As many of us return to work today, it’s still pretty cold for those of us here in the Bayou State. But State Climatologist Barry Keim says high temperatures will be getting a bit warmer…:

CUT 10(12)      “…50s to the south.”

He says all this cold air will begin to move on by Thursday.

As we approach the beginning of 2023 – a big election year for Louisiana – many wonder what Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser’s plans may be. Will he run for governor? Or seek re-election to his current position? Nungesser tells LRN he’s been very encouraged by the numbers asking him to seek the top job…:

CUT 07(06)      “…make up my mind.”

If he runs for governor and does not win, he is all done as Lt. Governor.

Once again this year, Louisiana will be featured in the annual Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California; which rolls on Monday the 2^nd. The float theme will be “Turning a Corner” and will feature numerous riders, including Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and Franklin Parish native country star Lainey Wilson. Another rider is 22-year-old Pineville native Jordan Fuqua, the reigning Miss Louisiana Association of Fairs & Festivals…:

CUT 04(10)      “…in Pasadena.”

The float will be a representation of a riverboat, with all surfaces made of flowers or other plants; a Rose Parade tradition and rule. Remember the parade is on Monday the day after New Year’s.

…and not this morning’s markets…

A mass shooting early this morning in New Orleans’ Lower 9^th Ward leaves two teens dead and four in the hospital. New Orleans Police says the victims are all between 17 and 19 years of age. Some male and some female. An investigation is underway and NOPD hopes the public will come forward with tips.

A possible unpleasant result of the holiday weekend freeze: big fish kills in Louisiana waterways. More from Brooke Thorington…:

CUT 02(32)      “…Thorington.”

It’s always bad when bed things happen right at the holiday, but for many the holidays themselves can be sad, stressful and depressing. Some believe it’s the most wonderful time of the year, but LSU Health New Orleans Chair of Psychiatry Dr. Rahn Bailey says that’s not the case for others…:

Cut 13  (12)      “…kind of things.”

Bailey says don’t feel guilty about saying no to things like holiday parties or spending time with people who make you feel uncomfortable. And remember, if you feel overwhelmed, call 988 to talk to someone.

Gas prices in the Bayou State are about a quarter cheaper than this time last year. AAA spokesman Nick Chabarria says that’s been happening for about 6 weeks…however, the bitter cold temperatures we’ve experienced could have an impact on refineries…:

CUT 11(07)      “…than last.”

After the several nights of hard freeze conditions, plumbers are in for a busy week ahead. Baton Rouge plumber Tim Bourriage (BOR-ee-ahg) says these long, extended freezes are hard on pipes, indeed…:’

CUT 04  (07)        “…and worse.”

He says, if you discover a leak, quickly turn off your water main, then call a professional.

Gas prices in the Bayou State are about a quarter cheaper than this time last year. AAA spokesman Nick Chabarria says gas prices have been on a downward trend for about the last six weeks…:

CUT 10(08)      “…crude oil prices.”

How this winter storm affects prices from here remains to be seen.

The state Fire Marshal’s office says a deadly mobile home fire last week in Mansfield was likely caused by using a space heater and the electric oven the heat the home.

For some this time of year, holiday depression can be debilitating. Brooke Thorington has more…:

CUT 03(33)      “…Thorington.”

The State Fire Marshal’s office seeks the man who started a fire INSIDE a Walmart store in Hammond on Christmas Eve. That happened at around 6 pm. An employee quickly put the fire out and no one was hurt. Security cameras got good images of the guy, so we should expect to hear his name sometime soon.

Police in New Orleans are investigating a shooting early this morning in the city’s Lower 9^th Ward that left 2 dead and 4 injured. Details are few at this time, but we do know the victims – both live and deceased – ae all between 17 and 19 years of age; some boys, some girls. This is a developing story.

After three nights of temperatures well below freezing, plumbers are expected to be pretty busy this week. Marsanne Golsby talks with one…:

CUT 01  (29)        “…Golsby.”

A East Baton Rouge Parish 4-year-old, who got lost during a Christmas Eve hike and was found later in freezing cold water…had passed away at a local hospital. Hypothermia and exposure are suspected, but an autopsy is scheduled.

A Shreveport family saw their home destroyed by fire early this morning. Firefighters say it started at around 3:15 this morning. Everyone made it out alive, but a family pet may have perished. The home is a total loss…just a day after Christmas.

State Wildlife & Fisheries agents say do not be surprised to see some fairly large fish kills in Louisiana waterways over the coming days. LDWF Director of Marine Fisheries Chris Schieble (SHE-blee) says these often happen when the temperature drops suddenly and the water cools and contracts…:

CUT 07(09)      “…that happen.”

Scheible says often fish that die from getting too cold sink to the bottom first, before floating to the top. He says that’s why it may be a few days before the extent of the fish kill is known. If you spot significant fish kills, please report where to LWDF, at “wlf.louisiana.gov”

Plumbers tell us the extended freeze we had over the weekend was very hard on plumbing.  Marsanne Golsby talked to a plumber.

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby.”

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A possible unpleasant result of the holiday weekend freeze: big fish kills in Louisiana waterways. More from Brooke Thorington…:

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________________________

For some this time of year, holiday depression can be debilitating. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Plumbers say they expect to be getting very busy today because of the extended freeze. Tim Bourriague BOUR-EE-AGH says the long unbroken hours of below-freezing temperatures are hard on plumbing…:

Cut 4 (07)  “…and worse.”

Bourriague owns Tim’s Proficient Plumbing Repair in Baton Rouge. He says if you suspect you’ve got problems, here’s what you do…:

Cut 5 (11) “…incoming line.”

He says if the incoming line doesn’t work then shut it off at the meter, by lifting the lid and using a device to turn it off. Bourriague urges people not to try plumbing repairs unless they already know how because they could cause more damage. And he says the next few days will be challenging for a lot of us…:

Cut 6 (07)  “…to go around 

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State Wildlife & Fisheries agents say do not be surprised to see some fairly large fish kills in Louisiana waterways over the coming days. LDWF Director of Marine Fisheries Chris Schieble (SHE-blee) says these often happen when the temperature drops suddenly and the water cools and contracts…:

Cut 7 (09) “…that happen.”

Scheible says often fish that die from getting too cold sink to the bottom first, before floating to the top. He says that’s why it may be a few days before the extent of the fish kill is known. Coastal species commonly affected by a sudden hard freeze are Sand Seatrout, Red Drum, Black Drum, and Spotted Seatrout. He says some of our most popular plate fish are somewhat tougher when it comes to low temperatures…:

Cut 8 (10)  “…not as hardy.”

The bitter cold of the Christmas weekend should begin to warm up today. Schieble says, because the freeze only lasted a few days the number of fish killed may be somewhat small. He says it may take some time before the impacts that freeze has had on fish is evident…:

Cut 9 (12)  “…if there is any.”

If you spot significant fish kills, please report where to LWDF, at “wlf.louisiana.gov”

__________________________________________

Gas prices in the Bayou State are about a quarter cheaper than this time last year. Triple A spokesman Nick Chabarria says gas prices have been on a downward trend for about the last six weeks.

Cut 10 (08) “…crude oil prices.” 

However, Chabarria says the bitter cold temperatures we’ve experienced could have an impact on refineries.

Cut 11 (07)  “…than last.”

And while the artic weather could force some to delay or even cancel their travels, Chabarria says that could cause some areas of the country to see a drop in demand, but he doesn’t believe it would make a lasting impact on prices.

Cut 12 (07) “…road trips.”

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Holiday depression refers to situational depression that’s often experienced during the holidays when individuals can feel a combination of stress, sadness, and high expectations. And while some believe it’s the most wonderful time of the year LSU Health New Orleans Chair of Psychiatry Dr. Rahn Bailey says that’s not the case for others.

Cut 13 (12) “…kind of things.”

The holidays present extra expectations to attend gatherings and purchase gifts which depending on a person’s situation can be great stressors. Bailey says for those who suffer from depression it’s often worsened when they compare themselves to others who seem to have it all this time of year.

Cut 14 (10)  “…they need.”

If you are suffering from holiday depression Bailey says don’t feel guilty about saying no to things like holiday parties or spending time with people who make you feel uncomfortable. Find activities that bring you joy and spend time with those who bring you enjoyment instead of dread.

Cut 15 (12)  “…holiday season.”

If you feel overwhelmed, you can also speak with a trained counselor by dialing 988 on your phone.

______________________________________________

Entergy is asking its customers to conserve power during this hard freeze event, to head off any further potential power outages. A number of Louisiana cities have already had power blackouts, and crews are working hard to get the power back on. In the meantime, the state’s biggest electricity provider asks we turn off non-essential lights, lower out thermostats and avoid using large appliances.

So when WILL it begin to warm up a bit again? Brooke Thorington asks state Climatologist Barry Keim…:

CUT 02  (29)        “…Thorington.”

The massive $1.7-trillion federal spending bill – with billions more aid for Ukraine and loads of green energy spending – has passed the House and heads for President Biden’s desk. Senator John Kennedy voted no, along with every other Louisiana Republican. His main objection was its effect on inflation…:

CUT 06  (14)        “…much money.”

The bill passed 68-29 in the Senate and 225-201 in the House…meaning a good many Republicans voted for it.

If you have a young person for whom you haven’t yet got a gift, consider an education savings plan, via the state Treasurer’s office. Treasurer John Schroder…:

CUT 03  (07)        “…of your friends”

You can get one started online at “startsaving.la.gov.”

The icy cold temperatures have meant power outages for many parts of our state. SWEPCO has been working to restore power to roughly 12-thousand customers in northwestern Louisiana. DEMCO and Entergy have also been working diligently to restore power to areas. Entergy has sent messages to all customers asking them to conserve strain on the grid by lowering thermostats, shutting off big appliances and turning off non-essential lights to avoid further blackout.

The U.S House has passed that $1.7-trillion federal spending bill, but with only one “yes” vote from Louisiana. That would be New Orleans Democrat Congressman Troy Carter. Everyone else in the House and Senate delegations voted “no”. Senator John Kennedy is angry with the Dems, but also Republicans who did vote for the bill…:

CUT 07(15)      “…enough money.”

With cold weather gripping Louisiana, Commissioner of Agriculture Mike Strain says even though most livestock is more cold-resistant than pets, they still need special care in this weather…:

CUT 12(07)      “…sugar in them.”

He says put a heater in the hen house, if you haven’t already and put horses IN the barn and out of the cold wind.

A Calcasieu Parish woman was arrested after stealing a truck, driving it recklessly and shooting at least two people with a gun she found IN the truck. 28-year-old Allison Miller was eventually caught by Calcasieu deputies and faces a list of charges. Still, no one knows what triggered her violent actions. Relatives say she’d be acting odd and paranoid for a few days; possibly die to drug abuse.

As we wake up to another bitterly cold morning on this Christmas Eve, Entergy sends this message to customers: “Unusually high electricity use due to extreme temperatures may exceed available power supply. Please help by adjusting thermostats and turning off non-essential lights, electronics and large appliance to avoid periodic outrages. We apologize for the inconvenience.”

One of the most anticipated cold fronts of the year has moved through Louisiana and winter has arrived right on cue. State Climatologist Barry Keim says to expect another very cold day for Christmas, albeit a little bit warmer than today. Instead of seeing mercury in the teens in north Louisiana, temps will be in the lower 20’s…:

CUT 10(07)      “..the freeze mark.”

He says a warming will start Monday with daytime highs near 70 by Wednesday.

The Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested a Hessmer man Thursday night after he allegedly stabbed his mother to death. Asked to do a welfare check, Hessmer Police found 56-year-old Lisa Roy Mose dead from multiple stab wounds. An investigation led to the arrest of her son, 27-year-old Daniel McWilliams for 2^nd-degree murder. No bond has been set as yet.

The State Treasurer offers up an outside-the-gift box suggestion that will last much longer than most Christmas gifts…:

CUT 01(30)      “Golsby.”

The U.S. House passes the $1.7-trillion omnibus spending plan that will keep the government up and running. Only one Louisiana congressional delegate, Democrat District 2 Congressman Troy Carter, voted for it. Senator John Kennedy says he opposed the bill because it will lead to more inflation…:

CUT 06  (14)        “…so much money.”

Kennedy is angry with Democrats who brought the bill and with Republicans who voted for it.

We have a cold Christmas Eve ahead, with more temperatures dipping well below freezing again tonight. State Climatologist Barry Keim says it should warm very slightly for Christmas Day. Instead of hitting the teens in northern parishes, it’ll go into the 20’s…:

CUT 10  (07)        “…the freeze mark.”

He says we’ll hit a high around 70 again by Wednesday.

The Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested a Hessmer man Thursday night after he allegedly stabbed his mother to death. Asked to do a welfare check, Hessmer Police found 56-year-old Lisa Roy Mose dead from multiple stab wounds. An investigation led to the arrest of her son, 27-year-old Daniel McWilliams for 2^nd-degree murder. No bond has been set as yet.

With cold weather gripping Louisiana, Commissioner of Agriculture Mike Strain says even though most livestock is more cold-resistant than pets, they still need special care in this weather. He recommends adding heat lamps to chicken coops. And he says it is important to remember that even in very cold weather livestock need to stay hydrated…:

CUT 14(05)      “…can drink.”

Strain says beef cattle, pigs and sheep can withstand pretty cold temperatures, but horses need to be brought inside the barn and even have a lamp to provide some heat.

It’s definitely cold outside but will it warm up any for Christmas? Brooke Thorington has more from State Climatologist Barry Keim…:

CUT 02(29)      “…Thorington.”

Sure we talk about keeping the pets safe in such cold, but what about livestock? Ag Commissioner Mike Strain, a large animal vet, says – if you have horses – get them in the barn…:

CUT 13(07)      “…get too hot.”

And make sure they have plenty of food and water.

The U.S. House has passed the $1.7-trillion omnibus spending bill. You know? The one Senator Bill Cassidy and John Kennedy said they would not vote for? Kennedy says there are just too many members of Congress that have no qualms about overspending…:

CUT 08(11)      “…get the money.”

The bill passed mostly along party lines in House – 225-201. It now heads to the President for his signature.

Want to give a youngster a gift that gives for years to come? How about an education savings plan? State Treasurer John Schroder says the state will match up to 14-percent of what you put in…:

CUT 03(07)      “…friend of your friends.”

Go to “startsavingla.gov” to get started.