The Saints have found a new starting quarterback as the team signs veteran Derek Carr. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The body of the Georgia man who went missing on February 22^nd while on a business trip in Baton Rouge was recovered early this morning. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (34)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The Saints have a new starting quarterback as the Black and Gold ink Derek Carr to a four-year contract. Carr spent nine seasons with the Raiders, leading the franchise to two playoff appearances and he’s a four-time Pro Bowl selection. NFL analyst Mike Detillier says New Orleans is not interested in a rookie leading its offense…

Cut 3 (07) “..veteran quarterback” 

Allen was the head coach of the Raiders when they drafted Carr in 2014. He’s the the Raiders all-time passing leader, but Las Vegas released Carr last month after suffering through one of his worst seasons. However, Detillier says Carr is an up grade over last season’s starting Q-B Andy Dalton…

Cut  4 (11)  “…do that.” 

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports the Saints are expected to release quarterback Jameis Winston after three seasons in New Orleans. Detillier says the Saints are making a commitment to Carr by signing him to a four-year contract, so it will be up to Carr to get on the same page with some of the team’s young receivers Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed…

Cut 5 (07) “…your offense”

Carr’s four-year deal is reportedly worth 150-million dollars, with 100-million dollars in guarantees.

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Retired DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson kicked off his campaign for governor today with a video announcement on his website WilsonForLA-dot-com. Wilson, the first high-profile Democrat to jump in the race, says he’s a bridge builder, literally and figuratively….

Cut 6 (10)  “…to be.” 

After working for the state for 25 years, Wilson retired from the Department of Transportation and Development on Saturday. He’s worked with four different governors and is running to be the next governor.

Seven years ago, Wilson was appointed Secretary of DOTD and says back then the state was facing record budget deficits and a slumping economy. He says the department was short on funds and plans for a majority of the infrastructure projects the state needed were not in the works.

Cut 7 (13)  “…state history.” 

Under Wilson’s leadership, the state has invested almost $5.5 billion in more than 2,000 projects across the state that include 162 bridges, 7,000 miles of road improvements, and investments in ports, rail, and flood control.

Cut 8 (10)  “…Louisiana forward.” 

Along with being the first formidable Democrat in the race, Wilson is the only African-American in the 2023 governor’s race.

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The body of 42-year-old Nathan Millard, the Georgia man who went missing on February 22^nd while on a business trip in Baton Rouge was recovered early this morning in North Baton Rouge. United Cajun Navy President Todd Terrell, who assisted in the search could only release a few details but says it’s not the outcome they wanted.

Cut 9 (11) “…get on the news.”

Millard’s body was found around 3:30 am this morning near the intersection of Scenic Highway and Chippewa Street, reportedly wrapped in a rug and plastic. An autopsy will be performed by the East Baton Rouge Coroner’s Office to determine the cause of death.

The United Cajun Navy joined Baton Rouge Police and Texas Equusearch in the search for Millard. Terrell says their search team consists of many former police officers who’ve been successful in finding more than 20 people who went missing.

Cut 10 (12) “…those facts.” 

Terrell says the body was located about three to four miles from downtown Baton Rouge where Millard was last seen leaving a bar and walking in the direction of his hotel.

Despite heavy news coverage of Millard’s disappearance, Terrell credits search crews for directly talking to the homeless population who were unaware of the case which then led them to recover his body.

Cut 11 (13)  “…unfortunate outcome.”

Terrell says they’ve been in contact with Millard’s 19-year-old son and the family was notified of their discovery before the news broke.

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Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon sounds uncertain if he’ll run for re-election again this fall. During an appearance on “Talk Louisiana with Jim Engster” Monday, Donelon says he suspended all campaign fundraising right before the holidays…:

Cut 12 (10) “…what that is.”

Donelon last won re-election in 2019, when he defeated changer Tim Temple by a margin of just 6-percent of the vote (53% – 47%). Donelon says he has made up his mind about another term, but is unready to announce his intentions yet. He says the decision to run had little to do with suspending his fundraising, though…:

Cut 13 (06) “…past three months..” 

Donelon has been busy lately, with multiple property insurers either going insolvent or leaving the state…plus a special session to create an incentive fund to help solve that problem. Donelon is 78. He has been Insurance Commissioner since 2006. He says he is proud to have served in a position that has so much direct effect on people and businesses…:

Cut 14 (09)   “…but challenges…constantly.”

Donelon gave no indication when he may announce his decision for the October 14^th election.

The process of certifying  signatures collected in the effort to recall New Orleans Mayor  LaToya Cantrell is underway. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Crawfish season is starting to heat up and suppliers are setting trends for consumers. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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Lawyers for New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell are expected to take legal action after the number of signatures needed to trigger a recall election of the mayor has been decreased. Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin reached an agreement with the NoLaToya campaign on a number of signatures after it was determined there are about 25-thousand inactive voters on the Orleans Parish voter rolls

Cut 3 (10) “…we did that 

The number of verified signatures needed is now just under 45-thousand, it was more than 49-thousand.

Cantrell says recall effort is now an attempt to disenfranchise Black voters. Ardoin says that is a false assessment…

Cut  4 (12)  “…be changed.” 

The Orleans Parish Registrar of Voters is counting the signatures the NoLaToya campaign collected. They have until March 22nd to determine if they were successful in recalling the mayor. A recall election would take place in October.

Ardoin explains why it’s difficult to keep an accurate number of registered voters who live in Orleans Parish…

Cut 5 (09) “…after them.”

The NoLaToya campaign is not saying how many signatures they collected. Ardoin believes it will be very close on whether they got enough certified signatures.

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Whether you’re observing Lenten season or love great times with family and friends in the backyard, crawfish season is here, and prices are starting to look favorable for the delicious mudbugs. The crawfish industry is seeing a solid supply of good-sized crawfish. Co-Founder of The Crawfish App, Laney King

Cut 6 (09)  “…last year” 

As supply increases, prices are expected to continue to fall over the next couple of months. King says it’s easy to locate the red crustaceans at a price that’s affordable.

Cut 7 (08)  “…ten friends” 

More than 100 million pounds of crawfish are harvested each year with an annual economic impact of $120 million. King says prices are starting to stabilize for the economy.

Cut 8 (06)  “…great news” 

Over 1,650 vendors across the state can be found on The Crawfish App.

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Tax reform was among the topics that Republican candidates for governor addressed at the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry’s annual meeting. Treasurer John Schroder says for the state to compete with surrounding states that have either eliminated, don’t have, or reduced their income Lousiana must eliminate the income tax…

Cut 9 (08) “…18 years.”

Schroder says 40% of the state budget is from income tax.

Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson says it’s vital for the state to eliminate income tax to keep residents and companies from leaving the state.

Cut 10 (11) “…they’re successful.” 

Attorney General Jeff Landry agrees that the state’s tax code is hurting more than helping, and surrounding states have either eliminated, don’t have, or reduced their state income tax.

Cut 11 (10)  “…about that.”

Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt says the state has complicated structures in the tax code and to level the playing field there are lots of exemptions and credits.

Cut 12 (11) “…to be successful.”

The primary is October 14th.

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State Police have launched a new way for citizens to interact with the department via a website that allows them to voice their compliments, complaints, or concerns about troopers. Lt. Melissa Matey says the new link can be found on their website at LSP-dot-org.

Cut 13 (09) “…those concerns.” 

Information that’s submitted with be received directly by LSP Internal Affairs personnel.

Before the link, the public could only interact electronically with state police via their social media platforms. Matey says now they can also use the new Compliments/Complaints link and social media also.

Cut 14 (10)   “…affairs personnel.”

Matey says there are several positive interactions that troopers have with the public and this new link gives them the ability to share those stories with their supervisors and the department.

Cut 15 (06) “…contact us.”

Baton Rouge Police Chief Murphy Paul discussed the Nathan Millard case on Talk Louisiana this morning, he’s the Georgia man who vanished last week.  Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (39)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Access to new resources to improve reading levels among students in the state are now available. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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Baton Rouge Police Chief Murphy Paul spoke publicly today for the first time about a missing businessman from Georgia; not seen for over a week after leaving a downtown bar on February 22nd. Paul says they’ve had training cadets canvas the area for Nathan Millard and they’ve been reviewing camera footage.

Cut 3 (10) “…Mr. Millard.” 

Paul, who appeared on WRKF’s Talk Louisiana, says it’s still a missing persons case at this time, and they are exhausting all investigative efforts. The 42-year-old man was last seen walking towards his Third Street hotel around 11:30 PM on February 29th after being cut off from the bar at Happy’s Irish Pub. Paul says he’s limited as to what details he can share with the public.

Cut  4 (10)  “…going on.” 

Milliard’s phone was reportedly located several blocks away from where he was last seen and a man used his credit card even further away at the Greyhound bus station. Paul says they are still retrieving and reviewing camera footage from downtown businesses to help fill in the gaps.

Cut 5 (08) “…tell us.”

If you have any information about Millard, you are encouraged to contact BRPD or Crimestoppers.

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An active weather day is expected today. L-R-N meteorologist John Wetherbee says the greatest risk for severe weather is for the Shreveport-Ruston area…

Cut 6 (15)  “…severe thunderstorms” 

The entire state is under a wind advisory as a result of this approaching cold front. Wetherbee says the greatest threat for the tornado outbreak is northwest Louisiana…

Cut 7 (08)  “…egg shaped” 

Wetherbee says we could see strong storms could develop this afternoon in north Louisiana…

Cut 8 (06)  “..evening tonight” 

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A new Louisiana-funded literacy program designed to help pre-K through 5th-grade students is available. The state collaborated with Scholastic – for Reading Enrichment and Academic Deliverables to provide books to students reading below grade level. Deputy Superintendent for the Department of Education, Jenna Chiasson, says the process is quite simple to get started.

Cut 9 (09) “…dot-scholastic-dot-com.”

More than 150,000 students are eligible to participate across the state. Chiasson says the READ program encourages interaction within the entire family.

Cut 10 (10) “…what they’re reading.” 

READ is the result of an Act passed in the 2022 legislative session.

Cut 11 (09)  “…this new resource.”

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A Tangipahoa Parish lawmaker wants to suspend drilling of carbon capture wells in Lake Maurepas. Ponchatoula Representative Bill Wheat (R – Dist.73) says he’ll file a bill for the regular legislative session in April that would impose a moratorium on carbon sequestration, until certain environmental concerns are addressed. Wheat says the technology is somewhat new and there are a lot of questions…:

Cut 12 (14) “…recreation on the lake.”

Air Products plans to build a $4.5-billion hydrogen producing plant in Ascension Parish, and inject the plants carbon emissions deep under the Lake Maurepas in order to meet federal emission standards. It’s but one of about $20-billion in carbon planned or under consideration in south Louisiana. Wheat says his bill is not an anti-carbon drilling crusade, but aimed at defending a fragile ecosystem…:

Cut 13 (11) “…wildlife management area.” 

Wheat says the public has far too little information on what is planned for Lake Maurepas to be 100-percent comfortable with it. He says the legislature needs to “put the brakes on”…:

Cut 14 (12)   “…what’s happening here.”

Wheat says he’ll file a second bill that would assure that any future carbon drilling projects must pass environmental impact studies.

With federal pandemic protections ending, states can once again reevaluate Medicaid participants annually for eligibility. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Louisiana Speaker of the House is looking at running for governor. Jeff Palermo spoke with Clay Schexnayder about his political future…

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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COVID protections from the federal government end in April, which means Medicaid recipients will be reevaluated for eligibility. Tara LeBlanc Executive Director of Louisiana’s Medicaid program says since March 2020 no one was removed from the program because of the pandemic but annual reviews can resume.

Cut 3 (10) “…disenroll them.” 

Those who are removed from the program will receive information for alternative coverage.

The state estimates as many as 350,000 could lose Medicaid coverage. LeBlanc says they will begin mailing pink letters and recipients must respond if they wish to remain enrolled and they’re still eligible.

Cut  4 (10)  “…contact information.” 

LeBlanc says the bulk of those who will be removed is because they make too much money or they fail to respond to letters. She says it’s vital for participants to reply to letters and update their contact information.

Cut 5 (06) “…healthcare coverage.”

The review process begins in April and remains ongoing for the next 12 months.

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Congressman Garret Graves says he met with Attorney General Jeff Landry as he moves closer to making a decision on whether to run for governor. Graves says he’s receiving strong encouragement to run as many are not happy Landry already has the Louisiana Republican Party’s endorsement

Cut 6 (10)  “…path forward” 

Graves says his meeting on Sunday with Landry lasted about 90 minutes. The Congressman has been looking a run for governor for weeks, but he’s closing in on a final decision…

Cut 7 (07)  “…ten days or so” 

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Louisiana House Speaker Clay Schexnayder says he’s considering a run for governor. The Republican from Ascension Parish says he will only get into the race if U-S Representative Garret Graves decides not to run…

Cut 8 (07)  “…t-shirt on” 

Graves says he’s receiving encouragement to run and told Talk 107-3 in Baton Rouge that expects to make a decision within the next ten days or so. Schexnayder says he’s also hearing from supporters who would like him to run…

Cut 9 (09) “…most of em.”

The Republican field for governor also includes Attorney General Jeff Landry, State Treasurer John Schroder, and state lawmakers Sharon Hewitt and Richard Nelson. Landry is considered the front-runner.

Schexnayder is term-limited in the House and has served as Speaker of the House since 2020. The 54-year-old from Gonzales was also rumored to be a candidate for Lt. Governor, before incumbent Billy Nungesser, decided to run for re-election

Cut 10 (12) “…from there.” 

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New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell responds to being filmed ‘flipping the bird’ during the Krewe of Tucks parade. Cantrell says the city was disrespected- she was provoked and she reacted.

Cut 11 (08)  “…love you”

Krewe of Tucks parade floats have often been politically satirical over the years. Cantrell says she saw this one as an attack, and reacted defensively…

Cut 12 (08) “…the city.”

Cantrell has faced a wave of criticism over the past few months, for lavish travel spending, an alleged affair with a cop assigned to protect her and more. she is under a threatened recall, and petition signatures are being verified right now. Cantrell says it was a mistake that she regrets…

Cut 13 (11) “…happen again.” 

The outcome of the petition to recall Cantrell is still unknown.

The Lafayette-based biotech company – Tides Medical headquarter expansion will increase production and create additional jobs. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…Teiko Foxx.”

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A Princeton University study indicates that climate change is behind the phenomenon of back-to-back major hurricanes. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A bill to grant Louisianans the right to carry a concealed weapon without a permit has been filed for the regular legislative session. Kevin Gallagher spoke with the bill’s author…:

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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The Lafayette-based biotech company – Tides Medical is expanding its corporate headquarters and manufacturing facility. With a growing demand for amniotic skin substitutes, the $1.5M upgrade will increase nationwide productivity. Tides Medical CEO, Joe Spell, says the expansion will 77 retain jobs and create 40 new ones.

Cut 4 (11)  “…our products.”

Tides Medical manufactures and distributes natural skin solutions used to treat patients with difficult-to-heal wounds and medical skin trauma. Spell says innovative medical research improves health outcomes.

Cut 5 (07) “…their limbs.”

Spell says the state offered a competitive incentives package that included a $200,000 performance–based grant.

Cut 6 (06)  “…the state.” 

The company estimates the project will be complete by the end of this year.

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Are back-to-back hurricanes a phenomenon or are they becoming the norm? A Princeton University study says they are becoming more routine, and the culprit is climate change. State Climatologist Barry Keim says it’s an interesting study and does make you think, especially in Louisiana…

Cut 7 (11) “…on there.”

Keim says while the back-to-back hurricane patterns used to occur once every few decades, a trend of them happening more often has emerged.

Cut 8 (07)  “…you’re down.”

The primary reason this is possible, Keim says is because climate change is expected to turn more hurricanes into severe hurricanes, increasing both the size and reach of the hurricanes.

Cut 9 (10)  “…into the future.”

With the likelihood of more major storms, that cover a greater area of the coastline, Keim says that increases the chances of following hurricanes impacting generally the same area.

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A so-called “Constitutional Carry” bill has been filed for the legislative session that starts in April. Oil City Representative Danny McCormick says Louisianans may already “open carry” and forearm in plain view, provided they have no criminal record. His bill would extend that right to a concealed weapon…:

Cut 10 (08)  “…murderers and rapists.”

McCormick’s bill would simply exempt anyone over 18, with a clean criminal record, from the crime of illegally carrying weapons. Simply put concealed carry without a permit, which McCormick says is a right guaranteed by the Second Amendment. Critics say it will make Louisiana like the “wild, wild west”, but McCormick says that’s not so…:

Cut 11 (07)  “…criminals have firearms.”

McCormick filed the same bill last year. It passed the House but was killed in the Senate when a member sought to amend it into a bill to arm school teachers. Will they seek to kill the bill again this year…?

Cut 12 (09) “…stack up this year.”

The legislature convenes on April 10^th.

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A Democrat announces he’ll run for State Treasurer of Louisiana this fall. He is 42-year-old Dustin Granger; a professional financial planner from Lake Charles. He says he wants to make the state better for future generations…:

Cut 13 (07) “…running for Treasurer.” 

Granger says the state has wasted billions investing in an oil & gas economy that is in decline. He says the state should look to invest its revenues more wisely…:

Cut 14 (13)  “…a lot of investments.”

Granger says, as a financial advisor his job is to assure clients (quote) “have income for the rest of their lives.” He says, as Treasurer he would do the same for Louisiana…:

Cut 15 (11)  “…for the state.”

Baton Rouge state Representative Scott McKnight, a Republican, is the only other announced candidate for State Treasurer so far. Granger’s website is “grangerforla.com”

In Lake Charles, a ribbon cutting was held today for a 10-point-eight million dollar culinary, gaming and hospitality teaching center. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Despite a rough beginning for the strawberry growing season weather-wise, the current warming trend has sped things up. Brooke Thorington has more.

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

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State and local officials were on hand today for the grand opening of SOWELA’s $10.8M State-of-the-art Culinary, Gaming, and Hospitality Training Center in Lake Charles. SOWELA Chancellor Dr. Neil Aspinwall says with three big casinos in Lake Charles a facility to train the workers is needed…

Cut 3 (10) “…hospitality center.” 

According to the Louisiana Workforce Commission, the hospitality jobs sector is expected to increase by nearly 15-percent by 2026. Aspinwall says they want to meet that demand…

Cut  4 (09)  “…a need.” 

The 28-thousand foot square building features a top of the line culinary kitchen, gaming tables and model hotel rooms. Aspinwall says the facility design is cutting-edge.

Cut 5 (09) “…break area.”

Funding for the facility was approved by Governor John Bel Edwards and the state legislature in 2018.

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As we approach the peak of the strawberry season, Springfield strawberry farmer, Trey Harris says production is down from this time last year. But he says the current unseasonably warm temps are speeding things up.

Cut 6 (11)  “…berries right now.” 

Harris says highs in the 80s and warm nights are causing a growth spurt among strawberries.

And while you might assume strawberry farmers welcome rain, Harris says they are able to control water consumption, and too much water and fog at this point can affect the taste of strawberries.

Cut 7 (05)  “…like water.” 

Harris says inflation has impacted farmers with increased labor, plant, and fertilizer costs. He says its vital residents support locally grown berries now more than ever.

Cut 8 (09)  “…farmers left.” 

The peak of Louisiana strawberry season is March, April, and May. Harris says in addition to buying locally grown berries residents should support the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival April 14-16.

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East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore announces he’s not running governor. Moore, who is a registered Democrat, has served as Baton Rouge’s top prosecutor since 2008. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says Moore didn’t have much of a chance with DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson expected to get in…

Cut 9 (07) “…whatsoever.”

Wilson, a Black Democrat from Lafayette, is expected to officially enter the race early in March. Pinsonat says it appears he’ll be the lone major Democrat in the race to replace outgoing Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards…

Cut 10 (06) “…John Bel Edwards did.” 

A teacher from LaSalle Parish, Danny Cole, says he will run for governor as a Democrat. Pinsonat expects the October ballot will have a few names with a “D” next to it, but he says Wilson is the Democrats best chance for a candidate to reach the run-off…

Cut 11 (12)  “…to run”

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Internet outages continue to hinder the campus of Southeastern University after an incident over the weekend. UL -System President Dr. Jim Henderson says the university and state police have identified the suspected cyber incident responsible for the outage.

Cut 12 (10) “…right now.”

State Police in coordination with the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security is assisting with the response.

Staff and students are unable to use the school’s email, along with the system students and professors use to communicate and administer tests and assignments.

Henderson says the ability to isolate and restore the school’s internet system is a testament to the Information Technology team responsible for their ability to rectify the outage.

Cut 13 (12) “…uncovered.” 

And while the inability to communicate digitally is a major inconvenience, Henderson says it could be much worse if there wasn’t an IT team prepared to handle such problems.

Cut 14 (10)   “…we follow.”

A timeline of when the school’s computer system is expected to be restored has not been released.

A recent poll – paid for by the Jeff Landry Campaign – shows the candidate for governor has a large lead on all other challengers. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The FDA grants emergency use authorization for a combination flu and COVID home test. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (29)  “….I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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After a 17-year-old was killed on I-110 Saturday night, Baton Rouge Police are asking for the public’s help in what they believe was a targeted shooting. BRPD Sgt L’Jean McKneely says it happened just after 10:30 near the Hollywood Street exit. He says the driver, Nykobia (Nah-co-bee-ah) Keller along with a passenger had just left someone’s house.

Cut 3 (11) “…injuries.” 

McKneely says they don’t believe Keller was necessarily the intended target, but they do believe the shooter was specifically shooting at her vehicle and her passenger.

Cut  4 (05)  “…that vehicle.” 

Police do not have a description of the vehicle that was shooting at Keller and her passenger nor a motive at this time.

Cut 5 (09) “…our investigation.”

Keller is survived by her four-year-old son.

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Blue Runner Foods, located in Ascension Parish, has named its first female President to lead Louisiana’s only remaining canning company. The maker of canned beans and gumbo for 105 years has been a staple in the southern region. Newly appointed President, Katie Bautsch says she’s excited about her new role.

Cut 6 (07)  “…family’s legacy.” 

The creole foods manufacturing company has been operating in Louisiana since 1918. New Orleans native, Richard Thomas, purchased the company in 1992. Bautsch says she wants to take Blue Runner to new heights…

Cut 7 (08)  “…category.” 

Famous for its canned Creole Cream Style Red Beans, Bautsch says the delicious and authentic New Orleans Creole foods will remain.

Cut 8 (09)  “…and loves.” 

Bautsch says the goal is expand their culinary offerings as well as store availability.

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A recent poll, paid for by the Jeff Landry Campaign, shows the attorney general with a huge lead among Republicans and independents in the race to be the next Governor. LSU political science professor Robert Hogan says these type of candidate-paid voter polls are not uncommon, and conservative voters’ responses to such polls are also predictable…:

Cut 9 (08) “…a great deal.”

The poll, done by KA Consulting for the Landry Campaign, shows Landry leads with 48-percent of the republican and independent vote. “Undecided” takes 2^nd place with 37-percent and all other announced candidates polled in single digits. Hogan says it’s not surprising that Landry has good name recognition…:

Cut 10 (10) “…garner media attention.” 

Hogan says Landry’s poll is fairly standard operating procedure in a political campaign…:

Cut 11 (10)  “…for what it is.”

Hogan says the poll could help cement Landry’s place as front runner in the Governor’s race, but a lot can happen between now and Election Day.

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The FDA grants emergency use authorization for a combination flu and COVID home test so you can check to see what’s causing your symptoms. LSU Health New Orleans Genetics Specialist Dr. Lucio Miele says it’s a molecular test that gives you results in 30 minutes and is almost as sensitive as a PCR that is sent to a lab for results.

Cut 12 (09) “…go around.”

It’s not just a two-for-one test, Miele says it’s a three-for-one because it can detect if you have either Flu A or B and even if you have both COVID and the flu. And because COVID is still circulating and both flu and COVID vaccines are formulated for specific variants he says you should always report your test results to your physician.

Cut 13 (12) “..the COVID virus.” 

The combination test, Miele says has only been evaluated among individuals who have symptoms of the flu or COVID.

Cut 14 (08)   “…the right test.”

A prescription is not required for the Lucira COVID-19 and Flu Home test.

District 6 Congressman Garret Graves is feeling pressure to announce whether he will or will not run for Governor this fall. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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LABI reacts to Governor John Bel Edwards’ proposed budget. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Pineville Police have added a state-of-the-art drone to their force. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The latest AARP COVID dashboard indicates the early wave of coronavirus cases in nursing homes appears to have peaked. Louisiana AARP Director of Advocacy Andrew Muhl says that’s good news, especially for this most vulnerable age group.

Cut 4 (09)  “…activities.”

Which historically will lead to an uptick in cases days later.

Muhl says because of the anticipated post-Mardi Gras community spread if you have loved ones in long-term care facilities it’s important that you stay up to date on your vaccinations. He says it’s also important to ask the facility what their COVID protocols are and do they have enough PPE.

Cut 5 (07) “…several months.”

The most recent dashboard which covered the four-week period ending on January 22, also showed a spike in nursing home staff COVID cases. Muhl says staff cases rose from 533 to 847.

Cut 6 (10)  “…antionawide.” 

Resident cases during the same period in Louisiana went from 1,007 to 1,355. COVID deaths among residents increased from 13 to 19.

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Baton Rouge area Congressman Garret Graves says he is “feeling pressure” to run for governor, but will not commit one way or the other. So, will he run or not? “LAPolitics.com” publisher Jeremy Alford has watched many political campaigns unfold and says Graves is employing a pretty smart strategy by playing coy on the race…:

Cut 7 (12) “…bit of theatrics here”

By not immediately jumping into the governor’s race and keeping everyone guessing, Graves is also keeping his name out in front of political discussions and speculations. Alford says this could work brilliantly for Graves…:

Cut 8 (09)  “…he can do that.”

Alford says Graves could jump in late and still be able to raise enough money to compete with deep-pocketed competition like Jeff Landry, who seems assured of a victory. Alford says a recent chat he had with Senator John Kennedy during DC Mardi Gras indicates that may not be so…:

Cut 9 (11)  “…about Garret Graves.”

Graves can run for Governor this fall, and simply return to Congress should he not win. Alford says the suspense is helping Graves’ “brand” and a little “political theatre” in the race is kind of fun.

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LABI reacts to the 2023-24 budget proposed by Governor John Bel Edwards. The total cost of the budget is around $45.7 billion. The Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President and CEO, Stephen Waguespack says it’s imperative to have a fiscal balance.

Cut 10 (07)  “…two years.”

Edwards is asking lawmakers to approve a $2,000 raise for certified teachers and $1,000 raise for staff. The governor also proposed- firefighters, police, and deputy sheriffs receive an additional $100 a month in supplemental pay. Waguespack says…

Cut 11 (07)  “…over time.”

A one-cent sales tax was implemented in 2016 to help fund the $2 billion deficit the state was facing. Waguespack says…

Cut 12 (11) “…time dollars.”

The regular legislative session begins on April 10.

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Pineville Police are taking to the skies in an effort to curb crime. Chief Darrell Basco says their newest drone won’t require an operator to be called in when needed and it’s accessible for the patrol division 24/7. And it’s not your average drone, he says it allows them to see things in real-time.

Cut 13 (09) “…consumer drone.” 

The newest member of the force also has infrared and thermal capabilities and can arrive at the scene before officers allowing them to assess a situation before they respond.

Basco says the drone will increase their coverage when a patient goes missing from either the Pinecrest Developmental Center or Central State Hospital. Before the drone, Basco says they would have to send up to four cars to grid and block a search area.

Cut 14 (08)  “…piece of equipment.”

The drone can be used to assist in searches for missing children as well.

Basco says they want to use as much technology that’s available to law enforcement to help them solve crimes quicker…

Cut 15 (03)  “…it occurs.”

The drone is valued at $12,000

President Biden’s team moves forward with the first-ever Gulf of Mexico offshore wind sale. Teiko Foxx has more…:

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Tax reforms passed in 2021 now have Louisiana ranked among the lowest state income tax rates, where they were once among the highest. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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After being canceled in 2021 and smaller parade routes in 2022 how was Mardi Gras this year? Brooke Thorington asks Mardi Gras Guide Publisher Arthur Hardy.

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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President Biden’s administration moved closer to meeting its offshore wind energy goals by announcing lease sales for developments in the Gulf of Mexico yesterday. Interim Executive Director of the Center of LSU Energy Studies, Greg Upton says the move is promising for investors.

Cut 4 (10)  “…that project.”

A proposed sale for offshore acreage off of Lake Charles, LA, and two areas near Galveston, Texas offshore lines will allow Gulf Coast companies to build closer to home.

Cut 5 (09) “…wind farm.”

Upton says the workforce availability may be limited short term.

Cut 6 (08)  “…in particular.” 

Although an operational wind turbine in the Gulf of Mexico is still a few years out – The Gulf auction would be the fourth offshore wind sale since Biden took office.

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Now that tax reforms passed by lawmakers a few years ago have kicked in, Louisiana now has the 6^th-lowest state income tax rate in the country. That data comes from a new report by the Tax Foundation. Baton Rouge tax attorney and consultant Jason DeCuir (“de-KWEER) says our state was among the highest (6-percent) until recently…:

Cut 7 (08) “…where we have been.”

DeCuir says the 2021 Legislature passed a so-called tax swap reform package, which removed taxpayers’ ability to deduct their annual federal taxes paid….:

Cut 8 (08)  “…4.25-percent.”

DeCuir says lowering the state tax burden will almost certainly help Louisiana with future economic development…:

Cut 9 (07)  “…one of the highest.”

Despite the now lower tax rates, Louisiana is still on track to collect about 40-percent of its annual revenue from income taxes and other declaration and withholding taxes. Legislative efforts are expected this spring to end state income tax altogether.

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Now that the 2023 carnival season is in the books, how did it compare to Mardi Gras last year and those before? Mardi Gras Guide publisher Arthur Hardy gives it two thumbs up and says Mardi Gras as we know it in New Orleans is back.

Cut 10 (10)  “…normal is good.”

Another bonus this year was the return to previous parade routes. Hardy says he was very pleased, as were others, to learn in late January that the city was able to secure enough law enforcement so parades could return to their previous routes.

Cut 11 (13)  “…just wonderful.”

In 2021 when Mardi Gras was canceled several homeowners in New Orleans elaborately decorated their homes similar to parade floats. Hardy says that’s a new trend that might be here to stay.

Cut 12 (06) “…of the streets.”

And because Mardi Gras will come early in 2024 on February 13^th Hardy says he’s already working on next year’s guide.

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Since a petition allegedly met its signature goal in New Orleans to recall Mayor LaToya Cantrell, we asked ULM Political Science Professor Pearson Cross if he believes it will spark other recall campaigns around the state He believes it will.

Cut 13 (14) “…representatives.” 

Cross says a recall isn’t cheap, and it’s a huge undertaking. He says signatures are usually collected by pay-for-play people who make 75 cents to $2 per signature. Cross says if it’s not a grassroots movement, in order to be successful, it takes donors with deep pockets that are deeply dissatisfied with an elected official.

Cut 14 (11)  “…an election.”

In California, a recall effort was responsible for the removal of Governor Gray Davis which allow Arnold Schwarzenegger to be elected, so it can happen Cross says when a higher threshold of valid signatures is required.

And because you’re required to have a certain percentage of signatures from the number of registered voters, Pearson says it’s not as difficult in small cities and towns.

Cut 15 (12)  “…in small towns.”

And Pearson says many times a recall is a statement of dissatisfaction versus we’re going to remove someone from office. Before a recall election can be called, signatures from the petitioned must be validated.

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The fifth-ranked LSU women’s basketball team is in Nashville tonight to face Vanderbilt. After giving up 79 points in Sunday’s win at Florida and 88 points in a recent loss to South Carolina, Coach Kim Mulkey is looking for better field goal percentage defense…

Cut  16 (21)  “..get their attention.” 

In the win over the Gators a few role players stepped up as Jasmine Carson knocked down a career-high seven three-pointers and LaDazhia Williams had a double-double. Mulkey says they’ll need more from their supporting cast…

Cut 17 (19) “…this league.” 

If your cell phone was stolen while partying in New Orleans, the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office may have it. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The deadline to recall New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell has arrived. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested 11 people this week involved in the theft of dozens of cell phones from people celebrating Mardi Gras festivities in New Orleans. Chief Deputy Jimmy Travis says the suspects are members of a Colombian theft ring and they are trying to return stolen phones to the owners…

Cut 3 (09) “…bring your phone” 

Phone numbers are listed on the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Facebook page.

Deputies recovered the phones from a short term rental complex in Tickfaw. Four people were arrested Sunday and 40 cell phones were recovered. Another seven individuals were arrested Monday and additional 122 cell phones recovered. Travis says they might have your phone, but the case is gone…

Cut  4 (09)  “…after the theft” 

Travis says if you lost your cell phone in New Orleans do not call their office unless you see your number listed on their Facebook page.

He says the thieves used Faraday Bags to get the phones out of New Orleans and bring them to the Northshore…

Cut 5 (12) “…or whatever”

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After criticizing Attorney General Jeff Landry and his gubernatorial run Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says they’ve mended fences. Nungesser who’s decided to run for re-election instead of the governor had some harsh words against Landry and the state GOP for endorsing Landry, but the two met recently and made amends.

Cut 6 (08)  “…elected governor.” 

The former Plaquemines Parish President who’s seeking his third term as Lt. Governor, says they also discussed projects that are important to him.

Cut 7 (11)  “…work with him.” 

Nungesser, who serves on the Louisiana Seafood Promotion and Marketing Board, has been vocal about his opposition to the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion project and says while he and Landry disagree on the project, he says Landry did agree to listen to all sides of the issue.

Cut 8 (11)  “…our fisheries.” 

The primary is October 14th.

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Today organizers of the recall New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell petition will submit signatures to the  Orleans Parish of Registrar of Voters office. They needed about 50-thousand signatures to trigger a recall election. UNO Political Science Professor Ed Chervenak expects Cantrell’s campaign to dispute the legality of many of the signatures…

Cut 9 (05) “…the signatures”

Once the signatures have been counted, the process moves forward. Governor John Bel Edwards will have nearly a week and a half to set a date for an election.

Cut 10 (8) “…that election.” 

Nearly 20% of recall signatures are declared invalid across the nation. Chervenak says the organizers came in and did what they had to do.

Cut 11 (8)  “…these signatures.”

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says he’s getting closer to a decision on whether he’ll run for governor this year. Graves says he was busy during the first six weeks of the year with issues in Washington D-C, but he’s had more time lately to contemplate a possible run

Cut 12 (07) “…going to be doing.”

Graves has represented Louisiana Sixth Congressional District area since 2015. But there are Republicans who feel he would make a great governor. Graves says he still hasn’t made up his mind…

Cut 13 (07) “..to the state.” 

Graves says he continues to be asked if he’ll run for governor…

Cut 14 (04)   “… we have”