Senator John Kennedy calls on FEMA to end their secrecy over dramatically increased flood insurance rates. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1(34)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The Revenue Estimating Conference says the state has an extra $925 million in the state’s current budget. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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It’s time to get those cards and packages in the mail so they’ll arrive before Christmas instead of after. Brooke Thorington has some tips.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Senator John Kennedy took the U.S. Senate floor Thursday to challenge FEMA to explain exactly how it determines National Flood Insurance rates; some of which are forcing people to cancel coverage or even leave their homes. Kennedy says the new Risk Rating 2.0 is causing flood coverage rates to increase so sharply, many homeowners simply cannot afford it anymore…:

Cut 4 (12)  “…and it’s falling.”

Kennedy says the problem doesn’t just affect Louisiana. He cites an Associated Press report stating an estimated 1 million fewer American households have flood insurance, thanks to Risk Rating 2.0. Kennedy says FEMA refuses to be transparent with how they set their flood rates…:

 Cut 5 (12) “…have to kill ya.”

Kennedy says it does no good for the federal government to offer flood insurance if people cannot afford it. He says FEMA’s refusal to be forthcoming with how rates are set is disturbing, and it’s putting stress on already-strained households…:

Cut 6 (11)  “…their rates go up!” 

Kennedy says Louisiana property owners deserve to know. He’s co-sponsoring a bill to require transparency of FEMA on flood insurance.

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A Union Parish Grand Jury has indicted five officers involved in the 2019 fatal arrest of Ronald Greene. Greene, a Black motorist. was beaten to death after a lengthy police chase that ended on a rural highway in Union Parish. Trooper Kory York faces the most significant charge, one count of negligent homicide and ten counts of malfeasance in office. Greene’s mother, Mona Hardin, was in Baton Rouge when the indictments came down…

Cut 7 (12) “…accountable.”

Trooper John Cleary was charged with one count of obstruction of justice. Former State Troopers Dakota Demoss and Captain John Peters each face one count of obstruction of justice. Union Parish Deputy Chris Harpin faces three counts of malfeasance in office. Attorney Ron Haley urges district attorney John Belton to charge these individuals to the fullest extent of the law…

Cut 8 (09)  “…for Ron.”

Eugene Collins President of the Baton Rouge branch of the NAACP wishes the charges were more significant…

Cut 9 (11)  “…five troopers.”

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The Revenue Estimating Conference released surplus amounts for the current budget year and the next for Louisiana.  Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne says the state has a surplus of $925 million for the current year budget that ends June 30^th

Cut 10 (10) “… that amount.” 

And the forecasted surplus for next year’s budget that begins July 1^st is $608 million.

Dardenne says the REC will give recommendations to the legislature on how the extra funds should be spent when the executive budget is presented in February. He says those recommendations will be consistent with what was done in the current year and use some of the recurring money for nonrecurring purposes.

Cut 11 (10)  “…growing the budget.”

Dardenne and Senate President Page Cortez both suggested using the funds to go towards infrastructure and teacher pay raises in next year’s budget.

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon has stated he will ask the REC for a portion of those funds in an effort to entice more property insurers to write policies in Louisiana. At least 10 insurers left the state and of those who remain, several of them are not writing any new policies in Louisiana. Dardenne says Donelon discuss a plan at the REC Thursday.

Cut 12 (10) “…in the state.”

Dardenne also says the state is expected to face a budget shortfall in 2025 because a .45-percent sales tax will expire.

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Saturday is the deadline for first-class mail and packages to be posted for Christmas arrival. USPS spokesperson David Walton has a few mailing tips you’ll need to keep in mind that will also help in getting your gifts to their intended recipients before Santa arrives. He says to use a sturdy box for packages so gifts arrive in one piece.

Cut 13 (11) “…return address.”

Walton says your local post office has an assortment of free boxes for you that you can use to send your packages priority mail.

And when it comes to letters or packages, Walton says to never guess a zip code.

Cut 14 (11)  “…location.”

You can visit USPS.com to look up a zip code under the “send” tab.

The website also has a tool called “Click and Ship.” Walton says it’s ideal for folks who want to avoid standing in line to mail a package. He says you can calculate shipping costs for your package and.…

Cut 15 (10)  “…free of charge.”

The deadline for Priority Mail is December 19th and the deadline for Priority Express is December 23rd.

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After the bye week. the Saints have only four weeks left to salvage what’s been a disappointing season. 4-9 and last in the NFC South, New Orleans has struggled on both sides of the ball. Their sloppy play has lost them game after game, from struggling to produce in the red zone to giving up two touchdowns in the final 3 minutes to lose a 13 point lead. Quarterback ANdy Dalton says the team knows they’ve missed opportunities to win…

Cut  16 (18)  “..several weeks.” 

The Saints will host the Falcons this week as rookie quarterback Desmond Ridder is set to make his first start of the season after starter Marcus Mariota suffered a knee injury and left the team. Ridder was selected out of Cincinnati in the 3rd round of this year’s draft. Saints second-year linebacker Pete Werner is hoping to make his return from injury and played Ridder during his time at Ohio St. He says preparation for Atlanta shouldn’t change much no matter who’s at quarterback…

Cut 17 (18) “…the first time.” 

At 4-9, the Saints are set to have their first losing season since 2016, but that doesn’t mean their hopes for the season are completely over. With 4 games left, the Saints are just two games behind the division-leading Buccaneers, and Werner said the team’s mentality is to go 4-0 over these last four games. Dalton says it’s easy to point out the little mistakes that have cost the team over the season…

Cut 18 (18) “…change the outcome.” 

Kickoff against Atlanta is at noon Sunday

Longtime Public Service Commissioner Lambert Boissiere says goodbye to the P-S-C during an emotional farewell speech. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1(30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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State Climatologist Barry Keim says December tornado outbreaks are becoming more common. He says there were twenty one reports of tornadoes in Louisiana over two days this week. Marsanne Golsby looks into what may be causing them.

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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The United Way of Southeast Louisiana is encouraging donations to its Tornado Relief Fund to help families impacted by yesterday’s tornadoes. Michael Williamson is President and CEO of United Way of Southeast Louisiana.

Cut 3 (07) “..holiday possible” 

Heavy storm damage was reported in Marrero, and parts of St Bernard Parish, including Arabi. He says they are waiting to get an exact count of how many people lost their homes.

Cut 4 (13)  “…purchased.” 

Williamson says when tornadoes have hit in the past they have given out cash cards. He is hoping to raise enough money through the organization’s website to hand out cards again this year. He says they have already distributed some emergency supplies and need volunteers to help in the affected areas.

Cut 5 (09) “…right away”

To learn about all the ways to help and to donate, go to UnitedWaySELA.org/TornadoRelief

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State Climatologist Barry Keim says there were 62 reports of tornadoes across seven states over two days this week—21 in Louisiana, and he says the warm weather was the reason.

Cut 6 (12)  “…above normal.”

But Keim says we don’t know exactly how many tornadoes there were because there were likely multiple reports of the same tornadoes. He says December tornado outbreaks are becoming more common

Cut 7 (09)  “…99 tornadoes.”

That record was set in 2002. He says the usual winter combination of alternating cold and warm fronts increases the chances of tornadoes forming, especially when the warm air is warmer and more humid than usual.

Cut 8 (11)  “…the season.“

He says the Climate Prediction Center is forecasting a warmer-than-normal winter.

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Outgoing District Three Public Service Commissioner Lambert Boissiere presided over his final P-S-C meeting today as he was defeated by political newcomer Davante Lewis, a 30-year-old Baton Rouge man who works for the Louisiana Budget Project. An emotional Boissiere told the commission he’s proud of his work…

Cut 9 (09) “… about me”  (2x)

Boissiere has served on the P-S-C for 17 years. One of the commission’s main responsibilities is regulating utility companies. He says one of his proudest achievements is the P-S-C’s work in restoring the electricity grid after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Boissiere lost by nearly 20 points in last Saturday’s election to Lewis, who is considered a progressive. Boissiere says third party groups told lies about his record

Cut 10 (12) “… worry about” 

Prior to the December 10th election, the Keep the Lights On PAC spent huge dollars blasting Boissiere for taking contributions from people and businesses that go before the P-S-C. Boissiere says he doesn’t blame the voters…

Cut 11 (08)  “…I get it.”

The election came after a summer that saw record high utility bills and in 2021 customers in his district dealt with lengthy hurricane-related outages

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The U.S. Coast Guard is responding to a helicopter crash about 30 miles offshore of Terrebonne Bay.  The crash happened shortly before 10 this morning and Petty Officer Gabriel Wisdom says an aircrew from New Orleans has been dispatched.

Cut 12 (08) “…in a life raft.”  

Wisdom says the private aircraft with three persons onboard was en route to an oil platform when the crash occurred.

Cut 13 (09) “…oil platform.”  

This is an ongoing response and the Coast Guard is providing updates on their Twitter page.

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Governor John Bel Edwards and GOSHEP officials are doing flyovers of areas damaged by Wednesday’s tornados in southeast Louisiana. Edwards is asking those who received property damage to register online at DamageLA.gov.

Cut 14 (12)   “… federal government.”

Edwards says the state is going to do what it can to quantify damage for Federal assistance and if eligible the state will make an application for aid.

Cut 15 (10) “…can qualify.”

Edwards says they are going to compile as much information as possible and try to qualify for federal aid, if possible, but most likely the state and local governments will have to fund response efforts.

A tornado destroyed a neighborhood in Farmerville last night. Jeff Palermo spoke with mayor John Crow….

Cut 1(27)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Authorities have released the names of the mother and son killed in the tornado that struck Keithville yesterday. They are 30-year-old Yoshiko Smith and eight-year-old Nikolus Little. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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A 30-year-old mother and her eight-year-old son were killed by a tornado that tore through the town of Keithville in Caddo Parish last night. Caddo Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Director Robert Jump says the tornado touched down in the Pecan Farms area

Cut 3 (06) “…subdivision” 

Caddo Parish Sheriff Steve Prator says the young boy was found dead in a wooded area of Pecan Farms and the woman was found deceased one street over from where her home was destroyed. The Caddo Parish Coroner’s office has determined they died of blunt force trauma.

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Last night a tornado also hit Union Parish. Farmerville Mayor John Crow says the tornado hit the northern part of the town.

Cut 4 (09)  “…left standing” 

He said the tornado flipped over cars at the apartment complex, then crossed Lake D’Arbonne and did other damage on the lake’s south side.

Cut 5 (07) “…some barns”

Crow estimates about twenty people were checked out for minor injuries. He says the sheriff is bringing in dogs to check the debris but he believes everyone is accounted for. He says there is an emergency shelter in town for those who lost their homes. He says help is pouring into the town.

Cut 6 (10)  “…help us.”

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Authorities have identified the mother and son killed in the powerful tornado that struck near Keithville yesterday. The Caddo Parish coroner’s office says 30-year-old Yoshiko Smith and eight-year-old Nikolus Little were killed when the storm stuck around 5 pm. Sheriff Steve Prator says their husband and father was at work when the storm stuck and he came home to try to find them.

Cut 7 (12)  “…them missing.”

Prator says he sent about 20 deputies to go look for the house, but they couldn’t find it.

Cut 8 (09)  “…find it.“

Prator says the search was difficult and took a long time because of the amount of damage in the neighborhood.

Cut 9 (15) “… horrible situation.” 

Prator says one person was also seriously injury, four homes destroyed, and at least 20 others damaged.

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In ten months, Louisiana voters will go to the polls to elect the state’s next governor. Southwest Louisiana Congressman Clay Higgins says he’s supporting the first Republican, Attorney General Jeff Landry, who officially announced his candidacy. In the video ad Higgins is shown driving his vehicle and talking to the camera about Landry.

Cut 10 (11) “… people.” 

Republicans like Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and Treasurer John Schroder, who are also considering running for governor, have criticized the state party for its early endorsement of Landry. Higgins disagrees.

Cut 11 (11)  “…and strategic.”

Less than a week after he was re-elected to a second-term Senator John Kennedy stated he was considering a run for governor but has yet to make it official. Higgins, who was re-elected to his fourth congressional term in November is backing Landry for the state’s highest office.

Cut 12 (08) “… certainly am.”  

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New Iberia officials are also reporting tornado damage. Captain Leland Lasiter with the New Iberia Police Department says two tornadoes hit their town this morning…

Cut 13 (12) “…as well”  

Leland says first responders were deployed to the Southport Subdivision area and it appears everyone survived the harrowing experience

Cut 14 (11)   “…local hospitals”

Leland says a temporary shelter has been set up at New Iberia Senior High School in the gym…

Cut 15 (11) “…has been displaced.”

Children’s Hospital New Orleans is addressing the notable rise in eating disorders amongst children and teens by launching the first pediatric Eating Disorder Center in Louisiana. Whitney Thomas reports.

Cut 1(29)  “…I’m Whitney Thomas.”

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Since a new law allowing adopted children access to their original birth certificate went into effect in August Vital Records has received more than 640 requests and 520 have been located. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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State Representative Blake Miguez represented the USA in the 2022 ISPC World Shoot on their way to a silver medal. Kace Kieschnick has the story..

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick”

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Children’s Hospital New Orleans launched the first pediatric hospital-based Feeding and Eating Disorder Center in Louisiana and the Gulf South. The center will provide gold-standard assessments and treatments to adolescents suffering from eating disorders. Amy Henke, Psychologist at Children’s Hospital New Orleans says there has been a significant rise in eating disorders amongst children and adolescence.

Cut 4 (11)  “…more limited.”

Henke says the center was designed as an outpatient clinic to give families a chance to receive treatment in their home settings. She says this will allow kids to still be kids beyond their disorder.

 Cut 5 (14) “…these difficulties.”

Patients who don’t live in New Orleans will still be able to access care and treatment. Henke says with virtual care families can still get the same outcome.

Cut 6 (10)  “…the state.” 

For more information about providers, families can contact the Eating and Feeding Disorder Center, visit chnola.org/eatingdisorder or call 504-896-9827.

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National Treasure: Edge of History debuts tonight on Disney plus. The series, which was filmed earlier this year, is not only shot but it’s set in Baton Rouge. Film Baton Rouge Executive Director Katie Pryor says Disney spent over $50 million in the capital city, $17 million on payroll and that was only the beginning.

Cut 7 (07) “…everything here.”

The series follows Lisette Olivera’s character as she follows clues to a lost treasure and uncovers family secrets along the way.  Catherine Zeta-Jones plays her nemesis determined to find the lost relics before anyone else.  The series uses multiple locations in Baton Rouge, like the Old State Capitol, the Old Governor’s Mansion, and the USS Kidd. Pryor says when attractions like that are featured in a Disney production it’s a visual postcard of the city on a global scale.

Cut 8 (04)  “…unbelievable.”

Pryor says it’s the old if you build it, they will come mantra and when other productions see what Baton Rouge can offer, they will follow.

Cut 9 (10)  “…you gain.”

In addition to ideal visual locations, Pryor says trained film crews and established vendors in Baton Rouge only entice more productions to the area. The first two of ten episodes can be streamed tonight on Disney+.

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Since a new law allowing adopted children access to their original birth certificate went into effect on August 1^st, the Louisiana Vital Records Registry has received 640 requests and about 520 have been located. Leesville Representative Charles Owen, who is adopted himself and wrote the law, says the remaining requests are being processed.

Cut 10 (11) “…to happen.” 

Now children who were adopted in Louisiana, once they reach the age of 24, can request a copy of their original birth certificate.  Owen says several individuals who have since found their parents have reached out to him thanking him for the legislation. He says their stories are inspirational.

Cut 11 (07)  “… 102-year-old mother.”

Since 1977 original birth certificates and the identity of the adoptee’s birth parents were sealed. Owen says he’s grateful the legislature realized it’s ok to change a law you believe was intended to protect individuals but instead it hurts people.

Cut 12 (09) “…right a wrong.”

Owen says it averages 10 to 12 weeks to receive your original birth certificate once the request is received.

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Erath Representative Blake Miguez won the silver medal for team USA in the 2022 IPSC World Shoot. Miguez, who’s been shooting since he was 12, is a former world champion pistol shooter and balances his passion for competitive shooting with politics. He and Team USA traveled to Thailand where Miguez finished in fifth place in his division.

Cut 13 (13) “…brain forever.”

Miguez competed in multiple national-level competitions to earn the number two spot on the team. The 30-year competitive shooting veteran said this competition is especially challenging…

Cut 14 (13)  “…very challenging.”

Miguez won the world competition in Greece 12 years ago and has previously been both national and world champion. He and team USA competed against nearly two thousand other shooters representing nearly 100 countries.  Considering everything he has on his plate right now, he says he’s proud of his and his team’s performance…

Cut 15 (11)  “…with the finish.”

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Many of those covering the NFL both with organizations and in the media believe former Saints Head Coach Sean Payton isn’t done coaching, and some have even gone on to say he could be back with a team as early as next year. Payton is currently with Fox Sports in Los Angeles and has spent time with both the Chargers and Rams organizations. Many have speculated he would like to coach Justin Herbert and the young, talented offense of the Chargers, but new rumors have arisen surrounding the Rams coaching job as Sean McVay considers an early retirement. Saints analyst Mike Detillier says Payton has an interest in those teams…

Cut  16 (17)  “..the west coast.” 

Another potential suitor named for Payton has been the Cardinals as they struggle under Coach Kliff Kingsbury. The Cardinals boast a potent offense led by Heisman-winning quarterback and first-overall pick Kyler Murray. Detillier says Sean also has a history with the owners…

Cut 17 (19) “…Bidwell family.” 

Recently many Saints fans have hoped to see a return to New Orleans after Nola.com’s Jeff Duncan cited the Black and Gold as a potential landing spot for Payton. The Saints have struggled without Payton this year and many are unsure of what will happen to the current Saints coaching staff next season. Detillier, however, is less confident in this possibility…

Cut 18 (19) “…that’s a long-shot.” 

It’s believed tonight’s meeting about the new proposed 1-10 Calcasieu River Bridge is the last one for the public to add their input. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 1(33)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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College football is mourning the loss of Mississippi State Coach Mike Leach who died last night after suffering a massive heart attack on Sunday. He was 61. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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State Police investigators have released more details about the death of an inmate yesterday at the St. Mary Parish Courthouse. Trooper Derek Senegal says the altercation occurred between the inmate and a corrections deputy in a deliberation room just outside a courtroom.

Cut 3 (09) “…gunshot wound” 

He says the inmate was taken to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead by the medical staff. He says the corrections officer was not injured.

Cut 4 (10)  “…at the time” 

Senegal says the inmate was at the courthouse on official business. Investigators are trying to figure out what led up to the incident.

Cut 5 (09) “…of scuffle”

He says the inmate’s identity will be released once his next of kin has been notified.

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The Department of Transportation and Development is hosting a meeting tonight in Lake Charles about the I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge. Lake Charles Representative Phillip Tarver says concerned residents need to attend this meeting.

Cut 6 (11)  “…this project.”

Tarver says the new bridge is expected to be constructed just north of the current structure and the route to the bridge for the most part will not change, but there are concerns about the transition into Westlake.

Cut 7 (08)  “…is safer.”

Tarver says approximately 90-thousand cars use the Calcasieu River Bridge daily.

The cost of the bridge is estimated to be $1.5 billion and Tarver says the legislature has already allocated one billion for the project. As for the remaining amount needed he says there are differing opinions on how it should be funded.

Cut 8 (09)  “…toll that bridge.“

If plans continue to proceed, Tarver expects construction should begin in the next year, a year and a half.

The meeting will be from 5 until 7 at the Pryce/Miller Recreational Center.

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The executive director of the Louisiana Association of School Superintendents says Louisiana is one of only 13 states that require all high school juniors to take the ACT test. Michael Faulk says the requirement is outdated.

Cut 9 (07) “… other measures.” 

Faulk says students who are not planning on going to college shouldn’t have to take the ACT test because they are not taught classes that prepare them for it.

Cut 10 (08) “… workforce.” 

Faulk says students who aren’t preparing to go to college are also given a chance to take a test called WorkKeys. He says only students who are planning to go to college should be required to take the ACT test.

Cut 11 (12)  “…ACT exam.”

Faulk says when students who are not prepared to take the ACT tests have to take it, their low scores drag down the state’s overall average, which has been declining for five consecutive years.

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A large portion of the state is under a tornado watch until 10 PM. The watch area covers Shreveport, Monroe, Natchitoches, Alexandria and DeRidder Mike Steele, with the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, says  the threat for tornadoes exists for south Louisiana during the overnight hours…

Cut 12 (11) “…pop up”  

Steele says this storm system moving in from Texas brings a variety of threats

Cut 13 (08) “…flash flooding”  

Steele says much of the southern half of the state is also under a flash flood watch tonight through tomorrow…..

Cut 14 (11)   “…rain falling”

Louisiana ranks 50th in the America’s Health Rankings 2022 Annual Report. Whitney Thomas reports a dramatic rise in overdose death rates is a main factor…

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Whitney Thomas”

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It’s the busiest week of the year for the post office and the deadlines for mailing cards and packages are approaching. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”

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The governor’s office announces a public-private partnership that will result in a one-point-eight billion dollar port expansion in the New Orleans area. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The United Health foundation has released its America’s Health Rankings for 2022 and Louisiana is ranked dead last at 50. A major reason for Louisiana’s poor ranking is that drug deaths rose by 50% between 2019 and 2020.

United Health Foundation Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ravi Johar says Louisiana has a high premature death rate.

Cut 4 (06)  “…drug deaths”

The report highlights improvements, challenges, and disparities in the health and well-being of Americans across all 50 states. Johar says the state also suffers with a high prevalence of physical inactivity with a 30% rate.

Cut 5 (11) “…that sort.”

Louisiana also ranks low for STD rate, high risk HIV behaviors, and 48th for teen birth. Dr. Johar says the report serves an important purpose.

Cut 6 (10)  “…to address .” 

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This week is expected to be the busiest week of the year for the United States Postal Service. The deadline for mailing greeting cards and first-class packages, if you want them to arrive before Santa, is December 17^th. USPS spokesperson David Walton says you’ll want to have things ready to ship by Saturday if not sooner.

Cut 7 (08) “…the holidays.”

The postal service typically hires extra workers for the holiday season, but Walton says they didn’t have to hire as many because they increased their number of full-time employees throughout the year. Walton says so far things are running as smoothly as possible.

Cut 8 (09)  “…of year.”

And because the post office is expecting 250 million people to visit post offices during the holiday season this year some post offices have extended hours for customers to drop off packages and delivery workers are working longer days also.

Cut 9 (09)  “…time change.”

The deadline for Priority Mail Express Military service is Friday, December 16^th. The deadline for Priority Mail is December 19^th and for Priority Mail Express the deadline is December 23^rd.

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St. Tammany Parish leaders have placed a time capsule inside the Slidell Museum featuring items from the COVID pandemic, like toilet paper, a mask, a Covid-19 test, letters from students, and news s coverage of the surge in cases and deaths. Slidell Mayor Greg Cromer says the time capsule should remain locked for 100 years

Cut 10 (06) “…we faired.” 

The collection also showcases things like horrific death tolls, the start of quarantine, and software such as zoom. But Cromer says parish leaders 100 years from now will also learn how show how resilient people were through the pandemic

Cut 11 (09)  “…but forever.”

Cromer says this pandemic changed his appreciation for first responders, educators, and hospital workers. The mayor says 100 years from now he wants people to know… 

Cut 12 (11) “…apart of.”

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Plans are in place to build a one-point-eight billion dollar state-of-the-art container facility on the Mississippi River in St. Bernard Parish that would create more than 17-thousand new jobs by 2050. Port NOLA President Brandy Christian says a large marine terminal operator called Ports America and Switzerland-based Mediterranean Shipping Company are the private investors

Cut 13 (08) “…make it a reality.”

The governor’s office says the construction of the terminal will be supported by a substantial commitment from Port NOLA, as well as state and federal funding sources.

Christian says the facility will be capable of handling ultra-large container vessels which will help Louisiana attract new investment from companies competing globally

Cut 14 (10)  “…by container”

Governor John Bel Edwards says this port expansion will benefit manufacturing, agribusiness and energy workers. Christian says the new Louisiana International Terminal will be able to serve vessels of all sizes…

Cut 15 (11)  “…through container shipping”

The U-S Army Corps of Engineers is conducting an environmental review process. Barring unforeseen delays, construction would begin in 2025 and the first berth would open in 2028.

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There’s an enhanced risk for severe weather for most of north Louisiana and all of central Louisiana this afternoon and tonight. State Climatologist Barry Keim says tornadoes will be possible…

Cut  16 (07)  “..southeast Louisiana” 

Keim says make sure your wireless emergency alerts are turned on ahead of the expected severe weather…

Cut 17 (10) “….the situation” 

A Republican will lead the city of Shreveport for the first time in more than 20 years. Jeff Palermo has more on Saturday’s stunning results in the Shreveport mayoral run-off…

Cut 1(29)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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If you were confused by the proposed constitutional amendments on Louisiana’s ballot this year, experts think they have figured out why. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m  Marsanne Golsby”

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Republican Tom Arceneaux defeated Democrat Greg Tarver in Saturday’s Shreveport mayoral run-off election. Arceneaux received 56-percent of the vote to Tarver’s 44-percent. LSU Shreveport political science professor Jeffrey Sadow says Arceneaux did a better job in getting his base to the polls…

Cut 3 (06) “…ten points better” 

Arceneaux is an attorney and former Shreveport councilman. Tarver will remain a state senator representing a portion of Caddo Parish.

Arceneaux’s win over Tarver, a Black Democrat, is considered an upset since 57-percent of the city’s residents are Black. But Sadow says Tarver has a lot of detractors…

Cut 4 (10)  “…to many enemies” 

With Arceneaux’s election, Shreveport, Monroe and Alexandria are led by white mayors, despite a majority Black population in those cities. Sadow says current Shreveport mayor Adrian Perkins is unpopular and similar situations occurred in Monroe and Alexandria, where Friday Ellis and Jacques Roy are the mayors…

Cut 5 (12) “…go together”

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Saturday voters added three more constitutional amendments to Louisiana’s 48-year-old constitution. Over the years, voters have been asked to consider 308 amendments. As of Saturday, they have approved 206 of them.

Public Affairs Research Council Steven Procopio says PAR has struggled to find a pattern that explains voter behavior.

Cut 6 (08)  “…passed.”

He says one thing is clear:  the number of people who bother to vote on proposed amendments is less than the bigger races at the top of the ballot. PAR says since 2012, when Louisiana had major statewide races at the top of the ballot, at least 2 percent, and sometimes more than 6 percent fewer people  voted on the first amendment compared to those voting for president, senator, or governor.

Cut 7 (09)  “…dont know.”

Procopio says there are too many proposed amendments and they’re too complicated. PAR puts out guides before each election to try to help, but he says PAR’s research can only do so much.

Cut 8 (08)  “…super laws“

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The average price of a gallon of regular gas in the Bayou State today is $2.84. That’s quite a drop compared to this time six months when the state recorded its highest average at $4.56 a gallon. Triple A spokesperson Nick Chabbari says today’s average is down about 45 cents from a month ago.

Cut 9 (09) “… this year.” 

Chabarri credits market stability for the continued drop in prices at the pump.

Cut 10 (08) “…oil prices.” 

He says the Russian invasion of Ukraine was largely responsible for the disruption in the global oil supply, especially during the summer months, but that appears to have stabilized.

Barring any major disruptions in the market, Chabarri believes we will continue to see gas prices drop.

Cut 11 (10)  “…gasoline demand.”

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The LaSalle Parish Sheriff’s Office is offering a $5,000 reward to try to solve a murder that happened two years ago in Jena. Detective Brant King says on October 23^rd, 2020, deputies found Leon Turner dead of an apparent gunshot wound.

Cut 12 (07) “…black pants” 

King says they need the public’s help because they haven’t had any recent tips and want to bring some closure to the victim’s family.

Cut 13 (05) “…come forward”  

To phone in an anonymous tip, call 318-992-7300.

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There was a shooting at the courthouse in Franklin this morning, but officials are releasing very few details. St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson David Spencer says it happened inside a courtroom just before 9:00 am and State Police is handling the investigation.

Cut 14 (08)   “…more information.”

Spencer would only confirm one person was shot, and State Police would release more information as it becomes available.

Cut 15 (03) “…by ambulance.”

Our affiliate KQKI is reporting there was a struggle in the courtroom between a deputy and a person in custody and the individual who struggled with the officer was fatally shot. State Police is handling the investigation.

Louisiana is seeing Covid cases rise, and the worst flu season in 5 years. Michelle Southern reports now is the time to get updated on vaccines before the holidays…:

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern.”

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In Saturday’s election, 30-year-old political newcomer Davante Lewis defeated three-term incumbent Lambert Boissiere for a seat on the Louisiana Public Service Commission. Both are Democrats. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon is hopeful another incentive program will alleviate the state’s insurance crisis. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Covid cases are on the rise and flu is at its highest level in 5 years, so the Louisiana Department of Health is strongly encouraging residents to get boosters and vaccines before holiday gatherings. LDH reported nearly 4500 new Covid cases in its last count. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter…:

Cut 4 (13)  “…COVID-19.”

Kanter says at the start of the month, over 10% of healthcare visits in Louisiana were for flu-like illness. He says now is the time to take precautions…:

Cut 5 (12) “…severe disease.”

The updated COVID-19 boosters are formulated to offer continued protection against the original strain while also offering new protection against the Omicron and other variants. Kanter says getting the shots now will give your body time to bolster immunity before the height of gatherings…:

Cut 6 (12)  “…holidays.” 

Louisiana residents should also consider getting tested ahead of gatherings. Home testing kits are widely available or you can call 211 to find a test site near you.

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It would only make sense that the state’s favorite crustacean is the topic of ongoing research at Nicholls State. Biosciences Associate Professor Chris Bonvillain says they’ve been looking at how water quality and low oxygen levels impact wild crawfish in the Atchafalaya Basin.

Cut 7 (12) “…at a time.”

And while crawfish are surviving in waters with low-oxygen levels, Bonvillain says they’re maturing smaller in size as a result.

Cut 8 (12)  “…smaller eggs.”

Preliminary studies show low oxygen produces fewer eggs and Bonvillain says the next phase of research will look at egg size. He says unhealthy crawfish tend to produce fewer eggs…

Cut 9 (05)  “…as well.”

Bonvillian says he’s also received feedback from Louisiana crawfish farmers who say they too are seeing smaller crawfish than in the past.

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Florida’s Legislature begins a special session today to address the state’s property insurance crisis. Thousands of Louisiana property owners are forced to find new private insurance carriers as many companies are either folding or no longer writing policies in Louisiana. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says a possible solution, is an incentive program, similar to the one used after Katrina and Rita, which led to new private insurance companies in Louisiana.

Cut 10 (06) “…last resort.” 

Louisiana lawmakers are waiting to see how much money the Revenue Estimating Conference says is available for such a program. The REC is meeting this week.

Donelon says yes, it’s dire but not as bad as it was after Katrina, and it’s not just that some companies have left the state entirely….

Cut 11 (07)  “…consumers.”

After Katrina and Rita, Donelon says the state faced a $23.3 billion crisis with a million claims. The last two hurricane seasons total $14 billion and 800-thousand claims.

While those without coverage are forced to turn to Citizens the state’s insurer of last resort, Donelon is hopeful incentives will resolve the insurance crisis.

Cut 12 (12) “…in Citizens today.”

At least 10 insurance companies have left the state in the last year.

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Thirty-year-old progressive policy advocate Davante Lewis unseated three term Public Service Commissioner Lambert Boissiere in a Saturday runoff election for the District Three Public Service Commission seat. Lewis is the first openly LGBTQ person to win elective office in Louisiana, but he does not think his sexual orientation was as a factor in the race.

Cut 13 (13) “…affect them.”

Lewis, of Baton Rouge,  says anger about high utility bills and a desire for more renewable energy helped him. He won with 59 percent of the vote. The fifty-seven-year-old Boissiere, of New Orleans, was supported by prominent Democrats including Congressman Troy Carter and Governor John Bel Edwards.

The race received national attention. Lewis was supported by powerful national environmental groups who mounted a massive grassroots campaign and poured money into the race.

Lewis says his first priority will be to try to reinstate a rule the PSC repealed in 2018 allowing net metering for solar power. He says net metering credits solar panel owners for the electricity they add to the grid.

Cut 14 (06)  “…credit back.”

Lewis says only two percent of the energy used in Louisiana comes from renewable sources.

Cut 15 (08)  “…the grid.”

Lewis’s election doesn’t change the commission’s political ratio. There are still three Republicans and two Democrats.

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The 2022 Prep Classic saw two of the state’s winningest coaches win a state championship. Jim Hightower has been involved in over 500 games and he’s never seen a finish like the one he experienced on Friday as his St. Thomas More Cougars rallied from 10 points down in the final two minutes to stun Lafayette Christian 52-48. Hightower says it was a wild finish…

Cut  16 (16)  “..pretty special” 

Louisiana’s winningest coach, J-T Curtis, captured his 27th state championship on Saturday night as the John Curtis Patriots blanked Brother Martin 23-0 nothing. Curtis saw his veer offense grind out a 99-yard touchdown drive in the second quarter, which set the tone…

Cut 17 (11) “….played very hard” 

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The Pelicans won their seventh straight last night as they defeated the Suns 129 to 124. New Orleans also beat Phoenix on Friday in the Smoothie King Center and with an 18-and-8 record the Pels have the best record in the Western Conference. Zion Williamson says it a nice accomplishment for December…

Cut 18 (15) “…deep team” 

Williamson has been outstanding during this seven game winning streak and he scored 35 points in yesterday’s overtime win. In O-T, Pelican fans chanted “M-V-P” when Zion was at the free throw line. Williamson says he loves feeling the love from the home fans…

Cut 19 (18) “….way they do”

Williamson has scored 30 or more points four times during this seven-game winning streak. Coach Willie Green is impressed with the former number one pick is doing, especially after missing all of last year with a foot injury…

Cut 20 (20) “…with us”

The Pels begin a three-game road trip in Utah on Tuesday.

Two 15-year-old boys are charged with making a bomb threat at Port Barre High school Monday. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 1(30)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby”

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Three members of Southern University’s Human Jukebox band were killed in a crash involving an 18-wheeler near Natchitoches last night. Brooke Thorington has the tragic details….

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A new statewide poll shows a majority of Louisianans accept climate change as a reality, but feel it’s not up to the U.S. alone to address it. John Couvillon, with JMC Analytics & Polling, says the survey of over 600 residents found a majority (42%) feel it’s a real problem…:

Cut 3 (08) “…something about it.” 

Majorities polled feel climate change contributes to the severity of hurricanes, and that congress should work to address it. However, Couvillon says, large percentages also feel it’s not only up to the U.S. to fix, and favor an alternative approach…:

Cut 4 (11)  “…heavy polluter or not.” 

The U.S. has already lowered greenhouse gas emissions (believed to aggravate warming) tremendously, while other countries have not. What’s more Couvillon says his survey revealed large numbers of us would be willing to alter our consuming habits, if it meant helping slow climate change..:

Cut 5 (14) “…higher polluting country.”

You can view the entire survey at “winwithjmc.com”, click on “blogs.”

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After responding to four overdose deaths in a 72-hour period over the weekend, police in Monroe have one suspect in custody. Detective Matt Schmitz says 47-year-old Jarrell Lee Walker has been arrested and charged with the deaths of two persons who were found deceased on December third.

Cut 6 (07)  “…illicit drug.”

Walker faces several charges including two counts of negligent homicide. Schmitz says they are still waiting on toxicology reports, and they believe fentanyl is suspected to be involved in the deaths. As for the other two overdose deaths…

Cut 7 (05)  “…other two.”

Due to the number of drug overdose deaths in such a short period, Schmitz says they are warning the public of a suspected deadly batch of fentanyl circulating in the area. And they urge those with addiction issues to seek help.

Cut 8 (08)  “…their life.“

Walker was booked and processed at the Ouachita Parish Correctional Center.

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Authorities are investigating a double traffic fatality that happened around 4 pm Tuesday in Tangipahoa Parish. Trooper William Huggins says 67-year-old John Bitter was driving a Nissan and traveling eastbound on LA Highway 40 near Highway 445 when the single-vehicle crash occurred.

Cut 9 (11) “….a tree.” 

The passenger, 64-year-old Janice Pellegrin was also killed. Both victims are from Covington.

Huggins says Bitter and Pellegrin were both properly restrained and died as a result of the crash.

Cut 10 (09) “…under investigation.” 

Huggins says the investigation will include obtaining phone records and crash data recordings. Huggins says that’s similar to a Blackbox recording on a plane and it has valuable information like…

Cut 11 (09)  “…happened.”

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Port Barre (BARRY) police have arrested two fifteen-year-old boys for allegedly making a bomb threat at Port Barre High School Monday.  Police chief Deon Boudreaux one of the boys wrote a threat on a school bathroom wall, and the other conspired with him to do it.

Cut 12 (09) “… a lot of chaos.” 

Boudreaux says one boy is charged with terrorizing, and the other with accessory to terrorizing….

Cut 13 (08) “…two guys.”  

Boudreaux says the two are in the custody of their parents because the juvenile jail is full. Port Barre High School and Middle School are on the same campus. He says similar threats were made at the middle school on November 23^rd and December first^. The chief says the two suspects arrested for the alleged high school threat are not suspects in the threats at the middle school. He says they do have some suspects in the investigation at the middle school.

Cut 14 (10)   “…expert.”

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Three Southern University band members were killed in a crash involving an 18-wheeler last night. The students were reportedly on their way home to Texas for Christmas break. Captain Tony Moran with the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office says it happened on I-49 near Natchitoches around 7 pm.

Cut 15 (09) “…situation.”

State Police are investigating and say Tyran Williams, Dylan Young, and Broderick Moore were killed while trying to change a flat tire.

Moran says multiple first responders worked the accident.

Cut  16 (07)  “…coroners office.”

Southern University is offering grief counseling to students.

The Saints suffered an absolute gut punch of a loss last night as New Orleans blew a 13-point lead to the Buccaneers and lost 17-16. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1(31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Data from the Louisiana Secretary of State show the youngest voters did not turn out heavily here in the November 8^th election as they did in other states. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby..”

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When the 118^th Congress convenes next year, members of Louisiana’s Congressional delegation assume new leadership roles. Congressman Steve Scalise will serve as House Majority Leader and Representative Troy Carter will serve as Second Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus.

Cut 3 (12) “…will assume.” 

Congresswoman Julia Letlow will serve on House Appropriations. Congressman Clay Higgins, a ranking member of Homeland Security, could possibly chair that committee. Carter says these roles says will allow Louisiana to be uniquely positioned to have a seat at the table…

Cut 4 (09)  “…of Louisiana.” 

Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves will move into a key role on Transportation and Infrastructure and Rep Mike Johnson has a pivotal role on the Judiciary Committee. And while Carter is the lone Democrat representing the state in DC, he’s very proud of the roles other members will serve in Congress.

Cut 5 (08) “…best for Louisiana.”

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Political analysts are still examining the reason the expected red wave did not happen in national elections. ULM political science professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says the youngest voters had a key impact

Cut 6 (10)  “…thirty years.”

But numbers we’ve acquired from the Louisiana Secretary of State show that didn’t happen in Louisiana. Here, the youngest voters had the lowest turnout, and the oldest had the highest. Stockley says that’s because the Louisiana ballot was humdrum compared to those in other states.

Cut 7 (11)  “…economic issues.”

In Louisiana, numbers show a clear progression of higher turnout through the age groups, from a low of just 28 percent amongst voters ages 18 to 20, to a high of 66 percent amongst voters 65 and older. Stockley says older voters have long dominated the electorate because they are more settled in the community.

Cut 8 (09)  “…day-to-day lives.“

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Senator Bill Cassidy says he’s filed legislation to give tax relief to people impacted by Hurricane Ida. Cassidy says bill would create special tax deductions for those who suffered personal casualty losses.

Cut 9 (10) “….standard deduction.” 

Cassidy says the bill gives tax relief to those using their own money to recover from their storm losses, and he adds it will waive the standard ten percent floor for deductions. He says a homeowner who is short 30-thousand dollars would get a three thousand dollar benefit.

Cut 10 (07) “…bring relief.” 

Hurricane Ida made landfall as a Category 4 storm on Louisiana’s southeastern coast on August 29th, 2021, causing $75 billion in damage. Cassidy says he is also looking at potential legislation to help with the skyrocketing costs of the National Flood Insurance Program. And he says he is taking a close look at the way FEMA is administering the program.

Cut 11 (12)  “…risk of flooding.”

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LSU star wide receiver Kayshon Boutte says he’s staying. The New Iberia native says he’ll play his senior year at LSU instead of opting for the NFL draft. Tiger Rag Assistant Editor William Weathers says this is huge news for the Bayou Bengals 2023 season and quite a nod to head coach Brian Kelly.

Cut 12 (13) “…he’s on board.” 

At the beginning of the season, there were rumors of tension between Boutte and the new head coach, but as the season progressed, Weathers says the relationship grew and Boutte’s choice to return signifies that.

Cut 13 (09) “…right in.”  

Weathers says he believes name, image, and likeness deals play a factor in a player’s decision to stay or go early. He says Boutte’s choice to stay will inspire others on the fence to remain as well.

Cut 14 (08)   “…in store.”

While Boutte is returning to LSU, another Tigers receiver from the Acadiana area is looking to leave. Jack Beche (Besh) has entered the transfer portal after catching 16 passes this season. As a freshman, the Lafayette native led LSU in receiving with 43 catches.