A new way to test and treat patients diagnosed with cancer is placing Ochsner Health – New Orleans front and center of universal genomic testing. Teiko Foxx has the story…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The state’s Secretary of Environmental Quality has resigned. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Almost 50 percent of LSU Health graduates will remain in instate for their residency. Brooke Thorington has more from the Interim Dean of LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine.

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Ochsner Health – New Orleans is one of the first hospitals in the nation to standardize genomic testing for cancer drugs to better treat cancer patients. Ochsner Health System Director of Clinical Pharmacy Services, Catherine Oliver says genomic testing helps to identify a person’s DNA and how the changes in a person’s DNA impact how they respond to medication.

Cut 4 (09)  “…from that medication.”

Pharmacogenomics testing guides doctors on how patients metabolize certain drugs and warns of possible side effects so they may adjust dosage in a way that provides personalized treatments. Oliver says the process evaluates the function of nearly 30 genes its preventing hospitalization and saving lives.

Cut 5 (09) “…decreasing that dose.”

Ochsner launched a pharmacogenomics program that is available to all patients in March 2022. The systems testing partner, OneOme, is working with insurance companies to make testing affordable. Oliver says providers can have results in about five days and costs are determined by health benefits.

Cut 6 (07)  “…minimal cost.” 

Pharmacogenomic testing is only needed once during a lifetime for most patients and is reflected in the patient’s record in a way that it is accessible now or in the future.

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Governor John Bel Edwards announces the resignation of the Secretary of Environmental Quality, Chuck Carr Brown. He will step down on March 31^st. Brown has led LDEQ from the time Edwards was first sworn into office. Brown says he is proud of the progress made in cleaning Louisiana’s air in recent years, after having the federal government set benchmarks for air quality…:

Cut 7 (11) “…the  Industrial Revolution.”

Brown previously served the Department of Environmental Quality as Assistant Secretary under Governor Kathleen Blanco. As Secretary, he oversaw LDEQ’s response the 2016 flood, and has worked with federal authorities as a steward of the state’s environment. He says he hopes his successor will carry on in his path…:

Cut 8 (09) “…and honest dialog.”

Brown’s resignation is effective at the end of this month. He tells LRN he is not retiring, but rather moving into a new phase in his life; doing environmental work in the private sector…:

Cut 9 (08)  “…State of Louisiana.”

LDEQ Assistant Secretary Roger Gingles has been appointed Interim Secretary.

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LSU’s Center for Energy Studies says the planned carbon capture hub in Calcasieu Parish could decrease climate change and also support jobs at the same time. Greg Upton, Interim Executive Director for the center says they have identified more than 50,000 jobs within a hundred miles of the planned hub.

Cut 10 (11)  “…look to decarbonize.”

Upton says when you look at the capacity of this one carbon capture hub in Louisiana the long-term impacts on the environment are significant. He says they’ve estimated $11.3 billion in what they call abated social costs over the lifetime of one carbon capture hub facility.

Cut 11 (05)  “…the atmosphere.”

And because many of Louisiana’s exports create carbon emissions and the state’s geology allows for the creation of a carbon sequestration hub, Upton says such facilities provide unrealized opportunities for the state.

Cut 12 (10)  “…to the customer.”

Upton says companies are looking to deliver those exports in a way that keeps them cost-effective internationally and reduces their carbon footprint.

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Match Day figures from LSU Health New Orleans indicate 80 percent of their graduating students who are staying in Louisiana for their residency will enter one at LSU Health. Richard DiCarlo, Interim Dean of LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine says it is very encouraging when their graduates remain in-state.

Cut 13 (10) “…at LSU.” 

Match Day is when every medical graduate student in the country learns which residency program they will enter, based on which one they chose and which program chose them, similar to signing day for athletes.

And the ones who will do their residency out of state, DiCarlo says they are entering prestigious ones.

Cut 14 (11)  “…for practice.”

DiCarlo says about 20 to 25 percent of their students will practice internal medicine, and others enter general surgery, pediatrics, and family practice. And recently he says more are entering the field of psychiatry.

Cut 15 (10)  “…also important.”

Forty-nine percent of LSU Health New Orleans medical grads will remain in Louisiana for their residency and 46 percent of LSU Health Shreveport grads will stay in-state for theirs.

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The top-ranked LSU baseball team missed out on sweeping Texas A-and-M last weekend as they blew a four-run lead on Sunday and lost to the Aggies eight to six. Coach Jay Johnson says he would have loved the sweep, but he’s dwelling on Sunday’s loss..

Cut  16 (16)  “…move on.” 

LSU left 12 runners on base in Sunday’s loss, but Johnson says he liked the offensive approach of his team as they scored 27 runs…

Cut 17 (18) “…to the hitters.” 

The Tigers are back at home tonight to take on Central Arkansas. Johnson says it will be a good non-conference test…

Cut 18 (17) “…well to win.”

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The Ragin Cajuns started Sun Belt play by sweeping Arkansas State, limiting the Red Wolves to ten runs during the three-game series. Coach Matt Deggs liked how his pitchers throw strikes…

Cut 19 (20) “…very exciting.”

U-L Lafayette hosts Grambling tonight then Southeastern Louisiana tomorrow and then they head to Mobile next weekend to take on South Alabama. Deggs says Grambling brings a 6-and-13 record to Tigue Moore Field…

Cut 20 (20)  “…can’t happen.”  

Money management, spending, credit, saving, and investing are just a few components that will be added to promote financial well-being for Louisiana high school students if state lawmaker Nicholas Muscarello has his way. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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The state will allow Neuty, the pet nutria, to stay at a home in Jefferson Parish. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (31)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

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A bill filed for the upcoming legislative session would require high school juniors and seniors to complete a Financial Literacy course to graduate from high school and qualify for TOPS. The author of House Bill 103, Hammond Representative Nicholas Muscarello says this has been on his radar for some time.

Cut 3 (08) “…two years.” 

The current curriculum requires students to complete at least four mathematics credits. Muscarello has been working with Superintendent of Education – Dr. Cade Brumley on the content components and says this will move students towards being fiscally responsible.

Cut 4 (08)  “…currently getting.” 

The proposed law would be added as part of the qualifications for TOPS and TOPS Tech awards which apply to graduates of public and nonpublic schools. Muscarello says twenty-five states have already implemented this requirement in their curriculum and he’s hopeful Louisiana will be added to that list.

Cut 5 (06) “…this through.”

The legislative session begins on April 10.

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Baton Rouge Police says 45-year-old Derrick Perkins faces additional charges for his involvement with the Georgia businessman Nathan Millard who went missing last month and his body was found wrapped in plastic and a rug on March 6th.  BRPD Sgt L’Jean McKneely says Perkins was already in custody on related charges of Access Device Fraud and investigators learned more about his involvement.

Cut 6 (08)  “…the information.” 

Perkins is also charged with Simple Criminal Damage to Property for burning the car he allegedly used that night and Failure to Seek Assistance in Millard’s death.

Last week Perkins was arrested last week on other charges and never posted bail. McNeely says they believe Millard’s actions in the early morning hours of February 23^rd resulted in his death.

Cut 7 (11)  “…his death.” 

McKneely says investigators believe Perkins was the last person to see Millard alive.

Cut 8 (05)  “…in now.” 

Toxicology results to determine Millard’s exact cause of death are pending.

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There appears to be a happy ending involving the story of Neuty the Nutria. Last week, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries attempted to take the wild animal away from a Jefferson Parish couple who had Neuty as a pet. But L-D-W-F spokesperson Ed Pratt says an agreement has been reached so that the nutria can remain with the family…

Cut 9 (08) “…about this.”

Several elected officials, including Lt Governor Billy Nungesser, said the state shouldn’t take the nutria away from the family. Pratt says the couple has applied for a permit which allows them to keep the animal under certain conditions…

Cut 10 (12) “…the nutria” 

Under state law, it’s illegal to possess a wild animal. But Pratt says L-D-W-F is making an exception in this case…

Cut 11 (09)  “…all sides.”

Details of the permit have not been released.

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The LSU women’s basketball program is headed to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2014. Angel Reese was dominant as she had 25 points and 24 rebounds and the Lady Tigers held Michigan to a season-low for points in a 66-42 win in front of a raucous crowd at the PMAC. Reese on the team’s defensive performance…

Cut 12 (13) “…it was fun.” 

LSU needed a great defensive effort, because they only shot 35-percent from the field. But they made six three-pointers, three of them were made by Jasmine Carson. Coach Kim Mulkey told Carson to look for her shot

Cut 13 (12) “…so big”

LSU will head to Greenville, South Carolina where they’ll play second-seeded Utah on Friday.

81-year-old Delhi Representative Francis Thompson who has represented northeast Louisiana in the state legislature for almost 50 years has switched parties. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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There is a new man leading the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry. Jeff Palermo talked with Jim Patterson about L-A-B-I’s priorities in the upcoming legislative session

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Entergy files for state regulatory permission to vastly expand its solar energy capabilities. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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The newest member of the state Republican Party is the longest-serving member of the Louisiana legislature. Delhi Representative Francis Thompson was a lifelong Democrat and by joining the GOP both chambers are a Republican super majority. The 81-year-old says he’d been contemplating switching parties for years.

Cut 4 (12)  “…elected me.”

The redistricting session last year played a role in the decision because District 19 is majority red.  Thompson voted then with Republicans to overturn Governor Edwards’ veto of a congressional map. He says his values are more aligned with the GOP nationally and on the state level and the switch comes after almost 50 years in the legislature.

Cut 5 (09) “…Republican party.”

When the regular session begins next month Thompson says how he votes will not change but for the first time, Thompson will have an “R” beside his name instead of a “D” on the October ballot.

Cut 6 (09)  “…continue that.” 

Thompson was the lone Democrat to join Republicans to vote for the state’s first veto override session to reverse Edwards’s veto of legislation to ban transgender girls from female sports and to remove restrictions on conceal carry.

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Federal regulators have approved Canadian Pacific’s acquisition of Kansas City Southern, a huge step towards reestablishing passenger rail service linking Baton Rouge to New Orleans. A passenger train has not run between both major cities since 1969. Baton Rouge Area Foundation Vice President John Spain says the deal specifically says the deal would allow Amtrak to add passenger service on the K-C-S owned line…

Cut 7 (04) “…April”

Another obstacle is getting the funding to establish the service. The largest price tag is nearly $108 million to replace the bridge across the Bonne Carre Spillway and the Louisiana Department of Transportation has applied for federal grants to help cover 80% of the cost. Spain says the pieces are starting to fall into place.

Cut 8 (07) “…the obstacles.”

The passenger line would include stops in Baton Rouge, Gonzales, LaPlace, Louis Armstrong New Orleans Airport, and Union Passenger Terminal in New Orleans.  Spain says this is a great solution for transportation infrastructure issues.

Cut 9 (08)  “…the train.”

A decision on the grant awards could happen by the end of the year.

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Longtime L-A-B-I official Jim Patterson is the interim president of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry, taking over for now gubernatorial candidate Stephen Waguespack. With the legislative session coming up, Patterson says L-A-B-I will be involved in the property insurance crisis and they would like to see the legislature address the high taxes on insurance premiums…

Cut 10 (10)  “…fiscal session.”

Patterson says they will also be involved in discussions about eliminating the state’s income tax and phasing out the state’s inventory tax, but that maybe difficult to do in an election year.

Patterson says they will oppose any bills that seek to prevent carbon capturing. Some lawmakers do not like the idea of capturing emissions and burying them underneath the ground or a waterway. But Patterson says

Cut 11 (11)  “… prevent a risk”

And Patterson says the business lobbying group will oppose efforts to raise the minimum wage from the current $7.25 an hour. He says it will drive up inflation even more….

Cut 12 (12)  “…goods and services.”

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Entergy is seeking regulatory blessing to make a huge increase in its amount of renewable energy. Entergy Louisiana CEO Phillip May says they have filed a request with the Public Service Commission to add another 3 gigawatts of solar power to its generation portfolio. May says there are billions in potential investments in Louisiana, but many firms want to see a commitment to renewable energy sources…:

Cut 13 (10) “…important for them.” 

The proposed additional solar power facilities would – if approved – be built in Iberville and Ouachita parishes, and would bring hundreds of jobs during construction. May says increasing Entergy’s green energy portfolio will likely bring billion into the state…:

Cut 14 (11)  “…made in Louisiana.”

May says the 3-gigawatt proposal will benefit local economies by way of tax revenues and wages. He says there are numerous advantages in expanding Entergy’s renewables energies, such as…:

Cut 15 (11)  “…renewable portfolio.”

Collectively, there are now 3,225 megawatts (3.23 gigawatts) of solar power in the approval queue for Entergy.

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The LSU Lady Tigers are headed to the Sweet 16 as they defeated Michigan 66-42 in front of a loud crowd inside the Pete Maravich Assembly Center. Angel Reese was outstanding for LSU as she had 25 points, 24 rebounds, and six blocked shots. Reese says she was hungry for a win…

Cut  16 (16)  “…tonight.” 

LSU heads to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2014 and they’ll play Utah. Coach Kim Mulkey says the program has reached another milestone…

Cut 17 (13) “…this program.” 

LSU held Michigan to a season-low 42 points and outrebounded the Wolverines 46-26. LSU led by 15 at halftime, but Michigan quickly scored the first points of the second half. So Mulkey called a time-out and reminded the team of blowing a 17-point lead against Tennessee in the SEC Tournament…

Cut 18 (18) “…remember” (2x)

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New Saints running back Jamaal Williams comes to New Orleans after leading the NFL in rushing touchdowns with 17.  Williams rushed for 1,066 yards and averaged 4.1 yards a carry. But Williams says he also has the capability to break off long runs…

Cut 19 (23) “…that going”

New Saints defensive tackle Khalen Saunders had a career-high 3.5 sacks last season and also a career-high 48 tackles with the Super Bowl champion Chiefs. Saunders says it was a read-and-react defense in Kansas City and likes that the Saints play a more attacking style of “D”…

Cut 20 (15)  “…learn a defense 

The increase in SNAP benefits from the pandemic has ended and many are struggling to make up for the reductions. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A Jefferson Parish couple’s pet nutria is set to be relocated to the Baton Rouge Zoo because of illegal ownership. Teiko Foxx has the story.

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Calls to Louisiana 2-1-1 seeking food assistance have tripled since February after the announcement that SNAP benefits are returning to pre-pandemic amounts this month. Department of Children and Family Services Secretary Terri Ricks says the reduction comes at a difficult time.

Cut 3 (03) “…time high.” 

The Pandemic SNAP benefits totaled more than $70 million monthly in Louisiana and Ricks says it’s not just families who will struggle, the decrease also directly impacts the state’s economy.

Cut 4 (05)  “…jobs.” 

More than 471,000 households in Louisiana receive food stamps which help feed some 953,000 people. Ricks says DCFS cannot replace the loss of those extra benefits.

Cut 5 (08) “…not there.”

More than 471,000 households in Louisiana receive food stamps which help feed some 953,000 people.

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Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries agents are on the hunt to seize Neuty, a Jefferson Parish couple’s 22-pound pet nutria. State law says nutria are considered invasive species and are to be kept in the wild. LDWF Spokesperson Ed Pratt says there is no state license or permit that allows an individual to own a nutria.

Cut 6 (04)  “…your home.” 

News stories began circulating about the couple’s relationship with the rodent on Wednesday. Pratt says when the status was made public – the department decided to move forward to confiscate the animal.

Cut 7 (11)  “…of it.” 

LDWF biologists and Zoo officials believe because the animal has been habituated to humans, it would not be able to survive in the wild. Pratt says the agency appreciates the owner’s affection for Neuty but the rodent can no longer live with them.

Cut 8 (07)  “…is safe.” 

If the state is able to get custody of Neuty, the nutria will become a part of an educational exhibit at the Baton Rouge Zoo.

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Ascension Parish businessman Brandon Trosclair officially announces his candidacy for Secretary of State this fall. Trosclair is a conservative Republican, who owns the 13-store chain of Ralph’s Markets here in Louisiana. He says the state’s elections system has been “tarnished by years of mismanagement and controversy”…:

Cut 9 (09) “…a broken system.”

Trosclair will challenge Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin’s bid for re-election. Also in the race, District 4 Public Service Commissioner Mike Francis. Trosclair says our elections system needs fixing, but Ardoin points out the Heritage Foundation ranks Louisiana #6 of 50 states for election integrity. Trosclair says that’s true, but a closer look at the data from Heritage gives Louisiana a 75 out of 100 rating for overall election quality…:

Cut 10 (13) “…proof of citizenship.” 

Trosclair says, if elected, he’d get rid of Louisiana’s Dominion voting machines. The company’s voting systems – used here in Louisiana – drew criticism after the 2020 Presidential election for security flaws and possible vote tampering. Trosclair says he’d end the deal with Dominion…:

Cut 11 (12)  “…implement that statewide.”

No allegations made against Dominion machines has been substantiated with proof. S.O.S. Ardoin sys Louisiana’s voting systems are secure.

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Eleven-year-old Matthew Fortenberry was killed last night while sitting in a car in North Baton Rouge and a 17-year-old suspect is in custody. BRPD Spokesperson Sergeant L’Jean McNeely says the suspect approached the car on foot where the victim was inside with family members and held them at gunpoint.

Cut 12 (12) “…his injuries.” 

McNeely says the suspect had personal issues with one of the family members of the 11-year-old.

Cut 13 (08) “…he was.”

The suspect was located less than a mile from where the shooting took place suffering from gunshot injuries. McNeely says he was transported to a local hospital and treated for his injuries.

Cut 14 (11)  “…of a Firearm.”

Instead of being booked into a juvenile facility, the 17-year-old was taken to EBR Parish Prison because of the murder charges.

(Charges: First Degree Murder, four counts of First Degree Attempted Murder, False Imprisonment with a Dangerous Weapon, and Illegal discharge of a Firearm)

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

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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

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

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

Cut 3 (09) “…the residence.” 

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

Cut 4 (08)  “…near Natchitoches.” 

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

Cut 5 (08) “…three zero.”

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

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

Cut 6 (09)  “…fall accordingly.” 

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

Cut 7 (10)  “…on politics.” 

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

Cut 8 (11)  “…uptick in demand.” 

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

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

Cut 9 (07) “…through the state.”

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

Cut 10 (09) “…Friday evening” 

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

Cut 11 (06)  “…festivities”

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

Cut 12 (12) “…for the patients”. 

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

Cut 13 (09) “…some challenges.”

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

Cut 14 (11)  “…Yomi robot.”

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

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

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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

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

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

Cut 3 (07) “…their region.” 

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

Cut 4 (10)  “…be headed” 

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

Cut 5 (09) “…these hurricanes.”

The changes will begin on May 15.

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

Cut 6 (07)  “…distant service.” 

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

Cut 7 (09)  “…train operation.” 

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

Cut 8 (09)  “…those cities.” 

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

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

Cut 9 (08) “…first in October.”

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

Cut 10 (09) “…in the run-off.” 

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

Cut 11 (10)  “…after Garret Graves.”

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

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

Cut 12 (09) “…unrelenting inflation”. 

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

Cut 13 (05) “…workforce.”

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

Cut 14 (07)  “…work schedules.”

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

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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

Cut 3 (05) “…re-election effort.” 

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

Cut 4 (10)  “…new hobbies” 

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

Cut 5 (09) “…legislative session.”

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

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

Cut 6 (11)  “…the legislature.” 

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

Cut 7 (11)  “…the Senate side.” 

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

Cut 8 (06)  “… we got.” 

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

Cut 9 (11) “…are charging folks.”

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

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

Cut 10 (11) “…their supplies” 

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

Cut 11 (05)  “…afford it.”

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

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

Cut 12 (07) “…in custody. 

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

Cut 13 (13) “…a motor vehicle.”

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

Cut 14 (06)  “…had been burned.”

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

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

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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

Cut 3 (10) “…why I’m running.” 

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

Cut 4 (10)  “…in Louisiana.” 

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

Cut 5 (10) “…lead like that.”

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

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

Cut 6 (06)  “…parking lot.” 

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

Cut 7 (07)  “…a crash.” 

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

Cut 8 (08)  “… was injured.” 

The investigation is ongoing.

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

Cut 9 (08) “…needs a rebirth”

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

Cut 10 (10) “…ready to roll” 

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

Cut 11 (12)  “…we do”

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

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

Cut 12 (09) “…called 911″ 

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

Cut 13 (12) “…to help them.” 

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

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

Cut 14 (09)  “…heartbreaker for us.”

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

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

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

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

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher” 

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

Cut 4 (11)  “…they need.”

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

Cut 5 (08) “…cyber side.”

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

Cut 6 (09)  “…on clinical trials.” 

The tour ends in Convent on March 16.

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

Cut 7 (10) “.. rigid regimen.”

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

Cut 8 (07) “…go to sleep.”

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

Cut 9 (10)  “…a sleep study.”

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

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

Cut 10 (08)  “…a professional.”

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

Cut 11 (09)  “… suffering.”

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

Cut 12 (12) “…for them.”

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

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

Cut 13 (08) “… Mid-Barataria Basin” 

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

Cut 14 (08)  “….estuary”

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

Cut 15 (09)  “…grandfathers did”

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

Cut  16 (15)  “…my questions.” 

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

Cut 17 (20) “…I can do.” 

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

Cut 18 (21) “…for sure.”

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

Cut 19 (17) “…the year”

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

Cut 20 (22)  “…of schedule” 

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

Cut 1 (34)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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

Cut 3 (07) “…as adult offenders.” 

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

Cut 4 (08)  “…and held accountable.” 

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

Cut 5 (09) “…as an adult.”

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

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

Cut 6 (10)  “…this weekend.” 

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

Cut 7 (07)  “…what happens.” 

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

Cut 8 (04)  “…are farmed.” 

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

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

Cut 9 (05) “…in Mississippi.”

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

Cut 10 (05) “…30 years.” 

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

Cut 11 (05)  “…are today.”

State Police said that the investigation is ongoing.

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

Cut 12 (08) “…recovery process” 

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

Cut 13 (11) “..long term.” 

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

Cut 14 (09)  “…to us”