2:30 LRN Newscast

As you get your Christmas shopping underway for this year, don’t forget about your small businesses. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (27) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

On Thanksgiving Day, Louisiana State Police pursued a vehicle linked to theft on I-10 near Iowa, Louisiana. The driver, 27-year-old Shanan McCoy Jr. fled after striking a police vehicle but was arrested. A search revealed stolen electronics and burglary tools. McCoy faces multiple charges, and investigations to identify his passengers continue. LSP is asking anyone with information related to the case to contact LSP.

This holiday season brings unique challenges for shoppers and retailers. Despite inflation and economic uncertainties, the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Deloitte predict holiday spending increases of 3 percent and 8 percent, compared to last year. LSU marketing professor Dan Rice emphasizes trends shaping 2024’s holiday shopping, including online purchasing growth, early-season sales, and the gift of visiting loved ones.

Cut 4 (11) “…a consumer good.”

Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain encourages residents to consider getting a Louisiana-grown live Christmas tree this holiday season. Strain says you can find the names and locations of local Christmas tree farms around the state online…

Cut 13 (08)  “…association website”