The World Health Organization declare an end to the pandemic, but that doesn’t mean COVID is eradicated. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Dennis “Maliq” Barnes, a 16-year-old senior, who holds The Guinness Book of World Records for receiving $9 million in scholarship offers from 125 colleges, has decided to attend Cornell University in New York. Teiko Foxx has the story.

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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The World Health Organization says COVID-19 is no longer a global health emergency, which marks a historic end to the pandemic. But LSU Health New Orleans Infectious Disease specialist, Dr. Fred Lopez says this doesn’t mean the virus has been extinguished.

Cut 3 (11) “….years ago.”

According to the WHO, the pandemic claimed seven million lives across the globe. And in the US alone there are an average of 200 deaths daily from COVID-19. Lopez says individuals need to stay up to date on vaccinations and diagnostic testing should continue.

Cut 4 (07)  “…present itself.” 

Lopez says those who are 65 and older or immunocompromised should be diligent about their COVID vaccines.

Cut 5 (09) “…complications.”

Last month President Biden signed legislation to officially end the national coronavirus emergency on May 11th. You can expect to see changes in COVID surveillance and among federal insurance programs.

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New Iberia Police are investigating a shooting incident that left a 5-year-old injured at a Raceway on LA-14 Thursday morning. Sergeant Daesha Hughes says officers received a call of a 4-year-old shot in a vehicle.

Cut 6 (06)  “…the leg.” 

Investigators say the shooting happened at the gas station after the mother left her four kids in the car while she went inside. Hughes says one of the kids located the gun and shot the sibling in the leg.

Cut 7 (04)  “…under investigation.” 

Raceway employees helped care for the child until the police arrived. Hughes encourages everyone to never leave children unattended even if it’s a quick run into the store.

Cut 8 (12)  “…for sure.” 

The juvenile was transported to a local hospital with moderate injuries but is in stable condition.

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New Orleans high school senior Dennis “Maliq” Barnes, who set a record of receiving ten-million dollars in scholarship money, announced today he will attend Cornell University this fall.

Cut 9 (10) “….Cornell University.”

The 16-year-old scholar set the Guinness Book of World Records for the highest amount of scholarships offered in U.S. history. He already has a head start in his college career since he has dually enrolled in Southern University of New Orleans earning college credits while working towards his high school diploma. Barnes says his decision to select Cornell was easy.

Cut 10 (12) “…to Cornell.” 

Barnes plans to pursue a dual degree in computer science and criminal justice. He encourages teens to put their best foot forward.

Cut 11 (11)  “…come true.”

Barnes will graduate from the International High School of New Orleans on May 24.

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Two juveniles are dead and two others are injured from a shooting that took place around midnight in Bastrop. Morehouse Parish Sheriff Mike Tubbs says one of the injured victims showed up at a local hospital and told authorities about the shooting on Welch Avenue and Pruett Street

Cut 12 (10) “…also died” 

Tubbs says they believe there was only one gunman and some sort of a dispute between the individuals involved resulted in the shooting.

Cut 13 (07) “…the week.” 

Tubbs says unfortunately you are seeing young people trying to settle disputes with violence…

Cut 14 (09)  “…become younger and younger”

The world’s first vaccine that would lower the risk of adults 60 and older from getting RSV has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Teiko Foxx has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The full House is scheduled to debate the proposed $46-billion state budget bill today. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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A Bossier City Police officer continues to recover from a mass shooting at a gas station off of Interstate 20. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Food and Drug Administration approved the world’s first respiratory syncytial virus vaccine by pharmaceutical giant GSK. RSV causes lower respiratory illness and the vaccine would target adults who are 60 and older. LSU Health New Orleans Infectious Disease Expert Dr. Fred Lopez says having this before the next RSV season coming in late fall and winter is significant.

Cut 4 (12)  “…important advancement.”

For older adults with underlying medical conditions like asthma, emphysema, and heart failure, complications from RSV infection can potentially be life-threatening. RSV hospitalizations for the current season were around 51 per 100,000 people, according to the CDC. Lopez says the vaccine looks promising to lower the risk of symptomatic illness.

Cut 5 (12)   “…94 percent.”

Lopez says the CDC must still recommend the vaccine before it becomes available to the public.

Cut 6 (09)  “…approve it.”

RSV kills up to 10,000 people ages 65 or older and up to 300 children under 5 every year in the U.S. The CDC’s final recommendation on who will get the vaccine will come in June.

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The state House is scheduled to begin debate of House Bill 1, the proposed $45.7-billion state budget for the fiscal year that starts July 1^st. House Appropriations Committee Chairman Jerome Zeringue says it may not be everything Governor Edwards asked for, but the spending plan is a good one…:

Cut 7 (10) “…expenditure limit.”

The governor wanted teacher pay raises of $2000 to $3000 a year. Zeringue says the raises in HB 1 are less than that, because they chose instead to put more surplus dollars into lowering the state’s teacher retirement system debt; the so-called Unfunded Accrued Liability (UAL). He says this will enable school districts to give their own raises…:

Cut 8 (06) “…and institutions.”

Early childhood education will also have less dedicated funding than the governor hoped for. Zeringue says federal money for these programs is falling off and the state cannot afford to sustain funding at that level; not with another fiscal cliff coming in 2025…:

Cut 9 (14)  “…as they are.”

House floor debate on the budget bill, plus dozens of proposed member amendments should begin today at the Capitol.

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To address the critical need for registered nurses, UL Lafayette and Ochsner Lafayette General have formed a partnership for students to earn an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Interim Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Lisa Broussard, says it’s ideal for those who have a bachelor’s degree in any field and desire a career in nursing.

Cut 10 (08) “… in 15 months.” 

And not only is the degree accelerated, but Broussard says the hospital will also cover the cost of tuition and provide clinical sites for students.

Cut 11 (08)  “…upon graduation.”

Any general education courses will be paid for by the student, but any of the 17 required nursing credits will be paid for by the hospital.

Broussard says the nursing shortage is predicted to grow considerably and the partnership is ideal for those who want a career in nursing but both time and costs are obstacles to earning a degree.

Cut 12 (07)    “…to come back.” 

The program begins in May of 2024 and students will graduate in August of 2025. For more information visit LouisianaRadioNetwork.com.

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Bossier City authorities credit a hotel manger for helping them apprehend a man who was on a killing spree. B-C-P-D spokesperson Louis Johnson says 50-year-old Cortrell Burks fled to a nearby hotel after fatally shooting two people during an armed robbery Tuesday morning at a gas station off of I-20…

Cut 13 (12) “…further harm.” 

Authorities arrested Burks outside of the LeBossier Hotel and Event Center. He’s also wanted in the stabbing death of a 40-year-old woman in Birmingham.

Johnson says officers arrived in about 90 seconds after getting word of a shooting at the Valero gas station on Industrial Drive. He says a responding officer was shot four times.

Cut 14 (11)  “…keep him protected.”

The wounded officer has been identified as Kenny Gallon. He’s been on the force for seven years and is married with two children. Bossier City police chief Daniel Haugen says Officer Gallon is in good spirits. McWilliams says it appears Burks was traveling on I-20 and happened to stop in Bossier City…

Cut 15 (09)  “…into that.”

Johnson says the two people killed are a 36-year-old man, who was a clerk, and a 47-year-old, male who was an employee.

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LSU pitcher Paul Skenes will go for his ninth win of the season tomorrow when the Tigers visit Auburn to begin a three-game series. Former LSU baseball star and now analyst on the SEC Network, Todd Walker, says Skenes was a good pitcher at Air Force last season, now he’s one of the best in the country…

Cut  16 (15)  “…walk anybody”  (2x)

Skenes’ dominance is why LSU is a favorite to win the College World Series. Walker says the Tigers will need a couple of other pitchers to excel in the postseason for the Bayou Bengals to win a seventh national title in program history…

Cut 17 (11) “…a little bit.”

LSU has been the consensus number one ranked team in the country all season, but Walker says it’s baseball and the best team doesn’t always win a national championship…

Cut 18 (12) “..on there”

The man who fatally shot two people and wounded a Bossier City police officer during a shootout at a gas station off of I-20 is reportedly a suspect in a fatal stabbing that took place in Alabama. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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On a nine to five vote, the House Labor Committee rejects a proposal to raise the minimum wage above the current $7.25 an hour. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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The armed gunman who murdered two people and injured two more including a police officer at a Valero gas station in Bossier City is reportedly connected to a deadly stabbing and shooting in Alabama.  Spokesperson Louis Johnson says he is familiar with the reports but their agency has not released any information.

Cut 3 (08) “….this moment.”

Booking records show 50-year-old Cortrell Burks is also a fugitive from Birmingham, Alabama in Jefferson County where authorities say Burks is suspected of stabbing a woman to death and shooting four other people before the tragic incident in Bossier City. Bossier City Police have not released the names of the suspect or victims. Johnson says the initial call came in as an armed robbery and they received a “shots fired” call.

Cut 4 (07)  “…a clerk.” 

The wounded officer who was shot multiple times is listed in stable condition and the fourth victim is in critical condition.

Cut 5 (12) “…that situation.”

A press conference releasing more details is scheduled for today.

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May is Mental Health Awareness Month and the Louisiana Department of Health is promoting the use of 988, a 24/7 suicide and crisis call line. Karen Stubbs, Assistant Secretary in the Office of Behavioral Health, says 988 launched in July and they want more people to know help is available and it’s only three digits away.

Cut 6 (10)  “…anniversary.” 

Stubbs says they’ve also launched a dashboard to provide transparency of 988 to include call volume, demographics, and what people are using the line for and it will be updated monthly.

Cut 7 (11)  “…conversation again.” 

In addition to receiving council by calling 988, Stubbs says you can also receive assistance via text and chat. You can find the dashboard and more information at ldh.la.gov/crisis

Cut 8 (10)  “…their families.” 

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A bill that would raise the statewide minimum wage to $10 an hour failed in House Labor Committee on a 9-5 vote. The bill’s author, Alexandria Representative Ed Larvadain (Larva-dane), says citizens making between $7.25 an hour and ten-bucks an hour are struggling to survive and lawmakers must step up.

Cut 9 (09) “….is unacceptable.”

NFIB State Director Dawn McVea says Louisiana small businesses oppose this legislation. 

Cut 10 (13) “…of employees” 

President of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry Jim Patterson says there are very few non-government workers making less than 10-dollars an hour…

Cut 11 (12)  “…not necessary”

The last federal wage increase was in 2009. Thirty out of fifty states has a minimum wage greater than the federal minimum wage. Arkansas raised its minimum wage to eleven dollars an hour this year. Larvadain says the lack of a higher minimum wage is contributing to the state’s outmigration problem.

Cut 12 (06) “…other locations.” 

The minimum wage will continue at 7.25 an hour. During Governor John Bel Edwards two terms in office he’s pushed the Louisiana Legislature to raise the minimum wage, but in his seven-plus years in office, the proposal has been rejected by the Republican controlled Legislature.

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The House Education Committee approves legislation requiring high school students to take a financial literacy class to graduate. Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley says he hears from parents who say public school students should be educated on how to handle their finances…

Cut 13 (12) “…going to make.” 

Brumley says the course will provide students with life skills to understand economics…

Cut 14 (09)  “…day-to-day basis”

Brumley says 11th and 12th graders would take the financial literacy course.

Cut 15 (10) “…some replacement”

The bill heads to the House floor for more discussion.

Third-grade students in Louisiana may be required to take literacy screenings in order to be promoted to the fourth grade if the bill is passed on the House Floor.

Cut 1 (33)  “I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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A bill to give cops the right to tell you “stay back” while they do their jobs advances out of a House Committee. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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A bill to prohibit transgender procedures on minors advances from the House Health and Welfare Committee. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A proposed bill that prohibits the promotion of third-graders who can not read proficiently was approved by House Education with a 7 – 3 vote. Sponsor of the bill – Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson says Louisiana is among the top ten states with the lowest literacy performance.

Cut 4 (11)  “…at it.”

Statewide more than 15,000 third graders failed below reading on grade level based on a literacy screener administered last year. 75% of fourth graders in Louisiana can not read based on national test results. Nelson birthed the bill when he realized his child had a reading impediment. Addressing the committee, Nelson’s wife, Ashley says imaging this bill in any other concept would be:…

Cut 5 (11)   “…the water.”

Nelson says his bill mirrors a Mississippi legislation that was passed in 2013. If the screening determines the child has a reading deficiency, the student would have three attempts to determine promotion to fourth grade. Shreveport Representative Tammy Phelps expressed concern over the present law and the proposed bill.

Cut 6 (12)  “…we have.”

The bill heads to the House floor.

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The House Criminal Justice Committee advances a bill that would give police the right to say “stay back” while they do their job and establish a 25-foot safe zone between them. Pineville Rep. Mike Johnson is the bill sponsor. He tells committee members his bill is a safety measure and allows cops to take preventive steps for his or her own safety and the safety of an approaching citizen…:

Cut 7 (12) “…of a misdemeanor.”

Johnson says people have been hurt for walking up on a cop doing his job, who didn’t know that person’s intentions and cops have been hurt and even killed in similar encounters. Opponents of the bill worried it will prevent people from being able to video police. Citizen and attorney Allison McCrery says the bill’s 25-foot buffer zone means witnesses will have limited sight, and oversight, of police actions…:

Cut 8 (05) “…that far away.”

Johnson says the bill would apply only IF the officer asked or instructed you to stay back, and would not totally prevent approaching an officer – say to ask for help. Johnson says the bill’s language does not mention videotaping officers the 25-foot buffer zone is still plenty close for cell phone video…:

Cut 9 (07)  “…not accurate.”

Violators could get fines and possible jail time. By a vote of 8-to-1, the bill moves to the House floor for debate.

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Legislation to prohibit transgender procedures on minors advances from the House Health and Welfare Committee. Pollock Representative Gabe Firment’s bill is entitled the Save Adolescents from Experimentation Act. The Republican says several European nations that pioneered gender reassignment surgery have reversed course.

Cut 10 (09) “… and surgeries.” 

New Orleans Pediatric Psychologist Clifton Mixon testified before committee members in opposition to the bill. He says healthcare professionals try every alternative possible before performing such procedures and prohibiting them will have dire consequences.

Cut 11 (10)  “…your hands.”

Firment says surrounding states and other conservative southern states have passed similar laws and Louisiana should also.

Cut 12 (10)    “…our kids.” 

Proponents of the bill say physicians are grooming children to have the costly procedures merely for greed and social media is what’s causing children to be trans. Olivia Gowan, a transgender woman, refuted the argument and told committee members she was a transgender child in the 90s long before social media.

Cut 13 (11) “…time’s up.” 

Committee Chair Larry Bagley, who lost his wife to suicide, quickly dismissed Gowan. The bill passed in committee on a 14 to 3 vote and advances to the full House.

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Legislation to make it legal to bury your pet’s cremated remains in the owner’s coffin passes in the House. After receiving pushback from the Cemetery Association last year, Minden Rep Wayne McMahen pulled the bill. But this year the former veterinarian says they are backing the legislation.

Cut 14 (09)  “…associations.”

The bill also makes it legal to have pet cremated remains declared as personal property.

Amite Representative Robby Carter questioned McMahen about the size of one’s pet.

Cut 15 (13)  “…about a pound.”

House Bill 248 passed in the House 98-0 and heads to a Senate committee.

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LSU fans no longer have to worry about quarterback Garrett Nussmeier transferring. The window to enter the transfer portal for the spring closed on Sunday and Nussmeier remains on LSU’s roster. Shea Dixon with on-three-dot-com says LSU is set at quarterback as Jaiden Daniels will start this season and Nussmeier could be your starter in 2024 and 2025…

Cut  16 (16)  “…right now” 

A lot of college football players are jumping into the transfer portal when they don’t get immediate playing time, but Dixon says Nussmeier has been committed to LSU…

Cut 17 (15) “…never wavered.”

The window has closed for players to enter the transfer portal, but players in the portal can still sign at another school. U-L Lafayette star cornerback Trey Amos got in the portal over the weekend and Dixon says LSU is very interested…

Cut 18 (18) “…with the Gators”

A police officer was shot when gunfire erupted this morning at a gas station in Bossier City. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (28)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The House Governmental Affairs Committee approves legislation that would raise the annual pay for state lawmakers to 40-thousand dollars. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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A 16-year-old was killed Monday evening in Natchitoches and two other teens were injured. Corporal John Greely with Natchitoches Police says around 8:16 they received several calls of gunshots in the area of Stella and Northern Streets.

Cut 3 (07) “….gunshot victim.”

The 16-year-old victim, who was the driver of the vehicle, had multiple gunshot wounds.

Greely says investigators also learned there were two other juveniles in the vehicle that crashed on Stella Street.

Cut 4 (07)  “…happened.” 

One of the teens was transported to a Shreveport hospital with non-life-threatening injuries and the other teen has been released from the hospital. Police are asking anyone with information to call Crimestoppers.

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The fatal shooting of a man in downtown Alexandria Sunday night sparks concern about public safety before its annual AlexRiverFete event. Mayor Jacques Roy says this was an isolated incident that started at a private party.

Cut 5 (12) “…a death.”

Roy posted a video to Facebook Monday night sharing details of the incident and reminding citizens downtown remains one of the safest parts of the city. The shooting occurred near the intersection of Third Street and Johnston Street – adjacent to the Mini Park just a block away from City Hall.

He says youth crime and illegal guns are out of control around the nation and despite the recent event, security will be beefed up in Downtown Alexandria for the AlexRiverFete.

Cut 6 (13)  “…feel safety.” 

Alexandria Police Chief Chad Gremillion echoed Roy on the festival security.

Cut 7 (12)  “…presence in place.” 

AlexRiverFete is Alexandria’s largest downtown event and is this weekend. No details were released on the victim’s identity or if any arrests were made.

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The House Governmental Affairs Committee approves a bill that would raise the annual salary for state lawmakers from 16,800 to about 40-thousand dollars. Gretna Representative Joe Marino says many legislators are leaving because the time commitment does not match the pay…

Cut 8 (08)  “…than this” 

The bill passed on an eight to four vote and it needs review from House Appropriations, since it’s an added cost for the state.

Lawmakers have not received a boost in annual pay since 1980. In 2008, then Governor Bobby Jindal vetoed a legislative pay raise bill because of public pressure.  Marrero Representative Rodney Lyons says he surveyed his constituents and they support a higher salary for legislators…

Cut 9 (10) “….and vary.”

Pineville Representative Mike Johnson voted against the legislation as he says service is about sacrifice…

Cut 10 (14) “…we run” 

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An arrest is imminent for two suspects who ran over a 9-year-old girl while fleeing an attempted carjacking at Love’s Truck Stop Monday evening. Minden Police Chief Jared McIver says when the father of the child went inside with his youngest, his teenage daughters were in the car when the suspects tried to take the vehicle. The father ran out to stop it and his 9-year-old daughter followed.

Cut 11 (07)  “…take out.”

McIver says they are looking for two black males in a white stolen U-Haul pick-up truck, with the U-Haul stickers removed.

In the chaotic scene, McIver says fortunately a physician was able to assist the child at the scene after she was run over by the pick-up truck.

Cut 12 (08) “…airlifted.” 

The child was taken to LSU Ochsner in Shreveport with several broken bones but is expected to recover.

McIver says video footage from the truck stop is extremely difficult to watch.

Cut 13 (10) “…deserve.” 

The suspects are also believed to be involved in an armed robbery with the same stolen vehicle.

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State Troopers have arrested a Church Point man involved in the fatal hit-and-run death of a bicyclist who was found on Highway 93 in Sunset on Sunday. 32-year-old Clay Richard was arrested last night and charged in the death of 59-year-old Randy Thibodeaux. State Trooper Thomas Gossen says the suspect was arrested a short distance from the scene of the accident.

Cut 14 (07)  “…under suspension”

Thibodeaux was riding his bicycle north of 356 near Wild Rose Road when he was struck by a vehicle. He was found in a ditch by a family member who last reported seeing Thibodeaux on Friday. Gossen says the arrest was the result of a tip from a concerned citizen.

Cut 15 (08) “…solve these cases.”

Impairment is unknown but a standard toxicology sample was submitted. The crash remains under investigation.

Owners of Mandina’s Restaurant in New Orleans made the difficult decision to reopen today three days after one of their employees was gunned down while serving tables outside the restaurant Friday evening. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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New Orleans, Shreveport, and Baton Rouge rank 8^th, 9^th, and 10^th in MoneyGeek’s list of America’s Most Dangerous Cities. Brooke Thorington.

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

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Mandina’s Restaurant in New Orleans re-opened today as New Orleans Police Officers continue to search for gunmen involved in the murder of one of their employees Friday night. Twenty-three-year-old Hilbert Walker III was killed outside the popular eatery located on Canal Street. NOPD Superintendent Michelle Woodfork says officers were dispatched to Mandina’s after gunfire erupted.

Cut 3 (05) “….the scene.”

The incident occurred on the opening day of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, the city’s biggest music festival. Two individuals pulled up to the restaurant in a vehicle and shot Walker while he was serving customers dining outside. Woodfork says NOPD wants to let the public know this was an isolated incident.

Cut 4 (10)  “…the festival.” 

A female tourist from Chicago was inside the restaurant when she was hit by a stray bullet. An armed security guard on site returned fire during the incident.

Cut 5 (04) “…active investigation.”

The Louisiana Restaurant Association is assisting Mandina’s staff by connecting them with trauma counseling services.

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The state’s three most populated cities are among MoneyGeek’s Top Ten List of the Most Dangerous Cities in the Country. 2021 FBI data was used for the rankings and LSU Health New Orleans Criminologist Dr. Peter Scharf says if violent crime isn’t addressed it will only create more problems for Louisiana.

Cut 6 (05)  “…lost cities.” 

New Orleans ranked 8^th in the study, followed by Shreveport and Baton Rouge.

Scharf says the state’s poverty rate is a major contributing factor and unfortunately selling drugs is one of the easiest ways to supplement one’s income. Scharf says you have to look at the political response to crime from both the state and local governments.

Cut 7 (11)  “…level of crime.” 

It’s an election year, and Scharf says instead of candidates talking about crime we need to know exactly what they’ll do to address it. He cautions if the plan is to increase arrests to build the prison population because in the past Louisiana topped the list of the most arrests, incarcerations, and murders.

Cut 8 (11)  “…been here.” 

St. Louis topped the list of the most dangerous cities, followed by Mobile, Birmingham, and Baltimore. Memphis ranked 5th; Memphis, Detroit, and Cleveland rounded off the top 10.

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Lawmen in St. Landry Parish seek the person who hit and killed a bicyclist, then drove away. State Police Troop I spokesman Thomas Gossen says it appears to have happened Friday evening along state Highway 93, near Sunset…:

Cut 9 (11) “….in the ditch.”

Gossen says 59-year-old Randy Thibodeaux was last seen Friday by family members. Authorities were notified, after he was located alongside the highway Sunday by a family member who’d been searching for him…:

Cut 10 (12) “…let us know.” 

Trooper Gossen says, based on evidence collected at the scene, they are seeking a metallic-colored or gray Honda Accord 2-door, likely model year 2013-15…:

Cut 11 (12)  “…law enforcement agency.”

Again, Troop I’s phone number for tips: 337-262-5880

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The House Appropriations Committee is taking a different approach to funding proposed teacher pay raises. Chairman Jerome Zeringue says instead of providing more money in the state budget for teacher salaries, the panel proposes using state funds to pay down debt in the teacher retirement system, freeing up funds for local school systems to give teachers a raise

Cut 12 (04) “…those funds.” 

The House Appropriations Committee sent a proposed budget to the House floor that does NOT contain 197-million dollars in K-through-12 public school teacher pay raises. It also has less dollars for higher education and early childhood education that the governor proposed. While speaking to the Baton Rouge Press Club, Governor Edwards got word of what House Republicans are proposing…

Cut 13 (08) “…in the process.” 

Speaking of funding, Governor Edwards was asked about LSU women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey’s recent comments that it’s time to build a new basketball arena or dramatically renovate Pete Maravich Assembly Center. Edwards says there are other buildings on LSU’s campus that need replacement too…

Cut 14 (12)  “…new library”

There have been numerous reports on the poor condition of LSU’s main library.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has named Rachel Zechenelly as its first female top game warden in the agency’s history. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Once again this year, a bill to ban using a hand-held cell phone while driving goes before state lawmakers today. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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A bill to extend the state’s film tax credit for another 10 years from the current expiration of July 2025 goes before the full House today. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has appointed its first female as head of its Enforcement Division in the agency’s 79-year history. Rachel Zechenelly will oversee 257 game agents and support staff. Zechenelly says she’s ready to lead as the new Chief of Enforcement.

Cut 4 (09)  “…and women.”

Zechenelly has worked with the agency for over two decades and has received several awards including the LDWF Meritorious Award for Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, Harvey, Irma, and Ida, the 2016 Flood, and BP Oil Spill. The Pearl River native says the agency’s main responsibility is protecting commercial fisheries, hunting, and fishing, however…

Cut 5 (11)   “…and rescue.”

Zechenelly graduated from LDWF Cadet Academy in 1999, where she served as a field agent in the southeast region before being promoted to Headquarter staff in 2005. She was also named the LDWF Agent of the Year for Headquarters Staff in 2008. She believes the leadership from her mentor, Col. Hebert has prepared her for the future.

Cut 6 (09)  “…that road.”

Zechenelly will succeed Col. Chad Hebert, who was promoted to Colonel in 2020 but has decided to retire.

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Once again this year, a bill to ban using a hand-held cellphone while driving is scheduled for review before the House Transportation Committee. The measure comes from St. Martin Parish representative Mike Huval. Louisiana AAA’s Don Redman says his organization supports Huval’s bill, as they have in the past…:

Cut 7 (11) “…behind the wheel.”

Similar bills have been filed for many years, by Huval and other lawmakers before him, but the bill has never made it to final passage. Redman says Huval’s bill would only restrict HOW you use your phone while driving…:

Cut 8 (08) “…phone in-system.”

Huval’s HB 580 would mandate one could only use a cell phone hands-free while behind the wheel. A first offense would mean a fine of $50 to $100, but subsequent offenses could mean fines up to $300 with community service and possible license revocation. Redman says AAA is behind the bill, and passing it could even mean a break on your auto insurance, because we have so many distracted driving crashes…:

Cut 9 (11)  “…to 6 and a half.”

Huval’s bill is scheduled today in House Transportation.

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House Bill 562 to extend tax credits for the film industry in Louisiana will be heard in the lower chamber today. The bill would extend the current tax credits set to expire in July 2025 to July 2035. Jason Waggenspack with Louisiana Film and Entertainment Association says passage is vital to stabilizing the industry long-term.

Cut 10 (10) “…year over year.” 

A Louisiana Economic Development study estimates a billion dollars spent by the industry in the state last year and of that $350 million was on the payroll of residents. Waggenspack says the industry also supports 10,000 jobs.

Cut 11 (08)  “…to the state.”

The state film tax incentive started in 2002 and Waggenspack says Louisiana is among the first states to have the initiative. He says other states have followed Louisiana’s lead and now more than 38 states have a film tax program, and more are in the works.  According to LED, there is a $6.00 Return on Investment for every dollar the state puts into the industry. Waggenspack says with more than a third of that billion is going directly to Louisiana payroll…

Cut 12 (06)    “…unfathomable.” 

Speaker of the House Clay Schexnayder’s legislation also calls for productions who receive incentives to have a Louisiana logo promoting the state in the end credits.

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Seven of the major candidates for governor who attended the Public Affairs Research Council’s annual meeting were asked about their top priorities for the state. PAR President Seven Procopio says they were also asked if they would continue Medicaid expansion in Louisiana.

Cut 13 (05) “…said maybe.” 

During rapid-fire questioning of the candidates, Procopio says they ran out of time to ask Attorney General Jeff Landry about Medicaid, but they caught up with him after the meeting.

Cut 14 (07)  “…undo it.”

Governor John Bel Edwards also attended the conference and Procopio says Edwards refers to Medicaid expansion as one of his biggest achievements.

Cut 15 (07)  “…their campaign.”

Procopio says the candidates all agree that crime, the economy, and education are topics that need attention in Louisiana.

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The Saints selected seven players in the three-day NFL draft, including a quarterback. Six-foot Jake Haener from Fresno State, was a three-year starter for the Bulldogs and last season threw for nearly 29-hundred yards, 20 touchdowns, and three interceptions. Coach Dennis Allen likes what he sees from Haener

Cut  16 (11)  “…timing and accuracy” 

The Saints used their last pick to pick wide receiver A-T Perry from Wake Forest. He’s six-foot-three, 195 pounds and had 28 touchdowns during his career with the Demon Deacons. Allen calls Perry an intriguing prospect…

Cut 17 (25) “…football players”

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The top ranked LSU baseball team swept its second straight SEC weekend as they took three from Alabama this past weekend. The Tigers scored 33 runs against Crimson Tide pitching and Coach Jay Johnson liked the approach he saw at the plate…

Cut 18 (10) “..was awesome”

LSU completed a sweep of Bama with a 13-11 win yesterday. Number nine hitter Alex Milazzo drove in the go-ahead run with an RBI single in the seventh. Milazzo learned after the game he had the trust of Johnson to get the job done…

Cut 19 (17) “      play the game“

LSU is now 35-8 overall, 15-5 in the SEC, half a game back of Vanderbilt for the best conference. Milazzo is enjoying his fourth season in Purple and Gold…

Cut 20 (13)  “… right now”  

Lizzo, Ed Sheeran, The Steve Miller, and Kane Brown are some of this year’s headliners at the 38^th Annual New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival that kicks off today April 28^th through May 7th. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Almost 40 years after a skull fragment was found in the Lake Pontchartrain area, testing shows it’s 3,500 years old. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A Senate bill aimed at keeping adult reading materials in public libraries away from impressionable young eyes passes its first legislative hurdle. More from Brooke Thorington…:

Cut 3 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival returns to the New Orleans Fairgrounds this weekend – April 28^th through May 7^th  – with a jam-packed two-weekend full of culture, crafts, and music. Festival Producer, Quint Davis says this is the second post-COVID event and people are excited.

Cut 4 (09)  “…that one.”

The Festival is one of the city’s biggest festivals celebrating its rich culture and heritage. It will also showcase diverse works of art and contemporary crafts. There will be 16 musical stages featuring over 580 bands covering everything from jazz blues and gospel to Cajun, zydeco, hip-hop, funk, and more from national and international acts.

Cut 5 (09)   “…for everybody.”

In 2019 and 2022, organizers reported more than 475,000 people attended the two-weekend event. There will also be a big transition to a cashless-only festival this year. All vendors will not accept cash payments but any type of money cards will be accepted. There will also be Cash Exchange booths where attendees can use cash to get a prepaid card for no fee and the cards can be used anywhere outside the festival.

Cut 6 (07)  “…whose playing.”

This year’s headliners include Lizzo, Ed Sheeran, The Steve Miller Band, HER, Dead & Company, Wu-Tang Clan, and Kane Brown, and many more. Visit nojazzfest.com for the full lineup.

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A skull fragment discovered almost 40 years ago near Lake Pontchartrain is found to be 35-hundred years old.  In 2009 because of its degraded condition DNA testing could only tell them it was female. In January, Cold Case Investigator Chris Knoblauch with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, says Carbon-14 testing was performed.

Cut 7 (09) “… it was.”

Knoblauch says it’s hard to fathom who this woman, was in back in 1634 to 1504 B.C. and how a fragment of her skull ended up in what’s now St Tammany Parish. She’s estimated to be between 25 to 35 years, and testing even revealed her diet.

Cut 8 (11) “…as well.”

Geographically, Knoblauch says back then the area was much different from what it is now. He says the Mississippi River is believed to be elsewhere and geographic landmarks that we know now didn’t necessarily exist then.

Cut 9 (10)  “…kind of right in.”

The LSU FACES lab has current possession of the fragment.

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At the Capitol, the Senate Education Committee advances a bill to keep adult reading material in public libraries out of the hands of children. Turkey Creek Republican Senator Heather Cloud says this is a matter of importance to a great many parents and grandparents across Louisiana…:

Cut 10 (11) “…sexually explicit material.” 

Cloud’s bill would set up a tiered library card system, wherein parents could select a lending level appropriate for their kid. Amendments added to the measure seek to clear up the definition of what constitutes “sexually explicit,” and establish a 60-day warning period for libraries to address complaints. Cloud says libraries would not have to go over every book, looking for objectionable content…:

Cut 11 (06)  “…by a patron.”

Cloud’s bill would set up a two-step process for reviewing library books that have received complaints. Under the bill, libraries in violation could face loss of funding.. Cloud says drafting the bill was a delicate process…:

Cut 12 (12)    “…for this content.” 

After an hour of discussion and before the opposition could speak, Senator Bodi White called the question for an immediate vote. With no opposition from members, it moves to the Senate floor.

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Legislation providing $8.5 million in funding for bulletproof vests for peace officers across Louisiana was passed by a full House with a 98-0 vote. Baton Rouge Representative Rick Edmonds says it’s about safety and protection.

Cut 13 (13) “…covers them.” 

House Bill 442, authored by Baton Rouge Representative Rick Edmonds, would establish funds to provide critical resources to those who protect and serve our communities. Edmonds says the idea came from the killing of three Baton Rouge officers in 2016.

Cut 14 (13)  “…of vest.”

Edmonds says the cost per vest is around $2,500 and guidelines would be monitored by the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement.

Cut 15 (08)  “…be proper.”

The law requires the state treasurer to deposit into the fund at the beginning of each year starting July 1.

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LSU begins a three-game series tonight against the Alabama Crimson Tide. The Tigers are 12 and 5 in the SEC and in first place, while is in third place with a 9-and-9 record. Coach Jay Johnson points out that Bama has won six of its last seven

Cut  16 (20)  “… a lot of fun.” 

Alabama enters the game with a 9-9 SEC record, 30-12 overall. The Tigers are 12-5 and in first place in the SEC West and they are 32-8 overall. LSU leads the SEC in hitting and they’ve scored a league-high 397 runs. Johnson on their approach on offense…

Cut 17 (20) “…hurting you.” 

Two of LSU’s best hitters, Tommy White and Tre Morgan, didn’t play in Tuesday’s loss to Nicholls because of nagging injuries. Johnson says the trainer has been getting them ready for this weekend….

Cut 18 (17) “..going to play.”

The death of a six-year-old girl found in a bucket has shocked the small town of Harahan. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Lady Tigers basketball coach Kim Mulkey says it’s time for an improved basketball arena on LSU’s campus. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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43-year-old Hannah Landon of Harahan has been arrested and charged in the death of her boyfriend’s six-year-old daughter. The father reported Bella Fontenelle missing Wednesday morning and she later was found inside a 10-gallon bucket on her mother’s lawn. Jefferson Parish Sheriff Joe Lopinto says Tuesday evening video footage from the neighborhood led them to arrest Landon.

Cut 3 (06) “….that wagon.”

Landon was located at the hospital Wednesday afternoon and is charged with first-degree murder and obstruction of justice.

Harahan Police Chief Ed LePre says the small town is shocked and saddened by the news.

Cut 4 (10)  “…for the family.” 

Lopinto says the child’s father and mother are not considered suspects in the case and they believe the child was killed Tuesday night at the father’s home and then taken to the mother’s home within walking distance by Landon. Jefferson Parish Coroner Dr. Jerry Cvitanovich says the manner of death is homicide.

Cut 5 (07) “…fluid investigation.”

Lopinto says the suspect lives with the victim’s father and the child’s mother lives in the same neighborhood one street over.

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Women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey brought a national championship to LSU, now she wants a new or remodeled basketball arena.  Mulkey made her demand during a speech in front of the Baton Rouge Rotary Club…

Cut 6 (12)  “…dangerous in there” 

The Pete Maravich Assembly Center is actually 51 years old and 2009 was the last time major work was done to the facility. The PMAC lacks revenue generating suites and Mulkey says going up and down the stairs is dangerous.

After winning the school’s first national championship in basketball, Mulkey told WBRZ-TV in Baton Rouge its time to start talking about a new arena

Cut 7 (12)  “…it’s time” 

Mulkey says she doesn’t have a preference on whether a new arena is needed or should the school complety renovate the PMAC. The 60-year-old coach told WBRZ-TV she’ll leave that decision up to her administration…

Cut 8 (10)  “…paint on it.” 

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Louisiana Entergy customers will receive refunds in the coming months. It’s part of a 36-million dollar settlement the Public Service Commission finalized with Entergy. Commissioner Davante Lewis says the PSC sued Entergy for overcharging rate payers to cover the expenses of operating the Grand Gulf nuclear plant in Port Gibson, Mississippi.

Cut 9 (08) “….not working.”

Commissioner Mike Francis says the settlement is proof that the PSC has the best interest of utility customers…

Cut 10 (07) “…accountable.” 

Francis says it still has to be determined how much money customers will get back.

Cut 11 (09)  “…electricity rates.”

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Legislation requiring air monitoring systems in certain permitted facilities advanced from the Senate Environmental Committee. Author of the bill – Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields says companies would have to maintain monitoring data records.

Cut 12 (12) “…be warned.” 

Senate Bill 35 would also require all facilities in Louisiana that produce toxic chemicals to alert communities nearby when air quality reaches dangerous levels. The measure was passed in a 4-1 vote. Gonzales Senator Eddie Lambert was the only lawmaker to oppose the bill.

A proponent of the bill, Retired Army Lieutenant General Russell Honore says a recent chlorine leak near Iberville Parish sent residents to the hospital.

Cut 13 (11) “…the people.” 

Many industrial plants have similar systems in place but don’t alert communities nearby when a leak occurs.

Cut 14 (11)  “…with fentanyl.”

The cost related to installing and maintaining is $18,000 and each plant would incur the expense. Fields bill failed four times previously.

A bill to keep auto insurance rates from using gender as a factor when determining premiums narrowly passes in committee and is heading to the Senate. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The top ranked LSU baseball went down in defeat last night as the Nicholls Colonels pulled off a dramatic upset victory over the Tigers. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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More than 150 new jobs are coming to Shreveport as Prolec GE will invest 28-million dollars to expand its Caddo Parish facility to manufacture electrical transformers used in wind farms, solar parks and renewable energy applications. Prolec GE Business Unit Director Sergio Fernandez says the additional jobs will add to the 282 they currently have

Cut 3 (06) “….very excited”

The company plans to hire machine operators, maintenance personnel, supervisors and engineers. Fernandez says the additional production capacity will help ease transformer supply chain concerns…

Cut 4 (03)  “…is booming” 

Fernandez says construction on the new line will begin in June and is expected to reach full production capacity in June 2024.

Cut 5 (13) “…June 2024.”

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An ATV crash near Slidell last night killed a 14-year-old girl and injured another 14-year-old girl. St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s office spokesperson Suzanne Carboni says this is any parent’s worst nightmare…

Cut 6 (10)  “…a tree” 

Both girls were ejected from the ATV. Carboni says neither girl was wearing a helmet, which is essential for minors…

Cut 7 (05)  “…very dangerous” 

Both females were transported to separate area hospitals. Unfortunately, 14-year-old Samia Rogers of Slidell succumbed to her injuries. Preliminary autopsy findings were consistent with blunt force trauma.

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Rapides Parish Sheriff Deputies have arrested two men in the death of an Alexandria man found in a ditch on LA Highway 1 North last week. 42-year-old Rochaune Prenell of Alexandria was found dead with multiple gunshot wounds by a mowing crew. Spokesperson Tommy Carnline says authorities were able to close in on two individuals.

Cut 8 (09)  “…was identified.” 

Authorities arrested 32-year-old Donald Ray Sias, Jr. and O-tha Lee Tatum, Sr. both of Alexandria. Sias was in jail for unrelated charges and rearrested for carjacking, second-degree murder, criminal conspiracy, and obstruction of justice. Tatum was also arrested for obstruction of justice and criminal conspiracy.

Cut 9 (05) “….degree murder.”

The investigation is still ongoing.

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Legislation to prohibit insurance carriers from using gender as a factor when setting auto insurance rates advances from Senate Insurance. Bill author Alexandria Senator Jay Luneau says women are often charged a higher premium than men even if they have an identical driving record.

Cut 10 (12) “…charged more.” 

The only female on the committee Monroe Senator Katrina Jackson says it’s a very simple gender shouldn’t be used to determine whether or not she’s an at-risk driver, especially when insurance companies have access to one’s driving record.

Cut 11 (10)  “…down to.”

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says insurance carriers are not discriminating against females. He says companies refer to it as predictive modeling that differentiates between young women and men, and older women and men.

Cut 12 (12) “…of Louisiana.” 

Chair of the Insurance Committee, Senator Kirk Talbot opposes the legislation for fear that it would cause insurance rates for male drivers to increase.

Cut 13 (06) “…young women.” 

The legislation passed narrowly on a five to four vote and moves to the Senate floor.

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Lawmakers are hoping to address the ever-growing problem of drug overdose deaths. Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt’s bill goes after the source. Senate Bill 49 in essence doubles the current penalties for those who manufacture fentanyl in clandestine labs.

Cut 14 (11)  “…with fentanyl.”

A first offense would carry a 10-to-40-year prison sentence, ten years without parole, and up to a $50,000 fine.

The Republican Senator says the bill has the support of sheriffs, district attorneys, and coroners in Louisiana.

Cut 15 (05) “…neighborhoods.”

The bill passed in the Senate 33 to 2 and will be heard next in a House committee.