The 2020Teacher of the year at Cypress Cove Elementary in Sulfur has been arrested in Texas for possessing child pornography.  Kenneth Espree, who most recently worked as a music teacher in Klein, Texas, taught music in the Calcasieu Parish School system from 2016 to 2020.  Espree resigned after Texas deputies found child pornography on his computer this fall, leading to his arrest and incarceration on a $200,000 bond.

For the 7^th year in a row, Louisiana has seen economic growth and Secretary of Louisiana Economic Development, Don Pierson says new opportunities in new fields at higher paying positions are increasing in Louisiana and that will mean more growth for the state…

Cut 13 (12) “…the nation.”

There’s a potential for some severe weather Saturday in Louisiana. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

The Louisiana Fortified Roof Grant Program has seen the first 13 upgraded roofs completed. Homeowner Alicia Craige is among one of the first to have hers installed. After getting the green light to move forward, Craige says she selected a contractor and her roof was up. She says the entire process was seamless and she’s pleased with the results.

Cut 5 (08) “ …them enough.”  

For the 7^th year in a row, Louisiana has seen economic growth. Private companies invested 25 Billion Dollars in the Bayou State in 2023. Louisiana Economic Development, Don Pierson…

Cut 12 (09)  “…in Louisiana.”  

Pierson says investments are coming from both established giants like Exxon Mobile and companies like a solar panel company bringing over 700 jobs.

And we’re about to see a significant mercury drop, highs Friday and Saturday will be in the 70s. But State Climatologist Barry Keim says after the rain moves through get ready for a much colder Sunday with highs in the 50s.

Cut 8 (08) “…of the state.” 

It’s a good time to check that your weather alert radio and smartphone apps are up to date so you can receive any severe weather notifications this weekend.

Thirteen Louisiana homes to get a fortified roof are complete under the Louisiana Fortified Roof Grant Program. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx” 

Prep Football wraps up tomorrow. Ruston will play for a state title for the second year in a row. Last year the Bearcats lost to Destrehan in the division one non-select title game, on Saturday night they’ll face Zachary. Ruston Coach Jerrod Baugh (baw)…

Cut 11 (11) “…state championship.”

We’re going to need sweaters and raincoats this weekend. A cold front is bringing rain and State Climatologist Barry Keim says, rain will be scattered across the state but with the increased probability of tornadic activity, you want to remain weather-aware. Rain totals shouldn’t be excessive, he says we could have up to an inch and a half of precipitation, and the heavier rain is more likely in northeast Louisiana.

Cut 7 (09) “…drought situation.” 

The first 13 homes to have a fortified roof installed through the Louisiana Fortified Roof Grant Program have been completed. Homeowner Alicia Craige is among one of the first to have her roof installed. To comply with insurance requirements, Craige says she needed to get her roof repaired immediately so she applied online.

Cut 4 (12) “…new roof.”

The Prep Classic finishes with three more games on Saturday. It starts at noon with St. Thomas More taking on Lafayette Christian in the division two select state title game. St. Charles Catholic goes after its third consecutive state title when they face Calvary Baptist at 3:30. Cougars Coach Wayne Stein credits the players for their consistent performance…

Cut 10 (04) “…blessed.”

Ruston will face Zachary Saturday night but first Tonight, Acadiana faces Catholic High in a battle of 5A powers. Yesterday, Oak Grove won its fourth state title in five years, while Southern Lab took home its second championship in three years.

A 15-year-old and his mother have been arrested for the murder of Kameran Bedsole in Iberia Parish last month. 40 year old Sabrina Washing was arrested Tuesday. Her 11-year-old daughter was arrested last month. Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Spokesperson Katherine Breaux

Cut 4 (12) “…$400,000.”

The murder of 36-year-old Kameran Bedsole took place at a residence in the 47 hundred block of Jasper Road in New Iberia.

Marsh fires in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes prompted road closures and even forced this morning. Trooper Ross Brennan says they don’t take closure lightly. They’re are trying to motorists safe. He urges drivers to be patient when low visibility remains a high probability in the area.

Cut 8 (09) “…this together.” 

“That Kid” Jayden is going to have to get a bigger trophy case as he’s just received another accolade. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

Cold weather and rain coming this weekend. State Climatologist Barry Keim says recent rains are beginning to make a difference in Louisiana’s drought conditions…

Cut 10 (10) “…percent of the state.”

At least 87% of Louisiana remains in extreme drought.

The Associated Press College Football Player of the Year is none other than that Kid Jayden. LSU’s Jayden Daniels receives that honor today and It’s a pretty safe bet that Daniels is taking home the Heisman on Saturday night. Tiger Rag Editor, Todd Horn says the latest odds are -1600…

Cut 13 (12) “…Saturday night.”

Along with the cold, much needed rain is coming to Louisiana this weekend. That’s Good news and recent rains have made a difference but along with the good news comes the bad. State Climatologist Barry Keim says, we’ve only improved in one drought category and at least 87% of Louisiana remains in extreme drought.

Cut 11 (10) “…across Louisiana”

40-year-old Sabrina Washington and her 15-year-old son have been arrested for murder in Iberia Parish. Washington’s 11-year-old daughter was arrested last month. Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Spokesperson Katherine Breaux says the murder of the 36-year-old Kameran Bedsole took place at a residence in New Iberia. Breaux says the sheriff’s office is not providing details on a motive but asks for the public to remain patient as the investigation is ongoing.

Cut 5 (11) “ …all involved.”  

Remote marsh fires in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes prompted road closures and even forced some schools to close for the day. Trooper Ross Brennan says LA Highway 182 and Highway 90 have reopened for now.

Cut 6 (08) “…at now.”

LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels is the Associated Press College Football Player of the Year. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne says the AP honor is merely a foreshadowing of the most prestigious award in college football the Heisman Trophy, “That Kid Jayden” is also a finalist for.

Cut 12 (13)  “…Joe Burrow.”  

Expect some more rain in this weekend. State Climatologist Barry Keim says the recent rains are beginning to make a difference in Louisiana’s drought conditions…

Cut 10 (11) “…percent of the state.”

A 15-year-old and his 40-year-old mother have been arrested for their involvement in the murder of 36-year-old Kameran Bedsole of Iberia Parish. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx” 

Remote marsh fires in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes prompted road closures and even forced this morning. Trooper Ross Brennan says they don’t take closure lightly. They’re are trying to motorists safe. He urges drivers to be patient when low visibility remains a high probability in the area.

Cut 8 (09) “…this together.” 

To check for the latest road conditions, you’re urged to visit 511LA-dot-org

Whether you like the cold or not, it’s coming and State Climatologist Barry Keim says, it’s bringing a little good news…

Cut 9 (10) “…best day.” 

Keim says most of the rain will be in North Louisiana but the whole state needs it.

Remote marsh fires in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes prompted road closures and even forced some schools to close for the day. Trooper Ross Brennan says LA Highway 182 and Highway 90 have reopened for now.

In October a combination of fog and smoke from the marsh fires caused a multiple-car pileup of more than 168 vehicles on Interstate 55 in southeast Louisiana and killed seven people.

Cut 7 (11) “…or a map.” 

40-year-old Sabrina Washington and her 15-year-old son have been arrested for their connection to the murder of Kameran Bedsole in Iberia Parish last month. Her 11-year-old daughter is already in custody. Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Spokesperson Katherine Breaux says 15 year old

was transported to the Jackson Parish Juvenile Detention Center from Houston where he was arrested. She says the mother of the two suspects was also arrested in Iberia Parish on Tuesday.

Cut 4 (09) “…two counts.”

Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy says Republicans are unified and will not approve a 110-billion dollar military aid package for Ukraine and Israel unless the legislation addresses southern border security. Democratic leadership in the Senate says the funding bill should not be tied to extreme immigration proposals. But Cassidy says the crisis at the U-S-Mexico border can no longer be ignored…

Cut 7 (09) “..southern border.” 

Newly appointed Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Revenue, Richard Nelson was the youngest gubernatorial candidate in the latest race Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat believes this appointment is a good fit.

Cut 11 (12) “…the governor.”

Jarrod Coniglio, who has more than three decades of experience with oversight of the state’s Medicaid program and Department of Revenue, has been named under-secretary of LDR.

An 11 year old girl was arrested and charged with murder in Iberville parish on November 28. On Tuesday her 15 year old brother was arrested by Houston Police and her mother, 40 year Sabrina Washington were also arrested. All three are charged with 1^st degree murder in the shooting death of Kameron Bedsole. Sheriff Tommy Romero says it’s extremely tragic for all involved and he asks for patience and prayers.

The deadline to choose a 2024 Medicare health plan or make changes to your current plan is tomorrow. For those still seeking coverage, Blue Cross Blue Shield Healthcare Economist Mike Bertaut says Louisianans 65 and older can choose Medicare Parts A, B, D, or a combination of the three.

Cut 3 (12) “…to go.”

Senator Bill Cassidy says Republicans cannot support a 111-billion dollar military aid package for Ukraine and Israel without policy changes that will reduce the number of illegal crossings across the southern border. Jeff Palermo has more..

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.” 

Choosing a Medicare plan can be difficult and overwhelming at times says Blue Cross Blue Shield Healthcare Economist Mike Bertaut, and with tomorrow being the deadline to choose a 2024 Medicare health plan or make changes to current plans, he says there are free services to help guide individuals to a plan that is best for them.

Cut 4 (12) “…you nothing.”

Newly appointed Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Revenue, Richard Nelson made a campaign promise while he was a candidate for governor in the most recent race. He promised to repeal the state income tax. Political Analyst Bernie Pinsonat says the popularity of no state income tax in nearby Texas and Florida, and a GOP super-majority in the legislature, plus Nelson’s appointment brings even more momentum for the initiative…

Cut 10 (10) “…the revenue.”

Two juveniles and their mother have now been arrested for the November 13^th murder of 36 year old Kameron Bedsole in Iberia Parish. The first arrest of an 11 year old girl came last week. On Tuesday Houston Police acting on a warrant from Iberia Parish, arrested a 15 year old boy. The mother of the two juveniles, 40 year old, Sabrina Washington, was also arrested on Tuesday. All 3 have been charged with 1^st degree murder. Washington was also charged with accessory after the fact. Sheriff Tommy Romero is asking the public for patience and prayers.

Retired Louisiana Supreme Court Justice E. Joseph Bleich has declared the November Caddo Parish sheriff’s run-off election void and ordered a new run-off. Bleich’s ruling in the Lawsuit filed by candidate, John Nickelson who lost to Henry Whitehorn by one vote states, “it was proven beyond any doubt that there were at least 11 illegal votes cast and counted” and it is “legally impossible to know what the true vote should have been.” Whitehorn’s team is expected to appeal they have has until 9:56 AM Friday.

Three separate house fires have claimed the lives of three people in 2 different Louisiana parishes in the last 2 days. The State Fire Marshall spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says they are investigating the 3, one in St. Tammany.

Cut 14 …accident there

For fire safety tips and information about the Fire Marshall’s Operation Save a Live program visit lasfm.org

The Louisiana Department of Transportation Spokesperson Erin Buchanan says crews are assembling a trestle bridge to be used during construction of the new Jimmie Davis Bridge connecting Bossier and Caddo Parishes. She says it’s a design-build project so larger parts of the development may not be seen for some time…

Cut 8 (08) “…great sign.” 

The entire project is expected to be completed in around five years.

LSU Pennington Biomedical Research Center has received a more than $13 million grant to help fight childhood obesity among minorities and those in rural communities. Associate Professor Amanda Staiano says the grant will allow them to find the best approach to deliver their 26-hour evidence-based obesity program.

Cut 3 (09) “…time period.”