The National Federation of Independent Business surveyed small businesses last month and found that more small business owners are optimistic. NFIB state director Leah Long says Congress making the 20-percent small business deduction permanent helped boost optimism and locally, small business owners are hopeful tort reform legislation approved in the regular session can help lower insurance rates over time…

Cut 7 (07) “….for that’

The U-S Forest Service is fighting a large wildfire in the Kisatchie Hills Wilderness Area in Natchitoches Parish. It has burned 15-hundred acres and Jim Caldwell says because of the wildfire, the entire Kisatchie Hills Wilderness area is closed…

Cut 15 (09) “….backpacks on”

Caldwell says they believe the wildfire will be contained by the end of the week. No structures have been damaged.

State Police arrested a Caddo Parish deputy for insurance fraud. Joe Gallinaro has the details…

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Joe Gallinaro”

A sheriff’s deputy in Concordia Parish is also facing charges. Authorities say 22-year-old Drakel Carter was arrested after a physical altercation involving another person. Carter is charged with malfeasance in office and simple battery.  He’s been placed on administrative leave as State Police continue to investigate.