Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt announces she’s running for governor. Jeff Palermo has more on her candidacy…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The lineup for Jazz Fest is out, and organizers say this year they are back in their full glory. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Add another name to the list of candidates who are running for governor. Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt made her candidacy official today. The Republican has served in the state senate since 2016 and she’s also an engineering executive…

Cut 3 (08) “…and results” 

She is the chairwoman of the Senate Governmental Affairs Committee and led the Senate GOP’s redistricting efforts last year.

If elected Hewitt would be the state’s first woman Republican governor. The 64-year-old says she one of the first female executives at Shell Oil as she oversaw Shell’s central deepwater assets in the Gulf

Cut 4 (09)  “…our state.” 

Hewitt has been married for 40 years and helped raised two sons and she’s a grandmother. Hewitt says she’ll put her business experience to work growing the economy, cutting taxes and creating more opportunity across Louisiana….

Cut 5 (13) “…in Louisiana.”

Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry, GOP State Treasurer John Schroder and Lake Charles Hunter Lundy are also running. Lundy will listed on the ballot as an Independent.

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Kumho (Coo-moe) Tires announces plans to construct a 350-thousand-square-foot warehouse and future plans for a distribution center in Franklin. Brandy Christian President of the Port of New Orleans says it’s a significant multi-million-dollar investment in St. Mary Parish

Cut 6 (12)  “…as well.” 

Kumho Tires manufactures 17-inch passenger and light truck tires.

Christian says it’s also significant for the public-private partnership with the Port of New Orleans to establish a $1.8 billion container facility, further growing Louisiana’s import and export capacity.

Cut 7 (11)  “…and manufacturing.” 

The state-of-the-art facility will have the annual capacity to manufacture five million tires annually. Christian says they are excited to see Kumho Tires’ commitment to the region and it’s indicative of the future growth of the Port of New Orleans.

Cut 8 (11)  “..the Midwest.” 

The tire distribution center is expected to create upward of 200 full-time jobs.

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The lineup for the 2023 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival was unveiled this morning. Festival producer Quint Davis says the headliners run the gamut in musical genres.

Cut 9 (10) “…it’s for everybody.” 

The pandemic forced the festival to postpone and then eventually canceled in 2020 and 2021. Davis says last year was an abbreviate comeback festival but this 2023 festival is reminiscent of those before COVID and it’s about darn time.

Cut 10 (11) “…put them on.” 

Davis says Ed Sheeran is kicking off his American tour at Jazz Fest the first weekend, and Dead & Company, who isn’t on tour will perform the second weekend.

The annual event is held at the Fairgrounds and Racecourse, which Davis says while it’s one of the biggest race tracks in the country it’s easy to navigate and you can catch all your favorite acts.

Cut 11 (11)  “…on time (x2).”

The festival kicks off on April 28^th and runs through May 7th. For tickets and the full line-up visit NOjazzfest.com

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Seimone Augustus is considered the greatest women’s basketball player from Louisiana and on Sunday LSU will unveil a statue of the former All-American. It will be located near the Maravich Center. Lady Tigers Coach Kim Mulkey says Augustus is very deserving of the statue

Cut 12 (12) “…Olympics”

Augustus scored 27-hundred points at LSU, led the Lady Tigers to three Final Fours, won four W-N-B-A titles and won three gold medals for the U-S Olympic team. Mulkey says Augustus was a great shooter…

Cut 13 (12) “…jump shot” 

Augustus’ statue will be located next to the statues other LSU basketball legends, Shaquille O’ Neal, Pete Maravich and Bob Petit. Augustus is the first statue on LSU’s campus of a female-student athlete. Mulkey pushed for it…

Cut 14 (07)   “…for Louisiana”

Independent Lake Charles attorney Hunter Lundy makes his candidacy for Governor this fall official. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Freshman quarterback Walker Howard has reportedly entered the transfer portal after just one season at LSU. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Niagara Bottling announced its plans to invest $160 million in a state-of-the-art production facility near Hammond. The company – headquartered in Diamond Bar, California – operates more than 40 production facilities with over 7,000 employees worldwide. Tangipahoa Parish president Robby Miller, says this is a great company to work for.

Cut 3 (10) “…good operation” 

The new facility will have highly automated technology used to increase production efficiency, allowing the company to meet high demands. Miller says the new development will be advanced.

Cut 4 (12)  “…really excited.” 

The Company expects to begin construction on the 500,000-square-foot facility 6 months into the year. Miller says work on the facility has begun. 

Cut 5 (12) “…not mistaken.”

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Amid talk of who is and is not running for governor this fall, the first person who officially declared candidacy is Lake Charles attorney Hunter Lundy. Lundy is an independent, who says the fact that he is not aligned with either big political party makes him the best choice for voters…:

Cut 6 (10)  “…sides of the aisle.” 

Lundy says, if elected, he’d work to ease poverty and hunger in Louisiana and take steps to reduce recidivism among prison inmates. He says he’ll be open to proposed legislation, with no prejudices as to party affiliation…:

Cut 7 (08)  “…gonna go with it.” 

Lundy has a campaign ad and video that are about to start airing on television and social media that lays out his campaign philosophy. Lundy says, after years in the courtroom, he’s ready to look toward the Capitol and the Governor’s Mansion…:

Cut 8 (11)  “..that’s what I’m doing.” 

Find more information on the candidate at “lundyforlouisiana.com”

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The Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office arrest a Gray teen in connection with a social media threat that he was attempting to acquire a gun and bring it to HL Bourgeois High School Thursday. Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Blake Tabor says they received an anonymous tip Wednesday afternoon and soon after took him into custody.

Cut 9 (11) “…of terrorizing.” 

Tabor says the patrol division quickly identified who sent the message and the suspect is being held without bond at the Terrebonne Parish Juvenile Justice Complex.

Cut 10 (10) “…nor should we.” 

The juvenile’s name and age has not been revealed, and the Tabor says more information will be released once it’s available. He says the investigation is ongoing.

Cut 11 (05)  “…from happening.”

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Freshman LSU quarterback Walker Howard has reportedly entered the transfer portal. Tiger Rag Assistant Editor William Weathers says Howard was third string on the depth chart behind starter Jayden Daniels and back-up Garrett Nussmeier…

Cut 12 (09) “…number two guy”

The Lafayette native guided St. Thomas More to a state championship in 2020 and this past season appeared in two games for the Tigers. His father, Jamie Howard, played for the Tigers in the 1990s and his late mother was also an LSU graduate. Weathers says it’s hard for Tiger fans to see Walker leave after one season…

Cut 13 (09) “…he could do.” 

Weathers says when starting QB Jayden Daniels announced he would  return for his senior season, it delayed Howard’s opportunity at getting serious playing time…

Cut 14 (09)   “…little quicker.”

Today marks the seven-year anniversary of Medicaid expansion in Louisiana, Whitney Thomas reports what this means for the state.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Whitney Thomas.”

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The newest strain of COVID, XBB.1.5. (XBB-dot-1-dot-5) is said to be the most transmissible variant yet. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The National Federation of Independent Business says small business optimism for the near-future has dropped again, for a 12^th straight month. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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On January 12th, 2016, Governor John Bel Edwards signed an executive order expanding Medicaid. The governor’s communications director Lauren Leist that the decision seven years ago provided health insurance to over half a million working Louisianans…

Cut 4 (12)  “…for hypertension.”

Leist says more than 180 thousand residents received specialized mental health treatment as a result of the Medicaid expansion. She says an expanded Medicaid program played a critical role in the state’s battle against COVID…

Cut 5 (11) “…from covid.”

Before Governor. Edwards took office Louisiana’s uninsured rate among adults was nearly 23 percent, it’s now down to nine percent. Leist says the decision to expand the Medicaid program also benefited taxpayers…

Cut 6 (10)  “…at home.” 

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The newest strain of COVID, XBB.1.5. (XBB-dot-1-dot-5) is rapidly growing in the US, health experts say nationally the variant accounts for 30 percent of cases. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says currently it only accounts for about 18 percent of cases in Louisiana.

Cut 7 (11) “…would imagine.”

Kanter says the World Health Organization believes this to be the most transmissible variant yet, which he says is to be expected. He also says holiday gatherings are responsible for the uptick in cases.

Cut 8 (10)  “…available to us.”

Protections in the form of previous COVID infection antibodies, vaccines, boosters, and oral therapeutics.

The XBB.1.5 variant is expected to become the most dominant version in the next few weeks. Kanter says fortunately it’s not increasing hospitalizations at this point, but he does expect to see an increase in cases the closer we get to Mardi Gras.

Cut 9 (11)  “…with earlier.”

Kanter says about 95 percent of those in Louisiana have either been vaccinated, had COVID, or both.

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Optimism for the near-future continues to drop among Louisiana’s small businesses. The National Federation of Independent Business regularly canvasses members for its Optimism Index, and NFIB State Director Dawn McVea says the survey posted a 12^th straight month of member businesses who feel the next 3-to-6 months will be rough…:

Cut 10 (07)  “…growing their business.”

51-percent of NFIB member businesses say their outlook for the next six months has gotten worse. McVea says a large number say inflation is still their biggest obstacle in meeting costs and eking out a profit…:

Cut 11 (11)  “…is not great.”

41 percent of members report continued trouble filling job openings. 43-percent report they’re unable to raise prices to offset costs; an all-time high. Also, fewer members expect their sales to improve in the near future. McVea says many are looking to their legislators for policy changes that may help them prosper…:

Cut 12 (13) “…from all of this.”

McVea says almost certainly, some Louisiana businesses will be forced to close their doors unless the economy improves.

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The Louisiana Department of Transportation announces plans to repair the Interstate 10 eastbound overpass at I-49 in Lafayette after a truck driving under the overpass caused extensive damage to three out of the eight grinders on the eastbound bridge. DOTD spokesperson, Deidra Druilhet says the repairs will come in two phases, with the first phase taking place a week from Friday…

Cut 13 (14)  “…on I-10.”

Currently, one lane is open on I-10 eastbound at Evangeline Thruway. Druilhet says the first phase of work is expected to be completed between January 20th and 22nd.

Cut 14 (14)  “…at time.”

Phase two of the project includes the removal of necessary bridge components and installing newly constructed grinders and a bridge deck.

After all of the pieces are secured and in place, a concrete closure pour will be performed to tie in all new components to the existing bridge overpass.  Druihet says phase two will not take place until after Mardi Gras…

Cut 15 (13)  “…all finished up.”

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The Warhawks hosts the Ragin Cajuns tonight on the hardwood and it’s the 2,000th game in the ULM men’s basketball program history. Coach Keith Richard says it’s appropriate to play a milestone game against their big in-state rival…

Cut  16 (10)  “…milestone night.” 

The Cajuns enter the game 12-4 overall, 2-and-2 in the Sun Belt. Coach Bob Marlin’s team lost their first two conference games on the road, but returned to the Cajundome and picked up a couple of wins. Marlin wants to keep the positive momentum going…

Cut 17 (15) “…simple game.” 

ULM is 7-and-10 overall, but off to a 3-and-1 in the Sun Belt. Richard says the team has found its identity…

Cut 18 (18) “…a good game.” 

Tip-off is at 6:30 at Fant-Ewing Coliseum.

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The fifth-ranked LSU Lady Tigers look to improve to 17-0 when they visit Missouri tonight in Columbia. In every game this season, player-of-the-year candidate and six-foot-three sophomore Angel Reese has recorded a double-double. LSU Coach Kim Mulkey says Reese brings more than just points and rebounds to the team…

Cut 19 (14) “…more years.”

Missouri is 14-and-3, 3-and-1 in the SEC. Mulkey says Mizzou is a good shooting team…

Cut 20 (14)  “…the floor.” 

Tip-off is at 6 PM.

Congressman Garret Graves says he’s still looking at running for governor and plans to give it more consideration now that a Speaker of the House has been chosen. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

A federal judge sentences former state senator Karen Carter Peterson to nearly two years in prison on a wire fraud charge. Whitney Thomas more…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Whitney Thomas”

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says he’ll make a decision very soon on the governor’s race. Graves was on Mornings with Brian Haldane today and says he’s gotten plenty of encouragement to seek the state’s highest office.

Cut 3 (14) “…from folks” 

With only two major candidates in the race so far, Republicans, Attorney General Jeff Landry and Treasurer John Schroder, Graves says he’s received feedback that more names need to be added to the ballot.

Cut 4 (08)  “…extraordinary.” 

Graves says now that the Speaker of the House vote is settled he expects to meet with supporters and family members over the next few days and make a decision on the governor’s race.

Cut 5 (11) “…for Louisiana.”

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The national average price for a dozen eggs hit $3.59 in November, up nearly 50 percent from the previous year, and the price for eggs still remains at a historical high. Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says a bird flu outbreak is the main reason why eggs are still expensive…

Cut 6 (07)  “…egg laying chickens” 

Strain says the egg industry is also dealing with supply chain issues and increased costs for production…

Cut 7 (10)  “  packaging costs” 

Strain says we will not see egg prices drop significantly until energy, fertilizer and transportation costs decrease. He says producers are also working to increase production…

Cut 8 (08)  “..these prices” 

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Dakota Theriot plead guilty today to killing three people in Livingston Parish and two in Ascension Parish after a multi-parish shooting spree in 2019. Among his victims were his girlfriend, her father, her brother, and his parents. 21^st Judicial District Attorney Scott Perilloux says Theriot’s history of mental illness and the pandemic delayed his trial.

Cut 9 (11) “…entered into.” 

Perilloux says the five murders were unspeakably tragic and extremely unordinary for the two parishes.

Cut 10 (10) “…take in.” 

Theriot will be transferred to Angola to serve multiple life sentences. Because of his history of mental illness, Perilloux was asked if Theriot will be placed in the general population at the state prison.

Cut 11 (03)  “…going to happen.”

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Former state senator Karen Carter Peterson received a 22-month prison sentence today after admitting she used more than 140-thousand dollars in campaign funds from her own campaign and the Democratic Party to feed a gambling addiction. Loyola Law Professor Dane Ciolino says the federal sentencing guideline called for a sentence between 41 and 51 months

Cut 12 (07) “…applicable guidelines”

Peterson’s attorneys pushed U-S District Judge Sarah Vance to sentence the former lawmaker to probation or home confinement. They touted her Christian faith, admission of guilt and the treatment she’s receiving for her gambling addiction. Ciolino says Peterson’s punishment could have been more serve…

Cut 13 (05) “…get.” 

Judge Vance has ordered Peterson to report to jail on March 6th. Ciolino says Peterson will spend at least a year and a half in prison…

Cut 14 (12)   “…she gets out .”

Peterson abruptly resigned from the state senate last year, citing depression and a gambling addiction. She served in the state legislature from 1999 to 2022 and as chair of the Louisiana Democratic party from 2012 to 2020.

The state Coastal Protection & Restoration Authority releases its updated Coastal Master Plan for fighting erosion and wetlands loss. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The state launches a hotline to report suspected juvenile sex trafficking. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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So far this year we’ve learned that Senator John Kennedy and Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser aren’t running for governor and Treasurer John Schroder is. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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An autism indicator is now available on Louisiana identification cards. Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles spokesperson Matthew Boudreaux says the indicator was added to drivers’ licenses in December 2021 and now it’s an option on ID cards. He says it was added as a public safety measure for law enforcement.

Cut 4 (06)  “…other people.”

Boudreaux says the word Autism will appear below the photograph and a puzzle piece will be next to the word Louisiana on the ID.

Cut 5 (09) “…indicate that.”

To have the indicator added to your driver’s license or ID card Boudreaux says a Medical Examiner’s Certification of Autism Spectrum Disorder form must be completed, along with a statement from a qualified mental health professional.

Cut 6 (11)  “… identification card.” 

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Available now online, is Louisiana’s 2023 Coastal Master Plan. The plan is a roadmap for combating the state’s ongoing erosion, land loss, and flood risk problem. Ben Haase is executive director of the state’s Coastal Protection & Restoration Authority (CPRA). He says the master plan is updated every six years, to incorporate changes in technology, costs, and logistics…:

Cut 7 (11) “…50 years from now.”

The plan can be viewed online at “coastal.la.gov.” Haase says the Coastal Master Plan has been in existence since 2007 and has been responsible for a lot of progress in fighting coastal land loss…:

Cut 8 (12)  “…by this document.”

The 2023 update of CPRA’s plan includes a new project selection process, improved predictive models, new risk metrics, and other improvements. Haase says you are welcome to go online and read the plan, and your feedback is welcomed. He says the plan encompasses literally ALL of Louisiana’s coastal areas…:

Cut 9 (10)  “…portion of our coast.”

Public hearings on the Coastal Master Plan are scheduled for late January through mid-February in Baton Rouge, Houma, New Orleans, and Lake Charles, before submitting the plan to state lawmakers.

____________________________________________

In 2021 there were 607 confirmed or suspected juvenile victims of human trafficking in Louisiana. On January 1^st, the state launched a hotline for reporting human trafficking. Christy Tate, a child welfare manager with the Department of Children and Family Services says it’s a central point for individuals to report suspected trafficking.

Cut 10 (06) “…started.”

To report trafficking you can call 1-855-4LA-KIDS (1-855-452-5437) and option 4 will direct you to a live person who’s trained to ask questions to determine if it’s trafficking or not.

Cut 11 (09)  “…or not.”

Tate says they’ve already received calls and the hotline is a vital advancement in the state’s work to protect children.

Cut 12 (03) “…have it here.”

Tate says if you suspect something to call and you can choose to remain anonymous.

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We are starting to get a better idea of who’s in and who’s out of the governor’s race since Senator John Kennedy announced he’s staying put and Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser will seek re-election. ULM political science professor Pearson Cross says it appears some of the biggest names in state politics are no longer interested in the job.

Cut 13 (05) “…year to go.”

As of today, the two major candidates are Attorney General Jeff Landry and Treasurer John Schroder, both Republicans. So far, a Democrat hasn’t officially announced but Cross says that could change with neither Kennedy nor Senator Bill Cassidy running for governor.

Cut 14 (08)  “…serious run.”

As for who’s considered a frontrunner in the race, Cross says Landry, who’s been endorsed by the state Republican party, appears to have more working in his favor as opposed to Schroder.

Cut 15 (11)  “…that regard.”

Between the two Cross says it could come down to a competition to see who’s the most conservative.

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Saints players cleaned out their lockers on Monday after failing to make the playoffs for a second consecutive season. New Orleans Coach Dennis Allen says the 7-and-10 record they posted this season is not the standard

Cut  16 (15)  “…for championships” 

Allen says the indication he’s been given is that he’ll return next season as the head coach. But he says no decisions have been made on offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael or anyone else on the staff…

 Cut 17 (17) “…moving forward” 

2022 was the first losing season for the Saints since 2016. For the second straight, the injury bug hit New Orleans hard. Michael Thomas, Jarvis Landry, Marshon Lattimore and Marcus Maye missed multiple games as the Black and Gold had to use 75 different players. Allen says at least they didn’t suffer many soft tissue injuries…

Cut 18 (26) “…to play faster.” 

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The LSU men’s basketball team looks to snap a two-game losing streak tonight when they host Florida. The Tigers are 1-and-2 in SEC play. After upsetting Arkansas, Coach Matt McMahon’s team has lost back-to-back games to Kentucky and Texas A&M on Saturday…

Cut 19 (18) “…on Saturday.”

Florida enters today’s game with an 8-and-7 overall record, 1-and-2 in the SEC. McMahon says they have a veteran group led by their leading scorer and fifth-year forward Colin Castleton…

Cut 20 (20)  “…the floor.” 

Tip-off is at 6 PM.

State Treasurer John Schroder becomes the second major candidate to run for governor. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A ruling clears up what type of visit a physician can recommend medical marijuana in Louisiana. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (28)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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State Treasurer John Schroder tells supporters he plans to run for governor and will officially launch his campaign next month. Meanwhile, Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser is not expected to enter the race. Louisiana Association of Business and Industry President Stephen Waguespack says another major candidate left to decide is Congressman Garret Graves…

Cut 3 (11) “…what the heck” 

Graves has not given an indication on when he’ll announce his intentions on running for governor. The Baton Rouge native is beginning his fifth term representing the state’s 6th Congressional District, which covers Baton Rouge and a portion of the Bayou Parishes, including Lafourche and Terrebonne Parishes.

Waguespack says Senator John Kennedy’s decision not to run was the first big domino to fall, Graves’ announcement would be the next….

Cut 4 (10)  “…in D-C” 

Republican state lawmakers Richard Nelson and Sharon Hewitt are other possible candidates. Waguespack says on the Democrat side, State Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson is seriously considering running…

Cut 5 (11) “…in a poll”

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According to an opinion from Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry, physicians can recommend medical marijuana to patients via a telemedicine visit. Gretna Representative Joe Marino says while doctors can’t prescribe schedule 2 medication like narcotics without an in-person visit, marijuana is not in the same classification.

Cut 6 (10)  “…legally different” 

Both Landry and Marino interpreted the law regarding doctor visits and access to medical marijuana to allow telemedicine visits. Medical marijuana can only legally be recommended by physicians who participate in the program. Marino says the ruling also helps those in rural areas who have difficulty seeing physicians in general.

Cut 7 (07)  “…that reason.”

Marino says the legislature passed the law to allow access to those who can benefit from medical marijuana and the law removed such hurdles it wasn’t intended to create more. Marino says a telemedicine visit is appropriate for someone who’s in hospice or….

Cut 8 (10)  “..no sense.” 

Marino says the state’s medical marijuana program continues to need revisions so it’s more accessible and affordable.

___________________________________________

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says a lawsuit filed against him by longtime State Librarian Rebecca Hamilton is possibly politically motivated. Hamilton alleges Nungesser fired her and had her marched out of her office after she reported him to the FBI and other investigators over what she calls “questionable contracts.” On Jim Engster’s “Talk Louisiana” radio show, Nungesser says he had nothing to do with Hamilton being placed on administrative leave…:

Cut 9 (09) “…employees made complaints.” 

Nungesser was questioned by the FBI about some contracts awarded by his agency, but no charges were ever filed. Hamilton’s lawsuit asks the judge to prevent Nungesser from taking enforcement action against her related to her being placed in leave in September. Nungesser says he suspects the lawsuit was intended to hurt him politically..:

Cut 10 (10) “…some type of an election.” 

Nungesser says he did not hire Hamilton and he cannot fire her either. She is currently on leave and collecting her state salary. He says the actions taken against her were because of library employee grievances and the state Library Board will deal with the matter….:

Cut 11 (12)  “…to do with it.”

Nungesser says the lawsuit is an attempt to discredit him as he runs for either higher office or re-election. His decision on that is expected tomorrow morning.

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State Treasurer John Schroder tells his supporters he’s running for governor and that makes him the second major candidate to declare his candidacy. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says now that Senator John Kennedy is no longer a factor expect to see more candidates jump in the race.

Cut 12 (07) “…is running.”

Pinsonat believes over the next two months, rumored candidates will make it known if they are in or out of the governor’s race.

Cut 13 (o7) “…you can raise.” 

When it comes to fundraising, Pinsonat says Attorney General Jeff Landry has a huge advantage with the backing of the state Republican party. He says gubernatorial candidates have to raise a minimum of five million to be considered a viable contenders.

Cut 14 (07)   “…your time.”

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser is expected to officially announce tomorrow he’s not running for governor.

We are expecting to learn more tonight about a rumored Buc-ees coming to Ruston, Whitney Thomas reports on the potential of the famous mega-convenience store being built on I-20.

Cut 1 (31)  “…Whitney Thomas.”

_______________________________________________

Experts predict Louisiana’s oil & gas industry will shrink OR move toward clean, green energy. But what does the industry say? Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Haydel’s Bakery in New Orleans is working around the clock to meet the demand for King Cakes. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

_____________________________________________

After a year of rumors, there could potentially be a Buc-ee’s coming to Ruston based on an agenda item that will be discussed at tonight’s city council meeting. Malcolm Butler with the Lincoln Parish Journal says council members are expected to discuss an agreement with CSMS Management.

Cut 4 (12)  “…started Buck-ees.”

Butler says they reached out to Ruston Mayor Ronny Walker to ask about the speculations but he declined to comment. He says if the rumors are confirmed tonight that the potential location for the Buck-ees will be perfect.

Cut 5 (08) “…of land.”

This would be the first Buc-ee’s in Louisiana. Butler says it would be great for the local economy.

Cut 6 (07)  “…our parish.” 

_____________________________________________

Dr. David Guzick, a National Academy of Medicine-recognized physician, will begin his new job as Chancellor for LSU Health Shreveport today. Guzick says he has a promising vision for the center.

Cut 7 (13) “…the region.”

Guzick’s most recent position was at the University of Florida, where he served as senior vice president of health affairs and president of UF health for nine years. He was able to integrate the hospital system with health science faculty, which led to tremendous growth. Guzick says he is more than prepared to be Chancellor.

Cut 8 (13)  “…in Shreveport.”

Guzick was awarded best physician for women and is a recipient of the Roy M. Pitkin Award. He says the Chancellor position is a way of expanding his career.

Cut 9 (07)  “…great things.”

____________________________________________

Experts say the Louisiana oil & gas industry is expected to shrink over the next year OR attempt a shift to clean, sustainable fuels. LSU energy sector economist David Dismukes says a number of companies will seek incentives via the Biden Administration’s Infrastructure Investments Act to invest in energy projects like wind, clean hydrogen fuel and carbon capture. Louisiana Oil & Gas Association President Mike Moncla says he agrees…but not as many companies as one may think…:

Cut 10 (11) “…get into green.”

In a “Louisiana Illuminator ” article, Dismukes said, “Clean hydrogen initiatives will be something else that will take off and probably be pretty big.” Moncla says LOGA is all for alternate fuels used alongside traditional energy but feels that prediction is “wishful thinking”…:

Cut 11 (12)  “…into that arena.”

Moncla says there are well over 800 companies currently drilling in Louisiana, and he doesn’t see too many of them having interest in, nor the budget for, exploring green energy…:

Cut 12 (10) “…in south Louisiana.”

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It’s now socially acceptable to devour a King Cake and among the most popular is from Haydel’s Bakery in New Orleans. Third-generation baker David Haydel says on average they braid anywhere from 60,000 to 75,000 cakes a year. And it’s not just folks in the Bayou State who enjoy a Haydel King Cake.

Cut 13 (09) “…since then.”

They also ship internationally and Haydel says they’ve sent the beloved pastry to places like Egypt, Ireland, and Australia.

And while most bakeries place the plastic baby on the outside of a King Cake, Haydel’s does it the old fashion way.

Cut 14 (12)  “…can find it.”

Haydel says they begin prepping for King Cake season in early November and bring in truckloads of ingredients. The average day at Haydel’s this time of year begins at 12:30 in the morning for bakers, they close shop at 5:00 in the evening, a cleaning crew comes in, and then it starts all over again. And even with all that preparation on King’s Day, they sold out.

Cut 15 (09)  “…a lot of fun.”

And every Haydel King Cake includes a porcelain collectible.

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A disappointing Saints season ended with a frustrating 10-7 loss to Carolina in the Superdome. New Orleans scored its lone touchdown on the opening drive, while the Panthers kicked a game-winning field goal on the final play of the game. Saints defensive end Cam Jordan says the game was a microcosm of the season…

Cut  16 (16)  “…losing” 

There were high hopes going into the season, but the Saints started the season two and five and could never really recover. It’s the second straight year Jordan and the Saints missed the playoffs…

 Cut 17 (11) “…with a vengance.” 

Once again the Saints have a bunch of unrestricted free agents going into the offseason. Coach Dennis Allen could not predict on how much of a roster turnover we will see…

Cut 18 (13) “…week or two” 

Saints safety Tyann Mathieu hopes this season could serve as a lesson that will result in more victories next year…

 Cut 19 (18) “…believe in that”

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The 7th-ranked LSU women’s basketball team defeated Kentucky 67-48 to improve to 16-0 yesterday, the best start in program history. Coach Kim Mulkey’s team led 31-17 at halftime to cruise to their fourth SEC win of the year…

Cut 20 (20)  “..start a game” 

Senator John Kennedy has told supporters he will not run for governor. Fellow Republican Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser announces his decision Tuesday. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1(30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Jefferson Parish deputies arrest two children for a string of car thefts and burglaries, and they’re looking for two other suspects. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Now that Senator John Kennedy has told supporters he will not run for governor this year, the next shoe to drop appears to be Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser. The 63-year-old Republican was a guest on Talk Louisiana with Jim Engster today and says tourism officials are encouraging him to run for re-election…

Cut 3 (09) “…decision to make.” 

Nungesser says he’ll make his announcement on WWL Radio in New Orleans on January 10th.

Attorney General Jeff Landry is the only major candidate to announce his candidacy for governor. Nungesser and Landry are not on friendly terms and on WRKF’s Talk Louisiana Nungesser said Landry is not electable because of his nasty political style…

Cut 4 (11)  “…good of Louisiana.” 

Several Republicans are considering a run at governor, including State Treasurer John Schroder, Congressman Garret Graves, state lawmakers Richard Nelson and Sharon Hewitt and there will be Democrats who will get in the race too. Nungesser is a moderate and is concerned if too many Republicans run, it will hurt his chances at making the run-off…

Cut 5 (10) “…the runoff”

Nungesser says if he can get in the run-off he likes his chances at becoming Louisiana’s next governor.

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Jefferson Parish deputies arrest two children, ages 12 and 14, for a string of car thefts and burglaries. The two were apprehended early Wednesday morning in the midst of a car burglary at the Creeks of River Ridge apartment complex and two suspects got away in dramatic fashion. Sheriff Joe Lopinto said one suspect fled the scene, carjacked a vehicle, crashed it, and ran off on foot. While the other suspect drove off, he encountered two deputies blocking the complex exit.

 Cut 6 (12)  “…catch up with him.” (2x)

Lopinto says the getaway car was a vehicle that had been carjacked from St. John on Tuesday.

A 12-year-old and 14-year-old were arrested and the four are believed to be linked to more than 60 car burglaries. Lopinto says the mother of the two juveniles, 42-year-old Tiffany Broomfield came to the sheriff’s office and was questioned why she didn’t know where her children were at 2 am.

Cut 7 (08)  “…(x2) who they were with.”

Lopinto says after Broomfield argued with officers she was arrested on outstanding warrants and told her two children would not be going home with her. Lopinto says he has a 12-year-old, and he knows where they are in the middle of the night.

Cut 8 (09)  “….know where they are.” 

Deputies say they’ve checked with local hospitals for any gunshot wounds possibly related to the incident in case one of the suspects was shot when he drove off.

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The work release inmate accused of killing a co-worker at Foster Farms in Farmerville has been arrested in Texas. Union Parish Sheriff Dusty Gates and his deputies have been looking for 48-year-old Bruce Causey since April

Cut 9 (10) “…warrants on him” 

Gates says Causey fatally stabbed Ketrick Lavon Calhoun at the chicken processing plant and fled the scene. He says police in Texas responding to a verbal domestic incident near Houston resulted in Causey’s arrest.

Cut 10 (09) “…make a mistake” 

Gates says Causey will have to face a firearm charge in Texas before he’s extradited to Louisiana. The sheriff says the Calhoun family is relieved…

Cut 11 (10)  “…to hear that.”

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It looks like a third day of voting will pass without the U.S. House selecting a Speaker. Republican House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy has fallen short of the 218 votes needed to become speaker for a 9th time today. “The Advocate” reporter Mark Ballard – who is in D.C. at the Capitol – says this is despite talk in the halls of Congress that negotiations with McCarthy’s naysayers were making progress…:

Cut 12 (13) “…and House procedures.”  

In a seventh vote taken at mid-day today (Thursday), McCarthy gathered only 201 votes. Democrat Hakeem Jeffries had 213. A motion for an 8^th vote fell short of enough votes to proceed.  A 9th vote today also failed to elect him. Ballard says behind-the-scenes negotiations will go on until the GOP can unite sufficient votes behind McCarthy’s leadership..:

Cut 13 (o7) “…Speaker of the House.” 

There are 20 Republican holdouts, who want concessions from McCarthy as House leader. Ballard says they want House rules changed so it no longer takes a majority vote to call for a vote to replace the Speaker. They also demand he commit to allowing far fewer so-called omnibus federal spending bills…:

Cut 14 (13)   “…passed at that moment.”

Ballard says there are still 5 congressmen who vow they will never vote for McCarthy as Speaker, and he’ll need at least three of their votes to cross the finish line.

LSU’S Pennington Biomedical Research Center’s DASH Diet receives tops rankings among U.S. News and World Report’s list of Best Diets. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1(29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Drivers are seeing a spike in gasoline prices, but it should not last long. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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LSU’S Pennington Biomedical Research Center’s DASH Diet once again ranks among U.S. News and World Report’s list of Best Diets. Dr. Catherine Champagne is one of the developers and she says the DASH diet consistently makes the list because so much research went into its creation.

Cut 3 (10) “…health benefits.” 

The DASH Diet was listed in the 1997 New England Journal of Medicine and ever since has been quoted by others about 6,000 times.

Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy foods. And unlike most fad diets that exclude foods, Champagne says the DASH Diet follows a different methodology.

Cut 4 (05)  “…in moderation.” 

Champagne says not only is the DASH Diet heart-friendly it helps prevent diabetes. And unlike fad diets, she says it’s one everyone in the home can take part in.

Cut 5 (08) “…entire family.”

The DASH Diet is ranked second for the best overall diet and weight loss, and number one for the best heart-healthy and diabetes diet.

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Hot and dry weather, than a late summer flood, then more hot and dry weather resulted in more than 500-million dollars in crop losses for Louisiana farmers in 2022. LSU AgCenter Economist Michael Deliberto says parts of northeast Louisiana saw 18 inches of rain during a week-long period in late August,

 Cut 6 (12)  “…quality reduction” 

The LSU AgCenter told the USDA that more than 800-thousand acres of the soybean crop was damaged, which is 68-percent of the crop, 316-million dollars in soybean losses.

Deliberto says low Mississippi River water levels also made it difficult to expert crop

Cut 7 (12)  “…oil seeds.”

Deliberto says 2022 was a good year for sugarcane, but they are still trying to determine the extent of damage from the freezing temperatures Christmas week…

Cut 8 (07)  “….first time” 

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How are gasoline prices for Louisiana consumers in the New Year? The statewide average price of regular gas is $2.94; up over 15-cents from a week ago, but still cheaper than a year ago. Louisiana AAA’s Don Redman says he expects prices to drop over the winter…:

Cut 9 (10) “…to do with demand.” 

Redman say demand for motor fuels always declines in colder months and the poor economy makes it even less. Barring anything unforeseen, Redman says, we can plan to spend less when we fill the tank…:

Cut 10 (08) “…at the pump.” 

The demand for motor fuels is down almost globally right now. Redman says crude oil is currently trading at around $77-a-barrel right now, compared with $120-a-barrel nine months ago. He says, for now, we will benefit by getting a break at the fuel pump…:

Cut 11 (12)  “…the coming weeks.”

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Congress remains in limbo until a new Speaker of the House is chosen and after five attempts it remains undecided. GOP Leader Kevin McCarthy has been nominated five times and has yet to garner enough votes. Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says voting for speaker unlike other issues is a lengthy process.

Cut 12 (13) “…this case 34 names.”  

Graves says not only does it mean there’s not a figurehead in place it also impacts House committee appointments.

Cut 13 (11) “…this point”  

The mid-term elections resulted in a House GOP majority that Graves says is an indication voters want accountability against the Biden Administration.

Cut 14 (10)   “…void that’s there.”

Graves says he along with the other Republican House members that represent Louisiana voted for Kevin McCarthy.