A 40 million dollar expansion has been announced for the Elmer Chocolate factory in Ponchatoula. CEO Robert Nelson says this addition is necessary to stay in business for the long haul. He says the state is assisting through their fast start program which will help Elmer employees learn new job skills.

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Nelson says the 70 thousand square foot addition will allow the plant to do everything more efficiently.

It’s New Years’ Eve and that means fireworks. State Fire Marshal Butch Browning is encouraging everyone to keep safety in mind. He admits that accidents do happen and in the unfortunate incident that you are burned by fireworks, you should remain calm…

cut 6 (07) “medical attention”

He says you should always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and you should never shoot fireworks while drinking alcohol.

New young whooping cranes have been released into the Wetlands Conservation Area in Gueydan. Emelie Gunn has the story….

cut 2 (32) “a little bit”

In Ascension Parish, State Police arrested a Denham Springs man on seventh-offense DWI. 46-year-old Efremzimbalist Randle was pulled over after making an illegal U-turn. Authorities say Randle blew above the legal limit on a brethalyzer and failed a field sobriety test. He was booked into the Ascension Parish Jail on numerous charges.