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

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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

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

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

Cut 3 (12) “…and the passenger.” 

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

Cut  4 (08)  “…when driving.” 

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

Cut 5 (08) “…to the crash.”

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

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

Cut 6 (08)  “..etcetera, etcetera” 

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

Cut 7 (10)  “…they’re doing” 

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

Cut 8 (07)  “…to use” 

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

Cut 9 (05) “…rural areas.”

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

Cut 10 (09) “…huge problems.” 

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

Cut 11 (09)  “…everybody else.”

This year’s legislative session begins April 10.

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

Cut 12 (07) “…the solution.” 

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

Cut 13 (08) “…in the past.” 

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

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

Cut 14 (10)  “…by that”

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

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

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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

Cut 2 (32)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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

Cut 3 (07) “…not to run” 

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

Cut  4 (12)  “…the field.” 

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

Cut 5 (07) “…best governor”

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

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

Cut 6 (05)  “…full time.” 

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

Cut 7 (07)  “…year round.” 

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

Cut 8 (06)  “…the day.” 

Standard time resumes in November.

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

Cut 9 (11) “…yesterday we won.”

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

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

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

Cut 11 (12)  “…and the world.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cut 14 (08)   “…of other victims.”

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

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

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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

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

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

Cut 3 (07) “…not to run” 

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

Cut  4 (09)  “…wants to do” 

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

Cut 5 (08) “…issues too”

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

Cut 6 (11)  “…same about.” 

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

Cut 7 (11)  “…election day” 

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

Cut 8 (05)  “…the unexpected.” 

Louisiana’s gubernatorial election is October 14^th.

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

Cut 9 (10) “…to Louisiana.”

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

Cut 10 (12) “…our future.” 

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

Cut 11 (12)  “…talking to.”

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

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

Cut 12 (14) “…make it happen” 

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

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

Cut 13 (04) “…great things” 

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

Cut 14 (08)   “…three for eleven.”

This is the fifth NCAA Tournament berth for the Cajuns.

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

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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

Cut 4 (10)  “…seven years.”

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

Cut 5 (08) “…from the governor.”

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

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

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

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

Cut 7 (06) “…two percent.”

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

Cut 8 (11) “…is worse.”

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

Cut 9 (07)  “…diagnosed late.”

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

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

Cut 10 (11)  “…all over the state.”

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

Cut 11 (13)  “…EV chargers there.”

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

Cut 12 (07) “…that bad right now.”

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

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

Cut 13 (12) “…a month.” 

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

Cut 14 (12)  “…have to pay.”

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

Cut 15 (11)  “…be charging.”

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

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

Cut  16 (14)  “…in 2023.” 

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

Cut 17 (10) “…as well.” 

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

Cut 18 (09) “…right foot.”

NFL free agency officially starts March 15th.

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

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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

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

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

Cut 3 (07) “..veteran quarterback” 

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

Cut  4 (11)  “…do that.” 

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

Cut 5 (07) “…your offense”

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

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

Cut 6 (10)  “…to be.” 

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

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

Cut 7 (13)  “…state history.” 

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

Cut 8 (10)  “…Louisiana forward.” 

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

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

Cut 9 (11) “…get on the news.”

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

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

Cut 10 (12) “…those facts.” 

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

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

Cut 11 (13)  “…unfortunate outcome.”

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

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

Cut 12 (10) “…what that is.”

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

Cut 13 (06) “…past three months..” 

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

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

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

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

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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

Cut 3 (10) “…we did that 

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

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

Cut  4 (12)  “…be changed.” 

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

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

Cut 5 (09) “…after them.”

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

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

Cut 6 (09)  “…last year” 

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

Cut 7 (08)  “…ten friends” 

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

Cut 8 (06)  “…great news” 

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

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

Cut 9 (08) “…18 years.”

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

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

Cut 10 (11) “…they’re successful.” 

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

Cut 11 (10)  “…about that.”

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

Cut 12 (11) “…to be successful.”

The primary is October 14th.

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

Cut 13 (09) “…those concerns.” 

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

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

Cut 14 (10)   “…affairs personnel.”

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

Cut 15 (06) “…contact us.”

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

Cut 1 (39)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Teiko Foxx” 

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

Cut 3 (10) “…Mr. Millard.” 

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

Cut  4 (10)  “…going on.” 

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

Cut 5 (08) “…tell us.”

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

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

Cut 6 (15)  “…severe thunderstorms” 

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

Cut 7 (08)  “…egg shaped” 

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

Cut 8 (06)  “..evening tonight” 

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

Cut 9 (09) “…dot-scholastic-dot-com.”

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

Cut 10 (10) “…what they’re reading.” 

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

Cut 11 (09)  “…this new resource.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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

Cut 3 (10) “…disenroll them.” 

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

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

Cut  4 (10)  “…contact information.” 

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

Cut 5 (06) “…healthcare coverage.”

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

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

Cut 6 (10)  “…path forward” 

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

Cut 7 (07)  “…ten days or so” 

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

Cut 8 (07)  “…t-shirt on” 

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

Cut 9 (09) “…most of em.”

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

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

Cut 10 (12) “…from there.” 

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

Cut 11 (08)  “…love you”

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

Cut 12 (08) “…the city.”

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

Cut 13 (11) “…happen again.” 

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

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

Cut 1 (30)  “…Teiko Foxx.”

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

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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

Cut 4 (11)  “…our products.”

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

Cut 5 (07) “…their limbs.”

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

Cut 6 (06)  “…the state.” 

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

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

Cut 7 (11) “…on there.”

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

Cut 8 (07)  “…you’re down.”

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

Cut 9 (10)  “…into the future.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cut 12 (09) “…stack up this year.”

The legislature convenes on April 10^th.

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

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

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

Cut 14 (13)  “…a lot of investments.”

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

Cut 15 (11)  “…for the state.”

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

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

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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

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

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

Cut 3 (10) “…hospitality center.” 

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

Cut  4 (09)  “…a need.” 

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

Cut 5 (09) “…break area.”

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

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

Cut 6 (11)  “…berries right now.” 

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

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

Cut 7 (05)  “…like water.” 

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

Cut 8 (09)  “…farmers left.” 

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

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

Cut 9 (07) “…whatsoever.”

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

Cut 10 (06) “…John Bel Edwards did.” 

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

Cut 11 (12)  “…to run”

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

Cut 12 (10) “…right now.”

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

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

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

Cut 13 (12) “…uncovered.” 

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

Cut 14 (10)   “…we follow.”

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