Gustav's damage in Alexandria tops $25 million (2008-09-23)
Officials say Hurricane Gustav inflicted more than 25 million dollars worth of damage in Alexandria when it blew through earlier this month.
Jindal pitching aid request in Washington (2008-09-23)
Governor Bobby Jindal is in Washington, seeking federal aid to help Louisiana recover from the blows of hurricanes Gustav and Ike.
French officials visit Baton Rouge, New Orleans (2008-09-23)
Two French officials are visiting Louisiana this week.
Southern U's new chief to get $295,000 (2008-09-22)
The Southern University Board of Supervisors agrees to pay the chancellor appointed in May 295,000 dollars a year through June 2012.
Sparta aquifer slowly deteriorating in quality (2008-09-22)
Sixteen parishes in north Louisiana depend on the Sparta Aquifer for their drinking water, but one expert says that water is slowly deteriorating in quality.
La. Senate picks N.O. retiree for ethics board (2008-09-22)
The Louisiana Senate has voted to name a New Orleans retiree as the newest member of the state Board of Ethics.
La DEQ now taking annual permit fees over Internet (2008-09-19)
Companies paying annual fees to the state Department of Environmental Quality can now do so online.
Entergy sees $500M-$600M in damage from Gustav (2008-09-19)
Utility company Entergy Corporation said it expects to spend $500 million and $600 million to repair damage from Hurricane Gustav, while the cost of damage from Hurricane Ike is not yet known.
Health insurance going up for Shreveport employees (2008-09-19)
Health insurance costs are going up for many city workers in Shreveport.
Dupree gets new contract as Monroe schools chief (2008-09-18)
Monroe City Schools Superintendent James Dupree has a new contract and a $5,000 raise.
Hurricanes: La NAACP postpones state conference (2008-09-18)
The Louisiana NAACP has postponed its state conference until further notice because of damage around the state from Hurricanes Gustav and Ike.
Southern focuses on small numbers (2008-09-18)
New Southern University Chancellor Kofi Lomotey is shifting his focus from hurricanes to a shrinking student body.
La. DSS secretary resigns over Gustav response (2008-09-17)
Louisiana's social services chief has resigned amid heavy criticism from the governor over her department's response to Hurricane Gustav.
Bossier Parish issue: To zone or not to zone? (2008-09-17)
Rural Bossier Parish residents may soon be facing something new: zoning requirements that determine how they can use their land and what they can build on it.
Lawyer removed from Jefferson siblings' case (2008-09-17)
An attorney who has been representing the brother and sister of Congressman William Jefferson in a criminal case is being removed from that case because of a conflict of interest.
22,000 get duplicate food stamp benefits (2008-09-17)
About 22,000 people who received emergency food stamps in Louisiana received duplicate benefits by mistake.
New Orleans says Houston welcome during Ike (2008-09-12)
New Orleans would like to return the favor to Houston.
Gustav problems plague DSS (2008-09-12)
One state agency has been at the heart of two of the more significant disaster response problems to show up with Hurricane Gustav, and Governor Bobby Jindal says the snafus were avoidable and unacceptable.
Calcasieu declared Gustav "major disaster" area (2008-09-12)
Residents of Calcasieu Parish are now eligible for financial help because of Hurricane Gustav.
Jindal unhappy with food stamp program (2008-09-11)
Governor Bobby Jindal says he is very dissatisfied with the way the state social services department handled the start-up of the disaster food stamp program to help those impacted by Hurricane Gustav.
Mayor: Monroe airport needs fee for improvements (2008-09-11)
Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo says $4.50 passenger facility charge approved by the Federal Aviation Administration "is how airports get built."
Audit: FEMA wasted millions on no-bid contracts (2008-09-11)
There's continuing evidence that the multibillion-dollar Katrina hurricane recovery effort has been badly mismanaged
73,000 without power in La. from Gustav (2008-09-11)
Over 73,000 electrical customers in Louisiana are still without power because of Hurricane Gustav.
Labor Department approves grant (2008-09-10)
The U.S. Department of Labor says it's making up to $22.2 million available to Louisiana for temporary jobs and humanitarian aid following Hurricane Gustav.
Study looks at stress after Katrina (2008-09-10)
A new study suggests that in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, about nearly one in five Gulf Coast residents experienced post-traumatic stress disorder.
La. high court upholds death sentence (2008-09-10)
The Louisiana Supreme Court has upheld a death sentence against a man convicted of killing an elderly Monroe woman at her home in September 2000.
Gustav price tag to the state $210 million so far (2008-09-09)
Hurricane Gustav's cost to state government so far is $210 million and rising.
Jindal: Tarp shortage in Gustav parishes (2008-09-09)
Louisiana homeowners hit by Hurricane Gustav are having trouble patching their roofs because of a shortage of tarps.
Katrina still a federal focus (2008-09-09)
The ongoing response to Hurricane Gustav in south Louisiana will not impede federal efforts related to recovery from Hurricane Katrina.
Shreveport GM plant begins H3T production (2008-09-09)
The Hummer H3T is rolling of the assembly line at Shreveport's General Motors plant at a clip of 320 per day.
Jindal says Louisiana supplies continue to run low (2008-09-08)
There are shortages of food, water and ice in Louisiana parishes hard hit by Hurricane Gustav.
Gustav knocks down historic oak (2008-09-08)
A sprawling oak tree on the grounds of the state Capitol is one of the victms of Hurricane Gustav.
Some 180,000 Entergy customers still without power (2008-09-08)
More than 180,000 customers in Entergy Corp's service area in Louisiana remained without power Monday, one week after Hurricane Gustav caused massive damage to the company's transmission system when it hit September 1-3.
Stalemate over LSU board chairman-elect (2008-08-29)
LSU's Board of Supervisors has a new chairman, but the position of chairman-elect is undecided after an 8-8 stalemate. Another vote is expected October 2.
New Katrina death tally: Half of victims 75 and up (2008-08-29)
As New Orleans residents warily track another threatening storm, a new report presents the clearest picture yet of deaths from Katrina in Louisiana.
On Katrina's 3rd anniversary, another storm brews (2008-08-29)
As another tropical storm looms, New Orleans residents are marking the third anniversary of Hurricane Katrina with a ceremony to remember victims who were never identified.
FEC: La. congressman filed campaign report late (2008-08-27)
Louisiana Congressman William Jefferson, under federal indictment on bribery charges, filed a required campaign finance report two days after deadline that shows his re-election campaign is $250,000 in debt.
Sorority at SLU put on inactive list (2008-08-27)
Southeastern Louisiana University has de-activated an off-campus sorority, some members of which were arrested after alleged hazing in January.
Louisiana, Mississippi keeping eye on Gustav (2008-08-27)
As Friday's third anniversary of Hurricane Katrina approaches, officials in Louisiana and Mississippi are keeping an eye on a storm named Gustav.
FEMA extends aid deadline (2008-08-26)
The Federal Emergency Management Agency says it is extending to March 1st relocation assistance for victims of hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Recall petition filed against Mandeville mayor (2008-08-26)
A recall effort is under way against Mandeville Mayor Eddie Price.
No appeal in Slidell case over courthouse icon (2008-08-26)
Parish and city officials won't appeal a judge's decision to award more than $42,000 in attorneys fees to the American Civil Liberties Union for a case challenging the legality of a religious icon in a Louisiana courthouse.
Changes ahead for state after-school programs (2008-08-25)
Louisiana's Board of Elementary and Secondary Education has voted to improve oversight of three after-school programs that were under fire fire for allegedly lax controls.
Road Home sets meeting in N.O. (2008-08-25)
The state plans to hold a second meeting in New Orleans on September 5 to help hurricane-affected homeowners facing deadlines under the Road Home program.
Times-Picayune: Bush aide critical of New Orleans recovery chief (2008-08-25)
New Orleans' daily newspaper reports that the federal official in charge of Gulf Coast recovery from Hurricane Katrina is highly critical of the city's recovery efforts.
Obama's Louisiana campaign director is 2008 Loyola-N.O. grad (2008-08-22)
The Louisiana director for Democrat Barack Obama's presidential campaign is a 2008 graduate of Loyola University in New Orleans.
Vitter can use some campaign funds for legal fees (2008-08-22)
The Federal Election Commission says U.S. Senator David Vitter can use his campaign funds to pay for some of his legal fees stemming from an escort service scandal. However, the commission deadlocked on Vitter's request to pay all of his legal fees using his campaign funds.
Report: DOD to again probe post-Katrina pumps in New Orleans (2008-08-22)
The agency that handles federal whistleblower complaints says The Department of Defense will again investigate allegations that the Army Corps of Engineers let a contractor install faulty pumps in spite of a whistleblower's warning.
Charity hospital's future discussed (2008-08-21)
A team of architects says it would be cheaper and faster to renovate the former Charity hospital in New Orleans than to build a new facility.
Early voting for La.'s congressional primaries (2008-08-21)
Early voting period begins Saturday for Louisiana's congressional primaries.
A new suit seeks to reopen Tulane women's college (2008-08-21)
A descendant of the founder of one of the nation's oldest degree-granting colleges for women has filed a new challenge Wednesday to Tulane University's merger of Newcomb College with its other undergraduate colleges.
Jindal to speak at GOP convention (2008-08-21)
Governor Bobby Jindal will speak at the Republican National Convention next month. But it's not the keynote role some political watchers had speculated Jindal might receive.
Jindal won't renew anti-discrimination order (2008-08-20)
An anti-discrimination order put in place by former Governor Kathleen Blanco won't be renewed by Governor Bobby Jindal.
Lafayette airport wants to boost traffic (2008-08-20)
The Lafayette Regional Airport, which has seen its business grow sharply over the past few years, is moving forward with a 31.7 million dollar expansion project.
Bush: New Orleans still struggling to recover (2008-08-20)
President Bush says he sees hopeful signs of progress in New Orleans three years after Hurricane Katrina, but acknowledges the city is still struggling to recover.
Big Charity hospital's future discussed (2008-08-20)
A team of architects and historic preservationists are weighing in on the future of Big Charity hospital in New Orleans.
Africanized honeybees found in Winn Parish (2008-08-19)
Tests are confirming the discovery of Africanized honeybees in a second part of central Louisiana.
Report explains killing of shelter animals (2008-08-19)
Multiple illnesses and a lack of quarantine space led to the August 4 euthanasia of at least 172 cats and dogs at the Tangipahoa Parish Animal Control shelter. That's according to a report released Monday.
Prairieville woman finds thousands in cash, returns it (2008-08-19)
A woman on her way to work found a wallet, flush with $2,390 in cash and credit cards, lying on the road near her home and turned it over to police.
La. AG's office warns of mineral rights scam (2008-08-18)
Attorney General Buddy Caldwell's office says a new scam can cost landowners the mineral rights to their property.
Beard using 'Jena Six' defense funds for school (2008-08-18)
The youngest defendant of the "Jena Six" is using his share of money donated for defense attorneys to attend a private boarding school with a focus on college preparation.
Gov. Jindal pitches expansion for GM plant (2008-08-18)
Governor Bobby Jindal says General Motors won't change its mind about cutting the second shift at its Shreveport assembly plant on September 29.
2 injured in Abbeville plane crash (2008-08-15)
Vermilion Parish Sheriff's deputies say two people were injured in a plane crash in a field south of the Abbeville airport.
Nearly 500 Louisiana laws start Friday (2008-08-15)
Nearly 500 state legislative acts take effect today. Lawmakers approved most of the changes which are either new laws or adjustments to old ones in the legislative session that ended in June. Many changes will barely be noticeable. A look at some others:
Oil, grain prices spike Louisiana export values (2008-08-15)
The World Trade Center of New Orleans says record prices for oil and grain pushed the value of Louisiana's worldwide exports to $22 billion over the first six months of 2008.
Prosecutors seek defense lawyer's removal (2008-08-13)
Federal prosecutors say a defense attorney should be disqualified from representing two siblings of a Louisiana congressman in a fraud case.
Some La. residents can defer utility bill hikes (2008-08-13)
Energy regulators decided Tuesday that some Louisiana utility customers can postpone payment of hikes in their electricity bills for up to one year.
Book club starting at La.'s annual book fest (2008-08-13)
The annual Louisiana Book Festival is adding a new feature this year for its avid readers: a book club.
Art museum program about post-disaster creativity (2008-08-12)
Creativity after disaster is the theme of a program August 27 at the New Orleans Museum of Art.
Audit questions mayor's use of credit card (2008-08-12)
A legislative audit has found that Mandeville Mayor Eddie Price may have violated state law by charging thousands of dollars on a city credit card for what appeared to be personal expenses.
State dollars creating new professor jobs (2008-08-12)
Nearly $14 million in state money will help create 176 new professorships at universities around Louisiana.
Fall shrimp season opening announced (2008-08-08)
Shrimpers can hit the water inshore in search of shrimp on Monday.
Feds give La. more time for levee repayment (2008-08-08)
The federal government has agreed to give Louisiana 30 years to repay 1.8 billion dollars for levee improvements in the New Orleans area.
Baton Rouge hosts balloon championship (2008-08-08)
The skies of Baton Rouge will be dotted this weekend with hot air balloons, as an estimated 30 pilots compete in the Pennington Balloon Championship.
ACLU says racial profiling in state continues (2008-08-06)
The American Civil Liberties Union says legislators should toughen a law passed in 2001 to prohibit racial profiling by Louisiana law enforcement agencies.
Storm seminars set (2008-08-06)
With hurricane season in full swing, the University of New Orleans is hosting a series of seminars designed to help residents guard their homes against storms.
Case against La. lawmaker back in court (2008-08-06)
An attorney for a Louisiana lawmaker questions whether the potential jury pool for the money laundering case against his client has been tainted by extensive media coverage of the his recent arrest.
West Nile infects W. Feliciana man's nervous system (2008-08-06)
Louisiana's state epidemiologist reports the first case this year of encephalitis or meningitis caused by the West Nile virus.
evacuation ordered for residents living below the Intracoastal Waterway (2008-08-04)
The Cameron Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness called a mandatory evacuation this morning for the few residents still living below the Intracoastal Waterway.
Hammond gets post-Katrina grant (2008-08-04)
The city of Hammond has received a $75,000 grant from a new foundation set up on the North Shore after Hurricane Katrina.
Prairieville considers incorporation (2008-08-04)
Some Prairieville residents and business owners are talking about incorporating into a new Ascension Parish city.
Appeals Court lets Odom charge stand (2008-08-01)
The 1st Circuit Court of Appeal has revived the case against Bob Odom by allowing one count of filing false public records to stand against the former state agriculture commissioner.
ENO files for rate reduction (2008-08-01)
Citing a returning population to New Orleans, the unit of Entergy Corporation that serves the city has filed to reduce power rates and generating fuel costs, while raising natural gas rates.
Study: La. second worst in highway deaths (2008-08-01)
A new report concludes that Louisiana has more highway deaths per mile than any state in the nation except Montana.
Energy policy debated in N.O. (2008-07-28)
Eight congressional lawmakers are in New Orleans to debate national energy policy.
Grand jury to probe Taser death (2008-07-28)
A grand jury in central Louisiana is expected to weigh criminal charges against a former police officer who allegedly jolted a handcuffed man nine times with a Taser before the suspect died.
State to probe health, children (2008-07-28)
Officials say new findings on how education and health traits are largely determined by the age of 5 are so striking that the state plans to host a symposium on the issue this year
Miss. River spill idles ships near New Orleans (2008-07-25)
A bottleneck caused by a massive spill of heavy fuel oil on the Mississippi River at New Orleans entered its third day today with about 200 vessels stacked up.
Survey finds many in La. reject evacuation option (2008-07-25)
Despite the devastation of hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005, a Harvard University survey shows that a large number of coastal residents still say they would refuse to evacuate if another hurricane zeroes in on the state.
I-10 closed in the Atchafalaya basin (2008-07-24)
State police have closed a portion of Interstate 10 eastbound and westbound in the Atchafalaya basin following a wreck involving an 18-wheeler carrying a hazardous material.
Cravins gets attention from DC Democrats (2008-07-24)
Congressional candidate Don Cravins of Saint Landry Parish is getting attention from Democrats in Washington D.C.
Coast Guard: Tug in accident lacked licensed pilot (2008-07-24)
The Mississippi River is closed Thursday to ship traffic from New Orleans to the Gulf of Mexico after a barge was split in half in a collision with a tanker, spilling thousands of gallons of heavy oil.
Judge awards $42,000 to ACLU in Jesus icon case (2008-07-24)
A federal judge has awarded more than $42,000 in attorneys fees to the American Civil Liberties Union for a case challenging the legality of a religious icon hanging in a Louisiana courthouse.
Flags flown at half-staff at La. Capitol (2008-07-23)
Flags are being flown at half-staff at the state Capitol to honor the crew of a crashed B-52 bomber from Louisiana's Barksdale Air Force Base.
Collision closes Mississippi River at New Orleans (2008-07-23)
A collision between a 600-foot tanker and a tugboat pushing one barge has closed the Mississippi River at New Orleans.
FEMA seeks immunity from suits over trailer fumes (2008-07-23)
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is requesting immunity from lawsuits filed on behalf of Gulf Coast hurricane victims who claim they were exposed to dangerous fumes while living in government-issued trailers.
Judge: Tobacco Co.s must pay $263.5 million (2008-07-22)
An Orleans Parish judge has ordered the nation's biggest tobacco companies to put $263.5 million into an account for a statewide program to help people stop smoking.
Kennedy becomes lone Republican in Senate race (2008-07-22)
Republican Treasurer John Kennedy's only GOP opponent in the U.S. Senate race has dropped out.
St. Landry detectives seize steroids (2008-07-22)
The St. Landry Parish Sheriff's Office says its narcotics detectives have seized about $15,000 worth of anabolic steroids during undercover operations in Opelousas, Eunice and Krotz Springs.
Parishes look for sediment solution (2008-07-21)
While Terrebonne Parish worries about erosion, Morgan City in St. Mary Parish has a different kind of problem.
Congressional Democrats resume Katrina tour (2008-07-21)
House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says she supports Gov. Bobby Jindal's call to extend repayment of Louisiana's $1.8 billion share of payments for levee improvements.
N.O. airport to resume soundproofing houses (2008-07-21)
Louis Armstrong International Airport is getting ready to resume soundproofing nearby homes even though it lost federal money for the project.
Tuition to rise at 5 LSU campuses, up to 5 percent (2008-07-18)
Tuition for students at five LSU campuses around the state will cost more this fall, after the university governing board approved increases that are designed to keep the schools on pace with other colleges around the South.
Beer festival planning big; it ran dry last year (2008-07-18)
The Acadiana Arts Council's new director says there's no way the taps will run dry at this year's beer tasting festival.
Last year, the council expected about 400 people to show up for its first Gulf Brew festival. It drew more than 1,000, and ran out of beer.
First ozone warning in Lafayette (2008-07-18)
The state Department of Environmental Quality warns nearly one-third of Louisiana's parishes that ozone levels in the air could reach levels considered unhealthy on Friday.
Group says overpass encampment cleared (2008-07-17)
A New Orleans group that aids the homeless says it has cleared the last 50 to 100 people from a tent encampment under a highway overpass in downtown New Orleans.
Lafayette Board suing over conditions at school (2008-07-17)
The Lafayette Parish School Board is heading to court over conditions at a recently closed school.
Confusion over who's eligible for vouchers (2008-07-17)
Students in grades kindergarten through three from failing public schools in New Orleans are supposed to be eligible for a voucher program that would send them to private schools at public expense but disagreement has arisen over which New Orleans schools are failing.
Governor signs body armor bill (2008-07-14)
Starting August 15th, possessing or wearing body armor such as bulletproof vests on school grounds, on school buses, at off-campus events and within 1,000 feet of a campus or in a firearms free zone will be illegal.
More Lafayette police needed (2008-07-14)
More police officers could be patrolling Lafayette streets in the coming months.
Higher gasoline prices fuel new taxi surcharge (2008-07-14)
The cost of a cab ride is going up in New Orleans fueled by higher gasoline prices.
Republican Alexander signs up for re-election (2008-07-09)
Rodney Alexander is the first of Louisiana's incumbent congressmen to sign up to run for re-election this year.
More applying to LSU, Southern (2008-07-09)
Officials say LSU has a record number of student applications, but overall enrollment is actually expected to decline "slightly" in the fall.
Kennedy pushes for debates in Senate race (2008-07-09)
Republican Senate candidate John Kennedy says he wants to debate his opponent, incumbent Democratic Senator Mary Landrieu, at least seven times before the fall election.
Neighbors say Meraux refinery polluting (2008-07-03)
A St. Bernard Parish environmental group has served notice that it intends to file suit against the Murphy Oil refinery in Meraux over alleged violations of the federal Clean Air Act.
Judge to rule on Angola 5 statements (2008-07-03)
A state district judge says he plans to announce September 5 whether he will throw out any of the statements made to investigators by five Angola inmates implicated in the slaying of a security officer.
Entergy Louisiana customers could see small refund (2008-07-03)
Customers of Entergy Louisiana LLC could be in line for a small refund after a Louisiana Supreme Court ruling about how certain power costs should factor into rates.
State ed. official oppose proposed waiver (2008-06-30)
State education officials are criticizing a proposed policy change that would provide waivers to exceptional students who fail a key assessment test.
Gov. Jindal's legislative director resigns (2008-06-30)
After serving fewer than six months, Gov. Bobby Jindal's legislative director is resigning.
Lafayette car dealership offering cheap gas (2008-06-30)
People began lining up at 5 a.m. at a Lafayette car dealership offering gasoline for 99 cents a gallon on Monday. Police say the line was miles long by 8 a.m., when the 12-hour promotion began.
East Baton Rouge changes casino contracts (2008-06-26)
The East Baton Rouge Metro Council has voted 8-2 for a new deal that will boost the amount of money the city-parish gets from two downtown riverboat casinos.
State Sen. Don Cravins Jr. challenging Boustany (2008-06-26)
State Senator Don Cravins Jr. of Opelousas is challenging Congressman Charles Boustany, a Lafayette Republican.
Legislature approves construction budget overhaul (2008-06-25)
A reworking of the state's annual construction budgeting process that injects more legislative review into a process largely controlled by the governor's office received final passage today in the final minutes of the regular session.
State tourism secretary quits (2008-06-25)
State Culture, Recreation and Tourism Secretary Dawn Romero Watson says she is quitting the job July 1 because of a new law requiring disclosure of personal finances.
Court rejects death penalty for raping children (2008-06-25)
The Supreme Court today struck down a Louisiana law that allows the execution of people convicted of a raping a child.
3rd blood donor had no symptoms, but West Nile virus (2008-06-25)
Blood donations have turned up a third Louisiana resident infected by the West Nile virus this year.
Pineville lawyer quits Board of Ethics (2008-06-25)
Pineville lawyer Michael Johnson is the latest of the 11-member Louisiana Board of Ethics to resign since new laws restricted its powers.
Judge: Cajundome sale tax mandatory (2008-06-24)
A state judge has ruled the Cajundome must collect an 8-cent sales tax, meaning visitors can expect to shell out a bit more for drinks, food and parking.
Jindal faces veto decisions (2008-06-24)
Now that the legislative session is over, Governor Bobby Jindal is faced with decisions on several controversial issues.
Senate to debate $30 billion budget (2008-06-18)
Next year's $30 billion state budget was bulked up a bit by the Senate's budget committee, and now it's the full Senate's turn to comb through it
Lafayette schools get $11 million grant (2008-06-18)
The Lafayette Parish school system has received a federal grant aimed at helping students prepare for college and other post-secondary education.
House set to debate pay raise bill (2008-06-13)
A bill to triple state lawmakers' pay is generating outcries of opposition as the Louisiana House plans to take a vote on the proposal.
'Angola 3' member moved to one-man holding cell (2008-06-13)
An inmate who only recently was moved into a dormitory after 36 years in solitary confinement is in a one-man holding cell today, accused of breaking a prison rule.
Legislature nears vote on shifting general fund dollars (2008-06-13)
Ignoring Governor Bobby Jindal's push to avoid new dedications of state tax revenue, the Legislature is poised to approve a constitutional amendment that would shift 57 million dollars a year from the state general fund to energy-producing parishes.
House panel takes up education spending plan (2008-06-11)
The House Education Committee is getting its first look at a proposed $3.2 billion spending plan for the state's public school districts next year
House panel votes for lawmaker pay raise (2008-06-11)
A state House committee has granted quick approval to a legislative pay raise bill.
Judge to side with ACLU in school prayer case (2008-06-11)
A federal judge says he is prepared to side with the American Civil Liberties Union in its lawsuit over a teacher's prayer during a public high school's graduation ceremony.
Panel to debate who must disclose financial dealings (2008-06-10)
A state House panel has voted to ease up on some of the new income disclosure requirements the Legislature imposed on state boards and commissions earlier this year.
Lafayette violent crime up 13 percent (2008-06-10)
The FBI's preliminary crime shows violent crime in Lafayette last year increased by about 13 percent.
Once I-10 Twin Span replaced, debris going ot reefs (2008-06-10)
When the Interstate 10 Twin Spans from Slidell to eastern New Orleans are replaced, concrete from the current bridges will be used for reefs in Lake Pontchartrain and other areas.
Bill helps Iraqi refugees, ignores Katrina victims (2008-06-06)
Congress is prepared to ax a 73-million dollar package to provide shelter for disabled Hurricane Katrina victims, while the same bill sets aside 350 million dollars to help Iraqi refugees.
Accused serial killer may face death penalty (2008-06-06)
The Louisiana Supreme Court says prosecutors may seek the death penalty against an accused serial killer when he is tried for murder.
Lawmaker revisit the Sazerac at the official state cocktail (2008-06-06)
A bid to make the Sazerac the official state cocktail for Louisiana was restarted yesterday in the House Judiciary Committee.
Senate panel gets first look at construction budget (2008-06-05)
Senators get their first look Thursday at the pared-down construction budget proposed for next year.
State Supreme Court lets prosecutor seek death (2008-06-05)
The Louisiana Supreme Court has given prosecutors the go-ahead to ask jurors to recommend a death sentence for accused serial killer Sean Vincent Gillis if they find he kidnapped Donna Bennett Johnston before killing her in Baton Rouge in 2004.
State buying 7,200 acres of wetlands within Joyce WMA (2008-06-05)
Louisiana is buying more than 7,200 acres of wetlands within a state wildlife management area near Hammond.
FEMA trailer occupant killed after police stand-off (2008-06-04)
A nearly 10-hour stand-off with the New Orleans Police SWAT team ended early today when police fatally shot the mentally ill occupant of a federally supplied trailer in one of the neighborhoods hardest hit by Hurricane Katrina.
Convergys call center lays off 176 (2008-06-04)
Convergys Corporation has laid off 176 employees at its Baton Rouge call center, a move it called temporary and ``due to a client-based decision.''
Black mayors invite Clinton, Obama to conference (2008-06-04)
A forum featuring Democratic presidential candidates Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton may highlight the 34th annual National Conference of Black Mayors.
Colo. researchers predict 8 Atlantic hurricanes, 4 major (2008-06-03)
Weather researcher William Gray's team is calling for eight hurricanes in the Atlantic this year, four of them major.
Seale appeals to 5th Circuit (2008-06-03)
The attorney for James Ford Seale, the reputed Ku Klux Klan member serving three life sentences for his role in the 1964 abduction and murder of two black Mississippi teenagers, says Seale's conviction should be overturned.
East Baton Rouge Parish assessments up 7 percent (2008-06-03)
East Baton Rouge Assessor Brian Wilson has placed a value of $3.02 billion on all taxable property in East Baton Rouge Parish, up from $2.8 billion last year.
Former Lafayette police chief pleads guilty (2008-06-03)
Former Lafayette Police Chief Randy Hundley has pleaded guilty to attempted malfeasance.
Amedisys acquires 5 home-health locations (2008-06-02)
Amedisys Incorporated, a nursing-home services company, said Monday it acquired five home-health agencies from Health Management Associates Incorporated, a hospital owner and operator.
Reputed Klansman appealing conviction (2008-06-02)
A reputed Ku Klux Klan member serving three life sentences for his role in the 1964 abduction and murder of two black Mississippi teenagers is appealing his conviction today.
La. Democratic Party chairman backs Clinton (2008-06-02)
The chairman of the Louisiana Democratic Party is throwing his superdelegate backing to Senator Hillary Clinton for the Democratic nomination.
Senate budget panel approves voucher bill (2008-05-30)
Governor Bobby Jindal's push to funnel state dollars into a program that would send poor New Orleans students to private schools passed another legislative hurdle.
La. to use new software to track storm evacuees (2008-05-30)
New software will help officials keep track of over 11,000 south Louisiana residents who are transported to shelters in case of a hurricane this year.
FEMA closing trailer parks on eve of hurricane season (2008-05-29)
The federal government has plenty of reasons to move hundreds of families out of trailers they have occupied since Hurricane Katrina. They included the start of a new hurricane season, concerns about toxic fumes and the need for residents to find permanent homes.
Starbucks convention comes to New Orleans (2008-05-29)
Starbucks will hold its annual leadership conference in New Orleans this year.
Nagin: New Orleans reinventing itself as it recovers (2008-05-29)
In his annual State of the City address, Mayor Ray Nagin says historic New Orleans is reinventing itself as it recovers from Hurricane Katrina, with efforts under way to help make this a safer, more vibrant city.
Cut to environmental enforcement prompts complaints (2008-05-29)
A proposed $500,000 budget cut that would eliminate the criminal investigations arm of the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality has prompted complaints from environmentalists and concern from a federal environmental regulator.
Lafayette council approves wage settlement (2008-05-28)
The Lafayette City-Parish Council has approved a $7.5 million settlement in a long-fought legal dispute over back wages for firefighters, police officers and city marshals.
FEMA still evaluating emergency housing options (2008-05-28)
Disaster victims might one day watch their homes and communities be rebuilt from the cool comfort of a front porch.
Judge orders test for murder defendant (2008-05-28)
A state judge has ordered that accused serial killer Sean Vincent Gillis undergo a brain wave test requested by defense attorneys.
Grambling's annual audit reveals errors (2008-05-28)
A state auditor's report reveals key concerns with compliance issues and financial record keeping at Grambling State University.
Spillway discharge fuels algae in Lake Pontchartrain (2008-05-27)
The effects of the millions gallons of river water that poured into Lake Pontchartrain are now being seen in light shades of green along the north and south shores of the estuary system.
La. lawmakers still expect battles (2008-05-27)
Louisiana still doesn't have an official cocktail, droopy pants haven't been outlawed statewide and lap dancing can legally continue on Bourbon Street.
Unmanned drones head into hurricanes' core to get data (2008-05-27)
Government scientists believe a fleet of small unmanned airplanes sent to hurricanes' cores could lead to revolutionary advances in storm forecasting and measurement.
Derailment site cleanup nearly complete (2008-05-22)
Joseph Faust, public affairs director with BNSF Railway, says cleanup from Saturday's train derailment in Lafayette should be completed by tomorrow.
Complaint alleges inadequate special ed needs (2008-05-22)
The U.S. Department of Education is investigating a complaint that the Saint Landry Parish School Board failed to provide adequate resources for children with special needs.
Southern board meets Saturday to pick new chancellor (2008-05-22)
Southern University could have a new chancellor this weekend.
State sets June 16 deadline to declare grant interest (2008-05-22)
June 16 is the deadline for hurricane-affected homeowners to declare an interest in receiving up to $60,000 in grants to raise their houses.
Louisiana National Guard alerted for Iraqi duty (2008-05-20)
The Department of Defense has placed more than 3,000 soldiers from the Louisiana Army National Guard's 256th Brigade Combat Team on alert for deployment to Iraq in 2010.
Charity Hospital among most endangered historic places (2008-05-20)
The National Trust for Historic Preservation has named Charity Hospital in New Orleans and an adjacent neighborhood an endangered historical site.
House approves bill reducing dishonest political attacks (2008-05-20)
The House has approved legislation aimed at reducing dishonest political attacks during campaigns, even though the bill's opponents said it would be unenforceable.
Report: Orleans Parish prison lacking in care for the mentally ill (2008-05-19)
A review by the National Commission on Correctional Health Care finds the New Orleans system not doing enough to care for inmates who suffer from mental illness.
Engine fire causes plane evacuation (2008-05-19)
Fifty-four passengers were evacuated from a plane at Baton Rouge Metro Airport after the right engine caught on fire while the plane was taxiing for take-off.
Only businesses affected by scaled down evacuation zone (2008-05-19)
People driven from their homes by a train derailment in Louisiana have returned, but some businesses still are off-limits.
Louisiana landscape artist Elemore Morgan dies (2008-05-19)
Elemore Morgan Junior, an acclaimed Louisiana landscape artist who loved to paint south Louisiana's prairies and rice fields, has died. He was 77.
Citizens CEO gets raise (2008-05-13)
The state's insurer of last resort collected 4 million dollars extra in reinsurance from the 2005 hurricanes and, at the suggestion of the state insurance commissioner, rewarded its chief executive with a 10 percent raise.
Two college leaders make first job cut (2008-05-13)
The Southeastern Louisiana University and University of Louisiana at Monroe presidents are among the top six applicants to become the head of the state's largest university system.
Debate on campus guns bill delayed (2008-05-13)
State Representative Ernest Wooton has delayed debate on his legislation to allow permit holders to carry concealed weapons on college campuses.
Campus gun debate looms in La. House (2008-05-12)
The House of Representatives will debate today one of the more controversial issues of the session, allowing concealed handguns on college campuses.
Veterans plan statewide reunion (2008-05-12)
A statewide reunion for veterans of all military conflicts is planned this week in Baton Rouge.
Ozone alert is issued for New Orleans area (2008-05-12)
The state Department of Environmental Quality has forecast an ``ozone action day'' for the metropolitan area today.
Authorities clear plane, concourse after threat (2008-05-12)
Authorities investigating a bomb threat against a Northwest Airlines plane cleared the plane and an entire concourse at Louisiana's largest commercial airport.
Juvenile records could be public (2008-05-07)
The criminal records of some juveniles could become public record under legislation passed by a Senate committee.
Tangipahoa School Board hears controversy prom (2008-05-07)
The Tangipahoa Parish School Board heard a complaint about a high school principal who did not allow a girl to bring a female date to her prom during the weekend.
Tulane fraternity suspended after alleged hazing (2008-05-07)
An attorney says more than 10 fraternity pledges at Tulane University were burned with hot water and pepper spray during a ``hell night'' initiation.
Lawmakers delay part of the campaign finance law change (2008-05-07)
The Louisiana Legislature has agreed to delay the start of a new law requiring outside, third-party groups that try to influence elections to detail their contributors and their expenses.
La. prison finds bear on the grounds (2008-05-06)
One guard at the Louisiana State Penitentiary is a real bear.
A 400-pound black bear.
Senate panel stalls lawmaker pay raise (2008-05-06)
A hefty pay raise proposal for lawmakers has been put on hold by a Senate committee, amid questions about the state's budget for the upcoming year.
Lawmakers debate construction budget overhaul (2008-05-06)
Lawmakers grappling with how to overhaul the way the state spends its money on construction projects say that they want more details about how the governor's office grades projects and determines which ones get dollars.
Ozone alert today in New Orleans area (2008-05-05)
The New Orleans metro area is under an ozone action day. The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality says the ozone levels may create unhealthy conditions for people sensitive to air pollutants.
New Peigneur bill heads for Senate panel (2008-05-05)
Residents who live around Lake Peigneur (pen-YUR') are trying again to push a bill through the state Legislature to prevent AGL Resources from building two more natural gas storage caverns beneath the lake.
LSU beats Kentucky 9-8 with 9th inning rally (2008-05-05)
LSU's Matt Clark hit a two-run home run in the ninth to lead the Tigers to a three-game sweep over Kentucky with a 9-8 win.
Perrilloux tossed off LSU football team (2008-05-02)
LSU quarterback Ryan Perrilloux, who spent as much time in his coach's doghouse as calling signals for the BCS national champions, has been kicked off the team.
Tanigpahoa School Desegregation (2008-05-02)
A New Orleans federal Judge says replacing Amite High School's white head football coach with a passed-over black candidate was necessary to bring ``overdue compliance'' with previous school desegregation court orders.
Cajundome to start collecting sales taxes, reluctantly (2008-05-02)
The Cajundome, an athletic arena, meeting hall and concert venue that also housed evacuees from two hurricanes in 2005, is adjusting prices to comply with a court order that it begin collecting an 8 percent sales tax on food, beverages, merchandise sales and more.
Watering schedule in effect for Lafayette residents (2008-05-02)
Lafayette Utilities System's summer lawn watering schedule is now in effect until September 30th.
Baton Rouge Area ozone ranking high (2008-05-02)
The American Lung Association says the five-parish area around Baton Rouge ranks 10th in the nation for unhealthy ozone pollution days.
St. Landry school proposal delayed (2008-05-01)
The U.S. Department of Justice has been ordered to submit a complete reorganization plan to the Saint Landry Parish School Board on or before May 15th.
Stone buying Bois d'Arc Energy for $1.8 billion (2008-05-01)
Stone Energy is acquiring Houston-based Bois d'Arc Energy Incorporated in a cash and stock transaction valued at 1.8 billion dollars.
Judge considers former official's retirement pay (2008-05-01)
Federal prosecutors are asking a judge not to cancel an order garnishing former Louisiana Senate President Michael O'Keefe Senior's state pension.
Environmental group sues to stop levee construction (2008-05-01)
The Save Our Wetlands environmental group has filed suit against the Terrebonne Levee and Conservation District over its construction of the first section of the new Morganza-to-the-Gulf levee.
Expanded I-12 may reach Juban Road (2008-04-30)
Officials say a state plan to widen Interstate 12 from O'Neal Lane to South Range Avenue may be extended as far east as Juban Road.
House approves immunization bill (2008-04-30)
Local public school boards that provide information about immunizations to parents or guardians of students in grades 6-12 would have to include in that information the facts about human papillomavirus immunizations, if a bill approved in the House becomes law.
Scientists looking for 35 dolphins (2008-04-30)
Scientists from the National Marine Fisheries Service are searching the eastern half of Lake Pontchartrain for 35 dolphins that might be endangered by rapidly freshening water.
Storms still wreak havoc on La. health (2008-04-30)
According to the results of a new survey, Hurricanes Katrina and Rita continue to affect the health, particularly the mental health, of Louisianians more than 2 1/2 years after the storms ravaged the southern part of the state.
Jindal's state budget proposal facing scrutiny (2008-04-28)
Louisiana lawmakers combing through Governor Bobby Jindal's $30 billion budget proposal for next year want to slim down the spending.
Senate to debate changes in Stelly Plan (2008-04-28)
A bill that would repeal the income-tax increases that voters approved as part of the 2002 ``Stelly Plan'' faces debate on the Senate floor tomorrow.
Louisiana rice supply in good shape (2008-04-28)
Ross Hebert, president of the Vermilion Rice Growers Association and local rice farmer, says farmer are taking note of the recent rice rationing by two large retailers.
Report: Abuse plagues foreign shrimp operations (2008-04-28)
A new report alleging widespread worker abuse at shrimp farms and plants in Thailand and Bangladesh gives Louisiana shrimpers a new argument for pushing shrimp caught in U.S. waters.
Women headline opening day of Jazz Fest (2008-04-25)
For the first time in New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival history, women are headlining the event's main stage on opening day.
McCain says he would have responded differently to hurricane (2008-04-25)
John McCain says that if Hurricane Katrina had happened on his watch, he would have immediately landed his plane at the nearest Air Force base and gone from there to the city. He called the response to Katrina a perfect storm of mismanagement by federal, state and local governments.
Many states appear to be in recession, but states with energy-based economies doing well (2008-04-25)
A survey of all 50 state fiscal directors finds that the finances of many states have deteriorated so badly that they appear to be in a recession, regardless of whether that's true for the nation as a whole.
John McCain to visit Louisiana today (2008-04-24)
Arizona Senator John McCain is coming to New Orleans for the first time since locking up the Republican Party's presidential nomination.
State senator pleads not guilty to federal charges (2008-04-24)
A Louisiana state senator has pleaded not guilty to charges of helping helped a convicted felon launder money to conceal her operation of an illegal insurance business.
Group from Louisiana stranded on remote island in the Pacific (2008-04-24)
Eight prominent Louisianians are among a group of twelve stranded on one of the most remote islands in the Pacific Ocean.
La. panel blocks anti-droopy pants bill (2008-04-23)
Senators said they disapproved of revealing fashion styles, but rejected a bill that would make it a crime to wear one's pants too low.
Judge orders status hearing in Avoyelles case (2008-04-23)
U.S. District Judge Dee Drell has ordered a status conference for May 2nd in regards to the Avoyelles Parish School Board's decision to close its three middle schools.
Southern to bring back top 6 candidates for chancellor (2008-04-23)
Southern University will begin bringing its six chancellor finalists back to campus Monday for a second round of interviews.
House panel approves college tuition hike (2008-04-23)
College students around Louisiana could face larger tuition costs that steadily increase for four years, if lawmakers agree to a bill approved by the House Education Committee.
St. Charles Parish bans junk food in schools (2008-04-22)
No cotton candy, no suckers, no sweetened water ices, no doughnuts and, for students below ninth grade, no carbonated beverages. Those are some of the items banned during school hours for students in Saint Charles Parish public schools.
Louisiana Companies on Fortune 500 List (2008-04-22)
Entergy and The Shaw Group remain the two Louisiana companies on the annual Fortune 500 list of the nation's largest publicly traded companies.
Court: Papers in Pou case private (2008-04-22)
A Louisiana appellate court has ruled that the public should not see records collected by former Attorney General Charles Foti's office in the murder investigation against Dr. Anna Pou and two nurses following the deaths of patients after Hurricane Katrina.
Chancellor search seeks applicants (2008-04-22)
The Texas Tech University president and the University of Florida provost are the only two LSU chancellor applicants to make the cut thus far.
Baton Rouge Lawmakers to form caucus (2008-04-21)
Baton Rouge area lawmakers are attempting to organize a caucus
New Orleans Police ready for expected protests (2008-04-21)
New Orleans police are geared up for an unknown number of protesters expected to decry federal trade and security policies, as President Bush holds a two-day summit with leaders of Canada and Mexico. They will discuss economic and security issues.
House puts more bite into dogfighting bill (2008-04-21)
The House has approved and sent to the Senate a bill that would toughen the penalties for spectators who are caught attending illegal dogfights.
New levee doubts in New Orleans area (2008-04-18)
The Army Corps of Engineers says new levee tests show that the suburbs west of New Orleans may be in greater danger of flooding during hurricanes than previously thought.
Evolution, global warming excised from classroom bill (2008-04-18)
Evolution, global warming and human cloning are now out of a bill that backers say is meant to encourage classroom discussions about science. The bill's author, Senator Ben Nevers of Bogalusa, says that's fine with him.
Study: Shutdown of Port Fourchon would hit U.S. economy (2008-04-18)
According to a new study, shutting down Port Fourchon even for a short time would create a crisis. The port authorized the study by Loren Scott and Associates.
Guardsmen to deploy to Iraq (2008-04-18)
A deployment ceremony for approximately 300 soldiers of the Louisiana Army National Guard's 1-244th Assault Helicopter Battalion is set this afternoon in the University Center located on the Southeastern Louisiana University campus in Hammond.
Fannie Mae: Investment in N.O. tops $1 billion (2008-04-17)
The Federal National Mortgage Association says its investment in underwriting or refinancing home loans since Hurricane Katrina has reached 40 billion dollars in the Gulf Coast region.
Survey: Louisiana more confident (2008-04-17)
With the 2005 hurricanes another year in the past and a new governor in office, an annual LSU survey found Louisiana residents are more confident the state is heading in the right direction.
Assistant Zachary police chief fired (2008-04-17)
The Zachary Municipal Fire and Police Civil Service Board has ordered the firing of embattled Assistant Police Chief Bruce Chaisson.
Bond Commission agrees to Superdome debt plan (2008-04-17)
A plan to help bail out the state agency that operates the Louisiana Superdome from skyrocketing debt costs tied to problems in the housing credit market received approval today from a key state money panel.
St. Landry Parish school plan to get federal hearing (2008-04-15)
A federal judge has denied a request from the Saint Landry Parish School Board to discuss a pending plan to shift white and black principals to meet a desegregation mandate.
Lafayette Utilities System employee arrested (2008-04-15)
A 23-year employee of Lafayette Utilities System is on paid leave after being arrested and booked with public contract fraud and malfeasance in office.
Supreme Court to take up death for those who rape children (2008-04-15)
When the news broke last month that a janitor had been arrested and accused of raping boys in the bathroom at an elementary school in Slidell, the issue of justice and retribution became the talk around dinner tables and baseball fields.
Officials try to line up boat for prison workers (2008-04-14)
Officials do NOT expect operations at Louisiana State Penitentiary to be affected today, the day after a boat carrying prison workers collided with a barge on the Mississippi River.
Lawmaker proposes autism center (2008-04-14)
A state lawmaker has proposed legislation that would create a center for autism research and services in Louisiana.
Jindal's office releases report on Guard leader (2008-04-14)
Governor Bobby Jindal's office has released a report by five retired generals who advised Jindal against reappointing the state adjutant general.
Senator Vitter won't testify in sex case (2008-04-14)
A defense attorney says Senator David Vitter will not have to testify about his ties to an upscale Washington escort service.
Corps to open Bonnet Carre Spillway for first time in 11 years (2008-04-11)
With the Mississippi River swollen from heavy rains up North, the Army Corps of Engineers plans to open a spillway north of New Orleans for the first time in eleven years to ease the pressure on levees and spare the area from flooding.
Peach grower fears orchard near its end (2008-04-11)
Mitcham's Peach Orchard of Ruston, the largest grower in Louisiana, is dying.
State senator indicted on fraud, conspiracy charges (2008-04-11)
A federal grand jury has indicted state Senator Derrick Shepherd on charges he conspired to launder money for a convicted felon accused of operating an illegal insurance business.
Southern Universtity wraps up interviews for chancellor (2008-04-11)
Southern University wrapped up its four-day interview marathon of 16 chancellor candidates with two top internal applicants.
Wetlands protection levee breached; Gov. asks disaster declaration (2008-04-10)
Waves have eaten a chunk 5 feet deep and 10 to 12 feet wide in a 6-foot wetlands protection levee near Montegut. Officials in Terrebonne parish says they have set aside $35,000 to plug the hole with rocks before the winds change and waters rise higher.
Jindal's office dismisses suggestions made by retired generals (2008-04-10)
Governor Bobby Jindal's office has dismissed suggestions made by a group of retired generals appointed by Jindal to review the Louisiana National Guard's operations _ and has refused to release the report the group produced.
School bus operators may get more money (2008-04-10)
School bus operators would get a $20 million increase in their state maintenance allowance under a bill that won approval in a House panel over objections from Gov. Bobby Jindal's administration.
La. river levees under heightened watch (2008-04-07)
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has upped its surveillance of Louisiana's Mississippi River levees as the swollen river's level continues to rise.
Jury selection to begin in alleged D.C. madam case (2008-04-07)
Jury selection is scheduled to begin today in U.S. District Court in Washington for the trial of the alleged D.C. madam, Deborah Palfrey.
Lafayette testing rental inspection plan (2008-04-07)
Lafayette city-parish officials are testing a new inspection program for rental property. It's a plan to hold both tenants and landowners accountable for not maintaining homes and property appropriately.
Bill would revamp museum board (2008-04-07)
State Senator Edwin Murray of New Orleans has filed a bill at the request of Lieutenant Governor Mitch Landrieu that would reduce the number of members of the State Museum Board from 20 to 11. The bill would authorize the lieutenant governor to name all of them. That would take away the governor's power to appoint most of the board as is done now.
Ag chief warns of scam targeting farmers (2008-04-04)
Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain says an e-mail scam is targeting U.S. farmers.
Economist: New Orleans likely to avoid worst of national slowdown (2008-04-04)
First the good news.
Money and jobs generated by Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts will likely shield the New Orleans region from a major blow in an expected national recession.
Changes to pit bull ban on Welsh council agenda (2008-04-04)
Welsh city officials will vote next month on whether to amend its pit bull ban to give owners more time to prove their dog is a breed other than a pit bull or to challenge the ban in court.
Suit against insurers over Katrina damage stays in federal court (2008-04-03)
A sweeping lawsuit that accuses some of the nation's largest insurance companies of conspiring to shortchange Louisiana policyholders after hurricanes Katrina and Rita is staying in federal court.
Budget cut brewing in St. Bernard Parish (2008-04-03)
With federal disaster aid starting to dry up, Saint Bernard Parish President Craig Taffaro said the parish faces a looming budget crunch that could force several million dollars in spending cuts.
Judge blocks campaign ad (2008-04-03)
A state judge has forbidden Steve Scalise to air an advertisement that portrays Tim Burns, his Republican opponent in the 1st Congressional District race, as soft on crime.
Tucker: No 3rd special session planned (2008-04-02)
Despite references to a possible third special session this year, House Speaker Jim Tucker said he knows of no plans to call lawmakers back this fall
La adds jobs, unemployment rate below national average (2008-04-02)
Louisiana ended February with 34,000 more jobs than it had a year earlier, with the government sector showing the greatest increase over the year.
Monsanto investing in Louisiana facility (2008-04-02)
Agricultural products producer Monsanto said today it will invest up to 196 million dollars over the next 18 months at a manufacturing facility in Luling.
Lafayette doctor wants evidence thrown out (2008-04-02)
A cardiologist facing health care fraud charges wants much of the evidence against him thrown out.
Police: Arrested woman only thought she was calling drug dealer (2008-04-01)
Worried that the car they had pulled over was stolen, two Lake Charles police officers called the owner and left a message. Apparently thinking that the message had come from a drug dealer, the owner returned the call and was later arrested for allegedly trying to buy crack cocaine.
Shreveport lawmaker walks to Capitol (2008-04-01)
Representative Patrick Williams has arrived at the Capitol after completing a nine-day, 226-mile walk from Shreveport.
DOJ: Jefferson prosecution will proceed (2008-04-01)
The Supreme Court has refused to step into a high-stakes legal fight between the Justice Department and indicted Representative William Jefferson over the unprecedented raid on the lawmaker's Capitol Hill office.
Jindal opens regular legislative session (2008-04-01)
Governor Bobby Jindal's plans to help Louisiana's economy by providing workers with the training and education that employers need.
Lawmakers return Monday for wide-open regular session (2008-03-31)
Governor Bobby Jindal's agenda for the regular legislative session that begins today centers on a revamp of worker training. But lawmakers are offering a hodgepodge of other ideas that touch on crime, education, spending and more.
Jury selection in Razzoo death starts today (2008-03-31)
The first of four men charged with manslaughter in the death of a Georgia college student outside a Bourbon Street night is set to face trial today in Lake Charles.
Duson landfill closed (2008-03-31)
A landfill near Duson will not be able to reopen until it comes into compliance with all aspects of a city-parish ordinance.
New prescription device to save state millions (2008-03-28)
State health officials say an electronic prescription system will provide better care and cost savings for Louisiana Medicaid patients.
New Orleans panel to study school services (2008-03-28)
A new committee will look for ways the Recovery School District, the Orleans Parish School Board and the city's network of charters can consolidate their services, work together to cut costs and plot out the education landscape of the future.
Guest workers from India demand reforms (2008-03-28)
Some Indian workers who say they were lured to the Gulf Coast by false job promises after Hurricane Katrina have complained in Washington.
LSU to buy site for hospital (2008-03-28)
LSU will have property purchased for a new hospital in Baton Rouge by summer.
Engineer society flap reinvigorates call for new levee commission (2008-03-27)
Accusations that the nation's foremost civil engineering society covered up catastrophic design flaws in national disasters has reinvigorated calls for Congress to set up a 9/11-style commission to investigate what caused the flooding of New Orleans.
Louisiana listed as 2nd-unhealthiest state (2008-03-27)
According to a report by CQ Press, Louisiana is the second unhealthiest state in the country.
Economic Development chief: major auto maker looks at NE La. site (2008-03-27)
The state's economic development secretary says a major automaker has a northeast Louisiana location under consideration for a new assembly factory.
Nagin OKs permit to demolish Lafitte public housing complex (2008-03-25)
Another of the decades-old public housing developments in New Orleans is a step closer to being dismantled.
Taylor Energy asset sale complete (2008-03-25)
Taylor Energy has completed a deal to sell its energy assets to a Korean joint venture.
FEMA commits to paying Katrina overtime to fire district (2008-03-25)
Jefferson Parish fire districts have secured a $540,000 commitment from the Federal Emergency Management Agency for disputed overtime pay from Hurricane Katrina.
Angola guard faces inmate sex count (2008-03-25)
West Feliciana Parish sheriff's deputies arrested a state penitentiary guard after he was accused of a sexual act with an inmate.
Founder of Popeyes fried chicken chain dies at 64 (2008-03-24)
The man who became rich selling spicy Popeyes Famous Fried Chicken has died.
State construction projects approved, but in a holding pattern (2008-03-24)
Lawmakers and former Gov. Kathleen Blanco approved an array of construction projects for state financing, and the State Bond Commission gave nearly $1.5 billion of them non-cash lines of credit _ a commitment to pay for them in later years. Most of the projects are in a holding pattern as Gov. Bobby Jindal's administration determines whether to proceed with them and how to afford them. A few of the items on the list:
Lawmakers consider construction budget revamp (2008-03-24)
Louisiana's state construction budget has been open to sharp criticism for years. Generally, more projects are budgeted than there's money to pay for them.
Ex-East Baton Rouge sheriff's deputy arrested (2008-03-21)
A former East Baton Rouge Parish sheriff's deputy is accused of illegally accessing one of the law enforcement agency's servers and stealing more than $10,000 worth of software and office equipment.
Contract awarded to make levee larger (2008-03-21)
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has awarded a 14.6 million dollar contract to enlarge a section of earthen levee that protects the West Bank of the Mississippi River from storm surges.
New Orleans City Council passes tougher blight rules (2008-03-21)
The New Orleans City Council has passed a new ordinance in an effort to put blighted properties back into commerce more efficiently and provide stricter building code enforcement.
Jury convicts man in fatal crash (2008-03-21)
A jury has convicted a Lafayette man in a fatal wreck that some witnesses blamed on street racing but that he blamed on a reckless driver that cut in front of him.
Louisiana watchdog announces fraud hot line (2008-03-20)
Louisiana's new inspector general announced a hot line for reporting waste, fraud and wrongdoing in state government.
Coastal agency approves financing proposal (2008-03-20)
The Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority has agreed to send to the Legislature a fiscal year 2009 financing plan that would provide 80.5 million dollars for levee projects and 143.5 million dollars for coastal restoration.
Lafayette council approves funding for jail fire alarm system (2008-03-20)
The Lafayette City-Parish Council has agreed to allocate $231,000 for a new fire alarm system at the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center.
Appeal court hears arguments in ex-Ag commissioner's case (2008-03-20)
A state appeal court has heard arguments on whether criminal charges against former Agriculture Commissioner Bob Odom should be reinstated after a state judge threw them out last year.
Bids in for Wednesday's offshore Gulf lease sale (2008-03-19)
With oil prices again pushing $110 a barrel, 78 petroleum exploration companies have put up 1,057 bids on 615 tracts in the central Gulf of Mexico.
St. Bernard councilman resigns (2008-03-19)
Saint Bernard Parish Council Chairman Tony ``Ricky'' Melerine is resigning.
Fisheries revival plans get state money (2008-03-19)
State officials have announced a long-awaited program that will pour 19 million dollars into public docks, ice houses, processing plants and other projects aimed at reviving the state's battered fishing industry.
Report: Louisiana 2nd most dangerous state (2008-03-19)
A CQ Press crime rankings report finds Louisiana was the second most dangerous state in the nation in 2006.
Raises urged for state workers (2008-03-18)
The state government's employment agency is trying to increase the base pay of thousands of government workers.
`Angola Three' lawsuit pending in federal court (2008-03-18)
An attorney says a federal trial could start this summer for three men who claim they are victims of cruel and unusual punishment because of the decades they spent in isolation cells at the Louisiana State Penitentiary.
`Angola Three' lawsuit pending in federal court (2008-03-18)
An attorney says a federal trial could start this summer for three men who claim they are victims of cruel and unusual punishment because of the decades they spent in isolation cells at the Louisiana State Penitentiary.
Shaw gets Navy contract for base cleanups (2008-03-18)
The Shaw Group says its environmental division is one of four companies awarded contracts to perform environmental remediation work for the U.S. Navy.
`Angola Three' lawsuit pending in federal court (2008-03-18)
An attorney says a federal trial could start this summer for three men who claim they are victims of cruel and unusual punishment because of the decades they spent in isolation cells at the Louisiana State Penitentiary.
`Angola Three' lawsuit pending in federal court (2008-03-18)
An attorney says a federal trial could start this summer for three men who claim they are victims of cruel and unusual punishment because of the decades they spent in isolation cells at the Louisiana State Penitentiary.
Terrebonne storm protection system stalled (2008-03-17)
After getting congressional approval last year after 15 years of planning, Terrebonne Parish's plan for a hurricane protection system from Morganza to the Gulf of Mexico has stalled.
Unclear how settlement on Lafayette police, fire pay to be funded (2008-03-17)
As negotiations continue on a possible settlement to a nine-year-old lawsuit involving pay for Lafayette fire and law enforcement workers, officials are still trying to figure out who will pay for it.
Food bank association to ask lawmakers for $15 million (2008-03-17)
The Louisiana Food Bank Association, along with its five regional food banks, is preparing to ask state lawmakers to spend 15 million dollars to fight a hunger problem made worse by hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Feds say man dealt drugs on university campus (2008-03-14)
A federal grand jury has charged a 23-year-old River Ridge man with dealing large amounts of crack cocaine on the campus of Southern University in New Orleans.
Ethics Board clears New Roads mayor (2008-03-14)
The Louisiana Board of Ethics decided on a 7-4 vote that then-City Councilman Tommy Nelson of New Roads committed no violation by taking part in discussions at three council meetings leading to a much-higher salary for himself by the time he took office as mayor.
Outside management company is getting rich (2008-03-14)
Two and a half years after Hurricane Katrina, tens of thousands of miserable homeowners are still waiting for their government rebuilding checks. Many complain they can't even get their calls returned. But the company that holds the big contract to distribute the aid is doing quite well for itself.
Jindal's second special session nearing an end (2008-03-14)
Bills to divvy up a 1 billion dollar state surplus and to dole out business tax breaks continued speeding through the Louisiana Legislature, as lawmakers hoped to end early the second special session called by Governor Bobby Jindal.
Lawmakers still awaiting details on Jindal's "school choice" plan (2008-03-13)
Lawmakers say they're awaiting details from Governor Bobby Jindal's administration about a budget recommendation to spend 10 million dollars next year on a new "School Choice Initiative" that would let students use state money to attend private and parochial schools in New Orleans.
Jindal administration opposes Senate's version of private schools tax break (2008-03-13)
The Senate expanded Governor Bobby Jindal's proposal for a tax break for parents yesterday, triggering opposition from the Jindal administration because its cost to the state budget is unclear.
Documents feed debate on FEMA trailers (2008-03-13)
Federal officials issued trailers to Hurricane Katrina victims even though some workplace safety tests detected high levels of formaldehyde at government staging areas for the structures just weeks after the storm.
Jindal's business tax plan sailing through the La. Legislature (2008-03-13)
Governor Bobby Jindal's plans to reduce business taxes are meeting little resistance in the Legislature.
Pharmaceuticals found in drinking water (2008-03-10)
An Associated Press investigation has found a vast array of pharmaceuticals in the drinking water supplies of at least 41 million Americans.
Conflict in fed. rulings over hurricane insurance worth big bucks (2008-03-10)
Conflicting rulings by federal judges in New Orleans and Lake Charles are having major effects on how much money homeowners can collect on damage from the 2005 hurricanes, and there is no quick end to the conflict in sight.
178 houses in New Orleans to help renters (2008-03-10)
A tidy, one-story house recently completed in a blighted part of New Orleans is part of a new rent-to-own program for poor to moderate-income people.
2 post offices opening in New Orleans (2008-03-07)
Two post office branches shuttered since Hurricane Katrina will be reopened in the flood-ravaged Lakeview and Gentilly neighborhoods of New Orleans by the end of the year.
Agencies solicit public to report marine debris (2008-03-07)
A coalition of federal and state agencies is urging the public to report debris from hurricanes Katrina and Rita that continues to litter Louisiana's waterways and pose a threat to commercial and recreational boats.
Deseg order complicates state takeover of Pointe Coupee school (2008-03-07)
The state's plan to take over the poorly performing Pointe Coupee Central High School is headed to federal court because the school is still under a federal desegregation order.
Jindal proposing $75,000 hike for economic development secretary (2008-03-06)
Governor Bobby Jindal's seeking salary increases for three of his cabinet secretaries, with a nearly $75,000 pay bump proposed for his economic development chief.
Jindal education proposals opposed by teacher unions (2008-03-06)
Teacher unions say Gov. Bobby Jindal's education proposals will steer money from public schools and won't offer adequate pay for teachers or support workers.
Judge declines action against defense team in Angola 5 case (2008-03-06)
A state district judge has declined to take action against an Angola inmate's defense team for looking at prosecutors' notes that were supposed to kept under seal for the judge's review.
Longtime state Sen. B.B. ``Sixty'' Rayburn dead at 91 (2008-03-06)
Former state Senator B.B. ``Sixty'' Rayburn of Bogalusa will be buried on Saturday at Palestine Baptist Church in Washington Parish. Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Poole-Ritchie Funeral Home in Bogalusa.
Crawfish harvest limited (2008-03-05)
A group of crawfish farmers have agreed to stop harvesting two days a week in an effort to tighten supplies in the face of falling wholesale prices.
Ascension teachers to get 5 percent raise (2008-03-05)
The Ascension Parish School Board has voted to raise teacher pay 5 percent.
Few changes in Louisiana's school district ratings (2008-03-05)
The latest ratings for Louisiana's school districts don't show much difference from the previous year's.
A look at Gov. Jindal's proposals for a special session to begin Sunday (2008-03-05)
Governor Bobby Jindal outlined his agenda Tuesday for his second special legislative session, to begin Sunday and last up to three weeks. The governor is pushing for an array of mainly business tax breaks and $1.1 billion in spending plans.
Morial associate charged with failure to file tax return (2008-03-04)
Roy Rodney, a friend and close associate of former Mayor Marc Morial, has been charged in a bill of information with a misdemeanor count of failing to file income tax returns.
Nagin urges Jindal to fund N.O. projects (2008-03-04)
New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin has asked Governor Bobby Jindal to spend part of the state's 1.1 billion dollar surplus on city projects.
LSU panel opens search for new chancellor (2008-03-04)
The search is officially under way for a new chancellor at LSU.
Some trailer brands more toxic, says CDC Gulf Coast probe (2008-03-04)
Federal health officials have released the first brand-specific information about which trailer homes provided to Gulf Coast hurricane victims had the highest levels of toxic fumes.
Delta Queen could be docked without federal fire exemption (2008-03-03)
The Delta Queen could be making its final voyages along the Mississippi and Ohio rivers if the old steamboat doesn't get a federal fire exemption later this year.
New Orleans bus fleet getting an upgrade (2008-03-03)
An aging bus fleet in New Orleans is about to get a major upgrade
LSU law school renovations under question (2008-03-03)
Some renovations ordered by the former chancellor of the Louisiana State University law school are under review.
Research group: Critical flood risk study for New Orleans overdue, plagued by errors (2008-02-29)
An independent research group says the Army Corps of Engineers is taking much too long to complete a study that could let victims of Hurricane Katrina know their risk of facing another devastating flood.
U.N. finding of discrimination in Katrina recovery mostly ignored (2008-02-29)
New Orleans advocates who've clamored for recognition of alleged human rights violations in the Hurricane Katrina recovery claimed victory. That after United Nations' experts said thousands of black families would continue to suffer displacement and homelessness if the demolition of 4,500 public housing units is not halted.
Control of hurricane cottage program shifts (2008-02-29)
Governor Bobby Jindal has shifted control of a hurricane recovery housing program aimed at putting ``Louisiana Cottages'' around the state.
Jindal proposing teacher pay increase for next year (2008-02-28)
In his budget recommendations for next year, Governor Bobby Jindal will propose a continued push among state officials to keep public school teacher pay comparable to the salaries of teachers in the Southern region.
La. Democrats asked to pick national delegates Saturday (2008-02-28)
Louisiana Democrats will elect 37 of the state's delegates to the Democratic National Convention in Saturday balloting.
Probation for New Orleans activist (2008-02-28)
Housing activist Robert Green -- who has been a leader in efforts to rebuild New Orleans' Lower 9th Ward after Hurricane Katrina -- has been sentenced to five years of probation for his role in a loan fraud scheme.
In attack ad, David Duke's name enters La. GOP congressional race (2008-02-28)
The name of former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke has appeared in the race for Baton Rouge's open congressional seat, in an advertisement attacking candidate Woody Jenkins.
Jindal special ethics session adjourns; wins, losses for governor (2008-02-27)
Governor Bobby Jindal proposed more than 60 items in a special legislative session on ethics that ended Tuesday. Jindal won the larger bills he sought but lost some of his other proposals, and lawmakers who offered tougher bills also failed to get passage.
A look at the outcome of the special session:
Names must be a part of third party group ads (2008-02-27)
Third-party groups who run political ads or send out political mailers would have to put their names on those ads to identify themselves, under a bill sent to the governor's desk.
N.O. watchdog pleased with session, plans to move forward (2008-02-27)
New Orleans Inspector General Robert Cerasoli says he's pleased with legislation passed during an ethics legislative session that bolsters his office's subpoena powers, even though a judge must sign off on any request to subpoena documents first.
Bribery case began with trade mission to Africa in 1990s (2008-02-27)
During President Clinton's trip to Africa in 1998, Representative William Jefferson joined the cadre of politicians, press advisers, trade experts and foreign diplomats aboard Air Force One.
Lawmakers say the gov. should be able to fire inspector general (2008-02-26)
A panel of lawmakers agreed that the governor should be able to fire the inspector general, but only with agreement from the Legislature.
Lawmakers hope to wrap up today (2008-02-26)
Lawmakers hope to wrap up their work today in a special legislative session on ethics, after hashing out agreements on the major bills sought by Governor Bobby Jindal in legislative compromise committees.
Feds introduce online money-tracking tool (2008-02-26)
The federal government introduced a Web-based mapping tool that officials say would be a valuable resource in tracking public funding for rebuilding initiatives and schools recovering after Hurricane Katrina.
Two key Katrina insurance cases go before Louisiana's high court (2008-02-26)
A pair of cases with high-stakes implications for Louisiana's insurance market are scheduled to be heard today by the state's highest court. Both cases going before the Louisiana Supreme Court involve disputes over policy language between insurance companies and property owners after hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Ethics session could end early (2008-02-25)
Legislative leaders say they expect to wrap up the current special session on ethics before next Saturday's deadline.
FEMA extends demolition deadline (2008-02-25)
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has extended by six months the deadline under which it will pay for the demolition of hurricane-damaged buildings.
St. Tammany deputy killed in wreck (2008-02-25)
Covington Police say a Saint Tammany Parish Sheriff's deputy was killed when his motorcycle struck a pickup that had been parked in a traffic lane on U.S. Highway 190 by an intoxicated driver.
FEMA will test trailers at residents' request (2008-02-25)
Residents of FEMA trailers who want their units tested for formaldehyde will have that opportunity.
Panel kills bill on taking convicted felons' pensions (2008-02-22)
A Senate pane has effectively killed the legislation that would take state pensions away from convicted felons.
Leaders back plan to 'adjust' LEAP test (2008-02-22)
State education leaders are lining up behind a new plan that would make it easier for eighth-graders to pass a key state exam, possibly this year. The test is the Louisiana Educational Assessment Program, or LEAP. It is designed to make sure students master basic skills in math and English.
Pastorek To Receive Pay Raise (2008-02-22)
State Superintendent of Education Paul Pastorek has landed an increase of about $50,000 to his nearly $300,000 annual pay package.
Bond Commission OKs incentives to build sugar mill in Reserve (2008-02-22)
The State Bond Commission has unanimously approved 100 million dollars in incentives to build a sugar refinery in Reserve.
Our Lady of the Lake begins $15M expansion (2008-02-21)
Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center will begin construction next month on a 15 million dollar expansion of St. Mary's Tower. The hospital will be adding capacity for pediatric, orthopedic and trauma surgery services at its Baton Rouge complex.
Marijuana operation found in Abita Springs (2008-02-21)
Saint Tammany Parish sheriff's deputies searched a home in Abita Springs suspected of being used to grow 2.5 million dollars in marijuana annually and believed to be the starting pointing of a drug distribution chain reaching across the eastern United States.
Protest over FEMA's moving policy (2008-02-21)
Hurricane Katrina victims picketed in front of FEMA's Baton Rouge office to protest what they say is the U.S. government's unfair treatment of evacuees who live in temporary trailers possibly contaminated with formaldehyde.
$20M gift planned for Gentilly (2008-02-21)
The founder of Barnes & Noble bookstores will spend 20 million dollars from his private foundation to build and renovate homes in devastated Gentilly, an initiative that will match and possibly exceed the investment Brad Pitt's charity has made in the Lower 9th Ward.
Report outlines problems for state insurer after 2005 storms (2008-02-20)
A report for the state Insurance Department shows that the state-sponsored ``insurer of last resort'' had trouble handling claims for hurricanes Katrina and Rita because it was switching to new outside contractors and activating a new computer system when the 2005 storms hit.
Enrollment of 4-year-olds soaring in preschool classes (2008-02-20)
A report shows the enrollment of Louisiana 4-year-olds in preschool classes has skyrocketed in the past five years and now totals 96 percent of children from poor families.
Dire Gulf forecast may be fishy (2008-02-20)
New research from LSU fisheries scientists say dire predictions about the long-term health of fish species in the Gulf of Mexico and worldwide may be overblown.
New Orleans public housing demolition sets stage for protests (2008-02-20)
Demolition crews are tearing down a large public housing complex at the center of a fight over what direction New Orleans will take to house the poor dislocated by Hurricane Katrina.
Senator Clinton to speak at N.O. symposium (2008-02-19)
Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton will be in New Orleans Saturday as part of Tavis Smiley's State of the Black Union symposium on education, health, housing and other issues affecting African-Americans.
Southern University law center expansion starts (2008-02-19)
Southern University is breaking ground on a 4.1 million dollar expansion of A.A. Lenoir Hall, with the first upgrade of its law center since 1994 when the present 85,000-square-foot building was dedicated.
FEMA-funded demolitions making way for New Orleans jail buildings (2008-02-19)
Demolition has begun on three jail buildings damaged by Hurricane Katrina, making way for a new facility that Orleans Parish Criminal Sheriff Marlin Gusman said will provide services and programs to help inmates.
Ascension justice of peace suspended (2008-02-19)
Ascension Parish Justice of the Peace Jamie Frederic Braud has been suspended by the Louisiana Supreme Court for ethics violations.
Jindal has about $600,000 left after transition (2008-02-18)
Governor Bobby Jindal has about $600,000 after paying for his transition and inauguration. Spokeswoman Melissa Sellers says Jindal has not decided how to spend the money.
New Orleans' heritage shines at All-Star game (2008-02-18)
A city that lives on tourism couldn't buy advertising this good.
McCain picks up majority of La delegates (2008-02-18)
Although former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee won Louisiana's primary, Senator John McCain has the support of most of the state's delegates to the Republican National Convention.
Troopers shoot suspect in hit-and-run (2008-02-18)
State troopers who knocked on the door of a Baton Rouge house to question the man inside about a traffic accident shot the man in the groin after he came to the door brandishing a shotgun.
Raw stats show rise in violent N.O. crime (2008-02-15)
Crime statistics for the fourth quarter of 2007, show a 25 percent increase in violent crime in New Orleans over last year in raw numbers, but no increase on a per-capita basis, compared with the same period last year.
Fort Polk soldier killed during training exercise (2008-02-15)
A Fort Polk soldier has died of injuries received during a training accident at the base.
Former levee chief, employer fined (2008-02-15)
The state Board of Ethics has fined former Orleans Levee District Commission President Jim Huey and his Gretna telecommunications employer $1,000 each for compensation Huey received for company services to the district while he held public office.
Grand jury indicts homeless man for murder of police officer (2008-02-15)
A New Orleans grand jury today charged Bernel P. Johnson with one count of first-degree murder of police officer Nicola Cotton.
Hurricane victims urged to move after tests find toxic levels of formaldehyde fumes (2008-02-14)
U.S. health officials are urging that Gulf Coast hurricane victims be moved out of their government-issued trailers as quickly as possible after tests found toxic levels of formaldehyde fumes.
Dredging requirements could add to cost of coastal restoration (2008-02-14)
The federal body that oversees use of the Mississippi River is insisting that the Army Corps of Engineers and the state of Louisiana pay for increased dredging of the river that will be needed because of planned coastal erosion projects.
Powell: Fed recovery chief an ongoing need for Gulf Coast (2008-02-14)
The federal coordinator of Gulf Coast rebuilding says he's seen a ``new spirit'' in New Orleans in the last three months, with local residents demanding change and getting involved like never before.
Recovery School District gets advance on FEMA money (2008-02-13)
The cash-strapped New Orleans Recovery School District has secured a 50 million dollar line of credit to settle its outstanding bills, mostly for construction, and to finance future construction.
LTC classes set to resume today (2008-02-13)
Classes are scheduled to resume at 8 a.m. today at Louisiana Technical College's Baton Rouge campus, the site of three fatal shootings last week in a second-floor classroom.
LSU, SU enrollment drop (2008-02-13)
LSU and Southern University are continuing to suffer enrollment dips this spring, while university officials are promising to get student numbers back on the upswing.
Problems plague Katrina buyouts (2008-02-13)
An effort to take possession of thousands of lots from Hurricane Katrina victims who chose to sell their property to the state has run into numerous problems -- including the eviction of 50 people who still believed they owned their property.
Shilpbuilding Company Returns to New Orleans (2008-02-12)
A shipbuilding company forced to leave New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina destroyed its shipyard has returned to the city.
Free tickets get the boot (2008-02-12)
Senators began working through some of Governor Bobby Jindal's ethics proposals, with a Senate committee approving a bill to ban lawmakers from receiving free tickets to sports and cultural events.
New deduction on 2007 state income taxes (2008-02-12)
The biggest change in the state income tax return this year will affect about 20 percent of filers and stems from the so-called Stelly plan tax swap.
Journalism Prof. d'Hemecourt, voice in `Cajun' recordings, dies (2008-02-12)
Jules d'Hemecourt IV, a retired LSU journalism professor and the voice behind the recording ``The 12 Cajun Days of Christmas,'' has died. He was 64.
Pinnacle wins high-dollar casino brawl (2008-02-11)
Pinnacle Entertainment swept 82 percent of East Baton Rouge Parish's precincts as they cruised to a double-digit win for its proposed 250 million dollar casino.
Mourners gather to pay tribute to slain students (2008-02-11)
Mourners clutching candles gathered last night to remember the nursing students slain in their classroom at Louisiana Technical College.
Various Acadiana officials caught speeding by Lafayette cameras (2008-02-11)
The Lafayette program that uses vans manned with cameras to nab speeding drivers isn't just catching civilians.
Terra to restart ammonia facility (2008-02-08)
Terra Industries plans to restart annual production of 400,000 tons of ammonia later this year in a 10 million dollar expansion that will create 20 to 25 new jobs in Donaldsonville.
Attorney: Arrest may complicate 'Jena Six' case (2008-02-08)
The recent arrest of a ``Jena Six'' defendant in connection with an altercation at his Dallas-area high school has his attorney a little worried.
Judge refuses to toss out indictment against La. congressman (2008-02-07)
A judge has refused to toss out an indictment against a Louisiana congressman accused of taking bribes, rejecting the argument that the indictment unconstitutionally infringed on his privileges as a congressman.
Jindal appoints 3 new members to the pardon board, reappoints 2 (2008-02-07)
Governor Bobby Jindal has named five people to the state board that considers applications for pardons and sentence commutations, selecting a former lawmaker and longtime Grant Parish sheriff among its new members. The governor selects the entire five-member Board of Pardons.
Houston-based agency to provide hurricane housing help (2008-02-07)
The federal government has chosen a small Houston agency to help more than one-third of the families currently getting housing assistance after they were displaced by hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Fire partially destroys historic Shady Grove (2008-02-06)
One of Beauregard Parish's most historic buildings went up in flames overnight.
U.S. Highway 61 bridge damaged (2008-02-06)
Motorists traveling on U.S. Highway 61 through West Feliciana Parish today should be prepared for a possible time-consuming detour around a bridge that nearly collapsed Monday night.
New Orleans winds down from Mardi Gras as faithful prepare to repent (2008-02-06)
Mardi Gras is over and now thousands of people who've been partying in New Orleans are preparing to repent.
Riley: String of parade shootings blamed on "thugs" (2008-02-05)
New Orleans Police Superintendent Warren Riley says the five parade-relating shootings that left nine people wounded ranks the 2008 Carnival season as the city's worst in three years, even though none of the injured suffered life-threatening injuries.
Baton Rouge casinos slug it out before Saturday's vote (2008-02-05)
Pinnacle Entertainment and the two existing Baton Rouge riverboat casinos spent nearly 3 million dollars last month to duke it out over Pinnacle's plan to build a casino in south Baton Rouge.
Bush proposal maintains state cost-share for levee work (2008-02-05)
President Bush is recommending nearly $5.8 billion in federal money for levee work in the New Orleans area, but the state would have to contribute about $1.5 billion -- a request some Louisiana leaders consider too steep for a region still rebuilding from the 2005 hurricanes.
Democrats will hold Capitol Obama rally (2008-02-04)
Democratic Party officials and community leaders will hold an endorsement rally for presidential hopeful Barack Obama on the steps of the State Capitol on Wednesday, although the candidate is not expected to be present.
Special Session Cost (2008-02-04)
Taxpayers will pay at least $700,000 for Governor Bobby Jindal to deliver on a campaign promise to hold a special legislative session to tackle ethics law changes.
Chalmette High will undergo $50 million expansion (2008-02-04)
When Chalmette High School reopened less than three months after Hurricane Katrina, it was a makeshift campus of trailers and generators.
Hospital system and Blue Cross approve deal (2008-02-01)
The Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana have hammered out a new two-year contract, ensuring that hundreds of thousands of people won't have to find new doctors or hospitals.
LSU students, faculty get update on safety (2008-02-01)
LSU officials have updated students and faculty on the December 13th slaying of two graduate students and campus safety issues.
Federal judge dismisses key Katrina flooding lawsuit (2008-01-31)
A federal judge has thrown out a key class-action lawsuit against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers over flooding damage caused by a levee breach after Hurricane Katrina.
Suspect in officer's shooting caught (2008-01-31)
The man who prompted a cross-state manhunt following the shooting of a Shreveport police officer has been captured.
Qualifying ends Thursday for special congressional elections (2008-01-31)
The formal sign-up period for two south Louisiana congressional races comes to an end this afternoon
Qualifying continues for La.'s special congressional elections (2008-01-30)
Candidates have until tomorrow to officially sign up for March 8th party primaries in two south Louisiana congressional races.
New head of state police wants more troopers on highways (2008-01-30)
The newly appointed leader of Louisiana State Police, Colonel Mike Edmonson, says one of his goals will be to ensure more state police visibility on the highways, including the possible addition of 50 new trooper positions.
Shreveport, La., officer shot day after cop killed in New Orleans (2008-01-30)
A Shreveport police officer who was shot while answering a call about a possible prowler is in serious but stable condition.
State agencies feel chill from Jindal's hiring freeze (2008-01-24)
State agencies from health care to higher education are seeking relief from Governor Bobby Jindal's employee hiring freeze.
Landrieu wants more hurricane aid (2008-01-24)
U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu says Louisiana may once again turn to Congress for hurricane recovery money, this time to pay for the state's 1.5 billion dollar share of boosting hurricane protection around New Orleans.
Stevie Wonder to take stage at 2008 Jazz Fest (2008-01-24)
Stevie Wonder is no stranger to the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival but has never headlined the event _ until now.
Runaway Michigan teens reunite with parents in Louisiana (2008-01-23)
Two love-struck teens who ran away from their Michigan homes have been reunited with their parents in Louisiana.
Dillard University student dies from rare infection (2008-01-23)
Health officials say a Dillard University student has died of a rare blood infection that can spread bacteria throughout the body.
Lighted buoy to mark site where war ship replica sank (2008-01-23)
Donaldsonville Mayor Leroy Sullivan says a marine surveyor has marked the Mississippi River site where a sunken 17th-century replica warship lies with a lighted buoy to help marine traffic avoid striking the abandoned hulk.
I-10 eastbound closed over the Bonnet Carre Spillway (2008-01-22)
An 18-wheeler fire has closed Interstate 10 eastbound over the Bonnet Carre Spillway.
Jindal sets sights on new Cyber Command center (2008-01-22)
Governor Bobby Jindal says that Louisiana can play a leading role in the recent U.S. military focus on defending the country's interests in cyberspace, as long as the state follows through on its commitments to help land a permanent Air Force command.
Dispute raises questions about coverage for hundreds of thousands (2008-01-22)
Come February, hospitals and clinics in the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Health System will no longer be considered ``in-network'' providers for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana _ unless there is a new development in stalled contract negotiations.
Pennington seeking funds (2008-01-22)
Pennington Biomedical Research Center officials are asking the state for dramatically more public dollars during the next five years.
Church shooting witness in protective custody (2008-01-16)
State prosecutors say the lone survivor of a 2006 shooting spree is in protective custody outside Louisiana amid concerns for her safety in a case against a man accused of murder.
Strain pulling Ag employees off construction projects (2008-01-16)
Louisiana's new agriculture commissioner, Mike Strain, wasted no time in ending his department's much criticized use of non-construction employees for major building projects.
Southern plans to begin search for chancellor (2008-01-16)
Southern University System President Ralph Slaughter says the search is under way for a new chancellor.
9 business leaders support O'Keefe in newspaper ad (2008-01-15)
A full-page advertisement in today's editions of Baton Rouge's daily newspaper touts LSU Chancellor Michael O'Keefe as ``a treasure'' with a history of success, and it questions why O'Keefe's job may be in jeopardy.
Representative Baker not seeking re-election (2008-01-15)
U.S Representative Richard Baker has decided not to seek re-election. Baker made the announcement Tuesday on radio station WJBO's ``Morning News.''
Jindal Sworn in As Governor (2008-01-15)
Republican Bobby Jindal has taken office as Louisiana's 55th governor.
La. has used most of aid, LRA reports (2008-01-15)
Seventy percent of the nearly 63 billion in federal funds allocated for Louisiana's recovery from hurricanes Katrina and Rita has been spent
Lafayette General pays $1.9 million for inaction in false claims (2008-01-14)
Federal prosecutors say Lafayette General Medical Center will pay 1.9 million dollars to settle allegations that the hospital did not act on complaints that a doctor there was defrauding insurers for unnecessary heart procedures.
Ethics report due out this week (2008-01-14)
A 71-page report on Louisiana's ethics laws that's due to be released this week is ``very beefy and very detailed.'' That's according to Sean Reilly, who headed Governor-elect Bobby Jindal's transition advisory council on the subject.
St. Martinville mayor worries `sagging' law could lead to lawsuit (2008-01-14)
Saint Martinville's mayor is worried that his town -- if it joins several other Louisiana municipalities in passing a law against sagging pants -- might face a lawsuit for enforcing it.
Inauguration marks beginning of new administration (2008-01-14)
At noon today, Baton Rouge native Bobby Jindal is scheduled to be sworn in as Louisiana's 55th governor.
25 laid off at St. Landry Sheriff's Office (2008-01-08)
Employees say Saint Landry Parish Sheriff Bobby Guidroz has laid off about 25 employees, citing budgetary problems.
State Farm wants proof hurricane-hit homes won't be left vacant (2008-01-08)
State Farm is warning that it will cancel homeowner policies for about 6,000 of its customers in south Louisiana if they aren't able to demonstrate that their storm-damaged homes are occupied and are being rebuilt.
La. ranked No. 1 in home inspection (2008-01-08)
Louisiana ranks first in the nation for a measure that combines government, consumers and business.
Natural gas well rupture reported (2008-01-08)
Contractors are working to plug a Cameron Parish natural gas well that ruptured yesterday.
Dr. Phil's visit to Britney Spears is being criticized (2008-01-07)
Dr. Phil is being criticized for visiting Britney Spears when she was in the hospital over the weekend.
Top brokers report record-setting sales for BCS game (2008-01-07)
One of the teams, either LSU or Ohio State, playing in tonight's BCS championship game, will be disappointed as they leave the Superdome.
Lafayette school board likely to begin superintendent search in spring (2008-01-07)
It could be several months before Lafayette Parish School Board members begin a search for a new superintendent.
Tulane to study 'Katrina cough' (2008-01-07)
Is Katrina cough a legitimate new ailment or run-of-the-mill allergy?
Storms put dent in Iowa's salt supply (2008-01-07)
A steady supply of snow and ice storms is putting a serious dent in Iowa's supply of salt.
Businessman says O'Keefe's job in jeopardy at LSU; urges support (2008-01-04)
The (Baton Rouge) Advocate reports today that an Alexandria businessman has sent e-mail to other Louisiana business leaders saying LSU Chancellor Sean O'Keefe's job future is uncertain.
Spears taken from home by ambulance after custody dispute (2008-01-04)
Britney Spears is reportedly hospitalized in Los Angeles after being taken from her home in an ambulance last night. The emergency trip follows a three-hour dispute over the custody of her young children.
75 restaurants added to last year's Zagat list (2008-01-04)
Zagat Survey has released its 2008 New Orleans dining and entertainment guide which updates last year's survey to add 75 restaurants that have either reopened or are new since Hurricane Katrina.
La. gets $5.7 billion for reconstruction work (2008-01-03)
FEMA has awarded 9 billion dollars-plus in infrastructure funds to state and local governments along the hurricane-damaged Gulf Coast, including more than 5.7 billion in Louisiana.
Ex-Insurance chief Wooley, others facing ethics charges (2008-01-03)
Former state Insurance Commissioner Robert Wooley faces state ethics charges for going on hunting and fishing trips as the guest of a private insurance consultant.
Natural gas well continues to burn in DeSoto Parish (2008-01-03)
A burning natural gas well in Frierson is not expected to be snuffed out today.
More shelter space opens for Orleans homeless as freeze nears (2008-01-02)
Homeless shelters opened more spaces in New Orleans as forecasters said temperatures would fall below freezing this morning.
Enrollment for state's technical schools growing (2008-01-02)
The growth rate of enrollment at the Louisiana Technical College River Parishes campus in Reserve was the second highest in the nation for colleges of its type and size in 2006.
Bad batch of oysters make Chattanooga diner ill (2008-01-02)
Tennessee health officials say a bad batch of oysters at an unnamed Chattanooga restaurant made seven people ill.
Corps won't meet December deadline for coastal protection plan (2007-12-28)
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers won't meet its December deadline to provide Congress a plan on how to protect coastal Louisiana from Category 5 hurricanes.
The Shaw Group says SEC has ended inquiry with no action (2007-12-28)
The Shaw Group said today that an informal inquiry by the Securities and Exchange Commission into the company has ended with no recommendation for any enforcement action.
Forbes survey: Louisiana 47th in 'green' practices, needs plan (2007-12-28)
According to a survey that compared air quality and environmental policies, Louisiana is one of the country's most polluting and least energy-efficient states.
Uninsured numbers decline in state (2007-12-26)
A strong state economy and the post-hurricane population shift have combined to reduce both the number and percentage of Louisianians who lack health insurance.
Reward lowered in LSU slayings (2007-12-26)
With the midnight Christmas Eve deadline passed, the enhanced Crime Stoppers reward for information leading to arrests and indictments in the killing of two LSU graduate students is back at $1,000.
DeSoto evacuation now expected to last at least another week (2007-12-26)
DeSoto Parish Sheriff Rodney Arbuckle says it will take at least another week to extinguish a fire at a natural gas well blowout near Frierson that has forced the evacuation of 15 families.
25 percent get nothing from Road Home (2007-12-26)
A new report finds that 25 percent of Road Home applicants who showed up for an initial eligibility interview are either ineligible, considered inactive or unlikely to ever qualify for a grant.
Homelessness in La.-Part 5 (2007-12-21)
WRKF's Karen Henderson wraps up this series with a look at one community's efforts to end homelessness. She talks with the head of the Capitol Areas Alliance For Homelessness, Randy Nichols.
Homelessness in La.-Part 4 (2007-12-20)
WRKF's Karen Henderson takes a look at the growing problem of homelessness among veterans. They make up 11 percent of the adult population but one in four is homeless.
Homelessness in La.-Part 3 (2007-12-19)
Our series on homelessness in La. continues with a visit to a shelter in Baton Rouge that offers help to runaway, throwaway and homeless youth.
Homelessness in La.-Part 2 (2007-12-18)
FEMA has announced plans to close the last of it's trailer parks housing hurricane Katrina victims on June 1st 2008. WRKF's Karen Henderson talks with residents of the largest of the parks in Louisiana and talks with a FEMA official about their plans.
Homelessness in La.- Part 1 (2007-12-17)
Part 1 - WRKF's Karen Henderson talks wtih DSS Deputy Secretary Lisa Woodruff-White about the growing problem of homelessness in Louisiana.
Board: Pinnacle can pay for election (2007-12-14)
The state Ethics Board says Pinnacle Entertainment can pay the $200,000-plus cost of the February 9th election in which parish voters will decide whether to allow it to build a casino development.
Judge refuses to rule out death penalty in Bell trial (2007-12-14)
A state judge has rejected Anthony Bell's request to eliminate the death penalty as a possible sentence if Bell is convicted of first-degree murder in the 2006 slayings of his wife and four in-laws inside a Baton Rouge church.
Double homicide at LSU (2007-12-14)
LSU police are investigating a double homicide that took place on campus overnight.
New Orleans sells off more tax-delinquent properties (2007-12-13)
New Orleans held its second online tax sale, offering for sale properties whose owners haven't paid the taxes due on them. Representatives of the firm contracted to manage the process calls it a big success.
Standoff over demolition of New Orleans public housing ends (2007-12-13)
In normal times, redevelopment of public housing to make way for mixed-income neighborhoods might have gone largely unopposed. But passions are high in hurricane-ravaged New Orleans, where residents are desperate for cheap housing.
Lafayette teachers' supplement unlikely in January (2007-12-13)
Lafayette Parish public school teachers will probably not be getting a pay supplement next month like they did in January to start the current year.
Geminid meteor peak showing in western sky tonight, Friday (2007-12-13)
If the skies clear up, look to the west tonight or Friday night and enjoy the show.
Demolition of New Orleans public housing hits a snag (2007-12-11)
Controversial plans to reinvent accommodations for the poor by bulldozing old barracks-style public housing in New Orleans has hit a snag.
Strain picks top agriculture staff (2007-12-11)
State Agriculture Commissioner-elect Mike Strain announced the selection of three key advisers.
Cleco crews to assist in Oklahoma's ice storm (2007-12-11)
Cleco is sending a 46-person storm team and 40 trucks to Oklahoma City to assist with restoration efforts after freezing precipitation left approximately 170,000 Oklahoma Gas & Electric customers without power.
Revenue forecasting panel bumps up state income projections by $657 million (2007-12-11)
Louisiana's revenue forecasting panel revised its estimates for state income, giving the incoming governor and lawmakers $657 million more to spend for the current budget year.
Fencing expected to go up today around Duncan Plaza (2007-12-11)
Fencing is expected to go up today around Duncan Plaza -- which has become home to hundreds of the city's homeless in recent months.
LSU plans business building (2007-12-10)
LSU hopes to begin construction this summer on a new 63 million dollar Business Education Complex consisting of a centerpiece four-floor rotunda, two rows of classroom buildings and a large auditorium.
Plans to raze public housing sites spark protest at Nagin's home (2007-12-10)
Public housing residents and advocates went to New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin's house to protest the planned demolition of four public housing developments. But they never got to see him.
Leary foundation calls attention to New Orleans firehouses (2007-12-10)
It's one of the best gifts Tim McConnell can imagine giving: two more damaged New Orleans firehouses, rebuilt and ready for firefighters to move into by Christmas.
Study says hundreds would move downtown (2007-12-07)
A new housing market study projects that over 16-hundred households would be willing to reside in Lake Charles' downtown and lakefront areas every year.
LSU extends Les Miles' contract to 2012 (2007-12-07)
LSU head football coach Les Miles has signed a contract extension that will keep him at the university through 2012.
Baton Rouge family feuds over names of their restaurants (2007-12-07)
Members of a Baton Rouge family are feuding over the names of restaurants.
Amite council won't even talk about Sunday beer/wine sales (2007-12-06)
The Amite Town Council declined to take up a measure that could let voters decide whether to allow the sale of beer and wine on Sundays.
Court: Firefighters failed to live up to deal (2007-12-06)
A state appeals court says the city of Lafayette was within its rights to revoke a pay raise given to firefighters as part of a deal to reduce overtime after the firefighters failed to hold up their end of the bargain.
Schedler hired by secretary of state (2007-12-06)
State Senator Tom Schedler, a Mandeville Republican, is expected to resign his seat in the next few days to become Secretary of State Jay Dardenne's chief deputy.
Hundley, 3 former officers' trial set (2007-12-06)
Former Lafayette Police Chief Randy Hundley and three former officers are set to go to trial Monday for their part in an alleged wiretapping scandal that eventually cost them their jobs
Hillary Clinton says she supports Brad Pitt (2007-12-04)
Hillary Clinton says she supports actor Brad Pitt's efforts to rebuild the Lower 9th Ward in New Orleans through his ``Make It Right'' program.
Outage hits AT&T DSL customers in Southeast United States (2007-12-04)
AT&T says its DSL customers in the Southeastern U.S. can get back to surfing the Web.
FEMA to close post-Katrina trailer parks (2007-11-30)
The Federal Emergency Management Agency says by today it plans to close as many as 13 Louisiana trailer parks where victims of the 2005 hurricanes are currently living.
Hurricane season ends today (2007-11-30)
No major storm hit the Louisiana coast for the second consecutive year, but that doesn't mean the hurricane season that ends today was a quiet one.
Signal tickets ready to roll (2007-11-30)
Cameras mounted at key Lafayette intersections will begin snapping pictures of vehicles that run red lights starting Wednesday, if the City-Parish Council gives its approval at Tuesday's meeting.
Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights starts Saturday (2007-11-30)
The 81st annual Christmas Festival of Lights will be held tomorrow on the downtown riverbank in Natchitoches.
City seals deal to assemble property for veterans hospital (2007-11-29)
New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin has signed a detailed agreement with the federal government in which the city agreed to acquire 34 acres downtown where a new veterans hospital can be built. In exchange, the city expects to get the right to redevelop the former veterans hospital.
Panel delays LEAP changes (2007-11-29)
Officials say a plan that would make it easier for public school eighth-graders to clear a key state test will be delayed amid questions on whether it is a good idea.
Appeal court revives fine for dealer in FEMA trailer sales (2007-11-29)
A south Louisiana motorcycle and motor home dealer is again facing $46.000 in fines for selling new travel trailers to a government agency without a proper license in the weeks following Hurricane Katrina.
U.S. is virtually unscathed by hurricanes in 2007 (2007-11-28)
The cautions were out for another rough stretch of hurricanes this year, but the 2007 Atlantic hurricane season is winding down with a whimper.
High court removes justice of the peace (2007-11-28)
The Louisiana Supreme Court has removed a Saint Helena Parish justice of the peace from office for her conduct in two matters filed in her court.
More than 2 years post-Rita, Cameron hospital opens (2007-11-28)
More than two years after Hurricane Rita devastated southwestern Louisiana, Cameron Parish's only hospital is open again.
Time is running out for FEMA trailers in St. Tammany Parish (2007-11-28)
Saint Tammany Parish government is cracking down on illegal FEMA trailers. Officials are warning residents that their utilities will be disconnected if they do not begin obtaining the proper permits within 10 days.
New Orleans man arrested in 1992 rape (2007-11-27)
New Orleans police arrested a 35-year-old man who investigators believe raped four women 15 years ago.
Interstate closure hurt I-10 businesses (2007-11-27)
Businesses along Interstate 10 between Lafayette and Baton Rouge lost numerous potential customers when a gas well blowout forced detours along a 55-mile stretch.
FEMA millions to repair streets (2007-11-27)
FEMA will spend at least 2.9 million dollars for nearly 1,000 street-related repair projects in Slidell, with most of the work occurring in the city's hurricane-battered southern section.
Saturday deadline to schedule Road Home appointments (2007-11-27)
With a Saturday deadline looming for Road Home applicants to make appointments, the program still has not heard from more than 16,000 people who filed initial applications but never followed up.
Gonzales City Council delays vote on saggy pants law (2007-11-27)
The Gonzales City Council has postponed voting on a proposed ``saggy pants'' ordinance prohibiting people from showing their underwear in public, after the mayor asked the city attorney to retool the language in the proposal to make it more clear.
Stretch of Interstate 10 reopening (2007-11-26)
State police are planning to reopen a stretch of Interstate 10 between Lafayette and Baton Rouge that has been closed since Nov. 15 because of a natural gas well blowout.
Hosanna abuse trial to begin (2007-11-26)
The trial of the first sexual abuse suspect in the 2005 Hosanna Church case is scheduled to begin tomorrow in Amite.
N.O. budget review process hits final stretch (2007-11-26)
The New Orleans City Council today moves into the final review of the 912.5 million dollar operating budget that Mayor Ray Nagin has proposed for 2008.
Freshman lawmakers meet for orientation (2007-11-26)
With term limits sending a host of freshman lawmakers to the Legislature, Senate and House officials have set aside time next month to give their newbies a crash course in the legislative process.
State hires new data firm (2007-11-21)
Just more than one month after a massive loss of student records was revealed, the state's student financial aid office is hiring a new data security company and considering litigation against the previous one.
Blanco secretaries want to stay (2007-11-21)
All but a handful of Democrat Governor Kathleen Blanco's Cabinet secretaries want to serve in Republican Bobby Jindal's administration.
Gas well blowout to inhibit highway traffic into December (2007-11-21)
A 55 mile-stretch of the vital Interstate 10 corridor from Houston to New Orleans will remain closed until at least December 4th.
Baton Rouge area home sales drop 13 percent in October (2007-11-20)
October home sales in the Baton Rouge market fell by more than 13 percent from a year ago, signaling more settling after the post-Hurricane Katrina boom.
Gautreaux, Broome set sights on post (2007-11-20)
State Senator Butch Gautreaux (GOH'-troh) is making a bid to become Senate president pro tem.
Norwood: No more Mardi Gras (2007-11-20)
After 21 Mardi Gras parades, many residents in the East Feliciana Parish village of Norwood say they've had enough of the crowds of people they attract.
BR officials predict another big surplus (2007-11-20)
City-parish officials in Baton Rouge say that they expect to receive 22 million to 25 million dollars in surplus funds next year, primarily due to a continuation of the post-Hurricane Katrina sales tax boom.
FEMA to fund N.O. demolitions (2007-11-20)
The Federal Emergency Management Agency says it will pay to tear down the remaining 1,800 hurricane-damaged homes in Orleans Parish.
Corps: Water supply falls short in Livingsto (2007-11-19)
A study by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers finds Livingston Parish needs to increase its current water supply by more than 60 percent to meet the parish's expected needs by 2030.
2 dead, 11 hurt in major apartment fire in Baton Rouge (2007-11-19)
Two people died and 11 were hurt in a huge apartment fire that took Baton Rouge firefighters more than five hours to bring under control.
Biomed center to start expansion while waiting for full funding (2007-11-19)
Pennington Biomedical Research Center officials say they anticipate an early spring groundbreaking for a new clinical research building.
Farmer's potato business sweet success (2007-11-19)
When Americans sit down for their Thanksgiving feast this week, northeastern Louisiana sweet potatoes could be featured on their tables.
EPA reports Louisiana actions (2007-11-16)
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency says federal enforcement of environmental laws in fiscal year 2007 resulted in 42 million dollars in investment in pollution control and clean up in Louisiana.
Wind insurance rates going up for coastal residents (2007-11-16)
Regulators have approved an 8.2 percent increase in premiums for coastal residential policyholders insured by the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association.
Judge won't hold up public housing razing (2007-11-16)
A federal judge says he won't stop the Housing Authority of New Orleans from demolishing the city's four largest public developments. Housing officials say they will begin razing buildings as soon as next month.
Landry gets ULL faculty support (2007-11-16)
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette Faculty Senate has endorsed Vice President for Academic Affairs Steve Landry for the job of university president.
Two arrested in case involving student (2007-11-16)
A teacher and a former teacher at the Louisiana School for the Deaf have been arrested and accused of maintaining an improper relationship with a female student.
Lawyer gets house arrest in domestic battery sentence (2007-11-15)
A Baton Rouge lawyer convicted in April of the domestic battery of his wife in 2006 has been sentenced to two months of house arrest and two days in prison.
Blanco nominates state poet laureate (2007-11-15)
Darrell Bourque (boork), a resident of rural Saint Landry Parish, has been named the new state poet laureate.
Cows on the loose in west Shreveport (2007-11-15)
Shreveport police and Caddo sheriff's deputies spent most of this morning searching for cows that broke loose after an 18-wheeler carrying the cattle flipped on Interstate 220.
Feds agree La. to get some aid in medical care (2007-11-15)
A federal spokeswoman says Louisiana will be reimbursed for a new state program that provides free prenatal care for women who are not U.S. citizens.
Citizens' insurance policies to cost less (2007-11-14)
Starting today, 55,000 policyholders of Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance will see decreases of as much as 10 percent on their bills when their policies renew.
Judge grants motion to delay retrial in Miller murder case (2007-11-14)
Defense attorneys have pushed back Shon Miller's retrial on four counts of first-degree murder from December 3rd to August 4th.
La. wants federal funds for some prenatal care cases (2007-11-14)
Disputing federal rules, Louisiana has expanded its children's health insurance program to cover prenatal care for pregnant women who are not U.S. citizens.
Boasso says he's back to business (2007-11-14)
State Senator Walter Boasso wants to focus on business rather than politics after losing to Governor-elect Bobby Jindal in the October primary.
'Turn on the Holidays' is set for Saturday (2007-11-14)
The city of Natchitoches will ``Turn on the Holidays'' with free family entertainment Saturday in downtown Natchitoches that will serve as the official start of the Festival of Lights season.
Ochsner to buy out hospital (2007-11-13)
Ochsner Health System will become the sole owner of Ochsner Medical Center-Baton Rouge two years after buying a 50 percent stake in the O'Neal Lane hospital.
Gonzales council asked to OK saggy pants ban (2007-11-13)
The Gonzales City Council has introduced a ``saggy pants'' ordinance aimed at keeping people from showing their underwear in public.
Lawmaker calls black activist 'Buckwheat,' apologizes days before runoff (2007-11-13)
A white state lawmaker involved in a runoff election is apologizing for calling a black woman who had helped her campaign ``Buckwheat.''
Donelon: Insurance incentives to continue (2007-11-13)
Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says he wants to continue a 100 million dollar incentive program that pays private companies to sell insurance in Louisiana.
Louisiana casinos win $196.7 million in October (2007-11-13)
Louisiana's state-licensed casinos won $196.7 million in October, a slight increase from October 2006 when there were two fewer gambling outlets running.
Church fire under investigation (2007-11-12)
Fire investigators have yet to determine what caused a fire that destroyed a Baptist church north of Scotlandville.
Regents formula will cost La. more (2007-11-12)
The Louisiana Board of Regents says a plan to reformulate the way the state funds Louisiana colleges, by creating methods to reward performance, will cost the state about $35 million dolalrs more annually.
Baton Rouge Budget has police raise (2007-11-12)
A 7.5 percent pay raise proposed for Baton Rouge police would raise their average pay to the Southern average. A Top city-parish official insists the administration's main concern at this point is losing officers to Louisiana State Police.
Landrieu: Defense bill has $3 billion to plug Road Home hole (2007-11-09)
Congress has passed a 460 billion dollar defense bill that includes 3 billion in federal aid for Louisiana's cash-strapped Road Home program for homeowners with damage from the 2005 hurricanes.
Baton Rouge Area astonomers view comet Holmes (2007-11-09)
Professional and amateur astronomers alike are being treated to a once in a lifetime opportunity to view the Holmes comet with the naked eye. WRKF's Karen Henderson reports.
FEMA to workers: Stay out of trailers (2007-11-09)
The Federal Emergency Management Agency is telling its workers to stay out of thousands of its stored travel trailers, amid concerns about exposure to hazardous fumes.
LSU to buy Baton Rouge hospital (2007-11-09)
LSU has agreed to buy Vista Surgical Hospital in south Baton Rouge for 20 million dollars.
Corrections secretary to give up post (2007-11-08)
Corrections Secretary Richard Stalder will not seek reappointment to the job he has held for nearly two decades. That's according to his press secretary Pam LaBorde.
Water bill set for Senate vote today (2007-11-08)
A bill that authorizes 7 billion dollars for Louisiana coastal restoration and hurricane protection projects is likely to become law today.
Trial delayed in Katrina dog killings (2007-11-08)
A Saint Bernard Parish sheriff's deputy and a former deputy are set to stand trial separately early next year on felony aggravated cruelty to animals charges.
Speed van changes up for vote (2007-11-07)
The Lafayette City-Parish Council will vote in two weeks on whether to make changes to the speed van program.
Crawfish lovers may feel the pinch (2007-11-07)
Crawfish farmers say they're feeling the effects of the high cost of fuel prices, which may mean fewer crawfish next season at a higher price.
Ex-Abbeville city attorney indicted (2007-11-07)
The former Abbeville city attorney has been indicted on federal charges for allegedly misleading bank officials to pay out $600,000 in bad checks for real estate transactions.
Landrieu says $3 billion committed to help plug Road Home shortfall (2007-11-07)
U.S. Sen. Mary Landrieu says congressional negotiators have struck a deal to pump another $3 billion in federal aid into Louisiana's cash-strapped Road Home program for homeowners with hurricane damage.
Early voting starts tomorrow (2007-11-02)
Early voting for the November 17th election begins tomorrow and runs through November 10th.
LSU seeks approval to boost RNs' pay (2007-11-02)
LSU is asking for authority to increase premium pay for registered nurses at six hospitals across the state as it tries to keep nurses and recruit new ones.
Police shut down sports betting Web site (2007-11-02)
State Police, who worked eight months undercover investigating an Internet sports betting Web site called The Tiny Tuna, have arrested three Jefferson Parish men believed to be the masterminds behind the illegal online enterprise.
LEAP plan gives options (2007-11-02)
Eighth-graders who fail LEAP would get new options for moving to the ninth grade anyway under a plan endorsed by a key panel of parish superintendents.
Gulf Coast marks milestone in Katrina recovery with bridge's opening (2007-11-01)
Thousands of Gulf Coast residents are expected to celebrate a milestone in their recovery from Hurricane Katrina with the opening today (Thursday) of a bridge that replaces one demolished by the storm.
Web site being upgraded for November election (2007-11-01)
The Secretary of State's Office is expanding its Web site capacity so those tracking election results online will have an easier time come November runoff voting.
Laura Bush to visit the Gulf Coast (2007-11-01)
First Lady Laura Bush is visiting two New Orleans schools this week to keep focus on the needs of children whose families are still recovering from Hurricane Katrina.
Corps has begun raising levees along lakefront (2007-11-01)
Contractors for the Army Corps of Engineers have begun raising sections of New Orleans lakefront levees to heights authorized before Hurricane Katrina.
La. program praised for 4-year-olds focus (2007-10-31)
Louisiana's public school classes for 4-year-olds has won some praise in a new report, but the state's program remains well behind top efforts in the South.
Judge steps out of Jena Six news case (2007-10-31)
A judge has disqualified himself from hearing a request from news organizations to open juvenile court proceedings for a black teenager charged with beating a white classmate in Jena.
Do Not Call telemarketing list may not expire (2007-10-31)
Congress is moving quickly to make the national Do Not Call list permanent.
Omelette festival targeted by PETA (2007-10-31)
Officials with People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals have asked organizers of Abbeville's Giant Omelette Celebration to use tofu instead of eggs in the massive omelette.
State OKs first 75 'Katrina cottages' (2007-10-31)
The state housing board has cleared the way for construction of 75 Louisiana cottages at Jackson Barracks.
State's largest Baptist group elects first woman leader (2007-10-30)
The nation's largest Baptist convention has elected its first female president.
Big rig wreck blocks I-49 (2007-10-30)
State police say a portion of Interstate 49 is closed following a wreck involving an 18-wheel tractor-trailer rig that overturned.
Wal-Mart worker's tip leads to meth lab bust (2007-10-30)
A Wal-Mart employee's tip led to the recent arrest of two men accused of running a methamphetamine lab in a Federal Emergency Management Agency-issued trailer.
Baton Rouge church leaves national group (2007-10-29)
One of south Louisiana's largest Presbyterian churches is splitting with the nation's largest Presbyterian denomination.
Lawyer with Big Easy roots returned to help fight crime (2007-10-29)
A federal prosecutor in Oklahoma has spent the past six months in New Orleans as a volunteer helping prosecute criminals as the city continues to recover from Hurricane Katrina.
Money in Louisiana goes to Clinton (2007-10-29)
Senator Hillary Clinton continues to raise more money than other Democratic and Republican presidential candidates both nationally and in Louisiana.
University of Louisiana System emphasizes retention (2007-10-29)
Graduation rates are the focus of the University of Louisiana System with 99 million dollars in its new funding doled out to campuses to help students graduate.
SUNO gets approval to expand to LaPlace (2007-10-26)
The devastated Southern University at New Orleans campus has received permission to expand classes to LaPlace, and SUNO's request to extend the deadline for tougher admissions standards was denied.
Decontamination set soon for Eunice derailment (2007-10-26)
Work could begin early next year to treat contaminated soil that remains at the site of a May 2000 train derailment west of Eunice.
Board of Regents OK colleges' $2.88 billion budgets (2007-10-26)
The Louisiana Board of Regents has officially approved 2.88 billion dollars -- a nearly 7 percent increase from last year -- for all the state's public college operating budgets.
SCHIP veto puts La. in bind (2007-10-25)
Health officials say Louisiana could have to drop thousands of children from a program that provides them with health insurance because of federal government inaction.
Baton Rouge council OKs Sunday liquor sales (2007-10-25)
Beginning Sunday, East Baton Rouge residents will be able to purchase liquor and wine at grocery stores and other retail stores on Sundays.
4 shot to death overnight in New Orleans; 3 in one shooting (2007-10-25)
Four men were killed three hours apart in New Orleans -- three in one incident shortly before midnight, and another three hours later and 15 miles away, near a park on the French Quarter's northern edge.
Lafayette School Board member to pay ethics fine (2007-10-24)
Lafayette School Board member and state representative candidate Rickey Hardy said he never thought his daughter's summer job would violate state ethics code.
Probe of Taser incident continues (2007-10-24)
The investigation into why an Alexandria police officer used a Taser stun gun and physically threw a woman to the ground in April is still under way. The mayor's office says that investigation is expected to wrap up sometime this week.
Former employees file suit against ConocoPhillips (2007-10-24)
Former employees of ConocoPhillips' Calcasieu Parish facility are suing the company, claiming they were blacklisted and then fired.
Jindal visits north La., touts ethics plans (2007-10-24)
Governor-elect Bobby Jindal is in the final day of his ``Thank You Tour'' two days after winning Saturday's election.
LRA requests funds for fishing industry (2007-10-23)
The Louisiana Recovery Authority is seeking approval to make more money available to improve wharves, docks and other key parts of Louisiana's fishing industry.
Port Allen approves sagging pants ordinance (2007-10-23)
The Port Allen City Council has joined the growing list of governmental bodies adopting laws to control saggy trousers.
State Fair opens Thursday (2007-10-23)
More than 350,000 are expected to turn out for the 14 day of State Fair of Louisiana.
Must anti-speeding workers in Laf. be licensed investigators? (2007-10-22)
Complaints about a new anti-speeding program in Lafayette, which uses automatic cameras in vans to snap pictures of speeding cars, have brought up the question of whether the people in the vans have to be licensed private investigators.
Gov. Blanco giving the gift of time over holidays (2007-10-22)
State employees will get three four-day weekends for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's thanks to outgoing Governor Kathleen Blanco.
Jindal takes call from president (2007-10-22)
Governor-elect Bobby Jindal says President Bush has agreed to meet with him on hurricane recovery needs.
Heavy rain, severe weather expected today (2007-10-22)
It's a wet drive to work for many people across the state this morning.
Trial of serial killer suspect to be postponed for appeals (2007-10-19)
Prosecutors say the Lafayette trial of serial-killing suspect Sean Vincent Gillis will be postponed pending an appeals court decision in another case on whether his confession was properly obtained.
Two of 'Jena Six' defendants present BET award (2007-10-19)
Two of the Jena Six defendants helped present the Video of the Year award at Black Entertainment Television's Hip Hop Awards show broadcast last night.
Tests: Louisiana's pre-K program boosts 3rd grade test scores (2007-10-19)
Louisiana's public prekindergartens have lasting results. An expert says the first children who had a full year in the program did significantly better than other third-graders on standardized tests.
Candidates for La. gov in final debate before Saturday primary (2007-10-19)
Bobby Jindal's three rivals in the governor's race took a polite approach in their final televised debate before tomorrow's election, appealing for voter support instead of taking shots at the front-runner.
State officials consider easing LEAP (2007-10-18)
State educators are considering a plan that would make it easier for eighth-graders to pass a key test required for promotion.
Two plead no contest in investment scheme (2007-10-18)
Two men with a California company accused of bilking Acadiana investors out of more than 1 million dollars by claiming to have invented a revolutionary method for oilfield cleanup have pleaded no contest to failing to keep proper financial records.
Fields asks end to fight on election challenge (2007-10-18)
State Senator Cleo Fields says he will ask supporters to drop further challenges to court rulings that he has reached his term limits and cannot run for re-election.
Police pension fund ready to get out of golf biz (2007-10-15)
A Louisiana police pension fund is ready to get out of its investments in golf courses that never turned a profit.
3 fight for runoff spot as La. governor's race enters final phase (2007-10-15)
Two Democrats and an independent are trying to force a runoff in the governor's race, while Bobby Jindal tries to rally supporters and clinch the race in Saturday's primary.
50 percent turnout forecast for Saturday (2007-10-15)
Secretary of State Jay Dardenne says based on the patterns of early voting, about half of the state's 2.8 million registered voters should turn out in the statewide election Saturday.
Amendments deal with supplemental pay, retirement, jewelry tax (2007-10-11)
Louisiana voters will be asked to decide on four constitutional amendments in the October 20th election.
Feds subpoena Citizens' ex-chief (2007-10-11)
A Metairie attorney says Terry Lisotta, the former chief executive of the embattled Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, has received a subpoena for documents from the U.S. attorney's office.
Black mayors meet in Shreveport (2007-10-11)
Mayors from cities throughout Louisiana are expected to gather in Shreveport, host of the state chapter of the National Conference of Black Mayors' state conference.
Road Home audit complete (2007-10-10)
An independent accounting firm's two-month review of the state's post-hurricane Road Home homeowner grant program is complete. Officials with the firm caution that the report they will release in a few weeks will not be an exercise in criticism.
Lafayette resident says speed vans are unlawful (2007-10-10)
A Lafayette woman has filed a report with the police department contending that at least one technician who works inside the new speed enforcement vans does not have proper licensing.
Report: La. foster parents underpaid (2007-10-10)
A recent national report shows Louisiana's foster parents are not being adequately compensated and that lack of financial support is causing a recruitment crisis.
La. governor's candidates offer array of insurance ideas (2007-10-09)
The four major candidates for Louisiana governor have a range of different ideas for eliminating a persistent obstacle to south Louisiana's hurricane recovery: high homeowners insurance rates.
Ex-Baton Rouge lawyer permanently barred from practice (2007-10-09)
A former Louisiana lawyer accused of abandoning his law practice and clients and moving to Texas is forever barred from practicing law.
Louisiana receives $1.4 million to increase HIV testing (2007-10-09)
Louisiana is among 23 states to split 35 million dollars from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for increased HIV testing opportunities.
(Broadcasters: Moving on news and sports circuits.) (2007-10-09)
LSU has launched an investigation into the record number of quality, counterfeit tickets caught at Saturday's football game.
Harry Lee's campaign account going to his church (2007-10-09)
Sheriff Harry Lee left his campaign money to the church he attended since childhood.
Jena approves panel to study race relations (2007-10-04)
The Jena Town Council has authorized the mayor to form a five- to seven-person committee comprising different races and genders to gauge race relations in the small LaSalle Parish town rocked over the controversy of the ``Jena Six.''
4 gubernatorial hopefuls to hold second debate in Shreveport (2007-10-04)
The top four candidates for governor will face off tonight for the second time in Shreveport.
Group pushing presidential debate in 2008 at New Orleans site (2007-10-04)
With the Commission on Presidential Debates expected to decide later this month where three planned debates will be held in the fall of 2008, the leaders of the Louisiana Recovery Authority are urging the commission to put New Orleans in that number.
Lafayette utility plans water fee changes (2007-10-03)
Beginning in January, a new system of calculating water charges will be in effect for Lafayette Utilities System customers.
Judge delays hearing on Gillis murder count (2007-10-03)
Convicted killer Sean Vincent Gillis will have to wait until November 2nd to find out whether allegations that he kidnapped his victim, stole body parts and took other belongings should subject him to prosecution on a charge of first-degree murder.
La. ranks third in number of domestic violence homicides (2007-10-03)
Louisiana ranks third in the nation in the rate of women murdered by men.
Hospital sues state DHH (2007-10-03)
Woman's Hospital in Baton Rouge has filed suit against the Louisiana health department in federal court. The lawsuit alleges the agency violated federal and state laws by refusing to adequately fund the Medicaid program.
Colorful south Louisiana sheriff, Harry Lee, dead at 75 (2007-10-01)
Harry Lee, the seven-term Jefferson Parish sheriff whose blunt talk sometimes led to sour relations with black leaders, died today after a months-long battle with leukemia.
Bush's veto threat affects LaCHIP expansion (2007-10-01)
A fight in Washington means Louisiana won't be able to make health insurance available to more children in working families.
Road Home sets new deadlines (2007-10-01)
Hurricane-affected homeowners who want to participate in the state's home rebuilding and buyout program have until Dec. 1 to schedule their initial appointments.
Judge: suit filed by mayor-elect's family has no legal grounds (2007-09-28)
A state judge says the family of the first black person elected mayor of Westlake hasn't cited any valid legal grounds in their lawsuit accusing the chief sheriff's deputy of negligence in his investigation.
Hospital buys Livingston Parish I-12 site (2007-09-27)
Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center has bought 192 acres on Walker South Road near Interstate 12 for a multimillion-dollar expansion in Livingston Parish.
Louisiana's governor says DA won't challenge ruling on 'Jena Six' teen (2007-09-27)
Governor Kathleen Blanco says the prosecutor in the ``Jena Six'' case has decided not to challenge an appellate ruling that sends the case to juvenile court.
Mexico braces under tropical storm watch; T. Storm Karen weakens (2007-09-27)
Parts of Mexico's Gulf Coast are under a storm watch as a tropical depression drifts closer. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Karen has weakened slightly in the open Atlantic Ocean.
Road Home expected to run out of money at year's end (2007-09-26)
Officials say a state program to help homeowners with hurricane damage will run out of money by year's end unless Congress steps in to fill the gap.
Corps to take land for floodwall (2007-09-26)
Governor Kathleen Blanco has signed an executive order to commandeer three strips of land needed to build a floodwall east of the Harvey Canal.
Supreme Court to hear Fields' appeal Wednesday (2007-09-26)
The Louisiana Supreme Court will hear arguments today about whether state Senator Cleo Fields of Baton Rouge has reached his term limits.
Lawmakers seek Jena 6 teen's release (2007-09-26)
Congressman John Conyers has joined the chorus of people seeking the release of a black teenager held in the ``Jena 6'' case in Louisiana.
PAR offers guide to constitutional amendments on ballot (2007-09-24)
The Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana has released its analysis of constitutional amendments voters will decide on the October 20th ballot.
Clinton says in new radio ad she'll advocate for 'invisible' Americans (2007-09-24)
Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton says she'll be a caretaker for the Americans whose plights go unseen by Washington politicians.
Candidates for governor prepare of first debate (2007-09-24)
The first televised debate among the top four candidates in the governor's race will air Thursday at 7 p.m. on Louisiana Public Broadcasting stations throughout the state.
Blanco to mark 2nd Hurricane Rita anniversary (2007-09-24)
Governor Kathleen Blanco plans to mark the second anniversary of Hurricane Rita today by touring new facilities where workers are trained for jobs in Louisiana's energy and construction industries.
Memorial employees to appeal decision unsealing some of AG's files (2007-09-21)
An attorney says Memorial Medical Center employees will appeal a court ruling that would reveal much of the attorney general's investigation into deaths of patients at the hospital after Hurricane Katrina.
Hearing today in Jena Six defendant's case (2007-09-21)
A state judge is to hear arguments today about whether the judge who heard over Jena Six defendant Mychal Bell's trial should be made to step aside from a bond hearing ordered Thursday by a state appeal court.
Judge: mental health experts may interview Sean Vincent Gillis (2007-09-21)
A judge says a psychiatrist and psychologist may interview convicted killer Sean Vincent Gillis next weekend in East Baton Rouge Parish Prison.
Should park be named after mayor who died from overdose? (2007-09-21)
The commission that runs parks in Baton Rouge is split over whether to rename Baton Rouge Beach after former Mayor Pat Screen.
Mike VI benched for game (2007-09-20)
After first announcing Mike VI would make his football debut Saturday, LSU decided to sit the new mascot on the bench for a couple more weeks.
Jena gears up for march in support of 6 black teens (2007-09-20)
Thousands of chanting demonstrators filled the streets of Jena today in support of six black teenagers initially charged with attempted murder in the beating of a white classmate.
Insurer's rate plea rejected (2007-09-20)
The Louisiana Insurance Rating Commission has unanimously rejected a proposed statewide average homeowners insurance rate increase of 20.6 percent for Amica Mutual Insurance Company.
Judge: Public may see records in hospital case (2007-09-20)
A state judge has ruled that the public should see records the attorney general's office generated in its investigation of deaths at Memorial Medical Center after Hurricane Katrina.
Lafayette water customer will see water bill increase (2007-09-19)
Some Lafayette Utilities System customers will see higher water bills next year.
Report blasts feds for slow recovery (2007-09-19)
A new report charges that the pace of recovery in Louisiana and Mississippi continues to drag because federal disaster aid programs now in place were not designed to handle the catastrophic damage left behind by hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Attorney: Fields should be barred (2007-09-19)
An attorney for a group of people challenging the candidacy of state Senator Cleo Fields told an appellate court the Louisiana Constitution is clear that the incumbent senator should be barred from seeking another term.
Man's conviction stops gubernatorial run (2007-09-18)
The candidacy for one man seeking to become governor of Louisiana ended when a state judge in Baton Rouge ruled the man's recent felony conviction barred him from seeking public office.
Police: pair burned in hotel room meth lab (2007-09-18)
After a candle left burning in a motel room set fire to gas from a mobile methamphetamine lab, Saint Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office says the operators drove themselves to a hospital in Slidell and were taken to a Baton Rouge burn unit.
Judge rules against Senate District 39 candidate (2007-09-18)
A convicted felon has been declared ineligible to run for the Senate District 39 seat, but he said he will appeal.
Termite program in Quarter growing (2007-09-18)
Federal officials will name 14 blocks of French Quarter buildings that will become eligible for Formosan termite treatments paid for by a grant program.
Contracts OK'd for trio running Citizens (2007-09-18)
The board of directors of the Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, the state-run homeowners insurer of last resort, has given its final blessing to the contracts of the three top executives now running the beleaguered agency.
Few days left to register to vote (2007-09-17)
There are only a few days left to register to vote in the October 20th election.
Lasalle Parish will have help policing Jena 6 protests (2007-09-17)
Law enforcement officers from across the state will be in Jena Thursday to help the town of about 3,500 people deal with the thousands expected to rally in support of six black teenagers arrested in the beating of a white classmate.
Blanco plans economic development trip to Spain (2007-09-17)
Governor Kathleen Blanco is heading to Spain today for a four-day economic development trip.
Contracts OK'd for trio running Citizens (2007-09-17)
The board of directors of the Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, the state-run homeowners insurer of last resort, has given its final blessing to the contracts of the three top executives now running the beleaguered agency.
Panel votes to begin Entergy inquiry (2007-09-14)
A New Orleans City Council committee has voted to open an official investigation into what it said has been Entergy New Orleans' failure to obtain low-cost power for local customers.
Jena-area schools to be closed during sentencing of Bell (2007-09-14)
Officials say schools on the south side of LaSalle Parish will be closed Thursday when Mychal Bell is sentenced.
Humberto weakens to tropical depression, Ingrid forms (2007-09-14)
The first hurricane to make landfall in the U.S. in two years has weakened to a tropical depression.
Hurricane Humberto closes schools, colleges in SW La. (2007-09-13)
Schools and colleges in at least two parishes are closed today as Hurricane Humberto (oom-BEHR'-toh) crashed ashore in southeast Texas and moved east, dumping 5 to 10 inches of rain in southwest Louisiana.
Gov. Blanco approves 11 projects for GO Zone bonds (2007-09-13)
Governor Kathleen Blanco has given the go-ahead for 11 private projects that had been waiting months for a letter letting them proceed with financing based on Gulf Opportunity Zone bonds.
Baton Rouge council votes to sue casino (2007-09-13)
The East Baton Rouge Metro Council has voted 7-0 to file a lawsuit and use any legal means necessary to get information about the economic impact of Pinnacle Entertainment's proposed riverboat casino project in south Baton Rouge.
Grambling student accused of stealing counterfeit money (2007-09-13)
Monroe police have arrested a Grambling State University nontraditional student and former Monroe City Marshal's Office intern for using counterfeit money.
Prosecutor finds no crime in New Orleans nursing home deaths (2007-09-11)
New Orleans District Attorney Eddie Jordan has declined to press criminal charges against a nursing home where 19 elderly residents died in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
Alexandria mayor to let saggy pants ordinance become new law (2007-09-11)
Alexandria Mayor Jacques Roy has decided to take no action on the saggy pants ordinance unanimously approved by city council members two weeks ago, but warned it raises constitutional issues.
Blanco sued over GO Zone bond program (2007-09-11)
Business developers seeking to build four movie theaters in south Louisiana with dollars from a hurricane recovery business loan program have sued Governor Kathleen Blanco.
Panel seeks opinions on replacement for Authement at ULL (2007-09-10)
The process of finding a new president for the University of Louisiana at Lafayette continues this week when a search committee meets. The panel will hear from Lafayette community members on the type of person who should fill the job held by Ray Authement for 33 years.
Louisiana fishermen say dead zone is hurting them (2007-09-10)
Crabbers say they're pulling up pots full of dead crabs. Fishermen are landing fish with no fight in them. And shrimpers aren't even bothering to go out because the shrimp aren't there.
Tangipahoa schools seek to boost minority teacher recruiting (2007-09-10)
Tangipahoa Parish school officials have announced plans to recruit more teachers and draw more minority applicants for teaching positions. The effort comes amid claims from critics of the Tangipahoa system, who say the ratio of black teachers to other staff members has been declining.
La. hunters not required to tag deer, turkey (2007-09-10)
The Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission has suspended rules requiring deer tagging for the 2007-2008 hunting season because of problems with the tags being issued to some hunting license holders.
Testimony wraps up in nursing home trial (2007-09-07)
The judge presiding over the trial of nursing home owners accused in the deaths of 35 patients after Hurricane Katrina sent jurors home last night, telling them to bring an overnight bag when they returned and to prepare for a long, tough day today.
La. Democratic Party director on leave after DWI arrest (2007-09-07)
The executive director of the state Democratic Party has taken a leave of absence after his arrest on a count of third-offense drunken driving.
Oyster season opens; experts expect good harvests (2007-09-07)
As oyster season opened in many public waters, seafood experts forecast a good year for eastern areas that have had limited success since Hurricane Katrina.
St. Landry schools superintendent quits after less than 2 months (2007-09-07)
The St. Landry Parish schools superintendent says he's quitting the job, less than two months after taking it.
Nagin bails on governor bid (2007-09-07)
New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin's flirt with the governor's race ended the way it started: with a swirl of rumors and Nagin offering little information. It only became certain he wouldn't run for Louisiana governor when the election sign-up period ended.
If Nagin's running for La. governor, today's the day (2007-09-06)
New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin, who has said he's thinking about running for governor, started the final day to register by saying he hadn't made up his mind.
Saggy pants ban passes in Abbeville (2007-09-06)
Abbeville is the latest community jumping on the wagon to ban saggy pants.
Manning, Brees ready for opening-game shootout (2007-09-06)
For Peyton Manning and Drew Brees, the NFL's opening matchup tonight will be more reunion than rivalry.
Shaquille O'Neal improves school playground (2007-09-06)
Miami Heat star Shaquille O'Neal scooped up several piles of gravel to be replaced with wood chips at a Baton Rouge schoolyard playground, and he told students he can remember falling off the monkey bars head first when he was a kid.
SU's Slaughter crafts new policy on harassment (2007-09-05)
Southern University President Ralph Slaughter is working on a policy revision for better reporting of discrimination and harassment claims against members of the Southern Board of Supervisors.
Part of Lafourche levee tumbles into bayou (2007-09-05)
A last resort in levee protection for Larose and Lockport, reinforced two years ago, is already showing signs of deterioration and could possibly collapse from a hurricane-induced tidal surge.
St. Charles council supports 10 percent raises (2007-09-05)
St. Charles Parish's civil service employees would get 10 percent across-the-board raises if Parish President Albert Laque takes a recommendation from the Parish Council.
Jena judge: can't try juvenile as adult for conspiracy (2007-09-05)
A judge has thrown out one of the two charges against the first black student tried for beating up a white student at Jena High School, saying juveniles cannot be charged with conspiracy in adult court.
Foti's challengers focus on Memorial hospital case (2007-09-03)
The legal fight over whether Attorney General Charles Foti may release more evidence from his investigation of deaths at one hospital after Hurricane Katrina has attracted a swarm of attorneys, including one of Foti's two challengers.
Sheriff Lee in Houston for chemotherapy (2007-09-03)
To battle the return of his leukemia, Jefferson Parish Sheriff Harry Lee has begun chemotherapy in Houston, but he says he will qualify, if necessary, by proxy next week to run for an eighth term in office.
Boustany cites progress in Iraq (2007-09-03)
U.S. Rep. Charles Boustany Junior says he was pleased with what he saw on a recent trip to Iraq.
Gillis' lawyers say killer wrongly indicted in his second murder case (2007-09-03)
Attorneys for convicted killer Sean Vincent Gillis are arguing that Gillis was improperly indicted on a count of first-degree murder.
Gillis' lawyers say killer wrongly indicted in his second murder case (2007-08-31)
Attorneys for convicted killer Sean Vincent Gillis are arguing that Gillis was improperly indicted on a count of first-degree murder.
Sheriff Lee in Houston for chemotherapy (2007-08-31)
To battle the return of his leukemia, Jefferson Parish Sheriff Harry Lee has begun chemotherapy in Houston, but he says he will qualify, if necessary, by proxy next week to run for an eighth term in office.
Judge rules Bell competent to stand trial (2007-08-31)
A judge has ruled that a Baton Rouge man accused of killing four people in a church and his wife in a parking lot is mentally competent to stand trial.
Lafayette firefighters, police offer to settle over back pay (2007-08-31)
Lafayette firefighters and police officers have offered to settle a lawsuit over disputed back pay for $10.9 million -- more than twice the most-recent offer from Lafayette city-parish government.
Fontenot says he won't run again (2007-08-30)
State Senator Clo Fontenot, considered a leading candidate for Senate president next term, says he won't seek re-election this fall.
Slaughter agrees to drop suit against Southern University (2007-08-30)
Southern University President Ralph Slaughter has agreed to a two-year contract that could double his present salary in order to avoid a drawn-out court battle against the Southern Board of Supervisors.
Arraignment set for former state film recruiter (2007-08-30)
Former state film industry recruiter Mark Smith is scheduled to be arraigned September 7th.
Report says education problems linger after storm (2007-08-29)
U.S. House Majority Whip James Clyburn says a report detailing serious Gulf Coast public education problems that exist two years after Hurricane Katrina can be a tool for Congress as it attempts to speed recovery in the region.
LRA offers to help resolve Go Zone problems (2007-08-29)
The Louisiana Recovery Authority is offering to help sort out the politically sticky problem of allocating special tax-free, low-interest Go Zone borrowing.
Bush marks storm anniversary in New Orleans (2007-08-29)
It's been two years since Hurricane Katrina made landfall and flooded 80 percent of New Orleans, killing more than 1,600 people in Louisiana and Mississippi.
Auditors question firm's charges (2007-08-28)
The Legislative Auditor's Office has found questionable travel costs and duplicate charges in a review of a state-hired disaster consulting firm's invoices.
Governor has arrived at courthouse (2007-08-28)
Governor Kathleen Blanco is scheduled to testify today in the trial of a pair of Saint Bernard Parish nursing home owners facing negligent homicide charges stemming from the drowning of 35 residents during Hurricane Katrina.
Former state film recruiter to represent self in bribery case (2007-08-28)
Former state film industry recruiter Mark Smith will be his own attorney on charges that he took bribes to inflate state tax credits for a motion picture producer.
Tiger mascot, Mike, arrives at LSU (2007-08-27)
Mike the Tiger has arrived at LSU. The new mascot made himself at home after a plane flight from Indiana.
New Orleans musicians march demand better opportunities, wages (2007-08-27)
Some musicians from New Orleans say ``it ain't easy to be in the Big Easy.''
Crime stats show killings up for first half of 2007 (2007-08-27)
Killings in Baton Rouge are up sharply from the first half of 2006, even as the number of most of major crimes declined.
Obama says country cannot fail New Orleans again (2007-08-27)
Democrat Barack Obama (ber-AHK' oh-BAH'-muh) says the country can't fail New Orleans again. And that as president he says he would keep the city in mind every day.
Council approves money to honor Katrina remains (2007-08-24)
The New Orleans City Council voted 6-0 to provide 1 million dollars in city money for a memorial honoring unclaimed victims of Hurricane Katrina.
St. Landry school board member to stand trial for contempt (2007-08-24)
U.S. District Judge Tucker Melancon ruled there is probable cause for Saint Landry Parish School Board member Josie Frank to stand trial for criminal contempt.
LRA hires company to review Road Home (2007-08-24)
The Louisiana Recovery Authority, prompted by homeowners serving on the agency's housing task force, has hired consultants to review the Road Home homeowner program and advise how to make it more efficient.
Hurricane Andrew remembered 15 years after landfall (2007-08-24)
A Category Five Hurricane Andrew screamed across South Florida 15 years ago today, flattening most of Homestead with 165 mile-an-hour winds.
Ethics Board looks at possible nepotism in Tangi schools (2007-08-23)
The state Board of Ethics has scheduled hearings about allegations that an assistant principal in Tangipahoa Parish and the school district's human resources director got their jobs because their fathers were on the school board.
Lafayette officials want go-cups to go (2007-08-23)
Lafayette's police chief and City-Council president says go-cup should go.
John Georges studies changing parties (2007-08-23)
Republican businessman John Georges of New Orleans says he's considering switching to independent or even Democrat in his campaign for the Governor's Mansion.
Voter purges debated by Senate committee (2007-08-23)
The recent removal of about 19,000 names from Louisiana voter rolls triggered questions and concerns in a Senate committee.
Rep. Gary Beard sued over movie tax credits (2007-08-22)
A Lafayette company is seeking the return of $125,680 it paid to state Representative Gary Beard of Baton Rouge for movie tax credits. The lawsuit claims that Beard never owned the credits and has refused to return the money.
Experts work out ideas on coastal restoration, rather than compromises (2007-08-22)
A group of scientists, engineers and coastal Louisiana organizations is developing an alternative plan for coastal restoration and protection -- without public comment for now.
Contractor given 4 years for abandoning Katrina repair job (2007-08-22)
A Mississippi judge has sentenced a man to four years in prison and ordered him to repay $43,650 for abandoning a Hurricane Katrina repair job for a Pass Christian family.
DOTD: Clock ticking for Hale Boggs bridge (2007-08-21)
State transportation officials told the Saint Charles Parish Council last night that the Hale Boggs Bridge has potentially serious problems, but the bridge is safe.
Red-light cameras ready to go soon (2007-08-21)
The first cameras to catch red-light runners should be in operation by late summer in Lafayette.
Sec. of State Dardenne home from hospital (2007-08-21)
Secretary of State Jay Dardenne is home after a 13-day stay at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center.
Shon Miller arraigned for retrial (2007-08-21)
Shon Miller Senior, convicted once of shooting and killing his 2-year-old son, wife, mother-in-law and a deacon inside a Gonzales church in 1999, has pleaded innocent to the crimes in state District Court.
Bats force school to rearrange classes (2007-08-20)
Tangipahoa Parish school officials had a little surprise waiting for them at Tucker Elementary School when classes began parishwide last week.
Gillis trial in Williams' death begins tomorrow (2007-08-20)
Sean Vincent Gillis, accused of killing eight Louisiana women, goes on trial tomorrow for the second-degree murder of one of them -- Joyce Williams of Baton Rouge.
Group cites concerns, urges action at New Orleans jail (2007-08-20)
Almost two years since Hurricane Katrina, a new report says the Orleans Parish Prison remains ``dangerously ill prepared'' to handle another emergency and that overcrowding and medical services continue to be problems.
Baton Rouge gathers around a book about hurricane Katrina (2007-08-20)
As the two year anniversary of hurricane Katrina approaches, the city of Baton Rouge reads Jed Horne's book, "Hurricane Katrina, The Near Death of a Great American City". It's a community read and discussion orchestrated by the One Book One Community Project. WRKF's Karen Henderson reports...
LSU panel backs $29 Student Union fee boost (2007-08-17)
An LSU Board of Supervisors committee has approved a $29 per semester LSU Student Union fee increase that students opposed.
Registrar drops more than 21,000 from voters rolls (2007-08-17)
State election officials say more than 21,000 people have been dropped from Louisiana's voter rolls.
WTC: Louisiana exports are booming (2007-08-17)
Louisiana exports are poised to see another record year. That's according to the World Trade Center of New Orleans.
Newspaper: Sources say ex-film chief to plead guilty (2007-08-17)
Published reports today say Louisiana's former film commissioner reportedly will plead guilty to charges that he took about $50,000 in bribes to inflate tax credits for movies made in the state.
Officials want Go Zone answers (2007-08-16)
State officials have asked the Blanco administration to resolve an 11 billion dollar supply and demand problem involving special tax-free, low-interest Go Zone borrowing.
Officials: Citizens Insurance should get new computer system (2007-08-16)
Officials say the state-run insurer of last resort's glitch-plagued computer system, which cost 13 million dollars and has prevented the company from producing financial statements since 2005, might not be repairable long term and must be replaced.
Sec. of State Dardenne in private room (2007-08-16)
Secretary of State Jay Dardenne is continuing his recovery from back and pelvic surgery at a Baton Rouge hospital.
La. regulators approve 21 percent property insurance rate hike (2007-08-16)
Louisiana regulators have approved a property insurance rate change. The statewide average rate increase of over 21 percent that will affect roughly 8,500 policyholders.
Louisiana College to open law school (2007-08-16)
Louisiana College in Pineville plans to announce today its desire to open a ``biblical worldview'' law school with classes starting in 2009.
5 jurors picked so far Katrina nursing home trial (2007-08-15)
Attorneys today will try to select the final jurors to hear the case of a couple charged with negligent homicide in the deaths of 35 patients at their nursing home following Hurricane Katrina.
GO Zone bond money flowing, but not in N.O. (2007-08-15)
Officials say projects in New Orleans are getting only a tiny fraction of the low-interest bond money aimed at jump-starting Louisiana's post-Katrina economy.
Gambling at cockfights becomes illegal today (2007-08-15)
Effective today, it's illegal to gamble at cockfights in Louisiana.
New budget to challenge SU's board (2007-08-15)
The Southern University Board of Supervisors is trying to figure out what to do after its annual board budget was cut in half this year by the Legislature.
ACLU sues to stop church donations (2007-08-14)
The American Civil Liberties Union has filed suit in New Orleans federal court to stop Louisiana from making taxpayer-financed donations to two churches.
Insurance companies to ask commission for rate increases (2007-08-14)
Horace Mann Insurance Company group and Amica Mutual Insurance Company are expected to request homeowners rate increases of 21.6 percent and 20.6 percent at tomorrow's meeting of the Louisiana Insurance Rating Commission.
State Police tack on 50 new troopers (2007-08-14)
Fifty new state troopers started work this week, but the new head of the State Police says the agency could use another 200 officers.
Newsweek taps Tulane, Centenary (2007-08-14)
Tulane University and Centenary College are among ``The 25 Hottest Schools in America'' for 2008 in the latest issue of Newsweek.
Lawmakers' summit set for N.O. next year (2007-08-13)
New Orleans will host next year's National Conference of State Legislatures' Issues Summit from July 20th-25th.
Jury selection set to start in St. Rita's (2007-08-13)
Two years after Hurricane Katrina killed more than 1,400 people, the only individuals charged with any of those deaths face jury selection today in Saint Franscisville.
Democrats arrive to tour storm areas (2007-08-13)
Congressman Gene Taylor will host a delegation of 15 members of Congress on a tour of South Mississippi today.
A day late, but Beard won't be dollar short (2007-08-13)
State Representative Gary Beard of Baton Rouge will not be fined for what appears to be a late filing of his latest campaign finance report in the race for lieutenant governor.
Dardenne to have surgery Monday (2007-08-10)
Secretary of State Jay Dardenne is on schedule to have back and pelvic surgery Monday.
Landrieu plans rewrite of FEMA regulations (2007-08-10)
A 34-year-old Monroe man has been arrested, accused of selling drugs and printing counterfeit money at his apartment.
Sabine Refuge to open Sept. 1 (2007-08-10)
The Sabine National Wildlife Refuge located south of Hackberry will reopen four of its six recreation areas along the Creole Nature Trail on September 1st.
Judge: no basis for suit to make state sue insurance companies (2007-08-10)
A judge threw out a request to make state officials sue insurance companies for hurricane repairs on public property, saying the suit neither named any companies to sue nor listed any specific damaged property.
Test ruled discriminatory; Georgia-Pacific to pay job applicants (2007-08-09)
the U.S. Department of Labor says utility workers at a paper mill don't have to be literate, so a test used to screen Georgia-Pacific applicants discriminated against blacks.
Forecasters lower seasonal estimate to up to 9 hurricanes (2007-08-09)
Government forecasters have slightly lowered their outlook for Atlantic hurricane season. They say 13 to 16 tropical storms and seven to nine hurricanes are expected to form.
Shintech commits to plant expansion (2007-08-09)
Shintech Louisiana, the company building a 1 billion dollar chemical plant in Iberville Parish, says it will spend another 900 million dollars in a new phase starting in late 2008 or early 2009.
Official: Buy more police cars (2007-08-09)
A Lafayette City-Parish councilman is proposing to increase by half the number of new police cars that will be purchased in the upcoming fiscal year.
Lafayette fire, police back pay in limbo (2007-08-08)
Lafayette police officers and firefighters won't get the back pay they are owed any time soon.
Louisiana has 2 burn units, in B.R., Shreveport (2007-08-08)
Although the shrinking number of burn units nationwide is worrisome, Louisiana doctors say a 12-bed burn unit in Baton Rouge and a 16-bed unit in Shreveport are enough to serve the state.
Shaw Group agrees to retrofit plants (2007-08-08)
The Shaw Group says it has agreed to a 1.1 billion dollar contract to retrofit three Maryland power plants with new emissions controls.
Group: Tax holiday a boost to retailers (2007-08-07)
A state merchants' group says the ``tax holiday'' during the weekend provided a boon for business owners.
AG and DA: No further prosecution of doctor or nurses coming (2007-08-07)
The Louisiana attorney general and the Orleans Parish district attorney told a judge that the doctor and two nurses once accused of murdering patients in a flooded hospital following Hurricane Katrina face no further criminal charges.
Judge denies Gillis motion (2007-08-07)
Sean Vincent Gillis of Baton Rouge is still scheduled to stand trial in West Baton Rouge Parish on August 21st in the November 1999 death of Joyce Williams of Baton Rouge.
Insurance chief says flood coverage vital (2007-08-07)
Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says everyone in south Louisiana should have flood insurance, especially with the most active part of the hurricane season coming.
4 SE Louisiana bridges score below Minnesota span (2007-08-07)
A review of the most recent Louisiana inspection reports finds 4 of the New Orleans area's 11 major bridges have structural condition ratings lower than the Minnesota bridge that collapsed into the Mississippi River last week.
Treasurer Kennedy may run against AG Foti (2007-08-06)
State Treasurer John Kennedy said he will decide this week whether to run for re-election or go after the state attorney general post now held by Charles Foti.
Rev. Al Sharpton visits tense La. town (2007-08-06)
The Reverend Al Sharpton is criticizing officials in the racially-tense town of Jena where 6 black teens are accused of beating a white schoolmate.
States are stepping into U.S. immigration-law void (2007-08-06)
A new report finds state lawmakers are increasingly stepping into the void created by the failure of Congress to approve sweeping changes to immigration policy.
Collection of comics on display at LSU (2007-08-03)
A strange new collection has opened at the Hill Memorial Library on LSU's campus. "Super Stories: A Brief History of Comics" is open to the public through October. WRKF's Kristine Breithaupt took a visit and filed this report.
No veto session (2007-08-03)
The Legislature will NOT meet for a veto override session next week after a majority of the Senate voted against returning to Baton Rouge.
Former congressmen to be next head of La. oil lobby (2007-08-03)
Former U.S. Representative Chris John will be the next head of Louisiana's oil lobby.
Court papers: Gillis told deputy he'd have killed her, kept hands (2007-08-03)
A man accused of killing seven women told a female sheriff's deputy, ``You sure do have pretty hands. If I would have seen you out, I would have hunted you, killed you and kept your hands.''
Shaw Group to restate 2006 annual report (2007-08-02)
Engineering and construction services provider Shaw Group of Baton Rouge says it will restate its annual report for the fiscal year that ended August 31st, 2006, based on comments from the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Judge: Odom in wrong over seizure of seafood (2007-08-02)
A state judge has ruled that Agriculture Commissioner Bob Odom appears to have overstepped his authority when he seized imported seafood for testing.
WRKF wins PRNDI award (2007-08-02)
At its annual conference in New Orleans, PRNDI announced the winners of this year's PRNDI Awards. WRKF won a first-place award for News Director Karen Henderson's interview with state medical examiner Dr. Louis Cataldie.
New Orleans hospitals hemorrhaging money (2007-08-02)
Hospital officials in New Orleans are asking the federal government for financial assistance.
Hurricane victims get additional year to sell vacant land (2007-08-01)
The IRS is giving owners of homes that were destroyed by Hurricane Katrina an extra year to sell their empty lot in a tax-friendly manner.
Murphy Oil to expand buyout (2007-08-01)
Murphy Oil has given notice that it intends to expand the property buyout program its Meraux refinery agreed to as part of the $330 million settlement of a huge Hurricane Katrina-related oil spill.
Black Caucus opposes session to undo taxes (2007-08-01)
The Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus opposes a return to the State Capitol to undo Governor Kathleen Blanco's vetoes.
Staples hiring 400 in Baton Rouge area (2007-07-31)
Office supplier Staples plans to hire 400 people in the Baton Rouge area within four years to handle domestic customer service needs.
N.O. makes FEMA deadline for list of storm-damaged streets (2007-07-31)
New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin's administration has told the Federal Emergency Management Agency that Hurricane Katrina damaged nearly 14-thousand city blocks worth of streets, mostly in residential neighborhoods.
Sheriff, Gretna lose round in federal court (2007-07-31)
A federal judge has rejected requests by Gretna and Jefferson Parish police agencies to dismiss a lawsuit seeking class action status stemming from their decision to close the Crescent City Connection to pedestrians trying to flee New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina.
Bobby Jindal unveils ethics package (2007-07-31)
U-S Representative Bobby Jindal has unveiled the ethics reform package that he plans to pursue if elected governor.
The Baton Rouge Little Theater's production of "CATS" full of surprises (2007-07-30)
WRKF's Brian Pope takes a backstage look at the Baton Little Theater's production of "CATS" and discovers a few surprising secrets to the performance which is getting rave reviews.
LPB set debates in the governor's race (2007-07-30)
The Council for a Better Louisiana, a nonpartisan governmental watchdog group, and Louisiana Public Broadcasting will sponsor two gubernatorial debates this campaign season, one covering general topics and one more focused on health care issues.
Iberia Parish Council to pick president (2007-07-30)
The Iberia Parish Council will meet tonight to appoint a new parish president.
FEMA: La. sees drop in new flood policies (2007-07-30)
FEMA says a large number of people who bought flood insurance after the devastating 2005 hurricane season have not renewed their policies.
New contract with Witt consulting firm to include lower rates, subcontractor approval (2007-07-27)
State officials says a new contract with the consulting firm of former FEMA director James Lee Witt will contain some lower hourly rates and a requirement that its subcontractors be approved by Louisiana officials.
Tests conducted to find best way to protect Louisiana coast (2007-07-27)
Scientists are performing hundreds of computer model tests to determine which combination of levee features will provide the most protection for Louisiana's fragile coast.
Scott: 2008 looms large for Louisiana (2007-07-27)
Early on after the strikes of hurricanes Katrina and Rita, consulting economist Loren Scott thought Louisiana might take the better part of a decade to recover the jobs lost by the storm-induced migrations of 2005.
Road Home deadline Tuesday (2007-07-27)
The July 31st deadline for homeowners to apply for financial assistance under the state's Road Home hurricane repair and buyout program is just days away, and officials say hundreds of new applications still are coming in daily.
State, Witt company in talks on new pact (2007-07-26)
The Blanco administration is negotiating to pay up to 90 (m) million dollars over the next three years to continue receiving advice from a disaster consulting firm.
Insurance Rating Commission member resigns (2007-07-26)
One member of the Louisiana Insurance Rating Commission has resigned in the wake of the Legislature abolishing the panel. But others says they will stay until the board is officially dissolved January first.
Recovery tracker: New Orleans population may be 300,000 (2007-07-26)
A group tracking recovery trends says New Orleans' population, which was fell by half after Hurricane Katrina, may be back to two-thirds of its pre-storm level, with about 300-thousand residents.
St. Bernard, St. Charles parishes cracking down on FEMA trailers (2007-07-26)
The FEMA trailers which have housed people since Hurricane Katrina are on their way out of two suburban New Orleans parishes.
Report: SBA canceled loans to help clear backlog (2007-07-25)
A U-S Small Business Administration watchdog says the agency canceled nearly 12-thousand loans to residents affected by the 2005 Gulf Coast hurricanes over two weeks last September.
Judge stops suit against Road Home (2007-07-25)
A Baton Rouge federal judge tossed out a lawsuit against the troubled Road Home -- but not before noting the program is rife with problems.
Pointe Coupee Police jury votes to ban sagging garments (2007-07-25)
It is now a crime to walk the streets of Pointe Coupee (poynt koo-PEE') Parish, or to enter a store or any other public place, in a state of nudity or partial nudity.
Former police officer acquitted of beating (2007-07-25)
A New Orleans judge has acquitted a former police officer accused in the videotaped beating of a man in the French Quarter after Hurricane Katrina.
Corrections chief on medical leave (2007-07-24)
Corrections Secretary Richard Stalder says he expects to be away from his office for four months to deal with health issues.
Lawyer to ask new trial in suit brought by Grambling alums (2007-07-24)
The lawyer for the Grambling State University Alumni Association and other plaintiffs says he will ask for a new trial in their suit against the school and the University of Louisiana System.
Stun gun suit settled for $32,500 (2007-07-24)
The Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office has agreed to pay 27-thousand-500 dollars and the City-Parish Government five-thousand dollars to the family of a man who died after police shocked him with a Taser stun gun.
State gives 4-year-olds solid start in program (2007-07-23)
More parents of four-year-olds across the state will have a chance this fall to give their children a jump-start toward success in school.
Work under way on new state emergency shelter (2007-07-23)
The state's first permanent emergency shelter is under construction in Alexandria.
Gov. Blanco signs bill giving tax breaks to volunteers (2007-07-23)
Volunteer firefighters and individuals who volunteer at public recreation departments around the state will be eligible to take a deduction of 500 dollars from their state income taxes starting this year.
State: Claims for insurance credit lagging (2007-07-23)
State officials say more than a (m) million Louisiana homeowners apparently have overlooked a large tax refund due to them as state reimbursement on their insurance premiums following Hurricane Katrina.
Louisiana near top in governor finance disclosure (2007-07-19)
A new survey says Louisiana is among the best in informing the public about the governor's finances.
SU president's suit given fast timeline (2007-07-19)
A trial late this year pitting the Southern University System president against Southern's board and the governor is on track.
Ark. PSC schedules hearing on proposed power plant (2007-07-19)
The Arkansas Public Service Commission has scheduled a hearing for next month on a proposed one-point-three (b) billion-dollar coal-fired electric generation plant to be built in Hempstead County.
Placid Refinery begins $200 million expansion project (2007-07-19)
Placid Refinery will spend 200 (m) million dollars in the next two years boosting its output and lowering emissions. The Port Allen facility supplies more than a third of Baton Rouge's gasoline.
The Baton Rouge Little Theater's production of "CATS" full of surprises (2007-07-19)
WRKF's reporter Brian Pope takes a backstage look at the Baton Little Theater's production of "CATS" and discovers a few surprising secrets to the performance which is getting rave reviews.
Cajundome told it owes $1 million in uncollected sales taxes (2007-07-19)
The tax collector has come calling on Lafayette's the Cajundome, demanding the arena begin collecting sales taxes and pay three years in past due taxes, a bill estimated at more than one (m) million dollars.
Housing grant to fund rehab projects (2007-07-19)
The Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas says Rapides Station Community Ministries will receive a housing grant of 350-thousand dollars for rehabilitation of 35 existing homes in Rapides Parish for low- and very low-income families.
Contaminated cans of chili sauce cause rare cases of botulism (2007-07-19)
Federal health officials are warning consumers to throw out certain cans of hot dog chili sauce after four people were hospitalized with botulism.
State police crime lab shrinks rape kit backlog (2007-07-18)
Louisiana's backlog of sexual assault kits that have not been processed for D-N-A evidence has dwindled from three-thousand-100 in 2003 to 200.
Sen. Vitter returns to Washington (2007-07-18)
Senator David Vitter is back on Capitol Hill, where he's apologizing to G-O-P colleagues for a sex scandal that sent him into seclusion for a week.
Hospital's price too high for LSU (2007-07-18)
L-S-U's plans to purchase Vista Surgical Hospital in south Baton Rouge have hit a roadblock.
Louisiana oil-gas income hits record (2007-07-18)
The state's income from oil and gas royalties hit a record 522-and-a-half (m) million dollars million for 2006-2007, while its total income from bonus, leaseholder and interest payments was 600-point-one (m) million dollars.
Cajundome chief to appeal FEMA demand (2007-07-17)
The director of Lafayette's Cajundome says repaying one (m) million dollars to the Federal Emergency Management Agency would financially cripple the arena.
Arraignment moved in Miller case (2007-07-17)
Shon Miller's arraignment on four counts of first-degree murder has been pushed back to August 20th at the request of his defense attorney and to the frustration of prosecutors.
New models to speed up hurricane evacuation route (2007-07-17)
With the use of new computer technology, an L-S-U researcher is developing plans to speed evacuation of metropolitan areas well before hurricanes or other disasters hit.
Challenge to cockfight ban in La. anticipated (2007-07-16)
Proponents of banning cockfighting in Louisiana are keeping watch for a lawsuit challenging the state's new laws. But they predict it would be difficult for cockfighters to win.
Weather primary influence on ozone (2007-07-16)
Despite human efforts to battle pollution, the state Department of Environmental Quality says the biggest factor controlling ozone pollution in the greater Baton Rouge area still seems to be the weather.
New campaign targets speeders (2007-07-16)
Law enforcement officials will be out in increased numbers beginning today as part of the 2007 ``Summer Heat'' campaign.
Edwards begins tour to highlight poverty (2007-07-16)
Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards says linking the federal minimum wage to inflation and strengthening collective bargaining rights would be two steps toward the eventual elimination of poverty in America.
The CFA aids economic development (2007-07-13)
Communities across the nation are addressing quality of life issues in hopes of spurring economic development. In Louisiana, the Community Fund for the Arts targets the arts.
Tax breaks may burden state's next governor (2007-07-06)
The state's next governor will likely receive a pricey welcome package upon entering office -- (m) millions of dollars in tax breaks that will have to be absorbed by the future administration.
Term limit repeal may be on ballot (2007-07-06)
A referendum to repeal term limits for the parish president could be on the October 20th ballot.
Road home applications stand at 151,900 (2007-07-06)
Applications from Louisiana homeowners continue to pour into the state's cash-strapped Road Home hurricane repair and buyout program. The deadline for applying for the financial assistance is July 31st.
Top pick emerges for LSU president (2007-07-06)
The committee charged with finding candidates to be the next president of the Louisiana State University System is expected today to unveil a short list of recommendations.
Man's mental health questioned (2007-07-03)
A lawyer says the former security guard accused of killing a Southern University football fan prior to a game in the fall began having psychological problems when he was in basic military training years ago.
Recovery school district launches campaign to hire teachers (2007-07-03)
The New Orleans Recovery School District has unveiled a 400-thousand dollar national teacher recruitment campaign that includes a Web site, radio and newspaper advertisements in cities such as Houston and Minneapolis.
Grambling audit cites poor record keeping (2007-07-03)
An audit report of Grambling's financial statements reveals several significant financial reporting weaknesses and issues of noncompliance with governmental standards for record keeping.
Judge tells Odom courts will decide issue (2007-07-03)
A federal judge has legally tied the hands of Agriculture Commissioner Bob Odom for assuming the role of a court and scheduling his own hearing to decide whether his own actions are constitutional.
Judge: Hurricane Katrina dog to stay in Texas (2007-07-03)
A judge says a dog rescued after 2005's Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans will be allowed stay with its new owner in Texas.
Murphy Oil wants to add four storage tanks (2007-07-02)
Murphy Oil is seeking state permission to add four massive storage tanks at its Meraux refinery.
Crude little changed (2007-07-02)
Oil prices are little changed today. That is despite concerns about U-S gasoline supplies as well as the risk of terrorism.
Police pension fund pays off loan (2007-07-02)
A Louisiana police pension fund paid off a 30 (m) million dollar line of credit which Shreveport golf pro Hal Sutton is using to build an exclusive luxury resort in Texas.A Louisiana police pension fund paid off a 30 (m) million dollar line of credit which Shreveport golf pro Hal Sutton is using to build an exclusive luxury resort in Texas.
Lawmakers make it easier to get rebates (2007-07-02)
The Legislature has made it easier for policyholders to get rebates from the state for paying for assessments to help keep the state-run insurance company afloat.
Contractor ordered to repay his clients or serve 8 years (2007-07-02)
A state court judge has ordered William Michael Noe to repay what he stole or spend eight years in prison, after Noe pleaded guilty to contractor fraud.
BRCC, SLU get new programs; LSU cuts master's in marketing (2007-06-28)
New academic degree programs have been approved for Baton Rouge Community College and Southeastern Louisiana University, while a marketing master's degree was eliminated from L-S-U.
Black bear habitat designation ordered (2007-06-28)
A federal judge has ordered the U-S Fish and Wildlife Service to begin a process that could bring more scrutiny to projects affecting the habitat of the threatened Louisiana black bear.
Iberia Parish wants more Lake Peigneur tests (2007-06-28)
More testing may be conducted at Lake Peigneur to try to determine the cause of repeated bubbling episodes.
March called to protest testing (2007-06-27)
The Louisiana N-double-A-C-P is calling on parents and interested people to come to the State Capitol Saturday morning in protest of the state's new school testing requirements.
Man pleads guilty to killing QB's brother (2007-06-27)
The man arrested last year for killing the younger brother of Grambling State University quarterback Brandon Landers faces lengthy prison time following a deal with prosecutors.
Digging dirt up on LSU (2007-06-27)
A group of about 10 archaeologists is working on the grounds of the State Capitol to excavate remnants of the old L-S-U President's Residence, which stood at the site until the 1920s.
DEQ seeks dumpers of hazardous waste (2007-06-27)
Two state agencies will be looking for the culprits who dumped 20 cylinders of hazardous material in a rural Calcasieu Parish community.
Experts: Crawfish virus might not be as bad as feared (2007-06-27)
A crawfish virus first detected in May has been confirmed in ponds throughout south Louisiana, but researchers say it might not be as destructive as initially feared.
Deadline over Jesus image is extended (2007-06-26)
The American Civil Liberties Union has backed off from its threat to sue Slidell City Court officials if they didn't remove a portrait of Jesus by Wednesday.
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Former Evangeline Downs track set for razing (2007-06-26)
The owner of the former Evangeline Downs Racetrack says the site may remain standing in Carencro until the end of the week.
Crawfish meat producers' vote on one-cent fee (2007-06-26)
Louisiana crawfish tail meat producers will vote this week on a one-cent per pound research and marketing checkoff fee on peeled crawfish meat sold in the state.
Lafayette school chief plans to pursue St. Landry job (2007-06-26)
James Easton, whose final day as Lafayette Parish School Superintendent is July first, says he plans to apply for the superintendent's position in Saint Landry Parish.
2 I-49 funding bills clear Senate (2007-06-26)
The Senate has passed two bills that put up 75 (m) million dollars for Interstate 49 construction.
Black college enrollment in South rate passes milestone (2007-06-25)
For the first time, blacks are as well represented on college campuses in the South as they are in the region's population.
House pushes for more dollars into highway repairs (2007-06-25)
The House wasn't ready to give up on a bill that would plow more state dollars into highway repairs and construction.
Plaquemines looks to move parish seat (2007-06-25)
Legislation to allow the transfer of state property to create a Plaquemines Parish government complex in Belle Chasse could signal another attempt to move the parish seat out of Pointe a la Hache (poynt ah lah HASH').
Tenure changes coming to school support workers in Orleans Parish (2007-06-25)
A bill to change tenure regulations for support workers in Orleans Parish schools is close to becoming law after passing the House by a 60-16 vote.
Black college enrollment in South rate passes milestone (2007-06-25)
For the first time, blacks are as well represented on college campuses in the South as they are in the region's population.
Senate committee passes pay raise for judges, assit. D-As (2007-06-22)
The Senate Finance Committee has agreed without objection to bills that would continue to bump up pay for judges and assistant district attorneys around the state. The measures head next to the full Senate for debate and have already received approval from the House.
BESE ups graduation curriculum (2007-06-22)
Beginning with the freshman class of 2008-2009, Louisiana will up the requirements for high school students and implement a more rigorous curriculum.
Four more face Katrina fraud charges (2007-06-22)
Four more Louisiana residents, including three from Baton Rouge, have been charged in federal court with fraud related to hurricane disaster relief programs.
Lake Charles police plan curfew push (2007-06-22)
The Lake Charles Police Department is gearing up to enforce the city's curfew laws.
House breaks spending cap, Senate approves next year's budget (2007-06-20)
As senators approved next year's 29-point-seven (b) billion dollar budget proposal, a partisan logjam over spending ended in the House, with more than a dozen Republican lawmakers agreeing today to break a spending cap and tap into a pool of state surplus cash.
Louisiana's diversity on display at forum (2007-06-20)
Lieutenant Governor Mitch Landrieu says Louisiana will host the World Cultural Economic Forum.
Southern University panel clears former chairman (2007-06-20)
Former Southern University Chairman Johnny Anderson has been cleared by an internal sexual harassment investigation at an emergency board meeting before the case heads to court.
DNA leads to arrest in 21-year-old case (2007-06-20)
D-N-A evidence police obtained after a sexual assault more than two decades ago has matched a rapist scheduled to be paroled this week from Louisiana State Penitentiary.
Audit: Southern system's finances better (2007-06-19)
The Southern University System's overall financial status is on the way up, but a state audit found there are still multiple negative accounting findings.
Films' credits called too high (2007-06-19)
Records show that a federal investigation of the state's movie-industry incentive program is examining movies made with New Orleans' LIFT Productions that were granted tax credits based on investment figures that far exceeded the actual production costs of the films.
La. high court cuts off CASA funding (2007-06-19)
An agency that organizes volunteers to work with abused children in the court system has lost its funding from the state Supreme Court for not meeting program goals, forcing a layoff of most staff members and major restructuring.
Freshman residency up for LSU Board vote (2007-06-19)
L-S-U Chancellor Sean O'Keefe wants to require incoming freshmen to live on campus beginning in 2009, with some exemptions.
Interview with Representative Michael Jackson (2007-06-18)
WRKF News Director Karen Henderson discusses the final weeks of the Louisiana legislative session with District 61 Representative Micahel Jackson.
Construction bill booms in Senate (2007-06-18)
The state's five-year construction plan has cleared the Senate Revenue and Fiscal Affairs Committee, which added 295 amendments that sent the bill's bottom line beyond seven (b) billion dollars.
Legislature heads toward close of session (2007-06-18)
It's getting down to the wire for the Louisiana Legislature.
Health department sends outs pandemic flu preparedness handbooks (2007-06-18)
The state health department today sent out one-point-six (m) million pandemic flu preparedness handbooks, to tell citizens how to guard against the virus.
Consultant will help search for new ULL president (2007-06-18)
The president of the University of Louisiana System, Sally Clausen, says a consultant will be hired to help find a new president for the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
Lawmakers continue to push ethics legislation (2007-06-18)
Efforts to improve disclosure of lobbyists' dealings with the Legislature are dead for the 2007 legislative session, but other ethics bills are still in the pipeline.
School Board votes to buy out superintendent's contract (2007-06-15)
The ending of Lafayette Parish School Superintendent James Easton's tenure with the Lafayette school system has officially begun.
Bad odor bill falls short in Senate panel (2007-06-15)
Legislation to regulate bad odors coming from businesses met its demise yesterday in a Senate committee.
New Mexico ban on cockfighting takes effect (2007-06-15)
As of today, Louisiana is the only state in the U-S where cockfighting is still legal.
N.O. woman suing mobile home vendor (2007-06-15)
A New Orleans woman now living in Renaissance Village who was hospitalized twice with respiratory problems is suing the vendors of mobile homes given to victims of Hurricane Katrina. She alleges the units contained harmful levels of formaldehyde.
Cajun town bans saggy pants; mayor says cover up 'private parts' (2007-06-13)
The Delcambre (DEL'-kuhm) Town Council says overly saggy britches are obscene. So does Mayor Carol Broussard, who said he will sign an anti-sag ordinance passed unanimously this week.
Tauzin: he was anonymous U.S. rep. in Jefferson indictment (2007-06-13)
Lobbyist Billy Tauzin says he was the anonymous member of Congress mentioned in the indictment of U-S Representative William Jefferson, and simply wrote a routine letter.
House panel OKs bill on TOPS (2007-06-13)
Arguing that home-schooled students are not ``roving bands of truants,'' a House committee has agreed that students being taught at home should more easily qualify for TOPS college tuition awards.
Ex-officer accused in videotaped beating: an apparent suicide (2007-06-12)
A now-former New Orleans police officer who was accused of beating a man after Hurricane Katrina -- has died in an apparent suicide.
MCC report critical of New Orleans police focus (2007-06-12)
A report to be released today by the New Orleans Metropolitan Crime Commission finds New Orleans police now arrest people at a faster pace than before Hurricane Katrina. The reports finds that N-O-P-D focuses too much on minor municipal and traffic offenses that detract from the pursuit of violent criminals.
Jefferson's legal bills could reach $2 million (2007-06-12)
Attorneys say U-S Representative William Jefferson is facing legal bills that could reach two (m) million dollars to fight complex public corruption charges that include bribery, racketeering and money laundering.
Leaders back plan to revamp curriculum (2007-06-11)
Despite some reservations, school superintendents endorsed a plan to remake public high schools in Louisiana that would include tougher classes.
New prestige license plates in works (2007-06-11)
The state may soon have two more prestige license tags. One will honor the state's Cajun culture, the other -- members of the U-S Army Airborne Division in the state.
Shreveport police officers to be tested for TB (2007-06-11)
Several officers and jailers with the Shreveport Police Department are being tested for tuberculosis.
Injuring officer could end in prison time (2007-06-11)
Anyone who injures a police officer badly enough that the officer requires medical attention should serve at least 30 days in jail. That's according to a bill on its way to Governor Kathleen Blanco.
Interview with Dirstrict 82 Representative Steve Scalise (2007-06-11)
In her Moday talks with lawmakers during the regular session of the Louisiana Legislature, today WRKF News Director Karen Henderson talks with Representative Steve Scalise.
Panel favors narrowing tax breaks for films (2007-06-08)
A House committee has advanced legislation to tighten the state's film infrastructure program amid criticism that hotels, condos and golf courses are qualifying for the tax breaks.
Jefferson pleads not guilty to bribery charges (2007-06-08)
Representative William Jefferson today pleaded NOT guilty to charges of racketeering, money-laundering and soliciting more than 500-thousand dollars in bribes in connection with years of trying to broker business deals in Africa.
Study: Louisiana economy grows 1.7 percent (2007-06-08)
A preliminary report from the U-S Bureau of Economic Analysis shows Louisiana's economy grew one-point-seven percent between 2005 and 2006. The growth was boosted by gains in the oil and gas industry.
Calcasieu jurors approve FEMA trailer extensions (2007-06-08)
Calcasieu Police jurors have approved a policy to let Hurricane Rita victims keep FEMA trailers and mobile homes on their property until March 2008, even though the structures violate parish zoning rules.
Lafayette Council approves red light cameras (2007-06-06)
The Lafayette City-Parish Council has voted 7-to-1 to enter into a four-year contract with Redflex Traffic Systems to install and operate a red-light camera ticketing program.
Gov. Blanco pledges mental health services (2007-06-06)
Governor Kathleen Blanco has promised to hurry along existing plans to expand the meager care available for mental patients in New Orleans, despite a plea from Mayor Ray Nagin that the city needs much more than that.
Proposed La. ban on late-term abortion procedure moves ahead (2007-06-06)
A Senate panel today approved legislation that would outlaw the late-term pregnancy procedure known as ``partial-birth'' abortion, without provisions to protect the mother's health.
Appeals court to hear arguments in Katrina levee breach lawsuits (2007-06-06)
A federal appeals court grapples today with a (b) billion-dollar legal question. Are insurance companies obligated to cover water damage from the failure of levees in New Orleans following Hurricane Katrina?
I-49 North funding falls $280M short (2007-06-05)
The Department of Transportation and Development is making great progress building Interstate 49 from the Arkansas line toward Shreveport. But the department's head says he's only got enough money to get halfway there.
Prosecutor: Court to uphold verdict (2007-06-05)
The lead prosecutor in the first-degree murder trial of Derrick Todd Lee says he thinks the Louisiana Supreme Court will conclude the convicted murderer received a fair trial in 2004 and was correctly sentenced to death.
Jackson Co. officials want closer look at cottages proposal (2007-06-05)
Officials have put off until at least June tenth a decision on whether to join a cottage housing program backed by the state of Mississippi.
Tests find diseased crawfish (2007-06-05)
State officials say a disease that can kill off crawfish has been confirmed in commercial ponds across southwest Louisiana and in the Atchafalaya Basin.
Bill extends deadline to sue insurers (2007-06-04)
Homeowners would have up to two years to file suit against their insurance companies for damages under a bill approved and awaiting final action on the Senate floor.
Rapides granted 2-year extension to certify levees (2007-06-04)
Officials have signed an agreement that gives Rapides Parish a two-year extension to certify its levees. But Gary Zimmerer, with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, says the federal government has not officially approved it.
Escaped inmates caught in Oakdale (2007-06-04)
Three inmates who escaped from the Allen Parish Jail by overpowering a guard and taking his keys have been apprehended at a cousin's house in Oakdale.
PSC fee increase may get second shot (2007-06-04)
The state's utility regulators did some lobbying over the weekend and now think they can reverse a vote against legislation that would allow the Public Service Commission to increase fees.
Gov. Blanco to enter pump dispute (2007-06-01)
Governor Kathleen Blanco has agreed to enter the ongoing debate between New Orleans and Jefferson Parish for control of pumping operations along the 17th Street Canal during hurricanes.
Stiffer penalties sought for guns taken to schools (2007-06-01)
Under a bill approved by a Senate committee, public school students caught with a firearm on school property would face expulsions of two school years, double the current penalty.
Road Home gap hits $5 billion (2007-06-01)
As Louisiana's 29-point-six (b) billion dollar budget plan moves to the Senate, pressure continues to mount for Governor Kathleen Blanco to direct at least some state money toward a Road Home deficit now pegged at as much as five (b) billion dollars by the state's auditor.
Judge to rule on request to dismiss negligent homicide charges (2007-06-01)
A judge is scheduled to rule today on a request to dismiss charges against the owners of a suburban New Orleans nursing home where 35 residents died during Hurricane Katrina.
Interview with District 46 Rep. Sydnie Durand (2007-05-28)
WRKF News Director Karen Henderson reviews what's happening during the regular session of the Louisiana Legislature with Representative Sydnie Mae Durand.
Bill would keep airport records secret (2007-05-25)
Key records would remain secret in the quest to build a cargo airport near Donaldsonville under a bill approved by the House Transportation Committee.
Board of Regents say conduct code crucial in La (2007-05-25)
The state's top higher education board says Louisiana's colleges must develop a ``Code of Conduct'' for student financial aid administrators in the wake of nationwide scandals involving cozy relationships with student loan companies.
China asks US to clarify regulations after catfish imports banned in 3 southern states (2007-05-25)
China has asked the United States to clarify regulations on the use of certain antibiotics after Alabama and Mississippi banned imports of Chinese catfish because traces of the drugs turned up in the fish.
Sheriff Lee gets out of hospital early (2007-05-25)
Jefferson Parish Sheriff Harry Lee plans to leave the hospital today, a week earlier than anticipated.
Expert: Man competent to face trial in slayings (2007-05-25)
The Baton Rouge man accused of killing his wife and four members of her family in a church last year has been found competent to stand trial on five counts of first-degree murder.
Senate committee approves training for performing arts (2007-05-25)
The Senate Education Committee has approved a bill that would require visual and performing arts training in Louisiana's public schools.
Part of debris removal program ending (2007-05-23)
The Federal Emergency Management Agency will stop its private property debris removal program in Orleans and Jefferson parishes May 31st.
House approves stiffer DWI penalties (2007-05-23)
The House has approved stiffer penalties for drunken and negligent drivers. The vote was 98-to-1.
Animal rights group urges LSU not to replace live tiger mascot (2007-05-23)
A group of animal advocates is urging L-S-U not to replace its recently departed mascot with another live tiger but school officials appear unlikely to accept that idea.
LaCHIP sets higher income limits (2007-05-23)
More Louisiana children will be eligible for the Louisiana Children.s Health Insurance Program or LaCHIP, because of the annual increase in the Federal Poverty Level effective this month.
Part of debris removal program ending (2007-05-22)
The Federal Emergency Management Agency will stop its private property debris removal program in Orleans and Jefferson parishes May 31st.
La. Supreme Court hears case against Jefferson Parish judge (2007-05-22)
State District Judge Martha Sassone of Jefferson Parish will defend herself before the state Supreme Court today. She's accused of failing to follow the law, abusing her authority and being impatient and discourteous.
Stats: Murder rate in New Orleans surges since Katrina (2007-05-22)
The latest crime statistics released by the New Orleans Police Department show an increase in homicides and violent crime over the same period last year that, according to one criminologist, clearly outpaces the city's population growth.
La. share of Gulf fish catch down since Katrina, Rita (2007-05-21)
Hurricanes Rita and Katrina in 2005 altered fishing patterns in the Gulf of Mexico, with Louisiana's share of the catch dropping by almost 20 percent and the harvests in Texas and Alabama spiking.
Write a brief headline for this separate (2007-05-21)
The Louisiana Legislature is scheduled this week to debate how much say policyholders will have in the way insurance companies operate in this state.
New Orleans debt burden nears $1 billion (2007-05-21)
The city of New Orleans debt to various creditors is nearly a (b) billion dollars.
Citizens Insurance hires CFO (2007-05-18)
Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation has hired industry veteran Mark Brockelman as its chief financial officer.
Fox network plans a series set in post-Katrina New Orleans (2007-05-18)
Fox will set a police drama in post-Katrina New Orleans next fall.
Company to serve probation, pay fine for styrene release (2007-05-18)
A Zachary pipe company will pay more than one (m) million dollars and serve three years' probation for illegal air emissions.
Hillary Clinton campaigns in New Orleans today (2007-05-18)
U-S Senator Hillary Clinton, who is running for the Democratic nomination for president, is scheduled to visit New Orleans today.
St. Bernard council plan phases out trailer parks (2007-05-16)
The Saint Bernard Parish Council has formally introduced a plan to begin phasing out the group government trailer sites dotting the parish
Latest try to save Alexandria's Hotel Bentley may be in trouble (2007-05-16)
The latest deal to revive the historic Hotel Bentley may not work out.
Duke study to focus on premature, underweight babies in South (2007-05-16)
Babies born in the South are more likely to be born premature and underweight than those born elsewhere in the country.
New computer model gives hope for forecasting hurricane intensity (2007-05-16)
Meteorologists have spent decades drastically improving predictions on where a looming hurricane could hit.
Plan hits snag in moving evacuees (2007-05-16)
The state has yet to sign a contract for the motor coaches critical to evacuating tens of thousands of New Orleans and Jefferson Parish residents who are expected to rely on southeast Louisiana's new public evacuation system if the region empties for a major storm.
Newborn abandoned outside Lake Charles apartments (2007-05-15)
Lake Charles authorities are searching for the parents of a newborn baby girl found outside an apartment complex.
Study: Restaurant air quality improves (2007-05-15)
An indoor air quality study shows a big improvement in Louisiana restaurants since a smoking ban started.
Trailer park plan on St. Bernard council agenda (2007-05-15)
The Saint Bernard Parish Council tonight will discuss a plan to begin phasing out the post-Katrina government trailer parks that dot the parish.
Baton Rouge housing market bucks trend, shows increase (2007-05-15)
April sales figures show Baton Rouge's housing market is still strong and capable of a few surprises.
Senator James David Cain Interview (2007-05-14)
Week three of the 2007 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature gets underway today. WRKF News Director Karen Henderson talks with State Senator James David Cain about what's going on at the capitol.
Woman surrenders after six-hour stand-off (2007-05-14)
A woman in Zachary is in trouble with the law after a six-hour stand-off with police outside her home.
Official: Man arrested after call prompts flight search, delay (2007-05-14)
At least one plane was delayed over the weekend at Alexandria International Airport after authorities received a call that a woman would try to board with a gun.
In E. Baton Rouge, deputies getting semiautomatic weapons (2007-05-14)
Deputies in East Baton Rouge Parish will soon be more heavily armed.
Livingston Parish bans fortune-telling (2007-05-11)
Opponents of a ban on fortune-telling all showed up after the vote or weren't able to get the council president's attention before the Livingston Parish council passed it unanimously.
LSU business dean leaving (2007-05-11)
The dean of L-S-U's E-J Ourso College of Business has accepted a similar position at the University of Georgia.
Alabama chosen by ThyssenKrupp for $4.2 billion steel plant (2007-05-11)
Alabama beat out Louisiana for a new four-point-two (b) billion dollar steel plant, dealing a disappointing blow to a state still reeling from hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Alabama chosen by ThyssenKrupp for $4.2 billion steel plant (2007-05-11)
Alabama beat out Louisiana for a new four-point-two (b) billion dollar steel plant, dealing a disappointing blow to a state still reeling from hurricanes Katrina and Rita.
Judicial panel backs judges' raise (2007-05-11)
The Judicial Compensation Commission is recommending that the Legislature adopt a cost-of-living pay increase for the state's judges.
Cargo airport backers say funds needed (2007-05-09)
Fifteen-year-old plans for a massive cargo airport and port near Donaldsonville are moving ahead, although a big question mark remains concerning state funding.
Survey on spending surplus, state's direction (2007-05-09)
A new survey conducted by L-S-U's Reilly Center for Media and Public Affairs shows 58 percent of Louisiana residents prefer using the budget surplus on recurring rather than one-time items.
New Orleans corps to get new commander (2007-05-09)
The new commander of the New Orleans District of the U-S Army Corps of Engineers will be Lieutenant Colonel Alvin Lee.
Alexander introduces hurricane relief bill (2007-05-09)
U-S Representative Rodney Alexander has introduced stand-alone legislation that would dedicate close to seven (b) billion dollars to fund Gulf Coast hurricane recovery.
Free demolition deadline extended (2007-05-08)
The city of New Orleans has set a May 21st deadline for property owners to sign up for a federal program that offers free demolitions of residential and commercial structures that still litter the landscape 20 months after Hurricane Katrina.
Colleges expect surge of freshmen (2007-05-08)
New Orleans universities are expecting surges of freshmen for the fall semester, based on dramatic increases in the number of students who have made financial commitments to come to the city less than two years after Hurricane Katrina.
Senate panel hearings delayed on major highway bills (2007-05-08)
Plans for quick action on two major highway bills have been derailed.
Katrina puts dent in foster-care parents (2007-05-08)
Louisiana has one-thousand more children in its foster-care system than it had before Hurricane Katrina and a shortage of households in which to place them.
Ethanol boom sinking corn in the land of cotton (2007-05-07)
An expected corn planting rush to feed growing ethanol demand will spread from the Corn Belt to the land of cotton.
DEQ: Expect more ozone alerts (2007-05-07)
State environmental officials say better forecasting and more public alerts are two of the changes people will likely see during this summer's ozone season, which is a concern in the region around Baton Rouge.
Poll observer plan advances (2007-05-07)
Legislation that would allow major political parties to send observers to the polls on election days has passed a House committee and is awaiting action in the House floor.
Resolution urges crisis plan (2007-05-07)
Citing the risk of violence on college campuses, state Senator Francis Heitmeier has filed Senate Concurrent Resolution Eight to urge post-secondary education institutions in Louisiana to develop emergency response and crisis communications plans.
Baton Rouge to host black mayors conference (2007-05-02)
More than two-thousand visitors are expected to converge in Baton Rouge this week for the National Conference of Black Mayors annual convention.
Edwards dominates early money race in pivotal South (2007-05-02)
Former North Carolina Senator John Edwards says he's the only Democratic presidential candidate with any chance of winning the South.
Worker shortage feared for state (2007-05-02)
Louisiana business leaders are being warned of soaring wages in coming years as companies compete for a falling supply of available, qualified workers.
Guard engineer battalion gets deployment orders (2007-05-02)
About 175 members of the Louisiana Army National Guard's 769th Engineer Battalion, with headquarters in Baton Rouge, have received mobilization orders and will deploy this summer.
Louisiana out of the loop for gun checks (2007-04-30)
Louisiana does not provide to federal authorities records of people whose mental condition should prevent them from owning a handgun.
John, Ieyoub still considering governor's race (2007-04-30)
Two Democrats, former U-S Representative Chris John and former Attorney General Richard Ieyoub, says they are still considering this year's governor's race.
Alternative fuels find home in Louisiana (2007-04-30)
Wood waste and agricultural waste could become alternative energy products if a pair of new companies planned for the West Monroe area are successful.
FEMA will bulk up Jefferson lakefront (2007-04-28)
FEMA has agreed to pay nine-point-two (m) million dollars to help replace the rock breakwater that Hurricane Katrina destroyed along the East Jefferson lakefront.
Baton Rouge acid plant admits violations (2007-04-28)
A north Baton Rouge acid plant has agreed with state and federal agencies to pay fines and improve air pollution controls as part of a four-state federal court consent decree.
UL Board set to vote on Robinson museum lease (2007-04-28)
Grambling State's oversight board is expected to approve a lease agreement today on space devoted to the proposed Eddie G- Robinson Museum.
Third exam slated for murder suspect (2007-04-19)
It remains unsettled whether a Baton Rouge man accused of killing his wife and shooting her relatives inside a Baton Rouge church last year is mentally competent to stand trial.
70 percent of Road Home applicants keeping homes (2007-04-19)
Officials say more than 125-thousand Louisiana homeowners have applied for grants under the state's seven-and-a-half (b) billion dollar Road Home hurricane repair and buyout program, and about 70 percent of them indicate they plan to keep their homes and repair or rebuild.
Blanco seeks to boost classes for 4-year-olds (2007-04-19)
Educators say nearly every four-year-old from poor families would be enrolled in education classes if Governor Kathleen Blanco's plan to boost spending on the effort wins approval.
Insurer receives rate increase (2007-04-19)
The state Insurance Rating Commission has delayed a vote on rate increases requested by two Zurich North America companies, which would have raised some homeowners rates by as much as 340 percent.
Bill would let Citizens lower premiums (2007-04-18)
Legislation that would make homeowners policies sold by the state-run Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation competitive with private insurers has been filed for debate in the session that begins at the end of the month.
Port group urges state to pay for development (2007-04-18)
Louisiana's ports need nearly 850 (m) million dollars over the next five years to complete more than 100 capital improvement projects. But they won't be able to begin those projects unless the state increases the amount of money it allocates to port development.
LABI: State budget plan inflated (2007-04-18)
The finance man for Louisiana's major business lobby says the Blanco administration's calculation of how much state government can legally spend is inflated.
Gov. Blanco orders action on student safety (2007-04-18)
L-S-U, Southern University and the rest of the state's colleges are fast-tracking plans for text messaging to students' and employees' cell phones during emergencies.
Lawyer: Pokey Chatman did not freely give up job (2007-04-17)
An attorney for Pokey Chatman says she and L-S-U officials are in talks about the former women's basketball coach's departure.
Prosecutors want Odom charges restored (2007-04-17)
The lead prosecutor in the corruption case against state Agriculture Commissioner Bob Odom is urging appellate court judges to restore the seven charges she claims were wrongfully dismissed by the presiding judge earlier this year.
Peppi Bruneau speeds up resignation (2007-04-17)
Representative Peppi Bruneau of New Orleans unexpectedly ended his legislative career at the close of business yesterday, two weeks earlier than scheduled.
La. ordered to pay video game attorneys' fees (2007-04-16)
Louisianians are stuck paying for lawyers on both sides of a video-gaming law declared unconstitutional.
Presidential candidates coming to La. capital (2007-04-16)
Four Democratic presidential hopefuls are scheduled to visit Louisiana next month during the 33rd annual convention of the National Conference of Black Mayors.
Senator speaks out on health care dollars (2007-04-16)
The chairman of the Senate Health and Welfare Committee is pointing to a recent report by a Washington, D-C think tank as proof that Louisiana officials were right to reject health care financing changes proposed by the U-S Department of Health and Human Services.
SBA disaster loans getting checkup (2007-04-16)
The Small Business Administration is taking a hard look at how it awards disaster loans. The S-B-A also will address problems that surfaced when it lent money to thousands in the wake of the 2005 hurricane season.
Entergy rate increase includes $30M in perks for execs (2007-04-16)
Entergy Arkansas Incorporated has agreed even before the fighting gets loud to eliminate executives' country-club dues and charitable donations from a 106-point-five (m) million dollar rate increase it is seeking.
Biodiesel facility planned near Franklin (2007-04-13)
A facility to turn soybean oil into biodiesel fuel is planned for the Port of West Saint Mary near Franklin.
Jefferson Parish trailer residents can appeal to inspectors (2007-04-13)
Jefferson Parish residents cited for keeping FEMA trailers they don't need can now appeal directly to the inspectors who post the notices.
Man charged with illegally contacting LSU players for sports agent (2007-04-13)
An indictment alleges that a 42-year-old Houston man illegally sent two L-S-U football players text messages on behalf of a sports agent.
PAR chief: Money to rule session (2007-04-13)
President Jim Brandt of the Public Affairs Research Council says expect the upcoming legislative session, which will center on money, to be contentious and partisan.
Ex-LSU professor pleads guilty in wife's death (2007-04-12)
A retired L-S-U French studies professor has pleaded guilty to manslaughter and obstruction of justice in the 2004 death of his wife.
Covington councilman's suit contests election (2007-04-12)
Covington City Councilman Guy Williams has filed suit contesting the results of the March 31st election in which he lost his District A seat by two votes to Frances Dunn.
Authorities say two LSU players arrested (2007-04-12)
Authorities say two L-S-U football players were arrested this week. They are accused of burglarizing a campus apartment then running up more than 200 dollars in online purchases using a stolen credit card.
New budget has revamp of Medicaid (2007-04-12)
The Blanco administration is proposing a six-point-two (b) billion dollar Medicaid budget for the coming year that includes money to revamp how health care is delivered in the hurricane-struck New Orleans area.
Lawyers: e-mails can help prove Katrina case against State Farm (2007-04-11)
State Farm Insurance Companies had threatened to fire a firm hired to inspect storm-damaged homes after Hurricane Katrina, and firm leaders suggested in e-mails that the insurer was dissatisfied with how it was reporting damage.
Van Chancellor in "serious" talks to replace Chatman at LSU (2007-04-11)
Neither Hall of Fame women's basketball coach Van Chancellor nor the senior associate athletic director at L-S-U, which needs to replace women's coach Pokey Chatman, would call it a job interview.
Grambling remembers Eddie Robinson and prepares for the funeral (2007-04-11)
Eddie Robinson's burial today marks the end of three days of events to honor the long-time Grambling coach, who died last week at age 88.
FEMA doles out alternative housing aid to Mississippi; Landrieu objects (2007-04-10)
The Federal Emergency Management Agency released 275 (m) million dollars for alternative housing to Mississippi, despite a request by U-S Senator Mary Landrieu to hold onto the money until a May hearing about the fairness of the spending.
Engineer favors pump, floodgate for basin (2007-04-10)
An engineering firm is recommending that the East Ascension Drainage Commission build a floodgate and pumping station in the Henderson Bayou basin.
Corps Katrina claims $400 billion and counting (2007-04-10)
Katrina claims against the Army Corps of Engineers are a staggering 400-(b) billion dollars in damages.
Art Car Parade Rolls Saturday (2007-04-06)
More than 30 artworks/vehicles will roll Saturday through downtown Baton Rouge.
Hurricane director says season likely to be above normal (2007-04-04)
The National Hurricane Center director said today that the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season will likely be above normal. Bill Proenza says there are a lot of things that could happen in the atmosphere that could have a bearing on the season
Consultant: lack of staff hurts Citizens' recovery (2007-04-04)
Louisiana's insurer of last resort needs a new management team. That's the recommendation of a consultant hired to clean up its accounting mess and at least one of its board members agree.
Grambling's Eddie Robinson dies at 88 (2007-04-04)
Legendary former Grambling State University football coach Eddie Robinson has died. He was 88.
Corps to bolster 17th Street Canal floodwall (2007-04-03)
The Army Corps of Engineers will build rock and clay structures along the east bank of the 17th Street Canal to bolster 450 feet of floodwall on both sides of Veterans Memorial Boulevard.
Colorado State forecaster predicts 'very active' hurricane season (2007-04-03)
Colorado State University hurricane forecaster William Gray is predicting a ``very active'' hurricane season, with 17 named storms in the Atlantic in 2007.
Court stops enrollment for state Group Benefits (2007-04-03)
The state Office of Group Benefits did not start its annual enrollment as scheduled yesterday because of a last-minute challenge by one of the insurance companies taken off the menu.
Lenders want to keep installment option (2007-04-02)
If the state's mortgage lenders have their way, the recent federal rebuke of Louisiana's Road Home program won't change the way most of the rebuilding grant applicants get their money. Lenders want to keep the installment option.
Councilman upset over taxpayer-funded beads (2007-04-02)
The Lafayette City-Parish Council's use of public money to buy Mardi Gras beads is drawing criticism from at least one member of the council.
Medical Home Model set for New Orleans (2007-04-02)
State health officials are eyeing the New Orleans area for a 25 (m) million dollar pilot program they hope will show that the ``medical home'' system of care for the uninsured can work effectively.
Despite concerns, tax-credit housing can still be successful (2007-04-02)
A study by the Mississippi Center for Justice found Hurricane Katrina took away 41-point-five percent of subsidized rental housing and 43-point-five percent of the market-rate rental housing in the three Coast counties.
Morial says he will remain neutral in governor's race (2007-04-02)
National Urban League President Marc Morial declined to wade into the 2007 governor's race or the debate over whether former U-S Senator John Breaux, a Democrat, should be in it.
Ruling sought on whether Entergy exec can stay on BR park board (2007-04-02)
A Baton Rouge political activist is seeking a state Ethics Board ruling on whether East Baton Rouge Recreation and Park Commissioner Bill Benedetto has a conflict of interest because he works as regional manager for Entergy, which sells power to the agency.
IT expert optimistic on Citizens (2007-03-30)
An information technology expert says the computer systems muddle at the state-backed insurer of last resort may be cleared in three months if everything goes well.
Drilling rig damaged by hurricane repaired (2007-03-30)
The drilling rig on the Mars platform, which was toppled by Hurricane Katrina and caused the huge platform to be out of service for nine months, has finally been reinstalled with stronger clamps designed to withstand even more severe hurricanes.
Teacher wins grade suit (2007-03-30)
A Baton Rouge federal jury has awarded more than one-point-four (m) million dollars to a West Feliciana High School English teacher punished for refusing to change failing student grades.
Regulators trim limits on red snapper catch in Gulf of Mexico (2007-03-30)
The recreational bag limit for red snapper will be cut in half in the Gulf of Mexico for the coming season.
Officers being investigated over possible payroll issues (2007-03-29)
New Orleans Police detectives are investigating dozens of officers over alleged payroll issues.
GAO looking into faulty New Orleans' pumps (2007-03-29)
The Government Accountability Office is probing the installation of faulty drainage pumps in New Orleans.
School to undergo tests (2007-03-29)
The parents of a Plantation Elementary School student plan to test the school for mold toxins Saturday after a three-month battle with the district for access to the campus.
Trooper shot after traffic stop (2007-03-29)
A man stopped for a traffic violation shot a state trooper during a fight early today. A manhunt is underway by state troopers and Saint Martin Parish sheriff's deputies.
House extends tax credit for Katrina-related housing construction (2007-03-28)
The U-S House has approved a two-year extension of a program offering tax credits for construction of low-income housing in areas hit by Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
No cause found for Lake Peigneur bubbling (2007-03-28)
Two divers hired by the state found nothing to explain why people who live nearby sometimes see bubbling in Lake Peigneur (pen-YUR').
St. Bernard Parish likely to want LRA lots cleared (2007-03-28)
The Saint Bernard Parish agency charged with accepting properties bought by the Louisiana Road Home program is devising its own guidelines that are expected to say it will take ownership of lots only if they're cleared of Hurricane Katrina-damaged homes and slabs.
Sulphur sewage pipeline fixed, but oyster beds still closed (2007-03-27)
The City of Sulphur had fixed the pipeline that let 12 (m) million to 16 (m) million gallons of raw sewage into Bayou d'Inde before nearby oyster beds were closed.
Surge in general cargo bolsters Port of New Orleans (2007-03-27)
General cargo handled at the Port of New Orleans climbed 21 percent in 2006 compared to 2005, despite the continued decline in container cargo handled at the port.
Agency OKs $1.7 million ad campaign (2007-03-27)
The Louisiana Tourism Promotion District, which approves spending of advertising dollars, has voted to spend one-point-seven (m) million dollars for an extended tourism advertising campaign this summer.
Sewage spill leads to oyster area closures in SW a. (2007-03-26)
Louisiana health officials have closed two oyster growing areas in the Calcasieu estuary because of a sewage spill in Bayou D'Inde.
Foti asks for changes in law (2007-03-26)
State Attorney General Charles Foti has called on the Legislature to examine two changes in the law that would give him more latitude in hiring specialized outside lawyers and allow his office to look into the conduct of insurance companies.
Levee leaks spur call for action (2007-03-26)
Raising rice and cattle in Vermilion Parish has long been not only a parish cultural tradition but an economic driving force in the coastal Acadiana parish.
Citizens' growth slows (2007-03-26)
The number of property owners covered by the Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation is growing rapidly this year, but not quite as much as earlier predictions.
Free bus continues to June 30 (2007-03-26)
The state Department of Transportation and Development says the free bus service between Baton Rouge and New Orleans has been extended through June 30th.
Camp Wi-Ta-Wentin gets help from spring breakers (2007-03-26)
Camp Wi-Ta-Wentin in Calcasieu Parish which suffered damage from hurricane Rita is getting help to get the camp in shape for summer campers from college students around the nation looking for an alternative spring break.
Road Home protest set for tomorrow (2007-03-23)
A faith-based community group is planning a rally and march tomorrow at the State Capitol to demand changes to Louisiana's hurricane recovery program and a federal probe of the private contractor running the embattled program.
More problems in Citizens' bookkeeping emerge (2007-03-23)
The state's insurer of last resort has not balanced its checkbook for the past year and a half. That's a failure of fundamental record keeping that came to the attention of the insurer's board.
Grambling student died from rare hereditary brain tumor (2007-03-23)
An autopsy has found that a 23-year-old Grambling State University student who collapsed and died this month was killed by a rare hereditary brain tumor.
Judge resets trial for Gillis for April 17 (2007-03-23)
A state judge changed for the second time the starting date of the scheduled murder trial in West Baton Rouge Parish of accused serial killer Sean Vincent Gillis.
Bill to halt school zone cell talk (2007-03-20)
Drivers would not be able to talk on cell phones when traveling through active school zones, if a bill filed by a Slidell lawmaker becomes law.
Allstate backs off policy cancellations (2007-03-20)
Allstate Insurance is willing to call off the cancellations of four-thousand homeowner policies along Louisiana's Gulf Coast.
Corps to clear out debris from hurricanes (2007-03-20)
The sight of Army personnel trooping through back yards this week should not alarm Jefferson Parish residents.
FEMA grants Calcasieu Parish gets work extension (2007-03-20)
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has granted Calcasieu Parish a 12-month blanket extension for ongoing permanent work projects -- reversing its earlier decision to deny an extension.
Sen. Fields' plan would create agency to police ethics (2007-03-15)
A Baton Rouge senator says he's preparing legislation to create a separate commission to police the ethics of lawmakers as they conduct legislative business.
3 ID'd in LEAP test theft inquiry (2007-03-15)
Superintendent Glenn Brady says three East Feliciana Parish school system employees accused of stealing a copy of a fourth-grade LEAP test are temporary workers hired to fill in for absent workers.
Florida firm to help sort out mess at Citizens (2007-03-15)
A Florida firm that specializes in troubleshooting accounting software has been hired to unravel the snarled financial records of Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation.
Workers arrested in LEAP test theft (2007-03-14)
Jackson Police have arrested three East Feliciana Parish school system employees accused of stealing a single copy of a fourth-grade LEAP test scheduled to be given statewide next week.
Prosecutors plan to use Gillis remark (2007-03-14)
Near the end of a motion hearing yesterday, prosecutors mentioned a grisly statement by accused serial killer Sean Vincent Gillis, and said it will be presented at his trial.
LSUA chancellor Cavanaugh will retire in August (2007-03-14)
The face of Louisiana State University at Alexandria will change in August.
New Orleans pumps were faulty (2007-03-14)
Those massive flood-control pumps put in place in time to protect New Orleans at the start of the 2006 hurricane season might not have been able to do the job.
Adjacent LSU-VA hospitals hit hurdle (2007-03-13)
Officials with the Veterans Affairs Department say they will look for an alternative to the downtown New Orleans site that has been identified as the location for a new hospital complex. The move could scuttle a long-planned collaboration with L-S-U.
LRA looking at rental vouchers for hurricane victims (2007-03-13)
The state's hurricane recovery authority is considering whether to spend some of its pool of rental aid on vouchers for renters to pay apartment deposits, to cover a few months of rent or to buy household items.
Pet rescued from Hurricane Katrina is focus of custody battle (2007-03-13)
An Arizona judge will decide whether a dog rescued after Hurricane Katrina swept through southern Louisiana belongs to a Louisiana woman or a California couple.
Chicken fat spill shuts down interstate in north La. (2007-03-13)
A stinky, slippery chicken fat spill shut down part of Interstate 20 for hours during the afternoon rush, causing major traffic jams throughout the area.
Plans announced for I-49, future evac route; Hearings set (2007-03-13)
Public hearings are set this month on the state's plans to build a stretch of Interstate 49 from Raceland to Westwego, along a route that gets mixed reviews in Saint Charles Parish.
Crashes, cucumbers snarl I-10 in Iberville Parish (2007-03-12)
Crashes by two tractor-trailers on Interstate 10 eastbound in Iberville Parish shut down the roadway for five hours Sunday.
Despite low population, New Orleans sales taxes bouncing back (2007-03-12)
The population of New Orleans is believed to be no more than half what it was before Hurricane Katrina hit but city sales tax collections for December reached nearly 88 percent of the December 2004 level.
Teachers group urges caution on pay (2007-03-12)
The president of the professional teacher organization known as A-PEL, the Association of Professional Educators of Louisiana, says the Legislature should show fiscal restraint at its upcoming legislative session.
PAR: Recovery District good for N.O. schools (2007-03-12)
Although progress has been slower than hoped for, the Public Affairs Research Council says efforts to dismantle the Recovery School District and return management of New Orleans schools to the Orleans Parish School Board are misguided.
Republican endorsement rules could be adjusted (2007-03-12)
Leaders of the Louisiana Republican Party will consider the touchy issue of changing its rules on endorsements in political races when the Central Committee meets Saturday at the Cajundome in Lafayette.
Rep. Heaton moves into Republican column (2007-03-12)
State Representative Alex Heaton, who represents the 95th District in New Orleans, has switched parties from Democrat to Republican.
PAR: Recovery District good for N.O. schools (2007-03-09)
Although progress has been slower than hoped for, the Public Affairs Research Council says efforts to dismantle the Recovery School District and return management of New Orleans schools to the Orleans Parish School Board are misguided
Grambling State student dies, cause unknown (2007-03-09)
A student at Grambling State University collapsed in the admissions office where she sometimes volunteered and later died.
Allstate: La. insurance chief overstepped authority on policies (2007-03-09)
Allstate Insurance is resisting an order from Louisiana's insurance department to reinstate four-thousand-700 homeowner policies that the company canceled in four parishes hit by Hurricane Katrina.
Bubbling in Lake Peigneur troubling (2007-03-09)
The Louisiana Department of Natural Resouces says it will be at least another week before they can report on what divers found when they went to check on mysterious bubbling in Lake Peignuer in Iberia Parish.
No answers yet to questions about bubbling (2007-03-09)
The Louisiana Department of Natural Resouces says it will be at least another week before they can report on what divers found when they went to check on mysterious bubbling in Lake Piegnuer in Iberia Parish.
Teacher pay gap difficult to figure (2007-03-08)
Educators say Governor Kathleen Blanco's plan to boost salaries for teachers in public schools to the regional average is complicated by disputes on just what the gap is now.
More than 50 mailboxes vandalized (2007-03-08)
More than 50 mailboxes have been damaged in two recent vandalism sprees in Beauregard Parish, and a reward is being offered for help in solving the case.
Grant applications near state estimate (2007-03-08)
The number of homeowners applying for grants under Louisiana's Road Home hurricane repair and buyout program is rapidly approaching the state's estimate of how many homeowners will be eligible for a share of the seven-and-a-half (b) billion dollars
Guardsman shoots, kills man in New Orleans who had threatened police (2007-03-08)
New Orleans Police say a National Guardsman shot and killed a man early today who threw a piece of broken glass at a National Guard patrol and later pointed what guardsmen and police thought was a rifle at them.
Old plane crash wreckage from 1966 (2007-03-07)
Old plane wreckage found in the Achafalaya Basin turns out to be from a crash that the pilot slogged away from 41 years ago.
Citizens faces financial crisis over computer glitch (2007-03-07)
The state-backed insurance agency has been unable to look at its financial records for months because of a software glitch and might have to recreate its books from scratch.
State plans to change insurance plans (2007-03-07)
About 35-thousand people could change health insurance plans soon because of a state Office of Group Benefits decision to drop its managed-care option.
UL graduate adds another defendant to sexual harassment suit (2007-03-07)
Kelly May, the Louisiana-Lafayette graduate who sued her political science professor for sexual harassment last year, has added David Walker, U-L's interim athletic director, to her lawsuit.
State rebuffs St. Charles Parish on I-49 route (2007-03-07)
State officials studying the route for the proposed extension of Interstate 49 between Lafayette and Marrero have rejected a request from Saint Charles Parish officials to send the new roadway well south of developed areas.
West Feliciana desegregation lawsuit dismissed after 42 years (2007-03-07)
U-S District Judge James Brady has dismissed a desegregation suit filed nearly 42 years ago against the West Feliciana Parish School Board.
Human remains found in debris (2007-03-06)
Authorities are trying to determine if a skull and other human body parts found in eastern New Orleans yesterday are those of a victim of Hurricane Katrina.
Grand jury to meet on Memorial Medical deaths (2007-03-06)
A grand jury meets for the first time today to begin their investigation into the deaths of four patients at a sweltering, flooded hospital during Hurricane Katrina.
Tobacco ruling review denied (2007-03-06)
A five-judge state appeals court panel says it won't revisit its February seventh decision to slash a New Orleans jury's 2004 verdict that required four big tobacco companies to pay 591 (m) million dollars to help Louisiana smokers kick the habit.
Ascension Parish tops in West Nile virus (2007-03-06)
The state Department of Health and Hospital says Ascension Parish had the greatest concentration of mosquito-borne West Nile virus cases in the state in 2006.
OSHA talks to shoring firm after house falls on workers (2007-03-06)
Kenner Police are looking at whether negligence played a part in the accident that killed a shoring worker who was trapped when the house he was working on fell on him and other members of his crew.
Christian Acres escapees in custody (2007-03-02)
Three juveniles who escaped from the Christian Acres Residential Facility in Tallulah Wednesday night and went on a crime spree were back in custody.
Waiver of 10 percent match for Louisiana clears hurdle (2007-03-02)
A House committee approved legislation that would waive the 10 percent match required by Louisiana on all federal disaster money. It's a move that could save the state an estimated 800 (m) million dollars.
Alcohol testing planned at dances (2007-03-02)
In an attempt to curb drinking at school functions and the serious consequences that could occur, the Vermilion Parish School Board passed a new policy mandating breath alcohol testing at some school dances.
Court rejects motion to remove judge in Livingston murder case (2007-03-02)
State District Judge Ernest Drake Junior rejected a motion to remove a judge handling a first-degree murder case because of that judge's family relationship with the prosecutor.
Ex-GOP official pleads guilty (2007-02-27)
A former chairman of the East Baton Rouge Parish Republican Party won't do any jail time for diverting more than eleven-thousand dollars from a bank where he worked as a loan officer.
BESE may appoint acting official (2007-02-27)
Top state educators say they may name an acting superintendent of education on Thursday to succeed Cecil Picard, who died earlier this month.
Police chief, DA vow to work together (2007-02-27)
New Orleans Police Chief Warren Riley says he has met repeatedly with Orleans District Attorney Eddie Jordan and police have agreed to fast-track the delivery of evidence to prosecutors.
Local calling area soon to expand (2007-02-27)
Beginning this spring, telephone calls from homes and businesses in Saint Tammany Parish to neighboring Tangipahoa and Washington parishes will no longer incur long-distance charges.
State building demolition set for July (2007-02-23)
The fourth major downtown state office building is coming down. It will be the last demolition in a decade-long redevelopment plan for the State Capitol area that is costing close to 400 (m) million dollars.
Court decision frees Lafayette to begin fiber optic system (2007-02-23)
A state Supreme Court decision has freed the Lafayette Utilities System to begin its long-delayed plan to bring low-cost phone, cable and high-speed Internet to homes and businesses in the city.
St. Bernard approves grass-cutting fine (2007-02-23)
The Saint Bernard Parish Council has permanently adopted a law imposing daily fines on property owners who have not cut their grass or secured their hurricane-damaged properties.
Emergency responders say they're better prepared for hurricanes (2007-02-22)
Military leaders huddle with civilian responders today in Colorado to make sure they are prepared for the 2007 hurricane season.
Extradition hearing set for suspect in Calcasieu deputy's death (2007-02-22)
Calcasieu District Attorney John DeRosier is traveling to Louisville, Kentucky, today to participate in an extradition hearing for a 29-year-old man police believe killed Deputy Alan Inzer.
4 railroad crossings get lights, gates in Tangipahoa Parish (2007-02-21)
Warning lights and automated gates have been installed at four railroad grade crossings outside Independence and Kentwood.
1 killed, 3 hurt in three incidents on Fat Tuesday (2007-02-21)
A relatively crime-free Mardi Gras day turned violent after dark.
Allegiant Air plans extra summer Las Vegas flights (2007-02-21)
A little more than a year after it started flights out of Shreveport Regional Airport, Nevada-based Allegiant Air says it will beef up its twice-a-week runs to Las Vegas.
Road Home shifts stance on funding appraisals (2007-02-21)
The Louisiana's Road Home program has agreed to pay for certified local appraisers to correct tens of thousands of pre-storm home values in hopes of unclogging what may be the biggest bottleneck in getting federal grants to hurricane-displaced homeowners.
Teen killed in Lafayette crash (2007-02-19)
A 17-year-old Saint Martinville girl was killed and four others injured in a two vehicle crash in Lafayette.
Mardi Gras is global, from Moscow (Idaho) to Moscow (Russia) (2007-02-19)
In New Orleans, people throw gew-gaws from parade floats. In Cajun country, they ride from farm to farm, clowning and singing to beg ingredients for a communal gumbo.
Chill doesn't deter Carnival crowds (2007-02-19)
A biting chill did little to deter Carnival revelers who turned out in force in New Orleans to watch the parades rolling through the city on the last weekend before Mardi Gras.
Arrest warrant issued in fatal fire (2007-02-19)
Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's deputies say arrest warrants have been issued for 29-year-old Michael Varnado in the death of a mother and her two young children, who died in a fire Friday inside their FEMA trailer home.
Odom lawyers try to omit charges (2007-02-16)
Pretrial wrangling continued this week in the public corruption case against Agriculture Commissioner Bob Odom.
BESE to give school chance to improve (2007-02-16)
The state's top school board has reversed field and voted to let Pointe Coupee Central High School try to improve its operations before the school faces other academic sanctions.
Port of So. La. plans to beef up security (2007-02-16)
Saying that it must beef up security along its three-parish jurisdiction, the Port of South Louisiana plans to contract with the Saint Charles, Saint John the Baptist and Saint James Parish sheriff's offices for extra patrols, and to station a response vessel in each parish.
Nine people shot in less than seven hours, 2 dead (2007-02-16)
Six people were shot inside a New Orleans nightclub early today just hours after a triple shooting left two dead and one wounded.
New Orleans scandal nets home confinement for subcontractor (2007-02-15)
A subcontractor tied to a New Orleans City Hall scandal involving a huge energy management contract has been sentenced to four months of home confinement for failing to report a crime.
Dubai Ports deal hits snag with NY-NJ authority over Newark port (2007-02-15)
Dubai Ports World, whose planned takeover of major port operations in New York and New Jersey sparked a political firestorm last year, plans to sell off those operations to a U-S based firm.
Evidence barred in case against Saint (2007-02-15)
The state's case against Saints offensive tackle Jammal Brown, who is charged with domestic abuse, was sidelined yesterday after a judge decided key evidence can't be used in his trial.
Rendering plant pleads not guilty of violating city's odor law (2007-02-14)
Operators of a Shreveport rendering plant have pleaded NOT guilty to violating the city's new law against ``offensive or noxious'' odors
Panel to name acting superintendent (2007-02-14)
A committee of the state's top school board will pick an acting superintendent of education by March 14th to replace long-time Superintendent Cecil Picard, who is ill.
Superintendent: Never told about Pointe Coupee school takeover plan (2007-02-14)
The state education board didn't notify the Pointe Coupee school system that it planned to take over a high school before it took out a legal advertisement last week.
Wal-Mart opens 14 walk-in clinics in South (2007-02-14)
A cost-cutting medical retailer that operates inside Wal-Mart stores, is opening fourteen new clinics in Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi today.
Lafayette snuffs limit on number of pets (2007-02-14)
The Lafayette City-Parish Council has killed a proposed ordinance that would have limited the number of dogs and cats people could house outside in a residential area.
Company asks to use cavern as waste site (2007-02-13)
A company is seeking state approval to dispose of oilfield waste inside a salt cavern on Weeks Island. It's the first such facility to be proposed under new regulations that allow waste disposal in the massive underground formations.
Powerful storm rips through New Orleans area, kills 1, injures 15 (2007-02-13)
A powerful storm and likely a tornado hit the New Orleans area early today, killing an elderly woman, injuring at least 15 other people, and damaging dozens of business and homes in a region still trying to recover from Hurricane Katrina.
Acadiana has weather damage overnight (2007-02-13)
Hail and heavy winds skipped through Acadiana overnight, damaging homes and structures in southern Lafayette, Iberia and Saint Martin parishes, although there are no immediate reports of injury.
Irma Thomas wins first Grammy (2007-02-12)
The Queen of New Orleans Soul has won her first Grammy.
Jury selection scheduled to start in Katrina suit (2007-02-12)
Jury selection for a lawsuit against Allstate Indemnity Company is set to start today in New Orleans.
Court to hear more arguments over prayer (2007-02-12)
A federal appeals court will hear a second set of arguments on whether prayers used to open meetings of the Tangipahoa Parish School Board are constitutional.
Dip in fed expense rate will mean less pay for state lawmakers (2007-02-12)
Lawmakers will see a cut in their daily pay when they meet in regular session beginning April 30th.
Report on New Orleans transit system reflects spotty recovery (2007-02-12)
Ridership figures for New Orleans' mass transit system reflect the spotty recovery of the city's population and economy.
Doctors: ERs overflowing even without Mardi Gras (2007-02-09)
Mardi Gras will add even more stress to emergency rooms and ambulance services that have overflowed regularly since Hurricane Katrina, and help is needed.
Board punishes 5 in bus incidents (2007-02-09)
Four Lafayette Parish school bus drivers and one bus attendant have been suspended without pay for leaving students unattended on buses. The Lafayette Parish School Board released information about only two of the incidents.
U.S. government faces massive suit over 17th Street Canal breach (2007-02-09)
The federal government and Army Corps of Engineers are targeted in a new lawsuit that alleges flooding during Hurricane Katrina was the fault of a corps decision to allow dredging of the 17th Street Canal, weakening the soil base that supported its levees.
Driver jumps into river, drowns after traffic stop (2007-02-09)
When police tried to stop a car for speeding, Lafayette Parish Sheriff's deputies say the driver refused to stop, crashed, jumped into the nearby Vermilion River and drowned.
Is a Mardi Gras rebound in the offing for New Orleans? (2007-02-09)
Amid myriad problems that have bogged down its recovery, New Orleans is hoping for a rebound for the annual Carnival spectacle that provides a big chunk of its tourist economy.
Some parents outraged that pepper spray used to end school fight (2007-02-09)
A Lafayette police officer on school patrol used pepper spray to break up a fight between two eighth-grade girls over a basketball.
Suspicious package shuts down Calcasieu Parish DA's office (2007-02-08)
The Calcasieu Parish District Attorney's Office was shut down for more than three hours as law enforcement agencies investigated a suspicious package left by the back door under the office's smoking porch.
Body found in Beaumont home more than year after Rita (2007-02-08)
Autopsy results are pending on a body found recently in a Beaumont, Texas home damaged by Hurricane Rita more than a year ago.
4th Circuit cuts award in tobacco case (2007-02-08)
A state appeal court cut a jury's 591 (m) million dollar verdict against tobacco companies by more than half. A plaintiffs' attorney called the ruling a great victory for smokers, while a tobacco company said it would appeal.
Calcasieu Lake debris removal almost done (2007-02-08)
After more than a year of dodging debris that Hurricane Rita tossed into Calcasieu Lake, boaters may soon be in for smooth sailing again.
Regions to sell or consolidate some Alabama banks (2007-02-08)
Regions Financial Corporation says it plans to either sell or consolidate 10 branches in the Birmingham area. The action is part of its merger with AmSouth Bancorp.
Boasso enters governor's race (2007-02-05)
Republican state Senator Walter Boasso announced today that he will enter the race to unseat Democratic incumbent Governor Kathleen Blanco.
Governor to press needs of state in Washington (2007-02-05)
Governor Kathleen Blanco will fly to the nation's capital to for a week-long lobbying effort on behalf of Louisiana and hurricane recovery.
Former SIU chancellor seeks LSU presidency (2007-02-05)
A man ousted two months ago at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale is among two Illinois candidates seeking the top administrative post at Louisiana State University.
LSU urges Union fee boost (2007-02-02)
L-S-U is proposing a student fee increase that will eventually cost an extra 34 dollars a semester to fund increasing costs for the L-S-U Union expansion.
Dardenne says voting evacuees won't be purged (2007-02-02)
Some lawmakers will try to resurrect special state laws that made it easier for hurricane-displaced residents to vote in Louisiana elections last year.
Mayo team in New Orleans to fill health gap left by Katrina (2007-02-02)
A group of Mayo Clinic health workers are in New Orleans this week to treat people in a clinic for people who don't have insurance or access to doctors.
Hotel Bentley sale expected March 15 (2007-02-02)
The chief executive officer of the Baton Rouge company poised to purchase the Hotel Bentley says that Cyntreniks Hospitality Company L-L-C will close the multimillion-dollar deal on March 15th.
New Orleans police officers to find out if they face death penalty (2007-02-01)
Earlier this week, several New Orleans police officers charged in a deadly shooting during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina returned to work. Now, some await word about whether they will face the death penalty.
Cop killer's attorney no-show for appeal (2007-02-01)
The lead attorney for Shedran Williams, convicted last year in the shooting death of Baton Rouge Police officer, failed to show up for two hearings this week to argue why his client deserves a new trial.
Call Center closure to eliminate 230 jobs (2007-02-01)
A nine-year-old Baton Rouge call center that once carried a 10 (m) million dollar payroll will close in a month, ending 230 jobs.
Coroner finds no evidence of homicide (2007-02-01)
Orleans Parish Coroner Frank Minyard says the physical evidence does not support a finding of homicide in the case against Doctor Anna Maria Pou and two nurses at Memorial Medical Center. They have been accused of murdering four elderly patients in the days after Hurricane Katrina.
Murphy Oil says lower production trimmed earnings (2007-02-01)
Murphy Oil Corporation says lower production in its natural gas and oil fields trimmed the company's earnings for the fourth quarter and the year just ended.
Coastal restoration proceeds, thanks to 2005 salinity law (2007-01-31)
Louisiana will start five new coastal restoration projects this year, thanks to a law that protects it from lawsuits claiming oyster leases were destroyed by fresh water diverted from rivers into wetlands.
Salvage work to begin for barges that sank after striking Natchez bridge (2007-01-31)
Sunken barges and a grain elevator are expected to be pulled from the Mississippi River this week if weather and current river levels permit.
Baton Rouge Police look for man who abducted, raped 12-year-old boy (2007-01-31)
Baton Rouge Police are looking for a man who raped a 12-year-old boy inside a warehouse after abducting the child.
Louisiana couple taking Allstate to court (2007-01-31)
In a federal lawsuit, a Marrero family accuses Allstate Indemnity Company of arbitrary, capricious and bad-faith claims handling.
Ouster of Odom judge sought (2007-01-31)
State prosecutors have asked the Louisiana Supreme Court to oust District Judge Don Johnson from the criminal case against Agriculture Commissioner Bob Odom that is now set for a February 26th trial.
Federal judge orders St. Landry Parish School Board to court (2007-01-30)
A federal judge has ordered the Saint Landry Parish School Board to court tomorrow.
Pennsylvania leads nation in black homicide rate, Louisiana second (2007-01-30)
Pennsylvania leads the nation in the rate of black homicides, with nearly 30 deaths per 100-thousand black residents annually. That's according to a study released by the Violence Policy Center, a nonprofit research group.
Paragon expects Marksville to be Louisiana jewel (2007-01-30)
The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe is spending more than 100 (m) million dollars to expand its Paragon Casino Resort in Marksville into a premier resort destination.
Fire destroys sanctuary of Baton Rouge Church (2007-01-30)
An early morning fire has destroyed the sanctuary of the Ingelside United Methodist Church in Baton Rouge.
Six indicted officers to return to work today (2007-01-29)
The six New Orleans police officers indicted in a post-Katrina shooting on the Danziger Bridge will return to work today.
La. program seeks to get older students back to college (2007-01-29)
In a post-hurricane economy that has seen an exodus of workers, state education officials are touting a pilot program that seeks to get older students to go back to college.
South campus figures into LSU expansion (2007-01-29)
With the main campus of L-S-U nearly at capacity, the south campus may the site of future expansion at the state's flagship university.
Farmers hoping for status quo as Congress writes new farm bill (2007-01-29)
For Louisiana farmers, the 2007 congressional year should be like waiting for Christmas.
Blanco travels to the west coast to woo insurers (2007-01-29)
Governor Kathleen Blanco is in California to urge a large group of high-level insurance executives to come to Louisiana to write policies.
Firefighters say pay, buildings lacking since Katrina (2007-01-26)
New Orleans firefighters lack basic equipment, work out of FEMA trailers and are still waiting for pay raises promised nearly two months ago.
Obama, Durbin voice Katrina concern (2007-01-26)
Illinois' senators are voicing concern over how the victims of Katrina have been shortchanged by the government.
Ad campaign fights Katrina myths (2007-01-26)
The New Orleans Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau has unveiled an aggressive advertising and marketing campaign designed to bring doubtful visitors back to the city.
GSU lifts suspension of student paper (2007-01-26)
The suspension of The Gramblinite, the student newspaper of Grambling State University, has been lifted Thursday and a four-page special edition will appear today.
La. awaits input on how health insurance affected (2007-01-25)
The state's health chief, Fred Cerise, says federal health officials canceled a planned conference call with state officials to discuss Louisiana's proposed experiment with universal health insurance.
Blancos report $200,000 income (2007-01-25)
Governor Kathleen Blanco and her husband, Raymond Blanco, earned about 200,000 in salaries last year. That's according to financial disclosure records filed in Baton Rouge.
Insurance commissioner eyes State Farm's Mississippi case (2007-01-25)
Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says he will press State Farm to settle with disgruntled policyholders in Louisiana, now that the nation's largest residential insurer has reached a settlement on Hurricane Katrina claims in Mississippi.
Insurers warn La. against Fla. law (2007-01-25)
Insurance and business officials say Louisiana property owners would be hurt if this state's legislators follow the example of those in Florida and approve pro-consumer insurance reforms.
New ordinance allows removal of abandoned vehicles quickly (2007-01-25)
Abandoned vehicles in Alexandria will be towed to a junk yard faster now after a revamped law allows the city to bypass a lengthy court process.
DEQ permits Marathon refinery expansion (2007-01-23)
A three-point-two (b) billion dollar expansion, which officials say will turn a Garyville plant into one of the largest refineries in the country, has been given the go-ahead by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality.
Regents call for community college in Alexandria (2007-01-23)
The Board of Regents is calling for one of the state's community colleges to start providing services to students who can't meet new entry requirements for Louisiana State University in Alexandria.
Six Flags removes Batman from its New Orleans park (2007-01-23)
Six Flags has removed the Batman ride from its closed New Orleans amusement park to see whether the ride can be refurbished and sent to a functioning park.
Former FEMA head Brown says party politics played role in Katrina response (2007-01-22)
Former FEMA director Michael Brown says politics were a factor in decisions over whether to take federal control of areas affected by Hurricane Katrina.
Lafayette's new police chief wants more "proactive" policing (2007-01-22)
Lafayette's new police chief hopes to overcome a staff shortage and make his force a more ``proactive'' one.
Oil spill closes part of Intracoastal Waterway (2007-01-22)
The Coast Guard says an oil spill has closed a section of the Intracoastal Waterway south of Lake Salvador.
BESE searches for replacement for Picard (2007-01-22)
The head of the state education board hopes to find an interim replacement for the retiring superintendent of education by March.
State seeks to buy Tallulah facility (2007-01-19)
A Louisiana agency is one step away from purchasing a Tallulah correctional center that for years has been a target of criticism for the financial deals and management problems.
Skin lesions may be caused by staph infection, doctors say (2007-01-19)
Some doctors and researches believe a type of staph infection is causing skin lesions and sores that have shown up on Katrina-relief volunteers in recent months.
BR Police win ruling on records (2007-01-19)
A state court judge has ruled that Baton Rouge police internal affairs records from an investigation into claims of officer misconduct after Hurricane Katrina are not open for public inspection.
Dispute emerges between lawmakers, LRA over charity hospital (2007-01-19)
A 300 (m) million dollar pool of money for a new charity hospital in New Orleans is emerging as a flash-point in disagreements over the Louisiana Recovery Authority's role in policy decisions that were the territory of state lawmakers before Hurricane Katrina.
Hospital plans put on hold (2007-01-18)
Efforts to build a 300 (m) million dollar public hospital and trauma center in Baton Rouge are stymied because of problems acquiring land.
McPherson pre-files bill for health care fix (2007-01-18)
A legislative leader has unveiled a Louisiana health care restructuring proposal that he wants the state to adopt with or without the federal government's blessing.
PSC vote divides firm into 2 entities (2007-01-18)
The Public Service Commission has voted to split into two companies the utility that provides electricity for most of the Baton Rouge area.
Replacement of exit exam called premature (2007-01-17)
Some members of the state's top school board say a panel is moving too quickly to abolish the state Graduation Exit Exam as part of a push to remake public high schools in Louisiana.
Pipe, steel plant to open in Baton Rouge (2007-01-17)
A Minnesota company says it will open a pipe and steel fabrication plant in Baton Rouge, creating about 80 jobs in its first year of operation.
Evacuation plan to include those carless (2007-01-16)
John Renne, assistant professor of urban planning and transportation studies at the University of New Orleans, says Hurricane Katrina exposed just how vulnerable the estimated 130-thousand carless New Orleanians are during emergencies.
Baton Rouge home sales dip, value up (2007-01-16)
With the Katrina affect finally running out of steam in last year's third quarter, the Baton Rouge-area housing market ended 2006 with a small drop in home sales.
Third school opens in St. Bernard Parish (2007-01-16)
The Saint Bernard Parish will open its third school later this month.
Parents of embryo rescued after Hurricane Katrina celebrate birth of boy Tuesday (2007-01-16)
The parents of an embryo rescued from a flooded and sweltering hospital during the tumultuous weeks after Hurricane Katrina welcomed Noah Markham today.
Panel revamps high school curriculum (2007-01-12)
A state panel is recommending tougher curriculum, starting with ninth-graders in the fall 2008, as part of a wide-ranging bid to reinvent public high schools in Louisiana.
Code official guilty of disguise as a cop (2007-01-12)
A Jefferson Parish code-enforcement official has pleaded guilty to impersonating a police officer in connection with a Lake Pontchartrain Causeway toll-evasion probe that resulted in the conviction of several other commuters.
Louisiana Supreme Court to broadcast online (2007-01-12)
Starting next week, oral arguments at the Louisiana Supreme Court will be broadcast live through the court's Web site.
FEMA mounts flood insurance drive in Central Louisiana (2007-01-12)
Representatives with the Federal Emergency Management Agency will in Alexandria tomorrow (Saturday) stressing the importance of flood insurance as part of the federal ``Be Prepared, Be Flood Aware'' campaign.
LRA shifts stance on private school aid (2007-01-11)
Louisiana's storm-damaged private schools and colleges are slated to receive 40 (m) million dollars to cover the local matches for FEMA assistance.
La. delegation reacts to President Bush's new plan for Iraq (2007-01-11)
La. delegation reacts to President Bush's new plan for Iraq
ICF official backs off 500-a-day closings (2007-01-11)
The administrator of Louisiana's Road Home program is backing off a statement last month that it would hand out 500 grants a day to homeowners by the end of January.
Blanco aide argues claims on raises false (2007-01-11)
The Blanco administration is firing back at pundits who claim money is readily available to give teachers and other state workers a pay raise.
207 Louisiana teachers win national certification (2007-01-10)
More Louisiana teachers earned certification this year from a well-regarded national teaching organization, though the growth has slowed compared with the past.
New Orleans police to set up early morning checkpoints (2007-01-10)
New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin says city officials and police have ``had it'' with violence in the city. There have been nine murders already this year.
Voters to get say on Sunday liquor sales (2007-01-10)
Monroe voters will get a chance in March to decide whether to allow the unrestricted sale of alcohol on Sundays.
Seven New Orleans police officers investigated for beating man (2007-01-10)
As authorities searched for ways to stem the violence that has scattered nine bodies across New Orleans since New Year, police also are investigating seven of their own for allegedly beating a man in the French Quarter.
Prosecutor: 2 deaths occurred in N.O., not Jefferson Parish (2007-01-09)
Authorities says the investigation of accused serial killer Ronald Dominique, who claimed he killed 23 men in southeast Louisiana, will extend to New Orleans, where two victims may have been killed before their bodies were dumped in Jefferson Parish.
Officials plan 10 modular schools in New Orleans (2007-01-09)
Even after the state-run Recovery School District completes its plans to erect at least 10 modular campuses around New Orleans, some children in the eastern part of the city will have to be bused to schools in other parts of town next school year.
Two New Orleans police officers reassinged after brutality complaint (2007-01-09)
Two New Orleans police officers have been reassigned to desk duty after a complaint that they beat a 25-year-old man walking in the French Quarter late last month.
First Lady returns to New Orleans (2007-01-09)
First Lady Laura Bush returns to New Orleans today to give out more grants from her foundation to restore damaged libraries.
Appeals court blasts order for DNA swab during serial killer hunt (2007-01-08)
A federal appeals court has ruled that a state judge improperly allowed police to obtain the D-N-A of an innocent man as they hunted for a south Louisiana serial killer.
Report: Louisiana's roads, bridges ranked among the nation's worst (2007-01-08)
A national transportation research group says Louisiana has made little progress in improving the conditions of its roads and bridges in the past four years and gets failing grades for road safety and highway construction.
Prison dogs get new leash on life (2007-01-08)
When Warden Jimmy LeBlanc decided to take in some of the animals rescued after Hurricane Katrina he knew it would help the animals.
Pentecostals to hold national conference in Alexandria (2007-01-08)
About three-thousand Pentecostal ministers and their families will arrive in Alexandria next week for a for three nights and two days ``of inspiration, restoration, teaching, and direction.''
Online service links seniors to help (2007-01-08)
A new online service that targets seniors affected by the 2005 hurricanes is aimed at helping them identify financial benefits for which they may not know they qualify.
Study: GOP could win Louisiana House (2007-01-05)
A new study suggest that Republicans could come close to gaining political control of the traditionally Democratic state House after this fall's elections.
Ala. coach's salary raises questions (2007-01-05)
In a poor state that struggles to fund public schools, the four (m) million dollars a year offered to the University of Alabama's new football coach sent the wrong signal to some
WSJ: Toyota nears site selection; La. not on list (2007-01-05)
The Wall Street Journal says Toyota is nearing a decision on where to put a new auto manufacturing plant in the U-S, but Louisiana's mega-site was not mentioned.
Judge to consider approve Murphy Oil spill settlement (2007-01-04)
A federal judge today will consider approving a proposed settlement for a class-action suit over an oil spill at a Murphy Oil Corporation refinery during Hurricane Katrina.
UM band members to help build homes in New Orleans (2007-01-04)
About 250 members of the University of Maryland marching band are heading to New Orleans to help other musicians.
Officers' lawyers want charges dropped in post-Katrina shootings (2007-01-04)
Lawyers for two of the seven New Orleans police officers charged in a deadly bridge shooting after Hurricane Katrina want the charges dropped.
No more night horse rides in St. Martin Parish (2007-01-03)
Anyone caught riding a horse at night on a public road in Saint Martin Parish will have to pay a 250 dollar fine.
Tractor trailer wreck closes Eastbound I-10 from Delhi to Tallulah (2007-01-03)
An 18-mile stretch of eastbound Interstate 20 remains closed today, more than 12 hours after a westbound tractor-trailer crossed the median and slammed into an eastbound rig near the Madison Parish community of Waverly.
Amid applause, some protests, 7 Orleans police officers surrender (2007-01-03)
Seven New Orleans police officers charged with a deadly bridge shooting in Hurricane Katrina's aftermath waded through a roaring crowd of supporters on their way into jail.
Coroner, sheriff: Westlake mayor-elect shot himself (2007-01-03)
Officials say a three-term Westlake councilman shot himself days before he was to take office as its first black mayor.
Man arrested in Internet sting (2007-01-02)
A Saint Landry Parish man has been arrested in Allen Parish by law-enforcement officials for using the Internet to solicit sex from underage girls.
Jackson Co. to start hearings on post-Katrina neglected land (2007-01-02)
Flooding from Hurricane Katrina has left some land in Jackson County, Mississippi, in bad enough shape that supervisors may have to declare the property a menace to public health and safety.
New Orleans police to show support for 7 officers (2007-01-02)
The New Orleans police union is urging its members to support seven fellow police officers charged in deadly shootings during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina
Study: Louisiana slipping very slowly into the Gulf of Mexico (2007-01-02)
A new report says coastal Louisiana isn't just sinking -- it's sliding ever so slowly into the Gulf of Mexico.