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.”

______________________________________

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.”

______________________________________

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” 

________________________________________________

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.”

_______________________________________________

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.

________________________________________________

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.

______________________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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” 

___________________________________________

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.

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.”

_______________________________________________

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.

________________________________________________

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.”

__________________________________________

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.

______________________________________________

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.

______________________________________________

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”

______________________________________

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

_______________________________________________

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.

___________________________________________

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

___________________________________________________

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.

_______________________________________________

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”