News roundup: Mardi Gras brings in $16M for Shreveport-Bossier … Wal-Mart unveils strategy to speed up in-store shopping experience … US economy grew 1.9% in fourth quarter

Beads and booze: Though it doesn’t receive the attention that celebrations in New Orleans get, the Mardi Gras season in Shreveport and Bossier City is just as financially important to the northwest …