U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson believes the Louisiana Legislature should not draw a new Congressional map. Jeff Palermo reports the Bossier Parish Republican says the state should press for a trial on the current map…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

34-year-old Rosizena Moore of Morgan City was arrested this morning after her two-year-old child overdosed on candies containing marijuana. Among her charges are second-degree cruelty to a minor and failure to seek assistance. The child is listed in stable condition.

The Bayou State is coming out of a deep freeze but don’t put away your hats and gloves just yet.  Montra Lockwood with the National Weather Service in Lake Charles says to look for a short break from the freeze…

Cut 6 (08) “…on Friday.” 

Tonight, expect temperatures in the 20s north of I-10 and in the lower 30s in the southern part of the state.

Nicholls State University has received a $3-million donation, which is the largest in the school’s history. Nicholls’ spokesperson Jerad David says the Mary and Al Danos Family Foundation commitment will be used to construct a new College of Business Administration.

Cut 3 (11) “…State University.”

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson believes Louisiana’s current Congressional map is constitutional and the legislature shouldn’t approve a new map with two Black majority districts. But State Attorney General Liz Murrill says otherwise…

Cut 9 (10) “…map.” 

A map with two majority Black districts pushed by Governor Landry that would change Congressman Garett Graves’ district to a majority Black one, stretching from Baton Rouge to Shreveport passed the in the full Senate 27 to 11.

As legislators debate changing to closed-party primary elections, US Senator Bill Cassidy says the public doesn’t see the issue as a priority.

Cut  14 (12) “…(x2) roads and bridges.”

That legislation passed in the full House and now heads a senate committee at the state capitol.

The Bayou State is thawing from the frigid temperatures of the last few days, but winter isn’t over yet. Colleen Crain looks ahead to the warmup and cool down of the next few days…

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

A Bossier City police officer was knocked unconscious after he slipped on ice responding to shots fired at a gas station around noon today. The officer hit his head and was taken to a local hospital. No arrets have been made, no one was hit by gunfire and an investigation is underway.

Portions of the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge are still closed after frozen rain iced the roadways. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett says the 18-mile bridge presents a huge challenge. He says they pretreated priority routes and try to keep the Interstates open as long as possible…

Cut 5 (11) “…Krotz Springs.” 

Hundreds of vehicles were stranded on the I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge for hours Monday. Westlake Police Chief Christopher Wilrye says the driver involved in the single-vehicle wreck, 37-year-old Jordon Foster of Lake Charles lost his life after he either jumped or fell off the bridge. Motorists traveling westbound began piling up and those traveling east were also trapped…

Cut 11 (06) “…a standstill.”

Both lanes have reopened.

Three Natchitoches police officers are recovering from injuries after attempting to arrest 25-year-old Lakendra Bolton who allegedly tried to steal from Super One Foods yesterday afternoon. Police spokesperson John Greely says she’s charged with several offenses including three counts of attempted first-degree murder and felony hit and run.

Cut 8 (05) “…be added.” 

Greely says Bolton injured one officer when she rammed her car head-on into a police vehicle then put her car in reverse and ran over two other officers. Their injuries range from serious to minor.

The Saints have fired longtime Offensive Coordinator Pete Carmichael. Carmicheal, who had been with the Black and Gold for 18 seasons was among the last remaining staff members who was part of former head coach Sean Payton’s initial staff.  Carmichael originally joined as a quarterback coach and then took over as offensive coordinator for the 2009 Super Bowl team.

A basketball game turned deadly Thursday night after a shooting in the parking lot at Bogalusa High School. Acting Bogalusa Police Chief Percy Knight says after multiple gunshots the suspects fled the scene. As for a motive, investigators do not believe the shooting was random.

Cut 7 (05) “…this point.” 

The 14-year-old male victim died at the hospital and the 13-year-old who was shot in the leg is expected to make a full recovery. The school says they will have grief counselors when school resumes on Tuesday after the holiday along with extra security.

Entergy Louisiana says they are temporarily suspending disconnections for non-payment from Monday through Friday next week due to the anticipated severely cold weather. Beyond January 19^th, Entergy says they will take a day-by-day approach on disconnections.

Governor Landry has issued a state of emergency ahead of the anticipated cold weather Sunday through Wednesday. He’s encouraging residents to prepare and to visit GetAGamePlan-dot-org for a guide. And before you travel visit 511-LA-dot-org for the latest road conditions.  Over the weekend you might want to check your car battery before the temperatures plumet.

You’ll definitely want to protect your tropical plants before the anticipated deep freeze. LSU Ag Center Horticulturist Heather Kirk-Ballard says if you have tropical or citrus trees planted in the ground to cover them during the day to trap in the heat, and put out mulch to insulate them…

Cut  14 (08) “..those roots.”

Windchills could be in the single digits Tuesday and Wednesday in Louisiana. And don’t forget to protect your pets and pipes as well.

Forecasters say an artic blast will invade the Bayou State Sunday into Wednesday. Teiko Foxx has more.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx”

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As Louisiana prepares for the coldest temperatures we’ve seen in years. Colleen Crain has some reminders for preparing your automobile…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.” 

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The National Weather Service urges Louisianans to prepare for the coldest weather the state has seen in years by Sunday, temperatures in the low teens north of I-20. Shreveport Meteorologist Carly Kovacik says the cold front will drop temperatures across the state.

Cut 3 (09) “…the state.”

Kovacik says snow, sleet, and freezing rain can not be ruled out for the I-20 corridor on Monday. By Tuesday morning, she says not much change in peak temperatures are expected…

Cut 4 (12) “..low temperatures.”

By the end of next week, temperatures will start to warm into the 50s. With winter ending in March, she says don’t put away those coats just yet.

Cut 5 (10) “…next month.” 

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A basketball game turned deadly Thursday night after a shooting in the parking lot at Bogalusa High School. Acting Bogalusa Police Chief Percy Knight says it happened but before 9 pm during the game against Covington.

Cut 6 (11) “…full recovery.” 

Knight says after multiple gunshots the suspects fled the scene. As for a motive, investigators do not believe the shooting was random.

Cut 7 (05) “…this point.” 

Police say they do not have any suspects at this time and they are asking for the public’s help. Knight says they believe the two victims were together and the shooting happened near a car that was in a parking lot located outside of a fence near the school.

Cut 8 (03) “…not a driveby.” 

(The deceased male victim was 14, and the 13-year-old male victim was shot in the leg)

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Pipes and pets are on our minds as frigid weather heads toward the Bayou State but we should also be preparing our autos for the freezing temperatures. Triple A Spokesperson Don Redman says to make sure you’re not stranded with a dead car battery…

Cut 9 (12) “…weak battery.” 

Redman says your mechanic and some auto parts stores can check your battery’s health for you.

Batteries that are 3 years old or older are at risk of failing in extreme temperatures, says Redman. Other signs of a weak battery include slow or sluggish starting and dim interior lights or headlights. Redman says a dead battery isn’t the only thing that could leave you stranded.

Cut 10 (09) “…spare tire.” 

Redman says don’t get caught with a flat spare. Check it out before the weather turns cold.

Redman also says it’s time to check the fluids in your vehicle. Wiper fluid should be winter-appropriate and anti-freeze is especially important. If you find it low, it’s important to remember…

Cut 11 (06) “…fits all.”

Your mechanic or auto parts store can recommend the appropriate fluids for your vehicle

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With a deep freeze in the forecast, you’ll want to be sure to protect your tropical plants. LSU Ag Center Horticulturist Heather Kirk-Ballard says if they are in containers move them indoors like a garage or your porch. But if those tropical plants are in the ground…

Cut 12 (11)  “…insulator.”  

Also during the day, Kirk-Ballard says to cover the plants with plastic, a sheet, or a frost cloth so they can trap in the heat from the day.

Cut 13 (12) “…it warm.” 

These are all things you can do to protect your citrus and fig trees that are planted in the ground.

As for your other plants, she recommends using mulch as an insulator to protect your perennials.

Cut  14 (08) “..those roots.”

Kirk-Ballard says your shrubs and other trees should be able to weather the deep freeze.

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The National Weather Service urges Louisianans to prepare for the coldest weather the state has seen in years by Sunday, bringing temperatures as low as thirteen degrees north of I-20 next week. Shreveport Meteorologist Carly Kovacik (Co-vah-check) expects temperatures to be dangerously cold in some parts of the state by Monday.

Cut 3 (09) “…the state.”

Kovacik expects the northern part of the state will experience a hard freeze. She says snow, sleet, and freezing rain cannot be ruled out by Monday morning into Tuesday night.

In Bogalusa police are investigating a shooting that killed on student outside of Bogalusa High School’s basketball game last night. Police say both students involved were under the age of 18, they were taken to a local hospital where one died and as of this morning the other student was still being treated for injuries.

We’ve already learned that the 2024 crawfish season is going to be one of the worst ever in terms of supply and prices due to the severe drought. And now LSU Agent Crawfish Specialist Mark Shirley warns the outlook for next year isn’t promising either.

Cut 6 (06) “…for next year.” 

He says the fields that don’t have crawfish this year will have to be restocked and with limited availability, it creates issues for the 2025 crop.

With the anticipated cold weather, the State Fire Marshal is encouraging you to practice space heater safety. And spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says a working smoke detector has proven to be the difference between life and death in a fire emergency.

Cut 9 (09)  “…get one.”

If you’re unable to afford a smoke detector visit Operation Save a Life at the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office website or call your local fire department.

A 25-year-old woman attempting to sell electronics to a man who contacted her through social media became the victim of violence Thursday. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Colleen Crain”

A West Monroe High School teacher has been charged with indecent behavior with a minor. The Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office 32-year-old Tatum Hatch allegedly had an improper relationship with one of her students and sent the victim inappropriate messages via Instagram.

Governor Jeff Landry is pushing for closed primary elections. Voters would have to be registered with a political party to vote in that party’s primary. Landry believes if voters want their vote to county they should register with the party of their choice.

Cut 6 (08) “…on the ballot.”

While redrawing the state’s congressional districts at the special session lawmakers could also debate changing to closed primary elections.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office issues a call to action for home heating safety following a fatal house fire in Washington Parish. Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires.

Cut 7 (11) “…(x2) a catalyst.”

Firefighters responded to a house fire in Mt. Hermon Tuesday where the 82-year-old bedridden homeowner was trapped inside.

Governor Jeff Landry believes Louisiana should have closed primary elections and he’s asking lawmakers to debate it in the special session Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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 The state’s first deadly house fire of 2024 in Washington Parish prompts heating safety warnings from the State Fire Marshal. Teiko Foxx has more…

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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 A 25-year-old woman attempting to sell electronics to a man who contacted her through social media became the victim of violence Thursday. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Colleen Crain”

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Governor Jeff Landry believes shifting to a closed-party primary election system is at the core of making fundamental changes to advance the Bayou State. Landry says other states do it and he defended his stance on the Moon Griffon Show.

Cut 4 (08) “…share ideas.”

The state has closed party primaries for the president and did for Congress in 2008 and 2010. Landry, who was elected to Congress in 2010 says now it’s a problem because our representation in DC could be decided as late as December.

Cut 5 (12) “…us back.”

But Senator Bill Cassidy says it hasn’t hindered the state’s current congressional clout whatsoever.

In a closed primary election, voters would have to be registered with a political party to vote in that particular primary. Landry believes if voters want to vote in either for example the Republican or Democratic primaries then they register with the party.

Cut 6 (08) “…on the ballot.”

While redrawing the state’s congressional districts at the special session lawmakers could also debate changing to closed primary elections.

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The State Fire Marshal’s Office issues a call to action for home heating safety following a fatal house fire in Washington Parish. Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says heating equipment is a leading cause of home fires.

Cut 7 (11) “…(x2) a catalyst.”

Firefighters responded to a house fire in the 38 thousand block of Bill Simmons Road in Mt. Hermon Tuesday where the 82-year-old bedridden homeowner was trapped inside.

Rodrigue says common heating-related causes of fires are preventable. If your home doesn’t have adequate heating and you plan to use a space heater, she suggests plugging it into a wall outlet…

Cut 8 (11) “…a fire.” 

Space heaters should also be placed three to five feet away from anything that can catch fire easily. And if using open flames like candles, or fireplaces to stay warm, put them out before going to sleep and never leave them unattended.

Rodrigue urges you to practice space heater safety. She says a working smoke detector has proven to be the difference between life and death in a fire emergency.

Cut 9 (09)  “…get one.”

If you need a smoke detector, visit Operation Save a Life at the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office website or call your local fire department.

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A violent morning Thursday in St. Bernard Parish ended with the death of the alleged perpetrator after he attacked a 25-year-old woman in Violet and fled in her car. St. Bernard Parish Sheriff James Pohlmann…

Cut 10 (11) “…the victim.”

The alleged attacker has been identified as 27-year-old Deiondre Brock. Authorities are still collecting information, but Sheriff Pohlmann says the victim had not met Brock before today …

Cut 11 (09) “…on social media.” 

After authorities responded to the victim’s report, they identified the vehicle and attempted to stop Brock unsuccessfully several times. A pursuit ended in a three-vehicle crash in New Orleans on the Claiborne Ave Bridge. Pohlmann says deputies approached the vehicle on the bridge…

Cut 12 (10) “…to the head.” 

Brock died at the scene.

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A statewide search is underway for this year’s Longest Married Couple in Louisiana award. Louisiana Family Forum President Gene Mills says he wants to showcase couples who’ve been married 70 years or more.

Cut 13 (12) “..and family.”

Ira and Margery Milan of New Orleans won the title in 2023 as they’ve been married for 81 years.

Mills says every year the stories behind the winner’s longevity provide some truths that people need to learn.

Cut 14 (11) “..be told.” 

Mills says they get a lot of entries and every year the contest is highly competitive.

Since the forum began the Marriage Hall of Fame, one of the longest-married couples honored in Louisiana was 86 years.  Mills says in addition to being featured in the Hall of Fame the top ten nominees also receive prizes.

Cut 15 (12) “…of Louisiana.”

To nominate yourself, or a loved one, visit the Family Forum’s website to submit your story. The deadline for nominations is February 7th.

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Cut 16 (13) “..under his leadership.” 

Cut 17 (14) “…my life.” 

Cut 18 (18)  “…under his leadership.” 

Cut 19 (26) “…he’s played.” 

Cut 20 (10) “…fracture.”

Talk of Louisiana changing from an open-party primary election to a closed one is being met with controversy. Some believe because politically unaffiliated voters wouldn’t be allowed to vote in a primary they aren’t represented.  But a longtime political advisor to Governor Jeff Landry, Brent Littlefield says otherwise…

Cut 8 (11) “…presidential election.” 

Legislation to change to a closed-party primary could be introduced at next week’s special session.

Parts of Northwest Louisiana may have noticed the earth move this morning. An earthquake with a magnitude of 2.8 centered near Hall Summit in Red River Parish struck just before 9:00. While not a very large one. Some area residents took to social media to comment on their homes shaking as a result.

There’s a crawfish crisis ongoing because of last year’s drought. LSU Ag Center crawfish specialist Mark Shirley is predicting this could be the worst season ever. Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says he’s spoken to a few farmers who have pressed pause on fishing…

Cut 9 (09) “…one or two sacks.” 

Strain says they’ll have a better idea in three weeks on how bad the season could be.

Nick Saban is heading into retirement after winning seven national championships, six of them at Alabama and one at LSU in 2003. Former LSU quarterback Marcus Randall played for Saban and there’s a reason why he’s considered the greatest college football coach of all time.

Cut 3 (11) “…he’s been.”

Alabama coach Nick Saban is retiring. Marcus Randall who was Saban’s starting quarterback at LSU says if the legendary coach had stayed in Baton Rouge instead of going to the NFL, the Tigers would have had a football dynasty…

Cut 4 (08) “..a winner.”

Saban won seven national championships in his collegiate coaching career, and one of those was at LSU.

Sports betting has been legal in Louisiana for just over 2 years and has had a relatively smooth implementation. Louisiana Gaming Control Board Chairman Ronnie Johns says, In the 2-year period around Five Billion Dollars in Bets have been placed and that means revenue for the Bayou State…

Cut 24 (10) “…tax revenue mark.”

Talk of Louisiana changing from an open-party primary election to a closed one is being met with controversy. Some believe politically unaffiliated voters wouldn’t be allowed to vote in a primary and thus not represented.  But a longtime political advisor to Governor Jeff Landry, Brent Littlefield says otherwise…

Cut 8 (11) “…presidential election.” 

Legislation to change to a closed-party primary could be introduced at next week’s special session.

LSU Ag Center crawfish specialist Mark Shirley is predicting this could be the worst mudbug season ever after the drought. Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says he’s spoken to a few farmers who have pressed pause on fishing…

Cut 9 (09) “…one or two sacks.” 

Strain says the next few weeks will tell us just how bad the season will be.