The owner of Fat Daddy’s Crawfish in Shreveport was killed in what authorities are calling a home invasion at his residence in Natchitoches Parish. Teiko Foxx has more

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Pineville, Louisiana is where you’ll find the only dental robot in the state. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Detectives are investigating a home invasion that killed a local business owner Tuesday night. 71-year-old, Mark Hailey, owner of Fat Daddy’s Crawfish in Shreveport was found unresponsive in his home on Jim Bell Road north of Campti. Captain Tony Moran says Hailey’s body was initially discovered by a relative who went to do a wellness check.

Cut 3 (09) “…the residence.” 

Natchitoches Parish Coroner’s Office preliminary autopsy determined Hailey’s cause of death as apparent blunt and sharp force trauma. On Wednesday morning, Moran says they received a lead in the case.

Cut 4 (08)  “…near Natchitoches.” 

Hailey’s 2015 Ford F-350 truck was found at the location. Moran says detectives are working to identify the person or persons responsible for this senseless act of violence.

Cut 5 (08) “…three zero.”

Anonymous tips can be reported by calling Natchitoches Crime Stoppers at (318) 238-2388.

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Crude oil dropped below $70 a barrel in trading Wednesday, for the first time in more than a year. So, what does that mean for consumers at the pump? Triple A analyst Don Redman says a drop in prices goes against what we typically see in the Spring when fuel costs increase due to demand and the transition to summer-grade gasoline.

Cut 6 (09)  “…fall accordingly.” 

Redman believes the drop in crude oil prices is reflective of the markets after the collapse of a couple of banks. And whether that scenario changes in terms of the outlook for the markets, he says it suddenly could reverse and prompt demand for crude oil, and the ongoing invasion of Ukraine adds uncertainty.

Cut 7 (10)  “…on politics.” 

Crude oil prices account for 50 to 60 percent of the price of gasoline, and even with the current drop in barrel prices, Redman says he’s still advising Triple-A members to continue to budget for gas prices around the $3.00 mark. As for the typical price increase due to demand in the spring, we’re not having a typical spring.

Cut 8 (11)  “…uptick in demand.” 

The average price for a gallon of regular gas in Louisiana today is $3.09

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Most of the northern half of the state is under a slight risk for severe weather this afternoon and tonight as a result of strong cold front that will kick up spring storms. L-R-N Meteorologist John Wetherbee says one and a a half to two inches of rain could fall, there’s also the possibility of tornadoes and hail is a concern…

Cut 9 (07) “…through the state.”

A wind advisory is in effect for southwest and central Louisiana today. Wetherbee says tomorrow the heavy rain and severe weather event shifts to southeast Louisiana….

Cut 10 (09) “…Friday evening” 

Wetherbee says the rain will be out of the state for St. Patrick’s day on Saturday, but you’ll need a jacket…

Cut 11 (06)  “…festivities”

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If you were told one of only 150 dental robots in the world was in Louisiana, the city of Pineville most likely wouldn’t be your first guess. Dr. Jonas Gauthier of Today’s Dental says since January they’ve performed dozens of dental implant surgeries with the Yomi Robotic Dental System and it drastically reduces recovery time.

Cut 12 (12) “…for the patients”. 

In addition to reducing recovery time, Gauthier says the robot helps dentists avoid nerves, sinuses, and blood vessels during the placement of dental implants.

Cut 13 (09) “…some challenges.”

And with the cutting-edge technology available in central Louisiana, you might think you’d have to pay more…

Cut 14 (11)  “…Yomi robot.”

Gauthier says robotic surgery started in orthopedics and in 2017 the first dentistry robot received FDA approval.

After years of testing, tropical storm predictions will have a different spin from weather experts. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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A recent governor’s poll has Jeff Landry and Shawn Wilson running neck and neck. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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National Hurricane Center officials are extending forecasts for the upcoming hurricane season – instead of the traditional five-day forecast, they will give a seven-day forecast. The recent modifications come after years of testing long-range predictions. State Climatologist Barry Keim says it’s a great step forward for the Emergency Management Community.

Cut 3 (07) “…their region.” 

The 2022 hurricane season for Louisiana on average was a bit quieter, even though it produced 14 named storms. Keim says hurricane season officially begins June 1st and this extension will be extremely beneficial.

Cut 4 (10)  “…be headed” 

Forecasters have become more confident in the accuracy of extended weather predictions. Keim says that even though there has been a demand for longer-range forecasts – they will not be error-free.

Cut 5 (09) “…these hurricanes.”

The changes will begin on May 15.

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Amtrak and the Southern Rail Commission are seeking federal funding to study the feasibility of a new passenger rail service across North Louisiana. The corridor along Interstate 20 would serve cities between Meridan, Mississippi, and Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas. Southern Rail Commission Chairman, Knox Ross says this has been an ongoing project.

Cut 6 (07)  “…distant service.” 

Canadian Pacific has agreed on the study with Amtrak but the co-owner of Norfolk Southern Railway would also have to approve. Ross says the application is the first step in determining the practicability of this concept.

Cut 7 (09)  “…train operation.” 

Amtrak will seek funding from last year’s congressional infrastructure law for the study. Ross says last year the cities of Monroe, Ruston, Shreveport, and Vicksburg, Mississippi began the process of applying for federal-state partnership grants for this purpose.

Cut 8 (09)  “…those cities.” 

If the study finds service is warranted, Amtrak would then seek federal money to pay for startup costs.

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A recent poll for governor has Attorney General Jeff Landry leading with 29 percent followed by Shawn Wilson with 28 percent. JMC Analytics Veteran pollster John Couvillon says with Wilson as the only major Democrat in the race…

Cut 9 (08) “…first in October.”

And with Wilson running neck and neck with Landry, Couvillon says the question is how much traction can the remaining four Republican candidates make before the primary.

Cut 10 (09) “…in the run-off.” 

The poll, conducted March 6-8, included Congressman Garret Graves, who was third with 12 percent. And with Graves out of the race, Couvillon believes his support would most likely be distributed geographically among the other Republican candidates. For example, in Baton Rouge, it would likely go to Stephen Waguespack because of name recognition.

Cut 11 (10)  “…after Garret Graves.”

And with Louisiana a majority red state, Couvillon says even if Wilson is the leader in October, he’ll have to court moderates and soft Republicans to claim victory in an expected November runoff.

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The latest national survey of small business owners shows inflation and labor shortages continues to prevent full economic recovery from the COVID pandemic. N-F-I-B state director Dawn McVea says inflation has driven up prices and there’s a lack of qualified job applicants…

Cut 12 (09) “…unrelenting inflation”. 

McVea says 47-percent of owners reported job openings that were hard to fill, remaining historically very high…

Cut 13 (05) “…workforce.”

McVea says the workforce issue needs to be resolved soon so the economy can grow again. She says they need the help of the federal and state government, because small business owners are doing what they can to cope with the labor shortage…

Cut 14 (07)  “…work schedules.”

Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon announces he’s not running for re-election this fall. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Female lawmakers believe the state would be better served with a larger presence in the Capitol. Teiko Foxx has the story.

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Louisiana’s longest serving Insurance Commissioner, Jim Donelon, announces he’s not running for re-election. Donelon has served as the state’s insurance commissioner since 2006, but over the last year the number of insurance companies willing to write private property insurance has declined and that’s where his focus needs to be

Cut 3 (05) “…re-election effort.” 

Donelon has served Louisiana for nearly 50 years. He was first elected to public office in 1975 as Chairman of the Jefferson Parish Council. He also served in the Louisiana House of Representatives for 21 years from 1981 to 2001. He says it’s time to step away….

Cut 4 (10)  “…new hobbies” 

When the legislative session begins in April, lawmakers will discuss solutions to reversing rising property insurance premiums. Donelon says he does not want a re-election campaign hanging over the debate that will occur at the capitol…

Cut 5 (09) “…legislative session.”

The only announced candidate for Insurance Commissioner is Republican Tim Temple, who Donelon defeated in the 2019 election by 82-thousand votes. Donelon said at a press event he does not have a successor mind.

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March is Women’s History Month and despite women being the majority of the state’s population – they are the minority in the Louisiana legislature. There are currently 23 in the House and five in the Senate. Chair of the Louisiana Legislative Women’s Caucus, Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell says there’s a need for more women representation in the legislature.

Cut 6 (11)  “…the legislature.” 

Data from the Center for American Women and Politics at Rutgers University shows twenty-eight of the Louisiana Legislature’s 144 seats are held by women – the 45^th lowest percentage in the country. Mizell hopes to see more women for legislative seats this fall.

Cut 7 (11)  “…the Senate side.” 

Mizell says one of the reasons why there’s a small number of females serving in the Legislature, women face larger challenges and more burdens than men…

Cut 8 (06)  “… we got.” 

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Because the cost of insulin has risen from $20 a vial to anywhere between $300 and $700 since the 90s, Attorney General Jeff Landry is taking on manufacturers and pharmacy benefit managers.

Cut 9 (11) “…are charging folks.”

Sanofi-Aventis, (so-noff-ee) Novo Nordisk, and several Pharmacy Benefit Managers are named in the suit. Landry hopes the lawsuit will result in patients being charged a reasonable $30 per vial of insulin. More than half a million Louisianans depend on insulin to control their diabetes.

Landry says while diabetes is treatable the price of insulin has forced many diabetics to either forego or ration their medication, resulting in other complications.

Cut 10 (11) “…their supplies” 

Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness, kidney failure, and lower limb amputations. Landry says 20% of middle-class Americans are unable to take their prescribed dosage of insulin.

Cut 11 (05)  “…afford it.”

Just this morning Novo Nordisk announced they are lowering the cost of their insulin pens and vials by up to 75% beginning January 1^st and last month Lilly said they are capping the cost of a vial of insulin at $35.

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Baton Rouge Police say they have arrested a Person Of Interest in the mysterious death of Georgia businessman Nathan Millard last month. BRPD Sgt. L’Jean McNeely says 45-year-old Derrick Perkins was with Millard the night he died, and patrolling officers located him today, in the overnight hours…:

Cut 12 (07) “…in custody. 

McKneely says officers took Perkins into custody without incident. They arrested him because they determined he had outstanding warrants…:

Cut 13 (13) “…a motor vehicle.”

Police will question him about the death of Nathan Millard on February 23^rd. Millard’s body was found several days ago, wrapped in an old rug, but the preliminary autopsy says he did not meet a violent end. McKneely says Perkins is not necessarily a suspect in Millard’s death, but the manner in which they found the 2003 Toyota sedan Perkins was driving that night is a matter of concern…:

Cut 14 (06)  “…had been burned.”

Perkins was charged with a probation violation, 3 counts of ATM device fraud, criminal damage to property and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.

Former president of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry Stephen Waguespack is the fifth Republican to join the governor’s race. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Former LSU basketball coach Will Wade is back in coaching as he’s the new head coach at McNeese. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Republican and former president of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry Stephen Waguespack is also running for governor. As the fifth Republican to join the race, Waguespack says he wants to make changes so more residents will choose to stay and thrive in Louisiana versus moving out of state.

Cut 3 (10) “…why I’m running.” 

49-year-old Waguespack, who also served as a top aide for former Governor Bobby Jindal, says he wants to stop the brain drain. He says his knowledge and experience with business and industry will be a top priority for the governor’s office to provide better-paying jobs for residents.

Cut 4 (10)  “…in Louisiana.” 

The father of three says another key to keeping residents is to reduce crime. He says if Louisianans feel safe and have better-paying jobs they’ll stay, and the better quality of life will attract more to the state. Even though the field is crowded with Republicans Waguespack says it’s not an issue for his candidacy.

Cut 5 (10) “…lead like that.”

Qualifying for the October 14th primary election is Aug. 8th through the 10th.

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A 24-year-old female was arrested in Metairie after stealing a state trooper’s vehicle over the weekend. Louisiana State Police along with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office pursued and apprehended Bethany Holmes of Marksville. State Trooper Kate Stegall says Holmes stole the vehicle while a trooper was investigating a traffic accident.

Cut 6 (06)  “…parking lot.” 

The police unit was stolen near the intersection of  Veterans Boulevard and Clearview Parkway. Stegall says Holmes hit several vehicles during the police pursuit.

Cut 7 (07)  “…a crash.” 

Holmes was charged with two counts of hit and run and single counts of aggravated flight from an officer, theft of a motor vehicle, simple criminal damage to property, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, theft of a firearm, reckless operation of a motor vehicle and aggravated battery, and driving without wearing a seatbelt.

Cut 8 (08)  “… was injured.” 

The investigation is ongoing.

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Former LSU men’s basketball coach Will Wade was introduced today as the new head coach of the McNeese Cowboys. LSU fired Wade a year ago after the NCAA alleged he helped supply impressible cash payments to recruits and their families. Wade is excited for the chance to turn around a program in an area of the state still in hurricane recovery…

Cut 9 (08) “…needs a rebirth”

Wade takes over a program that went 11-and-23 this past season. The 23 losses were the most ever for a McNeese basketball team. Wade is predicting at least 23 wins next season…

Cut 10 (10) “…ready to roll” 

Wade re-energized a dormant LSU men’s basketball program team when he was hired in 2017. In five seasons in Baton Rouge, held the Tigers to an SEC regular season championship and LSU made three trips to the NCAA Tournament. Wade is looking to bring excitement to McNeese basketball and they’ll do it in a way that southwest Louisiana can be proud of…

Cut 11 (12)  “…we do”

McNeese State A-D Heath Schroyer believes Wade is the best man to fix Cowboys basketball. Schroyer and Wade used to be college coaches at different schools in Tennessee and have known each other for several years.

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A 28-year-old woman and her two daughters, one seven and the other eight drowned Sunday afternoon in Cameron Parish in the Gulf off Long Beach Road. Sheriff Ron Johnson says they received a call from campers in the area who saw a three-year-old boy wandering alone.

Cut 12 (09) “…called 911″ 

The victim’s nine-year-old son was pulled from the water and is listed in stable condition. Johnson says the water was extremely rough Sunday afternoon and rocks in the area made conditions even more dangerous.

Cut 13 (12) “…to help them.” 

The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Coast Guard, local fire department, and ambulance district all assisted in recovery efforts.

Johnson reminds families to be extremely cautious when swimming in moving waters because conditions can change quickly and even trained swimmers can find themselves in a perilous situation. He says it’s not the first time it’s happened.

Cut 14 (09)  “…heartbreaker for us.”

He says the family was originally from Mississippi but moved to Beaumont, Texas for the father’s job. Their identities have not been released.

LSU President William Tate will get a taste of Louisiana during his inaugural “Scholarship First” bus tour; kicking off today.  Teiko Foxx reports…:

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

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There’s another FDA-approved migraine medication about to be on the market and it’s a nasal spray. Brooke Thorington has more….:

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The final piece of funding that fully funds the construction of the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion Project. Kevin Gallagher has the story…:

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher” 

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LSU President William Tate will get a taste of Louisiana on his inaugural Scholarship First bus tour that kicks off today. The tour, powered by RoyOMartin, the first stop will be at LSU’s original campus in Pineville. Tate says this is a listening tour and an awareness campaign all rolled into one.

Cut 4 (11)  “…they need.”

The goal of the tour is to learn more about some of the state’s key industries to ensure alignment with LSU’s priorities. Tate says the agenda prioritizes agriculture, biomedical, energy, defenses, and coastal resilience.

Cut 5 (08) “…cyber side.”

The 1,000-mile road trip will travel across Louisiana – making stops in Monroe, Alexandria, Jeanerette, Natchitoches, Crowley, Chopin, New Orleans, and Lake Charles. Tate says information gathered during the tour will help to put the finishing touches on its master plan.

Cut 6 (09)  “…on clinical trials.” 

The tour ends in Convent on March 16.

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March is Sleep Awareness month and we’re even more aware of our lacking slumber thanks to the time change. United Healthcare Louisiana chief medical officer Dr, Kevin Stephens says sleep is a learned behavior and just like we are trained as children to sleep certain hours we need to re-train as adults sometimes.

Cut 7 (10) “.. rigid regimen.”

Stephens admits it’s difficult to cut everything off, like our TVs, phones, and tablets. He says these distractions often make time fly by and you realize it’s way past your bedtime. Stephens recommends turning off those distractions and preparing for bedtime. He suggests reading a book, turning off the lights, and even meditation, and…

Cut 8 (07) “…go to sleep.”

Lack of sleep he says can contribute to weight gain, depression, and cardiovascular disease. Stephens says we should strive for seven to eight hours a night. And there are sleeping disorders, for example, insomnia, that Stephens says could be caused by an underlying health condition.

Cut 9 (10)  “…a sleep study.”

Other sleep disorders like narcolepsy, and sleep apnea should be monitored by a physician at a sleep lab.

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The FDA has approved a nasal spray for the treatment of migraines.  Ochsner Health Neurologist Dr. Jose Posas (poe-sauce) says this is welcome news because there are more options than ever to give migraine sufferers relief.

Cut 10 (08)  “…a professional.”

The nasal spray is called Zavegepant (zav-gee-pant) and in trials, 24 percent of patients reported they are pain-free in two hours and 40 percent were free of sensitivities, to things like light, sound and even nausea.  Posas says the nasal spray is also ideal for heart patients who had to avoid other migraine meds that often tighten blood vessels.

Cut 11 (09)  “… suffering.”

In addition to cardiac patients who can benefit from the nasal spray, Posas says patients who use preventative oral medications or even Botox to decrease the frequency of their migraine attacks.

Cut 12 (12) “…for them.”

He says Zavegepant should begin rolling out to pharmacies in the near future.

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The Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority says the final funding piece is in place for the construction of the Mid-Barataria Sediment, a massive coastal restoration project expected to create over 20 square miles of wetlands in the Barataria Basin over the next 50 years. C-P-R-A Director Bren Haase says the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation is investing 660 million dollars in the project…

Cut 13 (08) “… Mid-Barataria Basin” 

The overall cost of the project is over two-billion dollars. Haase says construction is expected to begin this summer to reconnect the Mississippi River to Louisiana’s Barataria Basin estuary…

Cut 14 (08)  “….estuary”

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser, the St. Bernard and Plaquemine Parish councils, oystermen, and fishermen oppose the coastal restoration plan. They say it threatens fishing, dolphins, and their economies and culture. But Haase says the diversion will be a positive for the estuary…

Cut 15 (09)  “…grandfathers did”

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New Saints starting quarterback Derek Carr says he chose New Orleans of the interest the team showed him as he searched for a new team after nine seasons with the Raiders. Carr says he was also overwhelmed with the southern hospitality this his family has received

Cut  16 (15)  “…my questions.” 

Carr says he spoke with former Saints quarterback Drew Brees and the Manning family as he was considering his options. The 31-year-old also says he has a chip on his shoulder after the Raiders decided to go in a different direction…

Cut 17 (20) “…I can do.” 

Carr believes the Saints’ offense can be explosive and he’s already connected with wide receiver Michael Thomas…

Cut 18 (21) “…for sure.”

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The LSU Lady Tigers are a three-seed in the NCAA Tournament and they’ll host Hawaii on Friday in Baton Rouge. If LSU wins, they’ll play the winner of the Michigan and UNLV matchup on Sunday at the Maravich Center. Last season, LSU lost at home in the second round and Coach Kim Mulkey hopes they can go a little farther this year…

Cut 19 (17) “…the year”

In the first two years of the Mulkey era, LSU received a high enough seed in the NCAA Tournament to host the first two rounds. Some fans are disappointed with the three-seed, but Mulkey reminds everyone this program has come a long way in a short time…

Cut 20 (22)  “…of schedule” 

A state lawmaker wants to give D.A.s more time to decide if certain juvenile offenders should be tried as adults. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (34)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Police have identified the killers in the death of an infant girl found in 1992. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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State lawmakers file legislation that would give prosecutors twice the time to screen cases wherein a juvenile offender may be charged as an adult. Metairie Representative Laurie Schlegel says her House Bill 54 was inspired by the case of two New Orleans youths arrested for carjacking and attempted murder. The D.A. missed a 30-day deadline to charge them as adults for nearly killing their victim. She says her bill will help with similar cases…:

Cut 3 (07) “…as adult offenders.” 

Schlegel’s bill would double the prescriptive period for charging juveniles as adults; from 30 days to 60 days. She says charging certain minors as adults allows more serious punishment when they commit violent crimes, like rape, murder, attempted murder and carjacking…:

Cut 4 (08)  “…and held accountable.” 

Last month, an Orleans Parish judge dismissed charges against 17-year-old Kendell Myles, after he escaped juvenile detention, carjacked a man and shot him. The reason: the 30-day period to charge him as an adult had passed. Schlegel says prosecutors need more leeway in dealing with perpetrators like Myles…:

Cut 5 (09) “…as an adult.”

Schlegel’s bill will come up in the regular legislative session, which starts a month from today.

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If a crawfish boil is on your agenda this weekend, you’ll be happy to know the average price has dropped 50 cents a pound, to $2.84 a pound for live mudbugs. That’s according to Crawfish App Co-founder Laney King who says that’s on top of the drop in prices last weekend.

Cut 6 (10)  “…this weekend.” 

King says the current price drop is unexpected and down 30 percent compared to prices this time last year. But next weekend is St. Patrick’s Day and like other spring holidays, Easter, and Mother’s Day she expects to see an increase in prices due to demand.

Cut 7 (07)  “…what happens.” 

The Crawfish App average per pound is calculated from the 16 hundred vendors in Louisiana. And while $2.84 is the average Laney says south Louisiana will see prices even lower.

Cut 8 (04)  “…are farmed.” 

If you’re looking to purchase boiled crawfish you can expect to pay $5.22 a pound for medium-large-sized mudbugs.

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State Police investigators have arrested the parents of an infant female found inside a garbage bag in Picayune, Mississippi back in 1992. Inga Johansen Carriere was arrested in Avondale, LA on Feb. 28^th and Andrew Carriere was arrested in Galliano, LA on March 9. State Trooper Kate Stegall says the two were booked into the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center on first-degree murder…

Cut 9 (05) “…in Mississippi.”

The Picayune Police Department and Detectives Mississippi Bureau of Investigations reopened the investigation in 2021. Stegall says the breakthrough in the case is a testament to the advancements in forensic technology as DNA profiles and fingerprints were developed.

Cut 10 (05) “…30 years.” 

Stegall says the Picayune Police has various pieces of evidence, some of it tied to associations in Gretna, Louisiana

Cut 11 (05)  “…are today.”

State Police said that the investigation is ongoing.

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The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness will end its Hurricane Ida Sheltering Program on May 31st. Following the destructive Category four storm, the state supplied thousands of displaced families with travel trailers. GOHSEP Director Casey Tingle says the trailers were always viewed a a temporary living arrangement

Cut 12 (08) “…recovery process” 

Tingle says Ida Sheltering Program staff can assist families find other housing if repairs to their pre-Ida home are not complete.

Cut 13 (11) “..long term.” 

Ida Sheltering Program Staff can be reached at 844-268-0301. Tingle says there are about 23-hundred households still occupying the travel trailers and some are close to moving back into their homes and there are others who might not know where their next home will be…

Cut 14 (09)  “…to us”

The Humane Society of Louisiana says the lack of services compounds pet overpopulation issues across the state. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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DCFS has hired more than 300 employees for their child welfare division after they were plagued with several child death cases that fell through the cracks. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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State Police are investigating a Wednesday crash in Jackson Parish that took the life of a woman and young girl. Master Trooper Javier Leija (Hah-vee-er LAY-hah) says it happened at around 3:45 yesterday, on state Highway 167, and involved a Honda CRV driven by 29-year-old Katelyn Granger…:

Cut 3 (12) “…and the passenger.” 

Leija says Granger, the driver, was wearing a seatbelt when she ran into the back of the stopped bus, but nevertheless died from her injuries after being taken to a nearby hospital. The other victim, is 7-year-old Anna Rivers, who Leija says was not properly restrained, and was in the front seat where children should not be. She was pronounced dead at the scene. He says the driver of the CRV was responsible for her passengers’ safety…:

Cut  4 (08)  “…when driving.” 

Two other children in the SUV were wearing seatbelts and suffered moderate injuries. The children on the school bus received some scrapes and bruises, but are otherwise OK. Leija says, at this time, they do not know why Granger failed to brake before she ran into the bus…:

Cut 5 (08) “…to the crash.”

Trooper Leija says impairment is not suspected, but distracted driving cannot yet be ruled out. LSP is investigating.

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It was two weeks ago a suspected cybersecurity attack resulted in the shutdown of Southeastern Louisiana University’s computer network system. The network still has not been restored and S-L-U professor Dayne Sherman says students are worried about their classwork and their credit scores…

Cut 6 (08)  “..etcetera, etcetera” 

Wi-Fi was recently restored in the union, library and all residence halls. Sherman blames outgoing S-L-U President John Crain for not doing more to help professors and students during this difficult time…

Cut 7 (10)  “…they’re doing” 

Crain is set to retire at the end of the current academic year and in a statement says good progress is being made to restore to the university’s computer and internet system. Adjustments have been made to the academic calendar. But Sherman says AT&T should have been brought on campus to help…

Cut 8 (07)  “…to use” 

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The Humane Society of Louisiana is urging the state to approve funding for new animal shelters and improve existing ones. HSLA Director, Jeff Dorson says lawmakers can approve the much needed funding in the upcoming legislative session

Cut 9 (05) “…rural areas.”

More than 31 of the state’s 64 parishes lack facilities. This contributes to stray, missing, and hurt animals struggling to survive on the streets.

Cut 10 (09) “…huge problems.” 

Legislators are asked to set aside $3 million to distribute as grants of up to $100,000 to eligible parishes and municipalities.

Cut 11 (09)  “…everybody else.”

This year’s legislative session begins April 10.

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The Department of Children and Family Services has hired 326 full-time workers since July, which increases their staff to 35 hundred. The agency has been under fire after several high-profile child death cases. DCFS Secretary Terri Ricks says while she’s pleased, they still want and need more employees.

Cut 12 (07) “…the solution.” 

DCFS has held 12 statewide hiring fairs to increase staffing of the Child Welfare Division. Ricks says people feel called to take on what’s very often a difficult job.

Cut 13 (08) “…in the past.” 

Ricks says as they continue to hire more employees and the agency is also taking steps to retain existing employees with a bump in pay.

The agency has been plagued with staffing shortages at a time when child welfare cases continue to increase. Ricks says welfare investigations are up more than 30 percent compared to their five-year average and are on trend to surpass the last fiscal year’s caseload by 6,000.

Cut 14 (10)  “…by that”

Ricks says the agency is also trying to assist families are who experiencing food insecurities after the federal SNAP benefits were reduced. She encourages families in need to call 2-1-1 for assistance.

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says important issues on the national level keep him from running for governor. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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This weekend, we move the clocks up an hour for Daylight Saving Time. A Louisiana lawmaker believes we should be Daylight Saving time year round. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Congressman Garret Graves says the Republican Party’s slim majority in the U-S House of Representatives is a big reason why he decided not to run for governor. Graves, who was re-elected to a fifth term last year, has a lot of important issues to tackle on the federal level…

Cut 3 (07) “…not to run” 

The gubernatorial race has several major candidates, Republicans Jeff Landry, John Schroder, Sharon Hewitt and Richard Nelson. Democrat Shawn Wilson and independent Hunter Lundy are also contenders. Graves said it was not an easy decision to remain in Washington D.C.

Cut  4 (12)  “…the field.” 

Graves says even though he’s not a candidate for governor, he plans to be involved in the race by asking the candidates direct on how they plan to improve Louisiana.

Cut 5 (07) “…best governor”

Graves believes the next governor of the state has yet to announce their candidacy. Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack is expected to get in the race Thursday. Louisiana House Speaker Clay Schexnayder also says he’s considering a campaign.

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This weekend, Louisiana returns to daylight saving time something Haughton Representative Dodie Horton wishes was year-round.  Horton passed a bill in 2020 that would make daylight saving time permanent in Louisiana but it only goes into effect if Congress passes the  “Sunshine Protection Act”.

Cut 6 (05)  “…full time.” 

A 2021 poll conducted by The Associated Press – NORC Center for Public Affairs Research found only 25% of people preferred changing between standard and daylight time.

Cut 7 (07)  “…year round.” 

Horton says reduced crime, decrease in seasonal depression, and child obesity are benefits of a permanent time switch.

Cut 8 (06)  “…the day.” 

Standard time resumes in November.

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Attorney General Jeff Landry says the state scored a huge victory Tuesday in federal court challenging California’s ban on the importation and sale of alligator products. Landry says the ban could have disrupted the supply chain and decimated the industry.

Cut 9 (11) “…yesterday we won.”

Landry says the alligator trade has directly led to the resurgence and conservation of the American alligator as well as the protection and maintenance of their wetland habitat.

Cut 10 (12) “…unbelievable it was great.” 

He says as much as $100 million in revenue to the alligator industry in Louisiana would have been lost. Landry also thanked State Wildlife and Fisheries and members of the industry for helping them win the case.

Cut 11 (12)  “…and the world.”

Landry credits the state and industry for increasing the alligator population and removing it from the endangered species list.

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A Chalmette church pastor is arrested for allegedly molesting a minor for a span of several years. Louisiana State Police Trooper Kate Stegall says they were first made aware of the accusations last November, and the investigation turned up numerous alleged assaults that happened from 2010 to 2013; starting when the victim was just 14…:

Cut 12 (12) “…Milton Martin the Third” 

56-year-old Milton Martin III, of Chalmette, is charged with sexual battery and carnal knowledge of a juvenile. He is pastor of the First Pentecostal Church of Chalmette. He’s accused of molesting the victim for over three years. Stegall says the LSP Special Victims Unit investigation turned up sufficient evidence and victim testimony to issue a warrant for Martin’s arrest…:

Cut 13 (07) “…St. Bernard Parish jail.” 

Trooper Stegall says the alleged victim should be commended for having the courage to come forward and tell someone…:

Cut 14 (08)   “…of other victims.”

Stegall says any others who may have been a victim of Milton – or any other abuser – should contact the State Police Special Victims Unit at 504-310-7011.

Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is not running for governor, but another potential Republican candidate emerges. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Governor Edwards continues his overseas trade mission in Asia. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (33)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Republican Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is not running for governor this year. Political consultant Roy Fletcher says Graves’ decision is not a surprise…

Cut 3 (07) “…not to run” 

In an email to supporters, Graves says it’s clear the best service he can provide to Louisiana and the next governor is by building upon recent wins in the U-S Congress. Fletcher says there are a lot of Republicans who wanted Graves to run, but he has a good situation in the U-S House…

Cut  4 (09)  “…wants to do” 

With Graves not running, another Republican name has surfaced as a possible candidate, Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack. Fletcher expects Waguespack to make an official announcement on Thursday that he is running…

Cut 5 (08) “…issues too”

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Governor John Bel Edwards is officially endorsing retired DOTD Secretary, Shawn Wilson for governor. Wilson announced his campaign for governor yesterday with a video on his website. LA-Polictics.com Publisher, Jeremy Alford says although Wilson’s announcement has come a bit late – he already has an edge in the race.

Cut 6 (11)  “…same about.” 

Under Governor Edwards leadership, Wilson served as Transportation Secretary for seven years. Alford says Wilson’s base of supporters will serve as a solid component in his race for governor.

Cut 7 (11)  “…election day” 

Attorney General Jeff Landry has five million dollars in his campaign funds putting Wilson at a preliminary disadvantage. Alford says the race for governor will be unpredictable.

Cut 8 (05)  “…the unexpected.” 

Louisiana’s gubernatorial election is October 14^th.

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Governor Edwards and business leaders continue their mission abroad building and nurturing foreign trade relationships. Louisiana Economic Development (LED) Secretary Don Pierson spoke to us from Tokyo this morning, he says the chemical company Shintech is approaching a $10 billion investment with the state and future investments are dependent on demonstrating a commitment from the state.

Cut 9 (10) “…to Louisiana.”

Pierson says the Bayou State’s agriculture industry benefits from foreign trade along with state ports. For example, Zen-Noh (zen-no-ah) grain is able to access grain from farmers via the Mississippi River and then distribute it globally. He says in addition to the state’s traditional relationships, they are nurturing new ones.

Cut 10 (12) “…our future.” 

In America, businesses operate independently but in Asia, Pierson says many companies are guided by their government. So the trip has included meetings with executives from the  Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry.

Cut 11 (12)  “…talking to.”

The Louisiana delegation has also met with the U.S. Ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanuel on their visit.

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After losing in the Sun Belt Tournament Championship game last season, the Ragin Cajuns won in the league’s tournament title last night as they defeated South Alabama 71 to 66. The win puts Bob Marlin’s team in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2014

Cut 12 (14) “…make it happen” 

U-L Lafayette will find out on Sunday who they will play and where in the first round of the NCAA Tournament.

They entered the season as the favorites to win the Sun Belt and they’ve compiled a record of 26-and-7. Marlin says it’s a special group of players….

Cut 13 (04) “…great things” 

Cajuns guard Themus Fulks had a career-high 23 points, while Jordan Brown had 13 points and 16 rebounds. Marlin says three-point shooting was the difference in the game…

Cut 14 (08)   “…three for eleven.”

This is the fifth NCAA Tournament berth for the Cajuns.

Former DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson makes it official, he’s running for governor. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Increasing screenings to close racial and rural disparities and improving health outcomes among Louisianans is the mission of a new campaign.  Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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New data shows Louisiana is among the worst states in the U.S. for public electric vehicle charging infrastructure. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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The first formidable Democrat announces his candidacy for governor, just two days after his official retirement from the Department of Transportation and Development. Dr. Shawn Wilson says it was his grandchildren who inspired him to run for the state’s highest office.

Cut 4 (10)  “…seven years.”

Wilson who’s been a state employee for 25 years, says he’s worked with four different governors. He was appointed secretary by Governor Edwards in 2016 and says he expects his former boss will support his candidacy.

Cut 5 (08) “…from the governor.”

Political analysts say the amount of campaign funds in one’s war chest often determine who will most likely win a race. Wilson’s formal candidacy was announced Monday after his retirement Saturday. Wilson, who says he did not raise any funds when he worked for the state, believes good leadership can’t be bought.

Cut 6 (11)  “…that does not phase me.” 

Wilson will face six other declared candidates in the October 14^th primary; four Republicans, one Democrat, and an independent.

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March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and the Louisiana Department of Health is kicking off its campaign aimed at increasing screenings. Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in men and women in the country. State Health Officer with LDH, Dr. Joe Kanter, says their mission is to increase screenings across the state. 

Cut 7 (06) “…two percent.”

Many people who are higher at risk never get screened. Kanter says it’s important to reach people where they are.

Cut 8 (11) “…is worse.”

Only 38.7 percent of Medicaid recipients ages 50 to 75 have been screened for colorectal cancer. Kanter says there are several different types of tests available and early testing is the key.

Cut 9 (07)  “…diagnosed late.”

To find a community screening, visit marybird.org/get-screened.

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Louisiana is lagging behind when it comes to electric vehicle recharging infrastructure. The website “iSeeCars.com” compiled data from the U.S. Census and the Department of Energy and ranked Louisiana second-worst in the country; behind only Mississippi. Louisiana Clean Fuels Executive Director Ann Vail says the figures are alarming, but things are getting better for alternative fuel vehicles…:

Cut 10 (11)  “…all over the state.”

Louisiana has about ONE EV charging station per 2300 residents. Vail says the state will start installing chargers along interstate corridors this year, and the private sector is also stepping up…:

Cut 11 (13)  “…EV chargers there.”

Vail says the ranking is somewhat unfair, because it only counts public EV charging infrastructure, and most EV owners charge up at home…:

Cut 12 (07) “…that bad right now.”

The state will receive $ 73 million from the federal Infrastructure Law to install more EV chargers. Vail says the state has been slow to embrace electric vehicles, but it is catching up with other states rapidly.

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Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell is asking why Entergy customers in north Louisiana should foot a portion of restoration costs to repair damages to the power grid in the southern half of the state after a hurricane.

Cut 13 (12) “…a month.” 

Campbell says he voted against the average $15 monthly restoration fee that Louisiana Entergy customers will be charged for the next fifteen years. And even though he’s against the overall fee, he says Entergy has told him they don’t have the ability to only charge customers who were directly impacted by hurricanes.

Cut 14 (12)  “…have to pay.”

He says many people don’t understand utility companies like Entergy can make record profits and at the same time charge their customers restoration fees. Campbell says Entergy takes out a bond to pay for storm-related costs and it’s their customers who pay off the bond over time.

Cut 15 (11)  “…be charging.”

The next Public Service Commission meeting is scheduled for March 15^th.

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Former Las Vegas Raiders QB Derek Carr has signed a 4-year deal with the New Orleans Saints worth a reported $150 million that includes $100 million in total guarantees. The 31-year-old Carr, a four-time Pro Bowler, was originally drafted in the second round in the 2014 NFL Draft out of Fresno State by the Raiders. Host of the Saints Locked On Podcast, Ross Jackson says this gives the Saints positioning to be the most equipped team in the NFC South.

Cut  16 (14)  “…in 2023.” 

Carr started in 142 career regular season games, throwing for 35,222 yards with 217 touchdown passes, 99 interceptions, and a 91.8 passer rating. Jackson says Carr’s signing gives the Black & Gold the capacity to lure more talent.

Cut 17 (10) “…as well.” 

Carr holds the franchise records for games and multiple-touchdown passes (69), games with a passer rating of at least 100.0 (47), and a 300-yard passing contest (33). Jackson says there will be a number of cuts and shuffling during free agency next week.

Cut 18 (09) “…right foot.”

NFL free agency officially starts March 15th.