have some or all their schools with four-day weeks. Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell has filed a bill that would mandate a five-day school week because she’s concerned about children at home without adult supervision one day a week

Cut 10 (09) “…the homes.”

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Iowa got the best of LSU this time. After losing to the Lady Tigers last year in the national championship game, the Hawkeyes defeated LSU 94 to 87 last night. Caitlin Clark was sensational, scoring 41 points. LSU’s Angel Reese had 20 points and 17 rebounds. Reese says it was a great run, despite not getting back to the Final Four

Cut 13 (12)  “…9ur heads up.”

Flau’jae Johnson was outstanding during the NCAA Tournament and had another great game last night, scoring 23 points and six rebounds. During the postgame press conference, Johnson spoke out against the people who have shown hate towards Reese…

Cut 14 (11)  “…heavy bro”

Reese says her life has not been easy since winning the national championship…

Cut 15 (13)  “…every single time.”

This was likely Reese’s final game at LSU. She says she’ll make a decision on her future when she’s ready. Reese is expected to be a top ten pick in the WNBA draft.

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The Ragin Cajuns win streak is now up to 11 after sweeping Texas State. At his weekly Monday press conference, Coach Matt Deggs talked about what’s led to the team’s best start in Sun Belt play since 2014

Cut 16 (13)  “…that stretch.” 

The Cajuns open a nine-game homestand tonight against Nicholls. Deggs can feel the community getting behind this team…

Cut 17 (21) “…gets fun.” 

Deggs says the winning streak is a reward for the team’s hard work…

Cut 18 (14)  “…in our favor.”  

The Louisiana-based food delivery service ASAP has ceased operations. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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LSU women’s basketball player Hailey Van Lith calls an L-A Times column racist after it describes her team as villains and dirty debutantes. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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ASAP, the Louisiana-based food delivery company formally known as Waitr, announced its closure over the weekend. UNO business professor Mark Rosa says in the business world there are winners and losers and the combination of COVID, rising inflation, and interest rates is creating more losers.

Cut 3 (11) “…out of business.”  

Waitr originated in Lake Charles, then moved operations to Lafayette in 2016. In 2022 Waitr changed its name to ASAP after a copyright infringement lawsuit.

Rosa says the rising cost of food, coupled with delivery fees made it cost-prohibited for many consumers.

Cut 4 (06) “…as well.” 

Rosa says with ASAP being a Louisiana-based company, you always cheer for the home team, but the odds are usually against a small company, especially in the early stages.

Cut 5 (12)  “…longer possible.”

A statement on ASAP’s website said after 15 -years of dedicated service they made the tough decision to cease operations and thanked customers for their unwavering support and loyalty throughout the company’s journey.

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The Louisiana House approves a bill that could result in fines of up to $50,000 on hospitals, public agencies, and other employers for mandating the COVID-19 vaccine. Bill sponsor, Monroe Representative Michael Echols…

Cut 6  (12) “…the bill.” 

Small businesses, defined by the SBA of 500 employees or less, who violate the ban would be fined $10 thousand dollars. Large businesses would face a $50 thousand fine.

If passed, Echols said the bill would empower the state Attorney General’s Office to investigate complaints about employers.

Cut 7 (11) “…mandate that.”  

The bill also includes restrictions on mask mandates, prohibiting employers from enforcing them as a preventive measure against COVID-19.

Echols says the bill’s provisions reflect ongoing debates among his constituents. He says opponents advocate for public health measures. But he believes it’s about individual freedom.

Cut 8 (09) “…do it.” 

The bill heads to the Senate for discussion.

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Another huge jackpot is up for grabs as the Powerball tally reaches one billion dollars. Dustin Annison with the Louisiana Lottery says it has a cash value of $484 million and that’s no April Fool’s joke.

Cut 9 (08) “…Louisiana winner.” 

Annison reminds you to sign the back of your ticket after and always check your ticket after the drawing because…

Cut 10 (09) “…outlet. “

You can also scan your ticket with the Louisiana Lottery app on your smartphone to see if you’re a winner.

It was just last week when a $1.13 billion MegaMillions jackpot was won with a ticket purchased in New Jersey and now Powerball is up to a billion dollars.

So, if you think this April Fools could be the one that turns you into a billionaire overnight, Annison says be sure to purchase your tickets by 9pm…

Cut 11 (04) “…to win.”

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LSU women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey has blasted Los Angeles Times writer Ben Bolch for describing the Lady Tigers as villains and dirty debutantes. Coach Kim Mulkey called the column sexist

Cut 12 (12) “…say that” 

Bolch made the bold statements because of Mulkey’s rant against the Washington Post and Angel Reese’s history of trash-talking. The L-A Times edited the column after it was published saying it did not meet the Times editorial standards.

LSU guard Hailey Van Lith says the article was extremely hurtful.

Cut 13 (13) “…not right.”

Van Lith also believes the comments made by the L-A Times reporter were racist…

Cut  14 (05) “…our team” 

Legislation that would allow lawmakers to rewrite the state’s constitution has been filed. Teiko Foxx spoke with LaPolictics.com Publisher Jeremy Alford who explains the process.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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House Natural Resources approves a bill to raise fees on Louisiana processors and distributors who import foreign seafood. Colleen Crain reports the additional dollars will help fund a state program that tests imported seafood…

Cut 2 (32)  “I’m Colleen Crain.” 

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A 12-year-old with a rare form of terminal cancer’s visit to Mansfield, Louisiana last week was both memorable and heart-touching. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Louisiana could hold its first constitutional convention in half a century. Legislation defining the framework has been filed by New Iberia Representative Beau Beaullieu. LaPolictics.com Publisher Jeremy Alford says it is not a done deal, as there are concerns about the timing of the convention…

Cut 4 (11) “…session early.”

Beaullieu proposes the convention begins May 20^th and ends July 15^th. That means the ongoing legislative session would have to end two weeks early and there are concerns about completing the work that needs to be done in the regular session.

Alford says Governor Landry and several state lawmakers are pushing for a constitutional convention so they can streamline the state’s constitution by moving certain items out and putting them into state law.

Cut 5 (13) “…for now.” 

The plan calls for 171 delegates to write the new constitution. That would consist of all 144 state lawmakers and Governor Jeff Landry would handpick the other 27 delegates.

Alford says private dollars would pay for the convention.

Cut 6 (12) “…find out.”

Louisiana voters would vote in November to approve a new constitution.

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A bill raising fees on processors and distributors importing seafood from foreign countries has passed the House Natural Resources Committee with unanimous support Bill sponsor, Houma Representative Jessica Domangue…

 Cut 7 (09) “…increase testing.”

The bill now heads to the full House for consideration.

Domangue, the daughter of a commercial fisherman, is concerned about the lack of resources to test foreign seafood for harmful contaminants. She says it’s important the state does supplemental testing because the feds do not do enough

Cut 8 (08) “…human health.” 

Domangue says the fees currently collected by the Louisiana Department of Health only partially fund needed screening. Her bill would increase the annual flat fee of $100 currently collected from processors and distributors of foreign seafood to 0.1% of their annual gross revenue.

Cut 9 (07)  “…functions.”

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A week from today a total solar eclipse will darken the skies for those lucky enough to be in the narrow band of land stretching from Texas to Maine. But LSU Planetary Astrophysicist Dr. Natalie Hinkel says the northwest corner of Louisiana will have the best view of the celestial marvel.

Cut 10 (09) “…the earth.”

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Mansfield, Louisiana Mayor Thomas Jones says he will never forget last week’s council meeting as the small town deputized 12-year-old Davarjaye “DJ” Daniel of Houston. It was the 821^st time the young man with a rare form of terminal brain and spine cancer had been sworn in as an honorary officer. Jones says DJ is an inspiration.

Cut 13 (07)  “…help somebody.”

The reason DJ’s father, Theodis Daniel, chose Mansfield is that his family, who had been there since the early 1900s, left after his great-uncle was lynched. Jones says the visit was an emotional and significant one.

Cut 14 (05)  “…to know.”

Jones says meeting DJ and the magnitude of his family’s return to the small DeSoto Parish city, was better than any church service he’s ever attended.

Cut 15 (07)  “…days ahead.”

The city had a uniform and badge specially made for DJ whose goal is to be sworn in to as many law enforcement agencies as possible.

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LSU and Iowa meet again tonight, a rematch of last year’s national championship game won by the Lady Tigers. This time the setting is the Elite Eight, the winner advances to the Final Four. Both teams feature superstar players. Angel Reese for LSU and Caitlin Clark for Iowa. Some believe there’s a heated rivalry between the two, Reese says that’s not the case…

Cut 16 (16)  “…friends” 

Mulkey says she sees a lot of similarities between Reese and Clark…

Cut 17 (22) “…basketball before” 

Both teams do like the trash talk and some fans get offended. But Hailey Van Lith says the smack-talking has been good for the game and it’s malicious…

Cut 18 (20)  “…ever done.”  

The Louisiana House approves legislation that repeals the three-year rule, which prohibits homeowners insurance companies from dropping policyholders that have been a customer for more than years. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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After her daughter was tragically killed while trying to save a dog two years ago, her mother is keeping her legacy alive in a unique way. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The Louisiana House has approved an insurance reform measure that repeals the three-year rule. Louisiana does not allow homeowners insurance companies to drop policyholders who have been customers for at least three years. Pollock Representative Gabe Firment says his legislation will allow insurers to better manage their risk..

Cut 3 (10) “…insurance market”  

Firment says repealing the three-year rule will help attract more insurers into the state, which would result in lower premiums.

Critics says there is no guarantee this will help bring more insurers into Louisiana. Baton Rouge Representative Edmond Jordan says you’re getting rid of a great for consumer protection policy for a hope that it will result in lower premiums…

Cut 4 (06) “…than others.” 

Repealing the three-year rule is part of Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple’s package of bills that he says will result will bring more insurance providers to Louisiana. Temple says more competition is the key to reversing soaring premiums. Pineville Representative Mike Johnson says if Temple supports it, he backs it too…

Cut 5 (12)  “…that’s right.”

The measure heads to the Senate for more discussion.

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After her daughter was tragically killed on a busy highway while trying to save a dog, Kristen Perkins chose to honor her memory by starting “Leedle’s Dirty Paws Rescue.” (pronounced Leal-dell) The Rapides parish rescue in Glenmora might be small but Perkins’ heart for animals is huge.

Cut 6  (10) “…be thrilled.” 

Perkins says her daughter, whose nickname was Leedle, was on her way home from work at a vet clinic when she stopped on the Monroe highway in Pineville to save an injured dog.

Cut 7 (10) “…out of the highway.”  

Leeleanne “Leedle” was killed on January 11, 2022, just days before her 22^nd birthday.

Their six dogs are microchipped, fixed and all deserving of a loving home, but Perkins admits operating a rescue is tough, both emotionally and financially.

Cut 8 (12) “…that choice.” 

You can find a link to the rescue at LouisianaRadioNetwork.com

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The Small Business Administration opened a Business Recovery Center in Crowley today at the former Wells Fargo Bank location on Parkerson Avenue. The center provides resources and assistance to small businesses impacted by last year’s extreme drought. Spokesperson Corey Williams says small businesses are eligible for loans to help with financial loss.

Cut 9 (13) “…in revenues” 

Interest rates are at four percent and does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the loan disbursement.

Williams says non-profit organizations are also eligible for loans with a two-point three percent interest rate. The goal is to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses of small businesses.

Cut 10 (13) “…they need. “

Services include assessing business working capital needs and a review of options to help owners evaluate their alternatives.

Williams says services are free of charge, with no appointment necessary. He says this initiative is SBA’s commitment to helping Louisiana small businesses to overcome challenges resulting from natural disasters.

Cut 11 (11) “…extreme drought.”

Williams says there are SBA offices in all 64 parishes. Small businesses can apply online at Lending.SBA.gov.

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Last year’s historic drought had an impact on several agricultural commodities, including honey. State  Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says in a typical year, Louisiana produces more than three million pounds of honey, but last year it was two-million pounds….

Cut 12 (09) “…wow” 

Strain says a lower supply of honey, means the price has gone up….

Cut 13 (12) “…26-percent”   

Strain felt the reduction in honey production first hand as he’s also a licensed bee keeper…

Cut  14 (07) “…impact”