A months-long investigation into drug activity tied to Mexican cartels has resulted in 742 arrests statewide. Jeff Palermo has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Louisiana’s film industry is seeing an uptick in activity. Andre Champagne reports that after a couple of slow years, movie production is picking back up…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

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Authorities have announced the arrest of 742 suspected gang members and drug dealers across Louisiana as part of an effort to crackdown on drugs that enter Louisiana that are tied to Mexican cartels. State Police Superintendent Robert Hodges says this announcement should serve as a strong message to those involved in gang activity or violent crime…

Cut 3 (06) “…you to justice” 

Nearly five-hundred of the arrests occurred in the Alexandria and Shreveport areas, 369 were in the Alexandria area. Rapides Parish Sheriff Mark Wood says illegal drugs are constantly moving through central Louisiana because of I-49…

Cut 4 (14) “…like a hub.”

The U.S. Attorney in the Western District of Louisiana, Zachary Keller, it will be his office that prosecutes many of these cases. He highlighted one of the cases out of Shreveport…

Cut 5 (14) “…mandatory minimum.”

The crackdown began in October and led to the recovery of 176 firearms statewide, more than 15 kilograms of fentanyl, more than two-thousand fentanyl pills, 44 kilograms of meth and 20 kilograms of cocaine.

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Governor Landry has sent President Trump a letter, formally requesting a major disaster declaration for nine parishes in northeast Louisiana following the winter storm, and the state’s entire congressional delegation is urging him to approve it. Landry notes that the state has already incurred more than 11-million dollars in costs related to the storm, meeting the threshold for a disaster declaration. Senator Bill Cassidy says with such a declaration, FEMA can help those affected with some much-needed financial assistance.

Cut 6 (06) “…emergency hotel stays.”

Cassidy notes that with people busy putting their lives back together, the last thing on their minds is filing their tax returns.

Cut 7 (10) “…in on time.”

Cassidy says that tax relief would not only apply to individuals, but also to small business owners.

Cut 8 (09) “…filing their taxes.”

The nine parishes Landry’s request covers are Bienville, De Soto, East Carroll, Franklin, Morehouse, Ouachita, Richland, Tensas, and West Carroll.

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It’s been a strong start to the year for Hollywood South, as there are six film productions either shooting or in preparation in the state. Jason Waggenspack, the president of Film Louisiana and the CEO of The Ranch Film Studios, says two of the film productions are feature films.

Cut 9 (15)  “…Netflix.”

The Netflix produced movie is called “A Christmas Kind of Love,” and it’s utilizing Second Line Stages in the Lower Garden District of New Orleans.

The Netflix produced movie is called “A Christmas Kind of Love” and it’s utilizing Second Line Stages in the Lower Garden District of New Orleans. Waggenspack expects Hollywood South activity will remain strong through the year…

Cut 10 (10) “…U-S.”

Waggenspack says movie production in Louisiana and the United States was slower than normal the last two seasons. He says the writers and actors strikes in 2023 resulted in more movie production in Canada and Europe, but but film production is now coming back to the U-S…

Cut 11 (10) “…in the United States ”

During the Super Bowl last night, many fans had one eye on the game and one eye on their phones doing Google searches. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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A multi-parish drug trafficking investigation in central Louisiana leads to a 12-count indictment against 11 individuals that were allegedly involved in buying and selling large amounts of meth and cocaine. Jeff Palermo has the story..

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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While the Seattle Seahawks are celebrating a Super Bowl title today, the New England Patriots are taking pride in what they accomplished this season. They reached the big game one season after going 4-and-13, setting a new record for a Super Bowl team with the worst record in the season prior. Defensive tackle Milton Williams of La Tech, who won the Super Bowl last season with the Eagles, says the team came a long way in just one year.

Cut 3 (13) “…the coaches, everybody.”

One of those players Williams was alluding to was third year wide receiver Kayshon Boutte of LSU. While the New Iberia native’s numbers this year were similar to those of last year, he caught six touchdown passes this season, compared to three last season. Boutte says the Super Bowl loss stings.

Cut 4 (09) “…it do hurt.”

Boutte says he and the rest of the offense had no answers for the Seahawks’ stifling defense.

Cut 5 (07) “…up short today.”

While Boutte and fellow LSU Tiger Will Campbell are wondering what could have been, it’s a different story for their former Tigers teammate Anthony Bradford, as the Seahawks guard is celebrating a Super Bowl title.

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Thanks to modern technology, many fans had one eye on their TVs and one eye on their phones doing Google searches during the Super Bowl. Google Search and Trends Expert Jennifer Jones says while many fans during the game were searching for quarterbacks Drake Maye and Sam Darnold, as well as MVP Kenneth Walker the Third, there was someone else who was also dominating the searches.

Cut 6 (10) “…five field goals.”

Besides the game itself, one of the biggest conversation pieces is always the commercials, and this year is no different. Jones says a few stood out in Google searches during the game.

Cut 7 (08) “…top searched one.”

Of course, this year, the biggest show besides the game was the Bad Bunny show at halftime. Jones says while there were many memorable moments during Bad Bunny’s 13-minute performance, one stood out in particular among those on Google.

Cut 8 (11) “…the halftime show.”

Jones explains the couple, who has not been publicly identified as of yet, had invited Bad Bunny to attend their wedding, and Bad Bunny countered by inviting them to exchange their vows during his halftime show. The end result was the viral moment that has everyone talking.

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At a press conference in Leesville, federal officials announced a Lafayette grand jury returned a 12-count indictment against 11 individuals involved in an alleged multi-parish drug trafficking organization. Assistant US Attorney LaDonte Murphy says the suspects are accused of possessing or conspiring to possess large amounts of meth and cocaine with an intent to distribute…

Cut 9 (13)  “…into our markets.”

Authorities say the eleven people indicted have been arrested and taken into custody. Most of the suspects are from Vernon Parish, two of the alleged traffickers are from Sabine Parish. Murphy says the drugs originated in Mexico and were trafficked across the border…

Cut 10 (14) “…central Louisiana.”

FBI agent Jonathan Tapp says one of the search warrants they executed resulted in law enforcement recovering a large amount of cocaine and fentanyl…

Cut 11 (13) “…gold bars.”

Louisiana residents can learn what makes each parish unique in a new original travel series that debuts tonight on L-P-B. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Last year, the legislature passed a law requiring special education classrooms to be equipped with cameras. As of the beginning of this month, that law is now in effect. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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When the Mardi Gras parades are over, the horses will once again be put up for adoption. Jeanne Burns reports.

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Jeanne Burns.”

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Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple says his department is working to establish a benchmark range on the discount a homeowner should receive on their property insurance for having a fortified roof. Temple says these benchmarks are being thoughtfully developed to help consumers receive the discounts they deserve for fortifying their homes…

Cut 4 (07) “…mandatory discount.”

Temple says this Department of Insurance regulation would require Louisiana insurance companies to either meet the minimum benchmark, which could be as much as 20-percent, or provide actuarial justification for why the company’s discount does not mee the benchmark.

Cut 5 (11) “…our state.”

The Department of Insurance says it will provide further information soon on when the fortified roof benchmark discounts will go into effect. Temple says if you have a fortified roof and if you believe your homeowners insurance premium should be lower, shop around

Cut 6 (07) “…say a lot.”

Louisiana is the fastest growing state for Fortified roofs in America. To date, over 11-thousand Fortified roofs have been installed, including more than 41-hundred through the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program.

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Every parish in Louisiana will be showcased in a new travel series that debuts tonight at 8 PM on Louisiana Public Broadcasting. Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser says the L-A 64 series will take viewers off the beaten path to experience local traditions and all things make each community distinctive…

Cut 7 (11) “…in each parish.”

The first episode features Vermilion Parish and Nungesser says the show has already set new records on LPB’s YouTube Channel. He says L-A 64 will air new episodes over five seasons to cover all 64 parishes…

Cut 8 (11) “…didn’t know about.”

Nungesser says every parish has a story worth telling. He hopes LA 64 inspires both visitors and residents to take a staycation or travel across the state to experience how communities are preserving, celebrating and sharing Louisiana’s rich heritage…

Cut 9 (11)  “…each parish”

Mississippi Public Broadcasting, Alabama Public Television and Arkansas P-B-S plan to air the television series this summer.

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As of the beginning of this month, all public and charter school special education classrooms in Louisiana are required to have cameras installed inside them. That’s due to Act 479, which was signed into law last year. It was authored by Livingston Representative Shane Mack, who says nearly all special education classrooms got them installed in time. 

Cut 10 (05) “…getting it completed.”

Mack says the purpose of having cameras in special education classrooms is so that parents or guardians can get involved if there’s an incident in the classroom.

Cut 11 (11) “…in the classrooms.”

Mack says the law goes beyond merely installing cameras in the special needs classrooms.

Cut 12 (07) “…handle the situation.”

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When all the Mardi Gras parades are over, the horses will be put up for adoption. The Humane Society of Louisiana is once again implementing the Mardi Gras Horse Adoption Program. Executive Director Jeff Dorson says they launched the program to break the cycle of uncertainty.

Cut 13 (10)  “…sold for slaughter.”

Dorson says ever since the Humane Society launched the program in 2017, every horse that it has taken in has been adopted into permanent homes.

Cut 14 (10) “…be part of.”

Not everyone can adopt these horses – Dorson says there is an application process.

Cut 15 (09) “…a good fit.”

Some horses have already been adopted; Dorson says he hopes to have all of this year’s horses adopted by March 4th.

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It will be difficult for a freshman to crack the starting lineup at LSU, with so many veteran position players. But if there is a guy on this LSU baseball team who can do it, it is Mason Braun. Braun can play in the outfield or at first base. He has big league power and LSU  coach Jay Johnson likes his slow heartbeat in the batter’s box…

Cut 16 (23) “…for three years.” 

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An intriguing newcomer for Ragin Cajuns baseball is Donovan LaSalle from Lake Charles. LaSalle was a star baseball player at Barbe High School and signed with Oklahoma State out of high school. But he didn’t get regular playing time for the Cowboys. Coach Matt Deggs says LaSalle has big-time power and plans to have him in the line-up every game…

Cut 17 (15)  “…talent out.”

The Cajuns are picked to finish fifth in the Sun Belt this season. Deggs expects his team to be tough-minded this season…

Cut 18 (14)  “…come together.” 

The Ragin Cajuns open the season by hosting Missouri State.

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On a day Louisiana Tech men’s basketball retired the jersey number of Bulldogs legend Paul Millsap, La Tech ended Sam Houston’s seven-game winning streak by beating the Bearkats 87 to 78. The Bulldogs dominated the boards outrebounded Sam Houston 46-30. Kaden Cooper, playing in his first game since January 14^th, had 16 points and a career-high 18 rebounds. Coach Talvin Hester on Cooper’s big game…

Cut 19 (15) “…chose it.”

The win gives Tech a 6-6 record in Conference USA. The Bulldogs are on the road this week as they visit Missouri State on Thursday night and F-I-U on Saturday. Sir Issac Herron had a career-high 18 points in the win over Sam Houstoin and says the toughness they played with against the Bearkcats, they need to bring on the road…

Cut 20 (15) “…of itself.”

A groundbreaking ceremony takes place tomorrow in Ascension Parish for the construction of the River Parishes Community College Donaldsonville campus. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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President Trump makes another endorsement, and one analyst says this one’s a jaw-dropper. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Tomorrow afternoon officials will break ground on the new River Parishes Community College Donaldsonville campus. Louisiana Community and Technical College System president Richard Nelson says this facility will train workers for the Hyundai Steel mill that will be built over the next few years on the Westbank of the Mississippi River in Donaldsonville….

Cut 3 (04) “…advanced manufacturing.”

Construction on the Hyundai Steel Mill is expected to be completed by 2029. It will employ 13-hundred workers with an average salary of 95-thousand dollars a year.

Nelson says the RPCC Donaldsonville campus will expand technical training opportunities, strengthen the regional talent pipeline and support future workforce needs of industry partners in the River Parishes…

Cut 4 (06) “…these jobs.”

Nelson says construction of the RPCC Donaldsonville campus will cost the state 30-million dollars…

Cut 5 (10) “…game changer.”

Hyundai  is making a nearly six-billion dollar investment in the construction of this steel mill in Ascension Parish

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President Trump has endorsed State Senator Blake Miguez in the District Five U.S. House race, just one day after Miguez announced his withdrawal from the U.S. Senate race to run for the House. ULM political science professor Joshua Stockley says when he heard that, his jaw dropped to the ground.

Cut 6 (09) “…crowded Republican field.”

Stockley says Trump’s endorsement of Miguez will almost certainly make that crowded field significantly less so.

Cut 7 (07) “…to some degree.”

Miguez lives in New Iberia, which is quite a distance from the Fifth District boundary. By law, candidates do not have to live in the district they run in; they just need to live in the state. Still, Stockley says it’s in their best interest if they do.

Cut 8 (10) “…in that district?”

Other Republicans who have confirmed their intention to enter the race include state senators Stewart Cathey of Monroe and Rick Edmonds of Baton Rouge, Baton Rouge State Representative Dixon McMakin and Board of Regents Chair Misti Cordell of Monroe. Religious scholar Larry Foy, who has never held elected office, announced his candidacy as a Democrat before Julia Letlow launched her Senate run, abandoning her House re-election bid.

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The city of Monroe, which has debris all over the place from the ice storm, is waiting to see if the disaster will be classified as Category A Emergency Work. This designation would mean Monroe and other communities will be reimbursed by the federal government at a higher rate for debris removal. Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis is confident this disaster will receive the Category A designation…

Cut 9 (11)  “…designation.”

Ellis estimates the cost of debris removal for Monroe is 15-million dollars.

The ice storm knocked out power to more than 45-thousand customers in Ouachita Parish. Today there are still hundreds without power. Ellis says once the power is fully restored, they will begin talking with utility providers about a more resilient power grid…

Cut 10 (12) “…start there.”

Despite the lengthy power outages, the cleanup and the cold weather last week, Ellis says the people of Monroe have kept a positive attitude….

Cut 11 (09) “…spirits are up.”

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LSU’s football roster has undergone a massive turnover. 38 football players from the 2025 football team entered the transfer portal and coach Lane Kiffin says after a 7-6 season, the personnel needed to change.

Cut 12 (14) “…needed to be changes.”

When it comes to recruiting, Kiffin doesn’t like to take no for an answer. When top transfers Sam Leavitt and Jordan Seaton left Baton Rouge without committing, Kiffin hopped on a plane in an effort to secure a pledge from both. Kiffin says he’s willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done.

Cut 13 (13) “…how I work.”

With northeast Louisiana thawing out from the ice storm, the daunting recovery task is getting underway in earnest. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Lane Kiffin speaks! Andre Champagne was at Kiffin’s first press conference since his introductory news conference that was held two months ago.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

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Legendary Saints quarterback Drew Brees is expected to be announced tonight as a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026. Jeff Palermo has more.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Certain Delta Utilities customers who are struggling to pay their natural gas bills can now get some much-needed assistance. Sarah McLaughlin Porteous (PORT-ee-uhs) with Delta Utilities says the company has just launched an initiative called DU Cares.

Cut 4 (07) “…program for us.”

There are eligibility requirements, including income relative to household size, and customers facing unexpected financial hardship need to fill out an application either online or in person. Porteous says the assistance is meant to be limited in nature. (People can get up to 250 dollars one time in a 12-month period.)

Cut 5 (04) “…12-month period.”

Porteous says the response so far has been very encouraging.

Cut 6 (09) “…than 300 applications.”

Delta Utilities has committed up to 200-thousand dollars to fund the program. Once all the money is allocated, the program will be temporarily paused until additional funding is available.

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Northeast Louisiana is thawing out from last week’s ice storm. Now, the daunting task of recovery is getting underway. In Monroe, Mayor Friday Ellis says the destruction rivals that caused by Hurricane Laura in 2020.

Cut 7 (07) “…to the ground.”

Mayor Ellis says when you drive around Monroe, the city looks like a war zone.

Cut 8 (09) “…like hurricane cleanup.”

The damage is not just limited to what you can see outside. With many losing power for days on end, they were left with refrigerators full of spoiled food. Ellis says that’s been keeping the local food bank very busy. 

Cut 9 (08)  “…in spoiled food.”

Ellis says the damage is so widespread, it will cost about 15-million dollars just in debris removal.

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Lane Kiffin spoke to the media yesterday for the first time since being hired as LSU’s head football coach. One of the first things Kiffin did in Baton Rouge was to sign the two best high school players in the state, Lamar Brown and Richard Anderson. Kiffin says even though he gets a lot of credit for keeping Brown and Anderson in the boot, the program recruits itself.

Cut 10 (15) “…knew it was LSU.”

Kiffin brought in quarterbacks Sam Leavitt of Arizona State, Husan (HOO-sahn) Longstreet of USC and Landen Clark of Elon to play for the Tigers. Kiffin says he’s most proud of the staff’s ability to build one of the best quarterback rooms in the country through the portal.

Cut 11 (13) “…about their competitiveness.”

Kiffin gave an update on Leavitt’s foot injury, saying he will be able to throw in spring practice but will miss team drills.

Over the past couple of weeks, Kiffin and his staff traveled across the country to get a head start on recruiting the Class of 2027. Kiffin says his trips in Louisiana have stood out.

Cut 12 (14) “…it’s awesome.”

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Drew Brees is a Super Bowl champion, a two-time NFL Offensive Player of the Year, a five-time All-Pro selection, and he’s in the Saints Ring of Honor. Later today, you will likely be able to call him a Hall of Famer. Tonight, the NFL announces the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026, and Brees is expected to be “in that number.” Luke Johnson covers the Saints for the Advocate and says it would be shocking if Brees is not a first ballot hall of famer.

Cut 13 (05)  “…Drew Brees’ name.”

Brees played in the NFL for 20 seasons and threw for 80-thousand yards and 571 touchdowns. Only Tom Brady threw for more yards and touchdowns. Brees holds the record for highest career completion percentage. Johnson says while the numbers are impressive, the impact Brees had on the Saints franchise is immeasurable.

Cut 14 (09) “…run of success.”

The Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2026 will be introduced during tonight’s NFL Honors program. Also tonight, we will find out if Saints linebacker Demario Davis will be awarded the NFL Man of the Year Award. Johnson says quarterback Tyler Shough is also up for Offensive Rookie of the Year, which is impressive when you considered he only started half the season.

Cut 15 (09) “…these overwhelming stats.”

NFL Honors will air on NBC at 8 p.m. Central Time.

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Big game in women’s college basketball tonight as fifth-ranked LSU visits fourth-ranked Texas. It’s a rematch of the game played in the PMAC on January 11th, won by LSU 70 to 65. The Longhorns have one of the best defenses in the country, allowing only 55 points per game. Cory Diaz covers LSU women’s hoops for the USA Today Network. Diaz says handling Texas’ pressure will be a key for LSU tonight…

Cut 16 (09) “…of this game.”

Diaz also expects Texas coach Vic Schaefer to instruct his team to get the ball to six-foot-six center Kyla Oldacare.

Cut 17 (14)  “…in this game.”

Tip off is at 8 PM.

The dates for the next two Sugar Bowls have been announced. Andrew Greenstein reports the latter one will be followed by an even bigger game.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Four state lawmakers are looking to make the jump to Congress. Jeff Palermo has more on the race to replace Julia Letlow in Louisiana’s 5^th Congressional district…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The next Sugar Bowl will be the latest one in its 90-plus-year history. Because it’s a College Football Playoff Semifinal, it will take place Friday, January 15th, 2027. Sugar Bowl CEO Jeff Hundley says while it breaks tradition, it’s for the best.

Cut 3 (09) “…be in it.”

Throughout its history, the Sugar Bowl knew the participating teams at the end of the regular season – with the last two years knowing one team and two possible opponents. However, for the upcoming season, the participating teams will not be known until after New Year’s Day. Hundley says that in no way will diminish the turnout or the excitement leading up to the game.

Cut 4 (09) “…excitement around them.”

For the 2027 season, the Sugar Bowl reverts back to a quarterfinal matchup, and that will be played New Year’s Eve, which falls on a Friday. Hundley says the College Football Playoff has to work around the NFL when scheduling its games.

Cut 5 (10) “…to work with.”

Weeks later, on Monday, January 24th, 2028, the Sugar Bowl Committee will help host the College Football Playoff National Championship Game in the Superdome. Hundley points out that the last four times that the Superdome hosted the college football national title game, LSU was playing in it, with the Tigers winning three of them.

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The race for the district 5 U.S. House seat that Letlow gave up to run for U.S. Senate is getting crowded. Blake Miguez dropped out of the senate race to seek the District 5 House seat. State Senators Steward Cathey of Monroe and Rick Edmonds of Baton Rouge, state Representative Dixon Wallace McMakin of Baton Rouge, and Board of Regents Chair Misti Cordell of Monroe all confirmed their commitment to run. With qualifying just over a week away, USA Today Network’s Greg Hilburn called it a wild race.

Cut 6 (09) “…musical chairs.”

The fact that Miguez does not live in District 5 isn’t keeping him from seeking office to represent it and he says his focus is delivering wins for all of District 5. Hilburn says, it’s legal and it’s been done before but he says, Miguez’s opponents aren’t holding back.

Cut 7 (10) “…Senator Miguez.”

Qualifying for the May 16^th primary begins next week, February 11^th through 13^th. Hilburn says that leaves almost no time for campaigning or campaign fundraising.

Cut 8 (13) “…these campaigns.”

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Using images of children to create A-I deepfake images of a sexual nature would be illegal if a state lawmaker has his way. Representative Michael Bayham has filed a bill that would classify deepfake content involving children as child sex abuse material if it’s sexually explicit in nature.

Cut 9 (08)  “…abused and exploited.”

The Republican from St. Bernard Parish says because it’s such a new technology, A-I is currently not addressed in Louisiana statutes, and he’s looking to close that loophole to protect the most vulnerable.

Cut 10 (12) “…particularly our children.”

Bayham says while some may have concerns that regulating A-I could stifle free speech, this is not what his bill is all about.

Cut 11 (06) “…images of children.”

State senator Blake Miguez trades in one campaign for another. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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By the end of the week, 17 ponds across the state will be stocked with Rainbow Trout. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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According to the American Lung Association’s latest annual State of Tobacco Control report, Louisiana either has room for improvement or is failing, depending on the metric. It gives Louisiana Fs in tobacco prevention and cessation funding, tobacco taxes and flavored tobacco products. Director of Advocacy Eric Weinzettle says that may explain Louisiana’s relatively high rate of lung cancer.

Cut 3 (08) “…adult smoking rate.”

The report gives Louisiana Cs in smokefree air and access to cessation services. Weinzettle says low dose CT lung cancer screening tests are covered under insurance for those who are considered to be high-risk for lung cancer.

Cut 4 (12) “…last 15 years.”

Weinzettle says based on the low number of those people who get those scans, the state needs to do a much better job in informing them that it’s covered by insurance.

Cut 5 (06) “…low-dose CT scans.”

The American Lung Association is calling on the state to, among other things, increase tobacco prevention and quit tobacco funding to compensate for any uncertainty at the federal level and to strengthen the existing smoke-free law to include bars and casinos.

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A campaign detour for Blake Miguez just before the start of qualifying. The state senator from New Iberia announced on social media today that he’s ending his run for U.S. Senate and is instead running for U.S. House in the fifth district – the seat being vacated by Julia Letlow. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says after President Trump endorsed Letlow last month, Miguez saw the writing on the wall.

Cut 6 (07) “…for her seat.”

Like the race for U.S. Senate, Miguez will face a crowded field in that congressional race as well, with Rick Edmonds, Misti Cordell and Dixon McMakin officially announcing runs for that seat, with several more expected to also enter. Pinsonat says this underscores how weird of an election cycle this has been for Louisiana. 

Cut 7 (10) “…doing what tomorrow.”

Miguez is the second candidate to drop out of the race for the Republican Senate nomination in the wake of Trump’s endorsement, following Julie Emerson’s withdrawal, and Pinsonat says he doubts Miguez will be the last.

Cut 8 (11) “…the president’s lead.”

What’s notable is that Miguez doesn’t even live in the fifth district. Pinsonat says when it comes to the U.S. House, that doesn’t matter – the only thing that matters is that the candidate lives in the state.

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LDWF plans to complete this week the stocking of adult-size Rainbow Trout at 17 community ponds across the state. Joshua Porter, who is a fisheries outreach biologist, says they stock ponds with Rainbow Trout, where anglers can fish along the bank…

Cut 9 (09)  “…time of the year.”

LDWF stocks Rainbow Trout during the winter months when water temperatures are cool enough for them to thrive. Porter says Rainbow Trout are native to rivers and lakes of western North America, their popularity as a sport fish has led to stocking programs across the country…

Cut 10 (06) “…from anglers.”

Porter says anglers are encouraged to keep their catch, as the trout are meant to be harvested before temperatures begin to rise…

Cut 11 (11) “…reproduce.”

Go to LDWF’s Get out and Fish Facebook page for more information and you can also find this information on LDWF’s main website, just search for Get Out and Fish.

Entergy continues making progress in restoring power in Northeast Louisiana. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Louisiana’s bond with France dates to the 17^th century, so it’s fitting the Saints will host a “home game” in Paris next season. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Entergy crews made significant progress in northeast Louisiana over the weekend. Entergy says it has now restored power to 90-percent of customers affected by last week’s ice storm, accounting for more than 118-thousand customers. Nyka (NIGH-kah) Scott, the vice president of customer service at Entergy, says this is just one component to the recovery process.

Cut 3 (12) “…they’re fully recovered.”

Scott there’s widespread damage to the electricity grid, including almost one-thousand utility poles. She says more than 500 miles of wire and 210 transformers need to be repaired or replaced.

Scott says as crews restore power to the last remaining customers still in the dark, they’re still running into vegetation issues, which is making the process much, much longer.

Cut 4 (09) “…or fourth time.”

Scott says many of the customers still without power are in areas which are not easily accessible.

Cut 5 (06) “…getting bogged down.”

Scott says she expects the last customer to be restored by Wednesday.

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A 15-year-old involved in Saturday’s shooting at a Mardi Gras parade in East Feliciana Parish will be charged as an adult. That’s according to district attorney Sam D’Aquilla. Sheriff Jeff Travis says Malik Liggins is one of four people to be arrested and more arrests are likely…

Cut 6 (10) “…other stuff.”

Six people were injured in the shooting including Liggins. Travis says no one was killed, but lives have been changed…

Cut 7 (12) “…we can.”

Liggins is facing an attempted murder charge to go along with the reckless discharge of a firearm and obstruction charges. Travis says authorities have also arrested 25-year-old Phillip Williams. He’s one of four people facing charges in connection with the shooting in Clinton that Travis says was gang-related…

Cut 8 (14) “..horrified.”

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Five people are arrested following a joint investigation into child exploitation by State Police, the Coving Police Department and the FBI. Trooper Marc Gremillion says State Police arrested two men – 26-year-old Kevin Pierre of Folsom and 44-year-old Mayfield Lee of Metairie.

Cut 9 (07)  “…St. Tammany Parish.”

The other three were arrested by the Covington Police Department. Trooper Gremillion says Pierre and Folsom are facing identical charges.

Cut 10 (07) “…with a juvenile.”

Gremillion says these arrests underscore the fact that keeping kids safe on the internet is a never-ending process.

Cut 11 (08) “…of Louisiana children.”

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The Saints announce they will play in the first ever NFL regular season game in France. Saints Owner Gayle Benson says the game in Paris will be significant as there is a strong cultural connection between Louisiana and France that dates back to the 17^th century. WWL Radio Saints analyst Mike Detilllier…

Cut 12 (07) “…and France.”

In 2023, the NFL awarded the Saints international marketing rights in France, making the Saints the first and only team to hold those rights in France. Last summer, a contingent of SAints team officials, led by Mrs Benson, visited France in an effort to strength the connection between the team and its French fans. Detillier expects a lot of the Saints fans will make the trip overseas…

Cut 13 (07) “…heritage.”

Nothing official from the Saints, but a French outlet reports the game will be played on October 26^th against the Browns. With the game France that means the Saints will play eight regular season games in the Dome next season, instead of nine. The Saints announce this will mean a 10-percent reduction in ticket prices for season ticket holders.

The clock is ticking towards another partial government shutdown. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Some people in northeast Louisiana may have to wait a couple more days to get power restored. Jeff Palermo reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Could we be headed for another government shutdown? That could happen – more specifically a partial shutdown – if the Senate fails to give its approval to a House-passed funding package by midnight tomorrow night. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says the six pending bills were cruising towards passage – but then, something happened last weekend.

Cut 3 (08) “…that want changes.”

Democrats are saying they’ll pass the budgets for the other five departments, but they want to pull Homeland Security from the package, tying its funding approval to Republicans agreeing to a series of conditions, including ending roving patrols and establishing a universal code of conduct. Hogan says whereas Republicans might not have previously acquiesced to those demands, this time they might.

Cut 4 (11) “…in this case.”

Hogan says even if there is a partial government shutdown, don’t expect the ICE and Border Patrol raids to end at least for the time being – Homeland Security has enough money to keep them going for now.

Cut 5 (08) “…tremendous immediate impact.”

Hogan points out that if Democrats are successful in separating Homeland Security from the six-bill package, the funding bill would have to go back to the House for its approval, and the House is in recess for the rest of the week.

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Some people in northeast Louisiana have been waiting a long time to get their power restored. Now, Entergy says they may have to wait a little longer. It says it may be as late as Saturday before it can restore power to everyone. Nyka (NIGH-kah) Scott, the vice president of customer service for Entergy, says that’s because the task was a lot more daunting than originally anticipated.

Cut 6 (09) “…than we thought.”

Scott says restoring power in winter conditions is very challenging; for example, yesterday, workers found live powerlines underneath banks of ice. She says they don’t have those types of challenges following summer storms.

Cut 7 (08) “…it’s warm weather.”

Scott says while crews have made progress, there is a ways to go, and they’re working overtime to get everyone’s lights back on.

She says Entergy has opened information centers to help customers who are dealing with a prolonged outage.

Cut 8 (12) “…their areas.”

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A teenage boy is arrested in connection with the killing of an elderly woman inside her Morehouse Parish apartment. On Tuesday evening, 73-year-old Ruby Lee Peterson was found stabbed to death inside her apartment in Bastrop. Chief Deputy James Mardis with the Morehouse Parish Sheriff’s Office says the following day, deputies arrested 17-year-old Amir Dowles.

Cut 9 (06)  “…with the investigation.”

Mardis says deputies quickly zeroed in on Dowles as their suspect.

Cut 10 (05) “…with a suspect.”

Mardis says the only connection that investigators have established at this time between Dowles and Peterson is that they lived in the same apartment complex, the Eden Apartments.

Cut 11 (06) “…knew him, yes.”

For those of you in North Louisiana, today is another day for you to stay off the roads. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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When disaster strikes Louisiana or nearby states, the United Cajun Navy usually comes to the rescue – and this time is no exception. Andre Champagne reports.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

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For those of you in North Louisiana, DOTD is urging you to stay off the roads once again today, if you possibly can. Spokeswoman Erin Buchanan says that especially includes I-20.

Cut 3 (13) “…to clear it.”

Buchanan says those stalled 18-wheelers on I-20 are making the roadway nearly impassable, in some cases stranding people in frigid conditions for hours.

Cut 4 (11) “…out of there.”

Buchanan says they’re trying to help those stranded people as best as they can.

Cut 5 (09) “…out there working.”

Buchanan says temperatures should start to warm up today to the point that the ice should start to melt and traffic can start moving again. But in the meantime, DOTD has its crews out on roadways clearing the ice as much as possible.

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When Mother Nature wreaks havoc on Louisiana and nearby states, the United Cajun Navy is on the scene helping people affected – and this ice storm is no different. Founder and president Todd Terrell says he and his crew are delivering supplies to shelters throughout north Louisiana and north Mississippi – not just essentials to stay warm, but also everyday essentials for the whole family.

Cut 6 (09) “…what they need.”

Terrell says when essential personnel have no way to get to and from their respective facilities, his volunteers are ready to help with their four-wheel-drive vehicles.

Cut 7 (10) “…taken care of.”

Terrell says even if you can’t volunteer with your own four-wheel-drive vehicle, you can help the United Cajun Navy’s mission by making a donation.

Cut 8 (10) “…scarves and stuff.”

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The state health department has announced five additional deaths because of the winter storm, bringing the total number to eight. The cause of death for five of the victims is hypothermia. L-D-H also says an elderly person in DeSoto Parish died from carbon monoxide poisoning. Also in DeSoto Parish, a 79-year-old woman died after her oxygen concentrator failed as a result of no power. And a Texas man also died while traveling on icy roads in Mansfield. Governor Jeff Landry wants residents in north Louisiana to do these two things…

Cut 9 (09)  “…supplemental heat.”

Landry spoke in Monroe today after taking a tour of some of the destruction the ice storm has caused in Ouachita Parish. Monroe Mayor Friday Ellis says once the ice melts away, the clean-up will be extensive…

Cut 10 (12) “…devastation.”

Getting the power back on is a major priority. Landry says the number of linemen and crews have doubled as they’ve been able to shift personnel from south to north Louisiana. Landry says he’s hopeful 90-percent of customers will have power restored by Thursday

Cut 11 (12) “…cold air.”

There are still more than 90-thousand utility customers without power. Nearly half of the outages are in Ouachita Parish. Another round of extremely cold air will arrive this weekend.

If you live in an area without power, State Police Superintendent, Colonel Robert Hodges, says check on your neighbors, especially if they are elderly…

Cut 12 (13) “…assistance.”