John Bel Edwards’ first address since being elected Governor happened at the annual Louisiana Federation of Teachers convention in Lake Charles. Edwards says he has no plans to close charter schools, but charter school placement should not be a decision necessarily made by BESE…

cut 7 (10) “that simple”

Edwards also stated that he had no intention to take the voucher program off the books.

The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry says a $4,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for 86 suspected arsons in northwest Louisiana. Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says arson is a serious crime that comes with serious penalties…

cut 5 (08) “have destroyed”

He says these fires began in Bienville Parish and progressed into Jackson Parish.

Blue Bell ice cream lovers have an additional reason to celebrate this holiday season. The creamery is announcing they’re coming back to the Pelican State. Blue Bell pulled its ice cream from the shelves in April over listeria concerns. The popular ice cream has been coming back in phases over the last few months. Spokesperson Joe Robertson says most of their retail partners have welcomed them back and they’ll be in most major grocery stores. He says currently, they’re only selling five flavors of ice cream.

cut 10 (08) “start out”

Robertson says Blue Bell will begin restocking Louisiana grocery stores on December 21st.