The rapid spread of the Omicron variant of the coronavirus has caused a near-doubling of persons in the hospital in Louisiana in just one week. The state Department of Health reports 9,545 new cases in just seven days. Hospitalizations are at 449; up from about 250 last week. The Omicron variant accounts for about 84-percent of known cases. It is more infectious than previous variants, but appears to have less severe symptoms. LDH says take precautions against possible infection or re-infection.

2021 was a fairly good year for economic development in our state, despite the challenges. Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson says it could have easily been disastrous, with the ongoing COVID pandemic, the devastation of Category 4 Hurricane Ida, and more…:

CUT 12(14)      “…new capital investment.”

Pierson says this year saw deals struck to build a $10-billion liquid natural gas facility in Cameron Parish, hundreds of millions for expansions and improvements at Louisiana refineries and port facilities, plus major investments from the nations’ biggest online retailer; Amazon.

Christmas is behind us and the New Year is coming soon, and soon after that … tax time. Brooke Thorington has some filing tips…:

CUT 02(32)      “…Thorington.”

Residents in the Baton Rouge area are still in the dark about what caused a loud concussive boom heard between 10:30 and 11 pm on Christmas Eve. The explosion was heard by people for many miles in and around the Capital City. So far, there’s been no explanation, but the good news: nothing has been reported blown up either.