The U.S Justice Department is investigating the Louisiana Department of Corrections over the long delays in releasing prisoners past their release dates. Jeff Palermo has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “ …I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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In Acadiana, the state health department reports just four ICU beds are available, which is a concern for hospital staff in the Lafayette area. Brooke Thorington has more

cut 2 (31) …I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

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The US Department of Justice is investigating the Louisiana Department of Corrections over allegations the state is keeping prisoners incarcerated long past their release date.

Attorney William Most says the DOC has known since 2012 that they hold about 2,200 inmates past their release date every year.

Cut 3 (11)  “…per year.”

The investigation was the result of a series of lawsuits that uncovered information about the overdue release of prisoners.

Most identified one of the biggest problems leading to these delays.

Cut 4 (11)   “…time.”  

Most says other states have release delays of a few days at most, and that no other state they’ve found has delays that last over a month.

Most says not only is the practice unjust and illegal, it’s costing taxpayers a lot of money.

Cut 5  (08) “..didn’t.” 

The Louisiana Department of Corrections says they will fully cooperate with the US Department of Justice and the DOC takes this very seriously.

_____________________________________________

The state health department reports all but four ICU beds are in use at Acadiana region hospitals as COVID numbers continue to spike. Dr. Henry Kaufman, Chief Medical Officer at Our Lady of Lourdes in Lafayette, is extremely concerned.

Cut 6 (12) “…heading.”

Kaufman says the hospital is licensed for a specific number of beds with supporting staff, but they can expand into other areas of the hospital if needed.  As for staffing Kaufman says medical professionals have one of the highest burn-out rates and the ongoing pandemic has been taxing

Cut 7 (12) “..do it.”

Kaufman says while the majority of those who contract COVID will not require extensive care it’s when a surge breaks out hospitalizations go up.

Cut 8 (11) “…a crisis.”

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The organizer of a swingers convention in New Orleans where 41 of the people who attended ended up positive for COVID-19 days after the event last month is planning another convention in the Big Easy in 2021. But Bob Hannaford told the Jim Engster show that their next convention is scheduled for August

Cut 9 (08) “…forward”

Hannaford says he now regrets holding the convention this year after dozens of attendees tested positive for COVID-19 and one person had to be hospitalized. He says they did what they could to prevent an outbreak…

Cut 10 (11) “…socialize.”

About two-thousand people attended the convention last year, but only 300 this year.  Naughty N’awlins is described as an opportunity for open-minded couples to embrace their sexuality.  Hannaford says based on their own contact tracing, sexual activity was not the main reason for the spread of the virus…

Cut 11 (12) “…who knows.”

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Polls open statewide at 7 AM and will stay open until 8 PM Saturday for the December runoff election. The Presidential election saw a 70 percent turnout, but Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin says this time around they only expect 20 percent.

Cut 12 (10) “…this time” 

Ardoin says the big drop in turnout is proof the state needs to move away from December elections. He says it’s just not a convenient time for fatigued voters.

Cut 13 (12) “… burnout”

Voters will have to follow all the same COVID guidelines as they did in November. That means masking up and staying six feet apart.

The ballot has one statewide amendment along with a series of local DA’s and judicial runoffs, a Congressional race in the 5^th District, a Public Service Commission runoff, and a Mayor’s race…

Cut 14 (04) “…and vote.” 

________________________

LSU’s defense played its best game of the year last Saturday and they face a huge challenge on Saturday when they host number one ranked Alabama, who is averaging 49 points a game. Defensive Coordinator Bo Pelini says it took time for him to learn the personnel and the players to learn his 4-3 system.

Cut 15 (11) “…starting to understand.” 

Pelini is impressed with Alabama’s offense which is led by Heisman Trophy candidate quarterback Mac Jones, bruising running back Najee Harris and Louisiana’s own DeVonta Smith, who has 12 touchdowns.

Cut 16 (10) “…do that yet” 

A swingers convention in New Orleans held last month is making national headlines as s super spreader event. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31) “  I’m Brooke Thorington”  

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Today the US Supreme Court heard arguments in a case that argues all Louisiana prisoners serving time on a non-unanimous jury verdict deserve a retrial. Matt Doyle has the story.

cut 2 (29) … I’m Matt Doyle.”  

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A swingers and alternative lifestyle convention held in New Orleans last month produced 41 positive COVID-19 cases according to organizers. The annual Naughty Nawlins had 250 attendees. Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s spokesperson, Beau Tidwell, says he’s heard all the jokes, but the event has serious consequences.

Cut 3 (12)  “…reason for that.”

Event organizer Bob Hannaford says they incorporated COVID guidelines including testing and admits they neglected to social distance. Hannaford says most of the cases were asymptomatic or very mild, but one had to be hospitalized.

Tidwell says he would not wish the virus on anyone…

Cut 4 (11)   “…guidelines.”  

Tidwell says the convention was not a permitted event and they did meet with organizers prior to the convention and discussed safety protocols.

Cut 5  (11) “…spreader event.” 

The event, originally scheduled for July, normally attracts 2,000 attendees.

_____________________________________________

The US Supreme Court heard arguments today in a case involving a Louisiana man that could result in retrials for prisoners serving time on non-unanimous verdicts.

Attorney Andre Belanger argued an earlier ruling that deemed non-unanimous jury verdicts unconstitutional should be retroactive.

Cut 6 (12) “..at all”

Belanger represents Thedrick Edwards, who is serving a life sentence in Angola on multiple non-unanimous convictions related to a 2006 crime spree in Baton Rouge.

Louisiana Solicitor General Liz Murrill argued against giving Edwards and other non-unanimously convicted inmates retrials.

Cut 7 (08) “..verdict.”

Murrill said that in Edwards’ case his crimes are severe, had an eye witness, and included armed robbery, kidnapping, and rape. She also said Edwards ultimately confessed to committing the crimes.

An estimated 1,500 Louisiana inmates are behind bars right now due to non-unanimous convictions. Murrill said giving them all retrials would be a burden.

Cut 8 (09) “crimes”

But Belanger countered…

Cut 9 (09) “..right”

In 2018 Louisiana voters approved a constitutional amendment requiring unanimous verdicts. That law took effect in 2019 but was not retroactive.

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A homicide suspect out of Ohio was killed during a shootout with federal authorities at a motel in Pineville. 47-year-old James Edward Hawley, who also went by the alias of Ahmad Ben David, was wanted for the murder of 69-year-old Norma Matko and the disappearance of her 45-year-old daughter. FBI special agent John Fortunado

Cut 10 (06) “.arrest warrant”

An FBI agent was wounded during the exchange of gunfire. The missing woman. 45-year-old Thoue Nichole Bronowski was found alive in the apartment.

Fortunado says they knew Hawley was armed and dangerous based on the online photos he posted of himself with firearms

Cut 11 (07) “…some cops.”

Authorities say Bronowski was kidnapped last Wednesday and they believe her disappearance is linked to her mother’s death. Fortunado credits the work of the FBI office in New Orleans in helping to locate Hawley…

Cut 12 (11) “…they could” 

____________________

Entergy Louisiana is reportedly on track to produce enough power from solar plants to fuel 60,000 homes within the next three years. Entergy Louisiana Director of Resource Planning Jonathan Bourge says that started with a solar plant in West Baton Rouge Parish.

Cut 13 (11) “… resources”

Six of Entergy’s either constructed or planned sites are clustered in southeast Louisiana. Bourge says the area is just right for solar farming.

Cut 14 (08) “.forward” 

Entergy has issued a proposal to construct a solar energy farm in Morehouse Parish. If approved it would be the only site outside of southeast Louisiana in the state.

Windfarms and hydroplants are gaining in popularity in other parts of the country but Bourge says in Louisiana solar is the focus for renewable energy.

Cut 15 (10) “..energy” 

Southwest Louisiana breathes a sigh of relief as the 2020 Hurricane Season comes to an end. Matt Doyle spoke with Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter about the historic struggles his city faces…

Cut 1 (30) “  I’m Matt Doyle”  

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LSU’s best wide receiver Terrace Marshall has decided to end his college career and get ready for the NFL draft. Jeff Palermo has the story..

cut 2 (31) … I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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We will see the coldest temperatures of the season tomorrow morning with lows dipping into the upper 20s. State Fire Marshal spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says if you use a space heater, make sure it’s at least three feet away from combustible objects and plugged directly into wall outlets

Cut 3 (10)  “…a fire”

Rodrigue says make sure you have a working smoke detector…

Cut 4 (11)   “…our website”  

Rodrigue also advises residents to get a carbon monoxide detector. She says if you have a chimney that can burn wood, make sure you have the chimney cleaned before starting a fire…

Cut 5  (10) “… too late” 

_____________________________________________

Southwest Louisiana says good riddance to the worst hurricane season in recent memory. Lake Charles and surrounding areas were hammered by Hurricane Laura in late August and then Hurricane Delta six weeks later. Mayor Nic Hunter says residents are still fighting to recover.

Cut 6 (09) “..pieces.”

Laura was tied for the most powerful storm to make landfall in Louisiana in recorded history. It brought horrendous wind damage that stretched from Cameron Parish all the way into Monroe. Delta produced heavy floods due to rain.

Hunter says the good news is that vital services have returned and major employers and industries in the area are committed to staying.

Cut 7 (12) “..back.”

Hunter says they don’t quite have a timeline on when life will fully return to normal but it’s likely to at least take months as debris still lines the streets.

Cut 8 (12) “.basis.”

_______________________________________________________

In Kenner, a 30-year old gas station clerk was brutally murdered early this morning after cooperating with two men that robbed the store. Kenner PD Lt. Michael Cunningham says Abd Del Ghader Sylla was killed when two men entered the station on Williams Boulevard as if they were shopping then approached the clerk with a gun and demanded cash.

Cut 9 (12) “…no reason.”

Kenner Police are asking for the public’s assistance as the suspects remain at large. Photos of the suspects are posted on the Kenner PD’s Facebook page; Cunningham says the gunman was wearing a white knit cap and black face mask.

Cut 10 (10) “…call us.”

Cunningham says surveillance video from the store shows Sylla cooperated with the suspects and no struggle ensued whatsoever, but still the clerk was shot while on his knees with his hands in the air.

Cut 11 (07) “…the street.”

You can call Kenner Police Department at (504) 712-2222 or Crimestoppers at (504) 822-1111

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Today is Cyber Monday, one of the largest online shopping days of the year. Carmen Million with the Better Business Bureau of South-Central Louisiana says according to an Accenture Holiday Shopping Survey more people are shopping online this year than before.

Cut 12 (12) “…COVID disease.” 

Million says there are a few things you should do to make sure your online purchases are safe, for example, avoid popup windows and check for secure sites.

Cut 13 (12) “… it’s activated.”

Million says also look for the Better Business Bureau seal and click on it to see if they are an actual accredited member.

Another tip before you put that purchase in your shopping cart, Million says to compare prices but also check shipping dates so it will arrive on time. But most importantly Million says to use a credit card as opposed to a debit card, where the money comes directly out of your account.

Cut 14 (11) “…misrepresented” 

Also check return policies, especially on large items, you might be responsible for a restocking fee and shipping.

One sector that has seen an increase in sales this year despite COVID is the real estate industry, Brooke Thorington tells us how things are in the Bayou State

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________

Matt Doyle checks in with ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley for the state of the 5^th Congressional District run-off race ahead of Saturday’s election…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Matt Doyle.” 

__________________________________________

Today marks the end of the 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season. Matt Doyle spoke with State Climatologist Barry Keim about this record breaking year…

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

__________________________________________

According to Zillow, more homes are changing hands now than in the last 15 years, something that is hard to believe in a year of economic downturn. CEO of Louisiana Realtors Norman Morris says historically low mortgage rates are allowing many to become homeowners for the first time and existing homeowners to upgrade.

Cut 4 (12) “…larger home.”

Morris says some areas across the state are reporting quite an increase in sales compared to 2019, for example, in Northeast Louisiana, residential sales are up 13-percent, in the Central part of the state they’ve seen an increase of 16 million in sales, Northwest Louisiana is up 8-percent and the New Orleans market is up 15-percent.

Cut 5 (11) “…11 months.”

Morris says many buyers are looking for additional space to create a home office now that more employers are allowing workers to work from home during the pandemic.

Morris also credits Realtors for their adaptability to the changing market and embracing technology to show homes for a safer experience.

Cut 6 (10) “…COVID time.”

________________________

The race for the open 5^th District Congressional seat will be decided Saturday with state lawmaker Lance Harris up against retiring Congressman Ralph Abraham’s former Chief of Staff Luke Letlow. ULM Poli Sci Professor Joshua Stockley says Letlow is the favorite given his substantial fundraising lead…

Cut 7 (10)  “…place.”

Harris has raised half a million dollars to Letlow’s 1.1 million.

But Stockley cautions against counting Harris out. He says this race is likely to come down to geography with Harris being from Alexandria and Letlow hailing from Ouachita Parish.

Cut 8 (10) “…election.”

Letlow secured 33 percent of the vote in the first round while Harris grabbed 17-percent, just nudging past Democrat Sandra Christophe’s to make the runoff.

Democratic candidates secured about a third of the vote in the primary, but Stockley says many of those voters will not cast a ballot in the December runoff…

Cut 9 (11) “…vote.

_____________________________________________________

A historic 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season ends today, one Louisiana residents will remember for a long time. State Climatologist Barry Keim notes the 30 total named storms broke the record of 28 set in 2005, and of those 30, five made landfall in Louisiana, another record.

Cut 10 (08) “…December”

12 named storms made landfall in the United States, also a record.

Southwest Louisiana is still recovering from Hurricanes Laura and Delta. Keim says Laura tied for the honors of being the most powerful storm to make landfall in Louisiana in recorded history.

Cut 11 (11) “..parish”

Laura made landfall on August 27^th. After that ten named storms then developed in September, also a record, including one day where three named storms formed within six hours of each other, another record.

Keim also says we had a highly unusual number of dual landfalls, where named storms make landfall practically in the same place at different times.

Cut 12 (13) “.Louisiana”

_____________________________________________________

It wasn’t much of a football game, but it goes down as a Black and Gold victory as New Orleans defeated the quarterback less Denver Broncos 31-3. Because of COVID issues involving the Broncos QBs, Denver was forced to use a practice squad receiver and running backs as their quarterbacks. Coach Sean Payton summed it up well…

Cut 13 (06) “…it is what is”

The victory improves the Saints record to 9-2 and New Orleans starting quarterback Taysom Hill is not apologizing for taking advantage of the short-handed Broncos…

Cut 14 (12) “…get it” 

Hill only threw for 78 yards. But Payton says the game plan was to keep the ball on the ground…

Cut 15 (10)“…of that” 

Hill rushed for 44 yards and two touchdowns, while Latavius Murray led all rushers with 124 yards and two touchdowns. Denver completed just one pass and had 112 yards of offense.

_______________________

It was a rough night for LSU’s offense in 20-7 loss to Texas A-and-M on Saturday night. The Tigers rushed for just 36 yards and starting quarterback TJ Finley had another bad game on the road, throwing for 118 yards and two interceptions. Coach Ed Orgeron says the offensive line didn’t give Finley much help

Cut 16 (22) “..should of.”

After Finley threw a pick six, Max Johnson played a little better and threw for 113 yards and one touchdown. Orgeron said numerous times in the post-game that the Tigers need a better plan

cut 17 (17) “….better plan.”

LSU’s defense played well. They gave up a 52-yard touchdown run by Isaiah Spiller, but senior QB Kellen Mond was just 11-of-34 for 105 yards. Linebacker Micah Baskerville led the way with 12 tackles. He says the team plans to stick together

cut 18 (18) “…getting better”

________________________________________________

The 23rd ranked Ragin Cajuns won their fifth in a row as they beat ULM by 50. U-L Lafayette quarterback Levi Lewis accounted for five touchdowns in the 70-20 win. Coach Billy Napier says it was a good performance by the offense in their first game since November 14th…

cut 19 (21) “…Central Arkansas game”

Lewis threw for 147 yards and three touchdowns. Trey Ragas and Elijah Mitchell each rushed for over 90 yards and a touchdown. Freshman Kyren Lacy led the receivers with five catches for 48 yards and a touchdown. Napier’s offense produced 511 total yards…

cut 20 (20) “…in mind”

Tragedy in Delphi as a selfless healthcare worker dies in a house fire attempting to save her paraplegic patient. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “  I’m Matt Doyle”  

_______________________________________

Tomorrow is Small Business Saturday, and many are depending on your business more than ever. Jeff Palermo has more.

cut 2 (30) … I’m Jeff Palermo.”  

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While so many are working from home and more school-age students are back to virtual learning another problem 2020 presents is keeping packages a secret this holiday. Amazon spokesperson Alysa Bronikowski says they are offering a variety of ways to receive packages for the holidays.

Cut 3 (10)  “…Amazon hub”

Bronikowski says if you are having a gift sent directly to a friend or family member follow these steps when checking out online so the gift will remain a secret until they open it.

Cut 4 (12)   “…the package.”  

If you won’t be home to those to keep the gifts you’ve ordered a surprise from family members or you don’t have a secure location for packages to de dropped off, Bronikowski says Amazon also offers a pick-up option.

Cut 5  (12) “… up package.” 

If you have sneaky children or roommates, don’t worry about Alexa giving away a description on your order either, she’ll only give delivery notifications if you mark the order as a gift during the holidays.

_____________________________________________

A heroic home health worker dies in a Delphi home fire while trying to save her 71-year-old paraplegic patient.

Fire Marshal’s spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says as the house fire broke out 64-year-old Gwendolyn Theus attempted to wheel her patient out of the house. When that failed she dragged the patient out of bed and was trying to pass them through the window to the neighbors…

Cut 6 (10) “..that point.”

Firefighters arrived soon after, recovering the patient who was still alive. The patient is expected to make a full recovery.

Rodrigue says Theus put her patient’s life before her own when she could’ve saved herself.

Cut 7 (09) “..workers.”

The home did have functioning smoke detectors but the survivor indicated the fire spread rapidly after it began.

The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. Rodrigue says that’s largely because the home smoldered and burned for days after the incident.

Cut 8 (08) “..rubble.”

_______________________________________________________

It was ten years ago when American Express launched Small Business Saturday, a day to bring about awareness of the small mom and pop shops of Main Street. NFIB State Director Dawn Starns says they were asked to partner with the promotion and this year it’s more important than ever.

Cut 9 (12) “…a movement.”

With the pandemic, many small businesses have become inventive and added new ways for customers to shop, via online, thru Instagram and other social media outlets, and provide curbside service. Starns says many have had to think out outside the box in 2020.

Cut 10 (09) “….we were.”

Starns says many small businesses in the past two months report foot traffic back to almost pre-pandemic levels and are hopeful it continues despite Modified Phase Two adjustments reducing capacity. Starns says PPP loans have kept many small businesses afloat along, with determination.

Cut 11 (11) “…their dream.”

_____________________________________

The Saints are set to play Denver on Sunday, but the Broncos closed their practice facility today after one player and two staff members tested positive for COVID-19. As of now, the game is still set to be played. Coach Sean Payton says it’s businesses as usual for them…

Cut 12 (13) “..speed ahead” 

The Saints bring a seven-game winning streak to Denver and the defense is playing its best football of the season. Linebacker Kwon Alexander has been a nice addition. Payton says Alexander’s ability and personality allowed him to fit in well…

Cut 13 (11) “…any team”

Taysom Hill is also set to make his second straight start at quarterback. Offensive tackle Ryan Ramcyzk says Hill is doing a good job of leading the offense in Drew Brees’ absence…

Cut 14 (10) “..so far” 

Modified Phase Two restrictions are forcing many Louisiana couples to alter their wedding plans. Brooke Thorington gets advice from a local wedding planner

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________

The pandemic changes shopping trends for the fourth quarter, but will it help retailers end up in the black. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

__________________________________________

Louisiana Christmas tree farmers anticipate this could be their biggest year in more than a decade. Matt Doyle has the story…

Cut 3 (29)  “…Matt Doyle”  

__________________________________________

When Governor Edwards announced Modified Phase Two restrictions this week, gatherings were reduced from 150 to 75. Many couples had already chosen to delay their weddings to the end of the year while others postponed until 2021. New Orleans area wedding planner Samantha Capone says the new restrictions are forcing some couples to alter their plans again.

Cut 4 (12) “…adjust plans.”

While many couples had to shrink their guest list down to 150 already, the latest restrictions cut that in half and some couples are being forced to uninvite wedding guests. Capone says it’s awkward, but most guests are understanding.

Cut 5 (11) “…safety.”

Capone says some catering contracts will allow you to change your menu, for example, if you have a required minimum to be spent, you can add more types of food for the event, just alter the amount.

Another alternative for couples who must reduce the guest list is live-streaming their nuptials. Capone says many companies now offer this service and it helps when you’re forced to uninvite loved ones.

Cut 6 (11) “…different way.”

Capone says most wedding vendors have added verbiage to contracts as a result of the pandemic but advises reviewing them carefully before signing.

________________________

Holiday shopping presents a unique situation with the pandemic this year. LSU Marketing Professor Dan Rice says online sales increased 32 percent in the second quarter of 2020 whereas overall sales for all retail are down for the first few quarters of the year. Rice says it’s difficult to predict end of year sales.

Cut 7 (11)  “…their stores.”

Rice said a retail trend that has been spurred by the pandemic this year is starting Black Friday sales before Thanksgiving along with retailers hoping to get the most out of sales or better sales by being open fewer hours. For example, more stores were closed on Thanksgiving Day than before.

Cut 8 (12) “…before.”

While the National Retail Federation is cautiously optimistic for fourth-quarter sales, Rice believes retailers with a good online presence and stores like bicycle shops and DIY outlets that have seen an increase in business due in part to the pandemic will continue to do well.

Cut 9 (10) “…really knows.”

Rice says Small Business Saturday is this weekend where many local businesses offer incentives for shoppers.

_____________________________________________________

Louisiana has been approved for an additional 234 million dollars in BP Oil Spill funds that will be used to facilitate five different coastal projects.

Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority Deputy Director Greg Grandy says the Louisiana Trustee Implementation Group’s decision to release the money is fantastic news.

Cut 10 (12) “…Louisiana”

LA TIG has approved 900 million dollars for restoration projects in total for 2020.

Two of the biggest projects are the Plaquemines Parish Grand Chenier Marsh Creation Ridge, which will create over 600 acres of marsh, and the Terrebonne Basin Ridge and Marsh Creation Project…

Cut 11 (08) “..habitat”

The Grand Chenier and Terrebonne Basin projects will cost 65 and 157 million dollars respectively.

3.1 million dollars will go towards the Terrebonne Houma Navigation Channel Island Restoration. Grandy says it will provide a habitat for nesting birds that were impacted by the spill.

Cut 12 (02) “.birds”

The other project included is the Birds Foot Delta Hydrologic Restoration, a six million dollar dredging project.

_____________________________________________________

Christmas tree farmers are expecting a banner year as COVID has families desperate to bring a little holiday cheer to their homes.

Southern Christmas Tree Association head Kevin Steele Sr. says that expectation is based on early demand and he thinks this could be their best year since 2005.

Cut 13 (12) “…tree.”

Steele is confident the supply is there to meet the huge expected demand. He recommends going with the iconic Leyland cypress.

Cut 14 (09) “…growers” 

Up north of the Mason-Dixon Steele says growers are facing Christmas tree shortages due to a decision to reduce supply during the economic downturn a few years ago. That shouldn’t be an issue in the warmer, wetter south, however.

Steele asks you to check out your local Christmas tree farm instead of going with plastic from a big-box retailer.

Cut 15 (10)“…this year” 

Steele also owns and operates Steele Christmas Tree Farm in Angie.

_______________________

The LSU Tigers look to pull off the upset on Saturday when they visit 5th ranked Texas A-and-M. The Aggies rank number one in the SEC in total defense and second in rushing defense, holding opponents to 96 yards on the ground. LSU Center Liam Shanahan says they ran the ball well last week at Arkansas and they want to establish the rushing attack tomorrow…

Cut 16 (16) “..this Saturday.”

The Aggies are 5-1 and they rank second in the SEC in rushing the football as Isaiah Spiller is averaging over 100 yards a game. A&M Coach Jimbo Fisher says the run game has been a key to their offensive success..

cut 17 (17) “….good to have.”

_________________________________________________

The 23rd ranked Ragin Cajuns head to Monroe to face the winless ULM Warhawks. Louisiana-Monroe is 0-8 and they’ve yet to hold a lead in any of their games. Cajuns offensive tackle Max Mitchell on trying to avoid the upset…

cut 18 (18) “…rivalry game.”

ULM has made a change in quarterback as Jeremy Hunt has taken over for Colby Suits who has entered the NCAA transfer portal. Cajuns safety Kam Pedescleaux says they’ll be ready for Hunt, even though they don’t have much tape on him….

cut 19 (16) “…we’ll be ready”

______________________________________________________

The Saints will visit the Denver Broncos on Sunday as they look for their eighth straight win. Playing in Denver means playing at a higher altitude, but Coach Sean Payton says leaving early would not help them…

cut 20 (20) “…rather than Friday”

New coronavirus restrictions go into effect as the state moves into a modified Phase two. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “  I’m Jeff Palermo”  

_______________________________________

Modified Phase Two restrictions mean restaurants must reduce capacity from 75 to 50 percent. What does this mean for the already struggling industry???

cut 2 (31) … I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

_____________________________

Tougher coronavirus restrictions go into effect today as the state is seeing a third surge of COVID-19 cases. The modified Phase Two will result in bars closing, fewer people inside restaurants and gyms, and new limits on the size of gatherings. Assistant State Health Officer Doctor Joseph Kanter says they are once again concerned about capacity at hospitals…

Cut 3 (12)  “…opened up”

Kanter says COVID hospitalizations have doubled since early October. He says the new restrictions are not just because we are entering the holiday season…

Cut 4 (09)   “…take some action”  

Governor Edwards says his latest public health emergency order will remain in effect through December 23rd and he does not expect restrictions to loosen in time for Christmas, based on the reports he’s receiving from health experts…

Cut 5  (07) “..around the country” 

_____________________________________________

Former LSU football player and Baton Rouge staple Ruffin Rodrigue has passed away.  Rodrigue played offensive line for the Tigers from 1986-89, earning All-SEC honors in 1988.  LSU coach Ed Orgeron remembers Rodrigue’s time in the purple and gold.

Cut 6 (10) “…we’re all crushed.”

Rodrigue also owned Ruffino’s Restaurant in Baton Rouge and Lafayette, which is a hotspot for locals.  Orgeron had a friendship with Rodrigue, as they both grew up in the same area.

Cut 7 (09) “..supported LSU.”

_______________________________________________________

Modified Phase Two restrictions that go into effect today means restaurants will once again have to make major adjustments and just as we approach the holiday season. President of Louisiana Restaurant Association, Stan Harris, predicts 20 to 30 percent of restaurants in the state will close permanently as a result.

Cut 8 (12) “..financial peril.”

Restaurants must reduce maximum capacity from 75 to 50-percent and the new order essentially closes most bars across the state.

Harris says the struggling industry wants the Louisiana Department of Health to show them actual data indicating a direct connection of restaurants and bars spreading the virus. Harris says LDH contract tracing data shows industrial settings topping the list and feels the restaurant industry is being unfairly targeted.

Cut 9 (10) “…Tiger Stadium.”

Harris says the type of restaurants that are impacted the most are sit-down venues as opposed to fast-food restaurants and he feels the outlook on receiving any aid is bleak.

Cut 10 (10) “….right now.”

_____________________________________

An effort to deliver turkeys to residents in the beleaguered City of Lake Charles is a big success, with the “Mayor’s Turkey Challenge” bringing over 2,000 birds to needy residents.

Mayor Nic Hunter says after the town got smashed by Hurricanes Laura and Delta they found a lot of folks in need of help for Thanksgiving. They set a modest goal, and blew right past it…

Cut 11 (12) “….**laugh**”

The drive saw people donate money to the United Way of Southwest Louisiana to help buy the birds. Hunter says one out of state business in particular made a big impact.

Cut 12 (11) “..succsess” 

Hunter says the United Way determined who was most in need and made sure they had their turkeys in time to start defrosting them ahead of tomorrow’s festivities.

Cut 13 (06) “…in need”

Senator Bill Cassidy tweets “I voted for President Trump, but Joe Biden won. The transition should begin for the sake of the country.” Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “  I’m Matt Doyle”  

_______________________________________

Many are trying to get a rapid COVID test before Thanksgiving dinner and forgo advice from health officials to not gather outside their immediate household. Brooke Thorington has more

cut 2 (29) … I’m Brooke Thorington.”  

_____________________________

It’s the time of year when many are traveling over the river and thru the woods to gather for Thanksgiving, and those traveling via automobile are seeing the lowest gas prices in five years. AAA spokesperson Don Redman says the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Louisiana is $1.84 at the pump.

Cut 3 (07)  “…by vehicle.”

Redman says it’s all about demand, which is much less than in years past for Thanksgiving, due to the pandemic and fledgling economy.

Cut 4 (10)   “…pretty low.”  

Redman expects gas prices to keep dropping, as prices in December in January tend to be the best for gas. As for next spring, when demand typically increases, predicting prices at the pump are questionable.

Cut 5  (12) “…get to it” 

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Senator Bill Cassidy becomes the first member of the Louisiana Republican Congressional Delegation to publicly acknowledge President-elect Joe Biden’s win.

Cassidy tweeted “I voted for President Trump, but Joe Biden won. The transition should begin for the sake of the country.” ULM Poli Sci Professor Joshua Stockley says Cassidy has always been pragmatic.

Cut 6 (09) “…pragmatism.”

Cassidy also tweeted that the Trump campaign has not presented the kind of evidence of mass voter fraud needed to change the results of the election.

Stockley says there’s little political downside to conceding at this point.

Cut 7 (09) “..legitimately.”

Cassidy strolled to reelection for another six-year term on November 3^rd, winning 59 percent of the vote.

Stockley says as more states certify their results and Biden’s electoral vote lead grows it’s only a manner of days, or at most weeks before most of the rest of the delegation joins Cassidy.

Cut 8 (11) “..same.”

Biden appears set for 306 electoral votes, and a popular vote lead somewhere north of four percent.

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As Thanksgiving approaches many are attempting to get tested in advance for COVID so they can enjoy a traditional holiday gathering, however, Assistant State Health Officer Dr. Joe Kanter says nothing is foolproof when it comes to the coronavirus.

Cut 9 (12) “…still risk”

Kanter says while there are several types of rapid tests available for COVID, even in one of the most secure places in the US with access to the most significant testing, the virus is still able to spread.

Cut 10 (09) “….on testing.”

Dr. Kanter believes the best thing for Thanksgiving is to celebrate with immediate household only and he’s following his own advice.

Cut 11 (13) “….next year.”

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Governor Edwards says due to the state’s surging COVID case numbers we will be moving back to a “modified” Phase Two.

Edwards says the new restrictions are very similar to what we had for most of the summer.

Cut 12 (11) “..maximum” 

A maximum of 75 people will be allowed at indoor events, with a maximum of 150 people allowed at outdoor events.

Bars will be banned from operating in any parish with a greater than five percent positivity rate, down from the current ten percent limit. Edwards also says stadium capacity will be coming down…

Cut 13 (07) “…required”

Stadiums in some parishes had been allowed to increase their capacity up to 50 percent. This change particularly impacts high school football playoff games set to begin Friday.

The order takes effect Wednesday and will last until at least December 23^rd, but Edwards warns he’s likely to extend the order through the end of the year.

Cut 14 (13) “..before us” 

School restrictions will remain unchanged, and any new restrictions will be left up to the local districts.

Some school system leaders are frustrated with the state’s policy of quarantining any student who has “close contact” with a confirmed COVID case for two weeks. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (28) “…I’m Matt Doyle.”

________________________________

The governor along with healthcare providers are asking you to not gather around the table with Thanksgiving unless it’s only with immediate household members. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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A New Orleans super krewe invents a virtual way to let the good times in 2021, Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington”  

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Some school system leaders say the state’s policy of 14-day quarantines for students who had “close contact” with someone who tested positive for COVID goes too far. Rapides Parish Superintendent Jeff Powell told a House committee they’ve had 227 students test positive out of 22,000l, but those cases have resulted in 4,000 students quarantined.

Cut 4 (11) “…home.”

“Close contact” is defined by 15 minutes of exposure at less than six feet of distance from a confirmed positive case. Mask usage is not considered under this policy.

Powell says they’ve had five percent of their staff test positive, but due to current rules, every one of those 102 positive cases has resulted in an average of 40 students and staff quarantined.

Cut 5 (09) “…postive.”

The superintendents of West Baton Rouge, Ascension, and Livingston school systems also spoke against the policy.

Bossier City Representative Raymond Crews says the over-zealous policy is detrimental to a student’s long-term education and social health.

Cut 6 (09) “…school”

A Louisiana Department of Health statement says LDH is not recommending any changes to policy, particularly when the state is seeing a third surge in cases.

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The governor along with health care providers are pleading with residents to hold Thanksgiving gatherings with immediate household members only, otherwise, they fear a post-holiday spike as the state is already seeing increased hospitalizations due to COVID outbreaks. Our Lady of the Lake Pulmonologist Dr. Abdulla Moosa…

Cut 7 (11)  “…to spikes.”

Thanksgiving is traditionally is one of the largest travel periods in the US when families gather around the table, however, this year the gathering increases the chances of spreading COVID to family members, and it could be fatal for those that are vulnerable. In addition to post-holiday spikes, Dr. Moosa says in-home gatherings are also responsible.

Cut 8 (10) “…people’s houses.”

Dr. Moosa says while it’s hard to envision yet another holiday out of the norm, it’s critical that we all work together and abide by mitigation efforts until the population is vaccinated.

Cut 9 (11) “…community effort.”

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Baker native and LSU grad Linda Thomas-Greenfield has been tapped to be President-elect Joe Biden’s Ambassador to the United Nations, pending Senate approval next year.

The 35-year veteran diplomat, who is black, was born in Baker in 1952. Famed Democratic political consultant James Carville, a fellow LSU alumnus, celebrates the announcement.

Cut 10 (12) “…accountable”

In an interview from 2019, Thomas-Greenfield said when she was a child it was common for the KKK to burn crosses in the yards of local Black families.

Carville says it’s a moment that should make every LSU grad proud, and gives LSU students a fantastic role model.

Cut 11 (09) “…accountable.”

Thomas-Greenfield graduated from LSU with a bachelor’s in Political Science in 1974.

Thomas-Greenfield joins Congressman Cedric Richmond in the Biden Administration. Carville says she joins the long list of Louisiana political luminaries…

Cut 12 (12) “…our programs.”

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The Krewe of Bacchus will roll virtually in 2021 and fans of the big New Orleans parade will be able to follow along on February 14th on an app that will also allow them to catch throws. Bacchus captain Clark Brennan on how the free smartphone app will entertain revelers

Cut 13 (09) “…silver doubloons.”

Brennan says after you catch throws virtually, you’ll collect your stash in person, even utilize curbside pick-up.

Cut 14 (09) “…the den.” 

The app, which was conceived by a Bacchus member and developed by another, will allow users to even trade virtual throws each Sunday during Carnival season and then on February 14^th, Bacchus goes virtual with their parade. Brennan explains what to expect.

Cut 15 (12)“…playing music.” 

The “Throw Me Something Bacchus!” mobile smartphone app will be available on Jan. 6th.

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Saints Coach Sean Payton would not say whether Taysom Hill will start at quarterback this Sunday when New Orleans travels to Denver. Payton says Hill played well and was complimented by good play from his teammates…

Cut 16 (22) “…football team.”

A lot of football analysts thought Payton was making a mistake by starting Hill over Jameis Winston as Hill was making his first NFL start at QB, while Winston has started 20 games. Payton on why he thinks there was so much negative reaction after it got out that Hill would start

cut 17 (30) “….what it is.”

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After getting a much-needed win against Arkansas last weekend, LSU is now preparing for fifth-ranked Texas A-and-M, who they play this Saturday in College Station. Quarterback Kellen Mond has led the Aggies to a five and one record. Coach Ed Orgeron says their goal is to get pressure on Mond…

cut 18 (14) “…contain him.”

Despite the win over the Hogs, LSU’s much-maligned defense still allowed 13 yards per pass play. Orgeron says they have to limit the large chunk plays…

cut 19 (13) “…knows that.”

Orgeron says Texas A-and-M has a great running attack

cut 20 (26) “…this year.”