Latest Mississippi River Delta News: Dec. 21, 2015

Louisiana Birdwatchers Count Birds, Along with Blessings, During Holiday Season
Features Erik Johnson, National Audubon Society 
By Amy Wold, The Advocate, Dec. 19, 2015. “Learn to watch birds with your eyes and ears and not your binoculars,” Johnson offered as a good tip for beginners. Observing the behavior of different bird species is part of the enjoyment of bird watching, he said.” (Read more).

Report Highlights Cost of Continued Land Loss
By Tegan Wendland, WWNO, Dec. 19, 2015. “A new state study says land loss could cost Louisiana a lot of money if nothing is done. The Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority commissioned the study, which was done by LSU and the RAND Corporation.” (Read more).

Louisiana Politicians Eye ‘Unlocking’ Funds to Help Deal with Budget Crisis, But Some Say That Won’t Go Far
By Mark Ballard, The Advocate, Dec. 17, 2015. “For one thing, about $2.15 billion in 40 dedicated funds is protected in the state constitution. They cover a wide variety of programs, such as coastal restoration, the TOPS college tuition scholarships and parish roads. Unlocking constitutional dedications would require a two-thirds vote of both chambers of the Legislature, followed by a majority of the state’s voters in the next election, which is months away.” (Read more).

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Louisiana Faces Severe Fiscal Problems, Governor-Elect John Bel Edwards Tells Business Leaders
By Jeff Adelson, The Advocate, Dec. 18, 2015. “In a speech dense with both bleak budget figures and ambitious goals for funding transportation and higher education, Edwards told business leaders gathered at the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce’s annual luncheon that while hard choices are coming, the payoff would be worth it.” (Read more).

Gov.-elect John Bel Edwards Reveals Inauguration Day Plans
By Elizabeth Crisp, The Advocate, Dec. 18, 2015. “The inauguration ceremony is slated to take place on the Capitol steps at 11:30 a.m. and is open to the public. Edwards’ oath of office will be administered by Louisiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Bernette J. Johnson, and musician Mickey Mangun, of the Pentecostals of Alexandria, will perform.” (Read more).