If you’re looking for something to do this weekend you’ve got two festivals to choose from. The Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival and New Orleans French Quarter Festival. Teiko Foxx has more….

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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As Monday’s Tax deadline approaches you might think it’s a bonus if you’re getting money back, but truth be told it isn’t. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (31)  “I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The annual rejection of bills to raise the minimum wage in Louisiana occurred at the state capitol on Thursday. Teiko Foxx has a recap…

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Thousands will head to southeastern Louisiana to enjoy sweet strawberries, live music, and great food. The Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival and French Quarter Festival are happening this weekend. Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser says both festivals are a big economic boost for the state.

Cut 4 (11) “…$400 million dollars.”

Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival is the second largest festival in the Bayou State. Nearly 300,000 people are expected to attend the four-day festival which kicked off Thursday and ends Sunday.

In addition to music, Nungesser says the weekend will be filled with arts, crafts, and strawberries in everything imaginable. He says the festival isn’t just a festival…

Cut 5 (07) “…their living.” 

In New Orleans, the French Quarter festival kicks off Thursday and ends Sunday. The free event features more than 300 entertainers on 25 different stages. Nungesser says a diversity of food and vendors are a big attraction.

Cut 6 (10) “…for more.”

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Despite former President Trump calling Senator Bill Cassidy one of the worst senators in the country, Louisiana’s senior senator seems to be taking it all in stride. Cassidy says if he’s working to do something positive for the country, the state, and those around him…

Cut 7 (08) “…achieve them.”

Even if Trump believes Cassidy is quote “A total flake” the Republican says he’s responsible for securing more federal funding for Louisiana than his counterparts.

Cut 8 (07) “…Fiscal Year 2024.” 

That $1.2 billion includes $5.5 million for mental health and substance abuse services and $2.4 million for the New Orleans crime lab.

Cut 9 (09)  “…deserves justice.”

Cassidy also secured $28 million for the Morganza to the Gulf project, $12 million for water infrastructure, and $6 million for the Team Gleason ALS Foundation.

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Monday is Tax Day and while you might think getting a big return is worth bragging about, a greater New Orleans, CPA says it really isn’t. Catherine Roe with Cowart Roe says in reality it means the government has been holding onto your money for the last year when it could have already been in your pocket.

Cut 10 (11) “…money back.”

Ideally, Roe says, you want to break even on your taxes, so you don’t owe any more and aren’t receiving money back that you’ve loaned the government for the last year.

Cut 11 (11) “…your taxes.”

Entergy and CLECO are working to restore power to thousands of Louisiana customers after yesterday’s severe weather. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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House Education approves legislation that says teachers must use a students name and pronoun that aligns with their birth sex unless the child’s parent says otherwise. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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Cleco says 24,000 customers remain without power after tornadoes and strong winds ripped through the state Wednesday. The utility company says it has brought in 400 additional line mechanics to help in power restoration efforts. Spokesperson Jennifer Cahill says they also have specialized equipment to help move debris.

Cut 3 (08) “…make repairs.”  

There are about four-thousand customers in St. Landry Parish without power. High winds destroyed 50 poles and downed power lines in Opelousas.

Most of Cleco’s outages are in Slidell where initial surveys indicate an area near Old Spanish Trail was hit by at least an EF-1 tornado. Cahill says their St. Tammany customers could be without power for multiple days.

Cut 4 (11) “…looking at.” 

There are also dozens of broken poles in Slidell, along with damaged crossarms.

For the latest updates, visit CLECO.com

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Entergy Louisiana expects to restore power to the majority of its 13,000 customers who are without power by tonight. Spokesperson David Freese says crews are working to clear debris and repair power lines.

Cut 5 (10)  “…the air.”

Freese says they plan to have the power restored for most of its customers by tonight. But he says it could be until tomorrow for customers in Calcasieu Parish and the Lafayette area…

Cut 6  (09) “…back on.” 

Entergy customers can visit entergy.com for the latest outage updates.

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House Education has advanced a bill to the House floor that says teachers do not have to use a student’s preferred gender pronoun unless the child’s parents request that the child be identified as another gender. Bossier City Representative Raymond Crews is the author of the bill…

Cut 7 (09) “…the legislation ”  

Even if the parent requests a pronoun that differs from a child’s biological sex, the teacher can still refuse over religious and moral objections.

St. Tammany Parish resident Jamie Segura testified in opposition and questioned how this legislation will improve education in public schools…

Cut 8 (12) “…real education issues” 

Crews calls his legislation a parental rights bill, but Laplace Representative Sylvia Taylor told Crews the legislation is not needed…

Cut 9 (13) “…to the home.” 

The bill was approved on a nine-to-three vote.

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Officials in St. Tammany Parish say the damage caused by Wednesday’s tornado in Slidell is reminiscent of Hurricane Katrina. Parish President Mike Cooper says there’s significant destruction to homes, commercial buildings, churches, and power poles.

Cut 10 (07) “…Hurricane Ida. “

Cooper says nearby parishes and cities have graciously offered assistance with clean-up and they are asking for volunteers to help residents with removing and sorting construction debris from downed vegetation.

Cut 11 (09) “…is needed.”

The parish has also set up a distribution point for ice, water, and tarps. As clean-up and damage assessment continue, Cooper says they’ve also declared a parish-wide state of emergency that allows them to mobilize their debris pick-up contractor and more.

Cut 12 (11) “…citizens.” 

They are asking residents to self-report damage, you can find a link at LouisianaRadioNetwork.com

Three people have been arrested and charged in the death of James Ingram of Colfax after his body was found burned in the Kisatchie National Forest. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Louisiana Senate has unanimously approved legislation that would stop a plan to issue hefty speeding fines on the I-10 Atchafalaya Basin Bridge. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (29)  “I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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The House Education Committee approves legislation that would prohibit public school teachers from discussing topics involving sexual orientation and gender identity with students . Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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Multiple arrests have been made in Grant and Rapides Parishes after the discovery of 68-year-old James Morrow Ingram of Colfax’s burned body in the Kisatchie National Forest on April 2^nd. Grant Parish Sheriff Steven McCain says Ingram left his home Easter night and drove to Alexandria where he met Michael Shane Taylor and Jessica Bledsoe in a parking lot, and they injected drugs into him.

Cut 4 (10) “…passed away.”

McCain says Taylor and Bledsoe then drove around in Ingram’s car with his body inside and eventually drove to Kisatchie National Forest. They removed his body and left it in the forest on Monday.

Cut 5 (09) “…on fire.” 

On Tuesday night, McCain says they received a Facebook tip that Ingram’s vehicle was in the parking lot of a restaurant in Alexandria. The car was secured and Ingram’s whereabouts were still unknown. The following day Taylor and Bledsoe were identified on video surveillance using Ingram’s credit card.

Pineville Police Chief Darrel Basco says the case was solved through the cooperation of several law enforcement agencies who worked tirelessly to arrest three individuals.

Cut 6 (08) “…this investigation.”

Toxicology results are pending as to what was injected into Ingram’s body. Both Taylor and Bledsoe face second-degree murder charges, unlawful disposal of remains, and obstruction of justice charges. Bledsoe also faces arson charges along with Levy Edmond Bordelon.

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The National Weather Service has confirmed that an EF-2 tornado caused a considerable amount of damage in Lake Charles. Mayor Nic Hunter says a neighborhood in the central area took the biggest hit.

 Cut 7 (10) “…structural damage.”

Forecasters say it produced winds up to 115 miles per hour and traveled over a mile.  It touched down east of McNeese State University and caused roof damage to Moss Memorial Health Complex.  Because the needs of those displaced by the tornado can change rapidly Hunter says it’s best to donate to the United Way.

Cut 8 (10) “…United Way.” 

Residents on Vernon Road and crossed Common, Center, Harvard, and Kirkman streets were impacted by the EF-2 tornado, according to NWS.  Hunter says the city will bounce back.

Cut 9 (11)  “…need to do.”

Thankfully, no fatalities or serious injuries were reported.

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The House Education Committee approves legislation that prohibits teachers from discussing sexual orientation and gender identity in K-through-12 public classrooms. Haughton Representative Dodie Horton believes these topics should discussed at home, not in the classroom…

Cut 10 (08) “…for this.”

A former substitute teacher who lives in Mandeville traveled to Baton Rouge to voice her opposition to the legislation. She describes herself as a heterosexual who sees this type of legislation as mean-spirited…

A three-day trial ended today regarding a lawsuit filed by Republicans over the constitutionality of the Congressional map approved by lawmakers in January. Brooke Thorington spoke with a lawmaker who testified

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A tornado has caused extensive damage to the St. Tammany Parish city of Slidell. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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New Orleans Representative Mandie Landry was one of several lawmakers who testified in the congressional map trial that concluded today in Shreveport. The Democrat says she told the court there were two reasons why lawmakers were pressured to pass the map with two majority Black districts, the timeline issued by Federal Judge Shelly Dick…

Cut 3 (09) “…a legislator.”  

A group of Republicans, which include Congressman Garett Graves, filed the lawsuit claiming the map violated the equal protection clause and is a case of racial gerrymandering.

As to why the governor wanted to alter Graves’s district, Representative Landry says she believes it’s because the two don’t see eye-to-eye and Graves backed another candidate in the governor’s race…

Cut 4 (05) “…last year.” 

Landry, who’s also an attorney, says she was a bit surprised at the number of attorneys and out-of-state lawyers who were spectators in the trial. She says it drove home the importance of congressional maps and how decisions made in DC are riding on political boundaries.

Cut 5 (10)  “…the second.”

Despite the ongoing litigation Rep. Landry expects the map that passed in January will be the one used for the November election.

A ruling on the trial is expected in the next few days.

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A likely tornado injured several people and caused extensive damage in Slidell this morning. Slidell police spokesperson Daniel Seuzeneau provided an update on Facebook…

Cut 6  (10) “…buildings damaged.” 

Seuzeneau says the worst hit area appears to be Pontchartrain Drive near Kostmayer Avenue…

Cut 7 (07) “…leaning power poles ”  

Seuzeneau describes the injuries sustained as minor to moderate.

Cut 8 (12) “…miracle” 

Mayor Greg Cromer says it’s the worst damage the city has sustained since Hurricane Katrina. St. Tammany Parish government says multiple people were injured and hundreds of homes, if not more, were damaged.

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Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis is gearing up for his second term after easily winning his reelection bid in March. Ellis received 64 percent of the vote. Among the top priorities for his next term, Ellis plans to bring passenger rail service I-20 corridor.

Cut 9 (11) “…our community.” 

Crime is a big problem across the state. Ellis says Monroe is unfortunately not immune, but he’s providing more resources to the issue.

Cut 10 (12) “…our city.. “

Ellis’ administration helped secure a big economic development win earlier this year, when Amazon announced plans to build a 56 thousand square foot last mile facility. The mayor is excited about bringing more jobs to the area.

Cut 11 (09) “…business grow.”

Ellis will be sworn-in for his second term in June.

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After strong storms moved through the state overnight and into the morning, packing winds as high as 70 miles per hour Entergy Louisiana reports widespread outages. Spokesperson David Freese says crews are working to assess the damage and restore power as soon as possible.

Cut 12 (06) “…along with it.” 

Freese says they are trying to notify customers with estimated restoration times, but it could take some time due to the widespread damage. He says there are reports of broken poles, trees on power lines, and debris on the roads hampering access in areas.

Cut 13 (10) “…restored.”

As of 2PM approximately 58,000 Entergy Customers are without power.

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The severe weather has left some highways impassable because of fallen trees or high water. DOTD is reminding Louisianans to travel only if necessary. Spokesperson Rodney Mallet…

Cut  14 (10) “…some areas.” 

DOTD crews are working to remove fallen trees, other debris, and post warning signs. Louisianans are reminded not to drive through areas with downed power lines or high standing water. If you absolutely must get on the roadway…

Cut 15 (12) “…the roadway.”

Drivers are encouraged to check road conditions by dialing 511 or visit dotd.la.gov.

A bill that would prohibit students’ use of cell phones in the classroom passed unanimously out of the Senate on Monday. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Legislation to expand the school voucher program passes in the House after explosive testimony from a surprise ally. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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In a bid to curb classroom distractions, legislation aimed at restricting student cellphone usage or any electronic device during school hours unanimously passed the Senate. Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell says cellphones in the classroom are a big distraction for students.

Cut 3 (10) “…continual distraction.”  

The bill bans students from carrying cellphones “on his person” while in the classroom. Mizell says her bill would require students to put their cellphones in designated places during school hours.     

Cut 4 (13) “…or not.” 

Mizell says school leaders have the authority to have their own policy of no cellphones in the classroom, but they do not. She was questioned on the Senate floor about students not having a phone in the the event of an emergency, such as a school shooter…

Cut 5 (13)  “…of directions.”

The bill heads to the House for more discussion.

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There was emotional testimony in the House over expanding the school voucher program. House Bill 745 will eventually allow all families to apply for state grants for private school tuition regardless of financial need. New Orleans Democrat Jason Hughes surprised Republican lawmakers with his support of the bill.

Cut 6  (12) “…hardly read.” 

Alexandria Democrat Representative Ed Larvadain spoke against the bill saying it would jeopardize funding for public schools, which are already having problems recruiting and retaining teachers.

Cut 7 (10) “…public education.”  

Hughes acknowledged that his stance for the bill could cost him his seat but says he came to the legislature to make tough decisions and those who know him, heart know his heart for children.

Cut 8 (09) “…(clapping).” 

Larvadain says moving education money around increases the possibility of fraud and abuse. He worries local superintendents will be faced with closing schools and he’s very concerned about the closures of elementary schools forcing young students to be bused even farther from home.

Cut 9 (10) “…they’re tired.” 

The House passed the bill 71-32. It was not along party lines either, six Republican lawmakers voted against it, and some Democrats voted in favor.

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New Orleans Congressman Troy Carter commends the Environmental Protection Agency for implementing a final rule aimed at reducing cancer causing air pollution released by 51 plants and refineries in Louisiana. The rule significantly reduces the amount of chloroprene, ethylene oxide among others. Carter says this is a step towards environmental justice.

Cut 10 (10) “…air pollutants. “

EPA says the rule will reduce both EtO and cholorprene emissions by nearly 80 percent and reduce nearby cancer rates by 96 percent. Carter says many of these plants are located near low-income communities with people who suffer with elevated health risks. The rule slashes more than six thousand tons of toxic air pollution by requiring facilities to conduct fenceline monitoring and lowering emissions.

Cut 11 (12) “…be safe.”

The EPA action targets Denka Performance Elastomers facility in LaPlace which is the largest source of toxic emissions in the U-S. Carter says this rule addresses public health risks in local communities and protects future generations.

Cut 12 (13) “…in families.” 

Denka plans to challenge the rule in court. The Louisiana Chemical Association argues that EPA used flawed data in determining this new regulation. The LCA plans to meet with it’s members to decide who to respond to this new EPA regulation.

The House Civil Law Committee approves legislation that would prohibit a transgender individual from using a public bathroom that aligns with their gender identity. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (41) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Legislation to repeal vehicle inspection stickers hits a road bump. Brooke Thorington explains…

Cut 2 (32)  “I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The Ragin Cajuns baseball team is in the national rankings for the first time since 2017. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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38-year-old Rodney Guillote Jr. of Pineville faces first-degree murder after he allegedly physically abused his infant daughter resulting in multiple injuries and bleeding on the brain. Rapides Parish Sheriff’s spokesperson Tommy Carnline says detectives began their investigation after receiving a call from a local hospital about an infant with extensive bruising.

Cut 4 (08) “…two weeks.”

The 5-month-old child was airlifted to Children’s Hospital in New Orleans with injuries to her torso, head, and lower body. Guillote also assaulted 27-year-old Elisha Mazerolle, the mother of the young girl.

Carnline says Mazerolle was arrested for principal to first-degree murder.

Cut 5 (10) “…law enforcement.” 

Carnline says the heartbreaking case prompts a call to safeguard the most innocent and vulnerable among us. He says programs and agencies statewide are on standby to help parents struggling with infant situations.

Cut 6 (06) “…was senseless.”

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The House Civil Law Committee approves legislation that would prohibit transgender individuals from using a public bathroom that’s in line with their gender identity. Denham Springs Representative Roger Wilder says he’s trying to prevent a biological woman from having to share a bathroom with a transgender female

 Cut 7 (08) “…situations of assault”

Wilder says this legislation is in response to a biological male who identifies as a woman, demanding access to a female changing room at a facility in his district. The proposal covers bathrooms in schools, prisons and domestic violence shelters.

An advocate for domestic violence victims, Morgan Lamandre, argued this legislation puts federal funding for domestic violence shelters at risk because Louisiana’s shelters would be in violation of federal rules

Cut 8 (10) “…what they receive.” 

Trans advocate Britain Forsyth urges members of the House Civil Law Committee not to force transgender children to use a bathroom that aligns with their biological sex

Cut 9 (11)  “…very scared.”

Despite the concerns raised, Baton Rouge Representative Emily Chenevert looks at this legislation as a common-sense bill…

Cut 10 (07) “…clarity.”

The measure heads to the House floor for more discussion.

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A first amendment rights group is concerned about Governor Landry’s push that colleges mandate all student-athletes be present during the national anthem. Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression Director Alex Morey says Landry’s request ties students to support his beliefs and views.

Cut 14 (09)  “…the flag.”

The first amendment in the U-S constitution protects students from being required to pledge allegiance or salute the U-S flag in public schools.

Morey says what’s more concerning is that LSU may possibly comply with Landry’s request. She says students are free to choose how or whether they want to demonstrate patriotism.

Cut 15 (13)  “…expressive rights.”

Morey says there is nothing less patriotic than government actors forcing their personal views on citizens.

Cut 16 (11)  “…American system.” 

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The Ragin Cajuns baseball team is ranked in the major polls for the first time since 2017 as U-L Lafayette has the nation’s longest winning streak at 15 games. Coach Matt Deggs is proud of his team…

Cut 17 (12) “…these boys

The Cajuns are coming off a sweep over in-state foe ULM. U-L Lafayette is 24-8 overall, 11-1 in the Sun Belt. They are ranked as high as 19th in the D-1 baseball poll. Deggs says heading into the season, he wanted to see attendance increase at Tigue Moore Field and he wanted to see the Cajuns back in the national rankings…

Cut 18 (13)  “…work to do.”  

U-L Lafayette will host Prairie View A-and-M tonight, Louisiana Tech tomorrow and then they’ll host Marshall for a weekend series starting on Friday. Deggs says he wants to make sure the streak doesn’t become a burden…

Cut 19 (17) “…play the game.”   

Legendary Peabody boys basketball coach Charles Smith joins basketball greatest names as he’s an inductee into  the Naismith basketball Hall of Fame. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Three federal judges in Shreveport are hearing a suit filed by Republicans against the most recent congressional map passed by the legislature. Brooke Thorington explains.

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

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Legendary boys’ basketball Coach Charles Smith of Peabody High School in Alexandria will be inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Smith is one of a handful of high school coaches to join the ranks. Smith says it is an honor to join the elite group.

Cut 3 (12) “…professional coaches.”  

Smith won 9 state championships with the Warhorses and has coached Peabody since 1979. The Basketball Hall of Famer is Louisiana’s all-time winningest head coach with 1, 208 wins.

Cut 4 (13) “…for me.” 

During his tenure with the Warhorses, Smith has helped facilitate over 70 players in securing scholarships to pursue collegiate basketball opportunities. He says one of the greatest fulfillment in his coaching career…

Cut 5 (12)  “…of work.”

Smith is one of 13 inductees of the 2024 class. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on August 17 in Springfield, Massachusetts.

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LSU running back Trey Holly no longer faces an attempted murder charge as a result of a shooting that occurred in Farmerville on February 15th that injured two people. A Union Parish Grand Jury has rejected the charge. LSU football Coach Brian Kelly says they felt good about Holly’s chances of avoiding serious charges…

Cut 6  (05) “…don’t know” 

The 19-year-old still faces one felony gun charge. His attorney, Michael Small, says Holly intends to plead not guilty to the charge. Kelly does not expect the criminal case against Holly to drag on…

Cut 7 (12) “…reinstatement”  

Holly said in a social media post on February 17th that he was 100-percent innocent and had been falsely identified, accused and arrested. He was suspended from the team when he was arrested. But Kelly says they will look at reinstating him once his case is resolved.

Cut 8 (04) “…welcome him back.” 

Holly appeared in three games as a freshman last season, but is expected to see significant playing time this sophomore season. He’s the all-time leading rusher in Louisiana High School football history at 10,523 yards.

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A federal court in Shreveport is hearing arguments in a suit filed by Republicans over the state’s congressional map which added a second majority-black district. Loyola University law professor Dane Ciolino says the plaintiffs claim the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment and the map is racial gerrymandering.

Cut 9 (10) “…only factor.” 

In recent affirmative action decisions, Ciolino says the United States Supreme Court has been critical of states treating race differently. He says if race was the predominant factor for drawing the maps…

Cut 10 (07) “…protection clause. “

Ciolino says the state will argue there was a compelling state interest to satisfy the Voting Rights Act of 1965 in passing the current map. He believes it will be difficult for the state to contend because…

Cut 11 (09) “…only factor.”

A May deadline has been set for a decision so candidates will know the districts they’ll be running for in the November 5^th election.

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April 30^th is the deadline for those still in travel trailers as part of the Ida Sheltering program. Jacques Thibodeaux, who became director of GOSHEP in January says the deadline for those living in about 540 units, has been extended numerous times by FEMA and the state, but with a state fiscal cliff looming…

Cut 12 (12) “…the state.” 

Thibodeaux says those still in the program have been notified of the deadline and are working with their caseworkers on future housing options. He says GOSHEP is also awaiting a State Attorney General’s opinion on donating travel trailers.

Among the reasons those still in the program have been unable to rebuild, Thibodeaux says is the ongoing insurance crisis that has forced many to lose or drop coverage.

Cut 13 (10) “…piece of it.”

Thibodeaux says among the options are for the affected parishes to apply for federal assistance and continue the sheltering program which he says none have yet or impacted individuals can apply for a rapid house voucher which would move them into an apartment.

Cut  14 (09) “…in that.” 

The deadline for the Hurricanes Laura, Delta, and Zeta sheltering programs, Thibodeaux says is set to expire in August.

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.