Elmer Chocolate announces they will undergo a 40 million dollar expansion to their Ponchatoula factory. CEO Robert Nelson says the 70 thousand square foot addition will allow the plant to do everything more efficiently…

cut 10 (10) “core business”

Nelson says this addition is necessary to stay in business for the long haul and will create a variety of new jobs at Elmer.

It’s New Years’ Eve and many across the state will celebrate by shooting fireworks tonight. State Fire Marshal Butch Browning encourages everyone to follow a few rules so you can enjoy your fireworks safely. He says you should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations…

cut 4 (09) “that’ll burn”

He also suggests that you have an ample water supply nearby to douse spent or misfired fireworks and you should never light fireworks in your hand.

Fourteen juvenile whooping cranes have been released into White Lake Wetlands Conservation Area. Wildlife Biologist with the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Sara Zimorski says the young birds join 26 adults already being monitored by wildlife officials…

cut 7 (12) “a little faster”

Zimorski says the birds were delivered in early December from the U.S. Geological Survey.

Kyle Brindza’s 32-yard field goal as time expired lifted Notre Dame to a 31-28 victory over LSU in yesterday’s Music City Bowl in Nashville. LSU ends their season with an 8-5 record.