The NFL Network reports Saints Coach Sean Payton is not committed to returning to the sidelines next season. David Grubb on whether Payton will be back for his 16th season…

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m David Grubb.”

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LAdualEnrollment.com hopes to encourage more students to take advantage of dual enrollment and advance their college or tech school degrees. Brooke Thorington

Cut 2 (34)…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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The number of COVID patients in the hospital has dropped. The Louisiana Health Department reports 2,304 people are in hospital with COVID, a decrease of 177 from last Friday. President of Ochsner Health, Warner Thomas, says 64-percent of their COVID patients are unvaccinated, 30-percent have two shots, but no booster and only six percent are boosted…

Cut 3 (07) “…avoiding hospitalization.”

The state reported 51 more COVID deaths today, bringing the virus’s death toll to 15,374.

Thomas says staffing has been a major challenge over the last 45 days as a result of the Omicron surge…

Cut 4 (11) “…entire system.”

Thomas says based on their data the peak number of hospitalizations as a result of the Omicron surge was reached nearly two weeks ago in New Orleans and for other regions of the state…

Cut 5 (11) “…plateau”

_________________________________________

With the Saints not in the playoffs for the first time in five seasons, there are questions about what’s next for the franchise, starting with coach Sean Payton. An NFL Network report says Payton has not committed to returning next season, but Saints insider Mike Detillier says his gut tells him Payton will be back next season.

 Cut 6 (12) “…in 2022.” 

The NFL Network says they made multiple attempts to reach out to Payton for comment, but the requests were not returned.  Detillier doesn’t see much to read into Payton’s current silence, but he also believes that we are nearing the end of his time in New Orleans.

Cut 7 (15) “…a wrong read.” 

The NFL Network reports that Payton could leave the Saints for a job in TV as a football analyst. While TV networks have long viewed Payton as a potential star, Detilier doesn’t see that flirtation going anywhere just yet.

Cut 8 (10) “…he returns.”  

Saints owner Gayle Benson was asked today about Payton returning to coach the Saints in 2022 and she admits there’s uncertainty.

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The Own Your Own Health 13-week wellness challenge gets started today. The state health department organizes the competition which allows a group of people to form a team that can compete against others in step and weight loss challenges. Director of the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports Rudy Macklin…

Cut 9 (09) “…signed up.”

Macklin says there are also individual participant challenges for casual steppers and an elite individual challenge for serious fitness enthusiasts. He says in the team competition, each team picks a captain and they help keep track of the group’s steps or weight loss efforts…

Cut 10 (06)  “….email.” 

Macklin says participating individuals and teams can see how they measure up against others on the Own Your Own Health website. Participants have a chance to win a prize which will be given out every Friday. He says even though the competition starts today, you can still sign up, but do so by the end of the week…

Cut  11 (08)  “…pretty quickly”

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A website aimed at increasing dual enrollment for high school students in Louisiana seeks to inform parents and students of the benefits for all students, even those seeking a technical degree. Commissioner of Higher Education Kim Hunter Reed says LA Dual Enrollment-dot-com will officially launch Tuesday.

Cut 12 (11) “…near them.”  

Dual enrollment allows high school students to take one course and receive credit hours for both high school and college at the same time.

Reed says their last annual report indicated approximately 20,000 students were participating in dual enrollment and about 64-percent of students graduate with at least one dual enrollment course. She says they want to build on that momentum.

Cut 13 (11) “…or both.”

Reed says dual enrollment is both affordable and accessible and can also reduce one’s time spent in college because they’ve already completed courses in high school.

Cut 14 (07)  “…in high school.” 

A leading provider of online health care to women is now available in Louisiana. Kevin Gallagher reports on what “Nurx” has to offer…:

Cut 1 (36) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Tax season officially begins today, as filers can begin sending in their returns. David Grubb has more…:

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m David Grubb.” 

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Political director for the Louisiana Federation of Teachers says lawmakers need to finally address the concerns of teachers or even more will leave the profession. Brooke Thorington explains

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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A leading provider of online health care to women is now available in Louisiana. Nurx (pronounced: NU-rux) delivers online consultations with medical professionals, pharmacy services and specialized care; all via the Internet. Dr. Adrienne Robertson is one of the Nurx medical providers. She says they are ready to assist with a number of women’s health needs…:

Cut 4 (14) “…anti-aging services.” 

Dr. Robertson says Nurx will help meet a growing market for digital remote consulting and treatment of things like basic skincare, migraine, birth control, HIV and STDs (something Louisiana has a lot of, but some women are reluctant to see a doctor for.) She says a typical visit to Nurx.com, or the Nurx app, starts with a questionnaire about the patient and the problem. She says real doctors, like her, review the information and get back in touch within a couple of days…:

Cut 5 (13) “…mailed to your home.”

Nurx is already available in 32 other states, with great success. Robertson says telemedicine from Nurx fulfills a need in the marketplace and is friendly to those with Medicare, Medicaid or group coverage…:

Cut 6 (10) “…who aren’t insured.”

For more go to nurx.com.

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Today marks the beginning of tax season as Louisiana residents can begin filing their state and federal returns. Though the process can seem complicated, Certified Public Accountant Conner Brown says a little information can go a long way to helping you maximize your return and minimize what you owe.

Cut 7 (7) “…taxable income.”

Many families received Child Tax Credits this year due to the pandemic. Brown says that doesn’t necessarily make them ineligible to get more credit on their returns.

Cut 8 (16)  “…able to do that.”

Due to Emancipation Day, this year’s returns will be due three days later than usual, April 18th Even with that, Brown advises taxpayers to be ready to file on time or pay the price…

Cut 9 (14)  “…to be late.”

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Cynthia Posey, Legislative Director for the Louisiana Federation of Teachers says she’s hopeful lawmakers will finally address the needs of educators, if not she fears the teacher shortage will only continue to grow. Posey says education reforms over the last decade are only hurting students and driving away teachers.

Cut 10 (12) “…isn’t working.”

Posey says among the concerns is the amount of paperwork teachers are burdened with in addition to low pay. She says it’s difficult for teachers to go to the capitol and express their concerns because committee meetings are held during school hours and teachers endure another level of scrutiny.

Cut  11 (12)  “…legislative committee.”  

Posey says teachers have been leaving the profession because they are no longer allowed to educate and are expected to teach so students will pass standardized tests.  And says the pandemic was the last straw for those who were considering leaving to do so even sooner.

And the pool of future teachers is getting smaller. Posey says more parents are discouraging college students from even entering the curriculum.

Cut 12 (11) “…the case.”

While many schools are asking retired teachers to return to the classroom to assist with the shortage, Posey warns the reason they left the profession, to begin with, is still being ignored. She fears most who are asked will not return until their concerns over reforms, paperwork, and pay are addressed.

____________________________________________

Similar to hospitals nursing homes are feeling the impacts of Omicron. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says COVID cases are not only impacting residents but those who take care of them.

Cut 13 (08) “…settings are.”

Last week the health department reported more than 1,000 cases among nursing home residents, an increase of about 300 from the week before. About 1,300 nursing home staff were absent due to COVID last week. Kanter says however there is good news to report among long-term care facilities.

Cut 14 (10)  “…residents.”

Kanter credits a high vaccination/booster rate among nursing home residents as to why COVID deaths have not seen a spike.

Cut 15 (10)  “…to be.”

As for nursing home staff, only 16-percent are reportedly boosted.

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LSU men’s basketball team is mired in its first three-game losing streak since January 2018 after losing to 24th ranked Tennessee on Saturday 64-50. The Tigers fell behind 14-nothing to begin the game. LSU Coach Will Wade called it a disappointing performance…

Cut  16 (14)  “…all season.”

LSU shot 39-percent from the field. Tari Eason had 16 points, while Brandon Murray had 15 points. Wade says he’ll need to make some changes to jump start the Tigers struggling offense. Murray on what they are doing wrong…

Cut 17 (17) “ ..offense right.” 

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Louisiana Tech had its 18-game home winning streak and its seven-game overall winning streak snapped after losing to UAB 83-76 to UAB inside the Thomas Assembly Center. The loss drops the Bulldogs to 6-and-1 in Conference USA and they are tied with the Blazers for the West Division lead. Bulldogs Coach Eric Konkol says they will need to bounce back…

Cut 18 (18) “ …works.” 

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Joe Burrow and the Cincinnati Bengals are one game away from the Super Bowl after upsetting the Tennessee Titans 19-16. Burrow was sacked nine times but threw for 348 yards. But it was the Bengals defense that got a huge interception to set up a game-winning field goal. Burrow says it feels great to win a playoff game on the road…

Cut 19 (13)_“…unbelievable” 

Cincinnati will play in the franchise’s third AFC championship game on Sunday. They’ll be underdogs, but Burrow doesn’t see it that way…

Cut 20 (13) “…coming for it all”  

A new partnership aims to expand career opportunities in Louisiana’s thriving maritime industry. David Grubb has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m David Grubb.”

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The state adds COVID reinfections to the dashboard and the Omicron variant has caused them to grow considerably. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 2 (34)…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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Today’s cold temperatures are just the beginning of a frigid weekend in Louisiana. State climatologist Barry Keim says high temperatures will only be in the 40s today and tomorrow

Cut 3 (04) “…this time of year.”

Keim says hard freeze and freeze warnings are posted for Louisiana beginning tonight and lasting into tomorrow morning…

Cut 4 (10) “…across the whole state.”

Keim says it will begin to warm up on Sunday, but until then take the usual precautions when it gets this cold…

Cut 5 (10) “…exposed lines.”

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A new partnership between the Crescent River Port Pilots and the New Orleans-Baton Rouge Steamship Pilots Associations aims to increase awareness of career opportunities in the state’s maritime industry for African-Americans and other minorities. Captain Roy Vance believes the industry has flown under the radar for too long.

 Cut 6 (13) “…life-changing jobs.” 

Vance also said that these jobs are not limited to on-ship positions. People from any number of backgrounds have the opportunity to find a job suited to their skills.

Cut 7 (11) “…to choose from.” 

The newly formed alliance will be making an aggressive effort to increase awareness and most importantly, fill those jobs.

Cut 8 (12) “…get the word out.”  

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The state health department is now reporting reinfections on its COVID dashboard. There are more than 49-thousand in Louisiana now and almost 14-hundred were added Friday. State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says the state is following the CDC’s definition.

Cut 9 (12) “…as a reinfection.”

Reinfections are also included in the total case count which surpassed one million this week since the pandemic began. Kanter says they’ve been tracking reinfections since they started but Omicron caused reinfections to surge.

Cut 10 (10)  “….boosters.” 

Kanter says studies show Omicron evades the protection of just the two-dose mRNA vaccines, but once you are boosted it brings you to the level of protection you had with Delta.

Cut  11 (07)  “…reinfections.”

Boosters are advised for ages 12 and up, at least five months after the second dose of either the Pfizer of Moderna vaccines and at least two months after a Johnson and Johnson vaccine.

_______________________________________________

Temperatures will get down to the low-to-mid 20s in southeast Louisiana this weekend where strawberries are produced. But Tangipahoa Parish Associate Extension Agent Mary Helen Ferguson says producers are prepared for below-freezing temps…

Cut 12 (11) “..protection.”  

Before this weekend, Louisiana was experiencing a mild winter, which Ferguson says has allowed some strawberry growers to begin picking berries…

Cut 13 (09) “…back on.”

The mild winter has allowed for boil-worthy crawfish in January. But Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says this weekend’s cold weather will make it difficult for crawfish farmers to catch mudbugs and they don’t grow when it’s this cold…

Cut 14 (07)  “…in action.” 

Strain says at least high temperatures are getting into the 40s today and Saturday, so this arctic blast is just a hiccup for what should be a great crawfish season…

Cut 15 (11) “…crawifsh” 

After missing two years due to COVID, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is back this spring. Kevin Gallagher has lineup highlights…:

Cut 1 (27) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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COVID numbers are indicative the state may have reached a peak,  but stats also show the Omicron variant has been the hardest one yet for children. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

___________________________________

According to the 2022 Roadmap of State Highway Safety Laws, Louisiana ranks 9^th in the nation. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is back for 2022; at the Fairgrounds and on its traditional dates.  Jazz Fest director and organizer Quint Davis says this year’s roster of performers has something for everyone…:

Cut 4 (10) “…Stevie Knicks, Billy strings, Nora Jones.” 

There was no 2020 Jazz Fest due to the pandemic, and a planned FALL Jazz Fest for 2021 fell apart amid the Delta surge. Davis says it is back after three years, and this year’s top headliners are The Who, Foo Fighters, Jimmy Buffett, Lionel Richie, Willie Nelson and dozens more. Davis says a number of artists planned their other dates AROUND being at Jazz Fest’s big return…like one superstar in particular…:

Cut 5 (11) “…we’re gonna be there.”

Back to its traditional dates – the last weekend in April and the first weekend in May – Jazz Fest has put reserved special admission packages and weekend pass tickets on sale now. Individual day tickets will go on sale soon. Davis says he is deeply grateful to the dozens of artists who’ve stayed by Jazz fest during its hiatus. He says most of them wouldn’t have it any other way…:

Cut 6 (11) “…like three years now.”

NOJazzFest.com for more information on acts and tickets.

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State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says COVID numbers hint that the state might be close to peaking with cases but yet it’s still too early to tell.

Cut 7 (12) “…very, very high.”

On Thursday the state reported 14,706 new cases and the state is expected to reach at least 1.1 million total cases today week after eclipsing a million earlier in the week.

Kanter says however the Omicron variant proves it’s much harder on children than others. He says this past week 33 children were admitted to the hospital with COVID and for the month of January 199 children have been admitted.

Cut 8 (12)  “…be vaccinated.”

Omicron is also impacting children with multisystem inflammatory syndrome, a condition where different body parts can become inflamed, including the heart, lungs, and brain. Kanter says we added four cases this week.

Cut 9 (06)  “…marker as well.”

Because the highest percentage of pediatric cases are among ages four and younger, which are ineligible to be vaccinated Kanter says it’s imperative those around them be vaccinated and masked to protect them.

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Louisiana receives a top grade when it comes to laws that prevent auto crashes. Allison Kennedy, spokesperson for Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety says their report looks at 16 different factors that are statistically are proven to reduce traffics accidents and Louisiana has 10 of those laws on the books.

Cut 10 (07) “…passengers.”

But Kennedy also notes statistically only half of drivers and passengers are properly restrained in crashes

Areas, where Louisiana needs improvement, include booster seat laws, which Kennedy says are critical for child safety, and graduated drivers’ licenses.

Cut  11 (08)  “…impaired driving crashes.”  

According to DOTD 997 people were killed last year in traffic crashes, an alarming increase from previous years. Kennedy says Louisiana is not immune because traffic fatalities are up nationwide. And according to a recent survey Kennedy says 75-percent of respondents were unaware of the increase however…

Cut 12 (10) “…being done.”

Kennedy says another bright point for Louisiana is helmet laws for operators and passengers.

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Louisiana is dealing with its coldest air of the winter as overnight temperatures over the next few days will dip well below the freezing mark. Even the Houma-Thibodaux area could see lows in the mid-20s this weekend. The state has reported ten home fire deaths this year and Governor John Bel Edwards doesn’t want to see any more anytime soon…

Cut 13 (04) “…generators.”

Edwards is also asking Louisiana residents to be good a neighbor, check on those who are elderly during this frigid weather…

Cut 14 (06)  “…again.”

Light freezing rain was a possibility in south Louisiana during the overnight hours. Edwards says the state department of transportation has crews ready to address any slick roads, but he’s asking motorists to be careful…

Cut 15 (10)  “…driving.”

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Last week, former LSU quarterback Joe Burrow led the Cincinnati Bengals to their first playoff victory in more than 30 years. Now, as he prepares to face the top-seeded Tennesse Titans in the AFC’s divisional round, Burrow says that postseason pressure and big games are nothing new to him.

Cut  16 (10)  “…situation before.”

Already a candidate for MVP in his second season, Burrow says that his focus on preparation is what’s made the biggest impact on his early success.

Cut 17 (12) “ …confidence in.” 

Burrow has put up some eye-popping numbers this year, but knows he hasn’t gotten the NFL figured out just yet.

Cut 18 (10) “ …see still.” 

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Louisiana Tech starts a critical three-game homestand this weekend with a battle for first place in Conference USA’s Western Division. The Bulldogs will play host to UAB riding a seven-game win streak. The Blazers were the preseason pick to win the conference title, and coach Eric Koncol knows his team will have to be at its best to hold on to that top spot.

Cut 19 (10)_“…this Saturday.” 

Tech’s early success already has fans wondering just how far the Bulldogs can go. Koncol isn’t looking too far ahead as he keeps his young team improving each day.

Cut 20 (09) “…real strengths.”  

4

Acadiana welcomed a major addition with the opening of the new terminal at Lafayette Region Airport. David Grubb has more…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m David Grubb.”

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Senate Republicans were successful in blocking a voting rights bill supported by Democrats and civil rights leaders. Jeff Palermo has local reaction…

Cut 2 (34)…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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After three years of work, and at a cost of $150 million, the new terminal at Lafayette Regional Airport officially opened to the public today. Executive Director Steven Picou couldn’t be happier with today’s debut.

Cut 3 (12) “…passengers walking through.”

Picou says the $150 million dollar facility was completed in three years, on-time and on budget.

Cut 4 (7) “…that’s amazing.”

A local one-cent sales tax collected in 2015 along with federal and state funding paid for the new terminal that has 966 parking spots, two screening lines, five departure and arrival gates and a new baggage handling system.

Picou says the new LFT terminal is 120-thousand square feet…

Cut 5 (12) “…go that direction.”

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Governor John Bel Edwards was on hand in Shreveport for the announcement of American Electric Power’s investment of $100-million to develop a transmission control center in the city.  Edwards says the plan will create 20 direct jobs with an average annual salary of $115 thousand.

 Cut 6 (11) “…northwest region.” 

The governor also announced that AEP’s new 77-thousand square foot transmission facility will be the first business to locate in the Resilient Technology Park in Shreveport.

Cut 7 (11) “…reliable electricity.” 

In addition to attracting other companies to the area, Edwards says the investment comes at a fortuitous time after much of the state experienced lengthy power losses after major winter storms and hurricanes last year.

And like the state, Edwards says AEP has made a commitment to net carbon emissions by 2050.

Cut 8 (11) “…going forward.”  

Resilient Technology Park, located near 1-20 and Greenwood Road is one of more than 100 available sites certified by LED for industrial projects.

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A voting rights bill that Democrats and civil rights leaders say is needed to protect democracy fails in the U-S Senate. Republicans oppose the legislation. Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy says this effort isn’t about protecting the right to vote, it’s about Democrats wanting to federalize elections to their advantage…

Cut 9 (09) “…Delaware.”

The outgoing chairman of the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus, Baton Rouge Representative Ted James, says Republicans are making it hard for people to cast a vote because they believe the last Presidential election was stolen…

Cut 10 (11)  “….to vote.” 

The legislation failed when Democrats could not get two Democratic senators to change their votes in order to overcome the Senate filibuster. Cassidy accusses the Biden administration of manufacturing a fake voting rights crisis to distract from the issues not being addressed…

Cut  11 (11)  “…opioid deaths”

But James says the voting rights legislation addresses last-minute closure of polling sites, voter intimidation and it would have expanded early voting and mail-in voting…

Cut 12 (12) “..to the polls.”  

_______________________________________________

Louisiana will see the coldest temperatures of the Winter over the next few days as overnight lows will drop below freezing for most of the state through Sunday morning. State Fire Marshal Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says space heaters can keep you warm, but they are fire hazards if not used properly…

Cut 13 (10) “…curtains.”

Rodrigue says do not leave candles or space heaters unattended…

Cut 14 (11)  “…with others.” 

2022 is only 20 days old and the State Fire Marshal’s office says ten people, including two children, have lost their lives in home fires.

Ag Commissioner Mike Strain is urging livestock owners to take the necessary precautions to protect their animals from these frigid temperatures.

Cut 15 (12) “…out of the weather” 

Strain says if you have outdoor cats on or near your property, make sure they are not underneath the hood of the vehicle when you crank up the engine tomorrow morning…

Cut  16 (10) “…with that.”

John Bel Edwards wants to give litter the boot. David Grubb has more on how he plans to clean up Louisiana…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m David Grubb.”

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Among some of the bills, legislators have filed for the 2022 regular session is one pertaining to homeowners’ associations. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Another blast of cold winter weather is coming our way. Is there snow, sleet or freezing rain in our future? Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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Governor John Bel Edwards is calling on all Louisianans to help beautify the state. Tuesday the Governor announced the creation of his Task Force on Statewide Litter Abatement and Beautification but says it will take all of us to make a difference…

Cut 4 (05) “…to play.” 

Governor Edwards believes that preserving the state’s natural beauty and resources is vital to a thriving Louisiana…

Cut 5 (14) “…call home.”

Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser, whose office will oversee the Task Force, sees litter as not just a quality of life issue, but an economic development one as well…

Cut 6 (14) “…our economy.”

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We’ve all heard of or might have even experienced a situation in which a homeowners association enforces its rules with one resident and not another leaving the homeowner with few options. Mandeville Representative Paul Hollis is filing legislation setting limits on an HOA’s authority.

Cut 7 (11) “…very important.”

St. Tammany Parish, which is in Hollis’ district, has one of the highest per-capita rates of residents living within an HOA-managed community in the state. Hollis found himself in a situation with his HOA when he wanted to erect a privacy fence to protect his children from a neighbor’s webcam.

Hollis says he’s heard numerous stories from residents in his district that felt their legitimate concerns were ignored by an HOA and yet other less serious infractions were enforced. Hollis acknowledges the bill can’t remedy every situation with an HOA…

Cut 8 (11) “…constitutional rights.”

And while Hollis acknowledges not all HOAs covenants are bad some associations practice selective enforcement. Hollis says his bill would restrict an HOA from the overreach of taking away your right to protect your property and family.

Cut 9 (11)  “…particular family.”

Hollis says it’s also likely that he will file a companion bill that affords property owners the ability to opt out of existing HOAs.

___________________________________________________

Get ready for another blast of cold, wintery weather across Louisiana. State Climatologist Barry Keim says Wednesday starts fairly mild, with sunshine and temperatures reaching into the 60’s and lower 70’s, but then…:

Cut 10 (12) “…at least a possibility.”

Keim says a cold front moves through later this evening and overnight, bringing a chance of possible winter precipitation to the I-20 corridor in the late-night hours…:

Cut  11 (10)  “…pretty chilly day.”  

Keim says the approaching cold front is expected to stall offshore in the Gulf, setting up the chance of some potentially hazardous winter precipitation for Thursday night and into Friday morning…:

Cut 12 (10) “…up through Alexandria.”

____________________________________________

The Biden Administration’s Website to order free at-home COVID tests is officially open at COVIDtests.gov. There’s been a huge demand for home tests with Omicron and they are extremely difficult to locate. LSU Health New Orleans Chair of Genetics Dr. Lucio Miele says better access to home tests is vital.

Cut 13 (08) “…limited worldwide.”

A PCR test is more accurate at detecting COVID, results take days because they are sent off to a lab.

Miele says you should only use a home test if you have symptoms and advises if you test negative to retest again in a few days because the rapid test has a high false-negative rate.

Cut 14 (07)  “…on these tests.”

The free tests sent via COVIDtests.gov are initially limited to four tests per household but you can also be reimbursed by your health insurance provider now, up to eight at-home tests per month, per insured individual.

Miele says because there is a shortage across the globe for tests you should reserve home tests for when you need an answer and not test for the sake of testing.

Cut 15 (08)  “…is critical.”

To order the tests online you need to enter your name, address and email to receive tracking information. Tests will ship in seven to 12 days.

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The 11th-ranked LSU Tigers will face Alabama on Wednesday night, trying to bounce back from a tough loss to Arkansas. While defense has been the team’s calling card so far this season, Will Wade is looking for his stagnant offense to execute a lot better against the Tide.

Cut  16 (20) “…over again.”

One player that has to get back on track is Tari Eason. The Tigers’ leading scorer this season hasn’t made his presence felt as of late. Wade says it’s time for that to change.

Cut 17 (22) “ …down there.” 

Wade says that the Tigers will have to utilize their depth to avoid the fatigue that has plagued them during late-game situations.

Cut 18 (14) “ …need to.” 

The website to order your free at-home coronavirus tests, at COVIDtests-dot-gov is now live. Brooke Thorington has more from a physician on the reliability of a home test.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The estranged husband of a Slidell woman who was dismembered and her body parts kept in a freezer is calling on the justice system to keep the accused killer behind bars on no bail. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (27)…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

______________________________________

Physicians advise if you are experiencing COVID symptoms to assume you have the virus and stay home. It might not be COVID but Dr. Lucio Miele, Chair of the Department of Genetics at LSU Health New Orleans says if you test negative with a home test, you’re not out of the woods just yet.

Cut 3 (12) “…bad idea.”

Because you are more likely to get a false negative with a home rapid test, it’s best to test again a few days later. Miele says the PCR test is more accurate, but it takes several days to receive results. He says having both speed and sensitivity is a difficult combination in a test.

Cut 4 (08) “…not possible.”

Miele says if you’ve been exposed you should wait five days to be tested. If you have a PCR test that’s negative in that time frame but still have symptoms you might want to be tested for other things like the flu. If you test negative with a rapid test, Miele says you need to test again days later.

Cut 5 (11) “…two-thirds of the time.”

The website COVIDtests.gov for individuals to order free home tests is now live.  You are initially limited to four tests per household.

_________________________________________

U-S Senate Democratic candidate Gary Chambers, who is one of two announced challengers to Republican John Kennedy released a campaign ad today that shows him smoking marijuana. Chambers says the goal of the ad is to destigmatize the drug and support legalization and decriminalization.

 Cut 6 (12) “…just like me” 

Luke Mixon is the other announced Democratic challenger to Kennedy, who is not in jeopardy of losing his Senate seat. Reporter Tyler Bridges is covering the Senate race for the Advocate newspaper and says it’s a bold move by Chambers to show him smoking marijuana in a campaign ad…

Cut 7 (07) “…the race.” 

Bridges has been covering political races in Louisiana for decades and admits a commercial showing a US Senate candidate smoking marijuana is unique…

Cut 8 (10) “…in Lousiana”  

______________________________________________________

The family of a Slidell mother believed to have been decapitated in New Orleans is demanding that the man suspected of killing her be held without bail. Julia Dardar’s dismembered body was found in a freezer and local artist Benjamin Beale has been charged in her death. Julia’s estranged husband Micah Dardar spoke on the steps of New Orleans City Hall…

Cut 9 (06) “…demonic”

Beale’s bond is currently at one point four million dollars. He’s facing numerous charges including second-degree murder and obstruction of justice. Micah Dardar says they are concerned that Beale’s parents have the ability to bond him out…

Cut 10 (12)  “….of this” 

Micah Dardar reported Julia missing on December 23rd. He says Julia Dardar suffered from addiction and mental health issues and he knew she was hanging around Beale, who is also known as Kelley Kirkpatrick…

Cut  11 (11)  “…too late.”

_________________________________________________

The National Weather Service says there’s the possibility of a wintry mix later this week. A strong cold front arrives tomorrow bringing the potential for strong storms late Wednesday in north Louisiana. Meteorologist Kevin Owens says behind the front is very cold air and once the temperature gets close to the freezing mark, freezing rain is possible…

Cut 12 (11) “…more information”  

The wintry mix is possible for north and central Louisiana Thursday morning and south Louisiana north of I-10 and I-12 Thursday night through Friday morning. Owens says tomorrow will start off as a mild day and then some of the coldest weather of the winter will arrive…

Cut 13 (11) “…the week.”

A Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. exhibit entitled “Carrying on the Dream” is traveling through the University of Louisiana System Campuses. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The entire coastal town of Grand Isle finally has electricity again after Hurricane Ida caused massive damage to the barrier island’s infrastructure. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (27)…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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A Dr. Martin Luther King exhibit is traveling this month and next through the University of Louisiana system campuses. The “Carrying on the Dream” exhibit is on display today and tomorrow on the campus of Louisiana Tech in Ruston. La Tech spokesperson Tonya Oaks Smith says they are fortunate to host the display today.

Cut 3 (08) “…and moving.”

The exhibit also features regional civil rights artifacts, a Civil Rights art piece, and screenings of the documentary “I am MLK Jr.” Smith says if you aren’t able to make it to La Tech’s campus…

Cut 4 (10) “…to ULL.”

Smith says the traveling exhibit is appropriate for all ages.

Cut 5 (11) “…for all of us.”

Included in the traveling exhibit is the 1966 Cadillac hearse that carried King’s body to his funeral almost 54 years ago in Memphis that was procured by exhibit sponsor Raising Cain’s CEO Todd Graves in 2018.

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Governor John Bel Edwards sent his message to Louisiana in honor of the celebration of Martin Luther King Jr’s national holiday this morning. The governor focused his words on continuing the fight for equality, specifically within our criminal justice system.

 Cut 6 (12) “…change happen” 

Edwards cited the recent posthumous pardon of Homer Plessy as an example of Louisianans working together to right a historic wrong.

Cut 7 (10) “…in Christ.” 

Though the governor sees some progress, he knows that the state still has much ground to cover in realizing Dr. King’s vision for a truly equal society.

Cut 8 (9) “…make change happen.” 

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Power has finally been restored to the coastal town of Grand Isle four and half months after Hurricane Ida. Grand Isle Mayor David Camardelle says the electricity has arrived just in time for the cold weather and credits Entergy for its non-stop efforts…

Cut 9 (06) “…the island”

Camardelle says after Ida’s landfall state agencies and Entergy worked together to put most of the power infrastructure underground, which could have a huge impact when the next hurricane comes…

Cut 10 (10)  “ the marsh

Camardelle says the progress is slow getting Grand Isle back to where it was, but it is steady. He says there’s a lot of clean-up to do and the key to moving recovery along is getting their residents back on the island…

Cut  11 (09)  “…their life.”

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Lafayette Police say a fatal hit-and-run crash Sunday night led to another traffic crash when a woman drove through a police barricade where officers were investigating the hit and run. Lafayette Police Sergeant Robin Green says the woman was driving erratically…:

Cut 12 (09) “…nick of time.”  

The woman has been identified as 29-year-old Dominique Mills of Scott. She’s been charged with second-offense Operating While Intoxicated. Green says one officer received minor injuries.

As for the original hit and run in the 2600 block of Ambassador Caffery, the pedestrian victim is identified as 57-year old pedestrian Donald Jackson of Scott. Green says no arrests have been made.

Cut 13 (09) “…been made.”

Green reminds motorists to be extra careful when driving at night and to pay better attention when on the road.

Cut 14 (10)  “…when driving.” 

Patients are complaining the cost of legal medical cannabis puts it’s out of their reach. Is it time to further expand medical marijuana laws? Kevin Gallagher reports…:

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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A study finds that hurricanes in 2020 and 2021 caused 579-million dollars in damages to the Louisiana fishing industry. Michelle Southern has the story…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Michelle Southern” 

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A new study from LSU and the University of Florida compared shark attacks and moon phases and they found a trend. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Now that medical marijuana is available in a smokable form, some are complaining of the high price. One of the state’s 9 cannabis pharmacies is asking between $440 and $480 per ounce for the herb. Gretna Representative Joe Marino chairs the state’s Medical Marijuana Commission, and says the high price is due to the limited supply from only two growing operations…:

Cut 4 (11) “…to be the intent.” 

When first approved in 2015, only two cultivators were allowed, with a maximum of 10 “pharmacies”. There are currently nine. Marino says lawmakers clearly did not foresee expanding to allow smokable weed under medical cannabis when they first passed the law. Demand is heavy, but the high cost is a deterrent. Marino says having a cannabis monopoly in place puts the medicine out of the average person’s reach…:

Cut 5 (13) “…where it can be sold?”

Medical cannabis is rarely covered by health insurance.

Neighbor states with medical cannabis have anywhere from 8 to a dozen cultivators allowed, compared to Louisiana’s two, and their average prices are lower. Marino’s Medical Marijuana Commission will meet during the upcoming Redistricting Session, to discuss supply, demand, and patient concerns. He asks – if one regards medical cannabis as “medicine” – what other medicine does the state limit the number of companies that can produce it and where it can be obtained?

Cut 6 (07) “…expand this program.”

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries says the hurricanes in 2020 and 2021 produced 579-million dollars in damages to the state’s fishing industry. LDWF biologist administrator Jason Froeba says a comprehensive study looked at monetary losses for infrastructure which includes vessels and revenue…

Cut 7 (07) “…that nature.”

The total amount of damages from the hurricanes to infrastructure was 304-million. Froeba says Hurricane Ida accounted for 70-percent of that 304-million…

Cut 8 (10) “…fishing industry members.”

Froeba says wind was the primary driver for the damages to the fishing industry from the 2020 and 2021 hurricanes, while flooding was a major source of destruction in 2005. He says this report could convince Congress that the state’s fishing industry needs federal assistance…

Cut 9 (09)  “…Louisiana’s fisheries.”

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Louisiana is expected to pass the one-million mark in total COVID cases this week. Many are hoping the peak of the Omicron surge is near. Children younger than 18 represent 27-percent of all COVID cases reported on Friday and State Health Officer Doctor Joe Kanter says that’s a possible sign the peak could be near

Cut 10 (11) “…prior surges.”

Kanter says based on what they’ve seen in other parts of the world, Omicron rages and then fades away almost as fast as it arrived…

Cut  11 (12)  “…right now.”  

Kanter wishes he can provide an answer on when the Omicron peak will arrive, but there’s no good modeling to predict this…

Cut 12 (10) “…I’ve seen.”

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The next time you want to impress your friends during Shark Week you can tell them that shark attacks are related to lunar phases. New research from LSU and the University of Florida compared attacks with the lunar phases and LSU Associate Professor Steve Midway says there appears to be a connection.

Cut 13 (10) “…closer to the new moon.”

Midway says even though very few shark attacks occur in US waters they wanted to gain a better understanding of why and when they happen. Midway says the moon’s influence on attacks is not from illumination because the vast majority of incidents take place during the day.

Cut 14 (08)  “…magnetic fields.”

And while it’s still too early to determine if the moon is the predominant influencer of shark attacks, Midway says he still advises against swimming in shark-infested waters no matter what lunar phase.

Cut 15 (12)  “…to shark attacks.”

You can read the entire paper in the journal, Frontiers in Marine Science

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The NFL playoffs continue tonight with one more wild card game as the Rams host the Cardinals. Former LSU Tiger Odell Beckham Junior will be playing in his second playoff game and his first season since the 2016 season with the Giants…

Cut  16 (16) “…good feeling”

The Bengals won their first playoff game in 31 years as Cincinnati held off the Raiders 26-19. Quarterback Joe Burrow threw two touchdown passes in the win…

Cut 17 (13) “ .next one” 

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The LSU men’s basketball team will likely drop in the polls today after suffering an upset loss to unranked Arkansas on Saturday. The Razorbacks went on a 17-2 run to finish the game and defeated the 12th ranked Tigers 65-58. LSU Coach Will Wade says the Hogs made the plays down the stretch and they didn’t…

Cut 18 (08) “ ..needed to be” 

Eric Gaines had 14 points to lead LSU, while Tari Eason and Alex Fudge each had 13 points. It was the second straight game LSU played without starting point guard Xavier Pinson, who has a sprained knee. Wade will not use Pinson’s injury as an excuse…

Cut 19 (25)_“…nice job” 

The loss ended LSU’s three-game winning streak. Wade says they couldn’t overcome their weaknesses.

Cut 20 (19) “..you deserve”  

A major cold front will enter the state Saturday bringing rain, wind, and near-freezing temps. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The state announces it will receive a billion dollars over the next five years from the federal government to rebuild bridges. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (31)…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Fans of Betty White are giving the beloved actress a true Mardi Gras send-off on what would have been the day before her 100^th birthday Sunday. Retired New Orleans realtor, Santa T Claus says it began as a passing thought the day after her death and has now grown into a full-blown parade and fundraiser.

Cut 3 (04) “…think now.”

White’s birthday would have been on Monday but due to the Martin Luther King holiday, the parade was moved to Sunday. Claus says because the first lady of television loved animals’ attendees are more than welcome to bring their well-behaved four-legged friends. The parade begins at 4 o’clock at the corner of Bourbon and Canal.

Cut 4 (10) “…Jackson Square(x2).”

Claus says attendees are also encouraged to bring a pet toy to donate and they are also raising money for the Villalobos Rescue Center in memory of the actress.

Cut 5 (09) “…to California.”

It’s not the first time a Mardi Gras parade has memorialized an out-of-town celebrity, in 2017 actress Carrie Fisher was honored, and in 2016 both David Bowie and Prince received memorial parades.

For more information visit FaceBook forward-slash Santa Claus New Orleans

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries reports thousands of fish – and over one hundred birds, snakes and other animals – died as a result of a pipeline spill in St. Bernard Parish. LDWF Oil Response Coordinator Laura Carver says 75 alligators have also been captured for rehabilitation…

 Cut 6 (06) “…for rehab” 

The spill from a severely corroded & ruptured pipeline was discovered in late December. Most of the diesel fuel spilled into two artificial ponds. Cleanup work continues. Carver says the spill killed 25-hundred fish…

Cut 7 (05) “…shad.” 

Dozens of snakes and birds were also killed.

Carver says in addition to rehabbing alligators, they are also rehabbing birds, snakes and turtles…

Cut 8 (07) “…rehabilitation center.” 

Carter says at least cleanup work is moving quickly since the spill was contained to a small area. Collins Pipeline Company operates the pipeline and federal records reportedly show the operator delayed needed repairs on the pipeline.

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Get your winter coat ready because it’s going to be a chilly weekend as a cold front enters the state Saturday. According to State Climatologist, Barry Keim areas north of I-20 could experience a wintery mix of precipitation tomorrow.

Cut 9 (13) “…Floriday parishes”

Keim says Saturday will be a big transitional day with rain and possibly a wintery mix in the northern parishes.

Cut 10 (08)  “…most of the state.”

Keim says the wind chill will make it feel even colder on Sunday and you’ll need that extra blanket for a few more nights because it will be even colder on Monday

Cut  11 (10)  “…behind that.”

Keim says it shouldn’t be a deep enough freeze to wrap your pipes but definitely bring in the pets and plants.

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The governor’s office announces Louisiana is receiving a billion dollars to repair crumbling bridges The money comes from the recently approved Infrastructure Law. DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson says the federal government allocated the dollars based on need and Louisiana is getting a big slice of the pie…

Cut 12 (08) “…our condition.”  

The state owns 78-hundred bridges with nearly 800 of them needing to be replaced or in need of major repair. About another 800 locally owned bridges are also in desperate need of rehab or replacement.

Wilson says the state will spend about 200-million of the one billion this year and they’ve released a list of bridge projects that will see funding this year…

Cut 13 (11) “…this year”

Among the projects that will see funding…The Jimmie Davis Bridge Replacement in Caddo Parish, I-20 Orange Street Overpass Repair in Ouachita Parish, and Berwick Bay Bridge Rehabilitation in St. Mary Parish.

Wilson says Louisiana will receive the one-billion dollars over the next five years. He says more planning is needed to use any of it on a new Mississippi River Bridge in Baton Rouge, but for Lake Charles…

Cut 14 (12)  “…one project” 

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The State Fire Marshal’s office says a Lacombe man died after going back into a burning home to rescue his pets. Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says the home caught fire early Tuesday morning. Two people in their 60’s made it safely outside, but the man went back inside to save the family dogs…:

Cut 15 (07) “…died a day later.” 

The 60-year-old man’s name is withheld for now. He died in the hospital a day after the fire. Firefighters say the damage was too bad to determine if the home had working smoke detectors. Rodrigue has this advice for everyone who finds themselves escaping a burning building..:

Cut  16 (12) “…if we lose that.”