| By DREW BROACH | Staff writer |
Welcome to Carnival's final weekend. Here are some of our top stories. In his first budget proposal, Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry seeks money for State Police to fight crime in New Orleans and another temporary pay boost for public school teachers. But his administration refuses federal cash to help feed poor families. When the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority awarded a service contract to a Metairie company, it was supposed to be worth $250,000. But the deal ballooned to $1.3 million, and now the RTA and federal law enforcement agencies are investigating why. See our photos from Krewe of Hermes parade, along with all our Mardi Gras season coverage. Can't make it to New Orleans or out to Saturday’s parades? Watch the Uptown krewes roll on the NOLA.com Parade Cam. Check out all the latest news, sports and entertainment coverage from The Times-Picayune. - Drew. | 