A closed party primary bill is heading to Jeff Landry’s desk, but it’s not as expansive as the governor wanted. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Governor Jeff Landry’s plan to finance a new I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge calls for tolls but at a lower cost than what the Edwards Administration proposed. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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The state Legislature approved a bill that would result in a move to party primary elections for Congress, BESE, PSC and Louisiana Supreme Court starting in 2026. Statewide, legislative local elections would continue to use the jungle primary system. It’s not everything Governor Jeff Landry wanted. Democratic New Orleans Senator Royce Duplessis says voters did not ask for this change…

Cut 3 (07) “…are going to be frustrated.”

Despite Duplessis’ opposition, the Senate approved the bill on a 29 to 9 vote and the House voted 67-36 . New Iberia Senator Blake Miguez carried the bill for the governor on the Senate floor…

Cut 4 (10) “..a reality”

Elections for Louisiana Supreme Court, PSC and BESE would also move to party primaries in 2026 under this bill. And unaffiliated voters will be able to vote in the primaries.

Landry asked lawmakers to pass a bill that would only allow registered voters of a party to vote in their party primary. He also wanted closed party primaries for federal and state elections. Carencro Representative Julie Emerson is the author of the legislation…

Cut 5 (08) “…different voices here.” 

The proposal heads to the governor’s desk for his signature.

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Visitation for Grammy-winning Cajun musician Jo-EL Sonnier is being held this afternoon, and his funeral will be tomorrow in Sulphur. The 77-year-old collapsed shortly after a performance in Llano, Texas last Saturday. Executive Director of the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame Mike Shepard says Sonnier died doing what he loved…

Cut 6 (09) “…go out.” 

Sonnier was born in Rayne, Louisiana in 1946. As a child, he was diagnosed with autism and Shepard says as a way to cope, his physician told him to learn to play an instrument. Shepard says Sonnier’s doctors agreed with his choice of the accordion.

Cut 7 (05) “…that happened.” 

During his musical career, Sonnier was honored with numerous accolades, including a Grammy in 2015, an ACM Male Vocalist of the Year nomination and he was inducted into seven Music Hall of Fames. Shepard says the recognition for doing what he loved was extremely meaningful to Sonnier.

Cut 8 (09) “…his heart.” 

In addition to playing all over the world, Sonnier was a studio musician on more than 100 albums including Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Neil Diamond, and Merle Haggard. He also wrote songs for George Strait and fellow Louisianian Jerry Lee Lewis.

Instead of flowers, donations can be made to AutismSpeaks-dot-org.

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Governor Jeff Landry says a new deal has been struck to build a new I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge. Landry says this plan reduces the overall cost of the bridge by 25 percent. He says federal and state dollars will pay for the bridge, plus tolls, but not as high as proposed by the Edwards Administration

Cut 9 (10) “…26 percent” 

Landry says because of Lake Charles’s proximity to Texas, 60 percent of the people paying the tolls will be from outside of Louisiana.

Landry says the state will also get 15 percent equity in the bridge under the deal negotiated with Calcasieu Bridge Partners. He says that means 15 percent of the profits will go back to the area. The governor says that money can be used to reduce tolls or fund other projects

Cut 10 (08) “…imperial Calcasieu” 

The Louisiana Motor Transport Association opposed the financing plan proposed last year by the Edwards administration and they do not like Landry’s plan, even though it reduces the toll for trucks to cross the bridge from $12.50 to $8.25. Director of the L-M-T-A Renee Amar…

Cut 11 (11) “…Louisiana truckers.”

It could cost two billion dollars to replace the Calcasieu River Bridge built in 1952. Amar says no other stretch of I-10 from California and Florida is tolled and believes federal and state tax dollars should pay for construction…

Cut 12 (08)  “…money eventually”  

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The Louisiana Legislature has sent a Congressional map to the governor’s desk that has two majority Black districts. This could result in a second Louisiana Democrat being elected to the U-S House. State Representative Beau Beuallieu says the proposed Congressional boundaries also protect four Republican members…

Cut 13 (15) “…Louisiana” 

A federal judge ordered the Louisiana Legislature to redraw the Congressional map lawmakers approved in 2022, because it violated the Voting Rights Act by not having two majority-minority districts.

U.S. District Judge Shelly Dick gave the legislature a January 30th deadline to rewrite the map, so Governor Landry called lawmakers into a special session. St. Bernard Parish Representative Michael Bayham voted against the map because of the rushed process.

Cut  14 (08) “…a mess”

Beauailleau says if the Legislature did not redraw the map, Judge Shelly Dick would and that could be messy too…

Cut 15 (11) “…her decision”

The Foo Fighters and Chris Stapleton are among the headliners for JazzFest this year, that’s in addition to The Rolling Stones. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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There have been 38 home fires in Louisiana in the just the last four days. Colleen Crain discusses fire response and safety…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Colleen Crain” 

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Blood donations have dropped to critical levels in Louisiana. Spokesperson for The Blood Center, Paul Adams, says a combination of things has led to a lull in supply, the holidays, carnival season, and the cold weather.

Cut 3 (12) “…blood supply.”

Preferrable, Adams says they like to have a supply of 3 to 5 days on hand but at the moment it’s down to one day.

Cut 4 (10) “…anybody.”

Donating blood has its perks; Adams says you’ll learn your blood type and they can check your cholesterol and iron levels…

Cut 5 (07) “…three lives.” 

Since the pandemic. Ochsner Health has seen a 40% drop in blood donations, with more people working from home and blood drives at schools and the workplace not as routine as they were in the past

To find a blood drive near you in southeast Louisiana visit TheBloodCenter-dot-org or reach out to your local hospital to find their local supplier.

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The line-up for JazzFest is out and in addition to The Rolling Stones headlining, the Foo Fighters, Chris Stapleton, and Queen Latifah are also on the bill. NOLA.com and Times-Picayune Entertainment Writer Keith Spera says they’ve also got some of the fresher younger bands playing.

Cut 6 (12) “…this year.” 

Spera says festival organizers have outdone themselves again, bringing in big names, and up-and-coming artists while also paying a nod to those artists who made JazzFest what it is today. For example, a tribute to the late Jimmy Buffett…

Cut 7 (10) “…as well.” 

The dates this year are April 25^th through the 28^th and May 2^nd through the 5^th. Spera says it’s kind of a bonus JazzFest this year with eight days at the Fairgrounds versus seven.

Cut 8 (13) “…top to bottom.” 

Weekend passes and VIP Packages are also on sale now. For the full line-up visit NOjazzfest.com

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In the first 18 days of 2024 there have been 131 fires across Louisiana and in the last four days, 38. Regional Disaster Officer for the Red Cross, Ed Bush says during these cold days keep safe by keeping space heaters and other heat producing electric items away from flammables in your home…

Cut 9 (08) “…inside the house.” 

Bush also says, be sure to unplug the heaters before going to bed.

Tragic House fires are far too common especially in the cold weather, but Bush says, one thing can make the difference in your survival….

Cut 10 (10) “…out safely.” 

The Red Cross will install a smoke detector free of charge if you ask.

Bush says the Red Cross responds to house fires and provides comfort and financial assistance and he wishes everyone would have a plan and prepare for the possibility…

Cut 11 (09) “…emergency plan.”

Information for those wanting to volunteer or partner with the Red Cross in times of tragedy and need, visit RedCross Dot Org Slash Louisiana

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A 22-year-old woman is behind bars in Livingston Parish after allegedly fatally shooting her father and sister. Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard says 22-year-old Kennetra Ary killed two of her family members at a mobile home near Walker…

Cut 12 (13)  “…their lives”  

58-year-old Kenneth Ary of Walker and 21-year-old Helen Ary of Tomball, Texas were found dead at the scene. Ard says a Walker police officer who lived near the shooting got to the scene quickly…

Cut 13 (10) “…this situation” 

Kennetra Ary was charged with two counts of first degree murder. Ard says she was arrested at the scene…

Cut  14 (08) “…the moment.”

The Bayou State is thawing from the frigid temperatures of the last few days, but winter isn’t over yet. Colleen Crain looks ahead to the warmup and cool down of the next few days…

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson believes the Louisiana Legislature should not draw a new Congressional map. Jeff Palermo reports the Bossier Parish Republican says the state should press for a trial on the current map…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Nicholls State University has received a $3-million donation, which is the largest in the school’s history. Nicholls’ spokesperson Jerad David says the Mary and Al Danos Family Foundation commitment will be used to construct a new College of Business Administration.

Cut 3 (11) “…State University.”

David says Al Danos was always a big fan and supporter of the university and the generous donation from his family will not only go towards funding a new building, but it will also carry on the family’s legacy.

Cut 4 (11) “…Business Administration.”

Approximately one-fifth of Nicholls’ students are business majors.

In addition to the $3-million donation, David says the school is seeking state capital outlay funds and private funds to construct the new Al Danos building.

David says the atrium in the new building will be named after The Brady Family, who’s also from Bayou Lafourche, thanks to their recent donation. He says they hope these donations will inspire others to leave their mark on the university as well.

Cut 5 (11) “…new facility.” 

The new building will be located on the current site of the school’s J.J. Ayo Swimming Pool.

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The Bayou State is coming out of a deep freeze but don’t put away your hats and gloves just yet.  Montra Lockwood with the National Weather Service Lake Charles says to look for a short break from the freeze…

Cut 6 (08) “…on Friday.” 

Tonight, expect temperatures in the 20s north of I-10 and in the lower 30s in the southern part of the state.

After the quick reprieve from the freezing temperatures, expect a frigid weekend says Lockwood…

Cut 7 (08) “…I-10 corridor.” 

The weekend temperatures will still challenge Louisiana’s normal winter lows but as far as snow and freezing rain, Lockwood says…

Cut 8 (09) “…next week.” 

Lockwood says warmer weather, up into the 60s is coming next week.

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U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson believes Louisiana’s current Congressional map is constitutional and the state legislature should not approve a new map with two Black majority districts. But Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill says the state has exhausted all of its legal avenues…

Cut 9 (10) “…map.” 

U-S District Judge Shelly Dick ruled the map the Louisiana Legislature approved in 2022 violates the Voting Rights Act because only one of the six districts provides an avenue for a Black candidate to get elected.

Speaker Johnson says there should be a full-blown trial on Louisiana’s current map, but Murrill says they have to follow Judge Dick’s order to draw a new map by January 30th…

Cut 10 (10) “…my remedies.” 

Governor Jeff Landry is backing a map that makes Republican Garret Graves’ sixth district the second Black voting district. Louisiana’s lone Black Congressman Troy Carter says the governor and the legislature are doing the right thing…

Cut 11 (05) “…African American districts.”

The map Landry supports is up for a vote in the Senate today. Graves calls it a crazy proposal because it runs from Baton Rouge to Shreveport.

Johnson leads a chamber with a slim Republican majority and a new map with two majority minority districts would likely give Democrats another seat in the House.

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As legislators debate changing to closed-party primary elections, US Senator Bill Cassidy believes it’s a waste of money.  A fiscal note on the legislation quotes a $10 million figure for next fiscal year and $6 million for the following fiscal year. Cassidy says a Louisiana pollster has estimated a $90 million cost to taxpayers.

Cut 12 (08)  “…on here.”  

Cassidy also worries the change will disenfranchise the state’s approximately 800-thousand Independent voters. The Republican also believes if the system isn’t broken don’t fix it and that taxpayers shouldn’t pick up the tab.

Cut 13 (07) “…you pay for it.” 

Cassidy says the public doesn’t see closed party primaries as a priority.

Cut  14 (12) “…(x2) roads and bridges.”

Cassidy says voters who have a strong opinion on open or closed primaries should contact their state lawmakers.

The Saints have fired offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael after 18 seasons with the organization, 15 as the offensive coordinator. Beau Gaspard has the story…

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Beau Gaspard”

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The House Governmental Affairs Committee approves a bill to move Louisiana from a jungle primary to closed party primaries. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 2 (35)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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The congressional map backed by Governor Landry, that drastically changes Congressman Garret Graves district advances from committee. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (43) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Saints have fired offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael. Carmichael was the offensive coordinator for the last 15 seasons and he’s been with the franchise for 18 years. After missing the playoffs for a third consecutive season, change felt inevitable according to the host of the Locked On Saints podcast Ross Jackson…

Cut 4 (12) “…offensive system.”

Many in the Who Dat Nation believe head coach Dennis Allen should be fired, but Jackson says the Saints look at the inconsistency of the offense as a reason why Carmichael needed to be replaced.

Cut 5 (13) “…improve here.” 

Jackson on some possible replacements for Carmichael…

Cut 6 (11) “…in the NFL.”

Senior offensive assistant Bob Bicknell and wide receivers coach Kodi Burns were also let go.

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The House Governmental Affairs Committee approves a closed-party primary bill supported by Governor Jeff Landry. Carencro Representative Julie Emerson’s proposal would shift, federal, statewide, and certain judicial elections from a jungle primary to closed-party primaries. New Orleans Democrat Candace Newell says the Legislature should not rush to do this

Cut 7 (12) “…dedicate to it.”

Governor Jeff Landry wants lawmakers to pass this legislation during the current special session which ends next Tuesday.

Opponents also raised concerns that Independents will be disenfranchised because they can’t vote in the primaries. But Emerson says that’s not accurate…

Cut 8 (12) “…party.” 

Supporters of the closed primary system say it will lead to better candidates on the ballot for the general election. Emerson says voters who identify with a party should be in control of that process

Cut 9 (11)  “…nominee.”

Louisiana uses a closed-party system to nominate a President and the state had closed primaries for the 2008 and 2010 federal elections. Public Affairs Research Council President Steven Procopio says voters found closed primaries confusing and demanded the state goes back to the jungle primary system…

Cut 10 (07) “…rid of it.”

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The congressional map redesign Governor Jeff Landry supports in the special session, Senate Bill 8, makes drastic changes to Congressman Garret Graves’s district and the Baton Rouge Republican is not happy about it. The proposal would make the sixth district the second Black majority district and it extends from Baton Rouge to Caddo Parish. Graves says…

Cut 11 (10) “…State of Louisiana.” 

Graves points out that the congressional map passed by a two-thirds majority in the legislature two years ago has not been through what’s called a merits trial, to determine if it violates redistricting principles or not.

Cut 12 (13) “…incredibly premature.” 

Graves also wonders why the Republican-controlled legislature would just roll over without fighting for the current map and accept the proposed map in Senate Bill 8 because it would weaken the GOP majority in the US House.

While presenting Senate Bill 8 in committee, Catahoula Parish Senator Glen Womack says the map’s boundaries assure Congresswoman Julia Letlow, who serves on US Appropriations and Agriculture committees remains unimpaired by any other congressional incumbents…

Cut 13 (06) “…this decade.”

Because of the geographical makeup of the state’s Black population, Womack says this particular map creates two Black-majority districts; District 2 represents minorities in New Orleans, and District 6, includes minorities in Baton Rouge and extends to include Blacks in Shreveport. He says this map also ensures Letlow will remain in Congress and…

Cut 14 (11) “…of Louisiana.” 

Senate Bill 8 which advanced from committee is one of several maps lawmakers are considering during the special session.

US District Judge Shelly Dick, of the Middle District of Louisiana, issued an end-of-the-month deadline for lawmakers to redraw the state’s Congressional map with two Black-majority districts.

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Louisiana Tech’s Athletic Director is heading to Ole Miss. After serving the university for three years marked by some major challenges, Dr. Eric Wood will become a Senior Deputy AD at Ole Miss. Tech President Dr. Jim Henderson says Wood will be missed

Cut 15 (11) “…in the classroom”

After tornados destroyed athletic facilities, Wood raised funds and oversaw the rebuilding of a new baseball park, and a softball and soccer complex Henderson called a marvel of innovation. Henderson says Wood supports the student in the student-athlete…

Cut 16 (10) “..proud of them” 

Dr. Wood will serve through the end of January then Deputy Athletic Director Mary Kay Hungate will serve as interim AD. Henderson says in the next few weeks, Louisiana Tech will develop a process to select the next athletic director worthy of the Bulldogs…

Cut 17 (10) “…towards that vision.” 

Louisiana is feeling more like a deep freeze than the Deep South. Colleen Crain has more on Tuesday and Wednesday’s extreme cold.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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As wintery weather conditions impact the state, a combination of freezing rain, ice, and snow in north Louisiana is causing hazardous driving conditions for motorists. Teiko Foxx has more on what this means for drivers.

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Governor Jeff Landry urges state legislators to pass a Congressional map with two black voting districts and makes the case for closed primaries. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A new poll released shows there is support for closed primaries. A survey released last week found that 56 percent oppose changing to a closed primary system. But Pollster Bernie Pinsonat says a majority of respondents to his survey of 600 likely voters approve several features of a closed-party primary…

Cut 4 (12) “..revealing”

59 percent said it makes sense for Republicans and Democrats to pick their party candidates in a closed primary and 56 percent like the idea of a November ballot with one Democrat, one Republican, and potentially independent candidates.

Pinsonat says 70 percent of their respondents said party primaries in the spring and general elections in the fall would give voters more time to understand the candidates…

Cut 5 (10) “,…for months” 

Heated debate at the capitol is expected over Governor Jeff Landry’s proposal to shift from the state’s unique open “jungle primary” system to closed party primaries. Pinsonat says there is support for closed primaries but it’s not overwhelming

Cut 6 (10) “…the other”

Project Louisiana Values funded the poll. Legislators will debate a shift to closed party primaries during the ongoing special session.

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Frigid weather is impacting Louisiana so just how cold is it going to feel Tuesday and Wednesday? Cameron Kowalski with the National Weather Service in Lake Charles says the wind is going to make it feel even colder along the I-10 corridor.

Cut 7 (11) “…mid 30s”

North Louisiana is expected to see temperatures as low as 10 degrees Tuesday with wind gusts possibly up to 25 miles per hour and the day’s highs will still be extremely cold says Kowalski…

Cut 8 (08) “…freezing mark.” 

By Wednesday morning winds will die down but Kowalski says temperatures will drop even lower as the skies clear.

Cut 9 (12)  “…low as 12.”

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Louisiana State Police urges motorists to use caution as the roads could be slick this morning. Trooper Ryan Davis says DOTD crews have been applying salt and de-icing agents to bridges impacted by winter precipitation.

Cut 10 (03) “…roads and bridges”

Motorists should drive slowly and allow extra time to get to your destination.

Davis recommends staying off the roadway until conditions improve but if you drive, let someone know…

Cut 11 (11) “…them assistance.” 

Several roads, bridges and overpasses are closed. It’s illegal and and unsafe to drive around a road-closed barricade and violators can be fined up to 500 dollars or face jail time.

If you get stranded, Davis says motorists can call star-LSP or star-577 for help…

Cut 12 (10) “…their trip.” 

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Governor Jeff Landry opened the special session by calling on lawmakers to pass a Congressional map with two majority Black voting districts. Landry says if the state Legislature does not do it before the special session ends on January 23rd, the federal courts will

Cut 13 (12) “..federal judge”

Judge Shelly Dick ordered Louisiana to redraw the Congressional map by January 30th. The current map violates the Voting Rights Act, because the state’s population is one-third Black, therefore one-third of the state’s Congressional districts should have a Black majority.

Chair of the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus Candace Newell took to the House floor before Landry spoke and said she’s received assurances from the governor and Republican Legislative leadership that they will pass a map with two voting Black districts

Cut 14 (11) “..what is right” 

During this special session, Landry also wants legislators to pass legislation that will shift Louisiana’s elections from the jungle open primary to closed party primaries. He says it’s only right for voters in a political party to choose their candidate to represent them in the General Election…

Cut 15 (14) “…decipher”

Landry is also urging legislators to pass a new Supreme Court Justice District map. There are currently seven districts and Landry says there should be two Black-majority districts. He says the federal courts are threatening to draw a new map if the Louisiana Legislature doesn’t…

Cut 16 (16) “..as another one” 

Legislators will also debate whether there should be nine Supreme Court districts instead of the current seven.

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The Pelicans lost a close, back-and-forth game to the Dallas Mavericks yesterday 125 to 120. Dallas was physical which contributed to the Mavericks’ 32 free throws on the afternoon as the Pelicans got into foul trouble early in the game. New Orleans Head Coach Willie Green says Dallas had them on their heels to start the game.

Cut 17 (22) “… physical team.” 

Another influential factor in the Mavericks win was the play of Dallas Center Dereck Lively II and Point Guard Kyrie Irving who both had big nights as Irving scored 42 points, had 7 rebounds, and 7 assists and Lively had 12 rebounds. Green says most of Lively’s rebounds were during big moments and created key opportunities for the Mavs.

Cut 18 (23)  “… back out.” 

CJ McCollum and Zion Williamson combined for 53 of New Orleans’ 120 points against Dallas. McCollum also had 6 rebounds and 4 assists and says that a big part of his success in the game was adopting a more aggressive style of play.

Cut 19 (15) “… second quarter.” 

State lawmakers begin a special session at 4 PM today. Teiko Foxx reports the top priority is drawing new boundaries for the state’s Congressional map…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

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A Cajun music legend passed away following a concert in Texas over the weekend. Colleen Crain has more on the life of Jo-El Sonnier…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.” 

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Winter weather is expected this week with the low predicted to be in the teens. Humane Society of Louisiana urge pet owners not to leave pets outside especially overnight. Director Jeff Dorson says if it’s too cold for you to be outside, its probably too cold for your furry friends.

Cut 3 (13) “…be comfortable.”

State law requires pet owners to bring pets inside when temperatures fall below fifty degrees. This means it will be illegal to leave a pet out in the cold this week.

When it comes to larger animals like livestock, Dorson recommends putting them in stalls, sheds, or barns and give them enough food. He says its important for owners to bring pets inside when the temperature dips to freezing conditions.

Cut 4 (09) “…as well.”

Another important precaution is to keep antifreeze away from pets or where they can get to it. Dorson says antifreeze has a sweet taste that animals like, so if you spill it – clean it up.

Cut 5 (11) “…it’s fatal.” 

If you see a pet left out in the cold, contact your local animal control office or police department.

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Snow sleet and freezing rain has been falling across northern parishes of Louisiana. LRN meteorologist Bill Jacquemin says it’s been a light dusting so far…

Cut 6 (09) “..ice up first” 

Jacquemin says there’s a hard freeze warning out for most of the state…

Cut 7 (07) “…on Wednesday.” 

For south Louisiana light rain is expected to change over to freezing rain this afternoon into tomorrow morning. Only a glaze ice is possible on roads and the ground. Jacquemine says the bigger concern for south Louisiana is cold temperatures…

Cut 8 (09) “…into tomorrow” 

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The Louisiana Legislature begins a special session at 4 PM today and the main priority is for lawmakers to redraw the Congressional boundaries with two majority minority districts, instead of one. Senate President Pro Tem and Baton Rouge Senator Regina Barrow believes they can get it done before the session ends on January 23rd…

Cut 9 (08) “…we agree on.” 

A federal judge has given the Louisiana Legislature a January 30th deadline to draw a six-district Congressional map, with two majority minority districts.

Barrow says House Democrats are proposing a second majority minority district that covers a significant portion of the Baton Rouge area, the Felicianas, Avoyelles Parish, the Mississippi River Delta parishes and northeast Louisiana…

Cut 10 (09) “..to be submitted.” 

Barrow says she expects the Republicans proposal for a Congressional District map will have significant implications for Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves…

Cut 11 (11) “…the question”

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Louisiana and the world of Cajun and Country music morns Jo-El Sonnier, the man who took the music of South Louisiana to the world. Saturday, while on tour in Texas, Sonnier received a standing ovation for one of his biggest hits, Tear-Stained Letter, before he left the stage to rest before signing autographs. Minutes later he suffered a fatal heart attack. Cajun Music Historian, Wade Falcon…

Cut 12 (11)  “…this world.”  

Sonnier died doing what he had done his whole life, bringing joy to his audience with his songs like No More One More Time, Come on Joe, Raining in My Heart and others. Falcon says the Emmy award winning Cajun brought music to the world on local and national record labels and stages, and his remarkable career started early…

Cut 13 (09) “…ever since then.” 

From a young age Sonnier learned from and played alongside great Cajun musicians from the post World War II Dance Hall era. Falcon says, Sonnier lived and breathed his style of music…

Cut  14 (11) “..multiple times.”

Sonnier had a reputation for generosity. He performed and collaborated with many well-known Cajun and Country artists.

A government watchdog group is concerned the call for this special session is too broad. Collen Crain reports legislators will attempt to approve new Congressional and Supreme Court district maps, make changes to campaign finance laws and switch to a party primary system for all elections.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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 The special session to redraw the state’s congressional districts gets underway this afternoon, and the governor wants lawmakers to address a dozen other issues too. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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North Louisiana is seeing winter precipitation this morning, while the entire state will experience below freezing temperatures Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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If it was up to Governor Jeff Landry, he would not have called a special session a week after a new Legislature was sworn in. During an appearance on the Moon Griffon show, Landry says a mid-January special session is needed because a federal judge set a January 30th deadline to  redraw a Congressional district map with two majority-minority districts, instead of one..

Cut 4 (12) “..do it”

Five of the six Congressional districts have white majorities. Republicans fought for this map when it was approved in 2022, but a federal judge ruled it violates the Voting Rights Acts, because a third of the state’s population is Black. During an appearance on the Moon Griffon Show, Landry says legislators will draw a map with a second majority Black district…

Cut 5 (12) “…control the outcome.”

Lawmakers have until September 23rd to complete their redistricting work. Landry says after that they’ll turn their attention to a special session that will attempt to lower the crime rate…

Cut 6 (06) “…to work on.”

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This afternoon, Louisiana lawmakers convene a special Legislative session to address the court-ordered redistricting of Louisiana’s congressional map and there are several other complicated issues on the agenda. The special session must conclude on January 23rd. Council for a Better Louisiana President Barry Erwin says legislators do not have a lot of time…

Cut 7 (12) “…campaign finance.”

Erwin says it takes at least five days to pass a bill and with an eight-day special session, he’s concerned some lawmakers are trying to tackle too much, including Governor Landry’s proposal to move from jungle primaries to closed party primaries….

Cut 8 (10) “…new lawmakers.” 

The special session was called because a federal court ordered the Bayou State to redraw Louisiana’s congressional districts to include a second majority-black district by January 30^th. Erwin understands the need for a special session now, but maybe legislators should just focus on redrawing the Congressional map…

Cut 9 (10)  “…would look like.”

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The special session gets underway this afternoon for lawmakers to redraw the state’s congressional district map after the current six-district map with one majority Black district was ruled unconstitutional because the courts believe there should be two majority Black districts. LA-Politics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says it’s anybody’s guess what will happen this time around…

Cut 10 (07) “…or not.”

During the brief session scheduled to end a week from tomorrow, lawmakers will also, at the request of the State Supreme Court, redraw the state’s judicial districts, which Alford says a second Black majority district could be added to that map as well.

Cut 11 (12) “…make of.” 

Governor Landry issued a proclamation that outlined twelve additional items for lawmakers to debate during the special session. Alford says among them is changing from open primaries to closed party primaries elections.

Cut 12 (08) “…gum up the works.” 

The topics on Landry’s agenda are all related to elections, ranging from campaign finances to amendments to the state code related to the implementation of elections.

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The entire I-20 corridor is under a winter storm warning as snow, sleet and freezing rain is expected to fall through the afternoon hours. Ryan Knapp is a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Shreveport….

Cut 13 (14) “..sleet accumulations”

There’s a chance for freezing rain for entire the state. It will be very light for south Louisiana. Knapp says central Louisiana could see one to two-tenths of an inch of freezing rain…

Cut 14 (11) “..heavier impacts.” 

And it will be cold for the next few days. Highs for north Louisiana will be in the mid to upper 20s today. Central Louisiana will see highs near the freezing mark. Mid-40s for south Louisiana today. Cameron Kowalski with the National Weather Service in Lake Charles says tomorrow will be the coldest day for south Louisiana…

Cut 15 (11) “…the coast”

Kowalski says this storm system will also produce northerly winds of 20 to 25 miles per hour which is why there is a wind chill advisory for nearly the entire state…

Cut 16 (12) “..single digits” 

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The seventh ranked LSU women’s basketball team’s 16-game winning streak ended yesterday with a 67-62 defeat to unranked Auburn. It was a back and forth game that saw 17 lead changes and seven ties, but LSU shot just 42-percent from the field. Coach Kim Mulkey says Auburn’s defense was disruptive…

Cut 17 (15) “…came at us” 

The loss drops LSU’s record to 16-2, 3-and-1 in the SEC. It was the first conference win of the year for Auburn. After the game, Mulkey spent a long time in the locker room with her team. She says they talked about what they could have done better…

Cut 18 (23)  “…accountable.” 

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The LSU men’s basketball team also lost in Auburn this past weekend as the Bayou Bengals trailed by as many as 28 points in the second half before falling to 16th ranked team in the country 93-78. Coach Matt McMahon says Auburn is an elite team with no weaknesses…

Cut 19 (19) “…in transition” 

LSU turned it over 17 times and shot jut 42-percent from the field. Trae Hannibal came off the bench and scored 18 points in a losing effort…

Cut 20 (12) “…stay together.”

LSU hosts Ole Miss on Wednesday.

Crawfish fans might want to start a savings account and prep for a much smaller platter this year. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Amazon announces plans to build a distribution facility in Monroe. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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LSU Ag Center Crawfish Specialist Mark Shirley warns crawfish connoisseurs that 2024 will be one of the worst mudbug seasons on record as far as prices and supply are concerned. He says it’s so dire farmers are averaging one to two mudbugs a trap.

Cut 3 (13) “…(x2) just not there.”

And he worries the freeze forecasted next week will only make things worse.

Shirley says Louisiana should have 361,000 acres of crawfish production, that’s what farmers probably would have flooded up back in the fall, but the drought hampered things severely.

Cut 4 (11) “…the farm.”

And the Super Bowl of Crawfish, Easter is March 31st.

The other unknown Shirley says is wild crawfish in the Atchafalaya Basin. Right now, he says the water levels are only two to three feet which is very low, and unless we get a lot of rain in the Mississippi watershed…

Cut 5 (09) “ …at all.” 

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Republican U-S Senator Bill Cassidy is not a fan of Governor Jeff Landry’s proposal to move Louisiana from an open primary election system to closed party primaries. A Louisiana pollster says such a dramatic change to how elections are held will cost the state an additional 90-million dollars a year. Cassidy says the state has bigger priorities to fund…

Cut 6 (11) “…coastal restoration.” 

In next week’s redistricting special session, legislators will have the opportunity to debate a move to closed party primaries. Louisiana Republican Party Chair Louis Gurvich told the Advocate newspaper the party has been arguing for it for decades.

Louisiana’s open primary system has been around since the 1970s. In 2008 and 2010 Louisiana party-run primaries for just federal races, but Cassidy says it caused confusion and independent voters were upset they could not vote in a closed primary…

Cut 7 (04) “…too expensive” 

Landry has yet to provide any additional comments on why supports closed party primaries. Supporters say it leads to better candidates in the general election and it would end the December run-off that occurs for  Congressional races. But Cassidy says how Louisiana elects its officials is not broken, so why fix it

Cut 8 (10) “…or police” 

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Amazon, the leading global online retailer, is opening a 56 thousand square foot distribution facility in Monroe. Mayor Friday Ellis says the facility will provide 200 jobs between 17 to 28 dollars per hour.

Cut 9 (09) “…people live.” 

Ellis says Amazon’s announcement will hopefully result in more economic development for the region.

Cut 10 (08) “…northeast Louisiana.” 

The distribution plant will be located at the intersection of Luffey Drive and I-20 North Frontage Road and construction is expected to begin in the coming weeks. Ellis says this will also be a win for local small businesses.

Cut 11 (11) “…as community.”

Career opportunities and job hiring will be offered closer to the facility’s launch date.

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A new poll finds the cost of insurance is the biggest issue facing Louisiana residents. There was talk of a special session on insurance reform before the regular session starts in March, but Senate President Cameron Henry says because of the complexity of insurance laws, it would be better to wait until the regular session..

Cut 12 (05)  “…bit more”  

The regular session begins March 11th and it will continue until June 3rd. Henry says new Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple has a lot of ideas on how to improve the insurance market in Louisiana and it would be better to discuss those ideas during a three month long session

Cut 13 (07) “..a difference” 

One of Jeff Landry’s first acts as governor is calling lawmakers to the state capitol for a redistricting session. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A statewide poll of 650 likely voters finds car and home insurance rates are the number one issue for Louisianans. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.” 

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Governor Jeff Landry has issued the call for a redistricting special session. It will begin Monday and legislators will have until January 23rd at 6 PM to finish their work. Senate President Cameron Henry says legislators will redraw the Congressional and Supreme Court map and debating a move to a closed primary elections…

Cut 3 (09) “…get done.”

Moving from open primary elections to closed primaries would be a major change in how we elect our officials. Henry says the special session is at least giving legislators the ability to debate this issue and can vote on it at a later time…

Cut 4 (08) “…cost of it.”

Currently all of the candidates are placed on a primary ballot, regardless of party and the top two vote getters head into a runoff, unless one of the candidates has a majority of the vote. A closed party primary system would have Republicans and Democrats holding their own primaries and the winners facing each other in a general election.

Henry says a closed party primary election would end the December run-off in Congressional elections, which  hurts newly elected U-S Representatives and Senators when it comes to seniority…

Cut 5 (10) “ …which is huge” 

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A JMC Analytics poll reveals 26 percent of Louisianans believe the cost of homeowner and car insurance is the biggest issue in the Bayou State. Legislation addressing the state’s high insurance premiums will be discussed in the regular session that begins in the spring and Pollster John Couvillon says residents will be paying attention to what lawmakers are going to do.

Cut 6 (07) “…insurance commissioner.” 

Homeowners in Louisiana pay on average about two thousand dollars every year for insurance. And Louisiana ranked second to Florida for the highest car insurance rates.

The poll of 650 likely voters indicates crime is the third top issue right behind education and healthcare. Couvillon says a new legislature will tackle crime in a special session next month. With Louisiana ranked one of the most dangerous state in the country in 2023, he says it’s not shocking that crime is an issue for Louisianans.

Cut 7 (06) “…couple years.” 

Taxes and spending ranked fourth, inflation ranked fifth, and social issues like abortion ranked sixth.

During the regular session, Couvillon says Governor Jeff Landry and the new legislature will have to solve issues that are important to residents across the state.

Cut 8 (13) “…right now.” 

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Among Governor Landry’s first actions in office was overturning the appeals process for high school seniors who fail the LEAP exam. Council for a Better Louisiana President Barry Erwin says Landry mentioned early on that he was against this particular proposal for waving those graduation requirements…

Cut 9 (08) “…in office.” 

Erwin says if the governor hadn’t issued the executive order, he believes incoming BESE members would have overturned the appeal process that was at the center of controversy…

Cut 10 (12) “…requirements.” 

Erwin also points out that the governor makes three appointments to BESE.

Louisiana is the only state in the country that does not have an appeals process. Erwin says the debate highlighted two issues… one that the process was for students who were not fluent in English, and two that this particular process was implemented at the end of Edward’s term.

Cut 11 (12) “…the future.”

The first BESE Board meeting for 2024 is scheduled for January 17^th.

The potential for tornadoes hail, and flash flooding is expected for south Louisiana thru early tomorrow morning. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Mudbug season is questionable this year, after the heat and drought of 2023. Brooke Thorington has more…

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

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Severe weather is expected to impact the southern half of Louisiana for the next several hours. National Weather Service Meteorologist Christopher Bannan says flash flooding is possible this afternoon thru early tomorrow morning for southeast Louisiana…

Cut 3 (12) “…eight inches.”

Bannan says a strong line of storms could be capable of producing some tornadoes, which is why a tornado watch has been issued for southwest Louisiana..

Cut 4 (11) “…strong tornadoes.”

Once the line starts to develop, it will move to the east quickly and out of the Bayou State by early morning.

Bannan says there’s a moderate risk for flash flooding for southeast Louisiana…

Cut 5 (13) “ …potential develops.” 

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This crawfish season is among the most questionable in the Bayou State after the oppressive heat and drought of 2023. LSU AgCenter Crawfish Specialist Todd Fontenot says conditions have made it extremely difficult for the state’s favorite crustacean crop to thrive.

Cut 6 (08) “…this time.” 

Crawfish normally lay eggs in August but the drought dried out those areas where they normally retreat to reproduce.

Fontenot says many crawfish farmers made adjustments, for example, those who rotate from rice to crawfish, he says they irrigated post-harvest.

Cut 7 (11) “…as big as an effect.” 

On the bright side, Fontenot says the mild winter we’ve had so far has improved conditions for crawfish. But he’s quick to point out that for some farmers salinity issues and lack of rice stubble have devastated their mudbug crop.

Cut 8 (08) “…producers.” 

Fontenot says if you’re already craving crawfish, prepare for sticker shock due to the initial lack of supply.

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Eunice Republican Phillip Devillier was elected today as Louisiana’s new Speaker of the House. Devillier was elected to the House in 2015 and his district includes parts of Acadia, Evangeline and St. Landry Parishes. Devillier’s acceptance speech hit on a theme Governor Jeff Landry touched on during his inauguration speech and that’s unity….

Cut 9 (09) “… are coming” 

Devillier says Louisiana faces a lot of challenges and its residents have waited long enough for real change…

Cut 10 (14) “…Louisiana succeeds” 

Senators elected Metairie Republican Cameron Henry as its President. Henry was elected to the state House of Representatives in 2008 and he’s beginning his second term as a state senator…

Cut 11 (05) “…great honor”

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The Saints missed the playoffs despite blowing out Atlanta out 48-17 yesterday to finish with a 9-8 record. There’s a lot of talk about what happened at the end of the game when Jamaal Williams scored a touchdown from one yard out with three seconds left. Coach Dennis Allen didn’t want his team to score again

Cut 12 (10)  “…should be”  

Atlanta Coach Arthur Smith was furious after the game and refused to shake Allen’s hand. Quarterback Jameis Winston says it was a team decision to give Williams the ball so he can finish the year with one touchdown…

Cut 13 (09) “..good about that”