It’s a big day for NASA’s Michoud Assembly facility in New Orleans as the rocket factory played a significant role in the construction of Artemis Two, which is headed to the moon. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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A proposed constitutional amendment limiting governors to two total terms takes its next step on its journey towards the ballot. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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NASA is launching a spaceship to the moon today and NASA’s Michoud Assembly facility in New Orleans played a major role in the Artemis II mission. NASA spokesperson Craig Betbeze says both of Artemis II’s propellant tanks were built at the rocket factory in New Orleans east…

Cut 3 (12) “…into orbit.”

The Artemis II crew has four astronauts and they will loop around the moon. It’s the first crewed lunar mission since 1972. The astronauts will be in what’s called the Orion Crew Module, which was designed by NASA and Lockheed Martin. Betbeze says about two-thousand workers at Lockheed had a role in the construction of this spaceship…

Cut 4 (07) “…second to none.”

For more than 60 years, NASA’s Michoud Assembly Facility in New Orleans and it’s known as “America’s rocket factory.” The government-owned manufacturing facility is one of the largest in the world. When NASA had the Space Shuttle, its external tank was built at Michoud. Betbeze says when the Space Shuttle was retired in 2010, the factory transitioned to the Artemis program…

Cut 5 (10) “…pickup trucks.”

In 2028, NASA plans on putting astronauts back on the moon and the spacecraft that will take them their will have many of its essential components built at Michoud.

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A proposed constitutional amendment to limit governors to two terms takes the next step in the legislature. Chalmette Representative Mike Bayham’s bill passed in the House Governmental Affairs Committee on a vote of 11-to-2. Under current law, governors who serve two terms can run for re-election after sitting out for four years. Bayham says former governors start with an unfair advantage.

Cut 6 (06) “…in the race.”

Bayham says that unfair advantage is one of the reasons why it took a future governor, Kathleen Blanco, longer to be elected governor, noting that she originally ran for governor in 1991.

Cut 7 (07) “…ending her campaign.”

In 1991, Edwards had served three non-consecutive terms and had been out of office four years after being unseated by Buddy Roemer. That year, he flipped the script and unseated Roemer in the primary and beat David Duke in a runoff that garnered national attention to secure his fourth – and ultimately final – term.

New Orleans Representative Delisha Boyd was one of the two on the committee who voted “no.” She said it shouldn’t be up to statute to decide who gets elected governor and who doesn’t. 

Cut 8 (09) “…vote for him.”

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A state senator’s quest to prevent additional school districts from adopting four-day school weeks advances to the House. Franklinton Senator Beth Mizell’s bill passed the State Senate on a vote of 35-to-one, with Eddie Lambert of Gonzales casting the lone “no” vote. Mizell says she filed a bill last year mandating a five-day school week; at that time, there were six districts with four-day weeks.

Cut 9 (12)  “…four-day school weeks.”

Mizell says four-day school weeks create logistical problems, including in her own district.

Cut 10 (10) “…nothing to eat.”

Mizell says she’s also concerned about the effects a four-day school week will have on academic achievement, especially with the state showing tremendous improvement in recent years.

Cut 11 (14) “…of their day.”

There are exceptions in Mizell’s bill – districts with a performance score of “A” from the Department of Education will be allowed to pursue a four-day week if they choose to, and those already on four-day weeks can continue with that arrangement.

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A bill that would prohibit the use of eminent domain for carbon capture storage and pipeline projects was rejected by the House Natural Resources Committee on a vote of 12 to 7. Lawmakers approved legislation in 2020 that gave the government the power to use eminent domain for carbon capture and Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil and Gas Association president Tommy Faucheux says you can’t turn back now…

Cut 12 (12) “…to invest.”

According to the Environmental Integrity Project, Louisiana leads the nation with 65 planned carbon capture projects.

The technology captures carbon dioxide produced by industrial factories and then it’s stored underground into large storage tanks.

Pineville Representative Mike Johnson spoke passionately in front of the House Natural Resources Committee about his bill that would put the power back with the property owner

Cut 13 (09) “…in the ground.”

New Orleans Attorney Lauren Mastio spoke in opposition to Johnson’s bill…

Cut 14 (12) “…legal necessity.”

Johnson argues that eminent domain should only be used for public purposes, like building a new road, a school or flood protection. He says eminent domain should not be used to benefit private industry and claims its against the state constitution…

Cut 15 (10) “…our constitution.”

With hurricane season now just two months away, insurance companies are urging you to consider putting on a fortified roof. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Entergy Louisiana will build an additional seven new natural-gas fueled power plants to supply the energy needed for Meta’s massive data center its building in Richland Parish. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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New LSU coach Will Wade has already brought excitement back to the men’s basketball program. Andre Champagne has more on what Wade had to say at an entertaining introductory press conference.

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

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An effort to move Louisiana to a centralized sales tax system is dead for the session. Lafayette Representative Josh Carlson brought his legislation up for discussion in the House Ways and Means Committee and made the argument that it is difficult for small business owners in particular, to deal with multiple tax collectors.

Cut 4 (09) “…it more efficiently.”

Carlson voluntarily withdrew the bill for consideration because of opposition from local governments who are concerned that a centralized sales tax system run by the state would result in fewer tax dollars for local services. Carlson argues they are already missing out on tax revenue, especially from small out of state online retailers.

Cut 5 (09) “…of the complexity.”

Monroe Representative Michael Echols told Carlson that when he brings his bill back up for another vote, there needs to be a mechanism in the legislation to make sure local governments do not lose out on revenue.

Cut 6 (08) “…from these collections.”

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With hurricane season just two months away, insurance brokers are urging you to consider putting a fortified roof on your home. Beth Swanson, an analyst with insurance comparison website The Zebra, notes that starting July 1st, insurers will be required to give discounts for homes with fortified roofs; and depending on where you live and the level of fortification, those discounts can be substantial.

Cut 7 (08) “…that they can.”

Swanson says even if your roof doesn’t rise to the level of basic fortification, you can still get a discount on your homeowners insurance if you use certain materials in building your roof.

Cut 8 (09) “…policy for that.”

Swanson says once you put a fortified roof on your house, your insurance company will ensure that you will always have a fortified roof on your house.

Cut 9 (11)  “…to fortified standards.”

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Entergy Louisiana has reached an agreement with Meta to build seven new natural gas-powered plants, plus new transmission lines and nuclear power updates, so that there’s enough electricity to power the massive A-I data center under construction in Richland Parish. Entergy President and CEO Phillip May says the agreement will help keep electricity rates affordable.

Cut 10 (12) “…top of that.”

There are concerns that Meta’s need for a huge amount of power will raise rates for utility customers. May says that will not be the case, and the technology giant is taking steps to make sure low income individuals can pay their bills.

Cut 11 (14) “…provide them assistance.”

May says Meta is also investing 140-million dollars for energy efficiency initiatives for vulnerable customers and providing support for additional solar power plants. May says the project represents a significant opportunity to strengthen grid reliability.

Cut 12 (10) “…of this contract.”

When the Meta project was first announced, Entergy said it would build two natural gas turbines and a third power plant in the Baton Rouge area. Plans to build seven more natural gas powered plants are on top of the original plans.

The Public Service Commission still has to approve this plan for new gas and solar plants.

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The House Civil Law Committee advances a bill that would require both people in an in-person conversation to know if they are being recorded. Metairie Representative Laurie Schlegel says there’s been a growing trend in which influencers wearing smart glasses approach women and record them without their knowledge, and those clips end up getting posted onto social media.

Cut 13 (11)  “…broadcast to millions.”

Schlegel says this bill is intended to protect those who do not expect to be recorded while in public, so there are exceptions for those who have no reasonable expectation of privacy, such as elected officials or law enforcement officers.

Cut 14 (11) “…and law enforcement.”

Schlegel says if her bill becomes law, those who violate it would not only face criminal charges, but they would also open themselves up to substantial civil penalties.

Cut 15 (07) “…a civil action.”

There are also exceptions for public meetings, emergencies, or situations where footage could capture evidence of a crime.

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Saints head coach Kellen Moore spoke to the media at the 2026 NFL owners meeting yesterday, addressing Alvin Kamara’s future for the first time since New Orleans signed Travis Etienne (AY-chan). Moore says he expects Kamara to remain in the running back room in 2026 and believes the entire group of backs can complement each other well.

Cut 16 (10) “…develop this team.”

Another major topic for the Saints this offseason is whether they will extend wide receiver Chris Olave to keep him in New Orleans long-term. Moore says the front office is engaged in ongoing conversations with Olave, noting that several factors go into negotiating a long-term deal.

Cut 17 (16)  “…about his future.

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Will Wade was formally introduced as LSU’s new men’s basketball coach during an entertaining press conference yesterday. Wade says strong alignment and prior working relationships with current LSU president Wade Rousse and incoming senior deputy AD Heath Stroyer will help him build on the success he had at McNeese and elevate it in Baton Rouge.

Cut 18 (17)  “…a national force.” 

Wade says his teams at LSU will have a dedicated identity.

Cut 19 (09) “…have down here.”

Wade left North Carolina State after just one season in Raleigh. He says he stopped worrying about public perception long ago and is now embracing the “villain” role in college basketball after making the move to return to Baton Rouge.

Cut 20 (11) “…mistake about that.”

Wade said that he plans to attack the transfer portal when it opens April 6th.

LSU-Alexandria will soon offer three-year bachelor’s degree programs. Joe Gallinaro reports.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Joe Gallinaro.”

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Will Wade is back and intends to quickly transform the LSU men’s basketball program into a winner. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Coming soon to LSU Alexandria – three-year bachelor’s degree programs. This, after the Board of Regents approved the state’s first accelerated bachelor’s degree programs for specialized workforce-focused degrees. Liz Beard, the vice chancellor of academic affairs at LSU-A, says these new programs, which will initially be offered in two fields, still combine a comprehensive general education curriculum with a specialized curriculum like most other degree programs.

Cut 3 (11) “…or three years.”

Beard says these accelerated degree programs are in high-demand fields, allowing LSU-A to graduate students faster so that they can fill those jobs faster.

Cut 4 (08) “…pharmaceuticals, biotech.”

Beard says one of the first two accelerated bachelor’s degree programs at LSU-A are in information technology and in bioinformatics. (Cut is of Beard talking about bioinformatics)

Cut 5 (13) “…well with that.”

The new three-year accelerated degree programs are slated to begin as early as this fall.

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser opposes an effort to name a new I-10 Mississippi River bridge in the Baton Rouge area after President Donald Trump. Nungesser says he has a problem with naming a public structure after a living official…

Cut 6 (12) “…in Baton Rouge.”

Nungesser made this comment during an interview with Jim Engster on “Talk Louisiana” on WRKF in Baton Rouge.

Monroe Representative Michael Echols is the author of the House-approved bill that is awaiting debate in the Senate. Echols says if Louisiana passes a law that says the new Mississippi River Bridge will be named after the current president, it raises the chances that the federal government will fully fund the bridge. Despite Echols reasoning, Nungesser does not like the idea…

Cut 7 (07) “…not in favor of it.”

The proposal passed the House on a 68-26 vote. It includes an amendment that says if the federal government does not pay for most of the cost of the projected three-billion dollar bridge, it will not be named after the current president. Nungesser believes the proposal is a way for the author to get attention for his congressional campaign…

Cut 8 (10) “…be doing.”

There is a state law that says naming public buildings in honor of a living person is prohibited. But Echols says you can still pass a law mandating that a public building or structure can be named after a living official.

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A Gretna representative’s bill seeking to make it easier to cancel unwanted subscriptions advances to the full House. Vincent Cox’s “click to cancel” bill passed unanimously in the House Commerce Committee this morning. Cox says it’s often an unnecessarily tedious process to cancel subscriptions.

Cut 9 (10)  “…click to cancel.”

Cox says he’s heard from many frustrated constituents on this issue, including some who just give up and end up paying the monthly subscription fee for something they don’t use.

Cut 10 (11) “…out of it.”

During discussion, it was brought up that there could be issues with state-to-state reciprocity, such as when someone downloads a subscription app in a different state and looks to cancel it in Louisiana. Peter Robins-Brown, the executive director of Louisiana Progress, says he knows that can be tricky and there’s no easy solution to it, but he hopes this bill can be one step towards more broad legislation.

Cut 11 (12) “…framework on this.”

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Former LSU coach Will Wade was re-introduced today as the new head men’s basketball coach. “The General” received a warm welcome back from university officials and the hundreds of Tiger fans in attendance at the Maravich Center. Wade, who led LSU to three NCAA Tournament appearances in five seasons, wants to do even bigger things the second time around…

Cut 12 (12) “…make history.”

Wade was fired in 2022 for committing NCAA recruiting violations. He rebuilt his career by winning two Southland Conference Championships at McNeese and just took North Carolina State to the NCAA Tournament. Wade says he’s not looking back; he’s looking forward to winning a lot of games at LSU…

Cut 13 (10) “…(cheering)”

Wade leaves North Carolina State after one season. He says he returned because of familiarity and his love for the state and SU….

Cut 14 (09) “…every night.”

Wade will begin building next year’s roster when the transfer portal window opens on April 7^th.

The House Ways and Means Committee is expected to debate today whether Louisiana should have a centralized sales tax collection. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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A state representative has a plan to boost teacher pay to the regional average. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The LSU women’s basketball team’s season ended earlier than most had expected, but Kim Mulkey says her coaching career is not over. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Today the House Ways and Means Committee will discuss a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow the state to implement a centralized system for collecting local sales and use taxes. The Tax Foundation says the proposal is sound tax policy. Manish Batt (Bot) is the Vice President of State Tax Policy at the Tax Foundation…

Cut 4 (11) “…sales taxes.”

Bhatt says Louisiana remains a national outlier in lacking central collection and administration of its sales taxes. But the Police Jury Association of Louisiana opposes the legislation as they are concerned this legislation will result in a drop in local sales tax revenue. But Bhatt says a centralized sales tax system would still be the best method for everyone

Cut 5 (09) “…the system.”

Bhatt says because Louisiana’s sales tax system is one of the most complex in the country, state and local governments could be missing out on tax revenue…

Cut 6 (06) “…compliance.”

The House Ways and Means Committee meets at 9 AM.

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Researchers at the Pennington Biomedical Research Center publish the first set of data from its RURAL Heart and Lung study. Lead Researcher Dr. Stephanie Broyles says the study gathered data in Assumption Parish.

Cut 7 (10) “…education level.”

Dr. Broyles says in cases where they saw differences, education levels, not income or age, stood out the most – but not in the way that people might expect.

Cut 8 (08) “…in lower education.”

The data book for Assumption Parish is out now. Dr. Broyles’ team also collected data in Franklin Parish, and she says it was very important that that parish be included in the study.

Cut 9 (07)  “…in the U.S.”

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A state lawmaker is looking to boost teacher pay to align with the regional average. Monroe Representative Michael Echols’ Teacher Pay Modernization Act would gradually increase teacher pay throughout the state until it reaches the Southern regional average.

Cut 10 (09) “…about 25-percent.”

Echols says the state would need to come up with somewhere between 200-million and 600-million dollars to accomplish this. Echols says one element of that involves finding cost-cutting opportunities within the public sector, including the elimination of job positions.

Cut 11 (08) “…that regional average.”

Echols says a lot of the cost-cutting could be mitigated if voters approve Constitutional Amendment Three in the May 16th election.

Cut 12 (09) “…in teachers’ pay.”

Louisiana teachers earn just under 60-thousand dollars a year on average, about 12-thousand dollars short of the national average. Echols’ bill will be considered by the House Education Committee.

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The LSU baseball rallied from seven runs down to beat Kentucky 17-10 to win its first SEC series and improve to 4-and-5 in conference play. The offense had one of its best days of the season. Derek Curiel was 3-for-5 with a home run and three RBIs…

Cut 13 (13)  “…last out”

John Pearson got the Tigers back in the game with a grand slam in the third inning. Seth Dardar hit a three-run home run in the sixth to give LSU the lead. Dardar flipped his bat way in the air and was fired up as he circled the bases

Cut 14 (10) “…world to me.”

This would have been a bad loss for the Tigers, who were in jeopardy of losing their third consecutive SEC series and second straight at home. LSU got down 7-0 in the third inning, but Coach Jay Johnson is proud of how the team bounced back…

Cut 15 (14) “…made it happen”

LSU will host Southern tomorrow night and visit Tennessee this weekend.

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Following LSU’s season-ending loss to Duke in the Sweet 16, Hall of Fame coach Kim Mulkey addressed a report that she is retiring. A social media post during the game reported that this was Mulkey’s last game. Mulkey shot the rumor down in the postgame press conference…

Cut 16 (16) “…on social media.”

Friday night was a tough end to a season that had hopes of a Final Four appearance. LSU lost a buzzer-beating shot. Mulkey says it’s never easy to see the season end with a loss…

Cut 17 (20)  “…we had.

LSU will have to replace Flau’jae Johnson, one of the greatest players in the program’s history. But the Lady Tigers return two of their top three scorers in MiLaysia Fulwiley and Mikayla Williams. Williams is expected to return for her senior season, seeking that a coveted trip to the Final Four…

Cut 18 (17)  “…Final Four.” 

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After missing five games last season due to an ankle injury, linebacker Whit Weeks decided he was going to return to LSU for his senior season. Weeks says a big deciding factor in returning was when Blake Baker was retained on Lane Kiffin’s staff.

Cut 19 (10) “…I’m coming back, too.”

Weeks is expected to miss most of spring practice as he continues to recover from an ankle injury that forced him to miss five games in the 2025 season. Weeks says he wishes he could be out there with his team, but wants to prioritize his health.

Cut 20 (09) “…roll into fall camp.”

If you’re a Netflix subscriber, prepare to pay a little more per month. Andrew Greenstein explains.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Details are out on men’s basketball coach Will Wade’s new seven-year contract with LSU. Andre Champagne has the story…

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

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If you’re a Netflix subscriber, be prepared to fork over a little more money. The premium and standard plans each increase by two dollars a month to $26.99 and $19.99 respectively, while the ad-supported plan goes up a dollar to $8.99. Haggai Davis, the host of the TechGumbo radio show and podcast, says the biggest reason is that Netflix is now starting to show live sports.

Cut 3 (09) “…whenever they’re ready.”

Davis says this likely will not be the last price increase for Netflix in the near term.

Cut 4 (09) “…raising their rates.”

Davis says even though this is the second price increase in less than two years, Netflix does not expect to lose too many subscribers as a result.

Cut 5 (11) “…have some ads.”

The increased prices are in effect immediately for new subscribers, and they will roll out over time for existing subscribers.

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The second-seeded LSU women’s basketball team will look to punch its ticket to a fourth consecutive Elite Eight tonight as they face third-seeded Duke at 9 p.m. in Sacramento. In LSU’s 93-77 win over Duke earlier this season, the Tigers had three post players score in double figures. LSU holds a size advantage over Duke and coach Kim Mulkey says the game plan to win the battle in the paint is simple.

Cut 6 (10) “…a lot of confidence.”

The Lady Tigers, who boast the nation’s top scoring offense, are averaging 108.5 points per game in the postseason. Mulkey credits her team’s depth for its high-scoring success this season.

Cut 7 (14) “…freedom to score.”

If LSU wins tonight, it will take on either top-seeded UCLA or fourth-seeded Minnesota on Sunday at 2 p.m.

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The Senate Health and Welfare Committee approves legislation to create the Office of Health and Nutrition within the Louisiana Department of Health. Covington Senator Patrick McMath says the state needs a single office to coordinate programs that could get Louisiana residents eating better and exercising more…

Cut 8 (14) “…across the state.”

McMath says the new state nutrition office would not be an additional cost, but it could help lower health care costs in the future as Louisiana has some of the highest rates of chronic disease in the country…

Cut 9 (14)  “…productivity.”

The Senate Health and Welfare Committee advanced the bill to the Senate floor without objection. McMath has pushed several pieces of legislation aimed at making Louisiana healthier…

Cut 10 (11) “…nutritious foods.”

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We are 50 days away from the May 16^th party primary election. The U-S Senate Republican Primary is getting the most attention, but the 5^th District Congressional Republican primary is also very competitive. Radio talk show host Moon Griffon says it’s hard to judge who is the front-runner to replace Julia Letlow…

Cut 11 (08) “…play yet.”

Board of Regents Chairperson Misti Cordell, state representative Michael Echols, state senator Rick Edmonds and state senator Blake Miguez are the main candidates in the fifth district republican primary. Griffon says none of the candidates have been able to distinguish themselves from the others…

Cut 12 (08) “…missing something.”

Pollster Greg Rigamer conducted a survey last month on the primary race and it was a virtual tie between the four candidates, all polling in the single digits.

Griffon is curious to see what kind of turnout we’ll see in May and in the June primary runoff. He says voters are not used to big elections in the spring and it’s a busy time of the year…

Cut 13 (10) “…way it is.”

Boot Up Louisiana! Will Wade is returning to LSU to lead the men’s basketball program again. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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LSU is launching a four-year degree program in A-I this fall. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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A reunion between LSU and men’s basketball coach Will Wade is happening as McNeese announces athletics director Heath Schroyer has accepted a job at LSU as Senior Deputy AD. Jim Gazzolo covers McNeese athletics for the American Press and says Wade would not leave North Carolina State for LSU if Schroyer is not at LSU…

Cut 3 (04) “…trust.”

Schroyer hired Wade as McNeese’s head coach in 2023, a year after he was fired at LSU for committing NCAA recruiting violations.

Cut 4 (09) “…place bets.”

Schroyer arrived on campus in 2018 as the Cowboys head basketball coach. He was elevated to Athletics Director in June 2020, during the middle of the COVID pandemic and right before two major hurricanes that struck southwest Louisiana. Gazzolo says what Schroyer did once he got the A-D job is remarkable…

Cut 5 (15) “…Schroyer.”

Schroyer will remain the AD at McNeese until April 10th, and then Deputy AD Bridge Martin will become the interim AD.

Wade’s return to LSU means Matt McMahon’s four year run as the Tigers men’s basketball coach is over. He went 60-70 in four seasons at LSU.

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LSU will soon be launching a bachelor’s degree program in artificial intelligence. The four-year program is the first of its kind in Louisiana. James Ghawaly (guh-WALL-ee), an assistant professor of science and engineering at LSU, says this degree program goes well beyond simply how to use A-I.

Cut 6 (12) “…of A-I assistance.”

Along with building new A-I technologies from the ground up, students will also learn the ethics of using A-I, which Ghawaly says is standard procedure in most engineering programs these days. He says students will also learn how to detect whether video content was created using A-I.

Cut 7 (13) “…generated versus genuine.”

Ghawaly says the program is starting in just a few months. 

Cut 8 (12) “…fall of 2027.”

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Monroe Senator Stewart Cathey does not believe politicians should be able to run for a seat in the U-S House of Representatives if they do not live in the district they are seeking to represent. Cathey brought Senate Concurrent Resolution number nine up for debate in the Governmental Affairs committee…

Cut 9 (12)  “…wanted.”

The legislation is directed at Blake Miguez, who lives near New Iberia, but is seeking to represent a Congressional district that covers the Monroe and Baton Rouge areas. The Senate Governmental Affairs Committee reported the resolution without action, which technically kills the measure for the session…

Cut 10 (07) “…significantly outside.”

Cathey was looking at running for the 5th district congressional seat currently occupied by Julia Letlow, but abandoned a campaign when President Trump endorsed Miguez.

Cathey says if you run for U-S Senate, you have to live in the state that you represent. State legislators have to live in the district that they represent and the same rule should apply for members of the U-S House of Representatives. But Houma Senator Mike Fesi says federal law allows for a U-S Representative to live outside of their district…

Cut 11 (06) “…this start.”

Fesi did not feel comfortable passing a resolution in Louisiana when there are 25 members of the U-S House of Representatives who do not live in the district they represent…

Cut 12 (07) “…figure out.”

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ULM introduced Ryan Cross as its new men’s basketball coach. Cross spent eight seasons as a Warhawk assistant before spending the last six years as an assistant at U-A-B. Cross says the ULM program is one that he has personal sweat equity invested…

Cut 13 (09) “…win championships.”

UAB made four postseason appearances in his six seasons as an assistant coach for the Blazers. And when Cross was an assistant at ULM, the Warhawks had their three winningest seasons since ULM joined the Sun Belt. He’s hoping northeast Louisiana will rally around his program…

Cut 14 (10) “…about.”

ULM is coming off a horrible season where they went 4-28 overall, 1-17 in the Sun Belt.

The online harassment of college athletes by betters is a real issue and the Louisiana Legislature is trying to address it. Joe Gallinaro has the story…

Cut 1 (28) “…I’m Joe Gallinaro.”

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Senator Bill Cassidy has declined an invitation to debate his two biggest challengers during Moon Griffon’s statewide radio talk show. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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State lawmakers have started to advance legislation that would allow the Louisiana Gaming Control Board to set up a rule where they can ban a person from placing sports bets in Louisiana if they harass a college athlete. Leesville Senator Mike Reese says a recent ESPN report found that one in three high profile college athletes receive abusive messages from bettors.

Cut 3 (08) “…those tournaments.”

Reese is the author of the legislation, and he says Ohio and West Virginia have already passed this law and the NCAA is encouraging more states to do the same…

Cut 4 (09) “…place bets.”

During his testimony in front of a Senate Committee, Reese presented evidence that female college athletes are harassed more than men…

Cut 5 (07) “…other sports.”

Reese says many of these threats are related to prop bets, which Louisiana has already prohibited on college contests. An example of a prop bet would be a wager on the number of points or touchdowns a player would score.

The bill heads to the Senate floor and is expected to receive legislative approval.

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Senator John Kennedy says he feels everyone’s pain when it comes to soaring gasoline prices. The spike started at the beginning of this month in the wake of the U.S. military action in Iran. That choked off the Strait of Hormuz, which is a critical shipping corridor for oil coming into the U.S. Kennedy says by closing that waterway, Iran is only hurting itself in the long run. 

Cut 6 (10) “…them the most.”

Kennedy says everyone knew that a spike in gas prices would result from the military action in Iran.

Cut 7 (10) “…their only play (2x).”

As to when the price of gasoline and diesel will stop soaring into the stratosphere, Kennedy says at this point, it’s anyone’s guess.

Cut 8 (09) “…back to normal.”

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Senator Bill Cassidy has declined talk show host Moon Griffon’s invitation to participate in a debate involving his two most formidable challengers to his re-election chances. John Fleming and Julia Letlow plan on attending the April 28^th debate from 9 to 11 AM on Griffon’s radio show. Cassidy says it would be better for voters, if the Senate Republican Primary debates are on television…

Cut 9 (05)  “…primetime.”

When Cassidy was elected to his second term in 2020, he refused to debate Democrat and at that time Shreveport mayor Adrian Perkins. Cassidy said during an interview on KEEL Radio in Shreveport, the circumstances were different back then…

Cut 10 (08) “…different elecitons.”

Cassidy is still calling on Letlow to debate him on TV….

Cut 11 (13) “…TV.”

Multiple TV stations have invited Cassidy, Letlow and Fleming to participate in a debate before the May 16^th primary, but so far the three candidates have not agreed to do one.

Even if you don’t drive an 18-wheeler, you will be paying the high price of diesel one way or another. Andrew Greenstein explains.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Tragedy in Rapides Parish as a former sheriff is run over and killed. Joe Gallinaro reports.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Joe Gallinaro.”

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If you think gasoline prices are high, get a load of diesel fuel prices! Some truck stops are selling diesel at more than five dollars a gallon. Dr. Walter Lane, the chairman of the Department of Economics, Finance and Accounting at UNO, says even if you don’t commute to and from work via semi truck, you will feel the effects.

Cut 3 (08) “…comes by truck.”

Dr. Lane says tractor-trailers are an extremely important component to logistics, since they usually handle the final leg of a product’s journey to the store’s shelves.

Cut 4 (09) “…comes by truck.”

According to the Engine Technology Forum, about 97-percent of all Class 8 commercial trucks – the ones we usually refer to as “18-wheelers” – are powered by diesel engines. And Lane says the more it takes to keep them fueled, the more the goods they transport will end up costing us.

Cut 5 (10) “…chain to us.”

The current average diesel price, however, is not a record. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, that was set at the end of June of 2022, when the nationwide average for a gallon of diesel shot up to $5.78 a gallon.

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Legislation continues to move through the state capitol that would allow for the Louisiana Wildlife Commission to establish rules and regulations for a recreational alligator hunting season. The Louisiana Senate unanimously approved the bill by Franklin Senator Robert Allain, who says the alligator population has become too large…

Cut 6 (07) “…side of the road.”

Allain, who is also a commercial alligator hunter, says the alligator population now exceeds three million and it’s a safety issue…

Cut 7 (07) “…footprint.”

A nonverbal autistic, 12-year-old boy died near his New Orleans home after he was attacked by an alligator last August. Allain is concerned about more alligator-human interactions as the gator population explodes…

Cut 8 (06) “..this bill.”

The measure now heads to the House for its approval. There’s already a commercial hunting season, made famous by the popular TV reality show “Swamp People.” Allain’s bill would authorize the Louisiana Wildlife Commission to establish a recreational hunting alligator season that would be open to five-thousand hunters each year, with a two-gator limit.

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The winningest football coach in Northwestern State history has died. Sam Goodwin, who led the Demons to 102 wins from 1983 through 1999, died last Friday at the age of 82. Former Northwestern State Sports Information Director Doug Ireland says during those 17 seasons, the Pineville native turned the program into a perennial powerhouse in the Southland Conference. 

Cut 9 (06)  “…coaching tenure here.”

Ireland says not only did Goodwin overachieve as the coach of the team, he also brought out the best in players who had been overlooked in high school, as evidenced by the number of Demons who went on to play on Sundays after their college careers.

Cut 10 (08) “…in the rough.”

Ireland says Goodwin was not just a great mentor on the field, but he was a great mentor off the field as well.

Cut 11 (09) “…coach of people.”

A memorial celebration is slated for April 25th.

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President Donald Trump released a video today expressing his support for Congresswoman Julia Letlow in the US Senate race. The President calls Letlow a great Congresswoman…

Cut 12 (10) “…ever before.”

Cassidy remains confident he’ll win re-election, because he believes the race is not about an endorsement, but who has been more effective in delivering legislation and federal funds to help Louisiana.

In Trump’s endorsement video for Letlow, he touted her record for fighting border security and tax relief…

Cut 13 (09) “…every single American.”

But Cassidy points out that Letlow voted against legislation that resulted in 13-billion dollars to improve infrastructure in Louisiana.

Trump says he wants Letlow to represent Louisiana in the Senate…

Cut 14 (11) “…great state.”

Cassidy lost Trump as a political ally when he voted to impeach Trump for his role in the January sixth attack on the nation’s capitol.  The other major candidate in the race, State Treasurer, John Fleming, claims the Trump Administration tried to get him out of the race by offering him a high ranking job with the CDC.

If you’re an Entergy Louisiana customer, you will soon have three new ways to take a load off the power grid – and to save yourself some money. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Louisiana House approves a bill to name a proposed new bridge in Baton Rouge after President Trump, but only if there’s a strong financial commitment from the federal government. Jeff Palermo has the story.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Proposed upgrade plans for the Smoothie King Center aimed at bringing the arena up to modern NBA standards were released this weekend. Andre Champagne has the story.

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

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Entergy Louisiana customers will soon have three new ways to save money. Nyka Scott, the vice president of customer service at Entergy Louisiana, says those who install smart thermostats can turn the temperature up by a degree or two during peak hours. She says by doing so, they can take a huge strain off the grid, creating a win-win situation.

Cut 4 (05) “…reliable as well.”

Scott says Entergy is giving rebates on up to two smart thermostats – and that’s not all.

Cut 5 (12) “…that as well.”

That EV charging credit is for charging your vehicle during off-peak hours, which during the summertime is outside the hours of two and eight p-m. Scott says there are also incentives for those with solar panels as well.

Cut 6 (10) “…on our system.”

Scott says these programs could also reduce carbon emissions, since they may save Entergy from having to build another gas power plant to provide power. These programs do not apply to Entergy New Orleans customers; they have their own programs.

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A Gonzales Republican is proposing that proceedings in the Family Court for East Baton Rouge Parish be live-streamed for remote public access. Representative Kathy Edmonston says she’s proposing the bill to bring transparency to the court.

Cut 7 (07) “…bringing the bill.”

Family court almost always involves children in one way or another; and with that, there can be privacy issues. Edmonston says she is aware of those concerns and will likely amend her bill to protect juveniles…

Cut 8 (12) “…the general public.”

Edmonston says under her bill, the only way the cameras can be turned off is by mutual agreement.

Cut 9 (07)  “…the cameras off.”

Edmonston’s bill only applies to the Family Court for East Baton Rouge Parish, because that’s the only constitutionally-mandated family court in the state.

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The full House approves a bill that could lead to the naming of a new Baton Rouge bridge over the Mississippi River after President Trump.  The state is looking at building a bridge south of Baton Rouge in Iberville Parish and the cost could be three-billion dollars. Livonia Representative Jeremy Lacombe says if naming the bridge after the President helps bring home the federal dollars to build the bridge, he’s all for it.

Cut 10 (11) “…host of issues.”

Lacombe amended the bill to say the bridge will only be named after President Trump if the federal government provides a substantial amount of funding for construction and if such funding is provided prior to January 20th, 2029. The author of the legislation, Monroe Representative Michael Echols, says a new bridge is needed to alleviate traffic congestion in the capital city.

Cut 11 (07) “…across that river.”

Echols says he introduced the legislation to get the President’s attention that another bridge is needed in the Baton Rouge area, and it needs supports from the federal government.

Cut 12 (06) “…for 30 years.”

No one spoke out in opposition. Th measure passed on a party-line vote, 68-26. It heads to the Louisiana Senate for more discussion.

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Over the weekend, NOLA-dot-com published proposed plans for a major upgrade to the Smoothie King Center, the home of the New Orleans Pelicans, aimed at bringing the arena up to modern NBA standards. NOLA-dot-com’s Jeff Duncan says adding more seats to the lower bowl is one of the more significant aspects of the plan.

Cut 13 (14)  “…sit up high.”

Duncan says the Pelicans also want to upgrade fan amenities and hospitality areas designed to enhance the game-day experience, including grab-and-go concession markets, VIP club lounges, new sideline clubs, an upper-level party deck and bunker suites. Duncan noted that the proposed renovations would bring the arena in line with many other NBA venues that already feature similar features.

Cut 14 (12) “…in the past.”

If the proposed renovations are approved, it would be the most extensive renovation that has been done to the Smoothie King Center since it opened in 1999. Duncan expects the Pelicans to use the 400 to 500-million dollars they could receive from the two new NBA franchises to help pay for the renovations.

Cut 15 (07) “…Pelicans’ front office.”

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At LSU pro day, in front of NFL scouts, coaches and executives, quarterback Garrett Nussmeier looked like the Nussmeier from the 2024 season when he threw for four-thousand yards. Nussmeier was zipping the ball and completed 69 of his 72 passes. Nuss was hampered by an abdomen injury last season, suffered on the second day of training camp. He says he had to learn how to throw the football correctly in a short period of time before competing in the Senior Bowl on January 31^st…

Cut 16 (15) “…ground up again.”

Nussmeier’s injury contributed to an underwhelming performance on offense and it also hurt his draft stock. The Lake Charles native says the experience will only make him better…

Cut 17 (14)  “…the next level.”

Projected first round draft pick and cornerback Mansoor Delane ran a very fast 4.35. Linebacker Harold Perkins had a 35-inch vetical leap and broad jump of 10 feet and four inches. Linebacker West Weeks ran a 4.5 in the 40-yard dash. Receiver and kick returner Barion Brown is expected to be a late-round pick, but Brown is just grateful for the opportunity…

Cut 18 (15)  “…for this moment.” 

The NFL draft is April 23^rd to the 25^th.

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Some tense moments for some folks in Winn Parish as a wildfire approached their homes. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Last month’s oil spill off the Louisiana coast could be a disaster for the state’s oyster industry. Joe Gallinaro reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Joe Gallinaro.”

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Three Ochsner hospitals are listed among the 250 top hospitals in the country by “Newsweek” magazine. They are Ochsner Medical Center New Orleans, Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center and Ochsner Medical Center Baton Rouge. Regional Medical Director Dr. Quentin Alleva says it’s a tremendous honor.

Cut 3 (11) “…for the patients.”

Dr. Alleva says Ochsner’s success is based on the fact that it’s a one-stop shop for all of a patient’s medical needs.

Cut 4 (07) “…they may need.”

Alleva says being named one of the top medical centers in the country helps give patients peace of mind.

Cut 5 (10) “…outside our region.”

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Some tense moments for about 250 people in Winn Parish yesterday, as they had to be evacuated due to a wildfire. Fire District Three Chief Dustin Parker says the fire started along Highway 34 in Dodson shortly after noon yesterday and spread from there.

Cut 6 (08) “…some evacuations there.”

Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain says it was likely caused by a tractor trailer tire that had caught on fire, and the fire response was tremendous.

Cut 7 (06) “…aviation division overhead.”

Parker says the dry weather allowed the fire to grow to about two-thousand acres.

Cut 8 (05) “…very quickly.”

The fire is fully contained, and everyone who had been evacuated is now back home.

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Last month’s oil spill from a terminal operated by the Louisiana Offshore Oil Port, or LOOP, is threatening the state’s oyster industry. Last month, a cargo transfer hose at the terminal located 18 miles offshore in Terrebonne Bay sprang a leak, spewing more than 31-thousand gallons of Venezuelan crude into the bay. Mitch Jurisich, the chairman of the Louisiana Oyster Task Force, says the oil has now made contact with the coast, which can spell disaster.

Cut 9 (09)  “…reopen anytime soon.”

Jurisich says this oil spill could contaminate a large portion of the oyster population, putting a significant dent in the oyster supply at restaurants in Louisiana and beyond.

Cut 10 (13) “…hit the consumers.”

Jurisich says this has the potential to be evocative of a certain devastating oil spill from 16 years ago.

Cut 11 (11) “…BP oil spill.”