A teacher workgroup launched by Louisiana Department of Education aims to improve conditions for teachers. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (34)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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After news broke that the St. Tammany coroner-elect was accused of child sexual assault in New Mexico, parish lawmakers are calling for him to resign. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (41)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Gas prices are on the increase with the statewide average price for a gallon of regular gas in Louisiana at $2.89, that’s up seventeen cents from a month ago. GasBuddy Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan it’s not surprising for this time of year.

Cut 3 (12) “…as a result.”  

When you compare prices from a year ago, the average today is down seventeen cents from 2023.

DeHaan expects gas prices to continue to go up now that we’re reaching the typical time of year when demand goes up along with the temperatures…

Cut 4 (10) “…gas prices.”

As for the immediate forecast on gas prices, DeHaan predicts they will continue to increase as refineries make the switch to summer gas and demand increases. He says typically we see prices go up in February and the trend continues into late spring.

Cut 5 (10) “…April or May.”

Oil prices he says are not impacting the increase in gas prices as they continue to average around $76 a barrel. He says world events also do not appear to be related to the increase in gas prices, he says it’s merely seasonality.

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The Louisiana Department of Education is launching, Let Teachers Teach, a teacher’s workgroup to develop possible solutions to classroom disruptions. State Superintendent Cade Brumley says teachers feel a number of distractions are taking time away from classroom instruction.

Cut 6  (10) “…from learning.” 

Brumley says the workgroup will include pre-K to 12th grade teachers.  He says there’s nothing more critical to student success than an effective teacher.

Cut 7 (12) “…those things.”  

Brumley says LDOE is working with teacher committees and organizations to identify teachers for the workgroup. And he believes current Louisiana Teacher of the Year Kylie Altier…

Cut 8 (12) “…the profession.” 

Teacher committees and education organizations can email their teacher recommendations  to ldoecommunications@la.gov.

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Local lawmakers are calling for St. Tammany coroner-elect Dr. Christopher Tape not to take office, after a WWL-TV investigation found Tape was arrested on child sexual assault charges in New Mexico in 2001. The charges were dropped because he didn’t receive a speedy trial but Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell says Tape was never proven innocent either…

Cut 9 (09) “…really concerning.”

Tape told WWL-TV his experience of being accused of child sexual assault makes him a good person to lead the sexual assault response team because he knows what a false accusation is like.

Tape ran unopposed and was officially elected in October. Mizell says if Tape does not resign, the Northshore delegation would support a recall petition to keep him from taking office next month.

Cut 10 (08) “…officials.”

According to WWL-TV court records show Tape admitted to Albuquerque police in 2001 that he spanked and then rubbed the bare bottom of his girlfriend’s seven-year-old daughter. Tape told investigators he was disciplining the child and denied molesting her.

Tape reportedly has only been living in St. Tammany Parish for about a year and Mizell says she and other lawmakers were caught completely off-guard with news of his previous charges.

Cut 11 (06) “…that position.”

WWL-TV quoted recent court records in Lafayette Parish where Tape paid an undisclosed amount in a 2022 civil settlement  young woman who worked for him at the private autopsy firm he ran there after she accused him of unwanted advances. 

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The college baseball season begins tomorrow and this will be the last for legendary Louisiana Tech broadcaster Dave Nitz. His first Tech broadcast was 50 years ago in the Spring of 1974. Nitz also called football and basketball games for Tech until 2022…

Cut 12 (07)  “..doing that”  

The 80-year-old Nitz grew up in West Virginia listening to major league baseball games on radio. He says baseball was always his first love…

Cut 13 (09) “…many years’  

Nitz was inducted into the La Tech Athletics Hall of Fame in 2010 and the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame in 2019. Nitz will just broadcast the home games in his final season as the Voice of Louisiana Tech baseball…

Cut  14 (12) “..turn somebody down”

For the second year in a row, Ira and Margery Milan, married for 82 years, are recognized by the Louisiana Family Forum as Louisiana’s Longest Married Couple. Teiko Foxx has more on the loving couple.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana has decided not to move forward with a proposed sale to Elevance Health. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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A New Orleans couple is being recognized for the second year in a row, as Louisiana’s Longest Married Couple by the Louisiana Family Forum. Ira and Margery Milan of New Orleans have been married for 82 years. President Gene Mills says the Milan’s story is one of love, faith, and joy.

Cut 3 (13) “…more children.”  

Ira and Margery are both over 100 years old. Ira, a World War II veteran, served in the Philippines. The Milan’s have a large loving family including eight grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.

Mills says music has been a major component of their marriage.

Cut 4 (13) “…they do.”

In addition to the Milan’s, the Family Forum is also recognizing three couples who were married 77 years: Burl and Mary Clark of Jena, Lloyd and Audrey Schroeder of Jefferson, and Leland and Gussie Lacaze of Robeline.

Mills says it’s important to recognize couples who have long lasting marriages.

Cut 5 (12) “…to tell.”

The Milan’s will be inducted in the Marriage Hall of Fame and will be joined by the top ten runners up.

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Willis Knighton Health System is celebrating its 100^th birthday and marking the occasion with a new name, image, and renewed commitment to northwest Louisiana. President and CEO Jaf Fielder says the facility was originally known as the Tri-State Sanitarium in 1924. It was a small suburban hospital on the outskirts of Shreveport.

Cut 6  (12) “…the state.” 

Fielder says the word system implies a building and he says they are much more than a facility, so their new name is Willis-Knighton Health.

Cut 7 (07) “…our logo.”  

Fielder says they are keeping the WK logo because it’s one of the strongest known monikers in northwest Louisiana, but it will get a slight makeover, with a modern and sleek font.

Cut 8 (07) “…health system.” 

In 2023, Willis Knighton Health was ranked the number one hospital in the state by Newsweek magazine.

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The proposed sale of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana to Elevance Health is off. Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple says his office received word last night from Blue Cross that it decided to withdraw its plan to merge with Elevance

Cut 9 (04) “…of this matter”

Temple’s office scheduled a two-day public hearing on the proposed sale, but it was canceled before it started this morning.

Temple’s approval was needed for the sale to go through. The commissioner says he received a lot of public input on the proposed transaction

Cut 10 (09) “…their backs.”

UNO Department of Economic and Finances Chair Walter Lane says there was a lot of resistance to the proposed sale because Blue Cross failed to explain why as a non-profit it’s necessary to merge with a for profit company

Cut 11 (11) “…of Louisiana”

This is the second time Blue Cross has decided not to move forward with a merger with Elevance. Blue Cross CEO Steve Udvarheyli (Ood-ver-high) told lawmakers he’s concerned about the future of Blue Cross, because health care costs are rising faster than the premiums it charges. Lane says it’s a legitimate concern and it’s why they need a partner

Cut 12 (07)  “..changing marketplace”  

Cupid is doing his part to stimulate the economy this Valentine’s Day. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Lenten season starts today and there should be plenty of seafood in the Bayou State for Catholics who have to ditch meat. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The Louisiana Department of Insurance holds a two-day hearing starting today on the controversial proposed sale of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana to Elevance Health of Indiana. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Love is in the air and it’s making a dent in the economy with a record $25.8 billion expected to be spent on Valentine’s gifts this year. That’s according to the National Retail Federation and Vice President of Consumer Insights Katherine Cullen that’s the third highest among in their survey’s history.

Cut 4 (05) “…partner.”

That’s $14.2 billion expected to be spent on significant others.

Consumers plan to spend on average $186 for Valentine’s Day this year, that’s up almost $8 more than the average spending over the last five years.

Cullen says lovers will be spending the most on jewelry or an evening out.

Cut 5 (08) “…greeting cards.” 

And the age group that plans to celebrate more than any other age group, Cupid says it’s ages 25 to 34, or 62-percent of consumers.

And it’s not just cards, flowers, and jewelry, Cullen says about a third of consumers plan to gift an experience to their special someone.

Cut 6 (12) “…painting class.”

And the NRF says among those not celebrating Valentine’s Day, 29% still plan to mark the occasion by either treating themselves to something special or planning a get-together with other single friends or family members.

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Today is the first day of Lent season for the Catholic community and that means steering clear of red meat and consuming more seafood. Owner of Harlon’s LA Fish in Kenner Harlon Pearce says the 2024 crawfish season is not going to be great in terms of supply and prices due to last years drought.

Cut 7 (11) “…have crawfish.”

Many Louisiana crawfish farmers produced zero crawfish, while others did not have quite an average production due to the drought.

For Catholics, tonight’s dinner is probably going to consist of some kind of seafood on a plate, and Pearce says there does not seem to be a limited supply of seafood choices such as crabs, oysters, and shrimp. He says fish is also a great choice during Lent.

Cut 8 (13) “…be beat.” 

With more than 13 hundred crawfish farmers, Louisiana leads the nation in crawfish production, supplying 100 to 120 million pounds per year, according to Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries.

When it comes to crawfish, Pearce says give it a couple of months, there are promising signs of more crawfish that may be ready between March and May. But if you’re planning an Easter crawfish boil…

Cut 9 (11)  “…usage week.”

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A two-day public hearing gets underway today on the proposed sale of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana to Elevance Health of Indiana. Several state lawmakers are concerned this could be a bad deal for Blue Cross’s one-point-nine million policyholders.  Senate Health and Welfare Chairman Patrick McMath says Elevance Health has a troubled history…

Cut 10 (09) “…profits soaring.”

But Elevance Health says Louisiana ranks dead last in almost every public measure in healthcare. They say the acquisition will lead to more affordable care, a better overall experience, and improved health outcomes. Elevance Health says its resources can also bring better technology. But Shreveport Senator Thomas Pressly is skeptical…

Cut 11 (08) “…technology issues.” 

For the sale to go through, two-thirds of 95-thousand Blue Cross policyholders must approve and it also needs Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple’s approval. McMath believes the proposed sale is not good and it needs to be stopped…

Cut 12 (14) “…in Louisiana.” 

The public can watch the hearing at the Department of Insurance’s website and L-D-I’s YouTube channel.

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After the feasting and celebrating of Mardi Gras comes Ash Wednesday — the beginning of the 40 days of Lent. LSU Professor of Religious Studies, Michael Pasquier (Pass kay) says it’s the Christian holy season leading up to Easter…

Cut 13 (10)  “…of Jesus.”

Pasquier (Pass kay) says Many people will give up something like sweets or alcohol and reflect on the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus during Lent as they anticipate celebrating His resurrection on Easter…

Cut 14 (12) “…positive ways.”

While many give up things like sugar or dining out, Pasquier (Pass kay) says others will use the season of Lent to focus on others rather than their own suffering…

Cut 15 (10) “…their coworkers.”

The good times will stop rolling at midnight but in the meantime, carnival goers are making the most of Fat Tuesday in New Orleans. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Klint Kubiak is reportedly the new offensive coordinator for the Saints. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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It’s the pinnacle of carnival, Fat Tuesday and Mardi Gras Guide publisher Arthur Hardy says while it’s been an early carnival season it’s been a calm one for the most part in New Orleans because it doesn’t coincide with spring break.

Cut 3 (11) “…is good.”  

Hardy says while the crowds appear to be smaller than those from pre-pandemic Mardi Gras, he doesn’t see it as a reflection of crime in the city, he simply believes it’s timing and economics.

Cut 4 (13) “…next year.”

As for how Mardi Gras 2024 will be remembered, Hardy is quick to point out that while the Fat Lady hasn’t sung yet he believes it will be recalled as a regular one with back-to-normal parade routes.

Cut 5 (12) “…believe me.”

Next year Super Bowl LIX (59) will be on February 9th at the Superdome and Fat Tuesday three weeks later on March 4th.

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The Get a Pulse on PAD campaign raises awareness of peripheral artery disease. Dr. Foluso Fakorede (fa-lou-so fak-o-ree-dee) at Cardiovascular Solutions of Central Mississippi says PAD affects millions of Americans who have never heard of the disease or its risks.

Cut 6  (13) “..an amputation.” 

Black people have the lowest reported awareness of the disease with only six percent aware of PAD and its consequences. One in five Hispanics Americans have PAD.

Fakorede says one in 20 adults will have peripheral artery disease. He says fatty deposits called plaque can become clogged in your arteries like your kitchen sink…

Cut 7 (12) “…our arteries.”  

Some risk factors of PAD include family history, high blood pressure, diabetes, and a history of nicotine or tobacco use.

Fakorede points out 400 amputations occur every day because of PAD. He says knowing symptoms and early warning signs is critical.

Cut 8 (12) “…care doctor.” 

For more information about peripheral artery disease, visit PADPulse.org.

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Bulldog Community Outreach Incorporated is launching a name, image, and likeness collective to help Louisiana Tech student-athletes receive compensation for N-I-L deals. Spokesperson Ed Buckley says this initiative will benefit the Ruston community and the athlete.

Cut 9 (13) “…of funds.”

Buckley says this is an opportunity for student athletes to serve the community while boosting their name, image, and likeness. He believes this will be another tool in the recruiting bag….

Cut 10 (09) “…respective sports.”

Buckley says the changing landscape of college athletics requires additional support with NIL’s for student-athletes. He says fans and alumni can get in the game and get involved by…

Cut 11 (08) “…just started.”

 To support Bulldog Community Outreach, visit BuildTheLegacy.com/NIL .

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The Mardi Graws party will come to an end at midnight tonight. Former interim New Orleans Police Superintendent Michelle Woodfork says the revelers are enjoying sunny but cool Fat Tuesday….

Cut 12 (08)  “..Super Mardi gras”  

There are big parades across south Louisiana. This man in Covington is ready to host dozens of people along a parade route

Cut 13 (12) “…fun today’  

This woman is enjoying her first Mardi Gras in New Orleans. She’s from Richmond, Virginia and plans to be back…

Cut  14 (07) “..enjoy it”

You won’t find your typical Mardi Gras festivities with floats and beads in Eunice today, but you will find colorful costumes and traditions at Courir de Mardi Gras and chicken run. Teiko Foxx explains…

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Mardi Gras has been called the greatest free show on earth. Colleen Crain looks at the masked riders who make it possible…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Louisiana has decided not to accept $71 million in federal funds for the Summer EBT program, which helps low-income families feed their children when they are not in school. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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If you’re looking for a different kind of Mardi Gras experience this year, head to the City of Eunice. Instead of catching beads and doubloons, revelers chase chickens in colorful costumes during Courir de Mardi Gras & Chicken Run. Events Coordinator, Courtney Elkins says the chicken run is part of their Cajun tradition that everyone loves to participate in.

Cut 4 (13) “…a gumbo.”

The Courir de Mardi Gras is Eunice’s largest community event of the year.

Elkins says the celebration dates back to the late 19th century. She says men and women on horseback wear hand-crafted wire masks, colorful costumes, and… 

Cut 5 (12) “…old clothes.” 

Elkins says attendance continues to grow each year. Last year, she says people from around the world visited their rural town.

Cut 6 (12) “…New Zealand.”

The Courir de Mardi Gras parade starts at 3 pm.

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Mardi Gras has been called the greatest free show on earth and Publisher of The Mardi Gras Guide, Arthur Hardy says it’s never been easier to join a Krewe – some you must be born into, and others are looking for members, but none are free, and none are cheap…

Cut 7 (09) “…dues, costume.”

Fat Tuesday Revelers get a free show and gifts to take home. Hardy says it’s great for the parade goers, but it makes no economic sense for the krewe members to give gifts to strangers while hiding their faces, so why would you do it…

Cut 8 (09) “…really is.” 

Hardy says, there are other expenses for krewe members throughout the year, and the price of throws has gone up but it’s worth it…

Cut 9 (09)  “…you say.”

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As we enter Deep Gras, state police remind you to use technology to stay safe this Mardi Gras.  Lt. Melissa Matey says first and foremost have a sober driver, use an app for up-to-date info on traffic, and remember it’s not just those in the front seat that need to be buckled up.

Cut 10 (12) “…the traffic.”

Parking will most likely be an issue wherever you plan to celebrate, and Matey says taking the time to simply drop a pin where you’ve parked your vehicle can come in very handy later.

Cut 11 (06) “…turned around.” 

Another app Matey suggests that you might want to have downloaded and ready to use is the See Something, Send Something app. She says if you see something that needs to be reported to law enforcement, a picture on your phone can be invaluable.

Cut 12 (10) “…Send Something.” 

And if you witness an aggressive and/or impaired driving Matey encourages you to call them at *LSP (or *577).

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The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services will not participate in the Summer EBT program. Louisiana Budget Project Executive Director Jan Moeller says it’s a travesty the state has opted to forgo funding for eligible children to receive meals over the summer.

Cut 13 (13)  “…this opportunity.”

DCFS issued a statement that families deserve a pathway to self-sufficiency, and they are forgoing piecemeal programs that have more strings attached versus long-term solutions as a reason for opting out of the program. Moeller blames Governor Jeff Landry for the decision that he says ultimately hurts children.

Cut 14 (14) “…ends meet.”

Moeller says if Louisiana had opted in $71 million in federal funds would have been designated for the Summer EBT program.

Cut 15 (11) “…in Louisiana.”

Moeller says Louisiana has the second-highest poverty rate in the country and the third-highest child poverty rate in the US.

DCFS says existing feeding programs remain in effect, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides about $166 million in benefits on average each month to over 880,000 Louisianans, including about 390,000 children.

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There’s a lot of talk about LSU’s deep-pitching staff heading into the season. Freshman outfielder Jake Brown is impressed…

Cut 16 (19) “…we have a guy.” 

Junior right-hander Thatcher Hurd could be the starter in the season opener. Catcher Hayden Travinski says Hurd’s stuff is off the charts…

Cut 17 (18) “…this year.” 

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U-L Lafayette will open up its baseball season on Friday against Wright State. Cajuns Coach Matt Deggs says Jack Martinez will start on Friday. He’s a transfer from Trinity University. Freshman left-hander Chase Morgan will start in game two. Deggs says Morgan’s mound presence is impressive…

Cut 18 (18)  “…above-average pitches.”

LSU Alexandria says it’s enrollment surge is continuing, exceeding 54-hundred students. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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If you’re looking to celebrate Mardi Gras more traditionally and take in all the pomp and circumstance, you’ll want to head to southwest Louisiana. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The good times continue to roll in Lafourche Parish with four parades set for Fat Tuesday. Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou Sales and Marketing Manager Ian Wallis says parades will be rolling from Thibodaux to Chackbay and Golden Meadow.

Cut 3 (10) “…good time.”  

Wallis says what makes their carnival parades unique is that they are family-friendly, and you never meet a stranger in Lafourche Parish.

Cut 4 (09) “…for us.”

Wallis says you’ll want to get there early for a good spot on the parade route with four rolling on Fat Tuesday in Lafourche Parish. Over the weekend he says parking was tough considering the crowds.

Cut 5 (09) “…really good.”

On Tuesday Krewe of Gheens rolls at 11 am, Krewe of Neptune in Golden Meadow is at noon, Krewe of Ghana in Thibodaux is at 1 pm, and Krewe of Choupic is also at 1 pm in Chackbay.

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LSU Alexandria says it’s the fastest growing public university in Louisiana. Chancellor Paul Coreil says LSUA’s enrollment has reached an all-time high 5,405 students, nearly a six-percent increase since the fall semester…

Cut 6  (13) “..the university.” 

On-campus enrollment is up nearly 18-percent since Spring 2023, totaling 26-hundred students.

Coreil says more prospective students are enrolling in their innovative degree programs that prepares them for in-demand jobs, including nursing, aviation, cyber security, and…

Cut 7 (12) “…the nation.”  

LSUA’s online programs increased by nearly 59 percent compared to the previous spring, with 2, 727 students. LSUA boasts a remarkable 90 percent retention rate, with 9 out of 10 first time freshmen returning this spring.

Coreil says LSUA is gaining in popularity because of its tuition.

Cut 8 (10) “…so affordable.” 

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Outside of New Orleans one of the busiest spots on the globe Mardi Gras-wise is Calcasieu Parish. Visit Lake Charles spokesperson Matt Young says their season got off to a big start Friday with the Merchants parade and on Sunday they celebrated with a children’s parade.

Cut 9 (11) “…environment.”

And tonight is another big night with the Royal Gala at the Lake Charles event center. Young says it’s where all the Kings, Queens, and their courts from than 50 krewes are presented.

Cut 10 (10) “…take in.”

And for Fat Tuesday, Young says one of the most traditional Mardi Gras events begins at 8 am with the Iowa (Eye-oh-way) Chicken Run parade. He says individuals on horseback are essentially gathering ingredients to cook gumbo.

Cut 11 (11) “…their lifetime.”

From noon until 8 pm on Tuesday Young says there’s a block party in Lake Charles featuring parades, food trucks, live music, kids events, and arts and crafts.

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Super Bowl 58 ended last night with Kansas City beating San Francisco in overtime in Las Vegas. Today Vegas officials handed off the football to New Orleans who will host Super Bowl 59 on February 9, 2025. Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation CEO Jay Cicero says they are moving into phase two of their preparation…

Cut 12 (12)  “..properly”  

Cicero expects the Super Bowl next year will produce an economic impact of over 500-million dollars for the local economy. He says the game will bring in over six-thousand media members…

Cut 13 (09) “…what we do.” 

Federal Judge Shelly Dick has ordered the state’s legislative district maps to be redrawn on the grounds it violated the Voting Rights Act and dilutes the black vote. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Walk Ons restaurant will move its main office to Atlanta to support brand growth. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Beginning in August, The National Hurricane Center will have a new experimental cone graphic that will provide more information especially for at-risk inland communities. Colleen Crain has the story.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Colleen Crain”

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Governor Jeff Landry’s special session to address crime in Louisiana will begin next Monday and wrap on March 6^th. Monroe Senator Stewart Cathey believes the legislation Landry is calling for will make a difference in deterring crime.

Cut 4 (12) “…the state.”

Cathey believes the growth of juvenile crime is among the priorities that need to be addressed. He says if 17-year-olds who are committing an overwhelming majority of juvenile crimes can be tried and held as adults it will be impactful.

Cut 5 (10) “…crime issues.” 

And while most 17-year-olds who are charged with murder are typically charged as adults, Cathey says it’s still at the discretion of the local district attorney.

Cut 6 (11) “…for Louisiana.”

Cathey says he’s also in favor of allowing the Attorney General to have an expanded role in prosecuting crimes when local District Attorneys refuse to and he’s also in favor of expanding legal and humane methods for the use of the death penalty as punishment.

The ACLU of Louisiana stated that they are deeply concerned with the “tough on crime” sweeping policy proposals Governor Landry has issued for the special session from the restriction of parole eligibility and lowering the age of majority for juveniles.

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A federal judge has ordered the state’s legislative maps to be redrawn because it violates the Voting Rights Act by diluting the black vote. ULM Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says it’s a momentous ruling from Judge Shelly Dick.

Cut 7 (12) “…in Louisiana.”

Cross believes Governor Jeff Landry will have lawmakers address the legislative maps during a regular session because a timeline was not outlined in the ruling.

Cut 8 (09) “…few years.” 

Because litigation has been filed against the most recent congressional map, Cross believes the Republican-controlled legislature would ideally like to avoid redrawing the legislative maps as long as possible.

Cut 9 (09)  “…to do so.”

Cross says once the legislative districts are redrawn, he expects it will have lasting effects on how power is allocated at the state capitol.

Speaker of the House Phillip DeVillier says because no timeline was given for redrawing the state’s legislative districts the priority of the House is to address the serious crime issues outlined in the special session called by Governor Landry.

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Walk Ons Sports Bistreaux, a Baton Rouge based franchise, is packing up and moving its corporate headquarters from Baton Rouge to Atlanta to continue its growth trajectory. UNO Business Professor Mark Rosa says the state is losing population and businesses as a result of the existing tax burden.

Cut 10 (11) “…winning areas.”

The first Walk Ons restaurant opened a short distance from LSU’s Tiger Stadium in 2003. And the brand continued to grow in the Bayou State with 19 franchise locations.

Rosa says we’ve seen this tax story before as companies relocate to other states from Louisiana. He says the state needs a better tax system to keep businesses and compete with other states.

Cut 11 (11) “…eliminating it.” 

In 2022, the company opened a satellite office in Atlanta. As a restaurant industry hub, Atlanta will allow the company to continue better serve franchisees and guests.

Compared to other states, Rosa says businesses in Louisiana pay a higher share of taxes. He says we must actively seek real tax solutions to retain businesses to grow the economy, not shrink the economy…

Cut 12 (12) “…for them.” 

Walk Ons currently has 75 franchise stores in 15 states.

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Beginning in August, look for more information on The National Hurricane Center’s cone graphic that will extend inland and describe more than landfall. The familiar Cone of Uncertainty will still be available, but Dept Director Jamie Rhone says a new experimental graphic will be available.

Cut 13 (12)  “…particular forecast.”

The maps will not be overly complicated and will include different colors to show where a storm is expected on a certain day and time.

Rhone says the current cone graphic does not provide a ton of information and is focused on coastal areas. The danger, he says, is that most people infer the impact and their risks with too little information…

Cut 14 (10) “…step forward.”

Destructive winds associated with hurricanes stretch beyond coastal areas and far inland causing downed trees, damage to homes, weeks long power outages and Rhone says, inland residents need to know their risks…

Cut 15 (12) “…that community.”

The new experimental cone graphics will be available within 30 minutes of an advisory release.

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The second-ranked LSU Tigers will open the season on Friday by hosting Virginia Military Institute on Friday at 2 PM. Coach Jay Johnson says he’s yet to settle on a game-one starter, but he’s not concerned because he has plenty of options…

Cut 16 (20) “…that’s an exaggeration” 

Johnson didn’t list those five candidates. But Thatcher Hurd, Luke Holman, Gage Jump, Griffin Herring and Javen Coleman are likely options. Three of those pitchers are left-handers. LSU has 10 southpaws on its roster and Herring, who is one of those left-handers, says it’s an impressive collection of talent…

Cut 17 (16) “…well” 

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The 13th ranked LSU Lady Tigers rallied back from a ten-point halftime deficit to beat Alabama 85-66. Angel Reese had 27 points and 19 rebounds. But it was the defense that sparked the rally as LSU outscored the Crimson Tide 30-9 in the third quarter. Coach Kim Mulkey decided to press the Tide after halftime…

Cut 18 (16)  “..desperation mode.”

LSU does not play again until next Monday at Texas A&M.

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For the second time this season, the LSU men’s basketball team gave up 109 points to 16th-ranked Alabama and lost to the Crimson Tide 109-92 on Saturday in the Maravich Center. This was a game for 32 minutes, but Bama pulled away with 33-17 run. Coach Matt McMahon did not like his team’s shot selection in the second half…

Cut 19 (16) “…for us” 

The Tigers are at Florida on Tuesday.

The governor’s proposed budget maintains the pay increase teachers received last year, but it continues to be not permanent. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Revelers will be screaming “throw me something mister” this Mardi Gras weekend in all corners of the Bayou State. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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The Landry Administration has presented state lawmakers with a proposed 44-billion dollar budget. Commissioner of Administration Taylor Barras says the amount of state spending is about the same for next fiscal year as it is this year. He says they didn’t want to increase spending with a temporary sales tax expiring in July 2025…

Cut 3 (10) “…possibly could”  

Barras says the proposed budget has more dollars for State Police as the governor wants to add more troopers and form a specific troop to work with the New Orleans Police Department in fighting crime…

Cut 4 (10) “…would be.”

There is also 198-million dollars in the budget to maintain the temporary $2,000 pay raise teachers received last year. But some teachers might see a reduction in pay from that $2,000. Barras says the governor would like to give more money to fill hard to find math and science teaching jobs or teachers in rural areas.

Cut 5 (12) “..type of qualifications”

This is just the starting point for budget discussions. Lawmakers will spend the next few months making changes to the governor’s proposal before agreeing on a spending plan in late May or early June.

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Thousands of people from around the world will flock to the Bayou State to let the good times roll this Mardi Gras weekend. And Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser says New Orleans isn’t the only city that does it big…

Cut 6  (12) “..north Louisiana.” 

Nungesser says revelers can enjoy elaborate floats and entertainment at carnival celebrations throughout Louisiana. He points out there’s a Mardi Gras celebration for everyone – no matter what you’re looking for…

Cut 7 (12) “…over Louisiana.”  

More than 225,000 people attended Mardi Gras in Shreveport last year, according to a study conducted by the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau.

Big Mardi Gras parades will take place in Lafayette, Lake Charles, Houma-Thibodaux, Alexandria, and Shreveport. There is a chance for heavy rain on Sunday but Nungesser says revelers know how to adjust…

Cut 8 (11) “…this year.” 

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130 Louisiana State Troopers are in New Orleans assisting NOPD for the last weekend of Carnival. Lt Melissa Matey says troopers will be in and around the French Quarter, the Central Business District and parade routes.

Cut 9 (10) “…people safe.”

Matey reminds revelers to use common sense to avoid being a victim of crime, for example, do not carry large amounts of cash, avoid walking in dark areas, and remember there’s safety in numbers so never walk alone.

Cut 10 (10) “…(x2) that point.”

And if you’re bringing children with you, Matey suggests taking a photo of them, so you’ll have a recent picture and one with that they are wearing so they are easier to identify if they get separated from your group.

Matey also encourages paradegoers to text MARDIGRAS, all caps, all together to 77295.

Cut 11 (13) “…the crowd.”

And she reminds you to never drink and drive and that troopers will be on the lookout for impaired drivers.

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It’s Super Bowl Weekend and according to the American Gaming Association, 68 million people are expected to place a bet on the big game. And Louisiana Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Johns says AGA is predicting more than $23 billion will be legally wagered in the US.

Cut 12 (11)  “…huge weekend”  

As for the Pelican State, Johns says it’s hard to predict how much will be wagered on Super Bowl 58, but he says since sports betting went live at casinos it’s grown every month and boomed even more with mobile wagering.

Cut 13 (12) “…a month.” 

And Johns reminds you while it’s fun to place a bet, do so within your means…

Cut  14 (07) “…our message.”

You must be 21 years old to bet in Louisiana and only in parishes with legalized gambling. If you have a gambling problem, call 1-877-770-STOP (7867)

Governor Jeff Landry is sending Louisiana National Guard troops to the U-S Mexico border. Jeff Palermo has the details…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The Rapides Parish town of Boyce is without a police force after it had to layoff six of its officers. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington” 

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Governor Jeff Landry announces he’s sending Louisiana National Guard troops to the southern border to assist the Texas National Guard in border security. The deployment is expected to cost the state three-million dollars and Landry says it’s well spent money….

Cut 3 (05) “…in Texas”  

Landry says several other states have also committed to sending their National Guard troops to the southern border.

He says the mission will help train the guardsmen for active duty and it will also help slow the amount of fentanyl entering the United States. He says many people know of someone who has died from a fentanyl overdose

Cut 4 (13) “…they please”

Landry says the deployment could begin next month and he would not disclose how many guardsmen will be sent to Texas. Louisiana National Guard Brigadier General Thomas Friloux says their missions will be assigned through the Texas National Guard and they will not be in charge of detaining illegal citizens crossing the border

Cut 5 (10) “…under Texas law”

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Financial problems have resulted in the town of Boyce having to lay-off its entire police force, except for police chief Ronald Goudeau (Good-oh). Goudeau says the town’s finances could no longer support the salaries of his six officers…

Cut 6  (10) “..financial plan” 

Goudeau says he’ll continue to patrol the town daily and Rapides Parish Sheriff deputies will also assist in law enforcement duties.

Cut 7 (10) “…personal rapport”  

Goudeau is hopeful the town’s financial house can get back in order, so he can hire police officers again…

Cut 8 (08) “…all around us.” 

Goudeau says he’s been the police chief in Boyce since 2019, money problems plagued the town back then. Boyce mayor, Kelvin McCoy, says the police chief has significant authority over his budget and his budget has been completely expended.

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Two of the state’s top educators were surprised Wednesday with the Milken Educator award and each received a $25 thousand dollar cash prize. The recipients are Northshore High science teacher Kelly Ryan and Destrehan sixth grade science teacher Lauren Waguespack. Ryan says she could have never prepared herself for such an award.

Cut 9 (09) “…be me.”

Ryan is the first-ever Milken Educator Award honoree in St. Tammany Parish Public School system history. The Northshore alumna was honored for challenging her 11^th and 12^th grade science students to take an active role in learning…

Cut 10 (12) “…them think.”

Ryan and Waguespack are two of four educators in the Bayou State who earned the 2023-2024 Milken Educator Award. Christine Bayard of Johnston-Hopkins Elementary in Iberia Parish and Derrick Winn of Crestworth Elementary in East Baton Rouge Parish also received the Milken Educator award this week.

During a school assembly, Waguespack was recognized with the “Oscar of Teaching” for her innovative teaching skills and pursuing leadership opportunities. The sixth-grade teacher at Harry Hurst Middle believes this award is a tremendous honor for educators…

Cut 11 (13) “…productive people.”

Waguespack says her goal is to create an environment where learning becomes a journey. She hopes to make a lasting impression on the lives of her science students.

Cut 12 (13) “…a scientist.”

Two Louisiana teachers won the Milken educator award, the nation’s preeminent teachers’ program. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The LSU football program put the finishing touches on its 2024 recruiting class today. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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U-S Senator Bill Cassidy is once again not seeing eye-to-eye with Governor Jeff Landry as the senior senator opposes the idea of sending Louisiana National Guard troops to the U-S-Mexico border. Cassidy has concerns about the projected cost to the state…

Cut 3 (08) “…like Louisiana.”  

Cassidy also does not support the state moving federal elections to party primaries in 2026. He says such a move will cost taxpayers an estimated 135-million dollars over ten years.

Cassidy says three million dollars to send National Guard troops to the southern border, 135-million dollars for party primaries. He says that 138-million dollars could help proposed tolls for a new I-10 Lake Charles bridge…

Cut 4 (12) “…that frustration.”

Landry is expected to provide more details about a National Guard deployment to the southern border at a press conference tomorrow. Cassidy says he’s as frustrated as anyone about the number of migrants entering the United States, but using state dollars to address a federal problem is not the solution…

Cut 5 (07) “…135 million”

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Two south Louisiana teachers earned the national Milken Educator Award and a cash prize of $25,000 on Tuesday. The winners were Christine Bayard and Derrick Winn. New Iberia math teacher, Christine Bayard, won the award for her innovative approach to transforming her classroom into real-world environments including outer space.

Cut 6  (12) “..the moon.” 

Bayard, who teaches at Johnston-Hopkins Elementary, learned of the award during an assembly attended by Milken Educator Award Founder Lowell Milken and State superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley.

After getting the surprise of her life, the UL Lafayette graduate says her commitment to invest in education has paid off.

Cut 7 (09) “…just amazing.”  

Winn, a third-grade math and science teacher in Baton Rouge, was recognized for his ability to captivate his young students through mind-blogging math challenges. The Crestworth Elementary educator was unaware of his candidacy for the award…

Cut 8 (12) “…very appreciative.” 

Bayard and Winn joins a group of 74 teachers who have been recognized as a Milken Educator from across the country during the 2023-2024 school year.

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Southeastern Louisiana University has deployed four research buoys to monitor the Lake Maurepas ecosystem. The goal is to see where the lake stands before Air Products begin its project to inject carbon emissions into wells deep beneath the lake. Director of Lake Maurepas Monitoring Program Kyle Piller says the buoy captures real time data four times every hour…

Cut 9 (10) “…dioxide levels.”

Two buoys are placed in Livingston Parish, one in Tangipahoa Parish, and one in St. John Parish. The Blind River buoy has a weather station to gather air temperature, wind speed, barometric pressure, and precipitation.

Piller says residents have expressed concerns about carbon capture in the lake. He says if one of the perimeters is out of the normal range…

Cut 10 (13) “…entire project.”

Researchers will monitor the health of fish, check the condition of the wetlands, and take water samples. 

Piller says the information will be posted on easy to read dashboards on southeastern dot edu forward slash lakemaurepas.

Cut 11 (10) “…this lake.”