Senator Bill Cassidy says the White House botched the handling of a suspected Chinese spy balloon that crossed the USA last week. More from Jeff Palermo…:

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Upon word that their beloved alligator Hardhide could be euthanized, the town of Ponchatoula rallied to keep her alive. Brooke Thorington explains.

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

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Louisiana’s senior Senator Bill Cassidy says the White House botched the handling of a suspected Chinese spy balloon that flew over the whole USA last week. During his weekly press teleconference, Cassidy says President Biden should have ordered the balloon intercepted far earlier than he did…:

Cut 3 (08) “…our southern border.” 

Cassidy feels the president’s failure to react to the first balloon makes us look vulnerable to foreign powers, and places our national security at risk…:

Cut  4 (09)  “…to our airspace.” 

Cassidy and other senators were briefed by the Defense Department on the balloon last week, as well as four other unidentified objects shot down in the days since. He says, at least U.S. air defenses are much more alert to such incursions going forward…:

Cut 5 (07) “…pick up these objects.”

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Mandeville Representative Paul Hollis has filed a bill for the upcoming regular session that he calls the Public Library Accountability Act. Hollis says his legislation gives power to municipalities and parishes to make sure their library system operates the way they want it to…

Cut 6 (09)  “…not be.” 

Hollis says he wants to give local governments the ability to remove individuals from library control boards…

Cut 7 (11)  “…local communities” 

State Attorney General Jeff Landry issues a legal opinion stating local governments have the authority to remove members of Library Control Boards. But Hollis says 21 years ago the attorney general at that time, Richard Ieyoub, issued an opposite opinion on that question.

LGBTQ advocates say the efforts to control the type of reading material found in libraries is an effort to censor certain books dealing with homosexuality and gender identity. But Hollis says taxpayer money should not be used to acquire some of the books he’s seen in libraries

Cut 8 (12)  “…your mind” 

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A silent alarm at the Rapides Area Drug Enforcement unit building, Sunday night, alerted deputies of a break-in. Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Tommy Carnline says when they inspected the RADE unit nothing was taken but the backdoor was propped open. Then they heard a noise at a nearby building.

Cut 9 (11) “…use the restroom.”

The RADE building houses individual offices and evidence rooms.  Matthews was taken into custody and Carnline says she faces several charges.

Cut 10 (09) “…run free.” 

The dog was impounded.  As for a motive, Carnline says the suspect told them she thought the building was a Sheriff’s Office substation. He says the door where the suspect entered is never used and serves as a fire exit.

Cut 11 (07)  “…happening again.”

Matthews is being held at the Rapides Parish Detention Center.

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After a complaint to state wildlife and fisheries the Strawberry Capital of the World went into a frenzy upon news that their beloved alligator Hardhide could be put down. Owner T-Mike Kliebert (Klee-bear) says she was hatched by his grandfather in 1957 and she’s lived at the Ponchatoula Country Market for 13 years.

Cut 12 (10) “…could do.”

Kliebert says he’s very thankful that Hardhide will be moving to the family farm after inspections and permits were cleared. The controversy even spawned a Facebook group “Save Old Hardhide.”

The nine-foot 350-pound gator has become somewhat of a mascot for Ponchatoula. Kliebert says the community rallied for Hardhide to keep her from being euthanized. He says many questioned why she couldn’t be released back into the wild instead.

Cut 13 (11) “…not an option.” 

The average life span of an American alligator is 30 to 50 years and up to 70 years in captivity. Kliebert says he along with the community is relieved that she’ll be able to spend her golden years where she was born on the family farm.

Cut 14 (05)   “…her life.”

At the request of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, her retirement date is not being released to avoid crowds during the retrieval process.

The National Retail Federation says spending on Valentine’s Day gifts will exceed last year’s $23.9 billion. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A St. Mary Parish man face numerous charges for illegally taking nutria, to profit from the state’s bounty program. More from Jeff Palermo…:

Cut 2 (33)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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Tomorrow is Valentine’s Day and while you’ll probably witness some last-minute shopping today, overall shoppers are predicted to spend a whopping $25.9 billion in the US this year. Katherine Cullen with the National Retail Federation says that’s up from $23.9 billion spent last year and the second highest on record.

Cut 3 (11) “…last year.” 

52% of consumers plan to make purchases for their Valentine’s this year.

And while the majority of those purchases are for significant others and family members, Cullen says the reason for the increase is more consumers showing appreciation for others in their life.

Cut  4 (07)  “…even pets.” 

A third of Valentine’s Day shoppers will make their purchases online this year and Cullen says the rest will purchase gifts at department stores, discount stores, or specialty stores like florists.

Cut 5 (11) “…for a loved one.”

Among the most popular gifts are candy, flowers, and greeting cards. Cullen says consumers are also planning to splurge on an evening out or even jewelry. Consumers are expected to spend $4.4 billion on an evening out and more than $5.5 billion on jewelry this year.

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State Wildlife & Fisheries agents arrest a Patterson man for illegally taking nutria, to collect bounties for the invasive species. LDWF spokesman Adam Einck (EYE-nk) says their investigation began with them being alerted to videos posted on social media that showed the cruel acts…:

Cut 6 (11)  “…who was doing it.” 

They arrested 45-year-old Harris DeHart last week. He is seen in the videos catching nutria by gassing them, cutting off their tails and letting them go; impaired and badly injured. Einck says he faces a long list of charges…:

Cut 7 (11)  “…that’s not allowed.” 

Einck says the state pays a bounty for the invasive animals, and they pay by how many tails one turns in. However, he says the manner in which DeHart was getting the tails was cruel and in violation of state law for how nutria are to be legally taken. He says DeHart was, in essence, cheating the nutria bounty system…:

Cut 8 (09)  “…been taken away.” 

If convicted, DeHart could face stiff fines and serious jail time of up to ten years.

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Baton Rouge Representative Scott McKnight who’s so far the only candidate running for State Treasurer addressed the Press Club of Baton Rouge this afternoon. The insurance executive has been in the legislature since 2020.

Cut 9 (10) “…State Treasurer.”

The Republican says the legislature approves the budget, and the treasurer holds onto the funds and makes sure it’s allocated and goes where and when it is needed. As for the remaining funds, McKnight says it’s the treasurer’s job to invest those funds.

Cut 10 (10) “…the economy.” 

McKnight complimented current Treasurer John Schroder on his job performance and says he plans to mirror his tenure and his leadership role on the Bond Commission.

Cut 11 (11)  “…with there.”

Treasurer Schroder is not seeking re-election and is running for governor.

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Bad news for the Pelicans as All-Star forward Zion Williamson will miss several more weeks after he re-aggravated his right hamstring. Pelicans executive vice president David Griffin says Williamson was set to return soon, but re-injured himself at practice…

Cut 12 (13) “…hard to navigate.”

Williamson first suffered the injury on January 2nd and has missed 28 games this season. Zion missed all of last season, but still made the playoffs, so Griffin is confident the team can still play at a high level without their all-star…

Cut 13 (09) “…mentality means.” 

New Orleans is 12 and 16 in games without Williamson this season. They are 29-28 overall and in seventh place in the Western Conference. Williamson has played in 114 games and missed 169 since he was the first pick in the 2019 draft. Coach Willie Green says all they can ask from him is to work hard to get back…

Cut 14 (08)   “…the rehab”

New Orleans is at Oklahoma City tonight.

February is American Heart Month and heart disease is the leading cause of death in Louisiana. Do you know what your risk factors are? Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Want to eat healthy? LSU’s Pennington Center in Baton Rouge says “consider eating more potatoes.” Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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State Democratic Party chair Katie Bernhardt says she’s not running for governor after a TV spot resembling a campaign ad featured her. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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February is American Heart Month, a time to focus on how to improve your cardiovascular health. LSU Health New Orleans Cardiologist Dr. Frank Smart says the idea that chest and heart pain have to be on your left side and left arm to be considered an attack is not always true.

Cut 4 (06)  “…having a heart attack.”

Smart says to be mindful of recurring symptoms as an indicator of heart disease, especially when it happens with exercise or exertion. If so, talk to your physician, and if you have a family member who had a heart attack or stroke before the age of 60 for men and 65 for women you should also speak to a physician.

Cut 5 (09) “…do something.”

Smart says for example a 20-something female runner who has chest pain on their left side should mention it to her physician, whereas someone in their 60s who’s overweight with high blood pressure should act immediately.

But for women, Smart says they are more likely to exhibit atypical heart disease symptoms. Instead of complaining about chest pain, he says women are more likely to notice they are fatigued or complain they can’t do what they used to do a few months ago.

Smart says know the risk factors, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and family history.  There are treatments for blood pressure, and cholesterol, and to stop smoking.

Cut 6 (05)  “…your doctor.” 

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Louisiana and the United States.

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If you want to eat healthy, consider eating more potatoes. Many people avoid potatoes because it’s believed the starchy vegetable can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. But scientists at the LSU Pennington Biomedical Research Center  say they are largely misunderstood. Assistant Professor Candida Rebello says, when cooked correctly, ‘taters are a great source of potassium and fiber…:

Cut 7 (12) “…starch component.”

Rebello says their research study shows that potatoes do not negatively impact blood glucose levels. She says study participants actually lost weight while eating a potato-rich diet…:

Cut 8 (10)  “…in America.”

Participants in the study ate meals in which potatoes were used to replace some of the meat content. They reported feeling full faster; often not even cleaning their plate. Rebello says the data suggests that potatoes have been getting a bad dietary reputation…:

Cut 9 (08)  “…like I said: healthy.”

Rebello says – as with any kind of food – moderation is the key to maintaining good health and weight.

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Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon announces a 30-day application period is open for the Insure Louisiana Incentive Program. Donelon says the incentive program will offer matching grants to incentive new and existing insurance companies to write residential and commercial policies

Cut 10 (08)  “…64 parishes” 

Donelon says 12 insurance providers have expressed interest in the program that he believes will decrease the number of home and business owners who rely on Louisiana Citizens, which is raising rates by an average of 63 percent this year. Donelon says a similar program after hurricanes Katrina and Rita reduced the number of Citizens policies by 40-thousand…

Cut 11 (08)  “…they’re facing.”

Donelon encourages Louisiana homeowners who have Citizens or are unable to find affordable insurance to contact an insurance agent and ask for as many quotes as possible in the coming months. He says they are moving quickly to get new insurers writing residential and commercial policies in the coastal areas…

Cut 12 (05) “…expeditated basis.”

Donelon says participating insurance companies must meet solvency standards and the insurers will be also subject to enhanced solvency monitoring.

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Chair of the state Democratic Party, Katie Bernhardt tells The Advocate she’s not running for governor. And while her recent TV ad received widespread criticism from party members, La Politics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says she never declared her candidacy for any office in the ad, only that help was coming.

Cut 13 (11)  “…to run.”

Some party members saw Bernhardt’s ad as self-serving instead of promoting the party. Alford believes her announcement is indicative of something else.

Cut 14 (09)  “…for governor.”

Alford says that could be either Department of Transportation and Development Secretary Shawn Wilson or East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore.

But for Bernhardt, Alford says her poll to run for governor and TV ad, even though she never announced her candidacy, could continue to haunt her.

Cut 15 (06)  “…discuss.”

Alford says chairs of both the state’s Democratic and Republican parties have received pushback from members. Bernhardt for self-promotion and Louis Gervich for endorsing Jeff Landry before any other Republican announced their candidacy.

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The third-ranked LSU Lady Tigers were overmatched in their highly anticipated game against top-ranked South Carolina yesterday. The Gamecocks jumped out to a 16-point lead early in the first quarter and LSU never could recover and lost 88-64 at Colonial Life Arena. Coach Kim Mulkey says the game got off to a rough start…

Cut  16 (19)  “…big rebound” 

It was LSU’s first loss of the season and South Carolina has won 31 in a row. Mulkey now knows how her team stacks up against the best team in women’s basketball…

Cut 17 (19) “…as well” 

LSU is now 23-and-1 and in second place in the SEC. The Lady Tigers have four games left in the regular season and Mulkey doesn’t want Sunday’s loss to impact their game Thursday at home against Ole Miss or any of their remaining games…

Cut 18 (20) “…nothing more” 

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Six-foot-six right-hander Paul Skenes is expected to start on the mound when the top-ranked LSU baseball begins the 2023 season on Friday night. Skenes says one of his biggest strengths is his competitive desire…

Cut 19 (23) “…in here.”

Skenes played the last two seasons at Air Force. Last season he recorded a 2.96 ERA and 96 strikeouts in 85.2 innings in 15 starts. Skenes believes learning from LSU pitching coach Wes Johnson will only make him better

Cut 20 (17)  “… a huge blessing.” 

The LSU Board of Supervisors votes to add former women’s basketball coach Sue Gunter’s name to Dale Brown court at the PMAC. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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After blocking a Twitter user from her account, Monroe Senator Katrina Jackson faces a lawsuit. Brooke Thorington explains.

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

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The LSU Board of Supervisors voted today to rename the Dale Brown Court at the Maravich Assembly Center; adding former women’s basketball coach Sue Gunter’s name. Both coaches won over 400 games at LSU. Former Lady Tiger Delia Taylor urged the Board members to vote for the name change

Cut 3 (13) “…up others” 

Critics of the vote say by adding Gunter’s name to the court, they are taking away an honor from Coach Brown, who led the Tigers to two Finals Fours. Former LSU baseball and basketball player Ben McDonald suggested to the board to name the practice facility or the scoreboard after Gunter

Cut  4 (09)  “…another” 

Freelance writer Jeffrey Marx of Baton Rouge based on his own investigating reporting, political pressure has resulted in several Board members changing their minds and now wanting to add Gunter’s name to the court…

Cut 5 (10) “…conversations”

In September 2021, the LSU Board of Supervisors rejected a proposal to have the court named after both Brown and Gunter.

No one at the Board spoke on why there’s been a change of heart, but board member James Williams rejected the idea that someone is twisting their arm

Cut 6 (12)  “…what to do” 

Governor John Bel Edwards told the USA Today Network that Gunter’s accomplishments are worthy enough to have her name on the court too.

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Monroe Senator Katrina Jackson faces a lawsuit after blocking a Twitter user from commenting on her page. Tulane First Amendment Law Clinic Director Katie Schwartzmann says the courts consider the internet a public forum and when a public official blocks a constituent from commenting it’s a First Amendment violation.

Cut 7 (09)  “…that conversation.” 

Schwartzmann says the goal of the lawsuit is the prevent censorship of these types of discussions in the future.

Cut 8 (05)  “…moving forward.” 

In addition to the plaintiff, Schwartzmann says other users have also claimed that Senator Jackson has blocked them.

As a public official, Scwartzmann says Jackson signed up for debate and dialogue when she ran for office and over the past five years in similar cases, the precedent has been set that social media is a public forum and blocking a user from a public official’s page is a First Amendment violation.

Cut 9 (05) “…various contexts.”

Jackson released a comment that free speech is not a blank check and that no public official nor any internet user should be subjected to bullying or abusive language. She also said her Twitter account shows no record of the plaintiff by name.

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A Jefferson Parish lawmaker has filed legislation that would crack down on thieves who break into people’s cars, by stiffening their minimum sentence. Metairie Republican state Representative Laurie Schlegel says her House Bill 16 would impose stiffer penalties on persons who commit a string of burglaries or any burglary within a mile of any fair, festival, entertainment or sports event or parade…:

Cut 10 (06) “…for this behavior.” 

Schlegel brings the bill as the number of motor vehicle burglaries grows statewide, but especially in cities like New Orleans. At a recent Pelicans game, as many as 30 cars and trucks were broken into while folks were watching the event. She says there’s a real danger involved in such cases…:

Cut 11 (12)  “…trying to do here.”

Current law calls for sentencing of zero-to-12 years. Schlegel says her bill would add mandatory jail time with a conviction…:

Cut 12 (09) “…you’re goin’ to jail.”

Schlegel says convicted auto burglars would be assured of at least a year behind bars, which may be a sufficient deterrent. Her bill will be debated in the regular legislation session, which begins April 10^th.

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Kansas City Chiefs cornerback and Minden native, L’Jarius Sneed is expected to play in his second Super Bowl Sunday. Sneed’s Minden High School Coach Spencer Heard says watching the big game is even more fun when you have a personal connection.

Cut 13 (08) “…the occasion.” 

The former  LA Tech star has a knee injury but is expected to play.

Despite playing in the professional ranks, Heard says Sneed visits the Webster Parish city often to see family and friends and also spends time with elementary students in Minden.

Cut 14 (09)   “…person he is.”

Heard remembers Sneed fondly and says he started coaching at Minden during Sneed’s sophomore year. He says Sneed’s talent was clear and that he played both defense and offense in high school.

Cut 15 (08) “…the state.”

Sneed is one of five former Louisiana high school players playing in Super Bowl LVII (57). Chiefs’ safety Justin Reid played for Dutchtown High in Geismer, and running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire went to Catholic High in Baton Rouge. Eagles running back Boston Scott played at Zachary High and wide receiver DeVonta Smith attended Amite High School

The LSU Board of Supervisors is expected to vote tomorrow on a proposal to add the former women’s basketball coach Sue Gunter’s name to the basketball court in the Maravich Center. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (34)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A Jefferson Parish family of four is dead in an apparent murder-suicide this morning. More from Brooke Thorington…:

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

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The LSU Board of Supervisors is set to vote tomorrow on a proposal to add Sue Gunter’s name to the Dale Brown Court inside the Maravich Center. The idea has upset several people close to Brown who had the court named in his honor in 2021. Broadcaster Tim Brando of Shreveport says a vote to add Gunter’s name will stain Louisiana…

Cut 3 (10) “…great depression” 

In 2021, the LSU Board of Supervisors rejected a proposal to have Gunter’s name appear on the court next to Brown’s. But Brando says the Board has changed its mind, because Governor John Bel Edwards has gotten involved, because board member Mary Leach Werner is upset Gunter’s name is not on the court

Cut  4 (06)  “…happened here” 

Brown coached at LSU for 25 years, Gunter 22 years. Gunter, who passed away in 2005, won over 700-games. Brown won 448 games, four SEC titles and took the Tigers to the Final Four twice. He’s the only SEC Coach to make 15 straight NCAA Tournament appearances.

Brando says Werner opposes the idea of honoring the accomplishments of an older white man

Cut 5 (09) “…higher learning.”

Werner was a major financial contributor to Governor Edwards’ election campaigns. A statement from the governor says after reviewing the achievements of Brown and Gunter over the years, the governor believes her name certainly warrants inclusion in the name of the court.

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The Humane Society of Louisiana is once again helping horses purchased to ride in Mardi Gras parades find homes, so Carnival season isn’t their last. HSLA Director Jeff Dorson says when they learned that many of the horses were often sold for slaughter, they created the Mardi Gras Horses Adoption Program.

Cut 6 (12)  “…really well.” 

Since 2017 he says more than 70 horses have found new homes. Dorson says this is a small component of parade season that animal lovers look forward to and they want a horse that has the distinction of being a Mardi Gras horse.

Cut 7 (07)  “…really works.” 

Over the years horses have found homes in Mississippi, Oklahoma, and even Massachusetts. Dorson says even if you aren’t able to purchase a horse you can donate to the program.

Cut 8 (07)  “… appreciated.” 

You can find more information on their Facebook page at Humane Society of Louisiana’s Mardi Gras Horses Adoption Program.

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A family of four in Jefferson Parish is dead in what appears to be a murder-suicide. Jefferson Parish Sheriff Joe Lopinto says a call came in to 9-1-1 early this morning; giving the address in the city of Harvey, and offering a dire message…:

Cut 9 (09) “…we found, unfortunately.”

Deputies went to the address and found it in what Lopinto calls “deplorable condition.” Inside they found the bodies of an adult male, and adult female, and two young men ages 14 and 20. Lopinto says there is evidence the incident was, in fact, a case of murder-suicide…but are sorting through the crime scene to determine who exactly pulled the trigger…:

Cut 10 (09) “…for the parents.” 

The family dog was found alive in the back yard and taken to a shelter. As to a possible motive, Lopinto says the family had fallen upon extremely hard times…:

Cut 11 (08)  “…this morning.”

The investigation is ongoing. Lopinto says he’ll have updates and more is discovered. LRN has learned one victim was a former St. Charles Parish deputy. This shooting marks the second murder-suicide in less than 12 hours in Jefferson Parish. Two brothers are dead from an incident Wednesday in Marrero.

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U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg joined Governor John Bel Edwards and DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson this afternoon to officially announce the $150 million federal grant to go towards the Calcasieu River Bridge. Buttigieg (Buddha-judge) says he understands southwest Louisiana has heard several promises over the years for the bridge that never developed.

Cut 12 (07) “…funding does.”

In addition to the 70-year-old bridge’s deficiencies, Buttigieg says because the bridge narrows from six lanes to four it’s also one of the primary traffic jams in the U.S. which impacts the nation’s supply chain.

Cut 13 (12) “…this work.” 

In addition to the $150 million federal funds, Wilson says there’s even more money allocated for the project.

Cut 14 (12)   “…contribution.”

Buttigieg says the project will create more than 60,000 jobs also.

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Officials are surveying damage in Tangipahoa Parish after a tornado damaged as many as 30 mobile homes last night. Parish President Robby Miller says since the light of day they’ve come across even more residences in the town of Tangipahoa that were impacted by the twister.

Cut 15 (10) “…they shouldn’t”

Miller says even though some homes had significant damage, it’s fortunate no one was seriously hurt.

Cut  16 (12)  “…minor injuries.”

Miller asked the public to keep those who were impacted in their prayers. Assessments by the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness are ongoing along with those from parish officials and the Red Cross.

An Opelousas man has been arrested in connection with the burglary of a dozen squirrel monkeys from a Broussard zoo last month. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Free speech advocates are irked by Attorney General Jeff Landry’s efforts to keep adult material in public libraries out of the reach of kids. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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More than 100,000 Tradespeople are now using BoomNation to connect with other skilled workers, showcase their credentials, and find jobs. Kace Kieschnick spoke with Co-CEO Brent Falvin on the  platform has grown exponentially…

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick” 

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Police have arrested a man in connection with the burglary of a dozen squirrel monkeys last month from a Lafayette Parish zoo. Broussard PD Chief Vance Olivier says they’ve arrested 61-year-old Joseph Randell of Opelousas.

Cut 4 (10)  “…Correctional Center.”

Despite an arrest, the 12 monkeys were not recovered.

On January 29^th Broussard Police responded to a report of a burglary at Zoosiana in which several squirrel monkeys were taken from their habitat. Olivier limited his comments because it’s an ongoing investigation and says there could be more arrests.

A day after the Zoosiana burglary two emperor tamarin monkeys were stolen from a Dallas Zoo.   24-year-old Davion Irvin was arrested last week in connection with that burglary. Olivier says they have not ruled out that the two could be connected.

Cut 5 (05) “…theft as well.”

As for a motive in the Zoosiana burglary Olivier says it appears to be monetary value.

Cut 6 (06)  “…find out.” 

Randell faces burglary charges and 12 counts of Cruelty to Animals.

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Crime Stoppers of North Delta will pay up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of 18-year-old Isszvian Webb who is considered extremely dangerous. Monroe Police Chief Vic Zordan says Webb is wanted for three counts of attempted first-degree murder after a shooting at three officers Sunday multiple times with an AR-15-style rifle.

Cut 7 (11) “…going back.”

Zordan says Webb has evaded authorities for about a year after escaping from Green Oaks Juvenile Detention Center and the mugshot they have of Zordan is over a year old.

Cut 8 (05)  “…really does.”

Zordan says they are asking for the public’s help to locate Webb and they are on high alert and have notified law enforcement in the area to approach Webb with extreme caution.

Cut 9 (07)  “…any problems.”

If you have any information, you’re asked to call the Monroe Police Department or Crime Stoppers of North Delta.

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A Louisiana free speech advocacy group is concerned about Attorney General Jeff Landry’s efforts to curb what kids can access at public libraries. Landry unveiled his office’s Protecting Innocence Report; containing information and laying out guidelines for libraries to assure kids cannot access adult materials. Lynette Mejia, with Louisiana Citizens Against Censorship, says it is primarily up to parents to monitor what their kids read and see…:

Cut 10 (10)  “…legislation for that.”

Mejia (pronounced “meh-HEE-uh”) says most all libraries have tiered lending systems in place to prevent minors from viewing borrowing adult literature, and have adult materials out of their reach. She says Landry is creating “a solution in search of a problem”…:

Cut 11 (09)  “…to campaign on.”

Turkey Creek state Senator Heather Cloud has filed a bill that would require libraries to assure children cannot see or borrow adult materials. Mejia says that is censorship and not necessary, but Landry says no one intends to censor anything…:

Cut 12 (07) “…of children.”

Landry asks critics to download the report from his website, and read it…then decide for one’s self…:

Cut 13 (08)  “…for all children.”

Report is online at “AGJeffLandry.com”

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BoomNation announces more than 100,000 skilled workers are using the website to help connect with other tradespeople and find jobs. BoomNation connects tradespeople and employers and allows workers to showcase their skills and credentials. Co-CEO Brent Flavin says BoomNation provides a unique opportunity for skilled workers…

Cut 14 (14)  “…getting started.”

The Lake Charles native said that the skilled worker industry is one that really hasn’t changed since the 18^th century. Flavin hopes that his “LinkedIn for Blue Collar will help to innovate an outdated industry…

Cut 15 (12)  “…absolutely deserve.”

BoomNation has been doing just that…booming. With over 100,000 users, the platform has a cumulative year-to-year increase of over 457%. Flavin says the platform has also been effective in finding people jobs…

Cut  16 (12)  “…January 2023.” 

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The Louisiana Tech Baseball team are preseason favorites to win the Conference USA for the first time in school history. The Bulldogs won the conference tournament championship last year after finishing second in the regular season. Coach Lane Burroughs says they are still playing with a chip on their shoulder…

Cut 17 (16) “…feel about it.” 

The LA Tech baseball program has rebuilt and redefined itself under Burroughs, literally. The Bulldogs exploded onto the national stage in 2021 in their first season in their new stadium and hosted a super regional for the first time in program history. Burroughs says they’ve worked to build a culture of success and resilience exactly as he envisioned when he first arrived in Ruston…

Cut 18 (18) “…in that process.” 

Conference USA will see the most changes of any Division I conference over the next few years with Marshall, Old Dominion, and Southern Miss having already left for the Sun-Belt. Southern Miss boasted one of the strongest baseball programs in the conference, but Burroughs believes the league won’t see a drop-off in competition…

Cut 19 (17) “…I really do.”

Three suspected overdose deaths in a 24-hour period in St. Tammany Parish have authorities concerned. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (34)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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An East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s deputy – lauded as a hero last month – will be Senator Bill Cassidy’s guest at the State of the Union address Tuesday in D.C…:

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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In a 24-hour period over the weekend, three men in their 30s died from suspected drug overdoses in St. Tammany Parish. Coroner Dr. Charles Preston says while toxicology results will take a few weeks, investigators were able to field test one of the victim’s medication and it was positive for Fentanyl.

Cut 3 (12) “…I’m concerned.” 

The victims were a 39-year-old man in Bush, a 34-year-old man in Pearl River and a 37-year-old man in Slidell.

Preston says that while Louisiana is not immune to the Fentanyl problem the rest of the country is facing, he says it’s unusual to see a constellation, this close together of…

Cut  4 (08)  “…most likely Fentanyl.” 

Preston says while he’s no expert on the importation and dissemination of illegal drugs, the likelihood is that the three overdoses were from a single source.

Cut 5 (12) “…in death.”

Preston urges those with addiction issues to call 9-8-8 for resources and to find treatment. He also encourages drug users to have Narcan on hand because it can often reverse an opioid overdose.

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An East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s deputy, who saved a car crash victim’s life last month, will be Senator Bill Cassidy’s guest at this year’s State of the Union speech. Will Bankston, an EBRSO Detective, was off duty and driving through Baton Rouge, when he saw the remains of half of a car on a bridge. He stopped and saw the front half over the side – in the water below – with the driver still inside…:

Cut 6 (11)  “…breathing again.” 

That happened January 22^nd and the man he saved is on the way to recovery. Bankston doesn’t consider himself a hero, because what he did is all within his law enforcement / first responder training. He says He was contacted a few days ago by Senator Cassidy’s office…:

Cut 7 (11)  “…have imagine, honestly.” 

Bankston will be Cassidy’s special guest in the Capitol tomorrow night, for President Biden’s State of the Union address at 8 pm central time. He says he leaves today for what will be his first-ever trip to Washington DC…:

Cut 8 (09)  “…State of the Union.” 

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State Police is investigating an officer-involved shooting that took place at an apartment complex in Shreveport on Friday night. The Caddo Parish Coroner’s Office has identified the deceased male as 43-year-old Alonzo Bagley. Shreveport City Councilwoman Tabatha Taylor says the incident occurred in her district

Cut 9 (10) “…our community” 

Authorities have released very few details. Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith promises a thorough investigation…

Cut 10 (13) “…will take place” 

No Shreveport Police officers were injured during the incident. Smith says his heart goes out to the Bagley family…

Cut 11 (11)  “…in Shreveport”

Smith announced on Monday afternoon that 23-year-old officer Alexander Tyler has been put on administrative leave as a result of Friday’s fatal shooting.

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LSU–Alexandria announces record enrollment for the spring semester. Director of Admissions Joshua Perrodin says they have 3992 students enrolled this semester, which is the biggest spring class in LSUA history…:

Cut 12 (10) “…at the university.”

At just under 4000 students, the enrollment reflects the largest spring-to-spring increase in students LSUA has ever seen; nearly 13-percent. Perrodin credits the school’s affordability, plus innovative degree programs, award-winning faculty and a vibrant campus. He says it’s a great place to get a four-year degree or for a students to begin their college careers…:

Cut 13 (07) “…to other opportunities.” 

Perrodin says aggressive recruiting also helped LSA achieve the milestone. He says they will not rest on their laurels either…:

Cut 14 (07)   “..by 2025.”

A Louisiana National Guard unit is preparing to deploy to the Middle East, on a classified support mission. More from Jeff Palermo…:

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’ll want to be in Thibodaux Saturday to attend a festival dedicated to the state’s favorite pastry. Brooke Thorington has the ingredients

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

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U-S Senator John Kennedy wants Louisiana to develop a new methodology to grade public schools. Kennedy points to the grades that the state’s high schools have received…

Cut 3 (07) “…they are not” 

The state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education has discussed changing Louisiana’s accountability system, but proposed changes have faced criticism from school boards, superintendents, principals, and teachers.  Kennedy says 70 percent of the state’s high schools have received A and B grades, but in reality, we know many of these schools do not deserve such a high grade…

Cut  4 (11)  “…new system.” 

Kennedy made his comments on the floor of the U.S. Senate. He didn’t offer any specifics on how schools should be graded, but expressed the importance of it because it’s vital to the future of Louisiana

Cut 5 (10) “…creating tomorrow”

A BESE committee has recommended that a high school should not be awarded to a student who receives a diploma without passing an Advancement Placement course or didn’t take any dual enrollment classes. That proposal received significant pushback.

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The Louisiana National Guard held a deployment ceremony Friday in New Orleans for the 140-plus soldiers of the 3673 Support Maintenance Company (part of the 139th Regional Support Group.) They will provide support to the Army’s Operation Spartan Shield. The event was at the World War II Museum in the Crescent City. Captain Mitchel Dougherty is the company Commander…:

Cut 6 (08)  “…use this venue.” 

The “3-6-7-3” is a combat support unit; tasked with keeping military vehicles and material in working order. Battalion Commander Lt. Colonel Ira Jones says their role is of utmost importance…:

Cut 7 (08)  “…their mission is.” 

Operation Spartan Shield is in the Middle East, but exactly where the Louisiana Guardsmen and women are headed is classified. The 3673^rd has not been deployed overseas since the Gulf War in the early 1990’s. Col. Jones says the deployment will mean soldiers will be out of the country for quite a while…:

Cut 8 (07)  “…to their families.” 

Jones says the Guardsmen will be back home in about a year.

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If you’re a King Cake connoisseur there’s an inaugural festival cooked up just for you on Saturday. It’s the Lafourche Education Foundation’s Bayou King Cake Festival. Thibodaux Mayor Kevin Clement says attendees can sample almost two dozen cakes and they have five tickets each to cast their vote.

Cut 9 (10) “…choice winner.” 

The event kicks off at 1:30 in downtown Thibodeaux with a kid’s parade. Five marching bands will accompany kids riding in wagons.

Cut 10 (09) “…pretty good.” 

The festival has plenty of activities for kids, like face painting, a coloring booth, and music. Clement says it’s going to be a memorable event to kick off their carnival season and it’s all for a great cause the Lafourche Parish Education Foundation.

Cut 11 (11)  “…quite remarkable.”

The winning King Cake will be announced at 5:30 and they’ll receive bragging and a billboard. Advance tickets are $10 and $15 at the event.

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State lawmakers have approved legislation that sets up a 45-million dollar incentive fund that will be used to bring more insurance companies to Louisiana that will offer homeowners coverage. Senate Insurance Chairman Kirk Talbot says the goal is to reduce the number of Citizens Property Insurance policyholders who face a 63-percent rate hike this year

Cut 12 (07) “…need it”

The bill passed on a 37-to-1 vote in the Senate on Friday. Bossier City Senator Barrow Peacock was the lone no vote as he questioned whether the incentive fund would actually lead to more insurers who can supply homeowners coverage…

Cut 13 (10) “…hurricane season starts” 

Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt says this is not the silver bullet to Louisiana’s insurance crisis, but it’s a first step and lawmakers will need to continue to address the problem even more in the regular session that starts in April…

Cut 14 (10)   “..be successful”

Congressman Steve Scalise and U.S. House Republicans pass a bill to bring federal employees back to the office. Jeff Palermo has more…:

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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A $1,300 reward is being offered for the safe return of a Shar Pei puppy that was stolen in New Orleans Monday. Brooke Thorington has more

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

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District 1 Congressman and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise led colleagues in passing a bill requiring federal workers to return to the office. It’s dubbed the “SHOW UP Act”; an acronym for Stopping Home Office Work’s Unproductive Problems. On the House floor, Scalise tells members the government should be held to the same standard as taxpayers…:

Cut 3 (09) “…get the job done.” 

Scalise says Americans have largely gone back to their workplaces after the pandemic, and they wonder why the federal government is still operating in lockdown mode. He cites the Veterans Administration as an example of the so-called “unproductive problems”…:

Cut  4 (12)  “…that hurts people.” 

Scalise says un-staffed government offices is causing come to wait a year or more for tax refund checks, wait 6 months to renew a passport and other problems. He says taxpayers are growing impatient with the government they pay for…:

Cut 5 (10) “…go back to work.”

The bill passed the House. Whether the Democrat-controlled Senate will even take it up for discussion is unknown.

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A Hahnville man will spend at least eight years in prison for his role in a July 4^th 2020 boating fatality in St. Charles Parish. State Wildlife and Fisheries spokesperson Adam Einck says 25-year-old Kevin Comardelle was driving a boat when it collided with another boat.

Cut 6 (09)  “…he was intoxicated.” 

The victim who died was 36-year-old Audrey Higgins of Luling, she was a passenger in the other vessel and several other passengers received significant injuries.

Einck says Comardelle was convicted of vehicular homicide and four counts of first-degree vehicular negligent injuring.

Cut 7 (09)  “…of the vessel.” 

Comardelle will be on probation for five years following his prison sentence, must comply with an alcohol monitoring program, and is subject to restitution to the victims. Einck says the crash happened at night on Bayou Des Allemands.

Cut 8 (04)  “…prevented.” 

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After a Shar Pei puppy was stolen from a Lakeview home in New Orleans Monday, a $1300 reward is being offered for its safe return. Humane Society of Louisiana Director Jeff Dorson says UNO student Scott Elston is devasted over the theft of his dog.

Cut 9 (10) “…called Toby.” 

Shar Peis are known for their wrinkles and blue tongues.

Dorson says unfortunately there’s not a clear image of the suspects from home security systems in the neighborhood.

Cut 10 (11) “…they’re doing.” 

The Humane Society and Elston have pledged $500 each for a reward along with $300 from an anonymous donor.  Artwork and electronics were also stolen from the home but Elston’s main concern is his puppy, Toby. Dorson says the burglary happened while Elston was in class.

Cut 11 (09)  “…Shar Pei.”

If you have any information you’re asked to call HSLA at 1-888-6-HUMANE.

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Thirty-one-year-old Louis Foret of Morgan City has received a life sentence after admitting to fatally shooting a Thibodaux man multiple times two years ago. Lafourche Parish District Attorney spokesperson David Melancon says Foret entered the guilty plea as his trial was set to begin

Cut 12 (10) “…pleading guilty”

Melancon says Foret killed his friend Chance Benoit at his home on a February night in 2021

Cut 13 (10) “…shot dead” 

Melancon says investigators have determined that Foret and Benoit were talking inside Benoit’s home when Foret began assaulting the victim and as the attack progressed, Foret shot him

Cut 14 (11)   “..hung up the phone.”

Second degree murder carries a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of probation, parole or suspension of sentence.

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One of the three men accused in the January 2022 fatal shooting death of Deven Brooks has pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. Rapides Parish Assistant District Attorney Lea Hall says 22-year-old Terrance Lavalais entered the guilty during jury selection

Cut 15 (10) “… that time”

Brooks’ body was found on the edge of the Red River in Alexandria in January 2022. Police say the 27-year-old was kidnapped as he was bound with cable, zip ties and duct tape.

Two others are also charged with second degree murder, Jamaria Randle and Tremaine Veal. Hall says their trials are scheduled to begin over the next two weeks

Cut  16 (11)  “…this victim”

Police believe the three men arrested in Brooks’ death were trying to get money out of him.

A Winnfield lawmaker says, instead of paying property insurers to come to Louisiana, why not pay homeowners to make their roofs hurricane-proof…?

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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If you’re a fan of Antiques Roadshow, listen up because the 20-time Emmy Award-winning series is coming to Baton Rouge. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Louisiana House has approved a plan that creates a 45-million dollar incentive fund to attract more private insurers to the state. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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As lawmakers debate a plan to help alleviate soaring property insurance costs and availability, there is growing support for a plan to incentivize homeowners to hurricane-proof their roofs and lower their coverage costs. Winnfield Representative Jack McFarland supports the idea of the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program…:

Cut 4 (11)  “…their insurance premiums.”

In essence, the program would give homeowners grants of up to $10-thousand (paid from a special fund) to retrofit their home’s roof so it is capable of withstanding 150-mile-an-hour winds. McFarland says that would be a metal roof in many cases, but there are many other ways to storm-harden a roof, such as…:

Cut 5 (14) “…hold the roof down.”

McFarland says the legislature voted to create the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program last year but did not create solid funding for it. He says the Department of Insurance and fellow lawmakers are committed to funding the program in the regular session that starts in April. He says it is a proven plan to lower coverage costs for homeowners…:

Cut 6 (09)  “…and fortifying.” 

McFarland wants any unused cash from the $5-million Insure Louisiana Incentive Fund to be put into the fortification fund.

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Have you ever watched Antiques Roadshow and thought to yourself I wonder what that vase I inherited is worth? Well, here’s your chance, the beloved PBS series will be in Baton Rouge on May 2^nd and Roadshow producer Marsha Bemko says your odds of winning tickets are pretty good.

Cut 7 (05) “…getting in here.”

Two-thousand pairs of tickets will be issued and the deadline to register is March 13^th. For more information visit pbs.org/roadshowtickets.

Ticketholders will be able to bring two items to be appraised for free. Bemko says it’s an opportunity to have experts evaluate your treasures, so bring in something that you can’t look up on the internet.

Cut 8 (09)  “…came in.”

Bemko says appraisers will tell participants where the item was made, a little history about it, and its value. But when experts eye something remarkable the experience is quite different.

Cut 9 (06)  “…cameras are rolling.”

It’s been ten years since Antiques Roadshow has been in Baton Rouge and Bemko says they are looking forward to what treasurers they’ll discover in the capital city. The last time the Emmy Award-winning program was in Louisiana was in 2017 in New Orleans.

The deadline to register for tickets is March 13^th and participants will be notified in mid-April if they’ve won tickets.

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The 2022 Louisiana Economic Development Annual Report says the state topped $20 billion in economic investment for a second consecutive year. LED Secretary Don Pierson says it was a great year because the state leveraged its unique business advantages, sector diversity, and support for climate action.

Cut 10 (09)  “…in 24 parishes.”

And it’s not just the metro areas that have seen growth, Pierson says he’s also proud of the work they’ve done in rural areas of the state.

Cut 11 (12)  “…larger companies.”

While touting their 2022 success, Pierson says the state is poised for additional expansion, innovation, and the energy transition Louisiana is part of.

Cut 12 (10) “…for Louisiana.”

Pierson says whenever new companies locate or expand in the Bayou State it’s a ripple effect and it only improves the local economy.

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The Louisiana House has approved legislation that puts 45-million dollars in a fund to award grants to insurance companies who provide homeowners coverage. The measure passed on a 90-8 vote. Baton Rouge Representative Edmond Jordan voted against it as he’s skeptical the plan will lead to a more affordable insurance market

Cut 13 (13)  “….make sense.”

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon is confident the incentive fund can bring eight to ten new private insurers to the state leading to the reduction of 40-thousand policyholders who rely on Citizens Insurance, which is increasing rates by an average of 63 percent this year.

Plaquemine Representative Chad Brown also has concerns about the plan and wishes Donelon provided more options for state lawmakers to consider in this special session

Cut 14 (11)  “…be more competitive”

The Incentive fund legislation will be discussed in the Senate starting today. Meanwhile, Houma Representative Beryl Amedee says the Louisiana Legislature can propose additional ideas for the regular session that begins in April.

Cut 15 (09)  “…let’s go.”

A two-month-long regular session begins April 10th.

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La Tech hosts one of the better teams in Conference USA tonight as the Bulldogs battle the Rice Owls at the Thomas Assembly Center. Rice is 15-6 overall, 6-4 in league play while Tech is 5-and-6 in conference action. The Bulldogs are coming off a win at UTSA as Isaiah Crawford scored 19 points. Bulldogs Coach Talvin Hester hopes to see more good play from Crawford…

Cut  16 (15)  “..successful”. 

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ULM opens a three-game homestand tonight as they host Coastal Carolina. The Warhawks are 6-4 in the Sun Belt, while Coastal is 4-and-6, but ULM Coach Keith Richard says it should be a good matchup…

Cut 17 (17) “…two one-point games.” 

Coastal Carolina has four players in double figures and they are one of the top rebounding teams in the Sun Belt.

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The Ragin Cajuns men’s basketball team puts their eight-game winning streak on the line tonight as they take on Texas State in the Cajundome. The Bobcats are 4-and-6 in Sun Belt play, and 11-and-12 overall and Coach Bob Marlin says they have a better record on the road than at home…

Cut 18 (13) “…on Thursday” 

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According to Rivals-dot-com, the Ragin Cajuns had the best recruiting class in the Sun Belt as they added four more guys to their 2023 class. Two of the newest additions are from the River Parishes, including the Class 4A Offensive Player of the Year, Lutcher Quarterback D’Wanye Winnfield. Cajuns Coach Michael Desormeaux calls Winnfield a gritty player who is a proven winner…

Cut 19 (18) “..for sure”

The Cajuns also signed cornerback Glenn Brown, who is a transfer from Southern. Brown is a graduate of St. James High School and appeared in 36 games for the Southern Jaguars. Desormeaux says they are excited to have Brown in Lafayette

Cut 20 (22)  “…need to”