Governor Jeff Landry has announced a landmark $10 billion investment to build the world’s largest Meta Data Center in North Louisiana, marking the largest private investment in the state’s history. This 4-million-square-foot facility, to be in Richland Parish near Rayville, Landry says it’s expected to create thousands of jobs and span over 2,000 acres.

Cut 12 (10) “…technology and innovation.”

Outgoing Louisiana Congressman Garret Graves’ name has surfaced as a possible choice to lead the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Graves says he has spoken to Donald Trump’s transition team about various positions with the new administration, but FEMA director is not one he’s excited about…

Cut 3 (08) “…that position.”

Central Intermediate School’s assembly transformed into a milestone celebration as Ashley Davis, a fourth-grade math teacher, was awarded the 3,000th Milken Educator Award. Founder Lowell Milken presented Davis with the prestigious honor and an unrestricted $25,000 cash prize, praising her dedication to raising academic achievement and fostering a love for learning.

Cut 9 (08)  “…wait what?”

It’s national signing day and LSU has signed the top two running backs in the state. Zach Nagy, the publisher of LSU Tigers on S-I, says the top one is Harlem Berry from St. Martin’s High School in Metairie.  The number-two running back in the state – J.T. Lindsey from Alexandria Senior High School, who he says has blossomed in his senior season.

Cut 7 (11) “…for that program.”

Four years ago, in the wake of an explosive investigative report by USA Today, LSU promised to make improvements to its Title Nine office.  Piper Hutchinson is investigating the Illuminator notes that universities in general, not just LSU, receive a fair number of Title Nine complaints. Among the complaints at LSU is one in which a professor allegedly covered up sexual assault allegations against a graduate assistant.

Cut 4 (11) “…to these abuses.”

Former Catholic priest and admitted serial child molester, pleaded guilty to kidnapping and raping a boy in the 1970s.  93-year-old Lawrence Hecker’s plea is a rare conviction linked to the Catholic Church’s long-standing abuse scandal. Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams says Hecker plead guilty to every count…

Cut 9 (05)  “…to a life sentence.”

The Maurepas Swamp Project in St. John the Baptist Parish breaks ground on a freshwater divergence that will reconnect the Mississippi River to Maurepas Swamp.  Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana Communication Director James Karst says River reintroduction involves redirecting fresh water and sediments from the Mississippi River into the swamp via engineered channels aiming to counteract decades of wetland loss and create a healthier environment for native species.

Cut 7 (11) “…very long time.”

Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge, has released its annual list of the most popular baby names for 2024.   Vice President of Marketing and Communications Laurel Burgos says leading the list for boys is a name that’s been very popular for the last few years…

Cut 13 (05)  “…top of the boys list.”

Four years ago, in the wake of an explosive investigative report by USA Today, LSU promised to make improvements to its Title Nine office. However, a new report by the Louisiana Illuminator says there’s been little to no progress. Piper Hutchinson is conducting the investigation for the Illuminator in conjunction with Tiger Rag Magazine. She says employees within the office are alleging a hostile work environment, which is causing a slowdown in Title Nine complaints.

Cut 3 (11) “…office right now.”

Today the state is breaking ground on the Maurepas Swamp Project in St. John the Baptist Parish.  A freshwater divergence that will reconnect the Mississippi River to Maurepas Swamp.   Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana Communication Director James Karst says CRCL is also working in conjunction with the state…

Cut 6 (09) “…in the swamp.”

LSU football has lost a five-star commitment on the eve of national signing day. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (33) “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

With the legislature passing a comprehensive tax reform package, some aspects will require voter approval, and that will happen in March. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (33)“…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Holidays should be a time for joy and happiness, but for many it’s a difficult time marked by stress, loneliness, and depression. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (35) “…Sean Richardson.”

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The Ragin Cajuns are gearing up to host the Sun Belt Championship game on Saturday night. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Some aspects of the tax reform package passed by the legislature will need voter approval, and that election is slated for March 29th. Steven Procopio, the president of the Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana, says citizens will vote on what is essentially a complete rewrite of Article 7 of the state constitution – the tax and spending section.

Cut 4 (10) “…rainy day fund.”

Procopio says the rewritten article also includes options for local governments.

Cut 5 (09) “…effects of that.” 

Procopio says PAR will release a voter guide on the amendment vote, but it will take a couple months to sift through everything contained in the proposal.

Cut 6 (11) “…all the details.”

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The holiday season can be a difficult time for many, marked by stress, loneliness, and depression. Common triggers include societal expectations of cheerfulness, financial pressures, unrealistic ideals, grief, and seasonal affective disorder. LSU Medical Center Trauma Psychologist Sandy Hyatt says these factors can magnify feelings of inadequacy and sadness, making the holidays challenging.

Cut 7 (08) “…much time with.”

Strategies to combat holiday-related sadness include setting realistic expectations and embracing imperfections to focus on connection rather than perfection. Hyatt says seeking social connections, expressing emotions through journaling or conversations, and setting boundaries to avoid over-commitment are also effective.

Cut 8 (08) “…isolated and low.”

Hyatt says embracing mindfulness, gratitude, and the acceptance of emotions, including tears, can foster resilience and hope. By prioritizing mental health and redefining the holidays on personal terms, individuals can find joy and connection beyond the season.

Cut 9 (15)  “…this time of year.”

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Today is Giving Tuesday in Louisiana, encouraging residents across the state to support charitable causes and engage in acts of generosity. Taking place on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, United Way Southeast Louisiana CEO Michael Williamson says it provides an opportunity for individuals, businesses, and organizations to unite in addressing community needs and driving positive change.

Cut 10 (15) “…make that happen.”

In Louisiana, the day often highlights the unique culture, challenges, and spirit of its communities. Nonprofits, schools, and faith-based organizations across the state participate by organizing fundraisers, volunteer events, and awareness campaigns. Williamson says donating one dollar can have a 14-dollar impact on our communities.

Cut 11 (16) “…14-dollar impact.”

Coming off Black Friday and Cyber Monday, William says it’s been amazing to see how much Giving Tuesday has grown over the years and having a day where people are grateful and willing to give…

Cut 12 (14) “…helps accomplish that.”

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Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge, has released its annual list of the most popular baby names for 2024.   Vice President of Marketing and Communications Laurel Burgos says leading the list for boys is a name that’s been very popular for the last few years…

Cut 13 (05)  “…top of the boys list.”    (Noah is number one for boys, followed by Liam, Henry and John.)

For girls, Amelia was the most popular name at Woman’s Hospital, while Charlotte and Olivia landed at the second and third spots.

While many names are more traditional, Burgos says some more modern trendy names made it on the list.

Cut 14 (09) “…more trendy.”

Woman’s Hospital is the largest single delivery service in Louisiana.

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The worst fears regarding Saints utility man Taysom Hill’s knee injury are confirmed. He has a torn ACL and will miss the rest of the season. Hill was carted off the field in Sunday’s loss to the Rams. Interim head coach Darren Rizzi says you can’t replace Hill’s versatility…

Cut 15 (13) “…step up.”

Hill is the Saints second leading rusher. But a young running back could be available to play this Sunday against the Giants. Second year back Kendre Miller could be removed from injured reserve. The 22-year-old is trying to come back from a second hamstring injury. He also had an injury plagued rookie season. Rizzi says he wants to give Miller a shot…

Cut 16 (16) “…staying healthy.”

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Redshirt senior Chandler Fields will make his third start at quarterback this Saturday when U-L Lafayette hosts Marshall on Saturday night in the Sun Belt Championship game. Fields has played well for the injured Ben Woolridge and Coach Michael Desormeaux is not surprised…

Cut 17 (15) “…his today.” 

Desormeaux is leading his alma mater to the conference championship in his third season as head coach. His first two seasons were six and seven campaigns, but knew it would eventually come together…

Cut 18 (18)   “…for those things.”

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Southern will battle Jackson State in the SWAC title game on Saturday afternoon in Jackson, Mississippi. The Jaguars leaned on their defense to win the western division title with a seven and one record and that side of the football will need to be at its best for them to beat the Tigers. Coach Terrance Graves…

Cut 19 (12) “…take the ball away.”  

Southern’s defense is led by Ckelby Givens, who leads the F-C-S in tackles for a loss and he’s eighth in the nation in sacks. Graves says Givens has put in the work to become a great player…

Cut 20 (17) “…co-defensive player of the year.”

Grambling State linebacker Andrew Jones is the other SWAC co-defensive player of the year. Jones led the conference in tackles with 122.

New Orleans endured a weekend of intense gun violence, with eight shootings in less than 12 hours, leaving three adults and a 3-year-old child dead, and nine others injured.  One of the victims included a 15-year-old shot on Bourbon Street, and another wounded on Canal Street.  NOPD Captain Lejon Roberts says the two shootings could be related.

Cut 4 (15) “…on Canal Street.”

Monroe-area Congresswoman Julia Letlow is added to the powerful House Republican Steering Committee that is tasked with selecting charis for all standing committies and deciding on strategizes for the Republican caucus.  House Speaker Mike Johnson and Majority Leader Steve Scalise are also on the Republican Steering Committee, giving Louisiana 18-percent of the voting block. Letlow says she can’t wait to get to work for the people of Louisiana in the new Congress.

Cut 8 (13) “…40% of Boomers.”

Despite three consecutive losing seasons, Louisiana Tech is bringing back football coach Sonny Cumbie for a fourth season. The Bulldogs went 5-and-7 this season, but 97.7 in Ruston Sports Director Sean Fox says an upset win over Western Kentucky and shutout victory over Kennesaw State likely saved Cumbie’s job…

Cut 9 (07)  “…the season.”

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, marked by record-breaking activity, not quite aligned with NOAA’s predictions of an above-average season. The forecast anticipated 17–25 named storms, 8–13 hurricanes, and 4–7 major hurricanes, driven by record-warm sea surface temperatures and a La Niña atmosphere, according to LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim.

Cut 12 (11)…all that was anticipated.”

As you get your Christmas shopping underway for this year, don’t forget about your small businesses. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (27) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

On Thanksgiving Day, Louisiana State Police pursued a vehicle linked to theft on I-10 near Iowa, Louisiana. The driver, 27-year-old Shanan McCoy Jr. fled after striking a police vehicle but was arrested. A search revealed stolen electronics and burglary tools. McCoy faces multiple charges, and investigations to identify his passengers continue. LSP is asking anyone with information related to the case to contact LSP.

This holiday season brings unique challenges for shoppers and retailers. Despite inflation and economic uncertainties, the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Deloitte predict holiday spending increases of 3 percent and 8 percent, compared to last year. LSU marketing professor Dan Rice emphasizes trends shaping 2024’s holiday shopping, including online purchasing growth, early-season sales, and the gift of visiting loved ones.

Cut 4 (11) “…a consumer good.”

Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain encourages residents to consider getting a Louisiana-grown live Christmas tree this holiday season. Strain says you can find the names and locations of local Christmas tree farms around the state online…

Cut 13 (08)  “…association website”

Today may be Black Friday, but tomorrow is Small Business Saturday.  Leah Long, the state director of the National Federation of Independent Business, says the holiday season is something that small business owners look forward to every year.

Cut 8 (09) “…kind of thing.”

This holiday season brings unique challenges for shoppers and retailers.  The balance between online and in-store shopping continues to blur, with convenience and accessibility determining consumer choices. LSU marketing professor Dan Rice says retailers are focusing on seamless shopping experiences using technology like AI and data analytics to attract and retain customers.

Cut 6 (07) “…of sales”

Attorney Liz Murrill is advising shoppers to be vigilant on the busiest shopping day of the year, and also reminds Louisianans to beware of scams during the holiday season…

Cut 11 (12) “…and appliances.”

Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain encourages residents to consider getting a Louisiana-grown live Christmas tree this holiday season. He says going to a tree farm is more than just buying a tree…

Cut 12 (12) “…absolutely incredible.”

It’s the busiest travel day of the year. Our own Andrew Greenstein is at Louis Armstrong International Airport in New Orleans…

Cut 1 (27) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

Law enforcement has a warning for you as you hit the road for your Thanksgiving travels – wear your seatbelt, or else. The nationwide “Click It Or Ticket” enforcement period started last weekend and runs through Sunday. Greg Fischer with the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission says there are more officers on the road, and they’re specifically looking for people not wearing their seatbelts.

Cut 18 (12)  “…for traffic enforcement.”

This holiday season, many Americans are tightening their budgets as they face lingering inflation and elevated costs for goods compared to pre-pandemic levels.  Bankrate Analyst Ted Rossman says despite higher costs this weekend will see a lot of shoppers.

Cut 6 (15) “…it is still growth.”

The National Federation of Independent Business says the legislation approved in the tax reform special session will help small businesses drive economic growth and create jobs. NFIB State Director Leah Long says small business owners are grateful the Legislature chose not to expand sales on services that are currently not taxed.

Cut 11 (11) “…economy with inflation.”

It’s the busiest travel day of the year. Our own Andrew Greenstein is at Louis Armstrong International Airport in New Orleans…

Cut 1 (27) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Small businesses support what lawmakers did in the tax reform special session.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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It’s warm today, but a cold front will move through the state during the overnight hours and into tomorrow morning, bringing fall like weather to the Bayou State. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says the front will also bring us a little bit of rain, but the chilly temperatures through the weekend and into early next week is the big story

Cut 3 (09) “…cooler temperatures.”

Keim says if your Thanksgiving includes outdoor plans, make sure you dress appropriately…

Cut 4 (10) “…mild day.”

There are quarterfinal high school football games on Friday night and three outdoor college football games in the state on Saturday. Keim says you don’t have to worry about rain, but dress warm…

Cut 5 (09) “…out there.”

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This holiday season, many Americans are tightening their budgets as they face lingering inflation and elevated costs for goods compared to pre-pandemic levels.  Bankrate Analyst Ted Rossman says despite higher costs this weekend will see a lot of shoppers.

Cut 6 (15) “…it is still growth.”

In 2023, 54-percent of U.S. adults made at least one impulse purchase during the holidays.  Rossman says it’s an important weekend for retailers around the country this year too.

Cut 7 (08) “…Small Business Saturday.”

Rossman says one surprise was younger generations, particularly Gen Z and Millennials compared to older shoppers and where they are shopping.

Cut 8 (13) “…40% of Boomers.”

Cyber Monday is expected to be the most popular Thanksgiving weekend shopping event.

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The National Federation of Independent Business says the legislation approved in the tax reform special session will help small businesses drive economic growth and create jobs. NFIB State Director Leah Long says Governor Jeff and legislative leaders passed tax reforms that provide critical support to small businesses….

Cut 9 (09)  “…here in Louisiana.”

Long says a flat 3% individual income tax rate, a flat 5.5 percent corporate income tax rate and the elimination of the franchise tax will help small businesses.

Cut 10 (10) “…file that way.”

Key provisions preserved include the inventory tax credit for unincorporated businesses ensuring cash flow, and vendor compensation for timely sales tax payments, capped at $750 per month. Long says small business owners are grateful the Legislature chose not expand sales on services that are currently not taxed.

Cut 11 (11) “…economy with inflation.”

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If you’re flying today, you’re by no means alone. Today is the busiest travel day of the year. As such, it may be a little wait to get through TSA screening. At Louis Armstrong International Airport in New Orleans, this woman said the airport has greatly improved the screening process.

Cut 12 (06) “…this time.”

This man said getting through security was pretty easy, but it was something else that he says needs a little better organization.

Cut 13 (06)  “…rental cars.”