An Addis police officer faces two counts of negligent homicide after his vehicle struck a car and killed two Brusly teenage girls during a high-speed chase Saturday. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (37)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Websites with pornographic material are now required to verify a user’s age in Louisiana or face consequences. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The field for the 2023 governor’s race should become more clear this month. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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An Addis police officer faces two counts of negligent homicide after his vehicle struck a car with three passengers in Brusly and killed two teenage girls while he was participating in a high-speed chase Saturday. 18^th Judicial District Attorney Tony Clayton says once the evidence comes out the public will be enraged over Officer David Cauthron’s actions.

Cut 4 (07)  “…horrible decision.”

17-year-old Maggie Dunn and 15-year-old Caroline Gill were killed and Maggie’s brother Liam Dunn was also injured in the crash.

Authorities were pursuing 24-year-old Tyquel Zanders who allegedly stole a family member’s vehicle and led them on a chase in both East and West Baton Rouge parishes, that reached speeds of 110 miles per hour. Clayton expects there will be legislation to better define when officers can and cannot pursue a suspect at high rates of speed.

Cut 5 (07) “…violent nature.”

Zanders also faces charges in the deaths of the two teens.

Clayton says he believes the two charges of negligent homicide and one charge of negligent injuring are warranted against Cauthron.

Cut 6 (11)  “…under arrest.” 

Grief and crisis counselors will be at Brusly High School to assist students with the loss of their classmates.

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As of January 1st, websites that have pornographic material must verify a user’s age in Louisiana or face consequences. Metairie Representative Laurie Schlegel, who’s also a licensed counselor, authored the legislation because of the harmful effects pornography can have on children, like depression, and anxiety and they’re more likely to…

Cut 7 (08) “…in boy’s aggression.”

Schlegel says pornography is also tied to two of society’s greatest ills like sexual assault and human trafficking.

She believes age verification should be the gold standard when it comes to pornography which Schlegel says is just a click away and too accessible for children.

Cut 8 (11)  “…the majority of children.”

Louisiana is the first state to pass such a law and Schlegel hopes to see the issue addressed on a federal level.

Cut 9 (08)  “…have to.”

Schlegel says accountability will come when companies are sued for allowing minors access to hardcore pornography. She says websites would verify someone’s age in collaboration with LA Wallet. 

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2023 is shaping up to be a fascinating year for state politics with a governor’s race taking place in the fall. We still don’t know who is exactly running, but political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says we are expecting a decision from junior U-S Senator John Kennedy…

Cut 10 (10) “…couple months now.” 

Kennedy won re-election in November to a second term in the U-S Senate. But the 71-year-old announced in early November he’s considering a run for Governor. Pinsonat says if Kennedy decides not to run, we could have a large field of candidates, but they’ll need to raise a lot of money to compete with Attorney General Jeff Landry, who already has the endorsement of the state Republican Party…

Cut 11 (11)  “…statewide organization.”

This is also Governor John Bel Edwards’ final year in office as it’s a lame-duck year for Edwards and the Louisiana Legislature. But Pinsonat says trying to get more private property insurance companies into the state will be a goal…

Cut 12 (10) “…to see that.”

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LSU’s matchup with Purdue in the Citrus Bowl was not much of a game as the Fighting Tigers blew out the Boilermakers 63-7 in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. The Tigers had nearly 600 yards of offense. Sophomore wide receiver Malik Nabers had nine catches for 163 yards and a touchdown, he also threw a TD pass on a trick play…

Cut 13 (13) “…and executed”

Jayden Daniels started at quarterback as expected, but back-up Garrett Nussmeier also saw significant snaps. Daniels threw for 139 yards and a TD pass, while Nussmeier had 173 yards passing and two touchdowns and an interception. Coach Brian Kelly says Daniels still goes into the offseason as the starter…

Cut 14 (14)  “…elite quarterbacks.”

The Tigers played stellar defense as they intercepted three passes and had four sacks. Kelly says he was impressed with their play…

Cut 15 (18)  “…today”

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What a victory for Tulane yesterday in the Cotton Bowl as the Green Wave rallied back from a 15-point deficit to beat U-S-C 46-45 to finish a magical season with a 12-2 record. Coach Willie Fritz led the turnaround of a program that won just two games last season…

Cut  16 (2o)  “…for an institution” 

Tulane found themselves down 45-30 with 4 minutes and 30 seconds left. A fourth touchdown run by Tyjae Spears, a safety and then a touchdown pass with nine seconds left produced the comeback. Fritz says his team showed great heart…

 Cut 17 (14) “…young men” 

Alex Bauman caught the touchdown pass that tied the game at 45 with nine seconds left. Initially, the referee ruled it was an incomplete pass, but Bauman knew that instant replay would show he caught the pass in the end zone…

Cut 18 (14) “…I scored.” 

The extra point gave Tulane a dramatic victory.

If you think you have unclaimed property, you can now check the databases of 49 states, not just Louisiana’s. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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Louisiana is ranked third for the worst roads in America according to a consumer affairs report. Whitney Thomas has that story

Cut 2 (28)  “…I’m Whitney Thomas .”

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Louisiana’s unclaimed property program is now connected to a national database where you can check to see if you are owed money from one of 49 states. State Treasurer John Schroder says if you’ve lived in other places you can check on one secure website-Missing Money.com

Cut 3 (08) “…and check.” 

Schroder says the site is especially convenient for military families who have lived in multiple states, and others whose jobs have transferred them around.

He says one out of six Louisiana residents is owed money, while nationally it’s one out of seven.

Schroder says over 220 million properties totaling billions of dollars are available to search and claim on missing-money-com..

Cut 4 (09)  “…in Mississippi.”

Schroder says MissingMoney.com is ad-free, highly secure, and is the only site approved by the 49 states. Only Georgia is not participating.  He says it also charges no fees.

Cut 5 (08) “…state program”

There’s also Louisiana’s L-A-Cash-Claim-dot-org, which holds over one-billion dollars worth of properties waiting to be claimed.

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Louisiana ranks third for the worst roads in America according to Consumer Affairs. Their study looked at the D-plus grade Louisiana received from the American Society of Civil Engineers for its poor road conditions and pavement roughness. Deputy Editor at Consumer Affairs, Cassidy McCants,  says they also found Louisiana doesn’t spend enough money on its roads.

Cut 6 (07)  “…on roads” 

Louisiana has 61,300 miles of public roads, and 46% of the major roadways are in mediocre condition according to government data analyzed by a group called TRIP. McCants says drivers are paying for Louisiana’s poor roads, because of the wear and tear on their vehicles…

Cut 7 (09) “…per driver.”

McCants says they also surveyed a few residents and one driver blames the poor road conditions on the state relying on quick fixes like “patch repairs” rather than fixes made to last. 

She says another reason for Louisiana’s poor ranking is the number of traffic fatalities…

Cut 8 (11)  “…million miles.”

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The new year brings about opportunities for a fresh start and for many a new job. But what if you like what you do for a living but feel it’s time to receive more compensation, UNO professor of Economics and Finance Mark Rosa says to be prepared to present your case when you ask for a raise, promotion, or both.

Cut 9 (12)  “… to anybody.”

Rosa says when asking for a raise be reasonable, if you make $15 an hour don’t expect the company to agree to give you $72 an hour. Or if you want to be able to work three days a week at home and no one else at the company can, don’t expect your boss to agree.

Cut 10 (12) “…asking for.” 

Rosa says because many companies are having a hard time filling positions they have to be more flexible when it comes to salaries and or benefits to attract and/or retain employees.  But he warns if you give your employer an ultimatum be prepared….

Cut 11 (12)  “…credibility.”

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Strong to severe thunderstorms are likely for Monday in northwest and north central Louisiana. National Weather Service meteorologist Charlie Woodrum says a strong cold front will move across the region and tornadoes are possible…

Cut 12 (10) “…with this event.”

There’s also a slight risk for severe weather for northeast, central and southwest Louisiana. In mid-December, a child and mother were killed in Caddo Parish by an EF-2 tornado that struck Keithville. Woodrum says another tornado outbreak is possible today

Cut 13 (10) “…tornado warning”

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LSU plays Purdue today in the Citrus Bowl in Orlando as the game is set to kick-off at noon. The Tigers won the SEC West, while the Boilermakers won the Big Ten West division, but both teams will be missing several key players who helped accomplish those feats. LSU is thin at wide receiver and at defensive line, but defensive coordinator Matt House says they are embracing the challenge

Cut 14 (14)  “…guys compete.”

Purdue is going through a coaching change and so former Saints quarterback and Boilermaker legend Drew Brees is serving as an interim assistant coach for the Gold and Black. Brees has developed a great relationship with LSU during his time in New Orleans, but today he wants to beat the Bayou Bengals…

Cut 15 (11)  “…trying to beat em”

LSU’s starting quarterback in 2022 Jayden Daniels is playing today and he’s already announced he’ll play for the Tigers in 2023. Offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock says Daniels throwing ability has improved during his time in Baton Rouge…

Cut  16 (25)  “…hopefully” 

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Five people , four adults and a juvenile, have been arrested following the death of an infant in Winnfield. Jeff Palermo has the troubling details…

Cut 1(30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The Ronald Greene investigation, the DCFS scandal and a ban on most abortions are among the top stories in 2022. Marsanne Golsby has more…

Cut 2 (45)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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In 2021 the Louisiana Office of Tourism says 41 million people visited the Bayou State, not quite the pre-pandemic levels of 53 million in 2019. But Lt Governor Billy Nungesser is optimistic that numbers this year will indicate significant growth.

Cut 3 (07) “…record-breaking numbers.” 

Prior to COVID, he says the state had five years of record-breaking number years in state tourism.

Nungesser says it’s not just the Crescent City that’s rebounding in tourism, he says they saw record-breaking numbers during Mardi Gras elsewhere in the state.

Cut 4 (12)  “…really proud of.” 

And with the Sugar Bowl on Saturday, Nungesser says he’s been promoting tourism to both Alabama and Kansas State fans encouraging them to extend their trips.

Cut 5 (13) “…has to offer.”

For the second consecutive year, the Office of Tourism has promoted the state at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Tournament of Roses parade.

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If you are going to celebrate the New Year with fireworks, the state Fire Marshal’s office says light them at least 200 feet away from houses or anything else that can catch fire. Spokeswoman Ashley Rodrigue says the embers can start fires.

 Cut 6 (10)  “…of wind.”

She says don’t handle fireworks if you are impaired, and keep a close eye on young children.

Cut 7 (09)  “…their own.”

Rodrigue says to shoot only one firework at a time and keep an eye on where the embers land.

And she says fires have started in garbage cans when the packaging wasn’t soaked with water

Cut 8 (12)  “…can catch fire.“

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This year had its share of big stories in Louisiana with the investigation into the 2019 State Police custody death of Ronald Greene ranked as our top story of 2022. Federal prosecutors refused to pursue charges against the officers involved, but five officers are facing state charges. Greene’s mother Mona Hardin felt some relief…

Cut 9 (11) “…held accountable.” 

A special legislative committee held several hearings looking at how State Police attempted to cover-up the investigation into Greene’s death. There are questions of what Governor John Bel Edwards knew and when did he know about the beating Greene took from officers before he died….

Cut 10 (09) “…false.” 

The resignation of Department of Children and Family Services Secretary Marketa Garner Walters was another major story. Two Baton rouge toddlers died in a four-month span from drug overdose deaths. In both cases, DCFS received warnings the children were in danger. Governor Edwards defended Walters’ before he no longer could…

Cut 11 (11)  “…absolute failure.”

It was a big year for pro life advocates who saw abortion become illegal in most cases in Louisiana as a result of legislation passed that went into effect after Roe Versus Wade was overturned. Kathaleen Pittman was a long-time administrator at a Shreveport abortion clinic that shut down for good in August

Cut 12 (11) “…on the staff”  

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A 98-year-old mother from Alexandria and her 69-year-old daughter were killed in a two-vehicle crash on U-S 190 in Pointe Coupee Parish on Thursday morning. State Police Trooper Christian Reed says the victims were traveling in an S-U-V that slammed into the back of a parked tractor-trailer on the side of the road…

Cut 13 (09) “…at the scene”  

The victims have been identified as 69-year-old Barbara Dobard Rigby and 98-year-old Maynette Dobard of Alexandria. A person inside the 18-wheeler’s sleeper cab was not hurt. A toxicology sample was obtained from Rigby and submitted for analysis.

Reed says it’s a tragic incident to end the year…

Cut 14 (10)   “…fatal crash”

A new report shows food insecurity in Louisiana is on the rise as a result of inflation and a cut in federal benefits like the child tax credit. Whitney Thomas reports

Cut 1 (25)  “…I’m Whitney Thomas.”

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Sugar cane experts say Louisiana’s huge sugar cane industry was hit hard by the recent hard freezes. Marsanne Golsby reports.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby.”

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Wastewater samples in Shreveport indicate there’s about to be a spike in COVID cases. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Hunger Free America says food insecurity is surging in Louisiana because of inflation and the expiration of the child tax credit and free school meals. Hunger Free America CEO, Joel Berg, says more than 470-thousand Louisiana residents are living without enough food and with the cuts to federal aid, their paychecks are not enough to keep enough food on the table.

Cut 4 (13)  “…for food.”

Berg says the number of people without enough food over a seven-day period spiked by 26% in Louisiana, and 30% nationwide between October 2021 and October 2022.

Cut 5 (13) “…the nation.”

Residents in need can contact the national hunger hotline at 1-8-6-6 3 Hungry. Berg says he’s also encouraging the public to help fight hunger…

Cut 6 (09)  “…in Louisiana.” 

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LSU Ag Center experts say the recent freezes were disruptive to the sugar cane industry. Sugar cane specialist Kenneth Gravois says the crops now being harvested experienced what he calls a killing freeze.

Cut 7 (09) “…we’ve had.”

However, he says ten of the eleven sugar cane mills in Louisiana are still processing cane, and 85 percent of the cane in the fields has already been harvested—and he adds that despite the freeze, the quality of the sugar being processed is still very good.

Cut 8 (09)  “…the crop.”

He says ideally, the weather will remain cool to refrigerate the mature cane that hasn’t been harvested yet. In addition, he says 90 percent of the new crop is already in the fields. Gravois says experts just tested soil temperatures to assess the health of that crop.

Cut 9 (10)  “… don’t freeze.”

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Recent wastewater samples from Shreveport show an increase in COVID in northwestern Louisiana. The Center for Excellence for Emerging Viral Threats at LSU Health Shreveport has been monitoring samples. Director of Viral Genomic and Surveillance Dr. Krista Queen…

Cut 10 (11) “…sick yet.” 

Queen says people in the area should practice social distancing, wear face masks, and clean their hands more often because they could be spreading COVID and not know it yet.

She says when individuals are infected the virus begins replicating in their body even before they know they are sick.

Cut 11 (08)  “…uses the restroom.”

Queen says the increase of the virus in wastewater is similar to this time last year when because people tend to gather more for the holidays and also spread viruses.

Cut 12 (12) “…recently.”

Even though the wastewater samples are from Shreveport, Queen says it’s indicative of the area in terms of community spread.

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With the New Year comes a significant change in corporate taxes for Louisiana. A tax reform package passed by lawmakers in 2021 reduces the state’s corporate franchise tax; a tax paid on companies’ capital. Tax attorney and consultant Jason Decuir says the difference is relatively little (.025 percent) but there is also a built-in exemption that will benefit smaller businesses…:

Cut 13 (09) “…the franchise tax.”

Decuir says this is a first step in eventually getting rid of corporate franchise taxes altogether…:

Cut 14 (07)  “…starting this year.”

Decuir says there are also triggers calling for further reductions if Louisiana’s revenue hits certain benchmarks, which IS projected to happen. He says this is an important step in becoming a friendlier environment for business and competing with our Gulf south neighbor states…:

Cut 15 (08)  “…to do the same.”

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The Saints are getting ready for this Sunday’s game against the Eagles in Philadelphia. New Orleans is not sure who they will see at quarterback. MVP candidate Jalen Hurts did not play last weekend because of a shoulder injury, so Gardner Minshew started and nearly led the Eagles to a win over Dallas. Saints Coach Dennis Allen on getting ready to face the high-flying Eagles offense…

Cut  16 (19)  “.operate” 

The Saints enter the game with a six-and-nine record and need to win to keep their slim playoff hopes alive. Philadelphia has the best record in the NFL at 13-and-2. Allen says the players understand the challenge in front of them…

Cut 17 (16) “…handful for sure” 

It doesn’t look like former Saint C-J Gardner Johnson will play in this game. The Eagles safety remains on injured reserve but is still tied for first in the NFL with six interceptions. New Orleans traded Gardner Johnson to Philadelphia before the season started and Allen says they have no regrets…

Cut 18 (15) “…moved forward.” 

Tried of porch pirates stealing your gifts? Brooke Thorington talks to an attorney who’s doing his part to save Christmas.

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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As Congress races to pass a federal spending bill before a government shutdown deadline, Senator Bill Cassidy laments there’s NO money in it for coastal restoration. Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The Salvation Army is making it easier to donate in a variety of ways. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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By day Alistair Adkinson is a New Orleans attorney and when he’s not practicing law, he’s saving Christmas. After reading about porch pirates stealing packages in their neighborhood, he decided to offer his office as a drop-off site because they have an indoor door.

Cut 4 (08)  “…holidays.”

Adkinson and his wife are allowing folks to send packages to their Lower Garden district office so your Christmas gift won’t get swiped by a Grinch. And if you’re worried that their office will be closed by the time you can pick up your package, they’ve got that covered.

 Cut 5 (08) “…give us a call.”

It’s the first Christmas they’ve offered the free service and with all the positive feedback they’ve received Adkinson believes it will become a holiday tradition.

Cut 6 (07)  “…lifesaver.” 

You can call Adkinson at his office at 504-444-6910 or visit their website triplealawyer.com that’s triple spelled out for package arrangements.

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Efforts to bring more federal funding for coastal restoration, via higher oil & gas royalty payments, are dead for the year. Senator Bill Cassidy says he and Senator John Kennedy worked on the Reinvesting in Shoreline Economies and Ecosystems Act was not a part of the omnibus federal spending bill that Congress must pass this week…:

Cut 7 (08) “…not included.”

Cassidy’s RISE Act would lift a cap on royalties to energy-producing states to give them more capital for coastal rebuilding. The bill passed out of committee without opposition, but Cassidy says it got shunted aside in the mad dash to pass the spending bill. He says Congress dithers too long on important matters…:

Cut 8 (12)  “…this will change.”

Cassidy says the RISE Act could have brought nearly $ 2 billion to Louisiana over ten years, and he vows to bring it back in the next Congress. As for the spending bill itself…Cassidy says he cannot support it…:

Cut 9 (13)  “… I’m a NO.”

Cassidy calls the failure of the RISE Act to pass, and the rush to pass a massive spending plan at the last minute “chaos by design.”

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A Baton Rouge woman is sentenced to life in prison for the 2015 poisoning death of her boyfriend Damian Skipper. East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore says it was persistence that led to the second-degree murder conviction of Meshell Hale.

Cut 10 (09) “…in a verdict.” 

Moore says when they exhumed Skipper’s body, they found high levels of barium acetate which they believe Hale used to poison him and possibly her husband Arthur Noflin. Moore says they believe money was the motive.

Cut 11 (09)  “…intent.”

Two years after Skipper died in a Baton Rouge hospital his body was exhumed and his death was ruled a homicide after barium was found in his system. The charred remains of Noflin, the estranged husband, were found in the back of a truck in New Orleans in 2016. Moore says both men had been hospitalized with similar symptoms before their deaths.

Cut 12 (10) “…where we are.”

Hale has only been convicted for the death of Skipper.

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Because people tend to not carry cash on them these days, the Salvation Army is offering additional ways for you to donate to their annual Red Kettle Campaign. Lt. Thomas Johnson with the Salvation Army in Lafayette says now it’s as easy as pulling out your phone to donate when you see a bell ringer.

Cut 13 (08) “…to the site.”

Johnson says the Salvation Army has made it easier than ever to donate and your contribution stays in the community. He says donations help them fill a variety of needs.

Cut 14 (11)  “…come to us.”

With the inflation causing so many to tighten their belts, Johnson says that also means more people need assistance.

Cut 15 (11)  “…too small.”

Johnson says funds raised during the holidays go towards programs year-round, not just Christmas.

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A three-day early signing period begins today for high school football recruits to sign with college programs and the LSU Tigers are on the verge of signing a Top 5 class. On3.com ranks LSU’s 2023 Class as the seventh best. It features several defensive backs, including safety Javien Toviano, cornerback Daylen Austin and safety Kylin Jackson from Zachary. On3-dot-com’s Shea Dixon says five-star cornerback Desmond Ricks could also sign with the Tigers on Thursday

Cut  16 (23)  “..next class” 

In Kelly’s first recruiting class, the Tigers only signed 15 high school players last year. Dixon says Coach Brian Kelly will sign well over 20 high school players this recruiting cycle, a good combination of players from Louisiana and out of state…

Cut 17 (19) “…D-C area” 

Dixon says this goes down as Kelly’s first full signing class and it’s looking good…

Cut 18 (17) “…up well.” 

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The LSU men’s basketball team hosts East Tennessee State in its final game before taking few days off for Christmas Break. Coach Matt McMahon’s team is 10-and-1 and he’s looking for his guys to be mentally locked in tonight…

Cut 19 (27) “…take of business”

McMahon is looking for better perimeter defense after allowing opponents to make 18 three-pointers over the last two games…

Cut 20 (23)     ….of the year” 

The Corps of Engineers says yes to a huge project to divert Mississippi River sediment to the Barataria Estuary. The money is coming from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill settlement funds. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 1(30)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby.”

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The State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating three separate house fires that claimed three lives in just over a day. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Louisiana Emergency Rental Assistance Program and the Louisiana Homeowner Assistance Fund will stop accepting applications tomorrow. Desiree Honore Thomas is Assistant Commissioner in the Division of Administration.

Cut 3 (05) “..funds left. ” 

The rental assistance program began in March 2021 and Thomas says it has paid rent for about 26,000 tenants. The homeowner assistance program begin in January 2022 and has helped about 6200 homeowners to date. Thomas says both programs have helped people stay afloat through financial challenges brought about by the pandemic.

Cut 4 (09)  “…few people 

Thomas says the state will continue reviewing applications submitted by the deadline until all funds are expended. To learn more or to apply, go to lacovidhousing.com.

Cut 5 (05) “…Wednesday at 5″

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The Corps of Engineers has given the green light to the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion Project to use Mississippi River sediment to rebuild parts of Louisiana’s coast. Bren Haase is the executive director of the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority. He says it’s a monumental development.

Cut 6 (12)  “…first place”

Haas says the money for the project is coming from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill settlement fund. Governor John Bel Edwards says the project represents a major step forward towards restoring caused by the oil spill. Haase says the project will provide important storm surge protection for inland communities, including New Orleans.

Cut 7 (07)  “…systems”

Haase says construction on the project could get underway next Spring. He says once its operational, it will be able to build and sustain up to 26,000 acres of wetlands.

Cut 8 (09)  “…vegetation grows.“

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In a 26-hour period, three separate house fires claimed three lives in Louisiana. State Fire Marshal’s Office spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says it’s tragic especially because they could have been prevented. The fires happened in New Orleans, Leesville, and Ruston.

Cut 9 (11) “…fire hazards.” 

Sunday night a 73-year-old woman was unable to escape her home in the Gentilly neighborhood, they believe she was using canned sources of heat because the home had been without utilities for years. Monday afternoon an 83-year-old woman died in her Leesville home and the smoke detector was not working. And Monday evening in Ruston a disabled man in his 40s died. All fatalities are under investigation. Rodrigue says it’s vital to have a working smoke detector, especially with the hard freeze in the forecast.

Cut 10 (09) “… us yet.” 

And it’s not just those who are using extra sources of heat right that need to check for fire hazards. Rodrigue says you need to be mindful of the role holiday decorations can play also.

Cut 11 (09)  “…outlet.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards is asking the EPA to have Capitol Lakes in Baton Rouge declared as a Superfund site. Edwards says the letter he sent last week is the final step to make the long-polluted lakes eligible for federal assistance.

Cut 12 (10) “…by the EPA.”  

However, Edwards says the state match of 10 percent could be waved. Capitol Lakes have been plagued by pollution since the early 1980s. Edwards says contamination from PCB was detected in the lakes on the north side of the Capitol Complex in 1983.

Cut 13 (12) “…unacceptable levels.”  

He says the contaminates weren’t encapsulated, and they are still present in the lakes. Edwards says unfortunately the state doesn’t have the resources for remediation and he’s asking the EPA for assistance.

Cut 14 (10)   “…happen immediately.”

Edwards says it could take three to five years before remediation work begins.  Signage warning people not to consume fish from the lake has been there since the 1980s.

One of Louisiana’s statewide elected officials takes aim at TikTok. Whitney Thomas reports

Cut 1 (33)  “…I’m Whitney Thomas.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards end of the year report indicates the state is in good shape financially and more people are working than ever before.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Public Service Commission has delayed a vote on another six-dollar storm recovery surcharge being put on customers’ bills as they look to see if Entergy can pay some of the costs from the 2020 and 2021 storms. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Louisiana Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin is banning TikTok on all Department of State-issued devices, and is calling on Governor John Bel Edwards to do the same on a statewide level. Deputy Secretary for Outreach services, Joel Watson says TikTok poses a risk to your personal identification.

Cut 4 (13)  “…Communist party.”

Arodin believes that banning TikTok statewide would protect their data and reaffirm the commitment to privacy for constitutes. Watson says Louisiana isn’t the only state facing immediate banning.

 Cut 5 (09) “…Same thing here.”

Watson says this decision is important because it allows them to be an example for important cyber security matters

Cut 6 (13)  “.here today” 

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At his end-of-the-year press conference, Governor John Bel Edwards highlighted the state’s finances which have drastically improved from when he took office seven years ago, and because of that, the state is able to increase funding to programs versus cutting them.

Cut 7 (11) “…few things.”

Edwards says when he took office the state had a $2-billon deficit and with surplus amounts, in his two terms it’s now $2 billion to the good.

Last week the Revenue Estimating Conference says the state has an extra $925 million for the current budget year and for the next fiscal year estimated $608 million.

In addition to finances, Edwards says the state’s unemployment rate remains at historic lows at 2.9 percent.

Cut 8 (06)  “…two years ago.”

In December  2020, the unemployment rate was 6.9 percent. Employment wise the governor says the state is in much better shape than it was two years ago.

Cut 9 (12)  “… two-million-forty-two-thousand.”

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Are you ready for some very cold weather? State climatologist Barry Keim says a significant cold front will move through Louisiana on Thursday

Cut 10 (11) “…our region.” 

Morning lows on Friday will be in teens for much of the state and many locations will remain freezing temps for over 30 hours. Keim says  now is the time to prepare for these rare conditions.

Cut 11 (11)  “…as you can.”

Keim says people can also expect wind chills making it feel 10 to 15 degrees colder than actual temperatures.

Cut 12 (07) “… brace yourself.”

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The Louisiana Public Service Commission has delayed a vote on Entergy’s request for customers to pay an additional six-dollars a month for the next 15 years to pay for the costs associated with recovery from five named storms in 2020 and 2021. PSC Member Foster Campbell believes Entergy’s shareholders should split those costs with customers…

Cut 13 (10) “…hell with that.”

Campbell says the P-S-C decided to delay a vote after New Orleans lawyer Pat Patrick told commissioners state law does not require customers to pay 100-percent of storm recovery costs. He’s glad the commission is taking another look at this issue…

Cut 14 (08)  “…paying them”

Last February, the PSC approved an average storm recovery cost surcharge of about ten-dollars per month for 15 years. So now they are back seeking an additional six-dollars. Campbell says the P-S-C should its best to see how much of these costs should be shared by the utility company…

Cut 15 (08)  “…absolutely yes”

LSU Ag center experts say Louisiana sweet potato farmers have had their worst year in more than 30 years. They tell us farmers all over the state suffered losses. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 1(30)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby.”

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Alexandria attorney Mike Small believes his client Master Trooper Kory York will be found not guilty of the criminal charges he faces for his role in the fatal arrest death of Ronald Greene. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Experts say 2022 has been the worst year for Louisiana sweet potato production in more than 30 years. LSU Ag Center sweet potato specialist Myrl Sistrunk blames inconsistent weather…

Cut 3 (09) “..the state. ” 

He says farmers in the northeastern part of the state were hit the hardest, but the 2022 crop was expensive to plant all over the state, due to increased fuel, labor, and pesticide costs. He says production is down as much as 60-percent.

Cut 4 (10)  “…for the state” 

Sistrunk says this year has been a blow to farmers who had been banking on a bumper crop to help offset the cost of production. He says unlike farmers who grow soy, corn, and other crops that get government subsidies, sweet potato farmers do not have that kind of safety net. But he says the ones he has spoken with are trying to hang on.

Cut 5 (08) “…works out”

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The attorney representing Kory York believes the now suspended Master Trooper will be found not guilty of the charges he faces as a result of the 2019 in-custody death of Ronald Greene, a Black man who was beaten by officers before he died. Mike Small spoke with us today…

Cut 6 (12)  “…the indictment”

York is one of the five law enforcement officers facing charges. His charges are the most serious, one count of negligent homicide and ten counts of malfeasance. Small says it’s significant federal prosecutors investigated the case for two and half years and determined criminal charges were not warranted

Cut 7 (08)  “…subject of the investigation”

Small says there will be no plea bargaining as he believes York did not commit any crimes…

Cut 8 (11)  “…in Union Parish.“

Body camera video of the arrest shows York dragging Greene by his ankle shackles and putting his foot on his back for push him down and leaving him face down in the dirt for nearly ten minutes.

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Governor Edwards held his End of the Year Press Conference today highlighting accomplishments of 2022. Among the topics were the state’s budget surplus and record unemployment. Edwards also reflected where the state was a year ago with COVID at the beginning of the Omicron surge.

Cut 9 (11) “…much better.” 

Even with a reduction in COVID cases compared to a year ago, Edwards pointed out that the healthcare system is still stressed because they are responding to a “tridemic.”

Cut 10 (12) “… boosters.” 

Instead of giving daily COVID numbers Monday through Friday, the health department transitioned to weekly updates in October. But Edwards pointed out, even though it wasn’t the first topic of discussion that COVID remains an issue.

Cut 11 (12)  “…protect ourselves.”

Last Wednesday the state reported 4,700 cases of COVID and a seven-day average of 256 hospitalizations.

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The National Weather Service says the coldest weather of the season so far is expected in Louisiana by late in the day Thursday, bringing temperatures as low as ten degrees north of I-20 Friday morning. Forecaster Brandon Thorne says strong northwesterly winds, with gusts up to 30-40 mph, will accompany the front.

Cut 12 (08) “…even Saturday.”  

Thorne says the southern part of the state will experience a hard freeze with wind chill effects in the single digits.

Cut 13 (08) “…high accumulations.”  

Thorne says it’s time to begin preparing.

Cut 14 (09)   “… cold weather”

Data from Tulane University shows Louisiana small businesses and startups planning more hiring and leasing office space. Brooke Thorington reports on the post-pandemic economic news…:

Cut 1 (34)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Governor Edwards will host his annual end-of-the-year press conference this morning. Brooke Thorington has more on what he’s expected to highlight.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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It’s Christmas week and it’s just not Santa that’s coming to the Bayou State from the North Pole this week. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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In 2023, most Louisiana residents on Social Security will see a big increase in their benefits. Deputy Assistant Secretary for family support at D-C-F-S, Monica Brown, says it’s the largest increase in 40 years and veterans benefits will also go up next year…

Cut 4 (08)  “…going to be great.”

But 34 percent of SNAP recipients who receive Social Security or Veterans Benefits face an average reduction of 47-dollars in monthly benefits because their income will increase as a result of the cost of living adjustment. The reduction will occur when the federal Public Health Emergency for COVID ends. Brown says about 14-hundred SNAP recipients will no longer be eligible for SNAP benefits….

 Cut 5 (10) “…an effect.”

Brown says households facing a reduction in benefits or the closure of a case will have another option.

Cut 6 (11)  “…SNAP benefits” 

For more information about SNAP, visit www.dcfs.la.gov/SNAP.

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A new survey from Tulane University shows the traditional office environment is making a bit of a post-pandemic comeback; especially among smaller businesses. The survey asked over 150 startups and small businesses across a 10-parish region about staffing and plans to lease office space. Emily Egan, with Tulane’s Freeman School of Business, says nearly 70-percent plan to add employees and the number planning to lease space rose by 6-percent…:

Cut 7 (12) “…the primary office.”

Egan says more than 50-percent of respondents to the survey indicated some staff will continue to work remotely, but 38-percent feel having an office is a good idea…:

Cut 8 (05)  “…interact in person.”

Egan says the survey showed startups having better success with raising capital in 2022, and higher average gross revenues (up from $1.5-million to $2.3-million). She says these companies plan to add staff in the coming New Year, and that’s a good indicator of a healing economy…:

Cut 9 (08)  “…doing this report.”

Read the entire report at “GNOstartupreport.com”

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Governor Edwards will host his annual end-of-the-year press conference this morning. ULM Political Science Professor Pearson Cross expects Edwards to tout the budget surplus that’s allowed him to make critical investments, like on roads and bridges and teacher pay raises.

Cut 10 (09) “…historic low.” 

Edwards will also face the media for the first time since criminal charges were handed down against five law enforcement officers in the Ronald Greene fatal arrest. Cross believes the governor will tread lightly on the topic. Cross says the real question is what did Edwards know and when did he know it.

Cut 11 (07)  “…on this.”

Cross expects Edwards to avoid discussing what led to the resignation of Secretary Marketa Garner Walters at the Department of Children and Family Services. As for what to expect in his last year in office Cross says Edwards will do what he can to leave his mark despite having lame-duck status.

Cut 12 (08) “… somewhat less.”

Cross says he feels Edwards’ will be judged favorably when his term ends especially on how he responded to hurricanes and the pandemic.

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A major arctic blast is heading Louisiana’s way. State Climatologist Barry Keim says you’ll need the heavy coats and gloves later this week.

Cut 13 (10) “…below normal.”

Keim says morning lows on Friday will be in the teens in north Louisiana…

Cut 14 (07)  “…in New Orleans.”

So if you’re going out of town be sure to have your pipes and plants prepped ahead of time.

This cold air will not bring us a White Christmas but Keim says you might want to ask to Santa for flannel pajamas.

Cut 15 (10)  “…below normal.”

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Two weeks from today LSU will play Purdue in the Citrus Bowl in Orlando and Coach Brian Kelly says Jayden Daniels will be ready after failing to finish the SEC Championship game because of an ankle injury…

Cut  16 (26)  “..through that progression.” 

Purdue will play without its top three offensive stars in the bowl game. Quarterback Aidan O’ Connell, receiver Charlie Jones and tight end Payne Durham. UCLA transfer Austin Burton will start for the short-handed Boilermakers. Kelly says Burton started a game in September…

Cut 17 (21) “…and playing” 

Bowl practices give teams a chance to play some young guys who didn’t play during the regular season. Kelly says several guys have stood out…

Cut 18 (28) “…few more guys” 

 Kelly also mentioned freshman quarterback Walker Howard performed well in red zone drills on Saturday.

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It’s been a disappointing Saints season, but at least they’ve beaten the Falcons twice. New Orleans took care of the Dirty Birds on Sunday as they held on for a 21-18 win over Atlanta. The Saints entered the game with slim playoff hopes, but Coach Dennis Allen expected his team would play hard….

Cut 19 (25) “…did it again here today”

Andy Dalton threw two touchdown passes to Juwan Johnson and Taysom Hill also threw a 68-yard bomb to Rashid Shaheed.  New Orleans defense gave up 231 rushing yards but, Allen says coming away with the victory was the important thing….

Cut 20 (17)     …..what we did today” 

A Union Parish Grand Jury charged five law enforcement officers in connection with the death of Ronald Greene. The most serious charge is negligent homicide. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1(36)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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November marked the sixth straight month of record-breaking unemployment. And this month the state set a record for non-seasonally adjusted employment–which includes temporary jobs. Marsanne Golsby…

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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Louisiana State Parks are offering special holiday events at their facilities. State Parks director Brandon Burris says all of the parks have added holiday features.

Cut 3 (08) “..Christmas pictures. ” 

There are 38 state parks, historic sites, and preservation areas. He says Santa is making appearances throughout the park system. Oakley House at Audubon Historic site near St. Francisville is conducting ongoing guided tours and more.

Cut 4 (07)  “…going on.” 

Tomorrow there’s a Christmas celebration at Fort Jesup Historic Site at Many from 10 am to 3 pm, and a make-your-own ornament event at Fort St. John Baptiste Historic Site at Natchitoches from 1 to 3 pm.

Burris says the parks system is offering a special: four nights for the price of three through the end of the month. The promo code is kickoff2022. In addition, for those who want to give a non-traditional gift, the parks system is offering gift cards.

Cut 5 (08) “…hands on”

For more information on the events or to make reservations, go to lastateparks.com

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The mother of Ronald Greene made remarks Thursday evening after criminal charges were handed down against five law enforcement officers who were at the scene when her son was beaten and tased by cops before he died in May of 2019. Mona Hardin said she asked Governor John Bel Edwards to join them last night.

Cut 6 (14)  “…for itself.”

Hardin has repeatedly called on those responsible for Greene’s death to be held accountable. Legal Analyst Tim Meche says the grand jury failed to charge the officers with murder or even manslaughter. Only one is charged with negligent homicide, which carries a maximum sentence of five years.

Cut 7 (12)  “…they’re convicted.”

In addition to criticizing the governor, Hardin also had harsh words for state leaders for allowing state police to continue their behavior and mistreatment of people of color.

Cut 8 (12)  “…clean up.“

One of the officers that were involved has since died but of the five officers who have been charged four face Malfeasance in Office and three face Obstruction of Justice. Meche feels the charges don’t match the crime.

Cut 9 (09) “…young man” 

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Louisiana’s Gaming Control Board has approved the sale of the abandoned Diamond Jacks Casino in Bossier City to Foundation Gaming, a Mississippi-based company. Foundation’s marketing operator Les McMackin says they plan to open the Shreveport-Bossier City area’s first land-based Casino by December 2024 with a nearly $200 million renovation.

Cut 10 (12) “… again with that” 

The company plans to re-brand the 26-acre property with a new name which has yet to be revealed. McMackin says plans for the project feature new construction on a 47,000-square-foot casino, renovation of the 405-room hotel, at least three new restaurants, and….

Cut 11 (11)  “…and live.”

Foundation hopes to provide a fresh, customer-friendly experience in what they believe to be a great project for the market and the community. McMackin says the company needs to provide something new and different into the market

Cut 12 (09) “…property.”  

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New numbers released today from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics show Louisiana continues to add jobs.  Louisiana Workforce Commission Secretary Ava Cates says November’s unemployment rate of 3.3% marked the sixth month in a row the state has either tied or set a record low.

Cut 13 (12) “…from there.”  

This month, Louisiana also set a new record low for non-seasonally adjusted unemployment, which reached 2.9%. That month-to-month jobs count, which includes seasonal and temporary work, set records in three categories—the unemployment rate, the number of employed, and the number of unemployed.  She says all of those mean good news for employers and those seeking jobs. Cates says jobs are being added in all corners of the state and in all parts of the economy.

Cut 14 (11)   “… be openings”

She says there are ten thousand openings on the workforce commission’s web page, and the state has programs to help employers and people looking for work.

Cut 15 (10) “…can qualify.”

She says job seekers who are looking to upgrade their skills can get free training on the Workforce Commission website.