Shreveport finalizes a deal with a company owned by entertainer 50 Cent to develop three entertainment venues in the city. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

____________________________________________

A 28-year-old Jennings woman who lost her unborn child is facing criminal charges after investigators determine it was drug use that killed the child. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

____________________________________________

A company owned by entertainer 50 Cent finalizes a deal to invest almost 125-million dollars to develop three entertainment venues in Shreveport. As part of his commitment, the state is providing up to 50-million dollars in performance-based funding for these three sites. Grant Nuckolls with Shreveport Film and Entertainment Economic Development says there are conditions attached to this funding.

Cut 3 (11) “…three through five.”

The project includes the renovation of the former Stageworks facility, the modernization of the former Millennium Studios and the construction of a dome-style venue. Nuckolls says if 50 Cent does not keep up with his end of the bargain, the state’s funding will go away.

Cut 4 (09) “…clawback provisions too.”

Nuckolls says one of the conditions of 50 Cent’s company, G-Unit Film and Television LLC, getting this money is that the work needs to be done in a timely manner.

Cut 5 (09) “…spent pretty quickly.”

____________________________________________

Small businesses open 2026 with optimism on the upswing. Leah Long is the Louisiana Director of the National Federation of Independent Business.

Cut 6 (06) “…heading into 2026.”

While the decrease in uncertainty has increased optimism among small business owners, Long says there are lingering concerns that they would like to see addressed in the new year.

Cut 7 (10) “…that in 2026.”

Long says one issue that is becoming a bigger issue for small business owners – one that President Trump is actively trying to rein in – is swipe fees.

Cut 8 (06) “…their swipe fees.”

Long says for example, some restaurants in the Baton Rouge area pay around 80-thousand dollars a year in swipe fees.

____________________________________________

A California doctor has been indicted on felony charges for allegedly trafficking abortion pills into Louisiana. Doctor Remy Coeytaux has been charged in St. Tammany Parish with Criminal Abortion by Means of Abortion Inducing Drugs. Attorney General Liz Murrill says her office is seeking to extradite Doctor Coeytaux to Louisiana…

Cut 9 (06)  “…our state.”

Coeytaux is also facing a lawsuit from a Texas man who alleges he illegally provided his girlfriend with abortion pills. Coeytaux has not responded to the accusations made against him.

According to court documents filed last year, Dr. Coeytaux mailed mifepristone, one of two medications commonly referred to as an abortion pill, to a woman who said she was forced to take them by her boyfriend. Murrill says Coeytaux is not providing healthcare, instead he’s dealing drugs…

Cut 10 (03) “…those doctors.”

The woman who received the abortion pills claims it was her boyfriend who used her email address to order the drugs and she never had any contact with the California physician. Prosecutors in Louisiana are also involved in a similar case with a doctor out of New York.

__________________________________________________

A 28-year-old Jennings woman is facing criminal charges after cops in Jefferson Davis Parish determine her illegal drug use led to the death of her unborn child. Jennings Police Chief Danny Semmes says Shandelynn Benoit has been charged with third-degree feticide….

Cut 11 (07) “…her pregnancy.”

Semmes says Benoit admitted to taking fentanyl and heroin to alleviate stomach pain….

Cut 12 (11) “…including death”

Semmes says his detectives have never investigated a case like this…

Cut 13 (07)  “…for this.”

Semmes says the person who supplied Benoit with the fentanyl has also been arrested.

A quarterback that LSU was reportedly interested in signing has decided he will not transfer. So where do Lane Kiffin and company go from here? Andre Champagne reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

____________________________________________

King Cake season is underway in Louisiana, and Colleen Crain says a healthy option is once again available.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

____________________________________________

I hope you took advantage of the great weather this week, because change is coming by the end of this weekend. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

______________________________________________

Two organizations that advocate for children and families in Louisiana join forces. The Louisiana Partnership for Children and Families merged with the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children, effective at the beginning of this year. LPIC CEO Libbie Sonnier says the two organizations had worked closely together for years, including launching the Geaux Far Louisiana initiative in 2021.

Cut 4 (13) “…Geaux Far Louisiana work.”

Sonnier says the merger of the two policy organizations will help it continue the course they had been on for years.

Cut 5 (09) “…with successful children.”

Sonnier says the merger will be beneficial from a financial standpoint as well, with the organization being able to maximize the limited funds it has.

Cut 6 (08) “…State of Louisiana.”

________________________________________________________

A high-profile quarterback that LSU reportedly had interest in signing has decided to stay at his current school. Demond Williams Jr. announced on Tuesday night that he was entering the transfer portal, but last night he announced he’s staying at Washington. Earlier this week, it seemed like former Arizona State Q-B Sam Leavitt was the Tigers top target. Tiger Rag-dot-com editor Glenn Guilbeau says LSU could see if Leavitt is still interested in the Tigers, but there is a health concern. 

Cut 7 (07) “…the summer, probably.”

Leavitt has been visiting Tennessee since Wednesday after spending a couple of days at LSU earlier this week.

Guilbeau says the transfer portal window opened last Friday and LSU still has not signed a quarterback…

Cut 8 (09) “…at Ole Miss.”

If Kiffin fails to land Leavitt, he’s either going to have to dig deep into the portal or sign someone out of high school, since LSU does not have a single scholarship quarterback on the roster at this time. Guilbeau says Kiffin and company have proven that they can work magic with quarterbacks.

Cut 9 (09)  “…quite a quarterback.”

A quarterback is visiting LSU today. Landen Clark from Elon. Clark threw for 23-hundred yards, 18 touchdowns and eight interceptions. He also rushed 641 yards and 11 touchdowns for the FSC.

______________________________________________________________

It’s King Cake season in Louisiana; and once again, Ochsner Health is offering its Eat Fit King Cake. Marie Page with Ochsner Eat Fit says Ochsner Health introduced the healthier King Cake about four years ago.

Cut 10 (08) “…the grocery stores.”

The Eat Fit King Cake is grain-free – it’s made with an almond flour and a coconut flour, giving it the texture of a bundt-style cake. It uses a plant-based sweetener and has no artificial colors. Page says it’s also guaranteed gluten-free.

Cut 11 (09) “…good on that.”

Page says the Eat Fit King Cake is available at more places than ever this year.

Cut 12 (08) “…one in Arkansas.”

They’re also available at all Ochsner cafes. To find a retailer near you, go to Eat Fit King Cake-dot-com.

_____________________________________________________________

I hope you enjoyed the heavenly temperatures over the last few days, because potentially severe storms are on the way. LSU Health Climatologist Barry Keim says the storm risk starts today.

Cut 13 (06)  “…winds and tornadoes.”

All this, as a cold front comes through the state. Keim says tomorrow will be a transitional day before temperatures really start to plummet. 

Cut 14 (10) “…Friday and Saturday.”

Keim says as you make your way into work in the early part of next week, you’ll want to bring your jacket with you, as overnight lows will get down into the 30s.

Cut 15 (09) “…in those temperatures.”

______________________________________________________________

Cut 16 (18) “…embraced his opportunity (2x).”

Cut 17 (15)  “…going to be.”

Cut 18 (18)  “…excited about that.” 

_________________________________________________________

Cut 19 (16) “…a blood clot.”

Cut 20 (12) “…back to winning.”

New Orleans is now back in the running to host the 2031 Super Bowl. So what are the city’s chances of landing the game that year? Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

____________________________________________

Governor Jeff Landry plans to attend a dogsledding event in Greenland. Jeff Palermo reports it’s part of his new part-time job as President Trump’s special envoy to Greenland.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

____________________________________________

Now that New Orleans is back in the running to host the 2031 Super Bowl, what are the city’s chances of landing the big game for that year? NOLA-dot-com columnist Jeff Duncan says like all other candidates, the city will have to make a strong pitch to the NFL – and he says the NFL is seeking high-end hospitality.

Cut 3 (12) “…events like that.”

And then, of course, there’s the fact that by the time the 2031 Super Bowl comes around, the Superdome could potentially be the second oldest stadium in the NFL. Duncan says that won’t be a factor – for now.

Cut 4 (12) “…a new stadium.”

Duncan says with many of the new stadiums being indoor stadiums, they could present significant roadblocks in New Orleans’ quest to host future Super Bowls if the city does not have a plan to eventually replace the Superdome.

Cut 5 (09) “…trying to fight.”

If New Orleans fails to land the 2031 Super Bowl, the city’s next opportunity will not come until 2038, given scheduling conflicts due to major conventions and Mardi Gras. A vote from the NFL owners on who will host the Super Bowl in 2031 is expected sometime this year.

____________________________________________

Governor Jeff Landry tells Fox News Radio he will travel to Greenland in a couple of months as part of his new part-time job as special envoy to Greenland. Landry says he wants to talk with the residents of the arctic island about the benefits of having a closer relationship with the United States…

Cut 6 (09) “…I’m going.”

President Trump has said Greenland is important to the United States for national security purposes. But Greenland is part of the Kingdom of Denmark. Landry says the case he will make to Greenlanders is that they should be independent from Denmark…

Cut 7 (10) “…United States.”

Denmark is staunchly opposed to the U-S taking over Greenland and Greenland opposes the idea of the U.S. buying or acquiring their land. Landry told Brian Kilmeade of Fox News that the United States could do more for Greenland than Denmark…

Cut 8 (09) “…and partner.”

____________________________________________

Three people lost their lives in an early morning crash at the major intersection of E. Broussard Rd. and Johnson Street in Lafayette Tuesday, Lafayette Police Sgt Robin Green…

Cut 9 (12)  “…Johnston Street.”

Both the second and third vehicles were stopped at traffic lights preparing to turn. The driver of the first vehicle was killed along with a mother and daughter who were in the second vehicle. The driver of the third vehicle sustained moderate injuries.

Sgt Green says the driver of the first vehicle who died in the accident has been identified as 21-year-old Joseph Prejean of Lafayette.

Cut 10 (09) “..also died.” 

The mother and daughter, both of Duson have been identified as 36-year-old Cherita Washington and 17-year-old Chase Washington. The driver of the third vehicle who also sustained injuries is listed as stable.

The crash occurred very early Tuesday morning, around 5:00 am. With the warm winter weather, early morning fog has decreased visibility on Louisiana roadways, but Sgt Green says fog was not a factor in this crash.

Cut 11 (04) “…to occur.”

____________________________________________

For the second year in a row, Louisiana is number-one in the nation for road rage incidents, ranging from aggressive driving to dangerous interactions, including gunfire. The ranking comes from consumeraffairs.com. LSU transportation expert Brian Wolshon says it’s easy, and sometimes natural, to be frustrated on the roadway – but he says people should always expect the unexpected.

Cut 12 (06) “…that’s difficult.”

Speed is another factor in people losing their cool on the roadways. Using the example of driving from Baton Rouge to New Orleans International Airport, Wolshon says speeding accomplishes nothing.

Cut 13 (09)  “…or four minutes.”

Wolshon says the best advice he can give drivers is to take a chill pill before getting behind the wheel.

Cut 14 (07) “…accommodate other people.”

2026 is going to be a big year for elections in Louisiana, including the U.S. Senate race and several special elections to fill vacancies in the legislature. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

____________________________________________

While the number of line of duty deaths ticked up slightly in Louisiana in 2025, they dipped to historic lows nationwide. Joe Gallinaro reports.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Joe Gallinaro.”

____________________________________________

2026 was already shaping up to be a big year for elections in Louisiana; and Secretary of State Nancy Landry says with several vacancies in the legislature, it will be even more so.

Cut 3 (11) “…May and June.”

Of course, the biggest race is that for U.S. Senate, where a handful of candidates are challenging incumbent Bill Cassidy for the Republican nomination in the newly-closed party primary. Landry says what the state really needs for all these elections is elections commissioners, who are paid to help run the polling places.

Cut 4 (11) “…do our elections.”

Landry says the state goes to great lengths to secure its elections, including greatly limiting who can and cannot handle the voting equipment.

Cut 5 (10) “…touch our machines.”

And the machines are never connected to the internet.

____________________________________________

While the number of line-of-duty deaths across the country greatly decreased in 2025, they ticked up in Louisiana. Last year, five law enforcement officers in Louisiana were killed in the line of duty, compared to three in 2024. The number of officers killed in Louisiana is the fifth highest in the country overall and the second highest per capita, ranking behind only Kansas. Bill Alexander, the CEO of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, says nationwide, 111 were killed in the line of duty last year.

Cut 6 (06) “…148 such deaths.”

Alexander says the number of line of duty deaths reached a historic low in 2025.

Cut 7 (07) “…or six decades.”

Alexander says you’d have to go back to 1943 to find a time when line of duty deaths were at a comparable level; that year, 94 officers were killed in the line of duty.

Cut 8 (09) “…to be going.”

Across the country, 44 officers were killed in firearm-related incidents, which is down from 52 in 2024. 34 officers were killed in traffic-related incidents last year; down from 44 from the year before.

____________________________________________

Louisiana is experiencing a heat wave during the first full week of January. LSU Health Climatologist Barry Keim says high temperatures will be touching the 80s for the rest of this work week

Cut 9 (10)  “…state of Louisiana.”

Keim says temperatures are running about 15-degrees above normal. He says it is typical for above-normal temperatures when a La Nina climate pattern is active as it is this winter…

Cut 10 (10) “..La Nina year.” 

Keim says when we have warm temperatures in the winter, expect foggy conditions in the morning….

Cut 11 (11) “…lots of fog.”

____________________________________________

Today marks the start of the Mardi Gras season and it also officially okay to consume King Cakes. Dave Haydel of Haydel Bakery says they had a line of people outside their store this morning and business has been steady all day. Haydel says the goal is to sell just as many king cakes as they did last year

Cut 12 (11) “…hard to say.”

Haydel of course is referring to the great south Louisiana snowstorm that blanketed the state in late January last year. He says prices are the same as last year…

Cut 13 (02)  “…for everybody.”

Saints and Pelicans owner Gayle Benson and Governor Landry are in New York, trying to lure two major sporting events to New Orleans. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

____________________________________________

A law that went into effect with the new year requires contractors to have a residential construction or roofing license to legally perform roofing work. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

____________________________________________

Saints and Pelicans owner Gayle Benson and Governor Landry are in New York to try to lure two major events to New Orleans – the 2031 Super Bowl and a future NBA All-Star Game. NOLA-dot-com columnist Jeff Duncan says if New Orleans fails to land the 2031 Super Bowl, the city’s next opportunity would not come until 2038. 

Cut 3 (07) “…chance we have.”

Benson and Landry will try to convince NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell to re-enter the competition, since they missed a key deadline as they were finalizing the Superdome lease renewal; and Duncan says he’s confident that Goodell will grant their request. Duncan says the NFL would like to see more high-end hotel room inventory – a problem he says is not unique to New Orleans.

Cut 4 (07) “…and Las Vegas.”

The Smoothie King Center has hosted the NBA All-Star Game three times, most recently in 2017. Duncan says in order for the building to host a fourth, it’s going to need a lot of renovations. He says the team and the city would like to, among many other things, improve the seating in the lower bowl. 

Cut 5 (07) “…important revenue streams.”

Duncan says there are also plans to transform Champions Square into a mixed-use area, incorporating entertainment, retail and possibly residential.

____________________________________________

The Old Governor’s Mansion in Baton Rouge has a new exhibit. It’s called “Three Decades of Change” and it examines the tenure of nine governors who lived at the old governor’s mansion from 1929 to 1962. Executive Director of the Old Governor’s Mansion, Sinella Aghasi, says these men guided Louisiana through some of the most challenging days in the state’s and nation’s history…

Cut 6 (13) “…Civil Rights Movement.”

Aghasi says the exhibit features images and artifacts from that time. The time period covers World War Two. Sam Houston Jones and James Houston Davis were the governor’s during that time and Aghasi says the state took on a major initiative to help fund combat operations…

Cut 7 (07) “…war bonds.”

Admission to the Old Governor’s Mansion is free and the museum is open from 9 AM to 4 PM Monday through Friday and noon to 4 PM on the first Sunday of each month.

___________________________________________________________

If you need a new roof, a new law went into effect on January 1^st that you should know about. Executive Director of the State Licensing Board for Contractors, Brad Hassert, says only contractors with a residential construction or roofing license can legally perform roofing work…

Cut 8 (09) “…lower them rates”

Hassert says the change in the law will ensure that roofing work is conducted by qualified professionals who received a license after passing a roofing exam…

Cut 9 (08)  “…install a roof.”

Prior to January 1^st, state law allowed for home improvement contractors to install roofs, but Hassert says they do not have the necessary qualifications…

Cut 10 (11) “…control that.” 

Hassert says it’s also now a criminal offense to do contracting without the proper license class.

____________________________________________________________

Saints’ veteran defensive tackle Cam Jordan just wrapped up his 15^th season playing in the NFL. Jordan says playing a 16th season will come down to his wife, Nikki’s, approval.

Cut 11 (11) “…where it takes us.”

Jordan finished his 15^th season in New Orleans with 10-and-a-half sacks, which was tied for 13^th in the NFL. Jordan says he believes he can still hang with the younger players in the league.

Cut 12 (12) “…who I’ve always been.”

Jordan says that he is grateful for the New Orleans community and knows he has the physical ability to continue playing if he chooses to do so.

Cut 13 (13)  “…longer career.”

Planning for the 2026 legislative session will intensify now that it’s a new year. Jeff Palermo reports on the big issues lawmakers will tackle this year…

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

____________________________________________

Dr. Marie Vasquez Morgan with LSU Health Shreveport has the info you need not to fail your health resolutions for 2026. Kace Kieschnick reports.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Kace Kieschnck.”

____________________________________________

A statue is unveiled in Avoyelles Parish to commemorate the 165th anniversary of the liberation of a wrongfully enslaved man. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 3 (37) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

______________________________________________

In three months, state lawmakers will head to Baton Rouge for the regular legislative session. Senate President Cameron Henry anticipates a lengthy discussion about the state’s future energy needs, with construction beginning on two massive data centers, and the possibility of more data centers being built in the Bayou State…

Cut 4 (10) “…long run”

Lawmakers will not have to worry about budget cuts. That’s because of stronger than expected tax collections could result in a nearly 300-million-dollar surplus when the current fiscal year ends on June 30th. Henry says he’s not looking to go on a spending spree, instead the legislature should practice fiscal restraint…

Cut 5 (08) “…to have.”

Auto insurance reform was a significant issue in last year’s legislative session as lawmakers approved legislation intended to reduce court settlements and frivolous lawsuits that insurance companies say are resulting in the highest rates in the nation. Henry says several of those new laws did not take effect until January 1^st, and they need to see how they impact rates…

Cut 6 (11) “…auto insurance”

The legislative session begins March 9th and ends June 1st.

________________________________________________________

If the New Year resolved to lead a healthier lifestyle, LSU Health Shreveport Director of Institutional Wellness Dr. Marie Vasquez Morgan has some advice. She says maintaining any resolution starts with setting S.M.A.R.T goals.

Cut 7 (13) “…time-bound.”

She says we are what we eat, and everything starts with the food you choose to fuel your body. Dr. Morgan says focus on balanced meals with lean protein, whole grains, and lots of fruits and vegetables.

Cut 8 (10) “…and antioxidants.”

If you’re looking to be more active in 2026, she recommends finding exercises you enjoy. If you feel you can’t make time for activity, small changes in your daily life can make a world of impact. Dr. Morgan says consistency is most important.

Cut 9 (14)  “…big difference.”

______________________________________________

A statue was unveiled in Avoyelles Parish to commemorate the 165th anniversary of the liberation of a wrongfully enslaved man. Solomon Northup was born a free man in upstate New York in 1807; Melissa Howell, a direct descendant, says in 1841, two men approached him with what seemed to be a lucrative offer.

Cut 10 (14) “…nearly 12 years.”

That change was not for the better. Howell says the men tricked Northup into slavery.

Cut 11 (11) “…in the Capitol.”

Northup’s 12-year slavery journey ultimately led him to Louisiana, where a carpenter named Samuel Bass befriended him and ultimately helped him escape. Howell says the location of the statue of Northup, who was given the name “Platt Hamilton” by his slavemasters, is very significant. 

Cut 12 (11) “…his reclaimed freedom.”

The statue was sculpted by Wesley Wofford. Northup’s story is immortalized in his 1853 autobiography, “12 Years a Slave,” which was adapted in 2014 into an Academy Award-winning picture of the same name. A screening of that film was held over the weekend in Marksville.

_______________________________________________

The federal government minted its last penny about two months ago, but it will be decades before the penny becomes a rare coin. Newly confirmed U.S. Mint Director Paul Hollis from Mandeville says enough pennies have been minted to stack them to the moon and back.

Cut 13 (08)  “…I hope.”

In addition to the massive amount already in circulation, the fact that Americans rarely use cash anymore will prolong the penny’s survival. Hollis says consumers are using coins less and less.

Cut 14 (09) “…or coin.”

Some stores are already price-rounding to eliminate the need for pennies. Hollis hopes retailers will do so in favor of the consumer.

Cut 15 (06) “…of the customers.”

_________________________________________________

The Saints’ season ended with a hard-fought19-17 loss to Atlanta. New Orleans finishes with 6-11, but there’s a lot of optimism about what next year will bring. That’s because of rookie quarterback Tyler Shough, who led the team to a four-game winning streak that ended with the loss to the Falcons. Linebacker Demario Davis believes the Saints have their Q-B 1…

Cut 16 (24) “…trust.”

Shough threw for 259 yards and a touchdown, and he also ran for a touchdown. But he also threw a critical interception in the fourth quarter when New Orleans had a chance to take the lead. The loss to the Dirty Birds resulted in Carolina winning the NFC South, instead of Tampa Bay. Shough says he wanted to finish the season on a five-game winning streak…

Cut 17 (12)  “…encouraging.”

The Saints went 5-4 in the nine games he started at quarterback.

Davis says he plans to return for year 15 in the NFL. He believes the Black and Gold have a good nucleus of players on defense…

Cut 18 (20)  “…Chase Young.” 

____________________________________________

The fifth-ranked LSU women’s basketball team is off to a 0-2 start in SEC play for the first time under head coach Kim Mulkey. The Lady Tigers followed up a two-point loss to 11th-ranked Kentucky with a 65-61 loss to 12th-ranked Vanderbilt. In both games, LSU could not hold on to a seven-point fourth-quarter lead. Coach Kim Mulkey has questioned her team’s toughness after both losses…

Cut 19 (18) “…Ole Miss previously.”

LSU’s next game is Thursday against 15-1 Georgia. Following the trip to Athens, the Lady Tigers face two teams ranked in the Top 10, Texas and Oklahoma. Mulkey on the difficult schedule her team faces…

Cut 20 (12) “…get better.”

Authorities arrest a Baton Rouge man accused of shooting a two-year-old girl on New Year’s Eve, leaving her in critical condition. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

____________________________________________

Ole Miss is one win away from the national championship game after taking down Georgia in the Sugar Bowl, but what coaches make the trip to the Fiesta Bowl is still in the air. Kace Kieschnick reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…Kace Kieschnick.”

____________________________________________

A 27-year-old Baton Rouge man was arrested in connection with the shooting of a 2-year-old girl inside a car yesterday afternoon. BRPD Lieutenant L’Jean McKneely says the incident occurred when a woman spotted what she believed was her relative’s stolen vehicle and began following it.

Cut 3 (08) “…of the vehicle.”

Landrick Ruffin Jr. is facing six counts of attempted first degree murder and illegal use of a weapon after police tracked down the suspect vehicle. McKneely says the child was struck in the head and brought to a local hospital where she is in critical condition.

Cut 4 (09) “…Baton Rouge community.”

Ruffin has a prior arrest history including possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, resisting, possession with intent to distribute schedule I narcotics and illegal carrying of weapons

McKneely says this is not the first incident like this he’s seen. He reminds residents to contact police if they locate their stolen vehicle.

Cut 5 (11) “…that are following.”

____________________________________________

Saints linebacker Demario Davis has announced that he will be returning for a 15th NFL season next season. Davis says today’s game allows for longevity that the game of years past didn’t allow for.

Cut 6 (14) “…you maximize it.”

Davis says advances in medical science allows players to enjoy longer careers in the NFL.

Cut 7 (13) “…to regenerate faster.”

Not only will 2026 be Davis’ 15th season in the NFL, but it will be his ninth season with the Saints. While this season got off to a rough start, with the team losing eight of its first nine games, the team seems to have turned the corner with Tyler Shough at quarterback, winning four in a row and five of its last seven. Davis says this late season surge has him excited for 2026.

Cut 8 (11) “…momentum of this?”

This season, Davis has a career-high 137 tackles, including 63 solo tackles, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery. For him to return to New Orleans, he’ll need a new contract with the Saints. 

____________________________________________

Ole Miss is headed to the Fiesta Bowl to face Miami with a trip to the national championship on the line, but there’s been uncertainty about whether the six LSU assistant coaches on the Rebels’ staff will continue coaching. Tiger Rag Editor Glenn Guilbeau says any hesitation is on the Ole Miss side.

Cut 9 (11)  “…Charlie Weis.”

LSU head coach Lane Kiffin was not allowed to lead the Rebels playoff run after taking the job in Baton Rouge. He was very vocal about wanting to coach his team, and Guilbeau says he’s stayed involved in Oxford while prepping LSU for the transfer window.

Cut 10 (13) “….kind of unified.” 

LSU is on the books for any playoff bonuses in Kiffin’s Ole Miss contract and owe him another five-hundred-thousand dollars after the Rebels’ Sugar Bowl win. Guilbeau says the hostility between the two schools is really only from the fanbases.

Cut 11 (13) “…that’s clear.”

____________________________________________

The Lady Tigers lost their first game of the season after 11^th-ranked Kentucky hit a last second three pointer to win 80-78 in LSU’s SEC opener last night. The Lady Tigers were outrebounded 17-to-4 on the offensive glass and coach Kim Mulkey says that was the difference in the game.

Cut 12 (14) “…fix that.”

Fifth-ranked LSU will have a quick turnaround as they visit No. 12 Vanderbilt Sunday. Mulkey says she needs to see more from her young, talented team as they prepare for a tough beginning to conference play.

Cut 13 (12)  “…pity party.”

LSU will be on the road at Georgia next week before back-to-back top ten matchups with Texas and Oklahoma.

____________________________________________

LSU will face Texas A&M tomorrow in their first SEC game of the season. The 12-and-1 Tigers are off to maybe their strongest start under head coach Matt McMahon with a marquee win over SMU and their only loss coming to 12^th-ranked Texas Tech. McMahon says conference play will be another level of competition.

Cut 14 (14) “…great atmoshperes.”

The 10-and-3 Aggies are favored at home against LSU thanks to an explosive offense ranked second in the SEC in points and three point percentage. McMahon says their defense is no slouch either.

Cut 15 (10) “…a premium.”

A&M is second in the conference with over 16 turnovers forced per game. Tip-off is at 3 p.m.

With the New Year’s holiday upon us, the French Quarter Enhanced Security Zone has been re-established. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

____________________________________________

For a fifth consecutive year, Louisiana will have a float in the Tournament of Roses New Year’s Day parade in Pasadena, California. Jeff Palermo has the story

Cut 2 (35) “…Jeff Palermo.”

____________________________________________

If you’re planning on ringing in the new year in the French Quarter, there are things you need to know before you go, especially in light of what happened just after we rang in the start of this year. The French Quarter Enhanced Security Zone is re-established, encompassing an area bound by Canal, Royal, St. Ann and Dauphine streets. State Police Trooper Danny Berrincha says when entering that area, the best rule of thumb is to bring as few items with you as possible.

Cut 3 (09) “…to the entry.”

Berrincha says visitors staying in hotels on Bourbon Street should use the entrances on Royal Street or Dauphine Street if possible.

Cut 4 (09) “…as your identification.”

With the exception of emergency purposes, vehicles are prohibited from entering the zone – essentially Bourbon Street and one block in either direction. Glade Bilby, the president of The French Quarter Citizens, says he agrees with that move.

Cut 5 (08) “…are not driving.”

Bilby says in light of what happened at the outset of this year, New Orleans has no other option but to take extra precautions and significantly beef up security to give visitors peace of mind.

Cut 6 (10) “…with security measures.”

____________________________________________

As the clock ticks towards midnight, some people will be celebrating the end of 2025 and the beginning of 2026 by popping fireworks. If you’re among them, there are things you need to know to stay safe. Ken Pastorick with the Office of the State Fire Marshal says when shooting fireworks, make sure you’re in an open area.

Cut 7 (05) “…these things off.”

Pastorick says never put dry fireworks debris in garbage cans – embers can ignite and start a fire; and if that can is next to your house, you can burn your house down.

Cut 8 (06) “…the garbage can.”

Pastorick says kids should never handle fireworks. Some adults may give kids sparklers instead; Pastorick says that’s a bad idea too.

Cut 9 (04)  “…to melt metal.”

Pastorick says the best things to give kids are glow sticks.

____________________________________________

Louisiana State Parks wants residents to take a hike!  Assistant Secretary for Louisiana State Parks, Brandon Burris, says there will be free admission to State Parks on New Year’s Day and January 2^nd so people can begin the new year with a hike to connect with the outdoors…

Cut 10 (11) “….great hike” 

Burris says for a full listing of events and to plan your First Day Hike, visit the Louisiana State Parks First Day Hikes webpage…

Cut 11 (07) “…more advanced hikes.”

Burris says First Day Hikes are a great way to get moving and enjoy the beautiful landscapes at State Parks…

Cut 12 (15) “…experience.”

The 2025 Christmas holiday was a deadly one on Louisiana roadways. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

____________________________________________

Bourbon Street is now closed to motor vehicles through Friday as part of the French Quarter Enhanced Security Zone, but one prominent injury lawyer says that’s not enough. Jeff Palermo reports.

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

____________________________________________

New LSU offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. spoke of his relationship with new LSU head coach Lane Kiffin ahead of Ole Miss’ Sugar Bowl matchup with Georgia. Andre Champagne has more.

Cut 3 (29) “…I’m Andre Champagne.”

____________________________________________

It was a deadly Christmas holiday on Louisiana roadways, as 13 people were killed in crashes from Christmas Day through Monday morning. State Police Trooper Shelby Mayfield says all 13 deaths were preventable.

Cut 4 (09) “…was a factor.”

Thursday morning was very foggy, which was augmented by the smoke coming from the bonfires along the Mississippi River the night before. Mayfield says foggy conditions are no excuse.

Cut 5 (11) “…injury crash happening.”

Mayfield says when you make your way around the state for your New Year’s celebrations, you can expect a beefed-up State Police presence.

Cut 6 (09) “…around certain areas.”

The 13 deaths over the four-day Christmas holiday period makes 2025 the third deadliest in the state since 2015, topped only by 17 deaths in 2021 and 16 deaths in 2018.

____________________________________________

The French Quarter Enhanced Security Zone is re-established through Friday. Among other things, motor vehicles are prohibited from entering Bourbon Street through the end of the day Friday. But injury attorney Morris Bart, who’s representing dozens of victims and families impacted by the terror attack this past New Year’s Day, says that’s not enough.

Cut 7 (10) “…never happens again.”

Bart says it doesn’t require an occasion like New Year’s, the Sugar Bowl or Mardi Gras to take enhanced measures to close off Bourbon Street.

Cut 8 (12) “…a good time.”

Years prior to the attack, the City of New Orleans had acquired removable bollards from engineering firm Mott MacDonald, which often failed when the tracks they moved on became clogged by drinks and beads. Bart says litigation research shows that those decorative bollards will only stop vehicles going up to five miles an hour.

Cut 9 (07)  “…heavy duty bollards.”

____________________________________________

Today is the final day of 2025, and the biggest story of the year happened just a few hours in on the first day. A 42-year-old U.S. Citizen, who authorities say was inspired by ISIS, sped down Bourbon Street, running over several New Year’s Day revelers, killing 14 people and injuring several more. New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick described the horrific event

Cut 10 (07) “…he possibly could.”

Governor Landry has ordered an official four-day period of mourning beginning this New Year’s Day.

Another major story in 2025 was the state legislature’s efforts to reduce insurance costs. Most of the legislation targeted efforts to reduce auto insurance rates, including a new law that gives Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple more authority to reject rate increases. Temple clashed with Governor Landry over the measure.

Cut 11 (10) “…sooner than that.”

The biggest sports story of the year was the firing of LSU football coach Brian Kelly and Athletic Director Scott Woodward after a blowout loss to Texas A&M on October 25th. Governor Landry made it known he was not a fan of Kelly’s contract and said Woodward would not hire the next head football coach at LSU.

Cut 12 (10) “…us a coach.”

LSU announced Lane Kiffin as its new football coach on November 30th — a decision made in part by new Athletic Director Verge Ausberry, who had the interim tag removed just days after being inserted into the role.

____________________________________________

Offensive coordinator Charlie Weis Jr. is following head coach Lane Kiffin to Baton Rouge. But first, he’s coaching Ole Miss for the rest of the College Football Playoff, starting with tomorrow night’s Sugar Bowl against Georgia. Weis says it was a tough decision to make, but he believes it was the right one.

Cut 13 (14)  “…later on too.”

Weis went to Baton Rouge after the Rebels’ 41-10 win over Tulane in the first round. Weis says he’s been doing his best to do right by Ole Miss in finishing the season out while carrying out daily duties for his new LSU gig.

Cut 14 (11) “…distraction at all.”

Weis and Kiffin’s relationship dates back to coaching together on the Alabama staff in 2015. Weis also followed Kiffin to Florida Atlantic and to Ole Miss. Weis says Kiffin has a special ability to develop quarterbacks.

Cut 15 (09) “…makes coach great.”

____________________________________________

Louisiana Tech are Independence Bowl Champs for the fourth time in school history. The Bulldogs overcame an 11-point halftime deficit to defeat Coastal Carolina 23-14. The Dogs’ defense allowed 248 yards in the first half but shut out the Chanticleers in the second and forced three turnovers. Cornerback Cedric Woods says they were ready for anything.

Cut 16 (19) “…getting turnovers.”

The Tech offense found its groove after a sluggish first-half performance. The Bulldogs had four turnovers of their own, but scored 17 points in the fourth quarter, including a 52-yard pass to wideout Marlion (Mar-lun) Jackson. Quarterback Trey Kukuk (Kew-kuk) totaled over 100 yards through the air and on the ground and says this LA Tech team is defined by resilience.

Cut 17 (17)  “…gave up.”

The victory is LA Tech’s first bowl win since 2019 and will finish the season 8-and-5, head coach Sonny Cumbie’s best mark in four years in Ruston. Cumbie says, despite national narratives, bowl games are as important as ever, and he hopes this season’s success can welcome a new era in Bulldogs football.

Cut 18 (15)  “…of the season.” 

Tourists are once again packing New Orleans to ring in the new year. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

____________________________________________

Two all-time great players from the Saints are finalists for the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame class. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 2 (31) “…Jeff Palermo.”

____________________________________________

Visitors flock to New Orleans every year to ring in the new year, and this year is no different. Walt Leger, the president and CEO of New Orleans and Company, says bolstered by football fans visiting from Athens, Georgia, and Oxford, Mississippi, hotels throughout the city are packed.

Cut 3 (10) “…restaurants, shops.”

And that’s going to mean an economic impact of about 200-million dollars this week alone. Leger says those visitors will have plenty of activities to choose from this week.

Cut 4 (12) “…the fireworks show.”

It was one year ago when a terrorist plowed a vehicle into a crowd of new year’s revelers on Bourbon Street, killing 14 people. Leger says while the city has learned from that incident and is taking measures to prevent a repeat occurrence, the city is not going to let that define it.

Cut 5 (13) “…dim that light.”

____________________________________________

It’s going to be another cold night throughout the state tonight, so the State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding you to be extra vigilant when keeping your house warm. Spokesman Ken Pastorick says use extra precautions when using a space heater.

Cut 6 (07) “…things like that.”

Pastorick says you should never resort to creative methods to heat your home, like running a gas stove. That will produce carbon monoxide, which will kill you. Pastorick also reminds you not to leave fires in fireplaces lit overnight.

Cut 7 (09) “…while you’re sleeping.”

Pastorick says as always, make sure you have working smoke detectors in your home – they often are the difference between life and death.

Cut 8 (07) “…working smoke alarms.”

____________________________________________

Temperatures will fall below freezing for several hours tonight and into tomorrow morning for areas north of I-10 and I-12. LRN Meteorologist Bill Jacquemin says cold weather precautions should be taken…

Cut 9 (08)  “…coastal parishes.”

Jacquemin says gusty north winds continue this afternoon, before weakening tonight, but we’ll still see wind chill readings…

Cut 10 (05) “…tonight.”

______________________________________________________

Former Saints stars Drew Brees and Jahri Evans are among the 15 modern-era finalists for the 2026 Pro Football Hall of Fame class. WWL Radio Saints analyst Mike Detillier says Brees is a lock to get in after throwing for 80-thousand yards, the second most in NFL history…

Cut 11 (11) “…before.”

Brees led the Saints to their only Super Bowl title in 2009 and is the only player in club history to win the league’s Offensive Player of the Year Award, which he won twice. Brees is trying to become the first Saints player to be elected on the first ballot of his Hall of Fame candidacy and Detillier believes it will happen…

Cut 12 (06) “…Drew Brees.”

Former Saints offensive guard Jahri Evans is also a finalist. Detillier says Evans has been a finalist the last three years and this might be his year…

Cut 13 (11)  “…he was.”

New Orleans natives Eli Manning and Reggie Wayne are also finalists. Manning won two Super Bowls as the quarterback of the New York Giants, while Wayne was a great receiver for the Colts and ranks 10th all-time in both receiving yards and receptions.