Today marks one year since the January 6^th riot at the U.S. Capitol that some say was an attempted insurrection. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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Construction is underway in St. Bernard Parish on the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority-backed marsh creation project on Lake Borgne. Erik Piccoli has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Erik Piccoli.” 

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The oldest living World War II veteran and Norwood, Louisiana native passed away at the age of 112 on Tuesday. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 3 (35) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Today marks one year since the riot at the U.S. Capitol building that some are calling an attempted insurrection. Louisiana U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy says the whole matter was sad and unfortunate, and it could have been avoided. He says inflammatory partisan rhetoric is largely to blame…:

Cut 4 (14) “… other person the enemy.” 

Five people died as a result of the sad incident a year ago, when a crowd of angry supporters of outgoing President Trump – unhappy over the election outcome – stormed the Capitol and tried to force entry into the House Chamber. Cassidy says Leftist partisan rhetoric contributed to the shooting of Congressman Steve Scalise in 2017. He says Democrats and Republicans on the Hill need to work together in good faith…:

Cut 5 (15) “…should not occur.”

District 6 Congressman Garret Graves says he’s disappointed the House committee investigating January 6^th is a mostly partisan panel, with only 2 GOP members…:

Cut 6 (12) “…political theater.”

Graves says partisan bickering over what happened a year ago and who is directly or indirectly responsible is counter-productive for the country and Congress…:

Cut 7 (11) “…North Korea and others.”

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Gov. John Bel Edwards has announced that construction has started on the Lake Borgne Marsh Creation Project in St. Bernard Parish. Deputy Executive Director for Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority Greg Grandy says this is the largest marsh creation project that the state of Louisiana has ever undertaken…

Cut 8 (08) “…near Shell Beach.” 

The Louisiana Trustee Implementation Group outlined the plan in January of 2017 and is funded by dollars obtained following compensation for the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Grandy says the main piece of equipment used during the project is a cutter head dredge that will pick up sediment and transport it into the marshes…

Cut 9 (08)  “…back in those areas.”

The restoration will provide benefits to the risk reduction system around the greater New Orleans region. Grandy says that the project will also benefit the wetland ecosystem and fishermen…

Cut 10 (12) “…in and out.”

The project’s construction budget is $61 million.

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The Louisiana Department of Health says 90-percent of all COVID cases in the state are the Omicron variant. LSU Health Shreveport Infectious Disease specialist Dr. John Vanchiere  (van CHERRY) says their lab sequencing indicates a significant jump in northwest Louisiana…:

Cut  11 (12)  “…week prior.”  

Due to the highly transmissible variant and post-holiday surge in cases, Vanchiere says LSU Health Shreveport is testing on average 650 to 800 people a day…:

Cut 12 (08) “…community testing.”

Vanchiere stresses the importance of being fully vaccinated and boosted to reduce severe illness and hospitalization from the current variant…:

Cut 13 (08) “…easily spread.“

The CDC estimated the proportion of Omicron in the region that includes Louisiana, Arkansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas is 98-percent.

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Louisiana native Lawrence Brooks, the oldest living World War II veteran in the US, died Tuesday at the age of 112. Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana Morris Thompson fondly recounts his friendship with Brooks that began twelve years ago at a New Orleans fish fry.

Cut 14 (12)  “…want to know.”

One of 15 children, Brooks was raised in Norwood, Louisiana, and drafted at the age of 31, spending the majority of World War II in the predominantly African American 91^st Engineer Battalion. Thompson says Brooks claimed the key to longevity is to serve God and be nice to people.

Cut 15 (12)  “…remember him.”

Brooks spent the majority of his service in WWII stationed in Australia. In Jim Crow America however, Thompson says Brooks told him he was often treated better overseas than he was in his own country.

Cut  16 (10) “…in the army.”

Brooks is survived by five children, 13 grandchildren, and 32 great-grandchildren.

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After beginning Sun Belt play with two victories on the road, the Ragin Cajuns return home tonight to host Arkansas State tonight. U-L Lafayette Coach Bob Marlin says they want to build on what they accomplished last week…

Cut 17 (16) “ …front of us.”

The Red Wolves begin Georgia Southern in their lone Sun Belt game of the season and they are 10-and-3 overall. Marlin says A-S-U are led by Caleb Fields, Norchad Omier and a talented shooter by the name of Marquis Eaton, who had 32 points against the Cajuns in a game last February…

Cut 18 (16) “ …player inside” 

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The 13th ranked LSU women’s basketball team puts its 13 game winning streak on the line tonight when they host top-ranked South Carolina. Lady Tigers Coach Kim Mulkey says this is a tremendous challenge and opportunity for her squad…

Cut 19 (13) “…size to rebound” 

South Carolina is led by National Player of the Year Candidate Aliyah Boston, who is averaging 17 points and ten rebounds a game. Mulkey understands the excitement around this game, but it will not make or break their season…

Cut 20 (25) “..remain the same.”  

Governor Edwards gave a posthumous pardon to Homer  Plessy, the subject of the Plessy v. Ferguson Supreme Court case that ensconced a “separate, but equal” policy that enabled decades of segregation. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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LSU’s 42-20 loss to Kansas State in the Texas Bowl last night will be known as the Jontre Kirklin game, as the fifth-year senior started his first college game at quarterback. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (32)…I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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At a ceremony in New Orleans, Governor John Bel Edwards posthumously pardoned civil rights pioneer Homer Plessy, the subject of a separate but equal Supreme Court ruling that enabled decades of segregation of black Americans. Keith Plessy, a direct descendant, was on hand for today’s ceremony…

Cut 3 (10) “…to be born.”

Homer Plessy was a Creole man arrested in New Orleans 130 years ago when he refused to leave a whites-only railroad car. Plessy’s protest led to the 1896 ruling known as Plessy versus Ferguson, which said it was legal to have white-only spaces in public areas. Governor Edwards says unfortunately the negative effects of that ruling still linger…

Cut 4 (08) “…our country.”

The Supreme Court reversed segregation laws in 1954. Plessy died in 1921 with his conviction still on his record.

Edwards says this is Louisiana’s first pardon as a result of a 2006 state law that allows for pardons of people convicted under laws that were intended to discriminate…

Cut 5 (12) “…criminal conviction”

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A strange ending to the 2021 football season for the LSU Tigers last night as they only had 38 scholarship players available and it showed in a 42-20 loss to Kansas State in the Texas Bowl. Fifth-year senior Jontre Kirklin made his first start at quarterback and threw three touchdown passes…

 Cut 6 (12) “…whole journey” 

Kirklin was a standout quarterback at Lutcher High School but only played cornerback and wide receiver at LSU up until last night. Kirklin was a backup during his time and LSU, but he’s known as a hard worker and a team leader…

Cut 7 (10) “…here I am” 

Kirklin says he was calm heading into his first start at quarterback since 2016…

Cut 8 (11) “…win this game” 

Kirklin completed seven of his eleven pass attempts for 138 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions.

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Two children were tragically killed in a house fire early this morning in St. Landry Parish. Opelousas Fire Chief Charles Mason says they received a call shortly before 1:30 of a house fire where six people resided, only four escaped.

Cut 9 (06) “…and one eleven.”

Mason says the home in the 1900 block of Jake Drive was fully engulfed when eight firefighters responded to the scene. In addition to the two fatalities, another child was taken to the hospital.

Cut 10 (05)  “…smoke inhalation.”

The cause of the fire is unknown, and the State Fire Marshal’s office is investigating.  

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Jonesboro’s Fire Chief and a Jackson Parish Sheriff’s deputy face insurance fraud charges involving a two-vehicle crash of fire department vehicles. Trooper Michael Reichardt says State Police received a tip in August and found Chief Brandon Brown and Deputy George Wyatt were involved and listed as the drivers.

Cut  11 (10)  “…the vehicles.” 

The two men have been charged with insurance fraud, filing or maintaining false public records, and malfeasance in office. Reichardt credits LSP investigators for their diligent work in the case.

Cut 12 (07) “…jail now.”  

Reichardt says it appears the two men were trying to cover up the fact that Chief Brown’s juvenile son was one of the drivers at the time of the crash.

Cut 13 (12) “….drive those. “

The investigation remains active.

As kids return to the classroom, some systems are reinstating the use of face masks as COVID cases surge once again. Brooke Thorington has more from Louisiana’s Superintendent of Education.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Louisiana has surpassed 15-thousand COVID deaths since March 2020. Jeff Palermo reports on whether the rate of COVID deaths will slow…

Cut 2 (27)…I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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The school bell is ringing once again in Louisiana and with COVID cases back on the rise some school systems are reinstating mitigation practices. State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley says the decision about face masks is best made locally.

Cut 3 (10) “…their kids.”

Research indicates having students in the classroom is best for everyone and Brumley says systems should do all they can to do so as safely as possible.

Brumley says as long as there isn’t a statewide mask mandate the department’s stance on the issue is that it’s a local decision, and because parents are very impassioned about face masks on both sides of the issue, he recommends they reach out to local school leaders.

Cut 4 (07) “…for kids.”

When it comes to vaccines Brumley says he’s thankful they are available for the majority of school-age children now and he advises parents to discuss the matter with their healthcare provider.

Cut 5 (11) “…parent’s decision.”

In addition to COVID, Louisiana schools have had to adjust for hurricanes, winter storms, and flooding the past two school years and Brumley says through it all schools have managed to keep students in the classroom for the most part.

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The state is reporting 15-thousand COVID deaths since the pandemic started, but could we see fewer COVID deaths in the months ahead. Tulane Epidemiologist Doctor Susan Hassig says one hopeful sign is that the mortality rate with the Omicron verge does not seem to be as severe as it was with the Delta surge…

 Cut 6 (11) “…the virus” 

Hassig says the best way to prevent death from COVID is getting vaccinated and keeping up with the boosters, but that’s a concern in Louisiana, which has one of the nation’s lowest vaccination rates as 50-percent of the population has completed the vaccine series…

Cut 7 (12) “…more people vaccinated” 

Hassig says while its possible the rate of deaths from COVID may slow down, the concern remains about hospitals being inundated with sick COVID patients and not having the ability to properly treat other diseases…

Cut 8 (13) “…COVID there” 

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The first fire fatality in Louisiana for 2022 occurred Sunday night in West Monroe claiming the life of a 69-year-old man and his dog. State Fire Marshal Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says firefighters learned the occupant initially escaped the blaze but re-entered his home in an attempt to save his pet…

Cut 9 (12) “…your life for”

Firefighters located the man’s body in the living room and the remains of his dog in a bedroom. Rodrigue says investigators have not been able to pinpoint an actual cause but have determined where it started…

Cut 10 (06)  “…electrical in nature”

Official identification is still pending but it’s believed the victim is the tenant. Deputies didn’t locate working smoke alarms but Rodrigue says even with working fire alarms staying out is of the utmost importance…

Cut  11 (10)  “…and staying out” 

Families in need of a fire alarm can get help through the Operation Save-A-Life program which provides free fire alarm installation through local fire departments.

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A 15-year has been arrested and charged with 2^nd Degree Murder in connection with a New Year’s Eve fatal shooting in St. Landry Parish. Sheriff Bobby Guidroz says the victim has been identified as 38-year-old Keith Adam Joseph from Washington, Louisiana…

Cut 12 (10) “…once in the chest”  

Just before midnight Friday, deputies were dispatched to a Washington home. Guidroz says the juvenile fled the scene prior to their arrival…

Cut 13 (09) “….surrounding the incident. “

The teen was also charged with Juvenile in Possession of a Firearm.

Those with any information about the crime are urged to contact the St Landry Crime Stoppers by calling 948-TIPS. Guidroz says this is just another case in a larger issue…

Cut 14 (06)  “…it appears.” 

The investigation is still ongoing.

Senator Bill Cassidy’s Surprise Medical Bill legislation which helps patients avoid paying for out-of-network services has gone into effect. Erik Piccioli has more…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Erik Piccoli.”

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There’s quite a chill in the air in the Bayou State to keep off the first work week of the new year. Jeff Palermo has the low down on the low temps.

Cut 2 (30)…I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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State police are investigating an officer-involved shooting in Jackson Parish. Trooper Michael Reichardt says the sheriff’s office received a call Saturday that 63-year-old Michael Dobbins broke into a Chatham residence assaulted one person and then fled the scene. But hours later he was found behind some abandoned cars.

Cut 3 (12) “…at the scene.”

Reichardt says it was a long day for sheriff’s deputies, he says before they received a call that Dobbins was in a residence assaulting one person and threatening to kill another, they believe Dobbins broke into a vehicle and stole a gun.

Cut 4 (08) “…for a little while.”

Reichardt says considering all the incidents Dobbins was allegedly involved in Saturday they are thankful no one else was severely injured in the shootout.

Cut 5 (07) “…was hurt.”

The incident remains under investigation.

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Senator Bill Cassidy’s Surprise Medical Bill legislation preventing patients from paying unexpected fees after going to the hospital is now in effect. Cassidy says this is one of the first steps towards getting price transparency but there’s still a lot to be done…

 Cut 6 (08) “…that’s never been the case” 

The legislation prevents patients from paying out-of-network costs for emergency services and if some of the equipment or personnel is not in your network then the patient must be informed, given an estimate, and allowed to find someone in-network.

Cassidy says he’s heard of insurance companies playing games by not going in-network with doctors knowing it would put the patient at risk for the cost but now patients are no longer at risk…

Cut 7 (07) “…is out of the middle” 

If you leave the hospital with a higher bill than anticipated, Cassidy suggests first checking with your insurance company to see what the issue is along with contacting the Louisiana Department of Insurance at 1-800-259-5300. Cassidy says patients have recourse with this new law…

Cut 8 (11) “…to pay more” 

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The Saints still have a shot at making the playoffs even though they’ve scored just one touchdown in the last three games. New Orleans defense produced seven sacks in an 18-10 win over Carolina yesterday. Defensive end Cam Jordan had 3.5 sacks and says holding the Panthers to only 88 yards rushing was also a key…

Cut 9 (10) “…just sacks”

Sunday’s victory gives New Orleans an 8-and-8 record and some of the recent wins have been ugly as a result of an offense missing starters on the o-line. Linebacker Demario Davis says the defense doesn’t have a problem with stepping up its game…

Cut 10 (10)  “…that opportunity”

If the Saints beat Atlanta on Sunday and the 49ers lose to the Rams, New Orleans is in the playoffs. Davis is glad the 17th game of the season has meaning…

Cut  11 (11)  “…with it” 

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Louisianans needed much more than a light jacket as they ventured out into the frozen tundra this morning. State Climatologist Barry Keim says it was quite a contrast to the unseasonably warm temps the Bayou State was experiencing.

Cut 12 (12) “…down to 35”  

Keim says we’ll only see highs in the upper 40s today so don’t expect the sun to warm us up too much.

As for Tuesday AM, Keim says it will be much of a repeat of this morning with basically everything north of I-10 waking up to freezing temps.

Cut 13 (10) “….and Thursday. “

With another chilly night on tap, many will be using space heaters to keep warm. State Fire Marshal’s Office Spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says keep anything that can catch on fire at least three to five feet away from the heating unit.

Cut 14 (10)  “…a chain.” 

Rodrigue also reminds you to never use your stove or oven to heat a home because it increases your chances of fire and or carbon monoxide poisoning.

2022 is already shaping up to be a very active & potentially dramatic year for Louisiana politics. Kevin Gallagher elaborates…:

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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The New Year brings new changes to how much state taxes you’ll pay. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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Louisiana medical marijuana patients now have the choice to get smokeable medical marijuana at one of the state’s nine licensed pharmacies. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Michelle Southern.” 

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2022 is already shaping up to be an active year for politics in Louisiana. “LAPolitics.com” publisher Jeremy Alford says first up a redistricting session in February. Alford says partisan politics PLUS population losses will come into play as they redraw district lines for Congress, the legislature, Public Service Commission and state courts…:

Cut 4 (12) “….see some changes.”

Governor Edwards has said he wants a second majority-minority Congressional district, but Alford thinks GOP-led legislature will resist.

Next, it’s on to the 2022 regular legislative session, and Alford thinks we’ll see attempts to again pass legislation that did not make it into law last year. He says some of these are real hot-button topics we’ve heard about before…:

Cut 5 (09) “…criminal justice reform.”

Also in the coming year, the mid-term Congressional elections and the beginning of the run-up to the 2023 gubernatorial and statewide office elections. Alford says there are lot of people who’d like to move into the Governor’s Mansion…:

Cut 6 (10) “…run for governor.”

Alford expects to see and hear a lot of highly charged partisan debate and straight-up bickering in the year ahead.

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The New Year brings changes to the state’s tax code. Jason DeCuir (dih-KWEER) is a partner at Advantous, a tax consulting firm in Baton Rouge. He says a big change is with state income tax rates, after voters last fall approved lowering individuals’ tax rates in exchange for losing their deduction for federal taxes paid…:

Cut 7 (11) “…taxes that they pay.”

DeCuir says corporate state income taxes were also reduced.

Another change that he says should help smaller businesses in Louisiana is the phasing out the so-called Corporate Franchise Tax. He says this something business owners have wanted for years…:

Cut 8 (12) “…phased that tax out.”

There are some concerns that the tax changes will NOT be “revenue neutral” for many; particularly higher wage earners and those who itemize deductions. DeCuir says the tax code changes should be better for most of us, and will make for fewer state budget shortfalls, as state revenues are less tied to the federal tax code…:

Cut 9 (10)  “…for the state.”

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Embattled Lafayette City Court Judge Michelle Odinet has stepped down from the bench as a result of a viral video where she allegedly used a racial slur as her family watched a home security video of an attempted burglary. Odinet’s Attorney Dane Ciolino says the judge takes full responsibility…

Cut 10 (11)  “…the community”

Ciolino says in her resignation letter, Odinet says she’s sorry for the pain she’s caused to the community…

Cut  11 (12)  “..to come”  

Odinet also asked for forgiveness in her resignation letter to the Louisiana Supreme Court. Ciolino says the judge knows forgiveness will not come quickly…

Cut 12 (08) “…work to do”

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The new year brings a change to the state’s medical-marijuana program as eligible patients can now buy it in smokeable form. Houma Representative Tanner Magee authored the legislation that made it legal for the state’s nine licensed pharmacies to dispense the flower form of marijuana…

Cut 13 (12) “…uses wants.”

Up until 2022, medical marijuana was available to patients with certain conditions in liquids, topical applications, inhalers, and edible gummies. Magee says since the smokeable form involves less processing, it should cost less for the consumer…

Cut 14 (12)  “..look at”

Louisiana launched its medical marijuana program in 2019 after lawmakers approved the dispensing framework in 2015. There are now 28-thousand patients who have a valid medical marijuana prescription. Magee says many of those individuals are over the age of 65

Cut 15 (10)  “…find beneficial”

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Louisiana Tech men’s basketball is off to a 2-0 start in Conference USA play after a come from behind win over Western Kentucky on Saturday. The Bulldogs trailed by 17 points to the Hilltoppers but still won their 17th straight game in the Thomas Assembly Center by beating W-K-U 74-73. Tech head coach Eric Konkol…

Cut  16 (24) “…just a way”

Kenneth Lofton junior had 22 points and Tech is at UTEP on Thursday.

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The LSU football team has one more full day of preparation for Tuesday night’s Texas Bowl against Kansas State. They’ve been getting ready for the game in Houston and it’s still unknown to the public who will start at quarterback and the Tigers are without key players Damone Clark, Neil Farrell and Tyrion-Davis Price, who have opted out. Despite the key absences, interim head coach Brad Davis says the preparation has been good…

Cut 17 (17) “ …victorious”

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The Saints kept their playoff hopes alive with an 18-10 win over the struggling Panthers. The defense led the way as they sacked Carolina quarterback Sam Darnold seven times. Defensive end Cam Jordan had 3.5 sacks and cornerback C-J Gardner-Johnson had the game sealing interception. Gardner Johnson credits the defensive line

Cut 18 (18) “ ..one on one” 

The Saints offense struggled to run the football as the offensive line played without its start center and tackles. Quarterback Taysom Hill threw for 222 yards and one touchdown. Hill understands its the defense leading the way…

Cut 19 (19) “ being scored” 

The win gives the Saints an 8-and-8 record heading into Sunday’s season finale at Atlanta. New Orleans offense has scored just one touchdown in the last three games and Coach Sean Payton credits the defense for keeping their playoff hopes alive…

Cut 20 (15) “ takeaways” 

One of Louisiana’s most wanted murder suspects is now behind bars. Michelle Southern has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Michelle Southern.”

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The New Orleans butcher who introduced NFL great John Madden to the Louisiana “turducken” mourns the passing of the football legend. Brooke Thorington has that…:

Cut 2 (34)…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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State Police are investigating a fatal officer-involved shooting in Lake Charles. Troop D spokesman Trooper Derek Senegal says it began with LCPD officers called to an address where a man had fired shots into a home twice; the second time hitting someone inside…:

Cut 3 (11) “…fled on foot.”

Lake Charles Police caught up with an armed and body-armored 22-year-old Christopher Thomas at another residence, where they tried to negotiate his surrender. Trooper Senegal says Thomas retreated inside the house…:

Cut 4 (12) “…he actually died.”

As with all police officer-involved shootings in the state, LSP is investigating. Senegal says they’ll seek out any surveillance video which may help in the investigation…:

Cut 5 (14) “…put together a report.”

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After a five-hour standoff, the suspected gunman in the first shooting during homecoming on the campus of Grambling State is now in custody. State Trooper Michael Reichardt says they had been looking for 18-year-old Jatavious Carroll, aka “Rabbit” since October 13^th. He says the US Marshal’s located Carroll in a home in Delhi.

 Cut 6 (09) “…custody.” 

The October 13^th shooting injured a 16-year-old and killed 19-year old Damarius Murphy of Rayville. Reichardt says multiple agencies assisted in Tuesday’s standoff with Carroll

Cut 7 (09) “…even better.”  

Reichardt says the two suspected gunmen in the October 17^th shooting on the Grambling campus, that killed one person and wounded seven were taken into custody previously one December 6^th the other November 11^th.

Cut 8 (11) “…in jail.”

Carroll is being held in the Lincoln Parish Jail.

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The man who introduced NFL great John Madden to one of his favorite dishes – the TURDUCKEN – mourns the passage of the football legend. New Orleans butcher Glenn Mistich says he first met Madden in 1996, during the Saints – Rams game. During an appearance on WWL radio, the subject of the “turducken” came up…:

Cut 9 (12) “…the All-Madden Team.”

For the unenlightened, a “turducken” is a chicken, stuffed inside a duck, stuffed inside a turkey. The dish has become a holiday table tradition for many across the state. Mistich says, after talking with Madden quite a bit, he sent the Madden family one. That quickly became a tradition of its own…:

Cut 10 (07)  “…Christmas as well.”

Madden frequently raved about the turducken during broadcasts, and Mistich says that undoubtably contributed to the popularity of the food…:

Cut  11 (15)  “…and my business.” 

Madden passed away, at age 85, and Mistich says he will miss his friend. Mistich does not claim to have invented the turducken. That honor lies with the late Chef Paul Prudhomme of New Orleans.

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LSU Football Coach Brian Kelly has named Matt House as his defensive coordinator. House is the linebackers coach at Kansas City and previously served as a defensive coordinator on the collegiate level at Kentucky, FIU, and Pittsburgh. Baton Rouge sports talk show host Matt Mascona says House seems like a solid hire

Cut 12 (07) “…NFL experience.”  

House will remain with the Kansas City Chiefs until their season ends. K-C defensive back and former LSU star Tyrann Mathieu gave a ringing endorsement of House’s hiring. Mascona says Mathieu says House is one of the best coaches he’s been around…

Cut 13 (09) “. with it “

House spent three seasons with Kentucky, two as defensive coordinator. House’s 2018 Kentucky defense ranked sixth in the nation in points allowed, he’s also credited with helping to defensive lineman Aaron Donald when he was at Pittsburgh. Mascona says Kelly has been hiring assistant coaches for a long time now and knows what he’s looking for…

Cut 14 (10)  “…successful hire.” 

The forecast for relief at the pump remains grim and predictions for spring even more depressing. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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As we say “goodbye” to 2021, State Climatologist Barry Keim looks back on a topsy-turvy year for Louisiana weather. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (31)…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”  

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Gas forecasters predict prices at the pump will get worse before they get better. GasBuddy head petroleum analyst Patrick DeHaan says prices in 2022 could linger around the $4 mark should we move past the Omicron variant and the economy continue to hold.

Cut 3 (10) “…this spring.”

DeHaan says right now we are starting to see the price of oil move up again because the Omicron variant is less severe than initially anticipated and there’s optimism that oil demand may begin to pick back up globally…

Cut 4 (10) “…head higher”

For the season DeHaan says we’re paying the most we have at the pump in some seven years due to supply being unable to keep up with demand. But for the spring if you have travel plans, he says buckle up and be ready to pay even more, an additional twenty-five to seventy-five cents a gallon and by Memorial Day we could see prices flirt at $4 a gallon.

Cut 5 (06) “…strong economy.”

The average price for a gallon of regular gas in Louisiana today is $2.99.

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As we say “goodbye” to 2021, State Climatologist Barry Keim looks back on a topsy-turvy year for Louisiana weather. Keim says – without a doubt – the top weather story of the past year was Hurricane Ida…:

 Cut 6 (14) “…of 1856.” 

Keim says Tropical Storm Claudette was also noteworthy, a rare case of a storm developing over land in extreme southeast Louisiana. Hitting Number Two on Keim’s list, was the outbreak of Arctic air in February…:

Cut 7 (13) “…Lake Charles sixteen.”  

In Shreveport, the temperature went down to a record-low 1 degree during that cold snap.

Another of the year’s top weather events was the tornado outbreak of early April last year. Keim says the state has rarely seen so many twisters within a 48 hour period…:

Cut 8 (11) “…and northern Louisiana.”

Other events of note: spring & summer rain storms that dumped almost a year’s worth of rain in a matter of days; leaving most of the southern part of the state excessively wet. Keim says the Holiday Heat Wave will also be one for the Louisiana Weather record books.

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The CDC revises isolation guidelines for those who test positive COVID from 10 days to five days, that’s if they don’t have symptoms and wear a mask for at least five more days. LSU Health New Orleans infectious disease specialist Dr. Fred Lopez says when the CDC looked at the data the virus appears to be most contagious in the two days before and three days after symptoms develop.

Cut 9 (07) “…symptoms develop.”

Lopez says the new guidelines are for everyone, regardless of vaccination status. He says the keyword is that you are asymptomatic, and you wear a mask for the remaining five days when in public. The five days begins the day you receive your positive results.

Cut 10 (08)  “…additional days.”

Last week the CDC COVID quarantine guidelines for healthcare workers were also adjusted. Their quarantine period is longer than the general public because of their interaction with those who are more vulnerable.

Cut  11 (10)  “…discontinuing the isolation.”  

For a testing location, you can visit the Louisiana Department of Health’s website.

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COVID positive tests and injuries resulted in a dismal performance on offense last night as the Saints fell to the Miami Dolphins 20-3. NFL analyst Mike Detillier says it was not a surprise to see the Saints struggle on offense with rookie quarterback Ian Book and only two starting offensive linemen on the field

Cut 12 (09) “…with the Dolphins”  

Book was sacked eight times, intercepted twice and New Orleans went 0-for-12 on third down. Detillier says Book was overwhelmed by the pressure he received from a Miami defense the feasted on a makeshift offensive line…

Cut 13 (10) “..last night “

Detillier says the score could have been much worse if it wasn’t for the defense. But he says without a stable offensive line you don’t have a chance at winning…

Cut 14 (13) “…you ain’t winning.” 

A Tulane epidemiologist says the alarming increase in COVID cases over the holiday weekend is indicative of how contagious the Omicron variant is.  Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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You’ll be required to wear a face mask if you need to visit a city building in Shreveport now due to the rapid increase in cases. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The state reported an alarming number of 12,164 new COVID cases over the holiday weekend. And with the availability of in-home COVID tests, Tulane Epidemiologist Dr. Susan Hassig says the number is even more concerning because it does not include positive at-home results.

Cut 3 (11) “….most clearly.” 

If you have tested positive at home, in addition to quarantining, Hassig encourages you to call the state’s contact tracing line, so we have a better idea of community spread and where we are seeing a spike in cases.

Hassig says it’s a testament to just how transmissible the Omicron variant is. In just a week COVID hospitalizations have doubled to 449 patients in Louisiana.  She says there’s typically a two-week delay when cases begin to rise to see an impact in hospitals and the uptick now is here cases were on the rise after Thanksgiving.

Cut 4 (12) “….given location.”

The Omicron variant of COVID, Hassig says does have a different clinical presentation compared to the original virus and Delta.

Cut 5 (09) “…get tested.”

Hassig highly encourages you to use face masks in public settings, wash your hands frequently, and socially distance yourself. She says we are starting to see an uptick in flu and strep cases and COVID mitigation will help reduce exposure to those as well.

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The City of Shreveport has reinstated the use of face masks in city buildings due to the rapid increase in COVID cases. Mayor Adrian Perkins issued the directive Monday and Perkins himself received a positive result for COVID after visiting one of LSU-Health Shreveport’s testing sites.

Cut 6 (11) “…my family.”

Perkins conducted a phone interview from his home with LRN Monday and says he’s quarantining while relatives are in town visiting for Christmas.

The mayor says he reinstated the mask requirement for city buildings in hopes of reducing the spread of the extremely transmissible Omicron variant. Perkins says more mitigation measures could be added.

Cut 7 (10) “…safe as well.”

With many people gathering for Christmas, health officials expect to see COVID cases and hospitalizations increase. Perkins says if you think for any reason, you might have been exposed to get tested.

Cut 8 (12) “… go and get tested.”

For a list of COVID testing sites visit LDH.la.gov

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State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says the customers of two property insurers who were placed into receivership last month have found new coverage. Donelon says this will benefit some 30-thousand property owners covered under Access Home Insurance and under State National Fire Insurance…:

Cut 9 (06)  “…left behind.”

Mr. Donelon approved the transaction of policies several days ago, meaning those property owners will NOT have to resort to the state-owned insurer of last resort, Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance. That company’s rates are, by law, ten percent higher than the private market…:

Cut 10 (12)  “…were able to do.”

The deal now goes to the 19^th Judicial District Court in Baton Rouge, for approval today. The goal is to have the whole thing completed before Friday…:

Cut  11 (11)  “…on a seamless basis.”  

The new insurer (whose name has not yet been made public) will have the option to NOT renew policyholders who’ve been with Access or State National for less than three years.

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Positive news from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, after four weeks of receiving 270 samples from deer across the state, they haven’t found any incidents of chronic wasting disease. LDWF began testing for CWD earlier this month when cases were reported across the state line in Union County, Arkansas. State Veterinarian Jim LaCour…

Cut 12 (07) “…that’s good.”

LDWF received 96 samples from Union Parish and 16 from Morehouse Parish. Testing in those parishes was prioritized due to the proximity to the cases in Arkansas. LaCour says the samples were sent to the diagnostic testing lab at LSU.

Cut 13 (09) “…things done.”

If you have participated in the sampling, LaCour says you can get the results of their sample on their website. The testing is free.

Cut 14 (12)  “…win-win everyone.”

The department wants to test at least 300 deer.

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The Saints were missing 16 players from their active roster due to COVID-19 and it showed in last night’s game against Miami as they couldn’t match-up with the Dolphins and lost 20-3. Coach Sean Payton says they had guys on the field who never practiced with the team…

Cut 15 (15)  “…next week’s game.”

The Saints are hoping starting quarterback Taysom Hill will be back for Sunday’s game against Carolina. Rookie Ian Book started and threw a pick six on his second pass and was sacked eight times in his NFL debut. Payton says it’s hard to evaluate Book’s performance. because they struggled to keep him upright…

Cut  16 (16) “.he does”

Book threw for 135 yards and he was intercepted twice. The former Notre Dame star says the results were not what he wanted, but is thankful he got the opportunity…

Cut 17 (17) “ whole night”

Construction of an elevated eight-mile stretch of Highway 1 will begin in January. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Christmas is behind us and the New Year is coming soon, and soon after that … tax time. Brooke Thorington has some filing tips…:

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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According to Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development Secretary Shawn Wilson, this time next month construction will be ramping up to add eight miles of elevated highway along Highway 1 in Lafourche Parish.

Cut 3 (10) “….$135-million.” 

Wilson says the total cost for the project is $463 million. Construction that’s scheduled to begin January 31^st is Phase Two of a four-phased project. Wilson says it will elevate one of the highways most flood-prone sections where water and high tide can prevent access to Grand Isle.

Cut 4 (10) “….Gulf of Mexico.”

Wilson says not only is the project important for residents to secure an escape route from hurricanes, but the structure also has national impacts. Wilson says 20-percent of the nation’s oil is processed off the Gulf of Mexico and even a hard rain can block access in Port Fourchon.

Cut 5 (11) “…the port.”

Phase 2 of the project is slated to open in 2027.

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As the end of 2021 approaches, many start to put together their income tax filing strategies. Jonathan Stoltz is a Certified Public accountant with Malcolm M. Dienes (DEEN-us) in Metairie. He says, under normal circumstances, taxpayers look to minimize earnings and investment income in the current year – to avoid a big tax hit – but tax code changes are expected in the New Year…:

Cut 6 (09) “…pushing off deductions.”

Stoltz says financial experts believe Congress will changes the tax code in 2022; raising federal income tax rates for the higher wage earners. He says this will also affect your investments, if you have a large portfolio…:

Cut 7 (11) “…tax bill for 2021.”

Stoltz says better to pay taxes now, at a lower rate, than to wait and see how high it goes for next year. What of those of us that do not itemize, have modest investments or retirement, and do not itemize deductions? Stoltz says there are other allowed deductions, in addition to the standard $12-thousand per person. Make sure you claim them and have proof in case of an audit down the road…:

Cut 8 (15) “… (x2) standard deduction.”

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If you’re looking for a way to dispose of your live Christmas tree and help the environment, Southeastern University has just the ticket. Rob Moreau, manager of Southeastern’s Turtle Cove Environmental Research Station says this is the 27^th year they’ve recycled trees for wetlands in southeast Louisiana.

Cut 9 (11)  “…prevent erosion.”

Moreau says allowing trees to be placed along areas in the wetlands keeps them from clogging up landfills, it helps wildlife build habitats and it’s…

Cut 10 (10)  “…my classes.”

You can drop your tree at collection sites in Tangipahoa Parish and even a well-known seafood restaurant. Moreau says they’ll begin collecting trees on January 6th.

Cut  11 (12)  “…tree there.”  

Over the past 26 years, Turtle Cove has been involved in the deployment of approximately 40,000 Christmas Trees into the Manchac marsh in various areas

For more information visit Louisiana Radio Network’s website.

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2021 was a fairly good year for economic development in our state, despite the challenges. Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson says it could have easily been disastrous, with the ongoing COVID pandemic, the devastation of Category 4 Hurricane Ida, and more…:

Cut 12 (14) “…new capital investment.”

Pierson says this year saw deals struck to build a $10-billion liquid natural gas facility in Cameron Parish, hundreds of millions for expansions and improvements at Louisiana refineries and port facilities, plus major investments from the nations’ biggest online retail outlet…:

Cut 13 (14) “…more than a thousand jobs projected.”

Pierson says newer technologies are also investing in Louisiana; bringing commerce and lots of jobs…:

Cut 14 (15)  “…really strong 2022.”

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The Saints will host the Miami Dolphins tonight with a rookie quarterback and a COVID-depleted roster that results in defensive starters Demario Davis and Malcolm Jenkins also not playing. Ian Book will get the start at quarterback with Taysom Hill and Trevor Siemian also out as a result of COVID. Book is excited about the opportunity…

Cut 15 (15)  “…go out an perform.”

Coach Sean Payton is back after missing last week’s improbable win over the Buccaneers with COVID. Payton expects the team will rally around Book and he believes the former Notre Dame star will be able to move the offense…

Cut  16 (18) “.offensively”

The Census Bureau says Louisiana continues to lose people to other states, a trend that’s been going on for years.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Dave Brannen.”

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Along with state offices requiring face masks indoors, hospitals are beginning to reinstate mask policies. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 2 (33)…I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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Louisiana is continuing an unfortunate trend of losing population to other states according to Census Bureau data.  Demographer Greg Rigamer says economic factors primarily played a role in the Bayou State ranking fifth in out-migration comparing 2020 to 2021 figures.

Cut 3 (10) “…doing much better.”

Louisiana’s percent of population decline for the year-long period was six-tenths of a percent, sixth highest in the nation.

Rigamer says people are leaving the state by and large in search of bettering their future.

Cut 4 (09) “…a better life.”

He says that some have also left because of the continuing hit by catastrophic hurricanes.

Rigamer agrees that if the trend of Louisiana population loss continues as it has for several years, there runs the possibility of the state losing a seat in Congress.

Cut 5 (05) “..a probability.”

The year-over-year drop in population ending July 1^st was just over 27,000, a trend that Rigamer says has continued for at least eight years in a row.

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In addition to state offices returning to indoor masking requirements, Our Lady of the Lake Hospital in Baton Rouge is requiring all to wear face masks. Infectious disease specialist at the Lake Dr. Catherine O’Neal says the rapid increase in cases forced them to return to face masks.

 Cut 6 (12) “…home for 10 days” 

While there are reports that symptoms from the Omicron variant aren’t as bad as Delta and not as many are being hospitalized, however, O’Neal says it’s still too early to know the impacts of the newest variant.

Cut 7 (12) “…everybody has it.”  

Another reason O’Neal says we need to mask up again, get vaccinated, and or boosted is that if you do catch the Omicron variant and need to be treated at the hospital there’s a shortage of monoclonal antibody fusion treatments for the new variant.

Cut 8 (09) “…short supply.”

O’Neal highly recommends you get tested for Omicron before you visit with people outside of your immediate home and/or travel.

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As you head out to do your last-minute shopping for Christmas dinner, Mike Strain, Louisiana’s AG Secretary, says you really shouldn’t have much trouble finding what you need, including the right size turkey.

Cut 9 (10) “…food products available.”

The only downside to all this is inflation has pushed up the price of most everything you’ll need for your meal.

He says while turkey is an important part of your Christmas dinner, Strain offers this piece of advice.

Cut 10 (09)  “…wonderful Christmas time.”

Strain says the over six-point-eight percent inflation rate is putting a damper on the costs of this year’s Christmas dinner, he’s not expecting prices to come down anytime soon.

Cut  11 (08)  “…call input costs.”  

Strain says poultry prices are currently up about six to eight percent while beef prices are up a whopping 21 percent.

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Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy says he’s still waiting on the CDC to provide some guidance on how much protection a person may have from COVID if previously infected by COVID. Cassidy says based on worldwide research there is some natural immunity for those who recover from COVID…

Cut 12 (11) “. some protection.”  

It was over a month ago that Cassidy suggested to CDC Director Doctor Rochelle Walensky that the federal health agency should investigate whether natural immunity confers protection against future infections. Walensky says other countries have acknowledged natural immunity…

Cut 13 (11) “..or restaurant.”

Cassidy is not sure why the CDC seems reluctant to look into natural immunity, but the senator, who is also a physician, believes it does provide some protection from future infection…

Cut 14 (11) “..were infected.”