1:30 LRN Newscast

If you’re planning on ringing in the new year in the French Quarter, you can expect beefed up security, bolstered by the National Guard. Glade Bilby, the president of The French Quarter Citizens, says in light of what happened at the outset of this year, New Orleans has no other option but to take extra precautions to give visitors peace of mind.

Cut 6 (10) “…with security measures.”

Some of you may stay home and pop off fireworks. If you do, there are things you need to know to stay safe, prevent your house from going up in flames and prevent you from losing a finger and becoming the next spokesman for Hamburger Helper. Ken Pastorick with the Office of the State Fire Marshal says make sure you’re in an open area when shooting fireworks.

Cut 7 (05) “…these things off.”

And never put dry fireworks debris in garbage cans – embers can ignite and start a fire.

For a fifth consecutive year, Louisiana will have a float in the Tournament of Roses New Year’s Day parade in Pasadena, California. Jeff Palermo has the story

Cut 2 (35) “…Jeff Palermo.”

What were the most popular baby names throughout the state? According to the Louisiana Department of Health, the most popular boy’s name was Noah, and the most popular girl’s name was Amelia. Other names on the boys’ list include Liam, James and John; top girls’ names include Charlotte, Olivia and Emma.